To INKfinity and Beyond!

Stamp A Stack details

2011-11-15T20:10:00.001-07:00

Christmas Stamp A Stack round 2

2011-11-12T18:12:00.001-07:00

I have opened my Christmas Stamp A Stack for another round. The next round will be held on December 3rd starting at 10 am.

Christmas Card Stamp A Stack

2011-10-30T21:25:00.000-06:00

I have holding a Stamp A Stack on Saturday, November 12th starting at 10 am. Come make 10 cards for $15, then $1.25 per card after the first 10. Please let me know how many of each card you want!

Projects I've been working on

2011-07-10T21:20:00.001-06:00

Last Chance Stamp A Stack

2011-06-24T09:40:00.000-06:00

Last Chance Stamp a Stack will be held at my house on Tuesday, June 28th at 7 pm. Come make 2 cards of each style for $10 ($13 if you want me to make your cards for you). All cards are made using retiring stamp sets. Leave a comment with your email address if you need more information and I'll get back to you.

April 30th Stamp-A-Stack

2011-04-09T14:44:00.001-06:00

For this Stamp-A-Stack, you will make 10 cards total--two of each design. That way you won't feel guilty giving away at least one of the cards.

Cost is $10. Pre-pay only please.

*Click on any of the photos to enlarge for detail.

Blogger wasn't cooperating...sorry that the pictures are all on their side. I couldn't get them rotated, so you'll just have to tilt your head.

March Club

2011-03-23T18:20:00.000-06:00

**Just one of the projects we are making at club this month. If you want to come and make it along with the other project, leave a comment and I'll get back to you!

Scrapbook Class

2011-01-29T20:11:00.001-07:00

You will make the awesome layouts below. Please leave a comment if you are interested including contact information. Click on the flier above to get the details.

Candy Factory

2010-12-16T08:35:00.004-07:00

We have become a candy factory at our house lately. We started by making nougat. Then we started playing with different flavoring. So far we have made vanilla, orange (my favorite), raspberry, cherry, and banana nougat. We also made a vanilla nougat covered with a layer of carmel. We have made 4 batches of carmel. We plan to dip most of the nougat in chocolate today.

Last night, I made two batches of divinity. Again, we have enjoyed playing with flavorings. I made banana divinity. I LOVE it. It reminds me of circus peanuts. I also made a batch of coconut divinity. It didn't set up right. I was in a bit of a hurry thanks to a certain 2 year old...so they were sticky. I decided since they were sticky, I'd put coconut on top. I hope that our neighbors enjoy them. I know that my husband will.

I received a recipe for microwave divinity many years ago. I still use it every time. It is SO easy.

Microwave Divinity:

3 eggs whites

4 cups sugar

1 cup Karo syrup

3/4 cup water

1 tsp vanilla

In a large microwave safe bowl combine the sugar, Karo syrup, and water. Cover, but vent. Heat in microwave on high for 10 minutes. Stir. Recover and heat on high for another 9 minutes. While the sugar mixture is cooking, beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. I recommend using a Kitchenaid mixer as this recipe make a lot and you need a strong machine.

Once the sugar mixture is cooked, slowly pour it into the eggs while beating constantly. Add vanilla and coloring if desired. Beat on the highest speed your mixer can handle until the divinity sets up (about room temperature). You know when it sets up because it is no longer shiny and when you lift the beater up, the divinity doesn't sink back down.

Spoon onto wax paper and let it completely cool. Once you start spooning it, work quickly because it sets up very quickly once it really starts to cool. It makes 40 to 70 pieces depending on the size you spoon them out.

I thought I'd include a picture of the world's cutest chocolatier!

Christmas Gifts

2010-12-04T20:12:00.000-07:00

This is what I've been up to this weekend.

Birthdays

2010-11-30T20:10:00.004-07:00

I created this card for my wonderful sister in law for her birthday. I used the color coach to help me pick the colors. It was a big hit.

I love using paper to create fun flowers. I made this card for my mom for her birthday. She really liked it. Again, I used the color coach to help me pick colors. I don't know that I would have put these together without it's help.

For my birthday, I got spoiled! My wonderful mother in law gave me money to get exactly what I wanted. I took advantage of free shipping, hosting a party, and my discount to maximize the amount of product I was able to get. I think I did pretty well. Now I can't wait to get playing!

Table Runner

2010-11-22T19:15:00.003-07:00

I got this brillant idea to make a table runner that serves two purposes...to decorate for Thanksgiving and for Christmas. I found the wonderful fall fabric at Pine Needles in West Jordan. I knew I had to get it. So I came home and cut it up. I was able to make 3 runners with it. For the Christmas side, I got fabric from my stash (for my personal runner, not pictured), and picked up more fabric from Wal-mart. I made the runner pictured for my mother for her birthday. She loved it! I love the idea of having a table runner that lasts for 2 months instead of just one. I'm thinking of making 5 more so that I have all the months covered!

Christmas Stamp-A-Stack

2010-10-29T13:31:00.004-06:00

When: Saturday, November 20^th

Time: 11am to 3 pm

Where: Lynsey Allred’s House

2224 West 10755 South, Basement apartment, South Jordan

Cost: $15 ($10 reserves your spot)

RSVP: lynseyvanorman@yahoo.com or 801-721-0889

A stack of cards consists of 3 cards in each of the 5 designs. For this class you will make 1 stack, but if you are interested in creating multiple stacks and getting all of your Christmas cards made in one day, just add $12.50 for each additional stack. I will have envelopes there to purchase for $3 for a set of 15. Don’t forget to bring your adhesive. I will have refills there if you need to purchase them.

