Sarahs Stampin

Sarah is stampin no more :(

2012-01-04T18:34:00.002-06:00

so sorry for my absence lately. The truth is I have done much stampin in a long, long time. I have gotten re-acquainted with my love of sewing and over the past couple of years have begun honing this skill (which is still a work in progress) and working to get a clothing line going. Please follow me at www.iducksoup.blogspot.com or www.ducksoupdiy.blogspot.com for all sorts of crafty information. Thank you for your support and understanding!

Card and Envelope

2010-01-24T13:48:00.002-06:00

I think this may be the first time that I've ever done a matching card and envelope. I made this for a friend of mine.

The paper is from the Sweet Pea paper stack. Isn't it fun? I absolutely love the colors!
Thanks for looking!
Sarah
Sarah Nelson
Sent from my BlackBerry

2010-01-10T13:48:00.002-06:00

It feels good to be back in the groove! Got some new papers and stamps in and have a New Year-New Stuff Party tomorrow night! YEA!!!! :)

Getting ready for Monday

2010-01-08T21:37:00.004-06:00

I'm in the process of getting ready for my New Year - New Stuff class this Monday night. Here's a couple of ideas that I've had so far. . .

Thanks for looking!

Sarah

Bonjour New Year!!!

2010-01-04T20:44:00.002-06:00

It's not fancy but its all mine :)

Welcome to the new year. I'm so excited about all the new SU! products that are coming tomorrow. I had to post something. Next Monday night we'll be having a New Year/New Product party. I'll be showing the new clear stamps, new Occassions catalog, the new Definitely Decorative items and of course SALE-A-BRATION!!!!! I'm so excited!

Clipboard Idea

2009-11-17T22:27:00.001-06:00

Some friends of mine and I have been talking about putting this together for a while. I finally got it put together! I'm still not happy with the ribbon on top but I still think its pretty cute!
Sarah

More Christmas Cards

2009-11-16T19:51:00.001-06:00

Here are just a few more cards we did at the Dasher Christmas card class last weekend. I've got some great stuff coming up with the Christmas meetings of the card and scrapbook clubs.
Sarah

Dasher Fun!

2009-11-12T23:04:00.004-06:00

I'm back, and with flair. I can't begin to describe how busy it's been around my house lately but luckily I'm getting ready for a Christmas Card class and thought I'd share a couple of the creations we'll be putting together. I hope you enjoy this little preview . . .

I really like the way this card turned out. The colors are Kraft, Soft Suede, Ruby Red and Always Artichoke. I antiqued the edges using the Soft Suede pad.

I was also happy with the way this one turned out. Colors are Old Olive, Chocolate chip, and Very Vanilla. The Designer Series Paper is from "Merry Moments".

Christmas mini scrapbook

2009-10-14T22:12:00.001-05:00

I absolutely love these little scrapbooks! They are easy to make and only take about an hour to put together. Check my prior post for the upcoming class to make your own or catch Duck Soup (www.iducksoup.com) at the Mars Hill Bible School harvest festival this weekend to purchase one pre-made.
Sarah

Upcoming Classes

2009-10-08T21:21:00.003-05:00

Now signing up guests for the October 26th Scrapbook meeting. Please contact me for more information!

also signing up for the Nov 14th Christmas card pre-payed class. Don't miss these fun events!

october card class tonight

2009-10-05T15:33:00.002-05:00

Just a little preview of what we'll be working on tonight at the card club meeting.

2009-08-04T11:45:00.002-05:00

I truly feel blessed to have so many wonderful friends who enjoy stamping as much as I do. Here is what is coming up over the next few months. Please let me know if you are interested in any of these events and I'll get you signed up.

Stampin' Card Club - Meets 1st Monday of each month at 6:30pm in the LIT conference room. This class has 15 total seats available (the first 9 seats each month are reserved for hostess members). Please get your reservations in early for this meeting, the class has been filling up early. Next class September 14.

Scrapbook Club (now signing up hostess members) - Meets last Monday of each month at 6:30pm at the LIT conference room. I am currently taking commitments for hostess members who want to participate each month and receive hostess benefits for one of the meetings. This class has 15 seats available (first seats reserved each month for hostess members). If you are interested in becoming a member or have questions please let me know as soon as possible. Next class August 31st.

Oct 17 @ 1pm - Build a Bear Workshop - $25 prepaid class: Enjoy Stampin' Up!'s newest team member "Build-A-Bear Workshop" and this adorable stamp set (in mini-catalog available 9-1-09) that is yours to take home. We'll make scrapbook pages, cards and goodies. Great class for the entire family. (**please call for additional information regarding family pricing on this event**)

Nov 14th @ 1pm - Christmas Card Class - $25 prepaid class: Make 25 Christmas cards in this fun 4 hour class. You'll have your own stamp (Dasher 116816, pg 208) to take home with you as well as 25 "ready to mail" Christmas Cards with envelopes. Bring a batch of your favorite Christmas Cookies to share with the group (don't' forget the recipe). What better way to get in the Christmas spirit?

Dec 12 @ 10am- Christmas Scrapbook Mini Album - $25 prepaid class: Make a chipboard mini album in this fun and simple 2 hour class. Have it ready to give as a gift or keep to put your own Christmas memories in.

I'm so excited about everything that is coming up. Mark your calendars now and get your reservations in before the classes book up. Prepaid class registration ends 2 weeks before the class to allow time for supplies to be ordered. If you have any questions please contact me directly. Thanks!

IMG00384.jpg

2009-08-01T17:05:00.000-05:00

So, I'm trying to do more 12x12 scrapbook pages. I figured if I was making the pages, I probably needed to have a book. Here is what I have on the cover. I'm not sure if i'm completely happy with it for now, but its a start. Since I'm posting this from my phone, sorry about the photo quality. I'll try to take a better picture later.

Thanks for looking!

Grand Idea!

2009-07-01T23:10:00.001-05:00

Well, there has been a tremendous amount of brainstorming in the deep south, today! Check out our experiment and work in progress at www.iducksoup.blogspot.com

Birthday Time!

2009-06-30T22:39:00.002-05:00

Well, it isn't a scrapbook layout or detailed card layout. . . but it's pretty important to me :)

Gentry actually helped me put together these cute little invitations for his birthday party at a local park with a train, roller coaster, and water park. He's so excited!

I'm still here. . . . I promise

2009-06-23T10:10:00.002-05:00

WOWSERS . . . I'm alive and well, I promise. . . just back at work and chasing two little ones doesn't leave much time for posting. Plus my camera broke a couple of months ago and I haven't replaced it yet, so I have no way of taking decent pictures to post for you. However, the retirement list is out HERE and the new catalogs are coming soon! I can't wait to play with my new stuff and show you . . . The new "In Colors" are so yummy! to hold you over, here's a pic of the new little man in my life. . . BBL

Spring is here, and a little more Mojo!

2009-04-01T21:52:00.006-05:00

Can you see him?

Isn't he adorable? We found him in my (needs-to-be-weeded) flower garden yesterday evening. He was so small (less than 4 inches long) and he wasn't even frightened of us. But I know better than to mess with a wild baby bunny (for his own sake). I just take it as a sign that Spring is FINALLY here!

I have taken time the past couple of days to work on my announcements and thank you cards and have gotten a little bit of my mojo back :)! Here are a couple of samples of what I've gotten accomplished.

As always, thanks for looking!

Still no full mojo, but more baby cards

2009-03-26T15:54:00.003-05:00

Here are a couple of the baby cards I'll be sending out. I love this new textile paper! These aren't the best or most unique cards but I think they are cute.

Partial Mojo

2009-03-18T22:10:00.006-05:00

I honestly didn't realize that it had been a month since I had posted anything. . . but now that I think about it I guess that's about right. The baby has finally made his appearance. He'll be 3 weeks next monday. He was 7lb and 8oz and is doing great!

