~Stampin' Addiction~

Tea Bag Holder

2010-06-25T09:37:00.004+09:30

Hello everyone!

I know I've been away for such a long time, and I can't promise that I'll begin to post regularly, but I hope to at least post more often than I have been. Which will also mean that I need to actually stamp...something which I have barely done in a long, long time.

At the very end of March I had a few friends over for a Mini Catalogue launch. We made two projects, and this was one of them. It's a tea bag card, but could also hold other items of a similar size. Below is the inside of the card.

Supplies:

* Rich Razzleberry cardstock, Cottage Wall Designer Series Paper.

* Cottage Garden stamp set.

* Orchid Opulence & Old Olive Markers, Basic Black stamp pad.

* Small and Large Tag Punch, Crop-a-dile & linen thread.

Wonderful...

2010-02-28T22:09:00.002+09:30

It's been a while since I posted so I thought I'd show you some of the quick cards I've made this week. This is the first set I made with the Wonderful Favourites, a set I've had for quite some time but never used.

I'm sorry about the quality of the photo, it was taken at night time and as you can see, I'm struggling with the shakes at the moment.

Supplies:

* Wonderful Favourites Stamp Set.

* Chocolate Chip Stamp Pad.

* Chocolate Chip and Whisper White Cardstock. Good Morning Sunshine DSP.

* Wide Chocolate Chip Grosgrain Ribbon.

Sale-A-Bration 2010

2010-01-26T20:11:00.004+09:30

It's that time of year again when we celebrate Sale-A-Bration. For those who are new to Stampin' Up! this is where we give you a free stamp set from our Sale-A-Bration catalogue for every $100 you spend on regular or mini catalogue purchases (excluding P&H). This year the Sale-A-Bration sets are fantastic, so please click on the picture to see the full Sale-A-Bration catalogue.

What's more, if you host a Stampin' Up! party during Sale-A-Bration and sales exceed $600, the hostess can choose a Sale-A-Bration stamp set in addition to her regular hostess benefits.

We also have a second promotion running at the moment which supports the Haitian Disaster Relief. If you purchase the I Hearts stamp set for $42.95, Stampin' Up! will donate $2 of each stamp set sale to the American Red Cross' Haiti Relief and Development Fund. For more details on this, please click on the picture below.

For more information or to place an order please contact me at jasner5@bigpond.net.au.

Stampin' Up! Inventory Sale

2009-12-14T19:50:00.004+09:30

Stampin' Up! are offering some great deals on selected stamp sets - INCLUDING SOME ALPHABETS, to make way for more inventory. Click on the above link to see the full list of items and contact me ASAP (by phone or email jasner5@bigpond.net.au - make sure you leave a return phone number or email address) to place your order if you want anything listed as stocks are strictly limited.

Also, I now have an official Stampin' Up! website which I will be updating regularly with specials etc. Check it out at http://www.stampinaddiction.stampinup.net/. There will be featured creations for you to make as well as lots, lots more. I will also update this blog a little more regularly once I have settled into my new full-time job.

Simply Swirled

2009-11-12T11:29:00.006+09:30

Recently I demonstrated a workshop for a group of new stampers..."hello Ladies". We made two cards, and the above is the second, where I showed the ladies how to use Stampin' Up! paper punches.

I love this card for several reasons, 1. it's quick to make and can be done as a one sheet wonder, 2. It maximises the use of whisper white cardstock...so it's very cost effective to make, and 3. It's simple. I hope you like this card as much as I do.

Supplies:

* Snow Swirled & Best Yet Stamp Sets.

* Whisper White, Real Red and Old Olive Cardstock.

* Real Red & Old Olive Stamp Pads.

* Scallop Edge Punch, Large Oval Punch & Scallop Oval Punch.

* Stampin' Dimensionals.

Merry Christmas

2009-10-29T14:31:00.004+09:30

Hello everyone,

Well, I'm back from the job hunt and am now employed again. I managed to score a finance position at my children's school which is very handy. What's even better, is I can have school holiday's off and I work predominantly within school hours.

Now that I'm somewhat settled again, I managed to find some time to stamp and scrapbook. I recently purchased some Nestabilities from my friend Marcia's online store, The Stamp Spot, and I love them. So, today I actually plucked up the courage to use one of the more intricate designs and use the emboss facility as well.

I hope you like today's card.

Supplies:
* Snow Swirled & Many Merry Messages Stamp Set.
* Old Olive, Whisper White & Real Red Cardstock.
* Old Olive & Real Red Ink.
* Old Olive Wide Grosgrain Ribbon. Stampin' Dimensionals & SAMJ.
* Kindy Glitz & Nestabilities.

Update

2009-10-21T13:45:00.003+09:30

Hello everyone,

I just wanted to jump on quickly and let you all know that I haven't forgotten to create, I'm just very busy until the end of the week.

As my youngest starts school next year, I've been applying for a few jobs and the time it takes to prepare resumes and address selection criteria, as you can imagine is extensive.

Please keep your fingers crossed for me though, and I'll try to post again on the weekend.

A Quick Thank You

2009-10-08T14:36:00.007+09:30

Above are some quick and easy thank you cards I recently made. I'm ashamed to say I didn't come up with this idea, I CASed it almost in it's entirety from a lady by the name of Debbie Petersen (no blog). I have changed the colour, ribbon, punch and sentiment however! The cards look great IRL due to their 3 Dimensional aspect.

Supplies:

* Fresh Cut Stamp Set.

* Kraft, Whisper White and Soft Sky Textured Cardstock.

* Large Oval Punch, Dimensionals, Mini Glue Dots & Soft Sky Ribbon.

Note: Soft Sky products are now retired.

A Different Gift Bag

2009-10-06T13:12:00.004+09:30

Hello Readers.

Well, school holiday's have finished and I'm home again from a quick trip away with the kids (hubby's been away somewhere else for work). So, I finally have a chance to post this little gift bag I made using up some scrap cardstock and DSP I had.

This project took virtually no time at all to make up, and contains a cello bag full of goodies within. Another bonus is it's stable enough to stand of it's own accord...even with the fans on as fast as they will go. They'd be great for functions or weddings and could be done with any colour scheme.

Supplies:

* Baroque Motifs & Great Friend Stamp Sets.

* Mellow Moss Textured 12x12, Mellow Moss Cardstock, Very Vanilla Cardstock & Le Jardin DSP (retired).

* Scoring blade, Cello Bag, Scallop Circle Punch, Mini Glue Dots & Very Vanilla Taffeta Ribbon.

More Fifth Avenue Floral

2009-09-29T17:12:00.005+09:30

I'm still playing with my Fifth Avenue Floral set, and today I have a card and gift I made recently for a friend of mine. This friend is a loving wife and Mother. She works full time and manages to run her household and get the kids to school on time. Anyway, I thought she could use a little something to brighten her day.

Above is the card which was inspired by a lady called Maureen (no blog), and below is the little gift box I made. Within the box is an Earl Grey Tea Bag (in a tea bag holder), a handmade Fruit Tingle candle and some chocolate eclairs. I hope she manages to take time out for herself to enjoy her gift.

Supplies:

* Fifth Avenue Floral & Best Yet Stamp Sets.

* Craft, Tangerine Tango & Whisper White Cardstock. Haiku DSP.

* Close to Cocoa, Tangerine Tango & More Mustard Stamp Pads and/or Markers.

* Mini Glue Dots, 1/1/4" & 1/3/8" Circle Punches, Scallop Punch, Tangerine Tango Grosgrain Ribbon, Small & Large Cello Bags and Linen Thread.

Fifth Avenue Floral

2009-09-25T16:54:00.003+09:30

As some of you will remember, after recieving a gift a few weeks ago which used the Fifth Avenue Floral set (thanks again Karen), I just had to rush out and buy it myself. Well, today I had a chance to play with it, and this is what I created. Again, it's another simple card, but I'm very happy with the way it turned out. As always, I hope you like this creation as well!

Supplies:

* Fifth Avenue Floral Set.

* Chocolate Chip & Very Vanilla Cardstock.

* Chocolate Chip & Baja Breeze Stamp Pads.

* SAMJ, Mask, Snail, Mini Glue Dots & 1/4" Chocolate Chip Grosgrain Ribbon.

Free Standing Pop Up Card

2009-09-21T22:15:00.006+09:30

Tonight I'd like to show you a free standing pop up card I demonstrated recently at an in home workshop. Prior to making this card, I'd never made anything like this before and I can guarantee it won't be the last time either...they were so much fun!

I obtained my inspiration from a lady called Sarah-Jane who has a lovely blog definitely worth checking out. I changed her traditional style card into the above and I love the way it turned out.

Supplies:

* Great Friend Stamp Set.

* Kraft, Whisper White, Certainly Celery & Pink Pirouette Cardstock.

* Certainly Celery, Pink Pirouette & Close to Cocoa Stamp Pads.

* 1/3/8 & 1/1/4 Circle Punch, Trimmer with scoring blade, Sticky Strip, Crop-a-dile, Pink Pirouette Grosgrain ribbon.

A Lovely Thank You Surprise

2009-09-18T14:21:00.003+09:30

How lucky am I! Last week I received this lovely little 'Thank You' package from my upline Karen who was thanking me for all the hard work and creativity I put into my Stampin' Up! business. It was quite humbling because Karen is such an inspiration to me and I think I should be the one thanking her- not the other way around!

In the parcel was a beautiful card using the Fifth Avenue Stamp Set - which I've now had to order. There was also a lovely pack of boxed note papers and a chocolate (which I ate prior to photographing but belongs with the Fabulous Friend bag topper at the front of the picture).

Thank you for this lovely gift Karen, you made my day and made me feel very special.

Bauble Christmas Tag

2009-09-16T10:19:00.004+09:30

I've been having so much fun lately now that I'm back stamping and doing workshops again. A big THANK YOU to all my hostesses, firstly for getting me back into the swing of things and secondly for reviving my love of stamping.

A recent hostess asked if we could make Christmas Tags...it is after all creeping up on that time of year again. Well, after some research and final inspiration from Laurie, I came up with this creation. Once again, there quick and easy to make...which I'm sure the ladies can attest too. I hope you like today's creation.

Supplies:

* Baroque Motifs Stamp Set.

* Kiwi Kiss & Riding Hood Red Cardstock.

* Encore Gold Stamp Pad.

* Round Tab Punch, Piercing tool, Gold Embossing Powder, Gold Brads, Crop-a-dile & Riding Hood Red Stripped Grosgrain Ribbon, Heat Tool & Sticky Strip.

* CM Circle Cutting System (Non SU product).

Thanks so Much

2009-09-14T12:34:00.002+09:30

Today I've created a Thank You card using the layout from one of my favourite blogs "Clean & Simple" (check out my side bar for the link). I hope you like today's card.

Supplies:

* Trendy Tree's Stamp Set.

* Apricot Appeal, Whisper White & Ballet Blue Cardstock. Sarah DSP (retired).

* Chocolate Chip, Ballet Blue & Apricot Appeal Stamp Pads.

* SAMJ, Stampin' Dimensionals.

Thinking of You

2009-09-10T15:59:00.003+09:30

I just have a very quick card for you today. No plan for this except that I wanted to use the paper crimper which I haven't had for very long. As for the colour scheme...I actually love Chocolate Chip and Kiwi Kiss together and find it hard to move away from when using my Trendy Tree's stamp set. I hope you like today's card.

Supplies:

* Trendy Tree's Stamp Set.

* Kiwi Kiss, Chocolate Chip and Whisper White Cardstock. Urban Garden DSP.

* Kiwi Kiss & Chocolate Chip Stamp Pads.

* Paper Crimper, 1/3/8" Circle Punch, Scallop Punch, Stampin Dimensionals, Mat Pack & SAMJ.

Another Christmas Card

2009-09-08T12:01:00.000+09:30

Last night a small group of my friends got together socially to make some Christmas cards. Although invited I was very disappointed my husband was working and I couldn't attend. Afterall, someone had to look after my children :)

So, not wanting to be left out altogether, I decided to make some Christmas cards at home using up past workshop scrap's. The above is the first card I made using a new set I've recently purchased - Snow Swirled.

