Northwest Stamper

Blog

  • Free Stamps & a Fun Idea for the Sunburst Die

    I suddenly realized this morning that June is rapidly flying by and that means the fabulous promotion for getting 2 free stamp sets added to your Starter Kit when you purchase it in June is also quickly coming to a close!  So I wanted to make sure to post a reminder for everyone!

    recruiting_header_newdemo_may2416_eng

    How it works:

    • Decide you are ready to join the Fun Side by becoming a demonstrator – my Fun n’ Crafty Stampers group would love to welcome you!
    • Pick out $125 in product from your wishlist (easy, right?  with the new Annual Catalog) and head over to start filling out the starter kit info.
    • Pick out 2 MORE stamp sets you want to get FOR FREE (any value) and add them to your starter kit
    • Only pay $99 plus tax… Stampin’ Up even covers the shipping!
    • Get fun stuff in the mail and I’ll reach out to say welcome and get you added to our Fun n’ Crafty team FB group and more! Smile 

    With so many great reason to give it a try… why not try it out?

    2 Free Stamps Promotion ends June 30th!
    Get yours and your Starter Kit Deal here

    Fun Idea for the Sunburst Thinlit Die

    So, are you ready for some inspiration?  Maybe even some things to add to your starter kit Winking smile.  This was a card I created for my Stamp Club as a way to mix and match some supplies in my craft room that I didn’t normally think to put together.  Check it out:

    Fun things to try on this card:

    • Create a cool background with the Sunburst Die and Vellum!  I love the look of the sunburst die, but I wanted to do something a little bit different with is, so I used it to create a background pattern for my card.  The neat thing is that when you use Vellum for your sunburst, you can layer it over your cardbase and depending on the color of your base cardstock, you’ll get a cool muted color where the vellum overlays. 
    • Only adhere the vellum where it is covered – just a tip for gluing down your Vellum, only put the glue where the sunburst will be covered up.  So, in this case, I just glued down underneath the square and not all the way to the ends of the sunburst rays.
    • Create a frame for the sentiment of your card – I love doing this with my cards.  I stamp my sentiment onto a piece of cardstock and then on a SECOND piece of cardstock (slightly larger than the sentiment piece) punch out a window using a framelit (like the Circles Framelits for a card like this) or a punch.  Then pop up that cardstock with a cutout over your sentiment using Stampin’ Dimensionals for a cool layered look.
    • Add extra texture by using an embossing folder for your frame piece – I took it up a notch by using the Woodgrain embossing folder on my circle frame piece.  Now, word of caution – you want to put in as few shims as necessary when embossing with this particular folder because when you go to cut out your circle, you end up with skinnier areas of cardstock around the circle which will be prone to tearing if your aren’t careful.  Good news though, if it tears a little, you can always put a dimensional behind the tear and it will hold it together and hide the rip.

    I also created my colorful background for the sentiment by using the swoosh from the Work of Art stamp set and stamped in three different colors

    • Pool Party
    • Delightful Dijon
    • Wisteria Wonder

    But mix and match the colors to coordinate with the colors of your card!

    Try another color combination for the same card idea!

    I thought I’d also post another version of this card that I created for the April OnStage Display boards – I changed up the colors to make the emphasis Mint Macaron, one of the colors I needed to highlight for the boards.

    So you can see that changing up the colors on this design still looks great!  In this case, I used

    • Pool Party
    • Sahara Sand
    • Mint Macaron
    • Watermelon Wonder (for the heart)

    So give it a try and let me know what color combinations you discover and love!

    NWstamper signature_thumb[9]

    order online button for sig 3_thumb[4]

    Use Hostess Code WKVC92UY at check out to get a special thank you from me!

