The Last Minute Crafter

Snow Fall

2012-01-24T21:38:00.000-05:00

I saw the sweetest inspiration challenge from Scrapbooker's Paradise Ponderings

and it reminded me of the Whimsie Doodle snowman image, so of course I had to play along!

A bit of sparkle to pull in the other colors from the inspiration photo. I was originally going to stamp the snow in the other colors, but (make sure you are sitting down) I am OUT of WHITE paper!!! Yikes!!! I guess I need to go shopping.

Thanks for stopping by!

Smiles,

Julie

Details: Image - Snowman (Whimsie Doodles), CS - PTI, copics, Ink - PTI, and rhinestones from my stash.

Raise the Bar and Ring in the New Year

2012-01-20T05:00:00.002-05:00

I was asked to be a guest designer for the Raise the Bar challenge blog this week! Thanks ladies!!! The challenge this week is to create something crafty based on the theme "Ring in the New Year". Well, I am "ringing" in the new year with circles (rings) on a card to welcome a new baby.

(Based on sketch #251 from CPS)

Eeks, I just love this set from The Craft's Meow designed by Jenny Suchins - "Owl Be Thinking of You".

Now it is your turn to create a project with "rings" and link it up to the Raise the Bar Challenge blog. Hop on over to the blog to check out all the details and get more inspiration from the design team.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Smiles,

Julie

Details - Stamps - (Owl Be Thinking of You) TCM, PP - October Afternoon - CS - PTI, Copics, Button - PTI, Ink - Momento and Aciennt Page, and embroidery floss - DMC.

Bee Mine!

2012-01-17T05:00:00.002-05:00

Pink
Glitter
Sweetness
Valentines
Today I am sharing another trio of cards, this time Valentines for my sons to hand out to the girls in their preschool classrooms.
After seeing a card on The Twinery blog with twine hearts I had to try making one of my own.

Plus, my twine hearts are perfect for the Outlawz CAS twine challenge.

I even had an assistant help make these. He liked squeezing Stickles onto the wings.

I then tried a trail of hearts which is a less sticky option.

A huge shoutout to Alyssa! I received an unexpected package in the mail last month filled with wonderful stamping goodies, including the Paper Smooches set I used above. Talk about sweetness!!! Thank you!!!

Smiles,
Julie
Details: Stamps - image (Giddy Bugs) Paper Smooches, sentiment - (Harold's Alphabet) Lawn Fawn, Ink - SU and Momento, CS - PTI, cards - SU (I have had these in my stash for years!), Twine - The Twinery and Copics.

A Trio of Challenges

2012-01-15T23:58:00.001-05:00

Whimsie Doodles is sponsoring the latest Ribbon Carousel Challenge which is an inspiration photo. Well, once I saw the cupcake I immediately thought of the new pup images from the Whimsie Doodle January release. They are adorable and I have wanted to color one up. What better time then the present, especially because the challenge ends Monday at midnight! Check out the challenge blog for all the details.

Now it is time to meet Meet "I Tried"...

I also drew inspiration from the following:
Wee Memories Challenge #83 - the final challenge is a sketch - how could I resist playing along?!!!

Playing in Paradise Tic, Tac, Toe Challenge - I went with a button, ribbon and text.

Smiles, Julie
Details: Image - (I Tried), PP - Basic Grey, CS - PTI, Copics, hole puncher, Twill - PTI, Button - Stash.

Mini Card Tags

2012-01-12T22:34:00.000-05:00

Challenge 82 from Wee Memories is to create mini cards - how fun! I pulled out some of my favorite Your Next Stamp sets and got to work paper piecing and coloring...

I decided to turn my mini card - just 3.5" x 3.5", into a tag by adding hole punches at the fold and some ribbon. Now I have a tag with extra room to write!
Well, once I find something I like, I tend to create more than just one..

I already have a dozen mini card tags complete and a few more to finish up. So fun! I know quite a few people who only give gifts in gift bags, so a set of these tags may turn in to a great gift to have on hand - I will have to package them up in a gift bag!

Smiles,
Julie
Details: Stamps - YNS, PP - Cosmo Cricket, CS - PTI, Embroidery Floss - DMC, Corner rounder punch, hole punch and copics.

"New" Whimsie Doodles' Challenge

2012-01-10T06:06:00.000-05:00

It is time for a NEW Whimsie Doodles monthly challenge. For January the monthly challenge really is a "new" challenge...create a project for a "new" celebration.

A new baby, new home, or how about the Chinese New Year?

New Year Dragon

The lanterns are the same one the dragon is holding. I printed out the lantern section only several times and then fussy cut each out.

Have fun creating something "new"!!!

Smiles,
Julie
Details: Image - (New Year Dragon) Whimsie Doodles, CS PTI, Floss - DMC, Copica and copic spica.

Flashback Friday

2012-01-07T21:41:00.000-05:00

The challenge for Flashback Friday 19.0 is to repost your first clean and simple card. Sometimes when I read the challenge I immediately remember my "first". This was not one of those times. I am a huge fan of CAS and frequently turn to it, but I have not always been that way.

