A Passion for Stamps

DAY 3: TIP THREE OF TEN TIPS TO TAKING BETTER PICTURES

Do you scrapbook your photographs? Or do you feel your photos aren't scrapbook worthy because they never come out as well as you would like? Are you somewhat intimidated by taking photos, because you really don't know how to take good pictures?

Over the next week and a half, I am going to share Ten Tips that I learned from our friends at KODAK-the picture experts!  Once you've learned these tips and apply this knowledge to your photo shoots, you will see the quality of your pictures improve, and you'll feel much more confident about picture-taking! Be sure to check back here for a photo-taking tip each day, that will help you take better photographs with your digital camera!

The next step after taking good pictures, is knowing how to make great scrapbook pages with them! I teach rubber stamping and Scrapbooking 101 classes every month at my in-home studio in Hardyston NJ using Stampin' Up! stamps, Simply Scrappin'™ products and accessories, Designer Series Papers and much more, so make sure you check out my CLASS CALENDAR too! If you attend these classes in person each month, you will receive hands-on experience creating eye-appealing layouts, with attractive colors, titles and journaling-all necessary components to putting together a great scrapbook page! When you combine your newly found knowledge of good picture-taking, with the steps to creating fantastic scrapbook pages, you will be so excited to make some beautiful pages you and your family will cherish for years to come!

Tip#3: When Outdoors, Use Your Flash!

Ever take an outdoor picture and because of the sun, the face in your photo shows up in a dark shadow? Bright sun is the reason!  How can you avoid this? Use your flash on sunny days!

If you have a choice of fill-flash or full-flash mode, use the fill flash if your subject is closer than 5 feet or if it's a cloudy day; otherwise use the full-flash mode. If using a digital camera, check out the results with the picture display.

Why use the flash? It will eliminate the shadows caused by the sun and brighten up their  faces.

On an overcast day, you can also get away with taking a photo without the flash because the lighting is softer than on a sunny day. Give it a try!

Thanks for visiting! Be sure to return tomorrow for the photo tip #4!

Passionately scrapping,

Day 2: Tip Two of Ten Tips to Taking Better Pictures!

Do you scrapbook your photographs? Or do you feel your photos aren't scrapbook worthy because they never come out as well as you would like? Are you somewhat intimidated by taking photos, because you really don't know how to take good pictures?

Over the next week and a half, I am going to share Ten Tips that I learned from our friends at KODAK-the picture experts!  Once you've learned these tips and apply this knowledge to your photo shoots, you will see the quality of your pictures improve, and you'll feel much more confident about picture-taking! Be sure to check back here for a photo-taking tip each day, that will help you take better photographs with your digital camera!

The next step after taking good pictures, is knowing how to make great scrapbook pages with them! I teach rubber stamping and Scrapbooking 101 classes every month at my in-home studio in Hardyston NJ using Stampin' Up! stamps, Simply Scrappin'™ products and accessories, Designer Series Papers and much more, so make sure you check out my CLASS CALENDAR too! If you attend these classes in person each month, you will receive hands-on experience creating eye-appealing layouts, with attractive colors, titles and journaling-all necessary components to putting together a great scrapbook page! When you combine your newly found knowledge of good picture-taking, with the steps to creating fantastic scrapbook pages, you will be so excited to make some beautiful pages you and your family will cherish for years to come!

TIP #2: KEEP THE BACKGROUND SIMPLE!

Pay attention to not only the subject of your photo, but also the surroundings. What is in the background? Is there anything that can be distracting or take away from the subject? When you are looking through the viewfinder of your camera, if you see anything that will interfere with a good picture, have the subject move or try finding a different location that has a simple background.

In this photo, it looks like there are tree branches growing out of my head:

 

In this photo, by simply shifting in front of the Forsynthia bush, this makes for a better less distracting background:

Before you take a picture, be wary of what is in the background, and make adjustments before you click that button. 

Thanks for visiting! Be sure to return tomorrow for the next photo tip!

Passionately scrapping,

Day 1: Ten Tips to taking better pictures!

Do you scrapbook your photographs? Or do you feel your photos aren't scrapbook worthy because they never come out as well as you would like? Are you somewhat intimidated by taking photos, because you really don't know how to take good pictures?

Over the next week and a half, I am going to share Ten Tips that I learned from our friends at KODAK-the picture experts!  Once you've learned these tips and apply this knowledge to your photo shoots, you will see the quality of your pictures improve, and you'll feel much more confident about picture-taking! Be sure to check back here for a photo-taking tip each day, that will help you take better photographs with your digital camera!

The next step after taking good pictures, is knowing how to make great scrapbook pages with them! I teach rubber stamping and Scrapbooking 101 classes every month at my in-home studio in Hardyston NJ using Stampin' Up! stamps, Simply Scrappin'™ products and accessories, Designer Series Papers and much more, so make sure you check out my CLASS CALENDAR too! If you attend these classes in person each month, you will receive hands-on experience creating eye-appealing layouts, with attractive colors, titles and journaling-all necessary components to putting together a great scrapbook page! When you combine your newly found knowledge of good picture-taking, with the steps to creating fantastic scrapbook pages, you will be so excited to make some beautiful pages you and your family will cherish for years to come! Are you ready to learn your first tip?

TIP #1: MEET YOUR SUBJECT ON THEIR LEVEL!

Instead of taking a photo of your pet, your child or another subject while standing up, try getting down on the level of your subject with your camera, and meeting them eye-to-eye!  Direct eye contact will capture the true essence of the shot and will give the effect of actually being there with that subject at that precise moment! Simply kneel down so your camera is at eye-level, focus on your subject up-close, then wait for that captivating smile, laugh or other facial pose you want to capture and take the picture.

Other tips for photographing children come from Michael Crouser, who has produced two books about black and white photography. Young children will be much more cooperative when you allow them to be photographed in a natural setting for them, or in their favorite hero outfit! Always take photos of the older child first, and the younger one will want the attention as well, which means a better photo-with cooperation! Keep things as natural as possible-and that includes NOT having the subject say "cheese" which only produces a phony or exaggerated smile. Also try to take outdoor photos in the shade rather the sun, so the subject doesn't have to squint. For indoor photos, try to find alternatives for the direct flash. Wedding photographers avoid using it!

Pets can do funny things that we want to capture in a photo forever...I wish I could find the photo of my cat when she winks at me, but I'm not sure where that one is so here is one of Snickers, our four-year old Silky Terrier that I captured of bath time:

 

Had I taken this photo taken higher up it just would not have captured the look on his adorable little face! Don't you feel as if you can just reach out and touch Snickers? His expression is-priceless-and that's what I wanted to capture! This is a great photo to scrapbook...

Let's see what you can do with this tip-give it a try! I'd love to see some of your pictures so email them to me if you like...and I may feature some of them! Keep practicing taking eye-level pictures, focusing in on your subject-and keep the background simple (but more on that topic-tomorrow!).

Passionately scrapping,

Three days left to sign up for May Trendy Techniques classes...

It's that time again to sign up for Trendy Techniques classes being held NEXT WEEK! Last day to sign up is Monday May 10TH!

At each class you'll make:

(1) a Technique Page (6x6) with the rubber stamping technique done on the front and instructions on the back, and

(2) a matching card with envelope using the technique!

We make 3-4 Rubber Stamping Techniques each month depending on the difficulty of the techniques-some are more time-consuming than others. Within 6 months, (should you attend every month) you'll complete an album with 20 technique pages!

You can save $5 per class and 15% on an album when you purchase it when you register for your first class (which you can do now-online from this site!) and each class is only $15! The album is a 6x6 album (you select the color you want) and holds up to 20 Rubber Stamping techniques!

...Or, if you opt out of purchasing the album, you pay only $20 per class. Either way, you will go home with 3-4 of both the 6x6 technique instruction page/sample and an actual card/envelope per technique!

The fee for this class is increasing in July-BUT if you purchase your Stampin' Up! album from me in May or June, you'll pay the currently lower price until your album is completed-so join now to lock in the savings!

If you live in northern NJ, Eastern PA or Southern NY, Sussex County is not a long drive, so come and attend these classes in Hardyston NJ!

To find out when these rubber stamping classes and other classes such as Scrapbooking 101, Scrap nights, embellishments and Stamp-A-Stack card classes are being held, or to sign up and attend, click on the Calendar at the right or click HERE. For class location or if you have any questions, email me.

Are you interested in me offering other papercrafting classes? What specific classes would you be interested in? Please leave me a comment at the end of this post....

Have a great stamping day!

LAST DAY TO GET FIFTH AVENUE FLORAL FOR MOTHER'S DAY-AT 20% OFF!

Today is the LAST DAY to take advantage of the two-step into Spring special offered by Stampin' Up ONLY through April 30th!  This means great sets like Greenhouse Garden, Fifth Avenue Floral, Flower Fancy and Trendy Trees are only available at 20% off TODAY only...

I just showed you a card we're making with the Watercolor Trio set that will be available in the new 2010-2011 Stampin' Up! Idea Book & Catalog coming out in July...(and we're making it tonight at our April Stamp-A-Stack Card Camp!)

Here is another terrific card I created, that we're making at this camp which you can still purchase today at 20% off-it's called Fifth Avenue Floral:

 

Isn't this a beautiful card for a mom? It features the Fifth Avenue stamp set (on sale for 20% off-today only!),  the Perfect Polka Dots Textured Impressions Folder and Well Scripted stamp set (available in the Occasions Mini catalog, which ALSO expires after today), and various punches including the Eyelet Border, Oval Scallop and Wide Oval.

The rose has been watercolored with a really simple technique using ink refills-doesn't it look REAL??? It looks like it has just been plucked from the garden! The leaves have been made by slightly altering the Sizzlit Little Leaves Die...

The red Satin ribbon just finishes the card off beautifully, and the sentiment can be altered so this card can also be used for an anniversary, birthday or "thinking of you" card...

Lucky attendees at today's Stamp-A-Stack Card Camp will be making three of this card, along with three each of 3 other cards made with Two-Step sets that are all 20% off through April 30! (twelve cards in all!)

YOU CAN STILL PURCHASE THESE STAMP SETS AT 20% OFF by visiting my stamp store HERE

So-what do YOU think of this card? Please leave me a comment and let me know!  Doesn't it make you want to sign up for NEXT month's classes?  You don't want to miss these...we always make terrific stuff! My goal is to tap into the creativity within YOU! YES-YOU CAN make beautiful cards like these...just sign up for classes I offer and LEARN HOW!  Be sure to come back soon and check out the Calendar on the right side bar for upcoming classes!

Have a GREAT stampin' day!

Make 12 cards at upcoming Stamp-A-Stack Card Camp-still openings!

If you like making a lot of cards at one time, this is the camp to attend! EXTENDING registration for one more day! Sign up by 4/28 to attend on 4/30 or 5/1.... Here is one of the beautiful cards you will make using Watercolor Trio-a new stamp set sneak peek preview! 

This card is made using the Top Note Die and the Big Shot Die cut machine... for more info about the camp or to sign up click on the CALENDAR on the right sidebar of this blog. Get discount bonus towards future purchase for each friend you register too!

Remember, this offer ends at midnight on April 28! (Class is held in Hardyston NJ)

Recent Stamping Technique Classes I've Offered...

Do you love learning new techniques?  Isn't it exciting to try some cool new way of using products like brush markers, embossing inks and powders, and even common household products such as bleach or floor wax?  Become a kid again using Watercolor Crayons, or create masterpieces with the Brayer and some ink!

I recently started up my Trendy Techniques class again...here are some of the techniques we did in March & April:

MARCH TRENDY TECHNIQUES CLASS:

Moonlighting Technique:

 

This is another card I've made with this technique:

  Grid Technique 

Stained Glass Technique

APRIL TRENDY TECHNIQUES CLASS:

Crayon Resist Technique

 

Emboss Resist

 

Dazzling Diamonds Dust Technique

 

These are some of the color variations of this technique I came up with while playing around with different colors for this 2 step stamping set, Flower Fancy:

Almost Amethyst & Lovely Lilac, Barely Banana & So Saffron; Orchid Opulence & Lovely Lilac, YoYo Yellow & Summer Sun:

Pretty in Pink & Regal Rose, and Barely Banana & So Saffron, Lovely Lilac & Orchid Opulence

 

Brilliant Blue & Bashful Blue, and Apricot Appeal & Pumpkin Pie

If you enjoy learning new Techniques, I offer several classes each month, usually on the 2nd Tuesday (day class) and Wednesday (evening class).

I'll post soon what the techniques for May will be...so be sure to come and check it out! Classes will also be posted on the Calendar (right side bar) on my blog A Passion for Stamps, and in Events for my Stampin' Up! website as well.

I'd like to hear what you think of these cards...these techniques are so much fun!  Please leave me a comment...which one of these do you like the most, and why?

HAVE A GREAT STAMPIN' DAY!

Come join the FUN at 5 Minutes for Mom's 2010 Ultimate Blog Party!

Hi there! Are you a mom? Looking for some fun? Then listen up! 

I've been a fan of 5minutesformom.com for a few years now. (I even have a link for the site on the right sidebar under "Other Sites I visit").  It's a wonderful site that I know you will find very helpful too!  ( I just wish I had access to such a site when my kids were little!) But it still is a wonderful site-even when your kids grow up! 

I'm finding out about this towards the end of this event, but IT'S NOT TOO LATE...to tell you about the 2010 ULTIMATE BLOG PARTY Susan & Janice are having over there at 5 Minutes For Mom's--through 11:59 EST April 16th! It's all about meeting people!  It's a wonderful way to meet lots of other moms, and entrepreneurs by checking out other blogs, Facebook pages and Twitter Tweets! If you have a blog, you can add it to their list as well! Plus, there are entries for the fabulous prizes you can win too!

If you are new to my site, I am a mom with 2 kids- a 21 year old son who is in the USCG, and a 17 year old daughter who is a junior in High School.  My husband Tom also have 2 dogs-1 ten-year old beagle named Shiloh, a five year old Silky Terrier named Snickers, and one 14 year old Calico cat named Patches.

I have my own rubber stamping business and am an Independent Demonstrator/Creative Coach! I love what I do-which is to teach folks how to create awesome greeting cards, papercrafts, scrapbooks and even home decor using stamps, papers and accessories offered in a catalog put out annually by a 20 year old company called Stampin' Up! based in Utah.  I've been demo for over 14 years, and started when my son was 7 and my daughter was 3. I love having my own business-it has enabled me to be able to raise our children and still earn an income! I do home parties, birthday parties (on occasion), classes and other events from my home studio located in Sussex County, NJ. Feel free to browse my blog, check out free projects, and also see what classes are coming up!

You can check out various catalogs, and if you see something you want you can even place an order 24/7 if you want-in your PJ's! Please email me if you have any questions at all about my site ! Don't forget to become a fan of A Passion for Stamps on Facebook and follow me on Twitter too! (links on left) for lots of creative ideas! Thanks for stopping by!

Come and join the Blog Party-there's still plenty of time!  Just click on the banner at the top of this post! I'm ready to PARTY! How about you?

Please leave me a comment to this post to be entered into a drawing for Blog candy! Tell me what you think of this blog, and what you think of the Ultimate Blog Party! You have until April 30th to respond! The drawing will be on May 1st, and the winner will receive a packet of stamping gifts from me!

I'd love to hear from you!

HAPPY PARTYING!

Here's my Easter Card-Easter Blessings to you!

I'm sorry to post this so late in the day on Easter Sunday, but we were up early, went to church, drove to my mom's, went to dinner and just got home a short while ago! The day isn't over yet, though-so I wanted to start the week off with a blog post-what better way to do that than to show you my Easter Card: (click on image for larger view)

 

I love the Abundant Hope stamp set in the Occasions Mini Catalog...Daffodils are one of my favorite Spring flowers and pink is different, isn't it? I watercolored the image on watercolor paper with ink refills and an Aqua Painter, then layered it onto other colored cardstocks.  I colored Styled Silver Hodgepodge Hardware for the pretty double ribbon embellishment on the left.  I featured this technique in my March Customer Newsletter!

If you haven't joined my newsletter which I send out to my (CUSTOMER) email list every month, you are missing out on alot of great information:, techniques, scrapbooking ideas, specials, Customer Q&A, etc.

My April newsletter will be going out sometime mid-week-so if you want to receive a copy, look on the left side bar for:

Newsletter with specials, classes, and news!

then enter your email address to join my (CUSTOMER) email list! 

If you would like to order this stamp set (available only through April 30) or any other products, you can place an online order any time 24/7 by going HERE then click on the SHOP NOW link!

BECOME A FAN of A Passion for Stamps! Click on my Facebook link on the left sidebar for exclusive offers, contests and lots more creative sharing!

Do you enjoy scenery cards like this? I just love doing landscapes...so I've decided I will be offering some classes in the upcoming months to teach you how to make stunning landscapes and realistic flowers too!

