Ink Me Up - Sketchbook

Happy Birthday .....

2011-09-26T13:20:00.000-05:00

Birthday card that I made for Vicki.

Birthday card I made for Robert and Ted.

Congratulations Joey and Lisa...

2011-08-16T14:32:00.000-05:00

On August 12th, our nephew Joey married Lisa in Southern California. Ted was able to make the quick trip out to see them exchange their vows. Congratulations to them both!

Joey and Lisa

Our niece Tami had the honor of being "best-man". She and her brother are very close and it only seemed appropriate.

Roxanne was beautiful as mother-of-the-groom.

Good luck to all for a long and happy future.

Envelope Memory Box ...

2011-08-15T07:47:00.002-05:00

I recently made this "envelope memory box" as a design team project for the Frantic Stamper. Check out my project and instructions on Frantic Stamper's blog.

This was a really fun and easy accordian/envelope box to make and use. Just perfect for storing photos, journaled tags, small mementos, etc. from a special occasion.

The box can be adapted to so many different themes, uses, sizes, and used for just about any age group or sex. Get creative and make one for yourself.

Hot, Hot, Hot...

2011-08-02T18:07:00.000-05:00

Today was a scorcher here in Louisiana. I saw it get up to 105 which was plenty warm for me!!!! It is suppose to be like this all week. I thought we had been having our summer heat already -- guess I was wrong. At least it isn't quite as humid as it has been.

Temp
102.9°F

6mph

Humidity: 39% Heat Index: 117°F

It is obviously a "stay inside day", yet I still don't feel like doing much of anything. Maybe I should just pour myself a big glass of lemonade... or "unsweet" sweet-tea.

Backlog of Projects ...

2011-07-28T23:43:00.000-05:00

Here are a couple of things I created over the past few months. Just never had the time to post them. Enjoy.

A fold-over gift card holder.

An altered mini composition book. Fun papers, gaffers tape, stamping, embellishments.

Vintage collage birthday card.

Artful Gathering

2011-07-28T08:46:00.004-05:00

I recently attended my annual Art Retreat in Texas. Each year we create a book (among many other things). This years book had a "Botanical" theme.

I was graciously asked to create one the layouts that would be going into everyone's book. The only criteria I was given, was to use a "birdcage".

This is what I created. I was pleased with it. And, I am happy to say that I received many compliments on it at the retreat. Thank you ladies for your kind words. It was wonderful to see each of you take this and "make it your own".

Back to Blogging...

2011-07-24T09:13:00.000-05:00

I know I have said this before. But, it is truly time to revive my blog and post more regularly. A lot has been happening in my world over the past year. Good stuff mainly. It has just kept me busy and pre-occupied. I see the light at the end of the tunnel. My art studio is back to be organized. I feel inspired.

Also, my "Typepad" blog still exists as an archive of old posts. It is still viewable. I was able to get all of my past posts posted here. I will NOT be posting new posts to that blog anymore (I had been double posting for a while).

Happy arting. Happy fluttering.

Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T11:18:00.002-06:00

Happy Valentines Day. A day to share the love in your heart. Hope your day is filled with love, friendship, and joy. Make it a special day for that someone special.

I have to tell a little story about something that happened this weekend. Our little "Buddy" has one toy that he absolutely loves over all the rest. Saturday was a nice day outside and he actually dragged the thing out onto the sun porch and then outside through his little doggy door. Now, this toy is kind of large so I must say that I was impressed he got it through the door.

Ted and I were outside with him and when Ted picked up the toy to throw it out into the grass, Buddy became overwhelmed with excitement. He was so engrossed in the fact someone was going to play with him that he backed up... right into the pool. Oh my gosh! What a surprise to everyone. The poor little guy. He was paddling away. The water had to have been pretty darn cold. Ted leaned down and grabbed his collar so he was out in an instant. We had plenty of beach towels so I immediately wrapped him up in one. He didn't even quiver with a shiver.

I don't know whether Buddy has ever been in a pool before. I was hoping to wait until summer to see how he liked it (and give him life saving lessons). Buddy always checks out the pool and looks in it to see if anything interesting is in there. I have to assume he is also "wondering" what a pool is all about. I have to say... I think he now knows what is in that big cement hole.

Ted had never seen Buddy soaking wet and was surprised how tiny he really is. He is usually all "fluffy" fur.

Thankfully all is well with him.

Valentine 4x4's ...

2011-02-07T17:54:00.001-06:00

Below are two Valentine 4x4's that I did for a little mingle among friends. Hope you like.

Buddy - Holly ...

2010-11-15T22:08:00.001-06:00

Updated -

Sadly, I have to report that just 4 days after we added Buddy to our family, we suddenly lost Holly. She gave us a wonderful 10 years of memories and we will never forget her. She was a sweet, sweet dog. I have to think that Buddy was brought to us for a reason. He has brought us an incredible amount of joy in the 2 1/2 months that we have had him.

--------------

Many of you know "Holly", our sweet dog. She is 12 1/2 years old now and she is still our #1 little love puppy.

I want to introduce you to "Buddy", the newest little addition to our family.

Buddy is a rescue dog from 4 Paws here in Louisiana. Isn't he the cutest little guy!?! He is about 1 1/2 years old and is a "snorkie". If you aren't familiar with that "breed", that is a yorkie and schnauzer mix. He mostly solid black except for a little tan color on his face and paws.

We were not looking to adopt right now but when you meet the right dog, how can you not add them to your family? Buddy came home with us yesterday and got his vet check-up today. He got a clean bill of health but has to go back for his "operation" next week.

So far, the team of "Buddy - Holly" is doing okay. Not any great tension between them. That's a good thing!

Ornament Card ...

2010-11-07T21:37:00.001-06:00

I think this is a simple yet cute card. It looks like it took more effort to make than it really does. Just takes 5 punched circles to make the ornament. This may be my Christmas cards this year!?!?

Sweet Giggle ...

2010-11-01T20:44:00.002-05:00

What a super simple and sweet card this one is!?

I cut a corner from a piece of printed Prima paper and used it for my card front. The flowers were highlighted with a glitter pen and olive colored pearls. A silk bow was placed in her hair. "Giggle" was stamped and layered on punched circles/scallops and attached with pop dots.

I think she is a sweetheart.

Zentangles ...

2010-10-23T19:30:00.002-05:00

Have you heard of, or ever made a zentangle? I recently discovered these and find them not only an interesting art form, but a very relaxing and "zen" like thing to do when I am stressed. Check this out for further insight into them.

Although I have stacks of these little 4x4 pieces of art made, here are four zentangles that I recently sent out in a swap.

Obviously the next two are fall themed. My favorite is the "tree".

Relax and enjoy the "zen" tangles.

Hallowe'en In Wonderland ...

2010-10-17T08:44:00.002-05:00

I recently finished this altered birdhouse using the wonderful "Hallowe'en in Wonderland" paper collection from Graphic45.

For more detailed instructions on how I made this, visit the Frantic Stamper Happenings blog.

Blue Birdie ...

2010-10-15T10:15:00.000-05:00

I dug an old Hero Arts shadow stamp out of my drawer for the background layer on this card. The bird is made from a punched circle with a piece cut off. The tale feathers are an egg shaped punch; wing is 1/2 of an egg shape. Eyeball is a black pearl. I chalked the birds chest for color. The branches are just slices of kraft paper. Bird is mounted on 3D pop dots for dimension.

Magic Potions ...

2010-10-13T20:42:00.003-05:00

I recently created this "Magic Potions" book for a friend. The book is made from a blank paper mache book from Hobby Lobby. I glazed/painted the book and then altered and embellished it with a spider web border, creepy flowers, a muslin bow, and a rhinestone spider.

The inside has a vintage picture of two girls framed with rhinestones. These are two young girls wearing their new witches hats. They are learning all about magic potions. The bats are flying, the chandelier is glowing, the bottles are spilling, and the raven is watching.... "be witchey".

I'm Back!

2010-10-13T20:32:00.002-05:00

I'm back and ready to share art.

I didn't go far. Life started taking up every moment of every day. Something had to give, and sadly my blog suffered. But, I'm back from being overwhelmed and hope to share art with you once again.

4th of July ...

2010-07-04T02:04:00.001-05:00

I don't have any art to share with you today. Instead, I did want to wish our country a happy birthday!!! Wishing all of you a happy and safe holiday.

The artist in me did want to share this vintage postcard image with all of you.

Patriotic Cabinet Cards ...

2010-06-21T17:18:00.001-05:00

I recently joined a swap where we altered three cabinet cards in a "Patriotic" theme. These are the 3 cards that I altered and sent on to their recipients.

"Celebrate America" - with glittering party banner, the Stars and Stripes, and the Declaration of Independence.

Betsy Ross with her Stars and Stripes and copy of the Declaration of Independence. I colored her dress, hair and face with chalk. Stippled the background using chalk inks to give it depth and a vintage feel.

Betsy Ross again, with her sewing label, stitches and trinkets, and the Stars and Stripes. I do think that her hair bow is a bit "micky mousish" though.

Celebrating an early 4th of July!

First Day of Summer...

2010-06-21T17:06:00.001-05:00

I think I made it through spring without posting any photos of any flowers. It's coincidently the first day of summer and I have some colorful flowers to post. It's been about 100' degrees for a week now... and hot humid weather had preceded that. So, my flowers are already overgrowing and showing signs of stress from the heat. Hopefully they will make it through the entire summer. Thank goodness for "drip" systems to keep them watered so I don't have to.

I stopped into a local nursery one day and found this perennial. I had never seen one before. It is a "cat's whiskers". It starts flowering at the bottom of the stalk and slowly progresses to the top. It's a really interesting and delicate looking flower. I hope it comes back again next year since I'll probably never see one at the nursery again.

Years ago I tired of planting tropical hibiscus plants that never flourished or survived the hot summers. I remember when we lived in Illinois we had a perennial hibiscus. I located some here and this is one of them. It is my hibiscus "tree". It is currently 7 feet tall with dinner plate sized hibiscus. Each day it has up about 15-20 new flowers. It's awesome and the hummingbirds love it.

This is the hibiscus that sits next to the pool. It doesn't get as big as the red one, but it is still as pretty. And, I did have to cut a few stalks off when my patio umbrella fell over on top of it and crunched it. I'm lucky to have any of my plant left. :)

Just love the almost florescent colors of these flowers. Most of my flowers in my pots are "annuals" that voluntarily come back each spring (like these did). I don't have to plant new ones which is good, but sometimes unexpected flowers show up in the oddest places.

One of my potted hydrangeas, button flowers (a favorite) and volunteer flowers.

