LilyBean Paperie

fabulous fifty...

Happy 50th to my friend Melissa Frances!  We're celebrating her life over on the Melissa Frances blog and what better way to celebrate than leaving your birthday wish for her and entering to win a fabulous prize package to boot!

Design Team members past and present along with friends of Melissa Frances have created special projects just for her...you'll not want to miss all of the beautiful things posted on the blog there as well.

I created a gift pouch using plenty of soft, shabby, and irresistible Melissa Frances products...my favorite at the moment being the resin cherub embellishments that I painted with Ballet Slipper and Catalina Mist Krylon paint and then aged and antiqued with Glimmer Mist...so fun to watch them transform.

To be eligible for the giveaway, you must post before 9AM PST on Tuesday, September 4th. On Sept. 4th a randomly selected winner will receive a goodie box full of $100 worth of gorgeous Melissa Frances products.

But, wait, that's not all. Scrapbook and Cards Today magazine has graciously offered to add a one year subscription to their publication to the lucky winner.

Happy Birthday Melissa!  Thank you for all you do and best of luck to each of you!

Melis

pink skies...

My favorite time of the day, one of them I should say as I have many, is just as the sun is coming up.  I've been getting up early each morning for a couple of years now to head out into the hills and run.  I have come to love, love, love this part of my day...I crave it and it provides me with a clear head and focus.  My husband started joining me on my run about 6 months ago or so and I love it even more now.  This morning, the alarm went off at 6 and we were off, beating the sun and getting to see the it start rising above the mountains.  It was the most glorious color of pink, from pale pink shades to bright coral...I always consider beauty like this, little miracles and signs that we are being thought of from above.

Some mornings my husband and I talk the whole way while huffing and puffing along, some mornings we run in silence, both lost in out thoughts of what the day will bring or just enjoying the early morning, sometimes he pesters and teases me the whole way, sometimes I get him back, sometimes we race...sometimes I let him win, ha, even though he is like a freight train and can kick my hiney any day.  It's so fun to start the day out this way.  Puts a smile on my face from the beginning.

Today's card was created for Emma's Paperie and is based on a sketch there.  Are you beginning to catch on to my love of Basic Grey Paper House and Clippings :)  Can't get enough of these two lines...they're just fun to use and fiddle around with.

Still haven't had enough zucchini bread, so today I must try these!  Zucchini Bread Cupcakes from Mommy I'm Hungry...don't you love that name?  I hear that multiple times each day... :)

Enjoy your day!

Melis 

vintage cafe...

This week, the Vintage Cafe Card Challenge blog has "travel" in the spotlight.  It was fun to shuffle through my trinket stash to find an image of a vintage hot air balloon that I wanted to use on my card along with with shabby, beautiful pastel map patterned paper.  A challenge is always welcome here as it pushes me in directions I normally wouldn't go, and I always enjoy the process.

I have an area in my craft room where I keep some of my most favorite one-of-a-kind pieces and find that I rarely use them, but couldn't resist using this fabric remnant with the sweetest crocheted border.  Also, a large metal rimmed tea-stained circle tag that my friend Mish packed up and sent my way many months ago...both were just the right touch.

Some Studio Calico die cut clouds that I distressed and added glitter to along with Basic Grey Clippings chipboard letters and layers of die cut flowers topped with a painted and distressed Maya Road wooden button.  Layers are so much fun to work with...gives me a way to incorporate so many of my favorite things onto one very small canvas.

Supplies used on this card are listed below.

Have a beautiful day! 

Melis

 

InLinkz.com

circles of love...

Life's journey....how I love it and am so thankful for it.  I have been blessed beyond measure to meet wonderful, loving individuals along my way who help me, pick me up when I fall, brush me off, calm my fears, and give me strength.  I know that there are angels seen and unseen here upon the earth, sent to help me, you, each of us as we go about our days.

Thank you for your notes of encouragement...I feel selfish in the fact that I was sharing my story with the hope that maybe I could help someone who may read my blog, but you have been the ones to help me and I am so thankful to you.  It seems that with the start of this school year, I have been feeling the empty-nest syndrome as my little one is gone from me for the majority of each day.  This is nothing new as she's been in school now for 4 years, but for some reason this year hit especially hard.  As mothers it seems that our identity, our purpose, and fulfillment come from taking care of other little souls, creating a home for them, and tending to all of their needs.  All of the sudden, my home became empty and my little one gone from me, and I didn't know what my purpose was anymore.  And, from those feelings of confusion came a whole onslaught of other feelings, which I recognize and have put in their proper place.  

I will find my way....onto the next chapter, the next season of life, and I will find joy in the journey, and will expand my circle of love and make sure that it continues to grow and extend to those who are waiting.

