Wednesday, March 13, 2024

Crafting Kindness: A Filled With Fun Colorful Stamping Adventure

 Welcome back to a world of paper crafts. Today, we're diving into a project that's as colorful as it is beautiful. So, grab your Kindest Expressions stamp set, the Filled With Fun stamp set, and those amazing Stampin' Blends Alcohol Markers. It's time to turn plain cardstock into a masterpiece filled with laughter and love.

The star of the show today is the Kindest Expressions stamp set because, let's be real, who can resist spreading kindness with a smile? The sentiment we're using is like a warm hug wrapped in a one-line message. Placing it right in the middle of the Basic White cardstock, we're making sure that kindness takes center stage, just like it should!

Now, onto the Filled With Fun stamp set and the real beauty – flowers that are ready for their moment in the spotlight! This stamp set is an online exclusive with Stampin' Up!  That's okay with me since most of my shopping is online these days anyway!!

It's time to unleash the power of Stampin' Blends Alcohol Markers. Think of them as the superheroes in the crafting world. We give these flowers a colorful makeover, because let's face it, who doesn't love a good floral fashion statement?

The colors used on this card are Azure Afternoon, Poppy Parade, Pool Party, Lemon Lime Twist, Lemon Lolly, Daffodil Delight, and Berry Burst
Tip for you:  the Blends come in pairs (a lighter and darker pen), and I keep mine together by using a hair elastic.  You can purchase these in a package of 100 when you grocery shop or at the drugstore.  Always store Alcohol Markers laying flat.  The markers keep their color longer that way.

 Enter the Poppy Parade cardstock, an unsung hero in the framing department. It's the red carpet for our crafting celebrities, turning our card into a VIP masterpiece. This Basic White cardstock is about to shine like never before, surrounded by the vibrant Poppy Parade glory!

  And there you have it! Our crafting adventure has resulted in a card that's not just a piece of paper; it's a burst of kindness and floral fabulousness. This card is ready to be sent out into the world, armed with the power to spread laughter and joy like confetti at a crafting party.

  I hope this project brought a smile to your face. Remember, crafting is not just about the end result; it's about the journey, the laughs, and the joy it brings. So, until the next crafting escapade, keep those scissors sharp, your stamps ready, and craft with a touch of humor!

Here is the video on my YouTube channel showing step-by-step how to make this card.  While you're there, be sure to give the video a thumbs up and subscribe to the channel.  Your support means so much to me.

Here are the measurements (in inches):

Card Base - Basic White - 8-1/2 x 5-1/2, scored at 4-1/4

Basic White - 3-3/4 x 5

Poppy Parade - 3-7/8 x 5-1/8

  And a list of the supplies used for this colorful card:


Happy crafting, happy laughing, and stay fabulously creative!




Tuesday, March 12, 2024

Stamp-Tastic Adventure Assembling the Kindest Expressions Stamp Set

 Join me as I open a brand new-to-me stamp set and put it together.  This stamp set is a delightful ensemble of stamps promising to add charm and cheer to my latest crafting endeavors.

I don't want to assume that everyone understands the ins and outs of assembling the cling rubber stamps, so I decided to make a video showcasing exactly how easy it is to assemble a set of stamps.

Here is one of the cards I created with the Kindest Expressions stamp set after I assembled it

Since the Kindest Expressions stamp set is a set of four sentiment only stamps, I'm most likely going to pair it with another stamp set any time I use it.  For this card, I paired the sentiment with the Playing in the Rain stamp set.

Here is the video from my YouTube channel about assembling the stamp set below.  While you're there, please be sure to give the video a thumbs up and subscribe to my channel.  I appreciate your support so much.

I also paired this fabulous stamp set with the online exclusive stamp set Filled With Fun.

The possibilities are endless. From heartfelt greeting cards to whimsical scrapbook pages, these stamps are poised to spread joy and kindness with every press.

Crafting brings so much joy – the thrill of creation, the satisfaction of a job well done, and the camaraderie shared among fellow crafters. So, here's to many more stamping escapades and the endless creativity that awaits!


 Until next time, happy crafting, my friends!


Friday, March 8, 2024

Tips and Tricks for Rubber and Photopolymer Stamps with Acrylic Blocks

Today is about some additional tips and tricks specifically focused on mounting rubber cling and photopolymer stamps onto acrylic blocks. This process can sometimes be a bit confusing if it's been a while since you've stamped or you're new to the craft, but with the right techniques, you'll be stamping with ease in no time.