Enjoy this beautiful day, gorgeous weather!

Happy Easter to all!

Got away on Saturday with other stamping downline!

I'm so lucky to have been able to meet up with one of my downline and her sister, with a group of Split Coast Stampers in Poughkeepsie NY this past Saturday for a shoe box swap! We had a great day stamping, swapping, and learning new things! A shoebox swap is when we each make a card and then prepare pre-cut supplies and products for everyone else to make our project-then at the event, we all make everyone elses projects! So much fun!  I came home with over twenty projects, several make and takes, and a pretty swirled punch I received in a gift swap! What a great day of stamping!

Here is my shoe box project I shared with everyone:

I used the Tea Party Designer Series paper with the new Scallop Trim Border Punch (one of the FREE Sale-A-Bration products you can get with any $50 order-but only for one more day! This special is good through March 31 only!)

The Leaves & Stem is from the Sweetheart Set (#120780) (both the Sweetheart Set and the Heart Treat Cups ( (#120435)) are both available for order through July and will also be in the new Idea Book & Catalog when it comes out). I used Always Artichoke ink and Green Galore Card Stock (#105219) on (#101768).

The greeting is from Sincere Salutations set (#115068).

The floral embellishment is three deep-Melon Mambo (#115320), Barely BananaPumpkin Pie (#102701) and (#105117) Card Stock, all punched with the Scallop punch, then I cut each flower section on all three parts using the Paper Snips (#103579).I used Stampin' Dimensionals (#104430) to pop the flower up off the card..

Here is a close-up view of the flower from a different angle:

I alternately layered the three different colored scalloped flowers and slightly bent them upward before punching a hole with the 1/16" Circle punch and inserting a pink Corduroy brad (#117681) from the Occasion Mini Catalog (good through April 30) in the center.

If you would like to purchase any of the products to make this card, visit my online store then click on the SHOP NOW button under my contact information!  If you have any questions, please email me.

Isn't this the sweetest spring card? It would certainly lift someone's spirits...and you can make it in no time! What do you think of it? Do you think you would make this card for someone who isn't feeling well?

Thanks for stopping by!  Come back and visit again tomorrow!

Don't miss out on new class for spring: Trendy Techniques!

Spring forward with your stamping expertise by adding an all new Trendy Techniques Class to your calendar! If are curious to learn some of the techniques you've seen in magazines or elsewhere, here is the class* where you can learn them! I have two options for you to choose from!

TRENDY TECHNIQUES CLASS is coming!

Wednesday March 31 (TWO SESSIONS): 12-2PM OR 7-9 PM 

LAST DAY TO REGISTER, & PRE-PAY TO RESERVE YOUR SEAT IS Sunday March 28! 

Option 1: Treat yourself to a few hours each month at this fun class where you will learn at least three new techniques, while making your projects AND you will also be making the instruction sample for your own Trendy Techniques Book!  (This Option saves you $5 at every class!)

Option 2: You can just make the projects (no technique book) if you aren't interested in building your own reference library of techniques!

REFFERAL INCENTIVE:

a) For each friend (that I don't know) that you initially sign up for class you will receive a $1 STAMP PASSION BUCK (a credit you can use towards a future purchase when you accumulate $10 worth!)

b) If that same friend places a net order of at least $25 at that class, you will receive an additional $1 STAMP PASSION BUCK! 

For specific details regarding each option and/or to sign up click HERE. Don't forget the deadline to RSVP is 3/28!

Hope to see you at class!

*class is held at stamp studio in Hardyston NJ

Come stamp at Spring Stamp-A-Stack Card Camp!

Note to readers: I have not been able to keep up with posting the past few weeks, since my mother became very ill and was hospitalized on and off. I've been tending to her responsibilities during her illness and taking care of her and my aunt who is in a retirement home. As long as she continues to improve, I am hopeful that I'll be able to resume my posts again on a more regular basis.

Tuesday March 16 is the last day to sign up for the upcoming Spring Stamp-A-Stack Card Camp this Friday and Saturday at the Stamp Studio, Hardyston, NJ! Come and make 12 cards!

Also, the Trendy Techniques Class that was to have started  on March 10 has been postponed and is now taking place on Wednesday March 31-morning and evening sessions available! The last day to sign up for this class is March 28. Learn 3-4 techniques every month, while building your own sample book of techniques too!

I haven't been able to update my Stampin' Up! website Events Page, but you can view and sign up for my remaining upcoming classes for March here from this blog. You can see more details about both of these classes, as well as RSVP and prepay by clicking on the Calendar on the right side bar of this blog. I hope to see you there to WELCOME SPRING!

 

Have a great stampin' day!

Lions, punches and BUNNIES-OH MY!

Well, I'm gearing up for my punches class this weekend...just returned from a great weekend on Long Island with my dad, followed by some fun with Jan and other demonstrators on my S.O.S. Team in Connecticut. We had a great time-stamping, sharing, eating, laughing and just plain old fun with the girl's at Jan's Rubber Room! This was the first time I got to see her new stamp room, which is just amazing!

Jan and I both had projects planned for everyone to make. Mine was a Stand-up Bunny Card inspired by Jackie Topa that is just so cute, and Jan's was a Bunny Top Note Treat Box filled with grass and jelly beans-made with the Top Note die! If you come to Punch Art Card Class you will make them, but TODAY is the last day to sign up, which you can do by clicking on the CALENDAR on the  right sidebar. Here they are:

      

Heather decided to make her bunny into a WALRUS!:                                                   Isn't this creative?

Another Punch Art Card Class project is this adorable LION M&M                                  card made with the Heart Treat Cups:

(and you don't have to rip the card open to get the candy out!)

Aren't they all adorable? At class you will learn how to make                                      these cuties and a few more other punch cards! Remember                                           to register for Punch Art Card Class today!

Have a great stampin' day!

Sign up for PUNCH ART Card Class! & Heart Treat Cups offer is extended!

I'm so happy to let you know that Stampin' Up! is making the Heart Treat Cups AND the Sweetheart stamp set available THROUGH JULY and BOTH will be offered in the new Idea Book & Catalog! The catch is, the Heart Treat Cups will continue to be available now, ONLY while supplies last  through July, so if you need a bunch before then for a spring or early summer occasion, better order them now, before they run out! 

If you haven't purchased the Heart Treat Cups, you don't know what you are missing!  Go HERE to see what they are.

The Heart Treat Cups were so popular and it's no wonder why- they were wonderful additions to cards and projects for Valentine's Day, but their usefulness certainly does not end there!

Think of the possibilities! These heart shaped plastic cups can be filled almost anything imaginable (that is small of course) for ANY occasion! Have an anniversary coming up? What a great way to say "you'll always be in my heart" and fill it will red hots, heart shaped candies etc. It's great for gifts too...not just cards-for occasions such as weddings, engagements, birthdays for children, and more! You will also need to order the Large Heart Punch too to make your projects. Remember, until March 31, any orders you place that are $50 or more qualify you for a FREE choice of any product or stamp set in the 2010 Sale-A-Bration Catalog...a bonus you will ONLY receive until March 31, 2010!

One of the cards we will be making at our Punch Art Card Classes coming up IN A WEEK in Sussex County NJ  is made with the Heart Treat Cup-and it's just adorable...it's a LION! When you send these cards, they will MAKE A STATEMENT! and will be remembered for a long time to come!

Please join us at our Punch Art Card Classes being offered on 2/26 7-9 and 2/27 10-12 for only $18! We will be making a bunch of cards which will utilize punches to make clever cards that are VERY popular!  You will absolutely LOVE the cards you will go home with...for more details and to pay right now, just click on the Calendar on the right side bar! But HURRY! Last day to register is FEBRUARY 23!

Hope to see you there!

Stampingly yours,

A Big Shot Project-Candle Gift for a Friend!

I'm so excited because this weekend, I'm going to visit my dad on Saturday who lives at my brother's house on Long Island NY  (my dad had a stroke right before Thanksgiving and I couldn't see him till now). I haven't seen him since May, when we went to Manhattan for our new nephew's baptism.  

On Sunday I'm going to catch the Ferry at Orient Point to New London, CT then drive to Pawcatuck to visit Jan Eno, a dear friend and one of my directs in my Stampin' Up! downline-and I look forward to visiting with some of the girls in her downline and stamping with them this weekend!! I will be staying at Jan's until Monday, and I wanted to make her a thank you gift for her hospitality; so I decorated this candle using the Fabric Floral Embellishment I made with the Big Shot in my previous post:

Here's a photo of the back:

and a close-up:

It just so happened that the colors of the fabric matched up perfectly with our Polka-dot IN color ribbons, and the buttons and rhinestone brads coordinated as well! I embossed the saying on tissue paper, wrapped wax paper around it then heat embossed the words onto the candle.

Because of the fabric, this candle cannot be lit as it is. Before I attached the embellishments, I lit the candle and let it melt down a bit in the center. Then I inserted the Tea Light candle into the melted wax. Now the candle can be lit because the flame will stay in the middle, and the candle is protected by the metal tea light holder! When it burns out, it's replaceable!  Here is a photo from the top, so you can see how it looks when it's done:

To make this candle, I used all Stampin' Up! products:

STAMPS: Spring Song saying (115074) $15.95

INK: Taken with Teal Craft Pad (100617) $7.50

PAPER: none

ACCESSORIES: Stampin' Up! Flower Folds die (115970) $42.95 on page 201 of the current Stampin' Up! Idea Book & Catalog; Summer Sun Corduroy Buttons (114343) $9.95; Circle Ice Turquoise Rhinestone Brads (109111) $10.95; Crushed Curry (115614) and Bermuda Bay (115610) 1/2" Polka-Dot Grosgrain Ribbons $9.95;Sticky Strip (104294) $6.95; Extended Cutting Pads (113478) $19.95; Big Shot Die-Cut machine (113439) $99.95; Clear Embossing Powder (109130) $4.75; Heat Tool (100005) $29.95

Non-SU: about 1/4 yard coordinating fabrics (3-4 assorted); White Pillar Candle and base; Tea Light Candle

You can purchase these products ONLINE to make this candle right now from my website stampwithdeb.stampinup.net, and you will also qualify for several FREE Sale-A-Bration products! So what are you waiting for? Be a Big Shot with Fabric too! Or, sign up now for my next Big Shot class in March and make this candle, and more fabric projects with the Big Shot! I can't wait to show you!

I hope you've enjoyed this project-thanks for stopping by!

Stampingly yours,

Be a BIG SHOT with FABRIC!

This beautiful 3-D Fabric Flower is just one of the items we will be making at our Be a BIG SHOT with FABRIC class this Friday! Didn't sign up in time? The same class will be offered again on Sunday March 7 from 1-3:30. (To sign up for this and my other upcoming classes, click on the calendar on the right sidebar.)

I'm so excited about using fabric materials with the Big Shot! I am not a seamstress, and really try to stay away from sewing if I can, because it's not my favorite hobby! That's why I'm in love with the Big Shot machine! It can be used with 50 other materials as well! I always provide new Big Shot class attendees with this handout, so they can go home and try them out with their Big Shot machine.

What's great is you can make this flower in ten minutes! It's fun and it's easy! So what do you do with these flowers?  Attach a pin back and add to a coat, purse, headband or use it as an  embellishment for anything-a card, a scrap book cover, a belt and so on...there are many uses for these flowers! These floral flowers are all the rage in the fashion world right now, and they are very pricey ranging from $15-$50 each at fancy boutiques! But now you can learn how to make them at a fraction of the cost of what you would pay elsewhere!

To order, go to my website stampwithdeb.stampinup.net or send an email to deb@debbiestamps.com 

National Salute of 21 guns for Presidents Day

Courage Tile: I make these tiles and sell them individually or in sets of 4.  I also sell them at Craft Fairs. This is made with the Courage Set (115330 $19.95) found on page 67 of the current Stampin' Up! Idea Book & Catalog. It's a two stamp set; in addition to this stamp there is a word stamp that reads "Courage is rightly esteemed the first of human qualities, because it is the quality that guarantees all others.-Winston Churchill" It's a great set! If you are interested in purchasing this stamp set, you can order it from my website www.stampwithdeb.stampinup.net. If you are interested in purchasing the tiles, and/or the coordinating stamped box that holds four of them, email deb@debbiestamps.com for more information.

Today is Presidents Day.  Our son is in the United State Coast Guard, so we receive Coast Guard feed updates.

It's interesting to learn that Coast Guard members on Coast Guard Island (CA) will fire the national salute of 21 guns today at noon in honor of Presidents Day.  The salute takes about a minute and 45 seconds to complete.  The Coast Guard warns surrounding communities that there will be loud noise produced by the blank rounds when fired.

This is a time honored naval tradition which dates back centuries, when it was customary for a ship entering a friendly port to discharge its cannon to demonstrate that they were unloaded.

The following information is provided by the United States Navy with the issuance of new regulations on 24 May 1842. Those regulations laid out the specifics:

"When the President of the United States shall visit a vessel of the navy, he shall be received with the following honors: The yards shall be manned, all the officers shall be on deck in full uniform, the full guard shall be paraded and present arms, the music shall play a march, and a salute of twenty-one guns shall be fired. He shall receive the same honors when he leaves the ship."
"Upon the anniversary of the Declaration of Independence of the United States, the colors shall be hoisted at sunrise, and all the vessels of the navy shall, when in port, be dressed, and so continue until the colors are hauled down at sunset, if the state of the weather and other circumstances will allow it. At sunrise, at meridian, and at sunset, a salute of twenty-one guns shall be fired from every vessel in commission mounting six guns and upwards."
"On the twenty-second day of February, the anniversary of the birth of Washington, a salute of twenty-one guns shall be fired at meridian from every vessel of the navy in commission mounting six guns and upwards."

To read more go to: http://www.history.navy.mil/faqs/faq40-1.htm

Other occasions when the salute is fired are in honor of the national flag, the sovereign or chief of state of a foreign nation, a member of a reigning royal family, and the President, ex-President, and President-elect of the United States. It is also fired at noon of the day of the funeral of a President, ex-President, or President-elect, on Washington’s Birthday, and the Fourth of July.

It's nice to know the history behind the traditions of our armed forces especially how it relates to Presidents Day. Have a nice day!

Versamark-CLEARLY the answer!

Have you ever found yourself in a predicament when you started a stamp project such as making a card, then you realize you don't have the right color Ink Pad? You have a picture in your mind of the tone-on-tone look you want for your card (ink that is just a shade or two darker than the cardstock you are using) but without that color Ink Pad, what will you do now?  (Not EVERYONE has all 48 colors of Stampin' Up! inks in their stash!) So...you have a dilemma. Do you start the card over using a different color cardstock, and change things up a bit based on an Ink Pad color you already do have? Now you have to start over, and you really need this card in a hurry!

You don't have to get caught off guard like this again! There is a simple solution to this problem so NEXT time, you aren't stuck without the right Ink Pad color. Yes, you COULD order all the other Classic Stampin' Up! Ink Pads you don't have (or whatever brand of ink you are using) but you'll be happy to learn that you don't have to do that-unless you really want to-I won't stop you!

There IS another solution to this problem...and one pad will always come to your rescue-VersaMark is CLEARLY the answer! Why is this one pad the solution to your problem? Because  VersaMark Ink is a watermark ink...a CLEAR ink, which when stamped on colored cardstock, will give the effect of a darker shade of the same color-(tone-on-tone) like a watermark! So if you purchase this one ink pad, you will be able to have a darker shade of every colored cardstock paper you own!

(yes, mine is WELL used and loved)

But there is something else I want to make perfectly clear-the VersaMark Pad isn't solely a watermark pad, it's an embossing pad too!  There are so many things you can do with a VersaMark pad, that I'm going to teach a class on it!

Be on the lookout for this Trendy Techniques Class coming up in March and be sure you sign up for it! (The Calendar on the right will be updated shortly). You will learn some of the techniques you can do with a VersaMark Ink Pad, such as Clear Embossing, Color Embossing, Tone-on-Tone, Poppin' Pastels, etc.! You will want to have your own VersaMark ink pad for this class, so if you want to order one yourself, you can do so from my online store- www.stampwithdeb.stampinup.com anytime, 24/7-or email deb@debbiestamps.com if you would like me to order it for you-and I'll send you a PayPal invoice.

Ordering Information:

102283 VersaMark Pad  $7.50

Other similar products you may want to purchase:

102193 VersaMark Pad Refill (1/2 oz) $3.95                                                                100901 VersaMarker (for coloring in) $3.25 

Embossing Powders: See page 190 of the Stampin' Up! Catalog 

CLEARLY, this will be one of the best little pad investments you will ever make!

How can I decorate my walls without damaging them?

Have you ever wondered if there is an easy way to decorate your walls? I have the perfect solution for you!