Thanks for viewing some of my flowers with me.

Canvas Tiles ...

2010-05-19T18:02:00.001-05:00

Here is a recent project I did. I made a tag shaped card and created some canvas faced tiles to embellish it with.

Here are the wooden tile embellishments for the front of the card. I basically stamped Tim Holtz images onto the canvas, aged them with ink, and attached the canvas to the tiles.

If you want full instructions on how I created this card or the canvas tiles, check it out here. I will definitely remember to make these again!!!

Shabby Spring Tag ...

2010-05-12T02:41:00.001-05:00

I wanted to share one of my first projects that I created for the Frantic Stamper Blog. I made this Shabby Spring Tag using a handmade a paper bag flower.

Making handmade flowers has become popular lately. I made this flower from an ordinary brown grocery bag. Super easy!

Click here for instructions on how to make this tag and paper bag flower.

Here are a couple of variations I made using the same "recipe" as the paper bag flower.

Have fun!

Great News ...

2010-05-09T18:04:00.001-05:00

I have been so busy in the past few months that along with neglecting my blog and my readers, that I also neglected to share some great news with you.

I am proud to say that back in February I was selected to be on the first Design Team for the Frantic Stamper. I am absolutely thrilled by this. I have loved the Frantic Stamper since I first started stamping. It is one store that I can count on to always have everything I need. And, the customer service is wonderful. If you have never visited her site be sure to check it out.

And, be sure to view the Frantic Stamper blog. The talented Design Team has been posting some wonderful projects.

I'm Back...

2010-05-09T17:01:00.001-05:00

The remodeling is done. I've finished my spring yard clean-up. I'm back from a week at the Gulf. I am feeling rejuvinated and much less stressed out. My artistic muse is returning. Happy news.

Now that I am getting back in the swing of things, let me start off by sharing two cards I made recently. I used the same stamps for both. I believe the birdhouse is by Stampendous and the background is by A Stamp In The Hand. The sentiment is Hero Arts. I directly inked the birdhouse image using Colorbox chalk ink making sure to blend the colors.

The first square card has colored pearls added to the stamped image. The second card was highlighted with a glitter pen. The paper flower is from Tim Holtz's colletion. A carved wooden brad is in the center of the flower.

Isn't Remodeling Fun !?

2010-03-02T16:55:00.001-06:00

Well, I know that I have been missing from my blog lately. I have been missing from my art room too. We have started having some home renovations done and it has been taking up all of my time and energy. The planning stage is fun and exciting. The pick-out/ordering stage gets a bit more stressful. Then comes the demolition. Oh my! What a mess. You have to be able to laugh at this point! Then comes waiting... and waiting... and more waiting.

We are currently living in cluttered madness (and the layers of dust come along with it). We actually started a couple of weeks ago with the demolition and installation of new tile floors in all 3 baths and the laundry room. That was time consuming but went smoothly. Very pleased with the final outcome.

We have an almost completed new storage closet off my back hallway - 6' x 6' plus space under a staircase. we have always had a shortage of closet storage so I am looking forward to using this new space. We are also having some small things done like a new shower door. Each project no matter how big or small, seems to take more time than expected.

In the meantime, we've waited for several weeks for our new granite countertops to be fabricated. Last Wednesday the crew came to remove our old tile countertops so that the new granite could be installed the next day. This is what the kitchen looked like that morning.

This is what it looked like by noon. No countertops, backsplash, stove, sink, etc. But, some new cabinets were added to the open side of our island. Barstools will still go in between them.

There is a missing photo here. It would be the one showing our FINISHED granite counters and new tile backsplash. Unfortunately I don't have one ... yet.

Thursday, they installed our new granite in the kitchen and in all the bathrooms. Everything was going smoothly until the final cleanup of the granite. That is when we noticed the scratches/gouges in the granite in the kitchen. On Friday we were notified that they would be re-fabricating all new countertops...10 more days before removal and installation.

Now, this of course is delaying the new tile backsplash that was suppose to have gone in on Saturday morning. And, the cabinets can't be painted until the "newest" counters arrive. Still no sink, no dishwasher.... but I do have a stove. And, more waiting.

The bathrooms all look like this one. But isn't the new tile floor under all that plastic nice looking!!!

These are the bathrooms we are living with. Actually, we do have bathroom sinks now. But, the cabinets, lighting, mirrors, etc. aren't finished yet. Oh cabinet man... wherefore art thou?

I do get my new light fixtures, new outlets, etc. installed on Thursday. At least that is the plan.

I finally did get into my art room tonight. Felt great to be at a point where I felt like I could actually create something. I am sooo stressed out... it was a pleasant change of pace.

I'll post a couple of cards I made very soon. Thanks to all for being patient with me and my lack of art posts. And, I'll post finished pictures when (and if) all of this construction ever gets finished. :)

Altered Gum Container ...

2010-01-13T17:40:00.001-06:00

This week I altered a plastic gum container. I made it into this handy-dandy magnetic refrigerator pencil holder.

While thumbing through the newest Good Housekeeping magazine (January 2010), I saw this really clever idea. A gum tin made into a refrigerator pencil holder. So simple, but so ingenious.

Like many of you, I have a magnetic grocery list/to-do pad stuck on my refrigerator door. I can never seem to find a pencil or pen when I need to write on it though. I usually have one stashed in a nearby drawer.

I decided I was going to make myself one of these neat pencil holders. Of course I thought....I can make mine better. I am going to make mine a little bit more "artsy". I went through all of my metal tins and couldn't find one shaped like this. I remembered I did have some plastic gum containers that opened on the end. It ended up working just fine. I just cut the plastic lid off and started altering it.

I wrapped the gum container with printed paper. I left the paper about 3/4" long at the bottom. I folded the paper at the bottom like the end of a wrapped gift box. Added a vintage looking label to the front. Aged with a little ink and sandpaper. The neck of this container is tapered, so I added two layers of twill and twine around the neck. A button and paper flower were added to embellish it. I added one round magnet to the back of my container and it is plenty secure when loaded up with a couple of pencils/pens.

Super simple. Super convenient.

Keeping It Simple and Clean ...

2010-01-12T10:00:00.001-06:00

Most of Tim Holtz products are geared to the vintage/aged/shabby/rustic look in art. I love it. But sometimes I just like "clean" and simple art. I found this fun "card" while looking at blogs.

This came from the blog of Shari Carroll - blog post My World. Her blog is very inspirational. I think this is just adorable. It is "clean" and simple. She used one of HeroArts new row house stamps (by the way, I must have it) in the background. She used Tim Holtz's Crackle Paint on a chipboard house. Her crackle paint house came out terrific!

I don't know about any of you... but when I use the crackle paint, it doesn't look as nice as this. Mine is always very chunky looking. With this is mind, I decided to take a slightly different route on my version/interpretation of this beautiful card. First, I chose to make a Valentine's Day card. Secondly, I used a grungeboard heart (harlequin pattern) that I finished off differently then with crackle paint.

My grungeboard heart was finished by inking it up with chalk ink and letting it dry. You could color it with most anything. Then I used versamark ink on the entire front of the heart and dipped it in clear embossing powder. I applied two coats of it. Then I put a sprinkling of holographic embossing powder in the third layer of embossing powder. You could use a fine glitter also. Gives it lots of depth. Also, remember that grungeboard can be cut easily. The heart that was in my set of shapes was too big. I just used my Tonic scissors and easily cut it down to the size I needed.

This is what I ended up with. This goes to show you that you can use Tim Holtz products and not always have to have a shabby/vintage looking finished piece of art.

Christmas Skinny Pages ...

2009-12-06T09:23:00.001-06:00

I am anxiously awaiting the return of my "skinny pages" from a recent swap. We each made skinny pages (3"x6"). They each had to have an alpha letter on it -- spelling out Christmas. Here are the ones I sent in. I will get 9 in return... spelling out Christmas. I will either make them into a small book or a banner.

I love the little birds I created using a circle punch and a small "egg" shaped punch. Super easy. I think I am going to be putting these on my Christmas card this year. The alphabet stamp set I used is from Purple Onion Designs.

25 Days of Christmas ...

2009-12-05T09:22:00.000-06:00

I have a little catching up to do. On December 1st, my "25 Days of Christmas" started. In one of my art groups, 25 of us joined this gift swap. We each made a giftie for each artist. We each were assigned a day (mine is the 15th of December) that our gifts will be opened by everyone else.

I had planned on sharing the gifts I received on a daily basis, but am already a few days behind. I will try to catch up here.

First, I must say what fun it was to open the mailbox over several days and find little surprise packages. I could hear the little jingle bell inside tingling. Such fun! I put all of the wrapped gifts in a Christmas suitcase that I have and they are sitting on my dining room table just waiting to be opened.

1st Day of Christmas - Robin (Yooper) made these beautiful blue button fairies. Just gorgeous. A great addition to the Christmas tree.

2nd Day of Christmas - A beautiful beaded acrylic ribbon necklace. I love the metal bead/finding that she used for the tree. Really nice.

3rd Day of Christmas - Autumn made this adorable wooden heart shaped Santa ornaments. Santa is hiding behind the bow, but he is there watching to see who is naughty and nice.

4th Day of Christmas - Claudia sent out these beautiful foil cards. Inside was an embossed library pocket and lace Christmas ornaments. I'm not sure, but the foil silver card appears to be colored with alcohol ink. Also, clever idea with the libray pocket... embossed in the Cuttblebug.

5th Day of Christmas - Ellen altered these darling (and very useful) mini-composition books. Really wel done. Love it!

I plan to be here each day to update you with all of the little gifties I open. Until tomorrow...

2009-11-20T07:09:00.000-06:00

I am very excited about my latest altered art project. I'm truly getting in the mood for Christmas already. Those that know me, know that this is unusual for me. It seems like my festive mood rarely kicks in this far ahead of the holiday.

I made these altered angels for Glue, Art & Paper Studio. I am really happy with how they turned out. I will proudly display them in my home during the holidays.

I used pearl ivory and gold as my focal colors with a touch of copper and brown for the accents. For many, these colors probably seem very non-traditional for Christmas. I like the earthy feel that the copper and brown accents give these angels.

I started with these wooden dress forms from Glue, Art & Paper Studio. I painted two of them pearl ivory and one in metallic gold. The ivory angels were stamped with a flourish design and Brilliance ink. The Brilliance ink stamped beautifully on the painted wood and gave it a shimmery accent. I left the gold dress form unstamped as the metallic gold paint stood out well on it's own.

Each set of wings are different. The base for easy is a shimmering ivory card stock. I topped them with layers of printed vellum, embossed vellum, and gold skeleton leaves. Each is cut in a different size and shape.

