Sassy & Sweet Notes

The Challenge Chicks: Ice, ice baby!

If you're a stamper and you like challenges, or you're new to the idea of challenges and want to give one a whirl, I invite you to participate with The Challenge Chicks! We're a small group of friends and stampers hosting monthly challenges. Won't you join us?!

Our challenge for December 2015 has been issued by Lydia! The challenge topic is Ice, ice baby! Represent ice on your project by using something clear, like embossing powder, acetate, glaze, etc... I used Glossy Accents to give the trees on my tag a healthy (or not so healthy, I guess) layer of wintry ice!

You'll find this month's challenge gallery on SplitCoastStampers using keyword CHXDEC15. We invite you to play along! Upload your project to your SplitCoastStampers gallery, add the keyword above, and your project will be automatically added to the gallery. Or join us on Facebook!

We look forward to seeing your projects!

Supplies
Dies: Tree Landscape Layers and Pine Sprig Set from Impression Obsession
Paper: Neenah, Stampin' Up!
Ink: Ranger Antique Linen
Other: Ranger Glossy Accents, Red Velvet Bow

The Challenge Chicks: Splat!

If you're a stamper and you like challenges, or you're new to the idea of challenges and want to give one a whirl, I invite you to participate with The Challenge Chicks! We're a small group of friends and stampers hosting monthly challenges. Won't you join us?!

Our challenge for September 2015 has been issued by Jeanne! The challenge topic is Splat! Which I interpreted as a "splattering of colors", but you could also do watercolor or ink splatters. I made this card with the Sugarplum Angel image from Impression Obsession.

You'll find this month's challenge gallery on SplitCoastStampers using keyword CHXSEP15. We invite you to play along! Upload your project to your SplitCoastStampers gallery, add the keyword above, and your project will be automatically added to the gallery. Or join us on Facebook!

Now, get yourself a good dose of inspiration and check out the rest of The Challenge Chicks projects:

Anna Wight (That's me!)
Bev Gerard
Deb Felts
Holly McMillan
Lydia Fiedler
Kelly Schirmer
Kittie Caracciolo
Jeanne Streiff
Diane Zechman
Vicki Garrett

We look forward to seeing your projects!

Supplies
Stamps: Sugarplum Angel from Impression Obsession
Dies: Impression Obsession
Paper: Stampin' Up!, Neenah, American Crafts Glitter Paper
Other: Stickles Glitter Glue
Ink: Memento Black
ShinHan Touch Twin markers

The Challenge Chicks: Circles of Friendship

If you're a stamper and you like challenges, or you're new to the idea of challenges and want to give one a whirl, I invite you to participate with The Challenge Chicks! We're a small group of friends and stampers hosting monthly challenges. Won't you join us?!

Our challenge for August 2015 has been issued by Diane! The challenge topic is Circles of Friendship! (You can do circles, or friendship, or both!) I made this tag using my Feelin' Fishy cling mount set, available from Whipper Snapper Designs.

You'll find this month's challenge gallery on SplitCoastStampers using keyword CHXAUG15. We invite you to play along! Upload your project to your SplitCoastStampers gallery, add the keyword above, and your project will be automatically added to the gallery. Or join us on Facebook!

We have some new faces joining The Challenge Chicks!

Anna Wight (That's me!)
Bev Gerard
Dawn Lusk
Holly McMillan
Lydia Fiedler
Kelly Schirmer
Kelli Jo Hull
Kittie Caracciolo
Jeanne Streiff
Diane Zechman
Vicki Garrett

We look forward to seeing your projects!

Supplies
Stamps: Feelin' Fishy cling mount set, available from Whipper Snapper Designs
Dies: Spellbinders
Paper: October Afternoon, Stampin' Up!, Neenah
Ink: Memento Black
ShinHan Touch Twin markers

The Challenge Chicks: Blue Skies

If you're a stamper and you like challenges, or you're new to the idea of challenges and want to give one a whirl, I invite you to participate with The Challenge Chicks! We're a small group of friends and stampers hosting monthly challenges. Won't you join us?!

Our challenge for July 2015 has been issued by me! The challenge topic is Blue Skies! I love this Penny Black porker in her beach attire...

You'll find this month's challenge gallery on SplitCoastStampers using keyword CHXJUL15. We invite you to play along! Upload your project to your SplitCoastStampers gallery, add the keyword above, and your project will be automatically added to the gallery. Or join us on Facebook!

We look forward to seeing your projects!

Supplies
Stamps: Penny Black
Dies: Spellbinders
Paper: October Afternoon, Stampin' Up!, Neenah
Ink: Memento Black
ShinHan Touch Twin markers

The Challenge Chicks: Spring Bling

If you're a stamper and you like challenges, or you're new to the idea of challenges and want to give one a whirl, I invite you to participate with The Challenge Chicks! We're a small group of friends and stampers hosting monthly challenges. Won't you join us?!

Our challenge for March 2015 has been issued by Jeanne Streiff! The challenge topic is Spring Bling! I chose to make cards using the recently released bicycle2stamp set, recently released by The Stamps of Life.

In addition to the bicycle2stamp set, on this card I also used Eggs4Easter, which has that cute little chick and the grass.

Now, get yourself a good dose of inspiration and check out the rest of The Challenge Chicks projects:

Diane Zechman
Lydia Fiedler
Jeanne Streiff
Kelli Hull
Kelly Schirmer
Anna Wight (that's me!)

You'll find this month's challenge gallery on SplitCoastStampers using keyword CHXMAR15. We invite you to play along! Upload your project to your SplitCoastStampers gallery, add the keyword above, and your project will be automatically added to the gallery. Or join us on Facebook!

We look forward to seeing your projects!

Supplies
Stamps, Dies and Paper: The Stamps of Life
Ink: Memento Black, Jet Black StazOn
ShinHan Touch Twin markers

The Challenge Chicks: Make a Valentine

If you're a stamper and you like challenges, or you're new to the idea of challenges and want to give one a whirl, I invite you to participate with The Challenge Chicks! We're a small group of friends and stampers hosting monthly challenges. Won't you join us?!

