Pretty Pressings

… for everything you are to me

2012-01-29T13:56:00.001-05:00

~~I just listed this card for sale in my ETSY shop – since it is a Valentines card .. I offer free upgrade on Priority Mail shipping (domestically)~~ sold – Thank you so much dear Heidi mwah!!

Hello friends… sorry my postings are recently kept short. Lucas and I have the flu and feel really crabby. Hubby took the little guy out to get some stuff for the fridge. Hopefully tomorrow I will feel much better. I got a order from a local photographer to make some baby crochet things to use as photo props and I was quite busy to get a few things made for her too. It is always nice to see the hats on a real baby.. the photos you take at home are just not the same!!!

When I had last week a look at Krista’s new digi release, the image with this more “grown up” girl stood out to me. Thought it she would be nice in my collection because she is somewhat in between teenager or even adult. Would make a nice card for a girl friend who’s not so much into the really cutesy stuff. speaking of which… my friends here are ALL not into that hahahaha

Image: Saturated Canary ”Love Letters”
The sentiment and the label stamp is by Stampin up. The Sentiment was stamped onto contrasting paper, cut out and than adhered with pop up dots to raise it up a bit.
Papers are by My Minds Eye, Ribbon is a very old unfortunately retired color by Stampin up, flowers and a vintage key charm, a square paper doily has been used to decorate the front and the inside.
The inside panel where the handwritten note goes, is stamped with swirls by Stempelglede and is not permanently adhered. This way it can be easily removed to add the note and glued permanently back in later on.

As always.. iam grateful for your comments or even your time to come and see what I have been up to. Love xoxoxox
Claudi

what a girl needs …

2012-01-28T20:10:00.001-05:00

are some cute accessories.. everyone knows that

My friends adorable daughter modeled some crochet things I have made. She was totally rocking it as soon I put the camera down.. her smile was gone and I asked her.. are you bored and she said “yes”. I said just a couple of more and her smile was right back on. So funny that girls know all the poses. I could not have asked my boys to do anything like that. giggle

The hats have been made sometimes last week.. the scarf already around Christmas.. the yarn is really amazing.. really does not show any pilling or wear. All items can be purchased over on my ETSY – the hats (brown hat – ecru hat) are in stock and the scarf takes about 4 days to make. The hats are 100% organic cotton and soft as a feather.

vintage set

2012-01-26T14:42:00.001-05:00

Hello friends,
tried myself in some vintage inspired crafts. The entire set was inspired by this cute vintage key I found before Christmas at Michaels. I had planned to make eigher Christmas invites (attach them with a tag to the key) or Wedding invites. Oh well.. I guess making like 10 or more just scared me at the end. I have a few more keys and plan to alter them during the year.

Not sure if it shows on my pic.. I have added a little square paper doily behind the tag to hide the ribbons and the seam where I adhered the vintage clock on. Turned out to be not only useful but it really rounds the look up – I think.

~~This set was listed on Etsy~~ I just saw it has been sold while I was getting all the links for my posting. Thank you so very much dear Isabel for your purchase! I will ship tomorrow to you. hugs

Stamps: Magnolia Sweet Crazy Love Collection
Tilda sending love letter
Celebration Tilda
14. February sentiment

Celebration Tilda
Thank you so very much dear Nicole MMMMMMMwwWAAAHHHHHH!!!!

Tim Holtz clock die
Unique die cuts (Butterflies and leaves)
The Ribbon Girl: ribbon slider, hemp and crochet ribbon
Pion DP

See ya!
xoxoxox

Love you much

2012-01-24T13:56:00.001-05:00

Hei friends.. sorry I have been absent for a few day… so much stuff going on at the moment at home that I have a hard time getting around with everything. Managed to make a card with a image dear Sonja ordered from me. Love this cute image… I have made one using this image last year. The card is a little smaller than 6x6 inches.. I have found it works well for my LOVT images and also helps me to slide my card easier in my clear Acetate envelopes when I use those larger roses.

Lili of the Valley Special Offers

If you are looking for some lovely stamps, suitable for Springtime cards, at an amazing price - then look no further! There is more than 30% discount on these stamps, at only £3.00 each, so get them now whilst they are at this great price. For card inspiration with some of these stamps, check out our Ideas to Inspire Blog in the next month!

LOVT: The little Things
Sentiment, Stampin up
Paper: My Minds Eye
Spellbinder circle and lacy circle
Embellishments: WOC,Prima Marketing, Websters Pages Sparkler, Paper Doily, The Ribbon Girl, Tim Holtz, Recollections
Schuhe: W6/0/3
Hintergrund: Slate Grey
Haare: E50/31/Dark umber
Boden: W00/YG93 olive green
Gesicht: E000/00/R20/13 Terra Cotta
Kleider: R32/30/00/35/24 warm grey 90%
B0000/06/02 true blue, cool grey 90%
E44/43/47/41 Warm Grey 90%

sitting on the window ledge.. wondering … how are you?

2012-01-20T11:49:00.001-05:00

Well…. if you have seen my “coloring” posting … this is the finished card I have made with the Hanglar Stanglar image. I hope you like it …. sorry English is not my first language and it is still hard to explain things. I think next time when I try to explain things I might just write in German and offer for you guys that Google blogger translator gadget. Might be a good option.

this weeks challenge on Just Magnolia/Just Hanglar Stanglar….
Use windows (in any kind or form) or doors on your card – think folds or shaker cards

Satin ribbon and crochet ribbon is from the Ribbon Girls

As always with love!!!!
Claudi

Coloring progress

2012-01-19T17:49:00.001-05:00

Hi… today I want to just post a few snap shots I took while I was working on a image. I am aware the photo quality is poor and I really did not spent any time getting the photos lighter.. I was not intending to actually write a coloring tutorial.
The process of this specific image was a bit different, so I would just like to share a few thoughts or remarks on it.

The images you see are by Hanglar Stanglar.. the focal point image is going to be very large – therefore I had to choose a patterned paper that gives me on very small areas enough colors so I can tie them in together with my image. I liked with this image along with the “Get Well” sentiment a rather vintage look. The pad I decided on is a old one from Basic Grey called “Sugared”

Usually I would start with the face and move from there on clothes, hair etc. etc...if I have a larger image I want to make sure that I distribute my colors in the right spots – by example the pinks… what happened to me in the past was that I would neatly color a image in.. just to notice at the end when it came to the last few areas that I ran out of colors or the balance was not even.

Most of the time I think you will be told that Copic ink needs to be wet in order to be blended out. This is of course correct, I have found … if I just lay one shade of my medium colors onto the image – it gives me an idea if the areas with the colors work together and I can still move on adding my shades. It does take time and work but it will be smooth and there are not going to be harsh lines.

I always color the face in first, it is just the start for me and it helps my eye to get used to the image and the vision I have of my image. Next I colored the frame of the window in brown – still leaving lots of white space. The inside of the window frame became grey.. from there I went to the shoes, I wanted them to be grey as well.

I decided on a piece of Design paper to see where the colors of my pattern would be.
From there I decided that the curtain needed to be pink (large area), trim in green and than small areas like socks, bows and shirt pink as well. Since the large area on the curtain was pink, the next larger area is the dress and I would need to be the second dominant contrast color. Hope this makes sense? To this point I did really not spent much time on the coloring process… it is just laying colors down to see if I like it, i would not mind at this point to start all over again.

Next you see a little more color come to the image. I like to color with the YG91 range however.. there are not the colors available that I would love to have so it takes me a bit to blend those colors out. Usually what I have to do is add deeper or richer colors to my other areas.. as you can see the balance on the curtain does not fit quite right with the greens. The green is too heavy. Window frame, wood.. has not depth to this point.. Just added a few shades of browns to the hair.

a little bit more blended moving on to add more colors to shoes, curtain etc.. I let the ink dry in between and just carefully add more color over it with a light hand.

Still not finished…adding my background to the image.. the wall in French Grey and the Window in Slate Grey. Now that I have all my colors on my image I can see where the image needs more color or depth. Adding the backgrounds to my images PRIOR to working on my shades on clothes makes a big difference for me. It just helps me personally to find the balance of each colored area – sometimes I might used a too dark background and I need to adjust all over the image again and make it darker, so it works over all.

On my finished card you will see that I worked with greys, black and darker pinks to create my shadows and folds – I went much darker around her legs and on the window bench.. her hair becomes more shades of brown and the folds on her bows get defined.

Here are the colors I used on this image:
Face: E000/000/00/13/R21 (Henna)
Greens: YG91 I always use this color for the first base moving up to 93/97/ W5 blending with YG0000
pinks: R81 blending with RV000 adding R85 blending with R81 and RV 0000 – it is a constant progress of adding colors and keep blending it out to create the folds
Window: First base is E31 adding E34/33
Hair : E50/ E37/25 black
shoes and window: W2/3/5/6/7/ 8 E44/42
accents on curtain: Y23/E99

Multi pen in 0.1 to connect lines after masking, white gel pen,

hi I am Dorothy

2012-01-18T13:41:00.001-05:00

I just listed this card on Etsy..

Hei there.. omg.. I have not been able to post my Saturated Canary cards to my blog for awhile. I have been coloring several images for a submission call. Fingers crossed. Krista just released a large new collection of images and I could certainly not resist to get a few.

Iam sure you can tell iam ready for Spring… seams like I completely “skipped” this time the pink/brown/red Valentines section lol.. I guess I have to use some more of these papers before it is too late.

Supplies: Saturated Canary “Dorothy” digi image, Making Memories paper pad 6x6, flowers, paper doily in round and square (for the inside), ribbons are by Stampin up (yellow and blue), Magnolia Doo Hickey Flagg die

can it get much happier ?

2012-01-16T17:40:00.001-05:00

~~This card is for sale on Etsy~~ - SOLD – THANKS dear Isabel

I just love those Basic Grey Sugar Rush papers… they are just “happy” papers. Unfortunately I am almost out of my pretty papers. I guess I have to look on Ebay to find a extra pad.

The cute image is by Lili of the Valley it was released in the latest release and is called “buckets of love” the sentiment comes with the image.

Other supplies used on the card were: Basic Grey Sugar Rush 6x6, Cuttlebug die, chipoard or coasters, wild orchid crafts flowers, stickles, ticket making memories, button and ribbon from stash, Spellbinder pinking circles

OH.. before I forget … check out the new challenge from the ribbon girl… loooove the vintage ribbon kit !!!!

one image – twice different

2012-01-14T11:23:00.001-05:00

THIS CARD IS FOR SALE ON MY ETSY SITE

Hello ladies… today I have want to show you my first “new” Lili of the Valley since the restructure of the Design Team. Some may have noticed that I have not been using the images in a while and the changes that have been going on over on the site.
The team got some new instructions and terms just prior to Christmas and I also had to have a think if I can commit to the new requirements, over the holidays.

I do not want to go into all details obviously because it is not important for my readers but one of the instructions is that we now will get given themes and / or more given images we are going to use during a month. The image I used on my card I was able to choose myself out of the “Love” line. I always adored this cute image “on the Garden wall” very much and had it for quite a long time on my list to make a card with.

The other probably more exciting and interesting news for readers and Lili of the Valley fans are that from now on the Lili of the Valley Inspiration site will feature way more ideas how to use the images on 3D projects or just simply different things than just a card. Each Designer is going to tackle per month a task. So have a look on the blog to see what is being posted- I think it is time well spent to hop to the site more frequently to see what has been posted.

Now if you read my blog for a while, you know that iam certainly NOT a big “3D item” maker. I simply have a very hard time finding inspiration and ideas. For me, making a different shaped card, is already making something out of the ordinary, lol. One and probably the biggest reason for me is that all my friends who live here are not interested in stamping or handmade gifts. Therefore everything I make, needs to be easy and light weight to mail. For my personal needs I can not alter, by example a candle which is going to be expensive on shipping costs and possibly damage the card I would add to my parcel. Anyhooo… long story short.. I just like cards the most because I find them most usable for me personally. I do understand that each and everyone has different interests and I think it is understandable that it makes sense to show how differently images can be used. However, my focus is and always will be the card making.