Stampin' Up! has several wonderful products, one of which is called Decor Elements! It's a vinyl wall art that provides a way to decorate your walls (and most hard surfaces) quickly, yet is easy to remove when you want to change it!

We have a living room with a cathedral ceiling.. and for almost 10 years, I was trying to figure out how to decorate a cathedral ceiling, and could never make up my mind, so it has remained blank all this time.

When Stampin' Up! came out with their Decor Elements Collection and I saw Tree, Thoughts & Prayers Design, available in 3 sizes up to 52 inches wide and in two colors, I realized THIS IS WHAT I'VE BEEN WAITING FOR! I totally loved the sample shown in their Fall-Winter 2009 Definitely Decorative brochure, which added lovely doves coming out of the tree with the saying "Go confidently in the direction of your dreams." by Henry David Thoreau. So-after 9 years of undecision, I finally had a plan for our living room wall!

Here is what it looks like after the images were applied: (click on image for larger view)

I plan to add an oval mirror between the two photos under the tree-or I may move our TV/ Curio Cabinet under this-so I placed the Decor Elements design high enough to accomodate either choice. Here is a close-up of the image after applied to the wall:

 

Although my photograph appears crooked,

the design is perfectly straight on the wall!

   

So just WHAT ARE Decor Elements? It's Stampin' Up!'s designs, and colors in various sizes of the latest craze in home decor! This product enables you to add a seasonal creation to your home walls very quickly!

Stampin' Up! also offers Decor Stencils too, for those more artistic who want to be able to select their own colors, and want to add creative shading. This takes a bit longer to achieve then simply using Decor Elements but enables those who are more creative to come up individual styles that suit their tastes.

If you are not confident you can do this, start with something small and simple-maybe applying a Decor Element to a decorative jar, lamp, candle or even your laptop!  Then, as you acquire more confidence and skill move on to bigger projects. 

Whichever product you choose to try, you are sure to love the variety of designs and colors Stampin' Up! offers.

Did you know if you have any type of Stampin' Up! party or place orders of $150 or more, you can also select a hostess item from Level One of the Decor Elements brochure? There are actually three additional levels of hostess gifts available to you from this brochure, in addition to the Idea Book & Catalog and the Occasions Mini Catalog! Then you are also entitled to at least $15 in other catalog product for free!

Right now, during Sale-A-Bration (until March 31, 2010), you and your friends are also entitled to a free stamp set or product from our Sale-A-Bration catalog too, for every $50 you spend!

If you are unsure how to use a product, how our hostess plan works, or how to qualify for FREE Sale-A-Bration products please feel free to contact me! I will be happy to go over the different types of in-home parties I offer-which I can also do from my home stamp studio.

You can view our Decor Elements Brochure and our NEW additional insert on the right sidebar of this blog, or contact me if you would like to see one in person.

I love decorating with all these latest options! I know you will just love all the designs and colors available in our newest additions to our Decor elements brochure. Ask me about it!

Stampingly yours,

Our First Real Major Snowstorm is over!

Well, here in the Northeast in Sussex County NJ, we were lucky that huge storm from the weekend missed us, but Tuesday into Wednesday, we got the next one! Here are a few photos:

 

These were taken from the Stamp Studio overlooking our tranquil mountain road...great pictures to Scrapbook, right? I think I will do that! I just have to figure out how to get the photos off my camera,so I can save them to my picture file and print them out! (technically challenged with that sort of stuff!)

It took awhile to dig out from a foot of snow, but at least we were spared the 2-3 feet some parts of the Mid-Atlantic experienced!

All the schools around here were closed for two days! That doesn't usually happen, so my seventeen year old daughter Kelley and I shoveled out, then went out for breakfast!

While she chilled in front of the TV this afternoon, I was able to spend some time in the Stamp Studio-doing some cleaning up and organizing....and work on the computer. Tomorrow I'll be catching up on some stamping and I'll be able to post some more creative ideas!

Till then, stay warm!

SNOWY DAY SPECIALS FROM DEBBIE!

Hi! Are you enjoying the snowstorm today? It's a great day to stamp or scrap some pages...

    * When was the last time you used your stamps?
    * Or scrapped a page or two?
    * When was the last time you got together with some friends and hosted a Stampin' Up!  party, or attended a class? 
    * I'm taking dates to doing workshops, and am starting up more class offerings, so please come and join us at a class or event OR host your own class or party! Now is the BEST time to do this-during Sale-A-Bration, when everyone gets something for FREE with each $50 order! If you're interested, I'm booking for late February/March right now. Just contact me to so we can set up a date for you, before my dates are all booked!
    * Maybe my Snowy Day Special will give you some incentive for doing this...read on!


I have a SNOWY DAY SPECIAL just for you-good for TODAY ONLY until midnight EST and here it is:

1) if you email me and book a February/March workshop with me TODAY, OR
2) if you sign up and prepay for any of my upcoming classes (excludes FREE events) in February or March..

...you will receive a coupon from me good for FREE SHIPPING on your order AT THAT class, or workshop! That's a savings of 10%! We all LOVE free shipping...This deal is good only if you sign up TODAY!

Here's another deal for you:

If you get a group of six friends together (including you) in the month of February for a six month ($30 monthly Hostess club) you will receive a $10 coupon for product that will be added to your first club order! (in addition to the Idea Book & Catalog, the mini catalogs and one month you will earn a hostess set and at least $15 in product-AND a Sale-A-Bration product if your order is $50 or more)!

One LAST REMINDER: Don't forget to sign up to attend Winter Interlude Workshop this Saturday (offered in a.m. or p.m. session) RSVP by 2/11! This is FREE-and a great way to see new products, try them, make two projects, win some prizes and partake in a FUN Stampin' Tricky Tray for my demo samples! Click HERE for the flyer and more details! This is the last time this will be offered this season.

Email me with any questions...or to take advantage of these SNOWY DAY SPECIALS!

HAPPY SNOW DAY!

What we stamped at January Jamboree!

I just LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the new products in the Stampin' Up! Occasions Mini Catalog and the Sale-A-Bration brochure, don't you?

The Last weekend of January I held my first annual January Jamboree class....didn't come? Here's what we made:

  ...a Love You card, sympathy card, Friend Mini Milk Carton

and a Birthday all-in-one treat box!

I created this floral sympathy card using the Faux Silk Technique(the bumpy white textured cardstock) -one of my favorite techniques:

Notice the new Scallop Trim Border Punch (118402)? This is one of the FREE products you can get right now during our Sale-A-Bration event with an order of at least $50! There is also a matching corner punch too! (available for purchase in Occasion Mini Catalog) Don't you just love the silk ribbons? and now they come in different colors!

Here is the same card showing the scallop punch used on the top and on the side. Which do you prefer?

This card also utilized the Big Shot die cut machine, and Polka Dot background (hard to see), the new Extra Large Fancy Flower punch, Sending Love Specialty Designer Series Papers! Isn't this so bright and cheerful? I could have used hearts, but just had to try the new floral punch!

 

The new Mini Milk Carton Die used with the Big Shot Machine is SO adorable! Here it is featured with the NEW Vintage Vogue stamp set, Sending Love Specialty DS papers and a rhinestone brad and grosgrain ribbon to finish it off! So many great NEW products!

The last project was this pretty Birthday box showing both sides of the designer papers, and using different bow designs and button colors. Can't really tell from the photo, but the Specialty paper is glittered! Oh, so chic!

 

Here the box is opened-the lid is attached-VERY cool! Fill it with Hersey's kisses or whatever you like, and it's the perfect gift for a Birthday--or Valentine's Day!

So--don't you wish you came to January Jamboree?

I'd love to hear what you think of these projects...and all the wonderful new products Stampin' Up! came out with!

Be sure to check out my future classes and events on the Calendar to the right....

or, visit my website to view events and to shop for any of these products 24-7!

Come back and see me tomorrow,

Two more months to Sale-A-Brate with FREE Stampin' Up! products!

What is SALE-A-BRATION?

Here in the Northeast, this is a dreary, cold time of year which lends itself VERY well to the timing of Sale-A-Bration! Everyone loves this promotion because it's the best promotion of the year! It's a time to see and try new products, and get some for FREE! It's also a great way to start the New Year as a Stampin' Up! business owner!  Sale-A-Bration takes place from January thru March1st!

Here are 3 ways to take advantage of Sale-A-Bration and save:

1. For every $50 you spend with me at a workshop, a class or in my online Stampin' Up! store, you can select one FREE product from the Sale-A-Bration catalog!  Stampin' Up! is offering some adorable stamp sets, paper packages, and even the Scallop Trim Border punch-one of our newly designed punches!  Many of the new border punches also have a matching corner punch (available in the Occasions Mini Catalog). Buy this one and get the punch in the Sale-A-Bration brochure absolutely free (with a $50 order!). 
2. Host a workshop and earn even more! When your guests orders total     $300, YOU earn another SAB product! If you haven't hosted a Stampin' Up! party within the past six months, (maybe you think your friends have "seen it all"?) you will be amazed at how much has changed! So much is new! I'll be happy to enlighten you-it's not just about "stamping" anymore! You owe it to yourself and your friends to "Host a Party" during Sale-A-Bration-for a WHOLE NEW EXPERIENCE in entertaining! Do you know Stampin' Up! has partnered with Build-A-Bear and we have a line of stamps, and die cuts kids just love? Our Big Shot line has expanded and now offers many BigZ dies, embossing folders, Texturez Plates, etc! We also expanded the Decor Elements Definitely Decorative line-there are countless ways to decorate your home, and any hard surface you can imagine! And we've even added our newest Simply Adored Jewelry line that provides a way to insert custom artwork or photos-- and much more! So what are you waiting for? If time or space in your home is an issue, collect orders and host a catalog party-or book a private class for your friends with me at my Stamp Studio! I'll help you and your friends receive products for free!!
3. Here's another great benefit only offered during Sale-A-Bration..we can all use a few extra $$ in our pockets for bills, college tuitions, vacations or whatever! Why not look into becoming a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator and own your own home business? During Sale-A-Bration, you can receive a 15% discount (regular Starter Kit is $169 instead of $199), AND add any stamp set from the current catalogs up to a $47.95 value for FREE! It doesn't get better than that-you can do something you enjoy while adding to your income too....you choose how you want to run this business-part time, or even as a career! 

Passion for Stamps Business Opportunity Meeting

I LOVE my job, because it always changes-it is never dull and boring! There is always something fresh, new and exciting coming out and going on! Stampin' Up! is a solid company that has been around since 1988, and it's getting stronger each year! In February, I will be celebrating my 14th year as a Stampin' Up! demonstrator! If you or someone you know could benefit from receiving an additional income doing this part time or or even as a full time job, I am hosting a short Passion for Stamps Business Opportunity Meeting at my Home Stamp Studio in Hardyston, NJ on February 3 from 7-8:30 p.m. where I'll provide the details about being a Stampin' Up! demonstrator and starting your own business. There will be light refreshments and I'll be happy to answer any questions you may have. It's free, so please join me! But hurry...LAST DAY TO RSVP is February 1st!

If you are interested in pursuing any of the above Sale-A-Bration opportunities, please Email Me!

Stampin' Up! Stamp and Scrapbook Enthusiasts-sign up for informative Monthly Newsletter!

Do you have a passion for rubber stamping or scrapbooking? Papercrafts? Home decor? Well, you came to the right place! My name is Debbie Van Gieson; I've been a Stampin' Up! demonstrator for almost 14 years (my anniversary is in February!).  I have a 'Passion for stamps' too--which started 20 years ago!

Did you happen upon my blog by accident? or via a search engine? maybe a tip from a friend? From Facebook? or Twitter?

If you like what you see here, you may be interested in signing up for my monthly CUSTOMER NEWSLETTER!

Each month I send out a newsletter packed with great information. You'll receive receive these features in every issue:

    * a great card project
    * a lovely non-paper/Gift project
    * a snazzy scrapbook page
    * an eye-opening Tool/Tip project
    * a terrific Technique
    * a Product of the Month article & class discount offer!
    * a "Customers Want to Know" Q&A section!
    * side-bar links to all current Stampin' Up! catalogs and promotions
    * informative Classes & Events Schedule with sign-up & payment links-to save you time!

These features will provide a wealth of information about products in our Stampin' Up! catalogs and will also spark your creativity with inspiration!

My February newsletter will be going out some time this week, so make sure you go to the upper left side bar and sign up to be on my customer mailing list, so you don't miss out on some great stuff!!

You can also check the right sidebar of this PASSION FOR STAMPS blog or my Events Calendar on my Stampin' Up! website for updated information about classes & upcoming events. I'd love to hear from you so when you sign up, feel free to shoot me an email so I can welcome you!

NOTE To Stampin' Up! Demonstrators: This is a benefit I offer my current or prospective Stampin' Up! customers as a way to build my business. if you are a Stampin' Up! demonstrator please respect this, and do not sign up for my customer mailing list-thank you!  However I have a great offer just for demonstrators and other Stamping Business owners! I invite you to join the Business Stampers Coaching Group! It's an awesome group to belong to and right now you can sign up for a FREE TRIAL FOR A WEEK so check it out! ! You have nothing to lose and everything to gain, so give it a try! You may just find it is a resource that is invaluable to you as a Stampin' Up demonstrator or a Stamping Business owner with another company! For more information, look for the BIG ad in the upper right side bar! 

Last Day to Sign Up for January Jubilee Classes!

 ***NEW Mini Milk Carton Bigz Die for the Big Shot! This project also uses new set: Vintage Vogue from the Occasions Mini Catalog! Come to Jubilee and make one!

At January Jubilee, we'll be making 5 projects using products from the latest Occasion Mini catalog and the Sale-A-Bration Brochure! Pictured above is one of the projects we're making using the Big Shot and our new Mini Milk Carton die! (Candy is included!). This is such a sweet treat box and would make a wonderful favor for showers, weddings, or many other uses! It's fun to decorate, and so easy to put together, too! Fill it with your favorite treat for Valentine's Day as a "sweet" treat from you for your friends...

During Sale-A-Bration, for every $50 you spend on Stampin' Up! purchases right now through March 31, you will also be able to select a FREE stamp set or product from the Sale-A-Bration Brochure!New this year, are accessories, as well as a list of stamp sets from Stampin' Up!'s main Idea Book & Catalog to choose from-WOW! 

TODAY is the LAST day to sign up for JANUARY JUBILEE, offered on Friday or Saturday. For all the details, and to register and prepay (required) via PayPal online, click on the Calendar on the right sidebar of this blog under My Upcoming Events or click here.  For other payment arrangements contact me.

OTHER LINKS:

OCCASIONS MINI CATALOG

SALE-A-BRATION BROCHURE

If you would like to purchase the NEW Stampin' Up! Milk Carton Bigz L Die, go to my Stampin' Up! website HERE and click on SHOP NOW!

See you at January Jublilee! 

Stampingly yours,

Stampin' Up! to the Rescue-Haitian Disaster Relief!

CLICK ON THE ABOVE IMAGE TO VIEW THE FLYER

Hi Stampin' Up! Enthusiasts,

As you know, on January 12, 2010 a magnitude 7.0 earthquake struck Haiti,

leaving in its wake devastation so overwhelming that the Haitian people and their leaders can only look for help from the outside to cope.
In the past, when terrorists attacked the Twin Towers, when a tsunami struck Indonesia, when a hurricane destroyed New Orleans, and when wildfires ravaged Australia, Stampin Up! demonstrators have stepped forward and showed their commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. This time is no different.

To help make a difference in the lives of those who continue to suffer in the wake of this devastating earthquake, Stampin' Up! will set aside $2 from the sales of every                   I {Heart} Hearts stamp set and donate it to the American Red Cross. The Red Cross is well-established in Haiti, and this money will be used to provide immediate relief and long-term support through supplies, technical assistance and other support to help those in need.

Stampin' Up! demonstrators are helping by purchasing this stamp set-You can help make a difference too, by ordering this stamp set today! Click on the photo of the stamp set above to view the flyer (set is from the newly released Occasion Mini  (page 14).

I {Heart} Hearts (Clear Mount)  118571 $18.95

I {Heart} Hearts (Wood Mount)  117010 $26.95


Please note: If you purchase the Clear-mount set, you will also need Acrylic Block D.

To order online, click HERE then click on Shop Now in the upper right corner. You can also contact me  if you would like me to order it for you, and I will have it shipped directly to you (Shipping, Tax & Handling will be added). If you are local (Northwest New Jersey area) I'll add it to an order and you can either pick it up at a class or we can make arrangements for a date convenient to us both.

Thanks so much for your support in this international effort! God bless you and have a great day!