I finally have gotten enough energy, time and a little mojo to start back stamping and work on the thank you cards I should have finished a LONG time ago. I'll feel better when all of my mojo comes back (and when I find my chocolate ribbon). . . but until then, this is what I have.

These cute guys are rub ons from the hostess set . . . the DP is from the hostess patterns pack.

This has got to be my new favorite out of the new catalog. The DP here is card stock weight and textured. These papers are from the pack called Parisian breeze. I'm also planning to do the baby's scrap book out of these colors (choc. chip, kraft, and Baja Breeze).

I'm not completely pleased with what's coming out so far, but hopefully if I keep working my mojo will come back in full (probably about the time I go back to work full time).

As always, thanks for looking!

Valentine & Snail Decor

2009-02-03T14:47:00.009-06:00

I've been working on a few Valentine cards for a class I have this weekend. I'm using the set Love you Much. It's adorable and so much fun!

This is probably my favorite of all the cards so far. I haven't used the round tabs a good bit but I think it fits well with this stamp.

I also like this one alot. . . almost looks like some of the store bought cards that attempt to look hand made. . .

I've also been extremely impressed with the newest Decor elements. I thought this one would be super cute in the baby's room.

Also, I'm learning to twitter . . . not sure if I'm going to like it yet. I'm not convinced it's for me. But I'm trying, if you Twitter, will you look me up or give me some tips? As always thanks for looking!

Completely Non-Traditional Valentine

2009-01-24T10:40:00.002-06:00

I have seen so much red and pink lately that I just couldn't stand to do another red and pink valentine card. So I decided to work on a boy valentine and found THIS one by Chrissyd723 (on SCS). I absolutely love this card and just had to see what I could do.

I hope you like it!

As always, thanks for looking!

No pain, no pretties

2009-01-15T14:24:00.004-06:00

I saw this wonderful card on SCS made by "Shadow Mill" and knew I just had to try. . .

It looks fairly simple from this angle huh??? Take a glance at the next picture and maybe you can see why my back and neck were hurting by the time I was done.

Each of the little raised flowers was cut (with an exacto knife) out of another piece of the same DSP. Then I attached them with dementionals. It was a little time consuming but definately worth it once you are looking at the final product!

As always, thanks for looking!

Have I told you lately. . .

2009-01-13T22:25:00.003-06:00

Did I mention how giddy I am about the new catalog? If I didn't I should have, and if I did. . . well, I'm going to do it some more. It has definately revitalized my mojo and I've spent two nights of the last 4 in my craft space getting some new cards together. At first (see previous post) I was only able to case pretty cards. . . but now. . . .

Maybe they aren't the prettiest cards, but I'm proud of them. I'm getting extremely excited about my upcoming new catalog party and a valentines party (thanks Marcie).

As always thanks for looking!

New Catalogs are Coming!!!

2009-01-12T14:04:00.009-06:00

I'm so excited about the new catalogs! I just got my copies in today and absolutely love the new stamps, papers and supplies. I can't wait to share with everyone!!!

If you live locally we'd love to have you for the New Catalog Open House next Tuesday (January 20th, 2009)!!! If you don't live locally we'd honestly love to have you too, but I wasn't sure you'd be able to make the trip :)

I've been working on some cards for the open house and here is one of my favorites.

It is a complete case from atomicbutterfly but I just completely love all that she does and besides, how could you NOT want to make a card like this?

I keep thinking one day, maybe . . . just maybe I'll design my own card and not copy someone else's work. But with so many beautiful cards out there, what's a busy girl to do???

Watch for new updates from the new catalog coming soon!

As always thanks for looking!

Projects and Pals

2008-12-18T13:07:00.005-06:00

A couple of years ago my family got together (cousins, aunts and all) to put together a family recipe album. This Christmas one of my aunts asked me to put one together for a friend of hers who wanted a copy. I have to say this was a record for me. There were approximately 40 pages in the book and I didn't have my 1" punch yet so I had to cut out each pages tabs with an exacto knife. However, I completed the entire book in about 7 hours. I was fairly proud. Just thought you might want to see what a few of the pages looked like. (Please forgive the poor quality pictures, all I had with me was my cell phone)

What wonderful online/blog buddies I have! I have definately been amazed at the online comminity's love for one another (most cases complete strangers) in the craft community! One of the first people I met when I began blogging and craft surfing was CiCi. I honestly remember some of her first cards and have been truly blessed to watch as she blossomed into a "well-known" guest stamper and designer for multiple craft companies. If you haven't checked out her blog, PLEASE do!!! She is a true inspiration for me.

And then . . . She honored me today with this award. . .

I'm truly flattered. Here's what I'm suppose to do:

1. Post the award logo on your blog.

2. Add the link to the person who nominated you.

3. Nominate 10 other blogs and add post their links as well.

4. Let those people know that they received the award.

10 blogs. . . wow, since I have been MIA lately I'm going to postpone my nominations until I have a few days off for Christmas. I'll get back you on this one :)

As always, Thanks for looking!

Sarah

Finally Time for Christmas Cards

2008-12-03T20:36:00.002-06:00

Here's my first official Christmas Card for 2009. I actually did it about a month ago and have been working on cards and books for friends and family gifts, but I just loved this card and have been wanting to share it on here for a while.

Thanks to my stamp club buddies and Lee (see here blog HERE) for the encouragement to use the glitter and "bling". I usually don't do alot of bling but I'm trying. The snowflakes on this card are done with the two way glue pen and dazzling diamonds.

And, as if I have to tell you in the next couple of weeks we'll be looking at the retiring list again. . . as if Santa doesn't have enough suprises! :)

Comments

2008-10-22T16:12:00.000-05:00

Well, so sorry but looks like I was having issues with my "comments" section on this blog and my family blog. I believe they have been corrected now.

I finally made it through my statistics class and have hit more energy now that I'm in my second trimester. hope to have time VERY soon to make some cards and post them. Sorry for my absence . . .

Be back Soon!!!!

Pregnancy Brain has Hit!

2008-09-24T12:59:00.005-05:00

Remember these awesome little books? http://sarahsstampin.blogspot.com/2008/02/another-february-mini-book.html

Well I made a really pretty black and white version to take with some other stuff to a "crafter's basement sale" this weekend. Do you think I remembered to take a picture to share on here. . . . ???? Well, of course not. I'll be working with Kelly Friday morning if the book is still there I'll try to remember to snap some shots.

On another note. . . they sent off my blood for the Quad Test on monday (please pray for favorable results, I've heard some aweful stuff about these tests), We've scheduled my "bring your DVD" ultrasound for Oct 22, and the c-section is scheduled for March 2nd. I can remember all this stuff. . . oh well. . .

Online Ordering Now Available!!!

2008-09-10T11:34:00.001-05:00

Stampin' Up! has brought out so many great new items and programs this Fall, my head is still reeling. The one that I think is going to be the most exciting for most of you is the online ordering! That's right! NO matter where you live you can now order from me online and have your order shipped directly to you! If you get an order together with friends you'll even earn hostess gifts!!!!

Go to my SU! website HERE and click the top right corner where it says "shop now".

If you need assistance don't hesitate to call or drop me an e-mail (sarah@sarahsstampin.com).

I think this tool will be of great use to many of my customers. As always thanks for looking!

A month behind. . .

2008-09-03T21:34:00.004-05:00

I know, I'm officially almost a month behind. Too much to catch you up on. . . . so I'll just show you new stuff! I'm absolutely in love with the new "In Colors (c)"!

