Graceful Impressions

February class

2012-02-17T15:08:00.000+11:00

Just to let you know that my February class is FULLY SUBSCRIBED. Thankyou to those ladies that RSVP'd and I will be seeing you tomorrow!

If you missed out, please contact me to either arrange the possibility of a private session*, or alternatively, book a workshop where I can incorporate one of these cards into my demonstrations.

* costs will be incurred and a minimum number of participants is required.

Little boy card

2012-02-17T15:01:00.001+11:00

It seems to be a problem for everyone....making little boys cards. There are a range of stamps and embellishments in the IB&C that are suitable for this genre, but I also struggle.

So when the urge and creativity hit me, I tend to go with it and make up a card, even if I don't need it right now. Better to have it on hand.....

I stamped the Triceratops in Always Artichoke on Whisper White cardstock and then added colour with a dauber on select pastel colours to achieve a more subtle coloured-in effect.

This cute little card is SUPER SIMPLE. All I used was some DSP, 1 stamp set and some of the Stampin' Up! pastels. I hadn't pulled these out for sometime, so this was a great opportunity for me. As I said, this card is simple and this is really the focus. As much as we would love the recipients of our cards to drool over them and keep them forever, the reality is that.....little boys don't care! They like you more for the present you give. Sigh....or is that just mine! Anyway, I don't really see the point in using up ALL of your creativity stores on small boys cards. Sure, you want them to look good and reflect your craft, but weigh up the circumstances.

Some of you might not agree with what I have just said, and that is fine. Knock your socks off with a superbly created card. Each to his/her own. All I am saying is that we don't have to get too hung up on making handmade cards for certain age groups and that by simplifying the process, we can make some pretty great projects.

So what are some of the stamp sets that Stampin' Up! have that are suitable for boys aged 3 - 10? Well, for my money I think:

Ain't Love Grand (hostess) p12
Elebration (a la carte) p15
Under the Big Top p33
Up, Up and Away p33
Got Treats p35
Take a Spin p36
Create a Cupcake p36
Bring on the Cake p38
Party this Way p39
Loads of Love p41
Something Sweet p42
A Little Treat p43
Every Little Bit p46 (various stamps)
Button Buddies p47
Make a Monster p56
Fox and Friends p58
Dinoroar p59
I Dig You p59
Look Who's Turning p61
a number of background stamps
a heap of wheel stamps

What about embellishments? Well how about:

Treat Cups p126
Pocketful of Posies DSP p128 (various sides)
Just Add Cake DSP p129
Big Top Birthday DSP p130
Big Top Birthday Quick Accents p131
Party Animal Simply Scrappin' kit p133
Clips Assortment p141
Vintage Trinkets p141
Mini Library Clips p141
Jumbo Brads p143
Metallic brads p143

As you can see, there are heaps of things that you can use on little boys cards. Let your imagination guide you!

Materials used:
Stamp - Dinoroar
Paper - Just Add Cake DSP, Whisper White & Baja Breeze cardstocks
Ink - Always Artichoke, Soft Suede
Other - Daubers, Pastels, Big Shot, Circle #2 die, Scallop edge punch, dimensionals

Gulp.....a big step for me!

2012-02-15T21:24:00.000+11:00

Ok, I've taken the plunge and applied for a design team position. I have wanted to do this for some time, but I wanted to make sure that I could fulfil the commitments. Plus, there are some constraints on who I can or can't be a DT member for from a Stampin' Up! perspective (ie. because of competing products), so even though sometimes a team might be a good fit for me personally, it didn't gel professionally.

However, there is a call out for the website "STUCK?!" at the moment. For the first time, they are looking for design team members to work on cards. The website has predominately been for scrapbookers (of which I have used a couple), but they are now launching into the cardmaking side of things too.

For those of you that have linked onto Mojo Monday through me, this is much the same concept.

So what I had to do in my application was to do the appointed sketch and then send in a bit about myself. Fingers crossed they like what they see! I won't stick up the card that I submitted, but I will put up the one that I did, but rejected. Nothing wrong with it.....I just felt I could do better.

This is the sketch:

...and this is my first attempt (which didn't get submitted)

Wish me luck. I understand that announcements will be made by the end of February, so at least we are not waiting forever to hear one way or the other! If you would like to apply as well, click on the link (above) and check out the details.

Materials used:
Stamps: Creative Elements, French Foliage
Paper: Lucky Limeaid cardstock, Everyday Enchantment DSP (SAB)
Ink: Early Espresso, Soft Suede, Calypso Coral
Other: Pearls, Calypso Coral ribbo (SAB), On Board chipboard, Beautiful Butterflies die, Big Shot, Champagne Shimmer Paint & Isocol mix

Easy cards

2012-02-13T12:21:00.000+11:00

This simple creation is one I whipped up this morning while the 2 girls were being relatively quite. These times are sometimes few and far between, so simple and easy cards are sometimes all I can do! But this card shows you that you do not have to go overboard or be hugely creative in order to make a lovely card (well...I think it is lovely!!).

I have used a pattered paper that is reasonably busy but still not too much that it overwhelms the entire card. The paper is from the SAB Everyday Enchantment range and you can get this for FREE if you place an order of $100 before the end of March.

I have also splurged on using some of the teeny tiny pearls on the sentiment - which is one of the hostess sets in the IB&C (another freebie for qualifying orders!).

Have a look in your stash for some DSP that you can use to re-create this card!

Materials used:
Stamp: Tagtasic (hostess)
Cardstock: Pink Pirouette, Everyday Enchantment DSP
Ink: Calypso Coral
Other: Scallop Circle punch, Early Espresso Bakers Twine, button from Soft Subtles pack, Daffodil Delight 1 1/4" striped ribbon, pearls, dimensionals, glue dot
items in ORANGE appear in mini catty; items in PINK appear in SAB catty

Stamping on DSP

2012-02-11T14:12:00.000+11:00

Here is a card that I made after spotting a few different versions around the traps of late. The main feature is the fact that I have stamped a reasonably solid image over print paper. This seems to be all the rage at the moment, so I can't credit any one person for the idea. But to everyone that has done it prior to me and published their pics....I thankyou.

Don't be afraid to use your stamps a bit "willy nilly" either. On this card, I stamped one image over the top of another image. This technique can be used to great effect, especially when creating backgrounds.

The other aspect of the card that I have made was to challenge myself. I made myself pull out a stamp set that I had not used in a while and incorporate it into todays card. This stamp set is 'Printed Petals' (p81 IB&C). This was a set that I (ashamedly) purchased and have hardly used, but it is a great little set. For just $34.95 wood or $27.95 clear, you get 5 stamps that can be used in a variety of ways.

Stamping over printed paper gives you a look that is very different to just stamping on solid cardstock or paper. It can be further enhanced by heat embossing the image rather than just stamping. With the range of colours now appearing in the SU! line of embossing powders, you are limited only by your imagination.

I challenge you to pull out a set that you have not used in a while and to create a card. I'd love to see what you come up with!

DON'T FORGET** Sale-a-bration is now on. Spend $100 in a single transaction and you will receive a FREE item out of the SAB catalogue. Host a $600 workshop and receive a FREE item out of the SAB catalogue. PLUS, every $100 purchase between now and March 31st will also get you a Lucky Envelope which contains a FREE gift from me to the value of at least $10.

Materials used:
Cardstock - Crumb Cake, Early Espresso, First Edition DSP
Stamps - Printed Petals, Happiest Birthday Wishes (hostess)
Ink - Early Espresso, Cajun Craze, More Mustard
Other - sponge, buttons from neutral pack, dimensionals

a Host of Happies!

2012-02-07T16:38:00.000+11:00

My February class is now advertised and I am taking bookings. In this class, you will create 4 different styled birthday cards that will enable you to cover a range of ages. You will not only be stamping, but also using the Big Shot plus a few punches and embellishments that you may not have used before.

You will also receive 3 envelopes for the 3 standard sized cards in order for you to give them away (if you can bear to!)

Date: Saturday 18th February 2012
Time: 1pm
Place: old convent complex, 1 Fireman St COLAC
Cost: $25pp
RSVP at the latest by Feb 15th in order to reserve your place.

Bookings are essential and numbers are limited. As is my policy, if you respond that you are coming, and you do not show, you will be liable for the cost of the class as I will be cutting up materials for you.

Any queries, please contact me directly. Places in my classes fill fast, so please do not leave it to the last minute in case you miss out!

Embossing buddy

2012-02-05T09:05:00.001+11:00

SU! have just informed us that the Embossing Buddy (pg 145 IB&C for $9.50) will become in short supply in the near future.

Apparently, the company that makes the Embossing Buddy for SU! have said that they will no longer be making it. Once current stocks in the SU! warehouse are depleted, this item will no longer be available for ordering (ie. it will not be placed on back order).

SU! are looking to secure another supplier of this product in the future, but please be aware that there may be a certain timeframe where we will not be able to get any in for you.

This is a bit disappointing as I have been promoting this item of late in both cardmaking and scrapbooking classes I have run. My suggestion to all my customers is to contact me if you would like to order an Embossing Buddy and I will put in a bulk order. The Embossing Buddy lasts a lifetime, so once you have one, I doubt that it would be something you would be looking to buy again in the near future. However, they are indispensable for use with the darker embossing powders.

Contact me ASAP if you would like to place an order for an Embossing Buddy.

$100 BONANZA

2012-02-01T08:32:00.000+11:00

What does a $100 order* get you?

Apart from the high quality reliable SU! products that you have selected, you will also get:-

a FREE Sale-a-bration item from the SAB catalogue
a Lucky Envelope that contains a gift worth at least $10. one envelope contains the Stack and Stock Caddy worth $69.95
one loyalty point in my rewards program. Many of my customers only need one more point to get a FREE gift (ie they are sitting on 4 points at the moment)

With today being February 1st, I only have 8 more weeks to reach my personal sales goal, and I REALLY NEED YOUR HELP! Place a qualifying order with me today and you can get your hands on some cool FREE products!

* available until March 31st at 5pm

Everyday Enchantment DSP

2012-01-28T17:01:00.000+11:00

Don't fall off your chairs...I have 2 things to show you today!

The first is a card that I made for my SIL's birthday a couple of days ago. I wanted to use the new Everyday Enchantment DSP that is on offer in the SAB catalogue. I was REALLY rushed for time in making this card (literally had 15 mins to make it and get in the car to go to lunch), so I turned to my catalogues for inspiration on what to make. If you turn to page 10 of the Summer Mini catalogue, you will see where I got the idea from. This is what the catalogues are great for, and I suggest that you keep them even when they go out of date. Because when you are in a rush, a rut or a dirty big crafting slump, you can get heaps of inspiration out of the pictures in these babies. Of course you can copy them directly....I often do! Nobody said that we have to be 100% unique all the time.

The 2nd item I have for you is this scrapbook layout.

Again, I got the inspiration from flicking through a scrapbook magazine that used small squares of different patterned paper as the background. I immediately thought of the new Everyday Enchantment DSP and how great it would be to showcase every sheet in the pack to you all. The picture is of my two daughters - Biddy and Bella - who have both developed the habit of sucking two fingers when they are tired. They also play with the satin tags on the backs of their clothes at the same time.....strange. Tom has never done this, so it must be a girl thing in our family.

One thing I do want to point out about how I did it, is the lettering. I don't own the alphabet dies for the Big Shot, so what I did was pick a font on my computer that was fat and then I enlarged it to the size I wanted. I also changed the line colour to a light grey - enough that I could see it, but not dark enough that it would be noticable if when I cut out the letters and made a sloppy job of it, that you would see them! I printed the letters out on my chosen cardstcok and I cut them out using my trusty paper snips and then I used a sponge with some Crumb Cake ink to "dirty" up the edges a bit and create a bit of shadow.

The number '2' I cut out using my Big Shot and one of the numbers die, and this time I used the On Board Sheets that you will find in the Big Shot section of your IB&C. These are GREAT!

Click on the pictures to see a bigger version. Check out the materials I used in the lists below.

DON'T FORGET....

My Lucky Envelopes - spend $100 and get a lucky envelope, each containing a gift of at least $10 value. One envelope contains the Stack n Store caddy worth $64.95
Any purchase of $100 earns you a FREE item out of the SAB catalogue
$100 purchase earns you 1 loyalty reward point
Workshop dates for February are filling fast. I have an opening on the weekend of Feb 11 or 12 for anyone that is quick to get in. Plenty of time to invite some guests.

Materials used:

Birthday card

Stamp - Curly Cute

Ink - Soft Suede

Paper - Pool Party and Very Vanilla cardstocks, Everyday Enchantment DSP

Other - Neutral button, hemp twine, gold smooch spritz, In-Colour painted brad

Peas in a Pod layout

Stamp - Calendar Alphabet & Numbers

Ink - Red Riding Hood marker (on the "2"), Soft Suede ink, Choc Chip marker, Crumb Cake ink, Mahogany Ink (from distressing kit)

Paper - Sahara Sand 12x12, Everyday Enchantment DSP, Lucky Limeade cardstock, Very Vanilla cardstock, First Edition DSP

Other - Vintage lace, Spice Cake designer buttons, Early Espresso Bakers Twine, Postage stamp punch, small heart punch, Modern label punch, Big Shot, Simple Numbers die, Distressing Kit, On Board sheets

items in orange feature in Summer mini; items in pink feature in SAB catty

2012-01-24T17:05:00.001+11:00

Yes, it is Sale-a-Bration time again and that means great FREE products for YOU! I have a number of catalogues here just waiting for new homes, so if you would like to get a free one just drop me a line! I will also be bringing some to every workshop I run from now until March 31st.

So what is SAB?

From today (24th Jan) through to March 31st, when customers place a $100 order, they will be able to choose a FREE item out of the Sale-a-bration catalogue. YOU CANNOT BUY THESE ITEMS, only earn them. And there are 4 delightful stamp sets to choose from, and for the first time, 1 embellishment pack (brads & ribbons) and a DSP pack. If you spend $200, you get a choice of 2 items; $300 and a choice of 3 items (and so on.....).

