Monday, April 29, 2013

Garden Boots


I'm back!  Feels like forever since I've shared ~ I've been under the weather since mid last week but I think I'm getting back on track now.  I'm also on the home stretch to say I've completed my Spring cleaning; I tackled my stamp room this weekend and am now fully organized once again!  It was so nice to sit down to create and have everything in its place; it sure makes finding things much easier :)

I've also managed to finish another huge task for me; I've filmed my first video tutorial for the blog!  I haven't sat to edit it as of yet simply because I haven't felt up to it but I can't wait to share it with you!  I applaud those that post videos a few times a week - I can't imagine how they manage to create, film, then edit that often (especially if they have small children...there never seems to be a quiet time to film!).  I don't think it will be something I do on a frequent basis but definitely will try to do one at least once a month.

Let's talk about today's card share!  I've been patiently awaiting Spring and now that its here I thought the rubber boots from the Bootiful Occasions would be a great kick off to my "Summery" card designs.  These boots are so much fun to color!  I added a simple picket fence over top of a brayered background and viola! we have a cute little garden scene to help brighten your day!

Supplies:

Stamp sets: Bootiful Ocassions
Cardstock: Whisper White, Daffodil Delight, Calypso Coral
Ink: Tempting Turquoise, Old Olive, Always Artichoke, Basic Gray, Basic Black
Accessories: Brayer, 3/16" corner punch, Large Oval punch,  So Saffron, Summer Starfruit, Pool Party markers, sponges, paper snips, Tombow adhesive, dimensionals

First begin by brayering a piece of Whisper White measuring 5" x 3 3/4" cardstock with Tempting Turquoise on the upper 2/3.  Brayer Old Olive on the bottom portion and add Always Artichoke with a sponge along the bottom of the cardstock for depth.

Cut lengths of Whisper White cardstock to approximately 1/2" wide by 2 1/2" long.  Shape upper edges using the 3/16" corner punch.  Sponge all edges with Basic Gray ink.  This forms the pickets of the fence.

Cut 2 pieces of Whisper White cardstock 1/4" x 5".  Sponge edges with Basic Gray ink.  This will form the rails of the fence.  Glue the bottom rail to the area close to the bottom of the grassline.  Evenly space and glue the pickets over top of the bottom rail.  Glue the top rail to the top area of the pickets.

Stamp 2 of the rubber boots onto Whisper White cardstock using Basic Black.  Color in images with So Saffron marker and add shadows along the edges with a Summer Starfruit marker.  Add shadows to the clouds with a Pool Party marker.  Cut out with paper snips, add dimensionals to the back of each boot and layer on top of the picket fence.

The sentiment was stamped in Basic Black ink onto Calypso Coral cardstock and punched out with the Large Oval punch.  Finished product was added to a Calypso Coral mat on a Daffodil Delight card base measuring 5 1/2" x 8 1/2".

Hope you enjoy you day!  Until next time...

**And don't forget about the Late Night Stamper's Treasure Hunt!  Get your clues in ASAP as there is only a little over a week and a half left!**
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Wednesday, April 24, 2013

Get These Retiring Products Before They're Gone!

Hi!

Today's the day!  The retiring list for stamps and accessories has been released!  You'll want to check them and out and get them quickly because once they're gone, they're gone for good!

To see the list of retiring stamp sets, click HERE
To see the list of retiring accessories, click HERE

If you see something you want to grab before its gone, head over to my online store at www.melissabanbury.stampinup.net to place your order today!

I'm just about done (praise the Lord!) with my Spring cleaning so I'll hopefully be able to post a project tomorrow!  Until then, have fun making your shopping lists ;)

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Monday, April 22, 2013

Watercolored Embossed Resist Poppy Field


Hello!

I found a great new technique to try over at Splitcoast Stampers website last week called Watercoloring Embossing Resist.  It looked so soft and pretty and, after doing this technique just once, I know I'll be using it again in upcoming projects!

