Paper and Scissors Rock!

Welcome to the world baby girl.....

2012-01-17T20:19:00.002-05:00

Hi Bloggers,

So I have been inundated by work as of late, so please pardon the interruption to our Featured artist series. My intention is to complete a full month's worth, but- life intervenes.

So today I have a different feature to talk about. Today my Assistant over at the hotel, his wife delivered a healthy 8 lb, 8 oz 22 inch baby girl! It is their first child, and Mommy and Baby are doing well. No name for the new darling as yet, but they are settling on a few top choices.

Some of you know about my private life, but many of you don't. I do not have children, was never blessed in that way. So the birth of this little girl seems a little closer to home, and I could not be more ecstatic for Tim and his wife.

So welcome to the world little one. I am so happy for your safe arrival, and your parents could not love you more.

Big Hugs,

Laurel

Featured Artist Series...Day 12.. Joy Fotojoy

2012-01-14T11:40:00.002-05:00

Hi Blogggers!

So I had a few days of rest, and work, and I back to share with you my featured artist for Day 12, and yes we are behind 2 days...yeesh!

Day 12's artist is....... Joy!! Fotojoy to you and me, everywhere.

I met Joy through the Ustream gang last year, and I find her to be truly what her name says, a Joy. She is extremely talented, long been a scrapbooker, painter, art journaler and all around crafter. She is a neighbor to another good friend of mine http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifMitzi, and they have been able to get together quite often when their schedules align, for a little shopping and visiting. Most recently, Joy is participating in DarcyW's postcard challenge, and I really have enjoyed the postcards so far. Just amazing work, and such a cool idea.

Here is everywhere to find Joy:

Blog: http://fotojoys.blogspot.com
Ustream: fotojoys artful delights
YouTube:1fotojoy
Twitter:@fotojoy

I almost got to meet Joy at a gathering last May, and unfortunately could not make it. I truly hope to meet her in person in the future. The Ustream crowd encouraged her to start her own show, and I hope her schedule permits her to do some more shows, because the talent she shares is really spectacular!

Here is a tag I made for Joy:

Thanks for sharing Joy!

Big Hugs!

2012-01-12T13:01:00.000-05:00

Hi Bloggers!

Today I am bringing you Featured Artist for Day 11. The lovely Linda, known to you as LindaLap over on YouTube.
I first discovered Linda via YouTube last year, when she showed a creative way to make a zippered bag out of a piece of 12 x 12 paper. Ingenious, and cute! I contacted Linda to ask if I could share it on my Ustream show, and we have been following each other, ever since.

I really like a lot of the projects Linda makes. She re-purposes thrift store items, makes cards, participates in a lot of challenges, and has a really great way of sharing her creations via YouTube. I love all of her videos. Linda has a really soothing voice. Her videos are put together really well, with great music, and videography. I am hoping Linda and I could become friends on skype and she could walk me through how she creates her videos, and edits them.

One of the ways I have connected with Linda, and she may not know it, is she followed a gal in an Urge to Purge organization project. Well, great idea! I have a need to move my craft room to a larger room in my house, and she gave me the tools to do it, without spenging a fortune. and to complete it a little at a time. Thanks Linda! Love the stickles box you created.

Here is everywhere to find Linda:
Blog:http://cardsbylinda.blogspot.com
YouTube:LindaLap

Here is a video of a tag I created for Linda.

So keep creating Linda! I love all of your projects, and how you have inspired me.
Hugs,

:

Featured Artist Series- Day 10...Sarah 3dogs2kids

2012-01-11T00:00:00.000-05:00

Hello Bloggers!Well here we are back on track for our day 10 Featured Artist Series! See, sometimes things work out!BTW- all tags will be mailed out to the artists following the series at the end of the month. I have a desire for a group photo of all the artwork this year.
So without further ado....Day 10's Featured Artist is: Sarah...3dogs2kids

I met Sarah this past year via her Ustream channel the Green Craft Workshop.
I cannot tell a lie, I first thought it meant "Green" as in going green or enviornmentally responsible? It turns out it is a literal Green colored workshop in Sarah's yard. But, Sarah is also a great repurposer.I have seen her take inspiration from bakery boxes, bottles, beautiful photos of her world around her as well as her family, and wonderful dogs.
Sarah is my favorite "shabby chic" style artist. We share that vintage twist to things that I really like. I also could listen to Sarah talk all day long. Love her Scottish accent. She is quick whit, and shares so many of her projects with all of us, and makes it look so easy. After watching Sarah, I often feel inspired, empowered in a sense that "I can make it too"!
Sarah has a lovely family including 2 dogs called...Chunky and Mitzi. They sound adorable, but that could be the accent.:)Sarah and I have a lot in common, and I thrilled we have become friends. We cardmaker's stick together!
Sarah is a member of the Wild Orchid Crafts Design Team, the Wild Bunch over on YouTube. So you can see her beautiful creations on two channels.

Here is everywhere you can find Sarah:
Blog: http://thehandmadecardblog.wordpress.com
YouTube:3dosand2kids
WOC YT:wildorchidcrafts
Ustream:The Green Craft Workshop
Folksy store:The Blue Shed
Twitter:@SarahJAllan

Love everything you make and share Sarah! Love, the cool words you use... and love to hang out and faff around crafting with you!

Hugs,

Featured Artist Series Day 9- Jean-the Musical Scrapper

2012-01-10T14:21:00.001-05:00

Hi Bloggers!So here I am a day behind again! What can I say, Life intervenes! My work schedule has been crazy as of late, so I am not going to worry about what day I am on, just going to create a total of 31.

So for Day 9, I would like to share with you my friend Jean. MusicScrp in a lot of places.

I met Jean on Ustream this past year, and I really enjoy watching her create mini books, and complete challenges. She participated in my Rolodex swap last year, and the detail of her rolodex card was amazing. What I like most about Jean, is not only her talent in papercrafts, and her dedication to completing her projects..(something I totally lack.), but her efforts to keep the community together with her Stickam group. Now it is a secret, and you have to be invited, but I have had some really good laughs crafting along with all the girls.

Here is where you can find Jean:
Blog: the musical scrapper
UStream: The Musical Scrapper Mondays 4pm EST
Twitter:@MusicScrp

So Jean is a fun loving, musically talented, scrapper in the purest sense. Loves to take the pictures of her adventures, and loves to share the albums, and layouts, and cards, and mini books she seems to quickly produce with all of us. This year she has taken the UIU pledge to "Use it Up", and she is also participating in Darcy W's postcard challenge. Her story is pretty amazing, and she has put a lot of thought into the characters. I look forward to her progress, and her Ustream Shows every Monday night at 4PM EST. Most of all, I love Jean's easy laugh, and positive outlook.

So here is a little tag I made for Jean:

Thanks for sharing Jean!
Hugs,

Featured Artist Series- Day 7, Day 8--Resources

2012-01-07T23:33:00.003-05:00

Hi Bloggers!Today we are going to go in a different direction with my series and feature a few great website resources, that also have YouTube channels and sometimes Ustream shows. This is what happens when I get stuck working the weekend.....what are you going to do, eh?
The websites below I am going to categorize as resources. I follow them all year round, and I learn a lot about upcoming products, and get CHA previews. The 2 great websites I am referring to are:

www.craftcritique.com and www.paperclipping.com

Both are useful but in different ways.
Craft Critique is a website that does product reciews from all over the crafting world. Different crafters will purchase a new product or tool, and use it as a test run, and give thier opinion about how it worked. I find this really helpful for when I want to know how something works, and in what applications. Especially, if the tool is a little costly. It's kind of lie having a team of personal testers, just like you. I encourage you to check them out. They do reviews for every kind of craft imaginable.

Paperclipping.com is a little different. They hold interviews of scrapbooking industry professionals, review product lines, hold live instruction classes, and one of my favorites is thier video series from CHA. Noelle Hyman goes booth to booth ,with her microphone interviewing all the rock stars and filming all the displays. You can get a preview of all the new products coming out. Pretty cool. I really like thier website as well where you can find podcasts, and resources, and calls for design teams, and information.So, with Winter CHA upon us, you will want to subscribe to Paperclipping4u over on YouTube , so you do not miss a thing.

I did make a tag tonight as kind of a stress relief from my crappy work day. I hope you do not mind that I think I am keeping this one for myself, or will at least keep it around for a bit, finish it off and make a gift of it to a future artist. I am working tomorrow, and have been quite tired, so I may use the evening to catch up with another artist for the upcoming week, as I will not have my Ustream Show tomorrow. Gotta make the doughnuts....So forgive no video tonight, or tomorrow, but perhaps you will enjoy visiting the two resources I mentioned.
Thanks for reading!
Hugs,

Featured Artist Series- Day 6- Julia- Straydreams

2012-01-06T23:08:00.000-05:00

Hello Bloggers!Well, I am almost caught up to being a day behind.... Thanks for all the lovely comments here and over on YouTube, I am really enjoying this series this year.
Today's Featured Artist is.....Julia--Straydreams.

This avatar I think is hysterical, and is so me, and also so Julia. She has such a great sense of humor. The avatar is from Julia's Ustream channel.
I was fortunate to "meet" Julia over on Ustream this past year, and I absolutely adore her. She is a really creative gal, who works in a lot of mediums. She has shown how to make paper buttons, decorated a hat (gorgeous), by the way she made the hat, made great journal pages, and tons of great storage books, mini books, cards, canvases, the list goes on and on.
Here is everywhere you can find Julia:
Blog: http://straydreamsblog.blogspot.com/
YouTube:http://www.youtube.com/user/straydreams44?feature=watch
Ustream:http://www.ustream.tv/channel/straydreams
Twitter:@straydreams

Julia your art inspires me. I love how you make something your own, and use re purposed materials, or follow through on an idea. Your art is great, but your soul is better. I love how easy you are with a laugh, and I am very glad to have made friends this year.Here is a little tag I made for Julia:

Thanks for sharing all you do Julia!
Hugs,

Featured Artist Series- Day 5- Jenny-Ozegran

2012-01-06T01:05:00.000-05:00

Hello Bloggers!Here I am again sans the Geddy Cat to bring you another Featured Artist. Today we are on Day 5 of my Featured Artist Series, and yes, I am still a day behind.:)
Today's Featured Artist is the wonderful Jenny or Ozegran .
Jenn is extremely talented in many mediums, but I happen to love her mini albums the absolute best. I was fortunate to meet Jenn over on Ustream last year, and have been able to catch a few of her shows when I get the time change correct. Not only is she super talented, but she is really, really funny. We have had a great time cutting up on Ustream a time or two.
What I love about her crafting is the time and care that goes into every step. Take some time to watch a few of her 300(!) You Tube videos and you will see magic in the making. Gorgeous art journal pages, and mini's and Jenn showing you how she did every step.
I also frequent her blog, which she shares her latest projects and obsessions from our wonderful arty world.

Here is everywhere you can find Jenn:
YouTuube: Ozegran
Ustream: Scrap N Share- Ozegran
Blog:www.ozegran.blogspot.com
Twitter:@ozegran
So below is a video of a little tag I made with her in mind. Jenn loves Tim Holtz as much as I do!
Thank you so much for all you share Jenn!
Hugs,

Featured Artist Series- Day 4- Tracy- TracyTreasures24

2012-01-04T19:46:00.005-05:00

Hello Bloggers!

Yes we are still a day behind with the Featured Artist Series...

Day 4's Featured Artist is... Tracy, TracysTreasures24.

I first started following Tracy over on Youtube a year or so ago. She is from Ontario, Canada, and I was introduced to her via her 365 project. She was talking about a project where you take a photo everyday, and then scrapbook it, as a visual diary of a year in the life.
Since then, I have enjoyed many, many of Tracy's projects. She makes amazing Mini Albums, colors beautiful cards, and makes ingenious designs. She is a very, very talented gal. She has recently joined a design team for a local scrapbooking store, and I am sure their displays are beautiful, as everything Tracy makes is.

Here is where you can find her:

Blog:Tracys Treasures
YouTube: TracysTreasures24

Below is a video of the tag I created for Tracy:

I thought she would enjoy the Bingo background as she works in the accounting field....

I hope you like my creation Tracy! Thank you for sharing all you do!

Hugs,

Featured Artist Series- Day 3- Christina - acraftygirl cabettsutubeuser

2012-01-04T13:26:00.003-05:00

Hello Bloggers!

Day 3 featured artist on the 4th? Yes, my friends...I had to work the night shift last night and it has thrown my schedule off a bit.

Day 3 Featured Artist is... Christina! A lovely gal from BC.

Here is where you can find her:

YouTube:acraftygirl cabettsutubeuser
Blog:http://freshbrewedeverymorning.blogspot.com

I first came across Christina a while back on YouTube. She and her husband had built a storage house for copic markers, that I thought was just darling. I have followed her ever since, and have found that we have a lot in common. Christina loves the thrift stores, (just like me), and she is a great repurposer of her treasures. We also share a love for vintage things, or the aesthetic of vintage things, and we both love to cook and craft.

I love Christina's mini books that she creates, with so much detail, and care. She is a wonderful gal, who you need to go check out. Her projects are gorgeous, and she has a wonderful personality. Since we share a lot of common loves, I hope to get to know her a little better through YouTube. I just love making friends through this wonderful medium.

Below is the video showing you the tag I made for Christina...

Thank you Christina for all you share! I just love everything you make!

Hugs,

Featured Artist Series- Day 2- Fran- Lady of Lost Times

2012-01-02T23:44:00.002-05:00

Hey Bloggers!

Betcha thought I forgot my challenge already? No way, just had a visit from the wonderful Artedar which delayed my posting a bit. Dar and I had a great day creating. It is great to have a girlfriend who loves to art and lives fairly close:)

But I would be remiss if I did not take the opportinity to tell you about another girlfriend of mine.... Fran known to you as Ladyoflosttimes. I met Fran on Ustream, and then met her in person at the Art on the Ranger retreat. I am amazed by her, as she is primarily a knitter, crocheter, and an art journaler. 3 things I do not do very well. She taught a great book binding class at our retreat, and is extremely patient and creative in beading. Really, anything with an intricate pattern that seems impossible, Fran is your girl.
One of my favorite qualities about Fran is she has a marvelous spirit, is warm and open hearted, ( you know how we Jersey girls are), and her laugh fills a room. She makes me happy, happy, happy.

Here is where to find Fran:

Blog:http://ladyoflosttimescrafts.blogspot.com/
Ustream:http://www.ustream.tv/channel/randomly-crafty
YouTube:http://www.youtube.com/user/ladyoflosttimes
Twitter:@ladyoflosttimes

Thank you Fran for reminding me to face my crafting challenges, when a pattern is too difficult, work through it! Thank you so much for your friendship and support.

Below is a tag I made for Fran:

Forgive the raccoon eyes, bad lighting, and grainy footage...no sleep lately, lamp broke and not my regular camera... long story...lol

Love ya Fran!

Hugs,

January 2012 Featured Artist Series- Day 1- Martha

2012-01-01T15:05:00.003-05:00

Hi Everyone!

Happy New Year! Let's start the new year off properly with my featured artist series!

Today's Featured Artist is..... Martha , better known to you as SeekingforArt.

Martha is just one of those downright lovely people, who is incredibly talented. I had the good fortune to meet her when she joined us on the Art on the Ranger Retreat this past October. Martha is extremely talented, in a lot of mediums, and you need to go check her out:

Blog:http://seekingforart.blogspot.com/
YouTube:SeekingforArt
Ustream:SeekingforArt
Twitter:@seekingforart

So there is everywhere you can find her. and find her you need to. She is a treasure who has been published many times. Her Melted Crayon Frida's were in Somerset Studio, but she is far to humble to mention it. Martha has been involved with ATC's for All, Art Trader, which is juried, and tough , tough to get into. My favorite quality of her's aside from her art is her warm personality and great sense of humor. ("That would be your technique then Fran").

I can just hug her to bits!

So, here is my little tribute tag made for Martha, my good friend, who taught me the joys of melted crayons, and to smile with your heart everyday.

Hugs,

January 31 day Challenge.. Featured Artist Series

2011-12-31T11:17:00.002-05:00

Hello Blog Followers!

Last year I participated in Marion Smith's 31 day challenge. My contribution was to create a piece of art, and tell you about some of my favorite artists I have met through YouTube. I was very happy with how the series came out, and I would love to provide another series this year.

The economy being what it is, and many people last year were very protective of their privacy, and opted not to send me their address, (perfectly fine:)), this year I need to come up with a different method to tribute and share these talented folks with all of you. I also have a lot of personal projects to get accomplished in January, and work a full time job!

I was thinking, I have the most time on Sundays and look forward to my Ustream show on Sunday Mornings. During the month of January, I will be using my Ustream show on Sundays to create the tribute pieces which will be tags this year. I can use the remainder of the day on Sundays to record my videos and schedule them for upload each day.

If you choose to visit with me on Sundays, you can help with the creation of the art, but you will have to wait to see the videos on YT to determine who the artist of the day is. If I am fortunate to have the artists address, I will mail off the tag, at the end of the month. If I am not able to obtain the address, I will retain the tag as a tribute piece.
So if you get a YT message from me, asking for your address, this is why. I hope to make all tags, but if I am moved in another direction, I will follow.

I hope you will join me for the art creation, and follow the videos. I enjoy your feedback very much.

Happy New year......

Hugs,
Laurel

Happy Holidays!

2011-12-24T10:22:00.004-05:00

Hello there my poor neglected blog, and more importantly my neglected blog readers!

It has been an interesting 4th Quarter, to say the least. I am happy to say, I made it through, and I am very grateful for the following things:

1. My Mother's health. She is somewhat stabilized, although she has her bad days.
2. My wonderful supportive friends, and family.
3. The art community on YouTube, Ustream, and everywhere.

Although I have not been able to have as much time to create as I would like, I am ever grateful to those that encourage me. I am hopeful in the new year to undertake some more creative endeavors.