Our challenge for February 2015 has been issued by Diane! The challenge topic is to Make a Valentine! I chose to make a simple Valentine treat bag using the cat2stamp set, recently released by The Stamps of Life. Such a fun kitty, that can be colored like your favorite feline.

Now, get yourself a good dose of inspiration and check out the rest of The Challenge Chicks projects:

Diane Zechman
Lydia Fiedler
Jeanne Streiff
Kelli Hull
Kelly Schirmer
Anna Wight (that's me!)

You'll find this month's challenge gallery on SplitCoastStampers using keyword CHXFEB15. We invite you to play along! Upload your project to your SplitCoastStampers gallery, add the keyword above, and your project will be automatically added to the gallery. Or join us on Facebook!

We look forward to seeing your projects!

Supplies
Stamps: Cat2Stamp from The Stamps of Life
Dies: Cat from The Stamps of Life
Paper: Red and White Cardstock from The Stamps of Life
Ink: Memento Black, Jet Black StazOn
ShinHan Touch Twin markers
Other: Tombow Mono-Multi Glue, Ribbon; Heart Treat Bag

The Challenge Chicks: Silver and/or Gold

If you're a stamper and you like challenges, or you're new to the idea of challenges and want to give one a whirl, I invite you to participate with The Challenge Chicks! We're a small group of friends and stampers hosting monthly challenges. Won't you join us?!

Our challenge for November 2014 has been issued by Kelly! The challenge topic is to make a Silver and/or Gold seasonal project. I chose to make a simple autumn inspired Post-it Note cover.

I used the Notepad Cover Bigz L die by Brenda Walton. I used my BigShot and two cutting plates to cut the cover from 80# cardstock.

Once the cardstock was cut, I folded the cover on the score lines that were created during the cutting process.

I used double sided adhesive on the back of a stack of Post-it Notes to adhere the stack to the newly created cover.

There is a nice opening made for tucking the point of the cover flap into, but I decided to change mine up a bit by using a little tiny mini velcro dot to hold the cover closed. I found the mini velcro dots in the sewing section of Walmart.

I used the die to cut several more laters of paper, including gold foil paper, so that I could embellish the cover. I adhered a button to the cover with a large glue dot. Clean and simple! And a nice small gift.

Now, get yourself a good dose of inspiration and check out the rest of The Challenge Chicks projects:

Diane Zechman
Lydia Fiedler
Jeanne Streiff
Kelli Hull
Kelly Schirmer
Anna Wight (that's me!)

You'll find this month's challenge gallery on SplitCoastStampers using keyword CHXNOV14. We invite you to play along! Upload your project to your SplitCoastStampers gallery, add the keyword above, and your project will be automatically added to the gallery. Or join us on Facebook!

We look forward to seeing your projects!

Supplies
Dies: Notebook Cover from Sizzix by Brenda Walton
Paper: American Crafts Foil, Autumn Crisp, SU Cardstock, Post-it Note
Other: Tombow Mono-Multi Glue, Sookwang adhesive, Zig Glue Dot, Mini Velcro, Button, Twine

The Challenge Chicks: Humor

If you're a stamper and you like challenges, or you're new to the idea of challenges and want to give one a whirl, I invite you to participate with The Challenge Chicks! We're a small group of friends and stampers hosting monthly challenges. Won't you join us?!

Our challenge for August 2014 has been issued by Diane! The challenge topic is Humor. We want you to tickle our funny bone!

Now, get yourself a good dose of inspiration and check out the rest of The Challenge Chicks projects:

Diane Zechman
Lydia Fiedler
Jeanne Streiff
Kelli Hull
Kelly Schirmer
Anna Wight (that's me!)

You'll find this month's challenge gallery on SplitCoastStampers using keyword CHXAUG14. We invite you to play along! Upload your project to your SplitCoastStampers gallery, add the keyword above, and your project will be automatically added to the gallery. Or join us on Facebook!

We look forward to seeing your projects!

Supplies
Stamps: Art Impressions, River City Rubber Works
Dies: Candle from The Stamps of Life, Banners from MFT
Ink: Memento Black, Jet Black StazOn
ShinHan Touch Twin markers
Paper: Neenah, Pebbles

The Challenge Chicks: Halloween in July

If you're a stamper and you like challenges, or you're new to the idea of challenges and want to give one a whirl, I invite you to participate with The Challenge Chicks! We're a small group of friends and stampers hosting monthly challenges. Won't you join us?!

Our challenge for July 2014 has been issued by me! The challenge topic is Halloween in July. I was tempted to issue a Christmas in July challenge, but that's been done. Everywhere. So, why not give a little love to Halloween!? (You can do fall/autumn if you don't do Halloween cards...)

For my card I used the Rickety House and Branch Tree Sizzix Bigz dies. I die cut the house and tree from black card stock. Behind the die cut shapes is a piece of watercolor paper that I painted/smooshed with various colors of Distress Ink. I also randomly stamped a Halloween sentiment on the background, from my Spooky Expressions cling mount set from Whipper Snapper Designs.

The ghost on the card is from my Happy Haunting cling mount set from Whipper Snapper Designs. He is stamped on Neenah card stock, colored with Touch Twin markers, cut out, and adhered to the card with foam adhesive. A fun mix of cute and spooky.... just how I like Halloween.

Now, get yourself a good dose of inspiration and check out the rest of The Challenge Chicks projects:

Diane Zechman
Lydia Fiedler
Jeanne Streiff
Kelli Hull
Kelly Schirmer
Anna Wight (that's me!)

You'll find this month's challenge gallery on SplitCoastStampers using keyword CHXJUL14. We invite you to play along! Upload your project to your SplitCoastStampers gallery, add the keyword above, and your project will be automatically added to the gallery. Or join us on Facebook!

We look forward to seeing your projects!

