CREATE LOVE GIVE

DIY Coat Hanger

2011-11-07T19:45:00.001-05:00

This is one of my favorite projects so far - I found these 5 cabinet door fronts at a thrift store for $2.50 - bought some paint, painted them and then sanded and distressed them. Then I found the knobs for $4.50 - TOTAL PRICE $7!!!!!!!! With the help of my hubby we put it together!!! Love how this turned out and how fun it was to create something and see beyond the white boards -

Burlap Wreath

2011-11-07T18:09:00.006-05:00

I just finished making this burlap wreath yesterday! LOVE IT! Last weekend I bought the plumbers foam stuff and was hoping to use that for this wreath - but with sticking pins in it and it being hollow in the middle, I didn't think it was the best idea - I was terrified of pins falling out and Jayden finding them, or some other kid - SO I went back to Michaels and bought the expensive foam wreath (with a coupon of course). I found this on pinterest and gave it my best shot... for some reason my bubble's look nothing like the one I saw, but that's okay... I am a big fan! Here is the link to where I saw it first... I plan on making floral arrangements to attach to it for each season... haven't dabbled in florals yet, so I may need to phone a friend... :)

Enjoy!
Colleen G.

VLV July Week 4

2011-07-24T15:30:00.000-04:00

Viva La Verve! The final sketch. This is for week 4 of the VLV Friday sketches. Both the heart and swirly frame are stencils I have that I traced and cut them out... YEAAAAH for stencils! :) Loved watching this card come together. I love that ribbon on the bottom and the rolled flower was made out of Very Vanilla Ribbon, SOOOOO CUTE! (a touch of hot glue and a burnt hand).

Happy Hotness!!! :)

Enjoy!
Colleen G.

MOJO 200

2011-07-23T13:32:00.000-04:00

So my favorite part of this card is the background.... I MADE THAT - well, with stamps of course.. they are Glitz Stamps and totally new to me!!! LOVE Them--- Going to have a fabulous time playing them, I have a total of 10 diff designs. :) The other thing that was kinda fun, was the stitching, first time I have used that stitch, and I think it went well with this card.

Another Mojo Monday - They are celebrating their 200th Mojo Anniversary! Offering some random prizes! Always fun to play along... and be inspired by the design team! The Circle with the bird and branches is from a cricut cartridge, not sure which one as I used it at a friends house. Sentiment is from Verve Stamps - TFL

Enjoy!
Colleen G.

Get Your Diva on -

2011-07-12T11:24:00.000-04:00

This is the first time I have participated in the Get Your Diva On Challenge by Verve Stamps. You had to take a store gift card and be inspired by that to make your card. Well lets just say this was EXTREMELY hard for me, to take something flat and put dimension to it, and not to have a plain card, and not know if a sketch would look right, I had this vision of using the dress form as the guy, so I started there (would soooo much rather follow sketches) LOL - but hey it's how I will learn right!

So anyway, I only had a DSW gift card in my wallet and it was super boring, so I googled some of my fave stores, and ones I have had in the past and this is what caught my eye....

And this is what I came up with....

I started with stamping the Tim Holtz dressform, then used a stencil on the side, Then used a mask and sponged over it, then added the purple strip and sewed, then stamped the No. 5 then had a heck of the time figuring out how to attach the key, I didn't have any black twine, so I found this wire and just scrunched it and threw it in there... Overall I think it works... what do you think????

Enjoy!
Colleen G.

Courage...

2011-07-10T16:06:00.001-04:00

Ah, I just love this phrase! So many things I want to do and try... and it is so scary to get out there and even try... this phrase just screams at me and gives me hope that it doesn't matter if I fail... it just encourages me to TRY. Just give it shot! Who cares what others think! I just wanna be me!!!!!!!

This is for Week 2 of Viva La Verve sketch you can see more details here . Had so much fun using colored thread to stitch this together. I just picked up pink and orange the other day! Glad I did!!! On the bottom of the card layered over the pink is tulle! Pretty sweet, eh! :) Hope your having a great Sunday. To see how I did the background read my previous post here.

Recipe:
Stamp: Blue Skies-Verve
Ink - Early Espresso
Paper - Early Espresso, Melon Mambo, Bermuda Bay, Old Olive

Enjoy!
Colleen G.

MOJO198 - Dance in the Rain

2011-07-06T17:51:00.000-04:00

I am taking a Beth Moore bible study about David - We just talked about how David was so excited to be carrying home the ark of the covenant successfully and was rejoicing in the Lord and just starting dancing uninhibited before God. It was joy he had and faith and hope in who God was... even when things didn't go David's way, most of the time he learned to dance in the rain...

Now if only I could embrace life's moments of rain... and JUST DANCE. :)

Now onto the card another MOJO MONDAY There is still time to play head on over to see some fabulous work. It is hard to see the sewing on the card, but I used a new stitch down the middle, I really liked how the stitching turned out... if I knew I was adding black to the card I would have used that. BTW -I am loving these butterfly's & how everything looks shimmery with my new Ranger Pearl mist!!!

NOTE to self: White Ribbon will melt if using heat gun! :)

Recipe:
Stamps: Blue Skies-Verve
Paper - Baja Breeze DP
Ribbon, Whisper White, Rose Red

Enjoy!
Colleen G.

Hello Butterfly

2011-07-02T12:04:00.000-04:00

So much fun! The center butterfly paper is TH Kraft resist paper. LOVE this! You can color it any color and get an amzing design. the Butterfly on bottom left is from Blue Skies, by Verve Stamps. The butterfly was saturated in Heirloom Gold Perfect Pearls Mist...(which is amazing and my new fave!)
Designed for VLV JULY Week 1 sketch.

