Stamp 4 Fun with Selene Kempton ~ Stampin' Up! Independent Demonstrator

Vingage Fun

noreply@blogger.com (Selene Kempton) — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 09:07:14 PST

Good Morning Friends!

I've been a bit of a slacker for this ONE card swap I signed up for a week or two ago. Honestly, I signed up for this BEFORE I saw the sketch that is WAY outside my comfort zone.

I am more of a clean and simple chick! :D However, after making this card, I'm digging the vintage~ness of this card. (Yea! a new word!)

I started with some strips I had leftover from prepping my club cards this week. and just used the random pieces to shadow the sketch.
I used a piece of blushing bride 5 3/8 x 4 1/8" for the inside, so you could see the pretty note card die cut layer. These cards come already die cut and ready for your vintage embellishments.

The focal point is actually a detachable book mark. I stuck it on the front with ONE glue dot, just to hold it there, but I hope that my friend who gets this card will pull it off and use it as a book mark. So Let's talk about the leaves on the side of my flower for a second. I took some seam binding, and tied it on my card, making a bow. Then behind my flower, I made one loop and attached a 1 3/4" circle with some dimensionals. When you lay it down, the seam binding looks like gorgeous sparkly leaves coming out behind of my shimmery flower.

I cut that big gorgeous flower on the big shot with my fancy flowers die. I also put a piece of white doily that I cut just before. I crumpled all the layers that came out of the big shot, then spritzed them with the blushing bride shimmer spritz. To me, it looks a LOT darker than blushing bride. I used red riding hood on the flower, and it's a closer match to that in my opinion. In between each layer, I put a small circle (also cut with the die) and put dimensionals on both sides of each circle to make my flower really pop! On layer 2 of my flower, I attached the doily that I cut, and just used snail to attach it to the flower below. I think it adds a whole bunch of interest to the card.

Not too shabby! I broke out of my comfort zone and made this pretty vintage card! I'm very happy with it considering I usually struggle with the vintage style of stamping. Hey! I didn't stamp at all on this! That's so funny!

Happy Sunday! Thank you for visiting today.
Selene Kempton

Thoughts of You

noreply@blogger.com (Selene Kempton) — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 07:14:40 PST

Good Morning Friends!

Here is the last card in the set of the sale a bration samples I did with my team at our monthly meeting last month.

How about some measurements:
Base: Lucky Limeade 8 1/2" x 5 1/2", scored and folded at 4 1/4"
Layer 2: Very Vanilla 4 x 5 1/4"
Layer 3: 4 1/8" x 2 1/8" soft sky card stock
Layer 4: 4 x 2" designer paper
Layer 5: Lucky Limeade scalloped circle
Layer 6: 1 3/8" circle, soft sky
Layer 7: 1 1/4" circle very vanilla with the last image from the set.

I love the doily looking lace border that is a part of the set, and peeking out from behind the designer paper layer. I used the same ribbon technique to triple my layers of ribbon for a decorative effect, that I did on the other 3 cards. I sponged the entire vanilla (layer 2) after embossing it, to get the color to really pop!

This morning we're having some work done on the power for our house, so I need to run, but I'll be back soon to share more stamping inspiration with you.

Thanks for visiting today. Selene~
Click here to visit my online store

Stamps:
Fresh Vintage stamp set 125115W/125117C (Free With a $50) purchase
Loving Thoughts 125843W/125845C
Ink:
123002 2011-2013 In Color Collection Markers
(I used Pool Party and Lucky Limeade)
122935 Lucky Limeade Ink Pad
Paper:
Lucky Limeade Card stock 122926
Very Vanilla Card Stock 101650
Everyday Enchantment Designer Paper 126154
Accessories:
Every Day Enchantment Ribbon and Brad Pack 127279
Stampin Sponges 101610

Winter Blues ~ Saturday Sketch Challenge 240

noreply@blogger.com (Selene Kempton) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 15:01:47 PST

Good Evening Friends! It's time for another sketch challenge from the stamping 411 operators!

This week, Gretchen Barron is at the sketch board again.

I really struggled with this sketch, there are two separate focal points.. I suppose one of mine is now flying away! :D Too funny!

How about some measurements!
Base: (oh yea, shimmer white baby!)11 x 4 1/4", scored and folded in half at 5 1/2"
Layer 2: 4 x 5 4 1/4"
Layer 3: two pieces of The Gorgeous Sweet Shop designer paper (mini catalog) cut to 3 7/8" x 1 7/8" each
Layer 4: Island Indigo 3 1/8" x 2 1/8"
Layer 5: Shimmer white 3 x 2"
Layer 6: Island Indigo stamped on shimmer white and cut out.

I actually made this card with Gretchen Barron on the phone! :D This brand(y) new set Just Soaring just arrived in the mail yesterday and of course, I was LATE submitting my card! Tisk tisk tisk. I had an especially challenging week and I joked with Gretchen after I stamped the sentiment. Is it weird to make a card for yourself? But I suppose it's nice to give back once in a while! HA!

I just love the big soft bow, and once I actually sat down to do it, I was really happy with the result! I love the big frumpy bow on the side. It's so soft! I took an aqua painter and water colored the sky, with soft sky ink, I just left the sparkly clouds there to glisten.

So tomorrow, my family and I have to leave our house for 6 hours while they turn the power off and do some work... Any thoughts on what we should do in a cold rainy New England with my hubby and 7 year old? I've been writing directions and crafting like a mad woman. So, it will be good to take a break. Who's got a fun family idea for me?

Until tomorrow,
Selene~

Create

noreply@blogger.com (Selene Kempton) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 05:10:14 PST

Good Morning Friends!