This card was super simple to make and took literally 10 minutes at the most. I know my friends love simple cards and I hope they like this one too.

Supplies:

* Snow Swirled Stamp Set.

* Riding Hood Red, Kiwi Kiss & Very Vanilla Cardstock.

* Riding Hood Red & Kiwi Kiss Stamp Pad.

Fresh Cuts Christmas

2009-09-07T15:44:00.003+09:30

Just over a week ago, I demonstrated a workshop for some lovely ladies...hello ladies! One of the cards we made was the above Christmas Card which was inspired by a similar card in the Stampin' Up! 09/10 Idea Book and Catalogue.

The card itself was just so easy to make and took no time at all. I can definitely see the advantages to using the Fresh Cut Notes for that extra WOW effect, and I know the ladies who attended loved them. I hope you do too!

Supplies:

* Fresh Cuts & Snow Swirled.

* Fresh Cut Notes, Real Red and Old Olive Cardstock.

* Real Red and Old Olive Cardstock.

* Real Red Grosgrain Ribbon, SAMJ (which is a must for this project), Gold Brads, 5 Petal Punch & Sticky Strip.

Blog Candy

2009-09-06T15:01:00.004+09:30

Hello readers,

One of my SBS27 sisters - Julie is giving away some amazing blog candy this week to celebrate her 'blogaversary'. Be sure to visit her blog HERE for your chance to win. Julie's willing to post anywhere so it's well worth stopping by for a visit. She's also an amazing artist so even if you don't win the candy, you'll reap rewards anyway...just of a different nature.

Thanks Julie for your generosity and congrats on your anniversary!

To You From Me

2009-09-04T17:05:00.005+09:30

Hello readers,

I promise in my absence, I have been stamping. Unfortunately with our new computer came several new programs that I've had difficulty navigating...especially for photo's. I'm also still struggling with a few issues such as watermarking the image with the Stampin' Up! copyright. However I do have a disclaimer on my blog, so I hope this will suffice for the time being.

Moving on, the above card I recently created for a friend who's celebrating a birthday. Although she hasn't seen it yet, I feel safe posting it for your enjoyment now as she doesn't check my blog. I've used a lovely DSP from our new Spring Mini catalogue. This DSP called Parisian Breeze is a specialty paper that is extra thick and textured. I love it!

Supplies:

* Baja Breeze & Whisper White Cardstock. Parisian Breeze Specialty DSP.

* Best Yet Stamp Set (Level 1 Hostess Set)

* Baja Breeze Stripped Grosgrain, 1/3/8" Circle Punch, Scallop Circle Punch, Mini Glue Dots & Stampin' Dimensionals.

I'm Back

2009-08-19T18:33:00.002+09:30

Hello everyone,

Well, although I didn't publicise it, I'm now back from a lovely holiday to Kununurra, Broome, Port Headland, Carnarvon, Monkey Mia, Perth, Kalgoorlie, the Nullabor, Port Augusta, Coober Pedy, Ayers Rock and Alice Springs...some 12,000km of driving.

On top of this we received our new computer today so I can once again post on my blog once I've installed my camera software. I've a few creations to show you, so check back in a few days for some recent work I've done and some more regular posts. Before I go however, thank you all for your lovely comments and for being patient with my technological woes.

Nerine

Big Bold Birthday

2009-07-20T11:41:00.007+09:30

Hi everyone,

I just thought I'd pop in quickly to post one of the cards I made recently. I've taken the colour scheme from a card made by Julie Davidson and I've used the Big Bold Birthday stamp set for the image. I hope you like this little (and quick) creation.

Soon school holidays will be over and I'll have my new computer to replace my current one (which is very temperamental and dodgy) which will allow me to post more consistently. So keep tuned, I will return with more creations when I can.

Supplies:
* Big Bold Birthday Stamp Set.
* Taken with Teal, So Saffron, Whisper White & Gable Green Cardstock.
* Taken with Teal & So Saffron Stamp Pads.
* Scallop Edge Punch.

Cheers to Fella

2009-06-25T13:15:00.005+09:30

Wow, two posts in as many day's from me, it must be that Jas is away (and currently not a distraction :)) and I've decided to take some time out for myself instead of picking up and cleaning after everyone else. Either way, I've had a great day stamping and not cleaning ;)

Men's cards are particularly hard to make, but I have to admit, this one came together so easily and I'm really happy with the end result. I've paper-pieced my fella's shirt using the same decorative paper that I've used to back the image and sentiment. To colour my fella, I've used a blender pen with ink which gives a subtler effect than markers. My colours have been chosen because of their masculine qualities more than anything else.

Normally I'd list my supplies here, but I'd prefer to post today instead of getting into the nitty gritty of things. If you need more info just let me know and I'll get back to you, but the products I've used are from Bella Stamps, Stampin' Up! and Creative Memories. Don't they all just compliment each other so nicely!

Happy Tree's

2009-06-24T10:12:00.002+09:30

Today I decided to alter a little hard covered index book I had. I really wanted to use up some scrap pieces of cardstock, and some retired DSP which I've had for a few years now. I also knew I wanted to make the 'grass' around the tree as 3D as I possibly could. To enhance this effect, I've then also faux embossed the main image. I hope you like today's creation which I've made for a friend.

Supplies:

* Trendy Trees & Warm Words Stamp Sets.

* Close to Cocoa, Mellow Moss and Brocade Blue Stamp Pads.

* Whisper White, Bashful Blue & Mellow Moss Cardstock. Pool Party DSP (retired).

* Bashful Blue Striped Grosgrain Ribbon.

Trendy Trees

2009-06-02T14:12:00.004+09:30

I know the 09/10 Idea Book and Catalogue has been out now for just over two months, but one of the sets I knew I had to have was Trendy Tree's. However, as I'm more of a hobby demo who does the occasional workshop, this set had to wait until my second order...sigh! I have it now though, which means I can post something that doesn't include Pocket Silhouettes!

To kick off my stamping with this set, I thought I'd start with a really simple card using natural colours. To add a little something, I've pierced the top and the bottom of the Kraft cardstock just to break up the layout a little.

Supplies:
* Trendy Trees Stamp Set.
* Kraft, Whisper White, Chocolate Chip and Kiwi Kiss Cardstock.
* Chocolate Chip & Kiwi Kiss Stamp Pads.
* Mat Pack & Piercing Tool.

Clean & Simple Layout

2009-05-20T13:55:00.003+09:30

Hello Readers,

I always get so excited when I find a new blog that has, what I think is a similar stamping style to my own. Thanks to one of my SBS#27 sisters (Hello Heather) I have found the Clean & Simple Stamping blogspot. Above is my contribution to their FTL#41 Layout Challenge.

I'm going to add the Clean & Simple Stamping blogspot to my favourites list as well as my "other blogs I visit" section to the right of this post. Their creations are amazing and just like their name, everything is just so simple while still very eye catching.

Supplies:
* Garden Whimsy Stamp Set.
* Whisper White and Red Riding Hood Cardstock.
* Red Riding Hood Stamp Pad.
* 3/8" Old Olive Grosgrain Ribbon & SAMJ.

Friend to Friend

2009-05-18T13:06:00.003+09:30

I recently participated in a card swap with some lovely Stampin' Up! demonstrators. The rules of the swap were:

1. Use at least 1 DSP

2. Use at least 1 In Colour

3. Use at least 1 Stamp Set that is new to the 09/10 IB&C.

The above is my contribution and again, I've used my favourite Pocket Silhouette's. I've steered clear of colours that I'd normally use and really stepped out of my comfort zone for this creation. I'm really happy with the way it turned out and my only regret is that I didn't have the eyelet boarder punch to use in lieu of the scallop boarder punch.

Supplies:

* Pocket Silhouette's Stamp Set.

* Night of Navy, Tangerine Tango, Whisper White Cardstock & Urban Garden DSP.

* Night of Navy & Pumpkin Pie Stamp Pads.

* Piercing Tool, Scallop Boarder Punch, SAMJ & SNAIL.

Friend to Friend & Late Tuesday Challenge.

2009-04-29T12:45:00.006+09:30

Here's another of the cards I churned out on Sunday night when I was 'in the mood' to stamp. We all know I love single layer cards, and I have to say, I'm really happy with this. The scoring along the bottom of this card really finishes it off.

So, as I missed a layout challenge yesterday I thought I might challenge you all today to make a card using scoring as an embellishment. The layout can be what ever you want it to be, just so long as there's scoring on the card front somewhere. To score my card, I've used my fiskers trimmer with the scoring blade, however this effect can just as easily be created using a bone folder and ruler. Have fun!

Supplies:

* Pocket Silhouettes Stamp Set.

* Kiwi Kiss Stamp Pad.

* Whisper White Cardstock.

* Fiskers Trimmer & Scoring Blade.

The Spreader of Love Award

2009-04-28T20:49:00.003+09:30

Thank you to Tabitha for this lovely award which she gave to me a while ago, but I missed it in my blog surfing (opps!). All I have to do for this award is pass it on to some lovely people who often leave comments on my blog. It's kinda a thank you for stopping by and letting me know your thoughts. So, here goes:

Marcia: Who often pops in to say hello and who's blog is absolutely awesome. Marcia's such an inspiration to me...thank you!

Chrissie: Who again often pops in to say hello and to see what I've been up too. Chrissie's work is amazing and I especially like all the little things she makes at Christmas and Easter time for all the children she teaches.

Natasha: My lovely sister demo who lives just down the road. I love Natasha's stamping style and she constantly amazes me with her wonderful creations.

Leah: Has a lovely blog and updates is regularly. I love seeing what she's done with all the challenges she participates in as her work is fantastic.

Thank you for all the lovely work you do ladies you all keep me inspired and trying to do my very best work. I hope you enjoy your award.

Because I Care

2009-04-27T10:51:00.004+09:30

Hello readers,

I know I've been away for a while, and for those of you who check my blog daily - I'm sorry. I've been in a stamping slump for a while now and have not been enjoying the hobby half as much as I used too. So, I decided to take a break, read a few books and do some sewing instead.

I've also been experiencing what a friend of mine calls "the post holiday blues". I don't think I realised why I was so melancholy though until I was speaking with her at the Anzac Day March. Instead I just thought that I was down because of my environment - location, bat problem, the fact that I want to move closer to family etc.

Anyway, I've decided to help myself and my mood somewhat by stamping when I feel like it - not because I have too. I've also decided to partake in other crafts and amusements I used to enjoy before stamping so totally dominated my life.

Last night, I wanted to stamp. I've had new products to play with for almost two weeks and hadn't even mounted the stamps or played with the other items up until yesterday. I found myself stamping a lot with one of the new in colours - Kiwi Kiss, which I love more than Groovy Guava!

Today I have for you a Love Note which I've decorated simply by stamping and using a little satin ribbon. I hope you like today's basic card.

Supplies:

* Stem Silhouette's & Best Yet Stamp Sets.

* Kiwi Kiss & Chocolate Chip Stamp Pads.

* Very Vanilla Love Note & Envelope.

* SAMJ & Kiwi Kiss Satin Ribbon.

Something Yummy Made with Honey

2009-04-15T16:09:00.003+09:30

This afternoon I decided to bake. It's been a while since I turned the oven on as we've been away on holiday, then on our return I discovered our dishwasher was broken. So naturally I've been trying to keep the hand washing to a minimum, which meant that 'cooking for leisure' was out...LOL!

Keeping in mind I still have no dishwasher I wanted to make something tasty, quick and something that used the least amount of dishes. So, I pulled out my old favourites cookbook and settled on Honey Joy's. At least that's what my Mother always called them. As a surprise for the kids and Jason tomorrow in their lunch boxes, I also decorated their packaging. I hope you like today's off the page idea.

Recipe:

4 Cups of Cornflakes

90 grams of butter

1 Tbsp of Honey

1/3 cup Caster Sugar.

Method:

Place butter, honey and sugar in a saucepan. Over low heat stir til the butter melts and the sugar dissolves. Pour liquid over the cornflakes and mix well making sure all cornflakes are covered in honey mixture. Place in a 150 degree Celsius oven for approx 10 minutes or until golden and brown. Cool on wire rack.