Supplies
Stamps: Happy Haunting and Spooky Expressions cling mount sets from Whipper Snapper Designs
Dies: Rickety House and Branch Tree Sizzix Bigz
Ink: Distress Inks
ShinHan Touch Twin markers
Paper: Fabriano 100% Cotton Cold Press Watercolor paper; Neenah
Other: Gingham Ribbon, Niji Waterbrush

The Challenge Chicks: Catching Fireflies, Light

If you're a stamper and you like challenges, or you're new to the idea of challenges and want to give one a whirl, I invite you to participate with The Challenge Chicks! We're a small group of friends and stampers hosting monthly challenges. Won't you join us?!

Our challenge for June 2014 has been issued by Lydia! The challenge topic is Catching Fireflies, or Light. I most often capture light on my projects by the use of highlights and shadows, like on this colored Penny Black image.

By using various intensity of colors, even on white areas, you can really give the impression of light. Or sunlight, as I've chosen for this image.

Now, get yourself a good dose of inspiration and check out the rest of The Challenge Chicks projects:

Diane Zechman
Lydia Fiedler
Jeanne Streiff
Kelli Hull
Kelly Schirmer
Anna Wight (that's me!)

You'll find this month's challenge gallery on SplitCoastStampers using keyword CHXJUN14. We invite you to play along! Upload your project to your SplitCoastStampers gallery, add the keyword above, and your project will be automatically added to the gallery. Or join us on Facebook!

We look forward to seeing your projects!

The Challenge Chicks: Cause a Scene

If you're a stamper and you like challenges, or you're new to the idea of challenges and want to give one a whirl, I invite you to participate with The Challenge Chicks! We're a small group of friends and stampers hosting monthly challenges. Won't you join us?!

Our challenge for May 2014 has been issued by Kelly! The challenge topic is Causing a Scene - to make a spring/summer scene card or project. I used recently released stamps and dies from The Stamps of Life to create this beach scene.

My favorite part of this card are those little sea star die cuts! So CUTE!

Now, get yourself a good dose of inspiration and check out the rest of The Challenge Chicks projects:

Diane Zechman
Lydia Fiedler
Jeanne Streiff
Kelli Hull
Kelly Schirmer
Anna Wight (that's me!)

You'll find this month's challenge gallery on SplitCoastStampers using keyword CHXMAY14. We invite you to play along! Upload your project to your SplitCoastStampers gallery, add the keyword above, and your project will be automatically added to the gallery. Or join us on Facebook!

We look forward to seeing your projects!

 

Supplies
Stamps: The Stamps of Life
Ink: Jet Black StazOn, Distress Inks
Paper: The Stamps of Life, Neenah, American Crafts, Bazzil
Dies: The Stamps of Life
Other: Button, Twine

The Challenge Chicks: Miss You

If you're a stamper and you like challenges, or you're new to the idea of challenges and want to give one a whirl, I invite you to participate with The Challenge Chicks! We're a small group of friends and stampers hosting monthly challenges. Won't you join us?!

Our challenge for April 2014 has been issued by Kelli! The challenge topic is Ain't No Sunshine When She's Gone (a Miss You card)!

I used all kinds of things to create my card! The butterfly embellishment was made using the new Sizzix "Heart Pendant" Bigz die, by Brenda Walton. I used part of some Sizzix clear packaging, die cut the butterfly shape twice, added a few white spots to one of them, and adhered them together with foam adhesive. I added a button to the center, threaded with hemp twine.

The butterfly is adhered to an office tag that I tea dyed. I use a lot of these tea dyed tags during the holidays. Also attached to the office tag is a hand-cut fishtail banner. The sentiment stamped on the banner is from my Everyday Sentiments cling mount set, from Whipper Snapper Designs. I added a hand-dyed seam binding bow to the top of the tag.

The background of the card is painted, stamped, and inked watercolor paper. I was experimenting with one of my Yarka watercolor pigment pan sets last night, and created a sheet of randomly colored squares. I thought the squares created an interesting color pattern, so I cut the sheet down and used part of it on my card. For added interest, I inked the edges with brown Distress Ink, stamped it with the Impression Obsession Script Cover-A-Card rubber stamp, added a couple of postmark stamp impressions, and finally added some white gesso splatters.

I had fun making this card -- a bit different from my "usual".

Now, get yourself a good dose of inspiration and check out the rest of The Challenge Chicks projects:

Diane Zechman
Lydia Fiedler
Jeanne Streiff
Kelli Hull (Post will be up Sunday afternoon)
Kelly Schirmer (Post will be up Sunday afternoon)
Anna Wight (that's me!)

You'll find this month's challenge gallery on SplitCoastStampers using keyword CHXAPR14. We invite you to play along! Upload your project to your SplitCoastStampers gallery, add the keyword above, and your project will be automatically added to the gallery. Or join us on Facebook!

We look forward to seeing your projects!

 

Supplies
Stamps: Script CAD (Impression Obsession); Everyday Sentiments (Whipper Snapper Designs); Postmark (Hampton Arts)
Ink: Jet Black StazOn, Distress Inks
Paper: Fabriano 100% Cotton Cold Press Watercolor paper, Neenah, Office Tag
Dies: Sizzix Heart Pendant
Other: Button, Seam Binding, Gesso, Yarka Watercolor Pan Set

The Challenge Chicks: Spring Flowers

If you're a stamper and you like challenges, or you're new to the idea of challenges and want to give one a whirl, I invite you to participate with The Challenge Chicks! We're a small group of friends and stampers hosting monthly challenges. Won't you join us?!

Our challenge for March 2014 has been issued by Jeanne! The challenge topic is Spring Flowers!

I used the recently released Crazy4Daisies set from The Stamps of Life to create this totally wild floral card! For the leaves behind the flowers, I used the Leaves stamp/die set from Sizzix.

Now, get yourself a good dose of inspiration and check out the rest of The Challenge Chicks projects:

Diane Zechman
Lydia Fiedler
Jeanne Streiff
Kelli Hull
Kelly Schirmer
Anna Wight (that's me!)

