Cottage Stamping

2011-09-06T12:26:00.002-04:00

Ok, ready for the SUPER SALE to start?!!! Here's the 411:

Starting today, the stamps offered on this site will be reduced $1 a day. It's a gamble! Buy one at today's reduction, or wait for further reduction and run the risk of the sets being gone! E-mail me at: CottageStamping@juno.com to purchase your sets. Here is the reduction schedule:

Tuesday: All sets $1 off

Wednesday: All sets $2 off

Thursday: All sets $3 off

Good luck and happy shopping! There are sets listed beyond this page, so be sure and click "older posts" when you get to the bottom.

2011-09-05T12:49:00.000-04:00

Ink Pads for Sale! *No further reduction on pads*

Almost Amethyst - $2
Brocade Blue - $2
Bordering Blue - $2
Pixie Pink - $2
Ballet Blue - $2
Orchid Opulence - $2
Cameo Coral (with refill) - $3
Blush Blossom (with refill) - $3

2011-09-01T14:04:00.000-04:00

Best Blossoms - One of my favorite SAB sets ever! $12

Fruit Stand - Beautiful detail - looks great colored or not! $12

Mini Messages - Another SAB set images with background words to match $11

Abundant Joy - Gorgeous set! Can't rave about the detail enough...$18

2011-08-04T12:07:00.000-04:00

Love You Much - $15 GREAT set for love notes, valentines, anniversary/wedding cards, and love-centered scrapbooking!

...and more stamps!

2011-07-28T11:04:00.001-04:00

Pick-a-Petal - super cute, super girly, works with the large oval punch $18

Dreams du Jour - Lovely. Can use square and round punches w/ this one - $12

Hope Happens - Love the sayings in this set! $13

Always - Another of my all-time-favs. That's all there is to say... $18

2011-07-26T16:46:00.004-04:00

Teahouse Background - sweet, vintage, adorable: $13

Beautifully detailed Floral Background - a card in itself!: $13

Define Your Life - a dictionary definition for every occasion!: $27 (regularly $47)

Fresh Cuts - lovely. classic. great words. - $13

Thursday's Batch

2011-06-30T12:55:00.001-04:00

Random collection - some curvy verses sayings and a baby buggy stamp - $7

Sweet Sampler Great texture pieces and a couple of words. Perfect if you like to bake and give away your goods! - $7

En Pointe - Perfect if you know a ballerina, and especially if you scrapbook! $11

Balmy Breezes - What a fabulous tropical set! Again great for scrapbooking! $18

Provencal - LOVE this set. $12

And yet another batch...

2011-06-29T11:34:00.001-04:00

Garden Whimsy - Great for kids, teens, scrapbooking, and ladies. $10

Friendship Blooms - Cute, whimsical, tropical. Great for scrapbooks too! $7

Little Layers Plus - Great staple 2-step set $7

Fresh Batch For the Fresh Week - Bring On The Deals!

2011-06-26T21:08:00.002-04:00

Botanical Blooms 2-step - Sweet. Simple. Perfect. $7

Itty Bitty Background - Everyone needs a basic like this! $4

Flowers of Gratitude - Coordinates w/ "Floral" background - gorgeous detail - $5

More Stamps For Sale

2011-06-23T11:36:00.002-04:00

All the Best - $8

Assortment of "friendship" sayings - $9

Stamps For Sale

2011-06-20T21:39:00.004-04:00

So Many Scallops $8 - Works with Scalloped Circle Punch

Ornament Elements - Great 2-Step $10

All stamps have been used, and as such may have some wood/rubber staining. All are in perfect stamping condition though. If you have a specific question, feel free to inquire in the comments below.

So long...for now!

2011-04-29T09:42:00.000-04:00

Hello Stampers! After much thought and re-prioritizing, I've decided it best to stop posting to Cottage Stamping for now. I really haven't had much time to stamp lately, and have felt so much guilt for not posting the few things I DO stamp. I know many of you check here often for new inspiration, and I'm sorry that's been lacking! BUT, I do not plan to shut down the site, it can still be a full resource for your inspiration...just do some searching of the archives! If the time comes when I start stamping regularly I'll be right back here sharing with you. In the meantime though, enjoy the past projects, and thank you for being loyal readers!

Spring Break

2011-04-11T07:00:00.000-04:00

Hello Dear Readers! Thank you for stopping by the 'ole blog today...YOU are the reason I write! Just wanted to let you know that I'm going to be on spring break for the week. Taking some time to re-organize, re-prioritize, re-fresh, and re-structure. Basically "renewing my outlook" as the girls of old used to say when they were headed to the powder room. You'll hear (and see!) the fruit of it all on Monday the 18th! See you then!

2011-03-31T23:57:00.000-04:00

This blog is on hold until after my sister's wedding. When I am once again in possession of my own free time!

Gay Paree

2011-03-23T07:00:00.000-04:00

At club last month we made this cutie pie Parisian card with one of my favorite color combos: Soft Suede and Baja Breeze. Love it. This is just a normal A-1 sized card with an inch cut off the top flap.

Supplies:

Stamps: Artistic Etchings
DSP: Elegant Soiree
Etc.: Metallic Brads, Sponge Daubers
Punch: Small Oval
Colors: Soft Suede, Baja Breeze, Very Vanilla

A Pillow Box of Blue

2011-03-21T07:00:00.000-04:00

I am ALL OVER these cute little baby pillowboxes for favors at parties, showers, open houses, etc. It is so easy to throw together a ton of them in just a short afternoon. Plus, if you use your embossing folders, it give it some extra easy punch! A quick tip, if I'm just making one or two, I'll use sticky strip to keep it together, but if you're going for a bunch, use a hot glue gun. Much faster, but same great hold!

Supplies:

Stamps: You and Moi
Punches: 1" Circle, 1 1/4" Circle
Big Shot Die: Pillow Box
Embossing Folder: Vintage Wallpaper
Colors: Marina Mist, Whisper White

A Touch of Wedding

2011-03-18T07:00:00.000-04:00

As I've mentioned before, I have a sister getting married in 3 weeks. SO, as you can imagine, we've been eating, breathing, sleeping her wedding "style". This card, I believe, bled out of that style that is preoccupying my mind at the moment!

Supplies:

Stamps: Nature Walk, En Francais, Occasional Quotes
Punches: Large Oval, Scalloped Oval, Ribbon
Etc.: Linen Thread
Colors: Crumb Cake, Perfect Plum, Very Vanilla, Pear Pizzaz, Sahara Sand

A Big Posy for You!

2011-03-16T13:54:00.000-04:00

Hello there (to those two of you who still read my neglected stamping blog)! I have taken a new course to time management, and hopefully will be empowered by that to be a bit more regular over here! Fresh start.

Ok, so here we go with a project from our club meeting this month. When Spring comes, I usually lighten things up a bit in the layering department, and go for simple. Here is a great example of that!

Supplies:

Stamps: Build a Blossom
Punches: Blossom Petals, 1" Circle
Embossing Folder: Antique Wallpaper
Colors: Regal Rose, Daffodil Delight, Whisper White, Certainly Celery

MIA

2011-03-06T16:35:00.000-05:00

Hello Stampers!
I'm so sorry I've been MIA lately...it's been a pretty crazy week. We've been busy getting ready to host a Bridal Shower for my sister which was held yesterday, and in the middle of all our last minute preparation, my sister is admitted to the hospital with multiple blood clots in her leg! Needless to say, I wasn't near the computer (much less my stamping desk) much this week...
BUT! All of that is behind us now, and I am really looking forward to some good old fashioned R&R: maybe some afternoon naps, uninterrupted stamp time, and perhaps a little gliding through the air on a swing. Aren't wooden swing sets so nostalgically relaxing? I feel my blood pressure lower just looking at this picture:

So that's what I'll be doing this week...if you're lucky I'll even get some pictures taken of what we worked on at stamp club this month! What do you do to relax?

pink box

2011-02-07T07:00:00.000-05:00

Here is our last project from our Demo meeting. This little beauty was brought to us by Lois. Isn't it all things sweet, girly, and pink? I loved it! This box size would be perfect for chocolate, votive candles, tea bags, nail polish, small lotions, and more.

heart card

2011-02-04T07:00:00.000-05:00

This lovely card was created by Kim for us to make at the same Demo meeting. Isn't it great?! I especially fell in love with the layer "shabby" eyelet at the end. You'll be seeing that feature again! You have to look closely, but we used the faux silk technique over the heart. Very appropriate for Valentine's Day.

