Wednesday, 31 August 2011

Just Believe... it's a bookmark!

Today something a little different which I wanted to share specifically with those ladies that purchased the Just Believe stamp set from me in August.  It's a corner bookmark using one of the stamps from the Just Believe stamp set...


  • Cut a 10.2 x 10.2cm square of the A4 Crumbcake.
  • Measure and lightly mark the halfway point on 3 of the sides (ie 5.1cm).
  • Score between 2 of the points diagonally and repeat on the other side, then fold in each corner to create the triangular point.
  • Use the border punch along the straight bottom edge to decorate (*optional).
  • Cut a 7 x 7cm square of DSP and cut diagonally so that you have 2 triangles.  Stick one to the front and one to the back of the bookmark.
  • Cut a 2.5cm strip of Rich Razzleberry cardstock and stamp with versamark ink, then once dry stick underneath the triangle on the front of the bookmark.
  • Ink up the image with the Rich Razzleberry and Marina Mist marker pens and stamp onto the Whisper White cardstock.  Punch out with the circle punch (*circle can be drawn with a protractor and cut out by hand) and mount on a scalloped circle (*use scalloped scissors as an alternative or just cut round the circle leaving a 0.25cm strip) of Crumbcake cardstock.  Then stick to the bookmark using a dimensional.
  • Finish with jewels on the scallops (optional).
Materials:
Just Believe stamp set (120453);
Patterns DSP stack - brights (117155);
Marina Mist marker pen (119679);
Rich Razzleberry marker pen (120970);
A4 smooth cardstock - Crumbcake (121685);
A4 smooth cardstock – Whisper White (106549);
A4 smooth cardstock – Rich Razzleberry (119981);
Versamark ink (102283);
*Eyelet border punch (119853);
*3.5cm circle punch (119860);
*4.4cm scalloped circle punch (119854);
Stampin' dimensionals (104430);
Sticky strip or adhesive.

If you want to order the Just Believe stamp set from me I will provide you with the full instructions for the Just Believe cards and box set that I have been using in my recent demo's.  The full details for each of the cards can be found in my earlier posts (just go to the Just Believe lable option from the list to find them all) but I have saved the instructions for the box for those that order the stamp set from me ;).  So if you haven't got this set yet and want to place an order this month best to do it now as I will be off on my travels for 3 weeks from 9th September. 


Tuesday, 30 August 2011

Demonstrator get together

I attended my first demonstrator night out this evening and met some of the other demonstrators in the team.  Hopefully these events will become a regular thing as well as the team training, as it was really lovely to meet lots of people who love crafting as much as I do.

I was a bit apprehensive about the card swaps that we had to make beforehand for all those attending.  Swaps are samples that you make a batch of the same and then swap them with other people who are attending and event.  It's great because for every swap you give, you get one back and can share ideas and add to your stash of samples for future demonstrations. 

So, here is what I made for my first swap, using the Every Little Bit stamp set, combined with a sentiment from the Clearly for You stamp set (I've used the 'N' from the No.5 stamp to decorate the corner of the card, as I know not what else to do with it!).
The card is suitable for an anniversary, birthday or valentines perhaps.  I've used the Pumpkin Pie and Tangerine Tango DSP stack for the panels which I have then mounted on Crumbcake cardstock and embellished with a flower and then some of the leaves from the 2 Step Bird Punch.  The ink is Chocolate Chip.
In return I obtained lots of new ideas, which I will share with you in due course.

We have a team training session on Saturday which I need to make more swaps for, but have to wait until the retiring list is released on Thursday before making them as we have to use current catalogue items... it's going to be a bit tight!

Monday, 29 August 2011

Last chance for August offer

There are only 2 more days left for you to obtain the August offer...  
As if getting new Stampin’ Up! products wasn’t enough, when you place a £75 order you will get a free gift which includes a beautiful, exclusively-designed cosmetic bag, along with Rich Razzleberry 1-1/4" Striped Grosgrain Ribbon, and a 24-piece Clip Assortment.

Contact me now if you want to place an order before this offer ends on Wednesday night.

 

Saturday, 27 August 2011

Great day and 1st class

Well, I have had a fabulous weekend so far and it's only Saturday!  Having had 2 demo's today I am totally exhausted but have had lots of fun sharing my love of card making with friends/family and neighbours.

Thank you so much to everyone who came along to support me and find out what it's all about.  I think I have come to the conclusion that the simpler the Make and Take's are the better, although the ladies at this morning's demo we all naturals despite none of them ever having made a card before! 

