Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps

Hearts Galore!

2012-02-09T05:00:00.059-05:00

Hello, it's Bridget here, with a focus on "hearts" today - Valentines Day is only a few days away, but I've been having so much fun with Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps Heart Die set making cards for all kinds of occasions!

I used the largest of the set of 9 to cut a gingham heart and popped it up over a birthday sentiment which is from the super useful set Poppies and Greetings. All the edges have been sponged with Ranger Distress Frayed Burlap for a vintage look.

Supplies used include:

Sweet n' Sassy Stamps Heart Die set

Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps Poppies and Greetings

Spellbinders Nestabilities Circles

My Favorite Things Dizzy Doily Die-namic

Twine (The Twinery)

Basic Grey Picadilly dp

My Minds Eye dp

SU Cherry Cobbler ink

Ranger Distress Frayed Burlap ink

October Afternoon button

Sewing machine

Here's another card made with the Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps Heart die set - I used a variety of scraps of some of my favorite dp's with all 9 shapes and sizes of hearts in the set. I masked the cardbase with post-it-notes and sponged a strip using Ranger Distress inks and then popped up the hearts randomnly across it.

Each heart is sponged with a bit of Distress ink - I was kind of aiming for a vintage farmhouse look!

The sentiment is stamped on the largest heart and it's from the set Blessings and Thanks.

Supplies include:

Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps Heart Die set

Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps Blessings and Thanks

Cream Linen cardstock

My Minds Eye, October Afternoon, Basic Grey dp

Buttons

Ranger Distress Scattered Straw, Antique Linen, Frayed Burlap ink

Versafine Vintage Sepia ink

Fiskars corner rounder

Here's one more, this time a CAS card using the new Butterfly Flourish set, stamped in Memento Tuxedo Black ink over a heart sponged with SU's Cherry Cobbler ink. I don't have a heart die this large so I made a template free hand in the good old fashioned way of folding it in half so both sides would be even! To keep it clean and simple, I only added a few punched butterflies from black cardstock and black pearls to finish this card for a Valentine birthday!

Supplies include:

Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps Butterfly Flourish

Sweet n' Sassy Stamps Poppies and Greetings

Stampin Up Cherry Cobbler ink

Memento Tuxedo Black ink

Pearls

Mini Butterfly punch

I hope you've enjoyed these cards using hearts and found a little bit of inspiration!

Bless YOUR heart!

Hugs, Bridget

Butterfly Flourish

2012-02-08T05:48:00.005-05:00

Butterfly Flourish has to be my favorite set from this month's release. So I thought I'd share a few cards I have made with it so far.

The first one I decided to do some resist embossing with the image. Embossed the image in clear and then sponged on distress ink. Took the scripture from New Creature and masked it around the outer edge which is also sponged with distress ink. And finished off with a sentiment and twine.

For my second card, I did a little spotlighting. Stamped image in white on black and a white & black theme was born. It's a little hard to see but I stamped the flourish all around the black background in versamark.

Hope you are inspired to stamp today!

Inky hugs!

I'm So Glad There Is YOU!!!

2012-02-07T06:00:00.001-05:00

Happy Tuesday! It's Wendy here today, and I am super excited to be joining Sweet & Sassy Stamps as a Guest Designer this month!! I have to tell you that the first time that I saw Together Silhouettes, I didn't think of my loving husband, I thought of my best friend!! This set is perfect for cards and gifts for good friends.

Of course, this set is also perfect for your loved ones so don't be scared off. Enjoy your Tuesday and we can't wait to see what fabulous creations you can create with your Sweet & Sassy Stamps!!

Supplies:

Patterened Paper: Little Yellow Bicycle

Card Stock: Confetti (Bazzill Basics)

Dies: Cheery Lynn Designs

Stamps: Together Silhouettes (Sweet & Sassy Stamps)

Ink: Versafine Black Onyx, Versamark (Tsukineko)

Ribbon: craft supply store

Beautiful Backgrounds

2012-02-06T08:00:00.009-05:00

Hello friends! Hope you all had a marvelous Super Bowl weekend!

Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps has done it again...the February release was fabulous! The collage images and silhouettes are perfect stamp sets to be used with many wonderful background techniques. So I grabbed my distress inks and some alcohol inks and started playing around.

For my first sample, I used two new Sweet 'n Sassy clear stamp sets, "Rose Collage" and "You." To make the background for the beautiful Rose Collage stamp, I started with a piece of white card stock and crumpled it up...just bunch it up into a little ball...the more creases, the better! Flatten it out and rub a distress ink pad over the creases. I used Spun Sugar on my sample. Then spritz it with water so the ink begins to spread and run. Use an old iron or a craft iron to help dry the card stock and flatten the paper even more. You can leave it as is, or sponge on more color. I decided to add some Scattered Straw and Antique Linen. When you are happy with the results, stamp your image. A few torn edges, distressed ribbon, paper piercing, and pearls finish the card. What do you think?

For my second sample I used the lovely "Morning Glory" clear stamp set. The background for this card was made with glossy card stock and several alcohol inks. Begin by choosing several colors of alcohol ink. I used Stream, Wild Plum, Lettuce, and Gold. Put two to three drops of each color unto a felt applicator, adding just a drop of the metallic gold last, and dab the ink onto the glossy card stock until it is covered. Add some alcohol blending solution to the felt applicator and continue dabbing onto the card stock. The more blending solution you use, the lighter the colors become. Continue until you are happy with the results. You can stamp an image directly on the background with a permanent ink, or use it as a background panel as I did here. I hope this makes sense to you, but if not, visit Tim Holtz's blog to see a video tutorial on both of these beautiful background techniques.

I hope you'll grab your Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps and give these techniques a try. We'd love to see what you create! Happy stamping and God bless!

Customer Spotlight Sunday

2012-02-05T08:00:00.000-05:00

Hello friends, can you believe it is Sunday again? I'm here to share a couple of customer cards that I spotted this week - I think you will love them as much as I do!

Take a look at what the lovely Emily Painter-Davis has ben sharing:

This first card features the Pamper Me Cookie digi image, and was made for a Sweet Stop Sketch challenge. Aren't the colors just so perfect and girlie?

Emily's second card features the yummy A Donut for Cocoa digi image, and was made for the SNS Digi Challenge. Love that sketch she created, and the color combo!

Aren't these cards fabulous? I love how both of them are colored, and the bright colors Emily used - well done!! Thanks so much for sharing such fabulous creations with us! You never know when we'll spot your card in our gallery or on one of our challenge blog linky collections, so be sure to keep those amazing uploads coming (we are always on the lookout in our Splitcoaststampers gallery, over at the Sweet 'n Sassy Connection, Paper Craft Planet, and the linky collections for the Sweet Stop Sketch Challenge and the Digi Challenges)!

Mornin' Morning Glories ~

2012-02-04T08:00:00.001-05:00

Good Morning Everyone! The recent February Release showcased these beautiful Morning Glories set. This set comes with six beautiful sentiments and scriptures. I made this card to play along with Diva Giovana Inspiration Challenge. You can find the challenge here.

I coloured the flowers using Copics, then sponged the interior of the white excess areas by leaving the die in place and swiping my dauber from the outside in. I used my 6x6 MME paper pad to match the colour combo in Giovana's IC and love the lacey trims on the pillow shams. I used the cheery lynn die to continue with the lacey texture and used lace with my light pink sheer ribbon to create a shabby chic look.

Check out the new sets if you haven't had a chance to view them here. Also, pop into the member forum at Splitcoast and play along with us on the challenges by some of our creative Divas.

Have a great weekend!

~ Mary

Friday Feature: Sentiments For Him

2012-02-03T08:00:00.000-05:00

It's Friday - yay! Did you get a chance to browse through the February New Release blog hop with the Design Divas yesterday? The hop was full of amazing inspiration using our February release. And our release party last night was tons of fun; if you need some inspiration this weekend, be sure to play along in my love-themed challenge, Cathy's recipe challenge, or Giovana's inspiration challenge. Every entry gets you one chance to win a free stamp set from the February release!

And now for our Friday Feature. Today we are showing off Sentiments for Him. Take a look:

What a perfect set for the men in your life! Here are a few gorgeous cards from Korin using this set:

Head over to the store to add this versatile set to your collection today!

February Release Blog Hop

2012-02-02T08:00:00.004-05:00

Welcome to the Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps February New Release Blog Hop! This month's release is so exciting - it was even released a week early as a surprise! Get your warm beverage and tasty snack, and get ready for some amazing inspiration from the Design Divas!

And before you go....don't forget to make plans to join us for our new release party tonight; the fun takes place over in our member company forums on Splitcoaststampers. We'll have great fellowship with crafty friends, challenges, and a prize drawing! The excitement starts at 8:00 PM EST.

I had so much fun playing with this release that I have tons of cards made, so I am going to share one with you here and then a couple more on my personal blog :)....

This sweet card is for all of you who have been under the weather lately (my household included). The set I used is called Thoughtful Rhubarb. I paired the image with some lovely papers from the Love Story pad by Fancy Pants. I used the sketch I am hosting at SCS this week as well as this week's fabulous SNSS Inspiration Challenge image.

I've been having a lot of fun with my sewing machine lately, so I added some machine stitching around the main panel and the image panel. I used the Heart Scallop Die to add a pop of Kraft under the ribbon. The little heart on the sentiment banner is actually from the Heart Scallop Die, too :). I LOVE that....you'll see me getting double duty out of that die set quite frequently :).

Ok, so here's the rest of the blog hop line-up....

Korin Sutherland
Kim Singdahlsen
Giovana Smith
Dina Kowal

Wendy Jordan (our February guest)

Taylor Usry

Don't forget, the entire February release is available in the store right now; you can order the stamps individually or at a discounted bundle price!

Ok, enjoy the hop and I'll see you tonight at the party :)!!

~Korin

Rose Collage Fancy Fold

2012-02-01T00:00:00.000-05:00

I'm hosting the SCS sketch again this week and while the sketch itself is pretty simple you have the option to make it interactive or use a fancy fold, which is what I did for my Rose Collage card below :).

Here is the closed view...

And here is the open view. The inside sentiment is from Dina's new set You.

The card measures 4.25" x 5.5". I cut about 3" off the top of just the front of my card....which you can see it a bit better in the above picture.

I hope you'll give this sketch a try!

And be sure to stop back tomorrow for our amazing DT Blog Hop featuring our February Release :)!!

~Korin

You Can't Be Beet!

2012-01-31T08:00:00.000-05:00

I had to save this card for last because this time guesting for Sweet 'n Sassy can't be beet!! Tee hee...This is how I like my beets - on paper. I never eat them but I think they're completely adorable, especially when they have faces!Thank you so much for having me ladies - you can't be beet!

Lydia is at CHA right now, but she shared this fabby card with us before she left! We've SO enjoyed having her as our guest this month, and she has created some amazing projects! In case you missed any, be sure to check them out!

Designer: Lydia Fiedler

Stamps: You & Me

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

Paper: SU - Crumb Cake, DSP, Canson Marker Paper

Accessories: ShinHan Touch Twin Markers: Y42, GY48, YR26, R2, Silk, Sewing Machine

Introducing Our February Guest Designer

2012-01-30T08:00:00.000-05:00

We aren't quite to February yet, but I am continuing the trend of making our February announcements early today! I'm so excited to introduce our wonderful guest, who will be joining us all month. Please join me in welcoming:

Wendy Jordan

My name is Wendy Jordan and I get all of my paper crafting inspiration from the four seasons I get to experience living in Western Montana. My husband Levi and I have a blended family of four FABULOUS children and four dogs, so the natural progression of life was to start scrapbooking. That obsession quickly moved into card making and I have been paper crafting for the last five years.