You'll find this month's challenge gallery on SplitCoastStampers using keyword CHXMAR14. We invite you to play along! Upload your project to your SplitCoastStampers gallery, add the keyword above, and your project will be automatically added to the gallery. Or join us on Facebook!

We look forward to seeing your projects!

The Challenge Chicks: My Furry Valentine (and Video)

If you're a stamper and you like challenges, or you're new to the idea of challenges and want to give one a whirl, I invite you to participate with The Challenge Chicks! We're a small group of friends and stampers hosting monthly challenges. Won't you join us?!

Our challenge for February 2014 is issued by Diane! She is challenging us with the topic of My Furry Valentine, and asks us to make a Valentine using a critter themed image. I love this topic because not only do I love using critter themed stamps, but I also love making little projects for critters in our immediate and extended family! 

For my project I decided to make little dog treat pouches with Valentine themed toppers. I used my Twiggy stamp on one, and a Penny Black stamp on the other. These pouches are quick, easy and FUN! to put together.

If you'd like to see other toppers I've made, here are a few links for you:
Halloween Treats
Puppy Love
Christmas Wraps for Pets - Woof!
Treat Toppers for Humans
Treat Toppers for Dogs
Treat Toppers for Furry Friends
Treat Toppers for Furry Friends Part 2

And finally, in this video I share a few more details on the products I've used to make these fun teats.

If you have trouble viewing the video here on my blog, you can also find it on my YouTube Channel.

Now, get yourself a good dose of inspiration and check out the rest of The Challenge Chicks projects:

Diane Zechman
Lydia Fiedler
Jeanne Streiff
Kelli Hull
Kelly Schirmer
Anna Wight (that's me!)

You'll find this month's challenge gallery on SplitCoastStampers using keyword CHXFEB14. We invite you to play along! Upload your project to your SplitCoastStampers gallery, add the keyword above, and your project will be automatically added to the gallery. Or join us on Facebook!

We look forward to seeing your projects!

 

Supplies
Stamp: Twiggy from Whipper Snapper Designs, Good Boy! from Penny Black
Dies: Sizzix Labels 6; Spellbinders Circle, Scalloped Circle, and Asian Accents
Paper: Crate Paper, Neenah
Ink: Black StazOn
Albrecht Durer 120 Watercolor Pencil Set
Other: Crochet Thread, Studio G Glitter Glue, Ultra Fine Diamond Dust Glitter, Darice Foam Conversation Hearts, Heart Gem, Button

The Challenge Chicks: Winter Wonderland

Welcome to a new year of Challenge Chicks challenges! If you're a stamper and you like challenges, or you're new to the idea of challenges and want to give one a whirl, I invite you to participate with The Challenge Chicks! We're a small group of friends and stampers hosting monthly challenges. Won't you join us?!

Our challenge for January 2014 is issued by me! I'm not ready to let go of winter just yet, so January is all about Winter Wonderland! For my project I used the Trophy Ice Skates die from Sizzix to create a refridgerator magnet. I adhered patterned paper to chipboard and ran the die and chipboard through my BigShot.

Once the shapes were cut, I inked the edges a bit, colored the heel and blade on each skate with markers, and embellished with laces, sparkly twigs, baubles, a tag and glittery bell. I glued two strong magnets on the back so it would have some holding power while on the fridge.

And as an added bonus for you, here are two wool felt ornaments my Mom made with the same Sizzix die while I was visiting her and Dad for Christmas. Beautiful, don't you agree!?

Now, get yourself a good dose of inspiration and check out the rest of The Challenge Chicks projects:

Diane Zechman
Lydia Fiedler
Jeanne Streiff
Kelli Hull
Kelly Schirmer
Anna Wight (that's me!)

And finally, you'll find this month's challenge gallery on SplitCoastStampers using keyword CHXJAN14 . We invite you to play along! Upload your project to your SplitCoastStampers gallery, add the keyword above, and your project will be automatically added to the gallery. Or join us on Facebook!

We look forward to seeing your projects!

 

Supplies for Magnet
Dies: Sizzix Trophy Ice Skates, Spellbinders Tag
Stamp: A Muse
Paper: American Crafts, chipboard, Neenah
Ink: Ranger Distress Ink in Brushed Corduroy, Black StazOn
ShinHan Touch Twin markers: BG7, WG9
Other: Hemp twine, Glittered decor pics, tracing wheel, bell, magnets

Supplies for Felt Ornaments
Dies: Sizzix Trophy Ice Skates, Spellbinders leaves
Other: Wool felt, button, DMC floss

The Challenge Chicks: Shed Winter Layers

If you're a stamper and you like challenges, or you're new to the idea of challenges and want to give one a whirl, I invite you to participate with The Challenge Chicks! We're a small group of friends and stampers hosting monthly challenges. Won't you join us?!

Our challenge for December 2013 is issued by Lydia! She asked us to shed winter layers by making a one layer card that has nothing to do with winter! The perfect time for clean and simple! For my project I used a 4x4 blue and white notecard from AMuse, a sentiment from AMuse, and my Birds on a Wire stamp from Whipper Snapper Designs. The image is stamped across the notecard and colored with markers. Underneath the card, you can see the envelope, on which I drew a chubby bird on a long branch, and colored it up with markers.

For a second project I used a cute Penny Black stamp that I stamped in black StazOn ink and watercolored. The sentiment is another oldie-but-goodie from AMuse.

Now, get yourself a good dose of inspiration and check out the rest of The Challenge Chicks projects:

Diane Zechman
Lydia Fiedler
Jeanne Streiff
Kelli Hull
Kelly Schirmer
Anna Wight (that's me!)

And finally, you'll find this month's challenge gallery on SplitCoastStampers using keyword CHXDEC13 . We invite you to play along! Upload your project to your SplitCoastStampers gallery, add the keyword above, and your project will be automatically added to the gallery. Or join us on Facebook!

We look forward to seeing your projects!