So as I forgot to take any photo's of the demo, instead, here is the box set that I am planning for my first class on Sunday next week.  There are still a couple of spaces left if you want to sign up to make a mini pizza box and matching cards. 



Sunday 4th September - 11am: Mini Pizza Box with Cards (£5/£10)

This class has been inspired by my upline Cate as it was the first Stampin' Up! class that I ever attended, so I can personally vouch that this is ideal for beginners as well as more advanced card makers.

You will learn how to make and decorate a mini pizza box and at least 3 co-ordinating cards, all using the Just Believe stamp set.

All materials will be supplied. The price of this class is £5 but for £10 you can get a reel of Whisper White satin ribbon (RRP £6.75) included in the price - book by 31st August to obtain this offer.

The Just Believe stamp set includes 9 different stamps, including 4 sentiments and 2 border stamps.  This is such a great set to start with as there are endless ways to combine the images with the sentiments and borders. 

If you can't make this class but would like to order the stamp set I will be placing an order on Tuesday, so if you live close to me you can get free postage and I will also provide you with the full instructions for the box and cards as well. 

To keep up to date on upcoming offers and classes contact me with your email address and I will add you to the mailing list. 

For those of you that don't already know the retirement list will be released on the 1st September so you will have a few days to order these items before I go on holiday on the 8th.  Full details of the list will be posted here the same day, and I will email those on my mailing list too so sign up now so you don't miss it.



Monday, 22 August 2011

Demo day this Saturday - 2pm

If you have received/picked up an invitation thank you for taking the time to visit my site. 

You will find more details about me and the Stampin' Up products within the links contained on this site.

In summary, Stampin' Up! offers rubber stamps and paper crafting products through a network of independent demonstrators.  Having recently signed up I am running a demonstration at my home on Saturday 27th August at 2pm for you to come along and look at some samples and have a go at making something yourself. 

You can find all of the products in Stampin’ Up!’s full-colour Idea Book & Catalogue (RRP £5.95) by clicking on the link on the left hand side of this page, but why not stop by on Saturday at 2pm to look at the catalogues in person and find out a bit more about the current offers and ask questions.

Please do not think that you have to be creative to come along, and you are not obligated to buy anything.  Booking is essential so please email me or telephone me on 07968 951957 and I will provide you with full details of the location.

If you can't make it along then why not book to attend one of my classes or have a free workshop in your home. 

Alternatively, to receive details of upcoming offers contact me with your details or subscribe to my blog and I will keep you updated on the latest Stampin' Up! news.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Jade 

Sunday, 21 August 2011

Run 1st workshop, tick :)

Thank you to my 2 very good friends who attended my demo today - it is very much appreciated.  At one point I had 6 people saying they would attend but of course there are always those that say they may come along and then those that let you down and drop out :(.  The important thing is that I got to do a trial run of the demo and the make and take.

Sample table
The cupcakes seemed to go down well too... although I still have a lot leftover!

I gained a large card order and at least one confirmed attendee for my Christmas Card club starting in October and as the social aspect is more important to me than making product sales I am quite happy :).

So as promised here are the details of the card I did for the Make and Take which completes the Just Believe A6 card set with box:
·         Fold in half an A5 piece of Whisper White cardstock for the base card.
·         Cut a 5cm strip of DSP wide enough to go across the base card (10.5cm).
·         Tear a strip of Old Olive cardstock and stick this behind the DSP.
·         Ink the stamp with the Rich Razzleberry and Old Olive markers and stamp onto the card then use the Stamp-a-ma-jig to position the sentiment in the centre.

Materials:

Just Believe stamp set (120453);
Patterns DSP stack - brights (117155);
Old Olive marker pen (100079);
Rich Razzleberry marker pen (120970);
*Stamp-a-ma-jig (101049);
A4 smooth cardstock - Crumbcake (121685);
A4 smooth cardstock – Whisper White (106549);
Versamark ink (102283);
Stampin' dimensionals (104430);
Whisper White satin ribbon (114616)
Sticky strip or adhesive.

If you would like to order the Just Believe stamp set during August and can collect it from me there will be no postage charge and I will provide you with a worksheet giving full details of how to make the box as well as the card set featured in my earlier posts (see here for details).

Thursday, 18 August 2011

Classes and my first workshop

Mini pizza box with cards -
Just Believe stamp set
I've set up a couple of dates for classes, details of which can be found here. If you cannot make the dates please contact me as I may be able to offer an alternative if there is enough interest.

