Circle stamping!

I love to use my Stamparatus!!
And it is super cool to do "Circle Stamping" with it.  
I've had a few of you ask me how I do it!

If you are local & have attended a class of mine- you have got to do it yourself a few times.
But here is a tutorial on how to use your Stamparatus to do Circle Stamping!
If you have any questions- don't hesitate to contact me.

#1. First you are going to cut a 5 1/2" x5 1/2" card stock template.
Fold it in half & then in half again so that you have fold lines to line up the points of your square framelit.
This way you will have it perfectly centered.

#2. Using the LARGEST square in the Layering Squares Framelits- cut it out. 

#3. It will look like this when it is cut.
NOTE:  SAVE this square you just cut out- it is what you are going to stamp on later. 

 #4. Then turn the square framelit, line up the fold marks & cut it again like this.

 #5. It will then look like this.

 #6.  You will have 4 of these little triangles that you throw away.  

#7.  The first Whisper White Square you cut out- you save! This is what you will stamp your images onto.

#8.  Lay your CLEAN stamp image, with image side down, directly onto your card stock where you want to stamp.

#9.  Then shut the Stamparatus lid- so that your stamp image sticks to it.

#10.  Ink your stamp, shut plate & press onto card stock to make your flower image(s).
NOTE:  I like to use spots when I'm stamping with my Stamparatus.  You can use your big ink pad, but often you get ink onto the plate, so you'll then want to use your shammy to wipe it off.  

#11.  Turn your card stock clockwise & stamp another flower.

NOTE:  Your card stock will fit perfectly into all points as you turn it one 'notch' each time you stamp you flower onto it.  Do you see the pattern on how to do it?  So you aren't ever moving your stamp, but you are moving your paper. 

You can SAVE this square cut out template & use it over & over again!! 

12.  This is what you are trying to achieve to accomplish!!!

NOTE:  Sometimes you have to 'play' with where you want to put your stamp image to start with.  Cut multiple white squares to try until you get the stamp in the right spot so that the flowers (or image you are using) aren't over lapping.  Once you get your stamp where you want it- you don't have to move it & you can just make multiples cards. You are all set to stamp over & over again!

Here is the stamp set I used to make the card.  It is called- 'Bouquet Blooms'.

And here is my finished card.
You can CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THIS CARD!

This is another card that I did the circle stamping on too with the leaves.
You can CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THIS CARD!

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Yesterday was a busy day with Masen & Ainslee.  When they went home I worked on stamping stuff & Deke worked late in the field.  I made a late supper for him when he got in & we called it a night.  We were both beat.

This morning we are up early at 5:00 a.m to mark, sort & load hogs.  So I'll be a farmer helping Deke.  Sometime today I'll have Masen & Ainslee for awhile.  I have errands to run in town too.  Tonight I'll be a stamping fool!

I hope you have a FABULOUS Friday!

Happy Stamping!
Hugs-

SUSIE

To Have & To Hold

This is an anniversary card that my demonstrator friend Lynda Wilson sent to us last month!  I love the layout & the colors of it.  She used the 'To Have & To Hold' set in the Occasions Catalog (pg. 12) for the words.  I love the font in this stamp set too!

The gorgeous rose DSP is from the Petal Promenade DSP in the Annual Catalog (pg. 190).  It is a photographic floral design.  Isn't it so realistic & pretty!

stamp set:  'To Have & To Hold'
card stock:  

• Blackberry Bliss-
• Whisper White-

designer paper:  Petal Promenade-
ink:  Blackberry Bliss
other:  Gold Faceted Gems

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Yesterday was a busy day with the kids.  We went outside for about 1 hour- but it was awful windy.  Last night we all got to the races & it rained just as they were starting, so they were cancelled.  We ate a quick supper with Manda, Steve & the boys & came home.  I burnt the midnight oil stamping. 

This morning we are up early.  Deke is off to chore & head to Mount Pleasant for a meeting.  I'm up to work on stamping stuff until Masen & Ainslee get here.  I'll just have them today, as Manda is on Spring Break with her boys.  

Tonight I'll be a stamping again!!  And if it dry enough for Deke to be in the field, then he will be pumping. 

Gotta run......

I hope you have a great Thursday!!
Happy Stamping!
Hugs-

SUSIE

Being honored for our Million Dollars Sales Achievement at On Stage!

 

Here is a great picture of me & my dear demonstrator friend- LeeAnn Greff!

LeeAnn & I met many years ago at Founders & we talk daily.

We share ideas & projects & things back & forth with each other all of the time.

She is a very dear friend & a true blessing in my life!

I am also so happy that my daughter, Amanda got to go with me for the weekends event.
I am so grateful she was there & so happy to spend the time with her.
I am bummed that I didn't get any photo of the 2 of us together.
 

Here we are being honored at our Stampin' Up! celebration together 

at this Minneapolis On Stage.

 

This photo shows all 3 demonstrators that were being honored for our 

Million Dollar Sales Achievement at this On Stage event.

I hit it in November & I am #30!

Dena Rekow hit it in December & she is #31! 

AND

LeeAnn Greff hit it in Feburary & she is #32!

WOW!

 

What an amazing milestone!

What an amazing company!

And all of this is because of each & every one of 

my friends/customers that have stamped with me for the past 17 1/2 years.

What amazing friends/customers I have that stamp with me 

& let me share my love of stamping with them! 

Thank you to EACH OF YOU 

for being part of my journey!

On Stage Minneapolis

Last weekend I went to On Stage in Minneapolis!

It was an awesome weekend- jam packed full!

 

Here is my Iowa Inkers team that joined me.

They surprised me with a huge bouquet of balloons

AND

they had matching shirts made for all of us to wear!

After On Stage on Saturday night, I hosted a Stampin' Event for my team!

I also asked my demo friends LeeAnn Greff & Lorri Heiling 

& their teams to join us.

We ate a yummy Nacho Bar supper, made 10 card projects & then swapped cards!

  

It was a full night of stamping, sharing & lovin' what I do!

Check out all of these pictures below.

