Stampin' & Scrappin' with Donna

YOU GOTTA LOVE A GOOD DEAL

During FEBRUARY & MARCH, 2013 purchase my "Love is in the Air" product bundle for just $75 (includes shipping and taxes) and you'll not only get a FREE Sale-a-Bration item of your choice, but you'll also receive full instruction sheets with colour photos to make:

• 5 different cards, suitable for Valentine's Day, Mother's Day, birthdays or just to say hello
• 8 scrapbook pages, 8"x8", use as 4 double page layouts, or frame individually as gifts
• 1 cute & frilly gift box, 3-1/2" x 3-1/2" x 2-1/2" high

All the projects are made using the products in my featured bundle, and after you've made them all, you'll STILL have supplies left to play with! All you need to provide is your favourite adhesives, a paper trimmer and some scissors.

Email me today to join the club & I'll have your product bundle shipped directly to your door via UPS!

cheers,

 

 

EMAIL: [email protected]

PS: Watch for my next online club with product bundle  ... starting in April!

We {Heart} Our Hostesses

 

Bask in the extra $60 in FREE products you'll receive when you host a qualifying party* during June and July that celebrates your creativity. With hundreds of innovative products to choose from, there's never been a better time to party!

Your Party Sales*	Regular Hostess Benefits	Additional Hostess Dollars	Total Hostess Benefits
$575	$90 + 1 item at 50% off	$60	$150 + 1 item at 50% off
$650	$110 + 2 items at 50% off	$60	$170 + 2 items at 50% off
$775	$130 + 2 items at 50% off	$60	$190 + 2 items at 50% off
$900	$150 + 3 items at 50% off	$60	$210 + 3 items at 50% off
$1,025	$170 + 3 items at 50% off	$60	$230 + 3 items at 50% off
$1,150	$190 + 4 items at 50% off	$60	$250 + 4 items at 50% off
$1,275+	$210+ 4 items at 50% off	$60	$270 + 4 items at 50% off

*Minimum $575 party; party sales do not include tax and shipping.

No time in your life to have a traditional party in your home? That's ok - collect orders from your friends and submit it as a catalogue party - you'll still get the same great benefits!

NOTE: Regular Hostess Benefits still apply to parties with sales of $200 - $574.99. Check out the Hostess chart and the all-new hostess-exclusive products on pages 200 - 205 of the new 2012-2013 Catalogue for all the details. My favourite Hostess stamp set is "Carry On" ... what's yours?

 

MAKE THE SMART MONEY MOVE TODAY

There's good news if you are waiting to join Stampin' Up! as a demonstrator ... not only has the Starter Kit been reduced to $125, but YOU get to pick the products you WANT in your kit - choose anything at all that adds up to $155 catalogue price, plus you'll also receive a business supply pack worth $70 ... all for only $125.

Here's more good news: if you are a former demonstrator who wants to re-join under a new upline, the wait period is now shorter. Here's the details from Stampin' Up:

"We have recently reviewed several policies, and would like to announce a change to our rejoin policy that became effective May 1, 2012.

The previous rejoin policy states that, once a demonstrator drops, she can either sign up again immediately under the same upline (if that upline is active), or wait six months and sign up under a new upline. The change, effective May 1, is that now a demonstrator must only wait 90 days from her effective drop date before signing up under a new upline. The effective drop date is the last day of the month in which she resigns, or the last day of the pending month if she fails to meet her quarterly minimum.

The purpose of this change is to reduce a barrier to returning to Stampin' Up! once a demonstrator has dropped. We recognize that many circumstances can contribute to a demonstrator deciding to drop or resign her business with Stampin' Up!, and there may be legitimate reasons for a demonstrator to join a new downline group.

While we want to accommodate these demonstrators' needs, we still need to protect the stability of an upline's business, therefore in addition to the 90-day waiting period, sales history, downline, and title cannot be restored when a demonstrator is dropped and rejoins, and she will be considered a brand new demonstrator."

I hope you'll consider joining me as a demonstrator - not only will I offer as much (or as little) support as you want, but you'll be a member of my super fun and supportive team, the Artful*Inkers!

Join online today simply by following this link: JOIN THE ARTFUL*INKERS TEAM 

Or if you have questions, please email me at [email protected] and I'll be happy to assist you!

RETIRING ACCESSORIES LIST IS HERE

Get them before they are gone! The retiring accessories lists are now available and won't stay around for long--these items are only available while supplies last!

When you look at the retired accessories list, you'll note that it's REALLY long this year. That's because of the efforts Stampin' Up! is making to design the new 2012-2013 Annual Catalogue so that it's fresh, trendy, and half the price of the old catalogue - which means a reduced business-cost for me, which means I can afford to give FREE catalogues to more of my customers!

Here's a few of the changes that make this list so long:

• There are actually two lists this year - our Definitely Decorative product line (including Decor Elements) is being discontinued, so that we can focus our efforts on what we do best - paper crafting!
• On the Accessories list, you'll see that all of our Stampin' Pads are listed. This is for two reasons: (1) Craft Stampin' Pads will now only be available in black and white; and (2) we are introducing a new Firm Foam pad in our Classic Stampin' Pads with the 2012-2013 annual catalogue. The Firm Foam pads offer better ink coverage and, in turn, better stamped images. I haven't tried them out yet, but I can't wait to order some!
• Only select Stampin' Write Markers will be available to buy individually in the new catalogue, but don't worry - sets of Stampin' Write Markers in colour collections will still be available!
• 12" x 12" Textured Card Stock will no longer be offered in the new catalogue
• 12" x 12" Smooth Card Stock will only be available in select individual colours (solid packs) and in our colour collections - again, don't worry 'cause the best-sellers are staying!

So, check out the Retiring Accessories Lists today because these items are only available while current stock lasts or until May 31, whichever comes first. To be sure to get what you want, use my on-line store - the system will tell you right away if something is sold out. If you prefer to email me your order, give me a second or even third choice so I can make substitutions for you and submit your order quickly, without a lot of emailing back & forth, ok?

Ready? Set? GO!

RETIRING DEFINITELY DECORATIVE LIST (PDF)

RETIRING ACCESSORIES (PDF)

RETIRING ACCESSORIES (SORTABLE EXCEL FILE): Download Retiredlist-sort_en-CA

And here's the Retiring Stamps List once again - stamps are available until May 31st:

RETIRING STAMP SETS (PDF)

RETIRING STAMP SETS (SORTABLE EXCEL FILE): Download Retired_List_stamps_en-CA

cheers

MARCH 31st IS APPROACHING AT WARP SPEED

For all you frugal paper crafters out there (like me)  - who's hobby sometimes takes a hit when the family budget won't budge - take a minute to assess your stash and buy what you need now while SALE-A-BRATION freebies can boost your limited dollars to a whole new level.

Even if you aren't stamping or scrapping right now, the time will come when you have an hour to yourself and it'll be soooo much easier to pick up where you left off if you have the necessary supplies at hand.

SALE-A-BRATION (SAB) works like this:

• Place an order of $60 CAN or more and get a FREE item from the SAB Brochure. Order $120 and get TWO FREE items, and so on.
• If your order is $200 or more, you also get FREE Hostess Benefits of your choice AND a FREE tote.
• If your order is $525 or more, you also get a FREE SAB Hostess Bundle AND one item from the catalogue @ 50% off.
• If you buy either of the Demonstrator Starter Kits (Standard or Digital+) during SAB, you save a bundle of cash (pay $150 instead of the regular $215 AND you'll also receive a FREE pkg of Designer Series Paper OR a FREE Digital Download each month in 2012 that you remain active, PLUS all the regular Demonstrator Benefits from Stampin' Up! and from my team, the Artful*Inkers. You don't have to sell a thing if that's not your thing - just enjoy the Starter Kit and save money on your own purchases from here on in.

So, why the warp speed reference in today's title?

Well, all this SAB goodness ends at midnight, March 31st, 2012 - yep, that's just 3 short days, or roughly 84 hours (as I'm typing this) left to place your order and MAXIMIZE your hard-earned money.

Hey, it's springtime, and you know what's coming up in the next few months: Easter, Mother's Day, Father's Day, graduations, teacher gifts, maybe even a few showers and weddings ... here's your chance to replenish your stash, give your cards and gifts a more personal touch, and S-T-R-E-T-C-H the dollar.

Sounds good to this Frugal Stamper.

ACRYLIC DISTRESS TECHNIQUE

Stampin' Up! featured this technique in their March issue of Stampin' Success, a kewl monthly magazine they send to all their demonstrators.

It's called Acrylic Distress and the only thing you need besides your Stampin' Up! stash of goodies is a bit of acrylic paint (the kind that is sold everywhere in squeeze bottles for a dollar).

Here's a photo (left) of the card we made at our last team meeting when Samantha Forrest demoed this technique - I put the embossing folder backwards onto the painted card stock, so mine is "de-bossed" by mistake & you don't get the same stand-out effect, but ...

