LilyBean's Paperie

harvest lane...

Oh yes....new, delicious, warm, and cozy fall loveliness coming to a crafty store near you!  Simple Stories has another sweet collection available called Harvest Lane....love at first sight!  It's not hard to win me over when it comes to fall products, but this line is just everything I could possibly wish for.

I have a few things to share with you created using this collection.

The wonderful, fun burlap ribbon can be found at Emma's Paperie.  

Hope you're all doing well!  Things here are great.  My husband, back from a fishing trip to Alaska, and we are so happy to have him home.  Love that boy.  Now, if I only loved fish :)  I have 50 pounds or so of salmon and another who knows how many pounds of halibut in my freezer and I sure could use some recipe tips.  Do you have any?  Tonight I will attempt fish tacos using the halibut...wish me luck.  

I'll be back soon!

Melis

guess whooo loves you...

Hi Friends!
I've got a fun post for you today, a few Papertrey Ink Tips & Tricks about how to stretch your dies.  I never dreamed I would love my dies as much as I do, but they are among the first crafting supplies I reach for.  Today I am challenging you to look at them in a whole new way...see what else you can do with them. 

It's no secret that I am crazy for owls...I adore them and wanted to create my own using my Papertrey Ink dies.  Can you tell which dies I've uses here?  Can you tell I used my Shape Up Series:  Onesie die?  Yep...three simple cuts to transform it in to the shape of an owl, and then just two other additional dies, very basic shapes to dress it up.  

The base of my owl was cut from Fine Linen Bitty Dot, the wings were cut from Vintage Cream felt using the Limitless Layers 2 1/4" Oval die collection, and the belly of the owl uses that very same die and is stamped using the Background Basics:  Rainbows set to mimic feathers dressing up his middle using Classic Kraft and Sweet Blush ink.  His beak is simple a heart cut from Vintage Cream felt using the Heart Prints die.  

In addition to using your dies in different ways, keep in mind that you can use many different mediums too, such as burlap, fabric, felt, vellum, and even little pink t-shirts, too small for your little lady as shown here.  Just a simple cotton t-shirt, and look at how fun and ruffled the flower becomes.  A new favorite technique of mine.  I used Papertrey Ink's Beautiful Blooms II #1 and Beautiful Blooms II #3 dies here  and the Sending You die for the leaves.   

Stretch your dies by using the negative spaces as well as the positive.  I am crazy for this trend right now and wanted to try my hand at it, so I used the Modern Alphabet die on this tag cut using the Fillable Frames #9 die and Vintage Cream cardstock.  I simply placed the letters where I wanted them on my tag and ran them through my die cut machine, and instantly loved the results...no embellishing required when something turns out looking this cute.  The sentiment was stamped in Classic Kraft ink using the Little Bitty Bird Additions stamp set, and I tied in the green used on this project by stamping a Spring Moss heart on a die using the Heart-2-Heart #3 stamp set and coordinating die.  

How about a quick tutorial and I'll show you how simple this project can be?   I changed the colors up a bit  using the Green Boutique paper pack,  just to show you how irresistible these are when finished and to encourage you to mix in your own favorite colors and patterns.  

Choose your base color/pattern and use the Shape Up Series:  Onesie die.

Trace a straight line from the tip of both shoulders down to the armpit and cut off both sleeves.

Use your Limitless Layers 2 1/4" Oval die to trace a curve across the bottom of the Onesie die trimming off the bottom.

Can you see the owl taking shape?

Using the Limitless Layers 2 1/4" Oval die, cut one Vintage Cream felt oval.

Cut the oval in half forming two wings.

Cut a second oval from cardstock and stamp using the Background Basics:  Rainbows stamp set and your choice of ink.  I used Aqua Mist and Spring Moss on his belly here.  I coated it with white glitter after to add a little sparkle and on the original owl shown above, the belly was coated using Mica Flakes.

Adhere the wings to the sides of the owl and trim off the excess.  Machine stitch down the sides if desired.

Add a heart cut from Vintage Cream felt using the Heart Prints die.

Next, add two Fine Linen buttons for eyes in slightly different sizes.

Top with smaller Aqua Mist button eyes tied with button twine.

Four layers of ruffled blossoms cut from assorted flower dies mentioned above.

Layered together with felt leaves and a Fine Linen button to finish.

Her he is all completed and just fun!

I can't wait for you to try your own and would love to see them!

Thanks so much for stopping by.  Enjoy your weekend!

Melis













 

trinkets & trims....

I had so much fun creating my projects for the Maya Road booth this summer...I felt like a little girl at play with her glitter, paint, trinkets, and trims.  These two cards use heaps of beautiful Maya Road products such as the Singleton You Are stamp set, Linen Burlap Trim, Tiny Vintage Wood Ruler, Wood Buttons, and many other items you can find in their catalog or on the Maya Road blog.  

The scrunched seam binding on both of these cards is from My Craft Spot.  

This boy is looking so much better...shiny coat, round belly, sassy personality when he doesn't get fed fast enough, but full of sweetness most of the time.  We loaded him up in the horse trailer and took him to the pasture a few days ago where he can munch on sweet meadow grass and hang with the other horses and mules for a while...good for him, but I'm missing him.  My chore list is quite a bit shorter without him around but he'll be back before long.  I've hung up my pitchfork for a while.  I loved watching Sierra's confidence grow as she rode him...she got to the point where she'd go on a ride all by herself along the ridge and back again...and then would attempt taking off his and saddle, ha :)  Made for a nervous mama, but she did great.  So very good for her and fun for her daddy and I to watch.

