Clearance Rack Blitz - new and improved with online ordering!

The most nerve-racking and exciting promotion of last year returns, new and improved!  With online ordering, your order can be placed in real time, reducing the chance of missing out on any items you want to grab.  Prices will be reduced by up to 80%, so jump on quick for best choice, just in time for Christmas!  There is no printed list this year, because items can only be ordered online, so I can't give any clues about what might be on sale.  Last year was fantastic, with everything from stamps to tools to DSP and accessories deeply discounted

How to shop online:  Click the "Shop Now" at the top right on the blog, and look at the left sidebar of the Online Store for a Clearance Rack menu, which should go live at midnight tonight, AEDST.  If you stay up (and from last year's experience, plenty will!) and it isn't there, refresh your browser after a few minutes to check in case the computers are running a touch late.
Add your products to your cart, and checkout in a very similar way to other online shopping sites.  You will be given the option to enter a Hostess Code, and this is the current one for this week:
3BKCPX7J
Your order will be shipped directly to you, and the minimum postage is $5.95, or 5% of the order total, whichever is greater.

I would like to thank you all for your custom this year, and wish you all a very happy and relaxing Christmas and holiday.  Please stay safe if you're on the roads, and I look forward to seeing you next year!

Mad Scientist Party Suite - and dry-ice icecream recipes!

I recently held a party for my 12 year old son - it took a couple of months for me to get organised, what with working and bushfires, and all I can say is "thank goodness for MDS!!"
I started out with a theme of sorts in mind, using the "Howlstooth and Scaringbone" DSP, as his favourite colour has always been orange.  The party was to be a "Mad Scientist" party, and it went from "Mum, no one will come!" to a hefty 24 kids.  Gulp.  Just as well I'm now a highschoool science teacher!  In the end it turned out to be quite a bit of fun, for me and them.  We did nine different activities in 3 jam-packed hours, and judging by the smiles on their faces and parental comments in the days afterwards, it was a big success! 

 

I printed invitations three to an A4 page on glossy photo paper, using one of my favourite pics of Einstein.

I made personalised white cotton aprons, with name labels printed onto T-shirt transfer.  I used a selection of labels and embellishments from the MDS program, and arranged them on an orange chevron background on A4 paper, to maximise the number I could print on each sheet of transfer.  I made one template in MDS, and added names in Word so I could save successive versions (and reuse the original!).  I also used more printouts of these tags for their goodie bags.

For the activities, I printed out instructions using a similar template, as the kids were going to be doing some of the activities themselves.  The icecream turned out to be spectacular, using just reasonably readily available dry ice.  The "recipe" was as follows - 600ml thickened cream, 500g carton custard, 1/4 cup milk, squirt of vanilla paste and 3 tablespoons icing mixture.  Blend in a stand mixer, and add flavourings of choice.  In a blender, crush about a cup worth of dry ice pellets into powder, and tip slowly into the stand mixer while it is running.  Keep running until the fog is mostly gone, scraping down at least once, the bottom of the bowl will be the coldest part.  Add more crushed dry ice if the consistency isn't firm enough, otherwise scoop into cones or store in a plastic tub and put in the freezer until you want it.   On party day I made a batch of vanilla and a batch of cookies and cream using crushed Oreos.  The next day I made subsequent batches using the left over dry ice with a tin of mango halves and a small tin of passionfruit pulp (seriously yum!), 2 tablespoons nutella spread and half a cup of choc chips (also yum), plain vanilla using vanilla bean paste and crushed oreos. The surprise was the fact that tiny bubbles of carbon dioxide trapped in the icecream give it a slightly fizzy taste.

Another activity the kids did was making sherbet, and I had prepared all the ingredients in labelled tubs. The funniest part was watching the faces of a couple of brave souls who dared to taste the tartaric and citric acid crystals, even after being told they would be sour.  The very best learning by doing!  It would also have highlighted the interesting chemical reaction between the sour and the sweet, and the bubbles from the acid and carbonate reaction.  Not to mention the importance of following instructions ;-p

 

And finally, there were the thankyou cards, that I printed four to an A4 page.  This one was a super quick production using a designer template from the Lemonade Stand MDS suite, and I switched out the pre-designed DSPs for the Howlstooth and Scaringbone patterns,  I changed the sentiment, and voila!