The colors are Baja Breeze and Chocolate chip. The stamp set is called "Like it a Latte" and sorry but it's retired. I really wanted to use it though, I've got a friend who just opened a coffee shop and I've been trying to find time to put together some cards for her. The tag at the bottom right is a mixture of the small oval punch (with sentiment), the "True Friend" stamp from the new hostess set "Punches Three" and a chocolate chip piece punched with my new curly label punch.

I know its a rather simple card but I think I like it. . . what do you think?

As always, thanks for looking!

New Stuff !

2008-08-14T17:54:00.004-05:00

Well the new Catalogs are here. If you haven't see one yet check it out HERE . . . it's amazing!

Here is a card I did for a swap using my new DSP.

Also, if you are interested I have some newly retired sets for sale. You may view them HERE. More to come later about the new things from SU!

As always, thanks for looking!

Update and Annoucement

2008-08-05T14:37:00.003-05:00

let's see if one picture can just about sum it all up for me. . . . .

Sorry I've been MIA but we've gotten some news that includes morning sickness and a really tired mommy. But with the new catalogs here I promise to be back more frequently. I've got some great bargains and promotions to tell you all about and some great suprises. . . .

Thanks for your patience with me and as always, thanks for looking!

25% select retiring accessories, OH MY!

2008-07-20T18:08:00.007-05:00

For the first time ever Stampin' Up! is offering 25% off of a select group of retiring accessories. You may view the list below or download the list by clicking on the picture. I'll be ordering as soon as get an order large enough and ordering frequently over the next couple of weeks, as products are sure to sell out quickly. Please let me know ASAP if you see something you are interested in!

Keep an eye out tomorrow for the entire retiring accessories list.

As always, thanks for looking!

Fun in The Sun! NEWS

2008-07-01T09:11:00.002-05:00

Wow, Summer is in full swing and Stampin' Up! is offering more new and exciting things! Check out the newest news. . .

Hodgepodge Discount from July 1-August 10 (or while supplies last). You may purchage the Aged Copper, Antique Brass or Pewter Hodgepodge Hardware Packs (item #'s 105532, 105531, 1055150 for 25% off the regular price. Please contact me today if you are interested in purchasing one of these $27.95 sets for only $20.96!

Great Die Cut NEWS!
SU! has announced that all new stamp sets in the Fall-Winter 2008 Idea Book & Catalog (including new hostess sets) will be die cut for your convenience! How exciting is that?!?!?! Only the new stamps will be die cut; sets carried over from the last catalog and those on the dormant list will still require trimming. But, each new set will feature a die cut icon so you and your customers will have no problems identifying die-cut sets.

Also, one other thing. . . have you seen the new product line from Stampin' Up!? The Decor Elements are a wonderful line. Click DECOR ELEMENTS to learn more about this exciting new line of products.

With all these new products coming out and with the new catalog just around the corner, what better time than now to become a Stampin' Up! demonstrator. Contact me now if you are interested, I'd love to share more with you.

As always, thanks for looking!

Embrace Life

2008-06-27T11:04:00.000-05:00

I've really enjoyed this hostess set, and since it will soon be gone I used it to make my swaps for this month's stamp club. I really loved the way these pocket cards turned out.

As always, thanks for looking!

I haven't forgotten

2008-06-19T13:10:00.004-05:00

Just wanted to let you know that I haven't gotten lost. . . well, maybe mentally, but not physically. It's just been a crazy week. I have company in town, my Grandmother is in the hospital (but doing better), work is a little crazy right now. . . plus at some point I have to find time to get my stuff ready for my Escape event that is in 3 days!

You can always check out my SU! Demonstrator Web Site to see new projects and ideas.

I'll be "back" soon. . . . I promise!

Time to Say "Goodbye"

2008-06-16T12:43:00.003-05:00

Once again it's time to say goodbye!

Click on the link above to view the new retiring list. I hope to have some time to make some "Farewell" cards with the stamps that I have that are retiring. . . keep a look out!

If you have any questions please let me know. You may order from this list any time, schedule your own party or view my events calendar http://www.stampinup.net/esuite/home/sarahsstampin/events.

as always thanks for looking!

One More "M"

2008-06-09T10:39:00.000-05:00

This was one of my favorites of the monogrammed set that I did last week and I wanted to share with you all. . . . I'm really starting to like the monogrammed look . . . hum, might make some nice Christmas gifts. . . .

as always thanks for looking!

Monogrammed "M's"

2008-06-06T13:40:00.003-05:00

I made this card with a set of monogrammed cards for my hubby's grandmother. . . . I hope she liked them. I love the blue and cream together, but what do you guys think?

As always, thanks for looking!

Graduation Time

2008-06-04T23:14:00.003-05:00

I made this card last week for my hubby's cousin who was graduating high school. It sort of looks like a halloween card, but the school colors are black and orange.

as always thanks for looking!

Lovely CASE

2008-06-03T00:03:00.003-05:00

When in doubt. . . go surfing on SCS. . . .

I found this beautiful card http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/gallery/photo/621825

and had to try one. Hope you like it!

As always, Thanks for looking!

Can you do a white card?

2008-05-18T15:50:00.003-05:00

One of the challenges I tried on Sunday was to do a card with mostly white. Since I never make cards with a white back ground I figured this was a good challenge for myself. This was the card I came up with.

As always, thanks for looking!

Sunday's Challenges

2008-05-18T15:42:00.004-05:00

It's always nice to have someone/something that can help to inspire you. I don't think I've given enough credit, here on my blog, to Split Coast Stampers.com. any time I need inspiration or a challenge they've got it. So today, I took the opportunity (while not feeling well) to challenge myself. I combined a Color Challenge and Beate's Weekend Challenge to make this card . . . .

Truth be told, I did stray a little from the original color challenge. The colors were suppose to be pomegranate, old olive and pink. . . I used ruby red instead of pomegranate. Maybe the challenge police won't come after me :)

The cute little hippo is from "Pun Fun" and the DSP is from Bali Breeze. More cards from my stampin challenges later this week!

As always, Thanks for looking.

Monochromatic Thoughts

2008-05-14T22:39:00.005-05:00

I'm here, I'm here! Don't give up on me. Sorry, I've been MIA.

I had time tonight to do some stamping for the first time in what seems like an eternity. So, I thought I'd share with you all.

I thought I would try a little monochromatic card, and really wanted to do it in purple (AKA: Lovely Lilac) but unfortunately I don't have that stamp pad (yet). So I used creamy caramel, and I don't think it turned out too badly. The background is "Sanded" stamped with versamark. the large stamp is from "Baroque Motifs" and the ribbon is grossgrain eggplant.

Hope you enjoy, and I truly hope to have more time soon to catch up on my stamping and post more pictures.

as always, thanks for looking!

FINALLY

2008-05-08T22:20:00.004-05:00

Here is one of the designs that will be included in the May Project Pack. The Theme is May Flowers and the tutorial will show different ways to use these wonderful tools. As always, the price is $35, which includes tax and shipping & handling. This is a wonderful pack valued at over $40. Check out the flyer HERE.

109181 On Board Blossoms and Basics Page 178 in the Idea Book
111277 Rub Ons "A Perfect Day" Page 15 in the Mini Catalog
111376 Die-Cut Blooms Page 14 in the Mini Catalog
and over 12 ideas and tutorial for how to use these fun items!

Here is one other little preview. . . .

Mini catalog can be seen online here: http://catalogs.shoplocal.com/stampinup/index.aspx?pagename=shopmain&fsid=1cfe1ba6-a6b7-4e43-85ce-32dda59bdb4d&storeid=1038724&circularid=12510

Thanks for your patience and as always, thanks for looking!

Technica Difficulties

2008-05-08T21:45:00.001-05:00

I've got the May Project Pack ready, but I'm having technical difficulties. If I can't get it uploaded tonight, I hope to have it up by tomorrow. Thanks for your patience and as always, thanks for looking!

