Dar's Crafty Creations

Challenge Cards to Share . . .

2012-01-27T10:03:00.001-05:00

HAPPY FRIDAY EVERYONE!

I hope you're having a great week and are looking forward to an even better weekend!

I'd like to share a few challenge cards with you today ... thanks for taking a peek! And of course, COMMENTS are always appreciated!

What are your thoughts on these two cards I made for the Monday Technique Challenge over on SCS. We were to mimic the design of Irish Beeleek pottery by inking our embossing folders with LIGHT color inks to create our background papers. Here is what I came up with:

The images on both cards come from the Crafty Secrets - Creative Scraps called 'Vintage Images'. The top card was created using SU River Rock ink and the 5x7 Cuttlebug Swirl embossing folder. The sentiment stamp and heart are also Crafty Secrets. One of their new medium stamp sets called 'Grand Greetings' - SM40.

The card below was created using the same embossing folder with SU Soft Sky ink. The flowers are homemade. Created using PunchBunch flower punches an the PunchBunch flower making kit. The leaves were punched using a Martha Stewart leaf punch.

My next card is one created for this week's challenge over at Joan's Gardens.

Here are the requirements for this challenge:

Create a 4.25" x 5 1/2" birthday card
Colors to use are Pink, green and some purple
Include some distressed edges
Add piercing

I have chosen an image from the Crafty Secrets Creative Scraps 'Birthday' sheet. The background paper is DCWV and is more of a light green IRL vs the gray that it looks in the photo.

I used my Zutter Distrezz-It All to distress the edges of that background panel. Paper pierced the panel behind the focus image and my hint of purple is the lacy panel created using my Cheery Lynn Designs B136 Anastasia Border die. The green flourish is also a Cheery Lynn Designs die ... B117 Fanciful Flourish. (Items in RED were purchased at Joan's Gardens). My sentiment stamp is The Artful Stamper and gold Stickles was added to the stamen on the flowers. OH ... I also wanted to mention ... the purple panel on the outside of my focus image is actually a part of the NEGATIVE piece left over from die cutting the lacy panel.

Lastly is my creation for this week's Sketch Challenge over on SCS.

I missed my friend Sue's birthday (yesterday) so decided to create this card for her using the sketch offered in this weeks challenge. Sue's favorite color is purple and I thought this little girl's sad look would express my feelings for missing her birthday. The image is from Nicecrane Designs and is a collage sheet called 'Children Paintings II CS'. There are 8 images on this collage sheet ... ALL are equally adorable. Be sure to pop over and see all the amazing collage sheets, papers, digi images that Ignacio has to offer.

Again, thanks so much for stopping by today. I'm working on a project for Joann Fabrics and I'm only a third of the way through it ... so I'd better get BACK TO WORK!! Have a wonderful day/weekend my friends and I hope to see you back here again real soon!

Hugs,

Darlene

Shelly's Images Challenge

2012-01-26T06:00:00.095-05:00

WOW ... can you believe we are near the end of January already???

AND ...

It's time for another fun challenge at SHELLY'S IMAGES!

Today's challenge is:

"TEXT ME"

(Use Text/Sentiment on the front of your project)

Once again this week, the team has "Designer's Choice" of images to use so that means MORE SAVINGS for you!! Each image the DT members use on their creations, will be offered at a REDUCED PRICE - TODAY ONLY at the STORE. So be sure to check out the team's creations and go grab those images at a fabulous price today!

I LOVE vintage design and thought this sentiment digi called "Key To My Heart" would work fabulously ... and it did!

After printing out my sentiment, I saw this music panel laying on my worktable that I had prepared for another creation but then changed my mind ... and thought I'd incorporate it here and I'm so glad I did ... I really like the outcome of this card.

Recipe:

Papers: White & Black cs, Hot Of The Press 'Music Score' dp, Gold metallic cs

Inks: Tim Holtz Distress Inks ... Broken China, Tea Dye & Scattered Straw

Accessories: Tim Holtz Distress Stain ... Wild Honey, Picket Fence, Tattered Angel Glimmer Mist Bronze, Spellbinder Vintage Die set for Lock & Key, Wilton Gold Doily, Zutter Distrezz-it-All, Stampendous Diamond Dots

I bought these TH Distress Stains last fall while attending a workshop at Joan's Gardens ... and other than doing the project for the workshop, I hadn't used them at all ... some aren't even open yet! MY BAD! That is until today!

After attaching my music score paper to my card front, I sponged around the edges using TH Tea Dye Distress INK ... that didn't seen like enough so I grabbed this dauber topped bottle of TH Wild Honey Stain and did a bit of 'swishing' ... seemed a little to dark so I grabbed the bottle of TH Picket Fence Stain and did a little more 'swishing' and VIOLA !... the antique look I was hoping for!

Other Qualifying Challenges:

Crafty Purple Frog Challenge - Valentine Day/Show Us Some Love

Craft Us Crazy - Full of Love

Samuel Taylors Crafts - Distressing

I look forward to seeing YOUR Text Me creation.

Have Fun!

Hugs,

Darlene

REMINDER ... BLOG CANDY Still Available Through The 31st at SHELLY'S IMAGES!

The Sisterhood of Crafter's Challenge

2012-01-25T06:00:00.037-05:00

Today at The Sisterhood, our challenge theme to you is

STRIPES

(use striped patterned paper)

I don't do a lot of creating with striped paper so this was a bit of a challenge for me! LOL!

HOWEVER, I did find this awesome 2-sided striped paper in the My Mind's Eye 'Lime Twist' paper pack that I purchased last summer at Joan's Gardens amongst my stash!

Isn't this little girl ADORABLE!?!

She comes from a collage sheet called 'Vintage Cute Kids' and can be purchased at Nicecrane Designs. Each of the 8 images is precious and you'll love creating with these collage sheets that Ignacio has in his store. Pink grosgrain ribbon was my only embellishment. The bow was made using the Bow-Easy.

