Category: Blog

I really miss travelling

I have cancelled two planned trips since Covid-19 started, which breaks my heart because I love to travel. It doesn’t matter if it’s a weekend getaway or a trip to a foreign country. I love to be able to say “have bag will travel” and am fortunate enough to be be able to do that. Since travelling isn’t really an option right now, I can only dream until things improve. Now that being said, after seeing the new Beautiful World Bundle along with the coordinating Specialty Designer Series Paper, I decided to create this framed sampler depicting travel destinations. How could I not? For now, it will remind me of better days to come.

I love the versatility of this Bundle set and all the possibilities that allow us to create. I used some older retired stamps from the recent Sale-A-Bration sale as well which made it so easy to create. Bundles are a great way to bring it all together plus you save 10% when you purchase a bundle instead of purchasing items separately. If you would like to explore and see all the products available for cards, scrap books, gift boxes etc, just Click here to visit my online store and you too can create something beautiful.

  • Beautiful World Bundle (#154091)
  • World of Good Specialty Designer Series paper (#153491)

I recently posted this card I made for a monthly card swap I participate in. It’s a great way to stay in touch with people while sharing design ideas. This card was also made using the Beautiful World Bundle.

Here is another bundle sample which makes beautiful cards. Blossoms in Bloom (#154123) is another favourite bundle of mine. With both the stamps and dies you can make gorgeous cards in any colour combination, as shown below.

With Bonus days happening through throughout July and ending August 3rd, now is a great time to purchase a bundle and earn valuable coupons. If you are unfamiliar with this promotion, for every $60 CAD you spend by Aug 3, 2020, (before shipping and tax) your will earn a $6 Bonus Days coupon code which you can use anytime between August 4-31, 2020 for additional products. This is a win-win scenario. Click here to find out more.

Life’s a Beautiful Journey

We all need to tell the people in our lives that they matter and what better way than to give or send them a card. After all, as the card says “Life’s a Beautiful Journey” and they are a part of that journey. I will be sending these out later today. I only wish I had some Very Vanilla envelopes but sadly I am out of them at the moment.

The card base is made from Early Espresso and the matting is Crumb Cake. I stamped a light image from the Very Versailles stamp set, onto a piece of Very Vanilla card stock with some scripty writing so it looks like an old document. I then embossed it, using the Old World 3D embossing folder to give it a crumbled paper look.  I lightly used a sponge dauber in crumb cake to highlight the texture and give it an aged look.  I then tore around the edges  to make it look even older, I sponged Early Espresso around the edges as well to enhance it.  I am pretty pleased with how it turned out.  

The card base is made from Early Espresso and the matting is Crumb Cake. I stamped a light image from the Very Versailles stamp set, onto a piece of Very Vanilla card stock with some scripty writing so it looks like an old document. I then embossed it, using the Old World 3D embossing folder to give it a crumbled paper look.  I lightly used a sponge dauber in crumb cake to highlight the texture and give it an aged look.  I then tore around the edges  to make it look even older, I sponged Early Espresso around the edges as well to enhance it.  I am pretty pleased with how it turned out.  

If you would like to purchase any of these products to create your own beautiful cards, click here

Product Used

  • Early Espresso Cardstock
  • Crumb Cake Cardstock
  • Very Vanilla Cardstock
  • World of Good DSP
  • Beautiful World Cling Stamp
  • World Map Dies
  • Old World Paper 3D Embossing folder
  • Very Versailles Cling Stamp
  • Early Espresso Ink Pad
  • Early Espresso Faux Saede trim
  • Crumb Cake Ink Pad
  • Gold Emboss Powder
  • Heat Tool
  • Mini Glue Dots
  • Stampin’ Seal
  • Stampin’ Dimensionals

Not sure where to Start?

Do you get overwhelmed with all the possibilities of things to make and then end up making nothing? No matter your crafting comfort level, these kits are for you.