In real life, I am Sales Representative and Technique Instructor in the Arts & Crafts Industry. I also enjoy designing for Stampendous and Dreamweaver Stencils.

Thank you so much Korin and Taylor for this super opportunity. I have been enjoying my Sweet & Sassy Stamps and can't wait to show my creations!!!

Check out this adorable Rhubarb card that Wendy made recently! We can't wait to see more of her fabulous work all month long!

Customer Spotlight Sunday

2012-01-29T08:00:00.000-05:00

Hello friends, and welcome to another joyous Sunday! I have some fabulous inspiration to share with you today; both of these cards come from the lovely Donna Hanley:

Aren't these cards just darling? And both of them are so well colored - great job, Donna!!Thanks so much for sharing such fabulous creations, with us! You never know when we'll spot your card in our gallery or on one of our challenge blog linky collections, so be sure to keep those amazing uploads coming (we are always on the lookout in our Splitcoaststampers gallery, over at the Sweet 'n Sassy Connection, Paper Craft Planet, and the linky collections for the Sweet Stop Sketch Challenge and the Digi Challenges)!

Did you see the surprise announcement about the entire February release being available early? Limited quantities are already in the store, so if you order now you might even get your stamps before the official release on Thursday, Feb 2!

And mark your calendars for these two events coming up next week:

The Design Team is hard at work creating amazing samples to show off during our New Release blog hop next Thursday! The fun starts right here on the SNSS blog!

We have so many fun things planned for our release party next Thursday...challenges, chatting, giveaways, and oh so much fun!! Don't miss it!

Thoughtful Rhubarb

2012-01-28T08:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Saturday everyone! I made a quick card to share using the darling new Thoughtful Rhubarb clear stamp set from Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps. I paired him with the yummy Snowfall patterned paper from Bo Bunny - isn't he handsome surrounded by blue? I finished him off with a fun heart - I am loving the hearts die set from SNSS!

I also added some pretty velvet flourish stickers from Stampendous to my card - they were originally white, but I sponged some ink on them to help them blend in with the papers a bit more.

Did you see the surprise announcement about the entire February release being available early? Limited quantities are already in the store, so if you order now you might even get your stamps before the official release on Thursday, Feb 2!

Supplies:
Stamps: Thoughtful Rhubarb (Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps)
Card Stock: Kraft (PTI), White (Neenah)
Patterned Paper: Snowfall (Bo Bunny)
Ink: Rich Cocoa (Memento), Antique Linen (Ranger Distress)
Coloring Medium: Copics
Accessories: Velvet Flourish Stickers (Stampendous), Bling (Creative Impressions)
Tools: Heart Dies (Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps), Banner Die (Spellbinders)

Friday Feature: Somebuggy Loves You

2012-01-27T08:00:00.001-05:00

Welcome to Friday, Sweet 'n Sassy fans!! Did you see the surprise announcement we made yesterday? The whole February release (available as individual sets or as a bundle) is already available - that's right! We are all so excited about it we just skipped the Sweet Peeks and went right to showing all the sets. The best part is, limited quantities are already in stock, so you might even have your stamps before the release party next week! Head over to yesterday's post to see all the sets, read all about the chances to win some goodies, and to find out what else we're up to in the next week.

Today we are sharing what I think is one of the cutest sets ever, seriously! I adore it! Take a look at Somebuggy Loves You:

Those critters! The sweet sentiments!!! It just makes me smile every time I look at it :) And here's some inspiration from the team to spark your imagination:

I can barely contain the cuteness!!!! Head over to the store today to pick up your set! And mark your calendars for these two events coming up next week:

The Design Team is hard at work creating amazing samples to show off during our New Release blog hop next Thursday! The fun starts right here on the SNSS blog!

We have so many fun things planned for our release party next Thursday...challenges, chatting, giveaways, and oh so much fun!! Don't miss it!

SURPRISE!!!!!!!!

2012-01-26T00:00:00.009-05:00

Hello, Sweet 'n Sassy friends!!!
Taylor and I were recently talking about how much we *LOVE* the February release and how we can't wait to share it with you......and.....well....we decided we've waited long enough! LOL

The entire February release is available NOW for preorder at 10% off when you use coupon code FEBPREORDER (February Release Bundle not included)...
PLUS

For every February stamp set you preorder this week (1/26 through 2/1) your name will be entered into a drawing for a $25 credit to Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps!!!

The more February sets you preorder, the better your chances of winning :)!

When you preorder the entire release (at a great price of $75) you will not only get free shipping (US orders), but you will also get 3 bonus entries into the drawing for a total of 10 entries!!

We already have low quantities in stock and will begin shipping immediately so if you get your order in right away, you just might have your stamps BEFORE the release party on the 2nd!!

Since today typically would have been the first day of our Sweet Peeks, we're just going to share the entire release with you here :)...

This is Dina's newest set simply called
YOU-$15.00

We can't forget our favorite mouse...this sweet mini set will give you a head start on those Easter cards...
Egg-cited Cocoa-$9.00

This versatile set is perfect for almost any occasion....
Rose Collage-$15.00

It may be Winter but flowers are always in season....
Morning Glory-$11.00

This sweet set is sure to make you smile...
Thoughtful Rhubarb-$11.00

For all the precious little girls in your life....
Special Friends-$15.00

As a background or the main focal point, this mini set is wonderful....
Butterfly Flourish-$9.00

The entire release is valued at $85 but you can purchase the bundle for $75!

Don't forget:
If you want to see lots of gorgeous eye candy featuring these great NEW stamps join us for our DT Blog Hop on Thursday, February 2nd starting at 8am EST right here on the SNSS blog.

AND...
Then head over to our February Release Party at 8pm EST in our SCS Member Company forum! We have some fantastic challenges planned the with opportunities to win free stamps, plus lots of chatting & fun with friends. We can't wait to celebrate with you!

Oh and one more thing.....
We've decided to offer our January dies in a bundle for $25, so if you haven't yet grabbed these fantastic dies, you really may want to now ;)!

You Are Special

2012-01-25T08:38:00.000-05:00

I'm hosting the sketch challenge over at Splitcoaststampers today, and I decided to share a little peek at an image that's part of the February clear stamp release. She's already available as a digi (Abby's Birdhouse), but if you stay tuned tomorrow you'll be able to see a little peek at her new set, complete with sentiments! I hand-stitched around the edges of my Echo Park Candy Shoppe patterned paper, and used the cute new Hearts border die to add a little extra sweetness to the card.

Head on over to Splitcoaststampers and play along with the sketch if you get a chance - it's a great way to get your mojo going!

Supplies:
Stamps: Special Friends (Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps)
Card Stock: Kraft (Neenah), White (Neenah)
Patterned Paper: Dots & Stripes Candy Shoppe (Echo Park)
Ink: Rich Cocoa (Memento)
Coloring Medium: Copics
Accessories: Dew Drops, Thread
Tools: Hearts Border Die (Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps), Banner Die (Spellbinders), Paper Piercer

A Beary Sweet Valentine

2012-01-24T08:00:00.000-05:00

I KNEW what I was going to do with sweet little Rhubarb when I saw this set! His big sweet heart was destined to be a beautiful, glittery, blue.

I stamped him in Memento Tuxedo black, and colored him with ShinHan Touch Twin markers - just two colors - BR100 and BR134. When I was done coloring him, I used a washcloth and the colorless blender to add that perfect teddy bear texture to his fur. I filled in his heart with Mono Glue and added Stampin' Up! Baja Breeze glass glitter.

Then, using this AWESOME tutorial for Maria's Treat Box, I made a box from Crumb Cake cardstock and SU Designer Series paper. I filled a cello bag with Sweetheart candy hearts (they taste good now! - LOL) and tied it closed with May Arts silk ribbon.

Thanks for looking!

~ In The Background ~

2012-01-23T08:00:00.001-05:00

Hello Sweet N Sassy Friends!

Holly here :)

Today I am going to share with you a CAS technique that I just love. CAS (clean and simple) have always been a challenge to me, but I am starting to get the hang of it!

This technique, which I call "In the Background", is simply the use of the image as a watermark on the base cardstock, making the sentiment the stand out.

Here is my card:

I took the tiny hearts that are the negative on the heart border die and used them around the card. I also used the new heart dies to carry the theme below the border. Super simple and super fun!

Here are my details:

Stamps:

Together Silhouettes Clear Stamp Set

Paper:

Very Vanilla and Kraft

Ink:

Versamark and Chocolate

Accessories:

Heart Die Set

Hearts & Stars Scallop Border Die Set

1" vanilla/red gingham ribbon

The Twinery brown/white twine

Label nesties

dimensionals

~*~*~*~

Thanks for stopping by today!

Hugs!

You & Me

2012-01-21T08:00:00.001-05:00

Hello my friends! Giovana here with a sweet card for you today using You & Me Stamp Set. I made this card few days ago and I hope you like it.

Here are the details about my card.

Directions:

Make your card base from White Cardstock.
Create a panel from Kraft Light Blue Cardstock, inking all edges. Adhere a piece of Patterned Paper and add stitches. Tie on ribbon and add a White brad.
Stamp sentiment. Adhere panel piece to card front.
Stamp image on a piece of Kraft Cardstock in Versamark Ink. Add White embossing powder and heat it up with a embossing heat gun.
Die-cut, emboss and stencil piece with Square Dies.
Add White and Silver Gala Glitz to create the effect of salt on pepper.
Adhere image to card base with foam tape.

Hope you like it.
Have a great day!!

Friday Feature: Woof You

2012-01-20T08:00:00.000-05:00

This week's Friday Feature is a playful set that is sure to bring a smile to your face! Take a look at Woof You:

Isn't that puppy adorable? And the sentiments to go with him are just too sweet. Check out some inspiration from Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps designers and special friends:

created by: Korin Sutherland

created by: Kim Schofield

created by: Korin Sutherland

created by: Tami Mayberry

created by: Korin Sutherland

There are so many possibilities with this set, including some Valentine's Day cards. It's also perfect for masculine cards (for the little guys, too!).

Head over to the store today and order yours!

Very Special Butterflies

2012-01-19T08:17:00.000-05:00

Polka Dot Silhouettes is the perfect set to create this swarm/rabble/lek of butterflies. (I looked those words up. Aren't those strange and harsh terms for this beautiful group of butterflies?)

It's so easy to create this very dimensional grouping. I've also seen it done with snowflakes which is absolutely lovely. Simply stamp with white ink and another color ink (I went for tone on tone.) Let it dry. Then white emboss the top layer. You get so much dimension for these simple steps!

This card is for a very special young lady. She's in fourth grade and for most of her life she has had to deal with the fact that her little sister has been through three full episodes of chemo. I have a card for her sister too, but I never want to forget what big sister is experiencing. The whole family could use your prayers as this time around is particularly intense.

I actually started out in a different direction for this group of butterflies...a single strip on a birthday card. But in the midst of putting that card together, I realized that the look of the butterflies was EXACTLY what I wanted for this little girl - cute, but not cutesy...and I wanted a bigger group of them for her. But I do like the first card so wanted to share it also.

FYI - the sentiments are from Love from Rhubarb (You are Special) and from Happy Birthdays.

Kim Singdahlsen
Joyful Creations with Kim

Tasty Treats...

2012-01-18T04:00:00.000-05:00

Hello there! It's Monika here bringing you a SWEET card, using one of the new clear stamp sets, Cocoa's Tasty Treats. Who can pass up such an adorable and sweet image?

This set, having 4 different images and 5 greetings, is perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth... and it's calorie free!

This is an all occasion card that can be given to anyone at any time!

