BettyBee's Place To Be

"I Feel the Love" and Class tonight

2012-01-24T18:51:00.000-05:00

This is a card I made to send to the parents and family of sweet little

Olivia Cappelluti.

She passed through this life, like a shining shooting star, for just a few short months.

Sympathy cards are very difficult to make, but reaching out is so important.

That is the challenge that a wonderful young lady, Madison, at Funky Cards has done, and I am asking you to share her vision, and help send a bit of comfort to this family by the end of January. Click here for all of the details.

In addition, since this was my birthday party celebration month,

remember I have a birthday present for someone out there!!

All you need to do is REACH OUT to Olivia's Family, or Someone, and post your card (or other effort) to this post, and you will be in the drawing for a Cricut Birthday Cakes Cartridge! If you don't have a blog, you can send me an email, and I'll post it for you,

***Programming note***

Due to illness, my UStream Class for tonight has been postponed until next week .

So sorry:( The yuckies have me!

I'll be back soon:)

Cricut Thanks

2012-01-17T00:55:00.000-05:00

Today I received a very special surprise in the mail, and was DELIGHTED to find an amazing array of Free Standing Lace pieces made especially for me by a friend! Here is a birthday card I made for my sister-in-law that has four of these beauties on the corners!

Thank you so much, Debra! I love them.... to see more, be sure to check out my class on Tuesday night!

Speaking of my Tuesday night class.... this week we will continue with

Cricut 202, What Does This Button Do?

Two weeks ago we explored the basic operations of the main part of the Cricut. This week we will move to the Modes and advanced features.

We will make hands-on projects, like this card, which will employ the use of different buttons on the Cricut. Please bring your machine, mat, several sheets of scrap paper, adhesives, ribbon, scissors, ruler, and pencil, and be ready to work along.

We will use the Plantain Schoolbook cartridge, or any cartridge that has a font, circle, tag, heart, and flower. You can use a combination of cartridges if you desire.

Class begins at 8:00 eastern time on my UStream Channel. Just click on the blue icon in the upper right corner, and it will take you there! Please register (it's free and easy!) so you can join in the chat, and I can answer any questions you might have.

Also, remember we have a BIRTHDAY BLOG CANDY contest going on! Congratulations to the three winners of last week's class! There will be more prizes this week (PS, I found them!! LOL) and the Cricut Cartridge contest is still going on!! Just make a card, or some other project for someone else, and post it here, or let me know about it by email, and I will post it for you, and you will be in the drawing for the Cricut Birthday Cake Cartridge!!!

See you Tuesday night!

Happy crafting ~

Be Mine Forever Tissue Box Album

2012-01-13T02:25:00.003-05:00

This red, white and pink confection is the latest in my Bless You Box albums - the perfect accent piece for your home and office. It also makes an ideal gift. I just love making a new one for every holiday or special event!!

Each side has four full size photo mats, as well as a pocket page with room for another photo and a journaling tag, which is included in your tutorial.

I used heart embossed cardstock, and Recollections All Seasons papers for the project. The accents are from my ribbon and accent stash, and Wild Orchid flowers. The medallion is from the Storybook Cricut Cartridge.

You can get the instructions to make your Bless You Boxes by clicking on the tab in the left

margin of my blog.

If you have any questions, please leave a comment, or send me an email! I love hearing from you.

Shared at : TidyMom - I'm Lovin' It

Passionately Artistic

Thanks to everyone who came to my online Birthday Party last night! It was a lot of fun, and the party will continue all month! Thanks to Judy Ford for the lucious Birthday Cake! Congratulations to all of the prize winners, too! I am working on the tutorial for the SWEET CAKES project, and will have it posted in the very near future :) Don't forget to participate in the Reach Out Project, and you could be the winner of the Birthday Cake Cricut Cartridge Giveaway, to be given away on February 10th! All you have to do is make a card, or something else, for someone else, and let me know about it, and you will be entered into the drawing. See the Birthday Party Post for details! We will have some more prizes at my UStream Class next Tuesday night, January 17th, too! Come and join us as we practice using our Cricuts! I will be teaching a big part of my

Cricut 202 - What Does This Button Do? Class

Be ready with your Expression, several sheets of 12x12 scratch paper,

a couple of sheets of white cardstock, and adhesives. We will be making a couple of completed projects, as we practice using the advanced features of the Cricut. Hope to see you there! (If you haven't been there before, just click on the blue button at the top of my blog, and there you are! All classes have been recorded, so you can go back and see what you have missed!)

Looking forward to seeing you then!

Happy crafting ~

You're Invited to My Birthday Party!

2012-01-08T22:38:00.000-05:00

It's a BIG one!! Well, thank goodness they say that 60 is the new 50, so I'm going backwards! SO, I want to celebrate!!! What better way is there to celebrate than to have presents??

I have blog candy,

treats,

fun and games, and all sorts of stuff going on!

The live party will be WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 11th at 8:00 pm eastern time

on my USTREAM CHANNEL!!

Please note the change in regular time.... I will be out of town Tuesday, and can't be on Tuesday night.... so I am moving class to Wednesday!

In honor of my new "50th" birthday (LOL) I hope to hit 50,000 hits on my blog!!

We're coming close :)

For my birthday, all I'm asking is for everyone to participate in

some event where you reach out to help someone else.

If you don't have a favorite,

perhaps you could make a card

for Madison at Funky Cards

for her "I Feel the Love" project for January or February.

This amazing young girl has started a very worthwhile card project, and is touching the lives

of some very special people. I know we could help her out.

Just create a card for someone else, and link your post here, and you will be entered into one of the BIRTHDAY PARTY BLOG CANDY give aways! (Plus you'll feel really good, too!)

Blog candy give aways will include:

Cricut Birthday Cakes Cartridge!

and some of these goodies...

"Take the Cake" Cuttlebug Folder

"Celebrate!" Cuttlebug Folder

"Scrollwork" Cuttlebug Folder

"Make a Wish" Cuttlebug Cuttlebug Die and Embossing Set

PLUS more surprises!

Looking forward to celebrating with you!!

True Love and new Ribbon Kit Club

2012-01-05T00:50:00.000-05:00

This "True Love" card features MS Scalloped Dot punching on the opening aperture on the left side, creating the ideal spacing for lacing with beautiful red satin ribbons. The "Love" charm has been polished gold with Rub N Buff, along with the edges of the card. The red section has been embossed with the Love Language Cuttlebug folder, and the darling little cherub is cut from the Cricut Lite Celebrate with Flourish Cartridge. The "True Love" sentiment is from Teresa Collins wedding paper. Additional trim is from "BettyBee's Ribbon and Trim February Kit Club...."

"What is that you ask???"

Introducing an exciting new opportunity to order a monthly kit of timely and coordinated luxurious top quality Ribbons, Trims, Fibers, and other accent embellishments!! Shown is an example of this month's kit. You will receive 20 yards of beautiful ribbons, trims, and fibers, as well as other items such as the LOVE charm shown, the crocheted doily, and flat back pearl trim. All of this at the incredibly low price of only $15.00 SHIPPED in the USA. (International addresses will have additional shipping).

You can also join for SIX MONTHS and save $$$!!!!!!!!!! You can reserve your kits, and pay only
$12.50 for each month's supply of gorgeous goodies! Your total would be $75.00 for more than 120 yards of relevant richness for enhancing all of your projects! That's like getting one month free!! There is also a two payment plan option.
As we go along, I will be showcasing all sorts of ribbon and trim projects here, as well as on my UStream classes. I do hope you will love these yummies like I do!!

Order this week, and you will receive FREE shimmer ribbons for January projects as a bonus!!
If you have questions, please drop me an email, or leave a comment, and I'll address it asap!

Happy creating ~

UStream Class tonight!

2012-01-03T18:42:00.000-05:00

Tonight's UStream Class will be an introduction to my plans for the rest of the year! Hope you will be able to join in. It will be "short and sweet"! See you at 8:00! (Just click on the UStream icon and it will take you to the UStream channel.)

Happy Crafting ~

Happy New Year!!

2012-01-01T01:46:00.001-05:00

Hope your New Year is full of the very best of health, happiness, prosperity and peace.

In my UStream Class on Tuesday, we created this SIGNS OF THE TIMES project.

It is a series of seven boxes, covered in paper, with embossed metallic strips on the sides.

Each box has a hook and loop dot so you can create different frames to change the signs to celebrate all year!

This is the arrangement for our 38th Anniversary this past Thursday! (I wish you could see the gorgeous sparkle!)

Here are the Signs all decked out for a PARTY!!!

Notice the boxes are arranged in different locations, depending on the lettering! FUN project!

You are invited to check out the DEC. 27th UStream Recording to get the particulars,

or click here for the box info.

Speaking of PARTY.... I have a BIG Birthday coming up soon.... one of those with BIG round numbers...

and one of the gals said that "60 is the new 50",

and since I am nearing 50,000 hits on my blog...

{{{THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH!!!}}}

I am going to have a PARTY!!!

On Tuesday, January 10th, at my UStream Class

it will be PARTY TIME!!!

There will be a special BIRTHDAY PROJECT

BIRTHDAY PRIZES

BIRTHDAY RECIPES and

Always some SURPRISES up my sleeve!!

and I hope we hit the 50,000 mark by then!

I hope you and your friends will come and help me celebrate!!!

UStream Class Tuesday night!

2011-12-27T01:07:00.000-05:00

I hope each of you has enjoyed a very blessed holiday. It is very late on Monday, but I wanted to post a quick notice that I will be holding a UStream Class tomorrow night at 8:00 pm eastern time! I have a home decor project to introduce, so I hope you will join right in!

Happy crafting ~

Here We Come A Caroling ...

2011-12-20T05:02:00.000-05:00

and it's Tuesday Tutorial at Digital Delights. I have enjoyed being a New Release Artist, and then Tutorial Artist for them for quite a while, but some family needs have made it necessary for me to say farewell to Wendy and the wonderful design team members. This is my last video for them. I hope you will enjoy learning to take her adorable digital images, and making them "come to life" like Frosty!!

I will be having my UStream Class Tuesday evening, Dec. 20th at 8:00 pm, and I will be sharing several last minute Christmas projects, Thank You projects, and a surprise or two. I do hope you will be joining me! Click on the UStream logo on the top of my blog to take you to the channel.

Happy crafting!

Congratulations to the Blog Hope Winner!

2011-12-19T00:45:00.002-05:00

I understand it was very lucky weekend for BLUCACA!! Congratulations for being my winner on the

12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS CRAFTS BLOG HOP! Please send me your email address, so I can send your prize package your way. (Rumor has it she won another prize this week, too! WooHoo!!) Thanks to all of you who participated, and it is a pleasure to have so many new visitors and followers! I look forward to getting to know you!

Washington DC Mormon Temple dressed in amazing Christmas lights.

I am happy to announce that I am home from my travels, and will be back on my UStream Channel on Tuesday night. I am working on some final gift ideas, Christmas Thank You projects, and a Bless You Box for the GUYS!! As always, there will be a surprise or two, including a Christmas morning recipe. Looking forward to seeing you at 8:00 eastern time on Tuesday evening!!

Happy crafting ~

Day 12 of our 12 Days of Christmas Crafts Blog Hop

2011-12-16T03:00:00.000-05:00

Well, we did it!! It's like waiting for Santa to come, and the time is finally here! Today is Jen's project, her Poinsettia Ball, and then tonight we will be drawing the names of the prize winners of all of you who have been our wonderful followers and commenters throughout the blog hop. We appreciate you being with us, and hope you have enjoyed the projects. Wanda, Jen and I wish you a very Merry Christmas, and hope your holidays will be joyous ones with family and friends, wherever you are.