I don't know if any of that makes sense...but, it makes perfect sense to me and writing it down helps.  Today has been a wonderful day filled with uplifting experiences and messages and I know I am loved and not alone in how I feel.  One thing I am most thankful for is to have the opportunity to feel and experience the incredible love I have for my little one and husband.  That in itself is such a gift.  To give love and get it back is such a joy.  And, one day my little girl will read my thoughts and hopefully come to understand my love for her....the love that could never, ever end, the love that fills my days and nights, and that is indescribable.  I know she'll feel that very same love for her own little ones some day too.

Today's cards are what happens when I dig in and just create for me and let it all come spilling out...yikes :)  It felt so good.  I'm going to do it again.

I used sweet and shabby supplies from Frost it Pink, Melissa Frances and Maya Road and a bit from the ohDEERme August Freckled Fawn kit.  I've got all of the supplies listed for you below.

Thank you again!  Hope you have a wonderful Monday.

Melis

InLinkz.com

happiness.home.hearts full of love.

It doesn't take much to get me excited for fall.  My very most favorite time of year and lately I have felt it in the air and smelled it floating on the breeze in the evenings.  I've been baking muffins and making soups and those things always seem to bring fall on even it it's just in my mind :)

The Harvest Lane line from Simple Stories is my most favorite autumn-ish collection with warm and cozy colors and patterns and while I had muffins in the oven this morning, I pulled out supplies and set to work creating a couple of cards.

Both of these cards use Maya Road chipboard as well as tea stained tags, trim, and scrunched seam binding from My Craft Spot.  

I used some of the fun patterned paper from Harvest Lane and die cut acorns using my Autumn Acorns Papertrey Ink die, Classic Kraft, Simply Chartreuse, and Ocean Tides felt.  

So how about you?  Do you love to hang onto summer and savor it until it's gone, or wish it away and hope for fall to come quickly?  I don't want it to come too quickly, but I will certainly be enjoying it before, during, and after it has come and gone.

I think you should treat yourself to some Harvest Lane...you'll love every last scrap of it!

Today I feel like telling you of my struggles.  I have a feeling your struggles are the same as mine.  I have a problem with being very hard on myself.  Always finding fault with myself, focusing non-stop on my imperfections, mommy guilt that is a part of me seems to never end, and the list goes on.  Maybe it's because I now have more time to think that suddenly I am my own worst enemy...instead of being my own best friend.  I can see so much good in others, yet when it comes to finding my own worth, I think there is none.  I strive and expect perfection in myself...but can't see the sweet and wonderful qualities I have been given because I am always thinking I should be more...do more...and be like someone else.  It's tiring and I have needed a kick in the rear and am giving myself one :)  Today as I knelt for prayers with my little one, another negative thought about myself crossed my mind and I was reminded of something I read...something my brother wrote HERE.  Basically, my negative thoughts regarding myself far outweigh the positive and it isn't good for me, for you, for anyone.  This realization comes at a time when I need it so much.  I have felt the heaviness inside and it leads me nowhere but down and nothing good can come from not loving and accepting myself.  So easy to say, isn't it, but hard to put into practice, but that's just what I'm going to do and I will continue to remind myself to STOP IT!  I need to grow up! :) How about you?  Is it something we all struggle with, and why is it so difficult to love who we are?  

Another wonderful and inspiring individual is Holly Gerth.  A sweet reader of mine directed me to her site a few months back and I love the feeling I get when I take the time to read the uplifting messages left there.

Hope you know you are loved...you have a special purpose, are unique, and wonderful, and special to so many!

Melis

InLinkz.com

hello wednesday...

Adjusting to the new normal, the new routine, enjoying the cool, fall-ish weather, the low clouds, the rain and moisture, catching up on the unimportant items I set aside during summer, and so happy that I did so, thinking of her throughout the day, wishing her happiness and joy and laughter today.

Using my Melissa Frances supplies today...I think these colors are so beautiful.  This card uses the new C'est la Vie paper, dies, and cardstock stickers, 5th Avenue tag, cardstock sticker, and chipboard, vellum envelope, sweet pink crocheted trim, and a resin blossom.  

I needed some leaves to finish off my Maya Road Tea Rose Organza flowers, so I covered a scrap of cardstock with Freckled Fawn Mint Chevron washi tape and die cut a few leaves using my Papertrey Ink die. Love the addition of mint here with the aqua, cream, and shabby pink.

There are always beautiful projects ready to inspire you on the Melissa Frances blog if you're in need of a jump start.  Some days it's hard for me to feel creative, but today, the beautiful products certainly pulled me out of my slump...yep, I get in a creative rut too from time to time :)

My little bean will need a treat when she gets home from school today and I have big, green zucchini squash coming out my ears.  Time to pull out my favorite Zucchini Orange Bread recipe.

