Distinctive Touches

Swirly Spring Blog Hop

Welcome to the "Friends of True's - Swirly Spring" BLOG HOP!

If you are here from Dina's blog, you are in the right place. If you just happened onto mine you will want to head back to True's blog where it all starts.

There will be a prize package donated by Inky Antics that includes True's entire, newly released, Swirly Spring stamp line...

These images are SO cute and whimsical!  And the sentiments are the perfect way to send a special greeting.  Love them all! 

The minute I saw this collection I new I had to have the swirly birds set and I quickly got to work.  I made two different projects with the adorable budgie images...

The first one is this full-sized card that I made for an upcoming anniversary.  I absolutely love to make my own "patterned paper" with stamps and the images in this set were exactly right for this technique.  I stamped up the bird a number of times and colored it in to make a full sheet of "patterned paper".  Then I cut it out and added an embossed section of white paper to the bottom for the sentiment.  A pleated ribbon is a soft touch to pull it all together.

The second project was a set of tiny "You're So Tweet" cards... perfect for sending out a quick thank you or thinking of you message.  These were SO easy to make!  Just cut some white cardstock, stamp one of the bird images, color it up, add a sentiment and doodle a quick frame.  Layer it onto some colored cardstock for a quick card.  (I colored up a few extra birds and then cut them out and popped them on on the front to give it a bit more dimension.)

 

I had such a great time playing with this set and I love that I can make some quick and easy cards with it.  Perfect for all of us "on the go" gals!

Your next stop on the Swirly Spring Hop is Carisa Zglobicki.  Don't forget to leave a comment here before heading her way! 

And here is a list of all of the links in case you get lost along the way.

Trudy Sjolander

Allie Gower

Sean Fetterman

Lydia Fiedler

Leah Lucescu

Linda Lucas

Bev Gerard

Dina Kowal

Colleen Schaan

Carisa Zglobicki

Lisa Lara

Bonnie Garby

Suzanne Dean

Joe Rotella

Judy Rozema

Lori Craig

Trudy Sjolander

Make sure to leave a comment on every stop, to increase your chances of winning the prize package. One lucky commenter from a randomly picked blog will win all 6 stamp sets! The winner will be announced on True's Blog on Monday, March 11th.

Thanks for stopping in!

Copic Blog Hop Winner!

And the winner for my blog is...

 

 

Congratulations Diane G!  Please contact me with your snail mail so we can get your prize package out to you! 

Copic New Year Giveaway Hop!

Happy New Year from Copic!

There are so many new things happening in 2013 at Copic that we just can't hold back our excitement.

• In less than two weeks we will be kicking off our new Color & Ink Workshop at CHA. There's still time to register, but space is limited, so sign up now on the Copic Website HERE. This class is all about HANDS ON and HAVING FUN!
  

• This year at CHA we will be expanding our fabulous line of X-Press it adhesives. Stop by our booth (#2553) to see our new glue, glue markers, and double-sided adhesive sheets, along with all of our other fabulous rolls of double-sided tape and foam tape.

• We will be showcasing a lot of new marker sets, including our new 3pc. Sketch blending group sets. These are a great way for beginners to start their collection, with markers that go together beautifully.

• We are also scheduling locations for our Standard and Intermediate Certification classes for 2013.  Make sure to sign up on the Copic website HERE to find out when one opens near you!

To celebrate all the excitement, the education team and designers are having a fun blog hop and giving away a fun prize pack. Each prize pack will include an assortment of 3 markers from one of our Limited Edition 25th Anniversary sets (fine nib on one side, super brush on the other end), a roll of X-Press It 1/4in. high-tack tape, and a roll of our exclusive 1/4in. foam tape.


For a chance to win, leave a comment on THIS post by Friday, January 4th.  Then hop over to each of the other wonderful Copic instructors and designers. Each blog will give away their own prize, so you have 8 chances to win!! Note: Due to shipping restrictions, contest is only open to residents of US and Canada.  (Commenting is now closed... thank you to all who visited!)

Marianne Walker 
Debbie Olson 
Sharon Harnist
Sherrie Siemens
Cindy Lawrence
Michele Boyer 
Lori Craig
Colleen Schaan


Good Luck and happy hopping!

Have a colorful 2013!

Paint the Town Red Winner!!!

Ohhhh, I'm a day late on posting this... I've headed out to Houston yesterday to teach my very last Copic Certification classes this weekend.  Today's class was so much fun and I can't wait to get inky with them tomorrow in the Intermediate! 

One of the colors we talk about in our Intermediate class is RED!  And what better way to transition into the topic of today's post!  LOL

Congratulations Beth Greco!!! You are the winner of my Paint the Town Red (R29) Copic shirt! 

Please email me at colleen.schaan@gmail.com and let me know what size shirt you want and your mailing address!  (They run fairly true to size but may shrink with washing.)

Winner.... Copic Coloring Guide Level 3: People

Thank you ALL for the sweet comments and wonderful kudos on our newest book!  We are so super excited that it is being so well received. 

I finally have a break in my travel and want to announce the winner from my "Favorites Hop" from last week.

And the winner is....

 

EMBOSSING QUEEN!!! 

Embossing Queen, please email me at colleen.schaan@gmail.com and give me your snail mail addy so I can mail you your signed copy of the book!!!

Coloring the Town Red! -

Christmas is coming... are YOU ready?  

To prepare for the upcoming holiday, we suggest you stock up on your red markers (you know, for all of those St. Nick images you will be coloring up)!

Already have all the reds? Then why not paint the town R29 in our new T-shirt? 

 
 Today we’re giving you a chance to win your very own Copic t-shirt!

Leave a comment on this post and you are entered to win your very own “Paint the town R29” shirt.

(My commenting will be closed at midnight on Wednesday, October 31st and I’ll post the winner on Thursday!)

Please Note: Contest is only open to US and Canada residents.

You have lots of chances to win! 

Here's the Copic team showing off the hottest fashion at our team meeting!!!

(Back row: Sherrie, Lori, Debbie, Cindy, Nancy Front row: Colleen, Marianne)

Check out each of their blogs, leave some love, and then check back to see if you’ve won.

Colleen Schaan   
Debbie Olson  
Lori Craig  
Sherrie Siemens  
Cindy Lawrence 
Sharon Harnist 
Michele Boyer  
Marianne Walker 

Can’t wait to win?

Get your Copic gear HERE... limited apparel only available on the Copic web site.

Good Luck and Happy Hopping!

Copic Coloring Guide Level 3: People!!!

Good morning and welcome to a very special blog hop! 

I am excited to announce the newest book in our coloring series...

Copic Coloring Guide Level 3: People

Marianne Walker and I have partnered up again with the team at Annie’s and some of the most talented artists and designers in the industry to bring you another quality publication packed full of techniques, theory, tutorials, and inspiration. 

The 64-page book is the next step in the Coloring Guide series (Click here for Book 1 and Book 2), offering information and educational material for crafters of all skill levels.

From the how and why behind picking colors and coloring skin and the tips and techniques for coloring hair to the helpful hints on how to create realistic looking clothing and fabric, this book presents information in an easy-to-follow format.

An included CD contains all of the hand-drawn images used in the tutorial section of the book, along with the assembly instructions for all of the projects, and a number of blank reference charts.

(*Note - the images used in the designer projects are sold by manufacturers and NOT included on the disk)

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Each participating designer is hopping today to give you a peak at their favorite project from the book - and a chance to WIN your own autographed copy!

Since everyone else was sharing... I figured I would too.  Here's my favorite project that I've got included in the book:

I just love the way the fabric folds and wrinkles turned out! 

(Image by Sweet Pea Stamps © Meredith Dillman)


To help kick off the celebration of our new book... please visit each designer listed below and comment on their blog for a chance to win an autographed copy!  Each designer will pick their own deadline and winner!

(My commenting will be closed at midnight on Friday, October 26th.)

Jane Allen
Melissa Andrew
Michele Boyer
Jennifer Dove
Beate Johns 
Sharon Harnist 
Melanie Holtz 
Michelle Houghton 
Debbie Olson 
Claudia Rosa 
Colleen Schaan 
Marianne Walker 

Can't wait for your copy?
Copic Coloring Guide Level 3: People is now available at many stamping and scrapbooking stores. Visit your local store today and ask about availability.  It is also sold through the Annie’s catalog, accessible on line at Annie's.

Thanks for stopping in... have a colorful weekend!

How to Add Pattern - SOG

Today's the day... I'm the featured poster over at The Odd Girl blog...

Head on over and check out my tutorial for "How to Add Patterns" to clothing... and see just how I created cute Kaylee's wardrobe!

*Supply list posted on Kristy's blog

Oh, and there just might be something in it for YOU too! 

31 Days with Some Odd Girl!

Here is your own personal invite to Kristy's 31 days of how-tos, giveaways & tutorials! 

My friend Kristy (owner and illustrator of Some Odd Girl stamps) is having a birthday this month... and she wants to celebrate BIG... with presents for all of YOU! 

