Donna's Stamping Adventures

New Catalogue

2011-09-06T18:52:00.006+10:00

Wow how exciting is September!! The new 2011 -2012 Ideas Book and Catalogue has been launched and it is full of wonderful new stamps and products. One of the many new things is fabric. Yes that's right we now have a fabric range that coordinates with other Stampin' Up! products. To view the new catalogue on line click on the image on the side of my blog. If you would like your very own copy then please contact me for details.

Another very exciting change in the new catalogue is the hostess benefits. There has been an overhaul of the hostess benefits and you now have a lot more flexibility with hostess dollars and the chance to earn products at 50% off, so if you are interested in earning hostess dollars contact me to learn how.

Also in September Stampin' Up! have a fantastic Mini Starter Kit promotion, where you can join the Stampin' Up! family for only $169 and enjoy all the wonderful benefits of being a demonstrator - see flyer on side of my blog. And if you would like more details feel free to contact me.

My order of new goodies hasn't arrived yet (I was expecting it today, but no luck - fingers crossed for tomorrow), but I have two projects I made with sneak peak products. My plan is to have time this coming weekend to play with new stuff (including fabric) so there will be more projects to show soon.

Stamp Set: Pennant Parade, Sincere Saluations
Cardstock: 2011-2013 In colors (Indigo Island, Pool Party, Calypso Coral, Lucky Limeade and Wisteria Wonder) Whisper White
Ink: 2011-2013 In colors
Accessories: Lattice embossing folder, Petitie Pennants Builder Punch

Stamp Set: Pennant Parade
Cardstock: Wisteria Wonder, Flirtatious Specialty Designer Series Paper
Accessories: Petitie Pennants Builder Punch, On Board Merry Medley, Beautiful Wings Embosslits Die, Basic Pearls.

My Husband's Birthday

2011-08-17T10:13:00.002+10:00

Well for the couple of weeks leading up to Andrew's 40th Birthday he was a little, shall we say "in denial"...So I decided not to put a big 40 on the front of his card, but I couldn't resist making it look "aged". Since we had already celebrated Birthdays in Port Douglas the actual day of his birthday was some what low key (just the way he wanted!). We had a most pleasant afternoon with a long lunch at Jack Rabbit Winery. The kids had a great time running around while we enjoyed delicious food and wine on a rare sunny winters day!!

Stamp Sets: Lovely as a Tree, Teeny Tiny Sentiments and Woodgrain (difficult to see in photo - background on Early Espresso)
Cardstock: Crumb Cake, Old Olive, Very Vanilla and Early Espresso
Ink and Markers: Early Espresso and Old Olive, Tea Stain (from disressing kit).
Accesories: Distressing kit, Satin Ribbon, Brad, Oval and Word Window Punches.

New Stuff

2011-08-10T13:25:00.004+10:00

My sneak peak preorder and the brand new 2011-2012 Ideas Book and Catalogue arrived on Monday....all I can say is wow!! Whenever a new catalogue is launched I sit down and write a first instinct wish list. This year it is quite a long list which suprised me. I honestly thought since it is my 4th new catalogue as a demonstrator (and I have lots of stuff) there wouldn't be too much must have new stamps and accessories. Well I was wrong!!! There are some great new stamp sets and I think I love nearly all the new Designer Series Papers and as for the ribbons....I could go on and on. So if you want to see what I am all excited about contact me to order your very own copy of the new catalogue which goes live on September 1st.

Unfortunately I am working (in my real job) extra hours at the moment and so I haven't had much time to play with my new stuff, but I managed to get these 2 cards made on Monday night.
This first one I made using the new In Colors.

Stamp sets: Pennant Parade
Cardstock: Calypso Coral, Pool Party, Lucky Limeade, Wisteria Wonder, Island Indigo and Whisper White
Ink: Calypso Coral, Pool Party, Luck Limeade, Wisteria Wonder and Island Indigo
Accessories: Petite Pennants Builder Punch, Itty Bitty Punch, Hemp Twine and Basic Jewel Rhinestones

The second card was a set I saw at convention and knew I would have to have it, so it was a definate on my preorder.
Stamp Sets: Forever Young, Teeny Tiny Sentiments
Cardstock: Lucky Limeade, Whisper White and Early Espresso DSP
Ink: Lucky Limeade and Early Espresso
Accessories: Scallops Dot Ribbon (Chocolate Chip), Large Oval and Word Window Punches, Big Shot, Beautiful Wings Embosslit Die and Basic Jewel Pearls.

Hopefully I will get time to play more over the coming weeks so check back to see more new products.

Also our next Stampathon is on Saturday 22nd October 2011. It will be a Christmas theme so keep the date free and look out for more info soon.

Sneak Peak

2011-08-03T13:48:00.002+10:00

It is a very exciting time of year for Stampin' Up! The retiring list has been released (click on the link on the side to check it out) and August is your last chance to order anything on this list. Because on the 1st September our brand new 2011-2012 Ideas Book and Catalogue is available.

One of the fantastic benefits of being a demonstrator is we get sneak peaks at new products and are able to preorder select items from the new catalogue. I have already placed my preorder and am hoping it will arrive soon!!!
When I attended convention in May we were given this new set which will be available in September so this is my first sneak peak.

Stamp Sets: Creative Elements, Teeny Tiny Sentiments
Cardstock: Wild Wasabi, Daffodil Delight, Pacific Point and Whisper White
Ink and markers: Wild Wasabi, Daffodil Delight, Real Red and Pacific Point
Accessories: Basic Pearls, crimper and spritzer.

As soon as my preorder arrives I will make some more sneak peak samples to show you, including the new in colors!!

Monsters and Weddings

2011-07-23T17:42:00.003+10:00

I have two projects to share with you today. The first one is a Monster Birthday Card made by my 7 year old son Hamish. He had lots of fun creating this and was so very proud of the end result.

Stamp sets: Make a Monster, Teeny Tiny Sentiments
Cardstock: Real Red, Pacific Point, Wild Wasabi, Daffodil Delight and Whisper White
Ink (and markers): Basic Gray, Real Red, Wild Wasabi, Daffodil Delight, Pacific Point, Tempting Turquoise and Tangerine Tango.

This next card is a wedding card I made for a girl at work (she is getting married next week).
As you can see I am loving my lastest edition (Elements of Style).

Stamp Sets: Elements of Style, Teeny Tiny Sentiments
Cardstock: Very Vanilla and Riding Hood Red
Ink (and Markers): Going Gray, Riding Hood Red, Crumb Cake, Pear Pizzazz
Accessories: Dazzling Diamonds

Port Douglas

2011-07-20T19:24:00.005+10:00

1971 was a good year!! And since both Andrew and I, and quite a few of our close friends were born that year we decided to celebrate in style!!! So at the start of the year we began planning a holiday. It ended up with 3 couples going away (5 out of the 6 turn 40 this year) with no children to Port Douglas. As the birthdays are scattered throughout the year we settled on the middle. As you can see from the photos below we had a wonderful time and certainly did celebrate in style!!
Now that we are back there will be more stamping to come - I promise.....

Wedding Invitations

2011-07-14T14:43:00.004+10:00

This post has been a long time coming due to computer difficulties, for some unknown reason blogger just didn't want to upload my photos, it took several attempts over the past week and now as I type this it is having trouble with the autosave and telling me to reload so here goes again!! All seems to be working for now.

