Mary's Cards

Too many blogs, not enough time

2008-06-01T06:41:00.001-04:00

I've decided not to continue posting to this blog. It will stay active but I won't be updating it...

I just have too many blogs and not enough time to update all 3 of them. I may change my mind in future but for now I'll be posting all of my card creations on my main blog page at

Mary's Creative Zone

Thanks and sorry for the inconvienance!

Pocket Card

2008-05-24T06:26:00.000-04:00

If you've been following my posts on the Creative Zone and the Scrap Zone you'll know that I participated in the Celebrity Sketch Extravaganza over at Scrapbookers Club House. Ali (PR director at the SBCH) did a super job getting the most fab designers to provide sketches for us to play with. [insert applause here - with a few standing O's]

The one thing that was super was that there were sketches for both scrappers and card makers!

Here is my interpretation of the fab sketch provided by Brenda Pannick.

Now the photo isn't the greatest but - there are 2 pockets - the back one where the diagonal scallop edge and the paper clip bookmark are AND the floral band where the "wishing you sunshine" sentiment is.

I plan on slipping a couple of movie tickets in the back pocket and a gift card to Chapters in the front pocket - cute eh?? I glued the card together instead of using a sewing machine as Brenda suggested, so I added a few eyelets at the pocket edges to give it some strength.

This is a super concept for gift giving and it can be made to fit any size envelope. Plus you can do the pockets any dimension or wave or shape - try one out - the possibilities are endless!

fiskars cut flower card

2008-05-16T21:00:00.003-04:00

It's been a while since I've posted a card.

My only excuse is that I've been concentrating on other things.

This card was designed specifically for my craft critique review on the fiskars fingertip knife. I really love the coral colours of this American Crafts paper. The punch of black and white ribbon really "make" the card in my opinion and quite honestly was a fluke and last minute somethin' somethin'...

hmmm...I wonder who will be the recipient of this card....let me ponder that for a while.

New cards coming soon

2008-04-18T09:47:00.001-04:00

Sorry for being absent - family issues at the moment.

I'll be back to a "semi' normal state next week with some cards so stay tuned...

Promised photos from Helen's house

2008-03-19T07:55:00.001-04:00

As promised here are a few pics of the girls that evening. I usually like to take shots of everyone in action - inky fingers, stamps in hand. There was so much laughter and chatter going on that I was easily distracted!

Helen proudly showing off one of her awesome cards.

My gal pal Heather from work.

Jen - we were on the Scrapalicious Design Team.
We've been scrappy pals ever since.

Carolyn, Jane and Ruby...smiling pretty.

It was a fun night and I hope to do it again real soon.

More Helen P. Cards

2008-03-14T16:48:00.000-04:00

Here are a couple more cards from Helen's workshop.

I took some photos of the girls too but I'll post them later.

Again, all supplies are Stampin' Up.

Helen P. workshop cards

2008-03-12T06:52:00.000-04:00

I recently was a guest at a Stampin' Up workshop at Helen P.'s house. It was lots of fun and laughs and full of adventure - namely because of the massive snow storm that hit the city that day. We still got there earlyish and were taught the following cute cards.

Helen is really talented - I'm so proud of her!!

All products are Stampin' Up of course...

Wish Card.jpg

2008-02-26T15:47:00.002-05:00

This is one of the cards designed for my brand new Silhouette class at Scrapalicious.

I just recently purchased the electronic die cutter and I just adore it. PLUS now that I've learned how to cut directly from Adobe Illustrator I love it even more!!! Just think - I can cut anything I can draw out!

Here is the first card - uses a downloads that come with the machine software and American Crafts Metropolitan paper...

Love you bobble card

2008-02-16T13:29:00.002-05:00

Love you bobble card
Originally uploaded by Mary's Creative Zone

I made this little card for the Secret Scrapper card challenge - not realizing that it is a weekly challenge - doh!

I thought I would share it with you anyway....

The challenge was to make a card using polka dots, ribbon, heart, brad and a punch.

Happy Valentines Day

2008-02-14T21:01:00.002-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day Everyone!

Love You Card - Ready Set Create

2008-02-02T16:03:00.000-05:00

My first publication is out!

Yippee - I'm in the Feb/March issue of Ready Set Create!
Go check it out - I'm on Page 18.

PLUS - I've been picked up for 2 more issues so stay tuned!

crazy class

2008-01-26T06:54:00.000-05:00

I teach today - Stamping 201 - and participating in the class today will be these 2 wild scrappers by the name of Maria and Brea. I know these girls because they've taken my 2 other classes before and that brings me back to my post earlier about the differences in class atmosphere.

First class was totally quiet - no one asked questions or said anything. Well, this past Wednesday was the exact opposite. There was laughter, lots of questions and a lot more energy. Good energy is infectious and that's what happened. Time flew by and everyone enjoyed themselves.

Well, I know Maria and Brea and I know that today - will be tiring - not from lack of energy - more like TOO much energy!! Those girls are crazy and a lot of fun....I think I may have to separate them so that they don't cause too much trouble.

