Archives for July 2013

VIDEO: Wetlands Color Wash Technique

wetlands-stampwithtamiI love the way this card turned out. The washed in background of the beach and the bird silhouettes are eye catching. I thought they were sea gulls, my mom thought they were Terns (I think that was the name)...what do you think?

I used the color wash technique to create the background. The key to achieving this effect is the paper used. I used Stampin' Up's watercolor paper, it does make a difference. I also love the convenience of our aqua painters (brushes), you don't need any extra supplies...such as a cup of water.

INSPIRATION SHEET

2013-07-wetlands

Inspiration Sheet
Includes all measurements and supplies
Wetlands Color Wash Card pdf

 

VIDEO

Stampin Up Making a Difference

These videos are just some of the many reasons why I love Stampin' Up, and how we can make a difference. It's a very special company, and I'm proud to be a part of it.

Stampin' Up Making a Difference for 25 Years

We believe that by sharing our talents and offering friendship to others, every one of us can make a difference at home, in our communities, and around the world. Hear from demonstrators who share how Stampin' Up! has made a difference in their lives, as they've made a difference in the lives of those around them.

Making a Difference in Special Education Students' Lives

See how Stampin' Up! makes a difference in the lives of these extraordinary students from Lincoln-Way High School. Their school's Special Education program uses card-making to help teach them life skills such as following directions, working in a team, resolving conflict, and believing in themselves. Watch and be inspired!

Stampin' Up! Demonstrators Making a Difference in Fiji

Demonstrators who earned the 2013 Fiji Grand Vacation had the opportunity to serve at the Treasure House Orphanage and Nadi Hospital. See highlights from their incredible experience working with the people of Fiji—it will inspire you to make a difference in the lives of those around you!

CARD: Punch Buggy!! Super cuteness

*PUNCH* Punch buggy (pun intended)!! Maybe you share in the tradition of punching your loved one in the arm whenever you see a Volkswagon Beetle? Our rules are that it has to be the old style VW Bug my parents had when I was little. It was all I could… Read More

MDS: New downloads in Full Bloom plus Free

It’s Tuesday and you know what that means-new downloads are in full bloom. (PDF) Straight from the annual catalog, the Gingham Garden Designer Series Paper pairs perfectly with the Kind & Cozy Stamp Brush Set. While the About to Blossom August Kit adds a bouquet of possibilities to the FREE… Read More

Boating Accident over the weekend

capsized boat1

A nice relaxing afternoon on the lake with my buds turned into anything but after my boat capsized in a freak accident yesterday! OMG! I'm still trying to grasp it all, it took hours to "sink" in that this is real last night.

My friends Cindy, Lisa & I are known as the "scream queens". Always up for adventure, chasing roller coasters and thrill rides...however yesterday we were just looking for a little relaxation and bbq. My kids had just left for scout camp for the week, and it was just the girls. We hopped in the boat (20' ski boat) and headed out for a little "putt" (aka" slow cruise") around the lake.

It was a busy afternoon on the water, lots of boats out enjoying the nice weather. About 5 minutes into our trip, we hit some big waves from a passing boat. My boat took water over the bow from the waves, which happens occasionally. However, something went terribly wrong this time. The nose went down and continued to fill the entire boat with water (with us still in it) and then the entire boat began to capsize. All within a matter of 2 minutes!! Cindy will tell you she was terrified, I never had a chance to be scared as it was happening because I still couldn't believe it was actually happening. At this point, the girls had swam out of the boat, it's starting to capsize and I'm still sitting in the drivers seat in shock...a captain about to go down in her boat. Thankfully all of the other boats in the area came to rescue, and I remember someone yelling to get out of the boat which snapped me back to the moment that I was about to be under this boat.

We all got out of it safely, thanks to God, my neighbors, friends and good people I don't know who were in passing boats and stopped to help. And also to my friend Lisa who insisted everyone wear their life jackets, not just keep them in the boat. Ok, confession, I still didn't have mine on it was under my feet - we were only doing 10mph. I thought what could possibly go wrong? Lisa was able to save her cell phone because had her life jacket on and could swim with one arm up (that's my public service announcement - life jackets save more than just lives, they save cell phones too).

