Nothing says Christmas like a Poinsettia right?

I just love the holidays, all the beautiful decorations and sparkle but one of my favorite things to decorate with is Poinsettia's, to me they just say Christmas.  I not only love to use them in my holiday decor I also use them in a lot of my holiday crafting to include cards and tags.  I especially like this card because of that.  I used the new Close to My Heart Flower Market Cartridge to make this Poinsettia.  I did however alter it a little, the one on the cartridge is much more three dimensional (beautiful but hard to use on the front of a card) so I used one of the pieces and simply cut it in different sizes and layered it for a nice affect.  I did shape the flower petals and leaves a little with my flower shaping tool just to give them a little more depth.  Here is the finished project...

I started by making an A2 card base by cutting a piece of craft paper to 5 1/2 x 8 1/2" and then folding it into a 4 1/4 x 5 1/2" card.  I added a piece of the birch bark paper from the Oh Deer paper packet that measures 4 x 5 1/4".  I then put my flower together (in this picture I had put in a bitty sparkle in the center but ended up removing it because it was too small and adding in a 4 mm sparkle instead.  As I said previously I cut the flower from the Close to My Heart Flower Market cartridge.  I cut one set of petals from Fern cardstock that measure 2 1/4", one set of petals from Cranberry cardstock at each 2 1/4", 2" and 1 3/4" (just shape a little bit and stack together).  I stamped Merry Christmas in the top right corner and added a strip of bronze glitter paper that is 1 x 4" and a strip of the star patterned paper from the Oh Deer paper packet that is 3/4 x 4".  

I hope you enjoy this card.  I have listed all the supplies at the bottom of this blog and most can be purchased on my OBA at www.craftwithronnie.ctmh.com or by clicking the shopping cart at the top of this blog.  Happy Crafting!!!

Supply List:  

Papers:  Oh Deer Paper Packet (X7214B) 

Cardstock: Craft (Z1375), Cranberry (1272), Fern (X5777)

Misc:  Clear Sparkles (Z3274)

Merry Christmas Stamp Set (M1148)

(Bronze glitter paper is from my stash but CTMH does have other colors available)

Glittered Reindeer how wonderful!!!

I really love the holidays and one of the things I love most about them is that you get the opportunity to use glitter and bling everywhere and that is something I love to do.  So today I was cleaning my craft room and discovered an old reindeer punch I have not used in ages.  I got to thinking about the Oh Deer paper packet and what I could do with that punch.  Well I had a scrap of silver glitter paper and a piece of gold glitter paper from another project laying on the corner of my work table and that was all it took.  Here is what I came up with...

While blue is not a traditional Christmas color I am really loving this Sea Glass cardstock and the Oh Deer paper packet that use it so beautifully.  For this card I made the base using the Sea Glass cardstock and I just cut it to 4 1/4 x 11" and scored it in half and folded it to make an A2 card base that measures 4 1/4 x 5 1/2".  I cut a piece of the Oh Deer paper to 4 x 5 1/4, added a strip of gold glitter paper that is 1 1/2 x 4" and a strip of Sea Glass that is 1 x 4" and is stamped with Merry Christmas from the Merry Christmas stamp set using Memento ink.  Finally, I punched out a reindeer from the silver glitter paper and used 3-D foam tape to give it dimension.  So simple yet it looks very elegant.  

Below is a list of the supplies I used for this project.  As always most of them can be purchased from my OBA at www.craftwithronnie.ctmh.com or by clicking the shopping cart at the top of this blog.  Happy Crafting!!!!

Supplies Used:

Paper Packet: Oh Deer (X7214B)

Cardstock:  Sea Glass (X5789) , Gold Glitter (Z3238), Silver Glitter (Z2329)

Ink: Black Memento (Z899)

Stamp Set:  Merry Christmas (D1694)

3-D Foam Tape (Z2060)

Misc: Deer punch (you can use any punch or cut something using your cricut, just be creative)

How about a little "City Sidewalks" for Christmas

So I am just starting to play around with the new City Sidewalks paper packet and it is pretty cute.  Here is a picture of it.

So I also decided it would be fun to use it to make my next card and here it is.  This is another of those rather simple cards that I really enjoy making and sharing during the holidays.

This card was very quick and easy.  I started with a pre-cut white card base that is 4 1/4 x 5 1/2".  I stamped the pine trees from the Nature's Wish stamp set (this is a great stamp set for masculine cards including father's day, birthdays, etc.) using the new Willow ink.  I then stamped the sentiment onto a piece of white daisy cardstock that was 2 1/2 x 2 1/2" using Peackock ink (the sentiment is from the Very Merry stamp set).  I mounted that onto a piece of peacock cardstock that measured 2 3/4 x 2 3/4".  The strip on the left is 2 x 5 1/2" and from the City Sidewalks paper packet.

Below is a list of supplies I used to make this card.  They can be purchased from my OBA at www.craftwithronnie.ctmh.com or by clicking the shopping cart at the top of this blog.  As always, happy crafting!!!

Supplies Used:

Cardstock:  White Daisy (1385), Peacock (X5776)

Paper Packet:  City Sidewalks (X7213B)

Ink:  Willow (Z2807) Peacock (Z2849)

Stamp Sets:  Very Merry (D1694), Nature's Wish (D1703) 

Slowed down by Hurricane Matthew but not stopped!!!

Hello all my crafty friends.  I have to tell you I have discovered that while I can dress for church via lantern light I can not craft by it.  LOL.  Well, all is good here in Pinehurst, North Carolina, we did lose power for a few days but that is nothing compared to what so many others have been through.  I decided that I would use today to get back into my craft room and have some fun.  So I am continuing to work with the beautiful Oh Deer paper packet and there is another of my makes.