Here is a video from my YouTube channel about stamps and acrylic blocks. While you're there, please be sure to give the video a thumbs up and subscribe to the channel. I appreciate your support.

Cleanliness is Key:
  1. Blocks: For cleaning the blocks, use rubbing alcohol. You can use Prep Pads or you can use the liquid rubbing alcohol that comes in a bottle along with a cotton ball or pad. There is no need to soak the blocks, simply use the pad or cotton ball with a bit of rubbing alcohol and wipe the blocks clean.

  2. Stamps: When cleaning the stamps after use, you can use a shammy - simply wipe the stamp off with the shammy (the purplish item below), or you can use a stamp cleaner pad such as a Stampin' Scrubber (the black item below).

  3. A quick wipe with a wet cloth or using stamp cleaner can do wonders. Or simply run the stamp under water if you're using a water-based ink. The ink will wash right off.

    Test Stamp:
  1. If you're using a red rubber stamp, you cannot see through it like you can the photopolymer, so before committing to your project, do a test stamp on scrap paper.

  2. This allows you to check the positioning and the evenness of the ink coverage. Adjust as needed before stamping on your final project.

  3. Use the Right Size Block:
    Match the size of the acrylic block to the size of the stamp. This ensures proper support for the stamp and allows for precise placement on your project. A too-small block may lead to uneven pressure and a less-than-perfect impression. A too-large block may lead to excess ink landing on your project in an area that wasn't intended.


  4. Consider a mat:
    If you're using a photopolymer stamp, you do not have the cushioning built in to the stamp as you do with the red rubber stamp. For best results, consider stamping on a mat of some sort to help you have cushion and stamp a better image. These tools provide stability and consistency, ensuring that each impression is as good as the last.

  1. Storage Solutions:
    When not in use, store your stamps on their original boxes or backing. This helps maintain the shape and stickiness of the stamps, ensuring they are ready for your next crafting adventure.

Remember, the key to successful stamping lies in practice and finding what works best for you. Don't be afraid to experiment and enjoy the creative journey.

Happy Stamping!



Wednesday, March 6, 2024

Zinnia Wonders: A Bloomin' Beautiful Card Adventure

 Today, we're having fun with a world of floral wonders. We're crafting a bloomin' beautiful card using the stunning Flowering Zinnias Designer Series Paper (DSP), the Zinnia 3D Embossing Folder, the delightful Happy Labels stamp set, and the sentiment die from the whimsical Zany Zoo dies. 

Step into the vibrant universe of Flowering Zinnias! These paper wonders are so vivid that even my houseplants are green with envy. If only they knew how to strike a pose like these zinnias – we'd have the most stylish plants in town. 

Have you seen this Zinnia 3D Embossing Folder (EF) yet?  This folder is such a generous size that's perfect for making a card in a landscape or portrait position.  Talk about versatile.  Either the debossed side or the embossed side are incredible!  

The Happy Labels stamp set is about to become your new best friend in the crafting world. It's like a joyous dance party, and your card is the VIP guest! Stamp away, and watch as your creation transforms into a burst of happiness. It's like giving your card a joyous personality injection – who wouldn't want that?

Now, I know we're not at the zoo, but we're about to unleash some wild creativity with the Zany Zoo dies. The sentiment die (at the top right of the below photo) is like the cute, quirky animal that steals the show. Get ready to cut out your sentiment and let the crafting zoo begin – no animal crackers required!

All together, the Flowering Zinnias DSP, Zinnia EF, the Happy Labels stamp set, and our sentiment shape from the Zany Zoo dies come together like a dream team. It's not just a card; it's a masterpiece.

This card is reaching new heights of creativity – it's practically "petal to the metal"! Oh, the joys of crafting humor – I'm here all day, folks.

 The video showing step-by-step instructions for this card on my YouTube channel is linked below.  Please be sure to visit the channel and give the video a thumbs up and subscribe to the channel. I truly appreciate your support.

And there you have it – this bloomin' beautiful card is ready to steal the spotlight. All these fun elements have collaborated to create a masterpiece that's more fabulous than a disco-dancing unicorn.

Thanks for joining me on this crafting escapade! If you enjoyed this blog post, be sure to subscribe for more crafty content. 

