Texture Pressing

Have you ever wanted a way to add texture to your project? Have you longed for a way to get a stamp image you love into a tangible texture? Well you can and I made a tutorial just for you!

Texture Pressing

There are so many fun ways to apply this technique. You can do the simple, just press it with ink and apply it to your project.

Images from SU! Awesomely Artistic Set

You can apply it with a huge background stamp to make a big, bold statement and focal point for your card. 

Images from SU! Swallowtail and Rose Wonder Sets

I really wish I could hand you this card. This butterfly - which I have loved from the very first glimpse - is simply stunning with the rough texture of the spackle showing through the fine lines of the stamp. Wow! 

You can also use your stamps with other textural pastes and creams. I pressed this image in two ways - I inked it up and made several sets to slice up, and I left it nekkid and pressed it into Viva Gold Modeling Cream then sliced it up. 

Images from SU! Awesomely Artistic and Rose Wonder Sets

So there ya have it - a new way to play. Did you get some stamps from Santa? Did you get moolah? You need to play! Give this a whirl and let me know what you create by uploading it to the SCS in the Texture Pressing gallery! I know you're gonna make something stunning!

Have fun!

~ky

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My Dear Friend

Hey there! Merry Christmas! I thought I'd share a little card I made. My friend Tiffany is taking some time off from hosting our Mix-Ability challenge. I wanted to send her warm wishes as she moves forward, and you can too!

This week's Mix-Ability Challenge on Splitcoast Stampers is to use Tiffany's wonderful gallery for inspiration and CASE-ing (Copy And Share Everything). She is an amazing mixed media artist, yet she keeps a lot of her designs CAS (clean and simple). So I went with CAS and some pretty flowers that pale in comparison to her beautiful spirit.

I have been itching to try Lydia's technique that she shared on her Understand Blue blog. She calls it Frosted Watercolor and it's amazing! She has a video, and I'm sure she'd love you to stop by and watch it.

I stamped the flower on Crumb Cake cardstock with Soft Suede ink. Isn't that a gorgeous stamp?? It's in the Occasions catalog launching January 5th, and it's called Birthday Blooms. I am in LOVE with this set!! Imagine all the colors you could pair up!

So, back to Lydia - she taught me to use our Blender Pens to apply Whisper White craft reinker to any area you want to pop on darker cardstock. Wow!

I painted the flower and buds with reinker, then applied Prismacolor pencils over the reinker. You can really see the difference. The leaves did NOT have reinker, so they are muted and not competing for attention.

I also stamped the row of hearts that are in this set with Whisper White craft ink. I think you are gonna get sick of seeing me use that ink. It really is *that* good!

I added some sequins from the Love Blossoms embellishment kit. That is packed with cool stuff, and makes it really easy to coordinate with the Love Blossoms papers. Oh - and we have WINK OF STELLA!!! Eeep!!!

Ok - you've got lots of new toys, friends and family over, lots of fun memories to make. You can come play anytime! Thanks for stopping in - I love it when you visit. Have a great holiday!

Ta -
~ky

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Are You Ready?

Christmas is almost here! EEEK! I haven't gotten my cards all made, in fact I was late with my Thanksgiving cards! It's a good thing you can be thankful at any time.

You might want to ask Santa for some cash. 

Just sayin' because this release is full of possibilities! You can start shopping on January 5, but you can start making your list now!

Here's a little project that was so very easy! This stamp set is in a bundle with the dies. Add the paper, and you've instantly got a dozen cards to make! Or more!

Psst - Blushing Bride glimmer paper! Swoon!

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Or how about your husband? Doesn't he need a little reminder that you would be lost without him? Another fun combo set - papers, stamps, and embossing folder! Presto! 

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This set makes me laugh, and it has so many fun, whimsical uses. Seriously! It's a host set, you can earn it with a $150 class. And do you think that's out of your reach? You can have an online party and earn it!

I'm so excited about these new ways to express your love, admiration, support, and most of all, your silly connections with those you love!

Tinker wanted to tell you hi. So, hi! Have a great day. I'll be back soon with more to share!

Ta for now,
~ky

Something Old, Something New

Creative Crew December Gallery

is now open - check it out! 

It's fun to people-watch at this time of the year. They seem to look worn, but still have some merry in them. When I go anywhere, I like to carry little goodies to hand out to people who look most frazzled, like my barista, the clerk at the grocer, or the mail carrier.