1. Transfer my art room to the office and vice -versa. I am space challenged. I have a lot of materials I can't get to. The office is double the size and will allow me to have sufficient space to create more often.
2. Start selling kits, and my other creations via this blog or Etsy.
3.Be a dedicated DT member for Lindy's Stamp Gang- the best company in the world!
4. USE my stash
5. Perhaps start a ning Community
6. Update my blog, regularly.
7. Get back to making You Tube Videos, I really enjoyed that.
8. Keep up my Sunday Ustream show.
9. Get out the pile of RAK's that I keep meaning to send.
10. Plan another art retreat for next October.

So these are my goals, and I hope to start out on the right foot.

Thank you for all of your support, encouragement, and tolerance!

Happy Holidays to everyone!

Merry, Merry!

You Tube/Ustream Blog Hop Anyone?

2011-10-18T08:02:00.002-04:00

Hi Everyone!

This past Sunday on my Ustream show, the topic turned to sharing within the community. I was thinking it might be nice to host a You Tube/Ustream Blog Hop to give those new to the circle, a great overview of people and crafts that many can participate with.

It is a little quick to get together a hop for Halloween, so how about Thanksgiving? Perfect holiday to showcase how grateful we are for our followers.

So here are the rules for participation......

1. You must have a blog.( Don't worry if it hasn't been updated in a while.)
2. You must have a YT channel or Ustream show or both or either.
3. Leave a comment on this blog post that you would like to participate with a way for me to reach you via e-mail. I need this to get you your position in the hop, and provide links etc.
4. Create a project in the theme...Thankful/Grateful etc. It can be anything, journal page, card, mixed media, whatever you like.
5. Have your project ready to go by 11/19/11, and create a blog post. If you have a YT channel you should film a video about the hop as well.
6. Blog hop will begin 11/20/11.
7. Any questions? e-mail me at : ldeviney@comcast.net

Make it fun! Sign up here!

Hugs,

Reflections of Scotia

2011-10-10T18:26:00.002-04:00

So dear friends, another year has past making it three years since I had to say good-bye to Scotia. It sounds strange to be mourning a pet for so long, but if you bear in mind, I have no children, and I was lucky to own Scotia for 16 years, maybe you can understand.

She was the best cat you could ever want. Never any trouble, loved me through and through, although she was pressed to show it. Not a day goes by that I don't think of her, and I doubt one ever will. She was truly my best friend. The one who got all my secrets, the one who loved me, even when I did'nt deserve it, the one who made me laugh the hardest, and the one who was with me through so many changes in my life. To this day, and forever I am grateful, that I was so blessed to have her for so many years. Yet, as I write this, the tears are rolling down my face, as I am filled with unending guilt, that I had to make the decision to let her go. The cancer was starting to effect her, and it would have been a selfish decision to prolong her life, for only my gain. That scene from Forrest Gump, when Forrest is at Jenny's grave, and croaks out" I miss you Jenny..." is how I feel today. In her honor, as she loved playing on our porch while we decorated for Halloween, I never decorate before October 10. I can imagine her watching me from her perch on the porch, and have some happy memories.
She was so funny. She loved everything made of Pork, could eat her weight twice a day, and had a low tolerance for dogs. She once shoveled out a pork tenderloin like a canoe. She despised an old boyfriend, who did not treat me very well, and made his life miserable by urinating on his clothes, often.
Occasionaly, she would escape, try and live amoungst the wildlife for a day, and then trot on home, to be greeted by an overflowing bowl, and a worried Mom. She adored Keith,and she let me know he was a good guy, by never messing with his clothes, and giving him tons of purrs.
What can I say? I miss my girl. I guess I always will.
To tell you how funny animals are, many of you know that we now have a tuxedo cat named Geddy. Geddy is a good boy, and he truly saved me from a broken heart after we lost Scotia, but he is very different than her.

For example, Geddy does not give me the time of day, unless his bowl is empty, or Keith is unavailable. Geddy worships Keith , literally. I truly believe animals have a sixth sense to detect pain in their owners, as last night, as I was retiring to sleep, a black and white furry boy came crawling in my bed. For the first time ever, he purred, and cooed, and laid at my feet, laid beside me and batted at my face. It was if he was trying to wipe my tears away. I swear he knew I was sad. Also when I begrudgingly woke up, hesitant to face today as it is the anniversary of my great loss, there he was waiting in the hallway to go brush our teeth. I swear , he knew. And now, as I write this, Geddy is at my feet.

Scotia, you are sorrowfully missed, and not a day goes by that you are not in my thoughts and heart. Rest easy and know that your little soldier in the black and white tuxedo is doing his best to ease my pain. I think he has a life long quest ahead. I miss you so much.

As I said last year, do me a favor and Hug your furry kids today. They really are so selfless, and deserve some extra attention.

Big Hugs,

It's Fall Ya'll!! Lindy Stamp Gang Contest

2011-10-05T15:27:00.002-04:00

Hello All!

Just got back from hosting the Art on the Rang(er) Retreat! A wonderful get together! I want to Thank all of the great gals who attended, shared, and supported this event! Big Hugs and Kisses!!!!

Lindy's has a great contest...... Click here: http://lindystampgang.blogspot.com/

I hope to get back creating this week! Thanks for all of your wonderful support!!!!

Hugs,

Art on the Ranger Retreat! 9/30/11-10/4/11

2011-09-10T14:23:00.001-04:00

Please click on the page Art on the Rang(er) Retreat on this blog for further info!

Mailing Update....

2011-08-07T11:51:00.002-04:00

Hello Everyone!

Just wanted to take a brief minute and update the rolodex swappers.....

All have been received! That I know of, we did wind up with a few not sent in, so that leaves us with a total of 17 swappers including myself.
I had made a mess of the actual swapping, and managed to sort it all out last night, when we returned from Mother's, so now all that is left to do is get them packaged and off to the mail. I hope to do that this weekend.

I do have a lot to accomplish between now and then. Mother is set to return home this Wednesday, and we still have tons of cleaning and organizing, and family training to accomplish before then. I don't think we will make it, but we may get things moving in the right direction.

I expect that the next several weeks will be taken up with family obligations. I wanted to give you a glimpse of the emotional roller coaster we have been on.

We have done a lot of research, many facility tours, (at one stage we were considering assisted living facilities),tons of cleaning, and encouragement, and a lot of prayer and hoping for a positive outcome. The nurses at the hospital and the doctors have been fantastic, and I am left feeling happy for my Mother's progress, exhausted over the insurmountable work load, aggravated with my employer, proud of my local property team, art deprived, and grateful for my Ustream, and online friends, and generally wrung out. I want to acknowledge my wonderful Keith, who is my voice of reason, support, and love. Without him, nothing is possible, and I am so very lucky to have him in my life.
Geddy the wondercat, has also been pretty great too, offering up a snuggle when I need it, even though he can't stand it:).

It is far from over, but I feel like I have my breath back, even for a moment, and I am beyond grateful, and I am hopeful we will get through all of this.

I appreciate everyone's patience for the mail, the lovely cards I have received, and most of all the kind words and help just thinking through each situation as it comes up. I still need it!

I hope to back to my life pretty soon. And when things return to normal, I hope to finish my craft room, and have developed a better relationship with my family. Life always grows in directions you never think it will....

Big Hugs to all,

Challenge #2: Create a shaped card

2011-07-31T14:32:00.004-04:00

Hello Everyone,

Today on my Ustream show, we made a shaped card. So my challenge to you, is to do the same. Take an A2 sized card base 4 1/4 x 5 1/2 inches and turn it into something else, what ever you want! A bird, a baseball mitt, a car, a flowerpot, you name it. The shape you come up with should be recognizable as the object, and it should be a functioning card. It can be any occasion you like. The video below shows the birdhouse cards I made, and an example of a flowerpot card.

You can film a video response and enter via YouTube or you can use the linky tools here to upload a photo of your shaped card. I will choose a few winners next Sunday of some goodies from my stash, most likely stamps, and that sort of thing.

Have fun, and be creative!

Thanks for watching!

Hugs,

Kicked while I'm down

2011-07-28T22:07:00.002-04:00

So today was not a good day at my day job.

It was a great day for my Mother, and she used a wheel chair for the first time, managed 3 hours of physical therapy, and made a lot of progress.

Just goes to show you, there is always something to be grateful for, and if the bears at work have decided to descend upon me, at least my Mom sounds encouraged, and even a little happy for the first time in weeks.

I'll take it as one for the good books, especially if it means she is closer to recovery.

My future employment is now in the hands of my team. Considering they have let me down as of late, it is hard to place your trust in them. I know I am a good manager, and have produced fantastic results in the past. It is just a matter of doing it once again. and it is about priorities, and as much as I take my job seriously, my family comes first.

Frankly, if that is'nt good enough, then I don't want to work there anyway. But I find myself stuck in the place that many of us face, I have to work, and I like it there. Quitting on a sound principle isn't the answer, and won't help my bank account.

So, today I was "documented" for the first time in a 20 year career. Mostly for things that are not my direct responsibility, and mostly because it says General Manager next to my name. So it is all my responsibility ultimately.

Sometimes I hate being the boss. Today was one of those days. Through it all, and it was not pleasant, I find myself very grateful for the good day my Mom had.

Pardon the expression, but everyone else can kiss my ass. I know how hard I work, and it has to be good enough, for today anyway. Because today it was Mom's turn for a good day...

Hugs,

Update... 7/27/11

2011-07-27T10:19:00.002-04:00

Hello everyone,

As many of you are aware, My Mother was hospitalized last week, and I really want to THANK all of you for your patience kindness and support as we navigate her illness.

I have gotten a lot of questions, so let me try and address them. My Mother is a type 2 diabetic. Last week her sugar bottomed out, and she encountered her legs locking up, and excessive swelling of her lower half. She has experienced very painful neuropathy in her legs for the past 2 years, which has exhausted her, and impeded her ability to walk very well. She requires a lot of assistance. The wonderful doctors and nurses at South Jersey Regional Medical Center, managed to stabilize her, and get her treatment for what was believed to be a blood clot. The clot dissolved, and they changed her medication, and she is making her way back to becoming more active in her life.

Yesterday, Tuesday, after a week in the main hospital, she was transferred to the rehabilitation hospital, and she starts her physical and occupational therapy, which is intensive, to gain back her ability to walk and care for herself.

I am an only child, so the weight of her care has shifted from my Dad, to me. We have been doing our best to keep up with preparing thier condo for receipt of a wheel chair and other medically needed equipment, seeing all the doctors, getting the things she needs, etc. My parents live a 1 hour drive from me, so I have been commuting as well. It is really worth it, but I am becoming very tired, and I am trying to meet the demands of my job as well. A special thank you to everyone over at the hotel, for all you are doing in my absence.

I have received many questions regarding the rolodex swap. I am still waiting for receipt of 3 girls cards, upon receipt I will swap out everything and get it mailed out. I hope to have everyone's cards this week.

I am still working on my art room, literally a box at a time. If I manage to get a box done a day, I am happy. If only I did not have 1000 boxes....

I am trying to remain positive in this impossible situation, get as much rest as I can, and do the best I can for everyone. My art friends have become an invaluable resource, and I have realized, that art and the community is truly my solace.

Keep a good thought, and I hope to be back soon, with My Mom's health restored, and my employment intact, my studio completed, and having had a good nap.

Big Hugs to you all,

7/15/11 Rolodex Swap Update

2011-07-15T19:27:00.001-04:00

Hi All!
As of 7/15/11, here is the received:

Mailing Status:

1. Laurel (me:)
2. Julia- Received
3. Darlene-Artedar-Received
4. Michele-AnMiSu-Received
5. Linda-Lindalap- Received
6. Diane- Received
7. Sheri- Received
8. Beth-Received
9. Kerri- Received
10.Lisa-Received
11.Clare- Received
12.Ketsia- Received
13. Carol Blais- Received
14. Sarah
15. Mandy
16. Sandi
17. Martha-Seekingforart
18. Debra-Received
19. Jean Musicscrp- Received

I really appreciate everyone's participation. BTW- Here is my address:

Laurel DeViney
307 Kirklin Ave
Linwood, NJ 08221 USA

I am looking forward to seeing everyone's finished rolodex cards!

Hugs,

1300 Subbies! Giveaway Time!

2011-06-27T20:31:00.002-04:00

Hello everyone!

Wow! Who would have thought it? I have crossed another milestone over on YouTube! 1300 plus subscribers! I cannot believe it!

THANK YOU!!!!!

Details for the little giveaway I am hosting can be found below in the video. I will leave the giveaway open until 7/5/11. You can earn up to three entries.... post a comment on my YouTube channel- on the Giveaway video...Scotia9338. You can become a follower on my blog, and post a comment here on this post, and you can follow me on Twitter, and retweet the giveaway details.Please include me in the tweet. LaurelDeViney on Twitter.

1300 Thank you's!!!!

Hugs,

Appreciation and Friendship

2011-06-26T19:56:00.002-04:00

Hi Everyone,

I have been thinking a lot lately about friendship, appreciation, humility and a lot of similar topics.

I feel it is very important to appreciate your friends and acquaintances, always remember to be humble and grateful. There are so many wonderful artists in the community, that I have been fortunate to interact with, and some I have met in person. Recently I have been approached to be a mediator, or a shoulder to cry on, by several people. I always do my best to help friends build a bridge, or lend an ear.

As I am thinking about these people, situations and topics, the advice of my dear ole Dad creeps into my mind...

1. What does it cost you to say Thank you? Absolutely nothing, and you gain so much.

2. Don't sweat the small stuff. The older I get, the more I realize how true this is. It just ain't worth it.

3. When irritation comes, breathe in deeply, exhale, and smile. Take a moment and decide if it is worth your energy to get worked up over. Usually not worth it.

4. Everyone loves appreciation, and it is so easy to give, and the most often forgotten.

5. No one likes a know-it-all. There is one in every crowd... it is exhausting to be inundated with a singular opinion, that you may or may not agree with.

6. This is my hubby's best advice: No one ever got in trouble keeping his or her mouth shut. ( enough said, I think)

7. Be Grateful, and humble. Appreciate those around you, your family, friends, your position, everything....there are so many affected by real problems, and injustice.

8. Be Genuine! Most misunderstandings start because of miscommunication. Say what you mean, Mean what you say.

9. Don't forget where you come from. Everyone started somewhere, and had a village around them supporting their experiences and success or failure. Contrary to popular belief, you can go home again. I think it is more important to never leave home by staying grounded, as your life teaches you things through experiences.

10. Talk it out. There are multiple sides to every story. If you encounter mistreatment from a friend, don't clam up, talk it out. Clamming up harbors resentment, and frustration builds. Make sure it is positive conversation. If nothing positive can be gained from talking it over, than I wouldn't. Just let it go...but really let it go. It was probably petty in the first place.

I know we all know these things, but sometimes seeing it acts as a great reminder. Also to the easier said than done bunch.... it really isn't. It is easier to do than reassemble the pieces of friendship following an argument.

I am proud to say, that in my friendship of 24 years with my husband Keith, we have had one argument. It was a dozy. Lots of drama, so much so, we never had another one....and we don't plan on it. One aspect of our partnership is, we don't hold it in, and we don't yell or raise our voices. If either of us has an issue we refer to #10, and we pretty much abide by all of the other suggestions. We both are pretty laid back people, but let's face it, we are from NJ. Known for it's temper tantrums. I can't remember my last one. Healthy debate? Had one last week.

So that is my two cents. If I can ever be a help to any of you, please let me know. I appreciate each and every one of you so much. Thanks for watching my art journey, and reading.

Big Hugs,

Ustream Fun with Friends.....

2011-06-26T19:23:00.002-04:00

Hi Everyone!

Today I had a marathon stream over at Ustream, where we completed a mini album from beginning to end. It was inspired by Kathy Orta;s duct tape technique, which is really helpful in making a sturdy binding. We took some help from the store, and used some Michael's Recollections cards and envelopes, as well as the Tim Holtz Crowded Attic Paper Stash. I had made a similar album shown at the beginning of the Ustream class using G45 Magic of Oz papers. Also a lot of fun. I think my favorite project was a triptych I made using the Tim Holtz Cabinet Card die and Mini Cabinet Card die. Added some beautiful papers ala Rach0113 technique of misting and scrunching, ironing and stamping, and a few Tim Holtz images and some beeswax and there you have it!

I can see myself making a lot of these little shines.

Video of the finished projects below:

Thanks so much for reading and watching... I hope you will visit my YouTube channel and catch me on Sundays at 11am EST over on Ustream.

Hugs,

Rolodex Swap Update

2011-06-23T17:34:00.008-04:00

Hi All!

Sorry to have not been in touch, life happens!

To give an update on the Rolodex swap. Seems as though a Canadian Postal Strike is giving our participants some trouble with the mail. So, deadline to mail to me is now 7/15/11. Just want to give everyone a chance.

Also, Please make 20 rolos, we have had some add ons.

Mailing Status:

1. Laurel (me:)
2. Julia- Received
3. Darlene-Artedar-Received
4. Michele-AnMiSu-Received
5. Linda-Lindalap- Received
6. Diane- Received
7. Sheri- Received
8. Beth-Received
9. Kerri
10.Lisa-Received
11.Clare- Received
12.Ketsia
13. Carol Blais- Received
14. Sarah
15. Mandy
16. Sandi
17. Martha-Seekingforart
18. Debra-Received
19. Jean Musicscrp- Received

I really appreciate everyone's participation. BTW- Here is my address:

Laurel DeViney
307 Kirklin Ave
Linwood, NJ 08221 USA

I am looking forward to seeing everyone's finished rolodex cards!

Hugs,

Update... Rolodex swap, and me....

2011-06-05T08:05:00.003-04:00

Hello Everyone!

You may think I have gotten lost lately, and in a sense I have. It is the start of our season at the hotel, and my day job has taken over! I literally have worked every day this past week, and have six more days to conquer this week.

