As many of you know, I write a Copic technique article for each issue of CardMaker magazine. Imagine my surprise this month when I saw the Winter 2012 issue... with MY project on the cover!
I am so excited... I think they did such a beautiful job photographing it!
When they asked if they could "feature" me on the CardMaker Facebook Page today, I was thrilled...
Check out their FB page HERE for a quick "Catching Up with Colleen" post!
Thanks CardMaker!
My very last post is up over on the CardMaker Blog!
I'm sharing another favorite product with you... can you guess what it is? I've used it here on this card:
Head on over to the CardMaker Blog HERE to read my article and find out just how I created this holiday card.
Thanks for stopping in!
Welcome to the CardMaker Blog hop!
The design team from CardMaker has partnered up with Flower Soft to bring you some fluffy fun!
Our theme? Animals!
I started with this cuddly critter couple from Stampavie. Stamped it in dark ink, and then proceeded to add a bit of color. Even though the birds were going to get the Flower Soft treatment, I still added a base color with my markers... just in case I had any "open spots" that didn't get fully covered... I didn't want my poor birdies to have bright white pox marks. I then colored up the rest of the image (the socks and the branch) as I normally would.
Once the image was colored up... I got down to adding the Flower Soft. I started with the smallest areas first (the face). I applied my glue so that it created a fully coated surface, and then sprinkled on some Ivory Flower Soft. Once that was done, I glued up the bodies and added the Delphinium Blue Flower Soft.
I let it all dry completely before turning it upside down and tapping off the excess. I then had to take a tweezers and pull just a few blue spots from the face and pulled off the Ivory from the beak and eye area.
I love the great 3-D effect that I got... it almost looks like my feathery friends are real!
Some of the things I learned from my first experience with Flower Soft:
For more fluffy critter fun... head on over to these blogs and check out what the designers created.
CardMaker Blog
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Supply List |
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Cardstock: |
Blue Jean and Blush Dark Red (Bazzill Basics) X-Press It Blending Card (Imagination International Inc.) |
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Patterned Paper: |
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Image(s): |
Robins (Retired Gillian Roberst - Stampavie) |
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Ink(s): |
London Fog - Memento (Tsukineko) |
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Copic Markers: |
B41/E50/Y38/E21/E25/R81/R24/R29/R89/C1/C3/C5 |
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Dies: |
Polka Dot Square (Spellbinders) |
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Other: |
Ivory and Delphinium Blue (Flower Soft) |
Can you believe it's mid-November already? If you are like me, you need to start planning for the upcoming holiday season!
Today's hop will be just the thing to get you started as the CardMaker blog team members share their own favorite holiday yummies and gift ideas.
One of my favorite holiday treats is a nice cup of hot chocolate. (Oh, who am I kidding, I like hot chocolate year round! LOL)
I've found that I can make simple "tasty treats" for neighbors and friends by making my own "mix" and putting it into little jars.
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Hot Chocolate Mix
Makes 16 cups of mix. Divide mix into small jars or containers. Mix 3-4 tbs. of mix with 1 cup of hot water.
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I can create a small gift set by adding an accompanying card. Here I have the "Waiting For Santa" image from Whipper Snapper Designs and a "Holiday Hello" sentiment by Flourishes.
I stamped the sign post a second time and used it to decorate the treat jar. I also added a layer of flower soft on the bottom as snow.
Looking for more holiday yummy treat ideas? Check out these other bloggers for more tasty inspiration!
CardMaker BlogThanks for stopping by today!
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Supply List |
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Cardstock: |
Bazzill Basics (Calypso and Stonewash) X-Press It Blending Card |
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Patterned Paper: |
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Image(s): |
Waiting for Santa (Whipper Snapper Designs |
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Ink(s): |
Memento Tuxedo Black (Tsukineko) |
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Copic Markers: |
B000/B00/B12/B24/R22/R24/R29/R59/E33/E23/E44/BV31/C1/Y000 |
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Dies: |
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Other: |
polka dot embossing folder, black multiliner |
Welcome to another fabulous CardMaker blog team hop! This month CardMaker paired up with the awesome adhesives from Xyron and sent us some sticky fun!
One of the coolest things I've gotten to play with lately is the Xyron Create A Sticker tool! This little cutie allows you to turn any object (paper, button, ribbon) into an instant sticker.
I ran two pieces of cut cardstock through to add a thin layer of adhesive to the back of each strip quickly and easily.
Just pull the top plastic layer off to reveal the "sticker".
Another product that I got a chance to play with was the Wedge Shape Glue Stick. I've never been a big fan of glue sticks in the past because most of the ones I've used were round... and most of the layers needing adhesive were square... leaving my corners without! The wedge shape gives me the best of both worlds. It has a sharp corner on one side and a soft curve on the other... which makes it easy to apply adhesive to any shape.
I put both of these products to use on this cute mini-card. Super quick and easy with the adhesive options.
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Supply List |
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Cardstock: |
Kraft, X-Press It Blending Card |
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Patterned Paper: |
Carta Bella - Beautiful Memories |
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Image(s): |
Gnomes - WhimSoDoodles (digital) |
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Ink(s): |
Black Multiliner .3 |
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Copic Markers: |
R22/R24/R29/R89/G21/G24/G28/E11/E23/E55/W1 |
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Dies: |
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Other: |
Xyron Adhesives |
I also got the chance to play with the Xyron Creative Station. (510) I actually have been using an older version of this and use it quite a bit to apply re-positionable adhesive to the backs of my stencils.
