Black Cats Studios

Spring Clean . . . . and simple

2012-02-29T21:01:00.000-08:00

Which for those regular readers on my blog know that CAS (clean and simple) is my favorite style. And, After Dreamweaver Stencils' February challenge of St. Pat's or Green, aren't you a little tired of green? Then this month provides the opportunity of doing any color you wish . . . including green. However, you have to keep it clean . . . and simple! Yep. We are challenging you to create with your Dreamweaver products in a CAS style. This is our way of encouraging you to begin your "Spring Cleaning" a little early, and far more fun than sorting cupboards and washing windows!

So, to start this month's challenge, I've chosen one of my favorite flower stencils, Wisteria (LG725). Place the stencil on neutral card stock, anchor the stencil with a few small pieces of removable tape, and apply color to the flower petals and leaves. Remove and clean the stencil and let the ink dry. Position the clean stencil over the inked image and move it about 1/4 to 1/2 inch to the left. Tape it in place as before, and color just the flowers in a lighter shade, as they will become the background. Remove and clean the stencil and let the ink dry. Finally, position the stencil over the flowers and leaves that you colored first. Tape all sides with removable tape, using the top piece of tape as a hinge. Apply Translucent Embossing Paste (DEPT). Remove and clean the stencil and let the paste dry. I've used ribbon and two colors of card stock for the mats, but the finishing touches are up to you, as long as it remains clean and simple. Couldn't be easier!

Now you have the opportunity to play along. Create your own Clean and Simple design (preferably with Dreamweaver Stencils' products) and link it to the Dream It Up! blog from your own blog, online gallery, or just send us an email (lynell@dreamweaverstencils.com) with your creation for us to show off on the blog. At the end of March, we will select two winners to win a set of these stencils each:

LJ899-Lrg. Thinking of You

LG742-Pointed Celtic Knot

For more inspiration, please visit the Dream Team blogs . . . and leave comments, we love that!

Dream It Up! blog
Pam Hornschu

Cyndi Bundy

Jessie Hurley

Curious as to the winners of last month's challenge? Anne Temple won for the best version of the challenge, and Sue Petersen won for the best use of Dreamweaver Stencils' product for the challenge! Congrats, ladies! Thanks for playing with us, and we hope to see more from all of our previous players!

Happy crafting,
Li

Go Green or Go Bragh Final February Post

2012-02-23T03:06:00.000-08:00

And I've decided to use the Go Green approach or, in this case, mostly green! We've not had a lot of rain in the Bay Area this winter and while today's warm and sunny 70º was heavenly, I was not pleased at having to resume a regular watering schedule! So here you have it: an umbrella-full of four-leaf clovers with a much-needed raindrop background.

Here's what you'll need to get started: Rain (LJ905), Umbrella (LG737), and Clover (LS58) stencils, inks (Tsukineko's Splendor inks are a good choice), and card stock of your choice. Begin by dry-embossing the raindrops background stencil on white card stock and set aside. Place the umbrella stencil on white card stock and, using a stencil brush, apply color to the image. Do the same for the clovers, coloring as many as you need to fill the umbrella. I chose five, but a couple more, piled on top of the others, would give it a filled to the brim look. Cut out the umbrella and clovers and assemble. That's all there is to it. Note: Before gluing the stencils, I gently rolled three of the petals to give them some dimension; the fourth petal got a bit of adhesive on the back before tucking into the umbrella.

Don't forget – you still have time to join in the February challenge. Link your project with Mr. Linky on the Dreamweaver Stencils blog, Dream it UP! by the end of the month and you might be the lucky winner of two fabulous stencils. Check it out. And, in the meantime, check out the other Dream Team blogs for more ideas and inspiration.

Pam Hornschu

Laura Drahozal

Louise Healy

Wendy Jordan

Terrece Siddoway

Kristi Van Doren

Georgia Sommers

Lee Kellogg

Liz Martin

Cyndi Bundy

Cherylynn Moser

Jessie Hurley

See you next week,

Liz

Another Take on Going Green

2012-02-16T07:40:00.000-08:00

Welcome back to another Dream Scheme Thursday. We were given a lot of latitude on this month's "green" challenge – it could be a St. Patrick's Day theme, the color green, or the reduce, reuse, recycle take on "going green." You also need to know that I have a rather large box of items that fit into the "Oh, I could use this for a __(fill in the blank)__ project." At the moment, there are a lot of metal tea containers waiting to begin their second life as, in today's project, a colored pencil holder for my desk.

Here we go!

I began by measuring the can and cutting the green colored aluminum to size.   I would usually run the stencil (the newly released Pinwheel Checkerboard LX7013) and metal through an embossing machine, but I wanted the metal to have more dimension so I placed it on a softer surface that would allow me to push the metal (colored side down) through the stencil holes a little more. I tried a number of different surfaces and ended up with a thin piece of very dense foam. With a paper stump, I rubbed the back of the metal pushing it through the openings in the stencil, giving more definition. The final step is to turn the metal over and lightly sand it to remove the green color from the raised areas.

To adhere the metal to the container, you'll need to use a strong adhesive, like the red line tape. There are different kinds on the market, but you get the idea. Tape all four sides, position it on the container and fill with pencils, or whatever it is you need to store. You could also decorate the lid, fill it with green jelly beans, and give it to someone for St. Patrick's Day. There are a lot of beautiful background stencils (LX size) to choose from and the possibilities are endless.   Sanding off the color is just one technique; don't forget about the Color Solutions alcohol inks . . . they're perfect for coloring on metal.

For more ideas and inspiration, check out the Dream Team blogs below. You're sure to find something to get the creative juices flowing.   And when you've finished your project, be sure to link it using Mr. Linky to the Dreamweaver blog, Dream it Up! There are prizes to be won at the end of the month, you know!

Pam Hornschu
Laura Drahozal
Louise Healy
Wendy Jordan
Terrece Siddoway
Kristi Van Doren
Georgia Sommers
Lee Kellogg
Liz Martin. . . you're here
Cyndi Bundy
Cherylynn Moser
Jessie Hurley

See you next week,

Liz

Dreamweaver's February Challenge

2012-02-09T00:26:00.000-08:00

This month's challenge – St. Patrick's Day and/or the color green – continues and we encourage you to play along as many time as you like. The lucky winner will receive these two lovely stencils.

And don't forget . . . all those that played along last month were winners! Check out the Dreamweaver blog to see for yourself.

For this week's post I chose the double glitter
technique along with the newly released Cherry
Blossom shape (LL3024), and it's super simple. Here we go: begin by adhering one side of the double-sided mounting paper (MPDS) to card stock. Leave the protective covering on the top side until you are ready to position your stencil. Rub the back side of the stencil with Handmade Hawaiian Coconut Soap (DHHS), making sure to cover the entire stencil. This will keep the stencil from making a tight bond with the adhesive. Carefully brush the soap "crumbs" from the stencil openings, making sure not to bend the stencil. Remove the protective paper from the double sided mounting paper and position your stencil, soap side down. Now the fun begins. I used Glitter Ritz Microfine glitter in Grasshopper and Black. Hint: save those straws from the drive-through. They can be re-purposed as glitter dippers. Cut a 3-4" piece and angle one end to make a little scoop. Use it to pick up small amounts of black glitter and apply it to the center of the blossom. Tap off the excess and rub the glitter in with your finger. Brush off all remaining black glitter. Now, place the piece stencil side down on a flat surface and while holding the stencil down with your fingers, begin lifting the paper off of the stencil, "walking" your fingers over the stencil as you remove the paper. This will keep the stencil from bending. Apply the grasshopper glitter and rub it in with your finger. Cut out the image. You may be about to see a faint outline of the image; if not, replace the stencil and trace along the outside edges. Adhere the cut images to your card front and you're done!

Want more ideas and inspiration? Check out the rest of the Dream Team blogs. Then, link your project using Mr. Linky on Dreamweaver's Dream it Up! blog.

Pam Hornschu
Laura Drahozal
Louise Healy
Wendy Jordan
Terrece Siddoway
Kristi Van Doren
Georgia Sommers
Lee Kellogg
Liz Martin. . . you're here
Cyndi Bundy
Cherylynn Moser
Jessie Hurley

See you next week,
Liz

Dreamweaver's February Challenge

2012-02-02T03:37:00.000-08:00

Whew! We're back from CHA and did we have a blast! It was three days (for me; I didn't stay for the final day of the show) filed with demonstrations, make and takes, and seeing lots of friends. It was also a good time for the design team, minus Terrece, whom we dearly missed, to spend time together and share a lot of laughs.

But now we're home and it's time to get on with the February challenge, which is to create something using a St. Patrick's Day theme or the color green or both. You'll have the entire month to submit your project on Dreamweaver's Dream it Up! blog. Here's what I've done:

I embossed the Pinwheel Checkerboard (LX7013) and the Shamrock (LS58) stencils on to two shades of the Tim Holtz Kraft-Core Nostalgic Collection paper from Core'dinations using a die cut machine. Lightly sand both pieces and trim to size. The shamrocks were edged in gold with a Krylon Gold Leaf pen.

Be sure to visit design team blogs listed below for more ideas and inspiration. When you've finished your project, but sure to link it to the Dream it Up! blog using Mr. Linky. We can't wait to see what you've done. Here you go:

Laura Drahozal

Louise Healy

Wendy Jordan

See you next week,

Liz

Day 5 of Sneak Peeks

2012-01-27T02:58:00.000-08:00

Well, here it is, the last day of sneak peeks before we all head off to CHA. I hope you've enjoyed this busy week and that we've provided ideas and inspiration for you to try out these new stencils. Here's what I've made for today's post. Valentine's day is just a few weeks away and this is an easy way to make a lot of cards.

It's a little hard to see, but I used the Big Dots (LX7011) stencil and translucent embossing paste on several pieces of red and white card stock. I also paste embossed the Heart stencil (LS80) with glossy red embossing paste. When all the pieces were dry, I cut the dots on red paper into single strips, the white into a double row. I then matted it on to red card stock and positioned it on to the card base with the red strips on each side. Carefully cut out three red hearts and position them on to the white dotted paper. And you're done. And you'll have several smaller strips left over to make tags or smaller note cards.

Here are the links to my Dream Team sisters' blogs. Be sure to check out what they've made for you.

Pam Hornschu
Laura Drahozal
Louise Healy
Wendy Jordan
Terrece Siddoway
Kristi Van Doren
Georgia Sommers
Lee Kellogg
Liz Martin. . . you're here
Cyndi Bundy
Cherylynn Moser
Jessie Hurley

See you next week,

Liz

Sneak Peek Day Four

2012-01-26T02:00:00.000-08:00

The countdown to CHA continues with Day Four of the Dreamweaver Stencils Sneak Peek. There's a great variety of styles in this release and today I'm showing you the cute mushroom stencil (LL3025).

I began by paste embossing the stencil with matte black embossing paste. When that was dry, I repositioned the clean stencil over the image and spread crackle paste over the entire surface. As it dries, the fine cracks begin to appear in the white paste allowing the black matte paste to show through. When the crackle paste had dried, I again positioned the clean stencil over the image and colored to my heart's content.

There's more to see and be inspired by on the blogs listed below, so be sure to check them out.

Pam Hornschu
Laura Drahozal
Louise Healy
Wendy Jordan
Terrece Siddoway
Kristi Van Doren
Georgia Sommers
Lee Kellogg
Liz Martin. . . you're here
Cyndi Bundy
Cherylynn Moser
Jessie Hurley

See you tomorrow for the last peek.

Happy crafting,

Liz

Day Three

2012-01-24T22:18:00.000-08:00

Can you stand to see more? There are 17 new stencils being released this weekend and each one is better than the last. Here we go with today's sneak peek.

This is the gorgeous Tall Poppy stencil (LL3023). Reminiscent of the fluid floral lines of the Art Nouveau period, I immediately fell in love with it at first sight. In keeping with the theme, I knew there would be no glitter, but I needed something to make the image pop. Glossy black embossing paste worked perfectly, along with a William Morris-like printed paper. This is an extremely versatile stencil and I have more ideas to work on. But that will be for another post. In the meantime, check out the other Dream Team blogs and let us know what ideas come to you while you're blog surfing. Here are the links to the other fab designers:

Pam Hornschu
Laura Drahozal
Louise Healy
Wendy Jordan
Terrece Siddoway
Kristi Van Doren
Georgia Sommers
Lee Kellogg
Liz Martin. . . you're here
Cyndi Bundy
Cherylynn Moser
Jessie Hurley

Happy crafting,
Liz

Sneak Peek Day Two

2012-01-24T00:33:00.000-08:00

Welcome back for Day Two of our winter release sneak peek. For those of you who are making your first visit, each day this week the Dream Team will be showcasing projects made with the 17 new stencils being released this weekend at the Craft and Hobby Association's winter show in Anaheim, California. Be sure to check out yesterday's posts so you won't miss a thing! Now, let's see. Which stencil shall I show you today?

It's Paisleys (LX7009)! I embossed the stencil with glossy white embossing paste. When that was dry, I repositioned the clean stencil and, using a large dauber, applied a light layer of Palette's Stamp and Stick adhesive. Then came the fun part, applying all the gorgeous colors of Metallic F/X. I chose to keep my colors on the soft side, but the variations are endless. The Thank You stencil (LS1009) is pasted with Glossy Black embossing paste and matted with coordinating card stock.

Reminder: For those of you playing along with the January challenge, there's one week left to go. You have until January 31st, 11:59 PM EST, to post and link your creation(s) to the Dream It Up! Blog Mr. Linky. The winners will be announced February 2nd, along with the February challenge.

Be sure check out what the rest of the team has been working on

Pam Hornschu
Laura Drahozal
Louise Healy
Wendy Jordan
Terrece Siddoway
Kristi Van Doren
Georgia Sommers
Lee Kellogg
Liz Martin. . . you're here
Cyndi Bundy
Cherylynn Moser
Jessie Hurley

See you tomorrow,

Liz

Countdown to CHA is finally here . . .