This is one of the projects I had been working on, but had to wait until the invitations had been sent out to post.
These are invitations I designed and made for my best friends up coming Wedding. You can't really tell from the photos, but they have a lovely shimmer from the champagne mist shimmer paint (made into a spray with Isocol)

Stamp Sets: Thoughts and Prayers, Sincere Salutations
Cardstock: Very Vanilla and Riding Hood Red
Ink: Basic Grey and Riding Hood Red
Accessories: Big Shot and Vintage Wallpaper embossing folder, basic pearls and rhinestones, Champagne Mist Shimmer Paint and the little hearts are made using itty bitty flower punch cut into quaters.

Elements of Style

2011-07-12T16:21:00.003+10:00

Not sure what took me so long to get this stamp set. It has been on my wish list for a long time, but just never made it to the top. Until the Stampin' Up! Convention in May. There were so many beautiful swaps and demonstrations using it I came away having to buy it.
This card I made for a friend's birthday recently and I am sure there will be plenty more samples using this set as it has fast become a favourite.

Stamp Sets: Elements of Style, Teeny Tiny Sentiments
Cardstock: Marina Mist, Old Olive and Real Red
Stamp pads: Early Espresso, Real Red (and marker) Marina Mist (marker)
Accessories: Big Shot with Beautiful Butterfly Bigz Die, Red Glitter (bit hard to see in photo).

70's party

2011-06-19T14:08:00.008+10:00

Last night was my brother-in-law's 40th Birthday Party with a 70's theme. I forgot to take a photo of the card I made for him so I thought I would show you how we dressed up 70's style.

I have a few projects on the go at the moment so check back soon.

Note to self - Remember to take photos of everything!!

Artistic Etchings

2011-06-10T14:58:00.003+10:00

Brrrrr, winter has certainly arrived here!! It is a great excuse to stay indoors and do some stamping. These 2 samples I actually made last year when the current catalogue first came out. It is one of my favourite new sets Artistic Etchings, mainly because it reminds me of my favourite city!!! (Oh how nice it would be to be there right now!!!)

Back to Blogging!!!!

2011-06-05T11:50:00.008+10:00

Is there anyone out there!!!!???? It has been soooo long since my last blog post I have forgotten what to do!! Where has the time gone? Why haven't I blogged? What have I been doing??
Well they are all really good questions.
I guess the short answer to all is everyday life just keeps getting busier. My blog posts were the easiest thing to stop finding time for, and as more time past I just didn't even think about blogging at all. Then I went to the Stampin' Up! convention in Melbourne a few weeks ago and was so inspired I decided "I need to start up my blog again!!" so here I am.
I am not going to bore you with what's been happing to my life in the last 18 months, I'll just give you a quick update of where I am now.
Possibly the biggest change to our life has been buying a business. The process commenced late last year and after much negotiation and some "stress" my husband and I finally took ownership of "Jennings Custom Steel" on the 4th April 2011. As I now have to somehow fit book keeping into my daily chores, my stamping time has decreased....But my plan is this is only temporary as I get more proficient at book keeping, stamping time will again increase.
As I mentioned I did manage to get to the Stampin' Up! Convention this year and it was absolutely fantastic. We were treated to some great presentations and WOW projects and even got some sneak peaks at what is coming in the next catalogue.
Then last week my downline Nerida and I held our second stampathon. This one was a fundraiser for Breast Cancer. As a fun finish to the day we asked all the participants to use their scraps to make a bra card. So to finish this post I am going to show you those wonderful bra cards. Thank you for coming back to check on me and I promise I will be posting many more fun projects in the very near future.

Catch Up

2009-10-28T11:35:00.004+11:00

I have lots to show you today as I have finally found some time to take photos this morning. The last few weeks have been fairly busy and the calendar is almost full for the next couple of months also. Everyone I speak to seems to be just as busy if not busier!!

Anyway first of all I would like to say a big Thank You to everyone who supported my Pink Ribbon Breakfast. We had a great Pink evening on Monday and so far I have raised approx $220 for the National Breast Cancer Foundation. I hope everyone who attended on Monday night had a fun time for this worth while cause. I would like to say a big Thanks to those who were unable to make it, but donated on line. You are able to donate on line until the end of the month, just click here for more details.

Now for the projects.

We made two pink projects on Monday night.

This is a box in a bag.

Stamp set: Great Friend (Spring Mini)

Ink: Pink Pirouette

Cardstock: Pink Pirouette, Whisper White and Pink Pirouette Prints DSP

Accessories: Scallop Edge Punch, Round Tab Punch, Clear Rhinestone Brads and Pink Pirouette Striped Ribbon

This is a joy fold card (below you can see how it opens)

Stamp Set: Pocket Silhouettes

Ink: Kiwi Kiss, Rose Red and Pretty In Pink

Cardstock: Rose Red, Pretty in Pink, Whisper White and Raspberry Tart DSP

Accessories: Scallop Circle Punch, Trio Flower Punch, Pretty In Pink Taffeta Ribbon and Jumbo Brads (Spring Mini).

The flower is made from 2 scallop circles (which I saw at a demo at our recent regionals)

Next I have a male 6oth Birthday card I made for my Aunty's husband.
Stamp sets: Unchartered Territory (Spring Mini) and Best Friend Numbers (retired)

Ink: Versamark

Cardstock: Kraft, Baja Breeze, Chocolate Chip and Parisian Breeze SDSP (Spring Mini)

Accessories: Silver embossing powder, Curly Label Punch, Large Oval Punch and Jumbo Brads (Spring Mini).

Finally I have some Christmas cards from the last Stamp-a-Stack I held earlier this month.

The first 2 are different versions of the same card.

Stamp sets: Tree Timmings (Spring Mini) Best Yet (Level 1 hostess set) and Baroque Motifs.

Ink: Real Red, Baja Breeze, Old Olive, Chocolate Chip and Whisper White Craft Ink.

Cardstock: Real Red, Chocolate Chip, Whisper White and Ski Slope DSP (Spring Mini)

Accessories: Scallop Oval Punch (Spring Mini), Large Oval Punch, Scallop Edge Punch and Whisper White Taffeta Ribbon.

Stamp Set: Good Cheer (Spring Mini)

Ink: Always Artichoke

Cardstock: Riding Hood Red, Always Artichoke and Sahara Sand

Accessories: Stampin Pastels and Riding Hood Red 1 1/4" Striped Riding Hood Red Ribbon.

Hopefully that gets me up to date.

Remember the Spring Mini finishes on the 30th November so if there is anything on your wish list you only have a month left to order.

Check back over the coming weeks as I just received the Summer Mini in the mail yesterday and all I am going to say is my wish list is very long and I can't wait to show you some sneak peaks.

Breast Cancer Awarness Month

2009-10-10T18:40:00.002+11:00

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and October 26th is Pink Ribbon Day.

This year I am hosting a Pink Ribbon Breakfast (in the evening). It will be a pink workshop where people are asked to wear something pink and we will make pink projects.

Date: Monday 26th October 2009

Time: 7:30pm

Place: Lara

Cost: $5 (which will be donated to National Breast Cancer Foundation).

So if you would like to come along for a fun night stamping while supporting a worthy cause please contact me

If you are unable to come to the Pink Ribbon Breakfast, but would like to make a donation please visit my personal Pink Ribbon Breakfast web page here.

Kids workshops

2009-10-03T08:47:00.003+10:00

This week has been lots of fun. On Wednesday and Thursday I held kids workshops. The kids were very creative and really enjoyed making the projects.

Each child made 3 things each. A bookmark, a pencil holder and a card. I am still working on the photos of the finished projects, but here is a photo of work in progress and then the 2 groups of wonderful children with their creations.

Thanks to all who came along and helped make these 2 workshops so successful and so much fun.

What I love about craft

2009-09-30T16:18:00.002+10:00

Anyone who is involved in any type of craft will understand.