I'm eternally grateful to all who helped us. It took a small army and a lot of good and smart people. I'm told we may even be able to save the boat, can't say the same for my phone.

Below: Scream Queens Cindy Ruggiero, Tami White & Lisa Schwartz.

scream queens

VIDEO: Taste the Rainbow of Butterflies Card

butterfly card-stampin upWowzers!!! This card is just fabulous. I'm calling it "Taste the Rainbow of Butterflies". One of my friends received it as a swap card at Stampin Up's convention last week, and from the minute she got it, the card went "viral" hehehe!! First it happened in person, when it got passed around our group so everyone could take a picture of it. Then the surrounding rows caught sight of the card, and everyone wanted a shot of it. I posted my picture of the card on my Facebook Page from the convention, and it was an instant success. There were so many responses and emails about it, I promised to share a video tutorial when I got back...so here I am, as promised:)

It's almost like a rainbow of the new 2013-15 In Colors: Strawberry Slush, Crisp Cantaloupe, Coastal Cabana, Pistachio Pudding and don't miss the card base of Baked Brown Sugar. The butterflies are from the Papillion Potpourri stamp set, and the Petite Pairs stamp set makes the card extremely versatile as you can simply swap out the birthday greeting for any occasion.

Card created by Sheryl Wheatly.

INSPIRATION SHEET

rainbow of butterflies-stampinup screen

Inspiration Sheet
Includes all measurements and supplies
Rainbow of Butterflies Card pdf

VIDEO

CARD: Ice Coffe to-go-cup with a straw

perfect blend-stampin upI think the Perfect Blend stamp set, or the Starbucks coffee cup set (my nickname), is one of my new favorite sets. I just love it. Here's a fun card from Sue McNeill. It features the new 2013-15 In color collection: Baked Brown Sugar, Coastal Cabana, Crisp Cantaloupe and Pistachio Pudding. The background is created with sponge daubers, dipped in the ink pads and dotted on Whisper White card stock.

My favorite part about this card is the coffee stirrer poked in the lid of the cup so it becomes a straw. Too stinkin' cute!!!

CARD: SImply Sketched Textured Flower

simply sketched-stampin upThis card is a beautiful sympathy card, created by Sue McQuiston. She is so talented. Sue is part of my demo group, and she made this card to swap at the Stampin Up Convention last week.

The Simply Sketched stamp set Sue used is a Hostess stamp set. You can get this set free when you have either $150 order, or are a club / workshop / ghost party hostess. You may also choose this set as part of your freebies if you are a Mystery Hostess winner (don't forget to enter the code with your orders).

DIRECTIONS:

  • Cut out the whisper white and old olive using the Oval Framelits
  • Stamp flower on white, then color with blender pens and ink pads
  • sponge edge of white oval with Olive ink
  • Texture white oval and primrose petals background with Square Lattice impressions folder

VIDEO: Stampin Around Wheels

stampin up stampin around wheels

Often I'm asked about the Stampin' Up - Stampin' Around Wheels. They are one of most unique products in our catalog...plus they're economical, they're simple to figure out, and they're really cool! Before we get to the project, let's quickly review some of the basics. Below is a great video from Carrie Cudney at the Home office on how to use the wheels.