Hostesses are also looked after as well. If you host a workshop during SAB that makes a minimum $600 in sales, YOU will receive a free item from the SAB catalogue. And this would be in addition to all the other hostess bonuses you normally receive. Plus, if part of that workshop total includes a personal order of a min $100, you would get a choice of 2 SAB items!! WOW.

Want to join the Stampin' Up! family and be part of my team? Well, new recruits are looked after as well during SAB. Actually, I joined SU! during SAB 3 years ago (wow....where does the time go??). If you join during SAB, not only will you be able to select a free stamp set from the normal IB&C, but you will only pay $249 for your starter kit. This works out to be a saving of over $119.95! What are you waiting for?

If you would like to check out the catalogue online, simply click on the picture on the right hand side of my blog and you will go straight there. Contact me ASAP to book a workshop so you can earn FREE products. You have nothing to loose. Dates are filling quick (especially weekend bookings), so don't delay if you want a specific date.

AND DON'T FORGET.....
My "Lucky Envelopes" is running through to the end of March and for every $100 you spend, not only will you get fabulous SAB products for free, but you will also earn yourself a FREE envelope which contains a gift of at least $10 in value.

Plus, every $100 earns 1 point in my loyalty rewards program. So many of my customers are close to earning free gifts and stamp sets by just being part of this.

As you can see, the next 6 weeks or so is a WONDERFUL time to place a qualifying order. You can just earn so much FREE stuff. And let's face it; who doesn't like free stuff????

Decorative box

2012-01-22T20:45:00.000+11:00

Here is a promised SAB sneak peek!

I saw this little gem of a box on the internet (courtesy of PCL) and thought immediately how good it would look in the new DSP papers that are to be on offer in SAB in a few days! The paper patterns in this DSP pack are truly gorgeous and I hate to say, that I am reluctant to cut into them! But cut I must, in order to show you all - my dear and loyal customers - just what you can do with these lovely papers.

Oh, the sacrifices I must make.....LOL.

Along with the DSP, I have also used a brad (on the banner) and a stamp set (the flourish down the bottom) out of the SAB catalogue as well. Check out the list below to see what else I included on this project - some of it from the Summer mini catalogue and also some new and old In-Colours too.

As I mentioned in my post below, we were lucky to grab a couple of days at Apollo Bay last week. I often don't mention my family on here and rarely put up photos that are not part of a scrapbook layout, but I thought I would give you a treat to the 3 kids and the old man! Note that they are all decked out in wetsuits (well....not Bella, poor chook) so the water was not THAT warm. Well, the water was probably fine, but the air temp was not that warm (low 20's). I know I am getting old, because I couldn't be enticed to go in!! But the kids had a ball and were exhausted every night from bounding around on the sand.

Materials used:
Cardstock - Pool Party, Poppy Parade, Very Vanilla
DSP - Everyday Enchantment DSP (SAB)
Stamps - Fresh Vintage (SAB), Curly Cute
Inks - Lucky Limeade, Soft Suede, Poppy Parade
Other - Early Espresso Bakers twine (mini), Neutral button, Very Vanilla satin ribbon, dimensionals, rhinestones, Everyday Enchantment brad (SAB)

I know.... I know....

2012-01-19T21:06:00.001+11:00

I know that I said that I would load some more pictures of SAB sneak peeks on here very soon (and this has not happened), but I beg forgiveness as we were able to nick off for 3 days on a beach break with the kids and the caravan and it was an opportunity not to be passed up. So, card making and scrapbooking has taken a back seat for the minute. I am back on deck on Saturday with a class and then I PROMISE I will load some other stuff on here early next week. I have a great scrapbook layout to show you (easy peasy one that can use lots of scraps) and also a couple of cards as well.

Don't forget about my Lucky Envelopes on offer. I have already given away a fistful of free gifts. Scroll down to see post with details. I should add, that one thing that is not valid for this offer is the use of gift cards....sorry.

If there is something you would like to see me demonstrate or discuss, please drop me a line. I would love to know what you would like to see on here.

Lucky Envelopes

2012-01-12T20:34:00.000+11:00

I have set myself a goal of achieving $30,000 in sales for this current Stampin' Up! year (April - March). Whilst I would dearly love to buy this amount of product myself, it just ain't gunna happen! So I am calling on all my customers, friends and fellow crafters to help get me over the line!

I need your help to meet my goal!

I am running a LUCKY ENVELOPES event where for qualifying orders, YOU get to reap the gifts! I have envelopes numbered 1 to 65 and every envelope contains a prize of at least $10 in value....maybe more. One envelope contains a STACK AND STORE CADDY worth $64.95! It could be yours!

For each $100 you spend, you will get one envelope. Envelopes will be opened in numerical order. But don't forget:

each $100 spent earns you 1 loyalty point. Accrue 5 points and get a free gift; accrue 10 points and get a free stamp set to the value of $49.95. Many of my customers are close to getting free goods!
during SAB (24th Jan - 31st Mar), each $100 you spend will earn you a free stamp set or embellishment pack out of the SAB catalogue.

This lucky envelope event is open to my Big Shot and Hostess Club members who bump their orders up to meet the $100 minimum.

This Lucky Envelopes event runs from January 10th through to March 31st. I have already given out a couple of prizes! Contact me today to place an order or to book a workshop.

Newsletter and SAB

2012-01-10T18:29:00.000+11:00

My newsletter for January has gone out today and in it is some fantastic news. If you didn't get your copy, please email me and I will arrange to forward you a copy. In the meantime, why not fill in your email details in the red box on the left hand side and every month, you will automatically receive my newsletter straight to your inbox.

Sale-a-Bration is rapidly descending on us and I have just received my shipment of SAB pre-order. And oh my.....the stuff is delightful. This year, not only will you have the opportunity to earn FREE stamps, but for the first time, you will also be able to choose from DSP (yum) and brads/ribbon pack.

There was a sneak peek of some of the range in my newsletter, but rest assured, I will be putting more samples up over the next couple of weeks. Keep looking back here to see some of the yummy goodness we have in store for you.

I already have a couple of bookings for SAB, so if you want to secure your preferred date, please contact me ASAP to book it in. February 4, 18 and 25 are all booked.

January Class - A Year in Review

2012-01-04T16:09:00.000+11:00

Announcing my first class of 2012.....

For all you scrappers out there, this is for you! This class will be a full day class where you will make a 6x6 mini album featuring the Country Club Simply Scrappin' kit. The theme of your album will be "A Year in Review", however, you can tailor it however you like.

For the non scrappers out there, this is a great opportunity to showcase a number of photos that you have amassed throughout the year and showcase them in one place. Plus, there is the added advantage of getting some layout ideas for your cards!

What you will receive:

1/2 Country Club Simply Scrappin' kit
2 meters Pear Pizzazz seam binding ribbon
Adhesive
Full instructions with pictures (approx 20 pages)
Tea/coffee/cold drinks and snacks throughout the day
Room hire
Me!

You will complete 10 6x6 pages on the day (more if you work quick!) and you can either add pictures as you go, or put them in later on. I strongly recommend you purchase a 6x6 album to store your pages in (see details below) or bring one you have at home. You will have enough product and instructions to complete 20 pages in total.

If you want to add pictures on the day, the project requires:

Eleven (11) 4x6" photos in LANDSCAPE format
One (1) 4x6" photo in PORTRAIT format
Six (6) 4x4" photos

As I mentioned earlier, this class has been titled "A Year in Review", however, you can make it whatever theme you like (birthday, family getaway, kids school year, special event etc) by simply making all the photos reflect your theme.

Because this is an involved class, it will run for a full day. We will begin at 10am and finish around 3pm. You will be required to bring your own lunch (we will break for 30 minutes). If you have a paper trimmer, please bring this with you on the day as well (make sure you have it labelled though).

Date: Saturday January 21st
Time: 10am - 3pm
Place: old convent complex, Fireman St, COLAC
Cost: $40/person

STRICT RSVP is by 11th January in order for me to order the appropriate amount of product. The scrapping kits are not normally a product range I hold in stock, so it is very important that you reply so I can order for you. I WILL ONLY ORDER ENOUGH STOCK FOR THE DAY.

If you would like to order a 6x6 album to store your pages in, I recommend the Espresso Classic 6x6 album (item 122467 IB&C). If you order this BY 11th JANUARY, I will give it to you for $20.95 incl postage. If you order it after this date, it will be placed as an individual order and will attract a higher postage cost (total price $25.90).

There is also a linen post album available in Neutral colour (sort of a beige colour) for $38.95 (if ordered by 11/1 you will pay $40.95).

I will put up some pictures of the project in the next day or two for you to view.

Bookings are essential and I welcome new and old class members to this event.

December Frenzy...last days

2011-12-28T15:02:00.000+11:00

Just a reminder to you all that the December Frenzy sale winds up in a few days. A couple of items have returned to regular pricing (see list below) but there are plenty more that are at hugely reduced prices. Give me a call to get your hands on some great bargains!

I am also just about to replenish my stocks of mini catalogues, so if you didn't receive one, or would like to get one, please contact me in next 2 days before I submit my order. If you have contacted me in past week about getting a catty, I have your request.

I hope you all had a wonderful Chrissy. I have said goodbye to family today that stayed for the Christmas period and even with 3 kids in the house, it seems so quiet!!! No doubt, they are just recharging their batteries. We managed to finally get a family picture taken over Christmas and I will post that ASAP so you can see how much my little ones have grown!

December Frenzy products returned to full price:

Ornate Blossom wood mount - now $19.95
Every Moment wood mount - now $31.95

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T18:37:00.000+11:00

To all my wonderful and valued customers,

I wish you a very merry, safe and wonderful Christmas. May it be filled with laughter, family, friends and good memories.

To everyone that is travelling over the festive season, please stay safe. I look forward to working with you all in the new year.

Best wishes,

December Frenzy update

2011-12-17T14:31:00.000+11:00

The wood mount stamp set "Every Moment" which was advertised in the December Frenzy flyer for $19.17 has now returned to it's regular price of $31.95.

Please keep in mind that as various products on this special reach their sales limits, they will return to their normal retail prices.

Check out the list (click on the picture on the right hand side bar of blog) for ideas.

You still have time!

2011-12-17T11:50:00.000+11:00

"I don't know what to get them"

Does this sound like something that you have uttered over the past week? Is the person you are trying to buy the perfect gift for a little bit crafty?

Well, I can help you.

There is still time to order and receive a gift certificate from Graceful Impressions that can be spent on Stampin' Up! products. Certificates start at just $25 and go up to whatever you wish. At this stage, to have the certificate for Christmas, payment is only accepted by cash or by direct deposit (contact me for details).

If you require the certificate to be posted, PLEASE contact me BEFORE December 20th (that is this TUESDAY). Also, add on $1.20 to your gift price to cover postage. Certificates for pick up or local delivery can be ordered up to December 22nd.

Some Christmas card ideas

2011-12-10T18:23:00.000+11:00

I know I have been promising some pictures of Christmas cards.....ugh, time just gets away. No excuse though. Here are 2 of my own Christmas cards that I will be handing out this year. I hope to get on and post some more ideas in the next day or so.

This card is pretty much using up scraps of the DSP "Letters to Santa" that I had left over from various workshops and classes that I have held over October and November. I teamed it with some of the wonderful Cherry Cobbler seam binding ribbon and the GORGEOUS Silver Glimmer paper that features in the new mini catalogue which is now live! It is hard to photograph and keep it looking bright and shiny, so I tried again in the picture below....

...still not great but gives you the idea. Suffice to say, it is really spectacular in real life.

This card is a blue and silver version of the one that I made up for all the ladies that attended the SU! dinner last week. Except, their's was done in Very Vanilla, Cherry Cobbler cardstocks and Red Glimmer paper. This one uses the Silver Glimmer paper teamed with Marina Mist and Night of Navy cardstocks. I also used (on all the cards) the delightful Very Vanilla Velvet ribbon that features in the mini catalogue. This is beautiful to touch and creates a wonderful tactile addition to your projects.

If you haven't received a mini catalogue as yet and would like to get your hands on a FREE one, simply email me your name and postal details and I will get one in the mail to you next week.

Also remember dates for Christmas postage:

For packages containing SU products - order NO LATER than December 15th (that's next Thursday). These order will come direct from SU! warehouse to you.
For Graceful Impression gift certificates that are to be picked up or delivered local to Colac - order BY DECEMBER 22nd
For Graceful Impression gift certificates that are required to be posted - order BY DECEMBER 20th and add $1.20 onto your total to cover postage

If these dates are not met, I cannot guarantee that you will receive your purchase in time for Christmas day.

Materials used:
Letters to Santa card:
Stamp - Perfect Punches
Cardstock - Cherry Cobbler, Whisper White, Glimmer paper - silver
Ink - Cherry Cobbler
Other - Cherry Cobbler seam binding, Large Scallop circle punch, scallop circle punch, dimensionals

Blue Christmas card:
Stamp - Occasional Quotes (retired)
Cardstock - Marina Mist, Night of Navy, Very Vanilla, Glimmer paper - Silver
Ink - Night of Navy
Other - Big Shot, Very Vintage embossing folder, Lace Border punch, large oval punch, Very Vanilla Velvet ribbon, dimensionals

items in orange appear in the summer mini catalogue

December Frenzy

2011-12-01T08:47:00.000+11:00

If you are stuck for ideas for Christmas gifts, then this post is going to absolutely DELIGHT you!

Starting today and running for the month of December, SU! is holding a "DECEMBER FRENZY", offering select products at HUGE...nay, ENORMOUS savings! Everything on the list is between 30 and 50% off the usual price.

This is a truly fantastic opportunity to get your hands on something that you particularly want, or that you think would suit someone for Chrissy. However, if you are buying for Christmas presents, remember that as of today, that there are only 24 days left (or 17 shopping days....eeek!) until Christmas, so don't delay in getting your order to me as we need to factor in postage times. GET YOUR ORDERS TO ME TODAY.

To see the full range of what is on special, click HERE and you will be able to download your very own flyer with all the frenzy specials.