 Zucchini Orange Bread
A moist and sunny bread that is great for breakfast

Makes 2 loaves

4 eggs, well beaten (or 1 cup egg substitute)
1½ cups sugar
¾ cup oil
⅔ cup orange juice
2 tsp. orange zest
2 cups grated zucchini 
3¼ cups flour
1½ teaspoons baking powder
1½ teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2½ teaspoons cinnamon
½ teaspoon cloves
½ cup chopped nuts (optional)

Glaze:
1 cup powdered sugar
2-3 tablespoons orange juice

Beat eggs. Add sugar, oil, juice, zest, and zucchini. Mix well. Combine dry ingredients and add to zucchini mixture. Mix well. Place in two greased 8×4 loaf pans. Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes, or until toothpick comes out clean. In a bowl, stir together powdered sugar and just enough orange juice to make a glaze. Drizzle over bread when cool.

Have a wonderful day friends!

Melis

color play...

**Edited to add fabric information.  I used Moda Sophie and Domestic Bliss fabrics.  I purchased both Charm Packs at Ready2Quilt etsy shop.  

I don't want to talk about it....I have the first day of school blues.  I've had them for a couple of weeks now, hoping that when today came, I'd be prepared to deal with my empty house and heart, and so far, OK.  One day at a time.

I created these tag pockets for the beautiful color challenge posted at Emma's Paperie.  

Lots of fun little details and embellishments.  Basic Grey and Studio Calico supplies used throughout along with some May Arts burlap wired ribbon and Inkadinkado stamps.  

A complete supply list can be found on the Emma's Paperie blog.

Today also marks my first Make it Monday video at Papertrey Ink.

I'm showing my technique for die cutting fabric.

These are my fun sample cards using the Fabulous Frames die and my favorite tea-stained Moda Fabric.  

You can watch the video HERE!

Thanks so much for your visit.

Melis

dressed up...

Hi everyone!  A fun project for you today using my favorite thing...Freckled Fawn washi tape!  This card is based on the latest Vintage Cafe Card Challenge sketch.  Be sure to play along if you'd like.

I covered Maya Road Mixed Scallop Mini Chipboard Pendant Banners with washi tape in a couple of different patterns and love how they turned out.  Using washi tape on chipboard is a quick and easy way to dress up chipboard vs. covering it in paper.  After I applied the washi, I distressed the edges with sandpaper and distress ink, just like I would with paper and then added a light coating of glitter.  I love the effect and how it alters the look just a bit.

For this card I used Freckled Fawn's Chevron Mint and Music Note washi...both are currently sold out, but here are a couple of others I am excited to try on a similar card:

Pink Airmail Washi

Blue Doily Washi

Pink Starburst Washi

Seamstress Washi

 

I also used Papertrey Ink's Background Basics:  Postmarks and Say it With Style stamp sets and lovely scrunched seam binding from Craft Spot. The paper and die cut are from Studio Calico and the scalloped chipboard across the top from Basic Grey.

 

Enjoy your Saturday!

Melis

 

 

oDEERme august...

Freckled Fawn's August ohDEERme kit is so much fun!  It's filled with lots of unique and fun little treasures for you to create with and reminds me of an adventure waiting to happen. Here are my projects using this kit.

Sweetest stitched felt balloon ever is included in this kit.  It is from Dogwood Corner.  

Fun Chipboard Alpha Tags are included in the kit too.  The fun vintage Baker's Twine and Vanilla Bean scrunched seam binding are from Craft Spot, not included in the kit, just extra that I added.

Button from Buttons & Badges.  These are the cutest things in the world...you get a variety of images in your kit.

The handmade stitched arrow tag is another fun goodie included and is from Handmade Modern and also graphic tags from Modern Typography.  And, not to mention the most adorable tiny map envelopes from Screaming Scissors.  

Two of these beautiful paper flowers are included in the kit and are from Papers and Petals.  

And...oodles of other vintage finds.  I have to say that the vintage airmail washi is my FAVE!

You can visit the iamdoe blog to find lots of others projects created with this kit.

Happy Thursday!

Melis

papertrey ink august...

Well, here I am again with more Papertrey Ink projects for you.  I'm able to share with you the remaining projects created with the new release sets....all products will be available at 10 P.M. MST on August 15th! This first card uses the new Framed Out #7 stamp set and coordinating die along with the Happy Hexagons set and Cover Plate:  Hexagon die.  

Next we have the new Heart-2-Heart #7 set and coordinating die.  I love these sweet sets and the fact that they are only $5.00 makes them even more lovable, don't you think?

