Susie Rostad

March Specials

2012-03-01T06:19:00.000-08:00

Happy March 1st! This month CTMH is offering the Stamp of the Month set "Potential".

And that's not all....CTMH announced they will be offering a FREE Art Philosophy Cricut Cartridge to anyone that signs up to become a consultant during the month of March! Yahoo!

That's over $400 worth of product for just $99! Contact me this month if you'd like to join the CTMH family!

Enjoy!

2012-02-27T11:14:00.000-08:00

The NEW stamp set Enjoy! is geared toward gift tags for food, but it doesn't have to be used just for that. I came up with a 5" x 5" card using pear and black cardstock and the stamp of the month set for March called "Potential" (available soon!) and I also used the set Universal Backgrounds. The flower was cut using the Art Philosophy cartridge and I added a black button and a tag. It's a pretty simple card with some bright colors and fun to share!

Enjoy your day!

Mojo Monday #230

2012-02-27T10:52:00.000-08:00

This week's sketch from Mojo Monday's blog offers a round or square sketch to create your card. This will be Julee Tilman's last sketch for a few months as she's expecting twin boys in March!! Congratulations Julee!!! You don't just get one blessing you get two!!!

For my card, I chose the square sketch. I have a card base that measures 5" x 5" made from black cardstock. I chose the B&T paper called Cruisin' from CTMH. The solid cardstock is Juniper and the dog was stamped on white, then I colored it with a gray watercolor pencil and the ink from Grey Wool using a blender pen. The collar has a glitter button sewn on and the ribbon in the corner has a large gem button.

For the stamp set, I chose CTMH's new, adorable set called A Bowwow. At a price tag of only $6.95 it's a bargain! And the dog is so cute!

Like the inside sentiment says,"I hope you have a doggone good day!" Thanks for stopping by!

Hot off the Press!!!!

2012-02-24T06:39:00.001-08:00

Close To My Heart is offering an amazing offer in the month of March! I'm super excited to share the news. During the month of March CTMH is offering a FREE Cricut Art Philosophy Cartridge to anyone that signs up to become an independent consultant....how cool is that???? If you have the cartridge already then you can choose $100 in Select Product Credit instead! Wow, what a great deal!!! Here are the details:

If this is too hard to read, then let me retype the information:

NOW IS A GREAT TIME TO JOIN CLOSE TO MY HEART because when you sign up as a new Consultant between March 1–31, you'll receive a FREE Cricut® Art Philosophy collection*! The collection's retail price of $99 adds incredible value to your New Consultant Kit and will give you hours of creative fun with the included exclusive Cricut® cartridge, three coordinating My Acrylix® D-size stamp sets, and three sheets of matching Dimensional Elements shapes. Already own the collection? You can always give your free one as a gift or choose to receive $100 in select product credit** instead. Now is the time to embrace the philosophy of fun—Consultant and Cricut® fun!

*Offer available March 1—31, 2012. No additional tax is charged on the Cricut® collection when ordered during enrollment. Cricut® is a registered trademark of Provo Craft & Novelty, Inc. All rights reserved.
**Additional requirements and limitations regarding the redemption and shipping of Select Product Credit apply. Select Product Credit is added to new Consultant account following approval of enrollment.
Embrace the Philosophy of Fun Get a FREE Cricut® Art Philosophy collection in March

So if becoming a consultant interests you and you have always wanted the Cricut Art Philosophy cartridge and love receiving a 22% discount on CTMH products then March would be the month to sign-up. Contact me if you'd like to become a CTMH consultant!

This is a photo of all the products you will receive when you become a Close To My Heart consultant.

Anything is Possible!

2012-02-22T16:29:00.000-08:00

I just love this stamp set that will be available on March 1st and the paper from Authentique has such fun patterns and colors. I used the Chocolate Grosgrain Striped Ribbon from CTMH and added a button with ribbon. The butterflies were cut using the Cricut AP Cartridge from CTMH and then embossed using the Big Shot.

The card has rich warm tones with a chocolate cardstock base and some light aqua tones with the chocolate color are just yummy! That is if you can call a card "Yummy" LOL! Thanks for stopping by!

"Potential" Card

2012-02-21T19:16:00.000-08:00

I have made several posts today. I guess I'm on a role:-) This card features some fun new paper from Authentique that matches the CTMH "Sunset" color just perfectly! I really love when paper colors come together!

The card features butterflies, a flower and leaves that were cut from the Cricut, the scalloped oval was cut with a Nestability and the sentiment shape was cut free-hand. This stamp set will be available very soon for the March Stamp of the Month. I wasn't sure I'd like this set but it's been really fun to play with!

Here's a close-up. The flower has a black opaque in the center and the leaves are scored to give it a more-realistic appearance. The butterflies have mocha opaques as their center and they were glued on with glue dots.

The inside greeting is from Card Chatter-Love and I thought it went well with the outside sentiment!

Thanks for stopping by!

Mojo Monday #229

2012-02-21T11:46:00.000-08:00

This week over at the Mojo Monday Blogspot they have another fun sketch designed by Mary Fish to inspire us. Here's the sketch she came up with:

I chose a 5" x 6 1/2" base with dark chocolate, sunset, & crystal blue cardstock. The B&T paper is from a 6" x 6" pad from Authentique Papers called Gathering. I cut the flower at 2 1/2" using the Art Philosophy Cartridge again. The flourish was also cut with that cartridge, cut at 1". I chose the March Stamp of the Month that will be available March 1st-31st and it is called "Potential". I used Silver Glitz Glitter Gel which at $2.75 is a huge bargain. It works terrific for the "bling" look and costs very little. I like this sentiment because it reminds me of the verse in scripture from Matthew 19:26 --With God, all things are possible.

Thanks for stopping by!

You Are....Original

2012-02-21T07:04:00.000-08:00

Close To My Heart offers a special each month called "The Stamp of the Month". If you spend $50 in merchandise you can purchase the SOTM for just $5 more or you can purchase the set alone for $17.95. In April, the SOTM is called "You Are...." It's a fun set and I used it for this guy card. I chose a Bamboo cardstock base cut at 5 1/2" x 12". I used Outdoor Denim cardstock embossed using the Big Shot and then cut strips from the B&T paper pack Victory. This is the perfect "male" paper pack with camouflage, navy, brown and neutral tones. The shapes were cut using the Art Philosophy cartridge (a must-have for card-makers!)The "Original" banner was scored twice at each end so that it stands out from the rest of the card.

The inside pocket holds a gift card. You score the center line at 6", then at 4 1/4" and I rotate my paper 180 degrees and score again at 4 1/4". Then you can use a 1/2" circle punch half-way into the center to punch your first mark and I use a 2" square punch to create the rest of the gift card pocket. Have a great day!

It's A Zoo Card!

2012-02-20T19:47:00.000-08:00

On February 28th, I'll be hosting a card workshop and this will be one of the cards you can make. Let me know if you'd like to join the class. This baby card uses a retired set from CTMH called "It's a Zoo". The faces were stamped twice with different colors so they could be popped out with 3-D tape. The banner was created with the Pennant Alphabet stamp set. I used Autumn Terracotta paper embossed with the Big Shot and chocolate cardstock also run through the Big Shot. The sentiment tag was cut using the Cricut Art Philosophy cartridge and the sentiment is from the (now retired) January Stamp of the Month called "Little Reminder".

This shows the 3-D faces:

Thanks for stopping by!

Open House Photos

2012-02-19T06:19:00.000-08:00

Thank you ladies for attending my open house on Saturday! What a fun morning we had together. Here's a glimpse into the morning:

Sherri and Elaine were working on the FREE scrapbooking make-n-take project:

This is a view of the table display with new catalogs, order forms, upcoming workshops and Stamp of the Month specials:

This is the Man-card workshop cards that I'm hosting on Wednesday, March 7th, from 6-9 pm at my home:

Here are the cards for the "Baby/Wedding/Misc. Workshop" on February 28th, from 6-9 p.m.:

This is the FREE card make-n-take that customers could create featuring the new set Fashionista and some fun Cricut-cut shapes:

This is my friend, Bridget, who isn't a huge fan of girly-girl things and I had to have proof that she made a scrapbooking page with a flower:-)

My friend Karen and her daughter Cassandra are working on the card make-n-take. Cassandra was the lucky winner of the door prize drawing for a FREE paper pack of her choice. She chose "Stella"....good choice!!

Thanks again for the fun morning and if anyone wants to sign-up for the workshops, just send me an e-mail. Thanks for stopping by!

Just Chillin'

2012-02-16T05:43:00.000-08:00

I definitely can't complain about our MN weather this year, however, this card definitely makes me long for the long, hot days of summer! I used the stamp set Just Chillin' and the paper pack Footloose. This paper has the bright bold colors of lagoon and pear. I ripped the bamboo-colored B&T paper to replicate a sandy beach and used a skewer stick as my umbrella post. I attached the stick with a glue dot and mounted my umbrella with 3-D mounting tape. The bow is made from the new CTMH Baker's Twine Paradise Collection. The sentiment is from Card Chatter- Love. Thanks for stopping by.

