Happy Card Maker

"Six-Fold Card"

2012-01-23T13:55:00.008-05:00

Monday, January 23, 2012

Well it has been a long two months. I can't realy say why I have been so busy, or should I say distracted. But, I have been.

The card and instructions that I have posted today I saw originally on SplitCoast Stampers that was presented by Monique Trappeniers. It took me awhile to get the card right, but I finaly accomplished. So, thanks SplitCoast Stamper and Monique Trappeniers for the inspiration.

The card is appropriately calle a "Six-Fold Card", and you card see why from the pictures.

"Six-Fold Card"

I used this on in a card class that we had last week. Here is what the card looks like when it is opended. Count the folds to see where it gets it's name

"Six-Fold Card Un-Folded"

The card is simply to make once you get the folding and cutting down. The main body of the card is an 8"X12" piece of card stock. The piece of cardstock is scored at 4" and 8" along the 12" side.

Then score the 6" side at 2" and 6".The remaining step is to cut the card out using the score lines. I have inserted a diagram of the cutting sequence below.

Keep your piece of cardstock in the same orientation as the picture above and you should not have any trouble getting it right.

Once you are done cutting and folding the card, the fun is in the decoration of the card it's self.

Give this card a try, you will love the results.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!
Bob L.

"Thinking of You"

2011-11-29T09:21:00.004-05:00

Tuesday, November 29, 2011

Well, I made it through Thanksgiving. I gained a few pounds, but who has not. I guess working in my craft room isn't counted as exercise.

Todays card is the second most demanded type of card that my better half asks me for, "Thinking of You". Here is the most recent one I made;

"Thinking of You"

The image used is from a "Close to My Heart" stamp set called "Childhood Portrait" #D1373. You can see the full set here.

As you can see, the image is a silhouette that I stamped using "Chocolate Ink". All of the images in this set are silhouettes. I love the silhouette type stamps because I can use them to make card very quick. No coloring.

My hand is not that steady so I used a 2" square acrylic stamp block placed over my stamped image, and using a "Chocolate Marker" drew dashed lines around the block centered over the image. The sentiment was stamped with " Juniper" ink. The small and large hearts where stamped then cut out.

I curled the upper right and lower left corner of the stamped mat by slightly moistening the paper then rolling them slightly.

The card is very simple and quick to make. I hope you will give it a try.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Happy Thanksgiving"

2011-11-25T10:38:00.008-05:00

Friday,November 25, 2011

I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving. I always look forward to the holidays, because one of my favorite activities is eating. I can realy chow down. Yesterday was no exception.

So in honor of this theme, here is a simple 5"X5" card that I made;

"Life is Good"

The image used is from a stamp set from "Close to My Heart" and is called "Remarkable Wreath" # C1473 and the price is $13.95. If you wish to purchase this stamp set you may do so at my "Close to My Heart" store.

As I stated above the overall measurements for the card is 5"X5". I stamped the image on a 2 3/4" SQ piece of Colonial White piece of cardstock. The wreath was stamped twice, with a slight rotation between and was stamp with a Chocolate ink. The leaves were stamp in Honey ink and the sentiment was stamped in Ponderrosa Pine.

All of the papers used were from "Close to My Heart". I finished off the card with some baker twine and some light green gems.

I hope you enjoy the card and will leave a comment.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"St. Nick"

2011-11-11T09:39:00.005-05:00

Friday, November 11, 2011

I have been trying to get motivated to finish up my Christmas cards. So today I sat down and worked on one with an image from "Close to My Heart" called "St. Nick"# B1356. In fact I used all of the stamps in the set on the this card.

Here is the card;

"St. Nick"

And here is a closeup of the main image "St. Nick";

The images were colored using Copic markers on "Cryogen Iradescent Paper'.That is the sparkle that you see in the image. It is right in the paper and shows through the Copic markers. The colors that I used were;

Hat; R22,R24,R27,R29
Face; E000,E01,R20
Holly; YG05;YG09
Beard; C1

I used Spellbinder dies to cut out the image and the mat. Both dies were from the Petite Circle series. The patterned paper is from a set from "Close to My Heart" called "Wonderland" # X7146B.

The background on the main card was accomplished using one of the new "Hero Arts" stamp and embossing set called "Holly".
To cut out the smaller images, I used my "Glass Mat" and a new xacto knife.

I think it's a very cute card which does not take much time to assemble.

If you have a question about the card or products used, please let me know.

All of your comments are as always appreciated.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Happy Birthday Glitter Ritz"

2011-11-06T09:37:00.004-05:00

Sunday, November 6, 2011

Todays card is done with a little different technique. The technique is called "Burnished Velvet".

First I'll show you the card;

"Happy Birthday"

The card it's self is self explanatory. Although the glitter does not show well in the picture, believe me it really glitters when you see it first hand.But, the stamping of the image of the flower is the technique called "Burnished Velvet". To stamp the image I used a "Glue Essentials" Glue pad. The pad looks like a standard ink pad, but with one difference. The glue pad need to have glue applied everytime you use it. It does not require a lot of glue, but needs to be applied each time you use it.

After you apply the glue to the pad, you are ready to stamp you image. Stamp the image on the paper. This is very important wait 15 minutes for the next step.

After the 15 minutes is up, we are going to do the "Burnished Velvet" technique. The product I used here is "Jewel Glitter Ritz" it is a Micro Fine Glitter. The glitter is different in that it has very little excess powder in it. You might as well say it's pure glitter, and it goes a long way.

Once the 15 minute is done, the glitter can be applied. Take a very small amount of glitter and apply it to the image in several places. With your finger and very light pressure rub the glitter into the image. Once the image is completely cover, tap the rest of the glitter off. Using a large makeup brush the rest of the glitter off the image.

The glitter comes in 60 different colors. So, you should be able to find a color to go with your project. This glitter and technique works on both ligh and dark color cardstock.

Give this technique a try, you'll love the effect.

If you have a question, please don't hesitate to ask.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Birthday Criss Cross"

2011-11-01T10:21:00.004-04:00

Monday, November 1, 2011

Todays card is called a "Criss Cross Card".Very simple card to make once you do the cutting. I saw the idea on the "Split Coast Stampers" site. Here is where you can get the instructions.

The image is from "Close to My Heart" and the stamp set is called"Enjoy Every Moment" #C1395. The set is from the Spring/Summer 2011 catalog. As you will notice the image is mounted upside down, but that's how the grow on the fence in my yard. And, here is the card;

"Criss Cross Card"

The card was colored with with Copic Markers using the following makers;

Flowers; B00,B01, B04
Leaves; G02, G05

The mats were cut with a Spellbinder die set called "Labels Four". I did sham stiching on the body of the patterned paper with a blue multiliner pen. Some glass half pearls were added to the front of the card.

Very simple card, but I think it turned out alright.

What do you think?

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Snow Days"

2011-10-29T08:58:00.006-04:00

Saturday, October 29, 2011

I had to get a start on my "Christmas Cards". I only have about twenty (20) made so far, so this one will make 21.
This card is from a "Close to My Heart" stamp set call "Snow Days". It a cute stamp set as you can see from the link to my store. For this card I used the house. Here is the card I came up with;

"Snow Days"

And here is a better view of the house it's self.

"Close Up"

I cut out the image and the mat using Spellbinder Dies. The patterned paper used was from "Close to My Heart" called "Wonderland" part number X7146B. It has 3 sheets of double sided patterned paper (2 of each) and matching cardstock. Well worth the price of $9.95.

The image was colored with Copic markers.

The snow effect on the image was created with a "Marvy Snow Marker". I like this snow pen alot better than then "Liquid Applique", because the Marvy marker can be heat set after only 15 minutes. The Liquid Applique needs to dry over night.

The snowflakes I used a "Martha Stewart" punch that I cut out of silver paper that I ran through the Cuddlebug with the Swiss Dots embossing folder.

All and all, I am pretty satisfied with the card, but the important thing is what is your opinion?

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Beautiful Lily"

2011-10-17T09:44:00.005-04:00

Monday,October 17, 2011

It seems like I have gotten off on a flower kick. At least coloring them with my Copic markers. As you all should realize by now Copics is my favorite coloring medium. It is so fast and easy to color with and the color selection is outstanding, over 300 colors.

Today's image is from "Close to My Heart" called "Enjoy Every Moment" CTMH# C1395. It has three (3) stamps in the set, Lilies, Morning Glories, and Daisies. Very versatile set.

And here is today's card;

"Beautiful Lily"

After coloring the image I cut out the mats using a Spellbinder die set "Labels Eight", in different sizes. The two bottom mats where embossed using a Sizzix embossing folder. They were then colored using direct to paper with an ink pad.

A little ink was stippled onto the body of the card. Then I added some "Liquid Pearls" as embelishment.

Hope you like todays card and will leave a comment. All comments are appreciated and posted.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Wait for Me"

2011-10-10T10:57:00.003-04:00

Monday, October 10,2011

It's been a little hectic with the move to the new company that I am now demonstrating for, but I think I have most everything figured out.

I have been making quit a few cards but mostly for gatherings. So, I have not been sitting idle all of this time.

The card that I am posting today is from a set from my old company. I called the card "Wait for Me". Here is the card;

"Wait for Me"

I used a "Stamp'n Up" embossing folder to embellish the main mat on the card. I then added "Liquid Pearls" to the inside edge of the pattern, for a little contrast. The sentiment was printed using my HP printer. Sometimes I wished that I had a bigger selection of sentiments. But, if I did have enough to satisfy me, I would have to buy a larger house to hold them all.

The embellishments in the top left and bottom right, were from my stash. I believe they are from "Prima".

The clouds, grass, and road were airbrushed in to finish the scene.

Well that's about it from here. I hope everyone is in good health and happy.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Xmas Button Tree"

2011-09-20T09:04:00.005-04:00

Tuesday, September 20, 2011

Today's card is my first Christmas card for the season. I call it a button tree, you will see why when you see the picture.

So with out further ado, here it is;

"Xmas Button Tree"

The original stamp set is from "Close to My Heart" and is called "Happy Cluster" CTMH # C1471.

The body of the card is 4 1/4" X 11" and is scored at 4 1/4"and 8 1/2". This leaves a 2 1/2" flap at the bottom. The ovals were cut using a Spellbinder Large Scalloped Oval.

The background paper used is from "BoBunny" and is called "St. Nick Noel". I don't know if it's still available, but works very well with Xmas themes.

The buttons were from my button jar. You can never tell what you will find in that jar.

I guess when I send this one out, it will cost some extra postage. Oh well, you can be cheap all of the time.

If you have any question about this card, don't hesitate to ask.

Your comments are always appreciated.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"I'm Back Again"

2011-09-17T11:00:00.004-04:00

Saturday, September 17, 2011

Well after about a month I'm back up and running.

I was very surprised when the company that I had been demonstrating for, "The Angel Company" for twelve (12) years closed up business without any notice. It made it pretty ruff, because I had taken a bunch of customer order, and had to return the money. I signed up with "Close to My Heart" and I am, so far very happy with them.

They have a great line of products and very low prices on thier product.

Any who, this is one of the cards that I demonstrated at my last gathering;

"Gnome House"

The image is from "Close to My Heart" from a set called "Gnome Garden" number C1470. It has nine stamps in the set and cost $13.95.

I wanted the card to be decorative on the edge, so I used ther Spellbinder "Label 8" to cut the edge of the card body and both pieces of the mat paper. Gives it a little different look. The only thing that you have to do different is to cut the card body down from 5 1/2" to 5 1/8" so that it will fit inside of the die.

The image was colored with Copic markers;

Roof and door frame B02,B05,

Door ; E33,E15

Walls; Y11,Y17

Grass; G00, G02

The hinges and door knob were colored with a "Gell Roll" gold glitter pen. It's hard to see in the picture but it's there.

The corner of the stamp mat and the mat where cut with a "Crop-A-Dile Corner Chomper"in the "Cloud" pattern. These Corner Chompers are great and have two patterns on each.

Hope you enjoy todays creation, and will leave a comment. All comments are appreciated.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Enjoying the Ride"

2011-08-10T10:55:00.003-04:00

Wednesday, August 10,2011

Well, the weather is getting to hot to work out side, so it's time to stay in my craftroom. The temperatures have been in the high 90 degrees for the last couple of weeks. So, it's inside time for me.

The card that I have posted today is from "The Angel Company" called "Enjoy the Ride" TAC #RPH-2. It's from a series of stamps by the artist Phyllis Harris, who designs exclusively for "The Angel Company". There are five different set in the series.

Here is the card;

"Enjoy the Ride"

I colored the image with Copic markers of course. Then I stamped and cut masks for the dog and the girl. Once I had the masks inplace, I cut some Post-It sheets to give me a cloud shape. With my airbrush I airbrushed in some clouds. Next was the grass in the middle ground, using the Post-It sheets again. the last application with the airbrush, was the path way. I left the Post-Its for the middle ground in place for this.

A Martha Stewart edge punch was used to make the white border at the bottom of the background mat.A little green Stickles was added, and walla the card was finished.

Hope you enjoy the card as much as I enjoyed making it. Your comments are always appreciated.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"An Apple a Day"

2011-07-12T13:17:00.003-04:00

Tuesday, July 12, 2011

Seeing that everyone around here has either the sniffles or some other ailment, I thought that the saying "An Apple a Day" was appropriate.

Todays cute little card is from a stamp that I borrowed from a friend. Don't kow where it came from or what the name of the stamp is. If anyone knows let me know.

Here is the card;

"An Apple a Day"

It was colored with Copic Markers in the following colors;
Apples, R-29, R27,R24,R22
Leaves, G09
Basket, E55,E29
Signo White Gel Pen

The black swirls on the card are from a Quik-Kutz 4"X4" die. The mat for the basket was cut using a Spellbinder die called "Heart Circle".

I added some Silver Stickles to the swirls and I was done. The mats in the top left and bottom right were adhered to the main mat then trimmed with a scissors.

Very simple care to use for a "Get Well" card to a friend.

Hope you enjoy todays card. Remember all comments are welcome and appreciated.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"{You are My Sunshine"

2011-07-03T11:28:00.005-04:00

Sunday, July 3, 2011

Well it's the 4th of July and we are half way through the year already. Hope everybody enjoys thier three day holiday. As for me, being retired, everyday is a day off.

The card that I am posting today, is another image from "S.W.A.L.K.". One thing about these stamps, is that they don't have much interior detail. Such as in the hair, hat, and fence. Here is what the stamp set looks like;

"View of Stamp Set"

So, how I have solved this problem, is to us a Copic Black Multiliner pen to create detail in the interior of the image. You can see in the picture of the card, I have added detail in the hair, the hat and the fence. I think it's an improvement overall. What do you think?