So this is a pretty straight forward card.  I made a card base using kraft cardstock that is an A-2 (4 1/4 x 5 1/2).  I then cut the white daisy to 4 x 5 1/4" and stamped the little stars using cashmere ink on both corners.  The circles are 2 3/4" (white daisy) and 3 1/4" (sea glass) and this shape can be found on several of the Close to My Heart Cricut cartridges.  I stamped the sentiment with the new Sea Glass ink (I just love this color).  The strips of paper are from the Oh Deer paper packet and cut 1 x 3" and 1 x 3 1/2".  I punched one star out of the gold glitter paper using a punch I have in my craftroom.  

Below is a list of the supplies I used to make this card and as always most of them can be purchased from my OBA at www.craftwithronnie.ctmh.com or by clicking on the shopping cart at the top of this blog.  Happy Crafting!!!

Supplies Used:

Cardstock:  Kraft (Z1375), White Daisy (1385), Sea Glass (X5789) and Gold Glitter (Z3238)

Ink:  Sea Glass (Z2813), Cashmere (Z2785)

Paper Packet:  Oh Deer (X7214B)

Stamp Set: All is Bright (A1190)

Misc:  star punch and glue dots

Snowflakes keep falling!!

I admit it I love these snowflake thin cuts.  I also love anything I can make that sparkles so glitter paper and embossing powder are two of my favorite things.  What did Burl Ives sing??  Silver and Gold, Silver and Gold these are two of my favorite things.  I am really ready to get going on my Christmas crafting.  Christmas is one of my favorite times of the year so it is natural that I love making Christmas paper projects.  

This card once again features the Oh Deer Paper Packet (you are going to be seeing a lot of that paper on my blog because I love, love, love it!!!  This card is another simple one using basic techniques like the use of embossing powder to raise those sentiments up and make them special.  I have also used several of the mini stamps (at $2.95 they are such a great investment).  I also used the Sea Glass Cardstock here again because it is such a perfect match for this paper.  I did put more emphasis on the silver in this card and could have even used the Ranger Silver Super Fine Embossing Powder but I do think the combination of the silver and gold is what makes this work.  

Here are a list of the supplies I used on this card.  They are available on my OBA at www.craftwithronnie.ctmh.com or you can click the shopping button at the top of this blog.  As always, Have a wonderful day and Happy Crafting!!!

Supplies:  

Oh Deer Paper Packet (X7214B)

Silver Glitter Paper (Z3239)

Sea Glass Cardstock (X5789)

Snowflake Thin Cuts (Z4003)

Merry Christmas stamp (M1148)

Ranger Princess Gold Embossing Powder (Z2066)

VersaMark Ink (Z891)

Craft Heater (555)

Oh Deer I couldn't wait

I just could not wait to show case one of the cards I will be teaching during my upcoming Christmas Card Club Workshop (we will be making 4 each of 6 different cards, or maybe 3 each of 8 different cards since there are sooo many that I just want to make, LOL).  

This was another great and simple card.  I used some gold metallic paper from my stash but I think the card would be even more beautiful with some gold glitter paper (I did use the silver glitter paper for the small star which was punched from a punch I have in my stash).  I love the gold, silver and white stars on the Oh Deer paper and it coordinates so perfectly with the new Sea Glass Cardstock.  I was concerned about the snowflake cutting since it was so intricate but the new thin cuts are amazing and cut through it like it was butter.  

Below is a list of the supplies I used on this project (most can be located on my OBA at www.craftwithronnie.ctmh.com  or by clicking the shopping button at the top of this blog)  As always have a wonderful day and Happy Crafting!!!

Supply List - 

Oh Deer Paper Packet (X7214B)

Glitter paper (gold or silver)  silver (Z3239) gold (3238) - I used a gold metallic on this card

White Value Pack Cards and Envelopes (X254)

Snowflake Thin Cut (Z4003)

Mini Joy stamp (M1154)

Sea Glass Cardstock (X5789)  (as you can see I am using a lot of this cardstock this year, love this color)

Black Memento Ink (Z899)

National Card Making Day

Well hello and happy National Card Making Day.  Now I really don't need a day dedicated to card making to give me the excuse to spend the day doing what I love to do but it worked today so I am just going to be happy about that.  Here are two very simple cards I made using this months Stamp of the Month.  Don't forget this $17.95 stamp set can be yours for just $5 with a qualifying $50 purchase during the month of October.  This set is a great way to get started on those Christmas Cards and scrapbook pages we want to get done.

So here is the stamp set.  The star and stocking can be cut using the Close to My Heart Art Philosophy Cartridge (it has retired but many of my customers already own it) or you can cut all of them out by hand (I did this one one project because it was faster and easier than getting out my cricut and it was no problem).

This first card was simple.  I cut a piece of Pacifica Cardstock to 4 x 5 1/4" and stamped the star and sentiment using VersaMark ink and then embossed using the Ranger Princess Gold embossing powder.  I love how the gold pops off this shade of blue.  Very simple yet elegant at the same time.  I mounted the whole thing on a White pre-cut A-2 (4 1/4 x 5 1/2") card base.

For this second card I did the same thing but used the new Sea Glass cardstock (isn't that beautiful) and I changed up the sentiment.  Such simple yet elegant cards, you could even add a nice white or gold ribbon if you wanted.  

Here is a list of supplies I used to make these cards.  As always you can find these supplies and more on my OBA at www.craftwithronnie.ctmh.com or by clicking the shop button at the top of this blog.  Happy Crafting!!!!

Supply List:

White Value Pack of Cards and Envelopes (X254)

VersaMark Ink Pad (Z891)

Ranger Princess Gold Embossing Powder (Z2066)

Craft Heater (to activate the embossing powder) (Z555)

Pacifica Cardstock (X5759) 

Sea Glass Cardstock (X5789)

Yuletide Joy Stamp Set (S1610) (remember it is just $5 with a $50 qualifying purchase)

How about a wreath for every occassion

So this card was inspired by this cute wreath stamp that is new.  I decided I was going to find a way to use it today and here it is.

