Dashing through the snow...

  Merry Christmas Eve!  Today's card is versatile woodland winter fun and can be used for Christmas, New Years, Hello or a winter Birthday.  I completed this card using the Avery Elle Snow Much Fun stamp set, Stitched Rectangles and Stitched Hillsides die sets by Lawn Fawn and the banner shape is the negative from a heart with banner die.

  I started by laying my clean stamps on my card front to get the layout where I wanted it.  I also cut the snowbank from white cardstock using one of the Stitched Hillside dies, positioning the die to give me a sledding hill and the pond border.  I used the snowbank as a template for the masking paper that I cut to match, laying it down to mask off where I wanted the pond to be.  I placed a scrap piece of paper with a straight edge to create the top edge of the frozen pond and added Tumbled Glass Distress Ink with my blending tool.  With the snowbank mask in place, I stamped my images in Momento Tuxedo Black ink and colored with Spectrum Noir markers.  After removing the snowbank mask, I stamped the snowflakes randomly all over using Tumbled Glass again and added a bit to the edges.  The banner is stamped with the sentiment from the stamp set in the same black ink and edged with Tumbled Glass and Blueprint Sketch.  The focal panel measures 4 by 5.25 inches and I trimmed the snowbank to fit.  I gave the snowbank a coat of Wink of Stella Clear glitter and added the banner with foam squares.  The blue mat is cut to 4.25 by 5.5 and is foiled cardstock from DCWV.  They were layered using tape runner and then adhered to a white card base.  That finishes the card!

Thanks for hanging out with me on Christmas!  I hope you had fun and learned something new! If you're interested in the stamps I used today, they're on sale at Laura's Loft.  Click the link above to head right to it. 

Ringing In The Holidays with Laura's Loft blog hop

Hello! Welcome to the Ringing In The Holidays blog hop with Laura's Loft.  I'm sure you've enjoyed all the talent so far and I know you'll enjoy my project as well.  If you have missed any stops along the way, click here to head back to the beginning and here for the previous stop.  Laura has a generous giveaway with the hop this month as well as a discount code.  Details will be at the bottom.

My hop project this month features Newton's Nook Frozen Friends stamp set and Creative Bling Design sequin mix in Glacial Bliss.  

 Here's my supply list:

• Spectrum Noir paper by Crafters Companion, cut to 4 by 5.25 inches
• Neenah Solar White 110 lb cardstock, cut to 4.25 by 11 inches and folded at 5.5 inches
• Royal Blue DCWV Foiled Cardstock, cut to 4.25 by 5.5 inches
• Inkadinkadoo Masking Paper
• Newton's Nook Frozen Friends stamp set
• Neat & Tangled Bright Baubles stamp set
• CAS-ual Fridays Snowy Sayings stamp set
• Lawn Fawn Stitched Borders die set
• Simon Says Stamp Dark Chocolate ink
• Momento Tuxedo Black ink
• Distress Ink in Tumbled Glass and Blueprint Sketch
• Tim Holtz Mini Ink Blending tool and foam
• Delicata Golden Glitz ink
• Spectrum Noir Markers
• Ranger Embossing Powder in Superfine Detail Gold
• Jellyroll Black pen
• tape runner
• Tombow Mono-multi liquid glue
• Glitter Ritz glitter in Harvest Gold
• Creative Design Bling sequins in Glacial Bliss

Step 1.)  Using the border die with the mild curve, place the die towards the bottom of a sheet of the Inkadinkadoo masking paper and run it through a die cutting machine.  Apply the mask towards the bottom of the Spectrum Noir paper.  Using the NN Frozen Friends, stamp the short snowman in the valley of the curve with the bottom edge of the snowman on the edge of the mask using Momento ink.  Stamp the tall snowman on the peak of the curve with the bottom edge of the snowman on the edge of the mask.  Stamp both snowmen on the masking paper and cut out to create masks; apply masks over stamped images.
Step 2.) Stamp the tree image from the Bright Baubles set using SSS Dark Chocolate ink, or another dark brown ink, in between the snowmen.  Stamp the star and ornaments from the same set using the gold ink.  Stamp the snowflakes from the Snowy Sayings set and Frozen Friends set using both colors of the Distress Inks.  The tiny snowflakes are stamped in Golden Glitz.
Step 3.) Using the mini blending tool and clean foam, add Tumbled Glass around the edges of the cardstock and lightly over the edge of the snowbank mask and in between the snowmen.  Remove masks.
Step 4.) Stamp arms on the tall snowmen and heart in the middle of the mug with black ink. Stamp the sentiment towards the top in the gold ink and emboss with the Ranger detail gold embossing powder.  Color in the hats, scarves, mittens, noses, cheeks and mug with SN markers.  The colors I used are as follows: Noses: OR 1 and 2
Tall Snowman: TB 2 , 3, and 4; PP1 for blush; IB 1, Black and blender pen
Short Snowman: HB 1, 2, and 3; PP1; IB 1, and blender pen.
I also used IB 1 to add detail to the snowbank at the bottom and went over it with the blender pen to soften it.  Attach the sequins using mini glue dots and use a bit of glue in the heart of the mug to add glitter.  Attach the blue foil cardstock to the card base using tape runner.  Lastly, attach the card front to the foil layer using tape runner, being sure to place it evenly.  Our card is finished!