Annual Christmas get together

2011-11-24T12:07:00.000+11:00

As I foreshadowed in a previous post, we are once again getting together to celebrate the upcoming Christmas period and also the year that was of stamping!

I can now confirm the details:

Date: November 30th 2011 (Wednesday)
Place: Culture Cafe, Murray St COLAC
Time: 7pm
RSVP: Abilities only to me (email is great) no later than MONDAY 28th (earlier than this is most appreciated!)

If you are attending, please make a Christmas card to swap with another guest (leave inside blank). Meal and drinks are at your own cost...I have simply arranged the venue. This is a great opportunity to meet some of the other ladies that are involved in some of my groups, clubs and classes. Everyone is VERY friendly and I would love to see you on the night!

Mark it in your diaries and RSVP to me now!!!

Christmas Stitched Stocking set NOW AVAILABLE

2011-11-22T15:02:00.000+11:00

Many of you that attended my workshops throughout October would've seen the fantastic set "Stitched Stockings" and the matching punch. I combined this set with the Cherry Cobbler embossing powder and the chunky glass glitter on one of my demonstrations.

As you all know, SU! have this set in the upcoming Summer mini catalogue which goes live on December 1st, but for the month of October, you were able to buy it early. Well, once again, common sense has prevailed and SU! are allowing orders for this set and the matching punch to be placed FROM TODAY! So there is absolutely NO EXCUSE not to be able to whip up cute little Chrissy cards and tags!

I will load some pictures on here tomorrow of the Christmas cards and tags we made at the October class, PLUS I will also put up a picture of the demonstration I showed using the stamp set and punch. These will give you some ideas on where to get started on using the set.

The punch is $33.95 and the stamp set is $42.95 (clear) or $53.95 (wood). Give me a call or shoot me an email if you would like to order the stamp and punch (or separate) today!

Don't forget about your Chrissy cards

2011-11-20T21:00:00.000+11:00

As we are rapidly nearing the end of November, I want to remind you all that I have my Christmas Card kit still on offer for those that would like to make their own Christmas cards.

I would also like to clarify the colour scheme as I was at a function the other night and someone commented on not really liking the blue. The kit uses the "Letters to Santa" DSP range and as such, you will get a variety of DSP colours in your kit ranging from the blue that is pictured, through to green, red, chocolate and printed images. Of the 20 cards your kit will make, you will have 4 in each colour range. So if you don't really like blue, rest assured ALL the cards are not going to end up like that!

So if this changes your mind about the kit, and you would like to order one for just $32, contact me ASAP. The offer for this kit is only valid until FRIDAY 25th November. After this date, I will take no more orders for the kit (although you can order all the supplies separately if you wish). This will then give me (and you) enough time to place an order, get the supplies delivered, cut up the kits and get them out to you by the end of the first week of December. This should allow you enough time to make up cards and get them delivered in plenty of time for the festive season.

To see the kit contents and all the details, please click HERE.

Another great reason to join the SU team!

2011-11-19T11:28:00.000+11:00

If you are toying with the idea of becoming a SU! demonstrator, then I have an extra incentive for you to throw into the mix!

Until the end of November, if you join SU!, you will receive not only the fabulous starter kit valued at $610 for only $289, but you will ALSO receive a free stamp set which is being released in the upcoming Summer mini catalogue which goes live on December 1st (value $47.95)!

What a great offer!

Contact me to discuss the benefits and opportunities of joining the SU! team and also check out the "Join My Team" tab on this blog.

Christmas around the corner

2011-11-15T09:40:00.000+11:00

Ugh. I was sitting down comparing diaries with my mum yesterday making sure that we had various events booked in and it was scary to to how close Christmas actually is. When you break your time down into weeks, the time is just going to fly!

So, a couple of things that I want to mention to you to try and ease your Christmas shopping angst:

Christmas Card kit - if you would like to make some cards for the special people in your life but can see that you will not have enough time to devise the design yourself and then arrange buying all the individual bits and pieces, then this is for you. Simply purchase my Christmas Card kit and you will be on your way to making and sending 20 cards for the low starting price of $32. Click HERE to see the post with all the details.
Christmas Gift Certificates - if there is someone that you would like to purchase some craft gear for, but are stuck to know what to get them, why not let them choose for themselves? By buying a gift certificate, you can be assured that the gift you give will be EXACTLY what your recipient wants. Certificates start at $25.
Christmas Sale - I have a range of retired stamps and papers that may make that last minute gift buying a bit easier. I will put these onto my blogsite in the next week, so check that out. Some of the stamps are brand new, others are pre-loved, but all are in great condition.

If you are thinking of placing an order for Christmas - or you know of someone that is going to buy something for you for Christmas - I would strongly recommend that orders are placed by DECEMBER 12th to make sure that the parcel is delivered on time.

BONUS OFFER!!!

As I am now getting into the festive mood myself, I want to announce a special hostess offer.

Book a workshop for January 2012 and on top of the fantastic hostess benefits that Stampin' Up! provides, you will also get an extra FREE gift from me! If your workshop brings in $600 or more (before p/h) then you will receive ANOTHER FREE gift from me! Wow. All that FREE stuff. Makes me want to host a workshop myself!!!!

Dates are limited, so get in quick to secure your preferred date. Remember, workshops do not HAVE to be held on a weekend....think about inviting some friends around for a Wednesday session, or possibly hold your workshop on a Tuesday night. It may be easier to get people to attend a weekday workshop during summer as weekends tend to be very busy.

Things to note...

2011-11-09T16:50:00.000+11:00

My November e-newsletter will be going out either tomorrow or the next day, so if you don't already receive it and you would like to, simply enter your email address in the sign up box in the left hand column.

Christmas is rapidly approaching (my son asked me to count up the days....it is 46 btw), so you need to start thinking about your Chrissy cards NOW. If it is all too hard for you, check out my Christmas Card Kit offer (scroll down a couple of posts). 20 cards for $32. You can add any extras you need to your order. Offer for kit open until late November.

The Big Shot and accessories 20% off sale is now on. Check out the post below for the details and the link. This offer is only for month of November so don't delay!

To DIE for

2011-11-07T10:06:00.000+11:00

Thinking about getting a Big Shot? Maybe you are hoping that someone might buy one for you for Christmas? Or would you like to add to your dies and embossing folder stash? Well, now is the time to do something about it!

For the month of November, Stampin' Up! are offering 10% off a select number of dies, embosslits and embossing folders. PLUS there is also a Big Shot bundle where you can get a Big Shot machine, an embossing folder and an embosslit for 10% off!

Check out all the details by clicking HERE . Remember, this is only for a select range of products and only for a limited time, so get your skates on! If you would like to 'nudge' a spouse or partner in the direction of getting one of these for Christmas, get them to simply shoot me through an email or give my mobile a call and I can arrange all details with them!

Thankyou for your thoughts

2011-11-04T09:53:00.001+11:00

Just a quickie.....

Many of you have sent notes of well wishes for my daughter who has spend the better part of last week in hospital. I want to thank you for these thoughts as it was lovely to know that many of you were thinking of me and her.

I am back on deck now and able to place orders. In the next few days I will post a timeframe for placing orders for the Christmas period. Remember my Christmas Card kit which I released last week. I will be holding this open until around the last week in November and then I will close the offer - because by then, if you haven't made your cards, you are probably unlikely to do so!

I will also announce a date for any Colac and district ladies (or anyone that would like to travel), for our annual Christmas dinner. This will be in early December, so keep an eye out for that date and mark it in your diaries.

Christmas Card kit release!

2011-10-27T15:40:00.001+11:00

I am happy to announce the release of this year's Christmas Card kit. This kit will enable you to make 20 cards for the low price of $32. This is $1.60/card! Exceptional value!

For this cost you will receive:

4 meters Scallop Polka Dot ribbon in Old Olive
10 sheets Crumb Cake cardstock
2 1/2 sheets of Letters to Santa DSP (various colours/patterns)
2 1/2 sheets Very Vanilla cardstock
1 (and a bit) sheet of Red Riding Hood cardstock
100 dimensionals
1 packet rhinestones (you will have oodles left over for other projects)
cutting guide and instructions

To complete the card in the picture above, you will need to provide the following:

Something for Christmas stamp $19.95 (one of the a la carte stamps on page 15 IB&C)
Soft Suede classic ink $13.95
Scallop punch $30.95 (optional.....you do not need to scallop punch the red cardstock...you can leave it straight)
SNAIL $12.95; refill $8.50 (or another double sided adhesive)

STEPPED UP VERSION (otherwise known as a bit more embellished!!!)

For those that have attended any of my workshops over the past few weeks that have focussed on Christmas cards, you will have seen me use this stamp set and the 'direct to rubber' technique which is featured on this card. It is simply where you use individual markers straight onto the stamp to allow you to stamp multicolours in one go. It is very simple but effective.

For this card I have also sponged the edge of the Very Vanilla with Soft Suede ink and have sprayed the entire rectangle with Gold Glow Smooch Spritz.

To complete this second card, you will also need to provide:

Smooch Spritz in Gold Glow $7.95
Individual markers (Early Espresso, Cherry Cobbler, More Mustard and Old Olive) $5.95 each
Sponge $6.50 for 3 (each sponge can be cut into 8, giving you 24 wedges)

If you want to add any of the extras onto your kit order, I am more than happy to arrange this for you. For anyone that needs it, I can also provide a verbal refresher of the direct to rubber technique (or if you live local to me, you are more than welcome to arrange a convenient time to go through technique).

Please note, I am unable to accept Visa or M/card payments for the CARD KITS but am able to accept these forms of payments for any additional supplies. This is because the kits are coming from me, Graceful Impressions, whereas other extra supplies are coming from SU!

FREE stamp set and punch!

2011-10-26T12:29:00.000+11:00

A week or so ago, I mentioned the promotion that SU had for October for the Stitched Stocking stamp set and the matching Stocking punch.

This is the picture to remind you:

Well, I just want to remind you - and make it clear - that if you place an order of $450 or more, you will get a stamp set (in your choice of clear or wood) AND the matching punch for FREE.

Yes, that's right, for free. For doing nothing than putting in your order! I have already given away 2 sets just today to qualifying hostesses.

What are you waiting for? Get ready for Christmas and get a jump on making those Christmas cards early by using this great little set. This promotion only runs until the end of October and then you will not be able to get your hands on this set and punch until it goes live in the mini catty on December1st.

Tomorrow I will load some pictures of my Christmas card class that I ran on the weekend that featured this stamp set. Come back and check it out!

October newsletter

2011-10-18T11:54:00.000+11:00

Have you been wondering if you have missed your copy of the October newsletter? Thinking that it has been a long time between news items?

Well, it's not you.....it's me! I haven't gotten around to this month's newsletter yet, so I will be putting out a brief one in the next couple of days.

If you currently don't receive my e-newlsetter delivered directly to your inbox each month, simply enter your email details in the box at the top left of my blog bar and you will be automatically added.

Colac Garden and Lifestyle Expo

2011-10-18T11:50:00.000+11:00

For those that were unable to attend the Colac Garden and Lifestyle Expo which was held on September 24th, you may be interested in seeing what my stand looked like.

The three main crafting areas were covered (cardmaking, scrapbooking and OTP) in addition to featuring the fabric ranges that SU have recently released. All of the samples were made using products out of the current catalogue.

If you would like to see any of my samples in person, you can book a workshop with me and I will bring a selection of my work along with me. I will also be at the Elliminyt Primary School Trade Night which will be on November 12th at the Elliminyt School. I will have a smaller display at that event.

Christmas card class

2011-10-16T20:30:00.000+11:00

Some of you may have been wondering about my October class which will be focussing on Christmas cards. Well, I have not promoted it because it is already fully subscribed. If you are one of the ones that have missed out on this class, don't despair. I will be putting pictures of the finished project up on this blog after next weekend. PLUS next week I will also be releasing my 2011 Christmas Card kit.

For those that missed the 2010 version last year (click here and scroll down the post), it is simply a kit that I make up that contains most of the things you will need to make up 20 Christmas cards. As a general rule, the only extra things you will need is a stamp set (I will provide a suggested set that you can purchase if you don't own one), ink and adhesive.

This kit is great for those that find it hard to come up with a card design, or are short of time in getting things together to make up a stack of cards. So check back next week for the kit and remember, that it will only be available for a LIMITED time.

Christmas designs...and a winner!

2011-10-13T13:01:00.000+11:00

Before I start this post...I have realised that I have not announced the winner of the "Box of Stampin' Up! Goodies" (worth >$100) that was on offer at the Colac Garden and Lifestyle Expo on September 24th. So without further ado, I would like to congratulate LYN McMILLAN of Colac. Your name was pulled out of the box by my husband. I will arrange to get your prize to you ASAP. Thankyou to everyone that entered the draw and again, it was great to meet a whole lot of new faces!

It is now the time of year that you need to start thinking about your Christmas cards. If you like to create from scratch, then start having a look around at all the designs that are out there and the wonderful products on offer. For their part, SU have some wonderful Christmassy products that you should think about incorporating into your festive projects.

However, if you are someone that would prefer to be handed a design that you can generate a few Chrissy cards, then stay tuned for my upcoming Christmas card kit. Like last year, it will include most things you need to make about 20 cards. Details will be released soon.

For my part, I like to have a play with some of my supplies and see what I can come up with. I particularly like coming up with ideas using stamps and other supplies that were not necessarily created with Christmas in mind. The card I have for you today showcases this thought process of mine. You can see that I have used a stamp set that in reality is only partially Christmassy ('Loads of Love' p41) and I have teamed it with 'Well Worn DSP' (p129). By keeping the colours neutral and throwing in Cherry Cobbler, you can see that it makes an effective Christmas card.

I encourage you to look at your stamps and papers in another way. For those that would like to see this all in action, over the next month, any workshops that I hold will be focussing on Christmas cards and some of my demonstrations will be showing you how to make festive cards using non Christmas stamp sets. I am rapidly running out of weekend dates in the lead up to Christmas, so if you would like to secure one, please contact me ASAP to book your workshop, get some great ideas, possibly earn some FREE products and have a great time!!!