Happy crafting ~

Day 11 of our 12 Days of Christmas Craft Blog Hop

2011-12-15T03:00:00.002-05:00

Today is Wanda's final project, and she has chosen a Gift Card Holder as her gorgeous card. Please HOP over to Wanda's Whimiscal Wonders for the specifics on this Christmas Beauty! And this is your last chance to enter your comments for her Cricut Cartridge prize!!! Good luck :)

See you tomorrow at Jen's Upcycled Scrapbooking for her Poinsettia Ball!
Happy crafting ~

Day 10 of our 12 Days of Christmas Blog Hop

2011-12-14T00:16:00.001-05:00

My project for today's edition of the Blog Hop is a Custom Canvas.

These are 8 x 10 canvas frames, with printed designs Mod-Podged onto them.

Here are the steps for creating your own:

Cut tissue paper exactly 8.5 inches wide, and about 13 inches long. Fold the ends over a piece of regular copy paper and tape securely. This will allow the paper to travel through your printer.

Choose your 8 x 10 artwork, and place it into a word document. Print it onto the tissue paper.

Cut around the edges, leaving the 8 x 10 final image.

Use Mod Podge, and a sponge brush, and a framed canvas.

Spread a thin layer of Mod Podge on the canvas.

Carefully place the tissue over the canvas. It is important to start square, and lay it down evenly, because it will become wet tissue!

PAT (do not rub) the tissue into the Mod Podge to see the canvas texture.

It will dry very sturdy, but it is very fragile while it is wet.

Add embellishments and hang or set it on an easle.

This is a perfect project for seasonal designs, family pictures, and subway art!

I hope you have enjoyed these projects, as well as the others from the blog hop so far.

Please be sure to leave us some comments so you can be in the drawings for the four prizes that will be given away on Dec. 17th.

My prize package will include the

Wise Men Still Seek Him canvas shown above

25 yards of assorted Ribbon

3 rolls of ATG tape!

Day 9 of our 12 Days of Christmas Crafts Blog Hop

2011-12-13T03:00:00.000-05:00

Family Trees are typically done with a bare trunk, and some wooden branches, but Jen at Upcycled Scrapbooking has a very unique take on this theme to share with you today!

Create something totally fun and unique this holiday season! Hop over to find out all about it! Be sure to leave us some comments, and follow the other tasks on Rafflecopter, and you will have lots of chances to win our prize packages at the end of the blog hop!

I'll be back tomorrow with my final project for the hop! See you then!

Happy Crafting ~

Day 8 of our Christmas Craft Blog Hop

2011-12-12T03:00:00.000-05:00

Things are 'hopping' right along with our Christmas Craft Blog Hop!! We hope you are enjoying the projects we are bringing you, and that you are in the drawings for our prize packages, too!

Today is Wanda's day to share a warm Christms gift idea with you. She is going to light up your life with custom designed Candles! Hop on over to Wanda's Whimsical Wonders to find out all about it! See you tomorrow at Jen's Upcycled Scrapbooking!
Happy Crafting ~

Day 7 of our Christmas Craft Blog Hop

2011-12-11T00:01:00.004-05:00

I hope you are having a great time following our 12 days of Christmas Crafts blog hop. I know there are many blogs to follow, and we hope you are getting inspiration that helps with your holidays!

Today I want to share my favorite mini album. It is quick to make, but looks like a beautiful designer piece that took hours! It is just right for small photos, journaling, gift cards and other delights!

Begin with a double sided 12x12 sheet of cardstock. Score at 2, 6, and 10. Rotate and score at 3, 6, and 9. On the side with the 2 and 10, Cut the 6 inch line up to the last score cross line. Now it's time to fold!
Fold up the two 2 inch sides, creating pockets.

Fold the solid end up. Now create a mountain fold with the next section, and a valley fold with the last section.

The last fold will be to fold along the remaining part of the 6 inch line, folding the book in half.

Add dimensional adhesive to adhere the top part of the pages together, causing the book to have a uniform spine, as the pockets make it thicker at the bottom.

Use a thin line of liquid glue to adhere the pockets closed on pages 1, 4, all of the separation between 4 and 5, then the pockets on 5 and 8.

Add another piece cut 1 1/2 x 4, scored at 5/8 and 7/8 to make a cover for the binding. Glue only the front and back panels. That's all there is to it! Now create beautiful 2 1/4 inch wide tags and folders to place in the pockets. The pocket is also the perfect size to hold a gift card!

I hope you enjoy making these great little albums!

Day 6 of our Christmas Crafts Blog Hop

2011-12-10T03:00:00.001-05:00

We hope you are having a great time with the projects that we are sharing with you! Today Jen has a fun project to warm our hearts, even if it is cold outside! Check out her darling Snowman projects at
UpcycledScrapbooking! Be sure to leave comments, and other tasks on RaffleCopter so you can be in the running for our prize packages to be given away on Dec. 17th!!

I'll be back tomorrow with my favorite Mini Album for easy gift giving!

Happy crafting ~

Day 5 of our 12 Days of Christmas Crafts Blog Hop

2011-12-09T03:00:00.005-05:00

Today is Wanda's Day to share a Christmas Craft with you! Her project is creating some Personalized Gifts, that even the guys will appreciate! I hope you will
HOP over there are check out Wanda's Whimiscal Wonders, and leave us some comments this week, as well as the other tasks on Rafflecopter, putting you in the drawings for our Christmas Prizes!

Christmas Mug, with etched design!

We'll see you tomorrow with a project from Jen at UpcycledScrapbooking!
Happy Crafting ~

Day 4 of our 12 Days of Christmas Blog Hop

2011-12-08T00:01:00.001-05:00

Welcome to today's edition of our Christmas Craft Blog Hop!

It is my pleasure to bring you my very own recipe for

Mrs. Claus' Cookies, a package, and a tutorial on making your own embossing plates!

This pillow box is cut from the Easter Cartridge on my Cricut, using my Gypsy to remove the cut out image, but there are several cartridges that have Pillow Box cuts. This one is 7 x 9 inches, and has a custom cut embossed image on the top. Aren't they pretty?!

To make the Embossing Plate, cut two layers of thin chipboard with your Cricut. This pattern is from the Martha Stewart Cake Cartridge, cut at "Fit To Length" 8 inches. Glue the chipboard to a piece of acrylic packaging, and carefully glue the second piece of chipboard directly on top of the first.

Your "sandwich" for embossing with a Cuttlebug will be an A Plate; B Plate; pillow box, or other paper, with the embossing plate under the paper, or inside the box; soft rubber mat; and B Plate. The soft rubber mat causes the paper to press against the chipboard, without having an embossing folder. You can use the black mat that comes with Sizzix, red plumbers rubber, or fun foam.

Mrs. Claus' Cookies

These cookies are delicious, and make a lot of yummy goodness!

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

Mix together the following dry ingredients:

1 Cup White Sugar

1 Cup Brown Sugar

2 Cups Flour

1 tsp. salt

1 tsp. baking soda

Add in:

1 Cup Crisco

2 Eggs

Stir in:

2 Cups Old Fashioned Oats

3/4 Cup White Raisins

1/2 Cup Milk Chocolate Chips

1/2 Cup White Chocolate Chips

1/2 Cup Chopped Walnuts

1/4 Cup Coconut

The mixture will be dry. However, when you roll it into a ball, it will "melt" the Crisco, and hold together nicely. Roll into balls the size of walnuts. Place on ungreased cookie sheets.

Bake for 12 - 13 minutes.

Enjoy!

Day 3 of our Christmas Craft Blog Hop

2011-12-07T09:46:00.001-05:00

I hope you have been enjoying the first couple of days of our Christmas crafts, and are ready to be introduced to Jen at Upcycled Scrapbooking. Her project for today is called

12 Day Advent Envelopes Calendar

Your Blog hostesses are:

Betty Bee - http://www.bettybrett.blogspot.com/

Day# 1, 4, 7 & 10

Wanda's Whimsical Wonders - http://wandaswhimsicalwonders.blogspot.com/

Day# 2, 5, 8 & 11

Upcycled Scrapbooking (aka Buggababymomma) - http://www.upcycledscrapbooking.blogspot.com/ Days # 3, 6, 9 & 12

We will be rotating days between us, so you won't want to miss ANY of the great projects and giveaways we have for you!!
I will be back tomorrow with a YUMMY project for you!

*12 Day of Christmas Blog Hop Info*

ONE PROJECT PER DAY, ONE PRIZE/GIVEAWAY PER HOST at the END of the HOP

The HOP is from December 5th - 16th. Over the next 12 days, we will feature holiday projects and will have step-by-step instructions. There may be a kit or tutorial available for purchase to make it easier to make the project.

**PLEASE DON'T FORGET!!!**
Check back everyday to see what we have for you, and play along to get lots of chances to win the prizes we have for you!
Happy Holiday crafting!

2011-12-06T03:00:00.000-05:00

Welcome to our 12 Days of Christmas Craft Projects

Blog Hop!

Today is Day # 2
We will be enjoying Wanda's 12 Days of Christmas Icicles

Hop over and find out all about it!

Your Hostesses are:
Betty Bee - http://www.bettybrett.blogspot.com/
Day# 1, 4, 7 & 10

Wanda's Whimsical Wonders - http://wandaswhimsicalwonders.blogspot.com/
Day# 2, 5, 8 & 11

Upcycled Scrapbooking (aka Buggababymomma) - http://www.upcycledscrapbooking.blogspot.com/
Day# 3, 6, 9 & 12

We will be rotating days between us, so you won't want to miss ANY of the great projects and giveaways we have for you!!

*12 Day of Christmas Blog Hop Info*

ONE PROJECT PER DAY, ONE PRIZE/GIVEAWAY PER HOST at the END of the HOP
The HOP is from December 5th - 16th. Over the next 12 days, we will feature holiday projects and will have step-by-step instructions. There may be a kit or tutorial available for purchase to make it easier to make the project.

This is just one of the wonderful Prizes you could win!

**PLEASE DON'T FORGET!!!**

You must leave a valid e-mail address so we can contact you if you are one of the winners!**

Welcome to the 12 Days of Christmas Crafts Blog Hop!

2011-12-05T00:17:00.001-05:00

It is my pleasure to start off the first day of this 12 Day Delight of Christmas Crafts and Projects with a Trio of Treat Totes for you. These handy handbags hold candy kisses, candy bars, and other treats for presentation with a flair.

Let's make these darling bags for giving goodies to all of your family and friends!

I will be giving three sizes here, according to the photo,

green, burgundy, and red.

Begin with a 9 inch square, 6 x 8 inch paper, or 6 inch square of paper.

Score at 3 and 6 inches, 2 and 6 inches, 2 and 4 inches. Rotate paper.

Score at 3 and 6 inches, 2 and 4 inches, and 2 and 4 inches.

On the four CORNER SQUARES score diagonally from the corner to the scored intersection, cutting the section into two triangles. On the two SIDE squares (plain ones) score 1/2 inch straight in. Now score diagonal lines, creating an inverted "V" to the intersections. Fold on all scored lines.

Cut off one half of each outside corner, from solid line to solid line... (see photo below) this removes extra bulk from the project.

For flaps, cut 4 x 2 1/2, 3 x 4, or 2 x 2 1/2 .

Score at 1/2 and 1 inch, creating a flap to attach to the back, and a flat top.