This is one very easy project that has a very big impact. Trust me. You don't need added stress, either. I used the Curvy Keepsake die - just one side of it. I cut two pieces for each gift - one piece of red foil, one smaller piece of foil for the bulb base, one piece of cardstock, and about 6 inches of 1/8th inch silver ribbon.

Here's the actual tutorial since my description isn't gonna make sense! Splitcoast Stampers Christmas Light Favor.

I stamped on the foil with the BRAND NEW stamp set Sunburst Sayings (releasing in the Occasions catalog in January 2016) and heat embossed in silver. Seriously - you all are going to love the new catalog. There's not a dud in the bunch! And some other parts of it will absolutely blow.your.mind!!

Masculine stamps! Who hasn't been stumped when asked to make a masculine card? The new set Going Global is offered with coordinating embossing folder and papers. Really really loving that set! Besides, black, white and red always look stunning - you can take them out anywhere!

Here's a quick card that can be masculine, too. I used the current set, Amazing Birthday for the 2 stamped elements. I paired them with 3 ribbons over the Mosaic Madness embossing folder. Just quick and easy - flat for mailing, and oh so yummy in your hand.

Now I'm gonna share a set of cards that I did for a charity. I love a no-kill animal shelter in Florida called H.A.L.O.  Each year I try to send several things for their gift shop to help bring in more money to help their rescues get treatments they need.

I sent them 2 boxed sets of Christmas cards. I'm hoping someone in Florida is as behind as I am, and will need cards ASAP! If you know anyone down there, send them to HALO for some shopping! Lots of really cool things in their store.

Some of these projects are too late for Christmas, but the designs work well for New Years. If you're like me, you might want to just skip ahead! I'm telling ya, though... get that jolly old elf to put money in your sock! January. New Catalog. Sale-A-Bration is coming too. Get ready....

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So Much FUN!

I got the privilege of attending On Stage in Dallas last weekend. I also got the privilege of attending with some fantastic, fun-loving, very talented ladies whom I adore! On Stage is the "new" official Convention for Stampin' Up! This time it felt more cozy, but there were still tons of goodies and laughs.

We learned so many things - like how a card based cut 4.25 x 11 is called a hot dog, but a card base cut 5.5 x 8.5 is a hamburger. We giggled all afternoon about that! Silly, I know, but it's fun!

There is a new Occasions catalog coming out on December 3, and we got to see it first, and order some things early. YOU ARE GOING TO FLIP out over this catalog! Wow! And I already have tutorials in mind for you! You can order on January 5th.

Here's my first project with a stamp set from the Occasions catalog. Squee!!!

Isn't that freaking cute? I love this new stamp set. It has so many sentiments that work inside and out. I had a hard time deciding if I should have used the larger "Shine" on the front, but I think brightening my day contributes to my punny nature.

Here's the inside - perfect for leftover halloween candies or Christmas ones. I know, we need Thanksgiving first, but I couldn't resist. Lydia gets all the credit for sharing the video with us for Alex's wonderful tutorial over on Splitcoast. I love it! Easy gifts for teachers, postal employees, your sitter, etc.

Stampin' Up! is doing something new. You know in the past we didn't get the retiring product list until just a few days before they vanished? Well, we're getting that list much sooner.

Click on the image and it will take you to the list. You might want to tell the family about your retiring products wish list. Just sayin'. Ya might. Stamp sets are going to be produced until December 28, but the rest of the product is first-come first-served until sold out.

Don't forget about my online classes - the kit is delivered to your house and everything is pre-cut and ready for you to stamp and play, complete with full color instructions! I will be retiring these classes soon, so don't miss out!

The Sale-A-Bration is coming soon. You can order from the occasions and earn free stuff from the SAB. Trust me, every single item in the SAB is a must-have! I hope you feel inspired to play today. It's very cool and rainy here, so I'm gonna get my ink on! Oh - I'm working on another video, so stay tuned! You can check out my videos on YouTube.

Ta for now,
~ky

Supplies for Christmas Light:
Sunburst Sayings - 140725
Curvy Keepsake box die - 135853
Silver Foil Sheets - 132178
Wild Wasabi Cardstock - 108641

Hurrier Becomes Behinder

You've heard that saying, right? The hurrier I go the behinder I get? Yeah. That's kind of been me of late. I got sick, got busy, got out of my good habits... You've been there, I'm sure. So - let's get this ball rolling, yes?

