Monochromatic sympathy

We have been gone for a few days, and now I need to do a lot of catching up.  First of all I need sympathy cards for our son-in-law's family - his dad passed away.  I prefer fairly simple cards, and this sketch and theme were what I needed.
Sketch:  http://sketchsaturday.blogspot.com/
Monochromatic:  http://lawnscaping.blogspot.com/
Any:  http://asimplefive.blogspot.com/search/label/Inspire%20Me%20Fridays
Any:  http://www.simonsaysstampblog.com/wednesdaychallenge/

Stylin' Chicks

These cute chicks are from a High Hopes stamp.  I used a lot of orange and purple (The bg solid is a dark purple).  Added ribbon and rhinestones.  The DP is by Daisy D.
Sketch:  http://ynschallenges.blogspot.ca/
Hats: 
Fall colors:  http://www.craftyourpassionchallenges.blogspot.com/
Purple and orange:  http://highhopesstamps.blogspot.com/
Ribbon and bow:  http://wagsnwhiskersrubberstamps.blogspot.com/

Carol's birthday

This is DP (Daisy D, I think) that I have been hoarding - waiting for that special occasion!  My sister is younger than I and would not recall the family farm home with no indoor plumbing - in use when I was young.  She will remember the dozens (probably hundreds) of chickens she raised, butchered and froze - though that was many years ago as well.
The image is from Beccy's Place.  She used it for a sample - it has lovely highlights that I was not able to duplicate - I tried chalk.  The bird and branches are Cheery Lynn dies from Joan's Gardens.
Sketch:  thekraftjournal.blogspot.com/
Trees:  http://craft-roomchallenge.blogspot.com/
Any, with a Beccy's image:  :http://beccysplace.blogspot.com.au/2013/09/september-challenge.html 
Vintage:  http://frillyandfunkie.blogspot.com/
Fall colors, trees, bird, leaves, her product: http://www.atjoansgardens.com/2013/09/this-weeks-challenge-big-prize.html

Sarah's Wedding

We have a wedding in the family in a few days.  Traditionally, I try to incorporate aspects of the invitation as I make the card.  This was more challenging, as Sarah is a bit untraditional!  The lace, brown ribbon, initials, and textured look of the bg as well as the colors are similar to the invitation.  I am not sure how it looks on your screen - mine does not really show the dark cream look of the bk.  I used the LifeStyle weaving EF for that.  Ironically, the G is for both last names!  The sentiment is Great Impressions.    The image came from a Wish RAK member so I do not know the source.  I selected it because she was such an accomplished horsewoman in her teens.  The card is 5x7.
Wedding:  http://acreativeneed.wordpress.com/
http://divasbydesignchallenge.blogspot.com/
New beginnings:  http://delightfulsketches.blogspot.com/
Embossing:  http://www.simonsaysstampblog.com/wednesdaychallenge/
Starting with "G":  http://marksfinestpapers.blogspot.com/

Christmas - in fall colors

I am sure many of you have experienced this - there is a stamp set, or some dp, or other product - it looks great!  Then, when actually using it - you find it is very difficult to work with.  That is the case for me, with this DP stack.  It is called "Faith" by the Paper Studio.  It is not really Christmas paper, but I did purchase it for that purpose - as well as other.  So far, I have not found just the right deep burgundy to use for mats - but here, the light color does work. 
Enough of that.  Here re the details:  image - an unnamed cube.  The bird and bits of branches are Cheery Lynn dies, and the circles are from Spellbinders - all done on the Cuttlebug.
Sketch:  http://alotarubberstamps.blogspot.com/
Christmas is coming:  http://www.ourdailybreaddesignsblog.blogspot.com/search/label/Shining%20the%20Light%20Challenge
First row of tic tac toe (pattern paper, dies and punches, autumn colors):  http://pileitonchallenge.blogspot.com/
Anything:  http://ttcrd.blogspot.com/
Fall colors, leaves, trees, bird, Cheery Lynn dies from the shop:  http://www.atjoansgardens.com/2013/09/this-weeks-challenge-big-prize.html
Back to nature - using Cuttlebug:  http://cuttlebugmania.blogspot.co.uk/

