September Stamp of the Month

Paper Garden is the September Stamp of the Month and I've had so much fun making a set of classy cards with it. The card bases are from Kraft cardstock, the flowers are stamped with Cocoa and Desert Sand inks, the ink blots are stamped with Champagne ink, the sentiment and border are stamped with Poppy ink and the background stripes are cut from Eggplant and Pomegranate cardstock. These colors are from the Enchantment palette and featured in the Sangria paper pack.

I've also entered this card over at the Color Dare Challenge. Thanks for stopping by!

Hollyhock, Goldrush & Colonial White

Hello! I've been busy working on projects for my BIG Reveal Party this Saturday, but stopped long enough to make this card for the Color My Heart Color Dare Challenge (my first entry in this challenge).

This card utilizes the Hollyhock ink, Goldrush ink, Balloon Wishes stamp set (get it free when you purchase the Marker Roll Up during August), and Hello Life Cardmaking stamp set (a sneak peek at something fun coming in September). 

Hello Zoe!

It's time to welcome a new girl to the block! Hello Zoe! She is Close To My Heart's newest paper pack - a pre-release from the 2015-2016 Annual Inspirations book that comes out September 1st. Let me just say that Zoe is a perfect sampling of many wonderful things to come! Here are a couple of things I made at our last play date:

This card was SO SIMPLE! Not only does it use the playful Zoe paper, but also the newest Cricut cartridge Artistry, and Framed, the August Stamp of the Month.

This layout is for our sweet black lab who passed away last week after being a member of our family for 13 years. It also uses the Zoe paper and features the Artistry Cricut cartridge for the sweet little dog, lettering and paw background. The "sweet & happy" stickers are part of the Zoe compliments pack.

I can't wait for you to play with these papers at my Reveal party on August 29th, or you can see it sooner at the August 21st crop night.

August Stamp of the Month Blog Hop

Welcome to our Stamp of the Month Blog Hop! We will be featuring the August Stamp of the Month called What A Hoot.  This set includes 17 stamps.  If you have come here from Jilena's blog then you are on the right path! The blog hop is a great big circle, so you can start here and work your way all around.  This is simple to do - just click on the link at the end of the post on each blog to move to the next one. If you get lost along the way, you’ll find the complete list of participating consultants on Melinda’s Blog: http://ifyoublingit.blogspot.com/2014/07/the-close-to-my-heart-august-what-hoot.html

This month you will be inspired by nearly 70 Close To My Heart Consultants sharing their creations using this month's SOTM and other great CTMH products on their blogs! 

This card is ready to drop in the mail to your favorite person!  It is made on white cardstock stamped with Geometric Backgrounds (D1559) in Honey (Z2162), Canary (Z2643) and Bamboo (Z2103).  My owl was stamped and embossed with Black embossing powder, then colored with our brand new Touch Twin markers in Carmine (Z2448) and Marigold (Z2457).  The spots were added using the Lepen Journaling Pen (Z1979). He gets a good look at you with his studded eyes.  The sentiment is stamped on a conversation bubble (Z1793) and pennants were added for a final touch.

Now "Hop" on over to Casandra's blog to see her work! Be sure to visit all the Consultants at their blogs to get some great crafting ideas and other fun ideas! Remember, the August SOTM is only available until August 31st!  Contact your CTMH Consultant (or click here) to see how you can get this stamp set at a discount!

Have Fun with Circus Alphabet - July Stamp of the Month

There is so much that you can do with alphabet stamps and July's stamp of the month is no exception!  Take a look at these fun and summery ideas and then get the recipes and supply lists here.  The projects include a layout (which can be framed and used as wall or table top decor) a mini album, and two cards.

Here are all 68 of the stamps included in the Circus Alphabet set for only $5 (that's less than 7 cents per stamp) when you spend $50 at www.aprilnourse.ctmh.com:

As always, this stamp set is available for you to use at my free crop nights.  The next one will be July 18th. Just bring your projects (or buy supplies at the door) and a snack to share.  Oh, and RSVP at www.facebook.com/aprilctmh or by commenting here so I can have a space ready for you!

Thank you for joining us on My Cricut Craft Room's BLING Blog Hop!

Today I made a card to share with you using Close To My Heart papers, embellishments and stamps.  Here is a list of supplies:

Gold Polka Dot Washi Tape (LOVE IT!)