Measurements (in inches):

Card Base - Basic White - 8-1/2 x 5-1/2, scored at 4-1/4

DSP - 7/8 x 4 (3 of them)

Blackberry Bliss, embossed - 4 x 5-1/4

Basic White - 3 x 4-1/4

scrap for sentiment die cut

inside - DSP - 1/2 x 5-1/4

Here are the supplies that were used for this card:

Until next time, happy crafting, and may your days be filled with bloomin' beautiful creations!


Tuesday, March 5, 2024

Crafting Magic: A Journey with Delightfully Eclectic Paper and Die Cuts

 Welcome to this fun craft corner, where creativity meets some giggles and every project is a masterpiece in the making. Today, we're wandering into the enchanting world of crafting with the Delightfully Eclectic Designer Series Paper, a bit of dry embossing, and a touch of adhesive-backed die cuts. Get ready to be inspired, laugh a little, and create something truly magical!

Let's kick things off with a paper party! The Delightfully Eclectic Designer Series Paper (DSP) is like the VIP guest at our crafting soiree – bold, vibrant, and ready to turn our cards into works of art. Our crafting hands are doing the happy dance!


I love the pattern I chose for this card! Such a great pattern.

Now, let's bring in the suspense – dry embossing style! Cue the crafty drumroll as we run our paper through the embossing machine. A little texture here, a touch of drama there – our card is getting the spa treatment, and it's loving every moment of it.


Time for some crafting sorcery – adhesive-backed die cuts! For this project, I used the Gorgeously Made Die Cuts. When you add adhesive sheets to the card stock and run these through the Cut & Emboss Machine, these are the superheroes of the crafting world – sticky, precise, and ready to make our card elements stick around like a great friend. Watch out, crafting universe – our card is here to steal the show!

Crafting with heart – that's what this is all about. The "By My Side" stamp set is a go-to for sentiments that say, I'm "here for you", just like glitter at a craft party!" And let's not forget the Stylish Shapes die cuts – the fashion-forward elements that will make our card runway-ready.

VoilĂ ! The card is complete, ready to make hearts skip a beat. Remember, crafting is all about joy, laughter, and maybe a glitter explosion or two. To all the fabulous crafters, no matter what your age, keep crafting, keep laughing, and keep being the amazing creatives you are.


Here are the measurements for you: (in inches)

Card base - Misty Moonlight - 8-1/2 x 5-1/2, scored at 4-1/4

DSP - 3-1/8 x 3-3/4

Misty Moonlight, embossed - 1-7/8 x 3-3/4

Basic White - 5-1/4 x 4 (cut 2, one is for the inside)

Scraps of Basic White for the Stylish Shapes elements

Scrap of Night of Navy for Gorgeously Made element and backed with the Adhesive Sheet

DSP for inside card - 1/2 x 5-1/4

Here are the supplies used in this card:

If you enjoyed this crafty escapade, check out the video on my YouTube channel. While you're there, don't forget to hit that like button, subscribe for more creative chaos, and let's continue spreading the joy of crafting together!

Until our next crafting adventure, happy creating!



Crafting Bliss: A Meandering Meadows Card with Art and a Dash of Shimmer

Greetings, crafty friends! Get ready to embark on a crafting journey that's as delightful as a cup of tea on a rainy day. Today, is featuring the enchanting Meandering Meadows Designer Series Paper and the heartwarming Wonderful Thoughts stamp set. But hey, we're not stopping there – we're throwing in some dry embossing using a Basic 3D Embossing Folder and a sprinkle of shimmer with Textured Shimmer Designer Series Paper. Let's turn the ordinary into a work of art that'll leave your friends in awe! 

Our journey begins with the Meandering Meadows DSP, a floral paradise without the pesky pollen. It's like taking a stroll through a garden without worrying about sneezing fits.
Now, let's add a touch of magic with dry embossing by using the Basic 3D Embossing Folder. It might sound fancy, but it's simpler than finding your keys in the morning. This step will give your card the texture it deserves, making it fabulous.
But wait, there's more dazzle to add! Introducing the Textured Shimmer Designer Series Paper, because a little shimmer never hurt anyone.
Attach this beauty to your card base, and suddenly, your creation goes from fabulous to out-of-this-world fantastic.
Enter the Wonderful Thoughts stamp set. I stamped a sentiment from this wonderful set on the inside of the card.