All white texture

There are so many beautiful white on white cards - a format I need to practice more.
Supplies:  Cuttlibug, Sizzix embossing folders, Spellbinders circle, oval and rectangles; sheer ribbon; tear drop pearl, Cheery Lynn "Little things with Wings" butterfly, computer generated sentiment; glitter
Sketch:  http://seemsalittlesketchy.blogspot.com/
 Wedding: http://dianamlarson.blogspot.com/
All white: http://crazy4challenges.blogspot.com/
Texture:  http://cheerylynndesigns.blogspot.com/
Embossing: http://www.simonsaysstampblog.com/wednesdaychallenge/

Summer Chickens

 


These chickens are so cute!  It seems to me they are enjoying the end of summer - dressed to the nines as well!  I used some scraps of dp, a tiny punch, vanilla half pearls, and Prismas.
Sketch:  http://designed2delight.com/blog/blogposts/
Oh My Chickens:  http://artimpressionsstamps.blogspot.com/2013/09/challenge-118-oh-my-chickens-bird_11.html
WIngs:  http://www.craftybloggersnetwork.blogspot.com/
End of summer:  http://craftybootschallenges.blogspot.com/
Any:  http://www.ladyanneschallenges.com/stamp-challenge.html

Watering flowers

My week has not gone as planned - a few days ago the computer froze on me - would not thaw out, so that meant a trip to repairs!  They told me it had a couple of small infections - guess that is a step down from a virus LOL!
At any rate, here is one of the cards I worked on during that time.  The image is from my printed stash of digis - now I cannot locate it in my file so I do not have the artist's name.  Does anyone recognize it?  She is colored with some Prismas but also with shiny metallic pens - especially the boors, flowers and watering can.
Sketch:  http://sundaysketchandstamp.blogspot.com/
Spots and Stripes:  http://oldiebutagoodiechallenge.blogspot.com/
Birthday:  http://disdigidesignschallenge.blogspot.com/
Gloss:  http://www.craftyourpassionchallenges.blogspot.com/
From your garden:  http://www.flonzcraft.com/vsc/

Red and Black

This is a great digi from Beccy's Place.  I combined it with unknown red and black and white.  Added some ribbon. a die cut button and cord.
Sketch:  http://www.sweetsketchwednesday.blogspot.com/
Ribbon:  http://justinspirationalchallenges.blogspot.co.uk/
Trees:  http://craft-roomchallenge.blogspot.com/
Red and black:  http://totallypapercrafts.blogspot.com/
Any:  http://beccysplace.blogspot.com.au/2013/09/september-challenge.html

Recount

I have a lot of friends who would relate to this one! 
Image, sentiment - Bugaboo; Color - Prismas; Button die, Twine, gems- Pizzazz Aplenty; Branch - Cheery Lynn; unknown DP.  I die cut the button then dry embossed for more texture.
Sketch:  http://ynschallenges.blogspot.ca/
Sentiment:  http://audsentimentschallengeblog.blogspot.com/
Humorous masculine:  http://crafterscafeblogchallenge.blogspot.com/
No squares:  http://www.thehousethatstampsbuilt.com/page/2/
Any:  http://www.lovesrubberstampschallenges.com/
Any:   http://bearlymine-challenges.blogspot.com/
 

Recess - back to school at the end of summer

U

I am pretty limited in my "school" images but this gal really looks like she is dressed for her classes. School starts so early in many places - summer and school kind of blend.   The Basic Grey "Hopscotch" DP reminds me of recess - I played a lot of hopscotch - over 65 years ago.  Does anyone still play it?  One of my "all star" items is the Cuttlebug - used here for the You folder.  Coloring image (A Day for Daisies digi) with gel pens and Prismas; ribbon, button, twin, flowers, gems added. 
Sketch:  http://tuesdaymorningsketches.blogspot.com/
Bingo (button, flower, ribbon):  http://bunnyzoescrafts.blogspot.co.uk/2013/08/august-challenge-bingo.html
Use yellow:  http://kaboodledoodles.blogspot.com/
School:  http://loriboyd2.blogspot.com/
              http://craftycreationschallenges.blogspot.com/
 End of Summer fun:  http://craftybootschallenges.blogspot.com/
For the kids:  http://pollycraftchallengeblog.blogspot.co.uk/
Any:  http://basicgreychallenges.blogspot.com/