Build a Blossom

2011-02-02T19:34:00.000-05:00

Here's a make and take I did for our Demonstrator Meeting last week. These colors remind me of warmer days! It uses our Build a Blossom Set and Punch. I love how they work together, don't you?

Valentine's Treat Cup Card

2011-01-25T07:00:00.000-05:00

I've only made a handful of projects with the Treat Cups, but after Connie showed us how to do the "trap door" technique at a Demonstrator meeting last year, I knew I wanted to have a go at it with my Valentine's Day projects. Here is a simplified version of my design:

I like the fact that you don't have to destroy your project to get to the treat :-). Super fun! Hope you have fun working on your own Valentine's projects this year!
Stamps: Lovely Letters + retired large alpha
Treat Cups
Punches: 1 3/4" circle, Heart to Heart, Rounded Tab

A Litte Touch of Spring

2011-01-20T11:40:00.000-05:00

Here is project #2 from our Stamp Club this month:

I thought I'd take a departure from Valentine's Day projects, to make this simple "touch of Spring" design. I also tried to include some non-pastels which is a stretch for me in Springtime! The final color combo ended up being: Rich Razzleberry, Pear Pizzaz, and Daffodil Delight.
Stamps: Just Believe, Medallion
Punch: Scallop Trim Border
Ribbon: Organza White
Etc.: Basic Rhinestones

Back at it...

2011-01-17T10:28:00.000-05:00

Hello Stampers (if there are indeed any of you who still check my sorely neglected stamping blog)! As you have noticed, I've been on stamping hiatus for the past month - just into too many other things! But, we did have a Stamp Club meeting the end of last week, and I wanted to post the projects from that. Here is card #1:

We all love to give our Valentine CHOCOLATE this time of the year, so this little pouch card fits the bill. Stamp set: Love You Much, Punches: Decorative Label, Scallop Circle, DSP: Love Letter.

Christmas Gift Extravaganza

2010-12-16T07:00:00.000-05:00

Thought I'd share some fun pics from our Annual Christmas Gift Extravaganza. I always enjoy this event and the sweet ladies who attend. It's great getting into the Christmas spirit a little early with some stamping!

Card Holder

2010-12-15T07:00:00.000-05:00

This little card holder was brought by Margaret to our Shoebox Swap, and I love that it holds our regular A1 cards so perfectly. Great, easy way to package up a set of cards for a special someone!

Silver Bells

2010-12-14T07:00:00.000-05:00

Here's a little Christmas card that I don't think I posted already...did I? It uses the lovely set "Bells and Boughs", and the Eyelet Border Punch. I don't know if you can tell, but the bells are paper pieced using a piece of brushed silver cardstock, so they're actually shimmery!

Quick and Easy Christmas Gift

2010-12-13T07:00:00.000-05:00

Here's a gift idea for those who really don't have time to make a gift. First, I printed out a little tag from My Digital Studio that says:

Poinsettias are red, Friendship is sweet,

We've been too busy, so you'll have to make your own treat!

Then, just wrapped a box of cake mix in some patterned tissue paper, and tied it all together with a bow. Here's the finished result:

Notebook Holders

2010-12-10T07:00:00.000-05:00

I've done lots of different notebook and steno pad covers in the past for Christmas Gift Extravaganzas, but this one comes to you from Jo Ann, and is just a wee bit different. You can see it features an inner built-in pocket.

A Pair of Peppermint Snowmen

2010-12-09T07:00:00.000-05:00

These are another great favor idea. Easy to make en masse and everybody loves them! Sandwiched in between the cardstock are peppermint patties. One is done using a stamp for the head, and the other is free-drawn. I've seen these guys around for ages, but Connie brought them to a Demo meeting once and while reviewing my saved pics from said meeting, I rediscovered them! You can find the bags that are just the right size in the baking department of your craft store. They're called pretzel bags. Thanks for the idea Connie!

Recycling Idea for Christmas

2010-12-08T07:00:00.002-05:00

Here is a fun way to give away your Christmas cookies! I just took a tomato sauce can (using a special can opener to create a smooth lip), and spray painted it black inside and out. Covered it with DSP, made a quick Christmas tag, and filled it with a cello bag full of cookies. A coordinating ribbon is a nice finishing touch!

A Little Carton of Merry

2010-12-07T07:00:00.000-05:00

I just love this little mini-milk carton die from SU!. This was a project Kim brought for us to make at our Demo Shoebox Swap, and isn't it so adorable? Very simple and easy to make for a crowd. Colors are Early Espresso and Melon Mambo:

Hot Cocoa Card

2010-12-06T10:48:00.000-05:00

Here's a hybrid card/gift that I designed to (hopefully) look a bit like a mug of cocoa. Can you see it?

Stamps: Paisley Prints, Baroque Motifs, Serene Snowflakes, and Teenie Weenie Wishes. Colors: Real Red, River Rock, and Old Olive.

White Christmas

2010-12-01T11:16:00.000-05:00

Hello Stampers! Today I have a very simple Christmas card idea for you. It deviates from the usual read and green, and gets some pizazz from the glitter. You could make 50 of these babies in no time:

Stamps: Lovely as a Tree, Bells and Bough - Bashful Blue Chalk, Dazzling Diamonds glitter, White Organza ribbon. Colors: Night of navy, Whisper White, Basic Gray. Here's a close-up of the glitter:

Luminaries

2010-11-29T12:23:00.000-05:00

I've been doing a little experimenting with luminaries lately. The idea is to have a vellum cutout within a cardboard "box", and place a battery operated tea light inside. Here is a small version. It's probably around 3 1/2" high. Embossed with the Vintage Wallpaper Folder, and the images are all from Bells and Boughs.

This next one I made almost entirely of vellum cardstock. Embossed w/ clear EP using white ink. The flourish is from Elements of Style I believe. Embellished w/ half pearls.

This last one again uses Vintage Wallpaper, and is embossed on the vellum with the Snowflakes Folder. Colors for all were Cherry Cobbler and Early Espresso. Here is a pic of them all together:

Snowglobe Baggie

2010-11-27T12:43:00.000-05:00

Hello Stampers! I hope your Thanksgiving Holiday was a good one. I'm just back from going out of town, and ready to share more gift ideas with you. This was something we made at our Demonstrator Shoebox Swap last month. It was brought by Jo Ann, and if I remember right, she said the original idea was from Angie Judah. I've shown these topnote bags before on here, but this one had such a cute holiday theme, I thought you'd enjoy seeing it!

...and here is a side view:

Stamps: Serene Snowflakes, Snowglobe Etc.: Top Note Die, Treat Cups, Early Espresso Ribbon, Sponge Daubers, Dimentionals

Stationary Tins

2010-11-23T10:23:00.000-05:00

Hello Stampers!
Here is our next Christmas gift idea: a decorated tin (on sale for $2.99/set of 5) with cute personalized note cards inside:

Here is a view of the inside:

Don't you think personalization makes any gift that much more special??
Prints Pattern Not Quite Navy DSP, Lovely Letters Alpha, Frames and Flourishes Stamp, Scallop Circle, and 1 3.8" Circle Punches.

Here Comes Christmas!!! - Hand Sanitizer Holders

2010-11-20T08:46:00.000-05:00

Hello Stampers! Are you ready for a bombardment of Christmas ideas? In the coming weeks I'll be sharing the gifts we made at our Christmas Gift Extravaganza, our projects from club, some cards and gifts we made at our last Demonstrator Shoebox Swap, and some things I've just been working on by myself. Yeah, I've been BUSY stamping the last few weeks...too busy to post any projects here on the ol' blog! Sorry for the wait...without any further ado:

Hand Sanitizer Holder

Side View:

Inside:

I think this was one of the most popular gifts we made. And it is so quick, easy, and cheap :-). Here are the measurements:
Cut a strip of cardstock 11"x2" (you'll get 4 holders out of one sheet of cardstock!)
Score at: 1/2", 1 1/2", 3 1/2", 4 1/2", 7 1/2", and 8 1/2"
Fold on all score lines
Cut a large oval punch out of the second segment from the bottom, like so:

Fold up, and adhere small flap with sticky strip:

It's best to insert the sanitizer from the side. These are the mini sanitizers from B&BW, and incidentally they're on sale right now for 5/$5.