October Club Projects

2010-10-18T11:14:00.004-06:00

For these projects I used "Delightful Decorations" , "Tags 'til Chirstmas", and "Four the Holidays" stamp sets. Paper used is old olive, chocolate chip, cherry cobbler, and crumb cake. Ink used is old olive and cherry cobbler. I also used early espresso and old olive 1/8 taffeta ribbon and the half pearls. The Designer Series Paper is Jolly Holiday.

Fall Wreath

2010-10-13T21:25:00.002-06:00

This is the new wreath that I have hanging on my door. I love it. It was so easy. I got packs of fall leaves at Wal-mart last year. I picked up some foam core at the dollar store. I cut it into a square. Then I pulled out the glue gun and went to work. It is super easy and it is super light...it is held on my door by a magnet.

Fall Scrapbook Layout

2010-09-28T11:48:00.002-06:00

Halloween Costumes for Mr. Owl

2010-09-21T22:08:00.002-06:00

The top picture is of the box front for the cards that are pictured in the bottom picture.

If you are interested in making these cute card and aren't in my stamping club, please leave a comment with your contact info and I'll get back to you.

Thanks for looking!

Train patch quilt

2010-08-09T20:27:00.003-06:00

I purchased the train fabric 3 years ago (I think) at Hobby Lobby so I could make a lap quilt for my husband. Needless to say, I didn't make it three years ago. We decided to do a train theme in my son's "big boy" room, so I spent a few hours piecing the number above. I wanted to break up the train fabric with some conductor hat fabric, but thought it would be overpowering, so I made the 4 patch blocks instead. I LOVE how the top turned out. We will be tying the quilt at his birthday party on the 19th.

Here is a better look at the patches themselves. Isn't the train fabric fabulous?

Airplane Disappearing Nine-Patch

2010-07-13T21:04:00.002-06:00

The matching pillow for the quilt below.

I finally finished the quilt top for my son. I bought the fabric over a year ago. I cut the squares for the center out FOREVER ago. I spent the last three nights working on it. Totaling about 7 hours. I had some trouble with the borders and not having enough fabric. I ended up having to cut the middle border down. Originally it was 1.5 inches wider. I LOVE IT.

Now, I want to get it professionally quilted. Anyone know where I can get it done? Finished size is 54 x 62 inches. How much will it cost? I will need it by mid August.

I've Been Busy

2010-07-10T21:26:00.002-06:00

Enjoying my summer!

Happy Father's Day

2010-06-20T13:41:00.002-06:00

Last Chance Party

2010-06-12T16:33:00.002-06:00

Below are the five projects we will be creating. I really hope to see you there!

Last Chance!

2010-06-01T12:06:00.004-06:00

The Last Chance Lists are here! Click on the following links to see what products are retiring.

Stamp Sets

Accessories

Definitely Decorative

Shop 24 hours a day by clicking on my Stampin' Up! Website on the side bar. Or, leave me a comment with your contact info and I'll get back to you.

My Digital Studio

2010-05-28T12:14:00.002-06:00

I decided it was time to order My Digital Studio from Stampin' Up! I have never used any scrapbooking software before. Loading the program on my computer was super easy. I do wish the software came with an instruction manual, but there are lots of resources online to help.

I spent about an hour creating this first layout from a blank page. I love how it turned out. I like that the mats around the pictures are color matched to my son's coat.

The program comes with lots of goodies. I also like that Stampin' Up! comes up with lots of fun downloads to add to the program. I can't wait to purchase more of them when my budget allows.

How to frame a cross stitch

2010-05-18T19:07:00.007-06:00

I have worked at three custom frame shops in my life. Part of my responsibility was to frame stitcheries. If done right, they will last for generations. If done wrong, you'll be lucky if they make it 20 years....

Having anything custom framed can break the bank. Having the stitchery stretched and prepped is a very expensive part of the process.

So, hopefully this tutorial will make sense...

Supplies:
stitchery
frame
foam core (that poster stuff that has foam in the middle)--acid free if you can get it
straight pins
double sided tape
glazing points (they keep the stuff in the frame)
hanging hardware
paper sack or butcher paper

Here goes...start by selecting a frame that your stitchery will fit in. I bought mine at Walmart. I liked that it had a wood insert that could be placed behind the glass so that the stitchery wouldn't touch the glass. (sorry no picture)

Next, cut a piece of foam core that will fit into your frame. If you can get acid free foam core use it!

Make sure that the foam core fits into the frame with just a little wiggle room.

Next, center the stitchery on the foam core. This can be a tricky step. I usually start by placing a pin into each side and the center and then folding the extra fabric around and measuring to make sure it is centered.

The next step is the painful step. You will pull the fabric taut as you go along each side. Place a pin every half inch or so. Place them straight down into the foam core.

A look at the top edge with all the pins in place. Once you are happy with the placement of the pins use the flat end of a pen (or something similar) to push the pins all the way in flush to the foam core.

Next, I like to use double sided super sticky tape to adhere the extra fabric to the back to the foam core. I NEVER cut off the extra just in case it needs to be reframed in the future for any reason.

Then I place it in the frame to make sure it fits.