The method is fairly straight forward - stamp image onto watercolor paper in Versamark then heat emboss with white embossing powder.  Then using ink pads and an Aquapainter color in the image.  The beauty of this technique (which is the case in most techniques I love) is that the results will never be the same!  I love that!

Supplies: 

Stamp sets: Pleasant Poppies
Cardstock: Watercolor paper, Gumball Green, Tempting Turquoise
Ink: Primrose Petals, Raspberry Ripple, Gumball Green, Tempting Turquoise
Accessories: Versamark, White embossing powder, Aquapainter, Primrose Petals stitched grosgrain ribbon, Honeycomb embossing folder, Basic Rhinestones, snail adhesive

Just a note: as with any watercoloring technique you can build up the color little by little until you reached the desired result.  I began with Primrose Petals on the Poppies then let that dry fully before adding the shading with Raspberry Ripple.  The sky is shaded with many layers, focusing more depth of color around the outside of the stems and flowers.  This can also be achieved by not allowing a lot of water to enter into the tip of the Aquapainter.  As with any technique, I can see the more practice I give it the better I will like the results.  Give it a try, I think you'll love it!

This Wednesday the Retired List will go live to make room for all the new additions being added to the new catalog due out June 1st!  Check back as I will be posting the list - you'll want to pick up on any retired items quickly as they are on a first come first serve basis.

Keep those entries for the Late Night Stamper's Treasure Hunt coming in!  You have just a couple weeks left to find all your clues and be entered for the $150 Stampin' Up! shopping spree in product of your choice!  The list of participating demo's can be found under the tab at the top of my blog.

Have a great day!!
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Thursday, April 18, 2013

My Digital Studio FREE Download!

Hi Stampers!

Sorry, no card today but I have a couple of goodies you just might want to get your hands on!  In honor of My Digital Studio's Facebook Fan Page reaching 20,000 fans SU! is giving away the Playful Polka Dots Kit download for FREE! If you'd like to download yours click HERE.  I can't wait to play with mine!  And remember, if you haven't tried out MDS yet, you can sign up for the 30 day free trial (link in the left sidebar).

This kit includes:

  • 4 designer series paper patterns
  •  55 embellishments
  • one 8 1/2" x 11" template
  • co-ordinating colors included in this download are Daffodil Delight, Old Olive, Pumpkin Pie, and Rose Red

A second Submit a Project Kit has been released called The Dolled Up Birthday Kit!  In one simple to create kit (item #133913) for only $17.95 you'll receive:

  • Dolled Up Birthday Photopolymer stamp (1)
  • 8 1/2" x 5 1/2" Crumb Cake cardstock (6)
  • 2" x 4 1/4" Very Vanilla Cardstock (6)
  • Very Vanilla medium envelopes (6)
  • Tea Lace Paper Doilies (6)
  • Dress Up Die Cuts (6)
  • Soft Suede Classic Stamp Spot (1)
  • Vanilla 5/8" flower trim (6)
  • Sponge Dauber (1)
The only thing not included in the kit is adhesive!  This kit is perfect for beginners and those who like to make a quick card to give!

Have a great day!  The snow is finally beginning to melt so maybe Spring has finally sprung!!!

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Wednesday, April 17, 2013

Spring Terrarium Project


Happy Wednesday!

Today I'm sharing the final project I created for U Stamp with Dawn & Friends, Big Shot Roundup.  I went for big bangs of color and tons of texture in this little terrarium and matching card.  I've decided to display a flower and butterflies in mine but you could substitute for just butterflies or maybe some punch art ladybugs...use your imagination!

I'm really enjoying the opportunity to design for Dawn and think a little outside the box when designing my projects!  Sometimes its just the motivation I need to be given a challenge and left to design within it.

