Tuesday, December 30, 2014

Sew, Sometimes I Craft Without (#18) . . .



paper . . . and I've done that by sewing this18" doll Too Cute to be Ugly Sweater for May from a pattern by Matilda's Closet available for purchase @ Pixie Faire!  I used pale pink fleece for the sweater and brown fleece for my gingerbread girl.  Her dress and trim are made of felt and the tiny bow from narrow ribbon.

The pattern is easy and goes together quickly, once you've decided whether you want to use a snowman, Santa or gingerbread boy (or girl)!  The pattern includes all the pieces needed to make whichever you wish -- or all three/four. I may just have to make my 18" Gotz Henry (May's twin) a gingerbread boy sweater too?!

If you're able to finish one prior to midnight (MST) December 31st, you can enter yours here on Facebook for a chance to win a $25 Pixie Faire Gift Card -- who wouldn't want to win???!!!  ;)

Saturday, November 22, 2014

My Sheri Crafts Challenge #147: Oh Christmas Tree

For our final challenge before taking a holiday break, we're asking you to create a Christmas card which MUST include a tree!


In my never-ending attempts to create pretty, but simple-to-mail cards for the holiday that are Post Office friendly, I created a card for this challenge! You see, most of my cards make my husband fret and worry that they'll never arrive or instead arrive in a plastic bag containing torn shreds of a formerly lovingly hand-made, signed and addressed personal card -- because that's happened once or twice. One dear friend saved his lovingly handmade birthday card and brought it from several states away to share w/us on a trip to AZ -- all contained in a plastic bag after being painstakingly put back together as best his wife could so that they could even begin to tell what it had possibly once actually looked like -- LOL!!!

Sooo, today's clean and simple card is one of those basically flat, unobstructed and easy-to-mail cards that my Hubby prefers and will likely go to one of our children.  I used Rubber Stampede's
"Evergreen" from 2001 stamped in Papertrey Ink's Ripe Avacado.  After first coloring just the trunk with a Tombow Mocha marker, I used a stamp positioner to stamp it onto my oval die cut. Then I inked it up in green and stamped again, following that with gold Stickles.  A piece of ribbon from Target's $1 bin ties through my Spellbinders' Grommet Tag, which I stamped with Papertrey Ink's Painted Poinsettias stamp set.

Sooo, create your very own simple or not-so-simple Christmas tree card and join in @ My Sheri Crafts Challenge!  ;)

Saturday, November 8, 2014

My Sheri Crafts #146: It's Turkey Time


For today's new challenge, we're simply asking you to include a turkey.  I created my little turkey basically following directions I found here.
Using Spellbinders' Classic Inverted Circles, Large and Small, I die cut my felt 'feathers' in orange, green, brown & yellow felt, along with a circle in brown.  I layered them onto a cardboard circle and added a second cardboard circle 'sandwich ' using foam tape to attach my pipe cleaner legs (after coloring the white pipe cleaner brown).

Two pompoms in beige/brown were used for the head, yellow felt for the beak, red felt for the wattle and wiggly eyes complete his face and finish off this simple Thanksgiving Day decoration.  I think they'd be perfect for table place settings!

Looking forward to seeing your "Turkey Time" projects @ My Sheri Crafts soon!!!

Monday, October 27, 2014

Papertrey Ink: Painted Poinsettias in Neutral Shades

Just playing around today with my new PTI Painted Poinsettias and inks I recently purchased.  Wanted to take Nichole Heady's suggestion in the set's included 'tips' to try unconventional colors. Always a few on my list I know will appreciate non-traditional shades more than reds/greens.

I had neutral colors in mind, but added a hint of soft pink to my flower by embossing the stamp's petal layer in Desert Tapestry EP.  LOVE how it turned out!

From there I first stamped my sentiment in PTI's Classic Kraft ink, then VersaMark ink, offsetting it just a bit so when I heat embossed the Kraft would still show.  Like the effect that technique gave and how it ties in with my petals. My leaves were cut from PTI's Fine Linen CS and then the 'shading' inked in VersaMark and heat set. Next, the veins were stamped in Classic Kraft.

Finishing it off are a few Hero Arts sequins I've had forever (found when adding shelving in my craft closet) and a baker's twine bow from The Twinery.

I'm entering my card @ Christmas Card Challenges for Challenge #48 -- Anything Goes.

Saturday, October 25, 2014

Papertrey October Blog Hop Challenge

After a much too long hiatus from PTI's Blog Hop, I'm jumping back into the fun today with Painted Poinsettias paired with Holiday Double Cuts dies. Nichole had me @ poinsettia, but  when I saw these fabulous Double Cuts, I knew I had to place a much overdue order.  I seriously needed ink pads and it's pure bliss being surrounded by stacks of luscious colors today!

I finally settled on the 2nd color recipe of Pure Poppy, Raspberry Fizz, Hawaiian Shores and New Leaf.  After much deliberation, I actually worked in Hawaiian Shores in two areas -- can you tell what they are?

The leaf veins are pretty obvious, but my flowers' veins not so much!  To create the leaves without adding a non-palette color, I die cut the leaves from Vintage Cream CS, inked the whole leaf stamp in New Leaf, stamped off once, then huffed and stamped my BG.  Next I stamped just the vein using Hawaiian Shores -- I rather like them this way.