To decorate, we used:
Cherry Cobbler CS
Deck the Halls DSP
Wide Oval Punch
Bells and Boughs Stamp Set
Sponge Daubers
Pearl Accents

Hope you give some of these little cuties a try!
Original idea was found on the talented Kimberly Van Diepen's site (she was Demonstrator of the Year this year, AND she's an Inky Angel! She's even got a video tutorial on this project if you need further instruction.

A Poochie Thank You

2010-11-10T12:25:00.000-05:00

Been busy working on class projects and thank you notes lately. Here is a card I made for one of our dog sitters while we were gone:

It uses Greenhouse Garden DSP, and Friends Furever as the stamp set. Brad is from the Antique Brad set, and punch is the Eyelet Ribbon. Back to the drawing board...

Christmas Gift Extravaganza

2010-11-02T16:51:00.001-04:00

It's that time of year again! Time to gather at my home for a session filled with fun gifts to be made for the holidays! The

2010 Christmas Gift Extravaganza

will be held over two days this year again to help accommodate as many people as possible. Here are the dates:
Tuesday, November 16th at 6:30pm -and- Wednesday, November 17th at 10:00am
Choose whichever session works best for you! Spaces are limited and usually fill up fast, so don't delay! As always, we'll be making 5-6 stamped/handcrafted gifts that will be ready-to-give. The cost is $25 per person or $40 per mother/daughter pair. Girls 12 and older please. If you bring an uninvited guest with you, you'll receive the same special 2/$40 rate! YOU MUST PRE-PAY FOR THIS EVENT TO SECURE YOUR PLACE! Should you be unable to attend at the last moment, I will be happy to assemble your gifts for you.

No refunds will be offered.
So sign up today and come join us for THE stamping event of the year!

A Tin Bucket - Jo Ann Style

2010-10-29T07:00:00.002-04:00

Last month, Jo Ann, a talented member of my downline, had these darling little buckets for us Demos to make at our Demo Meeting. We all LOVED them! Here is my version:

Thanks for the great idea Jo Ann!

A Halloween "Candy" Bar

2010-10-26T07:00:00.000-04:00

We're back to fall now! This was another one of our Stamp Club projects. Inside is a package of gum that we've disguised to look like a candy bar! Wouldn't these be fun to give out at Halloween, and you might even be helping to fight some of those cavities that all the other real candy is giving to the little trick-or-treaters! Win-win!

The leaf is from Paisley Prints (in the Holiday Mini), and the words are from Teeny Tiny Wishes. Background: Sanded. Colors: Peach Parfait, Basic Black, and Whisper White. Punches: Word Window, and Modern Label. Etc.: Cutter Kit (for the distressing), Paper Piercer, Brad, and Crimper.

We all need a little Christmas...

2010-10-21T23:30:00.001-04:00

Yes, it's that time folks! Time to start thinking about your Christmas cards! Here is one to hopefully inspire you to get working on your own soon:

We made this at Stamp Club this month using a combo of new sets (Northern Hearts, Bells and Boughs), and old sets (Lovely as a Tree). Colors are: Cherry Cobbler, Chocolate Chip, and Always Artichoke. Wish you could see, but there is glitter on the trees, so it is a nice and sparkly card! The square windowpane was made using the 1 1/4" Square Punch. The wreath was punched out using the 1 3/4" and 1/2" punches. Thanks for stopping by today!

Altered Altoids

2010-10-14T07:00:00.000-04:00

While working on a fallish gift for a friend, I thought I'd try and alter an "Altoid" tin to hold a set of cute little note cards. Here is the resulting outside:

I used the new DSP: Autumn Spice, some antique brads, and a little grosgrain. Now a look at the inside:

...and the coordinating cards. I mostly used the Autumn Spice, and the Day of Gratitude stamp set.

Sure was a fun little gift to make! Hope it was a fun little gift to receive for my friend :-)

A Post it Note for Fall

2010-10-11T07:00:00.000-04:00

Here is another cute little post-it note holder I made with a fall twist. The DSP is Apple Cider (from last year), and I used the Owl Punch along with the Wide Oval, Word Window, Modern Label Punches. Stamp is not SU!. You'll notice that I used the Square Lattice Embossing Folder to add a little texture to the background oval. Colors are: River Rock, Chocolate Chip, Wild Wasabi. Here is a view of the inside:

Thanks for stopping by today!

Fall en Francais

2010-10-08T00:21:00.000-04:00

This little number uses the wonderful set French Foliage from the current mini catalog. Same set as was used for the last card I posted actually! Here I've paired it with a saying from the Day of Gratitude set, and the Perfect Dots Embossing Folder. Colors are: Peach Parfait, Always Artichoke, Crumb Cake, Very Vanilla and Early Espresso.

Emboss Resist

2010-10-02T13:29:00.000-04:00

For our "technique card" last month at club, we made this:

To do emboss-resist, you start out by stamping your images in Versamark onto Glossy White cardstock. Emboss with Crystal Clear EP. Using the rubber attachment, bray over your images with desired color. Buff embossed images with cotton to remove excess ink. Stamp the rest of your images in StazOn. Colors: Cajun Craze, Basic Black, Old Olive.

Smooch Spritzed Fall

2010-09-30T17:48:00.000-04:00

Hello Stampers! This was a quick card I made in a pinch, and I'm not entirely happy with it, but it is what it is.- I DO love the new paisley set from the Holiday mini though, and isn't our eyelet ribbon punch fabulous? Colors: More Mustard, Cajun Craze, Pear Pizzaz, Whisper White, and LOTS of Smooch Spritz! Still getting used to the Log Cabin color...it sprays quite freely! :-)

A Four-Square for Fall

2010-09-22T18:40:00.001-04:00

Hello Friends,
Here is a card I pretty much cased from: Marti Smith. Of course I changed it up a bit to Kristin-i-fy it, and here is the result. This was one of our projects at our September club meeting. Stamp set: Day of Gratitude, Punches: Scallop Square, Scallop Oval, and Ribbon. Colors: Concord Crush, More Mustard, Crumb Cake, Very Vanilla, Always Artichoke, and Cherry Cobbler.- Hope you enjoy!

Shower Favors

2010-09-15T10:29:00.000-04:00

Hello Stampers! Last week, in addition to working on projects for stamp club, I was busy cranking out favors for a baby shower I helped to host for a friend of mine. The theme was Winnie the Pooh, and since I didn't have any Pooh stamps, I went with stickers. I did, however, use SU!'s pillow box die, Square Lattice Embossing Folder, and 1 1/4" and 1" Circle Punches. Hope you like them!

A Coloring Card

2010-09-09T08:00:00.000-04:00

Today's card is a simple one. I actually show it here all colored in, but the idea is to leave it as un-colored line art, and give it to a special itty bitty in your life. They won't appreciate your gorgeous artwork anyway, so might as well give them something interactive! Don't forget to include the crayons so that they can create a masterpiece of their own. These stamp sets are Awash with Flowers and Sincere Salutations. Punches: Crop-o-dile and Tag Corner. Colors: Peach Parfait, Pear Pizazz, and Whisper White.

Would you like to see more ideas here on Cottage Stamping? All you have to do is leave more comments! If I know people are regularly using my site for inspiration, then I will post much more frequently! No comments = very sporadic postings.

A Taste of Fall...

2010-09-03T08:21:00.000-04:00

It's that time of year again (finally)! Time for crunching leaves, apple cider, and pumpkin decorations! Might not feel like it yet, but fall comes to my house on Sept. 1st (90 degrees or not). So in celebration, here is a fallish card for you today:

A Little Sneaky Peeky...

2010-08-26T20:26:00.000-04:00

Hello Stampers! Thanks for stopping by today! I've been playing with some stamps lately that are about to be released in the brand new Holiday Mini Catalog (oh the perks of being a Demonstrator!), and I have a new favorite...for the moment anyway! This stamp set and DSP won't be available until Sept. 1st, but that's less than a week away. Isn't it beautiful? It's called Day of Gratitude, and the DSP is called Autumn Spice (and it's textured!). Colors are mostly In Colors: Concord Crush, Peach Parfait, Pear Pizazz, and Very Vanilla. You'll also see a Build-A-Brad and some vellum cardstock along with a little piercing for accent. Happy Stamping!