    Product List

    Suite Sayings Wood-Mount Stamp Set

    $29.00

    Suite Sayings Clear-Mount Stamp Set

    $21.00

    Work Of Art Wood-Mount Stamp Set

    $30.00

    Work Of Art Clear-Mount Stamp Set

    $22.00

    Big Shot

    $110.00

    Big Shot Magnetic Platform

    $40.00

    Sunburst Thinlits Die

    $29.00

    Layering Circle Framelits Dies

    $35.00

    Woodgrain Textured Impressions Embossing Folder

    $7.50

    Rhinestone Basic Jewels Embellishments

    $5.00

    Wisteria Wonder 8-1/2" X 11" Card Stock

    $8.00

    Pool Party 8-1/2" X 11" Card Stock

    $8.00

    Very Vanilla 8-1/2" X 11" Card Stock

    $9.00

    Wisteria Wonder Classic Stampin' Pad

    $6.50

    Pool Party Classic Stampin' Pad

    $6.50

    Delightful Dijon Classic Stampin' Pad

    $6.50

    Rose Red Classic Stampin' Pad

    $6.50

    Paper Snips Scissors

    $10.00

    Stampin' Dimensionals

    $4.00

  • Making Kites on Cards with the Swirly Bird stamp set

    If you have seen the Swirly Bird stamp set in the Stampin’ Up catalog, you may have thought to yourself that it didn’t look like much… or, like I did, what the heck am I going to do with these shapes?!

    But the amazing thing you’ll see if you start looking at cards using this set, is that you end up seeing so many different options and opportunities!  Kind of like life, right?  You look at the jumble of people and situations and wonder how it all comes together and yet, usually you end up being pleasantly surprised by some of the cool and unexpected ways things come together!  So, today I thought I’d share one of the first cards I made with the Swirly Bird stamp set… did you see those weird triangle shapes in the stamp image above?  Check it out… they turn into kites when used together!!!

    Tips for making this card:

    • Two stamps means lots of opportunity to play with color – Mix and match your colors for the striped part of the kite and the solid part.  I was focusing on Delightful Dijon as this was a card for the OnStage displays using that color, but play around with your favorite colors to find new and fun color combinations!
    • Cut out some shapes to help your kites float on the breeze – While there is a coordinating thinlit set, it doesn’t cut out the kite image or the little bows.  But don’t be dissuaded from adding this pop of dimension!  Here are a few of my tips for cutting out stamp shapes so they look great:
      – Always leave some white space around the outside of your images! 
      When I first started cutting out stamped images, I tried to cut exactly on the outline of the image.  The problem with that is that I’m an imperfect cutter and so sometimes I would cut right on the line and sometimes I’d cut OFF the line, or leave a little bit of white.  Which in the end, didn’t look so great.  But when I would cut and always try to leave a little bit of white around the edges, you don’t notice when I’m slightly closer in one spot or a little farther away in others.  Plus, it keeps the clean edge of the stamped image in tact, so the image always looks great!
      – Move your paper NOT your scissors! 
      This is another trick that blew my mind when I first started cutting things out.  If
      you are like me, you learned in kindergarten to open and close the scissors in the direction of where you want to cut.  And that works great if you are cutting strips of paper or other mostly straight lines.  It doesn’t work so well when you are cutting curves or in little detail areas.  So, now, I always start with my scissors open and slowly close them for my cutting, but with my other hand, I move my paper to change direction of the cut.  Moving the paper allows for smooth curves and can make it a lot easier to get in to those tight little spaces.
    • Cut up your dimensionals (and the edges of the foam dimensional sheets!) to pop up even the littlest pieces – I wanted my kites to be floating on the breeze, but then I had to figure out what to do with the tails.  Ended up being easy to just cut up some of the edges of dimensional sheets so I could pop up the thin lines behind a few of the bows on each string.  Seriously, it is easier than it sounds!
    • Try the other stamps in unexpected ways!  I thought the swirly images in the stamp set looked like birds nests or artsy flowers, but when working on this card, I suddenly saw clouds!  That is the beauty of it, you can make them whatever you want!  I used Soft Sky ink and then for fun, added a white sequin from the Metallic Sequins assortment to the middle of each with a glue dot.

    I loved how this card came together and hope it inspires you to give this stamp set a second look and maybe you’ll see some fun and unexpected combinations for an amazing project!

    And speaking of fun and amazing new products and projects, if you missed it over on my YouTube channel, I posted an “unboxing” video to walk through all the new ribbons, papers, accessories, kits, and many many new stamp sets!  In fact, I had so much I couldn’t keep it all in one box!  So, check it out and see if you find any unexpected favorites in there Smile

    Annual Catalog Unboxing and New Product Preview

    So, what do you think?  Have a favorite stamp or paper?  I love your comments and would love to hear from you on what your thoughts are Smile .

    NWstamper signature_thumb[9]

    order online button for sig 3_thumb[4]

    Use Hostess Code WKVC92UY at check out to get a special thank you from me!