Gold or silver for the holidays is always nice, so I used Danielle Flanders' gold-dipped leaves from a recent MIM, gold on my flower center and gold paper for backing 'Merry'.  A sprinkle of red sequins finishes this holiday card.

It was an early-to-rise day @ our house, so not sure I can make it through the whole hop today, but I will soon, as I'm anxious to drink in all the inspiration I know awaits there!  ;)

My Sheri Crafts Challenge #145: Black Magic

Our newest challenge:  'Black Magic' requires we create a Halloween project -- simple & timely, huh?!!!  ;)

For my entry, I chose an altered book cover, as I wanted to do something other than a card.  Luckily, I stumbled upon Lindsey's Altered Halloween Books here and followed her directions -- sooo fun!!!

I also luckily found my RIP metal piece at the local 99-cent store, meant to be a necklace originally.  I removed the plastic chain and hot glued my grave marker down to the book cover.  My letters were some from many years ago in a pack of unfinished chipboard pieces, so I added those at top & bottom for my 'title' and two decorative pieces from cut from Spellbinders' Twisted Metal Tags and Accents to add to each side of my grave marker.

Once my Mod Podge had dried, I painted on Adirondack Pitch Black Acrylic Paint and once that dried used Viva Decor's Inka Gold to run over my pieces. The red eyes were part of the piece when purchased, so I simply scraped the paper towel away and left them there in all their gory 'glory' -- Hee!

My second book started out as an inexpensive journal with lightweight cardboard covers. I simply covered it first in a layer of paper towel and then painted & scrunched it up a bit. When dry, I added my spider web using hot glue, along with more letters mounted onto a Spellbinders' Resplendent Rectangles die. For this one, I kept it simple by adding Inka Gold in Graphite over the web, lettering and label edge.  A felt spider and a small silver moon finish it off.

Hope you'll create a Halloween project and join us this week for my spooky good fun @ My Sheri Crafts! ;)

Saturday, October 11, 2014

My Sheri Crafts Challenge #144: Autumn Abundance

My turn to choose the challenge at My Sheri Crafts this time around.  Now that it's finally fall (almost here in AZ too), I chose to focus on autumn, asking you to use Fall items seen in 'abundance':  leaves, acorns, fruits, pumpkins, gourds, etc.


I chose a bright striped fall BG paper from Bo Bunny's Apple Cider collection and ended up using some felt from my stash to cut my leaves and acorns using Spellbinders' dies.  Since I couldn't really emboss the felt very well I used a brown Sharpie to enhance the leaves veins.  My gem sentiment is one more from my stash that I grabbed @ Michaels years ago for a dime!  Gonna miss those great little word stickers when they're all gone -- sigh!  I backed it with a piece of burlap ribbon with gold thread and fringed the edges. Just a simple fall card that can be used for many occasions.

Hope you'll join us for this simple challenge @ My Sheri Crafts!

Wednesday, October 8, 2014

Sew, Sometimes I Craft Without (#17) . . .

. . . paper, using fabric instead.  So today I'm featuring some awesome dance/swim fabrics that I whipped up into the most adorable 'retro' swimsuits using Lee & Pearl's fabulous pattern sold here for instant download @ only $3.99!  Lee & Pearl have several great patterns and if you sign up for their free newsletter, you'll receive a free pattern.  Every so often in subsequent newsletters you'll get a free 'tweak' to one of their patterns that adds more unique ways to utilize a  purchased pattern -- really creative and FUN!
EDITED to add: Just read on Lee & Pearl's FB post that they'll be giving a different FREE pattern for newsletter sign-up beginning in Jan., 2015, which means: IF you sign up before then you'll receive Pattern #1051: Ballet Basics for 18" Dolls FREE before it makes way for the new pattern, and becomes part of their store inventory, BUT if you sign up before Jan., 2015, you'll receive the Ballet Basics pattern immediately PLUS their new free pattern in January -- how sweet is that?!  Hurry & sign up!

I just LOVE these suits and a retro high-waisted bikini is included in this same pattern which I still need to make. Either can be sewn with or without the ruffled back, of course, giving you lots of fun options for a small price! Know what I want to do with the bikini, but just been having TOO much pattern fun to get to it -- yet!

After I'd completed the yellow suit I actually found a wonderful fold-over elastic @ Hobby Lobby which is 5/8" on spools in their "Trims" aisle and is often half-price, a great deal @ $1.50 for 4 yards! In fact, I see it is 1/2 price today online, so may be also in store as it was when I purchased mine.

I found white with smaller dots (in both black & grey), which I think will look more in-scale for these 18" dolls.  They even have a chevron FOE and LOTS of solid colors. That's where I found the silver FOE on the blue suit and LOVE that it coordinates so well with the palm trees in the fabric and compliments that bright silver ruffle!

On a shopping trip to our SAS Tempe fabric outlet I found not only the blue fabric, but the black/white/grey plaid used as a ruffle on the yellow suit as well.  I've since come up with several ideas for utilizing it, including as a main swimsuit fabric and as a fold-over top on my yoga pants seen in this post!  Since I had to buy quite a large piece, but only for $5.99/yd., I'm thrilled I've found several ways to use it.  Also have quite a lot of the blue palm tree fabric, but it'll be more of a challenge to use up, I'm sure -- just couldn't resist it for our blue-eyed Kirsten doll!