Did you notice that each angel has a rustic bird nest sitting on her shoulders? A gold glittered dove sits on each. I also printed the words "peace, love, and joy" on shimmering ivory card stock and placed them in gold bottle caps. I attached a word to each angel.

I gave each angel a flowing skirt of ribbon. I used about 10 different colors, textures, and widths of ribbon. I doubled the ribbons and draped them to one side of their waists. I left them extra long and draping. I added a wired ribbon bow to each at the waist. Also, beads that I cut from holiday "picks" were glued to the base of each angel.

I hope you have enjoyed my holiday altered angels. The beautifully made wooden dress forms from Glue, Art & Paper Studio certainly made this project easy. They have such nice quality products. This truly is an easy project and can be easily personalized to your style and colors. Give them a try.

Enjoy your holiday season!!!

Altered Christmas Cabinet Cards (and more) ...

2009-11-18T15:42:00.000-06:00

I have to apologize for not posting anything new lately. Not to worry... I have been busy working on many art projects. I just finished a 25 days of Christmas swap, and an altered cabinet card swap. I am currently working on Christmas pages for a tall skinny book swap, a set of wooden angels for Glue, Art & Paper Studio, and trying to fit in general stamping, card making, and taking care of 3 secret sisters. Oh yea, somewhere in there I have been designing this years Christmas cards.

For the altered cabinet card swap, I altered 14 cabinet cards in a Christmas Song theme. Each had to represent the title of a Christmas song. And, it had to include a santa hat on each cabinet card also. I don't want to post all of the altered cards, but here are a few. Does the song title fit?

Do You Hear What I Hear?

Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas

Santa Claus Is Coming To Town

Now, the 25 Days of Christmas swap has been a fun one so far. 25 artists joined, and each of us was to make a small gift. We mailed one of our gifts to each of the other 24 participants. I have been having a blast getting the mail each day with piles of little gift packages arriving each day. Each of us was assigned a day in December that our gift are to be opened on. In the end, we each have a gift to open from a fellow artist on each and every day in December (up to the 25th). How fun is this going to be!?!?! I am really looking forward to December when the unwrapping can begin.

Sorry, but I can't post a picture of the gifts I made yet. I will at a later date. I can show you what they look like in the little gift bags I sewed. This is what the other 24 artists received from me... mine are to be opened on the 15th of December.

Merry Christmas ladies!

I'll be back soon. Hopefully my Christmas Angels will be done. I am very excited about them.

Rain, Rain ...

2009-10-30T11:46:00.000-05:00

... I really wish you'd go away (for now anyway). We are having record rainfall this fall, and to be quite honest with you, I am sick of it. We've had 30" in October alone. Then it was another 12" or so in the last half of September. Yikes... that is a lot of water. It has no where left to drain to. Everything is saturated and backing up. The river is above flood stage. The bayous are full. We've had even more rain today... but nothing like the stormy weather we were warned we were going to have. It is suppose to be sunny this coming week... I sure hope so. I'm tired of clouds and drips. You'd think this was the perfect weather to stay inside and do art. Well, not for me. Makes me restless and unmotivated. Way too early in the season to be trapped inside.

Funny... I don't remember buying waterfront property!?!?!

And, Holly is much better after she scared us this week with her little "emergency" health episode. We are back to having happy tails again.

Who-lloween Cards ...

2009-10-13T04:59:00.000-05:00

Isn't this the cutest stamped image? I just think it is adorable. I got it over the summer but just now had the time to try it out. When I was stamping it, I thought "why not use it for Halloween cards"? I think they ended up making cute holiday cards.

I simply stamped them with black Memories ink and colored them in using the MCP technique. For those that don't know what the MCP technique is - it is Magic Colored Pencil technique. It is coloring with Prismacolor pencils and using Gamsol (I use Sansodor) to blend the colors.

Happy Who-lloween!

Shadow Stamps ...

2009-10-12T04:38:00.000-05:00

I dusted off some of my old shadow stamps (remember those?) and made these cards. They were fun to make once again.

The shadow stamps are by Hero Arts. The inks are Memories shadow inks. The olive branch stamp is by A Stamp In The Hand.

Autumn Time ...

2009-10-11T04:51:00.000-05:00

I was playing in my art room one evening and came up with these Autumn cards. There isn't much stamping (sentiments only - Hero Arts) involved, but the pumpkins were fun to make.

The pumpkins were made using a large oval punch. I punched 3 ovals for each pumpkin. I trimmed each oval smaller than the previous one. I chalked the edges of each layer to add depth. The stacked the layers together with foam tape. The leaves are actually small punched eggs.

This shows the stacked layers of the pumpkin and the chalked edges.

Black Hat Society ...

2009-10-10T16:50:00.000-05:00

I recently hostessed a Halloween Hanglie Danglie Mingle with the theme of the Black Hat Society. All of the art pieces had to include an image of a person and a witches hat. I previously posted the one I mailed out. This is the one I received - "Little Witches Don't Stay Little". Autumn made this for me. She does incredible artwork. I was thrilled to receive this, and have it proudly hanging in my kitchen. Thank you Autumn!!!

Happy Birthday Vicki ...

2009-09-25T05:00:00.000-05:00

My good friend Vicki had a milestone birthday on Monday. Last Saturday evening, her wonderful husband Karl gave her a surprise birthday party. I do think she was surprised in every way. What a fun evening we all had... especially Vicki !!!

This is Vicki with her delicious birthday cake -- look at all those chocolate covered strawberries. Oh my, they were good.

After opening a few gifts, her ultimate birthday surprise arrived. No, it was not a Chippendale dancer. It was better!!! Yes, better.

...It was her brand new RED golf cart. Thanks to Jason for driving it in through the building and startling Vicki to death with the horn blaring. What a perfect entrance.

Needless to say, Vicki was surprised, thrilled and (momentarily) speechless. She and Karl have become an avid golfers over the past couple of years. Vicki already has a "hole in one" to her credit. She loves the game. Karl was able to order this and surprise her with it. She had absolutely no idea she was getting a golf cart. Now she can just drive it from her house to the course for a round of golf... so sweet.

A bit emotional.

Karl did GOOD!!!!

Golfing buddies.

Yes, a hole in one.

Happy Birthday Vicki

...from all of your friends.

Just Some Cards ...

2009-09-24T04:36:00.000-05:00

Just a couple of cards I made one evening.

Two cards made with Hero Arts asian stamps. I think these little girls are so cute. They are colored using the MCP technique (colored pencils and solvent).

These two were made with one of my favorite stamps - the chandelier. I love this stamp and use it for so many occasions. Both use printed background paper. The first is overstamped with flourishes. The second one (shimmery) was embossed with a cb folder.

This card was for my nephew. Just wanted to say "hi" to him.

Be Witchy ...

2009-09-23T16:26:00.000-05:00

Well, another Halloween themed project finished!

I am the hostess of a Halloween mingle in one of my art groups. The theme was "Black Hat Society". We each had to make one "hanglie danglie" (that's a technical term) that had to include an image of a person and a black hat. This is what I came up with.

The base of my "hanglie danglie" is a canvas covered board. I inked it up in shades of orange and red. After stamping the chandelier image, I used some yellow oil pastels to highlight it. The womans image was added to a large puzzle piece and topped with a hand cut witches hat. The potion bottles are 3D laser cut wood bottles from Etsy. I added bling, and some chandelier drops along the bottom edge.

Be witchy all you boys and ghouls ....

Tri Fold Shutter Card ...

2009-09-08T03:21:00.000-05:00

Recently, tri-fold shutter cards have been all the rage. It is a basic scoring/folding technique that is then embellished into a lovely card. It all folds up and can be mailed in an ordinary envelope.

This is my first (and only) attempt at making a tri-fold shutter card. I found it very easy to make.

Folded up and ready for mailing.

This is a better photo of the entire card. Even when stretched out like this, it still stands up. The stamped images are from Oxford Impressions.

Try making one of these if you haven't already. They are a lot of fun, and make a great impact when received.

Paradise ...

2009-09-06T20:20:00.000-05:00

This is a card that I recently sent to a secret sister. I was pleased with the way it came out.

The pineapple stamp is from A Stamp In The Hand and was colored using Marvy and Tombow markers. The background stamp is an image from Stampers Anonymous (I believe). I just thought the images, colors, and printed paper (Basic Grey) fell together well on this card.

Black Hat Society ...

2009-09-06T17:13:00.000-05:00

Halloween isn't that far away. It will be here before you can jump on your broom and fly away. I joined a "Halloween" themed mingle in one of my art groups. We needed to make one piece of Halloween themed art and also send a small supply gift. This is the art piece I made for Annie. It is called the "Black Hat Society".

I used canvas mounted on mat board for the background. I painted it with several colors of acrylic paint. Highlighted areas with oil pastels. I added female images copied from cabinet cards, and dressed them each with a "black hat", bling, and even a touch of blush. The medicine bottles are actual laser cut 3D wood mounted images that I purchased on Etsy. I added a festive hanging banner in the background, complete with a bat. And, of course, I added a jeweled spider to the mix. I love the frame... it is faux vintage, but is black with a bit of rust color exposed. Just perfect for Halloween. I believe the frame is about 14" tall.

Bird Journal ...

2009-08-04T02:23:00.000-05:00

I recently sent off a box of goodies in a secret sister swap. One of the art groups I am in had a "Tall Cool Drink" secret sister swap. We had to include a fun plastic/summer glass in our gift package. We also sent something handmade.

Here are all of my "goodies" wrapped up and ready to be put in their Priority box.

I was secret sister to Diann. Diann enjoys writing in a journal. So, for my handmade gift, I made an altered journal.

I used a nice quality Clairefontaine journal for the base. I used printed paper to cover the journal inside and out. The front has layers which include a stamped paint chip, inked/frayed cloth and a stamped chipboard coaster. I stamped the chipboard piece witha bird from Green Pepper Press (love this set - thank you Michelle I. for the gift). Added a couple of K&Co die cuts, twill tab, flowers, pearls, cloth covered brad, micro beaded mini-calendar, and a leaf stick pin (Maya Road) with beads on it. I also added my usual feature of an attached bookmark. Between the back cover and the back insided liner, I always securely attach a ribbon(with a nice bead on other end). This is a permenant bookmark that can be moved anywhere in the book and never gets lost.Diann... I had a wonderful time filling your box with art goodies. I know that you will create some beautiful art with it. Enjoy!!!