Splitcoast Stampers just wrapped up this year's Hope You Can Cling To event, and let me tell you - there wasn't a bum challenge in the whole lot!

How do you survive 40 challenges in 30 days? Plus the other ever-how-many other stamping obligations you have?  My secret is to boil the challenge down to the nuts and bolts, keep the design simple, and git 'er done!

I changed the cat's food last week. I wanted something with a bit more protein. But there's this problem. These really fat bunnehs that own this house along with the cats decreed the new food was theirs. Bunnehs. Eating kitteh foods. I suspect the ingredients don't match what's on the bag.

In other news, the Cowboys almost won a game. OT does not refer to overtime when there's a Cowboys game. It's Only Teasing.

Also, don't let your neighbor climb on the roof of their house on their own. Especially if they are over 80. Or 70. Or 60. That was a nerve wracking half-hour. His excuse was that he had to clean the roof off before his wife came back home, otherwise she'd yell at him and not let him do it.

Two days later apparently he told his little secret (don't tell my wife I did this), and she came running over to thank me. I enjoyed a little chuckle at the time because it was safe to laugh since no catastrophe happened. But really. Don't let them. The world needs more good neighbors watching out for each other!

Supplies used to create the Righty-Tighty and Swallowtail cards:

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Nest To Nest Featured Class

Classes all packaged up and delivered right to your door!

See ya soon!
~ky

Shiny Hexagons

I'm ready for real fall. We got a tease, then summer came back. I love the smell of fires and the way smoke lays in the sky in the early morning. I feel warmer just knowing my neighbors are stoking their home fires. I miss my wood stove, but yeah, I don't miss the mess.

It's October - time for ghouls and goblins, Friday night football, baseball playoffs and the beginning of the hockey season. It's easily my favorite month. It's also a scary month because midnight of Halloween begins the month for writing novels. I've written several, but I've not published. I don't have a good concept yet, but one will come. They always do. Meanwhile, I'm still working on cards.

I cut 3 hexagon bases with the die, then layered the black hex paper and red foil over the white layer. I used a little sponging of Watermelon Wonder just to carry the red through the card. Easy little sentiment and a spiral of curling ribbon. I attached the curling ribbon and sentiment to the panel with my little stapler.

October is also the month that everything turns pink. Cardmakers are cranking out cards for MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. You see, when cancer victims, families, even the staff are spending significant time there, they are often separated by the ones they love. These cards are available for them to use for free to stay in touch, offer encouragement, or even to share a laugh.

It's just so cool how the Splitcoast Stampers bring all their best for causes like these. If you'd like to join in, you can visit the forum HERE. Now - get out there and bless someone! And if you have an idea for a novel...

~ky

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October Creative Crew

Hey there, you! I'm glad you stopped by. I have a couple of little things to share with you. I'm part of a crew now!

I really like this card. I fussy cut the sails out of white and popped them up with dimensionals. I gave them a very thin wash of Sahara Sand. The 3D really pops better than I hoped it would!

You know, even kitties need anchors. I had one show up at my house. She's beautiful! She's young, lean, and well mannered. She's feral - dirty and both ears have been ripped. I've kept her separate from the rest of my flock to reduce stress and avoid sharing germs. I finally got her in to the vet for a spay and... she's a he. Already neutered. Go ahead - you can laugh.

He won't fit in with my bunch, but he's street smart and I turned him out. He has come by to say hello, but doesn't stay. I'm sure we'll see a lot of each other and I know he'll have space with bad weather and such. He knows the secret knock!

I hope your Friday is a blast, and has a great kick-off to a fun weekend. We here in Texas finally have cooler weather but still no rain, so I'll be schlepping water hoses.

If you have some craft time - check out Hope You Can Cling To on Splitcoast. The entire month of October is filled with challenges, then we send all the cards to MD Anderson Hospital. It's our way of supporting the breast cancer patients.

~ky
P.S.  I still have 2 online classes you can purchase!

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Freddy's Late for Work!

Do you ever have days like this? Poor Freddy had to work late, so he's hyped up on coffee. There are snakes in the cube farm, though. Those little ribbon snakes like to eavesdrop seeking juicy gossip tidbits.

