LilyBean's Paperie

make it shabby...

For quite some time now, I have had readers asking for me to define the shabby style that I love and to explain how I create that particular style.  I feel quite inadequate as I don't know that what I do is anything special, but is simply what I love.  Today I have a special post for you with lots of pictures and some lovely giveaways from people that I love and who's products I enjoy using.  Let me preface this post by saying that I am not the expert on the shabby style, so please don't take offense as I explain what my style is...it is simply that, my style individual style.  I use patterns, colors, and embellishments that I am drawn to and create things that carry with them a certain feel.  

Shabby Chic as I see it is the following:  (best described with pictures)

(photo from vintagerosebrocante)

Shabby Chic is the most serene, lovely, gentle, romantic style I know of.  I am immediately drawn to its characteristics.  It involves age.  It involves weathering and distressing.  Notice in the photo above the age of the envelopes...their color, and the way their edges have curled with time.  Notice the chippy, aged box they are contained in.  You can feel its texture as well as see it.

(photo from peoniesformee)

I am drawn to the sweet and delicate patterns involved with the shabby style...small florals, ginghams, polka dots, stripes, larger muted florals, toile, etc.

(photo from rachelashwell)

The colors I associate with the shabby style are soft, muted pastels that begin with white-wash, cream, and are mixed with pinks, aquas, celery  and sage greens, etc.

(photo from fabulousfifi)

(photo from georgiannalane)

The shabby style carries with it a cozy, homespun, grace and charm and mixes in elements of days gone by.

(photo from acottageinthewoods)

(photo from charlottelyons)

I associate the Shabby Chic look with fabrics, tea-stained trims and tags, book print, newsprint, sheet music, muslin, machine and hand stitching, raw edges, and texture.

(photo from elfenpulver)

(photo from kef-mylovelylife)

The Shabby Chic style is all about the tiniest of details from the buttons that have been threaded with floss, to the touches of trim, snippets of fabric, distressing, the sparkle, to the layering.

(photo from stampington)

(photo from dyingofcute)

So, how about a short tutorial on my creative process?  

I created this card today with scraps I had lying around...fabrics, trims, die cuts, paper, etc.

This card started with my desire to create some die-cut vintage sewing pattern flowers, so I gathered up my dies, Beautiful Blooms II #1, Notched Flowers, and Flower Fusion #3 dies and a folded sewing pattern and ran them through my die-cutting machine.  The fun thing about using a sewing pattern is that it creates oodles of layers...they are a bit messy, but I love that about them.  I don't worry about stacking the die cut flowers neatly afterward, I just layer them up and the scattered look is perfect!

I then decided I wanted some fabric layers added into the sewing pattern flowers, so I used the same die cuts and some tea-stained fabrics and cut a few flowers to layer in.

This is the result of all of that die-cutting...a sweet as can be flower layered with texture and charm.  I free-hand cut an oval from some vintage trim and layered it in near the top and then ran the layers through my sewing machine to secure them all together.  I scrunched up the blossoms and it just added fullness and life...so fun, you  must try!

The next step was to create my card base.  I used Papertrey Ink's Sweet Blush cardstock and as I always do, I edged it with off-white acrylic paint which just involves taking a foam brush, dipping the corner into the paint, and lightly swiping it across and around the edges of the card...gives it a white washed feel with a bit of age.

I then chose papers in three coordinating patterns to add to the front of the card.  Notice that I chose a book print, a small floral, and a polka dot in cream, pink, and green.

I then added a strip of patterned paper in cream along with a strip of vintage trim down the left side of the card.  I ran the card front through my sewing machine and gave it mismatched stitching to create a little more character and interest.

Next step, a strip of Vanilla Bean scrunched seam binding across the center of the card tied in a double bow on the right.

I them used a chipboard scroll from Maya Road that I painted with off-white acrylic paint, then sanded the edges, and then coated with Lily White Sugar Coating from Doodlebug.  Now I'm ready to pile on the toppings and finish my card.

The flower was placed just to the left of the double bow with the distressed and glittered chipboard piece tucked under the flower petals.  The center of the flower was embellished with a tied Sweet Blush button.

I added the chipboard butterfly next...I have information on my blog from a while back as to how I created this.  It's embellished with a Spring Moss button, and button twine antennae.

Lastly, I added a hand stamped tag that was created using the Hanging Out stamp set and Copic Markers.  I attached it to the center of the double bow using a trinket pin from Tim Holtz.

I age all of my papers, chipboard, and tags using Papertrey Ink's Vintage Touch Ink Cubes.  They are just the right size to lightly brush across the paper or around the edges and create the most beautiful distressing.

And, here is our final product!

I hope this was helpful in some way.  Please know I am always happy to answer your questions.

Now...to share a few of my favorite shabby things with you...

You'll notice I used plenty of scrunched seam binding.  It's probably one of my happiest findings and I have a hard time not using it.  The shabby chic style comes with ruffles and plenty of frill, so I think the main reason I am attracted to  scrunched seam binding is because it brings in the ruffle and frill so perfectly, not to mention it comes in so many beautiful shades.  I love shopping at My Craft Spot for scrunched seam binding.  If you haven't discovered it yet, you'll love it!  My favorite colors are Vanilla Bean, Raspberry Truffle, Sping Breeze, Sky Blue, Spring Moss.

I also love shopping for shabby papers and embellishments at Frost it Pink.  Amy's store is full of unique treasures and anything you need to create your shabby heart out!  In the Vintage and Unique Treasures section of her store, you can find doilies, cherubs, glittered stars and hearts, twine, satin angel wings, foil crowns, Kraft and glassine bags, rhinestone chain, rusty jingle bells, chenille candy canes, etc.

 

Both of these ladies are offering gift certificates to their stores as part of my shabby blog post.  So, one lucky lady will receive the following:

~$30.00 worth of scrunched seam binding or any product from My Craft Spot.

~a $25.00 gift certificate to Frost it Pink.

 

All you have to do is leave a comment for me here on this post and on Tuesday, May 29th, I will announce the winner here on my blog.

Happy shabby, crafting!

Melis 

 

 

reserved for...

Emma's Paperie has the most beautiful color challenge posted for May...colors that I live for, so I happily set to work with my favorite supplies and created a couple of cards to share with you.

The cards use beautiful supplies from Glitz Design, Prima, Webster's Pages, My Mind's Eye, and Cosmo Cricket.  

A complete supply list can be found HERE at Emma's Paperie.  The scrunched seam binding can be found at My Craft Spot.  

And, seeing as how the Prima Songbird collection has won me over, I have another card to share with you using beautiful paper from this set along with Papertrey Ink's Modern Wood Mats stamp set, Maya Road Organza Tea Garden Trim in Rose, scrunched seam binding from My Craft Spot, and washi tape from Freckled Fawn.....I love this sweet, transparent mint washi!

 

Thanks for your visit!

Enjoy your Sunday.

Melis

 

got the munchies?

It's one of those days...I'm craving home-baked sweets.  Not anything I can buy at the grocery store, but something warm, rich, melty, and sweet, that will make my house smell cozy while it's baking.  Ever have one of those days?

Today on the Melissa Frances blog I have some sweet treat bags I'm sharing along with a quick and easy tutorial on using Tissue Paper Garland and glitter in order to dress up your packages and paper-crafting projects.  Those two items are two of my most favorite must-haves around here.  They have a way of making everything more beautiful.

I used oodles of Melissa Frances paper, die-cuts, and  cardstock stickers along with some resin embellishments, tea-stained twill, vintage trim, and Maya Road flowers. The beautiful suede leaves are from Freckled Fawn.

You can read more about these projects and learn how to create your own by visiting the Melissa Frances blog.

This card was created for the Vintage Cafe Card Challenge blog and is based on a fun sketch there.

Along with Papertrey Ink's Background Basics:  Farm & Barn, Rosie Posie, and Tag-Its #12 stamp sets, I used Simply Chartreuse felt, the Sending You die, Maya Road Organza Tea Garden Trim in Rose and Mini Love Hanger, a wood heart from Studio Calico, Dear Lizzy chipboard, and the sweetest washi tape ever from Freckled Fawn.

Did I mention I have the munchies?  These are calling my name I think...

Peanut Butter Cup S'Mores Bars from The Sweet Life.

Brownie Cookies from Cinnamon Spice & Everything Nice.

 

Good Night Sally!  What is wrong with me?  Nothing at all...just a girl who loves her ooey, gooey, chocolatey, fix once in a while.

Off to make somethin'.

Thanks for your visit!

Melis

 

lovely, happy, beautiful...

I hope your day has been all of these things, lovely, happy, and beautiful.  Mine certainly has.  Life is good!

I'm here with a couple of things to share with you tonight...sharing my love of shabby!  It's delicious I think.

Most of the items used on this first project are from Maya Road.  One of my most favorite companies as they pretty much just have it all...chipboard, yummy velvet ribbons, Kraft galore, trinkets, stamps, trims, embellishments, the list goes on and on.

The actual chipboard artist tray is from Maya Road as well and I just gave it a coat of off-white acrylic paint, sanded it, aged it with distress ink and then went to town filling it full of pretty things I love.

And, yes...here we go again with jars and stars :)  They are lovely, happy, and beautiful and I have so much fun creating with them, not to mention that I love the sentiments in the Super Stars stamp set from Papertrey Ink and I hadn't used the sentiment included on this card yet...so I switched up the colors a bit and recreated one more card.  

This card uses the Friendship Jar, Super Stars, and Tiny Tags stamp sets, along with Super Star, Tiny Tags, Jar, and Jar Toppers dies.   

And....I have been craving Cinnamon Roll Cake for days now...maybe tonight is the night to get busy and just make it already!  My friend Kendra made this not too long ago and it was SO heavenly.  Most definitely comfort food for the soul.

(photo and recipe from cookinupnorth)

 

Night.

Melis

 

 

 

 

papertrey ink may...

Today I am able to share with you my Papertrey Ink new release projects.  It has been such a fun month of releases...maybe even my most favorite yet.  I must be ready for summer break to begin as these stamps seem to hit the spot.

We'll get started with the Flipping Out set...I ADORE this wonderful set of stamps.

I love the many different patterns available with this set and then of course to get to cut out flowers and hearts for embellishments using the coordinating dies just makes the creating even more fun.  

And....the Chevron Stripe Border die collection has won my heart!  Lots of fun I tell you.

The fun papers used on this card are from the new Simple Stories Summer Fresh collection.

Happy Summer! Card

Papertrey Ink Supplies Used:
Stamps:
Flipping Out and Modern Wood Mats
Ink:
Harvest Gold, Vintage Cream, Spring Moss, and Pure Poppy
Cardstock:
Vintage Cream, Pure Poppy, and Kraft
Accents:
Harvest Gold felt
Tools:
Chevron Stripe Border dies

Other Supplies Used:
Simple Stories paper
burlap

I can't begin to tell you how much I love the Happy Hydrangeas set...Maile does such an amazing job at designing her sets.  This set is just beautiful and truly so easy to use.  The coordinating dies make it easy to add dimension and creativity to each project.  And, the new Winter Wisteria is the most beautiful color, and the new Think Big Favorites #16 is another beauty.

With Gratitude Card Papertrey Ink Supplies Used: Stamps: Happy Hydrangeas and Think Big Favorites #16 Cardstock: Rustic Cream and Winter Wisteria Paper: Pretty Pastels, Fine Linen Gingham and Bitty Dot Ink: Winter Wisteria, Spring Moss, Lavender Moon, and Kraft Accents: Lavender Moon buttons, Vintage Cream felt Tools: Mat Stack 5, Layerz Mat Stack 5, Happy Hydrangeas, and Chevron Stripe border dies Other Supplies Used: Melissa Frances, Prima, and My Mind's Eye paper tea stained twill Maya Road flower

This card also uses the Happy Hydrangeas stamp set and dies along with the Background Basics:  Farm & Barn, and Fillable Frames Sentiments.  