The “Gorgeous Posies” Project Kit is a wonderful kit for all levels of crafters. This kit makes 16 cards: 4 each of 4 different designs. Once all your cards are completed, you can store them in it’s own designer box (included) until you are ready to use them.

To purchase this kit, Click here to visit my online store and don’t forget to use the June host code 4GVPX3M6

The designer box and greeting cards would also make a wonderful gift for someone special.

Add the Gorgeous Posies Cling Stamp (item number #153289) to complete your kit, or you can use your own stamps to suit your specific needs.

If you are looking for projects that are quick to put together by yourself or with a family member, these project kits are ideal for you. All kits are measured, cut and colour coordinated to make beautiful cards. Click here to visit my online store and see all the possibilities.

Simply Citrus Card Kit
Looking Up Card Kit

Father’s Day is coming

Father’s Day is coming so I made this masculine card for the men in our lives. It is a generic card so it could be used as a Father’s Day Card, a birthday card, or even a retirement card. Whatever special day that is going on in their lives.

The card base is made with Night of Navy Card stock. The DSP is from the Sale-A-Bration “County Club Designer Series Paper”. I also used the stamp set “Well Dressed” and stamped the hat on the DSP before fuzzy cutting it out. The Sentiment comes from the Peaceful Moments stamp set. I love how all the stamp sets work so well together.

The Measurements are as follows;

  1. Night of Navy card base, 5 1/2 x 11″, scored at 4 1/4″ then folded
  2. DSP, 5 1/4″ x 4″
  3. Vellum, 4″ x 3″
  4. Night of Navy Mat, 2 1/2″ x 3″
  5. Whisper White, 2 1/4 x 2 3/4″

Tick! tock! Time is running out. Select products from the January–June 2020 Mini Catalog and 2019–2020 Annual Catalog are retiring, as of June 2nd. This is the last chance for you to stock up! Don’t forget to check out the Clearance Rack as well. They have some amazing deals.

To shop online click here

I am really excited for the new annual catalogue to go live on June 3rd with the introduction of new colours, new stamp sets, punches and some wonderful new Designer Series paper.

If you would like to receive a copy of the new catalogue, please contact me so I can arrange to get you a catalogue.

Better yet, join my team of Canadian Stampers. Whether you are in the same city as me or spread across Canada, my team, “Canadian Stampers” are a group of wonderful people who I support 100% of the time.

There are some wonderful benefits to becoming a demonstrator, whether you craft as a hobby or want to start a a part time or even a full time business.

  1. VIP Access:  Be the first to see catalogues and order new product!
  2. 20% discount on all purchases and depending on how much you sell (or buy!) each month that discount can go up 
  3. Minimum of 20% income on your sales
  4. Exclusive website full of stamping samples
  5. Opportunities to attend conventions, regional events, and demonstrator get togethers. You will receive so much support.
  6. Opportunity to earn cash bonuses, product bonuses, and incentive trips

FREE May Card Kit

I really miss not being able to get together with everyone during our regular monthly card classes. I miss the socializing and the laughter we share while we make cards. So I decided to offer a solution.

Each month, you will be able to earn a FREE Card Kit consisting of 6 cards (2 of each design) which you can make at your leisure. Each monthly card kit is only available until the end of the current month.

This month I am featuring the Ornate Thanks Bundle which is just a part of the whole Ornate Garden Suite. I love the die cuts in this bundle. They cut beautifully and as you can see they are beautiful.

Next month, I will offer a different kit and feature a different stamp set. This is a great way for you to craft with friends or family while putting together your FREE kit. Plus you will always have cards on hand to suit any occasion. No more scrambling at the last minute to find a perfect card.

