Jul 03 2012

And the Designer Rosette Award Goes To…

This past Friday night was our monthly Demonstrator gathering, and I’m excited about our new awards! It’s fun to celebrate the successes within our team, especially when we can celebrate with sweet stamping projects.  I designed these awards using the Designer Rosette Die for the Big Shot (see it online) and featured the International Bizaar Designer Series Paper (see it online).

I’ve made a whole bunch of projects with this fun die recently (check them out on my blog) and I also have a set of tips & tricks for making these rosettes or medallions (see my tip list).

The centers of these rosette awards are cut with the Scallop Circle Die (see it online) and they’re backed with chipboard cut from the same die.

At our meeting, we started by recognizing demonstrators who had reached certain sales volumes, and then had people remain standing as we went up in sales amounts.  When we were down to the top 3, they each shared their sales and got to put the corresponding mini-award onto their name tag for the evening.

Those demonstrators also wrote their name on one of the flag tails on the award.  I’ll bring the awards back to each meeting so that they’ll have their achievements remembered from month to month.

The mini-awards are backed with a clothespin (fancied up with International Bazaar Designer Series Paper), and are created from stacked pieces.  The little rosettes are about 3 inches across.  The big ones are about 12-14″ tall:

We also had a category for the “Top Swap” and demonstrators voted for their favorite of all the cards that were brought for the swap.

It was fun to see everyone excited about the chance to be recognized, and if you look closely at the picture, there’s a lot of laughter to be seen!  We have a great time together.  One new demonstrator in our group sent me an email afterwards and said that she was amazed at what a great time she’d had meeting everyone.

Really, don’t you want to join my stamping family, too? :)   (learn more)  Be sure to let me know if you’re thinking about it, and if you have questions (send me an email).

Happy Stamping!


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Mar 07 2012

Mixed Bunch: The Elegant Elizabeth

Sometimes lots of color just isn’t what I want in a card.  In that case, I like to pull out my monochromatic color schemes (here are a bunch of past samples) and have fun.  If I’m feeling a little wild and crazy, I might add a punch of color, as I did here with this card using the Mixed Bunch stamp set (see it online) and the A La Carte Elizabeth stamp (see it online).  Elizabeth is a great stamp — it’s there under the punched flower, and it helps to anchor the flower to the card.  Visually, that is.

That little red button makes a huge difference on this card.  It’s from the Brights Buttons Assortment (see them online).  The extra burst of color adds an exciting touch to the monochromatic color scheme.

There are several fun tools & stamp sets on this card, too:

  • Mixed Bunch stamp set
  • the matching Blossom Punch (see it online)
  • Wonderfully Worn background (for the little dots — see it online)
  • Adorning Accents Edgelits (for the scallop border — see it online)
  • First Edition Specialty Designer Series Paper (the underneath layer — see it online)

And yes, it’s true that I’m hopelessly addicted to the Mixed Bunch stamp set and the coordinating Blossom Punch.  If you’d like more ideas, here are some on my blog.

Happy Stamping!


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Mar 06 2012

Spring is for the Birds. Elegant Birds.

Here’s another project using the same set of supplies as yesterday’s project, but with a whole different feel to the finished card. The finished card is square, and I’ve added the Elegant Bird die cut (see it online).

I like the bird with a bit of texture or a change in the paper for the wing, just to make it stand out.  Like the little leaves?  Me too!  They’re from the 2 Step Bird Builder Punch (see it online).

Happy Stamping!


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Mar 05 2012

Mixing Up with Mixed Bunch & Blossom Punch

You might have noticed a few favorites if you scan the projects from my blog in the past couple of weeks.  One of my favs is definitely the Mixed Bunch stamp set (from the Occasions Mini Catalog) and its coordinating Blossom Punch (see it online).

Another fav?  The Simply Scored Scoring Tool (see it online)  — you can see the lines I made here on the right edge of the card if you look very carefully.  They’re much easier to see in person.  Speaking of which — there’s a new Diagonal Scoring Plate for the Scoring Tool!  You can check it out online — and watch for my project ideas in the next couple of weeks!

Happy Stamping!