All of this brainstorming has left me with a new idea for the blog that I hope to launch beginning in May.  I'm currently working on the beginnings of a Porch Swing Creations Virtual Club!  Each month I will have tutorials for purchase that will contain 2 to 4 projects and/or cards that will include full step by step tutorials so you can re-create in the comfort of your own home whenever it works best for you!  I hope to
co-ordinate the tutorials with upcoming holidays so you have plenty of time to gather all your materials and get projects completed.  The month of May will focus on Mother's and Father's Day so stay tuned for a sneak peek and more details!  I'm super excited and can't wait to share with you!

A final quick note before I sign off for today - you may have noticed that my URL has changed to simply www.porchswingcreations.com. so feel free to update your bookmark (or add it!) :) Note that you will be automatically re-directed if you search or type in my old URL.

Until next time!
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Tuesday, April 16, 2013

Hostess Offer


Do you ever wish you had more money to spend on Stampin' Up! products?  Consider your wish granted!  Between April 15th and May 30th if you host a $400 party you earn an additional $40 in free products!  That means you would have $120 to spend because this offer is in ADDITION to the $70 you already receive in regular Hostess benefits!
  **Remember: you can host a party anywhere in Canada!  Contact me to get your HOSTESS CODE, then invite family and friends to place their orders online, each of which will be shipped directly to them**
  ** You'll receive all Hostess benefits based on their order totals as well as your totals **

Or if you've ever considered joining Stampin' Up! as a demonstrator now might be the time!  By JOINING MY TEAM between April 15th and May 30th will earn you an ADDITIONAL $40 IN PRODUCT in your Starter Kit.  This is a great deal that gets you $195 in SU! product of your choice for only $125!!!!  Contact me for further details on this exciting opportunity!

 Just a quick reminder to get your 50 clues in for the Late Night Stamper's Treasure Hunt!  If you still haven't started your hunt its not too late!  There's less than a month to go before the winner is announced on May 15th so that still leaves plenty of time for a little huntin'!  For further details click HERE.

Once you have all your clues, email them to me at mmp12_98@yahoo.com to have your name entered in the draw.  Remember - the winner receives $150 in FREE Stampin' Up! product!

Until next time...


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Monday, April 15, 2013

All Dressed Up


I finally was able to find a little time to try out the precious little Dress Up Framelits dies over the weekend.  Its embarrassing to think how long I've had them and hadn't used them yet because they are so much fun to play with!  There is tons of inspiration out there on how to use these dies, which is exactly how I found the idea for this dress form - who wouldn't want to wear this dress??

Supplies:

Stamp sets: Forever Young
Cardstock: Whisper White, Primrose Petals, Very Vanilla, Basic Black, Chocolate Chip
Ink: Marina Mist, Basic Black
Accessories: Dress Up Framelits, Window Frame Framelits, Petals a Plenty embossing folder, Real Red marker, Flower Trim, Basic Pearls, Brayer, Tombow, dimensionals

The window was made by cutting out the second to largest Window Frame Framelit from Chocolate Chip cardstock.  I then cut the third to largest frame from Whisper White and brayered it with Marina Mist ink.  The tree from the set Forever Young was stamped in the left bottom corner in Basic Black ink before I cut the frame into quarters.  I then glued this piece onto the Chocolate Chip frame leaving a small space between all sections to create the look of a window frame.

The dress stand was cut from Basic Black cardstock, with the dress cut of Very Vanilla layered on top.  Flower trim was added with Tombow followed by some Basic Pearls at the waistline of the dress.  A pearl necklace was the finishing touch.  The dress and the window were adhered to the card base with dimensionals.

Hope you found inspiration in this one!  Until next time...
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Friday, April 12, 2013

April FB Cover Photo & New Wood-Mount Cases


Hello!

Well, we've made it through another week!  We are still experiencing winter on the Saskatchewan Prairies - freezing rain through the night and snow in the forecast for the weekend.  I'm beginning to think 7 months of winter might be a tad ridiculous.  I absolutely can not wait to complain about how hot it is!