XOXO glitter.jpg

2008-01-20T17:00:00.001-05:00

I've been participating in a lot of challenges lately in an effort to keep up with my crafting and in an effort to get inspired.

Here is a card created for a glitter alpha challenge...

This uses paper from Stampin' Up and American Crafts - metropolitan karaoke. I can't remember where the xoxo came from but it is cut from pattern paper and then glittered.

Class last night

2008-01-17T20:49:00.000-05:00

Well, I taught my first card class of the year at Scrapalicious last night and it was good.

It was Stamping 201 and I had 4 ladies in the class.

It's always interesting when you are teaching because people are so different - and I mean this in a good way. Not everyone knows each other and honestly I know no one because I'm pretty new there too but some classes are loud and rambunctious and hard to control and some are super quiet and reserved.

Well, last night was a super quiet class! Hardly anyone said anything or asked any questions - and the store was sooo quiet.

So this is what's going through my mind the entire 2 hours as I'm teaching.... man, either they are concentrating so intently OR they hate me OR maybe they hate the cards....man, why is it so quiet - you can hear a pin drop....no they probably hate me....oh man, yeah - they hate me....I know it....they hate me.

I know it sounds crazy (and it is!) but if you know me - you know how I am. Self doubt is my middle name - and I hate it when it is quiet!

Well, when the class was all over I felt so much better and relieved because they all inquired about the next class and a couple signed up for the Stamping 101 class just to make more cards.

Whew - what a relief....that's when I felt like Sally Field when she won that Oscar for Norma Rae...

You like me - you really like me!!

If you are in town - check out the store and maybe grab a class with me - but please, please say something in the class - for my mind's sake!!

I'm getting PUBBED

2008-01-08T04:23:00.000-05:00

Happy Dance # 2 - 2008 is off to a good start.

(if you haven't already check out my Happy Dance #1 on the main Zone page)

I'm being pubbed - my first time - one of my cards and a matching tag - yippee!

It is for an e-zine called Ready, Set, Create and will be available for download Feb 1st.

Stay tuned for more details.

Christmas cards from friends

2007-12-26T11:40:00.000-05:00

For this holiday edition of the Card Zone I thought I would post some photos of the cards that I had received from my friends... so here goes (in alpha order). I only sent out a few cards this year due to lack of time and complications. I have a ton made but they didn't get sent - but at least next year I will ahead of the game.

This first card is by Angie Robertson - super cute snowmen eh?

This card is by Helen P - LOTS of layers on this one

This card is by Jennifer Roach - I just love the "vintage" look

This card is by Kim Humphreys - very "country" feel which is perfect because Kim is originally from rural Pennsylvania.

I hope you all are enjoying your holidays!

Mandy Miller2.jpg

2007-12-02T14:32:00.001-05:00

This card is well.....awesome!

Designed by Mandy Miller of www.secretscrapper.com

I love the distressing and the little faux pocket.

So cute!

heart resist

2007-11-29T16:16:00.001-05:00

This another one of the Stamping 201 cards.

This one is a resist technique.

Stamp the back with versamark, emboss with clear emboss or white emboss and then pounce with a sponge and another colour of ink.

Wipe off the excess and the embossed portion will "resist" the ink.

Flower

2007-11-27T19:39:00.000-05:00

I just love this paper - it is simply gorgeous and mod. The problem I had was doing something that complemented it.

The trick with this card is that it opens in the middle. You untie the bow and open it up. The scalloped circle is cut using the Marvy Giga punch and it is adhered on 1 side only.

Cherish

2007-11-24T12:24:00.000-05:00

This is a card for the Stamping 101 Class.

I love the purple with the white and black.

Also, I love the bling - Stickles are my all time favorite way of applying glitter.

Believe Emboss

2007-11-22T18:28:00.000-05:00

Another Card for Stamping 201 Classes...

This one uses only Fancy Pants "In the Garden" Stamps. BUT features embossing.

Love Marker

2007-11-18T19:43:00.001-05:00

I haven't been posting lately purely because I've been busy stamping and there isn't enough time to take the photos....

Lots more cards to come with Christmas fast approaching so stay tuned.

In the mean time here is a card for the "Stamping 201 Classes" I'm teaching over at Scrapalicious.

This card showcases a direct to rubber marker technique. The glitter is done with Stickles and the paper is American Crafts. The stamps are Fancy Pants and Sunshine Designs.

I'll be at Scrapalicious November 24th and 27th. More dates should be announced shortly.

Yule tree

2007-11-07T14:23:00.001-05:00

Christmas Crafting has begun at my house and I'm madly rushing to design my own cards while at the same time - working on all my other stamping/scrapping activities.

Here is a sneak peak of 1 of the cards

(Hopefully those of you that end up receiving this card won't mind the sneak peak!!)

Mandy Miller1

2007-10-28T21:00:00.001-04:00

I haven't posted a card in a little while but I have a few in the works so hold on tight.

In the meantime, here is a card that I received from Mandy Miller of Secret Scrapper. It's just gorgeous with the pop of red to contrast the black and white. So simple and elegant.

(sorry for the photo - it's a little off kilter...)

teaching this weekend

2007-10-24T22:23:00.000-04:00

I'll be teaching Christmas Cards this weekend at Scrapalicious, at last count there were 5 registered but there may still be room.