2012-01-23T02:24:00.000-08:00

I'm so excited you'd think it was Christmas. Well, in a way it is, because opening a box from Dreamweaver Stencils holds as much fun and anticipation as opening presents on Christmas Eve. And this week, we get to post sneak peeks of the new stencils to be released at the Craft and Hobby Association's winter show beginning January 29.

Before I got my box of goodies, word got out that there were cat stencils. I couldn't wait! These are the cutest kitties around:

In addition to the Retro Sitting Cat (LL3020) stencil, I used the new Waves and Dots (LX7012) for the background of the first card, and the new Thank You (LS1009) for the second.

If you want more, check the rest of the Dream Team blogs. We'll be posting new designs all week long.

Pam Hornschu

Laura Drahozal
Louise Healy
Wendy Jordan
Terrece Siddoway
Kristi Van Doren
Georgia Sommers
Lee Kellogg
Liz Martin. . . you're here
Cyndi Bundy
Cherylynn Moser
Jessie Hurley

See you tomorrow with another sneak peek!

Happy crafting,

Liz

A Fragrant Valentine

2012-01-18T23:51:00.000-08:00

Here's a little something that will last long after the flowers and candy are gone . . . fragrant sachets filled with lavender and decorated with a glittery heart. And they couldn't be easier to make.

Begin with a trip to your local craft store for the organdy bags. You'll find them in the wedding section. To keep the organdy bag from slipping and sliding, place a piece of card stock inside. Trace the open Heart stencil (LS80) on to Double Stick Mounting Paper. Cut it out, remove the protective layer on one side and adhere it to the organdy bag. Remove the remaining piece of protective paper and cover with glitter. I like to use Glitter Ritz Microfine Glitter as it adheres well and doesn't rub off. Tap off the excess glitter then rub the glittered heart with your finger. Remove the card stock stiffener and fill the bag with dried lavender, a fragrant potpourri or, if you use a larger bag, Hershey's kisses or other small candies fit just fine. Pull the strings and tie into a knot or bow, depending on the length of the ribbon. And there you have it.

There's still time to submit a project for this month's challenge. Check here for the details and then link your project to Dreamweaver's Dream it Up! blog using Mr. Linky. For more inspiration, check the rest of the Dream Team blogs:

Pam Hornschu
Laura Drahozal
Louise Healy
Wendy Jordan
Terrece Siddoway
Kristi Van Doren
Georgia Sommers
Lee Kellogg
Liz Martin. . . you're here
Cyndi Bundy
Cherylynn Moser
Jessie Hurley

BUT WAIT, THERE'S MORE. The Dream Team is going to the winter Craft and Hobby Association trade show where 16 – that's right, 16 – new stencil designs will be released. We're so excited about them we're going to be showing sneak peeks beginning this coming Monday, January 23. Then, every day throughout the week, there will be a post showcasing a new design. These stencils are so much fun to work with, I can't wait to show you.

So don't wait until next Thursday to stop by, 'cause if you do, you'll have missed all the fun and excitement of the earlier sneak peeks.

See you Monday,
Liz

Hearts and Flowers

2012-01-12T00:54:00.000-08:00

What better way to say Happy Valentine's Day than with hearts and flowers . . . and CANDY? And here's the perfect card to go with those yummy chocolates.

Begin by paste embossing the Floral Heart stencil (LG712) white embossing paste (DEP). When the paste is dry, position the clean stencil over the image and color to your heart's content. I used a variety of inks (mostly Splendor Inks by Tsukineko), Metallic F/X and Metallic Gelly Roll pens by Sakura, to achieve the desired results. Give the ink ample time to dry before cutting out the image. Prepare your card base and mat, add ribbon and image and you're done!

And don't forget . . . there's still time to play along with the January challenge. For the month of January, we challenge you to create something for Valentine's Day. You have until January 31st, 11:59 PM EST, to post and link your creation(s) to the Dream It Up! blog Mr. Linky. The winners will be announced February 2nd, along with the February challenge.

Need more inspiration? Please visit the rest of our fabulous team:

Pam Hornschu
Laura Drahozal
Louise Healy
Wendy Jordan
Terrece Siddoway
Kristi Van Doren
Georgia Sommers
Lee Kellogg
Liz Martin. . . you're here
Cyndi Bundy
Cherylynn Moser
Jessie Hurley

See you next week,
Liz

Something new for 2012

2012-01-04T23:38:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the first posting of the Dreamweaver Stencils' Dream Team 2012 ! We're changing things up a bit for this year, and YOU can help. The first Thursday of every month will feature a new challenge that will extend throughout the entire month. This means that YOU have ALL month to play along with the one challenge, as many times as you want. Sometimes it will be a color challenge, sometimes a theme, and sometimes a technique. We are hoping that an entire month will give you plenty of time to be inspired, create, and link to the Dream It Up! blog . Each month we are offering TWO prizes . . . one for the most creative version of the challenge (does not have to be Dreamweaver Stencils' product, but we sure are happy when it is!), and the second for the best use of Dreamweaver Stencils' product in the challenge. This could be stencils (of course), Embossing Pastes , Metallic F/X , the new Color Solutions – anything you find on the Dreamweaver Stencils' web site, or in your local store. Don't know where your local store is? The list can be found on the web site. Not near any of the stores listed? There is an online site to purchase from, Stencil with Style!

For the month of January, we challenge you to create something for Valentine's Day! You have until January 31st, 11:59 PM EST, to post and link your creation(s) to the Dream It Up! Blog Mr. Linky. The winners will be announced February 2nd, along with the February challenge. Here is my version of this month's challenge:

I made a lot of single panel pocket cards for the holidays and decided to carry the theme through to Valentine's Day. I began by paste embossing the Heart Swirls stencil (LL567) on glossy card stock with Glossy White Embossing Paste. In order to make a top hinge so that you can open the heart and leave a love note, fold the glossy card stock and position the stencil so that the top of the design is at the edge of the fold. When the paste is dry, apply Winter Red and Gold Star Color Solutions using a felt square attached to your applicator tool. Carefully cut around the folded heart, punch a hole at the top and add ribbon. As an added touch, you could line the inside of your heart with pale pink paper or just ink the edge with whatever ink is left on your applicator tool moistened with a bit of blending solution. Using your favorite papers, cut two contrasting pieces: one 4.25" x 5.5" and one 4.25" x 3.25". I edged both pieces with a Krylon Pale Gold Leafing Pen before attaching them to a 4.25 x 5.5" card stock panel. And you're done!

Need more inspiration? Please visit the rest of our fabulous team:

Pam Hornschu
Laura Drahozal
Louise Healy
Wendy Jordan
Terrece Siddoway
Kristi Van Doren
Georgia Sommers
Lee Kellogg
Liz Martin. . . you're here
Cyndi Bundy
Cherylynn Moser
Jessie Hurley

Happy Crafting,

Liz

Its time to celebrate . . .

2011-12-29T07:13:00.000-08:00

I love Christmas but for me, December 31 is a special time for remembering the past and celebrating the hopes and expectations of the New Year. And there's a card for it, too. This is one of my favorite multi-purpose designs. I've used it as an invitation to a New Year's Eve party, a panel card with the date, time and place printed on the back. And, by changing the stamped image on the front, as a New Year's greeting for someone I had neglected to send a Christmas card to.

Here's what to do: paste the Fireworks stencil (LJ886) with translucent embossing paste. Remove the stencil and let the paste set for a few minutes. Then sprinkle ultra fine silver and gold glitter randomly over the slightly tacky paste and set aside to dry. When the paste has dried, cut to size, adhere to mat and add ribbon. Stamp sentiment or image, mat and adhere to card front. If you're using this as an invitation, print information on card stock. Cut it slightly larger than your mat and adhere to the back of the stenciled design.

This year has been a wonderful ride with the Dream Team and there are new and exciting things coming next week when our three new members, Cyndi Bundy, Jessie Hurley, and Cherylynn Moser begin posting. So get the year off to a good start and mark your calendars for Dream Scheme Thursdays. We look forward to seeing you! In the meantime, join the rest of us in celebrating the New Year by checking out the Dream Team blogs (listed on the right) and leaving us a note.

Happy New Year,
Liz

HAPPY HOLIDAYS, EVERYONE

2011-12-22T08:08:00.000-08:00

Our color challenge this week was to use burgundy and gold and I immediately new that the Christmas Script stencil (LL3009) would be perfect for my card. And it's a snap to put together.

Paste emboss the stencil with metallic gold paste. When dry, cut to size, and mat on ivory Stardream paper. Cut larger mat and add ribbon and tie the bow before adhering to card base. Adhere Christmas Script matted piece and you're done. Note: I used a wired gold ribbon, which is not post-office friendly. If you're going to mail your card, remove the wires before tying the bow and it will flatten nicely when you put it in the envelope.

With Christmas just days away, I know there's more on the "To Do" list than there are hours in the day, but be sure to check out the Dreamweaver blog, DREAM it UP! Lynell is announcing the new Dream Team members and you'll want to be sure to check out their blogs and add them to your blog reader so you can follow along each week as we continue our Thursday posts. And there's more to see from the rest of the Dream Team – check out their blogs by clicking on the links on the right.

Wishing you all the best this holiday season, and my thanks for following our blogs (and hopefully playing along with the challenges) this past year. If you have yet to join a challenge, why not make it a New Year's resolution? You'll find once you start, you're hooked!

All the best this holiday season to you and your family.
Happy crafting,
Liz

Dream Scheme Sketch Challenge

2011-12-15T00:23:00.000-08:00

Today's sketch is brought to you by Dream Teamer Pam, with the added instruction to make it a "vintage Christmas." Here's the sketch

And my card

There are very few products you'll need to pull this card together. Begin by dry embossing the poinsettia stencil (LG700) on to red Core'dinations paper using a personal die cut machine, such as a BIGkick, BIGshot, Cuttlebug or Vagabond. You'll need to use the "sandwich" that works best in your machine, but we find that putting the stencil directly on the base plate, then layering paper, silicone embossing mat and two new cutting plates (used only for embossing) is the best way to keep your stencil from bending. Spritz the back of your card stock with rubbing alcohol or water to loosen the fibers and get a better impression. The advantage to using rubbing alcohol is that it dries a little faster than water, though either will give the intended result. Rub the front of the paper with a sanding block to give the image more definition. You can see a lot more shading in the original, which didn't come through as well in the photo. Trim the image and cut into three equal sections. Adhere to green card stock. Adhere patterned paper to solid red card stock and tie a bow. Stamp sentiment. Adhere poinsettia panel to patterned paper and adhere to card base.

That's all there is to it. Take a break and visit the other Dream Team blogs for more ideas and inspiration and then play along with us in this week's sketch challenge. You can link your project on the Dreamweaver blog, DREAM it UP! using Mr. Linky. We'd love to see what you've been working on.

It's ten days and counting and not nearly enough time to get everything done. So remember . . . there will be more holidays next year and what doesn't get finished in the next few days, will put you ahead of the game when December 2012 rolls around!

Happy crafting and Happy Holidays,
Liz

Designer's Choice on Dream Scheme Thursday

2011-12-08T07:59:00.000-08:00

Bright, shiny ornaments, twinkling lights, tinsel and GLITTER! What else could be more

Christmas-y? Today is designer's choice and this is one of my favorite stencils (OK, each stencil I work with is my favorite of the moment).

This card was made using the Long Stocking stencil (LL499) and the double glitter technique. Begin by adhering one side of the double-sided mounting tape (MPDS) to card stock. Leave the protective covering on the top side until you are ready to position your stencil. Rub the back side of the stencil with Handmade Hawaiian Coconut Soap (DHHS), making sure to cover the entire stencil. This will keep the stencil from making a tight bond with the adhesive. Carefully brush the soap "crumbs" from the stencil openings, making sure not to bend the stencil. Remove the protective paper from the double sided mounting paper and position your stencil, soap side down.

Now, here comes the fun part. I used Glitter Ritz micro fine glitter in Grasshopper, Regal Red, Dark Gold and Cool Highlight. To add glitter, I cut a straw in to 3" pieces and then cut one end at an angle to make a little scoop. This is perfect for getting into small areas. I began by applying red to the stripes and burnished it in with my finger. After tapping off the excess and returning it to the jar, I added the gold, burnished it, then added the green and burnished it, as well.

Place the glittered image, stencil side down, on a flat surface and begin removing the card stock. Be sure to move your fingers along the stencil as you peel back the card stock so that the stencil always remains flat and does not bend.

Lastly, apply the clear highlight glitter to the entire image and rub it in with your finger. Trim to the desired size and you're read to finish your card. I used several layers of mats and ribbon for mine, but the fun part is finding a patterned paper or embellishment in your stash you had forgotten about.

As the countdown to Christmas continues, check out the Design Team's posts (see the sidebar on the right) for more ideas and inspiration.

Happy crafting,
Liz

Dream Scheme Color Challenge

2011-12-01T01:57:00.000-08:00

I know it comes around this time every year, but I still can't believe it is December 1! There are still some cards to be made, so for today's color challenge, I've made a holiday card in non-traditional colors. I hope you like it.

Here's what you will need:
Stencils: Let it Snow (LG717) and
Ice Skates (LL3016)
Metallic Silver Embossing Paste (DSP)
Silver Metal (AC14)
Clear Glitter
Palette Knife (DPK)
Removable Tape (RMT)

to make this card:

Position the Let it Snow stencil on card stock; tape each edge; and paste emboss with Metallic Silver Embossing paste. Carefully remove the stencil and while the paste is still wet, sprinkle clear glitter over the surface and tap off the excess. While the paste is drying, carefully wash the stencil and palette knife.

Dry emboss the ice skates stencil on the silver metal by hand or with a personal die cutting machine. Carefully remove the stencil. To help retain a sharp image, spread Mercart's Filling Paste or Dreamweaver's matte white embossing paste over the back of the embossed metal. Mat and layer each piece as desired and you're done. Another card ready to mail.