... this second photo (right) is from Stampin' Up! - same colours, different design - but you can see the effect better on this card since the embossing was done right side up (grin).

 

I can see all kinds of uses for this technique with all of Stampin' Up!'s embossing folders and with all kinds of different colours of acrylic paint. Click on this link to download a prointable PDF instruction sheet, and give this one a try!:  Acrylic Distress Technique

PS: The DEMONSTRATOR STARTER KITS (both Standard and Digital+) are on sale right now for $150 CAN (regular $215). With this purchase, you recieve a minimum 20% off all purchases, the Stampin' Success magazine, password-access to Stampin' Connection and the Demonstrator Website, a ton of free and discounted Stampin' Up! products, and lots more. I mean, it has to be a good deal or why else would I still be with this company after 10 years, right? For more information, CLICK HERE. Sale price ends March 31, 2012.

I'll be back on Monday with more paper crafting projects to share - have a great weekend!

 

LOTS TO CELEBRATE

Hi everyone - I'm back from Stampin' Up!'s Leadership Conference in San Antonio ... we just flew in last night. It was a week of celebrating our achievements, our friendships, and our survival of North America's economic slump ... things are definitely looking better for 2012! And wait til you see all the terrific things Stampin' Up! has planned for customers AND demonstrators in the upcoming months .. it will blow your mind!

Today kicks off our biggest promotion of the year ... SALE-A-BRATION!! This is the one many of you wait for each year - there are lots of exclusive freebies to choose from if you ...

a) place a $60 order (2 for $120, 3 for $180)

b) host a $200 (free tote) or $525 workshop (free bundle) .. it doesn't have to be a home party/workshop; it can be a catalogue party, single order, group order, etc.

c) purchase either of the Demonstrator Starter Kits for the sale price of $150 CAN during SAB (you'll also get a FREE pkg of Designer Series Paper or a FREE My Digital Studio download EVERY MONTH for the rest of 2012!)

OK, I just had to highlight that in red because of the frugal stamper in me, lol.

(You gotta love the free stuff!)

If you don't have a Sale-A-Bration brochure, email me your snail-mail addy and I'll add you to my mailing list - my next trip to the Post Office is this Friday, January 27th. Or you can click on the brochure cover here to see it online (not as much fun, but it's instant gratification - no waiting)

Finally, you can place your SAB order in one of three ways:

a) shop through my online store and it will be delivered by UPS direct to your front door

b) phone or email me with your smaller orders and I'll submit them all together this weekend

c) drop by the house or one of my stamping events & place your order in person

Happy Shopping!!

 

HOLIDAY MINI: CARRYOVER ITEMS

Stampin' Up!'s Holiday Mini Catalogue will expire next Tuesday (January 3rd, 2012) and since it is the best Mini they've ever published, be sure to check it out one last time before those awesome products are G-O-N-E!

For your convenience, I've added a link to the online mini - just click on the cover photo to the left.

While you're doing that, keep in mind that a few items from the Holiday Mini will still be available after the catalogue expires ... click HERE to see a flyer of the CARRY-OVER ITEMS

And while you're perusing the soon-to-be-gone items, check out the ONLINE CLEARANCE RACK for some bargains, too!

Wishing all of you a very Happy New Year! Cheers,

 

 

CLEARANCE RACK BLITZ

The CLEARANCE RACK section of my online store is chock full of retired items from Stampin' Up!s warehouse - unused and still in their original packaging - and this week Stampin' Up! has reduced the prices EVEN MORE - as much as 80% in some cases; plus they added a lot more products just for this Boxing Week sale!

TIP: Be sure that you enter the online store through my website so that you will receive the preferred (read: lowest) prices for each and every item ... just use the SHOP NOW link here on this blog ... plus by ordering online, your package will be delivered right to your door (UPS)!!

Here's just one of the fantastic bargains available in the CLEARANCE RACK this week:

Watercolor Wonder - New Color Kit	120949
Regular Price: $17.32
Preferred Price: $15.59
Catalogue Price $51.95 If you already have our Watercolor Wonder Crayons and want to switch out retired colors for new colors, you'll want this kit. It includes new core colors and an updated inlays for your Watercolor Wonder tins. ■ Includes 17 colors: Cherry Cobbler, Cajun Craze, Daffodil Delight, Marina Mist, Early Espresso, Crumb Cake, Basic Gray, Rich Razzleberry, Soft Suede, Melon Mambo, Baja Breeze, Pacific Point, Pink Pirouette, Riding Hood Red, Tangerine Tango, Wild Wasabi, River Rock ■ Water soluble and easy to blend, allowing for an unlimited range of shades ■ Coordinate with Stampin’ Up!’s exclusive colors ■ Complete color collections available (sold separately) ■ Can also be used without water to color images

FREE SHIPPING DAY DEC 12

If you shop online, you'll be happy to know that Dec 12 is officially FREE SHIPPING DAY in Canada! Click on this link to see a list of participating companies ... and know that I will also give FREE SHIPPING to anyone who orders their Stampin' Up! products on my website on Dec 12th!

Here's how to get your FREE SHIPPING through Scrappin' with Donna:

Just place your online order as usual on Dec 12th, making sure that my name appears in the upper right corner as your demonstrator ... you'll be automatically charged shipping through the online site, but I will personally refund you (in cash or credit, your choice) once your order ships.

And the best news? Online orders are delivered by UPS - right to your door!

Happy Online Shopping on December 12th!

 

2 CHRISTMAS STAMP SETS GOING AT BARGAIN PRICES

Stampin' Up!'s ONLINE EXTRAVAGANZA sale continues this week  - but only until Wednesday the 30th. Probably the best of the seasonal bargains to be had are these two Holiday Stamp sets:

                

 

Many Merry Messages - Regular Price: $42.95, Sale Price: $21.48
& Winter Post - Regular Price: $32.95, Sale Price: $16.48

Call or email me to be added to my next order going in this week ... or purchase these sets and a ton of other great EXTRAVAGANZA bargains through my online store - just click here to start shopping & your order will be delivered to your door by UPS! Just remember, the sale ends on Wednesday Nov 30!

cheers

SAVE 50% & 60% ON DESIGNER FABRICS

As part of Stampin' Up!'s current ONLINE EXTRAVAGANZA SALE, designer fabrics can be picked up this week for a real bargain! Expand your crafting options with our new Designer Series fabric for a whole new look and range of project possibilities!

All of our fabrics are a perfect medium for creating all kinds of beautiful projects using the Big Shot machine and our large collection of dies.

■ Combines exclusive designs and colors with high quality fabric
■ Coordinates with other Stampin’ Up! products
■ Extra wide fat quarters
■ 100% cotton
■ Each piece measures approx. 28" x 18"
■ 3 coordinated designs

 

 

 

 

 

DECK THE HALLS, # 121716   regular price: $12.50,  SALE PRICE:  $5.00

CANDY CANE CHRISTMAS, # 121715  regular price: $12.50,  SALE PRICE: $5.00    

SPRINGTIME VINTAGE, # 121817  regular price: $12.50  SALE PRICE: $6.25    

SWEET STITCHES, # 121818  regular price: $12.50  SALE PRICE: $6.25

Sale ends Nov 30th ... order these and many other sale items through my online store, or call/email me with your order... happy shopping!

40% OFF THIS VALENTINE BUNDLE

Here's just one of the exclusive bundles offered during ONLINE EXTRAVAGANZA this week ... this one's at 40% OFF regular catalogue prices if you were to buy the stamp set & wheel separately ... what a great gift for the crafty person on your list - or for yourself! Check out the flyer HERE to see the rest of the bundles, plus lots of stamps, embellishments, fabric, Big Shot dies, and much more - all at 20% to 60% off! Sale ends Nov 30th! - Donna

I {Heart} Hearts Clear-Mount Stamp & I {Love} Love Wheel Bundle	129033
Catalogue Price: $33.45
Sale Price: $20.07 The I {Heart} Hearts Stamp Set/Wheel Bundle contains the I {Heart} Heart Stamp Set in clear- or wood-mount and the I {Love} Love Jumbo Stampin’ Around Wheel. Only available during Online Extravaganza, this exclusive bundle is 40 percent off the retail price November 21-30!

A DAY LATE AND A DOLLAR SHORT...

That's an old saying my father used to say whenever someone didn't follow through on a promise and he had to hire someone else to do the work .... I used it with my kids too, but usually to say that they were too late with their chores so I did the work myself and kept their allowance (what a meanie I was!)

Today I use this old phrase with you to acknowledge that I dropped the ball yesterday - I DIDN'T send out the first of 12 Holiday Helper emails as promised, and I DIDN'T let you all know about Stampin' Up!'s pre-holiday ONLINE EXTRAVAGANZA SALE which started yesterday - that was extra-bad of me because one of the items on sale was available only for the first 24 hours - phooey! I wonder how I can make that up to you? Keep reading...

