Mar 12 2015

Background Basics!!!

Posted on March 12, 2015 by Laura's Stamp Pad

Have you started to notice my love for bright colors and rainbows??? You can check out my other rainbow creation here! I just love bright colors and why not use all of the colors??? I created this beautiful card with the Sheltering Tree Stamp Set from the Occasions Mini Catalog! That fabulous little snowflake/dot image is what I used to create the background. I did my best to match ROY G BIV – Real Red, Pumpkin Pie, Daffodil Delight, Old Olive, Pacific Point, Bermuda Bay, and Elegant Eggplant. Start on one corner (like one image in from the corner) and stamp diagonal. I stamped with image taller rather than wider. After doing that first line, I filled in the corner with the same color (Real Red to start and Elegant Eggplant to finish). Then just keep going through the colors, stamping 1 row each per color! If you feel like you aren’t going straight, you can always take a scrap piece of paper and use it as a guide. I layered this piece onto a Daffodil Delight card base. For the Greeting, I used the Age Awareness Stamp Set and used my markers in the same colors and colored the greeting! You could always pick your favorite color and do a solid greeting as well. I then layered that greeting on some Bermuda Bay and added it to the card with Stampin’ Dimensionals! Love it!!!!

You can use this stamp for lots of different backgrounds for any project – memory keeping, cards, treat boxes, tags, and more! Let me know in the comment below which colors you would use for your background – rainbow?? Just 2 colors?? Just 1 color??

To check out more samples using the Sheltering Tree Stamp Set, click here!

Happy Stampin’

~Laura

Mar 11 2015

A Card For Every Season!

Posted on March 11, 2015 by Laura's Stamp Pad

Have you seen the Sheltering Tree Stamp Set in the Occasions Mini Catalog? It is fabulous! I really wanted it when the catalog came out but thought….”no, I have Lovely As A Tree.” So I waited about a month and a half and the more I saw samples using this set, the more I needed it! I am so glad I got it! It is super fun and versatile! The card above is my winter card using Pool Party and Real Red. I added in some Dazzling Details to really make the snow sparkle! I love it!!

My Spring Tree makes me so happy because it is PINK! I used Blushing Bride for the card base and the tree uses Blushing Bride and Strawberry Slush! The “grass” is Pear Pizzazz and all of my trees are done in Chocolate Chip!

This is my Summer Tree because of the bike but you could always flip flop my Spring and Summer Trees or add flowers to the Spring Tree Card. Riding bikes always takes me back to childhood because that is what we did as children all day and all night. I remember my mom calling us in to take baths as we were riding our bikes in circles by the light out by the shed. Love it!!! I used Crumb Cake and Rose Red cardstock. For the stamped images, I used Mossy Meadow for the grass, flower stems, and leaves (stamping off to get those different shades). The flowers were done in Rose Red and the bike was done with Soft Suede and Pacific Point. I did another bike with Basic Black for the base and it POPPED so much more so I would recommend black rather than brown for the bike!

Then we have our Fall Tree. I used Cajun Craze and Crushed Curry cardstock and some Linen Tread to add to the rustic look! The Tree uses Cajun Craze, Rose Red and Crushed Curry for the leaves. You can stamp the leaves in full strength for a richer look or stamp off once and then onto your tree for a more subtle look.

You could always make up a few of each of these to have on hand for all of your card needs during that season. All of your Birthdays in that season, get this card. They would also make perfect Thinking of You cards, Thank You, and even Sympathy. I love it!!! Don’t think I stopped there with this stamp set either. Be sure to check back as I will be posting so more fun cards using the Sheltering Tree Stamp Set later this week and next week! Afraid you might forget to check back? Subscribe to my blog along the right side and you will get an email every time I post something new!!! How fabulous is that?!?!?

Happy Stampin’

~Laura

Mar 10 2015

Technique Tuesday – Iris Fold!!!

Posted on March 10, 2015 by Laura's Stamp Pad

Happy Tuesday!!! You know what that means….I have a fabulous technique to share with you today!!! I love this one because it creates an amazing look AND it uses little scraps (who doesn’t have millions of those laying around)!!!!

Need a third reason to create this card? It makes a great Man Card!!!! Now lets get started on how I created this!!!!

