KreatesKards

Tips and Tricks for the New Paper Doily Sizzlits Die

2012-01-27T12:47:00.000-07:00

Large Sizzlits Die - Paper Doily, item #125592

Stampin' Up! just posted this information, so I wanted to pass it on to all of you also:

Tips and Tricks for the New Paper Doily Sizzlits Die

January 27, 2012

With the Paper Doily Sizzlits Die (item 125592) you can now create the intricate designs you've grown to love with our Sizzlits Dies, in a new, larger size. Some of you have asked questions about the die and we're here to help answer those questions.

A few tips and tricks:

Because of variations in materials, you will most likely need to use a shim (such as piece of card stock) when you send it through the Big Shot.
The detailed intricacy comes with a little added work. The negative pieces will not come out automatically when you cut the die.
- It may take a little time to remove all the cut pieces from the die-cut paper. Remove the pieces by poking or punching them out. Carefully, push the pieces through the cut design and remove them from the back. Make sure you work from the front side of the doily (the side that was face-down when it was cut) and push the pieces through; if you try to pull them out from the front or if you push them through from the back side, the doily might tear. To make it easier, gently roll the die-cut paper to pop out some of the larger pieces.
- Push the pieces out using the Paper-Piercing Tool or the small end of the Simply Scored Stylus.
- The front side will look completely cut through, however, the back side may not. This is normal with this die, and if you follow the directions of removing the small pieces you will find that the die has cut through the paper.
Because of the intricate design of this die, small pieces might stick in the foam on the actual die. Clear all small pieces from the die before using it again. This will ensure you get a clean cut every time. Remove the remaining pieces by using your Paper-Piercing Tool, being careful not to tear the foam on the die.

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Melted Crayon Tutorial Using a Stampin' Up! Heat Gun

2012-01-27T06:21:00.000-07:00

This is a photo intensive tutorial. If you are receiving it by e-mail, you may need to view it at my blog especially if you do not have high speed internet.

Oh my gosh, melted crayon art work is the gift to give right now. You will see many examples of it throughout the internet. However, there are not too many tutorials and all that I have found use a hairdryer. Well, I have a wonderful Stampin' Up! Heat Gun which I couldn't wait to try. It worked extremely well both with crayons and with Stampin' Up! Watercolor Crayons. I will post the video tutorial for the Watercolor Crayons on Monday here on my blog. Today is a photo tutorial I created using regular crayons and the heat gun.

Important Notes:
1. Remember that the crayon is wrapped in paper. Paper can catch fire, so be extremely careful.
2. The wax in the crayons as it melts will splatter, so be sure to protect your work area.
3. Wax is extremely HOT, do not touch the art piece until it has completely cooled.
4. Open your doors and windows if you do this. Crayons have a strong odor when melting.
5. Do not hang on a wall that has direct sunlight. It "may" cause your art work to melt even more.
6. This project is not recommended for children.

Disclaimer: If you do this technique, you are doing so at your own risk. I'm not reasonable for any accidents etc that might happen while doing this technique.

First sort you the colors (right side of photo). My canvas was 11" x 14". I used a box of 64 crayons and removed black, browns, grays and white before sorting.

Using a hot glue gun, I put glue on the backs of the crayon (held with a pari of tweezers) and then immediately put it on the board with the crayon name up (so you can see it). All crayons were put on the same way.

Once all the crayons were in place and glue dry, I braced the canvas at an angle. Be sure it will not slip. Remember that the wax will splatter. I covered part of my island with butcher paper then foil on top. Wasn't sure if hot wax would soak thru the butcher paper, so decided foil on top was a good idea.

Stampin' Up! sells a great heat gun. It is easy to use, heats up immediately, and is pretty lightweight.

I started on the left and moved the heat gun back and forth, trying not to keep it in one position any length of time. Again, remember the paper wrappers on the crayons are flammable ... be careful.

With crayons, they start to melt quickly and will drip down the canvas. Because there is forced air from the heat gun, some of the drips will follow the path of the air.

Having fun watching it melt as I go along.

There will be some texture and some blobs of color. You can run the heat gun over them to remelt if you want the color further down on the canvas.

Melting process done.

Added in Stampin' Up! 1/2" Stitched-Poly Ribbon across the front of the crayons AND

around the sides (see photo below)

Here's my finished project using crayons.

I used the same technique for Stampin' Up! Watercolor Crayons. I used the colors I had on hand that were discontinued/retired a couple of years ago.

The watercolor crayons melt differently than regular crayons. They blended more together too which was neat. We also noticed that they had a great deal of 3D effect with the melted wax.

I added in a stamped image, a framelits frame, ribbon, and pearls.

NOTE: Do not put pearls on the wax. They do not stick long term. The ones I placed on the front of the crayon wrappers are fine tho. I used watercolor pencils to color in the stamped image.

A close-up the pearls, ribbon, watercolor crayons, and melting.

Stampin' Up! Products:

1/2" Stitched-Poly Ribbon, item #119267 - Blushing Bride OR item #119266 - Concord Crush

Jewels, Large Pearl Basic Jewels, item #125577

Heat Tool/Gun, item #100005

Framelits Die, Labels Collection, item #125598

Apothecary Art Stamp Set, item #125525 - Wood OR item #125527 - Clear Mount

Loving Thoughts Stamp Set, item #125843 - Wood OR item #125845 - Clear Mount

Watercolor Pencils, item #101879

Come back on Monday to view my two part video tutorial on this same subject.

Disclaimer: If you do this technique, you are doing so at your own risk. I'm not reasonable for any accidents etc that might happen while doing this technique.
You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Scalloped Circle Felt Flower Pin - Mini Tutorial

2012-01-26T08:00:00.036-07:00

My finished flower.

If I was making this again, I would have the pin facing the opposite direction. This way was a bit more awkward for me to pin myself.

Added the flower pin to my shirt. Pleased with the results.

The other day I showed you a step by step tutorial on how to make a Scalloped Circle Felt Wreath using the Big Shot Die Cutting Machine and the Scallop Circle #2 Die.   I had some of the felt scalloped circles left over so decided to make a flower pin.

Here's what I did:
Cut out two of the large Scallop Circles.
Cut out 12 to 15 of the small Scallop Circles.
Take one of the large Scallop Circles and use it as your base.
a. Fold the small Scallop Circles one at a time (just like on the wreath) and then hand sew to the base.
b. Continue doing this until you have full flower.   I did sew each petal a couple of times to the base to make them more secure.
c. Using a hot glue gun, put glue on the back side of the flower then immediately put the other large Scallop Circle on top lining the scallops up.
d. Open a safety pin, and glue it to the back. Allow to dry.

Pin can be used on a blouse, a purse, a headband or even as a gift topper. 1/4 of a yard of felt should be more than enough to make a number of finished flowers.   I used scraps of felt that I had so didn't measure out what I used.   If you use cotton fabric, you will need at least double to triple the amount of flowers. The felt is much denser than cotton.

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Video Tutorial: How to use Stampin' Up! Framelits

2012-01-25T08:00:00.000-07:00

I just finished a video on how to use our new Stampin' Up! Framelits for the Big Shot Die Cutting Machine. They are so easy to use and will expand what you can do with your Big Shot. They have been a major hit with my customers and team members.

If you are reading my blog via e-mail, you will need to come to the blog to view the new video. Here's the video for those that are reading on-line:

Framelits Dies for the Big Shot:
Hearts Collection, item #125599
Labels Collection, item #125598
Big Shot Die Cutting Machine, item #113439

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Important Update Note About Sale-A-Bration Hostess Benefits

2012-01-24T18:02:00.000-07:00

See notes below in RED ... I didn't realize until today that to qualify for the tote and/or bundle that I had to place the order for you instead of you placing your order yourself on-line.

For every $50 of Stampin' Up! product purchased before tax and shipping you will receive one free item from the Sale-A-Bration Brochure!!!! There is NO limit on the amount of product you can earn at no cost to you.

Remember too that during Sale-A-Bration (January 24th through March 31, 2012) if you have a minimum $150 order before tax and shipping, you qualify for hostess benefits too. With a $150 minimum order, you will earn $25 in Hostess Dollars, a FREE tote (exclusive during Sale-A-Bration), and three Sale-a-Bration items of your choice. If you have a minimum of $400 order before tax and shipping, you will earn $65 in Hostess Dollars, 1 item of your choice at 1/2 price, the FREE Tote AND Hostess Bundle (see Page 3 of the Sale-A-Bration brochure for details) PLUS 8 items from the Sale-a-Bration brochure of your choice.
*Free shopping tote with workshop, customer and demonstrator orders only; offer does not include online orders. Free hostess bundle with workshop, customer, or demonstrator orders; offer does not include online orders. Offers are not incremental (i.e., a hostess does not receive two totes for a $300 workshop or two bundles for an $800 workshop). Contact me directly to put the order in for you to qualify for the free tote and bundle.

You can view the Sale-A-Bration Brochure by clicking HERE.
Place an Order by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now.

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

My Digital Studio Downloads - January 24, 2012

2012-01-24T13:09:00.000-07:00

The latest My Digital Studio Downloads are now available HERE.

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Apothecary Art Card Using Framelits - Sale-A-Bration starts TODAY!!!

2012-01-24T08:00:00.030-07:00

Sale-A-Bration starts TODAY!!!! For every $50 of Stampin' Up! product purchased before tax and shipping you will receive one free item from the Sale-A-Bration Brochure!!!! There is NO limit on the amount of product you can earn at no cost to you.

Remember too that during Sale-A-Bration (January 24th through March 31, 2012) if you have a minimum $150 order before tax and shipping, you qualify for hostess benefits too. With a $150 minimum order, you will earn $25 in Hostess Dollars, a FREE tote (exclusive during Sale-A-Bration), and three Sale-a-Bration items of your choice. If you have a minimum of $400 order before tax and shipping, you will earn $65 in Hostess Dollars, 1 item of your choice at 1/2 price, the FREE Tote AND Hostess Bundle (see Page 3 of the Sale-A-Bration brochure for details) PLUS 8 items from the Sale-a-Bration brochure of your choice.
*Free shopping tote with workshop, customer and demonstrator orders only; offer does not include online orders. Free hostess bundle with workshop, customer, or demonstrator orders; offer does not include online orders. Offers are not incremental (i.e., a hostess does not receive two totes for a $300 workshop or two bundles for an $800 workshop). Contact me directly to put the order in for you to qualify for the free tote and bundle.

