Inky Shirl

Printers Tray

2012-02-09T16:55:00.000+11:00

Hello,I`m back with another awesome project we did on the cruise.

I have always wanted to do one of these Printers Trays (12inx 10.5)Was so much fun to put together with all the yummy embellishments :)

How cute are those cork vials filled with sand and small shells?
See the fab key? We all only need one,but the awesome Tim Holtz generously supplied each one of us (48 stampers)with a full packet of Idea-ology Word Keys!
Thank you Tim!

Rachel went to a lot of trouble (and packets of scrabble tiles!) to give each one of us two with our initials

The Darkroom Door papers were inked with Broken China and Antique Linen distress inks.
The grassy chipboard was painted with Bronze Precious Metal Colour (love that stuff!)

Some stamping

A shell,Darkroom Door stamps,montages,some muslin and more Tim Holtz embellishments completes this tray. It now hangs on my wall were I can admire each day!

Just a couple of photos to share

First cocktails of the day.."Sydney Sunset" Kindly bought by Lynne. Was delicious!

Beautiful Isle of Pines. The first port of call.

Our stamping room.We all had a whole table to work on.
Don't forget to click on pictures for more details.
See you again soon with more!

Stamping Cruise Album

2012-02-07T17:11:00.001+11:00

We made this album in the first class.The colours are gorgeous!
I still have to add my own finishing touches and some photos of course.
The colours are Ice Blue and Bronze Precious Metal paint.
7 Gypsies gaffer tape binds the cover.
We all received a new collage stamp which we stamped and highlighted with the Crayon Resist technique. How cool does it look? Love it.
The title '2012 Stamping Cruise' is chipboard which was painted in Ice Blue with a touch of Bronze.
Glassine paper crumpled and placed under the collage.

There is a page for each day to journal. We stamped lines from the Calendar set and shells from the Seashells collection.
Was supposed to write in it each day but was too busy trying to fit in as many activities as possible on the ship!

Itinerary of the cruise

We added kraft tags,small and large glassine envelopes,and translucent envelopes through out the album.

Also included in the kit was a pad of 6x6 seaside papers which I forgot to photograph.
Will post more pictures when I have completed the album.
It is going to be a treasured keepsake!
Click on photos for more details
Thanks for looking and I will be back with more!

Australia Stamping Cruise

2012-02-05T14:27:00.001+11:00

I am back after a wonderful,fabulous,fantastic awesome 12 nights on this lovely ship!
This was my first cruise and I am keen to go again!
Rachel Greig from Darkroom Door made the cruise even more exciting with the fun classes. Lots of ink,paint,embellishments and stamps of course :)

That's me on the left with Rachel and my friend Lynne. This was taken on the last night at a Cocktail Party just for us 48 stampers.

Too much to show in one blog post, so will start with the spectacular shadow box we made in the second class.

The box is 23x23cm or 9inx9in.
Every hard to photograph with the glass, so have taken a few photos.
Click on photos to see more details.

The gorgeous background was made using Viva Ferro and Viva Precious Metal paint.
After applying the Ferro,you stamp into it to create texture. The paint is rubbed over the raised texture...hmmm yum!
So much better in real life!
The paper layer under the butterfly started as a blank piece of white card which I stamped a collage and distressed with distress inks (of course!)Under that is a piece of muslin,then card painted with Inka Gold in Alt Silber (Old Silver)

Back soon with more creations.

Christmas Stampotique Swap

2012-01-07T21:37:00.000+11:00

Happy New Year to all my lovely followers!
This is the second Stampotique swap I organised with a few of my wonderful blogging friends. We all love the quirkiness of these fun stamps by Stampotique.

All six fabulous creations :)

Belinda's and Sarah's

Vicky's and Fiona's

Mine and Lynne's

Looking forward to another swap...maybe late February?

TAG ONE

2011-12-05T22:24:00.000+11:00

Who has been following Tim`s 12 tags of Christmas? If you don't know what I am on about have a look here
I have been watching these awesome tags by Tim for the last three years.
This year I thought it was about time to try and re create something similar or at least use some of the techniques.
Like many people, I don't have ALL the supplies that Tim used on the tags.
The idea is to get INSPIRED to try the techniques and get creative with what you do have.
Not the best photo, but here is my tag

For the creation of this tag, I was also inspired by Shelly Hickox
Her blog 'Stamptramp' is one of my favourites...so full of great techiques and ideas.
I don't have Kraft Resist paper, so I cased Shelly's idea and painted over kraft cardstock with Pool dabber paint. I used a different cuttlebug folder.
Instead of white embossing powder I applied UTEE (embossing enamel) I used this because it was sitting in front of me and I was in a hurry ( I should have been more organised!) It works, but think it may have made my tag a bit 'brittle'. It tore a little when I was distressing the edges with the distresser.
I also followed Shelly's idea of making your own tattered banners...ooh la la! So fun!
For the leaves I used the mini tattered leaves movers and shapers die with two different shades of green cardstock. I embossed the leaves with 'branches' embossing folder. I then sanded,applied some 'gathered twigs' distress ink and a bit of snow dabber paint. Used same technique for the Elegant Flourish.
I don't have the pine cones die, so used some white mini roses.Sprayed 'Crushed Shells' glimmer mist on them and sponged some 'Frayed Burlap' ink to the centres.
The reindeer (Reindeer Flight die)was cut with Jac paper (double sided sticky paper)
I peeled off one side and coated with silver glitter.
The ribbon is colored with 'Iced Spruce' distress ink...love that colour!
I dabbed a little 'Snow' dabber paint randomly on the tag.
Tim is already up to tag five...so I better get a move on!
If you are still here...thanks for looking :)

BONJOUR!

2011-11-21T16:58:00.000+11:00

I made this card for the monthly challenge at The Craft Queen

The challenge is to use pink ribbon and some stamping. How easy is that?

I started with this

This page is from the gorgeous 6 1/2 paper pad from Kaisercraft called Bonjour.
I trimmed the page down to fit the front of the folded kraft card.
The chipboard dress form was dabbed with vintage photo distress ink at the top and bottom. I then covered it with some striped pattern paper from the same paper pad.
Added some pink ribbon for the waist. Stickles for the bottom of the dress for a bit of bling.
The word "Friend" is from Crafty Secrets 'Garden Girls' gorgeous stamp set .
The Paris post mark and swirls (Tim Holtz Boundless Flight)inked with Vintage Photo distress ink. Edges of paper sponged with Walnut Stain distress ink.
The small white flower was 'dusted' with Worn Lipstick distress ink. I then applied some Iridescent Medium to the flower for some sparkle.

To enter the challenge, just click on the Craft Queen link for all the info.
You do not need a blog. Just email your creation to Nicole.
So...what are you waiting for?

Craft Barn Blog Candy

2011-11-14T10:22:00.000+11:00

Have a look at this fabulous giveaway!

Just click here for more details.

WHAT! NO STAMPING?!