I decided to concentrate on textures when I made my card... hence the dry embossed background and Liquid Applique (Marvy Uchida) as the whip cream.

The image was colored with Copic Markers. I stamped an extra Cocoa, cut it out, and attached it to the main image with dimensional tape. This is a great 'technique' that can add an extra touch to your card. It's almost like paper-piecing.

The edge of my card was punched with EK Success Dotted Scallop Edger punch. An easy way of making your card just a bit different.

This week, Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps is sponsoring Card Positioning Systems-Card Sketches, so I used the new sketch, CPS #251 for my card.

Thanks for visiting!

Monika

Hey Hot Stuff!

2012-01-17T08:00:00.000-05:00

Every winter, I make my FAVORITE foodie gift for friends - my candied jalapenos!

That's actually not a GREAT description of this yummy treat, but I haven't thought of another good name yet, so I'm stuck with it. Basically, it's hot and sweet jalapenos that you serve over cream cheese on crackers. It's CRAZY delicious!

So I decided to make a slightly more girly presentation of these this month - since everyone is used to seeing pepper themed things in bright reds and greens, I thought I'd go with a more Valentine's look with pink and a fresh green. How adorable is the "hi hot stuff" theme for a Valentine's present anyway? Pretty cute, if I do say so myself.

I started with a little 3 x 3 notecard and a paper pieced pepper. Say THAT three times fast.

Designer: Lydia Fiedler

Stamps: Punny Fruits & Veggies Paper: Stampin' Up! Lucky Limeade and Sew Suite DSP (retired),

Accessories: Stampin' Up! Early Espresso Twine, SU Pearls Ink: Stampin' Up! Basic Black

I took the paper that I made the pepper out of and made a little 3/4" strip for the edge of the jar lid, and added some twine and a tag.

Squeee - the top is so cute!! I added pearls for more girliness and made a matching paper pieced pepper.

Thank you so much for looking at this project! I hope your week is hot stuff!! :)

Cherished Friend

2012-01-16T08:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Monday! Hoping everyone enjoyed a lovely weekend! I had the pleasure of spending my Saturday with a friend and we crafted the day away...it was delightful!! And I'm delighted to be able to share a new card, featuring a new Sweet 'n Sassy stamp set, today!

My card is showcasing a sentiment from the True Friend stamp set and main image from one of my favorite SNSS stamps, Wildflowers. To create my card I stamped the Wildflowers image in VersaMark ink on glossy paper. Then I used clear embossing powder to emboss the image. A few Distress Inks and a blending tool adds color to the background and really makes the focal image pop. I then added my sentiment (cut out with a Spellbinders die) and grosgrain ribbon. (Oh, and three rhinestones!)

Enjoy today's card and check out all of the new SNSS sets!!

Customer Spotlight Sunday

2012-01-15T12:36:00.003-05:00

Hello and welcome to another Customer Spotlight Sunday! Wait until you see the gorgeous inspiration I'm sharing today! I came across a couple of cards in our Splitcoaststampers gallery that I couldn't wait to share here!

The first is from Lee, and she actually was the lucky winner of a free set for playing along with a challenge from our release party. Lee used the fun Snowflake Flourish clear stamp set on her card.

The second card I'm swooning over today is from Beate. I love how she highlighted those poppies from the Poppies and Greetings clear stamp set! This card is her sample for Sweet 'n Sassy Design Diva Holly McMillen's video tutorial for the Frosted Window technique over on Splitcoaststampers this week.

Thanks so much for sharing such fabulous creations, ladies! You never know when we'll spot your card in our gallery or on one of our challenge blog linky collections, so be sure to keep those amazing uploads coming (we are always on the lookout in our Splitcoaststampers gallery, over at the Sweet 'n Sassy Connection, Paper Craft Planet, and the linky collections for the Sweet Stop Sketch Challenge and the Digi Challenges)!

Apple of My Eye

2012-01-14T06:09:00.005-05:00

Hello, it's Bridget here with a fun card to help brighten your Saturday! I've been having so much fun with this new set Punny Fruit and Vegetables designed by Korin at Sweet n' Sassy Stamps. Though the sentiments and images are perfect for Valentines, they can be used all through out the year for so many different occasions. They're also very easy to color, cut out, and pop up as

I did with this smiling little apple. I distressed all edges with Ranger Distress ink and did a bit a of stitching to try and add to the country farmhouse look. I made a small pennant with the main sentiment by using the corner of a small square punch to give the fish tail effect on the right side. This works great for those of us who don't have pennant or banner dies yet!

While making this card I kept thinking about this verse in Psalms, when David was recognising God's incredible love and and asking for His powerful protection to continue:

"Keep me as the apple of the eye, hide me under the shadow of thy wings."

Psalm 17:8

Imagine the delight of receiving a card with this wonderful sentiment - "You're the apple of my eye" - what a way to remind someone how much you love them!

Have a wonderful weekend, hugs, Bridget

Supplies include:

Sweet n' Sassy Stamps Punny Fruit and Vegetables

Papermill Shop green cardstock

Twine (The Twinery)

October Afternoon button

October Afternoon dp

Sewing machine

Spellbinders Nestabilities Circles

My Favorite Things, Dizzy Doily Die-namic

Copics

Small square punch

Ranger Distress Antique Linen, Frayed Burlap ink

Lifestyle Crafts Inverted Square Nesting Dies

Friday {Double} Feature

2012-01-13T06:00:00.000-05:00

This week we are introducing a brand new bit of fun to the Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps blog....Friday Feature. Each week we'll be highlighting a stamp set (or two) that is perfect for the season, or an upcoming holiday. We're starting off this week with two gorgeous stamps sets; Rose Blossom and Love Sentiments are just what you need to get started on those love notes for Valentine's Day!

Take a look at the first set we're highlighting today, Rose Blossom:

Here are some samples from our Design Divas, to get your creative wheels turning:

created by: Bridget Finlay

created by: Jessica Fick

created by: Bridget Finlay

created by: Korin Sutherland

Now check out the versatile Love Sentiments set:

And more samples to spark your creativity:

created by: Taylor Usry

created by: Korin Sutherland

created by: Taylor Usry

created by: Korin Sutherland

Head over to the store today and order yours, just in time to get started on those Valentine's Day cards and little love notes!

Cocoa's Tasty Treats

2012-01-12T08:00:00.000-05:00

Hi there. I am here with my first blog post for the year so let's jump right in. I'm in the mood for sweets but am trying to stay away from them. (need to lose these winter pounds)

The best way to curb this craving is to stamp with Cocoa's Tasty Treats. Didn't gain a pound at all and have a cute card to show for it! Can't beat that! And I got to color with copics too! That's always a plus.

Thanks for stopping by and have a blessed week.

Hugs,
Amber

Feeling Fruity

2012-01-11T08:00:00.006-05:00

Welcome to Wednesday's Sweet 'n Sassy Blog post! Hope you are having a great week!

The new Sweet 'n Sassy clear stamp set, "Punny Fruits & Veggies," reminded me of the fact that when I taught first grade we would always celebrate Valentine's Day with a party. Being conscious of food allergies and heath issues, we would have "February Fruit and Valentine Veggies," with dip of course, at our party. Since I was feeling kind of fruity today, I decided to play with the cute fruit from this adorable set!

A little 3 X 3 box holds the set of four fruity notecards. There's a wonderful tutorial for this little box which can be found HERE in the resources section on Splitcoaststampers. Each of the fruits from the set were colored with copic markers and cut with a Spellbinders Circle Nestie and mounted on a scalloped circle that matched the card base. These were then layered onto Basic Grey patterned paper and a heart embossed panel that had been punched with a scalloped border. A strip of patterned paper was added under the scallops and a bit of Baker's Twine finished the card. Here are all four notecards.

I just love how each of the sentiments is perfect for each piece of fruit!

After seeing this post, you may be feeling a bit fruity, too! Hop on over to the Sweet 'n Sassy store and pick up some fruit and veggies and have fun!

Blessings to you and thanks for stopping by today!

Hugs,
Cathy

Card Recipe

Stamps: Punny Fruits & Veggies (Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps)

Ink: Versafine Onyx Black (Tsukineko), Tuxedo Black (Memento)

Paper: Select White, Orange Zest (PTI), Cherry Cobbler, Apricot Appeal, Gable Green (SU!), Cryogen White, Sugar Rush DP (Basic Grey)

Accessories: Sizzix Embossing Folder, Circle, Oval, and Scalloped Nesties (Spellbinders), Piercing Tool, Scallop Border Punch (SU!), Baker's Twine (Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps), Copic Markers R32, R39, R59, R89, YR00, YR04, YR12, YR68, YR82, YG13, YG17, YG21, Y15, Y17, E43, E44, E47

You & Me

2012-01-10T07:00:00.003-05:00

One of my fondest childhood memories is of opening my sassy metal lunchboxes in Mrs. French's kindergarten to discover that my mother had blessed me with a peanut butter and jelly sandwich and milk. Peanut butter is the ultimate comfort food, and still one of my favorites.

It's only fitting that I pay tribute to it today with a little PB & J from You & Me!

It's SUCH an adorable set and I just colored it with ShinHan Touch Twin markers and punched it out.

Honestly, it made me hungry!

I hope your day is sweet!

Designer: Lydia Fiedler

Stamps: Sweet 'n Sassy You & Me

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

Paper: Stampin' Up! Domestic Goddess DSP, Calypso Coral Cardstock, Bazzill Coconut Swirl Cardstock

Accessories: Calypso Coral Organdy Ribbon, 2.5" Circle Punch, Corner Chomper,

ShinHan Touch Twin Markers BG 178, YR29, Y31, R16, YR142

Celebrate the New Year ~

2012-01-09T08:00:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year!

I couldn't wait to use this adorable digi of Korin's Kitty named Tank. Isn't he adorable...I personally think there should be more images of him on Korin's lap or shoulder ;-)

Tank is coloured using Copics. I pulled my colours from the challenge that Taylor posted here and over at SplitcoastStampers SNSS forum. If you have seen the challenges, they are inspirational and fun to participate! For this particular one be sure to use the keyword SNSSIC21.

Check out the submissions to the latest release challenges on SCS Sweet'nSassy Company forum
if you are looking for inspiration on SNSS stamps!

Customer Spotlight Sunday

2012-01-08T09:13:00.000-05:00

Wow - we've had such a big week here at Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps!! Our January release is now available in the store; we celebrated with an inspiration-filled Design Team Blog Hop. We also had a great Release Party Thursday night in our member company forums over on Splitcoaststampers.

I've got some great cards to share today for Customer Spotlight Sunday. Wait until you se all the amazing details on these!

Card courtesy of Deb Foti

Deb Foti made this adorable card before Christmas, to play along with a Sweet Stop Sketch. How cute is Self Conscious Paulie?

Deb also whipped up this adorable tag for a Sweet 'n Sassy Digi Challenge to make or incorporate tags. Write Soon Cocoa is just darling on this, isn't he?

You never know when we'll spot your card in our gallery or on one of our challenge blog linky collections, so be sure to keep those amazing uploads coming (we are always on the lookout in our Splitcoaststampers gallery, over at the Sweet 'n Sassy Connection, Paper Craft Planet, and the linky collections for the Sweet Stop Sketch Challenge and the Digi Challenges)!

If you need a challenge today, play along with our release party challenges for chances to WIN a FREE set from the new release:

My Color Combo Challenge

Cathy's Tic-Tac-Toe Challenge

Kim's Paper Piecing Challenge

You Complete Me

2012-01-07T11:31:00.003-05:00

I am SUPER excited about today's card!! Not only was this week my first official time as one of the new Sketch Challenge Hostesses over at Splitcoaststampers (along with Korin and Holly - what a great trio we make!), I used one of the fantastic new stamp sets being released by Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps this week. How stinkin' cute is the glass of milk and bunch of cookies?!?!?! The stamp set is called You & Me, and it is definitely one of my favorites from the release.