HINTS & TIPS (shown on the video)

  • We have three types of wheels: standard, jumbo, and builder
  • To use them you'll need a handle.
  • We have a standard handle for the standard wheels, and a jumbo handle for jumbo and builder wheels.
  • To get the most out of a builder wheel, you'll also need the spindle and spacers.
  • Now besides a wheel and a handle, you are also going to need ink. Of, course you can ink up a wheel by rolling it over one of our ink pads but using a cartridge will provide more even ink coverage so it's easier to get a clear, even image. Cartridges also allow for continuous inking so you don't need to stop and re-ink.
  • Cartridges come in basic black or unlinked. Black has always been a top seller because several of the wheels contain line-art images that you can wheel in black, and then color in using other techniques.
  • Un-inked cartridges were designed for you to ink yourself in whatever color or fashion you desire -- so they are actually kind of fun.
    • To ink an unlinked cartridge, use tip of re-inker bottle to roll the roller so you don't get your fingers messy.
    • Cover the roller with ink until you can't see the natural sponge color anymore.
    • Ink a little while before you make your project so the ink has a chance to absorb and saturate the roller for more even coverage.
    • You can use coordinating marker to write the color on the label.
  • Our advice for using wheels is to practice first! Always get it going on a scrap paper. This lets you be sure your ink is flowing, your wheel is right side up and you're getting the look you want. There are lots of techniques for using wheels so play around with to decide which method feels the most comfortable for you.

VIDEO

NEW! Undefined Stamp Carving Kit

Undefined_banner

Have you ever wanted a stamp but couldn't find the perfect image? Maybe one of your customers has a special family logo or a sketch she'd like to have as a stamp. Well now she can! Undefined is Stampin' Up!'s new stamp carving product line. You define the rubber stamp any way you want.

When you carve your very own stamp, you have will have an entirely new and different creative experience. And when you're finished, you will have created a one-of-a-kind stamp!

How exactly do you carve a stamp? Check out this video tutorial:

Intrigued? We know you want to get your hands on the kit and start carving your own masterpieces. Here are the item numbers you'll need (we suggest adding a refill kit on your first order . . . trust us, you're gonna want it).

Undefined Stamp Carving Kit Undefined Stamp Carving Refill Kit
Undefined Stamp Carving Kit
Price: $19.95
Undefined Stamp Carving Refill Kit
Price: $9.95

Express your personality, thoughts, feelings, etc. with a stamp you've carved all on your own! We know you'll have a "look what I made!" moment.

We'd love to see what you make with your kit. Please e-mail us a photo of your creations and any projects you make with your carved stamps to undefined@stampinup.com so we can pin your photos to our Undefined Pinterest board!

CHECK IT OUT:
Here's a example created by Jen S, a photographer at Stampin' Up! Click here for the details of Jen's stamp and more ideas she camp up with.

 

MDS: Rise & Shine Pocket Cards and more

2013-07-23 MDSdownloads

I saw these Rise & Shine Pocket Cards in action at convention, they are awesome! Perfect for your everyday memory keeping. Well, they have arrived! And they are a must-have (along with all the other new downloads of course). PDF

VIDEO: Chalk Talk Chalkboard effects

chalk talk-stampwithtam-stampin up 1A little inspiration from the Apple store of all places! This was inspired by "chalk" like words they had on their windows, I saw it and immediately came home and started playing with the Chalk Talk stamp set and framelits. The chalk board is such a trendy and cool look, add on the Chevron impression folder and some Melon Mambo (because it makes me want to dance AND eat lol) and you've got instant fun. Check out my video tutorial below for a peek at one of my stamp club projects using the same set.

INSPIRATION SHEET

chalk talk screen shot

Inspiration Sheet
Includes all measurements and supplies
Chalk Talk Card pdf

Convention Highlights – #1 Salesperson OMG!

stampin up convention highlights

Stampin' Up!'s Annual Convention 2013
Celebrating 25 years!

Wow, what a whirlwind week of excitement it has been! So many stories from convention in Salt Lake City, UT. Many of you have been following me on Facebook and had the updates live, I will do a recap below in case you missed anything.

The biggest highlight for me, was being honored by Stampin Up as the #1 Salesperson in the company for 2013 (US)!!!!!!!
OMG!!! That really happened...I think...I know I didn't dream that! HUGE THANK YOU to all of my customers who made this happen. I can't tell you how much you mean to me and my family, I love you and I owe this honor to you. I hope to continue to provide the service, support and inspiration you deserve throughout this coming year.

