CROPNKATHY

Happy Birthday

2012-01-26T05:39:00.003-07:00

Today I am sharing a birthday card I made for a colleague of mine! I have been playing around with Bugaboo digi stamps lately and since my co-worker loves golf, I couldn't resist using this J.J. image.

Inside of Card:

Close Ups:

Supplies used:

Stamp: Bugaboo Digi & computer generated saying for inside
Markers: copic
Pens: White Sharpie paint, White Gelly Roll & Black 0.5 copic multiliner
Ink: Black CTMH
Button: Doodlebug
Stickers: Dollarama Scrapbook Kit
Flowers & Brad: Unknown
Gems: Colorbok
Cardstock: White Daisy (CTMH); Brown & Pink Cardstock (Bazzill)
Designer Paper: DCWV glitter pack
Circle Punches: Marvy
Border Punch: Martha Stewart
Glitter: Ritz
Sparkle: Liquid Glass (CTMH); Glitz Stardust (CTMH)

I would like to enter this card into the following challenges:

Crafts and Me Challenges - Pink and Sparkly
Critter Sketch Challenge Blog - Use 3 embellishments
Make It Monday - Anything Goes
Truly Madly Crafty Challenge - Anything Goes
Birthday Sundaes Challenges - Anything Goes

Thanks for stopping by! Have a fabulous day!

Eat Cake!

2012-01-10T05:49:00.004-07:00

Happy Birthday to my mom (a day early)! Hopefully, she doesn't check my blog today, but if you do - I hope you have a great day tomorrow and I love you lots! Anyhoo, I wanted to make a really special card for my mom this year and when I saw this Stella image, I knew I had to use it, because she always makes me smile!

Inside of Card:

Card & Envelope: Also used a flash so you can see sparkle on hat and cake better.

Can you see the liquid glass on her glasses and balloon hi-lite?

Supplies Used:

Stamps on Envelope: Small flower (Penny Black); Large flower (studio G)
Stella, greeting and presents on inside: Bugaboo Digi
Inside greeting: computer font
DP: DCWV
White Paper: X-Press It
Cardstock: Bazzill's
Markers: Copic
Pen: Copic - Chocolate Spica
Punch: Martha Stewart
Gems: Colorbok
Small Flowers: Prima
Large Flowers: Unknown
Sparkle: Liquid Glass (CTMH); Star Dust Stickles
Ink: Chocolate (CTMH)

I would like to enter this card in the following challenges:

Catch the Bug Challenge Blog - Anything goes
Simply Create Too - Layers, Layers and more Layers
Stamp and Create - Anything goes
CES challenges - Anything goes
Birthday Sundaes - Anything goes

Have a super crafty day,

CAS card

2012-01-06T17:15:00.003-07:00

Good day everyone! I had some fun playing around with a CAS card for a couple of challenges this afternoon. First of all, I haven't had the chance to try my big kick yet with some chipboard and think I have a new addiction - LOL! So fun it is! And easy too! Second, I got a chance to play around with a couple of my favourite CTMH stamp sets. I really do love the My Acrylix stamps. I am still sort of new to the CAS style, so let me know what you think.

Close up of flower:

Supplies:
Cardstock - white - Gina K heavy weight; chocolate & watermelon - CTMH
Ink - CTMH chocolate and watermelon
Die - Tim Holtz - Tattered Florals (Sizzix)
Stamp set - Adorable & Thanks so Much - CTMH
Button - unknown
Thread - Making Memories

I made this card for the following challenges:

CASual Fridays Blog - create a project using chipboard
Outlawz - CAS challenge - white base - no pattern paper
Fun with Shapes and More - no black lines

Warm Hugs,

Thanks a Bunch Tag!

2012-01-05T10:47:00.003-07:00

Just had to share this cute little tag using a Penny Black Betsy Bluebell image! I think this stamp set is so adorable! The card is colored with copics and the gift tag was made with a spellbinders die. Thanks for looking!

Close Up:

Inside of gift tag:

I would like to enter this card in the following challenge:

Penny Black Saturday Challenge - Make a Tag

Have a super crafty day, Katherine

Thank You

2012-01-05T05:54:00.005-07:00

Happy New Year to all my lovely blog followers and to all the visitors who take the time to visit my blog! I appreciate all your comments and feedback and look forward to another wonderful crafting year. This thank you card was one of a few I made to just say thanks to all the wonderful people in my world. I hope you all have a fabulous year and I look forward to all your visits!

Close up:

I would like to enter this card into the following challenges:

All That Scraps - Anything Goes

Inky Impressions Challenge Blog - Anything Goes

The Paper Shelter - Anything Goes

The Sisterhood of Crafters - Black, White and One other color

Clear It Out Challenge Blog - Thank You & Bonus: use up your twine ribbon

Cupcake Craftroom - Anything Goes

Really Reasonable Ribbon - Sparkle and Ribbon

iCopic Weekly Challenge - Smooth / Shiny Hair

The Pink Elephant Challenge - Anything Goes

Truly Madly Crafty - Anything Goes

Best Wishes for a crafty new year,

Penny Black Blog Hop Entry

2011-12-31T17:42:00.008-07:00

I was completely inspired this afternoon by all the fabulous creations on the Penny Black Blog Hop. I decided to join in the fun with this quick creation inspired by: Jeanne Streiff. Her creation was totally eye catching and I had to try a similar design.

Colored Cardstock: Penny Black
White Cardstock: X-Press It
Ink: Momento - Black Tuxedo & Tim Holtz - Walnut Stain
Stamps: Penny Black - Mimi's Heart (main image), Mimi's Christmas (gift), Betsy Bluebell (enjoy your day)
Baker's Twine: Divine Twine
Markers: Copic & white paint Sharpie
Punches: Marvy Uchida - scallop, round, square

I would like to enter this card into the following challenges:

Cooking it up with Katie - Anything goes
Party Time Tuesdays - Anything goes
Scrapbook Sisters - Anything goes
Shopping our Stash - Tie It Up!
Top Tip Tuesday - Anything goes
Outlawz - Greeting Card group - Anything goes
The Secret Crafter Saturday Challenge - Anything goes
Card Crafters Circle - Anything goes
Stampin for the Weekend - Anything goes

Thanks for visiting and Happy New Year!

