613 Avenue Create #104 - Anything Goes

Hi, Friends!  This week's challenge at 613 Avenue Create has no option, so create whatever you want and post your project.  If you have some new crafty goodies, show them off!  Our sponsors are Melonheadz Illustrations and QKR Stampede. Naturally, the DT has some brilliant inspiration for you using our sponsors' images. Check out last week's winners, too. And get ready for our block party coming January 11!

613 Avenue Create #103 - Anything Goes Option-First Day of Winter-Use Snowflakes

Because Winter arrives today, our newest challenge at 613 Avenue Create has the option to Use Snowflakes.  (I sure hope we don't get any snow this winter here in Georgia.)  Our sponsor is the always fabulous Rick St. Dennis.  I've used Mrs. Frosty:

I embossed Coredinations cardstock with a Tim Holtz Snowflake embossing folder, applying Chipped Sapphire Distress Ink directly from the pad to the embossed snowflakes. I colored Mrs. Frosty with Spectrum Noir Markers, adding a bit of black Wink of Stella to her eyes, mouth and buttons.  Her body has a coating of clear Wink of Stella.  I cut her out with a Scalloped Oval Nesties, dusting it with blue chalk before removing it from the die.  The sentiment is a Cricut cut, also coated with clear WOS.

I'm entering these challenges:

Simon Says Monday Challenge - Anything Goes; Simon Says Wednesday Challenge - Winter Inspiration; Brown Sugar Challenge #125 - Christmas;  Stamplorations December Challenge - Stamps and my favorite Technique (October Challenge - Embossing); and CASology #126 - Snow.

Again, I kept it all flat for ease of mailing. I love the texture of the embossing and the look of the distress ink. Happy Crafting, my friends!!

You Aced It

Our grandson aced it - he's on the honor roll, and he made the basketball team.  He's a scholar and an athlete :)  His proud granny and grandpa sent him this card:

When he visited us this past summer, our grandson was totally into card tricks. He was absolutely amazing.  He had us, our neighbors and friends, even strangers, totally enthralled by what he could do.  So I ordered this stamp set called In the Cards from Cas-ual Fridays. I fussy cut the cards after stamping them. I made the red dots with a hole punch - flatter than enamel dots for mailing. The dots have a bit of clear Wink of Stella. Quick and easy!  I'm delighted with how it turned out.

I'm entering a few challenges:  Stamplorations December Challenge - Stamps & Designer's Choice (I chose the April challenge-favorite technique Fussy Cutting); Simon Says Monday Challenge - Anything Goes; Addicted to Stamps & More - Anything Goes - Option Love.

Have a great day!

613 Avenue Create #102-Anything Goes-Option Gift Packaging

Our optional twist at 613 Avenue Create this week is to create gift packing - after all, the holiday season is right here, right now! Of course, we give gifts at other times, too, so let us see what you come up with.  Our fantastic sponsors are Bugaboo Stamps and Oak Pond Creations.  The DT has created some fun inspiration for you to check out.  And don't forget to see if you won last week.

613 Avenue Create #101-Anything Goes-Option Create Your Own Challenge

This week we have one of my favorite challenges at 613 Avenue Create - Create Your Own Challenge. Our sponsors are Fitztown and Digital Delights by Louby Lou. Here's the card I made using Fitztown's Winter 2 image:

I colored the image with my Spectrum Noir Markers, cut it out and used a decorative corner punch on the top two corners.  I added a simple sentiment and adhered the image to a red square card base (4x4), adding faux stitching (which didn't photograph well for some reason) around the edges.

 I'm entering these challenges:  Simon Says Wednesday Challenge - Christmas/Holidays; Robyn's Fetish Challenge Blog #241 - Christmas Cards; and Sparkle Creations Weekly Christmas Card Challenges #1.

Here's the chart to use to Create Your Own Challenge.  I used image, sentiment, solid color paper, faux stitching and square card.  Which options will you choose?

Birthday Cupcake

I'm back with a birthday card for my grandniece. I used another of the stamp sets that I won from Stamplorations - Sketched: Cupcake. I thought my sweet niece would love this image because she's into baking cupcakes lately.  She made some darling turkey cupcakes for Thanksgiving. She's across the country from us, so we only saw pictures - they were cute as can be.  Here's her card:

I embossed the card front with dots. After stamping the cupcake, I colored it with my Spectrum Noirs.  I cut out the cupcake and the sentiment (CTMH) using Spellbinders scalloped circle dies.  I dusted the dies with chalk after embossing them. The purple frosting has a coating of clear WOS - love it! I die cut the stars too. The cupcake and sentiment are popped up with foam tape. Then I added a gold sequin.

I'm entering a few challenges:  Addicted to CAS #53 - Dots; Less is More - Celebrations; and Stamplorations Bi-Weekly Sketch Challenge #24.  Here's the sketch at Stamplorations:

I've got two more birthday cards to make...so I'll be back soon.

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My Sister's Birthday

I am so behind in cards for my family with November birthdays.  My older sister's birthday was the first week of November, and I just got her card made.  I have 3 others to make and mail with gifts. I'm usually very timely, but so much was going on last month that I just got behind. I'm showing it here before I mail it because she doesn't look at my blog.  Here it is:

I used Stamploration's Vignette It's Your Day stamp and colored the cake with Spectrum Noir markers. I think the wonky cake is fun. I managed a bit of shading - still working on my technique.  I cut the image with a Spellbinders die and dusted it with both yellow and brown chalk before removing it from the die.  I matted it and added a border from a Martha Stewart punch to one side of the matting.  The happy birthday is a Cricut cut gifted to me by a friend. I added some bling and a burgundy ribbon to match the sentiment. The white frosting has some glitter added with WOS and a Stardust Jelly Roll pen.