This stamp set gives any card a touch of kindness and charm. It's like having a supportive friend right at your fingertips.
Here are the measurements for the card (in inches)
Card base - Early Espresso - 5-1/2 x 8-1/2 scored at 4-1/4
Pecan Pie, embossed, 4 x 5-1/4
DSP focal point - 2-3/4 x 2-3/4
DSP strips 1 x 4-1/2 and (shimmer paper) 1/2 x 4
Early Espresso - 2-7/8 x 2-7/8
Inside - Very Vanilla - 3-7/8 x 5-1/8 and DSP 3-7/8 x 1/2

Here's the video on my YouTube channel that shows you how to make this card from the beginning to end - please be sure to give the video a thumbs up and subscribe to the channel. I appreciate your support so much!
And there you have it – a card that's not just a card, but a masterpiece of your own creation.

All the supplies used to make the card are here:
So, go ahead, let your creativity flow, make someone's day, and always remember: crafting is cheaper than therapy!

Until next time, stay crafty and fabulous!

Monday, March 4, 2024

Bloomin' Beautiful Birthday Bash: Crafting Chaos with Zinnias and Zest!

 Hey there, fabulous friends and fellow craft enthusiasts! Welcome to this crafting corner where we're about to embark on a wild journey of paper, ink, and a sprinkle of whimsy. Today's spotlight is on an extraordinary birthday card concocted using the dazzling Flowering Zinnias Designer Series Paper, the magical touch of dry embossing, and the charm-filled Very Best Occasions stamp set. Buckle up, because this card is not just a card – it's a floral fiesta!


First things first, let's talk paper! The Flowering Zinnias Designer Series Paper (DSP) is basically the BeyoncĂ© of the crafting world – bold, beautiful, and stealing the spotlight effortlessly. The vibrant hues and intricate designs are enough to make any birthday pal gasp with delight. It's so eye-catching; even your neighbor's cat will pause mid-prowl just to admire its beauty.

Now, let's throw in some dry embossing for good measure. We're not just sending a card; we're sending an experience. The embossed patterns add that touch of elegance – like the fancy sprinkle on top of your favorite cupcake. Because why settle for ordinary when you can have extraordinary?

The Very Best Occasions Stamp Set Takes Center Stage

Enter the Very Best Occasions stamp set – the unsung hero of heartfelt messages and quirky sentiments. This stamp set isn't just here to say, "Happy Birthday"; it's here to scream, "Let's Party like it's 1999!" The fun phrases and cheerful fonts make it clear – this birthday is going to be the best one yet.


And now, drumroll, please...

Inside Scoop: This Card Unveils a Bloomin' Surprise!

Open the card, and you're in for a treat! Inside, a stamped Zinnia from the Simply Zinnia stamp set graces the stage. It's not just a flower; it's a burst of joy. The zinnia whispers, "Life may be chaotic, but your birthday is your time to bloom, darling!" Who knew a stamp could be so sassy?


Humor with Heart: The Cherry on Top

As we wrap up this crafting tale, let's talk about the humor – because life's too short for serious cards. The card is like the best friend who knows how to make you smile, even on your worst days. It's a celebration of the chaos, the imperfections, and the sheer awesomeness of being alive.

Here are the measurements (in inches)

Card Base - Old Olive - 11 x 4-1/4, scored at 5-1/2

Blackberry Bliss - 3-1/8 x 4-3/8

DSP - 3 x 4-1/4

Old Olive - 2 x 5-1/2, dry embossed

Basic White scrap and Mossy Meadow scrap - cut with same size circle from Stylish Shapes Dies

Inside - Basic White - 3-3/4 x 5; Blackberry Bliss - 3-7/8 x 5-1/8

So, my friend, whether you're gifting this masterpiece to your sister, best friend, or that awesome aunt who always knows how to throw a party, rest assured, you've just handed them a slice of joy wrapped in zinnia petals.

Here is the video from my YouTube channel where you can see how the card is made, step-by-step.  While you're there, please give the  video a thumbs up and subscribe to the channel.  I appreciate your support.

Craft on, fellow creatives! Life is short, but the joy of crafting lasts forever. Until next time, stay fabulous and keep the glitter on! 

The supplies used to make this card - the Flowering Zinnias DSP [163469], Adhesive-Backed Shiny Sequins [163484], and the Simply Zinnia stamp set [163472] available as of March 5, 2024: 

Crafting is all about joy, and this card doesn't disappoint. It's the perfect blend of floral and love, making it a gift that's not just received but cherished.

Yours in crafting chaos,