N.M.B.S.

October's Featured Nimbee

2009-10-04T04:00:00.002-04:00

The FuN is back!

For October, our Featured Nimbee is

SABRINA BEINLICH!

Thanks, Sabrina, for participating in the fun

as well as inspiring us with your creations!

1. When did you become a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator? 2002

2. What is your CURRENT favorite stamp set? I'm really digging the new hostess set I pre-ordered Kind and Caring Thoughts. I love the fonts and the solid images are great as a backdrop.

3. Would you say you are more of a card stamper, scrapbook stamper, art stamper, or all of these? All

Which is your favorite to spend time doing? I think I enjoy making a card the most because it is quickest and I know that someone will have a smile on their face when they get it in the mail. I do love scrapbooks though...I'm famous for starting them and never finishing them!

4. Can you share with us a color combo you think is absolutely fabulous? Ruby Red, Brocade Blue and Night of Navy AND So Saffron, Riding Hood Red and Basic Grey

5. What is one embellishment you could not live without? Ribbon, can't get enough of it.

6. What is your favorite stamping tool that you could not do with out? Crafters Tool Kit and this broken ruler that I use to measure and rough up edges.

7. When not stamping or scrapbooking what is your favorite past time? If I'm by myself I'm either working out or editing photos. I have a bit of a Body Pump addiction. I love day trips to Chicago, mostly window shopping at the botiques. I enjoy cooking and playing games with the kids when they are with me which is more often than not.

Specialty Questions
1. List accomplishments (convention stage walks, awards, convention/leadership display stamper, etc.) you've achieved with SU!... I was a contest winner, 5yrs with SU!

2. Are you a member of a Design Team outside of being a SU! demo? If so, what company (ies) do you design for? No

3. Have you submitted to any craft magazines? If so, have you been published and with which magazines? I have not been down that road yet. LOL.

4. What is your favorite tool(s) not offered by SU!? Everytime I'm in Michaels I toy with buying the bigger Crop-A-Dial (is it called the big bite or mega bite?) I would love to be able to make a hole in the middle of the paper without having to get out the Crafters Tool Kit and start pounding.

5. Do you frequent any online stamp/scrapbook stores? If so, which ones? Nah, I try to stay loyal to SU! only because it keeps the unnecessary spending to a minimum! I haven't diversified.

Optional questions...
1. Where in the world is the best place you've ever been? I think it's a tie...Norway and Finland because I was with good friends and it was my first trip as a 'grown-up' and The Hotel Del Coronado in San Diego- hands down the most beautiful and is where Some Like It Hot with my girl Marilyn Monroe was filmed. I like the history of that place and would love to go back.

2. What is your favorite kind of snack? Vanilla yogurt with fresh berries and Kashi granola

3. What is your favorite kind food? Fresh ingredients, "home" cooking but without gravy lol

4. Favorite restaurant? Right now I'm having a love affair with boneless wings from Hooters or Buffalo Wild Wings.

5. In what do you "indulge?" I get facials and massages regularly but I guess I don't consider it indulging since I'm really doing it to avoid wrinkles and any future nipping and tucking.

6. Are you married? Yes

7. Do you have children? 2

8. What do you do for a living? teacher

You can visit Sabrina's online gallery at SCS here...
http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/gallery/showgallery.php?cat=500&ppuser=16981
USER NAME supersassysabrina

TAKE THE FuN CHALLENGE THIS WEEK...
Check out Sabrina's creations here or in here SCS gallery. CASE one. Nimbees upload here with reference to the CASEd card and label it FuN1009. Everyone else, leave a comment with a link to your CASEd creation.

And now... be inspired by Sabrina...

NMBS43 Ribbon Challenge

2009-07-23T21:56:00.004-04:00

Here in the Midwest summer definitely means MOSQUITOS! My friend had a Fourth of July party and we were swarmed with the little buggers. No amount of repellent seemed to keep them away. So, as a little joke I've made up this card to send to her. She is having another get together this weekend. Crossing my fingers that the repellent will work this time around.

For the NMBS Challenge #43 I used SU White Organdy Ribbon (retired) and the giant needle from my Crafters Tool Kit to sew the ribbon onto the wings of the mosquito. I first colored the wings in with Summer Sun ink and a Blender Pen. I think it almost makes the little pest cute! I then added some of the super wide Twill Tape because for me that is a different way to use ribbon because I NEVER use the wide twill!

NMBS Challenge #43 Two in One

2009-07-19T10:55:00.008-04:00

My friend, Kara, recently sent me this adorable card.

What she did with the

Pop Up Glue Dot and Cord

absolutely blew me away.

How stinkin' cute is this?!

Well, I couldn't decide which challenge to post...

one using CORD (or ribbon)

one using Pop Up Glue Dots.

So I am offering them BOTH.

Show me your CREATIVE IDEAS

(not just the ordinary ordinary uses)

for CORD (or ribbon)

for POP UP GLUE DOTS.

With the inclusion of cord in our upcoming mini,

this will hopefully get us going for those little goodies!

ANYONE is welcome to be inspired by this challenge!

Please leave a comment here

or on any of the uploads for this challenge

and be sure to include a link so we can admire your work.

If you are a Nimbees member,

please label your projects with the NMBS43.

CASE of Adela .... featured NIMBEE

2009-07-05T18:24:00.002-04:00

I decided to take the challenge and CASE'd Adela's card. You can see the details on my BLOG. Here is my card:

July's Featured Nimbee

2009-06-28T08:42:00.017-04:00

Let the FuN begin!

It's time for another Featured Nimbee

to take the spotlight!

Stamp it up for the extremely talented

Adela Rossol!

You are going to LOVE the creations she has to offer us.

Now you get busy and let Adela inspire you!

CASE one of these fabulous projects or

check out even more papercrafting goodness

on her blog...

http://creationsbyar.blogspot.com/.

Then meet us back here with a post/comment

and a link to your fabulous creation.

Nimbees use the label FuN0709.

1. When did you become a Stampin' Up! Demonstrato? JUNE 2007
2. What is your CURRENT favorite stamp set? EVER AFTER
3. Would you say you are more of a card stamper, scrapbook stamper, art stamper, or all of these? Which is your favorite to spend time doing? I LOVE ANY PAPER CRAFTING -- ESPECIALLY 3D PROJECTS.

4. Can you share with us a color combo you think is absolutely fabulous? ABOUT A MONTH AGO IT WAS ANYTHING PINK AND GREEN, BUT NOW I'M LIKING A LOT OF REDS WITH YELLOWS: RIDING HOOD RED WITH SO SAFFRON; RUBY RED WITH APRICOT;
5. What is one embellishment you could not live without? FLOWERS - ONE OF MY FAVES
6. What is your favorite stamping tool that you could not do with out? THE CUTTING MAT WITH THE MEASUREMENTS ON IT. I ALWAYS USE IT!
7. When not stamping or scrapbooking what is your favorite past time? I LOVE TO TRAVEL!

Specialty questions
1. List accomplishments (convention stage walks, awards, convention/leadership display stamper, etc.) you've achieved with SU!... BEING A HOBBYIST, NONE YET
2. Are you a member of a Design Team outside of being a SU! demo? If so, what company (ies) do you design for? I DESIGN FOR PAPER CRAFT PLANET, HANNA STAMPS AND MOLLY STAMPS. I'M ALSO A MEMBER OF THE CAARDVARKS CHALLENGE TEAM.
3. Have you submitted to any craft magazines? If so, have you been published and with which magazines? I RECENTLY SUBMITTED FOR THE FIRST TIME AND ONE OF MY CARDS WILL BE IN CARDMAKER MAGAZINE, JAN '10 EDITION.
4. What is your favorite tool(s) not offered by SU!? NESTABILITIES AND COPIC MARKERS
5. Do you frequent any online stamp/scrapbook stores? If so, which ones? EMMA'S PAPERIE, CUT @ HOME

Optional questions...

1. Where in the world is the best place you've ever been? SITTING ON THE BALCONY IN AN OVER THE WATER BUNGALOW AT NIGHT IN TAHITI. IT FELT LIKE I WAS SITTING IN THE MIDDLE OF THE OCEAN WITH NOTHING AROUND BUT THE FANTASTICALLY BEAUTIFUL BRIGHT STARS ABOVE!
2. What is your favorite kind of snack? CHOCOLATE, OF COURSE!
3. What is your favorite kind food? ITALIAN, USUALLY
4. Favorite restaurant? CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN
5. In what do you "indulge?" STAYING IN LUXURY RESORTS, IF THAT COUNTS.
6. Are you married? I WILL BE MARRIED FOR 19 YEARS ON AUGUST 19TH
7. Do you have children? I HAVE TWO TEENAGE GIRLS, 17 AND 15
8. What do you do for a living? I'M BLESSED TO BE A STAY-AT-HOME MOTHER AND WIFE.

Thanks again, Adela, for participating!

Your work truly is inspiring!

Happy Sunday Challenge day!

2009-06-14T17:42:00.008-04:00

Ok, let's make this a "Ways to use it" challenge (I just love those!!). I love buttons and brads, I have jars and jars of old buttons in my studio! So your challenge is to use at least 3 buttons and or brads. You can mix and match, use any sizes and combo, etc. your little heart desires.

I LOVE this set, Font of You and I think that Kiwi Kiss has become one of my all time fav colors (bye, Kiwi Kiss). Thanks for playing along, I cannot wait to see what you come up with!

Supplies (all supplies are Stampin' Up!):

Stamps: Font of You

Ink: Riding Hood Red
Paper: Bella Rose DSP, Kiwi Kiss, Basic Black and Very Vanilla cardstocks
Accessories: Kiwi Kiss satin Ribbon, Kiwi Kiss Corduroy Brads, Ticket Punch, dimensionals

FuN FuN FuN

2009-06-08T14:55:00.009-04:00

It's Lisa!

Lisa Henke is our FuN for June!

Congrats Lisa, on being our

Featured Nimbee

this month!

You truly are an inspiration!!!

Check out some of Lisa's

fabulous creations here below

and take our Nimbee's challenge

to CASE (copy) one of them.

Happy Sunday!

2009-05-17T00:01:00.003-04:00

I hope you all are enjoying a wonderful weekend. My challenge to you this week is an easy one... get out your favorite stamp set and create 2 cards/items with it. It seems like we spend so much time showing our customers, etc. all of the new stuff, that sometimes our good ol' favs get a little dusty! Bloomin' Beautiful is my very favorite set (of all time I think, lol)... here is what I made.

This is a card box and 2 regular sized cards. I hope you enjoy this challenge, I can't wait to see what you all create!

Tangii

2009-05-16T18:27:00.006-04:00

One other gift card holder I made

using the Top Note die and Big Shot.

The candle flames are stamped images from Pick a Petal.

I fold CS and set it on the die so the fold was below the dotted line.

The body of the candles are just cut rectangle scraps.

I stamped them using Versamark and the Celebrate stamp.

Run it through the BS and it's all set to go.

I cut a full piece of DSP and then cut it in half.

I was able to make 2 gift card holders.

Attach the DSP with 1/8" Sticky Strip.

You could even fit a Ghiradelli bar in here too, or instead!

Stamp Sets: It's Your Birthday, Pick A Petal, Celebrate Everything

Paper: Bashful Blue, DSP from Winter Mini, Real Red, Brilliant Blue
Ink: Versamark, Real Red, Brilliant Blue, YoYo Yellow marker (draw wick) Large Oval Punch, top Note Die, Gingham red Ribbon, sponge
1/8" Sticky Strip

2009-05-16T13:01:00.004-04:00

I have a fun giftcard holder/scrapbook wallet that I made for a blog hop last week.