I actually won this stamp set and 5 others in July at Stamplorations Birthday Blog Hop. I will be using the other stamps soon - they are great.

I'm entering these challenges:  Less is More - Celebrations; Simon Says Wednesday Challenge - Anything Goes; Crafty Hazelnut's Patterned Paper Challenge - December;  Seize the Birthday - Option Leaves; and Stamplorations Anything Goes Challenge.

613 Avenue Create #100-Anything Goes-Option Create a Calendar

Our latest challenge at 613 Avenue Create is for our 100th!! It's truly amazing that we've reached that wonderful milestone. Our Anything Goes challenge has the option to Create a Calendar - monthly, perpetual, birthday, advent, mini, etc. I made a calendar last year, and it was lots of fun.

Also, get ready for our 2nd Annual Block Party on January 2, 2015. It will be a blast - we'll have more details for you soon.

Click over to our house, check out last week's winners, and post your entry or entries in this challenge. Happy Crafting!

Anniversary Card

Today I'm displaying the card I made my husband for our 42nd wedding anniversary. Of course, it's clean and simple - you know me. I especially love the sentiment.

I used an embossing folder for the trees - I'm not sure of the name.  I inked the image and kraft card base with CTMH chocolate ink. The sentiment is Hero Arts using white embossing powder. The die cut hearts have a coating of clear WOS.

I'm entering some challenges:  Brown Sugar Challenge #121 - Use Two or More Colors; Crafting When we Can #83 - Clean & Simple;  Fan-Tastic Tuesday #63 - Anything Goes Option Add a Tree or Trees; and Simon Says Wednesday Challenge - Anything Goes.

I wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving!!

613 Avenue Create #99-Anything Goes-Option Use Subway Art

Our newest Anything Goes Challenge at 613 Avenue Create has the option to Use Subway Art. Subway Art stamps have been around for quite some time, but you know me, I'm always late trying trends. I've had this CTMH stamp for over a year, and never used it. It's perfect for this challenge and time of year:

It's hard to see in the photo, but the image background is actually colored tan.  I used a Spectrum Noir Marker to roughly color the white card stock.  I like the look - it's uneven and gives the paper a textured appearance. I used CTMH Chocolate ink on the stamp. The leaves are stamped in Memento Tuxedo Black and colored with SN markers.  I fussy cut them and outlined the edges in black. I added a few sequins for a finishing touch.

I'm entering these challenges:  Simon Says Wednesday Challenge:  Thanks/Thanksgiving; Mema's Crafts November Challenge:  Anything Goes; Stamplorations November Challenge - Stamps and Layers; and Paula Holifield Crafts - Clean and Simple.

Have a wonderful week!

613 Avenue Create #98-Anything Goes-Option use the Word "Hello"

613 Avenue Create is asking you to help us celebrate World Hello Day on November 21. Our Anything Goes challenge has the option to use the word Hello. Our 3 awesome sponsors, Flat Friends Boutique, Oddball Art Stamp Co., and Di's Digi Stamps have provided the DT with some wonderful images for your inspiration for this challenge. Drop by and join in the fun!

Gold Stars

Today's post is another grandson card. Here it is:

I really like the Close to My Heart Stamp.  I used it to add a personal message to the outside. Everything is from my stash.  The stars are stamped in Brilliance Gold ink. I coated them with some clear WOS.  The heart has a coating of Glossy Accents. Our grandson really liked the card...and what was tucked inside :)

I'm entering these challenges:  Virginia's View Challenge #9 - Metallic Elements; Brown Sugar Challenge #120 - Anything Goes; and Sister Act Card Challenge #83 - Anything Goes.

Have a wonderful weekend!

613 Avenue Create #97-Anything Goes-Option RAK

Hi, Crafty Friends!  This week's challenge at 613 Avenue has the option to celebrate Random Acts of Kindness Week.  My card is for a friend of mine. I used QKR Stampede's Smiling Flowers. I think the flowers are just darling.  I recently purchased Spectrum Noir Markers and used them to color the image. Then I coated the flowers with my clear WOS marker. The border is a Fiskars punch I got a Marshall's over a year ago. The card stock and DP are from my stash. The sequins and sentiment (SRM Stickers) were gifted to me by my friend Virginia Lu.

I'm entering these challenges:  Simon Says Wednesday Challenge-Thinking of You; Sister Act Challenge-Anything Goes; and 7 Kids College Fund-Anything Goes.

Have a great day!

613 Avenue Create #96-Anything Goes-Option Holiday Thanks

Hello Crafty Friends!  This week's Anything Goes challenge at 613 Avenue Create has the option to show Holiday Thanks. Our wonderful sponsors are Aurora Wings and Delicious Doodles.  The DT has rocked the challenge. Check them out - you will be totally inspired by their creations. Last week's winners are posted - you might be one :) Have fun!!