Then I turn over the frame to make sure that it is centered the way I want it to be.

This is the wood insert that came with the frame. A mat would work the same way. Since it is wood, I didn't want the wood to actually touch the stitchery because it would ruin it.

To solve the "I don't want the wood to touch the fabric" problem, I used my handy dandy glue runner that I use for scrapbooking and adhered some acid free paper to the wood to protect the fabric. Where the paper wasn't long enough, I just overlapped it (no picture, sorry).

These are glazing points. They are found in the framing section of most craft stores. You just may need some way to secure the stitchery in place. The backing that came with my frame no longer fit properly because the foam core was too thick.

Just place them flush. The pointy end sticks into the frame. There is a tool to set them, but I always just use a flat head screwdriver.

For a nice finished look, I usually use butcher paper, but didn't have any, so I grabbed a paper bag and cut it open so that I could use it for backing.

Using the same handy dandy glue runner for scrapbooking, I ran adhesive along the edge of the frame and then placed the paper securing it as I went along. Then I used a razor blade to trim along the edge to give it the finished look that you get from most frame shops.

I then found the center of the top edge of the frame and marked it. If the frame is 11x14 or smaller you can use a sawtooth hanger. I like the nail-less kind. You can usually find them along side of the other framing hardware. They are truly worth the extra money.

It was a very narrow frame so the sawtooth barely fit. If you can, don't place it quite so close to the top edge.

Then, hang it on your wall and enjoy it!

If you have questions, please leave a comment and I'll try to answer them.

May's scrapbook layout

2010-05-17T11:41:00.002-06:00

One Sheet Wonder

2010-05-09T21:41:00.003-06:00

Here are the cards for the One Sheet Wonder that will be coming up on June 5th from 10 am to 2 pm. The cost is $10. Space is limited, so sign up as soon as possible to secure your spot before it's too late!

New Stampin' Around Build-a-wheels

2010-05-06T21:48:00.002-06:00

I LOVE the new build-a-wheels. Enjoy the two cards I made using the two styles offered in the new summer mini catalog. If you want to order them--visit my Stampin Up website anytime...

Ribbon Slider Card

2010-05-02T09:20:00.005-06:00

I was watching YouTube last night and found a tutorial for a ribbon slider card. It is super easy, but the insert doesn't slide back in very well. I think it would work better with satin ribbon. I can't wait to make more so that I can perfect the technique so I can teach it to others!

April Club Projects

2010-04-21T20:42:00.003-06:00

Since Easter was in April, I decided to do an Easter layout for club this month. I am still waiting for a stamp set (thanks for letting me borrow it Jen) that I need for the finishing touches. I just couldn't wait to post it because I think it turned out SUPER CUTE! I found a tutorial here for the bunny.
I wanted the technique to be embossing this month. I knew I needed to keep it simple. I LOVE how it turned out. My club members will be able to choose from different greetings to fit their needs. I can't wait to share one of my favorite techniques with my club members!

Buttah's Play Room

2010-04-18T20:11:00.003-06:00

We turned the bedroom downstairs into a playroom for our son. I am excited to have the majority of his toys in one room. One wall has numbers 1-10, the next wall has the alphabet, and a third wall has shapes. All are vinyl, so they will come off without effort when we move. He has his fort, a craft/coloring table, a car mat, and his toy box. I also have the TV set up so we can watch kids movies. I still need to make a curtain for the window and a curtain for the closet. We don't have a door on it and I will be putting a gate up to keep him out of the closet and I want to hide the gate with a curtain. I hope we get lots of use out of it before we move.

Stampin' Up Color Renovation

2010-04-08T10:25:00.006-06:00

Stampin' Up has decided to change the core colors to meet with current market trends. Here’s a break down of what you will find in the new color families.

4 new color family names: Brights Collection, Neutrals Collection, Regals Colletion, and Subtles Collection
5 new colors: Marina Mist, Daffodil Delight, Cherry Cobbler, Cajun Craze and Early Espresso
7 returning in-colors: Baja Breeze, Pink Pirouette, Riding Hood Red, River Rock, Tangerine Tango and Wild Wasabi
3 current in-colors: Rich Razzleberry, Melon Mambo, Soft Suede
25 returning current colors

For a total of 40 standard colors.
So are you ready for the next news?

Next year we will have 5 new in-colors which will last for 2 years. Each year we will continue to have 5 new in-colors to play with. So in 2011 we will have 10 In-Colors at a time. I love the In-Colors and I’m so excited that will be around for 2 years now.

YES that also means some of our current colors will be going away. I’m excited to let you know now so that you will have time to stock up on these colors before they are gone. They will retire at the end of June. Keep in mind that anything using these colors such as paper, products and accessories will also retire so stock up on your favorites now before it’s to late.

Now is a GREAT time to have a party and earn some of these colors before it’s too late.

Rebecca's Workshop

2010-03-31T08:26:00.002-06:00

Rebecca held an in home Workshop for me yesterday. It was success! I am glad that she was willing to let me come share my love of stamping with her friends and family. She did well and earned a lot of free product! YAY for workshops and Stampin' Up!

In Color Notepads

2010-03-28T11:33:00.002-06:00

I made these as door prizes for Rebecca's party. They are made with this year's "in colors" along with old olive. I think they turned out super cute!