Enjoy!
Colleen G.

VLV June 2011 Challenge

2011-06-28T13:59:00.001-04:00

It's been about 2 years since I played in the Friday VLV Challenge (Verve Stamps). I remember not really playing again because I was sooooo awful! I still have a long way to go, but finally feel like I have it figured out and can get something accomplished a whole lot quicker!!!

Love this stamp set every time I use it. Love that there are no faces to color or hair!!! :) Used SU water color paper to stamp the image on. The flower is on grunge board and inked with the refill ink and then a little bit of Paint on it to give it some texture.

Week 1

Recipe:

Stamp - Unity Stamps: Rain or Shine

Paper - Melon Mambo, Rich Razzleberry

Flower - Fun Flowers Die Cut

So Burlap is pretty much my favorite. I bought a light color to dye it with the Tim Holtz Distressed Stains. I love everything about these stains!!! I will own every color one day!

Week 2 Recipe:

Stamp - Verve Stamps: Blue Skies, Tim Holtz heart stamp

Paper - Rich Razzleberry, Not Quite Navy,

Burlap - Ranger Distress Stain: Blue Jeans

Butterfly - SU sizzlets

Love this card. Nothing but paint - used a Tim Holtz stamp set, can't find the name of it.... but I just love that this is all me, my art, my take. Just me! Will keep trying to perfect this!

Week 3 Recipe:

Stamp - Tim Holtz Stamp set

Ink - Ranger Pain Daubers

Paper - Taken with Teal, Early Espresso

So I received my first Verve Stamp Set this week. I have not been a big fan of Acrylic stamps as I find most stamps are not quality and don't leave a clean crisp image. WELL these are just fabulous and work fabulously with all my ink. I will def. be purchasing more. The flower again is on grunge board and painted with the Ranger dauber, I was impatient and heated it dry and it gave a lot of texture! Love when mistakes work out great!!!

Week 4 Recipe:

Stamp - Verve Stamp: Blue Skies

Paper - Marina Mist, Not Quite Navy

Leave some love!!!

Enjoy!

Colleen G.

Book Covers

2011-06-17T15:24:00.001-04:00

I fell in love with this card from Julee at Poetic Artistry - She then linked a video that she followed which is by JournalArtista - it is a 2 part video - isn't she amazing. So watch both. Which that then inspired me to make these:

Dress form was a foam Stamp by Donna Downey. Flower is die cut from Stampin UP - Used lots of paint and Tim Holtz Distressed Ink and Stains (PS I LOVE the new stains, absolutely fabulous). The plate was in a drawer, I think it came from my sister.

I used the SU word Window punch to to punch out for the date. I used the SMASH stamp. Loving this whole idea of a smash book and journal book. Not sure which will be which or how many more I will make. I am just loving this. This one I Mod Podged everything to seal it.

What are your thoughts? Leave some love.

Enjoy!
Colleen G.

MOJO 195 & a little bitta TIM!

2011-06-14T16:32:00.000-04:00

So I am from the suburbs of Chicago and that makes me spoiled... I can drive to any store I want within 20 minutes... BUT now I am in a small town with 1 craft store, and it's def. not my favorite one. UGH!!! Driving to Louisville is about 45 minute drive and requires planning and seems more like a field trip to find the other stores! :)

Anyway - the store in town just started carrying new FUN products and that makes me have fun!!! :)

Enjoy!
Colleen G.

So here is where I started

2011-06-09T16:16:00.001-04:00

So yesterday I started with this card, but wasnt sure and went to bed. Today I did the other card, and then decided I might as well try finishing this. I got the sentiment and then sewed. Yesterday my sewing machine was sewing upside down... like the design was on the bottom I think this was because of the bobbin being upside down? Anyone know if that was right? Anyway, today it worked. Love sewing on cards. But sooo scary to do it and not worry about ruining it!!!

Circle flower under my tutorial tab.

Enjoy!
Colleen G.

MOJO194 - woot woot

2011-06-09T14:59:00.002-04:00

Beyond stressed! I needed this. I was sitting here today making this card, my kid was finally sleeping... it was calming for me to stamp. This was an outlet of serenity today. He is 3. Need I say more? AAAHHH to MOJO!

Made this sketch for MOJO194 - you can see all the details here. Just a couple days left to play. I borrowed this stamp from a friend... and I LOVE IT! I want it... maybe I can swap her for it! :) HA!

Recipe:
Stamp: Gifts from the Orient
Paper: So Saffron, Taken with Teal, Choco Chip, Old Olive

Enjoy!
Colleen G.

Happy I do Day -

2011-04-12T14:29:00.000-04:00

This felt good! My mojo has been gone. I was in one of those funks for the past month, I would actually think maybe it's time to quit stamping. I don't have the time. But after last weeks card, and then this. I am fully back. Excited to stamp. Wanting new stuff. Needing more time! :) It helped that I had a deadline too. We had an upline meeting and swap last night. I was in need of wedding cards - So killed 2 birds with one stone. CUTEness! JMO!

Recipe:
Stamps: Word Play, Apple Blossoms
Ink: Perfect Plum, Rose Red, Basic Black,
Paper, Whisper White, Rose Red DP, So Saffron, Basic Black
Tools: Rhinestones and Scallop Punch

Enjoy!
Colleen G.

Guess my break should be over, huh?

