Ornate Garden - Stampers Showcase Blog Hop

Hello and welcome to another Stampers Showcase Blog Hop.  This month our theme is 'Summertime, Summertime'.

If you are starting here with me or have just hopped over from Marita Dreissen in Germany, welcome - thanks for hopping along with us!

Summertime for me means lots of pretty flowers and long, hot and hazy days (hopefully).  I decided to use the large image from the Ornate Style stamp that has lots of pretty flowers that are just perfect for lots of different colouring techniques.

Because the image is so large I used my Stamparatus which was easier to find in my craft room at the moment than a large block.

Here are the colours I used for my project - I took them from the DSP that is also part of the Ornate Garden Suite.  (I used Daffodil Delight because I don't have Bumble Bee yet).

Daffodil Delight

Early Espresso

Mint Macaron

Old Olive

Terracotta Tile

Here is my project.

You will need:
21 cm x 14.5 cm Mint Macaron - scored at 10.5 cm
10 cm x 14.5 cm ww thick
10 cm x 14 cm ww (insert)
Small pieces of Old Olive and thick ww for die cutting

To create the decorative panel:
I used the thick ww panel and one of the Ornate Border dies to create decorative edges on both sides of the panel.

Top Tip
I find it much easier to use grid paper when trying to line long dies up - it helps to make sure they are not wonky!  I also use a small pieces of low tack tape to hold the die in place as there is nothing worse than a die that slips is there?

Die cut a border on both long edges.  The nice thing about this particular die is that you can save the leftover pieces for another project as they have pretty scallopped edges!

The heat embossing:
I used an Embossing Buddy on the ww panel and then stamped the flowers with Versamark ink, added some white embossing powder and heat set.  I love heat embossing - it's like alchemy!

The watercolouring:
I used an Aqua Painter with ink from the lids of the colours shown above.  I didn't have time for any fancy watercolour techniques - I just dabbed the ink around.  The embossed lines around the image help a lot too as they resist the ink so you can still see the details.

The sentiment:
I used a small piece of Old Olive card to die cut this lovely background.  I ran the die through my Big Shot a couple of times to make sure I did not miss any of the detail.

I was delighted to discover that one of my favourite dies from the Stitched Rectangles was the perfect size for the ornate frame.  I stamped the sentiment with Terracotta Tile and Early Espresso ink.

To assemble:
The painted panel has been adhered to the Mint Macaron base with lots of dimensionals.  I also used dimensionals for both the sentiment pieces.

I also added a ww insert to the card so that I can write a message - I have someone in mind to send this card to.

I used Mint Macaron ink to stamp a partial image on the insert and the envelope.

Finishing Touches
I added a little bow to the corner of the sentiment adhered with a mini glue dot.  I also added a trio of Gilded Gems - I'm using these a lot at the moment.

Here is the completed card and envelope.  

I am a little cross with myself that I did not think to make sure I lined the border die up to ensure there was no half holes at the top/bottom of the panel.  I did manage to do this on the bottom of the panel but confess, it was a total fluke!  I will make sure to check for that next time I use these dies!

Next up is Stephanie Nash from Canada who has another Summertime themed project to inspire you.

Thanks for hopping along with us!

Stay safe and well.

Susan xx

If you have any questions, or need help with anything I’m always happy to help.  You can email me susan_merrey@yahoo.co.uk or telephone 07905 403 823 during normal working hours.

Thank you so much for looking at my Blog today, if you don't have a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator and you live in the UK, I would love to be yours!  

If you need to order any supplies, simply use my “shop with me” button or click on the catalogue links on the right. Alternatively, contact me and I would be happy to place an order for you.

If you would like copies of either of the current catalogues let me know and I will pop them in the post for you.  If you prefer, you can view online versions by clicking the links to the right of this post.  The new Annual Catalogue will be available towards the end of May.  If you would like me to send you a copy please let me know.

Would you like to receive a FREE gift from me? 

All orders placed directly with me or online receive a handmade card from me as a thank you but did you know that all orders over £20 (excluding postage) will receive a gift from me too?  If you use the current Hostess Code I will pop something in with your order or post directly to you.  (Please remember to allow me to access your contact details otherwise I won't be able to contact you).

If your order is over £150 please don't use the code as you will receive your own Stampin' Rewards.  You will still receive a card and a gift from me.