Stamp-A-Stack

2010-03-27T21:08:00.005-06:00

I love to give away cards and make them myself, but sometimes I run out of time and energy to create a new card with each birthday or other occasion. This is why I LOVE stamp-a-stacks. I don't feel guilty giving my cards away because I know that I have enough so that I can keep one as sample.

Card #1

Card #2

Card #3

The way a Stamp-A-Stack works is you sign up to make the card you want. You will make 10 of that card. If you want to make all 3 cards you can. The cost is $10 for the first stack, $8 for the second stack, and $6 for the third stack. All stacks come with all the supplies needed to make the cards and envelopes to fit the cards.

This Stamp-A-Stack will be held on Saturday, May 1st, 2010 from 10 am to 2 pm. It is an open house, but please allow yourself about 2 hours if you plan on making all three stacks. Please bring your own adhesive with you as well.

I you are interested, please leave me a comment letting me know what cards and how many stacks. I will reserve a place for you. Also, in your comment let me know how to reach you. Space is limited!

Clock Revamp

2010-03-22T20:42:00.003-06:00

I have a picture wall in my front room. The pictures are all in black or silver frames. I am a clock junky and must know what it it is at all times. I bought a bunch a really cheap clocks at Ikea and they are hanging all over my house. The clock stuck out like a sore thumb on my picture wall. Last night I had finally had enough, so I did something about it. I spray painted the blue clock black. I used some gray ink to color in behind the numbers. Then, I made the circle center with some black cardstock and embossed it with one of my favorite stamp sets "circle circus" in silver. It looks great on my wall now! Super cheap, easy, and CUTE!

Our first club project

2010-03-22T20:19:00.001-06:00

Here it is! Our first club project. The technique we are focusing on is marker use! Hope you all like it as much as I do!

Julia's First Year 6 x 6 Scrapbook

2010-03-14T09:15:00.003-06:00

My niece is turning 1 on the 30th. For her first birthday I wanted to make a personal gift. I thought it would be fun to have a scrapbook of "firsts." I tried to make the pages generic enough that they could work for multiple milestones. I really hope that my niece's family likes it! I guess we'll find out at her party next week.

I used the Sweet Pea paper pack so that the entire scrapbook coordinated. I also enjoyed using some of my retired sets--especially the alphabets. It is the first 6 x 6 book I have made. Each page will hold a 4 x 4 picture. That is the only thing that I don't like about the 6 x 6--a 4 x 6 photo doesn't really fit.

Spring has Sprung

2010-03-11T20:53:00.003-07:00

This is the layout for my first club night. I used the Sweet Pea designer series paper from the occasions mini catalog. I LOVE the color combo!

Little Flowers

2010-03-10T21:57:00.003-07:00

Stamp Sets:
Little Flowers, Sprinkles, Short and Sweet

Card Stock:
Old Olive, Rich Razzleberry, Whisper White

Accessories:
Old Olive 1/4 inch grosgrain ribbon, stampin' dimensionals

My Stampin' Story

2010-03-09T11:27:00.000-07:00

I have always been the “crafty” type. I worked in a craft store during high school. I worked in a picture framing shop through college. I loved to create and showcase my work. I was always told I have a real eye for color. My favorite part of framing was helping others to make the most of their art within a budget.

My last year of college, I had to quit the craft and framing business to focus on my upcoming career of teaching. After that I focused on teaching math to kids. I loved my job, but there was a void in my life. A friend at work was a Stampin’ Up demonstrator. She invited me to come check out her stampin’ technique card club. From the first club meeting I was hooked! I loved the premise of a club—the ability to learn new tricks and slowly build my stamping supply without breaking the bank.

After about a year in club, I decided it was time for me to branch out and become a demonstrator myself. I held my first open house and have never looked back! I love meeting new people and sharing my love of Stampin’ Up with everyone I meet!

Since joining Stampin’ Up, I finally had my creative outlet back. Before I got involved with Stampin’ Up I didn’t realize the void that was missing in my life. Now I feel like my life is well rounded. My husband has even commented that I’m the happiest I’ve been since we have been married. I look forward to many, many years as a Stampin’ Up demonstrator to compliment my career as an educator. I love the opportunity to take care of my family and make a little money to support my hobby on the side.

The best part is that you can make it work for you. If you want to get the starter kit and get $364+ worth of supplies for only $199…you can! If you want to just enjoy the discount, you can! If you want to get a little extra income, you can! And if you want it to be more, you can! It is all about what you want.

I LOVE it, and if you do too…this is something you should consider. It has changed my life and it can do the same for you!

Happy Stamping!
Lynsey

Open House

2010-03-07T11:57:00.003-07:00

My open house was a success. I had a wonderful time visiting with everyone that came. I still have 5 openings for my club that starts at the end of the month--let me know if you want to join!

Open House Information

2010-03-04T19:00:00.004-07:00

*click on picture to enlarge

I am also offering one day only specials at the open house. Details are on the picture below. Click to enlarge.

New punches

2010-02-19T21:35:00.001-07:00

I got two new punches today out of the Stampin' Up occasions catalog and had to use them. I love the new flower punch and how it went well with the large flower from the "Eastern Blooms" set. I really like the girliness of the new scallop edge.

Open House Make-and-Take Cards

2010-02-19T20:42:00.002-07:00

Here are the sample cards for my open house. I hope people like them and have fun making them!

working on open house ideas,,,

2010-02-18T20:00:00.002-07:00

I wanted a nice simple card for my make and take for my upcoming open house. I also wanted to use my stampin' pastels. I don't like this card. Oh well, I'll keep trying...