Don't forget to visit the other Designer's blogs to see their take on the turquoise and silver colorway challenge. And while you're at the Dreamweaver blog, DREAM it UP!, let us see your project by linking it using Mr. Linky. We love to see all the great work that's out there.

See you next week.

Happy Holiday Crafting,
Liz

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T03:25:00.000-08:00

If you're taking a break from family, dinner dishes and football, you couldn't have come to a better place. The Dreamweaver team is sending Thanksgiving wishes to you, our faithful readers. Sit back and take a look at what we've been working on.

Begin by paste embossing the Cornucopia stencil (LL529) with regular embossing paste (DEP). When the paste has dried, reposition the clean stencil over the card and color to your heart's content. Add your sentiment, embellishment and layer on your choice of patterned paper. Adhere to card stock and you're done!

This is a very short post, but I do want to remind you to be sure to visit the Dream Team blogs for more ideas and inspiration, and don't forget – there's still time to submit an application for the Dreamweaver Stencils Design Team Call. You can get the details here.

Thank you, thank you, thank you for being such faithful followers. We love hearing from you (and the attention), so don't be shy . . . leave us a note and let us know you've stopped by.

Happy thanksgiving to all,
Liz

It's Sketch Challenge Thursday!

2011-11-17T04:54:00.000-08:00

Welcome to another fabulous Dreamweaver Stencil Sketch Challenge. Today's sketch is brought to you by Wendy

Here are the products I used and the card I made . . .

Tape the Candy Cane stencil (LL555) to cream card stock with removable tape. Apply Glossy Red embossing paste with a palette knife. Remove the tape; wash and dry stencil and palette knife. While the paste is drying, cut patterned paper (Stampin' Up) to size and adhere strip of paper diagonally to the lower part of the card. When the paste is dry, trim pasted image to size and mat on solid red card stock. Adhere three dots to the upper right and you're done. Couldn't be easier for this busy time of the year.

There is a lot more inspiration coming from my fellow team mates, so don't forget to check out their blogs, as well as the Dreamweaver Stencils blog, DREAM it UP! Once you've hopped around to the other blogs, get your stencils out and play along with us. Link your project on the DREAM it UP! blog using Mr. Linky and let us see what you've made.

And, don't forget the Design Team Call. You can read all about it here. But you'd better get busy if you want to make the December 1 deadline. Come on! You can do it.

Happy crafting,
Liz

Designer's Choice Project

2011-11-10T06:30:00.000-08:00

Now that the Christmas cards are done (yeah, right!), it's time to think about teacher gifts, stocking stuffers, or something to have on hand for that last minute hostess gift. This covered note pad can be easily broken down into steps, making final assembly as easy as pumpkin pie.

In addition to the products on the left, you'll need plain card stock, removable tape, a palette knife or paste spreader, inks to coordinate with your patterned paper and adhesive or sticky tape (you can see a bit of it poking out from under the jar of embossing paste).

Because of the drying time, I began by paste embossing the Hibiscus stencil (LG678) with regular white matte embossing paste (DEP) on Neenah Natural White card stock. This is a good time to use Lynell's power pasting technique which she demonstrates on the Embossing Paste Techniques for Artful Cardmaking DVD. When the past was dry, I repositioned the cleaned stencil and applied color. I also inked the edges to make the image stand out. Tearing the edges or using decorative scissors are also options for a different look.

Preparing the tablets: the chipboard backing on the mini tablets was a little flimsy, so I cut a thinner piece of chipboard to size and attached it using sticky tape. I also needed to cover the Staples logo, so I cut a scrap of patterned paper to fit the front, top and about an inch or so of the back of the tablet and adhered it using sticky tape.

Cut patterned paper to size and score. Exact measurements will vary depending on the size of notepad you choose. For this project, the mini tablets measured 3.5" x 5.25" and cut the patterned paper 5.25" x 7.75". The 7.75 inches is a bit longer than the actual notebook measurements to allow enough "overage" for scoring. If there's a little hanging over the front and back edges, you can always trim it later.

The paper I chose is a double-sided, light-weight card stock, which some might call layering weight. It is not heavy enough to score without tearing, so I cut another piece to match and glued the two together. And, I didn't like the pattern on the reverse, so gluing the two pieces together solved both problems! If you find heavier weight patterned paper, you can eliminate pasting two lighter-weight pieces together. Score patterned paper to fit tablet.   My tablet was 1/4" thick, so my score lines were at 3.75" and 4". Remember, the front might hang over the tablet edge a bit, but that's OK. You can trim it before attaching the ribbon. If you're unsure of this step, make a sample using a manila file folder or other paper similar in weight to your patterned paper.

Cut ribbon strips to whatever size suits your project.

Assembly:   Attach one ribbon strip to the back of the tablet using sticky tape. Attach the back cover, again using sticky tape, and fold the patterned paper to the front, creasing along the score lines. Attach the second piece of ribbon to the front. Position the image as desired, over the ribbon end.   Tie ribbon into a knot or bow.

A cellophane bag is the perfect wrapping. And there you have it. Ready to be tucked into a Christmas stocking or placed in the gift box to be given away later.

Now, there's a lot more to see and plenty of inspiration from my fellow bloggers, so please stop by and see what they've been working on. And leave us a note – we love hearing from you.   Be sure to check out the details for design team call on the DREAM it UP! blog. There's till time to submit your application by the November 30 deadline.

Whew! That, I think, is my longest post!

Happy Crafting,
Liz

Dream Scheme Color Challenge

2011-11-03T03:18:00.000-07:00

There are so many options for a black and white color challenge – the possibilities are endless. So let's get to it. Here's what I did:

This is a combination of paste embossing and Zentangle-ing. For the middle pear, place the Pear stencil (LL563) with the Opto-Checkerboard stencil (LJ915) on top on white card stock and tape all edges. Apply Glossy Black Embossing Paste (DGKP) and let dry. For the remaining pears, I traced the Pear Stencil on to white card stock and began Zentangle-ing. If you're not familiar with Zentangle, it was developed by Rick Roberts and Maria Thomas, as "an easy to learn method of creating beautiful images from repetitive patterns." You can learn more about Zentangle here. Cut out each pear and assemble.

Get more ideas and inspiration from my talented team members (blog links on the right) and be sure to leave us a note and let us know you dropped by. It doesn't have to be long – a "just stopped by to say hi" is fine! We love hearing from you.

Now, if you've been following the Dream Team for the past year and a half, here's your chance to find out what it's like to be on a design team and how much fun we really have. Dreamweaver is having a design team call. You can find the details, time line and contact information on the DREAM it UP! blog.

And don't forget to "like" us on the Dreamweaver Facebook page.

Hope you have a wonderful weekend and have set aside some time for crafting.

See you next week,
Liz

Dream Scheme Sketch Challenge

2011-10-27T08:34:00.000-07:00

I'm not a big fan of Halloween, as some of my friends are. You won't find my house decorated with fake cobwebs (I have real ones), black cats with arched backs (again, why go for paper cut outs when you can have the real thing) or orange twinkle lights. I do, however, have some very realistic looking black rats that make an appearance about this time each year. Pumpkins and Indian corn are the extent of my Halloween decorating and, once the rats are gone, it's a smooth transition to Thanksgiving. If I'm lucky, the pumpkins will become pie; if not, they'll get spray painted gold and silver and with some glittery leaves and bows become front porch Christmas decorations.

Halloween cards are another matter. I love making and sending them almost as much as Christmas cards. And when there's a sketch challenge involved, it even gets better. Today's sketch comes from Dream Teamer Kim and my card, with artistic license, follows.

The Spider Web (LJ816) stencil is perfect for this background as it is easily cut into sections without diminishing the design. I paste embossed the stencil with Glossy Black Embossing Paste (DGKP) on to orange card stock. For the pumpkins, I used the three pumpkins from right end of the Long Pumpkins (LL514) stencil. After taping the stencil to cream colored card stock, I added color with Tsukineko's Splendor inks. To balance the image, I repositioned the stencil so the leaves on the top left of the stencil were at the top of the left pumpkin so it looks like the leaves are growing right off the stem. I cut the image to size, inked the edges with a coordinating color and mounted it on black card stock. I added ribbon (artistic license), put it all together and there you have it. Done just in time to get it in the mail!

There's lots more to see, so be sure to check our there rest of the Dream Team bloggers to see what treats they have in store for you. And be sure to play along with us and post your project on the DREAM it UP! blog. It's easy using Mr. Linky. See you next week.

Happy Halloween,

Liz

Designer's Choice on Dream Scheme Thursday

2011-10-20T04:50:00.000-07:00

I'm still playing with the pink and black colorway from last week's challenge, but this week I brought Dreamweaver's Color Solution, their new artist grade alcohol inks, to the party. They are so much fun to work with. The deeply saturated colors can easily be thinned with the alcohol blending solution and they stay wet just a touch longer so you have more time to work the colors to get the effect you're looking for. The 14 colors in the Autumn and Winter Palettes plus silver and gold should be arriving at your local scrapbook store soon. If you don't see them, just ask!

I began by paste embossing the Houndstooth (LJ913) and Heart Swirls (LL567) stencils with glossy white embossing paste (DGWP). When they were dry, I put a few drops of Color Solution Winter Red on the felt pad on the blending tool and a few drops of blending solution to lighten the color. Starting with the blending tool off the edge of the paper (be sure to use your craft mat when working with alcohol inks to protect your work surface), I began rubbing over the embossed surface in a circular motion, adding more ink and blender solution as needed. It is important to start off the edge of the card so there are no heavy blotches of color where you first put the blending tool on paper. The houndstooth background wasn't as light as I wanted, so I put a bit of blending solution on a clean felt pad and removed some of the ink from the embossing paste, letting it act as a resist, and removing just enough to leave a mottled look.

For the scroll heart, I added a few drops of gold to the ink on the felt pad to give a shimmery look and applied the color in the same manner as for the houndstooth background. The ribbon is also colored with the Winter Red ink and blending tool.

The embellishment pin (already the perfect shade of pink), was a bit too long, so I cut the end with wire cutters to keep it from poking out the bottom of the heart.

Now, on to the next project . . . I wonder how a Christmas card would look in pink and black?

Don't forget to visit the other Design Team blogs and be sure to leave us a note. It doesn't have to be long, just let us know you've stopped by. And be sure to visit the Dreamweaver blog, DREAM it UP! as there have been pink and black posts all week.

Happy crafting, and see you next week!
Liz

Dream Scheme Color Challenge

2011-10-13T07:28:00.000-07:00

Some days are better than others in the crafting world, and this week was heavenly. First of all, it was a color challenge week and the colors were pink and black – two of my favorites. And since I'm having a lot of fun with the background stencils right now, I couldn't pick just one, so you get the benefit of two cards.

For all cards, I used Glossy Black Embossing Paste (DGKP). For the card on the left, I pasted the Houndstooth (LJ913) and the large Hope (LL3018) stencils with glossy black embossing paste. To give the Hope image a softer touch, I replaced the clean stencil over the pasted image, applied glue from the Palette Stamp & Stick Gluepad (GSP) with a large dauber, and lightly dusted Metallic F/X Pink Blaze and Pixie Blush over the pasted image with a stencil brush. You can see some of the detail here, though the pinks are harder to see.

For the card on the right, I paste embossed the small Damask (LJ907) and Thanks (LS106) stencils with Glossy Black Embossing Paste. When the paste was dry, I trimmed the images, added ribbon, matted them on card stock and adhered them to a card base. Couldn't be easier.

Why not play along with us this week? First, stop by the Dreamweaver blog, DREAM it UP! and then check out the great projects the other design team members have made for you. Then, get out your stencils and whip up a card or two and post it on the Dreamweaver blog using the Mr. Linky tool. We'd love to see what you're working on.

And don't forget to leave us a note. We love reading your comments.

Happy crafting,
Liz

Celebrating Canadian Thanksgiving on Dream Scheme Thursday

2011-10-06T10:03:00.000-07:00

Warm wishes to all our Canadian friends who will be celebrating Thanksgiving on Monday. And in honor of Canadian Thanksgiving, I've chosen this card for our Designer's Choice Dream Scheme Thursday.

To begin, paste emboss the long pumpkin stencil (LL514) with the white embossing paste (DEP). When dry, reposition the clean stencil and apply color. I gathered all the inks I had in shades of yellow, orange, green and brown and went to work (mostly Splendor inks by Tsukineko). That was really a lot of fun. I then tore the edges, added a sentiment and string embellishment, mounted it on patterned paper and then on card stock edged in orange with a Copic marker.

This card is a little bit country, but with a bit of Metallic F/X on the leaves and pumpkin tops and different patterned paper, it could have a very different look. Which brings me to the tip of the day. I know most of you already know this, but it took me a while to translate the tips and tricks I developed in my day job to my paper crafting life. While you have your work station set up, paste a whole bunch of images at once (you'd be surprised how many places you can put them while they're drying!). Then, when you have another chunk of time set aside, do your coloring and take some time to experiment. Remember, there are no mistakes, only opportunities for making something different. Then, you're on to assembling the parts, having cut, torn, or otherwise prepared the various papers and embellishments ahead of time. And before you know it, you've got a card to send and one or more for the stash.

Products used (in addition to those listed above):
Card base: Neenah Natural White
Patterned paper: Autumn Spice, Stampin' Up
No brand named: twine, sentiment

Happy crafting,
Liz

It's Sketch Challenge Thursday!

2011-09-29T05:46:00.000-07:00

We are days away from October and we should be having fall-like weather, but yesterday's temperatures made you want to get back into the pool. The weather aside, we are heading into the fall/winter holidays and I heard someone mention last weekend that Christmas was 90 days away. Eeeeck! It's time to get busy with our holiday cards.

Today's sketch is by our Team Leader, Deborah March, and it's perfect for two of my favorite stencils (in truth, the stencil that I'm working with turns out to be that day's favorite!).

