Friendly Words Wheel Class-to-Go

Stampin’ Around Wheels are an inexpensive and fast way to add texture and charm to any project. They are a great complement to many stamp sets and projects. Let me show you how you can create 11 different techniques using our Stampin' Around Wheel.

In this class you will make one gift bag with tag to hold four coordinating cards with envelopes. These beautiful vintage themed cards feature the Friendly Words Jumbo Stampin’ Around Wheel. Enjoy learning some great wheel techniques while creating this set of beautiful heartfelt cards to share with friends and family.



$60 plus shipping includes
Friendly Words Jumbo Stampin’ Around Wheel, Stampin’ Around Jumbo Handle, Two Wheel ink cartridges, Stampin' Pastels, all paper and accessories, PDF project guide emailed to you (includes detailed step-by-step instructions, full color photos, tips and techniques). Order By January 29th and Class kits will ship out February 5th. Email me to order at angelabodas@comcast.net : please include your name, mailing address, phone number, and payment option: personal check or Paypal (paypal invoice can be emailed).
OR

All items will ship February 5th, 2010

Standard 4-7 Days $65.00 Pick Up $60.00 Overnight $75.00

EMAIL ME by Friday January 29th to order your Class-to-Go. Once payment is receieved, supplied will be ordered and the Class-to-go should ship out to you on 02/05/10. The Project Guide will be emailed to you.

This product is provided by and will ship directly from me. This class kit is not available for purchase to other Stampin’ Up! demonstrators. If you are a demonstrator and are interested in this class, please email me angelabodas@comcast.net for more information. Refunds will only be processed upon return of all materials, and a $20 fee for the tutorial will be withheld from the total amount.

YOU WILL NEED TO SUPPLY:
Ink

• Chocolate Chip• Craft Whisper White• Stampin' Write Markers-Chocolate Chip & Brilliant Blue

Accessories

• Heat Tool• Stampin' Emboss Powder - White• Stamping Sponges• Sponge Daubers• Crop-A-Dile• Wide Oval Punch• 1-3/4” Circle Punch• SNAIL adhesive

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Everyday Elegance Class-to-Go

Add a touch of elegance to any occasion with this gorgeous set of black and white cards created using the Bride & Groom Specialty Paper & Stampin’ Up!’s Pretties Kit. In this class you’ll create 8 cards in all – four black cards & four white cards – as well as a unique box to hold them!

Order by January 29th, your Class-to-Go will ship out on February 5th. The project guide will be emailed to you. $75 plus shipping includes two stamp sets, paper and accessories needed for this project, PDF instruction guide which has full color photos and step-by-step detailed instructions to complete the custom designed card holder, eight 3" x 6" cards with the small open-ended envelopes . You will need to supply all adhesive and tools - see list below.

***Sale-a-Bration offer***

Order the two stamp sets (115100 Together Forever, 114968 Fundamental Phrases) online at my website by January 29th and I will include the Class-to-Go FREE with your purchase. You will qualify for a free Sale-a-Bration item with your purchase of the two stamp sets! Your product guide will be emailed, and your other Class supplies will mail out February 5th.

Email me today to order, include your name, mailing address, phone number, and payment option: personal check or Paypal (I will email a Paypal invoice for all credit/debit cards)

OR

All class supplies to ship out 02/05/10

Pick Up $75.00 Standard 4-7 bus days $80.00 Overnight $100.00

• Time Estimate: 1 ½-2 ½ hours including cutting
• Level of Difficulty: 2, this project involves simple stamping, cutting, card & card holder assembly
• Adhesive and Tools You will need to supply or order here:

101179 Basic Black Classic ink

104294 Sticky Strip
104332 Snail adhesive
100425 2-way Glue Pen

102023 Dazzling Diamonds Glitter

103579 Paper snips
105826 Mat Pack
116631 Paper-piercing tool
112208 Curly Label punch

116630 Modern Label punch
107590 Designer Label punch
112091 Scallop Edge punch
109046 1" circle punch
102449 Hobby Blade

101087 Craft Mat

101049 Stamp-a-ma-jig

104152/104154 Paper Trimmer & scoring blade

This product is provided by and will ship directly from me. This class kit is not available for purchase to other Stampin’ Up! demonstrators. If you are a demonstrator and are interested in this class, please email me angelabodas@comcast.net for more information. Refunds will only be processed upon return of all materials provided by me, and a $20 fee for the tutorial will be withheld from the total amount refunded.

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Cold and Cuddly - and oh so Cute!

I just love this stamp set. This is just one of those sets which surprises you with its versatility. Anytime you want a fun, festive and cute stamp set for winter, you will find yourself reaching for it. This stamp set has a really cute wintery feel to it. It can be made as simple or as intricate as you want! If you purchase this set from my website, I will send you the tutorial for 3hree custom designed projects – 1 card, one gift-card holder, and one 6" x 6" scrapbook page. Included are photos and step by step instructions, including cutting dimensions.
Item 116525 on my website







Some techniques used in my Free with Purchase tutorial are heat embossing, sponging, and using the Stampin' Write Markers to create muti-colored stamped images.

Embossing powder is a powder which is held in place with a sticky ink (such as Versamark or Craft ink) and then it is melted using your heat tool to create a shiny, raised surface. The effect can be both elegant and whimsical. So if you really want to create a wow in your projects, then try out these products. They are guaranteed to please!

Contrary to popular belief there is an actual technique to achieving a well sponged look. For starters when you hold your Stamping Sponge, you want to pinch just the top section. If you are using a sponge dauber then it will be a simple matter of sticking your finger into it. Next you will ink up your Stamping Sponge/sponge dauber. If you want to achieve softer color then you will be tapping your Stamping Sponge/sponge dauber into the ink. If you want a more intense color then you will be rubbing it onto the surface of your ink. Once your sponge wedge is inked then you will move to your Card Stock. Starting off beside the CS, begin rubbing your sponge in a circular motion. Do not press hard, you want the sponge to be cushiony in between your fingers and the CS. Once you have gotten rid of the excess ink onto your grid paper, you are ready to move onto your CS. By beginning off the CS and moving onto the CS, you are preventing ink blots and streaks which can ruin the look of your work. When you have run out of color to sponge, simply re-ink your Stamping Sponge and begin the process again. In the case of the sponge dauber, you will follow the same process if you are inking the edges of your CS, but if you are working within an image, then you will simply tap off excess ink onto your grid paper before starting with your circular motion.

A great technique used in these projects is using Stampin’ Write markers for stamping a multicolored image (for the stepped up version of project number one). Some of the things you may want to consider is that it is better when doing multiple colors, to start with the lightest color first and then move on towards the darker colors. The reason behind this, is that it will minimize contamination of your lighter colored markers with the darker colors. Because it may take a little extra time to color these images in due to the color changes, you will not want to forget to huff on the image before stamping down. This will ensure that you have re-moistened the ink on your stamp. Also don’t forget that proper care should be taken when using the markers, so that the tips do not become frayed and bent. A sharp tip ensures control and detail for future use.