There's lots more to discover as you move along the hop! For the next stop, click here to head to Emma's blog.  Below is a complete list of all the fun to be had.  Thanks for stopping by! Feel free to ask any questions and be sure to let me know what you think! Much love and Merry Christmas!

1. Laura  http://www.lauralscott.com/ringing-in-the-holidays/
2. Deana Benson  http://www.designcreativelybling.com/2015/12/ringing-in-holidays-with-lauras-loft.html
3. Robbie Rubala    http://inkedx2.blogspot.com/search/label/LL
4. LeeAnn McKinney http://mimiscraftyabyss.blogspot.com/2015/12/lauras-loft-is-ringing-in-holidays.html
5. Debbie Brunssen: http://debbielovestocraft.blogspot.com/2015/12/december-shop-hop-ringing-in-holidays.html
6. Joy Hadden: http://piecesofjoyhadden.blogspot.com/2015/12/ringing-in-holidays-with-lauras-loft.html    
7. Lisa Bedigian - http://royalpumpkinart.blogspot.com/2015/12/ringing-in-holidays-december-shop-hop.html
8. Jasmine Burgess - http://journeywithjasmine.blogspot.com/2015/12/ringing-in-holidays-with-lauras-loft.html
9. Emma at Heart of Craft- http://heartofcraft.blogspot.com/2015/12/lauras-loft-shop-and-hop-ringing-in.html
10. So Stinkin' Crafty - Cindy Dooley - http://wp.me/p5d3NQ-4b

Giveaway Entry Requirements:

1. Follow Laura's Loft on IG @InLaurasLoft, like the IG Hop/Giveaway post and tag a friend. as many as you like but one tag per comment please (this part is for extra entries).  If you do not have IG, just let us know:)
2.Visit & Like Laura's Loft store page on facebook https://www.facebook.com/Lauras.Loft.Shop
3. Leave a comment at each stop on the blog hop including Laura's.
After doing these 3 things, fill out the rafflecopter on Laura's blog to be entered!! Yay!

Here's the prize up for grabs: 2 Newtons Nook stamp sets and 2 exclusive Laura's Loft sequin mixes!  The discount code is WRMK20% for 20% off all We Are Memory Keepers products, through January 3, 2016.  As a bonus, Laura has all the Christmas Stamps AND dies 30% off, no code needed.  Happy shopping!

Christmas Project Series Day 12: Great Lakes Lighthouse Birdhouse

Hello and welcome back! Today's project is a Lighthouse birdhouse for infinity-engraving.com.  I had my 7 year old nephew in mind when deciding how I wanted to decorate it, as it will be a Christmas present since he LOVES birds.  I used paint, texture paste, glitter, mica flakes and metal and resin embellishments to give it a life by the lakeshore vibe.

 I started by giving my lighthouse two coats of gesso, letting it dry between each coat.  I followed the gesso with a coat of Dylusions London Blue paint.  After that was completely dry, I added my texture.  Using White Sand Texture Paste by Prima, I added copper microfine glitter and mixed it in to add shimmer to the texture and add opacity when it dried.  I wanted it to look like wet sand drifted up from the waves.  Using the Flourish stencil by Tim Holtz, I added my texture paste thickly over ever other flat side of the lighthouse using a palette knife. 

I added more of the paste mixture around the lighthouse around the base to add to the wet sand drift look.  While it was still wet, I carefully added mica flakes to simulate rocks.  If you wanted this to look like an ocean lighthouse, you could add tiny seashells.  I'm a Michigander, which means the Great Lakes and freshwater, so plenty of sand and water, but no seashells.  I finished it simply with a metal winged-heart embellishment over the door and a resin butterfly resting on the top, both of of which are attached with hot glue.  To hang it, drill a chain into the top of the lighthouse.  I plan on laying a few strings and ribbons on the top to attract some birdie's to make a home come spring.

Thanks for hanging out with me today!  I hope you had fun and learned something new.  Feel free to ask any questions and let us know what you think.