Time for Vintage

2010-08-22T18:38:00.000-04:00

Hello there Stampers! Whew! What a week...renovations on the house, and company - you know with all that, I haven't been in my stamping room for awhile :-) - Actually, I couldn't physically get to it b/c of the mess! But now there is a narrow path, so hopefully I'll be back in business soon! Meanwhile, here is a card we did at a workshop a little while back. It's vintage all the way. This actually isn't the final draft (I gave that to the hostess), but it's close. Love our new Cherry Cobbler red :-)!
Stamps: Sense of Time, Elements of Style, En Francais
Colors: Cherry Cobbler, Crumb Cake, Very Vanilla
Punches: Large Oval, Scallop Oval
Etc. Crochet Lace, Antique Brads, Sponge Daubers

70s Hoot!

2010-08-17T12:01:00.000-04:00

For whatever reason, owls sometimes make me think of 70s style! Anybody else out there? So I paired our new 2-Step owl punch (a must-have btw) with some Greenhouse Gala DSP (w/ a 70s vibe), and came up with this card! I hope you like it! Background: new Worn Bachground, Curly Label Punch, Perfect Punches Stamp Set, 1 3/4" Circle and Bird on a Branch Punches. Square Lattice Texture Folder. Colors: Baja Breeze, Early Espresso, Daffodil Delight, Pear Pizazz, Whisper White.

Tye-Dyed Buckle Card

2010-08-11T08:58:00.000-04:00

Hello Stampers! Today, I have a card to share with you that incorporates my take on the "baby wipe technique": using a textured paper towel instead! I love how it came out! What do you think? The stamp sets are "With All My Heart", and "Friends Never Fade". The color combo: Certainly Celery, More Mustard, Perfect Plum, and Whisper White. - Punches: Word Window, and Corner Rounder. Happy Stamping!

Green and Yellow Goodness

2010-08-05T09:50:00.000-04:00

Hello Stampers! Thanks for stopping by today. Here is a card we made at Stamp Club this week featuring two stellar summer colors: Garden Green, and Daffodil Delight. The paper is Greenhouse Gala, and stamps are: With all My Heart, and Baroque Motifs. Punch: Fancy Flower. Brads: antique (my new fav.! Technique you can see slightly in my background is Poppin' Pastels used in a faded tie-dye kind of way. Hope you enjoy the inspiration for today. Now I need some inspiration as I head off to prep for a party tomorrow! Happy Thursday!

Friends Fur-ever

2010-08-02T07:39:00.000-04:00

Happy Monday Stampers! Thanks for stopping by today. Here is a card made with my current favorite new set from the catalog called Friends Furever:

It's not the art quality, b/c I usually don't go for such simplicity, but I love how you can arrange this set into a million different scenes. It's SO adorable! This card was for my sister's dog Monte who let Chester (our dog) come stay with him while we were on vacation a couple weeks ago. They had a blast together! I have to say though, that I think learning how to embellish a card w/ such simple line art is going to take me a little while. This was my first attempt using it, and it came out too minimalistic for my taste. I look forward to playing w/ it more though! Here is the matching envelope:

Before I go, I also wanted to let you know that a pack of Pentel RSVP pens (that we love to decorate as stampers) are on sale for $1 at Staples this week. Hurry and get yours before they sell out. This is a great price!

Another Quick Card to Share

2010-07-29T10:37:00.000-04:00

Here's another product of my last stamping day. We're goin' all girly today :-) This uses two new colors: Pear Pizazz and Blushing Bride. Stamp set: Elements of Style

She Lives! She Stamps!

2010-07-28T13:34:00.000-04:00

Hello to those 3 of you who actually still come by my blog ;-). Sorry for the long absence! After a lovely week of vacation, and several days spent putting my new stamp sets together, I finally had some stamp time yesterday! Woohooo!!! Here is card #1 for you. Be prepared...it's busy! I love hounds tooth - and so maybe I went a little overboard on this card? Anyway, I'm lovin' the new Riding Hood Red/Basic Black/Vanilla DSP! Great combo, isn't it? Stamp set is Butterfly Prints. It's a must-have if you like butterflies (and coordinating punches). Thanks for stopping by today :-) More to come from my stamping day later in the week...

P.S. For those of you who are local: we have a few opening for visitors to our Stamp Club next Monday (Aug. 2nd). Sign up today if you'd like to come make some great projects w/ some great new products!
P.P.S. There are still quite a few of the stamp sets for sale that are listed in the post below. Check them out today, and contact me if you'd like to add any to your collection!

Used Stamps For Sale

2010-07-17T16:46:00.000-04:00

Here is the annual list of stamp sets that were left over from my Open House. Beware, it's long, but there are some great deals here.They have been reduced from the Open House prices, and I'm also offering an additional deal: *****Buy 3 sets or more, take $1 off each set*****. There are also ink pads (would be great to give to your kiddos - so yours can stay in pristine shape!) and cardstock listed at the very bottom of the list, so be sure and scroll all the way down! If you have any questions, or would like me to send you photos of any sets, feel free to ask! You know these go very quickly, so e-mail me right away if you're interested. First come, first served! Cash, check or charge.
~Kristin: CottageStamping@juno.com

P.S. I'm happy to ship stamps if you're out of town. You'll just pay whatever the actual shipping comes out to - we can look for the cheapest method...

*Friendship Blooms $9 - Set of 5 whimsical feminine floral style: a border stamp, a word stamp, leaves, a flourish, and a main flower. Combo of line and solid art. I love this set!
*Ornament Elements $12 - Set of 8. Bold Line art so you can create your own custom ornaments. Also comes with the word "Joy". Great Christmas set!
*Garden Whimsy $14 - Set of 8 solid image stamps with a whimsical garden theme: flowers, butterflies, and bugs w/ two word stamps.
*En Pointe $14 - Set of 4 charcoal sketch style art. Perfect for the ballerina in your life. Includes toe shoes, a ballerina at the barre, and a ballerina stretching, w/ a lovely dance inspired word stamp.
*Take Three $10 - Set of 6 very versatile stamps that include both the words and images on each stamp. Best Wishes, Thank You, Happy Holidays, Friendship, Thinking of You, and Miss You.
*Country Morning $11 - Set of 4 - Hostess set from this past catalog. Detailed line art is great for coloring. Includes chicken, hatching chick, flowers in jars, and a word stamp.
*Balmy Breezes $19 - Set of 7 - One of my all time favorite sets (can't believe I'm parting with it!) rough style with a tropical theme: palm trees, elephant, pineapple, and various travel ephemera.
*Please Come $14 - Set of 5 - Perfect set if you like to make your own invitations. Includes Save the Date, You're Invited, Celebrate, Please Come, and time/place/rsvp/etc. stamps.
*Fruit Stand $11 - Set of 3 - Large fruit stamps, great for coloring! Includes: grapes, peaches, and raspberries.
*Love Notes $11 - Set of 8 simple line art stamps that are all square (fits 1 1/4" square punch). Super cute sayings for all occasions. I've gotten LOTS of mileage out of this set! Oldie, but a goodie!
*Voila $14 - Set of 6. Line art that coordinates with the chef themed kitchen decor you see everywhere. Includes large chef, Bon Appetite, Happy Birthday, a cake, plate dome, and grapes/wine/cheese plate.
*Voila to Go $7- Set of 6 stamps that fill the plate on the chef mentioned above: bride and groom, pie slice, hotdog, coffee cup, turkey, pasta bowl.
*Flowers of Gratitude $8 - Set of 4. Beautifully detailed set of three flowers and a word stamp. Coordinates w/ our Floral Background stamp.
*Botanical Blooms $11 - Set of 7. 2 step stamp set w/ line art and a watercolor look for the fill-ins. Includes two different flowers w/ stems, leaves, and a word stamp.
*Provencal $14 - Set of 4. BEAUTIFUL set! Has a distinctive french style - includes: bundle of sunflowers, chicken, grapes, and castle. This is a favorite for sure!
*So Many Scallops $9 - Set of 4 stamps that coordinate w/ the Scallop Circle Punch: Happy Birthday, Sweet One (for baby), Sweet of You, and Celebrate the Season.
*Of the Earth $11 - Set of 4. Bold image stamps - word saying, butterfly and flowers, single flower stem, and bird on branch.
*Itty Bitty Backgrounds $6 - Set of 4 mini backgrounds that can be randomly stamped to create interest. Paint sploch, polka dots, solid random dots, and empty random dots.
*Polka Dot Punches $11 - Set of 4 dot images that coordinate with our Scallop Circle, Full Heart, 5 Petal Flower, and 1 1/4" Punches. Very cute. Very versatile.
*Sweet Sampler $10 - Set of 4 solid art stamps. Oval w/ the word "sweets", Enjoy with flourish, random dots, and a floral tile image.
*Best Blossoms $9 - Set of 6 - Possibly my favorite SAB set ever. Solid image stamps of: large flower, stem, berries, three flowers, and a word stamp. Beautiful, simple style.
*Say it With Scallops $10 - Set of 4 - Another punch set! These 4 coordinate with our Scallop Square Punch. Congrats, I just can't thank you enough, For You, Hi.
*Boatloads of Love $10 - Set of 7 - Nautical version of Loads of Love. Includes adorable boat, tow-behind boat, smoke puff, heart, and three word stamps. Great for little boys!
*Little Layers Plus $10 - Set of 8 - Simple, bold, line art with a touch of whimsy. Very versatile. Includes: heart, graduation cap, pacifier, flower, cupcake, gift, and two background images.
*Mini Messages $8 - Set of 8 - Coordinating solid images w/ small repeated words: Celebrate, balloon, Love Joy Peace, star, Thank You, flower, My Friend, heart
*Smitten $10 - Set of 6 whimsical bold line art - perfect for Valentine's Day and love notes! Includes: heart outline, heart scribble, frame scribble, random hearts (for background), and the words Smitten, and Friend
*Assortment of 5 Words $8: Two simple words that come w/ so much gratitude...thank you, One little baby, many happy hearts!, Wishing you love and laughter forever after, I'm here for you always, please know that I care, (all from Curvy Verses), and stamp that fits the wide oval punch: Little Bundle of Joy. These stamps will need to be re-mounted.
*Assortment of 6 Friendship Stamps $10 - Friendship improves happiness, and abates misery; by doubling our joy, and dividing our grief., Your friendship makes my heart happy, True Blue Friend, A friend is what the heart needs all the time, Thank you for your friendship. A few of these stamps will need to be re-mounted.
*What's for Dinner $15 - Recipe Card set of 9. Never used! Only the recipe card stamp is mounted, all other stamps are NUM.
*All the Best $10 - Set of 7. Solid modern art w/ flower, leaf, sparkle, solid block, line border stamp, All the Best, and three leaves with Thanks.
*A is for Adorable $15 - Set of 8 Never Used! These are excellent for scrapbooking! Includes large letter and word that starts with that letter: Giggle, Dream, Play, Friends, Love, Cherish, Merry, Adorable.