I was also honored with # 2 Recruiter and #5 in Leadership. I was honored as one of the companies Top 100 Demonstrators of the Year / Founders circle. (sorry no #'s on this one, Stampin Up no longer ranks this category).

More of my favorite moments from convention:

  • Having a blast with my BFF's and demo group!! I <3 you gals, and miss you already
  • Our Stinkin' Cute pink t-shirts (thanks Esther!!!)
  • Prize Patrol!!! WE ALL won!!
  • Convention Bags
  • SWAPS!!! They are awesome this year!! I've even been posting some on my Facebook Page
  • Meeting the demos from UK, Australia and New Zealand. Not only are the excitable, they are inspirational and truly amazing.
  • Hearing Scott Nielson (CFO & former pitch for the New York Yankees) say "Go Sox" while emceeing Awards night when I was on stage! yes - that really happened!!
  • Setting a Guinness Book of World Records record for the most greeting cards mailed from 1 location
  • The ideas, the excitement and the energy from 5,800 friends
  • Stamping presentations, especially Bonnie Thurber...we laughed so hard we almost peed our pants (mental note for next time: go to the ladies room before Bonnie takes the stage)
  • Visiting with friends from all over the country and Canada that I only get to see a couple of times a year
  • New product announcements and sneak peeks!! I can't share all of them yet but be prepared to be WOWED!!
  • Hitting a career milestone of $900,000 in sales...guess what comes next?!?!
  • Susy Miller receives a stamping ovation as she is honored with the Heart of Stampin Up Award!! She has shaped the lives of so many demonstrators throughout her SU career. Susy continues to be an inspiration and a hero to so many as she battles ALS. We love you Susy!
  • My photo album of pictures from convention (click here)

Stampin' Up!'s Highlight Video

Look close, you may even find me in it - it's rare I make a highlights video!

CARD: Happy Day Smile

happy day-stampin upToday's beautiful card is from guest blogger, Linda Cullen of Crafty Stampin'. Linda uses some color inspiration and the Happy Day stamp set to create this wonderful card.

One of my favorite new stamp sets from the 2013 - 2014 Catalog is the Happy Day stamp set. We used it to make this fun simple card at Stamp Club last night.

- Linda

Color combo sm
I turned the above palette into Stampin' Up! colors:

Color blocks

CARD: Cup of Tea

Cup+of+TeaToday's card is from Siara Acdal from Siara's Sweet Sensations. Using the new Pistachio Pudding In color ink and card stock, along with the Tea Party stamp set. Very pretty!

VIDEO: Candy Camping Tent Projects

stampin up tent video

There are so many fabulous projects in the Annual Catalog and you may be wondering where do we get our inspiration for all of them? Many of the projects you see are original designs, but when we do need inspiration we look the same place you do, on the internet. That's where we found the pattern to make this clever tent favor found on Page 50 of the 2013-14 Annual Catalog.

DIRECTIONS

  • Just type in Summer Camp Tent Pattern in your search engine -- we choose this pattern featured at www.waffleflower.com.
  • We modified the tent so that it was closed on one side, so we drew in an extra flap. We also made the slit in tent longer.
  • Enlarged 133%
  • Copy onto Old Olive Cardstock
  • Cut and score
  • Then stamp using the Woodgrain background stamp.
  • Adhere using sticky strip and embellish.

We made a cute pennant for our tent.

  • Use a paper piercer to poke a hole in the top of tent for the pennant.
  • We used ABC-123 Outline Alphabet and Number stamp set on a Tangerine Tango Triangle. You can use this as favor for a camping theme birthday party or any other treat giving occasion. Your Stampin' Up! demonstrator can order any of the supplies you need to make these. If you don't have a demonstrator, visit our website to locate one near you. Have fun making this fun project. Until next time -- happy stamping!