Happy Trails!

Melis

 

P.S.  Another boy I love has started a blog where he shares his very personal story.  I am sharing his link here just in case someone else out there is going through a difficult time.  My brother's blog, A Life Worth Living.  

pixies & gypsies...

I've had these pincushions all stitched up for a few months now, just waiting to be dressed up and this week I was ready!

I used tea-stained fabric from my stash, glittered, and feathered wings on these first two pincushions, Olive Suede leaves from Freckled Fawn, Maya Road Organza Tea Garden Rose Trim and trinket pins, and scrunched seam binding from My Craft Spot.

Many of the same products used here on this pincushion with the addition of die cut Silver Glitter Tape from Freckled Fawn and Maya Road Khaki Pleated Trim.  

The Silver Glitter Tape was run through my die cut machine using Papertrey Ink's Heart Border Die.

Now for the gypsies...

This first uses Red Lace Tape from Freckled Fawn, millinery flowers, vintage raspberry beads, trim, crystals, a die cut flower using assorted dies from Papertrey Ink and an old cotton shirt of mine...I love how the edges curl and ruffle when die cutting cotton.

Maya Road Slushie Blue Pleated Tulle Trim was also used.  

Another ruffled die cut cotton flower used here along with Melissa Frances Organza Pouf Cream Ribbon, Maya Road Trinket pins, and Raspberry Bead.  

I used Freckled Fawn Pink Scallop Trim Lace Tape and Pink Glitter Tape.  

One last pincushion used much of the same...when ya love it, use it, huh? 

Thanks so much for visiting!
Melis 

 

kind wishes...

Hi there!  Hope your Monday is off to a great start.  I have a couple of Emma's Paperie projects to share with you, the first is based on a sketch you can find there...a super great sketch for all of you scrapbookers.

I used some fun Out of Print Basic Grey and Fancy Pants products. 

This sentiment has to be one of my favorites...I love it.  You can find all of the supplies I used on this card HERE at Emma's Paperie.

This card set is based on Emma's July Color Challenge and uses Authentique Carefree, Crate Paper, and a few other fun toppings.

A complete supply list for these cards can be found HERE at Emma's Paperie.

What's going on around here...I'm watering trees like crazy today just so that it will rain :)  I know it will rain if I water, so I'm trying to out-think Mother Nature...I'll let you know if it works.  There aren't too many things I love more than summer rainstorms.  

I made a yummy batch of Zucchini Bread this weekend....craving more.

My little lady and I are going to go pick some green beans at her Great Grandma's later today.  I LOVE string beans and ham.

And, my fun sister-in-law just started a new dance wear business after her previous clothing business called Layers burned to the ground last year.  I'm so happy for her and think she's so talented.  Three of her daughters, my nieces, are the most beautiful dancers I know and it's fun to know she's designed these items and company around them and a passion they all share.  Her company is called  Company No. 5 and her website features all of her products and are even modeled by my nieces....they are beauties.  The cover girl on the home page is the eldest...see if you can spot the others.  I've got a few little items for Sierra in my cart, ready for fall when she starts dance again...so fun!  I really wish her the best!

Be back soon!
Melis 

stamp-a-faire stamper's first aid...

One more Papertrey Ink Stamp-a-faire tutorial for you showing my take on the card shown in the graphic above by Barbara Martin.  Barbara felt her card needed some "first aid" and just a little something extra...well, a little something extra is hard for me as I tend to pile and layer and add things that represent my style.  So, my tutorial will let you get a peek inside my mind and find out what things I look for in making a card...what I think about when selecting patterns, colors, and combining embellishments.  Barbara, your card is WONDERFUL...and I could certainly learn a lot from you :)  Tune into the Papertrey Ink blog to find my tutorial and several other Stamper's First Aid tutorials from design team members.

Each DT member has selected a project to give "first-aid" to and re-make the project, making changes that they feel benefit the project while staying true to the original concept.  All of the team members "made-over" projects are highlighted at this time on Nichole's blog.  Each customer who had a card selected will win a $25 PTI gift certificate....so congratulations Barbara and thank you for inspiring me!

Melis

stamp-a-faire homemade embellishments challenge...

Learn how to create these quick and easy felt bows using Papertrey Ink felt and the Double Ended Banner die in our next challenge, the DIY Badge- Homemade Embellishments Challenge".

I've created a tutorial for you showing you how to create three different types of homemade bows using felt or paper.  

Tune into the Papertrey Ink blog to find my tutorial and several other homemade embellishment tutorials from design team members.

Your challenge is to recreate a homemade embellishment taught by myself or other design team members or create your own!

All of the challenges provided throughout the day will also have a coordinating InLinkz list for you to share your projects using your favorite photo-hosting site (Flickr, Photobucket, etc), gallery or your blog.  

Each list will be open until noon EST Monday, July 23rd, so you will have ample time to participate and photograph your projects.  Winner will be selected from each challenge and announced Monday night!

Enjoy and I can't wait to see your creations!

Melis

 

stamp-a-faire camp card set challenge...

Moving right along, our next challenge today is the "Correspondence Badge- Camp Card Set Challenge".

