Stamping & Creativity Journal

Stamping for the Holidays

2011-11-28T15:23:00.000-05:00

Stamping for the Holidays

Come by my place, enjoy some hot cocoa, and stamp a set of cards to give to that special someone, or stamp a stack of cards to send.
Class fee of $25 includes envelopes, adhesive, and all materials.

Option A: stamp 12 Christmas/ winter cards.

Option B: stamp 2 sets of 5 cards, includes clear card boxes for packaging. (Two gift packs of 5 cards = 10 cards total.)

Please give me advance notice of 24-48 hours so I can prepare your materials. Let me know which day and which option you would like.

Space is limited, so sign up soon.

Friday, December 2, 2:30-4:30

Saturday, December 3, 10:00-1:00

Saturday, December 10, 10:00-1:00

Monday, December 12, 5:00-7:30

Friday, December 16, 2:30-4:30

RSVP: bassemjudith@gmail.com

Library Craft Fair

2011-11-15T20:07:00.000-05:00

Please join me at Otis Library on Saturday, November 19th for the Holiday Craft & Book Fair.

I'll have greeting cards for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and other occasions.

Hand-crafted card sets are a perfect gift or stocking stuffer.

Check out my sweet gift tags for Hanukkah and Christmas.

Give your Holiday table that extra special touch with hand-stamped placecards.

Stop by and make a monogrammed magnet too!

I look forward to seeing you there!

Breast Cancer Awareness Event

2011-10-26T20:48:00.001-04:00

You’re invited to come stamp a free card for

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Come stamp a beautiful card and help stamp out breast cancer.

For each person that comes, I will donate $1 to the Backus Circles of Care Fund for Breast Cancer Awareness.

Dates: October 21(Fri), 24(Mon), or 28 (Fri).

Where: Judith’s Stamping Studio

When: anytime between 2:30-4:00

Please RSVP so I can prepare materials for you:

bassemjudith@gmail.com

Easy Card Kit

2011-10-26T20:44:00.001-04:00

Do you like to do easy projects? Life can get busy, but somewhere in the back of our mind, we want to do something special for the people around us. A big creative project might be too overwhelming. These little card kits are perfect! They're easy; the project is finite. From pulling the kit out of the box, to finished product will only take 15 minutes. The only additional things you need are, adhesive, stamps,* and ink.*

*That is, if you want to add a greeting or sentiment.

There's a special running through Monday, if you buy two kits (you could get different ones if you want to branch out, or the same one if you really like it) you get a free coordinating stamp set.

Click here for more details.

Big Shot Giveaway!

2011-10-04T19:40:00.000-04:00

If you've thought about joining Stampin' Up!, but have stayed on the fence,

here's an offer to consider!

If you sign up as a demonstrator between 1 Oct - 31 Oct

you will receive a Big Shot* (a $100 value) for free!

Promotion Details

*or $100 of free stamping merchandise.

Punch Giveaway--Limited Time Offer

2011-09-27T20:57:00.000-04:00

Happy Autumn!

To celebrate this new season I'm giving away some large SU! punches.

For the first three online orders placed with me by September 29th, I'm giving away a large SU! punch. (Sorry, US orders only.)

Click here to browse and place an order.

Please email me if you have any questions or need any help.

bassemjudith@gmail.com

After you place your order, I will email you and ask which of the punches you prefer.

1. Large Heart Punch (whale tale punch style).

2. Circle Punch 2 1/2''

3. Scallop Border Punch (whale tale style punch)

Visit my online store.

Elegant Bat Mitzvah Card

2011-09-26T19:00:00.000-04:00

This is an elegant card I designed for a young girl who became a bat mitzvah.

The elegance could work for many special occasions.

Can you see the textures and the shimmer?

Contact me for your very own custom cards or card sets: bassemjudith@gmail.com

Cards starting at $5, card sets starting at $12.

Bar Mitzvah Custom Card

2011-09-24T23:14:00.000-04:00

So, here's another custom card:

I didn't have dsp or a stamp for the sentiment for what I wanted,

so I just designed them using My Digital Studio.