I really like this wreath and I just stamped it and cut it out by hand (it was really easy just don't cut a straight line, LOL).  I added a sentiment that is from the Sending Smiles stamp set that is one of the three new stamp sets that come free with the new Flower Market Cricut Collection shown here...

As you can see there is one whole set of stamps that are nothing but sentiments, actually there are 28 in total on that one sheet.  Everything from hugs and kisses, sending smiles, lets celebrate, happy wishes on your day, hi there, way to go, and lots more.  

Cut Thistle cardstock to 8 1/2 x 5 1/2" and score and fold to create an A-2 card that is 4 1/4 x 5 1/2", cut a piece to 1/4 x 5 1/4" and a piece to 3 1/4 x 3 1/4", Cut two pieces (your choice) of the Whimsey Fundamentals to 2 x 5 1/2".  Cut White Daisy to 3 x 3" to stamp wreath and sentiment on to.

So once everything was cut I stamped the wreath using Black Memento (my choice of ink when I am going to color with markers), stamped the sentiment into the center using Thistle ink and then colored the leaves in using the Leaf Green ShinHan marker.  I cut it out using my Micro Tip scissors because they are the sharpest scissors I own plus they are small and make it easy to make these kind of cuts.  Then I punched out three flowers using a small punch I have in my stash (there are flowers in the Flower Market cartridge that could be sized to work great for this as well) out of a piece of scrap Thistle cardstock.  I did ink the edges of the flowers and then shaped them using a flower shaping tool.  I added bling to the center of the flowers and added them to the wreath using glue dots (remember uneven numbers look best)  Then assembled the whole card.  This one was pretty easy.  

I have listed all the supplies I used below and as always they and other products you see here can be purchased at www.craftwithronnie.ctmh.com or by clicking on the shopping cart at the top of this blog.  Happy Crafting!!!

Supplies:

Cardstock:  Thistle (X5789) and White Daisy (1385)

Whimsey Fundamentals (Z3255)

Stamps:  Wreath (A1193) and Sentiment was from Sending Smiles stamp set from the Flower Market Cricut cartridge (Z3285 physical cartridge or Z3290 for the Digital cartridge / both come with three stamp sets and a package of cardstock) or you can use the Thinking of You stamp from the So Many Smiles set (C1619)

Ink: Thistle (Z2640) and Black Memento (Z899)

Misc: ShinHan Leaf Green marker (Z2454), Bitty Sparkles (Z1263), Glue Dots (1772) and Micro Tip Scissors (Z534)

Whimsey Fundamentals meet Flower Market

A few days ago I showed everyone some of the beautiful flowers I had made using the new Flower Market Cricut Cartridge Collection from Close to My Heart.  I was especially pleased with how this daisy turned out and wanted to make sure I found the perfect project to use it on.

I think you can catch that I used the new Shimmer brush on it to add some beautiful sparkle to the flower.  It almost reminds me of the morning dew.  Well I decided I wanted to make a card and use this daisy as my focal point, so here is how that worked out.  

Cut: Glacier Cardstock to 8 1/2 x 5" and score and fold to a 4 1/4 x 5 1/2 A-2 size card, cut second piece at 1 x 5 1/2".  Cut Whimsey Fundamentals (you chose the two you want to use) to 2 x 5 1/2" each.  Cut White Daisy 2 1/2 x 3/4" for sentiment and the remainder of the sheet can be used to cut out the Daisy from the Flower Market Cricut Cartridge.  The center of the flower can be cut from a scrap of Canary Cardstock or you could cut it using the White Daisy and ink it or you could use bling (your choice).  The leaf was cut from the cartridge as well from Fern cardstock.  

I used a shaping tool (I found mine at Walmart) and shaped my flower petals and leaf to give them a more realistic look.  I also inked my leaf a little using fern ink just to add some depth.  I then layered the flower using the glue pen.  I did brush the daisy with the Shimmer Brush after I assembled it but before I added it to the card using several glue dots.  Finally I stamped my sentiment and added it.

I have listed all the supplies I used below and as always they and other products you see here can be purchased at www.craftwithronnie.ctmh.com or by clicking on the shopping cart at the top of this blog.  Happy Crafting!!!

Supplies Used:  

Cardstock:  Glacier (X5770), White Daisy (1385), Scrap of Canary (X5772), Fern (X5777 but two sheets of this color does come with the Flower Market Cartridge)

Whimsey Fundamentals (Z3255)

Flower Market Cricut Cartridge and coordinating Sending Smiles stamp set that comes with the cartridge (Z3285 for physical cartridge and Z3290 for the digital cartridge / both include 3 stamp sets and a package of cardstock)

Misc.:  Glacier Ink (Z2641), Fern ink ( Z2850), Glue Pen (Z553), Glue Dots (1772) and Shimmer Brush - Clear (Z3293)

Well Hello Enchantment

Still playing with the new Enchantment Fundamental papers.  I love the vibrant colors of this particular pack and I just seem drawn to it every time I sit down at my craft table.  Love how these colors all work together...

I think I am going to have to make a whole set of these little note cards, some hello, some thinking of you, some happy birthday, some get well, some sympathy, you get the idea, it is a pretty flexible design.  

I started with a pre-made card base that measures 4 1/4 x 5 1/2".  I then added the strip of sapphire with white swiss dots (cut to 1/2" x 5 1/2") and then the piece of the saffron with white swiss dots (cut to 3 x 5 1/2").

I used scrap pieces of White Daisy cardstock and stamped various flowers and leaves from the Shower Flowers stamp set using Eggplant, Fern, Saffron, Poppy and Pomegranate inks (or you can purchase the Enchantment Exclusive Inks mini pigment pad set which has all 10 of the enchantment colors to use).  I cut them out with scissors and laid them out on the card.  I used 3-D foam tape behind some to add interest, I added gold sequins to others to add interest.  I did add three (you always want an odd number) of gold sequins in the upper right corner to help balance the card.  Finally, I stamped the hello sentiment from the A Penned Hello stamp (retiring at the end of this month) using Memento Black ink.