For the my February 3 D project I went with a “usable” post it cover. Easy to make, cute at the same time and a nice gift idea. Just measure your post it note pad, cut paper a little bigger, score 3x (for the fold on the spine usually 1/4 inch works always well) fold and decorate.

And yes… I was sneaky and took the colored image off the holder, after I took my photos and created a card with the image. Lets call that… a good way to show “how to use the same image in 2 different ways” "

Love Claudia

Shabby Chic j’adore

2012-01-12T15:02:00.001-05:00

Hello ladies… I guess it is quite obvious how much I like this new collection. I think I got almost every stamp out of it. I love the cards Nicole made these days using the new stamps combined with the pretty My Minds Eye papers. Girl.. you are my inspiration!!! I looked through my stash and though Paris – Chocolate… good to me Since there are some letters on the paper I skipped this time the sentiment. Keeps it rather neutral and the eye does not have to take in too much. See this little felt bird on the large with rose? My recent find at Michaels. Love it.. got a bunch of different felt embellies before they are all gone. So happy to see finally again some new “stuff” there that I like.
What else… hmmm.. played a bit with shadows on the image.. used Distress crackle paint to alter the corners (too bad the Snow Tex can not be used anymore lol) and stamped the large Eiffel Tower from the Shabby Chic Collection 2008 to the inside to match the front of the card. That’s it.

This card is for sale on my Etsy site

Sweet Crazy Love Collection
Tilda with wrapped heart
Eiffel Tower – to stamp the inside

Coloring: Copics
Papers: My Minds Eye
Flowers, feathers, lace, Felt bird from stash
corners have been painted with crackle paint

Usually I do not like to post too many pics of my cards.. but this one had to go up.. just like how she “looks” at me

Thanks a bunch

2012-01-10T13:23:00.001-05:00

Hei there….. well.. guess this card does not really fit into the season. I did make this sample back in June/July 2011 for a book submission. Emphasis was how to color backgrounds and folds just with Copic markers in. The card made it to the final cut but was than denied because it had too many layers. I still like this card. The photos look a bit odd – the card is in real not so “bright”. Speaking of bright.. I am so lucky.. my husband noticed how upset I was about the broken bulbs, so he ordered for me new ones. They have arrived yesterday and they give me really bright light, much lighter than the ones I had before.. best part. They were less money! We spent around 40 bucks for 4 daylight bulbs (they were on sale and had free shipping) vs. the ones I broke 1 bulb did cost $27.00 I think you can understand now why I was so upset breaking them.

Well I should go, I must crochet a baby hat, a kind lady ordered through Etsy. I want to post all my mail today.

Garden Tilda – she is on sale
Apple Basket
Magnolia border die

Sentiment: Stampin up
Paper: Maja Design
Ribbons; Stampin up
crochet lace and hemp from The Ribbon Girls

A very useful sleepy kitten

2012-01-09T14:33:00.001-05:00

Hello friends… sorry no card today I used all my free time to get this little measuring tape crocheted for my friends birthday parcel. She has a cute little black cat and I thought is reject able measuring tape would be quite useful for her. Well.. as you can tell.. it was my very first time embroidering. Definitely needs lots of improvement hahaha. I had no pattern for “sleeve” or cat the ears took me the longest to get done. I was never happy with the shape – most of them reminded me of bunny ears. this one has to work, I can not get it done better and it is finished now lol.

Sweet little Daisy Girl

2012-01-08T12:00:00.001-05:00

Hello there.. hope you all have a fantastic weekend. Here in Michigan the weather warmed up a bit and it is quite nice.

Sorry for the bad quality of my pictures. clumsy me… I hooked my foot inside the stands of those daylight lamps and nocked them over and 2 of the very expensive light bulbs broke on me. I can not tell you how upset I was with myself!!! Now I try to rearrange the lamps and it’s just not the way it was prior. I guess I have to order myself replacement lamps cause I know the look will not stop bothering me

I just added this card into my etsy site for those of you who might be interested? thank you ladies for swinging by today.

Sweet Crazy Love Collection
Tilda with Daisy
Tildas Heartflower Background
With all my love Sentiment
Die: Tag – with sentiment Loving Corner stamp ON SALE

Spellbinder oval and scalloped, ribbon banners
Martha Stewart monarch butterfly small

Take Care Of Yourself

2012-01-05T13:31:00.001-05:00

Hello sweets… today I can post one of my cards I did submit in July 2011 to a book. This one did not make the cut along with a Magnolia card but iam happy one of my cards did make it. I can tell you in a little while more. Eventually I am going to be able to give 1 book away as candy here on my blog.

since it is been a while I made the card I can not recall too much. I know the image was colored only with Copic Markers – the Paper is by Maja Design and the cute image is by Lili of the Valley “Milly Cuddle Time”– Sentiment is Stampin up.

I as always would like to say thanks for swinging by aaaand… TAKE GOOD CARE OF YOURSELF mwah

I {heart} YOU

2012-01-04T14:05:00.001-05:00

Just a short posting with one of the new Sweet Crazy Love stamps. They are just all so adorable and it is hard to choose which ones to ink up first. Thought since this card would be really a Valentines card I go for the “I love you” stamp first and work my way up with the stamps I can use longer through out the year. When I stamped Tilda on top of the saying I lined her up with the “I “ and the “U” noticing later that her behind is hanging with out support over the heart shape " must say it really bothers me every time I look at the photo. I should have stamped her arm onto the heart and just let her foot stick out over the “u”. But than again.. the front panel would have been even larger than it is already. Oh well… I guess it is what it is.

Take care my dears.

Sweet Crazy Love Collection
Rose Scent Tilda
I love you
inside decoration: Loving corner stamp ON SALE
Papers: Pink Peony Paris – Script paper
Dies: Doo Hickey – ALL ARE ONE SALE
Swirl, Leave

A quick gift for 2012

2012-01-02T12:05:00.001-05:00

Hello friends.. here is an inexpensive gift idea for you. Perfect for little girls and the big ones too
Now is the time were you can find 2012 calendars very inexpensive at your local stores. This pocket calendar was only 50 cents, it had he pretty pink paper as cover and a clear overlay. Al I had to do was color my image and add some embellishments. My kids love those little books. I encourage them to use them to write their thoughts in. Niklas likes if I tell him it is his secret science book and I have him write one day how the weather is like or what he spies outside the window. Anyhow.. of course my kids get just the plain books lol… but this one was perfect to sent to Magnolia – the company asked the other day the Designers if we could sent something in for them to take to CHA. When I pick those kinds of books I always look for a spiral to add ribbons.. just makes it easier and frilly.

Magnolia Tilda with skateboard – The Winner Takes It All
Magnolia dies: Flag – Vintage Daisy Flower – Swirl

assorted ribbons: The Ribbon Girl
sweet heart flowers/button: The Ribbon Girl

Here is an other little cowl I have finished over the holidays using only 1 skein of the pretty Malabrigo yarn in Shocking Pink - after blocking it, the stich really showed nicely and it lays very flat. When you knit it, it does look like a large sock.

Flashback

2012-01-01T11:26:00.001-05:00

Hello… HAPPY NEW YEAR to all of you!

I noticed on some blogs postings showing the card makers favorite cards for the past year. I thought that was a great idea.

It is hard to choose because each card contains for me certain memories and is in some ways special to me. I thought I would make a selection of boy themed cards AND in addtion to pick some samples that were made using absolutely no flowers. I do not know how you feel about that but it is always an extra challenge for me. They are just awesome for extra fillers and make the card look special.

Well.. first I would love to show my Hanglar cards.. the boy images are just so cute. My absolute favorite is the skateboard guy

Here is selection of Magnolia cards with no flower treatment – managed to get some girls on the cards too.

Just because I had a lot of photos already picked for this posting I have to keep it short now here is a Lili of the Valley card and one with Mo Mannings Karate boy image.

I hope I see you tomorrow again… I was able to work on a little 3D project.
Whit Love
Claudia

Siblings

2011-12-30T11:55:00.001-05:00

Hello, finished my card I started yesterday. Currently I am working in funny ways on my cards. This one I first colored with Copics in than I just added a little depth with Prisma Color pencils (hair) the paper is very smooth.. the Prismas almost have no grip on it and than at night time I worked with Distress inks on the image to give it the water colored look. I used Going Grey and Antique Linen for it.

Well.. I got a litte note in my mailbox yesterday I have a parcel waiting for me to be picked up – yeppieee… I know my order from Sir Stampalot is here. I can not wait to go get it.

Stamps: Cuddly Siblings – Sweet Crazy Love Collection
Love- Background stamp – currently on SALE
Tag- Die – ALL MAGNOLIA dies are on SALE

Papers: My Minds Eye 6x6
Crochet lace: The Ribbon Girls
Dies: Spellbinder Circle / Cheery Lynn Designs

more crafts–coloring class

2011-12-29T13:09:00.001-05:00

Hi there.. today I have no card to show I got late this morning and just take things easy.

I just finished coloring the cute hugging brother and sister image in… or almost. working with 3 different media on this image. I must say I really enjoy coloring these days. I had just around Christmas a bad time with the coloring. Nothing really was motivating me.
I guess part was just that I wanted to finish some of the Christmas gifts I had planned to make.

Well.. speaking of coloring … some of you know that I will be coming to Germany in 2012 and I am not only looking forward to see my family but also being invited by a wonderful store to teach a class. The class is not going to be held in Germany but in an other country of Europe I have never been before. I am extremely looking forward to it ESPECIALLY knowing that I will meet some girls of you I know from the blogging world – can not say more at the moment. I will tell more about it when I know the details of my trip, I will book my flight along with the schedule of the store, so until I have no flight booked I can not say much here.

If anyone would be interested in a class while I am in Europe – I will be in Germany for about 3 weeks and I have time to teach an other class – in Germany or out of country.You could just email me at
Claudiaesrosa at hotmail.com to speak about it.

Now I would love to show you a few photos of the handmade gifts I gave this year… no surprise for some of you who read my blog regular more scarfs have been knitted

This is me wearing my brand new Herringbone cowl:
I used Malabrigo Natural cast on 220 stiches on a size 17 Addi Turbo round needle – the needle is especially important when doing this stich.

Here is a Debbie Bliss scarf all wrapped up for gift giving.

This one is used “Gap-Tastic” instructions – cast on 149 stiches in seed stich – purl 1/knit 1 off set in the round til I had 8 inches – I used about 2 complete skeins of the wonderful Malabrigo worsted in Natural and added 1 more inch from a 3 skein. Needle size used was a size 10 US. It created a soft fabric and a nice drape.

Star Tilda with moon

2011-12-28T13:56:00.001-05:00

Remember Sir Stampalot is having their END OF THE YEAR a sale!!!
You can currently add all those cute Magnolia stamps and some dies from 2011 for a really great price at the moment.
It’s a good time to add those missing stamps you always wanted and put off to purchase for later to your collection!!!

Stamps: Tilda as a star
Sweet Moon
Make a Wish – Sentiment
Star corner all by Magnolia available through Sir Stampalot

Papers: Maja Design
Ribbon, Slider, gem, Hemp – The Ribbon Girls
Silver glitter – Recollections
Spellbinder- die

Off to get some groceries for the house. I have noooo idea what I shall cook

Roses for a lifetime

2011-12-27T11:01:00.001-05:00

Hello my friends, I hope you have had a wonderful Christmas. Iam sure you all got spoiled very much from your family and friends. I am overwhelmed with the the generosity and kindness I have experienced from ALL of you. All the wonderful gifts and food we were able to give to Brandon and his family and also the gifts I have received from my friends warmed my heart. I received a card from Brandon’s grandmother, thanking all of us. I always wanted to scan it and post it to the blog. I totally forgot. I may do this tomorrow to read for those of you who donated. Thanks again on this spot!

