UmWowStudio

Vintage Valentine

2012-02-10T20:53:00.000-07:00

Not sure where the mixup happened.. but tomorrow my Vintage Valentine will be posted on the May Arts blog.

here it is early:

Kiss Me ♥ - new challenges @ CropChocolate!

2012-02-02T16:59:00.000-07:00

CropChocolate.com has started new challenges! One challenge a week *Every wednesday* where the winner will get $10 in CropCredit.. at the end of the month all entries go into a larger drawing for $50!!

AWESOME.

Here's my first challenge submission:

a 3inch by 5inch tag featuring Basic Grey's Kraft 6x6 and MyMindsEye's LnF Market Street 6x6 for paper, and walnut stain distress ink from CC. Other supplies include vintage lace, a half pearl, a brown pen, adhesive, and baker's twine.

Love cast in clay!! (A blog hop)

2012-01-31T22:00:00.000-07:00

Hello!! Welcome to my stop on the LOVE CAST IN CLAY hop!! Amazing Mold Putty and Creative Paperclay® Have teamed to bring you this fabulous blog hop!!

There are two prizes available.. worth $25!! One on the AMP blog and one on the Creative Paperclay® blog -- you must comment on EVERY stop and become a follower of every stop to be eligible for the win!

Here is a list of the blogs in case you've become lost along the way:

And here is my project:

I fell in love with this mini cameo and just had to use it! I cast the original in Amazing Molding Putty. When my mold was cured, I demolded the original and dusted the inside of the mold with Alumilite's Pearl dust. I then molded the piece out of the Air Dry Paperclay®. After a full 24 hours (to be sure it was dry) I took my piece out of the mold and brushed with a Martha stewart chocolate brown glaze. Before it had a chance to dry I wiped the piece with a wet cloth to take off the excess glaze!

Other products used: Teresa Collins paper, cardstock, MME cardstock, walnut stain distress ink, baker's twine, muslin and hot glue.

Thanks so much for stopping by!!! Your next blog is that of Debbie Buckland!

12x12 - The Two of Us

2012-01-30T07:22:00.001-07:00

Year 2008 for my commission :)

products used: KnCO paper, EP alpha stickers, AC pearl brads, distress inks, burlap, eyelents, KnCO rhinestones, Pink paislee wood alphas, photo corners, faux stamen, pearls, don juan cricut cartridge

12x12 The Bostons

2012-01-28T21:28:00.002-07:00

Here is another page I did for that recent (sort of.. time got away from me) commissioned set of pages! I don't have any clue why I'm not showing them in order, lol.

this was based off of the DCWV stackaholic template a couple months ago!

Supplies used: DCWV Luxury stack, American Crafts brads, rhinestones, Cricut cartridge (can't remember right now), a white feather, my sewing machine and adhesive!

12x12 "Quite the pair"

2012-01-26T15:51:00.001-07:00

(If you're looking for the CropChocolate blog hop please scroll down!!)

This layout was done for a gal who commissioned 6 layouts for her album.. she does yearly photos of her and her husband. I'll show them one at a time throughout the next few days.

Products used:

BoBunny Gabrielle paper, Bobunny Gabrielle chipboard adhesive pieces, Art Blanche alphas, vintage buttons, vintage lace, baker's twine, Heritage cricut cartridge, recycled chipboard, vintage photo distress stain, embossing folder, Martha Stewart butterfly punch.

I got the inspiration from this partly from a page I did previously.. but more from the BoBunny inspiration for the Layout Challenge this month.. I took inspiration from the divided window, the turquoise tan and coral colors, and the banner which I ended up turning into a line of rolled paper pieces.

Looks like I missed the link up so I'll just post on their FB page :)

Blog Hop with the Chocolatiers!!

2012-01-26T00:00:00.000-07:00

We're doing a LOVE Blog hop to help our February projects get off to a great start @ CropChocolate!!

Hop all stops, leave comments and be entered to win 2 Kits from WeScrap!
(if you follow through to the end you'll also be magically transported to the WeScrap blog hop where there are FOUR $25 CropChocolate CropCredit vouchers available!!!)

Here's my project!

This project features the Love Me Do collection by MyMind'sEye!! it was a STEAL @ CC prices!! It also has double dot by BoBunny and uses distress stains and a fancy pants stamp set.

Now you're on your way to MICHELE!

@VLVS! today

2012-01-25T09:00:00.000-07:00

I did a video on how to make washi tape.. and then I made a card from it :)

check it out at VLVS! ♥♥

Brand new TSC collections!

2012-01-21T07:00:00.002-07:00

absolutely beautiful collections!

I Love CHA

2012-01-19T16:09:00.001-07:00

because of all the new releases!!

Check out FRENCH KISS by Glitz!

Time to play!

2012-01-16T12:40:00.001-07:00

I've been doing so much "NEED" to get it done stuff that I'm going to take a break and do some stuff I WANT to do today :D stay on the lookout!

@ VLVS! Today

2012-01-11T08:50:00.002-07:00

Posted this tag @ VLVS! Today .. I've been admiring tons of minimalist and single color works by other crafters..

Click here for details

oh where it will lead you...

2012-01-09T13:31:00.000-07:00

I started following this amazing crafter "Finnabair" .. her work is just stunning.. I literally could look through her gallery for hours on hours..

then I saw that she has designed some papers..

so I followed her to 7dotstudio

where I found out she has just designed ANOTHER line...

Here is my favorite piece from that line:

isn't it gorgeous? It just screams "ALTER ME!!"

Check out Finnabair HERE

and 7dotstudio HERE

Golden Years! Whop Whop Whop

2012-01-09T08:20:00.000-07:00

I've been channeling David Bowie and his greatness since I was about 8 years old..

January's theme for the CropChocolate Design Team was to use a song as inspiration.. I grabbed my favorite Bowie CD and got to contemplating..

This card may not /seem/ david bowie-esque but it was definitely inspired by the idea of "Golden Years"

Check out all the details on TheCrop

P.S. -- I always feel very justified in saying that I do NOT own the TH rosette die -- I make all of mine by hand ;)

DIY-er

2012-01-07T19:09:00.001-07:00

Along with paper crafting, embellishment making, and altering pieces... I am and always will be a "DIY-er"

and lately I've been eyeballing all these blogs where gals are refinishing furniture and painting walls.. I've decided this spring is going to be the spring of "get off your ass and get it done!"

I want to:
Finish the red wall - I want to paint while cherry blossoms or something similar on it and hang lots of different white frames
reupholster the couch - I'm thinking white..
paint the kitchen table - again.. white but distressed
redo the kitchen chairs - white to match the table and distressed, too.. but maybe a black cushion cover or black and white patterned
paint the tv stand - white - distressed - black drawer
"upscale" our bookshelves - they're cheap and black.. I'm thinking getting crown molding to outline them and make them look sturdier and nicer!

I think over the next couple of days I'll gather inspiration photos

CHA Bound! Owl

2012-01-02T12:46:00.001-07:00

and if we chose.. we could send more than one project!!

here's the 2nd :D

The owl was molded in putty and cast in the quick white resin.. but I added brown alumilite dye to the resin. After it was cure I dry brushed it in white acrylic paint and went over the dry brushing with Rusty hing distress stain.

Other products used: KnCo paper, vintage photo distress ink, walnut stain distress ink, American crafts brad, bakers twine, brown ribbon, recycled cardboard, Spellbinders die labels four

linked up to:
http://simonsaysstampschallenge.blogspot.com/

CHA bound! Wish Upon a Star

2012-01-02T12:39:00.000-07:00

I was so thankful to get on the AMP design team.. and now I am just beyond speechless.. our fearless leader Terri Sproul has arranged for us to have pieces of work in the AMP booth at CHA!

AHHHHHHHH!

SO FRIGGIN PUMPED!

Here is one of the pieces I'll have there!!

The cabochons and the dress form were molded from original pieces with putty, and cast in the quick set white resin.. the turquoise pieces were colored with alcohol ink :)

Other products: KnCo paper, FP paper, TH labels die, BoBunny brads, KnCo half pearls, paper doily, studio G stamps, Pink Paislee daily junque wooden letters, recycled cardboard packaging, vintage photo distress ink, walnut stain distress ink, faux stamen, baker's twine.

I'd also like to say thank you and welcome to all my new followers!! So glad to have you here :D

linked up to:
http://simonsaysstampschallenge.blogspot.com/

New Years Blog Hop with VLVS!!!

2011-12-31T22:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome welcome WELCOME!!

Glad to have you all here =D

Today we're hopping along the VLVS! Design team's blogs with some wonderful New Years inspiration -- all utilizing VLVS! Stamps!!

What's more..?? See each piece.. follow the blogs.. and leave a comment for a chance @ $15 to the VLVS! Online store!! There is one on EACH BLOG! and a GRAND PRIZE of $25 on the VLVS! Blog!!!

--please leave a comment here by Wednesday the 4th midnight mountain time to be in the running for my giveaway!! I will announce the winner the following Sunday--

Here is the blog order in case you've become lost along the way:

VLVS! - Started here!

Terri Sproul

Susan Brown

DeeDee Catron You are here!!

And without further ado here is the piece I have to show off today!!