Much love and Merry Christmas!
Jasmine

2015 Christmas Project Series Day 11: Snowman Selfie Shaker card

 Hello! Todays project is a fun and colorful Snowman Selfie Shaker card.  It features two products carried at Laura's Loft: Newtons Nook Frozen Friends and Holiday Wishes.  Another fun feature of this card is that if you temporarily attach the shaker, it can be removed and turned into an ornament by attaching a hanger to the back. 
Here's my supply list:

• Simon Says Stamp Holiday Frames Die
• Lawn Fawn Stitched Rectangle Die - 3 3/8 by 4 5/8 inches
• Crafters Companion Spectrum Noir paper
• Simon Says Stamp Schoolhouse Red cardstock
• Simon Says Stamp Kraft cardstock
• Lawn Fawn Snowy Day 6 x 6 paper pad
• Momento Tuxedo Black ink pad
• ColorBox Mixed Media ink: "Jasmine" (White)
• Hero Arts Shadow Ink: Tide Pool
• Spectrum Noir Markers
• Newtons Nook stamp sets "Frozen Friends" and "Holiday Wishes"
• Avery Elle Window Sheets acetate
• 3M Foam tape
• tape runner
• Tombow Mono Multi liquid glue
• Doodlebug sequins
• Prima chunky glitter
• My Minds Eye "Joyous" and "Jubilee" enamel kits

I started by running the Holiday frames die with the red cardstock through my big shot.  Using the red die cut, I created a smaller stitched rectangle by die cutting the green piece twice.  The red piece served as a gauge to get the border even.  I trimmed the acetate to fit the window from the top and side edges to cover the bottom edge of the words.  I attached the acetate with Tombow liquid glue.  

I stamped the main image with Momento black.  A dye based ink is important to use when using alcohol markers so that the image lines don't smear or smudge.  I angled the snowmen so that they would come in from the side at an angle to replicate the selfie look.  The shades I used are: OR 1, 2; DR 3, 5, 7; GT 1, 2, 3; PP 1; Blender Pen and various colors for the ornaments.  I cut my foam tape in thirds and put two layers around the edges, being careful to butt up the edges of the tape to make sure none of the shaker bits escape. 

I like to run a powder tool around the edges of the foam tape before I take the release paper off so that the bits don't stick.  I added sequins, glitter and micro beads before removing the release paper.  Once your shaker bits are in, remove the release paper and making sure each piece is in the correct orientation, attach the focal image, pressing around the edges to seal. 

To add some detail to the card base, I stamped the snowflakes around the edge of the base in white pigment ink.  I stamped the hearts in Tide Pool ink.  If you want to make the shaker available for an ornament, use a removable adhesive to attach it to the card base.  If not, use tape runner.

To finish up, added a few enamel hearts and gems.  I really loved how this one turned out.  It's just adorable. 

Thanks for hanging out with me today! I hope you had fun and learned something new.  Feel free to ask any questions and let me know what you think. 

Much love and Merry Christmas!

2015 Christmas Project Series Day 10: CAS Flip It Card 4 ways

Todays project is a Clean And Simple Flip It card using a die by Stephanie Bernard.  There are several shapes for this type of die and this particular one spoke of Christmas to me.  As you'll see, its a single peice of cardstock that folds into a standard 4.25 by 5.5 inch card and the middle shape flips when it's opened.  I leave the inside blank to provide space to write a message to the recipient.  Let's get started! I made 4 cards for this post.
Heres my supply list:

•  Cardstock cut to 6 by 6.5 inches

1.  Blackberry Bliss by Stampin Up
2.  Kraft by Simon Says Stamp
3. Schoolhouse Red by Simon Says Stamp
4. Neenah Solar White 110 lb.

• Patterned Paper

1. Lawn Fawn Snowy Day Collection
2. Bo Bunny Altitude Collection

• Sizzix Flip-It Die set by Stephanie Bernard
• Lawn Fawn Stitched Snowflakes dies
• Simon Says Stamp Snowflake dies
• Stampin Up glitter paper in Iridescent Ice
• Doodlebug glitter paper in White
• Royal Blue metal sheets (company went out of business)
• My Minds Eye Jubilee enamel shapes
• tape runner
• Tombow Mono Multi
• Zots Bling mini glue dots
• Creative Design Bling sequins in Glacial Bliss

I start by trimming my cardstock to 6 by 6.5 inches.  I line up the die to the edges of my cardstock and run through my big shot.  The die will cut and score the cardstock for you.  All you have to do is fold, crease and decorate as desired.








I'm using a sheet from Bo Bunny's Altitude collection to die cut two panels that will go on the front of my card.

 These papers are from Lawn Fawn's Snowy Day collection.  I like how these dies are seperate as you can line them up to get the pattern or scene on the paper that you want on the card.

 The set also comes with dies to embellish and emboss that fit the cutouts. 

 These four cards came together in about 30 minutes.  I kept these three fairly simple by finishing them with foam squares under the inner medallion or outer wreath for dimension and a bow enamel sticker on the red and green wreathes and die cut snowflake on the sheet music wreath.  I added a bit more to the purple card with sequins and die cut metal snowflakes as well as a die cut glitter snowflake over the middle medallion.  I used Tombow liquid glue to adhere the die cut snowflake and Zots Bling glue dots to attach the sequins and metal snowflakes.

Thanks for hanging out with me today!  I hope you had fun and learned something new.  Feel free to ask any questions and let me know what you think!

