Ink & Paper Cafe'

My Digital Studio...FREEEEEEEE for 30 Days!!

Don't you just love "try it before you buy it!" deals???  Well, Stampin' Up! has introduced My Digital Studio FREE!!!  You will have 30 days to use the fully functional software.  After that time, you may purchase your own "forever copy" through me.  Cool!!!  BTW, this is an ongoing offer...ready to check it out???

The sample above was created by Amber Meadows on My Digital Studio.  I just love this program!!!  It's so intuitive and the images are wonderful.  As with all Stampin' Up! products, the coordination cannot be beat.

This card was created by Cindy Schuster.  I love the look of brayering - this is all done with My Digital Studio!!  The planner below was created by Brenda Marshall - a member of my Ink, Inc. Team.  Great job, Brenda!!!!

Have you checked out hybrid-digital projects?  It's where you start with a digitally produced piece and add your own embellishments to it.  This creates texture and dimension.  It's lovely!  The project shown here is from Leadership.  I need to purchase a frame for it (will show more details on this project once I get that done), but you can see how the texture really stands out from the digital piece. 

How do you get it?
You can download the software and access the free trial just as you would a Stampin' Up! digital download by downloading it through my website's Online Store:  www.tarabazata.stampinup.net. 

What do you do once you try it and like it?
Once the 30-day free trial period is over, you can purchase the downloadable or disc version of the software to continue using it. You'll simply open up the trial version you already have on your computer, and will be prompted to enter the product registration key you received after purchasing the software. (You'll receive this key via e-mail if you purchase the downloadable version, and you'll find it along with your shipped software if you purchase the disc version.). It's that simple. And I promoise you'll love it!!!

Here's a BONUS to all who purchase the software from me (including those who already have the software from me - but you must e-mail me to request a copy of the video)...a how-to video walking you step by step through creating a project.  I'll use images from the full version of the software - no extra downloads will be needed.  That being said, the downloads are SO affordable - you'll want a lot!  The great thing is you can order them anytime via my Online Store and there is no shipping charged.  The downloads come directly to you once you hit "go" on the order.  Remember, you may combine the downloads with any other product (non digital items will require shipping) on your Online Orders - get to $50 subtotal and you'll receive a FREE SALE-A-BRATION item on ALL orders placed before March 31st!!

Check out my own album here:

The BONUS video will be available by the end of the month.  Feel free to call me with any questions, too.  I'm always happy to help you out with any of your Stampin' Up! needs. 

Cookie-ing Up Some Sweets

I've been a bit quiet on the blogging front but it's been anything but quiet around our home! Between family, work, more work, holiday events and day-to-day activies, my days are too short. Last Christmas, I asked Santa for more hours in the day. Clearly he couldn't pull that one off (either that or I was particularly naughty)!

I've spent the last few days STAMPING MY HEART OUT! And I've enjoyed every minute, too. What a treat! I finished up two sets of swaps, the m-n-t project for my Holiday Team Event (being held today!), the gift exchange project, and COOKIES plus great packaging for those cookies!

I've been wanting to show you these for awhile so I baked up a batch last night and this morning. These are great cookies! Doug made the first batch to help me out with the Holiday Stamp Camp back in September. We used the Sweet Pressed Cookie Stamps and they work so well.

I did some experimenting to see what worked best and determined that it depends on the type of cookie you're making. I used the Sugared Shortbread recipe - the Cookie Press Stamps come with two recipes (Sugar Cookies are the other) and here are my results:

The first image shows the cookie made per instructions: press the cookie BEFORE baking. I tried this with slightly chilled dough (about 1 hour) and overnight chilling and saw NO difference in the impression.

I'd heard about pressing the cookies immediately AFTER baking, so I gave this a try, too.  Note: since the Shortbread recipe has A LOT of butter (Paula Dean would be so proud!), it kind of oozes when pressed.  Although they taste fabulous, they look a bit anemic.  This technique would work much better with the Sugar Cookie recipe since it has less butter (per dry ingredients). 