If you are interested give them a call right away!!

Sadly, I've been busy with other things and have no time for crafting....hopefully this Sunday.

tis the season LRB.jpg

2007-10-13T08:53:00.001-04:00

Another card for the card class I'm teaching at Scrapalicious. Come on by for the class if you have the time. There is still availability at the October 27th class.

Happy Holiday Tree LRB.jpg

2007-10-05T07:32:00.001-04:00

Another card being taught at Scrapalicious....

I just love the simple trees - then you add the sparkly bling of the stickles and it turns this plain card into pizzazz.

Gotta love the bling!!

Seasons greetings LRB.jpg

2007-09-30T10:28:00.001-04:00

Christmas already??

Well if you are a card maker you know that you gotta start early to get all the cards made in time for December mailing.

Here is a card that I'm teaching at Scrapalicious on October 13. Not sure if there is still room for more participants, but give them a call or visit online and sign up if you want to attend. It's a beginner class so we will be covering the basics and it is sure to be fun.

We're using the brand new Autumn Leaves Acrylic stamps...and they are yummy.

I'll be showing more cards soon...

Helen thanks card

2007-09-14T08:10:00.000-04:00

Check out this cute card I received from Helen - my downline at Stampin' Up. It's a quick little Thank you card - it doesn't open or anything it's just this on the front and a blank back for whatever you want to write. What a super idea...and great to make up with scraps

Another little tip from Helen is that she keeps a photo box filled with quickie little thank you cards and birthday cards etc that she makes so that she always has stock on hand when she needs to send out a card. No rushing at the last minute to create - you just open the box and pull one out of the stash.

Thanks Helen!

Lisa Jahncke card

2007-09-11T21:15:00.000-04:00

I'm a member of Stampin' Up Canada - a yahoo group. As part of that group I'm in a 1-4-1 swap. How this works is that someone sends you a card and you send one back or vice versa.

Well take a look at this card I received in the mail from Lisa Jahncke of Nova Scotia. It is just lovely - the photo really doesn't do it justice because the white background is totally covered in glitter. (and you all know how I love the bling!!)

When I emailed Lisa to ask if I could post her card here on the zone...this was her reply.

You can but it’s not a true “original”. I get lots of inspiration from other people’s blogs and SCS. I can’t remember where so when you give credit you can make mention to something of that effect since I wouldn’t want to take full credit :)

There you go - a girl with class!

Thanks Lisa!

2 cards coming shortly...

2007-09-06T07:19:00.001-04:00

I have 2 cards to make - hopefully tonight...

A sympathy card - (hate making those)
A wedding card - (congrats J & M)

Stay tuned - I'll post them once they are done.

Oh yeah - I reminder! If you were planning on coming to the upcoming card workshop Sept 21st - please RSVP ASAP - I have people booked already and because I only have room for 10 I don't want to have to turn people away.

Fold over birthday hugs.jpg

2007-08-31T23:09:00.000-04:00

Here's the last sneak peak card that will be taught at the September Card Workshop.

All supplies are from Stampin' Up.

Stamps: Lace, Hugs & Wishes, Baroque Motifs
Ink: Versamark, Sage Shadow, Handsome Hunter
Paper: Mellow Moss, So Saffron

There is a trick to this card as well...
(I gotta keep you interested don't I)

First there is the cute scalloped edge. Then the So saffron portion is actually attached to a flap.. So how you open the card is you untie the bow - flip open the flap then.....surprise....there is something inside.

After the class I'll edit this post and tell you what the surprise is.

From the Heart

2007-08-28T14:00:00.000-04:00

Another card from the upcoming card workshop in September.

All supplies are from Stampin' Up.

Stamp Sets: Baroque Motifs, Hugs & Wishes (both brand new to the catalog and fast becoming my favorites)

Paper: Ballet Blue Textured card stock, Bashful Blue, Whisper White

Ink: Bashful Blue, Night of Navy

Ribbon: Night of Navy

Now...here is the teaser....there is a surprise when you open the card - but you have to take the class to find out what it is!!

Warm wishes card

2007-08-26T20:15:00.001-04:00

I know it's been a while since I've posted any cards... but I hope you'll forgive me now that I have a few cards ready and waiting for you.

This card was designed for a card workshop I'm teaching in September 2007. I know I don't usually show the cards on the blog until after the class happens - but then I started thinking.....why not?? This way, it might entice you to want to attend!!

All supplies are from Stampin' Up.

This card uses the fabulous new hostess level 2 set Garden Silhouettes, Hugs & Wishes stamp sets. Also brand new to the catalog this year is Textured card stock - I love love love this stuff!!

Colours used are Cameo Coral and So Saffron.

more cards soon...

2007-08-11T05:57:00.000-04:00

I've had a request for some thank you cards so there should be more action in the card zone soon...stay tuned

stripe so very cute

2007-08-11T05:56:00.000-04:00

A quickie card using slab scrapbook paper and Stampin' Up's So Very stamps.

Ink is versamark for the so very and the cute was stamped using elegant eggplant.

