Karen Oliver

A New Website!

2008-03-04T11:48:00.002+10:30

You're probably all wondering why I haven't updated lately, well, I've been working on a surprise!

I have a proper website, an honest to goodness proper website. As of today, this blog won't be updated, although I'll keep it around for a while for nostaglia reasons lol.

Here's the address for my new site. www.kareninks.com
so please pop on over, update your bookmark, and leave a comment in the guest book and tell me what you think, I'd love to hear from you.

Cheers,
Karen

Pretty Paper

2008-02-25T20:59:00.005+10:30

Ok, 2 more cards from the Week 3 challenge on another forum that I'm on. This one is from a sketch from Pagemaps.com now I couldn't decide which paper to use, so I made both. I also got a new toy today that I've been playing with. A light cube to photograph my cards. So much fun, but you'll have to bare with me for a while until I get the lighting correct.
Hope you like them

All material used are Stampin' Up!
Stamp Set - It's Your Birthday
Cardstock - Chocolate Chip, Tempting Turquoise
Inkpads - Chocolate Chip, Whisper White
Paper - Au Chocolat, Love Me
Accessories - Heidi Swap Flower, Mat Pack, Old Olive Brad.

2008 Stampin' Up Retired List

2008-02-22T22:03:00.002+10:30

It's that time of the year again, time to make way for the old and bring in the new. In preparation for the new 2008/2009 Idea Book and Catalgoue, Stampin' Up! have now released the retired list for the products that will not be moving into the new catalgoue. Some things are selling fast, so if there's anything that you would really like, get in quick, it is on a while stocks last basis.

And as a special bonus I'm also offering 10% off all stamps and wheels on the retired list. And don't forget if you place an order for over $100 you'll be eligible for a free SaleABration set as well!

Items in Red have already sold out. Email me today at karen@oliver.net to place your order.

Item #	Product Description
Catalogue Sets
108715	A LITTLE LOVE
108717	A NEW LITTLE SOMEONE
108718	A TO Z ACCENTS
108723	ALL IN A ROW
108724	ALL MIXED UP
108725	ALL NATURAL
108727	ALL THE BEST
108729	ALL WRAPPED UP
108730	ALL WRAPPED UP ACCESSORIES
108731	ALL-YEAR CHEER I
108732	ALL-YEAR CHEER II
108737	ALPHADOT NUMBERS
108735	ALPHADOTS
108736	ANCIENT ASIA
108739	ARTIFACTS
108741	BABY FIRSTS
108745	BECAUSE OF YOU
108749	BEST OF CLUCK
108750	BEYOND THE BASICS
108752	BIRTHDAY BEAUTY
108759	BUGGIES & BOOTIES
108762	BY DEFINITION
108766	CHEESECLOTH
109073	CLASSIC ALPHABET
109074	CLASSIC NUMBERS
108770	COLLAGE ALPHABET
108771	COLLAGE NUMBERS
108773	CROSSHATCH
108775	CUTE AS A BUG
108776	DAY-TO-DAY FLEXIBLE PHRASES
108777	DO THE HULA
108778	DOTTED
108779	DOWN TO BUSINESS
108780	DREAM COME TRUE
108782	ECLECTIC BACKGROUNDS
108783	EPHEMERA
108784	ESPRESSOLY FOR YOU
108788	FARM FEVER
108789	FAVORITE TEDDY BEAR
108808	FINIALS & FRAMES
108810	FLANNEL PLAID
108812	FLOWER FEST
108813	FLOWER FILLED
108815	FONTASTIC
108816	FRENCH SCRIPT
108817	FRESH FILLERS
108818	FRIENDSHIP FLOWERS
108819	FUN FILLED
108821	GIFTS OF JOY
108823	GLAD TIDINGS
108824	GLAM GIRL
108826	GOOD THINGS GROW
108827	GORGEOUS GRAPEVINE
108829	HANDLE WITH CARE
108830	HAPPILY EVER AFTER
108832	HAPPY HEARTS
108833	HEADLINE ALPHABET
108834	HEADLINE NUMBERS
108836	HEBREW HOLIDAYS
108837	HOLIDAY PRINT
108838	HOLIDAY SPIRIT
108843	I DID IT
108845	IN FULL BLOOM
108846	IN THE WILD
108848	IT'S SNOW TIME
108851	KANJI
108852	LABEL CLASSICS
108853	LETTERPRESS ALPHABET
108854	LETTERPRESS NUMBERS
108856	LIFE'S SPECIAL MOMENTS
108858	LITTLE HELLOS
108859	LITTLE HOLIDAY WISHES
108861	LIVELY LEAVES
108867	LOVING HEARTS
108868	MADONNA AND CHILD
108870	MERRY MINIS
108871	MIXED BOUQUET
108872	MON AMI
108873	MONKEY BUSINESS
108876	MUCH LOVE
108878	NEVER-ENDING JOY
108879	NEWSPRINT ALPHABET
108880	NEWSPRINT NUMBERS
108881	NICE & EASY NOTES
108882	NICE & NARROW
108883	OLIVE YOU
108885	ON WALKABOUT
108886	OPEN FOR TRADE
108889	PERENNIAL FAVORITES
108891	PETAL PUSHERS
108892	PLAY BALL
108893	POCKET FUN
108895	PRINT PATTERN
108896	PURE & SIMPLE ALPHABET LOWER
108897	PURE & SIMPLE ALPHABET UPPER
108898	PURE & SIMPLE NUMBERS
108899	QUICK THINKING
108901	RENAISSANCE ANGELS
108903	ROSES IN WINTER
108907	SEASIDE SKETCHES
108908	SEASON BY SEASON
108910	SET SAIL
108911	SIMPLE SAYINGS II
108912	SIMPLE SKETCHES
108914	SIMPLY CIRCLES
108917	SLEIGH FULL OF TOYS
109072	STAMPED FROM THE HEART
108922	STIPPLE CELEBRATIONS
109022	STIPPLE SHELLS
108925	SUPERSIZE SYMBOLS
108926	SWEET & SASSY
108928	SWEET TALK
108933	TERRIFIC TULIPS
108935	TIDY ALPHABET
108936	TIDY NUMBERS
108938	TRADING COLLECTION
108939	TREAT YOURSELF
108940	TRIMTASTIC
108941	TYPESET ALPHABET LOWER
108942	TYPESET ALPHABET UPPER
108943	TYPESET NUMBERS
108947	WATERCOLOR MINIS
108952	WELL-WORN ALPHABET
108953	WELL-WORN NUMBERS
108955	WHIMSICAL ALPHABET LOWER
108956	WHIMSICAL ALPHABET UPPER
108957	WHIMSICAL NUMBERS
108959	WILD HEARTS
108961	WINGED THINGS
108964	WONDERFUL WORDS II
108965	WORD BY WORD
108966	WORLD TOUR
108968	YULE BITS & BORDERS
Hostess Sets
108714	A IS FOR ADORABLE
108743	BASKET FULL OF FUN
108754	BLOOMING WITH HAPPINESS
108758	BOTH WAY BLOSSOMS
108814	FLOWERS FOR A FRIEND
108844	IN ANY EVENT
108865	LOVE IT
108900	REASON TO SMILE
108902	RIVETING
108919	SPRINGTIME STEMS
108932	TERRIFIC TAGS
108946	WARMEST REGARDS
Stampin' Around Wheels
101420	BABY TIME
104070	BLOOMIN'
105951	BOLD SNOWFLAKES*
105750	BOUQUET*
106749	BRIGHT BULBS
105518	BUILDER BITS
107481	BUTTERFLIES & BLOSSOMS
103094	BY THE SEA
103296	CANDY CANE CHRISTMAS
104312	HOT TO DOT
107463	LEAF FEST*
106062	LEAVES AWASH*
102254	LOVE SWIRLS
103543	ONLY ORNAMENTS
101090	PAW TRACKS
107476	ROUGH AROUND THE EDGES*
105448	SIZE IT UP
104160	SQUARE PEGS*
107480	TRUE HEARTS
104893	TWINKLE
103749	WASH DAY*
105033	WINGS & THINGS