Special Day Card Papertrey Ink Supplies Used: Stamps: Happy Hydrangeas, Fillable Frames Sentiments, Background Basics: Farm & Barn Ink: Melon Berry, Sweet Blush, Ripe Avocado, and Smokey Shadow Cardstock: Melon Berry, Sweet Blush, and Rustic cream Tools: Happy Hydrangeas Accents: Sweet Blush button Other Supplies Used: Maya Road trinket pin Melissa Frances paper My Craft Spot scrunched seam binding

This card uses the new Fillable Frames #4, Background Basics:  Farm & Barn, and Crackled stamp sets.  The Crackled set is going to get much use around here.  It's beautiful!

Just a Note Card

Papertrey Ink Supplies Used:
Stamps:
Framed Out #4, Background Basics: Farm & Barn, and Crackled
Ink:
Autumn Rose and Kraft
Cardstock:
Rustic Cream, Sweet Blush, Spring Moss, and Autumn Rose
Tools:
Mega Mat Stack 5, Framed Out #4, Turning a New Leaf, Buttoned Up #2, Sending You
Accents:
Autumn Rose and Simply Chartreuse felt, Classic Kraft button

Other Supplies Used:
Simple Stories and Basic Grey paper
Studio Calico wood heart
vintage trim

You'll also love the new Heart-2-Heart #4 stamp set...how cute is that phone?

Hello Sweet Friend! Card

Papertrey Ink Supplies Used:
Stamps: 
Heart-2-Heart #4
Ink:
Pure Poppy, Berry Sorbet, Dark Chocolate, and Spring Moss
Cardstock:
Sweet Blush and Vintage Cream
Tools:
Heart-2-Heart #4 die
Accents:
Berry Sorbet button, Vintage Cream twill

Other Supplies Used:
Basic Grey paper
Freckled Fawn washi tape
Doodlebug gem

I think that does it for me this month.  Thank you for your visits and sweet comments.

Be sure to stop by and visit the other designers as they have beautiful things to share with you.

• Heather Nichols
• Dawn McVey
• Betsy Veldman
• Ashley Cannon Newell
• Maile Belles
• Jessica Witty
• Erin Lincoln
• Danielle Flanders
• Mish Wooderson
• Debbie Olson

Melis

summer camp...

Happiest new week to you and welcome to Papertrey Ink's second group post for May!  Are you ready for some more fun?  This next set we're sharing with you today is all about summer, the great outdoors, marshmallows and chocolate, campfires, and sleeping under the stars.  Heather Nichols has designed a new set called Summer Camp and it is so much FUN to work with.

My first project was inspired by the following photo (no surprise that it involves food):

(photo from tipjunkie.com)

I LOVE cookie mixes in jars...there is something so delightfully fun about giving and receiving them and I love seeing all of the delicious goodness layered so beautifully for all to see, so off I went to create a cookie mix in a jar for the Happy Camper!

I wanted to show that a set that you may typically think would be masculine can most certainly be used for other types of projects, so I threw in some cream, aqua, and pink!  I created a cookie mix and layered it in a jar, wrapped the top with a square of Kraft packing paper, and then created a fun pocket with recipe to hang on the front.

Along with images and sentiments from the new Summer Camp stamp set I used the coordinating Rounded Labels die which will also be available on the 15th and is a must have to make all of the fun sentiments Heather has created for this set stand out and take center stage.

I used Kraft, Sweet Blush, and Vintage Cream cardstock, Sweet Blush, Aqua Mist, Kraft, and Dark Chocolate ink, the Seed Packet, Tag Sale #5, Super Stars Border, and Fillable Frames #4 dies.  

Two older stamp sets worked perfectly for this project, the Holiday Treats and Spooky Sweets II stamp sets.  

The recipe is as follows in case you want to make your own!

Happy Camper Cookie Mix

1 1/3 cup flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 cup rolled oats

1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

1/2 cup brown sugar

1 T. cinnamon

1/2 cup white sugar

3/4 cup coconut

• Layer ingredients in jar in the order listed above.
• When ready to bake, mix the jar ingredients together.
• Add the following:

1 egg

1 cup shortening

1 teaspoon vanilla

1 T. milk

• Bake at 375 degrees for 10 minutes.

My next project is most definitely a bit more outdoorsie and is a party waiting to happen!

Just a couple of party ideas using this fun, new set.  First off the card which uses several images from the set...I must say that the bootprints are an adorable touch.  I used Ocean Tides, Vintage Cream, and Kraft cardstock, Ocean Tides, Orange Zest, and Ripe Avocado ink, Mat Stack 1 dies, and you can catch a peek at the new Chevron Stripes Border die here as well....you're gonna want to have it too!  It's so much fun to use.

The buttons and ribbon are Terra Cotta Tile.

Next up are the party favors, party decor, or table markers.  Once again I have recycled my TP tubes and dressed them up for a Roughing It party.

More images from the Summer Camp set can be seen here...love the tent!

Just add marshmallow ka-bobs and ribbon and you're on set!

The fun paper is a new collection from Heather Nichols called Summer Camp, and you can also catch a peek at the new Fine Linen paper collection, and all others you see here are from Simple Stories.

Thanks so much for stopping by.  The other designer's have projects ready to share with you as well.

• Nichole Heady
• Heather Nichols
• Dawn McVey
• Betsy Veldman
• Ashley Cannon Newell
• Maile Belles
• Jessica Witty
• Erin Lincoln
• Danielle Flanders

Melis

 

 

on the farm...

Can you believe another month has come and gone?  Welcome to Papertrey Ink's first group post of May.  Today we are showcasing the fun, new On the Farm stamp set and I have oodles to share with you, so let's get started.

This first project uses the fun new On the Farm stamp set on a home decor project.  I had an old metal watering can on hand, just waiting for the right inspiration to come along so I could dress it up a bit.  This set was perfect!  I used the coordinating On the Farm die collection along with the Happy Day die cut from Vintage Cream cardstock and stamped with Dark Chocolate, Spring Rain, and Pure Poppy ink.  

The label is embellished with Classic Kraft buttons.

I created a few handmade flowers and a pinwheel using the Notched Flowers, Bloom Builder II #1, and Sending You die collections, Harvest Gold and Vintage Cream felt, and Enchanted Evening Baker's Twine.  

I love the sentiments included in this stamp set and this next card shows one of them, very specific to an image available in the set but also a generic sentiment that will work for many different occasions.  

I used the coordinating On the Farm die collection again along with Melon Berry, Classic Kraft, and Aqua Mist ink, Vintage Cream cardstock, Melon Berry grosgrain, and a Classic Kraft button.

This set is wonderful for the little people in your life as well.  My little girl has been a farm animal collector for as long as I can remember and still picks out a new animal or two when she gets to choose a treat.  For this next project, I used an egg carton to create a birthday wrap that holds new farm animals inside for the birthday girl or boy.

I used Spring Moss, Classic Kraft, Orange Zest, Harvest Gold, and Pure Poppy ink, Vintage Cream cardstock, Simply Chartreuse Gingham paper, Harvest Gold felt, Layerz Mat Stack 4, Mega Mat Stack 4, Buttoned Up #2, and the Double Ended Banner dies.  

Here's a peek at the inside where you can see another new release, the Shape Up Series:  Barn Die...so much fun!

The barn was cut using Pure Poppy cardstock and was then stamped with Classic Kraft ink using the new Background Basics:  Farm & Barn stamp set which gave the barn a rustic, authentic look.

Here's a look at another sentiment included in the set stamped with Dark Chocolate ink on a die cut using the Double Ended Banner die.  I used the coordinating On the Farm die collection to cut the rooster for the top of the barn and the clouds are cut from Vintage Cream felt using the Cloud 1 & 2 die collection.  

Nest up is a card using many images from this set stamped on a banner cut from the Banner Builder die collection and stamped in Smokey Shadow ink.  

I also used the Background Basics:  Farm & Barn set here along with Harvest Gold and Classic Kraft ink.  the flower was once again cut using the Notched Flowers die, Buttoned Up #2 die, and Turning a New Leaf die, Harvest Gold, and Simply Chartreuse felt.

The sentiment is stamped in Simply Chartreuse ink.  You can also catch a glimpse here of the new Chicken Wire Impression plate which will be available along with the other new items I mentioned on the 15th of May.

Lastly, a card using one of my favorite sentiments from the set...

Pretty sure this is the first pig I've ever glittered....I just had to.

Love the fun sentiment!

Thanks so much for visiting.  The other designers have creations ready to share with you as well.

• Nichole Heady
• Heather Nichols
• Dawn McVey
• Betsy Veldman
• Ashley Cannon Newell
• Maile Belles
• Jessica Witty
• Erin Lincoln
• Danielle Flanders

Happy weekend!

Melis

 

around the bend...

Hi everyone!  So much to catch up on...so little time.  Lots going on here and within the next few days I will have oodles of Papertrey Ink projects to share with you.  I am in the thick of it right now preparing some fun things to share.  But, for today....I'll play a little catch up and direct you here and there if you feel like doing a little crafty shopping for yourself this Mother's Day :)

Our spotlight last month at Emma's Paperie was on Teresa Collins and all of the beautiful products she creates for us to create with.  I created this paper bag album using many of her papers, cardstock stickers, and one of her lovely, large canvas flowers.  I also used lots of Maya Road trims and embellishments throughout.

Photos of the inside pages along with a supply list and instructions to make your own can be found HERE at Emma's Paperie.  

This card was also created for Emma's Paperie and is based on a sketch you can find there.  The Simple Stories Fabulous line was used on this....oh, how I love my Simple Stories stash, and that little flower power bike reminds me of my little lady and makes  me smile each time I look at it.  Did I tell you we had a mother/daughter activity the other day and boy did she treat me!  We gave hand and foot massages and then of course painted nails.  I currently have grape-y purple nails with silver sparkles...I love my girl and this was so much fun to do with her.

A complete supply list for this card can be found HERE at Emma's Paperie.

Lastly, another fun breezy project to share with you, also created for Emma's Paperie.   I created a paper bag pocket full of gift tags using Pink Paislee's Prairie Hill line.  I love the warm, buttery, cozy colors and patterns included in this collection.  

You can see more photos of each tag inside along with a complete supply list HERE at Emma's Paperie.

Hope your week has been wonderful so far!

Thank you for your visit.

Melis

 

enjoying the little things...

Have you jumped on the washi wagon?  I LOVE it all!  It's very much like candy to my crafty eyes.  Today's project uses Grey Stretched Polka Dot Washi Tape from Freckled Fawn.  Such a beautiful color and appears to have texture to it.  I used it across the bottom of this card and on the coordinating envelope as well.  I also used Ivory Suede Trim for the leaves tucked behind the flower here as well as a doily from Freckled Fawn. Such a fun place to shop...you must treat yourself.  I ordered me up some fun new tapes last week....checked my PO Box for them daily because I just couldn't wait until they were in my hands, and then they came and it was the best mail day ever.   It's the little things I tell you, that make my world go 'round, ha!

I used Papertrey Ink's Modern Wood Mats and coordinating Mat Stack 4 die, Notched Flowers die, and Beautiful Blooms II #1 die.  The felt is Melon Berry and the ink, Harvest Gold...love this color combo.

The paper embellies are from Prima's Songbird collection, the resin flower from Maya Road, and the chevron paper from Dear Lizzy's Neapolitan collection from American Crafts.

And, the envelope...washi is FUN!  Have you washi-d yet?

I have to share these next sweet treats with you.  I have a super artsy and crafty friend named Teva, whom I love for many different reasons.  She is just a very special mother, wife, and friend, and I always come away a better person just from being around her....she shines inside and out.  Well, she had a fun idea not too long ago to exchange some of our crafty items and asked me to create a couple of things for her, and I of course requested an owl...just one...that I could set in my craft room and enjoy.  A little something to remind me of my little one, and of course to have a Teva original.   Well, she presented me with a whole family of them.  A Nate, Melissa, Sierra, and bonus.  I love her and I LOVE them.  They are truly too cute for words.

Yep...that's pink toile...be still my heart :)

They are all lined up on display in my craft room...I'm watching them like a hawk I tell you.  I have this lurking, eerie feeling they are going to slowly start disappearing and ending up other places :)  Well, let me tell you, I have plans.  I have that sneaky, little bean all figured out and I will move them back when she's at school, when she's not looking, and do it over and over again if I have to!