Encouraging words

Here is another of the cards I am making for a gift.  The verse is from Verve.
Other supplies:  DP - Paper Pizazz, birds - Cheery Lynn, heart/flower - SandyLion, dies - Spellbinders; ribbon.
Sketch:  http://sweetstopsketches.blogspot.com/
Hearts:  http://cheerylynndesigns.blogspot.com/search/label/challenge
Encouragement:  http://www.wordartwednesday.blogspot.com/
Tender thoughts:  http://eurekastamps.blogspot.com/
Any:  http://www.hidinginmycraftroom.com/
Any:  http://artisticinspirationschallenges.blogspot.co.uk/
Lots of layers (SDC115) :  http://stampotiquedesignerschallenge.blogspot.com/

Cozy trees and snowflakes

I have not thanked the sponsors of challenges for a while - I have a special thank you to those who are providing Christmas challenges - I do need to get a better start!
Supplies:  Studio G image, SU sentiment, Basic Grey DP, Cuttlebug Snowflake EF, Cheery Lynn pine branches (from Joan's Gardens store); gold gel pen, edging scissors.
Sketch:  http://jwscrapshack.blogspot.ca/
Christmas, with snowflakes:  http://createdwithlovechallenges.blogspot.com/
Snowflakes:  http://craftycardmakers.blogspot.com/
Christmas:  http://www.creativecreationschallenges.blogspot.co.uk/
Christmas, with cozy colors (To me, ivory is warmer than white - combined with burgundy);  Christmas dp; snowflakes, trees, die from her store):  http://www.atjoansgardens.com/2013/09/this-weeks-challenge.html

Black & White again

:

Once again - black and white!  I like this image as I feel it can be used for a card for my stash and be either masculine or feminine - what do you think?  I used scraps for the DP, a Beccy's Place image, and new ribbon by Hot off the Press - too heavy for a bow but great for this layout.  The sentiment is by Rubber Cafe.
Sketch:  http://sketchsaturday.blogspot.com/
Any:  http://beccysplace.blogspot.com/
Spots and stripes:  http://sweetstampinchallengeblog.blogspot.com/
Any:  http://papertakeweekly.blogspot.com/

Nostalgic Black & White

This freebie image is from A Day for Daisies.  I selected a black and white setting for it, with a bit of color on the image.  Trends:  an old trend - Swiss Dots (Cuttlebug embossing folder) - I jumped on that trend early and have not looked back!  A new trend - Shape 'n Tape - this by Lifestyle crafts.  I recently got several sheets - I have not used it until today - I am sure I will use it a lot for strips like these - time will tell if I will make good use of the supply I acquired.  I also plan to use it for some delicate die cuts that are hard to glue.  I used pieces for the bg layers, and chalk pencils to color - with a bit of glitter pen for the leaves.
EDIT:  IRL her hat is grey and her face is flesh colored  - same as the hands- sorry this looks so bad on the screen!
Sketch:  http://www.jwscrapshack.blogspot.com/2013/08/ffc-15-its-sketch-time.html
Ruffles:  http://adayfordaisies.blogspot.com/search/label/challenges
Trends:  http://useittuesday.blogspot.com/
Any:  http://craftycalendarchallenge.blogspot.com/
Any:  http://www.hidinginmycraftroom.com/

Fall Scene

I knew I wanted to use this embossing folder for the challenge at Joan's Gardens - it just took me all week to figure out how to include all the elements.  I think I did it!
Embossing folder - Sizzix;  orange, green, brown chalk; butterfly by Cheery Lynn (sold at Joan's store); green and white checked ribbon.  The embossed layer is matted on a lighter card base which does not really show.
Fall, butterfly, green, brown, white, checks:  http://www.atjoansgardens.com/2013/08/this-weeks-challenge_29.html
Chalk: http://chalknstock.blogspot.com/
 Border (green ribbon):  http://blog.docerelashop.com/
Texture:  http://www.totallygorjuss.blogspot.com/
Nature - using Emb folder and butterfly die, on Cuttlebug:  http://cuttlebugmania.blogspot.co.uk/

Piano Teacher?