You can view the Sale-A-Bration Brochure by clicking HERE.
Place an Order by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now.

Are you thinking of becoming a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator? Would you like to become part of my team? Stampin' Up! allows business demonstrators (those that are in to make money) and hobby demonstrators (those that join to get our discount on Stampin' Up! products). The starter kit is normally $175, but during Sale-A-Bration it is only $125. The kit value is over a $340 value of product and business supplies. PLUS during Sale-A-Bration, anyone that joins as a demonstrator will receive a free paper pack or digital download every month for the rest of the year!!!! You get your choice each month of which you would like to receive. Let me know if you are interested (e-mail link at top of page) and I will e-mail you additional information with complete details.

If you look very closely you will see a larger label shadowing the floral label. I sponged this on the card base plus sponged the edges of the card. Doesn't show up as distinctly as I had hoped, but it is a very nice contrast and adds to the look of the card.

The last two days I have realized just how much I LOVE the in-color "pool party". It works for cards for a baby, a man or a woman by not being too light or dark.   I've made 5 cards using it, and am very pleased with the results.

Stampin' Up! Products Used:
Apothecary Art Stamp Set, item #125525 - Wood OR #125527 - Clear
Framelits - Label Collection, item #125598
Fleurettes II, item #115604
Rose Red Stampin Write Marker, item #100063 (to accent the Fleurette flower)
Pool Party Classic Ink, item #122938
Pool Party Card Stock, item #122924
3/8" Ruffled Ribbon - Pool Party, item #122975
Watercolor Pencils, item #101879
Everyday Enchantment Ribbon & Brad Pack, item#127279 (Sale-A-Bration item)
     Sale-A-Bration items available 1/24/2012 thru 3/31/2012 only

The Fleurette is white. I used the Stampin' Write Marker to accent the fleurette with Rose Red. The flowers of the stamped image were colored in using Stampin' Up! Watercolor Pencils. The pencils can be used just like a regular color pencil, or you can use a Aqua Painter or Blender Pen to give them the watercolor effect. Remember if you are creating the watercolor effect, you will want to be sure to use a waterproof ink:

Stampin' Up! Waterproof Inks:
StazOn - Jet Black Ink Pad, item #101406
     Use Staz-On Cleaner to clean stamps, item #109196
Basic Black Classic Ink, item #101179
Basic Gray Classic Ink, item #109120
     Use Stampin' Mist Stamp Cleaner for classic inks, item #102394 & refill item #101022.

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Scalloped Circle Valentine Wreath Tutorial

2012-01-22T15:20:00.002-07:00

I was blog surfing yesterday and came across a great heart wreath made by Wendybell . Her wreath was my inspiration for my circle wreath. We both used the Scallop Circles #2 Die (item #113463). The difference is that she used the large scallop circle and I used the small.

Here's my finished wreath. I accented it with Stampin' Up! ribbon and framelits die cut hearts.

Materials Needed for this project:
2 yards polyester felt 72" wide *
10 inch Styrofoam circle
450+ straight pins with heads --- Size 17 that were 1 1/16" (you can use different size, this worked well for me.
1 12 x 12 sheet of your favorite Stampin' Up! Designer Series Paper
Scallop Circle #2 Die (I used the smaller circle)
Framelits Dies - Hearts Collection, item #125599
Big Shot Die Cutting Machine, item #113439
5/8" Organza Ribbon, item #114319
Magnetic Sheets, item #119816

*Note: Felt comes in different varieties such a polyester and also a wool blend. If you are making this for a gift, do NOT purchase wool felt unless you are sure the person is not allergic to it. Wool felt costs almost double the amount of polyester felt and honestly I didn't see a great difference in the two styles. I'm actually allergic to wool, so was glad I had noticed the signs telling of the different types.

Directions:

This is showing you how the scallops will look on the 10" circle as you start to attach them.

A closeup photo.

Let's start by cutting squares. I used 3 x 3" squares. Cut 300 squares for 3/4 of the circle to be covered (open space in the back) or 450 squares to completely cover the styrofoam circle front and back. Because I was using the Big Shot to cut the scallops, I was able to cut 3 to 4 layers at a time instead of just one!!! Really saved on time.

Always wonderful to have someone to help cut.

(Thank you Hal, you are the BEST!)

As I cut the scallops out using my Big Shot Die Cutting Machine, I put them in a plastic container.

Fold the scallop circle in half.

Fold in half again (making it a quarter)

Put a headed straight pin thru all 4 layers in the bottom corner.

Attach to Styrofoam wreath. Press pin in firmly. The closer they are to each other, the fuller the wreath.

Stampin' Up!'s magnetic sheet (scrap of it) was great for holding my pins.

Part way thru the process. I made sure scallops went down to the table as I made this. At this point I hadn't decided if I would fill in the back of the wreath or not.

This shows the back side of the wreath. I did go back and filled in 100% of the wreath on the front and the back.

I think it looks like tiny roses or carnations. It is really dense. So pleased with it.

Before I finished the back, I took a loop of ribbon and attached with straight pins to the back. Then built the scallops around it securing the loop even more. You could also hot glue gun the ribbon, but then would be able to attach more scallops over the ribbon area.

Items need to be multi-purpose. You could use it as a wreath or as a base for a flower vase.

I cut out all 6 framelits, layered them with SNAIL adhesive then attached to a ribbon I had gone over the wreath with.

Just a reminder that you can view a larger photo of those above, just by clicking on the photo.

Hope you enjoyed my tutorial today. You can choose any color felt that you would like, and make this very versatile by switching out the center hearts for other holiday designs. Also you could do this type of project with card stock or other fabric. Be creative, try different ideas.

Stampin' Up! Catalog Changes & Items to be Discontinued

2012-01-22T08:00:00.031-07:00

The Stampin' Up! Leadership Conference just ended on Friday in San Antonio TX. During the conference many new things were announced including a major change to our catalogs. I'm really pleased with the change and feel it will benefit us all.

Overview of the catalog changes:
"In a nutshell, starting June 1, 2012, Stampin' Up! will release one annual catalog, comparable to (but smaller than) the current Idea Book & Catalog, and two seasonal catalogs, comparable to (but larger than) the current mini catalogs."

The current Idea Book and Catalog 2011-2012 will expire at the end of May instead of the end of June as originally planned.

The Occasions, Summer, and Holiday Mini Catalogs will be replaced by two seasonal catalogs called the Holiday Catalog and the Spring Catalog.
- The first Holiday Catalog will run from August 1, 2012 through the beginning of January, 2013
- The first Spring Catalog will run from the beginning of January, 2013 through May 31, 2013.
The seasonal catalogs will be larger in both size (8 1/2" x 11") and page count (about 40 pages) than the current mini catalogs.

Items that will be discontinued as of June 1st, 2012:
Décor Elements and Simply Adorned

There may be other retirements/items discontinued (which is normal at the end of a catalog time frame), and these will be announced later in the year. Decor Elements and Simply Adorned is being announced now as they are complete product lines not individual product that is being discontinued. This way if you love the line, you can still pick up items before they are no longer carried by Stampin' Up!.

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Blog Candy Winner Announced

2012-01-21T00:06:00.000-07:00

Thank you to everyone that left comments on my blog candy post on Thursday. I put everyone's post on a piece of paper, folded it, and then had my husband draw a winner. The winner is:

Joan

The Valentines and envelopes will be mailed to Joan in the next couple of days.

Four Ways to Use the Packed For Everything Stamp Bundle

2012-01-20T08:00:00.065-07:00

Just a reminder that if you click on any of the photos, you will be able to see a larger view. Here is all four of the cards I made using the Packed for Everything Stamp Bundle. Stamps may also be purchased individually. These stamps are available in wood mount only and are in the Occasions Mini Catalog.

Packed for Everything Stamp Bundle, item #127337 - wood only

(this will give you approximately 25% off compared to buying the 4 individually)

Packed for Dad, item #125452 - wood only

In this card, I stamped the image and using our watercolor pencils added color to the hat.

Packed for Birthday, item #125746 - wood only

For this card, I added color to all of the stamped images using our watercolor pencils.

Packed for Baby, item #125672 - wood only

I stamped the image twice. One was added to the card front. Then on the second image I added color to the onesie, bib, and teddy bear. I cut them out by hand using scissors and then applied to the card front using dimensionals.

Packed for Mom, item #125450 - wood only

I stamped two of this stamp. One was attached to the card front and on the other I added color to the purse. The purse was cut out with scissors and attached with dimensionals to overlay the other purse on the card. Then I added color to the flower, teacup, and shoes on the main image.

I created this collection to show you all the different ways you can create and change the look of these stamps. A 5th way would be to stamp the full image, then color each individually and then cut out using them as needed as accent pieces.

Remember if you purchase these stamps as a bundle, you will save approximately 25% !!!

Additional Stampin' Up! Products Used in this Project:

Stampin' Dimensionals, item #104430
Paper Snips (scissors), item #103579 (perfect for precise cutting)
Watercolor pencils, item #101879
3/8" Ruffled Ribbon - Pool Party, item #122975
Early Espresso Classic Ink, item #119670
Pool Party Classic Ink, item #122938
Pool Party Card Stock, item #122933
Whisper White Card Stock, item #100730
Framelits - Label Collection, item #125598
Big Shot Die Cut Machine, item #113439
Stampin' Sponges, item #101610 (see note below)

NOTE: When you order Stampin' Up! Sponges they come in a package of 3. I actually cut each sponge into 6 pie shape pieces. I cut the sponge (circle shape) in half, then take each half and cut it into 3 pie shape pieces. Sponges can easily be cleaned with soap and water, then allow to air dry. You will be able to use them over and over again. They may be some staining on the sponges, but typically the stain will not transfer as long as the sponge had been cleaned and air dried. I try to use a light stain one for lighter inks and the darker stained one for dark inks.

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Nine Valentines ... Blog Candy Give-A-Way

2012-01-19T08:16:00.000-07:00

Here are nine brand new Valentines that I have made the last couple of weeks.   These are "extras" that I have, and I would love for them to go to a good home.

Would you like to have them? If yes (and you live in the US), just leave a comment below such as a favorite Stampin' Up! product, what you like about my blog, etc.   Please do not post any personal information in your comment as this is a public blog.   One comment per person only.

Each card has an envelope, and the cards are standard greeting card sizes (A2 - 4 1/4" x 5 1/2") made with Stampin' Up! products. I will draw a winner on Friday night.   Winner will be posted either on Friday night or Saturday.   Winner may not "sell" these cards, but you are welcome to share them with others as long as they won't be sold.

