by Susan Itell | May 20, 2016 | Tips and Tricks!!!, Uncategorized |
Good Morning! Today I wanted to share with you some tips…some thoughts…to make you be ahead of the game when the magical date of June 1st rolls around (I know that we are all super excited and the time will ZOOM by)
I would grab that cup of coffee and read this post and hopefully it will help you…there are LOTS of great goodies in this new catalog…but we do not need EVERYTHING…that would be super silly and also that is why I offer a Product Share so you can get a taste of the huge buffet!
I do hope that this post help you with some thoughts for you to think about when looking at the new catalog! 🙂
- Grab a piece of paper and use it as your wish list. What I like to do is make a column of an “A list” and then a “B list”. I do this for stamps and then also for tools/framelits.
- When you are going through the catalog, take note of the bundles….as you will receive an instant 10% off by purchasing them together (yep, it used to be 15% but now it is 10%) 😥 – Many times I have written down the wrong number and was sad when my order came in and I did not use the “bundle number” so make sure you have the correct numbers and don’t be a Silly Susan!
- By now we all know that June 1st is the magical date and I highly suggest to “BE READY” to avoid any unforeseen back orders etc…we all get so excited and there are going to be some “HOT ITEMS” (I think) so I would not wait. I will do another post on the items that I think are going to be HOT! 🙂
- In the new catalog you will see that Stampin’ Up! grouped together a cardstock pack to coordinate with the Designer Series Paper. This is a brilliant as you will get (8) sheets in 3 different colors to work together with the Designer Series Paper (look on page 142 & 143 of the current catalog to see what I am talking about) This is a great way to have a nice selection of complementary colors for you to USE UP that DSP (you know how passionate I am able this)
- For those of you that are NEW to Stampin’ Up!…I think that the best way to get to know our cardstock is to purchase the individual collections in the assorted packs as you will get (2) sheets of each color for just $8.00 a collection – this way you can really see what paper colors you use more often before making a purchase of a whole pack.
- Speaking of the cardstock….the other thing that I truly feel is the best is to purchase from me the cardstock on a ring – I have everything all labeled for you – click here to see the product share offerings and it is #4 – I literally use it daily as I like to pull out color combinations and it stays tidy as it is on a ring!
- Stamp Pads – I do not think anyone will disagree with this….Stampin’ Up! has AMAZING ink pads that are a firm foam which makes a great stamp each and every time. If you can, I would purchase the ink pads as a collection as you will save money but I totally get that this might not be practical for many. I can remember when I first started I purchased them a la carte and then “caved in” as I would see a sample and did not have that color.
- Ink Refills – I HIGHLY suggest that you purchase a refill when you get an ink pad. They really do come in handy and trust me, there is nothing more frustrating to be in the middle of a project to find out that you need more coverage and you do not have the refill – it is worth its weigh in gold…again, it is more economical to purchase them them as a collection rather than a la carte…but always know, there are options for you to do what works for YOU!
Wow….I think that this has given you a lot to think about. Please feel free to email me if you have further questions or please leave a comment and I am sure that our great “cyber family” will be there to help you get the answer!
I might have “spotty internet” while I am away. I am excited to go and get to meet other Stampin’ Up! people…..John does not know 1 person….and I know 4 people…but hoping to meet a WHOLE BUNCH!
I promise to you that I will be a sponge and take it all in and share with you pictures….stories….and ideas! I must admit…I am a bit nervous about going as I am very happy at home. It has been funny…each one of the “peeps” have been in touch several times yesterday just “checking in” with questions like….you do have your passport….you do need to get converters for you phone and laptop….you do know where you are going one you get to Barcelona etc….
We are blessed to have peeps that I think are concerned about their parents being away like we are about to do! All 3 of them have traveled abroad and are very comfortable etc…they are just looking out for us – so John and I will be leaving Williamsport and we will be like 2 kids going to the circus!
This is the 1st time that John and I have been away together for this long….we have always said that once the peeps were through college, it was time for us – here is to our first venture! I cannot wait to make you feel like you are there with me…..I will keep you in the loop and share…share….share!