The two stamps I chose to use on this piece are

The Victorian balloon

and the Eastern Skyline

I stamped both images onto white cardstock in Memento Black ink, did a small bit of fussy cutting (not very detailed) and pulled out a white base tag. I inked the tag with Broken china distress stain and embossed with a TH folder. Then I sponged with Vintage photo distress ink and swiped my walnut stain ink pad over the raised portions. I grabbed some pop dots and put my beautiful stamped images in place. I used miracle tape to stick my hand written banners in place. I then placed some fun little half pearls at the bottom and grabbed some photo corners to finish off this baby!

I am so loving tucking tags into these library envelopes (available at VLVS! here).. this one I left pretty simple.. but I do want to point out the grungeboard letters.. I misted them with Stewart Superior Memories Mist in Sparkling Silver. and I inked the edges of the envelope with the same Memento black used to stamp the images!

Thanks so much for stopping by! Remember... become a follower and leave a comment for a chance @ some new stamps! YOUR CHOICE!

Now you're onto JOE'S BLOG!!!

Happy Hopping stampers! -DeeDee

@VLVS! Today :)

2011-12-28T08:00:00.000-07:00

I've got this piece over @ The VLVS! Blog today:

check out all the details HERE

My favorite TEN

2011-12-26T07:19:00.000-07:00

I've seen a couple of "My favorite of 2011" projects.. and even though I have a couple of days left to craft.. I'll share my favorite up this point :) I feel like all of these really show the "style" that I strive to give all my pieces. They've all taken hours of sweat and tears but I've loved every minute of it!

may arts submission for Deck the halls in Burlap challenge

Spellbinders DT Application.. LOVE this piece!

This card came about for a challenge as well.. that I ended up dropping out of.

This got me 1st place in the Graphic45 altered challenge.. Gave this to my FIL for Christmas yesterday.. it has a nice new shiny spot on the wall in their living room ♥♥

Did this for a SSSnS challenge -- this tag is definitely one of my favorite

Steampunk takes me so long to do that once it's done I just HAVE to love it!

One of my favorite layouts.. I got be pretty "ArtsyFartsy" with it and love that subject ;)

This card felt super inspirational and I just love how it turned out!

Sultry Sexy tag in black and red

This set of tags hangs in my living room.. regardless of the season :)

And this card was just so cute in the end!

Hope you love the recap!!

WHOP WHOP WHOP

2011-12-23T14:09:00.000-07:00

Chocolatiers Sneak Peek!!

Next month the projects we worked on had to be inspired by a song..

I love David Bowie so much..

"... In These Golden YEEEAAAARS"

"Whop whop whop!!"

... Instead

2011-12-17T09:23:00.002-07:00

I have lots and lots of commitments to take care of today and tomorrow..

... but instead I'm working on my Christmas "Mantle" =D

May arts post is up!

2011-12-16T18:57:00.001-07:00

That challenge is seriously full of GORGEOUS pieces using May Arts burlap ribbon -- go check it out!!

http://www.mayarts.com/blog/deck-the-halls-with-burlap-entries-a-giveaway/

You're also entered into a GIVEAWAY from Graphic45 just for voting!

May Arts Submission -- a Gorgeous VLVS! Tag

2011-12-16T08:30:00.000-07:00

Hey everybody!!

May Arts does some cool monthly challenges where the first 25 people to sign up are sent some scraps of 4 ribbons.. and it's your job to use all four on a project! here is my submission for the contest =D

it's a Library pocket/Christmas card hybrid.. the tag pulls out of the ticket with space for a hand written message, and any type of photos or ephemera can be tucked into the pocket to accompany the message!

Voting will go live later today on the blog -- be sure to check it out :)

http://www.mayarts.com/blog/

Products Used: Distress Inks (Peeled Paint, Barn Door, Walnut Stain) MME Union Square Paper, VLVS! Santa Stamp, VLVS! Ultra High Gloss EP, VLVS! Library Tag, May Arts Burlap ribbons, Glitter Glue, vintage buttons, found leaves

REJECTED...

2011-12-14T14:57:00.001-07:00

Bwahaha.. oh well! I tried out for the Spellbinders DT -- Had great confidence.. and got shot down. but it happens, eh?

So here I go.. showing my piece to you :)

As the challenge @ SimonSaysStamp n Show is Thru' the looking glass I'll be linking up there :)

List of supplies:

base tray, 7gypsies Notting Hill script stamp, SB labels four and lacey circles, walnut stain distress ink, vintage photo distress ink, broken china distress ink, pine needles distress ink, glitter glue, double dot paper by bobunny, my minds eye union square paper, 7gypsies bottle, 7gypsies recycled packaging, glitter snowflake diecuts, Bobunny brad, Heritage cricut cartridge, pinecone, KnCo pearls, faux stamen, wooden spools, Amazing Mold Putty White Resin, found christmas ornament, mini tinsel, vintage buttons, baker's twine, cheesecloth, ribbon, rhinestones, a doily, plastic netting, beaded pearls..

Another! (shorter!!) Blog hop with VLVS! coming near you!

2011-12-13T10:55:00.000-07:00

We've got a Blog Hop coming up on NEW YEARS! (much shorter than our 12 tags one!)

be prepared for some fabulously inspired projects from the VLVS! team --- as well as TONS of prizes! each stop along the way will be giving away a $15 prize to the shop.. as well as one grand prize winner, who will get $25!

We'll start at the Viva Las Vegastamps! Blog this time around :)

so be there the 1st!!

You won't want to miss this.. they've got some of the most amazing rubber.. and for all tastes, too! The miracle tape is to die for.. and the ultra high gloss embossing powder is so dreamy. Can't wait to share what I've been working on!

Imaginarium Design Team Application

2011-12-12T17:00:00.000-07:00

--reposting this for the 12th and 13th to be at the top!!--

I LOVE chipboard.. I love altering it, applying it in new ways, misting over it, using it as a mask, making embellishments with it... I could go on and on... and I especially love IMAGINARIUM DESIGNS chipboard --- I'm super impressed by the designs that this team has imagined up.. and I'm also impressed with their unique grungy sort of messy branding style. AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAND --- they're having a design team call!! So along with the application that I sent in, here are ten of my favorite projects featuring any chipboard for the powers that be to see :D

1) - a classy kind of vintage chic inspired card made for a gal

who knitted a beautiful blanket for our dear baby boy. The chipboard is inked with

a distress ink by foam application.

2) - TimHoltz inspired Christmas tag. The chipboard was embossed

with clear ink and red distress embossing powder.

3) - A set of LOVE tags that hang on a wire in our living room.

The chipboard was peeled in half to reveal the "softer" inside, wetted

with water, embossed with a folder and distressed with antique linen

distress stain.

4) - a very sultry sexy inspired tag. In this piece I designed the chipboard

which I sent to a local laser cutter. When I got the raw piece back, I embossed

it with smooth black embossing powder and ran it through a texture folder.

5) - A steampunky tag. The chipboard on this piece is stamped and

hand cut to match the stamp. it started as a square piece of board. The 2nd

piece of chipboard in the background was cut from the Stampin' Up die "Topnote"

6) - Our first summer together layout. The chipboard was distressed

with vintage photo distress ink.

7) - A layout of my bebe boy with his bright blue eyes. This chipboard

is one of my favorite uses EVER! It started out as a sort of blueish gray color

that didn't really match the blues in the layout.. so I splattered dark brown

paint behind it using it as a guide/mask.. and then white washed the actual

frame piece to blend in more. The chipboard birdcage is from a TH Die that

I painted white.. then crackled and finally painted brown.

8) - This page is a commission for a customer. The chipboard here is layered under

the mini bird and rosette. Handmade embellishment!

9) - This piece was done as a design team submission.. it's a giant altered globe. There are all

types of chipboard applications on here.. some are left raw, some are distressed, some are

crackled, some are painted, some are inked... :)

10) - And last but not least a wall hanging made for a friend using Be Mine by EP.

The chipboard center cameo was cut from the cricut cartridge "Heritage". It was then

painted black and diamond glazed over to give it a sort of glassy smooth look.

Thanks so much for taking the time to check these out!! I hope you find what you're looking for in the DT and good luck to any and all who are applying! -DeeDee

12 days tag TWELVE!!

2011-12-11T21:00:00.000-07:00

Thank you so much for all the new followers.. the wonderful comments and most of all for continuing to come here and spend time with me each day!! It seemed to get a little dicey there in the middle but it really has picked back up here at the end :)

Each day of the hop we are using stamps from Plate #1363 -- which is also a PRIZE! for people who hop all 12 days, leave comments and become followers!

You should have started @ Terri's Blog. if not, click the link and be sure to go in order :)

My Creation:

--Today's tag goes back to that gorgeous santa face --- but I took a little inspiration from TH's tags and threw in some sort of pantone(sp?) vintage style colors... He looks kinda neat!!! --

Thanks for stopping by!! You're on your way to Susan's Blog next!!!

-DeeDee

12 tags Day 11

2011-12-10T21:00:00.000-07:00

Each day of the hop we are using stamps from Plate #1363 -- which is also a PRIZE! for people who hop all 12 days, leave comments and become followers!