Boutique Sets: Old, rare, and fabulous!
Touch of Nature $25 - Set of 7. Large, detailed, gorgeous images! Flower w/ stem, bird on branch, butterfly, olive branch w/ olives, fern, acorn, and word stamp.
Along the Shore $25 - Set of 4 - very rare, and very popular. Nice drawing style w/ Adirondack chair in grass w/ clouds, seagulls border stamp, set of three shells, and a lovely poem.
Changing Seasons $25 - Set of 4 large stamps. Wonderful detail with covered bridges in each of the 4 seasons. Very popular, and makes great sets of cards (or coasters) to give as gifts!
Echoes of Kindess $20 - Set of 4 large stamps. Whimsical sketch style includes, verse, rose, freesia, and delphinium.
Abundant Joy $25 - Set of 7 large stamps. Beautiful detailed art. Includes: hydrangea, rose, flax, blueberries, and mistletoe. Two word stamps as well.
Beautiful Beach $25 - Set of 7. My favorite ocean themed set. Great bold detail includes large: starfish, conch, snail, and clam shells. Two word stamps, and a shell/sand border set. Perfect for scrappin' those beach photos!

Going My Way Jumbo Wheel (lots of solid fish) $3.50

*Many Marvelous Markers (full set of 48 w/ box) $55
*Port-a-Trace Light Box $25

Colors:
Ink pad with refills $4 ea.:
Cameo Coral - bright vibrant coral
Blush Blossom - soft flesh color

Ink pad without refills $3 or 2 for $5:
Almost Amethyst - very light bluish lavender
Only Orange - classic orange
Barely Banana - very pale yellow
Glorious Green - bright, deep, vibrant kelly green
Gable Green (coordinating cardstock-see below)- light pastel mint green
Dusty Durango - gorgeous, deep rust - perfect for fall!
Orchid Opulence (coordinating cardstock)- pinkish lilac
Ballet Blue - bright mid-toned blue-bird blue - just like your little girl's first ballet leotard
Brocade Blue - muted country blue
Pixie Pink (coordinating cardstock) - bright, happy, summery pink!
Bordering Blue - blue-gray

Cardstock:
Varying amounts including scraps

Gable Green $1.15
Taken with Teal .25
Orchid Opulence $1.15
Pixie Pink $1.65

Welcome Tri-Fold Card

2010-07-14T11:20:00.001-04:00

Hello Stampers! Well, let me be completely honest. I have had no motivation to stamp the past couple of weeks knowing that a brand new shipment of goodies was arriving TODAY! Who wants to use old stuff when you have new stuff around the corner? Not me. SO, that's why I haven't had a ton of projects to share with you - plus, you've all been busy vacationing, right? Here is one that hasn't made it to the blog yet though. I love the fold (which I copied from the Creative Stampers Newsletter I receive) - and I designed this to be a card for a friend who just welcomed a baby boy into their family. Very minimal stamping, just DSP and punches. Hard to photograph so that you get the idea of how it opens, but here goes:

Punch is: 2-Step Bird - DSP: Bella Bleu - Stamps: Warm Words - Colors: Crumb Cake, Brocade Blue, Very Vanilla.
Thanks for stopping by, and happy stamping! Off to watch for the man in brown :-)

Father's Day Card

2010-07-08T06:51:00.000-04:00

Hello Ladies! Thanks to all who came to my Open House and made it a success! I hope you enjoyed yourself. There was a card that was made and left here that day...anybody claim it?I know it's ages past Father's Day, and I thought I had posted this card, but didn't see it in my archives. So here ya go:

This used the colors Pacific Point and Kiwi Kiss. The set is called Along the Shore, and it's one of my favs. However, it is for sale for $25, let me know if you're interested. The words are from Teeny Tiny Wishes, and the punches are as follows: Modern Label, Word Window, and Ticket Corner.- Hope you're all enjoying your week so far. I'd love to hear some feedback on what you think of the new catalog!

IMPORTANT OPEN HOUSE INFO & A Little Sneak Peek...

2010-07-02T14:23:00.000-04:00

So yes, it's true...I've been playing with and enjoying products from the new catalog long before you ever knew they existed. Ahhh...the perks of being a Demonstrator! However, I wasn't going to be a meanie by posting some of my cards just to make your mouth water over all the new stuff when you weren't able to buy it! Now though:

WELCOME TO THE NEW CATALOG!!!!

To say that I love it, is an understatement. I'm more thrilled than ever to be a part of the Stampin' Up! Family!

Here are a couple of my creations:

This uses my new favorite color: Marina Mist. Love it with white for summer! It also uses a new stamp set called: Friends Never Fade. We're going to use that set for the make and take at the Open House on Monday. You'll get to make a cute retro-style card with it!

This one uses an old retired set that was one of my all-time favs. BUT, it uses a brand new color combo that I'm hooked on: Cherry Cobbler and Early Espresso. Just love that rich lipstick red - it's gonna be fabulous for fall and Christmas too...

Ok, now for the Open House info:

If you're planning to attend, we're going to be doing things a little bit differently this year parking-wise:

*If your time schedule is a bit flexible, please park at the Stewartsville Library where we will be having a shuttle car running constantly to and from 5-6:30pm. If you arrive, and it's not yet there, just wait, and it will return shortly. If you arrive after 6:30 (or if you only have a short amount of time to run in and run out of the Open House), you are free to park at my home. The shuttle will be available to take you back to your car whenever you are ready.

*The Stewartsville Library is located on the opposite side of Route 24. You turn LEFT directly after Cascade Gardens (if you're coming from Roanoke) and take the first right into the library parking lot.

