Stamped and Sponged Beauty of Friendship Card

There are some times when we need encouragement or support in trying or difficult times. I created this card as a thinking of you and support card for those times. I was inspired by the beautiful trees and the bright sunny days that we have been having lately and how much joy a warm sunny day brings me. 

Looking up at the sky, seeing the trees circled around me and the sun above seemed like kind friends. The inside of the card is stamped with a tree in the lower left corner, leaving room for a comforting message.

The looking up at the tree and sun scene is created by first stamping the tree leaves and tree trunk images around the edges of the 2nd Mat. I knew where I wanted to place the sun, so I was careful to leave plenty of room for the sun.

Next I created a mask and a reverse mask for the sun. I used a piece of Basic White cardstock and die cut the 2nd smallest stitched circle from it. I kept both the circle die cut and the piece of cardstock. The piece of cardstock with the circle cut out of it will become the mask. I used a blending brush to sponge So Saffron ink through the mask to make a sun shape.

Then I removed the mask and replaced it with the reverse mask - the circle die cut. I added the tiniest bit of Stampin' Seal adhesive to the back of the circle die cut to temporarily attach the circle die cut to the 2nd Mat. The circle die cut will keep the ink from covering the sun area while I sponged the sky.

I lightly added Tahitian Tide ink to a blending brush and applied it to the 2nd Mat in a swirling motion. I left some areas with patches of the white cardstock showing through to give the idea of sunlight shining through a whisper of clouds.

The greeting with stamped on a piece of Basic White cardstock and added to the lower right corner of the 2nd Mat. The 2nd Mat was adhered to the center of the 1st Mat and then to the card front.

You can use sticky note paper or computer paper in place of the Basic White cardstock for the mask and reverse mask. I had cut an extra circle for another project that I ended up not using, so it was right next to me on my desk.

Below are the measurements and supply list for this stamped and sponged Beauty of Friendship card.

Measurements

• Card Base: 4-1/4" x 11"; scored at 5-1/2" (Thick Basic White Cardstock)
• 1st Mat: 4" x 5-1/4" (Early Espresso Cardstock)
• 2nd Mat: 3-5/8" x 4-7/8" (Basic White Cardstock)
• Greeting: 1/2" x 1-3/4" (Basic White Cardstock)
• Circle Mask/Reverse Mask: 2" x 3" (Basic White Cardstock, sticky note paper, or computer paper) - use the 2nd smallest stitched circle die
  

Supplies

• #154983 Beauty of Friendship Stamp Set
• #159229 Thick Basic White Cardstock
• #119686 Early Espresso Cardstock
• #159276 Basic White Cardstock
• #147089 Garden Green Ink Pad
• #159210 Tahitian Tide Ink Pad
• #147109 So Saffron Ink Pad
• #147114 Early Espresso Ink Pad
• #110755 Multipurpose Liquid Glue
• #152813 Stampin' Seal Adhesive
  
• #118485 Clear Block D
• #118490 Clear Block H
• #118489 Clear Block G
  
• #102300 Bone Folder
• #103579 Paper Snips
• #130148 Grid Paper
• #152392 Paper Trimmer
• #149653 Stampin' Cut & Emboss Machine
• #159183 Stylish Shapes Dies
• #153611 Blending Brushes 
• Optional: sticky note paper or computer paper
  

 

I hope you enjoyed today's card! I hope you give this stamped and sponged Beauty of Friendship card a try! If you need supplies to make this card, please shop my online store HERE. 

Thanks for stopping by!

Beth

 

Sneak Peek: Scary Cute Luminaries

I am so excited to share with you a sneak peek from the upcoming 2022 July-December Mini Catalog! Today's projects are a pair of Halloween tea light luminaries features the Scary Silhouette Dies.

There are so many wonderful new products in the 2022 July-December Mini Catalog that I know you are going to love! It was so hard to choose what to share first! I am starting with Halloween because it is one of my favorite holidays and because it is one of the first holidays in fall.

I created these luminaries to highlight the Scary Silhouettes Dies versatility and to display on my mantle in my family room for the Halloween season. Luminaries were the first idea that I had when I saw these dies! I noticed how the tree label shaped die could be used to cut a window out of the center of the solid label shaped die and thought how fun that would be to be a panel on a luminary!

 

 

I was determined to make luminaries this year even before I saw the July-December Mini Catalog. I have been sitting on this idea since early January when I made treat bags for Valentine's Day with hearts die cut around the tops of the bags. I thought they would be a perfect shape for a luminary!

 

 

The size and shape of my luminary was determined by the size of the solid label die. I measured the solid label die and drew up a template on my grid paper. The Basic Black cardstock luminary was my first prototype. I was really happy with my first attempt, but I quickly realized that I was a half an inch short for the solid label die. So, I used the other dies in the Scary Silhouettes Dies to cut bats, haunted houses, and moons out of the Basic Black cardstock. I adhered squares of vellum to the inside of the luminary and added a tea light candle inside.