* Stampin' Around Jumbo wheels

Item #	Product Description
105094	BOXES & TAGS BOOK KIT ACCORDION ASST 4
105093	BOXES & TAGS BOOK KIT ACCORDION ASST 5
105092	BOXES & TAGS BOOK KIT ACCORDION ASST 6
105091	BOXES & TAGS BOOK KIT ACCORDION ASST 7
105101	BOXES & TAGS BOOK KIT SADDLE STITCH ASST 4
105100	BOXES & TAGS BOOK KIT SADDLE STITCH ASST 5
105099	BOXES & TAGS BOOK KIT SADDLE STITCH ASST 6
105098	BOXES & TAGS BOOK KIT SADDLE STITCH ASST 7
106581	BOXES & TAGS PETAL CARD BOLD BRIGHTS & EARTH ELEMENTS
105074	BOXES & TAGS PETAL CARD WHISPER WHITE & VERY VANILLA
105067	BOXES & TAGS POCKETS & PIECES ASST I
105068	BOXES & TAGS POCKETS & PIECES ASST II
108632	BOXES & TAGS TINY TAKEOUT BOLD BRIGHTS & EARTH ELEMENTS
107245	BOXES & TAGS TINY TAKEOUT CONFETTI WHITE & KRAFT
104583	BRADS VINTAGE
108624	CARD STOCK BUCKAROO BLUE A4
108625	CARD STOCK COOL CARIBBEAN A4
108628	CARD STOCK CRANBERRY CRISP
106562	CARD STOCK GOING GRAY A4
106683	CARD STOCK IN COLOR 12X12
108629	CARD STOCK IN COLOR A4
108627	CARD STOCK MARIGOLD MORNING A4
106531	CARD STOCK SAHARA SAND 12X12
108626	CARD STOCK TRUE THYME A4
108623	CARD STOCK VINTAGE VIOLET A4
107231	CLASSIC STAMPIN' INK REFILL BUCKAROO BLUE
107228	CLASSIC STAMPIN' INK REFILL CRANBERRY CRISP
107230	CLASSIC STAMPIN' INK REFILL COOL CARIBBEAN
107227	CLASSIC STAMPIN' INK REFILL MARIGOLD MORNING
107229	CLASSIC STAMPIN' INK REFILL TRUE THYME
107232	CLASSIC STAMPIN' INK REFILL VINTAGE VIOLET
107225	CLASSIC STAMPIN' PAD BUCKAROO BLUE
107222	CLASSIC STAMPIN' PAD CRANBERRY CRISP
107224	CLASSIC STAMPIN' PAD COOL CARIBBEAN
107221	CLASSIC STAMPIN' PAD MARIGOLD MORNING
107223	CLASSIC STAMPIN' PAD TRUE THYME
107226	CLASSIC STAMPIN' PAD VINTAGE VIOLET
104302	CORD COPPER
104303	CORD GOLD
104304	CORD SILVER
104328	CRAFT STAMPIN' INK REFILL VERY VANILLA
104308	CRAFT STAMPIN' PAD VERY VANILLA
107405	DESIGNER SERIES FOUR SEASONS
105366	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER CAMBRIDGE 12X12
105365	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER OXFORD
104136	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER POOL PARTY
107295	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER RECOLLECTIONS
107062	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER SARAH
107308	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER SENTIMENTAL JOURNEY
104135	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER SLUMBER PARTY
107406	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER TREEHOUSE
103280	EMBOSSING KIT
104281	ENCORE INK REFILL COPPER
104280	ENCORE PAD COPPER
105317	EYELETS BOLD BRIGHTS II
105315	EYELETS SOFT SUBTLES II
100395	FANCY FIBERS BRIGHTS
100396	FANCY FIBERS EARTHS
100397	FANCY FIBERS NEUTRALS
100393	FANCY FIBERS REGALS
100394	FANCY FIBERS SUBTLES
103321	GIFT SACKS OATMEAL
103890	METAL EDGE TAGS BRASS WHITE CIRCLE
103888	METAL EDGE TAGS BRASS WHITE SQUARE
103894	METAL EDGE TAGS COPPER WHITE CIRCLE
103892	METAL EDGE TAGS COPPER WHITE SQUARE
104184	POST EXTENDERS
103378	PUNCH CORNER ROUNDER SMALL
102686	PUNCH HANDHELD RECTANGLE
104407	PUNCH NOTCHED CORNER
104406	PUNCH PAPER PIECING
104405	PUNCH SQUARE CONVEX
101637	RIBBON GROSGRAIN 1/4" APPLE GREEN
102712	RIBBON GROSGRAIN 1/4" BLACK
100538	RIBBON GROSGRAIN 1/4" BLUEBIRD
105372	RIBBON GROSGRAIN 1/4" BURGUNDY
105373	RIBBON GROSGRAIN 1/4" CELERY
105374	RIBBON GROSGRAIN 1/4" CHOCOLATE
100455	RIBBON GROSGRAIN 1/4" CREAM
101666	RIBBON GROSGRAIN 1/4" LIGHT ORCHID
101926	RIBBON GROSGRAIN 1/4" LIGHT PINK
105378	RIBBON GROSGRAIN 1/4" NAVY
102682	RIBBON GROSGRAIN 1/4" RED
103064	RIBBON GROSGRAIN 1/4" TANGERINE
101156	RIBBON GROSGRAIN 1/4" TAUPE
102119	RIBBON GROSGRAIN 1/4" TURQUOISE
102819	RIBBON GROSGRAIN 1/4" WHITE
104257	RIBBON ORGANDY NARROW GOLD
100589	RIBBON ORGANDY NARROW IVORY
103019	RIBBON ORGANDY NARROW LIGHT PINK
104256	RIBBON ORGANDY NARROW NAVY
104258	RIBBON ORGANDY NARROW OLIVE
104253	RIBBON ORGANDY NARROW SILVER
101613	RIBBON ORGANDY NARROW WHITE
104260	RIBBON ORGANDY NARROW WINE
106807	RIBBON ORIGINALS PREP SCHOOL
106809	RIBBON ORIGINALS RUSTIC RETREAT
106806	RIBBON ORIGINALS SEASIDE
106808	RIBBON ORIGINALS SWEET SHOP
107453	SIMPLY SCRAPPIN' ALL THE TRIMMINGS
107456	SIMPLY SCRAPPIN' AT HOME
107454	SIMPLY SCRAPPIN' OUT & ABOUT
107457	SIMPLY SCRAPPIN' PARTY PIECES
107455	SIMPLY SCRAPPIN' TICKETS & TOKENS
107460	SIMPLY SCRAPPIN' TODAY & ALWAYS
108509	SIMPLY SENT A WISH FOR YOU
108511	SIMPLY SENT FRIENDSHIP SHAPES
108512	SIMPLY SENT GOOD THINGS
108510	SIMPLY SENT REMEMBERING YOU
105580	SPECTRUM PAD BLUE FROST
101492	SPECTRUM PAD CELEBRATION
105579	SPECTRUM PAD COTTON CANDY
101336	SPECTRUM PAD PUMPKIN PATCH
103953	STAMP-A-MA-JIG IMAGING SHEETS
101460	STAMPIN' AROUND CARTRIDGE & REFILL WHISPER WHITE
103017	STAMPIN' AROUND INK REFILL WHISPER WHITE
101040	STAMPIN' EMBOSS POWDER BLACK DETAIL
100442	STAMPIN' EMBOSS POWDER CLASSY COPPER
101428	STAMPIN' EMBOSS POWDER CLEAR DETAIL
103342	STAMPIN' EMBOSS POWDER GOLD DETAIL
101781	STAMPIN' EMBOSS POWDER SILVER DETAIL
100963	STAMPIN' EMBOSS POWDER WHITE DETAIL
103174	STAMPIN' PASTELS APPLICATOR REFILL
105543	STAMPIN' PASTELS BOLD BRIGHTS
105544	STAMPIN' PASTELS EARTH ELEMENTS
105547	STAMPIN' PASTELS NEUTRALS
105545	STAMPIN' PASTELS RICH REGALS
105546	STAMPIN' PASTELS SOFT SUBTLES
103648	STAMPIN' STACK
107239	TAG SHEETS CONFETTI WHITE & VERY VANILLA
107240	TAG SHEETS KRAFT
105369	TIMEWORN COLLECTION PAPER HEIRLOOM
105368	TIMEWORN COLLECTION PAPER RUSTIC
105367	TIMEWORN COLLECTION PAPER WEATHERED
105395	WIRE WORKS METALLICS
105812	WRITE ME A MEMORY FONT CD VOL I

And again with the Bud Basics

2008-02-18T10:49:00.004+10:30

I know you're all probably really over this set, but I like it so :-P

2 cards I made up this morning. I've used the Faux Tile technique that was in a recent edition of Stampin Success. Very cool technique, easy to do and very effective.

All material used is Stampin' Up!
Stamp Sets - Bud Basics, It's Your Birthday
Cardstock - Certainly Celery, Regal Rose, Barely Banana, Whisper White
Inks - Regal Rose, Certainly Celery, Apricot Appeal, Barely Banana, Versamark
Accessories - Wide Chocolate Grosgrain, Prima Flowers (non SU), Clear Embossing Powder

Spinner Card

2008-02-13T13:46:00.002+10:30

It's been a very long time since I've made a spinner card, and I was feeling inspired today. So while watching Tomb Raider on the laptop....mmmm Daniel Craig....sorry, where was I?? I created this.
The more I use this set, the more I like it. If you haven't seen this set before, it was our gift from the company, for us Aussies it will be in the next Idea Book and Catalogue as a Level 3 hostess set. The new Catalogue is out on the 1st April, if you'd like to put your name down for one, please email me and I'll add your name to the list. And don't forget you get a free catty if you host a workshop!

Materials Used.
Stamp Set - Time Well Spent
Ink - Perfect Plum, Jet Black StazOn
Cardstock - Pale Plum, Perfect Plum, Very Vanilla
Accessories - Watercolour Wonder Crayons in Soft Subtle, Stampin Dimensionals, 1/2 inch circle punch.

My Updated Slide Show

2008-02-11T22:46:00.001+10:30

Forgive me, I'm just playing around with slideshow and blogger. Lot's of fun, but here's an update of all the cards I've done lately. lol.

Another Challenge

2008-02-11T11:06:00.000+10:30

This card is for a challenge over at essentailbaby.com.au (an Australian mother and baby site). A cardmaking challenge has been set up, basically a sketch a week, this week's sketch was by Becky Fleck. A lovely card sketch that I really enjoyed doing. Although I'm not too sure how happy I am with the card, I might have to give it another go this afternoon with some bright and beautiful colours.

All materials used are Stampin' Up!
Stamp Sets - Wild Rose, Warm Words
Cardstock - Cranberry Crisp, Basic Black, Mellow Moss, Recollections Designer Paper
Inks - Mellow Moss, True Thyme, Cranberry Crisp, Bravo Burgundy

Beyond The Page

2008-02-07T15:04:00.000+10:30

I saw this cute kit in a local store and thought, heck I can do something with that. And this is what I came up with. I'm quite pleased for a first attempt. I've learnt a few things I'll do differently next time, but all up it was fun to do. Especially with a sick child at home and nothing but rain here today. It kept me occupied. The reddish coloured squares aren't actually on the piece, they're just because with the photos I used I'm not comfortable posting their images without permission, I'm sure you understand.

Stamp Set - Friendship Blooms
Inks - Chocolate Chip, Very Vanilla, Whisper White
Cardstock - Very Vanilla, Chocolate Chip, Au Chocolat Designer Paper
Accessories - Kaisercraft Frame Clock.

Valentine

2008-02-06T10:20:00.000+10:30

Well with just over a week to go until Valentines Day, I was inspired to make a card. For some reason I really like red and black together as a Valentine Card. Of course, I had to emboss somewhere on the card as well. Hope you like it.

All material used are Stampin' Up!
Stamp Set - Dreams Come True, French Script
Inks - Gold Encore, Real Red
Cardstock - Real Red, Basic Black, Very Vanilla

Merci

2008-02-01T13:41:00.000+10:30

With both children now in school, I seem to have plenty of time to play around with my sets. I received this one today and couldn't wait to play with it. It's another one of the Sale-A-Bration sets called Merci. Very pretty. If you didn't already know, the Sale-A-Bration sets are actually die cut. So you don't need to trim your rubber sheets before mounting them. This also gives you a stencil for each stamp.

That's how I created the background for the main image. I stamped the image in Stazon, placed the stencil over the top, and using a drop of Certainly Celery reinker on a plastic sheet and a stiff brush I dabbed inside the stencil. I then came along with a very fine brush and the Ballet Blue reinker and highlighted some of the image. A very simple technique, but very effective.

All material used is Stampin' Up!
Stamp Sets - Merci
Cardstock - Broacade Blue, Certainly Celery, Basic Black, Whisper White.
Inks - Jet Black StazOn, Ballet Blue reinker, Certainly Celery Reinker, Bashful Blue
Accessories - Wide Chocolate Grosgrain.

Wet Paper Watercolouring.....Kind of.

2008-01-30T13:48:00.000+10:30

Is anyone counting how many days I've posted this week??

This is the 3rd challenge from Saturday night's Cyberstamp, now amazingly enough, I've completed all 3 challenges, it took a few days but I did do it. The 3rd challenge was inspired by this wonderful tutorial on Splitcoaststampers.com Wet Paper Watercolouring . I couldn't find my spritz bottle anywhere so had to make do with a cotton wipe and bottle of water.