Last night I did a workshop for a friend. She sent out invitations and then almost cancelled as she hadn't had much response. Then at the last minute a couple more people decided to come along. It was a lovely group of 6 ladies. Out of the 6, 2 had been to previous workshops, 1 was a regular card maker and 3 were new to it all.

Well the thing I love about craft: the joy, excitement and sense of pride you see on peoples faces when they create something themselves.

Below are the 3 cards we made at the workshop.

Stamp set: Simply Said

Cardstock: Basic Gray, Old Olive, Urban Garden DSP

Ink: Baja Breeze, Not Quite Navy

Accessories: Scallop punch, 13/8 circle punch, Baja Breeze ribbon

Stamp Sets: Circle Circus, Short and Sweet

Cardstock: Certainly Celery, Kraft, Regal Rose, Tempting Turquoise

Ink: Versamark, Certainly Celery, Chocolate Chip, Regal Rose, Tempting Turquoise

Accessories: Circle punches, Certainly Celery ribbon, Rhinestone brads and jumbo brads

Stamp Sets: Cheep talk, Best yet

Cardstock: Pacific Point, Kiwi Kiss, Good Morning Sunshine DSP

Ink: Chocolate Chip and Old Olive markers, Pacific Point

Accessories: Hodgepodge Hardware.

World Card Making Day

2009-09-27T17:11:00.003+10:00

World Card Making Day is officially on 3rd October. Throughout the month of October there are special events to celebrate.

My WCM Day event is a Christmas Stamp-A-Stack

Date: Monday 5th October

Time: 7:30pm

Cost: $15 for 10 cards.

Place: Lara

Below is a sneak peak at the special offer available from Stampin' Up! during October.

When you purchase a simply sent card elements set you can get 20% off the matching stamp set. (page 140-141 2009/2010 Catalogue).

If you are interested in attending my WCM day event please contact me

Excuses Excuses!!!!

2009-09-24T20:23:00.004+10:00

Wow what has happened to the last couple of months.
August just flew by and I always knew September was going to be busy, but I can't believe it has been so long since my last post on here.

I did try to do a quick post about 3 or 4 weeks ago, but my excuse is my husband changed web browsers (because the old one kept dropping out or freezing or something) and I just could not navigate the new browser in the limited time I had so I gave up hence no post.

Then September started and between my in laws 4oth Wedding Anniversary, a trip to Sydney for work and then my mother in laws 6oth Birthday there really hasn't been a lot of spare time.

But excuses aside I have had some breathing space this week, so it is time to catch up.

There are 2 cards here we made at the August workshop for Masculine Cards

Stamp Set: Uncharted Territory (Spring Mini) and Occasional Greetings
Cardstock: Basic Black, Very Vanilla and Vellum Cardstock.
Ink: Going Grey, Baja Breeze and Night of Navy
Accessories: Brayer, Twill tape, white gel pen and markers
Stamp Sets: Sense of Time (Spring Mini) and Occasional Greetings
Cardstock: Chocolate Chip, Very vanilla and Sahara Sand
Ink: Chocolate Chip and Saraha Sand
Accessories: Circle punch, brad, Double Stitched Chocolate Chip ribbon

The next two were for an in house workshop I did in August.

Stamp Sets: Cheep Talk and Short and Sweet
Cardstock: Chocolate Chip, Cameo Coral, Certainly Celery and Pink Flamingo DSP
Ink: Tempting Turquoise, Certainly Celery, Chocolate Chip and Cameo Coral Stampin write markers
Accessories: Eyelet Border Punch, Chocolate Chip 5/8 ribbon

Stamp Set: Just Beachy (Spring Mini)
Cardstock: So Saffron, Pacific Point
Ink: Basic Grey, So Saffron, Tangerine Tango and Pacific Point.
Accessories: Metal Edge Tag and So Saffron Striped ribbon.

We also had our first Calendar workshop at the end of August. It was great fun and I am really looking forward to seeing the finished products in a couple of months.

There is lots more to come really soon so I will do my best to keep on top of things. My next post will be details of the up coming World Card Making Day.

Spring Mini

2009-08-01T10:06:00.006+10:00

The wonderful Spring Mini Catalogue starts today!!!
It is full of great new stamp sets and accessories that are only available for a limited time.
You can view the catalogue on line or if you would like a free copy contact me and I will send one to you.

August workshop - Spring Mini Catalogue Launch.

Date: Monday 10th August 2009

Time: 7:30pm

Cost: $5

We will be making three cards using new products. Two of the cards will be masculine cards, which would be great for Father's Day (which is coming up soon).

I thought I would share a couple of Christmas Cards with you. A hostess chose to do a Christmas stamp - a - stack workshop last month and these are the 2 designs they made (5 of each).

Both of these were designed from inspiration I got with the Christmas Swap I participated in recently.
Stamps: So Swirly wheel, Circle Circus and Many Merry Messages
Cardstock: Kraft, Kiwi Kiss, Riding Hood Red and Very Vanilla
Ink: Rising Hood Red, Kiwi Kiss and Old Olive
Accessories: Circle scallop punch, 1 1/4" circle punch, brads, very vanilla ribbon.

Stamps: Snow swirled
Cardstock: Whisper White, Real Red
Ink: White Craft ink, Real Red
Accessories: Spritzer with Going Grey marker, 1/2" circle punch and brads.

Catching up with Friends

2009-07-18T15:21:00.005+10:00

Last night I went out for a wonderful dinner with four friends. We all did our nursing training together and have remained good friends. We had planned to have a dinner catch up every three months, but over the years the space between dinner dates has kept getting longer and it is actually over 12 months since our last. So there was lots of catching up to be done. It is amazing how good friends never change and we seemed to just take off from last time as though it was last week.
As it had been so long between drinks (so to speak) I took a little gift for each of them. I had bought them an envirosax (designer reusable bags) each and wanted to put them in something nice. Therefore I came up with these little purses. I was really pleased with how they turned out and really simple to make.
Judging by the comments the girls really liked them too.

The tags were the same as some Christmas ones I made last year and I just love how simple they are.
My next workshop is Stamping on Candles and we will also make these tags to match. It would make a really lovely gift so if you haven't booked in yet contact me for details.

And yes I have changed the look, needed a change from the green what do you think?

Kids Cards

2009-07-15T11:35:00.009+10:00

Last night I held a kids card workshop. We made 4 cards (2 girl and 2 boy).

The first two we used All in the family for both a girl and a boy card. For the clothes on the little people we stamped onto Designer Series Paper and cut out the dress of the girl and the top and shorts of the boy.
Stamp Sets: All in the family, Short and Sweet
Cardstock: Whisper White, Going Grey, Tempting turquoise and Pink Flamingo DSP
Ink: Basic Grey and markers for colouring.
Accessories: Tag punches, circle punches, jumbo eyelets and Real Red striped ribbon

Stamp Sets: All in the family, Family accessories and Occasions for all.
Cardstock: So Saffron, Riding Hood Red, Whisper White and Washington Apple DSP
Ink: Basic Grey, markers for colouring

The second 2 cards we used Bugs and Kisses to make a boy and a girl card.
Stamp Set: Bugs and Kisses and Seeing Spots
Cardstock: Pacific Point, Chocolate Chip, Whisper White and Good Morning Sunshine DSP
Ink: Kiwi Kiss, Chocolate Chip and Summer Sun
Accessories: Build-A-Brad, silver brads, circle punches, sponge

Stamp Set: Bugs and Kisses
Cardstock: Pumpkin pie, Chocolate Chip, Pink Pirouette, Whisper White and Sweet Always DSP
Ink: Regal Rose and Pumpkin Pie
Accessories: 2 way glue pen, dazzling diamonds, Flower Fusion, Rhinestone brad, Square punch and Spiral punch.