Check out the original post here.

Be sure to play along. It is soooo easy and I promise you, even fun (most of the time!) to look back on your first posts!

Smiles,
Julie

Whimsie Doodles' January Release

2012-01-05T05:00:00.008-05:00

It's January release time at Whimsie Doodles! The new images being released are great for Birthdays, the New Year, winter, and Valentine's Day. If you read my post yesterday than you probably guessed that I created a Valentine's Day card to share with you today.

Here is Cupid's Arrow...

Lots of paper piecing, which has to be one of my favorite techniques ever! The hearts across the bottom are shell buttons that I bought years ago - so happy to finally use them. I am hoping to buy less and use more this year.

My card is for the Pink Elephant Anything Goes Challenge #129 (TPE129) and Paper Sundaes' Something Old and Something New Challenge - the old are those buttons and the new is the lace (I specifically went shopping to buy lace to finish off this card!).

Now be sure to check out the rest of the DT {see the sidebar} and the Whimsie Doodle's blog, right before you go shopping!

Smiles,

Julie
Details: Image - Cupid's Arrow Whimsie Doodles, CS - PTI, PP - MME, Lace - Offray, Copics and buttons from my stash.

Just a Peek

2012-01-04T05:00:00.003-05:00

The January release from Whimsie Doodles is cute, cute, cute!!! I know, I write "cute" every month, but it's the truth!

Can you guess what type of image is part of the January Whimsie Doodles' release...

There is lots of pink on the way...it can only mean one thing (and no, I am not pregnant, although my dd tells us she would love a sister!).

Stop back tomorrow for a full look at the card I am sharing for the release.

Smiles, Julie

Happy New Year

2012-01-02T17:22:00.001-05:00

I am starting off the new year by sharing the Christmas card that I sent out last year.

A quick and simple card that I cased from Dawn McVey.
I send out lots of cards, so the easier the better.

I almost did not do a Christmas card, because I could not get a pic of the kids. When my Mom heard her reaction was "no Christmas card???!!!". So she and my sister said they would get a pic. Well, with 3, there is always one who does not want to participate. I am calling this the $5 card because my sister had to bribe someone to smile!

Happy New Year!!!

Smiles,

Julie

Top 12 of 2011

2011-12-29T09:00:00.001-05:00

Karin "With an i for Paper" is hosting a year in review.

Check out all the details HERE to play along!!!

It is always fun to look back on what I created. Sometimes I cringe and other times smile...here are my faves from the year in no particular order...

#1 - Simple Stories paper and a Whimsie Doodle image

#2 - Whismie Doodles image

#3 - Whimsie Doodles image and My Time Template

#4 - Whimsie Doodles image and SRM stickers

#5 - Verve Stamps and a bloom inspired by Yvonne Yams' guest blogger Erum Tasneem

#6 - Stamp Fairy Image

#7 - Your Next Stamp

#8 - Amber Ink images (I ended up making 3 of these for all the little ones turning 1 in my extended family!!!)

#9 - Your Next Stamp

#10 - Your Next Stamp

#11 - Verve stamps

#12 - Your Next Stamp

What a year!!! Thanks for stopping by! Here is hoping 2012 is filled with lots of crafty inspiration and fun challenges.
Smiles,
Julie

What a Year!

2011-12-28T09:34:00.001-05:00

Karin Martin is hosting "A Year in Review" blog hop. Spread the word and then be sure to join in the fun starting tomorrow! Check out all the details HERE!!! Let's get everyone to link up their top 12 cards of the year.
Smiles,
Julie

Christmas Bauble

2011-12-22T17:00:00.002-05:00

It has been too long since I played along with Card Patterns. Each week I put together a "wish list" and then WISH I could finish every challenge on it! This week I actually found time and put together something on the CAS side using Whimsie Doodles' Reindeer Bauble.

(Card Patterns sketch #146)

All my cards are now in the mail, including this one - phew, I am definitely avoiding the last minute card rush next year.

Smiles,

Julie

Details: Image - (Reindeer Bauble) Whimsie Doodles, Ink - SU, CS - PTI, PP - DCWV, Button - PTI, copics and twine.

December SFYTT

2011-12-20T05:45:00.000-05:00

It is beginning to look alot like Christmas. There is no snow on the ground, but still lots of Christmas to be found! I am slowly getting thru my Christmas card list and hope to get the majority in the mail today. Yikes, I think this may just be the latest I have ever sent out cards! Here is one more Christmas card using the December SFYTT.

How about a little Verve for the final sketch of 2011...

Whew...I am excited that I played along all year and I am looking forward to playing along in 2012!
Here are links to my cards for each month in 2011:
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November

Smiles,
Julie

Whimsie Doodles Sketch Challenge

2011-12-10T10:55:00.000-05:00

It is time for the Whimsie Doodles monthly challenge, this time it is a sketch inspiration (yay!).