This was so fun to make!

There are more info and pictures on my blog for all the measurements.

http://stitchinnstampinonpaper.blogspot.com/

Gift Card Holder Challenge #39

2009-05-04T08:32:00.008-04:00

This time of year seems like

"gift giving central" time.

We have Mother's Day coming up

but then right around the corner is

teacher gifts for end of the school year,

thank you gifts for our veterans or soldiers,

Father's Day and throw on a birthday

here and there... whew!

I love giving gift cards

because there are some super cute

gift card holders

in the paper crafting realm.

My challenge is to see if the

NMBS group can get as many

gift card holders as possible

uploaded to the group site this week.

You can make the one I made here.

Here is my blog tutorial on how...

Dancing with Stamps

show us a completely different

gift card holder.

I can't wait to see what shows up!

Nimbees, upload directly to our great little site.

Everyone else, thanks for visiting!

We appreciate you!

Please feel free to leave a comment

with a link to your gift card creation.

Everyone please reference

NMBS39.

2009-04-21T00:02:00.003-04:00

Here's my card. I CASE'd this card of Becky's.

http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/gallery/photo/1303245?cat=500&ppuser=26764

Stamp: Hero Arts; SU markers;

Paper: Tangerine Tango; Lovely Lilac and non SU DSP.

Enjoy!

Sharon (http://inkiefinger.blogspot.com/)

April's Featured Nimbee and Easter Greetings!

2009-04-12T04:00:00.004-04:00

Please help me congratulate our

FuN

(Featured Nimbee)

Becky Carafa!

Hi, my name is Becky Carafa (beccabatgirl on SCS) and I have been stamping for almost 9 years, ever since I graduated from college. I am a SU demo, but an equal opportunity stamper. I am mostly a hobby demo with a few ordering customers, and I hold monthly classes. My family and I live in NE Ohio, where the winters are long and the summers short. I am honored to have been chosen as the Featured Nimbee!

1. When did you become a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator? almost 3 years ago
2. What is your CURRENT favorite stamp set? Cheep Talk, even though I haven't gotten it inky yet
3. Would you say you are more of a card stamper, scrapbook stamper, art stamper, or all of these? Which is your favorite to spend time doing? definitely cards!
4. Can you share with us a color combo you think is absolutely fabulous?I'm always on the lookout for funky or unexpected combos, but one of my faves is choc/any pink/kiwi/baja plus kraft
5. What is one embellishment you could not live without?hands down - ribbon, though buttons are fast becoming #2
6. What is your favorite stamping tool that you could not do with out?punches - love those things!
7. When not stamping or scrapbooking what is your favorite past time?shopping, reading, spending time with family/friends

Specialty questions
1. List accomplishments (convention stage walks, awards, convention/leadership display stamper, etc.) you've achieved with SU!...ummmm, I've been on stamper's showcase a couple times
2. Are you a member of a Design Team outside of being a SU! demo? If so, what company (ies) do you design for?Limelight Papercrafts, There She Goes clear stamps, Pink Cat Studio
3. Have you submitted to any craft magazines? If so, have you been published and with which magazines?I was published in Take Ten years ago, and last year I was published once in CARDS
4. What is your favorite tool(s) not offered by SU!?nestabilities and copics
5. Do you frequent any online stamp/scrapbook stores? If so, which ones?yep! Limelight Papercrafts, All That Scraps, Ellen Hutson, PTI, Unity, 7kidscollegefund, and anywhere there's a good sale and decent shipping prices, lol!

Optional questions...

1. Where in the world is the best place you've ever been?Simi Valley CA - Reagan's presidential library, and NYC is a close second
2. What is your favorite kind of snack?in the winter - hot chocolate, in the summer - fruit, but I don't turn down candy either!
3. What is your favorite kind food?I like it all!
4. Favorite restaurant? a place downtown Cleveland called "Lola", run by Michael Symon of the Food Network, yummy!
5. In what do you "indulge?" fudge brownies with no frosting or nuts, and in the fall Pumpkin Spice cappucinos from the local gas station
6. Are you married?yes, to Chad for 7-1/2 years
7. Do you have children?Adam is almost 3
8. What do you do for a living?used to teach health and physical education, but stay home now

As Becky said, she goes by beccabatgirl on SCS and please check out her gallery...
http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/gallery/showgallery.php?cat=500&ppuser=26764

Check out her fabulous blog here... Lakeshore Stamper

And here is your FuN Challenge...

CASE one of Becky's samples

either here or from her SCS gallery.

Nimbees can upload directly

with the label FuN0409

Please keep it SU! supplies.

Everyone else, we'd love to see your creativity!

So leave a comment in any of the posts

with a link to your creation.

Be sure to let us know it is your

CASE of Becky's work.

Once again, congrats Becky!

Thank you for inspiring us!

NMBS Challenge #38 RECIPE CARDS

2009-04-05T12:39:00.005-04:00

I LOVE sharing recipes!

And I love when recipes are SHARED with me!

This week's challenge is for you to

create a card and include your fav recipe.

When I make these cards,

I keep the decorating VERY simple

for two reasons...

1. the focal point should be the recipe, and

2. the card needs to fit nicely into a regular photo album.

When someone I know and love gets married,

I like to give them a beautiful photo album

with a few of my hand-made

RECIPE CARDS.

Then throughout the year,

I snailmail new recipe cards for their album to them.

Regular sized recipe cards (index cards)

fit very nicely into these albums as well.

What a great "cookbook," huh?!

Nimbees can upload directly to the

NMBSwaps blog.

Everyone else, please leave a comment

on any post and be sure to link us to your

creation so we can be inspired by YOU.

Please use NMBS38 when you upload

and include YOUR ACTUAL RECIPE in your post.

Here is my recipe...

Creamy Chicken & Noodles
1 pkg (.6oz) Italian Dressing
1 pkg (8oz) egg noodles
2 TBsp butter, softened-not melted
3 C chicken (or 2 bnless, sknless
breasts,) cubed and cooked
1 C whipping cream
1/4 C parmesan cheese
1.1/2 TBsp parsley, chopped

Boil noodles according to pkg. Divide dressing (save 1 TBsp
for another use.) Drain noodles and return to pan. Stir in
butter & toss to coat well. Stir in chicken, cream, cheese,
& parsley. Mix well. Add the 1 TBsp dressing. Mix well.
Cook over med. to med-high heat, tossing to coat evenly
and heated through. Serve immediately.

Options: Add capers and crisped bacon to finished dish.

Inspiration From......

2009-03-29T16:39:00.006-04:00

NMBS Challenge #37 - Be Inspired
Happy Sunday and I am happy to be back and hosting this week's challenge. For this week I want you to find something either around your home or from a store while shopping that you can use for inspiration to create a card.
Here is my sample:

I found the tumblers at Target and immediately thought of the Good Morning Sunshine DSP. I made a card using the DSP as my background and took the colors from that to complete the card. Hope you like it.

Stamps: Trendy Trees
Paper: Chocolate Chip, Good Morning Sunshine DSP, Pink Passion, Very Vanilla
Ink: Chocolate Chip, Pink Passion, Kiwi Kiss
Access: Chocolate Chip Grosgrain Ribbon, Kiwi Kiss Corduroy Buttons, Dimensional Adhesive, Glue Dots

If you are a member of the NMBS group, you can upload your challenge card directly onto the blog. If you are not a member, we encourage you to play along by leaving a comment in this post along with a link to your card so we can find it.

Have a fun time finding inspiration and creating a card. I can't wait to see what you come up with.
~~Barbara

"Hoppy Mother's Day!" Challenge

2009-03-22T17:02:00.007-04:00

Lovin' Tangii's Challenge!

And her example (see below!)

This greeting card box is being featured on

Stampin' Addicts

as the featured tutorial video.

It is VERY EASY to create

and there are so many ways to expand on it.

LOVE that!

Okay, why FROGS for Mother's Day?

My mom likes them... alot.

Hope she likes my box

(filled with goodies, of course.)

The LO of my box was inspired by

Triple the Sketch #49.

Deets will be on my blog...

Dancing with Stamps

Thanks for a great challenge, Tangii!

Sunday Challenge #36

2009-03-22T00:03:00.010-04:00

Today's Challenge...Make a Mother's Day gift type item. This can be a card, an alterable, anything you like! It can be for your Mom or a friend of your's who is a Mom!

Happy Sunday ladies! I am so happy to hostess today's challenge. Today's challenge actually has 2 motivating factors...1. to get me started on thinking about Mother's Day gifts and 2. My customers LOVE making projects (not just cards)... I thought this might be a good idea to help some of us get a class idea or two for April.

I made this stationery set a bit ago and used it for a class, but I will be posting something new for this challenge during the week. I hope you all enjoy this week's challenge, I can't wait to see the brilliant ideas you all come up with! Have a wonderful week.

~Tangii

Toni's Challenge

2009-03-15T17:07:00.003-04:00

Here is my take on Toni's challenge this week. You can read more details about it on my blog. I have used Oval All and the new scallop oval punch to make a "donut" card!

Thanks for looking!

Challenge!

2009-03-15T11:59:00.003-04:00

I'm so honored to be this week's challenge host!

I thought since we are all probably excited about the new occasions mini catty that this weeks challenge would be based on just that!

The challenge is that you MUST use a stamp set from the occasions mini catty,

your card must also be a SQUARE card and last but not least you must use at least one punch and an embellishment!

For my card (4 1/4 x 4 1/4) I used the Oval All stamp set, the wide oval punch and the fabulous new scallop edge oval punch. I also used the new yummy baja breeze corduroy buttons. For my paper I used baja breeze cardstock, and the sweet slumber specialty paper (how awesome is that new textured specialty paper)? Oh, I can't forget the baja striped ribbon. I also used pop dots for the sentiment.

Hope you like it and I can't wait to see what everyone creates!!!

March's Featured Nimbee is Vonda Thomas!

2009-03-08T04:00:00.005-04:00

Each month on our NMBSwaps blog, we have some FuN with our members. The FuN is our Featured Nimbee of the Month. We focus in on one creative member to appreciate and seek inspiration. This month, our FuN is sweet Vonda Thomas! Please leave a comment here in this post for Vonda. Then take part in the challenge to CASE her creative work. Here are the juicey deets on this fab gal...

1. When did you become a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator? May will be 2 years.
2. What is your CURRENT favorite stamp set? Thoughts and Prayers
3. Would you say you are more of a card stamper, scrapbook stamper, art stamper, or all of these? Which is your favorite to spend time doing? I love making cards, altered items and scrapbook pages. I guess the scrapbook pages are my favorite because these will be gifted to my children when they grow up. I also really enjoy doing the challenges on our blog and on splitcoast when I have time.
4. Can you share with us a color combo you think is absolutely fabulous? I am loving the Pacific Point and Kiwi Kiss combo.
5. What is one embellishment you could not live without? I love ribbon!
6. What is your favorite stamping tool that you could not do with out? I could not stamp without my Stamp-a-ma-jig!
7. When not stamping or scrapbooking what is your favorite past time? Spending time with my family and walking. I also volunteer for the USDA food program in our area.

8. List accomplishments (convention stage walks, awards, convention/leadership display stamper, etc.) you've achieved with SU!. 2008 convention display stamper
9. What is your favorite tool(s) not offered by SU!? I love cuttlebug folders.
10. Do you frequent any online stamp/scrapbook stores? If so, which ones? I like High Hopes Stamps and Pink Cat Studio stamps and Nesties!