I was totally out of commission due to a whopper of a migraine that conveniently started at the end of the Baby & Bump show on Sunday and finally faded away late last night. I remember all too much of Sunday night - being awake and in pain for most of it, but I really can't remember much about yesterday - I slept, medicated, drank water - then repeated the cycle all day long.

Today, other than some residual stiffness in my shoulders and neck, I'm back on my feet and working once again. You can expect the first TWO HOLIDAY HELPERS to be in your inbox by end of day today, and the rest will follow  - one each morning until they're done.

As for the ONLINE EXTRAVAGANZA SALE - there are some pretty amazing specials, running from 20% to 60% savings on selected items, so it's definitely worth checking out!

Here's the link to view the flyer online

This event continues for 10 days - over the American Thanksgiving & Black Monday Sales - so we can enjoy some great savings up here in Canada too! Also included is a special offer for digital crafters: purchase MY DIGITAL STUDIO EXPRESS @ the regular price of $49.95 and you'll get your choice of a FREE Digital Download Bundle worth $42.00!! The bundle options are: 

Bundle #1: My Digital Studio Booster Pack  (item # 124484)

Bundle #2: Holiday Themed Downloads (item #129385)
    -Merry & Type Stamp Brush Set
    -Letters to Santa Designer Series Paper
    -Letters to Santa Embellishments
    -Baker's Twine
    -Dasher Stamp Brush
    -Holiday Harmony II Kit
    -Merry Delightful Digital Tape
    -25 & Counting Stamp Brush Set
    -Deck the Halls Designer Buttons
    -And a Happy New Year Photocard Template  

Bundle #3: Scrapbooking Themed Downloads (item #129386)
    -Day in the Lift Kit
    -Thoughtful Overlays Stamp Brush Set
    -Fun Flowers Shapes
    -Delightful Digital Tape
    -Sweet Details Alphabet & Numbers
    -Word Play Stamp Brush Set

To view a PDF of the images in each bundle, visit my online store and look under My Digital Studio Express.

The ONLINE EXTRAVAGANZA prices are available whether you place an order with me through a workshop, over the phone or email, or online through my website (use the link above to make sure you're at MY store and get the PREFERRED pricing)

NOTE: Digital items MUST be ordered online through my store as they are delivered to you online immediately after your purchase. This includes the MY DIGITAL STUDIO EXPRESS software with the FREE bundle offer.

Now remember that very special offer that was only on the table for the first 24 hours (like, yesterday)? Here's what we missed:

• 20% off SIMPLY SCORED (Item 122334, pg 7 of Holiday Mini) - reg. price: $38.95
• 20% off SWEET PRESSED COOKIE STAMPS (Item 125152) - reg. price: $20.95

Those are two of our most popular new items right now - and I feel badly that I didn't let you know about the 24 hour sale yesterday, so here's what I'm going to do: Anyone who places an order of $50 or more in the next 9 days (during the Online Extravaganza) can also purchase either of yesterday's items at 20% off and I WILL PAY the difference. If your order is $100 or more, you can purchase BOTH of yesterday's items and I will pay the 20% difference.

Enjoy your holiday shopping, and if you are a newsletter subscriber, watch out for your first two Holiday Helpers to arrive in your inbox later today!

cheers,

The Most Wonderful (and Busiest) Time of the Year

The Most Wonderful (and Busiest) Time of the Year

 Ah yes, it is that time of year ... back to school, then Halloween, then Thanksgiving, then Christmas ... and then there’s the new year and Valentine’s Day is not too far behind. It’s the time of year when the holidays seem to pile up on each other and our “To Do” List seems to keep growing. But don’t put card making or handmade gifts to the wayside.

Here are some reasons why:

It’s relaxing...

Take time for yourself to enjoy your hobby and check things off of your list of things to do at the same time. A fun gift to create are little treat boxes with the Matchbox Bigz XL Big Shot die (#114890), some labels, and the It’s a Wrap Holidays stamp set (#122770 - wood/#122772 - clear). Stamp the labels, wrap them around mini candy bars and put them into the Matchbox and they are ready to give. Embellish the Matchbox for an added touch. And don’t forget to enjoy some chocolate while you are stamping for some added relaxation.

It’s personal...

You can create cards and gifts that reflect your personality or that are personalized for the recipient. Handmade, stamped cards and gifts are the things that the recipient will hang onto long after the holidays are over. There is just something about the thoughtfulness of a handmade card or gift that makes it that much more special.

The new Stampin’ Card Keeper (#124107) makes a great gift filled with some handmade cards, and also makes a great way to keep organized during the holidays.

It’s festive...

Start a family tradition. Create wreaths for the different seasons or holidays as family and let each member of the family create and add a personal element. You can even incorporate Simply Adorned charms (#116799) into your project and family members can create different inserts to change with the seasons.

My pleated paper wreath class will be in Guelph on Mon Oct 17 and in Clifford on Thurs Oct 20; 7-9 pm. Visit MY EVENTS page to RSVP your seat online!

 

 

 

 

Pull out your catalogues, plan your projects, order your supplies, and then you will be ready for what the holiday season brings you. If you would like personal design assistance for your holiday projects, please contact me and I would be more than happy to help!

cheers,

 

 

 

GUELPH: CULTURE DAYS & TRUNK SALE

I'm packing up all my retired-and-no-longer-needed stamp sets today ... they'll be at my booth this weekend at Crafters Cupboard's TRUNK SALE and Culture Days Event ... come see me on Friday, Saturday, Sunday 'cause they're PRICED TO GO ... I don't have the space to keep them anymore; my collection is bustin' at the seams, lol!

Check out this link for times and location:

CULTURE DAYS/TRUNK SALE

 

All the Crafters Cupboard vendors (including me!) will also be on hand, demonstrating their skills and you can watch the demonstrations or even get your hands in there and try them out for yourself! Be sure to drop by my booth for the official launch of my SCRAP IT paper crafting kits - and be sure to fill out the survey to tell me which project should be my next kit release!

BUY 3 & GET ONE FREE!

Stampin' Up!'s Designer Series Papers are on sale this month - wahoo!!

Probably my favourite Stampin' Up! product and the accessory I sell the most of (so you must love it too) ..

During August 2011, buy any three DSP packages (yes, you CAN mix and match!) and pick a fourth package FOR FREE!

Use this limited-time offer to stock up on all your favourites, including brand-new designs from the 2011-2012 Idea Book & Catalogue AND the new designs in the Summer Mini Catalogue too.

Things to Remember

• Click on the photo above to view the promotional flyer.
• Orders may be placed online, in person, or by email ([email protected]) or by phone (1-519-327-8482) (Canadian orders only, please)
• There is NO LIMIT to the number of free packages of Designer Series Paper you can get.
• Designer Series Paper ordered in Hostess freebies does not qualify for the promotion.
• Specialty Designer Series Paper or Hostess Designer Series Paper cannot be redeemed through this offer ... check out pages 184, 185 & 186 in the new 2011-2012 Idea Book & Catalogue to see all the great packages you CAN choose from!)

I think I'll start with a couple of packages of Well Worn DSP and a couple of Letters to Santa. What are YOU going to pick?

Happy Shopping!

TIME TO GROW

Have you seen the Highlites Video from Stampin' Up!'s Convention, held in Salt Lake City earlier this month? Wow, they sure can put on a party ... I'm making plans to attend next summer with some of the demonstrators on my team, 'cause I don't want to miss out on all this fun!

I'm really happy that three more friends have joined my team this month, taking advantage of the July Mini Starter Kit promotion ... and it only cost them $119, instead of the usual $215! Welcome to Wilma, Linda and Vikki!!!

Want in on the fun and savings? There's still time this weekend to sign up and start saving a minimum of 20% off everything you buy ... offer ends @ midnight on Sunday July 31st!

You can join my team through my online New Demonstrator thingy-ma-bob - you'll need your S.I.N. number, a credit card, and my password, which is artful_inkers

• Here's more info on the July Mini Starter Kit
• Here's a link to sign up online
• Here's what you can do/receive as a Stampin' Up! demonstrator!

Plus, you'll be a part of the best team of demonstrators in Canada ... the Artful*Inkers!

Go for it!

 

STAMPIN' UP IS GIVING IT AWAY!

So much has happened this month in the stampin' world while I was A.W.O.L - for example, were you aware that Stampin' Up! overhauled their already generous Hostess Rewards Program to give our hostesses EVEN MORE FREE STUFF?!! I keep telling ya' that's why I'm with Stampin' Up! ... it's all about the free stuff!

Now we have Hostess Dollars - earned with workshop totals (or catalogue parties) totalling $200 and up .. the higher your sales total climbs, the more hostess dollars you receive. And get this: there are NO MORE HOSTESS LEVELS for the free stamps - instead, you use your hostess dollars to "buy" as many and whichever hostess stamp sets as you like!

