ink and inspirations

Customer Q & A Stampin' Up! Retiring Sets

Stampin' Up! Customer Q & A: Retiring Sets

Have a question regarding Stampin' Up! or ink and inspirations, leave them here in the comment section!

DIY Mother's Day Gift Idea and Video Tutorial

Hi all!

Sharing a quick diy gift idea for Mother's Day using some of my Stampin' Up! supplies.
I bet you have everything you need to create a set like this.  Watch the video to see the how-to and a few tips.
Let me know if you have questions!

Stampin' Up! Video Tutorial DIY Mother's Day Gift Set

Need supplies?  You can shop HERE for preferred pricing and a chance to win Hostess Rewards! 
Use this Hostess Code BEFORE checking out...
Current Hostess Code through May 15, 2013:
X4PMS2QM

Stampin' Up! Video Tutorial- DIY Mini Paper Flowers

Stampin' Up! Mini Paper Flowers Video Tutorial

In the past, using my hot glue gun on these tiny paper flowers was pretty tricky.  Now, I'm saving my fingers from the "ouch" using a quick fix with a mini Stampin' Up! adhesive! 
Watch the video tutorial below to get the tip!  Let me know if you have questions!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stampin' Up! Video Tutorial- Mini Paper Flowers

Two Tags Die---Available While Supply Lasts!
Find the Boho Blossoms Punch Here in the Online Store.

Stampin' Up! Video Tutorial Pretty Pockets

Pretty Pockets-
Perfect for Gift Cards or Scrapbook Journaling Cards

Sharing a quick video today with a tutorial for creating a pretty pocket envelope with Stampin' Up! goodies.  One of my You Tube subscribers noted that this little project will be great for the gift giving opportunities coming up.

from Mary Ellen on You Tube...
great idea as we head into this gift giving season--grads, first communions, mother's, brides... Thanks for the details.

inkling:

As you watch the video, jot down the measurements and make a template to keep on file.  This will save time when you want to create it again. ;)

 

Stampin' Up! Video Tutorial Pretty Pocket Envelopes

Special Note:
If you'd like to participate in the Mystery Hostess Event, visit this link for details!

Stampin' Up! Remember This and That
Rotary Stamp 130133 $5.95

Stampin' Up! Video Tutorial- Ever Wonder Where To Start?

 

Stampin' Up! You're Amazing Happy Birthday Card Idea

Are you ever at a loss at WHERE to start in card making?  Watch this video tutorial to discover how you can use your Stampin' Up! Designer Paper for a quick start!

Stampin' Up! Video Tutorial Card Making 101 Tip

Stampin' Up! Video Tutorial Card Making 101 Tip

Need Stampin' Up! supplies?  You can order directly from my Online Store here or call me at 409-719-2853.

Stampin' Up! Video Tutorial DIY Envelope Tip

DIY Envelope Tip Stampin' Up! Video Tutorial

This video tutorial is in response to a question I received last week regarding DIY envelopes using Stampin' Up! Designer Series Paper. 

Take a look at this quick tip that's artsy and fun! Let me know if you have questions!

Stampin' Up! Video Tutorial DIY Envelope Tip

If you like my video tips and projects,
you will enjoy my
unique. fresh. fun.
Online Class Series.

It's  a unique, fresh, and fun paper crafting experience!

Discover how to enjoy your hobby
with just a few minutes of crafting time.

The designing and measuring are done for you...
And, you can create these projects in minutes.

My goals:
- To offer you quick, fresh, and fun projects that you can create over and over again.
- To help you discover that you do have time to create beautiful projects.
- To inspire you to use your paper crafting supplies in unique ways.

You'll receive:
Two video tutorials for projects created exclusively for unique.fresh.fun.members.

1. One video will be a step by step for a great card idea that YOU can create in 10 minutes or less!
2. About two weeks later, you'll receive another video  that will include the how-to for a *3D project such as a party favor, treat box or wrap, box, or little gift!

Also included:

• Video notes and annotations to make it easy for you to create each project.

• Color photos of the finished projects.

• *A PDF file of the 3D/gift project with dimensions and tips.

• Anytime access to watch the videos at your convenience.

• Prompt replies to your questions sent via email.