I will try to be a giraffe and spread my vision. I truly love what I do! 🙂
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by Susan Itell | May 19, 2016 | Uncategorized |
Here you go – a fun card that will hopefully make you smile! To me, this is a happy card and even thought the sentiment does say – HAPPY DAY…this sneak peak of a newbie in the NEW catalog is a “keeper” – you know me by now…when I say “keeper” it means I really like it! 🙂
I used this stamp set yesterday and you can see that it works today as well…this is why it is a “keeper” – to me the fun and festive fonts make this a must have!
This week we have a color challenge and it is from a very special person, Rae Harper. It is funny….I have not met most of the PALS but I know in my heart that Rae is a “true blue” – Rae is the PALS monthly gu-ru that makes our blog hops go smoothly. When I first started doing blog hops…she was my Knight and Shining Armor! 🙂
This is a very straight forward card – but one that you can duplicate for many cards! I know I personally forget to use a simple 1″ piece of a solid paper on the edge…and WOW – an instant POP! When you look at the stamp set below, you can see the dot stamp and I used the tone on tone to stamp the crushed curry strip!
Remember the buttons are on the bye-bye list and I admit….I “get it” but I will use up what I have. I do like the way that it looks and a simple glue dot does the trick..every time!
This is the second time that I used this bundle…flower shop and if you do not have this set….YOU NEED IT– -it has been around for several years and I am happy….but please know that in the new catalog it will not be a bundle! (that is an instant 15%)
In closing…you need to know that there are many retiring products that are already gone…so please do not wait and be disappointed…I will say that the new catalog is FILLED with FUN…..but there are amazing keepers in the bye-bye list that are keepers! I worked my stampin’ hands off yesterday creating posts for the next 2 weeks…
BUT – I opened up and took photos of the Card Swap = all I can say is that I need “eye creme” – as I was beaming with ALL SMILES….next week you will LOVE them…you are all amazing!
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by Susan Itell | May 18, 2016 | Thank You, Uncategorized |
Good Wednesday to all! First…I must say – I MISSED YOU GUYS and I had a fabulous and needed time off to be with my family in celebrating Hannah’s Graduation. It’s hard to believe that my youngest has graduated from College…for you young Moms…time DOES fly by so cherish every step along the way!
Today’s card is a similar card that I have blogged about before but I simply re-worked it. I loved it the 1st time I made it and I found a piece of scored Pool Party and looked up the card and re-worked it for you today!
I am doing this to share with you that if you have a card layout that worked out for you before and you liked it…well, why not use it again? The 3 changes I did were…coloring the perfect accents dot with a Black Sharpie, a new stamp set ( Perfectly Wrapped from the NEW Catalog) and added the Silver Metallic Thread.
A black Sharpie works great to color the white accents and I think makes a great impact! The POP with a simple dimensional makes this fun flower come to life…
Here is a “heads up” for you….this set, Flower Shop is carried over in the NEW catalog BUT NOT AS A BUNDLE….so I highly encourage you to get this as a bundle as you will save 15%. True you can purchase it separately in the new catalog but why not get it at 15% off? I adore this stamp set and use it often!
The DSP Strip is just 1″ wide and before I adhered it I scored it at 1/4″ and 1 1/2″ – this is so easy to do and takes a minimal amount of time but makes a big difference.
This below picture of the stamp set that I used is a “keeper” in my eyes….so much that the card that I am sharing with you tomorrow is using the small stamp set…just another way!
For my envelope fun…the stamp reminded me of the DSP….works for me – how about YOU?!?! I think the mailman will smile and I know the recipient will smile as well! 🙂
I think that it is a fun challenge to jazz up the envelopes. One tip that I will remind you is….if you are worried about your envelopes getting torn up in the mail – just ask your post office to hand stamp them….then they will not go thru the machine and is less likely to get torn up!
Here is your 411 picture….save it for the future….you’ll be happy! It is convenient to have to see the products used…
Before I share with you some pictures of Hannah (naturally I am a proud Mom)…I had a FABULOUS time being with my family. It was just the BEST to all be together….share stories….laugh….make memories and I admit, I never opened my computer once.