2009-07-20T04:20:00.000-05:00

Most of you have heard of the hot sultry "dog days of summer". Well, where I live we also have the long lazy "frog days of summer". The tree frogs are abundant here and make their presence known by just "hanging around" all day doing absolutely nothing. I feel this way on many hot summer days.

I spend many summer evenings sitting on my porch with a good book or art magazine. I thought it would be fun to make a tray for my sun room which could hold some lightly scented candles (or whatever). Since I love frogs so much, I chose to make it with a "frog" theme.

I started off by painting a shallow wooden tray from Glue Art & Paper Studios in a soft orange. I covered the tray with coordinating frog/poppy themed paper from Creative Imaginations.

I painted game tokens bright orange and added them as feet to the tray. The corners of the tray were embellished with clear buttons that I topped off with punched images from the patterned paper. These clear acrylic buttons really add some luminosity and reflection that this photo just doesn't pick up. I also added the words "dogs days of summer" to the tray, along with a cute 3-D paper frog.

I hope that you enjoyed this project. I really like using products from Glue Art & Paper Studios. I encourage you to check them out. They have a wide range of items... with endless possibilities. And, the quality and service is great.

Happy "frog days of summer"!!!

Fish Tails ...

2009-07-02T01:41:00.000-05:00

I just finished my "fish tails" art piece. I was in a mingle entitled "fish tails". We had to have a fish somewhere on the piece of hanging artwork.

This photo isn't the best, but you can see the basics of my piece. I used a 4"x6" canvas and painted it with a glaze medium and paint. I stenciled some random designs on the background using paint. I gave the background some added texture by randomly applying some distress stickles with a paint brush. I added an image of a vintage fish company label and used oil pastels around it for shading. I glazed over the label. It has almost a crackle finish to it. I embellished the piece with an "F" game piece, some netting, small sea shells, and a wire/ribbon/bead hanger.

Purple ...

2009-07-01T16:25:00.000-05:00

I was in a card mingle recently. The theme was "purple". Purple is not my favorite color so this was a bit of a challenge to me.

I chose an Asian theme. The body of the card was stamped with several stamps -- asian face, ginko leaf, fern, coin, etc. I used black ink and Versamark clear.

I made the lantern by punching out two circles of the same size -- one black and one lavender. I cut an edge off of the lavender circle and repeated it on the opposite side. I did the same to the black circle, but making sure the piece cut off was smaller. After gluing these circles together, I attached some metallic mitzuhiki cord to the back. Embellished the stamped floral image on the lantern with a glimmer pen. Attached to card on pop dots.

Happy Birthday AJ ...

2009-07-01T07:18:00.000-05:00

I made this card for my nephew who is turning 14 in just a few days. Can't believe he is growing up so fast.

I find it hard to make cards for teenagers. I've never had one of my own, so I am never sure of what appeals to them (and at what age).

This is the card I made for AJ's birthday. I cut the guitar from a piece of printed cardstock. Stamped the sentiment. Added "latte" colored pearls to the neck of the guitar. Hope he likes the card. If all else fails, I know he'll like his gifts!

Oh, what a beautiful morning ...

2009-06-30T19:17:00.000-05:00

How beautiful can a morning be? This morning was just gorgeous outside. The air was finally a bit cooler and there was dew in the air. So refreshing. I love morning when it is quiet, still, and everything is fresh and waking up to a new day.

This morning as I was meandering around the yard with my cup of coffee in hand,the flowers just seemed prettier and happier than they have been lately. Maybe it's because the temperature actually fell in to the upper 60's overnight. What a pleasant relief.

Look at this glorious perennial hibiscus. I just love these. When I spotted the dew hanging on the leaves and petals, I had to get my camera. The flowers on this perennial hibiscus are about the size of a dinner plate -- about 10" across.

A newly opened dewey flower on my magnolia trellis.

Two of my other favorites. Mandevilla and a scarlett Mandevilla.

Some pots full of vinca and sweet potato vines, summers snaps, and one of the last hydrangeas.

Now this is a dogs life! My favorite photo of the morning is of my sweet Holly. She loves to sit or lay by the pool and just gaze into it. I think she is hoping to spot the occasional frog or bug. No luck today.

So, how was your morning?

New Technique "Glimmering Tie-Dye" ...

2009-06-12T12:58:00.000-05:00

As far as I know, I have not seen anyone use this method to create a colorful background. I'm calling it "Glimmering Tie-Dye".

This technique came about totally by accident. I was playing around with Tim Holtz's November Technique Challenge. He was once again an inspiration. I started by swiping his distress inks on the teflon sheet. Then I changed over to trying it with Glimmer Mists (Tattered Angels).

At first I experimented with paper. Then I moved to blank coasters, as I was creating a group project that I wanted to use a colorful coaster as the base for. I was getting a nice, colorful result with the absorbant coasters, but it just wasn't exactly what I was looking for. I was trying it by spritzing a total of 5-6 sprays of Glimmer Mists (in 2-3 colors) on the teflon sheet. Then dropping the absorbant coaster into it. The coaster was immediately absorbing all of the glimmer mist. Again, it was nice but not exactly what I had in mind.

On another day, I was revisiting the use of Glimmer Mists and absorbant coasters. This is when my "accident" happened and my new technique was created. I had spritzed my teflon mat with Glimmer Mists (like above) and had placed my coaster into it. When I was done, I used a damp paper towel to clean the Glimmer Mists off my teflon sheet. I wasn't completely done cleaning it when I accidently dropped the coaster I was holding, onto the teflon sheet. At first I didn't even notice the results. But, later I saw these cool looking multi-colored streaks/spots on my beautiful bright white coaster. It looked as though it had been tie-dyed. I realized what I had done and tried to replicate it.

Here is how you do the "Glimmering Tie-Dye" technique.

Spritz your teflon sheet with 3-4 light sprays of water.

Choose 2 or 3 colors of Glimmer Mists, and spritz onto the teflon sheet/water. Hold the Glimmer Mist about 5-6" away from teflon sheet. Try to keep the colors seperated so they don't get muddied up.

Take a clean paper towel and crumple lightly. Spritz the crumpled end of it with a spray of water.

Now for the magic. In a back and forth motion, swipe the Glimmer Mist on the teflon sheet with a light hand. The harder you wipe, the less color and smaller the color spots with be on your finished product. Don't over swipe as your colors with blend to much and get muddied up.

Drop the blank, absorbant coaster into your swiped mixture. Don't move it around. Just pick it straight up. No need to press it or wait. It absorbs the Glimmer Mists immediately. You can repeat the process and apply to the other side of coaster.

I experimented with light, medium, and heavy weight coastes. I prefered using the medium-weight. This technique works fine with all three weights though. If you use the light weight coaster, it tends to dry with a curve/bend. I suggest making sure you apply color to both sides or at least spray the backside with water so that there is less change of the coaster drying with a curve. You can also lay a "dry" coastr under something heavy to help flatten it. With the medium and heavy weight coasters, I didn't get any warping/curving.

The light weight coasters are easy to cut in the die cut machines. A fun variation on this technique.

Also, light and medium weight coasters can be run through the Cuttlebug with embossing folders. Another fun variation.

Update on me ...

2009-06-12T02:40:00.000-05:00

Well, I have been one busy little beaver this past month or so. In addition to normal daily life... I have been "playing" in my yard vigorously; made a trip to Dallas for a long weekend of "arting"; had a "milestone" birthday; and had a wedding anniversary.

I won't say the age that I turned recently, but I think by the color of the big balloon, you can guess.

I thought we were going out to dinner to celebrate my birthday with just one other couple. It ended up that there were 5 other couples waiting for us at the restaurant for a surprise celebration. How exciting!!! I can't even begin to tell you how surpised and thrilled I was. I can't remember ever having a surprise celebration with friends before. Afterwards, we all went back to a friends house, where I found it decorated with ballons and other goodies. Thanks to all of my friends, and especially Mike and Sany, for the wonderful day. It was special and meant the world to me!

My brother and sister-in-law surprised me with some beautiful flowers on my birthday. I love flowers. What could be better than that, except that they were in shades of orange. These were so unique. I love the Gerbera Daisys and the roses... but does anyone know what type of greenery was used in this? Or, what are the ruffly flowers on the left side of the arrangement?

My husband gave me what I had asked for. I had wanted a DS game. I finally have one of my own. I don't have to wait to use his. I found this to be a great remedy for insomnia. Seems to put me to sleep like a boring book does. lol.

Anyway, thank you to everyone who helped to make my "milestone" birthday a special one. It was indeed special.

Coaster Calendar ...

2009-05-26T02:24:00.000-05:00

I made this cute little calendar using two medium weight chipboard coasters. The background coloring on the coaster is a fun technique that I recently created and will explain late in another post. Hint... it is made using Glimmer Mists.

I cut a slit and made a fold in the back coaster to create a "stand" for the calendar. The two coasters were glue together and left to dry flat under a heavy book.

Embellished with ribbon and a 3D butterfly from K & Company (I believe). The butterfly was enhanced with extra bling and glitter pen.

Mother's Day ...

2009-05-20T15:34:00.000-05:00

Mother's Day is still a very special day for me, even though it is now full of remembrances and happy memories for me. This is a day I still celebrate my mom, but also miss her terribly.

I can wish my mother-in-law a happy mother's day though. She is an exceptional woman. This is the card that I made her this year.

I stamped this image twice and colored both with prisma color pencils and blended using the MCP technique. I cut out the two flowers and vase from one of the colored images. I adhered them to the base image to give the card dimension.

Hopefully these photos show the dimension and interest you can get by simply adding a second layer.

Quilties ...

2009-05-20T03:33:00.000-05:00

One of my art groups recently had a "quiltie" mingle. We all made "quilties" - aka altered fabric squares. These were a lot of fun and definitely something I had never made before. I signed up twice and these are the two squares I sent off. Each finished quiltie was approximately 6" square and mine were totally hand stitched.

The first one I made is obviously a spring flower. The flower is premade (not sure of manufacturer). I added wool felt leaves. Stitched down some fluffy fibers and beads to make the stem. Added buttons as more flowers, and beads to the sparkling sky.

My second quiltie is for the birds. I used two coordinating fabrics. Added wool felt leaves. Stitched on a real wood twig and embellished with glass beads. A rusted birdhouse sits at the top of the branch. Square is embellished with glass leaf shaped beads.

Had a lot of fun making these!

Quick Cards ...

2009-05-06T11:59:00.000-05:00

Just a few simple little cards I made a few nights ago.

The background paper is from Memory Box, as is the cute little squirrel and sentiment. This photo is not very good, and doesn't show the nicely colored squirrel very well. I used colored pencils and blender. It is on pop dots.