Available for purchase - MDS Christmas Class - Learn and Create at the same time!

 The three cards shown here are all made with Stampin' Up!'s My Digital Studio Software, and were designed by me to include a range of different techniques, exploring the functionality of the program.  The cards use only the stamp sets and contents of the standard installation of the MDS software.  The class includes full written instructions to create each of these cards step by step, along with instructions for printing them to create an A4 page of each containing 4 card fronts.

You'll learn to use the program as you create, and will soon be zooming off to customise and modify, making new projects of your own.

The cost of the tutorial is just $15, and you'll be sent a file with the instructions after your payment has been received.    If you don't already own the software, are located within Australia and purchase it via my online store at this link HERE , I will post you a package of cardstock and envelopes to complete two of each card (six cards in total), with instructions for embellishing the cards for a handmade touch.

Payment can be made via Paypal with the address michelle.dyson@bigpond.com

Any questions?  Just email me at the same address!

Tutorials galore! Video tips for SU goodies

Want some creative inspiration and a bit of guidance to go with it?  Explore some of our recently introduced products such as the Rotary Trimmer as well as some old favourites like the Stampamajig in this series of technique videos done by some of my favourite SU staff, Shannon, Carrie and Donna.  It's called the 'show me how' series, and it is bound to get those creative juices bubbling (and maybe some under-utilised tools out of storage).  If you see anything must-have, you can shop online via the 'shop now' button at the right side.  Why not bookmark the site to visit regularly - there's more and more being added each time I check.  Just click on the banner (made by me in My Digital Studio) above.
Enjoy!

Time is flying by...

Oops, I think, as I look at the date of the last post I made here.  I did have a post saved to drafts a while back, but it never quite made it out into blog land (maybe I'll finish it next just to confuse you all :-)  ).

I've been quite busy doing all kinds of things, both stamping and non-stamping related.  I am now a qualified Bushfire Fighter with the NSW Rural Fire Service, and have even had a few callouts to minor incidents.  I have been teaching up a storm, working full time at a local school for the last 4 weeks of term, and there may be more work there for the upcoming term.  Phew!  But, I do enjoy being busy, and my papercraft is what keeps me sane!

There has been lots happening at Stampin' Up!, so grab a cuppa and we can catch up together.  I plan on writing my newsletter tonight, so if you're not on my mailing list, visit my DBWS (link at top right) to sign up for it.

Seasonal Catalogue - now live - click the cover image at right to view online, or shop online at my DBWS .  There are some super products available, as well as selected products from last year's Seasonal Catalogue - you can download the carryover flyer here .

Single Stamps - There is a new assortment available with a Christmas theme!  Some amazing cards and decorations have been made with my personal favourite, the large single star stamp - just google to get inspiration galore.  Download the flyer here.

Best of 25 Years Stamps - October is the actual anniversary month, and there are lots more goodies to share.  So, fittingly, this month's selection of Best of Stamps has a Birthday theme.  I like it for just the exclusive new stamp alone! Click here or on the image to download

That should keep you busy for a bit, back later with more (if the pager doesn't go off!)

A special MDS card

Our neighbours lost their lovely old doggy Stella recently, quite suddenly.  She'd emigrated all the way from the UK with them, and had been around for the whole of the kid's lives as a beloved family pet.  Stella was a sweet Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and loved having short walks and cuddles with her family, and was always so friendly when we visited so it was a big loss.  I made this card to give them to show that we cared, using the MDS program.  The Storybook embellishment doggie was quite similar to Stella (well, the nose wasn't quite right) and I used the alphabet embellishment to make the sentiments.  The card front panel was printed, and then it was mounted onto some base layers in co-ordinating colours.

