CASE the Catalog: Using Other Cards As Inspiration

Case-the-catalog-friendly-seagulls-1CASE is the acronym for Copy And Share Everything or Copy And Selectively Edit and refers using another card or project as inspiration to create a card or other project.  Today's project is a CASE from a card in the Sale-A-Bration brochure. 

Here's the card.  You can see the similarities.

CASE-catalog-SAB-seagulls

The gulls are stamped on three pieces of Basic White that are cut 1 3/4" wide by 2" tall.  Black Memento ink was used to stamp the images and the gulls were colored with Stampin' Blends in Balmy Blue, Gray Granite, and Daffodil Delight.

Case-the-catalog-friendly-seagulls-2That blue gingham on the bottom layer is from the 6 x 6 Timeless Plaid Designer Series Paper collection.  This stack of papers is perfect for using with this stamp set.

Don’t wait—Sale-A-Bration ends February 28th! Get some supplies to create this card and reach the qualifying order of $60 or more and get your FREE Friendly Seagulls stamp set. Head over to my online shop today and get ready to have fun creating with Friendly Seagulls.

 


Easy Coloring with Watercolor Pencils

Seagulls-friend-card-1Today's card project features an easy watercolor technique with the Sale-A-Bration stamp set, Friendly Seagulls.  

It's been a while since I've used this technique but these Watercolor Pencils plus a Blender Pen make for a super easy method for coloring.  This coloring medium was the first for me all those 18 years ago when first introduced to Stampin' Up!

In this quick video with this card assembly, you'll see how easy it is to use these Watercolor Pencils.

Today's card project features an easy watercolor technique with the Sale-A-Bration stamp set, Friendly Seagulls from Stampin' Up! If you’re looking to create something cheerful, these seagulls will surely bring a smile to the recipient.

For this card, I used one of my favorite methods: watercoloring with Watercolor Pencils and a Blender Pen. It’s such a simple yet beautiful way to add color to your stamped images. This technique holds a special place in my heart as it’s the first one I learned when I joined Stampin’ Up! 18 years ago.

With just a few strokes of the pencils and some blending, you can achieve beautiful colors and shading that make your images pop.

In this quick video with the card assembly, you'll see how easy it is to use these Watercolor Pencils.

Earn the Friendly Seagulls Stamp Set for FREE!

The Friendly Seagulls stamp set is part of Stampin' Up!'s Sale-A-Bration promotion, running through February 28th. During this time, you can earn this adorable set (and other fantastic products) for FREE with every $60 purchase from a select group of Stampin' Up! products.

To make it easy to qualify, I recommend adding the Watercolor Pencils to your cart. Pair them with some other crafting staples to reach the $60 threshold—and just like that, you’ll be creating with these friendly seagulls in no time!

Seagulls-friend-card-2

Don’t wait—Sale-A-Bration ends February 28th! Grab your Watercolor Pencils, Blender Pen, and other must-have supplies to qualify for your FREE Friendly Seagulls stamp set. Head over to my online shop today!


Make A Card for A Friend with Terrific Toadstools

Card-for-friend-terrific-toadstools-2

If you need an idea for a card for a friend, here's one from our latest livestream with the Terrific Toadstools Bundle.    This simple design and classic cuts is the perfect backdrop for these trendy toadstools.  You can see the video how-to in the segment from the recording of the livestream below.

Lisa's Inklings:

  • The card base is cut 4 1/4" x 11" and scored at 5 1/2".
  • Patterned paper is cut 4" x 5 1/4" for the bold print and 1 1/2" x 5 1/4" for the contrasting strip.
  • Gold Foil:  3/4" x 4"
  • Basic White for sentiment is cut 1" x 2 3/4"for sentiment and 4" x 5 1/4" for inside of card.

That adorable patterned paper is a Sale-A-Bration offering, Toadstool Gardens, and you can get it FREE with a qualifying purchase of $60 or more.              