This is an Art Impressions image - I am sure she is a piano teacher - for the Sassy Studio Labor Day challenge.  She loves her talent!  The bg is a bit of the HB folder and some Paper Studio flowers.  I added glitter, lace and a Rain Drop.
Sketch:  http://2sisterschallengeblog.blogspot.com/
Work/profession:  http://www.sassystudiodesigns.blogspot.com/2013_08_01_archive.html
Any:  http://craftycalendarchallenge.blogspot.com/
          http://www.lovesrubberstampschallenges.com/
People:  http://artimpressionsstamps.blogspot.com/2013/08/aipeoplebloghop.html

Teacher Thanks

CAS is always a stretch for me, but I try!  This has another feature I do not do well.  I wanted to use the apples from a piece of DP -  I did cut them and "hung" the apples on a twine branch.  There is a tiny bird resting on the branch - possibly waiting for a chance to take a bite of the apple.  (I just got a few of these birds in the mail today, from a friend at Wish RAK, on Splitcoaststampers.  Thank you, Jen.)  The tag and sentiment are Just Rite Fancy Tags, and are popped up on pop dots.  The bg is embossed with a Sizzix Tim Holtz EF - a tree trunk.  This would be a thank you for a teacher.
Sketch:  http://justritestampers.typepad.com/justrite-inspiration/justrite-friday-challenge/
With wings:  http://cutecardthursday.blogspot.com/
Kraft, with text:  http://www.cas-ualfridays.blogspot.com/
Ribbon (twine) and school:  http://craftyribbonschallenge.blogspot.com/
School:
CAS:  http://thekraftjournal.blogspot.com/2013/09/challenge-136-clean-and-simple.html
Back to school:  http://crafts4eternity.blogspot.co.uk/

More Scripture

I will be back in a moment to edit and add info.
DP:  Paper Pizazz, DCWV glitter; Scripture:  Word Art; Circles:  Spellbinders; unknown lace; Flowers: SandyLion; EF: Victoria (CB); unknown pearls.
Lace and pearls:  http://thepapershelter.blogspot.com/ 
Uplifting Scripture:  http://www.wordartwednesday.blogspot.com/
Sketch:  http://mojomonday.blogspot.com/
Two backing papers:  http://pinkgemchallengeblog.blogspot.com/ 
Sentiment as focal point:   http://allsortschallenge.blogspot.com/

My help comes from the Lord

This is such an encouraging and supportive Scripture - from Verve.  This will be part of a series of cards I will give as a gift - our new pastor will have an open house and this should be a good housewarming gift.  The DP is Paper Studio.  I added some gold stickers from a sheet I have had a long time - there was a little embellishment opportunity and I took advantage!
Sketch:  http://www.thehousethatstampsbuilt.com/sketch-challenges/what-if-wednesday-sketch-challenge-a2113/
Stickers:  http://fabnfunkychallenges.blogspot.com/
Encouraging:  http://www.wordartwednesday.blogspot.com/
Any:  http://sisteractcardchallenge.blogspot.com/
Any:  http://creativefingerschallengeblog.blogspot.co.uk/

Safari animals

For some time I have wanted to use this DP on a card.  This is a belated thank you to someone who hosted a dinner for a travel group - we are planning a trip to South Africa in a few weeks.  We do not expect to see blue elephants or purple giraffes, but we do expect to see a lot of animals.  After I had completed the card I realized I could have had a better fit of the bg paper had I cut it in two pieces.  I often struggle to use these larger bg pieces as the pattern usually does not quite fit the layout.  These papers are from a Debbie Mumm stack.
Sketch:  http://www.inkspirationalchallenges.blogspot.com/
Animals:  http://inkyimpressionschallenges.blogspot.com/
Travel:  http://frillyandfunkie.blogspot.com/
Any:  http://www.ladyanneschallenges.com/stamp-challenge.html

Back to School - not yet?

Here is another color combo that has been a recent favorite - rust and yellow.  The stamp is YNS - not sure he is ready for school today!  The faux buttons are die cuts - done with my Cuttleabug. This is to recognize a student who has done something special.
Sketch:  http://ynschallenges.blogspot.ca/
Masculine:  http://shoppingourstash.blogspot.com/
favorite colors:  http://www.lovesrubberstampschallenges.com/
School:  http://stamp-n-doodle.blogspot.co.uk/
Congratulations:  http://www.trimmiescraftchallenge.blogspot.com/
Die Cuts:  http://cuttlebugmania.blogspot.co.uk/

Teal and burgundy

This has a bg of the Congratulations embossing folder - but I ended up eliminating more of it than I had planned - I hope you can see the word on the left panel.  Another challenge is to use my favorite color combo - I have so many it is a very hard challenge.  I did select burgundy and teal for today.  Marissa is colored with Prismas and metallic gel pens.  I used a variety of bg papers.  The teal cs, Prismas, and gems have been in my collection a long time.  The checked DP is brand new.
Sketch:  http://www.sweetsketchwednesday.blogspot.com/
Favorite color combo:  http://www.lovesrubberstampschallenges.com/
Gems with a High Hopes stamp:  http://highhhttp://highhopesstamps.blogspot.com/opesstamps.blogspot.com/
Congratulations:  http://www.trimmiescraftchallenge.blogspot.com/
Embossing:  http://oldiebutagoodiechallenge.blogspot.com/
Any:  http://www.simonsaysstampblog.com/wednesdaychallenge/