This one came with the permanent adhesive roll, so I used it to apply adhesive to all of the layers of my card.
Just stick the cardstock into the opening...
And crank...
The adhesive backed piece will come out the other side and you can use the cutting tool included to quickly slice it off the roll.
I like to run all of my pieces through and then make one cut.
Just pull the top plastic layer off and then pull each adhesive backed piece from the backing layer. I like to attach my layers directly on the sheet, as this helps hold the bottom layers in place.
Remove from the backing sheet and attach to the card base!
I also used the Mega Runner tape runner for this project. I've never used one of these before because I always thought they would be too big and bulky and heavy... but I was pleasently surprised when I used this one. It wasn't heavy at all and fit in my hand nicely.
I like that it applied small dots of adhesive instead of a solid strip.
Using the various adhesive tools by Xyron made layering and attaching super quick and easy and allowed me to "speed" on to other projects!~
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Supply List |
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Cardstock: |
Bazzill Basics (Calypso, Pineapple Crush), X-Press It Blending Card |
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Patterned Paper: |
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Image(s): |
Clown Car - Whipper Snapper |
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Ink(s): |
Tsukineko - Tuxedo Black |
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Copic Markers: |
B000/B00/B12/B24/C1/C3/C5/C7/Y00/Y13/Y15/R24/YR04/YR09 |
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Dies: |
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Other: |
Verve Sentiment |
Find out more about the Xyron products discussed here by visiting the Xyron Website HERE. Visit the Ain't She Crafty blog for more inspiration... and don't forgot to hop on over to these other CardMaker team member's blogs to check out their crafty fun!
Anya
Are you ready for another tutorial?
Head on over to the CardMaker Blog today to check out my latest post... How to Color Red.
Thanks for stopping in!
I LOVE the "Outside the Box" feature on the CardMaker blog... we get to stroll through past issued of the magazine and pick out cards that we love and want to re-create! Many have supplied that are retired or discontinued or that we don't have in our own stampy stash, so we get to re-create them with a twist!
Head on over the the CardMaker Blog today to see what issue my inspiration came from and just who's creation made me smile! (Hint - here's my re-creation...)
I have to say... this is seriously one of my all time FAVORITE cards I've created... Eeeeeiiiiieeee!
(Supply list and details given on the CardMaker post HERE.)
Thanks for stopping in...
Welcome to the Metallic Inspirations Hop - brought to you by the talented CardMaker Blog team!
This month, we were challenged to create a card that sparkled, shone and shimmered! My first thought was glitter (uugh) and then it moved to metallic cardstock (I think I have some in my stash somewhere...) and then I decided to REALLY take this challenge to a different level.
I wanted something "non-traditional" for my card, something not typically found in my studio... so I ran into the tool room and started looking around. I knew I hit the jackpot when I found a roll of metal screen mesh!
I colored up this adorable Polished to Perfection image from My Favorite Things and gave her a bit of bling with green Stickles as the polish. Then, I decided to use the screen as a full layer on my card...and turned in two corners to help "hold" the image in place.
I'm not sure the card is "polished to perfection", but I did enjoy trying something new!
I know the other gals have some AMAZING metallic inspiration for you today... so head on over to their blogs and leave them some lovin'!
Thanks for stopping in...hope your day sparkles!
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Supply List |
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Cardstock: |
Blue Jean and Kelly Green (Bazzill Basics) X-Press It Blending Card (Imagination International) |
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Image(s): |
Polished To Perfection (My Favorite Things) |
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Ink(s): |
Espresso Truffle (Tsukineko) |
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Copic Markers: |
skin - E000/E02/E21/E95 hair - E40/E42/E43/E44 polish - G20/G82/G43 clothes - B60/B63/B66/B69 shoes, cap - C7/C5/C3 |
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Other: |
metallic screen, Eucalyptus Stickles |
Thanks for stopping in yesterday! Hopefully you popped over to Kristy's blog to check out my "adding patterns" tutorial... and signed up for a chance to win the new book! (What? You haven't? Well what are you waiting for... GO....)
Today I'm sending you on another blog trip... I'd love it if you headed over to the CardMaker blog to check out my post from yesterday... another tutorial... showing you how to create this gorgeous card by painting with your Copics!
Hope you are enjoying the wonderful fall color. I'm gearing up for my trip to Eugene, OR and our annual Copic team meeting. LOVE meeting up with the girls and spending time in the beautiful North West.
Thanks for stopping in - have a colorful day!
It's always fun to check out the crafty spaces of other artists, so today I want to invite you into MY crafty area...
Check out my post today on the CardMaker Blog to see my entire studio and check out some of my organizational tips.
It's no secret that I love summer... so this morning when I opened the door to let the pups out, I was surprised by the chill in the air. I guess fall is coming faster than I expected and I'm NOT really ready for it yet!
The one thing that I do love about fall is the gorgeous array of colors that pop out on the trees this time of year. It's not happening here in Georgia yet, but in another month, the hills will be alive with vivid reds, oranges and yellows.
To help herald the start of fall, the CardMaker blog team is hopping today to share some colorful fall fun. I've got one of my my favorite images from Eat Cake Graphics colored up as a fall tree... with bright, colorful leaves! (I like it when the leaves are still on the trees, it's when they fall to the ground that all the work begins!)
To check out more colorful fall fun, check out these designer's blogs:
CardMaker Blog
Anya
Carolyn
Colleen (you are here)
Glenda
Jennie
Kimberly
Trudy
Thanks for stopping by - have a colorful day!