"You are My Sunshine"

The image was colored with my Copic Markers of course. As where the half pearls to make them match the color scheme. In this case I air brushed them, but you can use the brush tip of the marker.

The mat under the image was cut wit a Martha Stewart punch called "Flower Doily Trim Large Punch Around The Page™ Set". The only problen I have found with this punch is that it is restricted in the size cardstock you can us it on. 4"X4", 4"X6", 6"X6" all even measurements. It does have a very cute appearance.

The overall size of the card is 5"X5". This is unusual for me because it costs extra postage to mail it.

Hope you enjoy looking at my effort and will leave a comment. Your comments are what make it worth while.

Have a GREAT DAY and a safe July 4th Holiday!!!!

Bob L.

"Flower Girl"

2011-06-26T10:52:00.003-04:00

Sunday, June 26, 2011

It has been an interesting two weeks. We have had some pretty good winds that have taken down a lot of trees. It has really kept the utility companies busy restoring power. The big problem has been that we have gotten very little rain. Rain is what we really need.

Seeing that my power was not off, I did have a chance to clearup some cards that were in progress on my desk. Hopefully I can finish up the rest this week.

The card that I am posting today is from a set from " Stampin' Up" called "Bouquet Pascal". It's a cute set that the sentiments come in either French or English.

I call the card "Flower Girl" and it was made as a Birthday card. And here is the card;

"Flower Girl"

I used alot of different tools to make this card. The first one was an "Impressabilities" embossing plate from Spellbinders of butterflies, that has since I believe has been dicontinued. The second tool that I used was a punch from "Martha Stewart" call "Butterflies Deep Edge Punch". I used a Gold Glitter Pen to color the butterflies.

The last tool that I used, or should I say stamp set, was from "Just-Rite" and is called "Happy Everything Mini Tag Making Kit". The set is worth while because it has 18 different sentiment stamps, 5 dies to use with the sentiments and even a stamp block.

There was not much coloring on this card, except for the flowers and the easter eggs. I finished up the card with some Gold Stickles.

If you have any questions about this card, please leave it in the comments section. I will answer.

Hope you enjoy my card and that it will inspire you to try one of your own.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"My Tummy Tickles......"

2011-06-20T16:15:00.004-04:00

Monday, June 20, 2011

Todays card is from a very cheap stamp set that I bought at "The Stamping Place". Well, to tell you the truth, I did not really pick it out my wife did. She is always picking up stamp sets. She never colors any of them, but she likes them.

The stamp set is from S.W.A.L.K. Crafters Companion. The set cost $4.95, a very good price. Below is a picture of the stamp set;

"Thinking of You"

For the price it has enough elements in the set to make it interesting. And here is the card that I made with the set;

"My Tummy Tickles"

After the image was colored with copic markers, I cut the image out. As you can see the sentiments are arched. I cut these out with a Spellbinder , Scalloped Circle die using the two cut method to give me the top and bottom sentiments.

The image and sentiments elements were mounted with pop dots. Some red Stickles were added to give it some sparkle.

Hope you like the card and will leave a comment.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!
Bob

"Cuddlebug Quilt"

2011-05-29T10:05:00.005-04:00

Sunday, May 29,2011

I wish to take this opportunity to say thank you to all our past and present member of our armed services. With out thier sacrafice we would probably not have the freedoms that we enjoy today. I can only say "Thank You For Your Service" to all those that have served.

Todays card is what I call a "Cuddlebug Quilt". The background is made up of six patterned paper squares that measure 1 7/8" X 1 11/16" squares of different paper. They where run through the Cuddlebug in an embossing folder to give the texture.

Here is the card;

"Cuddlebug Quilt"

After you emboss the squares, glue them to a 4"X5.25" piece of cardstock. This will then be adhered to the base card. The image used on this card is from the "Paper Parachute". It was colored with Copic markers. After coloring the image I used a Spica pen in Green to give some sparkle to the stems and leaves.

The image mat was corner punched with a Martha Stewart corner punc, as was the secondary image mat. The half pearl where origanially cream, but I colored them with a Copic marker to match the card.

The image mat assembly was popped up withPopDots. Also the center of the flower was popped up.

Hint: Use glue to adhere the squares to the mat' this give you more tack time to position the squares.
Use an embossing folder that will give you a high definition pattern so that it shows up.

That's all for today. Enjoy your weekend and your family.

Please leave a comment, they arer always appreciated.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!!
Bob L.

"Your World Is As......."

2011-05-20T09:51:00.004-04:00

Friday,May 20, 2011

Where does the time go? I havn't posted to this blog since the 6th of May. Things are starting to settle down so I will try to get back to posting twice a week.

Todays card is one that I made for a "Funshop" that I was doing for "The Angel Company" For these "Funshops" we usually make two cards that I design. The stamp set used is of course from "The Angel Company" and is called "Joy, Found" T-3319.

It's a very cute set.

"Your World is As...."

The card is very simple. I wrapped "Scrapper's Floss" around the back dark blue mat. I cut slits with my scissors to keep the start point end and the end in place. You can use tape if you want, it works just as well.

The dots in the corners were made using "Liquid Pearls". Works quite well but I am limited in the colors that I have. The "Liquid Pearls" dry faster than the "Stickles". I intend to try the new replacement for the Liquid Pearls made by "Viva Decour". They are surpose to be easier to use and give a better results. I'll let you know.

If you have any questions about this card, let me know by leaving a question in you comment along with how I can reach you.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L

"Hoppy Everything"

2011-05-06T09:27:00.005-04:00

Friday, May 6, 2011

Todays card is from an image that I colored for Easter. Turns out that I had colored to many so I have turned it into an all occassion card;

Here is the card;

"Hoppy Everything"

The image is from "Art Impressions" stamp number P-1588. It's a cute image and I could not resist using it for a card. So I guess the Sentiment sayes it all, "Hoppy Everything".

I used a Spellbinder die "Labels Small" to cut out the image. I did not have the matching larger die to cut out the mat, so I used the "Ticket Corner" punch to make the mat. The border around the background paper was punched with a "Fiskars Corner,Border punch called Bubbles. The background paper is from "The Angel Company" and is a collection called "Tutti Fruiti". This is a very cute collection of papers.

The sentiment is also from "The Angel Company" and is called "Hoppy Everything" number T-2732.

I added a few rinestones a ribbon and "walla" it was done.

Hope you enjoy todays card. If you have and questions please leave a comment and I'll get back to you.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Thank You Friend"

2011-05-03T09:21:00.005-04:00

Tuesday, May 3, 2011

I want to appologize for the measurement mistake I made on my last posting. I stated that the measurements for the body of the card were 4 1/4"X112". They should have been 4 1/4"X11". I'm not measurement challenged, I'm key board challenged.

Today's card is a variation of the offset z-fold that I posted last. It is a true Z-Fold. Here it is;

"Thank You"

The body for the basic card is 4.25"X9.75". The card is scored at 3.25" and 6.50" from the left. When the card is folded it measures 3.25"X4.25".

The stamp image used is from "Just-Rite" stamps. The sentiment is from "The Angel Company". The top corners were formed with a .50" corner rounding punch as were the bottom center fold corners. The horizontal and diagonal strips were punch with a "Martha Stewart" punch. On the right panel the poka dot trim was cut using a Spellbinder border die and chalked it while it was in the die.

The flower was covered with Fine Flower Soft. It kind of blkocks out the outline of the flower, but looks cute.

Hope you enjoy today's posting. Your comments are always welcome.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Special Fold Card"

2011-04-25T10:34:00.006-04:00

Monday, April 25, 2011

Hope everyone had a Great Easter with thier family and loved ones. The weather here was great, and the community pool was crowded.

The card I have for you today is a special fold card. After it is folded, it will fit a standard A2 envelope. I'm cheap that way and try to stick to regular postage.

Here is the card of the day;

"Special Fold"

The image stamp used for this card was one from "Just-Rite" stamps called "Beautiful Blossoms". The sentiment stamp is from "The Angel Company" called "Swirly Sayings". The sentiment stamps is a discountinued set, but I never get rid of sentiment stamp sets. You never know when you will need them.

The cardstock is cut to 4 1/4" X 11". It is scored at 2 3/4" and 5 1/2". After it is scored it is folded in half then folded back to the left. This leaves you with a standard 4 1/4" X 5 1/2" card.

Most of the background papers I purchased from Joann's. The image was cut out with a Spellbinder die. The decorative strip on the center mat was punched with a "Martha Stewart" punch.

Of course the image was colored with my Copic markers.

The card was fun to make. I hope you enjoy it and will leave a comment.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Bring a Smile Card"

2011-04-18T08:28:00.004-04:00

Monday, April 18, 2011

Quite often I send card to friends, for no special reason. The purpose of the card is to let them know that I am thinking of them. The main reason is to bring a smile to thier face. If I can make someone smile or laugh, it makes my day.

The card for the day is just such a card;

"Smile Card"

Both the image and the sentiment stamp are from "The Angel Company". The image is from a set called "Funny Farm" T-3115 and the sentiment is from the set "Funny Farm Phrases" T-3125. Great stamps and sentiments, if you like the comical.

The card is a very simple card, so I don't have a lot of chatter about it.

Hope it bring a smile to your day. Your comments are always appreciated.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Cupcake Tilda"

2011-04-10T09:43:00.008-04:00

Sunday, April 10, 2011

This week has been a busy week. It is "Masters Week". For all of you that don't follow golf, it is a big week in Augusta, GA. All of the top golfers in the world are in town for the week. For those of you that have never had the opportunity to visit the "Augusta Nationals" here is a few photos to show you what it looks like. It's a little piece of heaven on earth.

"The Club House"

Beautiful clubhouse that was built in the 1930's

"One of the Par 3's"

The player are teeing off from a spot in the top left of the photo. The brave souls in the center of the fairway have the shots coming right over thier heads. If you get a chance, to visit the "Masters" take it you will love it.

Todays card is an older Magnolia image. Cupcake Tilda which you can use for just about any occassion. Here is my rendition of the image.

"Cupcake Tilda"

The image was colored with Copic markers. The background paper is from Joann's and says "Happy Birthday". I decorated the edges with a Fiskars Corner, Border punch. The flowers on the left side are from Michaels in the Home Decore section. All of the mats were cut with a Spellbinder die.

A pretty simple card, but it, in my opinion, cute. Hope you enjoy todays card and will leave a comment.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Hello Friend"

2011-03-30T14:54:00.007-04:00

Wednesday, March 30, 2011 I am trying to use as many of Magnolias as I can, but I'm running out of images. I guess I will have to break down and purchase some new one. The biggest problem is which one. There are so many new ones, that I having a hard time choosing. Todays card was maded using the image "Tilda with Tag". I like this image because you can print a short sentiment on the tag. My printing,hand writting, is not that good but I try. Here is todays card called "Hello Friend";

"Hello Friend"

Most of the cardstock used on the card were from "Stamp'n Up" called "Pink Passion". Very soft color, but bright. The background paper is a small piece from my stash. I never throw anything away. I used a Fiskars "Corner, Border Punch" around the edges of the background paper The mats for the image were cut using a Spellbinder scalloped circle and a Label 5. I undercut the feet of Tilda .

A few glitter dots and a bow was added to finish the card off.

Of course the image was colored with my Copic markers. Sorry I did not keep track of the colors I was using on this on. I'll do better the next time.

Hope you enjoy the card and will leave a comment.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Bedst Wishes"

2011-03-27T10:00:00.004-04:00

Sunday, March27, 2011

I have a problem. My photos are a little to sharp. They show up every mistake that I make. Take a look and see what I mean.

Todays card is the "Blueberry Tilda". It's a cute one and can be adapted to just about any occassion.

Here is the card;

"Best Wishes"

The card is in the same style as a card that I posted last week, but I used a different Tilda image. The mats were cut using Spellbinder dies. This time I used the circle dies for the corner elements. The mat for the image was cut using a Spellbinder once again. I did not have the next size up for this one so I cut a piece of cardstock the needed size then used a punch from Stamp'n Up to form the corners to match the Spellbinder die.

The swirls were cut using a 4"X4" "Quic-Kutz" die.

Hope you enjoy todays card, and that you will leave a comment. Comments are always welcome and appreciated.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Happy Spring"

2011-03-23T09:37:00.003-04:00

Wednesday, March23, 2011

I have been asked many times about my method for designing cards. No, I don't pick my papers first then color the image.

I usually color images way ahead of time then pick an image that I wish to use, and come up with a design with the papers that match. Todays card is a perfect example. I colored it a couple of weeks ago. Yesterday I made the card. The design is just made up as I go. Here is todays card.

"Happy Spring"

The weather has been great here in Augusta, GA. Temperatures have been in the high 70degrees to the mid 80s. So I was thinking spring flowers. The image I selected is a "Just-Rite" oval stamp. I colored it with Copic markers in the following colors;

Leaves; YG05, YG09
Flowers; Y06, Y08,Y17
Background Grounding; BG10

The main body of the card is a dark brown. Background paper is from a pack from "DCWV" called "Pocket full of Posies" The image was cut out with a Spellbinder die and matted. The side mats at the edge of the card were once again cut with a Spellbinder die matted then cut in half.

The flowers are from the "Recollections" series from "Michaels". The butterflies were cut using a "Embosslits" that I got from "Stamp'n Up". Although you can't see it in the photo, I sprayed the butterflies with some "Tattered Angels" Glimmer Mist in Gold. Adds a nice touch. The butterflies were popped up.

I think the card reflects a very Spring feeling.

Hope you enjoy the card. Remember you comments are always welcome and appreciated.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"He Loves Me"

2011-03-20T10:35:00.005-04:00

Sunday, March 20,2011

I love this image of Tilda saying"He Loves Me, He Loves Me Not". I think the verdict will be that he loves her. You can't help but love her.

This is one of my favorites, but I do love them all. I used the Tilda w/ Flower and the chair images on this card. The image of the Tilda was stamped first then masked and the chair stamped. So that you can get an idea of what I did, here is the card;

"He Loves Me, He Loves Me Not"

I colored the image with Copic markers using the following colors;

Face; E000,E00,E01
Hair; Y23,YR23,E37
Chair;E11,E15,E18
Jeans&Shoes; B00,B01,B05
Flower & Blouse; Y11,Y15,Y17
Image Grounding; BG10,BG11

The background papers that I used for this card are from an older stack from "DCWV" called "Pocket full of Posies". I am not sure if it is still available. The swirls were cut with a Quik-Kutz 4"X4" die out of gold CS.The image was cut using Spellbinder dies, of course.