After a long hiatus...

2007-08-06T16:33:00.001-04:00

What can I say - I've been working on other things and the whole card thing fell by the way side.

My sincerest apologies...

Here is a sweet card IMO - I love the green and pink contrast.

Enjoy.

No cards today....

2007-06-15T21:48:00.000-04:00

What do you think - that I'm a machine!!
(just kidding)

Nothing to add to the card zone - you're going to have to settle for the posts on the creative zone and the scrap zone for the moment.

I'll probably upload a new card next week.

Thanks for checking in though!

XOXO.jpg

2007-06-11T20:16:00.001-04:00

This is a cute card designed by Angie Robertson for her DH.

Super sweet don't you think?

Angie loves the earth tones and paper crafts pretty much exclusively in those tones...It works for her.

Sweet Chip.jpg

2007-06-07T11:52:00.000-04:00

This is a card from the latest chipboard class.

All supplies are Stampin' Up

Cardstock - Confetti White and Pink Passion
Stamps- Seeing Spots and the "sweet" is from a sellabration set whose name escapes me at the moment.
Ink - Pink Passion

Cherish Chip.jpg

2007-06-05T15:47:00.000-04:00

This is a variation on the Many Thanks card...

Again, a very simple straight forward card.

All supplies are Stampin' Up

Cardstock - Mellow Moss and Confetti white on the tag
Delight in Life scrap paper
Stamps- Delight in Life, Warm Words
Ink- Versamark, So Saffron and Mellow Moss

Thanks Chip.jpg

2007-06-02T08:57:00.001-04:00

This is a card from the latest chipboard class.

It's a simple card - but that's the point.

All supplies are Stampin' Up

Card stock - Mellow Moss and Confetti white on the tag
Delight in Life scrap paper
Stamps- Delight in Life
Ink-Versamark, So Saffron and Mellow Moss

Many thanks for visiting!

Pink Purse.jpg

2007-05-22T22:26:00.000-04:00

I love this card - really really do.

This is designed by Helen and it is gorgeous.

The pink and brown combo are just right and now that I see this stamp set in use I totally want to buy it.

All stamps are by Stampin' Up!

Happy Bloom.jpg

2007-05-15T16:30:00.000-04:00

Another card by Helen

- I love the use of the double mat for the image - the green was a last minute choice to pop everything out of the pink and it really works.

So pretty....

Find Joy1.jpg

2007-05-11T18:00:00.000-04:00

Card designed by my downline at Stampin' Up Helen.

I just love the colours in this card - very Art Nouveau in style and colour choice

How do you get the little corner notches??

Well, you cut the card stock with square edges and you use the Stampin' Up Slit punch and cut off the corners. Super easy and the best little gadget for only $6.95!!

Well done Helen!

Over the next little while I'll be showing alot of Helen cards so stay tuned.

Angies work.jpg

2007-05-08T13:03:00.001-04:00

Here are the projects that my gal pal Angie worked on at Scrapfest/Stampfest on May 5th, 2007. Angie completed 12 cards during the day. (Amanda beat her by 2 cards not that there was a competition or anything.

Angie's cards are all different - and she really started flying in the end when she started doing "One Sheet Wonder" cards.

What's a One Sheet Wonder?

Well you take 1 piece of card stock (in this case Confetti White) and you stamp a pattern all over it. Then you take that piece of card stock and you just start trimming it into different size pieces. It's pretty free form that way. Then you start placing and assembling.

I really productive day had by all.

Amandas work.jpg

2007-05-08T12:59:00.001-04:00

Here are the projects that sweet Amanda worked on at Scrapfest/Stampfest May 5, 2007.

She had quite a few cards completed by the end of the day - I think the count was 14 mind you she worked assembly line style on 3 different designs.

Cuttlebug Thanks.jpg

2007-04-30T22:00:00.001-04:00

A card using a Cuttlebug embossing folder as the background - easy peasy eh?

This is from the last BIO night class.

The long awaited instructions for Nancy card folder will be posted shortly - I'm having a few computer issues at the moment and that is delaying the process.

Stay tuned...

So very loved

2007-04-14T09:50:00.000-04:00

Another Card from BIO Night 5s shoebox swap. This one designed by Nancy.

What's cute about this card is the fact that the purple layer was punched and then elevated with pop dots - the 3d effect is really nice and adds a lot to this card. The distressing adds the right amount of texture.

The original design was portrait but we didn't like that when you read it it said "loved so very" - an easy solution was to turn the card to a landscape version and you get - "so very loved".

Perfect!

Card stock is Michaels
Stamps are Stampin' Up! - "So Very" and "Springtime Stems"
Inks are Stampin' Up! - So Saffron, Elegant Eggplant

Card Portfolio Inside

2007-04-10T13:56:00.000-04:00

Here is the inside view of the Card Portfolio.

The concept is that you can put envelopes on one side and the cards on the other side. Or if this was taught at a total hands on workshop - the participants can tuck there cards in here for safe passage home. This would also make a great hostess gift if you were invited for dinner somewhere - just fill it with assorted cards.

Super cute idea eh?