Eternal Love

2011-12-31T10:02:00.005-07:00

Happy New Year everyone! Today I am sharing a canvas project that I created for my grandmother. This is the third canvas I have created using a similar template and I think they just turn out so well. The papers are from CTMH, ink is Tim Holtz Walnut Stain, twigs are from our forest :), tag is 7 Gypsies (an ATC card that I cut out), leaves - torn paper - own design, key and rafia are unknown and metal accents are TPC design from Grandma's Attic collection. I cut out the letters using my Cricut and the swirls were done with a sizzix die.
Adhesive used: ATG to adhere papers & photo, Tombow mono multi for letters and to put together the flowers and 3D zots glue dots for all the embellies.

Close up of flowers:

Close up of tag and other flower:

I would like to enter this project into the following challenges:

Top Tip Tuesday - Anything Goes
Everybody Art Challenge - Anything Goes
Make It Monday - Anything Goes

Thanks for stopping by and have a blessed New Year!

Warm Hugs,

Couple Quick Christmas Cards

2011-12-19T02:15:00.009-07:00

Good Day! Just wanted to share a couple quick cards I made. The second one is a photo card I created and just mounted on cardstock. See previous post for details on the photo card.

SNOWMAN CARD:

PHOTO CARD:

INSIDE OF PHOTO CARD:

I would like to enter the snowman card in the following challenges:

Creations by Gill - Red and Green
My Sheri Crafts - Let It Snow
Card Makin Mamas - Christmas
Scrappin Chics Challenge Blog - Christmas or Holiday
Charisma Cardz Challenges - Last Minute Christmas Makes
Penny's Paper-Crafty Challenge Blog - Merry Christmas
Outlawz Challenges CAS - Photo Inspiration

Thanks for looking and have a great day!

Christmas Greetings

2011-12-17T15:39:00.002-07:00

I have been busy creating for Christmas and wanted to share a quick Christmas photo card I created using the My Memories software. I am in love with this product. It make's digital creation so simple and easy. After Christmas and after everyone has received their gifts, I will post some of the projects I have been working on. Remember, if you would like to try out this amazing software, please use the code in my sidebar (also listed below) to get your $10 off discount.

Promo code: STMMMS94871

Thanks for looking!

Have a fabulous weekend,

Halloween Layout

2011-10-23T18:04:00.001-06:00

I had to do a quick post to share a Halloween layout I just finished! I am so excited about this, because for so long I have only had time for cards, but now with this new digital software from My Memories I am able to sit down and scrapbook a layout in mere minutes.

How fun is that? Remember I am doing a give-away for this amazing software on Oct. 31 -- yes Halloween! Be sure to leave a comment on the prior post to be entered into the drawing. Or if you can't wait and want to buy the software, make sure you use the code on my sidebar to save $10.

Have a fantabulous day,

MY MEMORIES SOFTWARE GIVEAWAY

2011-10-15T16:21:00.007-06:00

FREE GIVE-A-WAY!!!

One lucky person will win their own free copy of the My Memories software. I will draw one lucky winner on Monday, October 31st (Yes, Halloween!!!!) - I thought that would be a great day for a treat. In order to be entered in the drawing please do one or all of the following:

1. Visit http://www.mymemories.com/and choose a favorite digital paper pack or layout, then come back here and leave a comment telling me which one you like best and why you like it.
2. For an extra entry, you can follow the MyMemories blog, Facebook page, or Twitter stream. Just leave another comment letting me know if you are following.

Blog: http://blog.mymemories.com/

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/mymemoriessuite

Twitter: http://twitter.com/#%21/mymemoriessuite

**DON'T FORGET:

As a special for all of my blog readers, My Memories has provided a "Share the Memories" code that provides a $10 discount off the purchase of the My Memories Suite Scrapbook software plus a $10 coupon for the MyMemories.com store - a $20 value! To take advantage of this special offer, go to the MyMemories Suite link here: http://www.mymemories.com/digital_scrapbooking_software and enter this special code:

STMMMS94871

(more details on the MY MEMORIES SOFTWARE tab at the top of my blog)

Good Luck and happy scrapping!

PS: Check out a couple more quick layouts I just did!

Cute Hedgie & a Sketch

2011-08-22T17:27:00.002-06:00

Wow! I have a fire under my butt this week! I can't remember the last time I made this many cards in a short time frame. Guess it helps that our family has many August birthdays. Anyway, I based this card on a Sweet Sketch Wednesday creation. As soon as I saw this sketch, I knew it had to be my next card! I don't think I have used this many layers before!

Sweet Sketch:

My Card:

Inside of card:

Supplies used:

Ink: CTMH (smoothie) & Memento (rich cocoa)
Stamps: Penny Black "Wonderful Day" (Hedgie), CTMH - both sentiments, Stampin' Up - flowers on envelope
Markers: copic: W1, 0, E50, E31, E25, E17, YR02, YR21, Y21, R11, R20, R32
Cardstock: CTMH Daisy White and X-Press It
Pattern Paper: My Mind's Eye - Dreamy 2
Flowers: My Mind's Eye - Dreamy 2

Challenges I would like to enter:

Sweet Sketch Wednesday - Sketch
Outlawz - How does your garden grow
Make it Monday - anything goes
Paper Playtime - anything goes
Stamp with Fun - summer
Stamps R Us - anything goes

Thanks for stopping by! I appreciate any and all comments, questions and suggestions! Have a super crafty day!

Scrappy Hugs,

2 more Birthday cards

2011-08-21T15:08:00.010-06:00

Hello blogland! I have been busy crafting today and in between two major projects, got the itch to do a couple of birthday cards and just had to share.
The first card is a boy birthday card and I used an adorable Mo Manning Digital Image called Beary Hilarious! I love this bear - he is so cute! The image is colored with copics and all paper is from my scrap bin. The star stamp is from CTMH and I distressed and stamped with CTMH moonstruck.