One of the things I have been doing is playing host to several exchange students from China. We as a company are participating for the first time this year, and getting them settled has been a large task. I have a total of 8 students arriving this past week and next. I had to stop and think about what would a person need to get settled in the US for the first time? Well, it is everything from accommodations, to bank accounts to maps. It takes a lot of effort. It also reaps wonderful rewards. So far 5 students have arrived. I have managed to get them settled into our hotel temporarily, and they will move nearby today. They needed tons of things to meet their basic needs of cooking etc. I have managed to show them the beach, boardwalk, an American yard sale, a nature preserve, and the general area.

Still tons to do this week. I have 3 more arriving this week, and the process repeats itself, along with a trip to Social Security on Thursday. It is amazing to see your own backyard through someone else's eyes, that have never been to America.

So that is where I have been....

I have received the first rolodex swaps. If you are in need of my address, please e-mail me at ldeviney@comcast.net , and I will provide. There has been a lot of discussion about how many to make etc. If you can make 20, that is great. Then I will sort out all of the late folks, and get them swapped out by July 4 weekend.

I have not created anything in a week.. I think I will start out with a card kit to get back into it. Thank you for all of your support and lovely comments for my Wild Orchid Crafts submissions. I was not selected as part of their design team. A few of my good friends were though! Congratulations to Sarah! Way to go!

I will do a show today, just me arting around... not sure where it will lead.

Thanks for all of your patience and support!

Hugs,

Wild Orchid Crafts Design Team Submission.....

2011-05-22T17:12:00.006-04:00

Hi Everyone!

Below are some photos of the projects I created using the beautiful flowers from Wild Orchid Crafts...

First up the altered Clock.....

I found this clock made of wrought iron, for 50 cents at a yard sale.

Next my perfume bottle....

I love the pics of the perfume bottle, if only they all turned out that way! The flowers and seam binding are all Wild Orchid Crafts, the charm is a vintage chandelier drop.

I really enjoyed creating both projects! The flowers are beautiful! check out www.wildorchidcrafts.com

Thanks for stopping by!

Hugs,

Fellow Crafter needs our support....

2011-05-19T08:29:00.006-04:00

Hi Everyone,

I am hopeful that I can appeal to your sense of charity and support of a fellow scrappy sister who is need of our help.

Annette, who is charmfuldelights , over on YouTube, has come upon hard times in this down economy, with the addition that her husband, who is the family's bread winner has been laid off. She is up against it financially, as many of us have been, and facing an unexpected tax bill.

She is selling a lot of her craft supplies, a camera, books, basically everything she has in her craft room, in order to meet the needs she has financially. Please go over to her YouTube channel, and leave her some encouragement, and if you are interested, send her a message for things available for purchase.

Annette, currently is where many of have been in the past, at the end of her rope, and cannot take yet another thing to make life temporarily hard. I can sympathize, for sure.

I saw that Toni, thetoad78, made a video that asked the community for help, and I offerred my assistance as well. Toni says, if we could donate just a little money collectively, a spare dollar or a pound, certainly it would not be missed, and we could do so much to help someone in true need. I agree. If we can raise just a little bit of funds, to help give Annette piece of mind, then this effort will be a success.

So, I am offerring my blog, and a donate button, and an appeal to you my readers, that I hope you can find it in your heart to find a few spare dollars and press Donate so we can help Annette out.

I will pass on the donations to Annette via Paypal on May 31, 2011.

I truly hope you can find it in your heart to donate some spare change.

Hugs,

Rolodex Swap Sign Ups, groups...Revised!

2011-05-06T17:55:00.004-04:00

Hi Everyone!

Busy week for me! I had work, my birthday, Mother's Day to prepare for, there are never enough hours in the day...

Anyway.... I have scoured my e-mail, looked through the comments, and I have come up with the following folks who would like to participate in our little rolodex swap... ( I say little, as a joke..this has gotten a bit large)

The swappers are in no particular order:

1. Laurel (me:)
2. Julia
3. Darlene-Artedar
4. Michele-AnMiSu
5. Linda-Lindalap
6. Diane
7. Sheri
8. Beth
9. Kerri
10.Lisa
11.Clare
12.Ketsia
13. Carol Blais
14. Sarah
15. Mandy
16. Sandi
17. Martha-Seekingforart

Okay..whew! This is a lot of people! I do not know how to do this in groups, as everyone wants a card from each other, so my apologies but it is a lot to do.
I appreciate everyone's interest, and would like to go over the details once again.

Please make 16 Rolodex cards to send to me. If you want one for yourself, make 17 and keep one.
Shape: Telephone and Address Card Sizzix Die - I have this die if you need die-cuts, please send me an e-mail.
Theme: All about you- Interpret how you wish
Info: On one side please include your information. This should include: Your real name, mailing address, facebook, twitter, blog, Youtube channel, Ustream name, Channel
At least one embellishment on each page. No they all do not have to match, just please send work you would like to receive.
Back the cards in medium weight chipboard if possible please.
Hostess gifts are not necessary, but are always appreciated.

If your name does not appear on the list above- I have missed your comment or e-mail. Please e-mail me ldeviney@comcast.net using Rolodex swap as the subject by May 8th! and I will add you. So girls final counts will be announced on Sunday 5/8/11, not to exceed 20, I know this is a lot.- ***SWAP is now closed- Thanks- 5/10/11-ldv

******SUBMISSION DATE EXTENDED*********
They need to be in my hands by June 30th! International girls please allow enough time for my receipt. Self Addressed Envelopes included in your submission are appreciated. International Girls- I must have a valid e-mail address connected to a paypal account submitted with your parcels. I will invoice you return postage once the swap is mailed back out.
Girls in the USA- please include the same amount of postage as it took to get to me inside your envelope. No metered strips please. I will return any unused stamps, so please throw in a few extra.

If you have my mailing address great! If not please e-mail me as detailed above and I will get it to you.

This is going to be fun, have a blast, get creative, and if you run into problems with participation- email me ASAP, as I know life happens.

Thanks so much!

Hugs,

Use what is on your desk challenge... Winners!

2011-04-28T20:47:00.002-04:00

Hi Everyone....

Here are the winners!

A special Thank you to my wonderful friends and judges, Dale, Mitzi and Paula.
It was hard to pick, was'nt it girls?

Hugs,

Rolodex card swap details, and sign ups

2011-04-26T07:53:00.002-04:00

Hi everyone!

Last week on my Ustream show, discussion was had about goals, and RAKS and such. As their seems to be some new folks in our group, who have yet to share their addresses, so the idea was hatched to do this swap.

Here are the details of the swap, please do not sign up unless you plan to fulfill your spots, submission deadlines etc. This is to bring everyone closer together, not alienate them by a silly flaker...

I will take sign ups here on my blog only... until May 4, 2011. Please leave a comment on this post to include you. I will also need you to send me an e-mail with your contact info as follows: Name, YT name, address, blog info, twitter name etc.
Please e-mail this to: ldeviney@comcast.net

Once I have all sign ups, I will form the groups, and you may sign up for more than one spot if you choose. Best to see what we need first.

International swappers are welcome, please be mindful of due dates, and added postage costs.

* Shape~ Telephone & Address Card (Sizzix Die)
* Theme- All about you- interpret how you wish
* Please be sure include your information. ( You Tube Channel, Blog, Facebook,address etc) on one side of the card. If you do not want others to know your address, please do not sign up.
* At least one embellishment on each page (flower, stick pin, charm, etc.)
* Use medium weight chipboard for mounting.
* I will leave it up to you to create your own letter tabs, this way you will have them all look the same. Also, this will also give you the chance to place the cards in any order you'd like.
* I would love for you to go all out on your page. Use whatever techniques you like, and whatever supplies are your favorites.

* PLEASE be fair to everyone participating. If you're unable to continue the swap, please notify me asap. I would like everyone to have a complete Rolodex.

These need to be in my hands no later than June 15th. This will give you plenty of time to create all cards. I will ship out once I receive all the cards.
Place your pages in a plastic zipper type bag to prevent possible water damage and to protect the pages. Include a SASE with the same amount of postage as it took to mail to me, plus and extra two stamps. If additional stamps aren't needed, I will send them back. PLEASE NO metered strips!!!
Thank you all for participating. Have fun!

If you don't already have my address, email me once you're ready to mail out and I will email you my address.

Let the sign ups begin! If you have questions, please e-mail me!

Here are a few examples I found on the internet:

here, and here.

Hugs,

Use what is on Your Desk Challenge.. Update....#2

2011-04-26T07:50:00.002-04:00

Hi Ladies,

Winners to be announced here on Thursday night. I have enlisted the help of a few impartial judges, and I will have their picks by then. Also I have decided to go with 4 winners by dividing the submissions into some categories...so stay tuned!

Thanks for all of your participation, and your patience!

Hugs,

Use what is on Your Desk Challenge.. Update....

2011-04-24T12:58:00.008-04:00

Happy Easter Everyone!

Thanks so much for all of the participation for last week's Use that is on your desk challenge. It was a lot of fun. At this moment, I have a total of 13 submissions, that submitted artwork, via video response or photo upload. If you did participate, and did not link to the challenge video on Youtube, or here on my blog, please send me an e-mail to ldeviney@comcast.net with a photograph of your completed artwork. I will accept entries until 4/25/11. at 8pm EST. You can also send me YouTube message over at Scotia9338.

I will collate all the entries and select a few winning pieces and send out some Lindy's this week. In my mind, we are all winners. So is your desk any cleaner? Not yet? take the challenge and clean up! lol.

In today's Ustream class we made some designer zippered bags, inspired by the lovely Lindalap from over on Youtube. Go check out her channel and blog. Here is a link to her YouTube">Linda Lap
Here are a few pictures of my bags....

Created using the Tim Holtz Crowded Attic paper

Created using K & Co Celeste paper Stash

Created using the Tim Holtz Kraft Resist Paper Stash, and Lindy Stamp Gang Rhododendron Red Rose Starburst Stain

Created using Tim Holtz Shabby Chic(?) Paper Stash

Here is the recording here:

Video streaming by Ustream

During our class, a few ideas for challenges arose, and I will be hosting a rolodex swap upcoming. Sign ups will be accepted here on my blog until 5/4/11. I will create a separate blog post for the swap details. I hope you will participate!

Happy Easter Everyone!

Hugs,

Challenge: Use what is on your desk....

2011-04-17T10:12:00.002-04:00

Good Morning!

Happy Sunday! I hope you are finding lots of crafting time this weekend.

I was speaking with some girls recently about inspiration, staying motivated, and a topic came up that is something I do a lot: Use what is on your desk. I find it helps me to rethink how I will use my supplies, and get outside my box so to speak.

So here is my challenge to you for this week. At some point this week, prior to cleaning up your desk, make a card or a tag using only the supplies on your desk. If you need a specific stamp or card base or die cut, go grab it, but leave the rest up to chance. Set yourself a time limit, I would say no longer than an hour, and get creative. The challenge is in reworking the supplies in a way you had not thought of.

I have created a video below to show you my creations. Please make a video response to the video on my YouTube channel or snap a picture and upload it to your blog, and use the linky tools below to post it here. I will leave the challenge open for one week, and choose a winner on April 24, 2011 of some Lindy Stamp Gang Products.

So we are working on the honor system...don't raid your stash and put it all on your desk, then do the challenge...lol, let it happen naturally. Now I did not say it had to be completed in one sitting...:)

Enjoy it.. it is very liberating...

Hugs,

Lemon Flower Baroque Mini Kit

2011-04-16T17:53:00.005-04:00

Thank you so much! This kit is currently sold out!!!

Hi Everyone!

I am offering another kit! In this kit you will receive the following:

7 Heavy weight chipboard Baroque Die Cuts
3 doilies- 5 inch size
DCWV Lemon Flower Baroque die cuts- Single Sided Glittered, Embossed - 24
DCWV Lemon Flower coordinating Card Stock 20 pieces- 3 glittered (single sided), 6 metallic (double sided), 11 textured cardstock ( double sided ).

One of each patterned papers or cardstock stock die cut in Baroque shape. 44 total sheets of paper!

Stick pin kit- 5 pins and assorted beads in clear, black, green, and pearl
2 small Binding rings, 1 Large
1 Homemade mini closure clasp, with vintage chandelier glass charm
Kraft Cardstock tags- 7 large, 7 medium, 7 small
Flowers- 5 black small iamroses roses, 10 iamroses cherry blossoms, 12 recollections cream or white flowers, and several recollections teardrops in clear.
Bag of Bling- attach with hot glue or glossy accents
Chipboard pieces- 1 small postage frame, 1 large, 2 bookplates from Tim Holtz #8 tag die with centers.
Trims- At least 12 inches of each trim in some cases 18 inches or 1 yard.
11 Ribbons/trims:

Green Bo Bunny Type Bloomers
1/4 green satin
5/8 green with white stiching
5/8 Black Organdy
1/4 Black organdy
Silver trim 1/4 inch
5/8 Yellow Grosgrain
White ruffled with small flowers approx 3/4 inch wide
White striped Satiny- 5/8
White Crochet 1 inch lace
Grey grosgrain with white polka dots

Lots and lots of great coordinating items. Check out the video below:

$30.00 includes Domestic Shipping. International Customers welcome, please e-mail me for added shipping charge.

Thanks for watching!

Hugs,

Lindy Stamp Gang Linky Party!

2011-04-14T19:51:00.000-04:00

Do you love Lindy’s Stamp Gang products? Join the party!

Enter your artwork using any LSG products in the Lovin’ Lindy’s Linky Party and you may win a Little Lindy’s Try-Me Kit! There’s a giveaway a day, drawn randomly, for seven days! Just follow these simple rules:

1. Projects must contain at least one Lindy’s Stamp Gang product.

2. Your email is required to qualify for prizes. (Don’t worry, it’s safe, LSG will never sell or give away your information).

3. Your entry photo must be posted somewhere public, like a blog or online photo album (picasa, google, photobucket). Please link to your blog post, not just your blog address.

4. Enter as many times as you would like.

5. Giveaways will be drawn randomly every day from all entries posted. Winners will be posted on the Lindy’s Stamp Gang blog and will be contacted by email. Prize winners have 7 days to claim their prize.

Are you ready? Just select the grey “Click Here to Enter” button below the thumbnails and follow the steps to join the party!

Can't wait to WIN?

One day only sale!

25% off Starburst Stains, Sprays and Color Shots

April 15 only

Use coupon code TAXDAY on checkout

Shop">http://lindystampgang.com/">Shop at Lindy's Stamp Gang

Lindy Stamp Gang Bunny Hop!

2011-04-11T00:01:00.010-04:00

Welcome Everyone!

Happy Spring! The snow has finally stopped, and the daffodils have bloomed here in Southern NJ. Puts me in a spring time mood!

In honor of Spring, and the Lindy Stamp Gang Bunny Hop, and customer Linky Party...(yes, a wonderful contest!) I created an Easter Topiary...

I was inspired by a similar topiary I saw at my local craft store, but I wanted to improve upon it, so of course I turned to my Lindy Stamp Gang Products, in shimmering spring colors....

I purchased the topiary at my local craft store, and went to town embellishing it. I made the eggs using La Doll Air dry clay, and then colored them by painting on my Starburt Stains and Sprays in Yellow Rose of Texas, Cotton Candy Pink, and Tiffany's Blissful Blue. I also painted up some flowers in the same colors. Hot glued them on my topiary, added some crystal bling flower centers, added the ribbon, and voila! Spring hopped into our home.

The eggs are very shimmery in person. I love how easy Lindy Stamp Gang products are to use, and how versatile the colors are.

So you are in the midst of a Bunny Hop! Be sure to check out the Design Team Members blogs to see all of the wonderful Springtime creations they are making...

Oh,before you go...Lindy's is having a Linky Party April 15-22, for all of you! Each day one lucky artist who creates with Lindy Stamp Gang, and uploads will receive a little Lindy's! You can't win if you don't create! Winners will be randomly selected. Create something using your Lindy's Stamp Gang products in honor of Spring, and upload! It could be you who wins!

Thanks for hopping along with us!

Hugs,

Giveaway and Ramblings....Updated with winner!

2011-04-02T10:35:00.003-04:00

Hi Everyone,

I am so glad to be home! Conferences are great, but makes me appreciate being home more than ever.

So, I know everyone is asking about the giveaway. Hopefully I can award it today. My printer is out of ink, and the overwhelming response in comments requires me to print out the comments, and number them....I am going to Staples today to get the ink.

Being away for a few days and not crafting, has really got me blocked creatively. Sometimes when I have projects due or I am feeling a bit blocked, I make something for someone else, or something I really like doing. Yesterday, I was off, unexpectedly, and felt a bit blocked, so I put everything to the side and worked on Kathy Orta's paper bag mini album. I had wanted to make another one, and it was a good way to get me creating again...now to finish it.

I also have a few cards I need to finish, and some shopping, and some cleaning....how do we manage to fit it all in?

So I have a question...how do you stay inspired? How do you manage to fit it all in? Crafting, Cleaning, Family,work? It is a delicate balance. Reply to this post with your answer via a comment, and I will choose one and award some Lindy's Stamp Gang Goodness!
I will leave this open until next Saturday April 9.

*** Thanks for all of the wonderful feedback! I received a total of 12 comments so I let Random.org select lucky number 9, and our winner is...Julie D! Great suggestions from everyone. I will be sending you some Lindy's goodies!

Thanks for commenting everyone!

Have a productive, Creative day!

Hugs,

1000 Subscribers....

2011-03-25T09:27:00.002-04:00

Hi Everyone,

Late last year, I had a goal of achieving 500 subscribers on YouTube, and with all of your wonderful support, I achieved my goal in no time. Soon after I set a goal to reach 1000, and really thought it would take another year to achieve. I am so overwhelmed and humbled that a mere 3 months later, I have crossed the 1000 subbie mark!