I liked the candle card I made the other day, so I revisited it. I changed the colors and made it a bit bigger. I think I like the red/yellow color combo better. This card just doesn't do much for me--go figure. It is also too complicated for a make and take anyway. I have such a hard time coming up with simple cards.

Design Series Paper usage

2010-02-16T22:05:00.002-07:00

I had some design series paper left over from my Christmas projects that I wanted to use up. Most is obviously Christmas, but I figured if I got creative, it would work as non-Christmas paper too. I only have 2.5 inch wide strips to work with, so placement has been a bit tricky. I also wanted to use the new border punch that is in the Sale-a-bration catalog. I really like the look it gives. I need to get one of my own. I am happy to say that I feel much more confident when stamping and creating cards. Now I just need to get better at sending them :D

This card didn't turn out as cute as I had hoped it would. It is a 3x3 card and would have worked much better if it had been bigger so that you could see more of the candles. I may revisit this design in the future.

Instead of being out with friends...

2010-02-12T20:56:00.004-07:00

I stayed home and created these cards. It's Friday night and my husband is at work. My kid is asleep. My friends are together having a scrap-a-thon tonight. I wanted to be there, but didn't have anyone to watch the kiddo for me and didn't want to pay anyone for that matter...

So, I went to work in my craft room. I am getting ready for my open house and wanted to have some samples of cards that I have made. Here is what I came up with tonight using things that are currently found in the Stampin' Up catalog.

Finished with the swap

2010-02-07T16:19:00.003-07:00

Today I buckled down and finished the rest of the 25 cards for my friend. 10 of the cards are variations of the four embossed cards pictured. I am excited for my Scentsy to arrive!

If you join my card club....

2010-02-06T21:30:00.003-07:00

you will receive on of these sets of cards. My open house will be March 6th from 9 am to 4 pm. If you sign up for club that day, you'll get to pick out the set you want. First come, first served.

more swap cards

2010-02-06T21:27:00.002-07:00

Here are 5 more cards I have made for my friend for the swap we are doing. I just love using hearts as flowers.

I {heart} Stampin Up

2010-02-03T09:36:00.002-07:00

I am officially a Stampin'Up demonstrator. If you would like to host a party, please let me know. I'll be happy to come demonstrate for you! If you would like to order something, just let me know.

a swap

2010-02-02T16:44:00.002-07:00

A friend contacted me about making her some cards. She sells Scentsy, so I suggest a swap. I can't wait for my Scentsy to come. So, Sarah, here is a peek at some of the cards I have made for you.

on a roll

2010-01-31T20:09:00.004-07:00

I've been on a card making kick. I loved the cupcake birthday card I made with a friend last night, so I had to make on of my own to add to my collection.

Each month at stamp club we do an exchange. We are supposed to make something with the supplies we order the previous month. I am in love with the new set, so I've had fun creating with it. I took my original idea and tweaked it a bit.

Birthday and Baby cards

2010-01-31T00:05:00.003-07:00

Tonight my friend Rebecca came over with her husband and son. Once my little one went to bed, the big boys were playing video games, then it was "girl time." We decided to stamp. She came to my Stampin' Up party a few months ago and wanted to get better at using her products. For Christmas she made her family calendars that included all birthdays. Her goal is to send birthday cards to all the people on her calendar. Also, her sister just had a baby and she wanted to send her a card. So, our goal was to create a baby card and some birthday cards. I really liked the end result!

Baby card. The baby's nursery is done in Noah's Arc theme, so we wanted animals in twos on the card. The inside has some animals in it too!

I am particularly proud of this card. I have such a hard time with masculine cards, but with this one, I think I hit the nail on the head :D

I LOVE this card. The greeting on the inside says, "celebrate one cupcake at a time." It took a long time to color all the cupcakes, but it was well worth the effort!

with all my heart thank you card

2010-01-25T20:16:00.002-07:00

Today I got the "With All My Heart" stamp set from Stampin' Up, so I had to give it a try. I'm not really good with "girly" but I gave it my best shot. The card needs something..., but I like it still. I used very vanilla, rose red, pretty in pink, and chocolate chip paper. I just love how easy it is to combine SU products!

Coat Hanger

2010-01-23T15:50:00.003-07:00

I made this coat hanger board because I was getting sick of looking all over the house for my purse. Now it has a place to hang!

I started with a random 1x10 that I had leftover from a different project. I spray painted it flat black (I wish it had been satin, but I was using materials I already had on hand). Then I attached the hooks that I bought a couple of years ago at Target for $2.50. Next, I pulled out the cricut and cut they vinyl.

I hung it on the wall under the grouping of wedding photos that is by the front door. I love how it turned out and it was so, so easy and cheap!

other Believe blocks

2010-01-17T21:51:00.002-07:00

I made 15 of theses. The other 14 were on red blocks, but I forgot to take pictures before I gave them away. It was a fun, cheap Christmas gift. I hope everyone that received them enjoyed them.

Believe Blocks

2009-12-31T20:46:00.002-07:00

I made 10 sets of these blocks. I LOVE the way they turned out. I hope that everyone who received a set likes them too.

P.S. Ignore the DVDs in the background. My block set happens to sit in front of my DVDs and I didn't want to move them just to get a picture since they are being pack up tomorrow.