2011-11-13T09:33:00.000+11:00

The few days leading up to my husband's operation were stressful.
I usually find getting inky with my favourite rubber stamps and distress inks relaxing,but I just could not get my creative juices going.
So I came across a fabulous magazine 'Cards and Crafts for Christmas Vol 5.' Special collector's edition.
It has tons of ideas using Christmas pattern paper. I have way too many 6x6 pattern paper pads (another addiction!)
So, I pulled out my Christmas 6x6 pads and picked two that I liked the most.
Bo Bunny "Father Christmas Collection" and my fave by Simple Stories "25 Days of Christmas"
All the cards created here were ideas from the magazine.The instructions are easy to follow. I cased some of them using the Christmas pads I had on hand.

I added a Tim Holtz Reindeer die cut and 'noel' is from another die cut.

'Joy' is a die cut. Added some stickles for bling!

Love this one! All paper here is from the Simple Stories paper pad.

This would be a great one to give to a male. Simple Stories paper used for this card. So easy!

Love the vintage style of this one!

Love the turned over corner on this card. It was supposed to have matching paper inside. I am going to use a corner style rub on in the top right hand side...or maybe even stamp a corner design.

I really enjoyed making these cards. I am going to use my other paper pads to create similar cards in other themes.
I bought the paper pads from Nicole at the Craft Queen You will find a huge range of 6x6 paper pads here.

Hope you have enjoyed viewing the cards.

ORANGE GREEN AND PURPLE!

2011-11-12T17:44:00.000+11:00

Thank you to all my friends/followers who have emailed me to wish my hubby all the best during his illness.
This is the second time he has had cancer. The operation went well, but still a long road to recovery with chemo to come sometime soon.
Emails from my blogging buddies and phone calls from friends has kept my spirits up.
I am just starting to get creative again. So what better way to start than a fabulous colour challenge from Sarah over at Inkurable Stampers.
The theme is to use orange green and purple. You may also used a neutral. I used black.

I am a bit out of practice with the photography.
I made a gift card (7.5x10.5). First I dabbed some dusty concord,shabby shutters and spiced marmalade distress inks onto my non stick craft mat. Spritzed a little water, then dabbed some white cardstock repeatedly over the mat until I was happy with the colour.
I then stamped the Tim Holtz postcard/santa atc size image in black stazon over the coloured cardstock. After cutting it out I sponged dusty concord distress ink around the edges. I applied lime green stickles to the branches and a 'dot' next to the sentiment.
I matted it to a orange and then a black mat. The orange mat was white,which I just coloured the edges with spiced marmalade ink.
'Good Cheer' a word strip from Darkroom Door,which I coloured with dusty concord ink.All attached to olive green card base.
Thanks for visiting!

POISON BOTTLE CHALLENGE

2011-11-07T14:25:00.000+11:00

Hi there!
Very quick post.
Stampotique's Designers challenge is to make a Poison Bottle using only Stampotique stamps.

I started with this cute little bottle

While visiting my hubby in hospital I spied this empty milk bottle on his tray and thought of this challenge. Luckily I was able to grab five minutes here and there to create this

I stamped 'Mr Stripes' onto white tissue (from napkin) in black Stazon ink.
Tore around image and applied to bottle with Liquitex. I stamped the spider again on scrap white card in Stampin Up Real Red ink. I then cut out the red striped body and paper pieced over the first image.
Word 'Poison' was simply written on masking tape with black pen and the 'x' with red pen. Stuck masking tape to bottle. Painted and dabbed on colour with black dabber paint and red Viva Precious Metal paint.

Thanks for visiting!

PLAYING CARDS

2011-10-03T13:48:00.000+11:00

Today's card is for a challenge over at Moxie Fab World. The theme is Playing Cards.

The red folded card base is 8.5 x 12.5 and opens from the bottom. I chose this size because it was a left over piece sitting on my desk.
Image was stamped in Stampin Up Real Red. The black mat is die cut from Tim Holtz ATC die.
'Queen for a Day' are words stamped and cut out from EK and Memories in the Making.
'Celebrate' from Darkroom Door 'All Occasions' set.
Chipboard crown from Scrapware was coloured in gold gel pen. Added some red rhinestones from Kaiser.

The playing card stamp is from Darkroom Door "Playing Cards" set.
I was lucky to win this fun set from a Inkurable Stampers challenge

I also made some ATC's for the Monthly Darkroom Door ATC swap which is 'Masked Stamping'

For the ATC's I used 1920's Chic and the Playing Cards sets.
The lady in red was masked to create the background. On scrap paper a stamped the Queen playing card and cut out the Queen of Hearts image with a craft knife. I used the left over piece to 'frame' the lady.
Matted onto black ATC die cut. Added a red button and some red rhinestones.
I am looking forward to seeing what other stampers have created for this swap.
If you are interested in taking part in future Darkroom Door ATC swaps, just click on the highlighted link. On the Darkroom Door blog,look down the left hand column and you will find the themes for each month. Go on, you know you want to!

STEAMPUNK

2011-10-01T22:00:00.000+10:00

I regularly take part in the monthly Darkroom Door Artist Trading Card (ATC)swap.
For the September swap, I borrowed my friend Lynne's Steampunk set. I made 10 of these

I created the background on a A4 sheet of white card before cutting up into ATC size
(3.5x2.5)
The background is created using the wrinkle free distress technique. You can view a fab video tutorial here
by the Duke of Distress himself :)

I think the colours I used were Vintage Photo,Faded Jeans and maybe another brown.
My hubby was kind enough to let me raid his garage for some metal washers.
I put the washers in a small zip lock bag with a few drops of rust colored alcohol ink. Shook the bag until the washers changed colour.
Then laid the washers on my craft mat to dry. Painted over in black paint then wiped off excess.
Stamped some words onto masking tape.

I had made two A4 background sheets. Some left over so I made a matching card

I thoroughly enjoyed making these.

Here is one ATC and the card together

It is World Card Making day, so I hope you all get the chance to get inky this weekend!

BLACK WHITE AND HINT OF COLOUR

2011-09-27T15:54:00.000+10:00

THIS fun tag is my entry for the SDC38

You can use any stamps this week, but I just had to use this fun Stampotique image.
Her name is Perl. My lovely on line stamping buddy Vicky sent it to me along with some other Stampotique images. We did a swap.

The background stamp is from Darkroom Door Christmas Sentiments and the HO is from Yuletide 2.
I cut out Perl leaving a small white border.Matted on red. Perl is coloured with gel pens.
The beautiful black ribbon is from The Craft Queen. Nicole had wrapped it around some yummy paper pads I had ordered.

EYELETS

2011-09-26T08:41:00.002+10:00

Today's card was inspired by a challenge on Inkurable Stampers to use eyelets.

I forgot about these cute Tulip eyelets. Think I bought them on ebay. I have a small bag of 100 in white pink and red!

After 'blowing' the dust of my stash of eyelets and brads I also found some small pastel green square eyelets. (looks blue in the photo)
I was excited when I re discovered the bag of pots and water cans brads!

I started with a white piece 4.5x3.5in card stock. Distress ink Tumbled Glass for sky.Darkroom Door Wildflowers VOL2 used for bottom layer and for flower stems.
'Hello' from String Sentiments set.