Mosaic Madness Birthday

Here is a card I made for a special orange-loving friend using the new "Mosaic Madness" stamp set, matching folder and punch.  I had made a few different colour and pattern combos, and was playing around with the layout when I discovered I could make a heart shape.  Some of the tiles are popped up with Stampin' Dimensionals, and the littlest stamps are placed directly onto the Whisper White of the embossed background.  The greeting is from Itty Bitty Banners, and the colours are Daffodil Delight, Tangerine Tango, Pumpkin Pie and Calypso Coral.    The versatility of this set is incredible, I can't wait to have more of a play!

Stampin' Crop Day - This Saturday 14th August

Want to come and have a play with a wide selection of new goodies?  Enjoy some like-minded crafty company?  If that sounds like fun to you, give me a call 0403 175 790 or email me to book your spot.

The cost for the day is $15, and this includes use of my stamps, punches, tools and more, informal tuition, bottomless tea and coffee, and a snack-style lunch.  Places are limited, so RSVP's are very helpful for my planning.  The dates are set as the 4th Saturday of the month unless otherwise advised.

Time:  Saturday 24th August 10am  - 5pm - come and go as you need
Place:  Cherrybrook, North West Sydney (details provided on booking)
Bring:  Any projects you have on the go - cards, scrapping, off the page, basic tools if you have them, adhesives (also available for purchase on the day).

And the winner is... (at long last)

June Online Ordering Competition - Gosh, I've been tardy with this one!  I have been getting far more casual teaching work than I anticipated, and it has become a case of 'make hay while the sun shines' - Term 4 is usually quieter so perhaps I can catch up then.  I am also busy busy with my training as a member of the Rural Fire Service!  I decided that by joining, I could build my skills and as a bonus get to spend more weekend time with my husband Andrew, who has been a member for some years.  But, this initial training phase is a little hectic!!!

In any case, I had slips of paper named and cut for some weeks before hooking my trusty assistant above into conducting the draw for me.  Drumroll......  The lucky winnner is Alison M of South West Sydney, and when I finish gathering the bundle I'll post a pic of her prize.

 Back to Year 11 Art - where strangely I have been able to help students with their projects thanks to the talented bunch of ladies I can call friends - Louise Nelson, Kate Mason and Nat May (mixed media on paper stuff with gesso and texture paste questions)  So, if you all get inundated with enthusiastic high school students on your blogs, you can blame me  (nah, never gunna happen :-p)

SOME DAYS LATER.......

Anyway, the bell rang, I had a lunchtime playground duty, and this post never made it past a draft that day.  The upside is that I now have a pic of the prize bundle, which should have reached the winner today :-)

Single Stamps, Best of Sets, and Individual Markers for a limited time!

I've fallen a bit behind again with posting updates on all the new things that are happening with Stampin' Up!, so here is a bunch of flyers with all the goss.

You can click on each image to go to my Mediafire PDF library to view or print the complete flyers.

 

 In celebration of 25years of Stampin' Up! a special series of stamps has been created.  One set is to be released each month, between now and April 2014.  The sets are a collection of themed stamps, with favourite images from stamp sets past, along with a never before seen stamp in each set.  The sets are available in red rubber cling mount, and are $25.95 each.  Some stamps may be sized differently to those included in their original sets, giving you more versatility if you already own an image.
The two sets released so far are the June "Best of Flowers" set, and the July "Best of Butterflies" set.  Just call me to order, or have a browse and shop online via the "Shop Now" button.

Following the success of a range of individual cling mount rubber stamps in the US, we now have them here!  Above is the first selection, I found it hard to choose which ones I wanted!  Prices are listed on the flyer sheet, and the stamps are supplied in individual cello bags for compact storage.  Or, collect them in our Clear Mount cases, sold in the catalogue, $9.95 for a pack of 4, item code 119105.

Love markers?  Have them all?  Just need the few new colours to complete your collection?  For a LIMITED time, you have the option of purchasing individual markers.   Click on the flyer above to see the codes.  Don't forget that Soft Sky, a returning In Color was never previously available as a marker.  Don't miss the opportunity to pick and choose, the new colour kit including all 10 colours is available until 31st May 2014, for $49.95

That should keep you busy, give me a yell if you have any questions :-)

Where has all the Christmas gone?