This morning's card is another card from the set I did with my team at the monthly meeting last month. It features all the same supplies as the previous two cards in a clean and simple format.

I love the way the designer papers look here. it's such an easy way to make a card when you have a smaller focal point. This card is featuring two different designer papers from Everyday Enchantment Designer Paper, front and back.

The postage stamp was inked with 4 different colors, pool party, calypso coral, lucky limeade and riding hood red.

Measurements:
Base 8 1/2" x 5 1/2", scored and folded in half at 4 1/4"
Layer 2: 4 1/8" x 3 1/8"
Layer 3: 3 x 1 (four pieces) ~ so it matte's perfectly! Love that!
Layer 4: Lucky limeade postage punch (to matte the 1 inch stamped image)
Layer 5: Stamped image and punched with the 1" square punch

The ribbon was attached to the back using snail adhesive and then I used a glue dot on top.

Stamps:
Fresh Vintage stamp set 125115W/125117C (Free With a $50) purchase
Loving Thoughts 125843W/125845C
Ink:
123002 2011-2013 In Color Collection Markers
(I used Coral, Pool Party and Lucky Limeade)
120971 Riding Hood Red Marker
122939 Calypso Coral Ink Pad
Paper:
Calypso Coral Cardstock 122925
Very Vanilla Card Stock 101650
Everyday Enchantment Designer Paper 126154

I'll see you tonight for the stamping 411 sketch challenge! TGIF!
Selene~

Inspire

noreply@blogger.com (Selene Kempton) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 06:28:04 PST

Good Morning Friends!

Here's another card in the set I made with my team this month. I also used this card as a swap for my friend's swap group.

How about some measurements to get started?
Base: 8 1/2" x 5 1/2", scored and folded in half at 4 1/4"
Layer 2: 5 x 3 3/4" lucky limeade
Layer 3: 4 7/8" x 3 5/8" very vanilla
Layer 4: 4 7/8" x 1 1/2" designer paper
Layer 5: Lucky limeade 3 1/8" x 2 3/8"
Layer 6: Vanilla 3 x 2 1/4"

Stamps:
Fresh Vintage stamp set 125115W/125117C (Free With a $50) purchase
Loving Thoughts 125843W/125845C
Ink:
123002 2011-2013 In Color Collection Markers
(I used Coral, Pool Party and Lucky Limeade)
122935 Lucky Limeade Ink Pad
Paper:
Lucky Limeade Card stock 122926
Very Vanilla Card Stock 101650
Everyday Enchantment Designer Paper 126154
Accessories:
Every Day Enchantment Ribbon and Brad Pack 127279
Stampin Sponges 101610
Mat Pack (to make the holes for the brads)

Between the card yesterday and today, this only changes two items for the supply list. we went from coral ink and paper to limeade! :D So cool to make so many awesome cards with the same set!

Thanks for visiting! Selene~
Click here to visit my online store

Dream Big! Sale A Bration Showcase Project

noreply@blogger.com (Selene Kempton) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 07:21:58 PST

Good Morning Stampers!

It's here! The start of Sale-A Bration was yesterday and I couldn't be more excited!

This week I'm going to share what I did at my last team meeting. Every month at my meeting, I like to show a family of products and showcase their possibilities. I do have a few long distance ladies in my down line and I'm working on ways to get them to be able to "attend" the meeting without actually being here. So, this week I purchased a high quality HD camera and I'm going to be working on doing video's for them to be able to be here, even if they cant sit across the table from me. Isn't that wonderful?

Stampin' Up! has really outdone themselves with this amazing reward of products for hostesses who have a $400 workshop. It includes the BRAND NEW products shown in this cute card set:

Fresh Vintage stamp set 125115W/125117C
Everyday Enchantment Designer Paper 126154
Every Day Enchantment Ribbon and Brad Pack 127279

So, hostesses get the opportunity to earn all three, plus! you get a free item from the Sale-A-Bration book (link is on the right hand sidebar at the top) for EVERY $50 in purchases you make! Isn't that amazing? So there's more.. You get all the usual hostess benefits, plus the new tote for SAB (this is for hostesses who achieve a $150 party). There is truly so many rewards for placing orders or hosting a workshop that I can't imagine why anyone wouldn't want to have a girls night out! :D So cool!

So ~ to get this party started, let's break down this card. :D

First, some measurements with a supply list.

Base: 5 1/2" x 8 1/2", scored and folded in half at 4 1/4" ~ In Calypso Coral Card Stock
Layer 2: 4 x 5 1/4", embossed with the elegant lines embossing folder, Very Vanilla
Layer 3: a strip of calypso coral card stock 4 x 2" (that gorgeous scalloped edge was cut with our new edgelets)
Layer 4: Every Day Enchantment DSP 4 x 1 1/2"
Layer 5: Ribbon from the Ribbon and brad pack (you get 10 yards of each of the two colors)!
Layer 6: Calypso Coral 3 1/8" x 3 3/8"
Layer 7: Very Vanilla 3 x 3 1/4"

Supplies!
Stamps:
Fresh Vintage stamp set 125115W/125117C (Free With a $50) purchase
Loving Thoughts 125843W/125845C
Ink:
123002 2011-2013 In Color Collection Markers
(I used Coral, Pool Party and Lucky Limeade)
122939 Calypso Coral Ink Pad
Paper:
Calypso Coral Cardstock 122925
Very Vanilla Card Stock 101650
Everyday Enchantment Designer Paper 126154

Accessories:
Every Day Enchantment Ribbon and Brad Pack 127279
Stampin Sponges 101610
Adorning Accents Edgelet Dies 125595
Elegant Lines Embossing Folder 119277
Big Shot Die-Cutting and Embossing Machine 113439

Step By Step.