Hope you enjoy the card and will leave a comment.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Funshop"

2011-03-13T10:56:00.004-04:00

Sunday, March 13 , 2011

Yesterday, I did a "Funshop" for a bunch of ladies. A "Funshop" is a stamping event where I demonstrate and the ladies make two cards using products from the company that I demonstrate for. "The Angel Company"

My theme this time were easel card. We mad two different versions. The first one was a standard easel card, but cut out with a Spellbinder die. Remember that my purpose was not to make a real fancy card, but to demonstrate the techniques for making these types of cards.

Here is the first card. It was cut out using the Spellbinder die called "Big Scalloped Circle"

"Spellbinder Easel Card"

The image is from "The Angel Company" and is called "Toodles". It was collored with Prisma-Color pencils and OMS. The image and the sentiment were popped up.

The second card that we made was a "Twisted Easel Card". Another simple card once you know the principles of the assembly of the card.

"Twisted Easel Card"

The Image for this card was from "The Angel Company" and is called "Furry Friends". Once again it was colored with Prisma-Color pencils. The shodow was done with a Silver pencil and blended with a "Colorless Pencil Blender" that I purchased at Michaels.

As you will notice, both of the cards are "Birthday" cards. You can never have enough Birthday cards made up.

Hope you enjoy the cards as much as the ladies did making them yesterday. They show some of the variation of easel cards that are possible.

Remember, your comments are always welcome and appreciated.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Happy Birthday Tilda"

2011-03-07T08:50:00.004-05:00

Monday, March 7, 2011

Sorry about that, I normally post on Sundays and Wednesdays, but got tied up shopping. Joann's now carries the Spellbinder dies in the four pack set. The were 40% off and are normally $79.99 plus tax. On sale they were $51.99 including the tax. Great buy, I could not resist.

Today's card I decided would be a Birthday card. I usually make them up ahead of time. That way the wife does not catch me by surprise. I made this card using two Magnolia images, Tilda the Cook and the Cupcake. Tilda was stamped and then masked. Then the Cupcake was stamped.

"Happy Birthday Tilda"

The images were colored with my Copic markers. Some pink Stickles was added to the sprinkles on the cupcake. I added some half pink pearls from "Hero Arts" to add some dimension.

The "Happy Birthday" sentiment was stamped in two colors of ink. A light pink and a light bule to match up with the colors of the image. No, I'm not that steady of a stamper to achieve the effect. I use a Stamp Positioner to achieve the effect. Here is a closer look at the "Happy Birthday" sentiment.

"Happy Birthday Shadow Effect"

All and all I think the card turned out quite well.

What do you think?

Hope you enjoy my belated post and that you will leave a comment. All comments are welcome and appreciate.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!!

Bob L.

"Pick Me Up"

2011-03-02T08:15:00.004-05:00

Wednesday, March 2, 2011

It's still playing at spring time here. It's to the point were I don't know whether to wear a short sleeve shirt or a long one. So, I keep one of each out. Oh, well it's that time of the year.
Todays card is unusual for me because it's a 5 1/2" square card. Normally I only make standard size cards because I'm to cheap to pay the extra postage.

The image used for todays card is from "The Angel Company" it is called "Furry Friends #T-03245". It's a cute set which contains four small images and four sentimnts. Here is the results;

"Pick Me Up"

The diecuts where done with a Spellbinder die called "Fleur De Lis Pendant". I was used to cut two mats in lavender and light green. The background paper used is from "K&Company". I love the glitter on it.A little sponging was done on the light green mat with lavender ink. And the bow was tied with my new best friend the "Bow Easy".

Because there is not much coloring to this image, so, I would classify it as a quick card.

Hope you enjoy todays card and will leave a comment.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Get Well Soon"

2011-02-27T09:19:00.004-05:00

Sunday, February 28, 2011

I guess I'm in a Spring mood. The weather today, in northeast Georgia, is to be in the 80 degree range. I guess you would call it an early summer. Now, I just have to wait and see what it will be tomorrow.

Today's card is for all of you great members who are trying to shake off a winter virus. I hope you feel better soon and this card will brighten your day.

"Get Well Soon"

The image used today is from "Just-Rite Stamps". I love their stamps, they are so diverse, and I use the alot as you have noticed.

The mats where cut with Spellbinder dies in three different sizes. They were;

Petite Oval Large S4-138
Petite Scalloped Oval Large S4-139

The image was colored with Copic Markers;

Roses; R22,R24,R27,R29
Leaves; YG05,YG09

The Roses were coated with Crystal Lacquer, that where you get the little glare from. I decorated the background paper with a little red Stickles for bling.

Believe it or not I did tie the small yellow bow on the bouquet. But, I cheated and used the "Bow Easy"

Hope you enjoy the card and will leave a comment.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"An Apple a Day"

2011-02-23T10:45:00.004-05:00

Wednesday, February 23, 2011

Today I would like to show you another example of a twisted easel card. It is made with Spellbinder dies to cut out the pieces.

Here is the card;

"An Apple a Day"

I used the following Spellbinder Dies to cut the elements of the card;

Main Body Lacey Squares S4-295
Image Mat Petite Scalloped Oval LG S4-139
Saying Mat Standard Circle SML S4-116
Saying Mat Classic Scalloped Circle SML S4-125

The image was colored with Copic Markers using the following markers;

Apples; R22,R24,R27,R29
Leaves; G02,G09
Basket; E11,E15

You can get the instruction for the assembly of the basic Twisted Easel Card from "Pam Sparks" blog. Her instructions are excellent.

One hint on making this card is to cut off the loops form by the die on the hinged portion of the card body, only. This makes it easier to assemble the card.

Try different Spellbinder dies to make these cards. You will get some very different effects. Have fun and enjoy your experiments.

Your comments are always welcome and appreciated.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!!

Bob L.

"Birdie Talk"

2011-02-20T09:21:00.005-05:00

Sunday, February 20, 2011

Good Morning Everyone. Welcome back to my blog. I hope everyone is having beautiful weather for this day, I know we here in Georgia are.

Today's card is a format that has become very popular in the last couple of weeks.
It is called a "Twisted Easel Card". Here is the card;

"Birdie Talk"

I have seen these posted quite often recently, so decided to find out how to make them. I found some very simple and quite good instruction on "Pam Sparks" blog. Click on her name for the instructions.

Although her instructions are for a 6"X6" square card, my card is for a 4.25"X4.25" square. I guess I am just cheap when it comes to paying money to the USPS.

The image was colored with "Derwent Inktense" pencils and a water brush. The image and the mat was cut out using a Spellbinder die called "Classic Scalloped Circle SML". The mat for the main body of the card was edged with a Martha Stewart edge punch.

Overall the card is very simple, but the Twisted Easel format gives it a nice punch.

Hope you enjoy todays card. If you have questions please feel free to ask.

Your comments are always welcome and appreciated.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Roses for My Lady"

2011-02-16T09:57:00.005-05:00

Wednesday, February 16, 2011

It's been a busy week. The wife and I made a trip to our favorite stamp store in Columbia, SC "The Stamping Place". She had some pretty good sales going on, trying to make room for all the new products coming in from CHA. We bought some new "Just-Rite stamp sets that I plan to color shortly.

Today's card, I call "Roses for My Lady". No reason for making it, just wanted to color an image and make a card. The image is from the Tilda series from Magnolia. Here is the card;

"Roses for My Lady"

As I was embellishing the card I realised that I need some pink flowers to use on the card. After much searching, the only thing I had some white one. Hmmm!! Out came the Copic Airbrush and walla, I now had some pink flowers. The Copic Airbrush and markers work great on all kinds of embellishments. Give it a try.

The border around the primary mat was punched with a Martha Stewart Corner Border Punch called "Laurel Leaf". I also used only the corner punch on the secondary mat corners. The design is light and airy.

The paper for the secondary mat behind Tilda I bought at Hobby Lobby. The paper pack is sold by "The Paper Studio". Very pretty papers, and most of them are already embossed.

Hope you enjoy today's card. Your comments are always appreciated and welcome.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Shop til you Droop"

2011-02-13T09:23:00.005-05:00

Sunday, February 13, 2011

Before I post my next card, I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for the comments that you all have made about my cards. That's what keeps me going.

Seeing that everyone is hoping for "Spring", I thought I would post a card that reminds us that it is coming, and also one of our favorite activities. Shopping!!!!

"Shop til you Droop"

I think it reminds me of what is coming, "Spring". The sentiment is a play on words.

The stamp set is from "Raisinboat Stamps" a company that I love. They rent stamps, so if I try the stamp and love it I can then buy it. Check them out it's a great deal.

The card is a gate fold that I made using my "Scor-Buddy". It's just like the "Scor-Pal" but just the right size to carry to card making group meetings. Here is what it looks like and it is only 7.5"X9.o" so it's easy to fit in your bag. With the Scor-Buddy it is very easy to make these gate fold cards.

The image was colored with Copic makers. The center of the flower was surrounded with I-Rock yellow crystals as was the corners.

Hope you enjoy todays card. Your comments are always welcome and appreciated.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"I Love You Dearly"

2011-02-09T09:56:00.005-05:00

Wednesday, February 9, 2011

I know, I said I only make one Valentines Day card a year, but I just had to make one more.

This card was colored with Prisma-Color Pencils. Before I got my Copics, this was all that I colored with. Now as you can clearly see, I'm out of practice.

Here is the card for the day;

"I Love You Dearly"

The image as you can see is a Magnolia called "Tilda withRose". Very appropriate for a Valentines Day card. The corners of the card mat were run through a Fiskars hand crimper called "Wavey". Each corner was feed into the crimper as shown in the picture below.

If you don't have a crimper, you could also use you Scor-Pal. It might take alittle longer, but it will get the job done.

The flowers are from Michaels and are called "Boutique Fluer" from thier "Reflection" line of craft items. They look a little like the Wild Orchid collection and come in a full range of colors. A few dots of Stickles was added. The bow I actually made my self with out getting Rose involved. She said it was acceptable and I could go ahead and use it.

The sentiment was stamped directly on the image. I am not that happy with the results, but it will suffice.

Hope you enjoy my effort, and will leave a comment.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"From My Heart To Yours'

2011-02-04T12:28:00.003-05:00

Friday, February 4, 2011

I usually only make two Valentine's Day cards a year. Now, since my mother has passed on I'm down to making only one. The remaining one is for my other love of my life Rose. Although we don't always agree on everything, she still supports me in everything that I do, even the crazy thing I get into.

The card I am posting today, may and may not be the one she will get this year, but she will get one.

The card that I have made today is from a stamp set from "The Angel Company". It contains 8 images and is called "Furry Friends" #T-3245. All of the images are of dogs and cats. Very cute and small.

The main card is an easel card that I cut using the Spellbinder die "Classic Scalloped Heart". All of the mats on this card were cut with the same set of dies.

Here is the card;

"From my heart"

The main colors for this card, brown and hot pink. I used a Cuddlebug embossing folder to emboss the mat. The embossing folder is call "Heart Blocks", which is very appropriate for this card.

I have to reveal one thing. When it comes to making bows, I get my wife to do them, she has it down to an art. The image was colored with my Copic Markers as usual.

Hope you enjoy my effort and will leave a comment.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Natural Beauty"

2011-01-31T09:15:00.005-05:00

Monday, January 31, 2011

I have one thing to say, "I've had enough of winter". With that said, I'll start thinking about spring.

The card I made today is of a lily. The stamp is from "The Stamping Studio" and from thier flower of month series. Which I enjoyed very much.

It was a quick card, but interesting to make. The lily was colored with copic markers. The flowers on the left side were hand made using a punch and some remaining paper from the card. I added some Stickles to the center of the flower.

Here is the card;

"Natural Beauty"

I was trying something different with the grounding colors on this card. Instead of straight one color shading, I have used two colors to for the grounding. First I dotted the area to be grounded, then I used the lighter to blend the dots. It gives it a little different effect.

My question is, "Do you like the effect or not"?

Remember you comments and questions are always welcome.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Count The Waves"

2011-01-26T10:07:00.007-05:00

Wednesday, January 26, 2011

It's surprising how much stuff you have, that you put away and forget about. Yesterday I was going through some drawers, when I came across six corner,border punches by Fiskars that I honestly forgot about.

The punch I used on todays card is called "A Tisket,A Tasket Border and Corner Punch" by Fiskars. The limits on these punches is that the paper being punch needs to have even number dimensions i.e. 4.0"X5.0" or 3.0"X 4.0". The really do a nice job on the corners and borders. They are very simple and easy to use.

The card I am posting today was made using one of these punches and the stamp used for the card is from "Just-Rite Stamps".

Here is the card I made.

"Count The Waves"

I used the Fiskars punch mentioned above plus some "Spellbinders" dies. Here is a close-up of the image;

The orange diagonal stripe on the card was cut using the Fiskars punch. A few dots of Gold Stickles was added to the card to give it some bling. The image was colored with Copic Markers.

Your comments are always welcome and appreciated.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Using Acetate for Cards"

2011-01-21T09:24:00.005-05:00

Friday, January 21, 2011

I was really surprised at the number of crafter's that were interested in the Pyramid card that I posted last week, it is inspiring to receive that many comments on a technique.

The cards that I am posting today are made using acetate. The acetate that I prefer to use is made by "3M" and is called "Transparency Film for Ink Jet Printers". The reason I use this product is because it folds nicely, without cracking at the fold. The other reason is because on one side of the film it has a coating that helps the ink to adhere.

The first card that I have posted is a full card body made from acetate;

"Like a Garden"

This the type of card that I make using acetate the most. It looks very airy and is very impressive. A few tips on making this type of card are;

1. Use the same size mats for the inside and front

2. Place the inside mat first, then line the outside mat to line up

3. Adhere the mats using small glue dots.

4. For the ribbon also use glue dots.

The second card that I am posting is a card that has an acetate sheet that has been stamped then adhered to the body of a card.. It shows the color of the card body through the acetate. You may also want to try using a patterned paper behind the acetate or stamp the with a "Hero Arts" collage series of stamps.

"Thinking of You"

As you can see from the above card, it appears to have depth behind the acetate. It's a very small effect but it is there.

Remember that using glue dots or Scor-Tape works the best to assemble these acetate cards.

The ink for stamping on acetate that I found to be the best is the "StazOn Opaque" series.

So, when you have time and want something new to try, try using acetate on your cards.

Remember all comments and questions are welcome and appreciated.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Pyramid Card"

2011-01-16T11:24:00.005-05:00

Sunday, January 16, 2011

Well the Jury Duty that I was chosen for last week did not happen. It seems like if it snows, very little, they take the opportunity to cancel every thing around this area of Georgia.

The card I have posted today is a card that I saw a couple of years ago on a blog. I saved the instructions, and finally got around to using them. The blog that I saw the instructions was "Stampowl". She gives very clear instructions on the assembly of the card, so, I won't go into a lot of detail for the card. Other that my impressions of the card.