My favorite snack is anything with dark chocolate. My favorite food is pizza. My favorite restaurant is a local Mexican Restaurant calle La Hacienda. Their shrimp quesadillas are the best.

I forgot to add that I like to read in my spare time and I have read all the Twilight books.

About the only thing I really indulge in is stamping. I am married with four children the oldest is 20 and the youngest is 4. (yea, you read it right four years old)! I work full time as a Dental Assistant. My user name on splitcoast is VondaThomas and here is the link to my gallery: http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/gallery/showgallery.php?cat=500&ppuser=116389

Please join me in saying THANKS and CONGRATS to Vonda!

CASE one of her wonderful creations here

or from her SCS gallery.

Nimbees, when you upload,

be sure to reference MFN09.

Everyone else, please leave a comment here

or on a future post with a link to your CASEd project.

We can't wait to see your creativiy!

Vonda, I am so glad YOU are a part of the NMBS group!

Recycling Challenge . . .

2009-03-07T21:08:00.003-05:00

I finally got around to this week's challenge today. When I read that KellyJean wanted us to recycle I immediately thought of some Starbucks coffee sleeves I have been saving to repurpose. I decided to pair it with the coffee mug image from the Hand Drawn Bundle (Hostess Level 3). I used this week's SCS Sketch Challenge as my inspiration for the layout. I stamped the mugs in Basic Brown and watercolored them with Riding Hood Red, Baja Breeze and Kiwi Kiss inks. The card base is Baja Breeze and the Riding Hood Red and Kiwi Kisspapers are from the Patterns collection. The rub-ons are also from the hostess bundle and I used some Chocolate Chip wide grosgrain ribbon as an accent. This is a very quick and simple card but I like it!

Hat's Off to a Challenge

2009-03-02T14:16:00.007-05:00

Challenge #34....Recycle, Recycle, Recycle
I made this adorable St. Patrick's Day hat from an empty roll of packaging tape. The cardboard circle that held the tape is used as the base. I filled a cello bag with Mint Hershey's Kisses to put in the middle. I got the idea on SCS, way cute don't you think!

Stamps: Think Happy Thoughts, Shamrock (incentive stamp)
Paper: Green Galore, Basic Black, Brushed Gold, Glorious Green, Whisper White
Ink: Glorious Green
Access: Medium Cello Bag, Apple Green Grosgrain Ribbon, Scallop Square Punch, Scallop Circle Punch, 1-1/4" & 1-3/8" Circle Punches

Thanks KellyJean for a fun challenge.

~~Barbara

NMBS Challenge #34

2009-03-02T08:23:00.004-05:00

RECYCLE! RECYCLE! RECYCLE!

That's your challenge for this fabulous first week of March.

Dig into your cabinets.

Empty some contents into a storage container.

And start stampin' and altering!

These containers are beef jerky containers.

I LOVE to alter items!

Better yet, I LOVE giving them as

"just because" gifts.

I used the Pink Flamingo DSP

and the Love You Much stamp set.

(squeezed in some Primas, shhh)

(my Pretties just don't last long enough!)

Be sure to reference the

NMBS#34 Challenge when you upload.

Nimbees can upload directly to the site.

Everyone else, please feel free to

add a link to your creation with a

comment here or on any of the

Nimbees' uploads.

Can't wait to see what you gals can

"drag out" of those cabinets!

Felt Flower Accents . . .

2009-03-01T12:45:00.003-05:00

I just barely got a chance to stamp yesterday. I have been trying to get to this challenge all week, to no avail. I decided to combine it with Beate's Weekend Sketch Challenge (WSC70) which was hosted by Lori this week. I knew I wanted to use the Central Park stamp set and Urban Oasis designer series papers. I had so much fun stamping those images on Kraft cs!!! I added some details with a scalloped edge (inside and out) and by using my Cutter Kit to distress the strip of ds paper. The sentiment is from the Cute and Curly stamp set, punched out with my Curly Label punch. I layered two Baja Breeze felt flowers and adorned them with a Kiwi Kiss corduroy button center. Simple and sleek - I like it!!!

2009-02-28T17:03:00.004-05:00

whew....i made it! i wanted to post this card before the next challenge was posted!!

See, KellyJean and i were talking about how we feel bad that we dont participate in the challenges as much as we would like. So she challenged me to the the next one and she said she would do the challenge also. Needless to say, she won! i didnt get around to doing last weeks challenge. There was no way i was going to go another week without doing the challenge!

Not sure what else this cards needs but i think it maybe needs a sentiment on the outside but i didnt want to stamp on this beautiful paper! Just glad I made time to play along!

I dont use kraft at all so that was also a challenge for me. I actually used the sketch from this weeks SCS card sketch challenge to make this card. What a great challenge to use up some of these flowers!

TFL! Wont you play along? :)

2009-02-25T14:13:00.004-05:00

Got Felt? Challenge

I totally forgot about these felt flowers.

I have a lot of these still in the tin.

I dug out some photo from the far reaches of the closet

and combined our challenge with a scrapbook layout challenge.

I have to add a journaling on the right hand page

but that will have to wait until my hands feel better.

No one will be able to read my writing if i do it now! lol

Got Felt Challenge

2009-02-22T23:29:00.005-05:00

Here is my card for the felt challenge! I just love these felt flowers but always forget about them!! Thanks for the reminder. I used my corner rounder to make the scallops on the circle.

Stamps: Itty Bitty Buds, Cute & Curly
Paper: Baja Breeze, Kraft, Whisper White, Bella DSP
Ink: Kiwi Kiss, Chocolate Chip
Acc: Flower Fusion, Corduroy Button, Sponge Dauber, Pastel Chalks, Corner Rounder, Brad, Curly Label Punch, Texturz Plate

Sharon Maranich
http://inkiefinger.blogspot.com/

Got Felt?

2009-02-22T01:02:00.004-05:00

NMBS Challenge # 33
As I was thinking of what challenge to present for this week, I remembered my little tins of Flower Fusion -- you know, those cutsie little die cut felt flowers? I had forgotten about those great little embellishments. So here's this week's challenge: Use felt on your card.

Here is my sample, which I call, From "Me Me Me" to "You You You"

Stamp: Three Little Words
Paper: Pink Pirouette, Rose Red, Raspberry Tart DSP
Ink: Kiwi Kiss, Rose Red Classic Ink Pad, Rose Red Stampin' Marker
Acc: Flower Fusion, Button Bouquet, Linen Thread, 1" Rose Red Double Stitched Grosgrain Ribbon, Red Hemp, Butterflies Sizzix Die, Sponge, Dimensionals, Mini Glue Dots, Sticky Tape

NMBS Members, please upload your card directly to our blog. If you are not an NMBS member, leave a comment here with a link to your card so we can take a look. When uploading to SCS use keyword: nmbs33.

Let's get those felts out and see what we can create with them!

Simple Piercing

2009-02-20T09:04:00.003-05:00

Not so fierce, my piercing is a bit more on the simple side. This card was also for a SCS sketch challenge. I am LOVIN' the Pink Flamingo DSP. It's kind of loud but it's just so fun and cute!

2009-02-16T17:23:00.005-05:00

Piercing Challenge

Here's my card for this week's challenge.

Nothing wow, just a lot of holes. lol

The SAB ribbon and paper combo was not easy to pierce!

It really needs the Congratulations stamped

in the bottom left corner but that set doesn't arrive until tomorrow

and I won't have time to stamp again until Friday.

So I wanted to get this posted.

Polka Dot Punches stamp set
Paper: Barely Banana, W. White, SAB DSP
Ink: Bashful Blue, Apricot Appeal
Access: SAB Ribbon, SS Brad, Scallop and 13/4" punches

FuN with Piercing . . .

2009-02-16T16:51:00.003-05:00

I actually got a chance to stamp today since there is no school and my hubby has to work. I received my first order from the Spring/Summer Catalog last week and wanted to play with some of my new goodies. I decided to pull out the Sweet Stems stamp set and Tea Party designer series paper to case Toni's adorable cupcake card since she is the Featured Nimbee this month. I also wanted to incorporate this week's piercing challenge. Anyway here is what I came up with - enjoy!

Yummy Piercing

2009-02-15T20:06:00.006-05:00

Here's my attempt at the challenge for this week. The inspiration for this card is from the Sweet Shapes Inspiration Sheet from a while back.

Stamps: Watercolor Joy (wheel), Yummy (SAB)
Paper: Almost Amethyst, Certainly Celery, Pretty in Pink, So Saffron
Ink: Certainly Celery, Pretty in Pink
Accessories: dimensionals, white grosgrain ribbon
Techniques: paper piercing

Thanks for the challenge Barbara!

Piercing Challenge

2009-02-15T19:32:00.005-05:00

Here's my card for this week's challenge. It's a birthday card for a good friend of mine. I did paper piercing around the cupcakes and on the designer paper (although it's hard to see it).

Enjoy!
Sharon Maranich
http://inkiefinger.blogspot.com/

Fierce Piercing

2009-02-15T12:40:00.012-05:00

NMBS Challenge #32
Good Sunday morning. I have a great challenge for you this week. My challenge to you: use paper piercing in a way that you may not have before. Some ideas would be: Enhance or Trace a Design, Create a Border, Intensify a Flourish, or Create Motion (bee trails).

My sample uses paper piercing to create a border around the layers of the main focal image. I also did the Rock n Roll technique to add some darker color to the edges of the butterfly. I popped up the entire image square with dimensional adhesive so you can see through the piercing a bit.

Recipe:
Stamps: Simple Friendship
Paper: Pink Pirouette, Riding Hood Red, Whisper White
Ink: Pretty in Pink, Regal Rose, Riding Hood Red
Access: Regal Rose 5/8" Grosgrain Ribbon, Ruby Red Brads, Dimensional Adhesive
Tools: Paper Piercing Tool & Mat Set

Members of the NMBS group, please upload your card directly to our blog. If you are not a member, we would love to have you participate and then leave a comment in this post with a link to your card so we can take a look. When uploading to SCS use keyword: nmbs32

I can't wait to see what everyone comes up with.

Thanks for stopping by and have a creative day!

2009-02-15T12:31:00.006-05:00

Shaped Card Challenge

Here is my shaped card. A little late.
Sorry it's been busy around here.

I incorporated the Ribbon Challenge into this card.

I gathered the wide ribbon and using glue dots

attached them in rounds for flowers.

The leaves are just 2" pieces folded over to form a point.

To create the texture on the pot, I ran the front only

through the BS, using SU texture plates.

To do this you place your fold line of the card at the end of the plate.

The back of the card hangs out the end going through the BS first.

It then embosses only one side of the card.

I tried to create a shadow under the lip of the post

by placing post its along the edge

and sponging toward the bottom of the pot.

It looks better IRL.

Bella's Bloom Stamp Set

2009-02-10T08:25:00.006-05:00

I'm home with a sick kiddo today so thought I would get my day started by trying a quick challenge! This is something that has been on my mind for awhile so I am glad that I finally tried it! It's a pretty basic card, but I am happy with how it turned out.

Stamps: Polka Dot Punches, Short & Sweet
Cardstock: Whisper White, Pink Pirouette
Ink: Regal Rose Classic
Punches, 1 1/4" circle, scallop circle, eyelet border, full heart
Accessories: Pretty in Pink tafetta ribbon, Flower Fusion Too, Soft Subtles brads, stampin dimensionals

Hope you like it!