    Project Supply List

    Swirly Bird Photopolymer Stamp Set

    $25.00

    Butterfly Basics Wood Stamp Set

    $48.00

    Butterfly Basics Clear Stamp Set

    $36.00

    Butterfly Basics Photopolymer Stamp Set

    $24.00

    Metallics Sequin Assortment

    $5.00

    Paper Snips Scissors

    $10.00

    Cucumber Crush Classic Stampin' Pad

    $6.50

    Delightful Dijon Classic Stampin' Pad

    $6.50

    Tip Top Taupe Classic Stampin' Pad

    $6.50

    Soft Sky Classic Stampin' Pad

    $6.50

    Sahara Sand 8-1/2" X 11" Card Stock

    $8.00

    Delightful Dijon 8-1/2" X 11" Cardstock

    $8.00

    Whisper White 8-1/2" X 11" Card Stock

    $9.00

    Glue Dots

    $5.25

    Stampin' Dimensionals

    $4.00

  • Peek-a-Boo, a Bear Hug card for You!

    After all the tragedy in the news over the last weekend, I thought it was the perfect time to share a paper hug here on the blog. 

    I was inspired by a card by the hilarious Brian King and just loved the bear from the Bear Hugs stamp set popping out of the corner of the card!

    Tips for making this card:

    • Let your images jump out of the frame! Stamp the bear from the Bear Hugs stamp set and cut him out using the matching framelits.  Then glue him onto the front of the paper you want him to be popping out of, so that his legs are hanging off of the corner.  Trim off any parts of the bear that are hanging over the edge and he is jumping out with a hug for you!
    • Great looks with mats – Make it really looked like a framed window by creating a small mat out of the same color cardstock as the bear!  I have him glued onto a piece of Whisper White cardstock and cut his legs to match the edges of the white cardstock.  THEN, I mounted that onto a piece of Crumb Cake cardstock (the same that I used for the bear) that was cut to be 1/8” longer and taller than my white piece.  So, if the white cardstock is 2 1/4” x 3 1/2”, the crumb cake is 2 3/8” x 3 5/8”.
    • Mix and match sentiments for fun personalized sentiments!  I used the Peek-a-Boo from the Suite Sentiment sets and just colored the “peek-a-boo” from the baby sentiment with a marker.  Then I used the “see this hug” and it’s for you” from the Bear Hugs set, to finish out my custom sentiment!  Mix and match any works in your collection for fun phrases.

    For everyone impacted by the horrible acts in Orlando this weekend, my heartfelt condolences to you and your loved ones!  There is also a card drive going on to shower the owner of Pulse nightclub with love and thoughts by sending her cards of support.  If you are interested in participating, I have details posted on my facebook page here.

    NWstamper signature_thumb[9]

    order online button for sig 3_thumb[4]

    Use Hostess Code WKVC92UY at check out to get a special thank you from me!

    Product List

    Bear Hugs Wood-Mount Stamp Set

    $30.00

    Bear Hugs Clear-Mount Stamp Set

    $22.00

    Suite Sayings Wood-Mount Stamp Set

    $29.00

    Suite Sayings Clear-Mount Stamp Set

    $21.00

    Bear Hugs Framelits Dies

    $27.00

    Big Shot

    $110.00

    Big Shot Magnetic Platform

    $40.00

    Crumb Cake 8-1/2" X 11" Card Stock

    $8.00

    Whisper White 8-1/2" X 11" Card Stock

    $9.00

    Basic Black Archival Stampin’ Pad

    $7.00

    Mint Macaron Classic Stampin' Pad

    $6.50

    Many Marvelous Markers

    $110.00

    Paper Snips Scissors

    $10.00

    Stampin' Dimensionals

    $4.00

  • 2016 OnStage Display Board Samples–Mint Macaron!

    2016 OnStage Display Board Samples–Mint Macaron!

    display stamper

    Ok I’m finally getting the last set of projects up on the blog!  It’s been a busy week with Caitlin’s gymnastics show (or really, in her case, bouncing around the floor :))

    2016-06-06 15.58.16

    and then Nicholas’ kindergarten graduation and then HIS gymnastics performance on Saturday.  Then it is officially SUMMER!  I’m not sure whether to be excited because there is more flexibility in the day or scared because that means the quiet time in the middle of the day is going to be gone for 2 1/2 months!

    But the sun is shining and the kids are cute… so I’ll choose happy. 🙂

    And here are some Minty Fresh project ideas to get you going for summer too!