To love what we do, and share what we love as we help others enjoy creativity and worthwhile accomplishments-in this we make a difference!
-Stampin' Up!'s Statement of the Heart

Stampingly yours,

 

Calendar of Events

All classes/camps are limited to 12 participants unless otherwise noted. Contact me for alternate dates if you cannot attend classes/camps on dates they are offered, for consideration of another date if demonstrator's schedule allows. I can bring any camp/class I currently offer, to you or hold a private class/camp at the Stamp Studio (prepayment by a minimum of at least 6 participants is required and an additional $2 per person over the class/camp fee will be charged) if a date can be agreed upon. (Dates will be rescheduled according to Demonstrator's availability)

Friday, January 29, 2010 7-9 PM January Jamboree Camp! $25 At this camp we will make an assortment of at least four cards & projects using cool products from our latest SAB & Occasion Mini catalogs!  1/29 7-9 pm & 1/30 10-12 am. Prepayment and registration required by 1/26.  To register use button below:	Saturday, January 30, 2010 10-12 AM January Jamboree Camp! $25 At this camp we will make an assortment of at least four cards & projects using cool products from our latest SAB & Occasion Mini catalogs!  1/29 7-9 pm & 1/30 10-12 am. Prepayment and registration required by 1/26.  To register use button below:
OPPORTUNITY NIGHT! Have you ever wondered if becoming a Stampin' Up! demonstrator is something that you would enjoy? Would you like to find out if it's a right fit for you? There are many reasons to join and I'll be sharing C-H-O-C-O-L-A-T-E with you! Join me at A Passion For Stamps Business Opportunity Meeting I will give a brief presentation of the benefits and other details to help you determine if joining us is what you want to do. There are special incentives to join right now during our Sale-A-Bration event! Wednesday, February 3 7-8:30 p.m. RSVP is required to attend. This is a free event. Please contact me by January 31 if you would like to attend	Saturday February 13 (Two Sessions) WINTER INTERLUDE WORKSHOP! 10-12.00 p.m. and 2-4:00 p.m. This is a free Open House event to showcase products from the Sale-A-Bration and Occasion Mini Catalogs! It's free, but RSVP is required to attend (so I can prepare supplies for two projects you will make).  There will be samples on display, tickets for prizes, incentives, a Stampin' Tricky Tray, refreshments and more! Click HERE for detailed information!

My new venture-Handpainted & Personalized Snowbaby Ornaments!

I'm sorry I've been away from my blog for so long...lot's has been happening! I had several fall/Christmas craft shows, holiday stamp classes, meetings for various things, church duties, and my dad also had a stroke right before Thanksgiving...he is doing much better now, in a facility where he is receiving Physical Therapy for his right side, where the majority of the damage occurred.

I've been making and selling personalized Glass Ornaments for the holidays! I sold some of these last year at Craft Fairs, and received orders for more this year. If you follow me on Facebook, you know I posted yesterday that I'd share some photos of the SnowBaby Christmas Ornaments I've been making and fulfilling orders for this holiday season. I hand paint the faces, and personalize the ribbon on the hat with the name of the child, year and/or First Christmas, etc.  I also offer a beautiful coordinating holiday keepsake box with the child's name and year, to help identify and organize this ornament, and facilitate safe storage for years to come!

Here are some photos of recent ones I've made:

 
 

 Baby Boy & Baby Girl Glass Ball Ornaments;

Faces are hand-painted; tags for the year are provided, and can also be added to the ribbon if requested. The cheeks have a hint of color and will sparkle from the iridescent ice glitter when touched by the lights from your tree.

These are the coordinating keepsake boxes to store your treasured ornaments for years to come!  The interlocking closure is made with Designer Series Papers.  Each box has the name of the child on the front,  as it appears on the ribbon on the ornament. A gorgeous white silk ribbon and tag saying a "A Gift for you-Merry Christmas"finishes off the packaging!

The box is filled with a festive paper filling to protect the ornament during storage.

 

 Close-up view of the top of the box featuring the lovely white silk ribbon and bow, and the tag-to give it a finished look!

This close-up view shows how beautifully it is packaged and ready for gift-giving!

Here is a close-up of the ornament:

I will be taking orders for this product, as well as At Home Class Kits, Finished Product, and Retired Stamps which will all be available for purchase fom my new online store, Passionstamper's Boutique- which will open in early January 2010! 

Please email me if you are interested in more information about this product. If you would like to place an order for these lovely ornaments for Christmas 2010, please place your order(s) early in the year, as these are now in high demand!

Details such as ordering, personalization, price, shipping etc. will be will be available online on my new blog Passionstamper's Boutique and orders can be placed starting on January 3, 2010, when a link to the new site will be provided.

Be on the lookout for a Winter Storm Online Holiday Sale tomorrow afternoon in lieu of a Holiday Open House, should we receive the storm now being predicted!

Classes for 2009 have now ended. I will be resuming them in January 2010. Please visit this site again soon for updates to my class schedule.

You can also shop the Stampin' Up! ONLINE store 24/7! Now thru 12/22 you can get some deals on Sizzix Dies! I hope you are enjoying these last days before Christmas arrives! Please contact me should you have any questions and I'll be happy to assist you!

HUGE HOLIDAY SAVINGS... now through BLACK FRIDAY and beyond!

You are gonna LOVE this HOLIDAY SALE! You can SHOP FROM HOME...24/7 in your pj's too through Black Friday, the weekend and through Monday, November 30th!

Check out the great deals being offered by Stampin' Up below for items up to 50% off-for only a LIMITED TIME THROUGH NOVEMBER 30! Some items only available while supplies last, so hurry-you don't want to miss out on these deals! Order ONLINE (just click on SHOP NOW) or EMAIL ME your order ! The order numbers stated below are special so you get the discounted price, so be sure you use these numbers, not the ones in the catalogs. HAPPY SHOPPING!

Item	Description	Regular Price	Discounted Price
120280	Framed with Love Bundle Framed with Love stamp set Full Heart punch	$43.90	$21.95
120281	Thank You Kindly Bundle Thank You Kindly stamp set Scallop Edge punch	$29.90	$14.95
120976	Thank You Kindly Bundle (French) Tous mes remerciements stamp set Scallop Edge punch	$29.90	$14.95
120282	Animal Crackers Bundle Animal Crackers stamp set Star Designer brads	$25.90	$12.95
120283	Corduroy Button Bundle Kraft Corduroy buttons Pumpkin Pie Corduroy buttons Summer Sun Corduroy buttons Basic Gray Corduroy buttons Chocolate Chip Corduroy buttons	$49.75	$24.88
120284	Game Night Bundle Card Games stamp set Game Night stamp set	$40.90	$20.45
120285	Four Square Bundle Four Square stamp set Scallop Square punch	$30.90	$15.45
120286	Heart to Heart Bundle Love You Much stamp set Heart to Heart punch Pretty in Pink 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon	$49.85	$24.93
120310	Heart to Heart Bundle (Spanish) Te Quiero Mucho stamp set Heart to Heart punch Pretty in Pink 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon	$49.85	$24.93
120311	Heart to Heart Bundle (French) J't'aime beaucoup stamp set Heart to Heart punch Pretty in Pink 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon	$49.85	$24.93
120287	Chipboard Letter Bundle On Board Timeless Type On Board Loads of Letters	$25.90	$12.95
120288	Double-Stitched Ribbon Bundle Bashful Blue 1" double-stitched grosgrain ribbon Rose Red 1" double-stitched grosgrain ribbon	$17.90	$10.74
120289	Ultimate Stampers' Starter Bundle* Best Wishes & More stamp set Eight Great Greetings stamp set On a Pedestal stamp set Earth Elements Stampin' Spots Earth Elements assorted card stock (8-1/2" x 11") Whisper White card stock (8-1/2" x 11") Old Olive 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon Flower Designer brads	$127.70	$76.62
120290	Build-A-Brad Bundle Calendar Alphabet stamp set Pewter Build-A-Brad Antique Brass Build-A-Brad	$40.85	$24.51
120291	Enjoy Every Moment Bundle Enjoy Every Moment stamp set Circle Designer brads Flower Designer brads	$43.85	$26.31
120312	Enjoy Every Moment Bundle (French) Profiter de chaque instant stamp set Circle Designer brads Flower Designer brads	$43.85	$26.31
120292	Cheep Talk Bundle Cheep Talk stamp set Note cards Pumpkin Pie Corduroy buttons	$42.85	$25.71
120293	Sock Monkey Bundle Sock Monkey stamp set Sock Monkey Accessories stamp set Chocolate Chip Corduroy buttons	$58.85	$35.31
120313	Sock Monkey Bundle (French) Sing-chaussette stamp set Sock Monkey Accessories stamp set Chocolate Chip Corduroy buttons	$58.85	$35.31
120294	Alphabet Bundle Jayne's Type Alphabet stamp set Lovely Letters stamp set	$87.90	$52.74
120295	Simply Said Bundle Simply Said stamp set Old Olive 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon Full Heart punch	$52.85	$31.71
120314	Simply Said Bundle (French) Amitié stamp set Old Olive 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon Full Heart punch	$52.85	$31.71
120296	On Board Bundle On Board So Tweet On Board Batch of Blooms On Board Essentials	$42.85	$25.71
120927	Christmas Décor Bundle #1 Holly Berry Wreath Décor Elements (Kraft, Real Red) Real Red Vintage Ornaments Décor Elements Chocolate Vintage Ornaments Décor Elements	$74.85	$44.91
120298	Christmas Décor Bundle #2 Holly Beary Wreath Décor Elements (Chocolate, Real Red) Real Red Vintage Ornaments Décor Elements Chocolate Vintage Ornaments Décor Elements	$74.85	$44.91
120299	Christmas Décor Bundle #3 Holly Berry Wreath Décor Elements (Old Olive, Real Red) Real Red Vintage Ornaments Décor Elements Chocolate Vintage Ornaments Décor Elements	$74.85	$44.91
120300	For All You Do Bundle For All You Do stamp set 5/16" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$36.90	$25.83
120315	For All You Do Bundle (French) Merci pour tout stamp set 5/16" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$36.90	$25.83
120316	For All You Do Bundle (Spanish) Por todo lo que haces stamp set 5/16" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$36.90	$25.83
120301	Striped Ribbon Bundle Bashful Blue 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon Pumpkin Pie 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon Old Olive 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon Pretty in Pink 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon So Saffron 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon Real Red 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon	$47.73	$33.41
120302	Bling Bundle Sticky Pages Sticky Cuts Sweet Fine Supernova Stampin' Glitter Fine Galaxy Stampin' Glitter	$43.80	$30.66
120303	Fresh-Cut Bundle Fresh Cuts stamp set Fresh-Cut Notes 5/8" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$37.85	$26.50
120317	Fresh-Cut Bundle (French) Fraicheur exuise stamp set Fresh-Cut Notes 5/8" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$37.85	$26.50
120304	Pendant Note Bundle Pendant Park stamp set Pendant notes 5/8" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$39.85	$27.90
120318	Pendant Note Bundle (French) Adorable parc stamp set Pendant notes 5/8" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$39.85	$27.90
120319	Pendant Note Bundle (Spanish) Un dia en el parque stamp set Pendant notes 5/8" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$39.85	$27.90
120305	Sporting Bundle #1 Large Night of Navy Sporting Décor Elements Night of Navy Just Sports Décor Elements	$67.90	$47.54
120306	Sporting Bundle #2 Large Chocolate Sporting Décor Elements Chocolate Just Sports Décor Elements	$67.90	$47.54
120307	Sporting Bundle #3 Large Black Sporting Décor Elements Black Just Sports Décor Elements	$67.90	$47.54
114864	Ginormous Flowers I Décor Elements	$39.95	$27.97
114863	Ginormous Flowers II Décor Elements	$39.95	$27.97
112534	5/16" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$7.95	$5.57
112533	5/8" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$6.95	$4.87
112081	Scallop Square punch	$15.95	$11.17
113693	Full Heart punch	$15.95	$11.17
113694	Heart to Heart punch	$15.95	$11.17
112091	Scallop Edge punch	$15.95	$11.17
112571	Circle Designer brads	$5.95	$4.17
112579	Flower Designer brads	$5.95	$4.17
112572	Star Designer brads	$5.95	$4.17
114785	Small Wonderful Flowers Décor Elements	$39.95	$27.97
114786	Medium Wonderful Flowers Décor Elements	$69.95	$48.97
114791	Small Wonderful Leaves Décor Elements	$39.95	$27.97
114792	Medium Wonderful Leaves Décor Elements	$64.95	$45.47

  *This bundle is only available while supplies last.

Check out the great deals being offered by Stampin' Up below for items up to 50% off-for only a LIMITED TIME THROUGH NOVEMBER 30! Some items only available while supplies last, so hurry-you don't want to miss out on these deals! Order ONLINE (just click on SHOP NOW) or EMAIL ME your order ! The order numbers stated below are special so you get the discounted price, so be sure you use these numbers, not the ones in the catalogs. HAPPY SHOPPING!

Item	Description	Regular Price	Discounted Price
120280	Framed with Love Bundle Framed with Love stamp set Full Heart punch	$43.90	$21.95
120281	Thank You Kindly Bundle Thank You Kindly stamp set Scallop Edge punch	$29.90	$14.95
120976	Thank You Kindly Bundle (French) Tous mes remerciements stamp set Scallop Edge punch	$29.90	$14.95
120282	Animal Crackers Bundle Animal Crackers stamp set Star Designer brads	$25.90	$12.95
120283	Corduroy Button Bundle Kraft Corduroy buttons Pumpkin Pie Corduroy buttons Summer Sun Corduroy buttons Basic Gray Corduroy buttons Chocolate Chip Corduroy buttons	$49.75	$24.88
120284	Game Night Bundle Card Games stamp set Game Night stamp set	$40.90	$20.45
120285	Four Square Bundle Four Square stamp set Scallop Square punch	$30.90	$15.45
120286	Heart to Heart Bundle Love You Much stamp set Heart to Heart punch Pretty in Pink 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon	$49.85	$24.93
120310	Heart to Heart Bundle (Spanish) Te Quiero Mucho stamp set Heart to Heart punch Pretty in Pink 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon	$49.85	$24.93
120311	Heart to Heart Bundle (French) J't'aime beaucoup stamp set Heart to Heart punch Pretty in Pink 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon	$49.85	$24.93
120287	Chipboard Letter Bundle On Board Timeless Type On Board Loads of Letters	$25.90	$12.95
120288	Double-Stitched Ribbon Bundle Bashful Blue 1" double-stitched grosgrain ribbon Rose Red 1" double-stitched grosgrain ribbon	$17.90	$10.74
120289	Ultimate Stampers' Starter Bundle* Best Wishes & More stamp set Eight Great Greetings stamp set On a Pedestal stamp set Earth Elements Stampin' Spots Earth Elements assorted card stock (8-1/2" x 11") Whisper White card stock (8-1/2" x 11") Old Olive 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon Flower Designer brads	$127.70	$76.62
120290	Build-A-Brad Bundle Calendar Alphabet stamp set Pewter Build-A-Brad Antique Brass Build-A-Brad	$40.85	$24.51
120291	Enjoy Every Moment Bundle Enjoy Every Moment stamp set Circle Designer brads Flower Designer brads	$43.85	$26.31
120312	Enjoy Every Moment Bundle (French) Profiter de chaque instant stamp set Circle Designer brads Flower Designer brads	$43.85	$26.31
120292	Cheep Talk Bundle Cheep Talk stamp set Note cards Pumpkin Pie Corduroy buttons	$42.85	$25.71
120293	Sock Monkey Bundle Sock Monkey stamp set Sock Monkey Accessories stamp set Chocolate Chip Corduroy buttons	$58.85	$35.31
120313	Sock Monkey Bundle (French) Sing-chaussette stamp set Sock Monkey Accessories stamp set Chocolate Chip Corduroy buttons	$58.85	$35.31
120294	Alphabet Bundle Jayne's Type Alphabet stamp set Lovely Letters stamp set	$87.90	$52.74
120295	Simply Said Bundle Simply Said stamp set Old Olive 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon Full Heart punch	$52.85	$31.71
120314	Simply Said Bundle (French) Amitié stamp set Old Olive 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon Full Heart punch	$52.85	$31.71
120296	On Board Bundle On Board So Tweet On Board Batch of Blooms On Board Essentials	$42.85	$25.71
120927	Christmas Décor Bundle #1 Holly Berry Wreath Décor Elements (Kraft, Real Red) Real Red Vintage Ornaments Décor Elements Chocolate Vintage Ornaments Décor Elements	$74.85	$44.91
120298	Christmas Décor Bundle #2 Holly Beary Wreath Décor Elements (Chocolate, Real Red) Real Red Vintage Ornaments Décor Elements Chocolate Vintage Ornaments Décor Elements	$74.85	$44.91
120299	Christmas Décor Bundle #3 Holly Berry Wreath Décor Elements (Old Olive, Real Red) Real Red Vintage Ornaments Décor Elements Chocolate Vintage Ornaments Décor Elements	$74.85	$44.91
120300	For All You Do Bundle For All You Do stamp set 5/16" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$36.90	$25.83
120315	For All You Do Bundle (French) Merci pour tout stamp set 5/16" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$36.90	$25.83
120316	For All You Do Bundle (Spanish) Por todo lo que haces stamp set 5/16" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$36.90	$25.83
120301	Striped Ribbon Bundle Bashful Blue 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon Pumpkin Pie 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon Old Olive 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon Pretty in Pink 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon So Saffron 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon Real Red 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon	$47.73	$33.41
120302	Bling Bundle Sticky Pages Sticky Cuts Sweet Fine Supernova Stampin' Glitter Fine Galaxy Stampin' Glitter	$43.80	$30.66
120303	Fresh-Cut Bundle Fresh Cuts stamp set Fresh-Cut Notes 5/8" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$37.85	$26.50
120317	Fresh-Cut Bundle (French) Fraicheur exuise stamp set Fresh-Cut Notes 5/8" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$37.85	$26.50
120304	Pendant Note Bundle Pendant Park stamp set Pendant notes 5/8" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$39.85	$27.90
120318	Pendant Note Bundle (French) Adorable parc stamp set Pendant notes 5/8" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$39.85	$27.90
120319	Pendant Note Bundle (Spanish) Un dia en el parque stamp set Pendant notes 5/8" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$39.85	$27.90
120305	Sporting Bundle #1 Large Night of Navy Sporting Décor Elements Night of Navy Just Sports Décor Elements	$67.90	$47.54
120306	Sporting Bundle #2 Large Chocolate Sporting Décor Elements Chocolate Just Sports Décor Elements	$67.90	$47.54
120307	Sporting Bundle #3 Large Black Sporting Décor Elements Black Just Sports Décor Elements	$67.90	$47.54
114864	Ginormous Flowers I Décor Elements	$39.95	$27.97
114863	Ginormous Flowers II Décor Elements	$39.95	$27.97
112534	5/16" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$7.95	$5.57
112533	5/8" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$6.95	$4.87
112081	Scallop Square punch	$15.95	$11.17
113693	Full Heart punch	$15.95	$11.17
113694	Heart to Heart punch	$15.95	$11.17
112091	Scallop Edge punch	$15.95	$11.17
112571	Circle Designer brads	$5.95	$4.17
112579	Flower Designer brads	$5.95	$4.17
112572	Star Designer brads	$5.95	$4.17
114785	Small Wonderful Flowers Décor Elements	$39.95	$27.97
114786	Medium Wonderful Flowers Décor Elements	$69.95	$48.97
114791	Small Wonderful Leaves Décor Elements	$39.95	$27.97
114792	Medium Wonderful Leaves Décor Elements	$64.95	$45.47