Inside of card:

My second card is perfect for a little girl! I used more digi images. The girl is a Digi by Lori Design and the butterfly is from Digi Stamp Boutique. Again the papers are all from my scrap bin and the ink, flower stamp & inside birthday stamp are from CTMH. The Happy Birthday stamp on the outside of the card is from Gina K Designs. The pearls are CTMH and Kaisercraft.

Inside of card:

Challenges I would like to enter boy card in:

Bronte and Bella's Challenge - Feeling Blue
Sketchy Colors - shades of blue
Sparkles Forum Challenges - one for the boys
Send a Smile 4 Kids - punches and die cuts
Totally Gorjuss - cute and cuddly
Digis with Attitude - anything goes
Stamp Insanity - anything goes
Divas by Design - Birthdays

Challenges I would like to enter girl card in:

Birthday Sundaes Challenge - pink, green, white
CMC copic challenge group - winged things
Designed to Delight - anything goes
Send a Smile 4 Kids - punches and die cuts
Card Makin Mamas - pink
The Poodles Parlour - anything goes
Craft Us Crazy - anything goes
Divas by Design - Birthdays
Flutter By Wednesdays - punches and/or die cuts

Thanks for stopping by! See you next time!

Quick Birthday Post

2011-08-19T08:59:00.004-06:00

Wow! It has been a long time since I have had a chance to post anything and so even though this was a quick birthday card I made a couple days ago, I just had to get it on here. I made this card for my sweet 11 year old Adam. Sending you big Birthday hugs Adam and am thrilled you had such a great day yesterday!
I used a MelJen Digital image and colored it with copic markers. The gems are CTMH, cardstock - Gina K and patterned paper is unknown. I used heavenly blue CTMH ink to do the sky and do some blending.

Inside of Card:

Challenges I would like to enter:

Bronte and Bella's Challenge - feeling blue
Crafting Journey - anything goes
Crafts and Me Challenges - blue or blue/green

Hope you enjoy the card and thanks for visiting! Have a happy scrappy day!

Hugs,

So Tweet!

2011-06-16T12:02:00.006-06:00

Wings is the new theme for tomorrow over at Simply Create. Come on over and join the fun! The DT has come up with some great pieces of inspiration and we would love to see your creations with wings!

Here is my card: (I have been waiting to use my spellbinders dies for a couple of months and I have had this cute little birdie for awhile as well -- so it was time to try them out!)

Inside of card:

Products used:

Patterned Paper: My Mind's Eye

Cardstock: Bazzill & unknown

Stamps: Imaginisce

Ink: CTMH Heavenly Blue and Momento Rich Cocoa

Punch: Martha Stewart

Dies: Spellbinders petite scallop and large circle

Brads: unknown

Markers: Copics: 0, YG91, YG03, YG11, YG 25, R32, R20, RV25, C1, BG53

Glitter: CTMH glitz stardust

Challenges I would like to enter:

This card was based on a sketch from Outlawz:

Simply Scrapping Copic Challenge - ground your image

Use it Tuesday - use unused, dies, punches or cut-outs (spellbinders dies - there are a few sets waiting for me to show them some love :)

By the Cute and Girly Challenges - in the garden

Crafting for all seasons Challenge Blog - summer

Make It Monday - anything goes :) as always

The Paper Shelter - punches and dies

Have a super sunny day,

Flowers are blooming

2011-06-14T08:28:00.007-06:00

Good day everyone! I have a flower card to share with you today that can be used for any occasion. I was inspired by all the new things blooming in my garden today. I just had to make a quick card while on my lunch break to celebrate all this beauty that is surrounding me.
Hope you enjoy my card! (FYI - the deep blue has a touch of turquoise to it, but no matter how I photographed it, the bright and brilliance of the blues just aren't quite the same).

Inside of card and side view to show the dimension of the flower.

Close up of flower . . .

Supplies used:

Cardstock: unknown

Embossing folder: floral fantasy (cuttlebug)

Button: dollar store

Floss: making memories pastel

Stamp: sundail (Penny Black)

Markers: copic: YR02, YR04, YR07, BG02, BG05, BG07 and white sakura opaque paint pen

Glitter: stickles - orange & blue

Ribbon: recycled from a bath set

Punch: Fiskars scallop border

Challenges I would like to enter my card in:

K B Cute Monday Challenges - anything goes

Kaboodle Doodles Challenge - floral showcase

Stamping Scrapping Challenge Central - embossing

Totally Gorjuss: Challenge - flower power

Frosted Designs: Fabulous Fridays - stitching

Sassy Studio Designs - stitching

The Poodles Parlour - anything goes

Crafts and Me Challenges - stamp something

Truly Scrumptious - summer sparkle

Make it Monday - anything goes

Simply Scrapping CAS challenge - buttons

Penny Black at All Sorts - use your favourite Penny Black stamp

Thanks for visiting,

Dad Card and a win!

2011-06-02T17:36:00.003-06:00

I have two things to share today! First of all I am super excited that I won the sketch challenge on the Penny Black blog this week for my Enjoy your Day card on the post below! I love Penny Black stamps and now I will have a new set along with some Mix n' Match cardstock. Thanks so much Penny Black!

Second, it is time for another Simply Create challenge (which will be posted tomorrow morning). This time the theme is Dad/Father. I have to admit I struggled with this challenge. I, like so many others, have difficulty with male cards. I ripped up my first one, but am satisfied with my effort on this project. Let me know what you think and please give constructive feedback if you see a way to improve my card! :)

All supplies are CTMH:

Paper & My Stickease: It's a Guy Thing
Stamp set: Wonderful Friend
Ink: Barn Red, Cocoa, New England Ivy
Brads and hinge are also CTMH

Other Challenges I would like to enter this card into:

Outlawz Challenges - Greeting card - anything goes
Ai Factory Challenge Blog - distress it
Crafty Sentiments - neutral colors
Crafting for all Seasons - dads/fathers
The Paper Shelter - glad for dad
Scrapbook Sisters - a mans world
Scrapalicious Blog - card for a man
Sweet Stamps - masculine

Thanks for stopping in and have a super crafty weekend,

Enjoy Your Day

2011-05-25T15:58:00.003-06:00

Hello everyone out there in blogland! I hope you have sunnier skies than what we have. I don't mind the rain, but it's become chilly . . . brrrr! Perfect reason to make a sunny and happy card. The following card was inspired by a sketch on the Penny Black Blog.

