Nuts For Stampin'

$85 Gets it All!

Right now is the very best time to join my team by becoming a Stampin’ Up! Independent Demonstrator. Starting day and clear through August 31, ’09, becoming a Stampin' Up! demonstrator is easier than ever before with the $85 Mini Starter Kit.

The Mini Starter Kit contains the following products:

Item Code	Page #*	Description linked	Retail Value**
115360	118	For All You Do stamp set	$28.95
115658	155	Rich Razzleberry Classic Stampin' Pad	$5.95
115656	155	Melon Mambo Classic Stampin' Pad	$5.95
115659	155	Crushed Curry Classic Stampin' Pad	$5.95
115654	155	Dusty Durango Classic Stampin' Pad	$5.95
115655	155	Bermuda Bay Classic Stampin' Pad	$5.95
115657	155	Soft Suede Classic Stampin' Pad	$5.95
100730	155	Whisper White card stock (8-1/2" x 11")	$7.50
115315	155	In Color assorted card stock (8-1/2" x 11")	$7.95

*All page numbers refer to the 2009-2010 Idea Book & Catalog (IB&C).
**All products may be substituted for like items; see Mini Starter Kit order form for details.

Important Details:

• Mini Starter Kit orders may be submitted through my Stampin’ Up! website Independent Demonstrator Application (IDA) (email me for the code) or mailed to Stampin' Up!'s home office.
• The standard Starter Kit ($199) will continue to be available during this promotional period. On the Online IDA, the promotional Mini Starter Kit will appear as an additional option.
• Recruits who join Stampin' Up! by purchasing the Mini Starter Kit are still eligible for any programs available to a new recruit. This includes but is not limited to the Extra 10 Percent Instant Income offer, Stampin' Start, and the opportunity to purchase a Business Booster Kit. ***
• Recruits who purchase the Mini Starter Kit will receive the same business supplies as those who order the standard Starter Kit. ****
• During the promotional period there will also be a standard Starter Kit incentive for new recruits who choose the standard Starter Kit instead of the Mini Starter Kit; new recruits who choose the standard Starter Kit will receive the following, along with the standard Starter Kit supplies:
  • All six of the new In Color Classic Stampin' Pads
  • One pack of In Color assorted card stock (8-1/2" x 11")

Incentive items have a $43.65 value and are not substitutable.

Mini Starter Kit and standard Starter Kit incentive deadlines:

• Mail-in IDA: Monday, August 31, 2009 (received in the office, not postmarked)
• Online IDA: Monday, August 31, 2009; 11:50 PM (MT)

*** One of the benefits that all demonstrators receive is the monthly Stampin' Up! Stampin' Success magazine, a full color collection of awesome projects and business tips as well as success stories from featured demonstrators. The "SS" magazine has been, from the beginning of my career with Stampin' Up!, one of my most valuable resources. I have kept every single issue since I joined in August of 1996! At the bottom of this post is a picture of the July Stampin' Success magazine cover just to give you an idea of how wonderful the magazine is.

 

**** Also pictured below is page 9 from the 2009-2010 IB&C which shows the contents of the current standard starter kit as well as the scrapbooking add-on kit.

 

OK, I know that's a lot of information, but you may still have questions. If you do, please feel free to ask me. Ready to sign up?! Contact me now!

 

Happy stampin'!

 

Click either picture for the enlarged version.

 

 

 

SUMMER FUN PROMO IN FULL SWING

Happy Summer, everyone! Well, it's almost Summer anyway. At least, it's felt like it here the last couple of weeks. Got a break from the heat today though. Whew!

Just a quick post today. Gotta do it quick 'cuz it's my birthday and my honey, who is actually home today, wants to take me to lunch and help me with some tasks I can't get done on my own.

I know you've probably seen these lists posted all over the internet by now, but I thought I'd post them for you too. I've provided printable versions for you. But first a reminder:

The Summer Fun Hostess Bonus Promotion has two parts: For the month of June, 2009

• Hostesses who hold a $250-$399.99 workshop will receive an additional $20 in hostess free merchandise dollars.
• Hostesses who hold a $400 or more workshop will receive an additional $40 in hostess free merchandise dollars.

Last Chance List of Stampin' Up! Stamp Sets.

Click here for the full printable view. It's a lot easier to read enlarged on your screen at this link.

Accessories Last Chance, Spring/Summer 2009

Click here for a printable list updated June 25th.

Notice: Some of these items are on sale and some are already sold out! I will update as much as possible. Availability is changing constantly. Items are available while supplies last.

There will be NO backorders or restocking.