Also on the weekend was my niece's 7th Birthday so I thought while I was showing kids cards I could include this card I made for her. It was a fun card to make.
Stamp Set: Cheep Talk
Cardstock:Rose Red, Whisper White, Close to Cocoa, Good Morning Sunshine DSP and Bella Rose DSP
Ink: Chocolate Chip, Old Olive, Rose Red and Versamark.
Accessories: On Board So Tweet and Timeless Type, Scallop Punch, Flower Designer Brads, Fine Supernova Glitter and Heat and Stick Powder

School Holidays

2009-07-11T11:48:00.007+10:00

It is coming to the end of the school holidays here in Victoria. I always seem to have mixed feelings at this time as I am looking forward to getting back into routine, but at the same time have enjoyed spending time with the kids (without constantly nagging them to get ready for school).
This week we had a short break in Echuca. We were very lucky with the weather and enjoyed a lovely sunny day on the paddlesteamer and exploring the Echuca Port.

I also have a couple of cards to show you. These are the congratulations cards I made for Mum and Dad a couple of weeks ago. Since I was in Bendigo during the week I quickly snapped these photos (as I forgot to take photos before giving the cards). As I mentioned in an earlier post Mum and Dad received Paul Harris Fellow awards at Rotary and so I decided to make 2 cards the same only in different colours.

Stamp Sets: Trendy trees and Say it with Scallops.
The first one is using Washington Apple Designer Series Paper and co-ordinating colours.
The second one is using Urban Oasis and co-ordinating colours.

Also last week I received my pre order for the upcoming Spring Mini. So keep an eye out for some sneak peeks. The Spring Mini starts on 1st August.

First week down

2009-07-03T18:57:00.002+10:00

Well the first week of the school holidays has flown by. I have managed to spend some time with the kids. We have been bowling, shopping and today we went into the city to Disney On Ice Princess Wishes. Both of them loved it, although I think Hamish may have enjoyed the train and tram ride just as much as the show.

Earlier this week I sent off my first swap. The picture below is the completed swaps ready to be sent. It has meant that each day I have been receiving a few cards in the letterbox in return and I have really enjoyed seeing what everyone else came up with (there are some very talented and creative demonstrators).
On Sunday it was a friend's birthday so I dropped this card in her letterbox. It is hard to see in the picture, but there is a little bit of dazzling diamonds on the dragonflies, which made them very pretty

StampSets: Organic Grace (level 1 hostess set), Sincere Salutations
Cardstock: Basic Grey, Baja Breeze, Whisper White and Hand Drawn DSP (from level 3 hostess set).
Ink: Basic Grey, Riding Hood Red, Baja Breeze and Old Olive
Accessories: Hodgepodge Hardware, Baja Breeze Ribbon, Designer Label Punch and Dazzling Diamonds.

July Workshops

Again there will be 2 workshops at my house in Lara this month.

Kids Cards (Make 4 kids cards 2 girl and 2 boy)

Date: Tuesday 14^th July

Time: 7:30pm

Cost: $6

Stamping on Candles (Learn how to stamp on a candle and make a matching gift card)

Date: Thursday 30^th July

Time: 7:30pm

Cost: $6

Bookings are essential for both workshops

Also I know some people have tried to leave comments on my blog lately, but have been unable to. I am pleased to say I have found a setting that had mysteriously changed and I have now hopefully corrected it, so please feel free to leave a comment. If you are still experiencing problems please e-mail me so I can fix it.

Another 2 weeks....

2009-06-27T17:25:00.002+10:00

Well so much for not leaving it so long between posts. It has been a busy 2 weeks, both at work and at home, but it is now school holidays (hooray!!!) and hopefully the next 2 weeks will involve some down time.

On Monday 22nd June I held a Christmas Stamp-a-stack. These are the 2 card designs and everyone made 5 of each.
The first one we used the glitter background technique. It was lots of fun and we ended up with glitter everywhere.

Stamp Sets: Snow Swirled, So Swirly Jumbo Wheel
Cardstock: Riding Hood Red, Certainly Celery and Whisper White
Ink: Versamark, Old Olive and Riding Hood Red.
Accessories: Heat and Stick Powder, Fine Glitter and Rhinestone Brads
The second one I designed for a demonstrator swap. The rules were non traditional Christmas either non traditional colours or a non Christmas stamp set or a combination of both.

Stamp Sets: Circle Circus, Many Merry Messages
Cardstock: Chocolate Chip, Pink Pirouette, Baja Breeze and Whisper White
Ink: Pink Pirouette, Baja Breeze, Ruby Red and Chocolate Chip
Accessories: Spritzer, Scallop Edge Punch, Circle Punch, Striped Ribbon (Pink Pirouette, Baja Breeze and Riding Hood Red).

Below is a card I made for a 2 year old boy using the sketch challenge from Splitcoast Stampers
Stamp Sets: Wild About You, Occasional Greetings and Best Friends Numbers (retired)
Cardstock: Sahara Sand, Ruby Red, Baja Breeze, Whisper White and Sweet Slumber Specialty DSP.
Ink: Baja Breeze and Ruby Red
Accessories: Button Bouquet.

I actually made a few more cards over the past 2 weeks, one for Mum's Birthday and two congratulations cards for Mum and Dad. Wednesday 24th June was Mum's Birthday and also a special night for both Mum and Dad at their Rotary Changover. Mum received a Paul Harris Fellow and Dad received a Paul Harris Sapphire Pin. The awards were a suprise to both of them as was my sister, brother-in-law, Aunty and her husband, my husband and myself arriving at the dinner. But in the rush to get to Bendigo (2 hour drive) I forgot to take photos of the cards. I will try to remember to get photos of them next time I am in Bendigo and then I can post them here for you to see.

What's Happening in June

2009-06-13T17:25:00.005+10:00

Where does the time go?? I am sorry I haven't been a very good blogger lately I really have no excuse except everyday life is taking priority (and right now I should be folding washing as my husband is cooking tea!!! - don't tell him where I am).

So what is happening in June.
Well I have held one workshop where we made these carousel note photo purses.
Also for June and July any hostess with sales over $600 will receive an extra $40 of free product. This is in addition to the other wonderful hostess benefits.
So if you were thinking of hosting a workshop for a few friends now is a great time so contact me to book a date.

The second workshop I am holding in June is a Christmas Stamp a Stack. Yes I know it is June, but every year I intend to start early with my Christmas cards and next thing I know it is December, so I decided if I am holding Christmas workshops it forces me to start my own Christmas cards. It must be a good idea as the workshop is booking out fast so if you are interested please contact me ASAP.

Date: Mon 22nd June
Time: 7:30pm
Location: My house Lara.
Class: 10 Christmas cards for $15

Be warned I have just designed the 2 cards and 1 of them is very non traditional. I joined a demonstrator swap this week for non traditional Christmas cards and as anyone who knows me well will appreciate what a challenge this is for me.

I will try to be a better blogger and not leave so long between posts next time.

Only a few more days

2009-05-27T14:15:00.003+10:00

As it is almost the end of May it means you only have a few more days to take advantage of the wonderful May special. Buy 3 Designer Series Papers and receive a 4th one free.

Now I just have a few cards to show today.