Teal Shimmer Trim

Triangle Studs

Cloud Nine paper & stamp kit (retired)

Cricut Artiste cartridge

Adhesive & Non-Stick Scissors

Card Base

Below, I've also included a few of my favorite charms made with the Close To My Heart Base & Bling product line. These are so simple to make.  Just choose a shape, put your favorite image inside, and glue the pieces together with Liquid Glass.  

Thanks for stopping by! Your next stop is Gina at http://californiascrappin-gcinderella21.blogspot.com/.  Thank you for hopping along today!

THE ENTIRE LINE UP

1. Start- http://mycricutcraftroom.blogspot.com

2. April - http://curlsandgrins.blogspot.com

3. Gina - http://californiascrappin-gcinderella21.blogspot.com/

4. Erica- http://EricasProjects.blogspot.com

5. Pam  - www.psiloveyouscrapbooking.com

6. Craft Lovers- http://CraftLoversComeHere.blogspot.com

Wedding Blog Hop

Thank you for joining us on My Cricut Craft Room's Blog Hop!  If you came from Connie Walsh at http://papercraftingfromanotherviewpoint.blogspot.com/2014/06/love-is-in-air.html then you're in the right place.  If you missed the beginning, head over here to see everything!

Today I made a card to share with you.

This card was made using retired Close To My Heart papers and embellishments.  The dress was cut using the Cricut Artiste cartridge.  The bodice of the dress was stamped 2nd generation to give a lacey effect, a belt was made using silver shimmer trim and the skirt was covered in lace flowers.  

Congratulations to the bride and groom!

Thank you so much for stopping by!  Your next stop is Alicia's blog at http://goldengoddessdesigns.blogspot.com/  

1. Start- http://mycricutcraftroom.blogspot.com 
2. Trish - http://Ifieverdoit.blogspot.com 
3. Connie - http://papercraftingfromanotherviewpoint.blogspot.com/2014/06/love-is-in-air.html  
4. April - http://curlsandgrins.blogspot.com 
5. Alicia- http://goldengoddessdesigns.blogspot.com/ 
6. Erica- http://EricasProjects.blogspot.com 
7. Pam- http://psiloveyouscrapbooking.com 
8. Craft Lovers- http://CraftLoversComeHere.com

Masculine Valentine's Card

One of my favorite new paper kits from Close to my Heart is Ariana.  I love the flowers and combination of colors.  I also know that my dear husband is not fond of receiving flowery cards, even if it's for Valentine's Day.  I used this lovely paper kit, Chocolate woodgrain Washi tape, and Wild Thing stamp set to create a masculine Valentine's card.

Here is some other artwork using the Ariana paper:

And the Wild Thing Stamp of the Month:

 

Don't forget about this month's constant campaign - Buy two cardstock packs and get a free embossing folder!

Spring/Summer Preview Party

It's that time of year again!  Close To My Heart will release the Spring/Summer Idea Book and that means we're having a P.A.R.T.A.Y!!!  Join me on Sunday, February 2nd from 3 to 5 p.m. for all kinds of crafty fun - free projects, giveaways and oodles of eye candy.  Everyone will leave with a free copy of the newest book full of inspiration and ideas.  Of course, there will also be yummy treats courtesy of Miss Annie and a huge clearance sale to make way for new products.  I guarantee that this Idea Book holds something for every crafter, so be sure to stop by and get yours.  If you're not local or can't make it on February 2nd, please message me at mamacurls {at} yahoo {dot} com and I will get right back to you!

5th Annual Christmas Card Workshop

It's time for the 5th annual Christmas Card Workshop!  The 2013 cards will feature the fabulous Sparkle & Shine papers and coordinating embellishments from Close To My Heart.  I provide everything you need to make your cards, but you are welcome to bring inks, blocks and any extras that you may want to use.  This is my most popular event of the year and sells out quickly, so reserve your space now.  You can click on the link below and pay via Paypal, or I can take checks or cash to hold your space.  There are a few options, so be sure to choose the workshop that you'd like to attend.  If you'd like to avoid the crowd and book a private party for you and your friends, I have a few dates left on my calendar.  Just call or text me at (816)226-8406.

