Crafty Maria's Stamping World

Here's to You - Penquin - Friday Mashup #45

2012-02-13T12:41:00.000-05:00

I didn't really think I had a stamp of a baby penquin except for Christmas stamps, and I really didn't want to make a Christmas card. But, looking closely through my stamp sets, I found the stamp that I used in the Zoo Review stamp set. The Challenge with The Friday Mashup #45 was to make a card with a penquin, using the spotlighting technique. So here is the "Mashup" Challenge :Make a

Baby Girl Footprints - Challenge 160 LNS

2012-02-13T09:12:00.002-05:00

I'm glad this week's challenge with the LNS (Late Night Stampers) Yahoo group #160 is a sketch challenge as I thoroughly enjoy doing them. Looking at the sketch, I debated about making another rosette, started to, and at the last minute decided not to. Although no one that I know of is having a baby at the moment, I felt the need to make a baby card - one for a little girl. Here is the

Doily Rosette Birthday - Create with Connie & Mary #188

2012-02-12T15:41:00.000-05:00

This is the card I made for the sketch challenge with Create with Connie and Mary #188 here Below is the sketch: I was in a rosette making mood last week and made a whole bunch of rosettes. The rosette in this card was one of them, so I ended up building the whole card around the rosette and the sketch challenge. Stamps: Button Buddies, On Your Birthday Inks: Basic black, Calypso Coral

A Thank you Gift - Hand knitted Dishcloth

2012-02-12T14:17:00.000-05:00

Lately I've been getting in touch with my roots. I learned how to know when I was 2 years old, and have been knitting ever since. Since I started Stampin' Up as a demonstrator the knitting was put aside. A few weeks ago I felt the urge to pick up the knitting needles and made a few projects. The few projects turned into many projects - mainly dishcloths as they knit up fast and I can try out

Chalk background Floral - Stamping 411 #242

2012-02-11T21:49:00.000-05:00

Good evening everyone, on this very chilly February 11th. Winter just had to let us know that it wasn't done with us yet! My card tonight reflects the sketch with Stamping 411 here The sketch used is below: This is my card: I chose to omit a sentiment on this card. When I sell my cards at market many of my customers look for blank cards that could be used year round and for any occasion.

In Wildness Birthday - Stampin Queen's Sketch Challenge #25

2012-02-11T17:04:00.004-05:00

I'm taking a break from making flowers, not that I'm tired of them, I just needed a masculine birthday card. For this card I used the sketch with Stampin Queen's Sketch Challenge #25 here Here is the sketch: I picked up one of my favourite stamp sets "In Wildness" as it is so versatile and makes such gorgeous Masculine cards. The base is Soft Suede, layered with Very Vanilla. It was a

Hydrangea Anniversay Card

2012-02-11T12:42:00.002-05:00

Stamp: Teeny Tiny Wishes Inks: Marina Mist, Old Olive, Basic Black Papers: Marina Mist, Old Olive, Whisper White, Bashful Blue, Springtime Vintage Designer Series Accessories: Vintage Wallpaper Embossing folder, 5/8" marina mist satin ribbon, antique brad, Full Heart punch, Small heart punch, stylus, pearls, stampin dimensionals The flowers were made using the Full Heart punch. A piece of

Simply Soft Birthday - Paper Players Challenge #81

2012-02-10T17:04:00.001-05:00

Anyone who knows me knows that I like flowers - maybe like is too mild a word! When you see this post you will see that my blog has had a face lift, and flowers are part of it. So, when I saw what the challenge was with the Paper Players here I was in 7th heaven. I did restrain myself though and made a simple clean card. However, I missed the post deadline by a few hours - the time it took me

Thoughts of You - Sketch Frenzy Friday

2012-02-10T08:25:00.001-05:00

Today is Friday, so its time for Sketch Frenzy Friday and time to share a cup of tea. This week's sketch is by Jennifer Weide Here is my card: Stamps: Tea Shoppe, Loving Thoughts Inks: Soft Suede, Marina Mist Papers: Marina Mist, Naturals Ivory, Very Vanilla, Pink Pirouette, Soft Suede, Attic Boutique designer paper Accessories: Scallop border punch, 1/8" Marina Mist taffeta ribbon, pearls,

Tissue Paper Birthday - Try Stampin' on Tuesday #52

2012-02-08T20:58:00.000-05:00

Try Stampin' on Tuesday is celebrating its first birthday this week, and the challenge is to make a birthday card to celebrate the event.here HAPPY BIRTHDAY TRY STAMPIN' ON TUESDAY May your next year be as big and as colorful as this flower Making the Flower: Using a 3 1/8" scallop circle die and the Big shot, scalloped circles were die cut from 5 layers of calypso coral tissue paper. Each

Rosette Flower Birthday Wishes - Challenge 159

2012-02-07T13:04:00.000-05:00

This challenge is perfect for me this week as I have a couple of close friends having birthdays. And since these cards can be hand delivered I decided to make them 3D. Challenge 159 with the LNS group is to make "girly, girly" cards. To me, "girly, girly" means flowers, ribbons, lace, brads, so all these elements are included in my card. Here is one of the cards: Stamp: Petite Pairs Ink:

Bunny Easter - Stamping 411 Saturday Sketch Challenge

2012-02-06T07:17:00.000-05:00

I realize it's only February, but the winter has been so mild my thoughts are increasingly on spring. And spring means Easter. So for the sketch challenge with Stamping 411 here I elected to make an Easter card. Stamp: Everybunny Inks: Black Stazon, Basic Black, Watercolor pencils, Concord Crush Papers: So Saffron, Naturals White, Whisper White, Wisteria wonder desigher paper, Concord Crush

Card one of top 3 picks at Technostamper challenge 205

2012-02-05T18:40:00.000-05:00

This card I made for a friend who was about to retire from farming was one of the top 3 picks at Technostamper here Here is the card, and the original blog post:http://craftymariasstampingworld.blogspot.com/2012/01/countryside-retirement-techno-stamper.html

Two St. Patrick's Day Cards

2012-02-03T12:02:00.001-05:00

I have 2 St. Patrick's Day cards to share with you today. They both have shamrocks as their central theme, but the design of each is totally different. This card I saw somewhere and CASED it, but I can't remember where and who. If someone recognizes the card please let me know. The shamrock in this card was made by stamping one of the hearts from the I (Heart) Hearts stamp set using Garden

Simply Soft Thank You - Sketch Frenzy Friday

2012-02-02T23:19:00.000-05:00

Wow, It's February already! Where did January go? I think I've been waiting for winter to arrive, and so far it hasn't. The temperatures have actually been so mild even mother nature is confused. The other day I heard a flock of Canada Geese flying over the river, and there are reports of crocuses starting to bloom and tulips sticking their heads out of the ground. In Calgary, the goft

St. Patrick's Day Card

2012-02-02T15:12:00.000-05:00

Although I love making Valentine's Day Cards, I think I have enough for my Craft show, so today I'm making some St. Patrick's Day cards. Hope you enjoy this one. Stamp: Define Your Life (Lucky stamp) It's been a long time since I've used that stamp set. Inks: Garden Green, Garden Green reinker Paper: Garden Green, Whisper White, Designer Paper from the Hostess set paper pack. Accessories:

Take it to Heart Anniversary - The Friday Mashup #43

2012-01-31T20:26:00.000-05:00

This anniversary card was made using the sketch challenge with The Friday Mashup here The challenge this week is to try something new - to use some of the new products recently obtained. Here is the sketch: My card: My almost life long friend and her husband are celebrating an anniversary soon - their 45th. I met my friend before she was married, so have known her for almost 50 years. But

St. Patrick's Day Wine Tag - Challenge 158 LNS Group

2012-01-31T09:54:00.000-05:00

This is my morning to make wine tags for the craft show this weekend. I've already made Valentine Day ones, general ones, and now I needed one for St. Patrick's Day - so I used challenge 158 with the LNS group i.e. to use the colors black, white, and another color. The other color I chose was Garden Green - for the shamrock of course. The same dimensions were used as in the previous post: 8 1

Valentine Wine Tag

2012-01-31T08:15:00.000-05:00

Valentine's Day is considered one of the most romantic days of the year, and many couples get engaged on this day. Roses, chocolates, and a bottle of wine all help to set the mood. My contribution -- a tag for the bottle of wine ---(or soft drink, water etc) The tag is 8 1/4 by 2 1/2" scored at 2 7/8". A 1 3/8" circle is punched in the top section and this fits neatly over the neck of the

Timeless Treasures - Happy Retirement - Create with Connie & Mary # 136

2012-01-30T09:55:00.000-05:00

Another one of my friends is retiring - but not from work - and she went out with a happy note having fulfilled her dream of playing an instrument in a band (at the ripe age of 75 years). Thus this card features an old music box - it seemed somewhat symbolic. I used the sketch challenge with Create with Connie & Mary here to create the card. Here is the sketch My card: My friend loved music

I Love the "U" in Us - Try Stampin 'on Tuesday #50

2012-01-29T18:16:00.000-05:00

I experimented with different approaches to the sketch challenge with Try Stampin' with Tuesday here and although it looks like a fairly uncomplicated sketch for some reason I struggled. However, I am happy with the results. Here is the sketch And my card: I knew I wanted to use a red, black and white color scheme, so I experimented with a red heart, a black heart, a red label, and a black

Countryside Retirement - Techno Stamper Monday Lunchtime Sketch Challenge # 205

2012-01-29T10:29:00.000-05:00

I had to let the sketch sit with me for a while as nothing immediately came to mind when I saw the sketch challenge for the Techno Stamper Monday Lunchtime Challenge here But a friend is retiring soon, so I needed a retirement card. This friend used to farm, and now likes to tinker in his garage refinishing furniture and doing general repairs. Hope he likes the card. Here is the sketch: My

Card on Stamper's Showcase at Stamping 411

2012-01-29T09:12:00.000-05:00

What a pleasant way to start the day! To find that a card I created was on the Stamper's showcase at Stamping 411. I had a lot of fun making this card and coloring the turtle was just sheer pleasure. Here is the card and the link to the original post:http://craftymariasstampingworld.blogspot.com/2012/01/happy-retirement-stamping-411-239.html

It's a Boy - SQSC #22

2012-01-28T20:09:00.000-05:00

I sold a lot of my cards last week and now find myself in the position of replacing some cards prior to my craft sale next weekend. Some of the cards I have to replace are baby cards, so for sketch challenge #22 with Stampin Queen's Sketch Challenge here I chose to make a baby card. Here's the sketch: Here's my card: When I first stamped the sentiment the word "boy" was crooked, and I was