On this card I started with stamping the cute border on the bottom of layer 2.
I took this same layer and used the elegant lines embossing folder to put the background design on my card stock.
Using the Calypso Coral Ink Pad and 1/8 of a stampin sponge, use a circle motion to pick up some ink from the ink pad. Use the same circle motion to sponge over the embossed card stock.
Start inking up the main image for layer 7. Start with the pool party (the lightest color) then ink the coral, and finish up with lucky limeade. As a rule, you always want to go light to dark. If you put the darkest color on first you could pick up a red or green in your light blue marker.
Once you've stamped your focal image, you can attach the coral matte and put 4 dimensionals on the back (one for each corner and set this piece aside.
Next, you want to attach your designer paper, to the 4 x 2" strip, leaving a 1/4" border at the top showing. Using the big shot, cut the decorative border.
While you are still working with this piece, put a small amount of snail adhesive (tape runner) on the back of the strip. I attached my ribbon to that and then first went straight across my card, then went to the top, then the bottom to make the cool pattern with this gorgeous ribbon! :D When I was done with the 3 layers, I just stuck the other end to the same strip of adhesive on the back. Easy Peasy.
Once this was done, I used the tombo multipurpose adhesive to put these layers on my card. This will keep your ribbon from coming loose.
I just put the card together like the picture from there and tied a bow on my friend Lee Conrey's fabulous bow maker. I used a glue dot to put the bow on.
Simple and pretty!

Join me tomorrow and I'll show you another beautiful and simple card from the suite! Have a wonderful Wednesday!

If you are inspired by what you have seen here and would like to place your sale~a~bration order, here is a link for you or you can just send me an email @ e.selene@verizon.net . I'm here to serve.

Rubbah hugs,

Selene Kempton

Stinkin Cute Embossing with Markers Class

noreply@blogger.com (Selene Kempton) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 09:19:24 PST

The name of this class doesn't just come from the ADORABLE projects shown here. They are actually scented with Stampin' Up's latest line of scented embossing powders! How fun would it be to give this to a friend as a stinkin' cute gift?

Come this Friday and learn how to emboss with markers.

Date: This Friday, January 27th, 2012
Time: 6:30
Cost: $25 ~ please bring your own adhesive
Place: My Stampin' Studio

I hope to see you all!

Rubbah hugs,
Selene

Mojo Monday ~ Doggie Bereavement card

noreply@blogger.com (Selene Kempton) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 18:53:56 PST

Hey There Friends!

I have been trying to make a card all day! I started about 8 am this morning looking at the cutest block sketch over on Mojo Monday. I just love sketches. Well, then my hubby decided to work from home, so I took the truck for new tires. We were in desperate need of them, and now that there's "that terrible stuff" on the ground, we couldn't put it off any longer. :D
Then stuff happens, my little one got out of school, homework, and so on...

So here we go.. When I saw the sketch I was going to use a cool new set from sale a bration (which starts tomorrow morning). But I saw this little doggie set and went in a completely different direction. It's funny where the creative process will take you.

I started with some measurements that Julee gave for the sketch. each of those panels are 1 1/2" x 1 5/8" I cut a 1 inch strip for the center panel and ran a ribbon across the inside. I stuck the ribbon to the front of the card before adding my espresso layer cut to 5 x 3 3/4". Pretty cool card! I'll put this one over at the florist for sale I think. it really will make someone happy I think.

Oh~ One last detail.. I took a self adhesive rhinestone brad and colored it with a red sharpie, then placed that on the dog, for his collar. so cool.

That's it for today.
Rubbah hugs,
Selene~

Saturday Sketch Challenge 239

noreply@blogger.com (Selene Kempton) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 14:15:18 PST

Good Evening Friends! It's time for another fun sketch from my buds at stamping 411. This week Gretchen Barron took a turn at the sketch board. I (of course) took some liberties with the sketch. I had so much fun!

I made this pretty card for a friend who has taken a bit of a break from stamping. I got a note from her that she received the card and that it brightened her day. That makes my heart happy! It's actually very sparkly in real life. For this one, it's most certainly prettier in person.

I struggle with some of the new brighter in colors, but this new ribbon is just to die for! The ribbon will be a sale a bration reward when SAB starts this coming Tuesday. So fun! The butterflies took the place of the 3 circles from the sketch (below). I could see them braking out of the "circle" and flying off.. :D The designer paper is the gray pattern from the Twitterpatted designer series paper pack. it's so pretty!!!

So let's talk measurements.

I started with a Calipso coral base 8 1/2 x 5 1/2", scored and folded in half at 4 1/4"
Layer 2: 5 1/4" x 4", whisper white
Layer 3: 5 1/8" x 3 7/8", basic grey. I cut a 3 inch circle from this layer to expose the layer below. Then stamped the leaves on the white layer.
Layer 4: 3 3/4" x 1 1/2" twitterpatted dsp
Additional layers are all cut out flowers and butterflies. The "inspire" was stamped on a 1/2" piece of scrap paper, then sponged. I added LOTS of glitter on top.

So, here is the fabulous sketch we got to work with. Pretty fun! If you have time to play along this week, just post your card somewhere online and link back to us over on stamping 411. We cant wait to see what you come up with!

Thanks for stopping by to see me and for those of you who leave me comments, just know I appreciate you more than you know! (((hugs)))

Selene~

Stampin' with my girl

noreply@blogger.com (Selene Kempton) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 19:16:43 PST

It's been a stressful couple of years when it comes to me, staying at home and still being able to contribute to my family and what they need.