The card is inspired by all the lovely samples I see on the Scandinavian blogs. OMG.. I could get lost in hopping from one blog to an other. I wished I could paint with Distress inks so well. I choose for this card some lovely Maja papers and have Tilda sitting in a field of flowers. All edges have been distressed and inked with Walnut ink glued down, sewed and than I used my exacto knife to pull the papers on some places off the mat. It is hard to see but I also used on the red paper mat Magnolia’s heart shaped die and there is a really pretty white ribbon from the Ribbon Girls it has hearts along the edge. Very cute.

Stamps: Pie Tilda – Sweet Crazy Love Collection

Dies: Magnolia – Dream Tag/Label
Sentiment: Stempelglede
Ribbons/Hemp: The Ribbon Girl
Embellishments: Sweet Heart Roses, red polka dot buttons and gem swirls through the Ribbon girl
Papers: Maja Design

Wild Thing or Cute Thing ?

2011-12-23T14:19:00.001-05:00

Sweet Crazy Love is now shipping through Sir Stampalot!!!

Stamps: “Wild Tilda”
Papers: Magnolia “ Bon Vojage Collection – all through Sir Stampalot
Dies: Romantic Lace – Magnolia

I want to wish to you all a very Merry Christmas, I am going to take a little break over Christmas.
Thank you so very much for your support, your sweet compliments and just simply for your time, if you click over to see me on my blog.

I will be back with a new card from the new “Sweet Crazy Love Collection” in a few days. I must say I like them a lot!

Love Claudia

Sweet Tilda with Arrow–Crazy Love

2011-12-22T12:12:00.001-05:00

I got some of the new cuties could not wait to finally be able to ink them up. Tilda with arrow was my first choice. So cute with the apple paper from Maja Design. Used my last treasured sheet of this gorge paper. I wished we in the US would be able to purchase it. Shipping from Europe is just killing me.

Stamps: Tilda with Arrow – Sweet Crazy Love 2012 – NOW SHIPPING

Supplies: Maja Design Paper
Sentiment: Stampin up
Pearls – Martha Stewart – Kars (green)
Spellbinder dies

Sir Stampalot shop will be closing for Christmas at 8pm Friday 23rd December. The shop will be re-opening for our New Year Sales at 10am on Saturday 7th January. The telephones and email will not be manned during this time. However orders can be placed online 24/7 as always.
Christmas Deliveries
The last deliveries of craft goodies before Christmas will leave our warehouse on Thursday 22nd December. All orders placed after 6pm on Thursday 22nd will not necessary be dispatched until Monday 9th January.

Monkey around

2011-12-21T11:13:00.001-05:00

Hi there..

I just have a very simple card to share.
The card is “small” only 5.5 x 5.5 – used some of those DCVW papers I went nuts with back than when the Jungle Collection came out. OMG.. I think I have like 4 pads of it and I can not stand them anymore. I added some flowers – altho the request was not add any I just looked too empty with any at all.

Stamps: Magnolia – Monkey (must say this is the cutest Monkey stamp I have seen around), Jungle Leaves
Sentiment: Lili of the Valley
Ribbons and button: The Ribbon Girl

Happy 6th Birthday

2011-12-18T12:32:00.001-05:00

to my “big” boy Niklas. I look at him and I wonder where the time was going. Iam so very proud of him. Some of you know about the health concerns we have with him, he is just an amazing little boy! Anyhow.. we have had a great time with his friends and family yesterday at the bowling alley. Today we have not been doing much but playing with new toys. He is still very much into Hotwheels

I used on my card some of my favorite My Minds Eye paper pads. I just like those “happy” colors. The ribbon, hemp some sweetheart flowers and the pretty gem button can be found at the Ribbon Girl shop.
If you have time .. swing by the Ribbon Girl blog Mary has challenge #14 posted Red/Black/Cream it will run from Sunday 18th December 2011 until Sunday 8th January 2012

Stamp: Lili of the Valley “Doggie Delight”
corner die is designed by Annelies: Ceralies shop in the Netherlands – they have some really nice dies!

Thanks my dears xoxox

Uh! now that’s pink

2011-12-17T10:09:00.001-05:00

Hi… I like to show you an other cowl I finished.

Well.. one of my friends really likes pink So I had a look for a yarn that would fit the bill.

The yarn I finally decided on was Malabrigo Worsted Merino wool in Shocking Pink. It is soooo soft and wonderful to knit with. Although the color looks like a true single color there are some shades going on because it is hand kettle dyed.
However, frogging parts is a pain.. it felts quickly. I would say it is important to make a gauge (Maschenprobe) or be sure about the stich you like to make your project with.
I liked the Herringbone stich, but I ended up making the scarf in “Patent” pattern (i believe it is called Brioche stich) because the stich looks on both sides the same and I just like the puffy appearance. I think it looks best on scarfs. I might give “Herringbone” an other chance later.

I know the stich on the scarfs looks like a simple knit/purl (links/rechts) combination of stiches but in fact a Patent pattern gives you a much more volumes stich than just the knit purl version. You also need about 1/2 more yarn to the the length you like your final project to be. Most of the “patent” patterns only evolve within 10 rows nicely. You knit 2 rows, but only 1 row does show nicely. It is hard to explain. I did try to find a YouTube video to link how this stich is made but I could not find any… there are about 100 different variations of this stich. I have made a cardigan for myself with this stich when I was 16 . Back than we learned stuff like this in school – Hauswirtschaftsklasse giggle

Here is how I made mine:
cast on 152 stiches with a size 11 US round needle for a size medium

1 Row: k1/ p1 to end – set stich marker for beginning of row
2 Row: k1/ p1 in stich below – let stich or loop drop over the stich you have made from the row above – repeat
3 Row: k1 in stich below – let stich or loop drop over the stich you have made from the row above / p1 – repeat
knit until about 11 inches or in my case I used 2 complete skeins
bind off loosely with a needle size 15 or better size 17 if you have

oh – and BTW… for me this is not a pattern I can knit while watching TV I need to look where I have to stich every other time in the loop below – but it was okay anyways. I found the result rewarding

- unfortunately I had no time to block this scarf ( you can tell by the rows.. some are not laying straight) – I had to post it yesterday, but I think it’s okay – the scarf is going to wound around the neck anyways.

I have one more skein of this pretty color and I started yesterday night a second cowl to give to my beautiful friend Michele. I will show it to you soon. It is so easy – you can get it done with in 2 days
cast on 96 stiches with a US size round 10
knit 4 / pull 4 repeat until skein is finished
you got to block this style heavily – I think I will be done with mine by Monday – blocking by Wednesday and done by Thursday. I might try to steam block the first time.

Iam officially Done, D-O-N-E …

2011-12-16T16:04:00.001-05:00

With my Christmas cards for 2011 whoohoo!
Today I was mailing my last present out. I had to pull 2 all-nighter to get it finished but it is on the way – destination North Carolina lol!

I have made this card in October – I have not seen this Tilda very often. Thought she was quite cute for New Years / Silvester greeting cards.
Well.. I am off now.. we have family visiting from Canada for Niklas birthday on Sunday. Seams like have not been at my craft table for a long time. I am itching to get a chance on Monday.

Stamps: Tilda sparkels
Dies: Bloomy Tag
Inside decoration: shooting stars

New Collection “Sweet Crazy Love 2012” Valentines is up for pre-order at Sir Stampalot

more news and a project

2011-12-15T11:26:00.001-05:00

Hello my dear friends… I would like to start off my posting for today to let you know some more info's about the fundraiser for Brandon and his family.

I am so amazed about all your comments unbelievable generous donations and what the stores do to help.
First let me tell you about what Janice from Sir Stampalot offered to do to help:
Hero Arts Debut Party
Don't Forget
Tomorrow - Thursday 15th December
5pm - 8pm

In store at Sir Stampalot, Peterborough

We are so excited about tomorrow. The brand new Hero Arts stamp designs and new 2012 catalogue will be on display in the shop AND we'll be holding a FREE "make and take" session using some of the cool new products*. You can see all the designs online here in our What's New section :
New Hero Arts Designs. Free Parking, Free Refreshments and lots of Lovely Inspiration !

*Although our we are offering a Free "make and take" session, we will greatfully recieve any voluntary donations for Claudia Rosa's fund raising to help 4 dear little boys.
Read about their story here.

Irina Blount from Lala-Land Crafts offered to help me with her gift box on her facebook page after I experienced problems with Ebay – I tell you Ebay was no joke they scared me.
Krista Smith from Saturated Canary stamps is offering a portion of the sale that has been made with in 1 week off this super cute boy image.
Would you please consider to take some time and check the sites out, please? Thank you so much ladies!!!! FOR EVERYTHING!

Even Magnolia Sweden offered to help, but unfortunately I could not accept the items they said I could raffle away – I think I would have upset some of my fellow Design Team Mates. I was just worried about it. I just wanted everyone know that Magnolia, Sweden cares and is kind and giving as well.

Stamps on card: Magnolia Tilda Holding Tag
Dies: Bloomy Tag / Edwins Lace
Stamps on box: Merry Christmas seal – Swirl Vine
Dies: Heart die

Little angel

2011-12-13T15:22:00.001-05:00

pewh… sorry for being tardy with my posting. I am still trying to get my Christmas stuff in order and Niklas’ birthday is this Sunday. Stress, stress, stress lol next year I will do it all different suuure . Do you have all your presents already? I am seriously getting worried. The “problem” is that the kids have not really said anything what they want. They switch from one TV commercial to the next, what the like.

Lucky me, I still find some Christmas cards I had made in October, which I have not published on my blog yet. I love the Magnolia papers, too bad that they are only being printed for one year and than they are gone. I really should have purchased more of those. I like them so much.

Stamps: Halo Tilda
Die: Magnolia – Bloomy Tag die
Papers: Magnolia 2010 Christmas

Speaking of Christmas gifts… did you see Sir Stampalot has Magnolia Mini stamps on a very good clearance price. You eventually want to check them out here. Really affordable now and they make always great stocking stuffers.

inexpensive gift idea

2011-12-12T14:09:00.001-05:00

Hei there.. today I would love to show you some wooden gift boxes I altered to give to some of my friends. They are already at their houses and iam able to show them on my blog now.

These boxes are made from plain unfinished wood – so they take easily any kind of paint you can get them in the $1.00 bin I was earlier today at Michaels and noticed that they are now all marked down to .50 cents a piece. I did alter them before with some Aridiondack paint dapper or the ones I show you today are even easier coated with some Glimmer Mists. Once the box has completely dried, you can start stamping and decorating. I used on all of my boxes a beautiful swirl stamp out of the Magnolia collection. (Memento ink worked fine) Than I traced or filled in the the lines with Stickles glue.

To decorate the top I used mostly dies from Magnolia – this Bloomy tag die and THIS “Simple Tag” one The flowers are by Wild Orchid Crafts, Bells are from the dollar store. Other embellishments (large snowflake, gem border stickers, swirls and golden pine cones) are by Recollections found at Michaels as well.

Stamps used are Holding Tilda – in Mini _ (did you know Sir Stampalot carries Mini stamps as well) and regular size – Sentiment 25 North pole is also by Magnolia and can found at Sir Stampalot.

For those of you who were watching and willing to bid on Ebay on the Fundraiser items I was to list… iam so sorry.. I received this morning an email from Ebay. The site has certain rules which did not allow me to list the items. I either had to take the listings down or they would permanently make changes to my Ebay account. Which would limit me to buy and sell in the future. There were all sorts of paragraphs listed in the message and it was kind of scary. I ‘m sorry for all the trouble I did try my best. Again.. I would like to thank everyone who did try to help me and the family.

as always with love
Claudia

FUNDRAISER EBAY LISTINGS

2011-12-10T13:16:00.001-05:00

are up and running ladies…

please have a look

avoid the crowded malls, come and stroll the Ebay listings offering you wonderful supplies and samples for your beloved card making hobby!