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Supply List |
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Cardstock: |
Phoenix (Bazzill) X-Press It (Imagination International Inc.) |
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Patterned Paper: |
Moonrise (SEI) |
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Image(s): |
Big Tree w/Leaves and Today's Mighty Oak (Eat Cake Graphics) |
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Ink(s): |
Espresso Truffle (Tsukineko) |
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Copic Markers: |
trunk - E42/E23/E59, leaves - YG00/G43/YR23/YR14/YR18/YR09/R05/R29/Y18/W5, grass - YG91/YG93/YG63 |
Good morning! I have a post up over on the CardMaker blog today sharing another "U-Inspire Me" article!
Head on over and find out just what inspired this card...
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Supplies Used
Cardstock: Dragonfly
and Blue Oasis (Bazzill Basics)
X-Press
It Blending Card (Imagination International Inc.)
Stamps: To
the Beach (Mo’s Digital Pencil) Digital Image
What
a Blast (The Cat’s Pajamas)
Ink: Espresso
Truffle (Tsukineko)
Markers: (Copic
colors as listed)
skin:
E50/E30/E31/E71/E04/BV23/BV31
hair:
E23/E15/E37/E59/E77/E49
towel:
Y11/Y32/YR15/BV23
skirt:
BG000/BG01/BG05/BG07
flowers:
Y11/Y32/YR65/YR09
leaves:
YG21/YG23/YG25
bag:
E81/E42/E84
stuff
in bag: B000/B91/B93/Y38/E57
starfish:
Y21/YR23
background:
E30/E34/BG72
Dies: Card
Creator Set A and B (Spellbinders Paper Arts)
Mini
Wavy Pennants (My Favorite Things)
Other: buttons,
black multiliner.3
Welcome to the CardMaker "Comfort Zone" Blog Team hop!
After an informal conversation at CHA about our own personal card making styles and how we often wish we could create in similar styles to others, Brooke (our fearless and decidedly devious leader) challenged us all to "Get Out" of our comfort zone and create something that was completely NOT our normal style.
Ummmm... Brooke, don't you realize that it took me YEARS to be able to actually identify my own "style" and finally embrace it?
I have come to accept that my style is simple, cutsie and colored. Yup, that's me... with rarely a deviation from the standard.
So HOW was I going to accomplish this challenge? Comfort Zone... heck, I would have to get out of my time zone, my end zone and my oh-zone to do this one.
And after all of that fussing and worrying, here's what I created:
Check it out peeps! No Stamping, No Coloring, No Cutsie! OMG... I actually think I love it! (Although all white cards are a pain in the butt to photograph!)
How's THAT for changing up my style?
Make sure to head on over to the other designer's blogs to check out how they tackled this challenge.
CardMaker Blog__________________________________________________
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Supply List |
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Cardstock: |
Express It Blending Card |
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Patterned Paper: |
NA |
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Image(s): |
NA |
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Ink(s): |
NA |
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Copic Markers: |
NA |
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Dies: |
Folk Art Hearts Die (Sizzix) |
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Other: |
Satin Ribbon, White Fabric Flower, Pearl Hat Pin, Embossing Folders |
Like to Doodle but don't know where to start?
Head on over to the CardMaker Blog to ready my card making tip on how to make Easy Doodle Cards like these...
Thanks for stopping by!
Welcome to the CardSwaps "Treat Yourself" blog hop!
There is a fun crop going on over at CardSwaps this week. Challenges and games will be posted August 8-11, 2012 and you have until 11:59PM EST August 14, 2012 to get your projects posted to the appropriate thread.
At the end of today's hop, you will be taken to the crop and I do hope you join in.
Each member of the hop today will have a "secret letter" hidden somewhere in their post. Collect the letters along the way and unscramble them to entered into the drawing for a prize for one lucky hopper! (Check out the forums for details and requirements.)
You should have arrived here from Jeanette's blog. If not, go back and check out her blog and collect your letter. Then collect my letter and hop on over to Laura's blog to continue collecting letters and being inspired.
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The theme of this hop is Treat Yourself. While there are many ways that I actually treat myself (Diet Pepsi, string cheese, painting my toenails, watching the hummingbirds), I find that I get the most pleasure out of treating others. I don't do it often, but sending out a special card for no reason, sharing an unexpected gift, or giving a thoughtful trinket is actually something that I like to do for ME as well as for the receiver. It's a way that I can "pass it on" and it makes me feel good. And THAT is the best treat ever!
I want to share a card that I made for a very special friend. I was lucky enough to do some traveling with her this past week (a special treat for me) and I wanted to send her a card thanking her for being such a wonderful person.
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Supplies Used
Cardstock: Blush Red Dark (Bazzill Basics)
X-Press It Blending Card (Imagination International Inc)
Pattern Paper: Summer Fresh (Simply Stories)
Minuet (Memory Box)
Stamps: Seeds of Summer and With Sympathy (JustRite)
Inks: London Fog and Rhubarb Stalk (Tsukineko)
Dies: Nested Oval Medallion Label (JustRite/Spellbinder Custom Die)
Romantic Rectangles and Classic Oval (Spellbinders)
Other: Wide white ribbon, paper snips, foam tape
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My Secret Hop Letter is: I (sounds like eye)
In case you get lost, here is a full list of all of today's hostesses. Stop by each blog to collect your letter and leave some love!
