Ink & Paper Cafe'

Sneak Peek ~ Spring Soiree'

Spring Soiree' is coming up FAST!!!  Have you registered yet?  Each attendee will be getting lots of great products, so I MUST have all registrations noted by FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17th (3pm).  Please don't wait until next week to ask about attending because I simply won't have the supplies needed to accommodate late requests.  You'll be glad you attended! 

Here's a sneak peek at SOME of the projects.  Ready???

Can you imagine...a FABULOUS Card Organizer???

And some cards to go IN the Organizer????

    

And inspiring artwork???????  Again, this is just a glimpse.  I hope you'll join me...there are only a few spaces left so HURRY!!!!

See you soon, Stamping Friends!
Tara

Big Stamping Weekend!

While at Leadership last week in San Antonio, I made just one of the make-n-takes that they gave us and already shared that with you.  Instead of letting my make-n-take packets gather dust (this is a fairly new goal of mine) I made the projects on Saturday.  To my surprise when I was laying out all of the goodies we got at Leadership...I found another make-n-take packet!  So, I'm not yet complete but it's close enough to share all of the serious bounty we brought home.

There are two stamp sets that I've included in this photo, but they are covered for a reason - they will be in the NEW Stampin' Up! Catalog available on June 1st.  Yes!!!!  You heard me right...JUNE 1st!!!!  This means that the current Idea Book & Catalog will expire on May 31st.  I am SO excited for the catalog changes coming our way and am looking forward to sharing it all with you!!

As you can see, we got SO many goodies.  Don't you love the fabric bag and notepad holder??  This is a sneak peek at some new Designer Fabric that will be in the NEW Stampin' Up! Catalog. 

I'll be presenting each of the make-n-takes over the next week or so.  Below is the first share.

The theme for this Leadership was "My Way".  I did modify several of the make-n-takes and this is one of them.  I changed up the middle flower on this card to include the Lucky Limeade color instead of the Baja Breeze flower that was on the sample.  What a great card this is!  

As I mentioned during the last post, we received a package of the Blossom Builders, Designer Printed Kit. There are SO many flowers in this kit and I was able to modify several of the projects by using different, or more, flowers.  Love it! 

Most of the items used here are from the Occasions Mini Catalog:  Loving Thoughts and Mixed Bunch stamp sets; Blossom Builders Designer Printed Kit; Lucky Limeade Baker's Twine.  The other products used:  Brights Designer Buttons (FREE during Sale-a-Bration!!!); Scallop Edge Border Punch; Very Vanilla and Lucky Limeade Cardstock; Lucky Limeade, Rich Razzleberry and Soft Suede Inks; On Board Merry Medley; Dimensionals; Mini Glue Dots

Enjoy perusing...and have a wonderful day!

Christmas Treat for Megan

Each year with my step-family, we draw names (there are A LOT of us) for Christmas gift-giving.  This year we combined the kids with the adults - those kids are all growing up so there aren't as many of them anymore!  The beauty of this is I got lucky and drew Megan's name.  Megan is my cousin's daughter and she's a young "tween".  I LOVE buying for girls, especially a young lady of this age.  It's FUN!

I used one of our Stampin' Card Keepers (these are AVAILABLE UNTIL JANUARY 3rd ONLY!!!!) and decorated it in the same fashion that we did for the "Pimp My Card Box" Class earlier this winter.  I chose the Flirtatious Designer Fabric and Designer Paper for her box and created special tags for the front (Megan, Mine!!!, Private, Stuff) so she can switch it up once in awhile.  Inside I put a requested gift card plus some other goodies that I hope she enjoys.

The flower on top was created using the Big Shot, Flower Folds Die, and the Fun Flowers Die.  Some layers are Designer Paper and some are the Fabric.  For the fabric layers, I spritzed them with spray starch, crumpled them up, spread them back out (loosely) and let dry.  You can speed up the process by using your Heat Tool.  Attach the whole flower to the top using hot glue. 

I hope that Megan finds a nice use for this box - I truly enjoyed making this for her.
Chat soon!

Chunky Frame - Clearance Rack

Today I'm sharing the gift I made for the gift-exchange with my Ink, Inc. Team Holiday Event that was held this past Sunday. It's "white elephant" style with numbers, stealing and total fun! Kim Bacon, one of my team members, picked this, lost it, then got it back later. :-)

I'd noticed this Chunky Frame when it was featured in the Decor Elements catalog (Decor Elements items are now included in the Idea Book & Catalog beginning on page 227) but had never actually seen one. Honestly, the price point of $19.95 was a bit steep for any project that I might offer in class form so I didn't purchase any.