Supplies:

* Yummy SAB Stamp Set.

* Pale Plum and Whisper White Cardstock.

* Basic Black Stamp Pad. Pale Plum Marker.

* Prima Flowers & Kindy Glitz.

Embrace a CASE (Copy and Share EVERYTHING)

2009-04-14T12:29:00.018+09:30

Here we are at another Tuesday layout challenge and I'm rearing to go again now I'm refreshed from my break away from blogging and stamping.

In saying that, I had every good intention of making something today to show you all, but I was side-tracked playing with Master 3 up until he went to preschool this afternoon. So, as a result, I'm going to hi-jack a layout swap I participated in recently and post my contribution to same.

Lovely Marcia from The Stamp Spot recently invited me to participate in a 'layout' card swap. I just LOVE Marcia's work and couldn't resist taking the chance to be involved with this swap. Her layout was simple and easy to use. I've taken Marcia's layout for today's challenge and made one small alteration. For today's layout challenge please find the below sketch. You'll note that there's no sentiment as such and it's because I'd like you to decide where you'd like to put your sentiment. It can be anywhere on this layout, just so long as we can see it as well as the main 'focal' point of the design.

And here's my example, which is the card I made for Marcia's original layout swap - Incidentally Marcia, I pinched this photo off your blog :)

To see the great creations other participants contributed to this swap please click HERE. Alternatively, to see more of Marcia's great work, you can visit her blog by clicking any of the hyperlinks in this post, or I've got her in my list of blogs I visit on the right.

Supplies:

* Embrace Life Stamp Set (Available in the new 09/10 Idea Book & Catalogue)

* Whisper White, Tempting Turquoise, Pumpkin Pie, Old Olive and Elegant Eggplant Cardstock.

* Whisper White, Tempting Turquoise, Pumpkin Pie, Old Olive and Elegant Eggplant Stamp Pads.

* Word Window Punch.

Moving on to what you've all been up too in my absence. I've received a couple of emails from friends and readers showing me what you've been doing for the layouts I've shared while on holidays. so, in no particular order, here they all are:

Natasha:

Karen:

Kathryn:

Leah:

Trish:

Chook:

Sharon:

Thank you everyone for playing along while I've been away, you've all done some amazing things with the layouts I've created, and they all look so different. I can't wait to see what you come up with for this weeks challenge.

Back Again

2009-04-13T09:28:00.005+09:30

Hello everyone,

I just wanted to pop in for a few minutes to let you all know that I'm back home from holiday's and of course, my sister's wedding. I wanted to share a quick photo (or two) with you. The first photo was taken at my parent's home on the morning of Bronwyn's wedding. The other bridesmaid in the photo is my sister Jillian. Mum specifically wanted this photo of her three girls together and I have to say, I think it's a beautie...not to mention the fact that my sisters look absolutely stunning!

And here's Jas and the kids dancing up a storm to the Nut-Bush at the reception.

I'll be back tomorrow with another layout challenge (I'm enjoying another day off today since it's a public holiday), so until then...

Tuesday Layout Challenge

2009-03-31T19:57:00.003+09:30

Hi everyone,

Well, I thought while I was away helping with my sister's wedding, I'd have a chance to stamp something for today's layout challenge. Unfortunately, everything has been so hectic, not only have I not been able to raid my Mother's stamping supplies to create something, I've also got no ability to photograph something and download it on my parent's computer (they don't have a multi-drive reader).

So, today I've simply created a design for you all to play with over the next week, and here it is:

I've also published every one's comment's/creations from last week in last weeks post for you all to look at and admire.

So, until next week, have fun.

Away

2009-03-25T14:02:00.002+09:30

Hello everyone,

I just wanted to jump in quickly to let you all know I won't be able to post as much as I usually do over the next two weeks. My sister is getting married so were all rather busy with last minute preparations.

I will still be posting the Tuesday Challenges however, and will try to jump on to show you all what everyone else has been up too. If I run out of time, I promise, I'll show you all every one's creations when things settle down.

So, cyber hugs to you all, and I look forward to checking in to see what you've done each Tuesday.

Nerine

Just for You

2009-03-24T13:36:00.006+09:30

Have I said already that I LOVE the new catalogue...Yes, well, I'm saying it again!!! I personally think it's heaps better than the current one and just to show you what I mean, I have a sneak preview for you of a hostess set. I'm not going to tell you anymore about it, but I hope you think it's as stunning as I do.

First things first however, and today being Tuesday, it's time for another layout. So, here it is:

And my example:

Supplies:

* Hostess set from the 09/10 Idea Book and Catalogue. Linen Background Stamp (retiring).

* Almost Amethyst Cardstock & Watercolour Paper.

* Almost Amethyst & Stazon Stamp Pads.

* Aqua Painter, Watercolour Wonder Crayons, Pretties Kit, 5/8" Very Vanilla Grosgrain Ribbon & Cherished Memories Rub Ons.

I've just checked and everyone must have either been busy last week or you didn't like my layout cause I've no creations to show you - although another theory is that your all keeping secrets from me...LOL! Anyway, I hope you all like this weeks layout and it's not too difficult to work with. Until next time, happy stamping.

I'm So Glad There's You

2009-03-23T21:21:00.004+09:30

Today was very exciting for me, I received a copy of the new Stampin' Up! catalogue which is to be released in just over a week. I can tell you I am in LOVE with so many of the new products, and my wish list is almost as long as my arm. Luckily, the Level one hostess sets are fantastic so I don't need to pop in a huge order for myself to get a level two or three stamp set.

Moving on, I really liked the above card which I've somewhat cased from the stamp sample for Close as a Memory in the new Catalogue. There are some things I have changed but you'll have to wait to find out what.

Supplies:

* Close as a Memory Stamp Set.

* Kraft, Very Vanilla, Mellow Moss and Whisper White Cardstock. So Saffron DSP.

* Cherished Memories Rub On's & 5/8" Very Vanilla Grosgrain Ribbon. Soft Subtles & Rich Regals Markers. On Board Lot's of Letters.

Let's Play

2009-03-20T10:50:00.002+09:30

Earlier in the week, I promised to show you a basic stamped scrapbook page that I'd done recently at a workshop. Well, here it is and doesn't it look great! The group of ladies that made this page were all very new to stamping, however were seasoned scrapbookers. The hostess liked a page she'd seen in a Stampin' Techniques booklet which used Bold Brights and the Bugs and Kisses stamp set.

Unfortunately I didn't own the Bugs and Kisses Stamp Set, so, I made use of the Wild About You set instead. I also completely changed the original layout, but kept with the bold brights colour scheme and added some Earth Elements. Using Bold Brights isn't my forte, but I really like this page and (I hope I don't sound too full of myself here) I'm very happy with how it turned out.

Supplies:

* Wild About You & Big Deal Alphabet Stamp Sets.

* Whisper White, Tempting Turquoise, Real Red, Summer Sun & Old Olive Cardstock.

* Tempting Turquoise, Real Red, Summer Sun & Old Olive Stamp Pads.

Spring Butterfly

2009-03-19T16:08:00.003+09:30

Unfortunately we don't have a 'Spring' as such in the tropics, however with the beginning of the dry season we have butterflies flitting about everywhere of a day. There beautiful to watch and Master 3 is enraptured by the way they frolic with each other whilst flying.

Today I have for you a Gable Fold card which is such an easy card to make. The card opens from the centre and the focal image is held in place [in this case] with a stamped flower. I've used the Bold Butterfly stamp set which is retiring in a few weeks as well as the Spring Fling DSP.

Supplies:

* Bold Butterfly Stamp Set.

* Pretty in Pink & Whisper White Cardstock. Spring Fling DSP.

* Pretty in Pink Stamp Pad.

* Soft Subtles Brads & Kindy Glitz because I was too lazy to get out my glue pen and dazzling diamonds.

Easter Bag

2009-03-18T15:45:00.006+09:30

I'm so glad I've only got just over a week til I'm on holidays. I think the break from stamping and blogging is going to do me the world of good as I'm starting to lack enthusiasm with regards to stamping. That's not to say that I don't enjoy it, just that lately I seem to be doing nothing for myself.

The reason I'm telling you this is because once again I have a very quick and easy off the page creation to show you today. I obtained the template from the SU demonstrator website, printed it onto some DSP, cut out as directed and adhered together. Simple! I've used rub ons for the circle tag. This bag would be so cute filled with Easter eggs and given as an Easter gift.

Supplies:
* Spring Fling DSP.
* Certainly Celery Cardstock.
* Cherished Memories Rub Ons, White Organdy Ribbon (retired), Gold Cord (retired) & Crop-A-Dile.

Friendship Abounds

2009-03-17T14:25:00.006+09:30

I love the blossoms abound stamp set and although I don't use it a lot, I love the way it demonstrates two step stamping in all it's glory. So, today for our layout challenge, I thought I'd use this set in my demonstration card. Below you'll find the layout sketch:

And here's my example:

Supplies:
* Blossoms Abound Stamp Set.
* Old Olive, Apricot Appeal, & Pumpkin Pie Stamp pads.
* Old Olive, Apricot Appeal, Pumpkin Pie and Whisper White Cardstock.
* SAMJ, Old Olive Wide Grosgrain Ribbon & Sponges.
* Cuttlebug 'Swirls' embossing Folder & Sizzix Machine.

Good Luck and I hope you all have fun this week.

With regards to last weeks challenge, again I was shown some fantastic cards which were made by you all. Thank you for playing along, you all keep me inspired from week to week, and on the day's when I wonder if I'd be missed, you keep me blogging. As usual, if you'd like more information on any of the below cards or their artist, please click on the actual card picture and a hyperlink will take you through to their blog.

Leah:

Trish:

Another Artfully Asian

2009-03-16T17:57:00.005+09:30

On the weekend I demonstrated a SU workshop to a group of ladies who are new to stamping. We created a scrapbook page as well as a quick and easy card made using supplies from my hoard of scraps. I'll show you the scrapbook page later in the week, but today I wanted to show you the easy and quick card we made. We specifically used scraps on the card as I think it's a great way to use up scrapbooking 'remnants', and as the ladies are scrapbookers, I think it's a great way to cross them to the 'dark' side...LOL!

The card above is one of the projects we made. I decided to use the Artfully Asian set again as I want to get as much use out of it before it retires. I've taken the colours not only out of my scrap pile but also from a Petal Prints card on Leah's Blog. I hope you like today's creation.

Supplies:

* Artfully Asian & Occasions Stamp Set.

* Chocolate Chip & Craft White Stamp Pads.

* Chocolate Chip, Whisper White & Mellow Moss Cardstock.

* Chocolate Chip Wide Grosgrain Ribbon. Soft Subtles and Earth Elements Stampin' Write Markers.

A Short Break

2009-03-12T17:12:00.004+09:30

Hi everyone,

Just thought I'd quickly pop in to say that with DH coming home tomorrow after a few weeks away, I won't be posting anything today or tomorrow as I want to 1. get the house in order and 2. put together his new 'surprise' and welcome home BBQ so it's ready to use tomorrow night. The house shouldn't be a problem, but the BBQ may be a little more time (and skill) consuming.

I'll be back Monday though with a Monday Madness card.

Cheers,
Nerine

Leah's Colour Challenge #6

2009-03-11T20:02:00.003+09:30

I made time today to participate in Leah's Colour Challenge #6. I won't enter as I didn't make a card or scrapbook page, but I wanted to play along not only for a bit of fun, but to also support Leah and her wonderful blog.

Today I covered a notepad. It is similar to covering post it notes, only on a larger scale. I also coloured a pretty flower with re-inkers and have used a mellow moss button from the retiring Soft Subtles Button range.

I wasn't too sure of this cover to begin with, but the more I look at it, the more I like it. The coloured flowers are easily the focal point while the rest of the background blends nicely together without being over-powering.

Supplies:

* Garden Whimsy Stamp Set.

* Sahara Sand, Chocolate Chip and Whisper White Cardstock.

* VersaMark Stamp Pad.

* Soft Subtles & Bold Brights Markers.