I'm off to cut out some more make and take supplies for you! Can't wait to see you on Monday! Oh, and you have until tomorrow (Saturday) to RSVP if you haven't already.

A Busy Flower

2010-06-26T09:17:00.000-04:00

Happy weekend! Here is a creation that was vetoed for use in party settings. Seems it was too busy. Yeah, I guess I agree, but I still like it. It was a spin off from a card in our Demo-only magazine. I love yellow and black together, don't you? This uses Bella Toile, and En Francais, along with Teeny Weeny Wishes for the stamps. The Big Shot Die is Daisies #2 I believe. Also used some dimentionals to pop up the layers of the flowers. Colors: Basic Black, Kraft (now Crumb Cake), and So Saffron. Hope you get to enjoy some stamping this weekend! Thanks for stopping by...

Summer Sparkle

2010-06-23T10:49:00.000-04:00

Hello Stampers! Today, in lieu of a Color Dare card, I have a slice of summer to share with you. Time to bring my old reliable Tart and Tangy stamp set out from its seasonal resting place! Now if any of you out there don't yet own this set, pick up the phone right now to order it! It will become your "little black dress" of stamping in the summertime! I would certainly categorize this card under "beginner" as far as skill level, but because of the various punches and colors involved, it does take a little extra time to make. Not bad though - Here are the stats:
Stamps: Tart and Tangy, Warm Words
Punches: 1 1/4" Circle, 1 3/8" Circle, Large Oval, Small Oval
Folder: Square Lattice
Colors: YoYo Yellow, Only Orange, Green Galore, Basic Black, Whisper White
Etc.: Silver Brads, Crystal Effects, Dazzling Diamonds Glitter

Hope you enjoyed this little inspiration! - To respond to a couple of questions left on my comment forms:
*To get the more pronounced embossed polka dotted background, use an impressions folder, not a texture plate.
*On the paper-piercing - yes, it was random little groups of three here and there.

Thanks for stopping by! Happy Stamping...

4th of July Crackers

2010-06-19T09:08:00.000-04:00

Here's a project to get you in the mood for the 4th of July! Hosting a BBQ? This would be the PERFECT favor! They look so cute all bunched in a basket... The project itself is pretty self explanatory - just stamp, glue, and roll around a roll of breath mints. Very practical gift indeed :-). Stamp set is: Wanted, and colors are: Real Red, Brocade Blue, Whisper White, and Chocolate Chip. Hope you're enjoying your weekend - thanks for stopping by today for some stamping inspiration!

Color Dare #72

2010-06-16T17:25:00.000-04:00

Hello Stampers! Well, first of all I was having a distracted day apparently when I was trying to create this Color Dare Card for this week. For some reason I thought we were supposed to use PALE Plum, instead of Perfect Plum. Goofed on that score. Then, the first card I made was absolute rubbish. I was about to hang up my stamping apron after this one. Yuk! Mojo was gone. Creative Juices were NOT flowing. Thought I'd show it to you though so you can feel good when you have "dud" days too:

It only deserves a little picture. :-)

K, then I left my room, and came back later that day with the intent of creating something sweet, simple, clean lined, and romantic. Out popped this:

Whew! I CAN make something that's not fit for the garbage bin. Sigh of relief. Thank goodness! I'm quite happy w/ this card. It kinda vintage, kinda trendy, with a little bling. That's me (inside anyway)! Hope you enjoy the combo for this week: Elegant Eggplant, Baja Breeze, Whisper White, and Perfect Plum (or Pale Plum if you're me ;-)).

Colors of the Sea

2010-06-15T10:20:00.000-04:00

This is project #2 from our June Stamp Club. Back to my color comfort zone here: Brilliant Blue, Sage Shadow, Going Grey, and Whisper White. Punches: 1/2" Circle, Word Window, and Modern Label. Stamp set: True Friend (this one's retiring, so get it while you can!) - embossing folder: Lattice. Hope your day includes some stamping time! Thanks for stopping by...

Shades of Summer

2010-06-12T09:59:00.000-04:00

Happy Weekend Stampers! Here is a card that we made at Stamp Club Monday. It is WAAAYYYY outside my color box, but I think the combo is perfect for summer. Don't you? We used: Dusty Durango, Only Orange, and Yoyo Yellow w/ a little Gable Green for the stems and leaves. The stamp set is "Bloomin' Beautiful" (which is on the discontinued list btw.), and the ribbon is black gingham (which is also on the discontinued list). The wonderful background is the new Lattice Folder from the Summer Mini. Everyone is fawning over this! Definitely add it to your must-have list.- Hope you enjoy this quick and simple inspiration!

Color Dare #69

2010-06-08T21:30:00.000-04:00

Hello Stampers! Here is your Color Dare installment for the week! Our challenge was to use: Old Olive, Ruby Red, Cameo Coral, and Very Vanilla. Here is my result using Vintage Labels, Pick a Petal, and the following punches: 1 1/4" Square, Scallop Square, Curvy Label, 2 Step Bird. Hope you enjoy!

The Discontinued List

2010-06-03T06:32:00.005-04:00

Hi Stampers!
      I know I haven't been around much (maybe in the summer I'll have more time for stamping!), but if anybody still visits this little blog anymore, I wanted to let you know that the Discontinued Lists are out! You can find them by clicking on the links to the right. - SU! is also offering a wonderful deal on the Starter Kit. You can purchase a "Mini Kit" for only $99 this month! That includes a full box of ADDITIONAL brand new catalogs in July. It's a great deal! Let me know if you're interested in joining our family of Demonstrators. ~
     Hopefully I'll see you back with some projects soon! If you still do stop by every now and then (thank you for being a loyal reader even during my lull), leave me a note and let me know that you did. It makes it hard to want to take the effort to post projects, when I don't think anybody ever stops by! If you're out there (but just a ghost who doesn't leave comments), let me know!

     Have a wonderful Thursday...

Color Dare #68

2010-05-26T06:51:00.000-04:00

Hello Stampers! May is almost drawing to a close, and with any luck, that will mean that I will have a little more time for stamping on my hands SOON! In the meantime though, here is another Color Dare Wednesday for you. Our colors were: Rich Razzleberry, Soft Suede, Crushed Curry, and Old Olive. As you can tell, I started this card (which was the design for my Mother's Day cards) and just couldn't find a place for the Crushed Curry without it sticking out like a sore thumb, but at least I've got 3 out of 4, right?

The stamp set is Soft Summer (which I'm hoping will be in the new catty!), and you'll see I also used the Ticket Corner Punch and the Polka Dot Soft Suede Ribbon. Happy Memorial Day Weekend to all! I hope it brings you lots of cookouts and stamping time :-)! Don't forget to check out what the rest of the Design Team did with these colors.>>>>>>>>>>

Color Dare #67

2010-05-19T08:39:00.000-04:00

Happy Color Dare Day Stampers!

This week, we had the colors: Bermuda Bay, Elegant Eggplant, Old Olive, and Melon Mambo to play with. I have to say that I cheated a little and didn't use the Melon b/c I was in need of a birthday card for hubby, and I knew he'd be offended if there was any remote shade of pink color on his card! Ha! So here is the result using Sanded, Wonderful Words, and hmmm....I can't remember what that old shell set is called. Anybody?

Neutral Butterflies

2010-05-14T07:16:00.000-04:00

Hi Stampers! Here is a card that we made at stamp club this week entirely using the neutral color family, with a pinch of blue for accent. I saw the idea in our Stampin' Success (demonstrator) magazine, and just loved it! The words are from Pocket Silhouettes, and we used some new Smooch Spritz in Vanilla (love that stuff)! The butterflies were cut out using the Beautiful Wing Embosslit Folder, and the sweet little tag is from the Vintage Tag pack in the new Summer Mini. - Colors are: Crumb Cake, Early Espresso, Confetti Cream, Sahara Sand, and Bashful Blue. Hope you are inspired to try some neutrals with your creations today!