If you are local to me and can collect, I’m happy for you to piggyback one of my orders to save on postage.

Thank you for shopping with me and supporting my business.

Say Hello to the 2020 - 2022 In-Colours!

Hello, it's almost time for the new Annual Catalogue launch which means I have new In-Colours to share with you!

You may have seen some sneaky peaks on my facebook page but in case you missed them, here are the new 2020 - 20222 In-Colours.

Bumblebee

Cinnamon Cider

Just Jade

Magenta Madness

Misty Moonlight

I love all the colours this year - usually there is at least one colour that has to grow on me and, at last, there is a colour that is a very good match for my craftyducky!!

Chance to win!
Which colour is your favourite?  Let me know which one and why for a chance to win a little something from me.  You can either comment below or on my facebook page.  I will ask an impartial person to choose the winner so everyone will have a chance.  Winner will be announced on my facebook page on the 3rd June.

In-Colour 2020

I have not one but two options for you this year!

Option1 - I want them now!
£43.25 (p+p extra if unable to collect)
Includes:

•  5 x Classic Stampin' Pads in the 2020 - 2022 In-Colours  £7 each
• A4 Cardstock Assortment in the 2020 - 2022 In-Colours (20 sheets, 4 of each) £8.25
• Rhinestone Basic Jewels - free gift from me worth £4.75!

Option 2  In-Colour Club (5 months commitment)

£32.10 (p+p extra if unable to collect)

Colours will be randomly selected so, by the end of the 5 months you will have the whole collection.

• Classic Stampin' Pad £7
• 4 sheets A4 Cardstock £1.65
• Stampin' Write Marker £2.75
• 18 Faceted Dots £2.50
• Stampin' Blends Combo Pack £8.50*
• 2 Memories & More card and envelopes £2.05
• 6 6" x 6" sheets Designer Series Paper £2.15
• In-Colour Twill Ribbon (9.1m) £5.50

* There are no Stampin' Blends in Bumble Bee so I will send you The Flowers For Every Season Memories & More Cards (£10.25) that feature all five new In-Colours at no extra cost.

Bonus

As a bonus from me at the end of the 5 months you will receive The Summer Days (Just For Hosts) stamp set valued at £20 as a thank you gift from me.

You can see below I had a bit of a play with the new colours using some of the items I have been able to pre-order.

If you are interested in either option please let me know asap.  I will place orders as soon as possible once the new catalogue is live on the 3rd June.  You will need to pay for either option no later than the 2nd June.  Payment will then be required at the start of each month for Option 2 so that I can place the orders.  

I will let you know as soon as your goodies arrive; I can either arrange safe collection if you are local to me or post to you at cost.  Please note that orders are taking slightly longer than usual due to the current situation.

Copies of the new catalogue will be available next week!  I am just prepping some goodies to go with them.  If you haven't let me know you would like a copy yet be quick!

Happy crafting, stay safe and well.

Susan xx

If you have any questions, or need help with anything I’m always happy to help.  You can email me susan_merrey@yahoo.co.uk or telephone 07905 403 823 during normal working hours.

Thank you so much for looking at my Blog today, if you don't have a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator and you live in the UK, I would love to be yours!  

If you need to order any supplies, simply use my “shop with me” button or click on the catalogue links on the right. Alternatively, contact me and I would be happy to place an order for you.

If you would like copies of either of the current catalogues let me know and I will pop them in the post for you.  If you prefer, you can view online versions by clicking the links to the right of this post.  The new Annual Catalogue will be available towards the end of May.  If you would like me to send you a copy please let me know.

Would you like to receive a FREE gift from me? 

All orders placed directly with me or online receive a handmade card from me as a thank you but did you know that all orders over £20 (excluding postage) will receive a gift from me too?  If you use the current Hostess Code I will pop something in with your order or post directly to you.  (Please remember to allow me to access your contact details otherwise I won't be able to contact you).

If your order is over £150 please don't use the code as you will receive your own Stampin' Rewards.  You will still receive a card and a gift from me.

If you are local to me and can collect, I’m happy for you to piggyback one of my orders to save on postage.

Thank you for shopping with me and supporting my business.

Very Versailles - stepped up

Here are the details for our second project this week using a stamp set called Very Versailles.