I adjusted my measurements and cut a second luminary with vellum cardstock. My second attempt was a success! The solid label die cuts fit perfectly on each of the four sides of the luminary.

I die cut four solid labels and then cut the tree label from the center of each solid label to make each of the four side panels. Then I die cut cats, haunted houses, and bats to decorate each panel and placed a tea light candle inside.

Look at beautiful they look at night! You can really see how the vellum intensifies the light from the candle through the die cut areas!

I hope you enjoyed today's projects! How would you decorate your own luminaries? Below are the measurements and the supply lists for both versions of the Scary Silhouettes Halloween luminaries.

Vellum Luminary Measurements

• Luminary Base: 5-1/2" x 10-1/2"; scored at 2-1/2", 5", 7-1/2", and 10" then rotate 90 degrees and score at 2-1/2"
• Cardstock Side Pieces (cut 4): 3-1/2" x 3" (Basic Black Cardstock)
• Cat: 2-1/2" x 2" (Basic Black Cardstock)
• Haunted House (cut 2): 3" x 3" (Basic Black Cardstock)
• Bats: 2" x 2" (Basic Black Cardstock)

Cardstock Luminary Measurements

• Luminary Base: 5" x 10-1/2"; scored at 2-1/2", 5", 7-1/2", and 10" then rotate 90 degrees and score at 2-1/2"
• Vellum Pieces (cut 4): 2-3/8" x 2-3/8" (Vellum Cardstock)

Supplies

• #101856 Vellum Cardstock
• #121045 Basic Black Cardstock
• #110755 Multipurpose Liquid Glue
• #102300 Bone Folder
• #103579 Paper Snips
• #130148 Grid Paper
• #152392 Paper Trimmer
• #149653 Stampin' Cut & Emboss Machine
• #159851 Scary Silhouettes Dies 
  
• Tea light battery-operated candles
  

EDITED: Below is a template for the vellum luminary. 

The July-December Mini Catalog is coming July 1st! The Scary Silhouettes Dies will become available starting July 1st which is only a few weeks away. I hope you add the Scary Silhouette Dies to the top of your wish list!

Starting July 1st, if you would like to recreate these luminaries and need some supplies, please, shop my online store HERE. If you have any stamping questions, I am happy to help!

Thanks for stopping by!

Beth

Lakeside Father's Day S'mores Treat Cups and Bag Topper

My older brother inspired me to create today's projects - a bag topper tag and s'mores treat cups featuring the Campology stamp set (#152553). He and his family live by a lake in New Hampshire. They love to hike the trails, take bike rides, and kayak on the lake.

With Father's Day fast approaching, I knew some last minute treat holders would perfect for a lakeside cookout. I created a treat bag topper to decorate a host gift - a bag of s'mores snack mix.

The s'mores snack mix is made of chocolate covered mini graham crackers and mini marshmallows. It is delicious and surprisingly difficult to put down! When I found it at one of our local grocery stores, I immediately thought of sitting around the fire pit with my brothers and our families last summer. It was nice to all be together!

I also created some 2-1/2" cubed treat cups filled with a bag of s'more mix for immediate enjoyment around the lake and by the campfire. The treat cups are stamped with the tent, binoculars, trees, and coffee pot with a cup images as well as two of the greetings on a simple open-topped box.

I used gusseted cellophane bags and the gold twist ties that come with the cellophane bags. If the treat cups were for party favors to take home instead of enjoying during the cookout, I would have used a ribbon to close the bags. I recommend placing the cellophane bag in the treat cup first to make it easier to fill.

Below are the measurements and the supply lists for both the bag topper and the treat cups.

Bag Topper Measurements

• Tag Topper: 8-1/2" x 6"; scored at 3" (Garden Green Cardstock)
• Scalloped Circle: 3-1/2" x 3-1/2" (Cajun Craze Cardstock) - use the 3-1/16" diameter scalloped circle die
  
• Circle: 3-1/2" x 3-1/2" (Basic White Cardstock) - use the 2-5/8" diameter circle die
  
• Greeting: 1/2" x 1-3/4" (Basic White Cardstock)
  

Treat Cup Measurements

• Treat Cup Base: 5" x 10-1/2"; scored at 2-1/2", 5", 7-1/2", and 10" then rotate 90 degrees and score at 2-1/2" (Garden Green and Cajun Craze Cardstock)
• Scalloped Circle: 2-1/2" x 2-1/2" (Garden Green and Cajun Craze Cardstock) - use the 2-1/4" scalloped circle die
  
• Circle: 2-1/2" x 2-1/2" (Basic White Cardstock) - use the 2-1/8" diameter circle die
  

Supplies

• #152553 Campology Stamp Set
• #102584 Garden Green Cardstock
• #119684 Cajun Craze Cardstock
• #159276 Basic White Cardstock
• #147089 Garden Green Ink Pad
• #147085 Cajun Craze Ink Pad
• #132708 Momento Tuxedo Black Ink Pad
• #154904 Smokey Slate Stampin' Blends Combo Pack
• #154883 Daffodil Delight Stampin' Blends Combo Pack
• #154897 Pumpkin Pie Stampin' Blends Combo Pack
• #110755 Multipurpose Liquid Glue
  