Punch two 1/8 inch holes in the top, and thread 5 to 6 inches of ribbon through them.

Secure with glue dots or hot glue.

If you wish to decorate your panels, cut them 1/8 of an inch smaller than the panel, and glue in place.

Stamped and matted messages in the bottom of the bags are a special surprise!

Add a small hook and loop tape set to the inside of the flap, and press closed, transferring the half to the front of the purse.

The 6 inch size is perfect for holding four Hershey Kisses :)

You can also add two ribbons down the back, instead of a handle across the top, to make a backpack (thanks, Tyler, my creative Grandson!).

Thanks for being part of our Blog Hop!

Below is the RaffleCopter info on how you can participate in our prize contest!

Good luck, and be sure to check in tomorrow to see

Wanda's 12 Days of Christmas Icicles

"Tops" for Christmas Projects and a Sneak Peek!

2011-11-29T03:49:00.000-05:00

It is Tutorial Tuesday at Digital Delights, and it is my turn to create something fun with Wendy's adorable images. This week I have four of her precious "Toppers" which you frequently see on the top of candy bags ... so cute... but this time I have them doing other fun things!

Here we have Mr. Snowman as the bearer of happy tidings with a choice gift card from every kids's favorite place, Wal-Mart!

And now we have Peeking Santa looking out from his perch, checking to see who is Naughty and Nice! His smile tells me you are all on his "Nice" list!

Here is a video showing friends, Moosey and Elf, and there are quite a few images available more in the STORE. The video will show how to make gift card pockets to slip into the stockings, as well as a complete photo tutorial on how to make a "Meandering" Mini-Album from just one double sided sheet of 12x12 cardstock. I hope you enjoy it!

Don't forget about "Something Yummy For Your Tummy" on my UStream Channel tonight at 8:00 eastern time! We will be creating FIVE projects, plus Mrs. Claus's Cookies (for real!!)

Sneak Peek of tonight's class! See you there :)

Happy crafting ~

Santa Bless You Box

2011-11-27T14:02:00.000-05:00

Did you know that I have added to my Cricut collection?

I am the excited new owner of the Imagine, and I am having so much fun learning a lot of the wonderful things it will do!

Here is my latest BLESS YOU BOX, featuring Santa from the

Santa's Village Imagine Cartridge.

There is a matching card in the background, as well.

I love that you can size the images to your specifications, carry over images from other cartridges, fill them with colors to match, pick just parts of the layers, and/or cut the project in layers!!
This paper is from a DCWV paper pack from a couple of years ago, but it has been re-issued in a Recollections All Seasons pack at Michael's .... so enjoy!
Now I just add the pictures, and this will be a treasure to enhance my room for years to come!
If you want to make BLESS YOU BOXES for yourself, your family and friends, just click here for the tutorial, and you will be on your way! There is a class recorded on my UStream Channel, too.
Super easy!

Don't forget UStream TV on Tuesday evening at 8:00 eastern time!
I have a series of Something Yummy for Your Tummy this week!!
I hope to see you there :)

Happy crafting ~

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T00:55:00.000-05:00

I want to take this opportunity to say how grateful I am to each of you for being a very special part of my life. I know many of you, and some are "background" friends who read my posts, but I am not acquainted with you yet, though I hope to be someday. This creative experience is a very important part of my life, and it brings me great joy. I hope I am able to inspire you in some small way from time to time.

As many of you know, we have had our challenges of late, but I am very grateful for the blessings we have received that see us through even the toughest times. They help us focus on what is important, and make us stronger along the way.

What are you grateful for this Thanksgiving?

This candle is a project that I created last year, but it remains one of my favorites. It is stamped on tissue paper in beautiful fall colors, wrapped with a piece of waxed paper, and then heated with a heat gun. The heat melts the wax from the paper, adhering the tissue transparently to the wax on the candle. It is burnable with care.

Here is my fall centerpiece, complete with a vinyl sentiment from the Thanksgiving Solutions cartridge. I made the leaf gold, so it matches the gold charger plate, and adds a final touch to the arrangement.

May you and yours be blessed this Thanksgiving, and may you have the opportunity to find quiet moments of reflection to count your blessings, and give thanks!

Then gobble til you wobble!!!

I'll be back soon with some new projects! (PS and thanks to those who came to my UStream class last night! We had so much fun with projects for Santa Head to Toe!!! If you are interested, you can see the recording of the class anytime. Click on the link at the top of the page....)

Happy Thanksgiving!

Santa Banner

2011-11-21T21:18:00.000-05:00

This week's UStream Class theme is

Santa Claus is Coming to Town!

See how to make this Santa Pennant Banner

which is long enough to span clear across a large window, mirror, fireplace, or wall!

The construction is very cool, and doesn't require any specific cutting machines :)

I will also be showing Santa's Pants,

which is the gift bag with delightful details.

Learn how to make Santa's Coat,

a card that hides a big secret carrying a special place for a gift card!

And, as always, I will have a few other surprises during class.

I look forward to seeing you there,

or, if you can't be there, check out the recording, and come back next

Tuesday evening at 8:00 (eastern time).

Just click on the logo in the upper right corner of my blog.

HO HO HO!!!

Happy crafting ~

Another Bless You Box!

2011-11-16T00:30:00.001-05:00

a BLESS YOU BOX is a Tissue Box Cover with a very special purpose...

The sides unbutton, and come down, showcasing 20 different photo mats,

and pockets with special journaling tags inside.

This one was designed to match the nursery of the beautiful new baby, Adah,

that we are going to meet today!

(I hope you might be interested in making a BLESS YOU BOX for a special place in your home, office, or as a gift! You can get the tutorial by clicking on the button in the upper left corner of my blog, and there is a recorded class on my UStream Channel. If you have questions, PLEASE leave a comment, or send me an email.)

Back soon with some more new goodies!

Happy crafting ~

Finger Puppets from Digital Images!

2011-11-15T00:05:00.000-05:00

Have you ever wondered if you can print digital images on fabric? Well, you can!!!

These are the finger puppets I did from DIGITAL DELIGHTS Thanksgiving and other collections to create PORTER'S PLAYHOUSE PUPPET THEATER!

Studies have shown that any experience where a kid uses his imagination is one of the best growth tools, and puppets are the very best at opening their little creative minds.

These were very easy to make, and I've even used a picture frame to make the theater.

Wendy is having a SALE at Digital Delights, so you can create LOTS of wonderful images!

Here's how:

Happy creating ~

Santa's Pants!

2011-11-13T23:00:00.000-05:00

Santa Claus is Coming to Town!!! That is the theme of the crop I am hosting this coming weekend, and these are the Goodie Bags I have designed!

They are also fantastic for your gift giving pleasures this holiday season, so I have created a tutorial, and kits to make FIVE complete pairs of SANTA'S PANTS!

Here's a video all about it!

The photo-filled tutorial is just $3.95!

and the complete kits are just $15.00 which is only $3.00 per bag!!!

$15.00 plus $5.00 postage.
International Rates invoiced at actual cost.

I hope you find lots of fun things in Santa's Pants!!!

Don't forget no UStream class this Tuesday, as I'll be out of town, but I have another Santa's Pants project to share with you nexxt Tuesday at 8:00pm! Hope you'll be there to join me!!

I have a really fun Thanksgiving project coming up soon.

Hope you are having fun crafting....

See you soon!

Celebration Station Tutorial and Kit

2011-11-07T02:43:00.007-05:00

I am so excited to introduce my next tutorial, and this time I have created a kit!! For more pictures and info check here

The tutorial is loaded with tons of photos to show step-by-step how to create this pocket filled project, and the papers are just GORGEOUS!!

Be sure to check out my UStream Class on Tuesday, November 9th at 8:00 pm eastern time, and follow along!

You can get the Tutorial and Printables Only here

And the Complete Kit, which gives you all of the Designer Papers, Cardstocks, Eyelets, Rings, Easel, Monthly Tabs, as well as the Tutorial, including the Printables. Buy Now button is here....
Supplies are limited on the Kits!!!

Add on 3 rolls of ATG tape for $5.00 with no additional Shipping and Handling

Happy crafting ~

Never-Ending Card video, and Class Info

2011-11-01T04:11:00.000-04:00

It's Tutorial Tuesday at Digital Delights, and I am sharing something that is not new in the industry, but new to me! You know, it's funny how something can be around for a while, and then it gets a sudden reincarnation!
Well, it must be so with the Never-Ending card! I was speaking with another designer, and she said she had one sitting on her desk, considering showcasing it for her next project, too!

I hope you will give one of these super fun cards a try, and if you haven't made one before, you are in for a real treat! They are deceptively easy to make, and totally fun to play with :)

There are four layers to them, yet they are made with just two simple squares of paper, cut in half!

Who'd a thunk it???

Well, here's a video to show you just how fun and easy this little number is.....

And speaking of videos...

My UStream class for tonight is changing subjects.

Celebration Station isn't quite ready, due to an unforeseen delay, so we will be doing the

COFFEE FILTER WREATH,

and another SURPRISE OR TWO!!!!

See you tonight at 8:00 eastern time!

Happy crafting ~

UStream Class Tuesday Night!

2011-10-25T01:31:00.000-04:00

This week's class will be a great "create-along-with-me" album! It is from the DESIGNING WOMEN tutorial, and this is the paper I will be using... to celebrate the birth of Baby Adah Stephens :)
Click on my UStream Button, and it will take you to my UStream Channel, and I'll see you at 8:00 pm Eastern time!

Supplies List:
3 sheets double sided 12 x 12
Kraft or Cream Cardstock
Embellishments
Duct Tape

Tools:
Scoring Board and Bone Folder
Paper Trimmer
Scissors
Agressive double sided tape
Wet Glue and Hot Glue

See you then!

Happy BIRTH day to Adah! I hope she is actually born by the time of the class! Congratulations to Emalie and Darren. XOXOX

Designing Women II or BOO to YoU!!!

2011-10-20T03:09:00.000-04:00

What have I been thinking? This spooky little album has been lurking around my studio for a while now, and I thought I had brought it to you before, but apparently it has been haunting my memories, and not my blog!

It has great diagonal pages, full size insert tags, journaling spots, and cool hinges.

And the really fun part, is it is the exact same album as the Designing Women album I made back in the summer! I now have the tutorial ready, and you can get it and make them for yourself ... Just click the Buy Now button on the left side of my blog. I will be having a UStream Class on this project on Tue., Oct. 25th, so you can create right along with me! I will be doing a completely new look!

Thanks for stopping by, and Happy Halloween!

Happy crafting ~

Glam it Up with Glitter!

2011-10-18T00:39:00.000-04:00

This week on Tuesday's Tutorial I am playing with lots of Glitter! I have jam packed this video with tons of tips and tricks on different glitters, adhesives, and even how to clean them up...

There is so much goodness is this video, that I had to split it into two parts, but the GOOD NEWS is that YouTube has said I can now post longer videos! WooHoo!!!
I hope you enjoy the videos!

The darling digital images of Ghilly the Ghost and Hugging Ghosts are available at Digital Delights.

Happy crafting ~

UStream Class Tonight!!

2011-10-11T14:09:00.000-04:00

Tonight's UStream Class is all about the

TWO-SHEET SHOW OFF ALBUM!

I know some of you have had a bit of trouble downloading the tutorial,

but I want you to know the code has been redone, and it should be easy-peasy, and ready to go!

I'll be looking forward to seeing you tonight at 8:00 eastern time.

Bring 2 sheets of 12x12, and 3 sheets of decorator paper (12x12 or 8.5 x 11, or even scraps) for matting.