Page	Item #	Product Description	Price	Discount	Sale Price
153	111352	CARD STOCK BAJA BREEZE 8-12 X 11	5.5
153	111346	CARD STOCK IN COLOR 12 X 12	8.95
153	111347	CARD STOCK IN COLOR 8-1/2 X 11	7.95
153	111353	CARD STOCK KIWI KISS 8-1/2 X 11	5.5
153	108590	CARD STOCK NATURALS ASST 12X12	8.95
153	111350	CARD STOCK PACIFIC POINT 8-1/2 X 11	5.5
153	111351	CARD STOCK PINK PIROUETTE 8-1/2 X 11	5.5
153	111348	CARD STOCK RIDING HOOD RED 8-1/2 X 11	5.5
153	111349	CARD STOCK TANGERINE TANGO 8-1/2 X 11	5.5
153	111345	CARD STOCK TEXTURED IN COLOR 12 X 12	11.95
153	111844	CLASSIC STAMPIN INK REFILL BAJA BREEZE	2.95
153	111842	CLASSIC STAMPIN INK REFILL KIWI KISS	2.95
153	111840	CLASSIC STAMPIN INK REFILL PACIFIC POINT	2.95
153	111843	CLASSIC STAMPIN INK REFILL PINK PIROUETTE	2.95
153	111839	CLASSIC STAMPIN INK REFILL RIDING HOOD RED	2.95
153	111841	CLASSIC STAMPIN INK REFILL TANGEIRNE TANGO	2.95
153	111833	CLASSIC STAMPIN PAD BAJA BREEZE	5.95
153	111835	CLASSIC STAMPIN PAD KIWI KISS	5.95
153	111837	CLASSIC STAMPIN PAD PACIFIC POINT	5.95
153	111838	CLASSIC STAMPIN PAD PINK PIROUETTE	5.95
153	111836	CLASSIC STAMPIN PAD RIDINGHOOD RED	5.95
153	111834	CLASSIC STAMPIN PAD TANGERINE TANGO	5.95
156	110730	DIE CUTS POCKETS & PIECES	8.95	0.25	6.71
156	113991	TASTE OF TEXTILES	9.95	0.25	7.46
157	105143	DAYS TO REMEMBER 6X6 FR	9.95	0.5	4.98
157	107288	ENVELOPE WHISPER WHITE EXTRA LG	5.5
157	100900	GIFT SACKS WHITE	2.95
157	112139	NOTES CAROUSEL II	11.95	0.25	8.96
157	111337	NOTES GIFT ASSORTMENT II	9.95
157	111336	NOTES SCALLOP II	11.95	0.25	8.96
157	111338	NOTES TEXTURED LOVE ASSORTMENT II	12.95	0.25	9.71
158	113993	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER SPECIALTY PARISIAN BREEZE	11.95
158	114039	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER SPECIALTY ROCKABILLY	11.95
158	114037	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER SPECIALTY SWEET SLUMBER	11.95
159	112041	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER BELLA ROSE	9.95
159	113980	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER CANDY LANE	9.95	0.25	7.46
159	112157	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER PATTERNS BAJA BREEZE	9.95
159	112161	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER PATTERNS KIWI KISS	9.95
159	112150	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER PATTERNS PACIFIC POINT	9.95
159	112156	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER PATTERNS PINK PIROUETTE	9.95
159	112155	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER PATTERNS RIDING HOOD RED	9.95
159	112153	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER PATTERNS TANGERINE TANGO	9.95
159	112042	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER URBAN GARDEN	9.95
160	113981	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER BELLA BIRDS	9.95
160	113966	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER GOOD MORNING SUNSHINE	9.95
160	112464	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER MANCHESTER	9.95
160	112471	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER RAINBOW SHERBET	9.95
160	113975	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER RASPBERRY TART	9.95
161	112468	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER SWEET ALWAYS	9.95
161	113978	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER URBAN OASIS	9.95
161	112461	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER WASHINGTON APPLE	9.95
162	112054	SIMPLY SCRAPPIN BEST EVER	19.95
163	113936	SIMPLY SCRAPPIN HOPPY MEMORIES	19.95
164	112179	SIMPLY SCRAPPIN LOVE STORIES	19.95
164	113911	SIMPLY SCRAPPIN SUNSHINE GARDEN	19.95
164	113925	SIMPLY SCRAPPIN SWEET NOTHINGS	19.95
165	113943	SIMPLY SCRAPPIN 2 SWEET	19.95
165	112172	SIMPLY SCRAPPIN ROCK A BYE BOY	19.95
165	112165	SIMPLY SCRAPPIN ROCK A BYE GIRL	19.95
170	109231	SIMPLY SENT CARD KIT SENDING HAPPY THOUGHTS	54.95
171	114605	SIMPLY SENT CARD KIT MORE THOUGHTS	42.95
172	113887	RUB ONS BRIGHT DELIGHTS	11.95	0.25	8.96
172	111416	RUB ONS CHATEAU BELLA	10.95	0.25	8.21
172	113884	RUB ONS FASHION DISTRICT	10.95	0.25	8.21
172	111414	RUB ONS HIDDEN GARDEN	10.95	0.5	5.48
173	111277	RUB ONS A PERFECT DAY	10.95	0.25	8.21
173	111415	RUB ONS GREATEST MOMENTS	10.95	0.25	8.21
173	113888	RUB ONS MANY OCCASIONS	10.95	0.5	5.48
175	114351	DESIGNER HARDWARE HOORAY	4.95	0.5	2.48
175	114350	DESIGNER HARDWARE SOHO	4.95	0.5	2.48
176	112092	BUTTON BOUQUET	7.95	0.25	5.96
176	114338	COURDUROY BUTTONS KIWI KISS	9.95	0.5	4.98
176	114341	COURDUROY BUTTONS PACIFIC POINT	9.95	0.5	4.98
177	113979	ACCENTS & ELEMENTS CANVAS CUTS	7.95	0.5	3.98
177	114019	ACCENTS & ELEMENTS FLEURETTES	9.95	0.5	4.98
177	112006	ACCENTS & ELEMENTS FLOWER FUSION II	14.95
178	111847	RIBBON DOUBLE STITICHED BAJA BREEZE 1"	8.95	0.25	6.71
178	111375	RIBBON GROSGRAIN STRIPED BAJA BREEZE 5/8"	9.95	0.25	7.46
178	111370	RIBBON GROSGRAIN STRIPED PACIFIC POINT 5/8"	9.95	0.25	7.46
178	111373	RIBBON GROSGRAIN STRIPED PINK PIROUETTE 5/8"	9.95	0.25	7.46
178	111374	RIBBON GROSGRAIN STRIPED RIDING HOOD RED 5/8"	9.95	0.25	7.46
178	111371	RIBBON GROSGRAIN STRIPED TANGERINE TANGO 5/8"	9.95	0.25	7.46
178	111372	RIBBON GROSGRIAN STRIPED KIWI KISS 5/8"	9.95	0.25	7.46
178	114317	RIBBON ORIGINALS DRESS UP	12.95	0.5	6.48
178	114316	RIBBON ORIGINALS PIG TAILS	13.95	0.5	6.98
178	114318	RIBBON ORIGINALS VALET	12.95	0.25	9.71
179	101259	HEMP TWINE BLACK	2.95	0.5	1.48
179	102875	HEMP TWINE RED	2.95	0.5	1.48
179	111363	RIBBON GROSGRAIN PINK PIROUETTE 1 1/4"	7.95	0.25	5.96
179	111364	RIBBON POLY TWILL SO SAFFRON 7/8"	8.95	0.5	4.48
179	111879	RIBBON SATIN KIWI KISS VERY VANILLA	7.95	0.25	5.96
179	111365	RIBBON TAFFETA RIDING HOOD RED	6.95	0.25	5.21
181	112010	DIE CUTS BLOOMS AGAIN	8.95	0.25	6.71
181	113950	DIE CUTS BUILD-A-FAIRYTALE	8.95
181	105668	TATTOO KIT I	13.95
181	105669	TATTOO KIT II	13.95
184	109044	PUNCH SNOW BLOSSOM	10.95	0.5	5.48
184	107272	PUNCH KEY TAG	15.95	0.25	11.96
188	102264	COLUZZLE STARTER KIT	19.95
188	104310	CRAFTERS TOOL KIT	39.95
190	109123	STAMPIN WRITE JOURNALER BASIC BROWN	3.25
190	106961	STAZON REFILL WHITE	4.95	0.5	2.48
190	101399	STIPPLE BRUSHES	6.95	0.25	5.21
204	109684	Doodle	8.5
204	111257	Happy, Happy Birthday	8.5
204	109687	See You Around	8.5
204	109683	So Swirly	8.5
204	111260	Something Fishy	8.5
204	111262	Stems & Silhouettes	8.5
205	111253	Blooms & Bulbs	6.5
205	109692	Love	6.5
205	109568	My ABCs	6.5
205	109682	Perfectly Pretty	6.5
205	105516	Watercolor Joy	6.5

Watch for my samples featuring some of the new items from the 2009-2010 Idea Book/Catalog. As a demonstrator, I got to pre-order a few items. Woo Hoo!