This set has quickly become one of my most favorites...Foodie Fun with coordinating dies.  The images are just sweet and the sentiments are completely fun and unique.  

Lastly, the new Counting My Blessings set with coordinating die along with the new Sunflower Bouquet and Thanks All Ways are all used on this card.  I love how easily Papertrey Ink sets can be combines and interchanged to fit each need.  

I had so much fun creating this month...from fall-ish projects, to spooky sweets, to all occasion.  So, what will you choose?  Happy shopping and thank you for each visit!  I have complete supply lists ready below and please send me a message if you have any questions.  And, remember to stop by and visit the other Papertrey Ink designers as they've posted their projects for you too!

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

Happy Day Card

Papertrey Ink Supplies Used:
Stamps:
Framed Out #7, Happy Hexagons
Ink:
Sweet Blush, Aqua Mist, Spring Moss, Hawaiian Shores, Simply Chartreuse, and Hibiscus Burst
Cardstock:
Rustic Cream
Accents:
Sweet Blush Grosgrain, Vintage Cream and Harvest Gold felt, Fine Linen buttons
Tools:
Cover Plate: Hexagons, Love Lives Here, Framed Out #7, Buttoned Up #2, and Beautiful Blooms II #3 dies

Other Supplies Used:
Crate Paper paper

 

Just a Note Card

Papertrey Ink Supplies Used:
Stamps:
Heart-2-Heart #7 and Sunflower Bouquet
Ink:
Hawaiian Shores, Orange Zest, Hibiscus Burst, and Simply Chartreuse
Cardstock:
Lemon Tart
Tools:
Medium Scallop Border, Heart-2-Heart #7 dies
Accents:
Hibiscus Burst Grosgrain, Summer Sunrise and Harvest Gold buttons

Other Supplies Used:
Freckled Fawn washi tape
Studio Calico paper
Pebbles inc. paper
Prima gems

 

Delicious Day Card Trio

Papertrey Ink Supplies Used:
Stamps:
Foodie Fun
Ink:
Raspberry Fizz, Harvest Gold, and Dark Chocolate
Cardstock:
Sweet Blush, Rustic Cream
Tools:
Foodie Fun, Small Scalloped Border, The Sweet Life, and Flipping Out dies
Accents:
Raspberry Fizz satin, Hibiscus Burst and Simply Chartreuse felt

Other Supplies Used:
Pink Paislee, Studio Calico, and Crate Paper paper
Stickles glitter
Doodlebug gems

 

Thankful to Have You in My Life Card

Papertrey Ink Supplies Used:
Stamps:
Counting My Blessings, Sunflower Bouquet, and Thanks All Ways
Ink:
Sweet Blush, Canyon Clay, and Aqua Mist
Cardstock:
Kraft, Rustic Cream, and Fine Linen Bitty Dot
Accents:
Canyon Class buttons, Hawaiian Shores, Melon Berry, Aqua Mist, and Harvest Gold felt
Tools:
Tiny Tags, Counting My Blessings, Lovely Layers, and Beautiful Blooms II #3, and Edgers dies #3

Other Supplies Used:
Doodlebug glitter
Freckled Fawn washi tape
Studio Calico paper

 

teach & inspire...

Creating teacher gifts and cards takes on a whole new meaning as I see my little one blossom and grow in amazing ways with each new teacher she has.  I am so thankful for them and for the way they love and teach her.  The new Teach & Inspire stamp set is just as special as all of those amazing teachers we've all encountered throughout our lives.  Today the Papertrey Ink team is highlighting this new set, so let's get started.

This first project is a mini file folder created from Kraft cardstock and the Edgers #5 die collection.  I stapled the sides to form a pocket where I could stash some fun treats Sierra made just for her teacher....you'll love them...she loves them.  Keep reading :) 

I stamped the sentiment in True Black ink and embellished the front of the file folder with patterned paper, Harvest Gold Swiss Dot, die cut flowers, Simply Chartreuse felt, and a die cut, stamped apple...both from the new Teach & Inspire stamp set.  The apple is stamped in Pure Poppy and New Leaf ink and was cut from Kraft cardstock.

The sentiments in this set just shine...I love them. I die cut glitter tape from Freckled Fawn to dress up the file folder tab a bit and added a stamped Tiny Tag and metal paper clip.

I filled small glassine bags with Sierra's handmade treats and slipped them inside the file folder.  A couple of tags were created to embellish the bags a bit.  One uses the Teacher's Apple coordinating die used before and the second uses the Tiny Tag die.