• #118486 Clear Block C
• #118485 Clear Block D
• #118489 Clear Block G
• #118490 Clear Block H
• #104430 Dimensionals
  
• #102300 Bone Folder
• #103579 Paper Snips
• #130148 Grid Paper
• #152392 Paper Trimmer
• #149653 Stampin' Cut & Emboss Machine
• #151770 Layering Circle Dies
• 3-1/4" x 11" Gusseted Cellophane Bags with Twist Ties 
• S'more Snack Mix
  

I hope you enjoyed today's projects and make them for Father's Day or your next get together! If you would like to recreate this treat holders and need some supplies, please, shop my online store HERE. If you have any stamping questions, I am happy to help!

Thanks for stopping by!

Beth

Second Sunday Sketches #38 Starts Today

 

It is time for another Second Sunday Sketches challenge! If you are new to Second Sunday Sketches, please review the rules here or below. Each second Sunday of the month, I will post a card sketch. A sketch is graphic or drawing of how the elements of a card are arranged.

You will then use the sketch as a guide to create your own card. Your card must be a new creation and reflect the challenge guidelines. Your card must include the major elements of the card sketch, such as the number of layers and the general position of the embellishments and/or die cuts. You can rotate the sketch for a top-folding card or for a side-folding card.

You choose the occasion and the color palette as well as the stamp set(s) and the embellishments. I do ask that you use Stampin' Up! products (current or retired).

The measurements will also be included in the blog post for each Second Sunday Sketches sketch challenge. You can use the measurements as given or increase them or decrease them. For example, if a greeting is stamped on a 1" circle on the sketch, but the greeting you choose is 1-3/4", then increase the size of the circle to 1-3/4". You can also change the shape. Instead of a circle, you can use an oval, a square, a daisy punch, a monogram, etc.

The challenge will run from the second Sunday of the month until the last day of that month.

Below is June's card sketch.

Challenge Dates

June's challenge will run from June 12th, 2022 until June 30th, 2022 at 5pm EDT.

If you would like to participate in the Second Sunday Sketches sketch challenge, please create a card using the sketch above and email me a photo of your card by June 30th, 2022 at 5pm EDT with the subject line Second Sunday Sketches Entry.

Prize Drawing

The day after the last day of the month (July 1st), I will place all of the names of the participants in a proverbial hat and randomly draw a winner. The winner will receive a prize (US Residents only)! The prize each month will change and will be announced at the start of each challenge. June's Second Sunday Sketches sketch challenge prize is a surprise embellishment pack from my retired product cache and three hand-made cards from me.

Winner Announcement

If you are the winner, I will notify you by email. Please respond to my email with your complete mailing address, and I will mail you your prize! If the winner does not respond to my email within 7 days, I will draw another winner.

I will also post all of the entries on my blog (with your names attached to the photos) and the name of the winner.

Some Ideas on How to Make this Card Sketch Your Own

There are many ways to change this card to make it your own! You can rotate the card layout 90 degrees, change the oval to another shape like flowers or letters, make a z-fold card with a 2nd z-fold piece along the bottom to look like the horizontal rectangle like my mom suggests, use your favorite designer series paper or stencil as the 1st Mat, use embossing folders to add more texture to a mat layer, and more!

Share Second Sunday Sketches with a Friend

Be sure to join in on the fun and share with a friend! If you enter the Second Sunday Sketches challenge, you can get a bonus surprise prize by sharing this challenge with a friend (for US residents only)! Here's how to get a bonus surprise prize. Limit two bonus surprise prizes per person per month.

1. Enter into this month's Second Sunday Sketches challenge
2. Share this month's Second Sunday Sketches challenge with a friend (that hasn't participated before)
3. Have your friend submit their this month's challenge card entry
4. Email me that your friend has submitted their card entry. Submit your complete mailing address and the name of the friend that you shared with. I will confirm their entry and then send you a bonus surprise prize.

I am looking forward to seeing your personal take on the 38th Second Sunday Sketches sketch challenge! If you have any questions about this card sketch challenge, please let me know! I am happy to assist!

Happy Stamping!
Beth

Sunny Splash Fold Flat Triple Box Card

Today's Fold Flat Triple Box fun fold card features the Sunny Splash stamp set. I was inspired by a triple box card made by fellow demonstrator Heidi Smith. I was so captured by her fun fold that I had to make one right away! I used her imperial measurements to create my own version of her fold flat triple box card. I used the Sunny Splash stamp set from the 2022-2022 Annual Catalog.

This fun fold is deceptively simple! First make three boxes. Then adhere them together! You can see from the photo below that the three boxes are adhered together in a staggered pattern on the right back panels. Adhering them together this way is what enables the card to fold flat for mailing.

By flattening the right back panels, the boxes can be placed into an envelope. The card be "opened" back up after being taken out of the envelope and is ready for display!