Merry Christmas and much love!

2015 Christmas Project Series Day 9: Ribbon Doll by Infinity Engraving

 

Hello! Today's project is this lovely lady.  She is a Ribbon Doll from infinity-engraving.com and I've named her Scarlett.  She's made of deeply etched wood and comes with two chipboard pieces to attach the ribbons to make her skirt.  She comes blank, or plain, and just about any medium will work to color her with the exception of alcohol markers.  I'm pretty excited about this project, as it's my first project for Infinity Engraving as a member of their design team.



I started with Scarlett's hair.  She has a vintage Hollywood vibe about her, so I started with her hair using tones of gold, copper and auburn.  I used Fine Tec Watercolors, which have a ton of mica to provide such a high shimmer.  I painted her hair over the raw wood, not bothering to use any gesso and I think the brown tones of the wood serve to ground the colors of her hair.  Roses and pearls are the perfect touch for her glamorous look.  Using small paper roses, I colored two with Dylusions Post Box Red spray and Gold Color Shine spray by Heidi Swapp.  I left one white so that it would pop and attached them with hot glue.  I finished her hair with a tiny red and black feather from my stash and added a string of flat-back self-adhesive pearls.  She has a pearl earring and red jewel choker necklace.

Her skirt is red, burgundy, cream, white and gold.  I used a few seam binding ribbons from Prairie Bird Boutique on Etsy.  The rest are ribbons and laces from my stash.  I attached all the ribbons and laces in layers using hot glue.

For her dress and skin, I applied 3 coats of gesso.  Once dry, I used flesh toned paint for her skin and an irridescent gold watercolor  (same Fine Tec palette) over the gesso on her dress so that it looks white in one light and flashes gold when you move it.  SO PRETTY!

I just love how she turned out.

I hope you love this project as much as I do!  Please feel free to ask any questions and let me know what you think!

Much love!

Winter Wonderland with Laura's Loft

Hello! Welcome to the Winter Wonderland blog hop with Laura's Loft.  I'm sure you've enjoyed all the talent so far and I know you'll enjoy my project as well.  If you have missed any stops along the way, click here to head back to the beginning and here for the previous stop.  Laura has a generous giveaway with the hop this month too.  Details will be at the bottom.

Onto my hop project, which features three products from Laura's Loft: Altenew Lacy Scrolls, WOW Embossing Powder in Silent Night and Creative Design Bling sequin mix in Glacial Bliss.  I am so happy with how this card came together; it's just beautiful.  

 

Here's my supply list:

• Neenah Solar White 110 lb cardstock
• DCWV Vellum cardstock
• DCWV Foiled cardstock stack
• Altenew Lacy Scrolls stamp set
• Tim Holtz Holiday Wishes stamp set
• Neat and Tangled Bright Baubles stamp set
• Lawn Fawn Stitched Rectangles die set
• Tim Holtz Tattered Poinsettia die
• Distress inks in Broken China and Blueprint Sketch
• Delicata Golden Glitz
• VersaMark ink
• Ranger Archival Ink in black
• Tim Holtz Mini Blending Tool and Foam
• WOW Embossing Powder in Silent Night
• Creative Design Bling sequin mix in Glacial Bliss
• Zots Bling glue dots
• tape runner
• foam squares

I started by cutting a 8.5 by 11 inch sheet of Neenah cardstock in half at 5.5 inches, giving me two pieces of 8.5 by 5.5 inch sheets.  One sheet was folded in half to make the card base and the other was cut in half to make two 4.25 by 5.5 inch pieces.  I created my background piece with the Altenew Lacy Scrolls in VersaMark ink. I started with a flower image, followed by a vine and leaf.  Then, I covered with WOW Silent Night embossing powder.  Repeat this process without overlapping.  Fill in any open areas with the smaller images from the set, such as the filigree and swirls.  Once the sheet was complete, I melted the embossing powder and the background was finished.

The powder will turn from powdery to shiny when it's melted.  The two pictures show the shift in the light; in one light it's a steely blue/gray and in the other it's a bright, shiny silver.  To get the stitched detail around the edge, I die cut it with the largest of the Stitched Rectangles set by Lawn Fawn.  It measures 4.25 by 5.5 inches, the same same as a standard card.   For my poinsettia, it was easier to cut the shapes and then stamp.  One pass through the big shot to die cut and stamp each layer individually to avoid missing any edges.