Love, love, love the simplicity of this card set as well as the happy, fruity colors used throughout.  I've got a tutorial prepared for you showing how you can recreate this card set for yourself or a special friend.

Tune into the Papertrey Ink blog to find my tutorial and several other card set tutorials from design team members.

Your challenge is to recreate a card set shown by myself or another design team member or create your own!

All of the challenges provided throughout the day will also have a coordinating InLinkz list for you to share your projects using your favorite photo-hosting site (Flickr, Photobucket, etc), gallery or your blog.  

Each list will be open until noon EST Monday, July 23rd, so you will have ample time to participate and photograph your projects.  Winner will be selected from each challenge and announced Monday night!

Enjoy and I can't wait to see your creations!

Melis

 

stamp-a-faire tie-dye techniques...

Oooohhh....prepare to LOVE this next Papertrey Ink Stamp-a-faire challenge and then want to try your hand at each of the tie-dye techniques Nichole has demonstrated.  I can't wait to use my husband's shaving cream for my paper-crafting purposes!

"Rainbow Badge- Tie-Dye Techniques"

I used the Dye Ink Tie-Die technique for my card using the following colors:

Berry Sorbet, Melon Berry, and Sweet Blush, with hearts stamped in the center of each circle using Pure Poppy ink.

I used Trendy Tree Tops and Happy Trails stamp sets with the heart from Heart-2-Heart #5 used as well.  The dotted background was stamped after the tie-dye technique and my cardstock had dried.  I used the Polka Dot Basics II set.  

The dies used are Trendy Tree Tops, Heart-2-Heart #6, and The Sweet Life. 

Accents used are Vintage Cream, Melon Berry, and Simply Chartreuse felt, Autumn Rose Saddle Stitch ribbon, and a Fine Linen button.  The sweet paper used across the bottom is from the Beautiful Beads Pink & Orange Mix.

Your challenge is to create your own card using one of the techniques demonstrated by Nichole.  

 Dye Ink Tie-Dye Technique Video:

http://youtu.be/quFM-_EVVco

Copics Tie-Dye Technique Video:

http://youtu.be/PHy53HXuhOo

Marbleized Tie-Dye Technique Video:

http://youtu.be/pZuVrm1zldw

All of the challenges provided throughout the day will also have a coordinating InLinkz list for you to share your projects using your favorite photo-hosting site (Flickr, Photobucket, etc), gallery or your blog.  

 

Each list will be open until noon EST Monday, July 23rd, so you will have ample time to participate and photograph your projects.  Winner will be selected from each challenge and announced Monday night!

Enjoy and I can't wait to see your creations!

Melis

 

stamp-a-faire limited supply challenge...

Supply list:

Stamps:  Natural Beauties

Cardstock:  Stamper's Select White, Simply Chartreuse, Hawaiian Shores

Ribbon:  Hawaiian Shores Bitty Dot

Button:  Simply Chartreuse

Ink:  Spring Moss, Simply Chartreuse, True Black, Melon Berry, Pure Poppy

 

Here are the cutting details for you if you choose to recreate my card:

1.  Cut Stamper's Select White cardstock 8 1/2" x 4 1/4". (For card base)

2.  Cut Simply Chartreuse cardstock 4 1/4" x 1".

3.  Cut Stamper's Select White cardstock 1 1/4" x 2". (For sentiment block)

4.  Cut Hawaiian Shores cardstock 4"x4". (For the inside)

5.  Cut Hawaiian Shores Bitty Dot Satin into a 9" strip.

 

Are you having fun?  Up for another challenge?  I hope so, this one is a super fun challenge called the "Craft Conservation Badge- Limited Supply Challenge".  

Each design team member has created a card using the beautiful new Natural Beauties stamp set and the very same basic supplies.  It will be so fun to see how differently each card has turned out....including yours!

Tune into the Papertrey Ink blog to find cards created by myself and other design team members.Your challenge is to recreate a card made by one of the design team members or create your own!

All of the challenges provided throughout the day will also have a coordinating InLinkz list for you to share your projects using your favorite photo-hosting site (Flickr, Photobucket, etc), gallery or your blog.  

Each list will be open until noon EST Monday, July 23rd, so you will have ample time to participate and photograph your projects.  Winner will be selected from each challenge and announced Monday night!

Enjoy and I can't wait to see your creations!

Melis

 

stamp-a-faire mini book challenge...

 

Your next challenge stampers is the "Memory Preservation Badge- Mini Book Challenge".

Mini books are one of my absolute favorite things to create as I get to combine my love of paper-crafting on a small scale with sweet pictures of my little bean and other priceless photos and memorabilia of the life that I love so much.

I've created a tutorial for you creating a really fun and easy mini book using the Library Card Tag die and sweet felt pockets where you can hold those wonderful memories using the Library Pocket die.

Tune into the Papertrey Ink blog to find my tutorial and several other mini book tutorials from design team members.

Your challenge is to recreate a mini book using a technique taught by myself or other design team members or create your own!

All of the challenges provided throughout the day will also have a coordinating InLinkz list for you to share your projects using your favorite photo-hosting site (Flickr, Photobucket, etc), gallery or your blog.  

Each list will be open until noon EST Monday, July 23rd, so you will have ample time to participate and photograph your projects.  Winner will be selected from each challenge and announced Monday night!

Enjoy and I can't wait to see your creations!