613 Avenue Create #95 -Anything Goes Option Bags, Tags, Boxes & More

I'm back with the newest challenge from 613 Avenue Create - Anything Goes with the option to create Bags, Tags, Boxes & More.  Our sponsors are Bugaboo Stamps and Beansie Doodles.  I used Beansie Doodles sweet little Sew What Fairy on a gift bag:

Unintentional creases and all, I like my bag.  The fairy is colored with a combination of Sharpies and Bics. I used a decorated clothes pin (American Crafts, I think) to close the bag. Cute gift for a girl, don't you think?

I will be back later to enter some challenges.  Be sure to visit 613 Avenue Create to link up your project and to see our winners from last week.  Happy Crafting!!

613 Avenue Create #92-Anything Goes

The new challenge at 613 Avenue Create is Anything Goes with no optional twist so let us see what you come up with. You'll want to check out the DT's inspiration, last week's winners and our sponsors for the week:  Chubby Mermaid and Decosse's Dynamite Doodles. Join in the fun and get crafty!!

613 Avenue Create #91-Anything Goes-Option Use a Heart

Hello, friends! Today's challenge at 613 Avenue Create is Anything Goes with the option to Use a Heart in honor of World Heart Day, September 29.  I've used Bunches of Love from our sponsor Oak Pond Creations. Lacy Sunshine Stamps is a sponsor also.  Here's my card:

I colored the hearts using colored pencils and Gamsol.  I fussy cut the and popped them up on a black background using foam tape. I adhered the panel to a blue card base, adding sequins and a sentiment.  Everything is from my stash.

I am having computer issues, so I will have to come back to enter some challenges.  Have a good day!

School Card

Here's another card to encourage our grandson as he starts his junior high school days. I love the back pack image. It's Recollections - I got it on clearance at Michaels a couple of years ago.  The faux Washi strips are images from Close to My Heart as are the chevron stamp and the bubble "Hi." I used my new Hero Arts Shadow Inks (Butter Bar, Orange Soda), CTMH Tulip Ink, and Versa Magic Gingerbread Chalk Ink. The card stock is from my stash. Everything is flat to the card for ease in mailing.

I'm entering these challenges:  Simon Says Wednesday Challenge - Anything Goes; Brown Sugar #113- Anything Goes; and Sister Act #76- Anything Goes.

613 Avenue Create #90-Anything Goes-Option Create Your Own Challenge

Hi, All!  This week's challenge at 613 Avenue Create has the option of your using our chart to Create Your Won Challenge.  We ask that you use one element from each column as you create your project.  Here's the chart:



We also have a special Watermark Contest. As our team rolls our own new Team Watermarks, you have a chance to win your own Personal Watermark just by leaving a comment. The watermark will be designed by Katheryne Elizabeth who is a certified Graphic Designer, Illustrator and Digital Artist for Whimsey Stamps. How cool is that?!

Be sure to check our last week's winners and show us what you come up with this week.

Love You Grandson

I made another card for our grandson. I believe I make for cards for him than anyone else.
But that's what card making Granny's do, right? He's growing up so fast - he's just begun the 7th grade! Here's my latest card for him:

The card stock is Recollections. The ink, DP and sentiment are Close to My Heart - I've had the DP and stamp for several years and never used them before. I hand cut the sentiment word bubble and popped it up.

Those "enamel dots" are DIY.  I used Perler beads and baked them as I've seen other bloggers do on You Tube. They are larger than I would like, but they're ok. However, I have to tell you that I didn't have real success with melting the beads in the oven.  The results were quite uneven so I got very few usable dots. I may try again if I can find smaller beads to begin with. Otherwise, I'm through with the experiment.

I'm entering these challenges:  Virginia's View Challenge #7 - Patterned Paper (second entry); Darnell's NBUS Challenge #2 (second entry); and Creative Corner - Male.

I'm so happy you stopped by :)

613 Avenue Create #89 - Anything Goes

Hi, Crafty Friends!  The new challenge at 613 Avenue Create is Anything Goes.  Our sponsor is Rick St. Dennis. So get crafting and show us what you come up with!  Here's my project - a tag. If you look closely, you can see the ribbon at the top. I should have had the ribbon show up better in the picture...

The image is Rick's Single Daffodil.  I colored it with Distress Markers.  You can't really see in the picture, but I lightly chalked the card stock so it is a very light pink, not white.  I added Wink of Stella to the daffodil. There's a band of sparkly ribbon at the bottom, and I placed some rhinestones here and there. Everything except the image is from my stash.

I'm entering these challenges:  Suzy Bee's Bloomin Challenge #46 - Anything Goes; Crafty Catz Challenge #246 - Clean & Simple; Polkadoodles Challenge Week 36 - Tag, You're It.

Before I go, I want to tell you about a surprise for you at 613 Avenue Create:

613 Avenue Create Facebook Contest Alert!!!! 
Today we reveal our official Facebook Feature Badge.  In celebration, we will award one lucky Commenter the chance to work with Graphic / Digital Designer Kathyrne Elizabeth and develop their personal watermark. Best of all...We are footing the bill.
  Visit our Facebook Page and leave a comment.
Here is our new FB Feature Badge.  It will be awarded only on our FB page.

Have a great day!

Using My Schtuff

Darnell of djkardkreations has another NBUS (Never Before Used Schtuff) challenge on her blog. Since I have tons of NBUS, I am compelled to enter. I used some blog candy that I won from the talented and generous Mary of Carolina Cards by Mary H - thanks again, Mary!