May Promotions

2008-05-01T13:39:00.006-05:00

What a wonderful month to take advantage of all of Stampin' Up!'s wonderful promotions!

Cutting Combo Pack Special Offer
Promotion Dates: May 1-31, 2008
Promotion Details:
During the month of May, buy a Cutting Mat and get a Hobby Blade for FREE!

Get on Board with Chipboard
Promotion Dates: May 1-31, 2008
Promotion Details: Recieve 25% off of any Stampin' Up! chipboard products when you purchase $35 worth of product (click image below for more information)

New Demonstrator Promotion
Promotion Dates: May 1-31, 2008
Promotion Details: Recieve 20% off of the new demonstrator starter kit AND a free package of hardware when you sign up to be a demonstrator in the month of May.

I'm always amazed with the wonderful promotions that Stampin' Up! offers and this month is no different. Contact me now to take advantage of these wonderful promotions!

As always, thanks for looking!

Against the Grain

2008-04-29T22:13:00.004-05:00

So. . . this is the first time, in a long time that I've done some thing that wasn't "my style" and truly loved the outcome. I also haven't done any ripping in a long time (actually I don't know that I've ever posted anything ripped on this blog. . . ).

The lamb (ewe) is from Pun Fun and the papers are from "Summer Picnic" (mini catalog) . . . which reminds me. I got news from SU! "headquarters" that the Occasions mini collection will not be ending on May 31st! The mini catalog will actually be available until June 30th. The sad news is we will have to wait until August to see our new catalogs! But, I'm sure it will be well worth the wait!

Also, don't forget a new project pack and new promotions are coming this Thursday! I can't wait to share all the new goodies with you all!

As always, thanks for looking!

Simple Kitty

2008-04-23T21:41:00.000-05:00

Another cute card using Pun Fun. . . isn't it funny how when you first get something all your other "favorites" seem to take a back seat to the new item, until of course the new wears off and you get another "new". . . .

As always, thanks for looking!

TP Challenge Winner!

2008-04-23T08:22:00.001-05:00

Congratulations to Beth, she's the only person who had time to participate in the TP challenge so Beth if you'll e-mail me your details I'll send your blog candy out. You can see Beth's Card HERE I'm so impressed with what she did, I may have to try it again.

As Always, thanks for looking!

Look ma' no ribbon!

2008-04-21T22:33:00.002-05:00

I love this little rocket out of Pun Fun . . . I've been excited about making a card using this stamp. I think this card will be for my nephew's birthday. I wanted to try and keep it simple and actually finished a card without using any ribbon! I was so proud of myself.

As always, thanks for looking!

More time to Play!

2008-04-17T23:19:00.003-05:00

My friend Christi and I had a virtual stamp night tonight and challenged eachother to CASE a card from the other's blog. HERE is her blog and HERE is the scrapbookingpage that I used as my inspiration for this card. I'm still not convinced the colors turned our right but I like it overall. . . .

The skunk is from Pun Fun, one of my new stamp sets. The background flowers are from Spring Solitude. The colors are rose red, whisper white, and basic black.

As always, thanks for looking!

New goodies and time to play!

2008-04-17T20:20:00.003-05:00

I got new goodies and time to play . . . this is what I made. . . .

This little birdy is from a CTMH stamp set. . . just too cute! I made him for a friend of mine. . . shhhh can't say who.

I made this for a sympathy card. They are always difficult for me, but I think this one turned out well.

As always, thanks for looking!

Back to my style

2008-04-14T20:18:00.004-05:00

well, a number of you have mentioned wanting to do the TP challenge but the timing is difficult. So, in the spirit of kindness I'm extending the deadline for the blog candy. You have another full week to make a TP card and link a picture to the previous post. Good luck, I can't wait to see the goodies!

Tonight I felt like I had been making so many cards "reaching out of my box" and I really just wanted to make something that felt like mine. I know that it isn't stampin up but I think this set is so cute!

This is a CTMH stamp set on SU! cardstock (soft sky, choc chip, and old olive). The ribbon is 5/8" Olive Grossgrain. The giraffe was stamped with saddle brown staz on onto SU! watercolor paper and then using SU! markers I blended the colors.

As always, thanks for looking!

Many Thanks

2008-04-13T22:47:00.009-05:00

First of all, don't forget to show me your toilet paper card. I'll be choosing a winner from the comments on THIS thread tomorrow (Monday, 4/14/08)!

Long ago I labeled myself an admitted copy-cat. I take ideas from SCS, friends blogs, magazines, and the Stampin Up Catalog. From there I tweak colors, design, layout and images to suit my taste. So tonight, I thought I'd give you a little example of this. . . .hope it's useful.

Let's say this was the card I found in a catalog (it's really not, I made it. . . but let's pretend). Not my usual colors and not completely crazy about the stamp on the bottom right. So I usually mentally make note of the design but for your benefit I've actually drawn out the template.

Here you see each element in a slightly different color. I've changed the square with the sentiment to a circle, but as you'll see in the samples below it's not a hard and fast rule, just guidelines.

Here I simply took the template and two coordinating colors, and the Delight in Life stamp set. . . pretty simple.

I mixed it up a little more here, looking for extra notions and adding the ribbon (It was driving me crazy that the other card didn't have ribbon).

For the next card, I simply rotated the card and left the layout as-is (like I said before it's just a suggestion, don't stress about getting it perfect!).

This is probably my most favorite. . . . and if you look closely you can tell that it's the same layout just rotated.

When you get in a slump, or are looking for card ideas try to view the sample cards you look at with a good bit of imagination and very little perfectionism. Don't have the stamp set, no big deal! Use one you have. . . don't like the colors? Change them! The one thing that drew me to stamping (and keeps me coming back) is that your creativity has no end. There is no right way and no wrong way. You do what is comfortable and visually pleasing for you!

Some people may not like my style, and I'm sure I've seen cards out there that I won't be copying any time soon, but that's the beauty of any art. . .

as always, thanks for looking!

Happy Purple

2008-04-10T22:36:00.003-05:00

Trying to reach outside my box. . . I like the purple and the green and I've had these flowers for a while. So. . . This is what I came up with. Here is an close-up of the flower, I just thought it was cute. :)

Hope you like it!

As always, thanks for looking!

DL on the TP & a CHALLENGE!!!!

2008-04-09T21:44:00.009-05:00

Just a little translation "DL on the TP" is "Down Low (details) on the Toilet Paper (see one of the crafts from Monday night). So, yes. . . since there seems to be confusion I decided to give you all a little more information on the toilet paper project. (just cuz I luv you all :) )

Okay, you'll need a roll of your favorite toilet paper (I haven't found one yet that won't work). It might take more or less layers for different kinds of TP, just play with it! Then you'll also need a stamp (open patterns work best), stipple brush and small bowl of water.

Turn your stamp upside down and place one sheet of TP on top of your stamp.

then, dip your brush in the water and begin pressing (gently) onto the toilet paper. The first layer requires that you be a little more gentle. Don't stress if you have a rip in the first layer, the other layers will cover it up just fine.

Repeat this process with 4-8 layers (depending on the thickness of your toilet paper and how thick you want your final product).

When you are done, your paper should look about like this (while still on the stamp). I prefer to leave the paper on the stamp over night to allow for clearer embossing when completely dry, but depending on how many layers you've used sometimes you call pull it off and let it dry that way.

When you get done, you will have embossed or textured paper that you've made yourself. This wasn't the best stamp to use now that I'm looking at this, but you get the idea. Hopefully this will help clear up some of the confusion from before. . .

hum. . . want a challenge? Try the TP technique and show me your cards. Post the link in the comment section of this post and next monday I'll choose a random number to send some goodies too! Good luck! Can't wait to see what you all make!

