Thursday, March 28, 2024

Where Do You Get Your Inspiration? Using Bee My Valentine

Today I'm excited to share with you a delightful card creation featuring the adorable Bee My Valentine stamp set and the versatile Bee Builder Punch. Are you ready to dive into the world of creativity with me? Let's buzz right in!

First and foremost, let's give credit where credit is due. I must extend a heartfelt thank you to the concept artists at Stampin' Up! for their endless inspiration. Sometimes, the best ideas come from collaborating and sharing, and I couldn't resist CASEing (Copy And Share Everything) this particular card design. It's a testament to the creative community we call home.

Now, let's talk about the card itself. Picture this: a vibrant burst of colors, a sprinkle of flowers, and of course, our beloved bees buzzing around spreading love. That's the essence of this card. By thinking outside the box, we can transform a simple stamp set into a work of art.

To start off, after putting the base of the card together and punching out five of the "bee bodies" from the Bee Builder Punch, I stamped the charming stem and flower images onto punched pieces using the Bee My Valentine stamp set. So we're getting flowers - almost like a crafty garden! Lots and lots of flowers. The card is adorned with an array of colorful blooms, bringing a sense of whimsy and joy to the design.

There's something special about handmade cards—they have the power to convey love and affection in a way that words sometimes can't.

Measurements for the card (in inches)
Card Base - Basic White - 8-1/2 x 5-1/2, scored at 4-1/4
Lemon Lime Twist/Pool Party - 5 x 3-3/4
Basic White - 4-7/8 x 3-5/8
Scraps for punching

The Adhesive-Backed Hearts and Flowers embellishments were the perfect finishing touch, adding a hint of sparkle and shine.

And that's the beauty of crafting—it's not just about the final product, but also about the journey of creativity and self-expression. Whether you're an experienced crafter or just starting out, there's always room to explore, experiment, and have fun.

So, to all my fellow crafters out there, I encourage you to keep creating, keep sharing, and keep spreading love—one handmade card at a time.

Here is the video for step-by-step instructions of how to make this card on my YouTube channel - please be sure to give the video a thumbs up and subscribe to the channel:

And who knows? Maybe your next creation will inspire someone else to do the same.

Until next time, happy crafting!



Wednesday, March 27, 2024

Mastering the Art of Ink Layering: A Stamp-tastic Adventure!

Hey there, fellow crafters and stamp enthusiasts! Today, we're diving into the magical world of ink layering, where mistakes are merely happy accidents waiting to be transformed into masterpieces!

It's important to play with your stamps and papers. These are like the toys you had when you were a kid - so have some fun and play around!

First things first, let's talk about the importance of choosing the right combination of inks. It's like assembling the Avengers – you need a team that works together seamlessly (sorry, Hulk, maybe next time). Experiment with different colors and textures until you find the perfect squad to bring your vision to life.

And be sure to embrace the happy accidents! So what if your stamp slipped a little, or you accidentally smudged some ink? That slightly off-center stamp? It's all okay. These are hand-made creations. There're going to be imperfections!!

Here are the measurements for this card (in inches):

The card base - basic white - 8-1/2 x 5-1/2, scored at 4-1/4

That's it!! Not too much to measure for this Clean and Simple Card.

And let's not forget the most crucial ingredient in this recipe for success – laughter! Crafting should be fun, not stress-inducing. So, laugh at your mistakes, embrace your quirks, and remember that imperfection is what makes your creations uniquely yours.

Here is the video from my YouTube channel showing you step-by-step how to create this card - and while you're there, please give the video a thumbs up and subscribe to the channel:

And here are all the supplies used for making this card:


So there you have it, my fellow ink aficionados – a crash course in the art of ink layering, served with a side of humor and a sprinkle of creativity.
Now go forth, armed with your stamps and inks, and create something magnificent! Happy stamping, my friends!


Crafting Fun: Fun Fold Card with the Playing in the Rain Stamp Set

Hey there, fellow crafters! Are you ready to sprinkle some joy and creativity into your day? Well, buckle up because today, we're diving headfirst into the whimsical world of fun fold cards using the oh-so-adorable Playing in the Rain stamp set!

We've got a charming bunny hopping through rain puddles, with the sweet sentiment "Rainy days are better with you" warming hearts everywhere. Who could resist such a delightful scene? Not us, that's for sure!

Now, let's get down to business, shall we? Grab your crafting gear and let's embark on this magical journey together.

Measurements (in inches)

Card base: Basic black 8-1/2 x 5-1/2, scored at 4-1/4

DSP - 4 x 5-1/4

Small card base is 3 x 8-1/2, scored at 4-1/8

inside of small card - 4 x 2-7/8 - DSP (if desired) 1/2 x 4

outside sentiment piece - 2-3/4 x 3-7/8

What sets this card apart is that it's a fun fold. When you cut the front on the diagonal and then insert the small card inside, this is a very unique card! We're going for a fun and funky fold that'll have your recipients grinning from ear to ear. Get ready to unleash your inner paper crafting master!