CASing Karen L

The Kraft Journal challenge this week is, for me, an intimidating one - copy your favorite designer.  First of all, these designers are favorites because I cannot possibly create a card as they can.  Additionally, I have so many favorites - too many to copy, and how to choose?  Well, I took an easy way out.  I simply chose one of my favorites from the inspiration for this challenge.  I could easily have selected any of them - all do great work - as do DT members for other blogs.  This is not to diminish the work and inspiration of Karen Letchworth.  Her work is lovely, and her comments are so thoughtful and encouraging.
Selecting this card also gave me a chance to try what I would call a "shabby chic" style - though maybe that is not the best term for a masculine card.  I used this cute turtle and funny saying - from my Wish RAK stash, so I am not sure where it came from.  This Paper Studio dp has leaves - more masculine - in colors that work well with Kraft.  I used a Memory Box stamp on some kraft, and then used the same stamp to edge the image - though I used a bit more than I should have.  The turtle is colored with a chalk pencil  I added twine, washi tape, an arrow by Basic Grey, pine branches by Cheery Lynn, and another sentiment.
Whew!  I finished with plenty of time to get ready for church!
Copying Karen:  http://thekraftjournal.blogspot.com/
Office (twine, tag, tape):  http://artisticinspirationschallenges.blogspot.co.uk/
Funny masculine:  http://cardsformen.blogspot.com/
Tag:   http://craftingforallseasons.blogspot.com/
Any:  http://artisticinspirationschallenges.blogspot.co.uk/

And - a favorite for 2013, using Kraft:  http://www.thekraftjournal.blogspot.com/

Shades of teal with dots

For me, this sketch was more of a challenge than others have been.  Usually I have images that are too large - this time I think they are a bit small - should have filled more of that middle space.  I am not a designer - what do you think?  The sentiment is from Mark's Finest Papers.  I used a scrap of dotted paper - a CB border embossing folder - edging scissors - a strip of gold stickers - teal chalk for sponging.  The DP has been in my stash for a few years, and I have also had the dies and the embossing folders for a long time.
Sketch:  http://ourdailybreaddesignsblog.blogspot.com/
Dots:  http://www.simonsaysstampblog.com/mondaychallenge/
DP:  http://pileitonchallenge.blogspot.com/
Girlie, with a sentiment:  http://www.craftysentiments.blogspot.com/
Embossing:  http://oldiebutagoodiechallenge.blogspot.com/

Black, white and a touch of gold

I enjoy making many kinds of cards - I do not seem to have found "my" style yet!  However, one style I do especially like is black and white.  I added a bit of gold - ribbon, pearls, and highlights on the image.  The image is a wonderful freebie from Beccy's Place.  The sentiment is Verve.  Ribbon, butterflies and pearls are added.
Sketch:  http://seemsalittlesketchy.blogspot.com/
Any:  http://createdwithlovechallenges.blogspot.com/
Bingo - center down - sentiment, image, pearls:  http://www.creativecreationschallenges.blogspot.co.uk/
Black, white, and one color:  http://paperprettiesblog.blogspot.com/
Bow, butterfly and a digi:  http://digidarlas.blogspot.com/
Embossing, with a digital image:  http://papermakeupstamps.blogspot.com/

Three circles

This sweet image is a digi (freebie - thank you) from Beccy's place.  They are colored with metallic gel pens for shimmer.  The circles are cut in the brown layer which is placed over the images.  The papers and sentiment are Recollection.
Sketch:  http://www.papersweeties.com/uncategorized/paper-sweeties-sketch-inspiration-10/
Dots:  http://www.simonsaysstampblog.com/mondaychallenge/
Any, with an image from Beccy:  http://beccysplace.blogspot.com/2013/08/august-challenge.html

My first twisted easel card

closed card

Card in open position, not folded in easel position

The solid purple is the back of the butterfly image which folds down for the easel display.