EVERY AUCTION starts at only .99 cents and is listed with free shipping

very kind and generous supporter has offered to not only donate the item but also cover the shipping fees to your house! so please…. it does not matter which country you are from.. please put your bid in.

I was able to provide for the family this week 4 pairs of really needed winter boots, 5 sets of gloves and a large Gift Card from a grocery store.

The lady wants you to know how grateful she is for everything you guys have given to her and those children.

Also make sure to swing by the Stampbasket!!

Janet is having a fundraiser for the children on her site and her wonderful Design Team has made cards all week long for the good cause to promote.

THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH!!!

With Love

Claudia

Smootch

2011-12-08T12:13:00.001-05:00

Hello friends… today I like to show you the second option made for Pamela to give a card to her husband. With this card I wanted to offer her a card using more traditional colors flowers and ribbon.

The coloring on this card took me quite a while. I was just stuck with the dark sky – night time and it went on forever.. making it dark, being unhappy, taking some off, adding more shades on other spots. I don’t know…sometimes it’s just not flowing as easy. The image is super cute from Lili of the Valley and I think it would be so cute to give the husband with a little love note in the inside. Very romantic.

Stamps: Lili of the Valley – under the Mistletoe
Sentiment: Magnolia – through Sir Stampalot
Papers: Echo Park

I will let you go now but not before I would like to tell you something about Angie’s company there are some fabulous news – in case you have not heard about it already.

New CardMaker Blog and Little Darlings Giveaway

CardMaker is launching a new blog . You have to check it out! To top it off, today, they are featuring Little Darlings rubber stamps!!! You can also find a Little Darlings feature spot in the "Our Favorite Products" section in the January issue of CardMaker, currently on sale. There is an awesome prize you can win too… Angie is giving away some Little Darlings rubber stamps to one random commenter on . The winner will be selected by random.org on December 15th.

Angie is giving away 5 LD stamps, one from each of the first 5 releases. Here are the names of the stamps: Up, Up and Away / Catch A Falling Star / Art 101/ Pumpkin Races / Every Stocking Counts

North pole

2011-12-07T10:42:00.001-05:00

update: please check out Tab’s cupcake she has made for Brandon’s fundraiser!!

Hello friends… pewh.. I think iam officially done with Christmas cards. I think iam going to make 1 last one tomorrow with one of my cute Nellie images – they are just so adroable and I got myself 3 of them!!! after that I really should put my Christmas boxes put away and find my other things. Not sure yet how many Valentines cards iam going to make. think think.. oh well…. I will see , I think Easter is my favorite time.

I was contacted by Pamela if I would be able to make for her a Lili of the Valley Christmas card she could give to her husband. She let me create pretty much what I liked the only thing she asked for was that the card would have these big sparkly snowflakes on I used on several of my cards this year.

I would like to show today the first option I have made for her. The first card uses just snowflakes as embellishments and I stuck with non frilly embellishments. I always like to add a bow to my cards but by using hemp instead of ribbon – I think it does give a different look.

I have “frosted” the ground, circular sentiment and the panel used in the inside with a frame made from Twinklets. The inside also has one of those big snowflakes and I tied a little bow to the center of it.

Stamps: Lili of the Valley “Tobaggan for two”
Sentiment: Magnolia – through Sir Stampalot
The Ribbon Girls – Polka Dot ribbon, green hemp and the beautiful sparkel button
Cute Stamps and Cards: Stickles, Copics, felt snowflakes, clear gem stickers, glue, foam pads

Blog Candy Winners – 3 Gift Vouchers

2011-12-06T13:46:00.001-05:00

Wow.. what a lucky day for me I was able to announce 2 blog candies. Lori won the Magnolia candy on my Magnolia only blog.
today I am going to close the candy kindly sponsored by Stop and Scrap! Thank you every one who participated and of course Maria for sponsoring this candy!

Will the following ladies please contact me via email? I will give you than your codes to shop

Regina H. – Her Entry on Facebook $25 dollars
Solveig – $ 10 I have picked one winner from the entries left with Mr. Linky no 37– sorry for the confusion
Danielle – $10.00 from the entries left in the comment box.
Christine O. = 1x 10.00 also left a comment in the box

I have some more updates on my fundraiser for you.
Whiff of Joy’s product goodie bag is valued around 100 Euros
Nikki from Bunny Zoe’s crafts is going to sponsor 5 Magnolia stamps – your choice!!!
Chris Dark is sponsoring this absolutely beautiful card
Nicole is sponsoring this lovely card.
Thank you also to:
Christina Carstensen for a money donation
and Michelle Mallet and Mine Kessler for posting clothes.

I was able thanks to all your generous donations to provide for each child a pair of new boots – I was told by the school the kids really needed some.

all my owls have been sold last night for the good cause. Thank you to:
Asela Hopkins , Shaunna Lasley and Kim's Crafty Apple who purchased one for the good cause. They are going to be posted tomorrow.

If you like me to make one for you, please email me to Claudiaesrosaathotmail.com
Thanks
Claudia

Advents calendar Shutter #5

2011-12-05T08:25:00.001-05:00

Hello welcome to the annual Magnolia Advents calendar. Today we are opening shutter no 5. Enter and I will draw a winner of the entries left. The candy is open on my Magnolia only for blog 24 hours!
If you like this card… iam going to sell this card this week Saturday on Ebay for the fundraiser I started for Brandons’ family. I have many wonderful sponsors donating stamps, supplies, dies and other handmade things. Each auction is going to start at only 99 cents and 100% of the money raised will go to the family in need. If you like to know more about the cause – please read here more about the fundraiser.
I got over the weekend a few more emails of wonderful donations and also some things I can list on

Ebay. Thanks EVERYONE, besides the stores and blogs I listed yesterday I want to thank today

Simon Says – Heidi for donating a VERY generous money donation!!!
Waltzing Mouse Stamps – Claire is going to give 6 LARGE sets of her collection – yummy
Saturated Canary is going to donate sales of one of her new forth coming digi stamps for 1 week – iam going to post/link to that stamp that counts once the stamp is up for sale – Thank you Krista
Bev has her absolutely stunning card up on her blog today she is going to donate and
Katharina is giving this wonderful card along with a Whiff of Joy mystery box
Carole is going to make one of her super cute crochet works – it is going to be a cat

Stamps: Magnolia Tilda with bell, Trees and Magnolia tree die available for purchase at Sir Stampalot or any other fine retailer
Papers are by Maja Design
Stickles and Snow tex for texture

Good Luck and Merry Christmas

Needlework

2011-12-04T11:26:00.001-05:00

Hello ladies… time for my weekend update on this weeks needle work

First I want to show my very first owl – finished last night. I thought I would raffle a family of 3 owls (one more with body in green and one with a body in bright blue/teal) next Saturday on Ebay for Brandon. I hope I can get them finished this week. The back side of the owl has the same pattern as the front – they are actually quite large- nice size for babies hands or just to display in the house.
Owl yarn: Patons and Debbie Bliss 100% cotton yarn

Sorry all photos are a bit blurry.. I just quickly took them on the way downstairs this one is already in use for Niklas – made completely out of scrap pieces. the knitting was done quickly but waving all these loose ends in – was really a pain.
100% Debbie Bliss Cotton Yarn – Aran Weight

Stuff in the making – here are some granny flowers – this is going to be a bag for Spring – iam going to line the bag with matching fabric. This project is on hold for now but I have all the numbers of flowers I need.
Yarn: 100% cotton by Sugar n Cream purple, yellow and white

Next is a shawl / Dreieckstuch I started last week Saturday – and iam almost finished with it. Just 2 more rows in the pattern and than I have to do the lace border. I had this yarn sitting for almost 1 yearn – got it on sale, and never had an idea what to make with it until I found a photo of the shawl in the picture below.

The pattern is called “ Trillian” and omg.. it is so easy to knit.. I can actually watch TV while doing it. My yarn is by Lorna's Laces Shepherd Worsted Yarn in color Amish. it is very soft 100% Superwash wool. Like that!
sooo… the girl in the photo below is NOT ME I got it out of the pattern I purchased. The yarn her shawl is made – is very thin.. knitted on only 2 mm needles. I used for mine 11 US sized needles I am going to use 2.5 skeins for the shawl and I will have enough left from the 3 skein to make matching gloves or a hat. I will see. The set will be gifted for Christmas.

That’s it for today.. I know I promised one of you a tutorial how to make the rose bud I used on my crochet hanger. I have not forgotten. I try to get it all done.
As always with love
Claudia

Update on the fundraiser

2011-12-03T13:14:00.001-05:00

omg.. ladies.. I can not tell you how touched iam receiving all your wonderful comments and all the help you with open heart you give!

Thank you so very much!

Iam trying to still organize a few things but I want to share with all of you some dates, so hopefully you can mark your calendars???

Next week Saturday I am going to list all the donations on Ebay , each listing will start at .99 cents and I will list for 7 days, 100% of the funds will go to the family in need – listing fees and selling fees iam going to pay.

The following companies/crafters have generously offered to help
bloggers:
Bev Rochester – 1 card
Kim Gruetzenmacher – 1 card
Irina Blount – is donating THIS lovely card – check out her coloring – stunning
Tab Robinson makes one her super cute crochet cupcakes for the good cause
Claudia Rosa – 1 – Magnolia card – 1 Lili of the Valley card

Stores:
Sandy Hulsart for Cheery Lynn Designs – will give some dies!!
Irina Blount and her company LaLa Land crafts will donate digi stamps of her wonderful line of stamps
Annelies for Crealies gives a mystery gift parcel of dies
Robyins Fetish is offering digi stamps
Denise from Whimsy Stamps and I are in conversation about a raffle with some of her goodies.
Dymelot from the Netherlands is giving a surprise box with goodies
Iam in contact with Ann Vento for Raindrop Echo Designs, Katharina from Whiff of Joy and Angie from Little Darlings as well

Since I sent a lot of emails out late yesterday I hope I get a few more positive responses on Monday from companies I had asked. Fingers crossed.

I have gotten a lot of donations via paypal. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your generosity! I have a list started for the card I am going to give and also to mention each an every one of you on my blog.

Hugs Claudia

Sending Sunshine

2011-12-02T14:09:00.001-05:00

Hallo dear friends.. first let me say “Thank you” to each and everyone who was so kind to link and mention my fundraiser and also to EVERYONE who did sent some money through paypal.. small or big it all helps! In Michigan you can get 5 liters of milk for 2.49 dollars!!! Thank you so much. I did try to sent everyone a email. Please forgive if it took a bit longer.. my internet is up and down all the time. I have on Monday somebody coming to my house to have a look what is going on.

I was brave enough to ask several companies since 2 of you suggested it and omg.. I have already response from Angie Hunt for Little Darlings, Kees and Astrid from Dymelot store in the Netherlands, Annelies from Ceralies and Denise from Whimsy stamps they all responded and said they would help. I just got also a email from Bev Rochester. She told me that she would make a card especially for the fundraiser so I can list one of her cards as well . OMG!!! Thanks so much everyone!!!

I am going to wait a few days until I hopefully have a few more responses and see from there what I can do or organize. Maybe put a listing up on Ebay or just list on Etsy??? All proceeds of the funds raised I would give to the family, I will cover the fees on the listings for all auctions. I would love you to maybe leave a message here what site you prefer Ebay or Etsy or if I should just offer it on my blog? I do not know what will be best. Thanks a bunch any advice is so appreciated!