Matted this on a 5x4 black piece of card then a pink folded card.

No, I was not drinking at the same time! I chose to mat them on an angle for an interesting and fun look :)

Thank you Sarah for inspiring me to dig out my eyelets!

I feel another creation using eyelets coming soon :)

GARDEN INCHIES ART

2011-09-22T08:36:00.000+10:00

In my last post I showed my first creations using the gorgeous Garden Inchies stamp set.
The images were stamped in black.

I wanted to try them in colour. The hardest part was deciding which of the lovely images to use. Solution?

WALL ART!

The 5x5 white canvas was coloured with black distess stain.
The inchies stamped in various yummy colours of distress inks.
'Enjoy Life' from one of the Darkroom Door word strips was edged in distress ink.
Click on the photo to get a closer look at the gorgeous images.
ENJOY!

Garden Inchies.

2011-09-19T08:40:00.000+10:00

I am in love with my new set of stamps from Darkroom Door called Garden Inchies.

I had to make some quick 'Thank You' cards.

I am entering the Butterflies card in the Moxie Fab Horizontal Sketch Challenge

Lovely butterflies

I love the birds on this one

Flowers

Trees

There are 24 inchies in this gorgeous set of stamps.

So many more cards to make with these...

Round Canvas Wall Hanging.

2011-09-11T16:48:00.001+10:00

Last week I had fun making this wall hanging in a mixed media class.

My photography skills are not the best!Started with a 5in round white canvas. Adhered lots of small pieces of gauze with PVA glue. Painted with two different shades of purple Lumiere paint.A length of black swirl chipboard attached to back of canvas. Coated the chipboard with dimensional magic.Gold leaf added to chipboard and canvasHere is a close up

Thanks for visiting!

Stampotique Bookmark

2011-09-01T19:56:00.001+10:00

The challenge at Stampotique Designers Challenge Blog is to make a bookmark.

I cut two pieces of white card 14.5x5cm. Front and back of book mark.I had just enough decorative tape for the background left over from my last cardto cover the front of the bookmark.The stamp used on the tape is Paris Postcard (Stampotique). I stamped 'Eric' onto white scrap card. Coloured with distress inks,cut out and adhered over the background tape.The back of the bookmark was coloured with distress stain in Faded Jeans. Stamped a mesh background in Frayed Burlap distress ink and sponged outer edges in Walnut Stain distress ink.

I took photos before laminating and adding ribbon.

Simon Says Travel

2011-08-29T22:20:00.000+10:00

Simon Says Stamp and Show Travel.

This is the entry for the challenge

I was inspired by 'Decorative Tape' technique in the July Craft Stamper (UK).

Lay strips of Sellotape onto NON STICK craft sheet.
Few drops of alcohol ink onto blending tool with a little blending solution.
Drag the ink across the tape. It will dry on the tape.
The article says to use Archival ink, but I used Staz On in black.
I stamped a Paris Postcard stamp by Stampotique several times across the length of the tape.
I had laid out a few strips of tape to about the same size as the stamp.
The alcohol ink colours I used were Sail Boat Blue,Watermelon and Citrus.

I attached the tape to white card.Applied distress stain in Old Paper to rest of the white card.Sponged some Frayed Burlap distress ink.
The 'mini postcard' was trimmed,distress edges and 'scratched' with scratching tool.
Frayed Burlap distress ink on edges and over scratches to highlight.
The Chic Lady from Darkroom Door 1920's Chic set was stamped on scrap white card in Versafine black. Coloured dress with Blue Lagoon Viva Metallic paint.(Rachel Greig gave me the tip).The collar,belt and bow coloured with Frayed Burlap distess ink.
Matted on light blue,then folded brown card.

For all you TYPO fans out there. The mini postcard I used comes in a set of 52 different mini postcards called 'Message in a Box' They are stored in a cute little silver tin with a hinged lid.

Inkurable Sketch Challenge

2011-08-26T08:14:00.000+10:00

WHOO HOOO! Sarah is back with a new look blog and another awesome challenge!

Check out the sketch challenge at Inkurable Stampers

I thought it was time to add to my slow growing collection of Christmas cards

All the pattern papers are from Bo Bunny Blitzen Collection 6x6 paper pad.

The cute row of reindeer was my inspiration to use this paper for the sketch.
All the pattern papers were edged with Walnut Stain distress ink.
The scallop edge is a EK punch.
Embossing folder from Basic Grey used on the white layer of card.
'Merry Christmas' stamped in Walnut Stain. Die cut with a Quickuts die. Dabbed Tumbled Glass distress ink over it before removing white card from die.
"Peace,Love Joy" stamped in Walnut Stain and punched out with circle punch. Edged in Tumbled Glass.
Green fibre from Making Memories.
All layered on to brown card
Both stamps from Darkroom Door Christmas Reindeer stamp set.

Another Book Page

2011-08-21T21:57:00.001+10:00

Three blog posts ago, I showed a card in which I altered a book page.
I enjoyed this technique so much I made another card.

Applied gesso to book page.When dried applied some distress stains (forgotten which colours!)
The large branches is part of a Unity stamp. I actually stamped it with Distress ink in Forest Moss,but it looks more like blue/grey. Could it be because it was stamped on top of gesso and distress stains? I don't mind it.
I stamped some small flowers (Savvystamps)in Spiced Marmalade distress ink and created some grass in Peeled Paint (I think!)with the stems of the flower stamp.
Click on photo to get a better look. I kind of like the 'washed out look' LOL!
The birds inked in black versafine as usual.Darkroom Door and Typo birds of course.
Vintage Photo distress ink applied to edges.
Thanks for taking the time to visit and I love and appreciate your comments!

DISTRESS STAINS

2011-08-20T21:32:00.000+10:00

Look what I found on my door step two days ago

25 yummy colours of Distress Stains!

I added these to my first collection of 12 (basket on right)

The other basket contains some Glimmer Mist. I found the set of 2 white baskets ($2)from KMART fit nicely in my drawer.

To find the colour I need....

I punched out 3/4in circles out of jac paper ,peeled off one side and adhered the sticky side to the lids. I then had the fun of applying the colour to the circles.
How cool do they look?

I can easily remove the basket out of the drawer and take to my desk when I want to have a play.

Another idea is to try and keep the colour groups together.
Blues,browns, reds etc.

These colours match the 36 colours of Distress Inks plus one new colour Picket Fence
(white)

Do you have a great way to store your Distress stains,inks or other stamping supplies?

Just For Fun.

2011-08-18T21:57:00.000+10:00

Hello!

Last night I had the urge to get inky when I should have been thinking about getting some beauty sleep...since I had to get up early next morning!
Does this happen to you?

I was trying really hard...erm..'cough' to tidy up my desk when I came across a manila tag that had been sitting there for a couple of weeks. It had one strip of tissue tape on it.
I decided it was time to add a bit of this and that and this is the end result.