Here are the pictures of the card;

"Magnolia Pyramid Card"

And here is a side view;

It's hard to see on the picture , but on the right side of the pink triangles is a small slit. This slit allowes the card to be assembled.

Here is a close up of the Magnolia stamp used to decorate the pyramid.

The card is very simple to make and makes a nice gift for the recipient to sit on his or her desk. The pyramid when folded flat will fit in a standard card envelope. So, no extra postage.

Give the Pyramid card a try, you will like the results.

Remember I love to hear your comments, and they are always welcome.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Hedgehog I Love You"

2011-01-09T11:20:00.005-05:00

Sunday, January 9, 2011

Next week I have my civic duty to perform, Jury Duty. I'm not looking forward to it. The last times I had it, on all three occassions, before we were ready to render our verdict, the defendant copt a plea bargin. What a waste of time.

Todays card is a valentines card. The stamp set is from "The Angel Company" and is called "Hedgehog Happiness". It's a cute set that can be masked and used for several holidays, with the stamp elements that are in the set.

Here is the card;

"Hedgehog Happiness"

The first thing you will notice, is that it was not colored with Copic markers. I colored it with Prisma-Color pencils. You can see that I am out of practice using the pencils.

The second item is that I used one of the new Cuddlebug Embossing Plus folders to cut and emboss the frame. The Embossing Plus folders are very interesting in that they allowe you to cut, emboss, and chalk the piece all in one step. I think I will get a few more of these. I bought mine at "Cut at Home", but Hobby Lobby, and Joanns also carries them. So, I guess it depends on where you have a 40% off coupon for.

That's all for today, see you later when I have completed my Jury Duty.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Waiting for ther New Year"

2010-12-28T10:23:00.004-05:00

Tuesday, December 28, 2010

Well, Christmas is over. The only thing left to do is stand in the returns lines, which is long and boring. I decided to skip that annual tradition and keep everything that I recieved. So, look out there might be some re-gifting.

The image I used for todays card is from "The Angel Company". It is the larger version of a stamp that I used previously. It is called "Who Loves Ya" TA-3324.The image resembles a "Magnolia" image.

Here is my rendition of the stamped image;

"Waiting for the New Year"

I of course used my Copic makers to color the image. The colors used were;

Face; E0000,E000, E00

Dress; R83,R85,R87

Bench; B01,B05 C1,C3

Hair; Y23,YR23,E13

The background papers used on this card are from a set called "Miss Moxie" from "The Angel Company". Very pretty paper setr and coordinates quite well. The base for the card is a heavy weight card stock in a dark brow from "The Angel Company".The flowers are from a small can of flowers that are from "Prima". I added a few stickles, of course, every card has to have some Stickles.

That's about all for now. Hope all of your return lines are short.

Please leave a comment if you enjoy this card. Your comments are always appreciated an welcome.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Last Christmas Card" I promise

2010-12-21T10:35:00.004-05:00

Tuesday, December 21, 2010

I promise this is the last Christmas card for the year. My wife asked me for two more cards, but only needed one. I guess this one will be saved for next year.

I used the "Merry Christmas Tilda" for this one. It's a cute image and fairly easy to color. Of course I colored it with my Copic markers. The colors used were;

Face; E0000,E000, E00

Dress;YG03,YG05,YG09

Stockings and Blouse; R22,R24,R27,R29

Letters; Spica Pens in Red,Yellow,Green

"Merry Christmas Tilda"

The Tilda image was cut out using a Spellbinder Nesstibility Scalloped Oval die.I used the undercut method to leave some of the image outside of the oval. Takes a little work, but well worth it.

The background paper used were from my scrap stash. The flower is from "Prima" and the snow flakes and brads are from my open draw stash. Sorry I don't keep track of where some of the items come from.

So, all and all I am pretty pleased with this card, although not very fancy I like it.

Your comments are always welcome and appreciated.

I want to take this opportunity to wish all of you and your families a very safe and happy holiday season. Looking forward to seeing all of your great work in the new year.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Candy Cane Tilda"

2010-12-18T09:36:00.004-05:00

Saturday, December 18, 2010

I thought I was done doing Christmas cards. Surprise, surprise, the wife needed two more. That makes 58 cards completed.

Todays card is called "Tilda with Candy Cane. It is a Magnolia stamp that I have had for awhile. But is very Christmasie, if that a word.

"Tilda with Candy Cane"

Copic colors used for this card were;

Face; E0000,E000,E0
Dress; R22,R24,R27,R29
Stockings; YG03,YG07,YG09
Shoes; C1,C3,C7

It is of course colored with Copic markers. The papers used for this card were scraps that I had in my stash. I never throw paper away, you never know when you will need it. The base card was embossed wit a Cuddlebug embossing folder. I cut out Tilda with a Spellbinder Scalloped Oval die using the over hang method to have the feet outside the oval.

Pretty simple card. Hopefully the last one for the year.

Have a VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

Bob L.

Scenic Cards and another Product Review

2010-12-14T09:13:00.008-05:00

Tuesday, December 14, 2010

Well, we are about as ready as we are going to get for this Christmas, so on- wards we go.

Today I am presenting two cards that I made from a "Heartfelt Creations". The two scenes are made from a set called "Scenic Combo"HCP3355. It contains two different scenes. One is of a water mill on a pond and the other is a mountain scene. For about $15.00 it's a steal. They also sell Spellbinder dies that go with the images to give a window cut out and a window oval. Check them out they are very interesting.

Now for the cards. I call the first one "Mountain Cabin";

"Mountain Cabin"

The image was colored with Copic markers, of course. I cut out the image freehand following the outlines of the image. I edged the image with brown ink, got a little sloppy doing this as you can see. The scene was popped up along with the sentiment. The sentiment is from "The Angel Company" and is called "Life is Short". The mating was offset.

The second scene I used the "Window Die" HCD708 to frame the image;

"Out the Window"

This card was made using the second image in the set. I cut out the window frame using the die from "HeartfeltCreations" it is call "Fancy Window/Frame Die" HCD708. I used a paper from "The Paper Temptress" called "Gold Sparkle". Very nice gold sparkle paper. The background paper is from "The Angel Company" and is called "Winchester". The frame was popped up and a few copper glitter dots from "Jessie James" were adde to the corners. Niced touch with the frame.

I loved making these cards. Give it a try, and let me see what you come up with.

"Product Review of the Cricut Imagine"

I have a new toy, the new Cricut Imagine. My wife says I have to many toys, but as long as I have room, I'll probably keep buying them. When I get tired of them, someone gets a good buy.

My first impression of the Cricut Imagine is, "Boy is it Heavy". It weighs about 28 pounds is 23 1/2" long. Pretty hefty!!!

"Cricut Imagine Front View"

Nice looking machine. The Imagine is a hybrid between a printer and an Cricut Expression. It not only cuts out the image, but also prints it in color. So, all you need is 12"x12" white cardstock. What is really impressive is that the imagine can be cut out two ways.

As a single flat image
As a paper piecing image, with each element printed and cutout. This allowes you to pop up the seperate elements for a 3-D image.

The Image will use all of the original cartridges plus the new Image cartridges. There are two slots on the machine. The one to the right of the main screen is for the Imagine cartridge. The one on the left is for your original cartridges. One thing I have found out is to plug in the original cartridge after the Imagine cartridge and the machine has fully booted up.

Here is a view of the "Main Screen"

"Main Screen"

The main screen reminds me of of the "Gypsy". The more that you use it the more you are reminded of the "Gypsy".

The only problem that I had setting up the Imagine, was uploading the updates. The problem was that my virus software was running. Once I disabled the software, everything loaded properly.

One other thing. The mats for the Expression may look the same but they are not, as you will notice from the picture below.

"Cricut Imagine Mat"

As you will notice from the picture above, the Imagine mat has black lines around the border. These line allowe the Image to find and cut the images that you print. The mat that comes with the Imagine appears to not be very sticky, but it works. A suggestion to make the mat stickier is to take the Cricut Scrapper and rub the mat down hard. This worked for me.

All and All the Cricut Imagine is an impressive machine. I'm still working with it and will give you updates and suggestions as I come up with them.

I have not had any problems with the "Imagine"as reported on other blogs. But, the more I use it time will see.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Last Christmas Card"

2010-12-08T08:41:00.004-05:00

Wednesday, December 8, 2010

YaYaYa!!! The wife says I have made enough Christmas cards. It kind of surprised me because I only made 55 or 56.

The card I am posting today is the last version. It was made with a stamp set that I rented from "Raisinboat stamps" and it's called "Nature's Reflection". Very versatile stamp set. Here is the card;

"Musical Christmas"

The only thing that is unusual about the card make up is that the background paper used was printed on my new "Cricut Imagine". More about the Cricut Imagine at a later date when I'll do a product review. The musical notes background paper printed really well and comparatively quick.

The cardstock used for the card came from the "Papertemptress". I love doing business with her store, she is very custmer orientated and give great service.

The jewels on the trees are from I-Rock heat set jewels. I may have gone a little overboard with the jewels, but what the heck, "you can never have to much bling".

I know this is a short post, but I have to get to the Post Office and stand in line to mail some packages out.

Remember, your comments are always welcome and appreciated.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"One More for Xmas" and a Review of Wizard Grand Calibur

2010-12-03T14:17:00.006-05:00

Friday, December 3, 2010

I'm still working on Christmas cards. The more I make the simpler the design get. This one was done in about 15 minutes and it shows.

It's of one of my favorite xmas flowers. The poinsettia. I colored the image with Copic marker in the folowing colors;

Flower- R35,R37,R39

Leaves-G14,G16,G17

Shadows-G00,C1

Here is the card that I am presenting today;

"Xmas Flower"

I double stamped the poinsettia so that I could cut out the small part of the flower and pop it up. The background paper that I used was from "Design9 Studio" and was appropriately called "Poinsettia". The mat paper was from the Paper Temptress called "Gold Sparkle". A little ink was used around the edges of the image and some Stickles added.

Very simple and quick card . I hope you like it.

"Product Review of Wizard Grand Calibur"

The Grand Calibur by Spellbinder is a pretty hefty machine. It gives you the impression that it was built to last just like the original machine the Wizard, the older crank machine. From using this machine it proves to be very durable and strong. The Grand Calibur weighs about 10 pounds, but move and can be carried quit easy.

"Grand Calibur Front View"

The feed rollers in the machine are very large, and exsert a lot of pressure on what ever die or embossing folder that you feed through. The advantage to this is with the embossing folders you get very deep embossed results.

Have you ever had a Spellbinder die that would not cut completely? Not with this bad boy. I have tried every die that I have, my wife says to many, and they cut with ease. Also because of the size of the plates, 8 1/2" X 11", you can cut a few dies a the same time.

"Grand Calibur Plates"

All of the plates shown above come standard with the machine, no extras to buy. The package also includes a 8 1/2"X 11" embossing mat. Nice touch!!!

One other feature of the machine is that it has a vacuum securing function, it secures it to you work surface very tight so that it does not move around.

You are able to use a lot of the dies that you already have. I have used the Spellbinders, Quic-Kutz, and Sizzlets. One handy cap is that you can not use the larger dies, tickness wise.

All in all I would give it an "A-" rating

Well, that's all for today. Remember your comments are always welcome.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

In Honour of "Black Friday"

2010-11-26T09:17:00.004-05:00

Friday, November 26, 2010

This year I am not participating in one of my favorite holidays, "Black Friday". It's not that I not a frugal shopper, but that I have so much stuff, that I don't in a lot of cases know WHAT I have. One of these days I have to make a list, but I'm not sure that I have enough paper to make a list on.

So in honour of you few that don't have everything, I have dedicated this card to you.

"Happy Black Friday"

Once again, I have colored the image with my Copic markers, but I stamped the image on GP cardstock from Wal-Mart. There is some bleeding. I think I will restrict my cardstock to my favorite "Cryogen". I think the card says it all, not that it's just women out there shopping, I know a lot of men that are out there too.

I don't want to hold you up, so get out there and shop.

On my next post I will do a review of the Wizard "Grand Caliber" a new die cutter from Spellbinder.

Remember, your comments are always welcome and appreciated.

Have a GREAT DAY shopping.

Bob L.

"Waiting for Mail"

2010-11-22T09:01:00.003-05:00

Monday, November 22,2010

This is the time of the year when we all keep pretty close watch on our mail boxes. Why, because we get those cards from people that we only hear from at this time of the year. They update us on the history of that year in thier life.

The missive is in the form of a long letter stuffed in a card. They are always welcome, but some time very sad, because we have not kept in contact more often.

My image today, is of my lonely mail box.

"Waiting for Mail"

The image is from "Raisinboat" stamp. it is from a set called "Joyous Garden, the same set I used for my last card. Although the color on the image and sentiment mats is a royal blue it shows in the picture a black. I colored the image with Copic markers. The background mat for the sentiment was punched with a new Martha Stewart "Punch all Over" punch that I purchased yesterday. I did a little inking around the edges of the image and the sentiment with ink from a Hybride Palette "Cote d'Azure" blue. I applied the ink with a sponge. The sentiment stamp is from "Hero Arts" it is called "Time to Enjoy" (F1843). The bow was matched to the ink color that I edged the image with.

I added some stickles to give the card some bling.

Simple card, but I like the finished card.

Your comments or questions are always welcome.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Peaceful Meadow and Product Review"

2010-11-19T08:56:00.008-05:00

Friday, November 19, 2010

Today, I have two things for you. The first one is a card that I made yesterday at our Thursday Stamp Club. The second is a product review of a new type of punch by Martha Stewart.

The card I have today is from a set that I rented from "Raisinboat Stamps". The set is called "Joyous Garden". Very cute set and well worth the rental price.

"Peaceful Meadow"

The image was stamped with Memento Tuxcedo Black ink, and colored with my Copic markers on "Heavenly White" paper. The main background paper was from a "BasicGrey" collection called "Boxer". The mat paper is from the "Paper Temptress' it is called "Gold Sparkle". This paper is one of my favorite gold papers.

The flowers in the upper left corner are made using a punch. Very cute and easy to make in the color of your choice to match the colors in your card.

This card reminds me of what is to come after the long cold winter. Hope it inspires you.

Product Review

My wife says I have to have everything new that comes on the market. This is probably true to some extent. When I find something new I ask myself how can I use this item, if the answer is positive, I buy it.

The product that I bought yesterday was an unusual punch from Martha Stewart. The name of the punch series is "Punch all Over". And that exactly what it does. It will punch in the middle of any size sheet of paper. They can be order at the "Crop Stop" or "Michaels" is also carrying them, they are in stock.

"Martha Stewart Stars Punch all Over"

The punch is about three inches square and pretty light, but will cut through pretty thick cardstock. Here is the inside of the punch.