 

I added a cardstock panel on the back of the card to write a message. I like adding the message to the back of the card, so that the front of the card can be on display as a decorative element too.

Below are the imperial measurements and supply list for the Fold Flat Triple Box Card.

Measurements

• Boxes (cut 3): 4-1/8" x 8"; scored at 1", 3-3/4", 4-3/4", and 7-1/2" (Mint Macaron Cardstock)
• Smaller Front Panels (cut 2): 2-1/8" x 3-7/8" (Crushed Curry Cardstock)
• Smaller Stamping Panels (cut 2): 1-7/8" x 3-5/8" (Basic White Cardstock)
• Larger Stamping Panels (cut 2): 2-1/4" x 3-5/8" (Basic White Cardstock)
• Larger Panels (cut 2): 2-1/2" x 3-7/8" (Crushed Curry Cardstock)

Supplies

• #158784 Sunny Splash Stamp Set
• #138337 Mint Macaron Cardstock
• #131199 Crushed Curry Cardstock
• #159276 Basic White Cardstock
• #147084 Real Red Ink Pad
• #147086 Pumpkin Pie Ink Pad
• #147095 Granny Apple Green Ink Pad
• #147098 Pacific Point Ink Pad
• #110755 Multipurpose Liquid Glue
  
• #118486 Clear Block C
• #118490 Clear Block H
• #102300 Bone Folder
• #103579 Paper Snips
• #130148 Grid Paper
• #152392 Paper Trimmer

I hope you enjoyed today's Sunny Splash triple box card! I hope you give this fun fold a try! If you need supplies to make this card, please shop my online store HERE. 

Thanks for stopping by!

Beth

Stampin' Cut & Emboss Magnetic Plate Update

It was very exciting to see the Magnetic Plate for the Stampin' Cut & Emboss Machine re-released this year. However, there appears to be a difficulty that is causing the plate layers to separate. Unfortunately, the Magnetic Plate will no longer be available for purchase at this time.

 

Because the quality of the Magnetic Plate does not meet the standard of quality that Stampin' Up! expects, Stampin' Up! is stopping the sale of the Magnetic Plate immediately and placing the development of the Mini Magnetic Plate on hold.

Stampin' Up! is issuing refunds for those that have purchased the relaunched Magnetic Plate to the same method of payment used to purchase the Magnetic Plate. If a demonstrator purchased the Magnetic Plate for you (for example, if you used a check or cash at a workshop), please, contact your demonstrator about receiving a refund.

Stampin' Up! made this announcement today about the relaunch of the Stampin' Cut & Emboss Machine's Magnetic Plates.

 

"As you may know, we’ve been eagerly anticipating the relaunch of the Magnetic Cutting Plate for some time. After redesigning and rigorously testing the plate, we felt that we had a successful model for a relaunch of the product. Unfortunately, we’re now finding that with mass production, a defect in the manufacturing process is causing the plate layers to separate after use. This is not an issue we’ve experienced in the past and we are currently working with our manufacturer to determine its cause.

After extensive additional testing (and fair amount of heartbreak), we’ve determined that the relaunched Magnetic Cutting Plate does not meet the standard of quality that we expect for our products. As a result, we have made the decision to turn this item off (effective immediately) for the foreseeable future. Additionally, we will be putting the development of our Mini Magnetic Cutting Plate on hold.

We stand by our offering of the highest quality products, so if you or your customers purchased the Magnetic Cutting Plate (item 161128), you will be issued a refund within 45 days, regardless of whether you’ve encountered issues with the product. If you ordered the Magnetic Cutting Plate but have not received it yet, you will still receive the product as well as a refund. Please do not contact Demonstrator Support for your refund, as it will be automatically issued to your original form of payment. If you paid for any orders on behalf of your customers, you are responsible for reimbursing those customers.

We share in your disappointment and frustration. Please, do not try to repair or alter defective plates, as they may damage the machine. If you would like to improve the alignment of your open dies and stamps without a Magnetic Cutting Plate, you can use temporary adhesives such as washi tape, masking tape, or Post-it Notes to secure your die and paper together before running them through the machine.

Thank you for your understanding and we apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused."

 

This is heartbreaking news, for sure, but I have confidence in Stampin' Up! and that they are making the best decision about the Magnetic Plate.

 

If you have any questions about the Magnetic Plate update, please, contact me. I am happy to answer your stamping questions!

Beth

NEW: Love This Memory Kit added to the Kits Collection

Get ready for the latest addition to the Kits Collection by Stampin’ Up! The Love This Memory Notebook Kit has everything you need to create a simple and colorful keepsake full of cherished memories. 