The first one I made to play with the circle circus stamp set and then I gave it to my niece for her birthday.
Stamp Set: Circle Circus
Ink: Riding Hood Red, Pink Pirouette, Baja Breeze and Kiwi Kiss
Card stock: Pink Pirouette, Chocolate Chip, Riding Hood Red, Baja Breeze DSP.
Accessories: Baja Breeze striped ribbon

This second one was designed for a workshop and then given to Mum for Mother's Day.
Stamp Set: Pocket Silhouettes
Ink: Kiwi Kiss, Baja Breeze
Cardstock: Not Quite Navy, Kiwi Kiss, Chocolate Chip, Baja Breeze and Urban Garden DSP
Accessories: Baja Breeze striped ribbon, scallop edge punch, earth elements brads

The last one I designed for a male birthday card.
Stamp Sets: Trendy Trees, Short and Sweet
Ink: Baja Breeze, Basic Black
Cardstock: Baja Breeze, Urban Oasis DSP

I guess it is clear now that Baja Breeze has become a favourite colour. It wasn't until I was typing this that I realised I had used it in all three of these cards.

Hostess Appreciation Day

2009-05-17T09:03:00.004+10:00

Yesterday I held my first hostess appreciation day. During my first 12 months as a Stampin' Up! demonstrator I had 17 hostesses, with some of them having more than 1 workshop, so I wanted to thank them for kick starting my Stampin' Up! adventure.

We made 2 make and takes (I will post photos of them later), I had my retired stock for sale at bargain prices and we had a lovely relaxing afternoon stamping.

As a thank you each person who attended received a goodie bag pictured below. The stamp sets used are circle circus and pocket silhouettes.
I also had some door prizes with first prize including all you see below. It was my first attempt at stamping on a candle and I was thrilled with how easy it was, therefore I will be doing a workshop on it some time soon. The stamp set used on the candle is Embrace Life and on the book I have used A Flower for all Seasons.
This is a photo of the goodie bags grouped together.

The table was set up with all the bargains I had for sale.
After a busy morning cleaning the house this is me setting up.
Thanks again to all my wonderful hostesses. I had a great day and am planning to make it an annual event. So if you would like to be a part of it next time all you need to do is have a workshop with me over the coming 12 months.

Turning 40!!!

2009-05-11T21:17:00.002+10:00

No not me!!! My big sister turned 40 last week and this is the card I made for her.
As she is a keen quilter I tried to do a faux quilt card. I was quite pleased with the result and it really wasn't that difficult.

The only stamps used are the numbers from the retired set Best Friends Numbers.
Card stock: Rose Red, Kiwi Kiss, Chocolate Chip and Raspberry Tart DSP
Accessories: Build A Brad, Kiwi Kiss satin ribbon.

Below are examples of the post it note holders we made at the monthly workshop last Monday.

Stamp Set: Trendy Trees
Card stock: Old Olive, Tangerine Tango and Haiku DSP
Ink: Tangerine Tango and Chocolate Chip.
Accessories: 1 3/8 circle punch and striped so saffron ribbon.

Finally I am able to show you the card I made for my friend Lisa's new baby boy, as I delivered the present over the weekend. Unfortunately they weren't home so I am yet to see baby Jack.
Stamp Sets: Wild About You and Short and Sweet
Cardstock: Certainly Celery, Not Quite Navy and Baja Breeze Prints DSP
Ink: Baja Breeze, Certainly Celery and Not Quite Navy.

I have my hostess appreciation day coming up this weekend so I am busy this week preparing and will post some of the projects next week.

Buy 3 get 1 free!

2009-05-05T17:09:00.004+10:00

Everyone loves the word free!! This month there are 2 fantastic promotions from Stampin' Up!

We are celebrating scrapbooking month, but the first promotion is not limited to scrapbookers, if you have ever used patterned paper for any project then you will love this special. The Designer Series Papers in the current catalogue are just beautiful and this month when you buy 3 you get 1 free.

Here are the details

Buy three packs of select Designer Series paper ($16.95 each), and get one FREE! See selections below:
Item Page Description
112042 132 Urban Garden Designer Series paper
112470 132 Haiku Designer Series paper
113976 132 Pink Flamingo Designer Series paper
112468 132 Sweet Always Designer Series paper
113992 133 Tea Party Designer Series paper
113975 133 Raspberry Tart Designer Series paper
113966 134 Good Morning Sunshine Designer Series paper
112469 134 Holiday Treasures Designer Series paper
112041 134 Bella Rose Designer Series paper
113974 134 Bella Bleu Designer Series paper
113978 135 Urban Oasis Designer Series paper
112461 135 Washington Apple Designer Series paper
112039 135 Windsor Knot Designer Series paper
113980 135 Candy Lane Designer Series paper

The second promotion is a special Scrapbooking Starter Kit for only $150. Yes that's right you can join Stampin' Up! this month only for the low price of $150. This is ideal for any scrapbooker considering joining the Stampin' Up! team. The Scrapbooking Starter Kit includes the following items
Item Code Description Retail Value
112231 Schoolbook Serif Alphabet stamp set* $77.95
113059 Simply Scrappin' Petal Party $36.95
108697 Earth Elements Assorted textured card stock (12" x 12") $21.95
105216 Pumpkin Pie Classic Stampin' Pad $11.95
103179 Craft & Rubber Scissors $37.95
It also includes the business kit normally reveived with the standard starter kit.

So if you have ever thought about joining Stampin' Up! as a career or as a hobby, this month is a fantastic time to do so.

Now I thought I would also share a couple of cards I made at a workshop in April.

Stamp Sets: Good Friend, Say it with Scallops
Cardstock: Pacific Point, Baja Breeze, Kiwi Kiss and Good Morning Sunshine DSP
Ink: Pacific Point, Chocolate Chip, Summer Sun, Kiwi Kiss

Stamp Set: Fresh Cuts
Cardstock: Fresh Cut Notes, Not Quite Navy
Ink: Kiwi Kiss, Baja Breeze, Not Quite Navy marker
Technique: Thumping

April 2009

2009-04-26T20:39:00.005+10:00

On Saturday 18th April 2009 my grandmother (Ma) peacefully passed on to be reunited with Pa.
She truly was a most wonderful lady and my sister (who is much better with words than me) has a lovely tribute to her here.

This weekend I have been catching up on some projects. The first one is invitations to my hostess appreciation day. So if you hosted a workshop with me over the last 12 months you will be receiving one of these very soon.
The stamp set used is Trendy Trees and the colours are Kiwi Kiss, Tangerine Tango and Chocolate Chip.

On Wednesday 22nd April 2009 a family friend gave birth to a beautiful (I have seen photos) baby girl, so I had to make a card to welcome Violet.
The stamp set used is All In The Family. Colours are Riding Hood Red, Pink Pirouette and Close To Cocoa.
There are more projects on the go including a baby boy card for my friend Lisa to welcome her 4th baby boy (born Wednesday 15th April), but as I know she reads my blog you will have to wait until I have delivered it. (Can't spoil the surprise!!).

Birthdays continue

2009-04-07T09:45:00.004+10:00

The kids and I went to Gisbourne yesterday to catch up with my friend and her 2 girls. Paige was able to stretch her birthday just a little bit more. My friend's daughter was also celebrating her 5th birthday (which was on Sunday) so another little cake and more singing of Happy Birthday.
This is the card I made for our friend turning 5.
My friend also had a birthday last month and although it is a little late below is the card I gave her. I actually used this card for a make and take on the weekend and then I added the rub ons later.

We seem to have a lot of birthdays during April and May so I should be making lots more cards over the next few weeks and will hopefully get time to share them on here.

New Products as promised

2009-04-05T20:19:00.002+10:00

As promised here are the individual photos of cards using new stamp sets, products and colours.

This one is using a level 3 hostess set called Hand Drawn Bundle. The set includes a stamp set with 4 stamps, 9 sheets of double sided 12 x 12 designer series paper (3 x 3 designs) and a set of rub ons. The card stock used is Kiwi Kiss, Baja Breeze and Riding Hood Red.