The Challenge Chicks: A Sketch

If you're a stamper and you like challenges, or you're new to the idea of challenges and want to give one a whirl, I invite you to participate with The Challenge Chicks! We're a small group of friends and stampers hosting monthly challenges. Won't you join us?!

Our challenge for November 2013 is a sketch, issued by Kelly! She asked us to use the sketch to make a thank you card. You can keep the sketch as clean and simple as you'd like, or really go nuts embellishing your project!

For my project, I chose to use one of my favorite fall themed Whipper Snapper Designs stamps, Farm Scarecrow. The image is stamped in black Memento ink, and colored with ShinHan Touch Twin markers. I used harvest themed paper from a 6x6 Recollections paper pad called Harvest Delight.

I used leaves I cut from various colors of card stock, some American Crafts harvest themed ribbon, and a beautiful button from a recent RAK (Random Act of Kindness) I received from Carol Dee. Thank you, Carol Dee!!

Now, get yourself a good dose of inspiration and check out the rest of The Challenge Chicks projects:

Diane Zechman
Lydia Fiedler
Jeanne Streiff
Kelli Hull
Kelly Schirmer
Anna Wight (that's me!)

And finally, you'll find this month's challenge gallery on SplitCoastStampers using keyword CHXNOV13 . We invite you to play along! Upload your project to your SplitCoastStampers gallery, add the keyword above, and your project will be automatically added to the gallery. Or join us on Facebook!

We look forward to seeing your projects!

The Challenge Chicks: Halloween, with a twist!

If you're a stamper and you like challenges, or you're new to the idea of challenges and want to give one a whirl, I invite you to participate with The Challenge Chicks! We're a small group of friends and stampers hosting monthly challenges. Won't you join us?!

Our challenge for October 2013 is being shared today! This month's challenge is Halloween, but there's a twist! It's Halloween with NO Orange, NO Green, and NO Purple!

For my project, I chose to use a few of my Whipper Snapper Designs Halloween themed stamps. For the background image, I used Halloween Toss stamped in black StazOn ink on paper from the My Mind's Eye 6x6 Mischievous paper pad. I added a strip of black glitter ribbon for a little pizazz. The sentiment is from my Spooky Expressions cling mount set. I love when I finally get to pull this set out for projects!!

I hand cut the sentiment banner...

...and added a cute black pumpkin die cut under the black button for a little something extra. The pumpkin die is from The Stamps of Life.

On the inside of the card, I added another sentiment from the Spooky Expressions cling mount set, and stamped the dangly spider from the same set.

Now, get yourself a good dose of inspiration and check out the rest of The Challenge Chicks projects:

Diane Zechman
Lydia Fiedler
Jeanne Streiff
Kelli Hull
Kelly Schirmer
Anna Wight (that's me!)

And finally, you'll find this month's challenge gallery on SplitCoastStampers using keyword CHXOCT13 . We invite you to play along! Upload your project to your SplitCoastStampers gallery, add the keyword above, and your project will be automatically added to the gallery. Or join us on Facebook!

We look forward to seeing your projects!

Bee in a Window Card (Video)

Good morning, and happy Labor Day! I did a little crafting last night and made a video! A simple Bee in a Window card, and it also goes with this month's Challenge Chicks theme, using Die Cuts. Watch if you'd like...

And, if you enjoyed my crafty goodies video last week, you might enjoy the follow-up video... yup, a few more goodies to share!

If you're having trouble viewing the videos here on my blog, you can check them out on my YouTube channel.

A Monday off work is the best Monday of all!

Have a great day!

 

Supplies
Stamp: Bee4Me Stamps and Dies (The Stamps of Life)
Ink: Memento Black
Dies: Lights4Christmas (The Stamps of Life), Fancy Frame (Sizzix)
Paper: The Paper Patch, The Stamps of Life, Neenah
ShinHan Touch Twin markers: Y36, Y34, PB144, R136
Other: tracing wheel, bakers twine, button (Stampin' Up!), Sprinkles! Glitter (The Stamps of Life), 2-Way Glue Pen, Tombo Mono Multi Glue

The Challenge Chicks: Die Cuts!

If you're a stamper and you like challenges, or you're new to the idea of challenges and want to give one a whirl, I invite you to participate with The Challenge Chicks! We're a small group of friends and stampers hosting monthly challenges. Won't you join us?!

Our challenge for September 2013 is being shared today!

This month's challenge is to use Die Cuts on your project! I chose to use several on this project to create a fun Christmas card with a bit of a country feel. First, I die cut a window on the front of my card using a framelit die from Sizzix. Then I created the light using the light background and light parts dies from The Stamps of Life. I "hung" the light across the window using hemp cord attached to the sides of the window with buttons. The sentiment banner is also a die cut that I added faux stitching to, and decorated with a cute brown button.

Now, get yourself a good dose of inspiration and check out the rest of The Challenge Chicks projects:

Diane Zechman
Lydia Fiedler
Jeanne Streiff
Kelli Hull
Kelly Schirmer
Anna Wight (that's me!)

And finally, you'll find this month's challenge gallery on SplitCoastStampers using keyword CHXSEP13 . We invite you to play along! Upload your project to your SplitCoastStampers gallery, add the keyword above, and your project will be automatically added to the gallery. Or join us on Facebook!

We look forward to seeing your projects!

 

Supplies
Stamp: Lights4Christmas (The Stamps of Life)
Ink: Memento Black, Stazon Black
Dies: Lights4Christmas (The Stamps of Life), Fancy Frame (Sizzix), Banners #2 (Sizzix)
Paper: Simple Stories, The Stamps of Life, Bazzil
ShinHan Touch Twin markers: CG1
Other: Tracing Wheel, Hemp Twine, Buttons

The Challenge Chicks: Flowers!

If you're a stamper and you like challenges, or you're new to the idea of challenges and want to give one a whirl, I invite you to participate with The Challenge Chicks! We're a small group of friends and stampers hosting monthly challenges. Won't you join us?!

Our challenge for August 2013 is being shared today!