My last time I posted I share with you that the post for Tricia had 21 comments…..well…. just as I was typing this I see that she had 52 comments – THIS IS FABULOUS – there IS KINDNESS OUT THERE and I am going to sit and read them as you are reading this with my coffee…
Today I am going to be sending out the confirmations for the Product Shares…I know that you are going to love these goodies and with the way the calendar is rolling….hang tight – June 1st will be here in a blink…..so if you want to get in the 1st round of shares….please email me!
I LOVE this below picture, a photographer to it and put it in the colleges website….these are the “roomies” all together walking to graduation….they had a great time living together this past year and they are all off to great places….
Enjoy the day….see you tomorrow!
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by Susan Itell | May 14, 2016 | Product Shares, Uncategorized
Good Morning and I hope that this sweet clip art brings a smile to your face…Speaking of SMILES ON MY FACE…how about all of the FABULOUS and HEARTFELT comments yesterday fro our dear Tricia!
I am driving right now to Hannah’s (actually my 85 year old Dad is and I am going to make this quick as I NEED to be the driver) Yikes – I am spouting some gray’s!!!! 🙂
As of the last I checked, she had 21 comments – my heart is so happy – there IS KINDNESS in our world!
Couple of housekeeping that I need to share (since I most likely will not be on the computer much as it is FAMILY TIME for me and I am super excited) . I truly feel like I have a FOOD TRUCK as I have been working my tail off to prep things so I can enjoy myself too.
PRODUCT SHARES: – Please do not worry if I have not responded with a confirmation to you. I cannot order the products until the new catalog is unveiled on June 1st – and trust me, I will be like Cinderella…..ordering at the strike! I have been receiving your orders (thank you) and I will be sending a confirmation out (as time warrants) – this has been a busy week!
Here is the link to the post that I did outlining all of the product shares – they truly are the way to go as you get a taste of the newbies! I actually love doing the shares even though it is a ton of work….WHY???? – Easy = I know that I was once on the other side receiving shares and it is SOOOOO exciting to be able to get that Priority Mail package….rip it open and GO NUTS and SQUEAL WITH JOY for the new kids on the block!
****Please remember to email me and put in the subject line NEW CATALOG PRODUCT SHARE 2016 along with your mailing address.****** (thank you….it really helps!)*******
NEW CATALOGS: – I was SOOOOO happy to get my catalogs out and even happier to hear that many of you are already receiving them . If you have NOT received yours by Saturday or Monday at the latest, PLEASE EMAIL ME….and I can double check .
If you are currently NOT working with a Stampin’ Up! Demonstrator, I would love to help you and also send you a catalog…..just let me know and when I return, I will pop on in the mail to you! 🙂 It is soooooo me……lots of clean and simple options!
Thank you for understanding that I needed a break – this is a special time for us and I am pinching myself that all of my family will be together….(we all know that this is a rare happening with all of the schedules everyone has)
Stampin’ hugs to you and I hope that you get “inky” while I take a break! – xoxoxox
p.s. – I’ll take pictures for you!!! 🙂
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by Susan Itell | May 13, 2016 | Uncategorized |
Good Morning! Today’s blog is all about Tricia. I am overwhelmed with the emails I have received about doing something for Tricia. I thought about doing a HUGE blast of cards but with me getting ready to be away I was fearful that the timing was not going to be the best….so how about PLAN B!
(Caleb….if you have your Mom’s I-Pad – HIDE IT FROM HER….)
Let’s SHOWER TRICIA with a BLAST of well wishes for a speedy recovery. I do hope that you can take a moment from your day to wish this special young Mom well wishes from an extensive surgery!
20+ years ago Tricia was in an accident and recently she underwent a 10+ surgery on her jaw. We can all imagine the pain and frustration we would have. Naturally she is very limited to being able to see the computer so Calen is her buddy, again!