I inked each layer with Broken China Distress ink first and added Blueprint Sketch lightly over the edges.  I wanted to see both colors; Blueprint Sketch is much stronger than Broken China, so I was sure to add slowly and lightly.  I added the gold edges by dipping the edges into the Delicata Golden Glitz ink pad.  To add even more dimension, I rolled each leaf over the barrel of a
large paintbrush.  To assemble, I added foam squares and rotated each layer so that it had a full look and it was ready to go.
 The vellum cardstock is 1.5 by 6 inches.  Using my MISTI, I stamped the sentiment with the same gold ink I used to edge the poinsettia and heat embossed it with clear embossing powder.  To avoid warping the vellum (which warps easier than regular cardstock), I let my heat gun run for 90 seconds to make sure it's good and hot.  The powder will melt almost immediately when the gun is hot enough.
I had all my elements and was ready to assemble, but I felt that it needed another touch of blue.  The foiled cardstock fit perfectly.  I cut a strip 1/2 inch wide and 6 inches long.
To attach my vellum, I added tape runner behind the sentiment and folded the overhang over the edges of the card to the backside.  Adding tape runner to the back edges under the vellum overhang, I pressed it down on the back and smoothed the sentiment down to the background.  With tape runner on the back side, I added it to the top edge of the vellum and trimmed off the excess with scissors.  My poinsettia is attached with foam squares so that it frames the sentiment.  To complete my card, I added a few Creative Design Bling sequins from the Glacial Bliss collection.  This collection is a gorgeous mix of blues, teal, white and just a touch of purple.  It's really pretty and has a variety of shapes and sizes.
 Cindy is the exciting next stop on the blog hop.  Thanks for stopping by and don't forget to check out the giveaway at the bottom.  Laura has a fantastic prize package waiting! She also has a coupon code for Avery Elle: AE20% for 20% off until 11/28/15.

 Giveaway Entrance Requirements:
TO ENTER:
1. Follow Laura's Loft on Instagram @InLaurasLoft, like the IG Hop/Giveaway post and tag a friend. as many as you like but one tag per comment.
2. Follow Laura's Loft store page on facebook https://www.facebook.com/Lauras.Loft.Shop
3. Leave a comment at each stop on the blog hop.

 Here is a complete list of blog hop stops full of crafty goodness!
1. Laura- http://www.lauralscott.com/winter-wonderland
2. Deana Benson- http://www.designcreativelybling.com/2015/11/winter-wonderland-with-lauras-loft.html
3. Robbie Rubala - http://inkedx2.blogspot.com/search/label/LL
4. Debbie Brunssen- http://debbielovestocraft.blogspot.com/2015/11/lauras-loft-winter-wonderland-shop-hop.html?m=1
5. LeeAnn McKinney- http://mimiscraftyabyss.blogspot.com/2015/11/lauras-loft-shop-hop-winter-wonderland.html?m=1 
6. Lisa Bedigian - http://royalpumpkinart.blogspot.com/2015/11/winter-wonderland-with-lauras-loft-shop.html
7. Joy Hadden - http://piecesofjoyhadden.blogspot.com/2015/11/winter-wonderland-hop-with-lauras-loft.html
8. Linda Gorman  http://dabblesbylinda.blogspot.com/2015/11/winter-wonderland-with-lauras-loft.html

9. Jasmine Burgess - you're here!
10. Cindy Dooley  http://wp.me/p5d3NQ-3s
11. Heart of Craft (Emma)- http://heartofcraft.blogspot.com/2015/11/winter-wonderland-with-lauras-shop-and.html


Thanks for joining us for our Winter Wonderland hop! I hope you had a lot of fun and learned something new along the way!  Feel free to ask questions and let me know what you think.

Much love!

2015 Christmas Project Series Day 8: Watercolored Poinsettia

Welcome! Today's project is this gorgeous card done in traditional Christmas colors, using a non- Christmas stamp set.  I used a variety of techniques including stamping, watercolor and heat embossing as well as fun embellishments with the liquid pearls and vellum.  It turned out to be very elegant and classic while still fresh and modern.  Or maybe I'm just flattering myself!  Ha! I made two versions of this card, but you'll have to wait for the other one.  It will be shown in a blog hop for Laura's Loft coming up, so look forward to that!  On to how I made this red and gold beauty!

My supply list:

• Neenah Solar White 110 lb cardstock
• Distress Watercolor Cardstock
• DCWV Vellum cardstock
• Altenew Lacy Scrolls
• Tim Holtz Christmas Blueprints 4 (Poinsettia)
• Tim Holtz Mini Christmas Blueprints 7 (Holly)
• Casual Fridays Snowy Sayings (Stamp of Approval box)
• Koi Watercolors
• Mica Artist Colors, Set 6 by Fine Tec
• Archival Ink in black
• VersaMark ink
• WOW embossing powder in Vintage Candy Cane
• Liquid Pearls in Gold and Rouge
• Tape Runner
• Foam Squares

 I started with my Poinsettia and Holly.  I stamped both images on the smooth side of a piece of Distress Watercolor Cardstock in black Archival Ink.  I like archival when I do any water-based technique because it's waterproof, so it won't run when it gets wet.  I love the Koi watercolor travel set because it's small, easy to use and great quality.

After my images were painted and dry, I fussy cut them out.  Yes, it took awhile, but I think the finished look was worth it.  I added the Rouge Liquid Pearls to the holly berries and the Gold to the center of the Poinsettia.  Tapping several times on the back of the card will settle out the peak on the pearl medium.  While that dried, I stamped the background.