Although this project has a couple of shabby chic elements you could also make an unscuffed version too.

Here is my project.

You will need:
10.5 cm x 29cm ww thick - scored at 14.5 cm
10 cm x 14 cm Petal Pink
Small pieces of Calypso Coral, Pear Pizzazz and Petal Pink for the flower
Small piece of ww thick for die cutting and a 1.5 cm strip for the sentiment.

The background:
I used Petal Pink ink to stamp a couple of branches in the top right hand corner of the Petal Pink panel.  I scuffed the edges but I know some of you don't like to do this!

I like the tone on tone effect using the same ink and card colours.

Faux suede technique:
Die cut the pieces for the flower and the two leaves.  Give the pieces a good spritz with clean water and scrunch them up.  Unfold carefully whilst still damp and then separate the layers of the cardstock.  If you are very careful you will end up with two pieces that you can use.  I usually end up with just the one but that is ok too!

Separating the layers softens the card and creates a faux suede look - sort of like hand made paper if you know what I mean?

I adhered the outline to the base of the flower with a dab of Tombow in the centre.

Stamped panel:
Use thick ww card to cut out a Stitched Shape circle.  I used Calypso Coral ink to stamp this lovely script background.

I use this script image a lot - its a great way to add extra detail and is also useful for creating backgrounds.

The sentiment:
I stamped the sentiment onto the strip of card with Calypso Coral ink.  I used double sided tape on the reverse to adhere a piece of this pretty ribbon.

To assemble:
Adhere the circle with dimensionals.  I used dimensionals on each end of the sentiment and a dab of Tombow in the centre to adhere the sentiment across the stamped circle.

I used Tombox to adhere the leaves and a single dimensional to adhere the flower.

The details:
I stamped on the inside of the card and the envelope with Petal Pink ink.

Finishing touches:
I added a trio of pearls to draw the eye into the card and focus on the panel.

Here is the completed card and envelope.

I hope you have enjoyed my projects this week using Vety Versaille.  The faux sued technique can also be tried on larger pieces of card and can be used to create backgrounds that are very effective.  You can also stamp images with Stazon onto the card before sprtizing and separating for a different look.  

I will be back next week showcasing another stamp set - not decided which at the moment.  There is a possibility I will use Ornate Garden as suggested by my crafty friend Sue.

Happy crafting!
Stay safe and well.

Susan xx

If you have any questions, or need help with anything I’m always happy to help.  You can email me susan_merrey@yahoo.co.uk or telephone 07905 403 823 during normal working hours.

Thank you so much for looking at my Blog today, if you don't have a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator and you live in the UK, I would love to be yours!  

If you need to order any supplies, simply use my “shop with me” button or click on the catalogue links on the right. Alternatively, contact me and I would be happy to place an order for you.

If you would like copies of either of the current catalogues let me know and I will pop them in the post for you.  If you prefer, you can view online versions by clicking the links to the right of this post.  The new Annual Catalogue will be available towards the end of May.  If you would like me to send you a copy please let me know.

Would you like to receive a FREE gift from me? 

All orders placed directly with me or online receive a handmade card from me as a thank you but did you know that all orders over £20 (excluding postage) will receive a gift from me too?  If you use the current Hostess Code I will pop something in with your order or post directly to you.  (Please remember to allow me to access your contact details otherwise I won't be able to contact you).

If your order is over £150 please don't use the code as you will receive your own Stampin' Rewards.  You will still receive a card and a gift from me.

If you are local to me and can collect, I’m happy for you to piggyback one of my orders to save on postage.

Thank you for shopping with me and supporting my business.

Very Versailles - quick & simple

Hello, here are the details for the first project this week using a stamp set called Very Versailles.

Here is my project - a very useful little box!  These dinky little boxes are very quick to make and you can fit all sorts of little treats in them (including the craftyducky!)

You will need:
15 x 15 cm Petal Pink
10.2 cm x 10.2 cm Petal Pink
Scraps of Petal Pink, Calypso Coral and Pear Pizzazz for die cutting

To make the box base: 
I stamped branches and leaves all over the piece of 15cm card using Petal Pink ink.

Score each side of the card at 2" - my scoreboard only has inches, hence the mix in measurements!