I had a thought that if you wanted to save ribbon - you could put the eyelets only on the outside edge instead of the inside fold. BUT then I would make sure to secure the eyelet through the flap as well - so that there are pockets instead of flaps.

I'm such a tease - but you have to come back later in the week and I'll have directions and detailed photos on how to make this card portfolio.

Card Portfolio

2007-04-03T11:12:00.000-04:00

This is a Card Portfolio from Bio Night 5's shoe box swap and is such an amazing item to make.

I can't take credit for this design, I wish I could...it was designed by super talented Nancy - aka Queen of Scrap. If you are a follower of Mary's Creative Zone you know all about Nancy. She's awesome and the one that got me started in this adventure of scrapping/stamping (so yes DH she's the reason why I'm in the dungeon of a studio all the time instead of with you...).

Anyway, I wanted to post this right away so I didn't get a chance to colour in the image the way I would like - but you get the gist.

I'll post directions with detailed photos later in the week (I gotta keep you coming back for more don't I??)

1-4-1 Card - Heather Fritzke

2007-03-27T22:46:00.001-04:00

This sweet card is designed by Heather Fritzke. Heather is one of the leaders of the awesome Yahoo group Stampin' Up Canada.

I've been a member of this group for a little while now and through it I've learned tons....so many great artists there, ready to answer any question you may have no matter how big or small.

Well, I am signed on for this 1-4-1 Swap there and how it works is that you pick a name from the list and send 1 card - then that person sends you back one. Simple eh?

What happened here is that I'm going down the list in alpha order and I'm on "F" so I just picked Heather's name - not realizing who she was - and away it went...next thing you know, she posts my card on the main web page to the group (so embarassing but deeply honored [blush]). To be honest with you - if I had known I would've sent a better card. And this is the return card...

Don't you just love it!

craft critique - glue

2007-03-26T12:39:00.000-04:00

I'll upload some new pics later this week but I just wanted to send you over to

www.craftcritque.com

There are some awesome reviews over there - right now there is a whole review on glue.

We all need glue right? Find out which one to use for what, what's the most cost effective, what's the stickiest....

Turquoise Birthday

2007-03-20T15:25:00.000-04:00

This is a card designed by Dale Anne.

I Love the black and white with the punch of turquoise!! The splash of colour is just wonderful.

All supplies are Stampin' Up.

An interesting story how Dale Anne and I got to know each other....well I "see" her all the time on www.splitcoaststampers but I also "see" her on the yahoo stamping group that we both belong to. If I recall, she answered a question I had posted, I went and visited her blog and commented on one of her cards. The next thing you know we've been emailing, snail mailing and "visiting" each other ever since.... and there you have it. This stamping/scrapping community is just like that.... and I'm glad to be a part of it.

Thanks for sending me the cards to post!!

FInd Joy in the Little Things

2007-03-15T07:48:00.000-04:00

This is last card from Heather and Connie's workshops.

This uses super cutie stamp set called Polka Dot and Paisleys... It is from the current Spring Mini Catalog from Stampin' Up. AND nicely enough all current demonstrators with Stampin' Up received this set for free as a Christmas present - pretty cool eh??

All supplies are Stampin' Up.

Card Stock is Ballet Blue, Bashful Blue and Whisper White
Ink is Versamark, Bashful Blue and Night of Navy.

The matt is distressed lightly on the edges with the Bashful Blue.

This is a mini card - you can get 3 our of an 8.5 x 11 sheet if you divide it into 3 equal pieces.

The trick with the card is the use of the slit punch. I slit punch the card stock on the right and then I tuck the other end in and then crease using the bone folder - this way it is the perfect width and the left side tucks neatly into the slit punch on the right. It never works for me if I fold first and then slit punch....BUT maybe it's just me, I don't know.

Seeing Spots Thank you

2007-03-10T08:15:00.000-05:00

This is a super easy card - again from Heather and Connie's workshops. Easy because the Scrap book paper adds a quick detail. And the use of punches makes it even quicker.

All supplies are Stampin' Up.

Stamp Set - Seeing Spots
Card Stock - Lavender Lace, Elegant Eggplant, Whisper White and Apricot Appeal
Ink - Versamark, Elegant Eggplant
Ribbon - Elegant Eggplant

The one special thing about this card is the flower. This was created with the Spring Bouquet Flower punch from Stampin' Up. I love it because it punches out 3 different flower styles at once. The punch also coordinates with the Looks Like Spring Stamp Set and the Spring Showers Designer Series Paper. So if you really love it - you can get all 3 things and you will be totally matchie poo. Which isn't a bad thing if you ask me.

So Very Sweet

2007-03-07T12:20:00.000-05:00

This is a baby card from Heather and Connie's workshop....and it's so very sweet.

All Stamps, Card Stock and Ink are from Stampin' Up

The babies are from the Baby Time Stampin' Around roller and they were just cut out with the square punch and matted. The So very Sweet is from the Sellabration set So Very. Ink is Basic Black.

Card stock used is Certainly Celery, Apricot Appeal, Whisper White and Elegant Eggplant.

Can you say WAAAHHH....