    A fun and simple card that is quick and easy to do using some of the In Color designer paper, Bold Butterfly thinlits, and the Bloomin’ Love stamp set.

    Or get a little fancier and bust out the vellum and Sunburst die to make a card like this:

    And if you are in a hurry, how about a simple birthday card using the Balloon Celebrations stamp set?

    I also had to create a scrapbook page for the display boards and just loved the fun of this picture from a Mommy & Me “spa” date.  It was a special treat for Caitlin and so the sentiment from the You’re So Sweet stamp set.

    So, if you missed any of my other Display Board projects you can check them out here:

    Product Shares and Samplers – Reserve Yours!

    Just a reminder, I’m wrapping these up, so make sure to let me know if you want to take advantage of one of these samples:

    >>>Product Samplers Details and Sign Up<<<

    Product Samplers ad

    NWstamper signature_thumb[9]

    order online button for sig 3_thumb[4]

  • November OnStage Display Board Stamper Submission

    Oh my goodness!  I got back from my trip and learned they had opened up Display Stamper applications for the November OnStage demonstrator event.  Yes, I’m already getting excited for November!  Smile  Well I thought I would submit because I love the chance to focus on a smaller set of products and try to step up my game to make what I hope would be inspiration to some stampers. Smile  So, here are the projects I have to submit for my application:

    Cards

    Yes, that is on Vanilla Paper…. I just love this Moroccan stamp set as a background image!

    Man, this card sections was sooooo hard!  I had one more I wanted to share, so hopefully you enjoyed the 3 I picked! Smile 

    Scrapbook Page

    Sometimes a picture just calls for it’s very own scrapbook page… and this picture of my girly.  Yeah, totally called for a page of her own!

    And under that Hello You?  That is Gold Wink of Stella… yay for shimmer and shine!

    3D Projects

    First a mini-treat bag!

    And one more with something new… my FAVORITE!!!  Foxy Friends!

    So I hope you enjoyed these projects almost as much as I loved making them. Smile  And if I have a chance to be a Display Stamper, I would be so excited and love the opportunity.  

    NWstamper signature_thumb[9]

    order online button for sig 3_thumb[4]

  • 2016 OnStage Display Board Samples–Delightful Dijon!

    2016 OnStage Display Board Samples–Delightful Dijon!

    display stamper

    Oops!  While I was away on my trip, apparently I got the last two display stamper blog posts ready but didn’t actually get them published!  But some of my favorite samples were in these sets so I want to make sure to get them shared for you now.  🙂

    Today’s projects all highlight the Delightful Dijon color.  This was not one of my favorite colors when I saw it by itself and I thought for sure it would be my hardest color to work with…. NOPE!  Turns out it is a great color when mixed with neutrals and even some bright pops of color!

    For example, my favorite card I made for the boards using the new Swirly Bird stamp set:

    Or even as a base with Gold Foil and Mint Macaron.  And yes, that splatter is from the Swirly Bird set too along with the boat!  Great set, huh?

    And I couldn’t stop playing with gold and Delightful Dijon.  Check out how well they go together when paired with the Mini Treat Bag:

     

    And finally, the scrapbook layout that I promised my mom I’d do. 🙂  I needed to finish up scrapbook layouts for the boards and I was with my mom at the Mt. Vernon Tulip Festival.  I thought the tulips would make a great background for a photo and since she is a demonstrator and would be with me at OnStage in April, I had her pose with me in a photo and promised I’d scrap it as one of my display projects.  I totally wish I had gotten a photo of it up on the boards with me and mom there.  Such a fun little touch of personalization for an awesome trip to Salt Lake City!

    I used the Kinda Eclectic stamp set for my accents and some of the In Color designer paper stack.  Keeping it simple, was a perfect way to highlight the photo and the compact size is great for combining with your Project Life layouts in one of the 6×8 albums!

    So, see… even though colors that don’t seem as great on their own, often turn out awesome when you put them together with other colors.  Stick with the color families (so like the Stampin’ Up Brights, Regals, Subtles, etc) and you can be sure that the color tones and coordination will be great!

    Have you reserved your Product Sampler?

    With the new catalog officially here, make sure you have signed up for spot in my Product Shares!  Get a chance to try a little bit of ALL the new papers and accessories in a more manageable quantity and at a fraction of the cost!  It is a great way to find your new favorite and see what you love!