The room was full!

And it turned out great!

 

 THEN

We lined up & down the hallway & did our exchanging of swaps!

We call this Founders Style swapping!

 

 

And at the end of the evening we were blessed with some 

Stampin' Up! employees stopping by to visit with us.

We had a blast!  

It was full of lots of laughs, lots of hugs & so much fun!

 

Here is a picture of

Shannon West (from SU!) & my demo friend Lorri Heiling from Arizona. 

In the background is Jason (from SU!). 

Jason is a communications guy & sooo funny! 

Kevin Lunt & Leana (from SU!) also joined us!

It was an amazing event!

I couldn't have been more pleased & happy with it's outcome.

Black & Yellow butterflies!

I was thinking monarch butterflies & spring when I created this!  

OR maybe I was thinking Iowa Hawkeyes, Sigourney Savages or Tri-County Trojans- since Black & Yellow are all of their school colors.

Check out the butterfly.  I colored them using the Light & Dark Daffodil Delight Stampin' Blends & then added the Wink of Stella over the top of them.  You can see the sparkle here in the photo if you look closely.

This is one of the cards that everyone joining me for my On Stage Stampin' Event in Minneapolis got to make. 

Notice the little white flowers one the front.  They are made using the reverse image cut out of the Florentine framelit.  I didn't like the flowers black, so cut some that were white- just for the card.   When I added the little yellow sequins to them- it really made them pop. 

stamp set:  'Butterfly Gala' & 'Painted Glass'
card stock:

• Basic Black-
• Daffodil Delight-
• Whisper White-

designer paper: Gingham Gala
ink:  Black Memento
Stampin' Blends:  Light & Dark Daffodil Delight
other:  Gingham Gala Sequins, Wink of Stella, Big Shot, Magnetic Platform, Florentine Framelit, Butterfly Duet punch, dimensionals, Glue dots

+++++++++

Yesterday was a busy day with the kids.  It was gorgeous day outside & we were out there for several hours.  The kids all rode in the tractor with Deke for awhile, played on the swing set, rode their trikes, ran & played!  It was great!!

When everyone went home I worked on stamping stuff all night.  I had LOTS of boxes of orders that I got sorted, bagged & ready to get to their owners!  And then did a little stamping.  And Deke worked late in the field, trying to get as much done as he can before it rains. 

This morning we are up early.  Deke is off to chore & head to his office at the courthouse.  I'm up to work on stamping stuff until I get the kids for the day.  

Tonight we are all suppose to go to the races in Osky.  We'll see if it rains or not.  I'd love to go........so I hope we get to & that Mother Nature doesn't ruin our plans.  

Please keep my step-sister Pam's husband, Brian Krogmeier in your prayers.  He was electrocuted at work on Friday & air cared to Iowa City.  They did surgery for several hours to try to get blood flow to his feet.  He has had a rough road thus far & will continue to in the coming weeks, months & years.  He has surgery again today & I pray that all goes well.  He is a great guy & it is just so sad that they are going through all of this.  It just breaks my heart. 

Gotta run.....
I hope you have a WONDERFUL Wednesday!!
Happy Stamping!
Hugs-
SUSIE

'Climbing Roses'

Here is a pretty fun fold card that could be for any occasion.  This is one of the cards everyone at my April monthly classes made.  This is also one of the cards that everyone made at my On Stage Stampin' Event that I hosted there too. 

Check out the roses.  They are gorgeous in person......I colored them with my Stampin' Blends & then added Wink of Stella over the top of them.  

It stands up like this!  It is a diagonal easel card. 

This is what it looks like when the card is just opened up.  If you look closely you can the diagonal score mark along the back side of the front of the card.

stamp set:  'Climbing Roses' 'Tea Together', 'Strong & Beautiful'
card stock:

• Calypso Coral-
• Basic Black-
• Whisper White-

designer paper:  Tea Room Specialty DSP
ink:  Black Memento
Stampin' Blends:  Light & Dark Calypso Coral, Light & Dark Old Olive
other:  Wink of Stella, Basic Pearls, 1 3/4" Circle Punch, Story Label Punch, Big Shot, Magnetic Platform, Be Mine Stitched Framelits Dies, Dimensionals, Glue Dots, Calypso Coral 3/8" Satin Ribbon, Simply Scored Scoring Tool

+++++++

Yesterday was a busy day with the kids.  The twins rode the bus here too after school.  I got Brody's hair cut & it turned out cute!  All of them where here for supper too- as there was a parents pre-school meeting that Nathan, Sarah, Manda & Steve attended.  I burnt the midnight oil working on stampin' stuff.  And Deke burnt the midnight oil working in the field. 

Today is pretty much a repeat of yesterday.  This morning I'm off to take the boys to school & spend my day with the 3 little ones.....and stampin' tonight.  And if it doesn't rain Deke will be in the field again. 

I hope you have a TERRIFIC Tuesday!!

Happy Stamping!
Hugs-
SUSIE

Paper Trimmer TIPS:

I know that many of you are very disappointed that the Paper Trimmer is retiring.  

Honestly, I too am disappointed, as I LOVE IT & use it all of the time to cut the many cards I cut for all of my classes.
 
Here are some tips I have for you to help your blades & mats last longer, to get the most out of them!
*I cut 2 sheets of card stock at a time.
*Be sure you clean out the mat with the edge of cardstock (so that it doesn't scratch & notch the track).  Do not use something sharp to clean it out.
*You can flip your mat end to end & over from one side to the other.  This way you get 4 ends of it to extend the use. 
*You can also run your scoring blade back & forth in your track to help smooth out the track, after you clean it to remove any card stock fibers from it.

When we were at On Stage they assure us that they were working on a new cutting tool & were going to make it available as soon as possible. 

CARRY OVER PRODUCTS!

Products from the Occasions & Annual Catalogs that will be returning in the NEW 2019-2020 Annual Catalog!

Here are the stamp sets that are returning: 

*NOTE:  many are returning- but show that they are retiring, as the type of the stamp is all that is changing.  As we will no longer carry any wood stamps (except a few background stamps) & all clear stamps will be changed to Cling stamps!  