"Inside Punch"

As you will see on the picture, the four shiny dots on all four corners of the punch are magnets. The magnets can only be matched up one way. On the picture in the bottom right corner you can see a beveled edge. All of the rest of the corners are rounded. You place your paper on the base, and then lining up the bevels you place the top piece on and punch. Very simple and quick.

"Sample"

In the sample, I punched a 3"X5 1/2" piece of cardstock. Using the punch it is very simple to do. The punch work well and can add some very nice patterns and texture to your projects. The sample above would work very well for Christmas projects.

Well that's all for today, I'm off to do some more shopping.

Your comments and questions are always welcome.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Thank You Friend"

2010-11-14T10:20:00.004-05:00

Sunday, November 14, 2010

I am getting ready to teach some classes in a watercolor mode. The stamps that I am using is "Art Impressions" element stamps. They are very easy to use and give a very nice effect, just like real watercoloring.

I have two samples to show you today. They are ones that I use for my beginners class. Very simple to do once you have the basics down.

Here is the first one;

"Being Grateful"

And here is the second one in a flower theme;

"Thank You Friend"

With just a few element stamps, you can make up many different images to work with. I buy the stamps unmounted because of the price and the ease of use on the clear acrylic blocks.

Hope you enjoy looking at them. Your comments are always welcome.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Back To Xmas Cards"

2010-11-06T09:35:00.005-04:00

Saturday, November 6, 2010

Well, atleast my "Honey Do" list is getting shorter. So far I have tiled two bathrooms, a fire place, installed 9 doors and crown molding and alot of painting. My better half said I deserved a break. yayay!!!

I did three cards at our Thursday club meeting. All three are Christmas themes. The two that I am posting today are very simple cards, I need the simple cards so that I can get to 50 to 70 cards made to send out.

The two cards that I am postin today are from a stamp set from "Just-Rite Stamps". As I said they are very simple cards, but show well. They of course colored with Copic markers.

Here are the two that I made Thursday;

"Just-Rite Nut Cracker"

And here is the second card;

"Just-Rite Snowman"

As you can see, they are as I said very simple cards to make. A little stamping, a little layering, an walla you have two cards done. With the "Just-Rite stamps you can do as little coloring or as much as you want. On both of these cards I used the Copic Spica pens to add a bit of glitter. The matting is a little different, but it turned out well. What do you think?

Now that my wife has given me a break from the "Honey Do" list, maybe I can get some of my Christmas cards made. How is everyone else doing on thier Christmas projects???

That's all for today. Remember your comments are always welcom and appreciated.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Thoughts of Christmas"

2010-10-24T09:44:00.003-04:00

Sunday, October 24, 2010

Okay, so I am focused of Christmas. It usually take me a while to get in the spirit, but this year I'm trying to get a head start.

The card that I have posted today is from the "Penny Black" Christmas series. It's a very Christmasy, if that's a word, and very simple to do.

Here is the card;

"Thoughts of Christmas"

The image was stamped on and ivory cardstock and stamped in a Brilliance "Coffee Bean" ink. The edges were torn and edges with the same ink. I added colored to the pine boughs with Copic markers and added sparkle to the boughs with a clear Spica marker.

The fun part of this card is the flower. It is a stamp set from "Heartfelt Creations" from a set called "Lily Petals". What makes it so easy to use is that they also sell a matching Spellbinder set that works with this stamp called "Perfect Petals". Very easy to do, no cutting by hand. The flower was made up of two petal sizes, six of each size. After they were stamped and cut, I curled the petals slightly. After assembly the flower was sprayed with Glimmer Mist.

One other fact is that the card is a center fold.

Hope you enjoy todays posting, and leave a comment.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"First Christmas Card"

2010-10-17T09:36:00.003-04:00

Sunday, October 17, 2010

It's time to start thinking about Christmas cards. We, the wife and I, usually send out about 50 to 70 cards each year, so I thought I would get a head start.

Today I am posting a card that was done with an image from "Just-Rite Stamps". They are so simple to use and color that I just can't resist using them.

Here is my first card;

"Seasons Greetings"

Just about all of the papers used for this card were from "The PaperTemptress". The papers used were "Gold Sparkle #111"for the matting on the image and sentiment, "Heavenly White"for the image and the sentiment, and "Red Pepper Columns" for the card body. The flower is from "Prima" it adds a nice touch.

The other paper that I used was the holly background paper from "BoBunny" called "St. Nick Holly Berry". It's a very nice double sided paper with stripes on the other side.

The image of course was colored with my trusty Copic markers. The colors used were;

Face; E000,E0,R20
Suit and Hat. R22, R24,R27,R29
Hat Trim; BG10
Beard; C01

It's a fairly simple card, but it's not one that I will send to everyone. Only the people that I know would enjoy a hand made card.

That's it for today, now back to my "HoneyDo List"

Hope you enjoy todays card. Your comments are always welcome.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Boo To You"

2010-10-08T09:11:00.003-04:00

Friday, October 8, 2010

Well, we are getting to the spooky season. So, in honor of Halloween I have posted this card to get you in the mood.

The stamp used for this card is from "Outline Stamps" and "The Stamping Studio". I have always thought of "Outline Stamp' as a company that made stamps that you stamped multiple copies of, colored and than cut out and stacked with pop-dots to form the image. That's not the case with some of thier newer stamps. As you can see from this card.
The image was stamped on Cryogen cardstock, which I bought from "The Paper Temptress". I love to color on this paper. And, of course I colored it with my Copic markers.

Here is the card;

"Boo To U"

The spider web and the sentiment were stamped on vellum. I cut them out with an EK Success punch called "Grass". Most of the ladies that I stamp with call it "Mouse Nibbles". The edges were touched up with a black Sharpie.
A little Spica pen color was added to the owl wings and the flower to give it some sparkle.

Hope you enjoy it and that you will leave a comment.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Copic Airbrushed Seascape"

2010-10-03T08:30:00.008-04:00

Sunday, October 3, 2010
Last Thursday at our weekly stamp club meeting I decided to do a couple of airbrushed seascapes. I did not have my compressor with me, but I did have my ABS1 system and a can of air.

The scenes are made up of stamps that I recieved from "Raisinboat Stamps". They are silouette stamps so they work quite well with airbrushed backgrounds.

Here are the two cards that I made;

"Relax by the Sea"

And here is the second card;

"Lighthouse by the Sea"

To airbrush the backgrounds, I use text weight paper as a shield. I rip the paper to the shape that I need for the scene. Save the torn pieces, because you will need them for the reverse shield. Very simple, but effective.

All of the stamping of the images from the stamp sets was done in a Memento, Tuxcedo Black. Where ever I did not get a good solid black image I filled in with a black Copic marker.
Where I wanted sea gulls, I used as black Copic Multiliner pen.

The waves and the foam along the surf line were made using a white gel pen.The other embelishments were hemp twine and some seashells. The seashells were painted with a Krylon Copper Leafing pen.

Don't be afraid of trying airbrushing with you Copics, it's easy, give it a try.

Hope you enjoy and are inpired to give it a try.

Now I back to my honey do list, home improvement.

Your comments are always appreciated, and I enjoy reading them.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Happy Harvest"

2010-09-25T09:20:00.005-04:00

Saturday, September 25, 2010

Well, according to the calendar it's fall. We have not seen much of a change in the temperature, but if the calendar says it's fall, IT'S FALL.

The card I am presenting today, is a stamp set from "The Angel Company" called "Hedgehog Happiness". The stamped image is actually made up of three of the eleven images included in the set. The set includes to make cards for a number of holidays, including Valentines Day, Christmas, Easter, and Spring. Great set, and very flexible set.

I have made the card as a Fall or Halloween card;

"Happy Harvest"

First I stamp the hedgehog with the wagon, then the pumpkins in the wagon. I cut a mask to cover the wagon and pumpkins and stamped the trees. The image was stamped on Cryogen paper, my favorite, and colored with Copic markers. The colors I used were;

Hedgehog; E11,E13,C0,C3
Wagon; B01,B02,B04
Pumpkin; YR02, YR07
Trees; YG09,YG07YG67

After the image was colored I added "Crystal Glaze" to the pumpkins. You can see this in the picture. A little silver glitter pen was added to the hub caps on the wagon and on the tree. I used a Copic multiliner black poen to add the spikes to the fur of the hedgehog. The copper glitter dot are from "Jesse James"

It's a bright cheerful card and I hope you enjoy it.

Your comments are always welcome and appreciated.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Copic Marker Paper Blending Test"

2010-09-21T11:20:00.007-04:00

Tuesday, September 21, 2010

So many papers work with Copic Markers, but which one is the best one to use. I decided to do a little test to see which one I like the best.

In this test I tried three different pieces of cardstock;

Caboodles, The Angel Company ($.44per sheet)

Cryogen ($.37 per sheet)

Copic X-press It Blending Cardstock ($.36 per sheet)

I used the same image from "The Angel Company" called "Lil' Cuties". The image is rather small, 1 1/4" X 2", so you are working in a rather small area. I also used the same colors on each image. Overall the papers blended about the same. The feel of the paper differ a little. The Copic X-Press It has a very smooth feel. The Angel Company Caboodles has just a little tooth to it, but it is still very smooth. The Cryogen is sort of an off white has a little tooth to it, but has an iridescent sparkle to it which shows up through the copics.

Here is the samples of the images that I colored;

"The Angel Company, Caboodles"

Blends very well, and cleans up well if you go outside of the lines.

"Cryogen"

The "Cryogen" paper blends very well and also cleans up well. The cardstock has a slight off-white color, but highlights the coloring quite well. I like the sparkle of the paper.

"Copic X-Press-It Blending CS"

This cardstock blends very well. It has more open time to blend. It cleans up with a Colorless Blender very well.

Overall all three of the cardstocks work very well, and I will probably use all of them. The real question is what will you use. You will have to do your own test to see which one works the best for you, that's the important thing.

When you doo you test, let me know what your preference is. You know how it goes, "Different stokes, for different folks"

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Oh yes, She Did!"

2010-09-20T09:05:00.005-04:00

Monday, September 20, 2010

I hope everyone had a great weekend. I know that the wife and I did. We made a trip to Columbia, SC to "The Stamping Place" to see what new items were available, and to take advantage of thier 15% off sale. Needless to say we picked up a few items include some of the new Spellbinder Nestabilities and some very cute stamps from "Justrite" with Xmas ornaments.I also bought the new ScorBuddy from Scor-Pal. This ScorBuddy looks like it will be very useful, it fits right into my stamping bag. We always enjoy visiting with Barbara and Judy.

The card I am posting today is from a stamp set from "The Angel Company" called "Oh No, She Didn't". The set consists of seven stamps, of which four are images to color and the rest are sentiments.

Here is the image;

"Oh yes, she did!"

Doesn't she look mischievous??

I completed this one at our regular Thursday Stamp Club meeting. This is unusual for me because normally I just color at these get togethers and do the card at home. But this time I had some papers with me so I finished it up. For using scraps, I think it coordinates pretty well. What do you think?

The image was colored with Copic markers. Some of my markers were running out of ink, so I really had to work at coloring this one. Don't you hate when that happens.

Sorry I did not keep track of the colors that I used, but with the markers running dry, I was distracted. Sorry about that, I'll slap my hand.

Please comment on the card, your comments are always welcome and appreciated.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"I Frogot"

2010-09-14T08:47:00.006-04:00

Tuesday, September 14, 2010

Sorry I have not posted for awhile, but after finishing the bathroom remodel, I came down with a real bad chest cold. My wife says that when I get one of my chest cold, I keep the whole neighbor hood awake with my coughing.

The card I am posting today was done for a workshop that I held. The purpose of the card was to demonstrate the "Folded Frame " element. It's an old technique, but well worth the effort to master.

Here is the card I made;

"Sorry, I Frogot"

The image is from a stamp set from "The Angel Company" and it is called " Hoppy Everything"The instructions are simple. The first step is;

Take the 4 ¼” square piece of patterned paper, and use the Scor-Pal across the points at 1” and 1 ½” on all four corners. Points should be at the 3” mark. See photo below.

The pencil line in the middle of the sheet is for illustration only.
Once you have the paper scored, pre-fold the scores to form the frame. I used green ink and a sponge to color the edge of the frame. Cut your colored image to 2 7/8" X 2 7/8" to fit in the center of the folded frame. Use pop-dots to adhere the frame to the image.
Pretty simple, add some stickles and your done. If you have any questions about this card, please ask.

Just a footnote, while I was doing this post we had four power outages. Which means that I was getting pretty frustrated. As you can see I did finally succede.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Joy, Found"

2010-08-30T10:09:00.002-04:00

Monday, August 30, 2010
Well, with renovations on a brief hold until my wife decides what she wants done next, I am back to my first love, CARD MAKING.

The card I have choosen today is a card that I made for a card swap. I made about four cards, but could only enter one. This image is from a stamp set from "The Angel Company" called "Joy, Found". It's a very cute image and reminds me of my child hood. My mother would have fits when I would bring them home. Happy moments.

This is the finished card;

"Joy, Found"

The image was colored with Copic Markers, mainly in the blue and green range. I used the following colors;

Skin; E000,E01, R20
Shirt; Y13,YG09
Pants: B00,B01,B04
Frogs; YG21,YG07,YG05
Water; BG01,BG05,BG07

A lot of blending was required on the water, but it all came together. The image was stamped on my favorite paper, Cryogen Iridescent White. I love this paper for it sparkle that it has. A few Green Stickles was added for more sparkle.

Hope you enjoy my efforts and your comments are always welcome.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!
Bob L.

" The Lighthouse"

2010-08-25T08:46:00.004-04:00

Wednesday,August 25, 2010
It has been a busy two weeks for me. I have been trying to catch up on my "Honey Do" list. My project for the last two weeks has been to remodel the downstairs bathroom. That included a complete gut of the room and start over. I re tiled the floor,painted, and trimmed the whole place.

The remodel came out great. The wife is happy, some I guess I did a satisfactory job. Now I just have to wait for the next request.

The card I posted today is called "The Lighthouse". I made it for a swap but never entered it. Just to many cards to enter.
It was colored with Copic markers. It's a little over size, 4 1/4"X 6.0". This was to accommodate the Spellbinder die that I wanted to use called "Label Ten". The sky was done with a mask and chalk.

"The Lighthouse"

It's a very simple card, but effective. The embelishments I used were buttons that my wife bought in Michaels. I colored them with a Copper Leafing pen fro Krylon. The rope in the upper left corner was made out of paper cover wire to resemble a coiul of rope. I wanted hemp string but could not find it in my stash. You know how that goes!!!

Hope you enjoy my effort. Your comments are always appreciated and welcome.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Crush On You"

2010-08-08T10:32:00.004-04:00

Sunday, August 8, 2010

I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone for thier comments on my last post, "Bubble Hearts". My wife Rose feels vindicated on her choice of stamps.