Color Dare #66

2010-05-12T07:00:00.001-04:00

Hello Readers! Thanks for stopping by today. I know I've been MIA! Life has kept me super busy (and will until the end of the month) and away from my stamping desk. :-( BUT, I did do some stamping one day last week, from which you will see the fruits over the next several posts. - First up is this little card I made for my sister's ~~boyfriend~~ fiance' (YES! My little sis got engaged this weekend!!!) who had a birthday on Saturday. My sister loves yellow rain boots, so I had to include them somewhere on the card! It uses Branch Out and Whimsical Words. Colors for our Color Dare this week were: Crushed Curry, Soft Suede, Old Olive, and Bashful Blue. Nice combo - worked well for what I needed to make too! Be sure and check out what the other Color Dare Designers came up with using the same colors. Happy stamping to one and all...

A Masculine Birthday

2010-05-01T09:32:00.000-04:00

Here is a card I made recently for my father in law's birthday. It's always harder for me to come up with masculine designs, but I do adore this paper (retired SU! DSP). Hope you're all having a great weekend!

and here's the inside...

...off to go have some Saturday fun!

Color Dare #65

2010-04-28T07:38:00.001-04:00

Happy Wednesday to all! Our colors this week were a challenge - totally not "me"! I did survive however, and am fairly pleased with the result. This uses a stamp set from the upcoming catalog, so this is a "sneak peek" at Awash with Flowers. I also used some of our new "Smooch Spray" for the first time, but it wasn't quite as dry as I thought it would be, and as you can see, it blurred the flower image on the left a little. See I'm looking out for you by making the mistakes so you don't have to ;-) I would recommend keeping your Smooch Spray a good distance from your project, and barely misting. - Anyway, our colors this week were: Ruby Red, Kiwi Kiss, Baja Breeze, and Pumpkin Pie. - Be sure and check out what our other designers did with this combo by clicking on their names to the right. - Happy Stamping!

Au Chocolat Notepad

2010-04-23T08:28:00.000-04:00

I don't think I've posted this yet, have I? Just a little notebook covered in my hoarded stash of Au Chocolate DSP, which means that I'm trying really hard to un-hoard it :-) Great gift idea - or just something to bring a little sunshine to your own everyday life!

Color Dare #64

2010-04-21T08:53:00.000-04:00

Welcome back to the Color Dare Wednesdays! Our colors today were very soothing and gender-neutral I think: Old Olive, Certainly Celery, Very Vanilla, and a pop of Summer Sun. I decided to take it to the girly side (don't I always?), and use Baroque Motifs. The words are from an old hostess set called God's Beauty. Hope you enjoy the inspiration! Have a great Wednesday, and thanks for stopping by. Don't forget to check out what the other designers have done with this color combo. You can see their names listed on my side bar. Happy Stamping!

A Top Note Pouch

2010-04-19T13:21:00.000-04:00

Hello Stampers! The idea for this Top Note Pouch was courtesy of Connie. I just fell in love with this concept when I saw the cute version she made.- My version however, had to have a bird (of course), so I pulled out Friends 24/7, and a color scheme from my Color Book: Rose Red, Bermuda Bay, Old Olive, and Very Vanilla. What do you think?

A Chirp of Summer

2010-04-15T11:52:00.000-04:00

Here's a summery card for you that was inspired by the contest winning card by Teresa Payne-Neal. I changed up the colors and feel, but just love her idea for the roof here, don't you? This was a card we made at stamp club this week, and I just think it's TOO cute (I can say that b/c I'm not the designer ;-)) Hope you're all having a wonderful day! Thanks for stopping by!

Wedding Season

2010-04-12T09:14:00.000-04:00

Wedding season is almost upon us, and so I thought I'd share a wedding card idea w/ matching envelope. I think it's always fun to coordinate the card you make with the colors of the wedding party! Special touches go a long way! Hope you're having a wonderful stamping day...

Sweet Vintage

2010-04-09T22:02:00.000-04:00

This card is another blast from the past. Couldn't be more simple - reminds me of an old-fashioned dress for some reason! Even though some of the elements are discontinued, hopefully it will still be of spring inspiration to you!

Deja Vu

2010-04-07T22:48:00.000-04:00

Sorry I've been MIA lately! My poor stamping desk has been quite neglected...it's an incredibly busy time of year for my family, and hobbies get pushed to the back burner.- SO, since you're used to a post from me on Wednesdays (which is usually Color Dare Day -we're off for Spring Break this week btw.), I thought I'd re-post a card I made a long time ago! Figured you'd have forgotten it by now if you'd already seen it anyway. :-) It uses the stamp set Baroque Motifs (still one of my favs), and the color scheme of Apricot Appeal, Groovy Guava (retired), and Elegant Eggplant with Very Vanilla. Hope you've had more stamping time than I have lately! Thanks for stopping by today.

Lavender's Blue

2010-04-03T09:40:00.000-04:00

Happy Weekend Stampers!
Well, I warned you that it would be a busy non-stamping week, and I was right :-(. Here is a quick card to share with you though. I made it for a Demonstrator swap last week.

Our theme was Mother's Day, and since I didn't have any stamps that said "Happy Mother's Day", I went with the "devotion" stamp from Herb Expressions and words from Curvy Verses. This is a sliding belly band card, so the Kraft Section actually comes off. I used the Wide Oval Punch, and destresser, a couple of Vintage Brads, and some linen thread to tie it together in the back. Colors are: Kraft, Certainly Celery, Orchid Opulence, Confetti Cream, and Chocolate Chip.

Hope you all have a wonderful Easter Weekend!

Color Dare #62

2010-03-31T07:51:00.000-04:00

Happy Wednesday Everyone! Thanks for stopping by! This week we had the colors: Ruby Red, Baja Breeze, and Whisper White to work with.- When I saw that line-up, I didn't want to go "patriotic", so I added a little black to help that (which we are allowed to do since it's a neutral). I used the hostess set: Asian Artistry, and then the words are from Baroque Motifs. Ribbon is Black and White Gingham with Vintage Brads for accent. Punch list: Corner Rounder, Designer Label, Small Oval, and 1" Circle. Be sure and check out what the other designers have done with this challenge! Have a great day...

A "Tammy" Card

2010-03-28T16:21:00.000-04:00

Hi Readers! Thank you so much for your kind comments on my last card! I often wonder if anybody stops by to see my creations, and it's nice to know that every now and then some of you do! I haven't had any time to stamp this past week as I've been sick and out of town. This coming week isn't looking too promising either. Maybe I'll post some old favorites for you to revisit during my stamping hiatus! Anyway- to this card. I did a workshop for Tammy a couple weeks ago, and she requested that I demo a card that was quick and easy to make a quantity of and/or could easily be made into sets for gift giving. Here is my answer to her requests. It uses Only Ovals (which is a perfect stamp set to use when you're making a set of cards for someone), Bella Blue DSP, and the colors: Brocade Blue, Kraft, Rose Red, and Very Vanilla. The punches are: Large Oval, Corner Rounder, and Scallop Oval, and I added a little brad and some dimentionals for interest.- Hope you're all enjoying a lovely weekend!

Color Dare #61

2010-03-24T07:00:00.001-04:00

Happy Color Dare Day! This week our inspiration photo was really simple with modern lines, so I went with lots of layer for color, and no *gasp* patterns for my card. Our colors were: Green Galore, Pretty in Pink, and Basic Black. This adorable stamp set is called Peace Within. You have no idea how hard it was to NOT color the whole thing in! But I think just leaving the orchid as the focal point worked for my modern theme. These colors make me happy it's Spring! How about you?

Fluttering By!

2010-03-21T17:02:00.001-04:00

Hello Stampers! Thanks for stopping by today. I have a pink and brown confection to share with you that was a make and take at a recent workshop. We "pieced" the butterfly using the Sending Love DSP to use as the focal point. I was inspired by Shelli's blog to try this technique - it sure makes a cute butterfly and is quick and easy! Trail was made with some Crystal Effects and Dazzling Diamonds, and antennae are little pieces of Linen Thread. Don't you love the scalloped look layered? It's so very girlie! The Word Window Punch and Teeny Weeny Wishes give us our little saying at the top, and the 1 3/8" Square Punch finish out the list. Colors: Chocolate Chip, Pretty in Pink, Very Vanilla. Hope you enjoy this Springy card!

PS- Yesterday, I was featured on a neat site called Blog Finds of the Day. (woohoo!!) You'll find some really neat project inspirations on there. Go check it out!