I want to share with you quickly how my relationship came about….I cannot tell you when it was but I received an email from Tricia that her son Caleb was having a super hard time with the passing of their families Jack Russell, Willie.
Caleb had a love for Eddie and Eddie help him through the passing of WIllie. As we all can imagine, Caleb was having a hard time without his buddy Willie and my blogs cheered him up and he was always excited to see what the animals were up to!
Tricia is a SUD and even though we have never met….WE HAVE MET – there is an instant connection between us. I keep a picture of Caleb at my work area and trust me, I smile everyday! He is very special and but does he love his Mom!
Because I knew how much Caleb loved Eddie, I reached out to Tricia the day we made the decision to let Eddie be at peace. I felt I needed to do this as this little boy has become so attached to Eddie through my blog. I didn’t want him to look at my blog and blind-sighted. This is another thing that I adore about Caleb…he reads my blog! 🙂
Please know that we never know who touches our lives and everyone has “stuff going on in their lives” – I feel so lucky and blessed to have this wonderful family in my cyber life……it would be the BEST to meet one day but for now….I can share my love and support to her with a speedy and painless recovery!
There is no doubt in my mind that Caleb and Dan are taking amazing care of their PRINCESS !!! Speedy recovery my friend! I loved this inspirational quote…it is soooooo true – this is a wonderful family! I THANK YOU for reaching out to me…and look what happened – we are stuck with each other! 🙂
p.s. – Caleb – you can show you MOM after people leave their love with comments!
You are a great boy…I am so proud of you!
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by Susan Itell | May 12, 2016 | Uncategorized |
Good Morning and when the day is Thursday…that means that it is time to play along with the Pals Paper Art weekly challenge. This week is a fun sketch challenge that is one of those “keepers” that we talk about. To me, that means – file it away as you will use it when you are in a pinch to whip up a card!
Fellow Pal, Sandie Conner has given us a great sketch and wait to you see what she did – OVER THE TOP CUTE….please go and pop over to the Pals Paper Art Website and see this cute card as well as what the other designers come up with!
Can’t you see all of the possibilities this sketch has…I played it very safe and simple and wanted to go with a monochromatic theme – I love this feel of a card, it just is so easy on the eye and classic!
Can you see how my Baker’s Twine is “behaving itself” – that is from that secret weapon that I use….the bee wax that gives the twine more body and it makes it easier to work with. I also like to stagger cutting the length of the tails – to me, it just gives a finished polished look.
The below stamp set is carried over and I thing that we all agree – it is a beautiful stamp set and the sentiments are spot on but that crosshatch stamp – that is a great one to stamp off and then use it as a backdrop.
Here is a side shot that you can see that I scored at the white layer to give the rather plain card some interest and texture. Sometime I sit back and say to myself…isn’t it amazing what you can do with paper? I say this because I think that many of us feel that we nee to “fuss things up” all of the time…but remember, sticking to the basics…..simply works!
This SUPER FUN paper, Pop of Pink – is right up my alley…..Black, White and Melon Mambo – FUN and CLASSIC paper. I am always so happy that Stampin’ Up! comes out with classics like this as it makes it so easy to make a card!
I think that the Envelope Liner Framelits are still available and I highly suggest that you do get them…they really make it easy to line and envelope but there are still other ways to give your envelop some love…..a simply covering of the back flap works for me! Just take a piece of 2 1/2″ X 6″ piece of paper, adhere it and then snip off the excess…EASY. DONE!
One final look – mixing up the patterns makes it interesting as well. I adore small prints as they just sem to be so versatile. (Remember, small prints are great when you want to paper piece (remember the Vivid Vases)?
Does anyone know where I can find some extra hours today???? We are leaving in the morning for the weekend festivities and my TO DO’s are quite TALL. I did get all of the catalogs out so get ready for the best book you could snuggle up and read!!!!
We are on day 15 of rain( it would be a great time to snuggle up and read)…..not that it is a constant rain….it is RAIN….I am looking forward to a day of sunshine….I told John that I feel like I am a huge piece of Blue Cheese…..I am MOLDY with the RAIN!
Until tomorrow!
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