See what I mean?  She's amazing and I love bragging on her.

If you're interested in contacting Teva about purchasing her owls, her email address is:  tevavery@yahoo.com.

Thank you Teva!

Night.

Melis

 

holding tomorrow....

I have a few quiet minutes to pop in today and share some Mother's Day cards with you.  I can't think of a more beautiful day than Mother's Day...a day to celebrate my sweet mom, the tender heart she has, the love she freely gives, the influence she has on my life, and the legacy she has left.  

My heart is very protective of motherhood and it is an incredibly sensitive subject for me.  I have an incredible reverence for it and for the beautiful, miraculous little one that came into my life through adoption...a little angel that I get to mother on this earth and in the life to come.  A little being that I have the opportunity to love as my own and in return, to experience the love she so freely gives.  It blows me away.  I am aware of how hard Mother's Day can be for many of you...perhaps little ones haven't come into your life and family as quickly as you have prayed they would or perhaps not at all.  I understand with all of my heart how difficult this day can be for you and I hope you know that we have something in common.  That familiar ache that doesn't go away...the tears that come when least expected...the longing, the feelings of inadequacy.  I am always here if you ever need a listening ear or shoulder to lean on.  I believe that the term mother extends beyond what we associate it with in our society.  I believe that we as women have been blessed with incredible, beautiful, special qualities and abilities that enable us to open our hearts to others in such a way that beauty and love are given in the most essential way, just as mothers give this type of love to their children.  I remember a very hard Mother's Day just a couple of years ago when announcements were made and I learned that more new babies would be joining the family that coming year.  I was so happy for the mamas...I always am.  I wouldn't want it any other way.  My mother-in-law pulled me aside and just hugged me for a while and told me that a mother has more love than to give just one child.  It was such a true statement and while I haven't had the opportunity to mother another little one, I have much love to give to others and I sure could do a much better job at doing just that.  So, this Mother's Day while I'm celebrating my mother, my grandmothers, my mother-in-law who raised the sweetest, kindest, gentlest, most amazing boy, and the sweet little bean I get to love and cherish, I will also be nudging myself forward to doing more for others.  Letting my walls down so that I can share that love with others instead of keeping them up to protect my heart...shame on me. I get so upset with myself, but I know that all things take time, and this is one of them.

"True spirituality makes you loving and grateful, and forgiving, and patient, and gentle, and long-suffering.  True spirituality breathes reverence into every act and deed."

~Marjorie Pay Hinckley

(Created for the Vintage Cafe Card Challenge blog)

"Some women give birth and raise children but never "mother" them.  Others, whom I love with all my heart, "mother" all their lives but have never given birth.  Therefore, we must understand that however we accomplish it, parenthood is the highest of callings, the holiest of assignments."
~ Patricia Holland, A Quiet Heart

(All of these sweet, lovely, vintage inspired images come from Made by Janet)

 

"You rock a sobbing child without wondering if today’s world is passing you by, because you know you hold tomorrow tightly in your arms."

~Elder Neal A. Maxwell.

Night.

Melis

 

Exquisite Embellishments Blog Hop...

So happy to get to share some exciting news here with  you today.  Several months ago I was asked to contribute some artwork to a beautiful new book called Exquisite Embellishments for Paper Crafts.  It is ready to be unveiled and can be purchased now, but today we're celebrating with a blog hop!

The book is filled with creative uses for embellishing cards and other paper crafts.  Many talented artists contributed to the book and the results are stunning.  I can share a peek of one of my cards with you today...which uses my favorite little confections, buttons and my favorite Red Lead stamp.

Just a sampling of what's inside this fun book!  It's such a beautiful publication I know you'll love it!

The other designer's have projects waiting to share with you as well and be sure to leave a comment for each and every designer as we will be drawing THREE winners at random. Each winner will receive their very own copy of the book absolutely free! The more comments you leave the more chances you have to win! :) Enjoy your hop and thank you so much for stopping by!

Keri Lee - http://www.pinklemonade.typepad.com
Linda - http://lovelylindascraftcentral.blogspot.com.au/
Sherry - www.sherrywright.typepad.com

Lori - http://www.loricraig.blogs.splitcoaststampers.com

Heidi - http://embellished-dreams.blogspot.com/

Kandis - www.mycreativetreasury.blogspot.com

Nina - http://ninabdesigns.blogspot.com/

Sharon - smrdesigns.blogspot.com

Melissa - lilybeanpaperie.typepad.com

Jessica - http://iembellish.blogspot.com/

Tami - http://tamimayberry.blogspot.com/

Teresa - http://paperieblooms.blogspot.com/ 

Jing Jing - http://thislittleartofmine.blogspot.com/

Happy Friday friends!

Melis

sweet & simple...

Hello again!  I'm here to share with you a few projects I created for the Simple Stories blog.  My projects today were inspired by a creation I saw on Pinterest which used none other than an empty toilet paper tube stitched across the bottom to form a treat pocket.  

(photo from Becky Shander via Pinterest)

I couldn't wait to create my own version and set to work using papers and elements from both the Documented, Year-o-graphy, and Fabulous collections.

Each tube was wrapped with patterned paper, embellished with trim across the bottom and then the bottom secured with machine stitching.  Holes were punched in the sides of each tube and handles were formed using some wired pom pom trim I had in my stash.

I piled on stickers and paper cuts using the Documented collection.  The fun papers are from the Fabulous and Year-o-graphy Designer Cardstock collections and the pinks and creams tie in so perfectly with the vintage feel I love from the Documented collection.

Of course....no project is complete without a little card to go along with it...

Each card coordinates with a different treat holder, all that's left are the treats and the special someone to share them with!

Below is a list of the Simple Stories products I used so you can create your own.

Thank you for visiting!

Melis

 

{Simple} Gifts and Cards Supplies Used:

Documented 6x6 Paper Pad #2301

Documented 12x12 Fundamental Cardstock Stickers #2302

Documented 12x12 Expression Cardstock Stickers #2303

Fabulous Pink Flower/Ledger Designer Cardstock #2116

Fabulous Bingo Cards/Stripes Designer Cardstock #2121

Year-o-graphy Pink/Ledger Designer Cardstock #1921

 

 

button bits revisited...

Thank goodness for buttons...I have loved them since I was tiny and remember sitting on the floor sorting through my mother's button tin while she was sewing something pretty or mending something that needed her love and attention.   The button tin had a special smell to it and I found new treasures every time it was opened.  

This month the Sr. Design Team challenge at Papertrey Ink is to use any of the Button Bits stamp sets.  I love each of these sets and couldn't settle on just one, so I've used images or sentiments from each of them and combined my love of buttons with that of glitter and felt.

This first card uses an image from the Baby Button Bits stamp set and a sentiment from the Everyday Button Bits stamp set.  I used the Banner Builder stamp set on each card as well.  

The Movers & Shakers:  Poppers die got a work out on these projects as I used it and Harvest Gold felt to create little roses to embellish the images along with Sweet Blush buttons.

Each card also uses Sweet Blush cardstock, Vintage Cream Grosgrain, Aqua Mist, Spring Moss, Harvest Gold, and Classic Kraft ink.  This card uses an image and sentiment from the Everyday Button Bits set. 

Lastly, an image from the Baby Button Bits set was used here along with a sentiment from the Bloomin' Button Bits set.  I enhanced each image using Prisma glitter and each image is matted on a die cut with the Limitless Layers 2 1/4" circles....love these sweet dies.  

The other Sr. Design Team members have projects to share with you as well:

*Betsy Veldman
*Maile Belles
*Dawn McVey
*Heather Nichols 

Thank you so much for stopping by.  

Melis

penny candy...

Happy weekend everyone!  I realize that as you are reading this, your weekend will have come to and end, but I hope it was a wonderful one.  As the weather is warming up here, we are spending more and more time outside enjoying the perfectly good temps before they climb to the point where it is a little too uncomfortable to be outside much.   My little one loves for me to tell her stories about myself as a child each night before I tuck her in for good and say goodnight.  Tonight's story was about what I would spend my few, treasured coins on now and then...bits of change I would earn from doing special tasks around the house without being asked, such as straightening my dad's shoes.  I remember my mom taking my little brother and I on errands and if we had to stop for gas, she would always stop at a station called Thrifty C.  It was tiny, but had the sweetest, friendliest little lady working inside always.  I think her name may have been Lois.  Anyway, she had rows and rows and jars and jars of gummies, bubble gum, tootsie rolls, etc. and they were each a penny.  So, she'd hand us a little brown bag and we'd get to think over all of the goodies we wanted and make our careful selections of what we were going to spend our coins on.  It's so funny that such a simple thing would stay with me for so long...ahhhh, the simple, carefree days of childhood.  I often wonder what my little one will remember.  Goodness, I love that little lady.

Today's project was created for Frost it Pink.  I created a bundle of party packets using Papertrey Ink's Seed Packet die as my base and then piled on the brights, the happys, the fruitys, and the sparkles!

I love bold, bright colors, mixed with vintage touches, images, colors, and distressing...kind of fun for a change.

Before I head, I have a yummy recipe to share with you...I think you'll love it as much as I do.  This recipe I will be keeping and using for years to come!  I found it on m very most favorite recipe site called Six Sister's Stuff and they are called M&M Samoa Blondies!  I didn't have any M&M's floating about, so I just used semi-sweet chocolate chips and holy cow!  Just a heavenly, little treat!

Enjoy your Monday and thanks for your visit and sweet comments!
Melis

 

Party Packets Supplies Used:

InLinkz.com

be happy...

Good morning.  Today I have a fresh and fruity card set to share with you inspired by a sweet photo found at Emma's Paperie.  

I have used oodles of my favorite Dear Lizzy Neapolitan products on these cards along with some Queen & Co. Washi Tape, Cosmo Cricket tags, Prima flowers, and My Mind's Eye paper.

A complete supply list can be found HERE at Emma's Paperie.

(lexiphilia)

 

Enjoy your day!

Melis

into the sunset...

She's getting so comfy in the saddle.  Her daddy has been taking her on lots of rides and little by little letting her take the reigns all by herself and she is SO proud of herself.  I tag along and snap shots of the two buddies...it warms my heart and soul I tell you.

Last night the sun was just setting by the time we got ready to ride and I loved the soft glow that spread across the land...she always looks so pretty in the softness of evening.

The chickens were happy to roam freely last night too.  This is one of my favorite little hens.  Sierra named her Sunshine and the name suits her perfectly.  She's sweet and friendly and lays the prettiest pale green eggs.  

Today I have a fun and fresh project to share with you created for the Simple Stories blog.  I love all of their sweet collections and the rustic, worn, aged look that accompanies each collection, but couldn't resist using the new Fabulous collection first.  I love the color combos and the patterns...I'm always lured in my gingham!

I created a card set using paper, memorabilia pockets, and cardstock stickers from Simple Stories.  The scrunched seam binding is from Memriemare and My Craft Spot.

My blog post can be found HERE along with more details about this project!  There is a new project posted on the Simple Stories blog just about every day, so if you need a little inspiration boost, you might want to make a visit each morning.

 

Thank you for stopping by!

Melis

 

healing packet...

Hello friends!  Happy new week to you all.  Today's project satisfies my craving for sweet, soft, subtle colors that I am always so drawn to.  It seems that I tend to shy away from creating anything sympathy related and so for my project today I focused a bit on that theme and created a healing packet filled with stamped tickets with healing sentiments, tags, and gentle little bits and bobs, images, and elements to help lift the soul.  

I used the Prima Songbird collection once again, Melissa Frances cardstock stickers and resin, My Craft Spot scrunched seam binding, and Maya Road organza roses and pleated velvet flowers.

I used Papertrey Ink's Seed Packet die and Pink Paislee's London Market paper to create the packet.  

The Just the Ticket die and stamp set were also used along with the Healing Touch and Blooming Button Bits stamp sets.  

The vintage image is from the Melissa Frances 5th Avenue Sticker book and the satin wings can be found at Memrie Mare.  