Don't want to spoil the surprise

2009-12-11T12:02:00.003-07:00

I've been madly working on my Christmas presents. I'm working on projects every night, but won't post pictures because the people who read this blog most are the people who will be receiving the projects as gifts. Wish me luck meeting the Christmas deadline! I hope to make it.... Next year, I'm doing my Christmas gifts in JULY!

Merry Christmas Frame

2009-12-06T12:50:00.002-07:00

Not a great picture, but I LOVE how this frame turned out. I used my CriCut and some vinyl. It works perfect for the FREE picture that I got from Sears. So, so cute. I will hang it next year too!

Christmas Trees

2009-11-29T18:05:00.003-07:00

My trees for this Christmas. I love the non-traditional colors. My husband even tolerates the pink. Now I just need to get stockings that match.

It is FINISHED!

2009-11-16T21:51:00.004-07:00

Inside and outside views. I love it! I hope my little one loves it too. I guess we'll find out Christmas morning!

Trendy Trees

2009-11-14T22:24:00.001-07:00

First Fort Pics

2009-11-10T17:16:00.003-07:00

I don't have pics of the front, but here are the sides and back. I have also finished the windows int the inside lining. I put some mesh in the windows to prevent my son from climbing through the windows.

Fort Update

2009-11-08T16:33:00.002-07:00

I have cut out the inside, outside, and top of the cardtable for that I'm making for my son. I also cut out the two trees that will be sewn to the outside. I made patterns for the campfire and now I need to get them cut out and sewn on. I'll take pictures when I have a chance...

Want

2009-10-26T21:39:00.004-06:00

http://sewmuchado.blogspot.com/2009/02/card-table-playhouse-tutorialette.html

I want to make one. I plan to. I even purchased fabric today. Now I just need time!

*****I have designed the one for my son. The front will have a sign saying "hide out" and a slot for secret messages. One side will have a campfire. One side will have a pine tree with pine cones. The back will have an secret escape hatch hidden behind a tree. I can't wait to get started!

Need ideas on childproofing

2009-10-18T17:40:00.002-06:00

My son LOVES to empty the bookshelves. He can only reach the bottom two shelves right now. I have moved things that I don't care if he plays with to the bottom shelves, but I'm tired of picking up endless dvd piles. Any ideas on child proofing the bottom two shelves? I want it to look good and still allow me to access the shelves. Help!

Classroom pet

2009-10-09T20:26:00.002-06:00

The fish, named Pythagoras, now lives on the filing cabinet in the back of my classroom. He will be an ongoing project--I have to keep him alive. I'm excited to have a classroom pet and my students think that he is pretty cool. I love the fact that I found an ORANGE betta. I have never seen on that vivid of an orange.

Halloween Table Runner

2009-10-03T17:05:00.001-06:00

I made this Halloween table runner yesterday. It is the first table runner I have ever made, so I had no clue what I was doing. I think it turned out well all things considered. And it only took me an hour from start to finish! Now I just need to go pick more pumpkins from my garden to decorate with!

Fun at the Fair

2009-10-03T17:01:00.002-06:00

Mini Sesame Street Cards

2009-10-02T16:56:00.003-06:00

At card club a few months ago we made these darling Sesame Street cards.

I love them so much that I decided to see if I could make them in mini form. I love the way the mini cards turned out. I was able to use punches that I had on hand. When I showed them to my husband, he even knew who they were supposed to be! Thanks Jen for the original card idea!

I Love You card

2009-09-27T08:46:00.002-06:00

My sister is going through a really tough time right now, so I decided to send her a card letting her now that I love her and that I'm there for her. I made two versions. Which do you like better?

Thinking of You cards

2009-09-14T18:00:00.002-06:00

I needed to send cards to my family so that I could send them the latest pictures of my son. I needed to send a 5 x 7 picture, so needed a large card. The bottom card measures 5 1/2 x 7 1/4. It is my favorite of the three. I really enjoyed spending some time making cards. I've been super busy with work.

I heart spray paint

2009-08-28T18:04:00.002-06:00

I went a bit crazy with the spray paint in my classroom. I painted my personal calculators lime green and my classroom set school bus yellow. I also painted up some hall passes because the hall pass that the school provides tends to wonder out of my classroom to never return.

Magnets For School

2009-08-22T10:35:00.003-06:00

I made these magnets and magnetic frames for my filing cabinets at school. It will help me get through my days without my little man.

Scrapbook catch-up

2009-08-13T17:44:00.003-06:00

A couple of weeks ago I went to Sam's Club and had 115 pictures printed that needed to be scrapbooked. What a job! I created a total of 23 pages. My camera is M.I.A., so when I get it back, I'll add some pictures.

****I didn't want to take the pages out of the scrapbook, so sorry for the poor images.

New look for an old shelf

2009-08-05T17:04:00.003-06:00

Before

After

I found this shelf at a thrift store about 2.5 years ago. It was navy blue and it was missing a post. I finally got around to buying replacement posts. I glued the posts in place and then grabbed my black satin finish spray paint and went to work. I LOVE the way it turned out. It goes so well with my black furniture and black couch in my living room. It hangs right by the front door. It will be nice to have a place to hang keys and bag that I need when running out the door so I don't forget anything.