Other qualifying challenges:

Ladybug Crafts Ink TLT challenge - Bows

Stamp with fun #144 - Cute Vintage

Stamps R Us Challenge - Cards for Kids

UnstampaBelles - Anything Goes ... no stamps

Won't you please come join in our fun!

See you at The Sisterhoood!

Hugs,

Darlene

Making a Scene

2012-01-23T15:57:00.000-05:00

Happy Monday ... hope you are off to a great start!

Today I have a couple 'scenery' creations to share with you ... hope you like them.

BELIEVE

This creation began with this adorable "Little Ice Skater" digi image from the "priscillastyles" store. To me, it appeared she was thinking about wanting to join in the skating but was a little shy and didn't have the confidence. That was the THOUGHT behind using this Thomas Kinkade "Skater's Pond" stamp as the background. I simply stamped the image onto my white panel using Versafine Black ink then colored it in with CHALK and make-up applicators. I printed the Little Skater image twice ... once on white paper, then again onto red/white polka dot designer paper. Using my Fiskars swivel craft knife, I cut out her dress, hair ribbon and skates. Her hair & body were colored with a Prismacolor Marker - PM72 - Eggshell. PunchBunch punches were used for the snowflakes and I used Pop Dots for added dimension.

Qualifying Challenges:

House of Gilli - Winter Fun

Karen's Doodles Challenge - Paper Piecing

Touch Twin Markers & More Challenge - Winter

BEARLY READY FOR WINTER

This card was created with the "LET IT SNOW" challenge over on the Gingerloft Challenge Blog. The bear image is one of her digi images and I simply colored it with brown CHALK. My background was made by first punching snowflakes and a moon (circle) from Eclipse Masking material. I placed them around on my white cardstock then sponged over the entire surface with Tim Holtz Broken China distress ink ... then Faded Jeans distress ink. A touch of SU More Mustard ink was sponged across the one side of the moon just to soften it a bit. Not sure it came out exactly as I had it envisioned ... but it's okay. I've used Pop Dots on the bear as well as a couple snowflakes that I had laying on my workstation that had been leftover from another project. They were die cut using the Spellbinder Create-a-Flake Three die set. I haven't added a sentiment yet because I'm not sure how I want to use this card. Time will tell!

Other Qualifying Challenges:

Paper Makeup Stamps: Digi Makeover - Winter Blues

Daisy Doodles Creative Challenge #51 - Anything Goes

Victorine Stamps - Anything Goes

I'd like to take a quick moment and thank ALL of you who stop by and an extra Thank You to those who take the time to leave me a comment. It interests me to hear what you think of my work.

Guess I'd better get dinner started!

Catch you later!

Hugs,

Darlene

Valentine, Christmas Stockings & SNOW

2012-01-21T19:28:00.001-05:00

Today's card was created so I could use my NEW Spellbinder Heart Circle dies. It actually started out as a get-well card but after making the bottom panel, I realized it would make a better Valentine card so covered over the center section of the circle with a "priscillastyles" digi image called "Love Birds" which I already had colored and ready to use.

Recipe:
Papers: Red cs, Paper Pizazz designer paper, White cs
Accessories: Spellbinder Heart Circle & Classic Circle dies, Martha Stewart heart border punch, Prismacolor markers, art glitter glue

Challenges:
Crafty Calendar Challenge - New News (Circle Hearts die + bow on image)
Drunken Stampers Challenge #81 - Love
My Sheri Crafts - New Things
Stamp, Scrap & Doodle Saturday - Have a Heart
Just Us Girls Challenge - Color Challenge - Red, Pink and White
Cardmadfairy's Digi Days - Ribbons & Bows (in the digi image-hope that counts)
The Poodles Parlour - Valentine
Simply Create Too - Love is in the Air
The Stamp Man Challenge - RED
Wags 'n Whiskers - Valentine/Love
Lily Pad - Photo Inspiration
Craft Us Crazy - Full of Love
Crafty Creations Challenge - Valentine Theme
Scrapbook Sisters - My Sweet Valentine
Alota Rubber Stamps - Hearts
CMIT Featured Designer Challenge - Valentine's Day
Crafter's Companion - Love is in the Air

* * * * *

My daughter and her family found an opening in their crazy busy schedules to make the drive over to our house today so the kids could get the goodies that were still in their Christmas Stockings here at Nana & Pappy's house. We take all their gifts to them on Christmas morning but they don't get their stocking until they come to visit. They always look forward to the fun goodies ... this year was no exception!

There are always WARM items as well as GOODIES in their stocking. Jon was busy helping his dad plow the driveway before they came to visit and said he could have really used this 'hat' this morning when he was shoveling. Morgan is always ready for more socks ..and PINK is always a good thing!

It was a very nice visit and when I heard they were coming, I quickly made a red raspberry/blackberry pie and put on a pot of coffee. YUMMY!

* * * * *

Here is how we ALL spent our morning ...

Yep,that's me outside playing in the snow!! We got a good 4" of snow overnight and I got the chance to make sure my snow blower was in good working order before any additional snow storms blow through this winter. I actually don't mind this job and Mark always buys me really good equipment. My snowblower is self-propelled, large enough to get through a deep, heavy snow and even has a reverse! All I have to do it guide it!! SURE BEATS SHOVELING!!!

Well, it's nearly time to 'call it a day' and spend some quality time with Mark.

It just might be time for another piece of that berry pie, Mmmmm!

Hope your having a wonderful, warm, safe weekend!

Hugs,

Darlene

More cards for Mom . . .