* Chocolate Chip Re-Inker, Soft Subtles Buttons (retiring)

Another Bella

2009-03-10T22:43:00.009+09:30

It seems that since becoming an at home Mum, my life has become ten times more hectic. So, for the second week in a row, I'm late posting Tuesday's layout challenge. So, with no drum roll, please find following today's (or should I say tonight's) layout challenge.

And here's my example:

Don't forget, if you would like me to post your creation using this weeks layout, please leave me a comment with a link to your card in this post. Alternatively, feel free to email me a picture of your card or scrapbook page at jasner5@bigpond.net.au. This way I can find every one's entries easily and (hopefully) not miss anyone.

Supplies:

* i-wish-i-looked-so-good-on-a-bike-ABELLA Stamp.

* Going Grey & Whisper White Cardstock. Deja Views Alpha Blocks.

* Basic Black Stamp Pad.

* Stampin' Pastels, Blenda Pen & Basic Grey Taffeta Ribbon.

And now for some beautiful creations made by some very talented ladies using last weeks layout. As usual, if these ladies have a blog, if you just click on the picture a hyperlink will take you through to their blog where you can see more of their fantastic art.

Karen

Leah

Natasha

Trish

I'll be back tomorrow with an off the page project. I'm hoping to use Leah's monthly challenge #6 as my inspiration. If you have a chance, pop over to Leah's blog to check out her monthly inspiration challenge and if you can, play along. You'll be glad you did!

Artfully Asian - Thank You

2009-03-09T10:15:00.000+09:30

Last week, a friend asked me to make a few cards using the Artfully Asian set as she had noticed it on the retiring list. I thought it would be a great idea as I too, will miss this set, and of course, how easy it is to use and demo. In saying this, although I can no longer use it in demonstrations, I'm sure it will make re-appearances on my blog and in my personal cards and stationary. I'm not quite ready to let it go yet!

So, today that's exactly what I have for you. A simple card made using the Artfully Asian set. I've gone out of my way to use colours I wouldn't normally use, and that people wouldn't normally associate with this delicate set. I'm saying this too try to make myself sound good...but the truth of the matter is, I wanted to use the Pumpkin Pie Stripped Grosgrain for the first time. I really like this card though, it grabs the eye and is quite striking in real life. The photo doesn't do it justice and please ignore the Skype and normal phones in the background...I wanted to get this loaded ASAP for you all to see.

Supplies:

* Artfully Asian Stamp Set (Retiring).

* Pumpkin Pie & Whisper White Cardstock.

* Pumpkin Pie & Basic Black Stamp Pads.

* Earth Elements Markers, Scallop Edge Punch & Pumpkin Pie Stripped Grosgrain Ribbon.

Aussie GP Winners @ Dreamworld

2009-03-06T20:35:00.003+09:30

While on holidays over the new year, my family and I flew to Brisbane to visit relatives. While there, we made time to visit Dreamworld, which up until New Years Eve was the only theme park on the Gold Coast we'd not visited.

It was a great day, and one of the things the kids wanted to do was have their photo taken on the Mick Doohan Repsol Motorbike display. Well, not wanting to take three photo's at (I think) $24.95 each, we threw all three of the children on the bike at the same time from shortest to tallest. What resulted was a great photo even if Master 6 was uncooperative because he had to share the lime light.

As the photo is so large and busy, I've kept this layout very simple. I've taken the colour scheme from the bike itself and I've cut out a Dreamworld emblem from the cover this photo was given to us in. The stickers are from my old Creative Memories stash but match beautifully. I've also incorporated another retiring set across the torn header focal point. I hope you like today's layout.

Supplies:
* Carte Postale Stamp Set.
* Real Red & Summer Sun Cardstock.
* Summer Sun Stamp Pad.
* CM Black Page and stickers.

Stampin' Up! Bushfire Appeal Update

2009-03-06T11:44:00.004+09:30

I'm in the process of organising myself to post today's scrapbook page, but in the meantime, I wanted to give everyone an update on Stampin' Up!s Victorian Bushfire Appeal.

As of yesterday, Stampin' Up! has raised $58,131.68 from the sale of selected stamp sets which will be donated to the Victorian Bushfire Appeal.

This promotion runs until the end of March, so if you'd like to contribute, please click HERE for further details and participating stamp sets. If you'd like to place an order, please contact me ASAP at jasner5@bigpond.net.au making sure you leave your return details in the email narrative.

My Teeth Hurt

2009-03-05T15:13:00.004+09:30

Hello everyone.

Normally I'd post a technique today, but I went to the dentist this morning and my teeth/gums have been hurting quite badly since. So, I'm going to take some more Neurophen and possibly some panadol as well and lay down for a while. If they stop hurting I'll create something for you this evening, but if they don't, I'll have to miss today's creation.

Sorry if I've disappointed anyone. If you need some creative inspiration in my absence, please blog hop on any of the very worth while blogs I've tabled to the right of my blog.

Waiting for the Easter Eggs

2009-03-04T21:43:00.003+09:30

Evening everyone!

I've wanted to make one of these little 'fries' containers for a while now and thought, with Easter on it's way it would make a cute egg holder. I was right, although, now I need to wait for the Easter Bunny to leave some surprises inside for me.

This was so easy to make. All I had to do was print the template from the Australian Stampin' Up! demonstrator website onto some cardstock, cut it out and decorate it as I saw fit. I've also used "A Good Egg" stamp set which I've only had a short time.

Supplies:

* A Good Egg Stamp Set.

* So Saffron & Regal Rose Cardstock. Spring Fling DSP (Retiring) and Watercolour Wonder Paper.

* Watercolour Wonder Crayons, Aqua Painter, 1/3/8" Circle Punch, Scallop Circle Punch & Crimper.

Beautiful Love

2009-03-03T21:21:00.005+09:30

I'm so sorry I'm posting late today. I'm afraid I've been lacking inspiration and had difficulty coming up with a card for today's challenge. So, I've kept it simple (always the way to go when the going gets tough) added some stitching and have also incorporated another retiring set. I hope you like today's card and can manage to find some time to play along with this weeks challenge.

Here's today's layout challenge:

Here's my example:

Supplies:

* Beautiful Life Stamp Set (Retiring)

* Old Olive, Bordering Blue and Whisper White Cardstock. So Saffron DSP (retired from the 6x6 sample pack promotion).

* Old Olive & Bordering Blue Stamp Pads. Old Olive Marker.

* Mat Pack, Piercing Tool & some embroidery thread.

Layout Challenge Creations

2009-03-03T13:54:00.007+09:30

I'm running a little late with my creation and of course today's layout challenge. So, I thought to get the ball rolling I'd show you some creations from last week's challenge that some ladies have completed.

This week, everyone seems to have really enjoyed the basic layout and the cards that were made are AMAZING. As usual, if you'd like more info on each card please click on the picture and a hyperlink will carry you through to the artists blog should they have one. I'll be back a little later with today's layout challenge and my example.

Leah

Natasha

Karen

Make a Wish

2009-03-02T16:23:00.003+09:30

Wow, what a busy week I've had. First on Thursday the family and I went to Darwin for a few days. When we returned home, I had to prepare for Master Seven's "boys only" birthday party followed by a BBQ dinner with a few friends. Then, on Sunday I demonstrated Stampin' Up! to a wonderful group of ladies (Hello Ladies {waving}) who all enjoy stamping as much as I do.

Today's card is one of the cards we made during the demonstration and incorporates Stampin' Ups Tearing Edge. I love this layout because of it's simplicity and it's a great starting point for beginner stampers. Also, it can be reproduced so many times in different colours, images etc that each card you make using this layout will look completely different. I hope you like today's card.

Supplies:

* In the Spotlight & So Many Sayings Hostess Sets (retiring).

* Night of Navy, Really Rust, Garden Green & Whisper White Cardstock.

* Night of Navy, Really Rust and Garden Green Stamp Pads.

* Window Word Punch & Tearing Edge.

The Retiring List is HERE

2009-03-01T09:00:00.004+09:30

Hello Everyone,

I'm so excited to tell you all that the 2008/2009 Australian SU Retiring list has now been released. You can find it HERE. As usual I'm despondent over what's retiring, and excited about the possibilities of what's going to replace these items in the new catalogue come 1st April, 2009.

If there's anything you want please be quick to either email me (jasner5@bigpond.net.au) or ring me 0428 647 685 your order as these items are available on a "While Stocks Last" basis. With up to 50% off selected merchandise, items are sure to go super quickly.

From tomorrow, I'll start showing you different creations using items from the retiring list so you can see them 'in action' and to give them a fitting farewell.

Until tomorrow,
Nerine

Let's Ride

2009-02-27T12:52:00.000+09:30

Even though my daughter races Moto-X, I still believe she's quite the little lady and I wanted this page to reflect that. These photo's were taken when she moved to an actual race bike from a Pee Wee 50. This was her first race on that much faster (and noisier) bike.

As this page is one I've created for my own personal albums (well, actually I've made it for her album), I've used a combination of Stampin' Up! and Creative Memories products. I hope you like today's page.

Supplies:

* Big Deal Alphabet Stamp Set.

* Close to Cocoa Stamp Pad & Re-Inker.

* Pretties Kit & Antique Brass Hodge Podge.

* CM Wavy 12" Cutter. CM Papers (unknown from which pack).

* Sizzix & Lollipop Alphabet.

Split Love

2009-02-26T12:42:00.000+09:30

I know it's a terribly bad heading, but the technique I'm showing you today is called 'Split Negative' and I just happen to have displayed it on a love heart. I'm not exactly how to describe this technique in words - especially when the picture shows it so well.

Basically, what I've done is stamped two images. On the first image, I've chosen one colour cardstock and another colour ink. Then, with the second stamped image, I've simply reversed those colours. The stamped images are then cut in half, and lined up perfectly to create the whole image again using half of the first stamped image and half of the second stamped image.

Supplies:

* Always & So Many Sayings Stamp Sets.

* Whisper White Craft Stamp Pad & Purely Pomegranate Stamp Pad.

* Whisper White & Purely Pomegranate Cardstock. Love Note in Whisper White.

* Purely Pomegranate Satin Ribbon.

Pretty Post It Notes

2009-02-25T12:23:00.000+09:30

I have always enjoyed making pretty little covers for my post it notes. There great for giveaway's and I love keeping one in my handbag for times when I need a piece of paper while I'm out and about. There also very quick and easy to make, which for me, is a bonus as my attention span can, at times be rather short.

Today I'd like to show you this cute little post it note holder I made on the weekend. I had recently received the Spring Fling DSP pack and wanted to make the most of it and my square scallop punch. I hope you like today's project.

Supplies:

* It's all Good Stamp Set.

* So Saffron and Whisper White Cardstock.

* Regal Rose Stamp Pad.

* Regal Rose5/8" Grosgrain Ribbon.

Happy Birthday My Little Man

2009-02-24T11:24:00.008+09:30

Yesterday my eldest son celebrated his 7th Birthday. Although I made a card for him, I don't think he even looked at it once he opened his present to reveal what he'd "always wanted"...a blue Ipod which we had to charge and download music to ASAP.

I really liked the brightness of the card and the simple geometric design which I obtained from the demonstrators Web Site of Stampin' Up! Also, being so simple, I thought it would be quick and easy for everyone to play along with if they wished. So, below is this week's layout challenge:

Here is my example:

Supplies:

* Birthday Whimsy (SAB 08 Set) & Wild About You Stamp Sets.

* Real Red, Whisper White, Brocade Blue Cardstock.

* Certainly Celery & Brocade Blue Stamp Pads.

* SAMJ, Certainly Celery 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon and Bold Brights Brads.

Moving on to last weeks layout challenge, I hope you all had fun with that one! There were some lovely cards designed with this layout that I'd now like to show you. As always, if you'd like more info on the card or the artist, simply click on the photo and a hyperlink will take you through to the artists blog. These blogs are DEFINITELY worth checking out as the ladies are extremely talented!

Marcia:

Leah:

If I've missed any one's cards, please let me know ASAP so I can add you to this post. For those wishing to have their cards showcased next week for this weeks layout, please leave a post in the comments for this post as well so I can find your entries easily. Thanks.