I also created this card using the Simply Zinnia and Zinnia Suite Collection that is an online exclusive



Once your card base is prepped and folded to perfection, it's time to add whatever sentiment and fun to the front of the card you like! This really brings this fun fold card to life! If you're using animals as a focal point, grab your favorite ink pad and start stamping away. Feel free to get creative with your color choices—after all, who says your animals can't be pink or purple?

No card is complete without a sprinkle of pizzazz! Whether it's a dash of glitter, a pop of color, or some cute embellishments, let your creativity run wild. Remember, there's no such thing as too much sparkle!
Here, the fun fold was used with the Latte Love Suite Collection, which is also an online exclusive from Stampin' Up!
And just like that, your masterpiece is complete! Take a moment to admire your handiwork—it's a true work of art! Now, all that's left to do is spread the joy by sending your creation off into the world. Trust me, it'll brighten someone's day in ways you can't even imagine.
So, there you have it, folks—a fun and fabulous DIY fun fold card brought to life with the Playing in the Rain stamp set. Who knew a little bunny and some raindrops could bring so much joy? Happy crafting, and may your days be filled with laughter and creativity!

Here is the video from my YouTube channel where there are step-by-step instructions for making this fun fold for you - while you're there, please give the video a thumbs up and subscribe to the channel:

Here are the supplies used in making the Playing in the Rain fun fold card:

Keep shining,


Tuesday, March 19, 2024

Brewing Creativity: Crafting with Latte Love Stamp Set and Reverse Stamping Technique

Ready to spice up your crafting routine with a shot of creativity? Today, we're headed into the world of cardmaking with the charming Latte Love stamp set. Let's explore reverse stamping, all while crafting a card that's as cozy as your favorite coffee shop corner.

Picture this: A Little Latte Designer Series Paper paired with Lost Lagoon and Early Espresso cardstocks, creating the perfect backdrop for our caffeinated creations. I am sharing tips and tricks for mastering the reverse stamping technique—a process that's as fun as it is rewarding.

So grab your stamps, ink pads, and sense of adventure, because we're about to embark on a crafting escapade like no other!

Measurements for the card (in inches):

Base - Lost Lagoon - 8-1/2 x 5-1/2, scored at 4-1/4

Basic white (inside and outside - so cut 2) 3-3/4 x 5

Early Espresso (inside and outside - so cute 2) 3-7/8 x 5-1/8

Early Espresso - 3-3/4 x 1/4

DSP - 3-3/4 x 1

Here is the video on my YouTube channel that gives you step-by-step instructions for making this card and doing the reverse stamping technique. Please give the video a thumbs up and subscribe to the channel while you're there!

So whether you're a seasoned crafter looking to spice up your technique repertoire or a newbie eager to dip your toes into the world of cardmaking, this blog post is for you. Get ready to unleash your inner artist and brew up some crafty magic with me!



Supplies used for this card:


Stay tuned for more crafting adventures, and until next time, keep sipping and stamping! Cheers, friends!



Wednesday, March 13, 2024

Crafting Kindness: A Filled With Fun Colorful Stamping Adventure

 Welcome back to a world of paper crafts. Today, we're diving into a project that's as colorful as it is beautiful. So, grab your Kindest Expressions stamp set, the Filled With Fun stamp set, and those amazing Stampin' Blends Alcohol Markers. It's time to turn plain cardstock into a masterpiece filled with laughter and love.

The star of the show today is the Kindest Expressions stamp set because, let's be real, who can resist spreading kindness with a smile? The sentiment we're using is like a warm hug wrapped in a one-line message. Placing it right in the middle of the Basic White cardstock, we're making sure that kindness takes center stage, just like it should!

Now, onto the Filled With Fun stamp set and the real beauty – flowers that are ready for their moment in the spotlight! This stamp set is an online exclusive with Stampin' Up!  That's okay with me since most of my shopping is online these days anyway!!

It's time to unleash the power of Stampin' Blends Alcohol Markers. Think of them as the superheroes in the crafting world. We give these flowers a colorful makeover, because let's face it, who doesn't love a good floral fashion statement?

The colors used on this card are Azure Afternoon, Poppy Parade, Pool Party, Lemon Lime Twist, Lemon Lolly, Daffodil Delight, and Berry Burst
Tip for you:  the Blends come in pairs (a lighter and darker pen), and I keep mine together by using a hair elastic.  You can purchase these in a package of 100 when you grocery shop or at the drugstore.  Always store Alcohol Markers laying flat.  The markers keep their color longer that way.

 Enter the Poppy Parade cardstock, an unsung hero in the framing department. It's the red carpet for our crafting celebrities, turning our card into a VIP masterpiece. This Basic White cardstock is about to shine like never before, surrounded by the vibrant Poppy Parade glory!