This image and saying is from a level 2 hostess set called Echoes of Kindness. The colours are Pink Pirouette, Baja Breeze, Kiwi Kiss and Chocolate Chip.

This one is a set called Bloom Away. It has been stamped with Chocolate Chip and water coloured with Riding Hood Red and Kiwi Kiss. Cardstock is Pink Pirouette, Kiwi Kiss and Riding Hood Red. Ribbon is Chocolate Chip 5/8" grosgrain. Brads are Circle Ice Rhinestone Brads.

I have used the tag punches to make little purses with rhinestone brads and whisper white ribbon. The only stamp on this is the flowery image from the Good Friend set. Designer Series Paper is Good Morning Sunshine and the cardstock is Kiwi Kiss, Baja Breeze and Pacific Point

Finally this one is a Fresh Cut Note. They are pre cut and die cut 4"x4" cards which also come with envelopes. The stamp set used is called Fresh Cuts. I have stamped the background stamp on Whisper White with Pacific Point ink and used the 5 petal punch to punch a flower in Tangerine Tango and placed them behind the cut out flower. The front of the card is stamped with Baja Breeze and Tangerine Tango.

I was asked at a workshop today what my new favourite in colour was and really I couldn't narrow it down to just one, but on reflection I am thinking Baja Breeze. But I do really like Pink Pirouette, Riding Hood Red and Kiwi Kiss also. And I am starting to use Pacific Point and really quite liking that. Which only leaves Tangerine Tango and that is growing on me also. So I guess I haven't got a real favourite yet. It is only early days.

Paige's 7th Birhtday

2009-04-05T19:33:00.007+10:00

Well this past week has been quite busy. My beautiful little girl turned 7 on Thursday and just like me at her age she was able to make her birthday last a minimum 3 days.
First there was the actual birthday on Thursday which really was a normal day in our house except for the gift giving before school (which was the nintendo ds she has been wanting for the last 2years) and the special family tea being Paige's choice (fajitas). Then Friday after school was the rainbow birthday party with school friends. That was then followed by a sleep over with my sisters 3 girls. Saturday was the visit from Grandma and Grandpa, so again another birthday cake and singing Happy Birthday to Paige for the 3rd or 4th time. Judging by the constant smile on her face I believe she enjoyed every minute of it all.

These are the party bags I made for all the children who came to the party on Friday.
The initals are stamped with Lovely Letters stamp set.

This is Paige dressed for her Rainbow Party

Then again on Saturday yet another birthday cake.

And this is Paige and Hamish with their cousins.

It's Here!!!

2009-04-01T19:45:00.002+11:00

It's here, the new 2009 - 2010 Ideas Book and Catalogue was launched today. You are now able to view it on line (just click the picture of the cover on the right side of this page).

I have been busy trying to tidy the house, make party favours and get organised for Paige's 7th Birthday Party this week, so I haven't had time to take any photos. But I promise to post photos and ideas using new products very soon.

If you would like to purchase a new catalogue for $15 including postage or are interested in a workshop please contact me

Sneak Peak

2009-03-27T17:51:00.003+11:00

Here is a sneak peak as promised. These cards have been made using new in-colours, designer series papers and stamp sets from the new catalogue.

I will post individual photos with details of the cards later as I only had time to snap one quick photo today.

New Catalogue

2009-03-25T12:54:00.002+11:00

Wow!!!!!! I received my box of new 2009/2010 Catalogues late last week and all I can say is wow!!
There are heaps of new fantastic stamp sets and as for the designer series papers and accessories again wow. My wish list is so long and I am having trouble narrowing it down to the must have favourites.

I will post some sneak peaks over the coming days.

If you would like to pre order a copy of the catalogue or book a workshop and receive one free contact me

7th Birthdays

2009-03-14T18:40:00.004+11:00

Paige will be turning 7 in a few weeks and she is counting the days. Therefore I have been making invitations for her party. I decided to use the criss cross technique. Paige was really happy with the result and so were her friends when she gave them out at school on Friday.

Stamp sets used were All in the Family and Sincere Salutations. Colours are Pink Passion, Old Olive, Pretty In Pink and Tempting Turquoise.

Below is a birthday card for one of Paige's friends (also turning 7).
It is a sneak peak of some new things coming in the 2009/2010 Catalogue due on the 1st April.

The stamp set is new and some of the colours are from the new in colour range.

Remember there are lots of stamps and accessories retiring and they are selling out fast so if there is something on your wish list now is the time to get them before they are gone.

Boxes so far

2009-03-08T13:54:00.003+11:00

Thanks to all those who have attended the Stationary Box workshops so far.

We are making great progress and I know some lovely ladies have also been making more at home.

Here are some photos from the workshops and some of the wonderful boxes and cards created.

Sold out already

2009-03-02T16:42:00.004+11:00

There are some products that have sold out already. Below is the list Updated 4:30pm Wednesday 4th March 2009. If you have any questions about certain products please contact me

Item Number	Product Description	Availability
10756	Flip Flops	Unavailable
109020	Wild Wasabi Classic Ink Refill	Unavailable
109015	Soft Sky Classic Stamin' Ink Refill	Unavailable
109016	River Rock Classic Stampin' Ink Refill	Unavailable
109017	Purely Pomegranite Classic Stampin' Ink Refill	Unavailable
100381	Earth Elements Eyelets	Unavailable
100378	Soft Subtle Eyelets	Unavailable
109019	Groovy Guava Classic Stampin' Ink Refill	Unavailable
108748	Best Friend Numbers	Unavailable
107212	Mateys Map	Unavailable
105320	Basic Eyelets	Unavailable
103195	Gifts Galore	Unavailable
107561	Garden Annuals	Unavailable
109610	Confetti Simply Scrappin'	Unavailable
104279	Leaf Prints	Unavailable
110255	Bundle of Joy	Unavailable
112402	Short Order Numbers	Unavailable
109018	Blue Bayou Classic Stampin' Ink Refill	Unavailable
111852	River Rock A4 card stock	Unavailable
108720	Ahoy, Matey	Unavailable
105316	Rich Regal Eyelets	Low Quantity
101259	Black Hemp Twine	Low Quantity
108740	Bareback	Low Quantity
106662	Dasey Field	Low Quantity
108638	In Color 12"x 12" card stock	Low Quantity
109186	Theater Ribbn Originals	Low Quantity
105445	Soft Subtle buttons	Low Quantity
111850	Wild Wasabi A4 card stock	Low Quantity
106610	Basics Outline	Low Quantity
103981	Earth Elements	Low Quantity
103981	*Earth Elements & Neutrals buttons	Low Quantity
100900	Gift sacks	Low Quantity
108763	By Land	Low Quantity
104065	Fishy	Low Quantity
112253	*Dad's Day	Low Quantity
108849	It's Your Birthday	Low Quantity
105531	Antique Brass Hodgepodge Hardware	Low Quantity
112391	Everything Baby	Low Quantity
112310	Fabulous Flowers	Low Quantity
107464	Rough Texture	Low Quantity
107465	Speckled	Low Quantity
107467	Birthday	Low Quantity
108923	Stipple Rose	Low Quantity
112272	Classic Backgrounds	Low Quantity
108929	Symbols of Solicitude	Low Quantity
112316	Forever in My Heart	Low Quantity
105446	Rich Regal Buttons	Low Quantity
108746	Best Friends Alphabet Lower	Low Quantity
108747	Best Friends Alphabet Upper	Low Quantity

A Fond Farewell........

2009-03-01T14:26:00.002+11:00

It is that time of year again where Stampin' Up! release a list of stamp sets and accessories that will retire at the end of March.
This year the list is huge!! And as a bonus Stampin' Up! are giving a 25% discount off selected retiring stamp sets and accessories.
Click these links to view the lists Alphabetical List and Catalogue page number list
Those items marked with a single asterisk are discounted.