Happy St. Patrick's Day - Stampin' Queen's Sketch Challenge #23

2012-01-28T07:26:00.000-05:00

For today's card I thought I would make a St. Patrick's Day card as I have enough Valentine's Day card for my craft show. I used the sketch challenge with Stampin' Queen's sketch challenge #23 here I will make a card with sketch #24 later. Here is the sketch: Stamps: Every Little Bit, Teeny Tiny wishes Inks: Garden Green Papers: Garden Green, Whisper White Accessories: Paper Doily Large

Fresh Vintage Birthday - Sketch Frenzy Friday

2012-01-26T23:40:00.000-05:00

It's Friday, and time for another mini blog hop with Sketch Frenzy Friday. Today's sketch is by Angela Walters: Here is my interpretation: Stamps: Fresh Vintage (SAB), Petite Pairs Inks: Calypso Coral, Lucky Limeade, Soft Suede Papers:Lucky Limeade, Very Vanilla, Everyday Enchantment Designer Series Paper (SAB) Accessories: 1/2" circle punch, 1 1/4" circle punch, 1 3/8" circle punch, 1 3/4

Best Wishes - Unscripted Sketches #142

2012-01-23T09:02:00.000-05:00

This sketch with Unscripted Sketches here provided me with a bit of a challenge - but since when have I backed away from a challenge. Here is the sketch Here is my card: Stamps: Simply Soft, Petite Pairs Inks: Black Stazon, SU markers, Basic Black, Marina Mist Papers: Marina Mist, Whisper Whtie, Attic Boutique designer paper, Scallop border punch, 1" circle punch 1 1/4" circle punch, 1/8"

The Sweet Stop: SSS142-January 21 Sketch with a SPIN and PRIZE

2012-01-23T08:50:00.000-05:00

The Sweet Stop: SSS142-January 21 Sketch with a SPIN and PRIZE

Valentine Love - Challenge 157 LNS & The Sweet Stop Sketch Challenge #142

2012-01-23T08:38:00.000-05:00

This week I am on the design team of the Late Night Stamper's group, and the theme is Valentine's Love. I didn't get the e-mail with the theme until late last night so I had to scamble a bit this morning, but I'm happy with the result. I used the sketch challenge with The Sweet Stop here Here is the sketch: Here is my card: Stamp: Sweet Cake Ink: Real Red Papers: Basic Black, Whisper White

Happiest Birthday - Try Stampin' on Tuesday #49

2012-01-22T09:42:00.000-05:00

What a lazy Sunday day. I haven't had too many of these lately, so I'm enjoying it thoroughly. Yes, I have preparation for the craft sale in 2 weeks, but the majority of it is done. A friend is having a birthday in a couple of weeks, and this is my card to her. I used the sketch with Try Stampin on Tuesday here I took some liberties with the sketch as it had a lot of open spaces just itching

Happy Retirement - Stamping 411 #239

2012-01-21T21:37:00.000-05:00

This is my interpretation of the sketch with Stamping 411 Saturday Sketch Challenge here I'm doing a craft show in a couple of weeks and needed some Retirement cards, so I used the stamp set "Nature's Nest" to make a retirement card. Here is my interpretation: Stamps: Nature's Nest. Teeny Tiny wishesInks: Black Stazon, SU markers, Basic GrayPapers: Basic Gray, River Rock, Whisper White, Well

It's a Girl

2012-01-21T13:22:00.000-05:00

I needed another baby girl card for my craft show in a couple of weeks and used the Baby Prints stamp set to make the card. I apologize for the picture - it looks a little washed out. Stamp: Baby Prints Inks: Pretty in Pink Papers: Pretty in Pink, Whisper White, Nursery nest designer paper, Old Olive Accessories: Corner rounder punch, 1 3/8" circle punch, Scallop circle punch, 3/8" old olive

Faith in Nature - Thank You - A Shaker Card - Hand Stamped Sentiments 101

2012-01-20T21:12:00.000-05:00

I love making Shaker cards, and that is the challenge this week with Hand Stamped Sentiments here . Stamp: Faith in Nature Ink:Black Stazon, SU Markers (More Mustard, Tangerine Tango, Cajun Craze, Pear Pizzazz, Old Olive, Always Artichoke) Papers: More Mustard, Whisper White, Cajun Craze, Well Worn designer paper, Cajun Craze Accessories: Stampin Dimensionals (I used the outside edge as the

It's a Boy - Sketch Frenzy Friday

2012-01-20T00:03:00.000-05:00

It's Friday, and time for another mini blog hop with Sketch Frenzy Friday. Today's sketch is brought to you by Tina Munske And here is my interpretation: Stamps: Baby Prints, Teeny Tiny Wishes Inks: Baja breeze Papers: Baja Breeze, Whisper White, Nursery Nest Designer Paper Accessories: Scallop circle die, Circle die, 1 3/8" circle punch, Scallop circle punch, Word label punch, Modern Word

Button Buddies Birthday wins Challenge 154

2012-01-19T14:39:00.000-05:00

This card, featuring the cherry button buddies won challenge 154 with the LNS Yahoo group. Here is the card and the original link: http://craftymariasstampingworld.blogspot.com/2012/01/button-buddies-birthday-challenge-154.html

Altered Acrylic Picture Frame Post it Note Holder

2012-01-18T15:37:00.000-05:00

This is another item for my craft table in a couple of weeks. Post it note holders are always a popular item on my table, and for this show I thought I'd make a different variation on the theme. I measured a piece of designer paper 4 by 6" and decorated it and inserted it into the frame. Glue dots were used to hold the paper in place at the top. The ribbon at the top hid the glue dots.