I tried new techniques on this card and I see I need a  LOT of practice - but there is no time right now - in  fact I will complete this post later.  I used some new powdered chalk, courtesy of Stamp'n Plus.  I mixed some powdered chalk with a bit of water and brushed through a stencil for the butterfly.  Even though I used water color paper, it still wrinkled a bit. I brushed chalk mixed with a bit of water on the stamp to do the sentiment. Then I tried to follow the tutorial for the twisted easel card, but I am kind of direction-impaired!  since the camera is not available, I posted different views.  The embossed portion is the inside of the card - which lays flat for the easel display.  The floral and light purple dp is a recent Paper Wishes purchase.
Twisted easel card:  http://marksfinestpapers.blogspot.com/
Anything with chalk:  http://chalk-ah-lot.blogspot.com/
Embossing:  http://crafterscafeblogchallenge.blogspot.com/

Birthday in pink, yellow and orange

What a bright, sunny color combination - and this Penny Black bear is enjoying one of the final romps of the summer.  He is colored with water color pencils and gel pens.  The DP is Paper Studio.  I really need a horizontal birthday folder - is there one out there?  I solved the problem by embossing a single word on each side, and doing a regular vertical emboss on the rest of the yellow layer - then I covered most of what had been embossed LOL!  There is glitter scattered over the card.  I used a lot of scraps - there was just about the right size of the yellow and orange to cut those layers - but I still have a couple of small pieces.  The stripes were cut from a larger scrap.  Even the sticky brads and ribbon were just about the end of those supplies.  I could make about 5000 more cards and still have scraps left!
Sketch:  http://tuesdaymorningsketches.blogspot.com/
Any:  http://partytimetuesdays.blogspot.com/
Summer fun, with ribbon:  http://blog.ribboncarousel.com/2013/08/rcc84-week-1.html
Scraps:  http://shellysimagesblog.blogspot.com/
Bright & sunny,  with Penny Black image:  http://pennybfriendssaturdaychallenge.blogspot.com/
Pink, yellow, orange:  http://alotarubberstamps.blogspot.com/

Early Christmas #2

I am sorry the message does not show up as well on the screen as it does IRL.  I am kind of caught up on cards -  I had LOTS of orders to fill this summer - so I can get a bit of a start on Christmas.  I think this is a $1 stamp - marked Kolette Hall.  The image is under the circle opening. The DP is from a pad by Paper Studio called Faith - I like the burgundy and green with some tan.  I used that versatile die by Cheery Lynn - from Joan's Gardens shop.  I probably should have used a darker green this time.  I added a bit of a Dazzles strip - cream colored.
sketch:  http://designed2delight.com/blog/
Celebrate:  http://natalieandamy.blogspot.co.uk/
Bingo - (diagonal - die cut, free, stamp):  http://www.stephanie-whimsicaldesigns.com/2013/08/bingo.html
Christmas, red/green, nature, image stamped under the die cut opening, Cheery Lynn die available at Joan's Gardens:  http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2101946730304982710#editor/target=post;postID=2607738375293208400

Early Christmas card

I am grateful for the Christmas challenges - but I will still be scrambling at the last minute!  This turned out busier than I like - just trying to figure out how to use some of the DP I have collected.  It is from the Paper Studio - I like it, just not for this layout.  The image is one on a nameless cube - placed behind the cut out circles.  I added CB letters, Cheery Lynn branches (turned into trees!) and a strip of Dazzles.
Sketch:  http://sketchsaturday.blogspot.com/
Celebrate (Christmas and Easter are my favorite celebrations of faith): http://natalieandamy.blogspot.co.uk/
Christmas, red/green, opening for stamped image, trees (from nature), Cheery Lynn branch die from Joan's Gardens store:  http://www.atjoansgardens.com/2013/08/this-weeks-challenge_22.html
Cuttlebug letter and branch dies:  http://cuttlebugmania.blogspot.co.uk/ 
Anything:  http://qkrstampede.blogspot.co.uk/

Welcome to college

We just got the address so it is time to send a "Welcome to College" card to our granddaughter.  Since she is very fond of cats, this is perfect - I think she will over look the elementary school look of the yield sign!  This freebie, from Dearie Doll, is precolored - great for a quick card like this.  To complete the theme, the DP is HopScotch, by Basic Grey - with some chipboard stickers also from Basic Grey.
Sketch:  http://www.sweetsketchwednesday.blogspot.com/
Back to school, w/ chipboard dots & heart - in my stash for over a year:  http://clearitoutchallenge.blogspot.ca/2013/08/time-to-get-ready-for-school.html
School:  http://basicgreychallenges.blogspot.com/
              http://www.clearlyistamp.blogspot.com/
              http://paperprettiesblog.blogspot.com/
              http://wagsnwhiskersrubberstamps.blogspot.com/
               http://www.simonsaysstampblog.com/wednesdaychallenge/