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Feb 29 2012

Mask Technique for Punches

Ever try to punch in a specific part of a card, only to find that the punch has moved or you didn’t center the punch as you expected?  Here is a GREAT punching trick that will help you line up your punches every time.  It’s a great technique for projects like this, where you need your Blossom Punch shape right in the center of each note card layer.

This little note card set and matching Fancy Favor Die gift box are one of the 4 projects from my current Stamps in the Mail Club round! (learn more)

I am in love with these colors!  They remind me of rainbow sherbet, which is my absolute favorite Baskin Robbins flavor…oh, and Daiquiri Ice, YUM.  Until it’s available this summer, I’ll content myself with stamping in Pool Party, Calypso Coral and Peach Parfait.

Mask Technique for Punches:

  1. Punch a piece of sticky note so the punched shape includes a sticky edge
  2. Place this mask over the paper, positioning where you’d like the final hole
  3. Punch directly over the mask, lining punch with shape.  VOILA!

Stamps: You’re My Type, Mixed Bunch;
Ink: Pool Party, Calypso Coral, Peach Parfait;
Paper: Naturals Ivory, Pool Party, Calypso Coral, Peach Parfait, Chocolate Chip, Everyday Enchantment Designer Series Paper (Sale-A-Bration!);
Accessories: Blossom Punch, 3/4″ Circle Punch, 1/2″ Circle Punch, Modern Label Punch, Chocolate Chip Scalloped Polka Dot Ribbon, Fancy Favor Die, Big Shot

Happy Stamping!


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Feb 23 2012

Mixed Bunch: Clean & Simple (keep it simple!)

Sometimes it’s not 4 layers, 3 stamp sets and a handful of rhinestones that make a card.  Sometimes it’s simplicity that makes the difference.  Here’s a clean and simple card that uses the Mixed Bunch stamp set (from the Occasions Mini Catalog, also part of my February Stamps in the Mail Club Kit).

The colors remind me of a bandanna… Poppy Parade & Island Indigo.  The Blossom Punch (see it online) gives a great focal point.  The bottom of the card is scored several times with the Simply Scored Scoring Tool (see it online) to create a nice edged look for the card.

If you’re still craving ribbon & Glimmer Brads, then here’s another version of the same card with a bit more BLING.

I matted the card in Poppy Parade card stock to bring out the stamped colors.  And the ribbon at the bottom is Island Indigo, to match the stamped circles.

Looking for ideas? Check out some other projects on my blog:

Happy Stamping!


To Order Stampin’ Up! Products On-Line 24/7, CLICK HERE!


Feb 15 2012

April Showers Bring May Flowers

Hang on a second… it’s not April yet!  But if you’re planning a baby shower, you might already be working on your invitations.  I wanted to share my design for these invites that my friend Caty will be sending out. (That came out wrong… no, it’s not a shower for ME!)

The colors are from the In Color 2011-2013 Collection, and the little bear stamp is from the Packed for Baby stamp in the Occasions Mini Catalog (see it online).  The shower greeting comes from the Inviting stamp set (see it online).

The pot actually opens on the side and the final invitation fits into a number 10 envelope.

The Mixed Bunch stamp set and the matching Blossom Punch were a perfect way to build a bouquet (see them in my Stamps in the Mail Club).  The Cherry Blossom Embosslit is still available in my Online Clearance Rack.

Other supplies:

Happy Stamping!


To Order Stampin’ Up! Products On-Line 24/7, CLICK HERE!


Jan 31 2012

Get in on the Mixed Bunch fun: Stamps in the Mail Club

It’s that time again! Yup, time to sign up for a new Round of my Stamps in the Mail Club! This Round (#22!) we’ll be featuring the new Mixed Bunch stamp set from the Occasions Mini catalog. Stamps in the Mail Club is the perfect chance to add this set to your collection, AND receive ideas for using it!

Plus during the February/March/April Round, you’ll have a chance to earn free Sale-A-Bration stamp sets with your kits.

So… What is Stamps in the Mail Club?