If you don't care for any of the hostess sets (I don't think that's even possible; there are so many great ones to choose from!) - you can use your HOSTESS DOLLARS to "buy" anything in the catalogue or mini - REALLY!!! I almost fell out of my chair when they told us that one, lol.

And if that wasn't enough, when your workshop totals reach $525 - you get to purchase ANY one item from the catalogue at half price! (How would you like to own a Big Shot die cutter for only $61.48? Or My Digital Studio for only $49.98?) Now THAT'S frugal shopping!

It gets better ... $650 in sales gets you TWO half-priced items; $1,000 in sales gets you THREE, and so on. Here's the complete Hostess Rewards chart so you can see for yourself:

 

Now with Stampin' Up!'s new HOSTESS BENEFITS PROGRAM it's even easier to fulfil your entire wishlist, just by hosting a workshop or catalogue party ... or by placing your own online order naming yourself as the hostess - yeah, you can do that! And if you order online, it will be delivered right to your door!

Remember all those great new Hostess stamp sets I was talking about earlier? You know, the ones you can "buy" for FREE with your hostess dollars - wanna see them? Just click here!

Ready to book your workshop? Send an email to reserve your August-September date to: [email protected]

We can hold it in your home anywhere in the Guelph/Fergus/Elora/Harriston area ... or if you really want to do something special, pile all your girlfriends in the van and come up to my new place in Clifford ... yeah, it's an hour's drive from Guelph - but if you carpool and all chip in for the gas, I guarantee you'll enjoy the scenery through the Mennonite countryside - and our 100 year old house is a nice setting for an afternoon or evening of stamping and creating with friends!

Let's get to work on that wishlist of yours ... remember, it's all about the FREE STUFF, lol!

cheers,

IT'S ALL COMING TOGETHER

For the last three evenings wehave been busy sorting, pricing and setting up for my big Catalogue Launch and Tent Sale (minus the tent). Here's some things you can expect to see this Saturday:

• Retired Product Sale in the air-conditioned dining room (since the outside temp is an expected 38 degrees celcius on Saturday!!)
• Catalogue Purusing and Order Placing out on the deck (with lots of chairs & ice cold lemonade!!)
• Bake Sale out on the picnic table under the big umbrella (proceeds go to WEEKEND TO END WOMENS CANCERS)
• Select studio fixtures are being sold down in my basement studio (white boards, counter, folding tables, paper rack, etc - see the full list on the wall in the studio)

And here are some of the specials I'm running during the sale:

• Place an order from the new catalogue equal to the value of the retired products you pick out, and the retired stuff goes home with you for FREE! (Hint: shop the retired tables first for best selection, then get a total + order form & catalogue from my assistant, THEN grab a chair outside to write out your catalogue order)
• Single stamp sale (fill a container with the individual   stamps YOU want and pay a flat price for the container - $10, $15, $20 and $25 sizes available to choose from!!)
• Launch of my new line of SCRAP IT papercrafting kits - get an up close and personal look at my latest endeavour!!
• Sign up for any of my Clubs and get a FREE Hostess Set from the new catalogue, in addition to regular club membership perks!! (BIG SHOT CLUB, PUNCH CRAZY CLUB, CHRISTMAS CARD CLUB, or TECHNIQUE CLUB - 4 month committment required; clubs start in September in Guelph)
• Join in my RIBBON & DESIGNER PAPER SHARES - details were emailed earlier this week to everyone on my subscription list; many different product shares are available with five spots per product. As soon a list is filled, I'll order that product & deliver asap! (Mailing service is available for an extra charge if you live too far away to come in person - Canada only, please)

I've probably forgotten to mention something (and I'm sure my helpers will let me know, lol!) - but I think you get the idea ... it's the last Tent Sale I'll ever have here in Guelph, and there's so much going out the door that you can't afford to miss it!! The sale runs from 10 am til 1 pm ...

See you on Saturday!!

HAPPY, HAPPY NEWS

There sure is a lot to be happy about these days ...

First off, a BELATED Happy Canada Day to everyone up here in the Great White North, and a BELATED Happy Independence Day to all my friends, family and co-horts in the US! I hope EVERYONE had a relaxing, memory-filled long weekend ... without getting a sunburn!

More Happy News:

• The 2011-2012 IDEA BOOK & CATALOGUE from Stampin' Up! is now in effect, and it is FULL of wonderful new products that I for one can't wait to get my hands on! Well to be truthful, as a demonstrator I ALREADY have my hands on a few choice bits that I'll be showing off at my ....

• NEW CATTY LAUNCH AND ANNUAL TENT SALE (minus the tent) - it's this Saturday, July 9th from 10 am - 1 pm and since hubby & I are moving later this month, I'm throwing everything but the studio sink (wink) into this sale 'cause my new stamping space is about a quarter of the size of my current studio! So to encourage as much as possible to leave my home and go to yours, I'm giving it all away ...

• That's right! Fill your bag with retired embellishments, tools, stamps, card samples, grab bags of UFOs and soooo much more; then my assistants will tally up your total - and as long as you place an order from the new catalogue equal to or more than that total (before taxes and shipping) then you can take your bag of treasure home FOR FREE! And as if that wasn't enough happy news - guess who's coming to Saturday's sale?

• My daughter and granddaughter - WAHOO! Mel will be here with her delicious baking (a recently developed talent that surprised the heck out of her mother - who knew?) to help raise money for her entry fee into the WEEKEND TO END WOMENS' CANCERS ... and baby Norah will be here to delight and charm you all into buying her mommy's baked goods; buy a cookie and you get to hold the baby ... hmmm <wink>

Owl Hoot for Canada!

See you all on Saturday!!

PS: UFOs in my world are "unfinished objects" - and I have a ton of them to give away!

cheers

 

JULY ONLY: STARTER KIT PROMO

LAST DAY TO ORDER

Remember that tomorrow, Thursday, June 30, 2011, is the last day you can order product from the following Stampin' Up! catalogues: 

• 2010-2011 Idea Book & Catalogue 
• 2010-2011 Definitely Decorative Brochure

 

You can place your orders with me:

• by phone:            519-823-8891  
• by email: [email protected]
• in my Online Store: www.scrappinwithdonna.stampinup.net

I'll be teaching at Crafters Cupboard tonight - drop by with your ordering questions - or reach me at my home all day/evening on Thursday.

And don't forget my NEW CATALOGUE LAUNCH and TENT SALE on Saturday July 9th; 10 am - 1 pm!

cheers

IT'S THE HAP-HAPPIEST TIME OF THE YEAR!

Hello! Did you miss me?

We're just back from an impromtu camping trip and family reunion (I do love having a flexible job so when hubby says, "Let's go" I can do a quick shuffle and follow him out the door, lol!). I organized some "Baby Triathalon" games at the reunion so that my little grandbaby would be able to participate this year <wink> and it was hilarious to see the adults on "Team Norah" trying to get her to make faces, build a tower out of sponges, and play baby soccer (picture Daddy holding her under her arms and swinging her body & feet at the ball .. it was a hoot!)

But now it's time to get back to work (or play, as hubby insists) ...

So what's up with today's title?

If you've been around me & Stampin' Up! for any length of time, you already know why I LOVE this time of year ... it's NEW CATALOGUE TIME!!!

At the end of June, I get to purge my stampin' space of all the lovelies that Stampin' Up! is retiring ... AND I've been given a demonstrator's sneak peek at the new 2011-2012 Idea Book and Catalogue ... I even got to pre-order some of the amazing new stuff that will be filling the new catty's pages! (I love my job - I mean PLAY .. hubby's right, lol).

So, what about you ... when can you get your hands on all of these goodies?

Well, for starters, if you pre-ordered your new catalogue through me last month ... they're here, so come and get 'em!!