Brooke Smith -CardMaker blog
Jane
Susan
Margaret
Trudy
Golda
Meredith
Jeanette
Colleen (you are here)
Laura
Ivanka
Marlene
Anya
Angelina
Ana
Ashley
Lora
Thanks for stopping by today... remember to take some time this week and TREAT YOURSELF!
A'Hoy There!...
I've got another post up over on the CardMaker blog today. It's all about what inspires me!
Sail on over and check out my latest project!
(Here's a sneak peek!)
Thanks for checking it out!
Welcome to the Summertime Blog Hop for Really Reasonable Ribbon and CardMaker!
This month, the members of the CardMaker Blog team were invited to play along with the folks over at Really Reasonable Ribbon and create some summertime fun with the July assortment of ribbons included in the monthly ribbon club.
Just look at those bright, shiny colors and textures! I love this collection and was immediately inspired by the basket weave texture on both the green and yellow satin ribbons in the collection.
I created this summer stunner by weaving alternating strips of green and yellow ribbon and then attaching the ends to the back of a piece of white cardstock. (I created a loose weave so that some of the white from the base shows through.) I then attached the woven piece to a white card base with foam tape to give it some dimension.
For me, summer equals romance... so I die cut two hearts from yellow cardstock to match the yellow ribbon and then stamped XO repeatedly on one and With Love repeatedly on the other (Pure Innocence All Occasion Sentiments from MFT). I matted them with green cardstock to match the green ribbon and attached them to the card front with foam tape. I colored up some white cord with Y04 and YG07, threaded it through some white buttons, and attached them to the card front.
I have to say... at the risk of sounding a bit of a braggart... I "HEART" this card!!!
Thank you Really Reasonably Ribbon for sending this yummy collection and allowing me to play along with the Summer Time Hop!
If you are just stopping in, you can start the blog hop at the CardMaker Blog, or head on over to the Really Reasonable Ribbon blog to get back on track.
If you have been hopping along, you should have come from Misty's blog... and you can continue the hop by heading over to Dawn's blog.
Thanks for stopping by - have a Colorful Day!
I LOVE summer... the sun, the heat (yes, I actually enjoy the fry an egg on the sidewalk kind of heat), the ice cream!
Let's face it, summer just isn't summer without the tinkling sound of the ice cream truck!
Today the CardMaker blog team is sharing HOT Summer projects that I know you will find sweet.
This adorable Sweet Treat for Wryn image from Tiddly Inks fit the theme perfectly and I quickly colored her up. Paired with some patterned paper from the Bazzill Basics Avalon collection and she screams Summertime Treat!
For more sizzling summer sweetness, hop on over to the other designer's blogs.
Kimberly Crawford
Carolyn King
Colleen Schaan (you are here)
Anya Schrier
Trudy Sjolander
Michelle Woerner
CardMaker Blog
Thanks for stopping by - have a Super Sweet Day!
I've got a new post over on the CardMaker Blog today.
Stop by to check out another of "My Favorite Product" ideas...
(Here's a hint - )
Stay cool!
colleen
Welcome to the "He's All That" blog hop for the CardMaker Blog group!
Today I'm excited to be bringing you inspiration to help celebrate the GUYS in your life! Whether it's a father, son, husband or grandfather, get BIG smiles with this simple card...
This card features a BIG image from Whipper Snapper that is colored up with Copic markers. I paired it with an extra-large sentiment from MFT and left the layout super simple. (No buttons, bows or frillies for the guys in MY life! LOL)
Are you ready to celebrate the man in your life? Head on over to the other designers hopping along today to see more masculine inspiration!
Kimberly Crawford
Carolyn King
Colleen Schaan (you are here)
Anya Schrier
Trudy Sjolander
Michelle Woerner
CardMaker Blog
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Supplies Used
Cardstock: Capers and Kraft (Bazzill Basics)
X-Press It Blending Card (Imagination International Inc.)
Patterned Paper: Generations Collection (Simple Stories)
Stamps: Kroner (Whipper Snapper Designs)
Big Greetings (My Favorite Things
Ink: Tuxedo Black and Expresso Truffle (Tsukineko)
Copic Markers: skin - E40/E21/E23
hair - C5/C7
Tshirt - W1/W3/0
shirt - E81/E84/E87/YG00/YG99
hat - YG91/YG93/YG95/YG97/YG99
shoes - E11/E23/E37
jeans - B41/B91/B93/B95/B97/B99/B39
ground - W1/W3/W5
background - BG70/BG72/E81/E84/0
Other: Hemp Twine
Thanks for stopping by today... have a Colorful One!
Colleen
Check out the CardMaker blog today
for my post where I walk you through my thought process on
picking colors for images and card projects.
(Image by Mo Manning)
Thanks for stopping in!
Have a Colorful Day -
colleen
Is it Christmas in May?
Nope! Head on over to the CardMaker Blog today to check out the story behind this "cool" little dude!
Welcome to the "Time To Shine" Blog hop! I'm joining a number of fabulous designers today to share projects that celebrate life's events and milestones both big and small.
This hop is just part of the fun happening over in the CardMaker CardSwaps forum this week. Challenges and games will be posted May 16-19, 2012 and you have until May 22, 2012 to get your projects posted to the appropriate thread.
One of the exciting games we are playing is "Unscramble It" and each designer in today's hop has a single special letter in their post. Collect the letters along the way and unscramble them to be entered into the drawing for a prize! Once you collect ALL the letters, the last hostess in the hop will direct you to the thread in the forum where you can find all the details you need to enter the drawing. (Keep Reading for MY Letter!)