 

 

Details

• #160168 Love This Memory Notebook Kit
• $25 USD | $34 CAD
• Available starting 1 June
• Also available in French
• Kit Includes:
• Kit includes one 8-1/2" x 5-1/4" (21.6 x 13.3 cm) kraft notebook
• Includes sticker sheets, washi tape, and printed cards to decorate with
• Includes the exclusive Love This Photopolymer Stamp Set and a Parakeet Party Classic Stampin’ Spot
• Includes Tear & Tape Adhesive to help finish your project
• Coordinating colors: Basic Black, Flirty Flamingo, Mango Melody, Parakeet Party, Pumpkin Pie, Tahitian Tide

 

 

 

This would be a fantastic kit to record summer vacations, camping trips, or even treasured family recipes with journaling from a beloved grandmother, precious grandfather, or a favorite aunt! The possibilities are endless!

 

Check out the NEW Love This Memory Notebook Kit today in my online store HERE and starting creating your memory notebook (link opens in a new window)! I can't wait to see what you create!

Thanks for stopping by!

Beth

The January-June Mini Catalog Last Chance List is now available!

The January–June 2022 Mini Catalog will be retiring soon! It’s always bittersweet to see a classic Stampin’ Up! catalog take a trip to retirement. But, we’re looking forward to all the new products on their way—and we hope you are, too!

Stock up on your favorite products before they’re gone for good! Save up to 50% on essential craft supplies. What are you waiting for? Start shopping! After all, this selection of Last Chance Products is only available while supplies last.

 

Get the Last Chance Product Lists

The Last Chance Product List is available in two formats - PDF and Excel Spreadsheet. The font size on both of the lists is pretty small. I recommend downloading the Excel Spreadsheet, enlarging the text size to a size that you are more comfortable reading, and then printing the list. Use the list to mark what is retiring in your 2022 January-June Mini Catalog.

• Click HERE to download the PDF version of the Last Chance Product List
• Click HERE to download the Excel Spreadsheet version of the Last Chance Product List

 

Get Your Wish List Ready

Download and print out your wish list with my Wish List Printable HERE. Make a list of your favorite retiring products. Then check out my online store to shop your wish list.

Check My Online Store

You can also view the Last Chance Products on my online store HERE. Checking my online store is the fastest way to see if you favorite retiring products are still available.

Last Chance Products Promotion Details

• Each Last Chance Products promotion typically includes a Retiring List (products that will no longer be available once the catalog retires) and a Carryover List (products that will still be available once the catalog retires). For this catalog’s Last Chance Products promotion, a Carryover List will not be provided; carryover products can be viewed in the 2022–2023 Annual Catalog.
• Discounts are not always available with the Retiring List. When they are, they will vary from one market to another depending on product performance.
• All products are available while supplies last, and there are no purchase limits.
• You can start creating your marketing plan right away! Share the list with your customers as soon as you’d like.
• Discounted items can be added to a Starter Kit and redeemed as a 50% off item or with Stampin’ Rewards.
• Only orders opened and closed during the promotion period apply
• Stamp Sets are not guaranteed during this promotion and are while supplies last
• Sales Period
• Starts: 1 June 2022 at 12:00 AM (MT)
• Ends: 30 June 2022 at 11:50 PM (MT)
• Order Deadlines
• Phone: 30 June 2022 at 6:50 PM (MT)
• Online: 30 June 2022 at 11:50 PM (MT)

Retiring products are available while supplies last, so don't delay. Make your wish list and shop today! If you have any questions about the 2022 January-June Mini Catalog Last Chance Product List, please leave a comment below or send me an email. I am happy to help with your stamping questions!

Happy shopping!

Beth

Kits Collection Buy One Get One 50% Off Promotion: Spread the News!

 
For the entire month of June 2022, the Kits Collection will be having a sale! Buy one kit and get the second kit 50% off—this is the perfect time to buy kits for yourself, your friends, and your family! Kits are all-inclusive projects and make great creative gifts.
 

 
This is perfect because a new kit the Love this Memory Notebook Kit (#160168) has just been added the to Kits Collection! Check out my blog post on the Love this Memory Notebook Kit HERE. 

Promotion Details and Ordering information:

• Sale runs through 1–30 June 2022.
• All kits in the Kits Collection by Stampin’ Up! qualify for this sale.
• Kit selection is based on availability.
• You will need at least two kits in your cart for the discount to automatically apply at checkout.
• There are no order limits on this promotion.
• The promotion functions differently on OEX than it does on the customer store. On OEX, the discount will be applied sequentially, i.e., the discount will be applied to every second kit added to your cart. On the customer store, the discount will automatically apply to the most expensive kit in your cart.
• For demonstrators ordering on OEX, kits need to be added to your cart one kit at a time. This will ensure the discount is applied correctly to your order.
• The Nourish & Flourish Kit does not qualify for the BOGO offer.
• Only orders opened and closed during the promotion period apply.

 

There are so many great kits to choose from! I really like the Birthday Candles Kit and the Thanks a Million Kit and the Love this Memory Notebook Kit! Which kits are your favorites? Check out the Kits Collection today in my online store HERE.

Happy Shopping!

Beth

The Winner of the Second Sunday Sketches is...

Pat Arnold! Congratulations, Pat! Pat is the winner of the 37th Second Sunday Sketches card sketch challenge! Your prize, a mystery embellishment pack and 3 handmade cards, will be in the mail on June 3rd, 2022.