Sometimes, it all weighs a little heavy and I've been feeling it especially these past few weeks. Today, escaped with my girl for some much needed stamping time. I'm thankful for my stamping business that gives me a way to give back to my family, but for the past couple of years, it's just not cutting the mustard.

I'm still trying to find a creative way to earn her tuition, for the school she loves and deserves. It is what it is. I guess it's time to get a bit more creative! Alexis at 7 years old wants to be in and around everything crafty, electronic, and fun! If I want t know what colors are in style, I just take a look at her latest wardrobe, because (thanks to her memere) she's just a little fashionista!

A chip off the old block, she loves her stamping! Can you blame her? Today, I let her use "mum's good paper snips" and she did REALLY well! Guess she's getting old enough to have some fun with dear old mom in the studio! :D

So let's get started! First ~ I just LOVE the sketch challenge over on split coast stampers today! Here's the card Alexis made! She did pretty good cutting out her hot air balloons considering it was the first time I let her use the "big girl snips".

Ooops, I think that banner ended up, upside down... but she didn't notice! hey, look at that scissor work! I was very impressed at her handling the self adhesive rhinestone brads.

Alexis showed me very carefully how you put your finger on top of the rhinestone you want to pick up and gently slide the snips under the adhesive (that's under the rhinestone) until it sticks to the tip of your snips. Gheesh! I think I may have a potential recruit sign up during Sale-A-Bration. She's got me sold! :DStep 2 of applying the rhinestone is to use the tip of the snips to place the rhinestone where you want it, put your finger on top and pull the scissors out! Thanks for the tutorial little one! :D My girl is growing up so fast!
"Okay now mom! Take my picture with MY CREATION!! You know this is the best card I've ever made.... You know WHY MOM?? Because WE made it TOGETHER! How lucky are we to be able to spend time together like this?"

Mom will be back in a minute! I need a tissue!
Yea.. she gets "IT" This is her concentrating look while she assembled the card.. "Mom, I'm gonna need some snail over here!"

Yes you are my dear! :D

Finally, here's the very clean and simple creation that I made, with my daughter's posted above. She's so cool, I just had to share. For me, this is what it's all about. :D

She started her own card bin of cards to have on hand so that she'll have one to send out if she needs it. Wait a minute! I think that means she's officially better than me! Proud mama moment...

We went a little crazy with the bling on this, but we had fun. :DThat's it for tonight!

Rubbah hugs,
Selene Kempton

My Digital Studio Baby Announcements

noreply@blogger.com (Selene Kempton) — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 09:13:01 PST

Good Morning Friends!

For those of you who know me well, you know that I briefly took a job this year to help pay the tuition for my daughter's school. I was very good at the photography... but let's just say I needed a monkey to come out of my cart and do the sales piece. I could use a sales person behind me on my shoulder. :D All in all, it wasn't the right place for me. I made another difficult decision to leave.

Recently I was asked by a few friends to take some pictures of their new grandchild for them. I got the equipment I needed for my camera from Santa and it seems I'm on my way! It's hard to know what God has in store for me.

The ability to capture one of God's greatest gifts on film couldn't be a better gift to me. I count my blessings every day that God had given me a way to stay at home and take care of my daughter while giving me a way to make a few bucks here and there and help pay for her education. More importantly, I thank God for the friendships that I have built as a result of crafting. A card is a pretty powerful thing, it's the biggest little thing you can do for someone. Anyway, I'm excited to share with you some of the photos I took and two different birth announcement samples. I took all the photos, and used My Digital Studio to create the Birth Announcements.

This first design is a "case" of my favorite birth announcement from my old job. Of course I changed it quite a bit and put the Stampin up spin on it! They will be printed post card style 5 x 7 and will be printed both sides. So, the two pictures shown here, will be one postcard.

The second is an alternate announcement to show a different design. I really like them both and hope that my friend will like one of them. Although she said she wont be needing many. I still had fun playing with the pictures of this new little miracle.

That's it for today. Watch out for those little blessings!
Rubbah hugs,
Selene~

Saturday Sketch Challenge 238

noreply@blogger.com (Selene Kempton) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 15:00:02 PST

Good Evening Friends!

I love a nice clean and simple sketch challenge and I had a lot of fun with this sketch!

First, I'd like to to tell you about the focal point. The main images are from the stamp set sweet cake and stamped with cherry cobbler. I used a marker to ink it up. I stamped it on my piece of whisper white and used the ticket corner punch on the edges. Next, I sponged the edges with bashful blue ink, by laying my card stock on the table, and using a circular motion to get the ink on the edges, this makes sponging so soft! Next, I stamped my sentiment, again, using markers. I may have gone a teeny bit too low on this one. :D It happens. :D

Next, I took Illuminate top coat (with the pink top) and ran some of the top coat through my ink on the top of the cupcake. I used it to move the ink and make the cupcake look faux frosted. Next, I added some cherry cobbler glitter to each of the lines on the frosting of the cupcake. I went very heavy handed on the cherry and heart and added the cherry cobbler glitter there too.. You really need to set this stuff aside and let it dry for a bit. At least you do when you add a TON like I do. {smiles}

So how about some measurements for this project:
Base Layer: 8 1/2" x 5 1/2", scored and folded in half at 4 1/4" (bashful blue)
Layer 2: 5 x 3 3/4" (whisper white)
Layer 3: 4 7/8" x 3 5/8" (cherry cobbler, embossed with the finial press embossing folder)
layer 4: 3 1/2 x 2 1/2" whisper white.