You should have started @ Terri's Blog. if not, click the link and be sure to go in order :)

My Creation:

--sorry to those who saw the message that WAS here.. lol. copy and pasted from yesterdays :P .. This guy is not glued down to the tag.. I just wanted to share the size with a reference :)--

Thanks for stopping by!! You're on your way to Susan's Blog next!!!

-DeeDee

12 tags day 10

2011-12-09T21:00:00.000-07:00

♥♥♥

Each day of the hop we are using stamps from Plate #1363 -- which is also a PRIZE! for people who hop all 12 days, leave comments and become followers!

You should have started @ Terri's Blog. if not, click the link and be sure to go in order :)

My Creation:

Looking at this guy now I'm thinking I might peel out the red on manila and maybe just go with a blue on dark brown?? something like that!

Thanks for stopping by!! You're on your way to Susan's Blog next!!!

-DeeDee

12 tags day 9

2011-12-08T21:00:00.000-07:00

seriously you guys are TOO NICE!! THANK YOU for all the sweet sweet comments!! Sometimes I have a bad day too ;) and you guys really helped me out of my rut! But I'm with you --- simple just aint me ;)

Each day of the hop we are using stamps from Plate #1363 -- which is also a PRIZE! for people who hop all 12 days, leave comments and become followers!

You should have started @ Terri's Blog. if not, click the link and be sure to go in order :)

My Creation:

LOVE THIS PIECE!

Thanks for stopping by!! You're on your way to Susan's Blog next!!!

-DeeDee

12 tags day 8

2011-12-07T21:00:00.000-07:00

Thank you so much for all your sweet comments, everyone -- you remind me why I should just keep going!!! And why there are SO many different styles.. because we don't all like the same things :D

Each day of the hop we are using stamps from Plate #1363 -- which is also a PRIZE! for people who hop all 12 days, leave comments and become followers!

You should have started @ Terri's Blog. if not, click the link and be sure to go in order :)

My Creation:

This tag is different too... I think after tonight I'm going to STOP trying simple ;) -- did you hear Webster's is looking for simple scrapbookers for a new DT? Don't think I'll be trying out there ;)

oh well.. this is still a very nice stamp!!

Thanks for stopping by!! You're on your way to Susan's Blog next!!!

-DeeDee

12 tags day 7

2011-12-07T00:00:00.000-07:00

Each day of the hop we are using stamps from Plate #1363 -- which is also a PRIZE! for people who hop all 12 days, leave comments and become followers!

You should have started @ Terri's Blog. if not, click the link and be sure to go in order :)

My Creation:

This tag is.. different to say the least. I wanted to use that gorgeous santa.. but think I'll be trying him again.. I also wanted to stay with Linda's 12 tags.. but incorporate that simplistic look that Prima posted on THEIR tags.. gosh. too much! lol

--looking back on this.. I'm actually pretty disappointed in this tag's turnout. boo--

it's only saving grace IS that gorgeous santa stamp!!

I have also managed to base my tags off of Linda (The Funky Junkie)'s 12 tags! So I will be linking up there each day :) Today's is linking to tag 6 -- I stayed with the color scheme (sort of) used the "25" and a doily!

Thanks for stopping by!! You're on your way to Susan's Blog next!!!

-DeeDee

12 tags day 6

2011-12-05T22:24:00.001-07:00

Ahhh! 1/2 the way through!! Once again -- thank you SO much for your sweet sweet comments. each and every one makes my day again :D

Each day of the hop we are using stamps from Plate #1363 -- which is also a PRIZE! for people who hop all 12 days, leave comments and become followers!

You should have started @ Terri's Blog. if not, click the link and be sure to go in order :)

My Creation:

That sleeping little elf is just so cute! Don't you think? The NOEL is also a VLVS! stamp found HERE.

I have also managed to base my tags off of Linda (The Funky Junkie)'s 12 tags! So I will be linking up there each day :) Today's is linking to tag 5 -- I'm a huge found object fan, much like Linda -- and today I used an actual bottle brush tree... glittered it myself to look like snow and found some fab metallic beads I had that look like miniature glass ornaments!! The "JOY" on her tag is splendid and a great main focus.. so I went for that same look with my NOEL.

Thanks for stopping by!! You're on your way to Susan's Blog next!!!

-DeeDee

12 tags Day 5

2011-12-04T21:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome to our very own 12 Tags O' Christmas!! I've been super impressed by the team and I'm SUPER thankful for all your wonderful comments. They make me feel all warm inside!

Each day of the hop we are using stamps from Plate #1363 -- which is also a PRIZE! for people who hop all 12 days, leave comments and become followers!

You should have started @ Terri's Blog. if not, click the link and be sure to go in order :)

My Creation:

(is this photo blurry??)

Don't be afraid to cut out parts of stamps you like.. or to stamp them and then cut into the image --- I do love the lights that are originally strung on top of this "Have a Merry Christmas" but for this application I decided the image would be better with out them! Easy peasy.. just cut them away!

I have also managed to base my tags off of Linda (The Funky Junkie)'s 12 tags! So I will be linking up there each day :) Today's is linking to tag 4 -- I loved yesterday's background (as did all of you I noticed!) so much that I recreated it.. a little lighter and a bit more green.. I loved the animal Linda had, the cheesecloth AND the icesicles.

Thanks for stopping by!! You're on your way to Susan's Blog next!!!

-DeeDee

12 tags Day 4!

2011-12-04T00:00:00.000-07:00

Can't believe we're a 1/3 the way through already!!

Each day of the hop we are using stamps from Plate #1363 -- which is also a PRIZE! for people who hop all 12 days, leave comments and become followers!

You should have started @ Terri's Blog. if not, click the link and be sure to go in order :)

My Creation:

I need daylight all day long so that I can take better photos.. even when I wait till the last minute ;)

I have also managed to base my tags off of Linda (The Funky Junkie)'s 12 tags! So I will be linking up there each day :) Today's is linking to tag 3 -- I swear I start with Linda's tags as inspiration -- I love the "old music sheet" that she's created (i'm assuming with vellum and a heat gun) so I tried to do something similar with my sentiment.. and in my head I was thinking "Believe... wish... dream" and so forth! I do love vintage browns/tea dyes and such.. but I also love some nice color -- so this one does not match in tones ;)

Thanks for stopping by!! You're on your way to Susan's Blog next!!!

-DeeDee

12 tags day 3!

2011-12-03T00:00:00.000-07:00

I'm glad to be back folks ... thanks so much for your sweet sweet comments on day 1 and for all the encouragement to get my computer fixed on day 2 :) I really am having fun showing you my tags!

Each day of the hop we are using stamps from Plate #1363 -- which is also a PRIZE! for people who hop all 12 days, leave comments and become followers!

You should have started @ Terri's Blog. if not, click the link and be sure to go in order :)

My Creation:

Quick note about the background : I used Miracle Tape from VLVS! to stripe .. then dumped embossing powder on the tag.. it sticks to the double sided tape which makes for beautiful stripes! Heat with a gun and viola!!

I have also managed to base my tags off of Linda (The Funky Junkie)'s 12 tags! So I will be linking up there each day :) Today's is linking to tag 2 -- Mostly I took inspiration from her handmade flower and the variety in textures that she used! I've got rough cardstock, plastic netting, smooth satin... it's a super fun tag to hold!

Thanks for stopping by!! You're on your way to Susan's Blog next!!!

-DeeDee

12 Tags Day 2..

2011-12-02T08:52:00.001-07:00

My apologies!! We had internet issues but have now fixed them :) I will continue with my 12 tags tomorrow! Please visit everyone else's fab blogs for some beautiful inspiration!

1.	Terri Sproul ~ Team Leader
2.	Lea
3.	Lyneen
4.	Aimee

5.	Susan

VLVS! 12 tags of Christmas Day 1

2011-12-01T00:00:00.000-07:00

welcome to our 12 day long blog hop!! Me and some of the other DT from Viva Las Vegastamps! are so excited to show you tags for TWELVE days!!! (I cannot believe it's Christmas already!) Hopefully you'll make our blogs a stop every day just like Tim Holtz's!!

Each day of the hop we are using stamps from Plate #1363 -- which is also a PRIZE! for people who hop all 12 days, leave comments and become followers!

You should have started @ Terri's Blog. if not, click the link and be sure to go in order :)

My Creation:

I have also managed to base my tags off of Linda (The Funky Junkie)'s 12 tags! So I will be linking up there each day :) Today's is linking to tag 1 -- I loved the monotone sort of tea stained look, the giant rosette, Santa, and how the bow is not THROUGH the hole on the tag, but more as an embellishment. :)

Thanks for stopping by!! You're on your way to Susan's Blog next!!!

-DeeDee

do you ever just go "BLAH!" ?!

2011-11-29T08:00:00.001-07:00

I feel like I've been running around with my head cut off and ten extra arms.

I have so many PLANS. and IDEAS. and just not enough t.i.m.e. I've entered contests, and made promises, and taken orders, and written down snippets of things I Need to do.. SHOULD do.. and then the things I /want/ to do but don't NEED to.

Then there's the things people SUGGEST I do, that I don't even really want to.. on top of all that I DO want to.

And there are things I'd like to do for personal crafting.. things I'd like to change around the house.. and things I'd like to do for the etsy shop (I've been contemplating taking it in an almost completely different direction). Then there's the "real" job. and maybe finding a second "real" job.

and oh yeah. christmas is coming up.