Everything on the list is only available while stocks last therefore if there is something you really want it is a good idea to order early.

I will do my best to update here regularly as things sell out.

Stationary Boxes
I would like to say a huge thank you to those who have attended and booked for the workshops so far.

There are still places left for the 3rd workshop so please contact me ASAP if you are interested in attending. See more details here

Date: Sunday 15th March
Time 2:00pm - 4:00pm

I promise to post some photos of the workshops and boxes made soon.

Stationary Boxes

2009-02-20T13:33:00.004+11:00

After much consideration and a little planning I have decided to make these stationary boxes to give to those affected by the fires. They will consist of handmade cards, notepaper, pens, gift tags, stamps etc.

This may not be something they are looking for right now, with the clean up and bear essentials being the immediate priority. But I felt in the coming months people may wish to send thank you notes, or just write down some thoughts and therefore these stationary boxes may come in handy.

Over the next few weeks I will be holding workshops to make some stationary boxes. At the workshops you will be given instructions for the box and then we will make up as many as we can. Below is an example one I have made.

Workshop dates in Lara Victoria

Wednesday 25th February 2009
7:30 - 9:30pm

Tuesday 3rd March 2009
7:30 - 9:30pm

Sunday 15th March 2009
2:00 - 4:00pm

Please e-mail me for more details

If you are unable to come to any workshops but would like to contribute that would also be wonderful.
Other ways to help could include making some cards, boxes or other stationary at home and sending them to me. If you have some supplies we could use to make up sets and you would like to donate those please contact me.

My sister is also having a quilting bee in Ashburton Victoria on Saturday 21st March 2009 if you would like more details please visit here.

Another fantastic site to visit if you wish to donate handmade items is handmade help.

Stampin' Up! Bushfire Appeal

2009-02-12T09:15:00.002+11:00

Stampin' Up! have just announced they will be donating 50% of the retail price of all sales of 10 stamp sets to the Red Cross Bushfire Appeal. This will be from today (Feb 12th) until 31st March.

Stamp Set	Item Number	Page Number in Catalogue	Retail Price
Priceless	112312	105	48.95 AUD/57.95 NZD
Seeing Spots	108909	89	29.95 AUD /35.95 NZD
Baroque Motifs	112380	98	39.95 AUD /46.95 NZD
Live Your Dream	114261	3 (Summer Mini Catalogue)	55.95 AUD /66/95 NZD
Looks Like Spring*	108864	76	58.95 AUD /68.95 NZD
The Snowflake Spot*	108934	27	39.95 AUD /46.95 NZD
Bodacious Boquet*	108756	80	58.95 AUD /68.95 NZD
Polka Dots & Paisley*	110247	46	35.95 AUD /42.95 NZD
G'day Mate*	111973	115	35.95 AUD /42.95 NZD
Be Happy*	108744	51	39.95 AUD /46.95 NZD

*These sets will appear on the upcoming list of retiring products, so they will only be available for the Bushfire Appeal--while supplies last.

If you have ever wanted any of these sets then now is a great time to purchase them as it will also be supporting the bushfire appeal.

In addition to this I personally will be donating my 20% commission for all of February to the bushfire appeal.

Victorian Bushfire Appeal

2009-02-09T09:46:00.004+11:00

As the news of the devastation caused by these fires continues to come in, my thoughts and prayers go out to all those who have lost loved ones, homes and so much more.

It seems there is going to be so much needed to help these people and communities to rebuilt so I have listed some details if you wish to make a donation.

To donate to the Red Cross State Government Victorian Bushfire Appeal Fund:

* Visit www.redcross.org.au
* Phone 1800 811 700
* Any NAB, ANZ, Westpac or Commonwealth Bank branch
* Any Bunnings store
* By direct deposit to the Victorian Bushfire Relief Fund - BSB 082-001, Account number 860-046-797

Myer Bushfire Appeal
* All proceeds to the Salvation Army. Donate at any Victorian Myer store

School starts

2009-02-02T14:34:00.003+11:00

This post has very little to do with stamping. Today was the first day back at school. It was Hamish's first day of school. Big sister Paige is now in grade 2 and was very proud to show Hamish the ropes on his first day.
For me it means more time to stamp!!!!! I did have a tiny moment of emotion when I saw my baby dressed in his school uniform all grown up, but I got over it very quickly when I thought about all the things I can now try to achieve in my own time.

So hopefully over the coming weeks and months there will be more creative things to share with you.

While the kids are away.............

2009-01-16T14:17:00.003+11:00

The children have been at their Granparent's in Bendigo this week for a holiday, so I have been playing!!! Well I have been working also, but I found time to play with my brayer. It was lots of fun.
I did a workshop last night for my good friend Anita, and as she is an expert stamper I decided to show off some brayer techniques. Judging by the oohs and ahhs I think they enjoyed it and learnt something new.

This first picture is the make and take we did. It is an emboss resist technique which my up upline demonstrated at the Melbourne regionals.
I have used the Eastern Blooms set from the Summer Mini.

These ones are when I was playing with the brayer at home so I didn't look too much like a novice at the workshop. Again I have used the Eastern Blooms set.

I am going to Bendigo tomorrow to collect the children and while I am there I am doing a workshop for my Aunty and her friends. They have never seen Stampin' Up! before therefore I have come up with a fairly simple design for the make and take.
This is using the Priceless set and the Fall Flowers DSP. I hope they like it!!

This one I am going to demonstrate water colouring. I have used the Embrace Life set and the Ginger Blosssoms DSP both from the Summer Mini.
I have finalised details of my February Class.

Date: Tuesday 10th February 2009
Time: 7:30pm
Project: 3 Glitter Techniques
Cost: $6

If you are interested in coming along please contact me ASAP as places are limited.

2009 Calendar

2009-01-06T17:38:00.019+11:00

As promised here is my 2009 Calendar. The January page shows what each calendar page looks like.
I have had trouble up loading all the photos so hopefully you can get a reasonable idea what I have done.
The pages are 12"x12" so therefore at the end of the year I can put them straight into my scrapbooking album. I have used lots of different stamp sets, colours and accessories so I am not going to list them all. If you would like to know specific info on any layout just ask and I will give you the details. Everything used is Stampin' Up!

During the year I will be holding Calendar workshops and am planning a calendar weekend retreat at Sewjourn (more details to follow when I finalise a date), so if you are interested in making your own 2010 calendar let me know so I can keep you informed on dates etc.

Happy New Year

2009-01-02T09:43:00.008+11:00

Happy New Year to everyone. I hope you all had a wonderful festive season.
The start of a new year is an exciting time and Stampin' Up! like to celebrate with Sale-A-Bration.
I am doing a mail out of the summer mini catalogue and the Sale-A-Bration catalogue today so if you are on my mailing list they should arrive in your letter box soon. In the mean time you can click on the images below to check out these catalogues on line.

So what is a Sale-A-Bration? Well during the months of January and February customers, hostesses and new recruits are rewarded with free stamp sets.

As a customer when you purchase $100 worth of Stampin'Up! products you can choose one of the Sale-A-Bration stamp sets free. There is no limit, therefore for every $100 you spend you can choose a free Sale-A-Bration set.

As a hostess you may also qualify for free Sale-A-Bration stamp sets when you hold a workshop with total sales over $600. With a $600+ worshop you may choose one Sale-A-Bration set in addition to other hostess benefits. When your workshop total sales reach $1200 you may choose a second Sale-A-Bration set and then a third set with sales over $1800.