I also set myself a 2nd challenge. To not use an inkpad anywhere on my card.

Here's how I did it.

1. Coloured my stamp in with markers.
2. Lightly soaked a cotton wipe with water, dabbed over section of paper I wished to stamp on.
3. Huffed on stamp, stamped image.
4. Repeated for the other 2 images.

To create the mottled background is easy, just.

With damp paper from stamping above.
1. Take a dry cotton wipe, using the brush end of the marker allow some ink to soak into the wipe. Add some water, squeeze together to soak ink in.
2. Lightly dab over paper. Repeat with a couple of different colours.

The of course I needed to add a sentiment. So using the marker again, I highlighted the words Cheers To You, from the Lot's of Thoughts set.

It's so much fun to do! Try it, you'll be amazed at the results you can get.

All materials used are Stampin' Up!
Stamp Sets - Both Way Blossoms, Lot's of Thoughts
Cardstock - Brocade Blue, Basic Black, Very Vanilla
Accessories - Rich Regal Markers.

Colour and CASE Challenge

2008-01-28T17:41:00.000+10:30

Well, this is the second challenge from the Cyberstamp on Saturday night on the Elite Stampers Messageboard. For this one you needed to pick a colour scheme from page 16 of the Technique Booklet, I chose Old Olive, More Mustard, Close to Cocoa and Not Quite Navy. Then you needed to use the design of either of the cards on page 8. You also could only use a Sale A Bration set or a Summer Mini set. Of course I used Bud Basics, because I adore that set. Hope you like it.

All material used is Stampin' Up!
Stamp Set - Bud Basic, Basic Outline Jumbo Wheel
Inks - Old Olive, Not Quite Navy
Cardstock - Old Olive, More Mustard, Very Vanilla
Accessories - Stampin Pastels.

Friendship Blooms

2008-01-27T18:20:00.001+10:30

Well how's this? Posting for the 2nd day in a row, that's certainly a rarity for me. This is one of the cyberchallenges that my upline Jayne Mercer posted last night on the Elite Stampers message board. It was inspired by a lovely picture of a bedroom with pink, red and white colours, gingham and hearts. I didn't quite get the hearts but I love this card anyway.

I'm going to try and complete the other 2 challenges tomorrow, so with any luck I'll be posting 3 days in a row, yay!

One other thing I wanted to show was the bling brads, I'm sure I've shown these before, but this is a little trick we learnt at Regionals in November. Just take your brad, pop a mini glue dot on the end and dip it in the Dazzling Diamonds. Very nice.

All material used is Stampin' Up!
Stamp Sets - Big Deal Alphabet, Friendship Blooms
Cardstock - Whisper White, Regal Rose
Ink - Regal Rose
Accessories - Silver Brads, Mini Glue Dots, Dazzling Diamonds.

Sale A Brations Sets

2008-01-26T11:56:00.000+10:30

I finally got a chance yesterday to sit down and play with some of the new Sale-A-Bration sets. I love them. I'm going to try and have another play today. Although the kids are bugging me to go for a swim again this afternoon, oh what a hard life I'm leading at the moment lol. I hope you like this card, I was very pleased with it, even if I do say so myself.

All materials used are Stampin' Up!
Stamp Set - Friendship Blooms, Lot's of Thoughts
Inks - Bashful Blue, Always Artichoke.
Cardstock - So Saffron, Always Artichoke, Basic Black, Very Vanilla

Finally Finished.

2008-01-25T16:42:00.000+10:30

I know it's been a while since I've updated my blog, I just wanted to put up a quick post to say I haven't forgotten you all, it's been such a busy time moving this week that I haven't had time to do anything, you all probably know how painful moving a house is. But it's finally done, I've now unpacked most of my stuff. The good thing about moving in with the Inlaws is that most of the stuff is in storage, and the only things I really need are my clothes and of course my precious stamping supplies.

I even managed to find some time to create today. I just now need to wait for the camera battery to charge up so I can take a photo, I'd usually use my husbands camera, but I wouldn't have a clue where that is.

Tomorrow I promise to post the card up. I've missed blogging and creating. But, with the holiday nearly over, I'm sure I'm going to find more time to do such things. I hope you've all have a great long weekend.

Some Sparkly Stuff

2008-01-12T15:04:00.000+10:30

I know that a few of you that read my blog would have already seen these cards. Especially if you were at the class last Tuesday you would have made them as well. But I wanted to share with the rest of you. These are 2 very simple cards to show the basics of embossing. The first card using the gorgeous Wild Rose stamp set shows the very basics of embossing. The 2nd card uses what's called Dazzling Diamond Dust. It's made up of 1/2 clear embossing powder and 1/2 Dazzling Diamond glitter. It's gives a rough sparkly look. If you're interested in learning more about embossing, please email me and I'll be happy to send you the tutorial notes to give you an idea.

All material used is Stampin' Up!
French Rose
Stamp Sets- French Script, Wild Rose
Ink - Bravo Burgundy, Cranberry Crisp, Gold Encore
Cardstock - Chocolate Chip, Very Vanilla
Accessories - Gold Embossing Powder, Gold Organdy Ribbon

Sparkly Buds
Stamp Set - Bud Basics, It's Your Birthday
Inks - Perfect Plum, Apricot Appeal, Certainly Celery, Lavender Lace
Cardstock - Lovely Lilac, Apricot Appeal, Whisper White
Accessories - Clear Embossing Powder, Dazzling Diamond Glitter.

A Gift

2008-01-06T15:39:00.000+10:30

At the beginning of December Stampin' Up! Demonstrators worldwide received a gift from our founder Shelli Gardner. This year we received a Level 3 hostess set from the upcoming catalogue. And I love it. But with everything that's been happening, I only got a chance to mount and play with it over the Christmas Break. It's such a pretty set. I really wanted to play around with the colouring of the flowers, so I stamped up a mixed sheet of images on an A4 Whisper White, grabbed my watercolour crayons and aquabrush and just sat and had fun.

I then made 2 cards out of it, I still have some pieces left that will be great to make some quick cards later on. Of course I had to cut the butterflies out and sparkle them up. I hope you like them.

All material used is SU.
Stamp Set - Time Well Spent
Cardstock - Perfect Plum, Pale Plum, Whisper White
Ink - Stazon Black
Accessories - Pink Gingham, Soft Subtle Brads, Pink Organdy, Soft Subtle Watercolour Wonder Crayons.

Stamp Club

2008-01-06T06:33:00.000+10:30

I've had a couple of requests for a new Stamp Club. But, we still need more players. This will be a catalogue party only club, so you can be anywhere in Australia and still be a part of it. All you have to do is commit to spending a min of $30 every 2 months (not incl shipping). Then each person will be assigned a month to be hostess, as a hostess you receive all the benefits of having a party, the min you'll receive is $30 worth of free product and a Level 1 hostess set. Each participant will also receive a free catalogue to start with. The first club will be in Febuary, so if you're interested please drop me a comment or email me for more information. If you have family and friends that might be interested as well, then please feel free to pass on my details to them.

I'll be back later on this afternoon to post a couple of cards I made during the week. Just have to find the camera in amongst all these boxes......

Sizzix Dies For Sale

2007-12-31T17:25:00.000+10:30

As many of you already know, and some may not, I'm moving in about 3.5 weeks. We're moving from the lovely Lower Blue Mountains to the beachside town of Ulladulla. We'll also be moving in with the In-Laws (and yes that's a good thing, love them to death, for all those that just groaned lol). With a lot of our possessions going into storage I've decided to offload a few things. I'm starting with my Sizzix System. This has been sitting in my cupboard barely used for a year. The sizzix dies are great, mostly tag dies with a couple of shapes in there, also the alphabets. These can all be used in the Cuttlebugs as well. Here's the list, if you're interested please email or leave a comment with your email address and I'll get back to you.

Cheers,
Karen

Yellow Dies - $7.00
Bugs Itty Bitty #1
Butterfly #3

Red Dies - $15.00
Tag Scallop, Combo
Tag, Scallop Large
File Folder
Rectangle Frame
Tag, Crescent Combo
Tag, Traditional Combo
Frame, Slide Mounts, Coinholder
Bookplates, Oval

Alphabets -
Sizzlit Boxed Brush - $55.00
Sizzlit Girls Are Weird - $55.00
DoodleBlock Lower - $40.00
DoodleBlock Upper - $40.00
Ransom - $40.00

Sizzix Machine - $40.00

Altered.....ummm something??

2007-12-26T07:45:00.000+10:30

I don't think I would call this a mini album, and it's not a photo frame, I guess it's a combination of the two. My mind's a blank, anyone have any ideas? Anyway, whatever it is, I really loved doing it. It's a gift for my inlaws, and I might just have to make a couple more. The 2 lovely people in the photos are my husbands grandmother and niece. Taken at Nan's 90th birthday a couple of weeks ago. So we have the 2nd oldest family member (Nan's husband is 93) and the youngest family member of 5 weeks. Isn't that cool? I just love these photos and felt inspired to make something from them.

I used the Kaisercraft wood albums, SU Spring Showers Paper and SU cardstock and Bluebird Grosgrain, plus some other bits and pieces I had lying around my craft area. I hope you like it. I'm going to hit my desk today to make another one in a different style.

Teachers Gifts

2007-12-24T17:06:00.000+10:30

I wanted to do something nice and simple for my kids teachers this year, but something that would be handy for them to use, and not chocolate, which I'm sure they'd get plenty of. So I thought a box of handmade cards would be nice. I only photographed one of the boxes but they designs were pretty much the same. I even dragged out my Twinkling H2O's to colour in the big flowers.
From the response I got, the teachers loved them. I hope they get great use out of them next year, my kids had wonderful teachers this year.

Lots and Lots of Christmas Cards!

2007-12-16T09:30:00.000+10:30

I promised this year to make Christmas cards for my Sister and Mother in law. I finally finished them on Friday night, which is good, because I was seeing them on Saturday.

My Sister in law has a lot of overseas friends and wanted some Aussie themed cards, which gave me a great excuse to buy the Happy Christmas, Mate set. (Like I need an excuse to buy a new set ;-P)
Anyway, here are the 5 designs I did.

And I'll show you the upclose ones of the Aussie cards. I love how these turned out, very festive and bright, just like an Aussie Christmas should be.

And one last photo, of the all packaged up in the these cute little gift bags I whipped up. I've said it before, but I'll say it again, I love making gift bags!

All materials are Stampin' Up, excluding the gift bags and patterend paper. If you'd like to know what Stampin' Up! materials were used, please don't hesitate to contact me, and I'd happy to let you know.

It's Your Birthday!