Melis

 

stamp-a-faire ribbon techniques challenge...

Rise and Shine Stampers!  I'm so glad you're joining me for Papertrey Ink's Stamp-a-faire online event.  Our first challenge this morning is the"Knots Badge- Ribbon Techniques Challenge"

I've got a video tutorial prepared for you teaching you ribbon techniques.  I'll show you how to make three different types of ribbon leaves.  Tune into the Papertrey Ink blog to find my tutorial and several other ribbon technique tutorials from design team members.

Your challenge is to recreate a ribbon technique taught by myself or other design team members or create your own!

All of the challenges provided throughout the day will also have a coordinating InLinkz list for you to share your projects using your favorite photo-hosting site (Flickr, Photobucket, etc), gallery or your blog.  

Each list will be open until noon EST Monday, July 23rd, so you will have ample time to participate and photograph your projects.  Winner will be selected from each challenge and announced Monday night!

Enjoy and I can't wait to see your creations!

Melis

home is...

Good morning!  Today I have a Maya Road project to share with you which I created for CHA.  It is loaded with goodness...Maya Road has some of funnest new products and oodles of them to boot.  You can view the Maya Road catalog and sneaks of their new products on the Maya Road blog.

This little chipboard album is full of things I love, stamping, wooden buttons, chipboard, canvas tags, trims, etc.

Cute Kraft envelopes and metal hangers...

Love, love, love their new stamps.

I can't get enough of distressing the Maya Road wooden buttons...cute stuff I tell you.

Hope your day is beautiful!

Thanks for your visit.

Melis

 

 

handmade holiday...

Simple Stories is introducing the cutest, coziest, most homespun collection called Handmade Holiday.  It speaks to my country girl heart and I love the warmth, texture, mix of patterns, colors, and sweet details included in this collection.  Here are just a few things I created for the Simple Stories booth using Handmade Holiday.

The fun Vintage Baker's Twine can be found at Craft Spot.  

A trio of merry wooden houses propped on vintage spools...

And, here are a few peeks at what is available....I love every last bit of it.

You can see much more of this product line and their other new collection on the Simple Stories blog.

Melis

countdown to christmas...

Sigh....I love paper-crafting and working with beautiful and sweet products from wonderful manufacturers.  I have worked with Melissa Frances for years now...too many to count and I am more in love with her products than ever before.  Case in point....see that cute little intro. picture....who wouldn't love that  and want to see more?

Here is a trio of Christmas treat holders that I created for the Melissa Frances booth using the new Countdown to Christmas line.

A few items in this collection that I am most excited about...

The die-cuts....I love 'em, I love 'em, I love 'em.

The paper pad...perfect for all of us card-makers!


Holiday Chevron paper.....very merry, bright, and trendy!

And, then this....who can resist?  A little taste of everything included on one sheet!

Now, don't go away without reading this important note!

Melissa Frances is giving away the entire Countdown to Christmas collection to one lucky reader.  All you have to do is leave a comment HERE on the Melissa Frances blog stating which of the 6 new patterned papers (all shown on the blog) is your favorite.  (Please only one comment per person.) Giveaway will close on Sunday, July 22 at 6:00PM PST. Winner will be announced on the Melissa Frances blog on Monday, July 23.

 

Thanks for visiting,

Melis





 

ohDEERme july...

I've got a sweet new ohDEERme kit to share with you tonight.  All of the projects I'm showing were created with contents from this kit.

The paper bow and woodgrain tags are from Curtsey Boutique.

Sweet die-cut embellishments from Scarlet Bird Designs.

Trinket pin from Pincushion Crazy.

Turquoise Ruffle Blossom from Precocious Paper.

Mason Jar Tags from Sweetly Scrapped Art.

Flair Buttons from A Flair For Buttons.

Woodgrain washi and wooden tags from Freckled Fawn.

2 Heart Studio tag...so sweet.

Paper Flower from Stuff Depot.

I have a post up on I am Doe linking to all of the additional washi tapes used.

 

More coming soon!

Happy Monday!

Melis

papertrey ink july...

Another month has zipped on by and once again it's time to share my Papertrey Ink new release projects with you.  All of these new stamp sets and dies will be available for purchase on July 15th at 10PM MST.  

This first card uses the darling new Floral Foliage stamp set and coordinating die.  It's a simple, inexpensive set that packs a lot of creativity and versatility.  

The sun die is from the Heart-2-Heart #6 die collection, leaves from The Sweet Life, and flowers from Buttoned Up #2 die collection.  The fun and happy washi tape and trim tape are from Freckled Fawn.

This card uses the Framed Out 6 stamp set and die along with a sentiment from the Signature Greetings II stamp set.  

Dawn's handwriting makes for such beautiful stamp sets I think.  Glad we're on round II :)

Maile Belle's new Gracious Vases stamp set and die collection are so much fun to play around with.  This is one set that you can use over and over again and get different results each time.  For my card, I embossed a  Fine Linen vase die with white embossing powder and then stamped over it with Aqua Mist.  I then started piling on the die cut flowers and layering them to create a fun bouquet.

The Modern Alphabet Upper and Lower die set was used here too.  The letters are cut from wood grain washi tape, also from Freckled Fawn.

Perhaps the cutest, little boy set on the planet...the new Little Hot Rod is next and is completely irresistible.  I used the coordinating die collection as well as stamps and dies from the Fabulous Frames set.  The tiny heart is from the Shutterbug Special set.