What's up for grabs if you play along? One random winner will win an image of their choice and one random winner amongst the top 3 design team selected entries will be a guest designer for the month of February! How fun is that???!!! Check out the Whimsie Doodles blog for all the details and to link up your own creation.

Now on to my creation, which is a Christmas card using Treat for Puppy (1 more card to cross of the to do list!). Who can resist Santa Claus?

Have a wonderful weekend!
Smiles,
Julie
Details: Image - (Treat for Puppy) Whimsie Doodles, Sentiment - Verve, PP - Basic Grey, CT PTI, Floss - Martha Stewart, Embossing - Cuttlebug, copics, and glossy accents.

Christmas Decor

2011-12-07T05:24:00.000-05:00

Here is a gift idea for the person on your list who loves snowmen...

Now you may recognize this little guy from a card I made a couple weeks ago. I really liked him combined with the Simple Stories paper, so I decided to make him into something more permanent than a card. This is a framed piece that I plan on giving as a gift. No worries though, I bought 2 frames and have another snowman ready to go - I think I need one of these for myself too :>)

See the little birds - this is why I LOVE digis! I took the bird the snowman is holding and resized him (or her) smaller, plus flipped some.

Here are the challenges my project is for:
It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...That's the Raise the Bar challenge #86. Check out the post - they are in search of DT members!
Paper Sundaes Challenge #98 - Sundae Bar - my toppings for this week are red and stitching.
Wee Memories Challenge 78 - Free For All

Thanks for stopping by!!!
Smiles,
Julie

Details: Image - ('Tis the Season) Whimsie Doodles, Sentiment and Snowflakes - (Christmas in the Air) Verve, PP - (25 Days of Christmas) Simple Stories, CS - PTI, Ink - Momento and Tim Holtz, copics, Glossy Accents and a circle punch - SU.

Amber Ink Blog Hop Winner!

2011-12-07T05:00:00.000-05:00

It is time to announce the winner of the Amber Ink 2nd Annual Blog Hop. Each stop along the hop was giving away the image used by the designer! My card used "Yoga Elf" and the winner is...
#1 !!!!!

Congrats to Michelle!!! Please send me your e-mail addy so that Yoga Elf can move into your house! He has been a little mischevious so don't trust his zen like pose!!!
Plus, Michelle is now entered in the grand prize drawing...she may just win her own Elf on the Shelf prize package! Be sure to check out the Amber Ink blog to see if you are a winner!

Smiles,
Julie

2nd Annual Amber Ink Holiday Blog Hop

2011-12-05T10:00:00.043-05:00

*** Second post for today, scroll on down for the Whimsie Doodles December release ***

Welcome to our second annual

Amber Ink Holiday blog hop!

This year our alumni are tapping into their inner elves for some fun and frolic.

We've made our list but you'll probably want to check it twice.
Or check it thrice. We just don't know who'll be naughty or nice.

There are 23 commenting spots to be precise
And 23 prizes to help entice.

So see those badges down below?
Roll the dice. Let elf magic flow…

Hop Monday thru Tuesday and the gift winners will be drawn on Wednesday. One Grand Prize winner will receive an Elf of the Shelf gift set, so be sure to visit every single elfin spot. The final list will be sent to Santa, so remember… the only person you are really competing with is your elf.

There is an elf that lives in my own house during the holiday season and he reports back to Santa each night (we know, we saw Santa yesterday and he confirmed it! Plus, Santa knew a lot about what was going on in our house!). My children love getting out of bed in the morning (shockingly so) to find the new location our elf is sitting.

This little guy is for my DD so that she will have an elf in her room each day. She could also take the tag off and turn it into a bookmark.

Thanks for coming. Now hop on to Jenn's blog!!!
Head over to the Amber Ink blog if you get lost along the way or in case you need to take a break for hot chocolate and sugar cookies!

Smiles,
Julie

Whimsie Doodles December Release

2011-12-05T03:00:00.054-05:00

It's time for the December Whimsie Doodle release! IF you are not yet in the holiday spirit then I promise you that all the images in this release will get you singing Christmas carols!

First up is Santa and his reindeer on a wild ride with "Santa Express".

More of the Simple Stories paper that I love using with the Whimsie images and lots of coloring!

Next is a CAS card with one of the many snowmen included in the new release, this one is appropriately named "Snowman".

I had so much fun coloring up these images. I should write that DD and I had fun. She did good with the copics and I figured worse case scenario I would have to buy new nibs. Stay tuned for some of her creations as she still needs to turn each into cards.

There are so many great images in this release! Now be sure to check out the rest of the DT {see the sidebar} and the Whimsie Doodle's blog, right before you go shopping!

Smiles,

Julie

A Peek at Whimsie Doodles' December Release

2011-12-04T03:00:00.026-05:00

Do you see what I see?

There may just be a few Christmas carols playing in my head!
And, this may be caused by the Whimsie Doodles' December release!

The December release for Whimsie Doodles is OVER THE TOP cute!!! Stop back tomorrow for a full look at the cards I am sharing for the release.