2007-12-10T13:57:00.000+10:30

I really wanted to do something as far from a Chrismtas Cards as I could possibly do, and I think a Masculine Birthday card fits the profile. And of course some of the new designer paper from the Summer Mini just had to be used as well. This is the Au Chocolat paper and it's so beautiful. I love it. And I don't know if you can see it or not, but I've embossed the saying with copper embossing powder. I just wanted to add a little bit of depth to the stamped image.

All materials used are Stampin' Up!

Stamp Set - It's Your Birthday
Inks - Versamark
Cardstock - Chocolate Chip, Very Vanilla, Au Chocolate Designer Paper
Accessories - Copper Embossing Powder, Cream Grosgrain.

Summer Mini Preview

2007-11-27T18:01:00.000+10:30

Yes! We have another Mini Cataglogue about to start. It runs from Dec until the end of March, and there are is some beautiful stuff inside. Here's a sneak at one of the new sets, it's called Bud Basics, and it caught my eye straight away, there's even a matching Jumbo Wheel. It is a 2 step stampin step, with the images coming in a chalk like stamp and a matching line over lay. You can see it here in this card, the big image is the bold images, and the top one the line images that overlay. Here I've used them seperately, but it still gives a striking card. Of course I also added some bling. I used a 2 way glue pen and some dazzling diamonds to give it a bit of sparkle.

If you'd like a copy of the Summer Mini, please email me and I'll happily post one off to you. And as a December Special, I'm offering 10% off all customer orders in Dec. And 15% off all hostess orders if you host a party. That could be a workshop or a catalogue party if you're out Sydney. Email me for more details.

Stamp Set - Bud Basics
Inks - Regal Rose, Certainly Celery
Cardstock - Whisper White, Basic Black
Accessories - 2 Way Glue Pen, Dazzling Diamonds.

Gift Bag

2007-11-26T13:55:00.000+10:30

First off, I must apologise for being so late in my blog posting. I've been really really busy this month with workshops, classes and our first stamp club meeting! Plus everything else in the normal day to day things. That, and I've been pretty distracted by the Star Wars Lego game. Now I'm not a big Star Wars fan, but heck, make them out of little Lego blocks and I'm hooked. But if anyone can tell me how to get the canister in the first room of Epiosde 1 chapter 3. I'd be greatly appreciative.

Now, I must say I love these little bags. This is what we made for one of our projects for our First Stamp Club meeting we had last Thursday. They're lots of fun to do, and I think they look great as presents for teachers, maybe with some chocolate added inside of course. The brad is one of the little tricks we learnt at Sydney Regional Training this month. You just grab a brad, pop a mini glue dot on top, then dip it in the Dazzling Diamonds Glitter. Looks fabulous! And the flower was cut out of the sheets from the Holiday Thyme paper.

Materials Used are Stampin' Up!
Stamp Set - Gifts of Joy
Inks - Bravo Burgundy
Cardstock/Paper - Holiday Thyme, Bravo Burgundy, Very Vanilla
Accessories - Small gift bag (non SU), Cream Grosgrain.

How Many Days To Christmas??

2007-11-12T09:53:00.001+10:30

I think it's around 42 days until Christmas, so far I have nothing organised! And I know we aren't even going to be shopping for presents until the 15th Dec. So this is going to be an interesting experiencw. There will probably be a panic post sometime around the end of December here.

Anyway, here are 2 Christmas cards I had as make and takes for this weekends workshops. I love the Christmas paper we have this month. I'm going to have to stock up on it so I can do my Christmas layouts, it's such beautiful paper. I hope you like them.

All material used is Stampin' Up
Ornament Card
Stamp Set - Holiday Spirit
Cardstock - Bravo Burgundy, Holiday Thyme Designer Paper, Very Vanilla
Ink - Gold Encore
Accessories - Gold Organdy Ribbon, Gold Embossing Powder.

Seasons Greetings Card
Stamp Sets - Many Merry Messages, Snow Flurries
Cardstock - Almost Amethyst, Chocolate Chip, Very Vanilla
Ink - Mellow Moss, Bravo Burgundy, Chocolate Chip
Accessories - Burgundy Grosgrain Ribbon

Cardmakers Bill Of Rights

2007-11-08T12:04:00.000+10:30

My wonderful scrapping/stamping buddy SharonG sent this to me yesterday. I don't know where it originated from so I can't credit, but if anyone knows please leave a comment so I can.

The Cardmaker's Bill of Rights

A Cardmaker delivers the most welcome kind of unannounced visitor: A handmade card. A card touches us—somehow, a small folded piece of paper can comfort, celebrate, reach out or just say hello. Creating a handmade card is an honorable and important task. As a Cardmaker, you are entitled (but not limited) to the following rights:

* You have the right to take as long as you want to complete one handmade card. This may be five minutes or two weeks.

* You have the right to send a card for no other reason than to show off your new stamp, embellishment or technique.

* You have the right to create a fabulous card for your husband, partner or roommate—just because you know it will stay in your house.

* You have the right to spread your cardmaking things out all over, just to admire them.

* You have the right to purchase a certain cardmaking item for no other reason than because a) you like it; b) you think it's cute; c) you'll never find it again, or; d) you know you'll use it someday.

* You have the right to reserve using your most precious supplies on cards only for recipients who will truly appreciate them.

* You have the right to a workspace of your own. This may be the basement, your college student's old bedroom, or the kitchen table.

* You have the right to make cards when inspiration strikes—whether the dishes are done or not.

* You have the right to request peaceful, kid-free, stress-less cardmaking time—guilt-free.

* You have the right to let the handmade card be the gift, too.

* You have the right to value your personal style. You are creating a treasure—and part of that treasure is you.

Tagged

2007-11-07T19:04:00.000+10:30

Jayne, my wonderful upline and serial tagger has once again snuck up on me.

7 Random Things...

Here are the rules which you must abide by if you are tagged:
1. Link to your tagger and post these rules.
2. Share 7 facts about yourself: some random, some weird.
3. Tag 7 people at the end of your post and list their names (linking to them).
4. Let them know they've been tagged by leaving a comment at their blogs.

1. My son is named after 2 horror movie characters. Damian Ash. Can you guess the movies?
2. As of last Monday, I've written off 2 cars, both times not my fault by the way.
3. I never have any cash :-0
4. I still don't know what I'm getting my children for Christmas.
5. I love reading Harry Potter fanfiction.
6. I think Alan Rickman has a voice like melted chocolate.
7. Loud noises and constant talking annoy me. (Aka my children of an afternoon.)

Ok, I'm going to tag the usual suspects. And damn it I need more friends with blogs.

Dawn Cameron Kate SharonG SharonM

Paper Bows

2007-11-07T13:43:00.000+10:30

Last week a wonderful tutorial went up on Splitcoast Stampers on how to make these great looking bows! I'm in love. I haven't had much of a chance to play with them until today. But with both kids in school today, and with it pouring down rain here, what better day then today to sit down and create. I'm in love. I'm certainly going to be making these for the "good" Christmas presents this year. Somehow I don't think the kids will even look at them when they rip open their gifts from Santa. I love the tiny one, that was so much fun to make. And I'm going to have to say, how cool are these photos? I mean, seriously. I think I did a darn good job with those.

Anyhoo, I hope you like them, and pop on over to Splitcoast for the tutorial.

A Set For A Good Cause

2007-11-01T18:36:00.001+10:30

At the end of October this year, SU Australia's General Manager Dave Abbot passed away from a rare blood disorder. Dave was a fantastic manager and will be greatly missed by all that knew him.
You can see Dave and his family above in the flyer picture.

For the month of November, Stampin' Up! Are releasing the stamp set All In The Family. 100% of the world wide sales from this set will go to Daves family.

Like a lot of demonstrators, I don't feel right in making any money off this set, so I'll selling this set for $65 incl p/h. So please help us in this great cause for a man who will be sadly missed. Email me at karen@oliver.net if you'd like to help out. There is also a bank account for funds if you still wish to help, but don't want to purchase the set. I'm happy to give you those details as well.

Genie Bag

2007-10-30T13:02:00.000+10:30

It's not often I create something and the first thing I think of is, "I really should put that on my blog!" Well, I made this Genie Bag not 20 minutes ago and thought I'd share it with you all. I'm very proud of it. I'm thinking these would make great Christmas gifts, especially using the Wonderful In True Thyme paper Stampin' Up are having a promotion with in November. If you want more information on that please email me and I'll happily send you a flyer. Or better yet, sign up for my newsletter if you haven't already. It goes out at the beginning of the month, I'll have all the details in that.

Materials used are Stampin' Up!
Cardstock - Basic Black, Petals and Paisley Designer Paper, Whisper White
Stamp Set - Polka Dots and Paisley
Accessories - Bluebird Grosgrain

Bundle of Joy

2007-10-29T17:28:00.000+10:30

With only 1 month left of the Spring Mini, Novembers' the time to make your final purchases of anything you might like to own. We don't know what will make it into the new Catalogue in April. So if you don't want to miss out , place your order before the 30th November.

Penrith Papercrafts

2007-10-24T12:37:00.000+09:30

On the 2nd, 3rd and 4th of November, Penrith is hosting the Papercrafts Expo once again. And once again, I'll be there with a few other SU Demonstrators, we had so much at Homebush, we couldn't pass up the opportunity to do it all again. So please, if you are going, pop on over to our stall and say hello, I'll be there Saturday and Sunday. We'll have some great specials and a free make and take which is spectacular!

So I've been busy with making samples and working on ideas for my demonstration. I'll be doing embossing and this is just one of the great things you can do with embossing. Fake metal. So much fun to do and so easy. Hopefully I'll post a few more samples before the weeks out.

All materials used are Stampin' Up!
Stamp Set - Looks Like Spring
Inks - Chocolate Chip, Encore Gold
Cardstock - Spring Showers Design Paper, Pumpkin Pie
Accessories - Bluebird Grosgrain, Gold Embossing Powder.

Email Problems

2007-10-22T08:56:00.000+09:30

Hi Everyone,
I wasn't sure where to post this but thought here might be a good place. I'm having a problem with my emails at the moment, I haven't had access to them since 9am Sat morning. According to my provider it may be another 37 hours until it's fixed. Not happy Jan!

Anyway, if anyone wishes to contact me, that if you actually read this email lol you can try smeo27@hotmail.com

Springtime Stems

2007-10-12T11:20:00.000+09:30

I love 2 step stampin sets. You can quickly create a lovely looking card with the smallest of fuss. I've used Springtime Stems for this card. This is a level One hostess set. All you have to do is host a workshop or catalogue party and reach the minimum of $300 and you can have this set for free + $30 worth of catalouge product. If you want more information or would like to host a party. Please email me for more details.

All materials used are Stampin' Up!