Now I'm thinking I'll cut the front just a bit lower and then make Polynesian pareu's, large t'shirts, swim cover-ups, skirts for my non-ruffled suits!


Monday, October 6, 2014

Sew, Sometimes I Craft Without (#16) . . .

. . . paper and today I have a free, quick and ADORABLE little knit dress to show you that I downloaded from Jen @ Wren*Feathers' site! Stop by and check it out, plus her many fabulous patterns for sale @ her Etsy shop:  www.etsy.com/shop/jenwrenne.

I'd picked up this sweet little Rayon print knit for $1 @ Joann's a while back. It had been very poorly/crookedly cut, so it was only a small piece, but when I saw Jen's adorable dress, I just had to sew it!

It was sooo quick, easy and I was amazed that it fit  Molly, my older American Girl!  I simply cut the pattern exactly as drawn and used a 1/4" seam, but the rayon is so soft and silky and has 5% stretch, so that may be why?  Regardless, I just LOVE how cute it turned out.

I used a 2.0 double needle and added red stitching @ the neckline, sleeves and hem. I may have to make a red sweater or jacket to throw over this little gem for fall?!

Tuesday, September 30, 2014

Sew, Sometimes I Craft Without (#15) . . .

paper and this is another of those times.  I've sewn quite a few 18" doll clothing items over the summer and wanted to photograph them outside, but it was just too hot and/or humid during our summer monsoon to get that task completed.  Now that we're basking in cool temps (about 60 in the AM w/low to mid-90's for an afternoon high), I've been venturing into the backyard w/my doll friends for some photo sessions.

First up, we have May, a Gotz doll (Pottery Barn Kids), modeling her cute Sorrento Top. The Liberty Jane pattern is available @ Pixie Faire for $3.99 (instant PDF download) and includes different cute ways to finish the neckline besides the braided option. She's also wearing LJC's Yoga Pants as seen better in the photo below and available for $5.99 here bundled with basic pants/shorts in several variations. I love the fold-over waistline where you can play with fun fabrics or simply use one color!
Lastly, we have Journey Girl Meredith (ToysRUs) wearing LJC's Trendy T-Shirt made using a re-purposed knit top of mine that had a stain!  I hoped by centering the glittery palm tree I could get away with using it even though it's a bit large for an 18" doll -- what do you think, does it work OK or is it too much?  This free LJC pattern is available here and it's so easy/cute to stitch up!

FYI for you who sew: Pixie Faire includes many fabulous doll pattern makers and offers Freebie Friday every week, asking you to vote for your favorite 1 of 4 patterns each Wednesday-Thursday. Then the winning pattern is available free that Friday only! Both the Sorrento Top and Yoga Pants were Freebie Friday patterns earlier this summer. I seriously have a huge stash of patterns I've yet found time to sew up, thanks to Cinnamon's kind generosity!

I have a goal of finishing up several items that just need velcro, a snap, a hem, etc. and hope to get more photographed/posted in the near future, so stop back by!

Sunday, September 28, 2014

Sew, Sometimes I Craft Without (#14). . .

paper -- meaning I'm sewing instead.  I had the pleasure of testing a darling new jacket pattern just released today by Terrie @ http://www.alldolledup-dollclothes.com/patterns.html

Terrie's pattern is sooo adorable, I think, and only $3.50 for an instant PDF download!!!

I just love how this one in camel fine-wale corduroy turned out -- Felicity LOVES it too!  She's a Pleasant Company American Girl, purchased for my DD in 1991.  I took Terrie's suggestion on her pattern to use a 1/4" seam allowance.  She suggests using a 3/8" seam allowance for slimmer/newer Mattel American Girl dolls. I may just have to sew one in another fabric for my slim girl soon -- just too cute with that peplum back, don't you agree?!

If it's cold/windy, Felicity can also button up that top button until she gets back inside:

Now she's all set for Fall!  ;-) 

Thanks for visiting today -- please leave me a comment and go visit Terrie's site (linked right above my photos) for LOTS of great AG patterns -- you'll be glad you did!!!

Saturday, September 27, 2014

My Sheri Crafts Challenge #143: Buntings & Banners

Our latest challenge is up @ My Sheri Crafts today asking you to create any card/project featuring any style of buntings or banners -- really fun, I think!


I made a bright and colorful 'celebration' card that I'll likely use for an upcoming birthday.  For my base, I used a striped paper for my BG and small polka dot paper from Echo Park, which I die cut using Spellbinders' A2 Polka Dots.  My sentiment is from Just Rite's Celebrations 'Labels One and Bracket Borders One' and my banner was made using Just Rite's 'Buntings and Banners'.  A sprinkling of sequins sent to me from a dear friend finishes off this CAS card.

Anxiously looking forward to seeing your take on our latest challenge!  ')

Saturday, September 13, 2014

My Sheri Crafts Challenge #142: Birthday Celebrations!

Over @ My Sheri Crafts we're celebrating birthdays this time around, so why not get a card or two made ahead for that upcoming birthday and join us!  That's what I did:


First is a CAS feminine card, using My Mind's Eye 'Lost & Found' for my BG strip and at the center of my embellishment.  Spellbinders' Delicate Doilies and Petite Scalloped Circles Large were used to die cut my focal pieces.  My birthday sentiment is from JustRite's Birthday Vintage Labels Four.