What a beautiful friendship card Pat made! I love how she added a layer of Old Olive cardstock underneath the banner and the floral pattern from the Bird Ballad Designer Series Paper! It makes the designer series paper really stand out!

Check out the other entries for the 37th Second Sunday Sketch card challenge. Donna created a gorgeous Christmas card! She used the deer die from the Dashing Deer dies instead of flowers on her Christmas card and added embossing to her banner with the Hammered Metal embossing folder. Donna creates stunning cards! Toni made all three variations on this month's sketch with the Pierced Blooms dies. I love how Toni used three different color palettes for each of her three beautiful birthday cards and made clusters of flowers with jewels in their centers! The recipients of all of these cards will be very lucky to have cards made by such amazing card makers! Well done all! Thank you for participating in May's Second Sunday Sketches!

Want More Second Sunday Sketches? 

The next Second Sunday Sketches card challenge starts on June 12th. The prize will be a mystery embellishment package from my retired product cache and 3 handmade cards from me.

Share Second Sunday Sketches with a Friend

Be sure to join in on the fun and share with a friend! If you enter the Second Sunday Sketches challenge, you can get a bonus surprise prize by sharing this challenge with a friend (for US residents only)! Here's how to get a bonus surprise prize. Limit two bonus surprise prizes per person per month.

1. Enter into June's Second Sunday Sketches challenge
2. Share June's Second Sunday Sketches challenge with a friend
3. Have your friend submit their June's challenge card entry. Email me that your friend has submitted their card entry. Submit your complete mailing address and the name of the friend that you shared with. I will confirm their entry and then send you a bonus surprise prize 1-3 business days after I draw June's winner.

Happy Stamping!
Beth

P.S. Ever wonder how I draw for the Second Sunday Sketches winner? I use an app called Tiny Decisions. I input all of the names of the participants onto the wheel and spin it. The name that the wheel stops on is the winner.

In Remembrance...

Happy Memorial Day! Thank you for all that have served! While you may no longer be with us, your sacrifice is never forgotten. We are forever grateful to you! You live on in our hearts, thoughts, and actions!

 

I miss you, Dad!

Beth

A Little Hello from Me to You

Today's thinking of you card features the leaves image from the Uniquely Artistic stamp set (#158935) in the 2022-2023 Annual Catalog. I created vertical columns of the leaves in four shades of green - Garden Green, Shaded Spruce, Old Olive, and Pear Pizzazz and added a greeting from the Pansy Patch stamp set (#154999). I randomly picked a spot on the cardstock, stamped a leaf image in Old Olive ink, and added another old olive leaves images above and below the first image. Then I filled in the rest of the Basic White cardstock with the other colors of green ink, rotating the stamp as needed to form the vertical columns.

I received the Uniquely Artistic stamp set as a prize for attending OnTour in April. OnTour is a Stampin' Up! demonstrators' event where demonstrators get to preview the catalog before it goes live to customers. It is usually held around April and previews the next Annual Catalog. 

This year OnTour was held virtually on Zoom. Stampin' Up! Staff members and demonstrators shared different cards and projects showcasing the new stamps, papers, and embellishments from the annual catalog. We were also able to meet new demonstrators during our break out networking sessions. It was so much fun to see new stamping products and meet new friends! OnTour is one of our yearly events that I look forward to as a demonstrator!

Below are the measurements and supply list for today's Uniquely Artistic card.

Measurements

Card Base: 8-1/2" x 5-1/2"; scored at 4-1/4" (Garden Green Cardstock)
1st Mat: 4" x 5-1/4" (Basic White Cardstock)
Greeting: (Basic White Cardstock)
Greeting Mat: (Old Olive Cardstock)
Inside Mat: 4" x 5-1/4" (Basic White

Supplies

#158935 Uniquely Artistic Stamp Set
#154999 Pansy Patch Stamp Set
#159276 Basic White Cardstock
#102584 Garden Green Cardstock
#100702 Old Olive Cardstock
#147089 Garden Green Ink Pad
#147090 Old Olive Ink Pad
#147104 Pear Pizzazz Ink Pad
#147089 Shaded Spruce Ink Pad
#104430 Dimensionals
#110755 Multipurpose Liquid Glue
#102300 Bone Folder
#103579 Paper Snips
#130148 Grid Paper
#152392 Paper Trimmer
#118490 Clear Block H
#118488 Clear Block I
#154289 Opal Rounds
 

Does attending demonstrator stamping events like OnTour sound like fun? Have you ever thought about becoming a Stampin' Up! demonstrator? Stampin' Up! is offering a fantastic joining special for new demonstrator who join from May 3rd, 2022 to May 31st, 2022.

 
Join as a new demonstrator from May 3-31, 2022 for $99 USD and receive $125 USD in products in your Starter Kit plus $66.50 USD in 2022-2024 InColor product - InColor Grid Paper, InColor Ink Pad Collection, InColor Cardstock Collection Sampler Pack, and InColor Designer Series Paper Pack free!
 