Stampin' Up! has some definition stamps, so I used that inspiration to include the definition of "bar mitzvah." I also wanted to include its literal definition, since my college professor taught me that it means son of the covenant. It's not something that happens to you; it's something you become.

Here you can see the details and the textures I added using My Digital Studio.

If you haven't used this software yet, come on over, and I'll let you play with mine so you can see how versatile it is.

It's easy to start with the simplified, downloadable software, MDS Express.

Check out the specs.

Then you can customize your software by adding the digital content that you'd like.

You can download anything from the Booster Pack, to one stamp set, to a suite of coordinating images, papers, and embellishments. Click here to see the newest downloads.

Email me if you're ready to request your own custom card:

bassemjudith@gmail.com

Mazel Tov Wow Card

2011-09-17T11:50:00.000-04:00

One of my best clients contacted me about making some custom bar & bat mitzvah cards.

So, here's one I designed for a young man.

I left room for writing a message to the recipient.

See how the phrase "mazel tov" opens like an accordion when the card is opened?

Here's the outside, front and back.

It ties closed with ribbon in the front.

Stamping Day

2011-08-22T20:43:00.001-04:00

Come stamp at my place for an hour or two or more this Wednesday, August 24th!
(Visit between 10:00 am-- 8:00 pm.)

Everyone who comes will get to make a personalized card.

If you want to make a bunch of cards with everything prepared, you may pay a class fee of $20.

If you want to use your own materials for your own projects, that's fine too.
Sometimes we just need the company of others to give us the excuse/ motivation to finally get to that project we have on our "list of things to do."

I'll provide light snacks, cucumber sandwiches, iced tea, etc.
I'll just ask for an hour off for dinner with my family (from 5:00-6:00).
Let me know if you plan on coming. Bring a friend or two.

Added to Etsy

2011-08-05T18:06:00.006-04:00

I added some elegant cards and monogram cards to my Etsy shop today.

Here's a quick sampling. For more cards and photos click the following link:
Check it out.

Elegant Cards

Monogram Cards

MDS Shower Invitation

2011-08-01T11:00:00.001-04:00

I have a love-hate relationship with paper.
I love feeling, buying, and creating with beautiful paper and cardstock. I've liked it since I was a child. As a young adult, I developed a love of stationery stores, and especially liked visiting them in other countries. (Paper and the sizes/ types available vary by country :-D.)

On the other hand, I'm terrible about maintaining a filing system, and am sometimes overwhelmed documents and mail. It's not too hard to decide what to keep or let go. The trouble is with what to do with the ones in the maybe/ I'll get to it pile, or the "to file" pile. Anyway, I do enjoy creating with paper and actually holding the fibers between my fingers.

Digital designing is fun, and has its place. My brother is a graphic designer and I appreciate what he skillfully creates with design programs. (He and I both have a solid foundation in drawing and visual arts and have developed these talents on paper way before trying our hand at them on the computer.) He is an awesome artist, and I have learned so much from him.

He uses digital designing all the time for his livelihood. I've only recently started using My Digital Studio from Stampin' Up!

My sister recently had a bridal shower, [or should I say we held a shower for her?]. I wanted to put a personal touch on her invitations, but needed to find a way to make 40+ invitations with one hand [while balancing a newborn with the other]. So I used MDS to design the invitations and then had them printed. My handwriting is compromised of late [you know, if my little one makes a sudden movement while I'm holding him and writing], so I even typed out the addresses and fed the envelopes through the printer. It was so easy to design them and whip them out.

I recommend this program to you, even if you have the use of both of your hands.

I can design invitations for you for that special occasion, or make personalized postcards or greeting cards for that special someone. Email me to set up a consultation: bassemjudith@gmail.com.

Wedding Shower Decorations & Favors

2011-07-30T14:15:00.006-04:00

So, I've been working on these for quite awhile,

and finally got to share them at my sister's bridal shower.

The vases are re-purposed bottles, made pretty with decor elements and ribbon.
(This project is easy enough to do with your children.)

My nieces help set up the flowers, since I had my arms full with my baby, and since they love to do big-girl things.