I also combined this card with this week's Inspiration Challenge I host over in the Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps member company forums. I love this photo I found on Pinterest; my card echoes the circles from the background, the cookie theme, and the colors (sort of - I used them, but in different hues).

I hope you can find some time to come play along with one or both of these great challenges!! And if you need even more to challenge you, play along with our release party challenges for chances to WIN a FREE set from the new release:

My Color Combo Challenge

Cathy's Tic-Tac-Toe Challenge

Kim's Paper Piecing Challenge

And.....I love the new release SO much, I'm giving away a free set, just to spread the love. Head over to this thread on SCS and just tell me which one is your favorite. That's it!! It's that simple!

Supplies:
Stamps: You & Me (Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps)
Card Stock: Kraft (Bazzill), Cream (Bazzill Prsimatics)
Patterned Paper: Sweet Season (Webster's Pages)
Ink: Rich Cocoa (Memento)
Coloring Medium: Copics (N0, N2, BG10, E31, E33, E35)
Accessories: Twine (May Arts)
Tools: Circle Punches (SU), Paper Piercer, Tim Holtz Design Ruler

Have You Seen the January Release?

2012-01-06T08:53:00.000-05:00

We're starting this year off right with an exciting release of eight new clear stamp sets and three new exclusive sets of dies! Be sure to check out all of the inspiration our Design Divas and special January Guest Diva shared during our New Release Blog Hop; for even more inspiration check out our Splitcoaststampers member company gallery!

If you didn't get a chance to join us for the full reveals of each set last night at our Release Party, you check them out below:

This is You & Me, designed by Korin Sutherland, and Together Silhouettes, designed by Dina Kowal.

These two are Warm Hello and Love From Rhubarb, both designed by Korin Sutherland.

Pictured above are True Friend and Punny Fruits & Veggies, both designed by Korin Sutherland.

What release would be complete without Cocoa? Pictured above are Cocoa's Tasty Treats, and also his girlfriend Cookie in her Girly Girl Cookie set (which you can get for FREE with your purchase of $50 in clear stamps this month). Both sets were designed by Korin Sutherland.

Finally, we have the newest additions to the Sweet 'n Sassy exclusive collection of dies. Each set shown above is available separately. The stars are a set of 4, the hearts are a set of 9, and the borders come in a set of 2!

We hope you enjoy the release as much as we do!

Happy Shopping!

--Taylor--

January Release Day Blog Hop!

2012-01-05T08:00:00.004-05:00

Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps has an amazing release planned for this month, and the Design Divas are so excited about it! Eight new clear stamp sets and three new sets of dies will be available in the store tonight. Make sure you've got a warm, tasty beverage and some donuts ready....you won't want to miss a bit of the inspiration we have for you today!

Take a look at all of the Design Divas (and our very special January guest)...they've all whipped up some gorgeousness today! Your first stop is my blog :), but the whole list is below in case you need it.

Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps Blog

Taylor Usry
Bridget Finlay

Cathy McCauley
Lydia Fiedler

Korin Sutherland

One more thing before you go.....we hope you can make plans to join us tonight in our Member Company forums over on Splitcoaststampers.

We're having a Release Party, and it is full of great activities, stamp set reveals, and fun with friends! All of the partying will take place in our Release Party forum, so be sure to bookmark it!

Hope to see you there! Enjoy the hop!

~Taylor

January Sweet Peek #8

2012-01-04T06:36:00.002-05:00

We introduced Cocoa's girlfriend a while back in our digi line, but now's she's joining our clear stamp line with this month's Free w/ $50 stamp set, Girly Girl Cookie. We think she's pretty sweet and hope you do, too.

~Set measures 3"x4"

~Includes 1 image & 4sentiments

~Free when you purchase $50 in CLEAR STAMPS---Price will be $9 Feb. 1st

~Illustrated by Korin Sutherland

Well, that's it.....our last Sweet Peek for this release, which means tomorrow is our inspiration filled blog hop!!!!! SQUEEEEEEE!!!! :) See you then!

January Sweet Peek #7

2012-01-03T06:10:00.002-05:00

If you like puns then you'll love this fun set called Punny Fruits & Veggies...it makes adorable Valentines, pick-me-up cards, and more.

~Set measures 6"x4"

~Includes 7 images & 11 sentiments

~Price $15

~Illustrated by Korin Sutherland

One more peek to go and then it's time for a HOP!! :) Our last peek tomorrow features a new character in our clear stamp line and it also happens to be our Free w/ $50 set :)......see you tomorrow!

January Sweet Peek #6

2012-01-02T08:32:00.002-05:00

Rhubarb is back in another sweet set that's all about LOVE :). Here's a little peek of our new Love From Rhubarb set....

~Set measures 4"x4"

~Includes 2 images & 6 sentiments

~Price $11

~Illustrated by Korin Sutherland

We have a couple more peeks to go...so join us again tomorrow for something a little punny :).

January Sweet Peek #5

2012-01-01T09:06:00.003-05:00

Today's peek features Dina Kowal's newest set, Together Silhouettes......but the coolest part about this set......her children posed for this image :). How cool is that!? :)

~Set measures 4"x6"

~Includes 4 images & 5 sentiments

~Price $15

~Designed by Dina Kowal

Check back tomorrow for another peek....it just might make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside ;).....

New Faces For January

2012-01-01T08:00:00.000-05:00

Wow! I can't believe it's January already. Hopefully you had a blessed, relaxing, enjoyable holiday season with your friends and family.

With the new year comes the addition of a few new faces to our line-up. We're super excited to introduce them to you! Before I do, however, I wanted to take a minute to say good-bye to two of our long-time team members, Sandy Domelle and Janette Olen. Both ladies have taken a step back from Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps to concentrate on the families for awhile. We wish them the best of luck and send our prayers for success and happiness. Don't worry, though - you'll still be seeing them around!

Now, on to our new faces for January. I'm so pleased to announce that TWO new ladies are joining our Design Diva lineup! First, we are welcoming back a familiar face, Amber Hillman.

I'm a SAHM mom to 4 kids, 2 puppies and babysit 3 yr old twins once a week. I started stamping when my (now 9 yr old) son was 2 weeks old! I learned real quick how to stamp with one hand and hold a baby in the other. From there my love grew to all things related to paper crafts. Besides stamping, I dabble in cake/cupcake decorating. I'm excited to be back home on the SNSS team.

We're also thrilled to welcome the enormously talented Giovana Smith!

Hi!! my name is Giovana E. Smith, born in Lima and raised in Callao, a main Port in Peru, a small South American country. Now, I live in Washington State with my American husband and beautiful daughter. We live in a very country area surrounded by farms and animals, I love it here very much, very peaceful place where you pretty much know all your neighbors :) I am a born-again Christian, the Lord has blessed me with so many things. He leads our house.

I think I've been crafty my whole life. When I was 5 or so I used to make clothes for my dolls, then I learned how to knit and cross stitch. I used to cross stitch big pictures and sell them for decorations, sometimes 1 picture took me about 4 months to finish. I started paper crafting about 6 years ago. My daughter was about 1 year and a half and she didn't let me cross stitch anymore, LOL, since then I have learned some many things, like being patient when something doesn't turn out the wait you want. I have been blessed enough to be part of several Design Teams and being published in different magazines. I teach once in awhile and I love it. English is my second language and I have an accent, but my daughter doesn't believe that, she thinks I speak without it :)I am so happy to join the Sweet & Sassy Design Team, hope you enjoy my creations and looking forward to knowing you more.

And, just because the new year should start with a bang, we have an amazing guest designer to introduce, too! Please say hello to Lydia Fiedler!

My name is Lydia Fiedler and I have been papercrafting for more than 30 years - I try to produce some sort of art every day. Never using an iron or a duster really helps with this effort. I work in papercrafting for my real job also - as the Community Manager of Splitcoaststampers.com for Internet Brands, and I teach courses in Social Media for artists at local universities and conservatories and for art guilds. I blog at www.understandblue.blogspot.com and at www.projectreanimate.blogspot.com . I enjoy creating art for non-profits, and frequently donate art to fundraisers for animal rescue and educational organizations in my community. I live with my two furry rescued beasts - Maddie and Splotchy - and my husband Paul in the glorious God's country that is central Texas. In addition to to my stamping addiction, I'm also addicted to Pinterest, Google Reader and Angry Birds.

Hopefully, you've been keeping up with our great Sweet Peeks - we've got a fabulous release lined up for January! Stay tuned for the New Release blog hop this Thursday at 8:00 AM EST, and make plans to join us in our Member Company forums over on Splitcoaststampers Thursday night at 8:00 PM EST for our release party. We'll have challenges, full reveals of the stamp sets, lots of fun chit chat, and maybe a surprise or two!

January Sweet Peek #4

2011-12-31T09:14:00.003-05:00

Winter only just started so I had to squeeze in one more snowman stamp set :).....a new mini set called Warm Hello. Don't you think he'd make an adorable Valentine? :) He looks like he's ready to give a big hug so some lucky person ;).

~Set measures 3"x4"

~Includes 1 image & 2 sentiments

~Price $9

~Designed by Korin Sutherland

Tomorrow's Sweet Peek is of Dina Kowal's newest set.....and there is a fun little detail I will be sharing.....so be sure to check back!!

January Sweet Peek #3

2011-12-30T08:22:00.005-05:00

Today's peek set is all about friends.....we all have them.....some are close by......some are very far away, but they are cherished.......they are special......they are loved! This new set will help you show just how much you appreciate that special person (or persons) you call friend! The set is aptly called True Friend.....

~Set measures 6"x4"

~Includes 7 sentiments

~Price $15

~Designed by Korin Sutherland

Stop by again tomorrow for a Sweet Peek that will melt your heart :).....

January Sweet Peek #2

2011-12-29T08:37:00.007-05:00

Today's Sweet Peek is a little different from our usual style....the idea came to me over the summer but I thought it would be adorable as a Valentine's Day/Love themed set so I decided to hold onto it for our January release. I think it will make you smile :). It's called You & Me.....

~Set measures 4"x6"

~Includes 5 images & 12 sentiments

~Price $15

~Illustrated by Korin Sutherland

Check back tomorrow for another Sweet Peek that's all about friendship.

January Release Sweet Peek #1

2011-12-28T08:43:00.004-05:00

Well, hello everyone!!!! Are you recovering from your Christmas weekend? My hubby and kids are home until Tuesday so we are enjoying a very relaxed week and I must admit, it's going to be hard to go back to work full time next week!

The SNSS DT is super excited about our January release and blog hop which will be January 5th and we can't wait to share all our creations with you! In the mean time, how about we share some Sweet Peeks of the new sets to come!

This new set featuring your favorite mouse is a real treat :)....

~Set measures 6"x4"

~Includes 4 images & 5 sentiments

~Price $15

~Illustrated by Korin Sutherland

Stop by tomorrow for our next peek....it's sure to make you SMILE :).

Together We Can!

2011-12-27T07:00:00.000-05:00

Hello again...Julie Ranae with you for one final time.

The end of 2011 is quickly approaching

and as I created this card with a winter theme

in mind, I was continually reminded

that the sentiment on this card applied

to so much more than snowflakes.

So this is my New Year's blessing to you...

We are so powerful as individuals, but

collectively, we can do great things.

So I hope you will make 2012 a year of

being creative in new and exciting ways.

Get together with friends or join a blog hop.

Whatever you do, make an effort to

team up with someone because together

'we CAN do so much'!