I really like these asian girl stamps from Hero Arts. They are sweet. This girl is colored using Tria markers. A very basic card.

This card uses the same stamped image. She was colored with colored pencils and blender.

Sorry about the poor photos. They don't do any of these cards much justice.

Altered Spoons ...

2009-05-05T18:59:00.000-05:00

I actually had to dust my blog off so that I could make a post tonight!? It has been awhile since I have added anything to my blog, but here is a project I recently did.

One of my online groups had an Altered Spoon swap. We each had to alter 2 spoons any way we wanted.

Using a vintage spoon, I added wire and beads up the handle. I added a silver "dream" tag and glass leaf among the beads. In the cup of the spoon, I added moss and a half of a wooden egg that I painted to look like a birds egg. I also used Sharpie markers to add just a little color to the floral design at the end of the spoons handle. I made a wire loop on the back so the spoon can be hung.

The second vintage spoon that I altered had a "sea" theme. I used copper wire at the top of the handles and wired on beads and small shells. At the lower end of the handle, I wired on beads using silver wire. I hung a wired and beaded chandelier crystal in front of the spoons cup. The cup is filled with sea colored micro beads, small sea blue beads, and another shell.

I have altered a lot of items, but never any spoons. This was a lot of fun to do. If you have some old spoons laying around... alter them.

Signs of Spring ...

2009-04-11T02:22:00.000-05:00

I decided to dust off some stamps I hadn't used in awhile. Remember all of the Hero Arts flowers from a few years back? Well, here are some current cards I made using a few of them.

I apply ColorBox chalk inks directly to the stamps to get this effect (cats eyes are easiest to use for this). I use several colors on each flower and stem.

Top cards uses Memory Box paper for background. Added ribbons and felt flowers.

Easter

2009-04-10T02:19:00.000-05:00

I know that I have been "missing" from my blog recently. I guess life has overwhelmed me in some other ways recently.

A couple of cards for Easter...

This is one of my favorite Easter stamps. I love these little bunnies. I colored this card with Tria markers (alcohol ink markers - similar to Copic). Background paper is Basic Grey; tiny crocheted flower.

I am really liking this Easter card. It is for someone a bit younger than myself. I love the intensity of the colors. Background paper is from Memory Box; felt flowers and ribbon.

Happy Easter

Every Buggie ...

2009-03-17T12:33:00.000-05:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day to everyone!

Just a couple of quick mini cards. I think this is a cute pair of stamps. I believe that they are from Inky Antics. It is true... every buggie needs some buggie!

Altered Wand ...

2009-03-06T01:35:00.000-06:00

Okay... I'm back. And, I have a fun project to share.

One of my online art groups recently had an "altered wand" swap. We needed to make just one wand with a theme of our choice. And, it had to have lots of hanging fibers and trinkets.

When I set out to design mine, I knew I wanted to make a "bird" or "nature" themed wand. When I found the cute little wire birdcage, I knew exactly what my wand was going to be!!! It came complete with a birdie, nest and eggs.

Here it is....

All of the fibers and trinkets hanging from the wand. What fun to collect and assemble. I wrapped the handle of the wand with a variety of wire and beads.

I even made a bird egg for the base of my wand.

Hope you enjoy... spring is in the air.

Where does time go? ...

2009-03-01T16:17:00.000-06:00

It has been quite a while since I've posted. I can't really say why I haven't posted. But, I do have a couple of projects to post asap. Just wanted you to know I have not forgotten about my blog!!!

Pocket Cards ...

2009-02-13T03:31:00.000-06:00

I have made these before, and have probably posted samples on my blog before too. I like to make cards that are different from a basic folded card. This can be made using a library pocket as the base to hold the tag, or just from a cut up manila folder (like here).

I used Memory Box papers on the tag and pocket. Sentiments are from Hero Arts and Purple Onion Designs. A flourish design was stamped on the front and back of tag. I embellished it with small stick on hearts, ribbons, and a glitter pen.

Valentine Cupid

2009-02-12T15:30:00.000-06:00

I made this special Valentine for a secret sister of mine. She like "cupids", so I aged and distressed a copy of a vintage postcard. Added crocheted lace and ribbon. The sentiment is from POD.

2009-02-11T13:14:00.000-06:00

There isn't a whole lot of stamping on these two cards, but I did punch out hearts from "paint chips". You know, the samples you can get at the hardware/paint stores.

The first card is on a Hero Arts card base. Has pastel polka dots on it. I coordinated all of my layers with those polka dots.

The second card uses a pre-edged white card base. A vintage floral designed paper is behind the heart punch outs.

Both are embellished with ribbon scraps and little paper butterflies.

Hanglie Danglie !?!

2009-02-10T21:27:00.000-06:00

One of my online art groups had a Valentine's Day "hanglie danglie" mingle. The "hanglie danglie" term came to us the first time we made hanging 4x4's. When were at a loss of what to call them and this silly name stuck with us.

In this mingle, each of us made a collage/altered Valentine's Day hanging bingo card. This is what I came up with.

Hanglie Danglie

2009-02-10T15:45:00.001-06:00

One of my online art groups recently had a Valentine's themed "hanglie danglie" mingle. If you are asking what a "hanglie danglie" is, you are probably not alone. If I remember right, when our group made our first hanging 4x4's we didn't know what to call them. Someone called them "hanglie danglies". The silly name has stuck with us.

In our mingle, we each made just one altered/collaged hanging bingo card with a Valentine's Day theme. Here is a full photo of the one that I made and sent to Cher.

2009-01-27T04:14:00.000-06:00

Looking for a fun and unique Valentine's Day project to make? Check out this "LUV-O-DEX". How neat is this new product from Glue Art & Paper Studio?

Look at all of the wonderful items included in this Limited Edition kit:

14 custom LUV-O-DEX cards
mini card file
100+ plain cards
ribbons
embellishments

What a clever and fun-filled kit. And, what a great deal. I just "LUV" this !

It is definitely a one-of-a-kind kit. Such a value in my opinion. I love the products from Glue Art and Paper Studio. They make only quality items. I have already ordered mine and can not wait to start working on my special Valentine's day project. I have so many ideas running through my head right now. But, you'll have to wait just a little bit to see my finished project.

Make sure you check back soon to see my finished "LUV-O-DEX".

Hanging Ribbon Storage ...

2009-01-18T14:00:00.000-06:00

I had a brainstorm!!!

I know a lot of you are like me and are always in search of a better way to do/organize things. For a long time I have been searching for the best way to store ribbons. I have tried using ribbon boxes; stored ribbon rolls on a pants hanger (still a top choice); winding ribbon on Cropper Hopper ribbon holders and placing in shallow drawers; hanging ribbon on rings from the same Cropper Hopper ribbon holders and floss holders; and I'm sure some other ways that I just can remember at this point. It has been a frustrating journey.

I have to admire the idea behind the Ribbon Ring. When I saw this product, I took my Cropper Hopper ribbon holders that I had ribbon wrapped around (didn't like the wrinkles the ribbon ended up with) and floss hangers, and punched holes in them and hung them on a ring. I was in effect hanging ribbon from a ring just as the Ribbon Ring was. And, I felt good that I was reusing something I already had.

Well, I didn't completely like this. I liked having the ribbon hanging, but I didn't like using the rings or the Cropper Hopper ribbon holders. The teeth in them was damaging to my ribbon. And, I found the rings annoying. It became a nuisance to me.

(This is a sample of how I was storing ribbon on a hanging ring with the Cropper Hopper ribbon holders and floss spools.)

I seriously considered buying the Ribbon Ring, but it was just too expensive for my budget. I'm not saying that it isn't a great product or that it isn't worth the money. I just couldn't bring myself to pay $40-50 for another ribbon storage system that I wasn't sure I would even like (since the plastic tabs were still stored on rings).

So, one night it came to me. I had a brainstorm!!! I COULD USE "TIE HANGERS". I thought that I would easily hang ribbon on them without the ribbon falling off, and I could hang the tie hangers on my current pants hanger that I have ribbon spools on.

I immediately got on the internet and searched for tie hangers. On EBay, I found a package of 200 black/unmarked tie hangers for $5.00. Yes... I said $5.00. I was willing to try this for this price.

Well, the hangers arrived and I moved all of my loose ribbon to the new tie hangers. I could hang ribbon that was up to 1 5/8" wide (which I don't have very much of). The tie hangers comfortably hold two ribbons (3 narrower ribbons).

I hung all of the tie hangers from the bottom rung of my existing pants hanger. My pants hanger holds approximately 125 of the tie hangers (most of which have at least two ribbons on them). This hanger has always hung on the back of my door. What a space saver.

It is working great. I feel so organized. I have all my ribbons sorted by colors family. I can easily remove the individual ribbon/hanger from the main pants hanger and bring it to my work table. And, most of all... I didn't spend fortune. It is probably the cheapest organizational project I've done in a long time!

I recommend trying this yourself!

New Cards

2009-01-18T13:01:00.000-06:00

Finally, some new cards!

The first two cards are variations of the same card. I am using them as Valentine's Day cards. This chandelier stamp is one of my favorites. I can use it for so many different purposes -- celebrations, love and valentines, Christmas, Halloween, etc.

The white mat (with oval cut out) is a nice ribbed white cardstock.

I also made these two cards... both just a variation of each other. Stamped the flowers on printed papers and cut out. Stamped the flourish image and tore/distressed. Added ribbon/twill, stickles in cinnamon, and pearls.

Happy New Year to you all ...

2008-12-31T02:20:00.000-06:00

With another holiday season coming to a close (they come and go so quickly anymore) I wanted to wish everyone a happy and healthy new year.

We just returned from a few days at the beach - Orange Beach. This is the view from our condo. It was perfect weather on this trip. We just love it there. It is always so hard to come home.

On another note, I just needed to post this picture for one of my online groups. This is what my secret sister (Julie) sent to me. Thank you.

Snowman ...

2008-12-15T04:19:00.000-06:00

Recently, I saw these snowmen posted on Two Peas in a Bucket. They were made by Linda Albrecht. When I saw these, I was absolutely blown away. I thought they were so creative, and so cute.

I found myself thinking about Linda's snowmen a lot. I knew I wanted to try to create one of my own. One in my own style and theme. I went ahead and this is what I ended up with.

My "snowperson" is made from a small bead jar which has a cork stopper and wooden scoop. I had a wooden ball that I used for the head. Just painted it and added pearls (with drawn pupils) for eyes and a red rhinestone nose.

The hat was made from some real wool felt that I had. I sewed the back together to form a cone shape and cinched up the tassel at the top. I covered the cork stopper with a red iridescent pipe cleaner.