Inside of card:

Supplies Used:

Stamps: Penny Black - Embrace; Betsy Bluebell for sentiment
Patterned Paper: My Mind's Eye - Dreamy
Cardstock: CTMH - white daisy & XPress It
Markers: Copics: C1, C3, C5, R11, R20, 0, BG10, YG03, Y21, Y23, R32 - 0.3 black multi-liner & Sakura white opaque marker
Ink: Momento - Tuxedo Black & CTMH - Breeze
Glitter: Yellow Stickles
Brads: unknown
Die Cut: My Mind's Eye - Dreamy collection

Challenges I would like to enter:

Penny Black Blog - sketch challenge
Outlawz Copic / Promarker Challenge - use blender
Crafting For All Seasons Challenge Blog - anything goes
Fab n Funky Challenge Blog - Cute & Cuddly
Repeat Impressions DCC525 Designer’s Choice Challenge - use stitching (faux or real)
My Mum's Craft Shop Challenges - Favourite colours
The Paper Shelter - anything goes
Stampavie and More Challenge Blog - pink
Papertake Weekly Challenge - pale, pretty pastels

Thanks for stopping by!

Hugs,

Special Day is the theme!

2011-05-20T10:38:00.002-06:00

What a beautiful sunny day! Definitely some wonderful weather for some gardening. Before I head out for the day, I wanted to tell you about the new challenge that will be posted today at Simply Create. The theme is Special Day! So come join us for the fun and let's see what you create - birthday, wedding or whatever other Special Day you would like to celebrate!

For this challenge I decided to make a wedding keepsake box. I have had the supplies since I got married last year and have just not been able to find time to do the actual project.

Top of the box:

Close up of flowers:

Sides:

Supplies:

Box: discontinued item from CTMH

Stamp set: CTMH "Adorable"

Paper, ribbon/lace, flowers, Metal accent & brads, acetate overlays & shimmery flourishes: making memories

Ink: Dew Drop "Platinum Planet"

Jewels: Bazzill

Black Velvet brad: Doodle Bug

Glitter: Glitz Stardust - CTMH

Other Challenges I would like to enter this project into:

Dutch Dare Card Challenges - altered project

Paper Romance - anything but a card

High Hopes Rubber Stamps - 3-D Box, bag etc.

Bunny Zoe's Crafts - Lace

Hippity with Ippity - flowers

Make it Monday - anything goes

Stamp Fairy - 3 embellishments

I Did It Creations Challenge Blog - ribbon & lace

Sparkles Forum Challenges - Recipe: 2 papers, 1 ribbon/bow, 2 embellishments

Craft Your Days Away - White plus one

Papertake Weekly - Bloom & Grow

Thanks for stopping by and have a gorgeous sunny day!

Hugs,

CAS Challenge

2011-05-12T05:05:00.000-06:00

Ok, since I couldn't sleep, I decided I would try something new and found a CAS (Clean and Simple) challenge on the Outlawz Challenges blog. The specifications were to use: kraft, flowers and pearls. Of course since it is CAS; not filling in those empty spaces or doing lots of layers was hard for me. I am still not too sure what I think about this particular card, but it is kind of growing on me. I know the young lady who I am going to send it to probably won't be analyzing it like I am, however, all that open space is kinda freakin' me out LOL!

Supplies used:
Paper: kraft cardstock (not sure?), CTMH "Notebook" background paper
Flower Die: Tim Holtz Die, tattered flowers
Stamp set: CTMH "Adorable"
Ink: CTMH Desert Sand & Hollyhock
Pearls: CTMH

Let me know what you think?!? Should I leave it alone, fill it in, start over LOL! Thanks in advance for your feedback.

Have a lovely day,

Lucky Me!

2011-05-12T01:33:00.000-06:00

Hello blogland! I just had to do a post on how excited I am that two very nice things have happened in the past week. First, I won some blog candy on Cats Scratching Post as part of the Simon Says Stamp Anniversary Challenge and Blog hop. I won a $10 gift certificate to Simon Says Stamp online store (my absolute favourite online store). Next, I just found out I made the top 3 at The Sisterhood of Crafters challenge blog for my mom's mother's day card that is in the post below. I have never won candy or been top 3 before so I am very thrilled as I often wondered if it would ever happen - there is just so much amazing talent out there! Thank you to all my new blog visitors and followers and for all of your lovely comments; they are much appreciated!
Have a wonderful day,

Mom-isms!

2011-05-06T13:33:00.008-06:00

Time for another Simply Create Challenge: What did you say?

Since it is Mother's Day weekend in the US (and Canada), Simply Create challenges you to create something with sayings that either Moms would say or what someone else may say about or to Moms.

Be sure to check out what the SC team has come up with for inspiration and be sure to add your own creation to the list.

My creation is for my mom for Mother's Day this weekend; so hopefully you are not reading my blog in the next couple of days Mom! If you do, pretend you haven't seen this :) LOL!

Anyway, my card is made up of "Mom-isms" that I have heard my mom say in the past.
I used all CTMH products for this card.
Colors are: Baby Pink, Heavenly Blue, Chocolate and Vineyard Berry.
I used the RGB codes for the CTMH colors (as listed on my blog - check out the CTMH RGB color page) to print out the "Top 10 Mom-isms" on my printer.
I used a variety of fonts from CK and others downloaded from the internet.
Stamp sets used were: Simple Stitches and Dream Big.
The paper kit is: Level II Top Stitch (one of my faves!) and the matching My Stickease are Top Stitch as well.

I inked the blooms and the edges of the paper. The inside flower was made using paper shapers punches and My Stickease. This card was inspired by a sketch from Clean & Simple Stamping and even though I didn't totally stay "Simple", their design got my creative juices going.