Well.. today I can show a little card – this image was ordered and I certainly had so much fun to color in one of the newest little fairies from Lili of the Valley. Iam sure you saw the 12 day of Christmas give away on the LOVT blog???? don’t forget to check it out each day. I think on Tuesday is my turn to open the shutter for the Magnolia Christmas calendar on my Magnolia only blog. I am going to raffle the card for my fundraiser for Brandon’s family and at the same time if you come and have a look you get a chance to win Magnolia candy. The company does the advent calendar throughout the month of December on each DT Members Magnolia only blog!

on this card I used Lili of the Valley Friends forever stamp
Magnolia Doo Hickey dies
Sentiment is by Amuse Artstamps
Roses, pin, crochet lace and gingham ribbon is by The Ribbon Girls

~ Freebie Friday ~

Freebie Friday Promotion at Sir Stampalot!! FREE with any online order of £35.00 or more (before postage)

Clear polymer stamp from Stampavie. Your choice of either: Purrfect Christmas (#LAU08) or Polar Present (#LAU09)

This is a festive value of £5.75 you’re saving.

A true story, maybe you can please?

2011-11-30T10:51:00.001-05:00

Hello friends, today I am posting to tell you something that is on my heart and possibly ask you to help and support if you can

Yesterday afternoon when I dropped off Niklas at school, the grandmother of one of Niklas classmates walked to the front door letting her grandson in. I noticed since school started that she was walking with a cane. The teacher ran and opened the door for her and told her to stay in the car. Than she asked all of us if we would walk Brandon in if we saw the grandmother arrive. Than she told us as much as she was allowed – that the grandmother is taking care of 4 boys all by herself and she is in her final days with cancer. Just recently the grandmothers mother passed away due to the same cancer. Right now they have no idea what is going to happen with the 4 boys when the grandmother is gone. Since the last few weeks, she has gone worse and worse.

I look at this four year old little boy and it breaks my heart. Everyday he has trouble going into his classroom and cries and kicks he does not want to leave his grandmother. I believe he must know what is going on. The brother in age next to Brandon, his name is Tyler and he is around 8 years old and goes with Lucas into the same class. I met him once and he is such a smart and nice kid.

Well.. iam sure you have in your own family and school district similar situations and we all try to do our best. There are so many places who ask for money to support people in need – I see that every day when I go to stores the Salvation Army rings the bells and the bins to give “toys for tots”… and I do sent the boys to drop the change after shopping into the bins.. however… it is really real to see the family and “knowing” the kids and how sad the future for those kids is.

The situation did not let me rest yesterday. I asked myself what I could do to help. I have called a few of my friends and we have some warm winter clothes for the boys. My goal now is to raise money to give to the grandmother a gift card for a grocery store to purchase food.

If you can spare any small amount of money or maybe you have some books or toys your kids have outgrown would you eventually be able to donate it? Books can be posted cheaply by sending them as Media Mail. You know.. I think they would be just grateful for anything that’s under the tree for those boys.

Starting this weekend I am going to offer some of my cards for purchase on Ebay – all proceed made from the sale, iam going to donate to the family. I am going to add to the gift card a little note writing each name onto the card who supported. If you like to just donate through pay pal something it would be gratefully appreciated.

This is my first try of a fundraiser. If you have any ideas or suggestions.. I would happy to get your advice.

I do not know how to add a paypal button “donate” to my blog yet but if you like to sent some money through Paypal to help Brandon, his 3 bothers and his grandmother you could use this paypal address

claudiaesrosa at hotmail.com

please sent money as gift and add a note – “Brandon”

Even if you can not donate something.. could you please help me by spreading the word for the family about the fundraiser?

Thank you all for reading.

Blog Candy Give Away 4 GIFT VOUCHERS for you to shop

2011-11-29T11:07:00.001-05:00

Good morning!!! I'm very excited this morning to have a give away sponsored by
Stop and Scrap!

Stop and Scrap is an online paper crafting store, with a great selection of some of the newest
products - and great prices. I actually just placed my first order from them
recently, and was very pleased with how quickly it arrived. Even though my order
wasn't over $50 to qualify for free shipping, I felt like the shipping charges
were very reasonable. They also have a great rewards program, and I am excited about spending those points eventually! Free money to spend is always good! So...today I get to give
away a $25 gift certificate, and three $10 gift certificates!!! I will tell you how you can enter!

I was given the choice to do whatever sort of giveaway I wanted, and since I want to keep it really simple! So, all I would like you to do is

- leave me a comment with Mr. Linky.

- Enter your name into my FOLLOWER list - iam going to confirm with you after i picked the winners with random org.

OPTIONAL: If you would like to pop-over and say hello on my Facebook Wall , then leave me a comment here saying you did that, that will give you an extra entry.

I will draw the four winners and announce them here next week on my blog on Monday morning - leaving time for everybody who is interested to leave their comment over the weekend!
Thank you so much for your support over the years.
With love
Claudia

Mr. Linky:

cute little choir

2011-11-28T11:46:00.001-05:00

Hello friends… I have a new Lili card ready
Sorry for the tint in my pictures – it was getting dawn and the light was poor. I like to take my photos around noon – even with my daylight lamps on. It just gives me the best results.

I wanted to remind you to swing by tomorrow again – I will post this big blog candy with 3 Gift vouchers to “Stop and Scrap”!

I have colored the girls with Copics from the Neutral family and added the “C” colors to the clouds
Faces: E000/00/11/13/R20
Hair: E50/31/34 some black
Stars: Y38
Slate grey for background
I did add Twinklets over the clouds to give it some more texture than Stickles would give me and frosted my flowers with it too
Stamps: Lili of the Valley 3 Little Angels – Sentiment
There is fake snow to create a corner embellishment and the die I used is Frosty Ville by Memory Box
Papers: Magnolia – Through Sir Stampalot

Check out Lili of the Valley’s updated website, which now finally has a currency converter for all our overseas customers!! It’s really easy to use so you never have to wonder anymore how much you are spending!

And now is the time to try it out, as there is 10% off and free postage on all orders – the best ever discount on the LOTV store. The offer runs until 5pm (UK time) on Wednesday 30^th November. So if you want to buy someone a stamping gift, or treat yourself to an early Christmas present, now’s your chance. It’s a small thank you for all your custom throughout the year! Look out for more ideas and videos added to the new look site by the New Year.

Beyyyeee.. take care – see you tomorrow

luv

Claudi

Kogarashi

2011-11-27T13:07:00.001-05:00

Late Thanksgiving shopping
On Friday evening I was kind of getting restless, but I did not want to go back into the crowds again, after I picked up Lucas from a playdate I went to my local yarn shop. aawwwhhh and ooohhh. again. I could spent hours there. With the intention to purchase some bright colors of Debbie Bliss Baby Cashmerino yarn. Well.. this is what I came home with Nothing baby-ish about it.. boy I love this yarn. I saw a finished scarf in the store hanging and I totally loved how it felt touching it.

Of course.. it was NORO again this time from Kogarashi line and it is my second project working with this amazing yarn. The pattern was handed by the store owner.. I it is very simple – cast on 141 stiches with a size 11 US round 32” needle, join and go in seed stich around. which gives you a nice pattern on both sides.. just looks best when wearing it. After about7-8 hours of knitting (Friday night I worked til 2:30 am) it looked kind of like this

Last night I finished the scarf and it looks like this. I draped all kinds of skeins around my neck and this is what I liked the best. I love the colors.. I had a couple of choices but I think these colors are going to look amazing with any kind of coat, jeans and even if you wear some settled lipstick.

This scarf is currently pending for one of my readers but if you like me to make one for you too, I would be happy to make one for you or as gift giving.
The costs of this scarf would be ($22.00 plus 6% tax = 23.32 per skein x 2 = $ 46.64 = costs for material plus $23.36 for the making = $70.00) about $ 3.00 per hour, please

Yarn: Noro Kogarashi – seed stich cowl – long enough to wind once around neck
Specific Fiber: 51% Silk, 49% Wool
price: $ 70.00 – currently pending (contact claudiaesrosa at hotmail.com)

Sweet Tilda

2011-11-25T11:07:00.001-05:00

Hello friends.. here is a quick card for Just Magnolia’s Challenge #134 Red/Pink or Whites

Papers: Magnolia - Sir Stampalot has a fabulous selection
Ribbons, sweet heart flowers, lace, heart charm and bakers twine are from the Ribbon Girls shop

Thanks for your visit. Hugs Claudia

Stuff in the making

2011-11-24T15:09:00.001-05:00

Hello friends…

While waiting for my husband to get finished.. I took some quick photos of the upstairs stuff in the making okay.. Lucas asked the other day if I could make him the same kind of scarf I made Niklas. The kids really like the cowl style scarf, since it is easier and much faster for them to get dressed and I noticed that they are actually bringing the scarf home. I have about 3 regular style kinds over the year made but they are coming always home in the backpack after school. They just never have the time to wind them around the neck when they go to the playground. Lucas choosed the colors of his. The yarn is very soft – Cashmere with Merino and the best.. it is washable!!! I’d say that’s a go

Next iam working on is extra long loopy scarf made from NORO Silk Garden yarn. I use a 6.5mm hook to make it very loopy. This will become a gift for a friend who loves PINK… I think the pinks are very Adult and wearable.

This is going to be a blanket for the boys bed. 100% organic cotton and oh so soft!!! for 7.99 a skein not cheap – considering the size I want it to become, but I try to use a coupon every time iam at Michaels. Just happens that I ALWAYS need other stuff too .

Well.. hubby called … WE CAN GO NOW

HAPPY THANKSGIVING from the Rosa’s to your family.
Sending lots of love!

PS… Thanks to my very handsome and patient model who was willing to take some time off his Nintendo Poekemon Black and White to pose for some pics

Sweet Hanglars

2011-11-23T13:49:00.001-05:00

Hello friends… I have a friend who absolutely loves Hanglars – no question for me that I had to make a Christmas card for her using those images. She does also have a large stamp collection and she will never tell me what she likes . Speaking of Hanglars.. I wonder when Marie will release some new stamps??? last time it was the Mermaid collection and wasn’t this in June/July??? Seams ages ago! This year my friend will get a gift card, to pamper herself. Tried to add my pocket to the front of the card. I usually do not cut the images out anymore… for some reason I stopped doing that – so I had a little play on that as well. Once you pull the tag out it reveals 2 sentiments and the Gift card will be adhered behind the tag. Otherwise I think I need to worry that it slips down too far into that pocket. I need to think about that next time

Papers are by Websters pages
other Magnolia Die “Dream Tag”
Magnolia Die “Edwin’s lace”
Magnolia stamp “Sweet Christmas Dreams”
Magnolia stamp: “Merry Christmas”
Swirls “Stempelglede”

Well… off to get some photos done of my card for Friday. Sending lots of love to your homes and Happy Thanksgiving to all my readers from the USA.

A Winter Birthday

2011-11-22T12:57:00.001-05:00

Hei there… iam getting to the end of the cards, which I have made for a large card order. This image was one of the requested ones. I always loved this cute Tilda and I know many of you do too. She is very popular – not only because she is from a Christmas collection and she works all year round.. but looking at her today what I find very cute is her hair doe. Quite different than what the girls have now. Okay.. I know.. the wavy hair is nice to color in – but isn’t something different for a change cute too?! Iam never too keen about the stripy socks I just like them if they are colored in, in alternating colors but what a pain to do that – I can not even imagine how difficult that would be using water colors, but once it is done – it does look nice. Its just a matter of DOING it hahahaha

Well.. I have to go shop for some food – and I need desperately glue – the can to adhere my flowers and embellishments is empty (I use Aileen’s super tacky glue).

Stamps: Magnolia Design Pauline Tilda with present–
Dies: Magnolia antique border lace die / Magnolia”Bloomy” Tag die / Heart Swirl Die = Supplies are all available through Sir Stampalot
Papers: Basic Grey
Flowers: Wild Orchid Crafts
Sentiment: Stempelglede through Cute Stamps and Cards
Hemp, Stickles and Gems through The Ribbon Girls

Pure Luxury

2011-11-21T13:56:00.001-05:00

Hei there… I like to post today some of my finished projects I talked about on the weekend. I know my blog is for paper crafters but since I do see my blog also kind of a diary – I hope you do not mind i f I post here and there things made with my second hobby.