2011-04-08T20:00:00.000-04:00

So where have I been? I am just not sure. It has been over a month since I stamped. I tried last week, it didn't work too well for me. On Tuesday, I worked on this, but wasn't completely happy with it. I was hoping to stamp today... but that didn't work. So I figured I better just glue the flower on, take a picture and upload this for MOJO MONDAY - I have been sewing like crazy and haven't found a lot of time for cards. Where does the time go????????

The last in the set

2011-02-24T12:13:00.000-05:00

When I received the Friends 24-7 set I made all these cards with the same colors paper and ink! I was thinking this would make a cute gift set. That designer paper has been amazing too!

So I am crazy about google analytics and seeing how many hits I get, where people come from, what do they look at, etc. Funny thing is I know YOUR OUT there, but you haven't said HI! Stop in say hello, I'd love to swing by and explore your work! And comments are FUN! They make me smile! I have actually been guilty too and followed numerous blogs and never said a word! Been trying to work on that. Join me? Follow me? :)

Stampin UP Recipe:
Stamp Set - Friends 24-7
Paper - Always Artichoke, Crumb Cake
Ribbon - Very Vanilla
Ink - Early Espresso, Always Artichoke, Cherry Cobbler

Enjoy!
Colleen G.

My messenger Bag

2011-02-23T14:12:00.000-05:00

When I went out of town a couple weekends ago, this is what I made... and I LOVE IT!!! This is a crocheted bag. I also bought fabric and lined the inside of it. CUTE! I wear it everywhere, even around the house... lol - well not so much anymore, but I sure did when I first made it! I really want to make another one, just need a different color! - I saw a picture of this online and after staring at it for awhile, decided I could probably figure out the pattern... and I did! Made me just a little proud! HA!

Enjoy!

Colleen G.

Recipe Card Card

2011-02-22T10:12:00.001-05:00

I was reminded about my recipe stamp set at a meeting last week. I originally bought it last year to make recipe Christmas gifts for my family. After that I have not touched the stamp set. As I was going to bed the other night, I was thinking about this stamp set and knew I wanted to incorporate it into a card. Mojo Monday was yesterday and they had a great sketch and this came together wonderfully. Most of the time, you are heading home and need to get the recipe and send it along... So the card could really say just about anything and then include the recipe in there! :)

Leave a comment and sign up to follow!!!

Recipe: Everything is Stampin' UP

Stamp Set - From the Kitchen Of, Afterthoughts

Paper - Melon Mambo, Pumpkin Pie, Old Olive

Punch - Scallop Circle, Tag?

Ribbon - Old Olive

Enjoy!

Colleen G.

Finally some cards

2011-02-21T13:51:00.000-05:00

It is so hard to manage my time and keep up with everything. After I went out of town... I was in crochet mode - and cards were just not working for me. I didn't really like anything I had going on last week to post. I was looking at my wall of cards and it was def. getting BROWN - cute, but just brown. So my goal was to not use it all all - I did a pinch. But I had too! LOL. I am going to continue working on getting other colors used and diff. combo's. Wish me luck! :)

I just love the scribble and Swirls die cut from SU - So darling. I left some of the pieces out and thought that was a great way to use. This is actually what I tried basing the card around. LOVE IT!

Leave a comment and sign up to follow my blog so I can find you!!! Happy Monday!

Recipe:
Everything is Stampin Up
Stamp Set - Clearly For You
Paper - Rose Red, Soft Suede, Wild Wasibi, Rich Razzleberry
Ink - Early Espresso, Soft Suede, Rich Razzleberry, Rose Red
Circle Cutter
Die Cuts - Butterfly & Swirls and Scribbles

My First AWARD....

2011-02-21T12:32:00.000-05:00

Woke up on Saturday morning, checked my email and discovered that I had won the stylish blogger award from Belinda!!!!! Thank you so much! You can visit her blog here. This is my first award for anything and I super excited to receive it.

When you recieve this award you are to pay it forward and follow rhese rules:

1) thank the person who gave this award to me and link it back to their blog

2) share 8 things about myself

3) pass this award to 8 other individuals that I have recently discovered

4) leave a comment so that they can pass along the recognition!

So lets see 8 things about me........

1. Being crafty is pretty new to me. It was about 2 years ago that I decided to get back into it. I remember sitting at home with Jayden who was probably 6 months old, thinking I need something to do, and a way to get out of the house... so I searched for a Stampin Up Demonstrator and have been going ever since.

2. I can't stand food or anything to even be a day past the expired date.

3. I am pretty quiet and shy and terrified of large groups IRL! But once I'm comfortable, not so much!

4. Sharing your artwork and having people comment on it and encourage you... IS SUCH A REWARD for me!

5. I have lived in KY for 7 months. This move has been a lot harder than I anticipated. I was recently told that it takes 3 1/2 years after a move to feel like it is really home! Really??? So that means I have just under 3 years... yeeks...

6. Crocheting is amazing! I love making something new.

7. I have never done a swap before and now I am participating in 3 - UH OH! Hope I get them all done on time! :)

8. DREAMING. THINKING. ANALYZING. Just trying to make sense of this crazy life! And learning to TRUST in the ONE who has it all figured out... I wrote that when we lived in New Orleans on my blog during that time. This is kind of me summed up. and this has been my life verse lately.:

Feeling refreshed

2011-02-15T15:35:00.000-05:00

Still feeling amazing after my LONG weekend with my sisters! Good times and lots of laughter. Definitely feeling behind with cards, 5 whole days NOT in my scraproom is just CRAZY!!! I feel the void! HA! Well I guess I don't need to tell you HOW MUCH I love the friends 24-7 set. This was the first I used the blender pen and ink to color in. Works beautifully! Try it if you haven't yet.