Born To Ride

2012-02-15T19:32:00.000-08:00

I am thrilled that the new CTMH catalog features many terrific stamp sets for the men in our lives. This stamp set is called "Born To Ride". It is a motorcyle-themed stamp set and has tons of potential for really fun cards! The base of this card measures 5" x 6 1/2" and is made from white cardstock. The black cardstock was embossed with a diamond shaped texture plate and I used B & T paper called "Cruisin". The sentiment shape was cut using the Art Philosophy cartridge. I embossed the motorcycle by stamping the image in Black ink first, then re stamped with a Versamark pad and used clear embossing powder. I masked the motorcycle and did 2nd and 3rd generation stamping. I used Silver Glitz Glitter Gel on the circles with stars and additionally on the upper right corner. Twilight cardstock was used above and below the image and also embossed with the Big Shot. That piece of cardstock was cut from the Cricut at 1 1/4" and then I cut that in half to mount above and below the image.

This next card uses the same stamp set but it's on a black cardstock base with colonial white and cranberry cardstock. The motorcycle image was embossed and the shapes were cut using the AP Cartridge. I used crochet thread and wrapped it around 5 times and then taped the back to hold it and tied it tight to create a center to place the sentiment over. The stars were cut at 2 1/2" and then embossed in the Big Shot. These 2 cards are 2 of 3 cards being offered as a workshop in a couple of weeks. I will be hosting a workshop focused on masculine cards. I'm excited to see if there's interest. Thanks for stopping by!

MOJO Monday #228

2012-02-14T12:58:00.000-08:00

For this weeks Mojo Monday sketch I chose the B&T paper from CTMH called Sweetheart. The other cardstock used was Kraft and Cotton Candy. I cut the shapes with the Art Philosophy cartridge. The sentiment is from the CTMH stamp set Card Chatter-Love. This has been my favorite stamp set the past few weeks and I seem to have a huge stock of wedding or anniversary cards now!!!

Here's a close-up:

Thanks for stopping by!

Happy Valentine's Day!!!

2012-02-14T12:41:00.000-08:00

Hope you're having a wonderful Valentine's Day! I've been working on projects for the upcoming Open House and here are a couple make-n-take options that people can create:

This first one uses the B&T paper called "Typeset". I used a couple different stamp sets: "Vintage Type" (D1481 $17.95) and "Blue Ribbon" (C1464 $13.95). I used the Art Philosophy cartridge to cut the letters, star, tab and banner shapes. I sewed the banner with embroidery thread and used buttons on the ends attached with glue dots. This scrapbook page also features my youngest son, Josiah, who is in the 10th grade and truly thinks "School Rocks"!!! I think he does:-)

This second lay-out uses the B&T paper called Roxie.
I used the AP cartridge to cut the flowers at 2 1/2" and 3" and then overlayed them and used an adorable button from the Buttons Basic Assortment Collection. I used picot ribbon and punched holes in the base cardstock using my eyelet tool. The stamp set is called Instant Memories. The photo mat is cut at 5 1/2" x 7 1/2" from black cardstock. The leaves were cut with the Cricut as well and I cut them at 2 1/2" and then used my Scor-Pal to add scored lines to look like veining. The tag was cut and stamped with words from the retired set Fill in the Blank. The letters "perfect" were also cut using the AP cartridge. Thanks for stopping by!

Kite Card

2012-02-11T05:48:00.000-08:00

This card was CAS'd from this very talented blogger, Johanna. I'm not exactly sure what country she is from because I'm unable to speak the German, Swedish or Danish language she might be using! :-)
The card base is Colonial White cardstock cut to be an A2-size card. The scored paper was twilight and then I sanded it to reveal the white core and sponged the edges in Chocolate ink. I used Kraft Cardstock and did lots of stitching. The kite was cut using small scraps of paper I had lying around. I cut the letters using the Art Philosophy cartridge. This was a time-consuming card but fun to try! Thanks for popping in!

Envelope Card using Stella Paper

2012-02-10T12:56:00.000-08:00

This card has a 5 1/2" x 12" colonial white cardstock base. I scored it at 4 1/4" and 8 1/2", then I used a circle cutter as a guide to make my rounded front. The paper pack Stella was used on the front along with olive cardstock that was embossed in the Big Shot with a SU embossing folder (Vintage Wallpaper, I believe). I used the stamp set Enjoy! for the front scallop design with the sentiment from Just For You.

I sewed the front panel as well as the chocolate striped ribbon on the front. The flower was made from dark brown cardstock cut using the Cricut® Art Philosophy Cartridge. The leaves were also cut with this cartridge and then scored to add veining. I added a green gem to the center of the flower for sparkle!

I used velcro-adhesive pieces for proper closure to ensure it stays shut when you give it away. Thanks for stopping by!

Florentine Fun!

2012-02-10T12:44:00.000-08:00

It's always enjoyable to use new papers and this new paper pack from CTMH called "Florentine" is so soft and warm....just love it! It's even better in person than the catalog photos. The base is from Colonial White cardstock CTMH and it measures 5 1/4" x 5 1/4". The B&T paper is from "Florentine". I added some zig-zag stitching, the flowers are from the new Paradise Paper Flowers (Z1710 $5.95 for 68 flowers). The flower color was Sunset but I used "Goldrush ink" and Crystal blue cardstock as well. The sentiment is from Verve Stamps. Here's a close-up shot:

This sentiment is from a retired Stamp of the Month set:

Front view:

Thanks for stopping by!

Open House

2012-02-09T18:19:00.000-08:00

If you're in the area and can join me, please do!
Here are all the details:

Hope to see you Saturday, February 18th, 2012!!!

Card Chatter-Love

2012-02-09T08:14:00.000-08:00

I LOVE this stamp set and have used it over and over again for Valentine's Day, a wedding card or anniversary card. It has great sentiments and the Scalloped Heart is so fun!
The base is from CTMH's colonial white cardstock. The patterned paper is from My Mind's Eye with a tulip cardstock backing. I used the Cricut to cut the heart and tag. The heart was run through my mini-crimper (from days of old:-) The scalloped circle was cut with a Nestabilities-type die. I stamped the "Love" heart with Tulip ink and cut it out free-hand. Then I attached a sheer gray ribbon with a tulip button. The strips were cut from Tulip and Grey Wool cardstock (CTMH)and then I used a Large Polka Dots embossing folder from Quickutz to add some texture.

The inside uses a sentiment from the Art Philosophy collection from CTMH. I used that cartridge with my Cricut to cut the shapes. I added a scalloped border by removing the guards on my corner rounder.

This is a close-up shot:

A Side-view....thanks for stopping by!

MOJO Monday #227

2012-02-06T07:55:00.000-08:00

It's Mojo Monday and this week's sketch was created by the talented Debbie Carriere. The challenge includes one winner for every 50 entries, up to a max of SEVEN winners!!! Winners will receive the Verve Stamps set of their choice.

I chose a black cardstock base with CTMH cranberry cardstock, patterned paper from CTMH's Elemental Paper Packet (X7141B $9.95) and also from Echo Park's "A Boy's Life" 6 x 6 paper pad. I chose the "Ten Things" stamp set from CTMH (C1474 $13.95) so I can journal ten things I love about my sweetheart for the upcoming Valentine's Day holiday. The numbered strips are from CTMH's "10 Things Pocket" (Z1412 $3.95). The ribbon is black grosgrain with the new CTMH baker's twine Neutral Assortment (Z1701 $4.95) with a button on top. Thanks for stopping by!

Some of the NEW Paper Packs from CTMH

2012-02-03T10:24:00.000-08:00

Here's a few images from the newly released catalog for Spring/Summer 2012 from Close To My Heart.
This is "Cruisin"

This is "Florentine"

This is "Footloose"

This is "Stella"

I will post more in the days to come. Contact me if you'd like to place an order and receive your FREE catalog/idea book.

iSpy Sketches Challenge ISSC01

2012-02-03T10:07:00.000-08:00

A new sketch challenge has begun over at iSpy Sketches.
It's for fun and inspiration and I decided to play along. I chose the Stella B&T paper from CTMh with an olive cardstock base. The stamp set I am using is called "A Tree" (A1124 $6.95) and it's a new release at CTMH. The cocoa cardstock was embossed with my Big Shot and a large dots embossing folder from Quick Kutz. I added some stitching and glitter along with some new CTMH baker's twine (Paradise Asst. Z1702 $4.95) and 3 buttons. The shapes were cut at 3 1/2" (olive) and 3 1/4" (colonial white) using the Art Philosophy Cricut cartridge from CTMH. Thanks for stopping by!

From their blog......

Here's how to play:

Create a paper crafting project (card, scrap book page or 3D item), based on the sketch provided.

Post your creation on your blog or an online gallery (using a code ISSC01), and link it here with the inlinkz widget below. Please provide a direct link to your post - not the generic link to your blog.

A new challenge will be posted every Friday at 12.01 AM EST, and you have until noon on Wednesday EST to submit your entry.

You may enter as many times as you like, but please provide a newly designed project with a new link for each additional project.

We will choose the top 2 creations to be featured in our "Top 2 Thursday" post where we will announce who we have picked :) The winners will receive their very own iSpy Sketches blog badge!