CARD: Everything Eleanor WOW

everything eleanor-stampin upThis card is an eye-popping work of art!! A true WOW card, using fabulous layering taechniques to further enhance this amazing card. Featuring the Everything Eleanor, Secret Garden and Bring on the Cake (Birthday Wishes) stamp sets. Colors are Sahara Sand and Summer Starfruit. Ebellished layers include: Paper Doily Sizzlit, In Color Dahlias, Starfruit ribbon and more. I'll post a full list of supplies below.

this beauty was created by Gail Lowe, and there's a surprise when you open it! The inside is just as beautiful as the outside!

Be sure to follow my Facebook Page where I'll be posting exciting, up to the minute updates from Stampin' Up!'s Convention in Salt Lake City - it's a 25th anniversary celebration!!

everything eleanor-stampin up1 everything eleanor-stampin up2

VIDEO: Simply Pressed Clay & Buttons and Blossoms Clay Molds

Screen Shot 2013-07-16 at 9.20.39 AM

Simply Pressed Clay is white molding clay, found on page 167 of the 2013-14 Stampin' Up! Catalog. There are several different options for you to add color and create custom embellishments.

DIRECTIONS & TIPS:

  • You can add color by kneading ink into it (be sure to wear gloves.)
  • After it is dry you can color it with markers, spray it with reinker using a Stampin' Spritzer, or you can add some shimmer by spraying it with Smooch Spritz.
  • When using the Stampin' Spritzer, please note the depending on how much ink to water/alcohol you have will determine the hue of the color.
  • For stronger, bolder colors use more reinker, and for softer, subtler colors use less reinker.
  • The clay embellishments can air dry and can be handled delicately within five minutes. The embellishment will be fully dry in thirty minutes. You can pop them into the freezer to speed up drying but please don't put in oven; this will melt your molds.
  • To use the molds press a small amount of clay into the desired shape.
  • For the more delicate designs allow the clay to dry for a few minutes before trying to remove the embellishment.
  • You can create some fun accessories by taking advantage of the pliability of the clay before it's dry by poking a hole in the top to create a charm.

VIDEO:

SUPPLIES:

Simply Pressed Clay
Item: 130685
Buttons & Blossoms Simply Pressed Clay Molds
Item: 131272

Convention Bound! 25 Year Celebration

stampin up convention bound

So much excitement is in the air as I'm getting ready to head of to Stampin' Up!'s annual Convention in Salt Lake City, UT this week. 25 Years in the making and this year is one big celebration! 5,800 demonstrators from all over the world gathering to share in the excitement...gives me goosebumps just thinking about it.

We may even make the Guinness Book of World Records by sending more greeting cards from a single location at one time than ever before!! A representative from Guinness will be there and we will all be a part of it, how stinkin' exciting is that?!?! I can hardly stand it!!!

Stay tuned to my Facebook Page for live updates from convention.

SPECIAL: Mystery Hostess Code 2F77D23A thru July 31

mystery hostess event-july 31 stampwithtami

Enter to win $30 in FREE STAMPS at the same time! Now that's an offer no one can refuse lol. There may be multiple winners (depending on how many orders are placed using the code), so your chances are higher!

TO ENTER MYSTERY HOSTESS DRAWING:

  • Step 1: Place an order in my Online Store (min $25)
    now thru July 31, 2013
  • Step 2: ENTER HOSTESS CODE: 2F77D23A
    in the shopping cart at check out - see below for example

shop online

REMINDERS:

  • EVERYTHING in my Online Store Qualifies
  • Free Tutorial: with $50 min. online order.
  • Frequent Buyer Points: Earn 1 FBP w/ every $25 in orders, collect for Free Stamps
  • NOTE: ORDERS OVER $150 - DO NOT ENTER CODE You will automatically get Stampin' Rewards - $25 Free (and up) with orders over $150
    MYSTERY HOSTESS DETAILS
    • Winner Drawn:
      • Drawn on August 1, Via Random.org. Announced here my blog and Facebook page
      • Each $25 order placed in my online store using the Hostess Code will be automatically counted in the drawing.
      • For each $30 in Free Stampin' Rewards accumulated, I will draw a winner.
        • There may be multiple winners, making your chances of winning higher!