The card is for a line dancing friend who is not feeling well. Our group will send it to her. I used the sketch #19 from Stamplorations so I'm entering that challenge also.

Here's my card using this NBUS:  Memory Box Border Trellis die and the carnation stamp from Hero Arts Blossom Etchings stamp set. The background paper is from CTMH and I've had it for probably a couple of years.

Non NBUS items:  I inked the blossom with Hero Arts Orange Soda Shadow Ink; I used my Peeled Paint Distress Marker for the stem. The bow is a Martha Stewart punch. The sentiment is inked with CTMH Chocolate. All cardstock is from my stash.

I'm also entering the Simon Says Wednesday Challenge - Rubber or Clear Stamps - No Digis. I hope you have a happy day crafting!

613 Avenue Create-Anything Goes-Option Create Your Own Color Challege

Have we got a fun option for our challenge for you this week at 613 Avenue Create - Create Your Own Color Challenge using this chart:

We'd like you to choose any combination of the 6 colors list and any of the listed 3 neutrals. Ink up and get playing!!

All Patterned Paper

I made a card using all patterned paper so I could enter Virginia's View Challenge this month.  I cut my white card base front on an angle so the inner patterned paper would be visible.  I stamped my flowers on light colored patterned paper also to give them some texture.  I love how the green ink allowed the pattern to show through. Then I fussy cut the flowers and popped them up using foam tape. All papers and ink are Close to My Heart, but I don't know the names. The tiny sentiment was loaned to me by a friend. These are cheerful fall colors.  Everything is from my stash:

It took me a while to work this out, but I do like how it looks. I hope you like it too.  I'm entering these challenges:  Virginia's View #7 - Patterned Paper; Mema's Crafts - September Challenge (Fall Colors); Hazelnut's Patterned Paper Challenge - September; and Addicted to Stamps and More #11 - Anything Goes.

613 Avenue Create #87-Anything Goes w/ Option Sights, Sounds, Tastes of Autumn

This week's challenge at 613 Avenue Create is Anything Goes with the fun option of showing the Sights, Sounds and Tastes of Autumn. Our sponsors are Melonheadz Illustrations and Meljen's Designs.  I used Meljen's Cinnamon Harvest Mug. My mug has mulled wine - such a yummy drink. Of course, I love spiced apple cider, too :)  We're already seeing the leaves falling from the trees here in Georgia so Autumn is definitely on my mind.

I colored the image with a combination of Sharpies and Copics.  I added some leaves from a Fiskars border punch. I used a decorative corner punch and lightly chalked the background. I covered the image with clear Wink of Stella. Glitter glue adds sparkle to the swirls of steam. The sentiment is Close to My Heart.

I'm entering these challenges:  Simon Says Wednesday Challenge - Anything Goes; My Time to Craft #256 - Food & Drink; and The Sisterhood of Snarky Stampers # 15- K is for Kraft.

Modeling Paste Card

Today's card marks something totally new for me. I have been seeing beautiful cards made with different brands of embossing paste and stencils. I finally got some modeling paste from Michael's - made by Artist Loft (Michael's house brand). I decided to give it a try because it's a lot less expensive than the other brands around.  It comes in a tube rather than a jar. Also, it's off white rather than white. But I decided to give it a try anyway.

I was really happy with the results. I didn't get it totally even, but I think that adds to the charm. I layered two die cut flowers and added some hand cut leaves. I popped a sequin onto the flower and a placed a bit of glitter glue in the sequin's center. Then I stamped and heat embossed the Hero Arts sentiment on vellum - stamping on vellum is also new for me. I will come back later and enter some challenges.

Edited to enter these challenges:  Stamplorations August Challenge - Stamps/Die Cuts; PDE Linky Party #17 - Metal Dies or Punches; and The Cutting Edge #8 - I was inspired by the white background and flowers on Kay's card.

613 Avenue Create #86-Anything Goes-Option Post-It Notes

This week's challenge at 613 Avenue Create has a really fun option to our Anything Goes theme - create a Post-It Note holder!! The DT ladies have really outdone themselves. Be sure to check them out. Our sponsors are Bugaboo Stamps, All Dressed Up, and Di's Digi Stamps. Have a great day crafting :)

Pinwheel Time

Hi, there! I have another card today, and I'm so happy to be able to post it. Our house phone and internet were down for 4 days this week due to a lightning strike. I was lost without the internet. I am so glad things are back on track now. I made this card a few days ago.

The DP is from scraps from my stash. Using plain scrap cardstock, I hand cut a 4 inch (I think) square to make my pinwheel. Then I stamped the background on one side of the paper using a CTMH stamp. I cut towards the middle from each corner. When it came to gluing it down in the middle, I couldn't (and still can't) find my glue dots. Fortunately, I had some excellent liquid glue and got it done. I just hope those darn glue dots would show up soon...For some reason the sentiment (also CTMH) is showing as pink in the photo,but it's stamped in the same orange ink that I used on the pinwheel. Go figure...

I think pinwheels were a big rage a while back, but I never made one then. I can be slow to catch on to trends - LOL!

I'm entering these challenges:  Addicted to CAS #45- Geometric; Sister Act #71 - Anything Goes; and Simon Says Monday Challenge - Anything Goes.

613 Avenue Create #85 - Anything Goes

Hey, Crafty Friends! Today's challenge at 613 Avenue Create is Anything Goes with no option. So just let your creativity take you anywhere it wants to go. We know you've got some amazing projects to show us. Stop by and check out winners from last week also. Happy Crafting!!