  And there you have it! Our crafting adventure has resulted in a card that's not just a piece of paper; it's a burst of kindness and floral fabulousness. This card is ready to be sent out into the world, armed with the power to spread laughter and joy like confetti at a crafting party.

  I hope this project brought a smile to your face. Remember, crafting is not just about the end result; it's about the journey, the laughs, and the joy it brings. So, until the next crafting escapade, keep those scissors sharp, your stamps ready, and craft with a touch of humor!

Here is the video on my YouTube channel showing step-by-step how to make this card.  While you're there, be sure to give the video a thumbs up and subscribe to the channel.  Your support means so much to me.

Here are the measurements (in inches):

Card Base - Basic White - 8-1/2 x 5-1/2, scored at 4-1/4

Basic White - 3-3/4 x 5

Poppy Parade - 3-7/8 x 5-1/8

  And a list of the supplies used for this colorful card:


Happy crafting, happy laughing, and stay fabulously creative!




Tuesday, March 12, 2024

Stamp-Tastic Adventure Assembling the Kindest Expressions Stamp Set

 Join me as I open a brand new-to-me stamp set and put it together.  This stamp set is a delightful ensemble of stamps promising to add charm and cheer to my latest crafting endeavors.

I don't want to assume that everyone understands the ins and outs of assembling the cling rubber stamps, so I decided to make a video showcasing exactly how easy it is to assemble a set of stamps.

Here is one of the cards I created with the Kindest Expressions stamp set after I assembled it

Since the Kindest Expressions stamp set is a set of four sentiment only stamps, I'm most likely going to pair it with another stamp set any time I use it.  For this card, I paired the sentiment with the Playing in the Rain stamp set.

Here is the video from my YouTube channel about assembling the stamp set below.  While you're there, please be sure to give the video a thumbs up and subscribe to my channel.  I appreciate your support so much.

I also paired this fabulous stamp set with the online exclusive stamp set Filled With Fun.

The possibilities are endless. From heartfelt greeting cards to whimsical scrapbook pages, these stamps are poised to spread joy and kindness with every press.

Crafting brings so much joy – the thrill of creation, the satisfaction of a job well done, and the camaraderie shared among fellow crafters. So, here's to many more stamping escapades and the endless creativity that awaits!


 Until next time, happy crafting, my friends!


Friday, March 8, 2024

Tips and Tricks for Rubber and Photopolymer Stamps with Acrylic Blocks

Today is about some additional tips and tricks specifically focused on mounting rubber cling and photopolymer stamps onto acrylic blocks. This process can sometimes be a bit confusing if it's been a while since you've stamped or you're new to the craft, but with the right techniques, you'll be stamping with ease in no time.

Here is a video from my YouTube channel about stamps and acrylic blocks. While you're there, please be sure to give the video a thumbs up and subscribe to the channel. I appreciate your support.

Cleanliness is Key:
  1. Blocks: For cleaning the blocks, use rubbing alcohol. You can use Prep Pads or you can use the liquid rubbing alcohol that comes in a bottle along with a cotton ball or pad. There is no need to soak the blocks, simply use the pad or cotton ball with a bit of rubbing alcohol and wipe the blocks clean.

  2. Stamps: When cleaning the stamps after use, you can use a shammy - simply wipe the stamp off with the shammy (the purplish item below), or you can use a stamp cleaner pad such as a Stampin' Scrubber (the black item below).

  3. A quick wipe with a wet cloth or using stamp cleaner can do wonders. Or simply run the stamp under water if you're using a water-based ink. The ink will wash right off.

    Test Stamp:
  1. If you're using a red rubber stamp, you cannot see through it like you can the photopolymer, so before committing to your project, do a test stamp on scrap paper.

  2. This allows you to check the positioning and the evenness of the ink coverage. Adjust as needed before stamping on your final project.

  3. Use the Right Size Block:
    Match the size of the acrylic block to the size of the stamp. This ensures proper support for the stamp and allows for precise placement on your project. A too-small block may lead to uneven pressure and a less-than-perfect impression. A too-large block may lead to excess ink landing on your project in an area that wasn't intended.


  4. Consider a mat:
    If you're using a photopolymer stamp, you do not have the cushioning built in to the stamp as you do with the red rubber stamp. For best results, consider stamping on a mat of some sort to help you have cushion and stamp a better image. These tools provide stability and consistency, ensuring that each impression is as good as the last.

  1. Storage Solutions:
    When not in use, store your stamps on their original boxes or backing. This helps maintain the shape and stickiness of the stamps, ensuring they are ready for your next crafting adventure.

Remember, the key to successful stamping lies in practice and finding what works best for you. Don't be afraid to experiment and enjoy the creative journey.

Happy Stamping!