So pretty simple as you can see but it makes a great impact I think.  I will list the supplies used below and you can purchase the products used here and on many of my projects from my OBA at www.craftwithronnie.closetomyheart.com or by clicking on the shopping cart at the top of this blog. Happy Crafting!!!

Supplies:

Paper - Enchantment Fundamentals (Z3254) and White Daisy (1385)

Stamp Sets - Shower Flowers (C1612) and A Penned Hello (M1130)
Inks - Eggplant (Z2487), Fern (Z2850), Saffron (Z2851), Poppy (Z2852) and Pomegranate (Z2852) or you can purchase the Enchantment Exclusive Inks mini pigment pad set which has all 10 of the enchantment colors) and don't forget the Black Memento (Z899)
Misc.: 3-D Foam Tape (Z2060) and Gold Assortment Sequins (Z2012)

Up Up and Away with Enchantment

Today's project used the Enchantment Fundamentals and the Happy For You and Bitty Birthday stamp sets (Bitty Birthday is retiring at the end of the month).  I like the simple look of this card and the fact it is a card that could be given to anyone regardless of age.  I really feel in love with the Happy For You stamp set as it has tons of sentiments which is always great for a cardmaker like myself.

I started with a basic pre-made card base (or you can make your own, cut White Daisy cardstock to 5 1/2 x 8 1/2" and score at 4 1/4" on the 8 1/2" side and fold into an A-2 card base).  I cut the following: a piece of Sapphire cardstock to 4 x 5 1/4", a piece of Pomegranate cardstock to 1 x 2 3/4", a piece of White Daisy cardstock to 7/8 x 2".  I chose two different pieces of the Enchantment Fundamental papers (you could use any two you wanted to and change up the color scheme) I cut one at 3 1/8 x 4 3/4" and the second at 1/2 x 4 3/4".

I stamped the Sentiment from Bitty Birthday (retiring at the end of this month) with Sapphire Ink onto the White Daisy Cardstock.  I then used scrap pieces of White Daisy cardstock and stamped the balloons using Pomegranate and Sapphire inks, when I was done I just cut them out with scissors.  I decided where I wanted them placed and stamped the strings using Memento Black ink.  I adhered some balloons directly to the face of the card and others I added 3-D Foam Tape to lift them up.

Below is a list of all the supplies I used on this project.  As always you can purchase these items and other items used on previous projects from my OBA at www.craftwithronnie.closetomyheart.com or by clicking on the shopping cart at the top of this blog.  Happy Crafting!!!!

Supplies:

Stamp Sets:  Happy For You (C1660) and Bitty Birthday (M1144)

Inks:  Memento Black (Z899), Pomegranate (Z2653) and Sapphire (Z2648)

Paper:  Enchantment Fundamentals (Z3254), White Daisy Cardstock (1385), Sapphire Cardstock (X5775) and Pomegranate cardstock (5780)

Misc.: 3-D Foam Tape (Z2060) and White Value Pack Cards and Envelopes (X254)

All About Gold

So I decided to play around with the new All About Gold Fundamentals.  Here is what I made...

It was a bit hard to get a picture of this card since the light/flash wanted to reflect off all of the gold and the acetate.  It took me several tries but here it is.  I am really impressed with it, I struggled trying to figure out how to incorporate the acetate with gold dots and then I faced the dilemma of how to adhere it (since it is see through) without seeing the adhesive.  

So here is what I did.  I started with a card base from the White Value Pack (you can make one out of the White Daisy cardstock but I find these easy to use and very affordable plus they have an envelope as well) that is an A-2 card size (4 1/4 x 5 1/2").  I cut a piece of Pacifica cardstock to 4 x 5 1/4" and a second piece ot 1 3/4 x 1 3/4".  I then cut a piece of the All About Gold Fundamentals (I picked the one with the little swiss dots but you could use any of them) to 2 1/2 x 3 1/2.  Finally, I cut a piece of White Daisy cardstock to 2 x 2".

I used the Victorian Gratitude Stamp (remember it retires at the end of the month) and stamped the 1 3/4" square piece of Pacifica using VersaMark Ink.  I then embossed it using the Ranger Princess Gold Embossing Powder and my trusty craft heater.  I adhered that piece to the 2" square of White Daisy and added some 3-D Foam tape to the back of it.  Now I put my card together.

I placed the All About Gold fundamental sheet on my Pacifica (a little right of the left side for interest) and then I used Gold Shimmer trim to cover the adhesive so you would not see it through the acetate.  The best part, it not only served that purpose I think it made the card.  Finally, I just added the sentiment and the card was ready to go.  I can see many more of these in my future.

A list of supplies used for this project will be posted below.  As always if you are interested in the products used to make this project and many of my others stop by my OBA at www.craftwithronnie.closetomyheart.com or click on the shopping cart at the top of this blog.  Happy Crafting!!!

Supplies Used:  

Papers:  All About Gold Fundamentals (Z3246), Pacifica (X5759) and White Daisy (1385)

Ink: VersaMark (Z891)

Stamp: Victorian Gratitude (M1131) 

Misc.: 3-D Foam Tape (Z2060), Value Packe White Cards and Envelopes (X254), Gold Shimmer Trim (Z1985), Ranger Princess Gold Embossing Powder (Z2066) and Craft Heater (555)

Introducing the new Flower Market Cricut Cartridge

There are so many new and exciting things in the new Close to My Heart Annual Inspirations I just don't know where to start.  I did receive my new Flower Market Cricut Bundle and I have been playing with it (just touching the potential of this baby).  Here are some of the flowers I made using it...