Scheli

Shape Challenge

2009-02-08T19:06:00.004-05:00

I love shape cards, thanks for the great challenge. Here's my submission for the shape challenge. I originally wanted to do overalls and then I thought about the cute Stampin Up! template on the demo site. I've always wanted to try this dress, so here it is. I used the origianl template for the base of the card and then cut it down for the jumper. The ruffle underneath is a carosel notecard.I used Ridinghood Red, Kiwi Kiss, and Bella Rose DP. I ran the gingham ribbon through the holes and placed brads at the shoulders for snaps.

My Shape Challenge Card

2009-02-08T15:23:00.006-05:00

OK - I took the challenge and it took me almost all day!! Trying to decide on a shape, cutting it, etc. etc!! But, finally, here is what I came up with. I used a Wordsworth Wild Card template that I have had for years and haven't used in such a long time. Don't exactly what you'd call this shape .... maybe a trapezoid??

This is the card opened.

Recipe:

Stamps: Great Impressions (train & giraffe); SU Define Your Life & All Holidays
Paper: Kraft; Manchester DSP
Ink: Baja Breeze; Black
Access: Dimensional Adhesive; Markers; Wordsworth template
Tools: Paper Snips; Exacto Knife

Sharon Maranich

The SHAPE of Things

2009-02-08T11:07:00.007-05:00

NMBS Challenge #31
Good Sunday morning and I am back with a weekly challenge that will get you in SHAPE.
My challenge for you is to create a shape card. No rectangles or squares allowed, use your imagination and cut the card into a shape and then stamp and embellish as usual.
I used the Simple Birthday Thanks set, stamped the image (close to a folded edge to allow the card to open), cut it out with a small border all around. Then stamp it again on the DSP and cut that out. The icing has brads for sprinkles and is popped up for added dimension. The cherry is stamped on DSP, cut out and mounted then I added Crystal Effects to it. My card opens at the top under the cherry.

Recipe:
Stamps: Simple Birthday Thanks, A Little Birthday Cheer
Paper: Pink Pirouette, Candy Lane DSP, Riding Hood Red
Ink: Chocolate Chip
Access: Sponge Dauber, Brads, Crystal Effects, Dimensional Adhesive
Tools: Paper Snips, Paper Piercing Tool for punching holes

I can't wait to see what everyone creates. If you are a member of the NMBS group, upload your card to our blog. If you are not a member, leave a comment in this post with a link to your card so we can take a look. When uploading to SCS use keyword nmbs31.

Thanks for stopping by and have a great week.
~~Barbara

FuN CASE

2009-02-04T13:16:00.003-05:00

Here is my take on one of Toni's cards. Toni is featured as our "Featured Nimbee" for the month of February. You can see more about her as well as her samples in the post just below this one. Thanks, Toni! It was difficult which card to case because I think they are ALL so great!

I cased the one that has Raspberry Tart DSP. As part of the challenge, I was to change at least two things for my card. I decided to NOT use DSP (well, okay... I used "just a bit." he.) Where Toni has three brads, I simply stamped the three bee images. Toni also used a square for her focal image and I chose a circle.

I colored in my bees and my flower with the Versamarker. My honey pot was colored with Creamy Carmel, shaded with Close to Cocoa, and then blended with the H20 Painter. I used CE on the honey but it's a bit difficult to see. Really cute IRL. I really like this LO!

February's FuN

2009-02-02T12:37:00.017-05:00

The FuN is back! Our Featured Nimbee for February is

Toni Sizemore!

Isn't her smile just the cutest?!

(Sorry, Toni... I hate being called "cute,"

but your smile really is super cute!)

Check out these great samples by Toni!

My particular fav is the cupcake card

but the chickie/heart card runs a close second.

So what's YOUR favorite by Toni?

Pick it and then CASE (copy) it.

Be sure to change at least two things to make it your own.

Then, all Nimbees (that's the name we group members call ourselves) upload here on the blog.

Tell us what you changed

and kindly give Toni credit for your CASE.

Even if you aren't a member of our swap group, we'd still love for you to participate in our FuN Challenge. Just leave a comment to this (or any) post with a link to your CASED work.

Again, be sure to give Toni credit for your CASE.

And thanks for joining us!

Check back soon to find out all about this stampin' diva.

Thanks, Toni!

1. When did you become a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator? 2004
2. What is your CURRENT favorite stamp set? there are a few i like but i would have to say Man's Best Friend or Cheery bird (i love all the cute ones)
3. Would you say you are more of a card stamper, scrapbook stamper, art stamper, or all of these? Which is your favorite to spend time doing? i am a card stamper and scrapbooker.
4. Can you share with us a color combo you think is absolutely fabulous? too many good ones. i love real red with choc, turq, pumpkin. i also love choc and pink together and last but not least i love baja.
5. What is one embellishment you could not live without? ribbon or brads
6. What is your favorite stamping tool that you could not do with out? ink and acrylic blocks?
7. When not stamping or scrapbooking what is your favorite past time? reading, gardening

Toni says she enjoys being a SU! demo for the fun of it. She would really enjoy being on Unity's DT. Her favorite tools not offered by SU! are clear stamps and giga punches. When asked if she frequents any online stamp/scrapbook stores, she laughed and asked "Is this a trick?" She enjoys checking out All That Scraps, Unity Stamp Co., and My Favorite Things.

8. Where in the world is the best place you've ever been? i dont travel so i would say home.
9. What is your favorite kind of snack? i have a sweet tooth so candy or chips
10. What is your favorite kind food? steak, chinese, pizza
11. Favorite Restaurant? rich & charlies (st louis)
12. In what do you "indulge?"
13. Are you married? yes, to hubby, Bennie (11 years)
14. Do you have children? yes, Ben is going to be 10 in march!

15. What do you do for a living? i'm an orthodontic assistant (20 years)

Pacific Polka Dot Ribbon Challenge

2009-01-26T16:34:00.005-05:00

For this week's challenge, I am using Pacific Point, black and white; the ribbon is the stem of the flowers--I guess you would never see a black stem in real life (hopefully not!) but to fit the challenge, that's what I used! Thanks for looking!

Stamps: Polka Dot Punches
Paper: WW, Basic Black, Pacific Point
Ink: Stazon Black, Pacific Point
Acc: Aquapainter, Reinker, 5-Petal Punch, Corner Rounder Punch, Black Grosgrain Ribbon, Dimensionals

LeAnne Pugliese
WeeInklings

Ribbon Challenge

2009-01-25T16:52:00.006-05:00

Here's my card for the challenge! I used the Just Buzzin' By set with Black, White and YoYo Yellow cardstock. I had some black & white patterned ribbon that I thought went great with this challenge. I stamped "thank U" (from True Friend) on my Nestability Tag 2 die. The little bees are popped up.

Enjoy!

Sharon
http://inkiefinger.blogspot.com/

Using Ribbon for ...

2009-01-25T13:10:00.007-05:00

NMBS Challenge #30
Good Sunday morning everyone, this week's challenge is a Ways to Use It Challenge. SU! has so many sizes, styles and colors of ribbon, so I thought it would be great to showcase some of the different ways to use it. The challenge this week is to make a card using Black, White and only one other color cardstock and use ribbon in a different way other than tying a bow or knot.

My sample shows a way of using ribbon for the center of the flowers. This idea came from Tammy, when she presented this at our last downline meeting for a 3 minute demo, but it really doesn't take 3 minutes to make these.

To make the ribbon centers: take a 5" piece of ribbon, tie a knot in the center of the ribbon. Punch a hole in the center of your cut out flower and thread both ends through the hole, once the know is in the center, fold back the ends to form leaves. I used glue dots to secure the flower to my card.
Stamps: Doodle This, Yummy (New SAB)
Paper: Black, White, Baja Breeze
Ink: Black
Access: 5/8" Old Olive Grosgrain Ribbon, Glue Dots, Ticket Corner Punch, 1/8" Hole Punch

I hope everyone will participate, if you are a NMBS member, please upload to our blog. If you are not a member, please leave a comment on this post along with a link to your card so we can take a look. When uploading to SCS please use keyword nmbs30.

Thanks for stopping by and have a great week.

2009-01-24T23:31:00.006-05:00

Scrapling Bookmark

All images and phrases are from Quilt Quips

new in the 2009 SS Catalog.

This scrapling is a bookmark.
I folded a scrap of 1 1/4" x 11" paper in half.
I punched the front edge with the Scallop punch.
I put magnets strips inside to hold it shut on a book page.

This scrapling is just fun. I punched 3/4" squares

of DSP and layered them down the strip.

I used the piercing tool and mat pack to

mimic stitching around the edge.

This scrapling is suppose to resemble Redwork stitching.
I pierced a hole in the center heart, fed linen thread through
and tied a knot. The ends of the linen thread are taped to the back
of the white layer. I used the stamp A Ma Jig to line up
and stamped part of the phrase on this scrapling.

Scraplings Anyone

2009-01-18T16:18:00.018-05:00

NMBS Challenge #29
"Scrapling"...I don't know who came up with this idea or even the word...but they are very cute and a great way to use your leftover scraps of card stock that you cut away when making cards. Typically they measure anywhere from 1-1/4" to 2" wide by 4-1/4" to 5-1/2" long, depending on what scraps you have laying around.

This week my challenge is to make a "Scrapling". I can't wait to see what you design.
Here is my sample (I made this for the Mini VSN "Cast Away Love" Challenge on SCS Friday night). Mine measures 2-1/4" x 5".

Stamps: Love You Much, A Happy Heart
Paper: Kraft, Pink Pirouette, Georgia Peach DSP, Riding Hood Red, Whisper White
Ink: Basic Black, Riding Hood Red
Access: Kraft Taffeta Ribbon, Circle Punches, Big Shot & Pennant Die

If you are a member of the NMBS group upload your challenge directly to our blog. If you are not a member, leave a comment in this post with a link to your card. If you upload to SCS use keyword nmbs29.

Thanks for stopping by. Have a great week.
~~Barbara

2009-01-15T00:58:00.006-05:00

My card for this week's challenge.

Not real happy with this but played around so long,

I just went back to my original layout.

I need a bigger oval punch! lol

Maybe the new Sizzix ovals will work.

Thanks for the inspiration Barbara!

Using Gable Bashful Chocolate

2009-01-11T12:47:00.015-05:00

NMBS Challenge 28...Color Combination Challenge
I love this color combo and use it frequently when I don't know what other colors to use.
This week my challenge for you is to use these colors plus white or vanilla when creating your card:
GABLE GREEN
BASHFUL BLUE
CHOCOLATE CHIP
Here are two samples to get you thinking:
This card was a regional swap card I made, using A Beautiful Thing Stamp Set, and 5/8" Chocolate Chip Grosgrain Ribbon.

For this card, I used Chocolate Chip Rub-Ons for the main images, the stamp set For A Friend (retired Hostess set) and Bashful Blue Striped Grosgrain Ribbon.

Everyone is encouraged to play along. It is so much fun to see what everyone creates from the challenges. If you are a member of the NMBS group, please upload your card directly to the blog. If you are not a member, simply leave a comment in this post, along with a link to your card so we can look at at. If you want to upload your card to SCS use the keyword: nmbs28.