  *This bundle is only available while supplies last.

You are gonna LOVE this HOLIDAY SALE! You can SHOP FROM HOME...24/7 in your pj's too through Black Friday, the weekend and through Monday, November 30th!

Check out the great deals being offered by Stampin' Up below for items up to 50% off-for only a LIMITED TIME THROUGH NOVEMBER 30! Some items only available while supplies last, so hurry-you don't want to miss out on these deals! Order ONLINE (just click on SHOP NOW) or EMAIL ME your order ! The order numbers stated below are special so you get the discounted price, so be sure you use these numbers, not the ones in the catalogs. HAPPY SHOPPING!

Item	Description	Regular Price	Discounted Price
120280	Framed with Love Bundle Framed with Love stamp set Full Heart punch	$43.90	$21.95
120281	Thank You Kindly Bundle Thank You Kindly stamp set Scallop Edge punch	$29.90	$14.95
120976	Thank You Kindly Bundle (French) Tous mes remerciements stamp set Scallop Edge punch	$29.90	$14.95
120282	Animal Crackers Bundle Animal Crackers stamp set Star Designer brads	$25.90	$12.95
120283	Corduroy Button Bundle Kraft Corduroy buttons Pumpkin Pie Corduroy buttons Summer Sun Corduroy buttons Basic Gray Corduroy buttons Chocolate Chip Corduroy buttons	$49.75	$24.88
120284	Game Night Bundle Card Games stamp set Game Night stamp set	$40.90	$20.45
120285	Four Square Bundle Four Square stamp set Scallop Square punch	$30.90	$15.45
120286	Heart to Heart Bundle Love You Much stamp set Heart to Heart punch Pretty in Pink 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon	$49.85	$24.93
120310	Heart to Heart Bundle (Spanish) Te Quiero Mucho stamp set Heart to Heart punch Pretty in Pink 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon	$49.85	$24.93
120311	Heart to Heart Bundle (French) J't'aime beaucoup stamp set Heart to Heart punch Pretty in Pink 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon	$49.85	$24.93
120287	Chipboard Letter Bundle On Board Timeless Type On Board Loads of Letters	$25.90	$12.95
120288	Double-Stitched Ribbon Bundle Bashful Blue 1" double-stitched grosgrain ribbon Rose Red 1" double-stitched grosgrain ribbon	$17.90	$10.74
120289	Ultimate Stampers' Starter Bundle* Best Wishes & More stamp set Eight Great Greetings stamp set On a Pedestal stamp set Earth Elements Stampin' Spots Earth Elements assorted card stock (8-1/2" x 11") Whisper White card stock (8-1/2" x 11") Old Olive 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon Flower Designer brads	$127.70	$76.62
120290	Build-A-Brad Bundle Calendar Alphabet stamp set Pewter Build-A-Brad Antique Brass Build-A-Brad	$40.85	$24.51
120291	Enjoy Every Moment Bundle Enjoy Every Moment stamp set Circle Designer brads Flower Designer brads	$43.85	$26.31
120312	Enjoy Every Moment Bundle (French) Profiter de chaque instant stamp set Circle Designer brads Flower Designer brads	$43.85	$26.31
120292	Cheep Talk Bundle Cheep Talk stamp set Note cards Pumpkin Pie Corduroy buttons	$42.85	$25.71
120293	Sock Monkey Bundle Sock Monkey stamp set Sock Monkey Accessories stamp set Chocolate Chip Corduroy buttons	$58.85	$35.31
120313	Sock Monkey Bundle (French) Sing-chaussette stamp set Sock Monkey Accessories stamp set Chocolate Chip Corduroy buttons	$58.85	$35.31
120294	Alphabet Bundle Jayne's Type Alphabet stamp set Lovely Letters stamp set	$87.90	$52.74
120295	Simply Said Bundle Simply Said stamp set Old Olive 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon Full Heart punch	$52.85	$31.71
120314	Simply Said Bundle (French) Amitié stamp set Old Olive 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon Full Heart punch	$52.85	$31.71
120296	On Board Bundle On Board So Tweet On Board Batch of Blooms On Board Essentials	$42.85	$25.71
120927	Christmas Décor Bundle #1 Holly Berry Wreath Décor Elements (Kraft, Real Red) Real Red Vintage Ornaments Décor Elements Chocolate Vintage Ornaments Décor Elements	$74.85	$44.91
120298	Christmas Décor Bundle #2 Holly Beary Wreath Décor Elements (Chocolate, Real Red) Real Red Vintage Ornaments Décor Elements Chocolate Vintage Ornaments Décor Elements	$74.85	$44.91
120299	Christmas Décor Bundle #3 Holly Berry Wreath Décor Elements (Old Olive, Real Red) Real Red Vintage Ornaments Décor Elements Chocolate Vintage Ornaments Décor Elements	$74.85	$44.91
120300	For All You Do Bundle For All You Do stamp set 5/16" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$36.90	$25.83
120315	For All You Do Bundle (French) Merci pour tout stamp set 5/16" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$36.90	$25.83
120316	For All You Do Bundle (Spanish) Por todo lo que haces stamp set 5/16" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$36.90	$25.83
120301	Striped Ribbon Bundle Bashful Blue 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon Pumpkin Pie 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon Old Olive 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon Pretty in Pink 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon So Saffron 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon Real Red 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon	$47.73	$33.41
120302	Bling Bundle Sticky Pages Sticky Cuts Sweet Fine Supernova Stampin' Glitter Fine Galaxy Stampin' Glitter	$43.80	$30.66
120303	Fresh-Cut Bundle Fresh Cuts stamp set Fresh-Cut Notes 5/8" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$37.85	$26.50
120317	Fresh-Cut Bundle (French) Fraicheur exuise stamp set Fresh-Cut Notes 5/8" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$37.85	$26.50
120304	Pendant Note Bundle Pendant Park stamp set Pendant notes 5/8" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$39.85	$27.90
120318	Pendant Note Bundle (French) Adorable parc stamp set Pendant notes 5/8" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$39.85	$27.90
120319	Pendant Note Bundle (Spanish) Un dia en el parque stamp set Pendant notes 5/8" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$39.85	$27.90
120305	Sporting Bundle #1 Large Night of Navy Sporting Décor Elements Night of Navy Just Sports Décor Elements	$67.90	$47.54
120306	Sporting Bundle #2 Large Chocolate Sporting Décor Elements Chocolate Just Sports Décor Elements	$67.90	$47.54
120307	Sporting Bundle #3 Large Black Sporting Décor Elements Black Just Sports Décor Elements	$67.90	$47.54
114864	Ginormous Flowers I Décor Elements	$39.95	$27.97
114863	Ginormous Flowers II Décor Elements	$39.95	$27.97
112534	5/16" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$7.95	$5.57
112533	5/8" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$6.95	$4.87
112081	Scallop Square punch	$15.95	$11.17
113693	Full Heart punch	$15.95	$11.17
113694	Heart to Heart punch	$15.95	$11.17
112091	Scallop Edge punch	$15.95	$11.17
112571	Circle Designer brads	$5.95	$4.17
112579	Flower Designer brads	$5.95	$4.17
112572	Star Designer brads	$5.95	$4.17
114785	Small Wonderful Flowers Décor Elements	$39.95	$27.97
114786	Medium Wonderful Flowers Décor Elements	$69.95	$48.97
114791	Small Wonderful Leaves Décor Elements	$39.95	$27.97
114792	Medium Wonderful Leaves Décor Elements	$64.95	$45.47

  *This bundle is only available while supplies last.

Sign up for Holiday Classes now from A Passion For Stamps Blog!

What a busy week this has been! I was working on updating my class schedule, my blog, finishing my Customer Newsletter and so on, so I didn't get a post in!

I'm in holiday mode now, as Thanksgiving is only 3 short weeks away, and Christmas always comes right on the heels of Thanksgiving-very quickly!

If you are in the Northwest New Jersey area, and are looking for some holiday stamping classes/camps to attend, you can now view them here from my blog! Just click on the calendar on the right sidebar, and you will be able to find out:

• what classes/camps I'm offering
• the dates and times classes/camps are offered
• the Class Fee
• how to register and prepay-right now, from here!

My Passion for Stamps Studio is located in my Hardyston, Sussex County, NJ home where I conduct the classes. Each class/camp session is limited to twelve people. For the upcoming holidays, I'm offering four sessions to make Christmas cards at a Stamp-A-Stack camp, and other classes where you can make stamped gifts for the holidays, boxes, bags, embellishments, tags and stocking stuffers!

It's a great way to prepare for the holidays STRESS-FREE! Get some of your friends to come along with you and turn it into a Girl's time out! What could be more FUN than spending some quality time with friends/family doing something you enjoy, AND getting your holiday preparations done at the same time!

If you have any questions or suggestions for future classes/camps- email me!

Have a great stampin' day!

My Holiday Big Shot Class Projects

I held my Holiday Big Shot class the other night and it was alot of fun! I provided attendees with a list of the 50 Materials that can safely be used with the Big Shot die cut machine...pretty impressive stuff! I also provided individual Instruction Sheets for each project, with the Supply list of stamps and acccessories PLUS the Big Shot Sandwich for each, as it can be confusing at first. Also included was a template for the Bigz #2 die showing how to fold, apply adhesive (only in one place-and it holds the box together) and assemble the box.

Here are the projects we made:

This card was made using the Petals-A-Plenty Textured Impressions Folder and the lovely Delightful Ornaments stamp set from the 2009 Holiday Mini Catalog. The Bermuda Bay cardstock is one of this year's new IN Colors-one of my favorites! Another favorite paper of mine is the Specialty Bride Paper found in Stampin' Up!'s main Idea Book & Catalog. The shimmer paint gives dimension to the ornament and compliments the specialty paper as well.

The next project we made was this adorable SNOWFLAKE EMBELLISHMENT...no stamps needed for this! We used the Originals Snowflake #2 Die with On Board Book Basics and FELT-one of the Fifty accepted materials to use with the Big Shot machine. I accented the center with a clear Rhinestone brad and a Filagree Designer brad (love these!)

Next we made a double Handled Gift Box (shared by stamping sister Diana Gibbs). We used Box #2 Die, and Christmas Cocoa Designer Series Paper and Grateful Greetings tag (both from the Holiday Mini Catalog). Can you tell I just adore this new mini catalog? In my opinion, it is the BEST one Stampin' Up! has produced yet!

Of course this box looks kind of empty, so we adorned it with the Snowflake Embellishment previously shown above! Doesn't this just dress up the box and make you want to fill it with goodies?

Using the Movers & Shapers Curly Label Die here, we stamped the poinsettia from Season of Joy and then added Crystal Effects to the petals...this really accentuates the flower! The Stamp-A-Ma-Jig assures exact placement of the flower-critical for this design!

Here is the grand finale: Dasher using Texturz Plate with Foil! Oh my goodness..how absolutely STUNNING it is to pair up foil and the Harlequin Texturz Plate! Just one more of the accepted materials that can be used with the Big Shot machine! 

There you have it...a great class showing various materials and dies with this incredibly versatile die cut machine! To learn more about the Big Shot machine and dies, and see some wonderful samples of projects, click HERE, click on SHOP NOW, then select DIE CUTS from the menu. I hope you can join us at other classes. I am going to be offering the Big Shot class regularly, because there are so many wonderful dies to try, and with up to 50 materials to try them with, we will never run out of projects to make!

Don't forget to check my Events Calendar for other upcoming classes-it will be updated tomorrow with classes for the rest of the year.  The next class will be a Christmas Card Stamp-A-Stack making 20 cards with matching envelopes! I'll post more about that tomorrow, so see you then! Thanks for stopping by,

DEALS OF THE WEEK-4TH AND FINAL WEEK!

A day late...sorry about that! (Guess I messed up my post a day challenge!)

This is the fourth and final week for Stampin' Up!'s Deals of the Week Promotion. Here are this week's deals being offered at a special price from Monday October 26 through Saturday October 31, 2009:

Week 4 Deals of the Week

Item	Description	Special Price
116214	Princess Party Kit	$9.99
116213	Pirate Party Kit	$9.99

   These kid's party kits are WONDERFUL & fun and will make party planning for your little princess or pirate a snap!  For only $9.99 each kit includes:

• die cut pieces to create 8 party invitations and envelopes!
• 8 purse or treasure chest boxes!
• 8 crowns or eye patches!
• 24 food toppers with picks!
• 20 paper pennants!
• ribbon or cord!

 

These kits are regularly $15.95! To order these or any other products online click HERE

What's really cool is you can have Personalized Name Stamps made up with "Captain" or "Princess" followed by your child's name! Wouldn't they love that? 

There are also coordinating stamp sets called Pirate Time and Princess Time that would make great gifts for your child! These are located on pages 74 & 75 of the Idea Book & Catalog.

I SO wish they had these when I did these parties for my son and daughter years ago!

But remember, special pricing of $9.95 for the kits lasts ONLINE only till 1:50 AM EST on October 31! Then the magical price reverts back to its regular price! To order online now, click HERE then click on the SHOP NOW button under my contact information! If you have any questions feel free to contact me.

Happy Shopping,

SPOOKY SKYLINE: Awesome Halloween Votives!

 I'm working frantically to get those last minute projects done for the Mistletoe Market Craft Fair which is TOMORROW! Thought I would make some votive candle holders I made while ago for the show...I used a retired wheel that Stampin' Up! NEVER should have been retired-it's called Spooky Skyline and it was the best wheel ever for halloween projects! I still use it in this project which is a favorite of mine. I don't remember where I originally CASED the card from but thank you to the creator for a great technique for this wheel! I decided to create other projects and this votive cup holder idea was born! I used the Brayered Spectrum & Embossed Vellum Technique to make this outstanding background-it just makes the wheel image POP, don't you think? I will do a tutorial for this later, but for now here are some photos (click on images to enlarge).

This is the front of my technique card I created from the card I made:

The background is made with the Pumpkin Patch Spectrum Pad (retired rainbow pad). The wheel image is embossed in black so it's striking against the colorful "spooky" background.

 

I created two votive holders-one with bows for the ladies and another with Silver Brads for the gents:

 

These votive cups are the perfect size, so I opted NOT to make the top & bottom edges jagged, as pictured on my technique card. I also used Grateful Greetings-a TERRIFIC new set from set from the new Holiday Mini Catalog 

            

Here they are pictured together:      

                                                                                                                                                

...and here it is how the votive holder looks when lit-SPOOKY!  