Card-for-friend- terrific-toadstoolsShop now for the Terrific Toadstools Bundle add on some necessities and reach $60 so you can earn the Toadstool Gardens DSP for FREE!

 


A Terrific Gift Idea with Those Trendy Toadstools

Gift-tag-terrific-toadstools-towel

If you've followed me for a while, you know I love creating thoughtful, trendy, and practical gifts—and one of my favorites to add a paper crafting flair to cute towels! There’s just something so special about combining our creativity with a useful item, and I’m excited to share my latest project featuring the Terrific Toadstools Bundle from the Stampin' Up! Mini Catalog.

This project came together so easily thanks to the precious images and coordinating punch in this bundle. Taking inspiration from the colors in the towel, I selected papers and ink shades that complement the design of the toadstools on the towels. 

If you missed my Live this past week on Facebook and YouTube, don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! The project demonstration is available for you to watch below.  Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or just getting started, I hope this video will inspire you to create your own trendy towel gift set.

 

Ready to get started into this fun project? Leave a comment if you'd like for me to send you the cutting measurements.
The Terrific Toadstools Bundle is available now in my Online Store! This bundle is perfect for all kinds of projects—from cards to home decor and, of course, gift items like these towels.

Terrific Toadstools Bundle

Shop the Terrific Toadstools Bundle Now!

 


Just Poppin' In With Terrific Toadstools

Toadstools-mini-front-fold-1

Just poppin' in with Terrific Toadstools Bundle (English) [164790]on this  terrific Tuesday! Hope you all had a great weekend.

Today's card is a simple design with it's narrow card front flap.  The base is a single layer of cardstock and shows off the patterned paper...Toadstool Gardens.  (Earn this paper stack for FREE with a $60 product purchase.)

Lisa's Inklings:

  • Card base is Basic White 5 1/2" x 4 1/4" covered with a 4" x 5 1/4" of designer paper.  Don't you love those bright colors?
  • Front mini card is in Basic White is 10 1/2" x 2 3/4" scored and folded in half at 5 1/4". 
  • Front piece of designer paper is cut 2 1/2" x 5".
  • Old Olive label is cut with the Greetings of the Seasons dies.
  • Punch toadstool pieces from Basic White first; then stamp. 
  • Sentiment is stamped on a piece of Basic White that is 2 3/8" x 3/4".

Toadstools-mini-front-fold-2You can create some fun cards with this precious bundle!  Order your Terrific Toadstools Bundle  today and have fun crafting!

 


Trending Toadstools Fun Fold Card

Toadstools-fun-fold-live-1

You may have noticed that toadstools are popular and the Terrific Toadstools Bundle hits the mark for that trend.   Last week on our livestream, we shared a sweet fun fold card that will be so easy for you to re-create!

Watch the recording below to see the process and tips for using this bundle!

Lisa's Inklings:

  • Card Base is cut 4 1/4" x 11".  Score at 2 3/4" and 8 1/4".
  • Toadstool Garden DSP (FREE with a qualifying purchase): Cut 2 pieces at 2 1/2" x 4".
  • Wrap and apply ribbon after adhering patterned paper pieces.
  • Punch toadstool pieces from Basic White before stamping.

Toadstools-fun-fold-live-2Join in on the toadstool trend and craft your own little "mushroom" garden on your cards or scrapbook pages.  It's a great way to usher in the upcoming season even though we are still freezing for a while!

Toadstools-fun-fold-live-3Get your trendy Terrific Toadstools Bundle today in the Online Store and get this precious coordinating paper FREE when your order totals $60 or more!  Stay tuned for more inspiring ideas throughout the week!


Are you ready to create a unique and over- the- top card that your family and friends will love?

Jan-class-stuffed-pocket

Introducing the Stuffed Pocket Card Class!

This online video class will guide you step-by-step in crafting a stunning pocket card packed with delightful tags and elements—perfect for heartfelt gift-giving or surprising someone special.

Get it now at the Early Bird Price of $17 until January 16th!