• Pop & Petals stamp set- cling
• Label Me Pretty- cling
• Special Celebrations- cling
• Itty Bitty Greetings- cling
• Botanical Bliss- cling
• This Little Piggy- cling
• Flourishing Phrases- cling
• Stitched All Around- cling
• Enjoy Life- photopolyer
• Hold On To Hope- cling
• Butterfly Gala- photopolymer
• Well Said- photopolymer
• Heartland- cling
• Peaceful Place- cling
• Accented Blooms- cling
• Barn Door- cling
• Colorful Seasons- photopolymer
• Varied Vases- photopolymer
• Vibrant Vases- photopolymer
• Birthday Backgrounds- cling
• Piece of Cake- photopolymer
• Itty Bitty Birthdays- cling
• Perennial Birthday- cling
• Broadway Birthday- photopolymer
• Merry Christmas to All- photopolymer
• Making Christmas Bright- photopolymer
• Dashing Deer- cling
• Winter Woods- cling
• Beautiful Promenade- photopolymer
• Kindness & Compassion- cling
• Meant to Be- cling
• Dandelion Wishes- cling
• Artfully Aware- cling
• Strong & Beautiful- cling
• Healing Hugs- cling
• Forever Lovely- photopolymer
• Beautiful Bouquet- photopolymer
• Sorry for Everything- cling
• Love you to Pieces- cling
• Beauty Abounds- cling
• Tropical Chic- cling
• Darling Label Punch Box- photopolymer
• County Home- photopolymer
• Daisy Delight- photopolymer
• Bee Thankful- cling
• Animal Outing-cling
• Fable Friends- cling
• Little Elephant- cling
• Happy Tails- photopolymer
• Nine Lives- photopolymer
• Tea Together- cling
• Beautiful You- cling
• Abstract Impressions- cling
• Swirly Frames- photopolymer
• Painted Glas- cling
• Waterfront- photopolymer
• Little Twinkle- cling
• Painted Harvest- photopolymer
• Beautiful Day- cling
• Magical Mermaid- cling
• Wonderful Moments- photopolymer
• First Frost- cling
• Love What You Do- photopolymer
• Rooted in Nature- cling
• Lilypad Lake- cling
• Best Catch- cling
• Country Road- cling
• Artisan Textures- cling
• High Tide- photopolymer
• Sea of Textures- cling
• Let It Ride- cling
• Geared Up Garage- cling
• Gallery Grunge- cling
• Handwritten background- wood or cling
• Buffalo Check background- wood or cling
• Crackle Paint background- wood or cling
• Around the Corner- photopolymer
• Bokeh Dots- cling
• Make a Difference- photopolymer
• Crafting Forever- cling
• Lined Alphabet- photopolymer

Here are the framelits that are returning in the new form from a different manufacturing company.

• Animal Friends
• Beautiful Layers
• Botanical Tags
• Bouquet Bunch
• Broadway Lights
• Butterfly Beauty
• Catch of the Day
• Cross of Hope
• Delicate Lace
• Detailed Deer
• Flourish
• Frosted Bouquest
• Garage Gears
• In The Woods
• Lakeside 
• Layering Alphabet
• Layering Circles
• Layering Ovals
• Layering Squares
• Lovely Flowers
• Merry Christmas
• Nature's Roots
• Pocket
• Puzzle Pieces
• Seasonal Layers
• Sliding Door
• Springtime Impressions
• Stained Glass
• Stitched Be Mine
• Stitched Labels
• Stitched Rectangles 
• Stitched Shapes
• Support Ribbon
• Tea Tim
• Thank You
• Tropical
• Under the Sea
• Well Written

Here are the returning Embossing Folders from a different manufacturing company:

• Basket Weave
• Corrugated
• Country Floral
• Lace  
• Layered Leaves
• Pinewood Planks
• Seasonal Wreath
• Subtle
• Tin Tile
• Tufted 
• Swirls & Curls
• Woodland

Here are the returning Punches:

• Starburst
• 1 1/8" Scalloped Circle
• 1 3/8" Scalloped Circle
• Classic Label
• Banner Triple
• Balloon Bouquet
• Scalloped Tag Topper
• Story Label
• Christmas Bulb Buider
• Four-Petal Flower
• 2 1/4" Circle 
• 2" Circle
• 1 1/2" Circle
• 1" Circle
• 1/2" Circle
• Tailored Tag
• Pretty Label
• Detailed Trio
• Leaf
• Daisy
• Cat
• Dog Builder
• Sprig
• Everyday Label
• Vases Builder
• Twinkle Builder
• Circle Tab
• Butterfly Duet
• Cake Builder
• Elephant Builder

Here are the returning embellishments:

• Basic Pearls
• Basic Rhinestones
• Red Rhinestone Jewels
• Glitter Enamel Dots
• Heart Epoxy Droplets
• Frosted & Clear Epoxy Droplets
• Faceted Gems- clear & gold
• Gingham Gala Sequins
• Frosted Flower Embellishments
• leaves Trinkets
• Iridescent Sequins Assortment
• Basic Adhesive Backed Sequins
• Metallic Brads
• Happiness blooms Enamel Dots
• Metallic Pearls
• Petal Pink Rhinestone Gems
• Classic Garage Metal Elements
• Candle Embellishments
• Pearlized Doilies

Here are the returning ribbons & trim:

• Real Red 3/8" Cotton Ribbon
• 1/4" Striped Ribbon- Bermuda Bay & Gorgeous Grape
• 5/8" Whisper White Flax Ribbon
• 1/4" Copper Trim
• 1/2" Textured Weave Ribbon- Granny Apple Green, Gray Granite, Poppy Parade
• 3/16" Braided Linen Trim
• 5/8" Whisper White Polka Dot Tulle Ribbon
• 1/8" Grosgrain- Blueberry Bushel, Call Me Clover, Grapefruit Grove, Lovely Lipstick, Pineapple Punch
• 3/8" Black Glittered Organdy Ribbon
• 5/8" Burlap Ribbon
• Leaf Ribbon
• 1/2" Black Satin Ribbon
• 3/8" Metallic Edge Ribbon- Gold & Silver
• Metallic Thread- Rose & Silver
• Solid Bakers Twine- Whisper White
• Linen Thread
• Nature's Twine combo pack- Blackberry Bliss, Crumb Cake, Grapefruit Grove, Blackberry Bliss

Here are the returning packaging products:

• Kraft Pillow Boxes
• Mini Pizza Boxes
• Clear Tiny Boxes
• Acetate Card Boxes
• Baker's Boxes
• 6x8" Cello Bags
• 3 x 6" Gusseted Cello Bags
• Copper Tea Tin 

ALL Designer Paper that is current is RETIRING!
ALL 6x6 Designer Paper in Color families is RETIRING & will return with different prints.