 

                      

                                                           

I made twelve of these for the Craft Fair...I really enjoy making them-they are fun and easy and sooooooooo cool!  So-what do YOU think of them?

I will post a tutorial for these next week...but for now I have to get back to creating-I have some "SPOOKY"  Peanut Butter Cup HALLOWEEN Treat Boxes I'm finishing up too, but that's for another post!

Don't forget to stop by the First Presbyterian Church of Franklin (Sussex County) NJ and spend some time perusing ALL the holiday goodies and crafts you will find at MISTLETOE MARKET Craft Fair 2009!

Have a great stampin' day! Look for tomorrow's post later in the evening-AFTER the Craft Fair.

NOTE: I tried to fix the formatting of this post, but can't get it right...(don't know html) so...sorry it looks kind of strange...no time for this-I'm going BACK TO CRAFTING! :)

Thanks for dropping by,

DEALS OF THE WEEK! week 2...and my Holiday Big Shot Class!

I apologize that I'm a bit late in posting this to my blog. Our son was home for the past two weeks on leave from the USCG...he was out on a cutter in the Caribbean for a few months and hasn't been home since May. Two weeks just FLEW by...Today we drove him to the airport and he is leaving for CA where he will be training for a new job with the Coast Guard as Operations Specialist so we won't see him for at least five months-unless he is able to come home around Christmas...(hoping).

So... as you can imagine, it has been a hectic time and I've gotten behind in my postings. I will do better-I promise! I am signing up for a blog-posting contest for National Blog Posting Month in November-with my Stamping Coach John Sanpietro and I have to pledge to post to my blog every single day for a month! (do you think I can do it????)  This is definitely a challenge for me...as I've been so inconsistent up until now with this, so cheer me on! I need to hear those encouraging comments from you so I know someone out there is actually reading these posts, and looking forward to 30 posts in 30 days!!!!

I still have time before the contest starts, but I wanted to start getting into the posting mode by giving you an update on some Stampin' Up! deals being offered each week this month...

Dates: October 1-31, 2009

Promotion Details:

During the month of October, Stampin' Up! will offer several discounted products as "Deals of the Week." No limits and no minimum purchase required.

Customer Weekly Deal Announcements:

   

    * Deal #1: Thursday, October 1, 2009; 2:01 AM

    * Deal #2: Monday, October 12, 2009; 12:00 PM

    * Deal #3: Monday, October 19, 2009; 12:00 PM

    * Deal #4: Monday, October 26, 2009; 12:00 PM

We are now in week 2 of the DEALS OF THE WEEK! Here are the specials good till Monday October 19:

Item                    Description                                     Special Price

115961                 Perfect Setting Bigz XL die                $25.99

114515                 Flower Burst Embosslits die                $ 5.99

116760                 Pop-Up Three Tier Cake Bigz XL die     $25.49

If you would like to place an order for these specials and/or order other products,click HERE then click on SHOP NOW under my Contact information.

To learn more about Stampin' Up!'s awesome Big Shot machine and to use some of Stampin' Up's exlusive dies, gather a few friends together and sign up for my Holiday Big Shot Class

This class is being offered on three different dates and times for your convenience! If you sign up now, you will get the earlybird price and save $3! 

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Holiday Big Shot Class $23 thru 10/26

Session I Thursday 10/29 10-12 p.m. $23.00 Session II Thursday 10/29 7-9 p.m. $23.00 Session III Sunday 11/1 1-3 p.m. $23.00

Have a great stampin' day!

HOLIDAY STRESS RELIEF TIPS FOR YOU!

Good Morning!

I came across a wonderful website called CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS that has some great articles about tips for the Holidays! We can all benefit from ways to keep the stress levels down during the weeks of preparation leading up the holidays! Too often we just wait too long to get started, and we don't have a plan! This article gives common-sense advice so we can really enjoy this wonderful holiday season stress-free! I hope you enjoy it!

While we are on the topic of stress-free holiday preparations, if you have not signed up for my *CUSTOMER Mailing List yet, you are missing out on my FREE Twelve Weeks of Christmas Projects delivered to your inbox bright and early, every Tuesday morning! I am providing this only to those on my CUSTOMER mailing list... so if you enjoy stamping, scrap booking, papercrafts & home decor, you may enjoy receiving my newsletter too.

We are currently in our fourth week-about 1/3 of the way through the promotion, but there are still 8 more weeks of cards, gifts, bags & tags projects that I have to share with you.

Each project includes:

• a photo of the project
• a list of the supplies you will need
  
• step-by-step instructions for making the project

To sign up for my Customer Mailing List, just enter your email address in the upper left sidebar. After you have signed up, you will receive a project the following Tuesday. If at any time you have any questions about the projects or you would like to purchase any of the supplies, just email me and I'm always happy to help. Or, my Stampin' Up! website address will be provided in the emails so you can order online yourself-24/7!  Here's to a stress-free holiday...

*Stampin' Up! Demonstrators: Please respect that my Customer Mailing List is intended for my customers and potential customers. Thank you.

ARTICLE: HOLIDAY STRESS RELIEF TIPS

"As the winter holidays near, our stress levels go up. Does just thinking about Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's make you tense? Do you feel like Scrooge? You're not alone, in fact, you're the majority!

It becomes very difficult to savor time with your family and friends when you've got too many responsibilities and not enough time. Many of the duties such as cleaning, decorating, cooking and shopping for gifts are mostly assigned to women. With this in mind, it's no doubt that the holidays can be the most stressful time of the year.

Don't endure another stress-filled holiday season! This article will outline some great tips for you to ease up on yourself and take pleasure in the small things that often go unnoticed when you've got too much on your to-do list.

Make To-Do Lists

By making lists, you're acknowledging what you need to get accomplished. Underline everything on the list that is an absolute MUST and do those things first. Usually, these are the most difficult chores and are best accomplished early on. Just by having a to-do list, you reduce the stress of trying to remember everything and ensure you won't forget the most important things that need attention.

Be Organized

Whether it's your kitchen pots and pans or Christmas wrapping paper, arranging things in an organized manner will make jobs easier to tackle. Invest in some plastic storage containers for Christmas decorations and use a large empty popcorn tin to store your bows so they don't get smashed.

Have you ever been buried in gifts and wrapping paper only to realize you can't find the tape that you just had in your hand 30 seconds ago? Have 2-3 rolls of tape on hand and you won't be looking for long. The same goes for scissors and pens to write on your gift tags. Use empty shopping bags for a makeshift trash can.

Get Help

For immediate holiday stress relief, distribute some tasks on your to-do lists to family members. You probably won't receive any help if you don't ask, so don't be shy. Put the family on notice that if your holiday is going to be perfect, it's going to have to be a group effort. You may notice that some things your family always wanted seem less important to them now if they're the ones responsible for doing it.

If you're hosting the family Christmas dinner, ask for assistance. Most guests are willing to bring an appetizer or side dish to help complete the meal. Let them know ahead of time which variety of foods you need them to bring along. Better yet, have some of them arrive early to set the table and handle any last minute meal preparations.

Set a Budget

And stick to it. From Christmas gifts, decorations to food, avoid overspending. You're not going to appreciate credit card debts in January and February, so set limits for gifts. Have family members make a wish list with only items in the price range that was agreed upon.

Don't be tempted to bend the rules and spend more. This will lower your resolve and soon you'll be spending more than you anticipated. Most larger families find it much easier to draw names for Christmas. Thanksgiving is the ideal time to do this and it gets everyone into the holiday spirit.

Pamper Yourself

The days leading up to Christmas are the most stressful, so make time for yourself. Find some solitude in a warm bubble bath and relax. Trigger your senses with aromatic potpourri and scented candles. Kick back and listen to soothing Christmas music and take a cat nap if necessary.

Plan a day or just several hours only for yourself. Get your hair cut, have a massage, paint your nails and catch up on current events. This will do wonders for your stress level and self esteem."

Four-piece Chocolate Nugget Box Gifts from Stampin' Up! Matchbook Die!

Well I'm getting ready for the 2009 Mistletoe Market Craft Fair at my church this Saturday October 24 from 10-3...if you happen to be in the Northern New Jersey area, specifically Sussex County, come and look us up! Go here for the website of the First Presbyterian Church of Franklin for it's location and phone number. This is our third annual event. Be sure to stop at my table to shop and chat, do a Make & Take, and don't forget to ask me for a door prize slip-I'm giving away a set of ten Christmas Cards to one lucky winner! There will be other drawings too during the day, and great food brewing in the kitchen, so come and get a head start on that holiday shopping!

I've been getting my projects ready for the Craft Fair, and working on 3-D projects. If you've been following my posts the past few days you know that I'm hooked on the Big Shot™ Die-Cut machine from Stampin' Up!, so I pulled out my Bigz XL Matchbook Die that arrived awhile ago. I've been anxious to play with it, but just hadn't been able to find the time, so it was fun giving it a try. I came up with this *sweet* little 4-piece Hershey's Nugget gift box:

 

The photo is a bit fuzzy, as I was up late working on this last night, (and I was seeing fuzzy myself by the time I took this photo), but I did a great job NOT getting a glare from the clear window sheet cover, didn't I? If I didn't tell you, you wouldn't even know it was there, would you? It's almost invisible! But it is there, a simple wrap around cover... I wanted folks to be able to see what was inside, because if you have ever done Craft Fair events, I'm sure you've experienced little children who just LOVE opening things...they are so curious and inquisitive, so they just HAVE to find out what's inside boxes when they have lids on them, and it's always when you are busy helping someone else too! I think since I'm covering the nuggets with such pretty paper and leaving the shiny edges of the candy wrappers exposed, that it's nice to show off the inside with clear packaging.

I used the Holiday Lounge Designer Series paper from Stampin' Up! (of course) and just love all their double sided-papers! You can see the Hershey's candies are wrapped in both sides of the paper (four fit PERFECTLY inside this completed matchbox!)

The die makes a little box, the wrap around lid, plus three tags, one of which is shown here. The DSP actually has little starry snowflakes on it, although you can't tell because I photographed this straight on, standing up so you could see the candies and the tag. I decided to try the Snowfall printed clear Window sheet over the white tag to carryover the snowflake theme.

Here is a rundown of how to make this project:

1. First I laid out my DSP over the box on the die; then I covered the lid with a piece of window sheet, and laid down the Snowflake window sheet over the tags, ran it through the Big Shot™.

2. Next I covered the tags with white cardstock and ran it through the machine again.

3. I stamped the greeting with ink on the white tag, then layered the snowflake tag over the white tag, so the words are visible through the snowflake window tag.

4. I assembled the box and lid according to the directions that come with the die.

5. Cover the chocolates with strips of the same designer paper.

6. I used Taken With Teal layered over a wider strip of Silver Metallic cardstock for the belly band, punched a hole in the tag and pulled the silver cord through the tie before tying the bow. 

I will make some of these, but then I'll switch to other colors and DSP for variety.

These are fun to make, go together pretty quickly and are easy-the result is SWEET elegance, so I'm sure they will sell well at the Craft show.

I hope you've enjoyed this mini tutorial...if you would like to order the supplies to make these, just email me and I'd be happy to let you know what you need!  If you would like some other project ideas check out some here.  Don't forget to leave a comment and let me know what you think of this project-and if you make some, I'd love to see it!

Have a great stampin' day!

Just What Is the Big Shot™ die cut machine by Stampin' Up!-and what does it do?

If you've never used the Sizzix Big Shot™ you don't know what fun you are missing! About a year ago, Stampin' Up! partnered with Sizzix to offer the Sizzix Big Shot™, a manual die-cutting machine. The Big Shot™ uses dies that can cut through a wide assortment of materials-up to 50 to be more precise, including cardstock, Designer Series papers, leather, fabric, plastic, chipboard and so on! This not only gives you unlimited possibilities for craft, stamping and scrapbooking projects but also home decor, fashion and jewelry projects! There are so many fun, creative things you can do with this machine. Here is the very first card (and one of my favorites) that I created last year using the SCALLOP CIRCLE BIGZ DIE with the Big Shot™: (click on images for enlargement and highlighted text for links)

This Designer Series Paper is retired now, but all the other products used are still available in Stampin' Up!'s current 2009-2010 Idea Book & Catalog. 

The stamp set is Upsy Daisy (111710 $18.95). I used Styled Vanilla Hodgepodge Hardware (112454 $29.95) for the tag, Brocade Blue cardstock (101166 $5.50) which I ran through the Big Shot™ and stamped the image with Versamark Ink (102283 $7.50). I then colored in the details with various ink refills and a Blender Pen (102845 $9.95 for 3). I stamped the saying, attached the hardware and finished it off with Bashful Blue Taffeta Ribbon (109066 $6.95).

debbiestamps.com All Images ©Stampin' Up! 1990-2009

So what exactly is this machine, how does it work and what can it do? There are two types of dies that you can use with the Big Shot™:

1) Steel-ruled dies and,

2) Chemically Etched dies

Examples of Steel-ruled dies that Stampin' Up! offers are Bigz, Bigz Clear, Bigz XL, Originals and Movers & Shapers.  These dies do not require the MultiPurpose Platform, but cutting pads are required. (the catalog tells you which dies require other products you need when you purchase them). This type of die can cut through many layers of materials such as Window Sheets, Decor Elements, Texture Cuts wood sheets, On Board Long Board etc.

Chemically Etched dies are used WITH cutting pads AND the MultiPurpose Platform. This type of die can cut through only one piece of cardstock, Designer Series Papers and other thinner materials at a time, but the designs can be more intricate and detailed images. Examples of this type of die that Stampin' Up! offers are Texturz Plates, Embosslits, Sizzlits, Decorative Strip, Textured Impressions.

Maybe you already own a die-cutting machine and are wondering if Stampin' Up!'s dies can be used with your machine? The beauty of the Big Shot™ is that it is compatible with any die made by any company, making it the most versatile die cutting machine on the market! 

You may be wondering "So what can you make with the Big Shot™?" You can quickly and easily create die-cut or embossed shapes, envelopes, invitations, bags, tags, baskets, cards, scrapbook pages, home decor, jewelry, fabric embellishments and on and on...

If you can cut a material with your Craft & Rubber scissors, you can use it with the Big Shot™.

Here are a few more projects I made using Big Shot™: (click on images to enlarge)

This is a Flower Pot card first shown all together, then lifting up  the card insert to reveal the message inside.  The flowers and leaves were made with the Stampin' Up! Simple Flower Embosslits die (114514 $11.95)

debbiestamps.com All Images ©Stampin' Up! 1990-2009

This is what I made at Fall Fest back in September-at a demonstrator event sponsored by my upline Tina; Isn't she adorable? This cute bear was made with the Sizzix dies from Build-A-Bear Workshop® including the Stampin' Up! Bear (117977 $23.95) and Stampin' Up! Beary Essentials (117978 $23.95) dies, which just came out in the Holiday Mini Catalog. These are so much fun-for kids and adults alike!

debbiestamps.com All Images ©Stampin' Up! 1990-2009

This Holiday Card is one that we will be making at my upcoming Holiday Big Shot Class !

Here the Stampin' Up! Petals-A-Plenty Textured Impressions Folder, offered in the Holiday Mini Catalog is used to make the background three-dimensional! (to view the catalog, click on the highlighted link and then click to download the PDF). It's hard to tell in this photo, but the ornament is shimmery-at class you will also learn how to do this cool technique, as well as learn how to use the Big Shot™. 

                                                               debbiestamps.com All Images ©Stampin' Up! 1990-2009

So... what do you think? Are you ready to give the Big Shot™ a try? The best way to find out if this product is something you've just got to have, is to come to class and TRY IT!  I know I fell in love with this product as soon as I had a chance to see what it can do and I could play with it! At Class, every attendee will make at least 6 projects using various materials...and will also receive a flyer listing the 50 materials that can be used with the Big Shot™! 

Here's one more perk for you to come to class: if you purchase the Big Shot™ at class, I will credit $15 of your class fee towards your purchase making this class -almost Free! 

Read details about this class and how to sign up in THIS POST.  Earlybird fee paid by 10/21 saves you $3 off the regular price...

Do you want to come to class, but you can't make it on the dates the class is offered? (The class is held at my stamp studio in Hardyston, NJ). If you get a minimum of at least 6 friends to agree, all you have to do is contact me so we can coordinate a date, and I will bring this class to you! (CLASS TO GO is $25 per person after 10/21 or $22 if everyone prepays by 10/21.  Prepayment is REQUIRED and no refund can be given if someone doesn't show, but that person will receive the class supplies she paid for.)

I know you will come to love the Big Shot™ as I do! If you would like to order the Big Shot™ or place an online order now, click HERE, then click on SHOP NOW under my contact information.