Recipe: Stampin UP

Stamp - Friends 24-7

CS - Crumb Cake, DP, Cherry Cobbler

Ribbon - Very Vanilla

Leave some love & sign up to follow

Enjoy!

Colleen G.

2 post Tuesday -

2011-02-08T10:44:00.000-05:00

So as I said yesterday, I made a few different MOJO cards - My husband thinks he likes one of these better than the actual one I submitted (where was he before I pressed enter) UGH! So now I am second guessing myself and kind of agree with him - He likes the first one below... what do you think????

Stampin Up Recipe:
Stamp Set- Friends 24-7
CS - Crumb Cake
Circle Flower - Riding Hood Red
Black Brads

Stampin Up Recipe
Stamp Set- Clearly for you
CS - Crumb Cake
Ink - Early Espresso
Button - Cherry Cobbler

Leave a comment and sign up to follow my blog - This helps me FIND YOU and have a chance to come check out your blog!!!

OH - and did you know I have an etsy shop? Lots of goodies in there - check it out from the sidebar - save 20% by entering coupon code - valentine11- :)

Enjoy!
Colleen G.

MOJO177 - Friends

2011-02-07T17:50:00.000-05:00

It's MONDAY again! That means it is time to MOJO- you can play along by going here - This is going to be a short week for me this week as I am going out of town.... so I played right away!!! What a fun challenge! I have a couple other samples of this sketch, but this was my favorite! Hopefully I can post the rest this week some time. This stamp set is new to me and I am LOVING it!!!

Leave a comment and sign up to follow my blog - I would love to come check out your blog!

Stampin UP Recipe:
Stamp Set - Friends 24-7
Ink: Basic Black, Riding Hood Red, Always Artichoke
Ribbon - Cherry Cobbler Seam Binding
Blender Pen

Enjoy!
Colleen G.

Distressed Glitter??? UM....

2011-02-06T16:24:00.000-05:00

So not really sure what I was thinking - I mean well I do know - I was in love with 2 new techniques and without thinking decided to use them together. I had just gotten my heat and stick powder (use and then can put any glitter over it to stick) - and I was all about roughing up those edges and sandpapering the paper - And well without much thought those merged together and I thought it was great! But then after a few I realized they kind of contradict each other - but maybe that can be what makes this card fun, right?!?

Leave a comment and sign up to follow - Make your presence known so I can come check out your blog, k? :)

Recipe:
SU Stamp - Watercolor Trio, french foliage
Ink - Soft Suede

Enjoy!
Colleen G.

Clearly Fantastic - :)

2011-02-05T10:53:00.000-05:00

WOW! These colors are just fantastic. Love this stamp set! (I know I said that yesterday, but I am loving it even more now) Definitely all about getting my hands dirty lately and inking away all those edges. I love the depth it gives here and how it focuses your attention to the focal point of the card!

Hope you have a fabulous weekend! Stay warm - Leave a comment! I'd love to come check out your blog! And don't forget you can sign up to follow my blog! :)

Recipe:
Stampin UP
Stamp set - clearly for you
Ink: Riding Hood Red, Basic Black
CS - Crumb Cake, SU DP
Ribbon - Very Vanilla

Enjoy!
Colleen G.

Loving this new set

2011-02-04T10:03:00.000-05:00

I just got this set and I am loving it. This was my first play with it - OH and Marina Mist is new to me too - and LOVING it!!!! Love when I find new color combo's. Can I just say I am in love with what I do? I love making cards, I love sharing them. And my goal of 2011 is to actually start sending them off! (my stockpile is just too big now). I know I love receiving a card in the mail, so I need to start blessing others with a gift of card that lets them know I am thinking of them!

Don't forget to leave a comment and say hi - and sign up to follow my blog too!

Recipe:
Stampin UP
Stamp Set - Clearly for you
CS - Rich Razzleberry, Marina Mist DP
Ribbon -Old Olive
Ink - Rich Razzleberry, Marina Mist, Old Olive
Punch - Modern Punch
Rhinestones

Enjoy!
Colleen G.

DISTRESSED texture

2011-02-03T09:57:00.000-05:00

Loving all this texture! This was for a sketch challenge. Have you noticed how much I love crumb cake? Def. my new fave. You can see a tutorial for the flower on my tab. Play around with different size circles for a variety of flower textures.

Leave a comment! And sign up to follow my blog!

Recipe:
Stampin UP
Stamp Set - Apple Blossoms
Paper - Crumb Cake, Choco Chip, Rose Red, Pink Pirouette
Embossing Folder - Square Lattice

Enjoy!
Colleen G.

CAS104

2011-02-02T08:35:00.000-05:00

This was for the CAS104 challenge on SCS. This is actually my first CAS - I tend to want to overdue everything and not leave much white space. I love the border. The flower was done using the rock-n-roll technique - stamp in lighter color then roll edges in darker. These colors together are just fabulous.

Recipe:
Stampin UP
Stamp Set - Vintage Vogue
CS - Crumb Cake
Ink - Rich Razzleberry, Choco Chip

A little bit of Mojo's all I need...

2011-02-01T10:08:00.001-05:00

MOJO MONDAY = fun, fun, fun!

I am a little off the curvy line - I couldn't get it to flow once it came time to glue. But it works and I am just loving everything about this! So fun, so cute, so sweet! So easy. Below is the sketch for this week's mojo. You should play along!

Don't forget to leave a comment or sign up to follow my blog! I know your out there.... LOL!!!!

Recipe:
Stampin UP CS - Crumb, Cake, Choco Chip, Rich Razzleberry
INK - Choco Chip, Rich Razzleberry
Stamp Set - Vintage Vogue, Thoughts & Prayers
Flowers - Circle Punches

Enjoy!
Colleen G.