I'm running my first workshop this weekend so will be posting the details of the final card that completes the Just Believe box set that I am doing for the Make and Take.  Wish me luck - more so because I am also attempting to make some cakes for those attending :).

I will be placing an order at the end of the month so if you are local to me and want to save on postage and need a few bits please email me with your order.



Saturday, 13 August 2011

Complete card set

All the cards I have created for this box set use the Just Believe stamp set and each card includes at least 2 different techniques. 

Check out my previous posts for how full details for 3 of these cards.  I'm not going to post the details for the last card or the box until after my first workshop as I am hoping to use the card for the Make and Take and the box is a great way to present them all together.

If you want to attend my free workshop later this month please contact me and I will email you with dates once these are confirmed.

Full details of how to make the remaining card and box will be posted in due course.

The Just Believe stamp set is a great one to start with as it includes 3 image stamps, 4 different sentiments 2 different border stamps; all of which can be inked using a variety of techniques in order to produce numerous cards and gifts.  You will have to check back soon for some of my gift ideas for this set.

Just Believe stamp set - Idea Book & Catalogue (page 57)


You will find the Just Believe stamp set on page 57 of the current Ideas Book and Catalogue priced at £32.95 for the wood mounted set (116948) or just £25.95 for the clear stamp set (120453).

If you would like to order the Just Believe set during August and can collect it from me there will be no postage charge and I will provide you will a work sheet giving full details on how to make the complete set of cards and box featured here.  Don't forget that you will also need card stock, ink, designer papers and other accessories as detailed in my 3 previous posts, unless of course you decide to come up with your own ideas for this stamp set :).

Friday, 12 August 2011

Note card

The sentiment that comes with the Just believe stamp set that I have used in this card fits perfectly inside a 1 and 1/4 inch circle punch and also the border (without the flowers coloured in).  As I don't have the punch I've just cut a circle out for this before stamping the sentiment in Rich Razzleberry and then edging it with Old Olive ink so it stands out when raised with dimensionals.

I've coloured the background stamp with the markers - which takes a while as there is a lot of detail in the image... to ensure the ink isn't dried out before making the stamp you need to 'huff' on the stamp - trust me it works, this is a top stamping tip which works really well with the Stampin' Up! marker pens, although I have tried it in the past with other markers which not such a good effect.

Materials:
Just Believe stamp set (120453);
Patterns DSP stack - brights (117155);
Old Olive marker pen (100079);
Rich Razzleberry marker pen (120970);
Stamp-a-ma-jig (101049);
A4 cardstock - Whisper White (106649);
Old Olive stamp pad (102277) - for inking the edge of the circle with sentiment.

Thursday, 11 August 2011

Card samples

I am working on a set of cards using the Rich Razzleberry and Old Olive colours and the Just Believe stamp set. I'm trying to use a couple of different techniques for each of the cards, with a box to pu them all in.
I've used an A5 piece of the Crumbcake card for the base.  The DSP is cut to 14 x 8.5cm and the white card to 12 x 6.5cm.  I've rounded the corners of each panel with my scissors before stamping the image and sentiment using the Rich Razzleberry ink pad.  Tying the ribbon around the bottom of the stamped was a bit fiddly, but knots are in my view much easier than bows.

The image was then stuck to the DSP panel and I have added a few jewels to the flower centres.

 
Materials:
Just Believe stamp set (120453);
Patterns DSP stack - brights (117155);
Rich Razzleberry ink pad (115658);
Stamp-a-ma-jig (101049);
A4 smooth cardstock - Crumbcake (121685);
Rich Razzleberry satin ribbon (119752);
Basic rhinestones (119246);

Wednesday, 10 August 2011

Thank you

So here is one of the thank you cards that I made yesterday with the Just Believe stamp set.

I think this might make a good make and take for a workshop as it uses a couple of techniques but is quite simple to create.

I started with cutting the A4 Crumbcake cardstock in half and then folded in half one of the A5 pieces for the base card.  I think this colour card is great as it's a bit different to using white card which I was used to before being introduced to the Stampin' Up! colour range and their cardstock and DSP's works so well with it.

At the base of the card I stamped the image 4 times using the Versamark inkpad which I think is a really good way to fill clear space, although I could have quite easily left it blank.