I am so thrilled to share my love of papercrafts with all of you. A lot has changed in the past 6 months for me. I began my Sunday Ustream Show, I have met so many new friends, and got to travel with some of them. I completed the Marion Smith 31 day challenge- (yeah me!), I became a design team member for Lindy Stamp Gang,(another goal of mine), and I basically have come out of my creative shell, and not been so quiet... I sent my artwork to many wonderful designers, including my favorite Tim Holtz, and have received so many warm wishes, via e-mail, and videos...it was a wave of love coming back to me that I never expected. I have really grown artistically.I have all of you to thank. A year ago, I would have been too shy to even try out for a design team, and this year I attempted three!

I currently have a 1000 subscriber giveaway going on at my YouTube channel. I have tried to pack the giveaway with many of my favorite items, and hard to find items, and some personal art, such as my rendition of Kathy Orta's Lost and Found Paper Bag mini. I have achieved my goal of 1000 subbies, (OMG! in one day, of the video going up! Unbelieveable!)and since I am going out of town until 3/31/11 for work, I thought I would sweeten the pot a little.

If I achieve 1500 subbies by the time I return home and close the video, I will award a second and third place place prize. It will be something handmade put together with some items from my stash. I have not sorted out everything I am thinking just yet, but I promise it will be some great items.

I have attached the subbie giveaway video below. To be entered, you must leave a comment on the original video on YouTube, and be a subscriber on YouTube. I would love it if you followed my blog as well.

Thank you all so very much for your support of my creative journey!

Big Hugs,

Tim Coffey Cottage Garden Mini Album Kit

2011-03-17T23:38:00.004-04:00

Hi Everyone! ***Please Note: Any kits ordered between 3/25/11-3/30/11 will be shipped after 4/1/11... Traveling for work! Thanks!

I have been thinking about putting a kit together for sale and here is my very first one!

Quantities are limited, and as I mention in the video, embellishments will vary slightly kit by kit.

All kits come with 6 sheets of medium weight chipboard in a 6 x 6 size
12 6 x 6 double sided sheets of Tim Coffey Cottage Garden Papers
lace and flower pack- 10 iamroses.com flowers and 10 skeleton leaves, ribbon and laces as shown in the video
Metal findings pack including home made book closer, corsage pins, memo pins, adage tickets, beads, and vintage chandelier drop, swivel clasps, large binding ring
lots of die cuts and transparencies from the Cottage Garden Collection 20 plus pieces.
6 Border Strips from Cottage Garden
4 seed packet pockets with tags on adhesive

Any questions please e-mail me at ldeviney@comcast.net

Price per kit is $25 including domestic shipping. International orders welcome, shipping at extra charge, please e-mail me for details.

Thanks for watching!

Hugs,

Lindy Stamp Gang Sale!!

2011-03-16T19:19:00.002-04:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Lindy's is having a sale.....

Thank you to Cynthialoowho, for the fantastic video.

check it out! "www.lindystampgang.com

Coupon Code is POTOGOLD for 20% off your entire purchase!

Hugs,

Graphic 45 Design Team Submission

2011-02-28T20:02:00.010-05:00

Hi Bloggers!

Well, I am putting together my submission for the Graphic 45 Design Team Call. I hope you will indulge me with giving me your feedback on my projects.

Here we go.....

This tag was created as part of my 31 Day Featured Artist Series as a gift for Arlene Cuevas. It is definitely one of my favorite projects. Uses Steampunk Debutante G45 paper collection. Below is the video I made for the challenge and this project.

These wall hangings were created as part of Angieb43's Beauty Swap. Using Steampunk Debutante papers. ( I see a trend here..lol) Here is the video I made regarding this swap.

The cover of my Nestabilities and MFT Dienamics storage book. Also uses Steampunk Debutante.

Domino Necklace created using Steampunk Debutante. Ustream Show was recorded all about creating these necklaces.

http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/12514232

Wall Hanging created as part of the 31 Day Challenge Featured Artist Series for Marion Smith. Uses Le Romantique G45 papers. Here is the tribute video:

One of my favorite tags, created using On the Boardwalk Graphic 45 papers. Loved it so much I kept it for me;)

Altered CD created for ArteDar's CD Swap. Uses Graphic 45 On the Boardwalk papers, and molding paste, and Lumiere paints- all my favorites.

Card created for CreativelyChloe (Dayle) as part of the 31 Day Featured artist series, and for a card contest at a local crop.

Scrabble tile necklaces made as gifts for friends, and swap hostesses using Steampunk Debutante,and Le Romantique Graphic 45 papers.

Creations using Le Cirque Graphic 45 papers- Dressform and Fabrege style egg,and Pinwheel, Le Romantique- Fairy bottle, and On the Boardwalk- FlipFlop box.
(photography was difficult, hope you do not mind the videos)

So, this is a sampling of my projects that I have created over the last 45 days or so all using Graphic 45 papers. I find the papers very beautiful, and inspirational. I appreciate the opportunity to enter for a Design Team position.

Hugs,

Update and so grateful....

2011-02-25T18:24:00.002-05:00

Hello Friends!

I have been super busy, but a lot of great things have been happening for me lately, and I wanted to mention how grateful I am for everyone's support. They say you get by with a little help from your friends, and in my case it is so true....

After the 31 day challenge completion, of a video a day, a project a day, and the mail still pending, I took a break, and re-evaluated my goals. I decided I wanted to pursue becoming a Design Team Member, and I went to my favorite products and stores, and made a few submissions. I am waiting for the results of a few, but I was so fortunate that my frame of the wonderful Tim Holtz, that I entered in the Lindy Stamp Gang contest, was a WINNER! Wow! and not only that, the wonderful company that they are, Lindy Stamp Gang invited me to join their Design Team. WOWSERS!

I am still on the ceiling from this past week. Thank you so much my friends. With your support anything is possible. I truly, truly appreciate it.

So, I am in awesome talented company, and I love, love, love Lindy's products, so it was kismet. I still can't believe it.

If you are not familiar with Lindy Stamp Gang, you are missing out. Go check them out, affordable sprays, micas and embossing powders, in fabulous two tones, and I am sure I am just touching the surface. I started using Lindy sprays as a way to color my coffee filter flowers, that was more affordable than..ahem Glimmer Mist. Check out the Money Saving Sets in Starburst Sprays, you will not be disappointed.

www.lindystampgang.com

Hugs,

Lindy's Stamp Gang and a Happy Day!!!

2011-02-19T19:51:00.008-05:00

Hi Bloggers!

I know I have not been around since vacation. Really been busy with travel for work, and my day job. Just wanted to share a quick story and thank you, as well as my project for the Lindy Stamp Gang Contest.

Remember my Featured Artist Series? Well Tim Holtz was my Day 11 Artist, and at the time, I did not think I would be able to send his tag to him. My wonderful friend Clare, in the UK was attending a class that Tim was having, and she offered to present my tag to him. So, I mailed it over. That very night I heard from Tim Holtz directly, and was so panicked that I made another tag and sent that to him as well.

Anyway, the class was this week, and Clare gave Tim my tag. And she snapped apicture of him for me holding my art! What a total thrill. I am too happy for words.

Here is the picture:

So I wanted to make a frame for it. And another of my favorite companies was having a contest so here is what I created:

I used a cheap Dollar store frame which I colored using Lindy Stamp Gang Products. I used Moon Shadow mist in Crow's Nest Copper, Golden Doubloons, and Bucanneer Bay Blue. I also used Lindy's Starburst Spray in Hydrangea Blue. This was supposed to be about your favorite colors, so Copper Blue and Brown(currently). And I went ahead and added all of my favorite things: Tim Holtz, his products feathers, and a Prima spray I had hoarded forever. The little bird is K & Co, and there is tissue tape also colored with Lindy's Stamp Gang on the frame.

I love their products, so affordable and they are having a big sale!!! check them out:
www.lindystampgang.com

So this contains all my favorites! Thanks Tim! Thanks Clare!

Big Hugs everyone!

Vacation...........

2011-02-13T17:57:00.003-05:00

Hello Bloggers,

Well, today I returned home from a great vacation with a good friend, and a wonderful week full of lots of introspection,reflection,art, and recharging the batteries.

and driving, lots of driving....

It was so nice to get away and see my good friend Paula, do some art shopping, visit my old friend Brenda, meet my new friend Sue, and tour several stamp/scrapbooking stores, The biggest baddest Michael's store I have ever seen, and make a trip to my first Blick's store ever.

Getting away made me realize how grateful I am for everything I have at home. My wonderful Keith, my great Mom and Dad, a cuddly Geddy cat, a job I truly enjoy, and my art supplies. Grateful is the word to describe it for sure.

After all the miles, laughs, talks, and shopping, it feels good to be home.

I had a blast, learned so very much about paints, pencils, techniques, the internet, twitter, personalities, places, my goals, and so much more. Paula, thank you for your wonderful company, and opening my eyes to so much great art, and laughter.

Off to create dinner, clean laundry, and maybe a little art later......

Hugs,

31 Day Challenge Day 31 Featured Artist Marion(APieceofCraft)

2011-01-30T20:41:00.003-05:00

Hi Everyone!

Welcome to Day 31 of my Pay it Forward Featured Artist Series. Todays featured Artist is.... Marion (APieceofCraft).

Well bloggers, I cannot believe it has been 31 days of videos and blog posts. I have enjoyed the process so very much.

I would be remiss if I did not feature Marion Smith. She has inspired me for a very long time, and the 31 days, 31 goals, 31 videos challenge was her creation. I started watching Marion's video's a long time ago. I do not believe sh had any of her children yet, but perhaps one. She and her husband were creating fabulous kits and selling them from her blog, long before I had any idea what a blog really was. I loved her style of design, and still do. I watched her develop as an artist and grow as a scrapbooker. She was always very encouraging, a great teacher, and just plain fun.

Then came Ustream, and Marion was the very first Ustream show I ever watched. I loved seeing what she would come up with. Now a designer for Prima, and launching her own product line, I can't help but feel so proud of her. I was there from the beginning!

You can find Marion here:
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/APieceofCraftdotcom
UStream:http://www.ustream.tv/channel/a-piece-of-craft
Website:http://www.marionsmithdesigns.com/
Etsy:http://www.etsy.com/shop/APieceofCraftdotcom
Than you so very much Marion for challenging me, inspiring me and helping me grow in my art. I am very, very grateful.

Below is a little video of something I made for Marion:

Big Hugs,

1/30/11 31 Day Challenge Day 30 Featured Artist Carlene(PinkScrapper99)

2011-01-30T14:18:00.006-05:00

Hi Everyone!

Welcome to day 30 of my 31 day challenge Pay it forward featured Artist Series. Today's featured artist is ...Carlene (PinkScrapper99).

I first was introduced to Carlene via YouTube, a while back. It is hard for me to remember from where, but I think it may have been Gina Scrappinology on You Tube.
I started watching her videos, and I loved how she re-purposed items to turn them into wonderful and useful works of art. I have seen her alter everything from a pringles can to a mailbox.

She is a very creative lady, a wonderful spirit, and extremely sharing. She has a great store where she offers all of the best name products, at affordable prices, and she takes Customer Service very seriously.

You can find Carlene here:
YouTube:http://www.youtube.com/user/pinkscrapper99
Blog:http://pinkscrappersboutique.blogspot.com/
Store:http://www.pinkscrappersboutique.com/categories/PRODUCT-PRE%252dORDERS/

So be sure to check her out. She is just a great gal! Below is a video of my creation for Carlene:

Have fun at CHA! Hug Tim Holtz for me!

Hugs,

31 Day Challenge Day 29 Featured Artist Dale(CreativelyChloe)

2011-01-30T13:47:00.004-05:00

Hello Everyone!

Welcome to day 29 of my Pay it forward Featured Artist Series. Today's featured artist is...Dale (CreativelyChloe).

I first met and started following Dale about three months ago. I was referred to her via Bona, and a card drive Dale was putting together, that really touched my heart. Since my 31 day challenge is all about Paying it Forward, I had to tell you about Dale, and her selfless, caring wonderful spirit. To learn more about the card drive, please refer to my blog post : I heart Bebe Card Drive and reflections, from October 2010.

Since first meeting Dale, and sharing our sorrow over our furry loved ones, I have come to love to watch her videos on everything from cards, to hauls, to mini books. She is a wonderful creative spirit, and I encourage you to check her out, and participate in her card drive, which is still going on. Be sure to consult her blog for the card specifications, as they are special.

Dale is a very talented artist. Yesterday I was attending a local crop to benefit a nursery school in my area, and they gave us a card contest. As I was there, and visiting with old friends, making new ones, and thinking about people and things, I got to thinking about how time flies. I created the card in the video with this sentiment in mind, and it occurred to me, that it had been 2 1/2 years since I let Scotia go. That led me to thinking about Dale. I hope you are well my friend. I hope you enjoy the card I created using my favorite paper from 2010 G45 Steampunk Debutante.

I think it is important to recognize and remember how fleeting time is, and hold those that touch your heart close to you. No matter if they are furry or not....

You can find Dale here:
You Tube: http://www.youtube.com/user/CreativelyChloe
Blog:http://creativelychloe.blogspot.com/

Thank you Dale for all you share with all of us. You are a true inspiration to me.

Hugs,

1/28/11 31 Day Challenge Featured Artist ...Jo (Paperdrama)

2011-01-30T11:14:00.002-05:00

Hi everyone!

Welcome to day 28 of my Pay it Forward, 31 day Featured artist challenge. Today's featured artist is....Jo(Paperdrama).

I was referred to Jo's Youtube channel via Arlene and Bona, a while ago. I am very glad to have found her channel, and get to see what she creates. Jo has a very playful aesthetic. She loves the bling, and is a very creative scrapper. I have seen her make mini albums, embellishments, altered items of all kinds, and share her organizational tips for scrap supplies. She is super talented, and her creations show a certain patience, that I aspire to achieve.

Jo is a great friend to all, and shares her talents so freely. I really love her spirit,as she is genuinely kind. It shows in her artwork.

You can find Jo here:

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/paperdrama

Blog: http://www.paperdrama.blogspot.com/

Jo is a member of Lindy's Stamp Gang Design Team, and has formerly served on design teams for Cookbookin',The Cutting Cafe and Scrapping Lounge. She is a wonderfully creative gal. You should check her out!

I recently watched a video where Jo shared some of her favorite thins, and owls were among them. So, here is a little something I created for Jo:

Thank you so much Jo for everything you share!

Hugs,

1/27/11 31 Day Challenge Featured Artist Jules (jannaviles)

2011-01-27T18:05:00.004-05:00

Hi Everyone!

Welcome to day 27 of my Featured Artist 31 day challenge! Today's featured artist is...Jules(jannaviles).

I have been a long time follower of Jules over on YouTube. I found her a while back, and was just really touched by the content of her creations. Her heart really shows through on her creations. She has fantastic ideas, and is so giving to the art community. Such was the case when she organized a card drive for Claudia66, after the tragic sudden loss of her husband. Jules had the idea, get cards sent in for a drive, package them up and sell them out of her store. All proceeds went to Ms. Claudia. Paying kindness forward personified. I loved it, and I made cards and sent them in.

Jules channel is filled with everything from haul videos to her new to scrapbooking technique tutorials, to her creations. She also has a small store called The Jule Box on her blog, where she offers tons of die-cuts, laces, trims and kits. In every video her heart shines through, really wanting to grow the art community, and share her love of paper arts.

You can find Jules:

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/jannaviles
Blog: http://www.thejulebox.com/

I truly encourage you to go and check her out. She is such a warm soul, who is very creative, and loves to share.

So today, I wanted to make something different, and my stick pin supply was running low, so I though Jules would like some.

Here is a video of what I created for Jules:

Thank you so much Jules!

Hugs,

1/26/11 31 Day Challenge Featured Artist Series Beatriz (Iralamija)

2011-01-27T13:09:00.004-05:00

Hi Everyone!

Welcome to day 26 of my featured artist series. Today's featured artist is... Beatriz (Iralamija)

This challenge to pay it forward to others has been really good for me. It has stretched me to think of who has inspired my art and taught me a lot. With so many different styles, and my tastes changing and developing over the years, it has also reintroduced me to a lot of special, talented artists.

One such artist is Beatriz Jennings, known to most of you as iralamija. I have been a follower of her blog for several years. I have watched as Bety launched her etsy store, became published in several publications, and as her shabby chic style has influenced and inspired many.

Bety is extremely talented. She takes vintage images, and transforms them into beautiful cards. She has a very vintage shabby chic aesthetic, and has in my mind become the master card maker of this style.

Her blog posts show how creative she is, but also how warm and caring she is. She shares with her followers her creations so readily, and has been inspiring me for several years.

I do not see that Bety has a YouTube channel, but you can find her on her blog and etsy shop using the links below:

Blog: http://iralamija.blogspot.com
Etsy:http://www.etsy.com/people/iralamijashop

Be sure to check her out.
In this video I am showing some cards that I made following Bety's inspiration:

Thank you Bety for all your inspiration! I love your work, as you can see I made the cards in the video in April of 2009.

Hugs,

1/25/11 31 Day Challenge Day 25 Featured Artist Natasha(Enastasia)

2011-01-25T21:52:00.004-05:00

Hi Everyone!

Welcome to Day 25 of my Pay it Forward, Featured Artist Challenge. Todays featured artist is....Natasha (Enastasia).

So, I am a member of YourPaperPantry.ning.com. I had signed up for a swap, to create a tinnie, an altered altoid tin. It was my very first time doing one, and I had not even checked who my partner was. Well, My partner was Natasha, someone I have followed for a long time over on her blog. Once I learned who it was, I quickly subscribed to her on YouTube. She makes beautiful things, and like me is a Tim Holtz fan. She makes great projects, mini books and all sorts of things. She also does some great comparison videos over on her channel. The sort of thing comparing glues, etc.

She is so very nice, and as it turns out I knew her! So below is a video showing my tinnie, and also a tag I created for her.