Plus we just did our three day cook-off for thanksgiving.. and we've got to plan the xmas one and figure out presents.. hand made vs store bought. easy choice ;)

And I will always find the need (no matter what) to incorporate my schooling into my every day passions.. because for heaven's sake we can't "waste" that $100,000 piece of paper. No no no!!

At the end of it all I just thank goodness for the Husband I have who puts up with all my "crap" and the little bundle of joy we have that is now 10 months old.. the one who walks like a pro without stumbling... feeds himself.. and "ROOOOOARS" after the dogs with his arms in the air.

Expect more CRAFTY goodness blogging over the next four/five weeks!!!

Culture Shock!!

2011-11-25T09:54:00.001-07:00

Have you seen the culture shock challenge blog yet?? I'm trying like hell to keep this thing going and sometimes it seems to slip away from me.. maybe I need an assistant ;)

the idea for this came from Jennifer Bliss's mind and she kindly asked me to coordinate!

Today the challenge is "DIY"

I showcased these ornaments as my DT project! head on over and check it out :)

Also be on the lookout because the Viva Las Vegastamps DT is doing our own 12 tags of christmas!! I'll be sharing twelve tags twelve days along with a hop for you to see the other DT members' works :)

P.S. Love seeing the followers on the blog climb --- I've had a bit of a hard time managing my open time well and sorry that the blog has unfortunately been on the back burner.. but that's changing now! :D

Imaginarium Design Team Call!!

2011-11-18T08:48:00.000-07:00

1) - a classy kind of vintage chic inspired card made for a gal
who knitted a beautiful blanket for our dear baby boy. The chipboard is inked with
a distress ink by foam application.

2) - TimHoltz inspired Christmas tag. The chipboard was embossed

with clear ink and red distress embossing powder.

3) - A set of LOVE tags that hang on a wire in our living room.
The chipboard was peeled in half to reveal the "softer" inside, wetted
with water, embossed with a folder and distressed with antique linen

distress stain.

4) - a very sultry sexy inspired tag. In this piece I designed the chipboard

which I sent to a local laser cutter. When I got the raw piece back, I embossed

it with smooth black embossing powder and ran it through a texture folder.

5) - A steampunky tag. The chipboard on this piece is stamped and

hand cut to match the stamp. it started as a square piece of board. The 2nd

piece of chipboard in the background was cut from the Stampin' Up die "Topnote"

6) - Our first summer together layout. The chipboard was distressed

with vintage photo distress ink.

7) - A layout of my bebe boy with his bright blue eyes. This chipboard

is one of my favorite uses EVER! It started out as a sort of blueish gray color

that didn't really match the blues in the layout.. so I splattered dark brown

paint behind it using it as a guide/mask.. and then white washed the actual

frame piece to blend in more. The chipboard birdcage is from a TH Die that

I painted white.. then crackled and finally painted brown.

8) - This page is a commission for a customer. The chipboard here is layered under

the mini bird and rosette. Handmade embellishment!

9) - This piece was done as a design team submission.. it's a giant altered globe. There are all

types of chipboard applications on here.. some are left raw, some are distressed, some are

crackled, some are painted, some are inked... :)

10) - And last but not least a wall hanging made for a friend using Be Mine by EP.
The chipboard center cameo was cut from the cricut cartridge "Heritage". It was then

painted black and diamond glazed over to give it a sort of glassy smooth look.

Thanks so much for taking the time to check these out!! I hope you find what you're looking for in the DT and good luck to any and all who are applying! -DeeDee

Tags of xmas blog hop!! Coming DEC 1st!!

2011-11-16T12:52:00.001-07:00

Viva Las Vegastamps team is putting together a little (Or large!) blog hop to share this fabulous plate with you:

be ready to hop and be inspired!

Join us the 1st of Dec and for a few days after to see new tags by all!!

-DeeDee

Absent + Update = GOODIES

2011-11-05T20:25:00.000-06:00

I know I've been so slack on posting.. but a friend and I have signed up to do some CRAFT SHOWS (ahhh!) and I've been concentrating on doing things for that... plus design teams are forever looming!!

But here's a sneak peek at some things I've been doing with AMAZING MOLD PUTTY!!!

Nov Polka Dot Door Designs BH!

2011-10-31T23:00:00.000-06:00

Welcome to the NOV Blog Hop for Polka Dot Door Designs!!

There are lots of prizes each month so be sure to hop, comment, and participate in the challenge! Vote for your favorite designer and they could get a prize, too! (If you don't know how the hop works be sure to start at the Polka Dot Door to find out all the details!!!)

here is the blog list:

Lindsay

DeeDee (you are here)

Amanda

Debby

Lisa

Aki

Nicole

Smitha

Joanne

Diana

Erin

Ujjwal

Nita

Polka Dot Door Designs

Here is this month's inspiration:

and I am sharing a "Thank You" card made almost exclusive with DCWV paper from last year. I wish I had an amazing "Grateful" stamp ... I just love the font used in the inspiration photo.. may have to make my own :)

Don't forget you go to Amanda's Blog next!!!

Best.Challenge.blog.EVER.

2011-10-25T06:32:00.002-06:00

I can't believe I haven't seen this BEFORE...

A c.h.a.l.l.e.n.g.e. blog based on KRAFT.

Um. WOW!!!!

KRAFTITUP

Molding Sneak Peak - Prima eat your heart out!

2011-10-19T16:52:00.003-06:00

Here is a sneak peek for my first post @ Amazing Mold Putty tomorrow!!

see you there!!

3rd round @ Practical Scrappers!

2011-10-17T17:25:00.001-06:00

Here is my "Banner with the word happy" card at practical scrappers.

be sure to vote! =D (Don't think I'll be making it past this round.. absolutely gorgeous stuff!)

News!!!

2011-10-17T17:22:00.000-06:00

I know I know.. I haven't been very good about blogging.. but I tried working for a little while. gave that up ;) and I'm in the process of moving my crafting table to the kitchen table (more room and better interaction with my family) as well as clearing out some space in the craft room for a bed.. for my Mama!!

Anyways.. I have made Amazing Mold Putty DT --- and I can't wait to show you some things I've been working on for this..

as well as the Ready, Set, Create! team!!

Super pumped about BOTH of these!! Be on the lookout for future pieces for both places =D

Fall Memories

2011-10-13T08:04:00.002-06:00

I made it to the 2nd round over @ Practical Scrappers

here's my fall card

products used: Inkadinkado stamps, walnut distress ink, a 7gypsies stamp, vintage buttons, walnut distress embossing powder, a giant half pearl, seam binding, twine, a paper studio paper, corrugated cardboard and recycled cardboard.

Check out my work in 2 other places today!

2011-10-12T14:50:00.001-06:00

I've shared my globe over @ the Viva Las Vegastamps! Blog..

and I've got a mini album (exploding box) being featured on theCrop today =D

Publications

2011-10-08T15:27:00.001-06:00

Publications/Physical Accomplishments

OCT/NOV issue of Stamper's Sampler - p.75

E-Accomplishments

2011-10-08T15:17:00.002-06:00

in cleaning up my sidebar a little bit I've decided to move my accomplishments to two tabs.. E-Accomplishments and Publications :)

This is..

E-Accomplishments:

Published!!!

2011-10-03T18:48:00.001-06:00

If you happen to be in my close knit circle of crafty friends.. I may have already spilled the beans.. but if you haven't heard..

I WAS PUBLISHED IN THE OCT/NOV ISSUE OF STAMPER'S SAMPLER!

Here is a close up of ME on page 75!! Go buy an issue and check it out!!

Winner, and Contest..

2011-10-02T14:38:00.000-06:00

I won the Rejuvenation Challenge by Graphic 45!!

I've also been selected as one of the 40 finalists for the Practical Scrappers card challenge! click to vote :)

Impossible Things in the PDDD Blog Hop!

2011-10-01T01:01:00.000-06:00

Hello everybody!! Welcome to my stop on the October Polka Dot Door Designs Blog Hop!!

I cannot believe the talent that these 2 girls have.. nor the talent that they find to share their hop each month. I am always so grateful and honored when they ask me! And this go round I'll be giving away a PRIZE!! to a random winner who hops along :)

Here is a quick reminder of the blog hop order:

Lindsay (you came from here)

DeeDee (you are here)

Amanda (go here next!)

Polkadot Door Designs

and here is the beautiful inspiration image:

And here is my piece:

I've got a GORGEOUS red wall in my living room, so I knew I had to have a splash of red for this.. I cannot wait to hang it up!! Supplies used include corrugated cardboard, recycled cardboard boxes, a dymo label maker, MME red paper, red tulle, white snow cap paint dabber, vintage bingo marker, twine, diamond glaze, a frame and a white pen!!

Don't forget to make your own piece and link up on the Polka Dot Door Design's page.. LOTS of prizes included so leave nice notes for everyone :)

You're on your way to Amanda next!!!

Journey to a Far-away Land

2011-09-27T19:15:00.000-06:00

Here is the card I've submitted to the Practical Scrappers card contest.. first round "Use Pink". I'll also link up at MojoMonday and share this card on the VLVS! Blog tomorrow.. as it features one of their GORGEOUS stamps!!