Don't forget that you may combine our challenges with others and use supplies from any company that you wish :)

Have fun and we look forward to "spying:" your creations!

Mojo Monday #226

2012-02-02T11:24:00.000-08:00

I chose the circle style for this weeks Mojo Monday sketch. I used my largest scalloped circle Nestabilities for the base. The paper I chose was smoothie & colonial white cardstock from CTMH, Roxie B&T paper, the new baker's twine from CTMH, some cream ribbon and black opaque gems. The sentiment is stamped in smoothie ink and is from "Remarkable Wreath" ($13.95 C1473) and the butterfly is from the stamp set "Delight" (C1452 $13.95) and was also stamped in smoothie ink. It's very subtle but the colonial white scalloped circle was stamped with desert ink and I used a background stamp from Universal Backgrounds in 2nd and 3rd generation stamping just around the edge. It just gave it a bit more color. Thanks for stopping by!

Let the Ordering Begin....the Spring Summer Idea Book is here!

2012-02-01T06:53:00.000-08:00

Today it's official...the latest Close To My Heart catalog for 2012 is here! It's full of new ideas, fresh new stamp sets and great papers for guys and gals. Call today if you'd like to host a home gathering and earn free product with a $150 minimum party order.

Also this month is the new "Thoughtful Tidings" Stamp of the Month! This is one of my favorites. The sayings are great and it works very well with the Cricut Art Philosophy cartridge from CTMH.

The Final Day for these Products from CTMH

2012-01-31T06:37:00.000-08:00

Contact me today if you'd like to place an order before they officially retire these products.

Gift Card Pocket Card for Valentine's Day

2012-01-28T18:36:00.000-08:00

Happy Saturday! This card features a gift card pocket. The black cardstock base is cut at 5 1/2" x 12" and scored at 4 1/4", 6" and then rotated 180 degrees and scored again at 4 1/4" to create the gift card pocket. The paper I chose is grey wool from CTMH and B&T "Love Me" from My Mind's Eye. The hearts & pennants were cut using the Cricut. I did some sewing on the inside of the card called "over-sewing". I added some lace and embossed the gray paper using my Big Shot and an embossing folder from Quickkutz.

The 6" score line should be folded in toward the center and the 4 1/4" score lines will be folded to create a sandwich. Tape just the edge of the pocketed area and using a 1/2" punch half-way into the pocket you've just created, make a punch in the center and then I used a square punch (just the lip of it) to create openings on both side of the 1/2" mark. This probably doesn't make sense but hopefully the photo will help. Thanks for stopping by!

MOJO Monday #225

2012-01-26T09:28:00.000-08:00

The MOJO sketch this week comes from the very talented Julee Tilman. I must confess I struggled coming up with a unique design for this sketch, but here it is. I chose a masculine theme because I really love this new Workshop on the Go called Cruisin' from CTMH. The white base card is 5" x 6.5" and the red squares are 2" x 2". I cut the images from the WOTG stamp set and used 3D foam tape. The banner in the center uses a baker's twine ribbon and button for accent and the car was stamped several times in different ink colors (honey,grey wool and black) to accent the grill and tires.

Here's the front:

Side view:

Inside greeting is personalized for my nephew's upcoming 30th Birthday. I used the stamp set from CTMH called "A Little Everything" for the sentiment. Thanks for looking!

Coming Soon

2012-01-24T15:54:00.000-08:00

The New Release of the CTMH Spring/Summer 2012 catalog is just a few days away. This card features the February Stamp of the Month "Thoughtful Tidings". I used the retired paper pack "Wings" with chocolate cardstock and a wide brown & white striped ribbon. The flowers and sentiment shape were cut using the Art Philosophy cartridge. Pretty simple card which is what's great about CTMH products!

Here's another example of simple: This card has an embossed background with twilight cardstock from CTMH. The sentiment shape & snowflake were cut using the CTMH AP Cricut cartridge as well. I stamped the snowflake with Twilight Ink, added some Prisma glitter and a gem for the center and it's complete. Fast and Easy!

Valentine's Day Cards

2012-01-20T20:29:00.000-08:00

It's soon another fun holiday so today's post features a couple Valentine card ideas. I'm teaching my monthly workshop at the senior highrise and wanted to come up with some fun Valentines cards for the ladies to make. This first one is a standard 4 1/4" x 5 1/2" card:

Close-up:

Paper: CTMH Colonial White & Kraft cardstock, My Mind's Eye "Love Me" designer paper
Stamps:CTMH Card Chatter-Love (D1464 $17.95)
Accessories: sewing machine, small paper crimper, embossing powder on the "Love" heart, red gems, cream ribbon
Ink: CTMH Tulip, Hollyhock & Versamark for embossing

This is an easel card. The base is 5" x 10" and it's scored at 5" and again at 7 1/2" and an additional 5" x 5" piece of cardstock is attached to create the front of the card.

Side-view:

Card sitting as an easel:

The inside verse:

Paper:CTMH Blush, Chocolate, Kraft & White cardstock
Stamps:CTMH Card Chatter-Love (D1464); Universal Backgrounds (D1477 $17.95)
Accessories: paper crimper, polka dots texture plate,lace, sheer chocolate ribbon, glitter, 3M foam tape, scalloped border punch & Kraft color-ready borders (retired)
Ink:Blush & Chocolate from Close To My Heart

Just a Note Card

2012-01-19T12:59:00.000-08:00

This card features the new "Just A Note" stamp set that will be available February 1st for purchase from the CTMH Spring/Summer 2012 Idea Book. The card shows off some of the new patterned paper in the Stella paper pack! I love the bold colors and fun floral look. I chose the Sunset, Black and Lagoon inks. The string is embroidery thread from Walmart and the button was added with the small tag cut from the Cricut. Thanks for looking!

Another Stamp of the Month Card

2012-01-18T20:34:00.000-08:00

Just a short post tonight. This card uses the CTMH Stamp of the Month and I stamped a small star on the "January" and the "30" because my eldest son is turning 20 that day. I'm not convinced this is "manly" enough for his birthday but it will have to do. Boys aren't necessarily interested in cards anyways, right??!!

The base of the card is with Grey Wool cardstock from CTMH with Outdoor Denim and some plaid paper from a local craft store. I cut the arrow, banner and numbers using the Cricut and the AP Cartridge also from CTMH. The sewing was done with my sewing machine and I need to learn how to sew straight...ugh! Thanks for stopping by!

Cruisin' Workshop on the Go Kit

2012-01-14T10:32:00.000-08:00

This card is for my Dad's 75th birthday. I thought this Workshop on the Go (WOTG) kit was perfect for any male in your life. It will be available for purchase beginning February 1st, 2012, and the kit includes 1- My Reflections® Cruisin' Paper Packet, 1-My Acrylix® Cruisin' Workshop Stamp Set, 2-White Daisy Cardstock Sheets, 1-Bottle Caps packet, 1-Dimensional Elements Numbers and 1-Instructional Brochure.All for $29.95. Contact me if you'd like to order this!

I started this card with a black cardstock base at 5 1/2" x 5 1/2". The cranberry cardstock strip has a piece from the Cruisin B&T paper with handstitching. I paper pierced the holes using the CTMH Ruler (Z1471 $9.95)The grey wool paper is also from the Cruisin' B&T paper packet and I wound black embroidery thread around this and tied the section where the button sits and added 2 tags cut using the Cricut and the AP Cartridge from CTMH. The tire tracks & car were stamped in Grey Wool and the car was mounted with 3-D foam tape. The gas pump was stamped in Juniper ink & the 2 signs were stamped in Cranberry and Honey and mounted with 3-D foam tape.

The inside has a piece of Juniper cardstock run through the Big Shot with a tire tread embossing folder and the strip came off one of the border-edges attached to the B&T paper from the Cruisin' paper pack. The sentiment was from 2 different sets. The "Happy Birthday" was from the CTMH set "Say It In Style" and the "Dad" was from a Verve set. Thanks for stopping by!

More Fun with Fashionista

2012-01-13T13:19:00.000-08:00

Today's post will be short & sweet. This 5" x 5" card could work well for a man with the dk.chocolate, sunset and Stella B&T cardstock with ribbon and sentiment but....

add a little Fashionista and you have a really fun girl card!!!! Thanks for stopping by!

Valentine's Mug

2012-01-12T16:41:00.000-08:00

If you don't mind a lot of putsy work, this project might be for you:-) I looked high and low for a cute mug-style card template and came across a teacup that I stretched in Microsoft Word. I used the Cricut to cut out a cupcake shape for the top and then traced the teacup and the cupcake top to cut this card out. I cut an additional piece of cardstock in red for the mug (layered over the white base) and then I cut a doilie shape using the Art Philosophy Cartridge and my Cricut. I only used a small side of it for the lacey look on the front. The sentiments & heart shape are from the December SOTM "Mad About You" and each piece was sponged with chocolate ink. I added a lot of Glitz Glitter Gel for sparkle. Thanks for looking!