LAST CHANCE PRODUCTS!

Last-Chance Products

Select products from the 2019 occasions catalog and 2018–2019 annual catalog are retiring—and this is the last chance for you to get them! Check out all the details below and contact ME if you have any questions!

Promotion Details

Promotion Dates: April 15–June 3, 2019

• There is no minimum purchase required to participate in this promotion.
• Retiring items may be added to all order types: demonstrator, workshop, customer, and online.
• All retiring items are only available while supplies last and will be discontinued after June 3.
• Due to high demand for retiring stamp sets, these items will have guaranteed availability until May 24; all other products are not guaranteed and are available while supplies last only.
• Retiring items are eligible for Stampin’ Rewards (hostess rewards) with qualifying orders of $150 or more!
• Retiring host sets may be purchased using Stampin’ Rewards from a qualifying party only.

• Depending on inventory levels, discounts on select products may be introduced on or after May 9.
• These discounts will not be preannounced.
• Discounts may vary by market depending on inventory levels.
• If you buy a product at retail price and then it is later discounted, Stampin’ Up! will not refund the difference.
• If there is a product you want, I recommend buying it right away and not waiting to see if it’s discounted later or you risk it being sold out!

Retiring Products Lists

This retiring products lists contain items from the 2019 occasions catalog and 2018–2019 annual catalog. Product availability will be updated on the Inventory Status Report (see more details below). Products are available until June 3, 2019, or while supplies last only.

2019 Occasions Catalog
PDF- US
Excel -US

2018-2019 Annual Catalog
PDF -US
Excel -US

Flowers & 'Vertical Greetings'

Here is a pretty Spring card using some flowers from the 'Dear Doily' stamp set & the horizontal words from the 'Vertical Greetings' stamp set.

Check out how I used the stemmed leaves image from the Petal Pair Embossing folder along the right/middle edge.  

I love this DSP!  It is from the Nature's Poem DSP pack. 

This card is one of the cards that everyone at my April monthly classes got to make.   

NOTE:  The Doily Builder Framelits that go with this stamp set are SOLD OUT & will not be available again.  But the stamp set- 'Dear Doily' is still available to purchase. 

How did I color the flowers/leaves?  

1. I did a direct to stamp technique.  
2. I used Stampin' Write Markers & colored (using the brush tip (fat) end of them) directly onto the stamp.  
3. And then I stamped it onto a strip of Whisper White CS & punched it out. 

stamp set: 'Vertical Greetings' & 'Dear Doily' 
card stock:  

• Shaded Spruce- 5 1/2 x 8 1/2"- score at 4 1/4- fold in half for card base; 3 1/4 x 3 1/4; 2 3/4" strip- punch out circle with the 2 1/4" Circle Punch
• Mint Macaron- 5 x 3 3/4"
• Whisper White- 5 x 4 1/4"- for inside of the card; 2 3/4" strip- stamp flower/stem on it & punch it out with the 2" Circle Punch

designer paper:  Nature's Poem DSP- 3 x 3"
ink:  Shaded Spruce
Stampin' Write Markers:  Mint Macaron, Highland Heather
other:  2 1/4" Circle Punch, 2" Circle Punch, Big Shot, Standard Platform, Petal Pair Embossing Folder, Nature's Twine (Mint Macaron-)- 6", Dimensionals, Glue Dots

++++++++

Wow- what a weekend we had!  It was great!!  I am soooooo blessed to have SU! & my team, along with many other demonstrator friends- in my life!  PLUS all of you- my friends & customers!!!  My dear friend LeeAnn & I both got honored for our Million Dollar Sales Milestone.  We both had several team members there with us to help celebrate.  My team got us all matching t-shirts about this & a huge bouquet of balloons.  I was surprised & felt so special.  

Saturday morning we were all up early & attended an all day stamping event called On Stage.  We got to see the new upcoming annual catalog & several demonstrations/training sessions.   Then that evening I hosted a supper/stamping/swapping event for my team, LeeAnn's team & my friend Lorrie's team too.  It was great!  We all had a wonderful time stamping & visiting & sharing!  And we even had some SU! employees stop by to see us & visit.  It was great!!!!  

It is a long trip to Minneapolis & back.  But thankfully Manda went with me (along with Lynda & my Aunt Kathy).   Manda drove us up & back- so that was great for me!  I am just so glad that Manda  went with me.  It was great to spend the weekend with her & then all of my team that joined us too!

I have LOTS of pictures on my camera- so I'll hopefully get them downloaded after work tonight or Tuesday night- so that I can share them with you!!!

We got home mid afternoon yesterday.  I unloaded the car, unpacked my bag, got some laundry done & answered emails!  Deke didn't get in very early, so I we had a late supper of homemade pizza & called it a night.

This morning we are up early!  Deke is off to chore & head to the courthouse for his weekly board meeting there.  I'm headed to town to Manda's, will take the twins to school & then spend my day with the 3 little ones.  The twins will ride the bus here after school.  I'm hoping to get Brody's hair cut then.  There is a pre-school meeting tonight too- so not sure if I'll have kids for awhile during that time yet or not.  

NOTE:  I am sorry that I didn't get to post while I was gone this past weekend.  I didn't even have time to turn on my computer & it was after midnight both nights before I got to bed. 