2012-01-20T14:44:00.000-05:00

I have altered this gold 'treasure chest' and am filling it with cards for my mom's birthday the end of the month. I can't show you the finished product yet because my friend Lana (Blest With Stamps) has the same gold box and we have CHALLENGED EACH OTHER in our altering method. She's not been feeling well (hang in there Lana) so doesn't have her's done yet ... so I will wait until she's had a chance to complete hers then I will share not only MY finished product ... but her's too! In the meantime, I've been busy making cards that I think my Mom would like to place inside ... here are a few more:

Paper: SU Groovy Guava cs, Graphic45 dp
Ink: Tiim Holtz tea dye distress, SU groovy guava, Versamark
Accessories: Sponges, Stampendous White embossing powder
Technique: Emboss Resist

Challenges:
The Perfect Sentiment - Emboss Resist
CropStop Challenge - A Bit Old You Said (distressing)
Delightful Challenge - Distressed / Vintage

Papers: Bright Pink cs, Mellow Moss cs, DCWV dp
Image: 'Women's Painting Vol. II' from the Nicecrane Designs Store

Accessories: Petaloo and Prima flowers, gold Stickles, Pink grosgrain ribbon

Challenges:
Colour Create Challenge - Pink & Green

Papers: white, pink, old olive cs ... SU designer paper
Image: 'Women's Painting Vol. II' from the Nicecrane Designs Store
Accessories: Cheery Lynn Designs B132 Flower Chain Border die, Prismacolor Marker for Faux Stitching, Zutter Distrezz-it-All
Technique: Faux Stitching

Challenges:
Clearly Inspired - Pastels
4 Crafty Chicks - Summer in January

Papers: DCWV dp, SU Pacific Point blue cs, white cs

Image: Crafty Secrets Creative Scraps ' Vintage Photos'

Accessories: Martha Stewart punches, Joann's flowers

Challenges:

Dilly Beans Designers & Challenge - Blues

Thanks so much for stopping by and letting me share my creations with you! If you're in the path of the 'clipper system' coming across ... filled with the 'white stuff' ... be careful out there and stay safe/warm. We supposed to get 4-6" of snow starting around dinner time and throughout the evening. Guess I'll be hiding out in my crafting cave! Oh Shucks!!

Happy Day All!

Hugs,

Darlene

Joan's Gardens Challenge

2012-01-19T17:08:00.003-05:00

WOW! What a fabulously challenging challenge Joan has over on her blog (Joan's Gardens) today! Here's a quick run down of the deets:

Use a door or window or something similar
Use an out door type of stamp
Use a flourish
Use either an embossing folder or embossing powder

Well ... since I have yet to order of those fancy doors/windows dies from Joan (my bad) ,,, I had to get creative and make my own. Here's what I came up with ...

I must admit ... I had a little help with this one! It just so happened that Shelly (Shelly's Images) and I were crafting via Skype today and she was guiding me through my 'window framing'. It is actually TWO layers (Shelly's idea) because after I had it together I said ... "dang, I wished I had embossed the frame before putting my photo behind it" ... to which Shelly said ... "so, make another one, emboss it and layer it over top"! DUH ... good idea ... THANKS SHELLY!

Recipe for this card:

Papers: Chocolate Chip cs, Garden Green cs, White cs

Stamps: Ala Art (sky), Stampscapes (trees, birds, sentiment)

Inks: Momento Bamboo Leaves, ColorBox Rose Coral,

TH Broken China & Stormy Sky

Accessories: Cheery Lynn Designs Fanciful Flourish, Cuttlebug EF,

Prima flowers, Stickles, Sponge Daubers

(items in red were purchased at Joan's Gardens)

This was a fun challenge and after dinner I'll pop back in to see if there are other challenges out there that this creation might qualify for. Right now, I'm headed upstairs to get dinner started. Hubby will probably be late ... IT IS SNOWING & BLOWING and I'm sure traffic will be a mess!

Thanks for stopping by. See you in a bit!

Okay I'm back! Hubby was late getting home due to the weather but he's safe & sound and I'm ready to link this creation up to other qualifying challenges with the help of Feline Playful.

Crafty Purple Frog Challenge - Anything Goes
Creative Belli Blog #13 - Frames
Anything Goes Challenge Blog - Anything Goes
Crafty Sentiments Designs - Anything Goes
Paperminutes - Anything Goes
Make My Monday - Create a Scene
There She Goes - Back to Nature

Hugs,

Darlene

Shelly's Images Challenge

2012-01-19T06:00:00.060-05:00

Hello Everyone!

Are you interested in some BLOG CANDY??

Well you'll want to be sure to pop over to SHELLY'S IMAGES and check out our 2nd Anniversary Blog Candy ... being offered through the end of the month and while you're there ... come join in today's challenge too! We have a really easy one for you this week!

SHOW US WHAT YOU GOT!

(Anything Goes)

This week we have a variety of FEATURED digi images to share with you at a REDUCED PRICE TODAY ONLY ... because Shelly has offered the team to have a 'Designer's Choice' week. That means savings for you! What ever images we (the team) decide to use will ALL be offered at a reduction today! How Awesome Is That!

I chose to use Shelly's BASKET image to create today.

I thought it would be fun to fill my basket with handmade flowers for someone special, who is always SO BUSY ... I'm afraid life is just going to pass her by!

My design is simple because I wanted all the focus to go to this

beautiful basket of flowers.

A team mate recently commented on how she was able to create some fun cards and use up SCRAPS at the same time. Well, that is what I've done here! The paper used for my flowers, leaves & design panels were all in my scrap bin.

Various Martha Stewart punches were used to create the flowers & leaves. And, I've used Diamond Stickles for all the flower centers.

I hope you'll join in our challenge fun and REMEMBER ... BLOG CANDY IS UP FOR GRABS ... check it out HERE!!

Have a wonderful day!
Hugs,
Darlene

SCS Challenges and a RECIPE . . .

2012-01-18T16:20:00.000-05:00

One of my New Year resolutions was to starting playing a few more of the challenges over on Splitcoast Stampers. Yesterday I entered TWO creations into the Try A New Technique Challenge which was to 'TWINE IT UP' ... using twine, cording, hemp, etc. in your creation. Here are the two cards I came up with . . .

This first card was actually inspired by one of the other girls challenge cards. I'm always looking for a design I can use for masculine cards and Theresa (SCS: theresaCC) had the design I was looking for. You can see her card and a great tutorial on her blog Crafting The Web.