I realized I hadn't shared by Facebook cover photo for April here on the blog yet so I thought I'd bring you up to date.  If you'd like to have access to all my Facebook updates, like my page!  The link is in the right sidebar - here you'll find links to all my posts, Stampin' Up! updates, and a few cool project shares I find on my internet travels!

This cover photo features just a few quick flowers that I re-colored (love this new option!) from the Green Tea stamp set and a pretty little bow to finish things off.  I found this really cute font a while back from a free font site - don't you think the little daisies are sweet?  Keep in mind, if you are considering taking the plunge into the world of creating using My Digital Studio you can try the software FREE for 30 days.  Click on the My Digital Studio button on the left sidebar to be re-directed to my online store to sign up today!


Stampin' Up! has new wood mount case packaging!  These cases are designed to be similar to the clear mount cases and for that reason fit perfectly beside them on a shelf.  The also come with the name of the stamp set along with images in the set on the spine, which makes finding a set on a shelf so much easier.

Beginning on May 31st all wood mount stamp sets will be shipped in this packaging.  You'll also be able to order empty cases with the launch of the new catalogue so all your old sets can be transferred to the new packaging!  A pack of 4 half size cases (3 3/4" x 5 1/2" ) will retail for $5.95 and  a pack of 4 full size cases (7 1/2" x 5 1/2" ) will retail for $8.95.

After watching the short little video, I can wait to get my hands on these - and it won't be only just to transfer all my old sets over for easier storage!  Think of all the crafts you can do with these cases!!  I'm thinking goody boxes decorated for any occasion, hostess gifts, surprise boxes, cases to hold misc supplies...endless possibilities!

Have a great weekend!  I'll be back Monday with new projects!!

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Thursday, April 11, 2013

Duck Commander Girl Style

Howdy!

I don't know about anyone else out there but my household (ok, just my husband) is more than slightly obsessed with the A&E show Duck Dynasty.  I'll admit I don't mind watching the NEW episodes but I've watched most episodes more than a dozen times courtesy of my husband having control of the remote.  I don't know how he can watch something for the 8th time and find just as funny as the 1st...men LOL!

But in honor of all those ladies who I know watch and love the show I came up with a girly version birthday card.  I got the idea for the pink duck camo in the background from a publicity photo for the show.  It featured all the ladies dressed in pink duck camo dresses with the same print as the backdrop.  Pretty cool and unique idea I thought!

Supplies:

Stamp sets: Delightful Dozen
Cardstock: Pink Pirouette, Pretty in Pink, Primrose Petals, Melon Mambo, Real Red, Basic Black
Ink: none
Accessories: Versamark marker, Melon Mambo embossing powder, paper snips, Tombow liquid glue

I'd love to say this could be re-created with punches but the fact of the matter is I did this entire layout by hand.  I drew out the outline of the duck for the camo in the background on computer paper then used carbon paper to transfer the outline to the various colors of pink cardstock.  From there I cut each out with paper snips and adhered them randomly to a Real Red cardstock base.  The Duck Commander logo was done the same way.  I sketched the logo onto computer paper then transferred it to Basic Black cardstock.  Each piece was again cut out with paper snips and glued on with Tombow.

The sentiment was done by using a Versamarker to highlight just the Happy Birthday portion of the birthday image in the Delightful Dozen set.  I stamped this 3x (after all, Phil always says "Happy Happy Happy") then sprinkled with Melon Mambo embossing powder and heat set.

Hope you liked this one!  Thanks so much for stopping by!
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Wednesday, April 10, 2013

Family Tree Topiary


Hello!

Wow, its already mid week and were just about at the halfway point in April!  Where does the time go?  I've been super busy attempting a little Spring cleaning in my home so my stamping has suffered over the last couple weeks.  In my spare time (you know, those hours between midnight and 6 am? LOL) I've been working on a couple exciting new avenues for this blog so stayed tuned for more details coming soon!