As always, thanks for looking!

Late night Craft

2008-04-08T23:35:00.005-05:00

I've had the "Flyin' High" stamp set from CTMH for a month or so now and finally had an idea. I new my son would love to play with these little cars and planes so I mounted them on heavy cardstock, colored them and then put magnets behind them so he could play with them on the fridge. . . .

What do you think?

It's hard to see in the picture but, the red car has jumbo eyelets for tires, the green plane has a brad between the propellers and the brown plan has small eyelets for tires. also, all bumpers were colored silver with my zigpainty pen.

As always, thanks for looking!

How much fun can you have on a Monday night?

2008-04-08T18:55:00.006-05:00

Each month on the first Monday night I have a stamp club that meets. Last night was the last club meeting for this "round" of participants. So we all brought ideas and toys from home to play with and share. I just thought I would share some of our fun with you. . . .

Paula showed us all how to use toilet paper and a stamp to make our own embossed paper. All you need is toilet paper, water, a stipple brush and the stamp of your choice. So much fun!

Ann, Joyce and Diane brought Sizzix, Cricut and other things similar. We had so much fun playing! I definately think the Cricut will be on my list to Santa this year.

Then Marcie showed us how to make these adorable ornaments.

You simply start with a clear or frosted glass ornament. Then you take acrylic paint in white and blue and pour your white in first (be generous). You have to roll the ornament around and shake it (make sure you cover the hole with your finger VERY WELL) until it is more covered with white than you really think you want. then you pour the blue paint in and contiue the rolling and shaking. Once the outside gets close to what you want STOP. It is going to keep changing for a while so don't over-do the shaking. you will not get the swirl color pattern if you keep shaking. You can then decorate the outside however you wish. We chose to make a reindeer or snowman for each member of our family. I think I'll come back later and paint our names also.

As you can see we had tons of fun ( I didn't get home until after 10pm!). Just a side note, if you live in the Shoals area (Russellville, Sheffield, Florence, Killen, etc) and are interested in a group meeting like this please let me know. I now have a few customers in that area and I am looking for a way to host events for that area, but I need to know how many people are interested.

If you have any questions about any of these projects please let me know. As always, thanks for looking!

Embrace Life, From the Heart

2008-04-07T23:36:00.000-05:00

Well, so maybe the title is a little lame, but at least the card isn't. Once again, I'm trying to get away from my normal colors and style. I'm not sure about the green piece of floral on the right, but other than that I like the way it turned out.

Hopefully tomorrow I'll have time to upload pictures from tonight's stamp club.

As always, thanks for looking!

Grateful Flair

2008-04-06T22:27:00.003-05:00

I made this card this past weekend while in "groove" mode. I love these colors and actually like the way the brown ribbons work together.

As always, thanks for looking!

How Sarah Got her Groove Back

2008-04-05T23:19:00.004-05:00

First of all, let me say thanks for the nice comments about my new blog layout. I'm glad that you all like it as much as I do. Secondly, I'm sure you've noticed that I haven't been posting very frequently lately. I lost my groove. Not really sure where it went, I'm hoping at least one of us went some place nice with palm trees, warm breezes and random little cabanas. So, in an effort to lure my groove back home I spent two weeks working on different crafts (more on that later) then today I used some of my free time to clean and reorganize my craft space.

After my space was cleaned and organized. I pulled my favorite magazine and decided to use the pictures for inspiration and try to make cards that were different from my "normal". So I left my baroque background set in the drawer and pulled out some other sets.

This was the first card I made. I haven't used Doodle this in quite a while. The colors are from a picture of daffodils in my magazine. . . . and look. . . . BLING :)

This was the second card I made. I liked the way the layers were going until I got to the stampin' part. I couldn't get the words straight which frustrated me a little but, I still like the overall look.

This was the last card I made, and by far my favorite. I love the colors and I truly think this stamp set has much better potential in someone else's hands other than mine, but I was pleased with the overall outcome.

Hopefully there will be more to come soon. Hope you like these cards.

As always, thanks for looking!

Props for Blog Design

2008-04-04T12:09:00.000-05:00

http://cutestblogontheblock.blogspot.com/

April Project Pack is Here!

2008-04-02T20:31:00.005-05:00

Well, as always I'm a day late and a $ short. . . BUT, I have the April Project Pack! You may check out this month's special by going to my website at http://www.sarahsstampin.com/, or by clicking on the photo below. Please let me know if you have any questions, and remember you still have a few days on the March project pack if you are interested.

As always, thanks for looking! (I'm off to make more thank you cards) :)

More Thank You Cards

2008-03-29T23:13:00.006-05:00

Here are some new Thank you cards that I made last night. I was so proud. I actually got about 11 cards done in a couple of hours. These were 11 different designs too. That's got to be a record for me. Here are my favorite two. . .

The background paper is the summer set from the current mini catalog.

Once again I had to use the Baroque background set. I love this pink on pink look and I think the green ribbon ads a nice touch.

Watch for the April Project Pack coming soon and remember you only have about a week left to order the March Project Pack if you are interested.

As always, thanks for looking!

Random Musings

2008-03-24T11:50:00.006-05:00

Okay, I usually don't do this but today I've got alot on my mind and decided to share with the 4 or 5 people who check my blog. So here goes. . . .

We use to have 3 small arborvitae on each corner of our house. Each spring these birds would nest in the tree on the south/west side of the house. Last week my husband took the trees down. Immediately these birds began trying to nest behind the lights on our front porch. You must understand that this space behind this light is less than and inch in some places and the bottom is a round pole about one inch in diameter. The first 3 days that they begin building we would knock down their efforts in the hopes of them relocating.

Now please humor my efforts at some not so deep thoughts. . . . But aren't we like these birds from time to time? We know we MUST build our nest. This is a necessity, but sometimes we think it must be on the porch behind the beautiful light fixture instead of the large tree God gave us. Even when the Lord knocks us down, we rebuild right on the light fixture where we think we should be be and completely ignore His attempts to move us to a better place.

I suppose we will continue this fight until they move or the female attempts to lay her eggs on this unsuitable ledge. Thanks for "listening" to my ramblings. :)

Finding Creativity

2008-03-21T22:48:00.007-05:00

I have had a hard time finding time to stamp this week much less getting motivated and finding my creativity. But, I needed a couple of cards for friends and after having the day off of work I decided to do some stamping. Here is the first card I made. . .

I was fairly pleased with the way this card turned out until I looked back a couple of posts and noticed that it is almost identical to a card I made last week. I love this Baroque background stamp and it gives such a classy look to the cards.

But I got to thinking. . . It's spring. . . . trees and flowers are beginning to bloom . . . I really should try to branch out into some spring-type colors. So, then I made this card.

It's definately not my "normal" style. But I think it's definately got the spring feeling, and it's cute! The stamp is from a set in the current Mini Catalog called Tart & Tangy. It's an adorable little set that just happens to be part of the upcoming April Project Pack.

As always, thanks for looking!

Wonderful New Specials!

2008-03-18T05:57:00.004-05:00

Its always sad to see Sale-A-Bration end, but I have to say. . . I'm so excited about the promotions that start today!

Extra, Extra Hostess Special- Dates: March 18 - April 30, 2008
Promotion Details:Host a $350 workshop between March 18 and April 30, and earn an EXTRA $25 in hostess awards!

Free Wheelin' Promotion- Dates: March 18 - April 30, 2008
Buy select stamp sets and get a coordinating wheel FREE!!!(*)

Wild for Wasabi - Dates: March 1 - April 30, 2008
Purchase a specially-priced Wild Wasabi card stock pack for only $3.95 (16 sheets of pre-cut (4-1/2" x 11-1/2") and pre-scored (at 1-1/8" and 5-5/8") Wild Wasabi textured card stock)

If you have any questions please let me know. . . I hope to have new goodies to share tomorrow!