Thanks for stopping by and have a creative day!
~~Barbara

2009-01-10T18:06:00.005-05:00

Yey! I finally get to submit a challenge post again. The image is a little blurred but I'll fix that when I next have the chance. I used the top note for one of my new catty swaps but did not want to post that here before they were mailed out. So I had to wrack my brains out to make a new one. This was a quick and easy card.
Stamps: A Little Something
Paper: Cameo Coral, Kiwi Kiss, Rose Red, Whisper White
Ink: Old Olive craft
Accessories: Top Note Die, SU Big Shot, dimensionals, white taffeta ribbon
Technique/s: Heat embossing

2009-01-05T18:39:00.003-05:00

Here is my Top Note creation for this weeks challenge. It is a gift card holder. I am on a birthday roll this month so I thought this would be very appropriate. I will be posting more of my creations now that I figured out to go through Blogger. LOL

Thanks for a great challenge Barbara!

Ways to Use Top Note Die - Challenge 27

2009-01-04T14:14:00.008-05:00

NMBS Challenge #27.
Good Sunday morning everyone, I have an exciting challenge for you this week.
A Ways to Use It Challenge...show us what you can do with the Top Note Die for the Big Shot.
If you are a NMBS member, you can upload your challenge directly to the blog, if you are not a member, simply leave a comment in this post with a link to your challenge so we can see what you created.
When uploading to SCS, use keyword nmbs27. I can't wait to see what you come up with.

My sample is a Top Note Purse. You can see the complete Tutorial on how to make this on my blog HERE.

Recipe:
Stamps: Love You Much
Paper: Pink Pirouette, Riding Hood Red, Whisper White
Ink: Pretty in Pink, Riding Hood Red
Access: Dimensional Adhesive, Riding Hood Red Striped Grosgrain Ribbon, Sticky Strip
Tools: Top Note Die, Big Shot, Scallop Circle Punch, 1-1/4" Circle Punch

Thanks for stopping by and have a creative day!

Challenge 26

2008-12-29T17:16:00.004-05:00

Here is my submission for Challenge 26: to make thank you cards with a monogram. Unfortunately, AFTER I had stamped & photographed them, I realized I was using a retired alphabet set! Please forgive me! Anyway, these are quite basic--the green DP is from Holiday Treasures, the alphabet is Letterpress. I matched each letter with a scalloped mat and grosgrain ribbon; sentiment is from Fresh Cuts. More details on my blog, Wee Inklings.

Send a Thank You - Challenge 26

2008-12-28T12:32:00.005-05:00

NMBS Challenge #26
Good Sunday Morning everyone, I have a great challenge for you today. I am stamping my Christmas thank you cards and getting them ready to mail and I thought this would make a great challenge.
So this week's challenge is to make a Thank You card using a Monogram on your card. It doesn't have to be for the holiday, it can be for any occasion. I can't wait to see your cards.
All NMBS group members can upload their challenge card to the blog. If you are not a member, please play along, and leave a comment here with a link to your card.

RECIPE:
Stamps: Thank You Kindly, Together Forever, Lovely Letters Alphabet
Paper: Old Olive, Chocolate Chip, Ruby Red, Holiday Treasures DSP, Whisper White
Ink: Old Olive, Chocolate Chip
Access: Old Olive Twill, Dimensional Adhesive
Tools: Scallop Circle Punch

When uploading your card to SCS use keyword nmbs26.

Thanks for stopping by and have a creative day!
~~Barbara

Challenge 23 - Share your Christmas Card

2008-12-25T13:40:00.014-05:00

Here is our family Christmas card that I designed for this year.

See all the details plus the inside of the card on my blog here .

Thanks Kellyjean for this challenge, sorry it took me so long to post. I hope more of the group will post on our blog. It definitely seems to be neglected.

Barbara

NMBS Challenge 25

2008-12-21T12:57:00.010-05:00

Limited Supplies Challenge...
Happy Sunday everyone. Yes, it is time for another challenge. This week I was cleaning and straightening my craft room and putting away all the paper scraps, stamps, inks, etc. that have accumulated on my stamping counter from the past few weeks of crafting and stamping cards as I prepare for Christmas. I made this card for a swap with my downline group last month and found many scraps at the bottom of the basket. Also I had a left over punched sentiment or two and the tiny trees already cut out. So I took all the pieces and made more cards.

That brings me to my challenge for this week. A Limited Supply Challenge to use scraps or leftover pieces to create a card and use only one embellishment. It doesn't have to be Christmas it can be for any occasion. I can't wait to see what you come up with. Members of our group can upload their challenge card directly to the blog. If you are not a member, please leave a comment with a link to your card.

Here is the card I made, using scraps of DSP, and extra punched sentiments and tiny trees that were already to use. I only used ribbon as my embellishment.

RECIPE:
Stamps: Mr. Twigster, Punches Three
Paper: Bashful Blue, Kiwi Kiss, Frosty Day DSP, Whisper White
Ink: Basic Black, Bashful Blue
Accessories: Markers, Bashful Blue Ribbon, Dimensional Adhesive, Aqua Painter

If you upload your card on SCS please use keyword nmbs25.

Thanks for stopping by.
Barbara

Snowmen a Plenty

2008-12-15T12:38:00.015-05:00

Here is a picture of much happier snowmen ready to give. I made these to give to the people I work with and some special friends at the dance studio where I work on Monday nights. I used Kit Kat Candy bars to cover and they came in packs of 6 so I made a total of 18. Wow, I love the way they turned out.

Yesterday I posted the challenge and my daughter said that the snowman looked very sad...so I remade the design and made a happier version with a different medallion on the hat with a sentiment.

Recipe:
Stamps: Best Yet
Paper: Whisper White, Basic Black, Real Red, Frosty Day DSP (nose)
Ink: Real Red
Access: White Gel Pen, Sticky Strip, Glue Dots, Snail Adhesive, Kit Kat Candy Bars
Tools: 1/4", 1/2", 3/4", 1-3/8" Circle Punches, Scallop Circle Punch

Thanks for stopping by.
Have a creative day.

Barbara

N.M.B.S. Challenge #24

2008-12-14T12:40:00.007-05:00

Hi everyone, my name is Barbara Welch, and I am hosting the challenge this week.
I know you thought I had left and was never returning...I didn't leave but I have been so incredibly busy for the past few weeks I just have not been blogging. However, I am hosting the challenges now for our group so I hope you will check in on each Sunday morning for the challenge. You have all week to post your take on the challenge.
Your challenge this week is to create a cover for a candy bar. I can't wait to see what you come up with.
Here is a sneak peek into my busy stamping madness. I am making these adorable little snowman candy bar wrapper that covers a Kit-Kat candy bar. My friend & sideline, Jean, made these for a make & take at our Christmas Party for my downline group. She said she CASEd this from someone on SCS and I do not know the original creator to give credit.

I am going to give these to all my friends at the dance studio where I work one night a week. I have met so many wonderful people through the dance studio; teachers, parents of students and the other staff members I work with.

Remember to upload your challenge to our blog. If you are not a member, add a link to your comment so we can look at it. If you upload to SCS use the keyword NMBS24.

I hope everyone has a wonderful week.
Thanks for stopping by and have a creative day!

Christmas Card Challenge #23

2008-12-10T14:58:00.004-05:00

Isn't Christmas crazy fun?! I know you gals are just as crazy busy as I am and at times can't seem to think straight (let alone STAMP straight, he.) Since we didn't have a challenge post this past Sunday, this challenge will run through the next week (or so.) Barbara, if you are still willing and able to offer us Nimbees and blogging stampers a challenge or two (or how-ever-many, he,) we'd greatly appreciate it. Perhaps you could take Sundays, the 21st and 28th. We'll see if we can gather some of our other talented Nimbees to crank out a bang start for the New Year. Thanks again, Barbara, for offering to begin with even if your schedule might not permit it now.

THIS CHALLENGE isn't really so much of a challenge as it is an opportunity to SHARE. Let's all share our CHRISTMAS CARDS by uploading them here. Please include any recipe details you might feel is helpful to those of us that will want to recreate your card for future purposes. We may not have time to get those last minute Christmas cards created but we can surely start on next year's, he he he...

I used the "speckled background" technique for my clay pot. It can also be called the "Simple Green splatter" technique. Here is what you do...

1. Brayer glossy white card stock. (Multiple colors look oh-s0-fab.)
2. Spritz with Simple Green.
3. Allow to dry and voila!

This is a super easy way to create an amazing look. I used the Five Petal Flower Punch to create my poinsettias.

Here is a little demo tip when it comes to creating Christmas cards... I save all of my retired Christmas samples. When I accumulate enough to use for my very own Christmas cards, I simply add a neutral backing (card foundation) and send them off. I've been a demo for over seven years now and have been able to do this twice so far. NO ONE has ever called me (ever) and said... "Oh, I just have to have the stamp set you used on your Christmas card." For those of you that have friends or family who might say this, you wouldn't want to utilize your retired samples in this way. It's worked for me...thus, my sharing. Merry Christmas!

Nimbees Challenge #22 - Sketch It!

2008-11-25T08:39:00.007-05:00

I absolutely love the layout of this particular card. I challenge you to try it using at least (2) Incolors. The original sketch challenge can be found here: http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/forums/showthread.php?t=308553&highlight=sc155

Recipe
stamp set: eastern blooms, upsy daisy
cardstock: ww, tangerine tango, choc chip, pacific point
ink: riding hood red, kiwi kiss, tangerine tango, pacific point, versamark
accessories: key tag punch, circle punches, scallop edge punch, 1/8" hole punch, choc ribbon, paper piercer

No Reds or Greens Challenge

2008-11-21T10:56:00.003-05:00

Now that's a CHALLENGE! Thanks, Maria, for such a fun one! I love thinking outside the box when it comes to colors. As a child, I would to color the pages of my coloring books with some off-the-way ideas... purple cows, green puppy dogs, orange bananas. He he he. So I really like this challenge. I just wish I had time to stamp more! I have been packing for a weekend stamp retreat... WHOO HOO! My big sis (SCS Secret Sister Game) sent me a card yesterday that I simply HAD to CASE for this challenge! Perfect! And would you believe it arrived on the day of our first snow of the season? How appropriate.

Holiday Card Challenge (no reds nor greens)

2008-11-16T08:52:00.014-05:00

Good Sunday everyone! As we near the holidays, I have seen many creations already that would comply with this challenge so I thought this might not be a hard one to accomplish (in fact, Jane posted one in her previous challenge).

This week's challenge is to make a holiday card that does NOT use the traditional reds or greens (whether that be paper, ink, accessories/embellishments). No other restrictions, you may use any size or shape for your challenge piece.

Stamps: Scandinavian Season (mini), Sincere Salutation
Paper: Not Quite Navy, Whisper White
Ink: Not Quite Navy, Whisper White Craft
Accessories: Bashful Blue Taffeta, White Embossing Powder, stampin' dimensionals, clear rhinestones (non-su)

Stamps: Baroque Motifs
Paper: Bashful Blue, Not Quite Navy, Brushed Silver, Shimmery White
Ink: Bashful Blue, Not Quite Navy, Whisper White Craft
Accessories: Rhinestone Brads (round, ice)

I need to start taking photos instead of scanning my cards. I don't think the scanner shows off the cards too well.

I'm looking forward to seeing your cards!

I Got To It!

2008-11-15T09:21:00.005-05:00

Yes! I took some time yesterday to CASE the talented, Kelly. I loved this card of her's from her SCS gallery. I am short on time, so if you want a few extra details this is also on my blog! Thanks for the inspiration, Kelly. Enjoy the spotlight this month! Have a great weekend everyone and TFL! Hugs, Lisa Henke

TIME TO HAVE SOME "FuN!"