Thanks for stopping by......I'll share another cute card again tomorrow, so be sure you stop back by. 

Gotta run....

I hope you have a MARVELOUS Monday!!

Happy Stamping!
Hugs-
SUSIE

'Best Catch'

Wow- what a great guy card!  There is alot of fun things going on here!  

It seems that birthday cards, guy cards & sympathy cards are the cards that I hear most of my customers say when we are stamping- that they need!  So I try to do guy cards often!  And with this Best Catch bundle- it has endless possibilities!

Don't you think that the guy standing in the water fishing is just a perfect fit!  

There is alot of Big Shot cutting done here on this card!  

Look at the words!  I stamped them on a strip of Crumb Cake card stock, then cut them out with the smallest stitched rectangle framelit, sponged around it & added a little shorter/wider piece of card stock underneath it.  

What do you think of the fish hanging there.  And the Basket Weave Embossing folder along the edge!  There is LOTS & LOTS of cute things going on here. 

stamp sets:  'Best Catch', 'Peaceful Place' & 'Itty Bitty Birthdays'
card stock:
inks:
other:
I will get this updated the first part of next week!  Just wanted to make sure I had a cute project for you to see today.

++++++++

I do not know if I'll be able to post anything until Monday.  If our hotel has internet & I have the time I will.  If not I'll catch up with you on Monday morning!

We are off to Minneapolis to attend SU! ON Stage this morning!  I'm super excited, as I have a big group from my team attending too!  And I'm super excited that my daughter Amanda is joining me too!  She hasn't attended a SU! event since before she had the twins- so it will be super fun to spend the weekend with her!  Tonight I have a leaders supper/event (and Manda gets to attend with me, as my guest).  And then tomorrow all demonstrators get to attend On Stage.  We get the NEW upcoming Annual Catalog, see demonstrations, have recognition, etc.  Our day will be jam packed full with lots of information & great things for me to come home & share with all of you!  

Minnesota is having lots of snow right now, so I hope & pray, that we have good roads & no problems getting there!  And that we have good traveling on Sunday to come home too. 

Gotta run......I hope you have a FABULOUS Friday!
Happy Stamping!
Hugs-
SUSIE

'Vibrant Vases' & the Vases Builder Punch!

Look at the embossing folder in the background of this card.   I used the Lovely Floral Embossing folder.  It is so pretty & just makes this card pop!

If you would look inside my house you would be able to tell that I love shades of grays & browns.  I designed this card to coordinate with the Wood Textures DSP.  In the photo the DSP looks more brown....but in person you can see all of the grays in it.  

I shadow stamped the flowers onto a 2 3/4" strip of Whisper White card stock using the Powder Pink ink pad & then punch it out using the 2" Circle Punch.  I added the Wink of Stella over the top of them.  

I stamped the vase onto a 2" strip of Whisper White card stock using the Gray Granite ink pad & punched it out using the Vase Builder punch. 

stamp set:  'Vibrant Vases'- Occasions Catalog- pg. 23
card stock:

• Basic Gray-
• Gray Granite-
• Powder Pink- RETIRING In Color
• Whisper White

designer paper:  Wood Textures DSP
ink:  Powder Pink, Gray Granite
other:  Starburst Punch, 2" Circle Punch, Powder Pink Shimmer Ribbon, Share What You Love Pearls, Pearlized Doilies, Big Shot, Standard Platform, Lovely Floral Embossing Folder, Dimensionals, Glue Dots, Wink of Stella, Paper Snips, Vases Builder Punch

+++++++

Yesterday was a busy day with the kids.  It was also the first night of racing for the 2019 season.  Ainslee got sick on Tuesday night- so I offered to stay home with her since it was so cold & windy out.  Trey decided he wanted to stay with us too, so the 3 of us hung out all night together.  I worked on stamping stuff when they left. 

Nathan didn't have a great night racing.  He got 5th in his heat & didn't finish the main, as he had motor problems.   

Deke & I are up early this morning at 5 to mark, sort & load hogs.  I'll then head to town to take the big boys to school & spend my day with the 3 little ones.

I have a roaster of pork cooking......so we'll all have a yummy supper.  I'll be sending a couple crock pots of meat with Nathan to his work tomorrow too- for an office luncheon he is doing.  

Tonight I'll be cutting card stock & working on my swap!!!  LOTS to do yet before I mhead to Minnesota tomorrow morning for a couple of Stampin' Up! Events. 

I hope you have a great Thursday!

Happy Stamping!
Hugs-

SUSIE

Butterfly Gala combined with Florentine Thinlits Dies

Wow- so what do you think of this card!!  It is bright, cheery & Spring like!!  

This is another one of the cards everyone made at my April monthly classes.  The colors of the cards at each class varied, to coordinate with the Gingham Gala DSP!  I'll get photos taken of the others & share with you sometime soon too.  They are all pretty!

stamp set:  'Butterfly Gala' & 'Florentine Filigree' (for the words)
card stock:

• Highland Heather-
• Whisper White-

designer paper:  Gingham Gala DSP
ink:  Black Memento
Stampin' Blends: Light & Dark Highland Heather
other:  Big Shot, Magnetic Platform, Florentine Thinlits Die, Rectangle Stitched Framelits, Butterfly Duet Punch, Gingham Gala Adhesive Backed Sequins, Clear Wink of Stella

+++++++

Yesterday was a busy day with the kids.  We were outside for several hours (some in the morning & some in the afternoon).  We are loving the nice weather. Trey, Masen & Ainslee all 3 rode in the tractor with Papa for awhile too.  The 3 big boys were here after school & played outside with us.  Brayden was out with his 4-H pigs & then he got to ride in the tractor with Papa too. 

Last night Deke worked in the field until late again & I burnt the midnight oil stamping.  I'm working on swaps for my team event I'm hosting at On Stage in Minneapolis- that I'm attending this coming weekend. 

This morning Deke is up early to chore & he'll head to a meeting in Mt. Pleasant.  I'm off to town to take the boys to school & spend my day with the 3 little ones.  