Supplies used: A kraft base, walnut distress ink, tattered rose distress ink, VLVS stamp and ultra high gloss embossing powder, rayon seam binding, grundgeboard, a dymo label maker, diamond glaze and MME paper.

Graphic 45 Rejuvenation Challenge Submission!

2011-09-26T10:52:00.001-06:00

Here's my submission for the Rejuvenation Challenge by Graphic45 --- click the picture to vote :) Must have facebook and LIKE graphic45 before you can like my photo :)

here's what it looked like before:

Following a new blog!

2011-09-23T19:39:00.003-06:00

Saw this gal via Unity in their Growing In Unity program.. love her graphic style and who doesn't love some Blog candy?

Alison's Blog

Sorry my blog has been kind of sad.. working on stuff for publications and design team reveals further in the future.. but be prepared for a reveal soon :)

Last minute entry for SSSandShow

2011-09-17T11:56:00.000-06:00

It takes me forever to be happy with a "Steampunk" piece.. which is of course the theme at last week's Simon says stamp and show..

I'm not sure why I don't feel confident in steampunk work.. but I worked all week on the piece and here it is!!

Products used: TH Tag and book plates die, walnut stain distress ink, vintage photo distress ink, spiced marmalade distress ink, Stampin' Up Top Note die, KnCo gems, Viva Las Vegastamps! Balloon stamp, TH Wings stamp, twine, E beads by Cousin, Memento black ink, gears from viva las vegastamps, studio G alpha stamps, a dymo label maker, MM reverie gems, snug hug, vintage book and broken china distress ink.

The clouds are available in my Etsy shop in all sorts of colors :)

Remember the voting?? I WON!!!

2011-09-14T21:31:00.001-06:00

Thanks to each and every one of you who voted once or multiple times.. thanks to all who had friends and family vote!! now it's time to see who won my prize :)

Prize One: box of random goodies!:

Who is.....

Paula-Scrap Addict said...

v.o.t.e.d.

September 5, 2011 9:35 AM

Prize Two is $10 crop credit!!

Who is...

mommyx2 said...

Voted!!!

August 31, 2011 10:33 AM

Third Prize of an UmWow Studio package!:

Is...

Chris said...

monday son voted too

August 15, 2011 8:12 PM

and I said if I won I'd give away a fourth prize... An October Afternoon SEASIDE collection:

Said..

VictoriaSchnorr said...

I was able to vote again today. YAY~

August 14, 2011 7:15 AM

Ok Ladies!! Congrats and thank you so much for helping me!! Contact me via EMAIL (deedee430@gmail.com) By the 21st to claim your prize!! I'll get details for getting you your goodies then!

BirdCage Swap

2011-09-14T08:00:00.000-06:00

Here is my tag for Frankie's Swap!!

Sneak Peek!!

2011-09-11T16:58:00.000-06:00

I was just part of this FANTASTIC bird cage tag swap put together by Frankie (Who I found via SimonSaysStampandShow) and my tag is wizzing off to somewhere crazy in the UK! AHH!

I'm not posting the whole reveal yet but here is a sneak peek of what's on it's way to Aj!!

Did you Vote??

2011-09-09T09:23:00.001-06:00

I've updated the voting and giveaway tag post to include this message :

----THANK YOU to everyone who commented! and especially those of you who found the time to vote more than once! We will wait and see who wins what --- because I have decided to throw in an extra prize if I won the grandprize we will wait until Spotted Canary announces the winners to pick the winners for MY prize!! -----

Thank you everyone, sincerely!! I wait on pins and needles =D

The Queen has a visitor

2011-09-04T19:33:00.001-06:00

Here's the piece I've done for Simon Says Stamp and Show using the colors from the Play Date Cafe. I've had this little bird cage for quite some time.. and have been thinking about what I wanted to do.. when SSSnS decided to do an Anything Goes and the PDC opted for black and white with a splash of red I knew I had it made!! Here is Queen Owl with a tiny visitor in her home :)

Since trying out for the BG DT I've LOVED using this owl in pieces.. It's definitely a "keep on hand ALL THE TIME stamp" Because the PDC says WHITE and black with a splash of red I white washed all the "cream" or "kraft" pieces with acrylic paint

Here is an image of the Queen's home with her little visitor.

Supplies: pearl strand, alcohol ink in watermelon, old vintage book, bottle cap, MME's Meadowlark, Diamond glaze, feathers, micro beads, wooden spools, TH's Mini bird die, TH's tattered florals die, E beads, mini cork and vial, faux black stamen, BG Cherry Cola paper, hot glue, acrylic paint.

Here are some of my favorite closeups:

Cage, thread, tinsel from MME's Union Square

Viva Las Vegastamps! Owl Stamp, smooth embossing powder, twine

Vintage eyelet lace, ribbon lace, E beads, cork and vial

I had SO much fun and am SO pleased with the way it turned out! =D

Viva Las Vegastamps! Submission.

2011-08-31T23:00:00.001-06:00

I can't believe it's that time already --- the VLVS! team (work seen on the VLVS BLOG) is coming to the end of our 6 month term and tryouts are upon us again! The requirements for this tryout were to knock off Terri's socks with a project using VLVS! Stamps.. and I have acquired some SUPER fab ones.. I chose to use one stamp two ways --- This realistic Owl stamp just had to come home to me.. and I'm loving it's varied uses!

the first thing I'm showing is a 12x12 LO where this stamp is just the perfect "Watchful" embellishment.. The rest of the project uses Basic Grey's Eerie Line (I'm using this LO as part of my submission for their DT call, as well), corrugated cardboard, twine, black acrylic paint, some polymer cabochons I made, satin, floral beads, rubons, studio G gems, ribbon, white leaves, distress ink, a dymo label maker, and cheesecloth. I /think/ that's everything!

Here's a close up...

I stamped the bird in an archival black ink on white cardstock.. cut him out and pasted him here!!

And the 2nd thing I'm showing is a card --- Just distress emboss the owl on a nice kraft sheet and viola.. totally different look! He's much softer, a bit more wise and weathered. The NOEL stamp is ALSO from Viva Las Vegastamps! I just stamped it, embossed it, and then cut it apart to give it a little whimsy! The flower is muslin with distres ink.. there's also Basic Grey paper in the background (the green) and some vintage lace with faux stamen in the corner! Add a big golden button and we're done! :)

To create this card I cut papers to size and inked edges. Both stamps were mentioned before.. smooth embossing one and distress embossing the other. The flower is made from distress inked muslin and the tim holtz tattered florals die.

This team is fabulous.. Terri and Wayne are AMAZING! And I thank them for giving me the opportunity in the first term, whether or not I make it on. Congrats to those of you who are chosen! I'm sure it's well deserved and look forward to seeing what you create for VLVS!

BG + Sketchy Thursdays!

2011-08-30T07:13:00.004-06:00

Here is another NEW layout I did for the BG DT call --- scaaaaaaaaary. I don't know what they're looking for so I'm trying to give them the best of me! The first one.. Wander used TONS of their embellishments from the collection pack and the epoxy glazed brads.

This 2nd one is all Lemonade, but IIIII made the embellishments. Granted they may not be very detailed but I accomplished exactly what I was going for.. a slightly more altered look. A little doodling, a little coloring, some paint, ink and viola! we have a scene =)

I'll also be submitting this to this week's SketchyThursdays! Which submission deadline happens to be tomorrow night.. I always cut it so close lol.

did YOU hear?!? BASICGREY DT CALL!!

2011-08-27T11:09:00.003-06:00

BG is having a DT call!! TWENTY open spots! Here's to hoping, eh??

I felt like BG is such a prominent amazing company that they deserve nothing but the newest and best.. so for the next few days I'll be creating my little butt off to show them new projects!

Here is the first.. using 90% Wander (including the brads) as well as floral beads, thread, white acrylic paint, thickers, a dymo label maker, and a black pen!

Yes.. I WILL be adding a photo and journaling.

Will Travel For Love

2011-08-23T15:41:00.004-06:00

I've been stuck on the "Travel" theme over at Simon Says Stamp and Show since I saw it late Sunday night ---- but I knew that I wanted to use this amazing stamp from Viva Las Vegastamps! so I dug through some previously untouched papers and came across this awesome BasicGrey 6x6 pad called Granola. I ripped out my favorite piece and got to embossing my stamp.

Then I adorned the wheels with small watch gears and pulled out some grungeboard. After crackling with Espresso and Snowcap dabbers and inking with barn door and black soot distress ink I got to assembling. A little creative "coffee ring" placement and some doodling finished off this tag -- I LOVE IT.

Now I notice that that L is a little crooked --- too late now, thanks to the diamond glaze ;) -DeeDee

Shabby Chicness (my favorite description)

2011-08-22T10:56:00.002-06:00

I love the description Shabby Chic --- even though it has so many meanings and is totally overused. what can I say? I'm addicted to the feelings of nostalgia that it invokes!

Here is a new flower -- I tried replicating the Gatsby collection by Prima but with my own little twist of vintage lace (I also used grosgrain instead of a smooth seam binding) -- And I've been experimenting with other fabrics as well -- burlap, muslin and the likes --- for more vintage kind of turn of the century feelings rather than so much glitz and glam.