2008-11-10T10:57:00.013-05:00

Our "FuN" or "FEATURED NIMBEE" is sweet little "mommy-to-be," Kelly Smith! Join me in thanking Kelly for being a part of this awesomely (yes, my almost 12 yr old says it's a word) talented group of swappers! Thank you, Kelly!

1. When did you become a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator? - September 2007

2. What is your CURRENT favorite stamp set? - Embrace life

3. Would you say you are more of a card stamper, scrapbook stamper, art stamper, or all of these? - Mostly scrapper and card stamper.
Which is your favorite to spend time doing? - I like both, each in their own way.

4. Can you share with us a color combo you think is absolutely fabulous? - It's probably not a new one for many, but I love Bashful Blue, Night of Navy and Certainly Celery.

5. What is one embellishment you could not live without? - Ribbon

6. What is your favorite stamping tool that you could not do with out? - Stamp-A-Ma-Jig (I am horrible without it!)

7. When not stamping or scrapbooking what is your favorite past time? - Reading and/or gardening

Kelly enjoys using the Basic Grey 12x12 magnetic self healing mat. When she is not shopping with SU!, her fav places to frequent are All That Scraps and Papertrey Ink.

8. Where in the world is the best place you've ever been? - 7 mile beach, Grand Cayman (Honeymoon, so I may be a bit biased towards it)

9. What is your favorite kind of snack? - Really unhealthy stuff, potato chips and chocolate

10. What is your favorite kind food? - Italian

11. Favorite Restaurant? - Olive Garden

12. In what do you 'indulge?' - Crafts - Patterned paper and bling. Life - Spending time with my hubby and puppy.

14. Are you married? - Yes, 6 years

16. Do you have children? - We will be having our first - two - kids in late April/ early May

18. What do you do for a living? - I am a research scientist. I help solve structure of proteins from infectious diseases, which will hopefully someday help find a cure for these diseases.

Whoa! Kelly's job sounds very... well, scientific. he. Thanks for working for such a great cause, Kelly!

Kelly’s SCS username is gadget19. A link to Kelly's blog can be found to the right here on NMBSwaps. Be inspired while you drop by her SCS gallery and leave a sweet comment here...

http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/gallery/showgallery.php?cat=500&ppuser=103395

Our "FuN" Challenge is to CASE one of Kelly's creations found here or one from her own blog or one from her SCS gallery. If you case a creation from somewhere other than here, please be sure to leave us a link to view Kelly's creation as well as yours. YOU MUST CHANGE AT LEAST THREE THINGS FROM Kelly's ORIGINAL. Have fun!

See some of Kelly's favorite creations in our side bar.

Thanks for participating, Kelly! We appreciate YOU (and Crystal... he. Sorry for the typos!)

Challenge #20 - Heat Embossing

2008-11-09T03:05:00.005-05:00

Happy Sunday everyone!

My name is Jane and I will be hosting this week's Challenge. It has been getting rather chilly here and I thought it would be fun to "heat" things up a bit. :) So get out your embossing powders and heat tools. Let's see what you can come up with this week!

The first card I had already made for a workshop and I decided to use my Versamarker and Glassy Glaze Enamel to add a little accent to the stamped images. Here's what I came up with in just a few minutes:

Stamps: Deer Friends (hostess set)
Cardstock: Very Vanilla, Kiwi Kiss, Tangerine Tango, Riding Hood Red, Chocolate Chip,
Ink: Kiwi Kiss, Riding Hood Red, Baja Breeze, Chocolate Chip
Accessories: Corner edge punch, 1-1/4" & 1-3/8" Circle punches, Glassy Glaze Enamel, Stampin' Dimensionals, Snail adhesive

Here's the card I made for this challenge:

I stamped the tree 3 times in Versamark and embossed them all in gold embossing powder. Then I trimmed out a section from 2 of them and layered them onto the bottom tree on my base cardstock.

Stamps: Scandinavian Season
Cardstock: Whisper White, Baja Breeze
Inks: Baja Breeze, Versamark, So Saffron
Accessories: silver brads, Scallop Square punch, Sponge Daubers, Stampin' dimensionals, White 1/4" grosgrain ribbon, Snail adhesive

Now it's your turn! I would love to see your embossing!

Cheers!

Challenge #19

2008-11-09T00:51:00.006-05:00

I finally got some stamping time in tonight after a long week. It feels so good to be able to stamp! :)

I used Whisper White Craft ink pad to "soften" the torn edge along the bottom of the card since SU's cardstock does not have a white core.

This was a fun challenge!

Stamps: Flight of the Butterfly, Upsy Daisy

Cardstock: Baja Breeze, Whisper White, Night of Navy

DSP: Urban Garden

Ink: Baja Breeze, Pacific Point, Whisper White Craft

Accessories: Sponge Daubers, Double Circle punch, Photo Corners, Crystal Effects, Tombow Multi-Purpose Adhesive, Snail Adhesive, Stampin' Dimensionals

TFL!

Blog Challenge #19

2008-11-02T11:45:00.005-05:00

Welcome to the N.M.B.S. Group Blog. It's Sunday and time for another Blog Challenge. My name is Barbara Welch and I am happy to be hosting this week's challenge.

My challenge for you this week is to TEAR IT UP...paper that is! Use paper tearing on your card or project. This is a simple way to add visual interest to your card.

To expose the torn edges of the paper, tear the paper toward you. Most DSP paper is white core and this will create the white edge, as in my sample. SU! cardstock is not white core, so when you tear it you get a tone lighter of the same color, as in the Close to Cocoa circle on my sample

Recipe:
Stamps: Winter Post
Paper: Bashful Blue, Kiwi Kiss, Frosty Day DSP, Whisper White, Close to Cocoa
Ink: Basic Black, Kiwi Kiss
Access: Markers: Bashful Blue, Close to Cocoa, Pumpkin Pie, Gold Brads, Dimensional Adhesive
Tools: 1/16" Hole Punch, Coluzzle

After you complete your card, upload it to our blog for everyone to see. If you upload your card on SCS, please use the Keyword NMBS19.

Thanks for stopping by and have a creative day!

Challenge #18 - Nugget holder and acetate treat holder

2008-11-02T02:04:00.007-05:00

I have a couple of treat holders to share for the holidays.
The first is a nugget holder. Chris Simon has created over 20 different PDF files of templates for different sizes of nugget holders and posted them on SCS for us to use! My nugget holder is "6 short".

Nugget templates by Chris Simon
Stamps: Scandinavian Season, Snow Swirled
Paper: Ski Slope Designer Series Paper, Whisper White cardstock, Chocolate Chip cardstock
Ink: Chocolate Chip, Old Olive, Real Red, VersaMark
Accessories: Gold embossing powder, Embossing Buddy, Powder Pal, heat tool, double circle punch, Whisper White Taffeta ribbon, Paper Snips, snail adhesive, Stampin' Dimensionals, sticky strip tape, mailing labels (1" x 2-5/8"), Hershey Nuggets

The second treat holder is the "2,4,6,8 Acetate Box" that Susie McCormick posted on SCS.

"2,4,6,8" Acetate Box by Susie McCormick
step by step tutorial on my blog
Paper: Ski Slope Designer Series Paper
Accessories: 1/4" Whisper White grosgrain ribbon, Clear Transparency (Office Max), 1/8" circle punch, snail adhesive, glue stick

Thanks, Beth, for a fun challenge!

Gift Giving Challenge #18

2008-10-28T21:52:00.005-04:00

Here is my "Gift Giving Idea" for the challenge this week. I plan to give 6x6 Keepsake Calendars. This will be the next Stamp Camp I offer in November. These little calendars are SO easy to create and SO inexpensive for the wallet (gotta love that at Christmas time!)

I bought my calendars at Wal M. for only $2. These work much better than the ones at the $$ stores because the paper is a much better grade. I trimmed the calendar in 1/2. Then I worked up a One Sheet Wonder pattern to fit all 13 pages of the calendar. Oh, and I spiral bound mine with my Bind All (sigh... in love with this thing.)

Thanks, Beth for a great challenge! C'mon Nimbees, let's here (see) what you have in store for the holidays. Bring it on!

Nimbees Challenge #18-Holiday Gifts

2008-10-26T07:04:00.015-04:00

With the holiday season approaching quickly, I've decided this year to make mostly hand-made gifts. Specifically I'm focusing on card sets for friends and family. Show us what handmade gifts you are planning to make this year! Thanks for checking out our Nimbees blog and feel free to leave comments. If you play along, use the keyword NMBS18 when uploading to SCS so we can see what you've done! Have a great day and happy stampin'! Beth

Carholder template:

http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/forums/showthread.php?t=78988

Recipe:
Stamps: tart and tangy

Paper: bashful blue, old olive, real red, ww, summer picnic dp

Ink: real red, old olive, close to cocoa

Accessories: circle and scallop punches, dazzling diamonds, white gel pen, non-SU! gingham ribbon

Fabulous in Pink!

2008-10-21T07:31:00.005-04:00

Wow! I actually get to submit a challenge. I was working on Christmas workshop projects and thought I'd peek in and see what the challenge this week is and I'm glad I did.

Stamp Set: Fabulous Flowers, Weathered (retired)
Paper: Chocolate Chip, Pretty in Pink, Regal Rose, Whisper White
Colors: Pretty in Pink, Regal Rose, Sage Shadow, So Saffron
Accessories: Silver Brads, 1/4" Chocolate Chip Twill (I wanted to use these up)

Oopsie, I just realized I was supposed to use pink ribbon somewhere......hmm...I might have to make another one.

Thanks for the challenge Barbara :).

Nimbee's Challenge #17

2008-10-20T11:41:00.004-04:00

Wow! It's hard to believe we are already on our 17th challenge! This group is an awesome swap group and I know there are a gazillion of other fabulous stampers out there. So c'mon! Let us know you are out there... leave a sweet comment on this upload or any others you see here and include a link to YOUR CARD inspired by this challenge.

Great challenge, Barbara! It's so great to see women (and people) pull together in the month of October and be so encouraging to one another. I LOVE your pink challenge!

For more inspiration, check out Barbara's blog at Creative Stampin Spot .

On this card, I went "by the book..." sort of. I CASEd from page 39 of the Stampin' Up! Idea Book and Catalog. Obviously I changed things up a bit but the similarities are still there. I LOVE all of the wonderful samples in the IB&C. However, I find myself not CASEing it often. This is going to be my goal for the next several samples I create. I want other stampers to know that CREATING IS SO EASY WHEN YOU COPY. Always be sure to give credit where credit is due if possible.

N.M.B.S. Challenge #17

2008-10-19T11:22:00.008-04:00

Hello everyone and welcome to the N.M.B.S. group blog and our weekly challenge. My name is Barbara Welch and I am so happy to be hosting the challenge this week.
As most of you know, October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. My challenge to you is to make a card that features the color pink. You may use any shade of pink cardstock or DSP. Also use pink ribbon somewhere on your card.
Here is my sample card for you to see.

RECIPE:

Stamps: Always
Paper: Chocolate Chip, Riding Hood Red, Pink Pirouette, Whisper White
Ink: Riding Hood Red, Pink Pirouette
Access: Pink Pirouette Striped Grosgrain Ribbon, Pink Brads, Dew Drops, Dimensional Adhesive, Crystal Effects
Tools: 1/16" Hole Punch, Paper Snips

I can’t wait to see what everyone comes up with. When you complete your card, please upload it here on our blog. If you are not a NMBS member, you can leave a comment on this entry with a link to your card so we can look at it. When uploading your card to SCS please use keywords NMBS17.