This brand new Cricut collection features blooms and blossoms for every season of life.  All the designs feature botanical details of some kind from flowers and leaves to branches and wreaths.  Designed to span an entire year's worth of themes and occasions, this collection features shapes for holidays, cardmaking, and everyday scrapbooking.  We know this collection will really grow on you. It includes the cartridge with 700 images that include shapes, layers, banners, boarders, titles and fonts (or the digital version if you choose) three D-Size stamp sets (valued at $17.95 each) and the Adventure Cardstock Combo Pack which includes seven beautiful new colors just introduced in this book (valued at $14.50).  

**NOTE - The digital collection is only available for use with the Cricut Explore or Cricut Explore Air.  The cartridge may be used on the Expressions and older machines (Thank you for sharing this information in the comments Debbi Foley. 

Available with cartridge (Z3285) or as a Digital Collection (Z3290)

Hooked on You meets Rustic Home Fundamentals

I am loving the new product line from Close to My Heart.  As a wife, the mother of two sons, and a sister to a brother and brother-in-law, not to mention my Dad and Father-in-law, I make a bunch of masculine cards and that is sometimes a challenge.  They need to be fresh, classy and exciting but not frilly and sometimes it is difficult to find that balance.  But when I saw the new Hooked on You stamp set I knew I had a winner.  Check this one out...

I am loving the finished product and it was simple as could be.  

Cuts:  Kraft cardstock cut to 8 x 5 1/2" scored at 4" and folded to make card base of 4 x 5 1/2".  Pacifica cardstock cut to 3 3/4 x 5 1/4", Rustic Home Fundamental paper (with a board print) cut to 3 1/2 x 5".  Finally cut a piece of Colonial White cardstock to 3 x 3 3/4" and stamp with the trout and sentiment using the memento ink so it doesn't bleed into the ink or markers.  

After stamping the trout I began to color the areas around it, I used a sponge (I cut ours into quarters because it is easier to work with), I start with the lightest color (here that was the Crystal Blue) and starting off the cardstock (put scrap paper under it) start swirling the color onto the card a little at a time from the outside edges to the inside.  I did this with all three colors (not going in all the way with the second color which was Peacock and then going in less with the final color which was Sapphire) until I got the look I wanted.  

I then colored in the trout using the ShinHan markers and all though you can't see it in the picture I used a shimmer brush to add some shimmer to the trout (makes him look like he is wet and reflecting the light).  All in all I am very pleased with how it turned out.

As always the supplies I used are listed below.  You can purchase them through my OBA at www.craftwithronnie.closetomyheart.com or by clicking on the shopping cart at the top of this blog.  Happy Crafting!!!!

Supplies Used:  

Papers:  Rustic Home Fundamentals (Z3262), Craft cardstock (Z1375), Pacifica cardstock (X5759) and Colonial White cardstock (1388)

Hooked on You stamp set (B1535)

Inks: Black Memento Ink (Z899), Crystal Blue (Z2117), Peacock (Z2649) and Sapphire (Z2648)

ShinHan Markers:  Turquoise Blue (Z2465), Marine Blue (Z2458), Tender Pink (Z2464), Golden Yellow (Z2452), Vivid Green (Z2466), Cerulean Blue (Z2449) and the Colorless Bender (Z2469)

Misc.:  Shimmer Brush (Z3293), Sponge (Z697), button and string were from my stash

Another Florence Wow Card

Just a reminder this paper packet and many of the items I am using to make these projects will be retiring at the end of August so hurry and order yours today so you don't miss out.  So this card is very interesting.  The Close to My Heart paper packs have started coming with one sheet that can be cut down for Picture My Life (Project Life) kind of scrapbooking but in the time honored tradition of being a crafter I decided I was going to do something different with them (I am not alone many of the consultants use them to make cards or journal cards for scrapbook pages).  So here is my use of one of the:

So I picked this cute floral card to play with.  I cut it out and it was a 4" x 6" card so I cut it down to 4" x 5 1/4" and cut the scrap piece to 3/4" x 4".  I cut a piece of white daisy cardstock to 5 1/2" x 8 1/2" then I scored it down the center of the 8 1/2" side and folded it to make a standard A-2 card base that measures 4 1/4 x 5 1/2".  Now I did a little more cutting, next was the poppy cardstock which was cut to 3" x 4 1/2", and then the Florence Paper (I used the blue with diagonal white lines) which I cut to 2 3/4" x 4" and finally I cut a piece of white daisy cardstock to 3" x 2".

I stamped the sentiment onto the white daisy cardstock using poppy ink.  Then I assembled the card. I just layered it as shown and added a flower from the coordinating complements and for the final touch I added a sequin from the Florence Sequins and it turned out super cute.  

I hope you enjoyed this post, I will list the supplies I used below and as always you can purchase them and more on my OBA at www.craftwithronnie.ctmh.com or by clicking the shopping cart at the top of this blog.  Happy Crafting!!! 

(SAVINGS ALERT:  You can purchase the Workshops Your Way Florence Scrapbooking Kit which includes the Florence Paper Packet, the complements, three sheets of White Daisy Cardstock, Rose Gold Foil Tape and the Florence Sequins all for one low price (G1107), it is all you will need for many of the projects I show on these posts).

Supplies:

Florence Paper Packet (X7208B)

Florence Complements (X7208C)

Florence Sequins (Z3213)

Bitty Birthday stamp set (M1144) - available until the end of August only

White Daisy Cardstock (1385) and Poppy Cardstock (X5779)

Poppy Ink (Z2852)

For my Adult Coloring Fans

I know many of us have been bitten by the Adult Coloring bug right?  Why not?  It transports us to a simpler time in our lives, it is relaxing, it is creative, not too much thought or work involved.  Well I have been trying to figure out how to incorporate my love for the coloring in with my love of card making.  Well, let me tell you this stamp set is the perfect solution.  It is called Ornate Blossoms and I have used it in several previous posts because it is really beautiful and easy to work with.  