I also needed a masculine birthday greeting, so chose to go CAS again, using My Mind's Eye 'On the Bright Side' patterned papers. For my background I chose an orange weathered wood design as I like the roughness and texture it gives a man's card and added it to my white A2 card base.  Next I added rectangles cut with Spellbinders' A2 Matting Basics (as was my BG piece) in textured linen and chevron papers.  For novelty, I offset my die cuts on the left and right and added my birthday greeting to them using foam squares.  Finishing off my card are 3 small metal squares I colored orange with a Copic Marker and a piece of orange twine tied with a simple knot.

I chose a gray envelope for my recipient and used the dark gray linen paper again to line the flap.  Always enjoy doing that when I remember and have time to add this simple finishing touch, so will need to do one for my girly card, but had already taken my photo before thinking of it this time!

Okay, get those birthday cards made and join us over @ My Sheri Crafts this week!

Saturday, August 30, 2014

My Sheri Crafts Challenge #141: Celebrate the Piano

We're having a fun challenge @ My Sheri Crafts wherein we're asking you to create a card/project with a musical theme or musical instrument -- preferably a piano.  I really enjoyed creating my simple piano card:


I created white keys by making scoring lines @ 1-inch intervals using my Scor-Pal on a 5 1/2" wide white piece of card stock, beginning in the center. I then cut my four black keys using a retired Spellbinders' rectangle die and popped them on foam tape, centered over my score lines.

Next I hand cut my black piano top piece, using Spellbinders' A2 Curved Borders One to just pencil in part of the desired curve.  My sentiment and music notes are both Papertrey Ink stamps (Autumn Abundance and Birds of a Feather). A piece of music paper, checked ribbon and small pale pink rose complete this card. Best part is I know just who'll enjoy this card!

So, let's see your musical entries now @ My Sheri Crafts!!!

Saturday, August 16, 2014

My Sheri Crafts Challenge #140: Be an Angel

Our latest challenge @ My Sheri Crafts is to create a card/project featuring an angel(s).  Since I still need more Christmas cards (who doesn't?), I decided to do a very CAS card using various shades of gold.


This is an A2 card that I die cut using Spellbinders' (retired) Jumbo Scalloped Border Petites along the right edge. I added a darker gold band just along the inside edge of my card for contrast. My sentiment is from JustRite's (retired) Christmas Joy Set stamped in VersaMark and embossed in DeNami's Gold EP and layered onto a larger Spellbinders' Oval die cut in the same dark gold CS.
Finishing off this holiday card are Bazzill gems, my three angels (delicate gold stickers from my stash) and a narrow gold ribbon.
Hope you'll join us by creating your own angelic greeting/project and posting it here!

Tuesday, August 5, 2014

JustRite Friday Challenge #126: Don't Be So Negative!

For the current challenge @ JustRite Sheri asked us to use a "negative" piece (the part that is left after you cut something out) somewhere in your project. This was an easy decision, as I still had a green negative piece cut using Gold Majestic Circles. I loved the beautiful embossed edges I was left with and what a lucky break to have saved it!




I decided I wanted to do a rather unique Christmas card using yellow/gold instead of the traditional red/green.  First I embossed my yellow card with Gold Majesty Circles. Then to make it more festive, I threaded my sewing machine with Sulky Holoshimmer and stitched around the negative piece before attaching it to the yellow card. My sparkly greeting is from JustRite's Festive Poinsettia clear stamp set. Some gold gems and a textured gold bow complete my simple, sparkly Christmas card and I'm one card closer to having them done for 2014!


Saturday, August 2, 2014

My Sheri Crafts Challenge #139: Non-Traditional Shaped Cards

We were asked to create non-traditional shaped cards (any shape/fold besides straight-edged standard cards allowed) and I decided to do a sympathy card. Always need to have a couple on hand, sadly. Ever since I received Spellbinders' Arched Windows die set, I felt it would be a good beginning to create this type of card. Using the Cross Collection dies also seemed fitting and my decision was to go simple in keeping with the solemn occasion.

My Papers are Bazzill and Papertrey Ink's Fine Linen and a gold metallic (source unknown) for my cross. My sentiment is from JustRite's stamp set "With Sympathy" stamped in Memento's Tuxedo Black. Decorating the inside arch is Latte tulle and ZVA Creative pearls.

I'll be anxiously watching to see your non-traditional shaped card @ My Sheri Crafts challenge soon!

Tuesday, July 22, 2014

JustRite Friday Challenge #125: Non-Traditional Christmas

JustRite's Friday Challenge (ending tomorrow 6PM CDT) requires us to use non-traditional colors -- 'the majority of your project must contain NO RED or BURGUNDY'. I always enjoy this challenge sooo much because I have a few 'special' cards I hand deliver each year and this card/matching envelope will be one, so I had fun making/decorating my envelope too.
Using Spellbinders' Layered Poinsettia dies, I cut my poinsettia flower petal layers/leaf using lusciously-thick Curious 'Nude' CS (a lovely gift from my sweet friend, Marilyn). Next, I stamped JustRite's Festive Poinsettia clear stamps using VersaMark ink and embossed with Squash Blossom EP.  For my leaf, I stamped/embossed a sentiment from the same set and detail embossed the leaf's edges.  I nestled it under the flower and mounted all onto Spellbinders Gold Majesty Circles -- LOVE that die!  Sheer ribbon bow and gems finish off the card.
My A2 envelope is cut from the same CS and lined w/the coordinating metallic paper, using We R Memory Keepers Envelope Punch Board. Since it won't be mailed, I die cut/embossed a poinsettia leaf on the flap and added gems for a little sneaky peek of what's inside before it's opened -- LOVE doing that for a few special cards!