This second card for the same challenge was based on this adorable Crafty Secrets Creative Scraps 'Vintage Photo's' image/sentiment. The designer paper is from the Prima 'Madaline' paper pack and the base & matting is an ivory linen cardstock. I made the flowers using a PunchBunch punch from the same ivory paper, sponged the edges using TH 'broken china' distress ink and curled the petals using the tweezers from my PunchBunch flower making kit. The 'twine' I used is actually 'waxed cording' from The Beadery Co. This was the last piece of blue cording I had and it worked perfectly.

The last card I have to share with you today is for today's SKETCH challenge at SCS. My vintage image is from a collage sheet called 'Women's Painting Vol. II' at the Nicecrane Designs Store. Designer paper is from Graphic45 and I have used Spellbinder classic ovals to showcase the image.

BEFORE I GO ...

I HAVE A RECIPE FOR YOU!

This is a simple to make ... great tasting dish!

Chicken Roll Ups

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Mozzarella Cheese (sticks or shredded)

Red Pepper Flakes

Zesty Italian Dressing

Italian Bread Crumbs

2 paper plates

2 sheets of waxed paper

meat pounder

Cut your chicken breast in half 'longwise' to make 2 'thinner' pieces from each breast.

Between waxed paper, pound your chicken breasts to make thinner.

Sprinkle chicken 'lightly' with pepper flakes, place cheese at one end and roll up.

Dredge first in Italian Dressing ... then in breadcrumbs

Place on foiled baking sheet - sprayed with Pam

Bake in 350 degree oven for 20-30 minutes.

DINNER'S READY!!!

Speaking of dinner ... hubby's due home in 10 minutes and tonight's Hot Sausage Spaghetti isn't prepared yet! YIKES ... better get off the computer and into the kitchen!

Have a great day/evening!

HUGS

Dar

PLAY DATE

2012-01-17T14:42:00.001-05:00

Today my friend Terri Snode & I decided to have a 'play date' ... YEAH!

We are both on The Sisterhood of Crafter's DT so while she's catching up with DT work, I'm playing other fun challenges I located on Feline Playful.

The first challenge I decided to play is for the Cards For Men Challenge Blog. Today's theme is "Boy's and their Toys". My first card utilizes TWO images from Cornish Heritage Farms ... a 1955 GMC Truck and a 1957 Family Bel Air. First I stamped the truck, masked it with Eclipse masking then stamped the 57 chevy. Kind of looks like they are crashing into each other ... but that's okay! LOL! The second card uses an image from the Crafty Secrets Creative Scraps sheet called 'Vintage Photos'.

Other qualifying challenges are:

Crafty Bloggers Network - Mono chrome

Crafty Cardmakers Challenge - No Floral Embellishment (using car/truck card)

Smudgy Antics - Masking

Stampalot Challenge - Monochromatic

Card Crafter's Circle #5 - Birthday

This adorable digi image from Shelly's Images was colored with chalks & Prismacolor markers for the White on White challenge at the Forever Friends Challenge Blog. My WHITE panels were created using a Sizzix EF, Spellbinder Lattice Rectangles, Cheery Lynn Designs B117 Fanciful Flourish and B133 Lace Light Deco Border. Little pearl centered satin bows from Joann's was used to embellish.

Other qualifying challenges:

Mark's Finest Papers #90 - Border Punches

Annabelle Stamps - Anything Goes

Crafty Catz - Something New (Cheery Lynn Designs Lacy Die)

Fairy Tale Challenge Blog - Something New (CLD dies)

Mami Doodles - White on White

So there you have it! This has been not only a FUN day ... but a very productive one too!!

Terri -16 cards

Dar - 3 cards and computer work! Jeeze!*@? LOL!

Happy Day Everyone!

Hugs,

Darlene

Birthday Blog Candy

2012-01-17T12:56:00.000-05:00

. . . at Shelly's Images!

That's right, beginning today, you will have a chance to win some awesome Birthday Blog Candy as well as a few other prizes Shelly is offering. Check this out!!

So, be sure to pop over to SHELLY'S IMAGES today for all the details.

And, don't forget to come back on Thursday for another fabulously fun challenge!

Hugs,

Darlene

Cheery Lynn Designs Challenge

2012-01-16T19:13:00.000-05:00

WOW! I can't believe I just stumbled upon the challenge at

Cheery Lynn Designs.

I got hooked on Cheery Lynn Designs dies after using them in a workshop at my friend Joan Fricker's (Joan's Gardens) a year or so ago. These dies are awesome! If you're not familiar with them, you really must give them a try ... then you'll be hooked just like me! LOL!!

Anyways, back to the challenge. This week it is "SNOWFLAKES".

I LOVED making this card because it gave me the opportunity to not only use my Cheery Lynn Designs DL175 Laced Pine Snowflake die ... but also my DL143 Ornamental Wreath & Bow and B136 Anastasia Border dies.

How much fun is it to use NEW CRAFTING GOODIES! My focus image also came from Joan's Gardens last fall and this was the first time I inked it up! I love vintage and this Old World Santa by LaBlanche seemed perfect for today's creation.

My image was stamped using Versafine Black ink onto white cardstock. I used a little loose chalk and makeup applicators to give him 'rosey' cheeks and also for the blue shadowing around the edge. My snowflakes were cut from DCWV blue sparkle paper and white cardstock. A scrap of green designer paper was used to cut out the wreath and red cs for the bow. Diamond Stickles was used to accent the edges of the white snowflake (hard to see in photo) as well as the bow.

Thanks for letting me share some of my new crafting goodies with you as well as this fun challenge. Wishing you a fabulous week with tons of time to PLAY!

Other qualifying challenges are:

Crafty Cardmaking Challenge - NO floral embellishments

Creative Stamp Friends - Winter

Hooked on Craft Challenge - Try something NEW (new dies & stamp)

House of Gilli - Winter

Lexi's Creations Challenge - Anything Goes

Make It Monday - Anything Goes

Stamp and Create - Anything Goes

Truly Madly Crafty Challenges - Anything Goes

Addicted to Stamps Challenge - Use the color Blue

Hugs,

Darlene

Do You Have Empty Cricut Cartridge Boxes?

2012-01-15T14:56:00.004-05:00

Happy Sunday Everyone!