New Home - Challenge 156 Shaped Cards

2012-01-17T09:05:00.000-05:00

I used double sided designer paper to make this rectangular card with a triangular roof - a new home card - for challenge 156 - shaped cards. The finished card size is 3 by 7 1/4" House: 5 /8 by 6 scored at 3 Roof: 3 pieces of 3 by 4" with edges scalloped with Scalloped edge punch, then layered and trimmed into a triangular shape Sentiment: Timeless Type alphabet Junior Sizzlits Door

Love You - Freshly Made Sketch #17

2012-01-17T05:15:00.000-05:00

I loved the simplicity of the sketch with Freshly Made Sketchesd here and used it to make a Valentine's Day card featuring the SAB stamp set "Sparkled Expressions". However, I missed the deadline for the post with Freshly Made Sketches, but thought I would share it with you anyway. Stamps: Sparkled Expressions, P.S. I Love You Inks: Real Red, Basic Black Papers: Basic Black, Whisper White,

With Sympathy - Challenge 156 - Scallop Circle Card

2012-01-16T20:20:00.000-05:00

Challenge 156 with LNS Yahoo group is to make shaped cards. Here is my card - a scalloped circle sympathy card Stamps: Elements of Style, Teeny Tiny Wishes Inks: Black Stazon, SU Markers, Soft Suede Papers: Soft Suede, Very Vanilla, Attic Boutique designer paper Accessories: Scallop circle die, Scallop circle die #2, Scallop circle punch, Circle die #2, 3/8" Victorian Crochet crochet ribbon,

Valentine Hot Chocolate Treat Holder

2012-01-16T13:54:00.000-05:00

I got this idea from Glenda Mollett, who posted a similar treat holder at Christmas time. It featured a Snowman on the front. I adapted it for Valentine's Day and it will be an item on my craft table in a couple of weeks. Stamp: P.S. I Love You Inks: Real Red Papers: Basic Black, Real Red, Pretty in Pink, Whisper White Accessories: Perfect Polka dot embossing folder, 1 3/8" circle punch, 1"

From My Heart - Class Act Insider

2012-01-14T17:52:00.000-05:00

This is a Valentine's Day card with an unusual color combination: Red, White, Pink, and a touch of Teal. Who in their right mind puts teal on a Valentine's Day card? Well, those are the colors stipulated in the Valentine's Day contest at Class Act Insider here This is my card - all in all not a bad color combination! Stamps: Greeting Card Kids, P.S. I Love You Inks: Black Stazon, SU markers,

Inspired by Nature - Birthday Wishes - Stampin' Queens Sketch Challenge #21

2012-01-14T09:59:00.000-05:00

This was a tough sketch to do. But I do love a challenge and Stampin' Queens Sketch Challenge here sure provided me with one. Here is the sketch Here is my card for SQSC 21 I tried a different technique this time - embossing directly onto designer paper. I quite like the effect. Stamps: Inspired by Nature, Petite Pairs Inks: Basic Black, Versa MRK Papers: Early Espresso, Baja Breeze,

Card one of top 3 picks at Unscripted Sketches #140

2012-01-14T08:42:00.000-05:00

The Fruit & flowers card was one of the top 3 picks at Unscrpted Sketches Here is the card and the original posting: http://craftymariasstampingworld.blogspot.com/2012/01/fruits-flowers-birthday-unscripted.html

Sent with Love - Try Stampin' on Tuesday #48

2012-01-13T16:43:00.000-05:00

For the sketch challenge at Try Stampin' on Tuesday here I decided to make a Valentine's Day Card. My craft show is drawing nigh and I am in need of some Valentine cards. Stamp: P.S. I Love You Inks: Real Red Papers: Real Red, Whisper White, Red Glimmer, Basic Black, Big Top Birthday designer paper, Berry Blossoms designer paper Tempting Turquoise Accessories: Scallop border punch, 1" circle

Fabulous Florets With Sympathy - Sketch Frenzy Friday

2012-01-13T08:22:00.000-05:00

It's been a mild January until 3:30 yesterday morning - and then the freezing rain hit followed by snow. Then the temperature rose above freezing and everything that had fallen from the sky turned to mush - a messy mush. Last night more snow and frigid temperatures set in. Times like this I think of spring, so my card for Sketch Frenzy Friday this week is somewhat spring like, yet its a sympathy

With Sympathy SC367

2012-01-12T06:45:00.000-05:00

This is a card I made for the Splitcoast Stamper sketch challenge. After doing inventory, I realized that I needed some sympathy cards for my various craft shows coming up. Here's my card: Stamps: Upsy Daisy, Teeny Tiny wishes Inks: Marina Mist, Soft Suede Papers: Marina Mist, Very Vanilla, Soft Suede, Beau Chateau designer paper Accessories: Square Lattice embossing folder, 3/8" Soft

Bordering on Romance Note Card Set

2012-01-11T20:19:00.000-05:00

My next craft show is in a couple of weeks . This 4 card note card set is for my craft table. The size of each card is 5 by 3 1/2" and each envelope is hand made. This is the individual note card. Stamps: Bordering on Romance, Perfect Punches Inks: Black Stazon, Soft Suede, Su Markers (Pool Party, Blushing Bride, Pear Pizzazz) Papers: Blushing Bride, Soft Suede, Whisper White Accessories:

Sending Thanks - Red Hot Sketch Challenge #18

2012-01-11T08:22:00.000-05:00

This is the first challenge I have done with the RHSSC here and I hope nobody minds, but I put the sketch on its side. Stamps: Cherish Friendship, Petite Pairs Inks: Black Stazon, SU Markers Papers: Daffodil Delight, Whisper White, Old Olive, Wisteria Wonder, Attic Boutique Designer Paper Accessories: Tasteful Trim die, Scallop border punch, Aqua painter, 1/8" lucky limeade taffeta

Cherish Friendships - Stamping 411 Saturday Sketch Challenge 237

2012-01-10T14:40:00.000-05:00

"Friends are kind to each other's hopes and cherish each other's dreams". I love that quote, and that is what will go inside this friendship card. The Stamping 411 Saturday Sketch here was used to design this card. Stamps: Cherish Friendships, Friendly Phrases Inks: Black Stazon, Basic Black, SU markers Papers: Cherry Cobbler, Whisper White, Always Artichoke, Paisley Petals designer paper

Fruits & Flowers Birthday - Unscripted Sketches #140

2012-01-10T11:50:00.000-05:00

I'm slowly getting all my birthday cards made. This card is for a special friend who just absolutely loves strawberries - especially Ontario strawberries! Making this card took me back to when I was about 10 or 11 and my sister and I were wandering around the base of a hill near our home. In the late spring there were wild strawberrries growing there and we knew just where they were. Oh my, I

Card wins sketch challenge at Rubber Redneck TRRSS7

2012-01-10T07:14:00.000-05:00

This card won the challenge at The Rubber Redneck Stampede here You can find more information about the card on this post: http://craftymariasstampingworld.blogspot.com/2012/01/sending-many-thanks-rubber-redneck.html

Button Buddies Birthday - Challenge 154

2012-01-10T05:52:00.000-05:00

This week's challenge with the LNS group is to use fruit on a card. I love the Button Buddies stamp set and it has a cherry stamp, so I decided to use it to make a card. Stamps: Button Buddies, Teeny Tiny Wishes Inks: SU Markers (Real Red, Old Olive) Papers: Real Red, Whisper White, Big Top Birthday designer paper Accessories: Finial press embossing folder, Bright's buttons (red), White

I Dig You - A birthday card - Try Stampin' on Tuesday #47

2012-01-09T18:24:00.000-05:00

I'm catching up making birthday cards for the next 2 months. My eldest grandson has a birthday coming up early in February. Can't believe he's going to be 6. Where does the time go? My grandson loves anything on wheels. I think he was born with a matchbox car in his fist and hasn't let any of them go to this day, although he has expanded his network of motor vehicles to include trucks and

Card one of top 3 picks at Try Stampin' on Tuesday #46

2012-01-09T10:58:00.000-05:00

This is the card that made one of the top 3 picks at Try Stampin' on Tuesday here and the original blog post.http://craftymariasstampingworld.blogspot.com/2011/12/bordering-on-romance-birthdays-try.html Thanks very much Cheryann for the honour.

Growing Green Birthday Wishes - Craft Project Central #71

2012-01-08T16:52:00.000-05:00

This is a birthday month for me - not only for myself, but for my sister, and 2 of my friends. So I have been busy making cards, especially birthday ones. This one is for my sister. To create the card I used the sketch with Craft Project Central here Stamps; Growing Green, Petite Pairs Inks: Black Stazon, Basic Black, SU markers, watercolor crayons, Always Artichoke, Papers: Always

Card makes Homepage at ORSA

2012-01-08T11:30:00.000-05:00

Every month ORSA (Ontario Rubber Stamping Artists) yahoo group has a challenge. The card is to be made and then uploaded into a folder. The challenge in January was to create a blue and white glittery card - and the card I submitted (even though it has a bit of red on it) made the home page here Here is the card and the original post: http://craftymariasstampingworld.blogspot.com/2011/10/

Crazy for Cupcakes Birthday - The Friday Mashup #40

2012-01-07T19:57:00.000-05:00

Strangely it's my birthday this week as, as well as 2 of my friends, so making this birthday card was very timely. I'm going to have to make a couple more, but this is a start. The challenge with the Friday Mashup here is not only to make a birthday card, but it make it using pastels. I used Stampin Pastels with a blender pen to color the focal image. Stamp: Crazy for Cupcakes Inks: Black

Celebrate - Birthday - Stampin Queen's Sketch Challenge 20

2012-01-07T14:25:00.000-05:00

Today I wanted to try out the new Blossom punch and coordinating Mixed Bouquet stamp set using the sketch with Stampin Queen's sketch challenge here Here is the sketch Here is my card: Stamps: Mixed Bouquet, Outlined Occasions Inks: Soft Suede, Poppy Parade, Pool Party SU Markers (Daffodil Delight, Basic Black, Soft Suede). Always Artichoke Papers: Soft Suede, Natural Ivory, Very Vanilla,

I have been awarded the Versatile Blogger Award

2012-01-06T14:06:00.000-05:00

On December 30,. 2011, I was awarded the Versatile Blogger Award by Genevieve Valdes here What a wonderful tribute from a very talented designer and what a wonderful way to end the year. Thank you very much. Take a moment to check out the blog of this very creative individual. This is the second time I have been given this award. Previously it had been awarded by Wendy Hawkinson but I have

