Thursday, November 30, 2017

Christmas Stockings hold gift cards, candy canes and more

10 fun holiday stockings in the November Paper Pumpkin.   I made them up just as the kit suggested.  I’ve put gift cards in these stockings, chocolates, candy canes, and more.



Here's the 2 minute video so you can see how they go together.


My hunch is that they will put this refill kit on sale – so stay tuned.  The refill does not include the ink or stamps, but I would not worry about that.  Just about any holiday stamp set that is about 1 ½ wide and 1-2” high will work great.  

The refill kits are usually $8 so I think that would be a great deal.  However…. The October kit refills (the shaker cards) sold out same day, so you’d need to jump on this quick. 



Happy packaging and happy stamping - MaryKate

Wednesday, November 29, 2017

Hershey Nuggets in 2 x 8 Cello Bags in Christmas Around the World paper

A fun stocking stuffer, I made a bunch of these nugget trios.  Wrap each nugget in a 3 x 1 strip of paper (I used Christmas Around the World).  

Insert a piece of designer paper (I used the snowflake paper from the Year of Cheer) or a solid cardstock 1 7/8 x 3 into the bag and then the nuggets. 



I tied with tinsel and with the silver metallic edged ribbon.  I think I like the tinsel (and I like that it’s 2 rolls for $9).  Which do you like?



Happy packaging and happy stamping - MaryKate

Tuesday, November 28, 2017

Acetate Boxes – make it pop by embossing the clear box

I'm pretty much done shopping at this point and I like to spend time making fun packaging.


Lots of ways to make these boxes pop!  You could put the box in an embossing folder (lots of great options). 



I used the snowflake embossing folder.  I found that it was best to run the folder through flat (not folded as usual). By making it flat the box and folder went through more easily and it embossed on 1 side.

You can put it through the Big Shot with the folder folded (as usual) and that works fine and puts the embossed image on both sides of the box.

Another idea is to insert a piece of designer paper (12 x 4 3/8, scored at 5 ¾ from each end of the long side.  Fold and insert into the box and add in cards, or chocolates, anything.  You can wrap ribbon around the top and add an embellishment, such as the felt shapes. 

I chose the Christmas Around the World paper for these examples.



Happy packaging and happy stamping - MaryKate

Monday, November 27, 2017

Gold Striped Bags - a bag or a box

These gold striped bags are great as bags, but they are also easy to make into boxes.  


To make a box trim 1/8″ from the bottom then score at 1″ along the bottom,  then score each side at 3/4″. 

Then it’s just a couple of snips up from the bottom to the 1″ score line and you’re ready to fold and adhere.  From flat to gusseted in just a few quick and simple steps! 



I scored my bag first then ran it through the Big Shot with the Holly Embossing Folder before making the cuts.  This is a fun option for you. 


You could add a gold clip and a merry label tag for stamping.  Just add  6” of metallic edge ribbon and gold sequins and clip to the bag.  

You could add metallic washi tape, you could use gold embossing. You could stamp a “to.. From” or a mini Christmas tree from the Watercolor Set.

Super easy and I hope you try it - happy stamping, MaryKate

Sunday, November 26, 2017

The Online Sale Finishes and Free Shipping Nov 27 only

Hi 

Last day today to get the online sale items!

And Nov 27 - for one day - it's free shipping on all Stampin Up items.  You can click on the shopping cart to access the store, and if you use the host code, free goodies are coming your way!

I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving!  

All this week and next I'll be posting on "Easy-Peasy Packaging Ideas" ... lots of quick simple ideas to make packaging fun and pretty.

Happy crafting - MaryKate

Tuesday, November 21, 2017

Make your own Gift Bag with Matching card and envelope

We made gift bags and cards at class last night.  This is a "one sheet wonder"... you get the bag, card and envelope from 1 sheet of 12x12 paper. 




Cut your 1 sheet at the 8 ¼ mark with the pattern is “facing north” so vertical on the 8 ¼ when you sheet is cut 12 x 8 ¼ - see diagram, the arrow shows the direction of your pattern and the line is at 8 ¼.  

I used a sheet from Christmas Around the world.


Gift bag
Score at 4 ¼, 5 ¾, 10, 11 ½ on the long side.


On the short side score at 1 and 7 (7 is at the bottom of the bag) see diagram to the right.  Fold on the score lines (making a cuff for the top).  Remove 2 squares that are at the top and bottom edge of the bag that are 1 1/4 x 1/2 and 1 x 1/2.  

Cut the tabs: cut up 1 ¼ “ from the bottom. Notch the tabs. Make sure the cuff is folded over and adhere the bag together.  You’ll need to glue down the 2 corners of your cuff, I used liquid glue.  

Punch 4  1/8”  holes in the top.  Add 9” ribbon to each side of the bag. If you put something heavy inside add a piece cardboard at the bottom to reinforce it.  