Join her (and a variety of other talented artists) each day this month on her blog for a featured tutorial, a great "how to" and even some amazing giveaways! 

Featured guests include...

Leah Farquharson 
Aimee Maddern 
Cassie Box from Paper Issues  
Diana Fisher 
Alyce Keegan 
Elaine Hughes 
Colleen Schaan (That's right... who's up for some coloring fun and possibly a great gift?)
Created from Color
Carisa Zglobicki for Designed to Color 
Sabrina Alery 
Zoe for Make it Crafty 
Melissa Andrew 
Sammi Betbeder
Angelica Suarez 
Krista Smith 
Marilyn Perez 
Michelle Hernandez 
Denise Lynn for Whimsey Stamps 
Rachael Windemuller for Pins and Needles 
Rusty from Oozak.com 
Audrey Yeager 

There will be a post on Kristy's blog every day this month... so make sure to stop in there EVERY DAY for something special!  (Starting today... hint hint...)

Thanks for stopping in!

New and Improved!

Welcome to the NEW and IMPROVED Distinctive Touches! 

I'm so excited to reveal my new design!

I figured after 5 years it was time to update the look and reorganize my blog... so after doing a bunch of research, I hired Nicole from The Pixel Boutique to help create my new page.  I have to say... She was SO easy to work with - she was timely and professional and had a great vision for my ideas.  I highly recommend her if you have ANY type of blog or web page design needs. 

I'm pretty pumped about the new look because I had a hand in creating it.  Did you notice "me" in the banner? 

 

Yup - I drew it! It's a self portrait!!!

 

I've been drawing similar images for years (started when I was young by drawing Precious Moments style characters...) and I figured it was time to share a bit of that hobby with my loyal readers.  Of course, I'm holding my Copics and getting colorful! (No, I don't have any intention to draw for profit or start a stamp company! LOL)

There are a bunch of other special little touches that will make it easier to navigate, find important information, link to other resources, and keep in touch. 

To celebrate the new look and changes, I'm giving away PREZZIES! 

I've put together 3 surprise packs of goodies that I will give away to three of my readers.  All three are different and may include: stamps, inks, publications and/or mini albums.   

To win, please subscribe (if you aren't already) and leave a comment on THIS post telling me what coloring tutorial you would like to see me share here on my blog. 

Comments will be closed at midnight on Sunday, Sept. 2, 2012 and I will announce winners on Monday!

Thanks for stopping by - come back tomorrow for a "challenging" blog hop!

 

At the Movies!

Lights... Camera... Action!

Two great companies have paired up and are super excited to be bringing you a combined Hollywood Release!

Simply Betty Stamps has a range of characters from Betty Monroe to Action Chris the movie director,  while Make It Crafty has a slew of background scenes perfect to mix and match with the fabulous characters!!

Today and Tomorrow (June 1st & 2nd) the design teams will inspire you by showcasing fabulous projects using the new images.

The magic continues on June 3rd when we bring you a fun guessing game...Guess That Movie!

Will you be able to guess which movie each project portrays??  (Don't worry - we will be giving you some clues along the way!)

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During college, I spent one summer working in a movie theater and my project brought back memories... the creaky maroon seats, the floor sticky with soda, the sound of popcorn crunching! My inspirational project combines Make It Crafty's "Watching Movies" background (merged two together flipping one) with Simply Betty's "At the Movies Jude". I colored the image with Copics (listed below) and then cut out Jude and popped her up on foam tape to really be sitting front and center.  I'm guessing she's watching a comedy... maybe Bridesmaids? 

Copics Used:
Skin - E00/E21/E33/BV00
Hair - Y21/Y26/E23/E57/E29
Shirt - G21/G24/G28
Jeans - B91/B93/B95/B97
Glasses - C5/W5/C9
Cup - B12/B24/B29
Popcorn - Y02/YR31
Seats - R22/R08/R56/R37/R89
Arm Rests - W00/W1/W3/W5/W7/N10

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Want to win images from the new release?  Just hop along with the designers today and tomorrow and leave a comment on each post.  There will be FOUR winners each day receiving a surprise character with matching background digi stamps.

Today's hoppers are:

Barbara
Colleen (you are here!)
Betty
Cindi
Viv
Alison
Jenn D
Suzi
Lelia
Carole

And don't forget about the Guess That Movie challenge!  On June 3rd, guess 6 out of the 12 movies portrayed during the hop and you will have a chance to win one of the following:

Grand Prize

A DVD Movie of your choice PLUS the whole collection of MiC & SBS digi stamp Hollywood release images (WOW)

Second Prize
The whole collection of MiC & SBS digi stamp Hollywood release!

Can't wait?!!
We know some of you just can't wait, so both Betty and Zoe are offering you 25% off their Hollywood collections between June 1st and June 3rd!

Click Here for Simply Betty Stamps & Click Here for Make it Crafty!

We hope you have lots of fun "At the Movies" with us this weekend!

Whimsy Stamps May Release Day #7 - Guest Designer!

Hello and welcome to Day 7 of our May Rubber & Die Release Showcase!

On Wednesday (23 May) Whimsy Stamps released this month's new rubber designs and new Shapeology dies. From then until 29 May the Whimsy Stamps DT and Special Guests are showcasing these fabulous new goodies with a daily mini blog hop and I am part of today’s hop!

Each mini blog hop has a new release prize hidden somewhere along the way and you have 24hrs to enter each prize draw. To be entered into today's mini blog hop prize draw, be sure to leave a comment on ALL of the DT's posts listed below by 12.00PM EST tomorrow. All winners will be announced on the Whimsy blog on 30 May.

Today I want to share a whimsical card I made with the gorgeous new Summer Garden stamp set.

Isn't this a little girls dream?  I love all of the ribbons and flowers and floaty detail on this beautiful image - such a joy to color.  I left the layout pretty simple to keep the main focus on the image... using just a touch of patterned paper from Bazzill Basics and a bit of wired organdy ribbon.  Colored with Copics (body -  V20, main/tail - V20/V22, ribbons - B12/B14, pole and saddle Y02/Y26, flowers RV52/R89, leaves YG41/G24)

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To take a peek at today's fabulous new release creations, please click on the links below...

Colleen  (you are here)
Debbie
Iris
Ellie
Tammy Louise
Lori
Heidy
Bev
Deb
Erin

Remember that the entire new release is available to buy right now from the Whimsy Stamps store along with all your Whimsy favourites. Thanks for stopping by and don't forget to pop back to the Whimsy blog tomorrow for more new release creations!

Whimsy Stamps May Release Day #5 - Guest Designer!

Hello and welcome to Day 5 of our May Rubber & Die Release Showcase!

On Wednesday (23 May) Whimsy Stamps released this month's new rubber designs and new Shapeology dies. From then until 29 May the Whimsy Stamps DT and Special Guests are showcasing these fabulous new goodies with a daily mini blog hop and I am part of today’s hop!

Each mini blog hop has a new release prize hidden somewhere along the way and you have 24hrs to enter each prize draw.

To be entered into today's mini blog hop prize draw, be sure to leave a comment on ALL of the DT's posts listed below by 12.00PM EST tomorrow. All winners will be announced on the Whimsy blog on 30 May.

Today I'm sharing a fresh summer card that uses one of the sentiments from Summer Letter Oval Seals as the focal point.  I'ts a NCC... or co coloring card!  (Well, I did color the tiny flip-flops on the sentiment, but that doesn't really count. LOL)

I cut out the flip flops with my Sizzix eClips (seasonal cartridge).  I die cut a piece of Pinapple Bliss card stock with the Double Scallop Doily die (OMG...this is amazing) and another with the new Fun in the Sun Oval die.  I attached a circle of patterned paper (from the Buttercup collection from Lilybee Designs) and stamped the sentiment on white card and cut to fit the oval die shape.  I layered everything with foam tape and attached to a layer of Dragonfly card stock and then adhered it all to a Kachina card base. 

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To take a peek at today's fabulous new release creations, please click on the links below...

Colleen Schaan - Guest Designer (you are here)
Debbie Eastman
Iris Wiechmann
Deb Reutledge
Ann Vento
Michele Roos - Guest Designer

Remember that the entire new release is available to buy right now from the Whimsy Stamps store along with all your Whimsy favourites. Thanks for stopping by and don't forget to pop back to the Whimsy blog tomorrow for more new release creations!

Whimsy Stamps May Release Hope #3 - Guest Designer!

Hello and welcome to Day 3 of the May Rubber & Die Release Showcase!

On Wednesday (May 23) Whimsy Stamps released this month's new rubber designs and new Shapeology dies.  From then until May 29th, the Whimsy Stamps DT and Special Guests are showcasing these fabulous new goodies with a daily mini blog hop and I am part of today’s hop!

Each mini blog hop has a new release prize hidden somewhere along the way and you have 24hrs to enter each prize draw.

To be entered into today's mini blog hop prize draw, be sure to leave a comment on ALL of the DT's posts listed below by 12:00PM EST tomorrow.  All winners will be announced on the Whimsy blog on May 30th.