I started by applying distress stains in Barn Door,Vintage Photo and Spun Sugar.
Added more strips of tissue tape. A left over thin strip of music pattern paper was coloured with Antique Linen distress stain, cut into three and added to tag.
Vintage paper image of Lady completes the tag.
Edged tag in Walnut Stain ink
It turned out better than I was expecting...love it and had fun along the way.

Book Page Background

2011-08-17T08:14:00.000+10:00

Stampotique Designers Challenge is to Alter a Book Page.

You can use any stamps, but I just love Moth Fab from Stampotique.

Its not the best photo. Had to take the photo while the sun was shining before work.

This is the first time I have used a whole book page for a background...so much fun!
I applied white dabber paint lightly over the page.When dried sponged different colours of Pan Pastels until I was happy with the look. This is my first creation using the yummy Pan Pastels and I LOVE them!

Stamped the Stampotique fence onto page in Versafine black. Coloured the fence with more Pan Pastels and outlined with a black pen. The little hearts on the fence were filled in with black gelly pen for sparkle.
Moth Fab was stamped onto book page and again on scrap card. Coloured the scrap card image with pens and gelly pens,cut out and adhered over the first image on page.
Added stickles to Moth Fab's waistline.
I had previously attached the page to scrap card for stability.
Matted on orange card and then folded black card.

I am also entering this card for Simon Says Stamp and Show Some Bling!

Stay tuned for more book pages!

Tree Tag

2011-08-14T21:38:00.000+10:00

Try it on Tuesday's challenge is to show a tree on a tag.

To create the background I used Distress Stains in Faded Jeans and Wild Honey.
I received some fabulous new stamps in the mail this week from Unity. One is called
'Free to Be'.The branches and the sitting bird is part of this large set.
The owl (on top branch) and the three flying birds are from a small set of bird stamps from Typo. One of my favorite and so versatile. The words are from Darkroom Door 'Love Birds' stamp set. All stamps inked with Versfine black.
Walnut Stain Distress Ink sponged on the edges of the tag.

First Stampbord.

2011-08-08T22:21:00.000+10:00

I mentioned in my last blog post that one of my good blogging friends, Vicky, sent me some stampbord.

Well, it took me all day Sunday to find the courage to use it. I was afraid I would 'mess' it up.To my surprise and delight it was fun and easy to use!
It`s only my first attempt, so don't be too hard on me! LOL!

It's the first time I have used this adorable owl/girl image. I bought it cheap on ebay.
I stamped it in Versafine black. Distress Stains in Faded Jeans,Wild Honey,Vintage Photo and Walnut Stain were used.

The bird is from a small bird stamp set from Typo.

I had originally masked a circle for the moon....but had a mishap. So I have just punched a small white circle for the moon instead. I applied some Iridescent Medium over the moon to give it a 'silvery' shimmer. Hard to see in the photo.

White gelly pen used to create some stars.

HAPPY MAIL!

2011-08-07T11:52:00.000+10:00

One of the best things about blogging is that you 'meet' some lovely people.
Vicky is one of my blogging friends. A couple of weeks ago I was lucky and thrilled to receive some awesome happy mail from Vicky. Just looking at the envelope put a smile on my face.
In the envelope were a few different size of Stampboard,a quirky atc and a fab card.
I have been impressed with Vicky`s creativity using Stampbord and cannot wait to create something with it too!
To see some items Vicky made using Stampbord, have a look here
I am off to create something...with Stampbord!

THANK YOU VICKY!

RED YELLOW AND ORANGE STAMPOTIQUE.

2011-08-07T08:57:00.000+10:00

Red Yellow Orange is the theme over at Stampotique Designers Challenge blog.

I created a simple (but fun!) background for this card.
Randomly applied Gesso to white cardstock.When dried, applied Distress Stains in Fired Brick and Wild Honey.Then sponged some More Mustard distress ink.
Spiced Marmalade distress ink sponged around the outside edges.

'Gooseneck' stamped in black Versafine ink once onto the background and again on scrap white card. Coloured the scrap piece with orange gel pen (Papermate) and gold gelly pen.I then cut out the face/bow and from the shoulders to boots. Glued these over the first stamped image on card.

Stamped the sentiment (which I think so suits the image!)on scrap white card,cut out in three parts,sponged with More Mustard distress ink and glued to card.
Attached background to black card.

I am so loving my 12 Distress Stains....cannot wait for the rest of the 25 colours to arrive! Should be any day now :)

Embossing

2011-07-24T20:59:00.000+10:00

Great to see the sun today...still cold, but at least no rain!

I have come across a couple of techniques that I just had to try out.
Used them on this card

I found this awesome heat embossing technique using silver embossing powder and utee.
This technique was so much fun I made a few bird cages. On some I used gold embossing powder instead of silver. On one of the gold bird cages I omitted the black paint. They all looked fabulous!

The embossed background was made by dabbing Faded Jeans and Chipped Sapphire Distress inks onto a Cuttlebug folder and then lightly misted with water. Insert water colour paper and emboss through the Cuttlebug.

The tape across the bottom of the card is masking tape which I have rolled over a inked stamp.I applied some color to the tape with Antique Linen Distress Stain.
It's just like Tim Holtz's tissue tape...only easier on the pockets! Thinking it will also look good with a music pattern.

The bird cage and birds are Tim Holtz mini dies. (my fave!)
Brown/white twine to 'hold' bird cage.
'Love Birds' sentiment (Darkroom Door) stamped onto grunge paper which had been coloured with Faded Jeans Stain.
White paper flower sprayed with Bell Bottom Jeans Glimmer mist.

I am entering this card for TWO challenges. Simon Says show some embossing and Stampotique Designers Challenge to uses flowers.

I enjoyed making this card, so made another

On this card I used Forest Moss and Spiced Marmalade distress inks for the background. Same technique used on bird cage as first card, but changed the silver for gold embossing powder.
The branch is from Tim Holtz mini Branch and Leaf dies set.
The white flower was misted with Apple Glimmer mist .
Both cards have a folded black base to bring out the colours.

Napkin Birthday Card

2011-07-16T19:05:00.000+10:00

Made this card for my mother in law for her 95th birthday. She is an amazing woman for her age. Only looks about 75 and is still able to get out and about on her own.
I had to make it quickly last night and added the flowers this morning. Her birthday lunch was today!

I am not 100 per cent happy with it, but my MIL loved it!

Started with a folded 4x4 white card. Tore the napkin and adhered to card with napkin glue.
Sponged some Vintage Photo distress ink around the edges of napkin and on some of the white spaces on the card.
Stamped birthday sentiment (EK Success)in Rusty Brown stazon ink and punched out with Word Window punch. Sprayed two white paper flowers with Crushed Sand and Gold glimmer mist before adhering to card.

BIRD SONG

2011-07-12T22:20:00.000+10:00

Hello!
Tonight I have made a tag for Try It On Tuesday challenge.
This week it is all about birds and bees.

I applied Distress Stains Faded Jeans,Broken China and Forest Moss to manila tag.
Stamps are Love Birds and Wildflowers VOL2 from Darkroom Door. All stamps were stamped in black Versafine ink. Weathered Wood Distress ink swiped around outside edges of tag.

This was a fun and quick tag.