I added a striped ribbon around the neck of the jar, and then a sheer ribbon was tied over it for the scarf. Silver foil ribbon spirals were added. Also, I added a clear button to the front.

Like Linda did with her snowmen, I added the pearl beads to the inside of my jar. I used white and black rub ons on the outside of the jar. There are snowflakes all around it, with "joy" in the front.

To personalize my snowman... I used the wooden scoop to form a safe place for my little birdy to live. I took a little piece of green dyed cheesecloth and placed it in the scoop. I perched my tiny little bird on top.

To complete the project... I made my snowman look as though it was actually out in the snow. Around the neck of the bottle, I added glue and glitter. This worked fine, but I found that my Stickles worked just as well... if not better... to make snow. I could make it kind of thick and lumpy in spots. I put snow all around the jar, on the arm, on the wooden scoop and on my snowman's hat. I even gave the tiny bird a bit of snow on it's head and wings.

I want to thank Linda Albrecht for her inspiration. I love my little snowman. I am happy how this project turned out. Maybe I will have to make more, so that my snowman has some friends. The more the merrier.

Christmas Cards ...

2008-12-14T19:16:00.000-06:00

I am actually very proud of myself as I started making my Christmas cards a bit earlier than I normally do. I am completely done and they will be in the mail in the next day or so. It is always a relief to get this done.

I also spent most of my day and evening doing wrapping, wrapping, and more wrapping. Except for gifts to my husband and to local friends, all of the gifts we buy have to be shipped cross country. Needless to say, it is always a relief to see the boxes go on their way. They will be at the post office first thing in the morning... along with all of the others that are being shipped on the Post Office's infamous "Black Monday".

Now, back to this years Christmas cards. A couple of years ago I found a lovely pack of Christmas card "blanks". The blanks came in a box of 50 cards with 10 different designs that were themed together. They worked out perfect for me, especially after getting them 1/2 price at Hobby Lobby. I looked for them last year and only found a set from DCWV that I wasn't thrilled with. I used a few of the designs, but the box still sits mostly unused.

This year, I was in Hobby Lobby just after Thanksgiving and unexpectedly found a box of blanks by My Mind's Eye. I was so excited to find them. I instantly fell in love with the designs. The designs went perfectly with the stamps I had bought and planned to use this year.

I wonder if My Minds Eye makes these sets exclusively for HL? Some patterns are obviously pieces from their old line "festive signature Christmas".

This is my favorite card. The ornament is stamp in Brown Brilliance ink. The card is a patterned "blank", and the other printed paper is from Basic Grey.

These are two more cards I made. I love this stamp. I used Brilliance Olive ink, and colored the bird with a brown Tombow marker. The first card blank vintage looking sheet music and the second one are deer. I added striped paper at the lower edge.

I used a chandelier stamp that I had with this card that reminds me of old wallpaper. I made the chandelier sparkle with bling. The edge is a brown piece punched with a scallop punch, and some more striped paper.

I love this bird/nest stamp. It is a two part stamp by Memory Box. I just it was so sweet. I did several variations of this design.

Here are a couple of variations of cards that used the same Memory Box stamps. I like how the saying seemed to fit with the family of birds.

I really like the vintage feel of these. I printed some copies of a favorite image and added it to the cards. The first card uses a blank Cavallini label with a stamped sentiment. The second is a printed Cavallini label.

These two cards were done in pretty much the same manner. The first one just has glitter added to the snow covered branches.

Christmas Tag

2008-12-03T18:03:00.000-06:00

Took an oversized tag and added a vintage Santa that was torn and layered onto the tag. Added other printed papers. Embellished with Christmas flowers (MM) and ribbons/vintage rayon tape. Added some glitter to the tree branches and sentiment.

It's Fall ...

2008-11-23T12:38:00.000-06:00

Basic card that I stamped and colored with colored pencils. Background paper is beautiful Memory Box.

Joy - Christmas Organizer

2008-11-21T02:40:00.000-06:00

I just posted another new project at Buzz and Bloom. I made a fun Holiday organizer. I can keep track of holiday ideas, gift lists, menus, card lists, and dates. Check it out on their blog.

New Projects ...

2008-11-07T02:32:00.000-06:00

I've got two new projects posted on Buzz and Bloom's Blog. The projects use their new colored acrylic pieces, and some of their new chipboard also. I can't say enough about the excellent quality of their products. If you have never tried them, make a point to check them out.

Here is a sneak peek of my "Night on the Town" canvas, and "Guess Who Loves You?" layout.

Purple Onion Designs Thank You

2008-11-06T14:39:00.000-06:00

This is a simple card, yet it is one of my favorites I've made lately. The background paper is from Memory Box. The Thank You Notebook stamp is a new stamp design from Purple Onion Designs. The star stamp is also from POD. I used chalk inks. I love to use these as they blend so nicely.

Haunted House ...

2008-11-06T14:24:00.000-06:00

I forgot all about posting my Halloween Haunted House. I guess late is better than not at all.

When I was in California about a month ago, my sister-in-law and I saw a sample of a haunted house at a local scrapbook store. We loved the project and we each decided to make one. The base is a chipboard Disney castle. I bought some Halloween papers, rub ons, and 3D stickers. I used some of my sister-in-laws stamps and supplies (thank you Renee).

This is the first page in the accordian book. I used rub ons, stickers, pom pom spider, etc.

This is the next page. The pumpkins are cut out of printed paper. Also added bird rub ons, a handmade headstone and grass, sparkly stars, etc.

The back page is my favorite. The old tree is a rub on. The big ghost is a 3D sticker. The bats are from some ribbon trim.

On the backside I did a page of bones. Plastic skull and bones, and stamped skull.

This was a fun project that Renee and I did together. And, it was fun to sit out for the holiday. Very festive.

Crazy Bird Birthday ...

2008-10-27T18:52:00.000-05:00

I am never quite sure how I ended up with this "odd" looking bird (ostrich?) stamp. I know it is older. Anyway, I thought I'd dress him up a little bit, and send him on his way to wish a friend a happy birthday. The background paper is from one of my favorites - Memory Box.

Altered Cabinet Cards ...

2008-10-27T11:44:00.000-05:00

I just finished up a Altered Cabinet Card swap with one of my online art groups. We each had to alter 6 cabinet cards and include some type of container to hold them. We'll each receive 6 random cabinet cards and a container of some sort, in return.

I have to admit that I was somewhat intimidated about altering my cabinet cards... until I started working on them. Oh what fun these were to do!!! I wanted to just keep going on and on. I had absolutely no idea what I was going to do before I sat down at my work table. After working on the first one, there was no slowing me down.

This is my "container". It is just a metal tin (pencil box type) that I added layers of ribbon to the outside, and altered the lid as you can see.

Incident Report - This is probably my favorite card. He was masked and the background was stippled with chalk inks. Colored his prison stripes with colored pencils. Various other stamps and embellishments.

Famous Walrous Soup - How can you not think of a "walrous". The background was also stippled with chalk inks.

Bring in the Clown - This lady inspired me with her clown-like dress she had on. I just drew the giant ruffles and colored with colored pencils. She was masked and background stippled with Brilliance inks. I colored her hair with pencils. Lots of highlighting with pencils also.

Monkey Business - This guy is simply goofy. I drew his hair with a pen and colored pencils. Added stamped images, drawn bowtie, and monkeys. Gotta love his big red nose.

A Stitch in Time - I thought she looked like a seamstress. Not to much else going on in her life? She was masked and I used oil pastels for the background. Various embellishments added.

Princess in Tennis Shoes - I masked this lady off and painted the background with acrylic paints. Did some over stamping. I stamped and cut out her dress and tennis shoes, and attached them to the card (Brilliance ink). She was highlighted with a white colored pencil. Various embellishments added.

Give these a try! You'll have a fun time doing it. Even if you only have copies of cabinet cards, they will work fine. Just attach them to poster board or mat board.

Believe ...

2008-10-20T15:51:00.000-05:00

I just finished a new design team project for Buzz and Bloom. They just announced new products which include even more creative chipboard designs and the NEW and WONDERFUL line of acrylics. The acrylics are made a nice heavy acrylic in solid and translucent colors. There is even a mirrored acrylic available. I have never seen a product like this before.

See my project here.

2008-10-20T07:54:00.000-05:00

I absolutely am in love with Buzz and Bloom's new products. Check out the gorgeous acrylic albums/books that are now available. These acrylic pieces have such quality and detail to them.

When I saw the Beaded Curtain Acrylic Book, I saw Christmas written all over it. This design looked like retro ornaments to me. I am not much of a scrapbooker, but I decided I wanted to make a book highlighting my childhood Christmas memories. I have become very nostalgic and thought this would be a great way to share some of my thoughts. I have no pictures of my early Christmas's so I dove in and just made this without them. It wasn't an obstacle for me and anyone hesitating to do an album without pictures... just do it!

The acrylic pieces come with a paper backing on them. You don't realize how beautiful the etched design and the color is until you remove the protective backing. This is the translucent "ruby" color. Can you see how the first page inside the album is visible from the outside? I left my cover plain, but you can do so many things with this acrylic - stamp on it, ink it, use rub ons, use markers and glitter glue... so many more creative techniques too.

I used the Basic Grey "Figgy Pudding" coordinating papers for the inside of my album. The papers made it simple since they are sturdy and double-sided. I decided to cover memories of Christmas trees, gift giving, stockings, foods, traditions, and favorites. I first cut my pages in varying sizes and then reinforced the binding edge with a coordinating strip of cardstock before punching my holes. Tip - make a simple template for punching the holes.

Here are the interior pages of my album.

Notice the staggered size of pages at the right side of the photo.

I added thoughts and stories about our families Christmas trees and stockings.

On the right page, I used another new Buzz and Bloom acrylic piece - Beaded Curtain in 'bottle green".

On the Kitchen pages, I journaled about all my favorites holiday foods and stories. I added a pocket page to hold favorite family recipies.

I journaled about all sorts of family traditions. Everything from how the house was decorated to christmas cards.

I used my favorite chipboard alphabet - that 70's alphabet on this page.

I used a chipboard round corner flourish on the left page.

The last 2 pages are all about some holiday favorites - movies, songs, gifts. I used a Buzz and Bloom chipboard timeline, and a chipboard long corner flourish.

Along with some thought out journaling, I really tried to spend some extra time on the little details. I think that is what helps to make an album like this extra special.

Enjoy the new acrylic!!! It is wonderful!!!

Halloween...

2008-10-17T03:27:00.000-05:00

Here are just a few Halloween cards that I started before I left on vacation. I finally got back to them yesterday to finish them.