They did a beautiful job.

The paper lanterns are from Target. They have mini and large illuminated lantern strings.

I decorated this tub* with decor elements and cut the letters out of decor sheets using the Big Shot and letter-cutting dies.

*Also from Target.

The butterfly magnet favors were simple and fun to make as well.
It's nice that you can choose any color or pattern designer series paper to match your preference.

Contact me to schedule a class or workshop to teach you how to make these butterflies, decorate these vases, or your own custom projects.

Or click on the following links to order your very own craft supplies.
Big Shot (It's indispensable for favors, large quantity, multi-material, or personalized projects.)

Butterfly Magnets:
Butterfly Die
Butterfly Embosslits Folder
Magnetic Sheets
Designer Series Paper
Pearls & Gems
Shimmer Paint

Metal Tub:
Alphabet Die
Vinyl Sheets
Decor Elements

Vases:
Faith, Hope, Love, Life
Ribbon

How to Get a Permanent Discount

2011-07-13T16:40:00.009-04:00

Don't you love stamping and papercrafting?!
Don't you enjoy getting things on sale?!
You can get a permanent discount by becoming a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator.
It usually costs $175 for the regular starter kit, but for the month of July you may join for just $99!

$99 Starter Kit + Free Project Kit!

During July, you can join the Stampin' Up! family as a demonstrator for only $99! This limited time Starter Kit—valued at $185—comes with the following high-quality products:

Easy Events Clear-Mount Set*
Pennant Parade Wood-Mount Set*
Basic Black Classic Stampin' Pad
Old Olive Classic Stampin' Pad
Pumpkin Pie Classic Stampin' Pad
Real Red Classic Stampin' Pad
Brights 8-1/2" x 11" Assorted Card Stock
Just Add Cake Designer Series Paper*
Chocolate Chip 1/2" Scallop Dots Ribbon*
Note Cards (20)
Clear-Mount Block C
Blender Pen (1)
SNAIL Adhesive
Business supplies

*Brand new to the 2011-2012 Idea Book & Catalog!

Plus, join in July and get a FREE Christmas Keepsake project kit—a $40 value! Imagine an afternoon spent chatting with friends while creating something beautiful—isn't that what Stampin' Up! is all about? But act now because this special kit is only available as part of this limited-time offer.

Join Stampin' Up! in July and get brand-new products, including an exclusive project kit—all for just $99! Contact me to get started today.

Recent Photo Projects with My Digital Studio

2011-07-11T15:18:00.003-04:00

My Digital Studio is a fun software suite from Stampin' Up! that lets you design cards, calendars, invitations, scrapbook pages and much more.

Click here to find out more.

Here are a couple of projects that I made recently:

Get your own software now to get started on your very own projects.

Ordering Special

2011-06-17T09:12:00.002-04:00

Place an order with me or online between now and June 25th
and I will give you a card making kit with paper, envelopes, and embellishments for making 10 cards.

Also, for every $10 worth of merchandise you purchase [before tax and s & h]
I'll enter your name into a drawing for a package of bonus products:
"Because I Care" stamp set, a 2 1/2'' circle punch,and a roll of early espresso grosgrain ribbon.

For even deeper discounts, check out the clearance rack!
Remember, the retiring stamp sets are available through June 30th,
but the retiring products are available only until they run out.

Strength & Hope Breast Cancer Stamp for a Cure

2011-05-01T07:00:00.000-04:00

I'm honored to work with a company that is concerned about people, and not merely about how much they've got in the bank. Stampin' Up! is a company that is dedicated to making a difference in the community around us. They have been an active supporter of the Ronald McDonald House Charity for many years.
This year they are focusing on raising funds for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, dedicated to finding a cure for breast cancer. Check out this video for more information, and to see this beautiful and versatile stamp set, that will help bring hope and a cure. Contact me when you're ready to order your own Strength & Hope stamp set.