 Starting with the flower images from Altenew's Lacy Scrolls stamp set, I stamped them in Delicata Golden Glitz ink.  I turned the stamp in different directions to make it look random.  Using the smaller images, I filled in the gaps with the leaves, filigree and swirls.

Delicata is a pigment ink, so it takes a bit to dry, but does dry fairly quickly.  The shimmer of this ink is simply incredible.

While the background dried, I cut a strip of vellum 1.5 inches wide and 6 inches long.  Using the "Joy to the World" sentiment from the Snowy Sayings set by Casual Fridays, I stamped it in VersaMark and used Vintage Candy Cane embossing powder by WOW to heat emboss it.  To avoid warping the vellum as much as possible, let your heat gun warm up for 60-90 seconds before applying it to your embossing.  It should start to melt almost immediately and will change from powdery to shiny when it's melted.  Now that each element is complete, we are ready for assembly.  Start with the vellum.  I added tape runner behind the sentiment and folded the overhang on each end over to the backside.  I added a bit of tape runner along the edge of the vellum and smoothed it down to attach it and pressed around the sentiment to stick it down.  Next, I used tape runner over the edges of the front of the card base and attached the background piece.  To finish up, I added foam squares to the holly and poinsettia to attach them.  All done!

Thanks for stopping by! I hope you enjoyed your visit and learned something new.  Feel free to ask any questions and let me know what you think! 

Much love!

2015 Christmas Project Series Day 7: Vintage Christmas tag

 It's day 7 of my Christmas project series! We're over half way through.  Today's project is quick and fairly simple to put together, but has huge impact with our stamp-embossed tree.  Lets get started!
My supply list:

• #8 Manilla tag by Ranger
• Distress Inks in Blueprint Sketch, Weathered Wood, Gathered Twig and Hickory Smoke
• Water in a spray bottle
• Mini Holidays Stamp Set by Tim Holtz
• Old Letter Writing by Hero Arts
• Cabin by Inkadinkadoo
• Snowy Sayings by CASual Fridays (SOA box)
• Pine Tree Bigz die by Tim Holtz/Sizzix
• Delicata Golden Glitz ink
• VersaMark ink
• Ranger Super Fine Detail Embossing Powder in Gold
• Neenah Solar White 110 lb. cardstock (for the pine tree)

 Step 1). Swipe Weathered Wood and Gathered Twig over your craft mat and add a bit of Blueprint Sketch.  The blue is a much stronger color than the other two and can easily overwhelm them so be careful not to add too much.  Spritz water 2-3 times over your ink to get it moving and blending; be careful not to add too much because it can thin the ink too much and you won't get the color saturation you are looking for.  Lay your tag down in the ink and let it sit for a few seconds.  Lift it up and heat dry with a heat gun.  It will curl up and then flatten back down.  Once it's dry, dip it again and dry it again.  It's important that it's dry before you move on to the stamping.  If the tag is damp, you won't get a crisp image.  If it feels cool to the touch, it's not completely dry.

 Step 2.)  Ink the cabin stamp with Hickory Smoke ink and stamp it about half way down the tag. 

Set aside to let dry while we make the gold tree.

 Step 3.)  Using a sheet of scrap paper, cover the die cut tree with VersaMark embossing ink.  Pour gold powder over it, covering it completely.  Let your heat gun get good and hot by letting it run for 60-90 seconds before applying it to the tree.  When it's hot enough, the powder will start to melt almost immediately.  Repeat the ink, apply powder, melt cycle 2 more times, giving the tree three layers of embossing powder.  Before the third layer, ink the large script stamp with VersaMark and have it ready.  As soon as the third layer of powder is melted, stamp the script stamp onto the warm tree and lift off.

You can use any stamp with this technique, but fine line designs look the best.

Step 4).  I like to lay my pieces on my project before I add my sentiment so that I know what is going to look best and how things are going to lay.  Ink up the sentiment stamp from the TH Mini Holidays stamp with Gathered Twig and stamp towards the top third of the tag, aligning it with the right edge.

Step 5).  Attach the tree with foam dots so the the left edge of the tree is off the left edge of the tag.  Finish off with the gold snowflakes. The flakes I used are from the Snowy Sayings set by CASual Fridays with Golden Glitz ink by Delicata.

I finished off my tag with some royal blue and cream seaming binding ribbon from Prairie Bird Boutique on Etsy.com.

Thanks for spending some time with me today.  Keep in mind that you can do this style with any stamps; you don't have to have the exact same one I've used.  Try it out with different colors and different styles, but most importantly, have fun and get creative!  Feel free to ask questions and let me know what you think!

Much love!

2015 Christmas Project Series Day 6: Do you wanna build a Snowman?

Welcome to Day 4 of my 2015 Christmas Project Series! This guy is just adorable and I love how the background turned out.