If you have been browsing the new 2013-14 Annual Catalogue, you might have noticed a distinct absence of all things Christmas-themed.  Never fear!  There are a range of stamps still available to order from the Autumn-Winter Catalogue (with the amazing ornament on the cover).  If you click on the image above, you will be taken to my Mediafire PDF page, just click the 'view' button, or choose 'download' to save to your computer for printing etc.  These will tide you over until we get our new Holiday Catalogue, which starts on August 29th, right in time for cranking up Christmas card production!

 There are two reasons for this move - firstly to make room in our main catalogue for a greater range of stamps and accessories for year round use, and secondly, to offer a wider selection of seasonal and holiday themed items in a separate catalogue.

There's more Halloween goodies inside, as we now have exactly the same selection as the USA.  Love it, or hate it, Halloween is growing in popularity here in Australia.  And, if you would rather make some cute treats hand-stamped with love rather than contribute to plastic commercialism and mass sugar overload, well now you can!  Hate it passionately?  No problem - many of the products make great masculine cards and gifts with a bit of a twist, which is always a good thing.

There's also a range of Thanksgiving-themed items.  I do wish that this tradition of being grateful for what we have, and gathering with friends and family to enjoy each others company WOULD take off in Australia!  It's a unifying occasion, something our multicultural society would benefit from.  We're also an agricultural nation, and would give us all an occasion to recognise the efforts of Australian farmers in providing us with such a bounty.  We're a lucky country, and a dedicated day to express our gratitude ahead of the avalanche of consumerism that Christmas has become would be welcome, in my opinion.  I also like the idea that Thanksgiving gifts, to friends, neighbours, volunteers etc are traditionally home-made, crafts of all kinds and baking.  I think we could all benefit from more of this!  Perhaps you'll join me, starting this year, in expressing our gratitude to those that fill our lives with happiness of all kinds.  Tell me what you think - I welcome your comments and observations below.

Thanksgiving is the great American unifier of holidays because unlike Christmas or Easter, it is something everyone can appreciate and participate in, precisely because it is not faith-based. It is also a holiday that has its roots in the acceptance of those with different religious views, as the settlers used the help of the non-Christian Native Americans in learning to work and harvest the land in this new country.  - See more at: http://secular.org/blogs/Lauren%20Youngblood?page=2#sthash.J2rOV9u5.dpuf

Thanksgiving is the great American unifier of holidays because unlike Christmas or Easter, it is something everyone can appreciate and participate in, precisely because it is not faith-based. It is also a holiday that has its roots in the acceptance of those with different religious views, as the settlers used the help of the non-Christian Native Americans in learning to work and harvest the land in this new country.  - See more at: http://secular.org/blogs/Lauren%20Youngblood?page=2#sthash.J2rOV9u5.dpuf

Here it is - Sparkly new 2013-14 Annual Catalogue, time to Grab Your Greetings at 25% off and more!

There are lots of fresh, fun products tucked inside, along with your favourite must-have essentials.
Just click on the image above to go direct to my online store, where you can browse, search, sort and shop 24/7.  You can add a hard copy of the catalogue to your order for just $7.  The catalogue is a great new layout style this year, with mini tutorials and project ideas sprinkled throughout to inspire you.

There are also some great offers running at present, such as the "Grab your Greetings" promotion.  Selected greeting sets are 25% off from now until 31st July. 

How excitement!! New catalogue available tomorrow midday!

It's very nearly time to say Hello!!
The new 2013-2014 Annual Catalogue goes live from 12 noon tomorrow, 2nd July.

These gorgeous card samples were from Convention held in May this year, and were a bit of a sneak peek of some of the yumminess on offer.  Yay hexagons, YAY Bermuda Bay, and YAY YAY Coredinations cardstock in Stampin' Up! colours!

You can shop online via the Shop Now button at top right, and if you'd like a hard copy of the catalogue to browse at your leisure, you can add one to any online order for just $7.00 (+ applicable postage/handling).  The catalogue order code is 133261 - happy browsing!