    IMPORTANT DON'T PLACE ORDER WITHOUT CODE:
    It can NOT be added later. If you have forgotten to use the code and placed your order, the only way to enter at this point would be to place another order.

    REMINDER: Orders over $150 should not use the hostess code
    This way you can be your own hostess...no need to await the drawing for free stamps. Take advantage of your own freebies with your order.

     

how to enter the mystery hostess code-aug 1

MDS: New Digital Downloads From Catalog Product

2013-07-16 mds downlaods stampin up

Since the release of the 2013-2014 annual catalog, we've rolled out several downloads inspired by traditional product. Well, this week, we went all out-every download (PDF) is from a catalog product! (Woot. Woot.)

These downloads are especially great for hybrid projects, and have many perks like the digital artwork has the ability to resize, recolor, and crop stamps.

learn more about mds my digital studio

WEEKLY DOWNLOADS

WINNERS DRAWN: Congrats to the July 15 Mystery Hostess Winners

2013-07 mystery hostess winners 1

Congratulations to all of the July 15 Mystery Hostess drawing!!! Everyone who used the Hostess code TPF7CEGJ was entered into this drawing (min $25 order) and each order accumulated towards these Hostess Rewards.

We have THREE winners of $30 FREE EACH!!!!

I entered the entire list of names into the Random.org List Randomizer today and above is the 3 Winners it chose!!!! Congrats to all who won the drawing and to ALL who were entered. Everyone was a winner – even if your name wasn’t chosen, everyone who was entered earned at least 1 Frequent Buyer Point & many also earned at least 1 Free Tutorial!! Sweet!

Stay tuned for a new Hostess code coming out today!

VIDEO: Grunge Swallowtail Surprise Card

swallowtail grunge - stampin up-combo

WOW! That was what I said when I saw this card designed by Ingrid Blackburn. I knew immediately I had to make it, it was too beautiful and eye catching to pass up. Featuring the Swallowtail Butterfly stamp, Dictionary and Gorgeous Grunge stamp sets in an eclectic mix that goes together so perfectly. I love the way the butterfly flows unto the back of the card for a little "surprise" for the recipient, and the cool way to make the Grunge Splatters look like watercolor paints.

It's amazingly easy to do, check out my video below for the instructions.

INSPIRATION SHEET

swallowtail-stampin up pdf

Inspiration Sheet
Includes all measurements and supplies
Grunge Swallowtail Surprise Card pdf

CARD: Chalk Talk Beauty

1850-250x300

Today's gorgeous creation is from Guest Blogger Liz Miller of Stampin' with Liz! Using the Cjalk Talk bundle - stamp set and framelits together with the Soho Subway Designer Paper for a beautiful birthday card for her daughter.

I made this card for my daughter’s upcoming 12th birthday. I used Crisp Cantaloupe Cardstock/Ink as it was the color of her graduation dress and it looked so good on her. : ) The splatter background is from the Hey There Paper Pumpkin kit.

~ Liz Miller

VIDEO: Crepe Paper Flower

stampin up crepe paper flower directionsWe want to show you how to make this cute Creped Filter Paper flower featured on page 25 of the annual catalog.

DIRECTIONS

  • Using Fun Flowers Bigz L Die, cut Creped Filter Paper (six layers for Tangerine Tango petals, and two layers for Daffodil Delight petals)
  • Load Brayer with ink from ink pad, roll color onto smooth side of creped paper. Repeat this step until desired color saturation is reached. May need to ink both sides of filter paper.
  • Layer flowers in staggered order.
  • Attach together with stapler or pierce center and use a brad.
  • Scrunch flowers from top down to get desired look.
  • Punch 3/4" circle from Old Olive Cardstock. Pierce center.
  • Prepare floral wire and thread through Old Olive Circle.
  • Attach to back of flower using hot glue.