Hubby's watching football and I'm still trying to get my house back in order from the holidays! I am happy to report . . . ALL Christmas decorations are packed & put away for another year!

After deciding I had made enough trips up & down the steps for one day, I took the time to PLAY in my cave for awhile! Now that I know how to use the Cricut my neighbor Christy gave me last year, my daughter decided a few new cartridges would be a good Christmas present for me (she was right) and also a large case to keep them in. That means now I have several EMPTY Cricut Boxes that the cartridges came in.

My friend, Lana (Blest With Stamps) got me on the 'Trash to Treasure' altering kick last summer (thanks girlfriend!) ... so now I can't throw anything away without first wondering how I might be able to 'repurpose' it. Well here's what I've come up with for the Cricut Boxes.

My FIRST attempt:

My SECOND attempt.

I'm really not sure what I'll be using these boxes for ... but I'll come up with something!

Any ideas??? ... I would love to hear your comments.

With the scraps from this last box, I decided to make a matching card.

This designer paper is one of my favorites ... Graphic45 - Le' Romantique

The flourish was created using the Cheery Lynn Designs 'Fanciful Flourish' die and gold metallic paper. The butterfly and doily lace border are both Martha Stewart punches. The flower was created with a PunchBunch flower punch and I've curled the edges using the tweezers from the PunchBunch flower making kit. I have punched both the flower & the butterfly also in black cardstock as a backing so that they'd show up better. Products used in this creation were purchased at Joan's Gardens ... be sure to pop over and check out all the goodies she has available in her store.

AND . . .

through my 'cleanup' here in the cave, I found this little 'precolored' gem of an image laying on my table under a mountain of other things and decided to make it into a card.

The image is one of eight that can be found on this collage sheet called 'Vintage Cute Kids' at the Nicecrane Designs Store.

Be sure to check out ALL of the amazing papers, digi images, collage sheet, etc. that Ignacio has available. I'm sure you'll find something you just can't live without!!

Okay ... I'm sure I've kept you long enough and should really get back to putting my house in order. THANKS SO MUCH for stopping by today and I hope you enjoy your upcoming week!

Let's enter a few other qualifying challenges:

Dream Valley Challenges - Anything Goes

Fashionable Stamping Challenge - Butterflies or Bugs

Gingerloft Challenge - Anything Goes

One Stitch At A Time - Anything Goes

PanPastel UK - Anything Goes

Scrappy Frog Challenge - Lace (Wilton Lace Doily)

Sentiment Sunday - Ribbon & Sentiment

Stampin' Sisters in Christ - Something New (K&Co 3d butterflies, Prima Ribbon Flower)

The Hybrid Chick - Card Caravan Challenge - Sparkle (Stickles & Pearls)
CES Challenge - Vintage Dahling
Crazy 4 Challenge - Monochromatic in Blue
Little Claire's Designs - Anything BUT a Card
Secret Crafter - Anything Goes with Blue
Bloggers Challenge - Wings and Things
Crafty Catz Weekly Challenge - Use Something New (K&Co. 3d butterflies, Prima Ribbon Flower)
Delicious Doodles - All Things New (K&Co. 3d butterflies, Prima Ribbon Flower)
Fairy Tale Challenge - Something New (K&Co. 3d butterflies, Prima Ribbon Flower)

Happy Crafting!

Hugs,

Darlene

I should be putting away Christmas ...

2012-01-12T14:21:00.000-05:00

. . . instead I'm playing challenges! YIKES ... don't tell hubby! LOL!!

We'll see how fast I can move after I post these fun creations! LOL ... I'm so bad!!

This week's challenge at Joan's Gardens is to

Create a Valentine in "non-traditional" colors
Use some kind of lace
Use a flower - rose if possible
Use a key - optional

Even though this looks like RED, it's actually Razzle Berry from Stampin' Up. Which is more of a RASPBERRY color and I've paired it with GOLD accents.

Items used on this creation are:

Papers: White cs, SU Razzle Berry cs, Gold Metallic

Ink: SU Razzle Berry, Delicata Golden Glitz

Accessories: Spellbinder Classic Hearts dies, Spellbinder Vintage Elements dies, Spellbinder Flowers dies, MS doily lace border punch, gold Stickles, Cuttlebug Hearts EF, Cheery Lynn Designs B117-Fanciful Flourish Die, pop dots

* * * * *

The other challenge I wanted to create for today is the

Sketch Challenge at SCS.

I've had this image stamped and laying on my worktable for weeks and decided to use it today for my creation. It is an Inkadinkado stamp and I've used Prisma Pencils & Gamsol for my coloring. The background paper is by DCWV and the gold metallic paper buttons were created using the Spellbinder Vintage Elements die.

I thought this would make a good 'masculine' card for either a birthday or maybe for someone who just got out of the hospital ... or retired. Masculine cards are always difficult ... and I seem to get a lot of requests for them! So here's one more to add to my stash. What do you think??

So there you have it ...

My crafting time is over for today ... I'd better get back to all those lovely Santa's I need to repack and store away for another year. Thanks so much for visiting me today! We're expecting a snow storm over night ... so maybe I'll have more time to 'PLAY' tomorrow!?!

Stay warm & safe if you're in the path of this incoming storm!!

Hugs,

Darlene

Shelly's Images Challenge

2012-01-12T06:00:00.023-05:00

WOW! What a fun challenge we have for you at Shelly's Images today!!

It's called "ROLL 'EM" ... here's a clue ...
Random Number Generator is involved! LOL!!

The numbers I rolled are:

7 (ink/mist/paint) ... 5 (distressing) ... 1 (torn or punched edge)

You can find the list of items that coordinate with the numbers on our challenge blog.

From my three items & our featured digi image, here's the card I created.

Isn't he just the cutest little bear!!??!!