Hope you enjoy my "Mom-isms" and can relate to some of them :).

Close up of inside of card:

Inside:

Challenges I would like to enter this card into:

Clean & Simple Stamping - sketch
Digi's With Attitude! - Make us Laugh! Funny sentiments

Fairy Knoll Challenge - Mother's Day
Paper Cutz Challenge - Mother's Day
Aud Sentiments Challenge Blog - Mother's Day
Outlawz Challenges - Mother's Day

Divas by Design Challenge - anything goes
For Fun Challenges - Mother's Day or lots of flowers
The Sisterhood of Crafters - Mother's Day
Papertake Weekly Challenge - anything goes
Party Time Tuesday's Challenge Blog - Mother's Day
Tuesday Throwdown - Mother's Day
Happileigh Scrappin' Challenge - Honor your mom

To all you moms out there: Happy Mother's Day and have a fantabulous weekend!

Hugs,

Howdy!

2011-04-26T12:35:00.006-06:00

Over at Simply Create, it is time for a new challenge: #42: Time to rock the metal

We have some exciting news for this new challenge: Bonibleaux Designs is our sponsor. :)

Here is a little about them:

Bonibleaux Designs carries all of your crazy "Dude" image needs. We bring you guy images and ideas for those hard to make cards for the "Dudes" in your life. Guys aren't about flowers and fluff. Guys are our heroes, our fighters, our beer chuggers and bug squashers.

Bonibleaux Designs bring you Manly Man images for your cards and gift ideas. We are all about the "Dudes" here.

Now for the prize to the lucky random winner:

On top of using metal in your design, here are a couple more details:

1. create any kind of new project

2. can be combined with other challenges

3. use ANY STAMPS

4. deadline May 6th

5. add a direct link with Mr. Blue Froggy

6. play as many times as you like

Here is my card for the Challenge:

Inside of card:

Close up of image:

Supplies: Digi's: Dude Time Doodles, Brads: making memories, Photo Corners: making memories, Markers: copics & spica clear, Cardstock: bazzill & kraft (unknown), Designer Paper: my mind's eye, Ink: Momento- Black Tuexedo Other: tin foil

Let me know what you think and hope you join us over at Simply Create.

Challenges I would like to enter this card into:

Tuesday Throwdown - add brads or eyelets

Party Time Tuesdays - anything goes

Bunny Zoe's Crafts - one for the boys

Craft your passion challenges - show us your layers

Stamping Scrapping Challenge Central - anything goes

Creative Inspirations Challenge Blog - use a digi

The Cheerful Stamp Pad - there is a man in my life

Simon Says Stamp - anything goes

Make it Monday Create - Share - Inspire - anything goes

Have a super sunny craft filled day,

Happy 13th Birthday Alex!!!!

2011-04-15T05:31:00.002-06:00

Well . . .13 years ago today, I became a mother, and it was love at first sight. It is so hard to believe that my "baby" is 13 and is now a teenager. Wow, how time flies! I wish you nothing but the best Alexander and may God bless you as you enter this new phase in your life. Have a wonderful birthday!!
It has been awhile since I really made a masculine card, but I am pleased with how Alex's birthday card turned out. I was inspired by a couple of the challenge blogs, but I will come back later today to post supplies and the challenges I would like to enter this card into. I just wanted to get this photographed and posted before I gave it away. I hope you all have a wonderful Friday and thanks for stopping by. I hope your weather wherever you are is better than what we were surprised with yesterday . . . you guessed it . . . a huge amount of really wet, heavy snow. Anyhoo, I best get a couple of hours of shuteye before I have to get up to make a special b-day breakfast!!

I would like to enter this card in the following Challenges:

Cooking It Up with Katie - 1 image, 2 pattern papers, 3 embellies

Simon Says Stamp Challenge Blog - theme - for a child

Crafty Cardmakers Spotlight Challenges - Card for teenage boy (Tweens)

Woodware USA Clear Stamps - Anything goes

Card Ideas - Card for young child

Hugs,

First Holy Communion

2011-04-10T03:37:00.001-06:00

Today is my God daughter "Gabrielle's" 1st Holy Communion. I am so excited for her. Of course her dear Aunty had to stay up late to make her a special card :) - and no of course it couldn't have been done in advance as that would stifle the creative juices LOL! I am quite pleased with how this card turned out. I used a couple of challenges to get my creative juices flowing - something about 4 or more layers and monochromatic. I will have to look those up later today after the celebration and church service. But in the meantime, just had to take pics before giving this special card away. The image is a Mo Manning digital stamp, paper is Bazzil's and XPress-It, markers are copics, MS punches, spellbinder's lacey circles, Shimmer spritz by Tsukineko, some reflections flowers from Michael's and pearls by CTMH. I will update the supplies and the challenges later this evening with more complete details.

Inside of Card - Digi is a cross from JW Illustrations.

Thanks for looking and have a wonderful rest of the weekend!

Hugz,

Clean & Simple Cards

2011-04-09T10:38:00.003-06:00

I had the opportunity to create some fun and fast cards for some dear friends yesterday! I used all CTMH products. The main paper kit was: Life Delights and colors used were chocolate, sweet leaf, lilac mist and blush! I love how these turned out! Third card down is entered in OUTLAWZ CAS challenge.

Thanks for looking and have a wonderful, sunny spring Saturday!
Hugz,

Eggstra Sweet

2011-04-07T18:29:00.002-06:00

Time for another challenge at the Simply Create Blog. I won't give away the theme until it is announced tomorrow, but you might be able to make a guess from the card that I made. I just think this Easter Bunny Digi from Bugaboo Stamps is just the sweetest image. I added a couple of Easter Egg Digis in the background from Bits n Bobs.