Promotion Details
In Color Starter Kit 

• New demonstrators can select any standard eligible Stampin’ Up! products up to the $125 USD │ $165 CAD value for just $99 USD │ $135 CAD. 

• The Starter Kit includes business resources like catalogues, brochures, order forms, and postcards.

• The Starter Kit also includes $66.50 USD │ $91.25 CAD of FREE 2022–2024 In Color products: In Color Grid Paper (more information on this item will be provided 3 May), In Color Ink PadCollection, In Color CardstockCollection, and In Color 6" x 6" (15.2 x 15.2 cm) Designer Series PaperAssortments. 

• New team members who join Stampin’ Up! get to be a part of our amazing community of crafters. Plus, they get to enjoy sharing simple and fun crafting experiences with others, early access to products, and exclusive access to training events.

• You’ll also get a free Paper Pumpkin kit! 

Additional Details

• New demonstrators who submit their Independent Demonstrator Agreement (IDA) before 3 May or after 31 May will not be eligible for this promotion.
• Refer to the Demonstrator Policies document for more information on new team member policies.
• New team members may not use their team leader’s shipping address to ship their kit.
  
• New team members may only pay for their kit using a credit card on which they are listed as an authorized user.
  
•  Team leaders should verify that new team members are using their own Social Security Number (US) or Social Insurance Number (CA).
• Failure to adhere to these rules will likely delay or invalidate your new team members’ sign-up process. 

 

• Download the InColor Starter Kit PDF Flyer HERE.

 

I hope you enjoyed today's Uniquely Artistic thinking of you card! If you want to recreate this card need some of the stamping supplies, please call me or shop my online store to place an order.
 

If you have any questions about today's card, stamping in general, or about the InColor Starter Kit promotion, please, email me! I would like to help you with your stamping questions and for you to join my demonstrator team!
 

Thanks for stopping by!
Beth

Sending Healing Thoughts with Nature's Harvest Bundle

Sympathy cards are one of the most challenging cards for me. The loss of a loved one is often one of the most heart breaking times in our lives. I do not want to make light of the situation or cause any further grief, but I want to show how much I care for and support the person who is grieving.

Card decorations and choosing a color palette is difficult for me when designing a card for the loss of a loved one. I feel it should be simple in decoration but tasteful and respectful.

I chose a simple color palette of blues and white to convey a feeling of peace and restfulness and was furthered by the Nature's Harvest greeting stamp.

Below are the measurements and supplies to recreate this Nature's Harvest sympathy card.

 

Measurements

• Card Base: 8-1/2" x 5-1/2"; scored at 4-1/4" (Balmy Blue Cardstock)
• 1st Mat: 3" x 3-3/4" (Night of Navy Cardstock)
• 2nd Mat: 2-3/4" x 3-1/2" (Basic White Cardstock)
• Greeting: 1" x 4-1/2" (Balmy Blue Cardstock)
• Inside Mat: 4" x 5-1/4" (Basic White Cardstock)

 

Supplies

• #156495 Nature's Harvest Stamp Set 
• #156813 Nature's Harvest Bundle
  
• #159276 Basic White Cardstock 
• #146982 Balmy Blue Cardstock
• #100867 Night of Navy Cardstock
• #147110 Night of Navy Ink Pad
  
• #104430 Dimensionals
• #144108 Mini Dimensionals
• #110755 Multipurpose Liquid Glue
• #102300 Bone Folder
• #103579 Paper Snips
• #130148 Grid Paper
• #152392 Paper Trimmer
• #149653 Stampin' Cut & Emboss Machine
• #156504 Harvest Dies
• #117147 Clear Block B
• #118484 Clear Block E
• #118490 Clear Block H
  

 

Are sympathy cards difficult for you to make as well? I would love to hear from you about how you make cards for sympathy and the loss of loved ones. Leave me a comment below with your sympathy and loss card ideas.

If you would like to purchase the supplies used for today's card, please call me to place an order or you can shop my online store (link opens in a new window). If you have any questions about today's card, please let me know. I am happy to assist you!

Thanks for stopping by!

Beth

Happy 3rd Anniversary! Second Sunday Sketches #37 Starts Today!

It is time for another Second Sunday Sketches challenge! If you are new to Second Sunday Sketches, please review the rules here or below. Each second Sunday of the month, I will post a card sketch. A sketch is graphic or drawing of how the elements of a card are arranged.

You will then use the sketch as a guide to create your own card. Your card must be a new creation and reflect the challenge guidelines. Your card must include the major elements of the card sketch, such as the number of layers and the general position of the embellishments and/or die cuts. You can rotate the sketch for a top-folding card or for a side-folding card.

You choose the occasion and the color palette as well as the stamp set(s) and the embellishments. I do ask that you use Stampin' Up! products (current or retired).