I broke out some vintage Heidi Grace paper to make

this final creation which really focuses

on the sentiment from the

'Snowflake Flourish' set.

The die cut tag was stamped with the individual

snowflake and the verse and that was it.

Always remember, when you buy a set of stamps

you don't always have to use the biggest

images in the set.

Even the tiniest ones can make an impact!

I want to thank Korin, Taylor and the

designers at SNSS for making me feel

so welcome and for letting me grace

the pages of their beautifully inspiring blog.

I hope you will visit me over at

Julie's Open Window

and when you do, please say hello.

What I used to create this project:

Stamps: Snowflake Flourish from

Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps

Designer Paper: Heidi Grace

Ink: Slate from A Muse Studio

Embellishments: Ribbon from American Crafts

Tools: Label die from Sizzix, Big Shot

Thank You with Wildflowers

2011-12-26T08:00:00.000-05:00

I hope that everyone had a festive, magical and worshipful Christmas!!

It's a season full of generous acts, wonderful gatherings of family and presents, and special gifts - so for my post today, I wanted to say "Thank You"!

I used the Wildflower set which is so very versatile. It can be gentle and pastel, bright and cheery, or in my case, I kept it to a holiday look with rose reds and greens. I inked the edges, rolled down one corner and sprinkled it with some antique browns, yellows and shimmer to give it an old-fashioned look. The paper is from a small paper pad by K&Co called Julianne.

I want to say "thank you" to the entire Sweet 'n Sassy group for allowing me to be part of their team and for their caring and graciousness on a daily basis.

Stay tuned for Sweet Peeks of new sets starting Wednesday!!

Kim Singdahlsen
Joyful Creations with Kim

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T00:00:00.002-05:00

Christmas Light...

2011-12-24T04:00:00.000-05:00

Good Morning! It's Monika here today, bringing you another Christmas card.

Tonight is the Night! Christmas Eve is extra special to me. In Hungary we celebrate the greatest gift, the birth of Jesus Christ at Christmas Eve. We'd decorate our tree, have a special meal (fish or some kind of noodle dish), then open presents. It is just so magical doing all of that by the lit up Christmas tree.

I know it is too late for most of you to be making Christmas cards, and mine won't be used this year either. It will be saved for next year. It's never too early to start on your stash, is it?

I went all out on this one and used my favorite little techniques and embellishments. What do you think?

The main image is from Christmas Light clear stamp set. I used the matching Christmas Light Candle die to die-cut it. The greeting was stamped on a tag I die-cut using Tim Holtz's Decorative Strip die. In the background I used a book page, a doily, cheesecloth, Studio Calico paints, and rhinestones.

The candle image was colored with Copic Markers, then decorated with more rhinestones and clear Crackle Accent (on the candle).

My stars were die cut with Spellbinders dies. The big red star is dry embossed with Textile embossing folder by Cuttlebug. The glitter came from Michael's, one of my clearance finds.

I also did some sponging and distressing. Love to add textures that way to my cards.

Thank you for stopping by today.

HAVE A PEACEFUL AND BLESSED HOLIDAY SEASON!

Monika

Seasons Greetings

2011-12-23T07:00:00.000-05:00

Happy holidays everyone! Is everyone ready for Christmas? I'm...ummm...almost there! :-) But how can you not feel cool, calm, collected, and adoring when you see little Cocoa peeking out from behind his favorite present...a giant hunk of cheese! (This might be one of my favorite presents too!)

This image is from the A Cocoa Kind of Christmas stamp set and has been colored with Copic markers. The designer paper is from Little Yellow Bicycle (love this line) and the ribbon and button is from my random stash. I also added a tiny bit of bling to the ribbon, you can just see the shine is the photo.

Enjoy today's card and I'm hoping you have a very blessed Christmas!

This Christmas

2011-12-22T03:00:00.053-05:00

Hello, it's Bridget here and just a few days before Christmas, I wanted to share with you a project I made back in September for the Dirty Dozen gallery at Splitcoaststampers when the fabulous set Christmas Light first came out. I used a page from a Tim Holtz chipboard album to make this hanging picture - the holes were already in it and the little chains came with the album. This black metal ornament hanger was perfect for hanging it so that it can sit on top of our mantel piece.

I adhered dp to the chipboard and sanded the edges before sponging with Distress inks. I made a frame with Spellbinders Labels One and a smaller circle and embossed it using a Craft Concepts embossing folder, then sponged over the embossing with the same ink for more definition.

The verse is stamped over a sponged circle. I stamped the image three times so that I could pop up various pieces for a more dimensional look.

Here's a closer look:

I added lace and tiny pearls and a bow with a button and pearl to finish. The candle flame has a little bit of Stickles sparkle.

Just a few days left until the 25th, and by now you'll be excited or very tired and stressed - probably all three! In the middle of all your Christmas preparations and enjoyment, I hope that the words of this sentiment are very true for you..."may the warmth of the Lord's presence bring you joy."

Hugs, Bridget

Supplies include:

October Afternoon dp

SU Cherry Cobbler, Vanilla cardstock

SU ribbon

Copics

Ranger Distress Antique Linen, Frayed Burlap ink

Memento Tuxedo Black ink

Lace

Champagne pearls

Tim Holtz chipboard album page

Sanding block

Button

Craft Concepts Budding Vine embossing folder

Stickles

Spellbinders Nestabilities Circles, Labels One

Want a Challenge?

2011-12-21T06:07:00.003-05:00

I'm hosting the sketch challenge over on Splitcoaststampers today, and I drew this sketch with this image from the Love From Cocoa stamp set in mind. I love how I can use any sentiment in the set to put on the little pice of paper he's holding! I had fun with this card - the break, however temporary, from my holiday gift making and wrapping frenzy was quite welcome.

How can there only be four more days until Christmas? I'm excited, but wow do I have lots of prep work to do! W'll be hosting two holiday meals at my house. One on Christmas Eve, and another on Christmas Day. Plus, gifts that need wrapping are still arriving daily for my kids, from relatives all over the place. This year, I've taken a page from some friends and used stamps to make gift tags, instead of putting names on them. So no one know (but me) which presents belong to what person. I can't wait until Christmas morning!! This has totally made me feel like a kid again :)

Head over to Splitcoaststampers and play along in the sketch challenge this week - I hope you like it!

I also shared a new Inspiration Challenge in the Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps member company forums yesterday. I used this warm picture to inspire me to color up De"light"ful Cocoa. My sketch is from the Sweet Stop this week - it's such a great one!

I encourage you to come play along with this one too - you could combine the sketch and Inspiration Challenges if you want!!

Supplies:
Stamps: De"light"ful Cocoa (digi); Be Mine Cocoa (clear) (SNSS)
Card Stock: Purely Pomegranate, Creamy Caramel, So Saffron
Patterned Paper: Webster's Pages
Ink: Tuxedo Black (Memento)
Coloring Medium: Coppics (R81, R83, R85, BG10, BG11, C00, Y11, Y00, Y15, Y17, R20, E31, E33, E35, E51, E50)
Accessories: ribbon
Tools: cuttlebug embossing folder

Supplies (Sketch Challenge Card):
Stamps: Love From Cocoa (SNSS)
Card Stock: Black (Recollections), White (Neenah)
Patterned Paper: Olivia (Basic Grey)
Ink: Tuxedo Black (Memento), Worn Lipstick (Ranger Distress)
Coloring Medium: Copics (N0, N2, C00, C5, R20, E50, E51, BG72, 0 Colorless Blender)
Accessories: Charcoal, Blossom Baker's Twine (The Twinery, available at SNSS)
Tools: Nestabilities (Spellbinders)

And the Winner Is....

2011-12-20T08:49:00.000-05:00

We had SO much fun during our Crazy 4 Cocoa blog hop last week! Thanks to everyone who hopped along and left comments on all the blogs, and a HUGE thanks to everyone who played along with us!

It's time to draw a winner using random.org.....the lucky person is: Patricia Hays!!

She made this darling card for Operation Write Home, using the Patriotic Cocoa stamp - he's available as part of a clear stamp set and as a digi on his own! Patricia, send an email to Korin at korin@sweetnsassystamps.com that includes your snail mail address and your choice of one free Cocoa Mouse clear set or four free digis! What a fun Christmas surprise!

Dont' forget, it's still Crazy 4 Cocoa month - the entire line of Cocoa Mouse clear stamps and digi images are 10% off through December 31 (no coupon needed). Happy shopping!

Christmas Wishes

2011-12-20T07:00:00.000-05:00

Hi there...Julie Ranae here with you once again.

I can't believe that my time with SNSS is

nearly over, but I've had a great time playing

this month with the

'Snowflake Flourish' set

and here is one more Christmas-themed card

just in time for the holidays.

This is definitely a 'busy' card, but when you

break it down,

it's pretty easy to assemble.

I stamped the large flourish stamp in

two different colors

and placed one at the top and one at the bottom,

both running 'off the page'.

Then it was a matter of placing my embellishments

where they were most effective.

Here is a closeup up of the snowflake embellishment...

I am so glad you were able to stop by during

such a busy time.

I have just one more post for you next Tuesday,

and will be bringing you a CAS winter card

so until then...

Have a Very Merry Christmas!

What I used to create this project:

Stamps: Snowflake Flourish from

Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps

Designer Paper: 'Lost & Found Christmas'

from My Mind's Eye

Ink: Currant & French Roast

from A Muse Studio

Embellishments:

Die Cuts 'Lost & Found Christmas'

from My Mind's Eye

Brad & Pearls from Recollections

Tools: Snowflake die from Spellbinders

Big Shot

Comforting Thoughts

2011-12-19T08:00:00.025-05:00

Good morning, friends! I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend. With only a week left until Christmas, I thought I'd deviate from the festivities for a while and bring you some comforting thoughts and a technique I have not used in a while.

Some of the most comforting words come from Psalms 23, so I grabbed two wonderful Sweet 'n Sassy clear stamp sets, "Psalms 23" and "Wildflowers." I began by stamping Psalm 23 with Tuxedo Black ink on a piece of Select White card stock and cut it out using a Spellbinders label die. The wildflowers were then stamped with VersaMark ink and clear embossed. Peeled Paint, Tattered Rose, and Weathered Wood distress inks were then sponged over the wildflowers while the panel was still in the die. The ink was then removed from the embossing by rubbing over the whole panel with a paper towel. This was layered onto a black panel embossed with the Square Lattice EF. Other layers of white, black, and Basic Grey DP were added and mounted on a Select White card base. Black gingham, a little get well tag, and black pearls embellish the card.

As we franticly finish our Christmas preparations this week, let us ponder the wonderful words of this psalm, remember what the season is really all about, and take comfort!

...Finally...

Since we are focusing on Cocoa this month, I thought I'd wish you all a very merry Cocoa Christmas! There's one week left of the Cocoa special...all Cocoa clear stamp sets and digi images are 10% off at the SNSS store until the end of the month! What a perfect last minute gift for that special stamping friend!

Thanks so much for visiting with us today!

Customer Spotlight Sunday

2011-12-18T01:00:00.001-05:00

Can you believe we are a week away from Christmas?

Well, today is another Customer Spotlight Sunday and I have another treat for you!

Our cards today are by, Linda Beeson, and you can find her blog <<<HERE>>>

When I saw the Cocoa's Latte card above, I just loved it! I love the way she paper pieced the belly band with such pretty papers and add the rhinestone. The card has a great Christmas feel and I have a soft spot for BOTH coffee and Cocoa the mouse.

This next card is using our clear stamp set, Season of Love, and she's inspired me with this card. I love how she stamped the image in black and then used the multi colors to give it the gradient look. The little snowflakes with the pearl dots add to the embossed white cardstock. Great card!