This is a 12 month online class program with a project idea and video tutorial delivered twice a month.

Pay monthly at $9.97 per month for 12 months.
(You can cancel at anytime.)

 

Priority Subscription Form

YES! I would like to subscribe to unique. fresh. fun.!  

• I understand I will be billed $9.97 today, and will receive an email twice a month containing links to a unique. fresh. fun. video tutorial.
  
• I also understand I will be billed $9.97 every 30 days for 12 months for my  subscription.
• I can cancel at any time with no questions asked.

***After you subscribe, you'll be taken to a page with a form to complete to allow the emails with projects to be sent to you.  Please complete the form then look for the follow up email to confirm.

Get started today!

Stampin' Up! Video Tutorial- Oh Hello Watercolor

Stampin' Up! Oh Hello Birthday Card <br>and Watercolor Tutorial

Discover this easy Stampin' Up! watercolor technique in the video tutorial.  Just another way to produce this artistic effect for your card making and paper crafting projects!

Watch the tutorial below and let me know if you have questions!

Stampin' Up! Video Tutorial- Easy Watercolor Look

If you enjoyed this watercoloring tip video tutorial, please use one of the social sharing buttons below this post and share with with your friends!

Stampin' Up! Video Tutorial- Word Window Punch Tip

Word Window Punch Video Tutorial
and Easter Place Card Idea

Today, I have a video tutorial with a tip for "customizing" the Word Window Punch from Stampin' Up!  Aren't these little Ears to You Easter place cards cute?  I personalized these with the Designer Typeset Photopolymer Stamps. 

Watch the video below and I'll show you how to adjust the size of the punch to fit your name or sentiment.

Stampin' Up! Video Tutorial- Word Window Punch Tip

Stampin' Up! Video Tutorial- DIY Feathers with Canvas Creations

DIY Feathers with Stampin' UP! Canvas Creations

Feathers are trending in paper crafting and you can make your own using Canvas Creations from Stampin' Up!  Catch the how-to in the video tutorial below!

Stampin' Up! Video Tutorial- DIY Feathers Using Canvas Creations

DIY Feathers with Canvas Creations

Have you tried this awesome Stampin' Up! product? 
Check out my decorative banner and more Canvas Creations tips in another video tutorial HERE.

Stampin' Up! Product Review- Designer Typeset Photopolymer Stamps

Typeset Alphabet Photopolymer Stamp Set

The new Designer Typeset Photopolymer Stamps (132956) from Stampin' Up! arrived on my doorstep yesterday so I had to "play" last night.

The following list is a review and my first impressions of working with this set:

• Very sticky...in a good way!  Great cling to the clear blocks!
• The ink does stain the stamps, even after cleaning right away, but doesn't effect stamping or the images.
• This is a tiny alphabet.  You'll want to replace images to the storage sheet immediately after cleaning.
• I tried to line up a string of letters to stamp at once but I found I could not space close enough. 
• LOVE, LOVE the pennant banner and speech bubble!!!
• I used the Clear Mount Perfectly Placed Guides (121785) on my clear block to get that "awesome" curve.
• The trendy hashtag is great! The #loveyousomuch was stamped individually word by word then pieced together on the card layer.
• This set takes a little time to use BUT with the unique and personalized results; it's so worth it!
  
  
  

  Love the hashtag symbol!
  
  Start creating your own personalized greetings with the New Designer Typeset Photopolymer Stamp Set.  Click HERE to order!
  

Stampin' Up! Vintage Verses Masculine Card

Stampin' Up! Vintage Verses...for my man!

Can masculine cards contain Stampin' Up! embellishments typically thought as strictly feminine?  Well, of course! 

With the right combination of color and neutrals, you can definitely pull this off.  And, I'll tell you another secret...as long as the sentiment is one that will give a little tug to their heart strings, it will be perfect.  Sure, some guys won't admit it, but most of them appreciate a little touch of pretty-ness...especially from their honey.

I'd love to show you more ways to use products and stamp sets that you have on hand to design something unique and well,manly. ;)

In Mainly Manly Cards, you will:

•  Discover how to use your supplies to create masculine themed cards.
•  Learn techniques that you can use on any card you create.
• Gain access to video tutorials that demonstrate techniques and how to create masculine themed cards.