Smiles, Julie

Flashback Friday 18.0

2011-12-02T17:00:00.000-05:00

It's time for a new Flashback Friday Challenge.

This time around, the challenge is to repost your first project with an owl on it.

I am flashing back to 2009 where I found my first "owl" card...

Weird photo angle, but I still love that little owl from Little Paper Shop! Gees, this also makes me wonder when was the last time I pulled out my watercolor pencils? That is what I like about flashing back. It is a chance to revisit and improve upon! Plus, it is sooooo easy to play along!

Smiles,

Julie

November SFYTT and a Little More Math

2011-11-26T07:21:00.003-05:00

Christmas math continues...

1 November's SFYTT

+ 1 SCS Free For All Black Friday Challenge

+ 1 Outlawz Anything Goes Twisted Thursday Challenge

+ 1 Snowman from the Whimsie Doodles 'Tis the Season set

= 1 Country Christmas Card (yes, my crafting math needs some work)

I am seriously swooning over this Simple Stories paper - 25 Days of Christmas :>).

Combine it with the snowman and I just can't get enough!!!

P.S. You can get your own 'Tis the Season set right now for 50% off!!!

Everything digital at Whimsie Doodles is 50% off (with a miniumn purchase of $10.00) this weekend! The sale ends at midnight (Eastern time) on Sunday, the 27th. You MUST use the code friday50sale to get the discount.

Happy Shopping (and crafting)!

Smiles,

Julie

Details: Image - ('Tis the Season) Whimsie Doodles, Sentiments and Snowflakes - Verve, PP - (25 Days of Christmas) Simple Stories, CS - PTI, Ink - Momento and Tim Holtz, copics, Glossy Accents and a circle punch - SU (for the buttons - I have a button die somewhere, but in a quick pinch a punch with drawn on button holes works!).

Christmas Math

2011-11-24T10:11:00.000-05:00

1 Cas-ual Fridays sketch from challenge 29 from the fabulous Karen Baker

+ 1 Christmas Stampin' All Year Long inspiration challenge

= 1 Christmas Card for the Outlawz Paper a la Mode holiday card challenge

It also = 1 Christmas Card off my list!!!

Oh how I wish I had been playing along all year with CSAYL!!! I don't know about you, but I have a long list!

Smiles,
Julie
Details: Stamps - (Holiday Tree) PTI, Embossing Folder - (Snowflakes) Sizzix, CS - PTI, Ink - SU, and silver baubles - rhinestones that I flipped upside down.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T10:08:00.002-05:00

The sentiment on this card just about sums it up!!!

Funny story about this card...I color wherever and whenever I can. This image was colored while watching my son in the bathtub. I inadvertently dropped the colored image in the tub and it survived!!! Who knew copics were so good, no running or smudging whatsoever.

Thanks for stopping by and have a wonderful Thanksgiving!
Smiles,
Julie
Details: Image - (Nuts About You) Whimsie Doodles, PP - Basic Grey, CS - PTI, Button - PTI, and copics.

Tag You're It!

2011-11-17T05:00:00.001-05:00

It is time for another Whimsie Doodles challenge. This time around the challenge is to create a tag - either on it's own or as part of a card, etc. Be sure to link up your own creation to the post found HERE on the Whimsie Doodles blog by November for your chance to win a Whimsie Doodle image. Plus, there is now a second prize...a chance to be our next guest designer! Check out the blog for all the details.
Glitter is usually not found on many of my creations. Christmas creations however are an exception. Sparkle, shine and the holidays go together. Personally, I love the homespun look, but I have 3 children and the sparkle makes everything seem more festive.
Today's creations have sparkle. I pulled out some star dust Stickles and went a little wild (for me), even adding sparkle to twine and embroidery floss.

I started with a the penguin from 'Tis the Season Tags and matted him on an embossed panel placed on a bag created with the Perfect Presentation template Bag it Up.

Now for what is in the bag...

Tags!!!

I printed out every tag in the Christmas Gift Tags set on both white and red paper then fussy cut, colored and glittered away!

The Christmas countdown has started for me!!! How about you???

Thanks for stopping by!!!

Smiles,

Julie

New Whimsie Doodles Facebook Page

2011-11-07T05:35:00.002-05:00

Whimsie Doodles has set up a new Facebook page!

Be sure to stop by and "Like" us {here}.

Besides the latest Whimsie Doodles news and happenings, there are freebies to be found!
Now isn't this a great way to start your week?!!!

Smiles, Julie

Flashback Friday 17.0

2011-11-06T13:19:00.001-05:00

It is Flashback Friday time, 17.0 to be exact!!! The latest challenge is to repost our first banner. Now when I saw the challenge I smiled and laughed because I knew immediately what my first banner was. Does anyone remember this card? Maybe Amy Tsuruta does..

Ironically enough, this was an on-line Birthday card I made to celebrate Amy's Birthday last year. I tried to incorporate all the styles and techniques that Amy was doing at the time, including sewing, patterened paper, paper piecing and a BANNER! Check out all the details on my original post HERE.

