Brandywine Designs

Make It Monday #51-Dimensional Sentiment Banner

2012-01-31T11:38:00.000-06:00

Make It Monday #51-Dimensional Sentiment Banner. OK fess up how many banners did it take you to get it right? Well maybe its just me and you got it right first try. For me it took 4 tries. First the color was not right, then I didn't like the background stamp, then I messed up the sentiment. But finally here is my card. My inspiration was this gorgeous Texas weather we are having: Sunny w/a high of 74.
Recipe
(All PTI unless specified)
Paper: Hawaiian Shores, Lemon Tart, Summer Sunrise, Library Ledger, Farm House-October After Noon
Other: Dies- Cloud, Limit Less Layers Circle , Buttons-Harvest Gold, Felt
Stamps: Matt Stack 3, Tag Its 3

Brandywine Designs Studio Tour Part 1

2012-01-30T11:26:00.000-06:00

I have been wanting to give you a tour of my studio for a while now. I wanted to get it just perfect. I'm still not completely there yet but close! I'm very blessed to have this room in our small house. The first thing I will tell you is the paint color: SEA KISS by VALSPAR. I love it. Aqua walls are supposed to bring calm and creativity.

I'm breaking the tour into parts. Today I am focusing on my new sewing corner. It started with getting a new sewing machine. I broke the old one. The new one is a Brother. I got it on sale at Hancock Fabrics. My studio table is too tall to sew at so I was dragging the machine to the kitchen table everyday. I really wanted a permanent place for it so I took an old desk we had out of storage to use. I had to rearrange lots of things to get it to fit. I will replace the desk with a sewing table someday. You can see my dress form Milli with her vintage millinery flowers.
I store all my twine on the peg board. I wrapped twine I had bought in bundles on old shutter slats. I removed the slats from the shutter then drilled a hole on one end.
I bought the 3 tiered bucket thing at Hobby Lobby. I made the top bucket into a pin cushion. The other two buckets hold my precious vintage, hand crocheted doilies and lace. The vintage fabric sample sheet is one of my favorite things. I love the roses.
If you have any questions feel free to contact me. I will be back soon with more of my studio tour.

Books & Buttons

2012-01-26T12:33:00.000-06:00

Just some photos that have been hanging out on my computer. I never tire of old books and buttons.

Blog Hop January 2012

2012-01-25T09:29:00.000-06:00

This months Papertrey Ink blog hop challenge was to post your favorite project of 2011. Then to use that project as inspiration and make something else.

This is one of my favorite cards of the year. You can find that Make it Monday post HERE. What I love about it is all the layers, soft colors, and tarnished silver glitter.

This is the card I made after being inspired from the first one. I think I like it even better!

I thought I would share a little on the process of how I make a card. I have read on forums and other places that some people have a little trouble incorporating pattered paper. I use it as the beginning inspiration. It is the first thing I choose. The rest of the project forms around it.

For both of these cards I had many layers that needed to fit together perfectly. The colors also need to work right with each other. What I do is stack the paper up with each one showing until I get the color compo I want. Then I lay each die on top so I don't get them mixed up. I have a Big Shot pro so I usually cut them all out at the same time.

I like the idea of using my own card as a starting point so much I made this. I took down everything from my Inspiration board and added wire. I then hung my favorite cards of the moment. I have already used it several times.

Thanks for stopping by! Happy blog hopping.

Happy Birthday Card Supplies

(All supplies Papertrey Ink unless otherwise specified)

Cardstock: Ocean Tides, Hawaiian Shores, Lemon Tart, Aqua Mist, Terracotta Tile

Paper: Farm House 6x6-Crate Paper

Dies: Butterfly, Butterfly Punch-Martha Stewart, Limitless Layers Oval

Stamp: Think Big Favorites #12
Other: Ocean Tide Buttons, velum, Provo Craft embossing folder, Versa Fine Ink, Sewing Machine

Crafty Dreams

2012-01-21T11:21:00.000-06:00

I woke up in the middle of the night with Shrinky Dink on my mind. It was so weird. All I could think about was how cool Simply Jane cameo would look with Shrinky Dink. It was hard to go back to sleep! I was afraid I would forget about it. First thing this morning I tried it and I'm so glad I did. Its adorable! Think of the jewelry you could make! I used Shrinky Dink Sheets, Staz On Black and White Ink. I die cut Mat Stack 4, Simply Jane cameo, and frame. I then stamped the pearls, and frame using Staz On ink. After that I just followed the Shrinky Dink instructions. I glued the frame and cameo onto the mat using Glossy Accents. The pattern paper is Bella Armoire from DCWV. I now have to go clean up the huge mess I made in my crafting frenzy! My husband saw it and said I was a hot mess. ha Enjoy your Saturday.

Love Card

2012-01-20T19:12:00.000-06:00

I got my PTI order from January's release today. Lucky me! I have been dying to make a frame with the Simply Jane die and stamp. It..is..awesome! I cut two frames from coaster board, then one frame from fine linen. After that I glued them together, stamped, and embossed. I just know I will be using it over and over again. The heart, flowers, and envelope are from my vintage supply stash. I'm going to try really hard to use some of my precious supplies instead of hording them! I'm simply running out of room. I also used Limitless Layers: 2 1/4" Oval Die Collection, Dearest Jane Paper, Block Alphabet Upper Die
Collection, and Pure Poppy cardstock. I hope you have a fabulous weekend. You know what I will be doing;)

Just A Card

2012-01-19T17:42:00.000-06:00

I got my To Do List done in super quick time today so I made a card. It is one of my favorites. I just LOVE aqua and cream. I used my new sewing machine to stitch it. I think it could be used for a wedding, new baby, or even valentines day. Thanks for stopping by!

Supplies:
Paper: Card stock: Ocean Tide, Aqua Mist, Vintage Cream (Papertrey Ink) Patterned paper: Farm House (October Afternoon) and Stella & Rose (My Minds Eye)
Stamps: Mega Mixed Messages and Mat Stack 2 (PTI)
Dies: Labels # 18 (Spellbinders) Mat Stack 2 and Mega Mat Stack 2 (PTI)
Other: Brother Sewing Machine, vintage mother of pearl buttons, vintage twine, and some embossing powder I bought at an estate sale with no label.
Ink: Old Paper (Distress Ink) Versa Mark Watermark Stamp

Valentine Shop Update

2012-01-12T14:33:00.000-06:00

Tomorrow, January 13th I will be adding my Mini Album Kit: Sweethearts to the shop. I only have 11 kits but I love how they turned out! Look for more mini album kits in the future because I'm hooked. Also available: Be Mine Banners. I just love the color combo red, aqua, and pink. I wish you lots of luck tomorrow! Its Friday the 13th!

Better Late Than Never

2012-01-11T09:08:00.000-06:00

Here are some pictures of my favorite vignettes in my home this Christmas. I'm leaving the antique photo wall collage up. I LOVE it. I will be listing Valentine's Day goodies in my shop in the next few days. I have a mini album kit I will be adding and some other things.

December 2011 Blog Hop

2011-12-26T10:24:00.000-06:00

Today is Papertrey Inks monthly blog hop challenge. This months challenge is to use holiday leftovers. I wrapped all my gifts in Kraft paper and used twine this year. That was the inspiration for my card. I took an extra large heart die and used last Make it Mondays technique to make a heart card.

