Manly Man

For as long as I can remember, my aunt has sent the coolest care package and little goodies to different people.  She pays such attention to the littlest details.  She has been ordering my paper purses for the many people she works with and it seems, they've all loved receiving them.  I've included a picture of the latest order, all coordinating but different.  These little cuties are so much fun to create and dress up.  Last week she brought me a new challenge:  a gift for a man.  At the company she is at, there is one lone man.  What can I do for him?  Well a traditional brief case of course!  I know these are all over the internet but I didn't have my laptop handy so I just did my own thing.  The supplies for this are simple:  Chocolate Chip card stock, Hodgepodge Hardware and the white gel pen.  (Paper cutter and hole punch too)  I did decide to add some depth to the briefcase by adding some sponging in Early Espresso to darken the edges and show some "age" to it.  There are 4 mini brads on the bottom, too. There is a little velcro dot so the case can open.  This would be adorable for a gift card or business card holder for a desk!

Thanks for checking in!  It's good to be back creating and posting!

Teacher Appreciation Week Gift Basket

I was asked to put together a basket for Teacher Appreciation Week coming in May.  I pulled lots of goodies together...some Stampin' Up! and a few scraps I had from a school designer paper pack.  Along with the desk set, I have a couple of SU Classic Stamp pads, Teacher's Pet stamp set and a packet of simple thank you cards.  I really love the acrylic frame...it was easy to put together and I'm hoping it will be a good craft fair item as well!  I've done lots of clipboards and the candy jar (I can't get the candy too early or I'll have it eaten before I give it away...) has some of SU's rub-ons and a bit of taffeta ribbon.  Let me know what you think!  I love all of the comments you send along...

Happy Stamping!

Tumbled Tiles...Nature Walk

I just can't figure out what is happening in my stamping world.  Suddenly I am choosing things that are completely surprising me...buying fabric, the Easter Blossoms Stamp Set, sewing...and I even fell in love with the Nature Walk stamp set.  Driving down to Hartford for Regionals last weekend, I did my share of complaining about the stamp set the Stampin' Up! chose to use.  Really not my style and it would just sit in my closet.  Well...I've added a card to my class this afternoon that uses it, I did these tumbled tile coasters and stamped on some fabric.  Who knew?  This vintage look is really growing on me and I enjoy doing a few new techniques I've learned.  I wish there were more time in my week to stamp and create, going to work everyday is a bit rough!

How to:  Tumbled Travertine 4"x4" tiles (Home Depot...9 for $3.97)
Stamp line art image in Black Stazon Ink...I used Nature Walk stamp set
Color in with Poppin' Pastels...I layered a number of colors on and blended with my fingers.  I was looking for a pretty organic look.
Spray with Matte Protective Finish
Adhere felt or cork on the bottom to protect your furniture.

This makes a great craft fair item or gift...They are quick and easy! 
Happy Stamping!