Happy Together

2007-03-05T21:28:00.001-05:00

Heather's workshop on Friday was lots of fun - especially because Heather made these yummy brownies with extra fudge in them - Stamping with friends on a Friday night and yummy brownies what more can you ask for?

Over the next week or so I'll be posting the cards that were taught at both Heather and Connie's recent workshops.

The first one here is a wedding card. I call this the famous Brad and Angelina card - coined by Jen at Connie's workshop because of the 2 brads next to the word "together" - too funny.

Card Stock - Confetti White, Sage Shadow, Blush Blossom & Whisper White from Stampin' Up
Stamp Set - Happy Everything and a leaf background set from a Sellabration Set (I can't remember the name of it) from Stampin' Up
Ink - Versamark (for the leaf pattern) Handsome Hunter from Stampin' Up.

Enjoy!

Amanda Card

2007-02-21T12:14:00.001-05:00

This is the final card from Helen's Shoebox swap.

This card was designed by Amanda, Helen's daughter and is super cute. Amanda is a huge fan of the colour combo of brown and pink

The stamp set is from Stampin' Up (of course) and is called Fun Filled. This is a 2 step stamping set - meaning that the gift boxes were stamped with one stamp for the "fill" and one stamp for the "outline". The card stock is Regal Rose, Chocolate Chip and Vanilla. And the ink colours are Regal Rose, Chocolate Chip and Creamy Caramel.

Now if you have the 2005-2006 Idea Book and Catalog you will see that Amanda used the card design pictured there on Page 64 and altered it to suit her needs. She used it as a guide and changed a few things around. That's why the Idea Book and Catalog is so fab. - great for inspiration.

Amanda is super talented - just like her mom!

Angie E card

2007-02-17T08:35:00.001-05:00

This is a card designed by Angie E. that was demonstrated at Helen's Shoebox Swap.

The one thing that I would say is that she needs to buy some square punches on her next order with Stampin' Up because that would make the creation of this card so much faster to prepare and make.

The stamps and ink used are all from Stampin' Up
- Background Basics
- Tags and More
- Bravo Burgandy
- Night of Navy

The card stock is unknown.

Angie E. is a fairly new stamper but this is a really cute card and she should be very proud of it - well done!!

Happy Bird-day

2007-02-10T11:09:00.001-05:00

Was out at Helen's house last night for a stampin' party - she's my downline at Stampin' Up which means that I'm her boss (just kidding) - it means that I recruited her and started her stamping addiction (sorry Walter).

She had planned a shoe box swap which I believe I gave the details for in an earlier thread (see Jan 30th).

Anyway - there were 5 of us in total and we had a grand time stamping and chatting - we had so much fun that I didn't get home untill 1 am - yeah...I know....we stampers party hard!

So over the next few days I plan on sharing the cards that we made.

This card uses the Stampin' Up set "Love ya Bunches" - ain't it cute. The camera is throwing off the colours a bit but the card stock is bashful blue and apricot appeal from the soft subtles colour palate.

The one technique that Helen did - that I am totally going to CASE (copy and share everyone) is the bashful blue card stock piece. All we did is randomly punched 2 different sized hole punches into the card stock. It's super simple, effective and genius - I say genius. I'm sucking because I didn't think of it myself!! HAHA

Helen - you are doing an awesome job and I'm so proud of you!

Enjoy!

Black and White - Colour Punch...literally

2007-02-05T18:30:00.001-05:00

Originally uploaded by Mary's Creative Zone.

Here is my latest creation - I'm demoing it at Helen's Shoebox Swap this Friday - so if you are going to be there.....here's a sneak peak.

I recently received some new scrapbook mags and as I was quickly flipping through (because you all know that i don't have time to read anymore) I saw some awesome black and white scrap paper. (It's the latest thing ya' know). Well - I was inspired but to be honest with you.... it needed something.

Now what....WELL I remembered seeing a "Call to Swap" on the Stampin' Up Canada forum that I belong to for a Black and White with Colour Punch Swap.....So PUNCH I did and out came my circle punches and there you go. It's cute IMHO.

The white ink is craft ink and is AWESOME - super white and crisp - the one thing is that because it is craft (and thus pigment based) it takes longer to dry. Another reason to have an embossing gun right? Just shoot some heat on it and away you go.

ALSO - Thanks to Dale Anne there is some glitter nail polish on the ribbon and the heart - worked well and you know how I L-O-V-E the glitter - unfortunately it doesn't show up nice in the photo but in person it sure is purrrrty.

As an aside - I haven't been too good at letting you know what stamp sets/paper and ink I've been using so from now on I'll try to keep you better informed.

Card Stock: Whisper White, Basic Black, Real Red
Stamps: Stampin' Up French Script and Heart from Mini Messages (retired)
Ink: Whisper White (Craft), Real Red

stampers versalog

2007-01-30T15:00:00.000-05:00

I feel like I've been neglecting my cards but it's just that I can't post any new pictures for fear that it will spoil it for people at my next workshop.

BUT - I do have something...

I stumbled upon this:

Stampers Versalog

If you are ever stuck for what to write on the inside of a card...visit this site. You'll never be at a loss for words again.