Oh, and here are her little masterpieces!  We melted down some of her old crayons to form heart-shaped crayons.  I think they're darling.  I found that by keeping the colors in the same color group made for much cuter hearts...too many colors mixed together and the hearts turned out brownish, blackish.  If you want to try some on your own, just break crayons into small pieces (I used scissors and it made it so much easier) then drop the pieces into silicone heart shaped muffin tins, pop them in the oven at 250 degrees for about 10 minutes.  Cool them for about 10 minutes and then place them in the freezer for another 5 minutes.  

Next up is a card which uses several images from this set.  I began with the stamped images across the bottom in Harvest Gold and Spring Moss.  Background Basics:  Herringbone was stamped across the top in Spring Moss.

Next came the Fabulous Frame die cut from denim paper and matted onto patterned paper.  The tree is stamped in Classic Kraft, Harvest Gold, and Pure Poppy, with the sentiment stamped in Dark Chocolate.  The banner across the bottom was created with the Tiny Tags die, Modern Alphabet Lower, and images from this fun set.  

A teacher name tag peeks up from the top and a bit of washi tape from Freckled Fawn secures the corners.

Can't wait to see what the other designers have ready for us all!

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

Thanks again for visiting!

Melis

A Dream Begins Mini File Folder Pocket

Supplies Used:

Stamps:
Teach & Inspire

Cardstock:
Classic Kraft and Rustic Cream

Ink:

Pure Poppy, New Leaf, and True Black

Tools:

Beautiful Blooms II #1, Notched Flower, Edgers #5, Tiny Tags, Teacher's Apples dies

Accents:

Pure Poppy button and Baker's Twine, Simply Chartreuse and Harvest Gold felt

Packaging:

Small Glassine Bags

Additional Supplies Used:
Pebbles Inc., October Afternoon, and Crate Paper paper

Freckled Fawn washi and glitter tape 

 

Thank You Teacher Card

Supplies Used:

Stamps:

Teach & Inspire, Background Basics:  Herringbone

Cardstock:
Classic Kraft and Rustic Cream

Ink:
Dark Chocolate, Harvest Gold, Spring Moss, Enchanted Evening, Pure Poppy

Tools:
Fabulous Frames, Modern Alphabet Lowercase, Tiny Tags dies

Accents:
Enchanted Evening Baker's Twine and Harvest Gold button

Other Supplies Used:
October Afternoon, Simple Stories, and Crate Paper paper

Freckled Fawn washi tape

Stickles glitter

 

halloween inspiration...

Halloween is right up there at the top of my list of holidays I most enjoy creating for...it's such a playful holiday and I love indulging in the fun associated with it from creepy to spooky, to sweet and funny.  Our first group post as a Papertrey Ink team is loaded with Halloween inspiration for you as three new sets will be highlighted by each of us.

This first card uses the new Mr. Bones stamp set and coordinating dies...IRRESISTIBLE I tell you!  I first started with a Canyon Clay cardstock base and added patterned paper across the bottom.  I die cut the web, skeleton, pumpkin, and tag from Rustic Cream cardstock and stamped the images in True Black and Orange Zest.

I used the Favor It Box 6 die and trimmed off the sides and bottom in order to use only the front.  The Shape Up Series:  Pumpkin die was used to die cut the eyes and mouth from Vintage Cream felt and I added a bit of handstitching to the felt just to add a bit of character.  Before adhering the pumpkin to the card, I added Mr. Bones to the inside of the bucket.  The sentiment was stamped to a Tiny Tag and secured with Orange Zest Saddle Stitched ribbon and a second sentiment was stamped  in Watermark ink near the upper left corner to finish it off.

I created this tag using the new Happy Haunting set....such a fun set to get crafty with and perfect for children as well as they can build their own monsters!  I began with Royal Velvet Stripe and Orange Zest Polka dot paper die cut using Mat Stack 3 and Mega Mat Stack 3 dies.  

My monster was cut from Dotty Biscotti paper and stamped in Classic Kraft and True Black ink and was bottled up inside a jar die cut using the Friendship Jar Summer Fillers die.  I created a little hocus pocus magic coming out of the jar using the Super Stars stamp set and a bit of glitter.

Another new addition this release is the Spider Web Trio die set...oh, you'll love these dies.  I used the smallest web on this tag and embellished the center with a lavender gem.  Hibiscus Burst and Simply Chartreuse felt stars were cut using the Seeing Stars die and embellished with buttons and the tag was finished off the a sentiment from the stamp set and Orange Zest Grosgrain.  I attached it to a Small Frosted Tin Tie Bag.

Tremendous Treat lovers BEWARE!  You'll love the new Tremendous Treats:  Halloween set... I sure do.  One of my favorite images from the set is the cauldron, so I've used it on this Small White Gable Box.  