For this project I started with a card base cut from Poppy cardstock to 5 1/2" x 8 1/2", scored and folded to make a standard A-2 card that is 4 1/4 x 5 1/2" (if you want to save on cardstock you could use one of the pre-made card bases and add a piece of the poppy that is 4 1/4 x 5 1/2").  Next I added the black mat which measures 4 x 5 1/4" and I cut a piece of White Daisy to 3 3/4 x 5".  I used Memento ink (as I have said several times on here I love the crisp result and it doesn't bleed when I color in my stamp) and I randomly stamped all of the stamps from the set (some I just did half on and half off, just remember to put a piece of scrap paper under the cardstock so you don't stamp on your table, yes, I speak from experience, LOL).  Then color in using your favorite coloring tools.  I used the ShinHan markers here and I love how beautiful and vibrant they are (but I think it would also be beautiful colored in with our beautiful watercolor pencils as well).

Remember this is your project so use what makes you the happiest, it may be the same stamp over and over, colored differently or maybe all colored the same.  You could (I am planning to for my daughter in law) make up a bunch of cards and not color them but give them as a gift and let the recipient color them in and send them off).  There are tons of possibilities with this one for sure.

I will list the supplies I used below, they, along with other products are available for purchase on my OBA at www.craftwithronnie.ctmh.com or by clicking the shopping cart at the top of this blog.  As always, Have a great day and Happy Crafting!!!

Supplies Used:
Cardstock:  Poppy (X5779), White Daisy (1385) and Black (1386)
Stamp Set: Ornate Blossoms (D1687)
Misc. ShinHan Markers (I used a bunch of them and you can see what colors you might like on the OBA and decide for yourself) or you can use the watercolor pencils (3505)

More with Florence

So how about this beauty.  I am really pleased with how it came out and the fact that it was super easy to make is even better.  I do want to remind everyone that most of the products being shown here including the Florence Paper Packet, stamp set, thin cuts and sequins are all retiring at the end of August so get yours before they are gone forever.  

So I started with a white daisy base cut to 5 1/2 x 8 1/2" scored at 4 1/4' on the 8 1/2" side and folded to make the standard A-2 card that measures 4 1/4 x 5 1/2" (or you can purchase the pre-made cards and envelopes which is what I often do (White Value Pack X254).  I used a piece of the scrap white daisy and stamped it with the A Bunch of Love stamp set using Memento Black ink (because I don't have issues with it smearing when I use my markers to color my image in).  I also stamped the sentiment best wishes in the center from the same set (it also has thanks a bunch, happy birthday and special friend all of which can be stamped into the center of the banner).  I cut it out using the coordinating thin cuts and colored it in using the ShinHan markers.  

So I used a piece of the pacifica cardstock that I cut to 4 x 5 1/4" which I centered and mounted on the card base.  I then added a piece of the Florence Background and Texture (B&T) paper that was cut to 3 3/4 x 5" and centered and mounted on the pacifica cardstock.  I took my stamped image and using some 3-D foam tape I centered it onto the card.  Finally three (because odd numbers look most appealing) of the Florence Sequins with bitty sparkles in the centers were added.

All in all it is a pretty cute card if I don't say so myself and it was really pretty simple.  I will post the supply list below and as always you can purchase the supplies for this project and many more on my OBA at www.craftwithronnie.ctmh.com or by clicking the shopping cart at the top of this blog.  Happy Crafting!!!!

(SAVINGS ALERT: If you purchase the Workshop Your Way Florence Scrapbooking Kit you will receive the paper packet, complements, cardstock sheets, three sheets of White Daisy cardstock, Rose Gold Foil Tape and the Florence Sequins all for one low price it is G1107)

Supply List:

Florence Paper Packet ( X7208B)

White Daisy Cardstock (1385) and Pacifica Cardstock (X5759)

Florence Sequins (Z3213)

A Bunch of Love Stamp set (C1647) and A Bunch of Love Thin Cuts (Z3251)

Black Memento Ink (Z899)

ShinHan Markers:  Carmine (Z2448), Tender Pink (Z26464), Marine Blue (Z2458), Cerulean Blue (Z2449), Golden Yellow (Z2452) and Vivid Green (Z2466)

Misc.: Bitty Sparkles (Z1263), 3-D Foam Tape (Z2060)

Florence 2 Page Layout

I have to admit I always struggle more with scrapbook pages than with cards.  Maybe it is because they are a larger piece or maybe it is because they  are more permanent so I think they need to be more perfect.  Whatever the reason it is something I do struggle with so I look at the art work of other consultants often for inspiration.  One lady who always inspires me is Christina Eisenhour, her work is always beautiful.  So one of her pages was the inspiration for this one.

I knew I wanted to showcase the paper but I also wanted to use the embellishments and more importantly I wanted to make some of my own embellishments for this project to show you could do that if you were not the sticker kind of crafter.  I wanted to use cardstock as my base so I could stretch my Florence paper packet to the max.  I have to admit I learned a trick from a lady at a crop a few months ago when it comes to layering paper.  (She showed us it saves paper plus it makes the pages less bulky).  

So what I did here was I used white daisy cardstock for my base, I then added a piece of pacifica cardstock that I cut two pieces to 10 1/2 x 10" (now here is the trick she taught me) when I got the first piece cut I cut in 1" down from the top and 1" down from the left side leaving me an L shape that I adhered to the page as shown and then covered with the next color.  I then did the same thing with the second piece only I left the 1" margin on the top and right side this time.  I used the paper I had left over from the cuts to make my photo mats and to cut the 2 strips of peacock used at the bottom to 1/2" x 10 1/4" .  I then cut I piece of honey cardstock to 10 1/4 x 9 3/4" and mounted that on top of the peacock.  I came up 1/2" from the bottom of the page and added my 1/2" x 10 1/4" strip of peacock and then added two of the Zip Strips cut to 10 1/4" (these are the little strips on the tops of each piece of B&T paper in the paper pack, they have the paper pack name and some other stuff on one side but then they have a coordinating design to go with the papers on the other side).  I love to use these zip strips in lots of projects, they always add so much interest.  