Here's a close-up of the top:

Stella with Fashionista

2012-01-12T15:56:00.000-08:00

Some new CTMH product has arrived and will be available for purchase February 1st, which is right around the corner. I love the bright bold colors of the new paper pack called "Stella" (X7147B $9.95. It boasts colors such as lagoon, sunset and tulip.
For my first card I used a black base with colonial white cardstock and B&T paper from the Stella paper pack. I also added the new Baker's Twine Paradise Assortment (Z1702 $4.95 for 20 yds. each in 4 colors). It matches perfectly! The lagoon flowers (Paradise Paper Flowers Z1710 $5.95) with tulip brads are also new to the CTMH line-up of products! The fashionable lady and sentiment are from the new set called "Fashionista" (D1504 $17.95) I stamped the lady with black ink and then stamped the same image again in tulip and cut the purse and skirt out to add to the black image. The sentiment shape was cut using the Cricut at 2" and 2 1/4".

This card has a colonial base with black cardstock. I paper pierced the black and used a white gel pen to look like stitching. The olive cardstock was cut at 3" and then run through the Big Shot with an embossing folder. The heart was cut using Stella paper with a tulip button and black & white baker's twine bow and the B&T paper was also from the new Stella paper pack. The sentiment is also from the new set "Fashionista" and I cut the scallop square with a Nestability. Thanks for looking!

Ticket Cards

2012-01-11T09:44:00.000-08:00

I am always glad when CTMH brings back a really great Stamp Of the Month like this one called "American Celebration" (D1458 $17.95) It worked well to make these cards with the Cricut cutting the ticket die and the stars were cut at 3" with the Cricut as well. The base is white cardstock and the colors I chose were lagoon, black and tulip on the second card. I used some baker's twine-type ribbon with a button and added a small tag cut using the Cricut as well. The black background paper was run through the Big Shot with a Sizzix embossing folder.

The scallop was cut at 3" and the stars were a few different sizes. Thanks for stopping by!

School Rocks Card

2012-01-10T08:01:00.000-08:00

Here's my entry to the Deconstructing Jen sketch #33. It’s the first week of the month so that means they are sponsored this week! Their fantastic sponsor is Scrapping Great Deals and they have very graciously offered a $25.00 gift certificate to the winner! How awesome is that?? So you can get your entries in by January 11, 2012 at 8 pm CST to be entered to win! I thought it would be fun to play!

My card features the super cute set from CTMH called "School Rocks" (B1396 $9.95).
The card base is made from Kraft cardstock, also CTMH (Z1375 $9.50 for 24 sheets).
The B&T paper is from the Typeset Level 2 Paper Packet (X7139B $9.95) along with vineyard berry, black, & colonial white cardstock. The stars & flourishes were cut using the CTMH Art Philosophy cartridge and my Cricut, then I ran them through my paper crimper. The bow is black & white baker's twine (purchased at Hobby Lobby). The scalloped strip was run through the Big Shot with a zigzag patterned embossing folder. and buttons were added with glue dots. One of the great things about the new background & texture paper from CTMH is that it comes with a designer strip to be cut off and used as a border and that is where the alphabet strip came from. It worked perfectly with this card! Thanks for looking!

Here's the inside greeting:

Another view showing the 3-D foam tape used on the stars and flourishes:

MOJO Monday #223

2012-01-09T12:00:00.000-08:00

I'm playing along once again with the Mojo Monday sketch. I've chosen to use the "You & Me" background and texture paper from a promotion that CTMH ran a few months back. The base of the card is 5" x 6.5" and it's made from colonial white cardstock. The scalloped circles are cut using Nestabilites, the sentiment is also from the "You & Me" kit, along with the mini pennants & flourish. The cardstock colors are from CTMH and I used chocolate, creme brulee and smoothie. I used mocha opaques (Z1333 $2.95 from CTMH) between the pennants and the ribbon is from a local hobby store.

Here's the sketch:

Baby Cards with the January SOTM

2012-01-09T07:32:00.000-08:00

Here's another set of cards using CTMH's Stamp of the Month for January called "Little Reminder." These cards can be customized by stamping a star over the month and day of the birth or the date can be circled. The scallop circle was cut at 3" with the Cricut using the Art Philosophy cartridge from Close To My Heart. The chocolate & sky cardstock was scored at 1/2" increments and sanded to reveal the white core. I used the Big Shot and the embossing folder from Sizzix called "Swiss Dots" for the pink paper. The ribbon is from a local hobby store, as well as the buttons. This stamp set is really getting some use. I like it more and more, the more I use it! Thanks for stopping by!

Close up of the girl card:

Close up of the boy card:

I hope I don't get this desperate!

2012-01-06T13:24:00.000-08:00

My friend, Karen, sent me this funny video! Enjoy!

Celebrating 1 year!

2012-01-06T12:25:00.000-08:00

Today is my 1 year anniversary as a Close To My Heart Consultant! That year went SO fast! I love this company and look forward to many more years of stamping with CTMH and getting back into the scrapbooking arena (I've really been slacking:-)

I'm on a pink/black kick...not sure if it's this unseasonably mild MN weather or what?? Typically in MN we'd be having -20 degrees and lots of snow on the ground but this year we've broken all the record books with 50+ degrees yesterday and 42 degrees today....it's just weird! Well, enough about the weather, on to my cards for today. I'm using up some retired paper called "Sweetheart" with white, black and hollyhock cardstock. I'm adoring the upcoming February SOTM so I've chosen that set again for my sentiments. The set is SO fun!

This first card has 3 flowers cut using the Cricut. I layered 2 flowers together and added a black brad for the center. The edges are sanded by holding the flower in your hand and swiping down on the outer edges with an emery board (CTMH Sanding Kit Z1294 $3.50). It works well doing it this way so you just get the edges. The leaves were cut at 1 1/2" with the Cricut as well. I added the scalloped border by removing the outside edge from my CTMH corner rounder (Z578 $7.95).The black cardstock was run through the Big Shot® with the swiss dots embossing folder. The ribbon is black and white grosgrain from Hobby Lobby.

Here's the inside sentiment, also from the February Stamp of the Month "Thoughtful Tidings" (S1202 $17.95 or $5 with a $50 order available in February 2012 only).

The next 2 cards use the Sweetheart B&T paper from CTMH along with the February SOTM and some black grosgrain ribbon.

Thanks for stopping by!

Tuesday Morning Sketch #127

2012-01-05T18:58:00.000-08:00

I created my sketch entry with CTMH's December SOTM called "Mad About You." I used the retired paper pack called "Sweetheart". Hollyhock, White and Grey Wool ink and cardstock were also used. The Cricut cut the tags and I added some gray brads and sheer ribbon to finish it off. Thanks for looking!

"Little Reminder"

2012-01-04T07:35:00.000-08:00

This month Close to My Heart is featuring their stamp set called "Little Reminder" as the Stamp of the Month (SOTM).

It can be purchased for $17.95 or with a purchase of $50 in product you can purchase it for an additional $5. It's a very fun set to personalize cards or scrapbook pages. The example I have is a card for my niece, Andrea, who is turning 15 on January 8th.
Here is a photo of the two of us taken on Christmas Eve:

The card has a colonial white cardstock base with Elemental B&T paper, sorbet, chocolate, creme brulee and olive cardstock. The flowers were cut with the Cricut and then the edges were sanded to expose the white core of the paper. The pennant was added by using part of a skewer stick and adding the chocolate striped grosgrain ribbon. The leaves were scored to add a veining appearance and the chocolate card stock was scored and sanded as well. Happy stamping!

MOJO Monday #222

2012-01-03T10:36:00.000-08:00

It's a brand new year and the start of a new month and that means it's time to kick off the January Mojo Madness CONTEST! There can be up to 7 winners for this weeks contest. Winners will be able to choose a Verve Stamp set of their choice. Fun, fun, fun!
Here is my entry:

My card features a brand new stamp set from CTMH® that will be available next month as the featured Stamp of the Month called "Thoughtful Tidings". It can be purchased for $17.95 or if you spend $50 in products it can be purchased for just $5! This is a very versatile set and I'm excited for next month (February 1-29, 2012) when it's available for purchase!
I used the B&T paper pack called "Elemental" and the AP Philosophy cartridge with my Cricut to cut the cute Creme Brulee-colored flowers and olive-colored leaves. The flowers have sanded edges to expose the white core of CTMH's cardstock. I used a brown brad for the flower center. The ribbon is also from CTMH called "Dark Chocolate Striped Grosgrain" (Z1617 for $6.95 and you receive 5 yards of ribbon). I used a colonial white cardstock base and chocolate cardstock for accenting color. Be sure to check out all the other entries at the link above. Thanks for stopping by!

Happy New Year 2012!

2012-01-02T19:45:00.000-08:00

Here is the list of stamp sets being retired at the end of January. Please keep in mind that there may be a few others that may have been missed. If you would like to order any of these sets before they are gone, please contact me before January 31, 2012.