Stamp Set - Springtime Stems, Warm Words
Inks - Certainly Celery, Basic Black, Perfect Plum, Bashful Blue, Regal Rose
Cardstock - Whisper White, Pale Plum, Basic Black.

Polka Dots Rock!

2007-10-09T16:38:00.000+09:30

Oh yes they do! I haven't had much of a chance to play with the Sage Shadow colour, it's one colour I really overlook in my stash, but I've just bought the inkpad and have a new stamp set to play with. (Actually I have 4 new sets to play with bwwaaahhhaaa ..... umm that was supposed to be an evil laugh....) And I'm going stamping/scrapping tomorrow with my buddies. So I'll have all day to have a good play with it all. Anyway, I hope you like the card, it's very simple, but I think it looks nice.

All materials used are Stampin' Up!

Stamp Set - Polka Dot and Paisley
Cardstock - Sage Shadow, Chocolate Chip, Very Vanilla
Inks - Sage Shadow, Chocolate Chip

The Inklings Cyberstamp

2007-10-08T09:15:00.000+09:30

Last night I participated in The Inklings Cyberstamp at Jayne's forum. What fun. I love cyberstamps that make me do things I would never normally try. There were 3 challenges last night, I only managed to get 2 done before heading to bed, but I'm going to do the 3rd challenge this afternoon and with any luck will upload it tonight.

The first challenge was an oragami box, here's a great tutorial and a fantastic blog from a very talented lady.

The 2nd challenge was a sketch challenge from Beate's website. Another very talented lady.
And I'm totally in love with this card.

Don't forget that the October Promotion is Spring Is In The Air!
If you buy the Looks Like Spring set and the Spring Bouquet punch. You'll get a packet of Spring Showers/Spring Flowers Designer Double Sided Paper for free!

Oragami Box Materials
Stamps - Looks Like Spring
Paper - Spring Showers, Very Vanilla
Inks - Bashful Blue, Creamy Caramel, Chocolate Chip
Accessories - Bluebird Grosgrain

Polka Dot Card Materials
Stamps - Polka Dots and Paisley
Paper - Old Olive, Regal Rose, Barely Banana, Petals and Paisley Paper.
Inks - Old Olive

A Layout.

2007-10-07T08:44:00.000+09:30

I very rarely scrapbook anymore, and I feel really slack about it. I have so much to catch up on. And it's not like I haven't stopped buying the supplies lol. This layout was inspired by one of the sketch challenges over at the Elite Stampers Blog. (Some very very talented ladies over there, I bow down in awe.)

I fell in love with the colours, I think Regal Rose and Basic Black look so yummy together. This has been sitting on my desk for a week, I've just been too lazy to photograph it. But now that my wonderful husband has finally installed photoshop on my laptop and I no longer have to wrestle the children to use the media pc, I'll be able to update whenever the whim hits.

Oh and WOO HOO! I've been an SU demo for a year! I can't believe how fast time has flown, a big big Thank You to all those that have supported me during this year, my wonderful stamping/scrapping/maccas meeting/bestest friends, my hubby who has put up with all the ups and downs. My very supportive upline Jayne, who is always there to let me vent or woo hoo too. And my great team of downlines. Very lovely ladies. Thank You.

Materials Used.

Stamp Set - Petal Prints, Big Deal Alpha
Inks - Regal Rose, Basic Black
Cardstock - Basic Black, Whisper White, Regal Rose
Accessories - Prima Flower, Bold Bright Brad.

What fun!

2007-10-04T17:31:00.000+09:30

I had great fun the other day coming up with a sample to put in my newsletter. I wanted to do something with masking so I started playing around with a piece of whisper white cardstock, the All The Best set and my markers. It's been a while since I've direct coloured on my stamps with my markers and it was so much fun. Here's the card I came up with.

If you'd like a step by step tutorial on how to do the masking technique, please feel free to email me and I'll happily send you one.

All materials used are Stampin' Up!

Stamp Set - All The Best, Seeing Spots
Inks - Basic Black
Cardtock - Ballet Blue, Basic Black, Whisper White
Accessories - Bluebird Grosgrain, Rich Regal Markers.

New Stamp Club

2007-10-02T14:41:00.000+09:30

Do you want to receive all the wonderful hostess benefits and have a guarenteed party of $300 min in orders? Well all you have to do is join my new stamp club. Every 2nd month you'll need to place a min of $30 in orders (not incl shipping). We'll also be learning a new technique on that month at a special workshop. If you can't make it to the workshop then you'll still receive all the supplies and a detailed tutorial for that months project.

At the beginning of the month each member is assigned a month when they'll be hostess. When it's your month you'll be able to collect outside orders or even have a workshop to bump up your orders on top of the min stamp club orders.

Stamp Club is also open to anyone, anywhere, you certainly don't need to be in the area to join.
Last Stamp Club we had members as far away as Kempsey, and the Central Coast.

If you're interested in joining or would like more information please email me on karen@oliver.net

Petal Prints

2007-09-29T12:15:00.000+09:30

I've been having so much fun playing with this set. I have no idea why I held off so long on buying it. It really is lovely. You'll probably be seeing a few more projects on my blog with this set.

This is the first card I made with it as soon as I mounted it. I hope you like it.

Materials Used
Stamp Set - Petal Prints
Ink - Really Rust, Old Olive, Chocolate Chip
Cardstock - Whisper White, Really Rust, Old Olive
Accessories - Navy Organdy.

I've been tagged...again!

2007-09-28T14:02:00.000+09:30

So here goes

1. YOUR ROCK STAR NAME: (first pet, current car)
Cheeky Zafira (oohh I like that)

2. YOUR GANGSTA NAME: (favorite ice cream, favorite cookie)
Boysenberry Venice

3. YOUR FLY “GUY/GIRL” NAME: (first initial first name, first 3 letters last name)
K-Ver

4. YOUR DETECTIVE NAME: (favorite color, favorite animal)
Blue Jaguar

5. YOUR SOAP OPERA NAME: (middle name, city where you were born)
Anne Kempsey

6. YOUR STAR WARS NAME: (first 3 letters last name, first 2 letters first name)
VerKa

7. SUPERHERO NAME: (2nd favorite color, favorite drink and add” the”)
The Purple Vodka

8. NASCAR NAME: (first names of your grandfathers)
William John

9. STRIPPER NAME: (favorite perfume, favorite candy)
Aqua Di Gio Boost

10. WITNESS PROTECTION NAME: (mother’s and father’s middle names)

Elaine William

Okey dokey, I tag....... Sharon M, Dawn and Kate.

I Love Bling

2007-09-27T15:02:00.000+09:30

I love playing with my Dazzling Diamonds glitter. It makes everything girly and sparkly (especially around my desk...but that's another story). This time I used some Crystal Effects for that 3D look and sprinkled the glitter over the top while still wet. And I love how it turned out.

I now have some 2 way glue as well and am off to play with that for a while. I have a feeling that by the end of the night I'm really going to be sparkling. Hopefully tomorrow I'll have a fab new card or 2 to post.

All materials used are Stampin' Up!

Cardstock - Night of Navy, Kraft, Very Vanilla
Inkpads - Not Quite Navy, Elegant Eggplant, Bravo Burgundy
Stamp Set - Dreams Come True
Accessories - Crystal Effects, Dazzling Diamonds, 1 1/4" Circle Punch, 1 3/8" Circle Punch

Oh Geez...Another Christmas Card....

2007-09-18T17:38:00.000+09:30

Yep, another one. I have quite a few Christmas cards to make this year. Including ones for family. So I really need a few different designs, and I had so much fun playing with the Criss Cross design that I made another one. It's simple and elegant I think, and I'll certainly be using it this year.

Material Used
Stamp Set - Holiday Spirit
Inks - Gold Encore, Old Olive
Cardstock - Very Vanilla, Basic Black, Old Olive
Accessories - Gold Embossing Powder, Burgundy Ribbon, Ivory Organdy Ribbon.

A Different Set

2007-09-17T14:47:00.000+09:30

I recently had a chance to play with the Bareback set, before I sent it up to my Mum. For some reason she gets me to mount her stamps for her, which is cool, because then I can use them before sending them. I like this set, it's very different from what I would normally buy or use. But I had fun playing with it.

All material used is Stampin' Up!
Inks - Chocolate Chip
Cardstock - Very Vanilla, Chocolate Chip, Recollections
Stamp Set - Bareback
Accessories - Old Olive Brads.

And how's this... I posted 2 days in a row!

Criss Cross Card

2007-09-16T12:05:00.000+09:30

I decided that it was time to take a break from doing the lawns and spring cleaning the kids bedrooms. (How much stuff can children shove under their beds???) It's been over a week since I posted on here and I was getting withdrawel symptoms, and I make a public promise to post at least 3 times this week.

I loved this tutorial on Splitcoast Stampers. Such a fun card to make, I did adjust the size to suit the Australian dimensions, so I could get 2 "folders" out of one sheet. And as you can tell, I used that paper again. I love this paper. It's so pretty and I use it for a lot of workshops.

All materials used are Stampin' Up!

Stamp Set - Scribble This
Cardstock - Very Vanilla, Chocolate Chip, Recollections Paper
Inks - Chocolate Chip
Accessories - 1 1/4" Circle Punch, 1 3/8" Circle Punch

Free Hodgepode For New Demonstrators!

2007-09-07T18:26:00.000+09:30

What a great deal that Stampin' Up! are offering new recruits that sign up in September. A free tin of Hodgepodge, valued at $52.95. Hodgepodge is a fantastic tin full of metal hardware like label holders, buckles and brads. Perfect to add to your scrapbook pages and cards.

There are many different types of demonstrators, you can either join up to persue a business aspect, or to make a little bit of extra money at your leisure or you can join up just to get the 20% discount that Demonstrators receive. If you think you might be interested in joining my team, please email me and I'll happily answer any questions and send you any information you might need.

Embossing

2007-09-02T09:30:00.000+09:30

When I started stamping about 9 years ago, one of the first things I learned was how to emboss. It's always been a favourite technique of mine, although I haven't done much of it lately, I figured this weekend was a good a weekend as any to pull out all my supplies and start heating.

I love how embossing can make a card pop. And add a certain elegance to it. I've made 2 cards this weekend that I really like, one a nice simple Christmas card, cause let's face it, when you need to make 50 of them, you don't want complicated. And a lovely card using the Dreams Come True set that's hardly ever opened. I hope you like them..

All materials are Stampin' Up!
Be Merry Card
Stamp Sets - Snow Flurries, Warm Words
Inks - Versamark
Cardstock - Bashful Blue, Ballet Blue
Accessories - Silver Embossing Powder, Bluebird Grosgrain, Silver Organdy Ribbon.