And, one more before I get busy for the day...I created this card to play along with my own challenge posted on the Papertrey Ink forum, that of shaking up your style and creating a card out of your normal style.  So, for me, that meant going the clean and simple route and controlling the amount of STUFF I love to pile on my cards.  It was a hard challenge for me...I sure love the clean and simple cards that others create, but think I had better leave it up to them from now on :) I used Papertrey Ink's Baby Button Bits, Background Basics:  Chevron Stripes and Hearts, Say it With Style, and the Signature Series:  Mini Cupcake stamp sets.   

 

Have a wonderful day!
Melis 

mother i love you...

What a beautiful Saturday!  My husband is home, we're working on to-do lists around the house that never seem to end, cleaning, getting dirty, riding the horse, baking, getting a sunburn, and just enjoying our Saturday together.  

I've got mothers on my mind as Mother's Day is just around the corner.  I have the sweetest mama in the world and think of her always.  I would not be who I am today without her, and I love her for all of the wonderful memories I get to hold close to my heart this day.  I think of her as I create and go about making my home a happy, loving little haven.  Today's card was created for Frost it Pink.  I used lots of beautiful My Mind's Eye papers and products as well as fun Maya Road goodies, and glitter of course.  I've included a supply list at the bottom of this post in case you feel like doing a little shopping.

I've got Vanilla Macadamia Nut cookies in the oven and, we're having kabobs on the BBQ and banana squash left over from last year's harvest.  Hope your Saturday has been wonderful too!

Melis

 

I Love You Mother Supplies Used:

Lost & Found II Blush Princess Paper

Lost & Found II Sweet Bouquet Paper

Lost & Found II Blush Beautiful Girl Brads

Maya Road Alterable Canvas Flowers

Maya Road Mini Chipboard Cameos Set

Maya Road Rose Organza Tea Garden Trim

Maya Road Vintage Round Pearl & Hot Pink Heart Trinket Pins

Pink Paislee Nantucket Ephemera

Vanilla Bean Hand Dyed Crinkle Ribbon

 

 

 

 

 

shabby songbird...

It's time again for another Vintage Cafe Card Challenge...I look forward to these challenges so much.  This week's challenge is based on a beautiful sketch you can there.  I pulled out my stash of lovely Prima Songbird paper and embellies and set to work.  By the way, this has to be my very most favorite Prima collection EVER!  It's so shabby and endearing.

I also used Vanilla Bean scrunched seam binding from My Craft Spot, vintage trim, a tea stained tag, a Maya Road trinket pin, and a Melissa Frances rub on.

 

Before I go...a few things I love.

(mandylynne.com)

(lahabitaciondekate)

(thediydish)

I'm ready to nestle in for the night.

Night.

Melis

a day to make you sing...

It seems I have a love for layered, pieced together flowers lately.  I love to cut bunches of them in all shapes, sizes, and mediums, and then have them on hand when I feel like layering.  Today's card uses the new Notched Flowers die from Papertrey Ink along with the Beautiful Blooms II #1 die.  I hand cut the leaves from Simply Chartreuse felt and ran them through my sewing machine before tucking them under the petals.

The stamp sets are Little Bitty Bird Additions and Framed Out #3.

The Daisy Embellishment, Heart and Cloud Washi Tape, Chevron Twill, Kraft Shipping Tag, and trim can be found at Freckled Fawn.  

 

Hope your day is a sweet one!

Melis

saddles and strawberries...

Meet the new guy.

He's very photogenic as you can see.  Loves to nuzzle and wipe his furry, sometimes goopy nose across any clean item you might be wearing.  He loves to get up close and personal....a right in your face kind of guy, which is why this is the best shot I can get of him for the time being.  He's so sweet and lovable...all he asks for is fresh hay, an apple or two once in a while, and a scratch here and there.  He fits perfectly under Sierra's Great Grandpa Boley's saddle too.  He needs to be nursed back to health which is one reason Cisco gets to come and stay with us for a while, not to mention the little girl who blooms and grows when it comes to animals and the special connection she has with them.  He is so good for her and she is the extra sweet medicine he needs.  Before she's even dressed in the morning, she heads right outside in her jammies and coat to feed him, talk to him, and spend Sierra time with him.  One of my favorite things to do each morning is watch her through the window, when she doesn't know I'm there, talking to him, holding up her cat to introduce the two of them, and just be her sweet, wonderful self. Thank you to her Gramps for bringing him up to us.

Well, I knew it was going to happen...my love affair with the Strawberry Patch and Strawberry Patch Sentiments stamp sets.  I knew I wouldn't be able to put them down.  I added a challenge to the forum at Papertrey Ink last week, and am just know getting around to finishing it myself.  You can see the darling inspiration project I used which was created by Danielle Flanders and try it out for yourself if you'd like HERE.  

I used Hibiscus Burst, Pure Poppy, and Simply Chartreuse ink and the Strawberry Patch, Filigree Border, and Small Scallop Border dies here as well.  

The Heart and Cloud Washi Tape can be found at Freckled Fawn and the chipboard flower is from Cosmo Cricket.  By the way...Freckled Fawn has oodles of the cutest new things in stock and ready to take home right now.  I think I'll do a little shopping today, how about you?

Thanks for visiting!

Goodbye for now.

Melis

papertrey ink april...

Have you had enough of me this week?  Today I bring you oodles of projects showcasing the new release items from Papertrey Ink.  We'll start with this first card set using the Trendy Tree Tops stamp set and coordinating dies.  

This next card uses the Tagged Sentiments and Background Basics:  Postmarks stamp sets.

More Background Basics:  Postmarks here (this is one set I'm sure to wear right out) and also the Think Big Favorites #15 set used here as well.

This fun card uses the Background Basics:  Postmarks set along with the Framed Out #3 set and coordinating die.

The Baby Face stamp set is used here along with the new Script Alpha die collection.

Love, love the new Tweet Talk stamp set shown here along with more Background Basics:  Postmarks.

And lastly, the Heart-2-Heart #3 stamp set is used on this card....another fun and favorite set of mine.

Thank you for stopping by, each and every time!  I have supply lists ready to go for you below.  Please email me with any questions you may have.

Here are some beautiful links for you to follow where you'll find more creations from the other design team members:

• Heather Nichols
• Dawn McVey
• Lisa Johnson
• Betsy Veldman
• Ashley Cannon Newell
• Maile Belles
• Jessica Witty
• Erin Lincoln
• Danielle Flanders
• Mish Wooderson
• Debbie Olson

 

Hello You Card Set

Papertrey Ink Supplies Used:
Stamps:
Trendy Tree Tops
Ink:
Classic Kraft, Scarlet Jewel, Ripe Avocado
Cardstock:
Rustic Cream and Kraft
Accents:
Classic Kraft and Summer Sunrise buttons, Rustic Cream Button Twine
Tools:
Trendy Tree Tops die collection

Other Supplies Used:
Simple Stories paper
Vintage trim

The 1 For Me Card

Papertrey Ink Supplies Used:
Stamps:
Background Basics: Postmarks, Tagged Sentiments, Garden Variety
Ink:
Canyon Clay, Aqua Mist, Hibiscus Burst
Accents:
Harvest Gold, Simply Chartreuse, and Aqua Mist felt, Sweet Blush button
Cardstock:
Rustic Cream, Sweet Blush, and Simply Chartreuse
Tools:
Notched Flowers, Movers & Shakers Poppers, XL Rick Rack border, Buttoned Up #2, and Rosie Posie dies

Other Supplies Used:
Echo Park and Simple Stories paper
Maya Road trinket pin

Hello Sunshine Card

Papertrey Ink Supplies Used:
Stamps:
Think Big Favorites #15, Just the Ticket, and Background Basics: Postmarks
Ink:
Summer Sunrise, Fresh Snow, and Hibiscus Burst
Cardstock:
Sweet Blush, Rustic Cream, and Simply Chartreuse
Tools:
Rick Rack Border, Just the Ticker, Notched Flowers, Buttoned Up #2, Beautiful Blooms II #1, Beautiful Blooms II #2 dies
Accents:
Hibiscus Burst felt, Simply Chartreuse grosgrain, Summer Sunrise button

Other Supplies Used:
American Crafts and Glitz Designs paper
Queen & Co. Washi Tape
Vintage trim
EK Success trinket pin

You Are My Sunshine Card

Papertrey Ink Supplies Used:
Stamps:
Framed Out #3 and Background Basics: Postmarks
Cardstock:
Rustic Cream and Melon Berry Stripes
Ink:
Lemon Tart, Melon Berry, and Berry Sorbet
Tools:
Filigree Border, Frames Out #3, Happy Trails, and Edgers #1 dies
Accents:
Aqua Mist and Berry Sorbet buttons, Harvest Gold Grosgrain

Other Supplies Used:
We R Memory Keepers paper
Melissa Frances gem

4 Baby Card

Papertrey Ink Supplies Used:
Stamps:
Baby Face
Ink:
Classic Kraft
Cardstock:
Rustic Cream and Sweet Blush
Accents:
Sweet Blush button
Tools:
Medium Scallop, Limitless Layers 2 1/4" Oval, Script Alpha, By the Numbers dies

Other Supplies Used:
Prima paper
Copic Markers

Under the Weather Card

Papertrey Ink Supplies Used:
Stamps:
Tweet Talk and Background Basics: Postmarks
Ink:
Dark Chocolate, Spring Moss, Canyon Clay, and Ripe Avocado
Cardstock:
Aqua Mist and Rustic Cream
Tools:
Cloud 1 & 2 and Heart Prints dies
Accents:
White Silk ribbon and Summer Sunrise button

Other Supplies Used:
Copic markers
Doodlebug gems
Simple Stories paper
My Mind's Eye paper

Your Thoughtfulness...Card

Papertrey Ink Supplies Used:
Stamps:
Heart-2-Heart #3
Cardstock:
Kraft and Rustic Cream
Ink:
Smokey Shadow, Dark Chocolate, and True Black
Accents:
Vintage Cream buttons
Tools:
Heart-2-Heart and Heart Border dies

Other Supplies Used:
Simple Stories paper and sticker
Melissa Frances adhesive pearl

garden variety continues...

Here I am again with another Papertrey Ink group post.  This time we are highlighting the new Garden Variety II and Year of Flowers Titles stamp sets...both so springy and fun.  Our assignment was to find an inspiration piece and then create a project inspired by it using these sets and the new Seed Packet Frame 2 die.

I have long admired French General.  Their site is the loveliest of lovelies.  It is the kind of beautiful that makes me dream, takes me away to a lovely place I have only dreamed about, and the kind of beautiful that inspires me to no end.  I had to use the sweet inspiration photo above for my project today.  I love the button cards in their elongated shape and with several different elements attached...do you love it as much as I do?

I used the Seed Packet and Seed Packet Frame 2 dies to create a pocket to hold my own handmade button cards made with the Just the Ticket Border die and stamp set.   The packet was created using patterned paper while the Seed Packet Frame 2 die was cut from Rustic Cream cardstock and is stamped with Hibiscus Burst and Classic Kraft ink.  

The tickets are cut from Kraft, Sweet Blush, and Rustic Cream cardstock and stamped white Vintage Cream, Classic Kraft, and Hibiscus Burst. Wouldn't a pocket full of these handmade tickets make such a fun gift for a crafter?  I love sweet, little, unique embellishments. 

All it takes are some of Papertrey Ink's vintage buttons in White & Cream mix and Sweet Blush, a bit of Rustic Cream Button Twine, and a few of your favorite vintage buttons and you have yourself a sweet bundle to present to someone crafty.

For the front of this seed packet, I added a layer of Classic Kraft felt behind the packet and just inserted a few trinket pins to go along with the theme of my project.  The flower on the front was created using the new Notched Flowers die, Buttoned Up #2 die, patterned paper, vintage trim, and a button, and then of course a strip of Vintage Cream satin ribbon was wrapped around and tied in a big bow to finish things off.

For my second project I created a fun gift tag using the new Garden Variety II, Year of Flowers Titles, Seed Packet Frame 2 die, and Seed Packet die.  I thought this would be a fun way to present a little note to a friend...a mini clothespin attached to a wooden spool wound with New Leaf Baker's Twine.  