AVAILABLE Weekends from now to December:
Sunday 23rd October
Saturday 29th October
Sunday 30th October
Sunday 4th December
Saturday 10th December
Sunday 11th December

I have a number of Friday evenings still available if that suits. The dates that ARE NOT available are:
Friday 4th November
Friday 11th November
Friday 25th November

A bit of a catch up

2011-10-02T15:01:00.000+11:00

You may have wondered where I have got to....., well my hubby and I took the kids away for a few days of the school holidays (in Vic). With Tom now in prep, we are constrained to having our holidays in traditional holiday times. We took the kids to Ballarat to visit Sovereign Hill and apart from the first day we were there, we just about got flooded out! OMG it was wet. next time, we are going somewhere warm! And dry.

Back to creative stuff though....

Thankyou to those ladies that came along to the Colac Gardena and Lifestyle Expo last weekend. It was a great day and I enjoyed meeting up with you, including meeting some new customers. I hope you enjoyed my display - I worked damn hard on it! For those that could not come to the Expo, I will now be putting up pictures of my samples on this blog for you to enjoy as well. All of the samples I had on display used items from the new IB&C including the fabric range.

Thankyou also to the ladies that participated in my latest product share. With the exception of my mum and mum-in-law, I think everyone should have received their shares by now. And don't you just love the papers? Yummo.

SU! have released a very special stamp set and punch which you can take advantage of throughout the month of October. This duo will appear in the upcoming Summer mini catalogue, but because this isn't released until December 1st, it was thought that many people would have already made their Chrissy cards and gifts (well....you should have by then!). As such, SU! have taken the unprecedented move of releasing items EARLY from the catty in order for you to undertake your festive projects.

Hostesses can earn these items from FREE with a qualifying order, so contact me to book your workshop date ASAP. Click HERE to read more about this special.

To compliment this special, my October class will incorporate using these items (keep an eye on this blog in the next few days for details) and all of my workshops in October will also use this set as well. November workshops will also focus on Christmas items as well (unless requested otherwise).

Give me a call or email if you would like to order the Christmas Stockings set.

Colac Garden and Lifestyle Expo

2011-09-19T20:05:00.000+10:00

With less than a week to go until the Colac Garden and Lifestyle Expo, things have kicked up a gear in this household! I have been making cards, scrapbook pages and 3D projects like a madwoman all to showcase on Saturday.

If you would like to see a whole mass of new products and ideas, come along to my stand at the Expo and check it out. You will be able to enter a draw for a chance to win more than $100 worth of Stampin' Up! products and I will also have a kids card making area where the little ones can make 1 or 2 cards (under 8's need an adult though).

I will also be conducting a variety of demonstrations throughout the day, showcasing some of the new patterned papers and in-colours that have just been released. And if you would like to get your hands on the new 2011-12 Ideas Book and Catalogue, you will love the show special I will have!

PLUS......(yes, there's more), I will have a variety of retired stamps and patterned paper for sale at hugely marked down prices (some more than 50% off!).

So come along this Saturday the 24th September to the Colac Showgrounds. Expo kicks off at 9 am and goes till 3pm. Cost is $6 for adults, $5 concession and u/16 are FREE. There are a variety of activities for the kids including a treasure hunt, and for the adults there are more than 60 stallholders. Plenty to keep everyone interested!

It's up! September class

2011-09-13T10:35:00.001+10:00

This upcoming class is focussing on kids cards. Funnily enough, kids cards are not always easy to do because we walk a fine line between making them too much and making them too little. Let's face it, kids usually don't appreciate the card as much as the present, so you don't want to invest too much time in making them. However, that being said, if the parents are anything like my mum - or me, in fact - then the cards will be kept for the kids to look through in years to come.

So making cards that are eye catching, fun but simple and quick to create is the key. This class can help you with a few designs that you can use straight away.

In this kids birthday card class, you will make 4 cards. Two of them will feature simple stamping and punching, and the other two will incorporate a little watercolouring. If you own some Aquapainters, please bring them along. I will have some on the day, but if you have your own, you won't be waiting for others to finish. For those that have not done watercolourng, I will give a tutorial on this, so don't worry!

All of these cards use new product on them somewhere - stamps, inks, punches, DSP.....so this is also an ideal chance to come along and have a look at some of the yumminess that SU! have recently released.

Date: 17th September (THIS Saturday)
Where: old convent complex, 1 Fireman St, COLAC
Cost: $25 per person - includes everything. All you need to do is turn up.
Time: 1pm
RSVP: by Thursday September 15th

Bookings are essential as all materials are pre-cut and there are no spares available on the day. Numbers are limited due to seating arrangements.

If you tell me you are coming and you are unable to attend, you will still need to pay for the class. I will arrange to get the supplies to you so you can complete them at home.

September class

2011-09-12T20:46:00.000+10:00

For those that are waiting with bated breath to see what my next class will consist of.......you will need to wait until tomorrow until I can take a picture of the cards and get them posted! Sorry. I hate running so late with pictures of my cards, but September is a little difficult. Because even I can't order some of the stamp sets that I want to use in my Sept class until the 1st of September. So by the time the order is placed, the parcel arrives, I drool over it all somewhat, and then actually construct the cards....the time just gets away. However, I will have the pictures up on the blog tomorrow....PROMISE!

So check back and see the cute kids birthday cards that you can make!

Want to book a workshop?

2011-09-06T09:22:00.000+10:00

Just to let you all know that if you are thinking of holding a workshop on a Saturday, I only have a couple left between now and December. So make sure you contact me to book your preferred date.

Available Saturday's

8th October
29th October
10th December

I do have a number of Sunday's free, so weekends are not totally booked out. Friday evenings are not too bad either (or another night during the week).

Also, keep in mind that if a workshop during the week in the daytime suits you, I can also attend these. So while the kids are at school, we could get together with a few other mums and have a fun morning having a chat, having a play with some products and forgetting about the washing and housework that always needs to be done!

Contact me to grab your preferred date and let's have some fun!!!

September class

2011-09-05T16:37:00.000+10:00

I know that some of you are waiting to see what I am going to offer for my September class. I don't have any pictures for you just yet, because I am waiting for my supplies to arrive!! They should be here tomorrow or Wednesday, so I will quickly make up the class and post it on here ASAP.

However, suffice to say, we will be doing BIRTHDAY CARDS, mainly concentrating on kids birthday cards. We will be using some of the new DSPs and the stamp sets, Pennant Parade, Happiest Birthday Wishes (hostess set) and possibly another one too!

The class will be held on September 17th at the old convent complex in Fireman St Colac. Cost will be $25pp.

Oh, the excitement of the new catty.....it's all a bit much!

Remember to check out my product shares (see post below) that I have on offer from now until September 11th.

Product Shares

2011-09-04T12:49:00.000+10:00

Yes, it is that time of year again when I offer product shares to all my customers. This is a great way to 'try before you buy' or to just get a small amount of a range of products. if you like them, then come back and buy full packs later on!

This offer is only available until September 11th. Hurry!

I am offering 3 different product shares - Brads, DSP and Ribbons. Grab a share in one or all three. It's up to you. Prices are inclusive of postage (which is the postage from SU to me).

DSP PACK (4 shares per group) $23/share
you will get 1/4 of each of the following packs (cut into 6x6 squares):

Paisley Prints
Berry Blossoms
Well Worn
Mocha Morning (speciality DSP)

BRADS PACK (4 shares/group) $12.50/share
You will get 1/4 of each of the following GLIMMER brad packs (approx 40 brads):

Basics
Brights
Subtles
In-Colour (2010-12)

RIBBON PACKS (6 shares/group) $23/share
You will receive 1/6th of the following ribbons:

Cherry Cobbler Seam Binding
Crumb Cake Seam Binding
Old Olive Scallop Dot
Marina Mist Scallop Dot
Island Indigo Ruffled
Wisteria Wonder Ruffled
Denim Jean (blue)
Denim Jean (artichoke)

The share offer is available only until September 11th. Contact me to place your order.

New hostess benefits explained...

2011-09-04T12:01:00.001+10:00

One of the big changes in the new catalogue is the changes to the hostess benefits.

Previously, when a hostess reached $300 in sales (before p/h) she started to earn hostess benefits of free stamps and free products. These increased in amount as the value of the workshop takings increased. Now, instead of earning a free stamp set (broken down to levels based on workshop takings) and receiving a monetary amount of free product, you now earn "hostess dollars". With these hostess dollars, you "purchase" whatever you like from the catalogue as your reward. The amount of hostess dollars is still determined by the workshop takings, but they are increased in value and there is an added bonus.

There are no free stamp sets now, but, there still are stamp sets that are only available to hostesses. You will see these on pages 8 – 12 of the IB&C. You will note that there are 2 prices for each stamp set; one price is the amount of 'hostess dollars' that stamp set will cost you and the other price is the amount the stamp set would cost if it were available as a general sale (which it isn't….this is just a guide). So for instance, "Tagtastic" on pg 11, costs $26 (wood) or $21 (clear) when you use your hostess dollars, but it would retail at $43.95 (wood) or $34.95 (clear) if it were available to purchase by the general public.

If you want, you DO NOT have to buy a hostess stamp set at all. You can use your hostess dollars on whatever you like. So let's go through a couple of examples:

Example 1: $350 workshop takings
So the hostess (Amy) has a workshop that has made $350 before p/h. Looking at the table on page 7 IBC, she has earned $50 (hostess dollars). In this case, Amy loves the 'Simply Soft' stamp set in the hostess section. This will use up $26 of her reward money (if she buys the set in clear). This leaves Amy with a balance of $24. Amy also wants the stamp set "Three Little Words" on page 103 for $24.95. Because this is a little more than the money she has available, Amy simply pays the difference (in this case $0.95c plus 5% postage on the amount (0.05) which means she owes $1 for her hostess benefits. For those of you that have gone over on hostess benefits in the past (and most of you have), this system of adding to the amount has not changed.

Example 2: $550 workshop takings
Elise has had a great workshop and the workshop made $550 before p/h. Looking at the table, she has earned 80 hostess dollars. Elise wants stamp sets that everyone generally don't have so she is going to choose just for the hostess section. Elise chooses Happiest Birthday Wishes for $34 (clear) and Array of Sunshine for $16 (clear) spending her entire $50. She owes nothing more for hostess rewards.

Example 3: $550 workshop takings
Biddy holds a workshop and it makes the same as Elise's above. But Biddy isn't interested in any stamp sets because she has heaps and she desperately needs other bits and pieces. She has $50 to "spend" and she chooses to spend it all on cardstock and DSP. Biddy gets one pack of Big Top DSP ($18.95) and a pack each of Real Red and Tempting Turquoise A4 cardstock ($13.95ea). This leaves her with a credit balance of $3.15 which is forfeit.

Example 4: $1050 workshop takings
Gail is ecstatic with her workshop takings because it means she gets a bit more to spend plus an added bonus. Gail receives $160 to spend PLUS she gets 50% off 3 full priced item in the catalogue! Gail has been coveting the Big Shot for a while now, and now that it has come down in price by $30, she is keen to get it. So Gail uses her hostess rewards to get the Big Shot. The Big Shot costs $149.95, so she uses her hostess dollars for this, and with the $10.05 left over, she gets a Swirls Scribble Sizzlit die for $9.95. Remember, she still gets 3 items at 50% off, so she chooses the Fancy Favour Box (full $69.95; half $34.98), the Top Note die (full $39.95; half $19.98) and the Houndstooth embossing folder (full $14.95; half $7.48). The half price amounts add up to $62.44 which she pays plus 5% on top for postage ($3.12…total $65.56). So for $65.56, she has got a Big Shot, a sizzlet, 2 dies and an embossing folder!!! The total value of what she has earned is $284.75 and she saved $219.19!!!!!

OK, there are any number of different ways to use your hostess dollars. If you are confused, speak to me before you use them and I will help make sure you get the best "bang for your buck". But as you can see, there is a lot more flexibility in what you can do with your rewards.

It's here!

2011-09-01T08:46:00.001+10:00

The brand new Ideas Book and Catalogue is LIVE from today.

Click HERE to see the catalogue online

There are just so many wonderful things in here, that I can't fit them all in this small post, so you will just have to get your hands on a copy of your own to look! Or, view a catty online by clicking on the picture on the right hand side of my blog, or on the caption of the picture above.

I have put up a few sneak peeks over the past few weeks, but now I will be able to go hell for leather! I will be sending out a newsletter either later today or tomorrow with a stack of information, so if you don't receive this, either enter your email address in the red sign up box on the left of my blog, or send me an email and I'll make sure you are added to the list.

To leave you (for now) with a SEPTEMBER SPECIAL.....Stampin' Up! are offering the start up kit to anyone that would like to become a demonstrator for just $169! That's amazing! I will be providing more information, but if you would like to find out the details in the meantime, simply click HERE and you will be taken to the SU page that explains all!

OK, I have to go take kids swimming and do a spot of grocery shopping before my family all starve. Around the time of year of a main catty launch, my family tend to dissolve into the background, so I better make sure that there is enough food in the house to sustain them!!

It's almost here

2011-08-31T22:58:00.000+10:00

It is currently 10.55pm and there is only just over 1 hour left until our BRAND NEW Ideas Book and Catalogue goes live. OMG, I am so excited. There are some fantastic new products in there, so you just have to get your very own copy to drool over!

Send me an email to get your copy ($12.95 + postage) because let's face it......looking at cattys online just isn't the same!!

tick....tick....tick.....

Other Elite Stampers Challenge

2011-08-29T16:18:00.001+10:00

This was the 3rd card that I made for the Elite Stampers cyber crop over the weekend. Thought you would like to see it...

This challenge was about using texture. I have used the Vintage Wallpaper embossing folder, a new embossing folder from the upcoming IB&C (the small oval), and a button form the neutrals pack. I have also used the Silver and Gold Smooch Spritz (which I have been hoarding) that is making a return in the new catalogue!! Yay.

The stamp sets used were the Clearly for You set and a brand new Birthday set which is one of the new hostess gift sets!

Have a go at this challenge yourself and see what you come up with.

Don't delay...