Be sure to link up a repost of your first banner to Flashback Friday 17.0. Today would be the perfect time to link up because if you do it by the end of today Amy is giving away extra prizes. Remember, you just need to repost, not create something new. Fun and easy!!!
I am sooooo happy that I came across Amy's post. I am slowly catching up on all the craftiness that I missed this past week. We got power back at my house on Friday - 6 days without power is noooooo fun at all!
Smiles,
Julie

Whimsie Christmas

2011-11-05T03:00:00.014-04:00

Whimsie Doodles' new release is full of cute Christmas images and some fairies too!

Today I am sharing a card using "Peeking Elf". Just a bit of paper piecing and some delish Simple Stories Christmas paper. The layout is based on the latest CPS sketch #242. That means I can also tie this in with the Christmas Stampin' All Year Long Challenge which is to use your favorite sketch challenge. Truth be told, I love all sketch challenges!

Be sure to stop by the Whimsie Doodles blog to check out all the creations from the rest of the design team (I promise, lots of good stuff!). Then it is time to visit the Whimsie Doodles store to shop for some of these cuties!
Smiles,
Julie
Images - Whimsie Doodles, PP - Simple Stories, Ribbon - stash, copics, embossing - (Polka Dots) Cuttlebug.

Whimsie Doodles' November Sneak Peek

2011-11-04T03:00:00.002-04:00

Tomorrow is the November Whimsie Doodles' release! There are some cuties on the way!!!
Stay tuned, but here is a sneak peek for you :>)

If that is not enough of a peek, head on over to the Whimsie Doodles' blog for more.

Smiles,
Julie

Happy Halloween

2011-10-31T03:00:00.003-04:00

Ghosts, goblins and pumpkins galore.
Add a little snow to that and you have Halloween at my house.
There may be snow outside, but I am still thinking Halloween and here are a couple of little "last minute" gifties I put together for my sons to give their teachers.

The images are from the Whimsie Doodles' Halloween Hootenannies Gift Tags set - too cute! Just love those fangs on the kitty :>). These are also for the Wee Memories Brads Buttons or Bows challenge.
It has been quite awhile since I posted! We took a vacation to Walt Disney World (yay - so fun!) and now we are without power due to the snow that fell on Saturday (Booo Hooo to that!!!).
I could not resist sharing a pic of my front yard prior to the arrival of the snow. This is my son J and Dr. Bones.

When the skeleton arrived, affectionately named Dr. Bones, he became my son J's best friend. The first night at dinnertime Dr. Bones needed his own plate because J said he was hungry - he does look like he has not eaten in awhile :>).
Happy Halloween!
Smiles (even in the dark),
Julie

Holly Jolly Christmas with Your Next Stamp

2011-10-21T05:00:00.008-04:00

It's release time at Your Next Stamp and Karen, the owner, asked me to be a guest designer! So exciting!!! As if you could not tell from the title of my post, I am thinking Christmas. Today's cards are both made with the new stamp "Holly Jolly Gifts".

Ooooo, don't you just love all those gifts in a row. Plus, I can see this being used beyond Christmas. Wouldn't these make great Birthday presents?
Besides multiple occasions there are also so many ways to use this stamp. Copic colored gifts such as my fist card, or CAS which is the second card I am sharing with you.

Check out all those layers. I colored in the bows and added a little bling.
Now wouldn't these gifts also look great paper pieced? Or how about just a couple on a gift tag?
Tons of uses.
Be sure to head over to the Your Next Stamp blog to check out all the release details. This release is sure to get you in the holiday spirit.
A huge thank you to Karen - I always enjoy crafting with Your Next Stamp!!!
Smiles,
Julie
Details: Stamp - (Holly Jolly Gifts) Your Next Stamp, CS - PTI and SU, Ink - Momento and SU, PP - Simple Stories, copics, ribbon and rhinestones.

Think Pink

2011-10-17T05:00:00.004-04:00

The October Whimsie Doodles Challenge is to "THINK PINK" in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month. To be entered in the random drawing for a Whimsie Doodles prize all you need to do is create a card/project for breast cancer awareness or with pink as the main color. Whimsie Doodles images are not required, but we all love to see them! You have until October 25th to link up your project to the Whimsie Doodles Blog. Head on over to the Blog for all the details.

Melyssa has created some wonderful images specifically for Breast Cancer Awareness month. Each image is $2 and all proceeds will be donated to breast cancer research. Stop by the Whimsie Doodles Store to check them all out!
Here is my card featuring Hope Fights. Unfortunately so many of us have been impacted by breast cancer in one way or another. This card is going to be sent to a truly awesome woman who is "fighting like a girl" right now.

My card is also for this week's copic challenge on the Outlawz forum. I recommend checking out the forum and all the fun challenges. It seems like a really great group - supportive and sweet and generous!

Somehow ending with "smiles" just does not feel right for this one.
Stay strong!
Julie
Details: Image - (Hope Fights Skirt) Whimsie Doodles, PP - Basic Grey, CS - PTI, Copics.