Please take a look and see what the other operators are up to this week. Their work always inspires me! If you have time play along. I'd love to see what you come up with for this clean and simple sketch.

Have a wonderful weekend!
Rubbah hugs,

Selene Kempton

Saturday Sketch Challenge 236

noreply@blogger.com (Selene Kempton) — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 14:08:38 PST

Good Evening Friends!

It's time for another sketch challenge from your stamping 411 operators. This week's sketch is a simple one and gave me the opportunity to play with some of the new stamps and accessories from stampin up!

I started this card with a strip of designer paper cut to 1 1/2: inches wide and used a square punch to make my ribbon banner. I used the
new scalloped edge die for either side of my DSP Banner, and just ran it through the big shot.

The edge of the card was cut with a different new edgelet (from the same pack, then embossed with the coordinating embossing folder, and stamped! Whew!)

The base layer of my card is 8 1/2 x 5 1/2" scored and folded in half at 4 1/4". This card was quickly converted into a calendar by adding one more score line @ 2 1/4" to my base layer and adding a card sized topper.
Some really cool projects came out of this weeks sketch! Sorry to be so brief, I'm running out the door to meet a stampin buddy!
Until later, rubbah hugs,
Selene Kempton

Saturday Sketch Challenge 235

noreply@blogger.com (Selene Kempton) — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 13:23:53 PST

Good Evening Friends!

Tonight I have a VERY clean and simple card for you. It's following the new sketch challenge over on stamping 411 tonight.

I have been BUGGING to ink up this cute bunny set for Easter for weeks, and finally I just did it! I water colored the image with markers. For the bunny's dress, I started with the wisteria wonder (lighter color marker) then added some concord crush to the bottom and left hand side and slowly blended it upward. I also used an aqua painter and picked up some soft sky, and added some color behind the bunny and for the ground. I did color one of the eggs pink.. I can see that I'm going to be quickly addicted to this set and doing some more cards soon. I love the cute bunnies! I remember being really excited when I got this set Everybunny in July, but then didnt make any cards with it because Easter was over. Super cute!!

Measurements:
Base: wisteria 8 1/2" x 5 1/2" scored and folded in half at 4 1/4:
Layer 2: whisper white 5 3/8" x 4 1/8"
Layer 3: 5 1/4" x 4" wisteria wonder
layers 4 and 5 are both cut from the new framelet dies. I cut the same size in both the white and soft sky. then I cut the soft sky layer in half. Then I reattached it to the bottom of the white layer,pulling both halves apart to have an added layer without layering all the way around the image. :D

I used the 5/8" organza ribbon in whisper white. It's so springy and has a certain sheen to it that just makes me happy. The white button comes from the neutrals button collection, and I made the faux bow by tying the whole thing up with the new soft sky bakers twine.. So pretty!

Something new: I have been curling the end of my bakers twine with the back of my scissors and it adds a little curl.

The embossing folder is "framed tulips" which just sort of fits the sketch and the holiday I made the card for! :D Well, that's all for tonight. Happy New Year!

Rubbah hugs,
Selene Kempton

Tea Shoppe Birthday Card for my Mom

noreply@blogger.com (Selene Kempton) — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 11:01:06 PST

Good Afternoon Friends!

I was over on split coast and was getting ready to play along with Roxie's awesome sketch challenge when I read a message that after 6 years of service and sketches, she's stepping back due to migraines. :( I love sketch challenges and love seeing what Rox has for us each week and will miss her terribly.

I also looked at the ways to use it page over there for Thursday challenge, and it was to use beads. I wanted to try using beads to make the steam for my tea cups.

Today I used this last sketch to make a card for my mom for her birthday next week. My mom is hysterical about her tea. She gets mad when we go into a restaurant and you can get a bottomless cup of coffee, but you have to pay for each hot tea. She says: "gheesh, what's a teabag costing them an extra .20 cents?" :D That's my mom! I know this card has a LOT of layers, but I suppose nothing is good enough for our moms, right?

I do prefer a more clean and simple look, but love a good challenge. This sketch has a BUNCH of layers, but I'm loving it! I also got a new external flash for Christmas. What do you think? does it make the photo's better? At work I used a different brand camera, so it will take some getting used to, but I really love the indirect light that an external flash can provide. So there's a bunch of new products in this card, here's what I used.

All supplies Stampin' Up!
Stamps: Tea Shoppe and Curly Cute
Ink: blushing bride, baja blue, and pacific point
Paper: twitterpatted dsp from the new occasions mini catalog
Accessories: blushing bride ribbon, linen thread (which I curled with my scissors) white button (from the neutrals pack)

Measurements
Base: 4 1/4" x 11, scored and folded in half at 5 1/2"
Layer 2: 5 x 3 3/4" blushing bride
layer 3, whisper white 4 7/8 x 3 5/8"
Layer 4: 2 x 4 1/4"
Layer 5: 3/4" scrap of riding hood red (note i attached layer 4 and 5 and ran them through the big shot at the same time)
Layer 6: 4 7/8" x 1 1/2" designer paper at the bottom
Layer 7: blushing bride matte 2 5/8" x 2
Layer 8 (tea cups stamped on it) 2 1/2" x 2
Layer 9: 3/4" strip of DSP, cut with a square punch to make the banner end straight
Layers 10.. is the button..

That's it for today. I'll be back tomorrow evening with a fun sketch from 411 for you to try out!

Rubbah hugs,
Selene Kempton

Saturday Sketch Challenge 235

noreply@blogger.com (Selene Kempton) — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 13:31:14 PST

Good Evening Friends!

Merry Christmas to you and yours, or whatever holiday you choose to celebrate. I've got plans to head to the bowling ally with my hubby and little one tonight.