2011-08-28T13:43:00.000+10:00

There are only 3 more days left of the old IB&C which includes products on the retirement list. If there is anything that you want off that list, you need to contact me BEFORE Wednesday. Timelines for orders are as follows:

Orders that are paid for via direct deposit will be accepted until Monday 29th
Orders that are paid for with cash will be accepted until 2pm Wednesday 31st (arrange with me to get money)
Orders that are paid for via Visa or Mastercard will be accepted until 9pm on Wednesday 31st

After 9pm, I cannot guarantee that your order will make the cutoff (due to me checking emails and also because of internet traffic). As such, if you want something, I suggest that you order ASAP. Remember, once the items off the product list are gone, they are GONE.

September 1st marks the launch of the brand new Ideas Book and Catalogue. If you are not part of my stamp clubs (who have already received theirs!) or have not contacted me to pre-order, then don't miss out on all the excitement. Shoot me an email and put your name down on the list to get your very own hard copy of the IB&C to be delivered in the first week of September (price $12.95 plus postage)

Elite Stampers Cyber Stamp

2011-08-26T22:43:00.000+10:00

This weekend I am participating in a cyber stamp with a group of SU! demonstrators known as the Elite Stampers (of which I'm one of). So far, I have completed 2 challenges which I am going to share with you.

The first was to create a Christmas card using non traditional colours (eg red and green). This is my take on the challenge:

The second one was a sketch (I haven't got the sketch for you, but trust me, all I did was rotate the skethc 90 degrees). This is my creation:

There is one more challenge, but it is getting a bit late for my brain to be creative, so I think I'll leave it until tomorrow to complete! Check back tomorrow.

New catty launch

2011-08-25T21:18:00.000+10:00

Depending on how computer savvy you are, and if you do some blog surfing, you may have noticed that there are a few other demonstrators holding New Catalogue Launch Parties. I am not going to be doing one per se because I will be at the St Mary's Garden and Lifestyle Expo on September 24th with a display. It will be here that I will be launching the new IB&C to my customers and the wider Colac and District.

I will be emailing all my customers in a few weeks with an invite to the Expo, so if you know someone that you think would like to see the new products and ranges in the IBC, let me know and I'll shoot them an email too!

I have been extremely busy these past few weeks making card samples and scrapbook layouts using some of the new products. They are really inspiring and fun to use. I encourage you to come along to the Expo and check out the new things on offer. There will also be the chance to win a basket of SU! goodies. Mark it in your diaries to visit me at the SU! stand at the St Mary's Expo. If you don't have a catalogue, they will be on sale on the day (or free if you book a workshop with me).

Can it be nearly that time already?

2011-08-21T18:32:00.000+10:00

Christmas comes early for cardmakers, because if you want to make your own cards and send them out, you need to be thinking about it NOW and doing something about it in around September or October (early November at the latest). The biggest trap that people fall into, is leaving it all too late. I know that it seems waaaaaaay too early to be talking about Chrissy, but honestly, it is only 4 and half months away. If you want to get cards out, then you really only have 3 months.

So, to get the ball rolling, I have made up a sneak peek using one of the brand new Christmas stamp sets in the upcoming IBC. This set is oh so cute and has the potential of being made up in so many ways. For this card, I have stamped the image in Basic Black and then coloured it in with my markers. I also used watercolour paper, because I knew I would be putting a bit of ink on the paper and I didn't want it to pill or warp.

This set is going to be perfect for my son's teachers come Christmas because it is a more religious one and he attends a Catholic primary.

This second card is one that I very quickly made up using some of the brand new Flirtacious DSP. This paper featured in my last posted scrapbook layout, but for this card, I simply cut out one of the doily shapes to be the focus of the card. I also used a new flower stamp as a background and cut a butterfly using the Big Shot out of some of the Flirtacious DSP too. Oh, and the trim was simply cardstock that I put through the Big Shot using the Tasteful Trim border die (ahhh...there's some info for you! This die was in the Autumn Winter catty and is going to feature in the upcoming IBC!!)

If you like the idea of being able to easily cut out various shapes for your cards or scrapbook pages, then contact me about nabbing the FINAL spot in my upcoming Big Shot Club. This monthly club allows you to pay off your Big Shot PLUS a heap of accessories. For scrappers, the benefit of a Big Shot means that you never, EVER have to run out of vowels for your titles again, because with the alphabet dies, you simply cut the letters you need! Wonderful.

Card sneak peeks

2011-08-15T18:13:00.000+10:00

We are coming to the end of the sneak peeks I have for you....oh, alright, maybe one or two more! My stamp club members have started to receive their brand new IB&C and they have been SUPER excited! If you would like to get a copy for yourself to have in your hand by September 1st, email me and I will add your name to my list. All pre-orders for the catty must be with me by August 20th (that's this Saturday) in order for me to get the catty to you on time. Cost is $12.95 pick up or local drop off, or $12.95 plus postage if you require it. Payment would be by cash or direct deposit....I can email account details if you require them.

Onto the cards I have for you today. The first one incorporates some of the patterned paper that featured on my 'Sweetheart' scrapbook layout form the other day. This is the "Beau Chateau" DSP and it is truly beautiful. And those with a keen eye may spot some glitz on the card. yes, the gold Smooch Spritz is making a comeback along with the Silver Foil and a couple of new colours too. I am very excited about this as I used this product to death when it was in the Summer mini.

thanks to Becky Roberts for the inspiration of this card!

This second card showcases the 5 new In-Colours for 2012-2013. What you are looking at is Pool Party (light blue), Island Indigo (darker blue), Lucky Limeade (green), Wisteria Wonder (purple), Calypso Coral (pinky coral colour). The other new items on this card are the stamp set (Pennant Parade) and the matching punch! Hooray....'bout time we had a pennant set!

I am thinking that Pool Party is going to be my new favourite colour - especially with summer approaching!

Oh, and just a quickie.....I have a few spare spots for my class on Saturday. Click HERE to see the details. A couple of my regulars have had to pull out of this session. Usually, my classes are full, so if you would like to grab the opportunity of a number of vacancies, then give me a call and join in!

Another scrapbook sneak peek

2011-08-13T13:22:00.001+10:00

For all your scrappers out there....another layout using some of the yummy goodness that is just waiting for you in the upcoming IBC. This layout incorporates both paper and fabric BOTH in the same design family! Yes, that's right, not only is SU! co-ordinating its cardstocks, inks and DSP, but now it is throwing FABRIC into the mix.

You can see the DSP which is the border of the title (the purple paper) is exactly the same as the fabric of some of the flowers. So matching things is so easy!

No, I DID NOT punch out those doily shapes......this is one of the papers from the DSP pack "Flirtatious". Lovely stuff.....wanted to use the whole sheet as I nearly couldn't bring myself to cut it. The journalling is printed onto vellum and is actually much easier to read in real life than in this photo. And I printed the title directly onto some DSP after I had cut it with the Top Note die through the Big Shot. And that is how I made the flowers too.....I ran the fabric through the Big Shot using the Flower Folds die. So simple and easy to do. I just sewed a button from the Brights pack onto the centre of each flower bundle with some of the linen thread. Done!

For the card makers out there, I will have another couple of sneak peeks for you in the coming days. Stay tuned!

A scrapbooking sneak peek!

2011-08-11T18:28:00.000+10:00

Oh, the DSP that is coming in the new IB&C is just DIVINE. They are so yummy that you don't even want to cut into them (sad hey?!)

I spy with my little eye.......is that FABRIC??? (why yes, it is!!)

For the title, I simply painted some of the SU chipboard letters white with some paint, and then I stamped over them with the flourish from 'Elements of Style' in Soft Suede and sponged around the edges! Beautiful!

I will load another scrapbook page in the next few days, so check back!

Card and a half challenge

2011-08-08T17:45:00.000+10:00

I am participating in a challenge over at Card and a Half (join me!). This extra challenge is to make a card that has flowers on it. Not so hard.......you'd think!

This is my creation....

Now there is a lot going on with this card, AND there is also some non SU! product on there. Now I want to take pains to make a point about me using non SU! products on my creations. YES I do use other companies products from time to time - especially on my scrapbooking layouts - but NO I don't generally load them onto this blog. YES I do believe that you should use what you have in your stash, and NO I don't think you should keep buying stuff that you already have until you use up what you have first. YES I will identify when I use non SU! product, but NO I will not be promoting them. Phew!

OK, so what I started with on this card was really the DSP. I have used the 'Lap of Luxury' on this card and really, I am running against the clock to use up my retiring DSP stash before I can no longer use it. I fear I will have a bit left over. However, if you are local to Colac and are free on September 24th, I will be at the St Mary's Garden and Lifestyle Expo and will have a assortment of full and 6x6 sheets of DSP, retired stamps and some ribbon all for sale at HUGE discounts!! Mark the date in your diaries and come along and say hi to me. More details to come about what I will have on offer.

Materials used:
Stamp - Elements of Style
Cardstock - White Confetti, Lap of Luxury DSP, Newsprint DSP, Very Vanilla
Ink - Elegant Eggplant
Other - Curly Label punch, lace, Smooch Spritz (silver and gold)
non SU! - Smooch Spritz (log cabin), Epoxy flower Stickers (Kelly Pannaci)

Winner announced!

2011-08-08T17:24:00.000+10:00

Ok, after much deliberation and roping in my husband as second opinion, I am pleased to announce the winner of my first competition.

And the winner is..........

Michelle Caspar with this lovely creation!

Michelle's card certainly is simple as she uses just DSP and one sentiment stamp, however she has jazzed it all up by cutting it into a unique shape. Well done Michelle.

Michelle wins a container of buttons (her choice of colour family) and a pack of vintage brads. These co-ordinate beautifully with a new stamps set to be released in the upcoming IBC called "Button Buddies". I have a few sneak peek samples for you using this stamp set. It is going to get a great workout in this household! Michelle, please email me with your preferred colour for your buttons.

I would like to thank everyone who participated in my very first competition. I appreciate the time you spent creating your cards. Keep your eye out for more competitions later in the year!

Snail buddies

Piggy buddy

Materials used:
Snail card
Stamp - Button Buddies, Teeny Tiny Sentiments
Cardstock - Choc Chip, Very Vanilla, Subtles Patterns DSP
Ink - Choc Chip
Other - Brights buttons, hemp twine

Piggy card
Stamp - Button Buddies, Short and Sweet
Cardstock - Whisper White, River Rock, Subtles Patterns DSP
Ink - Melon Mambo
Other - White Organza ribbon, Brights button, Hearts border punch, Word Window punch, Circles #2 die for Big Shot, 1/16th punch

items in ORANGE indicate new products available in the upcoming IBC

More Clean and Simple

2011-08-07T20:03:00.000+10:00

Apologies for not coming in here sooner to announce a winner of my Clean and Simple comp. I have been flat out this weekend doing boring, mundane stuff like housework, but also I have been busy creating invitation samples for a friend's wedding which is coming up at the end of the year and I have been asked to make them!

Also, I have been very remiss to not post a friend's card for the competition. She was having trouble loading her picture onto the system and asked me to do it. And I forgot! And missed the deadline. But she DID give me the card last Wednesday and I took the picture then (I have witnesses), so I am going to put her card on here now and allow it to enter the comp.

This is Carol C's 'clean and simple' card:

I will be back tomorrow to announce both the winner and their prize!!!

Ready for some sneak peeks?

2011-08-02T12:22:00.000+10:00

Of course you are! You are all just waiting with bated breath aren't you? Well here are a couple of examples using the new stamp set "Creative Elements"

card 1

card 2

This stamp set will prove to be very popular as it comes in a set of 8 and has a range of images. The striking dahlia lends itself to straight inking - as I have done in the 1st card - or watercolouring. When viewed in real life, it is particularly lifelike.

The sentiment on the 2nd card belongs to "Inspired by Nature" which is a current catty item and will be carrying over to the next IBC.

Materials used:
Card 1
Stamp - Creative Elements
Ink - Soft Suede, Cherry Cobbler, Crumb Cake, Marina Mist, Choc Chip
Cardstock - Soft Suede, Very Vanilla

Card 2
Stamp - Creative Elements, Inspired by Nature
Ink - Wild Wasabi, Crumb Cake, Blushing Bride, Choc Chip
Cardstock - Naturals Ivory, Blushing Bride, Wild Wasabi
Other - bone folder (to get crease lines on front of card)

items in PINK indicate those that will feature in the upcoming IBC, released on September 1st 2011.

2011 retired list is out

2011-08-01T10:32:00.000+10:00

Here we go...the run to the end of the year. SU! released the retired list as of midnight and here it is. There are hundreds of items on it, some on discount of up to 40%!

As with every retired list, if there is something on there that you want, please don't delay until the end of the month, because usually once it is gone, it is gone. Even if that is BEFORE the end of the month.

Click HERE to download your own copy of the list and contact me to place your order.

LAST DAY for Autumn Winter 2011 Mini

2011-07-31T10:17:00.000+10:00

Today is the LAST DAY that you can get your orders in for any products out of the Autumn Winter Mini catalogue. Yes, I know some people think that various items will make the upcoming IBC in September, but even demonstrators do not know which will make it. So my advise (as always) is that if you like something and HAVE to have it, BUY IT NOW!!!!

For my part, I put an order in yesterday that featured heavily with the mini lunch sacks and Autumn Spice DSP. I have loved this range and feel of the paper, but I used most of mine in classes and workshops, and realised that I didn't really leave enough for myself for some scrapbooking projects I want to do.

You can be guaranteed that the Autumn Spice and Botanical Gazette DSPs will not make the new IBC. And a number of the stamp sets won't either. The Big Buttons and the Pom Pom trim will most likely not see another run. I have my fingers crossed that the mini lunch sacks will carry over, but hence my order yesterday, I have a few already winging their way to me just in case they don't.

Orders today can only be accepted with Visa or Mastercard payments. Email me your FINAL order today.

And don't forget to get your entry in for the Clean and Simple Competition that I am running. Simply link your picture of your card using the linkinz link in the post below.