    Product Samplers ad

    >>> Get all the details and save your spot here <<<

    NWstamper signature_thumb[9]

    order online button for sig 3_thumb[4]

  • It’s Here! The New Annual Catalog is Live!

    I was up early to get in my first order of the new catalog and let me tell you, making decisions was super hard because my wishlist was too dang long! Smile  But I am so excited for what is coming plus the added bonus of extra hostess rewards is icing on the cake!  If you haven’t checked the new 2016 Annual Catalog out yet, here you go –

    2016-Annual-Catalog_ENG

    Check out the Annual Catalog PDF

    Oh, and while you are there, you may want to print out a wishlist, because you are going to need it! Smile

    image

    Get your wishlist sheet

    And if you really can’t decide which items you want, why not go for a product sampler?

    Annual Catalog Product Samplers

    Just in time for the new catalog, I have a couple ways for YOU to try out many of the new goodies from the catalog without having to buy everything!

    Every catalog release I offer samplers to give you a chance to try out a little of each of the new items so you can see which you love and which not so much – because there is usually at least 1 or 2 that surprise you. :)  There are the FOUR offerings or get a BONUS when you choose the I Want It All bundle!

    See all the Product Sampler Options here

    Extra Bonuses in June for You!

    So, like I mentioned, there are two great promotions going on now too:

    Have a big wishlist, well, let me help you out with that!
    In the month of June, Stampin’ Up is giving folks an extra $35 in free product when you place a $350 order or host a $350 party. That is $77 in free product.

    Or make it up to $450 and get $98 total in free product plus the chance to purchase any item at 50% off! (that is especially nice for some of the large bundles like the new Large Letters Alphabet stamps and dies)
    There are lots of options – from online parties, in-home private classes, and more – so just let me know and we can work together to get you that bonus! email me at jennifer@nwstamper.com

    The already great deal just got BETTER!  Two extra free stamp sets in June!
    Have I mentioned how much fun it is to be a demonstrator? 🙂  Whether you are in it for the community and discount on awesome products; or you are looking to make some money or even earn amazing trips and experiences – it is all great!
    Purchase the $99 starter kit and get:

    • $125 in your choice of ANY product from the new catalog
    • 2 extra FREE stamp sets (June only)
    • 8 catalogs and business supplies
    • Free shipping on all of that!
    • Access to my Fun n’ Crafty team facebook community
    • 20% or more off all your purchases
    • Join swaps, team challenges, incentives, and get in on sneak peeks for future releases!

    Have questions?  I’ve love to chat with you.

    Start picking out your starter kit

    NWstamper signature_thumb[9]

    order online button for sig 3_thumb[4]

  • 2016 OnStage Display Board Samples–Cucumber Crush!

    2016 OnStage Display Board Samples–Cucumber Crush!

    It’s Day 3 of my display samples share!  Since Friday I’ve been sharing projects I created for the 2016 OnStage Display Boards in Salt Lake City.  We’ve done Watermelon Wonder, Tip Top Taupe, and so today I’m going to be sharing projects highlighting ways to use your Cucumber Crush!

    Now, I know some folks LOVE this color because they love the bright colors… love bright green for Christmas, or if you are my neighbor, it is perfect for Tinkerbell punch art and party decorations!  No seriously, I didn’t realize how perfect of a match it was until we put the Tinkerbell picture next to the cardstock.  Fabulous!

    But if you are like me, sometimes lots of bright green is hard to work with, so I had to put in at least one card that isn’t quite so bold.  Smile  So that was this card.  I played with the Swirly Bird stamp set and Affectionately Yours designer paper to create a card that lets you use bold colors and highlight your favorite pattern papers (plus it is a great way to use up scraps!)

    But if you like bold… let’s go bold!  I mixed bright colors with the much loved Celebrate Today stamp set.  Though this also taught me that I need a new firm foam Night of Navy ink pad!  I still was working with my old linen style pad and the coverage just isn’t the same on these large, solid photopolymer stamps.

    How about a fun gift box?  Plus more copper foiled paper from the Affectionately Yours designer paper pack!

    And then, if you are going to go bold, let’s go CRAZY BOLD!  Smile  I mixed In Color designer paper with the Affectionately Yours designer paper to make a super bright and cheery layout that was great for our Tulip trip.  PS – yep, that is Swirly Bird to make those tulips!  I was pretty proud of that discovery. ha ha ha.  Just exactly what I needed to finish out the layout.