Delivered right to your doorstep–it’s the stamps, inks and accessories you need to complete these projects. Plus printed directions, exclusive Video Tutorials and pre-cut, pre-embossed card stock, ready-to-stamp! It’s my Stamps in the Mail Club, and you can sign up today! Here are the 4 projects you’ll make with your supplies and your Month 1 Club Kit:

Look at what the Stamps in the Mail Club can do for you!

  • Build your stamping supplies: kit includes $30-35 value in Stampin’ Up! product each month for 3 months in a row, and you get to keep all the coordinating stamps, inks, accessories and embellishments to use in other stamping projects
  • Easy to follow: Pre-printed directions for all 4 projects in a color handout with photos and step-by-step instructions will be sent with the kit each month and necessary supplies are listed at the top of each project so you know exactly what to have at your fingertips.
  • Flexible Kit Contents: build on what you own! Select alternate Stampin’ Up! product each month if you already own a Stampin’ Pad color or accessory item
  • No sorting or struggling: materials to create each project arrive pre-packaged separately for each project
  • Stampin’ Up! exclusive materials: the best products on the market including heavy-weight Designer Paper and cardstock, timeless images, and perfectly coordinated color scheme
  • Learn more each month: the 3-month subscription teaches you how to use what you’ve purchased and presents inspiring ideas on how to make the most of your investment in supplies

Here’s a review from a past Stamps in the Mail Club subscriber:

From Jill F: “[Stamps in the Mail Club] is the BEST club I have been involved with. It is so nice to go to my stamp room, pull out the directions and the cello bag and get busy!! Thanks for offering this club.”

You can subscribe to the 3-month Stamps in the Mail Club for just $45 each month! Click here for details on the kit contents for February, as well as details on the Exclusive Video Tutorials for Stamps in the Mail Club Members and free Sale-A-Bration rewards.

Ready to sign up now?  Need more details?  Click here and use the big “email Meg” button to request your Paypal Invoice!

I look forward to stamping with you by mail!

Happy Stamping!


To Order Stampin’ Up! Products On-Line 24/7, CLICK HERE!


Jan 23 2012

Leadership 2012: San Antonio

Whew!  I feel like I blinked and the days flew past in San Antonio.  Whirlwinds of stamping creativity, business ideas and the opportunity to visit with friends all made for a very busy couple of days.  But I wanted to share some of my favorite moments — and of course, some fabulous stamping inspiration!

The 2nd day of Leadership started out with a general session where we all met together in the main theater.  We were expecting the “state of Stampin’ Up!” report from Scott Nielsen, the CFO of Stampin’ Up!.  But instead of a boring stream of numbers, Scott showed up on stage and changed his sweater and shoes, all while singing a Stampin’ Up! version of the Mister Rodger’s Neighborhood theme song!  TOO funny!  But yes, Scott can definitely sing.  So not only was his presentation fun, but he also had a visit from the Speedy Delivery man (a la Spencer Willis), delivering the My Digital Studio album that Scott had created with the achievements he wanted to share from this past year.  Way to go, Scott!

After visiting Mister Neilsen’s Neighborhood, we had a business class (we get to choose which ones we want to take) then our Advisory Board Reunion Luncheon.  Stampin’ Up! treated us to lunch at the Little Rhein Steakhouse, for a fabulous meal.  There was even a treat for us at the tables — a package of upcoming Designer Series Paper!  I can’t share the paper on my blog, but check out the gorgeous wrapping!

After lunch we had more classes, then a final session.  Our excitement reached the roof when my friend Mary Ellen Stites (fellow LovenStampfuls demonstrator) was picked for a Backstage Pass for the final session.  Mary Ellen got the ‘behind the scenes’ tour, met with Shelli and the other Stampin’ Up! celebrities, and watched the show from behind the curtains.  Talk about a front row seat!  As if that all wasn’t enough, she got extra free stamps, too!

The theme of the whole Leadership Conference this year has been “my way”, since Stampin’ Up! encourages us to take our demonstrator opportunity and put it together ‘our way’.  The executive team presentations followed the same ‘my way’ theme, and Chad Richards, CTO (tech guy) at Stampin’ Up!, shared his love of anything with a motor.  Yup, he drove that Harley Davidson motorcycle right out on stage!