Click HERE to read more about it and to get the Early Bird Price!


Let's Get This Party Started!

Sab-party

It’s the most wonderful time of the crafting year—Sale-A-Bration is here! If you love crafting products like me, you know this is the perfect opportunity to stock up on your favorite supplies and earn FREE goodies along the way.

This year’s Sale-A-Bration promotion is bigger and better than ever, coinciding with the launch of the new Mini Catalog and some exciting additions to the scrapbooking line. You’ll find lots of new stamps and papers and new Scrapbooking Workshop Kits along with some awesome new basics.  The more you purchase, the more you earn!

Here’s how it works:

For every $60 you spend, you’ll earn exclusive Sale-A-Bration items for FREE. Think designer papers, stamp sets, and more—only available during this special promotion from January 7- February 28..

Whether you’re exploring memory-keeping with the new scrapbooking line or enjoying all the possibilities with the products in the Mini Catalog, there’s never been a better time to shop for supplies and create something beautiful.

Sale-A-Bration only lasts for a limited time, so don’t wait! Let’s make this crafting season one to remember Click here to start shopping or contact me to learn more.


Start the New Year with Hearts of Elegance

Hearts-of elegance-LIVE

Happy New Year, friends! 🌟

As we step into a fresh year, it’s the perfect time to let our creativity shine and spread a little love through the art of paper crafting.

This week’s LIVE was all about creating heartfelt projects with the Hearts of Elegance Bundle and the beautiful Marbled Elegance Specialty Designer Series Paper.

These gorgeous products are a match perfect for creating Valentine’s Day cards, love notes, or thoughtful keepsakes to share with your loved ones. From die-cut hearts to rich, marbled patterns, this combination allows you to craft with beauty and grace.

Hearts-of-elegance-live-card

During the LIVE broadcast, we showcased two heartfelt projects that you can easily recreate at home. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or just starting out, these designs are versatile and can be adapted to match your personal style.

If you missed the broadcast, you can catch the replay where I walk you through the projects step by step.

Lisa's Inklings (Card):

  • Base: Real Red is 5 1/2 x 8 1/2  
  • Two pieces of DSP- one is 2 x 4 1/4 and 1 3/4 x 4 and a small die cut heart
  • Basic White: Embossed die cut heart, 7/8 x 3 3 1/4 for sentiment, and 4 x 5 1/4 for the inside.

(Bag)

  • DSP: 6 x 6 scored at 1 3/4, 2 3/4, 4 1/2, and 5 1/2.  Turn and score at 1" for the bag bottom. Die cut a small heart.
  • Basic White: Die Cut heart

Hearts-of-elegance-live-bag

Both the Hearts of Elegance Bundle and the Marbled Elegance Specialty Designer Series Paper are available in the Online Section of the Online Store. Don’t wait too long—these items are sure to be favorites this season!

 Use the instructions and inspiration from the LIVE to craft something special. Whether it’s a heartfelt card for Valentine’s Day or a little handmade bag with a sweet treat, your creations will surely spread peace, hope, and light.

Let’s make 2025 a year filled with creativity and connection. I can’t wait to see how you use these products to share your love and light with others. Be sure to share your projects—I’d love to celebrate your creativity with you!


Make It In Minutes Gift Card Holder

Envelope-gift-card-holderHere's a gift card holder that you can make in minutes! You'll need an envelope, some card stock and a few pieces of patterned paper.  Embellish as you wish!

The how-to video is below!

Lisa's Inklings:

  • (2) 2 1/2" x 4" patterned paper
  • (2) 2 3/4"  x 4 1/4" coordinating patterned paper
  • (1) 2 3/4" x 4 1/4" piece of coordinating card stock and 1" x 8" of same color CS for belly band.
  • Envelope measures 4 1/2" x 5 7/8".

Make this one in minutes for those last minute cash or gift card gifts.  Adding your handmade touch makes your gifts extra special!