Please email me if you would like a list of all the supplies used for these projects, or you have questions about the techniques mentioned.

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Holiday Helper - last chance for this years edition

Happy Holidays!
Wouldn’t it be nice to have creative ideas delivered to your inbox?

I'm here to help you add that sparkle and glitter to your Holidays - this year, or Next! :-) Save the great ideas and tutorials, and be Ahead of the Game for next holiday season (and actually, most projects can be modified for great gifts Year Round with simple changes to colors and stamp sets) These ideas will cover gift giving, decorating and card making. They will be packed full of inspiring ideas.

Just when you need the inspiration and the ease of great projects I'm available to you, ready to help you though the busiest time of the year. The holidays are a time of sparkle and wonder. Handmade gifts and decorating add to that in a way that is uniquely your own. Having inspiration for great projects, that are simple and easy to do, can be a jumping off point that will spark your creativity. Adding that little bit of your own personal touches to decoration, cards and gifts really does show that you care enough to go that extra step.

Sign up for the 12-day Holiday Helper. Set to be delivered to your inbox every morning starting December 13th. Just add your name and your primary email address and select Holiday Helper from the list of my email editions.

Joining late? Add your name and join us on any one of the 12 days, email me and I will send you the days you missed!

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Holiday Helper Black Friday Edition

Its Almost Turkey Day : Eat Up - you'll need your strength! The HOLIDAYS are upon us!!

We have holiday gatherings and parties. We have places to go with the kids. Presents that need to be bought. So many things that just have to be done. Wouldn’t it be nice to have creative ideas delivered to your inbox?

Sign Up today for 12 days full of great holiday help. These ideas will cover gift giving, decorating and card making. They will be packed full of inspiring ideas. Just when you need the inspiration and the ease of great projects I'm available to you, ready to help you though the busiest time of the year.

The holidays are a time of sparkle and wonder. Handmade gifts and decorating add to that in a way that is uniquely your own. Having inspiration for great projects, that are simple and easy to do, can be a jumping off point that will spark your creativity. Adding that little bit of your own personal touches to decoration, cards and gifts really does show that you care enough to go that extra step.

Sign up for the 12-day Holiday Helper. Set to be delivered to your inbox every morning starting November 27th. Just add your name and your primary email address and select Holiday Helper from the list of my email editions. I'm here to help you add that sparkle and glitter to your Holidays!

Happy Crafting!

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Class To Go - Dashing Thru Christmas Card Set

Fun, fast & festive!

These cards blend a touch of whimsy and tradition with quick folds and sparkle using the Merry Moments Designer Series Paper and some added Bling! with Iridescent Ice heat embossing powder - optional, for you bling-a-phobes. The cards are designed to be beautiful, easy and affordable to make, whether you make a few or a lot! Share joy and warmth by sending friends and family heartfelt greetings with handmade cards this holiday season.

Products Used:
Stamps: Dasher • Merriment (both stamps found in the great Under $10 section of the catalog - page 208) Paper: Chocolate Chip• Real Red• Old Olive• Garden Green• Very Vanilla• Merry Moments Designer Series Paper Ink: Chocolate Chip• VersaMark• Stampin’ Write Marker – Real Red• Stampin’ Write Marker – Old Olive Accessories: Heat Tool• Iridescent Ice Stampin’ Emboss Powder• Silver Brads• Bone Folder• Modern Label Punch• 1/16” Handheld Circle Punch• Cellophane Bag – Large Flat• Stampin’ Dimensionals• Sticky Strip• SNAIL• Paper Snips• Medium Envelops-Very Vanilla

$10.00 plus tax & shipping Ready to Stamp:

You will receive supplies to complete four cards and the card packet/treatbox. Cardstock is cut to size, envelopes included. You will need to provide the stamps, ink, adhesive, and tools. The Step-by-step instruction packet will guide you with full color photos, included are detailed supply lists and item numbers of all items used in the creation of the cards.

Class to Go Card Kit - Dashing

$10.00 plus tax & shipping
Ready to Stamp: You will receive supplies to complete four cards and the card packet/treatbox in your kit. Cardstock cut to size, envelopes included. You will need to provide the stamps, ink, adhesive, and tools. The Step-by-step instruction packet will guide you with full color photos, included are detailed supply lists and item numbers of all items used in the creation of the cards.

I will ship your kit to you within 7 days from reciept of payment.

Kit Includes:
Card Stock – Chocolate Chip, Real Red, Old Olive, Garden Green, Very Vanilla - all pre-cut to size; Designer Series Paper - Merry Moments - Six pieces; Medium Envelopes – 4; Cellophane Bag – 1; Silver Brads - 9; Instructions: PDF file, 19 pages with detailed step-by-step instructions and full color photos, also included are bonus ideas and some alternative sample photos - these instructions can be used again and again creating sets with different color combinations, themes, and stamp sets for many personal styles.

What else will you need? See the list below for items that were used to create the cards in this set. If you already have everything--just buy the card kit and you are ready to create! If you need a few of the supplies listed, these products can be found and ordered online at
http://www.midnightcrafter.stampinup.net/
Just click on Shop Now

116816 Dasher stamp

115556 Merriment stamp

100908 Classic Ink Pad – Chocolate Chip
102283 VersaMark Ink Pad
103579 Paper Snips

100052 Stampin’ Write Marker – Real Red
100079 Stampin’ Write Marker – Old Olive

104152 Paper Trimmer w/ scoring blade
102197 Powder Pals

102300 Bone Folder
100005 Heat Tool

101930 Stampin’ Emboss Powder–Iridescent Ice

116630 Modern Label Punch
101227 1/16” Handheld Circle Punch
104430 Stampin’ Dimensionals

104294 Sticky Strip
104331 SNAIL Refill

These products can be found and ordered online at

http://www.midnightcrafter.stampinup.net/

Just click on Shop Now

PLEASE NOTE: This class-to-go is NOT offered to Stampin' Up Demonstrators. If you are a Stampin' Up Demonstrator interested in this Class to go, please contact me at angelabodas@comcast.net

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Product Share Clubs - Build Your Crafty Stash (for LE$$)

With a great selection of Designer Series Paper, Ribbons galore and more, it's hard to stay on a budget. We want it all and we want it all now! I've received several requests for product shares, so here you go!

PRODUCT SHARES are a great way to get a variety of new product samples at a fraction of the cost. Please keep in mind: product ships when the club size is met (so tell your friends); and shipping can be combined!

PAPER SHARES

I have been just drooling over all of the wonderful designer paper in Stampin' Up!'s catalog on pages 160-163. I know you are going to want to get your hands on it too, so that is where this paper share comes in. This is great for Demonstrators too! There's no better way to sample it all than to participate in my Paper Shares! choose from:

DESIGNER SERIES PAPER SHARE : ($30.00, shipping $5.00) Club size: 8 Crafters
This share includes all DSP packs from pages 160-163 with the exception of Patterns DSP on pg 161. You will receive 105 - 6" x 6" designer series paper sheets from 18 packs (1 sheet each of the 6 double-sided designs per pack), plus the an assortment of the die cut sheets from "The Write Stuff" Specialty Designer Series Paper.