MDS Monday Challenge #1

The lovely and talented Nicole Derendorf has been using My Digital Studio for several years as a past Canadian demo, and has arranged a weekly MDS challenge to help everyone get familiar and have fun with the new program here.  This is the first week, and the sketch provided is this one:

And, here's my take:

Feel free to join in and email me with your version!

I scrapped! My Digital Studio page

I used to do quite a bit of scrapping, and have a nice fat album for each of my kids and a general family one.  But, there are SO many photos that I never got around to!  I do want to have a play with the new style "This n That" journals (Stampin' Up!'s great take on the Smashbook trend for 'quick and dirty' memory keeping), but in the meantime there's nothing like being able to whip up a page as I supervise a Senior Art class.  They were busy working on their creative projects and requiring less than zero input from me after roll marking and a bit of wandering around to see what each of them were making.  Must have been the creativity oozing from the walls, because I finished this page.  I do realise I have neglected to date it, but the beauty of MDS is I can easily pop back in and add one!  I've built this page from scratch using a variety of elements, but there are pre-made customisable templates for almost instant scrapping too.  I've used Howlstooth and Scaringbone papers, Digital Washi tape, textured cardstock, punches, stamps, drop shadows, splatters, stitching and have played with opacity and rotation.  What do you think?

On August 10th at a CBD hotel, Stampin' Up! are running a "My Digital Studio Tour" event where you can learn to use this easy yet powerful software to create cards, scrap pages, photobooks and lots more.  The cost is just $35, and  includes a full version of the software with your registration (valued at $24.95).  If you're interested, please give me a call or message me to find out more.

ALSO - tomorrow and Monday are the FINAL TWO DAYS to order from the current catalogue and the retirement lists - best way to check out what is available is via the SHOP NOW button at the top right side - create an account and use this code when prompted:  69SHUUN7  to enter my draw after 30th June for a prize bundle!

Fun stuff not far away!

2013 was the Best. Convention. Yet!  I think I say that each year but truly, Stampin' Up! spoiled us rotten in celebration of their 25th year as a company with heart.  So many giveaways, so much inspiration, so much excitement over what is ahead!

There's still 2 weeks left to make sure you've ordered all those goodies that are leaving us - the best way to see what is available on the Retirement Lists is via the Shop Now button at the top right of my blog sidebar.  Create an account in a few simple steps and you're off and shopping for bargains!  In case you've left it to the last minute, there's about 1 hour left on the Digital Sale! - ends tonight at 11.50pm.  By signing up for an account and placing an order, either directly with me or via my online store, you'll also be helping us reach our Convention Challenge of introducing as many new people to our great product range as possible!  If we reach it, there's even more free goodies for us!  And I have some free goodies to give away too!

So, grab a pen and jot down this code for your order, and create an account to shop today - 69SHUUN7 - just enter these details when prompted for the Hostess Code - you'll also be entering my draw for a prize bundle to be drawn June 30th.

 Above I have put some pics of a sneak peek, just one of the inspiring cards made on stage at Convention, this one by the uber talented Shannon West.  We all know Washi tape is just awesome stuff to create with, and you can never own too much, but imagine being able to STAMP it!  In whatever colour combo took your fancy!  This card does just that, and I can't wait to get my hands on this set. 
 

Dates for your diary

Lots of dates to keep in mind - my calendar is bristling with all sorts!

* My Digital Studio Digital Sale - Selected digital content (mostly kits of papers, stamp brush sets, embellishments and more) is on sale 25% off until June 15th  - this coming Saturday.  No postage required, just buy online and download instantly!
Don't forget to click on the image to see more views of what is included with each pack, and read through the content list - the main thumbnail doesn't do justice to some of the kits available.
My picks:

 Tea for Two Easel Calendar Template - not just for calendars!  Heaps of goodies inside!

Storytime Ensemble - 74 piece stamp brush set is just the beginning!