Here's my supply list:

Simon Says Stamp Build a Snowman stamp and die set

Simon Says Stamp inks in Blue Violet, Lavender, Hydrangea, Island Blue, Sea Glass, Maliblue, and Orange Peel

Tim Holtz mini ink blending tool and foam

Inkadinkadoo Masking Paper

Neenah Solar White 110 lb card stock

Lawn Fawn Stiched Cloud die set

Lawn Fawn ink in Lobster

Simon Says Stamp Stitched Slopes and Hills die set

Momento Tuxedo Black ink

Simon Says Stamp "Winter Flurries" sequins

Zots bling glue dots

Scor-tape -1/2 inch

Tape runner adhesive

3M foam tape

Wink of Stella Clear glitter pen

Step 1).  I started with an 8.5 by 11 inch sheet of white cardstock.  Using my paper trimmer, I cut it in half long ways, giving me 2 4.25 by 11 inch pieces.  One piece was my card base, scored at 5.5 inches and folded in half.  The other, I cut at 5.5 inches.  One of those pieces I trimmed to 4 by 5.25 to make the card front.  I used the other piece later on in the project.

Step 2).  I used one of the Lawn Fawn cloud dies and 2 of the SSS slope dies to die cut a sheet of the masking paper into thirds.  Pay attention to the spacing because you'll be ink blending over the cut edge and you'll want a bit of space to avoid any unwanted smudges.  If it's not wide enough, just use a piece of scrap paper where you need it.





Step 3).  I started at the bottom of my cardstock, working my way up and changing the shape of each layer of ink.  Looking at the picture, the blue side is the positive side of the die and the purple is the negative side of the die.  Each time I moved the mask to add a layer of ink, I changed the color and used the negative side to mask the layer I just finished inking.  The picture on the right gives a better example of the process.

Step 4).  I stamped the snowman and his twig arms in Momento Tuxedo Black ink (separately) on the spare piece of cardstock.  I also added his eyes and smile in the same ink.  I stamped the scarf and mittens in SSS Maliblue ink, carrot nose in SSS Orange Peel and the bird in LF Lobster ink.  Using the matching die set, I die cut all the little acessories to the snowman and attached them using tape runner.  The mittens stamp in one piece, so I cut them apart to make two separate pieces.  The snow bank was cut using one of the SSS Stitched Slopes dies.  

Step 5).  Time to assemble.  I started by adding the snow bank to the inked panel with tape runner and trimmed the edges with scissors.  I then adhered the inked panel to the card base with Scor-tape, appling it along each edge with a strip diagonally across the middle.  Leaving the edge backing in place, I remove the middle backing and then reapplied it, moving the backing down an inch, leaving an inch of adhesive exposed.  This allows for even placement and adjustment before I permanently adhered it.  I pressed it down when I had it properly placed and pulled the rest of the backing strip out, completely adhering the middle.  Then I removed all the edge backing and smoothed it down.   I attached the nose to the face, mittens to the arms, arms to the body and scarf to the neck with tape runner.  To pop up the snowman, I used foam tape on the back of the snowman and under the mittens.  I also added foam tape to the bird and put him standing on Olaf's head.  (I couldn't help myself, that song keeps running through my head!)  I added the sequins with tiny glue dots and added a coat of Wink of Stella glitter pen to the scarf and mittens.  

Step 6.)  I must admit I almost forgot the sentiment. I stamped it in the same Momento black ink.  And we're done!

Thanks for joining me today for another project!  I didn't quite know how the background was going to turn out, but I was really pleased with the results.  If you're new to ink blending, that's ok.  Just remember to take your time and keep it light.  Keep light pressure on your inking tool and go slowly.  You'll learn and you'll be fabulous!  Please feel free to ask any questions and let me know what you think!

Much love!

journeywithjasmine: 2015 Christmas Project Series Day 5: Snow much lov...

journeywithjasmine: 2015 Christmas Project Series Day 5: Snow much lov...: Welcome! Today's project is a shaker card done two ways, featuring products available at Laura's Loft .  Here's a list of my ...

2015 Christmas Project Series Day 5: Snow much love!

Welcome! Today's project is a shaker card done two ways, featuring products available at Laura's Loft.  Here's a list of my supplies:

• Strathmore 140 lb Coldpress Watercolor paper
• Neenah Solar White 110 lb cardstock
• Crafter's Companion Spectrum Noir cardstock
• DCWV silver and ice blue glitter paper
• Impression Obsession large circle shaker pouch
• Momento Tuxedo Black ink
• Spectrum Noir Markers: BP 1 ,2, 6; OR 1; LG 3, 4; IG 1, 2, 4
• Newtons Nook stamp set: Frozen Friends
• Doodlebug sequins
• Snowflake sequins
• Lawn Fawn Stitched Rectangle, Stitched Circle, Scripty Joy and Scalloped Circle dies
• Stick- It Adhesive sheets
• White fun foam
• 1/2 inch Scor-tape