PATTERNS DESIGNER SERIES PAPER SHARE: ($20.00, shipping $5) Club size: 8 Crafters

This share includes only the Patterns DSP on pg 161. You will receive 84 - 6" x 6" designer series paper sheets, 1 each of the six double-sided designs from the 14 packs.

CARD STOCK MADNESS SHARE: ($30.00, shipping $5) Club size: 3 Crafters

This includes Two 8.5 x 11" sheets from all 48 standard colors, plus all 6 in colors and 6 of the neutral colors. These are all the papers on pages 155-157

EMBELLISHMENT & RIBBON SHARES (see photos HERE )
Yes - shipping can be combined when you purchase multiple shares.

POLKADOT RIBBON SHARE: ($15.00, $5 shipping) Club size: 4 Crafters This share includes 3 yards each of the 1/2" Poka-Dot Grosgrain Ribbon in all of the new In Colors (Rich Razzleberry, Bermuda Bay, Soft Suede, Crushed Curry, Dusty Durango, and Melon Mambo) and 2 yards of the Red. Total of 20 yards!

1/2" STRIPED GROSGRAIN RIBBON SHARE: ($11.50, $5 shipping) Club Size: 5 Crafters
You'll get 2 yards of each of these ribbons. Total of 12 yards!

1/4" GROSGRAIN RIBBON SHARE: ($22.00, $5 shipping) Club Size: 5 Crafters
You'll get 3 yards of all 19 colors! Total of 57 yards!

5/8" GROSGRAIN RIBBON SHARE: ($17.00, $5 shipping) Club size: 5 Crafters

You'll get 3 yards or each of these9 colors. Total of 27 yards!

THE ELEGANCE COLLECTION RIBBON SHARE: ($16.50, $5 shipping) Club size: 5 Crafters
You'll get 2 yards of each color of Taffeta and 3 yards of the Organza and Satin.
You can dye the white ribbons any color you wish so don't just think White, think Possibilities!
Total of 22 yards!

SPECIALTY BRAD COLLECTION SHARE ($20.00, $5 shipping) Club Size: 4 crafters Total of 64 pieces! Includes 2-6 of each of 5/16" and 5/8"Jumbo Brads, Build-a-brad, Flower, Filigree, Circle, Star, and Flower Assorted (see photos here:

EYELETS, GROMMETS & CLIPS SHARE ($18.00; $5 shipping) Club Size: 4 Crafters Total 70 pieces, including 1-15 pieces each of Jumbo eyelets, Basic Small Grommets, Jumbo Grommets, Assorted Clips (see photos here:

PRETTIES KIT SHARE ($7.50; $5.00 Shipping) Club Size: 5 Crafters
The flowers in this kit can be dyed with ink or colored with pastels, aqua painters or markers, to match any of the Stampin Up colors giving you perfectly matched projects every time! 78 pieces total

HODGEPODGE HARDWARE SHARE ($15.00; $5.00 shipping) These pieces coordinate with many punches. You will get 2 ea. of both Vanilla & Silver elements, plus 20 of each brad. 80 pieces total.

HOW TO ORDER:Sign Up for my Newsletter and More (the more being the shares you want to be a part of) or Email me. Be sure to include your name, shipping address, phone number(s), and a choose the shares you would like to be a part of. I will then email you a PayPal invoice. Once I receive your PayPal payment confirmation, I'll add your name to the appropriate share lists. My order to Stampin' Up! will be placed when groups of are eight are filled for Designer Series Paper. For Ribbon, groups of five. Please note: back orders and shipping times from Stampin' Up! to me are out of my control. As soon as I receive the product, I will cut, sort, and mail out as efficiently as possible.

SHIPPING INFORMATION:
USPS Flat Rate shipping
Contact me for a quote on multiple shares, but if it will all fit in a flat rate box, you only have to pay the one flat rate fee ($5.00).
U.S. Shipping Only.

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The Holiday Helper

It’s beginning to look a lot like the Holidays! Let’s face it, the holidays seem to appear earlier every year. They also have the uncanny knack of showing up when we are at our busiest. We have holiday gatherings and parties. We have places to go with the kids. Presents that need to be bought. So many things that just have to be done.

Wouldn’t it be nice to have creative ideas delivered to your inbox? Sign Up today for 12 days full of great holiday help. These ideas will cover gift giving, decorating and card making. They will be packed full of inspiring ideas. Just when you need the inspiration and the ease of great projects I'm available to you, ready to help you though the busiest time of the year.

The holidays are a time of sparkle and wonder. Handmade gifts and decorating add to that in a way that is uniquely your own. Having inspiration for great projects, that are simple and easy to do, can be a jumping off point that will spark your creativity. Adding that little bit of your own personal touches to decoration, cards and gifts really does show that you care enough to go that extra step.

Sign up for the 12-day Holiday Helper. Set to be delivered to your inbox every morning starting November 15th. Just add your name and your primary email address and select Holiday Helper from the list of my email editions. I'm here to help you add that sparkle and glitter to your Holidays!

Happy Crafting!

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There is nothing wrong with change

Things are always changing, and around here, its my turn. I am working on several new projects, and I am so excited to finally share them with you!

In the coming weeks, I am releasing my new Midnight Crafting Newsletter, full of tips and new techniques, coupons, and more. Please be sure to SIGN UP HERE, as I am using a new email service! With this new service I can offer you several kinds of newsletters based on Your preference! If you only want to know the latest Stampin' Up! promotions, sign up for Promotions; if you really want Samples of great projects you can do, sign up for Samples. And... you can change your mind at any time! Update your profile and tell me what you are interested in Now!

What else, you ask? Well... I am also preparing to offer some new classes and clubs. As you know, spending time with my family is at the top of my list of Musts in my life, and after paying the bills with my "day job" I am not left with much free time. ("Yeah, yeah, aren't we All!" you grouch at me, aren't you grumpy late at night :-) So, as I am unable to offer you traditional workshops and classes, I will be offering a variety of Virtual Classes and Clubs, so you can all be Midnight Crafters with me! Now, really, you can do the projects Any time that suits you best - at my house, it happens to be Midnight. I will attempt to make it easy for you to take that 30 minutes, hour, or afternoon (lucky duck!) you have free, and Get Crafty!

Some Clubs will be Share Clubs - join up, and you can get all the ribbons, or markers, or papers you've been longing for at a Fraction of the cost!! Some will be Virtual Monthly Clubs where you can focus on a particular interest - the Big Shot, Stampin', or Scrapbooking. Each month will bring you a new project or technique, and the opportunity to economically build up your crafty stash of tools and supplies while really learning how to use them! These clubs will also be a great opportunity to get the Hostess benefits you might miss out on with a onetime order or craft-stash resupply: every club will have a different hostess for each month! When its your turn to be Hostess, you don't have to clean the house top to bottom, you don't have to plan snacks and drinks for a group of people, and you don't have to clean up afterwards! You DO participate as usual (from the quiet comfort of your couch, perhaps, in your pajamas) and you DO reap the rewards including Free merchandise and Hostess sets!