We love to see the things you make and to spotlight our customers. If you have cards or projects you've made, we hope you'll upload them to our SCS gallery, the SNS Connection, or play along in one of our challenges!

A gift from Cocoa ~

2011-12-17T08:00:00.001-05:00

Hi everyone!

By now, the gifts are wrapped neatly beneath the tree...or in my case, not.

This month, we have been showcasing the adorable Cocoa. What better image than this one aptly named Cocoa's gift! I love to paper piece my images so this one was especially fun to create. I pulled out Echo Park Season's Greetings 6x6 pad to highlight the gift and bow. The green bow is sparkled using stardust jellyroll (didn't photograph too well) but since I told you, you can imagine it there.

Today is the final day to participate in the Crazy 4 Cocoa Bloghop. The linky is still open for your submissions, be sure to take the opportunity to win a free Cocoa stamp set or four Cocoa digis!!!

Also, Is Cocoa on your wishlist? If you haven't taken advantage of the 10% off sale on the clear Cocoa stamps and Cocoa digis in the store be sure to take a peek and view all the cute images available. But hurry, this only lasts until Dec. 31st

Supplies used:

stamp: Cocoa's gift

Inks: Memento, Copics, chalk inks

Paper: EP Season's Greetings, CS

Accessories: Spellbinder dies, SU punch, Rhinestones

Have a great weekend!

~ Mary

Peppermint Cocoa

2011-12-16T08:00:00.000-05:00

I shared another fun Inspiration Challenge over in the Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps member company forums on Splitcoaststampers last Tuesday. Last week it was all about the hot cocoa theme and peppermint colors....mmmmmm!!

I couldn't resist coloring up this sweet Cocoa image (I used the one from the Cup of Cocoa clear stamp set, but this image is also available as an individual digi). I added some great Halo Crystal glitter to the ends of the snowflakes on the cup (although it migrated everywhere!).

You should come play along with our fun challenge! While we share a new one each Tuesday (you can see the current challenge here), there is no time limit to play along! You could land a weekly "guest designer" spot just for playing along! Also, did you know that December is Crazy for Cocoa month at Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps? The entire line of Cocoa Mouse clear stamps and digis are 10% off all month long - no coupon needed! You can thank me later!

Supplies:
Stamps: Cup of Cocoa (Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps)
Card Stock: Kraft (Bazzill), White (Neenah)
Patterned Paper: Jovial (Basic Grey)
Ink: Rich Cocoa (Memento)
Coloring Medium: Copics
Accessories: Cappuccino and Maraschino twine (The Twinery, available @ SNSS)
Tools: Scallop Border Dies (SNSS); English Tea Party Doily Die (Cheery Lynn), circle punches (SU)

Crazy 4 Cocoa Blog Hop

2011-12-15T08:00:00.004-05:00

You may have heard we're going a bit bonkers for Cocoa Mouse this month. Over the past couple of years, that silly little squeaker has made his way into many a stampers' heart so we thought we'd celebrate him all month long. One way we're celebrating is with a Cocoa stamp and digi SALE! Through December 31st, all Cocoa stamps and digis are 10% off!

We're also celebrating with today's fabulous blog hop. The Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps team has teamed up with some of our Sweet 'n Sassy Digi Challenge gals to bring you nothing but Cocoa today......BUT, the best part is, YOU get to play along, too!! Once you are done experiencing all the Cocoa goodness we have to share with you today, we'd like you to use the Linky Tool at the end of this post to share YOUR Cocoa creations with us!! In fact, if you do, we'll enter you into a drawing to win your choice of 1 free Cocoa stamp set or 4 free Cocoa digis :)!!

A few quick details:

*Deadline to share your link is Saturday December 17th.

*Your blog post must be current (not something prior to today's date).

*You may use any of our Cocoa digis or stamps.

*To enter, add your blog link to the Linky Tool at the bottom of this post. If you are having trouble with the linky tool, you may add your link to the comments.

To kick things off today I have something for Valentine's Day :). We're all in Christmas mode right now, but Valentine's Day is the next big "card making" holiday so I thought I'd get a head start.

We just got in this adorable new paper from Echo Park called Yours Truly and it goes perfectly with the Love From Cocoa set I used. Don't you agree?

I love using lots of patterned papers together, but did you know you can do so without adding a ton of layers to your card? Simply use strips to create one layer :). This is actually a fabulous way to use up those strips of scraps you have left over from other cards. Just think about all the great cards you can make with the paper you've been throwing in your scrap bin!! :)

Since I didn't leave a border around my DP like I usually do, I grabbed my sewing machine to add a stitched border. There is just something about a border that really frames out your card. My image was stamped on Neenah Solar White CS and colored with Copics. The sentiment was stamped right inside the image. I love that about this set....most of the sentiment fit inside the paper Cocoa is holding :). I then cut and embossed the image using a yummy Spellbinders die. I added some ribbon, Blossom & Maraschino baker's twine, a few roses, and rhinestones hearts to finish it off.

I hope you enjoyed this early valentine :). Your next stop in this Crazy 4 Cocoa Blog Hop is my personal blog....yep, I have ANOTHER Cocoa creation to share with you :).

And just in case you get lost along the way, here is the full list of participating DT blogs...

Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps

Kim O'Connell

Sandy Domelle

Monika Davis

Carol Longacre

Ceal Pritchett

~ CooCoo for Cocoa ~

2011-12-14T08:00:00.000-05:00

Hello, my Sweet N Sassy friends!

Today I'm going to share with you my current favorite technique to use on images. I dubbed it "The Telescoping Image".

Here's what it looks like:

The technique is quite simple. You will want to stamp and color your image twice. Yes, I know this is a lot to ask ...LOL... but for those of us who love to color, it's just plain fun.

Next, you are going to cut the two images with nesting dies. The better they fit (the dies), the more symmetrical your image will come out. For this card I used three dies. I first cut one image with the largest of the three and the smallest of the three. In order to line them up nicely, place all three dies on your image and then remove the middle one and tack your dies down with a post it note so they do not move while you run them through your machine. The accomplishes the bottom and the top layer of your telescope. For the second image, I did the same process only removing the largest and smallest dies after they were fitted. This leaves you with the middle layer when cut. Each layer is then popped up on dimensionals.

I added stickles to the snowflakes on the cup and puff paint to the marshmallows.

Here are my details:

Stamps: Cup of Cocoa clear set

Papers: Bashful Blue, GP White, Crumb Cake

Ink: Versafine Black Onyx, Chocolate Chip, Copics, White gel pen

Accessories: 7/8" metallic ribbon, snowflake dots embossing folder, scalloped square nesties, dimensionals, stickles, puff paint, sticky tape, warm brown rhinestones

~*~*~*~

Thanks so much for stopping by! Be sure to check back tomorrow as we have a fun surprise for you!!

Hugs!

Warm Hugs

2011-12-13T07:00:00.000-05:00

Hi everyone!

Julie Ranae here and so glad to be back with another
quick and easy
project for you this holiday season.

I don't know about you, but I am always looking for a
way to create fun cards that are easy,
but don't appear that way ; )

That's what we have here with this simple card.

The only stamping that has been done uses the single

snowflake from the 'Snowflake Flourish' set.

It's hard to tell from this photo, but I only stamped
half of the base card and the top tag.
From there, I just die cut my snowflakes,

layered coordinating cardstock, and done.

Easy peasy!

I love having these types of simple cards on hand during the
Christmas season because I always find
that there are additional

cards that I end up sending out here and there.

Of course the 'Snowflake Flourish' set is perfect for
the winter season in general,
so if you don't have it in your

stamp collection yet, I hope you'll pop over to the shop and get it ordered...
you will LOVE it!

What I used to create this project:
Stamps: Snowflake Flourish from
Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps
Designer Paper: Bo Bunny 'Blitzen'
Ink: Sky & Slate from A Muse Studio
Embellishments: Brad from
Making Memories

Cocoa Mouse Likes Ornaments!

2011-12-12T08:08:00.000-05:00

This month at Sweet 'n Sassy, it is ALL about Cocoa Mouse! I pulled out one of my favorite images and a LOT of glitter to make this little card.

On my personal blog, I love to give tips and hints - but I often focus on the very basics. A year or so ago, I was with three very experienced cardmakers and we were watching one of them do something very basic but in a way that was new to all of us - and the rest of us just shook our heads and said "why didn't I think of that"? That moment made me aware of the fact that we often get so focused on new tools and techniques that sometimes we overlook the basics.

A couple of my blog followers asked about glittering - so I thought I would also share my tips here!

First, I am at heart a clean and simple cardmaker - so easy is ALWAYS better. I almost never glitter small, detailed parts of the image. I typically glitter the entire image panel or, at most, a large portion of the image. This keeps it simple.

Second, get a large bottle of glitter. I use Martha Stewart's Crystal Fine Glitter. She sells small vials in multi-packs, and regular size bottles in individual colors, but also large bottles in the basic colors. (They go for around $10, but during the holidays you can easily find them half off.) Then dump your bottle into a flat, square Tupperware. I don't know about you, but I spent a lot of years carefully sprinking glitter onto my image, then tapping it off onto a scrap paper, then using that scrap paper to funnel the glitter back into the bottle. Putting it in a Tupperware makes it so much easier! My Tupperware stays full of glitter year round!

Third, pull out your Xyron. I know many, many crafters have this sticker-making machine, but few of us actually use it. I have the 2.5" sticker machine which is perfect for almost all glittering. If you don't have one, the go for about $20-$25 at the big box craft stores and that's before the standard 40% off coupon. If you like glitter- it's a great investment!

The steps are simple....

Put your image (or in this case, my patterned paper) through the Xyron UPSIDE-DOWN so the sticky ends up on the top surface.

Roll it through the machine and it comes out face-down on the paper. (This is terrible paper to demonstrate with because there is pattern on both sides. I am glittering the polka-dot pattern which is on the other side.)

Peel it off and dump it in your Tupperware of glitter and you have a totally glittered square of paper!

I also glittered the ornament on the Cocoa image. Larger portions of an image are also quite easy to do using the same techniques. All you have to do is create a reverse mask.

Put your masked image, face-down, through the Xyron.

Peel off the mask and dump the image into your Tupperware of glitter.

As with all basic techniques some of you have been doing this all along. Some of you may have even easier ways of doing it. But some of you just had a light bulb come on. I know that I did the first time that I saw glitter in a Tupperware!!

I hope you all can find time these last few busy holiday weeks to get good and glittery!!!

Kim Singdahlsen
Joyful Creations with Kim

Customer Spotlight Sunday!

2011-12-11T01:00:00.000-05:00

A very HAPPY Sunday morning to you!

Today we have some more wonderful cards to share with you for our Customer Spotlight Sunday. All of these beautiful cards were made by DJ Rants and you can see her blog HERE or her SCS gallery HERE. For the card above she used our cute penguin from our, Cozy Friends, stamp set.

I love all the detail on DJ's cards! She used some wonderful papers, dies and embossing on this card with our Polar Bear from the same set above, Cozy Friends.

And this last card is made using our, Christmas Light, stamp set! I just love the way she colored this image with the shading and details!

Thank you DJ for using our stamps!

We love to see the things you make and to spotlight our customers. If you have cards or projects you've made, we hope you'll upload them to SCS, the SNS Connection, or play along in one of our challenges!

Warm & Cozy Thoughts

2011-12-10T00:00:00.000-05:00

Good morning!

I have a Christmas card to share with you today that I created using the Cozy Friends stamp set. I love the quilted patterns Korin has added to the two focal images included in this stamp set. I paper pieced the bear as well as his hat and scarf, adding just a big of highlights with a couple of copic markers for some depth.