This week's sketch is so fun! I decided to flip mine... This is showcasing the new "Sweet Cake" stamp set! Isn't it pretty?

I started with another pattern from the twitterpatted designer paper in the back. That square is cut to 3x3 and the square to matte it is 3 1/8" square. The happy birthday and main image was stamped in cherry cobbler. I cut the image out by hand. Then I cut two layers with the new framelet dies. I am just in love with these shapes! There is a piece of the new pleated ribbon going across the middle in blushing bride. Here's the rest of the measurements

Base: Blushing Bride: 11 x 4 1/4" scored and folded in half at 5 1/2"
Layer 2: Cherry Cobbler 5 x 3 3/4"
Layer 3: shimmer white, 4 7/8" x 3 5/8"

I finished this one with a button laced with cherry cobbler bakers twine and stuck it on with a glue dot. I hope during this holiday, you are surrounded by those you love.

Big hugs,
Selene Kempton

Love you! Another sneak peek card

noreply@blogger.com (Selene Kempton) — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 13:40:22 PST

Good Evening Friends!

I finally picked my first swap card of the season... ~ The swapping season that is! Right when the preorders come out for demonstrators, I typically sign up for a few swaps.. This year I'm signed up for FIVE separate swaps! I must be out of my mind! :D I actually turned down a swap I usually participate in.. so funny!

I'm really diggin the new mini catalog. This card was made with images from the upcoming set "P.S. I love you" from Stampin' Up! I love the valentine images and the sentiment is to die for! I love the fun and pretty font.

This is one of the floral patterns from the twitterpatted designer paper, and the pleated ribbon that I'm already addicted to. This one is red riding hood. A color that I'm ready to renew my love affair with now that there's so many fun accessories to go with! :D I really love using designer paper this way. I cut a sheet of paper down to 3 3/4" x 5" then cut from corner to corner. 1 piece of Designer paper yields 12 of this fun pattern!

So Measurements:
Base 8 1/2" x 5 1/2", scored and folded at 4 1/4"
Layer 2: basic grey 5 1/8" x 3 7/8"
Layer 3: baja breeze 5 x 3 3/4"
Layer 4: DSP cut to above measurements
Layer 5: ribbon
Layer 6: framelet cut shimmer white
Layer 7: heart of hearts embosslet (for the heart)
Layer 8: Shimmer white punched heart

That's it for today... Say~ my daughter really wants to bake Christmas cookies. Does anyone have a good recipe for sugar cookies they can share with me? I've never made them!
Also, how do you frost and decorate them? Do you have any traditions you'd like to share?

Rubbah hugs,
Selene Kempton
Selene

Sneak Peek! Baby Prints

noreply@blogger.com (Selene Kempton) — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 09:46:55 PST

Good Afternoon Friends!

I'm so excited to be able to share another card made with new goodies today. This one uses the Baby Prints stamp set, which will be available on January 4th!

I'm in FOUR swaps in the next few weeks and I'm stressing a bit.. I was thinking of doing this for one of them, but I'm still not sure.. Looks like I'll be going back to the drawing board this afternoon.

I always joke with my customers and say "when in doubt, add another layer of paper," Well in some respects layering your ink can do the same thing! I love the sentiment stamp on top of the footprints. Adding layers and colors to your ink can be AS effective as adding another layer of paper! Too fun! This one is a little over the top. I had fun with the new framelets... They allow you to stamp an image and cut it out, the way you would with a punch, but using your big shot! They are super fabulous! I added the little pink button, but it was getting lost on the white, so I put a small heart punch behind it.. I love all the polka dots and layered fun things going on with this card.

Thanks for stopping by today.
Rubbah hugs to you!
Selene Kempton

Mojo Monday (on Tuesday) ~ caught in Crystal

noreply@blogger.com (Selene Kempton) — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 08:40:42 PST

Good Morning Friends!

I finally got some of my goodies for the next catalog (coming out on January 4th). I am participating in 4 swaps over the next few weeks, and I thought I should start with a sketch. I love doing sketch challenges! I saw this gorgeous sketch from mojo monday and new I should start right there.

Here are a WHOLE bunch of the new goodies. The paper is from the twitterpatted designer paper, stamps are from the apothecary stamp set, and how about that GORGEOUS new pleated ribbon in pear pizazz? I used the new framelet dies for both of the upper layers.. oh I'm having fun!

The top flowers felt a little bit plain Jane for me, so I pulled out my bottle of crystal effects and painted them.. I sprinkled some dazzling diamonds on with my fingers so they wouldn't get cake~y. Oh this is so pretty in real life I'm not sure the photo does it justice.. Happy Tuesday folks, only a few more days till Christmas!

Rubbah hugs,
Selene Kempton

November Workshop Cards and November online order Winners announcment

noreply@blogger.com (Selene Kempton) — Sun, 18 Dec 2011 09:52:44 PST

Good Morning Friends!

First, Heartfelt thanks to those of you placed online orders with me in the month of November. I have two winners of FREE products from the new drawing I'll be doing once monthly.

I just put the names in a bucket and pull one out from all orders placed with me monthly.

Congratulations to Amy A who won the noteworthy download CD using MDS
and Congratulations to Cheryl Patenaude who won the warmest of wishes stamp set (shown above).

I'll be in touch to get you your prizes ladies!

The prize for the December orders is a stamp set that's not even available yet (so I cant show a picture) called Gnome sweet Gnome (retail value 21.95). I'll do the drawing early in January and post it here.