So I then added the photo mats as listed (the white daisy represents the picture and states the photo size):

3 x 3 photo is pacifica 3 1/4 x 3 1/4" 

4 x 6 photo is pacifica 4 1/2 x 6 1/2" and cranberry at 4 1/4 x 6 1/4 

4 x 4 photo is pacifica 4 1/4 x 4 1/4" (cut 2), cranberry at 4 1/2 x 4 1/2" (cut 2) 

I also added a piece of white daisy cardstock cut to 3 1/2 x 3 1/2" to use for journaling.  

Here are some more pics of the pages -

Now lets talk about embellishments, as you can see I put a bunch on the page.  Some are from the Complement set that goes with the Florence paper packet and others are ones I made myself.  I used the Ornate Blossoms stamp set and thin cuts and I made them in a couple different ways.  I used VersaMark ink and stamped several onto white daisy cardstock and embossed them using Ranger Princess Gold embossing powder and others I stamped onto kraft paper using the VersaMark ink and embossed using the Ranger White Super Fine embossing powder.  I then colored them in using my ShinHan Markers.  Can you tell which ones I made??

In this picture it is the larger one in the center (although the very center is a small piece from the complement set and the two to the left (red and blue).  

In this picture it is the one in the center with all the colors (because I really do like to color even as an adult).  

So that about does it, the only other thing I did was to add some 3-D foam tape under some of the pieces for a more layered affect and more interest and I also added some of the beautiful Florence sequins to the mix as well.  

I hope you like this project, as I said before I do struggle with scrapbook pages so I once again want to thank Christina Eisenhour for the inspiration.  As always I will include a list of the products used to create this project below and a reminder that are available on my OBA (remember a good many of them will all be retiring at the end of August so hurry and get yours) at www.craftwithronnie.ctmh.com or by clicking the shopping cart at the top of this blog. Have a great day and Happy Crafting!!!!

Supplies Used:  

Savings Alert:  If you purchase the Florence Workshop your Way Scrapbooking Kit it includes the Florence Paper, the complements, white daisy cardstock, the Florence Sequins and the Rose Gold foil tape (which I did not use on this project but it is beautiful) all for one low price.  (G1107) You can also purchase the Adventure combo cardstock package which has 2 sheets of each the pacifica, cranberry and honey along with other colors rather than purchasing large packages of each color. (X5935)

Florence Paper Packet (X7208B) 

Cardstock: White Daisy (1385), Pacifica (X5759), Cranberry (1272), Honey (X5668) and Kraft paper (Z1375)

Misc.: Florence Complements (X7208C), Florence Sequins (Z3213), VersaMark ink (Z891), Ranger Princes Gold embossing powder (Z2066), Ranger White Super Fine embossing powder (Z2068) and 3-D Foam Tape ( Z1151)

Ornate Blossoms stamp set (D1687) and Ornate Blossoms thin cuts (Z3227)

ShinHan markers: Carmine (Z2448), Cerulean Blue (Z2449) and Leaf Green (Z2454)

Another Florence Card

So here is card #3, (tomorrow I hope to post a couple scrapbook pages using this amazing paper).  I am really enjoying this paper and the flexibility it gives me in designing.

Now this little card is super flexible and super easy.  I started with a pre-made card base (which I often do because it is easy, fast and economical).  I added the two strips of diagonal colors you see here (guess what that is what we consultants call the Zip Strip).  The Zip Strip is an added bonus you recieve with your papers.  Each of the B&T (background and texture or papers with a printed design) have one of these.  On one side it has the name of the paper packet and some other information but on one side it has a cute design that is 1/2" x 12" and works great as an embellishment on scrapbook pages or cards.  I cut this one off the paper and then cut two pieces 4 1/4" long to use on my card.  I cut the blue piece of patterned paper to 4 1/4 x 4" and centered it on the card base, I then added one of the zip strip pieces to the top and bottom of that leaving a 1/4" white reveal on both the top and bottom.  

Next I used the Bunch of Love stamp set and stamped this design (I use Memento Black for this since it doesn't smear when I color things in with the markers) which I then colored in using ShinHan markers and cut out using the coordinating Bunch of Love Thin Cuts.  I used 3-D foam tape and popped it up in the center of the card and added a red sequin with a bitty gem in the center down on the lower right corner.

I want to say here that this stamp and thin cut set are pretty neat because they have two different bouquets and four different sentiments (happy birthday, best wishes, special friend and thanks a bunch) which can be put into the center of either of the bouquets ( I used the special friend one on mine).  It also has a sentiment for the inside of the card that says "THE BEST THING ABOUT THIS CARD IS THE PERSON HOLDING IT" and I just love that.  

Below is a list of the supplies I used to make this card.  These supplies and more can be purchased on my OBA at www.craftwithronnie.ctmh.com or by clicking the shopping cart at the top of this blog.  I hope you enjoyed this card and as always Happy Crafting!!!  

Supplies Used:

White cards and envelopes Value Pack (X254)

Florence Paper Packet (X7208B)

Bunch of Love Stamp Set (C1647) and Bunch of Love Thin Cuts (Z3251)

Memento Black Ink (Z899)

Florence Sequins (Z3213) and Bitty Sparkles (Z1263)

ShinHan Markers:  Cherry Pink (Z2450), Carmine (Z2448), Vivid Green (Z2466), Golden Yellow (Z2452), Marine Blue (Z2458) and Turquoise Blue (Z2465)

More from Florence

As I promised I have another adorable card made with the Florence paper packet (this may be my all time favorite, I know I say that a lot, LOL).

This card is even more brilliant in person.  Best part, it was easy to make and it included something that I find relaxing and very popular right now and that is some adult coloring.