A Carrot for Easter

2010-03-19T07:00:00.000-04:00

I made this carrot for a stamping class I had Monday, and thought it would be perfect to add to your Easter table this year! Can't you see one on every plate with names on the tag instead of "Happy Easter"?! - It's quite simple...you could make a whole garden full in an hour. The body is made with the Bigz Scallop Circle Die, and the little "leaves" are just three scalloped ovals. Little tag was punched w/the large and small ovals, and the words are from Teeny Weeny Wishes. Filler is just Certainly Celery DSP crimped and then sliced into fine shreds. Colors: Certainly Celery, Pumpkin Pie, Apricot Appeal, and Whisper White. Happy Friday!

Color Dare #60

2010-03-17T07:00:00.000-04:00

Happy Color Dare Day! Our colors this week were pure Summer (which I'm not quite ready for - Long Live Spring!). So I wanted my card to look fun, but not too cutesy. Here's the result. I think I'm happy w/ it, except for some reason I think the flower kind of came out looking like a palm tree *chuckle*. The flower is from 5th Avenue Floral, and the words are non-SU. Colors are: Real Red, Tempting Turquoise, Gable Green, and More Mustard (yes, it's in there...look hard). Punches: Eyelet Border, Scallop Oval, and Large Oval. Delicate Wings Embosslit, Polka Dot embossing folder, and some SU! rub-ons for the white polka dots and border. Hope you enjoy it! Thanks for stopping by...

Are you looking forward to summer?

A Spring Basket

2010-03-15T11:47:00.003-04:00

Happy Monday Stampers! Today I have our last March club project to share with you: a sweet little Easter basket!

We used all different pastels on this one: Certainly Celery, Bashful Blue, So Saffron, Regal Rose.- You'll see the Bird XL Punch, along with some DSP from the SAB Neigbor-to-Neighbor Stack. The little words are from Teeny Weeny Wishes (of course), and there are some Vintage Brads holding the whole thing together. If you'd like measurements, just leave me a comment! (OR just leave me a comment to say "thanks for posting your stamping ideas, I like to come by and check them out every now and then" (fishing,fishing) ;-)) The best part of this little project?:

It holds three little Cadbury eggs perfectly! Thanks for stopping by - only 5 days left 'til spring!!!

The End of the Rainbow

2010-03-12T07:57:00.000-05:00

Here is a little St. Patty's Day cheer for you! We made this card at club last week using some punch art and the baby wipe swipe technique to create the rainbow. I saw this card on a video on Stampin' Connect, and then when I went back to find it, I couldn't. So sorry the correct credit for this CASE isn't here.- Anyway, you use quite a few punches: 1 3/4" Circle, Scallop Circle, Word Window, Modern Label, and Tag Corner. The colors are: Garden Green, Basic Black, Brushed Gold, Whisper White, Night of Navy, So Saffron, and Ruby Red. Words are from Teeny Weeny Wishes, and the heart (to make the shamrocks with) is from Cheep Talk. - Hope you all have a wonderful stamping weekend!!!
Do you celebrate St. Patrick's Day? If so, how?

Thanks for stopping by Cottage Stamping today.~

Color Dare #59

2010-03-10T08:25:00.002-05:00

Good Morning Readers, and Happy Color Dare Day! I loved the colors for this week: Chocolate Chip, Certainly Celery, and Tempting Turquoise.- they were right up my alley so no stretch here :-). At the time I made this, I was toying around with some Celtic designs, and this was one of the results. I used the Lattice Bigz Die (which I love), and the center is from Circle Circus. Very clean lines, but I think that typifies the Celtic style - don't you? What are you working on for St. Patty's Day? Thanks for stopping by - leave me a quick comment and let me know you did :-)

Easter Inspiration

2010-03-09T08:19:00.000-05:00

Hi Readers! Thanks for stopping by Cottage Stamping today. Last night was Stamp Club, and I sure enjoyed spending time with those ladies (as usual). They're a treat!

Here is the first project we made there:
We used the shaving cream technique for the paper behind the cross (the swirling marbled look). The flourish is from Baroque Motifs, and the rest of the stamps are from Refuge and Strength. You'll see a little Certainly Celery ribbon poking out, and some brads to finish it off. Colors: Certainly Celery, Blush Blossom, Whisper White, and Basic Gray.

Hope this inspires you to get designing on your Easter cards! It's not too early :-)

A Rose by Any Other Name...

2010-03-08T08:13:00.000-05:00

Happy Monday Readers! Thanks so much for stopping by.~ Today, since I haven't done much stamping lately except for working on class ideas (which I can't post until after the classes), I thought I'd show you what I have been working on! I've recently joined the ranks of those obsessed with using the Big Shot for fabric! It's so great ladies...you've GOT to try it! This is a flower brooch made with the Flower Folds Die. I love this toile fabric - it's a bit heavier than most, and I like working with texture for these flowers. I'm into making flowers to sell them (see my shop HERE), but think of the gift possibilities when you purchase this die! My friends will know what to expect for their birthdays this year :-)

Hope you all have a wonderful start to your week. Stamp Club is tonight, so check back soon to see what projects we made!

A Brown and Blue Butterfly Card

2010-03-05T11:44:00.000-05:00

Wow I was into original titles today, huh? :-) Well, here's a card I did this week using an old hostess set and those lovely Whimsical Words again. I've been making lots of fabric flowers lately, and my die cuts out a huge size automatically that I rarely use for the flowers themselves, so I am trying to find different ways to use them. Here is one! Need to find better adhesive for fabric-cardstock though (that holds tight, but doesn't ripple). Any ideas? Colors are Baja Breeze, Chocolate Chip, Apricot Appeal, and Whisper White. Hope you enjoy!

Tammy - yes, the last card was stamped first, then embossed
Connie - no, I haven't gone all digital in my scrapbooking! I actually use MDS mostly for things other than (just made an invitation w/ it you can see on Windy Poplars) - but maybe one day :-)

Thanks for your comments and for stopping by!

Color Dare #58

2010-03-03T14:37:00.000-05:00

Happy Wednesday Everyone! Color Dare Day brings us the combo of: Regal Rose, Tempting Turquoise, Certainly Celery, and Whisper White to work with. I saw a card like this on the Creative Stampers website, and thought it looked like something you could make a bunch of in a hurry and with not many supplies. So I gave it a try with the colors for this week, Vintage Vogue, and Whimsical Words. Here is the result! A little busier than my usual style, but it sure reminds me of the coming warm weather (maybe a pattern you'd find on a bathing suit). How about you?

Cottage Stamping

...and more stamps!

Thursday's Batch

And yet another batch...

Fresh Batch For the Fresh Week - Bring On The Deals!

More Stamps For Sale

Stamps For Sale

So long...for now!

Spring Break

{{Pause}}

Gay Paree

A Pillow Box of Blue

A Touch of Wedding

A Big Posy for You!

MIA

pink box

heart card

Build a Blossom

Valentine's Treat Cup Card

A Litte Touch of Spring

Back at it...

Christmas Gift Extravaganza

Card Holder

Silver Bells

Quick and Easy Christmas Gift

Notebook Holders

A Pair of Peppermint Snowmen

Recycling Idea for Christmas

A Little Carton of Merry

Hot Cocoa Card

White Christmas

Luminaries

Snowglobe Baggie

Stationary Tins

Here Comes Christmas!!! - Hand Sanitizer Holders

A Poochie Thank You

Christmas Gift Extravaganza

A Tin Bucket - Jo Ann Style

A Halloween "Candy" Bar

We all need a little Christmas...

Altered Altoids

A Post it Note for Fall

Fall en Francais

Emboss Resist

Smooch Spritzed Fall

A Four-Square for Fall

Shower Favors

A Coloring Card

A Taste of Fall...

A Little Sneaky Peeky...

Time for Vintage

70s Hoot!

Tye-Dyed Buckle Card

Green and Yellow Goodness

Friends Fur-ever

Another Quick Card to Share

She Lives! She Stamps!

Used Stamps For Sale

Welcome Tri-Fold Card

Father's Day Card

IMPORTANT OPEN HOUSE INFO & A Little Sneak Peek...

A Busy Flower

Summer Sparkle

4th of July Crackers

Color Dare #72

Colors of the Sea

Shades of Summer

Color Dare #69

The Discontinued List

Color Dare #68

Color Dare #67

Neutral Butterflies

Color Dare #66

A Masculine Birthday

Color Dare #65

Au Chocolat Notepad

Color Dare #64

A Top Note Pouch

A Chirp of Summer

Wedding Season