Thank you Natasha for all you create and share. I am so glad I found you again.

You can find Natasha here:

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/Enastasia#p/u
Blog: http://cleversoiree.blogspot.com/

She is also on Facebook.

Hugs,

100th video upload to YouTube

2011-01-25T21:46:00.003-05:00

Wowsers!

I cannot believe I have uploaded 100 videos to YouTube!

Thank you everyone for your wonderful comments, and support!

To celebrate, I am doing a little giveaway....

Leave a comment on the video over at YouTube to be entered for a chance to win the French Market Tim Holtz Stamp Set. Yu must also be a subscriber to my YouTube channel which is...Scotia9338.

Thanks for watching everyone.

Hugs,

1/24/11 31 Day Challenge Featured Artist Nancy(GoinCriCrazy)

2011-01-25T10:14:00.004-05:00

Hi Everyone!

Welcome to Day 24 of my Pay it Forward, Featured Artist Series. Today's Artist is...Nancy (GoinCriCrazy).

I truly believe in Paying it Forward. It is not just an adage to me. I believe if you do good things and put out kindness into the world, it comes back to you.
Nancy reinforced my beliefs with a kindness she did for me, and I just cannot thank her enough!

So enough about me! Nancy is a wonderful person and artist I recently started following over on YouTube. Once I did, I quickly learned that we are very similar. We both adore Tim Holtz, we both are members of Your Paper Pantry, we both follow similar people, and we seem to like similar things. Nancy is a very talented lady who I recently saw do a series of videos on using the Melting Pot, and casting molds and such. She was a thrifty shopper, and found a more affordable product to use in place of the mold n pour product to create molds. The Amazing Putty. Good Show Nancy! One of the reasons I do not cast as often is the expense of the other stuff. She also has done videos about mini books, and her other creations. She is a participant in the 31 day challenge as well.
You can find Nancy here:

YouTube:http://www.youtube.com/user/GoinCriCrAzY
Blog: http://www.letstalkexpression.blogspot.com/

The name of Nancy's blog is actually For the Love of Tim, so I thought I would make her a little Thank you valentine tag:

Thanks for all you share Nancy! Keep on creating!

Hugs,

1/23/11 31 Day Challenge Featured Artist Rita(Rita HutchesonCobbs)

2011-01-23T21:45:00.003-05:00

Hello Everyone!

Welcome to day 23 of my 31 day Featured Artist Challenge. I sure am having fun paying it forward. Today's artist is...Rita (RitaHutchesonCobbs).

Rita is just a wonderful person. She is so warm and welcoming, and one of the very first people I met on Ustream. She has an infectious hearty laugh, and she is multi talented. Rita works in paper, paint, fibers, recycled materials, and makeup. She also is a stamper, which as you know is very Close to My Heart...ahem.

She has a wonderful creative spirit, and shares readily. You have to go and check her out. She can be found:

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/RitaHutchesonCobbshttp://www.youtube.com/user/RitaHutchesonCobbs

Blog: http://www.ritahutchesoncobbs.info/site/

Here is a video of a little box and mini I created for Rita:

Love you and your work Rita! Keep on creating! Can't wait to see what you do next.

Hugs,

Off on a tangent....

2011-01-23T12:21:00.002-05:00

So today I am feeling a little blue, and I felt the need to address a situation that has been occurring for a long time. As many of you know, I moderate a few shows over on Ustream. Well, there has been a group of people attempting to ruin the community over there. Are they overtly attempting to ruin it? No. But they are. The behavior of a few is making a whole lot of people very uncomfortable. Yesterday, I unfortunately had to take a stand in an effort to protect the peaceful sharing community.

I for one, hate drama. I do not say a lot publicly, and I try to be fair and give folks generally enough rope to hang themselves. But when slander on other social networking sites of individuals who are caring, is the forum that is chosen for these cyber bullies to mount a defense, well that just gives me the red ass.

I appreciate that there are people in the world, whose entire life and friendships take place on the internet. I also appreciate, that people are entitled to their opinions, and many have lives that are not happy, affected by illness, or depression, and generally poor social skills. I can choose not to be around them, or help where I can. In a community such as Ustream, these options are limited, as it is a public forum, where a mere sign up is all it takes for people to interact. Generally it is a good thing. But there are a few, trying to take the spotlight 100% of the time and using abuse of the rules of the broadcasters, as a means to their end.
It is not cool. Even if I consider all I have stated previously, you need to be respectful. You need to honor the requests of the broadcaster in their show and behave. Good fun is always welcome. A good joke makes us all laugh. But to shamelessly promote a business, not endorsed by the broadcaster, or to consistently use foul language, talk politics or political opinion, air discriminatory views, direct message others in a bullying fashion, threaten in any way, or make others feel ostracized , should not happen.

And it will not happen on my watch. If I am your moderator, I am protecting your show and your integrity. I have no tolerance for people who try and make a public showing all about them. Get your own show for that, and say whatever you want. I do not have to be there.

I am new to the Social Networking world of Twitter, and do not profess to know much about it. From what I have seen, some people use it for bad not good. To publicly deface someone, for your bad behavior, again is not cool. If you are a friend of mine, I can only take so much. I am going to stand up for my friends, when I feel it is justified.

So my friends, if you saw me involved in an exchange on Twitter, that did not sound like me, please know, I had enough. Believe me, my fuse is very long, and it had burned to it's end. I do feel badly for these individuals, and I wish them no harm. I simply want them to leave me and my friends and our community on Ustream, alone.

The ganging up, piling on, whining, crying and general sophomoric behavior will not be tolerated in my show or my friends shows. If you cannot play nice, do not come to these shows at all, because you will be banned upon arrival. I have been patient, explained until I am blue in the face, and truly very sad that it turned out this way. But you did it to yourself.

I am sure everyone knows who I am addressing, so I will not name names. I will not stoop to the public defacing level that they have. I have one thing to say, GROW UP! and PLAY NICE!.

So thanks for taking the time to read this post. I hope it answers any questions you have about recent events. Also, if see some crap about me on any of these sites, think twice before you believe it. I have a good reputation as a supporter of the art community, as do those I associate with. Don't let a few people who took it too far, change your opinion about the group. If you have concerns or questions, feel free to contact me. I welcome your comments.

Hugs,

1/22/11 Featured Artist... Less(ComfortableShoesStudio)

2011-01-22T20:30:00.005-05:00

Hi Everyone!

Welcome to day 22 of my Pay it Forward Featured Artist Series. Today's featured artist is...Less Herger (ComfortableShoesStud).

Leslie is someone who not only inspires me, but gives me confidence to try new mediums, and learn new things. She is an amazingly talented, encouraging and supportive teacher. You really should check out her work on YouTube, Her website and her ning site. She shares so very much, and is really all about growing the art community.

I have been fortunate to see Leslie on Ustream, and read the E-Zine, and participate in her Ning site. I love her videos on YouTube, because there is always a cool technique or something explained. I have begun to learn about paints from Leslie, and she really makes it easy to understand.
You can find Leslie:
YouTube:http://www.youtube.com/comfortableshoesstud
UStream:http://www.ustream.tv/channel/comfortableshoesstudio-com
Blog: http://comfortableshoesstudio.com/
Ning: http://artjournaling.ning.com/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/lessherger

So, Less this little tag is a tribute to you coupled with a big Thank you for all you have taught me.

Thanks for all you share!

Hugs,

1/21/11 Featured Artist Day 21 -Jonathan (TheArtisticBiker)

2011-01-22T09:42:00.002-05:00

Hello Everyone!

Welcome to day 21 of my 31 day challenge. Today's featured artist is Jonathan (TheArtisticBiker).

I fist met Jonathan via my good friend Paula(Journal Artista). Jonathan is an extremely talented art journaler primarily, although he works in many mediums. He amazes me with his ability to just draw and paint so easily. Something that I aspire to do.

Jonathan and his wife are in the process of opening an Art Studio in his town, where people from the community can come and take lessons, enjoy a gallery and be creative. They have named it Oasis Studios. Jonathan also writes for the Art Journaling E-zine, and is a regular in the artjournaling.ning.com community, as well as was a teacher in 21 Secrets online art journaling course. Best of all, he hosts a Ustream Show on Thursday nights from his studios that encourages everyone to create in their art journal and he is a fantastic teacher. One of his favorite mediums to use is Spray paint.

Jonathan can be found everywhere online. Here are some links:

Twitter:http://twitter.com/Blade21292
YouTube:http://www.youtube.com/user/TheArtisticBiker
UStream:http://www.ustream.tv/user/Blade21292
Blog:http://www.artisticbiker.com/

Jonathan, I just wanted to say Than you for all that you share and how you tirelessly promote the Ustream Art Community. Here is a little something I made for you to hang in your studio window...

Hugs,

1/19/11 Featured Artist Series Darlene(Artedar)

2011-01-19T15:46:00.000-05:00

Hi Everyone!

Welcome to day 19 of my Featured Artisit series! Today's featured artist is...Darlene (Artedar).

Dar is a magical artist. She makes things that I can only imagine! And she makes it look effortless. All the while encouraging you to try it too! I first met Darlene on Ustream, via my good friend Paula's show. She would come and be so supportive. I later found out we are practically neighbors, as Dar lives 30 minutes south of me.

Recently Dar started making videos, and is just starting on Ustream as well. Through most of her videos, she shows art that she created, or received from swaps she participated in. On a recent Ustream broadcast she showed how to make a purse from a book. just amazing. So you can guess from my description, Dar is a mixed media artist. She loves to alter things, and create art dolls. She has shown so many rich ideas for altering items from bottles, to cd's, to a rolodex, to making a shrine from an altoids tin. I could go on and on.

Dar is vividly creative, in everything she takes on. If you need to jump start your imagination to create a new project, go to Dar's channel. You will see some fabulous things, and probably won't know where to start!

Dar is an excellent teacher as well. I did have to re watch her Ustream to get the purse down, but she is encouraging, and really gives you the confidence to take on new projects. Dar does everything, altered art, drawing, painting, stamping, she probably sews. I know she teaches from time to time at a Michael's store in her area.

You can find Dar on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/ArteDar
and on Ustream: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/artedar-s-crop-and-random-art-projects

So Dar, keep it going! We always want to see you create more! Your art is beautiful, and you share it so openly. I thought since we both have a love of steampunk, I would make you a tag. I hope you display it and enjoy it in your artroom.

I hope to see many more videos from you, and thank you for all of your support of me, and my art. Also, we have to make the shopping happen, neighbor!

Hugs,

1/20/11 Featured Artist Series Lilly(MsScrappinGal)

2011-01-18T16:14:00.003-05:00

Hi Everyone!

Welcome to day 20 of my Featured Artist, pay it forward challenge.

Today's artist is...Lilly (Msscrappingal).

Here is another AMAZING talent for you at a young age. I first started watching Lilly's videos over on YouTube a few years ago. She was my very first subscriber. The beauty and patience she puts into each of her projects is just amazing. Certainly, something I did not learn until I was at least twice her age.

Lilly makes cards, mini books, beautiful embellishments that she sells on her blog store here:

http://www.sweetpeascrapbooking.com/

and Lily is just getting started in Copic coloring, which is sure to be awesome, like everything else she does.

Lily's YouTube channel here: http://www.youtube.com/user/MsScrappinGal

She is such a truly talented young artist, and shares her joy and works very readily. Check out her blog and store, love the tiny aluminum roses!

Lily, Thank you so much for all you share with all of us. I created a tag for you which you can see in the video below:

Hugs,

1/18/11 Featured Artist Christina (Chris416ward)

2011-01-18T15:22:00.005-05:00

Hi Everyone!

Welcome to day 18, of my 31 day pay it forward challenge. I hope you are enjoying these tributes as much as I am! Today's featured artist is...Christina known by Creations with Christina in many circles.

I first found Christina on YouTube a few years back when I was interested in making videos myself. I believe I found her through Robyn My Pink Stamper. I love watching Christina's videos, because I find her to be a lot like me. She likes to shop for a good bargain, and her creations run from cards to 3-D items, to home decor, to mini albums. She seems to like everything, just like I do. She also seems to like a lot of the same products that I do as well. She serves on a few design teams for companies like Lindy's Stamp Gang, and the Cutting Cafe. Christina also posted a few videos regarding events she attended in the somewhat local to me area, so I was thrilled to learn that she lives in Pennsylvania, and that I might be able to use some of her shopping tips.

One of the first things I saw Christina do was her Cricut cartridge series. She takes you through each icon, and such of a cricut cartridge to help you see what the cartridge can do, and also to help you learn your Cricut machine. She did a very helpful series on the Gypsy, which I was eager to see following the receipt of mine as a Christmas gift this year. Her series saved me tons of time and frustration in learning a new tool, and she is such a great teacher. Also, I wanted to mention, a darn lot of time and work goes into a Cricut cartrige series. The carts are jammed packed, and Christina has done four that I know of, possible more. I want to Thank her for her commitment, because the series really helped me.

If you are interested in learning more about your Gypsy, your Cricut, and many other products, I encourage you to visit Christina on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/Chris416ward

Christina also has a very informational blog:http://www.creationswithchristina.com/

I just think she is awesome! She has helped me figure out the techie side of my tools, and made me want to try new things. I really enjoy all of her projects, as they are always fresh, and creative. She is such a good teacher too.

I heard Christina mention that green was her favorite color, and that she seems to enjoy coloring with copics, so I thought I would make her a tag. I am going to try and use my Cricut for the die -cuts, via my Gypsy, just to see how much I have learned.

Thank you Christina for making my crafting more enjoyable via your awesome tutorials. I can't thank you enough for all that you share. You inspired me to start making videos, and now I am conducting classes on Ustream! You should check it out!

Hugs,

1/17/11 Featured Artist .... Laura( Followthe PaperTrail)

2011-01-16T22:11:00.005-05:00

Hi Everyone!

Welcome to day 17 of my Featured Artist, Pay it forward series. Today's featured artist is...Laura (FollowthePaperTrail).

I first found Laura on YouTube through an AMAZING halloween mini she designed. Since that time, I never miss a video. Yesterday I mentioned the term "paper engineer". That is Laura to a tee. She thinks inside and outside the box. She thinks all around the box. Her mind just amazes me. You have heard that scrapbookers look at things a little differently? Well, no one looks at things the way Laura does. ( I mean that in the most positve sense). She can take a simple envelope, and have you transforming it into a book, in an hour.

If you are searching for mini ideas, Laura is the gal to see. If you need a nifty seasonal Home Decor item, see Laura. I could go on and on and on.

Since I first started watchig her on YouTube, Laura has progressed ten fold to classes and kits, Ustream shows, fantastic directions for sale, and designing for Tim Holtz's CHA booth.( My dream job...)

She is a very positive person, easy with a laugh, a great teacher, and her stuff is really fantastic. I strongly encourage you to check her out.

You can find Laura on YouTube Here:http://www.youtube.com/user/FollowThePaperTrail
On Ustream Here:http://www.ustream.tv/channel/http-ustream-tv-channel-followingthepapertrail
On her Blog here:http://www.followingthepapertrail.blogspot.com/
On Etsy here:http://www.etsy.com/shop/followthepapertrail

Laura also has a Ning site: http://followingthepapertrail.ning.com/?xg_source=badge
It is intimidating to try and figure out something to make for her. She is one of the masters! So I went with one of my favorites, a tag.

Laura, Thank you for all you share and create, and that you share it with all of us. I cannot Thank you enough for everything you have taught me.

Hugs,

1/16/11- 31 Day Challenge Featured Artist...Kathy (kathyorta)

2011-01-16T11:09:00.005-05:00

Hi Party People!

Welcome to day 16 of my featured artist series, pay it forward challenge. Today's featured artist is...Kathy Orta, also known in many circles as Paper Phenomenon.

What a perfect name, because wow! she really is! I first started following a few years back when I began in the blogging and video world. I was having problems with an upgrade to insert videos into my blog posts, and reached out to Kathy, and she helped me out. I gravitated toward Kathy at that time for several reasons. 1)She lives in an area of Florida where I used to live, so I was familiar with her stomping ground, and amazed at the kits she put together. 2.) The woman is a paper engineer! She can create a mini from scratch at the drop of a hat. Shapes too, it is really a joy to watch. 3.) How can you not love someone who is exuberant, fun and calls you a PITA Babe?

I have watched as she has created shaped mini's, three dimensional objects, such as a clock, a dresser, I think even a valentine's day heart shaped candy box! There is nothing, literally nothing, she can't figure out how to make out of paper. And she shares it so openly in a fun environment.

So I was a bit stumped as to what to make for her. I thought to keep it simple, and use her favorite paper collection from 2010, the Mariposa line. I created a mini album, that is a Laura Dennison design,(another gal with mad skills), using this paper. I hope Kathy likes it!

You can find Kathy on YouTube:http://www.youtube.com/user/kathyorta
On Ustream: http://www.ustream.tv/user/PaperPhenomenon
On Her Blog:http://www.paperphenomenon.blogspot.com/

I can't thank Kathy enough for all that she has brought to the crafting community. Her passion, and vivacious personality, and her skills. I thank her for all she shares, and has taught me. Be sure to check her out! She is so Fun!

Hugs,

1/15/11 31 Day Challenge.. Featured Artist...Paula (JournalArtista)

2011-01-15T18:41:00.004-05:00

Hello Everyone!

Welcome to day 15 of my 31 day Pay it forward challenge. Today's featured artist is...Paula Phillips (JournalArtista)

Wow, where do I begin? I owe a lot of Thanks and gratitude to Paula,as through her I have met many people and things. She showed me a new style of art, and all of the wonderful people in the art community, over on Ustream, and Youtube. I am very proud to call her my good friend.

And Mad Skills? Paula has them in droves! Have you seen the Winter edition of Art Journaling magazine? Well, Paula is a featured artist in the winter 2011 edition, and wrote a great article to go along with her 8 page spread of her journal pages.