The sentiments are too much!  I really adore everything about this set.

Last, but certainly not least is another addition to the Heart-2-Heart series, which I am loving!  This is the 6th set in this collection and is just as sweet as can be, not to mention so inexpensive.  The sun and clouds and the darling sentiments make this a must have.

I used layers and layers of puffy clouds die cut using different mediums including Vintage Cream and Aqua Mist felt, vellum cardstock, and washi tape.  The sun is peeking out from behind the layered clouds and is glittered up for fun.

All if the supplies used on these cards are listed below as well as links to the other blog of the other Papertrey Ink designers.

• Heather Nichols
• Dawn McVey
• Betsy Veldman
• Ashley Cannon Newell
• Maile Belles
• Jessica Witty
• Danielle Flanders
• Cristina Kowalczyk
• Debbie Olson

Thanks for visiting!

Melis

Friend Card

Papertrey Ink Supplies Used:
Stamps:
Floral Foliage
Cardstock:
Spring Moss
Ink:
Smokey Shadow
Accents:
Harvest Gold felt, Harvest Gold button, Melon Berry and Simply Chartreuse
Tools:
Heart-2-Heart #6, Floral Foliage, The Sweet Life, Buttoned Up #2

Other Supplies Used:
Studio Calico and My Mind's Eye paper
Freckled Fawn trim and washi tape
Melissa Frances adhesive pearls

To My Friend Card

Papertrey Ink Supplies Used:
Stamps:
Signature Greeting II, Framed Out #6
Cardstock:
Sweet Blush
Ink:
Winter Wisteria, Hibiscus Burst
Accents:
Plum Pudding Buttons, Sweet Blush Grosgrain, Vintage Cream and Simply Chartreuse felt
Tools
Heart-2-Heart #3, The Sweet LIfe, Framed Out #6, Button Card

Other Supplies Used:
Pink Paislee, Studio Calico, and My Mind's Eye paper
White embossing powder

Hi Card

Papertrey Ink Supplies Used:
Stamps:
Gracious Vases, Friendship Jar
Cardstock:
Kraft and Fine Linen
Ink:
Dark Chocolate, Aqua Mist
Accents:
Pure Poppy Satin, Harvest Gold, Vintage Cream, and Simple Chartreuse felt, Aqua Mist buttons
Tools:
Gracious Vases, Modern Alphabet Upper and Lower , Buttoned Up #2, Beautiful Blooms II #2, Flower Fusion #2, The Sweet Life

Other Supplies Used:
Studio Calico paper
Freckled Fawn washi tape

Plane Cute Card

Papertrey Ink Supplies Used:
Stamps:
Fabulous Frames, LIttle Hot Rod
Cardstock:
Vintage Cream
Ink:
Pure Poppy, Classic Kraft, Enchanted Evening
Accents:
Soft Stone Grosgrain, Spring Rain button, Harvest Gold felt
Tools:
Little Hot Rod, Fabulous Frames

Other Supplies Used:
Simple Stories paper

Brighter Skies Card

Papertrey Ink Supplies Used:
Stamps:
Heart-2-Heart #6
Cardstock:
Vintage Cream and Vellum
Ink:
Aqua Mist
Accents:
Aqua Mist and Vintage Cream felt
Tools:
Heart-2-Heart #6, Fabulous Frames

Other Supplies Used:
My Mind's Eye and Crate Paper paper
Freckled Fawn washi tape
Clear buttons
Glitter

 

fabulous frames....

Get ready for a fun, trendy, versatile, and must-have new stamp set from Papertrey Ink called Fabulous Frames.  I have learned that this set will be one I cannot put down, will want to use on everything, and will most certainly wear right out.  This set and all of the other new release items will be available for purchase July 15th, 10PM EST.

My first project uses the stamp set and coordinating dies on a card with the frame embossed in gold.  The frame die actually cuts several pieces that can be used together or separately and are so much fun to layer.  I used the center portion as my focal point and added a sentiment stamped using the Gratitude Journal set and the Modern Alphabet Upper die cut from Classic Kraft and Melon Berry felt.  These little letters are darling cut from felt!

Loving metallic embossing powder!  The tab die was also stamped using an image from the Fabulous Frames set and also the new Framed Out #6 set.

To add some softness, I matted the frame onto vellum and loved how it helped the sentiment stand out a bit.

My next project uses the Fabulous Frames stamps and dies on a little mini book created  using the Library Card Tag die.

You can see here the multiple layers of stamping available with this set.  I LOVE the chevron frame...especially stamped in pink!.  The hearts stamped throughout the mini book are from the new Shutterbug Special stamp set.

This frame was die cut from wood grain patterned paper and embossed using white embossing powder.  

Look at all of these fun images available in this set!  You are going to have so much fun.  The sentiments used here and on the next page are from the new Signature Greetings II stamp set.

I love all of the faces my Little Miss S. pulls as I try and capture a smile...I will take what I can get...even if it's a scrunched up nose, awkward smile, and squinty eyes...they all sum up her funny, little personality.

Lots of Freckled Fawn washi tape used on this, metal office clips, staples, mini Kraft bags, etc.

Can't wait to use this set again and again!

Thanks for visiting.  Be sure to stop by the blogs of the other designers for lots of inspiration!