I'm still here

2011-04-25T18:12:00.002-04:00

Hello,
I've been missing in action for some time now, but it doesn't mean that I haven't been busy stamping up a storm. I've made lots and lots of projects that I'm looking forward to sharing with you. I just can't get them off of my camera right now, arrgh. Soon...
Happy spring! The weather is finally beautiful, thank God!

There are some sales over at Stampin' Up that you may want to take advantage of:
New items have just been added to the Clearance Rack!
They are also selling Grab Bags of retired product, while supplies last.

My Digital Studio- Elegant Friendship Card

2011-02-23T16:48:00.003-05:00

Hello, here's a sweet little card I designed with My Digital Studio. This software is available through Stampin' Up! and it's great for cards, scrapbooks, photo calendars, and more. I'm just starting to explore the possibilities! If you want to try it out, contact me so we can set a date when you can come over and experiment!

YouTube Video from Shelli

2011-02-16T15:56:00.002-05:00

Check out this video from Stampin' Up! founder Shelli Gardner:

Your very own workshop

2011-02-06T15:52:00.000-05:00

Gather with your friends for a fun and creative evening.

I'll personalize your gathering with the projects and techniques which interest you most.

My hostesses receive special benefits and gifts!
Click here to see my availability.

Winter Card Extravaganza

2011-02-05T15:34:00.003-05:00

Come to my Winter Card Extravaganza!

Make a card, sign up for prizes, and workshops. Receive the latest catalogs.
You'll get to use new stamps and tools! Bring a friend.
Let me know if you need directions to my house.

Your options:
Saturday, February 19th, between 11:00-1:00
Tuesday, February 22nd, between 3:00-5:00.

I look forward to seeing you and stamping with you!

More Butterflies on Etsy

2010-09-06T21:34:00.002-04:00

I've added more butterfly hair adornments to my Etsy shop. The first one already sold thanks to a dear friend in the Midwest!
Thanks to all of you who have clicked over from FaceBook to check them out!
Click here to check out my store.

Etsy!

2010-08-27T22:57:00.002-04:00

I finally opened a store with the online artisan community: Etsy!
(One of my summer goals... completed just before school starts again.)
Click here to visit my Etsy store!
Well, it's opened, but I only have one item up so far because I'm new and it's taking me a little while to get the photos to a manageable size so they will upload properly. So, please check back soon!

I appreciate all of you who insisted I open up my own Etsy shop, as well as those who encouraged and directed me along the way!

Daffodil Delight

2010-08-15T07:30:00.000-04:00

Here's a simple card using some of the new colors [Daffodil Delight and Pear Pizazz*] and accessories that are now available from the new catalog. I really like the narrow taffeta ribbon and the bright, sunny (and sometimes retro) patterns of the new designer series paper.

If you need help gaining access to the new catalog, simply email me and I will make sure you get one! bassemjudith@gmail.com

You still have time to place an online order to participate in my August Birthday Celebration Promotion! Get a catalog, make your wish-list, place your order, and have fun creating (and also giving/ sending your complimentary birthday cards)!

*Pear Pizazz is an In-Color and is available for the next two years. Daffodil Delight is part of the permanent collection.

Something Other Than Stamping-Painting

2010-08-11T18:44:00.000-04:00

I bought some canvases three years ago with the intention of painting a scene for my living room. Well, here they are. I finally got some deadline-creativity-motivation.

The idea is a Mediterranean countryside with an olive grove. I used gouache watercolor paints.

Stenciled Terra Cotta

2010-08-09T07:00:00.001-04:00

I've been doing some gardening/landscaping at my house and wanted to get some Italian urns for my front pathway or door. However, on a recent trip to IKEA with a friend, I saw these flower pots for $8 or $9 with the saucer. So, I thought I would use these instead, but just dress them up with a beautiful stencil from Stampin' Up! (If you are my mom, make sure you are close to a box of tissues before you continue reading.)

Did you know they have a line of beautiful stencils? This one is called Adornment. Because this is for an outside project, I needed to use an outdoor acrylic paint from my local craft store.