Recipe:

Papers: White cardstock, Green cardstock, FROST designer paper from Wubie Prints

Stamps: Shelly's Images 'Snow Beary' digi stamp, Repeat Impressions sentiment stamp

Inks: Tim Holtz Tea Die distress ink (for distressing)

Accessories: Zutter Distrezz-it-All distresser, MS icicle border punch, Deco Art Glamour Dust, Sakura Quickie Glue Pen, Sizzix Snowflake #15 die, Prismacolor markers, Tattered Angel Glimmer Mist Denim Blue,

This was such a fun TWIST on a recipe challenge! I just might have to create another card using this method! It certainly helps take some of the guess work out of 'what to use'! Hope you'll come join us at Shelly's Images and the DT has offered some AWESOME INSPIRATION for you. You'll want to be sure and pop over!!

Wishing you a Happy and Fun day ... whatever you might be doing!

Hugs,

Darlene

SCS 'Try A New Technique' Challenge

2012-01-11T18:31:00.001-05:00

This week's TRY A NEW TECHNIQUE challenge over on Splitcoast Stampers is called 'The Best of 2011". Judy is our hostess and she has asked us to backtrack through the TLC challenges of 2011 and pick out one (or more) of last years challenge themes to make our creations.

I chose TLC303 - Sponging

TLC304 - Faux Stitching
and

TLC352 - Make It Snow

The stamp I used for my focus image is STAMPSCAPES, Trio of Trees. I stamped it onto light blue cardstock with Versafine 'Majestic Blue' ink. Then using a white Signo pen, put streaks of SNOW on the twigs & sides of the trees.

Snowflakes from Inkadinkado were stamped in white dye ink and a little of the same ink was sponged light across the images to appear as 'blowing snow'.

My background paper was created by stamping the same snowflake stamps onto white paper with Versamark and sponging over top & around the edges with Tim Holtz 'Faded Jeans' distress ink.

The faux stitching was done with the same white Signo pen as I used for the snow on the trees. The large snowflake was made with fun foam and using the Spellbinder Snowflake dies. Silver Stickles was used for the sparkly center.

What a fun challenge! I'm so glad I popped over to check it out and then played along!

Their sketch challenge came up today so hopefully I'll have that done & ready to share later in the week.

Now I really MUST get some of these Christmas decorations put away ... I've been procrastinating all day!! LOL!!

Please stop back tomorrow for a VERY UNIQUE & FUN CHALLENGE IDEA from Shelly's Images! I think you're going to really like this one! I know I sure did!!

Hugs,

Darlene

The Sisterhood of Crafter's Challenge

2012-01-11T06:00:00.056-05:00

Hello Everyone!

Since we are in the month of January and the snow if flying here in N.E. Ohio ... what better challenge theme to have today at The Sisterhood than . . .

LET IT SNOW

(make a Winter card/project)

As I was doing my 'after holidays clean up' in my crafting cave, I came upon these three images laying on my work table so for your inspiration today, I not only made ONE card ... but I made THREE! LOL!

My image stamp is by Inkadinkado. After stamping it onto white cs with Versafine black ink, I used Prisma Pencils and Gamsol to color in this love scene. Sparkle was added to the tree & roof using Quickie Glue and Deco Art Glamour Dust. Blue chalk was added using a makeup applicator to create the sky.

This precious bird image comes from a collage sheet called "Christmas Birds" found HERE at Nicecrane Designs. The background paper is from a DCWV 'Winter' Mat Stack and the snow flakes & icicle border are Martha Stewart punches. Diamond Stickles was added for sparkle.

This image was created using the "Snowy Background Technique" that I learned from Selma Stevenson. Again I used Martha Stewart punches to create the snowflakes and icicle border. Added a sentiment and Viola! Card complete!

We would LOVE to see what you create with this fun challenge theme.

I'll be watching for your entry over at The Sisterhood of Crafter's and then I'll stop by and leave you some love on your creation at your blog!

Other Qualifying Challenges:
Crazy Amigo Challenge - Winter Colors
Creative Card Crew - Snow Days
Scrap Creations - Glitter
Top Tip Tuesday - Anything Goes
Tuesday Throwdown - Baby It's Cold Outside
The Cheerful Stamp Pad - Let it Snow
Creative Stamp Friends - Winter

HUGS,

Darlene

HOORAY! I'm so thrilled . . .

2012-01-09T17:50:00.002-05:00

What a wonderful email I received today from

Michael Nelsen

Blogger & Editor

Michael.Nelsen@become.com

letting me know that MY blog had been chosen as

at Craft Corner's.
If you get a moment, pop over and check out some of the awesome projects they have to share with us!

Mr. Nelsen's kind words about my blog and my work certainly MADE MY DAY!

As much as I LOVE crafting and that is the reason I do it, how wonderful is it to know that your work is appreciated by others and even inspirational to some!

Thanks for letting me share my excitement with you today!

Hugs,

Darlene

It's been so long ...

2012-01-06T14:23:00.000-05:00

. . . since I played the challenges over at Splitcoast Stampers. Well, one of my New Year's resolutions is to get more involved back at SCS where my cardmaking began and flourished.

This card was made for the Wednesday's Sketch Challenge AND the Thursday 'Ways To Use It' challenge.

Recipe:
Papers: Groovy Guava cs, SU dp, Cream cs
Stamp: Crafty Secrets 'Garden Girls' sentiment stamp
Inks: Versafine Black
Accessories: Vintage image from Nicecrane Designs collage sheet called 'Women's Vintage Fashion', PunchBunch flower punch, McGill foam mat, PunchBunch flower making kit, MS doily border punch

What are you hoping to get back to in 2012??

Besides the usual 'lose weight' & more exercise routine ...

I'd also like to make more time for my family and friends!

Wishing you love & happiness today!

Hugs,

Darlene

Wags 'n Whiskers Challenge #70

2012-01-06T07:20:00.001-05:00

It's a new year at Wags 'n Whiskers and even though I am no longer on the team, this challenge was moved out of 2011 & into 2012 and I already had my card ready! So ... I have one more chance to be a part of this fun design team! Today's challenge is:

WHITE ON WHITE

(+ One other Color)

I chose the color GREEN and believe it or not, all the green on my card is the SAME SHADE although it sure doesn't look like it in my photo! I really should read the book that came with my camera and this might not happen! LOL! This adorable image is called "Zoe and Gemma's Snow Fun" and you can find/purchase it HERE.