I'm hopping along today and I used this "road rad" Bike Kid image from the KennyK collection. 

I stamped the image with Tuxedo Black ink onto X-Press It Blending card and colored with the following Copic markers: skin - E51/E42/E43, jeans - B41/B45/0, shirt and bike - R22/R24/R29/R39, hat and gloves - N0/T1/T3/T4/T6/T8, glasses, grips and tires - C1/C3/C5/C7, ground T1/T3/T4

I then cut out the image with my Spellbinders circle die and matted it on black card stock.  I stamped the sentiment from the Retro Bottle Caps set, die cut with the bottle cap die and matted that in black also.  I attached the image and sentiment to red card stock. I then wrapped some black and white baker's twine around the layered pieces and attached them to a black card base. 

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To take a peek at today's fabulous new release creations, please click on the links below...

Beate Johns - Guest Designer
Colleen Schaan - Guest Designer (you are here)
Ellie Stover
Stephanne Maraver
Bev Rochester - Guest Designer
Erin Baily

Remember that the entire new release is available to buy right now from the Whimsy Stamps store along with all your Whimsy favourites. Thanks for stopping by and don't forget to pop back to the Whimsy blog tomorrow for more new release creations!

MIC Blog Candy!

Make It Crafty is celebrating a new inspiration blog, a new inspiration team (separate from the coloring team), and a new artist!  For the past month, the store inspiration team has been sharing beautiful samples, tips and tricks and amazing tutorials! 

It's been a huge success and there are more surprises and additions coming soon! 

To help celebrate, MIC is giving away a HUGE pile of goodies...

What’s in the collection of goodies??

6 MiC Rubber Stamps

3 packets of paper flowers

4 chipboard sets

12 Ciao Copic markers

WOW... everything you need to start being CRAFTY! 

Head on over to the MIC store inspiration blog HERE for more details and to enter!

 

Copic Coloring Guide Level 2:Nature Winner!!!!!

Wow... thanks to all my readers for the kind and supportive comments for our second book in the Copic Coloring Guide series!  You guys really know how to make a gal feel special! 

When I posted about the book, my question was How do you store your markers? And I got a lot of great responses.  Most of you separate your markers into color families...some of you just jumble them all together, and some of you like to separate them into color families and then by number. 

There's no right or wrong way to store your markers... whatever works best for YOU is great. 

Many people have asked me how I store my markers... and here's my story. (Yeah, I'm going to babble on a bit before announcing the winner!  LOL)

I used to store my markers in the plastic containers that Copic sells their sets in.  I had those plastic cases all lined up in a big plastic bin so I could carry all my markers around together.  I am a bit OCD... so I always had my markers organized by color family (starting with E's) and then within the color family, I had them by number... with the lowest numbers first.  That way when I wanted a blending group, they were all right next to each other. 

Then I found these awesome cubbies...  (Thanks to Sharon Harnist who posted about them on her blog)... and I got 4 of them.  Now I store all my markers by color family only.  The numbers are all jumbled together within the family.  Now, it took me a while to get used to that, not having them in blending group order, but once I started doing "alternative blending" like we teach in this second book, it made it much easier to break out of the "blending group" rut that I had been in.  Now I experiement a lot more and really get the use out of many more colors!  I love it.

Whatever way you decide to store them...  always have fun and challenge yourself to color, play, and try new things!

And with that... I want to congratulate the winner of the signed copy of the Copic Coloring Guide Level 2: Nature....

Jodi said...

He's too cute! I just love your work and you're a great teacher, I can't wait to get my hands on this new edition! Thanks!

 

Jodi, please email me your mailing addy and I'll get this book (and a little something extra) off to you! 

Thanks again for all of your support.  If you purchase the book, we would LOVE to hear what you think. 

Colorful Hugs to all!

colleen

Winners of Copic Foam Tape!

Congratulations to...

# 27 - KarenH said...

I have to laugh at this one. I store mine in ziploc bags by color.

 

#83 - Melissa said...

I store my Copics in trays for Copics and organize them in numerical order by color family starting with violets (my favorite color!) :D

 

And #77 - bevyb said...

I store my copics by color family, this way I can grab what I'm looking for quickly.
Thanks for a chance to win

Please email me at colleen.schaan@gmail.com with your mailing address and I'll get that tape right out to you!

Hugs!

colleen

Copic Coloring Guide... Level 2: Nature! Blog Hop

Good morning and welcome to a very special blog hop!  Marianne Walker and I are excited to be bringing you the second book in our coloring series... 

Copic Coloring Guide, Level 2: Nature!

And we are giving away several signed copies!!!

We've partnered up again with the team at Annie’s Attic and some of the most talented artists and designers in the industry to bring you a quality publication packed full of techniques, theory, tutorials, and inspiration.  The 64-page book is the next step in the Coloring Guide series, offering information and educational material for crafters of all skill levels.

From the introductory suggestions for creating a Copic journal and tips for working with digital images, to explanations of advanced blending techniques and detailed tutorials for coloring specific objects, the book presents useful information in an easy-to-follow format. 

A bonus CD comes with the book that contains all of the hand-drawn images used in the tutorial section of the book, along with the assembly instructions for all of the projects.

Speaking of projects...  each of our designers is hopping along with us today to give you a peak at their favorite project from the book - and a chance to WIN your own autographed copy! 

Here is one of my favorite projects from the book...  LOVE this little guy!!! 

(This guy is a great example from the "coloring metal" tutorial of the book... 
 just LOVE his little robotic body!)

 

Just visit each of the blogs listed below and make sure to leave some love.  Each designer will be drawing from the comments on their own blog for the winner of an autographed copy.  (Signed by Marianne, myself and that particular designer!)  Commenting is open until Friday, March 9th.  Winners will be announced on individual blogs.

Michele Boyer

Lori Craig

Jennifer Dove-Bonner

Sharon Harnist

Tammy Hershberger

Melanie Holtz

Michelle Houghton

Debbie Olson

Claudia Rosa

Colleen Schaan (you are here - don't forget to comment for a chance to win my copy!)

Marianne Walker

 

Can't wait for your copy? 

Copic Coloring Guide Level 2: Nature is now available at many stamping and scrapbooking stores. Visit your local store today and ask about availability.  It is also sold through the Annie’s Attic catalog, accessible online at AnniesAttic.com.

Thanks for stopping in today... make your world colorful!

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Supplies Used
Cardstock:     X-Press It Blending Card
                     Raven and Caribbean Beeze from Bazzill Basics 
Patterned:     Journey Explore (Authentique)
Stamps:         Beep Beep I Love You (Whiff of Joy)
                     Clearly Sentimental About You (MFT)
Ink:               Tuxedo Black (Tsukineko)
Copics:         B000/B00/C00/C1/C3/C5/C7/G29/R21/R32/R37/R89/YG21/YG23/YG63
Other:          Black multiliner, wide white ribbon, heart charm

 

 

 

Copic Design Team - New Memebers!

We on the Copic Paper crafting team would like to extend a very warm welcome to our newest members Cindy Lawrence and Michele Boyer!

These girls are both uber talented and have amazing ninja coloring skillz!  

You’ll want to be sure to visit their blogs for fabulous Copic inspiration and give them a warm welcome.  Oh, and if you do... you might just win one of these fabulous Copic All-Marker carrying cases (markers not included)!!  That's right, both Cindy and Michele are going to be drawing winners for the new Copic Marker Carrying Case... 

And that’s not all . . . each of the rest of the Copic team members also have giveaways posted on their blogs.  Here’s what the rest of us are giving away — a brand new product from Copic, introduced at the Craft and Hobby Association show a few weeks ago: X-Press It High Tack Foam Mounting Tape:

It’s available in 2mm thickness and either 1/2” wide or a unique 1/4” width.  This is a perfect dimensional foam tape for all of your projects. Here are some of the highlights:

• A very high tack/adhesive — means this stuff isn’t going anywhere. I’ve been using it for quite a while, and it holds so well.
• The white protective liner is very easy to peel off.

I LOVE< LOVE<LOVE this stuff... I've already gone through all of my "sample" rolls and am putting in an order for about... oh, 10 more rolls!  LOL

For your chance to WIN one roll each of the 1/4” and 1/2” tapes, just leave your answer to this question below in my comments for this post:

“How do you store your Copic markers - separated by number, color family, or all jumbled together?"

Leave your comment by Midnight - Monday, March 5 and I’ll have Random.org choose THREE lucky winners to be announced on Tuesday!  (Contest is open to winners in the US and Canada, as we only have distribution rights for those areas).

Be sure to visit each of these Copic design team members, for chances to win on their blogs, too.

Cindy Lawrence (carry case giveaway)
Michele Boyer (carry case giveaway)

Colleen Schaan < you are here
Debbie Olson
Lori Craig
Marianne Walker
Sherrie Siemens
Sharon Harnist

Happy Friday to you all and make it a colorful weekend!

My Favorite Product !