Tonight we are suppose to race if they don't get rained out.  Either way- I'll be stamping all night if we don't go or I'll be stamping when I get home from the races.

Gotta run.....

I hope you have a WONDERFUL Wednesday!
Happy Stamping!
Hugs-

SUSIE

Some Stampin' Up! IMPORTANT NEWS!

There is A LOT of information here.......so please read on.

Stampin' Up! has just announced this morning that they'll be transitioning to a new manufacturer for their dies & embossing folders.

They are moving to a direct-to-manufacturer relationship.  That means that they will work directly with the factories who manufacture their dies & folders instead of working with another company who then works with different factories.  This gives Stampin' Up! more control and potential in the manufacturing process.  So this is GREAT NEWS!

ABOUT THE NEW DIE CUTTING & EMBOSSING LINE
Through June 3, 2019-
Die & Folder Supplies:  While Supplies Last & Interruptions

• Inventory on some retiring dies may be depleted before the end of the 2019 Occasions Catalog/2018-2019 Annual Catalog sales period.  We will not replenish inventory on any retiring dies & folder that sell out. 
• Inventory on some dies & folders carrying over into the 2019-2020 Annual Catalog may be depleted too.  If this happens, they may go on back order status or they may not be orderable until the inventory has been replenished.  

April 15-June 3, 2019-

• Our current Big Shot cutting & embossing machine will be on the retiring list & while supplies last only.  This also includes related products such as plates & platforms.
• Dies & Embossing folders NOT included on the retiring list will be carried over into the 2019-2020 Annual Catalog.  We'll use up our current inventory before starting to ship new style dies, so even if you place an order in 2020- you might still receive the old-style die or folder.  *These are high-quality products & performances, for those that we currently carry.

Beginning June 4, 2019- 
2019-2020 Annual Catalog 

• All new dies and embossing folder (denoted with a "NEW" Icon in the catalog) will be produced by our new supplies & made in the new style with a different & high quality product design.
• For carryover dies & non 3D embossing folders, we'll use up our current inventory before starting to ship new-style dies, so even if you place an order in 2020, you might receive an old-style die or folder.  *These are high-quality products & performances, for those that we currently carry.
• All new & carry over 3D embossing folders will be produced by our new supplier & made in a new style with a different & high-quality product design.
• Carryover 3D embossing folders (previously named Dynamic) will be available to order beginning with he catalog launch, but were in the process on getting these reay to go & they'll be available as soon as possible.  We'll let you know when they are.
• There will not be a die-cutting & embossing machine available for purchase from Stampin' Up! in the 2019-2020 Annual Catalog.

NEW-STYLE DIES & EMBOSSING FOLDER-
Since Stampin' Up! is using a new supplier for their dies & embossing folders, they'll be manufactured differently, which means the way you use them will be a little different.  A few of the changes between the old-style & the new-style products are listed below.  In the future, Stampin' Up! will also provide videos to show to craft with the new-style dies & embossing folder and better showcase the features described below.

Here are some of the changes you'll notice with the new-style dies & embossing folders-

• The new-style open dies (that that coordinate with stamps) use a high quality metal that's thinner than before but still as strong and durable.
• The new-style dies have an added lip to the inside of the blades.
• On old-style dies, when you place an open die (dies that coordinate with stamps) over a stamped image, a small border of cardstock is visible around the stamped image. With the new-style dies, the die hugs the edge of the stamped image.  Instead of aligning the die to the space around the stamped image, you will align it to the edges of the stamped image.  When the image is cut, there will still be a little cardstock border around the image.
• They've improved the adhesive that secures the dies to the insert sheet in the package so that it's not too sticky.  It's easier to remove dies from the insert sheet & the adhesive won't cling to the dies.  
• They've standardized of the die inserts for easier storage.  There are now only 2 insert sizes:  5 x 7"- which coordinate with our the stamp cases & 6x6".  The standard sizes will allow uniform storage in whatever system you use.  The envelopes that the dies come in will be slightly larger. 
• With the old-style Dynamic folders, they recommended to spritz it with water to get a deeper impression.  You will not have to do this with the new-style folders.  They will create a crisp impression without spritzing.  The way the new folder are manufactured also gives options for more detailed and intricate designs in the future.  
• 3D folders are thinker than the old-style Dynamic folders.  Because they are thinner, you will need to use a shim- depending on the die-cutting & embossing machine you are using.  

STAMPIN' TRIMMER= DISCONTINUED
Stampin' Up! will be retiring the Stampin' Trimmer as of June 3, 2019, including all accessories- replacement cutting blades, scoring blades and cutting mats.  I LOVE this cutter & I am SUPER SAD to see it go.  But Stampin' Up! have had challenges with their blades & the supplier.  So they are taking the opportunity to research & explore a replacement option for paper cutter.  The NEW product will not be the same as the current Stampin' Trimmer.

There will be a gap in time between when the current Stampin' Trimmer retired and when the new product becomes available- but they do not currently have an estimated time frame on this.

While the replacement cutting blades will also retire with the trimmer & will not be featured in the 2019-2020 Annual Catalog, Stampin' Up! has ordered what would normally be a six months inventory of them, based on recent historical patterns.  But please know that this news could cause faster inventory depletion.  

• When the retiring list goes live on April 15, the order limit for the blades will increase from 3 to 6 & will remain at that until they are no longer available.
• From now until September, intermittent shipments of blades will be received from the supplier.  Throughout these months, Stampin' Up! anticipates times when the blades will not be orderable and not offered as a back order item.  During the non-orderable times you will have the option to enter an email address to receive notification when the blades are available again. 

Stampin' Trimmer- #126889= $30.00
Stampin' Trimmer blades- #126995= $6.00 (2 per pkg) limit of 3 pkgs per customer/order 
Stampin' Trimmer Scoring Blades- #126996= $5.00 (2 per pkg)
Stampin' Trimmer Replacement Mats- #131375= $4.00 (2 per pkg)

Price Increase in the 2019-2020 Stampin' Up! Annual Catalog

Stampin' Up! will also be doing some price changes in the 2019-2020 Annual Catalog.  Here is the note that they've posted & you can find the link to the new price list below too.