Saturday, July 19, 2014

My Sheri Crafts Challenge #138: Christmas in July

Sue on our My Sheri Crafts DT has asked this go-round that we make a Christmas in July project with lots of layers, so mine has six.

I started with the lightest shade of green for my A2 card base and then stamped three layers on darkest green to lightest with JustRite's Merry Christmas BG Cling Stamp and cut with Spellbinders' A2 Matting Basics. Finishing off this simple card I added the small tree from Spellbinders' Fanciful Holiday set decorated with red gems, sparkly gold star and Stickles snow.

Hope you'll join us with your many-layered Christmas in July project @ My Sheri Crafts challenge -- why not -- you'll have one more crossed off the list for Christmas 2014!  ;-)

Wednesday, July 9, 2014

JustRite Friday Challenge #124: Sketch Inspiration

For this JRFC #124 challenge I've used a new stamp from the June release, Rose Bouquet Vintage Labels, coloring the gorgeous roses with the Spectrum Noir yellows set I won on a recent challenge -- they are AWESOME (as is this stamp set)! I shall definitely be adding to the blues and yellows set I won very soon.

My roses were die cut using Grand Labels Four and I topped the die on my card with a partial cut from Gold Labels Four in a lighter green CS.  I had to stamp that sweet little bee and added a bit of yellow to him also, along with sparkle for his wings from a Sakura pen -- LOVE him! My sentiment is from JR's With Sympathy and this card is going to someone special who is having a difficult time with medical issues currently. Hope it brightens their day a bit when it arrives.  It's quite a large card, so I wanted to construct a matching envelope with my WRMK Envelope Board, but ran out of time to get that done this week. That will be next on my agenda!

Saturday, July 5, 2014

My Sheri Crafts Challenge #137: Food, Food & More Food!!!

Raquel has asked us to create a project with food, food and MORE food for our new My Sheri Crafts challenge! It should be fun to see what everyone comes up with!


For my simple summer get-together thank you, I've used some 'old' DCWV paper from my stash and a watermelon rubber stamp from 1999 -- yes, I still have many old paper crafting items, which do get used occasionally -- LOL!!!  My markers are pretty dried out, so I inked the stamp's center in Memento's Lilac Posies, lined it up with a Stamp-a-ma-jig and stamped onto white CS. My rind was then stamped with PTI's Landscape, edged with Hero Arts' Field Greens inks and lined up again to stamp. The blank area was colored with Sugared Almond Pink Copic Marker and hand cut out before adding it to a Spellbinders' Labels Eighteen die cut. I like the shaded effect the two greens gave the rind. Finishing off this bright card I chose a grosgrain striped ribbon I've had for ages to tie across the bottom and tied on a pre-stamped small tag from my stash with twine.

Watermelon is a huge FAV @ our house still, just like it was when I was a child! I'll be anxious to see your food projects @ My Sheri Crafts!!!


Wednesday, June 25, 2014

JustRite Friday Challenge #123: Color Inspiration

Sheri asked us to use the colors pink, yellow and purple from her beautiful inspiration photo for the current JustRite Friday Challenge.
I started by stamping Fleuriste Newsprint BG on ivory CS mounted to a purple card and distressing my edges with Antique Linen.  My flower was created with Spellbinders' Bitty Blossoms using crinoline fabric. Recently inspired by Tammy Tutterow's informative blog post, wherein she not only explains what crinoline (aka buckram) is but where to purchase it and links to two beautiful floral projects, I had to try this new-to-me medium. Love combining two of my fav things: paper/fabric. I colored my flower using Tattered Angels Glimmer Mist 'Popsicle' and secured with a yellow Copic-colored gem brad and added a pink Copic-colored seam binding bow beneath. My sentiment is stamped using Ooh La La French Frills and a small flower from Botanical Butterflies onto a Spellbinders' oval, also aged with Antique Linen. A few purplish/pinkish gems finish it all off.

Saturday, June 21, 2014

My Sheri Crafts Challenge #136: A Star is Born

For My Sheri Crafts Challenge: A Star is Born, wherein our challenge is to use at least 2 stars in your project, I created a simple patriotic card based upon a great Splitcoaststampers tutorial.


I've done partial die cutting before, but Debby's tutorial gives a great written explanation and video, if you prefer a visual method of learning, as well as a great demonstration of water coloring. I decided instead to layer my stars for this go-round. I did my partial die cut and my red/blue layered stars using Spellbinders' star dies, adding Want2Scrap swirl, as well as stars and letters from my stash that I colored with Copics. This card will fit into an A2 envelope as I first cut it on the large side, then measured it to fit my envie after partially die-cutting my star.  As Debby explained in her tutorial, she made her DD a place card using this same technique, which would be fabulous if you were having guests for a 4th of July B-B-Q!!! 