This weekend I'll announce the newest Midnight Crafting Class and Kit. You will be able to sign up for a Class of the Month, or in a subscription format for continuous Monthly Inspiration. The Midnight Crafting Classes and Kits will feature a variety of project ideas consisting of card sets, scrapbooking and 3-D items. AND you’ll be able to create your special projects at a time and pace that fits your lifestyle! Each month you'll get a Class delivered right to your email inbox. It will include detailed instructions with supply lists, measurements, step-by-step instructions with full color photos, and Bonus project ideas - ways to create with different color combinations, themes, and stamp sets for many personal styles. If you need more help getting crafty, I will also offer a Class to Go Kit that will include the email tutorial and pre-cut card stock and embellishments, you supply the stamps, inks & tools needed to complete the project; and if you want it ALL -- a Midnight Madness Kit which includes not only the tutorial, and the pre-cut paper and accessories, but will also include ALL the supplies needed for the class - the stamp set(s) and tools! (extra shipping time needed for the Kits; extent of Madness is negotiable: if you have some, but not all the supplies needed, I will work to set you up, good 'n crafty!)
Here is a sneak peek at the first Class:
Dashing Thru Christmas!

Look for the announcement this weekend!!!




There is nothing wrong with change, if it is in the right direction. ~Sir Winston Churchill


I am so happy to offer you these new and exciting opportunities to let the Crafter inside you out to play! I hope you will join me in this new direction.

as always, Happy Crafting!

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I knew a little girl, who had a little curl...

An interesting technique for you to achieve the Curly Ribbon look - combines crafting and Baking :-D Brought to you by Wendy Stamps last year.

These curlys can be used in a variety of centerpieces, on favors and gifts (hairbows as well as wrapping bows, I am picturing it now!), and would make for some great Home decor pieces as well!

You will need:
Grossgrain Ribbon - she used 1/4" Chocolate Chip and Olive
Wooden Dowels - the thickness of the dowels will determine the size of the curl - ones used were 1/4" in diameter. Try experiemnting with different sizes. For the ribbons on the cake centerpiece (see link in name, above), two dowels put together to make more of a zig-zag curl. You may even try using popsicle sticks - anything wooden and oven-safe.
Wooden Clothespins - I used smaller ones. Do not use plastic as these may melt

1. Use a clothespin to secure one end of the grossgrain ribbon to one end of a dowel.

2. Wrap ribbon around the dowel, being sure to leave space between each rotation as shown above. If you do not leave space, the finished piece will resemble a long tube of ribbon instead of a springy curl.

3. When you get to the end of the dowel, cut the ribbon and secure with another clothespin.

4. Place your wrapped dowels on a cookie sheet or baking pan. The clothespins keep the dowels and ribbon from touching the bottom of the pan.

5. Bake ribbons in oven at 275 degrees for 30 minutes. Remove ribbons from oven and allow them to cool completely before removing from dowels.
Here is a fall project I made using the curly ribbons:

The 3-D pumpkin was adapted from one found on the Stampin' Up! demonstrator website, & the Big Shot was used to cut leaves from old olive cardstock using the Leaves #2 Die. She wheeled a design onto 3/4" X 11" strips of Pumpkin Pie cardstock. Everything is held together with rhinestone circle brads. The curly grossgrain ribbons made festive vines and tendrils!

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Accent the Savings

Deals of the Week continue with some great embellishments offered up:

1/2" Library Clips Let your inner librarian run wild when you clip a tag to a project with one of our adorable Mini Library Clips. These clips to add the right touch to your projects. They look great with onboard chipboard pieces, and get festive with a bit of ribbon added.
Contains 24 pieces, 8 each of 3 colors: Chocolate Chip, Old Olive, Whisper White ,Powder finish

These Mini Library Clips are a nice change from the usual types of clips. They’re adorable with a piece of ribbon tied around the end. I especially like to use them to attach journaling to my scrapbook pages. . These clips are 1/4" x 1/2" and each package contains 12 each of 4 colors (Black, Silver, Antique Brass, and Pewter).

Also on Sale this week are some Circle Designer Brads.

These high-quality cast brads are so easy to use. They're finished in Styled Silver, and can be used separately or with Hodgepodge Hardware. Brads always add a nice finishing touch to a project, but these substantial brads add so much more. Their size and intricate details make them stand out on any project. they make great accent pieces for the hears of flowers, or very clean corner accents. Assortment includes 16 pieces; 8 each of 2 sizes (1/2" and 3/4")
You can use the 1/16” Circle punch to make a perfect hole for your brad. When punching the hole for your brad, make sure you are far enough from the edge of the paper that the tails of the brad won’t extend past the edge. If the punch won’t reach where you want to place your brad, use the paper-piercing tool from the Crafters’ Tool Kit to punch a hole wherever you want.

Another awesome Deal: the Basic Jumbo Grommet!

Look at the accent potential! Custom designed, these large grommets add some real spunk! These grommets can even frame small images for real art appeal.
Available in Basic Black, Silver, Very Vanilla, Whisper White
20 grommets per package, 5 of each color
1" diameter; 1/2"center hole
Sized to coordinate with the 1/2" Circle punch
Perfect for framing small images
To set these grommets, push them through your paper and bend the prongs back with a
bone folder or similar tool. Do not use the Crop-A-Dile to set these grommets—the Crop-A-Dile will exert too much pressure and dent the grommets.

I love the cards here: all are from the Stampin' up Gallery on splitcoaststampers.com; if you'd like the supplies to make any of these, please email me for the "recipe".

To order the hot Deals of the Week - please visit my Stampin Up Store, and click on Shop Now, then Deals of the Week from the menu.

Open 24/7 for your convenience, and these deals are available without any special purchase. But Hurry -- the offer vanishes Monday 10/26 at 9:50am!! Get your accents while they are cheap enough to use on EVERYTHING!

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Class To Go - Spooky Bouquet and Halloween Treats

Get in the mood for a fun and funky Halloween! Make a spooky bouquet to decorate your table or give to neighbors and friends, then make special treat holders for your favorite trick-or-treaters. Once you see how easy these are, you will want to make more for all the neighbors and for school parties!




--Instructions Only--$10 I will email you a detailed 27 page PDF: full color photos and step by step instructions, as well as complete supply lists including item numbers.
Keep these instructions and use different color combinations, themes, and Designer Series Paper to make homemade floral arrangements and treat bags and boxes for all of the holidays. They will delight your neighbors, friends, family, and teachers.