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

My Digital Studio Downloads - January 17, 2012

2012-01-18T08:00:00.008-07:00

The latest My Digital Studio Downloads are available HERE now.

Just a reminder too that Sale-A-Bration (our biggest promotion of the year in my opinion) runs from January 24 through March 31, 2012. During Sale-A-Bration you can choose one free product from the Sale-A-Bration brochure for every $50 (before tax & shipping) you spend from our regular catalog, Occasions Mini, and the Clearance Rack on-line.

If you would like to become a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator and part of my team, Sale-A-Bration is a great time to join. The Stampin' Up! Starter Kit is normally $175, but during Stamp-A-Bration the kit is $125. There is a special incentive for new demonstrators during Sale-A-Bration: Get a free paper pack or digital download every month for the rest of the year.

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Scalloped Edgelits Valentine Card Tutorial

2012-01-17T08:00:00.000-07:00

This is the 2nd card we created at class on Saturday. So many wonderful new products for the Big Shot in the Stampin' Up! Occasions Mini catalog.

Stampin’ Up! Products Used:

Very Vanilla Card Stock, item #101650 – 1 piece 5 ½” x 8 ½” and 1 piece 2” x 4”

Cherry Cobbler Card Stock, item #119685 – 1 piece 2” x 5 ½”, 1 piece 1 ½” x 5 ½” , and 1 scrap piece

Cherry Cobbler Classic Ink, item #119669

Heart Full Paper Punch, item #119883

Heart Small Paper Punch, item #117193

Candy Conversations Stamp Set, item #125560 – Wood Only

Bordering on Romance Stamp Set, item #125480 –Wood OR #125482 – Clear Mount.

Big Shot DieEdgelits Adorning Accents, item #125595

Pleated Ribbon – Blushing Bride, item #125570 – 1 piece 6 ½” long

Stampin’ Sponges, item #101610

Scotch Tape

SNAIL Adhesive, item #104332 or SNAIL Refill, item #104331

Sticky Strip, item #104294

Dimensionals, item #104430

Directions:

Very Vanilla Card Stock … Score the 8 ½” side at 4 ¼”.

a. Stamp the floral image towards the bottom of card front.

b. Using the Big Shot Edgelits, cut scalloped edge

c. Adhere 1 ½” x 5 ½” piece of Cherry Cobber to inside of card using SNAIL.

d. Stamp inside message using Cherry Cobbler Classic Ink.

e. Attach pleated ribbon to the 2” x 5 ½” piece of Cherry Cobbler card stock. Then using sticky strip attach it to the card front.

f. Punch out 2 large in Very Vanilla Card Stock and sponge with Cherry Cobbler Classic Ink.

i. Punch out 2 mini hearts with Cherry Cobbler Card Stock.

ii. Glue mini heart to large heart.

iii. Attach large heart over ribbon area using Dimensionals.

Heart Framelits Valentine Card Tutorial

2012-01-16T08:00:00.032-07:00

If this post is not viewing properly for you via e-mail, please come to my blog to view it. There seems to be a problem with blogspot today with the e-mail version not showing the numbers for the step by step tutorial.

http://www.kreateskards.blogspot.com/2012/01/heart-framelits-valentine-card-tutorial.html

This is one of the two cards we created at class on Saturday. It is a nice surprise to open the card and realize there is a double door inside with a sentiment showing once the double doors are opened. This is a great card for Valentine's Day, an Anniversary, Thinking of You, or just to tell someone you love them. This style (double door) could be used for any occasion.

Stampin’ Up! Products Used:

Very Vanilla Card Stock, item #101650 – 1 piece 5 ½” x 8 ½” , 2 pieces 3 ¼” x 4 1/8”

Twitterpated Designer Series Paper (DSP), item #125406, 1 piece 6” x 9”

Cherry Cobbler Classic Ink, item #119669

Heart Full Paper Punch, item #119883

Heart Small Paper Punch, item #117193

Candy Conversations Stamp Set, item #125560 – Wood Only

SNAIL Adhesive, item #104332 or SNAIL Refill, item #104331

Big Short Framelits – Hearts Collection, item #125599

Jewels Basic Pearl Large, item #125577

Sticky Strip, item #104294

Directions:

1. Score the 5 ½” x 8 ½” Very Vanilla Card Stock at 4 ¼”, crisply fold.

2. Stamp inside sentiment using Cherry Cobbler Classic Ink and Candy Conversations Stamp.

3. Score top to bottome of both of the 3 ¼” x 4 1/8” Very Vanilla pieces at ½” with the 3 ¼” placed left to right.

a. Crisply fold and attach to card back using sticky strip.

4. Using the Big Shot Heart Framelits and the Twitterpated DSP, but out the 5 smaller hearts in the set of 6. When you do this, put together as close as possible on the cutting plate/paper before running thru.

a. Alternate the designs of the hearts, glue together and then adhere to the card front.

5. With the remaining DSP, punch out 2 Full hearts and 2 mini hearts.

a. Alternate the designs, glue together and then adhere them to the 2^nd layer of the card.

6. Attach the large pearl to the center of the hearts on the front.

Framelits Dies - Hearts Collection Video

2012-01-13T08:00:00.015-07:00

Stampin' Up! has just introduced a brand new product to our Big Shot line. It is called Framelits dies and currently comes in two versions:

Hearts Collection, item #125599: The innovative, thin, wafer-like design of these dies lets you see where you’re placing the design before you cut! Layer dies inside each other to cut frames for stamp images. Cut single hearts for accents or layering. Use with single sheets of card stock or Designer Series Paper. Hearts Collection coordinates with Take it to Heart Stamp Set. Largest heart is approximately 5-1/4" wide. Collection includes 6 dies in a sturdy envelope for easy storage in our Big Shot Die Storage.

AND

Labels Collection, item #125598: The innovative, thin, wafer-like design of these dies lets you see where you’re placing the design before you cut! Layer dies inside each other to cut frames for stamp images. Cut single labels for accents or layering. Use with single sheets of card stock or Designer Series Paper. Labels Collection coordinates with our Apothecary Art Stamp Set. Largest label is approximately 5-7/16" wide. Includes 6 dies in a sturdy envelope for easy storage in our Big Shot Die Storage.

I have both of these products and LOVE them. They are easy to use and so versatile. I can use as a single item or cut additional items out to layer. Works perfectly with Designer Series Paper (DSP) too.

Stampin' Up! has a video on-line showing how to use these. Thought you might like to see it. If you are reading this via e-mail, you will need to come to my blog to view the video.

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Big Shot Framelits Hearts Collection Valentine

2012-01-12T08:00:00.012-07:00

I will also have a tutorial for this card (it opens twice before seeing the inside sentiment). I had fun coming up with the idea. It's one of two cards we will be doing at class on Saturday. It uses the new Framelits Heart Collection for the Big Shot.

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

25th Wedding Anniversary AND My Digital Studio Downloads

2012-01-11T08:00:00.003-07:00

Twenty-five years ago I married the love of my life. Seems impossible how quickly the years have flown by. We actually met on a cruise to Alaska and had a whirlwind courtship getting engaged 3 weeks later and married 3 months after that.

1/11/1987 - Our wedding day

1/7/2012 - Anniversary party with a few friends.

This beautiful bouquet (all silk) was presented to us at the restaurant. Our friends, Pat & Lin, from New York ordered it as a surprise for us. We all thought the flowers were real!!! I have allergies, so silk flowers are the perfect choice. Even my wedding bouquet and head piece were silk.

The latest My Digital Studio Downloads are now available. Click HERE.
You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Pleated Ribbon and Hearts

2012-01-10T08:00:00.011-07:00

I will have a tutorial for this card on my blog next week. It uses the brand new Big Shot Framelits called Heart Collection, item #125599 AND the new Big Shot Edgelits called Adorning Accents, item #125595.

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Designer Cuts - Card & Envelope Set

2012-01-09T08:00:00.036-07:00

Hal and I are celebrating our 25th wedding anniversary this week. We have received so many beautiful cards. I thought I would share this one with you from our friends MaryT & Nick. The card showcases some of the new Stampin' Up! products so thought it would be fun to share.

Mary took the cover of the Designer Cuts Card and attached it to the green card stock, adding in a heart, some ribbon, and some lace ribbon. I love the intricate designs and backing them with a color just makes the heart pop. Designer Cuts Card Set have a design which is laser-cut and the cards come with coordinating Blushing Bride envelopes. There are 8 cards total -- 4 each of 2 designs. Card are 4 1/4" x 5 1/2" and Envelopes are 4 3/8" x 5 3/4".

Stampin' Up! Products:
Cards & Envelope Set - Designer Cuts, item #125414 (4 each of 2 designs)
Ribbon of choice
Victoria 5/8" crochet trim, item #118481

A few of us met for dinner on Saturday night. We to a Japanese restaurant with Teppan Tables (where they cook in front of you). The company and food was wonderful.

Hal and I are big fans of "Angry Birds" and this Angry Birds Rio cake was a perfect way to add to the celebration with the love birds on top. Cake was so yummy with chocolate cake, cherry filling, and buttercream frosting.

I just couldn't give up the birds, so put them on a candy dish to display. Thought they looked so cute.

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Video: Which Miche Bag is Right For You?

2012-01-07T08:00:00.026-07:00

Normally I don't post Stampin' Up! on the weekends, so am going to take advantage of it being Saturday and posting a new Miche video that I created yesterday.

If you are reading this blog post via e-mail and would like to see the video, you may watch it too by clicking HERE.

I hope that if you are considering purchasing Miche and/or Stampin' Up! products that you will use me as your Representative/Demonstrator. Both are businesses for me, ones that I thoroughly enjoy participating in. This blog will keep its main focus on Stampin' Up! products, but you will see Miche postings on it too. My Miche blog is called Perfect Purse For You.

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Video: Miche Demi Releases for January 2012

2012-01-06T08:00:00.008-07:00

As many of you are aware, not only am I a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator, but I am also an Independent Representative for Miche. I absolutely love my Miche bags and shells. I created my very first video for my Miche Blog today and thought I would share it with all of you. Miche bags come in 4 sizes (petite, classic, demi, and prima). This video shows the brand new Demi Shells for January 2012.

If you are reading this from an e-mail, the video will not be viewable unless you click HERE and watch it on YouTube.