I used the Year of Flowers Titles stamp across the bottom by adding "Chrysanthemum" stamped in Classic Kraft ink, the Seed Packet Frame 2 die was created with Sweet Blush cardstock and stamped in Pure Poppy ink, and the beautiful image from the new stamp set was stamped using Classic Kraft, Pure Poppy, and Aqua Mist.  I used more images from the new Garden Variety II set and stamped them on a Tiny Tag attached to the bottom of the packet.

Sweet, easy, fun to create, and a little something that could remain on display.

 

Thank you again for your visit!  Now, off to see what the other designers have waiting for you to enjoy:

• Nichole Heady
• Heather Nichols
• Dawn McVey
• Lisa Johnson
• Betsy Veldman
• Ashley Cannon Newell
• Maile Belles
• Jessica Witty
• Erin Lincoln
• Danielle Flanders

Have a wonderful day!

Melis

strawberry patch...

Welcome to Papertrey Ink's first group post of April!  This is a berry long post with berry many photos...so lets get started!  Mish Wooderson and Nichole Heady have teamed up once again and have created the sweetest stamp set yet called Strawberry Patch!  I love so many things about this set and coordinating dies.  

This first project uses the Strawberry Patch stamp set, coordinating dies, and the Berry Basket die.  It is filled with items for a crafty friend.

The basket was cut using just two sheets of Kraft cardstock.  It is such a cinch to assemble which allows more time for the fun stuff!

The front of the Berry Basket is embellished with the new Perfect Patches die cut from Classic Kraft felt as the bottom layer and a stamped Vintage Cream die for the top layer...I LOVE, love, love Perfect Patches!

First up in the crafting kit is a pincushion embellished with a handmade flower cut using the new Notched Flowers die collection, the Strawberry Patch die collection, and the Sending You and Heart Border dies.   

Sweet Blush Topnotch Twill was used to wrap around the pincushion and Classic Kraft, Pure Poppy, and Simply Chartreuse felt were used in the dies. 

I used the new Seed Packet Frame 2 die and Seed Packet dies to create a pocket to hold scissors.  The packet is stamped with Simply Chartreuse, True Black, and Pure Poppy ink.

I stamped up a batch of Tiny Tags using the new Strawberry Patch stamp set...strawberries in all sizes are available.  This tag is attached to a small wooden spool which holds Pure Poppy Baker's Twine.

Another little tag attached to the top of the scissor pocket...

A fun little embellishment for the crafter using the Strawberry Patch and Button Card die collections and the Strawberry Patch and Button Boutique stamp sets.

I tied a strip of Sweet Blush Grosgrain at the top of the button card and clipped another stamped Tiny Tag to the top using a mini clothespin.

A mini stash of fabrics, Simply Chartreuse felt, and Copics are tucked snuggly inside the Berry Basket as well with a stamped Tiny Tag added as an accent.  A fun gift for a crafting friend!  What will you make using your Berry Basket die?  It's the cutest thing on earth I tell you.

On this card I used the Berry Basket die again and cut it to fit the front of the card and simply stitched down the sides and across the bottom to create a pocket.

I love the solid and outlined images of all of the elements included in the Strawberry Patch stamp set.  If you're a color-Copic-lover, you'll love the versatility of this set.  Here I used the Strawberry Patch die collection and my Copics to color in this juicy berry.  It is centered on dies cut from the Limitless Layers 1 3/4" Circle die collection.

Mmmm...I've decided that Kraft cardstock, Classic Kraft ink, and Vintage Cream ink and so delicious together.  I used the Tag Sale #5 die and stamped my berries onto sheet music.  I was curious to see how it would turn out once I added Copics and love the look.   And, I can't forget to mention the sweet sentiments included in this stamp set.  

Next up is a little home decor piece using a wood block that I painted and distressed.  I added patterned paper, a stamped Perfect Patches and Strawberry Patch die, Simply Chartreuse felt, Pure Poppy Baker's Twine, Ripe Avocado Grosgrain, and a stamped Tiny Tag.  Pure Poppy ink makes the most delicious looking berries I've decided.

The Perfect Patch die is stamped with an image from the Strawberry Patch stamp set using Berry Sorbet ink...such a yummy contrast with the Pure Poppy berry.

Next up is a card and matching envelope using this set with a new color combination.  

I used Melon Berry, Spring Moss, and Simply Chartreuse ink, Simply Chartreuse, Sweet Blush, and Vintage Cream cardstock, the new Limitless Layers 3.5" Ovals die collection, Perfect Patches, and Strawberry Patch dies.  

The patterned paper is the Simply Chartreuse Gingham and I added a Melon Berry Grosgrain bow to the front.  

I cut a small heart from Vintage Cream felt using the Heart Prints die and added it to the front of the berry to add to the sentiment of the card.  

A strip of Simply Chartreuse Gingham cut using the Small Scallop Border die was added to the flap of the envelope along with more images from the Strawberry Patch stamp set.  

And lastly, I couldn't resist a Lavender Moon berry!  It sits on dies cut from the Perfect Patches die collection and is stamped with Autumn Rose and Simply Chartreuse.  I trimmed down a Double Ended Banner die cut from Simply Chartreuse felt and added it behind the berry to add one more layer.  This may be my most favorite sentiment of the set...today anyway :)

I used the Banner Borders die and patterned paper across the top to bring in just a bit more of the green I love so much.  Just a fun card set to end with, but so many more ideas ready to roll with this sweet new stamp set.  The Strawberry Patch stamp set and all of the coordinating dies you've seen here will be available for purchase on April 15th.

The other girls have oodles of ideas ready to share with you and I can't wait to see them for myself:

• Nichole Heady
• Heather Nichols
• Dawn McVey
• Lisa Johnson
• Betsy Veldman
• Ashley Cannon Newell
• Maile Belles
• Jessica Witty
• Erin Lincoln
• Danielle Flanders

Thanks so much for your visit!

Melis

fresh blooms...

Pheeew....what a busy week!  I don't mean to ignore my little blog, but I've had my head down and have been working and creating like crazy.  Lots to share with you very soon, but for today, I'm forcing myself to sit and post a bit.  Things around my house are looking so fresh and spring-y.  I am learning to find the beauty in this old, desert wasteland of mine, ha!  My husband's eyes light up with all that surrounds us and I am learning to see the why he loves it so much here.   The Indian Paintbrush are popping up everywhere, wildflowers are making their way out of the earth and up towards the sun, even some buds beginning to open on our trees, and I can't forget to mention the baby calves that sprinkle the fields on our drive into town.  We try to count them , but there are too many to number.  I love all of theses sweet signs of spring and am so inspired by them...something about the freshness, the new life, and the hope that spring brings.  

This first card was created for Emma's Paperie with My Mind's Eye as our focus.  I LOVE My Mind's Eye.  What an inspiring company!  It was fun to stock up and create a little something using their products.  

You can find a complete supply list and instructions HERE on the Emma's Paperie blog.

Lastly, a fresh and fruity number.  I love mixing in the weathered woodgrain patterned paper from My Mind's Eye with soft elements such as a Freckled Fawn doily, Prima flower, and Memrie Mare scrunched seam binding.  I love the combination of rough and weathered with gentle, soft accents.  The Black Heart Lace Washi Tape is also from Freckled Fawn and I love the punch of boldness it adds.  The sentiment and floral cardstock stickers are from the C'est La Vie Melissa Frances collection and I used Papertrery Ink's A Little Argyle stamp set along with the Button Card die to add lots of layers.  Definitely a hodge podge of what was scattered on my desk, but I love left-overs!  They inspire me.

Have a beauty!

Melis

 

easter wishes...

Sorry for the delay in announcing the winner of the Freckled Fawn Gift Certificate.  It's been a wonderful, busy, lazy, happy, relaxed Spring Break and I'm sad to see it coming to an end.  There are Polly Pockets, Barbies, Pet Shops, and little signs of my bean everywhere and I love the messes, the happy distractions, and the sweet gift of having here around all day.  Summer break will be here before we know it!

The winner of the Freckled Fawn Gift Certificate is.................

BARB MURPHEY!

Barb, please email me and I'll make sure your Gift Certificate finds its way to you!

Thank you all for participating.  

I created a few new wall hangings using the Sizzix 3-D Fringed Flower die and vintage images from Iralamija and Digital Paper.  The scrunched seam binding can be purchased at My Craft Spot.

 

Enjoy your Saturday and Happy Easter!

Melis

new memories...

Well, we did it!  A monumental occasion around here...one that makes our hearts grow and we are so happy for a sweet, new memory.  I had talked to my little one before we had her hair cut about donating her lovely locks to help another child, so to all of you who asked and encouraged, that was already in the works.  Thank you for your lovely suggestions.  She looks so completely irresistible.  I am smitten with her.  She is smitten with herself.  And, her daddy...he hasn't really said much to me about it, so I'm just letting him ease into it, but just tonight I heard him talking on the phone to his brother and he was going on and on about her looking as cute as a button and how much he loved her sweet, new haircut.  Too cute and tender.  Just when we thought we couldn't love her more....

Today, in honor of all things girly, how about a shabby, frilly, glittery card?  I created this as I start on my new adventure with the Vintage Cafe Card Challenge blog.  Our challenge this week was simply to use pearls. This girl loves pearls, so I had a fun time with it.  I used Papertrey Ink's Wildflower Garden and Bitty Background Blocks stamp sets, and my favorite die cut chipboard technique including painting, stamping, sanding, distressing with ink, and adding glitter.  I used the Large Scallop Border die and the Flower Fusion #11 die.  

Be sure to stop by the Vintage Cafe Card Challenge blog to see what the other designers have created.  I know I can't wait to see their creations!

 

Happy weekend!

Melis

freckled fawn...

Hi everyone!  Today I have some exciting news to share...a couple of items actually.  The first you'll notice at the top of this post.  I have been asked to join the Freckled Fawn Design Team and I am so excited.  I think their products are the sweetest bits of craftiness and they inspire me so much.  Today, I am participating in a blog hop/giveaway announcing the new design team members and we have each been asked to create a little something for you using items from Freckled Fawn.

Freckled Fawn is full of beautiful Washi Tape and I have been having so much fun using it.  I used my favorite Heart and Cloud Washi Tape on the card above along with a doily and trim, also found at Freckled Fawn.  

Trims, tapes, doilies, ribbons, labels, tags, etc....so many sweet and unique items can be found there.

Another of my favorite items found at Freckled Fawn are the Daisy Embellishments.  They just make me smile looking at them.

In order to properly celebrate Freckled Fawn's first Design Team, each designer is giving away a $5.00 gift card to the shop along with another, larger giveaway found on the Freckled Fawn blog.  All you have to do is tell me what your favorite product found at Freckled Fawn is.  I know I can't wait for the Wild Flower Washi Tape to make its appearance! 

Leave a comment on this post and I will announce the winner on Saturday, April 8th!

Be sure to visit the blogs of the other designers and enter to win their giveaway.  These girls are amazing!  I am so happy to get to know them better and enjoy their work.

Marcy Penner

Anna-Maria Wolniak

Lastly, while you're reading this, I am out of town, taking my little one to see her Grandpa and Grandma.  My little bean informed me today that she is ready for some change, because a girl needs change...her words.  So, my mom and I are taking her to get her hair cut.  You might be wondering what the big deal is...well, her hair goes all the way down to her bottom...I LOVE her hair and love doing all sorts of things with it, and we're going with a drastic change here in this little 8 year olds life...she wants a bob.  So, off goes about 14 inches or so!  Her daddy is having a very hard time with it.  Me, I'm excited and can't wait to see her sweet, blue eyes peeking out from her new do!

Have a wonderful few days.

Melis 

monday with...

My little one...home on Spring Break and I love it! We are super low-key and relaxed around here without too many plans other than a trip to see Grandpa and Grandma later in the week.  For now though, lots of doing whatever we feel like doing.  

I have added a challenge to the forum at Papertrey Ink if you want to play along sometime when you find you have a minute.  Here is the recipe:

 Create a card or tag using the following ingredients:

1. A heart
2. Birthday themed
3. Scallops
4. A background stamp
5. Buttons

 

Easy and fun...no stress, pressure, or deadline, just create because it's good for you and makes you happy!