I created a banner by using the Double Ended Banner Die stamped with the sentiment from the set and folded over a vintage black pearl trinket pin tucked inside a tulle bow.

A double layer of die cut spider webs became my base for layering on the cauldron and were cut from white cardstock and Smokey Shadow Bitty Dot.  The image was stamped in True Black on white cardstock and then once more on Canyon Clay cardstock which I cut out and adhered to the original image.  The magic potion was dressed up a bit with glitter. A strip of Orange Zest Gingham was die cut using the Super Star Border die and was adhered across the bottom of the box and topped with Orange Zest and Plum Pudding Buttons.

So.....ready to bring on Halloween?  May as well enjoy it as we have 2 1/2 months to enjoy creating for it :)

The other Papertrey Ink designers have projects just waiting for you to soak in:

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

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Melis

 

Eek!  Card

Supplies Used:
Stamps:

Mr. Bones

Cardstock:

Canyon Clay, True Black, and Rustic Cream

Ink:
True Black, Orange Zest, and Watermark

Tools:
Mr. Bones, Tiny Tags, Shape Up Series:  Pumpkin, and Favor It Box 6 dies

Accents:
Orange Zest Saddle Stitched Ribbon, Vintage Cream felt

Additional supplies:
Graphic 45 paper 

 

Boo To You!  Tag

Supplies Used:
Stamps:
Happy Haunting and Super Stars

Cardstock and Paper:
Royal Velvet Stripe, Orange Zest Polka Dot, White and Spring Moss cardstock

Ink:

Classic Kraft, Hawaiian Shores, and True Black

Tools:
Mat Stack and Mega Mat Stack 3, Spider Web Trio, Happy Haunting, and Seeing Stars dies

Accents:
Hawaiian Shores and Simply Chartreuse felt, Summer Sunrise buttons, Orange Zest Grosgrain

 

Trick or Treat Gable Box

Supplies Used:
Stamps:
Tremendous Treats:  Halloween

Cardstock and Paper:
White and Canyon Clay cardstock, Smokey Shadow Bitty Dot, Orange Zest Gingham, Summer Sunrise Stripe paper

Ink:
True Black

Tools:
Limitless Layers 1 3/4" Circle, Spider Web Trio, Double Ended Banner, Super Star Border dies

Accents:
Plum Pudding and Orange Zest buttons 

 

 

introducing: autumn hills, background basics: herringbone, and & think big favorites #19...

Hi there!  What a pitiful blogger I've turned out to be lately.  Summer is on its last leg so I'm trying to soak up every last lazy day with my little girl before she heads back to school.  Today I bring you introductions to a few of Papertrey Ink's newest sets, all available to purchase at 10pm Eastern time on August 15th, 2012.

I LOVE the sweet new Autumn Hills set...kind of feel like it was made just for me as its focus is on the country, farmhouses, pumpkins on porches, and autumn leaves.  All things I love of course and look forward to welcoming each fall.  

This first card's focus is on an autumn birthday and uses a Rustic Cream cardstock base that has been stamped in Sweet Blush with the new Background Basics:  Herringbone stamp set.  I stamped the trees and sentiment directly on top of the background using Autumn Rose ink with the pumpkins stamped in Melon Berry.  I love this combination of colors and that it adds a different twist to the traditional fall colors.

I added some color to the leaves by using a few Copic markers and then added a trim of Melon Berry Gingham paper die cut using the Small Scalloped Border die.  Layers of felt flowers in Vintage Cream, Melon Berry, and Autumn Rose were added last with Autumn Rose Saddle stitched ribbon used as leaves.

This next card uses the Think Big Favorites #19 set, which I think is so beautiful.  I love that it has been paired with a beautiful frame and perfect sentiments for this time of year and others.  Other new additions here are the Shape Up Series:  Pumpkin dies...definite must haves and love at first sight kind of dies I tell you!  I used both dies on this card, one being the solid background which was cut from Rustic Cream cardstock and embossed using the new Herringbone Impression Plate.  The other layer is the negative space left from the sectioned die.  I used Dotty Biscotti patterned paper and just adhered the negative cut over the solid base and trimmed off the excess.  

The sentiment was stamped in Ripe Avocado ink, the frame in Dark Chocolate, and the pumpkins from the Autumn Hills set stamped in Orange Zest.  The Limitless Layers 2 1/2" Circle die collection fits this frame and sentiment perfectly.  The card was finished by adding buttons in Ripe Avocado.

I woke up early this morning to make some Chocolate Chocolate Chip Banana Bread for my little family and before it disappeared, wrapped up a mini loaf to share with you using both the Autumn Hills and Think Big Favorites #19 stamp sets.  