    And with that we have 2 Days Left to get your favorites from the Stampin’ Up Retirement List and I’ll have 2 more days of display board samples to share. Smile  Don’t forget, you can take advantage of my May Shopping Special until May 31st. :

    NWstamper signature_thumb[9]

    order online button for sig 3_thumb[4]

  • 2016 OnStage Display Board Samples–Tip Top Taupe!

    2016 OnStage Display Board Samples–Tip Top Taupe!

    display stamper

    Welcome to Day 2 of my display stamper shares for the 2016 OnStage Display Boards in Salt Lake City!  Yesterday I kicked things off by sharing the samples I made with Watermelon Wonder and today I’m back with a little Tip Top Taupe for you.

    As I mentioned yesterday, the way it worked is they asked me to create 20 samples, approximately 4 each focused on each of the returning In Colors.  I did a mix of cards, 3D projects, and scrapbook pages – and I plan to have full blog posts for each project down the road, but I couldn’t wait to share them as a collection now… especially as we start getting excited for the new Annual catalog coming out on June 1st!

    Let’s kick things off with one of my more simple but such a pretty color combination card –

    I don’t know why it took me so long to discover Tip Top Taupe, Elegant Eggplant, and Whisper White as an amazing color combination!  Seriously, you have to give it a try!

    Or step away from the delicate and elegant style to a more contemporary, all occasion look.  See, the You’re So Sweet stamp set isn’t just for going on the Mini treat bag (even though it has been in a great discounted bundle together… they go together fabulously but don’t hesitate to separate them.  I promise, they can handle it! Winking smile)

    I made a fun little box.  This guy is 2”x2” and was simply made by scoring cardstock and using the Scalloped Tag Topper…. did you spot that Affectionately Yours designer paper again?

    And then, another case where I had photos begging to be scrapbooked!  This was from a trip with my guy on Valentine’s Day weekend to San Francisco.  I thought the boat from the Swirly Bird stamp set was a perfect touch to go with the photos.  I also love making my titles using the Epic Alphabet!  Yes, I stamped each letter, but it is easy and goes by quick because they are the clear photopolymer.  Sadly, I didn’t realize it was being discontinued at the end of May… you better believe this one is staying in my collection too. Smile

    Well, I hope you enjoyed these ideas today!  I really enjoyed creating them and with the different styles, there are options for everyone!

    Join me tomorrow as I have more display board samples to share!

    NWstamper signature_thumb[9]

    order online button for sig 3_thumb[4]

  • 2016 OnStage Display Board Samples–Watermelon Wonder!

    2016 OnStage Display Board Samples–Watermelon Wonder!

    display stamper

    Woo Hoo! Can you feel the excitement?  The new Annual catalog is only a few days away from releasing and with it some super duper awesome new stamps, dies, and accessories I can’t wait to get my hands on! 

    I was lucky enough to be selected as a display stamper for the 2016 OnStage demonstrator event in Salt Lake City in April.  One of the big draws to these events is that you get to see tons of sneak peeks and even play with products from the upcoming catalog.  And to help that excitement, they put together big 8” display boards that show lots of ideas using some of those new products.  So as a display stamper, that meant I got to get some of the new sneak peek products early and got to create ideas to inspire my fellow crafters.

    Let me tell you… that is a bit of an intimidating challenge!  Sharing my style and hoping that it sparks inspiration in many talented crafters!  In the end, the display boards were AMAZING – you can see a photo album of all the display boards over on my Facebook page – http://facebook.com/nwstamper (just click on photos and you can find the display board album!).  But over the next 5 days, I’ll be sharing closer up photos of all of MY projects. Smile

    OnStage Display Board Samples – Watermelon Wonder


    So, I was asked to create 4 projects per returning In Color (so that is Watermelon Wonder, Delightful Dijon, Mint Macaron, Tip Top Taupe, and Cucumber Crush).  With a good mix of cards, 3D projects (ack! 3Ds… so hard for me!), and scrapbook layouts.  Today I’m sharing my Watermelon Wonder projects.  I’ll have follow up blog posts later with more project details for each one… but in the meantime, I hope this gives you some fun ideas to create with carry over and NEW SNEAK PEEK products!

    For example, this almost-no layer card using the new Swirly Bird stamp set and pretty striped In Color ribbon!