This week's Mix-Ability challenge over at Splitcoast Stampers is to make something you'd find on the job, with the option of 5 or 9 things (9 to 5, get it?). Come play along!

I just adore googly eyes. Especially on whimsical things. My goal is to get a video soon about how I made him.  ATC sized - 2.5x3.5 inches.

Have you joined the Periscope wave yet? It's a really cool live video feed, and people can watch you in real time and chat with you. It's fun! You just need a twitter account (free and you don't have to tweet) and the Periscope app.

I'm new to this, so I'm trying to get the kinks out. My goal is to broadcast 2 times a week. Wed and Sat around 11 a.m. Central time (US). You can find me at http://periscope.tv/scrapacat Now, the videos only stay on-site for 24 hours after you close the session. There's something about that short window that really appeals to me.

Ok - News you need: I make and sell portable camera stands that work great for Periscoping. I have 2 card kits for sale with everything you need aside from the basic supplies. Both of those you can find at the top of my page.

Paper Pumpkin is going PINK for October - proceeds go to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. If you haven't subscribed, this deal is for you!

Paper pumpkin is a subscription, but you don't have to commit to any length of time. That's what I love! Just $20 a month (less if you sign for longer) and you have a little crafty party in a box!

Ok. Enough blabbering. Get out there and create something!

~ky

P.S. if you shop my store (link upper right side column), use the code HFRPW3Z4 and I'll send you a gift. You need to fill in your mailing info with the order, $25 to qualify for a gift. I have great gifts!

Spooky Gifts

I want to know. Do you still do the neighborhood door-ringing treat-giving thing? Or is it more common now to hold Halloween or Autumn celebrations with neighbors, friends or your place of worship? 

I always loved halloween because of the activities. The weather was amazingly perfect, baking and cooking became fresh and new again, there was football and hockey and the World Series. It was all about the whole season. I love it! Yes, I still do.

I wanted to show you some really cute options for sharing treats with others this fall. It doesn't have to be halloween-y if that's not your thing. But it can be fall and just a thank you token. The products I used are at the end of this post. These are super easy and get put together in no time! 

You simply die cut the treat bag and assemble with glue. All the measuring, cutting, edge 'pinking' and scoring are done for you with this die. And there are a bunch of little dies to help you decorate your bags in so many ways! It pairs perfectly with You're So Sweet stamp set. Just wonderful! 

The box is quick and easy - punch, turn, punch, fold. The gift box punch board does all the work! If you like easy projects, check out my kit-complete card classes. It's all ready for you to dive in and create!

Don't forget to check out my hands-free camera stand - Periscope is all the rage right now and this gem works beautifully for that. I have a light teal blue and a beautiful deep pink paint that you can pick. 

What is Periscope? It's a short-term free video service from Twitter that let's you chat with your audience while you demonstrate a technique, or show how to prep a meal, or how to sew buttons on a bunneh... ok, so maybe not that. The videos expire 24-hours after you stop the broadcast and you get live streaming comments as you go so you can field questions. You also don't have to do voice-overs and edits, so it's faster and easier than YouTube. Check it out! It's a phone app - periscope.tv. 

Hope you're enjoying the last little bit of summer. Ta for now.

~ky

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Nest-To-Nest Announcement

You all have been asking and you've been VERY PATIENT with me. Finally, I can announce...

Online classes delivered right to your door! Squeeeeeee!!!! I love them. They are so purdy, my precious. Yes. They are. You're gonna love them. You get the stamp set, the papers, the embellishments, and all the FUN without the stress!!

I've been making cards for so long. You all have been so generous with your compliments and prodding me to build these kits. I'm so honored, and flattered, to share my gifts with you. You. Yes, YOU. How, you say? Just click here: Nest-To-Nest. Or you can click Nest-to-Nest right below the colorful header photo. Either way.

Here's a little peeky action. 

Words of Truth Card Kit

This fun set is perfect for back to school, uplifting encouragement, and a really cool way to package treats for a special someone!

Thoughts and Prayers Card Kit

We all have those dreaded times when we need a sympathy card. The worst time to make one is when you need one. This kit gives you the jump on that by having go-to designs so you can have them on hand.