Todays post is from another stamp that she picked from the "Stampavie" collection called, "Crush on You". The image is very cute and fun to color. It was of course colored with Copic markers.

"Crush on You"

The background paper in a lilac was cut to 4"X5.25" and run through the Cuddlebug to give it some dimension. After it was embossed it was cut diagonally from point to point to provide two triangles. The bottom left triangle had a .50" cut made to the bottom and side , to leave a .50" gap in the center.

Hint: Don't throw anything away. The mat for the image was from a Kleenex box, where the pattern added to the overall image. I save alot of household items such as onion bags, bubble wrap, and of course the inside of security envelopes, and last but not least, wall paper samples that I get free from the paint stores.

I use my equivilant of the 0f the popular "I-Rock" to place the swarovski crystals on the card. The bow in the top left corner was som pre-made bows that I bought at Hobby Lobby. I am not very good at tying bow.

The colors used for this card were;

Skin; E0000, E000,E00,R11

Boys Hair. Y23,YR23,E35

Girls Hair; Y13,Y26

Boys Shirt; G03,G07,G09,YR68

Skirt&Pants; BG000,BG01,BG05

Girls Blouse; RV000,RV00,RV02

A little white gel pen was used to give high lights.

Hope you enjoy todays card. Your comments are always welcome and appreciated.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Love Hearts"

2010-07-31T14:05:00.005-04:00

Saturday, July 31, 2010

On our last trip to "The Stamping Place" in West Columbia, SC, my wife fell in love with a couple of new StampAVie stamp sets. What could I say but, "If you want them, Get them". Needless to say, I am the one that does most of the coloring and stamping.
I colored most of the images at last weeks Thursdays stamping get together. I do this alot because I can concentrate on coloring and assemble the cards at home. Much easier, I don't have to carry so much.

The image I used for todays card is from "Stampavie" and is called "Love Bubbles". It's really a cute stamp. So here is my rendition;

"Love Bubbles"

The image was colored with Copic Markers of course on Cryogen cardstock. I love the hidden sparkle of this paper. The image and the mat were cut out using the "Spellbinders" die "Label Seven" and embossed the image mat with a "Cuddlebug" embossing folder.

For the embelishments I attached twelve swarovski pink crystals using a tool simular to the very popular "I-Rock". Very simple to use.

Hint: When you want to place crystals evenly spaced, I find that if you take a piece of 7-count plastic canvas you can get you spacing of the crystals very even and centered. Just place the plastic canvas on the space you want to put the emblishment in and count to hole. A small pencil maker will help you place the crystals.

The hearts and the glass where covered with "Crystal Lacquer" gives a little depth and shine.

If you have questions about this card, leave a comment and your email address, and I will answer you promptly.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

Thomas Kinkade- "Stonehearth Hutch"

2010-07-25T09:53:00.004-04:00

Sunday, July 25, 2010

Today I have posted another Thomas Kinkade stamp called "Stonehearth Hutch". It was colored with Copic Marker, but could be colored wit any good marker such as Marvy, Prisma-Color, Stamp'n Up, Tombows or what ever you have. The trick, as I said is to color in the bright areas first, then fill in around the bright spots.

This image would make a very nice Christmas card for someone very special. There is a lot of white areas, the snow, in this image. White is easy to color, it's already colored for you, it's white. The only thing you need to do is shadow it in blues, greys, or blue greens.

Here is my rendition;

"Stonehearth Hutch"

These images are relatively easy to color once you get the principles down. I have some classes to give at "The Stamping Place" in west Columbia, Sc in September and October. After the classes I will post a tutorial on coloring these types of detailed image.

Your comments and questions are always welcome.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Skaters Pond by Thomas Kinkade"

2010-07-18T09:04:00.003-04:00

Sunday, July 18, 2010

It's been a sad week for me. One of my favorite online stores "Cornish Heritage Farms" is closing shop as of the 15th of July. They had a great line of stamps, with some of my favories from the "Thomas Kinkade" line and the "Saturday Evening Post" series. I will soarly miss them. Hopefully someone will buy the copyrights to these series and start selling them.

Todays post is from the "Thomas Kinkade" series. It is called "Skaters Pond". Seeing that it is never to early to start Christmas card that is what I have done today.

I will be doing a pair of classes at "The Stamping Place" in West Columbia, SC, starting on September 18, 2010. The first class will be on coloring the Thomas Kinkade stamp "Foxglove Cottage". We will learn how to clor the image using Copic Markers.

Here is my rendition of "Skaters Pond" using Copic Markers;

"TK Skaters Pond"

I love the "Thomas Kinkade" series. They are so bright and cheerful. You do noit color them in the usual maner as you do with other Copic colored images, but its easy to learn. The trick to coloring these images is to do the bright spots first , then fill in around those spots. Very little color blending.

If you are in the West Columbia, SC area on September 18th, come on in and join the class. I would love to get to meet some of my followers. There will be another class in October, a christmas series using the Thomas Kinkade series of the above image.

Hope you enjoy my rendition of this image, your comments are always welcome and appreciated.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Corner Book Mark Card"

2010-07-09T10:29:00.004-04:00

Friday,July 8, 2010
I don't know if you have noticed, but it seems like the "Corner Book Marker" is all of the rage on the blogo-sphere right now. The are very cute as a gift to someone special. But, how do you present it?

My idea is to work it into a card. Not very original, but different from what I have seen so far. Here is the presentation card that I came up with.

"Corner Book Marker Card"

Very simple to make after you make the Corner Book Marker. It give you a place to stamp a sentiment on the front of the card, and a note inside of the card. Plus the book marker keeps the card closed. Work very well together.

I have written up instructions for making this project and they are posted here. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me in the comments.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Dreams"

2010-07-07T10:13:00.008-04:00

Wednesday, July 7, 2010

Good Morning Everyone;

The card I have posted today is from a set from "The Angel Company". The set is called "Precious Girls" it is a discontinued set, but I like it so much that I have hung on to it. I did one other card from this set that I posted awhile back called " Wait for Me". I love the set and the many ways that it can be configured.

"Dreams"

The papers used for this card were all from "The Angel Company". The card was colored with Prisma-Color pencil, have to keep in practice . I used some mini green brads to decorate the elements of the card. The flowers on the image where colored with Spica pens to give a little glitter, although you can't see it in the picture it's there. The image was cut out in a random pattern and attached to the card with popdots.

The mats behind the image were cut to size, then I measured up 1.00" on one side and cut from th corner to the mark. It gives a nice and unusual mat.

Hope you enjoy my efforts. Your comments are always welcome and appreciated.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

Country and Cute

2010-06-30T10:23:00.003-04:00

Wednesday, June 30, 2010
I'm going a little country today. Todays image is from "Raisinboat" stamps. The set is called "Gals on Mountain View Drive". It's a very cute set and also has a gal on a motorcycle.
For todays card I used the cowgirl image. Here it is;

"Country and Cute"

The background was airbrushed with my Copic markers, to give the appearance of land and sky. After this was done I cut around the edge with a pair of deckle scissors. The mat paper was from a set from " The Angel Company" called "Winchester". The main mat for the card was a sticker paper in a wood grain.

The glitter dots used on the corners are from "Jesse James Beads". Check this site out, they have some very useful embellishments to use on cards. A little hemp bow finished the card. The horses were stamped in a "Briliance" "Coffe Bean" ink. The last thing I did was to cute out the main image, the cowgirl, an popped it up. The line of horses were form "Stampabilities".

Of course I colored the image with Copic markers. The colors used were;

Face; E000,E00,E01
Blouse; Y02,Y06,Y08
Hat &Boots; E11,E13
Hair; Y23,YR23,E35

Very country and fun to make.

Hope you enjoy my effort. Your comments are welcome and appreciated.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

Morning Glory

2010-06-23T09:25:00.006-04:00

Wednesday, June 23, 2010

Welcome to my blog. I hope you like and are inspired by some of my cards to create a new cards yourself.

Todays card is of a "Morning Glory". I don't remember what company the stamp came from, but if you know, let me know so that I can make a note of it.

The image was stamped on watercolor paper and colored with Derwent Inktense watercolor pencils. The reason I like to work with these pencils is the vibrancy of the colors. One other advantage of these pencils is that once the first color is dry, it can be shaded with the next color without disturbing the first color. You can see this in the flowers.

And here is my rendition of the flower;

"Morning Glory"

The patterned paper used is from "The Angel Company". The cardstock use is from "WinWorld" the Colormate series.

For those of you that like to use Watercolor Pencils, you really need to try the "Derwent Inktense" watercolor pencils. One suggestion, if you by them, buy atleast the set of 24 colors or higher. These sets give a much larger selection of colors.

Have fun, practice with what every coloring medium you chose. Each one has thier own characteristics. You will find the one that suits your coloring preference.

Your comments are always welcome and appreciated.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"For You Dear Friend"

2010-06-18T13:33:00.004-04:00

Friday, June 18, 2010

Suprise, Surprise. Todays card is not colored with Copic Markers. It was colored with Prisma-color pencils and Oderless mineral spirits. Although I love my Copic Markers, I also like to switch to different color mediums for a change and to keep my self proficiant with all coloring mediums.

"For You Dear Friend"

The stamp image used for todays card is from "The Angel Company". I love the image, it is so cheerful and happy. The patterned paper used are from a paper pad from "BasicGrey". There are two different patterns. They have been edged with a border punch and over lapped. All of the other shapes were cut using Spellbinder dies.

The card could be used for just about any occassion. I would probably use it as a Thank You note.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

Brown,Pink and White

2010-06-13T09:43:00.006-04:00

Sunday,June 12,2010

Yesterday we had our monthly stamp club meeting, we always look forward to it. The theme this month was a "Shoe Box Theme". The theme for this month was to design a card using only the colors of Brown,Pink, and White. Everyone came up with some very pretty cards. Remember you were only allowed to use the chosen colors.

Below I have shown some of the card designs.

This was my wifes card. She says the gold does not count.

Here is another card designed by Toni. She calls it a paper saver.

Here is a card by Shirley. It is her rendition of the "Center Fold Step Card" that I featured awhile back.

And last but least here is Ramonas card. Very pretty and the cupcake looks yummy.

All and all it was a fun day. An we ate alot of great food. OH, I forgot to mention that, everyone brought a salad. We had everything from Taco salad to Waldorf Salad. So I got to do two things that I love to do, "Make Cards", and "EAT".

Hope you enjoy the cards. If you wish to leave a comment, please do so, and I will pass the comments on to the card maker.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Wait for Me"

2010-06-06T10:04:00.008-04:00

Sunday, June 6, 2010

This has been a busy week, but I made it. Between giving classes and regular stamping club meeting and get togethers, I have not had much time to sit down and post to my blog.

In honor of the end of the school year, I made this card this morning. It portrays a typical activity for all of the children set free and the parents now in daily run mode. Good luck with your summer fun.

The stamped images I used today are from a discontinued set from The Angel Company. The set is called "Precious Girls". The set has five different stamps in the set, and I just love to use it. The stamps in the set lend themselves to Copic markers. The papers used on this card are from my scrap stash, so I don't know where they came from. Don't we all have this problem?

Here is my creation for the day;

"Wait for Me"

The sky was free handed in using Bo1 and Co1 with a touch of yellow for the sun. You know we have to have sunny skies for summer break.

The colors used for this card were;
Running Girl;
Face; E0000,E000,E00
Dress; R81,R83,R85
Shirt & Socks; B00,B01
Hair; Y23,YR23,E35

Riding Girl;
Face; E0000,E000,E00
Pants; BG000,BG02, BG05
Shirt; R21,R27
Hair; Y23,YR23,E35
Bicycle; G02,G05,G09

I added a checkered bow, some stickles and some Spica silver to the bicycle spokes to add a little sparkle. Walla, another card finished.

Hope you enjoy my creation. Your comments are always welcome and appreciated.
Have a GREAT DAY!!!
Bob L.

"Maine Lighthouse"

2010-05-30T10:11:00.003-04:00

Sunday,May 30, 2010

I love lighthouses. The stamp that I used today is from a partial "Stamp'n Up" set that I bought at a yard craft sale. I believe it was originaly a four stamp set, but I only got two. And I must say for a very good price. I can not pass up a bargin.

Here is my rendition of the stamp;

"Maine Lighthouse"

The image was colored with Copic Markers. After the image was colored the image was cut out useing a Spellbinder die "Label Seven". Before the cut out image was removed from the die I drew around the inside of the die with a Spica Blue pen. The water at the bottom of the image had some "Crystal Lacquer" applied. The mat for the image was cut with the "Label Seven Die" in the next larger size. The background papers were from scraps that I had in my stash.

The sea shells that are at the bottom of the card are buttons that I had on hand. They were colored with a Krylon Copper Leaf pen. Some Copper Stickles were added to the corners of the mats. All of the matted items were popped up using double-sided carpet tape. A piece of jute string was tied into a bow and attached to the card.

Sorry I did not keep track of the colors used on this card, I'll do better the next time. This card is simple, but fun to make.

Hope you enjoy it. Your comments are always welcome and appreciated.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Mare and Foal"

2010-05-26T08:57:00.004-04:00

Wednesday, May 26, 2010

In my post "Something Other Than a Card" I was asked where they could buy Roses creations. She has and "Etsy" shop at HERE. You can go there if you are interested in her creation. She wishes to thank you for your support.

The card I am posting today would make a great card for you husband, father or any male friend.

I call the card "Mare and Foal". The stamp is from "Stampabilities" the stamp number is JR1029.

"Mare and Foal"

I did this one a little different. I cut out the scalloped oval first with the Spellbinder die. This made it easier to position the image where I wanted it. After the image was stamped and colored, I masked the mare and foal. The grass and trees, stamps from Stampscapes were stamped. I had one more thing to do before the masking was remove. I airbrushed in the sky and the grass using a piece of paper towel to give me separation. This card has a lot of detail in it, but is quit easy to make.

Now to finish up the card, I used a Copper Leaf Krylon pen to edge the image and the sentiment. The bottom of the card front was stamped in black ink using the tree stamp.

The colors used for this card were;
Horse; E13,E15,E18
Grass; YG09, YG45
Sky; B02

I hope you enjoy my creation. Your comments are always welcome and appreciated.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Tiger Lily"

2010-05-23T10:10:00.003-04:00

Sunday, May 23,2010

Rose wanted to take this opportunity to thak everyone for there kind comments about the pictures of her plastic canvas creations that I posted for her. I am in the process of setting up an "Etsy" shop for her. I will put the addie in my signature as soon as it is open.

Now on to card making.