SUPPLIES NEEDED: Scraps of Paper, 2-1/2″ Circle Punch, Stampin’ Dimensionals

You will start with a piece of Whisper White cardstock measuring 4″ x 5-1/4″ and using your 2-1/2″ Circle Punch push it all the way in on right side and center it top to bottom and punch!!! Now apply Snail or Fast Fuse around the circle and start laying your strips of cardstock down. I used Pacific Point, Old Olive, and Basic Gray in the card above. The strips are about 2 inches long (or less) and maybe a 1/4″ wide. Again you can use any type of scrap because no one is going to see the back and you will just lay one down and then the next color and the next. You can do them close together or farther part just be sure that the strip crosses over the other color and that you can’t see light between the strip and the punched circle. Once you have done the first layer, you will add Stampin’ Dimensionals at each cross section and then start in with the second layer. If you need to add in more Stampin Dimensionals, that’s no problem and if you end up not using on that was already placed down, no worries there either. It will help with adhering this piece to your card front! Once you have completed the second round, you are all done!!! At this point you can add ribbon or stamping or any embellishments to the left hand side or leave it black like mine above. Add a few more Stampin’ Dimensionals to the corners and attach it to your card base (I used Old Olive above)! After that piece is in place, you will stamp your greeting. Be sure the greeting is going to fit in the hole. The greeting used above was from Remembering Your Birthday and the coordinating greeting is stamped on the inside! Love it! Simple, quick, Man Card and uses up those scraps!!!

Here is another sample using Calypso Coral, Crisp Cantaloupe and Pink Pirouette. I added in some Calypso Coral Seam Binding and the greeting is from Simply Wonderful which is a free Sale-A-Bration item! You can still earn this stamp set for FREE with a $50 (US) order placed through the end of this month! Shop here and you will also earn points as a Laura’s Loyal Stamper!!!!

Want to see this Technique in action??? Check out my video tutorial below and don’t forget to give it a thumbs up if you like it!!!

Happy Stampin’

~Laura

Mar 9 2015

February Paper Pumpkin!!!

Posted on March 9, 2015 by Laura's Stamp Pad

Have I told you how much I LOVE Paper Pumpkin???? I LOVE PAPER PUMPKIN….lots and lots! It is so much fun from the beginning to the end. It arrives in the mail in an orange box so that is exciting! You open it up not knowing what is inside. I love surprises! It is wrapped in tissue paper like a present (every month)! There are so many goodies inside!!!! It is just super fabulous and if you want to hear my excitement, you can check out this video of me opening the box for the first time!

Here is everything that I created! I did save back a 2 more white long cards and 2 boxes because I want to make a mini album out of at least one of them. I need to print some pictures that would be perfect for the little cards. How cute would it be to have a little brag book in your purse of your children, grandchildren or nieces and nephews? Precious!!! There is also a ton of Baker’s Twine that I will use for the packaging of these cards!

So this is a card just like the instructions that were provided in the box! Super cute and so much fun! Then my mind went crazy creative and I made these…….

How fabulous would this be….have everyone in the office or in your family or in your girl’s group write something after the “I just wanted to say…”. That is amazing! These cards would also be great cards to send to someone as a get well because they make a great display card to brighten up any room! Also, did you see how I used the H and I from the THANKS letters provided!!! 🙂

Then I cut 2 of the white folded pieces into little mini cards! This was so much fun to decorate each little mini card. I created a few Monogram Cards for some upcoming birthdays! NOTE: The little boxes are perfect for dropping a mini card and a gift card in there for a gift! Love it!!!

Here is a little bundle of cards and one of the boxes all decorated! Perfect little gift for a hostess, co-worker, friend, or just about anyone!

I can’t wait to see what the March Kit is going to have in it! Any guesses??? Leave me a comment down below on what you think? Are you not a Paper Pumpkin Subscriber? What are you waiting for? Sign up TODAY to get the March Kit but clicking here! Want lots of fun, a great bargain and FREE STUFF? Purchase the 3 Month Pre-Paid Subscription for just $54.85. That is a $5 discount AND you earn a Free Sale-A-Bration item!!! Woot Woot!

Happy Stampin’

~Laura

Mar 8 2015

Laura’s Loyal Stampers!!!!

Posted on March 8, 2015 by Laura's Stamp Pad

I’m so excited to start this new program on my blog – Laura’s Loyal Stampers!!!! I am now rewarding you even more when you follow my blog and place an online order through me!!!! Introducing Laura’s Loyal Stampers!!!!

You will see this fabulous little icon on the right hand side of my blog just below the Subscribe Section and Search Section!!! When you click on that icon you can see all of the information about being one of Laura’s Loyal Stampers!!! So what is this special club??