We regularly review our pricing- including increased supplier costs.  When it comes to making changes, we are conservative and put off price increases for as long as we can because we know they impact demonstrators and their customers. 

CLICK HERE  for a complete list of individual product price increases in the 2019-2020 Annual Catalog.  

Please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions!
I'm sure I'll find more details out about all of this when I'm in Minneapolis at On Stage this coming weekend. 
Happy Stamping!
Hugs-
SUSIE

Needle & Thread

I love how this card turned out!!  It is a totally Susie style card.

Check out the gorgeous stitching on the top of this card.  It was made using the Needlepoint Elements Framelits!  And do you see the stitching around the Pretty Label Punch?  That is done with a framelit too & then you just use the Pretty Label Punch to punch it out.  Super cool!  Super cute!

This was one of the cards that everyone who joined me for 3 of my monthly stampin' classes this past weekend got to make!  My class theme this month was Spring!  This is definitely a Spring looking card.  

This Needlepoint Nook Suite is pretty cool!  Be sure you check it out in the Occasions Catalog on pages 38 & 39.

This card reminds me of my Grandma Cox.  She did lots of embroidery & liked this Poppy Parade color too.  

I can honestly say that this DSP wasn't a top choice for me......but when I added it to this card & chose these colors with it- I just really liked it!  One of the neat things about this DSP pack is that one side is prints & the other side is a solid color with some type of continuous patterns in it, so it isn't near as busy looking as the print sides are. 

stamp set:  'Needle & Thread'
card stock:

• Poppy Parade-
• Sahara Sand-
• Whisper White-

designer paper:  Needlepoint Nook DSP
ink:  Poppy Parade
other:  Big Shot, Magnetic Platform, Needlepoint Elements Framelits, Leaf Punch, Pretty Label Punch, White Flax Ribbon, Clear Faceted Gems, Dimensionals, Glue Dots

+++++++

Yesterday was a busy day with kids.  When they left last night I made supper on the grill & took it out to Deke in the field.....so I rode one round (about 45 mins) with him the tractor.  I then burnt the midnight oil working on placing orders & catching up on stamping stuff.  And Deke ended up working in the field until after midnight too. 

This morning I'm up & headed to town to take the twins to school & spend my day with the 3 little ones.  Deke is up early to chore & he hopes to get lots of hours today in the field.  I'll be burning the midnight oil again tonight working on stamping stuff.......as I have LOTS to get done for this weekends On Stage event in Minneapolis.  

Gotta run.....
I hope you have a TERRIFIC Tuesday!
Happy Stamping!
Hugs-

SUSIE

'Flowering Desert'- a CUTE Catus!

This is another one of my cards everyone attending my All Occasions Card classes made last month.  I just really like the way it turned out!  

When I first saw this stamp set- I wasn't in love with it.  But the more I have played with it- I love it!  It is so fun & easy to use.  It has endless possibilities for sure in creating so many different projects with it.

You can see another cactus card I made, using this same stamp set by CLICKING HERE!

I combined alot of different products here, that are in the Occasions catalog. 

I stamped all of the images using the Old Olive ink.  But when I stamped 2 of the plant images- I stamped them off one time on my grid paper first- before stamping them onto my Whisper White square- so that they are slightly lighter.  Do you ever do this?  It is a great way to get more use out of just one color of an ink pad & getting a light & dark image!

stamp set:  'Flowering Desert'
card stock:

• Old Olive- 5 1/2 x 8 1/2"- score at 4 1/4"- fold in half for card base
• Pear Pizzazz- 5 x 3 3/4"
• Lovely Lipstick-  3 1/4" strip- cut out using the largest Scalloped Square Framelit; 1/2" strip- punch out little flower & using a glue dot stick it onto the cactus. 
• Whisper White- 4 x 5 1/4- stamp greeting on for the inside of the card; 2 3/4 x 2 3/4- stamp with cactus/plants on; 1/2" strip- stamp words onto & using your Paper Snips- cut to desired length & attach over the narrow DSP strip. 

designer paper:  All My Love DSP- 3 3/4 x 1"; 3 3/4 x 1/2"
ink:  Old Olive
other:  Big Shot, Magnetic Platform, Layering Square Framelits, Bitty Blooms Punch, Basic Rhinestone, Old Olive Linen Thread- 12" fold in half & tie a bow, Dimensionals, Glue Dots, Paper Snips

 ++++++++

Yesterday was another great day of stamping!  We had a great group & wonderful hostesses.  They brought yummy treats, had a super cute decorated table & were lots of help!  

I was beat when I got home last night.  I did a few things & ended up falling asleep on the couch- while waiting on Deke to come in from the field.  

This morning we are up early.  Deke is off to chore & head to the courthouse for his weekly board meeting.  I'm up to unload my car, put away some stamp stuff & head to town to get the boys.  I'll spend my day with the 3 little ones.  And tonight I"ll be burning the midnight oil stamping!

I hope you have a MARVELOUS Monday!!

Happy Stamping!
Hugs-
SUSIE

A SUPER CUTE bunny!!

What a SUPER CUTE bunny this little guy is!!!  He looks so sweet & innocent.  He looks like to me that he is praying, the way he is holding his hands.  

He would make a great Easter card, Baptism card, Baby card, Birthday card, etc.....he'd be great for many different occasions.  

I used the Occasions Catalog 'Fable Friends' stamp set- pg. 30 to make this card.  

So do you agree- isn't he just so CUTE!