Scrapmatts House

2011-07-10T09:33:00.000+10:00

This was made at a Scrapmatts class while at the Brisbane Craft Expo.

Just realised I have a couple of things to add to the front cover.

Was a lot fun painting,inking and assembling the cover.
The house album has 6 chipboard pages. I have some ideas brewing for the pages.
Will be adding lots of ribbon and fibres to the book rings.
I was going to put an old family photo in the frame, but decided to use this gorgeous image instead.

KRAFT MALE

2011-07-06T10:42:00.000+10:00

This card is for THREE challenges today.Whoo! Go me!
Stampotique Designers blog challenges us to use scraps and must use Stampotique stamps.
CAS-ual Fridays challenge is to use Kraft,Clean and Simple, Masculine!
Playdate Cafe using the colour theme.Tried to bring out the colours in 'Eric'

Folded Kraft card for base.Stamped 'Scratches' background stamp(Darkroom Door) in Vintage Photo distress ink onto the kraft card. LOVE that stamp!
'Eric' (Stampotique)another favourite! stamped on scrap white card,coloured with markers and aquapen and then adhered to the kraft card.
A scrap of hessian used to 'mat' the sentiment (smile)from Darkroom Door 'All Occasions' stamp set.
Please let me know what you think if you have time...I love to get comments! :)

ONE LAYER CARD

2011-07-05T16:57:00.000+10:00

Susan, over at Simplicity has challenged us to make a one layer card using stamped images and/or sentiments.
NO extra cardstock
NO embellishments
NO masking
No sponging

CAS (clean and simple)

We could layer with ink.

On a folded white card I stamped the Reindeer in Barn Door distress ink.
The sentiment stamped next in black versafine ink.
This was surprisingly fun to do...so I made about 12 cards in a few minutes.

Some with a different sentiment.

Some I had to add a little bling

See the bling on the nose?

And then got carried away!

All stamps are from Darkroom Door 'Christmas Reindeer' set.

HOT CHRISTMAS

2011-07-04T16:41:00.000+10:00

The Artistic Stamper has a challenge to use HOT COLOURS.

I needed to start on my Christmas cards, so this is what I made.

Its a very quick and simple card.

Distress Stain Wild Honey over white card.Then swiped Wild Honey distress ink direct to paper at random and around edge of card.
Stamps are from my favourite Darkroom Door 'Christmas Reindeer' set.
The Reindeer and words inked with Barn Door distress ink.
'PEACE' was stamped on white card,cut out and adhered with foam tape. The other two words were stamped direct to card.
Gold Kindy Glitz for the antlers.The black card base make the colours even more vivid.

I think I will be making a few of these simple Christmas cards for people who are likely to throw it away!

Distress Stains make it so quick.

HELLO!

2011-07-03T16:54:00.001+10:00

Quick and easy card today.

Wild Honey distress stain applied to white card. Stamped Darkroom Door word stamp in black Versafine ink. Stamped just the HELLO in Dusty Concord distress ink on scrap white paper,cut out and edged in Wild Honey distress ink. This was popped over the black HELLO with foam tape.
I then took a larger piece of white card and stamped the Darkroom Door Scratches background stamp in Dusty Concord ink. This piece was used to mat the word panel.Then adhered to folded black card.

Entering this card for the Simon Says Stamp and Show a WORD

My word is HELLO.

Purple Pumpkin Giveaway!!!

2011-07-03T14:58:00.000+10:00

Hello! Just popping in to let you know about the fantastic GIVEAWAY on the Purple Pumpkin blog

Click on the Purple Pumpkin link to find out all the details!

Hello Baby!

2011-06-28T18:13:00.000+10:00

This is the June sketch challenge over at Purple Pumpkin

As soon as I saw it I knew I just had to create a card using the Darkroom Door Montages.

I started with a black card base. On white card I created my own background using a stamp from Darkroom Door 'Hello Baby' Vol 1. It was inked in a pastel yellow ink from Paintbox by ColorBox. The 'hello baby' is from the same stamp set and inked in versafine black. The cute montages were distressed and edged in Dried Marigold distress ink.
The white doily is a small left over piece. The small yellow doily and the yellow spotted button is from Purple Pumpkin. The black and white polka dot ribbon completes the card.

Sorry its not the best photo, but if you click on it to enlarge, you will see the details more clearly.

I really enjoyed this sketch. Made me think outside the box.I will be using this sketch again...soon!

Seeing Spots and Napkins!

2011-06-26T12:40:00.001+10:00

My first attempt at using napkins on canvas...and not my last!

Entering this for Moxie Fab Trigger Tuesday inspiration

I was inspired with the vintage shabby feel and the polka dots.

Inkurable Stampers challenge for this month is Spots,Dots and Circles.

While at the Brisbane Papercraft Expo I saw a demo of applying napkins to canvas.

I was hooked! Last week I went along to the Sydney Papercraft Expo so I could do a mini workshop. I did a napkin on a journal cover. The end result too embarrassing to show on the blog! The tutor was excellent,I just need a bit more practice on a smaller scale. The hardest part is applying the right amount of structure paste in the right place. So on this canvas I just applied a small amount under the bird's belly.

The 6x6 canvas was painted with Viva Metal in Blue Lagoon. Has a lovely shimmery effect. Foam circle/spots stamps stamped over canvas with white paint.
The gorgeous clock and bird are from two different napkins.
The LIFE quote is a pre cut sticker,which was distressed with antique linen ink.

Large flower has a Polka Dots button from Purple Pumpkin. I distressed the button with antique linen distress ink. The two small white flowers sprayed with Sand Glimmer mist. Leaves are a magnetic die from Tim Holtz Mini Branch and Leaf set.(LOVE!)
I used a bone scorer to score lines on the leaves and then distressed with antique linen distress ink.

Added some small and large white pearls to the outside of the clock (just a few!)

The napkins are from Bargain World. Just $2.50 for a pack of 20. So you don't have to spend a fortune for beautiful napkins.

Off to find those other napkins I have buried somewhere!

Just Playing.

2011-06-22T13:57:00.001+10:00

Two cards I made while on holidays in Brisbane.
The first card using the new mini rosette with a Kaiser brad. Pattern paper for background. Changed colour of white lace with antique linen distress stain.
Yes....I just had to use one of the ladies from my fave stamp set again! :)

Next is a sewing theme card. Double sided pattern paper from Kaiser was the inspiration. Coloured the measurement tape twill with Vintage Photo distress stain and wiped some of the excess of with a dry cloth. The spool is from Tim Holtz Sewing Room die plate. The spool was coloured with Broken China stain,edges inked with Vintage Photo ink.Brown and white twine wrapped around the spool. Three buttons completes the card.

While at the Brisbane show, I was hoping to find a stamp set with just sewing themed words.No luck! I feel it needs a sentiment. Thinking 'SEW Happy for you'
'SEW Special', etc. Any ideas would be most welcomed!