Today I wanted to share another project I did for this month's U Stamp with Dawn & Friends, Big Shot Roundup.  I love topiary's but I wanted to create something with a bit of a unique twist.  I have a gallery wall in my home of wedding pictures from both my husband's and my side going back to our four sets of Grandparent's.  I decided those same pictures might make for a really unique project with paired with the topiary along with baby pictures of my boys.  After I completed the project I wished I had thought of this idea when I was getting married.  Wouldn't it look spectacular on the Guest Book table reminding guests and the Bride & Groom of past happy family marriages?


Here's a picture of all the photo's I used on my topiary - I changed all the pictures to Sepia so they would look similar when placed together.

If you are interested in seeing full details and step by step instructions on this project, click on the Big Shot Round up blinkie in the left sidebar to be redirected to the site.




Before I sign off for today, I wanted to share a new stamp set available called Bomb's Away Birthday.  What makes this set so unique is that its Photopolymer; which provides a much clearer way to use your stamps.  What does that mean, you ask?  Well, photopolymer stamps are entirely transparent, which ensures you will have perfect alignment of your image every time.  Another great feature - the stamps are sticky, ok very sticky, but in a good way!  They have been tested and re-tested and will stick to the clear acrylic blocks amazingly well!

Watch this video to learn more on this new line of stamps!


Have a wonderful day!
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Monday, April 8, 2013

Little Lamb Baptism


Happy Monday!

The sun is finally shining here after another full weekend of snow...I really hope that was the last snowfall!  Even through the dreariness of the weekend, my family managed a little celebration.  My youngest son and niece were Baptized together!  It's always a special time but I think it held a little more meaning simply because I was able to share it along with my sister and her little family.  This is the card I made in honor of my little niece.

Supplies:

Stamp sets: Make a Wish
Cardstock: Pretty in Pink, Whisper White, Basic Gray, Subltes DSP Paper Stack
Ink: Pretty in Pink
Accessories: Petals a Plenty EF, 1 3/4" Scallop Circle punch, Modern Label punch, 1 1/4" circle punch, 1/2" circle punch, Basic Black marker, Tombow liquid adhesive, Snail, Dimensionals

To make the little lamb:

  • Punch 2 - 1 3/4" scallop circles from Whisper White, glue them together slightly offset.
  • Punch another 1 3/4" scallop circle from Whisper White.  Place this circle back inside the punch about half way and punch again.  This will create the head shape of the lamb.  Add an eye with a Basic Black marker.
  • Punch a 1 1/4" circle from Basic Gray.  Trim the circle slightly to give the nose a little definition.
  • Punch 2 Modern Label shapes; one from Whisper White and one from Basic Gray.  Cut each piece in half.
  • Layer the Basic Gray pieces behind the Whisper White pieces to create the lamb's legs and hooves.
  • The ear and tail are circles punched from the 1/2" circle punch and trimmed to shape.
The cross was drawn with a ruler, cut out with paper snips, then the edges were rounded with a 1 1/4" circle punch.

Don't forget that today is the last day in the FREE SHIPPING event!  There is no minimum purchase so stock up on all those retired colors I mentioned in this POST last week!

See you tomorrow!

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Friday, April 5, 2013

Pool Party Sky


Happy Friday!

I needed a thank you card for this weekend and was inspired by a similar card from Stampin' Up! Demo, Kerry Bunting.  The color combo of Pool Party and Black is stunning together!  The unfortunate part is that it is incredibly dark and gloomy here today (more snow...argh!) so even by taking this picture in my usual locale and editing it within an inch of its life I couldn't capture the true beauty of Pool Party.  Please use your imagination ;)

Supplies:

Stamp sets: Serene Silhouettes
Cardstock: Whisper White, Pool Party, Basic Black
Ink: Pool Party, Basic Black
Accessories: Houndstooth Embossing Folder, Window Frames Collection Framelits, 1 1/4" circle punch, Pool Party ribbon from Sale-a-bration ribbon and button pack, sponges, snail, dimensionals

This card uses the simplest of masking techniques.  After cutting out my frame with the Window Framelits, I masked off the sun with a 1 1/4" circle punched from a post it note.  I sponged Pool Party ink over the entire piece of cardstock, removed the post it and stamped the image in Basic Black.