• Simon Says Stamp Falling Snow stencil
• Simon Says Stamp Cotton Candy Cardstock
• Aleene's Glitter Snow embossing paste
• Newtons Nook Holiday Wishes and Frozen Friends stamp sets
• Stampin Up Sheltering Tree stamp set
• Inkadinkadoo Masking Paper
• Stampin' Up White glitter paper
• DCWV green glitter paper
• Spectrum Noir Markers: IG 1, 2; PL 1, 2; LG 3, 4; CG 4

For the blue card: the background piece was cut using the largest of the Lawn Fawn Stitched Rectangle die set from a larger piece of watercolor paper that I colored with spray inks;  I've linked that technique post here.  It was cut down to 4.25 by 5.5 inches, a standard A2 card size.
 For the focal image, I used Crafters Companion SN cardstock because it's made to work with alcohol markers.  I stamped my snow couple image from Newtons Nook Frozen Friends in Momento Tuxedo Black ink.  When working with alcohol markers, it's important to use a dye based ink for your stamped images so that it doesn't bleed or smudge when you color.  I used IG 1, 2 and 4 for the shadows on my snow people and the ground underneath them, OR 1 on their carrot noses, LG 3 and 4 on the green scarf and BP 1, 2 and 6 on the pink scarf with just a touch of BP 1 for the blush.  For the focal image background, I used TB 1, 2, 4 and 5.  I had to color the background in layers and take my time blending so that I achieved a smooth transition from light to dark.  I stamped the snowflakes last.
 Using the second largest of the scalloped circle dies, I cut out the focal image as it closely matched the size of the shaker pouch, roughly 3.5 inches.  I added my shaker bits, sequins and larger glitter, to the middle of the focal image.  The shaker pouches are self-adhesive, so I peeled off about an inch of the liner and stuck it down to the edge of my die cut focal piece to make sure I had it properly placed, then removed the rest and pressed along the edges to seal.  The silver glitter paper layer was die cut using the largest of the stitched circle dies, about 4 inches.  The joy was cut from ice blue glitter paper and adhered last.

Assembly: On a white Neenah card base (4.25 by 11 and scored at 5.5 inches to make a top folding card base), I adhered the blue water-colored piece using Scor-tape.  I attached the shaker piece to the silver circle with Scor-tape as well, then mounted the shaker to the blue topped card-base.  Lastly, I adhered the joy die cut with liquid adhesive and added a matching blue gem for the dot over the j.

The pink card has masking and less coloring.  We also get to have fun with embossing paste.  My cardbase is SSS Cotton Candy cardstock cut 4.25 by 11 inches and scored at 5.5 inches to make a top folding card.  Using the SSS Falling Snow stencil, I laid it down with the largest snow dots at the top.  I taped down my stencil with post-it tape; you'll want to use a tape that won't tear the paper.  Using a palette knife and Aleenes Glitter Snow embossing paste, I smoothed the paste over the stencil, making sure I had an even layer and removing any excess.  Remove and wash the stencil and knife immediately or it will ruin both as it wont come off if it dries on there.  I set my cardbase aside to dry while I worked on my focal image.
  I did three layers of stamping and masking here.  The first image to stamp is the one you want in front.  I started with my snow people from NN Frozen Friends, stamping them with Momento Tuxedo Black ink on my cardstock and again on the white side of the masking paper.  Cut out the snow people mask and placed it carefully over the image.  Using the hanging stocking image from NN Holiday Wishes, I stamped it so that it would look like it was hanging from the trees over their heads and stamped it again on masking paper.  I cut out the stockings and applied the mask over the stamped stocking image.  The third image I stamped was the tree from Stampin Up's Sheltering Tree set, also in Momento Tuxedo Black ink.  With the mask over the snow people still in place, I stamped a few presents from the Holiday Wishes set so that the presents would be behind the couple.  Then I was ready to remove all my masks and color in the shadows: IG 1 and 2, noses: OR 1, scarves: LG 3,4 and PL 1, and 2, stockings and presents, both of which were the same pinks and greens on the scarves.
  The shaker and rest of card were assembled the same way as the blue card with the exception of the joy die cut.  On the pink card, I die cut the joy out of white fun foam and green glitter paper.  I cut out a 2 by 3 inch piece of white fun foam and added a layer of Stick-It adhesive to each side so that I would have a foam sticker.  I removed the liner one letter at a time and carefully added the joy die cut over the foam.  Then I removed the back liner and attached it to the assembled card.  Done!

If you don't have Aleene's paste, just use a white paste and add glitter to it before you apply it or apply it and sprinkle glitter over it before it dries.  Mixing the glitter into the paste ensures it wont fall off, but either way works.

I hope you enjoyed this post and learned something new! Thanks for hanging out with me and be sure to stop by Laura's shop for more inspiration and tempting crafty goodness!  Feel free to ask any questions and let me know what you think.  See you later!

Much love!