1920's Chic and Steampunk Class

2011-06-20T15:12:00.000+10:00

I thoroughly enjoyed this class taught by the lovely Rachel Greig from Darkroom Door.
We made two cards and two atc's using yummy Distress Stains,Distress Inks, lovely lace from The Craft Queen and some Timmy embellishments!
Steampunk card

I chose to stamp the man and balloon on the textured side of the card stock for a different look....not sure if I liked the texture so made another card after the class

This time stamped on the smooth side. I also used a darker brown ink for the cogs.
Next is a card using my fave set from 1920's Chic

I later noticed that I forgot two of the brads for the bookplate!(shhhh! don't tell!)
Two ATC's

I love making ATC's.

I am off now to finish my ATC's for this month's Darkroom Door swap which is Love Letters.

I'M BACK!

2011-06-19T15:46:00.000+10:00

Lynne and I had a FABULOUS time in Brisbane followed by three sunny days at Golden Beach Caloundra.
The Scrapbook Expo was fun.I did five classes and a couple of make and takes.
One of the classes was Mini Canvas by Melissa Kennedy using Kaisercraft products.
The 'canvas' is actually three wood blocks. They were painted,covered with pattern paper and inked.

They can be hung individually or joined together. I love the first one

I just love the picket fence and combination of flowers and the doily. So Shabby Chic!

A rub on quote

More flowers

Will be back tomorrow with another creation :)

Holiday

2011-06-07T21:25:00.000+10:00

Leaving early in the morning for our trip up to Brisbane for the Scrapbook and Papercraft Expo this long weekend!
Will be spending a few extra days on the Sunshine Coast and hope to do some sight seeing and paper crafting.
I started my holidays one week ago and was hoping to have a couple of cards up on the blog. How do I find time to go to work? Been busy getting ready for the trip and trying to recover from the cold.The warmer weather in Queensland hopefully will do me good.
I am booked into five classes while at the Expo, so should have some creations to inspire you when I return. Until then, stay inky!

PDCC83

2011-05-29T14:28:00.000+10:00

The colour challenge this week at Play Date Cafe is Black,White and a Splash of Green.

I started with a folded black card.I embossed white card with 'Timeworks' embossing folder by Sizzix. Swiped black distress ink over the embossed card.

Stamped 'Eric' (Stampotique) in black versafine ink once on to white card and again onto a green paint swatch sample card. I cut out the green clothing and paper pieced to the cut out white stamped image. I like how it looks as if Eric has a white stripe on his shirt. Its just where the different shades of green are on the paint swatch. I popped Eric on with small foam squares.

Die cut one large and two small black mini cogs and glued to card. Then placed a small black button with a slightly larger green button on top on to each cog.
Matted white embossed card onto olive green card.

Diamonds and Pearls

2011-05-27T16:12:00.001+10:00

This week at Sunday Stamper the theme is Diamonds and Pearls.

I made this tag

I die cut a tag from white glossy card.Smooched the tag with alcohol ink in Juniper and Pink Sherbet. (Same technique as explained in previous post)

Randomly stamped parts of the Design Block "Butterflies" (Hero Arts) in black stazon.

The wording is one of the stamps from the 1920's Chic stamp set (Darkroom Door). It was stamped in black stazon on scrap piece of alcohol ink colored gloss card.

The dress form is cut out from a tissue! I could not believe my eyes when I saw the packet of 10 pocket tissues ($1.50) with this gorgeous design on them.

I added white pearls to the dress and some stickles on the hem.

Clear 'diamonds' added to some of the swirls on the tag.
A 'antique' brad with pearl centre added to top of tag.

Purple Pumpkin May Sketch Challenge

2011-05-25T13:25:00.000+10:00

Purple Pumpkin have their first ever challenge. It's this sketch

You can create a anything as long as you follow the sketch and use at least one embellishment from Purple Pumpkin. I recently bought some fab buttons and doilies and decided to use one of the vintage buttons. I created this card

Click on photo to enlarge for better view.

It took me a while to decide how to fit this sketch onto a card (not done a scrapbook page for a few years!)I think I have only done one sketch challenge before, so hope I have not broken any rules here.

Started with a 5in square kraft card. Yesterday I was playing with alcohol inks and created this cute image. I just had to make a card with it. I was inspired by an article in Craft Stamper (UK)April issue to make alcohol ink backgrounds.
I placed Pink Sherbet and Butterscotch alcohol ink on craft mat with a little blending solution and gently dragged the gloss card through the ink to pick up the colour.I stamped the friend image from Stampers anonymous (Tim Holtz) in black stazon. The word 'friend' stamped on scrap of same card.
The first layer on the card base is card that was packaging for the Making Memories ephemera stickers. Too pretty to throw out! The second layer( brown spotted strips) are some of the stickers. The third layer is also from Making Memories (Journal Pad). The alcohol background image is next. I placed the Purple Pumpkin vintage spotted button on the lower right hand side of image.
The sketch was flipped sideways to fit my image.

The image layer was distressed with distressing tool and all layers were edged with Vintage Photo distress ink.

I nearly gave up on this one, but glad I pushed on! That's why its called a challenge...to make you think out side the box. I am happy with the end result :)

Any comments and advice most welcomed!

It's FIVE o'clock Somewhere!

2011-05-22T13:21:00.002+10:00

Did my title catch your attention? No, I have not started drinking early in the day!
The challenge over at Inkurable Stampers is FOOD.
It took me a while to think of an idea....I had plenty of time the last few days to think about it while suffering from the flu! So last night I was feeling a little better and this fun and bright creation just 'fell' into place. LOL!

Maybe I was thinking of the Stamp Cruise I am going on in March, hosted by the lovely Rachel Greig from Darkroom Door....well it did make me feel better!

This is the back of the tag

Started with a large manila tag. Covered most of the front with paper from 6x6 paper pad S.E.I called "Happy Day" Very appropriate for this tag!
If you click on the tag photo to enlarge, you may see the glitter on the paper.
The top of the front of the tag and all the back was coloured with Wild Honey Distress Stain. YUM!
I used the same paper to die cut two circle tabs for the front and back of tag.
The yummy cocktail is from a paper napkin. I cut it out and adhered to double sided jac paper (sticky paper) I did not remove the back layer of the jac paper.Adhered to tag using small foam squares under the fruit to add dimension. Some stickles added to fruit. I attached a charm to the stem of the wine glass.
The 5 and 'celebrate' from Purple Onion stamps, stamped in black on white card and cut out. Edged in Wild Honey ink. Other three words were printed from computer.
Back of tag stamped 'happy birthday' as a border in black ink.
Make a Wish,Cake Time and to:from: stamps from Purple Onion. "Party" is a word strip from Darkroom Door Sweet Treats collection.
Two small cupcakes cut from the same paper pad as on the front.
Orange ribbon to finish.
The Happy Birthday stamp is from the String Sentiments Set (Darkroom Door),which I just received this week by mail from the Craft Queen. Love it!

Vintage Chic!