Now...they are on the Clearance Rack for only $7.99 when you order through my site: www.tarabazata.stampinup.net! And "Oh My Goodness"!!! These are WONDERFUL frames! They are large (12x12") with a 4x4" square opening, plus the frame is thick, so it works great as a shadow-box frame (although the glass is in back, not in the front like a true shadow-box frame). Are you signing up for my NEW Spring Soiree' (replaces Stamp Camp)?? If so, you'll get to make a delightful project featuring this frame. I just snapped up a bunch of these, so hurry...before they are gone!

The quality of the frame is top-notch. It's heavier...not the light balsa wood that many "crafty" frames are made from. It comes white (made from MDF, not PDF as noted in description...that made me chuckle), ready to be decorated.

Here, I used my handy-dandy stencil paste (haven't used this in months!) along with the Kind Thoughts Brocade Stencil. I made a lollie with lots of dimension using the NEW (Sneak Peek!) Twitterpated Designer Paper from the Occasions Mini Catalog plus other coordinating cardstocks and Pear Pizzazz Seam Binding Ribbon. To make all of the pleats, I used Simply Scored...simply a remarkable tool! I did hot-glue the layers together so they would be 100% secure. I removed the glass and placed it inside the back part of the frame in case the recipient ever wants to change out the image inside the frame.

I thoroughly enjoyed "creating" and plan on making more frames for Christmas gifts.

*** My December Sale ***

Make any e-mail/phone call purchase from now until December 31st (until 3pm) and receive the following:

• $1-$49.99 = 10% Discount on your order!!! This will be given to you immediately (that's why this is called/e-mailed in)
• $50+ - 10% Discount PLUS Free Shipping! So you'll save 20%!!!

Tell your hubby, mom, sister, dad, etc. about this special for your Wish List. You may order up through December 15th for Christmas delivery (shipping will likely be even quicker for those states around Utah, but no guarantees). Call me today!

Note: Clearance Rack and Digital Downloads may not be purchased with this special as these are online-purchases only.

*** SPECTACULAR SIGN-UP SPECIAL ***

Okay...here is the SPECIAL DEAL!! The Sale-a-Bration sign-up special is FANTABULOUS!

• $125 Starter Kit (vs. $175 regularly) - total value of OVER $345!
• Choice of Designer Paper Pack OR Digital Download for EACH MONTH OF 2012!!!! FREEEE!!!!!
  You choose each month and it's totally free!

Now, this sign-up special officially begins on January 24th (when Sale-a-Bration begins), but they are offering those who are attending Leadership in January (I'm going to San Antonio!) this special for new demonstrators on DECEMBER 13th and 14th ONLY.

You may sign up via my website: http://www.tarabazata.stampinup.net and click on the Join the Fun button. When you sign up on December 13th and 14th, I'll send you an package of card samples to use as ideas and/or share with others. Plus, you'll have access to our Team Site and lots of fun events for demonstrators only ~ not to mention all the perks Stampin' Up! provides its demonstrator family. This is a great time to join Ink, Inc. Team!!!

 

Happy October!!!!

Fall is definitely in the air ~ although it is still quite warm here in Colorado, the air has a crispness to it that only autumn holds.  I love this weather!! 

October has brought some new changes for me, as well.  I've left my previous job and am starting a new one that will allow me more time in my Stamping Studio.  This change is good for so many reasons and the sense of relief I have is immense.  Whew!!!

Did you see the AMAZING sign-up special???!!????  When you join my team, you may choose between a FREE BIG SHOT or $100 in FREE PRODUCT (your choice!)!!!  WOW!!!!  This special expires October 31st...so don't wait!!!  Come check it out!!  You are invited to attend our next Team Gathering (Sunday, October 9th from 2-4pm) - simply RSVP by Wednesday, October 12th.  You may attend as my guest (FREE for you) - contact me and visit my website (www.tarabazata.stampinup.net) for more info.

Would you like to see one of the projects we made at the 15th Annual Holiday Stamp Camp??  I LOVE this event - it takes a fair amount of planning, but it's worth it!  Stamp Camp is held twice a year (February/March and September)...don't miss the next one!