This year you have five choices for the workshop:

• November 23rd @ Garden City Library (10 am - 2 pm)    We will complete 20 cards for $25 (five each of four designs).  You can work on your own or follow along with the group.
• November 22nd @ My Craft Room (any time between 10 am and 11 pm)  You will complete 20 cards for $25 (five each of four designs).  You can work on your own and I will be available to help you.
• November 19th @ Harrisonville Library (6:30 - 7:30 pm)  We will complete 3 cards for $5 (one each of three designs).  You can work on your own or follow along with the group.
• On Your Own Kit - You will get a complete kit to make 20 cards for $25 (five each of four designs), including photos and instructions to create your cards.
• Private Party - You invite your friends and I will bring kits to create either 3 or 20 cards.  Your party can be at your home or in my craft room.  Please call or text me at (816)226-8406 for this option.

Dates

Nov 23rd @ Garden City Library $25.00 USD Nov 22nd @ My Craft Room $25.00 USD Nov 19th @ Harrisonville Library $5.00 USD On Your Own Kit $25.00 USD

October Events

5th 10 am - 1 pm Operation Write Home: Christmas Edition - Our heroes overseas need Christmas cards to send to their loved ones at home! Please join us for an hour or two to make cards for them. Even if you don't want to make cards, you can stuff envelopes, stop by to sign our Christmas card to them or make a donation to cover postage. There will be door prizes and refreshments to get your creativity flowing! Please invite your friends!

7th 9 - 11:30 am Crop & Chat @ Harrisonville Library  - Bring your crafty projects to work.  I will bring my idea books and supplies to help you create lovely works of art.  If there's something specific you'd like, please let me know by commenting below.

7th 5:30 pm Card-Making @ Garden City Library - We will create 2  Halloween cards and 1 goody box for $5.  They're a perfect treat for anyone!

16th 5 pm Teen Craft @ Garden City Library - We will create a treat box full of Halloween candy.

18th 6:30 - 11 pm Free Crop Night & Huntington Card Workshop @ My Craft Room -  Bring your crafty projects to work and a snack to share.  All of my supplies and tools are available for you to use, including my Cricut.  The Huntington Card Workshop is $20 for 15 cards (does not include a stamp set).  Friends are always welcome!

21st 9 - 11:30 am Crop & Chat @ Harrisonville Library  - Bring your crafty projects to work.  I will bring my idea books and supplies to help you create lovely works of art.  If there's something specific you'd like, please let me know by commenting below.

21st 5:30 pm Necklace-Making @ Garden City Library - Make a teal, purple, pink, red or black necklace using fabric and embellishments for $15.

28th  9 - 11:30 am Crop & Chat @ Creighton Methodist Church  - Bring your crafty projects to work.  I will bring my idea books and supplies to help you create lovely works of art.  If there's something specific you'd like, please let me know by commenting below.

 
  

September Events

These are the scheduled events in September:

 9th - Fall Cards at Garden City Library ($5 for 3 cards) 5:30 pm
16th - Crop & Chat at Harrisonville Library (FREE) 9-11:30 am
20th - Ladies Crop Night (FREE) & Laughing Lola Workshop on the Go ($30) 6-11 pm
23rd - Crop & Chat at Creighton Methodist Church (FREE) 8:30-11:30 am
28th - Teen Takeover ($2) 7-9 pm

Each person who hosts a gathering or workshop in September with at least 4 attendees will receive a stamp set from me in addition to any earned hostess rewards!  My dates are limited, so call me today at (816) 226-8406 to lock in your date!

Friday with Friends - Lynda Jeffs

With the new Close To My Heart Idea Book coming out yesterday, I'm adding a new feature to the Curls & Grins blog - Friday with Friends.  Each Friday will feature a member or friend of the Curls & Grins Design Team.  We're kicking it off with Lynda Jeffs who happens to be celebrating a birthday today!  Please take a moment to stop by her blog (linked at the bottom) and tell her happy birthday!

Well, hello to all the Curls and Grins peeps, I am excited to bring you my very first project today! A little about me first - and then on to my fun projects! My name is Lynda Jeffs, born and raised in the Salt Lake City, Utah area 49 years ago today - but have lived in 4 different states in 5 years now! I am a mom of 3, step mom to 5 - and step grandma to 7 almost 8 awesome kids! I have stamped for 22 years now, and scrapbooked for about 14 years! I also love to alter - A LOT!!! So, now that you know a bit about me - lets get started on today's project!