OK, I gotta go for now. Have a great day! Michelle

 

 

SIZZLING "SUMMER FUN" SPECIAL

Beginning June 1st, Stampin' Up! is celebrating one of the most enjoyable times of the year with the Summer Fun Campaign. Spend time this summer doing what you love with family and friends - host a workshop (or several workshops!) during June and July and take advantage of all the great offers that are coming your way.

Among other exciting offers, the Summer Fun Campaign will include:

• Last Chance list (formerly the Retired list) to be released June 1st!
• Release of the 2009-2010 Idea Book & Catalog (back to annual catalog)
• Country Living Summer Cookout Kit (mid-June through August)

The 2009-2010 Idea Book & Catalog will debut in July, but you can earn extra hostess benefits during June.

June 1-30, 2009, the Summer Fun Hostess Bonus Promotion details:

• Hostesses with a $250-$399.99 workshop will receive an additional $20 in hostess free merchandise dollars.
• Hostesses with a $400 or more workshop will receive an additional $40 in hostess free merchandise dollars.
• These additional hostess benefitsapply to workshop orders, book parties and online orders!
• Use your additional hostess benefitsto order from any current catalog - Spring/Summer '09, Occasions '09, Decor Elements III, Celebrando Creativitdad. Click here to see the awesome collection of current Stampin' Up! catalogs online. Click here to see the dormant list of items not in any catalog, but still available. Or click here to place an order on my Stampin' Up! website.

 

REMINDER: Today and tomorrow - last chance to get a FREE pack of Designer Series papers and/or the sneak peek promo of 20% off the brand new Jumble Alphabet stamp set. Click here for details.

QUESTIONS? Contact me anytime!

 

STAMPIN' UP! ON YOU TUBE!

OK, so you've probably noticed that I have been pretty inactive lately in posting to this blog. That's because I have been so busy with my other business, "It's in the Bag". I got involved in my other business by the prodding of my husband and it has become much more than I ever imagined. I'm having a lot of fun with it. Please check it out! You just might find a handbag or some handmade jewelry you just have to have. The handbags are designer inspired, yet they have KMart prices.  

I have not forgotten about my paper crafting. Far from it. In fact I really miss spending time creating and sharing. For now, I HAVE to share this awesome website with you. It's Stampin' Up!'s videos on YouTube. They currently have 9 videos, in addition to those you'll see on my Stampin' Up! website, and they are all terrific. The videos feature Shelli Garden, owner/CEO of Stampin' Up!, as well as some of the demonstrator trainers from Stampin' Up! corporate. Take a few minutes to visit Stampin' Up!'s videos on YouTube for some inspiration on your next paper crafting projects.

Have questions? Want to order something they demonstrate? Contact me any time!

AND THE WINNER IS . . .

My loyal customer Lee VP is the winner of my latest 50/50 Club!

Every one of my stampin' friends who places an order of $50 or more is entered into my 50/50 Club drawing. Actually, every $50 ordered qualifies for an entry into the 50/50 Club - order $100, earn 2 squares, etc. Lee, like any other 50/50 Club winner, gets to select $50 in FREE merchandise as her gift. I can hardly wait to see what Lee selects for her $50 of FREE Stampin' Up! merchandise!

Want to have the opportunity to win $50 of FREE Stampin' Up! merchandise? Simply place an order of $50 or more and you'll automatically be entered to win - 1 entry per $50 ordered. Click here to see the chart. If you order online, I'll fill in your squares for you. If you order at one of my local parties, you get to fill it in yourself.

Obviously, the more your order, the more chances you have to win. But, even 1 order of $50 qualifies you for the drawing and could win you FREE merchandise. There will be a drawing, by an objective party, for every 50 squares filled in.

Ready to order some wonderful Stampin' Up! products off your wish list? Simply visit my Stampin' Up! website and click on "SHOP NOW" or contact me to place your order.

QUESTIONS? Feel free to contact me anytime!

3 PROMOS 4 NATIONAL SCRAPBOOKING MONTH

EXCITING NEWS! Besides the 2 specials announced in this previous post, Stampin' Up! is offering an amazingly special price on a demonstrator starter kit especially for scrapbooking.

Limited-Time Scrapbooking Starter Kit

Start your own business for as little as $75 with the limited-time Scrapbooking Starter Kit. The Scrapbooking Starter Kit contains the following: Schoolbook Serif Alphabet stamp set Simply Scrappin' Petal Party Earth Elements Assorted textured card stock (12" x 12") Whisper White Craft Stampin' Pad In addition, this specially-priced Starter Kit contains all the business supplies found in the regular-priced Starter Kit. View the National Scrapbooking Month sales flyer for more information on all of these special promotions. Or visit my Online Store to shop now! QUESTIONS? CONTACT ME ANYTIME! CLICK ON BELOW PICTURE TO ENLARGE

Stampin' Up!'s Promo 4 National Scrapbooking Month, 2009

May 1-31, 2009 Stampin' Up! is celebrating National Scrapbooking Month by offering a terrific special on Designers Series papers and 12x12 textured card stock as well as giving a 20% discount on their new Jumble Alphabet, a sneak peek from the upcoming Fall/Winter Idea Book/Catalog.

Here's the details:

1. Buy three packs of Designer Series paper (including our Specialty Designer Series paper) or 12" x 12" textured card stock, and get one FREE!
2. Buy a sneak peek stamp set from the 2009-2010 Idea Book & Catalog--Jumble Alphabet (set of 52; double-mounted)--at a 20 percent discount. Click here to see the new Jumble Alphabet set. It's really fun and funky.

Item #	Description	Regular Price	Sale Price
115199	Jumble Alphabet stamp set	$43.95	$35.16

Things to Remember

• All Designer Series paper, Specialty Designer Series papers and 12" x 12" textured card stock are eligible for this promotion.
• You may mix and match your paper choices.
• You may choose a free pack of Designer Series paper or 12" x 12" textured card stock for every three packs you order.
• Order early to avoid back-orders or out-of-stock items.

TO PLACE YOUR ORDER CONTACT ME TODAY OR VISIT MY STAMPIN' UP! WEBSITE TO ORDER ONLINE 24/7, THEN CLICK ON "SHOP NOW".

QUESTIONS? CONTACT ME ANYTIME!