    I love the copper foiling in this Affectionately Yours designer paper that I used behind the butterflies for this luminary (just be sure you use one of those fake/electric tealights!)

    And I just LOVED this photo of Caitlin, so I had to work it into a scrapbook page. Smile  Plus it meant more playing with my Sunburst thinlit, Swirly bird stamp set, and that Affectionately Yours designer paper.

    I was always afraid of Watermelon Wonder because it was such a bright color, but it turns out that with the right mix of colors it can be oh so pretty!  Don’t you think?

    Want more of the Sunburst Thinlit?  The Class by Mail deadline is almost here!

    If you were thinking of trying out the Sunburst Sayings Class by mail or tutorial, just a quick reminder that I’m only going to accept registrations for the class by mail until May 31st (the tutorial will continue to be available after that).  So, make sure you’ve check it out and reserve your kit to learn and try out 5 different ideas using the Sunburst Thinlit die!

    Learn more about this fun Class by Mail!

    NWstamper signature_thumb[9]

    order online button for sig 3_thumb[4]

  • Woven Washi Thank You Card in Black & Pink

    Woven Washi Thank You Card in Black & Pink

    First, can I just say, Stamping friends are some of the best kind of friends!  I am always amazed at how kind, generous, and helpful so many of the people I meet through my stamping and crafting are.  Honestly, it is one of the big things that kept me active as a demonstrator as I went through pregnancies, state-to-state moves, pregnancies WHILE doing state-to-state moves. Smile  There were many times I thought about just letting things go but then I would think about the friends I’ve made and the communities I was a part of and I couldn’t bear to let them go.  Sure, I could slow down at times, but never drop out completely! 

    Well, I’m so glad I stuck around, not just for the amazing changes my business has brought to me and my family, but because of the friendships that have continued to grow. 

    Now, you may be wondering, why is Jennifer getting all sappy and rambling on and on about friendships and stamping?  Well, let me tell you!  It’s all because the card I have to share with you, only happened because of my amazing friend Sarah Naber and her sharing her creative genius with me for one of my technique classes.  Check it out:

    How cool is this card?  You see, she and I were talking about my technique class last month and I was talking about focusing on Washi Tape techniques.  She asked if I had ever done Woven Washi – the answer was no.  But then she told me about the technique and created this card for me to try and to share in my class.  See, told you she was cool!  I made a couple little tweaks to fit what I thought would work best in my class, but I loved her weaving and fun little accents.

    Now, I’ll admit the washi weaving takes a bit of time and a delicate hand, but don’t let that disuade you from giving it a try!  I started out by cutting my base cardstock that everything would be woven onto and then tearing off small pieces of washi tape that would cover the short side of the cardstock (so a bunch of 3”ish pieces in this example).  Only press them down on one side of your base cardstock – that is your anchored side – and then tear off a long strip of washi tape and start weaving it over one of the short strips, then under the next strip, over the following strip, under the one after that, etc.  Until you have the long strip woven into the little pieces.  Then grab another long piece and do it again.  Only this time start with under the first short strip, over the next short strip, under the following, and so on.

    When you are done, just tuck the edges around to the back of the base cardstock piece.  Pretty nifty, huh?

    And yes, I hate to say it, but this is another of those Fond Farewell cards!  Lots of the supplies are being discontinued… so doing wait too long to grab your favorite!

    Retiring Products on this Card

    • Watercolor Thank You stamp
    • Everyday Chic washi tape
    • It’s My Party Enamel Dots
    • Melon Mambo stitched satin ribbon

    I know, so sad right?  At least we know some amazing new stuff is coming on June 1st!

    While I'm Cruisin' Special ad

    Start shopping here

    NWstamper signature_thumb[9]

    order online button for sig 3_thumb[4]

    Product List

    Watercolor Thank You Wood-Mount Stamp Set

    $9.00
    Everyday Chic Designer Washi Tape

    $8.00
    It's My Party Enamel Dots

    $4.00
    Rhinestone Basic Jewels Embellishments

    $5.00
    Pearl Basic Jewels Embellishments

    $5.00
    2-1/2" Circle Punch

    $18.00
    Melon Mambo 3/8" Stitched Satin Ribbon

    $9.00
    Silver Glimmer Paper

    $5.00
    Melon Mambo 8-1/2" X 11" Card Stock

    $7.00
    Basic Black 8-1/2" X 11" Card Stock

    $7.00
    Whisper White 8-1/2" X 11" Card Stock

    $8.50
    Melon Mambo Classic Stampin' Pad

    $6.50
    Smoky Slate Classic Stampin' Pad

    $6.50
    Sponge Daubers

    $5.00
    Stampin' Dimensionals

    $4.00
    Paper Snips Scissors

    $10.00

  • Fun Birthday Card with Big Designer Candles!