Recipe:

Paper: Pure Poppy (pti) Vintage Cream (pti) Kraft wrapping paper

Stamps: Rosie Posies & Happy Day (both Pti)

Ink: Aqua Mist, Pure Poppy (pti)

Dies: Rossie Posies & Happy Day (both Pti), Heart Spellbinders

Happy Hopping!

Its Starting To Look Like Christmas

2011-12-08T10:38:00.000-06:00

I have been decorating for Christmas. I'm finishing up some projects I have wanted to do forever. I will share more as I finish.

Tag # 7

2011-12-07T13:12:00.000-06:00

Make It Monday #43: Ribbon Pleating

2011-12-03T16:59:00.000-06:00

Recipe:

Paper: Holiday Style-October Afternoon, Poppy & Aqua Mist PTI cardstock

Stamp: Pti- Love Lives Here: Holiday

Dies: Mat Stack 3-Pti, Tim Holtz-Rosette

Tag 2

2011-12-02T09:59:00.000-06:00

It day 2 for Tim Holtz 12 days of tags! My very favorite part of this tag is the paper! Tim used his Kraft Resist Paper Stash. I didn't have any so I made some. I will share how I did it so you can make it too.

1. I took some Kraft paper from Papertrey ink and stamped music with Versafine Onyx Black Ink.

2. I stamped the holly with green ink.

3. I used an Anti Static Bag for embossing and rubbed it over the whole tag. This step is very important. If you do not do it the sheet music will be embossed and you do not want that for this technique.

4. I stamped the sentiment using VersaMark Watermark ink. Then sprinkled clear embossing power and heat it.

That's how I made the paper. After that I followed Tim's instructions.

Just a note: you can find the greenery he used for the wreath in my shop.

Tinsel & Trim Pack

Tag-1

2011-12-01T17:16:00.000-06:00

December 1st means two things to me: my little sisters birthday and Tim Holtz 12 Days of Tags starts! Happy Birthday sister. I adore Tim Holtz! You must check out his blog and his awesome tags! Why not play along and make your own?

PTI Blog Hop

2011-11-25T11:28:00.000-06:00

Today is the November PTI blog hop! I took a break from Holiday decorating to make this card.
Recipe:
Stamps: 2011 Holiday Tags
Dies: Picket Fence, Mat Stack 2
Paper:Pattern Paper-Martha Stewart, Card Stock- PTI- Vintage Cream & Poppy

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T09:35:00.000-06:00

Merry Christmas Banner

2011-11-16T10:47:00.000-06:00

I have added my Merry Christmas banner to my shop. I made it with some of my favorite things: snowflakes, vintage mica, Damask, the colors aged paper, and red.

Make It Monday #41: Essential Glue Pad Tips

2011-11-14T16:09:00.001-06:00

Wow my make it Monday is actually on Monday for once! This Papertrey Ink challenge was to use glitter, flock, or Perfect Pearls with an Essential Glue Pad. I made several attempts before I was happy with the results. Glue pads seem to be a little finicky. I think this tag looks so pretty on this Kraft wrapped package. I also added the handmade frosted pine cones and glittered fern clothes pins. I really love how the tag turned out and I think I will be using this technique more. Thanks for stopping by!

Shimmery Holiday Tag Recipe (all items PTI unless specified)

Stamps: Tag-Its #3, Love Lives here: Holiday

Dies:

Love Lives Here: Holiday Die Collection, Damask Snowflakes Die Collection

Other: Martha Stewart Clear Glitter, Pearl Ex Powder, Pearls
Paper: Cream Coaster Board, Avocado Card stock

Card Challange

2011-11-12T12:08:00.000-06:00

I made this card for the Embellish Magazine. It was really a hard one for me because I hate the colors! But its good to craft outside your comfort zone. By the way I'm in love with Pinterest! Are you? You can find me HERE. I bought a waffle iron, new crockpot, and I'm desperately wanting a baby and puppy all because of Pinterest!

Holiday Shop Update

2011-11-09T17:09:00.000-06:00

I finally listed some Holiday items in my shop!

Christmas Paper Parcel

Vintage Christmas Apothecary Labels

All That Sparkles-Handmade Holiday Embellishment Kit

Tinsel And Twig-Holiday Embellishments

Vintage Style Mica Snow

Here is a card I made with some of the supplies.

The card stock and sentiment stamp are from Papertrey Ink and the patterned paper is from The Paper Studio -Holly Jolly. The pink paper is PTIs new Autumn Rose. It matched perfectly!

Autumn

2011-11-07T08:00:00.000-06:00

Its really starting to feel like Autumn around here! My husbands sweet grandmother passed away this week so I am behind on listing all my holiday goodies in my shop.But they will be here soon! I thought I would share a tutorial I did a few years ago. It makes a perfect center pieces for Thanksgiving. You can find it HERE.

Make It Monday #39: Multi-stamp Background Building

2011-11-03T14:26:00.000-05:00

This is my card for the Make it Monday Challenge. I used Tag Its # 8 for the background paper. Such a great little stamp set for only $5.00! All the paper is Papertrey Ink too.

What!? Its November!?

2011-11-03T11:44:00.000-05:00

I hope you all had a wonderful Halloween! Ours was superb! I must say however I am ecstatic it is over! Halloween is the busiest time in my shop. I start on it in the early summer. So as you can image I am SO over it. I'm late with my Christmas holiday items as usual but I will start listing them very soon! This year besides my Banners, cards, and tags I have lots of handmade supplies perfect for card making, scrapbooking, and gift embellishing. I am only offering a limited quantity this year. I really want to have time to enjoy the season and my family. I will leave you with a few peeks

Halloween Tutorial

2011-10-03T08:04:00.000-05:00

Hi! I'm still alive! Just swamped with orders from my SHOP. Yay! I thought I would share a Halloween tutorial I did last year. You can find it HERE. I hope everyone is having a lovely beginning of fall. Its finally starting to cool down around here! I have added Halloween Craft Kits from last years Joli Paquet. They are on sale.

Belinda The Little Witch

2011-08-25T14:16:00.000-05:00

I have something to share that I worked really hard on. I created some new Vintage Halloween items for my shop. It all started with a little story in my head and my sketch pad. Using sketches is new to me and I must say I'm really loving the idea. This is the story of Belinda the Little Witch!
It was Belinda’s first year at Witchcraft Academy. Her very favorite classes were “Animal Husbandry” and “You and Your Familiar“. She found her true passion was spending time in the Bat Belfry. Belinda loved sitting in the Belfry tower at dusk as the bats left for the night!
I can imagine a little girl having a Birthday party or Halloween party and using all of these handmade supplies. I also can see it all set up in a barn for a Autumn or Harvest party. Can't you see all the candles, pumpkins, and silhouettes?! So fun! I hope its a success I worked really hard on it.