My Sunshine

Hi, there. Today's card is representative of a sunny Summer day in Georgia, or anywhere, for that matter.

The clouds and sun are a Pink Paislee stamp that I won as blog candy from Mema's Crafts quite some time ago. The tree is CTMH. I fussy cut all the images and grounded the tree with some Baker's Twine.  All papers are from my stash. I think it's kind of cute and fun - quick and easy, too!

I'm entering these challenges:  Simon Says Wednesday Challenge - Summer; Crafty Hazelnut's Patterned Paper Challenge - August; Imagination Crafts Challenge Blog - Summer Holidays or Create a Scene; and Mema's Craft's August Challenge - Anything Goes.

Thanks for stopping by!

Shape Card

I'm trying to stretch myself with my cardmaking so today I decided to make another shape card.  I looked at some of my Cricut cartridges to see what caught my eye. I decided on the CTMH Artiste cart and made this neat spool of thread shape card:

Everything is from my stash. The DP is from CTMH and so is the sentiment. I thought the DP sort of looked like multi-colored thread. I cut it twice at 5 inches and glued the two together at the top to make my card. It will fit into a standard A2 envelope. I'm not sure who will get it, but I have several friends and family members who sew...

I'm entering these challenges:  Brown Sugar #107 - Anything Goes; Sister Act Challenge #70 - Anything Goes; Virginia's View Challenge #6 - Shape Card; and Stamplorations August Challenge - Stamps and Die Cuts.

Boot Shape Card

A friend gave me the template for this boot card a while back. I traced it and hand cut it - quick and simple.

The picture is not the best, there are shadows because it's overcast today. Also, I did get a little crease at the top right somehow between making the card and taking the picture. This was the last of the gold paper I had so I didn't try to remake it. I like the texture of the paper. Everything is from my stash. I wouldn't mind owning a real boot like this - check the low heel - LOL!!

I'm entering these challenges:  Virginia's View Challenge - Shape Card; Mema's Crafts - August Challenge Anything Goes; and Sisters of Craft - August Challenge Anything Goes.

613 Avenue Create #84-Anything Goes-Option Sights, Sounds, Smells or Tastes of Summer

 Good morning, Friends! Our challenge at 613 Avenue Create today is Anything Goes with the Option to show us the Sights, Sounds, Smells or Tastes of Summer.  What makes you think of summer - is it the smell of rain? The taste of sweet watermelon? The sight of a gorgeous sunset? The sound of children laughing and playing? We'd love to see your interpretation.

Click over to the blog to see the DT's inspiration - and to meet two new team members. You might also find out that you won last week.

Happy Crafting!

For Two Brothers

Hello, Friends. Sadly, I needed sympathy cards for two brothers - friends of my husband since their teen years. Their mother passed away. They live in different states so I created and sent them the same card.

The lighthouse stamp is from Our Daily Bread (Light of the World). I used a Nestie to cut it out. It's stamped in CTMH Chocolate ink. I sponged the image and the CTMH sentiment with ink, but I'm not sure which ink I used. All card stock is from my stash.

I'm entering a few challenges:  Simon Says Wednesday Challenge - Anything Goes; Word Art Wednesday #143- Anything Goes; Sister Act Challenge #68 - Anything Goes; Our Daily Bread - Sponging or Stencils; Mema's Craft - August - Anything Goes

I hope your day is a good one.

613 Avenue Create #82- Anything Goes - Option Use A Sentiment

Our latest challenge at 613 Avenue Create is to Use A Sentinent - easy, peasy, right?! I mean, we mostly use sentiments anyway. Our sponsors are The Paper Shelter, Scrapper's Delight and Fitztown. The DT has delightful projects showcased. And don't forget to see if you were a winner from last week's challenge. Happy Crafting to you!

613 Avenue Create #81-Anything Goes-Optional Party Time Theme

Hi, all! Today's challenge at 613 Avenue Create has the option Party Time! Celebrate anything you wish - a birthday, anniversary, new baby, etc. I'm using Oak Pond's image called Jeni's Margarita - party on!!

The image is colored with Bics and colored pencils/gamsol.  I used Martha Stewart glitter glue for salt on the glass and on the dots of confetti.  The lime has a bit of clear Wink of Stella as does the margarita and glass. The card stock and DP are from my stash. 

I'm back to enter these challenges:  Addicted to CAS #43 - Celebrate; Sister Act Card Challenge #66 - Anything Goes; Crafty Hazelnut's Patterned Pattern Challenge - July.

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Happy (Belated) Birthday to Darnell

I am late posting this birthday wish for Darnell, a super nice lady who makes wonderful cards. Her blog is fantastic and her posts are so funny and fun. Ardyth is hosting a virtual party for Darnell. You can post a card via link at her blog. Ardyth is another super talented card maker. I am so blessed to have become blog buddies with both ladies. Today is really the last day to link up (Ardyth said BEFORE July 16). Here's my card:

Everything is from my stash. I hope Darnell likes it!

Die Cut Window Card

Here I am with another word die card. I challenged myself to try a technique that I saw on Jennifer McGuire's blog. Of the two techniques Jennifer demonstrated, I tried the easier. To my surprise, it worked!  I don't mean I'm surprised that Jennifer's technique worked.  I mean that I'm surprised I could do it - LOL!!  I'm having a great time lately using word dies - who knew they could be so much fun??