You can discover new techniques
AND
how to create masculine themed cards
in my monthly online video class,
Mainly Manly Cards!

 

Sent to you each month:

• You will receive a masculine themed card idea as well as a step by step video tutorial-- a virtual class-- demonstrating the how-to with tips and suggestions.

• Then, about two weeks later, you'll receive another email with a completed card project with a different take on the previous card's design.  We'll change the color scheme, theme, orientation, etc.

And, the cost is only $4.95 per month!

Ready to join us?

YES! I would like to subscribe to Mainly Manly Cards!  

• I understand I will be billed $4.95 today, and will receive an email twice a month containing links to project ideas for masculine themed cards.
  
• I also understand I will be billed $4.95 every 30 days for my continuing subscription.
• I can cancel at any time with no questions asked.

PayPal manages payments through my account - ljsb4@sbcglobal.net

As a Mainly Manly Cards member, you will also receive:

My TOP 10 List of Tips on using your traditionally
        feminine - themed supplies on your masculine cards!

ALSO, a video slide show of some of our favorite
        non- traditional masculine card ideas!

PLUS, a list of Five Color Secrets  for masculine themed cards.

Stampin' Up! Vintage Verses Masculine Card

I hope you'll join me today in my masculine card online class,
Mainly Manly Cards!

 

How Do You Keep Stampin' Up! Paper and Ink Organized?

I recently had a question from a customer regarding organization of Stampin' Up! paper and ink...

I am trying to order paper and ink and get all the colors organized. How do you keep it all in order?

 

Now for your question on organization....whew!

I have the ink caddy from the catalog for my ink pads.  It is really handy and there is a little tray on top for your reinkers.

I have the little caddy that the complete marker set came in so that keeps those organized.

Now for paper...

I wish I could say that I had one of those fancy-schmancy racks or cubbies for my paper, but I don't.
I have the plastic "rubber maid" drawers (12 x 12) that you can stack and come in sets of three.  Now, it's not real pretty, but it keeps it organized.

I have a drawer dedicated for:

• each color collection
•  one for specialty papers like glossy card stock and vellum
•  two for the neutrals since I have more of that than anything. :)  

Then, I have a drawer for each color collection for my scraps.  I pull from those drawers all the time!  These pieces are great for punching or die cutting with my Big Shot.

Designer paper...

I have a small cart with wheels with large hanging files for my current designer paper. I love it.  I keep it right beneath my work table and can pull from it easily.

The retired or discontinued paper is in another set of those rubber maid drawers.  Since I have to work with and demonstrate the current stuff, I rarely have packs of anything left over but I do keep pieces that are big enough for banner pieces, etc. 

I used to hoard my supplies...now I try to use it up!

I keep a smaller set of drawers on my work table.  One drawer has Whisper White and Very Vanilla scraps for stamping.  The other two drawers have my Stampin' Up! Envelopes.

I hope that gives you some idea of what works for me.

 

And, honestly, it's usually a mess in this work room!
But, I'll clean it up and start over when it gets too bad! 
I know where everything is...most of the time...and it works for me. 

If you have a stamping, paper crafting, or Stampin' Up! question that you'd like for me to answer, e-mail me!

I'll share it here!

Case of the Secret Chevron and a Stampin' Up! Video Tutorial

Stampin' Up! Chevron Secret and Oh, Hello

A chevron secret and a Stampin' Up! Video Tutorial??? You'll have to watch the video to solve this case!
I was so excited to discover this, I couldn't wait to share it with you.

And, now the details of the case...;).

Stampin' Up! Secret Chevron Video Tutorial

I hope you give this Stampin' Up! Chevron Secret a try!  It's a fun way to add a trendy element to your hand-made cards!

Related articles

Oh, Hello! Stampin' Up! Masculine Card

Stampin' Up! Customer Q & A

Stampin' Up! Scrapbooking

My Stampin' Up! customers, Facebook fans, and blog readers often send in questions regarding specific stamping techniques or Stampin' Up! products.

Recently I received this question regarding Stampin' Up! adhesives.  The following is the actual question and my response:

Question:
Do you offer a specific glue to be used on scrapbooking pages?