The first card is using one of Michele's new "noteblock" stamps from Purple Onion Designs. Love this stamp. It is so versatile. You can use as shown, or punch/cut specific words or portions of the image out. And, I still love her stamps too, because they are still good old red rubber!!!! Check out all of her new stamps!!! This uses Basic Grey Ambrosia printed paper. Also, the crow stamp is from Stampabilities; the cauldron from Impress; birdhouse from Inkadinkadoo.

Cut the words "fright night" from the same stamped image. Ticket, brackets, and hand are also from Purple Onion. BG Ambrosia and Making Memories paper.

Basic Grey Ambrosia paper.

Printed paper from Memory Box... the paper is gorgeous.

Again, words cut from the original Purple Onion Halloween stamp. Printed paper is BG Ambrosia.

Background paper is Making Memories. Words cut from POD Halloween stamp.

A tall, skinny card with Making Memories Background paper. The vapors on the cauldron are highlighted with a glitter pen. Shows up more in this picture than in real life.

Happy Halloween. BOO!

I'm home...

2008-10-15T04:11:00.000-05:00

Well, we are home from our "road trip" to California. Be patient with me as I have to get my photo sharing done so that I can get on with some art.

On the way there, we took a few extra days and did a little exploring. From our home, we first hit Dallas... always a favorite place of ours. Then we had a long day getting to Albuquerque. Next, we side stepped to Sedona, Arizona. What a magnificent area! I highly recommend visiting this area (and the grand canyon which is 2 hours north) if you ever have the chance.

Check out these pictures from in and around Sedona. We had a closeup view of the red rocks from our room. The colors of the rocks are beautiful, and ever changing throughout the day. Just incredible.

We then drove through Phoenix and on to Palm Springs. I had never been in the Phoenix area, and I have to say that I liked it. It was hot (by my standards) but still very nice.

Our stay is Palm Springs was great too. It was 105 when we arrived, but it cooled off nicely in the evening. And, I must say... it was a "dry" heat (unlike here) so we weren't bothered by it.

We stayed in the old, historic area of Palm Springs. The city of palm trees. We chose to stay in a small 9 room boutique inn (Desert Riviera). A generous and wonderful couple beautifully restored an old (mid-century) "motel". It is meticulously taken care of and decorated just like it would of been in the 50's. Basically, all of the rooms look over the pool and courtyard, with a view of the mountains in the background. We met couples from Australia, England and Holland the night we stayed there. It was just a stones through away from the downtown where all of the fine restaurants and shops are.

This will give you an idea of what the inn was like. I kept waiting for Frank or Dean to show up!! I could have easily stayed here longer.

These were taken while sitting in a poolside lounge chair.

The next day we drove through classically crazy L.A. traffic. Went by sites from many years of visiting and vacationing in the area. Even saw the hospital where I was born... it is still there.

Our next stop was a late lunch in Santa Barbara. Love this stretch of the coast. Lunch wasn't that great, but the views were.

Here is a picture of the beautiful beach and the pier. Lots of good memories here. Even part of our honeymoon was spent here.

We continued up the coast and stopped in Pismo Beach and Grover Beach. As kids, we didn't live too far from Pismo and our dad would frequently bring us here (and to Morro Bay). Our first "memorable" camping trip was in Pismo too (it rained the entire time).

These photos were taken just north of Pismo ... looking back at the beaches and the "dunes".

Our stop that night was in Paso Robles. It is a smallish town that is just inland. We lived in Paso Robles when I was a young child. I hadn't been here in many, many years. It used to be surrounded by baron hills with grazing cattle. Now, as far as you can see... it is all vineyards. It was so beautiful to see all of the green, rolling hills. And, the town has really re-invented itself. The old downtown where we used to do our shopping (which wasn't "old" back then), is now full of renovated shops and restaurants. There is an endless supply of small vineyards and tasting rooms in the area. We visited only one specific one that Ted wanted to see.

Our last day of traveling took us to my brother's house in the Bay Area. It was now time to prepare for my niece's wedding. The weather so far on every leg of our trip had been extraordinary. Couldn't have asked for anything nicer. But, the weather predictions for the day of the wedding weren't looking good. Rain was predicted... and it was to be an outdoor wedding. It ended up that the weather was just fine. It sprinkled a bit during the night, but was gorgeous the day of.

This is Mandi and Luke at their rehearsal dinner.

Luke being given a few words of advice from his future father-in-law (my brother).

The bride being walked down the aisle.

AJ ... looking so grown up in his tuxedo.

Mr. and Mrs. O'Dell.

Mother of the bride... Renee.

My other brother who came to the wedding.

Instead of the traditional bride and groom, the wedding cake had Shrek and Fiona on the top of it. All of the tables had names which were characters taken from the movie. The guys had fun with the table markers.

After the wedding was over, we still had several days left to visit with family. We had a great time.

Visiting with another nephew and another sister-in-law.

AJ ... YOU ROCK!!!!!

Ted took a side trip... I wonder where? Actually, we went to a stamp store in Fairfield one day. Our first house was in Fairfield 25 years ago. It used to be within site of the Jelly Belly factory. So, while Renee and I shopped at the stamp store, Ted went and got his belly flops at the factory. Fun was had by all that day!

After a week at my brothers, we headed home. It was a fast and straight shot home. Had a couple of long days driving. The only bad weather we had was coming out of Albuquerque on Saturday morning. A storm was brewing with the hurricane coming up from Mexico. As we were leaving, we drove through sheets of rain. We missed the more intense rain and hail that they had that day.

What a great trip! Thank you to Robert and Renee for their wonderful hospitality. Thanks to any of you that are still reading this for being patient with my photo posting. I'll back to sharing my art very soon. I've got some to share.

I'll Be Back ...

2008-10-07T06:41:00.000-05:00

I haven't disappeared ... I'm just on vacation. I'll be home this weekend and will be back to my "normal" routine. I must say, I am in great need of an art-fix.

See you soon.

Daughter ...

2008-09-21T07:05:00.000-05:00

I've got a new design team project posted on Buzz and Bloom's blog. I can't show you the complete project here yet, but if you get the chance please take a look.

Ribbit ....

2008-09-10T16:32:00.000-05:00

Two cards I made recently using a cute frog stamp colored with Prismacolor pencils and mineral spirits. The background paper used in the first card is my favorite... Memory Box.

We have survived Gustav...

2008-09-02T08:12:00.000-05:00

We are safe and survived the hurricane. I am not sure we are on "dry" ground, but I guess it was high enough. We managed to stay on the outer rings of Gustav. It went a bit farther west of where they predicted once it hit land, so we are now just catching tropical storm winds/rain. Scary enough though. It started raining and blowing Monday evening and is still doing so. But, it seems to be a bit calmer now... overall. Last night the winds and gusts were quite strong. More than I am comfortable with. Kept me awake most of the night. No obvious damage to our house....just some broken tree branches and lots of standing water everywhere you look. We just have some minor cleanup.

The schools are all closed today and tomorrow... so alot of people aren't even able to go to work. Some debris on the roads this morning and localized flooding. But, all seems to be okay. Some power outages in area. So far that hasn't affected us.

Maybe I will go do some art to calm myself down after a weekend full of wonder, worry and stress. It certainly didn't feel like a "holiday" weekend around here. I'm just very thankful.

Hurricane Gustav ...

2008-08-30T20:26:00.000-05:00

Most of you know that hurricane Gustav has entered the Gulf of Mexico and is on it's way somewhere along the gulf coast. As it stands now, it is still predicted to hit New Orleans (or somewhere very close to New Orleans) late on Monday.

Although we are about 200 miles northwest of New Orleans, we are still in the direct path of what will be the remnants of hurricane Gustav. It will most likely still be a tropical storm. With Katrina, we didn't even get rain or strong winds. We were very lucky. Rita brought us some rain and gusty wind, but no local damage.

Locally, they are predicting we will most likely have tropical storm winds (39+ mph sustained wind) AND from 10 to 20 inches of rain. We are going to be to the NE side of the storm, which is the area that receives most of the rain and wind, and potential tornadoes. It is where you DON'T want to be. Needless to say, this isn't how any of us here wanted to spend our Labor Day weekend.

Our town always acts as a "shelter" destination for coastal residents. We always get a great influx of visitors during most storms. They are busing in thousands of coastal residents this time, in addition to those that drive in on their own. Many shelters had opened by this morning. Hotels and motels have been booked solid for several days. We have a horse and livestock shelter set up at one of the arenas. Schools have already been declared closed for Tuesday and Wednesday. Each convention center or coliseum is being used for different types of shelters ... people with pets, handicapped, etc. So far, things are going as planned.

I had planned on doing my normal grocery shopping yesterday. I wasn't prepared for it to be such a zoo at WalMart and the local grocery store. I figured today would be the crazy day. I guess it was a mix of normal, holiday weekend, hurricane, and end of month shopping for everyone. We stocked up on the normal foods plus more packaged stuff than usual. Have lots of batteries and water (although WalMart was out of water yesterday). Went to the ATM before they started running out of cash. All three cars are full of gas, as is the propane bbq. Regular gasoline jumped from $3.46 to $3.69 overnight.... um????

Sunday will be spent preparing the house. Everything must be brought indoors. Nothing should be left in the yard to "fly" around. It is amazing what can become airborn, and the damage and injuries that airborn items can do. I am worried about possible wind damage as we have alot of large bayou trees near us. And, the amount of rain that is predicted scares me. 10 - 20 inches is alot of rain!!!! ... even in Louisiana. Thankfully, I just paid my homeowners insurance renewal ... and we have had flood insurance for years even though it isn't required where we live.

I'm truly not sure what this hurricane is going to bring. If I disappear, it is most likely due to loss of power and internet service. But, hopefully we will still be on dry land. Keep your fingers crossed for all of us along the gulf coast and inland in the path of this storm.

What a hoot ...

2008-08-28T11:06:00.000-05:00

It was my brothers birthday a few days ago, and this is the card that I made for him.

The background paper is from Memory Box... the "twiggy" collection. I absolutely LOVE their 6x6 paper packs. I think each one gets more gorgeous than the previous. Beautiful, heavy, high quality paper. I highly recommend it to everyone.

I believe this owl stamp is from Maya Road. The other "birthday" stamps are all Hero Arts. The inside of the card says "what a hoot".

Hope you had a happy birthday Robert.

A Few of my Favorite Things ...

2008-08-22T10:00:00.000-05:00

I made this card using a few of my favorite things ...