Sending Many Thanks - Rubber Redneck Stampeded Sketch Challenge TRRS7

2012-01-06T13:19:00.000-05:00

This Thank you card is based on the sketch challenge at the Rubber Redneck Stampede here Stamps: Bordering on Romance, Petite Pairs Inks: Black Stazon, Basic black, SU Markers Papers: Soft Suede, Crumb Cake, Poppy Parade, Antique Attic designer paper, Whisper White Accessories: 3/8" Lucky Limeade ruffled ribbon, antique brad, Curly Label punch, Stampin dimensions, Scallop border punch,

So Grateful - Sketch Frenzy Friday

2012-01-06T02:52:00.000-05:00

I can't believe how fast the first week of the New Year has gone by. Today is already Friday and time again for the Sketch Frenzy mini blog hop. Today's card is by Tammy Baldwin: Here is my card: Stamp: Apothecary Art Inks: Black stazon, SU markers, Basic Black Papers: Calypso Coral, Whisper White, Berry Blossoms designer paper, Wisteria Wonder Accessories: Labels Framelit, In Color

"Tea"rific - Unscripted Sketches #139

2012-01-05T16:22:00.000-05:00

This sketch with Unscripted Sketchet #139 here was one I had to sit with for a while. I started and tore up several attempts at completing this challenge and it wasn't until I turned the sketch on its side that I began to see the possibilities. Here is the sketch And here is my card (finally!!!) Stamp: Morning Cup Inks: Black Stazon, Basic Black, SU markers, Soft Suede Papers: Soft

Fabulous Florets Happy Birthday card was spotlighted on Stamping Queen's Challenge

2012-01-04T21:58:00.000-05:00

I was so excited - my card featuring the Fabulous Florets - was spotlighted on Stamping Queen's Challenge here Here is the card and the link to the post in my blog: http://craftymariasstampingworld.blogspot.com/2012/01/fabulous-florets-happy-birthday-stampin.html?utm_source=BP_recent

Take it to Heart Birthday SC366

2012-01-04T13:41:00.000-05:00

This is the first time I have done a sketch challenge with Splitcoast Stampers and enjoyed doing it, although I found it a bit challenging. Stamps: Take it to Heart, Petite Pairs Inks: Black Stazon, Basic Black, Marina Mist, SU Markers Papers: Marina Mist, Whisper White, Early Espresso, Pocket Full of Posies designer paper Accessories: Hearts Framelits, 1 1/4" circle punch, 1" Circle Punch,

My Son's First Car - Challenge 154

2012-01-03T20:18:00.000-05:00

I don't have many car, train or plane stamps, but my son just happened to buy a new - well used - car a couple of days ago, and of course mom had to take pictures. So, for this challenge I decided to make a 12 by 12 scrapbook page featuring his "new" car. If you look very closely in the bottom picture you will see a dog proudly looking out of the driver's window. That's Cooper - another first -

Countryside Birthday - Challenge 154

2012-01-02T17:59:00.000-05:00

The challenge this week with the Late Night Stampers Yahoo group is "Trains, planes, automobiles" - challenge #154 Here is my card: Stamps: Countryside, Petite Pairs Inks: Black stazon, Early Espresso, Watercolor pencils, Bravo Burgunday, Versa Mark Papers: Bravo Burguncy, Crumb Cake, Very Vanilla, Well Worn designer paper Accessories: Aqua painter, Crystal Effects, Curcly Label Punch, Pewter

Get Well Soon - Stamping 411 Saturday Sketch Challenge #236

2012-01-02T15:36:00.000-05:00

There's a lot of illness out there. With the weather flip flopping the flu virus is having a hay day. This card, made using the sketch challenge with Stamping 411 Saturday Sketch Challenge here is for all those folks who are feeling under the weather - for whatever reason. Here is the sketch: The empty chair in my card represents the effect that illness has on the person and the family----

Fabulous Florets Happy Birthday - Stampin Queen's Sketch Challenge #19

2012-01-01T20:03:00.000-05:00

Today I took down all the Christmas decorations, a chore I do not particularly like as it seems the whole house becomes a mess. The boxes are still not put away as my son has to carry them down the basement for me, but he is out dog sitting - so they sit in the kitchen until his return. One thing I have discovered about myself is that I hate clutter and disorganization. So today's task was

From My Heart to Yours - Colour Q Color Challenge #117

2012-01-01T14:32:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year Everyone!! Hope everyone had a wonderful holiday season and that you`re looking forward to the New Year with eagerness and anticipation! Today`s card for Color Challenge Q here is a Valentine`s Day Card because the colors are: basic black, whisper white and another color (of course I chose RED) Here is the challenge: Here is the Valentine`s Day Card: Stamp: P.S. I Love You

With Love - An Anniversary Card

2011-12-31T21:08:00.000-05:00

I used the sketch with Unscripted Sketches to make this Anniversary card. Unfortunately I was too late to post it to their home page. Stamps: Elements of Style, Hand Stamped Sentiments Inks: Black Stazon, Soft Suede, SU markers (Pool Party, Tempting Turquoise, Calypso coral, Daffodil delight, Wild Wasabi, Always Artichoke Papers: Soft suede, Very Vanilla, Attic Boutique Designer Paper