My Boy Scout

2011-08-21T14:50:00.002-05:00

My Keegan is a Boyscout. He started Cub scouts as a Bear Cub in 3rd grade. He is now going into 6 grade and plans to go all the way to an Eagle Scout. We are really proud of all the hard work he has done. Boy scouts isn't just about fun. They do a lot of great volunteer work and learn so much about the environment. I have seen him grow and mature by being in boy scouts. I really think its helped him become a more giving, better person. I love the experiences it gives him. He was even on the front page of the news paper this summer! He volunteered to put up flags in 108 degree heat!
I normally do not do fund raisers. But, I believe in Boy scouts and popcorn sales fund almost ALL of Keegans activity. 70% of every purchase of popcorn is returned to the Scout, his troop or pack and his council. This is how he pays for supplies, camping, and trips.
This is why Keegan says he loves boy scouts "I love to go camping. I love to work hard and earn rewards.I get to spend special time with my friends. I like learning how to help the Earth and people."
This is how he said selling popcorn helps him "It allows me to go camping and do service for others."
So if you would like to purchase popcorn from Keegan it is all done online and shipped directly to you. If you would like an e-mail invitation to the catalogue to buy popcorn please e-mail me at Lavenderwolf7@yahoo.com.
If you would like it would also be great if you passed on the info.

Keegan and I thank you!

Back To School Teacher Gift

2011-08-19T08:24:00.000-05:00

Get a tutorial on how to make this cute Teacher or hostess gift HERE. I have made this several times and everyone loves it!

Back To School Labels

2011-08-18T09:00:00.000-05:00

School starts here on Monday. This will be my monkeys first day of middle school! We still have some things to do to get ready. I thought I would share a project I did last. These labels were made by me and I am sharing them with you. You can find all the info here. Come back tomorrow for a back to school tutorial!

Crafty Coffin Mini Halloween Kit

2011-08-10T15:19:00.000-05:00

This week and next week are crazy for me. School starts the 22nd. My husbands b-day is this weekend. My Keegans' birthday party is the next weekend. Plus there is shopping, dentist appt, doc appt, band equipment, hair cuts etc. Phew I'm already tired! However I did manage to put together a mini Halloween kits. I loved how everything looked in little piles on my kitchen table. So I took a few pictures. I kind of made a story to go along with my little collage.

A sweet little witch entered her jar of Pickled Eyeballs in the Spooky County Fair. And she won first place and got a ribbon! Hehe I think the heat is getting to me! If your interested in purchasing one of the kits they are in my shop!

Just A Photo

2011-08-01T19:38:00.001-05:00

Strange Bug In The Back Yard

My First Scrapbook Sketch Challenge

2011-07-28T12:15:00.001-05:00

I'm still not a big scrapbooker but I'm practicing. I found a sketch challenge blog and gave it a shot. I think it turned out ok. This is my adorable little niece. I think the quote I found totally sums up how I feel to be an Aunt. I used a lot of vintage items from my stash. I love mixing in the old with the new. Don't be afraid to try something new and mix things up!

Mr. Moo The Terrorist

2011-07-28T10:04:00.000-05:00

I thought I would give you an update on Mr. Moo. Well, in a blink of an eye he went from tiny furball to handsome cat. His nick name is the Terrorist because that is what he does. He roams around the house looking for trouble and someone to pounce on. Sometimes we all (humans and other furrys) get so sick of being ambushed and attacked that he has to go into timeout (the bathroom). Fortunately once his ~~evilness~~ playfulness has been expended he loves to cuddle.

Its just amazing how my 7 year old Sniffles took to him. Hes a bit of a grouch now days but loves Mr. Moo. My husband started calling him Grandpa because of the way he takes care of Mr. Moo. So sweet.

Now let me explain this picture. I have a screen door between my studio and kitchen. You know to keep all the furrys out, little boys, and sometimes husband. Mr. Moo climes it. Sometimes all the way to the top. We gave him a teddy bear when we first brought him home. He does not cuddle the bear. He takes out his aggression on it and acts like its prey. In this picture he is trying to carry the bear up the screen door. It reminded me of how big cats carry deer up big trees to eat! I have to say even though he is a little terror he has brought us so much joy this summer! We love him to pieces.

July 2011 Blog Hop

2011-07-25T14:47:00.000-05:00

Photo Credit

Today is Papertray Ink July blog hop. The above photo is the inspiration we were to use. I think its perfect summer colors.

Recipe:

(all pti unless noted)

Cardstock: Hawaiian Shores, terracotta tile, vintage cream

Paper: My Mind's Eye

Dies: double ended banner

New Stuff

2011-07-14T13:11:00.000-05:00

Cottage Kitchen Shadow Box

Sweet Dreams Banner

Hi! Hope everyone is having a lovely summer. We have had temperatures over 100 degrees for weeks now. Its a little rough but we are making due. I had a small panic attack after I realized my etsy shop has not sold anything in almost 2 weeks. I decided instead of concentrating on Halloween I would make some fun summery stuff. What have you been creating?

Create Banner

2011-07-07T16:40:00.000-05:00

I made this banner today. I'm in love with it!! You can find it in my SHOP. I'v decided to add all sorts of banners to my shop. I'v made two Halloween ones that are SO cute! I can't wait to share. Hope your having a super silly summer day!

Happy 4th of July!

2011-07-04T13:47:00.000-05:00

Today is Make It Monday #22: Multi-Color Stamping with Ink Refills. I thought I would post a card and wish y'all a happy 4th of July!
Recipe
(all items Papertrey Ink unless otherwise noted)
Paper: Rustic cream, Spring Rain, The Girl's Paperie-Kitch Collection
Stamps: Tag its #3
Dies: Fillable frames#4, Mat Stack 4, Angled Labels, Circle
Ink: Raspberry Fizz, Avocado
Other: Buttons-spring Rain, vintage-twine & trim, clear embossing, Red Brick & Paper- distress ink, cuttlebug-swiss dot embossing folder

The Circus Girl

2011-07-01T13:51:00.002-05:00

Yay today starts the 4th of July weekend! I thought I would share a card with you. I wanted to show one of the uses for the tags I sell in my shop. For this card I just trimed the hole off the tag but you can request no holes when you purchase them too!
I chose a Circus Theme because its big right now and I needed a burst of color after working on Halloween all week.
Recipe
Paper: Stella Rose-My Minds's Eye, Home Town Summer-Pink Paislee
Stamps:Tiny Tags-Papertray Ink
Dies: Double Ended Banner, Tiny Tags-Papertray Ink
Other:Twine-The Twinery, Sliver glass glitter, pen, seam binding, crepe paper, Circus Girl Tag-Brandywine Design
Ink: Hawiann Shores-Papertray Ink, Spiced Marmalade-Distress ink

Kits From The Halloween Past

2011-06-22T10:06:00.000-05:00

Spooky Pair Halloween Tag Kit

Boo Cottage Sign Kit

Spooky Mini Wreath Kit

I know Halloween! Has she gone crazy you ask? Last year I had request to offer my Halloween Craft kits earlier in the year. So here it is in June and you can find them at Brandywine Design! I also have new spooky labels, cupcake picks, and tags coming out. I have a limited quantity on the kits and when they are gone there gone! Happy crafting!!

Make It Monday #18: Adding Texture with Tissue Paper

2011-06-07T14:17:00.000-05:00

This is a card I made for Make It Monday #18: Adding Texture with Tissue Paper
My mojo is gone and it took forever to make. I just can't seem to finish any projects. But, from past experience I have learned you can't force creativity. So I'm not. I think its our 100 plus temperatures we have been having. It makes you want to do nothing. Hope its cooler where your at.

Trouble Disguised as Cuteness

2011-06-02T13:54:00.000-05:00

Just thought I would share some of the oodles of cuteness we have around here. Doesn't everyone LOVE kitten pictures! This guy is constantly into something. He has us laughing all day. Thanks so much for all the lovely comments on my last post. You guys keep me going.