French Love
Stamp Sets - French Script, Dreams Come True
Inks - Gold Encore, Old Olive, Bravo Burgundy
Cardstock - Chocolate Chip, Whisper White
Accessories - Gold Embossing Powder, Olive Organdy, Stampin Dimensionals.

Acetate Card

2007-08-28T13:33:00.000+09:30

One of the latest tutorials on splitcoaststampers.com is how to make a great acetate card, of course I had to give it a go. I love the look of it, and I'm thinking I may even do these as some of my Christmas Cards this year. So here's my version. I hope you like it. Please excuse the poor photo, it's very windy outside so you can imagine what it would be like trying to take a photo of acetate standing up.

Materials List.
Stamp Set - Snow Flurries, Warm Words
Cardstock - Whisper White, Ballet Blue
Ink - White StazOn, Ballet Blue, Whisper White
Accessories - White Organdy.

Arrrgghh it's a pirates life...

2007-08-19T11:35:00.000+09:30

Ok, that's a lame title, I know. But for the challenges at essentialbaby.com.au I needed to create a boys birthday. This is what happened. I know I've seen the 4 circles before but cannot for the life of me remember where. I guess that's one of the hazards when you surf so many sites with such great ideas. And please forgive me, I know the photo is a bit wonky, but its rainy and windy here today. Just getting the card to stay upright to photograph was fun.

All material is Stampin' Up!
Stamp Sets - Fresh Fillers, Ahoy, Matey.
Ink - Basic Black
Cardstock - Pumpkin Pie, Ballet Blue, Basic Black.
Accessories - Slit Punch, Corner Rounder. 11/4 inch circle punch, dymo labeller (not SU).

My Girl

2007-08-13T09:23:00.000+09:30

I spent the weekend scrapping, now all the people that know me, you can pick yourself up off the floor right now. It's not that much of a shock. Ok, so it is. But that's beside the point.

I have been really lax in my scrapping lately, for some reason I've been making a lot of cards. So I spent the weekend, organising my supplies, getting photos printed and doing layouts. I started a mini album for the grandparents of my DD's school photos, and I did her class photos from last year. I also found these great photos on my PC and was inspired to do a layout.

Tomorrow I'm going to concentrate on my DS. I have some great photos of him that need to be immortalised. I'm also dying to get my hands on some of the fantastic paper in the new mini, I really want the petals and paisley and notations sets.

All materials used are Stampin' Up!
Cardstock - Cranberry Crisp, Recollections Paper
Stamp Set - Warm Words
Inks - Chocolate Chip
Accessories - Ivory Organdy, Old Olive Brads.

August Christmas Stamp A Stack

2007-08-06T09:30:00.000+09:30

If you'd like to make this great retro Christmas card, plus another design. My next Christmas Stamp-A-Stack is on Wednesday 22nd August from 7pm - 9pm. Cost is $15, and you'll make 10 cards with envelopes. Please email me for more details.

Just wanted to add the elves are coloured with watercolor crayons, it just didn't show up on the photo :-)

Hostess Special

2007-08-02T13:20:00.001+09:30

What a great time to be a hostess this month! If your workshop reaches $600 you can receive a choice of 3 sets valued at 53.95 each. The sets available are Petal Prints, Nice and Easy Notes or All About U. So not only would you get a free hostess set and $70 worth of free product but an extra free set. How cool is that? And the other good thing, the special runs from the 1st August to the 15th September! Don't forget to email me if you'd like to host a workshop!

Ohh Pretty Sparklies....

2007-08-02T13:16:00.000+09:30

I know this is the 2nd card in a row I've posted using this set, but it's a must have! I love it a lot. I was also browsing through the latest copy of Creating Keepsakes last night and was inspired by their black, white and pink article. So today I created. I also decided to add a little bling, although it doesn't show up too well in the photos. But bling is always good.

I hope you like it.

All materials used are Stampin' Up!

Stamp Set - Scribble This
Inks - Basic Black
Cardstock - Whisper White, Regal Rose
Accessories - Kindy Glitz.

Mini Catalogue Preview

2007-07-21T11:48:00.000+09:30

I'm sorry I haven't updated sooner, I've been sick with the flu and just haven't had the energy to do anything. Ahh I love winter lol. But I did think I should post before I go and get my copy of Harry Potter and disappear into the wizarding world for one last time. And I will not cry. Ok, maybe a little.

For all those in the US that view this site, this will be no surprise, but for the Australians, we have a great set in our new mini, called Scribble This. And I love it! I have a feeling you'll be seeing it everywhere, it seems to be one of the most popular sets, and of course I had to get it. It also has a matching well and alphabet. Fantastic.

Our Spring Mini is available from the 1st of August to the 30th November. If you'd like to receieve a free copy please email me and I'll pop one in the post for you.

All Materials Used are Stampin' Up!

Stamp Set - Scribble This
Inks - Whisper White, StazOn
Cardstock - Chocolate Chip, Pale Plum, Whisper White
Accessories - Watercolor Wonder Crayons in Earth Elements

And The Winner Is...

2007-07-15T13:51:00.000+09:30

Jodene! Jodene, if you'd like to email me on karen@oliver.net with your address, I'll pop your prize in the post this week. Well Done!

Dreams Come True

2007-07-13T14:36:00.000+09:30

This was one of the free sets we got at convention this year (along with Be Happy). I haven't actually bought it out much to play with, but another challenge on the Elite Challenges Blog
inspired me to actually bring it out. Our family is also attending a cousins wedding tomorrow so needed to make a card for that as well. I really hope they like it.

All materials used are Stampin' Up!
Stamp Set - Dreams Come True
Inks - Whisper White, Real Red
Cardstock - Basic Black, Real Red
Accessories - White Organdy Ribbon, White Embossing Powder

I've Been Tagged Again!

2007-07-12T14:59:00.000+09:30

Now I never have enough people to tag, that haven't already been tagged of course lol

So 7 vaguely interesting things about myself.

1. I hate housework, loathe it with a passion. And will do anything I can to get out of it.

2. I spend way too much time on the internet.

3. I don't have interests I have obsessions.

4. My husband thinks I'm nuts because I think actors the likes of Alan Rickman, William Peterson and Tony Head are dead sexy.

5. I enjoy silence. I find it very hard to concentrate on reading or creating when there is a lot of noise happening. Although sometimes some Linkin Park is called for.

6. I don't go to the gym anywhere near as much as I should. But when I do I love it.

7. I like to sleep. I love having an afternoon nap, it orders my mind.

Now who to tag.

Marelle

Shaz

Sharon G

Dawn

Ok I only have 4 so we'll see what happens lol.

More Cards and a Stamp A Stack

2007-07-12T11:31:00.000+09:30

Sorry I'm a bit late in posting this morning. My husband and I went and saw Harry Potter OOTP last night. Brilliant movie, and I'm very much looking forward to the new book. But in a way I don't want it to end *sigh*

But here are more cards for a challenge, these ones were for a card challenge on Essential Baby. Also the Son card was the same sketch used for an Inklings Cyber Challenge. Perfect for killing 2 birds with 1 stone, thanks Jayne lol.

The Christmas Card is going to be one of the cards for my Stamp A Stack on July 25th. If you're in the area and would like to join us, please email or call me. Cost is $15 for 10 cards plus envelopes.

Materials Used
Son Card
Stamp Set - Canvas Background, Big Deal Alphabet
Inks - Real Red, Basic Black
Cardstock - Real Red, Cool Carribean, Brilliant Blue.
Accessories - Bluebird Grosgrain

Christmas Card
Stamp Set - Seeing Spots, Greetings Galore
Inks - Cranberry Crisp, Old Olive
Cardstock - Very Vanilla, Cranberry Crisp

Another Elite Challenge

2007-07-11T08:28:00.000+09:30

This time it was to use the Sassy Stems set. And of course I had to colour with the fabulous Watercolour Crayons. So nice. And don't forget they're on special this month lol.

Materials Used
Stamp Sets - Sassy Stems, Warm Words
Inks - StazOn Jet Black, Chocolate Chip
Cardstock - Cranberry Crisp, Chocolate Chip, Recollections Paper, Very Vanilla
Accessories - Wine Organdy Ribbon.

Elite Challenges

2007-07-10T09:14:00.000+09:30

Being kid free this week, I'm trying my hardest to catch up on all the challenges I've been slack in doing. So with any luck, I might have something to post everyday on my blog. The first one is a sketch challenge from www.scrapbook.com I actually liked this sketch a lot. And I got to use some of our wonderful scrapping paper. I really do like the look of this one, if I do say so myself (not that I'm biased at all). Hope you enjoy.

Materials Used
Stamp Set - Warm Words
Inks - Chocolate Chip
Cardstock - Recollections Paper, Basic Black, Very Vanilla, Cranberry Crisp
Other - Prima Flowers.

Vote Now!

2007-07-08T10:10:00.000+09:30

Well, it's time to vote for your favourite SU Challenge submission. Scroll on down to the poll and click on your favourite. The winner will receive a brand new Perennial Favourites stamp set.

Voting closes on the 14th July 2007.

July Promotion

2007-07-01T16:19:00.000+09:30

Another fantastic promotion this month, and on top of that we'll have the Mini Catalogue starting in August so a couple of exciting months!

The promotion this month is for every $50 you spend you can purchase the watercolour crayons or pencils at 25% off. Also for the first 5 people that place an order I'll include a free set of blender pens. Offer valid until the 31st July. If you'd like more details please email me on karen@oliver.net and I'll email you the flyer.

June Elite Stampers Cyberchallenge

2007-07-01T14:07:00.000+09:30

On Thursday night we had a cyber challenge on Angela Sargeants forum for the Elite Stampers. The great thing about challenges, it really makes you think outside the box.

The challenges set by Tracey Eaton, were challenging to say the least, especially the first colour one. We had to use the colours Tempting Turquoise, Pumpkin Pie, Rose Red and Blush Blossom. Not colours that I'd usually use together but I really like the bright combo of them.

The second Challenge was a sketch challenge, we had to create an everyday and Christmas card from the same sketch.

The third challenge was create a card using just inks, cardstock and stamps. And of course that's how I usually create my cards, but I like what I came up with anyway.

All material used are Stampin' Up! and available through me.

First Card
Stamp Set - All The Best
Inks - Rose Red Marker
Cardstock - Blush Blossom, Tempting Turquoise, Pumpkin Pie

Second Card
Stamp Sets - All The Best, Fresh Fillers
Inks - Chocolate Chip, Whisper White
Cardstock - Very Vanilla, Pale Plum, Chocolate Chip

Third Card
Stamp Set - Holiday Spirit
Inks - Cranberry Crisp
Cardstock - True Thyme, Cranberry Crisp, Very Vanilla

Fourth Card
Stamp Set - All The Best, Canvas Background
Inks - Old Olive, Not Quite Navy, Chocolate Chip
Cardstock - Old Olive, Not Quite Navy, Chocolate Chip

I scrapped!