Answer:

For scrapbooking, I can recommend two that I prefer which are both photo safe and acid free:

• Tombow Mono Multi Liquid Glue 110755...This is a liquid glue that dries clear. If you adhere your photo or element to your page while the glue is still wet; the bond is permanent. If you let the glue dry before positioning or placing on your page; it will be removable. *Must use a light hand when applying. Best to apply in small dots on the back of your piece.
• SNAIL Adhesive 104332 and Refill 104331- Double sided, tape runner adhesive. Permanent bond.  I have found that it's best to burnish your piece after adhering to get a good bond. 
• Something else I recommend for buttons and other embellishments are Mini Glue Dots 103683.  Acid free.
• For heavier embellishments, I recommend Sticky Strip 104294.  Acid Free.
• An Adhesive Remover 103684 is good to have on hand to remove unwanted areas of adhesive... Tombow Glue (after drying) and SNAIL.

I hope this Stampin' Up! Q & A information is helpful to you for choosing your adhesives for paper crafting and scrapbooking!

Stampin' Up! Thoughts and Prayers Card and Video Tutorial

Stampin' Up! Thoughts and Prayers Sympathy Card

The Stampin' Up! Thoughts and Prayers set (wood, clear) make beautiful sympathy cards.  This is my go-to set for sending comforting thoughts in difficult times.  Included are two beautiful images but I find the heartfelt sentiments are exactly right when it's hard to find words.

Using neutral colors with a Crumb Cake emphasis, I've used the 5/8" Flower Trim and the Tea Lace Paper Doilies as accents on this card.  Look closely to notice the subtle difference in color.  Here's a video tutorial to show you how to get that look.

 

Stampin' Up! Video Tutorial- Tea Lace and Flower Trim Tips

inklings:

• The Natural Composition Specialty Paper makes a quick yet beautiful card base.
• Providing additional neutral accents are the Victoria Crochet Trim, Crumb Cake Seam Binding Ribbon, and Vintage Faceted Buttons.
• The sentiment is die cut with the Window Frame Framelits and the Scallop Edge Border Punch provides a delicate edging.
• Stippled Blossoms (wood, clear) adds some interest to the sentiment piece.

Flower Trim and Tea Lace Details

Reminder...

Shop through my Online Store for your supplies and reap the rewards!

During Sale-A-Bration... January 22 - March 22, 2013...with every *$50 you spend (including online orders),
you will earn one FREE Sale-A-Bration item. 
Here's a flyer with your 19 item choices!

Also, with each *$50 in product purchase, you'll earn one spot on the ink and inspirations 50/50 Board. 
Learn more about this chance to win FREE product HERE!
(50/50 Board Spots are only available through orders placed with me, Lisa Brown, Stampin' Up! Demonstrator.)

Supplies for this Stampin' Up! Thoughts and Prayers card are available in my Online Store, 24/7.

Last Minute Gifts

Stippled Blossoms Note Card Set

I've been busy in the kitchen most of the day and tomorrow I need to tidy up around the house and wrap a few more gifts.  But, I'll be in my stamp room for a bit tomorrow finishing some pretty packaging and maybe even record a video. ;)

I was up late last night working on the note card gift sets seen here using the Stippled Blossoms set (wood, clear).  These come together in a jiffy and make a nice hand-made gift.  I made 4 notecards for each set.

Here are a few tips to help you put a few sets together:

• Cut colored card stock for the base at 4 1/4" x 5 1/2".
• Cut light neutral at 4 " x 5 1/2".
• Stamp image on neutral piece in a corner or along an edge.
• Adhere stamped piece to colored base.
• Stamp image in a lower corner of each envelope.
• Secure notecards and envelopes with ribbon.

These sets will be for some family members but are also good to have on hand for party hostesses or holiday visitors!

After being up late last night and the busy-ness of the day, I am ready for a goos night's rest.  Our girls and their husbands will be in town for Christmas Eve and Day...so looking forward to having them!

Before I close, I want to take this opportunity to tell you how much I appreciate each and every one of you.
My husband, Jackie and I would like to extend to you warm holiday greetings and blessings in this holy season.  
May the Spirit of Christmas fill your hearts with love and peace! 