Taking Time Out

2011-05-23T11:08:00.000-05:00

I know I have just let my blog and shop go hanging. I haven’t been visiting blogs. I have gone over and over in my head on how to explain it. Basically you have heard of stories of people who are dying or have had awful things happen to them. They start to really LIVE there life to the fullest. Well nothing big has happened to me. I just have taken some time out to make my life RICHER. I’v slowed down, and started to live each moment to the fullest. I have a wonderful family, home, and life. My son is going through a rough time and I want to be there for him. I want to make sure I appreciate it and enjoy it all. I have a lot of new ideas for Brandywine Designs but, right now its just not my priority. I will try to come back soon! This week is crazy. It’s the last week of school and my sister is graduating from High School. My son and step son are graduating from Elementary school. So busy but fun.
p.s.
I have been spending a lot of my day making sure this little new guy gets lots of love and cuddles too. His name is Mr. Moo!

New Things Coming Soon

2011-05-10T13:16:00.000-05:00

I'm still alive! New things and updates coming soon!

Make It Monday-Embossing

2011-04-04T11:18:00.001-05:00

I hope y'all had a wonderful weekend. We broke a high temperature record here. It was 97 degrees! I made this card for Papertrey Ink's Make It Monday. The polka dots and sentament are heat embossed with clear embossing powder. I think its very shabby chic. Enjoy!

Supplies
*all supplies Papertrey Ink unless otherwise noted
Stamps: Mat Stack 4, Think Big Favorites #1
Dies: Doily Details Collection, Limitless Layers: 1 3/4" Circle Collection, Mat Stack 4, Martha Stewart Butterfly Punch
Paper: Aqua Mist, Blush, The Girls Paperie, coaster board

Make It Monday

2011-03-29T15:08:00.001-05:00

I had to participate in this weeks Make It Monday's challenge at Papertrey Ink. The challenge was to use a ink blending tool. This was super easy for me because the Ranger blending tools are one of my very favorite tools. I use them on almost everything.

Supplies

Paper: PTI-Vintage Cream, Coaster Board
Ink: Distress Ink-Spiced Marmalade & Wild Honey
Stamps & Dies: PTI-Basic Labels, Tiny Tags

Shop Udate

2011-03-26T11:38:00.000-05:00

Hope your having a great weekend. Its so pretty here! I've updated my SHOP with a few spring/summer goodies. More to come soon! Thanks for stopping by.

Happy Spring

2011-03-22T14:31:00.001-05:00

Happy Spring! I think here in Texas we skipped Spring and went right into summer. We have already had temps in the 90's here. All the trees have already lost there blooms and leafed out. I have been doing a lot of yard work, getting ready to plant veggies, and spring cleaning. The pretty weather inspired this card. Hope your day is filled with spring flowers and warm weather!

Supplies:
Paper: Papertrey ink- Rustic Cream, Aqua Mist, Library Ledger
Stamps: Papertrey Ink- Spring Jar Fillers, Mat Stack 4
Dies: Papertrey Ink Dies-Mat Stack 4, Friendship Jar, Banner
Other: Buttons-PTI-aqua Mist, embossing folder-Swiss Dot, felt, Nest & branch-Cricut cartridge-Give A Hoot
Ink: Distress-Vintage Paper, Versafine-vintage Sepia

Two Challenges

2011-03-08T13:26:00.000-06:00

I'm participating in two blog challenges today. The cards could not be more different. The first one is CR84FN. The colors were Kraft, orange, and yellow. I don't think I have ever used that combo before. It was fun.

Supplies

Paper: PTI-Kraft, Orange Zest, Vintage Cream

Stamps: PTI-Spring jar fillers, Mat Stack 4, Taylored Expressions-Its a Banner Day

Dies- PTI-Limitless layers, Mat stack 4, Taylored Expressions Banner

Other: Vintage wallpaper, gems, Distress ink, lace

The second challenge was Make It Monday by Papertrey Ink. The challenge was to use distressing. Pretty easy for me since I distress EVERYTHING. My very favorite distress tool is Tim Holtz Distress tool. I love it!

I Heart Eggs

2011-03-07T09:26:00.000-06:00

I have been waiting forever for this! Ever since I got chickens I have been wanting to offer pretty blown eggs in my shop. Well finally all my chickens are laying eggs. When deciding what breeds of chickens to get I chose them by there eggs. Yes I love eggs that much! I wanted a variety of colors and shades. I love to decorate them and decorate with them! Of course this is the perfect time of year to do so. But, I decorate with mine year around. Not only did I want the perfect egg colors but the perfect little egg carton. I finally found it. Its just so cute and just right to decorate. Did you know you can stamps eggs? You can also use scrapbook rubons on them. And of course you can cover them in glitter, paint them, bling them up, and pile them into pretty, vintage bowls. I'm so excited to be able to share them with you! You can find them here.

The Girls when they were just chicks.

Spring Scallops

2011-02-25T09:39:00.001-06:00

Wow after yesterdays post this one is COLORFUL! Today is the February Papertrey Blog Hop. The challenge was to use scallops. I was thinking of spring when I made these tags.

Supplies:

Supplies are all Papertrey Ink unless otherwise specified.

Paper: Vintage Cream, Ocean Tides, Plum Pudding

Stamps: Mega Mixed Messages, Mat Stack 4

Dies: Doily Details Collection, Tag Sale #4, Limitless Layers, Butterfly, Cuttlebug- Scalloped Flower

Ink: Ocean Tides, Distress-Old Paper & Walnut

Other: Vintage twine, button, Martha Stewart Glitter, Ocean Tides Felt, Felt-Other

Black And Cream

2011-02-24T15:22:00.000-06:00

I think black and cream is my favorite color combination. Second would be aqua and pink. Black and cream reminds me of ancient book pages, aged newspapers, and antique handwritten letters. All of those make my heart beat faster. I'm (very slowly) redoing my bedroom to black and cream. I'm thinking burlap, swirly black vintage frames, and chippy black furniture. I want to take a huge blank canvas and cover it in antique book covers. I think it would look fabulous hanging over my bed. I made these two cards today. The photos aren’t great because we are in the middle of a dust storm and the light is strange. Got to love west Texas weather! Oh and almost ALL the supplies for the cards was Papertrey Ink.

Sew Very Vintage

2011-02-23T14:26:00.000-06:00

I adore vintage buttons and new buttons too! Here are some past post I have made about buttons #1, #2. I collect vintage and antique button cards. I'm making my own vintage style button cards now! They make gorgeous focal points for cards.

Supplies

Paper: PTI-aqua mist, vintage cream; Cosmo Cricket-Material Girl

Ink: Distress ink-Burlap, Paper; Versafine-vintage sepia

Stamps: PTI- Button Boutique

Other: PTI-Button dies

Part of my collection of vintage buttons

Make It Mondays

2011-02-21T11:00:00.000-06:00

Its Make It Monday at Papertrey Ink today. The challenge today is make glitter strips using Score Tape. I just recently discovered score tape. I have to say I'm hooked. I really love it. I use it for glitter, ribbons, buttons, and small pieces of paper. I was thrilled when I saw today’s challenge. I already had all my glitter and glitter supplies out. I have been making Glittered Spring Butterflies to add to my shop.(coming soon). The second I started to watch the Make it Monday video I knew what I was going to make. I am now happily covered in glitter!
*I have not been compensated in any way for this post. I'm just hoping to win stamps! ;)

Supplies

Paper: PTI- Vintage Cream
Stamps: PTI-Mega Mixed Messages
Other: Martha Stewart Glitter, Small Butterfly punch, Score Tape, chipboard

Something New

2011-02-17T13:58:00.001-06:00

I have a new kit in my shop. Its a diy gift tag kit! I plan on making all kinds in different sizes, shapes, and themes. We are having the most gorgeous weather ever! So I'm spending more time outside than crafting. Hope your having pretty weather too!