Other supplies used:
Stamp: CC Designs - butterfly, CTMH: atomic lowercase & adorable
Markers: Copic: E31, E33, E35, R11, R20, R32, YR02, YR04, BG02, BG53, G07, G17, YG06, YG09, YG93 & Black Zig Millenium 0.5
Ink pads: CTMH: Heavenly Blue, Crystal Blue & Blush and Momento: Tuxedo Black
Hard to see in picture - but 2 blue ink pads were used to sponge in a light blue sky
Floss: Making Memories
Buttons: Doodle Bug
Glitter: CTMH Glitz Stardust
Cardstock: CTMH Hollyhock & Blush
DP: Reminisce "Happy Easter"

This card was inspired by a challenge on the iCopic Lover blog that I would like to enter this card into. The challenge was to color a fancy background and I just loved the coloring grass tutorials. I also did a light blue sky with light filmy white clouds which was difficult to catch in the photo, but you might be able to see it a little bit better in the close up below. It was a fun technique to try!

Other Challenges entered:
Outlawz: Copic/Promarker "Mixed Medium"
Simon Says Stamp Challenge: Spring or Easter theme
Cardmadfairy's Digi Days - Easter theme
Digis With Attitude! - Easter theme
Paper Cutz Challenge - hand stamped, digital stamped or Cricut cut image of a bunny, lamb, chick or Easter eggs
Stampin' For the Weekend - Easter

Thanks for looking and have a fantabulous day!
Hugs,

Sweet Flower Kiki

2011-03-25T16:18:00.003-06:00

Hello everyone. Today's card is my first as a Design Team member for the Simply Create challenge blog! The challenge is DIY. I decided to try a paper carnation, stamp on DP to create a new background, print the sentiment by hand and try some fake stitching. The stamp is a digi stamp from CC designs and is called Flower Kiki - isn't she adorable?? Of course she is colored with copics, the ribbon is from Michaels and the DP is Tahiti Grafitti by Flair Designs. The paper is stamped with a PTI stamp set called "Background Basics: Text Style". Make sure you stop by the Simply Create - DIY challenge and see all the wonderful ideas by the DT and to submit your own entry. TFL and have a wonderful day!

Challenges entered:

Wild Orchid Challenges - Dieing to punch it out

Allsorts Challenge Blog - For a Special Lady

Craft Your Days Away - For Mum or a Special Lady

Crafts and Me Challenges - Anything Goes

Stampin For the Weekend - For Mum/Mothers Day

The Shabby Tea Room - Bingo - I used Die cuts, Flowers & gems (pearls)

2 Sisters Challenge Blog - Make your own embellisments (flower & bow)

A Spoonful of Sugar - Ribbon, Pearls/Rhinestones & Flower

Freshly Brewed Challenges - Use 2 or more embellies

Anything Goes Challenge Blog - Make your own embellishments

7 Kids College Challenge Blog - Pink & Flowers

Simon Says Stamp Challenge - Mother's Day/Girlie

Stamping Vacation - Use Glitter

Coloring practice

2011-03-14T10:53:00.004-06:00

Happy spring???! Still at least 24 inches of the white stuff outside, so it would be nice if the melting would happen soon. Anyhoo, was taking advantage of some quiet time to practice my copic coloring. Today my focus was on skin tone and blending. TFL and have a great day!

NB**The purples show up differently than on the project no matter how many different ways I adjust my lighting.

Supplies:
Stamp: Magnolia-Bride & Bridesmaid
Cardstock: Neenah, Bazill ?? shimmery pink & purple
Ink: Momento: tuxedo black & london fog
Copics: E01, E00, E000, E25, E29, E31, B60, C1, BV23, R20, R00, V04, V17
Flowers: CTMH blooms
Ribbon: CTMH smokey plum
Gems: CTMH bitty sparkles
Punch: Scallop Circle (Marvy Uchida - Green)
Unknown: glitter glue, brads

Challenges entered:
Bugaboo Stamps - Scallops Anyone??
Simon Says Stamp Challenge - Anything goes
Simply Create - Monochromatic
Stampin' for the Weekend - Springtime
Moxie Fab World - Markers Challenge

***New Challenge (May 7) - Flashback Friday Challenge - First wedding card

The challenge at Moxie Fab is based on the new Stamp It! Techniques issue. This is an amazing resource and the focus is on using your markers! Soooo fun!

Quick Cards

2011-02-27T15:39:00.003-07:00

Hello everyone! I enjoyed making some quick cards for a group that I belong to for the members who are leaving. I used a couple sketches for inspiration to come up with the cards below. Both of the sketches comes from one of my favorite blogs:
Clean and Simple Stamping

123

Ten Minute Monday

MY QUICK CARDS

SUPPLIES USED:

Stamps: CTMH: cottage floral, shining star, sweet occasions

Card Bases: CTMH Daisy White

Ink: CTMH: juniper; sunset, black, chocolate & smoothie

Patterned Paper: My Minds Eye Dreamy 2 collection

Sizzix Dies: Tattered Florals (Tim Holtz); Flower layers #3

Punches: Marvy Uchida star (yellow) & paper shapers flower

Pearls: CTMH

CTMH - Close To My Heart

NEW STAMPAVIE treats! Can't wait to make some new cards with these goodies!!!!!!

Thanks for stopping by and having a look. Have a great rest of the weekend.

Organizing CTMH stamps

2011-02-15T04:49:00.001-07:00

A number of people have inquired about how I store my CTMH My Acrylix stamp sets. I have finally come up with a system that I am totally happy with. Now instead of flipping through stacks of envelopes for images, I simply flip through a binder that is organized by categories and cross referenced using an inventory list. I know that sounds a bit confusing, so I will demonstrate step by step with pictures on how my system works. It is a bit time consuming to set this up, but so worth it! (I have to apologize in advance, some of the pictures are a little dark).

Supplies needed: Binder (I have mine in a 2"), 8.5 x 11 page protectors, dividers, photocopies of your stamp sets, your stamp sets (obviously), boxes or My Acrylix organizers (Z1038) to hold your stamps, labeller or pen and your computer or paper to do an index for each section of the binder (which is essentially your inventory)

Step 1:
Scan or photocopy each stamp set (I just take them out of the plastic envelope and put them on my scanner as I receive them. Initially, I took all my stamp sets to Staples and photocopied them). **This was the hardest part.