Featured Products:
115677 Designer Series paper - Cast-a-Spell
116497 Twick or Tweet stamp set
116802 Sweet Treat Cups
103104 Cellophane Bags - Small Flat
112084 On Board Loads of Letters: 'BOO'
113439 Big Shot**
116819 Stampin' Up! Table Setting Bigz XL Die**

As a Special Bonus - email me your order for the Featured Products above and get 10% off AND the class instructions for Free! angelabodas@comcast.net
**SPECIAL DOUBLE BONUS: if you order by 10/18/09 Sunday night at 10pm PT the big shot Exclusive die and the Machine Itself will be %15 off!
---applies to EMAIL ORDERS ONLY---

PLEASE NOTE: This class-to-go is NOT offered to Stampin' Up Demonstrators. If you are a Stampin' Up Demonstrator interested in this Class to go, please contact me at angelabodas@comcast.net

For More Photos please view HERE
Products Used:
Stamps & Dies
• Twick or Tweet • Stampin' Up! Table Setting Bigz XL Die
Ink
• Basic Black Classic Ink • Platinum Shimmer Paint
Card stock
• Cast-a-Spell DSP • Basic Black • Perfect Plum • Old Olive
Other
• Big Shot Machine • On Board Loads of Letters Chipboard • Stampin’ Dimensionals • Old Olive 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon • Small Flat Cellophane Bags • Sweet Treat Cups • Silver Brads • Floral Foam • Google Eyes (optional) • Pipe Cleaners - Black

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How do you FIND the time?

I believe that is the number one question I am asked, and the most common comment when I share my craftiness...
We are All working with the same allotment here:
60 minutes an hour
24 hours a day
7 days a week
(If you know of some other arrangement by which I can get More hours in a day, please - Share!!)
But you will notice that there are people (or perhaps You are that person) who never can "Find" time for things they profess to Love. Finding time to spend with loved ones or friends, finding time to get those To Do's Done, finding time to go to those great Places To See Before You Die, or just finding time for personal pursuits - reading, worship, exercise, and my Personal Favorite: Crafting.

I used to wonder, back in the days before I had even one of the two wonderful "time bandits" I now have (aka children), What are those people talking about?! Finding time - if you plan it right, you have almost Too Much time! Hah... Thoughtless naivete of the Single Girl.
Even with the best plans, there really never is Enough time for Everything! Between work and family, and that old standard Sleep, really - Everything? EVERY thing? Now, if time ran in a circle and we spun pirouettes till the end of days, there would still never be time for Everything...Bills, groceries, Doctors visits, family celebrations, Holidays, sick time, play time, calm time, nap time, charity, social, and community events... the list is never ending of things that will at some point or another "steal" away that time you have.
But these words we use kind of point to the real culprit:
Find
Steal
Lose
these are all passive "it happened to me" kind of words... Where is your control, your decision, your power? Do you wear the watch, or does it wear you? And by Everything - what are we really describing there?
Granted, there are definitely things that will use some of that precious allotment with no substitutions: you have to eat, you have to rest, if you have children you have to meet their needs for food and rest (and love :-), you have to keep a roof over your head, and clothes on your body. There are definite "musts" that will always trump Craft Time.
But really - the majority of your time use is left to your own discretion. You choose to commute to work a certain way - public transit or driving. You choose to log onto Facebook and YouTube and see the latest updates or hot videos. You choose to spend hours looking for just the right outfit at just the right store at the mall. You choose to gab on the phone with that friend you never really liked anyway. You choose to maintain a Home & Garden show house. You spend hours watching TV. You spend hours (yes, it will add up to hours, if you were to really log the time you spend on your daily activities) a week on activities that do not feed your soul or further your agenda of "important to me" items. I know - ask me what level Farmer I am :-) or how many movie or book reviews I have clicked through, or take a gander at how many Tweets I post a week....
But: if I choose to relax and connect with friends, if I choose to get a cup of coffee after work, or choose to catch the latest Sesame Street with the kids, or choose to stop at the park on the way home from Target... I choose to Not spend that time crafting.
Essentially it boils down to this:
You Choose how you spend your "free" time.

Challenge your Choices:

• Take out a sheet of paper and write down your top priorities, put them in matter of importance to your personal well-being. Prioritise your priorities
• keep a log of how you spend your time for a week : click here for a great explanation and How To of How to Keep a Time Log
• At the end of the week, take a good long look at that log. Add up how much time you spend on your priorities. Add up the times spent on the most common items.

Are your priorities getting their deserved allotment of those precious minutes we have each day? Why not? What can you do about that?

Now if they were asking

"How do you MAKE time to craft?!"

that is a whole 'nother story!!

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Halloween Treat Box
Stamps
Pumpkin Patch (from Holiday Mini Catalog)
Paper
Pumpkin Pie card stock
Whisper White card stock (1-1/2" x 1-3/4")
Ink
Basic Black Classic Stampin' Pad
Chocolate Chip Classic Stampin' Pad
Old Olive Classic Stampin' Pad
Pumpkin Pie Classic Stampin' Pad
Accessories
Stampin' Dimensionals
Box Pattern

Instructions
Using a simple box pattern, trace pattern on Pumpkin Pie card stock, then cut out and score. Stamp grass image in Pumpkin Pie ink on unassembled box. Assemble box.
Stamp pumpkin image in Pumpkin Pie ink, face and stem images in Chocolate Chip ink, and grass and curly vine images in Old Olive ink on Whisper White card stock. Adhere to treat box using Stampin' Dimensionals.
Stamp "From our patch to yours" in Basic Black ink on top of treat box.

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Theeeey're Baaaack!

The Deals of the Week at Stampin' Up! that is!
Order today to take advantage - sweet Treats are all yours!
click on Shop Now at www.midnightcrafter.stampinup.net

The first deals of the week are from October 1, midnight (MT) through October 12, 9:50 AM (MT). After that, check for a new Deal every Monday at 10am MT for the new special Treat! Get great savings on all 4 Deals this month!!

This week its a 1-2-3 knock-out with these awesome Punches:

Item / Page / Description / Regular Price / Special Price
109183 186 Trio Flower punch $15.95 / $10.99
109041 187 5-Petal Flower punch $15.95 / $10.99

110709 187 My Way punch $15.95 / $11.99

Need some great ideas for these punches? Sure thing:

The Trio Flower punch adds adorable details to scrapbook layouts, papercraft projects, and can be used with the 5-petal Flower punch to create this adorable little lamb:

(also used, and Wonderful for all sorts of Punch Art -- Scallop Circle punch, and Word Window punch, Oval punch, and a small Circle punch).

It also coordinates with the current set Punch Pals (116588, $32.95 set of 12 --BTW - awesome muti-use set for the Holidays and Beyond! the penguin is TOO cute!!) It really is perfect for adding that 3rd dimension to many of the floral stamps, and looks great as a simple addition with a brad in the center.

The 5-Petal Flower punch coordinates with the Spotlight on Christmas (111694, $22.95 set of 6) and works well on its own as an accent in scrapbooks or paper projects, and there is a great 5-petal Flower punch Leaf tutorial here. Many punches have "another" use in creating Punch Art. fascinating creative use of the shapes, have to show you more on that another time...