If you want a catalogue and didn't pre-order ... you'll just have to attend my NEW CATALOGUE LAUNCH on Saturday, July 9th, from 10 am to 1 pm! Yep, the big white tent sale is NOT on Canada Day this year, and actually you won't even see the white tent this year ... but everything else about this annual extravaganza will be in place:

• the first thing you see when you arrive at my house will be tables and tables of retired Stampin' Up! product: stamp sets, designer series papers, inks, wheels, embellishments, ribbons ... as well as misc. "things to stamp on", card stock salad bags, grab bags of retired card samples, old catalogues, a few non-Stampin' Up! stamps (gasp!) and some unfinished paper projects looking for a new home ... and it's all priced to go!
• when you arrive you can shop the tables and bag up your treasures; one of my helpers will total things up for you and hand you your shiny new copy of the 2011-2012 Catalogue and an order form.
• Then, come around the corner, find a seat in the shade and a cold lemonade and peruse the catty to your heart's content. Here's the exciting part: if you place an order on July 9th for the same amount of money as the retired goodies in your bag - then the whole bagful goes home with you FOR FREE!
• When you're ready to place your order, come on inside the house where I'll be waiting to assist you with totalling, taxes and payment options. If we have a line-up, you can do a quick make & take project using some of the brand new goodies from my pre-order while you wait your turn.
• And of course, it wouldn't be a Scrappin' with Donna Open House unless there was a draw, and prizes, and a display of new products and new projects, and a very special treat for those who sign up for one of my Fall clubs or classes, or for those who book an in-home workshop featuring the new catalogue!
• If you are interested, I will also be selling some fixtures from my Stampin' Studio/Classroom on July 9th ... stuff like tables, a counter top, storage containers, white boards, and more ... all the things that won't fit into my much smaller stampin' space in the new house. And since moving day is July 15th, any of these larger items will need to be taken home with you ... the Studio is the last room to be packed up - and I have to start the morning after this sale!
• Lastly, my daughter is participating in the "Weekend to End Women's Cancers" and to help her raise money for her hefty entry fee, we'll be selling individually wrapped baked goods, so please bring your appetite! Pledge sheets will also be on site, if this is a cause you'd like to support without the extra calories <grin>

Excited as I am for July 9th to roll around? It won't be long now ....

cheers,

 

RETIRING BIG SHOT GOODIES

One section of Stampin' Up!'s RETIRING ACCESSORIES LIST is devoted to the Sizzix Big Shot die cutting machine - here you'll find the dies & Texturz Plates that will be retired June 30th to make room for new product in the upcoming 2011-2012 Idea Book & Catalogue...

If you need any of these dies for your Big Shot collection, better order them quickly, because they are available only while current stock lasts!

PG 206, #113472: Circle 3-D Ornament Bigz Die - $26.95
PG 206, #113473: 5-Point 3-D Star Bigz Die - $26.95

PG 207, #114523: Decorative Accents Bigz Die - 25% OFF, NOW $20.21
PG 207, #114532: Telephone & Address Bigz Clear Die - 25% OFF, NOW $20.21             PG 207, #114534: Flower Bigz Clear Die - 25% OFF, NOW $20.21

PG 208, #113483: Pennant Bigz XL Die - 40% OFF, NOW $32.37
PG 208, #116819: Table Setting Bigz XL Die - 40% OFF, NOW $34.77

PG 209, #113484: Baskets & Blooms Bigz XL Die - 25% OFF, NOW $40.46
PG 209, #115961: Perfect Setting Bigz XL Die - 40% OFF, NOW $34.77
PG 209, #115966: Pop-Up Look Here Bigz XL Die - 40% OFF, NOW $34.77
PG 209, #116760: Pop-Up Three Tier Cake Bigz XL Die - 40% OFF, NOW $32.37
PG 209, #116822: O Christmas Tree Pop-Up Bigz XL Die - 40% OFF, NOW $34.77

PG 210, #114530: Flower Blossom Sizzlits Die - $6.95
PG 210, #115973: Joyful Sizzlits Die - 40% OFF, NOW $4.50
PG 210, #115974: Curves Ahead Sizzlits Die - 25% OFF, NOW $5.62
PG 210, #116823: Merry Details Sizzlits Die - 25% OFF, NOW $5.62
PG 210, #118140: Tree Decorations Sizzlits Die - 40% OFF, NOW $4.50

PG 211, #113448: Hearts Set Sizzlits Die Pack - $26.95
PG 211, #113485: Birds & Blooms Sizzlits Die Pack - 40% OFF, NOW $17.97
PG 211, #114509: Big Bold Cupcakes Sizzlits Die Pack - $29.95

PG 212, #113450: Go Go Boots Alphabet Medium Sizzlits Dies - 25% OFF, NOW $70.46
PG 212, #113452: Join in the Cheer Sizzlits Decor. Strip Die - 40% OFF, NOW $17.97
PG 212, #113456: Swirly Sizzlits Decorative Strip Die -$26.95

PG 213, #115955: Hearts & Brackets Originals Die - $23.95

PG 215, #114514: Simple Flower Embosslits Die - 40% OFF, NOW $9.57
PG 215, #114516: Cherry Blossom Embosslits Die - 40% OFF, NOW $9.57
PG 215, #114531: Texturz Plates Kit #4 Texturz Plates - $13.25
PG 215, #115952: Hi Embosslits Die - 40% OFF, NOW $9.57
PG 215, #115957: Thanks Embosslits Die - 40% OFF, NOW $9.57
PG 215, #116820: Merry Embosslits Die - 25% OFF, NOW $11.96

PG 217, #117327: Beary Hoppy Sizzlits Die - 25% OFF, NOW $5.96
PG 217, #117979: Kooky Spooky Originals Die - 25% OFF, NOW $19.46
PG 217, #117980: Beary Merry Orginals Die - $25.95
PG 217, #117981: Beary Boy Sizzlits Die - $7.95
PG 217, #117982: Beary Girl Sizzlits Die - 25% OFF, NOW $5.96
PG 217, #117983: Pawsitively Embosslits Die - $15.95
PG 217, #117984: Li'l Paws Embosslits Die - $15.95
PG 217, #117987: Beary Lovely Sizzlits Die - 25% OFF, NOW $5.96

This list is current as of Saturday June 11 @ 10 pm. Visit my online store to confirm availability of your retiring accessories at the time of your order. If you prefer to place an order with me via phone or email, please list your second and third choices for each retiring die.

cheers

 

PAPER JUNKIE AND PROUD OF IT!

Yes, I DO love paper ... especially Designer Series Paper collections from Stampin' Up!

I can't wait to see all the new designs of DSP we'll have to collect and play with once the new 2011-2012 Idea Book & Catalogue comes out on July 1st ... and I'm extra excited that we get one LAST CHANCE to buy more of our favourites from the current catty before they're gone at the end of June.

Even better ... Stampin' Up! has put some of the retiring DSP on sale! Check out the list below and place your order with me quickly - once the current stock is gone, that's it folks, no more.

List of retiring Designer Series Papers, as of June 6, 2011; 11 am:

pg 172 #117165: Nursery Suite Specialty Designer Series Paper - $14.95
pg 172 #117175: Presto Patterns Specialty Designer Series Paper - 25% off - $11.21
pg 172 #117390: Sweet & Sour Specialty Designer Series Paper - $14.95
pg 172 #117400: Wicked Fun Specialty Designer Series Paper - 40% off - $8.97

pg 173 #117162: Love Letter Designer Series Paper - $12.50
pg 173 #117164: Celebrations Designer Series Paper - $12.50
pg 173 #117167: Greenhouse Gala Designer Series Paper - $12.50
pg 173 #117389: Woodland Walk Designer Series Paper - $12.50

pg 174 #117159: Jolly Holiday Designer Series Paper - $12.50
pg 174 #117392: Blueberry Crisp Designer Series Paper - $12.50
pg 174 #119831: Sunny Garden Designer Series Paper - $12.50
pg 174 #120436: Lap of Luxury Designer Series Paper - 25% off - $9.38

pg 175 #117163: Elegant Soiree Designer Series Paper - 25% off - $9.38
pg 175 #117166: Newsprint Designer Series Paper - $12.50
pg 175 #117168: Play Date Designer Series Paper - 40% off - $7.50
pg 175 #117396: Build-a-Bear Workshop Pawsitively Prints II Designer Series Paper - 25% off - $9.38

cheers

LAST CHANCE PRODUCTS from STAMPIN' UP!

Today's the day ... June 1st ... Stampin' Up! has released THREE lists of products that will be available only until June 30th 2011 (or in some cases, only while current supply lasts) ... if you click on the list titles below, you'll open a PDF copy of each list - you can save 'em to your computer or print 'em off for easy reference. Please read the ordering information below - the details do vary for each of the lists:

1. Retiring Stamp Sets: last chance stamp orders are guaranteed to be fulfilled up to June 30th... check your old wishlists to make sure you get your must-haves before they are retired.
2. Retiring Accessories: products are on this list are only available while supplies at the warehouse last - and some may sell out quickly, especially since some items have been discounted 25% to 40%. I'm only posting this list once as it will be changing daily & I won't be able to keep up. Your best bet is to place your order from this list through my online store as that will always be up-to-date. (Remember to make sure that my name is in the upper right hand corner of your shopping cart - not anywhere else on the screen - to get preferred pricing and my personal assistance with your order!) Or, if you are emailing/phoning me with your Last Chance Accessories order, be sure to give me a couple of second or even third choices in case the item you want is sold out.
3. Retiring Decor Elements (vinyl wall art): Stampin' Up! is reducing the Definitely Decorative product line quite a bit, so the last-chance Definitely Decorative list is very long. They don't anticipate running out of any of these items, but just in case, Stampin' Up! is saying that they are only available while supplies last. A couple of items have been discounted 25% to 40%. This list has no photos, so you may want to write in your Definitely Decorative brochure which items are retiring so you can easily see at a glance which items will no longer be available after June 30. (If you need a Definitely Decorative brochure, let me know - I still have some here!)
4. Dormant List: There is a very small list of products that will not be shown in the 2011-2012 Idea Book & Catalogue, but that will still be available for purchase all through the life of that catalogue, so until June 30, 2012. I'll have a link to that list as soon as it's available.