My card uses Papertrey Ink's Background Basics:  Wrought Iron and 2012 Birthday Tags stamp sets, Edgers #5,  Limitless Layers 2 1/4" Ovals, and Small Scallop Border die collections.  The paper is from the Dear Lizzy Neapolitan collection, scrunched seam binding from My Craft Spot, and the darling button in the corner...my new favorite thing, is from [a flair for buttons] by my friend Shelley Haganman.  They are so much fun!

 

Happy Monday!
Melis 

Year of Flowers Revisited...

Happy April!  Today I have a fun Spring project for you created for Papertrey Ink's Sr. Design Team Challenge.  We were asked to revisit the Year of Flowers stamp sets and create something new to share with you.  I love this series of stamp sets...each one so beautiful and detailed.  I chose to use the Year of Flowers:  Violets set as this flower reminds me of my Grandma Haslam who always had these lovely, delicate flowers growing in her house.  I remember their deep, rich purple and the feel of their soft, fuzzy leaves. 

I used Papertrey Ink's medium glassine bags and die cut the top using the Small Scallop Border Die.  I then broke out my silver embossing powder and set to work transforming the glassine bags by stamping the violet image using the VeraMark Watermark Stamp Pad and embossing powder.  I haven't ever tried this technique before on a glassine bag, so I was excited to see how beautifully it turned out.   

I then used the Limitless Layers 2 1/4" Oval Die Collection and created tags for the front of the bags.  Once again I used the VersaMark Watermark Stamp Pad and this time Stampendous Winter Wonderland Opaque embossing powder.  The sentiments used on both tags are from the Year of Flowers Collections Stamp Set.    

For this first bag I die cut bookprint paper using the Bloom Builders #3 die to create a  handmade embellishment.  I topped it with a button cut using Vintage Cream felt and the Buttoned Up #2 die.  

I created another handmade embellishment for this bag using the Loopsy Daisy die, bookprint, Vintage Cream felt, the Heart Border die, and the Beautiful Blooms II #3 die.  For the center of the flower, I rolled the felt border cut from the Heart Border die and turned it upside down so the pointed ends were showing.  

A bit of vintage trim tucked into the flower finished it off ...such a fun flower to make!

The vintage images are from Digital Paper and were printed here at home.  I then used the Tag Sale #1 and Tag Sale #6 dies and created tags from the digital images.  

Thanks so much for visiting.  The other Sr. Design Team members have projects to share with you as well.

Betsy Veldman
Maile Belles
Dawn McVey
Heather Nichols

Before I go, I wanted to tell you about a beautiful Russian challenge blog I am happy to be part of called the Vintage Cafe Card Challenge blog.  For all of you shabby, vintage lovers out there, this is a perfect place to come and be inspired and to play along with the challenges.  I can't wait to get started!

Melis

jars and stars...

So crazy about jars...I always have been.  Think of all of the roads they have traveled, the love they hold, and what they represent to the heart of the home.  Homemade preserves, filled with love and hard work, simplicity, sacrifice, perspective, grandmothers and mothers, nourishing souls and tummies all at once.  It's no wonder I love them and am fascinated by them and keep getting drawn in by their homespun qualities.

This little card may look familiar as the original was one of my favorites.  I gave it a bit of an update with different colors and using a different sentiment found in the Super Stars stamp set.  I love remaking cards when I find myself stumped...it's a great way to get the creative juices flowing again.

I also used the Friendship Jar stamp set and coordinating dies, Super Stars border die, My Craft Spot scrunched seam binding, Doodlebug Lily White Sugar Coating, and My Mind's Eye papers.

The sentiment is stamped using my new favorite color, Classic Kraft...what did I ever do without this shabby color!

The Dear Lizzy Neapolitan collection is another favorite right now as it features the sweetest mason jars filled with hearts, stars, etc.  You can find this collection of papers and embellishments at Emma's Paperie.

The sentiment here was stamped using the Little Bitty Bird stamp set with the stitched heart from the Tiny Tags set.  

And, lastly today I have one more card to share with you which was created for Emma's Paperie and focuses on stamping.  You can find a complete supply list HERE at Emma's.  

Thanks for stopping by!

Melis

welcoming spring...

I LOVE spring and all that breezes in with it.  It just seems that it doesn't quite last long enough, so hang in there with me while I share a few more spring projects.  I'm getting my fix before we're off and running toward another season and holiday :)

I created a few wall hangings to spread a little spring cheer using many of the same elements as posted yesterday.  

Scrappy, pieced flowers made using the Sizzix 3-D Fringed Flower die, tea stained fabrics, vintage chenille and trim, script paper, and patterned paper.  

The base of each wall hanging is from a Maya Road chipboard album that has been painted, sanded, distressed with ink, and then all of the paper elements Mod Podged to it...love the beautiful finish decoupage adds.

The vintage inspired images are once again from Iralamija's etsy shop and the scrunched seam binding from My Craft Spot.

The lovely Macaroon Francais Cabbage Roses ribbon used on this wall hanging and can be found at Memriemare.

And, a few spring treat bags to share with you, using more Melissa Frances crepe paper tissue garland, patterned paper, doilies, and glitter chipboard.

I found these sweet chenille chicks while in town the other day and snagged a few of them...I couldn't pass them by!

Hope your day has been beautiful!

Melis

 

fresh vintage spring hop...

I have a few new crafty must haves to share with you today, things that I love at the moment and have had so much fun using recently.  First up...the oh, so irresistible Sizzix Fresh Vintage 3-D Fringed Flower die!  She's completely adorable and makes creating layered flowers from all types of mediums so easy.  Today I'm participating in the Sizzix Fresh Vintage Spring Hop and have a Spring banner to share with you using the flower die mentioned above.

I created layers of the fringed flower  using fabric scraps, paper, vintage chenille, burlap, and vintage lace.  I love scrappy, pieced flowers!  The Designer Fabric Buttons used on each pennant is another crafty must have from WRMK.  They are sweet!

Love, love, love vintage inspired Easter images and found these at Iralamija's etsy shop.  

I think Melissa Frances crepe paper tissue garland is my very most favorite crafting must have at the moment...so perfect for spring projects!

I used Maya Road canvas album as my base and oodles of Maya Road trim and piled on the toppings.  The glitter alphabet  is also from Melissa Frances and the scrunched seam binding is from My Craft Spot.

Thanks for your visit!  

Melis

 

 

thneedful things...

Can you guess which movie my little one chose to see yesterday?  Thuch a cute movie, very thweet, and a must watch for the little oneths.  The Lorax was lots of fun...I admit to having a nap in the middle...not uncommon for me, so don't take offense :)  A girl has to have a little snooze whenever she can.

Did you know I love red?  Yep, my most favorite color...splashed here and there throughout my house.  A red berry wreath on my front door...didn't know I would love red on red so much, but I sure can't stop smiling when I see it.  My old, weathered bench in my bedroom with my red wire basket sitting on top, holding a lap quilt I made for my little one when she was a babe.  I made her birth-mother a larger, matching one...very tender, so we keep the bitty quilt close to our hearts.

And, my new Oats jar!  I found it yesterday and was so excited.  My mother and father-in-law are always giving us thoughtful things to help us with our preparedness and food storage.  This year for Christmas they gave me a Marga Hand Mill and 50 pound bag of Oat Groats.  All I have to say is that I use this little contraption all of the time to grind fresh oatmeal.  It tastes so much better freshly milled.  I love the oats most in oatmeal chocolate chip cookies...delish.  Anyway, back to the jar...I have stored most of my groats in a sealed bucket for future use, but wanted to have a good amount on hand, ready to grind when needed, so I was happy as can be when I found this beautiful jar yesterday...it's huge and lovely and RED!

My chandelier over my kitchen table...with stripe-y shades and red berries.  My husband picked this out for me...I will love it forever.

And, lastly...have you tried Dove's Coconut Cream Milk Chocolate Eggs?  Mmmm...you deserve them you know...they are a heavenly treat!

 

And, before I go, I have a card to share with you created using a digital image found at Iralamija's etsy shop.  

I also used another die cut chipboard piece using the Button Card and Heart Prints dies from Papertrey Ink.  This one is painted with pink acrylic paint and then stamped with the Bitty Background Blocks stamp.  

I used Papertrey Ink's Friendship Jar Spring Fillers as well, Copic markers, Vanilla Bean scrunched seam binding from My Craft Spot, and WRMK paper.

Enjoy your day!

Melis

tips & tricks...

**Edited to add:  Many of you have asked where I buy my chipboard and what thickness it is, so here are the details!  I use thin chipboard, not the heavy duty weight.  The thin weight cuts just wonderfully well using Papertrey Ink dies and my Sizzix Big Shot.  I haven't tried it in my Cuttlebug, but I have a feeling it would work just fine as well.  I don't buy my chipboard, I just save it from packaging, but you can purchase some thin chipboard HERE.  Please let me know if you have any other questions.  

Today I've got my first ever Papertrey Ink newsletter article to share with you and it's all about chipboard tips and tricks.  Chipboard has to be my absolute favorite medium to work with, my first love!  It's so fun to shabby up, make it grungy, elegant, whimsical, playful, clean, graphic, or leave it bare...you name it.  

These projects use several different techniques to transform chipboard including:D

• die-cutting
• stamping
• machine stitching
• painting
• distressing
• embossing
• applying glitter

To start with, I die-cut two tags from a sheet of chipboard using a couple of different Papertrey Ink dies including the Tag Sale #1 and #6 dies.  After they were die cut, I then embossed them using the Wrought Iron Impression plate.  Now comes the fun part!  

The next step is adding paint.  I love how it skips a few impressions here and there and fills in other areas creating a lovely, aged appearance.

Here you can see the very subtle embossing left from the Impression Plate.  Isn't it pretty?  

Now for the stamping.  I like to stamp directly on the chipboard before I sand the edges so that part of the stamping is also removed with the paint...gives is a bit more of an authentic look I think.  For this tag, I stamped the tag using the It's Official stamp set. The Framed Out #2 die cut is stamped using the Bitty Background Blocks set as well as the heart cut from the Heart Print die.  After stamping, simply distress the edges of your chipboard pieces using sandpaper and then apply ink.  I used Papertrey Ink's Chamomile ink. To finish it off, glitter is always welcome of course and that's what I added here.  I used Krylon Adhesive Spray and a light sprinkling of Doodlebug's Lily White Sugar Coating.

The same techniques were used on this tag. It's so fun to mix and match dies and create your own custom chipboard shapes.  I created a little, puffy, felt heart window by first die cutting chipboard using the Button Card die and then die cutting a heart from the center using the Heart Prints die.  I stitched Vintage Cream felt to the backside, creating a fun little window.

Why stop there, right?  Chipboard lovers...I tell you, once you try cutting chipboard using one die, you'll want to try them all?  It's a crazy addiction.  Below I created a tag for the top of my tag using chipboard and my Tiny Tag die.  

And then, because I love, love, love scallops and think there couldn't possibly be anything cuter than chipboard scallops, I added a row of them to the top of my gift bag using the Medium Scallops Border die.  This row of scallops was stamped using the Background Basics:  Gingham stamp and is topped with a row of felt cut using the Heart Border die.

Once again to recap:

• Die cut chipboard shape
• Emboss if desired
• Paint with acrylic paint
• Stamp
• Sand to distress
• And, don't forget to add glitter! 

So glad you stopped by.  Enjoy your weekend!

Melis

Sweet and Shabby Gift Tags Supplies:

 

InLinkz.com

snapshots...

I've been doing a bit of cleaning out, organizing, and de-cluttering...actually, I still find myself unpacking boxes after 2 years of being in our new home.  The other day I happened across a treasure trove of old projects and snapshots of my little one I had printed from my computer and then tucked away to use at a later date.  I haven't been able to stop looking at them since.  They flood my mind and heart with the sweetest of memories.  I remember these days like they were yesterday and can remember exactly what we were doing, who was there, how she smelled, the sound of her voice and laughter, the feel of her chubby little cheeks against my face, etc.  I'm so thankful for these memories and of the many more we'll make together.  