I keeping with the Christmas theme, I decided to make my card look like a Christmas package all wrapped up, so a doily and some pretty ribbon finished it off. I added some brads in each corner and embellished them with some diamond stickles for some added sparkle.

Have a great day! I hope you are warm & cozy today!
Jessica

Snowflake Flourishes

2011-12-09T04:00:00.000-05:00

Hello! It's Monika here with a Clean and Simple (CAS) card.

I've been wanting to brake in my Snowflake Flourishes clear stamp set. It is such a lovely set and can be used for any occasions during the winter months.

I decided to make a card, using a clear sheet. You can find it in craft or office supply stores.

I stamped the flourishes with Black StazOn ink on the clear sheet. The greeting was stamped on a white strip of paper. Then the front was decorated with Pearls, Caribbean Baker's Twine, and a paper flower.

The turquoise strip was punched with a Martha Stewart border punch and was attached inside of the front cover. This way I was able to cover the adhesive. I needed a place to write a message, so I die-cut a doily with Cheery Lynn French Pastry Doily die. I attached that to the inside. To cover the adhesive I used on the doily, I also attached a small circle to the back side of my card.

Hope I inspired you to make something today.

Thanks for stopping by,

Monika

Itty Bitty Wreath

2011-12-08T08:00:00.000-05:00

Holiday greetings everyone! Welcome to another posting day on the fabulous Sweet 'n Sassy blog! We're so excited that you've stopped by for a visit! Our team offers a wide range of design styles so there's sure to be something here for everyone!!

Today I'm sharing an image from one of my favorite holiday stamp sets, Christmas Itty Bitties. I love the sweet designs in this set and that it's super easy to color one of the images and then use a 1 1/4" square punch to punch out the shape. You can use a lot of these itty bitty images on a card or like today's card, only one! I also seem to be very keen on the all white look combined with these images, keeping the coloring to traditional holiday colors of red and green.

This is a 4.5" x 4.5" card and I used a snowflake embossing folder from Tim Holtz to emboss the second cardstock layer. The wreath was colored with Copics and I added a small border of green cardstock behind the image. The twine, also available from Sweet 'n Sassy, was wrapped behind the image and I added red Stickles to the berries on the wreath for just a tiny bit of bling!

I hope you enjoyed today's card and that you have a very blessed holiday!

Cocoa's Candle

2011-12-07T05:11:00.004-05:00

Hi, it's Bridget here with a card made using one of my favorite Cocoa digi's, De"light"ful Cocoa. I love burning candles to give a warm glow on long dark winter nights and I can almost smell the Christmassy cinnamon fragrance when I look at this cute Cocoa image! It's Crazy for Cocoa month over at Sweet and Sassy Stamps so don't forget to pop over and take a look while all Cocoa clear stamps and digi's are 10% off!

It's lashing snowy rain at the moment here in Northern Ireland so this was a fun card to work on today.

I popped Cocoa up on a doodled frame and used today's sketch challenge at Splitcoaststampers using some of my favorite October Afternoon dp's. I sponged all the edges with Ranger Distress inks, even the image, just to tone down the brightness of the colors. And when I'm trying for that retro/vintage look, I often dye the twine because I find it tones down the bright white and makes it look like it's been in a trunk in Grandma's attic for the last 50 years! You can find a fabulous selection of twine at Sweet n' Sassy Stamps. I used a mix of Copic blending ink and Y21 ink for this. The sentiment is from a fabulous set called Poppies and Greetings. If any of you have Papertrey Ink's Tiny Tags dies, a lot of the small sentiments in this great set will fit them perfectly. I don't normally sew on my cards - our house is so small that I have to keep my portable machine in a closet, but because it was out for some other sewing, I stitched between the panels.

Supplies include:

Sweet n' Sassy Stamps De"light"ful Cocoa digi

Sweet n' Sassy Stamps Poppies and Greetings

Twine

October Afternoon dp

October Afternoon buttons

Copic ink

Papertrey Ink Tiny Tags die

Ranger Distress Frayed Burlap, Antique Linen ink

SU Real Red cardstock

Black fine line marker

Bejeweled Snowflakes

2011-12-06T06:00:00.000-05:00

Hi everyone! Julie Ranae here with you today.
I am so excited and honored to have been asked to be
the December Guest Designer here at
Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps.

It was not a tough decision for me when it came to which stamp
set I wanted to play with this month.
I fell in love with Snowflake Flourish the day I laid
eyes on it and have had a great deal of fun working on
different design ideas.

This week, I'm bringing you a pretty simple design
but one that I think is fun and effective.

I layered two different inks on top of one another and
stamped the flourish on crisp white cardstock.
From there, it was a matter of finding an array of
gemstone brads to compliment each snowflake.
Don't you just LOVE the font on the sentiment?!
I sure do and love how beautifully it stamps in
a Slate Grey ink. From there, it really is just a matter
of layering the pieces
on complimentary cardstock panels before placing it on the card base.

Here is a view from the top down showing how
dimensional the brads make this card...

Easy-peasy but with an elegance as well.

I'm so glad you came by today and I am really looking
forward to sharing with you each Tuesday this month!

What I used to create this project:
Stamps: Snowflake Flourish from
Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps
Ink: Ocean & Slate from A Muse Studio
Ocean Depth by VersaMark
Embellishments: Gems/Pearl brads by
Making Memories,
American Crafts and The Paper Studio

Joyful Christmas

2011-12-05T00:09:00.003-05:00

I hope that your holiday preparations are going well. As for me and my decorating...well my tree is still not up which my daughters are not happy about lol. However, I do at least have some of my Christmas cards finished. Take a peek at one them:

I stamped this super cute snowman onto Neenah white and colored with copics. I also stamped just the scarf onto patterned paper and pieced it onto my colored image. It is available both in clear stamps (Welcome Jesus) and as a digital image (Smiley Snowman). I sponged pink ink around the colored image, added rhinestones for buttons, white stickles for snow, and pearls in the corners.

Thanks for looking and have a blessed day!

Customer Spotlight Sunday

2011-12-04T01:00:00.004-05:00

Good Morning!

Today we have Ann Clack in our Customer Spotlight! Ann has some wonderful cards and projects on her blog and I enjoy checking out what she has new. I chose these two projects above because I love the way she has showcased our sweet Cocoa. This month the Sweet 'n Sassy DT is focusing in on Cocoa so you will see LOTS of him in the coming weeks!

Ann used our, Cup of Cocoa, for the cute basket on top and our, Cocoa's Mittens for the card.

Fabulous Folds

2011-12-03T08:00:00.001-05:00

Hello friends! Hope you are enjoying your day! I've been having fun playing with some fabulous folds from the new 3D and Fun Folds CD produced by Technique Junkie Newsletter. TJN joined up with Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps for a blog hop yesterday. Here are my two projects I created for the HOP! The first one is a "Pleated Front Card."

I began with a craft card base and stamped the snowflakes and swirls from the "Snowflake Flourish" clear stamp set with Fresh Snow ink. The card front was then scored and pleated. Each edge was sponged with Fresh Snow ink and pierced. The "Winter Friends" digi was sized to fit the front of the card and colored with copic markers. Polar White Flower Soft, Diamond Stickles, a snowflake die, and several small gems add sparkle and texture to finish the card.

Here is what the inside of the card looks like. This was a unique and fun fold to work with and is one of the techniques included in the new 3D and Fun Folds CD!

For my next project I used the "Goodie Box Tutorial."

This is what the front of the box looks like. A border punch was used for the edges. The die cut candle image is from the beautiful "Christmas Light" clear stamp set and was colored with copic markers. Graphic 45 DP was used to decorate the front panel. Some Glossy Accents was used on the berries and the candle drips.

Here is another view of the "Goodie Box" so you can see the dimensions of the box better.

I decided to fill my "Goodie Box" with little tea light candles since it fit the theme of my card. When you open the box...

you will see a little pocket with a message tag on the left and a package of tea light candles on the right. The wonderful thing about this fun fold is that it can be adapted to fit any occasion and makes such a lovely gift!

Hope you've enjoyed these projects! Thanks for stopping by...have a fabulous weekend!

Dear Santa, Love from Cocoa ~

2011-12-02T08:00:00.005-05:00

Hello Everyone! I cannot believe we are in December. It is that time of year we pull out our Christmas lists and check it twice ~ Cocoa is no different, I featured him sending a letter to Santa! He is too cute, who can resist not giving Cocoa the adorable attention he deserves.

I layered Cocoa onto my spellbinder fleur des lis accent after I cut him out with my circle cutter. Cocoa is coloured with my copics and adorned with some yummy organdy ribbon. Here are my details on my card.

Stamps: Love from Cocoa

Sentiment: handwritten

Paper: MME

accessories: SU snowflake folder, ribbon, spellbinder

Take some time to colour a Cocoa or two this weekend if you are looking for some creative outlet. Have a great weekend and enjoy your festivities!

Be blessed ~ Mary

Joint Blog Hop with Technique Junkies Newsletter

2011-12-02T07:00:00.002-05:00

Hello and welcome to Sweet ‘n Sassy Stamps and Technique Junkie Newsletter joint Blog Hop! Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps is happy to be helping the Technique Junkie Newsletter show case their new 3D and Fun Folds CD!

Here's a bit of info about the Technique Junkies Newsletter owned by my sweet friend, Pat Huntoon....

“The Technique Junkie Newsletter has been publishing rubber stamping technique tutorials since 2002. The 3D and Fun Folds CD contains 70 step-by-step technique tutorials in pdf format – perfect dimensions, perfect directions and great pictures for every step. Visit www.techniquejunkies.com for more details about the CD and the Technique Junkie Newsletter.”

TJN is hosting a Blog Hop each day to celebrate this new CD and each day brings an opportunity for prizes from some of wonderful companies! Please hop along EVERY DAY and take your time visiting each blog! You have until 11:59pm EST December 2^nd to leave comments on as many blogs as you can to win the Grand Prize.

On Saturday, December 3, Pat from Technique Junkie Newsletter will announce the winners from each company. Be sure to hop along on each day! There will be FIVE WINNERS! On Monday,

December 5^th, Pat will announce ONE LUCKY WINNER with a GRAND PRIZE with a bundle of prizes from all of the participating businesses.

If you are just starting here, please head back to the Technique Junkie Blog and go from there. You won't want to miss any stops along the way – in order to win you will need to comment on everyone’s blog AND Pat Huntoon’s Blog. There will be an additional chance to win by playing along in her Blog Hop!

My good friend Chris Dickinson has created this fabulous project for me to share with you today using our stamps and a technique from the new Fancy Folds CD.

Your next stop on the hop is Cathy McCauley, but just in case there are any hiccups, here is the whole list of celebrants on this Blog Hop!

The Technique Junkie Newsletter Blog

Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps Blog

Pat Huntoon

A December Introduction....

2011-12-01T08:00:00.000-05:00

Hello friends! Can you believe we have reached December already? I feel like I blinked and November just disappeared. Regardless, I'm thrilled that December has arrived...it's my favorite time of year. We have so many fun things planned this month, and to get them started I thought I'd introduce you to our fabulously swell guest designer!

I'm so excited to finally be able to share with you all that our December Guest Designer is none other than the amazingly talented Julie Ranae! Here's a bit about her, in her own words:

Julie Ranae comes from The Forest City of Rockford, Illinois. She has been married to Paul, her British-import, for over 20 years, is a mom of two children and grandma to four grandsons.

Her professional background in retail marketing & consulting eventually led into her opening the largestrubber stamp and paper-crafting store in Illinois. She has gone on to organize paper-crafting events andworkshop and retreat weekends which have drawn crafters from all over the world.