So I started with the stamp set Ornate Blossoms and stamped the design using VersaMark ink and then used the Ranger Princess Gold Embossing powder and heat set it.  The gold really pops and it also believe it or not helps you stay inside the lines when you are coloring.  I used the coordinating thin cut dies and cut the design out.  I colored it using the ShinHan makers which have some amazing brilliant colors and are some of the smoothest markers I have ever used.  

So I started with a card base made from Peacock cardstock which was cut to 5 1/2" x 8 1/2" and scored and folded in half to make the card an A-2 size of 4 1/4 x 5 1/2".  I added a piece of the Florence paper packet that was cut to 4 x 5 1/4".  I did add a piece of gold shimmer trim at the center before securing the red designed paper to the cardstock card (for a finished look I just cut it a hair longer than needed and tucked the ends under the paper before attaching to the base).  I added three sequins with three bitty bling centers on the bottom right.  Then I colored and centered my main element from the Ornate Blossoms on the card and secured it with 3-D foam tape just to add some further dimension.  This card would be perfect for any occasion and it is bright and fun.  

I have listed all the supplies I used on this card below.  As always they can be found on my OBA at www.craftwithronnie.ctmh.com or by clicking the shopping cart at the top of this blog.  As always I hope you enjoyed this post and Happy Crafting!!!

Supplies:

Paper:  Florence Paper Packet (X7208B) and Peacock Cardstock (X5776)

Stamp and Die Sets: Ornate Blossoms Stamp Set (D1687) and Ornate Blossoms Thin Cuts (Z3227)

Ink: VersaMark Ink Pad (Z891)

Embossing Powder: Ranger Princess Gold (Z2066)

ShinHan Markers:  Carmine (Z2448), Golden Yellow (Z2452), Leaf Green (Z2454), 

and Marine Blue (Z2458)

Embellishments: Gold Shimmer Trim (Z1985), Florence Sequins (Z3213) and 

Bitty Sparkles (Z1263)

Introducing Florence isn't she beautiful?

First I want to apologize for being away from the blog for so long.  I have some issues with arthritis and once in a while it flares up really bad.  This time it was in my back for over a week (some days I feared I would die and other days I feared I would not, LOL).  It is doing a little better so I am going to take it slow and try not to irritate it by spending too much time on the computer or crafting (I know what a punishment for me).  But enough of that.

As many of you know Close to My Heart features a paper packet each month and encourages us consultants to use it and post on our social media projects using that paper pack.  Well this months was called Magical.  Now while I like the paper it is very Disney inspired and I have only been to Disneyland one time and never to Disney World.  Since my sons are grown and I don't yet have Grandchildren I figure it is someplace I won't be for some time.  I just couldn't figure out a group of projects to use it on (I have friends that are using it like crazy because they are Disney addicts and yes, that would be you Susie, LOL).  It is available, along with lots of complements and complimentary stamp sets on my OBA (it is item #X7209B), and here is what it looks like (you can see it better on my site at www.craftwithronnie.ctmh.com ) ...

So since I was down so much of the month I have decided to move on to next months featured paper (yeah, I get to do more with it and I am thrilled because this may be one of my most favorite paper packets of all times), I am really fighting the urge to hoard it.  You can see why I love this paper right?  It is super versatile and I will be showing you some great ways to use it over the next few weeks.  I do want to point out though that both these paper packets will be retiring on August 30th and are available only as supplies last, so don't miss out.  If you want either of them you should order them before they sell out or retire.  So here is the first thing I made with this paper...

I thought this particular paper was gorgeous and I loved the coordinating stamp set (and the fact that it had a die cut set as well so I didn't have to fussy cut these just made them more appealing).  So here is how it was made.  I started with a pre-made white A-2 card base (I buy these in bulk since I use so many of them and I find it a very affordable way to make cards).  I added a piece of the Florence paper (I love this one with all the ornate blossoms so lightly printed on it in all these beautiful colors, you really need to see it to appreciate how beautiful it is) that I had cut to 4 x 5 1/4".  Next I cut a strip of Peacock cardstock that measured 1 x 5 1/4" along the bottom and then I cut another piece of the Florence paper (this time a saffron colored paper with chevrons) to 1/2 x 5 1/4" and centered it on top of the peacock cardstock (this is where I would stamp my sentiment, which I decided to wait to do until I knew what I was going to use the card for).  I also stamped three images from the Ornate Blossoms stamp set and cut them out using the Ornate Blossoms Thin Cuts (you will be seeing a lot more of this stamp and die set over the next month, but remember they also retire at the end of August so get them quick before they sell out).  I stamped one on Saffron cardstock using poppy ink and one on Poppy cardstock using peacock ink, I then used clear embossing powder on both of them.  I then stamped the third one on Peacock cardstock using VersaMark clear ink and embossed it using Princess Gold embossing Powder.  You could just stamp them and skip the embossing but I was really happy with the affect and dimension it gave me. I used 3-D foam tape and popped up the Peacock and Poppy ornate blossoms and put the Saffron one straight down on the card.  I always like to add dimension any where I can and this is a great way to do that.  

I have listed all the supplies I used below and as always you can find them and lots of other great stuff on my OBA at www.craftwithronnie.ctmh.com or by clicking the shopping cart at the top of this blog.  As always, have a great day and Happy Crafting!!!!

Supplies:

White Value Pack of cards and envelopes (X254)

Paper:  Florence Paper Packet (X7208B), Enchantment Cardstock Combo Pack (X5781)

Ornate Blossoms Stamp Set (D1687) and Ornate Blossoms Thin Cuts (Z3227)

Inks: Poppy (Z2652), Peacock (Z2649) and VersaMark (Z891)

Embossing Powder: Ranger Princess Gold (Z2066) and Ranger Clear Super Fine (Z2088)

Misc:  Thin 3-D Foam Tape (Z2060)