Paper Trimmer, Scoring Board, Adhesives, 2 Brads and some twine!

See you then♥

Greetings from our WonderWorks Executive Retreat super secret location!

Happy crafting ~

Fabulously Fall Fun!

2011-10-05T01:58:00.000-04:00

This little Treat Box lady, Scara-Crow, is the Fall counterpart to Frankie

for the Ghoul's Day Out Crop

being held on Sat. October 15th at the Bradenton Country Club.

Some had requested non-Halloween projects, so we are happy to show the same techniques and classes

in Fall papers and themes, as the Halloween projects already published.

This is going to be a great day!

If you haven't signed up yet, and can get there on

Sat. Oct. 15th, click on the link in the upper left of this blog, pick your luncheon choice, and get registered!

You can bring youth scrappers from age 9 up to this event, too.
Let's make it a true Ghoul's Day Out!

Thanks to all of the gals who were at my UStream class tonight! WoW! We had so much fun :)

If you missed it, you can check out the recordings any time.

Thanks, too, for all of your prayers and best wishes while Bob the Babe was sick. He is home from the hospital now, and resting comfortably. It was a rough few days, and we are grateful for the blessings we have received. Let's pray the bleeding stays stopped, and he will continue to heal. Hugs to you all!

If you are waiting on ATG tape, it arrived this afternoon! I will get it packaged and sent just as soon as I can! YAY!

Happy crafting ~

Surprise UStream Class Tonight!

2011-10-04T18:12:00.000-04:00

How about some Tricks and Treats?!! I have been out for the last 5 days, and have been thinking about some really fun projects I want to share with you!!!

Come by my UStream Channel tonight at 8:00 eastern time, and there will be plenty of TRICKS and TREATS to share!!!

Also, A note to those interested in the GHOUL'S DAY OUT CROP on

October 15th in Bradenton, Florida! If Halloween isn't your "thing" we are offering

FABULOUSLY FALL alternatives for all of the classes!!! Please join us anyway, and you can take every one of the classes, learn every one of the techniques, and have all of the fun with your GHOUL FRIENDS, only your creations will be FALL themed.... just let me know when I contact you that you prefer fall kits!

OK, gotta run get ready for class! See you at 8:00 :)

BTW if you can't make it, there will be a recording, but you miss the chat, and that's half the fun!!

Happy creating ~

Halloween version of the Bless You Box

2011-10-01T20:04:00.000-04:00

October is here, and it's time for lots of fun decorating! In my UStream class we created our first

BLESS YOU BOX, and I wanted to share the finished product!

Here we have the city scape, complete with flying witches, and adorment of custom blended

"Haunted Chateau" gitter!

Inside I've used the same theme throughout, with lots of textures, spider punches, and lots of fun embellishments. I chose to print my journaling tags on matching orange cardstock. I can hardly wait for pictures of the mini-monsters in their costumes, so I can put them in my fang-tastic album.

For the top I decided that a black sequined collar was just the ticket! Elegance for every occasion!

If you want to create Bless You Boxes for yourself, you can check out the recorded class

on my UStream Channel (here) or click the big blue button on the upper right corner of my blog.

You can order your

18 page photo filled BLESS YOU BOX tutorial here!

Happy creating ~

Two-Sheet Show Off Album

2011-09-28T15:55:00.013-04:00

Here's a really fun brag book style album that can be created with just two sheets of 12 x 12 paper! Decorate it for every occasion, and carry it everywhere!

This great little album is completed entirely with

two 12 x 12 pieces of cardstock,

plus accents and embellishments! It stands alone, or can

be the featured accent of a scrapbook page!

Join me as I create one from start to finish in an online class at my USTREAM CHANNEL

at this address:

http://www.ustream.tv/channel/betty-bee-designs

or you can click on the UStream Logo at the upper right corner of my blog.

There are recorded sessions of previous classes there, too! Please come by and join the crowd :)

Two-Sheet Show Off Album Class on Tuesday, October 11 at 8:00 pm Eastern Time

You can download your complete 17 page tutorial from this Buy Now Button

for only $3.50!!

Happy Creating ~

Reminder of Class Tonight!

2011-09-27T10:49:00.000-04:00

Tonight is the Bless You Box Class on UStream. Click the UStream link in the right corner and it will take you there.

If you haven't gotten your tutorial, you can purchase it in the link below. See you tonight!

Bless You Box Tutorial Sneak Peek

2011-09-20T11:23:00.068-04:00

* For download instructions click here!

Happy creating ~

A busy day today!

2011-09-20T09:17:00.000-04:00

It's Tutorial Tuesday at Digital Delights, and my pleasure to bring you a really fun and versatile ACETATE TREAT Box design... not original, as I took a class at Stampfest a couple of years ago that showed this project... but this has my twist on it... as well as a Digital Delights Halloween sentiment!!!

Supplies and Tools:

8.25 x 3.5 Acetate (This can be purchased in an office supply store. They carry two different kinds. Get the cheaper one for this kind of a project.) Recycled packaging works just fine... it just might take more muscle to get the scoring done :)

Two 3 x x inch pieces of cardstock for the top and bottom of the box

Three pieces of 8.25 long trim, They can be your choice of width, etc. They are for trimming the top and bottom of the box, as well as one for the Belly Band.

One Downloaded Halloween Sentiment, mine was torn and inked.

8 - 10 inches of 1/4 inch wide ribbon for the handle. Additional if desired for embellishments.

Double-sided Tape. Needs to be strong, like Scor-Tape, Red Line, Tacky Tape, ATG, etc.

Liquid Glue (quick drying works best for adding embellishments)

Dimensionals for adding sentiment

Paper Trimmer

Stylus

Stazon Ink

Rubber Stamp

Paper Punch (1//8 inch is best)

Sharpie or other fine line marker that will write on the acetate

Scissors

Distressing Ink for the edges (your choice of colors to compliment the project)

CANDY!!!

I hope you enjoyed the show, and will give the project a try!! Will you leave me a comment, and let me know? Thanks!

Now, for my next big project! You are INVITED TO JOIN ME for my very first U-STREAM.TV broadcast tonight!! Yep, Tuesday, Sept. 20th at 8:00 Eastern time (If something comes up and you just CAN'T be there, don't worry... I will try to remember to push the RECORD button, so you can go back and see it anytime you want!) I will be sharing a "work along with me" class on making a very cool SPOOKY TREE and Halloween Box full of goodies to go on it! (pictures in the post below this one). It is a COUNTDOWN BOX, that has super cool potential for several other applications... sneak peeks tonight!! I also plan to share some of the other projects I have in the works for upcoming classes. They will be every other week ... starting on Tuesdays, and going again on Wednesday, if we don't get finished the first night!!! There is a chat screen, so we can all "play" together. You will want to get registered (it's free, so don't worry about a thing, just come!!) so pop on over a little early, and get settled in!

More goodies coming very soon!

Happy crafting ~

Count Down To Halloween CLASS!!

2011-09-18T11:34:00.001-04:00

Trick or Treat seems to be SOOOO far off when you are a little one! Let's help them count the days with a Count Down Tree!

As many of you know, I LOVE Halloween, and I am SO ready to start decorating.... well, Bob, the Babe, says "Not Yet" ... unless it's new stuff I happen to be bringing in the house!! Welllll...... I just can't seem to stop creating new goodies to place here and there ... like this SPOOKY TREE and the box with a cool surprises inside !!!

Here's a SNEAK PEEK inside.... intrigued???? Want to make one yourself???? Got kids, or kids at heart, around your house that are excited about Halloween, Christmas, or would you love to begin a special tradition for Thanksgiving?

I am inviting you to join me for a live USTREAM CLASS on TUESDAY EVENING

SEPTEMBER 20th at 8:00 EASTERN TIME

(note Classes will be recorded, and you can go there any time and watch over and over again!)

Bring the supplies below, and let's make this Spooky Tree, the Mystery Box, and the other goodies inside, and have a LOT OF FUN together!!

If you have any questions, please leave me a comment, or send me an email at the address in my right sidebar.

Can't wait to "meet" you then!!!

Supplies I used in the Sample, but you can always adjust your design!

9 pcs. 12 x 12 black cardstock

3 pcs. cream cardstock

6 pcs. 12 x 12 Halloween paper or cardstock

black and brown distress ink

double sided tape

Liquid Glue

liquid glue

32 Jump Rings

Happy Hauntings Cartridge and Cricut

Scoring Board

Textured Table Favor for Breast Cancer

2011-09-06T02:04:00.000-04:00

Time to "Think Pink", Girls! ........

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and I'm sure many of us are working on special projects for that worthy cause. Today's Tutorial Tuesday video is a Table Favor, with a candy treat inside, that features Texture Plates to give the ribboned background. It is a fast and effective decoration for almost any occasion! I hope you like it!!

You can get the "Believe" digital image for only $1. from Digital Delights! Check out their store for a wide range of all sorts of great characters in black and white, and in full color.

Don't forget to schedule your mammogram... we've got to SAVE SECOND BASE!!

See you back here real soon!
Happy creating ~

Is It Trick or Treat Yet?

2011-08-23T01:24:00.001-04:00

I have missed you all! I have been traveling for a long time, and when I got home, we found something REALLY SCARY! Our house was covered in HAIRY MILDEW!! It was on our clothes, furniture, cabinets, and all sorts of stuff.... the good news is it wasn't on my craft paper... WHEW!! Anyway, that accounts for my absence since we have been home... getting things back in safe, clean order around here. Well, all of that creepy stuff has definitely put me in the mood for Halloween, so for Digital Delights video this week, I have called on Dracula Ridley and friends to come and play! I have a video for you today, on how I put in the bay window, (or a flat window if that is what you have). It's easy and very versatile... enjoy!

I'll see you again very soon! I'm working on some projects for my U-Stream channel coming up next week! Until then ...

Happy creating ~

Fly Away Celebration

2011-08-15T02:33:00.001-04:00

Tonight I went to a farewell party for a very special young friend whom I have know since she was born. She is leaving tomorrow morning to drive all the way across the country to begin attending BYU, and start a brand new chapter in her life... Times like this come to each of us, and it is a time to reflect and celebrate new beginnings, yet cherishing the relationships that will last a long, long time....

And so it is with my beloved HoneyBees... The time has come for the HoneyBees to Fly Away from the Hive over at BettyBee's Buzz. I am sad, yet happy at the same time. They all have achieved such success, that I am very excited for each of them! I have chosen a familiar theme for my party centerpiece to honor them.

The tutorial on how to create the centerpiece is over on BettyBee's Buzz...

Inside the card.

I am so very honored to have had the opportunity to be the Queen Bee to these amazing designers, and mostly my friends. Most of them have served on other design teams with me, and continue to work very hard throughout the industry. You will see their work in lots of places!!

I have listed a "tribute" to each of these amazing ladies on the blog. I do hope you will stop over and leave some "Honey" for these sweeties!!

What will I be doing?

Oh, I'll be staying busy, too. I will contiue to host Cricuteers in Paradise crops, and be a Tutorial Artist for Digital Delights, but am also very excited to be partnering with Wanda, and Kathy from PaperPhenomenon. to start a brand new company called WonderWorks Crops! This is something new to the industry, and we are so thrilled to bring it to you.

Please pop over to check out our first project! This is a CROP only deal... you have to come see us to get the aweome Haunted Chateau! OR invite us to come to you!! We travel :)

I know I will always be close to these ladies, because they aren't just a Design Team... they are my friends, my sisters that I chose... and I love them...