Now that we have cookies, we need a beautiful package!  Insert the Kraft Boxes.  Stampin' Up! does an AMAZING job of coordinating products.  I have never worked with any other company who is so forward-thinking in this way.  Speaking of working with Stampin' Up!, I have a SUPER SPECIAL for you - see the end of this post for all of the details.

First, I used the Starburst Jumbo Wheel in Crumb Cake all over the box.  Then I made a band using Early Espresso Cardstock, Letters to Santa Designer Series Paper, and (Sneak Peek!!) the NEW & UPCOMING Pleated Ribbon (Pear Pizzazz is used here - from the 2012 Occasions Mini Catalog) - it's pre-pleated!!!!!  I created perfect score lines with the Simply Scored (my go-to tool for scoring paper/cardstock) and anchored the ends together using Sticky Strip - this ensures it won't fall apart. 

The emblem uses the Sweet Season stamp set and a bit of bling with Basic Rhinestones.  Don't forget to add Dimenionals for that finished look, plus it helps to add some space behind items that go over thicker layers (such as the pleated ribbon).

        

Give this as-is or insert a gift card for an extra treat.  Voila'!  A perfect holiday treat!

*** 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!!!

Stay tuned for more ideas coming your way - hope to see you soon!

 

Scallop Trim Border and Pinking Hearts Border Punches + Corners

I've had several requests for these measurements, so thought I'd post them here for all to see.  Thank you to Gretchen for sharing these measurements for both of these punches.  PLEASE NOTE: the measurements differ for each punch.

For both Border Punch designs, the EXACT measurement is important.  In some cases, we are working with 1/16" measurements, so I recommend using our 12" Paper Cutter (104152  $24.95), as the measurements are clear and easy to read.  Onto the details...

Scallop Trim Border Punch + Corner

Here are the measurements for the STARTING SIZE of the cardstock.  Remember, be precise with your measuring.  If you'd like to make a rectangle, use two measurements. 

• 4 3/4" makes a square that has 10 scallops along each side
• 4 1/4" makes a square that has 9 scallops on each side
• 3 13/16" (just a hair bigger than 3 3/4") makes a square that has 8 scallops along each side. This is the size that fits perfectly into the guide that is printed on the Scallop Trim Border Punch and therefore makes this a great size to practice on. Once you get this size down, it will be easier to branch-off and make your squares smaller or larger.
• 3 1/4" makes a square than has 7 scallops along each side
• 2 7/8" makes a square that has 6 scallops on each side
• 2 3/8" makes a square that has 5 scallops on each side
• And then, the original smallest square that I described above begins with a square that is 1 15/16" and uses only the corner punch

      

Punching Process

• Punch the corners first - use the Paper Guide on the front for your first corner to get an idea on placement of the cardstock in the punch.  When you turn it over, you'll see that there is a SLIGHT gap between the blade and the cardstock.  Maintain this gap on each corner so your edges are straight and the scallops line up all the way across the cardstock.

      

• Once the 4 corners are punched, punch the straight edges using the corner guides on the front as your placement guide. 

          

• For pieces that are longer than the guides, you'll start off using the corner guide on the front, then turn the punch over so you're looking at it from the bottom.  It's VERY important to line up the edge of the cardstock evenly along the bottom, leaving the same slight gap between the blade and the cardstock as you did when punching the corners.  This will ensure a straight edge and complete scallops.

 

• Practice a few times on scrap cardstock (use cardstock, not regular paper) - you'll get a feel for it quickly.

 

Of course there are more measurements that will work beyond those listed here - double the measurements to make larger pieces (scrapbook pages, for example). 

Pinking Hearts Border Punch + Corner

Here are the measurements for the STARTING SIZE of the cardstock. Remember, be precise with your measuring. If you'd like to make a rectangle, use two measurements.

• 2 7/8"
• 3 1/4"
• 3 5/8"
• 4"
• 4 3/8"
• 4 3/4"

To make larger sizes, simply increase by 3/8".  When viewing from the bottom side of the punch, line up the points, not the hearts. 

I hope this helps use the punches more effectively.  Check out this Stampin' Up! video for even more info and an additional way to use the corners with the borders.  Have a wonderful day!