Encouragement

2011-01-31T10:42:00.000-05:00

Hebrews 10:24-25

²⁴ And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, ²⁵ not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

Everybody needs a little encouragement once in a while. It seems sometimes we can't find the words or don't have the answer and just seem lost! This card is for those moments! :)

Recipe:
DP: Basic Grey
CS: SU - Melon Mambo, Choco Chip
Stamp Set - SU Whimsical Words

Enjoy!
Colleen G.

Dreaming of Spring

2011-01-30T11:38:00.000-05:00

In need of some spring weather. Over winter, over the cold and definitely over being sick!!! This stamp set with the flower was on of the first stamp sets I purchased. I really haven't used it much... but always love when I do. I just stamped the flower in different colors and then cut it and layered with so saffron.

Recipe:
Stampin UP
Stamp : Looks like Spring, Sincere Salutations
Paper: So Saffron
Ink: Rose Red, Elegant Eggplant, Brocade Blue, So Saffron

Enjoy!
Colleen G.

Splish Splash

2011-01-29T13:07:00.000-05:00

So this was a lot of fun. I made the scallop square paper by taking whisper white and using my reinkers. I used, Melon Mambo, Bermuda Bay, and Soft Suede. I followed a tutorial on SCS. Pretty much you take reinkers and drop randomly on your CS and then spray it with water and take another piece of Cardstock and squish it on top, then peel it off and you have 2 pieces of CS to use. I then used the die cut to cut it out. At first I wasn't quite sure what to do with it... and thought it was screaming 70's - so I grabbed the only little almost "bug" I could find - distressed it a pinch and it came out PERFECT!!!

Stampin UP - Melon Mambo & Whisper White CS
INK - Melon Mambo, Early Espresso
Stamp Set - Sentimental Journey

Enjoy!
Colleen G.

My first Emboss Resist

2011-01-28T08:57:00.000-05:00

I was looking through different resources on SCS (www.splitcoaststampers.com) and came across the emboss resist technique. I have never tried it before and decided to give it a go. Everything in white was stamped with versamark and then I put clear embossing powder over it and heated it with heat gun. I then used Melon Mambo, Rich Razzleberry, & Old Olive to sponge around the image and then used Bashful Blue on the rest. Then took a tissue and wiped off the ink from where I had embossed. I am pretty happy with it -What do you think?

Recipe:
Stampin Up - Apple Blossom (Hostess Set)
INK: Melon Mambo, Rich Razzleberry, Old Olive, Bashful Blue
Clear Embossing Powdeer

Enjoy!
Colleen G.

Flower Brooch

2011-01-27T11:45:00.000-05:00

Lately I have been on a card kick, so I figured it was time to show something else... a rosette brooch.

I made this flower to attach to my purse. I also have one that stuck on a hair band to wear in my hear. This purse was a little tough to get the pin through. But it finally worked! Only a few finger pricks! HA! Now just need to pick up a few different colors!

Paper Circle flower with tutorial

2011-01-26T12:24:00.000-05:00

I am just loving these paper flowers and they are SUPER EASY to make - there were a few requests from yesterday on how to make these, so I figured I would share.

Lets start with a picture of my very first one -

Like I said after roaming on Etsy for awhile. I kept seeing this style flower on Hairbands. I was describing it to my husband and said, "look it's just a circle on top of a circle with it scrunched in the middle". He immediately said, Yep, sure is. So instead of cutting fabric - which I hate, (die cuts are the BEST!) I went straight to my desk and began creating one with paper. So here are my tips...

Circle Paper Flower How to:
1. Punch about 5 circles each a little big bigger than the last. My smallest circle here is 1 3/4.

2. Make each circle into 2 circles by using your bone folder and rubbing it all over on both sides to distress the fibers and then carefully pull it apart. I learned this awhile ago from Mary Fish's Stampin Pretty blog - You can view that video here http://www.stampinpretty.com/2010/08/ppa-divine-redesign-plus-a-new-video.html

TIP - I use Stampin UP Cardstock which is thicker and is able to divide into two pieces. By pulling it apart it helps it crumple and and then reshaping is easier. Other CS may work, I am just not familiar with it!

3. If you want to sponge and distress the edges, now is the time.

4. Now you have 2 options - 1. take each individual circle and crumple it in your hands, uncrumple it and stack them biggest to smallest then punch a hole in center and stick a brad in there OR - 2. stack biggest to smallest and then hole punch in middle and stick a brad in there.

5. Then start in the center and squish it upright and bring each below circle upwards and squeeze it together. If you do this SUPER tight, you will end up with a flower like the yellow flower featured on the card above. Then spread it flat again, leaving it as tight as you prefer. If you like the softer blue flower, you do this less squishy and spread it flat again, you will have a flower like the blue one above. Both are adorable and can be made in numerous sizes!!!

AND there ya go!!! Did that make sense? First time I had to explain anything. So if you have questions, let me know.

Please leave me a comment! I love them. And it's good to know people are out there! Stop in and say HI!

Recipe:
Stampin Up-
Paper: Bermuda Bay, So saffron, Crumb Cake
Ink: Early Espresso
Stamp: Afterthoughts
Rhinestones

Enjoy!
Colleen G.

Mojo 175 & fun with flowers

2011-01-25T10:53:00.000-05:00

So I have seen a lot of flowers made out of fabric and this type of flower caught my eye. As soon as I saw it, I knew I could attempt to make it out of paper! Sure enough I did! And it is just beautiful!!! I plan to make a TON more! The rest of card just reminds me of my life right now. Being in a new town. Trying to get connected and make this home and sometimes just feeling a bit lost!