As always, thanks for looking!

New Promotions and New "stuff"

2008-03-14T10:52:00.004-05:00

You know, getting new stamp sets and "stuff" is like Christmas for me. . . I always get excited. So, once again. . . here's what I made with my new "stuff".

This card was made using the hostess set "Spring Solitude Bundle". I don't know how I've overlooked it for so long, but it is the coolest thing. There is a stamp set AND a coordinating wheel.

Which reminds me. . . check out the new promotions starting next week! Host a qualifying party and recieve and extra $25 in FREE Merchandise. . . . also, the Free Wheelin' promotion : buy select stamp sets and get a coordinating wheel FREE!!! I'm so excited about these new promotions! Remember even if you don't live close you can take advantage of the hostess promotion by hosting a Catalog party, or a virtual party (contact me for more details).

OH. . . I was showing you what I made. . . sorry.

This card was made using the Baroque background stamp. I used 3 different colors (choc chip, close to cocoa, and creamy caramel) on the stamp to give it a more rustic look and was really pleased with the outcome.

As always, thanks for looking!

Just wanted to share two new creations. . . .

New Stuff!

2008-03-14T09:43:00.003-05:00

I love this set, but I have a confession to make. . . it's not SU! I met a new friend at the Notorious Scrapaholic retreat a month or so ago, and for the first time got to look through a CTMH catalog.

I thought this was the cutest set. So, last night I got some "stamp Time" and decided to use the set for my nephew's birthday card.

Card stock: old olive, close to cocoa, and soft sky

Ink: close to cocoa, and staz on

Technique: Pigs are stamped with staz-on on watercolor paper and given the "watercolor-look" using SU! markers and aqua painters.

March Project Pack

2008-03-09T20:55:00.004-05:00

It's time for the new Project Pack! Okay, actually I'm running a little late, but better late than never, right? Here is the information for the March Project Pack. If you have any questions, please let me know. Also, if you have any requests for upcoming Project Packs I would love to hear them!

as always, thanks for looking!

New Creations from Lee!

2008-03-09T20:48:00.003-05:00

Many of you have read my notes about my friend Lee. . . hopefully you've checked out her blog! Well today, she posted her pictures from her February Project Pack and I'm so amazed. Lee used the Simply Scrappin (r) kit Crew Kids Girl and her book is amazing!!!! just look!!!!

I can't wait to see what everyone else's books look like. . . and wonderful things you all make out of the upcoming project packs! Thank you so much Lee!

Lots of Specials!

2008-03-04T14:43:00.001-06:00

Be sure to check out the list of current specials!

http://www.sarahsstampin.com/Current%20Promotions.htm

The new mini catalog is now out and it is SO CUTE! You'll love the stamps and the printed papers are amazing. . . . and best of all you can still recieve Sale-A-Bration sets (with qualifying purchases/parties) until March 17th.

Contact me if you have any questions! As always, thanks for looking!

Easy Does It

2008-03-02T22:53:00.006-06:00

I've been noticing lately that there is a new trend to purchase ready made, store bought, "hand made cards". These cards seem to be doing well (I got a number of them for Christmas cards, almost as many as true hand made cards). The design on most of these cards are developed with time and cost in mind, but they are still adorable in their own right and I got to thinking. It usually takes me a solid hour to make one card, due to the fact that I sometimes think that I HAVE to have ribbon, 17 layers, and 14 embellishments (yes, okay, so that was exaggerating a little).

So, todays challenge/thought is to make it as simple as possible, and then go EVEN SIMPLER! I have a few cards below from my own take at this challenge. When making my own cards I also decided to focus on the Sale a Bration stamp sets. These stamp sets will be gone soon, and I'd like to use them while I still can!

This card was made using Blush Blossom Card stock and rose red ink pad (classic). The stamp set is (SAB) Birthday Whimsy.

This card was made using Chocolate Chip Card stock and ink pad (classic). The stamp set is (SAB) Birthday Whimsy.

This card was made using Tempting Turqouise Card stock and Not Quite NAvy ink pad (classic). The stamp set is (SAB) Birthday Whimsy. The "string" for the ballon is the silver chord from the discontiued holiday mini catalog (sorry, it just fit perfectly!).

This card was made using Pretty in Pink and Wild Wasabi Card stock and black staz-on ink pad (classic). The stamp set is (SAB) Merci. I used the watercolor technique for the SU! Markers and stamped the image on SU! Watercolor paper. The ribbon is Wasabi double stiched and the wasabi layer is punched all the way around. . . still so simple, yet pretty!

This card was made using Wild Wasabi Card stock and black staz-on ink pad (classic). The stamp set is (SAB) Merci. Again, I used the watercolor technique for the SU! Markers and stamped the image on SU! Watercolor paper. The ribbon is Pretty in Pink Teffeta. This is probably my favorite card out of this set.

Just another something to think about next time you sit down to make a card or two. Please let me know if you participate in the challenge. I'd love to see your "Easy Does It" creations!

As Always Thanks for looking!

Sarah

A little Bling

2008-02-18T21:22:00.005-06:00

this card was made in response to a challenge from Lee's Blog. Her challenge was to use some "bling". Since my cards don't usually have much "bling" this was a fairly difficult challenge for me. This is what I came up with. . . .

The DS paper is "Bali Breeze" and the card stock is rose red. I used 3 different stamp sets. . . Baroque Motifs for the swirly background, Polka Dots & Paisley for the word "happy", and the butterfly is from Kind Thoughts. I stamped the butterfly in rose red and then covered with crystal effects and translucent glitter. Hopefully you can tell a little more about the details in this picture.

These are a couple of other cards I made to send to my notorious scrapaholics friends as thank you notes for the wonderful weekend.

as always, thanks for looking. have a great day!

Birdhouses, Boxes and Business (part 2)

2008-02-14T23:44:00.007-06:00

This card was made using the Merci stamp set from the Sale a Bration catalog. The cardstock is Kraft. It was really simple, but I think I like it.

This card uses the main image from the same set as the first card and the background if from the boho set.

I thought the final card was going to be my favorite but I'm not sure the Wild Wasabi looks quite right with the pinks on this card.

as always thanks for looking!

Birdhouses, Boxes and Business

2008-02-14T23:25:00.006-06:00

First of all, I got all of my son's valentine milk cartons done.

All together they don't look like that much, but when I was in the middle of making them I thought I'd never get done. Either way. . . I did them and I'm quite proud (even though my son still says they are birdhouses). I was really proud of the ones I made for the boys.

Loads of love stamp set with jumbo eyelets attached as the wheels. I think the hardware ads just the right touch.

I also got a box from the UPS man today. So of course I had to play tonight. I really needed to make some thank you cards. I wasn't really in "the zone" and I don't think these cards are some of my best work. But I was able to complete 4 cards in a relatively short amount of time, so I'm pleased.

Valentine Kraft

2008-02-11T22:24:00.001-06:00

Well, I think I'm a glutten for punishment but I love the new milk carton tutorial on SplitCoastStampers so I decided to make the milk carton for my son's valentines. Yes, tonight is the first night I have started these, so every free moment between now and Thursday morning will be spent working on these darling little items. I'm thinking I should make a girl style and a boy style. . . . not sure how that will turn out in the end though. This is the one I was thinking of doing for the girls. . .

I'll keep you updated on the progress. . .

as always, thanks for looking!