Today is my first official post over on the CardMaker blog!  I'm so excited to be a part of their blogging team and really am having fun with the topics they gave me to write about. 

Today's post is all about My Favorite Product.  I'll give you a hint... I used it on this card:

Head on over to the CardMaker Blog to find out just what My Favorite Product is...

Thanks for stopping by!

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Supplies used: 

X-Press It Blending Card
African Daisy, Bumble Bee and Midge cardstock from Bazzill Basics Paper
Cute Fish cling stamp set from Inkadinkado
Quite a Catch stamp set from Gina K. Designs.
Memento ink pad from Tsukineko LLC
Copic markers (YG000/YG03/YG05/YG09/Y000/Y02/Y04/Y18/E93/R24/B41)
Multiliner
Foam Tape
Circle Punch

 

Give me a ring... Alaine - Paper Testing Winner!

Hi all!  Thank you SO much for taking the time to visit my blog (I don't say that enough) and to leave me comments.  It really is a labor of love for me and I hope to continue to offer both inspiring artwork and educational posts. 

I told you that I'd be posting the winner from my "Copic Paper Compatibility Testing" that I did last week... and well, it's LATE Monday... but it's still Monday - so I'm good right?  LOL

The winner is... (drumroll please...)
35

Alaine said...

Yay - - I am so glad to see an expert try the Hammermill and like it. I LOVE it (and no, I do not work for the company HEE HEE). It is absolutely one of my faves, and for the price it is AWESOME. Thank you for the other options too... I especially like to see the options for different (not such bright white) colors.

So ALAINE... email me your snail mail addy and I'll get a sample pack of my very favorites sent off to you! 

_________________________________________________________

And for those who didn't win... a little eye candy for the day!  Here's a sneak into my latest addiction... wire wrapping and beading!  This is one of the first projects I made... a ring :) 

While it's pretty kronky and a bit scuffed up from my tools, I think it's not bad for a beginning attempt.  I certainly won't be making Tiffany's-style stuff anytime soon, but that's okay... it's still a fun diversion.

Have a wonderful day!  (Stop back on Wednesday for a fun product review!)

Card Positioning System - Another Chance to Win!

Hi all!  It's been HOT here in Atlanta for the last few days and I'm loving it...although I've been too busy to get outside and enjoy it much!  LOL

Today I want to share a quick peek at a card that I did for the Card Positioning System (CPS) sketch this week.  It's a GREAT sketch by Tami Mayberry (as always) and I had a BLAST creating this card. 

OMG...  I giggled every time I shaded one of those amazing muscles!

 

Image:         Strong Man (Mo Manning)
Sentiment:  Essential Messages (Hero Arts)
Paper:         Kachina, Turquoise Mist, Raven (Bazzill Basics)
                   X-Press It Blending Card (Imagination International Inc)
Copics:        Skin (E50/E21/E34/BV00)
                   Clothes (BG10/BG01/BV45/BG49)
                   Hair (Y04/Y35/YR24)
Other:         White Ribbon (colored Y35), White Buttons, Multiliner

 

The sponsors of CPS this week are DRG Publishing (Publishers of CardMaker Magazine and The Copic Coloring Guide) and Copic!!!  You know what that means...  colorful prizes!!! 

Head on over to the CPS blog and check out the sketch... and the prizes... and then get your mojo on! 

Good Luck!

 

Copic Coloring Guide - Winner!!!

Wow... thanks for all of the wonderful comments and the great support for our new book!  I can't wait to hear your reviews! 

I know you are all waiting to see who won the signed copy of The Copic Coloring Guide from my blog.  So without further ado, the winner is.....

Tanya Phillips!!!

Tanya commented,

"I don't own any Copics yet, but I do love the pinks. Seeing the book really makes me excited about them. Your card is colored beautifully!! Thanks so much for the inspiration!"

Well Tanya, there are lots of wonderful Copic pink combos!  Enjoy the book and your journey into the world of color. 

Please contact me at colleen.schaan@gmail.com with your mailing addy so I can get the book out to you right away!

 

For those of you who didn't win, don't worry, you can purchase the book HERE at Annie's Attic or at many local stamp and scrapbooking stores. 

For those of you who REALLY want a signed copy...  Marianne and I will be doing a book signing at the Super Show portion of CHA on Friday, July 22 from 9:30 am - 12:00 pm.  Bring your book or buy a copy there!

 

During the next few weeks, I'll be sharing some of the cards that didn't make it into the book.  It was SO difficult narrowing down the projects.  Here is one of my favorite cards that didn't make the cut. 

Thanks for stopping by!

 

The Copic Coloring Guide Designer Hop - Win a Signed Copy!

Welcome to the Copic Coloring Guide Blog Hop! 

We've got information about the new book, beautiful coloring, stunning card projects, and BLOG CANDY! 

 
The Copic Coloring Guide is the new book that I wrote with Marianne Walker.  It's the perfect resource for beginner and intermediate coloring artists alike.  The book contains information about the different styles of Copic markers, clearly explains the coloring/numbering system, details how to pick good blending groups, teaches a number of blending techniques through illustrated tutorials, and de-mystifies the colorless blender marker.  And that's just in the first 18 pages!  

The book also contains over 40 beautiful coloring card projects separated into beginner, intermediate and advanced skill level.  Each card project includes step-by-step coloring AND assembly instructions...  along with supply lists and manufacturer information to make recreating the projects simple and easy.
 
There are so many great projects in this book!  The designers who contributed are AMAZING and they were so much fun to work with.  I'd like to thank them ALL for sharing their talents with me and with our audience.  It was REALLY hard to pick my favorite project... it actually changes every time I page through the book, but today, here is MY favorite project...

 
I just LOVE all of the layers in this one... and the card itself is ALL about coloring!  LOL  The background is a digital image called Jungle and the little head-hunter guy is a rubber stamp called Chief Hambooli.  Both of the images and the sentiment are from Hambo Stamps.  It was so much fun to color this scene...and the instructions are included in the book!

 
The book is published by Annie's Attic, a division of DRG, also the publishers of the popular CardMaker magazine.  Click HERE for more information or to purchase the book (also available in PDF electronic download).  You can also find the book at many of your favorite local stamp and scrapbook stores.
 
How would you like to win an AUTOGRAPHED copy? 

Each of the contributing designers is hopping today and each one is giving away a copy of the book...  signed by both authors AND the designer.  To be eligible to win, please leave a comment on THIS post telling me what your FAVORITE Copic Color is/would be. (Each designer will be posting their own question, so make sure to read each post carefully and comment on each designer's blog for more chances to win!) 

Commenting for the Drawing is now Closed.  Thank You!

I will post my winner on Monday, July 11.  (So make sure to come back and check!)
 
Make sure to visit each of the designers blogs to see their favorite project from the book and for a chance to win your own autographed copy!
 
Jennie Black
Michele Boyer
Lori Craig
Sharon Harnist
Beate Johns
Debbie Olson
Colleen Schaan
Sherrie Siemens
Marianne Walker

 

And the Lucky Winner Is....

Thank you all for sharing your excitement about the new Shadows and Shading Book!

And congratulations to the winner from my blog... 

 

 

Donna, please contact me at colleen.schaan@gmail.com to claim your very own copy of Shadows and Shading!

 

Shading VS. Shadows - A Copic Blog Hop (with Candy!)

*This contest is over and commenting is now closed.

Today the Copic Regional Instructors in the US and Australia are doing a Blog Hop
and offering up  a GREAT prize!!!

We are excited to announce that Marianne Walker's new book called Shadows and Shading is now available for purchase.

This book is designed for beginner artists or paper crafters who want to make their coloring look more realistic, taking it up to the next level by adding shading and shadows.  The book does not teach how to draw, rather it teaches how add shadows and shading.

This wire-bound book comes with 4 clear printed guides to help you add shadows properly on your own work.

Here the linear light guide placed over an image to be colored. 

I was so excited to get a copy of the book and read it!  I love that it discusses the differences between shading and shadows and gives detailed information on how to add both to your work.  While I've got shading down pat, I have a tendency to struggle a bit with shadows.  In the past few months, I've stepped up my coloring game by adding harder shadows (no more land of diffused light for me)... and even adding some simple cast shadows. 

My light source is coming from the upper left... just in front of his shoulder. 
Check out that shadow cast by the clipboard!!! 
 (Ignore the actual shadow above his head... I cut him out and he curled up just a bit.)

 

I've still got a ways to go on the cast shadows thing, but with this book, I know I've got the resources to maser them!  In this sample... I wanted my doctor standing in a hallway with the light casting a shadow of him on the wall.  

While I've got the general shape right (I even followed it from the floor to the wall!)
I wasn't quite able to get the whole color/look right.  I probably shouldn't have used dots.
(If you squint, it doesn't look so bad LOL.)

_____________________________________________________

Image: My Favorite Things (World's Best Doctor)
Copic Colors Used: BG70/YG61/YG63/YG67/E00/E21/E34/BV00/C3/C5/C7/E11/E15/E57 ABS E21

_____________________________________________________

You see... it's all about practicing new skills, trying new things and not being afraid to make mistakes.  Give me a few months... I'll have shadows everywhere! 