The sketch is this week's mojo monday -

Head on over and play...

Recipe: Basic Grey DP
Stampin UP - Sentimental Journey Stamp Set, Early Espresso Ink, Crumb Cake CS
Flower is made out of Crumb Cake CS.

Enjoy!
Colleen G.

Subtle Rain

2011-01-24T09:47:00.000-05:00

I always wonder what to write and how much information to give. Not just about whatever picture I am featuring. But about everything. I wonder if people are similar to me and follow lots of blogs, but mostly just glance at pictures and skim for anything really exciting. So I tend to be short and to the point with most posts. Maybe i need some balance though....

This stamp set is a from Unity. I was so excited when I discovered Archivers carrried these mini stamps set! This was my favorite one. I colored it in with copics and a few markers. The umbrella was done with the same copic but darkened by putting 2 layers of color. I love how copics blend and add depth.

Recipe:
Unity Stamp Set
Ink: Choco Chip, Taken with Teal, Melon Mambo
Paper - Melon Mambo, So saffron
Ribbon - Melon Mambo

Enjoy!
Colleen G.

Forever NOLA

2011-01-23T12:46:00.000-05:00

The Fleur De Lis will forever remind me of my time I lived in New Orleans. My husband and I spent 2 years there. My son was born there. And I met the most amazing friends there.
So this card is perfect for all of them! :)

It was a sketch for a mojo monday a while ago.

Recipe:
Stampin Up Vintage Vogue Stamp set - the tag is from there too, but not sure the name of that set.
Ink: Baja Breeze, Chocolate Chip, More Mustard

Enjoy!
Colleen G.

Manhattan Always

2011-01-22T11:52:00.000-05:00

I borrowed this embossing folder from a friend yesterday - and now it's def. on my wish list! I tried a couple different techniques, but this was my favorite. After I embossed it on white paper, I sponged over the top of it and then just added the Happiness Always Stamp. EASY as can be!

Recipe:
Stampin Up - Manhattan Flower Embossing Folder & Whimsical Words Stamp Set

Enjoy!
Colleen G.

Happy Thoughts Impressed

2011-01-21T22:02:00.000-05:00

This card is using the pressed embossing technique. I just love how simple and quick this card comes together. Ruby Red is one of my favorite colors. I am so sad it's been retired. :(
This picture is also taken in my new light box that my husband built. I am still adjusting to using it, but so far, I think I like it.

Recipe:
Stampin UP - Apple Blossoms Stamp Set. CS - Bermuda Bay and Ruby Red - Scallop Circle Punch

Enjoy!
Colleen G

Embossing hotness...

2011-01-20T13:13:00.000-05:00

I just love this technique. So much fun. You just glue your pieces on then run through the big shot with an embossing folder. And it is AH-Mazing! I made this card for this weeks mojo sketch-

Always great to have a little mojo in my week! :)

Recipe:
Stampin Up - heart punch - Square lattice embossing folder - Colors: Ruby Red and Bermuda bay

Enjoy!
Colleen

My ONLINE STORE - www.etsy.com/shop/clgdesign

Vintage Friend

2011-01-19T10:29:00.001-05:00

I just love how this turned out! This was from an old MOJO Monday - not sure which one anymore. I never submitted it. I actually didn't really like it and set it to the side with the rest of the cards. Fast forward a few months I came back across it and I LOVE IT! So here it is. Pretty simple.

Recipe:
Stampin UP Ink - Soft Suede, Always artichoke
Stampin Up Stamp set - Vintage Vogue

Enjoy!
Colleen G.

MY ONLINE STORE - www.etsy.com/shop/clgdesign

Set of 10 cards - GIFT!

2011-01-17T16:11:00.001-05:00

I made this set of 10 cards for Christmas gifts! It was the first big project I did. And it was fun! It went pretty quick once I figured all 10 layouts. Def. loving the set ideas.

I also made little boxes for the cards and envelopes to go in. Cute!

I am also selling 1 of these on etsy if you are interested. Check it out here... www.etsy.com/shop/clgdesign

Recipe:
Stampin up: Vintage Vogue, Sincere Salutation, Whimsical Words, Apple Blossom

Enjoy!
Colleen

Just a few Tri-Fold Cards

2011-01-14T21:54:00.000-05:00

I've been busy....

2011-01-14T19:54:00.000-05:00

You just couldn't tell cuz I have been MIA!!! Oh the holidays sure do make you go crazy! I am back on track with a renewed inspirations. Bring on 2011!!! Here are a few pics of new items on Etsy - my online store.

This has been my favorite thing lately. Making Fabric Rosettes. So much fun! This is a necklace that can be adjusted to various lengths! Loving it.

More coming soon.
Enjoy!
Colleen G.

Looks who's back... and got to MOJO

2010-12-09T15:33:00.002-05:00

LIFE has just been crazy - stamping has been lost and this week, I found time again. And WAS IT FUN!!! (Thanks Karen for inspiring me) ;)
I actually got to play MOJO Monday - you can find details here -www.mojomonday.blogspot.com.
I just love these colors together.... everything is super sparkly too. I used the champagne paint and alcohol to make a shimmer mist. LOVE IT!!! Need more of it! :) OH, and notice the ornament hanger... SUUUweeet!

Recipe:
SU DP, Cherry Cobbler and Basic Black & Contempo Christmas Stamp set.

ENJOY!
Colleen

Well I have been busy...