Another February Mini Book

2008-02-11T18:23:00.001-06:00

Well, I made it back from the crop retreat! Oh what fun! I've still got so much to learn. . . I couldn't keep up with all those ladies. They had stayed up past midnight on Friday night, got started before me on Saturday morning and cropped well past me into Saturday night. Thanks again to the Notorious Scrapaholics ladies. They put on an absolutely amazing event! I'll definately be going back next year!

So what did I whileI WAS there? Well I made bunches of things! But for the first couple of hours I made this ( I could have done it much faster but needless to say we did ALOT of chatting).

Page 1:

Page 2:

Page 3:

Page 4:

I used the on board basics small and the Simply Scrappin (tm) kit "Tie the Knot". If you are interested in doing something like this, check out the February Project Pack.

Here is one last picture. It is a detail of the end of the book to show how the papers look together. . . . this is probably my favorite picture of this book. . .

as always. . . thanks for looking! I'm off to work on my son's valentines.
sarah

All About Me

2008-02-06T21:31:00.000-06:00

I will be heading east this weekend with my family for some relaxation and some cropping. Thanks to the girls at Nortorious Scrapaholics I will be taking part in my first cropping weekend this Saturday. They have asked us all to bring an 8 1/2 X 11 scrapbook page about ourselves. . . wow, it was more difficult than I thought it would be. But, I finally got it finished and here it is.

The background cardstock is "purely pomegranate" and the DS paper is from the "Bali Breeze" set. The ribbon is chocolate 5/8 grossgrain and a green velvet from the Ribbon Originals (tm) set "Sherbet". I'm fairly pleased with the final product. I hope it fits well with everyone else's.

as always, thanks for looking!

Please Pray

2008-02-06T18:27:00.000-06:00

I'm sure most of you have seen the news about the tornados that ripped through the south east US last night. I live in a very small town and we have had several families who have either lost loved ones or belongings in the past 24 hours. Please keep them all in your prayers.

SAB & Project Pack

2008-02-04T22:05:00.000-06:00

Just a reminder that the February Project Pack became valid on Friday (2/1/08). If you have any questions please let me know.

It's also Sale-A-Bration time with Stampin' Up! (r). Purchase $50 and recieve a SAB stamp set for free. Also earn free SAB sets by hosting a qualifying party. Contact me for more details.

Hope you have a great day!

A Good Night

2008-02-01T00:21:00.000-06:00

How do you tell when I've had a good night?

As you can see I'm a messy stamper. the table doesn't look much better. My mom and my other stampin' buddies tend to make fun of me because I've always got a mess when I get done stampin (that usually doesn't get cleaned up for a while). . . . I just noticed my fingers are really crooked. Oh, well. . . . on to WHAT I stamped.

Okay, so my friend Lee is always participating in challenges on SCS. I haven't had much time to do any of the challenges lately, but tonight. . . . YIPEEE. . . . I did :)

The first challenge I tried was a featured stamper challenge. Here is my take for that challenge.

I loved the idea of using the retired christmas simply scrappin kit for a valentine. The colors definately work. I didn't have the same stamp she used so I too the baby stamp from "Year after Year" and used the hearts from "Loads of Love". I also used "Doodle This" for some added flair.

The next card I made was for the Inspiration Challenge

I loved this challenge. I usually have a hard time with IC's because I'm a very literal person. But this time I think I did a little better. I'm using this card as a thank you note for one of my customers. The Red flowers are from "Brocade Basics", the wording ("joy") is from "Warm Words" and the partial background on the white paper in the middle is the background stamp "En Francais". The cardstock is Kraft, real read, and whisper white.

then. . . . since I had a little more time and felt like I was doing well tonight . . . I made ANOTHER card :)

when the new catalog came out a few weeks ago I immediately saw the designer papers "notebook" and had tons of ideas of what I could do with the set. I love the colors and the simplicity of the patterns. This is the first time I've been able to use it and I can't wait to do more with it. The stamps are from "Carte Postale" and the card stock is close to cocoa.

Well, that's what I've been doing tonight. Now, it's WAY past my bed time and I've got a big day tomorrow. . . . it's Job Shadow day and I've coordinated all the students that will be participating in my little town. Have a great weekend

and as always, thanks for looking!

Masculine Thanks

2008-01-28T22:47:00.000-06:00

This is the last card of my "markie's mom" cards from a while back. I've not stamped alot in the past week due to scheduling and illness. But I thought I'd share this card with you from a couple of weeks ago. I hope to get to stamp some more later this week.

The stamp is from baroque motifs. The designer paper is not SU! but the card stock and ribbon are (kraft & choclate grossgrain). I like the simple look and masculine qualities of this card.

As always thanks for looking!
Sarah

Doodle Joy

2008-01-25T11:31:00.000-06:00

Well, you always here that there are viruses "going around". And some years they are supposedly worse than others. Well this year I had heard that there was an aweful stomach virus going around. Friend had said that they were sicker this year than they ever remember being. So, I kept knocking on wood, planned a trip out of town, threw in a Stampin party for good measure, and then. . . . yep, you guessed it. . . I got the stomach virus. Not only that, but with in 12 hours also managed to pass it on to my 2 year old. We haven't moved from the couch much the past couple of days. But we are eating again and seem to have more energy by the hour.

Once again, sorry to all my Virginia friends who are missing a party this weekend. I promise to make it up to you!

I did this card last week and thought I would share. This card is truly better looking in person. I used the "Doodle This" stamp set. The flower is actually gold embossed and the dots on the whimsical background were painted with the gold zigpainty. Hope you like it!

As always, thanks for looking.

Sarah

February 08 Project Pack

2008-01-19T16:38:00.000-06:00

So, do you like the mini book? You want to make one? Check out February's upcoming Project Pack.

New Project

2008-01-19T15:07:00.000-06:00

So what happens when you take a set of the new "On Board Book Basics (Small)" (pg 179)and a Simply Scrappin (r) Kit called "Summer Days" (pg 175)? This. . . .

Thanks to my stampin buddy Joyce, for the idea. A friend of hers had made a similar book as a gift and after seeing the book at last month's stamp club I knew I wanted to make one. So armed with my tools and some extra ribbon I put together this book in a couple of hours while my little man took his nap today.

I love the way it turned out and am planning on giving to my cousin this weekend as her hostess gift, for hosting a party for me. Each of the inside pages have a space for a picture to be placed.

Let me know what you think. . . .

As always thanks for looking!
Sarah

French Valentine

2008-01-17T21:29:00.000-06:00

Thanks to my dear husband, first of all, for giving me the "night off". I got to stamp for a while tonight and thoroughly enjoyed myself. Continuing in what I am going to call the "Markie's Mom Style", I put together this valentine card tonight. I had almost sworn off valentines for a long time (especially when my first born was a boy), but this card turned out much better than I expected. . . . who knows what will happen between now and February 14th?

The words are using the "carte postale" set, the hearts are from "year after year" and the scripted background is "en francais".

As always. . . . thanks for looking!

Embrace Happiness

2008-01-16T23:34:00.000-06:00

So I went "cruising" SplitCoastStampers today for some ideas. I came across user "markie's mom". I've seen her stuff before but today I decided I was ready to CASE one of her cards. Her name is Faith and you can find her blog HERE ("Stampin' with Markie's Mom")

THIS is the card that I saw that I thought I could use for inspiration.

I'm not completely pleased with my final outcome, but it's a start in a new direction. I love her layers and colors. I've been thinking (especially with the new colors in the new SU! Catalog) that I need to branch out from my browns and greens into brighter colors. As you can tell, that didn't happen in this card. I did however incorporate more layers and more details than I normally do. Please let me know what you think.

Colors are Close to Cocoa, Wild Wasabi, and pretty in pink (textured). The stamp sets are warm words, embrace life and brocade basics. All images copyright Stampin' Up!.