Gratitude & Attitude Award

2009-02-24T10:52:00.003+09:30

Thanks to Nikki at Little Ted Cards who thinks I'm deserving of this cute little lemonade stand award for Blog Gratitude/Attitude.

I created my blog for my friends and family to see what I've been doing and to also gain inspiration from my work. I'm always amazed at how many people visit my blog, and I'm humbled that people out there think my work worthy of blog awards.

In accepting this award, I've agreed to pass it on to five other bloggers I'm grateful too. Here they are:

Marcia - Whose blog I visit almost every day to see what she's been up too, and who started me on the Bella road when I saw some of her work and said to myself "I want that..."

Chrissie - For always making me smile with your posts. Your an inspiration and I love visiting your blog and seeing what you've been up too.

Natahsa - For having such a wonderful blog which I love visiting and for being the only person I'm guaranteed to bump into in Woolworths when I go shopping....LOL!

Kellie - My new blog friend. I check for your posts daily and love your work. Have also fallen in love with 'the soap dish' as much as you have and am now awaiting my second shipment to arrive. Add to this I made my first batch of hand made soap yesterday. You've opened my eyes and now I need more craft storage space for my new hobby :)

Sharon - My second level up line who's just started a lovely blog. I hope you have as much fun as I do showing us all your creations and thank you for showing me the world of Stampin' Up! two years ago.

An Embossed Birthday Wish

2009-02-23T10:19:00.004+09:30

Hello readers,

I'm back again after a few days of chaos at my home. It began with blogger playing up on me on Thursday, and a BBQ to get ready for on Friday preventing me from updating my blog. Then, over the weekend, DH has managed to come down with some illness - and we all know how pathetic men are when they get sick. If that wasn't enough, to top things all off, my washing machine also decided to completely die...and it didn't do it quietly or have the decency to finish the load that was washing either!

However, after all of this, I have a weeks work of posts ready to show you. I'm going to be creating all the posts tonight and setting them to automatically publish so, if you'd like your take on last Tuesday's layout challenge card showcased on my blog, please email me a picture or post a link before 7pm CST so I can add it to the post.

Now to today's post. On the weekend I demonstrated a workshop where the hostess asked to be shown heat embossing. I love heat embossing and designed two cards showing different embossing techniques. All the girls loved their creations, and this was my example of the first card we did. I've kept it very simple as many of the ladies attending had never heat embossed and I didn't want to frighten them off...LOL!

Supplies:
* Baroque Motifs & Sincere Salutations Stamp Sets.
* Whisper White & Taken with Teal Cardstock.
* Encore Gold and Taken With Teal Stamp Pads.
* White 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon, Gold Embossing Powder & Mat Pack with Piercing Tool.

Virtual Night Cards & Winner

2009-02-18T21:31:00.007+09:30

Congratulations to Natasha M who was the only person to send me entries into my virtual night challenges. Your cards (as always) were gorgeous and I've posted them below for everyone to see.

For those of you who don't know, Natasha is my sister Stampin' Up! demo...we have the same upline. Originally I had decided to hand out a hostess stamp set and some other SU product as prizes, but as Natasha is a demonstrator, I know she already has the stamp set and other goodies which I was going to offer.

Today I thought I'd make her a few things she can use and pop them into one of my decorated strawberry punnet containers. Moving on, I've decided to steer away from the majority of Stampin' Up! product as Natasha has access to the same items I do (and probably already has them). I decided to pop together a little 'Bella' pack with some Heidi Swapp and Bumble Bee embellishments. Here's the picture of it all:

So, as the photo isn't the greatest, here's what you've got coming your way Tash:

* Thank you Card featured two weeks ago.
* 4 x Stamping Bella Images for you to colour as you see fit.
* Packet of Heidi Swapp Rhinestone flowers.
* Packet of Pastel Square Decorative Paper Clips.
* Packet of Favourite Findings "Bee Happy" Embellishments.
* Packet of Scallop Circle Punch Outs.
* Approx 40cm length of Soft Sky Double Stitched Ribbon
* Thank You Post It Note Holder
* Chocolate (which I forgot to take out of the fridge for the photo)

Natasha I'll arrange to get this to you shortly and I hope you like your blog candy. Thank you so much for playing along. Now to show the world your beautiful cards.

Card 1:

Card 2:

Retiring List

2009-02-17T14:42:00.005+09:30

I've had quite a few people ask me recently when the retiring list of products will be released by Stampin' Up! I can now say that the retiring list will be released by Stampin' Up! on the 1st March 2009. As soon as I can thereafter, I'll post the retiring list on my blog for you all to see, and email it to all my current customers and friends.

Thanks for your interest in this, and also for your excitement with the up coming new 09/10 Stampin' Up! catalogue.

Together Forever

2009-02-17T10:31:00.010+09:30

I hope everyone enjoyed last week's impromptu break from my layout challenges. This week, I have another layout challenge for you and I hope you like it. I've taken - and partly CASEd a card from a lady I know as catwingtwing. Unfortunately she doesn't have a blog but I wanted to give her credit for her lovely card and today's layout inspiration.

Here's today's layout:

And here's my example:

Supplies:

* Summer by the Sea Stamp Set.

* Sahara Sand, Close to Cocoa, Mellow Moss, Creamy Caramel, Whisper White & Water Colour Cardstock.

* StazOn Black, Mellow Moss, Bashful Blue, River Rock, Perfect Plum, Not Quite Navy, Close to Cocoa, Creamy Caramel & Blush Blossom Stamp Pads.

* 1/1/4", 1/3/8" & Photo Corner Punches. Aqua Painter, Piercing tool & Piercing Matt.

We also had a few cards made for the last layout challenge, and I'd like to take the time to show you all the creations these lovely ladies have made. They each deserve a hearty 'Well Done' as their cards are so different yet so sweet. As usual, if you click on each picture a hyperlink will take you through to the artists blog if they have one.

Karen:

Leah

Please come visit my blog tomorrow as I'd like to show you the creations that were made as part of my virtual night. I'm also going to show you the blog candy that's been won by the 'winner' of my virtual night draw.

Christmas 6x6

2009-02-16T14:50:00.002+09:30

Hello everyone, I'm home again and am keen to get back on track with my blog daily happenings. Thanks for all your comments and thoughts. Things weren't serious, but there were a few things that needed my attention last week which I was unprepared for.

Moving on, and today's just going to be a quick post as I have to go pick up my little one from preschool. Above is a 6x6 scrapbook page which I recently made. It took all of 10 minutes max and could easily be turned into a nice card come Christmas 09.

I don't have time to tell you what I've used today, but if you'd like to know, feel free to email me.

A Quick Note

2009-02-10T20:34:00.004+09:30

Hello friends and readers,

I just wanted to pop in here for a few minutes to say that I won't be able to update my blog for the next few days due to personal reasons. I'll be back next Monday with another Monday Madness card as well as the remaining projects I had already made for this week, but will now show you next week (layout challenge and submissions included).

Thank you for your understanding.

Nerine

Bushfire Appeal

2009-02-09T11:22:00.006+09:30

Hi again. I've just found some information on Kellie's blog (which I've copied verbatim) for those who want to help out the bushfire victims...

"Monetary donations are the preferred donations at the moment. If you can afford to give, please dig deep for these people who have lost everything.

1. Donate blood for burns victims, call 13 14 95 for an appointment Australia wide

2. Red Cross donations line (money is the preferred option now) 18008117003.

National Australia bank: donations can be made to: Victoria Bushfire Relief Fund.

The Salvation Army has launched an appeal to help bushfire victims as well as those affected by flooding in North Queensland. They will help those in relief centres with support and counselling as well as provide emergency financial assistance to enable people to buy clothing and personal items. (Monetary donations are preferred:) 13 137258 or go to www.salvos.org.au"

I also heard on the radio that the ANZ bank is also accepting monetary donations, however, I don't know their details.

A Wedding Acceptance

2009-02-09T10:33:00.003+09:30

Hello everyone. I'm afraid I don't have it in me to ask if you all had a good weekend. Or perhaps, I'm afraid to ask considering the horrible weekend Australia has had. First with the continuing flooding (and now crocodile attack/s) in Queensland, and now with the death and destruction reaped by bush fires in Victoria.

I know in my lifetime, I can't remember a disaster on such a devastating scale in Australia, as what we've just experienced. My heart is heavy, and I begin crying each time I watch the news, and think about those who've been affected so completely.

I find that today, I'm undecided as to whether to post my Monday Madness creation. I'm torn wanting to not post in a show of sorrow and mourning. On the other hand, a friend reminded me on the weekend, that she loves visiting my blog as it's a place where she can 'escape and unwind' especially when times get tough.

So, on that thought, I hesitantly decided to post the creation I made for today. It's a wedding acceptance card which I recently sent to my little sister. I've used the colour scheme that we used in her invitations (which I'll show you another day). The entire card was made in about 15 minutes and I've gold heat embossed the entire focal points. The main card is then set on Brushed Gold Metallics Cardstock.

Supplies:
* Baroque Motifs Stamp Set.
* Gold Encore Stamp Pad.
* Very Vanilla & Metallics (Gold) Cardstock.
* Gold EP, Heat Tool & SAMJ.

Virtual Night Project Two

2009-02-07T20:30:00.004+09:30

I hope you all enjoyed making your Valentines Day cards. Now we get to move onto project two. For project two, you have the choice of making either a card, scrapbook page or gift tag using the scallop edge medallion technique. My example is above, and I have to admit, it is rather bright for my usual 'style' of stamping, but I'm really happy with the end result.

If you'd like to play but don't have a scallop edge punch, please don't be discouraged. Simply make use of any punch you may have or even some decorative scissors or tearing to make your medallion.

Ok, first thing I need to do is show you how to make your medallion with the scallop edge punch. So, here goes:

1. Cut a 2/3/4" (7cm) square from your desired piece of cardstock.

2. Taking your Scallop Edge Punch and place your cut square into the centre of the punch. You should have about 1/8" (0.5cm) over hang on each side of the actual punching section. See below photo. Punch exactly like this around each edge of your square.

3. Decorate the centre of your Scallop Punch Medallion anyway you wish.

As I said before, for those of you who don't own this punch, feel free to make a medallion from anything you have at hand to be the focal point of your card. For those of you just joining us for the night, I am currently online to answer any of your questions. Please email me at jasner5@bigpond.net.au should you have any queries. I will need you to type a reply email address in the narrative along with your question so I can reply to you.

For those that wish to go into the draw for the blog candy, please either email me a picture of your creation and/or leave a comment in the post of the project you did with a link to your blog. This way we can all see what you've created. For those that make a creation for each project, so long as you email or comment in both of my posts, you'll have two entries into my blog candy draw.

Supplies:

* Tart & Tangy, Kia Ora Stamp Sets.

* Real Red Stamp Pad. Real Red & Old Olive Stampin' Write Markers.

* Bashful Blue Textured Cardstock, Whisper White & Real Red Cardstock. Summer Picnic DSP.

* Wide Old Olive Grosgrain Ribbon & Scallop Edge Punch.

* Glue Dots & Stampin' Dimensionals.

Well, I'll be back on Monday with my Monday Madness Card. Until then, I hope you all have a great weekend.

Virtual Night Project One

2009-02-07T19:30:00.000+09:30

Good evening everyone, and welcome to another Virtual Night. The first project we'll be making is a Valentines Day Card and this is the 'themed' project of the night. I thought it would be a good idea so that you would all be ready a week before Valentines Day and thus, wouldn't need to panic at the last minute. Aren't I thoughtful!

There are absolutely no restrictions as to what you can and can't do, so long as the finished project revolves around Love. Above is my example, and I've used the SAB set Polka Dot Punches. This is easily my favourite SAB set this year as it's just so versatile.

I will be online for the next two hours. Please email me if you have any queries and I'll return your email ASAP. My email address is jasner5@bigpond.net.au. Please make sure in the narrative of your email, you leave me your reply email address if using the above link, otherwise I will not be able to reply to you. Until next hour and our next project, have fun!

Supplies:

* Polka Dot Punches and Baroque Motifs Stamp Set.

* Craft White Stamp Pad.

* Pretty In Pink & Vellum Cardstock. Berry Bliss DSP.