Favorite flourish stamp (by Stampington)

Favorite new ink color (Brilliance olive)

Favorite saying - well, one of my favorites

Favorite image - anything with a bird

2008-08-19T07:37:00.000-05:00

I was originally inspired to create my "rustic window birdhouse" when I found this unfinished wooden box. The box was meant to hold two decks of cards. But, when I first opened the box, I felt like I was looking through a window... and that was my inspiration.

To make my "rustic window birdhouse", I first decided to leave the box unfinished to give a rustic feel to the piece. I then started making the background. The background in the box is kraft colored paper with clouds subtly chalked onto the paper. There are 4 recessed areas within the box, so I cut my background paper to fit each square.

I had this printed birdhouse picture that I backed with heavy cardstock. I determined where I wanted it to sit outside my "window", and then cut it into 4 pieces. I planned on placing the birdhouse on foam dots so that the piece would have lots of dimension to it.

The birds also needed some dimension, so I highlighted them using Diamond Glaze. They came to life!

I went to my yard and picked up a handful of fallen birch tree branches. I layed some of the twigs out inside the box in a pattern that looked natural, and that might possibly look like they were holding the birdhouse in a tree. I snipped them to size and glued them in place. I made sure the twigs laid flat agains the box so that the birdhouse could sit above some of them. The next step was to actually attached the birdhouse to the box using the foam dots.

I took paper flowers and leaves and attached them to a couple of locations on the branches and birdhouse.

For a finishing touch, I added some of Buzz and Bloom's ..... chipboard pieces. I inked up the leaves with brilliance inks

Fly ...

2008-08-14T15:47:00.000-05:00

I just wanted to share a recent design team project that I did for Buzz and Bloom. It is a shadow box entitled "Fly". Check out some of my other Buzz and Bloom projects and read the instructions for this project by clicking here.

Daisy, Daisy ...

2008-08-14T03:40:00.000-05:00

I have to share a photo of my sweet new little friend. My brother and sister-in-law had given me a gift certificate from Build A Bear for my birthday. I had never had the experience or thrill of taking any kids there, and since I am a big kid at heart... getting this gift was perfect for me.

While my sister-in-law was visiting recently, we made a trip to the Build A Bear store in Shreveport (on the Boardwalk). I had a fun time just looking around and deciding which bear I wanted and what outfit "she" was going to wear. I was like a kid in a candy store. Having her come to life was really fun.

I want to introduce to you -- "Daisy". She is my new 'gardening' buddy. I think she is adorable. I have to get a nice daisy to pin to her overalls. You can't see them in the photo... but she is wearing tattered looking flip flops.

Thanks Robert and Renee... I love my birthday bear.

Spirit of the West (#1)

2008-08-13T18:55:00.000-05:00

As I recently posted, in late July I attended an art retreat with a group of fellow online artists. I finally have pictures of my finished "Spirit of the West" book to share.

To some, this may look like an odd looking hodge podge of paper and embellishments. But... to me it is many days of creating, having fun, and making memories with good friends.

During our long weekend, we each made a spiral bound western themed book. The pages were made from mat board and the book was to be bound with the Bind-It-All. We had a sample to follow and/or use for inspiration. I chose to bind only 3-4 of my pages, and lace together several of my pages side by side, creating a long accordian pull out page.

This is the simple cover I ended up making. The mat board was covered with Cosmo Cricket papers. I added pressed tin tileaged I aged with StazOn ink. The hand sewn, fabric transfer piece was a gift from one of our members. She made each of us one, and I thought it was so lovely that I had to showcase it on my cover.

The first page was a page dedicated to my cowgirls Faith, Hope and Charity.

After the first page are two pocket pages. The first having a stitched tag inside of it, a hand covered bandana button and various images.

The second pocket page is a folded paper bag page that is all about "kid" cowboys and cowgirls. The front has three tags tucked away. They include stamped images and even a denim pocket with a bandana hanging out of it.

The backside of the paper bag page has the cutest image of youngsters, and a cute wanted poster. I even include a packing tape transferred star image.

The next page is my "yellow rose of Texas" page. The flower is dimensional. It is several layers of cardstock with the edges rolled up, with the top layer being a photo of a yellow rose. Some tea dyed lace is around the flower.

-- to keep this post from getting too long, I will post the continuation of my westerm book within the next day or so.

Same But Different ...

2008-08-13T15:30:00.000-05:00

These two cards were made with the same papers, stamped image and scallop punch. Just wanted to share card variations using exactly the same items.

Dog Days of Summer ...

2008-08-06T10:11:00.000-05:00

One of my online art groups has a monthly art lottery. This months theme is "dog days of summer". We can make whatever we want, as long as it is in the theme. I took this theme quite literally and came up with this foam core dog "row" house. It is truly silly and cute.

Summertime Bird Lady ...

2008-08-03T14:11:00.000-05:00

I had some Paula Best stamps that I purchased at least a year ago and had not yet used. Today, I decided I'd get the sets out and play with them.

I made this "bird lady" using a body stamp and a floral head stamp. The stamped images were colored using Prismacolor pencils and Sansodor (for blending). The body is mounted on a piece of foam core. I brought the head forward a bit more with a piece of chipboard. The arms are a ribbon loop with a glass bead. The legs are a scrap of beaded button trim. I added a looped wired at the top to hang my "dangly" bird lady.

Girly Girl Dress Cards ...

2008-07-30T17:38:00.000-05:00

These dress form cards were a lot of fun to make. I received one from a secret sister and thought it was just the cutest girly card. I "borrowed" the idea and improvised.

I drew a pattern for my dress shape. I folded a sheet of 12x12 paper in half and cut out 3 dress forms (fold at shoulders). I punched a coordinating "collar" using a StampinUp flower punch. I adhered the flower shape to the front of the dress, and then punched a smaller circle from the center to form the scallopped collar. The purses are made from StampinUp's tab punch and a circle punch. Each dress was embellished with a ribbon belt, and "bling".

Even though each dress was made from the same printed paper, I think each one has it's own personality. But, they are all girly girl dresses. These were super easy and a lot of fun to make.

Artful Gathering ...

2008-07-27T19:01:00.000-05:00

I am home from my annual trip to the Artful Gathering. This is an art retreat that is organized for one of the online art groups that I am active in. It is four great days of primarily doing altered art (and attending a stamp convention). We do lots of art, eat, laugh, get to know each other better ... just have a wonderful time. I think we had 21 attendees this year. They came from all over the country. I am so lucky to be a part of this group and to do art with such talented women.

The theme for this years Artful Gathering was "Spirit of the West". Our main project was a bound western/cowgirl book. I will be posting photos of my finished book in the next couple of days, along with photos of other projects.

I also recieved my round robin altered book. I have art by three other artists in my book. I will be getting that photographed and posted soon also.

I am also thrilled that I have my sister-in-law and nephew visiting us for a few weeks. I couldn't ask for anything better!!! What a treat for us. My nephew is growing up so quickly, but is really a nice young man. I'm very proud of him. He has been having fun swimming, playing with the dog, playing Guitar Hero, and watching movies. He's played basketball at the gym with his uncle, and also gone golfing with him. I think he favorite part is driving the golf cart.

I'll be back soon with photos of all that I have been working on.

2008-07-14T03:46:00.000-05:00

"FLY - there are no limits" .... this shadow box was designed with a special friend in mind. She has had a challenging year, and I felt this would be a nice gift of friendly encouragement.

I started with an inexpensive wooden shadow box. The shadow box has a depth of about 1.25". I painted the frame with white paint, and then gave it a finishing glaze that had just a bit of aqua colored paint in it. When that was dry, I lightly sanded the frame to give it a slight distressed look.

Next, I cut to fit inside my box, two styles of Buzz and Bloom's Arboretum - Retro Vine chipboard. I inked these with a chalk ink base, and highlighted the pieces with a light tap of brilliance ink to give them some iridescence and dimension.

Using Buzz and Bloom's ABC's - Distracted Schoolgirl chipboard alphabet, I gathered up the word "fly" and inked it up with chalk ink. I later outlined the letters with a white pen. I also stamped three bird images and cut them out.

After cutting the bird images out, I stacked them and attached them together using pop dots/foam tape. I staggered the cut pieces just a slight amount to give the bird the look of "fluttering" in the breeze.

I printed the words "there are no limits" from my computer. Once I had all of my elements finished, I assembled the contents of the shadow box on the back board, which I covered with textured blue card stock. Note - It isn't very visible in this photo, but the cross piece of is raised up about 1/2" on stacked chipboard remnants. It is a very dimensional piece of art. I also added some extra "leaves" to the vertical limb for added interest.

This was a fun and meaningful project for me. I hope that my friend will be pleased when she receives it and it reminds her that all things are possible.

Now... go and "fly".

Ink Me Up - Sketchbook

Happy Birthday .....

Congratulations Joey and Lisa...

Envelope Memory Box ...

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Backlog of Projects ...

Artful Gathering

Back to Blogging...

Valentine's Day

Valentine 4x4's ...

Buddy - Holly ...

Ornament Card ...

Sweet Giggle ...

Zentangles ...

Hallowe'en In Wonderland ...

Blue Birdie ...

Magic Potions ...

I'm Back!

4th of July ...

Patriotic Cabinet Cards ...

First Day of Summer...

Canvas Tiles ...

Shabby Spring Tag ...

Great News ...

I'm Back...

Isn't Remodeling Fun !?

Altered Gum Container ...

Keeping It Simple and Clean ...

Christmas Skinny Pages ...

25 Days of Christmas ...

Altered Christmas Cabinet Cards (and more) ...

Rain, Rain ...

Who-lloween Cards ...

Shadow Stamps ...

Autumn Time ...

Black Hat Society ...

Happy Birthday Vicki ...

Just Some Cards ...

Be Witchy ...

Tri Fold Shutter Card ...

Paradise ...

Black Hat Society ...

Bird Journal ...

Fish Tails ...

Purple ...

Happy Birthday AJ ...

Oh, what a beautiful morning ...

New Technique "Glimmering Tie-Dye" ...

Update on me ...

Coaster Calendar ...

Mother's Day ...

Quilties ...

Quick Cards ...

Altered Spoons ...

Signs of Spring ...

Easter

Every Buggie ...

Altered Wand ...

Where does time go? ...

Pocket Cards ...

Valentine Cupid

Hanglie Danglie !?!

Hanglie Danglie

Hanging Ribbon Storage ...

New Cards

Happy New Year to you all ...

Snowman ...

Christmas Cards ...

Christmas Tag

It's Fall ...

Joy - Christmas Organizer

New Projects ...

Purple Onion Designs Thank You

Haunted House ...

Crazy Bird Birthday ...

Altered Cabinet Cards ...

Believe ...

Halloween...

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