2010-11-17T17:11:00.003-05:00

Real BUSY - and here is why.... I have been setting up my online store. Still will have a few more things to add, and details but I AM OFFICIALLY open for business!!! WOOHOO!

Take a peak here... http://www.etsy.com/people/clgdesign

Enjoy!
Colleen G.

Baby Boy Burp Cloth

2010-11-15T21:44:00.001-05:00

Adorable handmade two-sided burp cloth. It measures 7in x17in. One side is absorbent terry cloth in Sage. The other is flannel print in blues, greens and browns. All seams are triple stitched for durability.

Rag Bags

2010-11-05T19:13:00.000-04:00

Love these!!!

MY FAV hat -

2010-10-27T20:30:00.000-04:00

So I started making hats in April, which means it was pretty warm and kinda ridiculous that I made about 7 different ones this summer! :) But YIPPY for fall being here and finally able to wear them out in public and not just around the house!!! This is my personally fave...

Follow your heart - straight to embossing folders....

2010-10-26T14:36:00.001-04:00

So pretty much I am in love with embossing folders... I love that they can take simple paper and make it look like DP with NO extra cost!!! MY FAVORITE one ever is the SU Square lattice. I love the texture. I also think it rocks that you can use both sides for diff. effects.

Recipe:
SU Whimsical Words stamp
SU - Bird Punch & 1 3/4 Circle
SU - Butterfly embosslit
SU- Rhinestones
Basic Grey DP

Enjoy!
Colleen G

A lil something else I do....

2010-10-24T18:57:00.002-04:00

I crochet - It wasn't until earlier this year that I pushed (or should I say my sister made me and would not do it for me) myself to read patterns. I didn't want to sit long enough to figure it out. I just wanted her to tell me what to do. Well after a few weeks... it all made a lot more sense and doesn't take much time to figure out what the author wants me to do. This bracelet I made in about 2 hours today. LOVE IT! ;)

Fall ART

2010-09-25T17:32:00.002-04:00

I am in love with this stamps set! I never EVER would have bought it if I did not go to my hostess club and get to play with it! It just is sooooo much fun to use! The waterspots are FANTASTIC! It make me want FALL to be here!

Here is the sketch for this weeks mojo -

Recipe:
Stamp SU French Foliage
Ink: Old Olive, Pumpkin Pie, Riding Hood Red
Embossing Folder - Cuttlebug
Punch - SU Scallop Circle

ENJOY!
Colleen

2010-09-18T11:15:00.001-04:00

RAIN LOVE - MOJO155

2010-09-12T16:20:00.000-04:00

Well lets just say I have colored this little stamp set about 5 times since yesterday...lol I have used a few different papers and watercoloring techniques - lets just say whisper white does not like water and tears and balls up and is not blender friendly... I am sure most know that, but now I have joined the club! HA. Colored pencils are just not my thing, pretty much as much as I wish I could pick a light source and highlight and blend and pretend I'm awesome.... I'm just not!!! But when it comes to coloring in the lines.... I GOT THIS!!! lol.

This just came out fabulous... pretty much my favorite card so far. I have been thinking since yesterday there is just something missing from all my cards... is it paper? bling? acces? what is it? I even went into my SCS fav. gallery to see what other people are doing, that FINISH the card. Are my lines too clean? I still don't know. But to me this is finished. It is a smile on my face complete!!!

I made this for MOJO 155 you can check out the details here. There is still time to play!!! I look forward to the inspiration I see there every week.

RECIPE:
SU DP
Ink: Soft Suede, Burmuda Bay, Melon Mambo
Stamp: Unity Stamps Itty Bitty
EK Success Flower Punch
Ribbon: Melon Mambo

ENJOY!
Colleen

A BIG day of Firsts...

2010-09-11T14:42:00.000-04:00

So yesterday I had a FANTASTIC day of shopping with a NEW friend. So now today I am glued to my desk playing with ALL my NEW goodies... This card includes many FIRSTS for me, take a look at the picture and then you can see what they are.

MOJO 155

1. Very 1st Embossing Folder --- I am going to LOVE LOVE LOVE embossing folders!

2. Using ink to paint Chipboard. (my tag)

3. UNITY stamps -is that not the cutest???!!! (Archivers carries UNITY :) So happy!!!)

4. Not stamping the image on white paper

5. Using twine and a button

That just makes me smile to think I tried new things... and I love how this turned out!

I made this for MOJO 155 you can check out the details here. There is still time to play!!! I look forward to the inspiration I see there every week.

RECIPE:

Cuttlebug Embossing Folder

SU Paper - Soft Suede, More Mustard, Baja Breeze

Unity Stamps

ENJOY!

Colleen G.

New punch = LOTS OF FUN!!!

2010-09-01T16:58:00.001-04:00

Love this punch from EK Success. They were 40% off so who could resist!!! I also bought the stamp set, but it doesn't like my stampin up ink pads. I have a few others, and this stampology pad worked. But the depth is just BLAH!!! What ink pads are best for clear stamps?

The sketch is from mojo monday 154 - check out the details here... www.mojomonday.blogspot.com.

Another fabulous layout!!!

Recipe:
Stamp: Inkadinkadoo
Paper: SU old olive, basic gray, Sweet Pea DP, Thoroughly Modern DP

Enjoy!
Coco

Triple Watercolor Trio

2010-08-10T10:53:00.005-04:00

I debated whether I should I put a sentiment on the front or leave it blank. I have decided for now to leave it blank and even the inside... it seems I have lots of cards, but never the right one for the occasion. I hate giving away a card if I don't have a duplicate. (even if I have a picture). Which means I have to make double of everything. UGH! So my new goal is to make 10 of everything. That way I can use them and not feel i have to hold on. :)

Watercolor Trio has been one of the most difficult sets for me to use... I don't think I am real impressed with it at all. But this turned out cute. Paper sure does make a huge difference.