Giraffe Thank You - Create with Connie & Mary #182

2011-12-31T18:00:00.000-05:00

This card was created using the sketch challenge with CCMC #182 here The focal image was created because of a mistake. I know, in stamping, crafting, etc there are no such thing as a mistake, only opportunities to be creative - but this truly was a mistake - one that couldn't be fixed with an embellishment. The giraffe had been completely watercolored when I went to watercolor some blue

My Favourite cards from 2011 - Flowers - Card 4

2011-12-31T10:04:00.000-05:00

This is the last of the flower cards for this week in review. I made many more flowers using the Flower Builder punch, and loved every minute of making them. The Clematis flower below was inspired by an actual flower vine in my garden, and I couldn't resist trying to imitate on paper. You'll see a picture of my actual clematis plant as well as all the info re this card in the post below: http

Happy New Year 2012 The Friday Mashup #38

2011-12-30T13:58:00.000-05:00

Winter took long enough, but on Tuesday it arrived with a vengeance - rain, turning to freezing rain, then snow, followed by rain, and then a flash freeze. Wednesday I had to drive my son to work for 8 a.m. and it took me 1/2 hour just to scrape the ice off the car. The roads were just terrible, but I made it to his work in the north end of the city back to my home in the south end, without

Fresh Vintage - Thanks - Sketch Frenzy Friday

2011-12-30T00:03:00.000-05:00

A blast of winter has descended on Central Ontario and what a shock!! I even had to dig out my boots this morning! Talk about denial. I knew Winter was coming, but dawdled about getting my snow boots out. So I put my boots on, bravely went into the dark cold morning to scrape the ice off my card. It took me 1/2 an hour. But regardless of the weather, today is Friday, and time for another

My Favourite cards from 2011 - Flowers - Card 3

2011-12-29T07:27:00.000-05:00

Another one of the top favourites was the Pansy card - again made with the Butterfly punch and the drop reinker technique. You can see the original post here

My Favourite cards from 2011 - Flowers - Card 2

2011-12-28T06:17:00.000-05:00

This card, featuring the Sweet Pea flower, was probably one of the most popular flower card and also one of my favourites. After many requests I even made a video on how to make the Sweet Pea flower using the butterfly punch. You can see the video here Here is the card and the original posting: http://craftymariasstampingworld.blogspot.com/2011/01/sweet-pea-birthday-card.html

Card featured on Stampin' Queens Challenge blog

2011-12-28T05:48:00.000-05:00

The card I designed using the sketch challenge with Stampin' Queen's Challenge #18 was one of this week's spotlight cards and was featured on their blog here Here is the card and the original posting: http://craftymariasstampingworld.blogspot.com/2011/12/twitterpated-stampin-queens-sketch.html?utm_source=BP_recent

My Favourite cards from 2011 - Flowers - Card 1

2011-12-27T17:56:00.000-05:00

I had many favourite cards this past year. I had a lot of fun with the flower builder punch, making many different types of flowers. Over the next few days I will repost some of these. Here is a yellow flower, probably the first one I made using the Build a Flower stamp set and its coordinating Build a Flower punch. Here is the original posting: http://craftymariasstampingworld.blogspot.com/2011

Valentine Card Artist Pick at Hand Stamped Sentiment

2011-12-27T07:08:00.000-05:00

The Step Card made for the Hand Stamped Sentiment unique fold challenge here was one of the top artists pick this week. Here is a picture of the card and the original posting: http://craftymariasstampingworld.blogspot.com/2011/12/valentines-thinking-of-you-step-card.html?utm_source=BP_recent

Twitterpated Stampin' Queens Sketch Challenge #18

2011-12-26T20:55:00.000-05:00

If you're anything like me , you didn't know what the word "twitterpated" meant - let alone be able to pronounce it. A computer search defined the word "twitterpated" to mean "Excited or overcome by romantic feeling", "Smitten". That's one thing about Stampin' Up I like -improvement of my vocabulary. Using the Twitterpated designer paper and ribbon, I designed this card using the Stampin'

Take it To Heart - a Valentine's Day Card

2011-12-26T11:59:00.000-05:00

Curious regarding the history of Valentine's Day?? I was so I did a computer search and this is what I came up with. "The history of Valentine's Day — and its patron saint — is shrouded in mystery. But we do know that February has long been a month of romance. St. Valentine's Day, as we know it today, contains vestiges of both Christian and ancient Roman tradition. So, who was Saint

Happy Anniversary - Stamping 411 SSC 235

2011-12-26T06:03:00.000-05:00

Anniversary cards are always popular at my craft table - second to Birthday and Baby cards. This anniversay card was made using the sketch challenge with Stamping 411 Saturday Sketch Challenge here Stamps: Growing Green, Teeny Tiny wishes Inks: Versa Mark, Basic Black, Watercolor crayons Papers: Marina Mist, Whisper White, Watercolor paper, Beau Chateau designer paper Accessories: Perfect

Valentine's Thinking of You - a Step Card - Hand Stamped Sentiments #98

2011-12-25T21:36:00.000-05:00

The challenge at Hand Stamped Sentiments here this week is to make a unique fold. I chose to make a card, a 5 by 7" Step Card. Stamp: You are Loved Inks: Real Red, Basic black Papers: Real Red, Whisper White, Real Red designer paper, Red glimmer paper Accessories: Adorning Accents embossing folder (hearts), Hearts collection framelits die, Large Pearls, Heart to Heart punch, dimensionals,