Are you on the ArtJournaling.ning.com? If not you should be. Paula has tons of content over there, including the cover of the art journaling zine, put out by a select group of artist's from the ning.

Did you join 21 secrets? 21 Secrets was a web based class presenting 21 different artists, going over 21 different styles, techniques and classes. Paula did a segment on windows and doors.

Have you checked out Ustream yet? Paula gives you a great excuse to. Every Wednesday at Saturday nights at 9:00pm EST, you will find Paula sharing from her art desk her latest pages. http://www.ustream.tv/channel/journalartista

Tonight is a special night. Paula is having a party of sorts as she is in her art room for the first time, and also will be giving away a fabulous book.

Are you on YouTube? Paula is, and here she is sharing instructional videos, organizational videos and a lot of fun. http://www.youtube.com/user/JournalArtista
Paula is celebrating her 100th video upload today. You will find lots of content for many mediums here.

Do you follow blogs? You should follow Paula's to see what she will do next! http://messymindcreativesoul.blogspot.com

So, Paula is everywhere, including Twitter and Facebook, as JournalArtista.

She has made me appreciate so many forms of art, and people. She started out as a scrapbooker, stamper and has now unified the scrapbooking community with Art Journaling. Now every scrapper wants their own set of Golden acrylic paints and a journal to call their own. She gave us all confidence to try the new, and to grow our community. She is a wonderful, funny loving spirit, and my very good friend. I am too grateful for words. Big Hugs Paula.

Below is a video of a little something I created for Paula to use in her new art space.

Be sure to check Paula out everywhere! She is super talented, and I love her bunches!

Hugs,

1/14/11 31 Day Challenge Featured Artist...Sharon(NJGardengirl1961)

2011-01-14T21:21:00.004-05:00

Hi Everyone!

Welcome to day 14 of my pay it forward 31 day challenge. Today's featured artist is...Sharon (NJGardengirl1961).

SO you ever meet someone and just click? Either online or in person? Well that certainly describes Sharon and me. Sharon and I met on YouTube and through a common friend Paula (JournalArtista). Having the Garden State in common opened the door. Jersey people are like that, and I am so glad.

Sharon does not show much of her art. She is a member over at YourPaperPantry.ning.com, and I know she makes some amazing mini books. She has done tutorials on making her "baked tags" awesome, and also organizing her craft space. I have had the pleasure of her company on the famed Buffalo trip, and she is incredibly funny, down to earth, and a true friend. She is also very talented, and shy about it. She has the "Mad" skills she described me as having. Sometimes folks are perfectionists, and shy to show thier stuff. I am hoping with this public nudge, Sharon will post some videos of her art.

Sharon has fantastic taste. Believe me I have shopped with her. I know her future plans include kit sales on her blog or etsy, and guys they are sure to be fabulous!

I have sent Sharon tags and such in the past, and I had a little package going out to her, so I thought I would make a little something she can take apart and use if she wants. Below is the video of a little gift I made for Sharon.

So keep watching her, she is a wonderful, talented, great soul, who just keeps on giving, and I am happy to call her my friend.

Link to Sharon's YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/NJGardengirl1961

Hugs,

1/21/11 Featured Artist Day 13- Kerri (ikerrilove)

2011-01-13T23:00:00.004-05:00

Hi Everyone!

Thank you for all of your lovely comments here and over at YouTube. I love getting your feedback.

Today's featured artist is my good friend....Kerri.

I just adore Kerri. She is relatively new to the art world again, she will tell you. I don't see it. She loves learning new things and is so fearless in her art. She is very meticulous as well. She was one of the famed "Buffalo" girls on our October trip, and she can Copic color really well.

So she claims to be a newbie, and if she is , she has me fooled. Her pages in her art journal are beautiful. What I like about her most is she is fearless. She will try anything in her journal. She is learning all about cards, and we have cropped a bit together on skype, she catches on quick!
Kerri really likes ATC's and postcards, so I made a few( my first time) with her help live on my Ustream show a few weeks ago. I thought she might like to have them. Since I was learning, and she claims to be the newbie..well it just fit.

You can find Kerri on Ustream at 8PM EST Fridays:http://www.ustream.tv/channel/the-junque-studio

Over on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/ikerrilove#p/p

or on her blog: http://ikerrilove.blogspot.com/

She is such a warm caring soul. and I am so happy to call her my friend.

Check her out!

Hugs,

1/12/11 31 Day Challenge Featured Artist...Angie Kennedy Juda (ChicnScratch)

2011-01-12T20:19:00.003-05:00

Welcome to Day 12 of my 31 day pay it forward challenge....today's featured artist is...Angie Kennedy Juda.

I love all kinds of art. From stamping projects, to sewn items, from steampunk to sweet. There is room in my studio for many kinds of art. Today I would like to tell you about Angie Kennedy Juda, and how she inspired me.

Angie is a very successful Stampin Up! demonstrator. I found her as one of the very first people I ever subscribed to on YouTube. Her YouTube name is.. Chicnscratch. At the time I was toying with becoming a demo myself, but work commitments prohibited me at the time. I later did sign up, and I am still a "hobby" demo today. When I first started watching Angie, she simplified things for me. She showed me wonderful stamps and techniques, and boxes...Angie is all about the boxes. She showed me that with a little ingenuity, I too could create some of the sweet projects she shows.

One of the first videos I keyed in on, was "How to use a Fiskers Trimmer". It sounds awful, but I had trouble reading a ruler down to 16th's for a long time. Angie went over the small measurements on the trimmer, and assured me I was doing it properly. In later years I learned I was not the only one who had this problem when I started doing classes myself.

She showed me so many easy ways to prepare for a class, teach a project, and use my supplies. Her influence and videos really moved me forward in stamping. Whenever I need a little box, or vintagey cute card, I look up Angie's blog.

Angie has also developed herself. Now a demonstrator in high status for Nine years..wow! she teaches classes on Ustream, and still continues to share her projects via YouTube. She is an excellent teacher, and I am really grateful to her for all she has put out into the world.

You can find Angie on youTube here: http://www.youtube.com/user/ChicnScratch

and on her blog here: http://chicnscratch.typepad.com/chicnscratchlive/

If you are interested in purchasing Stampin Up! product, you may do so through my online store: http://www.stampinup.net/esuite/home/laureldeviney/

Here is the Fisker's trimmer video from Angie:

Angie has also jumped into quilting using her big shot to cut fabric. So be sure to check out those videos as well.

I have been trying to come up with something that Angie would like. Being such a senior demo, makes it hard for me to come up with a project. I do have some of the current Love Letters DSP that I think she likes a lot...hmmmm.

I will insert a video of what I come up with later.

Go check her out, she is a wonderful, gracious, sharing and talented lady.

Thanks you so much Angie! You gave me the confidence to become a Stampin Up! demo, and I have loved the last three years so much.

Hugs,

1/11/11 31 Day Challenge...Featured Artist... Tim Holtz

2011-01-12T00:22:00.002-05:00

Hello Everyone!

Welcome to day 11 of my featured artist series. Today's artist holds a special place in my heart, as he introduced me to so much. Today's featured artist is the incomparable...Tim Holtz.

So I am sure, if you are part of the YouTube community, or a part of the art community at large, you know who Tim Holtz is. This series would not be complete if I did not take a moment to tell you how Tim has enriched my artistic life.

Where to begin? I first heard of Tim Holtz through a book I saw in a stamp store called Distressables. I thought the book was very inspiring,and it made me see how I could take found objects, and stamps and turn it into another form of art I had never considered. I did not buy the book that day, as I loaded up on inks, archival, and alcohol, and stamps. I ran home to try out this new form of collage-or mixed media. and as they say, the rest is history.

A few years later, I saw Tim on video on YouTube, taken from CHA, and talking about his products with a company from my home state of NJ, Ranger Industries. Could it be that the ins I loved so much came from this company? and they have an annual warehouse sale? It was kismet. I started attending the sale, and have for several years, and each time I went, I was hearing about new Tim product partnerships.

So let me bring you into today. I have long been a fan of everyone of Tim's product lines, from dies, to inks, to embellishments to papers. Yes, I have a book or two and a few drawers lined with his goodies, and more stamps than I can count. I would have a shrine to him, if my husband wouldn't look at me sideways. Today I was lucky enough to have saved my pennies, and I purchased Tim's endorsed Vagabond machine, that die cuts like butter, and cuts everything imaginable. It was an added bonus that the machine looks like a suitcase, and I am in the hotel business. It was made for me.
That is the way I feel about everything he puts his name on, or designs. It was made for me. Tim helped me find my style of art, with a lot of his influence through videos, and blog posts and of course books. He made me into an artist, through rubber stamps, and ink, and gave me the courage to think I could do it too. Guess what he was right. I can create art pieces that I love, everytime I listen to my inner Tim muse.

So, Tim, this is my great big THANK YOU, hug, and " i am not worthy"" bow down to you, all wrapped up into one.

You can find Tim on You Tube: www.youtube.com/user/timholtz

and on his blog:
http://timholtz.typepad.com/

and at a local craft retailer near you. If you come to NJ, just look for me, I am always in the stamp aisle checking out his latest and greatest.

Below is a video of a tag I created using a lot of Tim's products and my favorite sentiment from his stamps.

Hugs,

1/10/11 31 Day Challenge- Featured Artist...Jennifer McGuire(jennifermcguireink)

2011-01-10T20:40:00.004-05:00

Hello Everyone!

Welcome to Day 10,(Wow! already!), of My Pay it Forward 31 Day Featured Artist Series. Today's featured Artist is ....Jennifer McGuire.

Wow! Where do I begin in telling you all about Jennifer. I have watched her for many years. She is a designer for Hero Arts, a former Garden Girl over at www.twopeasinabucket.com, a very gifted, thoughtful and creative artist.

Jennifer taught me so many things. All about Distress inks for one. How to use them in different ways, how to make great background effects with simple supplies. OH! and all about organization! You have to check out her Stamp room....oh my goodness....it is fabulous! Jennifer is the first to admit, this is her job, but the room is organized so well, and she gave me so many ideas for my own little studio.

Whenever I would see Jennifer use a stamp or a product or ink color, I had to have it. She is such an enabler. My husband wants to talk to you too Jennifer! But truly, I gained so much creativity with so many things in my stamping, all because of her. Some of Jennifer's favorite things are, liquid pearls as paint, as embellishment, you name it. That is definately a video to or two to check out.

Jennifer also hosts card drives for sick children, and sends the cards to the families and the kids. Sharing a little love and hope, so awesome.

She is a true artist, from scrapbooking layouts that will make you envious, to very cheerful cards with easy techniques, to all the enabling, she is someone to check out. She was so gracious a few years ago, when I hosted a crop to support a Susan G Komen walk a thon team, she sent prizes and communicated with me, when a lot of other Rock Stars would'nt. She has a beautiful family, an adorable little boy named Colin, who is sometimes stealing the spotlight of her videos.

Thank you so much Jennifer! You gave me confidence to create in a hobby I truly love , and taught me so much.

You can find Jennifer here on her website: http://jennifermcguireink.com/

Here on Two Peas: http://www.twopeasinabucket.com/gallery/projects/designer-projects/_jennifer%20mcguire_/

and here on YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/jennifermcguireink

Below is a video of me fumbling through my favorite technique that I learned from Jennifer.

Hugs,

1/9/11-31 Day Challenge- Featured Artist- Bona (LiveLoveScrap)

2011-01-09T19:05:00.003-05:00

Hi Everyone,

Welcome to day 9 of my 31 day challenge, Pay it forward, and my featured artist of the day is...Bona!

As I am thinking about each artist everyday, it is hard for me to remember when I first started following them. I am sure I have been following Bona for quite a while, and she has taught me so many things, that I am so very grateful for.

Bona was the first person to introduce me to Lindy's Stamp Gang products! Their sprays, and mists have become a staple in my craft room ever since. Bona is a member of their design team, and creates a lot of fantastic projects for them, and shows you many ways to use their products, that you might not have thought of.

Bona is also the great die user. She has shown me ways to engineer paper and my dies, so that I get many uses out of them, not just their intended purpose. I love that she thinks outside the box, and I have learned that trait from her. Loved the scalloped envelope mini in the box Bona! I totally scrap-lifted that idea from you.
She also comes up with many creative mini albums in all shapes and sizes. If you need an idea for a mini, Bona's channel is one to check out!

Bona really likes the shabby chic aesthetic, and for my RAK to her I created two tags on my Ustream show today just for her. A little birdie told me of your love of birdcages, as well, so there is a little added something for you. I show what I created in the video below.

You can find Bona on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/LiveLoveScrap

and on her blog: http://www.keeponscrappin.blogspot.com (Love your background! Great minds think alike!)

Bona, Thank you so much for everything you create and share with all of us! I truly enjoy your videos, and cannot thank you enough.

Hugs,

1/8/11 - Featured Artist- Arlene- Mybutterflykisses12

2011-01-08T16:59:00.004-05:00

Hi Everyone!

Today is day 8 of my 31 day challenge, and today's Featured Artist is....Arlene My butterflykisses12 on YouTube.

Wow! Where can I start to sing Arlene's praises? She gives so much to the community through her techniques, videos, shopping tips, and spirit, it is hard to know where to start.

Arlene is so super talented. She gives so much joy to the community, and creates amazing works of art, regardless of what she takes on. It could be a simple card, but if it was created by Arlene, it has a special touch. Arlene also is a member of a few design teams, Lindy's Stamp Gang, and My Favorite Things Stamps, and has been featured on many blogs and stores as a guest designer such as G45papers.com, and BlueMoonScrapbooking.com

Who could forget the fantastic Steampunk Debutante box she created that was featured on G45 Papers? It was awesome! As is everything she makes.

Here are links to Arlene on YT: www.youtube.com/user/mybutterflykisses12

and her blog: www.butterflykisseswithlove.blogspot.com

You definately want to check her out! She will creating something you have to try or have found a great resource for the product you have to have!

Here is a video I created about what I created to send to Arlene:

Thank you Arlene for all you share, and have taught me! You continue to inspire me with each video.

Hugs,

1/7/11 31 Day Challenge- Day 7- Featured Artist- Rach0113

2011-01-08T16:45:00.004-05:00

Hello Everyone!

Today is day 7 of my 31 day challenge Featured Artist Series. I am happy to introduce you to Rach0113 today.

Rachael is a super talented mixed media artist. Her art takes many many forms. From Tags, to painting, stamping, claywork, and assemblage art. There is really nothing she will not try. And amazing she is.

I am not sure how I found Rachael on Youtube, but once I started watching her videos, I could not stop. Each one regardless of the medium she was using, I found facinating. Sometimes she showed product hauls of things she purchased, and that led me to try out new products, such as Rub N Buff and Fantasy film. She has an amazing sense of color, and design, and a style all her own. I have learned a tremendous amount by watching her videos.

So, Rachael, this is my Thank you to you for all that you have shared, and taught me. Your art gave me courage to try new styles and techniques, store things properly, find out about new companies, and really stretch my creativity. I cannot thank you enough!

Here is a link to Rachael's YouTube site:

http://www.youtube.com/user/RachO113

and here is the video I created talking about her inspiration to me:

Be sure to subscribe to her channel. Be prepared to stay awhile and watch her videos, they are addictive.

Thanks again Rachael! You Rock!

Hugs,

1/6/11-31 Day Challenge- Featured Artist-Robyn-(Robynstamps)

2011-01-06T11:02:00.004-05:00

Hi Everyone!

Today's featured artist is Robyn. Also known to many of you as My Pink Stamper.

I have been watching Robyn for a very long time. Long before her catapult to fame with her product line. I first started watching her, when she first began her videos about using the Cricut. I found her to be very creative, informative, easy to understand, and a lot of fun.

When I began watching her videos, I had just gotten a Baby Bug Cricut, and was pretty confused. She demystified the machine for me, and very soon I was cutting all kinds of images to use in my projects. I would watch her, and heard her mention a company called Stampin Up!. I was intrigued. A company who makes rubber stamps, and paper and inks? Could this be heaven sent? In later years I became a Stampin Up Demonstrator, and I still am. I first heard about the company from Robyn. I was amazed at the projects she created, and how she used the Cricut to make things easier for her. Robyn has a very busy life with four children. I thought, if she could create all of these things with such a busy life, well I had no room to complain, I could do it too. I since have graduated to the Cricut Expression, can't get enough of the cartridges, and have a full fledged stamp addiction. Robyn also evolved, and developed a line of instructional dvd's for Cricut users, her own stamp line, and continues to create daily in her Pink Loft, and soon her Pink Studio.

What I love about Robyn, is through it all, she is the same grounded, cheerful gal who began helping me understand what buttons to push on my Cricut. Although her popularity has risen to millions of hits on her website, she is the same fun girl, who really cares about the artistic community, is a great friend to her bestie Karlee, and really rolls with it all. I am very happy for her success, and wish her every good thing for the future.

You can find Robyn on You Tube here: http://www.youtube.com/user/robynstamps

and on her website here: www.mypinkstamper.com

Be sure to check the retailers section of her website to find out where to purchases her products: dvd's stamps and more!

She is a wonderful, and creative lady. I hope you will continue to support her, you definitely will want to follow her on her website, because she is always expanding her creativity and sharing it with everyone!

Thank you Robyn for helping me to understand my Cricut, introducing me to Stampin Up!, and showing your support through your videos. I cannot thank you enough!

Hugs,

1/4/11- 31 Day Challenge- Featured Artist- Kristina Werner ( StarofMay)

2011-01-04T20:08:00.003-05:00

Welcome to day four of my featured artists challenge! This sure is fun!

So I get asked a lot, How did you start making cards? or How did you figure out how to make videos on YouTube? Well, I blame all this joy and happiness on Kristina.