And here's my card

To begin, paste emboss the spider web (LJ816) and raven (LL3015) with glossy black embossing paste (DGKP), and set aside to dry. When dry, cut the spider web into quarters and adhere to patterned paper. Trim the raven, add coordinating mat, and adhere to the center of the card. Add punched trim to the side and you're done. One Halloween card done; many more to assemble.

I hope you've enjoyed today's sketch challenge. Be sure to stop by the other design team blogs (listed in the side bar) to see what they've been working on and please leave a comment. We love hearing from you. Then, why not play along with us this week? We'd love to see what your take on the sketch. Don't forget to post your creation on the DREAM it UP! blog using Mr. Linky.

See you next week,
Liz

Designer's Choice on Dream Scheme Thursday

2011-09-22T05:07:00.000-07:00

The calendar says tomorrow is the first day of Autumn, but you would never know it by the weather. We've had warm summer days in the 80s-90s with no fog, so maybe now those last few tomatoes will finally ripen.

For today's post, I wanted to do something in keeping with the seasons, the fall colors, the (hopefully) cooler weather, and that led me to this beautiful Japanese Maple stencil (LJ906). The warm orange-red colors of the leaves are a perfect reminder of the changing seasons. I was amazed at how quickly this card came together.

I dry embossed the stencil and, with the stencil still in place, applied several different inks from a pale yellow to a darker reddish brown to get the desired shading. There was a little too much white space for me, even after trimming the image to a smaller card size, so I punched a strip of patterned paper using EK Success Lattice Chain punch. Then, after carefully cutting around the outside edge of the leaves, I adhered the smaller piece to the left side of the card base, layered the punched piece on top, and then positioned the larger piece on the right side so that it fit the card with just a small bit of patterned paper showing in the background. Couldn't have been easier. Give it a try . . . I think you'll like it.

Since this is a "free" week, but sure to check the other Dream Team blogs for more ideas and inspiration. And don't forget to stop on over at the DREAM it UP! blog and leave us a note. We love hearing from you.

Happy crafting,
Liz

Dream Scheme Thursday Color Challenge

2011-09-15T05:17:00.000-07:00

Dream Teamer Lee Kellogg provided the colors for this week's challenge: lime green and gray. These are colors I'm not usually drawn to, but it's good for me to get out of my comfort zone and, as a result, I have lots of ideas to work on. Here's my card:

I never throw away paper scraps and, over time, I've collected quite a stash of photo paper. I've been playing with the scraps and find that they take well to a variety of inks. The background was made by dry-embossing photo paper with the Houndstooth stencil (LJ913), sanding the raised edges and applying Ranger's Distress Inks in Shabby Shutters and Pumice Stone with the applicator tool. When applying the inks, remember to begin with a circular motion off the edge of the paper and work toward the middle.

The Hot Air Balloon (LL3003) was dry-embossed on black metal and, again, the raised edges were sanded to expose the gray base. I used a Copic marker (New Leaf) to add color to the stencil and smoothed it out with the applicator tool.

The sentiment is from a set that most likely came from Michael's dollar bin; the brads are by Basic Gray.

There you have it. Be sure to check out the other Dream Team members' blogs, listed on the right, to see what they've been working on. And don't forget to let us see your work by linking to the Dreamweaver Stencils bog, DREAM it UP!

See you next week,
Liz

Designer's Choice on Dream Scheme Thursday

2011-09-08T06:27:00.000-07:00

WOW! If you followed along with us last week for the Dreamweaver/Woodware UK blog hop, you saw some amazing projects and techniques from the very talented design teams. So many ideas, so little time!

And in time, the holidays will be here before we know it. Every year I make elaborate plans, endless lists and time-lines so that, in theory, by early December, the tree will be trimmed, gifts wrapped, cards mailed (my design team sisters know how well that went last year) and I will be able to enjoy the holidays and not do all-nighters trying to get things done. Hope springs eternal, right? Well this year is no different, though I do have a head start on the cards. Here's what I'm talking about.

This newly released stencil (LX7003) is one of my favorites. For this card, I used the copper metallic embossing paste on ivory Stardream paper. Layer it with background papers of your choice and you're done. You could use any of the metallic embossing pastes and change background papers to complement the paste or you could cover the image with gold leaf.

Bonus: use Lynell's power pasting technique, demonstrated on the Embossing Paste Techniques for Artful Cardmaking DVD, for even faster pasting.

Happy crafting,
Liz

And the winner is . . . .

2011-09-05T02:15:00.000-07:00

#12 Daria who said "What fun! You did a fabulous job."

Congratulations, Daria. To collect your piece of Dreamweaver goodness, please send your mailing address to Lynell Harlow at lynell@dreamweaverstencils.com and she will send your prize.

Thanks to all who left comments. This has been an amazing week of hopping back and forth across the pond and I hope you've enjoyed it as much as we have. I've added the Woodware team's blogs to my Google reader, so you can be sure I'll be checking in frequently to see what other great ideas they're sharing. And please come back on Thursday for more Dreamweaver Dream Team projects.

Happy crafting,
Liz

Blog Hopping with the Dreamweaver and Woodware Design Teams

2011-08-29T20:14:00.000-07:00

The Dreamweaver design team is partying with the UK Woodware design team to bring you innovative ways to use our wonderful Dreamweaver Stencils and supplies all week long! By the end of the week, you'll have seen stencils used in inspiration ways you just couldn't have imagined, and you'll see that, although our stencils are wonderful for paper crafting, they have SO MANY other uses too. We'll have several posts a day for you, beginning today, Monday, August 29th, through Saturday, September 3rd. At the end of our celebration, each designer will randomly select a winner from all blog comments to receive a free Dreamweaver stencil. We look forward to you partying along with us.

Here's my entry for today. Garden party, anyone? For me, it's more like "gardening party," but who said you can't be stylish while pulling weeds?

Stenciling on straw couldn't be easier. I used the Black Eyed Susan stencil (LJ902) and blocked out the placement on the brim, using one or two flowers to fill in the blank spaces. Then, following my template, I applied white embossing paste to every other section. When that paste had dried, I paste embossed the remaining sections. The ribbon band was a piece of cake. Cut ribbon to fit and, starting at one end, paste emboss a single flower as many times as needed. Since you are only pasting one flower at a time, it's not necessary to wait for the first one to dry before starting on the next flower.

When dry, replace the stencil and apply Splendor Inks by Tsukineko in your desired colors. I attached the ribbon using fabric glue and added a bow to cover the two ends.

You can find all the supplies I used and more here and right here.

If you've just joined the hop, here are the designers who have posted today:
Debbie at http://debfs.blogspot.com
Deborah at http://upcyclingmylife.blogspot.com
Kristi at http://www.kristiscreativecafe.blogspot.com
Liz at http://blackcatsstudios.blogspot.com (you're here)

That's it for today. Come back tomorrow and start at Lynell's blog DREAM it UP! Lynell has also listed all of the hoppers on her blog, so it's a good place to go to if you get lost or miss a day (we know that won't happen, but just in case) and need to catch up.

I hope you've enjoyed the hopping with us and don't forget hop tomorrow through Saturday!

Happy Crafting,
Liz

Designer's Choice on Dream Scheme Thursday

2011-08-25T09:04:00.000-07:00

They've predicted a warming trend through the weekend, so of course my thoughts turn to cool drinks with lots and lots of ice. In the paper crafting world, that would be snowflakes and ice skates, using Dreamweaver's new ice skates stencil in shiny, icy silver metal. Take a look . . .

The background is the snowflake stencil (LJ819) paste embossed with translucent embossing paste. After removing and washing the stencil, I sprinkled clear glitter over the paste while it was still wet. After it was completely dry, I brushed off the excess glitter with a soft brush.

For the skates (LL3016), I dry embossed the metal first by running it through a personal die cutting machine and then, with the stencil still in place, went over the fine details with the small end of a stylus to give more definition. Then, I turned the embossed metal over and applied regular embossing paste to the back to keep the details crisp and dent-free. When dry, I cut it out and attached it to the snowflake panel.

Please be sure to visit the other team blogs listed on the sidebar on the right for more ideas and inspiration, and don't forget to stop by the Dreamweaver blog, DREAM it UP!

AND, SAVING THE BEST 'TIL LAST . . . a special blog hop begins next Monday where you will be seeing some very different kinds of projects. I won't say any more right now, just be sure to mark your calendar and check back next week to see what we've been working on.

Happy crafting,
Liz

Thursday Dream Schemes Color Challenge

2011-08-18T00:14:00.000-07:00

While working on this week's project, I realized I found the perfect Christmas stocking stuffer – bookmarks! No more grocery receipts, old envelopes or Post-it Notes to mark the page. My books will have style! Before I begin, let me also add that this week is a colorway challenge, so a big thank you goes to team member Wendy for the great colors of red, cream and kraft.

After dry embossing the tea cup (vertical) stencil (LL493), and with the stencil still in place, I added color using Tsukineko's Splendor inks. I distressed the edges with a file and added a bit more color to soften them. I assembled the layers, added a ribbon and there you have it. I couldn't believe how quickly this came together, and if you do the steps assembly-line fashion, you'll be done well before the holidays.

Now off you go to the other blogs to see more of the red, ivory, kraft colorway challenge. Leave us a note, letting us know what you think. We always like hearing from you.

Happy crafting,
Liz

It's Thursday . . .

2011-08-11T05:13:00.000-07:00

and that means it's a Dreamweaver Dream Scheme day – and designer's choice – and a new stencil just released. Whew!

This design is quickly becoming a favorite as it lends itself so well to masculine cards. I began by dry embossing the Gears stencil (LJ911) on to silver craft metal by running it through a die cutting machine. I experimented with other embossing methods (paper stump, stylus) and found that the die cutting machine provided the sharpest image. I then pasted the back of the stencil so the embossed areas would keep their shape. When the paste was dry, I sanded the front to give it a distressed look and then applied alcohol inks (Ranger and Copic) using a mix of brown and olive green colors and blended them with an applicator tool and felt pad. I know Father's Day has come and gone, but I had this sentiment (LM244) left over from another project and thought it was better to use it than lose it.

Thanks for stopping by. We love showing off our stencil projects! Don't forget to visit the other Dream Team blogs as well as the Dreamweaver Stencil blog, DREAM it UP! and leave us a note. We love hearing from you.

Happy Crafting,
Liz

It's Sketch Challenge Thursday!

2011-08-03T23:04:00.000-07:00

I love sketch challenges and I hope you'll play along with us. Here's the sketch:

And here's my card:

I used two of the new stencils just released at last week's CHA summer show, Herringbone (LJ914) and Cameo (LL3017). For the herringbone pattern, I spritzed the back of the stencil with Strawberry Daiquiri Memories Mist and placed it face up on the clear plastic cutting plate, then layered paper, and the remaining pads and plates to complete the "sandwich" and ran in through my BIGKick. (You will have to use the appropriate "sandwich" for your die cutting machine.) This produces a letterpress effect, which is quite popular now. When dry, I cut the sheet into four rectangles and rounded the corners. The cameo was paste embossed on Stardream Ivory paper with glossy black embossing paste. When dry, I cut a scalloped edge around the cameo. Ribbon and an embellishment pin were added before the cameo was attached. I'll add the sentiment when I know how I want to use the card. I love the letterpress look, and it's super easy with Memories Mist. I can wait to experiment with some of the other background stamps.

Have fun with this challenge and be sure to link your project to the Dreamweaver blog, DREAM it UP! via Mr. Linky. And don't forget to visit the other Dream Team blogs to see what special projects they've been working on. You'll get lots of ideas and inspiration.

Happy Crafting,
Liz

Thursday Dream Schemes Celebrates Christmas in July

2011-07-28T01:56:00.000-07:00

I'm so glad this is a designer's choice week because I am LOVIN' the summer 2011 Dreamweaver Stencil release. Now, I know it's hard to think of the holidays while parts of the country are experiencing unbearably high temperatures, but staying cool by the air conditioner is a great way to get a head start on your holiday projects. And, as an added bonus, embossing pastes dry a lot faster when it's hot!

I began by paste embossing the holly stencil, LJ917 with Glossy Green embossing paste on Stardream gold card stock. On Stardream cream card stock I embossing just the sentiment with Glossy Red embossing paste. When dry, I cut the sentiment to size, attached it to the card and added ribbon. While I'm a fan of the clean and simple style, I think red glitter dots scattered randomly on the holly berries might be a nice touch of bling. That's all there is to it. This is an easy card to make and with power pasting technique found on Dreamweaver Stencil's Embossing Paste Techniques for Artful Cardmaking DVD, you can make multiples in no time.

Be sure to check the other blogs for more projects using the new stencils and be sure to stop by in the coming weeks to see why we're so excited about these awesome stencils.

Happy crafting,

Liz

Thursday Dream Scheme Monochromatic Color Challenge

2011-07-21T03:11:00.000-07:00

Whew! That's a long title. But the fun is just beginning. Get out your favorite stencils, papers, inks or pastes and embellishments and play along with us for today's color challenge.

Picking a color was probably the hardest part because there were so many I wanted to use. I began by attaching the Large Flourish stencil (LJ896) to paper and adding color using Splendor Inks by Tsukineko and a large sponge dauber, which worked better than a stencil brush for this particular application. I positioned Thanks (LS1006) on cream card stock and applied the ink again, using the dauber. The ribbon began as a piece of cream colored sheer, but didn't look quite right, so out came the inks and dauber and voila! – color coordinated ribbon.

Check out the other blogs for more inspiration and don't forget to stop at the Dreamweaver Stencils blog, DREAM it UP! and link your project using Mr. Linky. I can't wait to see what color you chose.

Happy Crafting,
Liz

Woo Hoo It's Sketch Challenge Thursday!

2011-07-14T06:52:00.000-07:00

Our sketch today is courtesy of team leader, Deborah March, and is so much fun to work with.