• Heather Nichols
• Dawn McVey
• Betsy Veldman
• Ashley Cannon Newell
• Maile Belles
• Jessica Witty
• Danielle Flanders
• Cristina Kowalczyk

Supplies used from Papertrey Ink

Thankful for You Card

Stamps:
Gratitude Journal, Framed Out #6,  Fabulous Frames

Cardstock:

Spring Moss, Stamper's Select Vellum

Ink:
Classic Kraft, Melon Berry, and Spring Moss

Accents:
Fine Linen Buttons, Melon Berry and Classic Kraft felt

Tools:
Fabulous Frames, Modern Alphabet Upper

 

"S" Mini Album

Stamps:
Fabulous Frames, Shutterbug Special, Background Basics:  Postmarks, Signature Greetings II

Cardstock:
Vintage Cream

Ink:
Melon Berry, Berry Sorbet, Classic Kraft, Spring Moss, Smokey Shadow 

Accents:
Vintage Cream and Classic Kraft felt, Fine Linen buttons, button twine

Tools:
Library Card Tag die, Modern Alphabet Upper, Fabulous Frames, Beautiful Blooms II #3, Flower Fusion #2 

shutterbug special...

Welcome to the first group post of July showcasing new release stamp sets from Papertrey Ink.  Today the design team members are highlighting the new Shutterbug Special stamp set and coordinating dies.  The set is beautiful and interactive.

My first project uses the Shutterbug Special stamps and dies on a layout all about my little goof-ball, who despises the camera and who frowns and grumps whenever I try and take her photo....except for on a rare occasion just last Sunday.  

Knowing me...it won't come as a surprise that my camera is pink....vintage + pink, what could be better.  I embossed my camera image with silver embossing powder to add a little whimsy and then started topping it with fun accents such as the Tiny Tag, metal clip, Harvest Gold felt, and another stamped image from the stamp set.  I used the Heart Prints die to die cut a small heart from Glitter Tape to embellish the center of the camera.

I love the sentiments that are included in this set and the fun, vintage script and font.  You can see here that the coordinating die includes a tab that you can use to insert into the camera and pull out to reveal the sentiment.

I used The Sweet Life dies and Simply Chartreuse felt to add leaves to patterned paper and added another sentiment found in the set.  The Cloud 1& 2 die collection was used with Aqua Mist felt to create another fun embellishment to add to this layout.  

 

Across the bottom I created a handmade banner using the Banner Builder die collection, Aqua Mist and Melon Berry felt, and Melon Berry Gingham paper.  You can sneak a peek at another new stamp set available this month called Signature Greetings II by Dawn McVey.  

My next project uses the Shutterbug Special stamp set on a card.  I stamped the camera image in Melon Berry ink on a die cut using the Mat Stack 4 die.  

The cute sentiment is stamped on a Tiny Tag die in Classic Kraft ink.   

I created a heart garland using the Heart-2-Heart #3 die and covered them in Freckled Fawn washi tape and topped off with a flower cut using Vintage Cream and Melon Berry felt and the Flower Fusion #3 and Buttoned Up #2 dies.  

Thanks so much for stopping by.  The other design team members have wonderful projects to share with you.

• Heather Nichols
• Dawn McVey
• Betsy Veldman
• Ashley Cannon Newell
• Maile Belles
• Jessica Witty
• Erin Lincoln
• Danielle Flanders
• Cristina Kowalczyk

Papertrey Ink Supplies Used:

Smile Layout

Stamps:

Shutterbug Special, Signature Greetings II

Ink:
Berry Sorbet, Smokey Shadow

Cardstock and Paper:
Sweet BLush, Vintage Cream, and Melon Berry Gingham

Accents:
Lemon Tart, Aqua Mist, Sweet Blush, and Berry Sorbet buttons, Aqua Mist, Harvest Gold, Simply Chartreuse, and Melon Berry felt

Tools:
Banner Builder, Cloud 1&2, The Sweet Life, Buttoned Up #2, Tiny Tags, Shutterbug Special, Heart Prints

 

 You and I Just Click Card

Stamps:

Shutterbug Special

Ink:
Melon Berry, Aqua Mist, Classic Kraft

Cardstock and Paper:
Fine Linen, Vintage Cream

Accents:
Vintage Cream and Melon Berry felt

Tools:
Heart - 2- Heart #3, Tiny Tags, Mat Stack 4, Flower Fusion #3, and Buttoned Up #2 dies 

the sweet life + think big favorites #18...

Did you think I had run away never to return?  Ahhhh, sweet, crazy, carefree, busy, spontaneous, lazy, on the fly, wonderful summer, huh?  I actually have more projects than ever before to share with you as I have been busy with Papertrey Ink new release projects plus heaps and heaps of CHA projects.  I'll spread them out with time, but for now I am here to introduce you to Papertrey Ink's The Sweet Life and Think Big Favorites #18 stamp sets.  They are both such fun sets and will be available for purchase on July 15th, 10PM EST.   Enough of my chit chat, let's get started.

The Sweet Life stamp set is truly too beautiful for words and one of those stamp sets that you just have to play with.  The cabbage rose images transform before your eyes with each layer of stamping you add.  It is a 3-step flower set with the leaves having 2-steps to bring them to life, but keep in mind that you can eliminate any of these layers to make the flowers your own.  I played around with colors and layering for each of my projects before committing to my final project.  