HB Brother in law

 If you follow my blog, you might notice that there are a lot of cards with a fishing theme - a popular activity among family members!  This is for a brother-in-law.  I fudged a bit on the sketch, as I wanted the names of the fish to show - one of the challenges using DP is to get the correct part of the pattern visible.  This is Karen Foster dp.  I used the Distressed Stripes embossing folder - and promptly covered all but a sliver of the border - and it does not show here!  I like the slight lift it gives the bg.

Sketch:  http://annabellestamps.blogspot.com/

Masculine, with CB embossing:  http://cuttlebugmania.blogspot.co.uk/

Fun in the sun:  http://craftycardmakers.blogspot.com/

Special Day in blue and brown

I just received an order of papers from Paper Wishes - a sort of grab bag that includes colors I really like.  This light brown with a hint of blue has lots of possibilities for me.  The scroll is Baroque Motifs (SU) and the sentiment from another favorite - a Recollections set.  I added drops from the Robins Nest and some ribbon.  All is backed with SU - Choc Chip?
Sketch:  http://www.ourdailybreaddesignsblog.blogspot.com/search/label/Shining%20the%20Light%20Challenge
Use DP:  http://pileitonchallenge.blogspot.com/
Birthday:   http://stampedblessings.com/amusing-challenge/#comment-4305http://stampedblessings.com/amusing-challenge/#comment-4305
Birthday:  http://seizethebirthday.blogspot.ca/

End of summer flowers

We need a lot of cards in late summer!  This is for a SIL whose birthday is in a few days.  The image, from y stash, is Hampton Art, I think, with a sentiment from Recollections.  I colored with watercolor pencils, dipped in water.  The bg is a CB embossing folder, and I added layers of punched flowers, topped with Robins Nest drops.  The strip is a ribbon and punched edge.  (It is almost time to leave for church - I will be back with more links, etc. later.)
Sketch:  http://digisketchchallenge.blogspot.com/
End of summer:  http://eurekastamps.blogspot.com/
No DP:   http://pileitonchallenge.blogspot.com/

Happy 50th

There have been a lot of celebrations lately.  This is for a friend I have known since grade school.  As you can tell from recent posts, I have become very fond of white embossing with a color.  This uses Victoria and Swiss dots CB folders, gold ribbon, some gems, CB numbers, and spellbinders dies.  The embossing folder, gold cs, ribbon, and dies are much more than 6 months old!
Sketch:  http://seemsalittlesketchy.blogspot.com/
Celebration:  http://natalieandamy.blogspot.co.uk/
Dimension/texture:  http://www.sarahhurleychallenges.blogspot.com/
Embossing:  http://oldiebutagoodiechallenge.blogspot.com/

White with red

The background uses parts of the "you" folder (Cuttlebug).  I wanted to use the more "serious" words, so I cut the strips and placed about half of each in the folder, then turned and did the other end with words that fit.  I am pleased with the result - trying to use the folders in different ways.  The image is from the Stampin Up set Sweet of You.  Coloring and bg are various shades of plum. The embossing folder and stamp set have been around in my supply stash for a long time, but have been pretty neglected.
Sketch:  http://sketchandstashchallenge.blogspot.com/
White on white, with a color:  http://www.vostamps.blogspot.com/ 
Any:  http://sisteractcardchallenge.blogspot.com/ 
Embossing:  http://oldiebutagoodiechallenge.blogspot.com/

For a teacher

This has been one of those days - lots of interruptions and I lose my train of thought!  And now I see a bit of red made its way to the border - LOL!  This uses a cuttlebug die - lots of pieces to create the apple and books.  The greeting is from a neglected Just Rite set - Fancy Tags.  The border is also CB, the dragonflies (??) are Cheery Lynn, and the bg Sizzix vines. All of these Back to School challenges are especially timely - our granddaughter just started her teaching career.
Back to school:  http://dutchdare-cardchallenges.blogspot.com/
Back to school:  http://www.simonsaysstampblog.com/wednesdaychallenge/
 Back to school:  http://cutedaisymay.blogspot.com/
1 decorative edge:  http://drsdesignsblo g.blogspot.com/2013/08/challenge-83-cards-with-1-decorative.html
Just Rite stamp with wings: http://justritestampers.typepad.com/justrite-inspiration/justrite-friday-challenge/
No DP:  http://pileitonchallenge.blogspot.com/