Flashback Friday

2011-10-14T05:00:00.000-04:00

Yay, I get to play along with Flashback Friday! This time around the challenge is to re-post your first tag.
Here we are from Fall of 2009...

Not too scary :>)
Smiles,
Julie

Thanksgiving CAS

2011-10-11T05:00:00.006-04:00

Once I pulled out my Verve Bountiful Harvest set and it was easy to keep using all the wonderful Thanksgiving images.

I made today's cards for the Outlawz 1,000 member party challenges and although it is too late to join in the party fun, there are new challenges everyday!
Smiles,
Julie
Details: Stamps - Verve, Ink - Momento, Copics, Buttons - PTI, PP - Simple Stories, Embossing Folder - Polka Dots Cuttlebug.

Think Pink

2011-10-10T12:00:00.000-04:00

Be sure to stop by the store to check them all out!

I will be back later this month to share my project. Promise!

Smiles,
Julie

Outlawz Copic Challenge

2011-10-09T05:00:00.006-04:00

1
2
3
Pumpkins
Happy Harvest!

The Outlawz Copic challenge this week is to make a fancy fold card. This is a gate fold card made following the SCS tutorial found HERE. The DSP is some old SU that I inked up a bit to soften the white.
Smiles,
Julie
Details: Stamp - Verve, PP - SU, CS - PTI, Ink - Momento, Copics, Twine - PTI and button - stash.

Outlawz Sketch Challenge

2011-10-08T10:36:00.001-04:00

The Outlawz party continues and today I am sharing a card I made base on the sketch challenge. This is my favorite stamp from Your Next Stamp - Kite Flying Fhiona.

A happy and sunny card! Hope your weekend is happy and sunny too!
Smiles,
Julie
Details: Stamp - YNS (image), Verve (clouds) and PTI (sentiment), PP - MME and Cosmo Cricket, Ink - Momento, CS - SU, Copics, Twill - PTI and embroidery floss.

Block Stamping

2011-10-06T05:00:00.003-04:00

Every couple of week's Yvonne Yam has a guest designer on her blog. Always someone fabulous ;>) This time around the guest is Piali and she is challenging us to ink up an acrylic stamp block and use it as a background - clear block stamping.

Well, I did not go back and read the challenge before I started crafting. I used the ink pad itself as a background and I am so happy I made the mistake because I am liking the results!!! Are you like me and remember when SU changed the packaging on their ink pads. For all the "new" style ink pads I own there is a little warping going on, finally I have a reason to like the warping. It created such a great highlight with the "white space" in the center.

Once I made one, I had to make another.

This one is for the Outlawz Paper Ala Mode challenge, to make a non-fall card using fall colors. Check out all the details on the Outlawz forum. There is a huge party going on right now!

Of course after I made a couple I had so much fun (translation quick and easy) that I went a little crazy and made over a dozen more for note card sets. I promise to share, but first I need to finish something to go with my note cards. Ooooo and I am having so much fun with what I am working on (translation for that one is that it is fun, but it is taking forever to finish!).

Smiles,
Julie
Details: Stamp - PTI, Ink - SU, CS - PTI, Embroidery Floss - DMC, Button - PTI and Tim Holtz distressing tool - I splurged and replaced my serrated kitchen knife with a real distresser :>)

Whimsie Doodles October Release

2011-10-05T05:00:00.005-04:00

Halloween has never been cuter! Whimsie Doodles new release is full of adorable Halloween and Christmas images. I am sharing Halloween today, but those Christmas images are calling my name, so you know I will be coloring some up very soon!

My first card uses "Skinny Witch Flying" and I kept it on the CAS side with a full moon in the background and strips of patterned paper. The "10/31 Boo!" is an SRM sticker - so easy to use! This card is for the Raise the Bar Hat's Off challenge and The Pink Elephant Trick or Treat Challenge.

Next up is a card using "Skinny Witch" and this time I pulled in tons of patterned paper for the October SFYTT. After waiting until the last minute to finish the September sketch I learned my lesson, it is sooo much better to cross it off my challenge wish list earlier in the month. This card is also for the Paper Sundaes Lots of Layers challenge, there are 6 with all the mats. Plus, the ABC DT Challenge - Pumpkins, yep, I have one :>)

Be sure to stop by the Whimsie Doodles blog to check out all the other creations from the design team. Then it is time to visit the Whimsie Doodles store to shop for some of these cuties!
Smiles,
Julie
Images - Whimsie Doodles, PP - Martha Stewart and DCWV, Ribbon - stash, copics, stickers - SRM, and punches - (Bat) Martha Stewart.

A Sneak Peek!!!

2011-10-04T05:00:00.000-04:00

It is almost Whimsie Doodles release time! There are some cute, cute, cute images on the way. Here are a couple sneak peeks...what do you think you see?