Retiring Stamp Sets (that I have) Jan. 2012

A1101 Always in My Heart
A1102 A Posy
A1103 A Love
A1105 A Paisley
A1112 A Hop
B1323 Just the Ticket
B1350 Family Ties-Pets
B1351 You’re Sweet
B1352 Ms. Scrapbook
B1354 Boom!
B1372 Circle Together
C1305 Family
C1337 Just for Girls
1338 Just for Boys
C1339 Kanji Phrases
C1351 You Did It
C1356 Extreme Happiness
C1359 Sweet Baby
C1360 It’s a Zoo
C1364 TLC
C1368 Treetops
C1390 So Lucky
C1397 Smiles
C1399 On the Edge
C1403 In the Month of February
C1404 In the Month of March
C1405 In the Month of April
C1411 Birthday Boy
C1415 In the Month of May
C1416 In the Month of June
C1417 In the Month of July
C1422 Unity
C1437 Happy Moments
C1443 Heart Attack
C1445 Bless This Nest
C1448 Magic Tabs
C1453 Summer Breeze
C1461 Salutation Seals
D1187 For Every Occasion
D1191 Friendship Blessings
D1254 Soul Mates
D1297 Daydre am
D1320 Shining Star
D1322 Adorning Corners
D1330 Connections
D1337 Love Always
D1346 You Rock
D1348 Priceless Love Word Puzzle
D1357 Post Card-Travel Series
D1361 Thank You
D1365 True Happiness
D1378 Notice the Details
D1399 Dream Big
D1402 Togetherness
D1408 A Little Everything
D1410 One of a Kind
D1413 Cherished Flourishes
D1415 Springtime
D1426 Over the Rainbow
D1427 Tasty Treats
D1431 Happy Holidays
D1438 Circle of Love
D1460 Love Ya!
D1463 Backgrounds & Borders
D1465 Fill in the Blank
D1466 Catching Waves
D1468 On This Day
D1470 Dreams Come True
D1474 Hero

Rock the Block Promotion

2011-12-29T14:34:00.000-08:00

This promotion is available now through January 31st, 2012. My Creations® Collage Cubes (9 sturdy white chipboard blocks in a 6 1/2" x 6 1/2" tray. Blocks are 2" x 2" x 2") and the Rock the Block E-size stamp set make up this month's offer. Purchase $25 from the Fall/Winter 2011 Idea book and this promotion can be added for just $15! That's nearly $30 in savings! Contact me if you'd like to create this unique idea for yourself or as a gift!

Inspired by Jeanette

2011-12-29T14:03:00.000-08:00

This card was reproduced from an entry on Jeanette Lynton's blog and I just love how this card was created to look like a poinsetta! The colors and sanding are just beautiful!
I used Juniper, Desert Sand and Hollyhock cardstock & inks with a white cs base. The Typeset B&T paper was used for the strip of Juniper color and the bottom portion was created with colonial white c.s. and a stamp from the April "You Are..." SOTM that will be available in 2012! The new catalog has wonderful Stamp of the Month sets and I'm so excited for you to see them all!

The "Snowflakes" (D1480 $17.95) stamp set was used to create the poinsetta. I cut the largest snowflake at 3 1/2", the middle layer at 3 1/4" and the smallest snowflake was cut at 1 3/4" and then stamped with Hollyhock ink. I placed 6 Pearl Opaque Adhesive Gems (Z1336 $2.95 for 108 opaques) for the center and cut the leaves at 2 1/2" on the Cricut using juniper cardstock. I scored the leaves in the center and then sanded the center score line and the edges. The snowflake layers were also sanded on the edges to reveal the white core. I used cream-colored crochet thread (from Walmart) for the ribbon and wrapped it around 5 times. The sentiment is from "Say It In Style" (D1283 $17.95) I stamped the bottom with Desert Sand ink and sponged the whole piece to darken up the colonial white c.s. Thanks for stopping by!

New Idea Books Have Arrived!

2011-12-26T10:56:00.000-08:00

The new catalog has arrived for the Spring/Summer 2012 season. It's full of fresh new papers, fun ideas and tons of inspiration for projects, cards, and scrapbooking layouts! Contact me if you'd like to host a party to receive FREE products and create make-n-takes at your party! I would love to demo the wonderful Close To My Heart products for you and your friends!

Due to copyright laws, all photos have been deleted. Sorry!

Tri-Shutter Snowflake Card

2011-12-21T05:44:00.000-08:00

My father-in-law turns 70 on Christmas day so this is the card being sent his way. The card base is 6" x 12" of colonial white from CTMH. I used the directions from Splitcoast Stampers as my guide for scoring at 2", 4", 8" and 10" and then you cut from the 2" mark to the 10" mark 1 1/2" from the top and bottom. The folding can be tricky but if you watch the tutorial they have, it's really a snap. The B&T paper is from the "Wonderland" Level 2 paper packet and I used Sky cardstock that I ran through the Big Shot with a snowflake texture plate. The snowflakes were cut using the AP cartridge and my Cricut and stamped with Sky and Twilight ink from CTMH. The chocolate cardstock was cut with a scallop-circle Nestability and the sentiment is from "A Little Everything" (D1408 $17.95) in the CTMH Spring/Summer 2010 catalog.
Thanks for stopping by and have a Merry Christmas this weekend!

Snowflake Card

2011-12-21T05:32:00.000-08:00

The card base was cut using the Art Philosophy cartridge cut at 5 1/2". The snowflakes were also cut using the AP cartridge and then they were stamped with "Sky" ink and dotted with Glitz Glitter Gel with a sewn on button for the center. The B&T paper used was from the "Dreamin" Level 2 paper packet and the stamp set was CTMH® "Snowflakes" (D1480 $17.95). Despite the lack of snow in our state so far this year, it still should be snowing and today marks the Winter Solstice so let the snowing begin!

Rock the Block Promotion

2011-12-19T12:59:00.000-08:00

You can get your own "Rock the Block" Promotion now through the end of January 2012! When you place a minimum order of $25 from the Autumn/Winter 2011 Idea Book, you can get two valuable new products for just $15: the My Creations® Collage Cubes (a Spring/Summer 2012 sneak-peek product!) and the exclusive My Acrylix® Rock the Block E-size stamp set (available only during this promotion). This Rock the Block promotion represents a retail savings of almost $30! You're going to love the collage cubes and the Rock the Block stamp set, which work together for interactive, fashionable fun!

Another Mojo sketch idea

2011-12-14T14:38:00.000-08:00

I liked the sketch so much from Monday's Mojo challenge that I decided to make another card. I am still making Christmas cards for my close friends in town that really don't need a photo card because they see us all the time (LOL), so I'm making them a special card. This card was made with the CTMH retired paper pack called "Mistletoe" and I used the Cricut to cut the tag & the holly leaves, I used a Nestability® scallop circle with a red CTMH button and some bakers twine for a bow. I ran some of the papers through a Sizzix texture plate or embossing folder Thanks for stopping by, I hope you're all ready for the Christmas season! I'm still working on it! Have a blessed day!

MOJO Monday #219

2011-12-12T13:26:00.000-08:00

This weeks sketch is done by Debbie Carriere. I chose the Wonderland paper from Close To My Heart with a colonial white base. I used the stamp set "Winter Joy" (C1468 $13.95) and the sentiment came from "Holiday Cheer" (B1381 $9.95) and "Say It In Style" (D1283 $17.95). Be sure to check out all the different MOJO Monday entries on the MOJO Monday blog. Thanks for stopping by!

Mojo Monday #218

2011-12-08T14:04:00.000-08:00

It's time for a Mojo Monday entry! This A2 card is a sympathy card with flowers cut using the CTMH Art Philosophy cartridge and CTMH Sonoma B&T paper pack. The sentiment is from Verve Stamps called "Forever in our Hearts" Thanks for stopping by!

Christmas Gift Card

2011-12-08T13:37:00.000-08:00

This is a standard A2 size gift-card that has glittered flowers for a wintery look, cut-out using the AP cartridge at 2 3/4". The leaves were cut at 1 1/2". I used a Nestability scallop-circle die for the blue cardstock and white cardstock for the sentiment. The base of the card is 5 1/2" x 12" and it was scored at 4 1/4", 6" & then turned 180 degrees and scored again at 4 1/4". Fold the card at the 6" line and then fold at the other score lines to sandwich the center fold. Tape the edges and punch the opening to hold the giftcard.

Here's the inside view:

Thanks for stopping by!

Announcing the December Stamp of the Month "Mad About You"

2011-12-01T16:56:00.000-08:00

It's December already and that means a new Stamp of the Month!!! This month Close To My Heart is featuring the stamp set "Mad About You" which is a set of 14 acrylic stamps that are just perfect for the upcoming Valentine's Day or any day that you want to celebrate those you love. 4 of the images coordinate with the Art Philosophy Cricut cartridge as well! If you spend $50 in products this set can be purchased for an additional $5 throughout the month of December. Contact me if you'd like to get in on this month's special!

My card features a black cardstock base, the letter "U" cut with the Cricut using Mischief B&T paper. The heart is stamped and embossed for extra shine and the tag was also cut with the Cricut.

Thanks for stopping by!

Gathering Ideas

2011-11-18T10:36:00.000-08:00

This card features a couple of the snowflakes from the CTMH Art Philosophy® Cricut cartridge that I want each guest to see and stamp on. I used CTMH's Wonderland B&T paper, some glitter gel, a couple mocha opaques, & ribbon to finish off this A2-size card. The ink was Twilight & Chocolate.