As always, thanks for looking!

SNOW!!!!!

2008-01-16T16:32:00.000-06:00

That's right, believe it or not it's snowing in Bama. This is my son's first snow (yep he's 2 1/2) and he had so much fun this afternoon playing and trying to catch snowflakes. He even asked me if we could build a snowman, I had to explaing that it would take a little more snow than what we had right now.

Sorry, no card or scrapbook pictures right now, but I had to share the pics of my son in the snow!

as always, thanks for looking!

Sarah

Gift Cards (3X3)

2008-01-10T21:49:00.000-06:00

We made 3X3 inch cards in Monday night's stamp club. These are cards to go on gifts bags and boxes. I wanted to show the club that these are very quick and simple cards. You can sit down and do a few in one hour and save them for holidays, birthdays, and other gifts. The reason I thought about this is, when I wrapped my Christmas gifts this year I had full intentions of putting hand made gifts cards on each gift. . . do you think I made even one???? Well of course not, by the time I realized what was going on it was too late and I was so busy with everything else that I didn't have time to make even one. So, my challenge to all you stampers out there tonight, is to take one hour and make a few simple gift cards. They don't have to have 14 layers, or use some new fancy technique. . . just make a few cards. Put them in your wrapping paper container or closet, and then when you need them they will be ready. . . . let me know how it goes! :)

here are the ones I made Monday night.

stamp set: Brocade Basics / ink pad: basic brown / card stock: soft sky, river rock

stamp set: Embrace Life / card stock: soft sky, river rock / printed paper: Le Jardin

stamp set: Nursery Necessities / card stock: soft sky, river rock / printed paper: Le Jardin

As always, thanks for looking. I hope you are having a wonderful new year!

You're Invited!

2008-01-08T20:06:00.000-06:00

You’re Invited

What: Stampin’ Up! New Catalog Open House
When: Monday, January 14, 2008
6pm – 8pm

With a new year comes wonderful and exciting new stamps and scrapbook projects! Come see the new catalog and enjoy make and take projects, appetizers and door prizes. Please feel free to drop in at your convenience and bring a friend!

I look forward to seeing you soon.

Sarah Nelson
www.sarahsstampin.com

New Catalog Open House - Monday, January 14th from 6pm - 8pm. Please contact me if you are interested in attending. There will be door prizes, food, make and take projects, and most importantly . . . . NEW CATALOGS! Don't forget to check out my website (http://www.sarahsstampin.com/) for more information on this event and upcoming events and specials!

New Catalogs

2008-01-02T22:24:00.000-06:00

The New Catalog is Here and I'm so excited! Click HERE to view the new Spring/Summer 2008 Stampin' Up! (r) Idea Book and Catalog. When you host a qualifying workshop January 2-31, you'll get any set from the Spring-Summer Collection 2008 preview brochure FREE! Contact me today for details on this exciting opportunity and to request your new catalog.

New Catalog Open House - Monday, January 14th from 6pm - 8pm. Please contact me if you are interested in attending. There will be door prizes, food, make and take projects, and most importantly . . . . NEW CATALOGS! Don't forget to check out my website (www.sarahsstampin.com) for more information on this event and upcoming events and specials!

I've been Tagged!

2008-01-02T21:34:00.000-06:00

I've been tagged by my buddy Lee so. . . . here goes nothing!

:The rules of the game:
• Link to the person that tagged you (link is on her name listed above) and post the rules on your blog.• Share 7 random and/or weird facts about yourself on your blog, we all want to know them. (I'm not completely convinced everyone will want to know these things about me. . . but we'll see)• Tag 7 random people at the end of your post and include links to their blogs.• Let each person know that they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.

7 Random/Weird Facts About ME!

1) I hate feet (how's THAT for random!)

2) I am a coffee addict, I've been known to drink an entire pot of coffee before going to bed

3) I recently lost 30 pounds (20 more to go!)

4) I'm the boss' daughter

5) My favorite musician/actor of all time is Harry Connick Jr.

6) I am SO COMPLETELY disorganized! (really, it's not even funny)

7) My eyes change color with my mood. (green/hazel/dark brown)

Now, here's the sad part. Most of the blogs I read have all ready been tagged and I don't want to double-tag someone. . . so, I will keep looking and as I find new and interesting blogs to tag, I will post the links.

One more gift set

2007-12-26T20:29:00.000-06:00

So, I think this is my last Christmas gift. I made this set of note cards for my grandmother. I really liked how they turned out. I might do something similar for the thank you cards we will send out from all the Christmas goodies we recieved.

I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and Holiday season. I can't wait to get to work using the new items from the upcoming catalog. Happy new Year.

and as always, thanks for looking.

Sarah

New Catalog

2007-12-21T15:29:00.001-06:00

Are you ready for something new? I sure am!

The new catalogs are coming out in about a week and a half, and all I have to say is "WOW"! Scrappers will especially be excited about some of the new products, and I can't wait to play with these new items.

With Sale-a-Bration coming in the Spring and the new catalog the schedule will fill up quickly. So, if you would like to plan a home party with your friends and family to see these new products please contact me soon.

Also if there is anything that is retiring that you want, please let me know no later than Dec 27th (thursday). These products are going quickly and soon will be gone for good. Don't miss your chance!

I hope you are all having a wonderful holiday season. MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Sarah

Gift Sets

2007-12-17T23:21:00.000-06:00

I put together a few gift sets tonight. These are just note cards in sets of 10 that I made for my son's teachers.

for more gift ideas check out the "Other" Gallery on my personal website www.sarahsstampin.com.

as always thanks for lookin', MERRY CHRISTMAS!

-Sarah

Fun Challenges

2007-12-13T22:24:00.000-06:00

The past few nights I have taken time to work on cards for Christmas gift sets I am giving.

This is one of my favorites, so far. The image stamp is from "Carte Postale".

This one I'm not so sure I like the final project. My Flybaby friend Lee and I were challenging one another with color groups. This is not my normal color pallette but they look very pretty together. I may try this again tomorrow night.

this was from the first challenge Lee and I did tonight. She was looking for an anniversay card and I suggested these colors and together we both though the Wild Rose stamp set would work well. You can see her creation on her blog HERE. The second photo is an up-close picture so you can see the crystal effects on the rose.

As always, thanks for looking & MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Play time & Retirement Reminder

2007-12-12T23:25:00.000-06:00

Hello everyone! For all of those who live close to me, get ready for the weather! From 75 degrees (F) to 30. . . don't you just love this southern weather!

Please remember that I'll be placing an order Thursday (Dec 14, 07). This will be my final order before Christmas and the best time to get those last minute gifts or any thing that you want off of the retiring lists. The items on the accessories list are selling out quickly, so let me know ASAP if you are interested in putting in an order.

I got 3 more cards done tonight. Just thought I'd share with you all.

I love old olive and the designer paper went perfect with this hostess set that is retiring.

This is some old SU! DS paper and a preview of one of the new hostess sets from the Spring Catalog.

I bought the "Unfrogettable" stamp set a long time ago and haven't done a whole lot with it. But I saw a card on SCS that had the mushroom and snail done in the paper piecing and I had to try it. . .

As always, thanks for looking! Hope you have a great day!

New Pictures

2007-12-11T23:34:00.001-06:00

I hope you all have had time to look over the retiring lists. Remember if you are interested in purchasing anything the last order that I'll place before Christmas will be this thursday. Please let me know if you want to put anything on that order.

I promised pictures of my goody bags from the open house last week.

In other news. . . I found time to play tonight for the first time in a while.

This was my favorite card from tonight.

Hopefully I'll get to do more "playing" later this week. I've got some Christmas gifts I need to finish up. Hope everyone is having a wonderful Holiday season!

As always, thanks for looking!