2011-05-22T12:31:00.001+10:00

The challenge this week for PDCC82 is to use the colours from

This photo.
Love the vintage scene. My first thought was vintage shabby chic.
So this is the card I came up with

I have used a couple of new items.A couple of months ago, I won a huge box of paper, stamps and embellishments from the USA just from commenting on a blog hop!
I have momentarily forgotten the name of the blog...but the lovely giver of the parcel was Tiffany. The background paper and glass flower centre was part of the parcel.Both from Making Memories (Paper Reverie)The paper was torn out from a spirlal journaling book. Stamped Hero Arts Manuscript Background stamp in Vintage Photo distress ink onto torn out paper. Edged in Walnut Stain distress ink.
Distress Stains....love them!!! Broken China distress stain used to lightly colour white lace. Small bright yellow doily from Purple Pumpkin was coloured over with Antique Linen distress stain to darken it for a more vintage look.Then added the glass embellishment.
The lovely chic lady was stamped twice, once on cream and blue card stock in black ink. I cut the dress and hat from the blue card and glued over the cream cut out lady image. Mini foam squares used to pop the lady on the card.
Sentiment stamped in Vintage Photo onto vanilla card and edged in Walnut Stain ink.
The lady's belt and centre of bow on hat was coloured with gold gelly pen.

The lady and sentiment from the lovely Darkroom Door set '1920's Chic'

See challenge details here

Owl Tri Fold Shutter Card

2011-05-16T17:33:00.002+10:00

It had been a while since I made a Tri Fold Shutter card.
So after I had seen this awesome card I just had to case it!

Here is mine

And inside

My daughter saw it and just had to have it for a 21st she was attending.
There was room for her to write a message with white gel pen on the blue card and red heart.

Make sure you check out the rest of Darlene's blog Darlene Design.com as she does awesome cards AND videos!

Thank you Darlene for letting me case your fun card.

Play Date Colour Challenge.

2011-05-15T20:54:00.001+10:00

I am entering this card for two challenges Play Date Colour Challenge
and Stampotique Recycle, Reuse or Re Purpose challenge

The Play Date Challenge is to use the three colours shown. Purple,green and light grey.
Stampotique Designers Challenge is to Recycle,Reuse or Re purpose.
The roses image was left over from another project...so I guess you could say it is re purposed.
Roses (Darkroom Door photo stamp) was inked with Distress Stains in Dusty Concord onto a light purple card stock and then adhered to light grey card, then folded Olive green card.
Just got my supply of Distress Stains this week and I am loving them!
Thanks for coming by, love to receive comments!

Stampotique Sketch Challenge

2011-05-10T20:45:00.000+10:00

This fortnight its a Sketch using only Stampotique stamps. The details are here
I have used some pattern paper and a small white tag. The tag was embossed with Tim Holtz folder 'brickwall'. I then just swiped black soot distress ink over the embossed tag. 'Gooseneck' is attached with small foam squares. Her skirt is paper pieced. Gelly pens to colour.

Hands

2011-05-08T21:13:00.000+10:00

Hello again. Hope all the mums out there had a wonderful Mothers Day.
Simon Says Stamp and Show HANDS
So I made a tag showing clock hands and a pointing finger.

I've used the same technique as shown on my Orange,Black and White ATC's last week.
Painted black paint over a manila tag,stamped clocks and dots background with watermark ink,heat embossed in clear.Painted over with twilight purple paint.
When almost dry, wipe with a slightly damp cloth to remove excess paint away from the stamped images.
Black enamel accent on one of the clock hands and on the circle reinforcement at top of tag. How lucky was I to have the perfect ribbon to match! It's been sitting in my ribbon jar forever!
Stamps...Hand from Purple Onion,Roman Clock from Stamp It and Dots from Stampin Up.

MEN

2011-05-08T10:28:00.000+10:00

I made this card for Sunday Stampers theme MEN
Think I might have just missed the dead line! I stayed up late last night hot gluing the shells on the card. Had to wait until this morning to take photos. So here it is

The stamp is an old one from Stamp It called 'The Boys'
I paper pieced the shorts/swimmers in scrap pattern paper. Water coloured with distress inks.Think they look sunburn enough? LOL!
Distress inks and cloud punch to create background on white card.
Stamped shells from Darkroom Door Seaside in Tea Dye onto the folded Kraft card.
Mesh ribbon and shells completes the card.

Lovely Vintage Lady Tag.

2011-05-01T20:23:00.001+10:00

I am on a roll....two posts in one evening!

Artistic Stamper challenge for May is Lovely Ladies Gorgeous Girls.
I so enjoyed making this tag. I had some ideas and techniques I wanted to try, so I just decided to play with my favourite inks and paints and this was the end result

Background is distress inks,crackle paint,Tim Holtz background stamp.
The torn paper was first stamped with a Music stamp and sponged over with vintage photo distress ink. The words are stamps and the lovely lady is a paper image.

Orange Black and White

2011-05-01T20:03:00.000+10:00

Inkurable Stampers had a Artist Trading Card (ATC)swap to celebrate their 3rd birthday. The theme Orange Black and White. We had to make nine all the same.
All my lovely crafty friend know I love owls....

I made a second set using a new funky stamp from Paper Salon called Swirl Dress Stand.
Its just the perfect size for ATC's.
I am entering this one for a challenge at Simon Says Stamp and Show some buttons.

The background for this one was black and orange paint,and heat embossing in clear.
Think I will be doing more of these fun backgrounds.

WINGS

2011-04-25T08:09:00.000+10:00

Happy Easter to all my lovely followers...hope you are enjoying the weekend.
The challenge at Sunday Stamper
is WINGS. I came up with this tag.

Manila tag was sprayed with Glimmer mists Sand,Gold,Riptide and Coffee...oh what fun!
Heat dried. A cut up white paper doily sprayed with Gold glimmer mist.Dried then sponged on Antique Linen distress ink.
Stamped music background (Penny Black)onto vanilla card in black ink. Tore three small pieces,sponged with Tea Dye and edged in Vintage Photo distress inks.
Hero Arts Old French Writing partly stamped in black randomly on tag.
White lace misted with Sand glimmer mist.When dried attached to bottom of tag and some pearls added.
The cherubs paper image sponged with Old Paper distress ink and attached over doily.
Star Dust stickles applied to the wings.
Tag was edged in Walnut Stain distress ink.

Lord Tim of Holtz Technique.

2011-04-19T22:27:00.001+10:00

There is a fun challenge over at Simon Says Stamp and Show
You need to pick a Tim Holtz technique. I chose masking.
I had never tried the masking technique before. Will be doing a lot more of them!
This is what I came up with....

I created my background using the wrinkle free distress technique. The distress ink colours are Wild Honey,Worn Lipstick and Shabby Shutters.
Then I used mini mask Floret with Rusty Hinge distress ink.
Stampers Anonymous stamps 'Eclectic Palette', 'Urban Tapestry' (specks)butterflies and other small bird stamps were inked with Versafine black.
Walnut Stain distress around the edges of the tag.
Lord Tim of Holtz challenge

Distressing

2011-04-16T16:30:00.000+10:00

Its been raining all day here in Sydney. Good day for crafting! :)
Simon Says Stamp
has a challenge to use Distressing on your project.
This is my favorite technique! At the moment my favorite stamps are 1920's Chic stamp set from Darkroom Door.