It was so strange to do a video of myself demonstrating the bag and shells, then to watch it. With my Stampin' Up! videos I only do close-ups so you see just my hands. Now you can actually see me ... LOL.

Hope you enjoy watching it. If you would like to learn more about Miche, CLICK HERE to go to my blog: Perfect Purse for You or Click HERE to place an order for Miche.

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Feedback and Comments Are Welcome

2012-01-05T08:00:00.011-07:00

I've been a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator for 3 1/2 years and this is my 882nd blog post. I enjoy sharing paper crafting ideas and techniques and knowing that in the process of doing that that I'm helping others with their creations too.

Please feel free to leave comments and questions on my blog posts. It is one of the ways that helps me determine what you are interested in from Stampin' Up!.

Thank you for following my blog. It is greatly appreciated.

My favorite Stampin' Up! product is the Big Shot Die Cut Machine. Do you have a favorite product?

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

My Digital Studio Downloads - January 3, 2012

2012-01-04T08:00:00.002-07:00

The latest My Digital Studio Downloads are now available HERE. Lots of fun things for Valentine's Day.

Today is the first day you will be able to order from the Occasions Mini Catalog. So many new and wonderful items (many have been shown in SNEAK PEEKS the last couple of weeks too).

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

SNEAK PEEK - Blossom Paper Punch AND Mixed Bunch Stamp Set + Two New Ribbons

2012-01-03T08:00:00.028-07:00

Did you notice the flower and the butterfly are the exact same pattern? I stamped and punched out two of the same pattern, then using paper snips cut out the section on the top and bottom area to create a butterfly. The stamp set is called Mixed Bunch and I used the Blossom Paper Punch to punch the design out. These are from the new Occasions Mini Catalog. The fine ribbon is from the Sale-a-bration catalog that will premiere on January 24th. It is 1/8" Organdy Ribbon in Lucky Limeade.

Using the same stamp set (Mixed Bunch) I stamped a smaller design on the accent pattern and then added in the wonderful new Blushing Bride 3/8" Pleated Satin Ribbon.

Here's a close-up of the card. I accented the flower and butterfly with Cherry Cobbler Dazzling Details.

Stampin' Up! Products available as of January 4th, 2012.
Dazzling Details Cherry Cobbler, item #125585
3/8" Pleated Satin Ribbon Blushing Bride, item #125570
Mixed Bunch Stamp Set, item #125535 - Wood OR #125537 - Clear Mount
Blossom Paper Punch, item #125603

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

SNEAK PEEK - Occasions Sweet Pressed Cookie Stamps

2012-01-02T08:00:00.003-07:00

I had so much fun making sugar cookies and stamping an impression on each one using the Holiday Sweet Pressed Cookie Stamps (item #125152). The designs are a jack-o-latern, snowflake and a heart. Stampin' Up! is carrying that set over so you can still order it AND in addition will be premiering a brand new set on January 4th. It is called Occasions Sweet Pressed Cookie Stamps (item #127082). There is a bunny, a flower, and a shamrock.

The flower ...

The shamrock ...

AND the bunny ...

I made a double batch of these yummy cookies the other day and gave them to one of our neighbors for a party she was having at her home today. I would highly recommend the Sweet Pressed Cookie Stamps. They make such a great gift item too.

Silver Anniversary Card

2011-12-30T08:00:00.020-07:00

Thought this would be perfect for a 25th (Silver) Anniversary card. I used the Silver Glimmer Paper that is in the Holiday Mini Catalog (catalog is only valid thru January 3rd). You could use it for a Valentine Card too.

Stampin' Up! Products Used:
You Are Love Stamped Set, item #123777 - Wood OR #123779 - Clear (Holiday Mini)
Glimmer Paper - Silver, item #124005 (Holiday Mini)
Concord Crush Card Stock, item #119792
1/2" Stitched Poly Ribbon, item #119266
Full Heart Paper Punch, item #119883

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

SNEAK PEEK - Take It to Heart Stamp Set & Hearts Collection Framelits

2011-12-29T08:00:00.014-07:00

We have been busy making cards for the soldiers over seas in Afghanistan so that they will have these cards to send to family and friends towards the end of next month. I so appreciated my friends who are helping create these cards. We get together almost every week. It's been perfect that Stampin' Up! has so many heart/Valentine related items in the new Occasions Mini Catalog.

The large heart stamped image is from:
Take It To Heart Stamp Set, item #125520 - Wood OR #125522 - Clear

And it was cut out using the Big Shot Die Cutting Machine and our new:
Framelits Dies - Hearts Collection, item #125599

Both of the above items will be available for purchase as of January 4, 2012.

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

SNEAK PEEK - Embosslits and Stamp Set Perfect for Valentine's Day

2011-12-28T08:00:00.022-07:00

The Big Shot Die Cutting Machine is one of my favorite tools for card making, scrapbooking and paper crafting. It is so versatile and cuts thru a variety of products so easily.

In the 2nd photo above, the embosslits give a beautiful embossed designed to each heart. Really nice texture to them.

The SNEAK PEEKS today are:
Embosslits Die - Fashionable Hearts, item #125596 (available January 4, 2012)
Candy Conversations Single Stamp, item #125560 - Wood Only (available January 4, 2012)

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

SNEAK PEEK - Take It to Heart Stamp Set & MDS Downloads

2011-12-27T08:00:00.018-07:00

A simple Valentine using the Take It to Heart stamp set, item #125520 - Wood OR #125522 - Clear. The stamp set will be available for purchase on January 4, 2012. The stamp set has 4 heart designs and a banner desing. This set matches up with the Hearts Collection Framelits and our Full Heart Paper Punch.

The tiny white hearts were made with a Stampin' Up! Small Heart Paper Punch, item #117193 which is in our main catalog and available now. The Small Heart Paper Punch is smaller than the stamp set small heart.

The latest My Digital Studio downloads are now available HERE.

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

SNEAK PEEK - Framelits And Matching Stamp Set

2011-12-26T08:00:00.028-07:00

Front of the card.

Notice how the design is cut thru the front and then attached to the card inside.

Leave it to Stampin' Up! and Sizzix to come up with an amazing combination .... Framelits Dies for the Big Shot with stamp sets made to fit perfectly. Remember when we could only cut out an image in a card "IF" the punch would would fit. Now with Framelits, you decide where the punch out image is to go. The only limitation is that the paper you are cutting has to fit thru the Big Shot. Did you notice the gorgeous pleated satin ribbon? It's a brand new product too and will be available in 4 colors.

Here are the SNEAK PEEK items which will be available on January 4, 2012 for purchase:

Framelits Dies - Labels Collection, item #125598

Apothecary Art Stamp Set, item #125525 - Wood OR item #125527 - Clear

3/8" Pleated Satin Ribbon - Blushing Bride, item #125570

Christmas Remembrance

2011-12-25T08:00:00.025-07:00

Merry Christmas.

I have many fond memories of Christmas over the years, even dreaming of a white Christmas as a child. It was such fun when that dream would come true. Loved building snowmen and sledding. Living in AZ, where we live now, snow is not even a possibility unless we drive at least 2 hours away to the mountains/higher elevations. This Christmas my yellow rose brush has the most gorgeous yellow roses on it. I only have 1 rose brush, and I can see it from my kitchen window. We planted it in remembrance of my mom whose favorite flower was the yellow rose. It is very special to see it in full bloom today. My family is always in my heart.

Will be spending the days with wonderful friends (our extended family) so the day will be special.

Hope you will have a wonderful holiday too.

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

SNEAK PEEK Framelits Dies - Labels Collection

2011-12-23T08:00:00.001-07:00

I'm so excited that Stampin' Up! will be carrying two styles of Framelits Dies for the Big Shot in the new Occasions Mini. It even has a stamp set that is perfect match for it. The largest label is approximately 5 7/16" wide. Each collection includes 6 dies in a sturdy envelope for easy storage.

These will be available to customers on January 4th, 2012.
#125599 Hearts Collection
#125598 Labels Collection

I used the Big Shot Embosslits Die - Beautiful Wings #118138 for the multi-color butterflies on this card. This die is available now. It's on page 216 of the main catalog (Stampin' Up! Idea Book & Catalog 2011/2012.

I made this card for a friend's birthday next week.

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Kassidy's Birthday Banner

2011-12-22T08:00:00.013-07:00

Lisa, Hal, and I worked together to make this birthday banner for Kassidy's birthday on Friday, the 9th. Hal cut out the white pennants while Lisa and I used the Big Shot die cutting machine to create the scallop circles and lettering. Lisa and I sponged the edge of the pennant pieces with Cherry Cobbler Classic Ink. I think it turned out really nice.

Big Shot Die Cutting Machine, item #113439
Scallop Circle Bigz Die, item #113468
Serif Essentials Alphabet, item #113464

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Stitched Felt Embellishments, Glimmer Paper, MDS, and Stocking Builder Punch News

2011-12-21T05:33:00.001-07:00

Accents of glimmer paper and stitched felt for this card.

Stampin' Up! Products Used:
Hand-Penned Holidays Stamp Set, item #124310 - Wood OR item #123312 - Clear
Card Stock and Classic Ink of your choice
Stitched Felt - Winter Wishes, item #124108
Cherry Cobbler 1/2" Scallop Dots Ribbon, item #124138
Specialty Designer Series Paper - Holly Berry Bouquet, item #124004
Silver Glimmer Paper, item #124005
Petite Pennants Builder Paper Punch, item #122361

The latest My Digital Studio (MDS) downloads are now available, click HERE.

Stampin' Up! has just announced that the Stocking Builder Punch (item 124095) from the 2011 Holiday Mini Catalog will not be carried over. So if it is a punch you would like to own, please consider ordering it now. It has been used for so many creative projects: baby booties, hobby horse, and so much more. Once the current inventory of this punch has been depleted, it will no longer be available for purchase
You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Keep it Simple Christmas Card - Version 4

2011-12-20T08:00:00.015-07:00

I like the Silver Glimmer Paper circles as the center of the snowflakes (stitched felt).

Oh my gosh, do you believe that Christmas is just 5 days away!!! I think I will be ready. We are having friends over for dinner. Everyone will help by bringing something. I remember as a child going to my Aunt & Uncles home and there being 40 people there for dinner. What wonderful memories.