Occasions Mini-catalog Swap

I made a swap card last night for the 2009 Occasions mini-catalog. I chose to use the new "Sense of Time" stamp set but had now clue what colors to use. The set, in my opinion, doesn't lend itself to the bright cheery colors of Spring. (I am so happy it's Spring!) So I went to my notebook containing all sorts of magazine pictures as shown in this post. I decided to use the colors in this picture.  To me this color combo says rich old world design, which is what I think of when I see the images in the sense of time stamp set shown here.   Click on the picture of the set for the full view. (I can't show you the whole mini-catalog until April 1st, so watch for my post that day.

So want to see my swap card? I'm not sure it's finished, but it will have to do for the swap since it's due at the swap hostess's home in a couple days. Maybe I'll add some accessories to my copy after I finish working on my '08 taxes. (Eeeek!) Here is the card for this swap.   Click on the pictures for the enlarged view.  

Here's the recipe: Ink: Riding Hood Red, Basic Black, Sets: Sense of Time, Celebrate Everything, Card stock: Riding Hood Red, Basic Black, Naturals Ivory, Kraft, Misc: SNAIL, Dimensionals, Circle Cutter, Table top cutter, small and large oval and scalloped oval punches, Big Shot w/ Scallop Circle Die.

The scalloped oval punch is also new in the 2009 Occasions mini-catalog. I think it's something you'll love using.

QUESTIONS? CONTACT ME ANYTIME! 

Best Time to Join My Team? NOW!

While anytime is a great time to join my team and the Stampin' Up! family as a demonstrator, joining during Sale-A-Bration is especially rewarding! Right now, during the last days of Sale-a-bration (SAB) 2009, not only is the starter kit discounted 15% and you get any free set of your choice, the "Three Easy Payments" options is currently available. That means you can order and receive your starter kit for your first installment and possibly even have the kit paid for with your first couple of workshops before you're even charged the 2nd and 3rd installments. The 15 % off the starter kit promo is good only through March. The "Three Easy Payments" plan is good only through April.

The regular starter kit price = $199 + tax and the SAB starter kit prce = $169 + tax   Your starter kit paperwork must be receivedby Stampin’ Up! (not postmarked) by March 31, 2009, to qualify for Sale-A-Bration pricing. After Sale-A-Bration, Starter Kit paperwork must be received by April 30, 2009, for regular pricing.

Payments Breakdown for the Sale-A-Bration Starter Kit Price (March 13-31, 2009)

Starter Kit Payment	Payment Charged*	Payment with Stampin' Memories Add-On*
Payment 1 (charged at time kit is entered)	$56.34 (+ sales tax)	$106.34 (+ sales tax)
Payment 2 (charged around April 15th)	$56.33	$56.33
Payment 3 (charged around May 15th)	$56.33	$56.33
Total Payment	$169.00	$219.00

*Payments indicated are for the cost of the Starter Kit, and, if selected, the Stampin' Memories add-on, including shipping. They do not include and any applicable state taxes. (Please note that any applicable taxes for the total amount of the Starter Kit and, if selected, Stampin' Memories add-on, price will be added to the first payment.)

Payments Breakdown for the Regular Starter Kit Price (April 1-30, 2009)

Starter Kit Payment	Payment Charged*	Payment with Stampin' Memories Add-On*
Payment 1 (charged at time kit is entered)	$66.34 (+ sales tax)	$116.34 (+ sales tax)
Payment 2 (charged around May 15th)	$66.33	$66.33
Payment 3 (charged around June 15th)	$66.33	$66.33
Total Payment	$199.00	$249.00

*Payments indicated are for the cost of the Starter Kit and, if selected, the Stampin' Memories add-on, including shipping. They do not include any applicable state taxes. (Please note that any applicable taxes for the total amount of the Starter Kit and, if selected, Stampin' Memories add-on, price will be added to the first payment.)

For more information click here for all the details as outlined on the Stampin' Up! customer website or click here to open the payment plan application form. This option is not available when signing up online. The payment plan form must be mailed to Stampin' Up! along with your demonstrator application and starter kit order form. Please contact me for more information or to sign up before the special pricing and payment plan are things of the past.

Questions? Contact me anytime!

"The Stamper" - This May Sound Familiar

I just had to share this clever poem. I got it from my upline's Yahoo group. I wish I could give credit to the author, but it wasn't given in the email I received. This may sound familiar . . .

If this does sound familiar, I suggest you take advantage of the current discount on the Stampin' Up! Demonstrator starter kit. During Sale-A-Bration, through March 2009, anyone who joins as a demonstrator can choose any stamp set—a value of up to $47.95—from the current Idea Book & Catalog! Plus, new recruits get 15% off the Starter Kit—over $350 of Stampin’ Up! products and business supplies for only $169! Contact me to join my team or visit my Stampin' Up! website and click on "JOIN NOW". Then enter "stamps896" when asked for my code.

 

Join my team and get 2, that's right 2 FREE $25 shopping sprees when you join. This special gift is valid through me only. Enjoy the poem!

THE STAMPER

This might sound familiar.

I started out with just one stamp
and when I bought some more
I decided that a shoebox
would make an ideal store.

Then as I added inks and pens
my stamping collection grew
so I bought a roomy plastic crate
it would last for years, I knew.

Embossing then became my thing
with powders and heat gun,
metallics, tinsels, pearls and clear,
I soon had every one.

By now my lovely plastic crate
was spilling everywhere
and my glitter glue collection
lay scattered on a chair

My husband started muttering
and said things had to stop
So I bought a huge old wardrobe
at the local charity shop.

But after just a little while,
I couldn't shut the door
and I put shelves up in the spare room
To accommodate yet more.

Our house is now for sale,
something larger being sought,
By the way, did I show you
the latest stamp I bought . . .

Author Unknown

QUESTIONS? CONTACT ME ANYTIME! 

Three Easy Payments Starter Kit Option Coming Soon

Woohoo! Exciting news! This just announced by Stampin' Up!

"During economically challenging times, most of us tighten our budgets. Some expenditures that were once comfortable might now stretch a budget thin. We don't want anyone's efforts to budget wisely to become a barrier to joining Stampin' Up, especially considering the wonderful benefits--personal and economical--being a demonstrator can bring. This is why we're working on a Three Easy Payments option for the Starter Kit. For a limited time, with a partial initial payment, a new recruit can receive her Starter Kit and get her business running. Two subsequent monthly payments take care of the rest.  
We'll follow up with details soon, but . . . this option is coming before the end of Sale-A-Bration!"

Take a look at all the great product you'll get to start you new Stampin' Up! business!

Click on the picture for the full view. The Stampin' Up! demonstrator starter kit is always discounted from the "retail value", but it's discounted even more during Sale-a-bration. But that's not the most important thing! It's a lot of terrific current Stampin' Up! product to get your new business venture started at full speed.