Here's what I did

It's a quick and easy card to make. Just emboss the Baby Shoes (LL327) with copper embossing paste, let dry and cut to size. Add sentiment and embellishments and you're done.

Play along with us this week and link your creation to Dreamweaver Stencil's blog, DREAM it UP! so we can all see what you've done. And don't forget to visit the other blogs for some great projects and inspiration.

Happy crafting,
Liz

I scream, you scream

2011-07-07T04:41:00.000-07:00

. . . you all know how the saying goes. Summer and ice cream just go together and one of my favorite hostess gifts for summer BBQs is a do-it-yourself ice cream sundae kit. I put two sundae dishes, an assortment of toppings and a gift certificate from a local ice cream store in a basket, wrap it with cellophane, and add a big bow to make it festive. Taking my inspiration from Dream Team member Lee Kellogg, the Queen of Tags, and one of my favorite Dreamweaver stencils, here's the finishing touch:

I used the double glitter technique with the Sundae stencil (LL431), and began by adhering double-sided mounting paper to white card stock. After soaping the back of the stencil with Handmade Hawaiian Coconut Soap, I removed the protective paper from the double-sided mounting paper and placed the stencil on it. I applied Glitter Ritz Microfine glitter in bronze, regal red, pink, sea foam and stardust to the exposed areas of the stencil and rubbed it in. Handy tip: make a glitter scoop by first cutting a straw into 3-4 inch pieces and then cutting one end at a very shallow angle to make the scoop. It's just the right size for getting into small areas. I cut the image out and adhered it to white card stock cut with the largest Nestabilities Labels Four die. Add ribbon and it's ready to be tied to the basket.

For more fun and inspiration, be sure to stop by the other Dream Team blogs. It's Designer's Choice this week and there will be a lot of good ideas to get your creative juices flowing, starting with the Dreamweaver Stencil's blog, DREAM it UP!

Happy crafting,
Liz

It's a Red, White and Blue Star Spangled Blog Hop

2011-07-02T02:25:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the 4th of July blog hop. There's a lot going on and you don't want to miss it. First of all, a big thank you to Taylor Usry for putting this fantastic weekend together. There are lots of blogs to visit and you can be a lucky winner of some amazing blog candy, just by leaving a comment.

But first, here's my card . . .

I began by applying glossy white embossing paste to the Fireworks stencil (LJ886). After carefully removing the stencil and placing it in a pan of water for cleaning, I applied gold, red, silver and blue glitter to the center of each firework burst, being careful not to cover the entire area. I then applied translucent glitter to the remaining areas so that all of the paste was covered. The sentiment is from Stampin' UP! and the tag is edged with a gold Marvy paint marker.

Now, for the Blog Hop details: Blog Hop participants are listed below. You'll want to visit as many as possible and leave a comment on each one. You have until Tuesday, July 5th at 6:00 pm, EST, to comment on as many blogs as you can. Winners will be drawn from random comments on blogs, and announced on Taylor's blog, http://taylorusry.blogspot.com next week.

Ready, Set, Hop!
Taylor -- http://taylorusry.blogspot.com/
Cyndi -- http://scrappychickcyndi.blogspot.com/
Lynn -- http://www.stamperosity.com/
Patricia -- http://thinkingofinking.blogs.splitcoaststampers.com/
Alison -- http://alisonsrandomthoughts.blogspot.com/
Berenice -- http://karbersweetescape.blogspot.com/
Erica -- http://www.inkedupandreadytoplay.com/
Mary -- http://softangelkisses.blogspot.com/
Janelle -- http://rainpuddlesdesign.blogspot.com/
Erin -- http://stamptillucramp.blogspot.com/
Maria -- http://riacreations.blogspot.com/
Jennifer D -- http://just4funcrafts.blogspot.com/
Pam -- http://1pamperedstamper.blogspot.com/
Angelique -- http://scrapping-angel.blogspot.com/
Sandie -- http://sandieshores.blogspot.com/
Wendy P -- http://paperinkandsmiles.blogspot.com/
Suzi -- http://mrsweyremaster.blogspot.com/
Kathy -- http://pixieduststudio.blogspot.com/
Beth -- http://inkyfingersrule.blogspot.com/
Wendy J -- http://papertherapy-wendy.blogspot.com/
Kerry -- http://kerryischilling.blogspot.com/
Louise - http://www.artfullyarticulate.blogspot.com/
Liz -- http://www.blackcatsstudios.blogspot.com/
Laura - http://www.rememberinglifesmoments.blogspot.com/
Lee -- http://www.leekellogg.typepad.com/
Jennifer I -- http://www.justjingle.blogspot.com/
Krissy - http://www.paperinkspirations.blogspot.com/
Sunghee -- http://www.creativityinprogress.com/blog/
Cindy - http://cindycoutts.com/

And the prizes:

Stampendous - - http://www.stampendous.com/ (3 Cling Jumbo Flowers plus a handle - 3 prizes total) they are giving away: one Cling Jumbo Tulip set ( http://www.stampendous.com/product/0/CRS5012-R/_/Cling_Jumbo_Tulip_Set ), one Cling Jumbo Tiger Lily set ( http://www.stampendous.com/product/0/CRS5010-R/_/Cling_Jumbo_Tiger_Lily_Set), and one Cling Jumbo Dogwood set ( http://www.stampendous.com/product/0/CRS5011-R/_/Cling_Jumbo_Dogwood_Set ) . Each set will come with a Jumbo Handle. ( http://www.stampendous.com/product/32763/SSH57-R/_/Jumbo_Perfectly_Clear_Handle )

Chi Chi Memories - http://www.chichimemories.com/ - (digi stamp set of winner's choice)

Pixie Dust Studio - http://www.pixieduststudio.net/ - 2 digi images of winner's choice (1 winner)

Dreamweaver's Stencils - http://www.dreamweaverstencils.com/ - prize pack to 1 winner

Karber Digital Studio - http://www.karberdigital.com/ - 2 digi images of winner's choice (1 winner)

Maria Levine -http://www.etsy.com/shop/tykatsupplies - Ippity Kit (1 winner)

Skipping Stones Design - http://skippingstonesdesign.com/ - 1 clear stamp set of SSD's choosing (1 winner) --**as sooon as I know what the set is, I'll let you know)

Cindy Coutts/Christian Paper Crafts - http://cindycoutts.com/ - one SU stamp set - Fast & Fabulous -- US resident only (1 winner)

Sunghee Chon - http://www.amusestudio.com/sunghee/ - 1 a muse studio catalog + 1 stamp set of choice (Value equal or less than $12.99) for US resident only.

Sunghee Chon -- http://www.littlepotatohouse.com/ -- $20 gift certificates to Little Potato House template shop for US or non-US resident.

Karen from Your Next Stamp - http://www.yournextstamp.com/ would love to give away a stamp called Ellie loves The Beach http://yournextstamp.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=66_226_165&products_id=2586

Remember, if you get lost, go back to Taylor's blog http://taylorusry.blogspot.com/ to get your bearings and then continue on for more fun and inspiration.

Have a happy and safe holiday,
Liz

Summer is finally here!

2011-06-23T06:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome to another Dream Scheme Thursday. Summer is officially here and we have the hot weather to prove it. So for this week's Designer's Choice I chose a card in bright, sunny colors, appropriate for the start of summer.

I began by attaching the Mosaic stencil (LJ901) to lightweight card stock and applying color using Splendor "Circus" ink by Tsukineko. After removing the stencil and cleaning it, I repositioned it over the colored area and applied translucent embossing paste. I carefully removed the stencil, washed it, and allowed the card to dry. I wasn't kidding about the warm weather – the paste dried in about 15 minutes! Next I applied double sided mounting paper to card stock and, after soaping the back of the Summer stencil (LM294), attached it to the front of the sticky paper. Using Glitter Ritz Microfine Glitter in Copper, I sprinkled it over the letters and rubbed it in. After carefully removing the stencil, I applied Glitter Ritz Cool Highlight Transparent Microfine glitter to the remaining area and rubbed that in as well. I used a scalloped oval punch for the shape and the broad top of an orange Prismacolor pen to outline the scallops. The ribbon is by Creative Impressions.

Thankfully, it's cooled down a bit, so I just might make another card in cool blues and greens with a hint of gray to capture the morning fog.

I hope your summer is off to a good start. Get more ideas and inspiration by checking out the other Design Team blogs and the Dreamweaver Stencil's blog, DREAM it UP! Leave a note letting us know you've stopped by. We love to hear from you.

Happy Summer,
Liz

Thursday Dream Scheme Sketch Challenge

2011-06-16T06:00:00.000-07:00

It's a bit early, but happy Father's Day to all the Dads out there. To celebrate Dads this Sunday, the Dream Team is combining a sketch challenge with a Father's Day theme. Here's the sketch:

And here's my card:

Of course, artistic license came into play by combining the focal element with the sentiment. The card came together rather quickly, using Bo Bunny Mama-razzi Stripe and Core'dinations papers and the Happy Father's Day Stencil (LM244). I dry-embossed the stencil and sanded the raised portion to reveal the sentiment.

Happy Father's Day to all the Dads out there. I hope your day is filled with friends and family, a barbeque, baseball game or round of golf – something special to celebrate your day. You've earned it!

Happy crafting,
Liz

Designer's Choice on Dream Scheme Thursday

2011-06-09T01:13:00.000-07:00

June is a busy month for birthdays in our family, so today's post is one of the cards that will soon be in the mail. It's easy and you can make multiples in a snap just by changing the background papers to suit the recipient.

Here's what I did. Using the Xmas Package stencil (LL466), I dry embossed it on Core'dinations Pearl Gemstones paper, then with the stencil in place, drew inside each stencil cut with a Micron archival ink pen. Each package was cut out and the ribbons were colored with coordinating Copic markers. Couldn't be easier.

Be sure to check out the other team blogs as well as the Dreamweaver blog, DREAM it UP! for new and exciting creations.

See you next week,
Liz

Thursday Dream Schemes Color Challenge

2011-06-02T00:32:00.000-07:00

I LOVE challenge weeks as they make me move out of my comfort zone. And this week's gray and purple color challenge is no different. Purple – and any shade in between – is one of my favorite colors and looking through my closet, I found lots of it. Now to translate that into a card . . . I'm not sure there are purple hibiscus, but with a little artistic license, the stencil was perfect for this project.

I taped the hibiscus stencil (LG678) to light weight cream card stock (though it looks white in the photo) and applied white matte embossing paste. After washing the stencil and allowing the paste to dry, I repositioned the stencil over the dried paste and taped a piece of screen over the top for the faux cross-stitch look. Once the stencil and screen were in place, I applied color using pigment ink. It's an easy card to make and could be duplicated to make a set of note cards, with each card a different color. Perfect for end-of-year teacher thank-you gifts.

For more ideas on the purple and gray color challenge, visit the Dream Team blogs and don't forget to link your project to the Dreaweaver blog, DREAM it UP!

Happy crafting,
Liz

Materials Used
Card stock: Neenah Natural White for card base and hibiscus panel
Gray stripe, purple paper: Stampin' Up
Ribbon: Creative Impressions
Copic marker for edges of hibiscus panel

Dream Scheme Thursday

2011-05-26T06:00:00.000-07:00

Today is designer's choice, so sit with me and have a cup of tea, while we visit the Dream Team blogs!

This card is made with a beautiful piece of fuchsia embossing foil from MercartUSA. With the colored side up, place the Teacup (LG683) on the foil, then position the Black-Eyed Susan (LJ902) so that the flower is centered in the open part of the cup. Carefully turn the stencils over and dry emboss the metal with a paper stump. Remove the foil and, with a sanding block, gently go over the raised design to remove the color. Cut out the tea cup and adhere to your card. I used a piece of paper doily as an embellishment, but there are lovely vintage fabrics that would work as well. And, a clever crafter could fashion a saucer out of the foil remnants.

If you've finished your tea or coffee, get another cup before moving on to the rest of the blogs, and don't forget to stop at the Dreamweaver blog, DREAM it UP!. There's more inspiration ahead!

Happy crafting,
Liz

It's Still Thursday Somewhere in the World .. . . right?

2011-05-19T14:54:00.000-07:00

While the plan is to have the blog published by 6 a.m., I'm delighted that by the time this gets out to the world, it will still be Thursday! It's been one of those weeks . . .

So welcome to Dreamweaver's Thursday Dream Schemes and sketch challenge day.

This sketch allows for a lot of interpretations. The first that came to my mind were religious ones like cathedral windows or the Ten Commandments. But the more I looked at it, I began to think of garden gates, gatefold cards, a shaped card that when folded looked like the top half of a rocket . . . you get the idea.

There's one stencil – well a lot, really – that I bought with a card style in mind and the Rose Bush (LL3002) fit this sketch challenge perfectly. I began by dry embossing the stencil and then applying color with stencil brushes and Splendor inks by Tsukineko. To get the curved top, I used an oval die cut that just happened to be the right size. I added a ribbon closure because I have a huge stash of it, but metal hook and eye closures would be more appropriate to a garden gate. To finish the inside of the card, I added a piece of the same pink patterned paper I used on the front. It is pale enough that you could stencil another rose or two on the inside to keep the rose garden theme going.

Be sure to check the other Design Team blogs and link your project on the Dreamweaver blog, DREAM it UP! so we can see what wonderfulness you've created.

See you next week,
Liz

Welcome back!

2011-05-11T17:26:00.000-07:00

It's Dream Scheme Thursday and time for another new release from Dreamweaver Stencils. Birds are not high on my list of favorites and, it is safe to say, I'm afraid of them when they're flying around. However, I've seen Hitchcock's movie, The Birds, numerous times, and I'm fascinated by birds in cages or anywhere where they can't fly at me . . . go figure! The raven weather vane falls into the latter category – I LOVE it! My immediate thoughts led to a Halloween or fall theme, but the possibilities are endless, especially using the N-S-E-W part of the weather vane, which I omitted from this card.