Some people think handmade things are fairly inexpensive to get or to make. All of you who work at least 3hours plus on a card and you look at all your supplies stashed on your desk and cupboards know this is not true.

The same it is with good quality yarns.

I used to make sweaters and clothes for my boys but now they are so big that it is a big task to just finish one piece and I decided to go with some easy and quick things to make. Now lets talk about the yarns… from bottom to to top you see. Finally everything has been blocked and finished up:
1) red/orange cowl uses 3 skeins of Debbie Bliss Andes yarn – the most beautiful yarn! I loved every minute knitting with this yarn. I am going to keep this scarf for myself because it is so light weight and long enough to pull over my head if it is getting windy. I do usually not wear hats. (Debbie Bliss Andes yarn runs about 14.00 a skein)
2) is a green scarf made from hand died and hand spun to thin and thick yarn and than I knitted it up – the quality of this yarn is EXCEPTIONAL – I have purchased hand died and hand spun yarns over the past year several times on Etsy but the best quality I found at Fuzzyfibers. I am going to keep this scarf for myself
3) is a super soft Merino yarn with some Cashmere – I knitted it and before I sewed it together I twisted the fabric once – the stich used is also a twist stich. It looks really nice worn and has a great drape. I will give this to my mother.
4) is an other reddish scarf for my mom – she likes green and red it is made from 2 skeins of Madeline Tosh yarn held together and crochet with a large hook to give it a loopy look
5) is made from Debbie Bliss Baby Alpaca yarn – very soft and so airy. It is not going to weigh hair down if draped over the head.

Well and here are some fun little crochet items – I used Debbie Bliss Eco Cotton yarn it. They are already wrapped and on the way to my dear friend Carole.

If I ever make an other coin purse I will line the inside with fabric, to make it look more professional.

See you tomorrow with a paper craft posting
Thanks my dears

Giveaway

2011-11-21T11:01:00.001-05:00

I am exited that I get to host one of the giveaways Stop and Scrap. You may have already noticed the Countdown to Christmas

First I want to tell you about Stop and Scrap. Stop and Scrap is a US on-line scrapbook supply store. The store has many delicious papers and embellishments. I usually purchase all my 6x6 paper pads there because Maria runs usually a pretty sweet deal on pre-orders.

Shipping is always fair – inside the us you will get free shipping on orders over $50.00 and internationally is fair as well. If your not getting their newsletters you might be missing out on some really good specials. If you like to you could do this today here

They also have a great reward program you can read about here

Back for now to the giveaway I will be hosting

Stop and Scrap has allowed me to give to four of my readers the following Christmas presents

1x 25$ gift certificate

and

3x 10$ gift certificates.

What do you need to do to get your hands on one of them? (you could shop for all the new pretty Valentines papers ) just mentioning it hahahahaha

Come back to my blog on Tuesday 11/29 and I will tell you than

hugs
Claudia

Delight in Simple Things–a card and crochet

2011-11-20T11:50:00.001-05:00

Hei there.. today I have a few “springy” things to show you. This weekend I was busy with a order I got through my Etsy store for some baby items. I made this card sometime last week using one of Lili Of The Valley’s new images called “Never too old for a cupcake” The stamp comes with the cute sentiment but it was a bit large for my layout. I love stamp sets like that – what a great deal to get a image AND a sentiment for the same money. Most of you what a little sucker iam for sentiments. hahahahha

Papers are by Stampin up
Gems and crochet ribbon is by: The Ribbon Girls

hop on over to the ribbon girls blog challenge no #13 for the colour challenge “PINK AND WHITE”
Other: Liquid Applique , Stickles, Spellbinder lacy circles, little pearl Stickers can be found at Cute Stamps and cards

Well.. the other thing I wanted to show you is a cloth hanger I altered. You might remember my Magnolia honey bee project I had made for a Magnolia INK issue. I had still some of these pretty hangers at home (they are quite gorgeous painted ) and I used some of my scrap cotton yarns to make a sleeve for one of the hangers. I do plan to make 2 more in different colors to have a nice set maybe for a gift or to put up on Etsy.

Right now iam sitting close to my sewing machine I have sew a little sack close to stuff with some fibers, to finally finish my pin cushions. My “master plan” is to finish all my knitted and most of my crochet stuff that’s been sitting here but the ends have not been waved it. I can not tell you how much I dislike to do this job. By the time I have something “finished” I have the next project in mind I and I think – oh I wave the ends in tonight but it never happens. I literally have stuff from last winter sitting in my closet that has to be finished!

Happy Birthday with a “special” Magnolia stamp

2011-11-17T13:57:00.001-05:00

hoorayyy… iam pretty good with my DT commitments and I was able to make this little card using this suuuper cute Magnolia stamp. It’s one of these “special” stamps released in the Netherlands. I do not really know which shop purchased the rights for her, because my dear and generous friend Nicole Verkooijen sent me this stamp as a surprise. Can you believe it??? Thanks so much Nicole – have to tell you lol you nailed the surprise looove ,love it!!!

Stamps: Special release Tilda – Name unknown – Design Pauline – Magnolia Rubberstamps
Balloons – You are so special collection – Sir Stampalot
Sentiment: Stampin up

large scalloped border punch – Cuttlebug die – Stampin up ribbon and large oval punch – Basic Grey Paper – cotton lace and baker twine from The Ribbon Girls

This card is currently pending for Shaunna – but may become available for purchase on Monday in my Etsy

Santa Mail and a little panic

2011-11-15T14:04:00.001-05:00

Hei girls… with Thanksgiving just right around the corner I must say iam starting to panic a little with my Christmas presents. I have been making quite a few handmade knit and crochet gifts but my cards are not even started yet. I have 2 more card orders from sweet Shaunna and than I have to get my behind moving for my things. geee… I can not believe it. I guess I want to post around December first otherwise I am in the mail office line. Last year it was all the way outside of the building each day. So I must say.. iam a bit in panic mode.
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this card has been ordered from Sonja quite a long time ago – I just had such a hard time to find a paper I liked with it. I thought I would need papers with reds but also lots of other colors so I can color the clothes in. After I had given up digging through all the pads I have – I just started coloring and it came together so easy and I did not even need many colors. Added a little deco to the photo I had 5 of these cute containers for my Mom2Mom sale to display my crochet hats. They did quite well… however people asked for larger sizes. I guess I will have to think about that next year. Speaking of Mom2Mom sale.. I have still some Motivet stamps (on EZ mount) I would love to sell for 4.50 US a piece – if you are interested you could email me (claudiaesrosa@hotmail.com). Email me the stamps you would like – and I can have a look if I have the stamps. I have 1 pile I want definitely sell and the other pile is a possible keep pile but I might sell. I also have still my Making Memory Slice – used just 1x I would sell for $25.00 – it sells currently for around 99.00 at Michaels plus tax.

Back to the card
Supplies on it are as always Copic pens
Then paper is by Echo Park 12x12 – I must say I love it – I have the entire pack almost used up (shared half with a friend)
Stamps: Lili of the Valley Lots of Letters
Sentiments: Postmark clear this is really a great set to have and best of all they are back in stock! You might want to hurry with them – If you like them. They have been sold out just earlier this week.

Santa’s Helper

2011-11-14T14:15:00.001-05:00

Hello ladies.. I have to make it short “again” my house is without heat and hubby needs the computer to find out if he can fix it himself. What a pain in the neck.
This card has been ordered. Thank you so much! Take care friends!
as always with love
Claudi

Magnolia: Tilda “Santa’s little Helper
wrapped boxes/ present
Papers: all by Magnolia also through Sir Stampalot

Sentiment: Whimsey

Lace and Bakers Twine = The Ribbon Girls

3 fold card with gift card pocket

2011-11-13T14:58:00.001-05:00

Hello friends.. where did the time fly.. I was so busy with my Mom2Mom sale on Saturday. I did okay. I really need to post my card for Just Magnolia’s challenge this week. sooooory off to clean up all the stuff back into the storage units that has not sold.

oh this card is a bit more embellished version of this card bye.. hugs and kisses

Stamps: Tilda with small gift

ribbons: The Ribbon Girls

Stamps: Tilda in Stocking
Magnolia Die: lace

Stamps: Magnolia Sweet Dreams – Sentiment
Lamp post
Dies: border die – Lovely Fence

Sentiment: Computer

May your layers be many & your frosting be thick

2011-11-10T13:05:00.001-05:00

Hi friends … finished an other Lili of the Valley card between hauling and cleaning baby/kids stuff out of my storage unit. Iam going with a friend on Saturday to a Mom2Mom sale and I hope i can get rid of some of the things I have been holding on for sentimental reasons and just because it was easier to put it away. Tonight we have to take the train table apart and price all things out and tomorrow we can set up our table. Fingers crossed it’s not going to snow. It has been so yucky these days.

Anyhow.. back to the card. This card was ordered and I just loved to make it. This new Lili of the Valley image “Cake Glorious cake” is just too sweet and as you know all stamps have been released today!!!! I went with some pretty Stampin up papers I had saved up for a very long time.
The pinks are from the RV 000 range – I hardly ever color with the RV range but it turned out to be okay.

Sentiment: Stampin up
butterflies and swirls are Recollections – found them at Michaels

lots of love
Claudia

Sweet fairy

2011-11-08T12:33:00.001-05:00

Hello my dears… I would like to show you a card with one of the new fairy images Lili of the Valley is going to release in just 2 days. Iam sure you saw most of them already on the Inspiration site. Aren’t they adorable? I am going to have a couple of hours of crafting time today and I think my next card will be the little fairy with the cupcake … its so hard to choose

I know the bottom picture is really poor, but I had to tilt this card this way so the pretty flowers on the paper used to decorate the inside of the card, would show on the photo – it makes more sense why I colored the fairies wings with hues of yellow in.

Stamps: Lili of the Valley’s soon to be released fall 2011 Fairy line “Never too old for a hug” This image includes the sentiment.
combined on my sample with Lili of the Valley’s circle sentiment
The new stamps are going to be on the store site in only 2 days!!!

hugs
Claudi

Tag card with pocket

2011-11-07T13:15:00.001-05:00

Hei sweeties a new card with an idea to add a Gift card for easy “gift giving” – as always I like things which do not break the bank when posting overseas.
The pocket allows to tuck as said a gift card in oooorrr… thinking to add eventually a Magnolia die wink wink – who knows
Loved this paper.. you might remember Christine aka Blankiefinder used it the other day on her card. I got it at Archivers in a 12x12 sheet (was amazed how great the pattern works for the cards)

If you like this card style – I pulled the link to my first sample I made back in January and the posting includes the link to the site I have found how to score and cut the card.

Stamps: Design Pauline Magnolia Rubberstamps
Sweet Christmas Tilda and “Sweet present” “Sweet Christmas Collection 2011
Sentiment: Sweet Dreams by Magnolia, Santa is coming to town by Magnolia
Dies = Lovely Fence by Magnolia / heart swirl by Magnolia / Old Swedish Lace by Magnolia
All available at Sir Stampalot

Card size is a bit shy of 6 x 5 3/4 inches
Crochet lace is from The Ribbon Girls
Holly leaf die is by Whiff Of Joy and can be found at Cute Stamps and Cards
Papers are Echo Park

New Distress inks in limited Edition are available at Sir Stampalot!!!

Thank you for seeing me today as always take care of yourself.
mwah!

Pals forever and a splash of color work in progress

2011-11-05T17:20:00.001-04:00

Hi friends, I have a lot of photos today – sorry – I am still moving my tent in the house around to see where I can get good pics with the day light I have on certain spaces. Not too much to choose from since my house is not very big
The spot I had it prior was quite nice but it was a pain to clean there since it was so tucked away.