To see each of the products, look in your copy of the 2009 Spring/Summer Idea Book/Catalog or visit the Stampin' Up! catalog online. BTW some of the products can be exchanged for something else if you already have them.

To see samples, using each of the products visit the awesome Splitcoaststampers gallery. (You need to join the group, but it's free.)

For more information on the benefits of becoming a Stampin' Up! demonstrator, click here to open the current "recruit brochure". Ready to join my team? Visit my Stampin' Up! website and click on "JOIN NOW". Enter "stamps896" as the password.

Still have question? Contact me anytime! 

Stampin' Supplies/Recipes Here!

In case you hadn't noticed, the Stampin' Supplies/Recipesare no longer in the back of the Stampin' Up! catalogs. Never fear! I have them here! I have added an icon so that you may download the file to your PC for future reference. You might want to save it to a "thumb drive" 'cuz it's not a small file. It's 26 pages including thumbnail pictures of each of the projects in the catalog, so please be patient when downloading it. It will open.

Click here to open the file or look for this icon in my sidebar.  As usual, to order anything you need from this recipe book, simply visit my Stampin' Up! websiteand click on "SHOP NOW" or contact me anytime and I'll be happy to place your order for you. Happy shoppin', 

Don't forget! It's still Sale-a-bration time!

Occasions Mini-Catalog Pre-Ordering for You Too!

Usually, pre-ordering from an upcoming Stampin' Up! catalog is for the SU! demonstrators only. But not this time! You too NOW get to pre-order selected items from the upcoming Occasions Mini-Catalog 2009.

Stampin' Up! wants to give you plenty of time to create your Easter greetings with these sets in the Occasions mini-catalog, so you may order them NOW. Have a look at them! They are so cute! And, you can create lots more than Easter greetings with many of the images in these sets. The "Eight Great Greetings" on page 11 and "Wagon Full of Fun" set on page 13 will be especially versatile. I'm planning a baby card with the darling duck. And of course, the cupcake will make a cute birthday card. Fun! Fun! Simply click on any picture for the enlarged view.        

To order these new Stampin' Up! Occasions 2009 stamp sets or the wheel, or any current Stampin' Up! products for that matter, simply go to my Stampin' Up! website and order online or contact me anytime to place the order for you.

Questions? Please, feel free to contact me anytime.

I'll be getting my pre-order very soon, so watch for samples using these sets! Happy stampin' and paper craftin',

REMINDERS: Sale-a-bration is still on - FREE gift with every $50 ordered through March!

AND you can still get a FREE Spring/Summer 2009 catalog for placing an online order of any size.

More Purse Party Invitations

My friend who is hosting a purse party for me thought of more ladies she'd like to invite. (Please see my other blog for information about my purse party business.) I made 10 more invitations for her, all of them different from the other 30 which I already gave her. I've added photos of them to my Big Shot  and Stampin' Up! photo albums. Here's a couple of the invitations. Cute, huh? Love those rhinestone brads for just a touch of bling!   As before, I used (retired) Stampin' Up! Designer Series Papers and my Big Shot with the Top Note die.

These cards were super fun, quick and easy to create. Give it a try. After cutting the top note, I trimmed the tips of the side points. The scored at 3" from one end and folded it on the score line depending on which DSP pattern I wanted on top or on bottom. Embellish as desired. Really! That's all there is to it.

To order any of the tools/supplies to create some purse cards of your own, visit my Stampin' Up! website to place an online order or contact me anytime.

Happy stampin' and paper craftin',

Big Shot with Top Note Party Invitations - Done!

I finished my 30 purse party invitations. It took me about 2 afternoons and 2  long evenings, figuring out time savers when I was almost done. Making them in so many variations added to the time it took, as compared to doing a swap with all of the cards exactly the same. In these 30 cards, there were very few duplicates so I had to re-figure the embellishments and the background colors virtually for every card to best enhance the Designer Series papers I used - retired scraps.

Visit my Big Shot Samples photo album to see all of the variations. They are all really cute and it's really cool how different they look depending on whether I turn one side of the paper down or the other side for the top flap. BTW I got the idea from a card featured in Mary Brown's blog gallery (currently on page 8, posted Sept 6th). I had to minimalize the card design a bit since I needed to make so many.

Materials and tools used: Big Shot, Top Note die, Designer Series papers, card stock, trims, Flower Fusion 1&2, plain and rhinestone brads, SNAIL, Dimensionals, Glue dots and miscellaneous trims from many years back. Some of the ribbons I saved from our wedding gifts in '94 and even from high school (late 970's) when I wore them in my hair. Yes, I'm a serious pack rat! :-)  I used the Craft & Paper Scissors for cutting all of the trims/ribbons. They are the best thing I have ever used for the purpose. I always get a perfect clean cut with them.

The invitation slip tucked into the pocket of the paper "purse" was computer generated. Click here to open the Word doc of the slip. Next time I have a purse party I may just use cards I already have (from swaps of retired products) and tuck the quarter sheet version inside. I've included the links for the invitation Word docs in case you want to use them as templates for parties of your own for whatever occasion you choose.

To order any materials to create this cute card or any of your paper crafting projects, please visit my website to shop online or contact me anytime.

Have a great weekend, y'all!     

 

My First Big Shot Project

I'm finally using my Big Shot! Woo Hoo! It's so much fun! Below are some pictures of my progression on the invitations I'm making to give to my friend who is hosting a purse party for me. I'll share the finished invitations (lots of variations) and the materials needed to create them ASAP. Click on any picture for the enlarged view.

I'm off to finish the invitations,

 

Valentine Card for My Honey

Whew! I'm finally feeling better after nearly 3 weeks of fighting the worst chest/head cold that I can remember ever having. I hate being sick 'cause my creativity gets congested too. The first thing I chose to make is a card for my husband since tomorrow is Valentine's day - especially since our 14th anniversary was Jan. 29th and I wasn't able to create anything for him for that.

  Here's a scan the card front. I've also uploaded several other shots of the card - opened and some details -  into my Cricut Projects and my Stampin' Up! projects albums. The (retired) "cherish" rub-on  and all of the papers are Stampin' Up!: Textured Riding Hood Red and textured Chocolate Chip, Candy Lane and Riding Hood Red designer series papers. I also used the Stampin' Up! Eyelet Border punch and the Heart to Heart punch. I used my Cricut with George/Basic Shapes cartridge to cut all of the other hearts. I could have used the Full Heart Punch for all of the medium sized hearts (striped center front heart and inside), but I used the Cricut so I could shadow them using Chocolate Chip. This card was a lot of fun to make and my husband lovesit. I have to mention though that I got the general design from the latest Cricut Chirp newsletter. (In case you belong to the Cricut Community, here's the link to the card that was my inspiration.) I put my own spin on the card. Oh, the stamp I used inside I bought probably 12 years ago and I have no clue who it's by or where I got it.