What do you think??

Sneak Peek!!

2011-08-20T18:47:00.001-06:00

New : Die cuts!

2011-08-20T09:47:00.004-06:00

While I'm in the process of getting some other things together for the shop, I've decided to start offering die cuts in different materials ... 2 of my favorite: Corrugated cardboard and manila -- if there's something you don't see that you'd like, shoot me a convo!

get fifty tickets for $3!

10 umbrella men for $3

and 5 each of the key and matching keyplate for $3!

We've already been included in a few GORGEOUS treasuries! Raindrops on Roses and Seeking Shelter

Inspire - The Art Journal Reveal

2011-08-19T00:00:00.001-06:00

I have big plans of sketches and doodles.. trims and laces.. flowers and cabochons.. ideas and failures.. innovation and recognition..

Here is the cover to my Art Journal titled "INSPIRE" -- I've had this idea for a while.. and it just so happens that four challenges conspired together to create this beauty.

supplies used: Acrylic album, white paint, Tim Holtz Tags and Keyplates die, Stampin' Up butterflies die, faux stamen, MM's Chloe pins, BasicGrey's Lime Rickey, Studio G stamps, Anita's stamp, jar, TH Distress Ink, Rubber Stampede stamp, Don Juan cartridge, mini spool and vintage thread, 2 random leaf sprays, recycled corrugated cardboard, hot glue, zing embossing powder, Stampin' Up stamp, StazOn saddle brown.

This was done for the CropChocolate Focus Group Mini Challenge, Simon Says Stamp and Show Bling, Sunday Stamper's White Lines and Flutter By Wednesdays - Wings + a Die.

Beginning of an Art Journal

2011-08-17T17:44:00.004-06:00

Here's a sneak peek at some of the things I've been working on --- unfortunately a lot of the DT stuff takes up my time, but you can't see it until they're ready to reveal!!

So here's a glimpse of a soon reveal!

I've decided I want to start an art journal :) ... TADA! The cover peek!

Empty-ish Blog -- The Twinery!

2011-08-14T15:22:00.004-06:00

Because I'm working on a few "secret"ish things I can't quite share them yet --- so instead I'm going to share the Twiner's Blog Hop coming up this week...

who doesn't love yummy goodies??

P.S. THANK YOU to all who are voting and will continue to vote -- don't forget to click the link on the right side of my blog to leave comments for your entries into all the prizes!! YAY! P.S. So far we are at 34 or 35 different voters --- find us five more and I'll make the give away EVEN larger --- who loves October Afternoon???

Voting + A giveaway!

2011-08-10T08:36:00.008-06:00

Ok Folks -- here's the scoop - I aired this tag on the Viva Las Vegastamps! blog a couple of weeks ago as an altering stamped images feature.

I also entered said tag into a Summer Competition at Spotted Canary (by EK Success)! The voting has officially opened and I'm looking to rack in a large stack of votes!! Here is what I'm proposing - I will put a permanent link to this blog post on the right side of my blog -- every day that you vote you post on this blog post! And for every ten DIFFERENT people that vote I will add a new prize to the giveaway! BUT If you vote EVERY day and remember to post that you did, that's TWENTY-ish entries into the prizes :)

---Click Here To Vote---
-to vote be sure to click the BIG GREEN VOTE BUTTON. once you've voted a CHECKMARK will appear.. which will be gone the next day for you to vote again!-

So far I have the first three prizes picked out (Which will happen even if we don't get thirty DIFFERENT voters)

#1: I have this huge box of RAK that is all unopened unused product that I have no intention of EVER using - from this moment forward it belongs to a currently undecided voter!! Products include but not limited to: AC Thickers, MM Sticker Alphas, Prima Flowers and butteflies, 7Gypsies stickers and velvet flowers.

#2: I know a lot of you will be from Crop Chocolate.. so it seems only fit I give away $10 in crop credit as a prize!

#3: and as this is MY blog and MY entry -- I'll be giving away a prize package from my ETSY shop! Included will be 2 sets of flowers (One paper, One fabric) A set of butterflies, a set of clouds, and a top secret all new item coming soon!! You choose the color/pattern/combo of said items =)

and because I know plenty of you loyal friends have already voted from yesterday and today, just leave separate comments stating each and You'll be entered for those votes as well!!!

Thank you EVERYONE for any past and previous votes, and thank you to all future votes!

Good luck on winning, all! <3 DeeDee

Be sure there is someone way for me to contact you in the event of you winning!

----THANK YOU to everyone who commented! and especially those of you who found the time to vote more than once! We will wait and see who wins what --- because I have decided to throw in an extra prize if I won the grandprize we will wait until Spotted Canary announces the winners to pick the winners for MY prize!! -----

Baby BLUE eyes - SketchyThursdays + Paula's Bling It

2011-08-09T07:28:00.004-06:00

I've been totally inspired by those layouts with huge white spaces and tons of bold color with single photo focus points --- so that's what I've chosen to strive for with this week's Sketchy Thursdays!! (Plus it had been a while since I did a nice big layout!)

I'm also going to enter it into Paula's "Bling It' Challenge!

I did lots of artsy farsty stuff on this layout -- MY FAVE! Splattering and Dobbing with TH/Adirondack Acrylic Paint Dabber in espresso. I also Crackled my BRAND NEW TH mini birdcage shaper and mover die laying down first espresso, then crackle, then snow cap, then crackle and finally espresso again!

I also made sure to stamp with the espresso dobber!! Thanks to AMBER for helping me obtain some of these beauties!!

Used: Fancy Pants stamp, TH Shaper and Mover mini bird and cage die, Adirondack Dobbers in Snow cap and espresso, a prismacolor marker in mediterranean blue, some random paper and a Making Memories frame!

<3 DeeDee

CropChocolate Blog Hop!!

2011-08-05T10:00:00.008-06:00

Welcome to my (D² - DeeDee) stop on the CropChocolate hop!!

(if you are looking for the Polka Dot Door blog hop please scroll down to the next post!)

I am SOOO pumped to be part of this team!! I love everything that CC has to offer.. from the ability to share our projects to the wonderful conversations that are shared in sweetTALK. Not to mention the fabulous Employees of CC and the SUPERSWEET deals they have to offer!

Here is a list of the hop in order, in case you feel you've gotten lost or you arrived here by some other way!!

CropChocolate

Beth Dewalt

Corrie Ettinger Wagner

Michele Barnott McKay

Paula Irvine (you came from here!)

DeeDee Catron (you are here!)

Karen Hanson (go here next!)

Jenn Koss

Paula McClane

Alissa Wells

Amber and Jamie (Double Header!!)

As part of the DT I want to provide all of you with whatever it is you want! If you'd like to see a special technique, maybe how something is put together, or how I'd interpret an idea.. whatever.. please do not hesitate to ask!!

That being said... for my stop on the Hop I've opted to show you all the Distress STAIN in use --- You saw on Wednesday one of the more simple ways to use the ink... and I know that there were even more questions about the stain - so now you'll have seen both!!

here is my project:

I've entered this tag into the Summer contest at Spotted Canary (Find them on Facebook) and would love your votes!! Voting starts the 9th!

And here is a short video about applying stain:

Enjoy!! -DeeDee

Don't forget that next you're going to Karen Hanson's Blog --- and be sure to leave comments EVERYwhere you visit - there's a HUGE prize involved! (including a slice.. some slice cards and much more!)

Polka Dot Door BH

2011-08-05T00:01:00.003-06:00

Welcome to the Polka Dot Door Designs Blog Hop for August!!

I was so thrilled to be invited as a guest designer again!! But I must say - these girls are hoping to get enough participation to have NEW teams each month.. and these challenges are SO amazing, add in the fact that you get TWO weeks to submit, and that I'm on my knees BEGGING you to see what they have to offer... you really should be trying out!!!!

And there are always PRIZES to be won!!!

Pork Chop Show
-will be providing the prize for the Challenge winner which is 3 sets of wooden cut-out embellishments. (be sure to create a project based on the inspiration and enter it in the linky!)

Live the Chaos
-is giving away a gift certificate to their shop and mini stamp to the blog hop winner. (visit all blogs, leave comments, and let the Polka Dot Door know!)

Duetica
-is providing a HUGE give-away for the featured designer. The prize consists of their innovative software for creative fonts and fonts valued at $38.

Diana
Smitha
Mazlina
Angi
Elizabeta
Libeeti
Nicole (you came from here)
Dee Dee (you are here)
Valerie (go here next!)
Trina
Sabrina
Polkadot Door Design
(P.S. if you're having trouble finding this month's PDDD Click HERE)

Without further ado here is this month's inspiration:

and my project:

This month it was tough for me to fit the inspiration -- I had tons of ideas but nothing really seemed to come together quite right until this lil guy fell onto my desk! Unfortunately by then I had nixed the kind of pumpkin-ny orange =(

Supplies: CosmoCricket paper, petaloo flower, Studio G stamps, Anita stamp, corrugated cardboard, distress ink, stazOn ink, EP sticker alphas, random faux stamen and bead floral spray, white acrylic paint, adhesive, twine.

Don't forget -- you're on your way to Valerie's Blog!!!
Thanks in advance for all your sweet comments :) -DeeDee

Featured @ CropChocolate today!