This is an older project I found in a box, tucked safely away like it was the most precious treasure on earth.  I quickly unwrapped it and have it hanging in my craft room now.  I love attaching photos of my little one on cards...it adds so much heart to the giving and sharing.

I was recently given the opportunity to create with a kit from Scrapkit Studio which gave me the perfect opportunity to use some of the sweet, candid snapshots I had been saving.  If you want to treat yourself to something really special, the kits from Scrapkit Studio are just what you need!  I can't say enough about them.  Each month a new kit is released, each unique and special.  SO much hard work and preparation goes into each one of them as they are packaged up for use.  I didn't have to use my paper trimmer once as everything came pre-cut to fit all of the chipboard pages and pieces.  The kits are filled with die cut shapes, words, double-sided paper, buttons, doilies, stickers, ribbon, trinket pins, Baker's Twine, etc., and step-by-step instructions are included for each page.  I adjusted them just a bit to fit my photos and such, but I loved sitting down for a few hours and having everything ready for me to complete a sweet, memorable project.  

I was able to add my own personal touches to the album too, just to make it my own and in the style that I love creating in.  I added glitter, pom pom trim, distress ink, and machine stitching.  

Here are a few inside shots...I still need to add my journaling, but other than that, this little album is ready for Sierra to enjoy.

I love to see how she's grown and changed but at the same time catch glimpses of how she has stayed the same...same little button nose, full cheeks, blue, blue eyes, and a smile that melts me.

 

Thanks so much for your visit!

My little one and I are off for a day together tomorrow in the city.  I love having dates with her, just the two us.  I let her pick where we eat, what movie we'll see, and just plain spoil her rotten for the day!

Melis

shabby spring...

Such a beautiful day today...springtime is so fresh and sweet.  I'm short on words tonight, but have a few tags to share with you in a soft, spring color palette using many new Melissa Frances items.  For those of you on the search for the new C'est La Vie and Attic Treasures Vol. 3 Collections, Blue Moon Scrapbooking has plenty of these items in stock now.  Happy shopping!

The scrunched seam binding used on these tags can be found at My Craft Spot.  

Happy Spring!

Melis

spring is here...

Despite the snow and the cold that March has brought, spring is here officially! As my little one just mentioned..."No more WINTER!"  I have a quick card set to share with you using a color combination found at Emma's Paperie.  

I LOVE these colors together...they make me melt!  I created a pocket of mini cards using all sorts of spring-ish papers, patterns, colors, and embellishments.  You can find a complete supply list HERE at Emma's Paperie if you want to try some of your own.  

Before I go, I wanted to announce the Paper Smooches winner of the Little Lady stamp set.  I chose a winner randomly, and she is....

Tatiana Castillo!

 Congratulations!  Please email me with your address.  Thank you all for participating!

Melis

shabby tea room birthday wishes...

Happy 2nd Birthday to The Shabby Tea Room.  If you're not familiar with this sweet site, you're in for a treat.  It's filled with beautiful creations from amazing artists, all who have something they love in common...shabby goodness!  I was recently asked to create a birthday card to share with you in celebration of this fun event.   Be sure to read through THIS post to find out about the wonderful sponsored prizes that you can enter to win!  And, if you're ever in for a challenge, The Shabby Tea Room has weekly challenges to help jump start your creativity.  I love their challenges and go there often for inspiration.  Happy Birthday!

This card was created using more FELT flowers die cut using Papertrey Ink dies.  I am hooked on these soft little ladies and think they're so much fun to make, but I think it's the soft feel and texture they add that I love the most.  I've listed the dies and stamps I used below if you want to try your own.  I learned how to make the rolled felt flower from Dawn McVey.  

The creamy Vanilla Bean scrunched seam binding is so delicious....another favorite of mine.  You can find it HERE at My Craft Spot.

The die cut ticket used at the top of this card is from Kaisercraft.  I used more of these beautiful little items on the altered Printers tray below which was created for Emma's Paperie.

Oodles of Kaisercraft goodies used on here along with dimensional stickers from Anna Griffin, May Arts trim, and Melissa Frances appliques mini flashcard, and a broach...I love her broaches.  

You can find all of the supplies I used on this project HERE at Emma's Paperie.

 

Happy Saturday!

Melis

 

Celebrate Your Day card supplies:

InLinkz.com

something special to share...and a giveaway

On March 15th, Paper Smooches  released their newest set called "Little Lady" and I am here today to help promote this sweet set!  This is the fifth stamp set from their new "Kismet collection" .

I have one "Little Lady" stamp set to give away to one lucky person!  You have until midnight on March 18th to leave a comment.  I will post the winner here on Monday, March19th. 

So much to love about this sweet set.  It reminds me of my little one and the ages and stages I have seen her go through thus far.  The images are playful, whimsical, and just endearing.  They make me want to get my stamps out and PLAY!  You'll love it!

For more chances to win...please visit the Paper Smooches Blog and Cristina Kowalczyk.

Thanks for visiting!

Melis

papertrey ink march...

Let's just dive in, shall we?  This was such a fun month of Papertrey Ink releases...I really had an enjoyable time creating with each new set...yep, even the masculine sets!  

This first card uses the new Framed Out #2 stamp set.  I am crazy for it and love the shape of the coordinating die.

For all of you Heart Border Die lovers, I don't know if you've tried this yet or not, but I decided to roll up a strip of felt cut using this border die because I wanted some tiny little roses for this card, and they are CUTE!  You must try it if you haven't already.  I noticed that the pointed end of the hearts look really cute too rolled up like a little bud.  Must try, must try!

Hello There card

Papertrey Ink Supplies Used:

Stamps:
Frames Out #2
Ink:
Aqua Mist and Classic Kraft
Cardstock:
Rustic Cream
Accents:
Vintage Cream and Aqua Mist felt
Tools:
Sending You, Edgers #5, Framed Out #2, and Heart Border dies

Other Supplies Used:
Echo Park paper
Melissa Frances adhesive pearls
scrunched seam binding

Heather Nichols' sweet new Littly Bitty Bird Additions has melted my heart!  I love it...the nest filled with eggs, the polka dot bird wings, the bird houses, and the music notes...all so very fun to stamp with.

Just Hatched Card

Papertrey Ink Supplies Used:
Stamps:
Little Bitty Bird and Little Bitty Bird Additions
Ink:
Pure Poppy, Dark Chocolate, Spring Moss, and Classic Kraft
Cardstock:
Sweet Blush, Rustic Cream
Tools:
Limitless Layers 1 3/4" Circles, Framed Out #2 dies
Accents:
Pure Poppy button, Sweet Blush satin

Other Supplies Used:
American Crafts paper
Echo Park paper
Copic Markers

I'm loving the new On the Links stamp set...truly it's so much fun.  I come from a family of golfers...my dad, all of my brothers, even my cute little mom is an active golfer.  I'm the only odd-ball and would rather drive the cart around and work on my tan :)  Anyway, I created this with my dad in mind.  His birthday is just a few days away, so it was fun to create for him.

Fore Your Birthday Card

Papertrey Ink Supplies Used:
Stamps:
On the Links, A Little Argyle, 2012 Birthday Tags, Tiny Tags
Ink:
Classic Kraft, Aqua Mist, Simply Chartreuse, and Dark Chocolate
Cardstock:
Rustic Cream and Aqua Mist
Tools:
Tag Sale #6, Tiny Tags, and Super Star Border dies
Accents:
Simply Chartreuse Grosgrain, Simply Chartreuse felt, Classic Kraft button

Other Supplies Used:
My Mind's Eye paper
Echo Park paper

Onto another masculine card.  I have very fond memories of my dad's funky, retro, wide ties growing up.  They were totally awesome! I knew starting out that I wanted to try and bring that retro feel into this card...not sure if I achieved it or not, but I had so much fun creating it for him.  You'll love this set!

Do you think it's a sin to use glitter on a card for your dad?  I apologize to all of the manly men out there for doing it, but I couldn't NOT.

I Love You Dad Card

Papertrey Ink Supplies Used:
Stamps:
World's Greatest, Background Basics: Woodgrain
Ink:
Dark Chocolate, Spring Moss
Cardstock:
Rustic Cream
Accents:
Aqua Mist felt
Tools:
Edgers #5, Framed Out #2, World's Greatest, and Button Card

Other Supplies Used:
Echo Park paper
American Crafts buttons

Next up is a card using the new Heart to Heart #2 stamp set, Think Big Favorites #14, and a bit of 2012 Birthday Tags.

Happy Birthday Card

Papertrey Ink Supplies Used:
Stamps:
Think Big Favorites #14, Heart to Heart #2, Tiny Tags, and 2012 Birthday Tags
Ink:
Harvest Gold, Aqua Mist, Classic Kraft, and Melon Berry
Cardstock:
Kraft
Tools:
Super Star Border, Tiny Tags, Heart to Heart #2, and Angled Labels dies
Accents:
Melon Berry Grosgrain, Aqua Mist Satin, and Vintage Cream Grosgrain, Hawaiian Shores button, Harvest Gold felt

Other Supplies Used:
My Mind's Eye paper
Echo Park paper
Kaisercraft gems

This card I made for my mama.  This has been a rough week for her, so she was on my mind when I started creating with the beautiful Background Basics:  Wrought Iron set.  Mother's Day is coming soon and I love this very special day so got a jump start on creating for it.  This new stamp set is BEAUTIFUL!  I love it's shabby, elegant feel.  

I'll try and explain what I did with these flowers.  They were cut using the Frilly Flowers die collection and then I embossed them using the Wrought Iron Impression Plate.  Next I added some Glimmer Mist in S.W.A.K and Silver and it enhanced the embossing just a bit.  I layered them together, curled up the edges and then embellished the center with burlap and layered felt buttons cut using the Buttoned Up #2 die.

Happy Mother's Day Card

Papertrey Ink Supplies Used:
Stamps:
Background Basics: Wrought Iron, Blooming Button Bits
Ink:
Autumn Rose
Tools:
Tag Sale #6 and Frilly Flowers dies, Buttoned Up #2 dies
Cardstock:
Sweet Blush and Linen Vellum
Accents:
Autumn Rose and Vintage Cream felt, Sweet Blush button

Other Supplies Used:
My Mind's Eye paper
Scrunched seam binding
Burlap

Lastly is a little something near and dear to my heart, something created with my little bean in mind.  I used the darling new A Pocketful set on this gift pocket and tag.  I save all of her little tiny jeans.   I just can't part with certain things yet and I have so many memories of her and all of her sweet pockets.  Some of them filled with rocks, dirt, wrappers, grass, notes, candies, treasures, you name it.  The memories are fresh and associated with so many of her things...so I hold onto them and enjoy them in my own way such as this.  I snipped the pockets out of some of her old capris and created a gift bag of sorts.  The size is perfect for candy, fingernail polish, a card, a homemade cookie, etc.  

I created a tag using the Tag Sale #6 die and stamped it with the posies from the set and embellished them with gems.  

I added a die cut pocket and tab and added glitter, trim, and a button to fancy it up just a bit.  The tag was pinned to the pocket using a trinket pin and then with with Tootsie Pops for my lady!

I created a stack of posies using the Buttoned Up #2 die, felt, and Simply Chartreuse Grosgrain.  Simple and so very fun!

Pocket of Love Tag and Gift Pocket

Papertrey Ink Supplies Used:
Stamps:
A Pocketful
Ink:
Raspberry Fizz and True Black
Cardstock:
Sweet Blush and Vintage Cream
Accents:
Vintage Cream and Sweet Blush buttons, Lavender Moon and Ripe Avocado Grosgrain, Vintage Cream and Autumn Rose felt
Tools:
Tag Sale #6, A Pocketful, Buttoned Up #2, Tiny Tags

Other Supplies Used:
Denim pocket
Crate Paper paper
Stickles glitter
Vintage trim
Maya Road trinket pin
Doodlebug gems

 

That's about it for me, but the other designers have plenty of projects waiting for you:

• Heather Nichols
• Dawn McVey
• Lisa Johnson
• Betsy Veldman
• Ashley Cannon Newell
• Maile Belles
• Jessica Witty
• Erin Lincoln
• Danielle Flanders
• Mish Wooderson
• Debbie Olson

 Thanks so much for your visit!