I cut a piece of the DSP stack to 5 x 6cm ensuring that the wording way the right way round.  The border stamp has been coloured with a Rich Razzleberry marker and then the flowers are also the same colour, with the stems/leaves coloured with a Old Olive marker.  Using the markers means you can get the detailed image in 2 colours unlike when using a stamp pad and this technique is ideal for this type of stamp.  The sentiment is also coloured with the Old Olive marker, although I did this in 2 stages and used my Stamp-a-ma-jig to line up the words.

Finally I cut out the stamped image and mounted it with dimensionals.

Materials:
Just Believe stamp set (120453);
Patterns DSP stack - brights (117155);
Old Olive marker pen (100079);
Rich Razzleberry marker pen (120970);
Stamp-a-ma-jig (101049);
A4 smooth cardstock - Crumbcake (121685);
Versamark ink (102283);
Stampin' dimensionals (104430).



Tuesday, 9 August 2011

Craft room


I will have to tidy up properly soon as the packaging from my starter kit delivery is starting to block the doorway to the craft room... however us crafters are all the same. Check out this blog that I found to see lots of other workspaces.
Despite the mess, I'm trying to stay organised with my new kit, so that I can make the samples systematically and get in practice for when I'm demonstrating, but it's very hard as there is so much I want to try out ;)!

However, I've managed to keep my workspace very clear indeed (!), although I'm sure it won't last long.
I cracked open another stamp set tonight... Just Believe, which is definitely my favourite of the stamps that I chose for my starter kit.  There are 4 sentiments which makes the card options endless.

With it, I started on a couple of thank you cards which you can see in the photo, although I'll have to finish them off tomorrow - so why not sign up to follow my blog or check back for full details of each card over the next couple of days.

Monday, 8 August 2011

New arrivals

I came home today to a lovely big brown box ... it's like my birthday has come early (by 1 day!)... my starter kit had arrived! 

I'm still working on sorting out my blog so please bare with me and wish me luck with my first proper live (!) post.  I'm so excited that I can now get creating some samples with my new stash. 

So my very first card is for a new baby - my friend gave birth on Friday; and baby Jamie is almost sharing the same birthday as me!

There are so many tutorials on the web for making this sort of card.  However they all seem to use the circle and scalloped circle punches which I don't yet own... so I improvised quite a bit.

The card is 11 x 4 1/4 and I have cut about 1 inch inwards approximately 1 1/4 inches down (arm sleeves).

I found that the bottom of my squeezy glue is the right size to create a 'make do' circle (until I add the punch to my gear).  So I made a template and then cut the leg and neck holes with it (using one leg to cut the other so that they were identical).

I then drew around the leg and neck holes onto the DSP and carefully cut it about 1/4 inch thick and did the same with the sleeve strips.

The little bear has been stamped with StazOn ink and then coloured with chocolate chip and marina mist ink from the stamp pads using the blender pen.  I had to cheat with the sentiment as this is not a Stampin' Up! product, but I did use my Stamp-a-ma-jig :).

I'm not sure I will list out all the products for every post, but it's easy enough when most of it comes from the starter set...

Materials:
Every Little Bit stamp set (120558);
Patterns DSP stack - brights (117155);
Chocolate Chip classic stamp pad (100908);
Marina Mist classic stamp pad (119669);
StazOn jet black ink pad (101406);
Blender pens (102845);
Stamp-a-ma-jig (101049);

I couldn't resist making a girl card too...

The only difference other than the choice of DSP is that I used the Rich Razzleberry classic stamp pad (120970) to colour the bib and sentiment (not Stampin' Up!).

Challenges I have entered this card into:

Whoopsi Daisy - 'anything but square'
Crazy for Challenges - 'shape it up'


Friday, 5 August 2011

Signing up

There's quite a lot of paperwork to read through before signing up to become a demonstrator. Fortunately my upline, Cate, has been with Stampin' Up! for 3 years, so she had plenty of guidance to share.

The most important part of the paperwork is choosing what to include in the starter kit. I love the fact you can customise the kit with the stamp sets and colours that you want.

However, it's hard to choose which sets to have, but in the end I went with a mixture of those that I thought would allow me to produce a good variety of samples and one that I am already familiar with - the stamp set that I used when I attended my very first class with Cate: Just Believe.

Once I had submitted all the paperwork to the support team it didn't take long before a bunch of emails and information was sent through to me. There was so much to take in, so I made myself familiar with the website resources first... then went about setting up my blog, and now I'm just itching to get my hands on the products so that I can start making things.