Click here to see more stencils from Stampin' Up!
My mother is one of the most important artists in my life (happy birthday, mom)! She explored many different artistic fields as a student and displayed her work for her children to enjoy. (Not only did we enjoy seeing her art, it also inspired us. One of my brothers pursued photography, and another brother is a graphic designer. Mom saw our artistic inclination and sent us to Saturday morning art classes when we were young.)

She learned to sew because her mother sewed very well. (Happy posthumous birthday Gran!) She taught us to sew as well, even though we're no where near as good as our grandmother; she'd roll over in her grave if she could see some of the shortcuts we take! So, the sewing I've been doing lately is because of my grandmother and mother.

Then my mother and her friend became artisans. One would sew table linens and the other would stencil their original designs on them. They created many beautiful items and ran their business for about a decade. Mom allowed us to be involved by doing simple things like cutting ribbon, and tying bows with our tiny fingers, and later on hand-stitching mitered corners. (And no, cousins, it was not slave labor! She paid us for the work we did.) It was fun to work beside her. I'm so glad that mom allowed us in her workspace (and also in her kitchen) because it shaped us into who we are today. By day I teach, and by night I still enjoy art and creativity.
So, last month when I was painting these flower pots, she said I was going back to our roots: stenciling. Thanks mom, for giving me roots.

Eco Big Shot Projects

2010-08-07T01:00:00.000-04:00

I have shown you some fun Big Shot projects lately, and here are a few more. They're so much fun to do, and easy to make [even my 4 1/2 year-old niece made some]!

This time I used magnetic sheets from Stampin' Up! You get four self-adhesive 6 x 13 sheets for less than $10. Click here to view.

The first few are made with recycled fiber felt and dressed up with some new, fabulous, easy to use embellishments from the new catalog: self-adhesive rhinestones and half back pearls. They instantly add pizazz to your projects!

Click to view the embellishments online rhinestones halfback pearls.

There are so many fun accessories in the new catalog! Click here to download.
Contact me if you'd like to your own copy: bassemjudith@gmail.com

The artwork in the previous two pictures was created by two very special girls!

Continuing with the green-recycled theme, I cut a butterfly from shipping cardboard for the base of this butterfly with the Beautiful Butterflies Bigz Die, and then embossed a scrap of retired DSP with the Beautiful Wings Embosslits Die for the top.

If you'd like to order your own Big Shot, embossing, die cutting machine this is the perfect time! Get it for making back-to-school projects, appreciation gifts, party favors, home decor, scrap-booking...
Order one online between now and 31 August and I will send you ten handmade birthday cards!

Big Shot Fun With Butterflies!

2010-08-01T07:00:00.001-04:00

I always loved the Beautiful Butterflies Die, and then I decided to make some projects using felt & this die. I picked up a couple of sheets of felt at a local store, and then hoping to find more colors, I went to a fabric store. Wow! They had so many beautiful colors of felt which were part of their recycled fiber felt. So, not only is the product stunning, it's also eco-friendly.

I started by making a bunch of butterfly hair adornments for my nieces (if you haven't gotten yours yet, then I haven't seen you, and I will be giving one to you soon), and then tried some other projects with them as well, stay tuned... I had so much fun making these that I entered some into a fine craft exhibit at a local gallery. Soon I will be selling them on Etsy.

If you are interested in learning how to use these products, please contact me, and I will be delighted to work with you. If you would like to purchase these products, click on the links or visit my Stampin' Up! website.

Father's Day

2010-07-03T10:05:00.000-04:00

Here's a masculine card that I made for Father's Day. It's a card that members of my card club got to make and personalize. This card works great for guys who have short names: you could stamp their name instead of their title/ occupation.

I wanted to do a masculine background, but don't have a background stamp that's really manly, so I came up with a technique for this card. Contact me to book a party or join a card club or come for studio time and I'll show you how I did it.

Custom Wedding Card- Amethyst & Silver

2010-07-02T07:00:00.001-04:00

Here's another custom card. The invitation is hidden under the card for privacy, but you can see its essential elements.

The Almost Amethyst CS was a perfect match. Then I made silver paper by applying silver shimmer paint to some gray CS.

If you want me to design a special card or invitations for you, please contact me.