The My Way punch is another great accent piece - use the arrows to draw attention to details in a larger card or scrapbook layout. It does coordinate with a couple stamp sets as well: Certified (113706, $27.95 set of 6) and Cute Cues (111622 $11.95 set of 6). Its also a great coordinating accessory for the creative Big Shot Pop-Up die that cuts a whole card: Look Here (115966, $42.95)

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A Bedroom without a Teddy Bear...

A Bedroom without a Teddy Bear is like a Face without a Smile! ~Gill Davies

You love Build-A-Bear Workshop; now you can create your own Build-A-Bear Workshop bears to use on scrapbooks, birthday cards, party invitations, and more! Just like you can personalize a plush Build-A-Bear teddy bear, you can customize and personalize your die-cut bear using the colors and materials you want. Use Stampin’ Up!’s exclusive Bear Bigz die to create your basic bear, and then let your imagination run free!

Here are some BEARy cute ideas - perfect for friends and family! (and great craft show or boutique ideas!)
Michelles Rubber Room - Michelle used adhesive magnet sheets & Stampin' Up! cardstocks and designer papers to create dress-up Bears and their accessories, then added adorable backgrounds for playtime, and collected everything into metal DVD tins! Really a clever gift!

My Life's Art shows a sample from Convention on the Build-a-Bear bags made using the die cuts on fabric and fusing it to a canvas bag! Sweet!

This would be a really fun Baby Shower activity/gift! Die Cut White fabric and have guests color with fabric markers and then iron on to Onsies or Blankets; or using various fabrics create mix and match but coordinated sets of sweats and blankets and hats and bags and... you get the idea :-)


These dies are great because there are so many uses for them - the Sizzix Big Shot dies can actually cut through 50+ types of material!!

Ideas to get you going:

• Bath Toys (poly foam sheets),
• decorating jackets and pants sets with various fabrics
• creating fun family decals for the car or cooler (always know yours at the game!)
• cutting colored beeswax you could make some great candle gifts for the mother to be, or PAWsitively adorable matched favors for her baby shower
• Tin or aluminum cut outs would make some garden Beary beautiful wind chimes or garden markers, fun walk-way greeters for the Halloween or Christmas Holidays with the adorable costumes!
• make great wall art for your little ones room using vinyl sheets -- at a fraction of the cost for custom decals! You could decorate the walls, a dresser, a coat rack, toy boxes, bookshelves -- all coordinated, and made by hand with love! Think of the savings if you re-purpose some furniture and give it a whole new spin with these cute Bears!
• static-cling vinyl would make for some great re-usable window decorations! Holiday Cheer!
• Decorate binders or journals

These Bears make great accessories for favors, gifts, scrapbooks and frames, and home decor. And have you tried out the Big Shot - it is EASY to use!

The following materials work well when creating die cuts with the Big Shot machine and Bigz and Originals dies. Please note the maximum thickness of several materials. As a rule of thumb, you can cut a material with your Big Shot machine and Bigz or Originals dies if you can cut it using your Craft & Paper Scissors.
Thick corkboard - Thick chipboard (59 mil) - Colored magnet - Paper wood - Balsa wood (3/32") - Bass wood (1/16") - Metal mesh - Aluminum (.016) - Tin (.008) - Adhesive and non-adhesive mat board - Vinyl - Static cling vinyl - Shrink film - Vellum - Card stock - Contact paper - Fabric - Canvas - Iron-on fabric - Soft plush fabric - Burlap - Velvet - Corduroy - Lace - Heavyweight denim - Terry cloth - Funky fur - thin leather - Quilt batting - Warm & natural batting - Fusible fleece - self-adhesive craft metal - Self-adhesive cork - Self-adhesive foam - self-adhesive magnet - Self-adhesive felt - Adhesive and non-adhesive rubber - Pop up sponge
- Poly foam - 100% pure beeswax (cut with parchment paper on top & bottom of beeswax.)

Please let me know if you need more ideas or instructions...
Happy Crafting!
~angie


Like What You See? Why don't you try out my Big Shot Club!

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Big Shot Club

Why a club? Well, how many times have you purchased a new tool only to have it sit around because you are uncertain about using it? (Don’t be shy - I’m guilty of this too!)

I will train you for 5 months (the Last Tuesday of every month starting September 29, 2009) on the uses of your Big Shot if you join the club or purchase your Big Shot from me!

At each of the club meetings, we will make 2-3 projects using the Big Shot, so you will get hands on training. If you’d just like to attend the club as a guest and learn how to make the fun projects, you can! Just pay a $15 class fee, and come on! Of course, club members attend for free!

Get started now with the Sizzix Big Shot machine and basic dies, decorative strips, and cutting pads and you will have everything you need to create splendid projects in a breeze. Create cards, scrapbook pages, home décor, and more using card stock, designer series paper, fabric, chipboard, plastic, etc.

BIG SHOT CLUB – Option A
What You Get:
• Big Shot Die Cut Machine

• One Multipurpose Platform

• Two Standard Cutting Pads

• Two Stampin' Up Exclusive Bigz Dies (page 198/199) up to $29.95 in value each

• One Stampin' Up Exclusive Sizzlits 4-pack (page 197) up to $29.95 in value

• One Stampin' Up Exclusive Decorative Strip (page 196) up to $29.95 in value

• Decorative Strip Cutting Pads• Decorative Strip Spacer Platform

Bonus Items

• One Level I Hostess Set• $20 in free Catalogue Merchandise

• Five monthly classes creating items with the Big Shot (September, October, November, December, January) - Last Tuesday of every month

• Option to purchase additional dies at a 10% discount during your time in the Big Shot Club

• A 2009-2010 Stampin' Up Catalogue
Cost: $325 (5 monthly payments of $65)
You will get your Big Shot in your hostess month - which will be determined on our first day of club. (Or if you are like me and can’t wait, you can make one payment and I will order your Big Shot for you immediately.)

BIG SHOT CLUB – Option B
(If you already own a Big Shot)
What You Get:
• Decorative Strip Spacer Platform

• Texturz Impressions Pad

• Texturz Silicone Rubber

Decorative Strip Cutting Pads

• Extended Cutting Pads

• Premium Crease Pad

• One Bigz xl die (page 200/201) up to $53.95 in value

• One Bigz die (page 198/199) up to $29.95 in value

• One Decorative Strip die (page 196) up to $29.95 in value

• One Originals die (page 202) up to $21.95 in value

• One Sizzlits 4-pack (page 197) up to $26.95 in value

• One Embosslits (page 195) $15.95 value

• One Texturz Plates Kit (page 195) up to $15.95 value

Bonus Items

• One Level I Hostess Set• $20 in free Catalogue Merchandise

• Five monthly classes creating items with the Big Shot (September, October, November December, January) - 4th Thursday of every month

• Option to purchase additional dies at a 10% discount during your time in the Big Shot Club

• A 2009-2010 Stampin' Up Catalogue

*make sure to contact me regarding substitutions if there are items in the list that you already have and don't want to double up on*

Cost: $325 (5 monthly payments of $65)

You will get your Big Shot in your hostess month - which will be determined on the first day of club.(Or if you are like me and can’t wait, you can make one payment and I will order your Big Shot for you immediately.)