I inserted another die cut oval beneath the word to provide contrast. The laugh die is from Little Yellow Bicycle. The oval dies are Nesties. The sequins are Lawn Fawn. All papers are from my stash.

I'm entering this in Moxie Fab Word - Wonderful Words Challenge; Virginia's View Challenge #5 - Use a Die; and Crafty Hazelnut's Patterned Paper Challenge- July.

613 Avenue Create #80-Option Shaped Cards

Today's challenge at 613 Avenue Create is Anything Goes with the option to create a Shaped Card. Sounds like fun, doesn't it? The DT has some fabulous inspiration for you using our sponsor Rick St. Dennis. We've announced last week's winners - were you one of them? You'll want to check out our site so you can join in the fun. Happy Crafting!!

613 Avenue Create #79-Anything Goes/Create Your Own Challenge

Our current challenge at 613 Avenue Create is to Create Your Own Challenge using this chart:

Our sponsors are Delicious Doodles and Creative Bug. I used Creative Bug's Taveon with Bath Toy and chose the following elements from the chart:  Image, Sentiment, Solid Color Paper, (Faux) Stitching and Paper Punch:

I thought this little guy was so cute. The tiny fish is his bath toy, but I decided they would float in the ocean rather than a tub :)  Everything is from my stash. I've had that wavy blue paper for years. I used a circle punch to make the sun. The speech bubble is Close to My Heart. I colored the images with pencils and gamsol.

I'm entering these challenges:  Creative Bug #4 - Signs of Summer (ocean swim, sun, blue sky); CASology #102 - Float; Addicted to CAS #42 - Sky; and Chocolate Coffee & Cards #68 - Summer Days.

Summer Hello

Today I have a bright and sunny card that I had a lot of fun making. I used a technique I have been seeing all over card blogs lately - inlaying a die cut. It was so easy. I also made my own background paper using a Heidi Swapp stencil. I really love that Big Hello die from Simon Says Stamps. Here it is:

For the background I used Versa Magic Chalk Inks: Pink Grapefruit, Mango and Key Lime. I used some pink paper from my stash and cut the hello out twice, stacking them before inlaying the word. I also used a Memory Box Hearts & Stars die to cut 3 yellow hearts which I coated with CTMH'S Liquid Glass to make them shine. It's hard to see in the picture, but the 3rd heart is below the "h." Also, IRL the bottom portion of the panel is green - Key Lime. It looks yellowish here. I mounted everything on a gorgeous cantaloupe colored card base given to me by a friend. I love the sunny colors.

I'm entering these challenges:  Virginia's View Challenge #5 - Use a Die;  Moxie Fab World - Wonderful Words Challenge; Sister Act Card Challenge #64- Anything Goes; Brown Sugar Card Challenge #101 - Anything Goes.

I hope you had a fun filled 4th of July. Now enjoy the rest of your weekend :)

For My Husband

We've been having wonderful HOT weather here, and I love it. The only thing I don't like about the hot weather is that my hubby will freeze me out using the air conditioning - seriously! Oh, well... On to my card ... A while back, I saw a card on Virginia Lu's blog using a super cute Paper Smooches set, My Guy. I had to buy it - I knew it would be perfect for cards for the men in my life, mainly my husband and grandson.  (I also have a nephew who golfs, but my sons do not.) Thanks, Virginia, for enabling me - LOL!!

Please forgive the shadow, but I photo taking skills are not the best. Everything is from my stash. I fussy cut the golf flag/hole and ball. I colored the images with Sharpies. I just love that little golf cart!! I know I will use it a lot - for cards, tags and scrapbooking.

I'm entering these challenges:  Virginia's View Challenge #5 - Use a Die Cut; Crafty Hazel's Patterned Paper Challenge - July; and Paper Smooches Challenge - Anything Goes.

I hope you have a great day!

Get Well with My Cricut

Hi, there. I have a very CAS card I made for my line dance club to give to a male member. I used B is for Boy, a Cricut Lite cartridge. No stamping on the outside at all! I just needed a quick card and here it is:

Everything is from my stash. I'm entering these challenges:  Virginia's View Challenge #5 - Use a Die Cut; Crafty Hazelnut's Patterned Paper Challenge (July) - Anything Goes; and Fantabulous Cricut Challenge #217- Anything Goes.

613 Avenue Create #78 - Anything Goes

Hi, there! Our newest challenge at 613 Avenue Create is just plain old ANYTHING GOES with no twist. Be sure to join in the fun and post your latest project. We've also reached 600 followers - how cool is that! Thanks to you all for joining our challenge - have a great day crafting!

613 Avenue Create #77 - National Pink Day-Use Pink

Hi, people!  Today's challenge at 613 Avenue Create is to celebrate National Pink Day, June 23. So we are encouraging you to use pink in your project. Our sponsors are Bugagoo, Time for Tea Designs, HannahLynnArt and Lee's Digi Shop.  I used Time for Tea Designs' Spring Papers in Bright Pink. There are four colorful and fun papers. I used two:  Spring Flowers in Bright Pink and Spots Bright Pink .  Here's my card:

I used a cool technique that I've seen on the internet, but I actually learned from a friend. I used two-sided sticky paper, placing one sticky side down on a panel of card stock. I cut strips of the DP in various widths, and decided how I would place the strips on the panel to be adhered to my card front. (You can use scrap papers also.)  I left open spaces between the strips, and cut off the long edges of the DP after sticking them down.  Since the open spaces were sticky, once I had adhered the strips, I sprinkled pink glitter (Martha Stewart) on the open spaces. The glitter made stripes - how cool is that?!  I then took of the backing and adhered the second sticky side to my card base. To finish off my card, I used a Technique Tuesday die and shadow using scraps from my stash. I just love that "hugs." Finally, I glued down some sequins.