* Pretty In Pink Gingham Ribbon, White EP, Mat Pack & Piercing Tool.

A Budding Christmas

2009-02-06T15:19:00.000+09:30

Earlier this week, I showed you a card I'd made using a Stampin' Around Wheel (Basics Outline) whereby I'd coloured some of the flowers. Well, the original project I made with this strip of cardstock was actually a 6"x6" scrapbook page for Mel's latest challenge. The strip that made Monday's card was simply left over that I didn't want to waste.

Which brings me to the above, today's scrapbook page. With a Christmas photo, I wanted to adhere to Christmas colours on the layout. Luckily for me Old Olive perfectly matches the background in the photo so everything ties in nicely. The page was simple involving Stampin' Around, marker use and tearing. I hope you like today's scrapbook page.

Supplies:

* Basics Outline Stampin' Around Wheel. Many Merry Messages Stamp Set.

* Very Vanilla, Old Olive & Real Red Cardstock.

* Chocolate Chip Jumbo Cartridge, Real Red Stamp Pad.

* Real Red, More Mustard and Old Olive Stampin' Write Markers.

* Cherish Sizzlets Alphabet.

My First Bella

2009-02-05T17:43:00.004+09:30

Earlier in the week, I received a little package of some Bella Stamps from Canada. I originally saw Bella stamps on a fellow SU Demo's site (thanks Marcia :)) and fell in love with their funky young lady images. With a tweenie daughter I knew I'd use them HEAPS for her cards and cards for her friends, and not having used them since I received them, thought today I'd try them out.

Paper piecing, (and today's effort was my first attempt at it) is SO easy. I've used this technique on Kinibella's beach towel and beach bag. Basically, I've stamped two of exactly the same image. One on plain cardstock and the other on some patterned paper. I've then cut out the stamped towel and bag sections and adhered them onto my stamped image on plain cardstock. Then I've coloured the remainder of the image using inks, pastels and a blender pen. It looks GREAT and it's easy peasy! I hope you like today's card and today's technique.

Supplies:
* KiniBella (Bella Stamps) & Riveting (retired) Stamp Sets
* Soft Sky, River Rock and Whisper White Cardstock. Fall Flowers DSP.
* Soft Sky, River Rock & Basic Black Stamp Pads. Stampin' Pastels & Blender Pen.
* Antique Brass Hodgepodge, Mat Pack, Piercing Tool, 1/1/4" & 1/3/8" Circle Punches.
* CM Oval Cutting System.

Altered Note Box

2009-02-04T08:36:00.000+09:30

I saw these cute little note blocks in our local two dollar shop and couldn't resist picking up a few to alter. This is the first I've done and I'm really happy with the end result. I covered the inside and outside of the box using DSP. I've also covered and used a chipboard letter 'N' (I'm not sure if it's going to stand for Nerine or Notes or possibly even Nerines Notes) on the top of the box for added dimension. To finish off the project, I've also carried through the DSP onto the first page of the note pad stack within the box. Below is a picture of the interior of the box with it's note stack. I hope you like today's off the page creation.

Supplies:

* Ginger Blossom DSP.

* Really Rust Stamp Pad.

* On Board Lots of Letters Chipboard, Square Scallop Punch, sponge & Groovy Guava Double Stitched Ribbon.

Virtual Night

2009-02-03T21:03:00.003+09:30

This Saturday will be my first Virtual night of the year. I will be starting the event at 7.30pm Central Standard Time and have planned two projects. One will involve a technique while the other will be a 'theme' challenge. The projects will be posted an hour apart to allow time for those playing along on the night to complete their creations.

For those that can't play along on the night, there is no time limit to complete the two challenges/projects, however, for those that email to me or post their creations (and let me know) on their blog before Saturday 14th February 2009, they will go into a draw for some great blog candy. By notifying me of your creations (either by email or by posting on your own sites) I reserve the right to show and/or link your creations to this blog. This also allows me to keep track of who's in the draw for the offered blog candy. All credit will be given to each artist.

I hope you can all play along at some stage, and I look forward to seeing your wonderful card art.

Make a Wish

2009-02-03T12:47:00.007+09:30

Hello everyone. Well, it's Tuesday so it's time for another layout challenge and of course, to show you what some talented ladies created with last weeks design. I'm afraid I don't think I'm going to make too many friends this week with the layout challenge, just remember it is supposed to be a challenge and please, try not to be too angry with me. Here it is:

My inspiration for this card came from a similar one in the new US Stampin' Up! catalogue. The card I created however, is a little different in that I've added stitching to my design, changed the colours, used DSP and carried the pattern all the way across the card. Although I've used circles, for this layout, you can use ANY shape you wish. If your really adventurous, why not try using buttons, pretties or even rectangles of different sizes if you don't have any punches. Just remember to have fun!

Now, here's my example:

Supplies:

* So Many Sayings Stamp Set.

* Pumpkin Pie & Whisper White Cardstock. Summer Picnic DSP (Spring Mini).

* Pumpkin Pie Stamp Pad.

* Linen Thread, 1/3/8", 1/1/4" & 1" Circle Punches.

Now to what you've all been waiting for. Here are the layouts that some of you have made during the past week (the ones I know about anyway). Once again, to view more work or gain information from the artist, if they have a blog, a hyperlink will carry you through to that site if you click on the picture of their creation.

Sharon:

Tammy:

Kellie:

Friend

2009-02-02T14:19:00.002+09:30

I recently stumbled across a new blog by Julie Davidson that is fantastic. While looking through her posts, I fell in love with one of her cards titled (co-incidentally) 'Good Friend Card' and I knew that I had to not only make it, but also pop my own spin on it. The above is what I came up with.

As I was using left over cardstock, my card is not a trifold card. Instead, the front of the card is only 5cm wide, with the remainder of the card being the inside section. There's still room between the folded sections to pop a short message so the layout isn't spoilt. I hope you like today's Monday Madness Card.

Supplies:

* Bud Basics, For a Friend & Basics Outline Stamp set/Stampin Around Wheel.

* Chocolate Chip Stamp Pad. Chocolate Chip Large Cartridge.

* Real Red, Chocolate Chip, More Mustard & Old Olive Markers.

* SAMJ, Wide Grosgrain Ribbon (Old Olive) & Antique Brass Hodge Podge.

Flow Rider

2009-01-30T11:48:00.004+09:30

Over New Years, my family and I flew to Brisbane to visit my husband's family. While there, we went to Dreamworld and White Water World. Today I'd like to show you the photo's I scrapbooked of my two eldest children and husband having fun on Dreamworlds newest ride - Flow Rider. They all had so much fun, and said next time we go to Brisbane, that they'll definitely be going back to Dreamworld specifically for this ride.

I've again used a combination of Creative Memories and Stampin' Up! product. I would have used all Stampin' Up! except that I seem to have completely run out of any suitable blue DSP. As this is for my own personal album though, I don't mind that it's a mixture of products as I think the final product looks great. I hope you like it too.

Supplies:

* Well Worn Alphabet Stamp Set (Retired in Australia)

* Whisper White & Vellum Cardstock.

* Not Quite Navy Stamp Pad.

* CM Circle Cutting System, Bubbles Punch, Shades of Blue paper and Album Page.

A Photo Challenge

2009-01-29T21:19:00.004+09:30

Hi everyone!

Well, this is a bit of an impromptu visit to my blog - two posts in one day. This one's not card related though. I've been issued a photo challenge by both Sharon and Kellie, so I thought I'd play along.

The game is to go to your photo folder, and choose the 6th subfolder and the sixth photo within that folder. I'm then to post that photo and tell the story that goes with it. So, here goes...

This photo was taken in February (I think) 2007 when my husband's favourite football team came to Darwin to play the Aboriginal All Stars. My husband dragged us all to the game in sweltering heat and humidity. While the kids and I lost kilo's in sweat, he was busy snapping HEAPS of pictures of the game. He was happy though, but now (and this must be a sign) Essendon are back in Darwin again next month and he wants to watch them play again. He's trying to talk me into buying tickets to the game as (and I quote) "We'll be there anyway picking up our new car so it won't be a special trip".

Now I have to pass this on to five other bloggers. As I'm a little lazy tonight, I'm going to let other blogging readers decide if they wish to play this game. If you'd like to play, consider this an invitation and pop a comment in this post so we can link through to your blogs.

Until tomorrow, good night.

Love You

2009-01-29T11:42:00.004+09:30

Today I wanted to show you this cute little focal medallion made using a 2/3/4" square piece of cardstock and Stampin' Up!'s new Scallop Edge Punch. It's so easy and I'll be showing you how to make this for our February Virtual Stamping Night...so stay tuned for that!

To colour the main image, I've used Stampin' Write Markers, and I've placed this same image on the inside of the card to give the creation that little something extra since there's no other sentiment other than "Love You". I hope you like today's simple card.

Supplies:
* Carte Postale Stamp Set.
* Close to Cocoa & Very Vanilla Cardstock. Berry Bliss DSP.
* Close to Cocoa & Pretty in Pink Stampin Write Markers, Very Vanilla Taffeta Ribbon, 1/1/4" & 1/3/8" Circle Punches, Scallop Edge Punch and Cherished Memories Rub Ons.

Back to School - Mini Back Pack

2009-01-28T08:10:00.001+09:30

Well, to celebrate my children going back to school tomorrow, and my youngest starting preschool today I created this cute little mini back pack. It's made out of one piece of 12"x12" cardstock and about a third of a sheet of DSP.

The entire bag actually opens up and you can pop cute little somethings within each of the sections. I've closed the top 'main' section of the bag with a ribbon which can be easily undone. The bottom section I've temporarily sealed with the two way glue pen. I hope you like today's off the page creation.

Supplies:

* River Rock Textured 12"x12" Cardstock. Ginger Blossom DSP.

* Groovy Guava Double Stitched Ribbon.

* Sticky Strip, 12" Trimmer with Scoring Blade.

* CM Oval Cutting System and a button from my spare button jar.

Dragon Wishes

2009-01-27T19:12:00.009+09:30

It's Tuesday which means, another layout challenge for you all. I've popped together something a bit different for today, and I hope you like this weeks challenge. So, here's the layout:

And below is my example. Not only is it an example of this weeks layout challenge, but it's also the perfect example of why I should NOT be allowed to use bold brights and why, I'm still very much afraid of using colours outside monochromatic tones. I am very sorry for this card, but I just couldn't get it right and I ran out of time to re-do it for the fifth time.

I've used my cuttlebug embossing folder for the 'dragon scale' look. I've also tried to draw little dragon footprints around the edge of the card. The image has been water coloured with watercolour wonder crayons...my favourite colouring medium to use.

Supplies:

* Stamp It Dragon Birthday Stamp, Bold Birthday Stamp Set.

* StazOn Black Lovely Lilac & Gable Green Stamp Pads.

* Pixie Pink, Whisper White, Lovely Lilac, Gable Green & Water Colour Cardstock.

* Water Colour Wonder Crayons, Aqua Painter & Markers.

As always, I'd like to show you the creations made by my readers during the previous week. They are fantastic and I'd like to thank you all for once again playing along. For those requiring more information on the cards, if you click on each card picture a hyperlink will move you across to the artists blog if they have one. Of course, the cards below are the cards I know about, so if I've missed you in this post, please make sure you leave a comment so we can find your creation.

Chook:

Natasha:

Karen R:

Well, I've got to run and finish covering school books for back to school on Thursday. Until tomorrow Adieu!

Australia Day 'Thanks Heaps'

2009-01-26T11:37:00.004+09:30

As a child, I was privileged to live and travel in quite a few different countries around the world. I can remember being embarrassed by the fact that I was Australian because of how the outside world perceived us as a people and as a Nation. This perception by those around us, filtered down to my family who was living abroad. I was teased at school for my ocker accent and it was expected (and communicated) that I should ALWAYS slob about in thongs, dress in a Bonds singlet and basically behave like the worst of 1980's Australian stereo-types.

I'm telling you this because, not only did my experiences open my eyes to the splendor of the greater world, their sights, foods and cultures. But, it also made me appreciate what I had at home. Australia is truly (in my opinion) THE BEST country in the world to live in. Now, when I travel abroad, I'm proud of my accent and my designer thongs. They symbolise something which I was born too, something that's within my blood, stirs my soul and fills my heart with a completeness of belonging.