Oh yeah - I did get invited to a swap with a twist at my downline Helen's house next week....there will be 6 of us and we will each design/prepare card stock etc for 1 card. Then demo/instruct and make each card. A novel idea because I only have to prep 1 card design but I get to make 5 different cards. I can't wait!!

Yippee - New Stamps

2007-01-27T08:15:00.000-05:00

Yippee - my new stamps have arrived. Hubby asked me what I wanted for Valentine's Day and I said "please sir can I have some more rubber stamps???" and he said YES!!! SO I spent over $200 on "Toys for Mary!!"

What's he getting?? Hours alone in front of the TV to watch football or whatever he wants while I'm in my dungeon stamping of course.

So, if I get chance to play this weekend I'll post something new. I'm holding off posting my other cards because I don't want to spoil it for Connie and Heather's workshops...

Hold tight...

(shh....I bought new punches too!! [insert evil laugh here])

Connie Card1.JPG

2007-01-21T08:36:00.001-05:00

This is a sneak peak to a card that will be demonstrated at Connie and Heather's workshop - it uses one of the freebie Sell-A-Bration Sets..

There is some glitter on the flowers - because - well, you know how I L-O-V-E the glitter...

This card was done totally using the Stampin' Up markers - love this technique when you don't have the stamp pad.

Another thing that the photo doesn't show too clearly is that the flowers uses 2 shades of pink...

Enjoy!!

It's been awhile...

2007-01-14T14:23:00.000-05:00

It's been awhile and it's just because I have had no time...but today is the new beginning.

I don't usually make resolutions for the new year (because I never keep them!) but I will attempt to try and update weekly and create something new weekly.

I have a few workshops set up for January and February so there will be some new designs and items to post shortly. I also have some new cutie stamp sets to play with - alot are the new Sell-a-Bration sets from Stampin' Up so I'm excited to get to use them. As I said, I have had no time and the set that I received as a Christmas gift from Stampin' Up is still uncut and unmounted - I know, I'm just that busy!!

In the meantime - there are new posts on the Scrap Zone and the main page - Mary's Creative Zone.

Later....

Cards for Sophia

2006-12-14T08:55:00.000-05:00

So, more custom cards for people...this one is for my good friend and pal Sophia (she's the bomb ya' know).

Anyway, here is a Christmas card using the holiday background and peace love set from Stampin' Up.

It's simple but I think it's cute. I love using non typical colours for Christmas cards the red and green all the time is a bit too average for my liking - not that there's anything wrong with that - it's just not me...

Christmas pink

2006-12-09T08:30:00.000-05:00

Same scrapbook paper as the teal version but this one is pink...

I love the little addition of the ribbon and the bow - that's what makes this card.

Also I versamarked a circular pattern on the base card to compliment the circles on the scrapbook paper.

Again - Michael's $ bin stamp - the pink rubber is black now but oh well, you get what you pay for.

Christmas teal

2006-12-03T20:49:00.000-05:00

Another Christmas card...

The scan is a bit blurry because the "Happy holidays" is on pop dots and threw off the scanner...

I love the colour combo here and it is pulled from the scrapbook paper

It's hard to see but I've added some stickles on the ornament.

Stickles - always adds that little something (wink!)

I've also used Michaels $ bin stamps - I loved the design but the rubber stains like crazy and you have to watch the edges etc.

Another christmas card - Merry Tree

2006-12-01T18:39:00.000-05:00

Well, my whole goal to upload a card a day did not happen. I ended up getting more orders than I could handle what with classes and my own Christmas preparations. Oh well - better late than never...

This card uses Merry and Solemn Stillness stamps from Stampin Up, scrapbook paper and stickles...

Xmas Cards have begun - Hat & gloves

2006-11-19T15:34:00.000-05:00

Well, it's late November and I've been busy designing my Christmas cards - I have 2 weeks to make and send them....so the rush is on.

You all know that I've been using alot of scrap paper these days to make my cards - I'm lovin' it. It really does make life easy because it provides a great "base" for the design. So over the next few posts I'll be showing you the various cards that I've made using all the fabulous designs of Scrap paper out there.

When I saw this argyle pattern I instantly thought of a sweater. I versamarked some snowflakes on the background stock, added some embroidery thread for the mitts and the hat is stuck on using 3D foam to give it some "height" - cute eh?

Thanks card ver2

2006-11-11T05:09:00.000-05:00

This is a green version of the last batch of thank you cards. It uses the same Basic Grey scrapbook paper that was used on the pink thank you cards I posted last week.

On the background card I used a versamark pad and star stamp but then I wanted more distressing so I just took my versamark pad and pressed it on the card stock in a random pattern - that's how the squares are made. I distressed each layer separately and assembled.

Simple but I think they look pretty good...

BIO Night 4

2006-11-05T11:43:00.000-05:00

Friday Night was BIO Night #4 Technique Class and we did 4 techniques....why you may ask?? Well the paint chip card was so super fast that I thought I'd throw in one that the girls in attendance had missed out on previously.

So here is the "Smacking Acetate" card

- take a piece of acetate scribble all over it with markers - mist it with water and shmoosh your card stock over top - let it dry and now you have a great background...