Glad you stopped in today and can't wait to see the results from your "A Star is Born" foray!!!  ;'~)

Friday, June 20, 2014

Sew, Sometimes I Craft Without (#13) . . .

. . . paper and I've been busy, busy with Jen @ Wren*Feathers' Summer 2014 Sew-Along featuring 13"-14" dolls, H4H/Corolle.  She's offering a free pattern Friday of each week if you sew and post a Flickr photo and email her your link before midnight on Thursday night. We're just beginning Week 3, but you can also purchase previous patterns in her Etsy store or just start now if you'd prefer! Of course, her wonderfully varied patterns are also available in many other popular doll sizes as well.

I chose an older fabric at the bottom of my large stash with a beloved small paisley print in shades of pink/orange, which I think turned out really cute for this little peplum-type top. I love paisley prints for some reason and think I was reluctant to use this fabric up, which is how I feel about papercraft supplies sometimes too -- kinda silly since I still keep accumulating more & more -- YIKES, sooo we'll see IF I can break that trend! I also made a pair of white denim shorts from Jen's free Week 1 pattern for Mosi to wear with this top!

Since it's Friday, we already have our next sweet pattern to begin sewing, 'an A-line jumper' or 'pinafore dress' with/without pockets. Jen gives lots of great ideas in her patterns, so I'm thinking what to make. Perhaps this top won't really work since I added the peplum 'skirt', but that's OK since Mosi is a new doll and has only 3 total outfits at this point anyway -- a girl always NEEDS more clothes -- LOL!

Having too much fun sewing (honestly, fabric is as addictive as paper for me!), but I'll be back tomorrow with another paper crafted post. ;~)

Wednesday, June 11, 2014

Sew, Sometimes I Craft Without (#12) . . .

paper, but with fabric instead!
Jen of Wren*Feathers is doing another Summer Sew-Along -- YAY!!!  She is such a lovely/talented enabler (trust me on this!) of all things doll-related, and I'm thrilled she's doing another sew-along.  This time she's offering a new pattern each week for 13"-14" dolls like Hearts for Hearts and Cheries, though you can up/downsize if you're inclined to sew for a different doll.
All the sweet little details are in her link above, but briefly 1) she 'hinted' we may want to purchase a 13"-14" doll (LOL!) and 2) IF you upload a photo of your sewn piece weekly on her Flickr like and email her your photo link, she'll send you the following week's pattern free -- my FAV price -- LOL!
Of course, I had  to purchase a new doll (duh!) and make her a pair of pants using the first week's free pattern. Sadly, I had to await the arrival 'forever' of Mosi, Hearts for Hearts 14-inch American Indian doll, so I made her a summery top to wear with her new capri pants. Think she'll need sandals soon, as she arrives in a dress/leggings/boots.  For her top I used the bodice from another free pattern of Jen's, modified with no collar/sleeves since it's already quite hot here in the desert SW! ;-)

You can still grab the pants pattern and if you email her a link to your pant's photo by this Thursday, she'll send you next week's pattern!  (I apologize this is up right before the deadline, but I've had computer issues all day!) ;(  Regardless, if you love sewing for dolls of any size, don't miss Jen's fabulous blog and Etsy store.  Happy stitching!

JustRite Friday Challenge #122: Card and Envelope Sets


Edited to Add: Having Internet connection issues, so will post w/photos & try to get post written SOON!  ;{

For this FUN challenge @ JustRite, I used a clear butterfly stamp from Botanical Butterflies as my focal image, colored with Copic markers and cut with Spellbinders round die. That image is mounted with foam tape to a frame and shape die from Samantha Walker's Butterfly Corner set. The card's lower edge is die cut using A2 Bracket Borders One which I also used to die cut the top flap on my handmade envelope, made using the WeRMemoryKeepers Envelope Punch Board. I tried to show in my second photo that I added a strip of the yellow CS behind the border die cuts on both card/envelope. I also added a butterfly from Botanical Butterflies stamped in black to the front left corner & flap of my envelope for a little taste of what's inside. My sentiment is from JR's clear set With Gratitude Labels One. NOTE: Check this link, as this all-around set is currently on sale for a great price! '~)
I just love to dress up my envelopes to match my cards and have really enjoyed Darsie's recent fabulous videos @ JustRite highlighting all the gorgeous things you can create when using JustRite's various products and the Envelope Punch Board! Sometimes it helps tremendously to be 'reminded' of the many ways to enhance our creativity and to remember to pull out those products we've purchased and possibly forgotten about.  Thanks, JR, Darsie & Sheri for the helpful nudges!!!  ;~)

Saturday, June 7, 2014

My Sheri Crafts Challenge #135: Three in a Row

Our latest challenge @ My Sheri Crafts is Three in a Row (aka Tic-Tac-Toe) and simply means you choose any 3 in a horizontal, vertical or diagonal row from the chart provided below to complete your project,

My simple card today uses embossed paper, pearls and flowers, so you can easily see that I used the 3rd vertical row to complete my card. I chose some Basic Grey rub-ons from my stash that I've had for many years, using the large one in the center of my Spellbinders Labels Thirty embossed BG. I also added the lady bug and sentiment rub-ons. Finishing off my card is a small bow, flowers, a pearl swirl and a few single pearls from my stash.