Back to my card… I must say I enjoyed playing with one of my new digi downloads from Krista's cute girl images. I did work a lot on that large card + project order but in the meantime I could not resist to get each week my “fix” on these cute images . When I got this image I thought of Halloween but than the time went by and I thought hmmmm what a wonderful girlfriend card would “Becca and Boo” make.

I went with happy colors pinks and orange colors and some brown for layering. I must say I was worried about this large sentiment but after asking hubby for his opinion – and he liked it I was okay with it and adhered it permanently.

I did list some cards to my Etsy shop today. This card is one of them if you are maybe interested?
There is this card “Pals” listed HERE, and you are a lifesaver listed HERE and Kindness card can be found HERE

oh… I still crochet iam fiddling around with some kind of a purse I saw online but can not find a pattern for it. It is getting to the point that it is ridiculous how much time I waste to figure out how its done but I can not stop thinking about it. Here are just a few little plays with some colored yarn. I have made my mind up with them.. they are going to be worked into a pin cushions. The yarn is really pretty.. 100% cotton by Debbie Bliss. yuuummm…

Well I hope you liked your visit today … quite a splash of colors considering what time of the year we are in, right ? the last photos are taken when it was getting kind of dark already. The yarn purchase I did yesterday at Michaels. Can you imagine these yarns creating something flowery and pretty? awwh.. I love it

You and me frieds pals forever and work in progress

2011-11-05T14:14:00.012-04:00

Well I hope you liked your visit today … quite a splash of colors considering what time of the year we are in, right. I was not able to blog today with Live Writer. None of my photos would post, not even the pictures from yesterday. i got message "forbidden request" . What a pain blogger is!!

test

2011-11-05T14:09:00.001-04:00

trouble again with blogger?

Paperbag

2011-11-04T17:28:00.001-04:00

hei friends.. iam a little late today. The kids had no school today and we went out to go do things play mini golf and do some retail therapy for mom at Michaels and Joanns I do like to post my altered paper bag which I did submit to this weeks challenge on Just Magnolia “Anything goes” with the option of pearls and lace.

Stamps: Sentiment: Magnolia Merry Christmas seal

Magnolia Tilda with ribbon

Die: Magnolia swirl die all through Sir Stampalot

Papers: My Minds Eye
Crochet lace and bakers twine The Ribbon Girls.

Flowers and golden corner= Wild Orchid crafts
Tag and paper bag from stash
Stickles in Golden Rod

Well, I did want to let you guys know that Sir Stampalot has now all the new limited Edition Distress inks in. The fall ones flew out of the window, by the time I noticed they were all gone. I do color with Copics but I do love to have some of the inkpads in my collection!

Cute Watering Can

2011-11-03T13:36:00.001-04:00

Hello, today I would like to show a card idea using my first assigned image “Cute Watering Can” from the soon to be released Lili of the Valley stamp line. This image is in the line of “Cute Animals” and includes a sweet matching sentiment. Iam not too thrilled how my pictures turned out. I have moved my photo tent to an other room and its just not the same. on top .. I must say I did not feel to creative with the card itself. I just turned the layout into a smaller criss cross folding card to add the seeds, like I did with my Chinese Tilda card earlier this week. Oh well.

The image has a nice size and fits great into a circle, I think is a perfect image for those stampers who like to craft 5.5x 5.5 inches cards.

Thank you for your visit on my blog
big hugs
Claudi

heart to heart–hand in hand

2011-11-02T14:00:00.001-04:00

Hello friends… finally I feel iam getting back to normal. The kids are both back to school and Halloween is over. Geee… sewing for Lucas a Ninja head mask and a sword cover was a pain in the behind, but he looked really “cool” . Today I would like to show you a card made with a image that has been requested and I must say I have a hard time explaining in English how special this one had turned out for me. This image is back from early 2009 (New Years Collection) when some other great card makers like Ila, Bea or Inge were still with me on the Magnolia Design Team. Sooo very much has changed since than, and while coloring my memories were coming back about all the beautiful cards they make. I remembered about how excited I was when I got my very first Inge card using this image – OMG! She colored Tilda’ s coat blue a really stunning card. Now I own like 3 or 4 of her artwork.

Stamps: Magnolia Tilda and Edwin on ice– Design Pauline
Stamp available through Sir Stampalot

Supplies: Basic Grey paper pad
Crochet ribbon and silk ribbon through The Ribbon Girl

giant flake (Michaels) , Sentiment: Stampin up – sooo cute … I loved it with this image but I can not recall the set it came in, Flowers- Wild Orchid Crafts, Cheese cloth from stash. quik kutz corner die

well.. I let you go.. I hope you enjoyed my little card for today. Thank you for taking time to see me
with love
Claudia

Herzlichen Glueckwunsch zum Geburtstag

2011-10-31T12:48:00.001-04:00

Hello girls, today I can show an other card made with a image that was ordered. I have not colored Chinese Tilda in for a while – thought she would be cute with a criss cross style card and a little wooden stick to remove the inside panel.

Liebe Crissy und Monika ich wuensche euch beiden alles alles Gute zum heutigen Geburtstag, viel Gesundheit und Glueck. Ich denke an euch beide! Dicke Knuddels nach Wisconsin und Mainz!

Stamps: Chinese Tilda
Paper: Magnolia 6x6 papers
pink plaid –flower – lace
Tag die

Other: crochet ribbon (small and wide), hemp and cute butterfly charm “ The Ribbon Girl”
Sentiment – frame and matching punch / Word Window punch– Stampin up
Flowers from stash (Wild Orchid Crafts), Stickles

Cozy and Warm

2011-10-29T13:08:00.001-04:00

Hello friends… back with an other Magnolia card. I am happy and grateful that I have gotten a large card order to make sample cards for a store display using certain images. What an honor iam quite excited about it ! This cute stamp has been released I believe in 2008, lovely image. I have tried to color her in with my Copics to make they image look like I used Distress inks and watercolor paper.

Stamps: Magnolia Sweden – Cozy Tilda available through Sir Stampalot
Sighlent Night background stamp – by Magnolia through Sir Stampalot
Papers: Magnolia – through Sir Stampalot

black gingham Ribbon: The Ribbon Girl
Tag: hand stained, stamped and embellished with a metal embossed border by my friend Rosa. She gave them to me to add to my gifts – no way Hose they are way too gorgeous. I have them now in my craft containers to use on my cards. Thank you sweetie for sharing them with me.
Martha Stewart twig punch
Flowers: Wild Orchid Crafts
fake snow, paper doily, silver flakes (Michaels)

Pretty in Red

2011-10-28T13:36:00.001-04:00

Stamps: Magnolia Tilda with teddy (Sweet Christmas)
Magnolia Santa’s bench
Papers: Magnolia
Die: Magnolia Edwins lace
all available through Sir Stampalot

Sentiment: Whimsy
dies: Whiff Of Joy through Cute Stamps and Cards (Mistelzweig die – Holly leaf die)
hemp and bakers twine, pearl swirl through The Ribbon Girls

Loving Wishes

2011-10-27T13:12:00.001-04:00

Hi friends.. thanks for your sweet comments. Time for a new Lili card. Made this one already about 2 weeks ago always nice to have some backup cards to post when other things are going on.
I look now at the card and I must say I like it – I hope it does not show how much I struggled with it. I think I started with this adorable image at least 5 times to color. I was never happy with it and I could not find the right papers to pull it together. It needed something that matched the image but also gave me quite a few colors to color the people in, otherwise all the coats would not stand out against each other.
Off to help my oldest with some of his work for school – he stayed one more day at home.
huggels

Stamps: Lili of the Valley “build a snowman”
Sentiment: Magnolia “Loving Wishes”
Stamps inside: Magnolia “sweet Snowflakes”
Dies: Magnolia “swedish lace” / Spellbinder
Supplies from stash: little bells, felt snowflakes (Stampin up), gem swirls Recollection
Papers: Cosmo Cricket

Merry Christmas

2011-10-26T13:25:00.001-04:00

Hello my friends. Back with a new card… both of my boys are sick with the first fever and cough of the season bummer.. I have had 2 sleepless nights in a row. I have made this card for an order I received. The request was to use this background stamp and since it is called “Winter night” I colored the background black and added this cute Tilda from the newest Collection into the corner. Pretty large image over all – so there was not much to do with a card layout.
There is a bit of different textures going on in the focal point image – I added liquid applique to the trees and flakes, the area behind Tilda is done with Twinklets and the road has Stickles on it. The entire image is stamped on shimmery white cardstock – it does look really pretty in real life.

Stamps: Magnolia Sweden
Crosstich Tilda
Winter Night background stamp
Papers: Magnolia through Sir Stampalot
Flowers: Magnolia Sweden

Take care :-=) thanks for swinging by today. Lots of love
Claudi

Dear Santa…

2011-10-24T11:41:00.002-04:00

Today would love to show you a card iam really happy with does not happen too many times. Some of you might have noticed it.. I really like to avoid to color with red Copic markers, what a pain that the “red season” is so long, from Christmas til Valentines . I think this color is so hard to color with. On copic Express Cardstock it is kind is kind of okay , I used to color on the nice shimmery paper but omg.. this is so hard. Here and there I do try and almost all the time I am frustrated. However.. what a surprise this one turned out okay no runny ink spots nothing. I wonder what happened lol, I hardly can believe it.

Stamps: Sweet Christmas Collection 2011
Tilda a little something
inside: Magnolia jule hat
Sentiment: ticket Magnolia
Papers: Magnolia
Ribbons and bakers twine: The Ribbon Girl
square ribbon buckle: Cute Stamps and Cards

The 4th Ultimate Rubber Stamping Demo Day
Free demonstrations in store at Sir Stampalot, Peterborough, all day on Saturday 29th October.

entering: Maggie lovers challenge

A Christmas card… of course

2011-10-23T12:40:00.001-04:00

Hi there.. my new Magnolia Christmas stamps arrive slowly in my mail box.. whoohooo… bummer I was not able to get my hands onto that wonderful door entry, the stamps were all gone online by the time I was ready to order. Oh well.. it has to wait … this one is made with Edwin on Christmas Eve. As always, I try to keep my cards with boy images “flower less” and try to embellish with with other things I have on hand. Sometimes not that easy. All though this card is not frilly and girly.. I must say I like how it turned out, it will be easy to mail.

Stamps: Magnolia Rubberstamps “Edwin on Christmas Eve”
“Sweet Christmas” Collection 2011
Sentiment outside: Magnolia”Merry Christmas seal”

Papers: Cosmo Cricket (Mitten Weather) 6x6
Embellishments: Stickles, Snow-Tex, Stampin up: brad,
felt glittered snowflakes from stash, glass glitter,

Ink: Memento, Coloring: Copic Sketch (E50/40/41/42/43/44/31/34/27/00/08/09/25/000/07/13/02
C00 YG61/0000/11/63 y32, W00/6/7/2/8 R20/43/35)

Distress ink for sponging: Walnut Stain Ranger

Tools: Doohickey Magnolia dies “lovely fence”,
Stampin up: Word Window punch, Holz sponging tool,
Big shot die cutting machine

card decoration inside:

Sentiment: Magnolia Rubberstamp “Jolly Snowy Collection 2009”
Spellbinder: Square, Square large scallop, black satin ribbon,
fake snow – Snow-Tex, Stickles, Magnolia Die: tree

Sweet Christmas Edwin

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Breast Cancer 3 D project

2011-10-21T13:42:00.001-04:00

Hallo sweets.. today we want you to show us your creations in pink and white for the month of breast cancer awareness at Just Magnolia/Just Hanglar. Keep yourself checked out. You should start in the age of 40, each year have your annual check up!
I have quite a few of these pretty silver tins from Prima Marketing at home and thought these are great to alter for gift giving. They really have a great size. This was my first one – more to come soon

Stamps: Magnolia Sweden – Reading Tilda available at Sir Stampalot
for October – Breast Cancer month

Blog candy winner & more frames

2011-10-20T10:57:00.001-04:00

Hello dear friends so so sorry for letting you wait .. unintentionally. Where does this week go???? I just noticed tomorrow is Just Magnolia and I did not even had a chance to look what the challenge is

First of course.. thanks to AAAALLL of you for your wonderful comments! I will have an other blog candy up soon.
The winner of the Ribbon kit is sweet Christine aka blankiefinder. OMG.. I just pulled her link to her blog and you got to check out her sweet card she has up. I love it! Plus… how funny.. I just had the same papers she used on her card spread out on my table. I got them a while ago at Archivers, so pretty.. the bight colors spoke to me and now that I saw Christine’s card iam really excited. Thanks sweetie for your inspiration.