Stampin' Crop Day - DATE CHANGE! 
I've put this in my recent newsletter, but realised I'd forgotten to alter the blog calendar date.  Due to my Rural Fire Service commitments, I have moved the upcoming crop day from this Saturday 15th June to the following week, Saturday 22nd June.  I know this suited quite a few of my regulars, so if it works out I will move the date permanently(ish) to the fourth Saturday of the month. 

Sent with Love Limited Edition Stamp Set and DSP pack

 

Only available until June 15th, grab the bundle for extra value at 20% off!.

Don't forget the Retirement List  too!  I'm sure there's more, including my upcoming New Catalogue Launch, so I'll be back soon with more entries for your calendar!

Something for Everyone - Retirement Lists are out!

It's time to check your wishlists and post-it tagged catalogue against the Retirement Lists for Stamps and Accessories.  Products are only available while stocks last, and for this reason we're doing something a little differently this year.  Rather than disappoint you by providing a printable list of items that will quickly be out of date as products sell out, you can view retiring products online and add them to your cart on the spot.  Clicking the "Something for Everyone" image above will take you directly to the Retirement Lists on my online store site. 

Since this is a new process, I thought it might be good to put in a few screenshots to guide you through the process:

 The default setting is only 8 items per page.  For quick browsing, you can change this to 'ALL' if you wish.  You can also sort alphabetically and by price.

 Each product has a name and price with the image, and clicking on a product of interest takes you to a picture that looks like the one below:

 Full details on the product are here, with the price (the discounted price is shown where applicable).  You can select the number in the QTY box, then "Add to Bag"  Your shopping total is shown at the top of the screen, right hand side in the grey bar area.

After you have added a product, go back to the list to browse some more by clicking on the Continue Shopping link, top right.   **Additionally, before you check out, please enter the code MSMBGY23 in the hostess code box**

So - no need to wait to get in touch with me, order what you like as you find it, to ensure the best chance of getting things before they sell out.

Questions??  Give me a call and I'll be able to help you out!

Onto highlights of the List - selected items are discounted, up to 50%.  To make it easier for those who like to maximise the value of their craft dollars (eg me!), I have created a table, shown below.
Discounted Stamps:

Accessories:

Have fun, there are lots of goodies both in these lists and on the online store complete collection (access via the top "something for everyone" image).  Of particular note (and some are not in the discounted lists above) are:
Glossy Cardstock - great for brayering, crayon resist, emboss resist

Shimmer Paint - A little goes a long way, and it works fantastically well with Isocol as a misting spray.

12x12 and 8x8 Linen Ring Albums and refills- get extras for your collection before they are gone :-(

Craft and Rubber Scissors - these are so tough and useful they belong in everyone's craft stash.

Color Spritzer Tool - just the ticket for trendy splots and splatters with your markers

All the fabric - have you got enough for your project on the go?  Stock up while you can.

Jewellery tag punch - just :-(

There's more, but the best idea is to pop onto the store and see for yourself.

Extra goodies for Hostesses, Extra goodies for new demonstrators!

There are 2 more weeks on the great promo running right now, so it's a great time to be a Hostess!  Until 30th May, when party sales reach a very achievable $400 you get an extra $60 to spend on whatever catalogue products you fancy - that's TWICE as much free fun!  Being a Hostess is easy-as - there is even an online system for sending invites and accepting RSVP's  - and all you need is a few friends, a dining table and a cuppa.  I come to you with everything we need to make a hand-stamped card or two.  Take a look at the "Host a party" tab at the top of the blog for lots more info, and call me to book a date!

Or, if you have a hefty wishlist (don't we all!), why not consider joining my StampInkPaper team by becoming a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator!   There are extra goodies for you too - pay just $169 for the Starter Kit, and choose $295 worth of catalogue products  - that's an extra $60, so it is great value.  There is no requirement to host workshops or parties unless you want to, although the kit comes with catalogues and other business supplies on top of your $295 in product, so you have a business in a box for just $169  - TOTAL no brainer!  There is lots more detail in the "Become a Demonstrator" tab, or give me a call to chat

Mother's Day Inspiration - StampInkPaper Team Bloghop!