If you have any questions, or need help placing your order (Canada only, please) - give me a shout; that's what I'm here for!

cheers

ANNOUNCING A NEW REWARD PROGRAM!

 

I love my regular customers – you deserve a reward program, so starting May 15^th, 2011 here's how it's going to work:

• For every $30 you order through me online or in person, you'll receive one point.

• When you have accumulated ten points, I'll give you a free stamp set of YOUR choice!

• There's no time limit … you can accumulate points from one catalogue year to the next … or if you place a $200 + order all at once, you'll also get free Hostess benefits!

• The $30 is calculated BEFORE shipping and taxes are added in.

• Orders cannot be combined to reach the $30 mark (for example if you order $73 you earn two points and the extra amount ($13 in the example) is forfeited and does NOT carry over to your next purchase.

• NOTE: Stamp Club minimum orders, tape dispensers & 2 sided tape orders, Hostess credits, and any specials I may offer through the year do not earn points. Everything else you order (including purchases of Stampin' Up! promotions) will get you one point for every $30 you spend!

• It's up to you to keep track of your purchases and points  - just click on the link below to print off your personal tracking form. When you have reached TEN POINTS, just fill in your information, send me this sheet and I'll order your free stamp set!

Download 2011 REWARD PROGRAM - PERSONAL TRACKING FORM

This offer is solely through Donna Henley, Independent Stampin' Up! Demonstrator.

Questions and completed forms should be directed to [email protected]

 

ANOTHER NEW CLASS IN MAY

I just took another look at May's 30% off sale with Stampin' Up! and got to thinking how the Printed Petals stamp set (2010-2011 IB&C, pg 106) would make a great little product class .. so here goes:

WHEN: Saturday, May 28 - between 9 am & 2 pm

WHERE: My Stampin' Studio - don't mind the packing boxes; I'm still operational! (wink)

WHAT: You'll receive your own "Printed Petals" stamp set, the pre-cut materials to make 5 easy cards, and a baggie of assorted embellishments .. use 'em on your cards or keep 'em for another project at home!

PRICE: All this for only $25 (clear-mount stamp set is included, at the sale price of $12.57. If you prefer wood-mount, there is an extra $5.00 charge)

The cards should take 1-1/2 hours at most to make, so you can pick your own start time (anywhere between 9 am - 2 pm) and still have the rest of the day to fit in your Saturday errands & activities!

Call or email me to book your start time & I'll order your stamp set in advance - my deadline to order for this class is Monday May 23rd.

cheers

 

A CHEERFUL TREAT

I just made this tri-fold card using MY DIGITAL STUDIO software from Stampin' Up! and the Level One Hostess reward, the CHEERFUL TREAT Digital CD ... and the most recent pictures of my grandbaby ...

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Want to try out MY DIGITAL STUDIO for yourself? Let's book an hour or so and I'll show you just how easy it is to design your own card, page, framed art, tag, newsletter, or book!

And if you like what we create in our time together, you can get it printed through Stampin' Up!'s professional services for 30% off - but only until May 31st, so call or email me soon to get your private MDS session!

cheers

WHAT'S YOUR FAVOURITE?

The new SUMMER MINI CATALOGUE from Stampin' Up! just came out on May 1st ... have you seen it yet?

I want to know what your favourites are ... leave me a comment on this blog post and let's see if we can predict what the most popular item will be! And everyone who leaves me a comment between now and May 15th will go into a draw for a free stamp from page 11 of the Summer Mini - your choice!

  Here's the online Mini ... just click on the photo to open it up on your computer screen ... or if you're like me and you need the real thing in your own two hands, give me a shout and I'll get a copy to you, pronto! (anywhere in Canada)

PS - don't forget to drop by the STAMP & CROP OUT CANCER event this SATURDAY MAY 7th between 10 am - 4 pm. For a $5 donation at the door, you can shop our crafty clearance table, bid at the Silent Auction, do a FREE Make & Take project, check out our Vendors' tables, and if you're there between 12:30 & 1:30 you can even STREAK FOR CANCER! All proceeds are for the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation, Ontario Division.

cheers

 

BEGINNINGS AND ENDINGS

Just popping in on a supper break during today's OPEN STUDIO DAY, which continues until 10 pm tonight - R U COMING OVER?

I'm sending in one last order for April, so if you want to take advantage of the promotions ending April 30th, now's your chance. Also, Stampin' Up! announced today that their May promotion is starting early ... like NOW - wahoo!!

Here is everything that's ending and beginning this weekend.. call me ASAP with your orders!

OCCASIONS MINI CATALOGUE - ends April 30th. Have you got everything from your wishlist yet?

SPRING IS BLOSSOMING PROMO - ends April 30th; spend just $25 and you can buy 2 great new products that won't be released to the general public until July 1st!

NATIONAL SCRAPBOOK MONTH SALES PROMO - starts today, April 29th; get 30% off select scrapbooking stamp sets and select digital download bundles

NATIONAL SCRAPBOOK MONTH RECRUITING PROMO - purchase the Digital+ Starter Kit valued at $375 for only $150.50 Canadian! Plus, you can also get the Stampers Memories Add-On Kit valued at more than $95 for only $42 Canadian! Offer ends May 31st - join my team of Artful*Inkers and I'll get you started on your digital journey!

 

HOW MANY PROJECTS CAN ONE STAMPER HAVE ON THE GO?

Sounds like the start of a bad joke, like ... how many stampers does it take to ... never mind.

I'm one of those gals who can't finish anything in one sitting ... as a result, I have TOO MANY unfinished projects on the go on any given day (week, month, even year!)

Funny thing, but In the last six days (coincidently the same length of time my dear daughter has gone past her due date to deliver my precious grandbaby) ... I've had the urge to pick up several half finished projects and as they say, "get 'er done"

So I thought I'd share what I've managed to finish this past week or so ... and I'd love to hear your comments: are you a multi-tasker like me, or one of those "must-finish-this-before-I-start-that" type of crafter? (I can't imagine what that lifestyle would even feel like!)

 

First, a quick card I made for my son-in-law's birthday earlier in March ... with a retired set from Stampin' Up! that fits our family's activities so well that I kept it in my stash. SiL is an avid canoer, camper & fisherman ... I tied the bike onto the back of the jeep to represent all the kiddy stuff he's gonna have to start taking along on their camping trips <grin>

 

 

 

 

 

 

Next - here's a super fun and easy pop-up card that I found online and used as one of the make & take projects at my team's March meeting.

It starts with an 8x8" piece of card stock, add some scoring, glue one corner, and decorate to your heart's content - couldn't be easier! We used the "Ice Cream Parlor" designer series papers, self-adhesive die cuts, printed ribbon and buttons - all of which are FREE with purchase during SALE-A-BRATION this month - gotta love the free stuff!!

Next up is a personal favourite .. this bookmark was our second make & take project at March's Artful*Inkers Team meeting .. designed and presented by Joanna.

I love the bright colours that Joanna used - this also looks great in Pacific Point, Daffodil Delight, Old Olive, and Melon Mambo - all from the Brights Collection, which coordinated perfectly with the stack of Brights Patterned Designer Series Papers ... clever girl, our Joanna!

 

We used five different Stampin' Up! punches to make this - can you name them all?

I loved the bookmark project so much that I added it to the roster for my "Mom & Me" March Break class, held last Wednesday afternoon. We all wore hats (for the Mad Hatter Tea Party theme) and decorated them with these flowers, made on the Sizzix Big Shot die-cutting machine:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Our final project at the "Mom & Me" class was a Friendship Book .. a mini scrapbook made from plain drink coasters bound together using my little sprial binding machine.

The girls had a grand old time choosing their papers, ink colours and chipboard embellishments to give each book it's own special touches.

Of course, we had to leave room inside to add photos of our best friends later, along with lists of our favourite movies this year, books we've read, and anything else we wanted to remember about 2011!

Then we wrapped up the afternoon with a tea party upstairs in my dining room .. I wish I had gotten photos of everyone who came; but here's one of the person who travelled the farthest to attend!

Thank you all for sharing part of your March Break vacation crafting with me!

Ok, more projects to share tomorrow ... for now, make sure you've ordered all the freebies you want out of the Sale-a-Bration brochure 'cause it ends March 31st.

Also, this Wednesday is the last day to register for our final session of the Techniques Stamp Camp - this time to be held in Waterloo on Sat April 2nd.

And I'm still offering 10% off orders placed before my grandbaby arrives .. something tells me you shouldn't dawdle on this one! <grin>

cheers

 

 

THE BIG DAY IS FINALLY HERE!

I've been counting down to March 15th ever since last December on the desk flip calendar that Stampin' Up! sells ... it only has 99 days on it or else I would have started the countdown nine months ago!