 

Friendship Snowflakes

More Snowflakes!!  I got the idea for this card from my sweet friend, Kimberly.  I changed up the colors and actually made this sample using Whisper White Cardstock along with Watercolor Paper.  However, what I offered at my class was Naturals White along with the Watercolor Paper.  I like that combination much better - the tones of white are more of a match.

This card uses the Northern Trim Letterpress for the Big Shot.  It was featured in the Holiday Mini Catalog.  While that catalog has expired, this Letterpress Plate is still available!  Watercolor Paper works the best with the Letterpress Plates - it's thicker which results in the best impression.  You may also choose to use our Confetti or Naturals Cardstocks.  I do not recommend Very Vanilla or Whisper White - it's too thin for this method. 

     

Check out this video - the Letterpress plates are easy to use and add another dimension to the Big Shot.  Have fun!

 

Supplies Used: Naturals White, Marina Mist Cardstocks; Watercolor Paper; Marina Mist Satin Ribbon; White Embroidery Floss; Marina Mist Ink; Northern Trim Letterpress; Big Shot; Jewelry Tag Punch; Basic Rhinestones; Serene Snowflakes stamps; Dimensionals

 

Stamp Room Clean-Up...Ready to LAUGH???

Okay, here is something funny for your holiday Monday.  Given that it's Labor Day, I thought it was appropriate to post this video today.  I filmed this just over 2 weeks after my surgery and did wear myself out when filming (no, I don't REALLY move that fast   Ü), but I've had [probably] too much fun editing this video.  Plus, I think I've thoroughly embarrassed my boys.  They were fine until they get to the end part - you'll know why when you see it!  ALL THREE of them shook their heads and walked away!  My sister was laughing when I called her about it and Doug even laughed, and he knew what I was up to. 

Laughter was my goal, so if this makes you laugh AT me or WITH me, I don't care.  Laughter was it, Baby!  I figure if I so thoroughly destroyed my stamp room in the matter of a couple of weeks, then I might as well have fun cleaning it up.  Several of you commented on my post with the "before" pictures and I know that my pics resonated with MANY OF YOU...maybe this will inspire you to clean up with humor.  Sure beats the "clean up" song!  I hope you enjoy...

Happy Labor Day!!!!!

Don't forget to make a comment for the Blog Candy Contest!  Visit my September 1st post for all the details!!

Scalloped Gift Card Holder

TWO posts in one day??!!!  I KNOW...amazing!!!

Last week I posted a video on how to make the beautiful paper roses and mentioned an upcoming video on how to modify our Scalloped Envelope Die (for use with the Big Shot) to hold a gift card.  Well...here it is!  The edges of the die-image don't show up on the video (it's not defined enough), but I do describe it clearly, so I hope you'll find this video helpful.  I've made numerous gift card holders using the modification and they work perfectly.  Have fun and Happy Stamping!!!

 

WOOOHOOOOO! Are You Ready??

First of all, today is the LAST DAY to take advantage of my 30% Discount Sale!  Be sure to check out August 5th's post for all of the details.  Don't miss out on a WONDERFUL sale!

Want to have a BIGGER DISCOUNT???  You can certainly have one - join my team!!  We enjoy a MINIMUM 20% discount each and every month.  Plus, there are many opportunities to make some extra income AND make a good, solid living.  Plus, I work with and train my own teammates - I don't rely on others to do this for me, whether you are close by or far away.  I've been a demonstrator for over 13 years and I wouldn't trade the opportunity, friendships, and skills I've developed for anything.  It's been priceless. 

Okay...you all have been waiting SO VERY PATIENTLY for this video that I promised back when I first showed the paper roses.  Thank you all again for your patience.  You're the best!!  I initially included the envelope into the video but it was too long. So, look for details on that in the next couple days.  In the meantime, here is a detailed video on how to make these gorgeous paper roses.  This isn't a "quick" project, but it's not difficult, either.  Enjoy and make a garden!

I hope you find this video to be helpful and easy to follow.  Thank you for watching!