Recipe- SUO
Stamps: Water Color Trio
Ink: Rose Red, Choco Chip, Taken with Teal
Ribbon: Rose Red

Enjoy!
Coco

Vintage Travel

2010-08-03T15:06:00.005-04:00

I made this card for the Mojo Monday challenge - you can find details here. For my 30th birthday this past April, my best friends from all over traveled traveled to IL to celebrate the big day with me! When I saw this stamp set I knew this would make super cute thank you's for all them...

Recipe-all SU
Stamp: Sentimental Journey
Paper: Sweet Pea
Ink: Choco Chip, Taken with Teal

Enjoy!
~Coco

Missing friends...

2010-08-01T14:06:00.004-04:00

My family just moved about a month ago from IL to KY -We are finally a little settled and have most of the boxes unpacked. This leaves me with quite a bit of time to get back into card making~ and boy did i miss it!!!

Here is 1 of the cards I made...

Recipe- all SU
Ink: Chocolate Chip, Old Olive, Rose Red
Stamps: Vintage Vogue, Watercolor Trio and Whimsical Words
Paper: Sweet Pea DP

I have had such a HARD time using watercolor trio - All i used was the stem of the stamp to go with the flower from vintage vogue.

Ever since the butterfly emboss/die cut came up - I LOVE BUTTERFLIES. Crazy, I know! But I have never liked butterflies or hearts for that matter. They are just too girly, I guess. Or it's what every one gets tattooed. So I just didn't like them! But now I want butterflies on everything... LOL - Maybe I just need to have a little girl!!! :)

Welcome back to me...

2010-07-06T21:14:00.000-04:00

Vintage Frame -

2010-02-21T13:50:00.001-05:00

Choco Chip, Baja Breeze & Kraft... soooo fantastic together!!! :)

2 for 1 - Don't ya love those days...

2010-02-19T15:10:00.002-05:00

I can actually make and finish an entire card now during my son's naptime... now that is PROGRESS and AMAZING!!! Never thought I would get here. I love playing along with sketches and challenges. It keeps me motivated. I came across this challenge here by Joanne www.stampedbyhand.blogspot.com - there is a series of 3 challenges and this weeks was to use paper piercing. Check out her blog for more details... OH and it's to win some FUN BLOG CANDY!!! GO GO GO :) I also used this for this weeks MOJO monday!!!! Gee I love that MOJO place! www.mojomonday.blogspot.com

I used SU's Baja Breeze DP and Choco Chip along with Vintage Vogue - my new fav right now!!! Happy Friday!

Basic Grey Challenge... REALLY???

2010-02-16T16:00:00.002-05:00

I just happened to stumble across this challenge blog www.basicgreychallenges.blogspot.com - and I did a little happy dance!!! I LOVE and am obsessed with Basic Grey -Can't wait to follow and play along now! I had some old Motifka paper I used... TFL and Happy Tuesday! :)

Friend of Vintage PPA29

2010-02-14T17:17:00.003-05:00

This is for the Pals Paper Arts Challenge #29 - you can find it here to play along-

www.palspaperarts.com

I am loving this vintage vogue set from Stampin' Up - This was my first chance to play with it - Can't wait to create more!!! Happy Valentines Day!!! TFL.

Mojo 124

2010-02-05T15:01:00.001-05:00

Very Merry MOJO 116

2009-12-10T15:14:00.004-05:00

I LOVE this little snowman from Hero Arts, an Archivers Exclusive! The snowflakes and bottom are flocked so IRL it looks like snow! Of course the pic doesn't show the glitter that great, if you click on it you get a better shot... hoping hubby makes me a box (is it white box? or light box? lol I don't know) this Christmas to take photos in.

This is also for MOJO Monday 116. TFL -

OH yah, and I used Copics too! Just bought a few last week along with this stamp. LOVING to color with them. Can't wait to BUY MORE!!!

FANTASTIC Blog Candy from Kerri

2009-12-06T13:07:00.003-05:00

Check this out - Kari is giving this away for her 1 year blogversary! What a bunch of amazing goodies she is giving... check out her blog here.

HAPPY 1 year Kari - thatnks for sharing with us!

PPA14 & MOJO111

2009-11-02T23:58:00.002-05:00

I saw this blog Candy here on Pals Paper Arts - It was for a challenge using Pink to represent Breast Cancer Awareness month - So I had to play along... Had to work real hard to find some pink! Guess I am not so much of a pinky girl - but I am a HUGE fan of brown! So the combo was perfect. I found this fun Basic Grey DP the other day and realized it would be perfect for the PINK challenge. I also combined this with this weeks MOJO111 Challenge here... I am loving Mojo's and was super excited to find there monthly gallery's on here, I am always in need of a good sketch!!! TFL...

MOJO107 - Best Wishes

2009-10-11T15:13:00.002-04:00

A million pictures later and this is the best I can do - I have never had such a hard time capturing an image. The gold background did not help. It kept reflecting the flash! The dress actually has gold glitter on it. It is sooo pretty IRL. This was for mojo monday - you can check them out here. TFL.

Happy Birthday - party Hearty Tri-Shutter

2009-09-22T18:42:00.002-04:00

Have a Holly Jolly Christmas

2009-09-22T18:34:00.001-04:00

MOJO103 - Sending Thoughts of Love

2009-09-08T23:12:00.000-04:00

1st Run

2009-09-08T19:13:00.001-04:00

Setting up my new colors