I am excited to share my project for this hop... I'm sending this card off to my sister Leanne, who is traveling the well-worn path of weight loss. For years, she has been told that she needs to lose the excess weight and start taking care of her body. For years, she hasn't been ready. This year... she's ready! I'm so proud of her! She is taking it slow and focusing on the successes, not the failures as she she does battle with food and exercise. I made this card for her because I am her cheerleader... her support... her voice-of-reason when needed. I know from personal experience just how difficult it is to lose weight, and I know it's always easier when someone is in the stands cheering you on! So GO Leanne GO!
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Supplies Used
Cardstock: Deep Blue and Stonewash (Bazzill Basics)
X-Press It Blending Card (Imagination International Inc.)
Pattern Paper: Genuine Collection (Authentique)
Stamps: Team Spirit © Krista Smith (Sugar Nellie)
Words of Wisdom (Verve Stamps)
Copic Markers: skin - E50/E21/E33/E93/E95
hair - YR21/Y26/E25/E18
eyes - B12/B26
lips - R85
sweater - B91/B93/B95/B99
shoes/socks/ground - C1/C3
pompons - Y21/Y02/Y35 (SmoochGlitz - Goldrush)
background - BG70/YR30/B91
Dies: Labels 18 (Spellbinders PaperArts)
Other: Black multiliner
white buttons
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Hopefully you've arrived here from Susan's blog (if not, go back and check out her blog and collect your letter), then collect my letter and hop on to Merideth's blog.
My letter is... "R"
And just in case you get lost, here is a list of the hoppers!
Brooke Smith -CardMaker blog
Jeanette
Ashley
Anya Schrier
Golda
Ivanka
Ana
Michelle Woerner
Judy L
Lisa
Trudy Sjolander
Jane
Angelina
Kimberly Crawford
Laura
Tammy
Carolyn King
Marlene
Susan
Colleen Schaan (you are here)
Meredith
Lora
Thanks for stopping in... I hope you find time today to SHINE!
Welcome to the "You Make A Difference" CardMaker blog hop!
Today we are celebrating all of those teachers, leaders, and mentors who have made a difference in our lives.
There are a few special people who have helped shape my life and continue to have an effect on the person I am, and I am so very grateful. One of those people is Mrs. Berg. We called her "Ma Berg" and I spent 18 weeks in her classroom student teaching. She was amazing. Supportive, caring, smart, honest (brutally so when necessary), and invested. She helped mold me into the kind of teacher (and person) I am today. I am thankful that she was such a huge part of my life.
To Ma Berg... and all of the other great mentors and teachers out there... THANK YOU! You really do make a difference!
Check out the other CardMaker Designers to see just who inspires them to say, "Thanks!"
Kimberly Crawford
Carolyn King
Colleen Schaan (you are here)
Anya Schrier
Trudy Sjolander
Michelle Woerner
CardMaker Blog
___________________________________________________________
Supplies Used
Cardstock: Kisses and Blue Oasis (Bazzill Basics)
X-Press It Blending Card (Imagination International Inc.)
Patterned Paper: Avalon (Bazzill Basics)
Stamps: SugarPlums Apple Emma (CC Designs)
FairyTales (Verve Stamps)
Copic Markers: skin - E50/E11/E31/E93/E95
hair - E93/YR21/E33/E15/sepia multiliner
grass - YG11/G24/G07
leaves - YG23/G05
dress/apples - R22/R24/R29/R39
apron - B21/B23/B24/B18
basket - E42/E74/E57/E89
Other: Opaque White, black multiliner, white ribbon, foam tape
Good morning!
Today I'm sharing my first "U Inspire Me" post over on the CardMaker Blog.
Head on over to see the inspiration behind this card... (CLICK HERE)
__________________________________________________________
Supplies Used
Cardstock: Turquoise Mist, Kachina, Bahama and Sawdust (Bazzill Basics) X-Press It Blending Card (Imagination International Inc.)
Image: Fairy (Saturated Canary) Digital Image
Markers: (Copic colors as listed)
skin: E000/E50/E31/E04/B41
hair: T000/E51/E42/E43/E23/Sepia Multiliner
eyes: B41/B24/B29
dress: BG000/BG53/BG45/BG49
wings: BG0000/BG32/0
flowers: R32/R85/R39/Y13
ground: G20/G12/YG23/W1/BG23/0
Dies: Labels 18, Grand Labels 23 (Spellbinders Paper Arts)
Other: white ribbon, white button, cord (colored with BG57), Copic ABS
Good morning peeps!
Just a quick stop this morning to share a quick card and send you over to the CardMaker Blog to check out my latest "favorite product" article!
Here's a peek at the card I created using it... can you guess what my favorite product is?
Check out the CardMaker Blog for all of the deets!
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Supplies used: X-Press It Blending Card, Copic® markers (R22/R35/R37/Y11/YG23/G19) and black Multiliner from Imagination International Inc.; Kisses cardstock and Vintage Marketplace green gingham patterned paper from Bazzill Basics Paper Inc.; Color Your Own stickers from Heidi Grace Designs*.
I was at a wedding this past weekend and as expected, the conversation eventually turned to careers. When asked what I do for a living, I said that I taught people to color. It's the easiest explanation of what I do... but it often causes raised eyebrows and confused expressions. My explanation then expands to include the terms paper crafting, stamping and/or card making.