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T13:54:00.000-06:00

Happy Valentine's Day! Today is my 34th birthday!! Yay. I have been playing with one of my birthday gifts. Its the Campin' Critters Cricut Cartridge. I LOVE it! Its the absolutely best cartridge ever! I have 3 sons, two steps and one that's mine. Not to mention nephews, brothers, and dads. This cartridge is perfect for them. I already see a ton of things to make for my dad. Also my son is a Boy scout and we camp all the time. You can make cards, badges, and signs! I made this for Valentine's day card for my 11 year old who has totally been a stinker lately. The inside says "But,I love you anyways".

This is the card I made for my husband. He tries really hard to be a funny guy. He has a running joke where anytime someone says S'more he says "how can you have s'more when you haven't had any?". He says this every...single...time. So I made a package of s'more fixings and this card for him. I thought we could have a romantic night making s'mores by a camp fire. And by the way I totally came up with the card saying myself. I think its a funner joke than his don't you? lol

Celebrate

2011-02-11T17:08:00.000-06:00

Time to celebrate the weekend is here! Papertrey Ink is still having an anniversary party! The challenge this time was to make a tag with a frame. I used my favorite color scheme: cream, aqua, and pink. I feel I have a lot to celebrate this weekend. Like the near 70 degree temps we will be having. YAY! Also my family is coming over for Sunday dinner to celebrate my birthday that is on Monday.

Supplies

Paper: Vintage cream (PTI) Making Memories-Je t'adore

Other: Nestability dies, Vintage cream felt (PTI), wood button painted, gems, dollar store paper lace, Martha Stewart Glitter, vintage twine

A Color Challenge

2011-02-09T14:35:00.000-06:00

I adore color combinations. Color is what often inspires me. Papertrey Ink is still having their 4th Anniversary celebration. They are have so many awesome give aways! Today their challenge is all about color combos. I have to admit it got me out of my comport zone!

Honeycomb Tutorial

2011-02-07T10:40:00.000-06:00

I thought I would share a tutorial I did last year for Valentines Day.You can find it here: Honeycomb Tutorial.

Another One

2011-02-06T16:45:00.001-06:00

My pics are not great. Its cloudy. We have another cold front moving through with possible snow. Yuck. This is my second card for PTI. For more info see post below.

Supplies

Paper: PTI- vintage cream cardstock, MM- Je t'adore

Ink: Distress- Old Paper, Versafine-Onyx Black

Stamps: PTI-Mega Mixed Messages, Mat stack 3

Other: Provo craft-Swiss Dot embossing, Utee, Vintage twine, PC Tag die, markers

More PTI

2011-02-06T10:27:00.000-06:00

Oh my! There is another contest on Papertrey Ink today. They gave away 9 circle downloads for free! You can enter a project with each image for a chance to win a prize. I made this on an anniversary card because its PTI 4th anniversary. I really hope to do all nine but I have a super bowl party to go to. Looking forward to some home cooked Texas ribs! Yum! I think its strange how different the cards I have been making are from my normal style. I NEVER use white and I used it on my last two cards. I also distress ink everything to death and have not with these. Hopefully I will be back with more cards today. I will be crafting during "the game". I only like the super bowl for the food and commercials!
Supplies
Stamps: PTI-Fillable Frames #4
Ink: Distress Ink -Spiced Marmalade
Cardstock: PTI-Summer Sunshine, plain white
Dies & Folders: Provo Craft Flower die, Cuttlebug- Kassies Brocade
Other: Glitter-Martha Stewart, recycled felt, vintage button, vintage twine, Hobby Lobby ribbon

Papertrey Ink

2011-02-05T11:17:00.000-06:00

Through my new found love of card making I recently found the company Papertrey Ink. I was absolutely blow away at the quality of their products. Its like someone saw my wish list for paper crafts and it magically appeared. All of their items color coordinate, their stamps are amazing, and they have 110 lb cardstock in the perfect colors. They are having a crazy huge giveaway right now so I made this card to enter it. By the way I have not been paid or compensated in ANY way for this post. I'm just super impressed with Papertrey Ink. I was planing on a future post about them and thought this would be as good time as any. The stamp I used is Mat Stack 3. So far its my favorite!

Supplies:

Ink: Versafine-Onyx Black, VersaMark-Watermark (used to wet emboss)

Stamps: Papertrey Ink- Mat stack 3, Papertrey Ink- Mega Mixed Messages

Dies: Papertrey Ink Mat Stack 3, Marvy- small butterfly

Other: Pearls, Vintage button, seam binding, paper doily, Glossy Accents, Provo Craft Embossing Folder- Swiss dots, Stamp N Stuff-White embossing powder

Kraft Love And Puffy Critters

2011-02-03T19:04:00.000-06:00

Tomorrow is going to be snow day 4 here. Never in my life have I seen cold like this. I spent the day taking pics of backyard wildlife and crafting. The birds and squirrel are so cute all puffed up. I have been leaving food and water out for them because I feel sorry for them.

I really love Kraft paper. I came up with some supplies using Kraft paper and added them to my shop. I made this collage using some of the supplies I'm now offering.

I'm going for a more clean, cohesive look for my shop. I changed my logo and I really like it.Maybe I will get a bunch more done while I'm stuck at home..again. Thanks for stopping by!

Birds & Snow

2011-02-01T13:14:00.000-06:00

First of all we are practically snowed in here. The last time it snowed was in 2009. I LOVE it. No school or work! We have played in the snow, had hot chocolate, and I have homemade stew simmering. We take full advantage of this rare weather.
Second have you noticed the new paper craft "trend" everywhere? Its seems vintage, nature, bird, and butterfly themes are popping up like crazy. Well, that has been my crafting style forever! I'm not quite sure what to make of it. On one hand its great to see things I love. On the other hand I now feel I'm competing with big companies and that's depressing. I'm not really sure what direction to go with my business right now. I'm listening to my heart to tell me what to do. I have been going back to some of my older works. I just listed a little bird kit in my shop. It has bird tags and bird sentiments. Its perfect for card making. I made the card below using it. Hope your staying warm!

Today Is The Day

2011-01-28T10:14:00.000-06:00

I used the Random Number generator and the winner is:

Laurie who said...

"Oh my gosh!!!! I just discovered your shop, your blog and your giveaway! Just beautiful. I'm bookmarking you!"

Congrats Laurie! E-mail me your shipping address.

Thank you all SO VERY much for following my blog! Its makes me want to work even harder to make my blog something you can enjoy. Because I wanted to give you ALL something you can save this pretty sheet music cover to use in your art! Have a wonderful weekend!