And now the BIG DAY is finally here! My baby girl is having a baby!!

Well, we might not see any action for a few more days, but at least her due date has arrived and momma and baby are in good health. Baby probably wants to see some more warm sunny days like we had today in Southern Ontario before he/she agrees to make her/his grand entrance.

So if you think I was suffering with the wait up til now ... you can imagine how tough it's gonna be as we go past the 15th, lol! March Madness, indeed! I need another mad idea to keep me from jumping out of my skin every time the phone rings, so here's what I have in mind for all of you ....

From today (March 15th) until the new little addition arrives, everyone who places an order gets 10% off their total*  - I know, I know ... babies can be up to 2 weeks overdue, but I'm willing to take that chance to let all of you celebrate with me and my family! The question is, are YOU willing to delay putting in your order and risk missing out on the 10% off!! <grin>

Here's one more incentive ... if my daughter gives birth on the same day your order is placed** then I will give you a free card kit of your choice, in ADDITION  to your 10% off!

(Orders can be emailed to me, phoned in or you can shop online through the link to my store at the top of this page. *TOTAL IS before shipping, handling & taxes are added on. **ORDER DATE is the date that I receive payment from you. Payment can be made by credit card, cheque or cash. Just keep in mind that once THE phone call comes, I'll be heading out of town for a few days - so I'll arrange an alternate drop off point if you choose to pay by cheque or cash.)

Let the celebrations begin!!!

 

 

 

NEW MARCH CLASS: "FRIENDLY WORDS"

Grandbaby number one is due in just five days, and the waiting is unbearable ... so I've just added a new class in March to help make the time go faster, lol. And due to my ongoing March madness, I'm giving away lots of extras with this class!

Join me on Tuesday March 22nd @ 7:30 pm for my "FRIENDLY WORDS" class ... featuring the "FRIENDLY WORDS" Stampin' Around Jumbo Wheel!

At this class you'll make a gift bag with tag, and four co-ordinating cards with envelopes to go inside  .. Stampin' Around wheels are a great complement to many stamp sets and projects! Let me show you how you can create 11 different techniques using our Stampin' Around Wheels at this class ... oh, and get this: the $25 class fee includes a "FRIENDLY WORDS" wheel to take home! (pg 138, 2010-2011 IB&C)

OPTIONAL: Bring a Jumbo Handle if you own one, along with your favourite adhesive, bone folder, paper snips or scissors, and paper trimmer with scoring blade. New to paper crafting and you don't own all of these basic tools? No problem - I have some you can use during this class; and if you order any of the above at this class, I'll give you 10% off the regular catalogue price!

PLUS: everyone who attends will receive a FREE surprise bag of 10 hand-stamped cards/card fronts; you can use them to send to friends, or just for ideas & inspiration when you stamp your own.

Call or email me to register for this class ASAP, so that your "FRIENDLY WORDS" wheel will be here in time for class.

cheers

WELCOME TO MARCH MADNESS!!

Whether it's the winter weather, or whether it's waiting for my grandbaby to be born ... I'm thinkin' that the month of MARCH is going to d-r-a-a-a-a-g-g-g-g-g ... on and on and on ... until it drives me MAD!

Soooo, I've decided to shake things up a bit here in the blog-o-sphere with a whole lot of

MARCH MADNESS!!

For starters, every order of Stampin' Up! product I receive in the month of March is going to get a FREE blank card kit, retail value $5.00!

Each kit contains six blank cards, six envelopes, six 5-1/4"x4" sheets of Designer Series papers and 2 yards of co-ordinating ribbon or trim. Use any stamps & embellishments you own to make 'em YOUR WAY!

This goes for EVERY order I receive (Canadian Residents only) - online, email, in-class, in-club ... even if you hand me an order when we bump into each other at Tim Horton's! <grin>

Oh, and if you like the blank card kit idea, I have a TON of them for sale, too ... all at $5.00 per kit. Just let me know what your favourite colours are, and I'll do my best to oblige.

OK, that's my moment of MADNESS for today ... tune in tomorrow,

March 2nd to see what I'm gonna do next!

cheers

SALE-A-BRATE WHILE YOU STILL CAN

ADDICTIVE BEHAVOUR

OK, these "Make It From Scraps" cards are just waaaaay too much fun! I thought I'd make up a second set to display at tonight's class - just to give folks a starting point to work from ... next thing I knew it, the afternoon was gone! Good thing I have a ton of pre-cut kits already prepared, 'cause I think you're gonna want more than just the twelve we'll be making in class!

There are still a few seats available for tonight's class @ 7:30 pm ... or you can catch the second one on Thursday March 10th ... just give me a call or quick email to save your seat. Better yet, get a few friends together and I'll bring this class to your home!

Click here to see my first set of cards (they're totally different; all pink & feminine!)

Click here for full class details ... then register you and your friends!

cheers,

DON'T THROW THAT OUT!

Doesn't excessive packaging just make you burn? It's a pet peeve of mine ... why can't manufacturers keep their product packaging simple so we have less to throw out?

Usually the "GREEN ME" will always choose the product with the least packaging ... but one time I actually bought a package of pens BECAUSE of the package they came in. I knew as soon as I saw this thick plastic base with multi-divided sections - AND wrapped in a clear plastic case - that I wanted to make it into a pretty desk accessory! (I think it was at this point in our shopping expedition that my dear hubby rolled his eyes and walked away)

So, in a photo tutorial - here's what my "inner eye" saw in that store, and how it all turned into a nice little pen holder that I plan to give to my mother. She's having a lot of home support visitors right now, and is always searching for a pen to write down their names and appointments. This one's for you, Ma! (As always, just click on each photo if you want a close-up look)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Starting at the far left with a photo of the original product in its packaging ... I took it apart and cut off the top of the clear sleeve - then I decided to slip the pen holder base back inside the clear sleeve so I coudl trace a pen line to cut it exactly the same height.

I reassembled it to see how I did (I slipped an envelope in between the two layers so you can see where I'm heading with this idea, wink)

I knew I wanted to use Stampin' Up!'s new "Springtime Vintage" Designer Papers (#121782, pg 15 Occasions Mini) because I thought of my mom the first time I saw these prints; they're sooo "her"!

Through some measuring, some guessing and a lot of trimming, I finally determined what size to make the four patterened squares so that they could have a 1/4" mat of Rose Red card stock showing from behind.

And on the right - the finished project ... easy peasy! I'm tempted to add some "Chantilly Crochet Trim" (#118480, pg 190 IB&C) and maybe a 'Trinket Key or Trinket Crown (#121891 & #121892, pg 24 Occasions Mini) before I deliver it to mom later this week - don't you think it needs a little bling?

Gee, I wish I had a few more of these packages ... I'd love to make one with the "Sweet Stitches" Designer Papers (#121781, pg 32 Occasions Mini) to keep my sewing tools neat & organized! For that matter, "Botanical Gazette" or "First Edition" Designer Papers would make a great pen holder for my hubby's desk - a daily reminder that he should never doubt my "inner eye" (GRIN!)

cheers 

TRIPLETS?

I know, this is my third post this week about making mini cards ... I can't help myself, lol. Once you start on these little devils, they become sooooo addictive!

 

 

 

 (click on the photos to make them larger)

 

 

 

 

Here are a couple of my favourite little cards - both on a baby theme, naturally ... and the most recent photo of my daughter (the gal on the right) and her long-time childhood friend, taken Sunday at a baby shower.

Both girls are expecting their first child; my daughter in due in 3 weeks (OMG!!!) and her friend's baby will be here about a month later. This was the first time the girls have seen each other in 20 years, and we're all going to meet up again (grandmas and mommas!) after the babies are born ... I can't wait!!!!

Oh, and the title of this post? I was just referring to the third post in a row about making mini cards ... there are NO multiple births in our near future - gotcha!

cheers

 

MORE LITTLE ONES

Every time I finish a bigger paper crafting project, I try to take a few minutes to make some quick mini cards with the leftover bits of paper and cardstock before I put everything away. Hey, all the coordinating stuff is already there in front of me, and it keeps my "scrap pile" from growing, so why not?

Mini cards are great to have on hand ... tie one to a bottle of wine, slip a note into someone's lunchbox or briefcase, add to a bouquet of flowers, use as gift tags -  there's no limit to the ways you can use these little treasures!

 

All of today's samples start with a 3x6" piced of card stock, folded in half. With the exception of the pink ribbons in the third photo, everything shown here came from Stampin' Up! (some Designer Papers and stamps are retired)

cheers

THINK SMALL

I've always loved to create mini cards - call 'em gift cards, tags, note cards, what have you .. small sized cards are great because:

• they're a great way to use up leftovers from a larger project
• you can make a whole bunch in just a matter of minutes
• the smaller surface means you don't need a lot of details to make them pop
• they're versatile .. just change the feel by changing the sentiment

 

 

 

 

 

 

Give it a try ... start with a 3x6", 4x8", or 5-1/2x4-1/4" piece of card stock, fold it in half, grab your bits & pieces, and think SMALL!