1st Birthday Invitations

2009-08-01T17:15:00.003-06:00

This is the invitation that I made for my son's 1st birthday. I can't believe that he is growing up so fast. The insert has the details for the party. I like how they turned out. I had a hard time getting the button to stay on and I had to break out the glue gun to get it to stay. I'm happy to report that it didn't cost any extra to sent it through the mail even with the button.

Rotating calendar

2009-07-27T18:39:00.007-06:00

I have had this rotating calendar for years and I love it! It makes it easy for me to keep track to appointments and such. My mother in law has wanted one since she saw mine.

Well, I figured out how to make one!
I used Microsoft Word to make a week calendar. Then I made 3 more just like it. I printed it out onto white cardstock. Then I backed it with blue. Each week measures 3x10.5 inches. I then took my weeks to Office Max to get laminated with their super thick lamination. I cut out the weeks and attached them to sheets of magnets (after weeks of searching for sheets of magnets big enough I finally found some at Hobby Lobby). I made one for my mother in law too. I'm going to use mine to help plan menus!

**I may take a few days off from this blog so that I can catch up on my son's scrapbook. I had 115 pictures printed today that are supposed to go in the scrapbook...wish me luck!

German Pancakes

2009-07-20T18:49:00.004-06:00

German Pancakes
1 cup flour
1 cup milk
1 tsp salt
6 eggs

Heat oven to 400. Place 6 Tbsp of butter into a 9x13 pan and place into oven to melt. Blend flour, milk, salt, and eggs in the blender. Pour into 9x13 pan over melted butter. Bake for 25 minutes. Serve with syrup, jam, honey, powdered sugar, etc. Enjoy!

My baby has a big head!

2009-07-17T16:33:00.003-06:00

I needed a hat for my son so we could go camping in the Unitas. I put one of my hats on his head and discovered that his head is almost as big as mine. I used mine as a pattern and just shrunk it a tiny bit. I don't know if he'll keep it on, but at least he has one!

Good use of scraps...

2009-07-17T16:24:00.002-06:00

After making all the cards for the reunion I had a huge pile of scraps. I decided to make mini cards (3x3). I just cut everything to the size I needed. Then, I watermarked all the backgrounds with a variety of stamp sets. I love the little flower on each card...I think it adds a nice touch. The birthday card was made from scraps, but it was planned out more than the other cards. I'm selling the cards at the reunion for 50 cents each or 3 for $1. What do you think?

Even more cards for the reunion

2009-07-17T16:18:00.004-06:00

These tags are for my mother-in-law. She is making candies and other sweets to sell at the reunion. I though that her goodies would look good with a little tag on top. I whipped out my CriCut and found the the oval fit my stamp perfectly!

I LOVE this card! I think that it turned out great. I love the contrasting orange ribbon around it.

Birtday Card for reunion

2009-07-14T16:53:00.002-06:00

For the Family Reunion

2009-07-13T11:19:00.004-06:00

My mother-in-law's family is in charge of the family reunion this year. The theme is "Country." They are having an old fashioned country store to sell things to raise money for family history research. We have all been asked to make things to put in the store. I decided to make a variety of cards to sell. These are a few that I've made so far...I've really been enjoying being creative. Now the question is--how much should I charge per card?(Thanks Jen for the inspiration on this card!)

Safety first

2009-07-13T11:11:00.003-06:00

My son's changing table has been in the family for over 20 years. It has been handed down from sibling to sibling. It has been recovered many times! Unfortunately it didn't have any rails to prevent the kid from rolling off. The first time my son rolled I caught him before he hit the floor, but the second time I missed. At that point I decided that I HAD TO come up with some way to prevent falls due to rolling. I got a board and had it cut to length. I covered it with batting, fabric, and vinyl. I attached it to the front of the changing table using L brackets. It isn't pretty, but it is doing the job!

BEFORE

AFTER

Mega Easy Chicken Pot Pie

2009-07-08T19:58:00.002-06:00

This is one of my husband's all time favorite recipes. It's not pretty to look at, but it sure is yummy to eat.

Mega Easy Chicken Pot Pie
1-2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
2 cans Veg-All mixed vegetables (drained)
2 cans cream of chicken soup
1 cup self rising flour
1 cup milk
1 stick/cube butter (melted)

Cut chicken into bite sized pieces and cook. You can also use a can or two of canned chicken. Place cooked chicken on bottom of 9X13 pan. Pour in vegetables and cream of chicken soup. Mix together. Mix together flour, milk, and butter in a separate bowl. Pour over chicken mixture. Bake at 350 for 35 to 40 minutes or until the crust is light golden brown.

Functional

2009-07-08T17:22:00.002-06:00

Today I worked hard and my craft room is functional. It still needs a lot of work, but now I can get to work! That means that tomorrow I'm not unpacking anything and I'm spending the day working on some projects!

Taking a break

2009-06-22T17:01:00.001-06:00

no more projects for me for a few weeks. I am spending this week packing to move and then I'll be spending next week unpacking. Today I packed my craft stuff so that I wouldn't be tempted to "take a break" and do a project.

Recycled Business Card Magnets

2009-06-19T10:39:00.006-06:00

I live in an apartment and it seems that Realtors like to pay visits to my complex often. Sometimes they leave their magnetic business card. I already have my Realtor when the time comes, so I pull off the card and throw the magnet on my fridge. I had a collection of six and I knew just what I wanted to do with them.

When I had photos taken of my son, I have received the "mini" photos (1.25 by 1.5 inch). They are so small and pretty much useless...until now!