Friday morning I was pleased to see that our "Tiger Lilies" in our garden were in full bloom. So I decided to do a card honoring these beauties. They put so much joy in our lives. The card is a simple card, but shows off the beauty that nature provides us.

"Tiger Lily"

The image for this card is from the "Stamping Studio" and the name of the image is FOTM2-5 Lily. It's a very pretty image and consists of two different sizes of the lily and the saying "Lily". I of course colored the lily with Copic Markers and airbrushed the background. The paper used on this card were from "DCWV" and the pad is called "Pocket full of Posies". The lily was colored than masked and left in the Spellbinder die while it was airbrushed. I stamped the background paper using a stamp from "The Angel Company" called "Curls and Swirls" for a little depth.

The Copic colors used for this image were;
Tiger Lily; Y13,YR16,YR18
Stem; YG07,YG17
Background; B01,YG05

Well, that's it for today, I hope you enjoy my redition of a "Tiger Lily". Your comments are always welcome. By the way I worked from a photo that I took of the "Tiger Lily".

Have a GREAT DAY!!!
Bob L.

"Something Other Than a Card"

2010-05-21T09:04:00.005-04:00

Friday, May 21, 2010

Todays post is not a card. Surprise, Surprise. I'm always saying how crafty my wife Rose is. She knits, Crochets, and does plastic canvas. She can do it in here sleep, or when she is sitting in front of the TV watching her favorite soap opera. Don't ask me how she does it, I have no idea. So, with that said, if you have questions, I'm not the one to answer them.

The first item is a tissue box in the shape of a cute dog called "ZIP". She loves to do animal themes.

"Dog Tissue Box"

The second tissue box is a cat. Strangely it looks like our cat "Sandy. I can't snuggle with it, but it is very cute.

"Cat Tissue Box"

Seeing that my wife ,Rose, refuses to use a computer, if you wish to leave a comment about her work, please do and I will pass them on to her. She mostly gives her creations away, but also does sell quit a few.

Hope you enjoy her work.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Happy Birthday Mouse"

2010-05-18T08:28:00.003-04:00

Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Yesterday, I remembered that I had not made a birthday card for a friend of mine. Now I knew it had to be something fast and easy. I already had the image colored which is my normal way of doing thing. I color a lot then assemble cards as needed.

Here is the card I came up with;

"Happy Birthday Mouse"

Seeing that the image was already colored, it was just a matter of assembling the card. I picked a piece of background paper from a DCWV pack called "Text Prints the paper stack". It has Happy Birthday printed all over it. I was trying to figure out what sentiment to use, when looking at the paper I figured that the background paper had the sentiment on it already. So, I placed the image so that the "Happy Birthday" showed. Then I cut two narrow strips of cardstock to highlight the bottom saying. The image was cut out with a Spellbinder die, but I did not have a larger die to do the matting for the image. I cut a piece of cardstock an 1/8" large and punched the corners with an EK Success "Ticket Punch" to follow the theme. Added some silver dots and some stickles to the card. Walha, the card was out in the mail.

The image was colored on my favorite cardstock, "Cryogen". Of course the image was colored with Copic Markers. The colors used for the image were;

Teacup; B000,B01,B02, W1
Mouse; C0,C03,C05
Flowers; Y02,Y17,BV00,BV01,BV04,RV02,R22,R24
Leaves; YG07,YG09

Did not take long with this card. Hope my friend will like it.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"The View"

2010-05-12T08:11:00.003-04:00

Wednesday. May 12, 2010

I have a lot of stamps. I don't have a favorite company, I just pick stamps that appeal to me at that moment. The stamps that I have choosen for todays card are from "Great Impressions". The theme is japanese. And here is the card;

"The View"

The card is made up of three stamps, the scene,geisha and side border. I started out by coloring all of my images with Copic Markers. For the cut out on the scene I used a Spellbinders die called "Classic Scalloped Paisley". I used the largest die even though it was to large the left side of the scene was covered by the decorative embossed strip. Next I cut out the geisha on my Glass Mat with an xacto knife. I like using the Glass Mat for cutting out image because I get a smoother cut and no drag on the knife.

For the base of the card I used a Stamp'n Up "Brushed Gold cardstock. The background was from a paper pad from "DCWV" called "The Far East Stack". The chinese coins I picked up at Hobby Lobby in the jewelry department. The edges around the scene were airbrushed with BG10 and B01. After all of the images were ready, assembly started. First the scene was adhered, then the side strip was applied. The geisha was popped up and the coins applied.

The colors use were all Copic except for a little glitter pen used on the mountain and the water. The Copic Clors used were;

Gown; V12,V15,V17
Obie; YR15,YR18
Skin; E51,E53,E55
Umbrella; G03,G05,G07
Trees & Grass; G02,G09,G00
Roof; E07
Water; BG02, BG10
Sky; B000,B01
Bridge; E11,E35
Mountain; V000,V01,W1

Wow, that's a lot of colors, but the scene dictates it. I love these built up scenes and they are not hard to do. Just a little planning.

Hope you enjoy the card. Remember your comments are always appreciated.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Special Mothers Day Card"

2010-05-09T16:28:00.004-04:00

Sunday, May 9,2010
Hope all of the "Mothers" in the groups are enjoying their well deserved day and that all of your loved ones are around you on this special day.

Seeing that I am unable to send flower to all of you, here is a card that I made specifically for you this morning. It is called "Penelope" and the stamp is from "Stampavie". An here is my card honoring your day.

"Flower Girl"

Once again I used papers from the pack that I bought at Hobby Lobby last week. I really love these packs of Hand Made Paper. They are so well color coordinated and the patterns are great. The papers are packaged by "The Paper Studio". All of the embossing that you see are the papers are as they come from the pack. Great aren't they?

The colors that I used for this card were;
Dress;RV00,RV02,RV04
Apron;B00,B01,B04
Face; E25,E27
Hair; E33,E35,E37,E53

The flowers and leave I used to decorate the card were bought at "Michaels" from the flower section, that I cut apart. Buying flower this way insures that you get the colors that you want, not a mixed pack. I used a white gel pen for high lights.

Hope you enjoy your card on this special day. Your comments are always appreciated.

Have a GREAT MOTHERS DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Dogwoods"

2010-05-07T10:05:00.003-04:00

Friday, May 7, 2010

Today I have a card that was inspired by Mary Witter a very talented lady and an excellent Copic instructor. Please visit her at her Blog. She is an instructor and demonstrator at "Stamps and More by Eleanor" in Greenville, SC.

As I said the card today was inspired by Mary, and I hope that I did it justice. Thank you Mary for the inspiration.

"Dogwood"

The stamp use for this card is from "Hero Arts" it is called "Dogwood". It is a very nice stamp that requires very little coloring. And as you have probably guessed, it was colored with Copic Markers.
The paper used for the card is from "Hobby Lobby" it comes in color coordinated packs and has quit a bit of paper in each pack. Very pretty paper, it is called "Handmade Paper".

One note on using the paper. It is very soft and fibrous. The only problem is when you go to adhere the paper. I found the best way is to use something like "Wonder Tape". If you try to use a tape runner, it tears the paper apart. You can see on the card that I had a hard time placing the mats to the card base.

I did not use a lot of colors on this one. The colors use were;

Flowers; RV11,Y00,YR23,E13

Leaves; YG09,W3

Branches;E17

This is an easy card to make. Give it a try.

Hope you enjoy my efforts. Leave a comment as they are always appreciated.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Best Friends"

2010-05-01T09:20:00.003-04:00

Saturday, May 1, 2010

Yesterday the wife and I made a road trip to Greenville, SC to visit "Stamps and More by Eleanor". We have fun and picked up a few items, as usual.

Today the card that I have posted, is one of a series of cards for men. The series is called "Masculine Manuvers". This series is just to illustrate what type of cards a man would like to recieve, no fru-fru.

"Best of Friends"

The stamp used for this card is from "Stampavie" and is called "Bobby and Me". It is a very cute stamp and fun to color. The scalloped oval and the oval were cut with a Spellbinder die as the sentiment background was. The white dots on the scalloped oval were applied with a white gel pen. The final thing added was the "Jesse James" Glitter Dot that I added to the corners of the card.

Copic colors used for this card were;
Skin; Eooo,E00,E01,R11
Hat; R24,R27
Shirt; YG01,YG05,YG09
Pants; BG000,BG02,BG05
Shoes; Co,C03
Dog; Y13,E11,E15

Pretty simple card, but will work for anyone that is an animal love, or not.

Hope you enjoy the card. Your comments are always welcome.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Bless your Heart"

2010-04-27T14:11:00.005-04:00

Tuesday, April 27, 2010

Today I have posted a cards that is a little off of my comfort zone. It was for a Sketch challenge for the Stampers Quest magazine that I design for.

Anyway, I am always up to a challenge. The card that I designed is a none standard card that is 4.25"X6.75".

Another unusual thing is that there is very little coloring to the card. Now that is a first for me. You know me and my Copic are practically twins.

"Bless your Heart"

The card is simple with some embossing and a lot of cutting and layering. The coloring as you can see is minimal. It was a fun card to make but I think came out quit well. What do you think?

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

You Make The World

2010-04-23T13:51:00.006-04:00

Friday, April 23, 2010

I'm happy to say that everyones comments about the Stampscapes candle were very helpfull. Now that I know what is of interest to you my readers, I will not hesitate to post more off beat projects.

Thank you for all of your comments, it make my effort worth while.

And now for todays post.

"You Make The World"

Todays image is from "Stampavie" the stamp is called "Bernadette admiring the spring flowers". It's a really cute stamp, but has a lot of detail coloring to do.

Copic Tidbit:
When I color images that have very small areas, I tend to go with two colors in the family group. Also I don't color in circles. What I do is lay down the light color first, then the darker color. With the lightest color I pull the darker color out. This keeps the ink from going out side the image line. Try it, it works for me and I get, what is to me, an acceptable blend.

I added some Crystal Lacquer to the watering can and some Spica colors to other areas. The paper for the image was "Curious Cryogen", I love this paper.

Now get ready for this, because I used a lot of different markers on this one. Here are the colors I used;

Skin; E000, E00, E01, R11
Blouse; Y11, Y15, Y17
Hair; Y11, Y21, E97, E99
Pants; E31, E35, B05, R24, R27
Water Can; C0, C3, C5
Leaves; YG07
Foreground; YG01, YG05

That's a lot of colors, plus I used random colors for the flowers.

I hope you enjoy my effort for the day. Your comments are always welcome.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

Stampscapes Combo

2010-04-19T09:17:00.007-04:00

Monday,April 19, 2010

As most of you probably know, I teach some classes on Stampscapes. After you teach the basics, it's hard to come up with different classes to show what Stampscapes can be used for.
So, I try to come up with different ways that you can uses the Stampscapes. We stamp on Glossy cardstock,regular cardstock,tumbled tiles,candles, and do polished stone techniques for a break in the standard methods.

Today I'm posting two samples. One is a standard glossy cardstock, and the second is a Stampscapes scenario done on a candle.

Here are the samples;

"Stampscapes on Glossy Cardstock"

The card was color using the standard Stampscapes coloring method. Dye inks,makeup sponges and some markers.

The second image is the same, but applied to a pillar candle.

"Stampscapes on Candle"

Both scenes are very pleasant, and would make a great all occassion card plus a gift for some one special.

The candle is easy to do, but one thing to remember, is to buy the cheap candles. I get them from the "Dollar Tree" for about a $1.00 each. The expensive candles have a plastic coating on them which does not let the picture adhere. Un-scented white candles work the best.

The image is stamped on white tissue paper and colored. The image is than placed on the candle and trimmed to fit. A piece of wax paper is wrapped around the image and the candle and pulled tight. Now this is the tricky part. With you heat gun heat the edges of the image, just until the tissue seems to disappear. Do not over do it with the heat gun. The heat from the heat gun can be pretty hot so use an oven mitt to hold it. Remove the wax paper and use it to rub down and smooth out the image on the candle.

Walla, you now have a very nice card and a matching candle to give as a gift.

If you have any questions, leave me your email in your comments and I will reply.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"English Robin"

2010-04-14T13:39:00.007-04:00

Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Well it's spring, and the birds are a chirping, the flowers are blooming, and the hot weather is almost here. But, who cares as long as my airconditioner is working.

"English Robin"

Todays card is a very simple card and would be good to send just about anyone. The stamp set is from "Inkadinkado" called "English Robin". Very cute set, and easy to color with Copic markers. The sentiment stamp is from "Great Impressions" .

After coloring the bird image I had to come up with a different background. The background paper was made by stamping a piece of printer paper with a script background stamp. I stamped it in Burnt Sienna. After it was stamp, I crumpled up the paper then straightened it back out. The crumpled paper paper was then rubbed with the Distress ink pad called "Old Paper" this gives it an aged look. The edges were hand torn and brushed with another Distress Ink pad called "Walnut Stain" this gives the edges a burnt look. I also used the "Walnut Stain" to edge the image and the sentiment mats.The scrolls in the upper left and lower right corners wer cut using a Provocraft die.

The colors used for this image;

Bird; E11,E15,Y17,YR23
Berries; R24

As I said before, it's a very simple card that can be used for many occasions.

Hope you enjoy my efforts. Your comments are always appreciated.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!
Bob L.

"Mixed Bag"

2010-04-11T09:45:00.004-04:00

Sunday, April 11,2010

Yesterday the wife and I attended our monthly Stamping get together.Just one of many that we participate in. This happens every month and is real fun. The month before the event we pick a theme for the event. The theme picked for this month was to design a gift tag, size 2 1/2" X 2 1/2".

Each participant designs a tag and the material for each person to make five of the tags. It's interesting to see what everyone comes up with. And, as usual everyone had a great time.

Here is a sample of some of the tags;

The card that I have for the day is a stamp from "The Stamping Studio" the stamp is called "Bubbles". I love fairy stamps.

"Bubbles"

The paper used for the image was "Cryogen" cardstock. I love the sparkle of this paper. It was colored with Copic markers, of course.

The frame for the image was cut with a new Cuttlebug A2 Embossing/Cutting die. My wife wanted to contribute to this card so she made the small flowers in the corners of the frame from plastic canvas. Don't ask me how she does it, she is very crafty. Thank You Rose.

The rest of the card is pretty standard. Once the image was colored and mounted in the frame it was popped up from the card. I did not put any stickles on this one, because the Cryogen cardstock already give the image enough sparkle.

The colors used on the fairy were;

Wings; BV0000,BV00,BV01
Skin; E0000,E000,E00
Dress; RV11,RV13,RV14
Bubble; BG0000,BG000,BG01,BG02,BG05
Hair; Y22,YR23,E35

As the title of this post said, "Mixed Bag" it is definitely that.