Recipe:
Papers: White cardstock, Green cardstock
Accessories: Prismacolor markers, Deco Art Glamour Dust, Quickie Glue, Green organza ribbon, Sizzix snowflake embossing folder

HUGS,
Darlene

Challenge Fun!

2012-01-05T11:54:00.001-05:00

It feels SO GOOD to be back playing the challenges!

Today I scoped out some of challenge over on Feline Playful that caught my eye and this is what I came up with.

The SKETCH comes from the challenge over at Try Stampin' On Tuesday. Other elements of this card came from the following challenges:

Joan's Gardens - use hearts, red/pink & white, embossing, embellishment

Perfect Sentiment - Valentine Sentiment & Vellum

Color Create - Red, Cream, Sage Green

The Paper Shelter - Anything Goes

Bearly-Mine - Anything Goes

Crafty Sentiment - Love & Romance

My Time to Craft Challenge - XOXO Hugs & Kisses

Stampavie and more #159 - Hearts

Delightful Challenges - Hearts

Well, now that I've had some challenge fun, guess I should go do a little work around the house! LOL!

Laundry is starting to pile up and I promised hubby stuffed peppers for dinner!

Better get busy!

** EDIT ** My work is done and I have a few minutes and decided to create a second card for Joan's challenge. (It just felt good to create today ... guess the mojo is fired up for 2012...LOL)

Now I can relax with hubby for an evening of TV and conversation!

Hugs,

Darlene

Shelly's Images Challenge

2012-01-05T06:00:00.034-05:00

With another New Year upon us, today at Shelly's Images we are OUT with the OLD and IN with the NEW!

The challenge is to use SOMETHING NEW (less than a month old)

on your card/project.

Our FEATURED image today is the "Snow Man Set" which can be purchased TODAY ONLY at a reduced price ... after today it will be in the STORE at the regular price.

The NEW item I have used on my card today is the Sizzix Snowflake #15 Die set. I die cut it from white paper, distressed it with Tim Holtz Broken China distress ink then used Quickie Glue and Deco Art Glamour Dust for added snowflake sparkle!

Coloring was done with Prismacolor markers and sparkle was also added to the snowflakes in Shelly's image in the same manner as the die cut snowflake.

I look forward to seeing what you create with your NEW stuff! Hope Santa was good to you ... I sure love the crafting goodies he brought me!!

Other challenges this creation fits:

Cute Card Thursday - Something New

Little Miss Muffet Challenge - Something New

Dare to be Sassy - Something New ( Snowflake Die )

Digistamps4Joy - Anything Goes (Something Old - dp, Something New-snowflake die)

Fab 'n Funky Challenge - Something New

Fresh Brewed Challenge - Something New

My Mum's Craft Shop Challenge - Something New

Simon Says Stamp Challenge - Something New

Scrap-Creations - Something Old (dp), Something New (snowflake die)

Ladybug Crafts, Ink TLT challenge - Anything Goes using your New Stash
Creative Belli Blog - Snowflakes
Little Darlings Challenge - Cold
Crazy Amigo Challenge - Winter
Creative Card Crew #1 - Snow Day
Digital Tuesday Challenge - Winter Wonderland
Everybody Art Challenge - Snow

Hugs,

Darlene

Vintage Kids

2012-01-03T14:35:00.001-05:00

I recently received this Collage Sheet from Ignacio at Nicecrane Designs and couldn't wait to create with these cute images. I haven't decided if I want to make these creations into a 'SET' for sell at my next craft show or, just show them individually. Heck, I might just keep them for myself they are so cute!

The collage sheet is titled "Vintage Cute Kids"

I have used the sketch from the current challenge at Perfect Sentiments Challenge and the sentiment is from a Hero Arts stamp set. Design paper is from My Mind's Eye - Lime Twist and the border is a Martha Stewart punch.

The design on this card is a variation on that same challenge sketch at Perfect Sentiments Challenges. For the challenge you need to use THANK YOU ... but I thought this Hero Arts sentiment worked better with this image.

The background for this card was made using the Sizzix (TH) brickwall embossing folder on white paper then sponging over it using TH Peeled Paint and Frayed Burlap distress inks.

I'm NOT an animal lover ... but how cute is this little kitty!

I thought this scrap of dp matched great with the flowers on her #5. Sorry, don't remember the mfg. possibly K&Co. It's a 2 sided paper. A combination of paper flowers & prima flowers ... along with the MS leaf punch created the embellishment.

I actually had this base card w/MS vine border laying on my worktable from sometime through the holidays. I simply added the image, sentiment & MS butterfly. Quick & Easy.

Last by not least ... how adorable is this little couple??

'Water' dp from JoAnn's makes the perfect backdrop for these cuties. I just HAD to use the Morex Corp. Sweet Petites polka dot ribbon (which matches her little swim suit) as my accent. The dolphin stickers came in a $1 beach pack from JoAnn's (had them for years) and my sentiment if from the See D's stamp set called Fun In The Sun.

There are actually eight (8) images on these collage sheets to create with and they are pre-colored (that's a time saver in itself). Pop on over to Nicecrane Designs and check out all the fun & unique images, collage sheets, designer paper, etc. that Ignacio has available.

Qualifying Challenges:

Perfect Sentiments Challenge - Thank You w/sketch

Card Crafter's Circle Challenge - Anything Goes

Clearly iStamp - Birthday

Fairy Tale Challenge - Something Easy

Fussy and Fancy Friday - Animal - Birthday

Hugs,

Darlene

Let the 2012 FUN BEGIN . . .

2012-01-01T06:00:00.040-05:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

There's a NEW CHALLENGE in town for the NEW YEAR and Shelly's Images will be the proud sponsor of this challenge on the first Sunday of every month. Each month a couple of the Shelly's Images DT members will help to showcase the sketch with a creation using a Bugaboo image. Let's get started!