For a second project at my friend's home gathering we will be making this cute treat bag for Thanksgiving. I made the tag with the AP cartridge cut at 3 1/4" and the chocolate tag was cut at 3 1/2". I used the stamp set "So Grateful" (B1395 $9.95) and the ink was Autumn Terracotta, Chocolate and Olive. I cut the pumpkin out and popped it up with dimensional foam tape along with one of the leaves. I purchased the treat bags from an online retailer & filled them with yummy chocolate covered pretzels! Thanks for stopping by!

Holiday Wishes Card

2011-11-16T16:22:00.000-08:00

During the month of November you can purchase the My Acrylix® Holiday Wishes D–size stamp set for $5 with a $25 stamp purchase. I made this card with the tree stamp from this set. I cut out the tree shape 3 times with my Cricut using the AP cartridge, stamped them, scored them in the center and glued the sides together. I used the Kraft color-ready border strip and some retired paper from CTMH. The kraft cardstock was put through the Big Shot with a texture plate and the edges were sponged with chocolate ink.

Here's the side view showing the 3-D dimension and it would mail easily because you can lay the tree flat! That's always a bonus... Thanks for looking!

This is a look at the complete set:

Contact me if you'd like to take advantage of this special offer.

Exciting News!!

2011-11-16T12:25:00.000-08:00

I just heard today that I happened to be one of six lucky winners (out of 289 entries) of the Mojo Monday #214 contest! I was so surprised with all the gorgeous entries that they actually chose mine but thank you for the votes! I received any Verve Stamp set of my choice for FREE! Yahoo!

And this was my entry:

Thanks for stopping by!

Mojo Monday #215

2011-11-14T13:36:00.000-08:00

It's a Mojo Monday challenge designed this week by Debbie Carriere! I am missing spring even though winter isn't far off so I used the Close To My Heart colonial white cardstock for the base, Elemental Paper Pack, Lilac Mist & Sorbet cardstocks. I used the sentiment from Card Chatter-Birthday and did some stitching with my sewing machine. The flowers & leaves are from the set "Carefree" (C1447). Then I used the Pearl Opaques for the centers of the flowers. I used my Big Shot and some Sizzix embossing folders for the paper patterns for some extra detail.

Thanks for stopping by!

Proud Deer Hunter

2011-11-11T11:45:00.000-08:00

My eldest son, Caleb, had the hunt of his life! He shot a 9 point buck on deer opener and a doe that was with the buck (so sad to me) & then the next morning he shot another 9 pointer. Wow! What a year! Great job son!

Veteran's Day Tribute!

2011-11-11T11:27:00.000-08:00

A song written and performed by Ciara Drexler for all the men and women who serve and have served to protect our freedom. On a chilly Minnesota's night the community of Alexandria MN came out to show their heart felt support for our troops.

Civilian Song from Zandolee Media on Vimeo.

Winter Wonderland

2011-11-11T11:24:00.000-08:00

It's definitely not winter here in MN but it's fun to play with the new CTMH set called "Snowflakes" (D1480 $17.95). I used the Wonderland Level 2 Paper Packet, the Bulk Ribbon (Z1617 $6.95) which I cut in half, a couple buttons from the Basic Assortment (Z1358 $5.95). I used the AP cartridge for the snowflakes and the sentiment. The ink used was Twilight & Chocolate. Thanks for stopping by!

Mojo Monday #214

2011-11-11T11:07:00.000-08:00

Here is another sketch by the very creative Julee Tilman at the Mojo Monday blogspot.

Supplies:
B&T paper from CTMH: Dreamin' Level 2 & Wonderland Level 2
Colonial white cardstock base
Sewing machine
Goldrush & chocolate cs for the flowers & leaves made by the exclusive CTMH Cricut® Art Philosophy Collection Cartridge
Sentiment from CTMH My Acrylix® Art Philosophy Tags set
Bulk Ribbon
Thanks for stopping by!

Tuesday Morning Sketches #119

2011-11-09T16:29:00.000-08:00

I'm playing along with the Tuesday Morning Sketch here & the prize is a $25 gift card! That would be fun to win! I used chocolate, twilight and colonial white cardstock. For textured paper I chose CTMH's "Wonderland"; the stamp set is "Winter Joy" (C1468 $13.95). The tag was cut at 2" with the CTMH Art Philosophy Cricut cartridge. I added some Mocha Opaques (Z1333 $2.95) and used Glitz Glitter Gel (Stardust Z1313 $2.75) on the snowflakes! Thanks for stopping by!

9"x 9" My Creations Memory Showcase Album

2011-11-06T18:55:00.000-08:00

Have you tried the CTMH Memory Showcase accordion-style album? It's a great, inexpensive way to share photos of a special event or special person. I made this one for my niece's 2nd child, Daniel. The paper I used is now retired but any paper would work. They are fun to create and make a great gift! The 6" x 6" (Z1195) is just $3.95 and the 9" x 9" (like the one I'm displaying) is just $5.95 (Z1198). It makes a great gift too!
This is the front cover. I used the stamp set "It's a Zoo" (C1360) and the "Alphabet Pennant" Set (E1018).

This shows the inside of the album where there is room for 4 photos.

This is the back side of the album where there is room for 5 photos in this lay-out:

The front and back cover in detail. I used the computer for the information about Daniel.

Happy crafting!
I hope you try one of these yourself! Contact me if you'd like to place an order.

Winter is Knocking

2011-11-06T13:47:00.000-08:00

I know it's a bit soon (even for us in MN this year) but I really like this set called "Winter Joy" (C1468 $13.95). I ran the new england ivy cardstock through the Big Shot with a texture plate snowflake design, then I stamped the image of the boy skiing and used a My Acrylix block and some Versamark ink to ink up the entire circle in order to emboss with clear embossing powder. It worked but it was hard to clean my block of the Versamark ink afterwards LOL! The ribbon is from CTMH called Bulk Ribbon (Z1617 $6.95) and I cut it in half because it's 1 1/4" wide and I needed half that width for this Cricut tag. It looks like a fun time, but I am truly dreading the cold! Happy Stamping!

Simple Pumpkin Card

2011-11-06T11:45:00.000-08:00

This is a very simple card to create. I cut ovals using the AP Cricut Cartridge and I overlapped the bottom two and placed the final oval over them. The vines were cut using the cricut as well. The base of the card is dark brown cardstock (from a local print shop), then a rectangular piece of cardstock cut at 5" x 3 3/4" (approx.) was added before adhering the pumpkin. I cut the small tag with the Cricut as well and added a autumn-looking ribbon. Very simple! Thanks for stopping by!

Tool for Cricut Flowers

2011-11-03T19:22:00.000-07:00

If you struggle with making perfect flowers using the Art Philosophy Cricut cartridge, I think this little tool is your answer. I found it at Hobby Lobby for $3.99 and it has a slotted end to slide your paper into and then you just roll. It makes nice tight flowers and when you pull the quilling tool out and let the flower unroll itself, it's the perfect size. Hope this helps if you've been struggling with your flower making!

Elemental Paper is so Versatile!

2011-11-03T09:11:00.000-07:00

This paper is so useful for many different cards or scrapbook lay-outs. It can be a Christmas paper (as it's shown on page 141 of the catalog), a baby paper (like my baby card below), a friendship paper and a scrapbook paper with the one you love. Very fun color choices and this is only a few ideas. Thanks for stopping by!

Seasonal Cards

2011-11-03T08:56:00.000-07:00

Thanksgiving is coming soon and I like the simple pumpkin design of the set "So Grateful" (B1395 $9.95). I used a colonial white cardstock base with a 4" x 5 1/4" piece of olive cardstock run through the Big Shot with a Sizzix embossing folder from SU, dark brown cardstock and another piece of colonial white paper for stamping the background of stems and leaf. The I stamped the pumpkin image on a separate sheet of colonial white cardstock and cut it out, mounting it with 3-D foam tape. I added a gingham ribbon attached by brown brads, Autumn Terracotta, olive & chocolate ink and you're done!

This Christmas card is featured in the catalog on page 76. I cut the base at 5 1/2" with the Cricut out of colonial white cardstock. I added a liner for the inside out of olive cardstock, then chocolate cardstock with one spot sanded to reveal the white core of the cardstock & a 1/2" strip of cranberry cardstock. The holly leaves were cut out of olive cardstock using the AP Cricut cartridge and stamped with the set "A Holiday" (A1115 $6.95) along with the berries. I used the set "Holiday Cheer" (B1381 $9.95) for the sentiment and stamped this with cranberry ink on a Cricut cut shape (this makes it SO simple!) There's one small sparkle added and a gingham ribbon. Very fun card!

Tag-filled Tuesday

2011-11-01T17:56:00.000-07:00

I've been very inspired by Debbie and Jackie who are making really fun Christmas gift tags and thought I'd try them out. They will be perfect for adding to gifts or small cellophane bags filled with goodies. Check them out and you'll want to create some too!!!!

All tags are cut at 3" with the CTMH AP Cricut cartridge. Some are run through my Big Shot with various embossing folders for more texture.

This tag has a scallop circle from the AP cartridge cut at 2 1/2", a gingham ribbon and button were added and the Noel sentiment is from the "Say It In Style" set. The holly leaves are from the set "A Holiday" cut at 1 3/4". The To and From are from the Cricut AP Celebration Set that is included in your initial AP Cricut purchase.