I began by adhering the patterned paper to heavier card stock and embossed the raven (LL3015) with glossy black embossing paste, omitting the weather vane portion of the stencil. On a separate piece of card stock, I embossed the long pumpkin stencil (LL514) with white matte embossing paste. When dry, I repositioned the clean stencil over the image and applied color using Tsukineko's Splendor inks and a stencil brush. I cut it out and attached it to the card front. It's a little early for Halloween, but it doesn't hurt to get a head start!

Be sure to check out out the other blogs, but first stop on by the Dreamweaver Stencils' blog, DREAM it UP! to see what Lynell has in store for you. There's lots of inspiration and great ideas in blogland!

Happy crafting,

Liz

Thursday Dream Scheme

2011-05-05T01:01:00.000-07:00

This is a three-in-one post: it's Dream Scheme Thursday's color challenge week with the blue and orange combo selected by Georgia, combined with Mother's Day, and a newly released stencil. I am loving this new release and this apron is perfect for Mother's Day.

The apron (LG736) was traced on to patterned paper and cut out. Then, the pockets and shoulder straps were traced on to coordinating paper, cut out and adhered to the apron. Happy Mother's Day was paste embossed with matte white embossing paste on Core'dination's Gemstone paper and layered on top of two strips of white paper punched with Fiskar's eyelet punch. And there you have it.

Take a look at the other Dream Team blogs listed on the right for more inspiration and look at previous posts as well as some of the Design Team posted cards using the apron stencil last week. And don't forget to stop at the Dreamweaver blog, DREAM it UP!, as I'm sure Lynell has something special to show you.

Happy Crafting,
Liz

April Showers Bring May Flowers . . .

2011-04-28T07:45:00.000-07:00

Welcome back for another Dream Scheme Thursday. Today is Designer's Choice and as I was planning this post, it was overcast and gray with a little drizzle so, of course, my thoughts turned to umbrellas and the new release from Dreamweaver Stencils.

I began by dry embossing the umbrella stencil (LJ908) and then added color using soft pastels from the Splendor ink Blossom collection by Tsukineko. When the ink was dry, I positioned the rain stencil (LJ908) over the image and embossed it using translucent paste, which gives just a hint of a drizzle. Apologies for the poor photography. Neither the camera nor Photoshop could reproduce the colors as they are on the card. The raindrops don't show up well in the photo and look more like bad inking. The sentiment, from the rain word stencil is dry embossed on pink vellum, cut into a tag shape and adhered under the ribbon. That's all there is to it. This is another one of those versatile stencils that can be used for a variety of occasions – wedding or baby shower, get well, or just to brighten up an overcast day.

The new stencils are now available and will start showing up in the Dream Team blogs, so be sure to check them out. And don't forget to stop by Dreamweaver's DREAM it UP bog to see what's new.

Happy crafting,
Liz

Thursday Dream Scheme Sketch Challenge

2011-04-21T06:00:00.000-07:00

Thanks for joining us for another Dream Scheme Sketch Challenge. This week's sketch is by team member, Lee Kellogg.

In keeping with the Easter theme, I chose the large bunny stencil (LM2008) and Happy Easter (LM234). Each line of the sentiment was machine embossed separately on Core'dinations Chocolate Box Berries Jubilee and sanded. The top and bottom edges were torn to reveal the paper's pink core and to provide the layers in the sketch. For the bunny, I adhered a piece of double stick paper on to pick cardstock. After applying Dreamweaver's Handmade Hawaiian Soap to the back of the stencil, I positioned it on the sticky paper and applied bronze Glitter Ritz Microfine glitter and rubbed it in with my finger. I placed the paper stencil side down on the table and, while holding the stencil to keep it from bending, pulled of the paper. I then applied Glitter Ritz transparent cool highlight glitter to the rest of the exposed sticky paper and rubbed that in as well. The transparent glitter allowed the pale pink of the background paper to show through.

Be sure to check the other Dream Team blogs for inspiration and then link your project on the Dreamweaver blog, DREAM it UP!

Happy Easter,
Liz

Thursday Dream Scheme

2011-04-14T06:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome back! This Thursday is designer's choice and I'm taking my cue from my team mates by combining a Dreamweaver Stencil with a sketch challenge.

I chose the Mojo Monday Sketch #186

and the Black-Eyed Susan stencil (LJ902)

A portion of the stencil was dry-embossed (the old fashioned way using a stylus and a light box) twice and colored with Splendor Inks by Tsukineko. The second flower was cut out and adhered with pop dots to add dimension. Products used: patterned paper by Die Cuts With a View, Nana's Kitchen; solid paper by Core'dinations; sentiment by Paper Trey Ink; ribbon by Creative Impressions.

Stop by the other Dream Team blogs and then check the web-o-sphere (I just made that up) for a challenge for added inspiration. There are a lot of them out there and it would be fun to do a different one each week incorporating your favorite Dreamweaver Stencil with that week's sketch.

But, our Dream Scheme Sketch Challenge is next Thursday, so be sure to save your best work for us!

Happy Crafting,
Liz

Thursday Dream Scheme

2011-04-07T02:17:00.000-07:00

And this week it's a colorway challenge. The colors are teal and yellow, chosen by Dream Teamer Kristi, so let's get started.

I've been trying to duplicate the lime green/muted violet colors of a hydrangea I saw at the San Francisco Flower Mart without much success until it occurred to me that using yellow matte embossing paste might give me the background I needed to achieve the soft colors I was looking for. I began by paste embossing the hydrangea stencil (LJ888) with yellow matte embossing paste. After allowing for drying time, I repositioned the clean stencil and added color with Splendor inks by Tsukineko.

I've embossed several other floral stencils with the yellow paste – some on colored card stock, others on white or cream and a few on patterned paper – and can't wait to color them.

After visiting the other Dream Team blogs, get to work and show us your take on the teal and yellow color challenge by linking your creation on the DREAM it UP! blog. Can't wait to see what you come up with.

Happy Crafting,
Liz

Dream Scheme Thursday

2011-03-31T13:30:00.000-07:00

Valentine's Day and St. Patrick's Day have come and gone and next in the card-sending line-up is Easter. It's never too soon to get a head start on the Easter Bunny, so here is one of the cards I've made to send to family and friends I won't be seeing on Easter Sunday.

I began by embossing the Easter Egg (LG685) and Happy Easter (LM234) stencils with white matte embossing paste. When dry, I repositioned the clean stencil on the Easter egg and applied Palette Stamp & Stick Gluepad over the embossed areas with a large dauber, followed by Metallic F/X in Glacier, Gold Dust, Kiwi, Moonstore and Pink Blush applied with stencil brushes. Note: the instructions on the back of the Palette gluepad tell you to heat the image lightly until tacky. I've not done this and it has not been a problem for me. You might want to make a test sample before continuing.

That's all there is to it. Be sure to visit the other Dream Team blogs for more creative inspiration. Then get to work and show us your project on the DREAM it UP! blog.

Happy Crafting,
Liz

Thursday's Dream Scheme Sketch Challenge

2011-03-24T06:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome back! Today is a sketch challenge day and Louise has given us a fun one to work with. The front panel is half the width of the back. The image hides the sentiment (if you choose to use one), and there's still plenty of room to write a note of your own. Here's the sketch and my card:

I began by dry-embossing the Bearded Iris (LL516) on a Nestabilities die cut and then, before removing the stencil, applied Splendor Ink by Tsukineko. All edges were outlined with a Copic marker and then assembled. The dotted paper on the front panel is glittered (unfortunately, it didn't show up in any of the photographs I took), which gives it a bit of bling, but I'm thinking it needs something more. Hmmm . . . I'll have to give this some thought.

In the meantime, check out other Dream Team blogs, to see their take on Louise's sketch, and don't forget to stop by the Dreamweaver Stencil's blog, DREAM it UP, to play along with this week's challenge and show us what you've created with Louise's sketch.

See you next week,
Liz

Whoo Hoo . . . It's Thursday

2011-03-17T04:22:00.000-07:00

and time for another Dream Scheme visit with the Dreamweaver Stencils Dream Team.

But first of all, my apologies for not posting last week. As it happened, life caught up with me – doctor, vet, scheduled appointments, you know how it goes – and crafting time got the short straw in the draw. But I'm slowly catching up and since this week is designer's choice, I'm showing a card that will soon be in the mail to someone, but I won't say who in case they're reading this. You'll just have to wait to find out!

You just can't say enough "thank yous" when someone steps up to help you out and I'd rather send a hand-written note than click the send button. So I've created a card that is quick and easy and falls into my "variations on a theme" category. Begin by dry embossing Mosaic Swirls (LJ901) and the Thank You (LL303) on Core'dinations card stock. With fine grit sand paper, sand the raised parts to expose the paper's coordinated color core. Cut the swirl background to size, and tear the edges of the thank you. Add brads before assembling on a mat and card base. Couldn't be easier. You can make the same card using different embellishments; paste emboss colored card stock with translucent embossing paste, or dry emboss the background and using the double glitter technique or a colored embossing paste on the thank you . . . the possibilities are endless.

Thanks for stopping by and don't forget to check my team mates' blogs to see what they have created for you. It's St. Patrick's Day, so I'm sure there will be some green!

Happy Crafting,
Liz

Thursday Dream Schemes Designer's Choice

2011-03-03T03:36:00.000-08:00

Spring can't be too far away because the hyacinths are blooming – still waiting for the daffodils – and these little black and brown birds are checking out the area under the eaves outside our family room for a new home. They come back every year, despite my attempts to dissuade them. And, if I'm not careful, they can get a lot of nest building accomplished in just a few hours. You'd think 10 pairs of cat eyes watching their every move would give them a hint that this is not a good place to raise a family. Or, maybe they're smart enough to realize that the cats are the ones in the cage!

The love birds in this card, however, have a beautiful gilded cage to call home. I began by attaching the Birdcage stencil (LL3012) to card stock with removable tape, applied metallic gold embossing paste, removed and cleaned the stencil and set the card aside to dry. The next step involves dry embossing the Lovebirds Heart stencil (LL3011) and, with the stencil in place, coloring the birds and foliage with Splendor Inks from Tsukineko. I let the ink dry for a few minutes and then cut out the birds and just enough greenery to fit over the top of the card. Assemble the pieces and you're done! The card, as shown, is A2 (4-1/4 x 5-1/2), but could easily be made larger to accommodate a sentiment at the bottom.

Please be sure to visit the other members' blogs to see their pick of the week, and I'll see you next Thursday.

Happy Crafting,
Liz

Thursday's Dream Scheme Sketch Challenge

2011-02-24T06:09:00.000-08:00

It's Sketch Challenge Day! These are really a lot of fun and I hope that you're getting some inspiration from the Dream Team. Ideas feed off of each other and all it takes is one Ah Ha! moment to get the creative juices flowing. Here we go:

The Sketch

The Card

Both the vertical lines and the daisies were dry-embossed and inked using Splendor inks by Tsukineko. For the lines, I used the new plaid stencil, LX7002; the daisies are LL548. That's all there is to it. This is a quick and easy card to make. You can have several on hand and the sentiments can be added as needed. Or, you could make a set of six or eight, each in a different, but coordinating color and sentiment, to give as a gift. Hmmm. . . it's not too early to be thinking about Mother's Day and teacher gifts.

Check the other Dream Team blogs to see what they have whipped up for you. You're sure to get lots of good ideas.

Happy Crafting,
Liz

Rain, Rain, Go Away, Come again another day . . . or maybe not

2011-02-17T11:13:00.000-08:00

If you're looking for the Virtual Valentine's Day Blog Hop, scroll down to the next post.

Welcome to this week's Thursday Dream Scheme. I know I shouldn't complain about the rain when family and friends are dealing with snow shovels, snow blowers and HUGE amounts of the white, fluffy stuff. But I'm a California girl and, while I know we need the rain, couldn't it just rain at night and be sunny during the day?

Since Mother Nature bats last, I'm using this cheery rooster to remind me that Spring and Summer are just months away. The stencil (LG732) was released at CHA last month and is fast becoming one of my favorites. I paste embossed the rooster with matte black paste. When that was dry, I repositioned the stencil and applied crackle paste. (Don't forget to wash your stencil immediately after each paste application.) Crackles appeared as the paste dried, but he needed to be a bit more colorful for a rooster. Repositiioning the stencil over the rooster, I used chalk for color and shading.

Before pasting up a few more roosters, I used double-sided sticky paper to adhere the printed paper to heavier card stock. This kept the printed paper from curling as it absored moisture from the paste. I did not do that on the card in this post and you can see a bit of warping under the top feather. It's a learning process . . .

Be sure to check the Dream Team member blogs on the right for more fun projects. See you next week and Happy Crafting,

Liz

Virtual Valentine's Day Blog Hop

2011-02-14T08:31:00.000-08:00

Thanks for joining us on the Virtual Valentine's Day Blog Hop. If this is the first blog you're visiting, the next stop (after leaving a comment here, of course) should be at Taylor Usry's blog, The Quiet Moments, where you'll find all the details, the sponsors who are providing the amazing prizes, and the list of talented designers who have made special projects for the hop. Briefly, to be eligible to win, visit as many blogs as possible and leave a comment on each one. The more blogs you visit and leave a comment on, the more chances you have to win; and the prizes are fabulous! You will be able to post comments until 6 p.m. Thursday, February 17, and the winners will be announced the following day.

I used the glossy red embossing paste on the Dangling Heart stencil (LM272) and while the paste was still wet, sprinkled it with Stampendous ultra-fine pink pastel glitter. That's all there is to it. Layer it with your favorite papers and your card is sure to bring a smile to the recipient.

Thanks for visiting. The next blog on the hop belongs to Kim Reid at http://kraftinkimmiestamps.blogspot.com/ Be sure to stop by and leave a comment.