Welcome to our StampInkPaper Team Mother's Day Blog Hop. A blog hop is where you 'hop' from blog to blog linked by the same theme, you may have arrived here from Vanessa's blog, or just happened upon the tour by chance. Our theme is of course Mother's Day. Each of our team members has made a card using Stampin'Up! products.

Here are the projects I made, using our fabulous new My Digital Studio software (click the link to try a free 30 Day trial!).  I have had an earlier version of this software for a few years now, and I love it!  I get that some people really enjoy the physical cutting and sticking with traditional papercrafts, so today I am showing you two Hybrid versions of the card below,  turned into real paper creations.  The best bit is being able to multitask and create while catching a DVD, and all without making the mess of my craft room that I am famous for!  You can design online and build from scratch using your design, or print the front panel to mount and embellish as I have done here.  I used a standard inkjet printer, and printed onto Very Vanilla cardstock.  I also test printed on (retired) Confetti White, and that looked great as well!
 

Here's the digital only version, converted into a common jpeg image, so it could be emailed around the world if you wished.  I have used drop shadows and lots of layers to give it a dimensional effect.

The elements used are:

Taffeta trimmings (Very Vanilla ribbon) - included in MDS full version

Delightful Dozen (sentiment) - included in MDS full version

Tea for two designer easel calendar kit (130664, just $14.63 until June 15th)

Soft Blooms paper embellishment (130080, $4.50)

Daydream Medallions Stamp Brush set (130854, $4.50) 

   

 

 In this real-life version, I mounted the printed panel onto So Saffron cardstock, and an Old Olive base.  I added a snip of seam binding from the Artisan Embellishments kit and some Basics Pearls to the faux paper flowers.  A bit of ink to the edges and some adhesive - all done!

 I just changed the colour scheme for this one, making it an Old Olive layer and a Primrose Petals card base, and switched the seam binding for a piece of the cotton lace, again from the Artisan Embellishment Kit.

I hope you enjoy seeing what can be easily created with this powerful software, stay tuned for my upcoming Introduction to Digital Designing class.  Want to download some simple instructions for installing the software?  Click here for my step by step screen shot PDF

When you have finished here on my blog (comment love very much appreciated!), you can continue the hop through the link at the end of this post to the next team member's creations.

Lost? Here's a list of links to all the participants so you can find your way again.

Vanessa Cook - www.stampness.blogspot.com

Michelle Dyson - www.stampinkpaper.blogspot.com

Clare McIlhatton - http://craftycowcreations.blogspot.com.au/

Anne Farrar - http://stampinannies.blogspot.com.au/

Carolyn Campbell-McLean - http://carolyncampbell-mclean.blogspot.com.au/

Marilyn Scholtz - http://www.marilynscholz.typepad.com/justcallmemars

Karen Fowler - http://karenfowler61.blogspot.com.au/

You'll find lots of great ideas as you hop through the chain of seven different team members’ fantastic blogs. Why not add my blog to your "follow" list, or subscribe to my newsletter for info about my upcoming events.

Want to win some Free Stuff? Simply leave a comment on each blog in the hop and then email Vanessa and let her know you’ve done so and you’ll be in the running for a fantastic prize of handmade cards plus other goodies from each of the participants. Sorry, prizes not available to current demonstrators, but you are most welcome to leave a comment!

Next up on the hop is Clare McIlhatton, AKA Crafty Cow, the world famous Punch Art Queen!

Enjoy the rest of the tour!

Tutorial Time - Downloading My Digital Studio software for Technophobes!

In the process of helping some of my team members get their MDS software up and running, I created a step-by-step tutorial with screen shots to guide even the most computer-phobic crafter into happy success with My Digital Studio.  It is a PDF file, and by clicking this link you can save the file to your computer and print it for guidance.

Why bother?  It's so much fun, and once downloaded, very easy to jump in and play.  Imagine being able to sit and watch a DVD and catch up on much-neglected scrapbooking?  With just a laptop to pack away?  To be able to make your own custom photobooks, cards and more? 

Here's a taster of things I have made recently, and also an ad for our upcoming Mother's Day Blog Hop!