Be sure to stop back tomorrow for the full reveal!
Smiles,
Julie

The Outlawz 1,000 Member Party

2011-10-03T03:44:00.000-04:00

There is a new (to me) challenge forum in town and they are celebrating in style...The Outlawz! Here are all the details:

Whoo-hoo! The Outlawz is celebrating

1000 Member Party!

Monday, October 3, 2011, 12:01 AM EST
until
Sunday, October 9, 2011, 11:59 PM EST

There are 5 games, a tutorial blog hop, 2 scavenger hunts and 7 challenges. All seven challenges will be participating in the party from start to finish. Unlike a regular week, all of the challenges will start on Monday, Oct 3 and each will have a different challenge for you to play to win prizes! The Challenges are located in the Challenge tab in the top tool bar with a drop down menu. Make sure you visit all 7 challenges to win more prizes!

Important: The 1000 Member Party has a tab in the top tool bar too with a drop-down menu. Make sure you access all 7 links in the menu to participate in the games, banner posting contest, and blog hop and to be eligible for more prizes!
That is a total of 14 places to visit and participate to win all the wonderful gifts the sponsors have donated for the party!

Let’s give our sponsors a huge THANK YOU! Without them, we would not be here!

Sincerely,
The Outlawz Design Team

Thanks to my sis for letting me know about the new forum. She knows how much I like crafty challenges!
Smiles,
Julie

September SFYTT

2011-09-30T17:56:00.000-04:00

One of my sons is in need of a Birthday card for another party this coming weekend. We are on a party streak, with 2 more B-days this weekend. Plus, I know there is another on the way the following weekend. Then we celebrate a big 0ne for my husband in October too! B-days are just one more excuse to craft - as if I actually need an excuse :>)

Ooooo, I am super last minute with this card! I have been playing along with SFYTT all year, so I do not want to miss a month now :>)
Here is the sketch. There are just a few hours left to link up!
Smiles,
Julie
Details: Stamp - Space Boy YNS, PP - Bo Bunny, CS - SU, Ink - Momento, and corner rounder punch.

CSAYL - CAS

2011-09-28T22:58:00.000-04:00

Whenever I am stumped I pull out the aqua paper. Today, it was ocean tides that came to the rescue.

This one is for the Christmas Stampin' All Year Long Challenge to create a CAS Christmas Card. I took a couple weeks off from Christmas cards, but I really like the feeling of having another one done!!! I sooooo hope to avoid the Christmas rush. Or at least hope to reduce the amount of last minute pressure I put on myself to make everything!!!
Smiles,
Julie
Details: Stamp - Verve, CS, Ink and Button - PTI, twine - stash, embossing - swiss dots Cuttlebug and scallop border punch.

Missing the Green Monster

2011-09-27T05:00:00.002-04:00

Baseball.
America's favorite pastime.
Errr, I think it should be crafting, but I will go with baseball today because I am sharing a "baseball" themed card. I decided that my sons should each give their own card for the party they went to over the weekend, so I quickly put together a little baseball fun with "Baseball Boy" from Your Next Stamp.

The Birthday boy's favorite team is the Red Sox hence the color combo. As I was taking a pic of my card I realized I should have added a panel of green to represent the green monster at Fenway Park. Alas, my card is "missing the green monster", but it has plenty of "red"! I used sketch #148 from Eat Sleep Stamp's Sketchy Thursday and flipped it.
Smiles,
Julie
Details: Stamp - (Baseball Boy) YNS, CS - PTI, Ink - Momento, Copics, Twine - The Twinery, Embossing - Tim Holtz, PP - Basic Grey and Tag svg - Perfect Presentation.

You're an A+

2011-09-25T23:39:00.000-04:00

Yes you are an A+.
For stopping by.
For saying hi.
For always inspiring me.
Thank you :>)
Today's card however is earmarked for one of my children's teachers. All 3 of my children have teachers who are an A+. My DD saw the card first though and quickly asked if she could give it to her teacher.

All the images on my card are from the "Owl Be Seeing You in Class" set from the Craft's Meow. Not only are the images fun, so is the title for the set :>) I can't get enough of Jenny Suchin's sets!!! I am currently drooling over the Halloween set and based on peeks at the October release there may just be turkey owls (hmmm, turkhoot?) on the way. My card is based on the September sketch challenge on the Craft's Meow blog. It is also for the Raise the Bar challenge "things with wings".
Have an A+ kind of week!
Smiles,
Julie
Details: Stamps - (Owl Be Seeing You) The Craft's Meow, CS - PTI, Ink - Momento, Embossing - (Typeset and Swiss Dots) Cuttlebug, Ribbon - PTI, Brad - stash, copics and Cork - Home Depot.

More Pups on the Way!

2011-09-22T22:20:00.002-04:00

First, I have the paper kind to share with you!

This little cutie is the pup from YNS' Kite Flying Fhiona set. I had cut out a bunch a few months ago and when I saw that the latest YNS challenge is paper piecing well it was time to pull 'em out! Plus, I need a "boy" b-day card for this weekend (or more appropriately, my sons' need a card to give). Now in addition to the YNS challenge, my "boy" card is also for Yvonne Yam's guest designer challenge from Lynn Miller to recycle! The recycling is the plastic "stick" the flag is waving from. In it's former life it held a lollipop :>) The layout is based on sketch #133 from Card Patterns.