Card and a Half sketch

2011-07-30T16:47:00.000+10:00

How many of you have been following the Card and a Half sketches? It never ceases to amaze me the wonderful talent that is out there. I feel like a very small fish in a very big pond when comparing my stuff to the masses!!

Sketch #3

This is my latest take on the current sketch. I turned it 90 degrees anti-clockwise and put the twine over the top of the image instead of something underneath it. But that is what sketches are all about. They are a starting point for your own creativity. I must admit, it started off completely different in my head, although I did want to use the Inspired by Nature set. This card was completed by using the braying tool and LOTS of ink. The gradients in the ink colours are not as clear in the pic as they are in real life, but I have to admit to needing more practice using this tool. I think it is one of those tools that once you become proficient with it, the world is your oyster. But you do need to practice!!!

Overall, though, I was happy with the image. The black flower was also heat embossed with black powder and some dazzling diamonds sprinkled on the heads. Some shadowing down the sides of the flowers completed the image.

How are you going with your CLEAN AND SIMPLE entry? I am so excited and looking forward to seeing what people come up with!!

Materials used:
Stamp - Inspired by Nature, Tiny Tags
Ink - So Saffron, Pretty in Pink, Pumpkin Pie, Rose Red, Early Espresso, Craft White, Crumb Cake (marker)
Cardstock - Tangerine Tango, Old Olive, Naturals Ivory
Other - Twine, small circle punch, Small tag punch, black EP, heat gun

Clean and Simple Competition Starts TODAY!

2011-07-30T07:00:00.011+10:00

Here we are.....official kick off day for the Clean and Simple competition. The rules are simple...create a card that showcases the concept of simple designs that are not too fussy and then load it up here.

If you have your own blog, simply load your picture into a post on there and then link it to here. If you use Picassa or another online photo storage, likewise, you can link the URL of the pic to here using the link below. If all else fails, let me know and I can walk you through it.

If you want to set up a Picassa album, click HERE and start your setup. It is very easy and you only have to load on the photos that you want to share.

Competition closes on Friday August 5th at 11.59pm, so you have heaps of time to get your entries in. And yes, there is a prize. So what are you waiting for? Get cracking. Oh, and you can enter as many times as you like!

Clean and Simple example

2011-07-29T11:24:00.003+10:00

Here is the first of a couple of examples I will put up to show you what I think of when I hear the term 'clean and simple'. Keep in mind that your interpretation may be a bit different and that is ok. I guess what I think when I hear of it, is an unfussy card (or scrapbook page), not too many layers, clean lines, just a couple of colours, small amounts of embellishments, neutral base (although not always the case), and a bit of 'white space' (this is the blank space that occupies your card or scrapbook page).

I will load another example on here later today. If you click HERE, you will see that the butterfly card also subscribes to the 'clean and simple' look

Remember, the competition kicks off tomorrow morning at 7am and runs through until Friday 5th August at 11.59pm. And there will be a prize! So get your entries in! Simply load your imagines onto your own blog or through an online photo album such as Picassa and link it to here by using the inlinkz link provides in Saturday's post.

Materials used:
Stamps - Funky Four, Apple Blossoms
Cardstock - Very Vanilla, Certainly Celery
Ink - Certainly Celery, Wild Wasabi, Chocolate Chip (marker)
Other - Button (Brights pack)

Edited To Add: Have returned with another example for you....

the 'fussiness' of this card comes really from the patterned DSP. The rest of it is pretty simple.

The only tricky bit that added a bit of oomph to the card, was that the disc in the middle is actually recessed in. The image was stamped on Very Vanilla, coloured with markers and then adhered to the back of the cardstock and DSP (which had been pre-punched).

Materials used:

Stamps - Every Little Bit, Short and Sweet

Ink - Concord Crush, Basic Black, Pretty in Pink (marker), So Saffron (marker), Regal Rose (marker), Melon Mambo (marker)

Cardstock - More Mustard, Concorde Crush, Very Vanilla, Subtles Pattern Stack DSP

Other - Modern Label Punch

Clean and Simple Week

2011-07-28T08:59:00.000+10:00

I am going to host a little competition next week on here for all my readers. I know that sometimes designing cards or coming up with a concept can be downright daunting. But it doesn't have to be. So I thought I would challenge you all to think about designs that are CLEAN & SIMPLE.

I will arrange a link to be put on here where you can upload your creation, or alternatively, you can email me a photo and I will put it up for you. And the best bit is......there will be a PRIZE! Friday 5th August will be the last day in which you can submit your creation and I will announce a winner on Saturday 6th.

Come on, join in! It is very easy and for a small expense of your time, you could win something! I will put a couple of examples up on this blog tomorrow and the competition officially kicks off this Saturday. So you have 7 days to create something!

I look forward to seeing what you come up with.

This week only..

2011-07-26T17:42:00.000+10:00

If you are wanting to get your hands on the terrific FREE button and ribbon pack, then you only have this week to do it. The special ends on July 31st, so contact me to place your qualifying order TODAY. Also, the Autumn Winter mini catalogue finishes on July 31st, so if there is any last minute orders that you need to place, make sure that you get them to me ASAP. I cannot say what items - if any at all - will make the upcoming IBC in September. My advise is, if you love it and want it....BUY IT.

Orders of $100 or more (before p/h) will automatically have a button and ribbon pack added. How easy is that? You don't even have to remember to order them!

Check out some more of my examples below using the Ice-cream Parlour range. What can you come up with?

This card is VERY easy, because I have used one of the note cards (p 123 IBC; $9.50 for 20). The big plus of these is that the cards are already cut scored AND come with an envelope! All I had to do was punch 3 butterflies using the butterfly punch, glue a button into the middle of each, pop some ribbon across the bottom and stamp a sentiment. Honestly, it took me less than 90 sec to do this card! Imagine how many you could do in one sitting. With all the little girls birthday's we will be facing in the coming months and years, easy cards like these are definitely.....on the cards!! (ha ha ha.......oh, I crack myself up........)

Materials used:
Button card
Stamp - Sew Suite
Ink - Always Artichoke
Paper - Pacific Point, Confetti White, Sweet Stitches DSP
Other - Buttons and Ribbon from FREE GIFT pack

Butterfly card
Stamp - Teeny Tiny Sentiments
Ink - Melon Mambo
Paper - Pacific Point, Melon Mambo, Daffodil Delight (all scraps), Notecard
Other - Butterfly punch, Buttons and Ribbon from FREE GIFT pack

items in orange are in mini catalogue which finishes end of THIS month

Online class

2011-07-23T20:13:00.001+10:00

Well, it has been 4 weeks since I have been doing my online class and I have picked up some nifty tricks and tips along the way. And of course, I will be passing these onto you over the coming weeks. In fact, I am going to delivering one new technique that I learned in my upcoming August class where we will be making Masculine Cards. Please join me for this!

But here is this weeks colour combo....much more to my liking!

And here is my card using this colour combo. I used Pear Pizzazz, Wild Wasabi, Marina Mist, Baja Breeze and Whisper White for the colours. I simply stamped a repeated image across the page and then stamped the bird image in Stazon ink onto acetate (window sheets) and then popped it up using dimensionals. It creates a little window...sort of!

Like this? Want to see me do it for you and your friends? Then give me a call to book a in-home workshop and I'll be glad to show you how effective this card is in real life and how you too can easily re-create it. Think of Chrissy cards.....this would be great in greens and reds!

Remember, the stamp set I used is in the mini catty which is about to end on JULY 31st. If you like it...BUY IT NOW.

Materials used:
Stamp: Clearly for You
Ink: Pear Pizzazz, Wild Wasabi, Marina Mist, Baja Breeze, Whisper White, Stazon
Cardstock - Crumb Cake, Whisper White
Other - White embossing powder, circle punch, scallop circle punch, window sheets, Marina Mist ribbon, staple, corner rounder

August class - Men's cards (Father's Day)

2011-07-23T16:48:00.001+10:00

Stuck for men's cards? Need some inspiration? Well this is the class for you. In this class, I will show you how to make 3 masculine themed cards using a couple of stamps, the Big Shot and a couple of punches.

These cards are very quick and easy to whip up and you will also get envelopes which you can stamp to match the cards and have them ready to give on Father's Day (if you wish). PLUS, I will also show you a nifty new technique for making a multicoloured background! Very cool.

I will bring additional sentiments with me on the day, so you need not make these for Father's Day. They could be for male birthday, retirement, thankyou....anything really.

When: 20th August
Where: old convent complex, 1 Fireman St, COLAC
Time: 1pm
Cost: $25
RSVP by August 17th. Places are limited due to seating and bookings are ESSENTIAL so that I have enough supplies on the day (kits are pre-cut prior to class).

If you RSVP that you are coming, but cannot make the day, you will still need to pay the money and I will get the kit to you to complete at home.

Free Button and Ribbon pack

2011-07-18T22:00:00.000+10:00

A week or so ago, I wrote a post about the fabulous ribbon and button pack you will receive if you place an order of >$100 during July. I also mentioned that I would post a picture of a creation of mine using said buttons and ribbons.

Well, it has taken me a bit longer than I would have liked, but here is the creation:

I am in LOVE with the mini lunch sacks (I hope and pray that they make it to the next IB&C). In fact, I love them so much that my next order is going to include about 3 or 4 packs of these just in case! Yes, once a product runs out, it is impossible for me to get them too! And they suit kids birthday parties so well (remember Bella's party bags with the ladybugs on them?). Biddy's birthday is coming up at the end November and I'm thinking of a circus theme and I have some ideas popping around my head already......

But back to this example. I used the a la carte stamp "Hello Blossoms" from the IBC and teamed it with not ink from the stamp pads, but markers. Yep, that is how I got the green stems and grass and coloured flowers all in one go. Like it? Want to see me do it for you? Well all you need to do is give me a call or shoot me an email and book a workshop. I'd be happy to demonstrate this very easy - yet effective - technique for you and your friends.

Materials used:
Stamp - Hello Blossom (a la carte)
Ink - Regal Rose, Daffodil Delight, Garden Green, Pumpkin Pie markers
Cardstock - Very Vanilla, Tempting Turquoise
Other - Mini Lunch Sack, Scallop Edge punch, Ribbon and Buttons from free gift pack, glue dots, mini library clip (also LOVIN' these!!)

Hostess club and Big Shot club

2011-07-17T21:06:00.001+10:00

Thankyou to everyone that showed an interest in my upcoming hostess club (aka stamp club). This club, beginning on 15th August is now FULLY SUBSCRIBED.

If you missed out and would like to participate in my next club, please email me an I will put your name on the list. Current members get first dibs; any spots vacant after this offer are then filled from my waiting list and any other spots are open to all.

The list of members for my 4th round of hostess clubs is:

Michelle C
Marie B
Barb B
Sharon McL
Heather A
Susie A

Ladies, you will receive an email from me in the next day or so regarding the hostess roster and the details surrounding the upcoming 12 months.

For those that are interested in participating in the BIG SHOT CLUB, I now have only 1 spot remaining. DON'T MISS OUT!!! For all details, please refer to the 'Clubs and Groups' page of this blog. This is a fantastic way of obtaining your Big Shot and great value for money!

Thinking of joining SU?

2011-07-15T08:58:00.001+10:00

If you have been toying with the idea of becoming a SU! demonstrator, now is a great time to do something about it! We are only weeks away from launching into a new catalogue year and with that comes renewed enthusiasm from our customers about the products on offer.

The starter kit has everything you need to get up and going as a new demo all for the low price of $289*. Sure, there are some criteria that you must fill to be a demonstrator, but I am happy to talk you through these. The best bit about it all, is that there are NO PENALTIES if you decide that being a demonstrator is not for you. Simply come back to me as a customer!!

Speak to me about getting a recruit kit which contains all the information you need to make a decision that can change your life!

*this is the basic price. For an extra $75, you can include a scrapbooking add-on which will extend your repertoire as a demo even further!

Another card for my class

2011-07-14T16:22:00.000+10:00

Jeez...I wanted to have this up by now...anyway, here it is. The colour combo this week is more to my liking, but when I went to put the card together, I was having all these doubts! Arghhhh. I think it was a case of too many ideas and not enough time to put them all together. However, I am happy with this card. And I particularly like the little itty bitty library clip that I used which can be found in the IBC.

Materials used:

Cardstock: Chocolate Chip, Real Red, Crumb Cake, Soft Suede

Stamps: Just Believe

Ink: Versamark

Other: Very Vanilla satin ribbon, white emboss powder, heat gun, mini library clip, Lots of Tags die, Big Shot, Scallop Trim edge and corner punches, white gel pen

The other thing I was to remind you of is my BIG SHOT CLUB that I am starting up. I only have 2 places free. Once these are filled we will be off and running. Remember, you will be getting $400 worth of value for only $300. Click on the 'Clubs and Groups' tab to check out the details, or contact me to discuss.

Autumn Winter Mini Catty finishing......

2011-07-11T11:09:00.000+10:00

Don't forget that the Autumn Winter Mini Catalogue FINISHES on July 31st. All cash orders need to be with me by July 30th (which includes any direct deposits in my bank by that date) and credit card orders will be taken up to the 31st.

But please.....don't leave it until the last minute to order your products!

This week's card

2011-07-10T20:47:00.001+10:00

Oooh, I'm running a bit behind time with my cards this week. I have had such a busy week....I had 3 classes and an informal session, plus I made Tom 2 birthday cards (one from me and Mark and the other from the girls). Plus we had family visit, a birthday party to attend and on top of it, I am a bit sick (have the beginnings of quinsy!!! and am on anits and pain meds). Does it ever end??

Anyway, enough of my woes. Here is the colour combo of the online class I am participating in.

It was a bit of a stretch for me really, even though I quite like all the colours. Putting red with all those colours is not something I would have normally done, but I am happy with the result (which was the card I gave for the 40th birthday party we went to).