Sometimes the conversation comes to an abrupt halt with statements of, "It must be nice to have so much time on your hands" and rolled eyes, but every once-in-a-while, there is a spark of interest and people ask, "So, how can I get started in something like that?"
I started card making over 20 years ago. I had to "learn on my own" as I went along... having just as many successes as failures in the yearly stages and purchasing a large number of supplies that I would never use. It isn't how I would suggest anyone get started. Thankfully, there are a number of groups, classes and opportunities to learn the craft today.
One of the very best ways to "get started" in card making is to join a kit club, a club that will send you all of the supplies you need each month to create a number of cards quickly and easily.
I'm a huge fan of the CardMaker Kit of the Month Club. Annie's Attic (publisher of the Copic Coloring Guide series and CardMaker Magazine) also has a number of crafty clubs.
The CardMaker Kit Club focuses on card making and includes all of the supplies (plus more) to create 8-10 unique greeting cards each month. There is a wonderful mix of patterned papers, stamps, card stock and/or bases, envelopes, ribbons, brads, buttons, stickers, tags and any other embellishments necessary.
A full-color instruction booklet is also included with clear step-by-step instructions for a number of techniques each month along with assembly instructions for each card project. The cards are designed by some of the top designers in the industry, so you know they are fresh, fun and inventive.
All of the supplies are excellent quality and it is a great way to begin building your stamping and card making stash. It's also a great way to try out new techniques and expand your card making abilities.
The CardMaker Kit of the Month Club is GREAT for beginners, but it's also something I like to recommend to experienced card makers. It's a wonderful way to "challenge yourself" to try new things, a great way to get out of a card making rut, and even better - its a quick and easy way to whip up a number of greeting cards to have on hand for any special occasion.
Here are just some of the cards I made from the "Friendship Blooms" kit (card designs by Lisa Johnson and Shelia Sommers).
It's easy to substitute items from your own stash too! Here I used pink stamping ink for the flower scallops instead of the suggested white.
It's easy to add your own flair to the card designs. Here I added a doodled border around the flower petals and sentiment.
A number of different "shapes and fold" card bases were included. Here is a tri-fold card, quick and easy with some stamping, stickers and embellishments.
Another kit that I worked with is called "Denim Twist" and ooohhhh, this one was a TREAT! (Card designs are by Keri Lee Sereika.) It includes 8 (4 each of 2 different designs) fancy fold card bases... with a number of options for folding. Here are just two of the cards I made with this kit.
The octagon tag swings open on the arm of blue striped paper to reveal a left-side fold which in turns opens to a right-side fold. Super cute and amazingly easy to create!
Another tri-fold card... complete with lots of layers and tags!
I love having a monthly stash of cards! And I love the quality, designs and clarity of instructions that are included each month in the CardMaker Kit of the Month Club. It's easy to recommend to both new and experienced stampers.
For more information about the kit club, visit the Annie's Attic Clubs web site.
Welcome to the CardMaker Blog Rock Stars Hop! Today we are showcasing cards and projects inspired by songs...
I knew right away what I wanted to do for this project. I even had the perfect image for it!
Can you figure out my song?
It's an Itsy Bitsy - Teeny Weeny...
Yellow Polka-Dot Bikini!!!!
This Saturated Canary image (California Girl - which is also the title of song) was SO perfect... and so darn cute. She's all ready for the beach in her cutie patootie suit!
I'm headed to the beach myself today... albeit NOT in a teeny-weeny bikini!
Head on over to the other designer's blogs to see what songs inspired their creativity this week.
CardMaker Blog
Kimberly Crawford
Carolyn King
Colleen Schaan (you are here)
Anya Schrier
Trudy Sjolander
Michelle Woerner
Thanks for stopping by!
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Supplies Used
Cardstock: X-Press It Blending Card
Bazzill Basics Great Lakes and Grapefruit Bliss
Image: Saturated Canary "California Girl"
Sentiment: My Favorite Things Disco Queen set
Ink: Tsukineko Memento Tuxedo Black
Copic Markers: Skin - E50/E30/E21/E93/BV20
Hair - E40/E42/E43/E44/E74
Lips - R21/R85
Eyes - B12/B26
Glasses - T1
Bikini - Y11/Y17 (Opaque White dots)
Bag - Y21/Y26/Y28
Background - BG70/BG72/E42
Today on the CardMaker blog I've got a post about the birds and the bees... well, the ducks and the bees! LOL
Check out THIS POST to find out what one of my favorite crafting tools is and more about how I made this cutie patootie card!
Supplies used: X-Press It Blending Card, Copic® markers (Y00/Y02/Y08/Y11/Y19/YR04) and Multiliner (Black .3) from Imagination International Inc.; Sea Salt and African Daisy cardstock from Bazzill Basics Paper Inc.; Lucky Ducky stamp set from Verve Stamps; Memento ink pad from Imagine Crafts/Tsukineko.
Today I am sending out "Bird-Day" wishes to my good friend Brooke Smith - the managing editor for CardMaker Magazine and leader of the CardMaker Blog team!
Our assignment for today's hop was to make a birthday card using the color scheme from this photo... teal, pink, white and gray. Little did Brooke know... but, a little birdie told us that TODAY is actually her own birthday!!! So I want to celebrate by sending this card and happy wishes out to her today.
I tried to channel my inner Beate Johns by adding the fancy shaped die, the bling flourish, and the flowers on the bow... It's a bit more flashy than my normal style, but I certainly do like it... and I hope Brooke does too!