The measurements will also be included in the blog post for each Second Sunday Sketches sketch challenge. You can use the measurements as given or increase them or decrease them. For example, if a greeting is stamped on a 1" circle on the sketch, but the greeting you choose is 1-3/4", then increase the size of the circle to 1-3/4". You can also change the shape. Instead of a circle, you can use an oval, a square, a daisy punch, a monogram, etc.

The challenge will run from the second Sunday of the month until the last day of that month. 

 

Card Sketch

Happy 3rd Anniversary! May 2022 marks 3 years of Second Sunday Sketches. Thank you so much for being a part of our card sketch challenge! In celebration of Second Sunday Sketches' 3rd Anniversary, I created 3 variations of the same card sketch. Below is May's card sketch.

(click the graphic above to make the sketches larger)

Challenge Dates

May's challenge will run from May 8th, 2022 until May 31st, 2022 at 5pm EDT.

If you would like to participate in the 3rd Anniversary Second Sunday Sketches sketch challenge, please, create one, two, or three cards using one, two, or all three of the sketches above and email me a photo of your cards by May 31st, 2022 at 5pm EDT with the subject line Second Sunday Sketches Entry. 

 

For the month of May and our 3rd Anniversary, you can create up to 3 card entries. You can use any or all of the 3 card sketches for May when creating your card entries. Each card entry counts as 1 card entry. If you create 1 card, you receive 1 entry. If you create 2 cards, you receive 2 card entries. If you create 3 cards, you receive 3 entries.

Prize Drawing

The day after the last day of the month (June 1st), I will place all of the names of the participants in a proverbial hat and randomly draw a winner. The winner will receive a prize (US Residents only)! The prize each month will change and will be announced at the start of each challenge. May's Second Sunday Sketches sketch challenge prize is a surprise embellishment pack from my retired product cache and three hand-made cards from me.

 

 

Winner Announcement

If you are the winner, I will notify you by email. Please respond to my email with your complete mailing address, and I will mail you your prize! If the winner does not respond to my email within 7 days, I will draw another winner.

I will also post all of the entries on my blog (with your names attached to the photos) and the name of the winner.

Some Ideas on How to Make this Card Sketch Your Own

There are many ways to change this card to make it your own! You can rotate the card layout 90 degrees, change the flowers to another shape like jewels or bows, emboss the banner with an embossing folder or embossing powder, make the circle element into a shaker card or a window, and more!

Share Second Sunday Sketches with a Friend

Be sure to join in on the fun and share with a friend! If you enter the Second Sunday Sketches challenge, you can get a bonus surprise prize by sharing this challenge with a friend (for US residents only)! Here's how to get a bonus surprise prize. Limit two bonus surprise prizes per person per month.

1. Enter into this month's Second Sunday Sketches challenge
2. Share this month's Second Sunday Sketches challenge with a friend (that hasn't participated before)
3. Have your friend submit their this month's challenge card entry
4. Email me that your friend has submitted their card entry. Submit your complete mailing address and the name of the friend that you shared with. I will confirm their entry and then send you a bonus surprise prize.

I am looking forward to seeing your personal take on the 37th Second Sunday Sketches sketch challenge! If you have any questions about this card sketch challenge, please let me know! I am happy to assist!

Happy Stamping!
Beth

The Winner of the Second Sunday Sketches #36 is...

Donna Foreman! Congratulations, Donna! Donna is the winner of the 36th Second Sunday Sketches card sketch challenge! Your prize, a mystery embellishment pack from my retired product cache and 3 handmade cards, will be in the mail on May 3rd.

I love how Donna created a wreath with the Forever Fern stamps and foil die cuts! The color palette of greens and golds is stunning! What a beautiful birthday card, Donna!

Check out the other entries for the 36th Second Sunday Sketch card challenge. Toni create a gorgeous wreath with the stitched petal dies with a background of Misty Moonlight wood grain designer series paper. The jewels give the wreath extra sparkle! Well done everyone!

Want More Second Sunday Sketches? 

The next Second Sunday Sketches card challenge starts on May 8th, 2022 and will be an extra special challenge! Second Sunday Sketches is turning 3! You won't want to miss May's challenge! I can't wait to share May's card sketch with you! 

 

The prize will be a mystery embellishment package from my retired product cache and 3 handmade cards from me.

Share Second Sunday Sketches with a Friend

Be sure to join in on the fun and share with a friend! If you enter the Second Sunday Sketches challenge, you can get a bonus surprise prize by sharing this challenge with a friend (for US residents only)! Here's how to get a bonus surprise prize. Limit two bonus surprise prizes per person per month.

1. Enter into May's Second Sunday Sketches challenge
2. Share May's Second Sunday Sketches challenge with a friend
3. Have your friend submit their May's challenge card entry. Email me that your friend has submitted their card entry. Submit your complete mailing address and the name of the friend that you shared with. I will confirm their entry and then send you a bonus surprise prize 1-3 business days after I draw May's winner.

Happy Stamping!
Beth

P.S. Ever wonder how I draw for the Second Sunday Sketches winner? I use an app called Tiny Decisions. I input all of the names of the participants onto the wheel and spin it. The name that the wheel stops on is the winner.