This first card uses the coordinating dies to bring in some dimension.  The flowers are stamped with Sweet Blush as the bottom layer, Hibiscus Burst secondly, and topped with Autumn Rose to bring in the darker color which adds detail.  I actually stamp the first layer (Sweet Blush) last because I love how it blends all of the colors and adds softness and finishing.

I used the "Stamping Off" technique lastly by using a sentiment from the stamp set and Classic Kraft ink.  I wanted a very subtle script to role across my cabbage roses and love how they turned out.  The leaves are stamped in Spring Moss and Simply Chartreuse.

The same layers of colors were used in the bottom corner to create a tiny accent and tie the card together.  Classic Kraft ink provides a perfect color for the beautiful sentiment.

I dressed up an envelope to coordinate with the card, inspired by the fun sentiments in the new Think Big Favorites #18 set.  

This card uses some fun and fresh colors, perfect for summertime.  The new Winter Wisteria paper pack is beautiful and pairs so wonderfully well with Harvest Gold, Spring Moss, and Ripe Avocado.

This cabbage rose was stamped with Lavender Moon on the base, Winter Wisteria next, and followed by Plum Pudding.  I used the coordinating die to die cut leaves from Simply Chartreuse felt.

One of my favorite cards from Dawn McVey inspired the use of the On the Farm set as the background for my rose.

The sentiment was stamped on a Fillable Frames #10 die and you can get another peek at a sentiment found in the Think Big Favorites #18 set.

One more dressed up envelope using the third Think Big Favorites #18 sentiment, sweet accent flowers that coordinate with the card, On the Farm, Postmarks sets, and delicious Washi Tape from Freckled Fawn.

My last project is a mini card set wrapped up in a Favor It Box 4 cut from Aqua Mist and Fine Linen cardstock.  Both the favor box and the cards were embossed using the Simple Stripes Impression Plate.

Theses sweet little cabbage roses were stamped in Sweet Blush as the base color, Melon Berry next, and Berry Sorbet to bring in the details.  The leaves were stamped with Hawaiian Shores and Aqua Mist.

This little accent flower was cut using Classic Kraft felt, trim, and the Movers & Shakers Poppers die.

I used the Tea for Two die for my sentiment and once again used the "Stamping Off" technique just to add a subtle border to frame in the sentiment.  The border image  is from the Trademarks stamp set and is stamped in Classic Kraft ink.  

I know you'll love both of these sets and will especially love creating some amazing flowers using different color combinations and The Sweet Life.

Thanks for your visit.  I'll be back very soon!

Melis

 

CLICK HERE to see more from Heather Nichols.

CLICK HERE to see more from Melissa Bickford.

CLICK HERE to see more from Dawn McVey.

CLICK HERE to see more from Maile Belles.

Papertrey Ink Supplies Used:

What Makes Life So Sweet card and envelope

Stamps:
The Sweet Life, Think Big Favorites #18, and Postmarks

Cardstock and Paper:
Sweet Blush, Vintage Cream, Sweet Symphony

Ink:
 Sweet Blush, Hibiscus Burst, Autumn Rose, Spring Moss, Ripe Avocado, Classic Kraft

Accents:
Vintage Cream Grosgrain, Rustic Cream button twine

Tools:
The Sweet Life, Eyelet Lace 

 

Life is Sweet card and envelope

Stamps:

 The Sweet Life, Think Big Favorites #18, On the Farm, and Postmarks

Ink:
Lavendar Moon, Winter Wisteria, Plum Pudding, Harvest Gold, Spring Moss, Ripe Avocado

Cardstock and Paper:
Winter Wisteria Stripes, Gingham, and Leaves, Vintage Cream

Accents:

Harvest Gold Grosgrain, Lemon Tart buttons, Simply Chartreuse felt

Tools:
Super Stars Border, The Sweet Life, Fillable Frames #10, Perfect Patches 

 

The Sweet Life card and Favor Box Set

Stamps:
The Sweet Life, Trademarks

Cardstock and Paper:

Melon Berry Gingham, Aqua Mist, Fine Linen, and Vintage Cream

Ink:
Sweet Blush, Melon Berry, Berry Sorbet, Classic Kraft, Aqua Mist, and Hawaiian Shores

Accents:
Vintage Cream Grosgrain, button twine, Aqua Mist, Melon Berry, and Classic Kraft felt, Vintage Cream buttons

Tools:
Favor It Box 4, Buttoned Up #2, Sending You, Movers & Shakers Poppers, and Tea for Two dies 

 

P.S.!!!  I can't forget to mention the winner of the Washi Tape Anonymous class from Freckled Fawn now can I?  It's very important, life changing, and a much needed intervention in the life of .....SHERYL!  You lucky lady and washi tape addict.  I am so happy that help is coming your way.  

attn. washi tape addicts...

Hello, I am Melissa. I am addicted to washi tape.  It's coming out my ears, and yet I feel like I need more.  In fact, I placed an order just yesterday because I had to have some Picnic Table Plaid washi...just had to .  I don't share my washi with anyone...I find it's like sharing my french fries...I just don't.  I give dirty looks when someone helps themselves to my fries and my washis.  So rude really.  Does this condition sound familiar?  I feel for you, really.  