In June 2009, she began a new journey with her creative blog Julie’s Open Window. It quickly becamean outlet for her passion of creative writing and a place to share her work. Recently celebrating a 2-year ‘blogaversary’, she is honored that 800+ people have become followers and participate in a varietyof blog hops, challenges and fun when they visit.

She is the creator of the very popular weekly color challenge, The Play Date Café. Her newest challengeis CAS-ual Fridays , which features the Clean & Simple Design style. She currently the Design TeamCoordinator for The Twinery and Sweet Stamp Shop, and a designer for The Craft’s Meow & MarketStreet Stamps. Her work in the rubber stamping industry has been featured in a variety of tradepublications and her designs have been featured in Scrapbook News & Review, Paper Craft Planet,CARDS and Moxie Fab World.

We are truly honored to have Julie with us this month, and can't wait to see what she has created to share with everyone!

~ Warm Hugs on a cold winter day ~

2011-11-30T08:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Wednesday, Friends!

As I write this post, I am sitting in my living room with only the lights of the Christmas tree. We haven't decorated the tree just yet as we have a new kitten (he's just over 3 mo old) and we're going in stages so that he learns to stay clear of the tree. So far, so good! The soft glow of the white lights is so relaxing. I'm ready to start playing some Mannheim Steamroller!

This week it's starting to turn a bit colder, so I was thinking of warm things. Hot chocolate, chai tea, a roaring fire in the fireplace and my favorite blanket.

With those things in mind, I came up with my card to share today...

Here are my details:

Stamps: Sweet N Sassy Stamps' Snowflake Flourish Clear Set

Papers: GP White, Crumb Cake, Cherry Cobbler, Lost and Found Union Square dp

Ink: Riding Hood Red, Tim Holtz' tea bag distressing ink

Accessories: 5/8" deep red/white gingham ribbon, fleur de lis frame die, corner rounder, The Twinery red/white twine, stardust stickles, gold 1/2 pearls, dimensionals, sticky tape, MS snowflake punch

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Thanks so much for stopping by today!

Warm HUGS!

Vintage Rhubarb

2011-11-29T06:55:00.004-05:00

It's hard to believe this is my last blog post, November has gone by so quickly! I've had so much fun creating cards for you and I hope you've enjoyed them too. I'm going to leave you with one last card using the sweet set, Rhubarb's Christmas.

Rhubarb is such a cute little fella! I love the look of him stamped and colored on watercolor paper with stamp pads and an aquapainter, it gives him such texture. Antique linen and vintage photo distress inks were sponged around the edge before matting him on another oval. The Christmas Blessings sentiment from the Christmas Joy clear stamp set was embossed in gold sparkle embossing powder. Some vintage lace and ribbons finish up his look.

Recipe:

stamps: Rhubarb's Christmas, Christmas Joy

ink: timber brown Stazon, assorted SU! inks to color, vintage photo and antique linen distress, versamark

paper: early espresso, very vanilla, Recollections Naughty or Nice, watercolor paper

accessories: ribbon, lace, liquid pearls, SU! ticket corner punch, oval nestabilities, gold ep

I wish you all a joyful holiday season and Merry Christmas!

Happy Stamping,

~Holly

Wildflowers in Thanks

2011-11-28T07:49:00.000-05:00

Good morning everyone! I hope that all of you who celebrate Thanksgiving had a wonderful and relaxed holidays! I found myself within enough time to really think about everyone for whom I was grateful and I made sure that I called and/or made cards for them.

This card is for a particular friend who has recently gone so far above and beyond for me. Her own cards tend toward vintage collage. I don't have the talent nor the supplies for that style, so I tried to base the card in my own fairly simple style but by adding a text background and some sponging on the edges, I think it takes on a vintage look.

The stamp set is Wildflowers. I also used Sweet 'n Sassy's Lacey Eyelet Border Dies to add the lace and ribbon embellishment.

The wildflower stamp that I used is so flexible. Bridget created this "simply" stunning card; Harriet used it on this soft and gentle card and Jessica created a bright bouquet on her cheerful card!

The inside uses a sentiment from Blessing & Thanks which has a few sentiments that are perfect for Thanksgiving but is also great year-round with its thank you and blessings sentiments.

Thanks for dropping by!

Kim Singdahlsen

Customer Spotlight Sunday

2011-11-27T01:00:00.001-05:00

Good Morning!

Today we have Makiko Jones in our Customer Spotlight! Makiko runs our Sweet 'n Sassy Digi Challenge for us every week and makes wonderful cards! She is a vital part of Sweet 'n Sassy and we appreciate her so much. I thought it would be fun to spotlight her so that those of you who don't frequent the Digi Challenge would see some of her cards and maybe stop by her blog!

Cozy Friends Shaker Card...

2011-11-25T06:00:00.000-05:00

Good Morning!

I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving day yesterday.

I have a fun shaker card today. The circle images from Cozy Friends clear stamp set are perfect for making shaker elements.

First I stamped and colored my image with Copic Markers, then cut it out. Next I die-cut a scallop circle out of Window Sheet. I put a very thin strip of dimensional tape around the colored panel, put some Micro Beads inside, and attached the clear scallop circle on top. Then I stamped another image, colored the circle strip, and cut it out. Attached that to the clear circle, and also covered up the dimensional tape that was showing through the clear sheet.

The background was embossed with Snowflakes embossing folder. To dress up my card, I used a doily, rhinestones, and Baker's Twine. The greeting was stamped on a ticket die-cut and stapled onto the card.

Hope I inspired you to try to make one!

Thanks for visiting,

Monika

Warm Chocolate Hugs

2011-11-24T08:00:00.000-05:00

This week's CAS challenge over on Splitcoaststampers is to make a card with a winter/holiday theme. Easy peasy for me, because I am currently in love with this gorgeous Snowflake Flourish set. I kept my card super simple, and added the sentiment on a quick little banner I made. I spritzed the left side with some water and rolled the edge around my paper piercer. Spritzing it with water helps it roll smoothly. I fussy cut a few snowflakes to pop up on foam tape as well.

Important SHIPPING Announcement:

Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps will be closed over the Thanksgiving holiday to enjoy time with our family. You may continue to place orders however we will not be shipping November 23rd-November 30th. Shipping will resume December 1st. Thank you for understanding.

Supplies:
Stamps: Snowflake Flourish (SNSS)
Card Stock: Kraft (Bazzill)
Ink: Rich Cocoa (Memento)
Tools: paper piercer (to roll edge), spray bottle (Stampendous)

Snowflakes

2011-11-23T07:00:00.003-05:00

Greetings everyone and welcome to the Thanksgiving Eve (well it's almost eve) post! Hope everyone is ready and excited about tomorrow's Thanksgiving festivities! We're looking forward to spending the day with a few couples from church. It's been a tradition for the past 10 years or so and we always have a wonderful day!

As for today's card, I couldn't help but share a card made with one of the newest releases, Snowflake Flourish. Let's see, I love snowflakes and swirls and this set combines those two ideas into one image...swoon...I'm in love! The large snowflake swirl image was used on the white paper banner, which also has a hint of Tumbled Glass Distress Ink on the edges. I also stamped a few of the single snowflake images in a darker blue (Chipped Shappire), cut them out, and popped them up with foam tape. I love this large sentiment and decided to add a whole lotta rhinestones around the edge of the circle to add that extra bling. The designer paper is from Little Yellow Bicycle and has become one of my favorite winter lines.

I hope you enjoyed today's card and I'm wishing you all a Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-22T08:00:00.001-05:00

Wow! Thanksgiving is only 2 days away, are you thawing your turkey yet? Maybe you're already decorating for Christmas! Traditionally we decorate the Saturday after Thanksgiving and then attend the Holiday Stroll our town hosts in the evening. The polar bear from Cozy Friends has decided to decorate a little early this year!

Doesn't he look so cute and festive with that wreath around him? First I embossed the polar bear in white on crumb cake and colored him with prismacolor pencils. I used a black marker to emphasize some of his facial features, added glitter to his fur and cut him out. The wreath is snipped from a piece of dp from the Recollections Naughty or Nice stack. I cut a slot in the bottom and inserted Mr. Bear. Here's a close up...

I added some red gems, a red bow and jingle bells attached with twine to decorate his wreath. The main panel is from the My Mind's Eye Countdown to Christmas pad.

Recipe:

stamps: Cozy Friends

ink: versamark

paper: SU! crumb cake, riding hood red, MME Countdown to Christmas, Recollections Naughty or Nice

accessories: baker's twine, jingle bells, prismacolor pencils, glitter, ribbon, gems

How about getting a head start on your holiday shopping? Starting today Sweet 'n Sassy is offering 25% off ALL Clear Stamp Sets AND Dies! (excludes bundles)

Thanks for stopping by! I wish you all a Blessed Thanksgiving as you celebrate the things you're thankful for.

~Holly

A Silhouette Thankyou

2011-11-21T04:28:00.001-05:00

Hello, it's Bridget here today with a very quick and simple sponging and silhouette card for you - I love the look of a black silhouette against a bright splash of color. And in the middle of making Christmas cards, I had the urge to make something fresh and flowery!

I sponged the card base using SU's Certainly Celery and Old Olive, then used a Fiskar's punch to round the corners. Sweet and Sassy Stamps Wildflowers set works wonderfully to stamp multiple times at different heights across the bottom of a card, whatever the width. The sentiments are beautiful and I like to use them for thank you cards especially - I added a small row of black pearls as an accent.

The gems in the flower centers are colored with Copic Y95 to match the green. To finish I added some black and white gingham ribbon to pick up on the black of the silhouette.

Hope it's a good Monday for you!

Hugs, Bridget

Supplies:

White Linen cardstock

Gingham ribbon

Sweet and Sassy Stamps Wildflowers

Versafine Black Onyx ink

Pearls

Stampin Up Old Olive, Certainly Celery ink

Gems

Copic

Fiskar's corner Rounder

Customer Spotlight Sunday

2011-11-20T06:00:00.001-05:00

A Happy Sunday Morning to you! This is our Customer Spotlight Sunday and I have another sweet Customer to share with you today. Our cards today are made by Donna Hanley

I chose more than one of her cards to share because she has so many cute ones. Donna loves Rhubarb so I had to share one of her Rhubarb cards. The card above is one of our newest images, Cupid Rhubarb. She's colored him so perfectly!

What I love about this Cocoa card is the non traditional Christmas colors and how cute it looks! For this card she used our Cocoa's Christmas Tree digi but it also comes in stamp form too.

And one last Rhubarb card, Rhubarb's Snowy Day, digi which also comes in stamp form, Rhubarb's Winter Fun.

Donna is an active member on our Sweet 'n Sassy Connection. We enjoy getting to know the ladies that share their cards and play along with our challenges there. Thank you Donna for all the wonderful cards you make!

We appreciate each of you that share your cards and projects on SCS and our SNS Connection!

Have a great week!

~ There's No Business Like Snow Business ~

2011-11-19T08:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Saturday, Friends!

First, I want to give a big shout out to Janette for swapping post days with me. Craziness has set in here in the McMillen household.

Today I'm sharing with you a new digi from Korin. This adorable sketchy snowman just warms my heart :)

I used the negative piece of some punched snowflakes to trim the bottom on my snowflake embossed cardstock. The image is created using the telescoping image technique.

Here are my details:

Stamps: Sketchy Snowman digi, Freezin' Season (sentiment)

Colors: GP White, Cherry Cobbler

Ink: Versafine Black Onyx, copics, white gel pen

Accessories: 3/8" christmas gingham ribbon, MS snowflake punch, gold 1/2 pearls, snowflake embossing folder, sticky tape, circle punch, nestabilities,

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Thanks so much for stopping by!

Hugs!

Holly