Something Yummy

2011-01-27T10:21:00.003-06:00

I made this card for The Pink Stampers Challenge "Something Yummy". The strawberry is cut from Indie Art Cricut Cartridge. I have been away from blogland for a while because I hurt my back and my kiddo was sick. I had surgery a few years ago for my back. I NEVER take chances with it anymore. If it starts hurting I stop EVERYTHING until it gets better. Thank goodness everyone is better now. Don't forget about the Valentine give away tomorrow! If your having problems following me just send me an e-mail and I will see what I can do. I CAN'T believe half the country is covered in snow and our temps are in the mid 70's. Crazy!

Big Birthday Wishes

2011-01-21T15:42:00.003-06:00

Today is my brother-in-laws birthday. I made this fun card for him. I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!

Paper: The Paper Studio-A Boy's Universe

Stamps: Studio G i-clear

Embellishments: Spare Parts round brads

Cricut: Robotz

P.s. Don't forget about my Valentine Blog Give Away!

More Than Pretty

2011-01-18T19:09:00.004-06:00

I'm still in destash, organize, and cleaning mode around here. I have added some vintage flea market finds to my shop. Some of the items I really love but honestly have no use for. I'm trying to adopt a simpler life style. Things have to have more purpose than just to be pretty! Its going to be a hard habit to break. Especially when I go antiquing and junking! I have also added a few more Valentine items too.

The Pink Stamper Blog Hop

2011-01-15T11:05:00.004-06:00

Last night was The Pink Stampers 1st blog hop. It was different from any blog hop I have ever seen. You had to sort of solve a puzzle by going from blog to blog to figure out the challenge. It was fun and cute. This is the card I made. I use my Gypsy and Cricut. The heart shape is from Martha Stewart's All Occasions Cake Cartridge. I think this cartridge is a must have if you have a Gypsy. There is just so much you can do with it. I hope you LOVE it. hehe

Live Out Loud

2011-01-15T10:56:00.005-06:00

I will be making two blog post today! Crazy huh? I made two cards last night for challenges. This first one is for the blog CASE Study. It is challenge #22. The card is 5 x 5. Which I have discovered is my favorite size to make cards! The papers I used are from Cosmo Cricket's double deck Material Girl and Garden Variety. They go together beautifully. I used velvet trim and some gorgeous vintage lace. I hope you like it!

Lace Give Away

2011-01-14T11:20:00.003-06:00

I used the random.org number generator to pick a number and the winner is......Karen of Recycled Rita! How funny is that! Karen can recycle my lace! I'm sorry you all couldnt win :(

You can find some of the lace in my shop. Don't forget about the Valentine Give Away! Have a great weekend!

Valentine Give Away

2011-01-13T09:46:00.005-06:00

Yay the Valentine give away is here!! I thought it would be the perfect time to show my LOVE and appreciation for my blog followers. In order to win #1 you must be a follower #2 you need to comment on any post from now until January 27th. New followers are WELCOME! If you do not follow me and want too, the FOLLOW button is at the top left side of my blog. If you are shy don't worry about leaving a witty comment or anything. Just a simple hi is good enough!Winner will be announced Friday January 28th. Good luck and thanks so much for following me!

Card Sketch

2011-01-12T10:48:00.003-06:00

I just wanted to tell you I will post about my Valentine Give away tomorrow. And I will pick winner from this post Friday. All your suggestions on my excess of lace and trim has been great. I have listed some themed packs and grab bags in my shop. I made the card above for a challenge on the blog Card Patterns. Its a sketch challenge. Sketch challenges are perfect for me because I just need a place to start with when making cards. After I have a sketch in mind the sky's the limit! See you tomorrow!

Need Help!

2011-01-09T12:40:00.006-06:00

My Valentine give away is coming soon! I just keep adding more and more to it! Ok so this is what I need help with: ribbon and lace. I have blogged about my lace obsession before here, here, here, and here. I have sold it on tags, in kits, in boxes, and bags. I am doing a deep clean and organization on my studio. My studio has looked clean and organized but in drawers and boxes chaos reined. Right now I am organizing trim. I'm taking it off spools and putting into individual baggies. Then I'm going store it by color. More on that later. The thing is after seeing all my trim in one place I KNOW I could never use it all. I have spent two FULL days sorting it and I'm still not done. I have boxes and boxes of tangled lace I need to sell. So I'm asking you dear friends. What is the best way to sell ribbon and lace? Should I shove it all in a box and say here you go? Or should I take the time to sort it by color etc and wind it onto cards? Or maybe even do this again? I'm willing to mark it cheap to sell it fast! Heck I will even give some away! If you comment on this post by Friday January 14Th I will put you in a drawing to win a big bag of lace. Tell me all your great ideas!

He Gave Me a Rose

2011-01-06T09:50:00.004-06:00

I love this card so much I thought I would put together a few kits so you can make one too. I listed the kits in my shop. I took craft card stock size 10 x 6 1/2 and scored it at 5 inches. I cut the wallpaper at 6 x 4 1/2 inches. Then taped the crinkle ribbon to the back. Next I adhered the doily sliding it under the ribbon. I used foam dots to add the rose card. I added gems, a bow, and two buttons. I used Walnut stain distress ink and a blending tool to give everything an aged look. I think its romantic and very shabby chic.

Hearts

2011-01-05T19:11:00.006-06:00

I'm hoping to grow a lot this year. I'm listening to my heart and like I have said in the past I REALLY want to design for companies. So while I have been dreaming of my dream job I have been making cards every night for practice and fun. I listed this one in my SHOP. I don't think I'm going to keep my shop as full as I have in the past. I really love creating new things everyday at my own pace and not feeling rushed or pressured. I also have added some other Valentines day goodies to my shop and I have been gathering things for a Valentines giveaway to show appreciation to all the followers of my blog! Details of that soon.

Small Treasures Bring Joy

2011-01-04T12:33:00.005-06:00

Well I finally downloaded all the pictures from Christmas off my camera. Here are just some of the delightful goodies I received from Christine in our Vintage Stocking Swap. I really LOVED everything. It was all so me! I loved the little bobbles she sent me so much I'm keeping them on my little tree all winter! You should go to her blog to see much better pictures of all the treasures she sent me.

Also here is a picture of the sweet doll and ornament Cerri sent me. It was such a thoughtful thing she did. Isn't the doll enchanting?

I have certainly been blessed this holiday season! Thank you again you talented ladies!