Happy Crafting,

Liz

Here's the list of Virtual Valentine's Day Blog Hop Participants. The list of sponsors and their prizes follows:
Taylor Usry - http://taylorusry.blogspot.com/
Libby Hickson - http://stampinlibby.blogspot.com/
Cindy Coutts - http://cindycoutts.com/
Cyndi Bundy - http://scrappychickcyndi.blogspot.com/
Amber Hillman - http://ambersantics.blogspot.com/
Angelique Nederpel - http://scrapping-angel.blogspot.com/
Tanya Johnson - http://little-scrapper.blogspot.com/
Suzi McKenzie - http://mrsweyremaster.blogspot.com/
Cathy Wallington - http://ellieskeeperscreations.blogspot.com/
Pam Hornschu - http://1pamperedstamper.blogspot.com/
Wendy Price - http://paperinkandsmiles.blogspot.com/
Patricia Hays - http://thinkingofinking.blogs.splitcoaststampers.com/
Maria Levine - http://riacreations.blogspot.com/
Sandie Dunne - http://sandieshores.blogspot.com/
Juanita Gillen - http://stampintwilghtmom.blogspot.com/
Janelle Stollfus - http://rainpuddlesdesign.blogspot.com/
Mary Collins - http://www.softangelkisses.blogspot.com/
Berenice Rendon - http://karbersweetescape.blogspot.com/
Cheryl Gorka - http://shestamps.blogspot.com/
Jessica Fitzgerald - http://jkfitzgerald.blogspot.com/
Dee Morris - http://sprytebyrd.blogspot.com/ -
Darsie Bruno - http://www.craftingwithdarsie.blogspot.com/
Sandy Allnock - http://acolourfulworld.blogspot.com/
Margie Cortina - http://ohbumbleismemargie.blogspot.com/
Kathy Fronczak - http://pixieduststudio.blogspot.com/
Cat Darling - http://catscraftycorner.blogspot.com/
Joyce Martens (Jolara) - http://jolaras.blogspot.com/
Erin Leveille -http://stamptillucramp.blogspot.com/
Gudrun Loennecken- http://papirbloggen.blogspot.com/
Mackenzie Bruckler - http://midnightscramper.blogspot.com/
Melissa (Pink Cat) - http://pinkcatstudio.blogspot.com/
Patty Tanuz - http://cardsbypattytanuz.blogspot.com/
Emily Leiphart - http://www.leiphartonart.blogspot.com/
Jane Matsumoto - http://whoopsiedaisy-jane.blogspot.com/
Kimme Leach - http://kimme-thelifeofaprincess.blogspot.com/
Kerry Kung - http://kerryischilling.blogspot.com/
Heather Lee-Reppen - http://inkonmyear.blogspot.com/
Rachel Sztonyk - http://gingerbreadgallery.blogspot.com/
Jennifer Dove - http://just4funcrafts.blogspot.com/
Lysa Q- http://lysaq.blogspot.com/
Erica Johnson-Wanzer - http://www.inkedupandreadytoplay.com/
Tina Kiehn - http://kiehn10.blogspot.com/
Sugar Whiting - http://sugscardsnmore.blogspot.com/
Karin Martin - http://karin-withaniforpaper.blogspot.com/
Sunghee Chon - http://www.creativityinprogress.com/blog/
Tanis Palmer - http://tannyps-rubbish.blogspot.com/
Lindsey Martin-Penny - http://www.bashfulblogging.blogspot.com/
Kristi Parker Van Doren - http://kristiscreativecafe.blogspot.com/
Julie Elak - http://www.lastminutecrafter.blogspot.com/
Alison Heikkila - http://alisonsrandomthoughts.blogspot.com/
Audrey E - http://hippieaud.blogspot.com/
Laura Drahozal - http://www.rememberinglifesmoments.blogspot.com/
Louise Healy - http://www.artfullyarticulate.blogspot.com/
Wendy Jordan - http://www.papertherapy-wendy.blogspot.com/
Lynell Harlow - http://www.dreamweaverstencils.blogspot.com/
Terrece Siddoway - http://www.made4ubyt.blogspot.com/
Kim Reid - http://kraftinkimmiestamps.blogspot.com/
Beth Ranney-Thomas - http://inkyfingersrule.blogspot.com/

Here's the list of AWESOME companies donating prizes!
- StampInsanity - with a set of choice for one winner
- Meljens designs - 4 digis to one winner
- Pixie Dust Studio - 2 digis to one winner
- Lizzie Anne Designs - $10 gift certificate (donated by Taylor U)
- Christian Paper Crafts - 1 year general membership
- Paper Pretties - 3 total winners: 1 person will receive Timeless Love stamp set; 2 people will
receive 5 digis of their choice from the store
- Karber Digital Images - 2 digis to one winner
- Di's Digi Downloads - 5 digi images to one winner
- The Scrappychick Boutique - 2 6x6 Cosmo Cricket paper pads to one winner
- Stampendous - 4 cling rubber stamps from new release to 1 winner
- Pink Cat Studio - 5 digis of winner's choice to one winner
- Amber Ink - $10 gift certificate (and more if people use an Amber Ink product - see deets on
their blog)
- Simply Betty Stamps - 3 digis of the winner's choice
- Mark's Finest Papers - set of their choosing to the winner
- Dreamweaver's Stencils - a couple stencils, pearlescent embossing paste and a palette knife
- Chi Chi Memories - Meaning of Love Digi Stamp Set to one winner
- Little Potato House - $20 gift certificate
- Kenny K digis: 4 digis to one winner
- Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps: winner's choice of 2 images

It's still Thursday, right?

2011-02-10T20:30:00.000-08:00

Late edit: I know the difference between AM and PM . . . I just didn't remember to add it when I scheduled this post earlier in the week.

Welcome back for this week's color challenge: pink and brown . . . perfect colors for Valentine's Day.

I began by paste embossing pale pink card stock with the small Damask stencil (LJ907) and pearlescent embossing paste. I then inked a smaller piece of pink cardstock with a brown Artist's Paintstick and the Heart Swirls stencil (LL567). When both were dry, I trimmed the edges, mounted the paste embossed piece on to brown cardstock, added ribbon and attached the scroll heart with 3D dots. There you have it – simple, elegant and easy to make in multiples – enough to send to all your favorite Valentines.

Be sure to visit the other Dream Team blogs listed on the right to see more pink and brown creations. Have a Happy Valentine's Day and see you next week,
Liz

The Creative Process

2011-02-03T06:00:00.000-08:00

You know how you start a project with an idea of how you want it to turn out and then somehow, along the way, it ends up being not exactly what you had in mind? Well, the creative process sometimes takes us on a winding road to our final destination and we should learn to enjoy the journey.

At the Craft and Hobby Association convention this past weekend, I learned a new technique using double sided sticky paper, two stencils, foil, flock and glitter. Later, I had the opportunity to recreate the process and, while everything was going smoothly – or so I thought – I neglected to brush off the excess black flock before removing the top stencil. What resulted was the soft black velvety background you see in the photo, rather than the pure white flock which was to be applied in the next step. The point of my rambling is to be a bamboo (a favorite saying from a former colleague) – be flexible, keep an open mind, and if something doesn't turn out as you thought it should, it's OK, it just might be better! Creating is all about giving ourselves permission to experiment, to try something different, to make lemonade out of lemons.

I thought a lot about the creative process on the flight home and the more I looked at my card, the more I liked it . . . and more "what ifs" came to mind. So come back next week to see where the creative process has taken me.

Big thanks and hugs to Julie Makela, a very talented woman with a delightful sense of humor, who demonstrated the technique I tried to recreate, and to Lynell Harlow, our fearless leader at Dreamweaver Stencils for her encouragement and for giving us such a great product to work with.

And apologies to the attendants on Southwest Flight 2417 for the glitter on the (thankfully) unoccupied seat next to me.

Happy crafting,
Liz

Wednesday/Thursday Multitasking

2011-01-26T06:48:00.000-08:00

Today's post is a two-for-one special! Dreamweaver Stencils is this week's sponsor at Cardabilities and the Dream Team's Thursday Challenge is a turquoise/brown/kraft brown/neutral color challenge, so I decided to bring you a sketch and colorway challenge a day early. Have I confused you yet? Don't worry, it's pretty easy and a lot of fun. Here's a way to really get the creative juices flowing.

Here's the sketch and the card

I began by dry embossing the Big Dots background stencil (LJ 804) and the cupcakes (LL551) on white cardstock. Before removing the cupcake stencil, I colored them with Shiva Artist's Paint sticks (Winter and Spring iridescent tri-color sets were used on this card). I haven't used paint sticks in a while and I had forgotten how much I liked the subtle shimmer of the iridescent sticks. They are a nice touch for a more masculine card without going overboard. I think they'd be great on the Easter egg stencils (LG685 and LM253). The dot background was cut to size and edged with the chisel point of a coordinating Copic marker.

Bonus: There are three cupcakes on this stencil, so change the colors and sentiment to suit your needs and you'll have three cards ready to go.

Ready to play along? Check the Cardabilities and Dreamweaver blogs as well as those of the Design Team and get to work. We're looking forward to seeing what you can do! Keep in mind that some members of the Design Team are posting different projects today and tomorrow and some of us are multitasking, so be sure to check back tomorrow for more inspiration.

I'm off to the Craft and Hobby Association's trade show this weekend to meet many of the Design Team members and spend time in the Dreamweaver booth. Until next week,

Happy crafting,

Liz

Thursday Dream Scheme

2011-01-20T06:00:00.000-08:00

For today's Designer's Choice, I chose a sweet treat. And what could be better than a cupcake? Well, three of them, all in a row, sounds pretty yummy to me.

I started with the Cupcakes stencil (LL551) and dry embossed it using a Sizzix BIGkick. With the stencil still in place, I inked the bottom of the cupcake using the two browns from the Hazy collection of Splendor ink by Tsukineko. I repositioned the clean stencil over the cupcakes and covered the inked portion with a post-it and used a bit of removable tape to cover the chocolate kiss, cherry and candle to keep them clean while I applied a product called Mudd Puddles into which I added glitter to give it a little sparkle. Before removing the stencil, I took off the tape and colored the chocolate kiss, cherry and candle with Copic markers and applied a layer of Diamond Glaze for added interest.

Be sure to check the other Dream Team members' blogs (see the sidebar on the right) and don't forget to stop by Dreamweaver Stencil's DREAM it UP blog to see what's on hand for today's Thursday Dream Scheme.

Happy crafting and see you next week,
Liz

Dream Schemes Sketch Challenge

2011-01-13T06:00:00.000-08:00

Welcome to our Thursday Dream Schemes Sketch Challenge. After checking out the Dream Team's creations (see the side bar on the right), stop by the Dreamweaver Stencil's blog and show us your take on the sketch by using Mr. Linky. We'd love to see what you can do!

Here's the sketch and here's my card

OK. So I can follow directions . . . sometimes. I like to think of it as creative license. But what I really love is the "ah hah" moment, the light bulb that shines above your head when the ideas jell and you know exactly what you're going to do. I fell in love with the glossy blue paste when we were working on the December 23rd challenge, and I pasted a lot of stencils, not knowing how I would use them. The baby buggy (LL541) was a perfect match for the Theresa Collins paper (I did leave off the sentiment because there was too much going on in the background). And, while the ribbon looks almost black in the photo, it is the same color as the glossy blue paste! I used Nestabilities Labels Four for the image and mat, and there you have it – card to welcome the precious little bundle of joy.

I hope you're enjoying visiting each Dream Team member's blog and don't forget to link your card via Mr. Linky.

See you next week,

Liz

Thursday Dream Schemes Designer's Choice

2011-01-06T06:10:00.000-08:00

It's a new year with new beginnings and a blank . . . well, almost blank . . . calendar in front of me. One of my goals is to schedule crafting time, much like I do everything else, rather than trying to fit it in piece meal. So far, so good for week one! Here's what I've done.

In keeping with the Valentine's day theme, I wanted to experiment using the same stencil and technique, but varying the products to achieve different looks. I began with the heart background stencil (LJ833) and applied ink to the back of the stencil. I then placed the stencil on card stock, inked side down, taped the top and bottom with repositionable tape and ran in through the BIGKick. Carefully removing the tape, I set the card aside to dry, and cleaned the stencil.

For the card on the left, I repositioned the clean stencil and taped all sides before applying pearlescent embossing paste. For the card on the right, I applied white embossing paste. When that dried, I repositioned the stencil and taped just the top and bottom to keep it in place while I applied glue (Palette Stamp and Stick Gluepad) with a dauber and then brushed on Pink Blaze Metallic F/X. I think this is my favorite as the metallic F/X over white embossing paste gives it a shimmery velvet look.

I have a few more ideas to work on, so please stop by in the coming weeks. But before you leave, be sure to visit the blogs of the other crafty designers and the Dreamweaver Stencils blog, DREAM it UP.

Happy crafting,
Liz

We have Secret Santas . . . Why Not Have a Secret Cupid?

2010-12-30T05:24:00.000-08:00

I love leaving little notes and stocking stuffers for loved ones on the days before Christmas, so I thought why not do something similar for Valentines Day? Who doesn't like chocolate and what could be better than the anticipation of a special treat? Well, when today's Dream Scheme challenge, Love in the New Year, was announced I knew exactly what I was going to do. There are so many beautiful Valentine's Day stencils that I haven't even scratched the surface. The possibilities are endless.

I decided that tags would be a good way to go. I could write a note on the back and then tuck them into the breakfast or dinner napkin, put on a pillow with a yummy chocolate, or add to a briefcase or lunch box.

For the background papers I used Ranger distress inks and an acrylic block and applicator tool. In both cases, I applied the ink directly to a splat mat and then spritzed it with water. For the paper on the left, I used an acrylic block as a stamp and after dipping it into the ink, applied it directly to the paper, giving it a mottled look. For the paper on the right, I used the alcohol ink applicator tool with a cotton pad, and applied the ink in a circular motion, leaving some areas darker than others.

After allowing some drying time, I attached the Heart Swirls stencil (LL567) and applied metallic gold ink (Splendor by Tsukineko).