I know you have choices in the marketplace and thank you for choosing me to be your Stampin' Up Demonstrator. If you do not have a demonstrator and would like to place an online order with me Click here to be transported to my online store! The clearance rack is packed with goodies right now!

Have you thought about having a workshop, but don't want to pressure your friends? Maybe you should book a "pick 3" with me! For this special type of card class/workshop, you and your friends will make 9 cards (3 of each of 3 designs) for $15 plus adhesive. Want to place an order? Great, I will have the catalogs with me, but this is an easy going girls night out. Where else can you get 9 cards for $15? Have more than 6 friends over, and get yours for free! :D

Sale-A-Bration is coming and I'm already booking for it! I cant wait to come and hang out with you and your friends.

Here are some of my November workshop cards. I LOVE the new stocking punch! The first two cards use the same supplies. Guests could make either one by flipping the paper over or omitting a layer.

This one I cased, and changed around a bit. The original idea came from my upline, Katherine Allen.
For this one I played around with my scoreboard. I just scored every half inch. flipped the paper then scored on the 1/2 inch mark skipping every other row.
I hope you found some inspiration in some of these projects. (((hugs)))
Selene Kempton

Saturday Sketch Challenge 234

noreply@blogger.com (Selene Kempton) — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 15:00:05 PST

Good Evening Friends!

Boy did I have fun playing with some of my new loot! Tonight is my last class of the year and boy, I cant wait to start playing!

When I saw this week's sketch, I was thinking, that's not CAS, but I'm really happy with the result. This gorgeous sketch from Gretchen made a wonderful card and I'm excited to be mailing two of these out to my downline.

Let's start with some measurements:

Base: real red, 8 1/2" x 5 1/2", scored and folded in half at 4 1/4"
Layer 2: shimmer white 5 x 3 3/4" stamped with hearts and sponged
Layer 3: shimmer white 5 1/2" x 1 3/4", then edged with the heart border punch
layer 4: red 5 1/2" x 1 1/2", embossed
Layer 5 and 6: well, we'll talk about those in a minute.

Now a recipe:
Stamps: Take it to Heart stamp set, and Loving Thoughts stamp set (occasions mini sneak peek)
Ink: Real red
Paper:Real red and shimmer white
Accessories: (here's where I had fun). Hearts collection framelit dies, Adorning Accents Embossing folders (now I cant show a picture of the product yet, but there are three. This one makes the strip of hearts going across the middle). Real Red Satin ribbon 5/8", tombo multipurpose adhesive, stampin sponges.

The NEW framelit dies are WONDERFUL to work with. You stamp your image, then put the frame on top and cut. They only do one at a time, but it's like a punch, you can see where you're going. They are AWESOME! There is no die for the banner, I cut that one by hand (smiles).

When I made this card I wanted to use some of my red satin ribbon, and I thought of a card I saw (mostly white) from my buddy and past operator Robin Merriman. She made a card with this image. When I sat down to play, I wanted to use this one too! It's so cool how we all inspire one another. If you'd like to try this sketch or see other cards made with this sketch, head on over to stamping411 where you can see other samples from my friends and perhaps play along if you have a minute or two!

Rubbah hugs,
Selene Kempton

Seriously EASY card box for gift giving

noreply@blogger.com (Selene Kempton) — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 09:07:39 PST

Good Morning Friends!

This week, I was hoping to finally keep my promise to do a tutorial for this cute box that comes together in minutes. (Hi Michelle!) There are literally 4 score marks and 4 cuts, then you stick it together! Really, that's it!

I'll be whipping up a few more of these next week, as I'm planning to give those "card worthy" relatives a stack of cards for their pantries. This box is made from some new items, some existing items, and some sneak peeks, so put your spectacles on and take a peek at this!

Stamps: 123779 You are Loved Stamp set (will be going away forever on January 3rd)
Ink: Riding hood red, basic gray, blushing bride and pear pizazz (just a few of the colors in the new DSP coming out)
Paper: whisper white, riding hood red and Twitterpated Designer series paper (which will be out on January 4th).
Accessories: Tombo multipurpose adhesive, 3 dimensionals to pop up the heart, riding hood red pleated satin ribbon (gasp!), vintage brads, 1 1/6" circle punch, the NEW heart framelit die!, and (of course) the Simply Scored Scoring tool with place markers!

and away we go... First, I set up my score tool for marks at 1 1/4" 4 1/2" and 6 1/2"

Take a piece of 8 1/2" x 11", cardstock, on the 8 1/2" side, score at 1 1/4" (both sides)
Note** notice how I'm holding the stylus? I have my thumb on top and I'm pulling towards me. After scoring 170 wedding invitations for my cousin (in two places), I realized when I hold my stylus this way, it doesn't slip out of the groove on me.

Then flip your card stock 90 degrees and score at 4 1/2" and 6 1/2".
Now, using your paper snips, cut in 1 1/4" inches where you see black on the template below.Next, fold on all lines VERY well! If you like, you can use a bone folder to get a nice crisp edge.Apply some tombo multipurpose adhesive to one side of the flap that's folded up, and attach this side of the box. I like to do this on both sides, so that when I put the box together, my flaps match. Some notes about the tombo glue (I call it green glue because it comes in a green tube). The picture above shows a little too much. you can use sticky strip, but if you make a mistake you're either stuck, or using a heat gun to try and reposition. The idea of the green glue is to use a TINY amount. I use it for everything except ribbon and designer paper. If you try it, and have it all over your hands, you're probably using too much!

Some of my customers say that I scratch it on the paper or make a dotted line. Below is a better amount to use.

Now that we have one side stuck to the bottom flap (left and right), add a thin line of green glue down the spine of your box and seal up the other two sides.
Oh looky! I'm crooked! Well, the "green glue" lets you reposition for a second.. Love that!!