So, today I have for you a card that I made specifically for Australia Day. I've taken our national 'green and gold' and created something sophisticated to show the world were all not just thongs, beer and brickies smiles. Were tradition, camaraderie, beauty and a whole lot more that I can't even put into words, but feel with every fibre of my being. Happy Australia Day!

Supplies:

* Live Your Dreams Stamp Set.

* VersaMark & Handsome Hunter Stamp Pads.

* Handsome Hunter, Metallics (gold) & Very Vanilla Cardstock.

* Embossing Buddy, Gold & Clear Embossing Powders & Pretties Kit.

Learn to Ride

2009-01-23T21:13:00.002+09:30

I'm sorry I'm a little late posting today. I've been flat out all day and now is the first real chance I've had to concentrate on the computer.

Today I have for you a simple scrapbook page I've created using predominantly scrap pieces of DSP/Cardstock. I've also incorporated some chipboard to accentuate the stamped heading and to indicate that my youngest was only 2 years old when he began riding his pushbike with no training wheels. I hope you like today's page.

Supplies:
* Defining Alphabet Stamp Set.
* Wild Wasabi & Whisper White Cardstock, Fall Flowers DSP & On Board Lots of Letters Chipboard.
* Wild Wasabi Stamp Pad.
* Scallop Edge Punch.
* CM Wavey 12" trimmer, CM Green Pen and CM 12" page.

For Marcia

2009-01-22T13:23:00.006+09:30

Earlier this month, I participated in a Sale-A-Bration swap. The other participants should have their card fronts by now, so I'd like to show you my contribution and dedicate it to Marcia who is celebrating a birthday today. Happy Birthday and many happy returns.

I absolutely LOVE the colour scheme of this card. I specifically went out of my way to use colours I wouldn't normally pick myself, and discovered this combination as I was blog surfing. I think it's a KWerner combo from quite some time ago, but can't be sure. As for techniques, this card uses quite a few of the basics being, SAMJ use, heat embossing and paper punching. I hope you like today's card.

Supplies:

* Botanical Blooms Stamp Set.

* Elegant Eggplant, Taken with Teal & Whisper White Cardstock.

* Elegant Eggplant & Taken with Teal Markers. VersaMark Stamp Pad.

* 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon, White Embossing Powder, Edge Scallop Punch, SAMJ & Embossing Buddy.

Decorated Bag

2009-01-21T15:01:00.008+09:30

Over the weekend, my daughter went to her friend's birthday party. She asked me if I would make the card and the wrapping paper. I was happy to do so, and made the above card and stamped a few sheets of white tissue wrap with the same cake stamp from Birthday Whimsy. I then remembered seeing on another blog how the artist - Andrea from Sydney, matched the gift bag with the card. I decided to do the same for my daughter's friend.

Stampin' Up! sell white gift bags for this purpose. However, quite some time ago now, I decided to 'go green' and bought a heap of paper bags which I use in lieu of the Stampin' Up! plastic bags for customer orders. So, I grabbed one of these and decorated it. I know many of my customers would hold onto their paper bags and re-use them and thought this would be a nifty idea for them, not to mention a little different from using a Stampin' Around wheel. I hope you like today's off the page project.

Supplies:
*Birthday Whimsy Stamp Set.

* Whisper White, Pretty in Pink, Close to Cocoa and Slumber Party DSP (retired).

* Pretty in Pink, Close to Cocoa and Apricot Appeal Markers.

* Stampin' Dimensionals and Pretty in Pink Gingham Ribbon.

Love of a Lifetime

2009-01-20T14:13:00.010+09:30

Well, it's Tuesday which means it's time for another layout challenge. I'm still keeping the layout's simple, but I have to admit, this layout is the next step up from what I have been posting lately. I hope you enjoy the layout, here it is:

Feel free to rotate any of the elements with the card as you see fit. You may also change the shape slightly if you wish. To show you what I mean, below is my example. Before you have a look, I'd like to apologise for two posts in a row using the same colour scheme. I made yesterdays and today's cards at the same time using scrap pieces of paper. I loved the idea of layering the hearts together like this, which I confess I gained from a swap my upline sent me a while back. Thank you Karen!

Supplies:

* Always (Spring Mini) & So Many Sayings Stamp Sets.

* Whisper White & Purely Pomegranate Cardstock.

* Purely Pomegranate Stamp Pad.

* Purely Pole granite Satin Ribbon (Spring Mini), Word Window Punch, Glue Dots (Mini) & Stampin' Dimensionals.

* Cuttlebug Embossing Folder (Birds and Swirls).

And now to last weeks challenge. Below are a few cards I know about which were made by you...my readers. They are all fantastic and it's amazing to see the different types of cards you can make from one simple layout. For those wishing to know more about each card, simply click on the picture and a hyperlink will move you across to the artists blog if they have one.

Karen:

Kathryn:

Leah:

Natasha:

Leesa:

Until tomorrow...Nerine.

Polka Dot Love

2009-01-19T09:28:00.003+09:30

Hello everyone. I hope you all had a lovely weekend. I spent mine mainly scrapbooking and although I REALLY tried to clean up after each page, my living room looks abominable. So, I'm going to keep this post short so I can clean up my mess - otherwise we'll be having lunch and dinner 'alfresco' again.

The above card I've created quickly with a background stamp, some cutting out and a little satin ribbon from the Spring Mini. I've also tried to incorporate a faux bow with the love heart actually on the front of the bow. My inspiration (and your going to laugh at me for this) was Sir Percival Blakeney's Cravat in "The Scarlet Pimpernel" which I watched over the weekend! I've securely adhered the heart and bow in place by a brad from my pretties kit which I don't use often enough. I wished the photo captured how the rhinestone brad catches the light and transforms the card, but I'm afraid you'll have to take my word for it and 'imagine' the sparkle.

Supplies:

* Polka Dot Background & Polka Dot Punches Stamp Sets.

* Purely Pomegranate Stamp Pad.

* Whisper White & Purely Pomegranate Cardstock.

* Purely Pomegranate Satin Ribbon, Pretties Kit, Brayer, Crop-a-dile & Piercing Tool.

Footy 2008

2009-01-18T16:36:00.005+09:30

Well, after so many comments stating that my earlier Auskick page needed a title - regardless of what Jason said (and I have to admit, I thought it needed something too), I decided to turn the page into a double paged layout. This way, I could add some extra photo's I had printed, as well as add more jounelling and a heading. I would have preferred an italics font, but beggars can't be choosers.

I hope you like the finished layout.

Auskick Presentations 2008

2009-01-16T09:07:00.001+09:30

Last year, my eldest son began playing Auskick in the under 6's local competition. He had a stella season and in addition to his team winning the under 6's premiership, he was also voted the team's 'Best and Fairest' player for the season. The above is the scrapbook page I've created to preserve these memoirs for him.

Although it may be hard to see, I have stamped the sentiment "Go Confidently in the direction of your dreams" from the Live Your Dreams stamp set in the bottom left hand corner. For the journelling, as my handwriting was just too large (and I had too much I wanted too say) I've had to type and print it to fit in the confined space I had for journelling.

I'm really happy with how this page turned out, and it probably only took me approximately 30 minutes to complete. I'm still considering popping an italics heading in the top right had corner (made from sizzix die cuts) stating "footy" but DH insists the page doesn't need it. What do you think?

Supplies:
* Live Your Dreams Stamp Set.
* Really Rust Stamp Pad.
* Fall Flowers DSP, Whisper White & Really Rust Cardstock.

Good On Ya!

2009-01-15T12:48:00.000+09:30

Heat Embossing is a great way to get a metallic look onto a card, and this is exactly what I've done for today's technique Thursday. Not only is it eye catching, but it's also a quick and easy way to WOW your friends with your amazing creative abilities :)

For the above card, I've taken my embossing buddy and swathed my card front thinly in it's diffused powder. The embossing buddy is cleverly designed to minimise static adherence of minute specs of embossing powder to unwanted surfaces. I've then taken my Encore Silver ink pad and thourally 'inked up' my stampin around Classic Stars Wheel. After stamping my star image, I've tapped some silver embossing powder over the stamped image, tapped off the excess and then heated the remaining powder on the card with my heat tool.

The heat from the tool melts the powder turning it from a 'matt' like finish to that of a metallic shine. Caution should be taken however for heating the powder too much, or too little will cause the powder to go bubbly, bumpy, scorched or all of the above. In addition to this, embossing powders have a life span of about two years. Once they become too old, you'll notice once you've heated the powder, the colour isn't as vibrant as it should be and it may also be splotchy. If this happens, it's time for some new powder.

I hope you like today's card. I have to admit, it's not a favourite of mine, but I wanted to show a card that would clearly show heat embossing in a photo.

Supplies:
* Star Studded SA Wheel, Kia Ora & Small Sayings Stamp Sets.
* Encore Silver & Night of Navy Stamp Pads.
* Metallics (Silver), Night of Navy & Whisper White Cardstock.
* Silver Brads, 1/1/4" Circle Punch, Designer Label Punch and Silver Embossing Powder.

Decorated Glass

2009-01-14T14:20:00.003+09:30

With so much landfill being created these day's from rubbish, I've made a conscientious effort to minimise our household waste. So, if you ever visit, when I offer you a drink, you'll most likely receive your beverage in an old (and cleaned out) condiment jar. I particularly like using the Hazelnut Spread jars as their a good size and are perfect for turning into glassware. What's more, if one accidentally smashes, it's inexpensive to replace and I'll constantly have a perfect set.

This week, I decided to get creative with my recycled glassware by using Rub On's. So, playing around a little, I decided the above would make a great candle jar, lolly jar (which was my original intent before the family ate the lollies) or, with just a few extra rub-on's I could individualise each glass to give it that little something extra. This is exactly what I've done for this milk glass which my daughter has claimed as her own.

As for cleaning, I've found that the rub on's don't mind a warm soapy but gentle handwash but I wouldn't recommend popping them into a dishwasher.

Supplies:
* Cherished Memories Rub Ons.
* Old Jar.

Now & Forever

2009-01-13T13:46:00.001+09:30

Well, it's time for another layout challenge. This week, I've kept it simple again so everyone can join in and not feel intimidated. This time however, I thought it would be nice to incorporate a circle as a layout - just to spice things up a little for my beginner stampers.

Here's the Layout:

Here's my Example:

Supplies:

* Occasional Greetings & Canvas Stamp Sets.

* So Saffron, Sky Blue & Very Vanilla Cardstock. Le Jardin DSP.

* So Saffron & Sky Blue Stamp Pads.

* Brayer, 1/3/8" Circle Punch, Scallop Circle Punch & White Gel Pen.

Now, usually I'd sign off here, but I wanted to share with you what some ladies made with last week's layout. Every one's done such a great job I hope you all had fun making these and can find time to join in this weeks layout challenge.

Kathryn:

Leesa:

Karen:

Live, Laugh & Love

2009-01-12T13:27:00.006+09:30

It's Monday Madness time, and today I've created a simple geometric card using a little DSP a few stamps and a white A6 Greeting Card. Basically, I've punched out four squares all exactly the same size from two different but co-ordinating pieces of DSP (Designer Series Paper). To align them perfectly I've eye-balled the top left hand square, and then used a ruler and that square as a guide to position the others perfectly.

The sentiment has been stamped on another piece of cardstock. I've then punched it out using a lightly larger punch than I used for the DSP. This allowed me to have a boarder around the sentiment so it wouldn't get 'lost' on the DSP once positioned. I've then adhered the sentiment in the centre of the square tiles. I've then trimmed this, adhered this piece of cardstock onto the main card front which has created a faux dry embossed frame.

To position the flowers down the bottom, I've used Stampin' Up!'s AMAZING Stamp-a-ma-jig. This little tool not only allows me to position things exactly where I want them, but by stamping on the clear perspex I can play around with not only where to position my stamp but also the colours and a whole heap of other things. Honestly (and this isn't so much a sales pitch as it is a pitch to your sanity and craft supplies), if you don't have a Stamp-a-ma-jig, please invest in one. You won't regret it! I hope you like today's simple and quick card.