A few years back, I traveled for work. I would be away from home and my limited craft supplies for a few weeks at a time. I started watching YouTube videos as a means to keep my sanity, from my hotel room. Mondays were always stressful, so every Monday night, after a long and tiring day, there was this bright spot. It was a series called "Make a Card Monday" or MACM for short to all us die-hards, on Kristina's blog and You Tube channel. I cannot tell you what it meant to me. It always made me smile, and think that I could make things like Kristina did. It brought home a little closer to me while I was on the road too.

I remember when the videos were set to music, and all you could see were Kristina's hands. Well, that gave me courage, because I am a very shy person. The videos looked so professional, and she made cards look so easy to make. It was a few years after, that I got up the courage to make my first video, and upload it to YouTube. Now I am nearing 600 subscribers, which still blows me away, and I am totally hooked on stamps, and paper crafting. So I lovingly blame Kristina, for giving me confidence, creativity, and this crazy addiction to the paper craft world. She was my original inspiration.

Kristina has grown in her followers as well. So much so, she has chosen to keep her address private, which I completely understand. So for today's tribute, I will make a card in Kristina style, and mail it off to another of my You Tube friends in the future.

Kristina has continued her Make a Card Monday series, and has added some more things of interest. There are Finally Friday videos of her creations, a virtual card club for a nominal fee, which she uses the proceeds of to keep her blog, and hosting going. Kristina is also a Garden Girl over at www.twopeasinabucket.com and has done a Holiday Card Series for a few years in a row.
She is a wonderful person, a fantastic teacher, and such an inspiration. And she has an adorable cat named Mannie, who reminds me of my Geddy cat.

You definately need to subscribe to her on You Tube :
http://www.youtube.com/user/starofmay

Follow her on her blog: http://www.kwernerdesign.com/blog/

and check out her classes at Two Peas:

http://www.twopeasinabucket.com/userprofile.asp?user_id=219705

You won't want to miss a thing she creates!

Kristina, you are such an inspiration! Thank you so much for everything you gave me courage to create, and become. I am forever in your debt. Big Hugs to you!

Hugs,

31 Day Challenge Featured Artist- Day 5--Drew (CardofmyEye)

2011-01-04T12:11:00.010-05:00

Welcome to Day 5 of my 31 day Challenge. This is getting fun! Lots to take to the post office on Saturday!

Let me tell you about a very talented young man that I discovered on YouTube a few months back. I have watched a few of his Ustreams, and I never miss a YouTube video. His name is Drew and his YouTube channel is: http://www.youtube.com/user/Cardofmyeye

Drew is so talented. I always learn a shortcut or a new idea when I watch his videos, or his live shows. He is also helping me learn the Gypsy. What is really amazing is Drew is only 15 years old. He is definitely on track for a very big career in the crafting world if he so chooses. Maybe the next Tim Holtz?

He puts together cards and mini albums in very creative ways, and is an excellent teacher. He also sells kits a lot on his blog, and hosts lots of swaps. He is very giving back to the crafting community. I loved the story of how he got started. Apparently he saw the Cricut Expression work, thought it was cool, and received one shortly there after, and the rest is beautiful, creative history...

Drew gives a lot of tutorials on his You Tube channel, and does Ustream shows on occasion where he creates projects such as his beautiful mini albums. You will want to follow him, on his blog: www.scrappyhappiness.com
because he is sure to come up with another great idea that will help you to make scrapbooking more enjoyable.

Since he makes mini albums look so effortless, I thought he would enjoy a kit I put together for him . I also created a tag for him, using a lot of Tim Holtz products.

Thank you Drew for your inspiration, and your creativity. I really learn something each time I watch a video.

Hugs,

1/3/11-31 Day Challenge - Featured Artist- Cynthialoowho

2011-01-03T20:41:00.002-05:00

Happy Day three of my Featured Artist Pay it forward challenge!

Thank you for all of the great feedback! I am really enjoying putting together the Artist of the day!

Did you ever watch a YT video, and just know that you would get along so well with the artist? Well that is exactly how I felt when I first saw a YT video by Cynthialoowho. Now Cynthia and I have not met, but I feel as though I know her. She is very warm and caring person, and it shows in her art. I honestly cannot recall what video sparked me to subscribe to her YT channel, but I do remember the video of the tribute mini she made, which I thought was incredible. Not only was it a fantastic idea, but the way she made the pages was interesting to me. Gatefolds, pockets, great pictures, just wonderful! And her kindness was rewarded by none other than Tim Holtz! So fantastic and so deserving!

and

Cynthia's style is a lot like I wish I could do all the time, steampunk. But that is not all she does...she makes jewelry, and charms, and 3-D objects, and the list goes on and on. It is all creative, and she shares a lot of great tips. I think she is just wonderful, and she continues to share with all of us. Recently she has opened a ning site, where the community shares her vibe, of creativity, and caring.
http://alilscrapofheaven.ning.com/ membership is free, and I encourage you to check it out.

Cynthia also has a shop, where she is selling products by such manufacturers as Ranger, Graphic 45, K & Co, Inkadinkadoo, Tim Holtz products ( of course) and many more, at reasonable prices. I bet if you were dying for something that she did'nt have in stock she would try and get it for you, because that is how she rolls.

Access to Cynthia's shop is on the ning site. And if all of that were'nt enough, with all of the giving to the art community that Cynthia does...she currently has a YT giftaway for her YT subscribers for reaching 1000 subbies! It is open until Sunday 1/9/11. So become a subscriber to her channel, and don't miss out on what she does next.

So with all of this to consider, I had a little trouble coming up with something to make for her... but them I stopped worrying, and created the tag in the video below:

Hugs,

1/2/11- 31 Day Challenge-Featured Artist- Scrappinology

2011-01-02T12:44:00.003-05:00

Hey Ya'll, It's Me....

Does that give you a hint at who my featured artist of the day is?.....Scrappinology...Gina O!

I have been a follower of Gina's on YouTube for a little while. She is such a happy person who shares her creations, and her shopping tips , and she has an infectious laugh and wonderful spirit.

Gina made an incredible Halloween mini in 2010, that so inspired me. I made an attempt, but I still have to finish it for next year. Here is a video of the mini Gina made:

Gina is a very creative scrapbooker, who shops wisely, and gives great tips for making all kinds of things, from mini albums, to 3-d objects, you name it. She also has a great community ning site, where everyone is so friendly, and shares their art.

www.myscraproom.ning.com I encourage you to become a member. There is something for everyone, and just like Gina, the community is so welcoming, and so creative.

Gina can be found on YouTube: Scrappinology is her user name.

Also Gina let it slip in a recent video how she loves Valentines Day, so the items I am RAKing to her speak to that holiday, and also will support he "Stampitis", which I also suffer from.

Thank you Gina for your warm spirit, your generosity, and creativity! Check her out!

Hugs,

1/1/11- 31 day challenge- Inkwell

2011-01-01T19:09:00.006-05:00

Welcome to day one of my 31 day challenge! Today's featured artist is ....

Dede Willingham aka Inkwell

Dede is someone I have just met via Ustream, and is definately a huge inspiration, and a Rock Star Artist! She is a very giving soul, and shares her talents via her blogs and Live Ustream shows on Wednesdays and Thursday at 9am EST. I am always bummed out, because I never get to see her live shows, but I do watch the recordings Dede! Not only does Dede have mad drawing and painting skills, she is so wonderfully cheerful and encouraging to other artists of all types. Maybe it is her southern accent, or her wonderful laugh, but believe me, if you have time to watch her shows, don't miss it. She is an inspiration.

And talented beyond measure. Check out her art journal pages on her blog:

http://inkiwell.blogspot.com/

and here is her Ustream link for her Art & Coffee shows:

http://www.ustream.tv/user/inkwell/shows

While I was watching her Stream- a- thon on Friday, I overheard her mention that she did not have many stamps. Well I can help with that! Below is the video I made of a video regarding the RAK I sent to DeDe.

I am very glad to have made her aquaintance, and I cannot say Thank you enough for all of the support and encouragement you have given our Art Community! Thanks you so much!

Hugs,

A New Year and a New Challenge....

2010-12-31T13:17:00.002-05:00

Hi Everyone!

Hope your holidays were great! We had a very nice and quiet Christmas with family.

I have been doing my live shows every Sunday at 4pm, and hanging around the art community on Youtube. I heard about a challenge for January that really peaked my interest and thought it would help me.

Marion Smith, the wonderful designer for Prima, and many others, threw down a challenge for January. To try something new everyday and record a YouTube video about your progress. Well, my mind started reeling. I thought for a while about what I would like to improve, and a few things came to mind.

I want to update this blog more often, and I want to record more videos in 2011. I also want to continue in my art. So I thought about what do I love most about my art? No matter how I thought about it, the answer always came back the same, I love making things for other people, and surprising them with a little love in the mail. So, my challenge this January, is to Pay it forward. I am going to select one person a day from my magic address book, make something for them, a card, a tag, or something I think they will like, throw in some things from my stash, and send it off to them.
Just my way of showing my appreciation for all of the artists I have met. It will also help me get through all of this stash, and get it to the folks who can use it. I will record a video about what I am sending or have created, and I will write a blog post about the person. So I will fulfill all my needs. Write more blog posts, record more videos, create for others, and reduce my stash!

So, if you get an e-mail from me, requesting your mailing address, please send it!

So, I am off to create my calendar, of artsy inspiring folks, and get ready to Pay it forward....

I think I am going to run into a little postage cost... so if you like this idea, and would like to help me pay for postage, I have posted a paypal link in the side bar. I would appreciate any donation, and I promise, it will go only for postage costs.

Thanks Marion, for making me think! And Thanks everyone for your support!
I hope you will check back and read about all my Youtube friends, and those I have met on Ustream.

Happy New Year!

Update, Ustream, Giveaway, 21 Secrets

2010-11-21T10:47:00.003-05:00

Ok, so it sounds silly...
I have taken my time updating my blog since my last post, because the last post was about Scotia.

Not a day goes by that she is'nt in my heart.

So this is Thanksgiving week, and I have been busy at work buried in meetings and Budget 2011...I have been creating little projects on Sundays, at my Ustream Show. Today we will be doing a Circle Squash album, a very cool project, that is easy to do with basic supplies that you may have on hand. Here is what you need:

4 12x12 sheets of cardstock
2 chipboard covers cut to fit
4 tags
assorted patterned papers of your choice
strong tape adhesive, like score tape
adhesive to adhere patterned papers- I used my ATG
bone folder
9 inch dinner plate for your template
Scissors
Assorted ribbon and embelishments of your choice.
Pencil/Eraser
I have attached a short video link to show the sample project.

I hope you will join us!

http://www.ustream.tv/channel/laurelfromnj

11/21/10 at 4PM EST

Also, I am nearing 500 subscribers on YouTube, this morning was 462! So exciting! I have begun to put together a pretty fabulous giveaway, as I have a goal of hitting 500 by the end of the year. So far the giveaway has Stamps, A Tim Holtz Texture fade pack, an On the Edge die, trims, flowers, Archival ink jumbo pad, mini misters, flowers, bling, charms and I am adding to it eash week. I am truly amazed by the community and support from everyone for my art. I hope if you are not a subscriber on YouTube to my channel, you will become one, and help me meet my goal!

http://www.youtube.com/user/scotia9338?feature=mhum

Also, there are only 9 days left to participate in 21 Secrets! Sign Up by visiting my good friend Paula's blog and read the details:

http://messymindcreativesoul.blogspot.com

Hope to see you all this afternoon, off to grocery shop for Thanksgiving!

Scotia, I miss you....

2010-10-10T12:43:00.004-04:00

I was wondering why I was in a sad mood today, and then it occurred to me that today was the day two years ago I said goodbye to my best friend.

Scotia was my cat, and she was extra special. I think she was a little person caught in a cat's body, sent to look after me, and help me learn about love.

And love she gave. in her own very special way, on her terms. As most cats do, she was fickle. But she loved everything, and everyone. I miss her so very much. I pray that she knows that my having to say good bye was an act of love on her behalf. As I never wanted her to suffer for a minute, as all she ever brought me was joy.

This year, as this day was looming on the calendar, I was fortunate to meet Dayle, who had also lost her dear sweet dog Bebe. I was struck by how selflessly Dayle thought to ease her pain by creating a card drive in Bebe's honor to create hand crafted cards to be distributed via vet's offices, to those that had lost a pet. I made 50 cards for the drive, and intend on doing 50 more. I can say that participating in the drive, helped a little, but today, nothing seems to help. My heart is just broken.

I have postings on this blog regarding the card drive which is ongoing. If you so desire, make a few cards, and follow in Dayle's footsteps to bring a little peace to someone who needs it.

I have provided the links to my blog post from the day I let Scotia go below, as the feelings are still the same.
http://paperandscissorsrock-laurel.blogspot.com/2008/10/furry-angel-in-heaven.html

Scotia, I miss you so much. I was so lucky to have you in my life for so many years. I think of you everyday.You will always be in my heart.

Hug your furry kids today.

Ustream and Classes

2010-09-21T11:08:00.002-04:00

Hi Everyone,

After some pressure from my friend Kerri, I have dipped my toe in the water of the Ustream community! I had my first broadcast this past Sunday, and all in all I think it went pretty well. I plan on broadcasting a live show every Sunday at 4PM EST. You can find me on Ustream under LaurelfromNJ.
I find it is similar to the classes I taught, but a larger audience, and a little strange talking to yourself...but fun!

This week, I just received the Compendium of Curiosities book by Tim Holtz. So I think it is appropriate to work my way through the techniques in the book. I hope you will join me!

Also, this week I have a Stampin Up order going in, if you would like a catalog, or to place an order, please e-mail me at ldeviney@comcast.net.

I have discovered a lot of great artists from all types of art through my videos on YouTube. One such artist is named Paula Phillips, who began as a scrapbooker, and stamper and now has incorporated art journaling into her creative life. She is an instructor in an upcoming class called "21 Secrets". Here is what you get for the low price of $59: 21 different artists, teaching different workshops with pdf's and videos. If you sign up for the class via Paula's link, you get a bonus Ustream live private showing for her class. The workshops will be held on a private ning site, that upon payment, and on October 1st, you receive a password to enter. You have until February 1st to complete the workshops at your own pace, and you can sign up until December 1st. They have room for a lot of students, I heard 200 is the number, but you might want to sign up quickly before all the spaces are gone!
Link to Paula's blog for more information and sign ups:
http://www.messymindcreativesoul.blogspot.com/

I signed up yesterday, I figure it is an excellent value, $2.81 a workshop, and I can work at my own pace and learn how to incorporate all kinds of art styles into my creations. You don't need to be an art journaler, the techniques that will be in the course can be used in many mediums.

I am in the process of building an ArtFire store, as I have been asked to sell my coffee filter flowers, and kits to make your own. I am having a few challenges with getting it set up, but I hope to have it running for next week. If you go to ArtFire.com, a great shopping site for handmade items, you can find my store as Scotia Creations.

Thanks for following.

Have a creative week!

Card Drive for Bebe and Reflection

2010-09-14T23:58:00.003-04:00

Hello Everyone!

Today I was reviewing some of my YouTube subscriptions, and came across one of my favorite crafters named Bona, whose channel name is LiveLoveScrap. She was asking for donations for a card drive. When I read he details of what type of card drive, I was overcome with emotion.

Dale, a young woman who lives in Hawaii, had a lovely dog named Bebe. Bebe was struck by a car on September 8th, and did not survive. AS Dale was dealing with her grief, the vet she had taken Bebe to, presented her with a special handmade card, which contained a lock of Bebe's hair and had her paw prints stamped on the inside.

Something so simple provided so much comfort at a devastating time. Dale being a stamper and crafter herself, has a goal. She wants to donate 1646 cards, similar in style to the one she received to vets offices near to her home. One for each day Bebe was a part of her life.

Please read more about Dale and Bebe on Dale's blog:

http://creativelychloe.blogspot.com/

and make a few cards in the style she asks for to help her reach her goal.

As many of you know, I had to let my beautiful Scotia go nearly two years ago. As I was reading Dale's story, and her goal, I was overcome with emotion. I know how much I hurt to this day about saying goodbye to Scotia. Often it brings me to tears. That Dale has come up with such a selfless, honorable way to honor her beloved Bebe, really resonated with me. I think her idea is wonderful, to turn such a tragic event into something good for others to help them find comfort in a time of need.

My goal is to make as many cards as I can, to help Dale achieve her goal, and to pay a little love forward from my beautiful Scotia who I miss so very much.

Dale, although we have never met, I just want to let you know what a true inspiration you are. I know your grief is deep, as these beautiful creatures take over a very special place in our hearts. The special place that is reserved for those you keep with you forever, even after they have to leave us. Bebe knows how much you love her, and that you always will. I am sending lots of hugs and support with my cards to you.

If you can make a card, please do, and send it to Dale in Hawaii. If you can donate supplies, please do. Please consult the blog link above for specifications. Dale is giving away some nice goodies for your support on World Cardmaking Day on Oct 2nd as well, because she is just such a good person. Pay it forward and make a card or two, won't you? The information below was on YouTube on Dale's channel- creativelychloe:

Please mail your cards to:
"I heart Bebe" Card Drive
P.O. Box 971283
Waipahu, HI 96797

For more information, please check out my blog at creativelychloe.blogspot.com

Please help me donate 1646 cards in honor of my dog, my Bebe.

The prize basket drawing will be held on October 2, 2010, World Card Making Day.

Here's hoping for a beautiful heaven with a rainbow bridge for Bebe and Scotia. waiting to see us one day.

Thanks so much for following.

Best Regards,

Birthday Gift Gift card slider and Coffee filter flowers

2010-08-29T23:59:00.002-04:00

Hi Everyone!

I have two videos for you today, I actually had some time to work on some projects this weekend.