Step 2:
Sort your stamp sets in a way that makes sense to you. I generally sort by themes: spring, sentiments, Christmas etc. The My Acrylix Organizer (Z1038) holds 15 sets, so that is how many I grouped together. Before I started using the CTMH organizers, I used boxes from Michaels that actually hold the same number of sets. Your sets will be whatever the size of your storage container is. Then label each of the containers that hold a set with a number or a letter (I used letters).

Step 3:
Label each stamp set with the corresponding letter or number from it's box. You could even take this a step further and give it a sub number to correspond to it's spot in the box. Eg. B-7 which means your stamp set goes back into box B into the 7th spot.

Step 4:
Make a list / chart with the stamps from each box (I chose to put them in the order they are in the box.- - that's up to you). I Included the name of the stamp, item # and description. The title at the top of the page indicates box letter and theme.

For boxes that are not full, I leave enough blanks on the chart so that I can easily add when I get new ones and I pre-print the labels and store them with the chart in the page protector so that adding new inventory is simplified.

Step 5:
Next I made dividers / tabs and attached them to the page protectors. I then followed with inserting the photocopies of the sets in the order they are in their storage box. I put the photocopies back to back. For some of the smaller sets, you could put two on a page, but I just wanted to keep it simple. I also put extra page protectors in each section that was not yet full.

Step 6:
I made a cover for my binder and then organized all the sets on a shelf. I can't begin to tell you how fast I can find a stamp or a particular image now - it is Awesome! I hope you find some of this helpful. If you have any questions or if I've missed something, please e-mail me at: cropnkathy@gmail.com

Happy Organizing!

NEW SPRING/SUMMER IDEA BOOK IS HERE!

2011-02-05T12:55:00.001-07:00

I am so excited! The new CTMH Spring/Summer 2011 Idea Book is here and is jam packed with beautiful products. There is a new format for the idea books. They will only be released two times per year, but the book is bigger and filled with more items. Also, to make things simpler, ordering is available from the current idea book and the one just previous to it only. So now you don't have to wonder if a product is discontinued or not.

Click on the link CTMH Spring/Summer 2011 Idea Book to check it out! If you see anything you like, please email me: cropnkathy@gmail.com to place your order OR if you want to earn some free products, email me to host a party. Either way you don't want to miss out on this new idea book - it is filled with great ideas and many must have new products. Enjoy!

CTMH Spring/Summer 2011 Idea Book

Thank You

2011-01-21T11:53:00.000-07:00

I am determined to paper craft more often and have the goal to post at least once per week. This particular post is a swap spoiler, but since we are all going to be receiving different cards and not necessarily one of everyone's I thought I would share. This was a fun card to make as I was focused on layers, distressing and stamping. The thank you background was actually stamped as one image, even though it is composed of several different images. I just put them on a large acrylic block and played around with placement until I got the look I wanted. I can't wait to see what the other ladies have created. Thanks for looking!

Another Canvas Project

2011-01-12T14:21:00.001-07:00

This post is similar to the last canvas project I created, but I just had to post it as I think it turned out so well. Almost all supplies were CTMH. The distressing technique works beautifully with the CTMH papers and was very easy to do on the canvas. **An adhesive tip for working with canvas: score tape & tombow aqua (liquid adhesive) work awesomely to adhere paper and chipboard. To adhere the heavier 3D items (and paper flowers), I found that Zots 3D ultra strength dots worked amazingly well. Be careful though and make sure you plan ahead because once you attach your item it is super difficult to move and will most likely leave some damage (don't ask how I know this). I made the canvas below for my mom's birthday. Thanks for looking!

Time Flies

2011-01-12T13:32:00.001-07:00

Happy New Year fellow bloggers, friends and of course family. Wow! I don't know where the time has gone, but I see it has been a month since I last posted. Too busy creating I guess! :) With all the cold, blizzardy weather there has been lots to do, but things have finally settled down and hopefully life will settle back into some sort of routine. I would like to share some teacher gifts that I thought turned out kind of cool and my boys' teachers just loved. I have wanted to try doing an altered glass jar for a long time and this was the perfect opportunity. I made treat jars using all CTMH products. They were a bit time consuming as this was my first go at it (and I was having a tough time with one of the lids because of it's green color - but my son insisted on that jar!). Even though it took awhile they were fun to do and of course, now my kids think that they should each have one for their rooms. Hah! Good luck with that my little beauties! Hope you enjoy the candy jars!

Canvas Project

2010-12-11T19:12:00.004-07:00

Hello everyone out there in Blogland! I simply couldn't wait to share this project with you. I am not sure that the pictures do it justice, but there they are nonetheless. For the second week in a row, I would like to thank Katie from Scrapbookers Cabin for this awesome awesome project. Katie is a wonderful instructor and if you live in the Spruce Grove area you should pop in for a class from her. Anyhoo, Katie taught us how to make this beautiful canvas along with the adorable flowers that are on the canvas. I know, I can't believe I made those flowers either. I will definitely want to make another canvas project soon as this was a lot of fun. Thanks again for the great class Katie and to Barb for all the laughs. Have a good weekend all!

Wooden Stocking Banner Project

2010-12-08T12:41:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday I took a class at Scrapbookers Cabin in Spruce Grove. The project was to make the wooden stocking banner that is pictured below. Thank you Katie for coming up with such a great project. Besides a lot of painting, sanding, inking and distressing, I enjoyed a lot of laughs with fellow classmates Barb, Adele and Lorraine. The project really was a lot of fun to put together. Laughter really is good for the soul! Thanks for the great day everyone and THANK YOU mom for looking after the kidlets so I could attend the class.

Using up scraps!

2010-12-08T12:01:00.002-07:00

As I madly work through Christmas cards and projects, I decided to take a break and create some mini 3 x 3 cards. These are always so fun to make and are quick and easy. I made these using leftover paper scraps from Grace Level II CTMH paper and mystickease. Enjoy and now back to the holiday papercrafting madness (which I have to say I am thoroughly loving).

MORE YUMMY BLOG CANDY!