I Love You A Ton

2011-01-02T16:49:00.010-06:00

Hi! I hope you are having a fabluous start to 2011.
Robyn at The Pink Stamper is looking for a design team member for 2011. I would really LOVE to be on her team. Designing is my goal this year so wouldn’t The Pink Stamper design team be a great place to start? She is picking a team member by this challenge: make something with pink, green, and brown. I’m all about Valentine’s day right now so I made a Valentines card. I took my inspiration from the polka dot glitter paper. This is only the second gatefold card I have made. Its so much easier than you think! This is what you need:

Recipe

Polka Dot paper from Out & About Stack by My Minds Eye
VersaFine Vintage Sepia ink
Scribbles 3D paint
Spare-Parts round brads
Distress Ink-Worn Lipstick
Cardstock
Studio G “I love you a ton!” Stamp
Paisley Cricut Cartridge Page 28
Martha Stewarts Scoring board
Bone folder
Foam dots
Clear embossing powder
Heating Tool
Stick on gems

Here are some quick instructions:

I followed the measurements on my Martha Stewart scoreboard. Which I LOVE by the way. Start with a 9 x 6 ¼ card stock. Score at 2 ¼ & 6 ¾. This will give you an A6 sized gatefold card. The first layer of brown card stock is 1 7/8 x 5 ¾ inches. Cut two. The second polka dot paper is 1 5/8 x 5 5/8. Also cut two. I cut the elephant out using my gypsy but you could use just your cricut at 3.5 inches. I wanted to show you a picture of my Cricut mat. This is what I adore about the Gypsy, all your cuts can be made on one mat with scraps of paper. I used foam dots to pop up the elephant and added red cheeks using Scribbler paint, added a gem, eyelashes, and distress ink. I used the VersaFine ink to stamp the sentiment then embossed it using clear embossing powder. I used foam dots and brads on the sentiment layer. To finish you adhere the matted elephant to just HALF the card. The you adhere the matted sentiment to just the other HALF. See! Besides figuring out all the measurements its easy and fun! And I figured out the measurements for you so you don’t have an excuse not to try this fun card! Wish me luck for making the design team!
P.s. I will be back with more Vintage Stocking Swap photos soon. They will make you swoon! I sure did.

Happy Holidays

2010-12-24T09:36:00.001-06:00

Wishing you and yours a wonderful holiday filled with love and blessings.
Brandy

Gifts Under The Tree

2010-12-22T13:23:00.005-06:00

Today Christmas break starts! I finished wrapping gifts in the nick of time. I thought I would share my simple wrap ideas. I used light craft paper. The snowflakes on the paper were wet embossed using various snowflake stamps, embossing power, and a heating tool. I did this after wrapping and it would be much easier and less messy to do before. Then I tied on some recycled ribbon and added a tag that I had hot glued a cupcake tree pick to.

The other gift wrap was done using craft paper again. I cut white cardstock into strips and embossed it using my Cuttlebug and a snowflake folder. The polar bear tag is from an antique print I scanned and printed. I used white, puffy fabric paint and added to the edge. Once its dry you can use a heating gun and heat it. It puffs up to look like snow. I punched a snowflake from Martha Stewarts large snowflake punch and added a gem. Some rustic twine finishes it off.

So if your in a time crunch, just grab some items from your craft supply and make your own gift wrap!

It Must Be Christmas

2010-12-20T12:59:00.005-06:00

It must be Christmas and I must have been a very good girl to get all this! This is the magical goodness that I got from my sweet Vintage Stocking swap partner Christine. She sent everything you see besides the tinsel trees. I had stacked some suitcases and placed the tinsel trees on top with a vintage doily and burlap. I knew the corner needed more, especially since the wall was blank. But, I just have not had time to make anything. Now I don't have too! Its like a fairy decorated for me. Even better that I could have done myself! I love it so much that I'm waiting till Christmas to see whats in the stocking and open the gifts. I will share with you when I do open them! Can you believe the stocking?! I will cherish it forever. What a lucky girl I am! You must go see Christine's blog. Its so lovely. She is a fabulous photographer. And an amazing swap partner!

Well, I did another The Pink Stamper Challenge. This one was to make A Christmas or winter themed card or scrapbook page. I made this card using the Cricut cartridege: Celebrate with a Flourish. I cut the word out then used Ultra Thick Embossing Enamel to coat it. I used a Cuttlebug embossing folder for the green. The ledger paper is from The Girl's Paperie- Tinsel & Twig. I bought the Cardinal sticker at Michaels. I'm not sure what brand it is. I love how glossy and shiny the letters are. In the future I will do a tutoral on how to it.

A Challenge

2010-12-15T06:05:00.000-06:00

I have seen so many "create this" challenges and never have the time to submit anything to them. Well in the coming year I'm going to make it a priority. It just seems so fun and well....challenging. Plus I get to share with you how I made something. I though I would start with this challenge at The Pink Stamper. It was a color challenge. Use two colors of pink, two of blue, and black. Since aqua and pink are my fav color combo I just had to try it. Here is what I used to make it:

Black cardstock cut at 6x 12 then folded in half

2 Colors of aqua cardstock

Pink cardstock

Stickles

Martha Stewart Holly punch

Gem stones

Martha Stewart clear glitter

Cuttlebug Embossing folders

Cricut Cartridge Give A Hoot

I will have more details about what I use in future projects.I will make sure to have the brand and name of everything I use. I even hope to start making video tutorials for you.

A Book Tree

2010-12-14T08:31:00.007-06:00

Photo From Jeanne

How cool is this tree Jeanne made?! You can learn how to make it too over at the Joli Paquet blog.

I have a few Merry & Bright Printers Tray Kits left. They are on sale today ONLY!

Have a great day!!

Shop Sale

2010-12-13T10:26:00.004-06:00

My monkey is doing much better. Thank you all for asking! I'm closing my shop this week probably until January. I want time to make homemade gifts. I'm also already working on Valentines day goodies. And I will be cleaning out my studio and adding a lot of my "overflow" supplies in my shop. Right now I have a 3 day sale on select items. It ends Wednesday. I will still be blogging though! I will show you my handmade gifts, holiday decor, and gift wrap! The pictures are gift wrapping I did a few years ago. They where a big hit. I hear some of you have lots of snow!! I'm envious! I doubt we will see any here this year. We are in a drought. Pooy!

Glittery Pretties and A Sick Little Monkey

2010-12-08T15:25:00.005-06:00

Photo Courtesy of Cerri
There is a easy and fun tutorial over at Joli Paquet by Cerri you need to go see! So cute!
My little monkey has been sick. His asthma flared up for the first time in a few years and it took a few days and the doctor trying different medicines to get his breathing back to normal. There is nothing more stressful or scary than having your child tell you he can't breath! But, after lots of tlc he is doing great. He told me " Mom thanks for EVERYTHING." so sweet! At night I couldn't sleep because I went to check on him like every five minutes to make sure he was breathing. I'm just a LITTLE over protective. I took the time to make some yummy pink goodness. I'm offering this set in my shop. I think its very shabby chic! If it doesn't sell I'm perfectly fine with that. I think it would look marvelous in my studio.

Kits & Collages

2010-12-02T08:51:00.007-06:00

My Merry & Bright Printers Tray Kit is now available. Quantities are very limited so if you want one be fast! I added these two collages, snowflake ornaments, and little woodland scene to my shop last night. The collages have already sold. I think for the rest of the season I will try to make more one of a kind holiday goodies to sell. No pressure, just fun creating. Have a blessed day!

Winter Woodland Cupcake Kit

2010-12-01T14:05:00.002-06:00

I have added a few Winter Woodland Cupcake Kits to my shop. I changed it up a little since last year. Its one of my very favorite Holiday decorations. You can find previews of all the girls Joli Pauqet kits here. They go on sale in all our shops tomorrow.

Merry & Bright Printers Tray Kit

2010-11-30T07:39:00.010-06:00

Merry & Bright- Printers Tray Kit
This is my Joli Paquet Holiday kit! You will get everything you need except adhesives and paint or stain. The tray is 16 inches by 12 inches and 1 ¼ inches wide. I designed the tray making each compartment to the size I wanted then my wonderful husband built it! A 9 inch tall bottle brush tree on a wood block is included in the kit. The wood tray comes bare so you can paint or stain it any color you want. Each one has the vintagy ceramic knob on top. Two kinds of glitter come with it. The vintage mica glitter and ultra fine snow glitter. The sheet music is from my very favorite stash. Its from 1888 and is absolutely gorgeous! You will be getting a whole page! I only have a few kits and they go on sale Thursday in my ETSY shop. Be sure to go over to Joli Paquet to see the other kits!