I learned this techinique at my stamp club a few months back.

First, clear your magnet of any business cards (if possible).

Next measure your magnet and cut a piece of cardstock to match. I used a 1 inch square punch to cut a window for my picture. Then, stamp the card with the images of your choice.

Next, cover your entire card with Versamark (or whatever embossing pad you have). Then, cover with clear embossing powder. Then take a bone folder thingy and scrap off some if the powder making a cool design (I tried to make it look like grass). Then heat until the embossing powder has set.

Add your picture behind the cardstock. Use your favorite adhesive to stick the finished cardstock with image to your magnet. Enjoy from there!

I got carried away and made several. I'll keep one, but the rest will be going to family so they can enjoy looking at my little one everytime they get a drink of milk!

1st birthday zoo card

2009-06-15T19:39:00.003-06:00

Stampin Up is ending a catalog, so they had a list of all of their discontinued sets, paper, and stamp pads. A lot of the ones I wanted were on the list, so I got a few. I used them on this card. This card took me more time than I'd like to admit, but my son was asleep and I was having fun. I think it turned out beyond cute and it'll be perfect for the "Zoofari" birthday party for our friends' son this Saturday.

2009-06-15T19:32:00.002-06:00

My husband's aunt was in charge of making the quilt for the raffle for the family reunion coming up in July. She has two embroidery machines, but doesn't know who to write words. I have a Viking Rose machine and LOVE it. I also have a program that allows me to make designs. I went online and found a Mickey Mouse file, but it was too big for my hoop. I did a little editing and was able to just get his head and it fit into the hoop. I added the words to give Aunt Randie credit for her work and now it's ready to go onto the back of her Disney quilt. I can't wait to see the finished project.

Frame

2009-06-15T19:20:00.003-06:00

I need a silver frame for my son's 9 month photo. I couldn't find one I liked, so I found a brown one I liked and spray painted it. The silver was very metallic and bright, so I lightly sprayed it with black to tone it down. I love the finished effect. The pictures aren't good, but I thought I would share anyway.

Finished Animal Split Nine Quilt

2009-06-13T22:17:00.002-06:00

I pulled out the quilt top yesterday and decided that it was time for quilting. While my son was taking his afternoon nap, I laid it out, pinned it, and machine quilted it. SO much fun! My son woke up from his nap and I didn't have a chance to put the binding on until this morning. Then I washed and dried it so it's ready to be put away for the next kid that comes along...my son really doesn't need any more quilts right now! I love the bright colors. I had planned to use the same fabric as the large border to bind the quilt, but didn't have enough so I had to look in my stash for something that would work. The yellow is lighter than any of the other yellows in the quilt, but I think it still looks nice. Now I get to move onto the airplane quilt and then the train quilt for my husband!

I love Mod Podge!

2009-06-13T22:07:00.006-06:00

I used to be a Mod Podge junkie and used it for everything. I haven't had it our in awhile, but I got it out recently and keep finding things to use it for.

For my son's first birthday coming up in August, I covered a tin with cute paper and filled it with magnetic letters that I got at the local thrift store. I hope he likes it! I love that he can use the tin to put the magnets on.

I covered a formula can a week or so ago with dog paper so that I have a cute place to store dog treats. I like to keep them on the counter, but I needed a cute container.I have a number of formula cans waiting to be used for projects...any ideas?

Hooded Towel for the pool

2009-06-11T15:32:00.003-06:00

I picked up the beach towel yesterday at Wal-mart. I thought that is was so cute. I had planned on making a hooded towel for my son for the pool, but it was going to be plain. So I added a hood with "dinosaur" spines on it. It has been raining all week and has been a bit cold so we haven't made it to the pool yet...maybe next week!

"Lovies"

2009-06-11T15:23:00.002-06:00

My son loves the minky fabric. He has a small "lovie" already which he holds and rubs on his face as he falls asleep. I wanted to get more of the same fabric as the one he has, but it was twice the cost as the cow print. So, I got a yard of the cow print and was able to make six "lovies." I'll keep one in both cars and one at his Nana and Papa's house. I love that the fabric stays soft no matter how many times it is washed.

New storage space

2009-06-10T21:27:00.003-06:00

I saw this idea a few days ago and I was so excited to try it. My problem was I didn't have any wire shelving. Well, today in a whim, I stopped by the local thrift store. I picked up so toys for my son's first birthday--they need some work so I have three months to work on them. On my way out, I spotted a pile of the wire racks that I wanted! I was so excited! I threw them in my cart and headed home before I found more "treasures" that required some work.

I had my husband stop and pick up some zip ties for me since I was fresh out. I went a bit crazy with them because I like the zipping sound, but my rack shouldn't fall apart! I loaded it up with the stuff that has been piling up in the corner on my craft table. Once we move (at the end of the month) I'll be able to use it for more scrapbooking stuff. I hope to find more racks so I can add to it. I'd love more shelves for paper and another two cubes for storing stamp sets and such on. So, I guess it means more trips to the thrift store for me--woot woot!

It's done!

2009-06-10T21:13:00.003-06:00

I finished America the Beautiful quilt this morning. I figured that since I had machine quilted everything on it that I might as well go ahead and machine bind it as well. I like how it turned out. I washed it and dried it and it didn't pucker too much! Now we just need some fireworks to watch so we can have a nice place to sit!