OK, that's it for now. Happy stampin' and paper crafting, Michelle

New Technique Video on My Website!

OMGosh!  I love Stampin' Up! and how they make it easy for me to share some of the most adorable paper crafting projects. I now have a new Big Shot projects video on my Stampin' Up! website. Click here to go straight to that new video. You'll see how to use the Big Shot to create a great card, gift packaging and scrapbooking.

Not only will you see how to create these great projects, but there's a list of all the supplies used to create them. While you're there at my website, you can order any of those or other products quick and easy. Simply click on the SHOP NOW button.

Remember, while supplies last, Stampin' Up! is including a FREE 2009  Spring/Summer Idea Book/Catalog with every online order (of any size) placed during Sale-a-bration, which is now through March, 2009. For every $50 ordered, you'll get your choice of any of the Sale-a-bration products.

  Because I've been too sick to get anything made since I got my new catalog and SAB products, I'd like to share a project created by a friend who is one of the most creative Stampin' Up! demonstrators that I know, Patty Bennett. Here's a Big Shot sample she just shared with our upline's Yahoo group. Click on the picture for an enlarged view. To see more of Patty's beautiful creations, visit her gorgeous blog.

Now that I am feeling about 95% back to myself, WATCH MY BLOG for creative projects of my own. You can subscribe to my postings simply by entering your e-address in one of the two places in my sidebars.

OK, I'm off to get some creating done. Happy stampin' and paper crafting!

Classes Coming!

Please be patient with me. I've been really sick with a head/chest cold since January 25th. I'm not sneezing anymore, but my head/chest are still so congested that my creative juices just aren't flowing. I'm really foggy. All of my new Stampin' Up! Designer Series papers and stamp sets, etc. are calling my name and saying "come play with me!" I wish I could! Soon!

Anyway, I am planning lots of classes - brainstorming ideas - that I'll offer ASAP. I am still compiling my list of ideas for my upcoming classes. Click here to see my brainstorming so far. This is, by no means, an all inclusive, exhaustive list of the ideas I have rolling around in my brain. Pray I get well soon!

In the meantime - have a look through the new catalog. Click here or ask me about getting a copy of your own.

Have something you want me to teach you? Email me with your requests!

SALE-A-BRATION IS HERE! Also, get a free catalog!

  Woo hoo! It's finally Sale-a-bration time! Click on the photo to open the Sale-a-bration mini-catalog.

Click here for outlined details from a previous post or read about the promotion in the mini-catalog.

Also, beginning today when you place any size online order, Stampin' Up! will be include a FREE Spring/Summer 2009 Idea Book & Catalog in the first 22,000 orders or through March, whichever comes first.

Click here to start shopping. Then click on "SHOP NOW" in the upper right-hand corner just under my name and contact info.

Questions? Contact me anytime!

Got My Order! Woo! Hoo!

I'm just like you . . . I get excited like it's Christmas or my birthday when I get my Stampin' Up! orders - especially from a newly released catalog like the 2009 Spring Summer Idea Book/Catalog. Even though Sale-a-bration is coming up February 1st, I just couldn't wait to place my first order from the new catalog. I got my order today and here's a peek at what I got. Click on the picture to enlarge it.  I got some new sets, new some Big Shot dies and Texturz, new Designer Series Papers, the new Circle Cutter, the new Eyelet Border punch and more!

Even though I'm super excited to get my order, due to a bad cold, all I think I'll have energy for today is to assemble my stamp sets. I'll post some new samples as soon as I'm able to stay awake and stop coughing. Not whining! I just can't be creative feeling this way.

Hope you all have avoided and continue to avoid all the cooties floating around this time of year. Happy stampin' and paper crafting, Michelle

PS Hope you like my new background music. So far I've only included Mercy Me's music. Love their work! Not wanting to listen to my music? Simply click on pause on the music dashboard at the bottom right sidebar.

LOTS of "Love You Much" Samples

Anyone who knows me well knows that I'm not usually one for lots of hearts and cute motifs, but I have to admit that I really have enjoyed all of the samples I've seen using the stamps, punch and Design Series Paper (DSP) included in the "Love You Much" Bundle. This promotion offers the included products at 20% off what they would normally cost. You have through January to take advantage of this great deal.

For your inspiration, I have gathered nearly 100 samples from various demonstrators into an online album in my "Shutterfly" account. Each of the samples have used the "Love You Much" stamp set, the "Heart to Heart" punch and/or the "Candy Lane" DSP. Most of the samples have the demonstrator's watermark so they get the credit they are due. If you have questions about any of the samples, I may be able to answer for you. If not, you should be able to Google the demonstrator's name in their watermark.

Click here or on the photo above to gain access to my "Love You Much" Shutterfly online photo album. If the link doesn't work, email me and I'll send you an invitation to the album.

Note: Now that I have decided to no longer offer classes at JoAnn's, I'll be able to focus my energies on being creative with my Stampin' Up! products and offering my customers and readers more inspiration than I did in the past year. Between Stampin' Up!, JoAnn's and It's In the Bag, I had too many irons in the fire and couldn't do justice to any of my endeavors. I am so looking forward to being able to focus better this year!

Questions? Contact me anytime.

Sale-a-bration is Coming SOON!

Yes! It's almost that time of year! If you are on my mailing list, you should have gotten your copy of the Sale-a-bration mini-catalog by now. I love the Sale-a-bration Freebie products and this year's Freebies are no exception.

If you are a new Stampin' Up! enthusiast, you may not know about Sale-a-bration (SAB). SAB is when Stampin' Up! rewards customers, hostesses and demonstrators alike. Please note: SU! will not allow posting the mini-catalog until Feb. 1st. You may email me and I'll send your the pdf SAB mini-catalog. For now, please see the outlined details below.

Promotion Dates: February 1 through March 31, 2009

Promotion Details: The annual Stampin' Up! Sale-A-Bration (SAB) promotion gives everyone reason to celebrate!

Customers:Receive a free Sale-A-Bration product (stamp set or designer series paper) for every $50 purchased. Eg. purchase $100 and get 2 Free SAB products of your choice.

Hostesses:Receive a free Sale-A-Bration product with a $300 or more workshop, in addition to the normal hostess benefits.

Recruits:You get to choose any retail stamp set (a value up to $47.95) from the current catalog when you sign up to be an SU! demonstrator during SAB. Click here to sign up! Then click on "JOIN NOW" in the up right-hand corner of the page, just under my name and contact info.

Contact me now 1) to schedule your SAB workshop; 2) if you have questions about SAB or 3) if you have questions about anything related to stamping or Stampin' Up!

NEW CATALOG IS HERE!