Are you addicted to washi too? Join Doe and friends all month long as they share fresh washi tape projects. Beginning August 1, there will be mini meetings every day where they offer up tips and tricks, doelightful tutorials, and lovely inspiration--all designed to help you craft victoriously with your ever-growing stash of washi. Addicted to washi tape? Don't worry, there's help! Find all the details here.

Doesn't this sound fun?  I'm excited to be part of the workshops and have some fun tutorials in the works to help you with all of your washi needs...it's a safe, friendly, place to come and play...no judging, just acceptance :)

And, lucky me and lucky you, one of you that is!   I am giving away a free Washi Tape Anonymous pass to one lucky reader.  Just leave a comment on this post telling me of your love affair with washi and on the 12th of July I will announce the winner!

You can find out more information and purchase your August pass HERE on the Freckled Fawn website.

Speaking of washi....here is the current state of affairs here.  Time for a new organizational routine and I have just the idea.  I'll show you when I get my act together.

I created these fun little jar tags for a friend using Papertrey Ink's Friendship Jar, Tiny Tags, Love Lives Here, and Flower Fusion #7 stamp sets, Jar, Jar Toppers, Love Lives Here, Tiny Tags, and the Notched Flowers dies.  

I created hangers for the tags using Freckled Fawn Washi Tape including:  Mint Chevron, Yellow Starburst, and Stripe.

 

See you at the meetings!

Melis 

 

burlap & buttons...

I have just a few minutes of down time today and I am bound and determined to blog!  I have a shabby little card bundle to share with you that I created for Emma's Paperie.  We focused on Studio Calico last month, so these cards are full of their product...which I LOVE!

You can shop til you drop for all of the supplies used on these cards HERE at Emma's Paperie.  And, there's a short tutorial on the wooden buttons I used....smitten with those things I tell you.  I used some of Studio Calico's Mister Huey misting spray for the first time on them and love how aged and roughed up they look.  Perhaps it's an acquired taste, not for everyone, but I LOVE them.

Let's see...off to town to the Post Office, home again to make a meal for someone sick in my ward, will make time to enjoy the big, puffy, rain clouds floating around outside my window, will soak in the smell of rain even though I don't think we'll have any...I love the thought of it and yesterday we had an enormous downpour here on our little mountain and it made life so sweet!  My little one pulled on her raincoat and boots and out she went to enjoy it.  Love that little lady.

Hope summer is sweet wherever you are right now!

Melis

see good days...

Hi everyone!  I've been enjoying my stash of washi tape lately and have created some die cut washi butterflies to share with you today.  They are so easy and fun...now I want to try them using all of my tapes to mix up the colors and feel.

I used the following washi, fabric, and trim tapes from Freckled Fawn:  Girl Silhouette, Black Heart Lace, Music Note, Small Tape Measure, Cross Stitch, Scallop Trim Lace, and  Vintage Rose Fabric tapes.  

The doilies and Kraft tags are also from Freckled Fawn.  

I used Papertrey Ink's Beautiful Butterflies die and the Movers & Shakers Poppers and Lovely Layers for the flowers along with Autumn Rose, Simply Chartreuse, and Classic Kraft felt.  The sentiments are from the Mega Mixed Messages stamp set.  

The lovely Raspberry Truffle and Vanilla Bean scrunched seam binding can be found at My Craft Spot.

I started reading this book early in the week...so far I love it.  Filled with lots of wonderful insights and reminders about how wonderful life is if we just change how we view it.  

 

See you soon!

Melis

 

signature series revisited...

I've got a couple of sweet projects to share with you today as part of Papertrey Ink's Sr. Design Team challenge.  We were asked to revisit the Signatures Series stamp sets and come up with some unique creations to inspire you.  

I combined my love of paper-crafting and stamping with my love of fabric and stitching.  For this first project, I used the Signature Series:  Flower Mini stamp set and stamped the flower image on muslin using Classic Kraft ink.  I then used three strands of pink embroidery floss and just followed the curve of the letters.  I then hand cut the flower from the muslin and attached it to a Vintage Cream felt envelope cut using the Tiny Envelope die.  The sentiment is from the same stamp set and was stamped on a die cut using the Fillable Frames #10 die and stamped with the Fillable Frames #10 set, Classic Kraft and Sweet Blush ink.  The Simple Chartreuse felt leaves were cut using the Sending You die.  

Then...one thing led to another, and well, I think sweet little felt envelopes should have wings, don't you?  So, I decided to show you how to use this little creation as a jump start to create a beautiful package.  I wrapped a small box (cause we all know that good things come in small packages) in a brown paper bag stamped with the Signature Series:  Flower Mini stamp set and Vintage Cream ink.  A couple of strands of Rustic Cream button twine were wrapped around the box and tied in a messy bow and then the mini envelope was attached using a small clothespin...super easy but very memorable, I think.

I then wanted to try this same technique using the Signature Series:  Butterfly Mini stamp set, muslin, and Aqua Mist ink and love how soft and sweet it turned out.  Stamping on fabric is so easy and creates very unexpected results.  

The envelope was cut from Aqua Mist felt and the sentiment stamped on the same die as the project above uses a sentiment from the Signature Series:  Butterfly Mini stamp set.  

Lots of fun...hope you try a little flying envie and hand-stitched embellishment of your own!

Here are links to the blogs of the other Sr. Team designers.  Can't wait to see what they've created for you!

Betsy Veldman

Dawn McVey

Heather Nichols

Maile Belles

Thanks for visiting.

Melis