The Tree Is Up

2010-11-28T19:54:00.004-06:00

We had a lovely Thanksgiving! I hope you did too. My little guy and I went to see Harry Potter. LOVED it! I did NOT do any shopping. It was such a relief to enjoy family instead of fight the Black Friday crowds. I'm going to be making a lot of homemade gifts this year. I have most of my Christmas decor up. I have added Holiday items to my shop with a few more to come. Look for sneak peeks of my Joli Paquet kit soon! Have a great cyber Monday!

The Glitter is Out

2010-11-18T08:03:00.004-06:00

Photo and Tree by CINDY

There is an absolutely adorable tutorial over at Joli Paquet. Cindy made this cute tree. Be sure to go over to the Joli Pauet blog and say hi!

I have also been working on new tags. You can find them in my shop. I will be adding more and more Holiday things. My holiday gift wrappings this year are inspired by a few of my favorite things: craft paper, soft vintage lace, and pine cones! I think my new tags coordinate perfectly. I have more tags and labels to come!

New Camera

2010-11-13T15:34:00.003-06:00

My old camera was giving me serious grief. It took tons of adjusting, extra lighting, and then I had to photoshop the heck out of any pics I was taking.If something was moving, forget about it! After receiving many e-mails and feedback saying how much the item they purchased from my shop was so much better than the picture, I broke down and bought a new one. I got a Kodak Z981 and a tripod. I am so happy! This is going to save me soooo much time. These pictures were straight out of the camera. Its seriously ridiculous how much easier this makes work for me. Why didn't I do it sooner! Many new pictures to follow!

Mercury Glass Ornament

2010-11-11T05:40:00.000-06:00

Supplies:
Clear glass ornament
Black spray paint
Hot glue gun
Assorted ribbons and embellishments
Self adhesive gems
Adirondack Alcohol Ink Mixatives

Adirondack Alcohol Ink Applicator

Adirondack Alcohol Blending solution

Adirondack Alcohol Inks (dark colors are best)

It’s only seven weeks until Christmas! Can you believe it? I really love aged and worn mercury glass. I like to scatter it throughout my home for the holidays. Unfortunately the real stuff in expensive and hard to find. So I found a way to make my own. You could use this technique for any glass surface: candle holders, frames, vases, and plates. I think it would make a great gift too.
1. Take off top of ornament. Using black spray paint gently make several short sprays into ornament.(best to do outside) Twist, turn, and shake ornament to move paint around in swirl patterns before it dries. You do not have to cover the whole inside. Irregular splotches are good. Let dry. This does not take long.

2. Stick a pencil, paint brush, or other object into ornament to have something to hold onto. Drop small dots of the Alcohol ink onto felt pad on ink applicator. Just use a random pattern using two darker colors of alcohol ink. Add a small amount of Alcohol ink blender.

3.Dab applicator onto ornament until you get the coverage you want. Let dry.

4. Use a new piece of felt and repeat step 2 with silver or gold alcohol ink mixative. Do not add as much alcohol blender. Dab onto ornament leaving spots blank for the black to show through. Make sure you dab NOT twist. Also be sure not to touch it with bare hands or it will leave a fingerprint. Let dry. Add more if necessary.

5. Add ribbon to the topper using hot glue. Apply self adhesive gem stones on each side. Tie some ribbon through the hanger. Embellish with tiny ornaments or buttons.

Don’t forget to send an email to cerri @ thelittlepinkstudio.com by Sunday the 14th if you want to be in the stocking swap! And if you try out our tutorials we would love to see what you made. You can post a picture in our Flickr Group.

Holidays With Joli Paquet

2010-11-10T12:47:00.005-06:00

Its time for the Holiday Joli Paquet again! I'm so excited. We have all been working hard to bring you great tutorials and sweet kits for this year. We are also doing a Vintage Stocking Swap. Want to know how to join? Send an email to cerri @ thelittlepinkstudio.com by Sunday the 14th answering some questions. More info here. Tomorrow I will be doing a tutorial on how to make faux Mercury glass ornaments so be sure to come back! You won't believe how easy it is.

Joli Paquet Tutorial

2010-11-01T10:08:00.003-05:00

Photo courtesy Cindy
Time to think of Thanksgiving! Here is a lovely place stetting idea using scrapbook supplies by Cindy!

Kits

2010-10-13T15:50:00.002-05:00

Halloween Kits go on sale in my Etsy shop first thing tomorrow. They are ready to ship. Don't forget to go check out the other Joli Paquet kits!

Joli Paquet Kits

2010-10-12T07:22:00.007-05:00

COTTAGE BOO SIGN

SPOOKY MINI WREATH

Here is the preview for my Joli Pauqet kits. I hope you like them. They will be in my SHOP this Thursday. I have a limited quantity on the wreath. Once its gone its gone. Be sure to go see the other gals kits over at Joli Paquet! They are all spooktacular!

It's Getting Spooky Around Here

2010-10-08T08:43:00.007-05:00

First here is my promised sneak peeks of my Joli Paquet kits. Come back Tuesday for the reveal! They go on sale October 14th.

I have revamped my Haunted Cupcake Cottage Kit from last year. You can pre-order it and it will ship October 16th. If you purchase my new Joli Halloween kits on the 14th I will ship them all together. I don't have many of them so snatch them up while you can!

Jeanne has made a tutorial for this very cool critter over at Joli Paquet. Be sure to go check it out!
Photo courtesy of Jeanne Szewczyk

I was honored to do an interview with Factory Direct Crafts. It was lots of fun! Someone also told me about the blog Martha Moments. They called me the Halloween Priestess Extraordinaire. So funny! Both are great websites you should go see.

I Love Pumpkins

2010-10-06T19:27:00.007-05:00

I LOVE LOVE LOVE pumpkins! And apparently so do chickens! Come back Friday for a sneak peek at my Joli Pauqet Halloween kits.

A Little Halloween Curiosity

2010-10-05T08:44:00.004-05:00

Joli Paquet is now back! I am up first for my tutorial. Its a spooky Plexiglas sign! Please grab a Joli Paquet button for your blog and pass on the news to everyone! We really want to spread the word about our crafty fun site. We have lots more frightening tutorials and kits to come! So check back often.

Family

2010-10-02T11:01:00.005-05:00

Hi Y'all! I know its been forever. The truth is two weeks ago my 27 year old cousin died. Its been quite a shock and has shook up my family pretty badly. All I have wanted to do is spend time with my family and do the things we love. We have been baking, decorating for Fall, going to my brothers football games, watching my sister cheer, and spending lots of time on the phone with each other. Those are the things that matter the most. I am blessed to have two little brothers and two little sisters.This hard time has made me what to be closer to them.The above pic is of my siblings and me. Its a few years old. My youngest brother is way taller than me now! The next pic is my big boy Keegan when we went to pick out pumpkins.Pumpkins are one of my very favorite parts of fall! Speaking of Fall. Autumn Joli Paquet is just around the corner. Are you excited? I am! Hug the ones you love today!!!