A 20-Minute Evening Housekeeping Routine to Keep Your Home Tidy During the Holiday Season

Bonus Days (1)

It's the Christmas season and we've been talking about managing stress and overwhelm.  The holidays are a time for joy, celebration, and making memories with those we love—but they can also bring a little extra mess into our homes. Between the decorations, the festive meals, and the bustle of daily life, it’s easy for clutter to sneak up on us.

But the good news is, keeping your home tidy during the busy holiday season doesn’t have to be overwhelming. A simple 20-minute evening routine can help keep things in check, allowing you to enjoy the season without feeling like you’re constantly cleaning up after it.

Here’s a stress-free, easy-to-follow evening routine that can help you maintain a tidy home during the holidays:

1. Clear Off Flat Surfaces

Take 5 minutes to quickly go around and clear any clutter from countertops, tables, and other flat surfaces. Holiday décor and daily life can leave things scattered, so this simple task can instantly make a room feel cleaner. Put away mail, empty cups, and stray items that tend to collect throughout the day. If there are things that don’t belong, set them aside to deal with tomorrow.

2. Do a Quick Dish Round-Up

Spend 5 minutes tidying up the kitchen. If there are dirty dishes in the sink or leftover items on the counter from dinner, quickly wash them or load them into the dishwasher. Even if you’re not able to get everything done, just clearing out the sink and wiping down counters can make a big difference. The kitchen is one of the most used spaces during the holidays, and starting with a clean slate can make your mornings feel calmer.

3. Tidy Up the Living Room

Dedicate a few minutes to picking up the living room. Fluff the pillows, fold any blankets, and straighten out the chairs. If there are toys, books, or other items scattered around, gather them and place them in their designated spots. This small act will create a peaceful environment for you to relax in at the end of the day.

4. Wipe Down Bathroom Surfaces

Bathrooms can get a lot of traffic during the holidays, with guests coming in and out. Take 3 minutes to quickly wipe down bathroom counters, sinks, and mirrors. This doesn’t have to be a deep clean, just a quick once-over to make everything look fresh. A clean bathroom will make a big difference when you need to freshen up or prepare for the day ahead.

5. Pick Up Holiday Clutter

With all the holiday activities going on, it’s easy for little bits of décor, wrapping supplies, or holiday cards to accumulate. Spend a few minutes picking up any stray holiday-related items and putting them in their proper place. If there are things you haven’t gotten to yet—like wrapping gifts or sorting through cards—put them in a basket or box to deal with when you have more time.

6. Set Yourself Up for Tomorrow

Take a moment to set yourself up for a smooth morning. Lay out your clothes for the next day, prep the coffee pot, or make sure your bag is packed and ready to go. This can be a great way to feel prepared and less stressed in the morning which are usually busy times in most households.

7. Do a Quick Sweep of the Entryway

The entryway is the first thing people see when they enter your home, so spending 2-3 minutes tidying here will make a big impact. If you have guests coming over, this is especially helpful. It’s a small task that takes hardly any time but gives your home a welcoming feel.

8. Take a Few Deep Breaths and Enjoy Your Clean Space

Finally, take a moment to appreciate the work you’ve done. The holiday season can feel chaotic, but by sticking to this short, evening routine, you’ll end each day with a sense of calm. Light a candle or play some soft music, and enjoy the peacefulness of your tidy space. You’ve earned it!


The Perfect Gift for Crafters---Just In Time for Christmas

 

SAMPLE Gift Certificate

Christmas is just around the corner—can you believe it? With only a little over a week to go, many of us are scrambling to find those last-minute gifts.
Maybe you’ve been asked, “What would you like for Christmas?” and you’re stumped. Or perhaps you’re shopping for someone who adores crafting, but you’re not sure what they already have or need.

I’ve got you covered! As an independent Stampin’ Up! demonstrator, I’m offering Ink and Inspirations Gift Certificates that can be used for crafting supplies or even my online classes. It’s the perfect solution for both crafters and their loved ones who may need a little gift-giving inspiration.