Stampin' Up! Products Used:
Hand-Penned Holidays Stamp Set, item #124310 - Wood OR item #123312 - Clear
Card Stock and Classic Ink of your choice
Stitched Felt - Winter Wishes, item #124108
Cherry Cobbler 1/2" Scallop Dots Ribbon, item #124138
Silver Glimmer Paper, item #124005

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Keep it Simple Christmas Card - Version 3

2011-12-19T08:00:00.022-07:00

Another Keep it Simple card.

Many of these cards have already been mailed to my friends and family. They were so much fun to make. I enjoyed trying to come up with different looks using the same products. Just when I find a new favorite, another one steals my heart.

Stampin' Up! Products Used:
Hand-Penned Holidays Stamp Set, item #124310 - Wood OR item #123312 - Clear
Card Stock and Classic Ink of your choice
Stitched Felt - Winter Wishes, item #124108
Cherry Cobbler 1/2" Scallop Dots Ribbon, item #124138

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Card Stock Accents and Sponging

2011-12-16T08:00:00.013-07:00

I changed the look of this card by adding in a rectangle of Cherry Cobbler Card Stock under the rectangle of Very Vanilla Card Stock. Sponging the edges of the Very Vanilla allows the edges to stand out and makes the design "POP". Thought the Stitched Felt was the perfect addition to this card.

Stampin' Up! Products Used:
Hand-Penned Holidays Stamp Set, item #124310 - Wood OR item #123312 - Clear
Card Stock and Classic Ink of your choice
Stitched Felt - Winter Wishes, item #124108

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Stampin' Up! Clearance Rack Blitz - WOW

2011-12-15T09:28:00.000-07:00

You don't want to miss this great clearance sale!!!!!

Dates: December 15, 2011-January 5, 2012

Details:
Nearly 200 new Clearance Rack items are being added to the Online Store at discounts up to 80 percent off retail--while supplies last!
Things to Remember

Only online orders qualify for this promotion. Orders can include non-Clearance Rack items, as well.
The Clearance Rack Blitz includes old-body style punches.
There is no minimum purchase required to participate in this promotion.
Qualifying Clearance Rack orders are eligible for hostess benefits/Stampin' Rewards.
Clearance Rack Blitz items are only available while supplies last. There are no refunds or exchanges on Clearance Rack items unless the item is defective.

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now. There is a Clearance Rack section you can click on at the left of your screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Stitched Felt Embellishments

2011-12-15T08:00:00.010-07:00

The Stitched Felt - Winter Wishes is in our Holiday Mini Catalog. They are perfect for cards, scrapbook pages, or to embellish a gift box or bag. So many things you can use them for. There are 16 pieces - 4 each of 4 designs (pair of mittens, snowflake, wreath, and holly).

The card above has been sponged with Cherry Cobbler Classic Ink, item #119669.

Stampin' Up! Products Used:
Hand-Penned Holidays Stamp Set, item #124310 - Wood OR item #123312 - Clear
Card Stock and Classic Ink of your choice
Stitched Felt - Winter Wishes, item #124108

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Keep it Simple Christmas Card - Version 2

2011-12-14T08:00:00.019-07:00

This card is very similar to the one I posted yesterday except that I added in sponged highlights and a paper punched border. When you sponged highlights you can do it lightly or dark. I actually sponged over the full front of the card and then heavily sponged the bottom edge.

Stampin' Up! Products Used:
Hand-Penned Holidays Stamp Set, item #124310 - Wood OR item #123312 - Clear
Card Stock and Classic Ink of your choice
Cherry Cobbler 1/2" Scallop Dots Ribbon, item #124138

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Keep it Simple Christmas Card & Digital Downloads

2011-12-13T08:00:00.011-07:00

Keeping the design simple but elegant was my goal for this card. I used a Very Vanilla card stock base and then added in strip of Cherry Cobbler strips of card stock that had been accented with Cherry Cobbler ribbon.

Stampin' Up! Products Used:
Hand-Penned Holidays Stamp Set, item #124310 - Wood OR item #123312 - Clear
Card Stock and Classic Ink of your choice
Cherry Cobbler 1/2" Scallop Dots Ribbon, item #124138

Hand-Penned Holiday Stamp Set

2011-12-12T08:00:00.019-07:00

First, I want to let all of you know that my Stampin' Up! website is now back up and working. This affected thousands of demonstrators. Your patience and understanding was greatly appreciated.

As you may have noticed many of the Christmas cards I am showing are made using the Hand-Penned Holiday Stamp Set. I want to show how you can use the same stamp set but have many different cards and looks. The Stitched Felt is one of my favorite aembellishments this holiday season.

Stampin' Up! Products Used:
Hand-Penned Holidays Stamp Set, item #124310 - Wood OR item #123312 - Clear
Card Stock and Classic Ink of your choice
Stitched Felt - Winter Wishes, item #124108
Two Tags BigZ Die, item #115954

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

My Stampin' Up! Website is temporarily down - Update

2011-12-11T09:32:00.000-07:00

My Stampin' Up! website is still unaccessible this morning for many of my customers. Stampin' Up! is working hard to resolve this issue for their demonstrators. It has affected thousands of us.

I apologize for any inconvenience this has caused any of you. I know this is a busy holiday shopping weekend for you.

If you would like to place an order for Stampin' Up! products and have been unable to access my website using: http://marydirector.stampinup.net there is a work around using this link:

http://www.stampinup.com/ECWeb/default.aspx?dbwsdemoid=2041100

Also, if you would prefer, you may contact me to place the order for you. I can place it thru the demonstrator only website. The only thing I cannot order is the Clearance Rack items. They have to be ordered by the customer only thru the website (either link above).

Another version of the card I posted yesterday.

Jolly Jingle Bits Stamp Set

Item #120857 -Wood ORItem #121187 - Clear Mount

Jolly Jingles Jumbo Wheel, item #120864

My Stampin' Up! Website is temporarily down

2011-12-10T05:40:00.002-07:00

Jolly Jingle Bits Stamp Set

Item #120857 -Wood ORItem #121187 - Clear Mount

Jolly Jingles Jumbo Wheel, item #120864

Good Morning Everyone,

I just want to let you know that my Stampin' Up! website is temporarily down. Stampin' Up! is aware of the problem and is working hard to get it back up and running as quickly as possible. This situation has affected many Stampin' Up! Demonstrators and our customers. This is the first time in the 3 1/2 years I've been a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator that this has happened.

This is a photo of the screen you will see while the system is being worked on by Stampin' Up! and Network Solutions. While this screen is active, customers are not able to order from my site.

It is such a busy time of the year, it is unfortunate this has happened. But there is still a silver lining in this .... I can still place your order for you thru the demonstrator only website. All you need to do is contact me (via e-mail or phone) and I will be able to place the order for you. If you e-mail, please include your phone number and a good time to call you (don't forget to let me know what time zone you are in). Just a reminder too NOT to include any credit card information in the e-mail, I will get that from you once I talk to you. My e-mail link is on the top of this page. I can order whatever Stampin' Up! products you need with the exception of Clearance Items which can only be ordered by a customer through my Stampin' Up! website.

Again, I apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused you. When I called Demonstrator Support, they said they felt the problem would be resolved today.

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Red and Silver Glimmer Christmas Card

2011-12-09T08:00:00.026-07:00

As many of you know glimmer paper is one of my favorite products, the more sparkle the better. When you layer glimmer paper it is extremely important to put your glue dot, sticky tape or multi-purpose liquid glue on the back of one piece of glimmer paper then press it firmly on top of the other piece of glimmer paper. If you try to put the adhesive directly on the glitter it will not stick. I found my method works well. I bead up the liquid glue a bit so it will spread into the glitter below. Then set the item aside to dry.

I use the multi-purpose liquid glue on the back of the felt to adhere it to the card. It is item #110755.

Stampin' Up! Products Used:
Hand-Penned Holidays Stamp Set, item #124310 - Wood OR item #123312 - Clear
Card Stock and Classic Ink of your choice
Stitched Felt - Winter Wishes, item #124108
Red Glimmer Paper, item #121790
Silver Glimmer Paper, item #124005
Scallop Circle BigZ Die, item #113468
Scallop Circle #2 BigZ Die, item #113469
Itty Bitty Shapes Punch Pack, item #118309
1/2" Circle Paper Punch, item #119869

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

SNEAK PEEK Paper Doily Large Sizzlits Die & 8mm Large Pearls

2011-12-09T05:47:00.000-07:00

Stampin' Up! has a brand new Large Sizzlits Die called Paper Doily that will premiere in the Occasions Mini Catalog as of January 4. The cut out doily is approximately 4 1/4" in diameter. I can see many uses for this die. I used it on a card front - perfect fit for an A-2 card and then combined three together to create a paper doily to put under one of our Pocket Dragons (a collectible).

There are three doily patterns put together. I love the intricate design. I used a paper piercer to poke out all the little pieces.

Doesn't our little Pocket Dragon look great on this paper doily!

Here's one on a card front.

A touch of red glimmer paper to add a bit of sparkle and then a brand new Jewels - Large Pearl to add to the center.

SNEAK PEEK ITEMS: (available January 4, 2012)

Large Sizzlits Die - Paper Doily, item #125592

Jewels - Large Pearl Basic Jewels, item #12577

Dazzling Details All Occasion Card

2011-12-08T08:00:00.013-07:00

Stampin' Up! Products Used:
1/2" Scallop Dots Ribbon, Cherry Cobbler, item #124138
Very Vanilla Card Stock, item #101650
Cherry Cobbler Card Stock, item #119685
Cherry Cobbler Classic Ink, item #119669
Dazzling Details, item #124117

Here's another card that could be used for any occasion. Very versatile and easy to swap out the colors of your choice. I used dots of Dazzling Details to accent the card along with the ribbon.

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Flowers for any Occasion

2011-12-07T08:00:00.019-07:00

I feel that this card would work for so many different occasions. I often make up a few like this to have handy in case I need a last minute card for someone. The Paper Daisies can be used as white or sponge with any color you want. The package has 40 daisies: 10 ea of 4 sizes (approximate sizes are 3", 2 1/8", 1 1/4", and 5/8" All 4 sizes are shown on the card.) The daisies are easy to layer and accent with a brad or a button.

Stampin' Up! Products Used:
Paper Daisies, item #119243
Silver Brads, item #104336
1/2" Scallop Dots Ribbon, Cherry Cobbler, item #124138
Very Vanilla Card Stock, item #101650
Cherry Cobbler Card Stock, item #119685
Cherry Cobbler Classic Ink, item #119669

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Stampin' Up!'s Own Shelli Gardner on the Today Show

2011-12-06T22:03:00.000-07:00

Click HERE to watch Shelli Gardner on the Today Show.