Happy Creating~

(We'll have one last post on Wednesday to show what the HoneyBees made for the Party!!! One last Showcase!!! We hope you will come by and leave them some honey :)

Wonder Works Crops Project

2011-08-12T13:32:00.000-04:00

Hi All-- here is a peek of the project we will be making for the First Wonder Works' Crop. More details to come. All details will be posted to the Wonder Works' Blog so be sure to follow. So excited!!! Here is a link to Wonder Works Crops

All About Textures!

2011-07-12T00:01:00.029-04:00

Today is Tuesday Tutorials at Digital Delights, and I have done a photo video to share how I created a smorgasbord of textures in this project! It has:

Glazing

Glittering

Flower Soft

Flocking

Embossing

Ribbon Pleating

Paper Piecing

Paper Punching

Faux Stone

Copics

Water Colors

Gels!

Mr. Gnome and his Mushrooms also have a Mushroom house and Sentiment that you can download from Digital Delights!

I hope you enjoy the video!

Happy Creating!

Recipe:

Digital Images: Mr. Gnome, Mushrooms, Sentiment from Digital Delights

Kraft, White and Red CS

Colors: Copics, Watercolor Pencils, Gel Pens

Adhesives: ATG, Dimensional Glue, Brushable Glue, Glossy Accents, Dimensionals, Quick Dry Wet

Embellishments: Glitter, Microbeads, Flower Soft, Sparkle Flock

Tools: Cuttlebug, Embossing Folders, Stylus, Mouse Pad, Punch

Red, White and Blue

2011-07-09T01:10:00.000-04:00

The Red, White and Blue theme abounds this week, and BettyBee'sBuzz is no exception! I am happy to share this digi dude all decked out in his patriotic finest. The papers are from Adorn It, and K and Company. Add the accents from a K and Company borders pack, and some red Stickles spots, and it's a Red, White, and Blue flag waving winner!

Blog Hop Winner!

2011-07-04T18:35:00.001-04:00

Thank you so much for coming by my blog, and checking out the Digital Delights Celebration Blog Hop!! I hope you enjoyed the journey, and were able to get all of the letters, and figure out the secret word.... good luck on the big drawing! Now for the WINNER of my prize...

"Luvin the USA Bongo: goes to.......

"Julie said...
I love the pup. Can't wait to come back later and check out your olders posts.
jzayler63@gmail.com
June 30, 2011 7:19 PM"

Julie, you will be contacted by Wendy at Digital Delights, and you will be getting Bongo!!

Thanks to everyone who is a new follower of my blog, as well! I hope you will find a little time to look around and find some of the things I've done in the past... there are LOTS of tutorials, projects I did when I was the DT Coordinator of Cuttlebug Challenge Blog, and a few other DT's....
I love to hear from you, and appreciate your comments so much!

Have a great Fourth of July, and I'll be back with you as soon as I can.... we are off on a long road trip tomorrow, but I will still be crafting along the way!

Happy creating ~

It's a Celebration Blog Hop! 30 June - 1 July!!!

2011-06-30T00:01:00.001-04:00

Hi! Welcome to the Digital Delights "It's a Celebration Blog Hop"!!! This is a 2 day hop to help you get through all 30 of our talented designers, collect your letters, and enter to win the grand prize!

If you came here from Audrey's then you are in the right spot! If you have just come across this posting while browsing around in blog land then start at the top so you don't miss all of the amazing projects!
The theme of this hop is CELEBRATIONS!! At Digital Delights by Louby Loo, we are celebrating the new store! Wendy (aka Louby Loo) just completed the move to a new and improved store! In honor of this, each stop along the way, the designer will have a Digital Delights stamp from their project to be given away. There are amazing sponsors for the grand prize at the end!
This is a hop with a different twist as along the hop there are letters to find in the postings - not all blogs have the letters, but if you gather all the letters then at the end of the hop, on day 2 assemble them to create a Digital Delights related word. You then return to the Digital Delights blog and enter your name in the inlinks at the bottom of the post (do not reveal the secret word yet). After the hop you will be contacted if you are selected at random--at which point you will be asked to reveal the correct word.

Now on to my project(s).

Here is Luvin' the USA Bongo, waiting for the Parade to go by!! He is all decked out in his patriotic scarf, and waving Old Glory!   I colored a visor with Copic Markers, spritzed it with Glimmer Mist, and added the stars trim, adhered with a glue gun. Bongo was colored with Copics and gel pens. He was attached with Scotch Quick-Dry Adhesive.


Here is the visor, along with the insulated cup I did for the Tuesday Tutorial video this week! Bongo is my favorite Patriotic Pup!!! I am ready to celebrate the holiday, and I hope you will be, too, with these easy projects.

I will be giving away the following Digital Delights by Louby Loo image which I used to complete my project:

In order to be eligible to receive this digital stamp, please leave a comment, and become a follower if you fancy. In your comment please provide an email address so that you can be contacted when I draw the prize.
Thanks for stopping by! I hope you liked my project.
Now back to the hop - I can now reveal my hidden blog hop letter is (F) Remember to collect all the letters from the hop and assemble to form a Digital Delights related word then return to the Digital Delights blog to enter.

The next stop on the hop is: Carley.

It's a Celebration Blog hop Lineup:

Happy creating!

4th of July Mini Album

2011-06-29T02:40:00.000-04:00

It's time for those incredible accordion ablums to come back.... and what better subject than Baby's first Fourth of July??

It is Patriotic Mini Album week at BettyBee's Buzz so I decided to create a special brag book for Erin's other Grandma, since she is so far away. These little books are very easy to make, and have a ton of "real estate" (as my friend Kathy says!)

This shows the layout of one side, with spaces for 4x4 photos, journaling, and some cute embellishments. The other side has two more full squares behind the covers.

And here is a close up of how it looks behind the cover, and a little of the stamping and doodling that gives it such a charming look. I hope you will give it a try~

If you have never made an album like this one.. I have done a YouTube video, and you can find it here.

Recipe:

K&Co Americana CS

Sonburn CS

StudioG Stamps

CTMH Inks and Markers

Versamark Ink

Memento Tuxedo Black Ink

White Embossing Powder

Nestability Scalloped Rectangle

Cuttlebug

Scallop Circle Punch (1 3/8")

Gold, Red, Blue, White gel pens

Offray Ribbon

ATG

Scotch Quick-Dry Adhesive

Star trim from stash

Stampin' Up! Dimensionals

♥♥♥♥♥

Have a wonderful weekend, and if you are here in the USA, please take the opportunity to truly celebrate the freedoms and liberties that we enjoy and hold dear, and share their true value with a child. Say the Pledge of Allegiance with them... express your gratitude for our Soldiers and Sailors... tell them what Patriotism is... believe it or not, many don't know... trust me, I've asked, and it's pretty sad when they really have no idea. We owe them a lot. God bless you, and God bless the USA.

Stars and Stripes Heavy Metal

2011-06-28T01:00:00.001-04:00

It's Tutorial Tuesday at Digital Delights, and I am pleased to do another fun video for you! Today's project is a metallic liner for an insulated drinking cup.

Here we have Luvin' In the USA Bongo, declaring that he is Proud to be an American, on a bed of shiny stripes and shimmery stars. To find out how to create this fun project, click here!

Happy creating ~

Cupcakes with a Kiss!

2011-06-20T02:46:00.000-04:00

Today is the beginning of Food, Glorious Food week over at BettyBee's Buzz so I am sharing these mouth-watering morsels! The cupcake queen, Tori, shared how to add a Hershey's Kiss to the center of a cupcake and create a delicious surprise center!

The recipe is so easy! It calls for a regular cake mix and the stuff to prepare it normally. Plus Hershey Kisses, and today I looked in my stash and found a really good assortment of 7 different flavors!

Here you can see where I placed the little paper "flag" from the Kiss inside the cupcake liner, so the flavor of Kiss is identified BEFORE you take a bite of the cupcake... HA! All instructions are on

BettyBee's Buzz :)

The images are from a darling cooking set from Crafty Secrets, and they are colored with Copics. The "ghost" image is stamped with Memento's London Fog ink, so it appears to be in the background, and doesn't interfere with the printed lettering.

Make your cupcake topper, sandwiching a toothpick between two punched pieces, and you've got a neat treat!

Here is the cupcake dessert stand for Father's Day, featuring the downloadable selection I shared last week, from Shindig's Parties To Go! What a fun party pack, and the Cupcakes With A Kiss were a big hit!

Until next time....

Happy creating!

Ellie, the Get Well-ephant!

2011-06-14T02:37:00.000-04:00

It has long been a tradition with our family that we have a Get Well-ephant when someone is in the hospital or home sick for a long time. I have created other things where folks could sign a get well poster, etc., but today's tutorial over at Digital Delights is the first mini album I've created for such a purpose.

It features the delightful Ellie from the Jungle Buddies collection, and is also covered with digital paper that has Miss Ellie all over it.

The inside is a delightful array of squares and triangles that provide a TON of real estate for recording a lot of Get Well love, which we all know is the very best medicine! I hope you will pop over and check it out!

Happy creating!

"I Feel the Love" for Mrs. Pentoney

2011-06-13T01:33:00.001-04:00

Happy Monday! School is out, and Bob the Babe is recovering nicely... it's a great day!
I have a special card I want to share with you today. This is for a very special project, and I hope you will ALL join in!

My talented young friend, Madison, of Funky Cards, has started a mission to send cards to someone that is in need of feeling the love from the rest of us. This month she has chosen a teacher that is battling her second round of cancer, yet continues to influence the lives of students in Madison's high school. She hopes to collect a whole LOT of cards to share with Mrs. Pentoney by the end of the month. Follow this LINK to check out Madison's project.

Recipe:
White GP Cardstock
Sizzix Cancer Ribbons Embossing plate
Smooch Illuminations and Gold Lame' Ink
Just Rite Stampers 2" Hope sentiment
Star Spangled Blue ink by Close To My Heart
Tiny pearls
Gold Offray Ribbon
Foam dimensional dots

One of the hottest looks around this summer is the joyful pinwheel! Did you make them when you were a kid? Are you making them as decorations and embellishments? They are super easy to make, and of, so much fun to pop all around for summer decorating! HoneyBee Court Lee has a terrific tutorial over at BettyBee's Buzz on how to make them... and I've added a little P.S. if you want to make yours spin!
I hope you'll check it out, and give it a try! Let's take it for a spin .... wheeeeeeeeee :)

High Flying Birthday!

2011-06-10T00:58:00.001-04:00

June 10th is a busy day for Birthdays! It seems that several folks I know, plus several more that they know, are celebrating today! Happy Birthday, one and all!

Today is grandson Porter's third birthday, and he wants an AIRPLANE birthday party! Mom has gotten a Cricut cartridge with an airplane, and is busy creating all sorts of cute themed decorations.

This plane is from the Cricut New Arrivals cartridge. The stitched "contrail" is inspired by one of you!

Unfortunately, for the life of me, I can't find it tonight, so I can give you proper credit! I thought I knew who it was, and where to go get your great tutorial, so I could show off your delightful card, and the cheerful green "Happy".... and you showed us how to use your word processing program to choose the best font to create a template, and then poke the holes to make it easy to do... Somebody help me out here, and leave me the info, so I can give credit where credit is due!

EDITED: Our talented friend, Lauren Bergold of "All the GOOD Blog Names Were Taken" and "Jingle Belles" was the artist that created the tutorial! Please head over and check it out. You won't be disappointed!

This is the inside of the card, and when you're three, colorful and easy to count is best... and more single dollar bills are better than less bigger denominations!