Why It’s the Perfect Gift for Crafters

Ink and Inspirations Gift Certificates offer flexibility and choice—two things every crafter loves! Recipients can use them to purchase Stampin’ Up! products through me, or they can apply them toward my exclusive online classes. Whether they’re (or, you're) dreaming of new stamps, papers, or learning fun project ideas , this gift certificate ensures they (0r, you!) get exactly what's wanted.

With time running out before Christmas, these gift certificates are a lifesaver. No shipping delays, no endless searching for the perfect gift, and no stress. Once purchased, the digital certificate will be emailed directly to you, so you can print it out and present it beautifully—or simply forward it to the recipient if you’re really in a pinch!

How It Works

  1. Choose the Amount: You decide the value of the gift certificate based on your budget.
  2. Place Your Order: Contact me directly to purchase your Ink and Inspirations Gift Certificate. (Call 409.719.2853 or email [email protected])
  3. Receive Your Certificate: After payment, I’ll email your digital certificate.
  4. Print or Send: Print it at home and include it in a card, or forward it electronically to the recipient.

When ready to order, the recipient should call me at 409.719.2853 to place their order.  I will apply the gift certificate amount to their order total and  I will collect their payment information for the balance of their order.

Whether you’re a crafter yourself looking for something to ask for this year, or you’re shopping for a creative friend or family member, an Ink and Inspirations Gift Certificate is the ultimate gift. It’s personal, thoughtful, and guaranteed to bring joy to the crafter in your life.

Don’t let the holiday rush overwhelm you—solve your last-minute gift-giving dilemma with an Ink and Inspirations Gift Certificate. Contact me today to order, and let’s make this Christmas merry and stress-free for you and the special crafter in your life.


Tea for Two in Super Cute Package

Tea-for-two

Tea, anyone?  Here's an easy little package that you can make with four scores on a 6" x 6" piece of patterned paper.

Follow the step by step how-to in today's video tutorial.

Lisa's Inklings:

  • Patterned paper is cut 6" x 6".
  • With one set of points on the 6" mark, score 1/2" on each side of that line.
  • Turn to line up other two points and score 1 1 /2" off that 6" line.
  • Fold as shown in the video.

Use this packaging idea for more than just tea bags!  Try cash, gift cards, wrapped flat candies like Ghirardelli squares! 

Make this assembly as easy as can be with a Simply Scored Scoring Tool
Don't have one?
Put it on your Christmas wish list then contact me with your loved ones email address and I will let them know!

Enjoy using your paper crafting supplies for holiday packaging adding your special heartfelt touch to your gifts.


DIY Gift Packaging: Milk Carton Style Box

Gift-box-bath-bomb-christmas

The holiday season is upon us, and it's a great time to create DIY gift packaging with your paper crafting supplies. In this week's LIVE video, we demonstrated how to create an adorable milk carton-style box. This project is sized perfectly for bath bombs, wrapped candies, or other small gifts! 

There’s something special about giving a gift that’s packaged in something handmade. This milk carton-style box is not only functional; it's so much fun to make. Whether you’re gifting a spa-like bath bomb or a selection of sweet treats, this little box makes it feel even more personal and festive.

Watch the video below to see how this project comes together step by step:

Why the Simply Scored Scoring Tool?

The Simply Scored Scoring Tool is a paper crafter’s best friend, especially for 3D projects like this milk carton box. It allows you to create perfect, even score lines, ensuring your boxes and bags come out just right every time. Whether you’re making gift boxes, treat bags, or other dimensional projects, this tool is a must-have in your crafting space.

Simply-scored-scoring-tool-122334

Ready to Get Started?

Visit my online store to shop for the products you need to make this project. Be sure to check out the Simply Scored Scoring Tool—it’s an essential tool for all your box, bag, and 3D paper crafting projects. Happy crafting, and may your holiday season be filled with creativity and joy!