Dotty Biscotti paper was used once again on this project along with the Mega Mat Stack 2 die, cut from Kraft cardstock and stamped in Pure Poppy using the frame from the Think Big Favorites #19 set.

The next layer uses the Mat Stack 4 die cut from patterned paper and is topped with an image from the Autumn Hills set stamped in Dark Chocolate and colored in a bit using Copic Markers.  I stamped "Enjoy" across the top using Classic Kraft ink.  Fine Linen Grosgrain and buttons wrap up the bundle and then to finish it all off, a Tiny Tag stamped with another sentiment from the Autumn Hills set and secured with Pure Poppy Baker's Twine.

Lastly, I used the Shape Up Series:  Pumpkin B die once again, but cut a variety of patterns and colors in order to form rolling hills where I could perch my farmhouse from the Autumn Hills set.  It is stamped in Scarlet Jewel ink with the tree stamped in Orange Zest.

The clouds were die cut from Rustic Cream cardstock using the Heart-2-Heart #6 die collection and were stamped using the Background Basics:  Herringbone stamp set in Classic Kraft and are topped with a Vintage Cream button.

The sentiment was stamped in Dark Chocolate ink and a strip of Scarlet Jewel Saddle stitched ribbon finishes it all off!

Thanks so much for visiting me today.  Are you ready for fall or blissfully enjoying your last few summer days?  Be sure to stop by the following blogs for more introductions to new stamp set and products available from Papertrey Ink.

Nichole Heady, Danielle Flanders, Dawn McVey, and Maile Belles.

Melis

Happy Autumn Birthday Card

Supplies Used:
Stamps:

Autumn Hills and Background Basics:  Herringbone

Cardstock and Paper:
Rustic Cream, Melon Berry Gingham, and Studio Calico

Ink:
Autumn Rose, Melon Berry

Tools:
Small Scalloped Border, Heart Prints, Buttoned Up #2, Beautiful Blooms II #1 dies

Accents:
Autumn Rose Saddlestitched Ribbon, Melon Berry, Vintage Cream, and Autumn Rose felt

 

Thankful For You Card 

Supplies Used:
Stamps:
Think Big Favorites #19

Cardstock and Paper:
Rustic Cream, Dotty Biscotti, Simple Stories, and Crate Paper 

Ink:
Ripe Avocado, Dark Chocolate, and Orange Zest

Tools:
Shape Up Series:  Pumpkin dies, Limitless Layers 2 1/2" Circles, Sweet Life dies.

Accents:
Ripe Avocado Buttons

 

 Enjoy Bread Wrap

Supplies Used:
Stamps:
Autumn Hills, Think Big Favorites #19

Cardstock and Paper:
Classic Kraft, Rustic Cream, Dotty Biscotti, and October Afternoon

Ink:
Pure Poppy, Classic Kraft, and Dark Chocolate

Tools:
Mat Stack 4, Mega Mat Stack 2, and Tiny Tags

Accents:

Fine Linen Grosgrain and buttons, Pure Poppy Bakers Twine

 

Autumn Wishes Card

Supplies Used:
Stamps:
Autumn Hills, Background Basics:  Herringbone

Cardstock and Paper:
Classic Kraft, Rustic Cream, Dotty Biscotti, and Simple Stories

Ink:
Scarlet Jewel, Dark Chocolate, and Orange Zest

Tools:
Heart-2-Heart #6, Shape Up Series:  Pumpkin dies

Accents:
Scarlet Jewel Saddlestitched Ribbon and Vintage Cream button 

 

 

 

my friends...

Just popping in for a minute tonight.  I have a little time on my hands, waiting for my crew to get home as they've had a daddy/daughter day today.  A few months ago, there was a beautiful challenge photo on the Nichole Heady's blog that I just had to try, but never got around to posting.

The colors and patterns are so beautiful and definitely outside of my norm.  

I used the Remember stamp set along with Friendship Jar for the sentiment and lots of assorted flower dies such as Notched flowers, Bloom Builders II #1, Flower Fusion #3, etc.  The sentiment was stamped on a tag cut using the Tiny Tags die and the scrunched seam binding is Spring Moss from Craft Spot.

And one more, using that same sentiment from Friendship Jar...clearly one of my favorites.  This card uses oodles of Maya Road including one of my very most favorite stamp sets, Our Town.  I also used a Mini Kraft Jotter tag and a sweet Metal Love Hanger.

Hope your week is off to a great start!

Thanks for your visit.

Melis

 

P.S.  Witches Brew Kits are available for preorder in my etsy if you're itching to get started on Halloween!

pockets and pails...

Summer is winding down, I feel it, my Little Bean feels it, and the butterflies are starting to flutter around in her tummy as she gets ready to head back to school.  I love listening to her describe her feelings, telling me all about the butterflies and how they fly around inside her tummy and can't decide which side to go on and how she's scared and nervous and excited about so many things all at once.  This is a magical age.