Hop on over to the other designer's blogs to see their colorful creations and don't forget to stop by the CardMaker Blog and wish Brooke a Happy Birthday!
Tami Mayberry
Carolyn King
Trudy Sjolander
Colleen Schaan (you are here)
Kimberly Crawford
CardMaker Blog
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Supplies Used
Stamps - Bird Swing (Whimsy Stamps), sentiment (CC Designs)
Inks - Tuxedo Black (Memento)
Cardstock - Blue Calypso, Slipper, Stonehenge (Bazzill Basics), X-Press It Blending Card
Patterned Paper - Oceania (Graphic 45)
Copic Markers - Y21/Y38/E21/E33/E37/BG000/BG53/BG57/YG01/G14/G09/RV32/RV34/RV17
Other - Lacy Square Die (Spellbinders), Flourish Bling (Zva Creative), white ribbon, flowers, black multiliner
Sometimes I think I live under a rock. I honestly think I'm the LAST person on earth to hear about the i-top by Imaginisce. Seriously, how did I not know about this uber COOL TOOL?
When the CardMaker Blog team was told we get to play with products from Imaginisce, I was pretty pumped. I knew they had all sorts of pretty papers, adhesives, albums and even the i-rock... but I DIDN'T know they had stamps (ohhhh, I see some shopping in my future) or this wacky-looking thing called the i-top!
Luckily for me... my package arrived full of i-top goodies... (punches, the i-top tool, and all sorts of brad, button and pin pieces). I hopped on over to the web site to find out how to use the i-top and realized that it couldn't be easier. Just punch, place, squeeze, and pop...out comes a custom-made brad, button, pin, snap or magnet!
tool, fabric circle, top and bottom button pieces
place fabric and put button piece on top (or hook it to the upper clamp)
squeeeeeeze - this is NOT hard at all
open, fold edges in, and place bottom piece into clamp
squeeeeeze again - it will "click" shut (this does NOT require brute strength!)
open and fold plastic edges down to release button
voila... a custom-made button!
I do have to warn you... this is going to be totally addicting! I started by making some fabric buttons in the XL and Large sizes. I used up a bunch of fabric scraps and was a button making machine!
Here's a card I created with a few of my fabric buttons...
(Chipboard flowers painted white and airbrushed with Copic markers - B00/B02/BV01/BV04, fabric strip across the bottom, purple strip with MFT open scallop die, blue strip with Sizzix Brackets die, sentiment from Hero Arts.)
I wanted to try out the smaller sized brads, so I stamped a few hearts (Gina K Designs), colored them up with Copics (R83/R85/R46/R59). I punched them out with the small punch and then "place, squeeze, pop" I made them into brads! (hopping up and down here)
And then.... because I couldn't stop... I went through all of my "pre-colored" images waiting to be used in cards and picked some for my next idea! LOL
Punched circle from colored image
OMGosh... stinkin' cute gnome button!
Gnome button adhered to flower centers for a cute floral arrangement!
I hate to sound like a commercial and I don't like to "pimp" product on my blog... but seriously, this is the coolest gadget around! I want to thank Imaginisce for supplying product for this hop - and for introducing me to something new!
Check out what the other CardMaker Blog Team designers did with their Imaginisce + a bit of imagination!
Imaginisce Blog
Tami Mayberry
Carolyn King
Trudy Sjolander
Colleen Schaan (that's me!)
Kimberly Crawford
Melanie Muenchinger
Lora Brinkman
Thanks for stopping by and have a colorful day!
Have you ever wondered how I "fix" my coloring mistakes?
Head on over to the CardMaker Blog today to read my post about what I do when I get a little ink wild!
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Image by Saturated Canary
Copic Markers
skin: E00/E21/E34/E93/E95/BV02
eyes: B12/B26
hair: Y11/Y21/YR24/E97 (sepia multiliner)
pink shirt:RV52/RV66
purple shirt: BV11/BV13/BV29
sweater/socks:B60/B63/B66/B69
skirt/earings:BG11/BG53/BG57/BG49
jeans:B41/B45/B99
lips:R22/R29
I have to admit... when Brooke and the CardMaker Blog team said we would be doing a hop about BABY cards... I freaked a little. I mean, what do I know about babies? What's a baby announcement supposed to say? Do I even OWN any baby stamps?
Well, the answer to the last question was a resounding no. (How in the word have I survived in the card making world for the past 20 years without ever making a baby card?) So... that was my first challenge - find an appropriate image. I decided that I didn't want an actual baby - so constricting, so I searched for an image I could use for multiple "baby" events... birth announcements, birthdays, showers...
I found this adorable little stitched and stuffed bunny at Pixie Dust Studios! It is perfect for any "baby" occasion and he (or she) is just sooooo cute!
So, I colored the little baby bunny up in both pinks and purples (for a girl card) and in blues and greens (for a boy card). I know that some people are against "color coding" for babies... and in that case a green and yellow bunny would be perfect!
I added a cute sentiment from Sweet & Sassy and created a super simple baby announcement card. Nothing too frilly or to fussy... after all, a new mommy will be busy pampering her bundle of joy and won't have a lot of time for fancy card making.
Now I need some friends who are willing to have little ones so that I can send some cards... Anyone??? Anyone???
For more great Little Lullabies, check out these designer's blogs:
Colleen Schaan (you are here!)