I cut into each corner and trimmed a tiny sliver from each side of the resulting flaps.

I like to assemble box flaps with Tombow - the wriggle room can be very useful!

To make the box lid:
Score the smaller piece of Petal Pink card at 1" on each side.  Cut and notch and assemble as above.

The create the flower:
I used the Poppy Moments Dies to cut out the flower pieces and two leaves.  To create a shabby chic look to the pieces I spritzed with clean water and scrunched them up.  Unfold carefully and leave to dry.

To assemble:
I adhered the leaves with Tombow and a single dimensional in the centre of the  flower.

Finishing touch:
I used some of the lovely organdy striped ribbon, adhering around the lid with mini glue dots.  I also tied a bow and also adhered with a mini glue dot.  I have used this pretty ribbon a lot so I was pleased to discover that it will still be with us when the new Annual Catalogue launches at the beginning of June.

Here is the completed box, shown from above this time.

I also made another box using card for the base and DSP for the lid this time.

I will be back later this week with a card to compliment this lovely little gift box showing a technique that takes the flower to another level using a faux suede technique!

Stay safe and well, happy crafting!
Susan xx

If you have any questions, or need help with anything I’m always happy to help.  You can email me susan_merrey@yahoo.co.uk or telephone 07905 403 823 during normal working hours.

Thank you so much for looking at my Blog today, if you don't have a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator and you live in the UK, I would love to be yours!  

If you need to order any supplies, simply use my “shop with me” button or click on the catalogue links on the right. Alternatively, contact me and I would be happy to place an order for you.

If you would like copies of either of the current catalogues let me know and I will pop them in the post for you.  If you prefer, you can view online versions by clicking the links to the right of this post.  The new Annual Catalogue will be available towards the end of May.  If you would like me to send you a copy please let me know.

Would you like to receive a FREE gift from me? 

All orders placed directly with me or online receive a handmade card from me as a thank you but did you know that all orders over £20 (excluding postage) will receive a gift from me too?  If you use the current Hostess Code I will pop something in with your order or post directly to you.  (Please remember to allow me to access your contact details otherwise I won't be able to contact you).

If your order is over £150 please don't use the code as you will receive your own Stampin' Rewards.  You will still receive a card and a gift from me.

If you are local to me and can collect, I’m happy for you to piggyback one of my orders to save on postage.

Thank you for shopping with me and supporting my business.

Very Versailles - product spotlight!

Hello, if you follow my blog at all or craft in person with me you will know that I am indecisive - in fact, very indecisive!  This week I found it very difficult to make a decision as to which stamp set to showcase.  I had it narrowed down to two stamp sets; Very Versailles or Ornate Style.  After asking my crafty friends to help I am using Very Versailles.

I am a fan of vintage and shabby chic style projects - I do love to scuff my edges so this rococco style stamp set is right up my street.

I don't think I have used this stamp set since last July but I am pleased to say Very Versailles will still be with us in the upcoming Annual Catalogue.

For my projects this week I will be using the following colour combo.

Calypso Coral

Pear Pizzazz

Petal Pink

I will be sharing a faux suede technique that I used for both projects; its a fun technique that is quick and simple.  I will be making a card and a pretty little gift box this week.

Here is a sneaky peak - the more observant amongst may also spot that I am using the Poppied Moments Dies too!

I will share detail of both projects next week.  You can also see other projects I made with this lovely stamp set HERE using Pretty Peacock .  I have lots of idea on my Pinterest board too; one of them is a Christmas card!

For Sue who asked me to use the Ornate Style step set, I will put it on my list for you soon but you might have to give me a nudge!

My pre order of items from the upcoming Annual Catalogue should be here next week.  Orders are taking a little longer than usual.  For those of you who have placed orders, I will let you know as soon as your goodies arrive!  I am planning a team Zoom meeting so I can show you my goodies.  Hopefully I will have chance to play with them.

Happy crafting, stay safe and well.

Susan xx

If you have any questions, or need help with anything I’m always happy to help.  You can email me susan_merrey@yahoo.co.uk or telephone 07905 403 823 during normal working hours.

Thank you so much for looking at my Blog today, if you don't have a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator and you live in the UK, I would love to be yours!  

If you need to order any supplies, simply use my “shop with me” button or click on the catalogue links on the right. Alternatively, contact me and I would be happy to place an order for you.