Materials used:
Stamps: On Your Birthday
Cardstock: Tangerine Tango, Wild Wasabi, Old Olive, Real Red
Paper: Greenhouse Garden DSP
Ink: Chocolate Chip
Other: Chipboard letters, Small heart punch, Crystal Effects, White Gel pen, fine Galaxy Glitter, Sticky Cut flower (retired), Brights Button, Scallop edge punch

July class - Multifold Scrapbook

2011-07-03T11:59:00.000+10:00

My July class is going to be a doosey! I have for you a Multifold Scrapbook Album which looks complicated and detailed but is really very simple to do. The theme of the scrapbook will be a Christmas theme (because of Christmas in July!) but following the class, you will be able to re-create this album in whatever theme you like.

We will be using the "Christmas Cheer Simply Scrappin" kit that is featured in the IB&C (p 131). Each participant will get 1/2 a pack and what you don't use on the day for your project, you keep and use on other projects at home! The album folds down to a 6x6" square making it the perfect gift for when you need to post. It has space for 14 photos meaning that you are not limited in what you will include.

For this class, you will be required to bring a couple of things with you:

14 photos at 3 - 3.75" square (refer to picture to see mine)
a paper trimmer if you have one (normally I cut all materials ahead of class, but you will be doing it yourself in this class). If you don't have one and would like me to order you one in, SU! sells this item for $39.95. Orders need to be placed by July 8th to receive by workshop.
your lunch

In addition, this class will go for longer than normal due to the construction of the album. The class will begin at 10.30am and will finish by 3pm. For this reason, I ask you to bring your lunch. We will have a 30 minute break during the day for lunch. Tea and coffee and light refreshments will be on offer throughout the day.

Date - July 16th
Location - old convent complex, 1 Fireman St COLAC
Cost - $40 per person*
Time - 10.30am
RSVP is essential by July 6th so that I can order required product from SU! I am limited to only 6 participants, so please book early. A number of spots have already gone! Bookings are essential - there will be no products available for those that rock up on the day..sorry.

*the increased cost is to cover the extra product needed for the project, however for your money, you will receive 1/2 scrappin kit, other cardstock, ribbon and adhesive to finish project, detailed instructions and pictures to re-create project again at home, venue hire, tea/coffee and my tuition.

If you RSVP that you are coming and you do not show, you will be required to pay the class fee of $40. You will still receive the class goods to do project at home.

If you are interested in this project as a Class by Mail, please contact me to register your interest.

Fancy some FREE gifts?

2011-07-02T15:45:00.001+10:00

Who doesn't like free stuff? Certainly not me. I jump at every chance to get me some free SU! products. And for the month of July, you too can get your hands on a free ribbon and button bundle with purchase.

Simply spent $100 or more in a single transaction and you will receive absolutely this cute ribbon and button pack FOR NOTHING. It will be automatically added to your order, so you don't even have to remember about adding it on.

I will have a sample made up which I will load onto here tomorrow for you. These buttons and ribbons are just too cute. Remember, not only will you get this FREE bundle when placing an order of more than $100, but you will also accrue loyalty rewards points with me as well, leading you to more FREE things!

Contact me today to place you order!

New stamp club starting

2011-07-01T07:44:00.000+10:00

As my stamp club #2 comes to a close this month, I am putting out the call for new members to join my next stamp club beginning in August.

However....I only have 2 spaces available! That's right. These clubs are very popular and a number of current members roll over to the next club year, so spaces are at a premium. If you would like to secure your spot in this club, email me NOW and I will put your name down.

What do you get for being in the club?

a free 2011-12 IB&C (members will get their hands on the catalogue BEFORE other customers)
hostess benefits to a minimum of a level 1 stamps set and $30 free product once during the club year
6 challenges
6 tutorials
invitation to a club members only event later in the year
free gift from me at some point throughout the club year
any purchases more than $100 (before p/h) earns loyalty points from Graceful Impressions

Club members tell me that this is a great way to space out your crafting dollar AND the fact that they can earn hostess benefits without having to host a workshop or come up with the $300 themselves in one hit is a huge bonus! In addition, you do all this from the comfort of your own home.

What are you waiting for? Give me a email to secure your spot. Stamp club #4 will commence on 15th August and members need to be finalised by end July. I already have 4 spots taken, so only 2 remain. Check out the 'clubs and groups' page on this blog for further information, or contact me.

Class for me!

2011-06-29T08:36:00.001+10:00

I have just joined a 4 week long online class (being run out of US). There are going to be challenges, techniques and lots of ideas that I am going to be able to pass onto you. My first day of 'classes' involved using a colour combination which I interpreted as Rich Razzleberry, Baja Breeze, Whisper White, Pumpkin Pie and Melon Mambo. The class isn't a SU! thing, so I have to Stampin Up-ise it all for you and my business!

So this is the card I created. I used a new stamp set that I earned as part of SAB earlier in the year. It is 'Flower Fancy' and for me it replaces 'Heartfelt Thanks' that retired last year. I also used some of the 'Sweet and Sour' specialty DSP that I have just a smidgen left. I am starting to run low on a number of my DSP packs, so I am starting to look forward to what the new catalogue will bring us!

Yesterday happened to be my MIL's birthday, so I was able to have a card ready to give to her!

Materials used:
Stamps - Flower Fancy
Cardstock - Rich Razzleberry, Baja Breeze, Whisper White, Sweet and Sour DSP
Inks - Rich Razzleberry, Soft Suede
Other - Eyelet border punch, Fire brad

Stamp club challenges

2011-06-28T11:18:00.000+10:00

As part of being in my stamp clubs, members are given challenges (which are voluntary to participate in) which are designed to get them thinking and creating throughout the year.

This challenge was set in the past month and was based on my daughter Bella's picture taken on her first birthday. The members were to interpret the picture in any way they wanted and to create a card or scrapbook page.

this is the picture....

this is my creation....

this is Fleur Harlock's creation.....

Fleur took the colours from Bella's t.shirt and the butterflies on her jeans and came up with this delightful card using a number of SU! stamp sets and some retired Sweet Slumber speciality DSP. Fleur also used the Top Note die to add a focal background. A lovely card Fleur. Thanks for sharing!

Feel free to have a go at this challenge yourself, and if you do, please send me a picture of your creation. I'd love to see what you come up with.

Big Shot Club

2011-06-27T17:36:00.001+10:00

I am rapidly filling the places for the Big Shot club, so if you are thinking of being involved, please get in touch ASAP to secure your spot.

So far I have 4 places filled. If you believe that your name should be on this list but isn't, please get in touch with me.

definite Big Shot club members:

Debbie McL
Sharon McL
Carol C
Tammy M

There are only 2 spots remaining. Click HERE to read about what the club is about and what you will get as a member. HUGE savings to be had!

Update on retired stamp sale

2011-06-21T22:46:00.000+10:00

Just to let you know - because I don't think I mentioned it previously - that I will be taking down any unsold stamp sets on JUNE 30th. They will return to the vault (aka my stamp cupboard) just like Disney is doing to the Snow White DVD!

So.....if there are any stamp sets that are still on offer that you are thinking of buying, please don't delay. Get in before June 30th and give them a second lease of life.

Another challenge sketch

2011-06-15T21:48:00.000+10:00

No, not a sketch from me (reminds me to get off my butt and do some for you gals!), but this one is from 'Card and a Half' blog.

Here is the sketch:

...and here is my take on it. I love this quote, but I'm not 100% sure that the font works with the other elements of the card.....????? Oh, well. it is done now. See, even I have some doubting moments over card designs. It's just that usually, you are not privvy to them!!!

Materials used:
Cardstock: Soft Suede, Naturals Ivory, Very Vanilla
Stamps: Natures Walk, Great Friend
Ink: Old Olive, Soft Suede, Marina Mist, Red Riding Hood (marker)
Other: Marina Mist satin ribbon
items in orange appear in the Autumn/Winter mini catty

Just before I go, don't forget about my retired stamp sale that is ON NOW. Almost half the sets offered have been sold (or about to be). Don't delay as someone may nab the stamp set YOU want in the next five minutes!! Simply click on the "Retired Stamp Sale" page on this blog.

Retired Stamp Sale

2011-06-11T18:43:00.000+10:00

Phew! I finally have sorted through my stamps, taken pictures, made comments and loaded them all up on here for you. Some of the sets I am very sad to put up for sale as they are true champs (Heartfelt Thanks, Very Punny...), but they deserve loving homes where they will be used!

All the terms and conditions for the sale are listed on the sale page. Please read these before committing to a sale! I hope that you find a set or two that takes your fancy!

Click HERE, or go to the 'retired stamp sale' page on this site!

Bella's first birthday!!

2011-06-07T22:52:00.000+10:00

I know! How can a year go by so fast? I really seems like it has happened in the blink of an eye. I know everyone says that, and I know that people say that as you get older, time goes faster. But it is TRUE. So sad.

In the past few weeks and days, Bella has mastered crawling, is standing by herself for a few seconds at a time (getting longer each time), has cut 4 teeth (the 4th one was Sunday), is starting to reject breastfeeding (sigh...), is becoming her own little person and is comfortably in the 25% percentile weight range! Yay!

We held her birthday party on Sunday and whilst the weather wasn't all that kind (the rain did stay away for the majority of the time), we had a great time with family and friends celebrating such an important milestone. Today is her actual birthday and there have been times throughout the day that I have been a bit teary, knowing that with all probability, that this is the last 1st birthday that our household will celebrate for one of our kids. The fact that she is nearly walking means that she is almost no longer a baby, but a toddler.

So why am I posting about Bella? Well, apart from being a proud mummy today, I wanted to show you a few of the items that I made for her birthday using SU! items. The theme of her birthday was ladybugs, and I got the idea after running my May class which featured punch art characters...one of which was a ladybug. I thought they looked cute and were dead easy to do.

I started the theme with the invitations. These were simply Real Red and Basic Black cardstock that I cut using my circle scissors cutter (the red circle slightly larger than the black) and the heads were a combination of the oval punches in Basic Black and Pink Pirouette and some eyes from one of the tiny circle punches. The spots were made using one of the larger circle punches (if you want actual measurements, email me).

The lolly bags were made using the mini lunch sacks out of the Autumn/Winter catty and a strip of Love Letters or Jolly Holiday DSP and a bit of black cardstock edged using the curly label punch. The ladybug was made as per the punch art class I held. I am seriously going to stock up these before the catty runs out.

This is the card we gave Bella. It is actually the card that we made in the punch art class, but it is so cute, I couldn't bear not to use it. Plus, it is oversized, so a little hard to keep in my samples stash as it doesn't fit in the container I use to cart them all around!

I have also popped on here a picture of the marquee when it was nearly decorated. This was thanks to my cousin Emma and my uncle Bret. You can see how I followed the ladybug theme right through. The large ladybugs on the wall were the same as the invites, but I just used large pieces of red and black cardstock and some black spot stickers from the newsagents. Those black spots got a workout because that is what is on all those balloons....I couldn't buy ladybug balloons anywhere!!!

Of course, I had to follow the theme with the cake, and I copied the card and the lolly bags for the design.

Finally, here is a picture of the little miss. Isn't she a darling?

Thanks for indulging me! Stay tuned this week for the retired stamps that I will be posting on here. Remember, first in, best dressed and CASH ONLY (or direct deposit). Also, my monthly e-newsletter will be going out tomorrow, so if you don't already receive it and you would like to have it appear magically in your inboxes each month (!), simply enter your email addy in the box up the top of my blog or email me and I'll add you.

Inspiration for card designs

2011-06-06T10:56:00.013+10:00

A friend of mine - Helen Jolly - has just started a blog called "Card and a Half" which aims to give you a sketch challenge every month. There are also some prizes to be won each month from different sponsors.

If you get stuck for ideas on how to get started on a card design, or you find yourself in a bit of a rut as far as creating different cards, then this site is for you. The first challange has been posted and I have had a dabble with it. For those of you that are unfamiliar with how sketches work, they are really simple. You just take from the sketch what you want. You can copy it exactly, or you can just use it as a base idea. And everything inbetween! It's YOUR card to do with as YOU like!

Some hop on over to Card and a Half (the name of the blog - I suspect - is a nod to Helen's FAVOURITE food in the world....chocolate! She tells us that there is always a block of the Cadbury's stuff in the house!). Join in on the fun and check out the wonderful works of art by some very talented cardmakers!

sketch

My creation - click on card for closer view

Retired stamps for sale

2011-06-03T19:41:00.000+10:00

WANTED

Loving home for much under-used rubber stamp sets. A partnership with either advanced or beginner stampers welcomed. Stamps will bring much joy to new owners. Would suit a home with kids that are up and coming into crafts, or conversely, would suit a single user home. Well behaved, low maintenance, little exercise required. When looked after properly, will provide years of constant quality and enjoyment.

Just to give you all a heads up that next week I will be loading on here a number of stamp sets that I own that are officially retired by SU!. Some of them are well loved, others are not even mounted!! [gasp]. Some will be heavily discounted, others will be closer to the original price, but there will be savings to be had on all of them.

The sets will be offered on a 'first come, first served' basis. Payment options for these retired sets will be cash or direct deposit only. I will post or hand the stamps over when the money appears in my account (or you physically hand it to me).

At last count, I think I had about 20 sets for offer. The only reason I am getting rid of them is because they are just not being used and they are feeling a bit dejected! Seriously, as a demonstrator, it is difficult for me to hold onto retired sets because I really can't use them for samples, workshops or classes. There are some that I love that I will be keeping, but on the whole, if they are retired, they need to go to a loving household.

Check back back here for details and pictures.

Wanna Big Shot for $69.95?

2011-06-01T17:41:00.000+10:00

If you have been humming and haa-ing about getting yourself a Big Shot, now is the time to act.

You remember the post I wrote about the extra hostess benefits that you can earn until June 30th? Well, if you host a $450 workshop, you will get a level 1 stamp set and $110 worth of SU! products. If you use the $110 towards the Big Shot, then all you will pay for it will be $69.95 (plus postage).

How fantastic is that?!

And if hosting a party that makes $450 is not your thing, then you can still join my Big Shot club which gives you over $400 worth of value for just $300 over a 6 month period.

Again, a fantastic offer!

Get in touch with me to book your workshop BEFORE the end of June in order to get your hands on one of these fantastic die cutting and embossing machines for LESS THAN HALF PRICE!!