The first video shows a gift card slider I made using some inspiration from Gina- Scrappinology on YouTube. She is a fantastic shopper and very creative lady. She had created a series of pockets from envelopes, so I added the slider part. The gift was for my friend Lisa who is celebrating a birthday tomorrow. Also, celebrating a birthday tomorrow is my childhood friend Elizabeth, and the third birthday on August 30th is my friend Victor Wilhite. I wish you all the very happiest celebration and a fantastic new year. I have always been amazed by the great people in my life, and ironically they all share the same birthday.

The second video is a tutorial to how I made my take on coffee filter flowers. I will list the supplies here:

Cone shaped Coffee filters- The brand I used is Natural Brew. I picked up a set of 300 filters at my local Sam's Club for about $5
Glimmer mist in your color choice
Glossy Accents for your glue
Tim Holtz Alterations die- Tattered Florals
Stylus
Heat Gun
Scissors

It is importan to note that if you wish to color your flowers, spray them with Glimmer Mist and heat set it, before you do the curling of the petals.

I hope you enjoy!

Have a great week!

Online Shopping and great Inspiration from Rachael

2010-08-23T01:37:00.005-04:00

Hi Everyone,

Just a quick Sunday Share. I have been spending a lot of time on Ustream, and YouTube, and I have met or seen some incredible artisits from all walks of art. A fantastic artist I was referred to is a gal named Rachael from the UK. I believe it was Arlene who referred me to her YouTube channel. I have been watching Rachael's videos and she is so inspiring. She does everything from Mixed Media, to jewelry, to clay, to mini books. She has a great grungy style and produces great videos.

Here is a link to her YouTube Channel: http://www.youtube.com/user/RachO113

The wonderful Arlene, also produces great art in all forms. She is very generous in how she shares her tips and her art. Her YouTube Channel is:
http://www.youtube.com/user/mybutterflykisses12

So I am watching all of these videos, and decided to take my own spin on the tag style Rachael creates. I have been having lots of fun. Also, Arlene had mentioned a source for red rubber vintage style stamps from Artistic Outpost. A great company, fast shipping and low prices. Check them out: www.artisticoutpost.com

Also today, I was searching for some bargains, and I stumbled across: www.scrapbooking-warehouse.com and I could not believe the prices. Glimmer Mist for $4.75! Tim Holtz Distress Inks $3.45 and Tim Holtz Texture Fades for $7.88! I did a little research, and the reports of thier service is great. I also placed an order, a sizeable one, and I will let you know how it works out. I am really encouraged.

I have included a video....

Thanks for reading and watching as always,

Big Kick, Big Shot Machine Sandwich Options

2010-08-18T20:32:00.003-04:00

Hi Everyone!

Attached are some videos about the Sizzix Big Kick/Big Shot machine and the sandwich layers needed for certain dies. I have also included a link to a document that you can download the information in written form here: https://docs1.google.com/document/edit?id=1QcJnVP4LzdMb-Sbmm1LbkD7nhWtRMU8AAZXBXozuxHA&hl=en#

These videos were made upon request. I apologize for the length, and poor camera work in advance.

Thanks for watching!

300 YT Subbies Giveaway!

2010-08-06T21:35:00.002-04:00

Hi Everyone!

Happily I am at 297 subscribers over on YouTube. I just still cannot believe it. In celebration of the 300 mark, and unfortunately since I have not heard back from the winners of my 250 subbie giveaway, I am declaring a do over! 4NikkiMay and Suralear1, my winners from the 250 subbie giveaway, please contact me, I do have prizes for both of you.
The rules are the same as the first time around, to qualify you must be a blog follower, or a YouTube subscriber. Leave a comment on the YouTube video for 300 subbie giveaway for one chance, and on this blog post for a second chance to win. Entries close on 8/15/10.

Tell me what kind of tutorials you would like to see in the future, or how you found my blog or channel, or both!

I just can't thank the artistic community enough for all the generous support. Follow me on Twitter: Laurel DeViney, Friend me on Facebook,or say hi right here. I am so grateful to all of the great people I have met.

Thanks again for watching!

Original giveaway video:

Giveaway Winners!

2010-07-25T21:49:00.003-04:00

Hi Everyone!

First let me say how ecstatic and grateful I am to everyone who commented and watched my videos, subscribed to my blog or YouTube channel. I am overwhelmed by the artistic community, and how supportive everyone is. I have made some really great friends and I hope you all continue to follow me on YouTube and right here.

I have selected the winners and the video is terrible of me filming my computer screen, so I will post them here. (I will upload the video to YouTube).

I have sent messages to the winners and as soon as I receive your replies with addresses, I will mail out the goodies.

YouTube winner: 4nikkimay-Nicole

Blog Winner: suralear1- Sharon

After all the commenting, and subscribers, I am up to 282 YouTube subscribers, which just blows my mind and 28 followers on my blog. I love reading your comments, and appreciate all of your feedback.

We are so close to 300 on YouTube, perhaps I will do another giveaway for getting my blog over 50 and YouTube over 300.....

Thanks so very much!

7/25/10-- Giveaway Closed*****YouTube 250+ Subscribers Giveaway!

2010-07-18T19:32:00.005-04:00

Hi Everyone!

I hope this weekend found you doing something you love, crafting, spending time with family and loved ones, or relaxing. I wanted to do a quick post to say a heartfelt THANK YOU! to all of my YouTube subscribers and blog followers. This past Wednesday I hit 250 plus subscribers over on YouTube, and I am in awe. To think that 250 plus people are interested in me and my videos...well I am blushing.

As a way to say thank you, I am doing a giveaway, here and over at my YouTube channel Link to follow. I will attempt to upload the video here, but Blogger has been tempermental with video, so I may just link to You Tube. In order to qualify for the giveaway, you have two opportunities to enter. One by being a follower of my blog, and leaving me a comment here, the other by being a subscriber on my YouTube channel and leaving a comment there. I will select a winner from each spot on Sunday night July 25, 2010 by Random Number Generator.

I have received several comments and questions that I will attempt to answer:

My YouTube channel is Scotia9338, no I am not Canadian.(well only a little) My beloved cat of 16 years was named Scotia. It is Gaelic for Irish Woman. I still miss her very much.

My nails are professionally done for about 20 years now. I get the Pink and White acrylics. It's really not about the nails, it's about taking the time to slow down and do something for myself. Pretty hands are a nice by product.

The Amethyst ring on my hand is my engagement ring. Amethysts are my favorite gem.

I am a Stampin Up demonstrator. My website for orders is as follows:

http://laurel.deviney.stampinup.net/

I live in NJ, and I am thrilled that you have taken the time to watch me learn to create cards, videos, improve my stamping, attempt new crafts
and make so many friends.

A special Thank you to Paula Phillips, Journal Artista on YouTube for introducing me to so many fine artists, and new techniques. Another Special Thank you to Rita H Cobbs , and Poetic Dreams for pimping my videos to the world. You guys just Rock!

http://www.youtube.com/user/scotia9338

Link to the video of giveaway goodies.

Thank you so,so much!

Where did May Go?

2010-06-20T22:51:00.000-04:00

Wow! Here it is Father's Day, and I have'nt posted since May, shame on me!

Just wanted to post my favorite picture that I have taken of my Dad...is'nt he cute? And say Happy Father's Day to all of the Dad's out there.

I Love you Daddy!

Hope you got to spend some time today with your Dad!

Happy National Scrapbooking Day!

2010-05-01T11:57:00.000-04:00

Hello Friends!

I hope you all find something to scrap today. It is a beautiful day outside, and near 80 degrees! I unfortunately have to go to work at around 1pm, so I am posting some pictures of some cards I made for My Pink Stampers National Scrapbooking Day Challenge #1.

Robyn has a great site, you can check it out here: http://www.mypinkstamper.com/

Enjoy!

Time Flies

2010-03-21T11:30:00.000-04:00

Hello All,

Wish I could say I have something crafty to share, but I truly have been consumed with my day job! Lots of changes going on, and it is taking all my time. I just checked my last post date, and wow! I have been busy. Sorry to be a sporadic blogger but sometimes life intervenes.

Since things are ever changing at work, a friend of mine and I have started a new venture doing bookkeeping for small businesses in our local area. If things go well we could spread out nationwide via the internet. Check us out: http://www.justbookkeepers.net/

I am waiting for a Stampin Up! order currently, and can't wait to play with some of the new items. I'll post a few projects once it arrives.

Also, Lisa my neighbor and I have taken the Copic plunge...we decided to buy one set a month and the best prices we have found are here: http://www.oozak.com/

Fast shipping and great service. They also sell Memento ink pads, best used with Copics. Free shipping for orders over $50.

Not much else to report. I am really craving some crafting time, hopefully this week.

Hope you got some time to create recently!

Happy Weekend!!!!!!!!

2010-02-26T23:48:00.001-05:00

Hi Everyone!

Wow! This week has been a doozy at work! And all this snow on the East Coast! Keith told me today that he read that Atlantic City's little airport has recorded more snowfall than Anchorage, Alaska this winter! Yeesh!

I took a little break tonight and actually made something. Blogger has me locked out of posting video but here is a link to my Youtube channel.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zG1e_MUb-24

I want to give credit where it is due.... I made the binding of the book from a tutorial I saw on Follow the Paper Trail, a blog and here is a link to her You Tube channel:

http://www.youtube.com/user/FollowThePaperTrail

I merged a few ideas for this book. First the covers are actually mini stretch canvas 4 x 5 inches. Fredrix is the brand name. I painted them in Champagne Mist shimmer paint-(SU!), and used my So Swirly wheel(SU!) and Tiber Brown Stazon ink for the cover and page images. Then I used a sponge and blended Dusty Durango, Rich Razzleberry and Crushed Curry Inks across the covers. I added interior covers out of Dusty Durango cardstock cut 4 x 5 and cut a little door in the front cover. I reversed a brad for my catch to keep the paper door closed.

The binding was made using the method that Follow the Paper Trail detailed but this is how easy it is:

Your cardstock should be the width ofyour project by 11 inches long. You need two of these. Score every 1/2 inch. Accorian Fold with the first and last being a valley. Attach the folded strips together in the center. Excluding the first tab, gather two mountain folds at a time in your hand and punch holes on either end. Insert brads on either side. Continue for 10 pockets. You may find you have one extra tab at the end, I just trimmed it off. Attach the binding to your project with strong adhesive. I used Sticky Strip (SU!).

Then pop your pages- mine are 3x 4 1/2 from cardstock, which I spritzed with my homemade Glimmer mist, of Champagne Mist Shimmer paint and rubbing alcohol, and wheeled with So Swirly in Timber Brown Stazon. The pages fit into the pockets, and stay via mild pressure.

I decorated the front of the book with a coordinating butterfly I had in my stash and some Prima Flowers and a Chocolate Chip Cordoroy Brad (SU!).

Pretty fun. Please let me know if you like it by leaving me a comment, here or on Youtube. I am considering putting a kit together along with a color tutorial.

Hope you have a great day!

formspring.me

2010-02-20T07:11:00.001-05:00

Ask me anything http://formspring.me/ldeviney

I admit it...I have an addiction to paper , stamps, glue....

2010-02-13T22:42:00.000-05:00

Hi from snowy southern NJ!

Who would have thought is a short week we would see in excess of 30 inches of snow? They say more on Monday, but I have no idea where we will put it!

Being trapped inside due to the weather, has made for some great crafting time. This year I am trying to organize time, money and things better than I have in the past. I thought a good place to start might be to go shopping in my craft room. You know, you get a little itch for something new, and you jump online to order it, or call up your demo, or head over to your local craft store...well not me. I have the best store ever right in my own home, filled with discounts gone by. Unorganized chaos, at the moment, but I keep telling myself, it looks worse before it gets better...

Anyway, as I am organizing ( and shopping ) in my little craft room, I was wondering how many others suffer from my afflication? I hoard the beautiful patterned paper, never cutting it, for someday, I love the darn $1 bin for ribbon, clear stamps, stuff, crap I don't need....
So here I am re-organizing, instead of creating! How do I let it get so out of control?

Here are a few tips to help get myself organized....

1. I am unmounting my Wood Mount stamps. Frankly, I need the room! The method I am using is to microwave each stamp for five seconds. Then peel off the foam and rubber image together as one piece. I will store them in CD cases, easily obtained at the dollar store or office store. I am not worried about having an image on the back. I am cutting copy paper to fit my CD cases, and stamping the images on the front, and also cutting a 1/4 inch strip for the name. So far, I don't need to apply any adhesive to the back of the foam. They stick quite well. If it should wear out- Club Scrap's Mount It Glue or Aleen's Tacky glue will work just fine.
2. I am saving my change. I have one of those coin counter jars in my scrap room. Everytime I have coins, I throw it in. You would be amazed. I started doing this on January 1st. I have $100 already!

3. I plan my shopping. I watch a lot of YouTube videos telling me all about the new CHA products, or a new technique or tool. I do a lot of research on price and product before I buy. Then when the change jar hits enough for whatever I want, I splurge and buy it. Here is an example, where the research paid off. I have wanted a Scor-Pal for a long time. The best price I could ever find was $49.99. Never a sale. Then I hear about the Martha Stewart Scoring board- retail $19.99, and Michael's carries it. So I saved up the change, and found a 50% off coupon, so now I have a new Martha Scoring Board for $10. Sweet!

4. I made an organizer for my Cricut cartridges and books/overlays. These things were everywhere! I saw a great tutorial on a blog to make one, using a Snapware ribbon storage container. I now have 20 carts and books and overlays stored neatly in one container, and it cost me $7. I also have room for more carts. I think I mentioned this in an older post, and I can't find the blog at the moment- so Thanks Again! for the info!

5. I picked up a turntable storage thingy at Staples for $5! It is great and compact for little things you use all the time, scissors, brads, etc. In the past I have found invitation envelopes which fit A2 size cards for $5 a box. So, I always check out Staples for the little things.

6. I made my own Clip It Up. Now I am sure it is not as great as the real thing, but it works just fine. I found a standing double sided towel holder at a Linen & Things going out of business sale a while ago. I think I paid $10 for it. It is weighted in the middle. I then used paper clips to hang my embellishments from it. I works really well.

7. You know those $1 photo albums you can get at a local craft store? They are about 4 x 6? I use them to store my sizzlets, and also to store $1 acrylic stamps. The books become very fat and won't close, but I have them up on my ink cabinet that is wall mounted,opened, so it does'nt bother me.

8. Part of crafting is to enjoy what you make. I was looking for a way to display finished cards, and I have seen many. I use clothes pins and clip them to my curtains in my craft room. This way, I can change them easily, and I get to see my work all the time.

So, a few tips. I would take pictures, however that must wait until the room is clean. When I finish the unmount project, I will shoot a video of my clean space.....

So are you an addict too? Leave me a comment with your organizational tips, or ways you save!
Happy Crafting!

Rainy Weekend Cards to share....

2010-01-17T19:09:00.000-05:00

Hi All,

I managed to get a few cards made this weekend fooling around with some of the Occasions mini products.

Here is a link to the video on YouTube.

Hope you managed to craft this weekend....

Occasions Mini & Sale-a-bration

2010-01-13T21:32:00.000-05:00

Hi Everyone!

Today I was happy that my order came in, and I was able to make a card using some new products from Stampin Up! Occasions Mini & Sale-a-Bration catalogs.
Hereis a link to a video I created which shows what I purchased, how to mount the labels on your clear mount stamps, and an example card I made.

Enjoy!

You tube

Have a great week- Stamp a lot!

Happy New Year!

2010-01-06T20:49:00.001-05:00

Wow, I guess it is about time I got around to making a post! This has been the busiest holiday season for me, as I have been inundated at my day job. I also have been sick. Caught an ugly cold right around Christmas, and it is still hanging on, so I come home full of ideas, and I do nothing but crawl into bed.

I also am considering moving my blog to a new service, as blogger no longer supports videos...I used to be able to upload right here, but no more, just a link to my YouTube channel. I will let you all know how this works out, or if you have suggestions of a good, free or low cost service, such as wordpress, typepad etc. maybe you could leave me a comment as to how it has worked out for you.

I have a lot of resolutions this year. Mostly about organizing my life in all aspects. One is to get out of my pocketbook for this hobby, or at least reduce it, and use my stash! I say it all the time, yet I keep the paper because I love it for someday...why? It's a piece of paper, just cut it already! Several of my friends suffer from the same affliction, we just keep on adding to our collection, and very seldom actual use it.I am hoping to change that this year.

I saw these words today at StampTV.com and thought it was a perfect adage to adopt for getting out of my creative box:

"Never be afraid to try something new. Remember, amateurs built the ark. Professionals built the Titanic.”

Very well said. It applies in a lot of areas in my life. So this year, I am trying new things, and getting organized, saving money, and losing weight. I also am going to try and reduce my weekly work hours to under 55 per week. That will be hard, but I want to spend time creating, and stamping, not being a work-aholic.

Have you made New Year's resolutions? Share them via a comment and tell me how you intend to keep them.

I also made a discovery over Christmas in my organizational quest. I received a Cricut Expression for Christmas, and can you believe it- I have'nt turned it on yet...yikes. Anyway, my cartridges were everywhere. I have close to twenty now, and I needed to organize them. I had read about the Scrapcaddy which stores cartridges and overlays and books, and the lowest price I could find was $15. So, I found a solution for $8, that I made with some help from this blog:

http://splatpat.blogspot.com/search/label/Cricut%20Cart%20Storage

Shannon is super talented, and I made a version of her Cricut Cart storage for $6 for the Snapware container ( got it 50% off at Joann's Fabric's in the Christmas clearance) and $2 for the plastic canvas at Walmart. My version holds 40 carts on the bottom layer and 20 books & overlays on the top. This allowed me to get rid of all the boxes, and save so much space.

Check it out. It is easy, affordable and a real space saver. I have seen them on Ebay for $30 & up.

I appreciate all the comments regarding blog platforms and resolutions. I hope to be back soon with something I have made. Stampin Up also has a few new catalogs out, and it's Sale-a-Bration time! If you are interested in hosting a workshop, book party etc. please contact me.