To earn your FREE Card Kit

  1. Place a minimum $50.00 order (before tax/shipping) on my Online Store at Stampin’ Up! and you will automatically be shipped the monthly kit.
  2. Use the MAY Host Code P3ADAX96 when placing your order. Any orders not using the Host code will not receive this kit so don’t forget.
  3. Place your oder before end of day on May 31, 2020

For orders over $200

Please DO NOT use the host code so you can earn Stampin’ Up! rewards (free products from Stampin’ Up!) You will still receive the free card kit from me.

So how easy is that?

HERE IS WHAT YOU WILL RECEIVE;

  • All the paper and embellishments required to make six cards (two cards each of three different designs). Envelopes will also be included
  • The paper will be cut, scored, punched and die cut for you
  • A PDF Tutorial with step by step instructions, pictures, all measurements and a complete supply list of the products used.

YOU WILL NEED

Your own adhesive, ink and a stamp set so you can customize the card to suit any occasion. (As per Stampin’ Up! policy, I cannot send stamped images)

SHIPPING INFORMATION

  1. Your kits will be shipped no later that June 3, 2020. The kit will be mailed to the address used on your online order. Per Stampin’ Up! policy, kits can only be mailed within Canada
  2. June 3, 2020 you will receive an email from me that will include your PDF Tutorial with easy to follow step by step instructions. (File in a binder to refer back to over and over again)

Whatever happened to good manners?

In the world on electronics, it is so easy to forget common sense and general good manners.  We’ve all seen postings online that make us just scratch our heads and wonder about these people.

What we really need to do is step back a little to appreciate the people around us.  Whether it’s a family member, a work associate or your personal customers.

When was the last time you received an actual “Thank You” Card? You know, actual handwritten notes on paper and snail-mailed to you?  I will guess and say it’s been a long time or maybe never.   I know this is an old school thought process but when did good manners become out of date?

As an example: when you receive a fabulous gift, you say thank you, right?   But what if it was mailed to you?  Someone has taken the trouble to buy you a gift, wrap it, mail it (paying the postage) so you can receive it.  Is it too much to ask, to buy a stamp and send them a little note of appreciation?  I don’t think so.

Recently I sent a wedding gift by mail as I was not able to attend the wedding.  I didn’t hear a word back, nothing.  I  found out several weeks later, through the mother (I finally asked), that the gift was received. I never received anything back from the bride and groom, not even to acknowledge that the gift was received.   How appreciated do I feel now?  How likely is it I will spend a similar amount on the next gift I send them (if at all)

What about your customers, do you appreciate their business?  Have you ever told them that?  A simple card sent to say thank you tells them that they matter to you.   It is a class act and helps build relationships which builds loyalty.  If you are in any sort of sales environment, this goes a long way and what did it cost you, a card and a stamp? Keep them on hand so you are always ready.

Think of an experience when you went out of your way to help “get the job done” whether on a personal level or a business one.  You’ve spent  time and effort to help.  If your effort was never acknowledged or appreciated,  how likely is it that you will jump in to help the next time?  A simple thank you card makes you feel appreciated and we all need to know we are appreciated. It only takes a few minutes of your time.

I believe in sending thank you cards. I even make and sell my own cards. I personalize every card I make. You can see my cards online at http://www.ottawaartisans.com if you are interested.

So here are some simple pointers;

  • Send as soon as possible.  Keep cards/stamps on hand, so you don’t forget
  • Mention the gift/assistance/business you received 
  • Keep your message simple;  a line or two is all you need to say thank you
  • Style matters, casual for friends, more formal for business
  • It only takes a few minutes of your time.

What better time than to share the love?


With everyone staying home, it’s a great time to send a card and let people know you are thinking of them. This is especially true with seniors who would love receiving this beautiful card. It’s also a great Mother’s Day Card if you can’t seen them in person.

I made up this card using the Pressed Petals Designer Series Paper (DSP)which has so many beautiful designs so it makes card making easy. This is a perfect card for a beginner to try. I love the Deep blue flowers which are so real looking. To See this paper online, click here.