This week we learned that she needs glasses.  I have never seen anyone so happy to be getting glasses in my entire life.  I certainly wasn't happy about getting them when I was her age, but I didn't have cute pink with hearts, and black with flowers, and oodles of other choices to pick from when I needed them oh, so many years ago. :)  She can hardly sleep and just about cries because the time isn't passing quickly enough until they're ready....little cutie.

This first card set was created for Emma's Paperie.  Our challenge was to use misting of some sort and so I aged Baker's Twine for both of these cards by misting them with Glimmer Mist.  I love how easy it was to do and will most certainly by trying it again.  I used Clam Bake by Tattered Angels.

I love these sweet seed pockets and stickers from Jenni Bowlin and the photo frames from Heidi Swapp are a new favorite find of mine.

You can find a list of all of the supplies I used on these cards on the Emma's Paperie blog.

Lastly, a treat pail for a birthday boy, embellished with all sorts of fun things, Cakewalk paper, Story Teller chipboard, Jenni Bowlin chipboard buttons, May Arts wired burlap ribbon, American Craft wooden buttons, and Freckled Fawn Vintage Ticket Stub Washi Tape.  

The sentiment is from Inkadinkado's Vintage Expressions stamp set and is stamped on a metal tag found HERE.

I'm busily packing up scrapbooking/papercrafting care package boxes filled with stamp sets, paper, stickers, chipboard, and embellishments.  Each box will be different, each a surprise, each filled to the brim with things I can't use anymore.  I'll be listing these care packages in my etsy shop very soon!

Thanks so much for your visit and have a wonderful weekend!

Melis

washi talk...

I know of a giveaway and had to come tell you!

Word Art Wednesday has a challenge up on their blog with a Freckled Fawn $15 Gift Certificate up for grabs...thought you might want to check it out.

And, for all of you washi addicts, Freckled Fawn's August Washi Tape Anonymous Seminars start today!

Here's a peek at a few of the classes...I've created some fun projects to share with you and you'll find oodles of projects from other designers included as well.  So, be sure to check it out!

Before I go, and since we're talking washi today, a quick card to share with you using Freckled Fawn's Heart and Small Tape Measure washi along with tea-stained Moda fabric, Fancy Pants chipboard, American Crafts buttons, Tim Holtz ticket and metal clip, and a Maya Road wooden button paint in Krylon Catalina Mist paint.

Thanks for visiting!

Melis

leaf prints revisited...

Where did July go?  Time passes so quickly lately and here we are welcoming August once again.  The Sr. Team at Papertrey Ink are revisiting the Leaf Prints stamp set...one of my favorite because of yes, you guessed it, my love of all things autumn.  I chose to try and use this set in a couple of non-traditional ways just to trick my own brain in to thinking I didn't have to hide it away and use it only for fall projects and in the months of October and November...I feel so much better now :)

I created a heart shaped wreath wrapped in wired burlap and embellished with die-cut and hand stamped leaves.  Some leaves are cut from Vintage Cream felt, others from vellum, a couple from Vintage Cream cardstock and stamped in Sweet Blush with a light dusting of Mica Flakes, and then lastly, a few cut from Dearest Jane patterned paper and embossed in gold.

I love that the Leaf Prints stamp set has a coordinating die collection available...makes creating dimensional projects such a breeze.

This project was inspired by an oh, so beautiful wreath I have had pinned for a few months now...I adore the original, created by someone I have long admired, Catherine Scanlon.

(photo from spottedcanary)

My next project uses Leaf Prints and coordinating dies on a card and was inspired by another Pinterest lovely...

(photo from danamadeit)

I used Spring Moss, Sweet Blush, and Classic Kraft ink, and Autumn Rose felt.  The Guide Lines Grid Impression Plate was used after my stamping, and then the Edgers #3 die was used along the bottom edge to dress it up a bit.  The Fresh Alphabet stamp set was used to spell out "You" and after die cutting the leaf from Autumn Rose felt, I used the Heart Prints die collection and cut a heart out of the leaf and then added that heart to stand in place of the letter "O".  

Once again I used the negative space left from my Modern Alphabet die along with the Tiny Tags die collection, and the Little Bitty Bird stamp set and an image from the First Fruits stamp set.  A tiny touch of Dearest Jane and Fine Linen Gingham brought in just enough pattern and character to finish it all off.

Be sure to stop by the blogs of the other Sr. Team members to see what they've created for you:

Betsy Veldman

Dawn McVey

Heather Nichols

Maile Belles

 

Enjoy your day!

Melis