HAVE A GREAT STAMPIN' DAY!

DEALS OF THE WEEK! OCTOBER STAMPIN UP SPECIALS FOR WEEK 3 ARE HERE!

Dates: October 1-31, 2009

Promotion Details:

During the month of October, Stampin' Up! will offer several discounted products as "Deals of the Week." No limits and no minimum purchase required.

Customer Weekly Deal Announcements:    

    * Deal #1: Thursday, October 1, 2009; 2:01 AM  EST

    * Deal #2: Monday, October 12, 2009; 12:00 PM  EST

    * Deal #3: Monday, October 19, 2009; 12:00 PM EST

    * Deal #4: Monday, October 26, 2009; 12:00 PM  EST

We are now in WEEK 3 of the DEALS OF THE WEEK! Here are the specials good till Monday October 26:

Dates	Item	Page	Description	Regular Price	Sale Price
October 19, 10:00 AM (MT) through October 26, 9:50 AM (MT)	114348	179	Basic Jumbo grommets	$6.95	$4.49
	109857	179	Mini Library clips	$12.95	$8.99
	122571	179	Circle Designer brads	$5.95	$3.99
	112581	179	1/2" Library clips	$6.95	$3.99

If you would like to place an order for these specials and/or order other products,click HERE then click on SHOP NOW under my Contact information.

CLASS EARLYBIRD SPECIAL PRICE REMINDER: ONLY 2 MORE DAYS to sign up at the EARLYBIRD PRICE of $20 for my Holiday Big Shot Class at my stamp studio in Hardyston NJ! To learn more about Stampin' Up!'s awesome Big Shot machine and to use some of Stampin' Up's exlusive dies, gather a few friends together and sign up for my Holiday Big Shot Class

You won't want to miss this class where you will make 6 amazing projects and learn about all the other mediums that can be used with Stampin' Up!'s incredible die cut machine called the Big Shot! This class is being offered on three different dates and times for your convenience! After October 21, the price goes up by $3! If you sign up now, you will get the earlybird price and save $3! 

Holiday Big Shot Class Price $23 thru 10/26

Session I Thursday 10/29 10-12 p.m. $23.00 Session II Thursday 10/29 7-9 p.m. $23.00 Session III Sunday 11/1 1-3 p.m. $23.00

In tomorrow's post, I'll tell you why you need a Big Shot and what it can do for you!

Have a great stampin' day!

Register now for upcoming Autumn/Holiday Card Camp & Big Shot Classes!

After attending Fall Fest, I have so many wonderful ideas to share! With the holidays coming up you will love these upcoming classes where we will learn new techniques while making cards and projects using new stamps, accessories, Designer Series Papers and more! (see previous post with photos). Details can be found on my Stampin' Up! website, so if you are in the Northern NJ/Southern NY/PA area, come on and join us! After you check them out, come back here to sign up or email me !

Register now for:

Autumn/Holiday Card Camp $20 thru 10/11

Session I Fri 10/16 7-10 p.m. Session II Sat 10/17 10-1 a.m.

 (Late Registration 10/12 thru 10/15 additional $3 will be added)

Holiday Big Shot Class $23 thru 10/26

Session I Thursday 10/29 10-12 p.m. $23.00 Session II Thursday 10/29 7-9 p.m. $23.00 Session III Sunday 11/1 1-3 p.m. $23.00

Looking forward to stamping with you!

Happy Fall!

A Few Photos From Fall Fest 2009 featuring the Holiday Mini Catalog!

A few weeks ago, I spent the day with some of my downline from my local S.O.S. Team (S.aving O.verwhelmed D.emonstrators) of Stampin' Up!  demos at an event my upline Tina sponsors twice a year (Spring Fling & Fall Fest).

It was really a fun day where demonstrators spent some time with their stamping sisters visiting, making new friends, seeing old friends again, stamping Make & Take projects, viewing live demonstrations for new products, swapping cards, getting new ideas and so on.

This one was special because a friend and stamping sister-Karen Barber and one of her dl girls Michele Zindorf (both are FABULOUS and talented stampers) came back east from Ohio where they live, to help with the M&T projects and see old friends again! These are my renditions of their projects that we made:

This is Michele's card using the adorable Wandering Words set from the new Holiday Mini Catalog...isn't this just dreamy?!!! Makes you want to get out the toboggan, doesn't it?

You won't want to miss my Holiday Card Camp where I will show you how to make this card!

...and this is Karen's card: (click on photos to see larger image)

Isn't this drop dead GORGEOUS? Believe it or not, the background design is NOT one of Stampin' Up!'s Designer papers but both the background and central floral image (sorry about the glare) were made with the Charming set #116519...also from the Holiday Mini on page 32!

Stamps were used to create the beautiful background. The greeting is from Short and Sweet #115060. Cardstock used is Melon Mambo 115320 (one of this year's new IN colors), Shimmery White #101910 and Basic Black #012851. The technique is called Black Magic with a White Twist... a technique you will learn at the upcoming Autumn/Holiday Card Camp as well!

Here are the other Make & Take projects we took home:

 

This card designed by Kelly Mahoney utilizes the new Sweet Treat Cups from the Holiday Mini Catalog. So much fun!

This will be a popular product-for ANY season of the year! 

                     

Here's the Photo Cube (available in Holiday Mini Catalog) that we decorated as we wanted...with the Designer Series Papers in our packets. We used stamps from the Define Your Life set too. The photo cubes are new in the Holiday Mini Catalog too!

Notice that little green photo clip at the top? Those are fun and available for purchase as well from Stampin' Up!

The leaves are die cut using our Big Shot™ machine and Sizzix Leaves #2 die. Click Click HERE to learn more about this great product system

                                                                                     

Have you heard about Stampin' Up!'s partnership with Build-A-Bear™?  This is loads of fun for young and old alike! In our Holiday Mini Catalog is a section devoted to this new series of products: stamp sets, Die Cuts for the Big Shot™ machine and even Designer Series papers!

This is so adorable! It's like using those Color Forms (is that what they were called) years ago when I was a little girl...

There are so many ways to make this fun for kids or grandkids...attach magnets to the back and decorate a tin to keep all the pieces in one place! To learn more about these great new products, click HERE

Here are some of my downline enjoying the day:

                                                                                                   

And here we are together...(check it out-there isn't a single part of the table showing!)

All in all it was great to get out and spend the day with friends doing what I love most-stamping!

I even got to take home the table centerpiece-another photo block! (love these!)

My favorite number just happens to be-seven! Just got lucky, I guess...

I just love everything in the Holiday Mini Catalog this year....have you checked it out yet? Click HERE to see the online catalog, or contact me if you would like one! 

HAPPY FALL!

Fall is here, but Christmas is right around the corner!

I'm ready to get going again, now that fall is here!  I love all the seasons, but fall is special. Leaves turning gorgeous colors, pumpkins, apple picking and the crisp cool scented autumn air are signs that nature is changing seasons once again...

Of course it also means that CHRISTMAS is also just weeks away, (12 weeks from now to be exact) and this year I'm kicking off the holiday season with  a special Twelve Weeks of Christmas Projects Event!

What is this event? Starting October 1, each week for the next twelve weeks I will be sending out A HOLIDAY PROJECT IDEA only to those on my CUSTOMER mailing list! Projects will include:

• COLOR PHOTO of the project!

• the SUPPLIES LIST so you know what you need  (including the item # if you need to order it)!

• the INSTRUCTIONS to make the project!                                                                                                                       

These projects will not be offered on this blog, but is an EXCLUSIVE offer only for my CUSTOMER mailing list! Please note: If you are a Stampin' Up! demonstrator, please be respectful and  refrain from joining my CUSTOMER mailing list.

You aren't on my customer mailing list?  That's easy to remedy-as a gift to you for signing up on my customer mailing list, you too can receive these twelve awesome free project ideas sent out weekly which include:

1. Holiday CARD PROJECTS!
2. Holiday GIFT IDEA PROJECTS!
3. Holiday BAGS, TAGS OR WRAPPINGS PROJECTS!

you DON'T want to miss out on these Twelve Weeks of Christmas projects....so don't forget to sign up!  It starts October 1 but you can sign up anytime to start receiving Christmas project ideas every Tuesday!

To sign up for my customer mailing list, simply add your email address to the box in the upper left sidebar right above my picture...

HAVE A TERRIFIC STAMPIN' FALL DAY!

Seeking Crafters & Home Consultants for local Craft Fair

The First Presbyterian Church of Franklin NJ is seeking CRAFTERS and HOME CONSULTANTS only for our Third Annual Mistletoe Market Craft Fair to be held on Saturday October 24, 2009 from 10-3 p.m. This is a fun show that is located just minutes off Route 23 in Franklin NJ. The church does have a wheelchair access area. There will be a DJ playing Holiday music, and the Presbyterian women always serve some delicious food in the kitchen! I am a member of the church so of course being a demonstrator, I will be representing Stampin' Up!. 

If you would like to be considered, applications will be accepted thru October 20. Please note that exclusivity is offered to Independent Consultants on a first-come first-served basis and only one representative from each company will be accepted.

Click on the following link to learn all the details and print the online application:

2009 Third Annual Mistletoe Market

We anticipate another wonderful event and hope to see you there!

2009 Stampin' Up! RETIRED Lists are here!

THIS POST WILL REMAIN AT THE TOP OF THIS BLOG UNTIL JUNE 30. Please scroll down for new June posts.

RETIRED ACCESSORIES LIST-MOST RECENT UPDATE: June 11 5:00 p.m. (Remember to CHECK THIS LINK DAILY for current availability and order online HERE asap to be assured product is still available)

MY JUNE SPECIAL: ORDER ANY DISCONTINUING STAMPS/ACCESSORIES & HOME DECOR ELEMENTS FROM ME IN JUNE, AND RECEIVE A 20% DISCOUNT ON YOUR TOTAL (before tax & shipping) TO SPEND IN JULY (with a minimum $50 purchase) From the NEW 2009/2010 IDEA BOOK & CATALOG!

Stampin' UP has released the retired lists for the Spring/Summer Catalog-and many are discounted! But these items sell FAST, so be sure to check out these items right away and place your order asap. The Accessories list will be updated DAILY as items are sold...so check back each day for product availability.

Last Chance Accessories up to 50% off! These are limited time only...while supplies last! Each day, check back here for an updated list to see what is still available. The quickest way to be assured of receiving these items before they sell out is to order online HERE and click SHOP NOW.

Last Chance for select accessories & Home Decor items at up to 25% off!  Click HERE and click SHOP NOW to order online.

To view the other individual Last Chance Lists, click on the following:

RETIRED STAMPS (alphabetical)

RETIRED STAMPS (numerical)

RETIRED DECOR ELEMENTS

CURRENT DORMANT LIST (these are not in current catalogs but ARE available thru June 30, 2009)

You can also email me with questions or to place an order: dvanstamp@embarqmail.com

Here is the Retiring Stamps & Hostess Sets List in case you cannot open the above links:

PLEASE NOTE: Last Chance Stamp List Updated
June 6, 2009

We have updated the Last Chance Stamp List. Spanish stamp sets have been added, and we have removed the following stamp sets from the list:

113732: Central Park  
113688: Wonderful Watercolors  
 
These two sets will appear on the Dormant List which will post July 1.

Retirement List

List of all Retiring Stamp Sets:

ABC Alphabet Lower
ABC Alphabet Upper
ABC Images
Absolutely Fabulous
Acuarelas maravillosas
All Scallops
Always In My Thoughts
Baroque
Beautiful Baby
Beautiful Borders
Bella Blossoms
Best Bee Four-Line
Best Bee Three-Line
Best Kind Of Friend
Big Birthday Candle
Big Bold Birthday
Big Deal Alphabet
Big Deal Numbers
Big Flowers                                                                                                 Birthday Counts
Birthday Wish
Blooming with Love
Boatloads of Love
Celebrations
Classic Four-Line
Classic One-Line
Classic Stripes
Classic Three-Line
Classic Two-Line
Contemporary Four-Line
Contemporary One-Line
Contemporary Three-Line
Contemporary Two-Line
Decorative Design
Doodle This
Elegant Cheer
Elegant Flower Four-Line
Elegant Flower Three-Line
Felices fiestas
Flowers in Silhouette
Forever
Frames with a Flourish
Free & The Brave, The
Fun Flowers
Glad Friends
God Is Love
Great Grads
Happiness Is a Journey
Happy Heart Day
Heartfelt Thanks
Heritage Holiday
Holiday Trinkets
Holidays & Wishes
Hugs & Wishes
If the Halo Fits
Illuminations
In Everything Give Thanks
In Good Form
Independence Day
It’s a Sign
Just B
Kindred Spirits
Large Text-Only Simple Serif One-Line
Large Text-Only Simple Serif Two-Line
Life’s a Breeze
Little Birdie Told Me, A
Lovely Labels
Many Happy Returns
Morning Soft                                                                                                   Note of Thanks
One Smart Cookie
Organic Outlines
Outlined for Fun
Perfect Princess
Pinch Proof
Prehistoric Pals
Pretty Amazing
Say It with Scallops
Seaside
Seeing Spots
Short Order Alphabet
Short Order Numbers
Simple Serif Mini Alphabet & Numbers
Snow Burst
Something New to Love
Stitched Exotics
Sweet Celebrations
Sweet Sampler
Sweet Serendipity
Tableau of Terror
Tag It
Thoughts of Father
Ticker Tape Alphabet
Time to Party
To Have and to Hold
To You & Yours
Wild about You
Wonderful You
Zoofari

2009 Hostess Sets:

Comfort Food
Darling Dots
Dear Friend
Dream a Little
Echoes of Kindness
God’s Beauty
Goody-Goody Gumdrops
Itty Bitty Buds
Little Somethin’, A
Rustic Rooster
Sweet Little Sentiments
Puntos primorosos
Querida amiga
Sueña un poco
Ecos de bondad
La belleza de Dios
Dulce expresiones
Un regalito
Sentimientos de dulzura

List of all Retiring Stamp Sets:

ABC Alphabet Lower
ABC Alphabet Upper
ABC Images
Absolutely Fabulous
Acuarelas maravillosas
All Scallops
Always In My Thoughts
Baroque
Beautiful Baby
Beautiful Borders
Bella Blossoms
Best Bee Four-Line
Best Bee Three-Line
Best Kind Of Friend
Big Birthday Candle
Big Bold Birthday
Big Deal Alphabet
Big Deal Numbers
Big Flowers                                                                                                 Birthday Counts
Birthday Wish
Blooming with Love
Boatloads of Love
Celebrations
Classic Four-Line
Classic One-Line
Classic Stripes
Classic Three-Line
Classic Two-Line
Contemporary Four-Line
Contemporary One-Line
Contemporary Three-Line
Contemporary Two-Line
Decorative Design
Doodle This
Elegant Cheer
Elegant Flower Four-Line
Elegant Flower Three-Line
Felices fiestas
Flowers in Silhouette
Forever
Frames with a Flourish
Free & The Brave, The
Fun Flowers
Glad Friends
God Is Love
Great Grads
Happiness Is a Journey
Happy Heart Day
Heartfelt Thanks
Heritage Holiday
Holiday Trinkets
Holidays & Wishes
Hugs & Wishes
If the Halo Fits
Illuminations
In Everything Give Thanks
In Good Form
Independence Day
It’s a Sign
Just B
Kindred Spirits
Large Text-Only Simple Serif One-Line
Large Text-Only Simple Serif Two-Line
Life’s a Breeze
Little Birdie Told Me, A
Lovely Labels
Many Happy Returns
Morning Soft                                                                                                   Note of Thanks
One Smart Cookie
Organic Outlines
Outlined for Fun
Perfect Princess
Pinch Proof
Prehistoric Pals
Pretty Amazing
Say It with Scallops
Seaside
Seeing Spots
Short Order Alphabet
Short Order Numbers
Simple Serif Mini Alphabet & Numbers
Snow Burst
Something New to Love
Stitched Exotics
Sweet Celebrations
Sweet Sampler
Sweet Serendipity
Tableau of Terror
Tag It
Thoughts of Father
Ticker Tape Alphabet
Time to Party
To Have and to Hold
To You & Yours
Wild about You
Wonderful You
Zoofari

2009 Hostess Sets:

Comfort Food
Darling Dots
Dear Friend
Dream a Little
Echoes of Kindness
God’s Beauty
Goody-Goody Gumdrops
Itty Bitty Buds
Little Somethin’, A
Rustic Rooster
Sweet Little Sentiments
Puntos primorosos
Querida amiga
Sueña un poco
Ecos de bondad
La belleza de Dios
Dulce expresiones
Un regalito
Sentimientos de dulzura

Stampin' Up! Hostess-June Special for you!