We're looking forward to seeing your Three in a Row creations!

Wednesday, May 28, 2014

JustRite Friday Challenge #121: Color It Pretty!

A challenge to 'get you coloring' this go-round @ JustRite's Friday Challenge, so I used Copics on my focal image, my sentiment tag and on a clear butterfly pick.

I used JustRite's Botanical Butterflies clear stamp set, removing the "Just a Note" sentiment edge from my focal image using a Spellbinders' circle die after stamping and then coloring.
These were added to a layer of watercolor paper embossed with just the center area of Spellbinders' Labels 34 Medallion Embossing Folder that I hand cut.
My sentiment from JustRite's Botanical Medallions & Banners was stamped and die cut using JR's exclusive Vintage Label & Banner dies.
Finishing off my card is a formerly clear Sugar Pick from Jillibean Soup and yellow ribbon from my stash. This card was so fun to create and color!

Saturday, May 24, 2014

My Sheri Crafts Challenge #134: Anything Masculine!

Your challenge this go-round @ My Sheri Crafts is to create anything masculine -- pretty simple, huh?!

I took this opportunity to create what I will likely use for a birthday card -- always NICE to have in advance. I discovered my Distress Inks are dried out after little crafting these last several months -- especially my go-to Antique Linen! Guess now's the time to grab those new 'Minis' I've been wanting!

Used Echo Park's 6"x6" Note to Self line today, along with DCWV textured CS and a center panel of PTI's Fine Linen CS. Three pennants were cut using Spellbinders' Lacey Pennants, as well as a 'sentiment' cut from Note to Self. I then covered a chipboard arrow from my stash in solid red EP paper and finished this very simple card by adding an 'iron' textured corner @ bottom right from WRMK, using their Main Squeeze tool. Don't worry, before I mail it, I'll add distress ink to up the masculine factor -- LOL!!!

Selfishly hoping you'll all join us @ My Sheri Crafts, as I NEED lots more masculine ideas for the men in my life!  ;~)

Thursday, May 15, 2014

Sew, Sometimes I Craft Without (#11) . . .


paper -- so here's my latest FUN project -- COLOR  your own dress!


Having seen this blog post, I just had to make a doll dress and Emily kindly gave permission to enter mine @ Harmony Club Doll Pages sewing/knitting/crochet contest on FB!


We have an Ikea nearby, but this fabric can also be ordered online. It is a very heavy 100% cotton fabric, but I'm sure any young girl will truly appreciate receiving her very own dress and/or doll dress to color using fabric markers.


The designs repeat every 36" and after grabbing a yard in a rush, I wish I'd bought more than one yard, so as to have more options in smaller-scale drawings to use for my small front bodice piece. I do love that little dog, his dish/house and the swing though!

If you're on FB, I'd really appreciate a 'LIKE' from you and perhaps you'll want to enter your own sewn, knitted or crocheted creation(s)?!  The contest runs through May. Good LUCK!  '~)

Saturday, May 3, 2014

Sew, Sometimes I Craft Without (#10) . . .

paper . . . and this is the result of one recent session.
Using Doll Tag Clothing's pattern from Freebie Friday @ Pixie Faire on FB, I cut these adorable shorts from two coordinating fat quarter fabrics from my stash. If you're a sewist of doll clothes, you do not want to miss Freebie Friday, which begins with voting for your favorite of four patterns each Wednesday and culminates on Friday AM with the winning free pattern link. You'll not only receive a fabby pattern each week, but an introduction to Pixie Faire's talented designers!
Felicity & I think this pattern is sooo cute and she popped the shorts over her hot pink swimsuit -- it's nearly 100 degrees here today, but thankfully mid-80's are forecast to return mid-week.

This pattern is so easy, well written and goes together quickly with minimal effort -- I'm giving it 5 Stars on my review and recommend it very highly! Cording run through small lime eyelets from my paper crafting stash finish off the 'faux' tie, 'sew' you see my two favorite pastimes mesh well!

Tuesday, April 29, 2014

JustRite Friday Challenge #119: Get Krafty!

After a longer-than-planned absence from challenges, I'm going to attempt a comeback - LOL!  Really love Kraft paper so just HAD to squeeze in a card for the JustRite Friday Challenge this go-round.


JustRite Stamps/Dies:
Merry Christmas BG, With Sympathy (Roses & sentiment)
Vintage Label & Banner Dies (sentiment), Labels Eighteen, Floral Ovals

Papertrey Ink Kraft & Vintage Cream CS, Copic Markers, hand-dyed seam binding, sequins

Thanks for stopping by after my hiatus; hope to see you back here again soon!

Saturday, April 12, 2014

My Sheri Crafts Challenge #131: A Moment of Laughter

I've been absent here for several 'life' reasons since December, but was invited by Sheri to be her Guest Designer -- how sweet is that?! Our theme this go-round @ My Sheri Crafts, chosen by DT member Charlotte, is 'humor'.  I had a chance back in early December before my life got too crazy to craft with two friends from our old card group. Deva shared a SU stamp set, Golden Oldies (possibly retired?). I stamped off this fun 'oldie guy', which I teamed up today with a quote found online that might get a chuckle out of one of Hubby's friends.
My Golden Oldie guy is stamped in black ink. He's  colored with various Copic markers, except for his shorts, which were stamped onto a small plaid paper and fussy cut. I simply typed up the sentiment in Word and printed out part on green paper for the card front and finished with computer paper inside.