Now you know when I use this stamp one card is never enough and I also need a "girl" card for next weekend.

My card is just 3" x 3". I took inspiration from the latest CAS-ual Friday's challenge to make a mini card and combined that with the Paper Player's CAS Animal or Plant challenge.

Part of the reason I may love this little pup stamp so much is that he looks like my own pup, Bolt. He truly is the sweetest and I love him even after he gets loose and I have to chase him around the neighborhood! Even after he digs up my potted plant, digs huge holes around the tree in our FRONT yard, rips a hole in my DD's comforter to bury a bone in the house, or when he chews the kids toys that are left on the floor (that at least helps keep the amount of toys in check!). Believe me, he has a few habits that I would love to break, but regardless his sweet personality outweighs all the digging and chewing!
Smiles,
Julie
Details: Stamps - (Kite Flying Fhiona) YNS and sentiments & Circles (For the Love of Dots) Practicing Creativity, CS - SU and PTI, Copics, PP - Basic Grey, Twine - The Twinery, Ink - Momento and SU, Stickers - SRM, and a recycled plastic lollipop stick.

A Doodlelicious Diva Hop

2011-09-15T05:00:00.104-04:00

Ready for some fun???
The new Whimsie Doodles Doodlelicious Divas are hopping and we would love for you to join us!!!
Learn a little bit more about each of us, check out some yummy eye candy and have a chance to win a Whimsie Doodle image of your own!!!
So, if you arrived here from Helen's blog then you are at the right spot. If you are just stopping by to say hi, then hello right back at ya and now you should bop over to Emily's blog to start at the beginning of the hop - you do not want to miss a thing!

Let's start off with the eye candy...here is Hoot and he is super cute!

Hoot may be designed for Halloween, but he makes a super cute addition for Birthdays too! He is part of the Halloween Hootanannies Set available here.
Hoot is available as both a plain image (Halloween Hootanannies) and a tag with To and From (Halloween Hootanannies Gift Tags). I used both images on my gift set.

My CAS card is based on the CAS135 Sketch Challenge on SCS. I saw Leigh Ann's card here and had to copy her idea to turn one of the strips in the sketch into a banner - thanks for the idea :>).

Ooooo, what girl doesn't want a new purse for her Birthday??? The Hoot tag is a fun way to dress it up. Change out the colors and you could have a tag for any holiday (I have visions of red and green dancing in my head!).

Now how about a few Doodlelicious Things About Me...
1. My first paper crafts project was heat embossed stamping. I know, what a way to start! I received stamps and the powder etc as a gift.
2. When I'm not paper crafting, I enjoy sleeping. Hee, hee, hee, this response comes after staying up late earlier this week to finish today's project so that I could give it as a Birthday gift!
3. My favorite Whimsie Doodles image is the penguin from Christmas Greetings he is just the cutest!
4. My favorite paper crafting technique is paper piecing.
5. My favorite embellishments are buttons.

Now that you have seen and read, you are ready to hop on to the next Doodlecious Diva, Kim. If you get lost anywhere along the way then check out the Whimsie Doodles Blog for all the details and a full list of stops on the hop!

Here are the challenges that I am entering my creations in:
Make it Monday - Anything Goes
Challenge Up Your Life - Paper Piecing challenge #52(on owl tag)
Ruby's Rainbow Challenge #12 - For a Girl

Thanks for hopping by!!!
Smiles,
Julie
Details: Images - (Hoot - Hootanannies) and (Hoot - Halloween Tags) Whimsie Doodles, Sentiment - Verve, Ink - (Chocolate Chip) SU, PP - (So Sophie) My Mind's Eye, CS - PTI, Buttons - PTI, Embroidery Floss - DMC, Template - (Carry Clutch) MTME and my Cricut.

Boo to You!

2011-09-12T05:00:00.002-04:00

Ready for a challenge?

Ready to win yourself some Whimise?

The Whimsie Doodles' challenge has gone monthly! That means more time to play (until Sept. 25th) and win yourself some fun Whimsie Doodles' images! September's challenge is inspiration by photo. What inspires you from this great photo?

For me it was all that white and the banner.

Those bats are a new image from the Whimsie Doodles September release - Halloween Hootenannies. There are 8 fun jpeg images in the set. Each image is 3.5" x 2.5", but I wanted something even smaller so I reduced the size down to about 1" x .75". I then printed out 3, flipping one to get the eyes going in a different direction. I really like the look of cutting the front flap shorter so I am doing it here again, plus it went so well with sketch #157 from Clean and Simple Stamping. The sentiments are both SRM stickers - sooo easy to use and I am lovin' the results!!!
Smiles,
Julie
Details: Image - (Hootanannies) Whimsie Doodles, CS - SU and PTI, Twine - The Twinery, copics and Sentiments - (Treats) SRM Stickers.