This is my first time ever using digital paper. I had a lot of fun with it and will be sure to use some again. If you've never done it, give it a try. Be sure to hop over to 613 Avenue Create to see our winners of the last challenge and to get some cool inspiration for this week's challenge. We love it when you use our twist!

I'm entering these challenges:  Crafty Hazelnuts Patterned Paper Challenge - Anything Goes (June); Sisters of Craft - Anything Goes (June); and Simon Says Wednesday Challenge - You Gotta Have Friends.  EDITED TO ADD:  Moxie Fab World - Wonderful Words Challenge.

Grad Card for Grandson

Hi, Friends, this is my second post for the day.  I'm posting the card I made for our grandson who is graduating from the 6th grade this week. I used his school colors of blue, yellow and white.

I used my new die from Die-namics - Heart Balloons. I love these heart balloons. The red stars are from a new Memory Box - Hearts & Stars. I used the stars because I thought the card needed a bit of a pop. (I saved the hearts for another card.) The splatter background made for a playful effect, suitable for an 11 year old boy. I created the background using Close to My Heart Diverse Backgrounds stamp, old but never used before. The balloons were stamped with Close to My Heart Who's Your Valentine Stamp. The sentiment is from Michael's Dollar Bin (purchased years ago). Inks are Close to My Heart, and all card stock is from my stash. I used baker's twine for the balloon string, first stiffening it with YES clue and forming the shapes (a neat trick I saw somewhere on the internet, but don't remember where). The balloons are popped up as is the splatter panel.

I discovered a new challenge The Cutting Edge.  They are having a launch party which includes a chance to be a guest designer.  My card is based  on the balloon card inspiration here - easy to tell!

I'm also entering these challenges:  Inkspirational Challenges #58 Clean and Simple (my second entry) and Sister Act Card Challenge #61 Anything Goes. And since I'm using NBUS (Never Been Used Schtuff - namely the die cuts and the splatter background stamp), I'm entering Darnell's NBUS Challenge for the second time.

I hope all the dads out there have a Happy Father's Day, by the way :)

613 Avenue Create #76-Option Subway Art

Hi, Friends! Today's challenge at 613 Avenue Create is Anything Goes with the option to Use Subway Art. We have three great sponsors:  Lacy Sunshine, Meljen's Designs and Inky Impressions. Our DT has lots of inspiration for you. Stop by and see last week's winners, then link up a project for this challenge. Happy Crafting to you!!

613 Avenue Create #75-Anything Goes/Best Friends' Day

Good morning! This week's challenge at 613 Avenue Create has the option of creating something for your best friend because today is Best Friend's Day!! Our sponsors are A Random Fan, Eureka and Vectoria Designs.

My best friend lives in California, and I have known her since I was in the 4th grade. Yes, we go WAY, WAY back - LOL!!  She's married to a great guy - he and my husband are good friends. Our children are cousins. We are auntie and uncle to each other's children and grandchildren. One of her sons and two of her granddaughters live not far from us here in Georgia, so we see them throughout the year. My best friend and I talk all the time, preferring talk to texts and e-mails (we're old school - LOL!) But we do text and e-mail pictures back and forth of the grand kids as any self-respecting grandparent would :)  Anyhoo, here's the card I made for her using Eureka's Sun Flower:

I colored two sun flowers with Distress Markers and Distress Ink. I stacked one on top of the other for depth and then used pop dots to attach the flower to the card base. It's hard to see in the picture, but the flower has a coating of clear Wink of Stella. The side border is a Martha Stewart sticker I got ages ago from Marshall's. The sentiment is a rub on from Close to My Heart that I've had for probably 6 or more years. The card stock is from my stash.

I'm entering these challenges:  Craftitude #66 - Pop it Up; Sister Act #60 - Anything Goes; Darnell's NBUS #1 - Anything Goes/Friendship Theme;  Inkspirational Challenges #58 - Clean and Simple; and Time Out Challenges #7 - Summer/Flowers.

I hope you have a great week!

Sports Card

Today I have a grandson card. I made this a while back because his soccer team won their division, but I'm just now posting.  CAS with love for our grandson.

I may enter some challenges, but for now this is it. Have a great day!

613 Avenue Create #74-Option Create Something for Yourself!

Hello, friends! On this Sunday, our Anything Goes Challenge at 613 Avenue Create is to Create Something for Yourself. We crafters are always making something for someone else, so now we're asking that, should you chose, you think of yourself and make something nice.

Hop over to the blog, see who won the last challenge, and get some wonderful inspiration from the DT. Enjoy and have fun!!

Encouragement

Hello, Friends! Today I have a card that I made for my sister-in-law to encourage her as she deals with health issues.  I found this Stampabilities sentiment at Hobby Lobby and knew I had to buy it. I can see myself using it a lot.