 

apple

Bright Hello

This is pretty bright for me!  The solid bg layer is dry embossed (Argyle).  I sponged with More Mustard chalk to tone it down a bit.  DP: narrow panel - Paper Studio; left panel - Recollections.  Added: pearls , ribbon, stickles (on the scalloped frame and the heart).
Sketch: http://sisteractcardchallenge.blogspot.com/
Any:  http://sisteractcardchallenge.blogspot.com/
"Nature" with stickles:  http://allthatstickles.blogspot.com/search/label/Linky%20Party
Monochromatic:  http://dreamvalleychallenges.blogspot.com/
Chalk:   http://chalknstock.blogspot.com/

Blue wildflowers

This image is one of several sent by a friend from Wish RAK on Spkitcoaststampers.  It seems just right for a monochromatic look in a blue that has a teal tinge to it.
Sketch:  http://craftingmusketeers.blogspot.co.uk/
Monochromatic:  http://www.simonsaysstampblog.com/wednesdaychallenge/

Make two

I am not at all good at organizing this blog and getting my images in  the right spot.  This will h ave to do.  The Crafty Creations challenge is to do two of a kind.  I did two with the same layout and theme, but with totally different colors and appearance.  I am getting caught up on cards I made this week end - and have already given away!  The sentiments are Cuttlebug greeting dies.  I also used Nesties, Cheery Lynn leafy dies, some ribbon, and a piece of DCWV DP that has been in my stash for a long time.
Sketch:  http://sketchsaturday.blogspot.com/
Two of a kind:  http://craftycreationschallenges.blogspot.com/
Die cuts:  http://www.craftysentiments.blogspot.com/

66th Anniversary

Recently I have had a number of friends request cards for very special occasions.  Just adding a number makes it special.  I am limited in what I have available, but the numbers from the Cuttlebug Olivia set work quite well.  My friend requested something in red - I was a bit skeptical, but I do like the result.  It is combined with ivory cs and and ivory flower.  I just received my order for Spellbinders Exquisite Circles - I am going to have to work with them a bit to figure out the best way to use them - the larger (red) circle is more of a cut out than en edge - I cut a larger circle first, then used the new die for the cut out.    Does any one have more ideas - or is there a tutorial some where?  I have not had a chance to look.
Something new -   Spellbinders, see above:  http://allsortschallenge.blogspot.com/
Dry embossing CB machine):  http://cuttlebugmania.blogspot.co.uk/
Die cuts:  http://www.simonsaysstampblog.com/mondaychallenge/
 Tic Tac Toe - across- gems, flower, ivory:  http://creativecraftchallenges2.blogspot.co.uk/

Embossed sympathy card

I really like the simplicity and elegance of dry embossing for sympathy cards.  I added a bit of a border punch (Martha Steward trellis) and  Cuttlebug border die.  The sentiment is Paper Inspirations.
Sketch:  http://seemsalittlesketchy.blogspot.com/
Sentiment (not birthday):  http://audsentimentschallengeblog.blogspot.com/
Die cuts:  http://www.simonsaysstampblog.com/mondaychallenge/

More circles

I had fun with this sketch and decided to try a second version.
Supplies:  Image - Our Daily Bread, colored with metallic gel pens and Brilliance Platinum (using an aqua brush)); CB greeting die; CB border die: Cheery Lynn butterfly; ribbon. Spellbinders circles; Sizzix EF.  All embossing and die cuts were done on my Cuttlebug.
Sketch:  http://www.ourdailybreaddesignsblog.blogspot.com/search/label/Shining%20the%20Light%20Challenge
Die cuts and embossing:  http://cuttlebugmania.blogspot.co.uk/

Happy Birthday, yellow

This is a fun image to work with - a digi from The Alley Way - colored with Prismas.  I added a strip of punched grass and a sun - for a sunny summer day.  The DP is .  Basic Grey.  Petaloo flowers, shiny cord and Nesties complete the scene.
Sketch:  http://www.palspaperarts.com/
Lots of  Yellow:  http://paperplaytime.blogspot.com/
Weather, with BG cs:  http://basicgreychallenges.blogspot.com/
Outdoors:  http://pileitonchallenge.blogspot.com/