This tag has the button and gingham ribbon and the scalloped square was cut with my Nestabilities, the red shape was cut from the AP Cricut cartridge, the snowflakes were cut at 1" and 1/2" and stamped with a snowflake from the Oct. SOTM and some bling was added for sparkle!

This 3" tag was run through the Big Shot, the holly leaves were from "A Holiday", the shape was cut at 2 1/2" from the AP cartridge again (there are so many options it's hard to choose), the numbers are cut from the AP Cricut cartridge as well and I added a red snowflake ribbon and button.

Just a couple more tags. These were also cut out of colonial white cardstock at 3" and then I cut an additional tag out of B & T paper and glued them together. The 3-D ornament was created by cutting 4 ornaments from B & T paper and then scored in the middle and each half was glued together (hopefully that makes sense)! The Merry Christmas sentiment is from "Say It In Style" and the additional tag was cut with the AP cartridge on my Cricut. Hope you try this out for yourself!

Mojo Monday #213!

2011-10-31T10:37:00.000-07:00

It's the Mojo Monday Challenge and here's my entry...
I used a very dark brown cardstock base (from a local printer) that was cut 5" x 10"....giving me a 5" x 5" card with a colonial white cardstock placed on the inside. I used B&T paper from the CTMH Elemental paper pack, then some scrap misc. pieces (I have WAY too many of these:) The Dark Chocolate Striped Grosgrain ribbon is from CTMH as well as the mocha opaques. The sentiment is from the CTMH "Say It In Style" set of 40 stamps (D1283 $17.95). The circle was stamped with a stamp from the October Stamp of the Month set "Holiday Wishes". The flowers and leaves were cut with the CTMH AP cartridge and my Cricut. Have an enjoyable Halloween Day! Thanks for stopping by!

Mojo Monday Sketch:

Stop & Shop

2011-10-28T14:34:00.000-07:00

If you are in the area, please stop by and say "Hi"! Only 8 days away and it can be your one stop shop for home party goodies! It's being held at Ohe Barn in Rothsay, MN.
The address is: 13727 County Highway 28, Rothsay, MN 56579

Scrapbooking Fun!

2011-10-28T13:13:00.000-07:00

I turned to my sweet little great niece, Brooklynn, for some scrapbooking layouts. I'm getting ready for a "Stop-n-Shop" event near my hometown on deer hunting opener and wanted to show the different paper options that CTMH has to offer as well as the fun things our Cricut cartridge can do! This first lay-out features Mischief B&T paper, black, autumn terracotta & colonial white cardstock. The pumpkin was created by making 3" ovals with the CTMH AP (Art Philosophy) cartridge and then sponging the edges as I overlapped the front oval over the back 2 ovals. I added the leaves and flourishes by using the AP cartridge as well. I hand-cut the pumpkin stem. The banners on the left side of the page were cut at 1 1/4" with the Cricut as well. I used our Pennant Alphabet stamp set for the lettering.

Since I only have sons I knew I had to pull in some girl photos for this lay-out. Once again Brooklynn was a perfect candidate! She had her 1st birthday party at our home and we had about 50 people in attendance....it was a REALLY well-attended party! This lay-out uses a colonial white cardstock base and Roxie B&T paper on the sides. The stamp set "Instant Memories" (C1466 $13.95) was used. This is a really fun set! The largest flower was cut at 5" and the smaller two were cut at 3". The leaves were cut with the Cricut and then I scored them so they looked more realistic. The lettering was cut using the AP cartridge and my Cricut as well as the number "1" and the geometric shape. I used black re-inker in a dish and the stubble tool in our Texture Tool kit (Z1298 $9.95) to add a grunge look to the edges. Thanks for stopping by!

Early Christmas Card Idea

2011-10-23T18:48:00.000-07:00

This card is called a "Swing (Flip Flop) Card and the tutorial can be found here. I used the retired Background & Texture paper called "Mistletoe" from CTMH, olive, cranberry and colonial white cardstock. The stamp sets were "Holiday Cheer" (B1381 for only $9.95) and "A Holiday" (A1115 for only $6.95). A few folds in the right place and some cutting, some bling for a bit of sparkle, a ribbon and you have this unique Christmas card.

This is the front view of the card:

This is the view as you open the card:

Then you open it fully and you have the inside greeting!

There you have it....how fun is that?!!!

Happy Stamping!

Simply Celebrating "U"

2011-10-21T09:42:00.000-07:00

This card was created using the "center point" option on the Cricut. You can use this feature when you want your image in the middle of your paper. Try it out!

Instructions: Press the Center Point button on your Cricut and it will light up. Position the blade in the middle of the paper you want to cut, it will center the image from the place where you placed the blade. Press "Cut." It's a really nice option when you want to do a card like this.

I used the Mischief B&T paper, with sunset, colonial white and black cardstock. I added a ribbon and then stamped the sentiment from the "My Acrylix Art Philosophy Celebration" stamp set that is included in your "Cricut Art Philosophy Collection." Happy Creating!

Just Announced: November Constant Campaign

2011-10-21T09:24:00.000-07:00

When you place a minimum order of $25 in My Acrylix® stamp sets in November, you can purchase a new D-size Holiday Wishes stamp set for only $5! That’s significant savings off the full retail value of $17.95 US / $19.95 CAN. And here’s a bonus: many of the images in the set coordinate with our Cricut® Art Philosophy cartridge for added cutting and stamping fun!
Dates: Offer valid November 1 (9:00 am MDT)–November 30 (11:59 pm MST).

Remember anything outlined in red means there is a Cricut shape to coordinate with the stamp. This set has many fun options so contact me if you'd like to take advantage of this special offer or if you'd like to have a home gathering! Thanks for stopping by!

Sonoma's Workshop on the Go

2011-10-20T10:09:00.000-07:00

This card was cut at 5" with the Art Philosophy Cricut cartridge and I used the Sonoma B&T (Background and Texture) paper. This paper pack uses the beautiful colors of Smokey Plum, Bamboo, Cocoa & Olive! I cut the patterned paper at 4 1/2" and then cut that piece about 2/3 of the way down and flipped it over to show the 2 sides of the patterned paper. The border was cut using the Cricut AP cartridge as well along with the flowers & leaves. The sentiment comes from the Workshops on the Go Sonoma Kit (G1028 $29.95 pg. 43 in the catalog) Happy creating!

CTMH Studio J has teamed up with The Crafting Chicks!

2011-10-20T09:55:00.000-07:00

The Crafting Chicks has teamed up with our very own Studio J digital online scrapbooking software and they have announced a giveaway.

Check out the details here!

Studio J is giving a 5-Pack and a 12×12 faux leather album to one of our readers (must be US or Canada resident)!!

{A 5-pack includes 5 two-page layouts, 5 Memory Protectors®, and free shipping and handling.}

It's only for today so check it out!

Season of Joy

2011-10-19T20:03:00.000-07:00

I went for a unique color combination on this tri-shutter card. You can watch the tutorial here. The paper used for this card was CTMH "Believe" B&T paper, sky cardstock and holiday red. The flowers, leaves & tree were cut with the Art Philosophy cartridge. I used a scalloped circle from Nestabilities for the front. Stamp sets used were "My Acrylix Art Philosophy Seasons" (included in the Cricut Art Philosophy Collection (Z1686 for $99.00) & "Say It In Style" (D1283 $17.95) The embossed paper pieces were run through a Big Shot and some Sizzix embossing folders. Thanks for stopping by!

Enjoying this month's Stamp of the Month!

2011-10-12T10:12:00.000-07:00

On this last card if you're wondering how I got the solid ink look, I turned the stamp upside down on my block and used the backside of the stocking image for a solid looking stocking and then stamped the flourish in black ink that comes with the SOTM! How versatile the My Acrylix stamp sets are! Contact me if you'd like to place an order to get this month's Stamp of the Month, called "Holiday Magic!" It can be ordered separately for $17.95 (S1110) or with a $50 order it can purchased for just $5. Contact me today! This set is only available until October 31, 2011.

Fun Embellishment Ideas!

2011-10-08T08:05:00.000-07:00

So Many Possibilities!

2011-10-08T08:02:00.000-07:00

Two Thumbs up!

2011-10-04T20:50:00.000-07:00

Today we celebrated my husband's birthday with dinner out and a movie. The new film "Courageous" from Affirm Films was released this past Friday. Emotional, inspiring and worth watching! This was my 22nd year celebrating with my guy! Looking forward to so many more years!

Shape-a-Day #2 from Jeanette Lynton

2011-10-02T13:39:00.000-07:00

Today’s featured Cricut shape is really a whole set of shapes. The Art Philosophy cartridge comes with a complete alphabet in both base and layer fonts. I love the way color from the background peeps through the letters!

Shape instructions: Push the “font layer” feature key and the corresponding letter keys – look on page 76 of your booklet to see where to find each letter. These letters were cut at 1 ¾”.

Shape-a-Day for the month of October

2011-10-01T19:39:00.000-07:00

Founder and CEO of Close To My Heart, Jeanette Lynton, will be highlighting a new shape each day using the NEW CTMH Cricut Art Philosophy cardtridge. This is her first example. Sounds like a creative way to get even more ideas with this amazing cartridge! Stay tuned for further ideas!