The card itself is 4 1/4 x 11″ the folded in half at 5 1/2′. The matting is 4 x 5 1/4″ and the flowered DSP is just a smidgen smaller by about 1/8″ all around.

I used the Pretty Label Punch twice, once in the Night of Navy Cardstock and again with Very Vanilla cardstock. I then stamped the sentiment from the Inspiring Iris stamp set. I punched a small hole at one end and threaded the ribbon through both labels and adhered it to the front of the card.

Time to use up those paper scraps

I would bet money that anyone who crafts, regardless of the medium, has a bag or box of scraps that tend to pile up and sit unused. Well I am no different so today I decided to delve into that scrap pile and see what I can do with some of the scraps.

This is the second card I created.

I created two beautiful cards that are perfect to send to someone who is at home, just to let them know you are thinking of them. These cards were very easy to make and perfect for a beginner. This card is also a perfect card for Mother’s Day.

To create the card, I made the card base from Rococo Rose card stock (150882). I cut the 8 1/2 x 11 card stock in half at 5 1/2″ then scored them both at 4 1/4 to create the fold. I then used my bone folder (102300) to crease the fold line. This allows me to make two cards. All supplies used are online, just click here to browse my online store.

The Designer series paper is from the Pressed Petals collection (149500) and each panel was cut at 1 1/4″ by 4″ then glued to the front of the card using Tom Bow Glue (Multipurpose glue (110755) I used the die cut from the Painted Label dies (151605) to cut out the circle swirls behind the sentiment and used my 2″ punch (133782) to cut out two circles in Very Vanilla card stock (101650) . The sentiment came from the Under My Umbrella stamp set (151518)and I stamped “Life’s Showers bring love’s flowers” then used my sponge dauber (133773) to add a little colour around the edge of the sentiment before adhering the sentiment to the swirl. I then put a little Petal Pink Metallic edged ribbon (151194) to the back of the swirl before using dimensional (104430) to adhere it to the card. The inside have a blank piece of cardstock so you can write your own special greeting an taylor the card to suit any occasion. To see all these supplies online click here

Staying Home to Craft

Hi Everyone,

Well with my card classes cancelled for the time being, and lot’s of time spent at home, what’s a girl to do? Crafting of course.

Ok, well I would be crafting anyways but now I have more time, so decided to try something new. I made up this gift card box (or book) which holds five cards and envelopes to match up with the paper. How cute is that?

I am pretty pleased with how it turned out and it would make a great gift for someone who cannot get out and about. Add some stamps and they are all set. I left the inside of the cards blank so they can be tailored to suit any occasion.

With Sale-a-bration ending March 31st, don’t forget to take advantage and earn the free items with every $60.00 purchase while supplies last. Just click on the link below to shop and earn your freebies.

https://www.stampinup.com/ECWeb/default.aspx?culture=en-us&dbwsdemoid=2197642

Poppies for all occasions

I love the Poppy stamps and the designer Series paper is beautiful. I made up this card using Whisper White card stock as a base with Poppy Parade matting and the DSP on top. The DSP stands alone and makes for a beautiful card front. After stamping the sentiment and a few roses I punched out the label and adhered it to the front of the card. This is so simple to make and yet is just pops.

With Sale-a-Bration going on, it’s the perfect time to stock up on crafting supplies. With every $60.00 purchase you make, you can choose a free item from the Sale-a-Bration Brochure. New items will be available on March 4th for an even bigger selection of freebies to choose from.

Want to earn even bigger savings? Becoming a demonstrator will allow you to earn 20% discount on all future purchases. One of the best times to join is during Sale-A-Bration, when you get special perks that you won’t see any other time of year. Sign up between now and March 31, and you will not only receive your regular starter kit, but you will also get the mini paper cutter, 6 X 6 designer series paper sampler, and your choice of a stamp set.

click on the link to check it out.

https://www.stampinup.com/ECWeb/default.aspx?culture=en-us&dbwsdemoid=2197642