If you are interested in joining don’t hesitate, this club is limited to 8 people so RSVP early to avoid disappointment.

For all of my classes and clubs, please bring your own adhesives (SNAIL Adhesives, Stampin' Dimensionals, Glue Dots, Sticky Strips and Tombow) and 12" paper trimmer and sharp scissors!

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Free Set with Purchase

Oh its almost here!! The New Mini Catalog comes out September First and I am SO excited by the great sets and accessories! My pre-order has arrived, and I am LUVING it!

BUT **MR** MidnightCrafter has declared that as the new sets come in, so must some of the old sets move on - there is a premium on space in the craft closet. So for you crafty folks who would like a deal:

I would like to offer a FREE set from my own personal collection for the first $25 order, the first 4 $50 orders, the first 4 $75 orders, the first 2 orders over $100, and the first order over $200 placed online at my Stampin' Up! website. These are retired sets from my own collection. These sets are no longer sold by Stampin' Up! You can not order them from the new fabulous catalog, but when you visit my website at www.midnightcrafter.stampinup.net and click on the Shop Now button in the upper right corner, and purchase $25+, $50+, $75+, or $100+ (in merchandise only, before Tax and Shipping) in Stampin' Up! New Products, you can choose one of these great sets! I will send it right on out to you! Speaking of mailing,
Prefer to look through a beautiful, in-person, Idea Book & Catalog to do your shopping? Enter your info HERE today and I will mail out to you your very own Free copy of the 2009-2010 IBC and the newest Mini-Catalog which will go live 9/1/09! I will include order forms if you'd prefer not to order online.
All sets come from a smoke free home, are lovingly and gently used, mounted and cleaned, and may include a bonus idea sheet or sample, as I have them. There is nothing wrong with these great sets, I simply can not keep every set I have loved. Once you place your order email me with your choice! Please include an alternate (I will update as sets are removed, but) in the event that there is a duplication. The first order placed receives 1st choice.

*Please note that retired items are shipped separately and do not count towards Stampin' Up! hostess benefits as they are provided by me, and not by Stampin' Up!.

*As sets are given away with orders, they will be removed from the choices-- so if you want a set, order and email me right away. Early birds get the stampin' worm!

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Opportunity Knockin' -- its Stampin' Up!

While anytime is a great time to join the Stampin' Up!family as a demonstrator, joining during August is especially sweet!

Starting your own Stampin' Up! business means free and discounted products, plus a little extra cash --and who couldn't use that? And now, thru August 31, you can become a Stampin' Up! demonstrator for only $85!

Just thought I'd mention, since it *IS* the last week for this fabulous Mini-Kit offer... The special, limited-time Mini Starter Kit contains many of the items you need to get started in your new business, including: • For All You Do stamp set ($28.95 value)• Six In Color Classic Stampin' Pads ($5.95 value each)• One pack of 8-1/2" x 11" Whisper White card stock ($7.50 value)• One pack of 8-1/2" x 11" In Color assorted card stock ($7.95 value)• Business forms and tools (approx $65 value)

• Do you want a discount on Stampin' Up!® products?


• Do you plan to buy more stamps in the future?


• Would you like to earn some $$ to pay off a bill, buy new stamps and more?

If you answered YES to any of the above questions, contact me for more information about the Stampin' Up!® Demonstrator Starter kit. There is also a special bonus for those interested in starting with the Standard Kit for $199: along with all the items pictured below,

Stampin' Up! will send you a BONUS GIFT OF ALL SIX IN COLOR INK PADS & ONE PACK OF IN COLOR CARD STOCK!

Both the Standard Starter Kit, and the Mini Starter Kit, are completely customizable. You can choose the default options pictured in the kits, or order the stamp sets, ink colors, and paper colors you want! (A great way to get everything you need for Holiday Crafting now!) Both Starter Kits come with the same amount of business supplies and tools.

The fastest and easiest way to become a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator, is with a credit or debit card. Just click on MY ONLINE RECRUITING PAGE and enter my Recruiter Authorization Password: midnightcrafter (If you need to mail in a check for your Starter Kit, please email me and I can send you all the forms you'll need!)

Contact me for more details.
Or Find Out More online at my Stampin' Up! website HERE

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Easy Simple Bag - o - Candy Gifts

I love making these little gifts - they make a good stocking stuffer, are great for kids or co-workers, for a holiday boutique or fundraiser; and they are Easy! Shown above are ones I did last year -- Snowman Kisses and a Rudolph Repair Kit. The bag toppers are super easy using the Top Note die and my Big Shot!

Here's the "recipe" for two of my Favorites: Snowman Soup and Magic Reindeer Food

Snowman Soup --
Warm the hearts of good little boys and girls with a packet of Snowman Soup! Take a packet of hot chocolate, chocolate kiss, marshmallows and candy cane, package in a holiday-themed goody bag, then add a gift tag for a cheery winter gift. Easy enough for children to make, Snowman Soup is perfect for a stocking stuffer, office gifts, Secret Santa presents or 12 Days of Christmas gifts.
This works great as shown, options instead of bagging it might be to decorate a plain mug with some fabulous Rub-Ons from Stampin' Up! They have a great variety of themes and with 2-4 sheets each depending on the pack, you could make a few or a fa-la-la-la-lot!

Assemble in a gift bag, gift mug or small zipper food storage bag:1 individual packet hot chocolate mix 2-3 chocolate kiss candies 10-15 mini-marshmallows small candy cane

Print in a fun font onto card stock and cut out using the Big Shot and Top Note Die and create bag topper, or hand-write this poem and attach to gift:

Snowman Soup
Was told you've been real good this year. Always glad to hear it!
With freezing weather drawing near,You'll need to warm the spirit.
So here's a little Snowman Soup Complete with stirring stick.
Add hot water, sip it slow. It's sure to do the trick!

Magic Reindeer Food:
Many families leave cookies and milk for Santa, but what about his reindeer? Sprinkled on the lawn on Christmas Eve, Magic Reindeer Food leaves a glittering path--and a sweet snack--for Rudolph and friends. Perfect for the little ones to help with! An inexpensive stocking stuffer, Magic Reindeer Food makes a great classroom or Secret Santa gift. Package this simple recipe in zipper food storage bags or treat bags, and add a bag topper.

In a small zipper food storage bag or empty shaker container, mix:1/2 cup uncooked oatmeal
1/4 cup sugar
Two Tablespoons red or green sugar crystals (as used for cake decorating)
Print in a fun font onto card stock and cut out using the Big Shot and Top Note Die and create bag topper, or hand-write this poem and attach to gift:
Magic Reindeer Food

Be sure to take this magic food and sprinkle on the lawn,
On Christmas, Santa's reindeer travel miles before the dawn.
The smell of oats and glitter path will guide them on their way
And you'll wake up to Santa's gifts next morn on Christmas Day!