Are you ready to host a Stampin' Up! workshop? If so, June is a great month to do so! Stampin' Up! has a Summer Fun Hostess Bonus for you-check it out:

1. Hostesses in June who have sales of $250-$399.99 will receive an ADDITIONAL $20 in hostess free merchandise from any current SU! catalogs!
2. Hostesses in June who have sales of $400+ receive an ADDITIONAL $40 in hostess free merchandise from any current SU! catalogs!

If you would like to host a party this month, just email me @dvanstamp@embarqmail.com.

Passionstamper

a PASSION for stamps

Welcome to my little stamping corner of the world... I became a Stampin' Up! Independent Demonstrator because I have had a passion for the art of rubber stamping ever since I discovered it in 1989, when I first embossed and used stamps to make invitations for my son's first birthday party! I love to experiment with the endless ways to create with rubber stamps and appreciate the versatility of this fun craft.  I was thrilled to join Stampin' Up! as a demonstrator in 1996 and am so fortunate to love what I do and do what I love-because this has been my fun "job" ever since!  I invite you to peruse the artwork on this site, sign up to receive newsletter updates from me and visit my "other" Stampin' Up! website for information about various stamping and scrapbooking events, happenings and opportunities! Sharing my passion for stamping,

Big Change-Unexpected News for our Family!

I hope you are well and had a lovely holiday! We had the busiest holiday season and found myself totally overwhelmed! Ufortunately, blogging took a back seat for the past two months! (gasp! can't believe it has been that long!) I didn't work on my craft fair projects until mid fall, which really set me back in preparing for them, and also doing all the regular holiday things.  We also had some unexpected news-our twenty-year old son Mike decided to leave college and join the U.S. Coast Guard! This was totally a shock not only to us, but also to our friends and families too.

When he was a kid, Mike and his best friend Chris used to run around the neighborhood in cammoflage uniforms playing "war games"-he said he was going to join the Army one day. As a freshman in h.s. he had a burning desire to become a Navy Seal and was interested in anything having to do with the CIA or FBI-I guess we should have known that some part of him was drawn to a higher calling of military service.

When he graduated from High School in 2007, then enrolled in college, we had no idea he was still considering joining the the military. He has been pursuing a degree in law enforcement, so he felt the Coast Guard would best provide him with extensive knowledge, training and experience as he furthers his education in criminal justice.  He became an EMT in his junior year of High School, then took the training to become a dispatcher for our local police department, so joining the Coast Guard is right up his alley! 

Prior to his involvement, we had no idea it was so difficult to get into the Coast Guard. After many trips to East Orange, and overnights for him at Fort Harrison NY for physical endurance, fitness and scholastic testing, he has finally been accepted and sworn in, and leaves for basic training camp in Cape May NJ early February, followed by a guarantee of at least one year on the northeast coast. He signed up for 6 years active duty (2 inactive) so the sooner we all accept it--the better! We are incredibly proud of him for making such a decision, especially during a time of war. The Coast Guard comes under Homeland Security and the majority of their responsibility is protecting the US.

This Christmas was especially memorable and we have been visiting friends and out-of-state family since we don't know how long it may be before he can visit them again. These next few weeks will fly by and before we know it, he will be leaving. Six years is a long time-Mike's sister will be 22 when he get's out! No one knows what the future holds, but Mike is on his way to a future that will provide him with incredible experiences as he joins the ranks of the military, following in the footsteps of other family members who have served a tour of duty for our country: his father (Army), uncle (Navy), and his Grandfathers (Marines and Army).   I will give updates from time to time. As for now, I am anxious to get back to some kind of normalcy and routines again. If you are a coastie wife or mom, I'd love to hear from you!

It seems strange that I wasn't able to post holiday projects, but I will do that briefly in a separate post, along with some of my craft fair items.

With only one more week of the Fall-Winter Catalog and then the release of the new Spring-Summer Stampin' Up! Idea Book & Catalog on January 19, there is alot to tell you about!  Guess it's back to blogging, stamping and scrapbooking for me! 

Have a great weekend!

PASSIONSTAMPER

Thanksgiving Stamped Hostess Gift

Thanksgiving is approaching and it's one of my favorite times of the year! It's a day when our family members are all home together to share in the holiday feast. It conjures up scents of turkey & stuffing roasting in the oven, and the house is filled with the aroma of baked pies and other goodies...I can feel the warmth of the kitchen with candles lit just thinking about it! It happens to be my son's favorite day too....all the food, relatives, followed by football game. (This year, my birthday also happens to fall on Thanksgiving-November 27th!)

It may be the last Thanksgiving we can all be together--as our son is seriously considering joining the Coast Guard, so he can follow up on his education in the Law Enforcement field, as well as obtain knowledge and experience while serving his country. He is currently in college but this will probably be his last semester, as he will most likely be going to Boot Camp next year. Thanksgiving is my son's favorite holiday-so this one will be very special for us all, as we may not be able to all be together for the next one.

This time of year also brings to mind the many blessings we have to be thankful for. As I work on projects for craft fairs this fall, I make sure I also have a few for Thanksgiving. I love the concept of a Thanksgiving Blessing Mix which makes an excellent little gift to bring to the hostess when you visit family on Thanksgiving Day! Two years ago, Stampin' Up! partnered with Country Living magazine which featured a spread in their magazine for Thanksgiving decorating. I loved the stamp set that was featured that year, and even used one of the sayings in this year's blessing mix that I put together for Thanksgiving. Last time I made the blessing mix with everything in a cello bag and topper. This time I wanted to do something a little different, so I found this cute little jar to decorate and fill:

If you follow my blog, you know I am sucker for punch art, so I knew I wanted to use punches to make my turkey. I got the idea for the turkey design from a card I saw (made by Cynthia Stember) mentioned here on Patty Bennett's blog and just expanded on it. The feathers were made with half a scallop punch on various colored cardstocks, then sponged around the edges. I used dimensionals between every layer so the turkey really pops out and attached the whole thing with Pop Up Glue Dots. (the dimension is hard to see in this photo-but the turkey really stands out nicely!)  I made the pumpkin with three small punched ovals and pumpkin pie cardstock and attached with dimensionals...

I hand drew the cornucopia on cocoa cardstock that I first stamped with Aida Cloth (a retired SU background stamp) and added a 1 3/4" chocolate chip circle behind the turkey for dimension. The bow was added with a glue dot to the top of the cornucopia.

I used the Coluzzle to make the large circle behind it all with More Mustard cardstock.

I cut a strip of Autumn Vine Designer Series paper and attached that to the jar.
This paper is so pretty and is double-sided, so it shows on the inside of the jar, too!

I printed the Thanksgiving Blessing Mix from my computer onto mustard cardstock, then used the slot punch to attach it to the back of the jar with (retired) SU ribbon.

This is the Thanksgiving Blessing Mix-I added all these ingredients to cello bags which were then sealed and placed inside the jar.

I cut a circle for the top of the jar, again using the Coluzzle, and added the saying. and sponged the edges.

I finished off with a ribbon around the top.

Here is the same designer series paper used in the above jar, but in reverse.  It was fun to change the papers and accessories for a different look.

These jars were a good seller at the Misteltoe Market Craft Event at the First Presbyterian Church of Franklin NJ that I just participated in this past weekend. (I've been busy for awhile getting ready for this fair-that's why I haven't been posting to the blog lately). I had some half-finished jars that I didn't bring with me, that I wished I had completed!  I am offering those I have left for sale to my local customers or to anyone who is willing to pick them up. Contact me at 973-827-2893 if you are interested in purchasing this lovely Thanksgiving hostess gift. The jars make a great home decor item that can be refilled every year! Offer good only while supplies last....

This year, Country living is partnering with Stampin' Up! once again-not for Thanksgiving projects, but for Christmas ones! I'll save that for my next post!

TURKEY POOP

Another project I offered at the Mistletoe Market Craft Fair this year was Turkey Poop-very similar to what I did last year, but simplified:

Do you really want to put a smile on a loved one's face? I highly recommend this humorous alternative to the more serious hostess gift above-it really makes a great gag gift! These are quick and easy to throw together and would be adorable at the place setting of your guests this Thanksgiving...

At the craft fair, two elderly ladies stopped by my table; this item caught their eye-and as they read it they suddenly burst out laughing and just kept looking at each other, laughed some more until tears were running down their faces!

Sometimes the simplest things bring the most pleasure....let me know if you would like to purchase any!

CUSTOM MESSAGE TILES

I wished I had made more of this cook serving up the turkey...but all the tiles my daughter and I have made so far, are "one of a kind".  I knew this one would be snatched up...and I was right! (there was a glare when I took the picture)

I will not be making more of this design this year, but next fall I plan to make a bunch of these.

I will be selling Message Tiles all year long in my online store...soon! My daughter Kelley helps me make these and has come up with some adorable ones! Each set includes the frame and Dry Erase Marker which is conveniently attached to the top of the tile for easy accessibility.

I have a few of these that we use around the house. When I first put one in the foyer, my nineteen year old son left me a note on it that said: "Mom-this is stupid". Well for something so stupid, need I tell you who now uses these more than any other family member to leave us messages? You guessed it! I have one in the foyer and one in the kitchen-they really come in handy...and it's easy to use-just erase with a tissue!

If you have any particular themes you are interested in, please let me know and I will try to accomodate your personal interests. I also make these up as wedding gifts. If you are in the Hardyston NJ area, come and visit me at the Wallkill Valley High School annual Booster Club Holiday Craft Fair on December 6 if you would like to purchase these as Christmas gifts, as I will have some there for sale.

Thanks for visiting!

Blog Candy Giveaway over at Giovana's!

Wow-three posts in one day! I told you I missed blogging....lol! I just have to share that one of my faithful readers has some awesome blog candy she is giving away on Monday November 3, 2008!  Her name is Giovana Smith (I tagged her in a previous post) and she has a great blog called "A Place to praise and craft!"

Would you believe that all you have to do is guess Giovana's age-and you don't even have to guess right to be included in the drawing for the blog candy? To find out exactly what is in her blog candy giveaway (pictured below), and to find out how to increase your chances to win, go to Giovana's blog!

and when you do, could you let Giovana know she has been **TAGGED** on my blog? Thanks! She has a birthday coming up on Monday!  She hasn't been feeling well, and could use some cheering up! Want to know what you can win?? Here is the picture:

Isn't it just so inviting? Well-what are you waiting for? Hightail it over to Giovana's blog right now-cuz this great deal ends on Monday! By the way-Giovana was the winner of my blog candy giveaway when my blog reached it's first 10,000 hits! 

Thanks my friend, for the opportunity to win this terrific stuff! Great idea, Giovana-I have a birthday coming up myself on November 27...hmmmm..bloggers, should I offer some blog candy too? (only I don't particularly WANT folks to guess my age! LOL!) If you would like me to offer birthday blog candy, leave me a comment and let me know!

HALLOWEEN Photos-and more stamped treats!

Well Halloween is over! We don't get many kids at all-just about 10 who were mostly our immediate neighborhood kids. We always buy waaaaayyyyy too much candy to give out to the trick-or-treaters (but my family ends up gobbling it all up, of course! LOL)

Here are some photos of our foyer decorated for halloween and a few stamped projects on display:

Cornstalks, mums and pumpkins are a must for the front deck!

My daughter painted the pumpkin face-her first! We usually carve the pumpkins out but this year, we opted to paint them instead.

This is the table in the foyer all decked out and ready for the hoards of trick-or-treaters...ha, ha! (a whopping ten!)

The huge spider is usually hung in a web, but we ran out of time this year and just hung it over the mirror. It was very effective...we had some baby spiders that we would put in the web, so we put them on the lamp instead. Timmy, one of our neighbors youngest, was eyeing them because he LOVES spiders so we ended up giving him the babies...(we can always buy some more next year). At least we know they will be loved...

The pumpkin on the lower shelf is actually a soup turine with a matching ladle I purchased from QVC last year...(don't know where the ladle is-guess I hadn't put it in the bowl yet when this photo was taken). It's beautifully painted and I love to display it from September through Thanksgiving. I actually use it for homemade soups which I intend to make a lot of this year! There's nothing that compares to the warmth of a cup of hot homemade soup on a frosty bone-chilling day, to warm you up from head to toe!

ok...back to halloween....

This is the basket of pixie sticks I jazzed up with punched circles and the scallop punch using stamps from Batty for You-what a great set to make halloween treats with! The next photo will show a close-up of them.

Do you see the BOO boxes in the background? I made these last year with Creepy Crawly Designer Series Papers-and chipboard letters, Dazzling Diamonds Glitter and ribbons. Can you make out the stamped images on the letters? You guessed it-Batty for You stamps....I'm so glad they are still in the catalog and haven't retired!

Here are the Pixie Sticks close-up. They were quick and easy to put together-alot of punching and stamping, then sandwich them together over the top of each pixie stick...I had the leftover treat bags from awhile back so I used them, wrapped some jute around with my blog info tag, and that's it! Simple, quick and easy-that's all I had time for, but it's amazing how kids love these! (even our 15 year-old teenager! She is eating the leftovers I didn't use))

Here is a close-up of the pumpkin tureen I mentioned earlier...isnt' it beautiful?

The message tile next to it is one of the projects I'm making for craft fairs I have coming up-Mistletoe Market at the First Presbyterian Church of Franklin (in northwest NJ) on November 8 and Wallkill Valley High School's annual Booster Club Holiday Craft Fair in Hardyston on December 6. If you are local, come see me! It's a nice day and a great way to get a jump on holiday shopping for some unique and interesting gifts!

This is the Spooky Spider Jar I made with Decor Elements. I can't wait to try some other Decor Elements images! This was perfect because it coordinated with our "spider" theme. (Notice the basket with candy has spiders/webs on it too!) We're not into the gore and graphic halloween stuff...but spiders are ok, even though in reality, I absolutely detest them! We have Cave Crickets in our basement-have you ever seen them? I hadn't-until we noticed them in our basement one day...they really creep us out because they are HUGE, have VERY long thick legs AND--they JUMP!! Imagine finding them in your washing machine and when you look inside-they jump up into your face! HORRORS! (no wonder I have nightmares-who wouldn't!) We keep getting rid of them but there are still some in the basement-hopefully they STAY IN THE BASEMENT..and do not migrate to the rest of the house, or I'll have to move out! I remember I told one of my good friends (she's our neighbor) about them-she had never heard of them, and said how bad could they be? I challenged her to GOOGLE Cave Crickets-and when she saw a picture of what they look like, she couldn't believe it! She said she will never set foot in our basement again....(can't say that I blame her!!!! LOL) Unfortunately, our washing machine is down there so I have no choice!!!!

Let's move on to a much more pleasant topic-fall leaves and pumpkins! This is one of my message tiles up close. What do you think? I am making a bunch of different tiles to sell...I'll post more photos of them at another time.  I like to get creative and really add detailed artwork to these.  Do you see the colored jute bow I added to the pumpkin? We have this one in our front foyer, and another in the kitchen. They come in handy (saves on writing pads!) and I use Dry Erase markers which clean up easy with tissues.  What's nice, is my family actually USES them! This tile will also be displayed through Thanksgiving because the saying is  appropriate for this season of thanks!

That's it for today. I hope you have enjoyed this little peak into our Halloween home decor (and you thought stamps were only for card-making!).  Thanks for stopping by....Have a lovely weekend!

I'VE BEEN TAGGED by a stamper!

This is my first time being "tagged" and it was by Charlene Driggs of sunny Florida! Thanks Charlene! (My daughter LOVES snickerdoodles and Charlene has a recipe for Snickerdoodles on her blog, that I just have to try! )

I've been asked to give 5 answers to the following items:

Things I love

1. God
2. Our family
3. Our friends (they know who they are)
4. Our pets Shiloh (beagle), Patches (Calico Kitty) and Snickers (Silky Terrier)
5. My job-Stampin' Up!

Things I don't love                                                                                               

1. Hypocrites
2. Washing Silverware
3. Politics
4. Corruption
5. Olives

Songs on my MP3 Player

I don't own an MP3 player yet...just can't keep up with all this technology (I have enough trouble just keeping my blog up and running and my computer from crashing! LOL)

Favorite Food/drinks

1. Roasted Beef with roasted onions, potatoes & carrots!
2. Lobster, Shrimp & Crab!
3. Coffee & Chocolate Chip Mint Ice Cream scoops!
4. Grilled Chicken Salad with Balsamic Vinagrette
5. Pizza
6. Frozen Strawberry Daiquiri

(I just couldn't narrow it down to only 5!)

Tag 5 others-this is hard to do because there are so many folks I could select-it is hard to pick only five-actually I need to make it six, so here goes:

1. Giovana Smith
2. Michelle Laycock
3. Tracy Durcan
4. Lori Stevenson (one of my downline-she's an awesome stamper! Check out her new blog!)
5. Chrysalis Angel
6. Seaspray

This is a fun way to get to know others! I find each of their blogs to be enjoyable, touching, informative and/or creative! Have fun being tagged and tagging others!