Happy Family Day to everyone in Ontario and Alberta,

MAKE IT FROM SCRAPS

The frugal stamper is very pleased with this weekend's creations ... I started out with an old issue of Sheetload of Cards from 2007 and I ended up putting together a class that shows you how to make tons of cards while using up your stash of leftover card stock, designer papers, ribbons and embellishments - you know, the stuff that's too small to make anything with but too pretty to throw away? <wink>

For this class you'll get to pick your favourite colours from a large selection of pre-cut pieces. When you go home, you'll have 12 finished cards and envelopes for a variety of occasions, plus the cutting pattern and the know-how to make many more cards with stuff you already have at home!

This class is a more relaxed format than my usual fare ... it's easy because you start with a basic card layout and yet it offers you the chance to try out several ways to step-it-up just a little - and all while you are using up leftovers from other projects!

Oh, and if you have a stash of embellishments you want to use up, feel free to bring that to class - buttons, brads, ribbon bits, rhinestones, whatever you've got on hand! If you don't have a lot of embellishments, don't worry; I have plenty of odds and sods to share. If you do bring your stash, you'll have the opportunity to swap stuff with your classmates so everyone can go home with more of a variety!

I'll supply everything else - pre-cut designer paper and card stock pieces, blank cards & envelopes, stamps & inks, adhesives, punches, sponges, inspiration boards and instruction sheets. Plus, everyone gets 3 metres of 1/8" wide taffeta ribbon & 3 sponge wedges from Stampin' Up! to use during the class and to keep afterwards!

These cards are easy to make, easy to embellish, and easy to re-create at home when you need to make more. I'll show you ways to embellish using what you already have in your stash - and YOU choose whether to keep your cards simple or step-it-up with sponging, corner rounding, distressing, etc, etc... I'll have all kinds of samples to help you decide, so bring your camera.

DATE: Monday Feb 28 or Thursday March 10th

TIME: 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm

COST: $25 per person or 2/$40 when you bring a friend!

Call me: 519-823-8891 or email me: [email protected] to register for this class - tell me which evening you're coming, who you're bringing with you (if you want the discount price), and how you want to pay for your class ... cheque, cash or credit card (thorugh PayPal) are all accepted.

cheers,

 

 

FREE CHALKBOARD

I just installed Stampin' Up!'s newest Chalkboard Decor Elements piece in my office ... take a look! It's made of chalkboard-treated vinyl and it's 16" tall by 8' wide; plenty of room for writing down my to-do list.

I got this for free through Stampin' Up!'s SALE-A-BRATION promotion - just by ordering $60 worth of products, I got to choose one of eight new products in the SAB brochure (or I could have chosen one of 69 different stamp sets from the current 2010-2011 Idea Book & Catalogue - all 69 are listed in the back of the SAB brochure.)

I love me some FREE stuff - don't you? now's the time to stock up on the craft supplies you need, so you can get your freebies too ... SALE-A-BRATION ends March 31st, so call or email me or shop through my online store SOON!

 

cheers

BRILLIANT IDEA FOR VALENTINE TREATS

Good morning! I'm here in my studio for a 12 hour marathon session today .. it's one of my three OPEN STUDIO DAYS that I've scheduled for January. If you're in the neighbourhood, drop by for coffee and a card ($2), or to work on your own projects - you can use my stamps and tools while you're here!

I thought I'd start my day with a quick inspirational blog hop through my downlines' blogs to see what Valentine ideas they've come up with. Here's one I had to share with all of you right away - it's perfect to make for inexpensive class valentines, especially if you want to include a treat but you hate to think of the kids ripping your creation apart in a frenzy to get to the sugar (how's that for a visual image? LOL)

My downline ANDREA WALFORD spotted this project by Susan on the Scrapyland blog, then modified it to make it her own design - I LOVE IT! If you follow my link to Andrea's blog, she has a video tutorial and a PDF instruction sheet that you can download too! Oh, and if you decide to join her brand new Paper Crafters' Library - tell her Donna sent you <grin>

cheers

 

NEW ROUND OF BIG SHOT CLUB IN JANUARY

I'm starting another 4 month round of the Big Shot club this month and I'm looking  for one more person to fill the last spot.

WHY JOIN? HERE ARE THE PERKS:

• 4 FREE classes/Big Shot projects/handouts/tips and ideas/hands on experience
• 4 FREE Sizzlit dies (one per class)
• 1 month of FREE Hostess Benefits
• membership in the ONLINE CLUBHOUSE, with swaps/free project sheets/photo gallery & more!

HOW MUCH TO JOIN? Choose either option A or B:

a) pay $45 per month (Jan - Apr 2011)and you'll get your own Big Shot die cutting machine

or

b) a $45 min order per month (Jan - Apr 2011) of Big Shot dies or anything else from the current catalogues

Are YOU the person to fill the last spot? Call or email me to grab it!

NOTE: If you are currently in the 40 carat Club and would like to switch, give me a shout and we'll work something out so you don't lose any of your current perks.

Come on, be a Big Shot ... you know you wanna!

cheers

 

SAY GOODBYE

... to Stampin' Up!'s HOLIDAY MINI catalogue; the last day to order is January 3rd (gasp, that's coming up fast!)

Why not take advantage of my ongoing BOXING WEEK SALE to get the last of your favourites from the best HOLIDAY MINI we've had to date - hey, it's a frugal-good time to stock up for next Christmas!

cheers

FRUGAL STAMPERS WANTED

Need to make your crafting dollars stretch a little farther this time of year? Here's the solution!

It's time for my annual BOXING WEEK SPECIAL ...

Place your Stampin' Up! order this week with me as your demonstrator and collect your freebies:

• $40 orders get one FREE Anywhere Glue Stick
• $80 orders get the glue stick AND one FREE Blender Pen
• $120 orders get the glue stick AND the blender pen AND a FREE pkg of Stampin' Dimensionals 
• $160 orders get the glue stick AND the blender pen AND Stampin' Dimensionals AND a FREE Classic Ink Pad in the colour of your choice
• $200 orders get all of the above AND a FREE level one Hostess Gift AND $20 in FREE product of your choice

(All amounts refer to merchandise totals before taxes and shipping - from any/all current Stampin' Up! catalogues, brochures, and promotions including the 2010-2011 Idea Book & Catalogue, the Definitely Decorative brochure, the Holiday Mini brochure, the Clearance Rack, and the Filled With Love promotion. Orders placed online will not show your free merchandise listed above, but your freebies will be shipped to you in a separate package! If you prefer, email or phone your order in to me!)

This BOXING WEEK SPECIAL is only available through Donna Henley 

and ends at midnight Monday January 3rd.

So what are you waiting for? It's time to join the ranks of the Frugal Stampers ... happy shopping and Happy New Year!

cheers

FILLED WITH LOVE!

Stampin' Up! has launched a new promotion today ... it's time to think of (gasp) Valentine's Day!

Promotion dates: December 17, 2010 - January 24, 2011

Valentine's Day is the second biggest holiday for sending cards, and during the Filled with Love promotion, you can get an exclusive package of Designer Series Paper perfect for creating cards for family, friends, classmates, and more!

Wait, there's more!

From December 17, 2010 through January 24, 2011, get a FREE package of Bitty Buttons (a $6.50 value) when you purchase an exclusive Filled with Love Bundle!

Description	Wood-Mount Item	Wood-Mount Price	Clear-Mount Item	Clear-Mount Price
Filled with Love Bundle Contains the Filled with Love Set* and Love Patterns Designer Series Paper Pack	124380	$40.45	124381	$33.45
Lleno de Amor Bundle Contains the Lleno de Amor Set* and Love Patterns Designer Series Paper Pack	124382	$40.45	124383	$33.45
Plein d'amour Bundle Contains the Plein d'amour Set* and Love Patterns Designer Series Paper Pack	124384	$40.45	124385	$33.45
Love Patterns Designer Series Paper Pack (non-bundled) 12 sheets total: three 12" x 12" sheets of two double-sided designs in Real Red and Pretty in Pink	124156	$12.50	---	---

*Featured on p. 43 of the 2010 Holiday Mini Catalogue

Order it now and tuck it away until after Christmas ... that way you'll have lots of time to create those special Valentines and gifts in January! Don't get caught in a rush for Valentines Day again this year!

cheers

ABC's OF A HANDMADE HOLIDAY: SALE ENDS THURSDAY

 

Last call for all the great holiday bundles at 20% off ... Stampin' Up!'s sale ends Thursday Dec 16th! Just click on the photo above to see the promotion details.

You can order up til midnight tomorrow using my ONLINE STORE, or if you prefer - email me with your order by 9 pm and I'll send it in for you.

I'll be sharing a new promotion with you on Friday December 17th ... mum's the word until then!

cheers