2010-11-15T14:00:00.000-07:00

The Latte Lounge

Click on the above link for a chance at more blog candy which inludes copic markers - wooooohoooo!

Blog candy includes:
12 yummy, yummy Copic Cioa's,
My Little Yellow Bicycle Christmas line: 6 PP's, 6 cardstock, Banner stickers, canvas stickers, glitter rubons,
Envelope album making kit.
Making Memories advent calendar kit.
Copic color chart.
Shortcake "Merci" stamp.
Martha Stewart Maple Leaf punch.

Don't forget to visit by Dec. 1, 2010. Thanks for the chance to win such a cool prize!

AWESOME BLOG CANDY!

2010-11-15T13:45:00.000-07:00

The Stamping Boutique - Blog Candy!

Click on the above link to take you to the Stamping Boutique. This is a very cool website that I discovered today while looking for card making ideas. The blog candy will be randomly drawn for on November 20, 2010.
Blog candy includes:
Creative Imaginations "Card Making for Dummies" Greeting card kit,
Spellbinders nestabilities, Making Memories Advent Calendar kit,
My Little bicycle PP's, cardstock, 10 things pockets, specialty tags, canvas specialty tags chipboard slider and "Merci" shortcake stamp.

Happy Birthday Dad!

2010-11-11T16:26:00.005-07:00

Here is a birthday card I made for my dad using all CTMH products. The majority of materials came from "Good Times" paper or myStickease. Enjoy and let me know what you think.

Blog Candy from The Daily Marker Blog!

2010-11-05T09:50:00.001-06:00

I just discovered this awesome blog and wanted to share it with you. This is one talented lady and her cards are beautiful and such an inspiration. As luck would have it, she is giving away some amazing blog candy! If you are interested, click on the link below or the picture on my sidebar. You need to hurry because you only have until November 8th to get your name in for a chance at the wonderful prize being offered.

Daily Marker blog candy

Have a wonderful Friday!

New Cards!!

2010-10-30T15:08:00.014-06:00

Good day everyone! I am very excited to share some new cards I made at a copic markers class at Scrapbooker's Paradise in RedDeer a couple of days ago. It was a class on coloring technique for hair & skin using blending with copic markers. The cards were all designed by Laura Fredrickson with just a few tweaks here and there for my style. I can't wait to practice my newly learned skills and make some more cards . . . perhaps this time with a festive spirit to reflect the upcoming holiday season. Thanks for stopping by.

Certified Copic Designer

2010-10-27T12:48:00.005-06:00

I just had to share the news that I am now officially a certified copic designer! Just another passion to add to my continually growing list in the stamping and scrapbooking world. If you don't know what copic markers are, you will have to check them out. They are bar none the best marker out there for blending, shading etc. They are an alcohol based marker and are so fun to use. As others have warned me previously, I shall also warn you . . . "Once you start, it is addictive and hard to stop." Below is a halloween card that I made using copics to color the pumpkin. Enjoy and stay tuned for more artwork to come.

CARING HEARTS CARD DRIVE

2010-10-23T08:12:00.002-06:00

Good day all! Today I came across a really cool blog with a very worthy card drive. Please click on the link to check it out and please try to participate if you are able.

Take care and happy card making. You have until November 15th to get your cards sent in!

Caring Hearts Card Drive

Summer is here!

2010-07-05T12:07:00.000-06:00

Summer is here and I once again have time to create. Stay tuned for some new creations shortly.

Xmas Card Workshop

2009-11-23T23:00:00.001-07:00

I just finished preparing my xmas card workshop for the weekend and thought I would share the results. Overall, I am pretty pleased. In this card making workshop you create 8 cards from one piece of colored cardstock and one random stamped cardstock. It is a pretty simple design, with lots of room for creativity. This is the first random stamped card set I have ever made. Hope you enjoy them!

Ms. Holiday Cheer Card

2009-11-20T10:00:00.004-07:00

I have been sick for the last week, so was very happy that I had some energy yesterday afternoon to do some laundry and play with a very cool stamp set by CTMH - Ms. Holiday Cheer. I can't wait to make more cards with her. Of course, me being the pink lover that I am, had to try a holiday card using non-traditional colors. Let me know what you think!

Thank You Cards

2009-11-14T20:13:00.001-07:00

Today I had an hour to make some long awaited thank you cards. I used card bases from a CTMH card kit and then embellished with ribbon, flowers, stamps and the my stickease that came with the bases. It is hard to tell in the photos, but there is glitter on the white flower and around the diamond shape on the second card. The color is a little off from what they really are, but sometimes my photography is not the best. Hope you enjoy them!

Recipe Album

2009-11-08T01:47:00.002-07:00

Wow! A finished project (well almost) - I just need to add the recipes. I decided that I wanted to preserve recipes from my grandmothers' to pass on to my daughter some day. The album below is the project that I have created. It is a chipboard album kit from Bo Bunny, which of course I made changes to suit my own style.

My Scrapbook Room

2009-11-04T13:49:00.001-07:00

I finished my scrapbook space this summer and many people have asked me to share pictures of it. Thank you to my sweetheart Dean for building this room for me. I truly love this space and find that it makes me instantly happy everytime I walk into it. For those of you that do not like pink, I am warning you to put on some sunshades as it is bright - but that is one of the reasons I love it! I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!

Halloween Card

2009-10-20T12:02:00.005-06:00

Well I am home with 2 sick kids today, so what better excuse than to create something while they sleep. :)

Hope you enjoy my quick little halloween card!

Starting My Blog

2009-10-19T04:54:00.005-06:00

Well I am finally entering the blog world. I have been resisting learning about this bit of technology, but it appears that the time has come for me to do some more learning. Thank you Karine for being an inspiration to me and a great friend! It is your blog that has given me the push I needed to try something new. To all others, I will use the blog mainly to share cards and layouts that I create. I hope you enjoy my first project that I am posting. It is a birthday card I made for Dean.
Thanks to all my friends for their love and support as I work to further my ambitions in the scrapbook world! :)

Front of Card:

Inside:

Leave a comment if you would like and let me know what you think.