Melis 

super stars!

Hi friends!  Welcome back for another Papertrey Ink group post.  I'm so excited to introduce you to the new Super Stars stamp set.  It's just enchanting, filled with movement, and has the sweetest sentiments.  Nichole's challenges are always so much fun for me to participate in and this was no exception.  She asked the designers to find a photo from Pinterest or any other online source that inspired us to create with this new set.  I created a couple of different projects, so lets get started.

(photo via Pinterest)

When I happened upon this photo, I was instantly inspired. Can there be anything sweeter than a jar full of colorful, shimmery stars?  Not to mention the way the stars appear magical as the colors float out of the jar, up into the sky....sigh, happiness in a jar!

I used the Friendship Jar stamp set and coordinating dies along with the Super Stars stamp set to create a unique way to welcome a new baby.  

A tag created with the Tiny Tag stamp set and coordinating dies, added just the right finishing touch to the jar.

A border of soft, felty stars stitched across the top was created using the new Super Star Border die and Aqua Mist felt.  And, the sentiment...so very sweet.

(photo from Martha Stewart)

My next project was inspired by the above photo which contains a star garland. I love how the stars are draped and connected together and float in place just like they belong there.

I created a simple garland to wrap around the top of a jar by die cutting stars using the Seeing Stars die collection and Vintage Cream cardstock and then stamping them in coordinating colors using an image from the Super Star stamp set.

Next, I just punched a hole at the tip of each star, connected them together using New Leaf Baker's Twine, and wrapped them loosely around the neck of the jar.

I tied a bow on the left and embellished it with a string of stars cut using Aqua Mist felt and the Super Star Border die, and topped it all off with a Sweet Blush button.  So simple.  Now all that's missing are the little hands helping themselves to the Reese's Peanut Butter Eggs.

Thank you again for your visit!  Come back on the 15th as I'll be sharing all of my Papertrey Ink release projects with you then.

I can't wait to pop in and visit the blogs of the other designers.  They are all so creative!

• Nichole Heady
• Heather Nichols
• Dawn McVey
• Lisa Johnson
• Betsy Veldman
• Ashley Cannon Newell
• Maile Belles
• Jessica Witty
• Erin Lincoln
• Danielle Flanders

Happy Wednesday!

Melis

 

Twinkle Little Star Card and Jar Set Supplies Used:

InLinkz.com

birthday bash...

The first Papertrey Ink group post for March is here!  It's time to celebrate birthdays and Papertrey Ink has a wonderful line-up of new sets and products to help get the bash underway.

First up is the new Card Base-ics #1 and #2 dies which are so much fun!  The dies provide a perfect spot to nestle in an invitation.  I used the Parisian Lace Doily die, inserted it into the slots cut from the Card Base-ics die, cut a tag using the Tag Sale #6 die, and stamped it with the new By Invitation stamp set.  

The center of the invitation uses an image from the new 2012 Birthday Tags set.

The doily creates a unique little pocket to hold the tag with all of the party details on it.  You'll find that many of the Mat Stack dies fit perfectly into the slots as well.  Lots of creative fun to be had.

Next up is a pocket card created using the new Edgers #5 Die Collection and embellished with another sweet image from the 2012 Birthday Tags set...such a sucker for gingham!

Another peek at the new Super Star Border Die...you're going to love it!

Inside the pocket card, a coordinating tag is kept, ready to be tied to a pretty package for someone special.  

I was so inspired by Dawn McVey's use of the Movers & Shakers:  Spiral Poppers Die seen HERE on this post, that I had to try one for myself...and was instantly hooked.  These little flowers are so fun and easy to create.  This was created using Vintage Cream Felt and the leaves were cut from burlap using the Sending You die.  

Thanks for visiting!  The other Papertrey Ink designers have created fun projects to share with you as well:

• Nichole Heady
• Heather Nichols
• Dawn McVey
• Lisa Johnson
• Betsy Veldman
• Ashley Cannon Newell
• Maile Belles
• Jessica Witty
• Erin Lincoln
• Danielle Flanders

You're Invited Trio Supplies Used:

InLinkz.com

creative foundations blog hop...

Hey, hey again!  This is my second post for the day.  If you're here for the Papertrey Ink peek, just scroll on down a bit.  

Today I'm so excited to be joining Vicki Boutin and many other artists as we share with you her amazing new book.  I was asked to create a few things for it and have to tell you it was some of the most creative fun I have had as I was pushed out of my comfort zone and challenged to use new techniques.  This book is FILLED to the brim with beautiful and inspiring projects and techniques.  I can only share a peek of one of my projects with you...there's so much more inside the pages of Creative Foundations.

The amazing Wendi Vecchi was the stop before mine...(goodness, I have loved her forever!)

And, Vicki Boutin is the next and final stop and where you can also find a list of all who are participating.  Be sure to collect some important key words as you hop from blog to blog.  As you collect them, they will build a phrase and from there, all you need to do is comment on Vicki's blog with the correct phrase and you will be eligible to win one of four copies of Creative Foundations!

 

You might want to remember this word...FOUNDATIONS.

Here are the other hoppers!

Rhonna Farrer

Linda Albrecht 

Kelly Goree

Bethany Kartchner

Danielle Flanders

Wendy Vecchi

Vicky Boutin

 

Thanks for stopping by!

Melis

introducing tremendous treats: birthday

I've been stamping away and enjoying every minute of it.  Today's post introduces you to a new stamp set from Papertrey Ink called Tremendous Treats:  Birthday which will be available for purchase on March 15th.  The images may look a bit familiar as this set brings Tiny Treats:  Birthday to life with super-sized images.

 I created  a set of 3 memo books each using a different image from the set and combining sentiments from the Tiny Treats:  Birthday set.  

I have to admit that the lady bug was first on my list...I couldn't possibly resist her.

A glittery, sweet birthday cake is the focus of the next...a perfect party favor for a little lady.

And on the last memo book, something suitable for a little guy.  

Something else you may spy on each of these memo books is a new die that I'm crazy about called the Super Star Border Die.  It's so much fun and so unique.

Next up is a gift bag dressed up for the birthday boy.  I love the vintage truck image and I love stamping on brown paper bags, so these two elements combined, made a super quick little wrap.  

You can see I used the Tiny Treats:  Birthday image of the vintage truck as well as the Tremendous Treats:  Birthday truck  stamp.  Fun to use both sizes of these together.  

Another peek of the Super Star Border Die is shown above

Lastly, something sweet and soft using the darling elephant image as well as the birthday balloons.  This set is so versatile, many of these images could easily be used for a new baby.

Another very fun new addition to the line up of release items this month is the  Edgers #5 die collection.  It's all about file folders and they make such wonderful little visual additions to cards, mini albums, and such.

Thanks so much for visiting!  Here are a few other stops for you to make along your journey today, all with sweet things for you to enjoy:

Nichole Heady

Danielle Flanders

 

Birthday Memo Books Supplies Used:

InLinkz.com

Loads of Wishes Gift Bag Supplies Used:

InLinkz.com

Tons of Fun Supplies Used:

InLinkz.com

spring skies...

Such a beautiful day today, not a cloud in the sky, no blustery winds...just the calm of spring.  I can hear trees growing as the earth warms up and the sun shines down.

I have a few spring treats to share with you today.  I love Easter and since it's right around the corner I thought I had better enjoy creating for it before it has gone and passed me by.  I created a few Easter boxes embellished with Melissa Frances crepe paper trim, speckled eggs, Maya Road trinket pins, a stamped tea stained tag, vintage trim, scrunched seam binding from My Craft Spot, and glitter.  A perfect home for Easter treats or just to sit out and enjoy each spring.

Before I go, congratulations are in order for Karen Letchworth!  Congratulations Karen, your name was selected randomly to win the $15 gift certificate to Freckled Fawn!  Have fun shopping!

Enjoy your day!

Melis

 

 

happy day to...

SUSAN MACDONALD!  You are the winner of  CardMaps 2 Today !  Congratulations and please send me an email with your address and I'll have it shipped to you.

Thank you all for playing along and for your sweet comments.  Remember you can order your own issue HERE at Scrapbook & Cards Today.  Come back tomorrow to find out who won the gift certificate to Freckled Fawn.

I'm making a mad dash out of town to run errands today, but wanted to quickly pop in and announce the winner as promised and share images of the new Tea for Two Birthday Collection card kit I designed for Frost it Pink.  It's sweet, pink, glittery, and loaded with materials and supplies. There are a few more kits available HERE!

Happy day to you all!

Melis

freckled fawn giveaway...

How about another fun giveaway?  This one is colorful, delightful, and inspiring!

Freckled Fawn is the most adorable shop and is filled with washi tapes, doilies, ribbons, and more---all which add a perfectly sweet touch to your projects, gifts, cards, and home decor.  Such fun!

They've asked me to give away a $15.00 spending spree at freckledfawn.com to one lucky reader.  Please leave me a note on this post and on Friday, March 9th I will choose a winner randomly and announce their name here on my blog.

Well, on this blustery, miserably cold day, March is most definitely here like a lion!  Today I have a few new pincushions to share using tea stained fabrics, pom pom trim, vintage trimmings, Maya Road zippers, felt flowers, velvet trims, trinket pins, and other toppings.

Maybelle...

Harriet...

Lucy...

And, the return of Lily.  I'll be posting these in my etsy shop in just a bit.

I'm excited to be trying Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken tonight...it's in the crock pot now and smells so yummy.  I'm waiting patiently for my little girl to come home from school.  I've missed her today more than usual, and thinking about baking her some brownies here in a minute...her favorite treat.

Enjoy your night and thank you all for stopping in!

Melis

 

 

give, give, giveaway...

Well Hi!  Since we're starting off a fresh, new week, how about we start it with a giveaway!  I was recently asked to contribute artwork to a new CardMaps issue...it's so beautiful!  CardMaps Today 2 is just about ready to hit store shelves!  With 45 brand new, never-before-seen card sketches by Becky Fleck of PageMaps, CardMaps Today 2 includes 80 beautifully-designed cards by 15 talented cardmakers all with instructions!   New to CardMaps Today 2 are eight trend-setting techniques featured in photographed step-outs!  This limited-edition, special issue is a must for all cardmakers!

You can order your own copy of this special issue and find out more HERE.

Today, I get to give away one copy of this lovely, lovely issue to one lucky reader.  All you have to do is leave a comment on this post.  You have until Wednesday, March 7th at midnight to comment. I will pick a winner randomly and announce them on my blog Thursday morning!

It wouldn't be right to leave without sharing a card, so tonight's card is just for you.

Love to dig into my felt stash and cut layers upon layers of flowers, hearts, and scalloped buttons.  Mix in bits of trim and top with adhesive pearls or buttons, and you've got yourself a sweet, handmade embellishment.

Happy March and Monday!  I've got Frank Sinatra playing while I'm making spaghetti and blogging, listening to my little one whistle, and waiting for my husband to come home for the night.

Night.

Melis

Bloom...Supplies Used:

InLinkz.com

story time...

I have a bit of fun news to share today, involving one of my very most favorite manufacturers, Simple Stories.  You can read the news HERE!  I have loved and drooled over their beautiful line of products since they were first released.  I love their sweet, homespun, distressed, cozy feel and the way all of their patterns coordinate perfectly like a handmade quilt...just my style.  

So in honor of my Simple Stories love affair and the sweet news that I found in my inbox this morning, I have a few projects to share with you today using the Simple Stories Baby Steps collection.

This line is the sweetest baby line on earth and I love that it works for other occasions as well.  

The scrunched seam binding used on all of these projects can be found at My Craft Spot.  

Papertrey Ink's Tiny Tags stamp set was used on the sentiment tags along with a Maya Road trinket pin, and Melissa Frances crepe paper trim.

Some other fun new to share today involves a new book from Paper Crafts magazine that I had the opportunity to contribute to...it just might be my all time favorite, it's huge and thick and filled with the cutest projects.

This is one of the ensembles I created for this book and you can find so many others included covering any occasion under the sun!

You can enter to win your own copy of this book by visiting the Moxie Fab World blog and leaving a comment.  

Have a wonderful day!

Melis