If you'd like to learn along with me, leave a comment to be entered to win a copy of Marianne's new book.  And then go visit the other instructor's blogs for even more chances.  You have until Sunday night at midnight (EST) to comment on my blog.  I will be picking a winner on Monday!

Here's the list of blogs you can comment on for your chance to win.....

Copicmarker

Marianne Walker

Lori Craig

Sharon Harnist

Jenn Balcer

Jennie Black

Colleen Schaan

Bianca Mandity

Debbie Olson

Sherrie Siemens

For our friends down unda:

CopicOz (Australia)

Kathy Jones (Australia)

Mandi-Lee Klinger (Australia)

Virtual Party! Happy Birthday Gina K.

Welcome to the Virtual Birthday Party for Gina K!  Each participating blog features some part of the birthday experience.  Hop around to see the amazingly creative projects the team created to honor Gina on her special day!
 
 
When: TODAY!
Where: On the design team's blogs.  The party starts at Cammie's Blog and you just follow the links at the bottom of each post to continue to the next stop on the party tour!
Why: To wish Gina K a Happy Birthday. 

After you are finished hopping along, don't forget to head on over to  Gina's Blog and wish her a Happy Birthday.  TWO lucky commenters will receive a party favor---a FREE stamp set!
 
I'm in charge of the decorations for the party... and there's nothing like a colorful bunch of balloons to kick off the fun.  Here's my birthday wish:
 
Stamps: Floral Wreath
Paper: Pure Luxury White and Wine With Everything
Colored with Copic Markers (R81/R83/R85/R89/G40/YG63/YG67
Self Adhesive Pearls

 
Party On by stopping at the next blog on the tour......DEB!....

Wild Guesses!

Oh you folks make me giggle!

I never expected to be "expecting" after making my blog post on Tuesday... but apparently half of you think I am.  Sorry to say... that's NOT my good news.

The other half of you folks guessed right. (I'm sure you found the link helpful right?) 

I've been asked to write for CardMaker Magazine!!! 

Each issue will feature some sort of coloring tip... from ways to use your copics, to lighting issues to different mediums.  The first issue (March) is available for digital subscription right now... and the print copy hits news stands on January 18th and includes an article on how to use Copic markers to color skin tones.  The image here is a snippet from the card projects that is included - and that super adorable image is from Mo Manning. 

This is the very first time I've been published in a print magazine (I've done lots of on-line work)... so I'm giddy beyond belief and I'm thrilled to finally share the news with my peeps. 

So... if you ever have coloring questions or suggestions for the article... just let me know. 

Now for the drawing...  I put everyone's name who guessed right into a bag and drew out the winner.  Congratulations to...

Leigh McKee said,

Well, and this is very selfish on my part, but I hope that you have a regulare piece on Copic Coloring in the CardMaker magazine!

Thanks for the chance to win! 

Leigh, please contact me with your snail mail addy and I'll get your prize in the mail.

Thanks everyone for commenting and sharing in my good news.  I'm headed to Greenville, NC tomorrow for a Copic Demo at Uptown Art Supply.  If you are in the area, stop in and say hi!

Colorful Hugs

Can You Guess? For a prize!

Wow... you folks are EXCITED about the new Copic stuff coming out...  I don't blame you... I am too!  I can't WAIT to get my hands on the new colors!  And of course, that lighting book by Marianne is going to be HOT!  I've gotten some emails asking when and where these things will be available.  The new Ciao colors are available now at your local stores that carry Copic... and the rest of the new stuff will be available in March.  Just a few more months!

Okay... Those of you who have been following my blog or on facebook have heard snippets of conversations and know that I've been busy working on a few big projects - and I can finally share one of them with you...

Check out THIS page.  Do you see it??? 

Maybe this will help...

Guess what I've been up to??? 

I've got some stamps and a few Copic Original markers ready to be mailed off to someone...and it could be YOU.  Leave a comment on this post guessing what my news is.  If you are right, I'll put you in a drawing for the prize.  You have until midnight on Wednesday (12th) to comment.  I'll draw and post the winner on Thursday morning!

Good Luck!

The BEST New Stuff From Copic!

Today we have one more new product to share, and I think you'll all agree, this one is very exciting! 

12 New Sketch Colors
Have you needed more pinks? Been wishing for a purple that isn't pinkish? Wanted a brown that could be green or brown depending on what you match it with? The new 12 colors have been carefully picked and have been through months of color testing. Now Copic is pleased to announce 12 new colors of Sketch markers. Just when you thought 334 were not enough, now Copic is up to 346 fabulous colors. These begin shipping March 1st.

V20 Wisteria
V25 Pale Blackberry
RV55 Hollyhock
RV63 Begonia
RV66 Raspberry
YR30 Macadamia nut
YG61 Pale Moss
BG53 Ice Mint
BG70 Ocean Mist
E23 Hazelnut
E81 Ivory
E87 Fig

*Due to differences in displays, there may be a variation in color shown on your computer screen.

 

I would like to thank EVERYONE for taking the time to visit and comment... it's fun to see the excitement over the new products!  And now for the winners from my blog...

* Comment #35 -

Terre Munk said...

Just starting my collection, so a swatch book would come in handy. Thanks for the opportunity

* Comment #122 -

Carol Salter said...

This was my first blog hop. I've been resisting it...but now that I have Copics, I'm a push over to win anything Copic. ;-)

* Comment #218 -

Sue Coubrough said...

WOW! I would love to get my Copic colours more organized! Can't wait to get some of the new colours.

Congratulations!  Please send me your mailing address and I'll get your swatch books out to you!

Thanks for stopping in...  I'd love it if you came back tomorrow for my very own special announcements...  and possibly even more sweet treats! (wink)

And Yes... More New Stuff From Copic!

Copic has lots of new products coming out this year at CHA. To win a free 2011 Copic Color Swatchbook, leave a comment on Friday's post. Tomorrow we will draw the winners, so be sure that you've left a comment on each Copic Designer's blog.

2011 Copic Catalog
Unlike past years, the new Copic catalog is a showcase of artists and inspiration, as well as a place where you can find all your favorite Copic supplies. See gorgeous creations from a variety of artists, from papercrafting to pop-culture. The new catalog will be available in the booth at CHA, and will also be available for download soon from the Copic Website. You can find this in your local stores at the beginning of February.

 

Thanks for stopping in!  Come back tomorrow for the most COLORFUL news of all... and to see who wins the new color swatch books!!!

Even More New Stuff From Copic

Here's the second sneak peek of new products you can find in the Copic Booth at Winter CHA. Don't forget to leave a comment on yesterday's post to be entered for a special prize drawing.

Shadows & Shading: A Beginner's Guide to Lighting Placement, by Marianne Walker
Many of you who read the Copic blogs have been wanting more information about how to correctly place your shadows when coloring. Marianne's blog has lots of suggestions, but you have to dig through posts and print things out. Now, Marianne has taken the fundamentals of coloring with shadows and put them in this simple to use reference book. This book is for beginners and applies to anyone who colors, from papercrafters to artists. You do not need to know how to draw to add shadows like a professional artist! This guide easily steps you through how to correctly add shadows and make your coloring look more dimensional. The wire-bound book comes with 4 clear printed guides to help you add shadows properly on your own work, without all the frustration and guess-work. This book will be available in March, though you can get a sneak peek at CHA. If you want to attend a hands-on workshop that teaches these same concepts as they relate only to papercrafting, then register for the Intermediate Certification nearest you!

Click HERE for a list of current Standard and Intermediate Certification classes.

Make sure to come back tomorrow for another newsworthy sneak!

Who Doesn't Like Copic Candy???

Edited to Add...This contest is now closed.

The Winter Craft & Hobby Association (CHA) trade show is coming up and so we want to give you a sneak peek at what new things you can find in the Copic booth this year.  Each day we will reveal something new and exciting!  Check back for more new products from Copic all weekend long!

The first new product... isn't really new... it's more like an addition!

New Ciao 36 Colors
Copic Ciao marker, the perfect beginner marker, now has 180 colors available, up from 144. The new colors are taken from some of the most popular Sketch colors and are very helpful for filling in gaps in your Ciao collection. Available individually or in the new Ciao 36 E set. These markers are now in-stock and shipping, so look for them from your favorite Copic retailer.

 


Colors include: E25, E40, E41, E59, C0, C2, W0, W2, BG13, BG72, B18, B28, B99, E000, E15, E18, YR000, YR15, Y000, Y35, YG09, YG17, G29, G82, BG000, BV000, BV25, V01, V05, RV14, RV69, R000, R14, R81.

S0... what better way to get excited about new products, than with a giveaway? Leave a comment on THIS POST (by midnight 1/9/2011) then Monday, January 10th, winners will be randomly selected. Winners will be mailed a NEW 2011 Copic Color Swatchbook to keep track of their Copic collections.   Three winners will be chosen from EACH of our designer's blogs, so after you check this blog, go visit the blogs of all the other designers. All comments are welcome, though the contest is only open to the US & Canada.