Before I go, don't forget about the 3 DAY FREE SHIPPING happening this Saturday through Monday (6-8th)!  You'll want to take advantage of this - perfect for a little order or to stock up on those colors that will only be available until supplies last!

Have a wonderful weekend!
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Thursday, April 4, 2013

Exploding Presents and Exciting Announcements!


Hello!

Today I'm sharing a card method that I found on Lisa Young's BLOG - the moment I seen these pop up presents I wanted to give it a whirl!  She has a great step by step tutorial on her blog to help you along with all the dimensions and scoring - gotta love a good tutorial!!  After making the base of the card, the wrapping on the presents and the designing of the card front is up to you!  I decided to stick with the Subtles Designer Series Paper Stack in Baja Breeze and Certainly Celery.  The ribbon is some left overs from Sale-a-bration :)

Supplies:

Stamp Sets: Delightful Dozen
Cardstock: Pool Party, Very Vanilla, Subtles Designer Series Paper Pack (Baja Breeze, Certainly Celery)
Ink: Baja Breeze
Accessories: Simply Scored Scoring Tool, Sale-a-bration ribbon pack in Island Indigo and Pool Party (retired), snail, mini glue dots

Some very exciting news was released this morning from Stampin' Up!  In 2010, after a huge color renovation, it was decided that every three to five years they like to do a little "Color Refresh" with the core colors in all four color groups - Brights, Subtles, Regals, and Neutrals.  Here's the new core color list along with 10 discontinuing colors, plus one BRAND NEW COLOR ADDED!
I must admit the Subtle discontinued list made me a little sad at first glance - all four colors are ones I rely on more often than I'd like to admit, but I'm so very happy to see Pool Party and Blushing Bride on the new core list in their place!

An important note: all paper, ink, ribbon, and accessories will only be available from today until supplies sell out.  To help make sure you get stocked up on your favorites before they're gone Stampin' Up! is offering FREE SHIPPING for THREE days only - April 6-8 and best of all there's no minimums!  Visit my online store today to stock up!  And remember, a $50 purchase means a new catalog mailed directly to you after May 1st!

Well, I'm off to get a little more Spring Cleaning done and use up some of the paper soon retiring LOL.

Until next time...
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Tuesday, April 2, 2013

Spring Fresh Banner


Hello!

I hope everyone had a wonderful Easter weekend! I spent yesterday preparing taxes so that I wouldn't feel guilty about working on cards later on in the month :)

Today I'm sharing another project I created for U Stamp with Dawn & Friends.  It's a hybrid project of sorts - all the lettering was done and printed in My Digital Studio!  If you'd like to make a cheery little Spring banner for yourself, head on over to download a full step by step picture tutorial (just click on the Big Shot Roundup blinky in the left column).  There are spectacular new projects uploaded every 12 hours so check back often!

A new month also means a new 25yr Best of Stamp set - the month of April is Butterflies!
Keep in mind that for every 6 Best of Sets you collect you can redeem the attached stickers for a stamp set of your choice with a value of $17.95 for FREE!  With the new catalogue being released in just two short months I'm sure you'll have a hard time choosing!

I'm so excited for the new 2013-2014 catalogue, how about you??  If you'd like to be first in line to get yours I can have it delivered straight to your mailbox!  Simply place a $50 order anytime in the month of April in my ONLINE STORE and I will mail you a brand new catalog! The shipping will begin on May 1st!

Also just a quick reminder to email me your clues for the Late Night Stampers Treasure Hunt!  Fifty (50) clues gets you a chance to win $150 in Stampin' Up! product!  For full details on the Treasure Hunt, click HERE.

Until next time!
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