This is a fun fold card that has a center opening.  This is what it looks like when it is opened up.  I love the way it turned out!

stamp set:  'Fable Friends'
card stock:  

• Thick Whisper White- 7 3/4"x 4 1/4"; 4 1/4 x 2 1/4"
• Whisper White-  2" strip- stamp words on & punch out with the 1 1/4" Circle Punch, 1 7/8 x 3 1/4"- stamp bunny on & color with the Stampin' Blends; 4 x 5 1/4"- stamp greeting on inside of the card
• Pool Party-  4 x 1/2"; 4 x 1/2"; 2" strip- punch out 1 3/8" Scalloped Circle Punch, 1/2" strip- punch out large star with Twinkle Builder Punch

designer paper:  Twinkle Twinkle DSP- 4 x 2"; 4 x 2"
ink:  Black Memento
Stampin' Blends-  Light Pool Party, Light Crumb Cake, Light Petal Pink
other:  1 3/8" Scalloped Circle Punch, 1 1/4" Circle Punch, Pool Party 3/8" Shimmer Ribbon- 3", Big Shot, Magnetic Platform, Stitched Rectangle Framelits, Twinkle Builder Punch, Dimensionals, Glue Dots

+++++++=

Yesterday was a busy day & full of stamping!  I had a great time at my class in N. Liberty with everyone.  Gloria was our hostess this month.  She had yummy treats, cute table decor & was great help!  

I got home last night about 7:30 & I burnt the midnight oil (plus)- cutting everything for today's 2 stamp classes.  I'm headed out this morning to Hiawatha & I look forward to my day stamping with everyone joining me there.  Cathy & Judy are my 2 hostesses for these classes.  I can't wait to see everyone, stamp & share!

I hope you have a SUPER Sunday!!
Happy Stamping!
Hugs-
SUSIE

'First Steps' baby girl card-

Check out this pretty baby girl card!  I love the hand prints!  I used Melon Mambo for the card base, as that is what matched this DSP!  

I think it turned out cute!  Adding the Melon Mambo Glitter Enamel Dots just finished it off!

stamp set:  'First Steps'
card stock:

• Melon Mambo- 5 1/2 x 8 1/2- score at 4 1/4- fold in half for card base
• Pool Party- 4 1 4/ x 2 1/4"; 2 3/4" strip
• Whisper White- 4 x 5 1/4 (for inside card greeting), 4 x 1; 2 3/4" Strip

designer paper:  How Sweet It Is- 4x2"
ink:  Melon Mambo
other:  Big Shot, Layering Circles Framelits, Magnetic Platform, White Flax ribbon, Starburst Punch, Glitter Enamel Dots, Dimensionals, Glue Dots

These are the 2 baby girl & boy cards that everyone made at my All Occasions Card Classes.
I posted the Coastal Cabana boy one a few weeks ago.  You can CLICK HERE TO SEE IT!

++++++++

Yesterday was a busy day with the kids.  Deke had another meeting yesterday, so he wasn't home to eat lunch with us.  When they went home last night I literally spent my whole night stamping.  

I'm up early this morning to finish getting all of the cards cut for this weekends 3 stamp classes.  I'm off to N. Liberty after bit, as I have my monthly class there with my group today!  I am looking forward to seeing everyone- stamping & sharing!  I can't wait!

Gotta run.......

I hope you have a SENSATIONAL Saturday!

Happy Stamping!
Hugs-

SUSIE

'Buttertfly Gala'

This was the first card I created last month for my 40 card class!  How fun & easy it is to do a reverse image of a punch!  Notice how I put a 2x2" piece of DSP behind the punched out butterflies!  Cool huh!

I had everyone stamp the butterflies on the lower/middle of the Whisper White piece of card stock & then punch it out; turn their card stock over (so that none of the stamped image showed).  They could then add the stamped words, ribbon & DSP.  I had them put the punched out butterflies on the inside of their card!

The white piece here is to resemble a mason jar!  See how I took a little  Circle punch & made just a tiny slit out of the top of each side.  That helped to hold my ribbon in place too!

stamp set:  'Butterfly Gala' & 'Rooted in Nature' (words)
card stock:

• Calypso Coral-
• Grapefruit Grove-
• Whisper White-

designer paper:  Painted Seasons- SAB choice- NOT available now
ink:  Calypso Coralother:  Butterfly Duet Punch, Basic Pearls, small Circle punch, Grapefruit Grove Ribbon, Dimensionals, Glue Dots

++++++++

Busy here with kids & stamping!
I hope you have a FABULOUS Friday!
Happy Stamping!
Hugs-

SUSIE

'Piece of Cake'

You all know that I'm a punch girl & I love this Cake Builder punch!!!  This is just such a cute bundle!

This is a fun birthday card that was one everyone at my 40 card classes made.

I like this card alot!  The colors are bright & cheery.  It is fun & it is clean & simple!  What a perfect birthday card!

stamp sets:  'Piece of Cake' & 'Amazing Life'
card stock:

• Coastal Cabana- 5 1/2 x 8 1/2"- score at 4 1/4", fold in half for card base; 1 1/2" strip- stamp cake onto & punch out with the Cake Builder Punch
• Bermuda Bay- 4 1/4 x 1"; 4 1/4 x 2 3/4
• Basic Black- 1 1/2" strip- punch out cake stand
• Whisper White- 4 x 5 1/4- stamp greeting on for inside of the card; 4 x 2 1/2- stamp words on the lower bottom

designer paper:  How Sweet It Is DSP- 4 x 3"

ink:  Black Memento
Stampin' Blends:  Light Bermuda Bay, Light Daffodil Delight (for the candles)
other:  Cake Builder Punch, 1/4" Mini Striped Bermuda Bay- 4", Dimensionals, Glue Dots

This is just another one of the different cake options in this stamp set!  I just had to share it......isn't it cute with chocolate frosting dripping down off of it!  I used the Dark Soft Suede Stampin' Blend & my Wink of Stella to do the frosting!

++++++++

Yesterday was a busy day with the kids.  When they left last night- I made a quick trip to take our hog check to the night depository at the bank.  I then came home & stamped the rest of the night.

This morning I'm up early to stamp.  Deke is off to chore, as he has a meeting at the courthouse this morning.  I'll headed to town to get Trey & then spend my day with the 3 little ones.  Tonight I'll be burning the midnight oil again stamping!
 

I hope you have a great Thursday!!

Happy Stamping!

Hugs-
SUSIE