Need more cute Bag Gifts?

try:

Halloween - Witches Brew

Thanksgiving - Blessing Mix

or if you like them, check out the Poop gift bags (Ghost poop - mini marshmallows, Pumpkin poop - cheese puffs; Kim has the scoop on ALL the poop at her site :-)

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Cards For Heroes card making

What a great weekend! CardsForHeroes.org had a GREAT Christmas Card Inspiration mini-Blog Hop, and I had the girls over for some Card Making for CFH -- yielded 50 cards! Should have a great package to send off this week!

Check out the Blog Hop

Thanks to my crafty friends for supporting a great cause!

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Someone remembers, someone cares

Someone remembers, someone cares;
Your name is whispered in someone’s prayers.
~Author Unknown

Welcome! I am participating in the Mini-BlogHop for CardsforHeroes.org, a great organization that supports our nation’s armed forces by sending blank greeting cards to write home on, as well as cards of gratitude to encourage them. Please click HERE to visit this amazing organizations website and learn more about them! Want to get involved? Click HERE.
Have no idea what I am talking about and want to start the Hop at the Beginning?!? Start Hopping HERE on August 15th, and all weekend long!

What could be better than doing what we love—making beautiful cards—and helping our nation's brave heroes at the same time? Thousands of card makers across America are joining forces to share their gifts and talents to bless those deployed far from home, and in return are bringing smiles to families and friends across the country! -- CardsForHeroes.org

In honor of the Holiday deadlines approaching -- NOVEMBER 1st is the last day CardsForHeroes.org can accept Christmas and Hanukkah cards in order to get them to our troops so that they can be sent out to families at home -- I am sharing a bit of Holiday Inspiration with an easy technique to get you in the Spirit (and Ahead of the game - let the countdown begin!!)

Have you tried the KISSING TECHNIQUE lately? It makes for some mighty unique and coordinated stampin'! This basic technique adds texture to solid stamps. Want to add some pizazz to your Alphabet sets? Get more from the sets you have been using alot? Add spice to otherwise plain ole stamping?This is the trick!

From my Favorite Stamper : BEATE
To try this technique you will need:

Solid image stamp (most alphabets, the Extreme images, Petal Pizazz, or Cheep Talk or Good Friend, and the Medallion would be really pretty in this style)

Two coordinating colors of dye ink

Cardstock Small image or background stamp

Darker color ink marker (optional)

To use this technique:
Ink a texture stamp (one with lines, dots, etc.).

Place it face up on your work surface.

Ink a solid stamp with a lighter color.

Press the solid stamp into the texture stamp so they "kiss" each other.

The background stamp leaves a pattern on the solid tamp.

Stamp the combined image on cardstock. The result is a subtle or textured version of the solid stamp.

(Optional) To add a darker border around the image, run your marker around the edge of the image.

Stamp image on cardstock & Finish your card.

You can also press inked stamps onto a background stamp and then stamp either stamp for an interesting effect. Or instead of using a background stamp, ink up a small stamp with dark ink and stamp it directly on your solid stamp.

View Some Samples HERE and some more samples & a really cool blog HERE

Now get out and try it - and start setting aside those cards for CFH and our men and women far from home!! For more inspiration visit the NEXT STOP ON THE BLOG HOP <-- click on it!

Blessings on our Nations Armed Forces, and the families that support them! Lets bring some bright spots to the holidays this year for them!

Happy Crafting! ~angie

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August - halfway through the Year

I am thinking about calendars more and more these days. Not just because I manage one in my day job, but also because I need to manage the one at home more skillfully! We are so caught up in the whirl that I am often amazed we remember anything at all! I love that there are people out there (GCL and MDE) that maintain beautiful calendars and always have the Birthday cards ready a week or two ahead of time AND manage to get the cards out in the mail with time to spare for delivery. I think calendars are the best gifts - but the personalised ones with all the dates already noted, with pictures or quotes, with some character, are the very best!

Stampin' Up! Has two pre-made calendars,
Days-To-Remember Calendar 6X6 -- personalise in so many ways!
Item #104144 for $9.95
and
Whisper White Birthday Calendar -- Birthdays and Events in a perpetual calendar.
Item #101398 for $7.95
And coming out September 1st, in the new Mini Catalog, an adorable calendar kit and coordinated stamp set I can't wait to show you!

A great Scrapbook layout using a calendar is a featured project this month. (Image to the Right) This would be a great way to scrapbook milestones or

If you want it to be a more traditional calendar, you can use some of the great coordinating paper and embellishments to create a beautiful calendar to treasure.

Some ideas to add character & make a very Giftable Calendar:

• Preserve happy memories. For the month of November or December use a photograph of Uncle Harve carving last year's turkey or a closeup of the family Christmas tree with its collection of ornaments gathered over the years.
• Relive significant moments. Put Mom and Dad's Wedding Photo on the Month of their Anniversary.
• Honor a lifetime of achievement. The year Grandma turns 100 give a calendar to everyone at her birthday party that is full of significant dates and photos of her life from birth to present.
• Coordinate your calendar. Give a gift set of personalized calendars along with matching birthday, anniversary, and other special occasion cards. Use a family theme or decorate with your own artistic creations.
• Keep family history alive. Use photos and birth dates of long gone ancestors. Create a collage of all the 'Juniors' or other family members -- past and present -- that share the same name, the same birth month, or the same occupation.
• Watch baby grow. Make a Calendar Baby Book. Start with the month of the child's birth and for each month provide a place to record 'firsts' measurements, and other milestones. Decorate with appropriate graphics or baby photos of the parents.
• Don't forget the cranberry sauce. The absent-minded Chef in the family would appreciate a custom daily/weekly meal planner for the holidays. Put in reminders for ordering the Thanksgiving turkey, when to start baking and freezing cook ahead dishes, or the best times to stock up on seasonal ingredients.
• Never forget another birthday. Keep birthdays and anniversaries handy with a business card size calendar listing significant dates for family and friends. Make it a folded business card style and add a birthstone list, favorite colors, or sizes.

Make it Super Giftable, even if you are not using personal photos or dates: Attach a Gift Card

• Add it to that special someones birthday month, or to signifigant holidays.
• For your kids, maybe a monthly card for allowance or iTunes downloads.
• For a Boss or special Co-worker, maybe a coffee card of the month or a gas card for when you know they'll need one - vacations or holidays.
• For that family member with a new baby, maybe a diaper card or different gift card for each month - dinner out or movies (with a note of baby-sitting included :-), home or baby store cards for baby-proofing, box of candy for the new parents.
• For your sports fan - tickets for a game, or season.

There are countless cards out now, and a thoughtful addition to a simple calendar could make for a Wow gift! Some of these ideas are quick and easy, but others you may want to add time to your calendar NOW to be able to complete them by the gifting season.

Some Cute Calendar Crafts to do with Kids can be found HERE and HERE
Calendar templates for to print and assemble can be found HERE.

Happy Crafting!
~angie

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