 

This is such a GREAT Christmas Decoration - you could modify this for any season...and it's inexpensive to make when you utilize coupons.  Here are the details:

• Purchase a DecoBlock found at hobby stores - I suggest the original "hobby" store as they have everything else needed - one stop shopping.  Remove the label using your Heat Tool (100005 $29.95) then clean off residue.  Use a 50% Off Coupon for this item.
• Place your favorite Decor Element image on the front.  We used the Small, Jingle All the Way image (114707  $3.50).  These go on SO smoothly!
• Unravel the 20-ct. Lights - use the white corded variety - only found at the original "hobby" store ($2-$3 per strand).  Place the block face-up on the table and put the lights inside the block, spreading them around (they'll want to bunch up).
• Stuff the inside with Twinkle Tinsel (comes in a package - used one package per block) - $2-$3 per package (use a coupon!), on top of the lights.  The goal is to cover the lights so they don't detract from the Decor Elements on the front.  I used a skewer to move the items around.
• Seal the bottom using the stopper.  You'll likely have to cut a slit in the stopper (with the Craft & Rubber Scissors) to allow room for the cord (there is a hole there, but no way to get the lights into the stopper without cutting it).
• I purchased 'boughs" of greenery and cut them apart using my Craft & Rubber Scissors.  I wrapped two together using a rubber band (the greenery falls apart without the rubber band) and hot-glued it to the top of the block - be generous!  NOTE: the hot glue will "melt" some greenery, so be careful when adding more glue.  Adjust the greenery as desired (mine was wired, so allowed flexibility).  Yep, use another coupon.
• Create loops of ribbon to make a fancy bow from Soft Suede 1 1/4" Striped Grosgrain (125060  $9.95 for 10 yards - 1 yard per block).  Tie off the center using Real Red Satin Ribbon (117286  $8.95 for 15 yards) and adjust the "legs" of the ribbon as desired.
• Thread 3 red jingle-bells (found at the same store) onto White Baker's Twine (124262  $2.95 for 25 yards) and tie into tight knot.  Wrap around center of ribbon-bow and tie into a knot in the back.  Hot glue onto the top, covering up the glued part of the greenery.

Voila!!  Each block takes about 30 minutes to make if you're taking your time.  Don't you love it??!!?

 

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

Admittedly, I'm not a huge fan of Halloween (for no particular reason - just never been one of my faves), but I did fall in love with these adorable pumpkins with some sassy bling on them.  And they were SO easy to make!  I saw them at Convention this summer and FINALLY located some white pumpkins (they are not real...didn't want to throw them out once they got rotten) - the stores kept selling out of them but I scored some a few weeks ago.  I think they are charming!

I used the Spooky Things Decor Elements along with Raven Lace Trim and Black Flourish Designer Jewels to complete the pumpkins.  The Designer Jewels are awesome!  There is a transfer sheet included that sticks to the jewels enough to keep them in place (they are attached with a string of adhesive) so their shape is maintained.  Pretty cool!  These pumpkins used 2 sets of the jewels - a complete one on the middle pumpkin and the other one broken up into a few pieces on the smaller pumpkins.  These are easily used individually, too.  Simply use a Hobby Blade to cut the adhesive string in between the jewels (that's how I broke up the swirls for the smaller pumpkins). 

Hope you enjoy your autumn day and evening!  I am looking forward to the kids coming around so I can pass out candy.  That's the best part!

     

Save the Date!

It's easy to do, and count down to something fun, with the Date Keeper Calendar by Stampin' Up!  Each guest decorated one at my 14th Annual Holiday Stamp Camp a couple of weeks ago.  This one is simply designed with a countdown to Christmas.  The window is ripe for any number of ideas: a photo, month name (use the numbers as the day of the month), special occasion, mini scrapbook page, 3-D items...you name it!  This calendar is well made from MDF and is matte black - perfect for nearly any decor.  Check it out in the Definitely Decorative Catalog.

     

I did work in the colors that are part of the slider-sections into the design.  They are Old Olive, Bashful Blue and Daffodil Delight.  Add some dimension (of COURSE!), bling (ABSOLUTELY!), and you've got a charming countdown calendar.  The stamp set is Season of Joy...it's been around for awhile but I still love this set.

Speaking of countdowns...it's Doug's birthday!  We are both taking the day off from work, NOT rushing through the morning, and having Kwal come out to help us choose paint for the outside of the house (Doug's business, AVID Construction, does home construction, painting, etc.).  Wonder if they have their colors labeled by something I'll recognize, like: Always Artichoke, Soft Suede, Crumb Cake...  Ü  They should!!  Then onto some babyback ribs for dinner and the whole family at home...fabulous!  Have a great day, Everyone!

Two Saturday's in a Row????

Yesterday was HEAVENLY...I slept in until 10am.  Before you think I am just a lazy git, I have been working a lot of hours at my on-call job over the past few weeks - plus I have several months ahead of a VERY full work schedule AND a busy time with my stampin'.  Apparently, I needed the sleep.  It was DELIGHTFUL!  Today I'm looking forward to another stress-free morning, then onto fun stuff in my stamp room. 