Thanks for stopping by and have a creative day!

Holiday Gift Card Holder

2008-10-13T23:58:00.004-04:00

N.M.B.S. Challenge #16
This week's challenge is to make a gift card holder. Thanks Adela for this great challenge.
I made this hinged gift card holder using Holiday Treasures DSP.

RECIPE:
STAMPS: Cute & Curly
PAPER: Holiday Treasures DSP, Old Olive, Whisper White, Chocolate Chip
INK: Ruby Red
ACCESS: 5/8" Old Olive Grosgrain Ribbon, Dimensional Adhesive, Rhinestone Brad, Sticky Strip, Curly Label Punch, 1/8" Hole Punch

Thanks for stopping by and have a creative day.

Nimbee's Challenge #16

2008-10-12T01:02:00.013-04:00

My daughter received a gift card for her birthday from a popular store and it came in a great little holder. That holder inspired me to make this project. At first, I just added ribbon, patterned paper and a little embellishment to it -- very easy and turned out pretty nice. Then, I decided to make my own from scratch. (I have a tutorial on my blog that shows you how to make one.)

So, for this week's challenge, I thought we could make something that would be very useful... make a Christmas gift card holder! Every year I enjoy coming up with different designs for cash and gift card holders, so naturally, this year was no exception. I'd love to see what everyone comes up with, so let's all play!

RECIPE
Stamp: All Holidays
Paper: Whisper White, Ski Slope DSP, Cardboard from any DSP pkg
Ink: Rose Red
Acc: 1-3/8" Square Punch, Kiwi Kiss Satin Ribbon, Felt Fusion Snowflake, Rhinestone Brad

It's My Honor...

2008-10-11T13:05:00.005-04:00

...to CASE the wonderfully talented Crystal!! I am so excited that she is being showcased this month. Crystal is one of my downline, actually she was my first downline. I am so lucky to call her my friend and it happened all because of this wonderful passion we all share called Stamping! She is my favorite enabling buddy-we both are so bad for each other but it is Oh-So-FUN! I love her style and couldn't wait to CASE this page of hers. I can't tell you how many times I have gone back to look at this layout. There is something about that just speaks to me. I really wanted to CASE it exactly like it is, with all the same papers, and embellishments, and even the same title but I just couldn't find the right pictures for it. So I went with my Plan B. The dp is some Cosmo Cricket I had in my stash. I kept the same Kraft background and used the same layout. I loved the three circles down the bottom right side, so I kept that too. Thanks for the inspiration, Crystal. I have a few other cards I want CASE, so I might be back before our next Featured Nimbee is posted. Happy Saturday all! Hugs, Lisa Henke

CASEing Crystal . . .

2008-10-09T17:11:00.004-04:00

How FuN is this? Crystal Birr is the very first Featured Nimbee and I am lovin' the chance to get to know her better. And how about her awesome creations??? I was inspired by Crystal's Upsy Daisy card, particularly the layout which I chose to use on this card. I changed up the colors and stamp set (Always) and added a few extras such as the Build-a-Brad and portion of the sentiment stamped directly onto the Sweet Always deisgner series paper. I also kept the square card size and the brads in the corners of the ds paper panel. It was a FuN card to make! Thanks so much to Crystal for the inspiration and to KellyJean for kicking off this exciting new blog feature!!!

I "Support" the Nimbee blog!

2008-10-08T18:20:00.005-04:00

This month is Breast Cancer awareness month. My "Bosom Buddies" card is made to send to your mom, sister or friend to remind them to get their yearly mammogram. I've been wanting to make these cute cards for a long time.
I couldn't make one without the other, so the matching card says"I'm behind you,100%!"
The template can be found here:http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/gallery/photo/1023754?si=bra%20card

Nimbees Challenge #15

2008-10-05T00:00:00.001-04:00

MAKE ME SMILE! That's your Nimbees Challenge for the week, gals. Better yet, MAKE ME LAUGH! Funny verses and images are where I think SU! lacks. However, I enjoy the challenge of taking what I have and coming up with some really cute or funny cards. For inspiration, I usually pay close attention to other peoples' b-day cards (most always store bought, of course.) When I hear a funny verse, I use it and try to match it with a stamp set I own.

I absolutely LOVE the cute little bear from Under the Stars! The minute I laid eyes on him, I knew he was actually saying "LOVE YOU THIS MUCH." I had to hand write my verse but I am in desperate search to find a stamp with this saying on it.

Stampin' Up!'s Write Me a Memory CD is perfect for creating your own verses or phrases. The card below is one of my all-time favorite cards to make. It comes in especially handy for most of the b-day parties I've been going to lately (40ish +. he he he...) This funny phrase was on one of my FIL's cards from one of his b-day parties. Although the "Surprise" stamp set has been long retired, it goes perfect with this verse, don't you think? The outside reads "Birthdays are like boogers..." inside reads "the more you have, the harder it is to breathe!" he he he...

Be sure to use all SU! supplies, preferably current stamp sets but retired is fine if you have a really hillarious card to share with us. If you are not a Nimbees, you are invited to leave a nice comment along with a link to YOUR creation that was inspired by this challenge. We'd love to be inspired by YOU!

CASE of Crystal, Our Featured Nimbee

2008-10-03T09:53:00.005-04:00

All of Crystal's cards in our side bar are so fantastic (as are the pages, too!) I didn't know which to case first. I love the layout she used with the "tree" card so I went with it. One of the three things I changed were the colors, elimination of embellishments as well as DSP, and I moved the greeting down a bit.

I used the Watercolor Batik technique for my focal images. You can find out all the details on my blog, Dancing with Stamps . I love how the angel has a "ghostly" effect to her caused by the Batik technique. I used the phrase stamp from Miracle of Christmas and only markered "king of all." I added a little "swish" to my K for it to be capitolized as it should be.

Roll on down here with the Nimbees and check out our FuN (Featured Nimbee,) Crystal Birr. Check out her creations to the side and CASE a couple if you like. Leave a sweet comment on an upload you see here and be sure to add a link to the creation you cased. And be sure to take our Nimbee's Challenge found just below Crystal's Feature. Have fun stampin'!

Let the "FuN" Begin!

2008-10-01T18:05:00.003-04:00

Drum roll pa-leeeeeeeeeaaaaase... our very first Featured Nimbee (or "FuN" for short) is none other than the sweetest Crystal Birr!

1. When did you become a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator?
March 2006, I fell in love with the quality of the cardstock and decided if I was going to be buying anyway I might as well get a discount!

2. What is your CURRENT favorite stamp set?
Hmmm just one? Right now I think it is Upsy Daisy, so easy to stamp!

3. Would you say you are more of a card stamper, scrapbook stamper, art stamper, or all of these? I think I stamp more for my cards but I love to scrapbook, I just don’t pull out the stamps very often on my pages. Which is your favorite to spend time doing? Hard to say, if I had to choose one it would be Scrapbooking.

4. Can you share with us a color combo you think is absolutely fabulous? Any pink with chocolate!

5. What is one embellishment you could not live without? Ribbon

6. What is your favorite stamping tool that you could not do with out? Paper piercer and template.

7. When not stamping or scrapbooking what is your favorite past time? Reading and Crocheting

*Crystal has submitted some of her projects for publication and hopes to be in print someday. She enjoys using Copic Markers and her fav Sakura pen. Other than shopping with SU!, she shops with Papertrey Ink and most recently, Paper Pretties.

8. Where in the world is the best place you've ever been? Cancun, The water is so clear and beautiful!

9. What is your favorite kind of snack? Popcorn

10. What is your favorite kind food? Mexican

11. Favorite Restaurant? A Local restaurant, El Coyote. The BEST filet mignon EVER and they have Margarita Monday- ½ price pitchers!! J

12. In what do you "indulge?" See above, LOL

13. Are you married? Yes, 11 years in December

14. Do you have children? Yes, 4 cuties

15. What do you do for a living? SAHM

*Crystal’s SCS username is mom4cutes. Be inspired while you drop by her SCS gallery and leave a sweet comment here... http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/gallery/showgallery.php?cat=500&ppuser=73548

Our Very First "FuN" Challenge is to CASE one of the following Crystal Creations or one from her own blog or one from her SCS gallery. If you case a creation from somewhere other than here, please be sure to leave us a link to view Crystal's Creation as well as yours. YOU MUST CHANGE AT LEAST THREE THINGS FROM CYRSTAL'S ORIGINAL. Have fun!

See some of Cyrstal's favorite creations in our side bar.

Thanks for participating, Cyrstal! We appreciate YOU!

Scallop Flowers

2008-09-29T14:47:00.006-04:00

N.M.B.S. Challenge #15
This week's NMBS blog challenge is hosted by Maggie. She posted a fantastic sketch challenge for us this week. Check out her blog Stamps in Hallways for more great stamping ideas.

Here is the card I created for the challenge. I used the Washington Apple DSP and the coordinating colors of cardstock. I used the scalloped circle punch and my paper snips to create the flowers. Don't you just love these cute flowers?

Recipe:
Stamps: Little Flowers, Best Yet
Paper: Washington Apple DSP, Riding Hood Red, Tangerine Tango, Bashful Blue, Whisper White
Ink: Tangerine Tango, Riding Hood Red
Access: Jumbo Pewter Eyelets, Bashful Blue Grosgrain Ribbon, Dimensional Adhesive
Tools: Crop-A-Dile, 3/4" Circle Punch, Scalloped Circle Punch, Paper Snips

Thanks for stopping by and have a creative day!

A Scary Bear for the Sketch!Challenge #15

2008-09-28T13:32:00.006-04:00

I got some quick stamping in while the boys were finishing lunch. What a great sketch to get us all stamping! I combined it with last weeks Challenge,paper piecing (if you've been on my blog this past week you'll see I've been doing a lot of paper piecing, just not with all SU stuff, that's why I didn't post here until now). While I LOVE Halloween, I truthfully own 1 Halloween set and that retired (Booglie eyes). I could probably order every Halloween set in this catalog and the mini (they really are super cute) but stamping budgets always kick them off my order since they have such limited time usage.
I did a little thinking outside the box and went to my BIG SCARY BEAR from Under the Stars to bring you this BOO card. I paired him with some kiwi and tangerine dsp mounted on black cs. The BOO was cut from the very cool Naturally Serif alpha from Sizzix with the Big Shot! Thanks for looking! Have a wonderful week! Hugs, Lisa Henke

For Your Cardmaking Enjoyment....Challenge #15

2008-09-28T08:00:00.006-04:00

Howdy to all out there in stamping land...here is a sketch challenge to feast your eyes on for this week. As usual, I have no clue how to make the fancy sketches using whatever publishing program others use, so I have a photo of what I drew on a piece of scratch paper and traced it with a Sharpie.....hey, it gets the point across. Maybe by the next time I host a weekly challenge here, I'll have figured it out :) I like this sketch for 2 reasons (1) it's square and has a fun fold on the side rather than the top (2) it gives a chance to use those nifty jumbo eyelets if you have 'em. Can't wait to see what you all come up with! Thanks for stopping by!

Stamps: Upsy Daisy

Ink: Versamark, Not Quite Navy

Paper: Urban Garden DSP, Kiwi Kiss, Not Quite Navy, Baja Breeze, Very Vanilla

Accessories: Vanilla Grosgrain, Jumbo Brass Eyelets, Corner Rounder, Mat Pack & Paper Piercer, Clear EP

Nimbees Challenge #14

2008-09-22T21:29:00.005-04:00

Paper Piecing can be so much fun, especially if you don't like to color things in (like me, he.) That is one reason why this challenge really appeals to me. Thanks to our very own Nimbee, Barbara Welch for this challenge. Check out her amazing creations here...