Thanks so much for visiting my neglected little blog today and PLEASE go link up your 'Moment of Laughter' projects over @ My Sheri Crafts, because we can always use a bit of humor in our busy lives!!! Perhaps things in my personal life will soon 'return to a new normal' and I'll be paper crafting again?!

Sunday, March 30, 2014

Thank You!

I recently won a gorgeous flower embroidered Mexican blouse for an 18-inch doll and since Jen lovingly handmade it, I just had to create a handmade garment-themed thank you card for her. Go check out her blog and her Etsy pattern store (link @ top of her blog) for many fabulous doll patterns in many sizes/styles, including lots of free ones and many historical patterns. You'll not be disappointed!

My card was made using Spellbinders' A-2 Fancy Ribbon Threader and Decorative Dress Forms dies and tiny Tim Holtz hanger, as was this previous one. I hand threaded embroidery floss through the frame's edges and ribbon along the bottom. The simple dress is adorned with narrow ribbon and a treasured little pearl-bedecked bow that was given to me by my SIL. It's a treasure because it belonged to my sweet MIL who passed away this month at the age of 97 1/2. I shall miss her sweet face and her plethora of sewing knowledge. As she was ever-present on my mind when I made this card, I wanted to share something from her that made me smile.  :`)

Friday, March 28, 2014

Sew, Sometimes I Craft Without (#9) . . .

paper and I've done just that once again! Liberty Jane Clothing has had a fabulous "We Decide Wednesday' pattern poll on FB the past 2 weeks and once all votes are tabulated on Friday, Cinnamon has given away the winning pattern FREE for 1 day only!

The Maxi Dress pictured below on American Girl Kirsten was last week's winner and this is the one I made with a Cotton Lawn remnant that I paid a whopping $.43 for @ Joanne's. It's a little over a half yard, so I'll be able to make at least one more outfit from this lovely inexpensive piece. I finished it a few days ago, but just fashioned a little necklace to go with it today. Of course, you could make this same pattern into a shorter dress or even a top and it includes two bodice variations also. It's no longer free of course, but is only $3.99 and an instant PDF download, so you can begin sewing instantly -- LOVE that!!!

All you ladies who enjoy sewing for dolls as much as paper crafting need to definitely check out Pixie Faire on FB & join in the fun and if you hurry, today's pattern is still available for a few short hours!

Tuesday, February 11, 2014

Sew, Sometimes I Craft Without (No. 8) . . .

paper and that's just what I've mainly been up to lately.  I had an uncontrollable urge all the while I was making Christmas cards last Fall to be sewing doll clothes, mostly coats (for some unknown reason) and have one I hope to be able to finish up and post soon.  However, there's a new beautiful 18" lady residing here and I just had to sew her something new to wear.


Truthfully, I made this fun reversible wrap halter top previously for my vintage American Girl Dolls (larger than Mattel's) and it works okay, but I'd prefer both the neck and front ties a bit longer, so I think Kyla (a Journey Girl doll from ToysRUs) will be sporting this from now on. Besides, since she came with orange gladiator sandals and white denim pants, this top works perfectly/reverses to an orange/white print and the skirt gives her mix/match options.

A 'little birdie' (pun intended, Jen!) told me that these dolls were excellent for the price and when I actually saw them, I couldn't resist. Her eyes & lashes are gorgeous and her hair is so soft! I'm really sorry I didn't get Dana too when I was there, as she is so cute with her short hair and glasses and will have to come live here soon!

Kyla's darling skirt is a pattern that I'd LOVE to have in my DD's new svelte size and she could really use new clothes right now and is a total skirt/dress-wearing girl anyway! I'd even love this gathered pocket skirt myself -- sigh! Luckily for you the doll-size pattern is FREE @ the link below -- enjoy!!!

Gathered Pocket Skirt: http://jenwrenne.wordpress.com/2013/09/16/happy-autumn/  Take some time to look around, as Jen has many darling patterns you'll love -- quite a few free and for sale!

Unfortunately, the reversible wrap top was a free pattern, but appears to no longer be available from Even Ada Couture -- sorry!

Wednesday, February 5, 2014

JustRite Friday Challenge #113: In the Background

The challenge ending @ JustRite in a couple hours is to use a background stamp or any JustRite stamps to create your own custom designer paper. One of my favorites is using VersaMark ink on your stamp to create a subtle tone-on-tone background as I did today for this Happy Valentine's Day card. Thank so much for stopping by!

Stamps: Winter Words (retired);  Botanical Medallions & Banners
Dies: Lace Hearts

Tuesday, January 21, 2014

JustRite Friday Challenge #112: Color Inspiration

New Year, new JR Friday Challenge, new challenge rules and new 'less-is-more' me, as I cut back on crafting to spend more time with family/friends.


Stamps: JustRite Birthday Vintage Labels Four (Clear)

Dies: JustRite Custom JB04300 Vintage Labels Four; Spellbinders' Les Papillions


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