Doug and Connor are headed to SLC to pick up my dad and Pam's old car for Connor to drive (I think it's 20 years old, but it has less than 80K miles on it!), so Devin, Seth and I are on our own for two days.  We'll likely hit up a movie then enjoy a meal out with my sister.  Within that time, I'll be finishing up the video of my stamp-room-clean-up...I can't wait to share that with you!!  Plus lots of other catch-up things on my list.  I'm looking forward to the long weekend and hope you are also having a great time.  BBQ your hearts out!!

Have YOU posted your favorite NEW Holiday Mini Catalog item?  Be sure to cast your vote by commenting directly only my blog under the September 1st post. Click here for all of the details!!

I'm excited to show you this fun shadowbox project.  I demo'd this at a recent home-party and it features the Flower Garden Definitely Decorative Decor Elements.  I've paired this with some Designer Series Paper (now retired) and Pink Satin Ribbon.  I purchased the frame at a dollar store - this is a super easy project that would be DARLING in a little girl's room. 

I hope you feel inspired to play with more of the Decor Elements line.  I actually prefer using them on non-wall projects.  Click on my Definitely Decorative link to see more ideas using Decor Elements.

 

Have a wonderful day!!!  May your long weekend be filled with Saturdays.  Ü

Yeah, Stampin' Up!!

Check out these wonderful Color Renovation Color Kits - these are perfect for those that already have the Stampin' Write Markers, Watercolor Crayons, Stampin' Pastels, Ink Pads or Cardstocks.  Purchasing these kits saves you money and allows you to get started right away with the new colors.  Fabulous!

 

Download ColorRenovationKits_0610_US

Calling all past demonstrators!  This special has never been offered before!  For only $35, you may become part of the Stampin' Up! family once again.  If you are still in touch with your previous upline, do give her (or him!) a call - if you don't have anyone you'd like to work with or you were once part of my team - I'd love to chat with you personally.

Stampin' Up! has made so many fabulous changes over the years and the product line truly is - hands-down - the very best.  Being the leader of our team Ink, Inc. is a top priority and I will glad help anyone who wants my assistance.  I've been a demonstrator for over 13 years and I'm not going anywhere!

Important Details

• Offer good through July 31st only
• All applications must be sent in the mail and must be received by July 31st
• Any previous demonstrator who resigned on or before March 31st qualifies
• $35 Kit includes business supplies (no product) with the option of adding additional supplies at a reduced price
• $35 Rejoin_Kit 
  Application  (with my info filled in)
  Application  (blank)
  Independent_Agreement
  

What are some of the benefits?
Free stamps * Discounts * Bonuses * Income * Pre-order Opportunities * Product and Gift Rewards * Incentive Trips * Leadership Trips * Friends * Part of a Family * Camaraderie * Training * Demonstrator Website * Monthly Magazine with Tips & Ideas * Stampin' Connection (demo-only forum for business and creative ideas) * Self-Esteem * Involved Upline Who Cares * GREAT Therapy!!

One of my biggest blessings are all of the friends I've made over these 13+ years.  Oh...my...goodness.  I cannot EVEN express what these ladies mean to me.  We are there for each other: laugh, cry, hug, grumble, whine, learn, and back each other up.  I love my stamping family.  Below is a gift that Susan Conti made for me a couple of weeks ago.  It's beautiful! 

  

This features our Chunky Frame (Decor Elements Catalog); Stencil Paste (see previous posts on more ideas); Elegant Trio Stencils; Bashful Blue, Basic Black, and Basic Gray Cardstocks; Black Satin Ribbon; Silver Brad; Basic Gray Ink; Greeting of choice; and Distressing Kit

Hobby Demonstrator; Need-some-extra-money Demonstrator; Seasonal Demonstrator; Career Demonstrator...EVERYONE is welcome on my team!

I hope to chat with you soon ~ either because of this special, to book your own fabulously-fun workshop, to attend a class, or just to say "hi!".  Have a wonderful day!

Swap Contest Entry

Check out this gorgeous card from Holle Wiktorek.  This is one of the cards entered into the contest at our annual Stamposium event.  It features a lovely assortment of items from the upcoming Summer Mini Catalog (available May 1st!).  I love this card!

Items Used:  Pretty in Pink, Soft Suede & Very Vanilla Cardstocks; In a Word, Elements of Style, and All A'Flutter stamps; Gold Encore and Soft Suede inks; Modern Label Punch; Little Leaves and Matchbox dies; Big Shot; Mostly Vintage Decor Stencils; Smooch Spray: Log Cabin & Gold Glow; Dimensionals