Super easy - I hope you try it!

Don't forget the Online Sale and on Nov 27 we have a 24 hour sale!

Happy crafting MaryKate

Online sale continues - watercolor pencils are 1 of many products on sale

Stampin Up sale all week long and then a flash sale Mon Nov 27, here's a favorite... watercolor pencils are 20% off at $12.80. You color and then add water (or use a blender pen) and the colors come together. Easy to use, great results.

Don't forget to use the host code to get your free goodies!

Happy Stamping
MaryKate


Sunday, November 19, 2017

24 hour flash sale on Stamps Nov 20 2017 only!


It's the season to have a sale!  I can't believe Thanksgiving is coming up this week and then the holiday shopping frenzy begins in stores everywhere!  Stampin' Up is having their annual sale for lots of gifts for you and maybe your crafty friends, too.  It all starts Monday, Nov 20th and runs through Nov 26th.


Then on November 27th, there will be a special 24-hour flash sale after other Online Extravaganza deals end on the 26th.  Make sure to check back here for the announcement and more details! (even I don't know what it is yet!)
24-Hour Stamp Sale on Monday, November 20th!
I've uploaded the list of all stamp sets and put it into the Shopping Deals and Catalogs Tab
and here's a link


My favorite... the big numbers with the matching dies is now 20% off :)
And the Cool Treats (with all the ice cream cones!)

If you use the host code you get a free item from me at the end of the month!
Happy shopping, MaryKate

Saturday, November 18, 2017

Picture Perfect Celebrations

A fun card to celebrate someone special – you know who you are! 


The design is from our team's weekly challenge... at first .. what was I going to make with this sketch? Then it came to me overnight (my brain seems to do better when I sleep!). I'll post what my team mates make, next week. 

This is a new set in the upcoming catalog and it’s designed mainly for birthdays but I think works great as a congratulations card.

Lots of fun stamps – I love these party streamers.

A little silver foil edge on the card, the chevron and the square of streamers add some sparkle.

And the new Berry Burst Silver Metallic ribbon, love it!  I’ve order 2 reels in case of backorders J

We’ll play with this in January, this is just a sneak peak! 


Next week there's a big Online sale - stay tuned for details - stamp sets 20% off.  

And there will be flash sales all week, so I'll post early each day as I get the news.


Happy crafting, MaryKate

Friday, November 17, 2017

27,000 Stamparatus SOLD OUT in 10 minutes! Reserve re-opens Dec 5

Remember that I posted about the new Stamparatus?

The tool that makes stamping easy, with perfect placement, just the right pressure (no halos) ... more later on these details.



SU opened a "reserve" yesterday (they ship Feb 1 and your credit card is only charged after they ship)... they sold 27,000 yup, that's not an extra zero... sold out in 10 minutes.

Is that crazy or what!? I ordered 3 (that was my limit), let me know if you want one.. and the reserve window opens again Dec 5. I guess 2100 demonstrators ooooohhhhs and aaaahhs at their big convention got it right! I can't wait to play with mine.

Here's the video on this fun new tool.




I'll post a reminder about Dec 5 reserve window - you really will want one of these !!




happy stamping! MaryKate

PS is the plural of this tool Stamparati ??? ;)

Thursday, November 16, 2017

Last swaps - Faith, Love & Hugs using Ribbon of Courage

The last swaps from my talented team mates.  

I call this Faith, Love & Hugs as we all used the Ribbon of Courage set but used 2 of the sentiments.





Jovita Smith created this card with the Dragonfly.  I love the texture on this card. She used embossing paste with the brick stencil and then sponged with Powder Pink. 

The dragonfly is in early espresso as is the matching layer.
I like how the dragonfly and the layer have the same thin lines. 

Kozette Bennett created this fun fold (base is 4 ¼ x 11, scored at 2 ¾ and 5 1/2 .  She used the Floral designer paper in the same powder pink with the Flirty Flamingo oval and flowers.  The faceted gem and die cut flower and leaves are so delicate.  Love it!


Karen Shirer created this copper embossed Ribbon of Courage card.  The copper layer, the copper embossing of the ribbon and sentiment are so pretty. 

And finally here’s mine.  Same set, also Flirty Flamingo with silver edge ribbon, sassy heart framelits and embossed layers (leaves on top, polka dot on the bottom). 



Happy stamping – and if you are shopping – please use the host code (top right) and you will get a free surprise item at the end of the month!   Happy crafting, MaryKate

Wednesday, November 15, 2017

More Swaps - Think Pink with Fabulous Flamingo and Merry (Valentine) Labels

More swaps – I call this post Think Pink


Julie Robinson’s Fabulous Flamingo is well.. Fabulous!  Here colors of Flirty Flaming, Bermuda Bay and Lemon Lime Twist are so cute.  And using just these 3 colors for all the stamping makes it so coordinated.