The challenge is called STELLA SAYS SKETCH and here is the first sketch:

Here is my creation using the Bugaboo Flower Water Cans - Flower Can digi image:

Please come join in our fun!!!

Hugs,

Darlene

2012-01-01T00:28:00.000-05:00

Mark & I wish each of you ALL THE BEST in 2012!

Where did 2011 go???

2011-12-31T11:15:00.001-05:00

I can hardly believe that another year is coming to a close!

2011 has it's ups & downs ... but I'm happy to say MORE UPS then DOWNS!!

One of the UPs is that Mark remains cancer-free (almost 3 years) and if all goes well with his last Pet Scan on Jan. 3rd, he will be retiring and we can hopefully do some traveling and enjoy our 'golden' years together.

One of the DOWNs was the loss of family members and friends.

Nephew - Danny Moyer

Aunt - Glory Ostanoski

Mother-in Law - Claire Pavlick

Mother of friend Joan Fricker - Ruby Salyer

It was the thank-you note card I received from Joan Fricker (Joan's Gardens) for attending her Mom's funeral that prompted my card making today. Joan & I have become wonderful friends through stamping and although she is a 5 hour drive away, I try to attend all her workshops and stay a few extra days to visit with her & family.

The front of the notecard was a Thomas Kinkade scene and I thought it was so pretty I didn't want to throw it away ... so why not turn it into ANOTHER card creation ... and that's exactly what I've done here.

I distressed the edges, matted it in black and added an organza black ribbon. Since I have a few TK stamps I thought it would be nice to use one on the inside as a backdrop to the sentiment.

Thanks for taking the time to stop by my blog and leaving me such kind words!

I can't express to you how much it means to me!!

WISHING YOU ALL THE BEST IN 2012!!!

GOD BLESS YOU!

Dar

Shelly's Images Challenge

2011-12-29T06:00:00.001-05:00

Morning Everyone!

It's hard to believe that Christmas is over and a New Year is about to begin! WOW! Where is the time going? I want to THANK each and everyone one of you who stops by my blog ... it truly puts a smile on my face every time you visit! Thanks for all your support!

NOW ... on to today's challenge at Shelly's Images!

With the New Year upon us, Shelly has created this wonderful digi image called

SPECIAL TOAST SET and it is available at a reduced price . . . TODAY ONLY!

Isn't it fabulous ... this digi could be used for so many occasions!!

AND ... Today's Challenge is:

COLORS - BLACK, SILVER & ONE OTHER COLOR + BLING

I must admit, in my haste I missed the fact that we were doing a COLOR CHALLENGE and didn't use the appropriate colors scheme ... BUT ... I did use this set in two different ways and would like to share that inspiration with you!

Here I've created a New Years card to send to my friends in Toledo, Ohio.

And here I've created an Anniversary card to add to my 'Stash'.

I hope you'll come join us at SHELLY'S IMAGES for another fun challenge.

See You There!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Hugs,

Darlene

The Sisterhood of Crafters Challenge

2011-12-28T06:00:00.036-05:00

It's the LAST challenge for the year at The Sisterhood of Crafters and we'd love to have you come join in our fun! Today's challenge is an easy one ...

BLACK / WHITE + one other color

I got very ambitious and made not just one sample card, but THREE ... using three different accent colors.

The background paper for these two creations is the Black & White Pack from GinaK.

The images on these two creations are from Nicecrane Designs.

I hope you'll come join us for this fun challenge.

Hugs,

Darlene

WOW What a FABULOUS Christmas!

2011-12-26T10:42:00.000-05:00

Happy Day After Christmas Everyone!

I hope your Christmas was as blessed as ours was!

It started early with a drive to the kids house (1 hour away) for breakfast and gift exchange. Although the grandkids are getting older (19 & 14) ... Christmas morning is still a LOT OF FUN! Daughter, Carolyn always makes sure the house smells good with something yummy in the oven, Son-in-Law, Frank always has a nice cozy fire going in the fireplace and even though he wasn't feeling very well this year ... he was a real trooper and helped make Christmas morning a memorable one!

Would you like to see some of the 'highlights'?

Morgan got lots of PINK (and black) clothes as well as her BIG gift which was a wireless printer (which will help with her college school work) from her parents. The little doggie on her lap is something I bought her ... it reminded her of their family dog, Josie, whom they lost a couple of years ago and miss terribly!

Frank is in the process (as finances allow) of building a big garage so he can do his mechanic work for himself out of his own garage. Mark built this 'garage' out of Home Depot gift cards to help in the project.

As I have shared before, Mark is an EXCELLENT cook and his old Better Homes & Gardens (his favorite) cookbook is in PIECES so the kids thought it was time for a new one!

This was one of my gifts to Mark. NO HE'S NOT REAL!

I am not an animal lover but Mark is and this way we can have the best of both worlds.

He's called the "Perfect Pet" ... yep, no fuss no muss!

How great is this! Carolyn's BIG gift was this new kayak & all the necessary equipment to go with it. Her family really surprised her with this beauty!! Now she can go kayaking in style with her friend, Theresa!

Jonathan's BIG gift was this dirt bike! Good thing they gave it to him LAST ...

He couldn't move fast enough to get his shoes & coat on and take it for a spin around the back yard!

CJ (Mo's boyfriend) bought all the guys Helicopters! What fun! They were all flying them around the livingroom at the same time ... I think it would have been safer to take them OUTDOORS!! LOL!

And, last by not least, here are a few of MY goodies.

Mark got me the Vagabond I've been talking about all year and the kids got me a Cricut storage box and a couple new Cricut cartridges. I love new crafting toys and I can't wait to start using these little goodies!!

What did Santa bring you??

Leave me a comment with a link to your blog post

and I'll pop right over to see & comment!

The little girls from next door are coming over this evening! They are age 7 & 9 and always so excited about their Christmas adventures. I can't wait to hear what they've been up to! I know they had tickets to the 'Polar Express' (real train) in Cleveland and I can't wait to hear all about it!

Happy Day Everyone!

HUGS

Darlene

2011-12-25T05:00:00.031-05:00