You'll see a new name on the list of designers, Bianca Mandity, an altered artist and instructor from Indiana. Bianca is joining the Copic Instructor team to help with training Fine Art stores and Art Schools, so give her a big welcome, and look for more Altered Art and Fine-art events popping up on the Copic Calendar.

Sherrie Siemens
Marianne Walker
Jennie Black
Debbie Olson
Lori Craig
Bianca Mandity
Sharon Harnist
Jenn Balcer
Colleen Schaan

Speaking of events... are YOU going to be attending CHA or do YOU live in the LA area?  Are YOU interested in being Copic certified?  If so, we would like to invite you to apply for our Intermediate Certification Class being held January 27th or our Standard Certification Class held January 28th.   You can find details and applications HERE.

Be sure to check each blog, leave a comment, visit over the weekend to see more new stuff and come back on Monday to see if you've won a prize.

And the Winner is...

The winner of the 24 piece Copic Wallet is commenter #24...Jan Hunnicutt! 

Congratulations Jan!  Please email me with your address and we will get that right out to you.

jan hunnicutt said...

Thanks for sharing your flicking tutorial, those butterflies are gorgeous! My favorite place to do my crafting is at the kitchen table in the midst of all my goodies. My kitchen was remodeled in 2008 to include craft storage and a table big enough to spread out on. Thanks for the chance to win the Copic marker wallet!

Reply April 22, 2010 at 11:47 PM

Thank You, News, Flicking Tutorial... oh, and a Copic Giveaway!!!!

Comments are still open if you would like to comment on the post and tutorial,
but the Blog Candy Contest is now closed. 

I have SO much to share with you today... I'm like a bubbling brook... ready to overflow it's banks!  LOL

First, I have to thank Lynn Lloyd and the fan-tabulous ladies at The Stamp Shack for allowing me to come into their store and their lives and share my love of Copics.  I taught 11 classes over a three day period to a jam-packed store... it was SO much fun!  I can't wait to go back - but I'm thinking that we might want to rent a tent next time to expand out into the parking lot!  LOL

I also have to tell you that I taught my very first Copic Certification Class on Monday!  I was SO nervous - but the gals in the class were astounding... so very enthusiastic and attentive!  They even laughed at my corny jokes and silly dancing!  LOL  I had so much fun that I can't wait for my next one! 

Speaking of that... my next certification class is now open to the public!  I will be teaching a Copic certification class in Birmingham, AL on Friday, May 14th.  Applications are now open to craft enthusiasts...so if you have been waiting to sign up... time is limited!  Do it now!  You can see a list of all currently open classes HERE on the Copic site. 

And that leads me into my next little bit of exciting news...  I am SO thrilled to announce that Jenn Balcer (part of the famous face of Splitcoast) has agreed to join our Regional Certification Team!!!  Woot-Woot!!!  Jenn will be working with Sharon Harnist to cover the great state of Texas.  I know she will do an amazing job... she is SO uber talented!

To welcome Jenn to the team - we obviously have to have a celebration...so let's give something away!  How about a 24pc Copic Wallet!!!  (sorry - markers not included LOL)  This is the perfect way to transport 24 of your FAVORITE colors to a crop or take them to the beach or to your next doctor's appointment.

Post a comment telling me where your favorite place to "get crafty" is... to be entered into the drawing.  I will be ending comments and drawing a winner at midnight Saturday (24th).  

For me... I like to get crafty just about anywhere... but my "temporary studio" is my favorite crafty place and I was able to sneak a few minutes of time tonight to do a little tutorial for you.

______________________________________________________________

Copic Blending 101 - Flicking

One of the easiest ink application techniques is called flicking.  It is a way of applying layers of color AND blending all at the same time... and it creates beautiful effects. 

Here's a flick...

 

Notice how the top and bottom flick are nice and smooth and the middle flick has a blob on the end?  Try not to blob... 

Basically the flicking motion is snapping your fingers and wrist in a motion that brings the marker tip down to the surface of the paper, across, and up all in a super quick movement.  Remember that blob?  That's because I didn't have my flicking going fast enough and I set the marker tip on the paper for a quick second before stroking it to the side and up.  Remember to get it moving BEFORE it touches the paper. 

Okay... so we start coloring like normal... apply a layer of the lightest color.  This stamp is HUGE (seriously - it's as large as my whole hand) so I am only coloring one wing at a time - remember... wet on wet to blend well.

 

Now I start flicking!  I add the second color (medium) to the wing in a flicking motion... flicking towards the lighter area. 

 

I add the third color (darkest) to the wing also in a flicking motion... flicking toward the light.

 

Now I start blending.  I add the color up... (light, medium, dark) and I blend backwards (dark, medium, light)  Remember - we blend two colors together with the lighter of the two colors.   So here I am blending the dark and the medium purples together with the medium color.  To blend, I actually do a "double flick" and flick to both sides (sort of in a swinging motion) to blend the two colors together without removing the darker color.

I continue blending.  I move on to the area between the medium and the light.  I use the lighter of the two (the light) to blend.  Double flick... away I go! (Sorry - I don't have a photo of this one.)

Now technically you're done... you've colored and blended the inside of the wing from dark to light.  But I like to get fancy... so I'm going to go from that light - back to dark... in a different color! 

I'm pretty limited in my flicking motions... I can only flick in one direction... so for this, I'm going to turn my paper 180 degrees.  Now I'm going to add color to the outside of the wing... going from light (in the middle) to dark (on the outside)... I already have a light color down.. so I flick my medium color towards the light center...

 

Then I add my dark layer - again flicking towards the light...

 

And then I blend... remember - always use the lighter of the two colors and "double flick" to blend easily.

 

Here's what the wing looks like when it's done...

 

Here are some other samples of the same concept...

And here is the finished card that I made with my Flicked Butterfly... I call it a flickerfly...  I think it's purrrrty!  Of course, I had to add a touch of bling with the Specia pen. :)  

 

I hope you've enjoyed the news and the tutorial... and I hope you join me (and the rest of the team) in our celebration to welcome Jenn to the team! 

(Okay... isn't that butterfly image GORGEOUS? And it's HUGE... it's seriously as large as my hand... that's a 5x5 card... Holy Humongo! I got this and many other amazing images at CHA from a new found company called Elusive Images.  Glenda is the owner/designer/artist/teacher extraordinaire!  Her images scream to be colored... or inked... or embossed... or foiled... - you get the idea.  They are stunning... and I can't wait to show you more of what I've done with them!  Thanks Glenda!)

Thanks for stopping by!  Don't forget to visit the rest of the team for a chance to win! 

Lori Craig

Sherrie Siemens

Sharon Harnist

Jennie Black

Jenn Balcer

Debbie Olson

Sally Lynn MacDonald

Colleen Schaan

Michelle Wooderson 

Stained Glass

I want to thank each and every one of you for visiting my blog during our Three Day Mega Hop for JustRite Stamps!  WOW... I was blown away by the sweet and kind comments...  I even had a few people say my designs reminded them of Mary Engelbreit!  WOW... now THAT'S a compliment!  Make sure to check out the JustRite Inspirational Blog starting later today for a list of blogs that will be picking the winners!

I have just a quick post today as I'm getting packed and ready to head to the airport!  I'm off to Framingham, MA for the weekend to teach two HUGE, sold-out Copic classes and to mix and mingle at the Collins Group Trade Show.  It's sort of like a little, mini-CHA with lots of great manufacturers showcasing their products and three days of classes and learning and fun!  I'm SO looking forward to it!

One of the classes I'm teaching is a basics Getting Crafty With Copics and I will be speeding through the coloring/numbering system and teaching the basic blending techniques.  Here is the card that the participants will be creating...  the image is called Stained Glass Magnolias and it is from Magenta.  It's a pretty simple card, but I really want them to focus on the techniques and not the design. 

I'll TRY to remember to take pics and I'll share more about the weekend when I get back.

Wish me luck... and if you are attending... make sure to stop in and say hi!

Have a wonderful weekend!

colleen

It's Big... It's Huge... It's MEGA!!! (Blog Hop w/CANDY!)

_______________________________________________________________

I'm joining over 80 other designers who are all celebrating the Mega March Blog Hop with JustRite Stamps! (Don't worry... we've split up the hop into three days so as not to overwhelm you with inspiration!)  LOL

Even though I don't really sew, the Stitched with Love set is one of my favorites!  I just adore this little heart-pin cushion image...so I stamped it (with a swirly boarder) twice.  I colored both images and then I cut one of them out as a smaller circle and popped it up inside the other one.  This gives it a bit of dimension and I was able to pierce the image with a real stick pin!  LOL  The sentiment from the Loving Thoughts set is the perfect compliment to the heart image.  