You will start earning more FREE stuff from me when you follow my blog and place an online order with me!!! For every $25 you spend (orders must be $25 or more and before Shipping & Tax to count), you will earn 1 point. Orders cannot be combined to total $25. For example: At $25, you will earn 1 point. At $50, you will earn 2 points. You will continue to earn points for every $25 increment afterwards. Orders of $150 or more will receive 6 or more points as well as Hostess Freebies!

You can then cash in your points however you wish:
4 Points – 5 Hand-Stamped Greeting Cards made by ME!
8 Points – Your Choice of Ribbon (up to $8.95 value)
12 Points – Paper Snips & Bone Folder ($16.90 value)
16 Points – Your Choice of Stamp Set (up to $24.95 value)
20 Points – Your Choice of Stamp Set (any value)

How to redeem your Points?
I will keep track of your Points and email you when you have hit 4 Points. You will then have to let me know if you wish to cash in your points at that time or hold on to them. Your points will expire one year from the initial purchase date.

Be sure when you are placing your order online, that you are checking YES in the box stating “Allow my demonstrator to contact me with order updates and other important information.” If the box is checked “NO”, I won’t know who placed the order and you will not receive any points or a Thank You Note from me for your order!

Are you ready? Go check out My Online Store (or click Shop Now along the top of this page) and become one of Laura’s Loyal Stampers and start earning points!!!

You can shop by clicking here or you can always click the links in my blog posts for the supplies that I used. When you go to check out, you will need to log in as a customer. Be sure to write down the email and password you enter so you can shop with me in the future. I do not have access to your online information because this is your personal shopping account information. Orders of $150 or more will receive Hostess Benefits, be sure to select those Freebies before completing your order.

I can’t wait to send you a Thank You card and start tallying your points for FREE stuff!!!

Happy Shoppin’

~Laura

Mar 6 2015

Fabulous Friday!!!

Posted on March 6, 2015 by Laura's Stamp Pad

Happy Friday!!! I am super excited because it is suppose to be warm this weekend (and no snow storm in the forecast). Can I get a Woot Woot??? Also, it is my niece’s birthday and we are going shopping and celebrating all weekend long!!! But first……

This week’s Weekly Deals are all about Gift Packaging!!!! Now is the time to stock up on these while they are on sale. You know you will need them for Mother’s Day, Easter, End of the School Year Parties, Birthdays, Teacher Gifts, and St. Patrick’s Day!!!!! My favorite are the Gusseted Cellophane Bags because they are the perfect size and they expand and just package up so perfectly!!! Don’t want to come up with your own decoration? Be sure to get the A Little Sumthin’ Sumthin’ Gift Box Kit! It is perfect!!!

I wanted to let you know about the status of Blendabilities! They are not available right now due to a quality issue. Stampin’ Up! wants to make sure we are getting an amazing product and they found an issue with some of the markers. As of right now, you can not purchase or redeem Sale-A-Bration Rewards on Blendabilities. I’m sorry for this inconvenience and I’m right there with you waiting for the day we can order them again!!! I’ll keep you updated!

One more thing before I’m off…..be sure to check back next week as I will be unveiling a fabulous new program called Laura’s Loyal Stampers!!!! You can earn free stuff when you place an online order with me!!!!

I hope you all have an amazing weekend and I’ll see you next week! 🙂

Happy Stampin’

~Laura

Mar 5 2015

Simply Wonderful!!!

Posted on March 5, 2015 by Laura's Stamp Pad

This card is Simply Wonderful!!! I am having so much fun with the Irresistibly Yours Designer Series Paper from Sale-A-Bration. You can create so many amazing looks. I have a card base of Crumb Cake! Then I cut my Designer Series Paper into 3-3/4″ x 5″ pieces and added color with my Sponge Daubers. Love them! Here I used Tempting Turquoise! I layered that onto a piece of Tempting Turquoise measuring 3-7/8″ x 5-1/8″ and attached it to my card. For the greeting, I used my Simply Wonderful Stamp Set which is also in the Sale-A-Bration Brochure and punched it out with the Decorative Label Punch! Quick, Simple, and Fabulous!!!

This one was done with Mossy Meadow and would make a fabulous Man Card! 🙂

This one was created with Perfect Plum! I love it! I don’t always get this color out but I really like the softer purple for this card. It goes very well with the Crumb Cake and this time of year!!!! Which one is your favorite? Leave me a comment down below!