Supplies:
* It's All Good & For a Friend Stamp Sets.
* Whisper White C6 Greeting Card, Whisper White Cardstock & Fall Flowers DSP.
* Really Rust Stamp Pad & Marker.
* SAMJ, Fiskers 12" Trimmer & Scoring Blade.

Proximity Award

2009-01-12T13:03:00.004+09:30

Thank you so much to Leesa who has given me this award for my blog. I'm not sure I fall exactly into it's 'mission statement' as I do at times offer prizes, but I do know that I LOVE the comrade and friendship of others I've found in the blogging world.

In receiving this award, I've agreed to post this awards creed and pass it onto another 8 bloggers who, with luck will then pass it on to 8 other great blogs. So, here goes:

"These blogs believe and invest in PROXIMITY - nearness in space, time and relationships! These blogs are exceedingly charming. These kind bloggers aim to find and be friends. They are not interested in prizes or self-aggrandizement. Our hope is that when the ribbons of these prizes are cut, even more friendships are propagated. Please give more attention to these writers! Deliver this award to eight bloggers, who must choose eight more and include this cleverly written text into the body of their awards".

and I'd like to pass this award onto:

Marcia
Chrissie
Mel
Natasha
Sharon
Leah
Tabitha and last but definitely not least
Karen

I hope you all like your award and don't already have it.

Race Ready

2009-01-09T12:32:00.005+09:30

For those of you that know me, you know my children all ride motorbikes...even the girl child! Last year my youngest turned 3 and we'd promised him a Pee Wee 50 if he could ride his pushbike with no training wheels before his 3rd birthday. We thought it would buy us some time!

Well, after pestering us daily to practice, approximately two months before his 3rd birthday, my little man succeeded in his mission and rode his (tiny) pushbike with no training wheels. He became so proficient at it, he began to ride with Daddy to and from home and daycare. The only problem was stopping. Being so short, he couldn't brake and place his feet on the ground to stop. So, as he rode his pushy usually standing up, he came up with the novel idea to simply jump off his bike while it was still in motion. Naturally the pushy would crash to the ground, but my little man would be safe and on his feet a short distance away. He'd definitely stopped even if it was an unconventional means by which he did so!

Which moves us onto this scrapbook page. The photo's were taken the day of Master three's birthday. After getting over the excitement of having his bike, he insisted that we line up all the kids bikes for a race picture. The kids are pretending in the first picture to be at the start line of a race - elbows out and up, heads down ready to go. In the subsequent photo's however, all the children have decided to show us their best "Crusty Demons" moves.

My colour scheme has been taken from the kids motorbikes. For those in the know (and those about to be educated like myself a few years ago) I've used Only Orange to represent the older children's KTM Motorbikes and Brilliant Blue to represent Master 3's Yamaha. I've also used my sizzix machine and lolly pop alphabet for the heading.

Supplies:
* Polka Dot Punches Stamp Set.
* Basic Black Stamp Pad.
* Only Orange & Brilliant Blue Cardstock.
* 1/1/4" Circle Punch, 1/2" Circle Punch & Photo Corners Punch.

Non SU Supplies:
* CM Black Pages
* CM Orange Pen.
* Sizzix Machine and Lollipop Alphabet.

Kissed by Flowers

2009-01-08T19:13:00.005+09:30

Thursday is my 'technique' day, and today I decided to kill two birds with one stone - figuratively speaking of course. My sister demo Mel posts a challenge each fortnight and today's incorporated a technique, colour and accessory challenge. So, after giving it some thought, I decided to hi-jack her idea and show you the 'kissing' technique so I could also play along in Mel's challenge. The inspiration was:

Unfortunately, I completely forgot that the 'Always' stamp set was from the Spring Mini and I've used it for the sentiment. For Mel's challenges everything has to be 'current' Stampin' Up! product. I'm not sure if it counts that I'm 99.9% positive we'll see 'Always' again in our next catty. After all, it's just too pretty not to make a re-appearance. Of course, this is only my own speculation and 'premonition' rather than actual fact. Although, perhaps I'm just looking for some justification for using currently unavailable (as it's not yet officially retired) merchandise :).

Anyhow, moving on, I've kissed the large flower from 'Looks Like Spring' onto the 'Canvas' background stamp to give the flower a cloth like effect. I've then used the 'masking' and 'stamping off' techniques to stamp the leaves and have crystal effected my flower centres and faux brads. Then, I have broken up the background cardstock with a few white Rub On's. Last but not least, I've added a colour to Mel's criteria as I also saw Rose Red in the above orchid which was to be our inspiration for Mel's challenge. I hope you like today's creation.

Supplies:

* Looks Like Spring, Canvas, Blossoms Abound and Always Stamp Sets.

* Orchid Opulence, Barely Banana, Certainly Celery and Whisper White Cardstock.

* Orchid Opulence, Certainly Celery and Rose Red Stamp Pads.

* Certainly Celery DSP, Cherished Memories Rub-Ons, Scallop Edge Punch, Crop-A-Dile, 1/2" Circle Punch, Stampin' Dimensionals & Crystal Effects.

Embrace Life Key Ring

2009-01-07T19:51:00.003+09:30

Wednesday brings with it my 'off the page' creations, which is my attempt to move away from simply filling my blog with handmade cards and scrapbook pages. Today, I created two projects - however I'll save the second for next week.

This week, I'd like to show you the handmade keyring I created. I've water coloured and sponged the image and used the new scallop square punch to create a pretty boarder around the image. My crop-a-dile has punched the hole for the keyring chain to go through.

Now that I've photographed my keyring, I'm going to use my crystal effects on one side of the creation to give it a glossy, glass like and hard protective coating. Once the first side has dried, I'll turn the keyring tag over and place crystal effects on the reverse as well. If your wondering why I didn't photograph the project after using the crystal effects, it's because the glass like effect of the crystal effects makes photographing difficult as a result of the shiny surface once dried. I hope you like tonights quick and easy 'off the page' creation.

Supplies:

* Embrace Life Stamp Set.

* Black StazOn Stamp Pad.

* Watercolour Wonder Paper & Ballet Blue Cardstock.

* Rich Regals Water Colour Wonder Crayons, Neutral Crayons & Aqua Painter.

* Keyring taken from a useless spare I had around the house.

Whimsical Birthday

2009-01-06T17:57:00.006+09:30

Ha ha! Well, my first weekly layout challenge for 2009 is here and I managed to not only come up with a layout, but also make a card to show you all too! So with no further adieu, here is this weeks layout challenge:

And here is my example:

I've decided to post weekly layout challenges for two reasons. The first reason is that many of my readers requested I do this. The second reason was to encourage you all to get out your own stamping supplies to create your own projects and challenge yourselves.

Feel free to email me your creations to post, or pop a link in the comments to your own blog showing your creation for us all to look at. There will be no weekly prize and no weekly winner for this challenge as I hope to encourage participation & FUN rather than competition. I hope you like this idea. Today's creation which was inspired by Teneale Williams.

Supplies
* Garden Whimsy, Polka Dot & Cheery Chat Stamp Sets.
* Certainly Celery, So Saffron, Groovy Guava and Whisper White Cardstock.
* So Saffron, Certainly Celery & Groovy Guava Stamp Pads.
* Groovy Guava Double Stitched Ribbon & Stampin Dimensionals.

Masculine Get Well Soon

2009-01-05T18:55:00.005+09:30

Firstly, I'd like to thank everyone for their thoughts, messages and phone calls regarding my (and my families) recent car accident. I'm really blessed to have such wonderful and caring friends. We had confirmation today that our car is 'unfix able' and is thus, a complete write off. After attending the wreckers today and seeing the damage, I'm so thankful that no one was injured seriously.

Moving on, today was the beginning of my new 'blog happenings'. I'm kicking off with a card I made for my (soon to be) brother-in-law who's a little under the weather at the moment. This card was designed and created in under 30 minutes as per my Monday Madness Criteria. It was so simple to make, and after completing it, I had some left over time, so have stamped a sentiment and more designs on the inside of the card on white cardstock. I just love the colour scheme and I hope my BIL does as well. I've also used one of the Sale-A-Bration sets that are currently available called Polka Dot Punches.

Supplies:
* Polka Dot Punches (SAB Set), Cheery Chat Stamp Set.
* Apricot Appeal, Bashful Blue and Chocolate Chip Stamp Pads.
* Chocolate Chip, Apricot Appeal and Whisper White Cardstock.
* Bashful Blue Stripped Grosgrain Ribbon, Glue Dots (Mini).

Sale-A-Bration Promotion

2009-01-04T21:58:00.005+09:30

For the month of January and February 2009, Stampin' Up! are running a Sale-a-Bration promotion. This is an opportunity for everyone who spends a minimum of $100 on their order (excluding P&H however customer, workshop or demonstrator orders are all included) to receive a FREE stamp set from Stampin' Up's! Sale-A-Bration Catalogue. Spend $200 and you receive two FREE Sale-A-Bration stamp sets and so on.

For those wishing to join Stampin' Up! as an independent demonstrator, Sale-A-Bration is the perfect time as extra FREE stamp sets can be earned. In addition to this, you have until the 30th June 2009 to meet your first quarter's minimums!

For more information or to view the Sale-A-Bration Catalogue, please contact me at jasner5@bigpond.net.au or click on the above picture to take you to the Stampin' Up! Website promotion information.

Last but not least, the card shown in the above picture is a CASE from the Sale-A-Bration catalogue using product I have available. I have used the two step stamping and stamp off processes to obtain the colouring of the flower.

Supplies:
* Botanical Blooms & Fine Lace Stamp Sets.
* Blush Blossom, Rose Red, Old Olive and Whisper White Cardstock.
* Rose Red & Old Olive Stamp Pads and Markers.
* Cherished Memories Rub On's & White Grosgrain Ribbon.

Back From Holiday's

2009-01-04T07:58:00.004+09:30

Hi everyone. Well, although I didn't advertise it on my blog, you probably guessed that my absence of more than a week was indication I was away on holidays. The family and I went to Brisbane for a week to visit extended family and friends. In addition to that, we managed to go to Dreamworld/White Water World, Cirque Du Soleil (which was FANTASTIC) and the races.

Personally, I'm rather glad to be home. Although we did some great things on our holiday, I think it can class as THE WORST holiday we've ever had. To begin with, our flight carrier managed to totally destroy our suitcase on the way to Brisbane. Then, there were the usual extended/family squabbles scattered around our visit once we'd arrived.

On our arrival back in Darwin we were informed that one of our suitcases had decided to take the scenic route home and was travelling unaccompanied. (although we took one down, we had to bring back 4 to accommodate the small amount of shopping I did and the massive amount of presents that were given to us for Christmas on our arrival). We decided to head home with out the bag as we had no idea how long it would take for the bag to finish it's vacation and run out of funds :) and arrive in Darwin.

This is where a bad holiday became significantly worse. 20km north of Katherine on the Stuart Highway, our vehicle was hit by a storm front. In the Northern Territory, it can be lightly sprinkling rain, then within a second, it can change to a torrential downpour. This is what happened to us. With the road unable to accommodate the deluge, as we were slowing down for the changed weather conditions, our vehicle aqua planned on water across the road and DH lost control of the vehicle which, at the time was travelling at 100km an hour.

For the most part we are all unhurt suffering at the most only cuts and bruises. Our car however is a complete (in my opinion) write off having damage to left and right hand sides of the vehicle, major damage to the back of the vehicle, under carriage and roof. I'm quite upset about it as I really liked my car.

So today we have to begin the search for a new vehicle. If it's fixable (which I doubt) then we'll need to find a car to use while it's repaired. If it's written off, then we need a car to replace it. DH wants one exactly the same but newer, however I'm not so sure. I'm leaning more towards getting him a work type vehicle he can tow the trailer and bikes to the Moto-X track with, while I have the nice new (well, new second hand) car. I guess time will tell.

Tomorrow I shall start with my 2009 blog happenings each day, as this - I think, will lift me from my melancholy mood. Until then, I'll fill you in on my next post with this months Stampin' Up! promotion.