The embellishments of matching Bermuda ribbon, the black rhinestone, the metallic doily make it wow.  

I also like the use of the marble background stamp.  Can you see it on top of the lemon lime layer?   

This is a fun set and uses the double stamping technique to get the 2 colors of the flamingo.


Janey Baker’s card uses the current Merry Labels and extends this set for Valentine’s Day.  I love the Flirty Flamingo with Crumb Cake and Copper.



Can you see the copper ribbon and the copper embossing?  I hope my photo picks up the shine on this card. 



The softly falling folder adds just enough texture. 

Tomorrow – Faith, Love and Hugs will be the theme of the next set of swaps.



Happy stamping – and if you are shopping – please use the host code (top right) and you will get a free surprise item at the end of the month!   Happy crafting, MaryKate

Tuesday, November 14, 2017

More Swaps - Sweet Cupcake, Coffee Cafe and Work of Art

More swaps – I call this one treats.


This Sweet Cupcake card is from Susan Morrison.  This card really works with great color coordination of Bermuda Bay, Crushed Curry and Flirty Flamingo. 

Susan used the Sweet Cupcake set that has triple stamping, so she stamped the top of the cupcake 3 times with lighter and darker shades so the icing looks yummy!


I like the details, the stitched shapes, the coordinating curry twine, the use of the softly falling embossing folder (not just for winter), and the wink of stella for a little bit of sparkle.








Susan Duvall used the Work of Art set to make the watermelon.  Real Red and Garden Green – with the matching Garden Green ribbon – make this as easy but wow card. 

And you know I love the Coffee Cafe set (also by Susan Duvall).  I like the use of the Coffee Break designer paper, the matching soft sky ribbon and her layering. 

Tomorrow – Think Pink will be the theme of the next set of swaps.



Happy stamping – and if you are shopping – please use the host code (top right) and you will get a free surprise item at the end of the month!   Happy crafting, MaryKate

Monday, November 13, 2017

Stamparatus -- this is wow! easy perfect placement - make multiple cards quickly

I have to interrupt Swap Week – I just got the news and must share!!



Stampin' UP! introduces the Stamparatus a one of a kind Stamp Positioner Tool 
Reserve yours beginning November 16th at 4pm EST.

Your credit card is needed to reserve but will NOT be charged until it ships February 1, 2018.

Keep reading for all the details and video to see it in action.. we saw this in Salt Lake and instantly wanted one.  Click on the video and you’ll see why 2100 demonstrated went “ooooooohhhhh”




You must create a customer profile - CLICK HERE TO DO SO

Cost is $49.00  plus tax/ship.  If I could order today I would and let you play... but I have the same reservation process and wait... 


STAMPARATUS Reservation Questions 

Q: How do I reserve my Stamparatus?
A: Normally you order Stampin' Up! products through the online store; in this case, you will click the RESERVE link on the Stamparatus page which will take you to the reservation page. For step-by-step instructions, please see the How to Reserve Your Stamparatus Tutorial for Customers.

Q: What if I do not have a Stampin' Up! customer account?
A: To reserve a Stamparatus, you must have a customer account. To create one, click Create Account on the online store.

Q: Why does it take so long for the Stamparatus to ship?
A: We will place an order with the manufacturer based on how many reservations are made during a reservation window. Shipping dates depend on how long it takes the order to arrive in our warehouse after the tools have been manufactured.

Q: Am I billed at the time I reserve my Stamparatus?
A: No. However, a credit card is required to reserve the product.

Q: When will I be charged for the Stamparatus?
A: When inventory arrives in the warehouse, we will add your reservation to a shopping cart. We will then send you an email notifying you that your Stamparatus order is ready. Once you finalize payment and close your order, the system will charge your credit card.

Q: Will I be able to add other products to my Stamparatus reservation?
A: No. However, once your reservation is transferred to your shopping cart, you will then be able to addother items to your order. Important note: Please do not delete the Stamparatus from your order. Wewill not be able to add it back and you will lose your reservation.

Q: Will I be able to update my address and credit card information when I open my shopping bag tocomplete my order?
A: Yes.

Q: What if I change my mind and want to cancel my reservation?
A: You can cancel your reservation at any time. To cancel, please see the How to Reserve YourStamparatus Tutorial for Customers




Q: When I close my order in February, can I take advantage of current Stampin' Up! promotions?
A: Yes and this is important as if you reserve for February shipping, with an additional $1 on your order you’ll get a Sale-A-Bration item (more in January on these items)

Q: Can I participate in all three reservation periods (Nov, Feb, April?)
A: Yes.

Q: How many stamp placement tools can I reserve per reservation window?
A: For customers, there is a limit of 1 per reservation window. For demonstrators, we can reserve 3… so want more than 1?  - talk to me about joining before the 16th of November.


Let me know what you think! Can't wait to hear your reactions - happy stamping MaryKate