2011-08-03T08:00:00.005-06:00

This is the first month of the official Design team over at CropChocolate!! So be on the lookout THIS Sunday for a huge feature on the new team. Also, on Friday starts a giant blog hop involving all of the new members with some fabulous inspiration and blog candy!!

And I have the honor of being the first official feature of the new team!!!! A ton of the gals over at CropChocolate have been asking questions about Distress Ink --- which of course is a favorite of mine and since CC has now started offering these fabulous inks I've done a short video on using them!!

Here is the project I turned in:

all the details and the video can be found on TheCrop

-DeeDee

Tag-a-licious - SSSnS

2011-08-02T14:33:00.005-06:00

Here is another submission for the Simon Says Stamp and Show challenge -- the DT really has amazing work this week so be sure to check it out! Jury is still out on the new DT spots.. no rejection emails yet so I've got my fingers crossed.. good luck to all who applied!

I started with a manilla tag, black soot and barn door distress ink. I foamed the tag with barn door, and splattered with black soot. I then ran a permanent ink (Momento black tuxedo) over the edges and stamped with a Stampin' Up stamp that I got at a garage sale for ONE DOLLAR! (Normally this stamp goes for $22!) I walking stitched the lace which was folded over and secured it to create a flower. I glued a round button in the middle.. black and shiny. I picked through my feathers till I found the perfect additions! The dress form is actually my own design laser cut by a local cutter here in town. I heat embossed it with black soot and smooth embossing powder.. then dry embossed with a script folder. the pearls were just laying around here in my studio and the black twine/cord was given to me in a box of fabulousness from my grandmother!

click the images to see bigger photos :)

-DeeDee

Adventure waits for no one - a Tag

2011-07-27T17:57:00.004-06:00

The theme @ Simon Says Stamp and Show this week is "Anything Goes" Woo!! and Since I did the globe I've been stuck on this "Brave the Storm" thing with the Vintage Umbrella Man stamp I got from Viva Las Vegastamps! ... so I went ahead and did another version of that theme.. and in my head I'm thinking "Brave the storm... adventure waits for no one"

So here goes:

I took a piece of Paper Studio paper and layered it on my tag.. then embossed it with a texture fade by TH --- vintage photo inked the CRUD out of it and let dry. On a piece of photo paper I stamped the Umbrella Man and drew some clouds. Cut out. adhere to tag. THEN I colored a few floral beads with Stream Alcohol Ink and diamond glazed some raindrops onto the tag. Once the diamond glaze was dry I inked those spots.. and adhered my floral beads. The ribbon is a sheer white that I splotched with the Stream AI and crumpled in hand.

Done :) -DeeDee

Recipe box + Creating a vintage envelope tie

2011-07-25T21:21:00.004-06:00

I forgot to post this on my own blog.. and as I'll be using this video to apply to the Authentique Design Team here goes!

I made this Recipe holder for the "All about me" Project for CropChocolate.com due a couple months ago.

supplies: Euphoria collection pack by BasicGrey, Rhinestone Brads by Making Memories, Miracle Tape by Viva Las Vegastamps!, Twine, Distress Ink, Cork, Brown pen, Mini Eyelets.

It opens up quite nicely to hold all my favorite recipes.. both hand written and magazine torn ;) ..and it sits right beside the stove!!

and I did this shortish video on the vintage envelope tie! Makes it really easy to understand :)

Enjoy! -DeeDee

Altered Globe - Simon Says Stamp + Show

2011-07-22T12:25:00.011-06:00

Simon Says Stamp and Show is having another Design Team call -- I applied once before, and wasn't accepted... but the two girls they chose do WONDERFUL work (so I'm not THAT hurt lol), and I'm sure there are HUNDREDS of gorgeous applications this time around, too. So I've told myself "Go big or go home!" And the theme this week is EMBOSSING - in each of the photo descriptions I've bolded the appropriate embossing technique!

All week I've been working on altering this globe I found @ A garage sale for $1.

I have a feeling that this will always be a work in progress... as it's so large and each theme (you'll see) can be added to indefinitely, but I thought this was a great stopping point for the moment.. and I'm enjoying just sitting back and soaking in the meaning!

-from here on out I suggest clicking the photos to see them in their actual size!!-

"HOME"

--the beginning of everything is NATURE.. so no matter what's on the outside, we should remember we're always animals on the inside. Driven by emotion and instinct.--
-paper, scrabble tiles, stazon, hinges, brads, a door knob, hot glue, viva las vegastamps miracle tape, wire, distress ink, momento, embossing powder (smooth black)-

I chose to take large sections of the globe and turn them into themes of life or themes of the world.. Kind of like paths you take in your journey of life :) I started by cutting the shapes out of manilla folders and inking them to look like old leather. I then adhered down the folders with Miracle Tape by Viva Las Vegastamps! Because IT.ROCKS. From there I set out to make each piece it's own meaningful story.

"CELEBRATE"

--all about color and fun, adventure, trying new things and loving every minute--
-paper, tissue paper, distress ink, momento, manilla tag, hemp, stazon, mod podge, water, Viva Las Vegastamps! stamps, miracle tape, TH stamps, alligator clip, hot glue-

"TRUCKIN' ALONG"

--sometimes all we're doing is mozying through... and that's ok!--
-paper, distress ink, miracle tape, grungeboard, distress embossing powder(walnut stain), th stamp, hot glue, manilla tag, TH embossing folder (on the A L N G) random round find, Qtip cotton-

"EXPLORE"

--seek out the place you've never been and return to all your favorites--
-distress ink, brown pen, Art Blanche chipboard letters, offbrand chipboard letters, diamond glaze-

"FLY"

--don't be afraid to spread your wings or fill your balloon with a little hot air once in a while--
-Viva Las Vegastamps! stamp, smooth black embossing powder, distress ink, manilla tag, black pen, art blanche chipboard letters, hot glue, 3d pop dots-

"RECORD YOUR LEGACY"

--tell your story!!--
-7Gypsies stamp, distress ink, stazon, GraphicsFairy graphic, feather, hot glue-

"BRAVE THE STORM"

--it gets hard, but if we don't keep going we'll never see the sunshine on the other side!--
-grungboard, distress ink, manilla tag, Prismacolor marker, black pen, Echo park letter stickers, dymo label maker, Viva Las Vegastamps! Umbrella man stamp, tissue paper, mod podge, hot glue-

I have another spot open I think I'll do "Love, Family and Friends" in.. what do you think?? Maybe an "Invention" spot? I love big projects like this!!

I'm also linking up to Grungy Monday - Chipboard

A Tag

2011-07-19T16:49:00.002-06:00

Sharing a Tag I did using newspaper, distress inks, and a Viva Las Vegastamps! Stamp!!

New Shelf!!

2011-07-18T13:38:00.003-06:00

I found this shelf out garage sale-ing.

Some gentlemen were having an estate sale in an old tinting building.. I just happened to look past the goodies in front of me and saw this sitting against the back wall...

Ask and you shall receive.

BEST $10 FIND EVER!!

OhMyCrafts

2011-07-16T19:47:00.002-06:00

Dream a little DREAM {love}

2011-07-09T16:10:00.003-06:00

I wanted to do something light and airy for the "Neon Valentines" Stampington call ... here's what I came up with:

Supplies: Double Dot in white, Love Me Do by My Mind's Eye, 3D-Dots by EK Success, Viva Las Vegastamps! Miracle tape, distress ink in Mustard Seed, Distress Stain in Broken China, black pen, words printed from my computer, QuickKutz Brackets stamps and (looking up the name of the love stamp now)

Glitz Designs CHA sneaks!

2011-07-07T15:29:00.004-06:00

I was never a very big Glitz Designs fan until they started showing their Summer CHA Sneak Peeks! ...

NOW I'M AN AVID FAN TO THE MAX!!!

Here are the 3 they've shown

Beautiful Dreamer:

Vintage Blue:

and Dance in Sunshine:

all.so.amazing.

Unofficial CC Blog #2 !!

2011-07-02T10:00:00.002-06:00

Welcome to the 2nd blog hop put together by a bunch of great gals over at CropChocolate!!

I'd like to make the announcement officially that the final ten members of the CropChocolate Chocolatiers (CC's Design Team) Have been chosen.. INCLUDING ME!! -insert big whoop whoop holler here!!-

I think it was a fantastic idea to do TWO Blog hops as they can get pretty long sometimes -- and we all like to have super sweet comments left :) which is easier when there are fewer blogs to see!

I know everything you've seen today has been fantastic! There has been lots of "OOOhing and AAAhing" over the possibilities with distress ink, so I wanted to share one more example I've done! I have posted this card previously on my blog, but it's new for those CCers of you who haven't been here before and I love how well the ink worked.

This beauty was done on a manilla tag and Making Memories paper --- I inked up the tag and stamped my Viva Las Vegastamps! image in black momento tuxedo ink. Then I did a bit of fussy cutting leaving the straight edges on the bottom and most of the side. For the coffee rings I swiped my pad over a non stick mat and spritzed with a small amount of water... the rings were made from a small candle jar which I always have on hand just for this use! (there is also a huge pickle jar under my desk for when I want a much larger ring!) I used two distress inks on this.. Spiced Marmalade and Black Soot --- =D

Now that you've seen what I have for you scoot on over to Kendahl's Blog and see what she's got in store!!!