This month's challenge is Flowers!

For my project, I chose one of my all-time favorite Whipper Snapper images, Three Flower Friend.

I stamped the image in brown Memento ink and colored it with Touch Twin markers.

Now, get yourself a good dose of flowery inspiration and check out the rest of The Challenge Chicks projects:

Diane Zechman
Lydia Fiedler
Jeanne Streiff
Kelli Hull
Kelly Schirmer
Anna Wight (that's me!)

And finally, you'll find this month's challenge gallery on SplitCoastStampers using keyword CHXAUG13 . We invite you to play along! Upload your project to your SplitCoastStampers gallery, add the keyword above, and your project will be automatically added to the gallery. Or join us on Facebook!

We look forward to seeing your projects!

 

Supplies
Stamp: Whipper Snapper (Three Flower Friend)
Ink: Memento Brown
Paper: Neenah, Hampton Art, Stampin Up!
ShinHan Touch Twin markers: BR109, Y36, CG0.5, GY48, GY175, R18, R136, BR107, BR103, BR97, YR31, BR95, R13, R135, Y35, Y37, Y44
Other: Tracing Wheel, Hemp Twine, Button, Labels Fancy #4 Die by Stephanie Barnard for Sizzix

The Challenge Chicks: Christmas in July

If you're a stamper and you like challenges, or you're new to the idea of challenges and want to give participating a whirl, I invite you to participate with The Challenge Chicks! We're a small group of friends and stampers hosting monthly challenges. Won't you join us?!

Our challenge for July 2013 is being shared today!

This month's challenge is Christmas in July!

For my project I chose a cute High Hopes image, and added an old sentiment from A*Muse.

Now, get yourself a good dose of inspiration and check out the rest of The Challenge Chicks projects:

Diane Zechman
Lydia Fiedler
Jeanne Streiff
Kelli Hull
Kelly Schirmer
Anna Wight (that's me!)

And finally, you'll find this month's challenge gallery on SplitCoastStampers using keyword CHXJULY13 . We invite you to play along! Upload your project to your SplitCoastStampers gallery, add the keyword above, and your project will be automatically added to the gallery. Or join us on Facebook!

We look forward to seeing your projects!

 

Supplies
Stamp: High Hopes (image), A*Muse (sentiment)
Ink: Memento Black, Brown Distress Ink
Paper: Neenah, JilliBean Soup, Bo Bunny
ShinHan Touch Twin markers: BR107, BR104, BR103, BR97, BR92, R2, R3, YR31, CG.5, CG1, CG2, BG1, BG3, R136
Other: Tracing Wheel, Twine, Button, May Arts Ribbon, Glue Dots, PTI Tag Die, Labels Fancy #4 Die by Stephanie Barnard for Sizzix

The Challenge Chicks: Here Comes the Sun!

If you're a stamper and you like challenges, or you're new to the idea of challenges and want to give participating a whirl, I invite you to participate with The Challenge Chicks! We're a small group of friends and stampers hosting monthly challenges. Won't you join us?!

Our challenge for June 2013 is being shared today!

This month's challenge is hosted by Lydia: Here Comes the Sun! Use yellow, white and orange with a bonus option of an actual image of the sun.

For my project, I chose to use a trio of patterned paper by October Afternoon to create a faux quilted background. I used my tracing wheel to create stitch patterns on the paper. The girl is one of the Farm Girl images from the October Afternoon Shape Stickers sheet. The sentiment is from one of my all-time favorite Whipper Snapper cling sets called Sunnyside Up.

Now, get yourself a good dose of inspiration and check out the rest of The Challenge Chicks projects:

Diane Zechman
Lydia Fiedler
Jeanne Streiff
Kelli Hull
Kelly Schirmer
Anna Wight (that's me!)

And finally, you'll find this month's challenge gallery on SplitCoastStampers using keyword CHXJUNE13 . We invite you to play along! Upload your project to your SplitCoastStampers gallery, add the keyword above, and your project will be automatically added to the gallery. Or join us on Facebook!

We look forward to seeing your projects!

 

Supplies
Stamp: Sunnyside Up by Whipper Snapper Designs
Ink: StazOn Black
Paper: Neenah, October Afternoon
Other: Tracing Wheel, Baker's Twine in Yellow

The Challenge Chicks: Color Challenge!

If you're a stamper and you like challenges, or you're new to the idea of challenges and want to give participating a whirl, I invite you to participate with The Challenge Chicks! We're a small group of friends and stampers hosting monthly challenges. Won't you join us?!

Our challenge for May 2013 is being shared today!

This month's challenge is hosted by Diane and she chose to host a color challenge!

For my project, I chose a beautiful floral patterned paper by Crate Paper. It contains all the necessary colors for the challenge, which helped the rest of my card come together quickly!

Here is the color map for the challenge. If you're a Stampin' Up! brand crafter, the colors are Chocolate Chip, Soft Sky, Crushed Curry and Tangerine. If your'e not a Stampin' Up! brand crafter, just do your best to match the colors. You'll see the blue I used on my card is a bit more "blue", and that's Ok! *grin*

Now, get yourself a good dose of inspiration and check out the rest of The Challenge Chicks projects:

Diane Zechman
Lydia Fiedler
Jeanne Streiff
Kelli Hull
Kelly Schirmer
Vicki Gee
Anna Wight (that's me!)

And finally, you'll find this month's challenge gallery on SplitCoastStampers using keyword CHXMAY13 . We invite you to play along! Upload your project to your SplitCoastStampers gallery, add the keyword above, and your project will be automatically added to the gallery. Or join us on Facebook!

We look forward to seeing your projects!

 

Supplies
Stamp: MiniTags2Cut by The Stamps of Life
Ink: Chocolate, Stephanie Barnard ColorBox
Paper: Neenah, Paper Accents, Farmhouse floral print by Crate Paper (6x6)
Dies: MiniTags2Cut by The Stamps of Life
Other: Tracing Wheel, May Arts twine, buttons

The Challenge Chicks: Spring Cleaning!