So here's the raw box. Now, I like to use ribbon for the handles (about 12"), you could cut a strip of paper 1" and use that, whatever works for you!

So, now I'd like to decorate my box. Pick out a coordinating designer Paper (i used twittpated).
Cut this to 4 1/2" x 3". if you're using 2 sheets of designer paper, you'll yield enough for 10 boxes, front and back!

I cut a sheet of whisper white down to 4 1/2" and cut two strips from the ribbon border punch. then I just take the punched piece and cut it in half.
Flip your dsp over, and add a thin line of green glue. Then lay the border on top. Try and use the design to get your sides even on each side.Attach these to the front of the box and decorate to taste! Here's the finished box, and the original box I did when the score tool came out!

Thanks for visiting today and for checking out the tutorial! If you'd like to make one and post it somewhere online, I added a linky so we can see what you did with this tutorial!

Rubbah hugs,
Selene Kempton

Money Holder

noreply@blogger.com (Selene Kempton) — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 06:29:55 PST

Good Morning Friends!

I have to go to the dentist this morning! Uggghhh.. So I'm writing a blog post when I should be getting dressed! :D I did make another card and photograph it this morning.. but alas, my card reader has finally died.

So ~ I have just a quick share for you this morning. This past weekend we celebrated Christmas with my sister and her family. We did a small gift exchange. In addition to something small, I gave my Godson John, a little money so he can pick out what he likes.

Giving money seems so **funny** for me, so I decided to make him this money holder. I'm glad I got a picture of it because he ripped it to shreds! Ummm guess I should have told him that the belly band slides off? Well, there's always next year.
I hope you're having a wonderful holiday season! I'm looking forward to Christmas now that most of my shopping is done. I'm all for going back to the REAL reason for Christmas and gathering with our loved ones to celebrate the birth of Christ!

Oops~ How did that get in here? Well, this is a picture of my fashionista on the way out to meet up with the family! She's so cool.

Much love to you all!
Selene

Saturday Sketch Challenge 233

noreply@blogger.com (Selene Kempton) — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 15:00:06 PST

Another Christmas Card??

Well, yes! I'm starting to wind down a little now, but I got a late start on making my Christmas cards this year. This one is going to my big brother Paul in Florida.

I'll be "cranking" out some Christmas cards to send out this week with my daughter over the weekend. She's getting so big and actually made some clean and simple cards up for me last night! I'm so impressed that she's able to do it herself. She's growing up so fast.

So here is tonight's stamping 411 card. Another simple sketch really fits the bill for last minute cards at this time of year, don't cha' think? I really love this hand penned stamp set for the gorgeous words. It made this sketch card come together in a few minutes.

So, how about some measurements.
Base: Cherry cobbler 8 1/2 x 5 1/2", scored and folded in half at 4 1/4"
Layer 2: Cherry cobbler 4 7/8" x 3 5/8"
Layer 3: Shimmer white 4 3/4 x 3 1/2"
Layer 4: is the banner going across. The white was cut from a 1 1/2" strip, then i added the scalloped dotted border punch, cut in half to make the scallops. I attached this layer to layer 2 and 3 then cut it across before attaching it to my card base.
Layer 5 is the gorgeous wreath, which I stamped on shimmer, cut out, then sponged for effect.
I painted the whole card with the dazzling details glitter glue that's out. I love how it adds some vintage gold effect.

I used vintage ribbon to finish it off. I'm loving this one! I hope this holiday season is finding you relaxed. I, for one, am trying to take a little time to enjoy my little one and pull the "stress" of the season out of the equation. Easier said than done in some cases, but we all need goals, right? :D

I hope that your holidays are stress free so you can just enjoy the season.
Rubbah hugs,
Selene

Mojo Morning Stretch

noreply@blogger.com (Selene Kempton) — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 06:41:34 PST

Boy, it's good to be back in the studio and just spending a little time creating.

There's nothing better than a good sketch challenge to get the creative juices flowing! When I saw this morning's sketch from Mojo Monday, I knew that I wanted to FINALLY put some ink on this set and see where it went!

I am sticking to a monochromatic color pattern for this one and oh how it's putting me in the Christmas mood! I grabbed a cup of eggnog flavored coffee and quickly got to work. (eggnog coffee sounds yucky, but it's surprisingly delicious!). Although there's a lot of layers to this one, it went together in a few minutes.

So first, some measurements:
Base: Whisper white 5 1/2" x 8 1/2", scored and folded at 4 1/4"
Layer 2: Cherry cobbler 4 x 5 1/4", then embossed with the big shot
Layer 3: Cherry cobbler ribbon! (this is double sided so you can go polka dots or not)
Layer 4: whisper white 3 1/8" x 2 1/8"
Layer 5: Frostwood Lodge Designer series paper 3 x 2"
Layer 6: Cherry cobbler 2 1/8" x 3 1/4"
Layer 7: Whisper White 2 x 3 1/8"
Layer 8: Sentiment on Whisper white, punched with the XL oval punch.

All Supplies Stampin' Up!
Stamps:
Christmas Lodge w 123767 / c 123769
Grateful Greetings w 116511
Ink:
cherry cobbler ink pad 119669
Paper:
Cherry Cobbler 119685
Whisper White 100730
Frostwood Lodge DSP 124002
Accessories:
1/2" Scallop Dots Ribbon, cherry cobbler 124138
Two way Glue pen 100425
Dazzling Diamonds glitter 102023

Thanks for visiting my blog today.
Rubbah hugs,
Selene Kempton