Here is the "Dry Embossing with Stamps" card.

There is a new trend to simpler cards - when I say simpler I mean no layers... I was trying to go that route with this. Not sure if you can see the detail but the leaves are embossed (so puffy looking) and the flowers have glitter on them.

- Stamp your image on the front side and then outline the image using your embossing stylus tool, Flip the card stock over and "colour in" with the stylus tool what you've just outlined being careful not to puncture the paper. Keep working it until you get the effect that you like. It helps to work over top of a mouse pad or something that has give.

To close this update I just wanted to show you how 4 people using a similar example, technique and supplies end up with different cards. That's what I love about teaching classes - I love it when I demo something and everyone does their own thing and changes it up.

Unfrogettable & Pink Thanks

2006-10-29T20:09:00.000-05:00

These are thank you cards that I made today...I was inspired and whipped up a whole bunch.

In a effort to become more whimsical in my card making I went against my usual and bought this set - Unfrogettable. Everyone on the various Stampin' Up boards were raving about it and I thought why not - Especially after I found this fabulous froggie scrap paper (I believe it is from Basic Grey but I could be wrong).

Cute eh??

To be honest with you, these 2 cards came together really fast because I used scrapbook paper as a basis to choose my colours and stamps from.
Real fun...

This card uses, again I believe it to be Basic Grey scrapbook paper and Lexicon of Love stamps from Stampin' Up. When I saw this paper I thought - distressed... this has gotta be distressed. So I picked up my stamp pads and went crazy. I think it adds some dimension to the card. Not sure you can tell by the scan but the pink base card has stars and "thank you" versamarked on it - to add another layer.

On both cards the frog and the thanks are stuck on the bases with dimensions to make it more 3D.

Well, I need to make more cards...so stay tuned....

Thanks - quilt card

2006-10-28T08:30:00.000-04:00

This was a quickie card that I did - it's a pity the faux (I love that Mr T.!) quilt card. I don't know if I love it. Mind you I don't hate it, I just think that it needs something.

But what????

Any opinions on how I can give this card more WOW appeal??? let me know...

Do you ever get that uninspired feeling??

I do. I think it's because I'm in front of a computer designing all day then I get home and I'm all blah blah blah - all my creative juices have been sucked dry at the office.

I say it again, I need to quit my day job and work more on my fun night job...but then again - how would I be able to afford my stamps???

Mary

Nancy's Christmas workshop

2006-10-17T21:01:00.000-04:00

My apologies because I've been concentrating on the other pages.

Here are 3 of the 5 items that were taught at a Christmas theme workshop. It was mostly a beginners class but the ladies were all pros by the end of the evening. We completed 2 tags and 3 cards.

The workshop was on Friday evening and we had a blast. It was at Nancy's house and because it was a Christmas theme she played the Celine Dion Xmas album. Also because it was a coolish night up North (we were in Brampton!! Ha Ha) she had a roaring fire going on. We even had some "caroling" if you can call it that - whenever you get Angie and Antonella together they always start singing (I really must remember to separate those 2 girls ...)

I do have a lot of stamping to do complete - I need to start my Christmas cards, I have a 1-4-1 card swap I need to work on and I promised the girls in my BIO night tech class that I would make "name cards" for their rings so that they don't get their rings mixed up. Always busy!!

I really should quit my day job so that I have time for my fun night job!!

Tech Class #3 cards etc.

2006-08-19T10:39:00.000-04:00

Lots New....

I've added a link on the side bar to my favorite stock photo site - for all those budding designers out there. It is good in that there are alot of high quality images here at a great price!!..Love it.

NEW card classes and club information is found on the home page (see the link in the side bar to Home - Mary's Creative Zone).

Last nights by invitation only technique class was a hoot - lots of eating, yaking, laughing and learning! I'm really enjoying these monthly classes with my girls...here are 2 of the cards we did last night.

Here's a shout out to Nancy - one of the ladies from BIO night - she loves coming here just to see her name!!

- "From the Heart" card showcases the emboss resist technique.

- "Warmest Wishes" card showcases the retiform/grid technique. I love the funky cord by the way!..

Friend Card

2006-07-23T10:14:00.000-04:00

Hi all...

I haven't updated in a while because I've been b.u.s.y..... I wish I can say that I was at convention but no....just swamped and lazy. Anyway, here is another card from the latest tech class showing faux layering, distressing and faux stitching (Everytime I demo a faux technique I feel like saying "I pity the faux" a la Mr T. LOL

Next tech class will be on August 18.

Camping Card

2006-06-18T08:13:00.000-04:00

This is a card I designed for my first swap - it uses the Great Outdoors wheel.

Angie's Love Bookmark

2006-06-14T20:56:00.000-04:00

This is a double sided bookmark designed by Angie Robertson.

Tech 1 Rose Card

2006-06-08T08:24:00.000-04:00

These are cards from my first BIO Night Technique Class.
BIO stands for "By Invitation Only".

This one showcases the faux linen technique.

Tech 1 My Friend Card

2006-06-08T00:32:00.000-04:00

This is another card from BIO Night, showcasing the KISS technique.