Stampin' Up! does a great deal for charity. I'm glad to be part of the team.

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

My Digital Studio Downloads - December 6, 2011

2011-12-06T09:16:00.000-07:00

The latest My Digital Studio downloads are now available HERE.

Click HERE to see ALL of the My Digital Studio Downloads that have been offered.

Merry Christmas Card With Designer Buttons

2011-12-06T08:00:00.023-07:00

Buttons can make such a difference in the look of a card. The Designer Buttons - Holly Berry Bouquet are the perfect touch for a Christmas Card. There are 48 pieces total in the package: 12 ea of 2 designs in 2 colors (Real Red and Wild Wasabi). Think beyond Christmas and these buttons could be used for Valentine's Day and Saint Patrick's Day too. Very versatile.

Stampin' Up! Products Used:
Designer Buttons - Holly Berry Bouquet, item #125636
Decorative Label Paper Punch, item #120907
Whisper White Card Stock, item #100730
Cherry Cobbler Card Stock, item #119685
Cherry Cobbler Classic Ink, item #119669
Mini Glue Dots, item #103683 (to adhere the buttons)
SNAIL Adhesive, item #104332 .... refill, item #104331
Hand-Penned Holidays Stamp Set, item #124310 - Wood OR item #124312 - Clear

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

SNEAK PEEK Designer Rosette Bigz XL Die

2011-12-05T08:01:00.006-07:00

This rosette which measures 10 1/2 inches across was made using a brand new Stampin' Up! Bigz XL die called Designer Rosette. It will be available to customers in the Occasions Mini Catalog that premieres January 4th.

Bigz SL Die - Designer Rosette, item #125594 - available January 4th

I cut out 3 of these, attached them together using sticky strip. After hooking them together, you start applying pressure to get the rosette to lay flat. I used a hot glue gun to attach a large circle to the front and to the back. Apply pressure until dry.

Other Stampin' Up! Products Used:
Bigz Clear Die - Clear Circle, item #114533
Bigz Die - Serif Essentials Alphabet, item #113464
Card stock of choice
Extended Premium Crease Pad, item #117630 - needed because of all the folds/creases
Extended Cutting Pads, item #113478
Big Shot Die-Cutting Machine, item #113439
Sticky Strip, item #104294

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

My Digital Studio Hanukkah Card

2011-12-05T08:00:00.003-07:00

The Happy Hanukkah Card was 99% made using My Digital Studio software. The Menorah, pearls, ribbon and bows are all digital downloads. Like the card yesterday, I printed the design out on my color printer then attached it to card stock to create my card. When you are creating something like this, you can print just the background and the Menorah then actually add in actual pearls, ribbons, and bows rather than the digital images of them like I did above.

My Digital Studio, item #118108

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

My Digital Studio Christmas Card

2011-12-02T08:00:00.009-07:00

This card was made 99% using My Digital Studio software from Stampin' Up!. I printed the image out on my Epson printer, then adhered it to a piece of card stock to create a Christmas card. The glitter brads, bows, and designs are all images from My Digital Studio.

My Digital Studio would be an amazing gift. It is item #118108.

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Holiday Count Down

2011-12-01T08:00:00.033-07:00

Does it seem possible that the holidays are just a couple weeks away. December is always such a wonderful time of the year to spend time with friends and family. This year has been extremely busy, and December will be no exception.

For the next couple of weeks (thru the 18th), I'm spending time with my wonderful husband. I will be checking e-mails so will stay on top of your orders. My blog has posts loaded for Monday thru Friday each week and if there is any breaking news I will be sure to let you know.

Hope you all have a wonderful holiday season.

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Valentine Card Sample 4

2011-11-30T08:00:00.022-07:00

I'm very pleased with the layering of this card. Amazing what you can do with card stock layered and also some ribbon. I used the Pinking Hearts Border Paper Punch to create the layer under the ribbon. It has tiny little hearts. This is the last of my Valentine samples for now. Starting tomorrow will start showcasing holiday cards.

Stampin' Up! products used:
You Are Loved Stamp Set, item #123777 - Wood OR Item #127779 - Clear
Stampin' Up! Card Stock & Ink of your choice
Pretty in Pink 1/2" Scallop Dots Ribbon, item #124141
Pinking Hearts Border Paper Punch, item #117649

A bonus card today using the You Are Loved Stamp Set also.

Also there are new My Digital Studio Downloads too:

Click here to see the latest downloads.

A reminder too that the Online Extravaganza ends today. There are items up to 60% off!!! Oh my gosh, I took advantage of these sales myself. Here's the complete list of all the discounted products for this promotion in pdf file format. Click HERE.

Things to Remember

Discounted digital downloads are only available on online order types.
There is no minimum purchase required to participate in this promotion.
For product bundles, you must use the bundle item numbers provided. Bundle discounts will not be applied if individual item numbers are used.
Additional products from current catalogs may be purchased on the same order.
Discounts range between 20 and 60 percent.

Let me know if you have any questions. There are some really great deals here. Don't miss out.

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Valentine Card Sample 3

2011-11-29T08:00:00.026-07:00

The shadow effect behind the marker was done by combining a scallop circle (cutting off the bottom scallops) and a rectangle. I rounded the corners of the rectangle with scissors. Sentiment may be stamped inside. The hearts were randomly placed and then I added the mini pearls to each one. Really like the effect, don't you?

Stampin' Up! products used:
You Are Loved Stamp Set, item #123777 - Wood OR Item #127779 - Clear
2 3/8" Scallop Circle Paper Punch, item # 118874
Small Heart Paper Punch, item #117193
Stampin' Up! Card Stock & Ink of your choice
Pretty in Pink 1/2" Scallop Dots Ribbon, item #124141
Jewels - Basic Pearls, item #119247
Two Tags BigZ Die, item #115954

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Valentine Card Sample 2

2011-11-28T08:00:00.015-07:00

I really like the You Are Loved Stamp Set. Very versatile and can be used for many occasions. It is in the Stampin' Up! Holiday Mini Catalog. The catalog is only valid until January 3. If you want this stamp set, I highly recommend ordering it soon so you don't miss out. I can see it used for anniversary, wedding, Valentine's Day, and so much more.

Stampin' Up! products used:
You Are Loved Stamp Set, item #123777 - Wood OR Item #127779 - Clear
Full Heart Paper Punch, item #119883
Elegant Lines Textured Impressions Embossing Folder, item #119277
Scallop Trim Border Paper Punch, item #118402
Stampin' Up! Card Stock & Ink of your choice
You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Lollipop Bouquet Tutorial

2011-11-27T12:06:00.000-07:00

Who wouldn't love a lollipop bouquet for a birthday or any special occasion. This was so fun and didn't even take an hour to make. It is for a very special little girl in our lives. Her birthday is December 9th, and she has no idea "yet" that I have made this for her.

Here's a close up of the bouquet. The lollipops are packed in tightly.

The finishing touch was a large bow using Stampin' Up! 1 1/4" Striped Grosgrain Ribbon which is available in 11 different colors.   This one is Daffodil Delight.

Supplies Needed:
Stampin' Up! 1 1/4" Striped Grosgrain Ribbon - Daffodil Delight, item #1197770
Vase or Flower Pot about 5 1/2"
Marbles or rocks to weight the vase down.
1 Bag Dum Dum Pops 42.8 oz bag (250 pops in it)
5" Styrofoam Ball (any color)
Glue Gun

Directions:
1. Fill your vase or flower pot with marbles or rocks to weight it down. If this step is skipped, the bouquet could easily fall over when the pops are pulled out.   Because I used a clear vase, I filled it with iridescent marbles almost to the top.

2. I put hot glue around the edge of the vase (you have to work quickly) and then immediately placed the Styrofoam ball on top. Because my vase had a ruffled edge to it, I then went back and filled in the openings with hot glue to really secure it to the vase.

3. Starting at the top, start placing pops in the Styrofoam. Keep pops close together for a fuller effect and to cover the Styrofoam. You can go back in and fill in if needed. Press pops in securely.

4.   Tie a bow around the vase and the bouquet is ready to give as a gift or use as a centerpierce.

The original idea for this came from Meet The Dubiens blog.

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Valentine Card Sample 1

2011-11-25T08:00:00.024-07:00

Hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving. Ours was very nice.

The next few days I want to showcase some Valentine cards I've made that were made this last week for Cards for Soldiers Overseas. The unit that we send to is stationed in Afghanistan. We make cards for them so that they have cards to send home to friends and family. I have a wonderful group of ladies that help each week with this project. I'm extremely grateful to all that they do to help.

Stampin' Up! products used:
You Are Loved Stamp Set, item #123777 - Wood OR Item #127779 - Clear
Full Heart Paper Punch, item #119883
Elegant Lines Textured Impressions Embossing Folder, item #119277
Top Note BigZ Die, item #113463
Stampin' Up! Card Stock & Ink of your choice

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Wishing You A Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-23T08:00:00.021-07:00

I am thankful for so many things. You have given me such joy by following my blog and letting me know how much the tutorials, photos, and information have helped you.

I hope you each have a wonderful Thanksgiving tomorrow surrounded by family and friends.

There will not be a blog post on Thursday (Thanksgiving), but I will return on Friday.

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

My Digital Studio Downloads - November 21, 2011

2011-11-22T08:00:00.019-07:00

New Digital Downloads are now available ... CLICK HERE to view.

Remember too that the On-line Extravaganza is going on all this view. To read more about it, click here. What a great opportunity to receive 20% to 60% off many Stampin' Up! products.

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Stampin' Up! Online Extravaganza Starts NOW !!!!

2011-11-21T00:19:00.003-07:00

Sales runs from today thru November 30th.

Stampin' Up! is offering two wonderful items at 20% Today Only:
   Simply Scored Scoring Tool, item #122334 on sale for $23.96
     Sweet Pressed Cookie Stamps, item #125152 on sale for $13.56

Then if you go to my on-line store, you will see a large number of Stampin' Up! products for 20% to 60% off !!!! just click on Shop Now then Online Extravaganza to see all the products. There are even exclusive bundles and digital downloads at 25% to 40% off. Don't miss out on this great sale that runs from today thru November 30th.   Place your order on-line and I will e-mail you as soon as it ships.

Perfect items for yourself, for gifts, and just because ....