The background is Floral notepaper, also from Darkroom Door. I blended Distress inks Worn Lipstick and Frayed Burlap with blending tool onto the notepaper.
The stamped text is Manuscript Background stamp from Hero Arts.
The edges of the notepaper was distressed with distressing tool.
The lady was coloured with Worn Lipstick and Tea Dye Distress inks and aqua brush.
Added green ruffled ribbon, then attached to Kraft folded card.

For fun, I also made a tag using a different 1920's lady with the same notepaper background. Distress inks used here were Rusty Hinge and Wild Honey.
Will add some ribbon later.

Stampotique Newsprint Challenge

2011-04-15T07:19:00.000+10:00

This fun tag was created for the challenge at Stampotique
to use newsprint.
Distress inks Broken China,Wild Honey and Vintage Photo applied to tag with blending too.
Faded Jeans crackle paint randomly applied. When dried, stamped diamond pattern with Brushed Corduroy distress ink. This stamp from Stampers Anonymous 'Creative Textures'
Glued torn pieces of Kraft Newsprint tissue paper to tag.
I just had to use adorable Eric from Stampotique. He was stamped with Versafine black on white card. Paper pieced his funky shorts and scarf with paper from Tim Holtz Distressables collection.
Shirt and socks coloured with aquabrush and Broken China ink. Boots in Black Soot. Face,legs and hands Old Paper ink to give a very pale skin colour.
Vintage Photo ink around edges of tag.
Eric is attached with small foam squares.
This tag was so much fun to make....think I will make some cards using the same yummy products!

3 CHALLENGE

2011-04-13T20:21:00.000+10:00

The challenge this month at Inkurable Stampers
is 3. They are celebrating their 3rd birthday.
We have to use the number 3,3 stamps (each stamp can be used multiple times) and 3 colours.Black and white count as colours.

I have used black white and red as my 3 colours.
White cardstock was sponged with Distress Ink Barn Door. Black Soot Distress Ink around the sides.
Mixed Numbers (Stamp it 2007) stamped three times in Versafine black for the background. Stamped again on scrap card in Barn Door. The 23 cut out and 'spotlighted' over the black 23 on the card.
The black 23 at bottom right hand side is grungboard painted over with black enamel accent. Barn Door ink sponged on edges.The ? is a sticker.
The girl, Moth Fab (Stampotique) was stamped in Versafine black,coloured with gelly pens and attached to front of card with foam squares. I added a grungeboard crown which was painted with Barn Door crackle paint. White pearls added to the crown.
I just love this image...I call her Abby as she reminds me of Abby from the TV show NCIS. I reckon she looks sassy with the crown.
The 3rd stamp is inside the card

HA HA HA! It cracks me up every time! Its also from Stampotique.

I also made this card for my eldest daughter who is turning 23 next week.
Hope this card brings you a smile!

STORING STAMPS.

2011-04-03T14:56:00.000+10:00

Hello stamping friends.

Today I am posting some pictures of how I store my Darkroom Door stamps.
I have 22 yummy sets! They come in flat tins.
I found they fit nicely on their side in a small carry/luggage bag.

To find the right set quickly, I have written the name of the set in permanent marker on the side of the tin

Close up view

It fits 17 sets this way, so I have four on top like this

There is one tin in a outside pocket. I am now going to have to look for a slightly bigger bag.....I have a feeling there are more sets to come! ;)

Besides been neat and tidy, its easy to transport when going to a stamp day/weekend.
If I can`t make up my mind which sets I want to use, I just take the lot!

So, how do you store your stamps?

Inspired By Jill Foster

2011-03-31T19:23:00.000+11:00

Joy over at Less is More
has been honoring her favourite card makers.She has also posted her first challenge!
The challenge is to make a card/project inspired by another card maker
I am inspired by so many stampers,it was difficult to narrow down to just one!
I chose this card

How gorgeous is this card? I just love it!
I love the way Jill blends the Distress Inks so beautifully. Her butterflies are out of this world too! Colours are always vibrant .
Here is my card
Its no where near as beautiful as Jill's card, but I enjoyed making it.
The over hanging 'tree' is actually a flower/stem stamp. This and the grass stamp are from Purple Onions Designs. The butterflies and sentiment stamps from Darkroom Door.

I would like to say THANK YOU to all the awesome people who left me lovely comments on my new blog. It makes my day! :)
Check out Jill's awesome blog...you will be INSPIRED!

Lady in Red

2011-03-28T18:51:00.000+11:00

I had a fantastic weekend away with my friend Lynne at a stamp camp.
Thanks Lorraine! You did an awesome job! I learnt lots of new techniques.
The background on this card is Marbling using Smooch. Such a fun technique!
I stamped a Hero Arts script background in Stazon. Stampers Anonymous Urban Tapestry corner stamp was inked in Versafine black.
The lady is from Darkroom Door 1920's Chic stamp set...love it! I stamped her twice in black ink. I then inked the Darkroom Door Plaid Background stamp in Barn Door distress ink and stamped over the second lady image. I then cut out the red skirt and paper pieced to the first cut out image.
Coloured the hat,cape and handbag with Barn Door ink using my water brush.
Black gelly pen to highlight the belt, part of the handbag and ribbon on hat.
The quote is also in Barn Door ink. The classy lady and the quote are attached with foam squares. Background is attached to folded black card.
I am very happy on how this card turned out...hope you like it!
The photo is a touch blurry, sorry about that...maybe I should take photos rather than scanning?
If anyone is interested to know how to do the Marbling, just email me or let me know in the comments box. If enough people are interested I may try and do step by step photo tutorial!

WELCOME TO MY BLOG!

2011-03-24T16:06:00.000+11:00

I would first like to thank Fiona Shultz and her wonderful kids Emily and Jacob for helping me set up my blog.
The amazing thing is I have never met Fiona in person. I have gotten to know Fiona through her wonderful and creative art on stamping blogs and challenges.

Now for my first post!

The challenge at Inkurable Stampers is PAINT. http://inkurablestampers.blogspot.com/2011/03/quick-theme-for-march-2011-is.html

I created a wall hanging with four small ATC size canvases.
Two of them were painted with Pool dabber paint.The other two were painted on the back (to turn into `shadow boxes`) in Mushroom dabber paint,then antique linen crackle paint. The 'lazy days' box I applied some scattered straw distress embossing powder to the bottom right hand side. The shadow boxes were also painted inside with Pool paint.
Darkroom Door Seaside VOL1 stamps were used on all four. Inked with Versafine black.
The bird is from the Darkroom Door Love Birds set.
Darkroom Door Seaside film strips attached with foam tape inside shadow boxes.
White mesh ribbon and some of the shells were misted with Sand glimmer mist.
Shells attached with hot glue gun.
Gold gelly pen for light in Lighthouse,some jute on starfish canvas.
A piece of sturdy cardboard was painted with Pool paint and jute for hanging was attached with staples.
The four canvases then attached with hot glue.

If you have made it this far....thank you!
I would love to hear what you think of my new blog and first post.
Any ideas or suggestions are most welcomed!