I wanted to do something classic and simple... yet bight and fun... so I refrained from embellishments on this one (with the exception of some faux stitching... it IS after all a sewing image! LOL)  I also decorated the inside with a third colored image. 

I went for broke with my next card!  I wanted something fun and frilly and sweet!  I stamped the gorgeous flower image from the Beautiful Spring set and colored it with my Copics.  (YG01/YG03/YG07/Y32/Y38/YR68/BG0000) I even stamped the image a second time and cut out a few extra flowers to glue onto the colored image.  It's like a bouquet of fresh spring air!  I used a sentiment from the Joyful Hearts set and finished it off with an organdy bow and some pretty pearls.

And of course... we can't celebrate without prizes!!!  So read on for more details!

27 designers, FIVE shopping sprees each day.  No one knows where the prizes will be!  Each day of the hop JustRite will have five Mystery Blog Candy Prizes hidden along the hop with a total retail value of  $600.  JustRite will randomly select five mystery blogs each day of the hop and randomly allocate each of the shopping sprees.  For your chance to win, simply leave a little love (a comment) on each designer’s blog including the JustRite blog.  The more designers you leave comments with, the better your chances of winning.  Each day’s comments will remain open for three days.  A winner from each of the mystery blogs’ comments will be randomly chosen using Random.org.  Consult the listing of designers at the JustRite blog each day (each day’s designers will be different) and start out on your way!  Beginning Friday, March 26, summaries of all the winners will be posted on the JustRite blog.  Good luck to everyone and enjoy all the JustRite eye candy along the hop! 

Today during the JustRite Mega March Blog Hop (Day One) JustRite and its sponsors will be giving away the following five prizes:

· $200 JustRite Shopping Spree

· $100 Spellbinders Shopping Spree

· $100 Stampers Dream Shopping Spree, and

· Two additional $100 JustRite Shopping Sprees! 

Blog comments for Day One will be open until Thursday at 6pm EST.  On Friday, JustRite will announce on their blog which five blogs have the mystery candy for Day One.  You will need to go to the JustRite blog to determine where you need to go to find out if you are one of the five lucky winners.

Visit the following blogs for inspiration that is JustRite...

JustRite Inspiration Blog
Becca Feeken
Tosha Leyendekker
Kazan Clark
Laurie Schmidlin
Kellie Fortin
Amy Sheffer
Jerri Jimenez
Denise Marzec
Michelle Rodgers
Stephanie Kraft
Sally Lynn MacDonald
Cindy Lawrence
Jenyfur Pohl
Silke Ledlow
Carolyn King
Dawn Easton
Holly Simoni
Julie Overby
Karen Maldonado
Colleen Schaan
Kimberly Crawford
Karen Taylor
Maren Benedict
Eli Harlan
Linda Beeson

Good luck to all and Happy Hopping!

Colleen

Copic Sparkle Winner an Our New Home

What?  It's Tuesday already?  What happened to the weekend? 

Oh yeah...that's right... I was busy buying a home!  LOL

In all the hustle and bustle of the "Big Move" I almost forgot to post the winner of my Copic Sparkle Blog Candy!!!  So without further delay... here it is...

Congratulations to Diane!!!  Diane wrote...

Wonderful blog, wonderful markers! Take care, ~Diane

Posted by: Diane | February 03, 2010 at 12:39 PM

Thanks everyone for the kind comments both about the blog and about the product.  Diane, your Spica Glitter Pens are on their way!!!  

Now for all of you who have been begging for pictures of the new place... here they are!!!  We closed yesterday and headed over for a few quick pictures... oh, and to drop off the new TV that we purchased already!  (Rolling my eyes... the boy's toys!)

Walk along as I give you a tour...

This is the outside front.  I can't wait for the flowers and bushes to start blooming!

This is the most important room in the house... it is my unfinished art studio!!!  I've been designing and planning all week. 

Here is the kitchen... it's pretty awesome!  Now I guess I'll have to learn how to cook.  LOL

Here is one of my favorite things about the house... just look at those windows!  It's the view of our living room from the upstairs balcony.  I somehow have to figure out what sort of curtains I want to use here...  hmmmmm...

Here is the living room from the main floor by the kitchen.  See... Nate's already playing with the new TV.  (more eye rolling)

Here's something pretty cool... our bathroom... or should I say "The Spa" as it has already been dubbed.

Guess what's just off the bathroom?  A walk in closet.  And I do mean walk in... heck... we could probably drive a car in here... it's HUGE!  I'm gonna have to buy more clothes!  LOL

And the bedroom... with a nice cozy fireplace... just flip a switch and ahhhhh - how romantic! 

The view from the bedroom... LOTS of wood!  I love how open it all is.  Our dogs will have a field day running in circles from one walk way to the other.

Here's something strange...  can you say, "Arrrrrrrh"  (This is in the guest bathroom off the living room... it REALLY doesn't fit with the rest of the style of the house... I'm thinking of doing a pirate theme complete with Parrots in there.) 

And some more outside... 

The deck off the kitchen.

 

From the lot line corner... so happy to have some wooded area! The pups will LOVE that.

The back.  Yup... just look at all those windows...   who wants to come help me wash them?

Here's the side with the walk out where my studio will be.

And here's a final shot of the house...  I can't believe it's all ours... (well... it's all the banks... but we will just pretend it's not!  LOL)

We are so incredibly blessed! 

The movers and packers will be here (in OK) this week and we drive back to Atlanta on Saturday.  Then the hard work begins!

Thanks for hanging in there with me though the house tour... I've got some more sneak peeks of beautiful stamp images tomorrow - so make sure to stop back!

Hugs,

colleen

What's Glittery, Bright, and full of Bling?

Our newest Copic Regional Instructor - that's who!!!

While at CHA last week Marianne Walker surprised Jennie Black by inviting her to join the team of Regional Certification Instructors.  It was awesome...  after the first shocked, "WHAT?"  and the, "Are you serious?"  came the, "YESSSSSSSSSSSS!" and applause broke out around the table.  (The rest of the team was in on the surprise and we had been very careful not to  spill the beans.) 

Jennie will be supporting the Southwestern Region of the US... and she is already busy setting up certification classes all around her region. 

I'm SO excited to have Jennie join the team.  She is bright, fun, giggly, and full of energy... get the two of us together and it's a non-stop chatter and motion-fest!  LOL  I'm thinking they have us on opposite sides of the US so that we don't get into too much trouble...  (wink)

(Colorful Copic gals!  Top row from left - Lori Craig, Sally Lynn MacDonald, Sharron Harnist and Debbie Olson.  Front row from left - Nancy Zenke, Sherrie Siemens, Marianne Walker, Jennie Black, and me.)

So... our team is celebrating... and you know what that means... BLOG CANDY! 

To help us celebrate the addition of such a fabulous, sparkling personality, each member of the Regional Certification Team and the Blogging Team will be giving away a Spica Glitter Pen Set!  These glitter pens are AMAZING...  so sparkly and so easy to use! 

Make sure to leave a comment on this post for a chance to win.  I'll be drawing the winner on Friday at 10:00 pm...and we will announce the winners on Tuesday.  

To visit the other members of the Copic team... check out the links below!

Northwest: Sherrie Siemens / Marianne Walker

Southwest: Jennie Black

Northern Midwest: Debbie Olson  

Central Midwest: Lori Craig

Southern Midwest: Sharon Harnist

South: Colleen Schaan (HEY - THAT'S ME!)

Northeast: Sally Lynn MacDonald

Western Canada: Sherrie Siemens

Eastern Canada: Sally Lynn MacDonald

Floater: Marianne Walker

Blog Team Member: Michelle Wooderson

Thanks for stopping buy today!  I've got some sneak peeks coming up later in the week - so make sure to come back for a visit then!

Colleen

"A" is for Apple - and a Winner!!!

First off I want to say a huge THANK YOU to everyone who visited and left comments on last week's blog post! What a wonderful community of crafters you all are. 

I know you are dying to know who won the big Copic give-away... but I'm going to hold out just a bit longer...  well... at least until the end of this post!  LOL

I wanted to share this card with all my blog readers... it's for you!  I got this adorable little Apple Emma from C.C. Designs and this was my first attempt at coloring her up.  I wanted a traditional fall/school look so I stuck with a basic red and green color combo.  The green patterned paper actually wasn't the right shade of green, so I whipped out my G24 marker and colored the paper to match the image.  (Gotta love how easy it is to make everything match with your Copic markers!)

I wanted to cut out the image with my scallop Nestability, but somehow I got it mis-aligned and one edge got chopped off... so I improvised and came up with this fancy bit of framing. 

I added a few stitches, some highlights on her cheeks, some eyebrows, and a tiny button nose to help her breath.  Isn't she sweet?  Just like all of you!

(Colors Used: E0000/E00/E02/E21/E25/E27/E29/G40/G21/G24/G28/R22/R24/R27/R29/E50/E42/E35)

Now... for the part you've all been waiting for...(drum roll please....)

I had over 360 comments - and I printed them all off... chopped them apart, piled them on the floor and then drew one... (with the help of my dogs!)