Of course demonstrators know what we like best… FREE stamps!  There was no shortage of great giveaways during Leadership this year, both drawings for special winners, as well as giveaways for everyone.  We even got a special package with the NEW Sale-A-Bration exclusive stamp set Fresh Vintage and the gorgeous Everyday Enchantment Designer Series Paper.

Remember that the Sale-A-Bration special begins TOMORROW, January 24th!  Eek, I can hardly contain my excitement… stay tuned for details tomorrow and a peek at the Sale-A-Bration Mini Catalog, but the short story is that for every $50 you order, you get a free Sale-A-Bration gift… stamp set, Designer Paper, embellishments, etc.  AND there will also be a special on the Demonstrator Starter Kit… $50 off, PLUS free Designer Series Paper for you, all year long.  Like I said…it’s exciting stuff!  Be sure to visit me online tomorrow for details!

Through the whole two days at Leadership (plus a day of registration!), great stamping ideas were shared.  Here are some projects that were displayed with our Make N Take supplies — Blossom Builders Designer Printed Kit (see it online), along with the Mixed Bunch stamp set (see it online).

And a few more…  I loved the way they were displayed by clipping with clothespins to a rope.

Every Stampin’ Up! event… Leadership in January, Convention in July, Regionals throughout the year, incentive trips in the Spring …they are all done to the ‘nth’ degree and give us the chance to be inspired and motivated as demonstrators.  So a huge THANK YOU goes out to Stampin’ Up! for taking such good care of us.  Can’t wait for the next ‘big’ event!

Happy Stamping!


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Jan 19 2012

Y’all Grab Your Boots and Head On Down!

Hello from San Antonio, Texas for the Stampin’ Up! Leadership Conference!  Although we haven’t seen too many pairs of cowboy boots or heard too many Texas accents, we are thoroughly enjoying our visit to San Antonio.

Here are a few highlights of our Registration Day…  First picture is of the Make N Take session tables when we first walked in.  Yes, we get to stamp projects at Stampin’ Up! events, too!!

And not only that…there were GIFTS waiting for us at the tables!  The portfolios match our fun tote bags.  Each of these was signed by Shelli Gardner (thanks Shelli!):

The Make N Take projects were fabulous.  We all agreed that they looked even more beautiful in person than they did in the photos.  There were actually NINE projects included in our Make N Take packets — more than enough to keep us busy stamping for 2.5 hours.

Here are some LovenStampfuls Demonstrators (Mary Ellen, Faye and Betsy) and some of our demonstrator friends pausing for a scrapbook photo moment  :)

And here are two more of the Make N Take samples.

The projects featured the Twitterpated Designer Series Paper (we got a whole package in our kits!) and the Blossom Builders Designer Printed Kit (see it online), along with the Mixed Bunch stamp set (see it online).  There were even some extra samples shared for more ideas.  Here’s one of my favs:

After Make n Takes, we picked up some coffee (gotta keep the energy up for all that stamping!) and headed to the Manager’s Reception for some fabulous hors d’oeuvres and Shirley Temples with cute little umbrellas.  Here are a few of the Managers from our group: Betsy Crider, Mary Ellen Stites, Dixie Finn & myself.

Leadership is a great chance to meet and talk with many of the Stampin’ Up! corporate staff, since the venue is a little bit more intimate than the huge Stampin’ Up! Convention held during July each year.  Here’s Betsy with Rich Jutkins, the president of Stampin’ Up.

After snacks, Stampin’ Up! treated us to a fabulous Chinese acrobat show.  Wow, those were some talented artists.  There were jugglers, gymnasts, and more.  It made my stomach muscles hurt in sympathy to see some of their stunts!  They were really impressive though, and we all enjoyed the show.

And of course afterwards, what’s more fun than FREE stamps?!  Each of us received a stamp set that will appear in the Summer Mini Catalog (due out in April).  Here’s Mary Ellen — doesn’t she look excited to have her set?  Thanks Laura!

All in all, a fun, busy, full day!  And that was just Registration!  We still have two full days of conference to go, so I probably should get at least a little bit of sleep.  I’ll look forward to sharing more with you tomorrow!

Happy Stamping!


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