Yahoooo! The new Stampin' Up! Spring/Summer 2009 Idea Book/Catalog is now available! I have received my supply order and I have marked dozens of pages for my wish list. I know it's hard to believe, but Stampin' Up! has once again out done themselves.

Beginning February first, with any size of an online order you place, Stampin' Up! will be offering a FREE Idea Book & Catalog with the first 22,000 orders or until April 30, 2009, whichever comes first. Click here to start shopping and have your order decided so you can be one of the first to get a FREE catalog with your order starting February first.

OR . . . if you can't wait until February first to order new products and/or to get your copy of the new catalog contact me now. If you hosted a workshop or placed a book party order with me in the last 6 months, I have a free copy for you. If you have not recently submitted a workshop/book party with me, I'll be happy to send you a copy at my cost of $8 - covering the catalog and the shipping. Your $8 will be credited to you when you place a book party or host a workshop with me while the catalog is valid. But, you must place your order through me/my website to get your $8 credited.

Questions! Contact me anytime!

Inventory Blow Out - Up to 50% Off!

Wow! That's huge! Through January 18th, you can get up to 50% off selected Stampin' Up! accessories: some current, some retiring and some previously retired. See below for the entire list. Click here for a printable version of the list or click here to shop now. One of the items on sale is the Styled Silver Hodgepodge Hardware kit. The fun items included in this kit can be used for all sorts of things. One of the more unusual projects you can make with the Stampin' Up! hardware kits custom is jewelry. Here's a beautiful sample shown in the January 2009 Stampin' Up! demonstrator only Stampin' Success Magazine. Contact me for details on this lovely pendant and to order the supplies to create one of your own or to give as a gift.

For the list of the of the current Stampin' Up! accessories that will be retiring on January 18th, click here. Check your wish listfor any of these items as they will not be available to order beginning January 19th when the Stampin' Up! 2009 Spring/Summer Idea Book/Catalog is released.

Items retiring from the Fall-Winter 2008 Idea Book & Catalog: Each item has been linked to the online ordering page for that item.

Item	Page	Description	Regular Price	Discount Price
109190	180	On Board 9" x 9" clipboard	$7.95	$5.99
107925	181	On Board Bitty Book	$9.95	$6.99
105384	183	Mellow Moss 6" x 6" Linen Post album	$19.95	$14.99
105381	183	Real Red 6" x 6" Linen Post album	$19.95	$14.99
103977	187	Bold Bright buttons	$6.95	$4.99
104389	188	Double Circle punch	$5.95	$4.49
114447	n/a	Country Living Holiday Collection Stampin' Kit	$49.95	$24.98

*Items available while supplies last; page numbers refer to the Fall-Winter 2008 Idea Book & Catalog

Retired items from the Spring-Summer 2008 Idea Book & Catalog:

Item	Page	Description	Regular Price	Discount Price
109013	163	Blue Bayou Classic Stampin' Pad	$5.25	$3.99
109012	163	Groovy Guava Classic Stampin' Pad	$5.25	$3.99
109011	163	Purely Pomegranate Classic Stampin' Pad	$5.25	$3.99
109010	163	River Rock Classic Stampin' Pad	$5.25	$3.99
109009	163	Soft Sky Classic Stampin' Pad	$5.25	$3.99
109014	163	Wild Wasabi Classic Stampin' Pad	$5.25	$3.99
109179	178	On Board Ginormous Pieces	$14.95	$10.99
109189	190	Beachfront Ribbon Originals	$12.95	$7.99
109187	190	District Ribbon Originals	$12.95	$7.99
109188	190	Fairy Tale Ribbon Originals	$12.95	$8.49
109185	190	Jersey Ribbon Originals	$12.95	$8.99
109184	190	Sherbet Ribbon Originals	$12.95	$8.99
109186	190	Theater Ribbon Originals	$12.95	$8.49
109062	191	River Rock double-stitched ribbon	$8.95	$6.49
110716	191	Wild Wasabi striped grosgrain ribbon	$7.95	$5.49

*Items available while supplies last; page numbers refer to the Spring-Summer 2008 Idea Book & Catalog

Current products appearing in the upcoming Spring-Summer 2009 Idea Book & Catalog:

Item	Page	Description	Regular Price	Discount Price
111349	162	Tangerine Tango 8-1/2" x 11" card stock	$5.50	$4.49
111345	162	In Color (2008-2009) 12" x 12" textured card stock	$11.95	$8.99
109110	185	Fire Circle Rhinestone brads	$10.95	$7.99
109112	185	Fire Square Rhinestone brads	$10.95	$7.99
109113	185	Ice Square Rhinestone brads	$10.95	$7.99
111325	185	Styled Silver Hodgepodge Hardware	$29.95	$22.49
112454	185	Styled Vanilla Hodgepodge Hardware	$29.95	$22.49
113451	n/a	20th Anniversary Embosslits die	$11.95	$9.49

*Quantities at reduced price are limited; page numbers refer to the Fall-Winter 2008 Idea Book & Catalog 

Paper Gift Bow Using DSP

Check out these pretty gift wrapping bows I made using Stampin' Up! Designer Series Papers from the Holiday Mini-catalog on page 15. Actually, I used the 6" x 1" strips that came in the Star Bright Designer Series Paper Ornaments. Click on the picture for an enlarged view.

I got the instructions for the bow design from Split Coast Stampers (SCS). If you don't already get their weekly newsletter, you'll want to subscribe. Click here for the free tutorial I've made into a Word doc, or click here for the online tutorial found at the SCS website. I did something a little different when assembling the blue/green bow on the left of the picture. I used a mini-stapler to hold the ends together of each strip. Then I used Stampin' Dimensionals to hold the layers together. It made the bow seem more full and not so flat as the red/blue bow which I assembled completely with Mini-glue dots. Here's a side view of the same 2 bows to get a better idea of how differently the 2 variations turned out. Enlarge the view by clicking on the picture.

Questions? Contact me anytime!

Last Day: FREE Shipping, 10% OFF Retiring Sets

Don't miss out on this great special. FREE shipping ends today and so does the 10% off all retiring Stampin' Up! stamp sets. Click here for the list of retiring sets. More details can be found here in my previous post.

Beginning Today: 20% off the Love You Much Valentine Bundle. I pre-ordered the bundle and love the Designer Series Papers that comes with the bundle. And the stamp set is so cute. I haven't had a chance to get any samples made yet - still busy with Christmas preparations - but some of my demo friends have. Here's one sample by my friend Patty Bennett. And here's another by Patty. Patty Bennett has one of my favorite Stampin' Up! blogs and is someone from whom I get a lot of inspiration. You'll want to "bookmark" her blog to visit frequently. Not to worry! I'll be sharing samples of my own using the Love You Much Valentine Bundle ASAP after Christmas.