Creative Stampin Spot .

This is a little 5x7 clear envelope album. I LOVE these albums! They are so fun and easy to make. Plus they make AWESOME GIFTS! I keep the front of the album pretty simple. Not sure if the photo shows it well, but I used the Poppin' Pastels Technique around the focal image.

Challenge #14

2008-09-22T18:12:00.004-04:00

I love paper piecing. Sometimes when I just can't seem to color or if I don't have the right color handy, paper piecing is the way to go! Here's my card for the paper piecing challenge. I paper pieced the tree and attached it with dimensionals. I have all the info on my blog. Thanks for a great challenge!

Paper Piecing Challenge #14

2008-09-21T22:32:00.011-04:00

For the Paper Piecing challenge, I choose One of a Kind. I used the Designer Paper, Print Patterns (Pacific Point). I used my gel pen to add accents along the edge of the card and on the Bashful Blue circle in the middle. The flower is popped up with dimensionals.

I also love to do the Sock Monkey in Paper Piecing. Here's one I did a couple of weeks ago and used the Cheers to You stamp set also. He's so cute!!

Sharon

http://inkiefinger.blogspot.com/

Stitching Challenge #13

2008-09-21T20:10:00.003-04:00

This is for Challenge #13 - stitching. I was planning on doing real stitching on this card for the first time, but ..... ended up having to do faux stitching. I bought one of those little ProvoCraft sewing machines in July and had never even taken it out of the box. So I thought this would be a good time to test it out. Well, every time I tried to stitch with it, the thread broke after 2-3 stitches. After fooling with it for about 30 minutes, I said to heck with it!! I did use the machine to pierce the holes and then just used my white gel pen for the stitches. Much easier!!!

The card base is Baja Breeze with a Pink Pirouette butterfly from Garden Whimsey. I backed the image with Not Quite Navy cardstock and tied a pink ribbon around it. The little "drops" on either side are drops of Crystal Effects colored with Baja Breeze reinker. I made a bunch of the drops a few weeks ago on a little piece of wax paper (clear ones) and can just peel them off when I want to use them. Then I just added a drop of reinker & resealed them with a bit of Crystal Effects.

Sharon
blog me: http://inkiefinger.blogspot.com/

N.M.B.S. Challenge #14

2008-09-21T14:04:00.004-04:00

Challenge #14
Welcome to our blog!! My name is Barbara Welch and I am so excited to be the hostess for today's challenge. My challenge to you is to use paper piecing on your card. It is a great way to add interest to the stamped image. My sample uses Sweet Always DSP. This is a card a created from the last N.M.B.S. swap.

Not sure how to do this? Paper Piecing 101: Stamp your image on the card stock first, then onto your DSP. Cut out the image you stamped to paper piece on the DSP on the outside of the stamped lines so you still see the lines. Apply adhesive to the back of the cut out images and place over the stamped image on your card stock. Complete your card, by coloring in additional images, and adding embellishments.

Stamps: Crazy for Cupcakes
Paper: Sweet Always DSP, Regal Rose, Chocolate Chip, Whisper White
Ink: Basic Brown
Accessories: Barely Banana Brad, Markers: Chocolate Chip, Pretty in Pink, Rose 5/8" Grosgrain Ribbon, Dimensional Adhesive
Tools: Scor-Pal (created scored grid backgound on Chocolate Chip layer), Three for you Punch, 1/16" hole punch, Key Tag Punch, Horizontal Slot Punch, Paper Snips

Everyone is welcome to do the challenge. Have fun with the challenge and upload your cards for us to see. When uploading to SCS please use NMBS14.

Thanks for stopping by and have a creative day.

Stitching-Challenge #13

2008-09-19T17:30:00.005-04:00

I didn't want to be a slacker this week, so I finally got to it with the challenge (after a little push from Kellyjean and Adela). The ever-so-talented Adela put up the challenge for us to stitch on our cards, somewhere, whether it be a little or a lot. I used the new Christmas Cardinal stamp set and after coloring in the bird and branch with re-inkers and a blender pen, I did a little faux stitching around the main panel. I really wanted to use my sewing machine but it was not cooperating with me, so I ditched that idea and went with the old stand by-my paper piercer and a brown marker. I actually think it looks authentic. What do you think? TFL! Have a great weekend!

Hugs, Lisa Henke

Nimbees Challenge #13

2008-09-15T16:39:00.004-04:00

For this week's Nimbee's Challenge, presented by our Adorable Adela, we are to sport the "stitched look." I enjoy sewing on my cards with the real thing but I do not care for the faux look (at least not when I do it.) Soooo... I thought I would give it another go 'round. It's kind-of difficult to see, I think. Anywho, it's there. I used a Creamy Carmel marker to connect my punched holes. The 2" circle behind the scalloped circle was created with the Round Tab Punch.

I really enjoy Adela's inspiration card for the challenge! I almost went with a Christmas card for mine. I really need to get busy on my Christmas cards so I just may have a second submission for this challenge. Be sure to take a look at Adela's card and you can access her blog here... Creations by AR .

Thanks for checking out our Nimbee's blog! Please feel free to comment on what you see and leave a link to cards YOU'VE created inspired by our challenges. We'd love to be inspired by YOU!

Nimbee's Challenge #13

2008-09-15T14:05:00.004-04:00

When I was a little girl, I loved to sew...well, I loved anything that had to do with crafts, period! So, for this week's challenge, I thought I'd incorporate sewing into our project -- whether it be the real thing or faux -- as long as there's a stitch in there somewhere. I decided to make a Christmas card for my challenge because we can never have enough of those with the holiday season right around the corner. I used my sewing machine to stitch the vellum paper over the Christmas tree image. For SCS uploads please use keyword NMBS13. Have fun with this and I can't wait to see everyone's creations!

Nimbee's Challenge #12

2008-09-08T09:47:00.005-04:00

I went a bit further than the Fall Holidays. I am in love with the Holiday Treasures DSP in Stampin' Up!'s new catalog! Isn't this paper just gorgeous?! I am actually hoping it doesn't look TOO holidayish because I want to use it year round! he.

My dear friend, Vonda, hosts our Nimbee's Challenge this week. Be sure to roll down here on this blog to see her challenge upload... what a "hoot!" She asks us to create a fall gift packaging for the challenge.

This bag measures 4x6. It's not the typical lunch bags that can be bought in the local variety stores. You can, however, use this covering technique on regular sized lunch bags. I just think the smaller sizes are so darn cute done up like this. I get my smaller bags at a bulk candy supplier we have in the next town over from us. Talk about a bargain! 500 bags for $8.95!!! Anywho, you can find more details on how to cover the bag on my blog... Dancing with Stamps . Thanks for taking a peak!

And thanks, Vonda, for a great challenge!

N.M.B.S. Challenge #12

2008-09-07T15:57:00.008-04:00

Here is a second entry for the challenge this week. I made these adorable little treats to give everyone at a stamping dinner/shoebox swap event I attended on Friday night. These are my favorite snacks to munch on while stamping!! Everyone loved them.

All the details on this treat bag and a close-up photo of the topper can be found on my blog. I would love for you to buzz on over and check it our here. Leave me a comment on my blog to let me know what you think.

Thanks for stopping by and have a creative day!

N.M.B.S. Challenge #12

2008-09-07T15:42:00.009-04:00

Fall is my favorite season and this challenge seemed like it was just for me. Thanks Vonda for a super challenge this week to make a Fall/October themed single serving goody bag, box, container, whatever!

Here is the what I came up with. A Bag in a Box using Haiku Designer Series Paper.

Stamps: Sweet Serendipity
Paper: Haiku DSP, Old Olive, Tangerine Tango, Whisper White
Ink: Tangerine Tango
Access: Earth Elements Buttons, DMC Floss, Glue Dots, Sticky Strip, Old Olive 5/8" Ribbon
Tools: Scallop Edge Punch, Large and Wide Oval Punches, Rounded Tab Punch, Crop-A-Dile

Buzz on over to my blog for more details!
Thanks for stopping by and have a creative day!

Nimbee's Challenge # 12

2008-09-07T09:34:00.005-04:00

It's that time of the year again, at least for Stampin Up! demos. Fall comes a little early for us. Most of us are planning fall events now. This weeks challenge is to make an October/Fall themed single serving goody bag, box, container or whatever! I knew my daughter 4 and son 12 would both like this one to hand out to friends at school. This cute idea came from sharonstamps. For SCS uploads please use keyword NMBS12. Have fun, and I can't wait to see what you talented ladies come up with.
Vonda

My challenge entry:
No Stamps
No Ink
Paper-Chocolate Chip, Creamy Caramel, Basic Black, Pumpkin Pie, Whisper White
Acessories: 1 1/4" circle punch, 1/2" circle punch, 1/4" circle punch, boho punch for beak, cello bag medium, Reces pieces, Big Shot, Top Note Die

No layers???

2008-08-26T21:13:00.006-04:00

Well, like many of the other Nimbee's I had a little bit of difficulty with Maria's challenge this week to create a card using only one layer. I tried, really I did, but I just had to add that small scallop circle! I did however resist the urge to pop it up on dimensionals like I normally would and that has to count for something, right? I used the colors for this week's color challenge over on SCS - Rose Red, Basic Black, and Kraft. The stamp set is one of my favorites from the new Fall/Winter catalog, Bella Blossoms. I *heart* flowers!!! As always, we would love to have you join us in this week's challenge. Please leave a link to your creation in the comments field. If you upload to SCS please use keyword NMBS11. Thanks for another great challenge, Maria!!!

NIMBEES Challenge # 11

2008-08-26T13:39:00.003-04:00

Here is my card for this weeks challenge. I have to say this was the hardest one yet!! I am such a layer person but on the other hand I like my cards very simple. I wasn't sure what I was going to do and once I had cut the cardstock I realized it was to dark!! But not wanting to waste it I made the card anyway.
Recipe:
Stampset: Eastern blooms, best yet
cardstock: chocolate chip
ink: chocolate chip, whisper white craft
accessories: pink gingham ribbon.
Enjoy!!
Diana

N.M.B.S. Challenge #11

2008-08-25T00:39:00.005-04:00

Here is my card for today's challenge....using one layer to create a card. Well, I tried but it was a true challenge as I love layers.

Stamps: Dreams du Jour
Paper: Night of Navy, So Saffron, Real Red DSP Prints, White
Ink: So Saffron, Night of Navy
Access: Silver Brads, Navy Grosgrain Ribbon, Dimensional Adhesive
Tools: Paper Piercing Tool, 1-3/4" Circle Punch, Big Shot Die Cut Machine, Top Note Die

Thanks for the challenge Maria.

#11 Challenge-No Layers?

2008-08-24T19:42:00.002-04:00

What? No layers? Weeeeelllll, I tried. I really tried. he he he... Our Nimbees challenge comes to us today from my sweet neighbor (really, she lives just a couple of towns over from me and we didn't even know it until we became Nimbees) Maria!

Thanks for the challenge, Maria, especially considering what your family is going through. My card is really FOR YOU. I didn't add any layers to the base but I wanted to rest of it to be as "pretty" as possible to help lift your spirits.

I also worked up this card for the FS challenge on SCS so you will have to go there (if the system will stop kicking me out) and check out my words for you there, k, Maria? Chin up.