FROM JEANETTE:
The first piece of artwork I’d like to share with you is this elegant thinking of you card, touting one of the Art Philosophy cartridge’s tag shapes. Once cut, this shape was so easy to dress up using the perfectly coordinating image from the September Stamp of the Month set, Limited Edition.

Shape instructions: create this tag by setting the size dial to 3 ½” and pushing the far right key on the fourth row; see page 60 in the Cricut Art Philosophy booklet.

Holiday Magic

2011-10-01T19:30:00.000-07:00

This is my favorite Stamp of the Month! Sleighs, stockings and trees....oh my!!! This set is so much fun and offers so many different card or scrap booking ideas for your Christmas or Holiday creating! With a $50 Close To My Heart purchase you can purchase this set for only $5. Please let me know if you'd like to place an order or you may order from my website here. Happy Stamping!

Celebrating My Husband

2011-09-30T11:55:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to my man on Tuesday, October 4th! I made a paper bag card in his honor. I used the B&T paper from the "Dreamin" paper pack. I used chocolate, sunset & dutch blue ink. Stamp sets used were Blue Ribbon (C1464), Stamp of the Month from June (D1458 American Celebration), November (S111 Cherish the Day) and January (S1201 Little Reminder), retired set Just Like You (C1300) & Say It In Style (D1283) His name, the tag, and the tabs for the inserts were cut by the Cricut with the Art Philosophy cartridge (Z1686)

The banner was made by stamping the bottom portion of the blue ribbon and then cut out and stitched together with crochet thread.

I made Kraft cardstock (Z1375) inserts (they slide into the front pocket of the paper bag card)for each of my three sons to write a special birthday wish for their dad....this saves us from having to buy multiple cards and I think everyone enjoys a personalized message from their kids! Hope he likes the card! Thanks for stopping by!

More Fun with Family, Friends and my Sony a700!

2011-09-28T21:32:00.000-07:00

It has become an annual event to take pictures for my sweet friend DeAnn and her family and my sister Shelly's family. Here are some more of the images that were captured!

Workshop at Riverbend

2011-09-27T20:26:00.000-07:00

I do a monthly workshop with ladies that are 62 years old and older (my precious grandma is 87 and she comes every month!) Each month I come up with 5 cards or gifts that we create and they pay $5 per month. It's not a money maker but it's a blessing to the women that come and we enjoy creating together. Here are the projects we made for today's monthly class. They loved the easel card! I had each lady try to create a flower using a quilling tool with a slot for the paper to slide into but their hands just aren't limber like they once were so they didn't really enjoy the flower making process. They were thankful I had most of them made ahead of time:)Every project this month was using the AP Cartridge from CTMH in some form. It does such a fabulous job of cutting the box we made, the cards we put together. It cuts letters, labels, flourishes, acorns and so much more! What a treat it is to have this cartridge! Contact me if you'd like to get one for yourself!

Photo Shoot

2011-09-26T18:44:00.000-07:00

I've been pulled from my craft room to take some family pictures for my sister and her beautiful family. They continue to grow and that always adds a challenge to get every person looking at the camera, but I guess that's why we take many, many photos:) What a fun bunch!

More Cricut Cards

2011-09-21T13:48:00.000-07:00

This card was stamped using CTMH's My Acrylix stamp set "Remarkable Wreath" (C1473 $13.95, p. 88). The butterfly was cut at 1" with the Cricut and layered with the decorative butterfly image. The tag was also cut with the Cricut using the AP cartridge. Ink colors were: chocolate, barn red and goldrush. Cardstock used was Autumn Terracotta & Colonial White. Eyelets were used in the corners and the ribbon was purchased at a craft store.

This card was made with a white card base, the pansy purple was embossed in the Big Shot, the circle was made from honey cardstock and a dark brown cs was cut with a scallop Nestability die. The flower was cut by the Cricut at 4" and the leaves were cut at 1 3/4" and 2" and then I scored lines to look like leaf veining. The flourish was also from the AP cartridge. The stamp set used was Card Chatter-Sympathy.

Thinking of "U"

2011-09-21T06:45:00.000-07:00

It's always a good feeling to use-up retired paper. This paper is called Dusty Durango (SU). It reminds me of fall so I used it for this card. The "u" is cut using the CTMH Art Philosophy (or AP) cartridge, along with the mini tags, banner, and shapes. So many possibilities with this Cricut cartridge! The lower case "u" was cut at 2 1/2", the banner was cut at 2 1/2" and the shapes were cut at 2" and 1 3/4". The card is a standard A2 size. Thanks for stopping by!

Easel Card made by the Cricut!

2011-09-19T15:59:00.000-07:00

This easel card was made with Kraft cardstock, the new Dreamin' B & T paper and Goldrush cardstock. I used the amazing CTMH Art Philosophy Cartridge for the Cricut and it made it so nice and simple. The flowers were cut using the cartridge as well with goldrush cardstock. The flourishes were cut on kraft cs and I used the new ruler (Z1471 $9.95) found on page 134 of the catalog for the hand stitching on the front.

The tickets were also cut using the AP Cartridge and then stamped with September's Stamp of the Month to give it a notebook pattern. I also sponged the edges of the tickets and the flowers. The buttons were from my own button collection and the sentiment used was from the stamp set "Say It in Style" found on page 106 (D1283 $17.95)

Such fun colors for the season and with the great Background and Texture papers from CTMH that are double-sided, this design was created with only one sheet of B & T cardstock. Inspired by this link.

Here's another design using the Sonoma Workshop on the Go stamp set.

Love It!

2011-09-14T21:00:00.000-07:00

Loving the AP Cartridge from CTMH!

2011-09-13T12:57:00.000-07:00

This card has a creme brulee cardstock (cs) base with a strip of chocolate cs that I ran through my small crimper and then added an additional strip of You & Me paper with a ribbon added to hold the tag. This tag was cut with the Art Philosophy Cartridge from Close To My Heart. The sentiment is from the set "Card Chatter: Sympathy". I added a jumbo eyelet to the hole that was cut by the Cricut machine for extra strength. I used the leaf stamp that comes with the Art Philosophy Cartridge (pg. 13 in the idea book) and cut colonial white cardstock at 2" and then stamped the leaf stamp with the colors: goldrush, cranberry and barn red. The swirling stamp image is from the new stamp set "Instant Memories" (C1466 for $13.95) on pg. 23 of the idea book.

Happy Stamping!

Life is Good!

2011-09-13T12:24:00.000-07:00

Another card idea from Jeanette Lynton's blog:-) Since I'm still fairly new with CTMH, I don't have many stamps from the past so I had to make due with what I have and came up with this card. The directions are as follows:
1. The card base was cut with the Cricut using CTMH's Art Philosophy (or AP) Cartridge. I used the card on page 58 of the guide book and cut it at 5 1/2" using colonial white cardstock.
2. The acorns were cut with the AP cartridge using the acorn on page 36 of the guide book. They were cut with colonial white cs at 1 1/2".
3. The acorn tops were created with the "layer" option on the same page, using chocolate cs and cutting at 1 1/2".
4. I used paper from the You & Me kit and cut this at 2 1/2" x 5 1/2".
5. I stamped the sentiment from the Remarkable Wreath (C1473) stamp set.
6. I used a 5/8" strip of sunset cs and ran it through my Bigshot with the Cuttlebug folder called "Organic Flourish" (it's a set of 5 found at a local hobby/craft store), then I sponged this strip with chocolate ink.
7. I stamped the acorn base with the set, Universal Backgrounds (D1477) using desert sand ink and then sponged the edges and attached the chocolate acorn tops.
8. The ribbon is by Offray (166927 Sheer Petit Dot C3 Brown) found at Hobby Lobby or Michaels.
9. The button is from CTMH's BULK 210, which I hand sewed to the ribbon and attached with a glue dot.
10. I added a small strip of chocolate cs to the inside and stamped the sentiment from the set "Say it in Style" (D1283).
Happy Stamping!

Fall Bounty

2011-09-13T12:07:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I had to quit procrastinating. It was time to deal with some of the tomatoes that are growing in abundance in my garden. I tried a new recipe for homemade spaghetti sauce. You may click here to try it for yourself. I picked a 5 gallon bucket of tomatoes which was approx. 25 pounds, like the recipe called for.
Here are the tomatoes in the pot, ready to be cooked...

Added some onions and peppers...

It turned out runnier than my family likes, but I plan to add a thickener when I reheat it for later. Gotta love fresh vegetables for later use! Here's the finished product. Happy canning!

Mix -n- Mingle Case'd from an Older Catalog

2011-09-07T15:59:00.000-07:00

A fun use for the Close to my Heart "My Creations Mix -n- Mingle Album" (Item Z1334 for $8.95) The letters were cut with the Cricut AP Cartridge. The paper was olive cardstock and a retired pack. Some hand stitching was added as well as some hemp wrapped around the letters & eyelets for the corners. The leaves were from some older sets (SU, I think) but any leaf set will achieve this look. Very fun home decor for the autumn season!