Beautiful Butterfly

2011-05-28T16:48:00.001+10:00

I have to tip my hat to a couple of designers for the inspiration behind this card. Kirsty Brown and Tenealle Williams (both SU! demos) recently showcased cards at the SU! convention that I drew from to make this card. Thankyou very much ladies.

So what is on this card? Well, I have used the Beautiful Butterflies die - exclusive to SU! - through my Big Shot. And doesn't it come up a treat? Yes, there is a trick to it, and this may very well form one of the tutorials you will receive if you sign up for my Big Shot club! See what you will learn to do with YOUR Big Shot!

And what would you say if I told you that I made this card in under 10 minutes? Including the colouring in. Honestly. I could have easily made 10 of these cards in under 30 minutes if I wanted. Using your Big Shot makes creating cards a breeze AND a pleasure.

Contact me now to put your name on the list with those ladies that will be creating beautiful cards like this one (and more!) very soon.

Materials used:
Stamps: Bella Toile
Cardstock: Baja Breeze, Botanical Gazette DSP
Inks: Soft Suede, Blushing Bride (marker), Daffodil Delight (marker), Pear Pizzazz (marker)
Other: Beautiful Butterflies die, Polka Dot embossing folder, BIG SHOT (!), Rhinestones, Shimmer paint - champagne, Isocol

Big Shot Club

2011-05-27T10:05:00.003+10:00

I have had a bit of interest in being involved in this club and I would like to start getting it a bit more formalised.

I need 6 members for the club to go ahead. At the moment, I have 2 confirmed starters and 2 possibles. If you would like to become involved, please email me so that I can put your name on the list. As soon as I have 6 members, we will go ahead.

Essentially the way the club will work is that each month will cost you $50*. This will be over a 6 month period. During that time, you will receive:

2 cutting dies (choose from ovals, leaves #2, circles #2)
2 embossing folders
1 embosslit
1 Big Shot cutting and embossing machine
3 tutorials
free level 1 hostess stamp set
$30 worth of free product to spend on whatever you like

This is worth almost $400, but you are getting it for $300*!!!

(*for those that will require postage from me, your monthly amount will be $55. Postage for the Big Shot will incur an added amount and you will be advised at time of delivery)

This is a fantastic offer. Imagine being able to spread out the cost of a significant purchase such as this rather having to fork it all out in one go!

As you will be participating in a club, each month, you will receive one of the items each month. As such, one members will receive their Big Shot in month 1 and another member will get it in month 6.

Please contact me ASAP if you would like to be part. As soon as we have 6, we can get going!

Final Deal of the Week

2011-05-25T10:21:00.000+10:00

Here it is, the last of the 'Deals of the Week'. I hope that you have enjoyed the specials that we have bought to you this past 3 weeks. Remember, this particular special runs through until next Tuesday night, so get in quick to grab some of these great products at reduced prices!

This weeks deal is:

WHEELS AND RUB-ONS

Right on Track wheel (p62). Usually $11.95 NOW $8.37
Retro Remix wheel (p68). Usually 11.95 NOW $8.37
Vintage Type Rub-ons (p134). Usually $15.95 NOW $11.17
Play Date Rub-ons (p134). Usually $16.95 NOW $11.87

What's been keeping me occupied!

2011-05-24T17:07:00.000+10:00

Ladybirds! Lots of 'em!

I decided on the theme for Bella's 1st birthday party in early June. This idea mainly stemmed from the punch art class I ran over the weekend, but I had to modify the ladybird somewhat in order to make it big enough to be an invitation.

As I was up to my eyeballs in spots and dots, I discovered I had actually been in the process of doing a little technique that you can all benefit from. Shading and highlighting. I have taken a series of 3 pictures as I developed the ladybird; the first shows the red circle (the shell) just as it is after being cut out using my circle scissors cutter (that size of the shell is a 5" circle). The second picture with the black spots is where I have actually done some shading around the outside of the shell in Soft Suede ink using a Stampin' Sponge. The photo does not do this justice and I admit, it is not very obvious on the screen, but trust me when I tell you that in real life, the difference is quite distinct. The third picture is where I have put highlights on to the spots using a white gel pen. This is the finished product and I think you'll agree, the highlighting gives it that little extra.

For those that would like measurements:

Shell - 5" circle (using circle scissors cutter)
Body - 4" circle (as above)
Dots on shell - 3/4" circle punch
Head - Extra wide Oval punch
Face - Large Oval punch
Eyes - the small circle punch out of the Punch Bunch pakc (in previous mini catty)
Handcut antenae using fine strips of cardstock
Hand drawn mount with journal writer; eyes with white gel pen
Shading on cheeks using dauber and Rose Red ink

Love to hear what you think of my baby's invite!!

EXTRA Hostess benefits

2011-05-23T09:24:00.000+10:00

Earn an extra $70 on top of the usual hostess benefits when you host a minimum $450 workshop. This is fantastic. For example if you host a workshop that makes $500, you will get a level 1 hostess stamp set, the usual $50 in free products, PLUS an extra $70 to spend, taking your freebies to $120!!! Wow. Usually, the only way to get this sort of benefit is to host a workshop that makes more than $1,000.

And what's more, the $450 can INCLUDE postage! Yes, that's right. SU! have made it even easier for you to earn big rewards. But this is for a strictly limited time. The offer starts TODAY (May 23) and runs through to June 30th.

You will also accrue points for my own loyalty reward programme by participating in this special as well ($100 increments earns 1 point; be a hostess and earn 1 point).

What are you waiting for? Give me a call to secure a workshop date (weekend dates are almost exhausted for this time period, weekday dates still available). If you would like to run a catalogue party, you will still qualify for this promotion subject to workshop total. Give me a call or shoot me an email to discuss.

Now even easier to join Stampin' Up!

2011-05-22T10:27:00.004+10:00

Another announcement made at convention was that SU! have scrapped the need for demonstrators to have an ABN when joining up! This is great news for some that found the procedure difficult and time consuming to do.

But you may be asking yourself why should you join? Well, there are a range of reasons, from wanting to run your own business and be your own boss, through to being able to get first peeks at the new products coming on the marketplace. SU! welcomes demonstrators of all levels: from those that are hobby demos that purchase all the products for their own use at a discount, through to business builders that are looking to manage a large team.

Check out my page on 'Joining my Team' for more information and what I can do for you as an upline. Give me a call or send me an email of you would like further information.

Big Shot club

2011-05-19T18:59:00.000+10:00

Imagine being able to have your very own Big Shot machine and being able to create fantastic works of art for cards, scrapbook pages and Off The Page creations. And now, imagine being able to not have to have the money up front!

Does this sound like something you would like?

Many people tell me that they would absolutely love to have their own Big Shot, but find it difficult to come up with such a large monetary outlay all at once. I have thought about this and have come up with a solution.

A BIG SHOT CLUB.

I will post all the ins and outs over the next couple of days, but essentially, you will be able to buy your Big Shot machine, some embossing folders and cutting dies and pay them off over 6 months. You will also have access to a free tutorial, hostess rewards and if applicable, you can also earn my loyalty rewards points.

Sound good?

Check back here over the next week and find out all the details to this amazing club.

Deal of the Week #3

2011-05-18T12:35:00.002+10:00

Are you ready for another deal? Of course you are!

This week's deal is:

RIBBONS AND BRADS

Daffodil 5/8" satin ribbon (p137). Usually $16.95 NOW $11.87
Certainly Celery 3/8" taffeta ribbon (p137). Usually $12.95 NOW $9.07
Square rhinestone brads FIRE (p139). Usually $19.95 NOW $13.97
Square rhinestone brads ICE (p139). Usually $19.95 NOW $13.97

Remember, this special is only available until Tuesday night, so get in quick to secure yours.

Do you want more free product?

2011-05-17T08:58:00.001+10:00

At convention, SU! announced that for a strictly limited time, all hostesses that hold a $450 workshop will get not only the level 1 stamps set and $40 worth of free products, but also an EXTRA $70 worth of FREE products on top of it! Yes, that's right. You can get $110 worth of FREE products all for just hosting a workshop that makes $450.

This is a fantastic offer, but you must host* a workshop between May 23rd and June 30th to qualify.

And as an added incentive, for the first time that I know of, SU! is allowing the workshop total of $450 to INCLUDE shipping! That means that it is even easier for you to reach that dollar figure.

If you are like me, you probably have a long wish list! Imagine what you could have out of the IB&C or the mini catalogue for FREE. Plus, any purchases of $100 or more will qualify for my own loyalty rewards programme, going towards earning even more free rubber!

I already have a number of ladies that have booked in to take advantage of this special. Why don't you? Give me a call to secure a date for you and your guests.

*the workshop must be finalised and fully paid for BEFORE June 30th so that order can be submitted by qualifying dates

I'm back!

2011-05-16T10:01:00.000+10:00

I'm back from convention 2011 and all energised and full of great ideas for both my business and you as individual customers. It never ceases to amaze me the wonderful and creative talents we have in Australia in our SU! demonstrators. The quality of swaps (eg card fronts) was a lot higher this year than in any other I have participated in, showing us that we are growing and evolving as individual artists.

There were some exciting announcements made during the convention which I will tell you over the next couple of days and we got to see a number of sneak peeks which unfortunately for you, I cannot share :( However, rest assured from the very limited amount that we saw, you are going to LOVE what is coming in the upcoming IB&C.

On a personal note, as you know from some of my previous posts and e-newsletters, I exceeded my own goals I set for the 2010 year (up to April this year). I sold over $20,000 worth of product which earned me a $20K recognition pin and a free stamp set from the upcoming IB&C (so I can't show you it). I also got to walk across stage with fellow demonstrators that earned the award as well. It was very exciting for me and a great boost to my ego I can tell you!

There are some amazing sales demos though and one in particular comes from New Zealand, who sold over $100,000 worth of product all by herself! In one year! OMG, what an achievement. She did take out the top demonstrator of the year for NZ. I am happy to report that the #1 demonstrator for the year in Australia was Angela Sargeant who happens to be my upline's upline! And the #1 sales demonstrator for Australia was a friend of mine from NSW. So it was a very exciting night for our immediate team!

I thought I would leave you with a picture of my swap that I took to convention. This is a quick but effective little note card that you can easily whip up from scraps of paper and cardstock. Remember to keep an eye on this blog for announcements of some of the exciting things that came out of convention 2011.

Materials used:
Stamps - Nature's Walk, With Thanks
Cardstock - Very Vanilla & Pear Pizzazz (I also made swaps with Marina Mist, Cherry Cobbler and So Saffron which were in place of the Pear Pizzazz you see in the picture)
DSP - Botanical Gazzette
Ink - Basic Grey, More Mustard marker (although I used Daffodil Delight on the swaps I took - Bella 'lost' the mustard marker just before I went to use it!)
Other - square punch, square scallop punch, modern label punch, dimensionals

Convention 2011

2011-05-12T09:06:00.000+10:00

For those that are unaware, I am heading to Melbourne today to attend the annual Stampin' Up! convention. Each year it is held in a different capital city and this year it happens to be on my doorstep (so to speak...still 2+hrs away). I will be returning on Sunday afternoon but will have my computer while I am away, so you can still place orders with me.

Convention is a great time for demonstrators, because not only do we get to catch up with each other, worry about no-one else in our lives but ourselves, talk stamping and crafting things for 72hrs straight, but we also undertake training, get new and innovative ideas, and participate in some classes that are all designed to benefit YOU, the customer.

So expect me to return with some new ideas and enthusiasm!

Deal of the Week #2

2011-05-11T15:34:00.001+10:00

Well, the first Deal of the Week is done and dusted and week 2 is up and going. Check out the list below to grab some excellent savings! Remember, this deal ends on TUESDAY night (17th), so get in quick and secure your purchase.

PASTELS & SIZZIX DIES

Stampin' Pastels (new colour kit). Usually $28.50 Now $22.80 (pg 142)
Thanks Embosslit die. Usually $21.95 Now $17.56 (pg 151)
Sweetest Stem Embosslit die. Usually $21.95 Now $17.56 (pg 151)
Pennant Bigz XL Die. Usually $74.95 Now $59.96 (pg 155)

Pages correspond to the IB&C. If you don't have one, you can view online by clicking on the IB&C picture (in the right hand column), or contact me to order your very own copy.

Loyalty Rewards Programme

2011-05-10T16:34:00.001+10:00

If you have received my latest e-newsletter, you will have read about my Loyalty Rewards Programme that I have begun. I have also added an extra page to this blog (over on the left hand column) which spells out all the details you will need to know. Terms and conditions are published there as well.

As I am backdating points to April 1st this year, some of my customers will already have a points tally. If this involves you, expect an email from me outlining your points. If you think you should have a points tally but don't hear from me in the next week or so, please get in touch and I will double check my records.

To make things easier for you all, I will load on here a sheet that you can use to record your points tally. At the moment, the place that I am using to host the file for you to download is playing up (!), so I will let you know when this is available for use.

As always, I look forward to working with you all and am excited to be launching this programme!

Happy Mothers Day

2011-05-08T10:56:00.000+10:00

Just popping in to wish all mums a very happy Mothers day. I hope you have a special and wonderful day with your kids and loved ones.

Autumn leaves

2011-05-06T17:36:00.001+10:00

With the weather turning from summer into something decidedly cooler, I thought that this card was just perfect. Whilst I was taken with the images in the catalogue - hence why I purchased the set - when I saw them used with colours, it set them off wonderfully.

I don't tend to have things sitting in plastic for too long after they arrive in my house; I tend to want to play with them straight away. However, the Cajun Craze ink that I used for the reddish leaf on this card.....well I took it out of the plastic just for this set! Yes...the ink has remained untouched since the change over of colours. Good grief!

I have used every image from the French Foliage set on this card and I think it looks pretty good. Very rustic.

Materials used:
Stamp - French Foliage, Clearly for You (sentiment)
Inks - Sahara Sand, Soft Suede, Cajun Craze, Basic Black, Always Artichoke, Early Espresso
Cardstock - Early Espresso, Crumb Cake, Very Vanilla
Other - Hemp twine, button from brights pack