Important NOTE: Visit my official Stampin' Up! website to place your orders.

Here's the complete list of all the discounted products for this promotion in pdf file format. Click HERE.

Things to Remember

Discounted digital downloads are only available on online order types.
There is no minimum purchase required to participate in this promotion.
For product bundles, you must use the bundle item numbers provided. Bundle discounts will not be applied if individual item numbers are used.
Additional products from current catalogs may be purchased on the same order.
Discounts range between 20 and 60 percent.

American Red Cross: Holiday Mail for Heroes Program

2011-11-19T08:00:00.016-07:00

Holiday Mail for Heroes Program Overview

The holiday season is just around the corner and it’s time again to start thinking about being part of the 2011 American Red Cross Holiday Mail for Heroes. For a fifth year, American Red Cross and Pitney Bowes are partnering to ensure all Americans have an opportunity to send a touch of home this holiday season to members of our U.S. military, veterans and their families, many of whom will be far away from home this holiday season.

Starting this fall and throughout the holiday season, the Red Cross is working with Pitney Bowes, a mail stream technology company, to collect and distribute holiday cards to American service members, veterans and their families in the United States and around the world.

The process is very simple and takes no time at all - All you need is a pen and piece of paper to share your appreciation for the sacrifices members of the U.S. Armed Forces make to protect our freedoms The Holiday Mail for Heroes mail box is open and ready to receive for your cards. Please send all mail to:

Holiday Mail For Heroes
P.O. Box 5456
Capitol Heights, MD 20791-5456

Sending a “touch of home” to American men and women who serve our country is the perfect way to express your appreciation and support during the holiday season.

Card Guidelines:
Every card received will be screened for hazardous materials by Pitney Bowes and then reviewed by Red Cross volunteers working around the country.
Please observe the following guidelines to ensure a quick reviewing process:

All cards being sent in for 2011 Holiday Mail For Heroes program should be postmarked no later than Friday, December 9, 2011.
Ensure that all cards are signed.
Use generic salutations such as “Dear Service Member.” Cards addressed to specific individuals can not be delivered through this program.
Only cards are being accepted. Do not send letters.
Do not include email or home addresses on the cards, as the program is not meant to foster pen pal relationships.
Do not include inserts of any kind, including photos, as these items will be removed during the reviewing process.
We encourage participants to mail as many cards as they are comfortable sending. If you are mailing a large quantity, please bundle the cards and place them in large mailing envelopes or use a flat rate box from the post office. Each card does not need its own envelope, as cards will be removed from all envelopes before distribution.
Please refrain from sending holiday cards with glitter. Many of these cards will be delivered to military and veterans medical facilities and the glitter could interfere with a patient's recovery

Mary's Note: If each of us sent at least one card, think how many would be sent. Even one card can make a world of difference.

Stampin' Up! Online Extravaganza Starts Monday

2011-11-18T09:08:00.000-07:00

Online Extravaganza, our annual sale to kick off the holiday shopping season, will begin Monday, November 21, 2011, and run through Wednesday, November 30, 2011.

Stop by my Online Store on Monday, November 21, to take advantage of great savings, like FREE digital downloads valued at $40 when you buy My Digital Studio Express, 60 percent off select Designer Fabrics, and 30 percent off an exclusive ribbon bundle! In addition, there will be two items on sale for 24 hours only (November 21, 12:01 AM - 11:59 PM [MT])-so make sure you don't miss the first 24 hours of Online Extravaganza!

These special offers will not be extended past the deadline. More information will be posted on Monday. These specials need to be purchased thru my Online Store. Let me know if you have any questions.

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Valentine's Day (Yes, I realize this is early)

2011-11-18T08:00:00.001-07:00

(This is a Valentine card I made last year with Stampin' Up! Glimmer Paper.)

Would you believe I've been working on Valentine Cards this week???? It's true. My wonderful ladies that meet here every Tuesday and I are making Valentine Cards for the soldiers overseas. The unit we send to is in Afghanistan. We create cards for them so that they have cards to send home to their friends and families.

Last week we shipped two big boxes of cards (Christmas/Hanukkah/New Years and Misc occasions cards) to them. So it was time to start on our next holiday and misc cards too. We made a good dent in the cards this week. So next week I will showcase the Valentine cards I made that were done with current Stampin' Up! products.

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Kraft Gift Box With Matching Spring Card Samples Continued

2011-11-17T08:00:00.018-07:00

The Kraft Gift Boxes are not just for the holidays, you could use them for any occasion where you need a small gift box. I created the ruffled flower myself using the 2 1/2" scallop circle punch from Stampin' Up!. You will find the video tutorial for the flower (smaller version - same technique tho) HERE.

Stampin' Up! Products Used:
Designer Series Paper, item #122381 (Hostess Gift)
Kraft Gift Box, item #124106
3/8" Quilted Satin Ribbon - Cherry Cobbler, item #124105

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Kraft Gift Box With Matching Spring Card Samples

2011-11-16T08:00:00.008-07:00

Was a busy weekend with classes ... wanted to share with you some of the gift boxes and spring cards that I made. So pleased with the results and think they will make great Christmas gifts (the box filled with sugar cookies or chocolates).

Yesterday's blog post was the tutorial for decorating the Kraft Gift Box and the Spring card decorations were from Split Coast Stampers. Just a reminder that a square card like this right now requires 64 cents for postage (postage is going up in January 2012).

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Decorated Kraft Gift Box Tutorial

2011-11-15T08:00:00.004-07:00

Stampin’ Up! Products Used:

Specialty Designer Series Paper (DSP) – Holly Berry Bouquet, item #124004

1 piece 3 ½ x 3 ½ for top

1 piece 2 ½ x 3 ½ for back side

1 piece 2 ½ x 10 ½ for side/front/side

Kraft Gift Box, item #124106

3/8” Quilted Satin Ribbon – Cherry Cobbler, item #124105 – 1 piece 22” long

Stitched Felt – Winter Wishes, item #124108

Mini Jingle Bells, item #124116

SNAIL, item #104332

Mini Glue Dots, item #103683

Multipurpose Liquid Glue, item #110755

Directions:

1. Assemble your Kraft Gift Box.

2. Adhere the 2 ½ x 10 ½ piece of DSP to the left side, front, and right side using SNAIL. Go slowly starting on the side of the box and work your way around.

3. Adhere the 2 ½ x 3 ½ piece to the back side of the box.

4. Adhere the 3 ½ x 3 ½ piece to the top of the box.

5. Wrap ribbon around the box and tie – I used a knot style on mine. Ribbon should stay in place, but you could use a glue dot if you would like.

6. Using Multipurpose Liquid Glue attach the wreath to the top of the box, then with glue dots attach the mini jingle bells.

Saturday's Classes

2011-11-14T08:00:00.024-07:00

Saturday's classes went extremely well. We worked on decorating kraft boxes (yes, Stampin' Up! sells them) and then making matching spring cards. The directions for the spring card can be found on Split Coast Stampers and I will have a tutorial posted tomorrow of how to decorate the kraft box. The kraft boxes are perfect for a small gift or for our "sweet press cookie stamps". They should hold 3 or 4 good sized cookies.

Stampin' Up! Products:
Kraft Gift Box (set of 4), item #124106
Sweet Pressed Cookie Stamps, item #125512

To read more about the Sweet Pressed Cookie Stamps, CLICK HERE.
I really think these will make GREAT holiday gifts or stocking stuffers.

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Stocking Accents Card 4 - Christmas

2011-11-11T08:00:00.010-07:00

This is the 4th and final card in this week's series of Christmas Cards. Hope you enjoyed viewing the cards. You can use these type of designs as a card map and from there make a card for any occasion. The holiday cards I made could have their look changed by switching out colors and designs. The sky is the limit.

Stampin' Up! Products Used:
Dazzling Details, item #124117 (Holiday Mini Catalog)
Big Shot Originals Die - Stocking Accents, item # 124099 (Holiday Mini Catalog)
Big Shot Bigz Die - Scallop Squares Duo, item #120903
Brushed Silver Card Stock, item #100712
Whisper White Card Stock, item #100730
Cherry Cobbler Card Stock, item #119685

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Stocking Accents Card 3 - Christmas

2011-11-10T08:00:00.003-07:00

This is card #3 in my series of 4 designs this week. Altho I am planning to use this card for Christmas, it could be used for any occasion. Change it out, using your choice of colors.

Stampin' Up! Products Used:
Dazzling Details, item #124117 (Holiday Mini Catalog)
Big Shot Bigz Die - Scallop Squares Duo, item #120903
Brushed Silver Card Stock, item #100712
Whisper White Card Stock, item #100730
Cherry Cobbler Card Stock, item #119685
Stampin' Up! Paper Punches

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Stocking Accents Card 2 - Christmas

2011-11-09T08:00:00.005-07:00

This is the 2nd card in my series of 4 this week using the Stocking Accents die for the Big Shot. I accented the ornaments using Dazzling Diamonds too. The look of the card can be changed just by switching out the center designs and/or by changing the orientation of the card from landscape to portrait. Wouldn't highlights of our pearls look great on this card too.

Stampin' Up! Products Used:
Dazzling Details, item #124117 (Holiday Mini Catalog)
Big Shot Originals Die - Stocking Accents, item # 124099 (Holiday Mini Catalog)
Big Shot Bigz Die - Scallop Squares Duo, item #120903
Brushed Silver Card Stock, item #100712
Whisper White Card Stock, item #100730
Cherry Cobbler Card Stock, item #119685

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

My Digital Studio Downloads - November 8, 2011

2011-11-08T09:29:00.000-07:00

The latest My Digital Studio downloads are now available. Click HERE to view.

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Stocking Accents Card 1 - Christmas

2011-11-08T08:00:00.033-07:00

This week I am going to share with you 4 samples of cards I made using two Big Shot dies, Whisper White card stock, Brushed Silver card stock, Cherry Cobbler card stock, and Dazzling Details glitter glue.

This is the first card I made. I accented the candy cane using Dazzling Details. When you use Dazzling Details, be sure to set the card aside to allow the glitter glue to completely dry. The candy cane has serrated markings on it, so it was easy to determine where the lines of Dazzling Details should go.