Today is also my friend Court Lee's birthday! Her favorite color is olive green, and this is the first I've used of my new DCWV Lemon Flower paper stack. Yummy! I fussy cut the lower right flower and popped up several layers, plus some additional Stickles to add even more bling to the razzle dazzle. Using a Versamark pen to outline the Spellbinders die while the paper was still in it, made it very easy to get this silver heat embossed inner frame.

Happy birthday, HoneyBee Court!

Working on some publication submissions this weekend, and getting ready for a Cricut Swarm, so my mojo is working in overdrive! It feels good....

I hope you are feeling creative, too.

See you on Monday, if not before!

Chevron - not gasoline!

2011-06-08T01:00:00.000-04:00

One of the hottest new trends is the zig-zag design of the chevron... the sargent stripes on a military uniform, or ric-rac trim... that great up and down look. The HoneyBees were inspired by a great challenge and article in PaperCrafts magazine, and we have explored it a bit ourselves this week. I do hope you will pop over both places and have a look. This is my effort.

I took a piece of striped paper from the Imaginisce Happy Day paper pack (stash from 2008!) and cut a strip 12 inches long, then cut three inch pieces. I laid the shorter pieces at the angle I wanted on my paper trimmer, creating the points. Be SURE to flip one upside down, so you get matching points, or all of your points will be headed the same direction... (want to know how I know?... hahahaha) Then match up your points and add a bit of tape on the back to hold. Very easy. I thought a bit of zig-zag stitching was the right touch, too.

The sticker covered chipboard sentiment was part of the paper pack, as was the confetti background paper. I added the Glam Rocks with my I-Rock, and this project was in the books!

Won't you give Chevrons a try this week, and share your project with us at BettyBee's Buzz??? We'd LOVE to come and see what you have created!

Have a great week!

Stars and Stripes Forever

2011-06-01T02:28:00.000-04:00

Today at BettyBee's Buzz, the HoneyBees are tearing and ripping up cardboard boxes! This is what I did with mine :) I also recycled a Diet Coke can to create the blue field of stars, by coloring the aluminum with a Copic marker, then spritzing it with alcohol, and embossing with the Cuttlebug. It is very easy to cut with scissors. My star was hand cut. The button is tied with gold metallic crochet cotton. The two sentiment stamps were heat embossed in cobalt blue. Finish off with three sparkly gems, and this card is worthy of a snappy salute!

I do hope you will make two stops today... One at BettyBee's Buzz to check out the rest of the HoneyBee creations... and leave them some love! And TWO to join Madison in her kick off for I Feel the Love at Funky Cards. This spunky teenager, with a heart of gold, will be spearheading a great program to gather cards for a worthy recipient.

Thanks for stopping by, and, as always... have a great day, and smile, share, and make someone happy!

Happy creating~

New DT Position :)

2011-05-31T01:12:00.000-04:00

It's my honor to announce that I am the new Tutorial Artist at Digital Delights, and today is my first video! I have done a Magnetic Bookmark project, that incorportates a little gift right on the card. This thank you features Laidback Lucy, You're #1, the Watermelon, and the digital paper "Ants Picnic" all from the Grillin and Chillin release at Digital Delights. I hope you will pop over and check out my video and make up some summer reading bookmarks!!!

Summertime, and the Livin' is Easy!

2011-05-25T02:26:00.001-04:00

SO, when you think of summertime, what memories pop into your head? Do you remember skate keys? the ice cream man? playing tag in the dark? catching lightning bugs? going camping? cruising the drive in? how about drive-in movies? Did your pool open up Memorial Day weekend, and the water was FREEEEEEZZINNNNGGG ~ but you went anyway? Oh, the memories! And our kids are making theirs just like we did!

This week at BettyBee's Buzz we are all taking a walk down memory lane, and hope you will be joining us. I have the last day of school in mind with the sneak peek project you see here. My daughter has an end of school party for the grands and their friends when they get off of the bus the last day... (or is it for the bus driver?! hehehe) I have used the SUN and the HERE COMES THE SUN papers from the new Grillin' and Chillin' release from Digital Delights, and started on some FUN in the SUN party pieces. I have several more pieces to this party project, and you can learn to make all of them at my very first USTREAM class! It will be posted very soon, in conjunction with the most awesome Pita Queen, KATHY at Paper Phenomenon! I DO hope you will be joining me :)

Cupcake wrappers are so much fun, but with co-ordinated papers, they really make a statement!

Add your own custom designed water bottle labels! (Sneak peek here! More to come later!)

And who knew that cupcake wrappers were the perfect fit for snack cups?! An assortment of favorite treats is always a welcome sight!

In the meantime, make a BEE-LINE over to BettyBee's Buzz, and bee inspired by those talented HoneyBees, and leave a comment about what YOU did in the summertime, and then create something summery, and you could be one of TWO winners this week!!! YEP! Two prize packages up for grabs!

Happy creating~

Happy Birthday to a Friend!

2011-05-22T09:24:00.000-04:00

Good morning! It's Birthday week at Whoopsi Daisy, and that is perfect, because it's also Happy Birthday to my HoneyBee friend, Judy!

For this card I used my new Wrap It Up Cricut Cartridge and found it to be OH, SO EASY to cut a shaped card, and then add all of the trim with the borders from the Martha Stewart Elegant Cakes Cricut Cartridge that hubby gave me for Mother's Day~

The little lady image is from Whoopsi Daisy, and she is colored with Copics, and the whole thing is accented with lots of Stickles!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JUDY!!!

See you all tomorrow with a new tutorial at BettyBee's Buzz!

Something old, NEW, borrowed, and blue!

2011-05-18T02:23:00.000-04:00

Happy Wednesday! It's HoneyBee Showcase day, and we are all ABuzz about our challenge with our guest HoneyBee, Amy Sheffer, of Pickled Paper Designs! She gave us the challenge of coming up with something brought to mind by the recent Royal Wedding... we are to use something old, something new, something borrowed, and something blue. It doesn't have to be a wedding creation.. just have those elements. Have any of you ever heard the additonal line of "and a penny (or a dime) in your shoe"? I did, and had a dime from the year that I was born in my shoe, so I would never be broke :) I still have that dime.... Awwwww. Don't you just love traditions?

Well, here is my card for the challenge, and a fun NEW tutorial for you!

I started out with OLD paper, the blue background 12x12 cardstock is from the first big paper stack I bought when I started card making umpteen years ago!

My something NEW is the card design!! I was inspired by a store bought card that my Mom received some time back, and I figured an adaptation for us! Oh, how I wish you could see this in motion! The insides truly wave at you!!!

My something BORROWED is knowledge. I used the search feature at MyCutSearch.com to find the "Fish" and "Water" cuts on all of my Cricut Cartridges! Wow! What a great site. So easy to use, and all of the books are there, so you can see at a glance what all of the extras are on every cartridge!

And, of course, my something BLUE is pretty obvious! I do hope you will pop over to BettyBee's Buzz to check out the tutorial that Amy shared with us, as well as her bio and interview. Then check out Wednesday's post where the HoneyBee's Showcase their take on the challenge, and give you plenty of inspiration to get you going. There will be a prize package for our winner, too! How about letting it be YOU!

Well, I had so much fun creating the new design for the fishy card above that I decided to show you another one, and give the directions so you can make one for yourself!

First, for an A2 size card (5.5 x 4.25), begin with a piece of cardstock 12 x 5.5 inches.

You will make 9 score marks on it, so that it will have four mountain/valley folds. The folds are 3/8 of an inch high. Note: A Martha Stewart scoring board is very helpful, as it has 1/8 inch scoring lines, but you can do it by measuring and using a paper trimmer and stylus, or any other scoring tool. Beginning at the left end, score at 4 1/2, 4 7/8, 5 1/4, 5 5/8, 6, 6 3/8, 6 3/4, 7 1/8, 7 1/2. Score your lines very sharply so the card will close flat. Add score tape or redline tape to the front of each mountain fold, as shown.

I cut five 6 inch borders for my cards. One for the front and four for the inside. After adhering them to the mountains, I trimmed the ends. I used waves for the fish card, and grass and cattails for this one. The cattails made perfect flower holders.

Embellish as desired. In the first card I had written the message, and the bottom one was computer generated. Stamping would work very well, too. The flowers were all punched... quick and easy! The movement of the flowers is so delightful!! When you open the card they just dance :) It surely brings a smile to your face!

I do hope you will give it a try. If you have ANY questions, Please leave me a comment, or send me an email. I will be more than happy to help.

Happy creating~

Santa Claus is Coming...

2011-05-17T21:21:00.001-04:00

It's time for another great challenge with Lauren and Jen over at Jingle Belles, and this week it is to feature our favorite Jolly Old Elf himself... Santa Claus!

For my card I started with a tip from Becca Feeken at Amazing Paper Grace, where she recommended picking up some great cards at Michael's dollar spot last year... and adding embellishments. Here I added the sentiment, ribbon, embossed oval and a digital image of Santa. The image was colored with watercolors, but the photo doesn't do him justice... he looks a bit on the pale side (needs a bit of summer sunshine!). I've added Liquid Glass to his glasses, the holly berries, and his eyes to make them shine! I hope you are getting a head start on taking back December, too.

See you tomorrow at Betty Bee's Buzz with our guest HoneyBee, Amy Sheffer, and her Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, and Something Blue challenge!

Happy creating ~

Also entered at:

Christmas Card Challenges: fibers

Celebrate Spring!

2011-05-16T14:37:00.000-04:00

Today's challenge at Whoopsi Daisy is all about using punches.

This little fellow is a Whoopsi Daisy image, and I have used four different punches

and two Nestabilities in the design. Can you spot them?

He is colored with Copics, and the paper is from K&Co., and DCWV Calendar pages.

The stamped image is from my untitled stash... sorry.

Have you checked out BettyBee's Buzz for our Monday Motivational today?

We are all abuzz about having AMY SHEFFER as our guest HONEYBEE this week!!!

Here is the design she has created for our Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue Challenge!!! Won't you come on over, learn some great things about Amy, and join in the challenge this week?!!!

Happy creating ~

Altered Photographs

2011-05-11T01:00:00.001-04:00

Good morning! I knew you would love to share this delicious delight first thing this morning...

Could there be anything any sweeter?

This week at BettyBee's Buzz is all about Altered Photos, and this is my project. I am still at the hospital with Bob the Babe, and didn't have much in the way of supplies, but am very happy with this little beauty. It was VERY simple to do. One B&W print + three Copics = a whole new look!

I discovered that Copics still blend wonderfully on photo paper, and are sheer enough to let the natural shadows show through. It is still best to add different intensities of color to get the best results.

I hope you will join us for the HoneyBee Showcase

to see what the other members of the Design Team have created to inspire you!

Hoppy Mother's Day!

2011-05-08T20:06:00.000-04:00

Today is a day for honoring our Mom's and those who are like Mom's in the lives of children. I am so blessed to have a wonderful Mom, and I get to visit with her pretty often. I spoke with her on the phone a little while ago. I won't get to see her today because I am at the hospital with my hubby, as he recovers from knee replacement surgery. It's Okay... we'll get together soon. I love my Mom so much, and am so glad to have her as a very special friend, too. I am also blessed to have two very special daughters and a daughter in law that are also great Moms! If you have been following my blog, you know that we have two brand new babies in the family in the past month or so. Here are the cards I made for the girls :) They are digital images that I downloaded, altered, and then added Copic colors.

This is for Tori, and her four little tadpoles! Hoppy Mother's Day!