Well.. here is an other set of vintage frames. Dear Maya from Israel contacted me through Etsy and asked if I would create these for her. She is going to mount them on the bedroom doors for each of her children. What a cute idea! Maya was a doll to work with. She was so easy, with finding the right images that could work to represent her kids, especially since my collection of Magnolia Mini stamps is rather small at the moment.

As much fun it was to make these frames I am D-O-N-E with them! I just returned the rest I had today to Michaels. Off to do something new. After making like 13 of them iam not feeling “IT” anymore I have found something else at Michales, iam itching to alter with my Mini stamps. Mini stamps can be purchased at Sir Stampalot. click on “Whats new” and than they are on page 106 or 108

It’s the sweet season

2011-10-18T12:06:00.001-04:00

are you already thinking cookies yummy smells in the kitchen! Last year I was so early with my baking that my son, almost embarrassed told his friends that his mom already makes in October Christmas cookies. well.. I had to try the recipes out, right and besides that.. they were all eaten up quickly lol. When I saw these cute cheery papers in the Websters Christmas pad right away of sugar sprinkled cookies. Think this card would be to give to a friend along with a tin and some homemade goods – or just the card of course. I did list this card today over on etsy if you like to have a look?
Thank you so much to Tanja from Australia who purchased yesterday my Lili of the Valley card.

~~This card is for sale in my~~ ~~etsy shop right here~~ ~~thanks~~
Sold – Thank you Crissy xoxoxoxo

Stamps: Design by Pauline Magnolia Sweden
Available through Sir Stampalot
- Magnolia – Gingerbread Tilda
- Magnolia – Sentiment – a gift from the heart
- Magnolia- border die – lace, Spellbinder for tag
lots of “fake snow” to the outside, on the corners and flowers and inside.. adorned with glitter
card inspired by Tina Klix who has made the most adorable cards made with this image and is the reason I HAD to purchase her

test

2011-10-18T11:50:00.001-04:00

test

LOVT vintage with Copics coloring night

2011-10-17T14:04:00.001-04:00

Hello friends.. hope you have had a great weekend.
It got chilly in Michigan – I had to realize that it is really time to put the sandals back into the basement. I just love to walk with no socks on and quickly slip in my shoes when I have to go brrr… not anymore hahaha

If you like to purchase this card – I have it just listed on Etsy, to study coloring... this is probably a good example how you can color a night scene with Copic markers and make your other colors look vintage by adding several layers of color over each other.
other than that.. I used for the image Lili of the Valley “Oh Christmas Tree” Whimsy Sentiment, dies: Spellbinder poinsettia die, Magnolia lovely fence die, Stampin up ribbon, fake snow with stickles on, wooden swirl is by Kaiser craft and I got it from sweet Nicole!

decorating the tree

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snowflakes fall … stars appear…

2011-10-16T13:12:00.001-04:00

Hi there.. thanks for all your lovely comments for the blog candy I have posted yesterday.
Well, today I have a card to share (btw.. I have this one listed over on Etsy – if you are interested ) using the color challenge on The Ribbon Girls blog!

stamps available through Sir Stampalot
Tilda with Halo Sweet Christmas Collection 2011
Papers: Websters Pages
Ribbon used : is this pretty lace.. it always reminds me of snowflakes

YOU choose!

2011-10-15T13:53:00.001-04:00

Hi friends..

as promised yesterday I would like to give one of you the opportunity to choose from 1 of these ribbon kits

I had recently a publication in a magazine and this is my reward from the Ribbon Girls. Mary kindly allowed me to use my reward as blog candy.

Not sure when I will close this candy… probably Tuesday.

So, if you like to enter – please add your name – no more than once please

Good luck everyone!
Claudia

PS. If you like to purchase the kits you can find them here

Merry Christmas

2011-10-14T14:02:00.001-04:00

HI friends… lucky me.. I have a card for Just Magnolia for this week to join. I don’t know what is going on with me. Ever since I pulled my muscle and I was off my craft table I have such a hard time go back and craft. Maybe it is just that kind of the year where it is so yucky outside and soon dark, I feel I have no energy in my body. I hope I will get of this period soon because it is a pain in the behind . Earlier this week I spent almost my entire “kid-free” time on youtube and crochet blogs.OMG I got totally lost.. what a new world opens there colors, ideas and so many pretty things. How many hours must a day have to be able to do all these fun things. Well back to the card
Our challenge on Just Magnolia is distressing. My card has slight distressed edges and distress inks the outside corners and inside edges are heat embossed with gold detail embossing powder. Thank you dear Carole for purchasing my card mwah!

Supplies: Basic Grey – paper
Sentiment: outside is by my amazing talented friend Nicole! and the inside uses Stampin up Sentiments
Dies: Spellbinder large snowflake

Well.. today I would love to share a little love with two wonderful people who support my blog with comments and visits. I know how blessed iam, that so many of you come to my blog and look and read my postings. Iam grateful for each and every one of you. So, today I would love to give 2 blog candies away without asking you do anything for it .

First candy goes to Rosa Armstrong for one of the ladies I know who comes to my blog for a while now, she represents the ones of you who read my blog but do not have a blog.
The other candy I picked from the comments left on my card yesterday is Sarah form Crafty Mum.
Rosa and Sarah, please email me to claudiaesrosa –at – hotmail.com to claim your new Christmas stamp.

I wished I could give each and every one of you something. Tomorrow I have a small candy up for everyone to join in. No strings attached

Heart to Heart

2011-10-13T11:26:00.001-04:00

Hi friends..back with a new Tilda card… super sweet these new images, aren’t they

Magnolia Christmas 2011
Design Pauline – Magnolia Sweden

Ribbon Tilda
snowflakes find matching papers and the new dies all at one source at Sir Stampalot

Here is how I colored this image in German:

Haare: Basis E50, dann Straehnen mit E31 und y23 setzen
Socken: Basis E42 dann E44 auflegen und mit E42 blenden, mit E40 weisse Flaechen komplett ausfuellen
dann dunkel mit E43 rechts zu den Socken Schatten setzen.
Kleid: sieht wahrscheinlich schwieriger aus als es ist, du faengst mit YG 91 an auszumalen lege feine Striche von den Falten in der Mitte vom Kleid, lass grosse Flaeche in der Mitte immer noch weiss, mit YG95 und YG93 Farbe aufbauen. Zu dem Zeitpunkt ist immer noch viel weiss in der Mitte des Kleides.
Mit YG 0000 alles ausfuellen, das sieht zu dem Zeitpunkt wirklich ganz grell aus mit mit einer duennen Schicht YG91 ueber alle farben blenden, dann nimmst du W1 und blendest alles aus grosszuegig aus. Das nimmt komplett die “grelle Farbe von YG0000 weg. Evt. nach Bedarf noch mit YG97 unter den armen extra Farbe auflegen.
Gesicht:
ueber alles eine Grundlage mit E0000, dann E13 mit rechts im Gesicht mehr Farbe zur mitte auflegen. Dann R20 fuer Baeckchen und alle Uebergaenge mit E00 blenden. Mit E 000 zur Mitte hin ausblenden. Entl. mit mit E0000 nochmals verwischen und im Haaransatz kleine Punkte mit E13 legen und Farbe vom Papier verlaufen lassen.
Rot:zuerst mit E07 anfangen zu colorieren, etwas weiss uebrig lassen, dieses dann mit E02 komplett ausfuellen. In die Ecken Schatten mit E09 setzen
Boden mit verschiedenen “W” Farben colorieren.
Hintergrund mit Warm Grey 70%

More Home Decor

2011-10-11T10:45:00.001-04:00

HI friends… back with some more mini frames I was so happy to hear you liked them xoxox the first set is a order from my friend Carole. Thanks hon! (made sure to color the cat black

The second set is a order from Sonja. Danke auch Dir liebe Sonja!

I have 2 more sets of frames here I can alter.. so I just offered them over on Etsy. I would love to make a set for you too. Thank you

Magnolia Mini stamps are available through Sir Stampalot
Sir Stampalot also has the brand new Christmas Collection up for pre order – have a look

whooohoooo!!

2011-10-10T17:00:00.003-04:00

Sir Stampalot has the new line up!!!! You know this store has the stamps always very fast in stock to ship to first one ordered. I just added mine lol.. They are once again all soooo cute. I better sit down and crochet a bunch of baby hats to cover my costs lol.

Season’s Greetings

2011-10-10T11:52:00.001-04:00

HI there.. back with a new Lili of the Valley card. The lady who ordered this card wanted the girls to have all black hair and the colors needed to be bright. Right up my alley if I may say so

Quick coloring tip:

if you want to color these detailed images in,in the areas where you have the polka dots and the stars. I do not worry about them at first. I worry how I want my folds and shadows on my dresses. I color right over these areas. Than I choose darker colors to add color to my dots or stars. Of course this only works if you pick different colors than yellow, but who said anyways stars always have to be colored yellow and polka dots have to be white?

Stamps: Lili of the Valley “All in a Row”
Sentiment: Whimsey seal
Papers: Authentique
Hemp: the Ribbon girl
Flowers: Wild Orchid Crafts
other: findings of ebay

Love, Peace and Joy

2011-10-09T13:15:00.001-04:00

HI friends… have been absent for the past few days. I hurt myself and was not able to hold a pen and color for quite a few days. Since I was not able to make my weekly Lili of the Valley card I have to show this card a bit sooner than I wanted to I have made this one as a gift for Sonja who’s been purchasing most of my cards for almost 3 years now. Last year I gave her a paper bag book.. you might remember.. I have a you tube video about it. This year I thought I would give some extra cards for her to use for her friends.

Stamp: Lili of the Valley “Little Trumpet”
Papers: Stampin up
Flowers/Stars: Prima Marketing
Sentiment: Stampin up
Ribbon: Stampin up
Die: Marianne Design – Thanks to my friend Jacque for punching them for me mwah!

Luv Claudia

With a Cherry on top

2011-10-06T13:14:00.001-04:00

Hello friends.. time for a Cute Card Thursday card… yummmmm yummm… “Time for Cake” show us all your “sweet treat” stamps The challenge worked out fabulous for me. I had a card order from dear Debbie using this combination of stamps. She liked the card I had made a few months back. Usually I do not like to copy myself, like combining stamps so I did make a great effort to make this card look different than the first one. This one is much brighter and since the card is for her young daughter, I think these papers work almost better than the more “adult” style of the first card.

On a side note… I have decided to take a longer break from Cute Card Thursday Challenge. It was hard.. I have been with the Challenge blog since the start about 3.5 years and altho we had some girls leaving and new ones joining it is a great family to be with. Right now I just have a hard time combining the DT commitments with the challenge site. Thanks Cute Card Thursday for giving me a leave of absence.

W:2/4/00
C:0/00/5/4/6/7/10
E:000/00/000/13/27/21/25
Y28/17
YR:000
B:91/97/930000-
R:20/24/21/85/00/81
RV:0000
Prismacolor: White/Grass Green (Cherry top)Cool Grey90%/ Black/ Warm Grey70%/Non-Photo Blue
white lace ribbon is from the “The Ribbon Girl” store