Card one of top 3 picks at Unscripted Sketches

2011-12-24T15:15:00.000-05:00

Another one of my baby cards made the top 3 picks - this time at Unscripted Sketches #137 here Here is the card and a link to the original posting: http://craftymariasstampingworld.blogspot.com/2011/12/bringing-baby-home-unscripted-sketches.html

Card one of Operators Pick at Stamping 411

2011-12-24T15:04:00.000-05:00

The Welcome Baby Home card was one of the Operators top picks at Stamping 411 Saturday Sketch Challenge #234 Here is the card and the original posting: http://craftymariasstampingworld.blogspot.com/2011/12/welcome-baby-girl-stamping-411-saturday.html :

Bordering on Romance Birthday - Try Stampin' on Tuesday #46

2011-12-24T10:35:00.000-05:00

Happy Christmas Eve Day everyone. And the best of the holiday season to you and your family. Since Christmas will be over with by next Tuesday, I thought I would think ahead to Spring for the sketch challenge with Try Stampin' on Tuesday here Spring - a time for romance and flowers blooming and gentle, soft colors! The stamp set that I used for this card also provides you with a sneak peak of

Valentine Greetings - The Friday Mashup #33

2011-12-23T12:52:00.000-05:00

Two more days until Christmas! How did it get here so fast? Hope you have all your shopping done, or your presents made. I made most of my presents this year as I couldn't get to the stores because of physical problems. But I enjoyed making them, and I'm sure my family will enjoy receiving them. One of the presents I made was a card box that I decorated, and filled with an assortment of

Inspired by Nature - Thanks - Sketch Frenzy Friday

2011-12-23T00:07:00.000-05:00

With Christmas only 2 days away, I have put my Christmas stamps away. But that didn't mean that I couldn't make a winter card for this sketch challenge and the mini blog hop with Sketch Frenzy Friday here Today's sketch is by Robbie Rubela Here is my card: I couldn't resist pulling out an old friend, Inspired by Nature. The sketch just seemed to call for it, just like it called for the

Silver and White Beautiful Wings - Create with Connie & Mary Color Challenge 181

2011-12-22T20:20:00.000-05:00

I don't usually make New Year's Day cards, but the color combination with the color challenge with Create with Connie & Mary here- Silver Glimmer and Whisper White -was perfect for this. When I first that the colors were Silver Glimmer and Whisper White, my first thought was Christmas, but I'm finished designing and making Christmas cards, so I was initially stumped. So, I let the colors sit

Love and Laughter - a Wedding card

2011-12-22T16:08:00.000-05:00

This is another one of the new stamp sets from the new Occasions Mini Catalogue. It is done is Whisper White and Silver - quite dramatic for a wedding card. It was difficult taking a picture of this card because of the light shining off the silver surface. It took several tries, and I'm not happy with this one, but it's the best of about 5 pictures taken. Stamp: Love & Laughter Inks: Versa

Apothecary Art Happiest Birthday

2011-12-21T16:52:00.000-05:00

Are you ready for Santa Claus? Hope all your shopping (and baking) is almost done and you can put your feet up tonight. I miss the snow we usually have for Christmas, plus going to the mall and soaking up the Yuletide atmosphere. This year, because of foot surgery and a painful knee (having knee replacement surgery in March) I have been unable to get to the stores. All my presents this year

Baby Bundle - The Rubber Redneck Stampede #6

2011-12-20T19:36:00.000-05:00

Today's baby card is for a little boy, and to maintain the softness of the card I kept to 2 main colors - blue (marina mist and bashful blue) and Whisper White. I used the sketch challenge with TRRS here Here's my card. Hope you like it. Stamps: Baby Bundle, Petite Pairs Inks: Black Stazon, Basic Black, Watercolor pencils Papers: Marina Mist, Whisper White, Marina Mist designer paper,

Bear Hugs - The Sweet Stop Sketch Challenge 139

2011-12-20T08:44:00.000-05:00

I'm so glad I found the sketch challenge with the SSSC here. It certainly is a sketch one can use over and over again. The card I made is another baby card - for a baby of unknown gender. More and more prospective mothers do not wish to know the gender of their baby, and increasingly doctors are not giving out that information either. The card is done is shades of green, with a bit of bashful

Christmas Song for Stampers Song 5 - Twelve Days of Christmas

2011-12-20T07:31:00.000-05:00

This is the final Christmas song for stampers that was forwarded to me by another group. I did, however, make changes to the words of this song.I have had lots of feedback indicating how much these songs have been enjoyed. Please feel free to forward them on. We all need a little cheer this time of year. Sing this song to the tune of "12 Days of Christmas" 12 Days of Christmas On the twelfth

Bringing Baby Home - Unscripted Sketches #137

2011-12-19T10:34:00.000-05:00

Where do babies come from? How did the baby come here mommy? Did your children ask those questions when you brought your new baby home? More and more we give explanations other than "the stork brought your sister home", but that explanation is still out there. This card depicts a stork bringing a baby girl home and uses the sketch challenge from Unscripted Sketches http://unscriptedsketches.com/

Song for Stampers - Song 4

2011-12-19T09:11:00.000-05:00

This is the another song passed on to my by another Yahoo group. Tomorrow I will post the last one. Sing this one to " Deck the Halls"