This one is for Barbie, and has her two little froggies sitting with her!

And, this is to honor Brianne's very FIRST Mother's Day!

Can you see the tiny little tadpole they are holding?

I have made something special to put in each card... I don't want to spoil the surprise...you'll all have to wait to find out what it is!

I hope you had a marvelous Mother's Day, if you are a mother, a potential mother, or if you are one who touches the lives of a child... remember your influence lasts a lifetime, and you are making memories... make them great ones!

Three Tiered Cards

2011-05-04T02:28:00.000-04:00

God Bless the USA!

This week at BettyBee's Buzz we had a tutorial by HoneyBee Judy on how to make three tiered slider cards, and I was contemplating my design, when really big things happened in the news. At that time I also saw three long ignored stamps sitting by my desk, and I knew this was exactly what I wanted to create. This was one of those times when the card just sort of created itself :)

The paper is the All American Collection by AdornIt. The stamps are by Joanne Sharpe and Westwater Enterprises (both quite old). I also used Cricut Plantain Schoolbook for the star; a circle punch; the Cuttlebug Stars folder; Elmer's Gold Leaf pen; ribbon by Offray; silver star stickers; glue dots and ATG.

Here is the same three tiered design in a Mother's Day card:

Here we have it fully opened to it's three tiered glory!

This shows the center section a little closer. These papers are from Crafty Secrets.

And here it is, all closed up, and ready for presentation.

The paper is Bella Boulevard (I think!) The flowers are from Wild Orchid, ribbon is Offray, and "Mom" is cut from the "Mommy" on the Cricut Heritage cartridge.

I have to admit that at first this tutorial was a bit confusing sounding, but there is a link to a video, and that helped a LOT! But, once you try it, it gives you one of those AH, HA! moments, and it is not hard at all! I do hope you will give these three tiered wonders a try, and link them up at BettyBee's Buzz!

Making memories IS a wonderful thing to do... I hope you make some special memories with someone who has influenced you this week. Happy Mother's Day if I don't get to make another post before then. (Hubby is having knee replacement surgery, so I might be tied up).

Happy crafting ~

New DT Position :)

2011-05-03T01:30:00.000-04:00

A challengeing Challenge!

2011-05-01T01:14:00.000-04:00

Today's challenge at Whoopsi Daisy is to create something with NO LAYERS!

Well, I love working with digital images, and one of the best features is printing them out in the size you want. One great thing about Whoopsi Daisy images is getting the bargain of FOUR images on a sheet, SO when I printed out my super adorable firefighter, I needed to cut him away from the cute little girls that came on the sheet around him!

Therefore, I think I still qualify for "no layers" since I didn't add mats around the outside of the card, or under the image and the sentiment, don't you!?! Ha!

Here he is in close up. I colored him with Copics, and added a little shadow with water color pencils. The edges of both circles are inked to make them POP! This paper is from the Imaginisce Birthday Bash collection. The sentiment is Stampin' Up!

I have a little tid bit for you about the little red gems at the bottom... they are custom colored, just for this project!

First, start with Imaginisce white Metallic Glam Rocks, a sticky back note, and a permanent marker in the perfect color!

Stick the Glam Rocks to the sticky strip on the back of the note, so they stay put while you color them to match your project! (Duh, why didn't I think of this sooner???!!!)

Attach with your battery operated I-Rock, and sit back and smile at your beautiful creation!!

One last look at our Happy Birthday card! This little fellow can handle a BUNCH of candles, and as the sentiment says... The more Candles, the BIGGER the Wish!

Do head over to Whoopsi Daisy and check out the rest of the Design Team's take on the No Layer Challenge, and see Linnie's darling images. You can order them very easily, and enjoy coloring them for your next creations!

Happy crafting ~

Easter Basket Baby and Iris Folding!

2011-04-25T03:33:00.000-04:00

Good morning, and welcome to Monday musings here! I have news! We have all been a-buzz about IRIS FOLDING over at BettyBee's Buzz, and our HoneyBee, Wanda, was going to do a great tutorial on it today, however, she's a bit under the weather at the moment, so your's truly is doing the honors! BUT FIRST...I want to show you what was in our Easter Basket!!

Meet our newest granddaughter, Erin Amanda, who was born on Thursday! Just add bunny ears, and the Just Hatched outfit that I made with the Freezer Paper technique that we showcased a couple of weeks ago! How cute is this???

And, is there anything more precious than this??? Her little bloomers were exactly the same colors as some of the eggs... Thanks, Easter Bunny (And Mommy Brianne and Daddy Doug!)!!!

**************

Now, on with our regularly scheduled programming!

This is IRIS FOLDING! It is a very old technique, that originated in Holland, and is called this, because the opening in the center represents the IRIS of a camera, or the eye. There are a few basic folding shapes, and myriads of cut aperture (opening) shapes to lay over the top. It is a very easy craft to follow, and the results are quite fun.

This is a budget friendly class, as this is one of many FREE patterns available on the internet!!

This is also a great project for scraps!

Here are my beautiful folded paper strips, all laid out in color specific order just waiting to become a gorgeous flower!

For my project, I decided to do a five petal flower. I chose one from George, a Cricut Cartridge, You can cut your design opening with any die cutting machine, embossing machine, or by hand.
Isn't that neat! And look at the IRIS in the center! This is the PENTAGON pattern, and the five sided shape is very evident! Now it's time to finish the center.

I opted to repeat the yellow paper that I had used on the outside of the card, and then added a gorgeous pink gem to reflect the pinks in the papers.

Here is my finished card. It is a special "thank you" for a friend who gave me a great big pad of scrapbook paper... and these came out of it! Adhering the card front to the card base with dimensionals is helpful in compensating for the bulk of the paper and tape. It doesn't look thick or awkward at all.

I do hope you will make a bee--line over to BettyBee's Buzz and follow the tutorial, and give it a try! Come back on Wednesday and see what the HoneyBees have created, and that is where you will find the link to post your IRIS FOLDING projects! I will try to get a ribbon project done for you by then.... want to see one???

Happy creating ~

Christmas with the Jingle Belles

2011-04-20T00:59:00.000-04:00

What a delight it has been to be designing with the fabulous girls from the Jingle Belles blog! Lauren and Stef have a great idea, in keeping up with making Christmas cards all year long! It made me sad to put away so much of my Christmas stuff after the season, and realized that I hadn't touched 80% of it. Now I have the opportunity, {and motivation} to keep creating all year.

I created two different kinds of cards for this week's challenge, which is to use die cuts on our cards. The first was definitely a stretch for me.

This is my first card for this week's challenge. I must admit that it was a bit out of my comfort zone... this the "challenge" part... but I like it! I was actually inspired by a commercially produced card that I saw a while back. The papers are all from Echo Park's "Merry Christmas" collection. The J and Y are cut from the Cricut StoryBook cartridge, manipulated with my Gypsy to make them fit the opening. The festive ornament is from the coordinated sticker dies that come with the Echo Park paper pack, as is the sentiment. The gems are from Studio 18.

Now, this one is more my usual style :) The Magnolia image is a stamp, and she is colored with Copics and accented with Stickles. The tree is cut from Cricut's Joys of the Season cartridge, first in shadow, and then in layer, and decorated with Studio 18 gems. The beautiful Holly paper is Paper Studio, "Season's Greetings" from Hobby Lobby. The etherial blue glittered swirl background is My Mind's Eye "Countdown to Christmas". The snowflake is a die cut from Cuttlebug, finished off with a glittered brad in the center, and the vellum and rub-on sentiment are from my stash.

We have challenges and prizes at both blogs, and we sure would love to hear from you! Please come by and leave us comments, and then pull out your goodies, pop in your favorite Christmas CD, and have a really good time getting a couple of cards ready for a much less stressful December in your world! Plus, you could be a winner, winner, chicken dinner! HA!
There is a quick turn-around on this one... you need to post your project at BettyBee's Buzz before 6:00 PM eastern time on Thursday, April 21st, and we will choose a winner that night. The winner will be announced on Friday, April 22nd during Buzz, Brag and Bee Happy! Happy creating and good luck!

Freezer Paper on Paper!

2011-04-13T01:44:00.000-04:00

If you recall from Monday's post, I said I'd be back with another type of project, and it is using the Freezer Paper stenciling project on paper. So Cool!!

My additional project is the "retitling" of a special book that I made for my grandkids for Christmas. Little fingers have picked at the original vinyl lettering, so this new stenciled lettering is now permanent.

It is VERY easy to iron the FREEZER PAPER to cardstock. Then carefully paint your lettering.
I cut the title from the Base Camp Cricut cartridge, and spaced it out just like I wanted it with my Gypsy. This ABC project has 26 4x6 mounted photos, with the "definitions" written on each page with a silver Elmer's Paint Marker.

Each page was scored at the end, and it was bound in a cardstock cover made for the Your Story by Provo Craft. This is an easy project to create. It features Church pictures and a few personal photos of family and friends, which make it even more exciting for the children.

To make it a personal treasure, be sure to add a testimony page from you to your loved ones. This started on the front side, and these are the finishing thoughts.

Two year old Porter has loved this special book, and delights in sharing his knowledge of the Gospel ABC's. I plan to make one for each young family. I got this idea from another blogger, and I sincerely apologize for not giving her credit here and now. I am away from my home computer, (as most of you know) and the link is back at home. I will amend this post as soon as I get the proper information. If you are interested in the link to the photos, please leave a comment or send me an email, and I'll be happy to send them to you. I hope you will be participating in the Freezer Paper challenge over at BettyBee's Buzz this week. We have a lot of different projects to whet your whistle! I'm headed back to Florida in the morning. It will be hard to leave these precious little ones and their parents, whom I love so much, but I will be happy, too, to get back to my dear hubby, and the other little family waiting there. Another precious granddaughter is about to enter this world, and Nana is anxious to meet her. Blessings and Happy Creating!!

Fabric Painted Projects with Freezer Paper

2011-04-11T03:39:00.000-04:00

Happy Monday! I hope you had a great weekend. Today it's my delight to share with you our
Monday Motivational over at BettyBee's Buzz ! Last week was baby week, and we had so much fun with our designs, and the projects that were submitted (PS Still time for you to add yours!) So this week, we are jumping off from Court's precious Onesies that she decorated with her YuDu. Well,,,, since not too many of us have a YuDu, I thought it would be fun to revisit an old favorite, that we haven't seen in a while...
Reynolds FREEZER PAPER stenciling!
Here are the projects that I have shared today, and the info on how to do your own is here:

A precious posy for Miss Paisley.

Just Hatched chick from Easter 2010 cartridge.

Our Super Model wearing her Just Hatched shirt! She was a little bit tired, and ready for bed, but she loved her new shirt!

Even nubby fabrics work really well with this technique!

Here are today's projects, and there will be more on Wednesday! I hope you are excited about trying out this really fun, and very easy technique!

Have you ever done this before? Will you try it now? I'd love to hear from you!

Be sure to check out the tutorial here, and on Wednesday, you can join in the BettyBee's Buzz challenge!

Don't forget to squeeze all of your little loved ones! Show them how much they mean to you. Memories are made in the moments we share together!

Happy creating ~

Pirate Presley Kicks Booty!

2011-04-07T02:28:00.000-04:00

Arrrrr, Mateys!! It's New Release Day over at Digital Deligths by LoubyLoo, and it looks like the place is overrun with Pirates!!

You will find Presley, Prissy, a whole assortment of accessories, and even a complete set of sentiments, as well as a wonderful array of coordinated pirate papers.