If you're a stamper and you like challenges, or you're new to the idea of challenges and want to give participating a whirl, I invite you to participate with The Challenge Chicks! We're a small group of friends and stampers hosting monthly challenges. Won't you join us?!

Our challenge for April 2013 is being shared today!

This month's challenge is hosted by Kelly: Spring Cleaning!
Gather up supplies from your stash -- OLD supplies! And put them to use!

For my project I chose to use a couple of old, favorite, Stampin' Up stamps. The main image is from the 1999 set called Seasonal Shelves, and the chickenwire background image was also released in 1999. The little country friend stamp I included in the photo is an old PSX stamp. I came across it while I was looking for things I wanted to use for this project, and I decided to pull it out and keep it handy so I could use it on envelopes.

These aren't the OLDEST images in my collection, but they are a couple of my favorite. I love so many of the country themed images Stampin' Up used to carry. For me, they're timeless.

I also used an OLD paper mat stack I've had in my stash for AGES! I'm fairly certain I bought this in 2006. I love the earthy colors, and they were perfect for my country themed card.

In the spirit of the Spring Cleaning theme, I also spent a bit of time tidying up a few of my storage drawers. My sticker drawers got a good straightening up...

...as did my 6x6 paper storage drawers.

Now, get yourself a good dose of Spring Cleaning fun and check out the rest of The Challenge Chicks projects:

Diane Zechman
Lydia Fiedler
Jeanne Streiff
Kelli Hull
Kelly Schirmer
Vicki Gee
Anna Wight (that's me!)

And finally, you'll find this month's challenge gallery on SplitCoastStampers using keyword CHXAPR13 . We invite you to play along! Upload your project to your SplitCoastStampers gallery, add the keyword above, and your project will be automatically added to the gallery. Or join us on Facebook!

We look forward to seeing your projects!

 

Supplies
Stamp: Seasonal Shelves and Chicken Wire, Stampin' Up! (1999)
Ink: Memento Black, Antique Linen & Vintage Photo Distress Ink
Paper: Neenah, DCWV Mat Stack
ShinHan Touch Twin markers: BR107, BR103, BR102, BR104, BR100, CG7, R2, R3, YR21, Y36, YR31, WG.5, WG3, 120, PB144, BG179, B68, PB76, Y42, PB75, Y34
Other: Tracing Wheel, May Arts twine

The Challenge Chicks: It's Not Easy Being Green!

If you're a stamper and you like challenges, or you're new to the idea of challenges and want to give one a whirl, I invite you to participate with The Challenge Chicks! We're a small group of friends and stampers hosting monthly challenges. Won't you join us?!

Our challenge for March 2013 is being shared today: It's Not Easy Being Green!

I chose to re-purpose a few items and made something that gives my selected items an entirely new purpose! For my project I used the cardboard core from a roll of packing tape, a wooden lid from a jar candle, and chipboard from a box of Alan's favorite fiber bars to create this little "masculine" themed container.

I covered the packing tape core with paper from The Paper Loft. The base of the container is made from two scalloped die cut circles (adhered together) from a fiber bar box. The lid from the jar candle fit PERFECTLY inside the packing tape core.

This will be fun to fill with little chocolate goodies, or even a small gift for a birthday or Christmas!

Now get yourself a good dose of some "green" fun and check out the rest of The Challenge Chicks projects:

Diane Zechman
Lydia Fiedler
Jeanne Streiff
Kelli Hull
Kelly Schirmer
Anna Wight (that's me!)

And, finally, you'll find this month's challenge gallery on SplitCoastStampers using keyword CHXMAR13. We invite you to play along! Upload your project to your SplitCoastStampers gallery, add the keyword above, and your project will be automatically added to the gallery. Or join us on Facebook!

We look forward to seeing your projects!

 

Supplies
Paper: The Paper Loft
Ink: Ranger Brushed Corduroy
Other: Spellbinders Scalloped Circle die, tracing wheel, reclaimed lid, tape core, box chipboard

The Challenge Chicks: Valentines!

If you're a stamper and you like challenges, or you're new to the idea of challenges and want to give participating a whirl, I invite you to participate with The Challenge Chicks! We're a small group of friends and stampers hosting monthly challenges. Won't you join us?!

Our challenge for February 2013 is being shared today!

This month's challenge is easy:  Valentines!

For my project, I pulled out one of my Whipper Snapper cling mount sets, Bear Hugs. Dressed up in his bowtie, he looks like he's ready for some Valentine lovin' to me!

He's stamped in Memento ink and colored with Touch Twin markers. The rose, sentiment, and speech bubble are images also found in the Bear Hugs set. It was fun to create this little scene.

And, how about a bonus project!? I wrapped a conversation candy heart treat box with card stock, added a printed paper panel, and created the tag using an image from the Stampin' Up set called Gift Givers. Pretty simple, and a whole lot cuter than the printed box!

Now get yourself a good dose of some Valentine fun and check out the rest of The Challenge Chicks projects:

Diane Zechman
Lydia Fiedler
Jeanne Streiff
Kelli Hull
Kelly Schirmer
Anna Wight (that's me!)

And, finally, you'll find this month's challenge gallery on SplitCoastStampers using keyword CHXFEB13. We invite you to play along! Upload your project to your SplitCoastStampers gallery, add the keyword above, and your project will be automatically added to the gallery. Or join us on Facebook!

We look forward to seeing your projects!

 

Supplies (Bear)
Stamps: Whipper Snapper "Bear Hugs"
Paper: Neenah, BoBunny, Bazzill
ShinHan Touch Twin markers
Ink: Memento Black, Antique Linen Distress Ink
Other: Bakers Twine, Tracing Wheel, Dress-it-Up Button, string

Supplies (Box)
Stamps: Stampin' Up! "Gift Givers"
Paper: Stampin' Up!, K&Company
ShinHan Touch Twin markers
Ink: Memento Black
Other: Stampin' Up! Scallop Circle Punch, EK Success Circle Punch, Bakers Twine, Tracing Wheel

A Snowy Thank You

I made this snowy thank you card using a very simple, but oh so cute, snowman image I picked up a few years ago at Hobby Lobby. He was in a little 4 stamp set that was availble in their Christmas crafts section, and he remains one of my favorite snow fellas!