2007-06-23T14:35:00.000+09:30

It's such a rare thing for me to sit down and actually do a layout. I really need to rectify that situation and do a lot more scrapping. Although firstly I do need to get some of our digital photos printed. But I did do something yesterday, I've been looking for a design to do as a make and take for workshops and this is what I came up with. An 8x8 page and a matching card using the left over product. I love it, and am very pleased with the outcome, if I do say so myself.

Don't you just adore the Recollections Paper that SU have? It's so yummy and I love how it all matches our cardstock. Really takes the guess work out of doing a layout.

Also I just wanted to say a big thank you to all those that have left comments on my blog recently. I'm very happy you like my work :-) makes me feel all warm and gooey inside to have such nice feedback. Thank you.

All materials used are Stampin' Up! And available for purchase through me

Layout.

Stamp Sets Used - Big Deal Alphabet, Be Happy
Inks - Chocolate Chip, Bravo Burgandy
Cardstock - Cranberry Crisp, Chocolate Chip, Very Vanilla
Paper - Recollections
Other - More Mustard Brad, Burgundy Grosgrain, Stampin Dimensionals

Card

Stamp Sets Used - Big Deal Alphabet, Be Happy
Inks - Chocolate Chip, Bravo Burgundy
Cardstock - Chocolate Chip, Very Vanilla
Paper - Recollections
Other - More Mustard Brad, Burgundy Grosgrain, Stampin Dimensionals.

More Challenge Photos!

2007-06-17T19:35:00.000+09:30

I can't believe how much I've posted today!
And another fantastic card, by our resident Tupperchick, Kate.

And for something different. A coaster box by Jodene. It's so sweet. Might just have to CASE this idea ;-) Thanks Jodene.

Simply Said

2007-06-17T14:51:00.000+09:30

I borrowed this set off a friend for a week, thanks Cameron :-) And I'm in love. *sigh* (Ok, I love all the stamp sets, but that's not the point).

So I've been playing all week, and came up with a few cards, a couple of these were for a challenge on Essential Baby. And the other one was just for fun lol.

All materials used are Stampin' Up! and available through me.

Card One
Stamp Set - Simply Said
Inks - Basic Black and Whisper White
Cardstock - Basic Black and Whisper White
Other - White Gel Pen, Black Journalling Marker

Card Two
Stamp Set - Simply Said
Inks - Perfect Plum
Cardstock - Chocolate Chip, Pale Plum
Other - White Gel Pen

Card Three
Stamp Sets - Simply Said, Everyday Flexible Phrases
Inks - Pale Plum
Cardstock - Chocolate Chip, Pale Plum, Apricot Appeal, Whisper White
Other - Light Pink Grosgrain, Tag Punch.

Challenge Photos

2007-06-17T14:46:00.000+09:30

Thank you Paula, what a fantastic set, we don't have this yet. But I so hope we get it! I adore it.
And it's fabulous to hear from overseas Demos :-)

Thanks Dawn, I love that penguin. Keep them coming, I love seeing all the fantastic ideas.

And we have a photo already! Loving it! Thanks Cheryl. :) Looks Like Spring is certainly one of my favourite sets.

I Challenge You!

2007-06-16T20:33:00.000+09:30

First off, let me start by apologising for taking so long in updating my blog. I have been creating and have a stack of samples to post. It's getting the the computer to be able to fix them up in photoshop which is the problem. But I promise I will post something up tomorrow.

Now, to the nitty gritty. I know that there are people out there that read my blog *big wave*, hello. But I would love to hear from you, so I'm going to issue a challenge. I would like you to create something, using any SU product, then I want you to email me (karen@oliver.net) a photo of your finished product which I will then post on my blog. That's the first step. Simple :-)

At the end of the month, when hopefully someone will have emailed me some photos, I'll ask for a vote and the winning pic will receive a prize. Which will be something yummy and gorgeous and you'll love it! (SU demos' are ineligible to enter the draw but can certainly post a pic)

So come on, get cracking and don't forget to leave a comment that you're going to have a go, I'd love to know how many of you are attempting it.

After The Papercrafts

2007-06-05T16:25:00.000+09:30

WOW what an exciting weekend I had. I'm just catching up on all my blog stuff now. I really needed yesterday to recover lol, well catch up on all the housework that got neglected over the weekend (reality - surfed the net,drank coffee and worked) . It was so lovely meeting new people, and it was fantastic to have the opportunity to talk to people who had never heard of Stampin' Up! before! If you bought a catalogue off us on the weekend, I really hope you enjoyed going through it, looking at all the great stamp sets and the beautiful card samples.

Remember if you'd like to place an order, please feel free to email on karen@oliver.net, and as a bonus, if you place Papercraft Order in the subject line and subscribe to my newsletter, I'll include a surprise bonus gift with your order. Orders can be delievered anywhere in Australia.

Terrific Tags

2007-06-05T16:10:00.000+09:30

I love this set! It's so nice to use to create little gift packs for people. Perfect for Christmas and Birthday presents. Here I've created 3 7cmx7cm gift cards. I've used the same stamp sets, inks and colours. Now all I need to do is make a little box or gift bag to store them in.

The Terrific Tags set is a Level 1 Hostess Set, it also matches the great Tag Punch that we have.

All materials used are Stampin' Up!

Stamp Sets - Sweet Spot, Canvas Background, Terrific Tags
Inks - Apricot Appeal, Chocolate Chip, Perfect Plum, Whisper White
Cardstock - Apricot Appeal, Chocolate Chip, Pale Plum, Very Vanilla
Other - Caramel Gingham, Stampin Dimensionals, Tag Punch, Pastels.

June Promotion

2007-06-05T16:07:00.000+09:30

What a fantastic promotion this month. Have you been thinking about purchasing a set of our wonderful Markers, well this month as a bonus you can grab 4 stamp sets at a reduced price! Also if you order through me, I'll give you FREE inkpad in the colour of your choice, how sweet is that!

Contact me on karen@oliver.net to take advantage of this great deal.

Pocket Cards

2007-05-27T13:20:00.000+09:30

I had a lovely friend come over last night and keep me company while I stamped. So I played with cards to display at the Papercrafts Expo next weekend. Here are 2 things I created, which I'm really pleased with. I was looking for something different to the normal cards. And I found Pocket Cards. Which are perfect for things like invitations.

All materials used are Stampin' Up!
First Card.
Stamp Sets - Looks Like Spring, Fresh Fillers
Cardstock - Chocolate Chip and Very Vanilla
Inks - Creamy Caramel, Chocolate Chip, Mellow Moss, Bravo Burgundy
Other - Burgundy Grosgrain

Second Card.
Stamp Set - Seeing Spot
Cardstock - Kraft, Cranberry Crisp
Inks - Whisper White, Chocolate Chip
Other - Burgundy Grosgrain

Papercraft Festival and Other Stuff

2007-05-23T16:34:00.000+09:30

I have the wonderful opportunity to be able to share a stall with some other very talented SU demos from The Elite Stampers. We'll have catalogues for sale, be doing make and takes, taking names to book workshops and also doing some great demoing. So if you're in the area, please pop in and say hello. It's the 1st, 2nd and 3rd of June at the Sydney Showgrounds, Olympic Park.
Check out www.papercraftsfestival.com.au for more information.

Now for other stuff, I promise I will put some new cards up very soon. My computer decided that last Friday was a good day to stop working. I have a nice new notebook now and when I get around to installing ( and finding) all my software for Adobe Photoshop and my Camera I'll put some new pics up. This weekend is looking like a likely time. My husband has gone to his parents tonight for a boys weekend with our son. So with just me and the girl home, and her at school during the day, I'm thinking a few days of stamping, scrapping and watching Dr Who for a break are in order.

Join Up in May

2007-05-12T11:42:00.000+09:30

And receive your starter kit for $299! Valued at $585 dollars that's a saving of $286.

And by signing up in May it means that your next full quarter begins in July so you have until September to reach your min quota. Some of the benefits for joining a fantastic company are...

* Low min quotas.

* No annual membership fee.

* Fantastic Demo support.

* No penalty for resigning.

* You don't need to do workshops.

* You can happily just buy for yourself and friends.

Also as a bonus if you sign up with me in May I'll include a free stamp set up to the value of $30 as a thank you.

So if you think that Stampin' Up!® is the company for you. If you love stamping, scrapbooking and cardmaking. And would like to earn a little extra cash, then contact me and I'll be happy to answer your questions.

Stampin' Up! Convention 2007

2007-05-12T10:27:00.000+09:30

Ok, after a very eventful fortnight, which included a week long holiday at Crescent Head. Visiting family and helping to celebrate my Dad's 60th Birthday. Then being home for less then 24 hours and off again for the fantastic weekend of the first annual Stampin' Up! Convention. And what a fabulous time. Met people from the "teams" for the first time. And met new people as well. It was marvelous and I can't wait until Brisbane next year.

Along with great classes to help us grow our businesses, and fantastic demos by some very talented ladies, including the Co-Founder Shelli Gardner herself. We had a chance to do 2 make and takes on the Saturday. I've uploaded these for you to have a look at. We made these with the 2 free sets we received at check in. Be Happy and Dream Come True. I'm looking forward to using both these sets a lot.

I think these were both designed by Jill Kocherhans. And the materials used are

Love Card
Stamp Set - Dream Come True
Ink - Old Olive, Rose Red, Tempting Turquoise
Cardstock - Cool Caribbean, Old Olive, Rose Red, Tempting Turquoise.
Accessories - Twill Tape, Stampin' Dimensionals ®

Be Happy Page
Stamp Set - Be Happy
Ink - Rose Red, True Thyme
Cardstock - Chocolate Chip, Marigold Morning, Rose Red, True Thyme
Accessories - Sweet Shop Ribbon Originals, Linen Thread, Earth Elements Brads, StampinDimensionals, 1/16" Circle Punch, 1/8" Circle Punch

Now of course, I'm continuing to play with these sets constantly, always happens when you have new toys. So taking the basic design of the flower from the Be Happy Page, I've come up with this as a fairly simple Make and Take for workshops.

All materials used are available through me.

Stamp Sets - Be Happy, Everyday Flexible Phrases.
Inks - Perfect Plum, Mellow Moss, Chocolate Chip.
Cardstock - Very Vanilla, True Thyme, Vintage Violet
Accessories - Stampin Dimensionals, Twine.

I've Been Tagged!

2007-04-23T20:23:00.000+09:30

Egads! I have no idea what to do here, and I'll probably re tag people, I seriously don't have that many blog friends that haven't already been tagged lol. And thanks Marelle :-D

Ok I have to share 7 things about myself.