---Thanks! DeeDee (D²)

Polkadot Door BH + Love tags + PRIZES!!

2011-07-01T01:01:00.003-06:00

Hiya!! Welcome to my stop on this wonderful inspirational blog hop, sure hope you've found some amazing work to get your creativity flowing. I'm very honored to participate in this hop, as there are some remarkable designers with MAGNIFICENT work!

Here is a list of all the blogs you will have seen by the end -- be sure to visit each one and leave nice comments! It would also be super if you'd leave a comment on the Polkadot Door Designs blog with which project was your favorite!

Jennifer
Nicole
Valerie
Diana
Sabrina
Nicole B.
Court
Tenny
Tammy
Dee Dee -- you are here
Mazlina -- next stop!
Lindsay
Smitha
Polkadot Door Designs

Here is a reminder of July's inspiration (I'm always so blown away by the images that these girls put together):

and after drooling over the hemp like twine, the color combo, and the Love script I had to make a home decor piece -- I decided to make individual tags for each letter and embellish.

please.click.to.enlarge
I'm also submitting this to Simon Says Stamp and Show challenge.. as this week is "A Word" =)

I started with plain manilla tags, inked them with antique linen distress wash, and sponged with barn door distress ink and dusty concord distress ink. Then I spritzed with water and let dry. After some light splattering to create droplet effects I embellished each tag separately.

Supplies: Manilla tags, Antique linen distress wash, Barn door, dusty concord, and black soot distress ink, art blanche cursive letters, MM brads and vintage button, American Crafts pearl brad, rusty key, rusty chain, old door knob, small glass jar, purple wire, seed beads, old hinge, TH grungeboard, gold metallic paint, gold eyelets, mini spool, hemp/twine, paper clip, book page, lace, ribbon and copper findings.

Be sure to make your own creation, as there are LOTS of prizes available.. all of which are located on the Polkadot Door's Blog -- your final destination on the hop and where you'll link up!

Don't forget, you're on your way to Mazlina's blog!

VLVS! Blog Hop + Alice In Wonderland MiniBANNER

2011-06-29T00:00:00.002-06:00

Welcome to my stop in the blog hop!! Hope you are enjoying all the wonderful blog posts you've seen using Viva Las Vegastamps! stamps!

I'm super glad to have you visit me HERE at my blog, instead of the VLVS! Blog.. but that doesn't mean I don't enjoy seeing you there, too. =)

Here is a reminder of the order in which you should be participating and the links in case you need them =) :
Viva Las Vegastamps! Blog - you.probably.started.here
Terri Sproul
Chris Hurley
Kim Prince
Rebecca Parsons
Joe Morgan - you.came.from.here
DeeDee Catron - you.are.here
Jennifer Bliss - go.here.next
-don't forget to leave comments on everyone's posts and follow each blog to be entered for the pound o' rubber prize! SO.MANY.STAMPS.

I try really hard to show you completely different uses for stamps each time I share with you @Viva Las Vegastamps! ... and today is no exception! I've put together for you a mini banner featuring two of my favorite Alice in Wonderland stamps that VLVS has to offer; the Mad Hatter (1.75" x 1.75" - $7.50 mounted) and the March Hare (2.75" x 3.25" - $10 unmounted).

Here are their close ups:

and

and here is a photo of the whole thing:

Supplies include 3 lines by Echo Park; Little Boy, Walk in the Park, and Be Mine, brads, a black pen, white lace, hot glue, the Viva Las Vegastamps! stamps, twine, a yellow net, floral beads, momento tuxedo black ink and distress stain.

Here are my tow favorite banner pieces up close:

|Enjoy! And thanks for stopping!! Don't forget, you are going to Jennifer's blog HERE!!

Woohoo!

2011-06-23T08:13:00.001-06:00

Made SketchyThursdays Fave today! =) Go check it out!

Nom Nom - Sketchy Thursdays

2011-06-21T22:40:00.003-06:00

Ok so I forced myself to get this done so I can submit it to SketchyThursdays --- I LOVED the sketch and had been thinking about the inking ALL WEEK.

And as you've probably recently noticed.. I can't get over Inking, Doodling, or BANNERING. It's terrible. I'm addicted --- good thing I'm pretty good at all three, eh? ;) Just kidding!.. maybe.

Here's my layout for the sketch!

I may or may not have added the pictures digitally.. forgive me, would ya?

Supplies: white cardstock, black sharpie, manilla tags, distress inks, Viva Las Vegastamps! Miracle Tape. Yup, that's it ;)

A lack in progress - rainbow layout

2011-06-21T12:00:00.004-06:00

I love the sketches @ SketchyThursdays --- but sometimes a week isn't enough time for me to get a LO done --- which happens to be the case in last weeks sketch.

But I'm lovin' the progress so much that I wanted to share what I have done so far!

So far it's just white cardstock, manilla tags, black pen and distress ink! I think it's gonna be a good one when it's finished!

Summer ATC + Viva Las Vegastamps!

2011-06-20T07:45:00.004-06:00

I couldn't get over the tag that I worked on for Studio L3 using the TH technique and Viva Las Vegastamps! Stamps --- so I went ahead and did a set of ATCs for the CropChocolate Summer ATC swap with the same theme...

I left off the TH stamps and used only the VLVS stamps because it seemed more cohesive.. and instead of using saddle brown stazon I went with black Momento --- done and done!! A lot of work went into making these... I sure hope it shows through.

Here is a closeup of my favorite part of the ATC.. it shows how the wonderful distress inks blend together and then the splash of red.. GORGEOUS.

P.S. I used Viva Las Vegastamps! ultra fine embossing powder to create a resist.. then inked.. then ironed it away for this amazing batik effect... you NEED this Embossing Powder!!!!

I'll be sharing them on the VLVS blog on WEDNESDAY with details on the techniques -- so be sure to stop over there and see!

Supplies: Viva Las Vegastamps! (Embossing powder, Ferris Wheel Stamp, Jester Stamp) Distress inks (Barn Door, Mustard Seed, Black Soot, and Spiced Marmalade) Momento Ink (Tuxedo Black) and a heat gun!

Tim, A Tag, and a New Technique!

2011-06-18T20:38:00.006-06:00

I've been following this blog Studio L3 for a while.. and every Monday she hosts a "Grungy Monday" where she inspired everyone to get inky and dirty working on something --- well this week's was super fascinating.. a really old technique by Mr. Holtz himself all the way from TWO THOUSAND EIGHT! and I HAD to play!!

This is the one where TH uses an embossing powder on an image.. inks around it and then melts the powder off with an iron - leaving a super fantastic image similar to a silk batik! It's VERY nice. I couldn't get over how wonderful the bright orange and red looked -- so that's where I took my tag.

I also got these great stamps from Viva Las Vegastamps! that I've been dying to combine.. so here's the tag:

and I'll be basing an ATC off of this tag VERY soon! Stay tuned!

Supplies: Manilla tag, Distress ink (Mustard Seed, Spiced Marmalade, Barn Door), StazOn (Saddle Brown), Viva Las Vegastamps! (Jester and Ferris wheel), TH Stamps (Ticket, reel and letters), Miracle Tape from Viva Las Vegastamps!

Dunce is only part of the Journey..

2011-06-14T18:27:00.004-06:00

I put together a Dunce hat for my CropChocolate monochromatic submission this month.. I'll also be submitting it to Simon Says Stamp and Show Challenge for their weekly challenge, this one is distressed and or torn edges.

Supplies: EP's little boy paper, MM Autumn Splendor locket, manilla tag, TH stamps, a label maker, twine, distress ink, StazOn ink, hot glue, Miracle Tape by Viva Las Vegastamps, metal, alcohol ink, and TH butterfly die.

I had big plans for this. it didn't quite turn out what I had in mind, but still pleasant!

A little bird told me..

2011-06-13T13:14:00.006-06:00

Here is the card I made based off of the inspiration from those amazing gals @ the Polkadot Door!

I took the nest quite literally and made my own sort of nest embellishment to cradle a couple of cracked hearts. The twigs I gathered from the neighbor's yard, hopefully they won't mind. lol. I stayed with the brown monochromatic scheme.. the BIRD letters are from a TRAVEL scrabble game.. which is totally my new love.. because they're even thicker but loads smaller face wise.

There is TONS of dimension in this card -- everything has a 3d effect.. whether it's thickness, foam, or glaze. ♥

Supplies: KnCO paper, jillibean card base, twigs, Don Juan cricut cartridge, twine, Saddle Brown StazOn, travel scrabble tiles, Vintage Photo distress ink, Chatter Box Botanico stamps, old book page, brown Sharpie pen, manilla tag, Crackle Accents, hot glue, Miracle Tape from Viva Las Vegastamps!, and a KnCO adhesive gem.

Have you seen what they're doing..

2011-06-12T09:45:00.003-06:00

.. over at the Polkadot Door Designs Blog?? They have the GREATEST inspirational blog hop each month that I've EVER seen.

It is by far my favorite little corner when I'm in need of a kick in the right direction. Here is this month's inspiration:

That's what I'll be doing today! Check them out!