Supplies Used
images - Pixie Dust Studio and Sweet & Sassy
cardstock - X-Press It Blending Card, Midge, Kelvin, Mauve Ice, Iced Pink (Bazzill Basics)
Copic Markers - R000/R30/R81 and V0000/V01/V20 for girl card, B000/B21/0 and G20/YG41/0 for boy card
circle shape die (Spellbinders)
white gel pen
small pearls (KaiserCraft)
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Check back in tomorrow for my BIG announcement and some exciting news!!!
Head on over to the CardMaker Blog today to see a step-by-step tutorial on how I colored the flower bouquet for her hair!
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Project Supplies
Stamp: Sweet Pea Stamps - ©Karen Middleton's Rosarna
Verve (sentiment)
Ink: Tsukineko Memento- Tuxedo Black
Cardstock: Bazzill Basics Paper – Raven, Sugar Cookie, Pinkini
X-Press It Blending Card
Markers: skin – E50/E30/E21/E34/E04/C93
hair – B41/C3/C5/C7/C9/ black multiliner
leaves – YG00/G43/G46
flowers – Y00/RV00/RV52/RV55/RV69
Die Shapes: My Favorite Things – Open Scallop Doily
Spellbinders Paper Arts – Standard Circles
Other: Copic ABS
Sizzix Texture Folder – Textile
fabric flowers
sponge
Foam tape
Welcome to another CardMaker Blog Hop! Today we want to share with you some SWEET cards for the upcoming holiday... one of my favorites... Valentine's Day!
While I try not to indulge myself... this sweet little mouse just can't help it... just look at those yummy chocolates!
This image is Chocolate Cocoa, a digi image from Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps. I printed him out fairly large and colored him with my Copics. It was a bit of a challenge getting all of those different brown tones in there, but I love how it all turned out. Those truffles look scrumptious!
Head on over to the other designer's blogs for even more YUMMY card ideas!
Tami Mayberry
Carolyn King
Trudy Sjolander
Kimberly Crawford
CardMaker Blog
Adhesive woes got you in a gluey mess?
I'm sharing a few tips for using adhesives over on the CardMaker Blog today. You can read my full article in THIS POST.
Card inspired by Michelle Woerner's card on page 70 of the January 2012 issue of CardMaker.
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Supplies used: Cardstock from Bazzill Basics Paper Inc.; Journey Collection printed paper from Authentique Paper; Picket Fence Tablet printed paper from LilyBeeDesign; Memento ink pads from Tsukineko LLC; distress ink pad from Ranger Industries Inc.; First Flower stamp from Loralie Designs; Beautiful You stamp set from Verve Stamps; Lacey Squares (#S4-295) and Postage Stamps (#S4-348) die templates from Spellbinders™ Paper Arts; Copic® markers (B41/B45/G21/G82/E43), Multiliner (Sepia .3), Opaque White pigment, Copic ABS and X-Press It Foam tape from Imagination International Inc.; Scotch Quick Dry Adhesive liquid glue from 3M.
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
I have to admit - I haven't sent a single Christmas card yet! I know... I know... there's little more than a week left and they need to go out NOW!
When Brooke and Tanya challenged the CardMaker Blog team to come up with some quick to make, last minute Christmas card ideas to share I'll admit... I panicked. I'm not much for quick cards - I mean, I do simple layouts... but my typical card takes anywhere from 2-5 hours to make. Get one done in under 10 minutes... are you serious?
Well, I rolled up my sleeves and warmed up my airbrush system and here's what I came up with.
Simple... yet somehow just right.
This would work with a number of different stencils and a variety of colors. Easy Peasy... and just in time!
1 down... 249 left!
Now that I've saved you some time... head on over to the other designer's blogs for even more quick and easy holiday card ideas!
Tami Mayberry
Carolyn King
Trudy Sjolander
Kimberly Crawford
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Supplies Used
Cardstock: X-Press It Blending Card, Bazzill Basics Paper
Stencil: Crafter's Workshop
Stamp: The Cat's Pajama's - Elegant Christmas
Ink: Memento - Paris Dusk
Copic Markers: B26/B18
Copic Airbrush System
If you are a regular reader, you know I've been writing Copic technique articles for each issue of CardMaker Magazine since this past March. I'm flying high today and super excited to announce that I'm expanding my work with them and joining the very first CardMaker Blog Team!
Brooke has put together an amazing group of designers to write and design for the new CardMaker Blog and I'm so honored to be a part of it. The first blog team includes:
Tami Mayberry
Carolyn King
Trudy Sjolander
Colleen Schaan (that's me!)
Kimberly Crawford
We will each be posting card projects, product reviews, and technique articles to the CardMaker blog and participating in themed monthly hops.
I hope you can join us over at the CardMaker Blog for fun, inspiration, and tips and tricks of the trade!
Fly on over and check out the rest of the team!
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Supplies:
white (X-Press It Blending Card)
Concord Grape, Turquoise Mist, Navajo, Raven (Bazzill Basics)
Picket Fence (Lillybee Designs)
Away We Go (The Cat's Pajamas)
Tuxedo Black (Memento)
Copic Markers
BG10/BG15/BG18
BV11/BV13/BV17
RV63/RV66
RV00/W00/W1
Y23/Y26/Y28
B41/0
Wonky Rectangles (Spellbinders dies)
Black Cord
Multiliner
Welcome to Distinctive Touches! My name is Colleen Schaan and I am a teacher, writer and freelance designer. I am currently the Education Director for Imagination International Inc.