To order today, taking advantage of the free shipping, the 10% retiring stamp sets and to get the Love You Much Valentine Bundle at 20% off, click here. Be sure to order before 11:00 Pacific Daylight Timebecause Stampin' Up! is in the Mountain Time zone. Please note: I'm still doing a lot of running around today, so you may not hear back from me today if you try emailing me your order. So please use the convenient online ordering option today or anytime.

Questions? Contact me anytime.

Free Shipping and 10% Off Retired Stamps - Limited-Time Offer!

It's a very exciting time for all Stampin' Up! fans. All of the Stampin' Up! Fall-Winter retiring stamp sets are available for purchase now through January 18, 2009. Buy your favorites today before they’re gone! Shop online anytime 24/7 through my website, or contact me and I'll place the order for you. Click on the picture for the list of retiring stamp sets. Now through December 23, you can get 10% OFF all retiring stamp sets and FREE SHIPPING on orders over $70. Don’t wait to take advantage of this limited-time offer! When you place an order of $70 or more of ANY current products, you will automatically get free shipping. With these 2 specials going on right now, you can get up to 20% off! Stampin' Up! has never done anything like this before for the retiring stamp sets. And as if that was not enough, there is still the Fall-Winter sampler promotion, the Holiday Extravaganza promotion and the Country Living Holiday Collection Stampin’ Kit. Check Out All of These Great Promotions by clicking here! QUESTIONS? Contact me anytime.

It's a very exciting time for all Stampin' Up! fans. All of the Stampin' Up! Fall-Winter retiring stamp sets are available for purchase now through January 18, 2009. Buy your favorites today before they’re gone! Shop online anytime 24/7 through my website, or contact me and I'll place the order for you. Click on the picture for the list of retiring stamp sets. Now through December 23, you can get 10% OFF all retiring stamp sets and FREE SHIPPING on orders over $70. Don’t wait to take advantage of this limited-time offer! When you place an order of $70 or more of ANY current products, you will automatically get free shipping. With these 2 specials going on right now, you can get up to 20% off! Stampin' Up! has never done anything like this before for the retiring stamp sets. And as if that was not enough, there is still the Fall-Winter sampler promotion, the Holiday Extravaganza promotion and the Country Living Holiday Collection Stampin’ Kit. Check Out All of These Great Promotions by clicking here! QUESTIONS? Contact me anytime.

Cricut "REJOICE" Mini-Box Banner

Well, I still haven't gotten to work on my Christmas cards, but I did get my sample made for submitting to Cricut. I've applied to be the Cricut trainer for my area and one of the things they are requiring is a sample of my work. I created a cute little banner to send them. Here's a sneak peek of it.  It's simple, but I think it's more important to show quality work than something more complicated and fussy. We'll see if my theory is right.

My inspiration for the project is on page 49 of the current Stampin' Up! Fall/Winter Idea Book/Catalog. I chose to use papers I wasn't going to use for my home or my classes since I won't be getting my project back from Cricut. Click on the picture to see more pictures of the banner. My thinking was it would be cute in a baby boy's room for the holidays hung from a evergreen garland. I'll be hanging from my living room mantel, on an evergreen garland, a similar mini-box banner in more traditional colors with bigger boxes and letters. I'll post that as soon as I get it made. This was a really fun project and I can see doing something like it for all sorts of occasions. 

I used DCWV papers, Stampin' Up! grosgrain and ribbon and the cartridges I used were Tags, Bags, Boxes and More, Christmas Cheer and George. I used the Design Studio to be able to fit 2 boxes on one piece of 12 x 12 as large as possible. I think they ended up being 6.5 ", which would not fit 2 of without the DS program. Each side of the boxes are just under 2". I used Sticky Strip to hold the boxes closed. The boxes are strung on the grosgrain through the slots cut by the machine on 2 opposing sides of the box. In a couple pictures of the banner you can see how I used mounting tape for dimension. All the stars and the letters I backed each with a lightweight chipboard for additional dimension.

QUESTIONS? Contact me anytime.  

New Big Shot Demo Video

Be sure to visit my Stampin' Up! website to see the latest technique video. This video demonstrates how to use the enormously popular Big Shot with the equally popular chipboard offered by Stampin' Up! The main project, though simple to create, is adorable, as are the other projects shown.

All of the materials used to create these projects are listed on the same page as the video.

To order the materials to reproduce these projects or for any of your Stampin' Up! needs, simply order online by clicking "SHOP NOW" or contact me anytime.

Enjoy the video! Michelle

Finally, My First Christmas Card for 2008

Actually I'd made a few Christmas cards a month or two ago for my JoAnn's classes and open house, but I finally made my first card last night using all Stampin' Up! products. Click on the picture to enlarge.

My husband needed something to take with him to his employer's annual national sales meeting this weekend. He likes to reward all of his managers (direct reports) and outside sales reps, so I wrapped all of his 11 gifts last night. I only needed to make one card though since I had 10 left from swapping. I didn't have a lot of time, so I relied on the beautiful DSP I had on hand. I chose Ski Slope DSP for this card. The card stocks I used: Baja Breeze (In Color), Real Red and Whisper White. The grosgrain is Real Red. I used the corner rounder, scalloped border punch and the 1 3/8" circle punch. I can't forget to mention the bit of bling in the center of the snow flake (Ski Slope), IE Circle Ice Rhinestone Brad.

I used Stampin' Dimensionals as you can see in this detail picture. The card just seemed so flat without the Dimensionals. I had a lot of fun making this card since it was simple and the papers are so pretty and of such high quality.

I'll be creating and sharing more Christmas cards over the next few days while my honey is out of town. Even though the economy is so bad that our gift giving is going to be minimal this year, I can't neglect sending our love and holiday wishes to those we don't get to see very often - loved ones who are out of state, out of town and even locally. Our busy lives just don't leave much time for visiting, but our hearts are still with so many people. OK, enough chit-chat. Better go get to work.

Sending you all wishes for a blessed holiday season, Michelle

She's So Creative!

I just have to share with you something made by Shelli Gardner, CEO of Stampin' Up! She used leftover pieces from the Stampin’ Up! Country Living Kit. This project gives you an idea of how clever and creative Shelli is and just how wonderful her presentations are at the Stampin' Up! demonstrators annual convention. When you visit Shelli's blog, you'll not only see more creative projects, but you'll also get to know how sweet Shelli is and why her demonstrators all love her so much.

To order the kit Shelli used to create this fanciful holiday decoration, visit my website and click on shop now in the top right corner of the page. Or click here to go right to the kit ordering page.

QUESTIONS? Feel free to contact me anytime! Blessings! Michelle

Holiday Extravaganza Up to 50% Off Current Stampin' Up! Products