If you join Stampin'Up! as a new recruit during the Sale-A-Bration promotion you can select any stamp set (to the value of $79.95) from the 2008-2009 Ideas Book and Catalogue free.

This is a fantastic promotion so don't miss out on the opportunity to get free stamp sets. If you wish to host a workshop during the Sale-A-Bration contact me to arrange a date.

I have been busy over the past week making my 2009 calender and am pleased to say I managed to complete it before the year started. I will take some photos of it and post my creation here really soon. It was so much fun making the calender, it has inspired me to do some calender making workshops this year. I will post the dates and details once I am organised.

Also this year I am going to start a stamp club. This will be a club with 10 people where you commit to spending $30 a month for 10 months and then take it in turns for hostess benefits. When it is your month for hostess benefits you may choose to also host a workshop and increase your hostess rewards, but you are guaranteed at least level 1.

The new year has obviously given me lots of inspiration as I am also planning on monthly workshops at my place the first one will be in February so keep an eye out for date and details.

Please feel free to contact me if you wish to go on my mailing list or are interested in any of the above.

Well I am going to be quite busy and am really looking forward to sharing all these exciting things with you.

Last minute Christmas cards

2008-12-24T18:42:00.003+11:00

T'was the night before Christmas...................and I have finally finished my Christmas cards!!!
These two I actually finished yesterday, but only delivered them today.
They were made using the TLC (Technique Lover's Challenge) from splitcoast last week. Using the 2 different size tag punches to make these lovely stars or flowers.

Again I have used the simply scrappin kit Winter Bright. Stamps used on the first one are from lovely letters. I think the silver hodgepodge finishes it off nicely.

The stamp used on the second one is from Many Merry Messages. The glitter in the centre of the flower is the chunky sprinkles from the summer mini. It is the first chance I have had to try it and I am quite happy.

Well the children are out of the bath and very excited wanting to get ready for Santas visit tonight.

I wish you all a very Merry Christmas with your family and friends. Looking forward to a wonderful 2009.

Teachers gift tags

2008-12-17T11:41:00.004+11:00

I found this ornament on Splitcoast and decided to try one. It was so easy I made more and am going to use them as gift tags for the kinder teachers presents.

These ones have been made using the simply scrappin kit Winter Brights.

It is basically squares layered with the base square 3.75" x 3.75",
then 3.5"x3.5", 3.25"x3.25", 3"x3", 2.75"x2.75",2.5"x2.5" and the final square is 2"x2". I have put a jumbo eyelet in the top and threaded ribbon through.

Hopefully the kinder teachers will like them.

Christamas market 2

2008-12-04T20:33:00.003+11:00

This is my market stall. The Lara CFA Christmas market was held last Saturday. The weather was kind, it didn't rain, it wasn't too hot and the wind only came in short gusts.
I was really pleased with the interest I had for Stampin' Up!
It was a great experience being on the other side of a market stall and although there wasn't the crowd of other years it was encouraging to see so many people in Lara interested in stamping, card making and scrapbooking.
It is certainly something I will do again next year. And also thanks to those friends who came along just to say hi, it was nice to see so many familiar faces.

It is difficult to believe it is December, but it is great to see people (especially children) getting into the Christmas spirit. If you are on my mailing list you should have received your December newsletter with the great December specials. If you have not received it yet let me know or if you are not on my mailing list and would like to be please contact me

Christmas market

2008-11-27T21:03:00.004+11:00

Well I have one more day to finish getting organised for the Christams market on Saturday morning. My husband kindly made a display board for my cards and I have filled it with examples of Christmas cards.

Anyone who knows me well will appreciate how far outside my comfort zone I was with this group of cards below. I believe red and green are the only traditional Christmas colours and it doesn't snow in Australia at Christmas so I usually stay away from snow flakes. But.......this group of cards has been made using the winter bright simply scrappin kit (which is on special next month - more on that soon!!) And wow I think they look great (even if they have some non traditional colours in them)!!!
I will try to take some photos of my stall at the market (but then I may also be run off my feet with customers!!!) and let you all know next week how I survive my first market.

Oh some other great news the Stampin Write individual marker special has been extended until 14th December. I will update all the new specials and the release of the summer mini early next week.

Jack's Birthday Card and more

2008-11-19T09:31:00.006+11:00

We had a 3 year old birthday party on the weekend and this is the card I made for Jack.

Stamp Set: Wild About You, Best Friends Alphabet Lower
Cardstock: Pumpkin Pie, Real Red, Whisper White and Summer Picnic DSP.
Ink: Real Red
Markers: Pumpkin Pie, Creamy Caramel, Chocolate Chip.
Accessories: Bashful Blue striped ribbon

I love the Summer Picnic DSP and am really going to miss it when the Spring Mini finishes at the end of the month.

There are quite a few stamp sets from the spring mini I have also loved using and will miss, so I am going to try and use them as much as I can over the next couple of weeks. This next card I used the colour challenge on splitcoaststampers (last week) as my inspiration.

Stamp sets: One of a Kind (Spring Mini) Weathered background (It is a bit hard to see in the photo, but it is on the Not Quite Navy cardstock)
Cardstock: Going Gray, Not Quite Navy, Certainly Celery and Whisper White.
Ink and Markers: Going Gray, Not Quite Navy and Certainly Celery.
Accessories: Boho Blossoms punch (Spring Mini), Styled Silver Hodgepodge Hardware (Spring Mini), Eastern Elegance Rub-Ons (Spring Mini) and Basic Gray Taffeta ribbon

Finally I have a sneak peek for you of something from the upcoming Summer Mini.
This is a small box made from 2 DSP pieces 11cm x 13.5cm scored at 2cm on each edge and folded into a box and lid.

Stamp set: Live Your Dream (Summer Mini)
Cardstock:Afternoon Tea DSP (Summer Mini), Groovy Guava and Whisper White
Ink: Groovy Guava, Chocolate Chip and Sky Blue.

My next major project is a local Christmas Market at the end of the month so I will be working on my display items and will upload them to show you as I can.

2008-11-12T14:49:00.000+11:00

Welcome to my first real post. My husband put the first post on just to show me how this blog thing works.
I like to think I am fairly computer literate, but I must admit I am finding this blog thing a bit daunting.
On Saturday 8th November I went to Stampin' Up! regional seminar in Melbourne and sat at a table with 4 lovely ladies (hi Cameron, Michelle, Jenny and Margare t). It was interesting to discover I was the only one on the table without a blog. My sister also has a blog linked to her craft retreat Sewjourn. I have certainly looked at my fair share of blogs and enjoy reading what others are doing and seeing wonderful ideas, but never thought I should have one. But alas here I am.
I thought I would show you a couple of simple Christmas cards I made recently and if this works okay I will upload more of my creations as they happen.

Stamp sets: Snow Burst from Spring Mini
Warm Words

Card stock: Always Artichoke, Purely Pomegranate and Very Vanilla Holiday and Holiday Harmony DSP

Ink: Always Artichoke, Purely Pomegranate and Wild Wasabi.

Accessories: Purely Pomegranate double stitched ribbon.

Stamp set: Season of Joy (spring mini)

Cardstock: Purely Pomegranate, Always Artichoke and Whisper White

Ink: Always Artichoke, Purely Pomegranate.

Acessories: Purely Pomegranate Satin Ribbon (Spring Mini), brads from Pretties Kit.

I will now try to take better photos if I am going to be posting them on my blog.
I am planning some fun things over the next 12 months so please continue to vist my blog to keep up to date with specials and events coming soon.

2008-11-10T20:23:00.001+11:00

Welcome to DonnaStamp's blog, where you can follow her exciting adventures as she stamps her way through, cards & envelopes, calendars, and other creative medium.