If you want to check out more samples using the Irresistibly Yours Designer Series Paper, click here and here and here! If you would like to see how to color this paper, check out this video!

Happy Colorin’

~Laura

Mar 4 2015

On The Fence!!!

Posted on March 4, 2015 by Laura's Stamp Pad

This fence card creates endless possibilities for cards or projects that you could create! Of course I added flowers to mine and made it a little girly but you could always do it in blues or greens and create a more masculine card! You could use this Hardwood Stamp on boxes or baskets for a wooden or fence look. Now let’s get started. First off I started with a Pistachio Pudding card base. Then I took a piece of Baked Brown Sugar and stamped the Hardwood Stamp on top with Chocolate Chip ink. Using your Paper Snips (or the tip of you Tree Punch or corner of a Square Punch) and cut out little “V’s” between each wooden plank. Now you can place this piece on your card front. You can use Stampin’ Dimensionals or have it lay flat. I took another piece of Baked Brown Sugar (wide enough for at least 2 wood panels) and stamped the image again for my cross bar pieces. Cut the wooden planks out and I do recommend these be added to your fence with Stampin’ Dimensionals. When I laid them on the fence flat, they blended in too much and didn’t pop! Now you have your fence and can decorate as you wish! I stamped the Thank You from the Lots of Thanks Stamp Set in Strawberry Slush and punched it out with the Decorative Label Punch! I added some punched flowers using my Itty Bitty Punch Pack in Strawberry Slush and Crisp Cantaloupe! The greenery was created with the Bird Builder Punch! Love it! It would also make a great Easter Card! That is coming up on April 5th!

How would you decorate your fence? Leave me a comment down below! I would love to hear your ideas and inspiration!

Happy Stampin’

~Laura

Mar 3 2015

Technique Tuesday – Beautiful Bokeh!!!

Posted on March 3, 2015 by Laura's Stamp Pad

Happy Tuesday!!! That means I have a fabulous technique to share with you and this one is exactly that….fabulous!!! I’m sure you have heard of or see the Bokeh look before. It is those shiny blotches of light in a photograph. So the real definition is the visual quality of the out-of-focus areas of a photographic image, especially as rendered by a particular lens. See you know what I mean, right?

Isn’t this just gorgeous??? I used Tempting Turquoise and Rich Razzleberry for the background and the greeting is from the Feel Goods Stamp Set! This style I got from a fellow demonstrator Mary Ellen! You can check her out here and see her tutorial on this technique here! I love the idea of using Painter’s Tape to hold down your Watercolor Paper and it gives that perfect trim!!!

Here is another look at this technique!!! With this one, I just added a few brush strokes of ink (Island Indigo and Pool Party) to some Watercolor Paper with my Aqua Painter. After it dried, I used the Wondrous Wreath Berry Stamp to create the dots. I added the dots with Whisper White Craft Ink! How fabulous?!?! The greeting is from the A Dozen Thoughts Stamp Set! I layered it with the Oval Punch and Scallop Oval Punch! Here is another sample using Perfect Plum and Elegant Eggplant. I added some Dazzling Details and the dots were created with Whisper White Ink and my pencil eraser!!!

Want to see this in action?? Check out my Video Tutorial below! Be sure to give it a thumbs up if you like it!!!

I hope you try out this technique and let me know how it goes. I would love to see your creations. You could do this technique in a million different colors and get a different look with each! Love it!

Happy Bokehin’

~Laura

Mar 2 2015

You’re A Gem!!!

Posted on March 2, 2015 by Laura's Stamp Pad

This card is perfect for anyone at anytime! Getting a card like this randomly would be fabulous! (Feel free to send one to me any time! 😉 hehe) I started with a card base of Whisper White and added a piece of Elegant Eggplant (4-1/8″ x 5-3/8″) that I ran through my Big Shot with the Filigree Frame Embossing Folder. I know I know it is actually retired now from the Holiday Mini Catalog but I couldn’t not share this fabulous card AND if you have it, here is another way to use it! Then I took a piece of Whisper White cardstock and die cut it with the Label Collections Framelits and the Big Shot. I stamped the greeting from the One Tag Fits All Stamp Set from the Occasions Mini Catalog in Elegant Eggplant! To finish it off, I added Dazzling Details to the diamond for some bling!

I love it!!!! You can’t go wrong with bling! 🙂

Happy Stampin’

~Laura