The Tole heart stencil (LL3010) reminded me of the beautiful scroll work you see on Victorian lockets so, with a bit of cutting, I made one! First I taped the stencil to the background paper and applied metallic gold ink (Splendor by Tsukineko). Then I carefully traced the outline of a heart and cut it out with a craft knife. A photo was attached to the back before adhering it to the darker pink mat.

I still want to try the double glitter technique, and maybe another heart with flocking. Then I thought I could ink the back of the stencil and run it through the BigKick for a different look. And maybe next I could try . . . . oh, you get the picture.

Don't forget to visit the Dreamweaver Stencils blog, DREAM it UP, as well as the blogs of the other fabulous designers. Then, mark your calendar and be sure to stop by next Thursday for another round of Dream Schemes.

Wishing you all the best in the New Year, and be sure to add some crafting time to your New Year's resolutions!

Liz

Thursday Dream Schemes Designer's Choice

2010-12-23T11:33:00.000-08:00

I know it's a busy time for all of us, but thank you for stopping by and spending some time with us to see what we've created for you.

Before you know it, the first birthdays of the year will be rolling around and, while I always have a stash of cards for the women in our family, the men are a little harder. This one, using Dreamweaver Stencils LJ845 (Bamboo) and LL537 (Tiki God) is just right!

First, I positioned the Bamboo stencil on white card stock (cut slightly longer than the stencil) and applied Splendor ink. On a smaller piece of card stock, I positioned the Tiki God stencil and applied black matte embossing paste. When that was dry, I repositioned the clean stencil over the black paste and applied a layer of crackle paste, removed and cleaned the stencil and left the image to dry. While the Tiki God was drying, I went back to the Bamboo image and applied a layer of Mudd Puddles sand paste to mimic a beach scene. When the Tiki God had dried and crackled (a wonderful effect, almost like magic), I repositioned the clean stencil and used pastels to color him. I then cut out the Tiki God and attached him using adhesive on the bottom and dimensional adhesive on the top to make him stand away from the bamboo. By attaching the image to the left of the green card stock, there's enough room to stamp a greeting of your choice, be it birthday greetings, party invitation, get well, or just thinking of you.

Be sure to visit the other designer's blogs listed on the right and don't forget to post your creation using Mr. Linky on the Dream It Up blog

Thanks for spending time with us, and we look forward to sharing more with you in the new year.

Happy Holidays,
Liz

Time Out for Thursday Dream Schemes

2010-12-16T06:00:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Blog Friends,

I know it's only nine days until Christmas and there's more to do than there are hours in the day, but take a break and see what the Dream Team has created for you. Today's challenge is color – blue/purple – using the glossy blue embossing paste. The glossy blue paste is rich and regal, like a sapphire. And there are so many ways to use it.

Time is short these days, so I've combined this week's challenge with my nephew's birthday card. I chose the balloon stencil (LL487) and, after taping the stencil to white card stock, applied the glossy blue embossing paste. I then carefully removed the stencil and cleaned it. After the paste dried, I applied ink to the balloons. When that dried, I used a soft cloth to remove the ink from the embossed image to restore the glossy finish. I then cut around the balloons and attached them to the front of the card with pop dots to make the balloons stand out from the rest of the card. I hope he likes it!

There's more to see, so be sure to click on the links in the right-hand sidebar to see the other projects the Dream Team has made. And be sure to come back next week to see what we've been working on.

Happy Holidays,
Liz

Thursday Dream Schemes

2010-12-09T05:07:00.000-08:00

Welcome to another round of Dream Team blog posts. There is no theme for this week, so I've chosen one of the cards that I made for this year's holiday craft fairs.

The snowflake stencil (LJ819) can be used so many ways, but it is very elegant on its own. I dry embossed the paper using the BIGkick. Then, with the stencil still in place, I added a layer of translucent paste and then sprinkled it with clear glitter, to accent the snowflakes. The sentiment is inked with Splendor silver and blue inks, to continue the icy feeling.

Thanks for stopping by. And don't forget to visit the rest of the Dream Team blogs listed on the right. You'll be sure to find more great projects and ideas from the team. See you next week, and . . .

Happy Holidays,
Liz

It's Thursday . . .

2010-12-02T07:46:00.000-08:00

and that means it's time for another Dreamweaver Dream Schemes post. If you stopped by last week, you'll remember that our challenge was to do something with a Christmas theme using non-traditional colors – no red or green, no maroon or forest green. That was a great challenge as it forced me to work outside my comfort zone. But it also made me look at my paper stash in a different way. Surprisingly, I found several . . . well, actually, more than several . . . papers that would work.

This week we were given a sketch challenge and I decided to carry on with the non-traditional Christmas colors. It was a lot of fun and I hope you'll give it a try. Thinking outside the box is a great way to get the creative juices flowing. Here's the sketch:

And here's my take on it:

For the packages I used Dreamweaver Stencil LL466, which I dry embossed using a Sizzix Big Kick and Core'dinations paper. After dry embossing, I sanded the images with fine grit sand paper and then cut them out. The sentiment is Dreamweaver Stencil LS91, which I inked using VersaMagic Dew Drop in purple hydrangea.

While I'm not ready to give up the traditional Christmas colors, this was a good way to get me thinking outside the box. So now it's your turn. Take a look at your papers collection with an eye toward the non-traditional. You just might be surprised at what you find. For more inspiration, check the blogs of my fellow design team members listed on the sidebar on the right, and get ready to be wowed by the projects they've created.

Thanks for stopping by. Happy crafting,

Liz

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-25T06:00:00.000-08:00

to all of you who are taking a break from kitchen duties and joining us for the Thanksgiving Day kickoff of the Dreamweaver Thursday's Dream Schemes. Beginning today and every Thursday thereafter, check the Dream Team members' blogs (see the sidebar on the right) to see what we've made for you.

Today's challenge was to create a card using non-traditional Christmas colors. As soon as I heard that, I knew exactly what I would do. One of my favorite memories was my Grandmother's aluminum Christmas tree – you know, the ones that look like a gazillion strips of tin foil glued to a metal branch. All the ornaments were one color and a flood lamp was placed on the floor on each side of the tree for uplighting. My Grandmother and the tree are no longer with us, but the memory lives on in this card.

The Christmas tree (LG651) was embossed with white matte embossing paste. When dry, I applied Splendor inks in silver, gold and turquoise. That's all there is to it. If you need to make a lot of cards, this might be the one to choose.

Thanks for stopping by. But don't forget to check out what the other designers have made for you. Just click on the names on the right.

See you next week!

Come join the parade . . .

2010-11-24T11:30:00.000-08:00

. . . the Dreamweaver Thursday's Dream Scheme parade, that is. While the turkey is in the oven and the family is watching the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade or, as Lynell, our fearless leader says, "watching the Dallas Cowboys try to win another football game," come back tomorrow as the Dream Team members (click on their links in the sidebar) showcase their non-traditional Christmas color creations. It's a sure way to get your creative juices flowing and give you enough energy to get through the rest of the day, the Black Friday shopping frenzy and still have enough left over for some crafting time on the weekend.

Though I count my blessing year 'round, in the spirit of Thanksgiving, I'd like to extend a special thanks to my family and friends (those I see or talk to every day and those who have become my internet friends and blog readers), for your many kindnesses throughout the year. You, along with my best friend (who also happens to be my husband), are truly the wind beneath my wings.

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving and I'll see you tomorrow.

Liz

Black Cats, of course

2010-10-20T20:29:00.000-07:00

Well, you can't have a blog named Black Cats Studios without having black cats and, of course, Dreamweaver Stencils has just the thing – three cats (LM266)! It's just perfect. The stencil is embossed with matte black embossing paste on card stock cut with the Tim Holtz Baroque die. When dry, I gave the kitties a little bling by adding pearl and ribbon collars. Before matting, I punched holes on either side with a horizontal slot punch (Stampin' Up) and added more ribbon (can you tell I like ribbon?). With all the mats attached, I turned the ribbon ends to the back of the pink mat and adhered it to the white card base.

Now it's your turn . . .
Wendy, another of the very creative members of the Dream Team, has a fun, two week challenge going on at her blog, Paper Therapy. Check it out for the details and then get to work making a cool card, scrapbook page or altered item using Dreamweaver Stencils. . . whatever strikes your fancy. Just be sure you don't miss the November 4 deadline!

AND THE WINNER IS . . .

2010-10-04T11:56:00.000-07:00

. . . Lucky Number 22

Cindi (aka iring) said...

Thanks for the tip to use embossing paste on the back of a dry embossed stencil to preserve for mailing! Pretty projects! I like the sanded Core'dinations paper too. If I win I'd love to have the plum royale metallic f/x, the glossy red embossing paste and the LM250 Merry Christmas plate. Thanks!

October 3, 2010 8:05 AM

Congratulations, Cindi. You have until midnight Tuesday, October 5, to claim your prize, so make just one more hop to the Dream it Up blog for instructions.

And a big THANK YOU to all who joined us on the first Dreamweaver Stencils Blog Hop. I enjoyed sharing my projects with you and hope that you'll continue to check in on each of our blogs as we work with Lynell's beautiful designs to bring you more ideas and inspiration for your own projects.

Note: just in case there's any confusion, adding embossing paste to the back of a dry-embossed stencil is necessary only if you're using craft metal. The metal bends easily and the embossing could be damaged going through the postal mailing machines. Dry-embossed paper is not a problem, and holds up very well.

Happy crafting,
Liz

Welcome to Day 2 of the Dreamweaver Blog Hop

2010-10-02T00:30:00.000-07:00

I hope you've been enjoying yourself as you've moved from blog to blog. Here's what I've created for you.

Dreamweaver stencils are extremely versatile and pairing them with Core'dinations paper is just one of the many ways to achieve a different look. For this card I dry embossed the stocking stencil (LL 499) twice using my Sizzix Big Kick, once with Core'dinations red paper and once again with green. Both papers were sanded to allow the white paper core to show through. The stocking top was cut out of the green paper and adhered to the red with pop dots. Brads were added to the fringe and a stocking "hanger" was cut from a strip of green paper and adhered to the edge.

I've had a piece of copper craft metal in my stash for some time just waiting for the perfect stencil, and what a "joy" it was to use it for this Christmas card. I embossed the metal using my Big Kick, and trimmed the edges. Then using Copic markers, I colored the raised design to give it added dimension. Before adhering the metal to the card, I applied white matte embossing paste to the back. This preserves the image as it goes through the mail. You can find the stencil (LL328) here.

Edit: Applying embossing paste to the back of the dry embossed image is necessary only if you're using craft metal. The paste provides support for the raised image and keeps it from becoming damaged. Dry embossed paper holds up beautifully when sent through the mail and pasting the back is not necessary. Hope this clarifies my earlier post.

Many times, but especially around the holidays, I've needed a quick gift wrap or tag and wished I had something made and ready to go. Now there's no excuse because, again, Dreamweaver Stencils have come to the rescue! I love the candy cane (LL555) and am getting a lot of use out of it as a bottle hanger, gift bag and tag. In each case, I used glossy red embossing paste. For the bottle hanger, I applied translucent glitter while the paste was still wet. For the tag, I pasted only the bow. Now I just need to make more!

I hope you've enjoyed your visit. As reminder, please be sure to leave a comment below with your favorite stencil, paste and Mettalic F/X color to be included in the drawing. If you haven't already done so, visit the Dreamweaver blog, Dream it Up! and leave a comment there for another chance to win. Then, hop on over to Louise's blog, Artfully Articulate, to see her work and leave your comment there.

Today's the Day . . .

2010-10-01T00:53:00.000-07:00

. . . for the first-ever Dreamweaver Stencils blog hop, and are you in for a treat. The very talented ladies on the Dream Team have been working their magic and have beautiful cards, tags and altered items for you to look at. And, in addition to the eye candy you'll be seeing, you will have a chance to win BLOG CANDY! Here are the details:

You will have a chance to win your favorite stencil, embossing paste and Metallic F/X color. Each time you post along the hop, you need to leave a comment on the site where the newest creation is offered, then go to the Dreamweaver site, choose the stencil you like best, identify it to us, tell us why it's your favorite, and how you think you would use it. Just be sure to comment on each blog along the way to increase your chances of winning. But only one comment per blog, please. Duplicate entries will be deleted.

Each time you comment on a different blog, you need to choose a different stencil, paste, and Metallic F/X color, just in case you win more than once. At the end of the three days, each member of the Dream Team will choose a random entry via random.org and post it on their site by midnight on Monday, October 4.

Blog hoppers are encouraged to comment once on each designer's blog throughout the hop. Each time you do so will give you an extra chance to win. For an additional entry, you are invited to sign up to be a follower of the Dream it Up blog.

Different designers will be posting on different days, so check back on Sunday to be sure you've left a comment on each blog. That's all there is to it, so sit back with your favorite beverage and enjoy the hop. Start here at the Dream it Up blog and follow the links to each designer's blog.

Thanks for stopping by. Please be sure to leave a comment as I enjoy hear from you.

Happy crafting,
Liz

Christmas in September

2010-09-02T03:25:00.001-07:00

This started out as Christmas in August, but you know how time flies when you're having fun. And the Dreamweaver Christmas challenge was no exception

Dry embossing, ink, flat pearls and ribbon were all it took to make a very elegant card. Dreamweaver Stencil LJ900

This is probably one of my first stencil purchases and I absolutely love it. I used matte white embossing paste and, when dry, colored with metallic paint pens and Copic markers. Dreamweaver Stencil LG 676.

A card that is easy to mass produce, this one will definitely be available at my holiday craft fair booth. Dreamweaver stencil LG731 with metallic gold paste. I'm also going to try using the pearlescent paste and coloring the holly and berries with metallic f/x.

My favorite just might be the sleigh (LJ904). I used matte black embossing paste with metallic red leafing. The holly berries are not post-office friendly, so I'm working on some other alternatives.

Thanks for stopping by.

Liz