I'm really looking forward to sharing my creativity with you. It's a passion of mine - spreading love and positivity even in dark times. Take advantage of my special offer - EVERYONE WHO PURCHASES A KIT GETS A SPECIAL HANDMADE ITEM FROM ME. I promise - you'll love it.

See you again soon!

~ky

Three by Three for School

Hello dear sweet people! Happy Thursday to you!

Today I'm sharing a quick little project I made. I've been feeling the direction to encourage people to take tiny steps to affect a big change in other's lives. I call it the Positivity Project (I know that term is running around the interwebs, but I didn't know that when I started. Not trying to steal anyone else's idea.).

My goal is simple: Be kind. Back to school is a crazy, hectic time of year. All that running to and fro, trying to get the school supplies, learn a new schedule, and juggle everything is a power punch to the sanity. So let's dial it back just a little.

Card base is 3x6 inches scored at 3 inches, 'wood' paper panel is 2.75x2.75 inches.

Look around you. Do you see other frazzled people? That grocery clerk let you check out in her line even though she was closing up for lunch. What about that single mom dropping kids at three different schools? She got a little car damage and is wondering where the money is going to come from. She's on the verge of tears, but then dropped her coffee. I'm telling you, life is hard.

I'm making these small items just for occasions like this. Keep these little cards in your glove box, your purse, or briefcase. Hand them out to these people. HAND THEM OUT. You can write a note in them, or just give it with a hug and tell them to use that card to tell someone else they notice and care. Take just a second to feel the warmth. Don't let your ego get involved, however.

Here's a short video on how I made this set. Enjoy it and I hope it sparks you to do something for the Positivity Project!

Maybe you don't have time to make these, or you think it's too hard for you. Contact me and we can see if I can teach you or make these for you. I guarantee this is the best mood-elevating, love-stimulating, people-uniting act in the whole world! And believe me, we need it.

Take care and SHARE!

~ky

I used my MISTI, the Most Incredible Stamp Tool Invented, for this project.

I used my Overhead Cellphone Camera Mount to video this project.

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I'm gonna gut you!

Hey there peoples of the world! We got some rain today. Finally! I think it  had been 43 days this go. We're not used to that. So while I was listening to this awesome thunderstorm, I decided you might like to learn something.

Have you ever got that nagging notice from the mailman? Your letter is being held in postage due hell? Oh that used to kill me. It never failed to happen on a Saturday and it would be Monday before Mom could pay the bail money on my pen pal letter that was barely half a page. But the glory of that half-page! Postage due is purgatory.

Today I played with my MISTI and Work Of Art stamp set. I wanted an ombre feel so I stamped the zig zags off until they faded away. The MISTI is magical for this sort of stamping!

I thought I might give you a way to save that extra penny or two while at the same time showing you how to stretch your cardstock dollar just a bit farther. It's a process known as gutting. Here's the quick video.

Now, I hope that gives you some ideas and that you PUT THEM TO USE right away. I have a little challenge that isn't too hard, and returns a lot in joy even on a dreary day. Send a card, give a note, leave a post-it for someone you don't say thanks enough to. #positivityproject. Just do it.

Off you go - have some fun. Reach out. See you soon.

~ky

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Beat the Heat

Man, it's so hot, but we did get a nice cold front steam through. Instead of 105, it's a cool 98 today. Honestly? My body can't tell the difference once we get this high. I decided to beat the heat and play with some Artist Trading Cards!

Last time, I showed you just how uncomplicated mixed media can be. Today, I'm sharing a method that isn't complicated using products you likely already have on hand. These little projects are great for the kids, too! Approachable, engaging, and easily building confidence in making art.

Artist Trading Cards (aka ATCs) are the size of a standard deck of cards (2.5 x 3.5 inches). We use them to swap techniques or just a bit of our art with other artists or collectors. They contain all the pertinent info on the reverse, and are numbered. Kind of like a cross between a baseball trading card and a business card. They are fun and addictive! They turn into a wonderful card just by matting them with a bold border and placing them on a card base.

Don't you just love the vibrant colors? Those water droplets make me feel a little cooler, too. Fun stuff! So - get out your toys and play along. Don't forget to like and subscribe if you feel led to do so. The more followers I get, the more chances I have to connect with you. And I seriously would consider it an honor to share my mixed media journey!

If you are a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator and think these projects would inspire your customers, contact me for the pdf instructions of how to lead this as a class.