Stampin' Up! Products Used:
Dazzling Details, item #124117 (Holiday Mini Catalog)
Big Shot Originals Die - Stocking Accents, item # 124099 (Holiday Mini Catalog)
Big Shot Bigz Die - Scallop Squares Duo, item #120903
Brushed Silver Card Stock, item #100712
Whisper White Card Stock, item #100730
Cherry Cobbler Card Stock, item #119685

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Another FREE My Digital Studio Download - Limited Time Offer

2011-11-07T22:56:00.000-07:00

From Stampin' Up!'s My Digital Studio site:

And guess what? We set a goal to have 5,000 new friends visit our site and receive the free downloads, and we exceeded that goal! Woo hoo! We’re psyched, and we wanted to share our excitement with you—in the form of one more free download!

CLICK HERE for the Download
It's towards the bottom of the screen.
This download is only available for FREE until November 20th.

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

I Dig You Version 2 Card

2011-11-07T08:00:00.004-07:00

I really like the "I Dig You" stamp set. I had paper cuts done from my class two weeks ago so thought I would make another one. This time I used Cherry Cobbler for the ink color. It matched up quite well. The 2nd card is the one we did in class, and there is a tutorial here for it.

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Digital Scrapbooking Day Free Downloads now Available

2011-11-04T08:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Stampin’ Up!’s four-day Digital Scrapbooking celebration. We are kicking it off by offering free downloads to EVERYONE! (Click HERE for details.) Be sure to read down to the bottom of the link. Then click on the "complete this brief survery" to receive your free downloads. If Stampin' Up! gets 5,000 new friends to download then they will everyone a 5th free download!!!!

If you would like to see photos of the downloads, Stampin' Up! has posted a pdf file HERE.

These downloads can be used with most design software programs.

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

My Apologies ... Link Correction

2011-11-03T12:04:00.000-07:00

Earlier today I posted a link in my blog update that was supposed to take you to my microwave popcorn cover tutorial instead took you to AZ Wine Company. I received a comment plus an e-mail letting me know about the mistake and have now corrected it. This was a mistake on my part. A friend had asked for the link to the wine company at the same time I was updating my blog.

So if you would like to see the tutorial for the microwave popcorn covers, CLICK HERE.

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

More Microwave Popcorn Covers & Christmas Stocking Cards

2011-11-03T08:00:00.003-07:00

I've been making more of the Microwave Popcorn Cover & Christmas Stocking Cards that were showcased on my blog on October 25th. Click here for the tutorial. I'm trying to get a few gift items made now, and the days seem to be flying by.

I also made one with a white stocking liner rather than the scallop circles. Like both styles.

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Big Shot Petite Pocket Die Christmas Card

2011-11-02T06:53:00.000-07:00

I absolutely LOVE my Big Shot Die Cut Machine from Stampin' Up!. There are so many dies, embossing folders, and more to choose from. I just purchased the Petite Pocket Bigz XL die. This is the first card that I made with it the other day. The little pocket is just wide enough for a gift card or you could put a special message inside. Be sure to use sticky strip to hold the pocket together. The pocket will be opened and closed many times I'm sure, so the sticky strip is much more durable/stronger than regular adhesive. Because the card is a darker color (Cherry Cobbler) I did adhere a piece of Very Vanilla card stock inside the card for a hand written message.

Stampin' Up! Products:
BigZ XL Die, item #123131 (Pg 221 of the main catalog)
Stitched Felt - Winter Wishes, item #124108 (Holiday Mini Catalog - Pg 30)
Jolly Bingo Bits Stamp Set, item #120857 - Wood OR item #121187 - Clear
1/2" Scallop Dots Ribbon - Cherry Cobbler, item #124138
Sticky Strip, item #104294
Scallop Trim Border Paper Punch, item #118402
Stampin' Up! Card Stock and Classic Ink of your choice.

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

My Digital Studio Downloads - November 1, 2011

2011-11-01T13:36:00.000-07:00

The latest My Digital Studio downloads can be viewed HERE.

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Digital Scrapbooking Day - FREE Downloads

2011-11-01T08:00:00.019-07:00

Dates: November 4-7, 2011

Details: Celebrate Digital Scrapbooking Day with Stampin' Up! for a four-day online event designed to introduce more of our demonstrators and customers to our digital content. Digital Scrapbooking Day is November 5, but we'll keep the celebration going from November 4-7! The event will include free downloads, blog posts with exciting project ideas all weekend long, and the announcement of the 2011 My Digital Studio Contest winners.

Customers can access the free downloads from MyDigitalStudio.net November 4-7, after completing a quick survey.

Brand-new, never seen before FREE downloads include:

So Typefelt Stamp Brush Set
Neutral Delightful Digital Tape
Home for the Holidays Ensemble
Delight in the Day Photobook Template

Mark your calendars ... there are some really nice downloads being offered for FREE. After the event, they will become part of our regular to purchase downloads.

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Get a FREE Big Shot Die Cut Machine From Stampin' Up! - Extended to November 11, 2011

2011-10-31T14:22:00.000-07:00

Stampin' Up!'s promotion for a FREE Big Shot (or $100 in merchandise of your choice from Stampin' Up!) has been extended to November 11, 2011. Have you been thinking about becoming a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator? If yes, let me know and I will send you additional information. Stampin' Up! has both business demonstrators (those that want to earn an income from sales) and hobby demonstrators (those who just want a discount on their purchases). My team has both types, and I'm always looking for additional members of my team.

Here's the link to the original flyer .. CLICK HERE

Additional information is available HERE. about becoming a demonstrator. All new demonstrator are required to purchase a starter kit for $175 (free shipping). The starter kit is valued at over $340 worth of merchandise and business items. You can choose from the Standard Starter Kit or the Digital Starter Kit.

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Jean Purse Gift

2011-10-31T08:00:00.036-07:00

All my life I have done crafts. I have crocheted, knit, embroidered, liquid embroidery, latch hook, sewing, and even cake decorating (my largest cake was for 400 people), plus candy making and more. This post doesn't pertain to Stampin' Up!, but I just had to share my latest project with you.

Yesterday we were going thru a material section of a big box store and I saw this jean purse for a child (or someone who likes really small purses). I then found the butterfly buttons and knew I had found a great gift for a dear friend's daughter. As soon as we got home last night I sewed the buttons on the front pockets and the back pocket too. The purse was a big hit with Kassidy (age 5) when we gave it to her tonight as a surprise. The purse also contained a 2 pack of gluten free cookies for her as a pre-Halloween treat.

Hope you all have a Spooktacular Halloween.

The photo of Hal and I was taken last Halloween.

Spring Card for Christmas

2011-10-28T08:00:00.012-07:00

This is my second project for next month's class (1st was showcased yesterday on my blog). This is called a Spring Card. It is very easy to create. It lays flat in the envelope and springs up and stands alone.

I used a Whisper White card base and decorated it with DSP and stitched felt.

Stampin' Up! Products:

Specialty Designer Series Paper - Holly Berry Bouquet, item #124004
Stitched Felt - Winter Wishes, item #124108
Square Envelopes - 5 1/2" x 5 1/2" - Medium (20 per pkg)
Whisper White, item #107289
NOTE: This size envelope may require extra postage.

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Decorated Kraft Gift Box

2011-10-27T08:00:00.024-07:00

Did you realize that Stampin' Up! has Kraft Gift Boxes for sale in our Holiday Mini Catalog. There are 4 boxes to a package and they are only $2.95 a package. Their approximate size is 3 1/2" x 3 1/2" x 2 1/2". The kraft box can be left plain, directly stamped on, or covered with cards stock or designer series paper (DSP) --- the choice is yours. It can be used year round for any occasion. They will be available only until January 3, 2012. So if you would like some, I would highly recommend ordering them soon. They are perfect for small gifts and goodies.

The box I decorated above was covered with DSP and Stitched Felt -Winter Wishes and 3/8" Quilted Satin Ribbon. This will be one of our projects for my class next month.

Stampin' Up! Products:
Kraft Gift Box (4), item #124106
Speciality Designer Series Paper - Holly Berry Bouquet, item #124004
Stitched Felt - Winter Wishes, item #124108
3/8" Quilted Satin Ribbon - Cherry Cobbler, item #124105
Mini Jingle Bells, item #124116

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

I Dig You Birthday Card Tutorial

2011-10-26T08:00:00.024-07:00

The first photo is my initial plan for my class this last Saturday. During the class I got the inspiration to use the brads on the joints and wheels of the digger machine. I'm really pleased with the results. Here's how it looks with the brads:

Stampin’ Up! Products Used:

Whisper White Card Stock, item #100730 …. 1 piece 5 ½” x 8 ½” & 2 pieces 2 ¾” x 2 ¾” & 1 scrap piece

Rich Razzleberry Card Stock, item #115316 … 1 piece 3 ¼” x 3 ¼” & 1 piece 4 ¼” x 2”

Island Indigo Classic Ink, item #122937

I Dig You! Stamp Set, item #12270 - Wood or #122722 – Clear

Delightful Dozen Stamp Set, item #122650 – Wood or item #122652

3/8” Ruffled Ribbon – Island Indigo, item #122974 … 1 piece 5”

Extra Large Oval Paper Punch, item #119859

Stampin’ Dimensionals, item #104430

SNAIL, item #104332

Silver Mini Brads, item #122941

Directions:

1. Score the Whisper White Card Stock piece (5 ½” x 8 ½”) at 4 ¼” This is your card base.

2. Wrap & secure the 5” ribbon piece over the Rich Razzleberry Card Stock piece that is 4 ¼” x 2”.

a. Using SNAIL Adhesive or Sticky Strip attach to bottom front of card base.

3. Stamp Happy Birthday on scrap of Whisper White Card Stock, then punch out with XL Oval Paper Punch.

a. Using dimensionals attach to card.

4. Adhere the 3 ¼” x 3 ¼” piece of Rich Razzleberry to the front upper part of the card base making sure to center it.

a. Stamp the image of the machine on the 2 ¾” x 2 ¾” pieces of Whisper White Card Stock.

i. Adhere one image to the Rich Razzleberry Card Stock 3 ¼” x 3 ¼” piece.

ii. Cut out the other piece and then layer If on the other image using dimensionals.

My Digital Studio Downloads - October 25, 2011

2011-10-25T08:12:00.000-07:00

The latest My Digital Studio downloads are now available from Stampin' Up!

Click HERE to view the latest downloads.

You may order from my Stampin' Up! website 24/7 by CLICKING HERE, then click on Shop Now or by contacting me directly. My e-mail link is at the top of the screen.

Mary Director
Stampin' Up! Senior Supervisor, Independent Demonstrator & Creative Coach
http://marydirector.stampinup.net
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)