1. I was born in Kempsey, NSW. But please don't hold that against me.

2. I use to drive a Monorail.

3. Tomorrow is my 8th wedding anniversary and I married my High School sweetheart Gavin. We have 2 beautiful children.

4. My son is named after 2 horror characters.

5. I spend way too much time reading Harry Potter and Dr Who fanfiction.

6. I am way too obsessed with Dr Who.

7. And I'm so darn boring I can't think of a 7th.

Now who to tag, and if you've already been tagged then don't worry lol.

Dawn Lewis

Carol Dunstan

Ok how boring am I , I can only find and 1 had already been tagged. Can you double tag?lol

The Elite Challenge

2007-04-20T10:57:00.000+09:30

A challenge has been set and accepted by some of the most talented Stampin' Up!® Demonstrators in Australia. The Elite Challenges website is up and running for the Demos in Angela Sargeants Elite Stampers Group. Click on the link to the right and go take a look at some beautiful looking cards, hopefully you'll get lot's of inspiration.

Here's the card I made, which I think turned out quite nice (but I may be biased).

Happy Birthday

2007-04-15T05:44:00.000+09:30

Having a play with the new stamp sets I received has been so much fun! For my Stampin' Start Rewards I could pick 3 stamp sets from the catalogue. It was such a hard decision to choose from so many great new sets. I ended up going with Looks Like Spring, which I was currently borrowing from a friend and totally love. Big Deal Alphabet, which was also in the last mini we had, and Everyday Flexible Phrases.

So I decided to create a couple of birthday cards using these sets. And I love them! A Stamp-A-Ma Jig is a must to create the background on the "Best Wishes" card, you need to line up the triangles perfectly to look seamless, but with the Stamp-A-Ma Jig it took next to no time at all.

And I think the Big Deal Alphabet looks great. I'm going to have to create a couple of scrapbook pages using this as well.

All materials used were Stampin' Up!® and are available through me.

Best Wishes Card
Stamp Sets - Looks Like Spring, Big Deal Alphabet, Simple Wishes (retired)
Inks - Mellow Moss, Chocolate Chip.
Card Stock - True Thyme, Chocolate Chip, Very Vanilla

Happy Birthday Card
Stamp Sets - Looks Like Spring, Big Deal Alphabet, Simple Wishes (retired)
Inks - Pretty In Pink, Lavender Lace, Perfect Plum
Cardstock - Lovely Lilac, Pretty In Pink, Very Vanilla

Colour Challenge

2007-04-07T14:01:00.000+09:30

Today I set myself a colour challenge. I pulled 2 pieces of cardstock at random out of my stash and told myself I must create 2 cards with said pieces. This is what I came up with. I don't know if I'm overly happy with them, and I really stepped outside my comfort zone with the first one.

The 2 colours I had to use were Handsome Hunter and Pumpkin Pie. Luckily on this nice cold Autumn day I was inspired.

For the first card, I dragged out my Eucalyptus Walnut Ink, which I bought ages ago and haven't used very much. I sprayed that on some Kraft cardstock and mixed it with Gold Encore ink from my reinker to give a mottled background that acutally looks velvety. I stamped on that with Chocolate Chip and Encore Gold.

The second card needs no explaining, just basic stamping, tearing and inking. But I like the look of it.

Materials used are
Stamp Sets - Heartfelt Thanks, Greetings Galore
Inks - Encore Gold, Chocolate Chip.
Cardstock - Pumpkin Pie, Handsome Hunter, Night of Navy, Kraft
Other - Black and Caramel Gingham.

Tri Fold Card

2007-03-31T13:59:00.000+09:30

Being a lovely Saturday afternoon, and having a clean desk, really puts me in a creative mood. So I thought I'd try making a tri fold card. I also wanted to use a set that was in the Oct-Jan mini but has made it into the new 07/08 catalogue along with the matching punch. I'm really pleased with how it turned out and I think I'm going to be making a few more of these :-)

So I now have a messy desk again and my creative urge has been satisfied.

Materials used are all Stampin' Up!® and available through me.

Stamp Set - Looks Like Spring
Inks - Bravo Burgundy and Mellow Moss
Cardstock - Kraft, Bravo Burgundy, Very Vanilla
Other - Spring Bouquet Punch, Burgundy Grosgrain.

Loads Of Love

2007-03-27T13:23:00.000+09:30

Ok I did something today that I haven't done in a long time. I played with the Pop Up technique.
Not having made a pop up card in nearly 5 years I'm quite pleased with how this turned out. Even if it does look a bit Christamasy.

Materials Used.

Stamp Set - Loads of Love
Inks - Handsome Hunter
Cardstock - Handsome Hunter, Very Vanilla, Kraft
Other - Pastels, Burgundy Ribbon

2007-03-25T12:53:00.000+09:30

After having a very late night at a friends place last night. I don't know how I managed to create something this morning lol. But I like it. And yes Linda, there's that background again :-)

I'm very much in love with simple but elegant cards at the moment. And the one thing I totally love about SU is how much everything coordinates beautifully.

All materials used are Stampin' Up!®

Stamp Sets - French Script and Seeing Spots (new in the 07/08 catalogue!)
Inks - Chocolate Chip and Bravo Burgundy
Cardstock - Bravo Burgundy, Night of Navy and Kraft
Burgundy Grosgrain Ribbon.

March 2007 Cyberstamp

2007-03-10T16:58:00.000+10:30

I love cyberstamps, it get's me right out of my comfort zone and doing this completely different. This months cyberstamp was hosted by Ailsa Tilsner and boy did she make us think.

The first challenge was a colour combo challenge, because I only had limited colours for the challenge I went with very simple. But I like it.

The second challenge was to pick a sample picture from the 2006/2007 IB&C and CASE it. My inspiration came from the second pic on page 60. And I actually love how this card turned out.

The third was a sketch challenge from www.scrapbook.com although I'm still not sure about this card, I'm sure it'll grow on me.

All materials are Stampin' Up!® and available through me.

Card 1. Stamps used are Winged Things
Inks - Whisper White
Cardstock - Kraft, Sage Shadow, Chocolate Chip
Other - Caramel Gingham

Card 2. Stamps used are Heartfelt Thanks, Curvy Verses, Shape Ups, French Script
Inks - Creamy Caramel, Mellow Moss, Basic Black
Cardstock - Very Vanilla, Real Red.
Other - Caramel Gingham, Slit Punch

Card 3. Stamps used are Fresh Fillers, Seeing Spots, Winged Things
Inks - Whisper White, Basic Black, Real Red
Cardstock - Lovely Lilac, Real Red, Very Vanilla, Sage Shadow
Other - Red Grosgrain

Bye Bye To Bloom

2007-03-09T16:03:00.000+10:30

I'm going to be very sad to see this set go, it's one of the first SU sets I bought, I love it. I use it a lot. It's so pretty.

Products used are all Stampin' Up!® and all available through me
Burst Into Bloom Stamp Set
Real Red and Creamy Caramel (yum) Inkpads
Kraft, Very Vanilla and Real Red Cardstock
Red Gingham

Retired List

2007-03-01T11:17:00.000+10:30

It has come to that point in time when Stampin' Up!® retire certain stamps sets to make way for new and exciting products. It'll be sad to see some sets go, so if you want to purchase them, now is your chance. These sets will only be available until the 31st March. And you may have noticed there are a few mini catalogue sets in there too, so we have one last opportunity to purchase these.

Now is the perfect time to have a catalogue party! Contact me for more details.

Click on the link on the right to view the retired list today!

Bleached Image Card

2007-02-25T10:41:00.000+10:30

I've seen this technique being used numerous times and I've never really given it ago. Until today. And I LOVE IT! It's a very easy technique to do. You just need some paper towels, household bleach and your stamping supplies.

On a plastic plate, place your folded paper towel, add the bleach until paper towel is wet but not soaked. Using dark coloured cardstock, stamp your images however you desire, let dry, it should take a few minutes for the bleach to finish it's process. Then finish your project. How easy is that?

Materials used for this example are Stampin' Up!® and available through me.

Cardstock - Real Red, Chocolate Chip, Very Vanilla.
Inks - Real Red, Chocolate Chip.
Ribbon - Silver Organdy.

It's been a while

2007-02-05T07:35:00.000+10:30

Hello Everyone,
I know it's been a week since I last posted. But the Chicken Pox have hit our house! My DD has finally come down with those nasty little dots. And on top of that, we're moving! YIKES! So right now I'm currently sitting here at the computer, having a cup of coffee, and trying to decide what lovely things I need to occupy my time with today.

But I promise I will post something new very soon. As soon as I can find the camera in this mountain of boxes.

I Love Masking

2007-01-29T21:04:00.000+10:30

It gives such a nice look to a very simple card. This is the card I made for a swap on OzSwap. (Best darn swapping group on the web, if I do say so myself). So if anyone in the groups looking, act surprised. lol

For this, I stamped the big flower from Delight In Life on Very Vanilla, masked it, stamped over it to the left, masked again, then stamped the flower on the right. I then masked that and stamped the French Script over the top in Chocolate Chip. After removing the masks, (the flower stamped onto copy paper, cut out, then attached with repositional adhesive) I coloured using the Pretty In Pink and Summer Sun Inkpads and a blender pen. Next was running the Chocolate Chip inkpad around the edges. And the rest you can see. I hope you like it.

All materials are Stampin' Up!® and available through me.

Why Is It??

2007-01-29T10:16:00.000+10:30

That on the last day of the holidays, your children decide that 6.30am is a wonderful time to get up and start playing. And why is it that right outside your bedroom door is the perfect place to play?

I. Am. Tired.

Cyber Challenge

2007-01-28T18:16:00.000+10:30

Ok, I never thought I'd get into this whole blogging business, I mean, who would want to know about my life right? Well, I've decided to bite the bullet and just go for it. I joined Stampin Up in October and am totally loving it, I joined a wonderful group with Jayne Mercer as my upline. And there are some very talented ladies in this group and although I sometimes feel a little overwhelmed they are a great support and very encouraging.

On Thursday night we had a cybercrop, now I've never done a cybercrop before, I've always been too scared to try but I gave it a go. Jayne put up some wonderful challenges and these are the 2 cards I came up with. First one was a sketch challenge from SCS. The 2nd was a colour combo challenge using the colours More Mustard, Ruby Red and Bravo Burgundy. And I must admit, I love these colours together.

Materials Used.
Thank You Card
Stamp Sets - French Script, Fresh Fillers, Delight In Life, Much Appreciated.
Cardstock - Very Vanilla, Old Olive, Barely Banana, Creamy Caramel.

Stripe Card
Stamp Sets - Fresh Fillers, Curvy Verses
Cardstock - More Mustard, Ruby Red, Bravo Burgundy.

All products are Stampin' Up!® and are available through me.