           

And the lucky winner is....

Lisa Gobea!!!  She writes...

    Wow, your Santa is just so over the top wonderful. Congrats! I use mostly the sketch, and I make cards to put on my blog that I started just to share my joy of Copics. I just found these wonderful markers this summer only after I had purchased the Stampin Up set of markers. Well what can I say, I sold those on ebay and spent the money to buy my first set of Copics.. I have never looked back.. I highly doubt that I will ever used another brand of markers..My copics give me all of the results that I have spent hundreds on hours and money on to get and never did. I want to get the airbrush system next. But I am afraid that will have to wait until after the holidays...lol...Have a great day.

Congratulations Lisa!  Please contact me and let me know if you would like the ABS-1 or the 12 Sketch Markers!  

Hugs to all... and thank you for visiting!

colleen

Colorful Blog Hop Celebration - With Candy!

*Commments are now closed.  Thank you to everyone who visited and commented.  I will be posting the winner on Monday, November 16th.

It is with butterflies in my stomach and stars in my eyes that I make this announcement...

I am joining the Copic team!!!  

I was contacted by Marianne a few months back and she asked if I would be interested in teaching a few Copic classes in the area.  Ummmm, YES!  (Didn't even have to THINK about that response.)  Apparently my students have been talking about me... and she was hearing good things (OMGosh - thank you thank you thank you students!!!)  LOL

I was a bit concerned that our upcoming move would put me out of the running for teaching classes, but our Atlanta location is actually a better area.  So...

I will be a Copic Regional Certification Instructor for the Southern region. 

I am SOOOOO pumped!  I will be able to travel and teach the ever-popular Copic Certification Classes AND meet TONS of wonderful crafters along the way! 

I just spent the past few days in Eugene meeting with Marianne, some of the other Regional Instructors, and the amazing people who run Imagination International Inc.  I can't tell you how honored I am to be representing such a wonderful company and to be working with such an amazing group of people!

I am joining a WONDERFUL team of uber-talented ladies and we are celebrating with a Big Ol' Copic Blog Hop and a chance for you to win some totally-rocking Blog Candy!

To participate, please leave a comment on THIS post answering ONE of the following questions:

1. How do YOU use your Copics?
2. Which Copic products do YOU use and WHY do you love them?
3. Why do YOU wish you had Copics?

There will be two ways to win:

1. One winner from each blog will be randomly chosen.
2. We will be reading through comments as well.  If we find a testimonial that we REALLY like, then we will contact that person about using their story for our CHA booth and they would then be given a prize equal to that of the random winners.  Make your comments good!

Wanna know what you could win?  (Well Duh, of course you do!) LOL

Winners will get their choice of either an ABS-1 or any 12 Sketch Colors.  WOW... now THAT'S a prize worth playing for!

          

Our blog hop will be open from Wednesday, November 11th through Saturday, November 14th.  Comments will be closed on my blog at midnight (CST) on Saturday, November 14th.  

So... go start hopping!  Please visit the other team member's blogs for more chances of winning!

• Marianne Walker
• Debbie Olson
• Sherrie Siemens
• Sally Lynn MacDonald
• Sharon Harnist
• Lori Craig
• Michelle Wooderson

And because I couldn't post without some EYE CANDY as well... here's my latest Copic creation!

 

I stamped the "I Believe" Santa image from Flourishes and colored him with my Copics (C00/C1/C3/C5/E0000/E00/E02/E93/R02/R05/R22/R24/R29/R37/G12/G14/G16).  I LOVE using stamps like this with stippling because it makes is super simple to color... already showing where the highlights and shadows are.  All I had to do was add color.  Easy Peasy!  I kept the layout simple and uncluttered with just a button (colored with my Copics as well) and a bow.  "I Believe" that this might actually be my holiday card this year! 

Thanks for stopping in today and celebrating with me. I want to send celebratory hugs out to:

The members of the Copic Blog Team

Debbie Olson

Michelle Wooderson

Sharon Harnist

Sherrie Siemens

Sally Lynn MacDonald

And the other Copic Certification Regional Instructors

Northwest: Sherrie Siemens / Marianne Walker

Southwest: Marianne Walker

Northern Midwest / Chicago: Kathy Sanders

Central Midwest: Lori Craig

Southern Midwest: Sharon Harnist

South: Colleen Schaan (HEY - THAT'S ME!)

Northeast: Sally Lynn MacDonald

Western Canada: Sherrie Siemens

Eastern Canada: Sally Lynn MacDonald

Floaters: Debbie Olson / Marianne Walker

Ranger U - Day 1 with Claudine and a winner!

Onto Part 3 of my Ranger Update...(click here to see Part 1 and Part 2)

After spending the morning with Suze, we had a quick lunch and hunkered down for the afternoon with Claudine Hellmuth.  This was the part that I was totally looking forward to!  As a "painter" long before I became a "stamper" I was excited to see Claudine's new Studio line of products and get a chance to use them. 

I fell in love!  Claudine has a new line of acrylic paints and mediums out called Studio.  The multi medium is like heaven... you can use it for anything!  The holding power is amazing; it SMELLS sooo good, and the consistency is like buttah!  But the real prize that afternoon was her paints... OMG!  Smooth as silk... bright, vibrant, creamy.  The cool thing about her paints is that they are so highly pigmented that you can mix them with water and they are still just as saturated with color!  It is so easy to create washes and glazes.  There are 15 gorgeous colors that you can mix and match for an endless pallet.

We also got a chance to use Claudine's brushes (she admitted she's like me when it comes to caring for brushes!!!)  and her uber cool new Sticky Backed Canvas.   You heard right... STICKY BACKED!  It is the most innovative product out there right now... it can be used in 100's of ways... (just wait for a tutorial or two...)

I wasn't able to take any photos of Claudine as she was teaching... being I was WAY to busy painting and playing to pick up my camera.  But here is a photo of Claudines work and some of the ways she uses the paints.  She is AMAZING.  

Not only is Claudine hugely talented, she is also the sweetest thing!  I was thrilled to be sitting right up front and be on the receiving end of her sparkly smile more than once.  I'm now an official Claudine groupie... and I can't wait to take more classes from her in the future!

Thanks Claudine!!!

And Now...The Winner

Okay... so now that I have rattled your ears off... what you REALLY came here for... (and most of you probably just skimmed over my babbling to get to this point anyway!)  LOL

After printing and chopping up all of the entries for the $25.00 gift certificate to 7kidscollegefund... I drew out a name... and that name was...

ALLISON! 

Congrats Allison, shoot me an email with your email and regular mail addy... I'll get that GC sent out right away!

Hugs to you all...

Colleen

Look Who's Here! (and I have blog candy!)

Hey all... I'm back!  I know I am a bit later than I said I would be, but I had things to do... you know... like CREATE A NEW BLOG!  Do you like???    I DO!!! 

After having some technical issues with my old blogging software and service provider, I decided to make the move to TypePad... and I LOVE it!  I am on my free - Trial Period - but you better believe that I am here to stay!  I now have the ability to write up posts ahead of time and schedule their reveal... how cool is that?  I also have the ability to change up and design my "look" more than before. 

Talking about the look... what do you think?  I actually created that banner!  Do you love it?  I used this super awesome digital scrapping kit that I downloaded (free) from Carrie Stephens at FishScraps.  She designs all these gorgeous papers and embellishments and puts them together in kits... and she was generous enough to give me permission to use her kit to create my blog banner...  (my very first one mind you... and I can't wait to make more!)  Thanks Carrie!

I spent the entire last week building my blog roll and adding in my lists... I still have a bit of work to do on my bio and resume pages... but that will all come. 

I also have added some additional ways to subscribe to my blog... there are widgets in the upper left column... just click on your choice of subscriptions and get your daily updates.  Speaking of subscriptions... if you have previously subscribed to my blog using Feedblitz... well.. um... you need to resubscribe... we messed up a bit when we did our domain mapping and lost all of my subscribers... SORRY!  I'm hoping you enjoy my blog enough to sign up again.  (And yes... I will still be offering my Technique Tuesdays, Thursday Throwdowns, and Friday Featured Cards...)

Just one last piece of technical mumbo jumbo... I have to ask you all to check out your blogrolls... if I am listed on your blog, you may need to update your link.  My new address is www.distinctivetouches.com  That's it... nothing else... some of you have that, and some of you have something else...  So again... if you could take a few minutes to update your blogrolls and your bookmarks I would be SUPER appreciative... I promise... it's the last time!

And to show you how excited I am about this new blog and how appreciative I am to all of my readers... I'm going to offer blog candy!!!  I will give a $25.00 gift certificate to 7kidscollegefund to one lucky winner.  All you need to do is subscribe to this blog (using any of the options) and leave a comment for me on THIS post.  You have until midnight on Sunday Oct. 26th... I'll draw a name and post the lucky duck on Monday. 

Thanks for hanging in there with me...  I'll be back in a bit  with the first post about my experiences at Ranger U.

Hugs!

Colleen