Hope you enjoy it. Your comments are appreciated and read.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

Sun Rise Bird Watching

2010-04-07T09:34:00.005-04:00

Wednesday, April 7, 20109

Well, I guess the opinions of the "Guardian Castle" is in. It was 30% for the Prismacolor version, 50% for the Copic (No Surprise) and 20% for the Derwent Inktense. I'm happy that I could inpire some of you to try different coloring mediums. I glad that I was able to accomplish that.

Today, I am off to something new. It's an airbrushed background and uses a silhouette stamp from "Cornish Heritage Farms" called "Bird Watching" . The stamp used is from "The Saturday Evening Post" series.

First I airbrushed the background using Y06 to about half of the way down the card. Then from the top I airbrushed with YR14 to about the half way point for the Y06.

The remainder of the background was done with B05. I then used a C03 marker to simulate the hills, and blended this out with a C0 marker.

For the sun, I punched out a half circle and placed it at the half way point and airbrushed the sun with YR14.
The stamp was done in Memento Tuxedo Black at this point and touches of color worked in.

Now after all of this work, I did not want to cove up the coloring, who would. So, I cut a piece of acetate and stamped a saying from "The Angel Company" called "Linear Sentiments" in Staz-On Cloud White ink at the top and bottom od the piece of acetate.

I attached the acetate to the card with some small brads. The acetate only covers the image.

So let take a look at the card;

"Sun Rise Bird Watching"

I finished off the card with some Copper Stickles. I like the results, it almost looks like a Saturday Evening Post picture.

Hope you enjoy my efforts. You comments are always appreciated.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

TK Guardian Castle (Derwent Inktense Version)

2010-04-05T08:47:00.004-04:00

Monday, April 5, 2010

This is the third version of the Thomas Kinkade, "Guardian Castle". The version was colored with "Derwent Inktense Pencils" and cost about $24.79 for a set of 24.

A little about the Inktense pencils. Inktense pencils can be used dry for rich, intense color or washed out with a little water to create a vivid translucent effect. Once dry, the color is permanent and can be worked over with other media. Although I only had a set of 12, I was able to produce pretty good shading. I use an Aqua Brush to blend out the colors. Because the inks are permenant one they are dry, you are able to build up some pretty nice shading. Make sure that you let the colors dry between layers.
So let's have a look at the card;

"TK Guardian Castle (Inktense Version)"

Although the difference between the three versions is slight there is a distinct difference. It show on very important fact. That no matter what coloring medium you use, you can get beautiful results. So don't be afraid to try different coloring mediums. Try them you may have found your nitch.

So far the opinion of which medium you like best between Copic and Prismacolor Pencil, is 50/50. Let's see how the Inktense version changes the mix.

Hope you enjoy my efforts. Let me know by your comments how the versions compare, and your preference.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

TK Guardian Castle (Copic Version)

2010-04-03T10:59:00.003-04:00

Saturday, April 3,2010

This morning I finished up the Copic Marker Version of the "Guadian Castle". You will see the difference right away. The Copic version is much more vibrant than the Prismacolor pencil version.

Copic Tidbit:

When coloring a very detailed stamp such as this, takes a little different technique. The trick to it is that you are layering colors, and then blending the darker color with the lighter maker color in a brush pull stroke. No circles, because they are very small area that you are working with.

It is much faster with the Copic. It took me longer to pick out the colors than it did to color the image. It only took me a half hour to finish the image. The image was stamped on Cryogen paper, which adds a nice sparkle.

"Guardian Castle (Copic Version)"

It's up to you which version you prefer. I would trend to pick the Copic version because of it vibrancy.

I will try to work on the Derwent Inktense watercolor version, but seeing that it is Easter Sunday, my understanding wife may nix that.

Hope you enjoy the Copic version. Let me know by you comments which you prefer.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

Guardian Castle

2010-04-02T15:30:00.003-04:00

Today I have posted a card that is not colored with Copic Markers. It is a stamp from "Cornish Heritage Farms" and is called "Guardian Castle". It is from their Thomas Kinkade series.

The image was colored with Prismacolor pencils and OMS. It's a little harder to do, but well worth the effort. I'll do the next renditions of the image using Copic Markers.I should have it done in the next day or two. The third of the series will be done with Derwent Inktense. It is a water soluable colored pencil that once it dries, is permanent.

About the card. After it was colored, I stamped the Green cardstock with a wood grain background stamp in black ink. The gold corrugated cardstock was bordered with a Fiskars Corner,Border punch. The corner scroll at the bottom right of the image was cut with a Quic-Kutz die. Copper Glitter Dots from "Jesse James", they add a nice touch.

So with out further a due, here is the card;

"Guardian Castle"

Hope you enjoy the card, keep checking back for the other versions. Your comments or questions are always welcome.
Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

"Gone Fish'n"

2010-03-31T10:26:00.003-04:00

Wednesday, March 31, 2010

Today I have posted another "Masculine Manuvers" card. The image is from a set from "The Angel Company" . The set is called "Wonder and Joy" and is in the Serendipity cataloge, it consists of four images the lend very nicely to coloring with Copic Markers.

Seeing this card was made for my "Masculine Manuvers" series, there is not much "Fru-Fru" added. This is a standard card and by looking at it you can make it.

So here is the card;

"Gone Fish'n"

The image was stamped on "Cryogen" paper. I love this paper because it bleeds very little and cleans up with the blender easily. It has a sparkle to the paper that show through the colors and can be even seen on the photo.

The colors used for this image where;

Face; E000,E00,E01,R20
Hat; R22,R24,R27
Shirt;Y06,Y08
Pants; BG01,BG05
Pail;C1,C5
Pole; E11, E13

Hope you enjoy it. Your comments are welcome.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

First Love

2010-03-26T09:27:00.005-04:00

Friday, March 26, 2010

The temperature here has, for the last couple of days, been in the high 70 degree range. Beautiful weather. I guess I'll have to get out and do some spring yard work. Not looking forward to that.

Todays card is from a stamp that I recieved in one of my birthday cards in January. I don't know what company the stamp is from, but I love it. If you know where the stamp is from, let me know.

The card is a basic card. It is made up from the colors,brown, orange, and yellow. The pattern paper is from "DCWV" called Text and Prints. The "Prints" pad is self adhesive, and is the first time I've worked with it. I know, call me old fashioned.
The Text patterned paper was cut into 1 13/16"X 3.50" pieces, 2 each. The patterned paper was cut to 1 13/16"X1.5" , 2 each,and mounted on a 4.0"X5.25" piece of brown cardstock.
I colored the image with Copic marker, in the following colors;

Face: E000,E00,E01,R20
Hair; Y23,YR23,E35
Dress; RV00,RV01,RV04
Pants;BG00,BG01,BG05
Shirt; Y13,Y15,Y17

So let's take a look at the card;

"First Love"

After the image was colored I stippled the edge of the card with Palette Hybrid, Orangie ink. The card was assembled and the Orange stickle was added to the corners of the image placard. The flower was from a Martha Stewart collection. I also added some stickles to the center of the flower.

So that's my card for the day. Yesterday the wife and I attended our weekly stamp club day. I got a lot of images colored, and now I have to make them into cards. I know this is not the normal way to do cards. Most card makers choose their papers first, then color the image to match the paper. I guess I not doing things in the normal way, but it works for me.

Question: who else does it my way??

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

Have

Spring Gerber Daisy

2010-03-20T08:51:00.003-04:00

Saturday, March 20, 2010

Seeing that today is the first day of spring, and the temperature is predicted to be 78 degrees today, I think we can say it's Spring. So with that in mind, I have another spring card for you.

I call it "Spring Gerber Daisy". The Stamp is from "GinaK Designs". We have a friend in our stamp club that is 84 years young. She love to color flowers, in fact that's about all she colors. She does a beautiful job on them. I now have her addicted to Copic Markers.

The card today was colored with Copic Marker. I colored the background for the flower with my Copic Airbrush while it was still in the Spellbinders die. The left side lace was created using the "Martha Stewart" "Double Loop Punch". Some "Magic Mesh" was added to the right side of the card to give it some demension.

So here is the card;

"Spring Gerber Daisy"

The colors used for the image are;

Flower; Y06, Y38
Leaves; YG06,YG13
Background: YG05,BG11

Hope you enjoy the card, and get in the Spring mood.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

Spring Chick Double Pocket Card

2010-03-15T10:47:00.005-04:00

Monday, March 15, 2010

Good Morning Everyone. I'm still in the spring mood, so todays card is in that theme.

The only thing different about the card is that it is a "Double Pocket Card" made out of one sheet of double sided patterned paper. The card is a standard size once made which measures 4.25"X5.5". I got the idea from another bloggers video on YouTube.

If you wish to watch the video it is HERE. The video was posted by Jessica Taylor at http://www.inkitupwithjessica.com/ .
It's a very cute card and would make a great all occassions card, just by the way that you embelish it. One note when folding the card, remember that you are viewing the video as a spectator, so the folds are backwards.

I have made it into a Spring card by using a stamp set from "The Stamping Studio". I love this set.
The chick was stamped first, than masked and the fence was stamped. I was of course colored with Copic Markers. The frillie parts were cut with a Martha Stewart "Double Loop Punch".

The card is quite simple to make, but take your time with the folding and get nice crisp folds.

Now here is the card front and the card with the tags showing.

"Flower Chick"

"Flower Chick w/Tags Showing"

The tags were hand cut to 2"X4" from Ivory cardstock. The mat for the tags were cut to 2 .25"X4.25" from Orange cardstock. The edges of the Ivory tags were done with a Palette Orangie ink pad. The colors use for the image were;

Chick; Y13,Y18,YR04
Flowers; R17,R20,R22,B01,B02,B05
Grass; YG17,G00
Fence; E09,E13,E35

After the image was colored, IK cut it out using my GlassMat and anXacto Knife. The image was adhered to the Orange cardstock and free hand cut.

Try this card you will love the results.
Let me know what you think of the card with your comments. They are appreciated.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

Pretty Lily

2010-03-07T09:53:00.004-05:00

Sunday, March 7, 2010
I am getting into the spring mood, I'm Tired of the winter already. I know that we have atleast another month before we get rid of the icky weather, but I'm in the mood for SPRING.

Todays card reminds me of spring. The stamp set comes from GinaK Designs and is called "Friendship's Garden" there is about 6 flowers in this set and some sentiments. I have chosen the lily for todays care. The frame for the flower was cut out using the " Martha Stewart Combo Double Loop Punch Set" it gives a very airy effect to the mat.

The mat wash airbrushed with Copic markers in a YG03 than in a E33. The inside of the mat was stamped in in a Burnt Sienna with a stamp set from "The Angel Company" called "Script Background". The mat was cut from Ivory Cardstock.

After the card was assembled the entire card was lightly sprayed with Tattered Angels, Glimmer Mist, Gold.

"Pretty Lily"

The image was colored with Copic Markers, of course. In the following colors;

Pot; E09, E13,E21
Leaves; YG06,YG45
Flower; Y00;Y08

The lilly was cut out using my favorite cutting mat, a glass mat, and an Xacto knife. I you have not tried one of these "Glass Cutting Mats" try one. They make cutting out images very easy. The glass mat eliminates the drag on your Xacto blade that you get with a standard cutting mat. Gon't worry about breaking the Glass Mat, just store it in the box that it came in. I have had mine for about five years, and it as good as new.The image of the lily was popped up from the mat. The background paper used was from "DCWV" called "Text Prints" it comes in a pad.

Hope you enjoy my spring card, please leave comments to let me know what you think.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

Airbrushed Sunset

2010-03-02T09:08:00.004-05:00

Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Good morning everyone. Todays card has hardly any coloring to it. The sunset was airbrushed in using the Copic Airbrush System. The stamp set used is from "The Stamping Studio" and it was stamped in Memento, Rich Cocoa. The stamping was done after the sunset was airbrushed in.

The mat was cut then punched with an EK Sucess Corner Adorner punch. Some Copper Stickles was added to the corner flowers to give it some sparkle.

Very simple card, but effective. This is a good manly card, and the sentiment can be changed to suit the occassion.
So, here is the card.

"Airbrushed Sunset"

Hope you enjoyed todays card. Your comments are appreciated.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

You Made My Day

2010-02-26T10:56:00.003-05:00

Friday, February 26, 2010
Today I have tried a new way to mount my Tilda. It is called "Out of Bounds" which uses Spellbinder dies to cut a shape even when the colored image does not fit in the die. The "YouTube" video is here. The video was made for Paperthreads.

Once you perfect the method for doing the "Out of Bounds" technique the rest of the card uses standard methods.

You will notice on the card, two small roses. I did not have two of them that was the color I needed to match the colors of the card. What did I do?
I got out my trusty Copic ABS1 Airbrush and airbrushed the roses using and RV06 Copic marker. Here is a hint.

Copic Tidbit:
When you are using your airbrush, and not enough ink is being dispensed, take the cap off of the other end of the marker that is in the airbrush.

The rest of the card is pretty standard. The bracket in the top right and bottom left are cut with a Provocraft 2"X2" die. The brown cardstock and the saying are from"The Angel Company". Some "Liquid Pearls" were added to the point of the blossom.
And now for the card;

"You Made My Day"

The image of course was colored with Copic marker. The marker used for this card were;

Skin; E11,E13,E21,E25,R32
Rose; R22, R27
Dress; RV00, RV02, RV06
Socks; Y13, Y19
Hair; E11, E25, E35

Hope you enjoy the card, and await your comments.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!

Bob L.

Everything is Blooming

2010-02-21T11:14:00.005-05:00

Sunday, February 21, 2010

Before I talk about todays card, I need to answer some questions about my last posted card "Cabin is where the Heart". The card was made up of five (5) stamps from "Raisinboat". No, I did not hand draw the scene, I wish I was that good.

Todays card was made with an image from "The Angel Company". The stamp set is called "Everything is Blooming".
The image was colored with Copic Markers, then cut out with a Spellbinder die then the mat was cut once again with the same Spellbinder die, just the next size up. The mat was then embossed with a Cuddlebug Embossing Folder called Swiss Dots. One of my favorites.

I did not have any glitter brads for the center of the flower. So, I used a Marvy Glue Pen to cover the brad then dipped it in glitter.
The borders on the patterned paper was punched with a Martha Stewart border punch.
Now for the card;

"Everything is Blooming"

The colors used for this card were;

Skin; E0000,E000, E00
Dress; RV00, RV02,RV06
Belt & Boots; B0000,B02,B05
Flower; Y19
Chick; Y08, Y11
Hair; E25,E30,E35
The paper used for the image and the saying was Cryogen White. It is an interesting paper in that it has a sparkle built into it. It works very well with the Copic Markers. I got the paper from "PaperCuts".
That's all for now.

Have a GREAT DAY!!!
Bob L.