Thank you for visiting my blog. Please let me know if there is something specific you would like to see or get help with, and don't forget the sweet overhead hands-free cell phone stand so you can start making your own videos, too!

Ta for now,
~ky

Additional supplies - inexpensive paint brush, Mod Podge sealer, pressurized air, Tim Holtz filmstrip, white acrylic ink, water spritzer.

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Fall Out Paper Pumpkin Style

It's hot in Texas. Really hot. We're kinda used to it but this is really hard. It 'feels like' 112*F outside today. Really weather people? Can you not say it so cheerfully? "Feels Like" is the best you've got?

Normally I do not venture far from my home in weather like this. I mean, it's a real risk of tire melt if you leave home. Most parking areas are paved in black asphalt. They say that's so the ice and snow will melt in the winter. Shhhmmmmm.... Winter is exactly 2.67 days long here. Spumall (spring-summer-fall) occupies the remainder with summer greedily usurping 90% of that. It's such a smug season, too.

I ventured away from home today because I had an 'invitation' to sit for Jury Duty. I think this is a very important civic duty. I was really disappointed in some members who arrived and snivled over every perceived slight. I like juries and the legal process. Divine providence knew I shouldn't be put at such dire risk with this weather, thus gave me a doctor's excuse.

They give you 3 chances to exempt yourself - the first are life-related, too old, too young, in school, etc. The second group are legal reasons, like, you're a felon. The third group were the infirm, hence my turtling up to the Judge to show him my high tech heart monitor gizmo that shrieks if I think about shifting my tookus while seated. It. is. HIDEOUS! The judge actually leaned away from me when I held it up for him to see. We talked about it for 15 seconds. He said, "See the clerk, best of luck to you." I have a feeling someone is going to be given new screening rules for prospective jurors.

While I was sitting there waiting my turn and getting rude stares from my peers, I was thinking about whether or not I could put together My Paper Pumpkin in such a situation. We were sardine-like in theatre seats made for little children without oil. With record high temperatures blazing down on the hot-stone-coffin that is century old brick government buildings with tall windows and poor circulation. No chance for My Pumpkin to shine.

So we hit the road. City library, toute de suite! I actually sat in my truck on a hot asphalt parking lot waiting for them to open. I was amazed at the number of people already lined up - only one had small children. This was refreshing. However, there was no space for the pumpkin and the sun was rising.

Corner bakery and step on it! I pulled it out. The food was ready before I could snap a selfie! Sigh. Off to the grocer, then home. At least this Paper Pumpkin can brag to its friends about the daring and wild life it lived.

Have you signed up for this very portable box of joy? Each month provides you with a complete project - a full set of cards, stamp set with ink, embellishments and envelopes or a set of birthday cards and gift bags - that you can work on anywhere. With anyone. Even bored kids or your office friends at lunch or with your besties as you have that last party before heading off to college. Best of all - if you are a new customer, you can get 50% off your pumpkin for the first 2 months. There is nothing to lose! Ok, well, actually you'd lose $10 a month if you didn't, so DO IT!

I'll sweeten the deal - sign up through me, and I'll send you a lovely thank you prezzie for joining! Let's play!

~ky

New Product! The Camera Stand!

I'm so excited! I haven't been too keen on making new videos because I had this problem. My set-up was bulky, hard to manage, and I had to get up on a ladder to check to see if I was still in frame. It was a bear.

Then my friend, Lydia of Understand Blue, told me to not use my big honking 35mm video beast and simplify things. I love that about her. She's wildly funny, very pithy, and such a generous sharer with her tricks and tips. Simplify. (Are you nodding along with me?)

So many selfies! 

Well, we went to convention. Together. A whole flock of little "Lydia's" in one town. I don't know how the city is still standing. We had a flaming BALL!! And I met this sweet lady, Katie, who shared her knowledge with me. DIY video stand for your cell phone!

Bev loves my little flower crab, Richard. We wuz HERE!

I about fell over dead because I'm pretty sure lightning just struck me right on the head. I was sitting next to Lydia. I'm sure that's what saved me.

When I got home, I went on the search, went to my second favorite toy store (Home Depot), and bought supplies. About 30 minutes later - eureka!

Yeah, I hope no one gets sea sick over this video. Like I said, I need help in videography! Heehee! The stand really makes a difference, though. And if you're like me... you have to clean that dinner table off to put dinner on!