    Fun Birthday Card with Big Designer Candles!

    So, I hope you’ve been enjoying all the blog posts recently, full of technique and project ideas!  As I headed off on my big European adventure on the Stampin’ Up incentive trip, I knew I had so many project that I’ve loved lately and wanted to share.  Plus I’ve been meaning to get back on track with posting at least every other day here on the blog… so what better way to start the habit than having a post-a-day heading all the way into June!  I have more fun planned for you coming up including starting on Friday, I’ll be sharing each day the projects I made for Stampin’ Up displays boards at OnStage in Salt Lake City.  They are full of sneak peeks and fun scrapbooking and 3D project ideas in addition to my many card projects for the boards.  So, be sure to come back and check it out.

    Psst – did you know?  You can subscribe to my blog and get an email in your inbox each time I post a new blog post!  You get the full post with all the details and pictures that you can view at your convenience or save for later!  Just sign up to subscribe to the blog by entering your email address in the Subscribe to the Blog box on the right side of the blog. Smile  –>

    Ok, now back to today’s super fun card!

    So, this card came together because I wanted to do a birthday card for my Fond Farewell card class (this was my recent card class where I focused on having one last hurrah with many of the retiring product that Stampin’ Up is discontinuing at the end of the month).  But I wanted to do something different.  I had seen cards where people had made big candles, but many of those used a stamp set I didn’t have and fussy cut and image I didn’t have.  So I decided to get creative!

    Enter the Bird Builder punch!

    Yes, that is right!  See these candles?  The flames on top are the wings of the bird from that punch. 

    And for the candles, instead of cutting out a stamped image, I just grabbed the It’s My Party designer paper stack and picked out a few fun patterns and cut them into rectangles for my candle sticks.  Easy Peasy!  One tip though- I did end up sponging the edges of the patterned paper because I found with busy patterns, you really need some ink or something around the edge to help define the edge of the shape.  Otherwise it tends to blur into the background easily.

    Can we also please have a moment of silence for my beloved 2 1/2” Circle punch?

    …..

    Seriously, I love love love my big circle with the convenience of a punch.  I know there are circle framelits but I still am sad about this punch being on the retirement list.  Oh well,  at least I have mine!  Better believe I’m keeping that puppy around for future crafting. Smile

    Oh, and don’t let me forget, I wanted to share what brings these candles to life – why the clear Wink of Stella brush of course!  Just a quick swipe along one side of the wing/flame and you get some sparkle to really twinkle up your candlelight!

    It’s pretty, it’s fun… Sadly a lot of this card is retiring.  Here is a list of what is going away at the end of the month so you don’t miss out on anything!  (See the bottom of the post for links to any of these items in the online store)

    Retiring Items on this Card

    • Bird Builder Punch
    • 2 1/2” circle punch
    • It’s My Party designer series paper
    • Decorative Dots embossing folder

    While I'm Cruisin' Special ad

    Start shopping here


    NWstamper signature_thumb[9]

    order online button for sig 3_thumb[4]

    Product List

    Suite Sayings Wood-Mount Stamp Set

    $29.00
    Suite Sayings Clear-Mount Stamp Set

    $21.00
    It's My Party Designer Series Paper Stack

    $26.00
    Clear Wink Of Stella Glitter Brush

    $8.00
    Builder Bird Punch

    $18.00
    Banner Triple Punch

    $23.00
    2-1/2" Circle Punch

    $18.00
    Big Shot

    $110.00
    Decorative Dots Textured Impressions Embossing Folder

    $7.50
    Crushed Curry 8-1/2" X 11" Card Stock

    $7.00
    Mint Macaron 8-1/2" X 11" Cardstock

    $7.00
    Sahara Sand 8-1/2" X 11" Card Stock

    $7.00
    Whisper White 8-1/2" X 11" Card Stock

    $8.50
    Early Espresso Classic Stampin' Pad

    $6.50
    Sahara Sand Classic Stampin' Pad

    $6.50
    Sponge Daubers

    $5.00
    Stampin' Dimensionals

    $4.00