I really love using the inverted scallop circle dies by Spellbinders. I didn't think I would use them as much as I have, but I really do enjoy them! They add a fun look, and are a bit different than a lot of other stampers use on a regular basis.

Oh, and by the way, this card also qualifies for this month's Challenge Chicks challenge: SNOWMEN!

You'll find this month's Challenge Chicks challenge gallery on SplitCoastStampers using keyword CHXJAN13 . We invite you to play along! Upload your project to your SplitCoastStampers gallery, add the keyword above, and your project will be automatically added to the gallery. Or join us on Facebook!

Happy FRIDAY!!

 

Supplies:
Stamps: Hobby Lobby (snowman); A Muse (snowflake); Lawn Fawn (speech bubble); Stampin' Up! (sentiment)
Paper: The Paper Loft, Neeneh, Bazzill
ShinHan Touch Twin markers: CG1, CG3, PB74, Y36, YR32, YR23, PB144
Ink: Memento Black, Ranger Antique Linen Distress Ink
Other: Two-Way Glue, Martha Stewart Fine Crystal Glitter, Button, Creative Impressions Twine, tracing wheel

The Challenge Chicks: Snowmen

If you're a stamper and you like challenges, or you're new to the idea of challenges and want to give participating a whirl, I invite you to participate with The Challenge Chicks! We're a small group of friends and stampers hosting monthly challenges. Won't you join us?!

Our challenge for January 2013 is being shared today!

This month's challenge is easy:  Snowmen!

For my project, I pulled out one of my favorite Whipper Snapper snowman stamps, Rootin Tootin Snowman. I paired him with a cute sentiment from the old A Muse line (prior to them becoming A Muse Studio). It reads "I love frosty nights, snowy days and warm hearts". 

And it's true ... I do!

I also used a fairly old Memory Box stamp as a subtle background behind the snowman. The pattern of the stamp reminds me of how frost starts forming on cold windows.

I used several strands of May Arts dark brown twine to create the bow. Extra fuzzy, extra fun!

And, how about a bonus project!? I created this clean and simple card using an image and sentiment from Inky Antics.

Now get yourself a good dose of snowman fun and check out the rest of The Challenge Chicks projects:

Diane Zechman
Lydia Fiedler
Jeanne Streiff
Kelli Hull
Kelly Schirmer
Vicki Gee
Anna Wight (that's me!)

And, finally, you'll find this month's challenge gallery on SplitCoastStampers using keyword CHXJAN13 . We invite you to play along! Upload your project to your SplitCoastStampers gallery, add the keyword above, and your project will be automatically added to the gallery. Or join us on Facebook!

We look forward to seeing your snowmen projects!

 

Supplies (Rootin Tootin Snowman)
Stamps: Whipper Snapper "Rootin Tootin Snowman", A Muse "Frosty Nights", Memory Box "Shiny Snowflake"
Paper: Neenah, Cosmo Cricket's Art Angel series, Stampin' Up! Chocolate Chip
ShinHan Touch Twin markers
Ink: Memento Brown, Antique Linen Distress Ink
Other: Corner Chomper, May Arts twine, Tracing Wheel

Supplies (Snowman Quad)
Stamps: Inky Antics
Paper: Fabriano Note Card, Neenah, Bazzill
ShinHan Touch Twin markers
Ink: Memento Black
Other: Studio G Glitter Glue, Tracing Wheel

Winter/Christmas Themed Tags

More holiday tags, and they're being featured on the Inky Antics blog today. How fun is that! Consider these a bonus project for this month's Challenge Chicks theme!

 

Supplies
Stamps: Inky Antics
Paper: Neenah, Simple Stories, Stampin' Up!
ShinHan Touch Twin Markers
Ink: Memento Black, Antique Linen Distress Ink, Gathered Twigs Distress Ink
Other: PTI tag die, twine, buttons, Tracing Wheel

The Challenge Chicks: Christmas Tags

If you're a stamper and you like challenges, or you're new to the idea of challenges and want to give participating a whirl, I invite you to participate with The Challenge Chicks! We're a small group of stampers hosting monthly challenges.

Won't you join us?! Our first monthly challenge is being shared today!

This month's challenge is timely, and easy: Christmas Tags!

I used a couple of my Whipper Snapper cling sets to create four coordinating gift tags. I'll tell ya who's great at making tags ... Danielle Lounds

I used a Sizzix die for the base of the tags, and Spellbinders pinking and standard circle dies for around the image. Old mother of pearl buttons and some punched out holly leaves add a little bit of detail to each tag. These tags will come in handy later this month!

Check out the rest of The Challenge Chicks projects:

Diane Zechman
Lydia Fiedler
Jeanne Streiff
Kelli Hull
Kelly Schirmer
Vicki Gee
Anna Wight (that's me!)

 

And, finally, you'll find this month's challenge gallery on SplitCoastStampers using keyword CHXDEC12 . We invite you to play along! Upload your project to your SplitCoastStampers gallery, add the keyword above, and your project will be automatically added to the gallery. We look forward to seeing your holiday tags!

 

PS: Please excuse the odd lighting in these photos. I have two different kinds of light bulbs in the lamps on my desk, and it's really playing games with the light sensor in my camera.

Note to self: buy new light bulbs!

 

Supplies
Stamps: Whipper Snapper "Gardening Snowman" and "Think Snow" cling sets
Paper: Neenah, October Afternoon, Paper Accents
ShinHan Touch Twin Markers
Ink: Memento Black, Antique Linen Distress Ink
Other: Sizzix tag die, Spellbinders dies, Martha Steward holly punch, string, antique mother of pearl buttons, Tracing Wheel