Share it with your friends. I can think of so many non-crafters who would find this a big help too. I have a clickable link next to "Home" up there at the top. Click it. Order - I would love to make one for you, and you can even pick the color.

ALSO - If you'd like in on the fantastic madness and learn some sa-weeet stamping skills, check out Lydia's fall retreat: UNWIND at the Loft House! It will sell out quickly, so sign up soon!

Have a GREAT day! (Oh, and I'll have another video coming really soon, so check back!)

Ta!
~ky

Kind Koala

Hey there. Yep, it's me again. You can't get rid of me that easily! I'm back from CONVENTION! Oh my gosh, pinch me! I met so many new friends, I got a ton of ideas, and most of all I'm reminded of all the reasons we're part of this company.

The RELATIONSHIPS! 

Yeah! Card making, card mailing, card writing - it's all so personal and wonderful all in single little envelope. It is an ACTION word! Do you realize, I was gone most of a week, and when I got home... I had bills and flyers. That's it. Oh, don't get me wrong - I had a lot of emails (a few personal ones, but mostly subscriptions) and a million Facebook posts. Let's face it. As timely and as heartfelt as they are, hugging a card just before bed simply doesn't compare.

Isn't this koala simply the cutest?? I'm serious. Where else can you mail a smile like that? Easy easy easy too, and excellent if you want to let your kids color and send it to their grandparents. How 'bout tucking that into Dad's suitcase when he leaves on a business trip? We all need love. We do!

All the supplies for this card are listed at the bottom. You simply click on an item and it takes you to my store. How cool is that! I'd love it if you'd take a moment to like the video and subscribe (and please do share!) so I'll know I have viewers. If there's something you'd like to see, let me know!

I heard this rumor. Well, ok, it's not a rumor. Sunday is World Friendship Day. Did you catch the irony? Sunday? No mail day? Ha! Surely that was selected by a man. No offense, but really? Let's make it out of this world! Let's pour on the cards so that every day next week is World Friendship Day Observed! Find someone whom you haven't connected with in awhile. Send them a card. Send them another. Send one to that other person you say hi to in passing but don't get to sit down with. Encourage them. Be witty, be nice, be sassy, but most of all, be generous!

Thank you so much for visiting today. I really get a kick out of knowing you spent a few moments with me. Have a great weekend!

Ta for now,
~ky

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Letting Go

Hey I'm still alive! Yes! I've been working on a lot of things lately, and wanted to share an art journal spread with you. It's the first video I've done in quite some time! (I'm a wee bit excited, too!)

I've been chatting with a bunch of friends, and they tell me art journaling is intimidating. For some reason, everyone has this idea that you have to invest a lot of money for 'fancy' supplies that you have no idea how to use. I decided to help my peeps out and give you doable projects each month with a supply list.

Would you like that? I'll sweeten the deal. What if I give you a video using that supply list? A video that shows you a project from start to finish. Would you be interested?

If you order from me before midnight central time July 11, you can use the hostess code VBVWX679 and be entered in a drawing for hostess benefits (with qualifying purchase of $20).

I get all excited just thinking about it! So, here's the first project! SQUEEE! Do you love it? I had so much fun making this, and I got a video that shows you how I made it. At the end of this post, I listed everything I used. At first glance, it looks like a lot, but if you're a stamper, you likely have most of these supplies anyway. The quote reads "There is victory in letting go of expectations."

I'm always in favor of something that allows me to play more with toys I already have. Who needs all those unitaskers? I want mileage out of my money!

Let me know what you think. Would you be likely to give it a try? Does it look fun? Are you ready to grow your inner artist? Want something to keep the kids busy this summer? Jump in! Let's play!

Please note: The audio for this video came out very softly. Please turn up the audio on the player and on your machine. This is my first video with my computer, so I'm learning! Thanks so much for your understanding!

Other ingredients: Dylusions Mixed Media Journal (small size); Gesso; Embossing paste, Mod Podge, Mama Elephant stamps (bunny and umbrella), Copic and Pitt pens, stencils.

Other recommendations: If you prefer to work on flat pages, buy a Canson mixed media pad, remove the spiral binding or tear the page from the pad to work individually. You can rebind them later when you have several pages completed.

Built for Free Using: My Stampin Blog