I used Distress Markers (Worn Lipstick, Peeled Paint and Mustard Seed) for the background, spraying them with water after "scribbling" across the watercolor paper. I heat dried the paper and then embossed the sentiment in white. The DPs are from Close to My Heart. (I don't know the names, but I do know they are old and retired - LOL!) The cardstock base is from my stash as are the flowers. A simple card, easy to create, and my sister-in-law liked it.

I'm entering these challenges:  Word Art Wednesday #134 - Anything Goes; Simon Says Wednesday Challenge - Anything Goes; Inky Impressions #161 - Anything Goes; and 4 Crafty Chicks #196 - Anything Goes.

I hope you get in some crafty time today!

613 Avenue Create #73-Anything Goes/Option Add Metal

Good morning! It's a beautiful day here in Georgia, and I'm happy that the sun is out. I'm looking forward to a happy day. You can get some happy by visiting 613 Avenue Create. Our newest Anything Goes Challenge has the fun option of adding metal.  Our sponsors are Lacy Sunshine and Creative Bug. I used a pre-colored digi from Creative, Cuddle Buns Gets Squished.

Aren't the bunnies adorable?  I cut the image using a Nesties and added blue ink and green ink around the top and bottom before removing the cut from the Nestie.  The yellow polka dot background was created by inking through a Heidi Swapp stencil. The ink is dark in some areas and light in others. I like that effect. The three hearts are popped up as is the main image. The bunnies' noses, ears and feet have a bit of sparkle thanks to my clear Wink of Stella pen. I added three metal brads around the die. I will add a sentiment later when I decide who will receive my card.

I'm entering a few challenges:  Less Is More #173 - Use a Die Cut; Brown Sugar Challenge #95-Anything Goes;  Die Cut Diva's Challenge Blog (May)-Use at Least One Embellishment (and a Die Cut or Embossing Folder), and Creative Bug on the Loose #2 - Anything Goes.

I hope you have a wonderful day!

613 Avenue Create #72-Anything Goes-Option Add 3 Shapes from List

I'm a day late with my post. Sorry, but my weekend was crazy. Our new AG challenge at 613 Avenue Create has the option of incorporating 3 of the following shapes to your design:

heart
arrow
star
octagon
triangle
circle
oval
square
rectangle 

Be sure to pop over and join in the fun!!

Quick Thinking of You Card

Hi, friends!  Today I'm posting a quick card I made using only patterned paper, bling, and a punch. Quick, simple, and easy!  Sometimes you just have to get the card made and in the mail ASAP :)

The card base is from my stash. The DP is CTMH.  I put a rhinestone in the flower center, punched out the CTMH sentiment, inked the edge, popped it up and, bam!  Done!

I'm entering these challenges:  Sister Act Card Challenge #57 - Anything Goes; Crafty Hazelnut's Patterned Paper Challenge (May); and Flat Friend Challenge #20 - Dies and/or Punches.

613 Avenue Create #71-Anything w/ Twist Make Your Own Challenge

Hi, friends!  First, let me say Happy Mother's Day to all mothers. I hope you have a blessed day.
This week's challenge at 613 Avenue Create has the twist of Create Your Own Challenge using this chart:

   

Here's my card using Sassy Studio's Holiday Wreath:

I'm slowly but surely getting some holiday cards made - yea for me!! Here's the formula I used: Column 1: Image & Sentiment; Column 2: Die Cut; Column 3: Stickles; Column 4: Sequins; Column 5: Twine.

I colored the image using colored pencils and baby oil (a substitute for Gamsol - read about it on the internet). I cut out the image using an oval Nesties.  I added Christmas Red Stickles for the berries, and paper pieced the ribbon.  The die is popped up on the DP.  I then added Baker's Twine and sequins after stamping the small sentiment inside the wreath.

I'm entering these challenges:  Challenges 4 Everybody #41 - Anything Goes; The Glory of Christmas Challenge #33 - Anything Goes; and Crafty Hazel Nut's Christmas Challenge #176 - Let it Shine.

We want to see your creativity at 613 Avenue Create - be sure to stop by!

613 Avenue Create #70-Anything Goes/Twist: Ba Da Bling!!

Today's Anything Goes challenge at 613 Avenue Create has the option of "Ba Da Bling!" meaning we want to see bling on your projects. Everyone loves bling, right? So have some fun and bling it up :) Check out the DT's inspiration and last week's winners. Have fun!

613 Avenue Create #69 - Anything Goes. Period!!

Hi, there, friends! Our challenge at 613 Avenue Create this week is Anything Goes with no twist - how's that for a change? Our sponsors are A Day for Daisies and Bugaboo Digi Stamps.  I used ADFD Freehand Butterfly #1 - here's my card:

I put the design on my butterfly by using a stencil- how cool is that! I used a Heidi Swapp flower stencil, sponging Distress Ink for the pattern, and dusting the butterfly with chalk. The DPs are scraps. I mounted the fussy cut butterfly on Nesties. I don't know who made the border punch that I used. It's hard to see, but I added a bit of sparkle with Wink of Stella and a couple of sequins. I'll add a sentiment when I decide what occasion I'll use the card for.

I'm entering these challenges:  Crafting from the Heart #16-Anything Goes; Pixie's Snippets Playground #122; Crafty Cardmakers and More #115-It's a Bug's Life; Butterfly Challenge #6-Glamorous; and Simon Says Wednesday Challenge - Clean and Simple.

Thanks so much for stopping by!