If you would like copies of either of the current catalogues let me know and I will pop them in the post for you.  If you prefer, you can view online versions by clicking the links to the right of this post.  The Spring/Summer catalogue is available now - please message me if you would like a copy.   

Would you like to receive a FREE gift from me? 

All orders placed directly with me or online receive a handmade card from me as a thank you but did you know that all orders over £20 (excluding postage) will receive a gift from me too?  If you use the current Hostess Code I will pop something in with your order or post directly to you.  (Please remember to allow me to access your contact details otherwise I won't be able to contact you).

If your order is over £150 please don't use the code as you will receive your own Stampin' Rewards.  You will still receive a card and a gift from me.

If you are local to me and can collect, I’m happy for you to piggyback one of my orders to save on postage.

Thank you for shopping with me and supporting my business.

Seaside Notions - stepped up

Here are the details for the second project this week using a stamp set called Seaside Notions.  This project did not turn out at all how I thought it would, I changed my mind and direction several times between Zoom meetings yesterday!

Here are the colours I used for my project - same as the previous one but I completely forgot to use Soft Suede.

Pretty Peacock

Purple Posy

Seaside Spray

Here is my project.

You will need:
10.5 cm x 29 cm thick ww - scored at 14.5 cm
9 cm x 12 cm Seaside Spray
11 cm x 7.5 cm ww thick
Small piece of Purple Posy and WW thick for stamping

To create the die cut frame:
I used my favourite Stitched Edge Rectangles dies.  Carefully position the two dies and hold in place with low tack tape.

After cutting the white frame I decided I didn't like it so, I cut another using Seaside Spray.

I will still not happy with the frame so I used this background stamp and Seaside Spray ink and stamped all around the frame.

The stamping:
I used the white rectangle I created with the first frame and added some simple stamping along the bottom edge and one side.

I also stamped an assortment of images on ww and Purple Posy card and fussy cut out.

To assemble:
I used foam adhesive strips to adhere the frame to the card front positioning so that there was an even border at the top and both sides.

I used an assortment of dimensionals and Tombow to adhere all the pieces filling in the space at the bottom of the card.

The sentiment:
I completely forgot to add one on the front of the card so I stamped one on the inside.  However, Felix (cat) jumped onto my desk at the wrong moment resulting in a messy smudge.

I had already stamped along the bottom of the card so I used a spare rectangle and stamped on that and adhered with Tombow.

The detail:
My favourite part of this project is the envelope!  I used Seaside Spray and Pretty Peacock to stamp along the bottom edge.

Finishing touches:
I added lots of sequins for a bit of sparkle, adhering with tiny dabs of Tombow.

Here is the completed card and envelope.

I love the depth and dimension on this project - wouldn't it look lovely in a frame?  I have lots more ideas for using this lovely stamp set, in fact I will be using it later this month for a blog hop I am joining!

I'm pleased to say that the sun is shining again today so I hope to go for a stroll along the river later this afternoon.

Stay safe and well, happy crafting!

Susan xx

If you have any questions, or need help with anything I’m always happy to help.  You can email me susan_merrey@yahoo.co.uk or telephone 07905 403 823 during normal working hours.

Thank you so much for looking at my Blog today, if you don't have a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator and you live in the UK, I would love to be yours!  

If you need to order any supplies, simply use my “shop with me” button or click on the catalogue links on the right. Alternatively, contact me and I would be happy to place an order for you.

If you would like copies of either of the current catalogues let me know and I will pop them in the post for you.  If you prefer, you can view online versions by clicking the links to the right of this post.  The Spring/Summer catalogue is available now - please message me if you would like a copy.   

Would you like to receive a FREE gift from me? 

All orders placed directly with me or online receive a handmade card from me as a thank you but did you know that all orders over £20 (excluding postage) will receive a gift from me too?  If you use the current Hostess Code I will pop something in with your order or post directly to you.  (Please remember to allow me to access your contact details otherwise I won't be able to contact you).

If your order is over £150 please don't use the code as you will receive your own Stampin' Rewards.  You will still receive a card and a gift from me.

If you are local to me and can collect, I’m happy for you to piggyback one of my orders to save on postage.

Thank you for shopping with me and supporting my business.