 

Remember to check the CLEARANCE RACK for some great deals while supplies last!! 

 

Visit the Online Store Now to take advantage of the Clearance Rack Blitz!

Stampin' Up! Petal Cone Treat Pouch

Stampin' Up! Scentsational Season, Snow Festival DSP, and the Petal Cone Die

Lots of last minute prepartions going on in the Brown household!  Our family and friend gatherings begin tomorrow evening but I'll be sharing some quick ideas and tips from now until after Christmas!

This little treat pouch is created with one cut of the Stampin' Up! Petal Cone Die. Just adhere the single layer together to make a pouch and you have an adorable treat for someone special.  I'll try to get a video tutorial ready for you in the next few days with a couple of tips on cutting and assembly! Also featured here is the Scentsational Season Bundle (wood, clear), and the fun and fabulous, Snow Festival DSP.

Be sure to follow me at Ink and Inspirations with Lisa Brown on Facebook for more tips and holiday ideas!

Hope you're enjoying the hustle and the bustle!... I sure am!

Related articles

Stampin' Up! Christmas Spirit and Favorite of Christmas Past

Stampin' Up! Video Tutorial - Easy Snow Festival Gift Tags

In Crafting and Stamping...Timing is Everything!

In this post, we "discussed" time and how precious those moments are when we can sneak in some time to craft.

On that same note, I have a blog buddy in NYC who is a talented crafter and knock- your-socks-off art journaler, Julie Fei-Fan Balzer.  She inspires me and gets me to dig deep into what is possible in self expression by means of our craft.

Julie had a great post on managing time the other day and I had to share her great tips that are real and do-able!

1. Let the crock pot do the cooking.  Love this one...pretty much prepare it in the morning and it's ready for the evening meal.
2. Limit computer time.  I think we can all relate to that one??
3. Carry a notebook.  (Or a portable project for those "wait" times when you're out and about.)
4. I make art in the morning.  I think we're all most productive after that first cuppa.
5. Phone time = Art Time  I would say I'm guilty of that but there's really nothing to feel guilty about! 
   My Mom:  "Lisa, what is that noise?"
   Me:  "Oh, I'm just working on a project."
   My Mom: Oh, ok...have to talked to you sister today...etc.
   And, the beat goes on.
   Just so you know, I don't heat emboss or cut card stock when on the phone with Mom. That would be a little much. ;)

I thought these were great tips for carving in some crafting time. Try one or all and let me know how it goes!

And, if you want to make the most of the time you have,
join me in the Inkspiration Classroom.

I'll save you time and you will create fun and beautiful projects!
Come on in!

Stampin' Up! Lacy Brocade and Core'dinations Birthday Card

 

Stampin' Up! Lacy Brocade Birthday Card

Happy Friday to all!

 

I am visiting family this weekend, but I wanted to share this birthday card that I made for a friend using the Stampin Up! Lacy Brocade Textured Impressions Folder and Core'dinations Card Stock from the Holiday Catalog.

A gold embossed image from the Artistic Etchings set (wood, clear) is backed with a Scallop Circle stamped with the Etruscan Elegance Stampin' Around Wheel that is no longer a wheel...I can explain that HERE.

For more tips on this card...
Visit and "like" my ink and inspirations page on Facebook to see one of my Facebook First Cut videos!

See you there!

Stampin' Up! Artistic Etchings

SPECIAL!   October 1-31,2012: Get a FREE Festive Paper-Piercing Pack when you purchase the Ornament Keepsakes Set and Candlelight Christmas Specialty Designer Series Paper. Click Here for Details.

Stampin Up! Video Tutorial- Vintage Greetings of the Season Tips

Stampin' Up! Christmas Greetings of the Season Christmas

 

Earlier today, I promised I video tutorial in celebration of the kick off of my 12 Weeks of Christmas campaign!  This card uses some great products from the Stampin' Up! Holiday Catalog and features neutral colors with a pop of Cherry Cobbler!

Enjoy the video and let me know if you have questions!

Stampin' Up! Video Tutorial Vintage Candlelight Christmas

(I am sorry about the video quality! Not sure what happened!)

Thanks for watching!  Have a great day!  Lisa