My project uses three digital images... Presley the Pirate, the treasure chest, and the Pirates Kick Booty sign. The beauty of digital images is being able to print them any size you like, as well as being able to flip them so you have a mirror image.

For my treasure chest I printed it twice, once in flip, so I could have a front and back,

then added a 2 inch wide cardstock strip, scored and folded 1/4 inch all the way along each side, adhered down one side, across the bottom, and back up the other side, to create an open box.

(Sorry I don't have a picture to show this... I am away from home, and those photos are on the other computer! If you have questions, please leave a comment, and I'll add more when I get home!)

I trimmed the finger/thumb line on Presley's hand so he could hold the Kick Booty sign, and secured him to the side of the treasure chest. Add candy, and you've got great Booty!!

Everything was colored with Copic markers, and the gems were highlighted with Smooch inks. It's too bad the lighting doesn't show how shimmery they really are!

Check out these great Pirates, and you've got everything you need for your next invasion!

Happy creating! And take time to reach out to someone who has made a difference in your life, and let them know. May you be blessed today.

Display Cards - a new design!

2011-04-06T02:30:00.000-04:00

When I was working on some very special cards this past week, I came up with a brand new design, and I am excited to share it with you! I have three different examples here today.

First is a baby card for my new granddaughter, Paisley. It is designed to be able to stand up on a shelf, yet fold flat, so it can be mailed in a regular A2 envelope.

The secret is the addition of a tab on the inside. Here you will see three little hearts. They are an important part of the design!

This is the front of a wedding card for Ashley and Steven, who are getting married on Saturday!

When I made their card, it was theirs that gave me the idea to score it so that they might display it, should they want to.... and the rest is history, as they say!

Are you ready for the tutorial? It's really pretty easy!

The cardstock is cut at 5 1/2 x 11

Score the first score at 3 3/4 inches.

The next score is 8 inches from the left edge.

The next score is 9 1/4.

The first section is your card front.

For the baby card, I covered it with another piece of 5 1/2 x 3 3/4 paper.

For the wedding card, I embossed it with a Cuttlebug embossing folder.

The second section is the inside of the card, and perfect for adding extra accents, like the "Welcome", "Happily Ever After" and the heat embossed message on the birthday card below.

The last two sections were also embossed with a smaller repeatable pattern. This can sometimes be a little bit tricky, because it means your card and embossing folder won't go through the embossing machine sideways.... you will have to emboss the biggest part, and then CAREFULLY match up the pattern, and repeat to get the rest. It isn't hard, just be careful, and you will have a nice design.

NOTE: If you have a SideKick, the small plate is just the right size for placing over the part you are embossing second, without re-embossing the first part. Just use the regular plate on the bottom and the little one on the top.

Score all the lines, and it will have a nice flat bottom to stand on.

To keep the card stable, you need a tab on the inside to tuck the bottom flap into. See the hearts on the baby card? There is also one heart on the wedding card. That is the tab. Just place adhesive on the bottom of the heart (balloon, star, or whatever is appropriate for your design) and leave the top unattached, so the flap can slide under it. (Dimensionals don't work.... they leave too big a gap.)

This little Owl birthday card for my granddaughter Madelyn, who is 11 today, is a slight variation to the Display Card, as it doesn't tuck to the inside.... the little owl feet hold it together with the flap on the outside.

Happy Birthday, Madelyn!!

I hope you have enjoyed the tutorial, and will give it a try. It really is a fun design, and it's nice to get a special card to stand on display. I am very fond of the different textures together.

It's Baby Week at BettyBee's Buzz, and we'd love for you to create something for a baby in your life and share it with us. The HoneyBees have a lot of inspiration to get you started. Check them out!

What do you think? I'd love to hear your comments!

Happy crafting ~ and don't forget to hug your loved ones! (Especially the Bedlamites!!) Special hugs to my Mom today. It would have been Mom and Dad's 60th Wedding Anniversary. I love you, Mom! (and I miss you, Dad).

Introducing Our Newest Granddaughter!

2011-04-01T06:13:00.000-04:00

I am so delighted to introduce you to my newest granddaughter, Miss Paisley Ann!

I didn't make it to Colorado quite quick enough to be here for her birth, but it's okay, she is very happy to see me, and I am so happy to be here with her!

Is there anything any cuter than baby tiny little feet? (This photo is especially for my Mom, who always checks out the tiny toes right away!)

Big brother, Porter, was just precious waiting and waiting to meet his brand new little sister... she was out being bathed, and getting a check up when he got to the hospital, so he had to wait so paitently....

Finally, Here she comes!! He brought her a soft, chenille bunny from the gift shop, with Aunt Tori's help.

A tender, sweet first kiss from a loving big brother. He is SO good with her.

Tender moments with Aunt Tori.

Here I am meeting our sweet girl for the first time. She is such an easy going baby!

Porter brought her a flower!
Mommy and Daddy are doing very well, and things are going smoothly. She is the most content little thing! I've hardly heard her make a peep!

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I've created a couple of cards this week, but those can wait for the next post. I hope you are enjoying some happy moments in your life. Treasure your family and friends. Tell them that you love them...

Stand for what you believe in, and make a difference in the lives of others.
We have suffered the loss of a long time friend this week. We have been close to Ken and his family for more than twenty years, and I teach school with him. He was one of the most respected teachers I have ever met. He literally touched the lives of thousands of students and their families. My daughter taught at his school. He was a Tae Kwon Do Master, as well as a history teacher, father, husband, grandfather, and friend. For no known reason, he was shot to death in his own doorway this week. He will be truly missed, and our school will never be the same.

Rest in Peace, Master Ken Ellis.

Welcome to Mish Mash Monday!

2011-03-28T01:00:00.003-04:00

I'm calling it that, because it's a post full of a variety of good things :)

First is this Crocheted Lucky Penny project by our Brand New Design Team Member

over at BettyBee's Buzz ~

HoneyBee Judy Ford!!!

Second, these are my two furbabies, Rusty and Dusty, being hoot!

This is 50 pounds of cat in a bathtub! Aren't they cute? Awww ...

OK, one more try..... here is the ribbon that absolutely REFUSED to be posted yesterday....

hoping for better luck today! I will wear it proudly for Baby Paisley, and again in a couple of weeks for another new granddaughter coming up soon!! (Lots of glittery goodness on there!!)

Last, but certainly not least, is a card I made for a very special friend, and then made a BIG GOOF. I thought it was mailed a couple of weeks ago, and when cleaning out a tote bag, I found it this morning :0

I was even with her since then, and could have hand delivered it, if I had realized it. Oh, well... the snail mail will have to do it for me. My friend will know my heart was in it, even if my brain wasn't♥

The little pink flowers were really fun... just punch them from colored typing weight paper, then spritz with rubbing alcohol (it dries very quickly!) while wet, fold and then roll to create the texture, then unroll, and when it dries, it makes a really pretty flower, that has a great dimension!

Have a great week! I'm flying off to Denver to meet my new Granddaughter! I can't wait to hug my Daughters and Son-in-law, and my 2 3/4 year old Grandson, too!

Happy crafting ~

It's a Girl!!!

2011-03-27T11:45:00.008-04:00

(I just don't get it ~ I have uploaded the ribbon photo at least a dozen times, and it shows up, but won't show on the published blog - sorry!)

We have had some excitement in the Brett household this week!!

I made this ribbon pin to wear to school on Friday to announce the good news!

Meet my new Granddaughter, Paisley:) Sorry it's not the greatest picture, but it came from my cell phone. The picture on the right is of her Aunt Tori, who has a birthday tomorrow! Isn't that amazing? You know they are going to have a very special relationship. Tori was there where Paisley was born. I will be getting there on Tuesday. Can't wait!

I will see you tomorrow on BettyBee's Buzz!

Twist that Twine!

2011-03-23T01:00:00.002-04:00

It's Twine Week at BettyBee's Buzz, and I did two cards to play with it!

I am so thankful for my friend, Court's, video on how to do a spiral twist with twine, that she showed on Monday, on BettyBee's Buzz. She showed how to cover a button, and it was so cool! Here I have used the same technique on the sun, and it was really easy to do! The little bunnies playing in the trees are from the Cricut "Give a Hoot" cartridge. I hand wrote the sentiment with my favorite Signo white pen.

This Tilda card is going out to a very special "Cupcake Designer" who is having a birthday next week!!! I can't tell you how old she will be, because it will make me feel too old! (How is it possible that our kids get older than we are????) I know she will see this before she gets it in the mail, but she won't know what is coming inside of it :) Happy Birthday, Tori! The embossing folder is from Sizzix, and the coloring is with Copics. The round sentiment is from Stampin' Up!.
I've entered this one into a couple of challenges...
JustMagnolia - Embossing, Paper Piecing and Ribbon/Lace (I hope the twine will qualify)
MagnoliaStampLovers - dies

On both of my cards I used gold flecked embroidery twine (or string) that comes on a short round tube.
I do hope you are having fun creating, and will leave a comment when you can! Please pop over to BettyBee's Buzz, and check out the HoneyBee's creations, and if you can enter a twine project, you could be the winner of one of my very first new project kits!! New and exciting info coming very soon!!!

Happy crafting ~

Whoopsi Daisy Bunny Babe

2011-03-22T16:49:00.000-04:00

I haven't done a Stair Step Card in quite a while, and this little lady seemed just perfect for such a design!

Isn't that the sweetest face? She is a Whoopsi Daisy image, and you can get her here. I colored her with Copics, and the bunny in the background is from Cricut's Celebrate with Flourish Lite cartridge. The paper is from DCWV Sweet Stack.

I hope you can hop right into your crafting area and craft something fun today! I'll be back tomorrow with a couple of twine projects for BettyBee's Buzz!!

Happy crafting!

Waiting for the Easter Bunny

2011-03-03T23:58:00.001-05:00

It is March New Release day at Digital Delights, and it is my delight to introduce

Miss Daisy with Bunny Ears to you!

Isn't she the sweetest face you've ever seen?

Wendy has drawn a new line of precious little children, and Daisy is available with and without her sweet bunny ears and slippers. The bench, basket (with eggs) and other Delightful Easter items are among the new releases available starting today!

My images are colored with Copics, and the papers are from DCWV Spring Stack. The background cardstock is embossed with the Cuttlebug Polka Dot folder. She has some Stickles on her collar and flowers for sparkle.

I removed the eggs from the basket, and replaced it with tissue paper that I colorecd with Copics, and then snipped with sharp scissors.... very easy, and so cute! The sentiment was computer generated, and cut out with a Nestability Tag die.

Have a great weekend! I'll see you again very soon :)

Happy creating ~

It's a Frame Up!!

2011-03-02T01:00:00.001-05:00

Last week, my sweet friend, HoneyBee Rosemary, gave each of us a white frame, provided a nice selection of assorted embellishments, and our challenge was to create whatever we wanted with it!

DCWV Linen Closet paper, Prima and Martha Stewart flowers, and Sizzix punched leaves were a great start. I had the perfect dotted sheer ribbon, and a package of frisky little bumble bees, which add a lot of life and dimension, in and out of the frame. The daisies are punched with an EK Success punch, and are colored with Copics.

Here are my HoneyBee Sisters! Being together was the most wonderful time, and this framed photo will be a delightful reminder of so much fun. It will have a very special place of honor in Studio Bee.

Please pop over to BettyBee's Buzz, and see how the other girls did their frames, and HoneyBee Beth has created the most charming buttoned frame with her adorable grandkids!!

Back soon! Happy creating ~