 

My Digital Studio Cards

I was inspired to sit down and play with My Digital Studio (MDS) and put together these cards.  I have more coming, but I'd like to start by thanking Patty Bennett for much of my inspiration.  Because I didn't have time to get these professionally printed (our professional printing is THE BEST - see below - and worth every penny...plus it's quick!) - needed them in 2 days - I printed them onto Whisper White or Very Vanilla Cardstock on my own OfficeJet printer.  Then, I put together cards: one is straight MDS...no actual embellishments added (which is called hybrid); the other is printed onto Very Vanilla, run through the Big Shot using the Square Lattice Embossing Folder, then lightly sponged with Crumb Cake Ink. 

Initially, I was going to pair this second card with Marina Mist Ribbon and some cardstock (behind the greeting), but because my printer isn't calibrated to Stampin' Up!'s colors, it clashed a bit.  That's why I stuck with the Vanilla Satin Ribbon.  On that note, here is a list of benefits to using Stampin' Up!'s printing vendor:

• Superior Quality - hands-down, the best I have seen. Our book bindings are SEWN, not glued. Ask anyone who has gotten a glued book and they'll tell you - they do not last long. Stampin' Up! has always been about high-quality products, and this printing is no exception.
• Color Calibration - Stampin' Up! worked hand-in-hand with the printer to ensure the colors that are printed match our cardstocks, inks, ribbons, etc.
• Best Value - while the prices might be a bit higher at the beginning, the final results are worth it, thus making the service a true bargain.
• FAST!!!  I ordered my Sampler Photo Album on a Tuesday and received it the following Monday.  WOW!

MY SPECIAL ~ Purchase My Digital Studio from me and receive $10 in FREE EXTRA DOWNLOADS!!  Offer good through August 31, 2010.

MDS comes with a TON of stamp images (called stamp brushes), cardstocks, colors, ribbons, embellishments, punches, layouts, designs, designer papers...and much more.  Plus, there is a recent upgrade that includes the NEW Colors (In Color and core colors)...FREE.  However, there are always new additions that are optional to purchase which range in price from $.95 to $9.95.  You may order them via my website (http://www.tarabazata.stampinup.net) and there is NO shipping or tax!!!  Once ordered, you may access the downloads immediately.

      

Supplies Used:  Pretty in Pink  & Whisper White Cardstock; My Digital Studio     

  

Supplies Used:  Very Vanilla & Crumb Cake Cardstocks; Large Oval and Scalloped Oval Punches; Basic Pearls; Very Vanilla Satin Ribbon; Oval All stamps; Big Shot; Square Lattice Embossing Folder; Mini Glue Dots; Dimensionals; Stamping Sponge; MDS

EASY "My Digital Studio" Update

Stampin' Up! is providing a FREE update to all who have the MDS (My Digital Studio) program.  This update includes all of the new colors in inks, cardstocks, etc.  It's a $50+ value and it's FREE.  It's also SUPER easy to upload.  Check out this video for the details.  Please be kind...this is my first attempt at a video and I was a bit flustered...even forgot to say my name!  Oh well...we all gotta start somewhere! 

About the video - I was all set to record from my camera and my youngest (Seth) came in and asked what I was doing.  He informed me that I could record straight from my computer.  Cool!  I had no idea - thank goodness I have a teenager to help me out!  And here I thought I was pretty handy at techy stuff...guess not so much...  Ü

Hope this is helpful to you!  Have a great day!

 

My Digital Studio

If you haven't checked out the new My Digital Studio (MDS), you ought to give it a try!  I simply LOVE the ease, look, integration into Stampin' Up!'s product line and the final look of these projects.  Watch this video to see some of the great things this program can do (this is an album I've started...more to come!).  I've spoken with several people who have tried other programs and they said this was far better - fully customizable and coordinates with Stampin' Up!'s stamps, punches, papers, embellishments, etc.  Plus, the printing is far superior and the book bindings are strong...they won't fall apart.

Do you already have a digital program?  Did you know that the new and frequently released downloads are compatible with other software programs?  They are as long as your program supports layers and jpg image files.  You may order these any time through my website.