One thing I like is two sided cardstock - THIS paper is absolutely everything I could ask for and more! With this first card above - I used two different patterned papers, for the background's - added the saying, matted twice - and the same color of balloons for the top of the card! Love how this one turned out! Supplies used: CTMH patterned paper, paper trimmer, rub ons (for the saying) - can use stamps instead..., die cut balloons (which can be from any die cut machine you have), and basic adhesive.

With this next card - again I used different CTMH patterned papers which makes it very easy to coordinate your cards, scrapbook layouts and other projects you might be doing! I love the two sided papers - being able to make a card look totally different just because of the papers you select - or the side you happen to use! This card was matted three times to create visual interest - with the second and third layers being used for the die cuts on the page. Should you run out of paper, especially a specific color or brand - and you are matting them, you can always use the paper underneath for die cut shapes!

Supplies used: CTMH patterned paper, die cut shapes, trimmer, adhesive, and saying stamp or rub ons.

 

The examples here are very easy for you to start out with, using different techniques as you are learning more! Plus I happened to have moved recently - most of my stuff is sitting in storage - so I apologize for the lack of stamping techniques shown here! I like to show people who scrapbook how easy it is to create cards - with what you have available to you! I challenge you to try to do the same - use only 5 supplies on your card or layouts - what would you use? I would love to see your creations this week - what packs of paper did you use - what stamps did you use - or what die cut cartridge did you use? Have fun - and make sure you show me what you have created!

Lynda Jeffs

Memories in Tyme

Card/Layout/Project Challenge

Show off your creativity!  Winner gets bragging rights AND Close To My Heart credit!

• One design in each category will be posted by the 1^st of each month at www.curlsandgrins.blogspot.com.
• Each challenge will be based on a theme, design or component.  Be sure to create accordingly!
• Only Close To My Heart products may be used unless specified otherwise for that challenge.
• Unless specified in the challenge, additional embellishments, techniques and flair are encouraged.
• Submissions are due by the 15^th of each month and will be posted at www.facebook.com/aprilctmh. You may bring your submissions to me and I will photograph and post them on Facebook or you may photograph and post them.
• Each person may submit two projects in each category.
• Winner will receive a $5 gift certificate redeemable on a Close To My Heart order with April Nourse.
• Winners cannot win two consecutive months in the same category, nor can one person win in more than one category in the same month.
• One winner from each category will be chosen by the 20th of each month and posted at www.curlsandgrins.blogspot.com and www.facebook.com/aprilctmh.  All decisions are final.

February Card Challenge

The February Card Challenge features a design found in the Make It From Your Heart book from Close To My Heart. Your card needs to use the sketch to the right:

Below are three different cards I created using this sketch and the Later Sk8r papers. On Monday, February 11th, we will be creating these three cards at Garden City Library for $5. If you'd like to participate, please RSVP here. You can check out all of the challenge rules here.

Happy crafting!

Are You Ready for Fall?

I love fall.  Pumpkin dessert, Thanksgiving, and colorful leaves are just a few of my favorite things.  This card is perfect to get you in the mood too...

It is created using the Fall Favorites stamp set from Close To My Heart (only $5 during September with qualifying purchase), Moonlight papers, Smokey Plum ink and markers, Goldrush ink, and colored pencils.

Below is additional artwork using the Fall Favorites stamp set.

September Events

Operation Write Home Card-Making Event

Monday, September 10th 4:30 to 6:30 pm at Garden City Library

We will be making cards to send to our service members overseas.  They use these cards to send home to their families.  There is no cost for this event, however donations are welcome to offset the cost of supplies.

 

Scrapbooking Workshop

Thursday, September 13th 4:30 at Garden City Library

Create a 2 page layout for $5

 

Free Crop and Avonlea Workshop

Friday, September 21st 6-11 pm or Saturday, September 29th 2-7 pm in my craft room

Bring your own project or complete the Avonlea workshop with us.  

Kit orders are due by September 7th.

 

The full kit is $35

to create 2 layouts and 6 cards (includes stamp set for you to keep).

 

The basic kit is $25

to create 2 layouts and 6 cards (includes use of my stamps)

The “cards only” kit is $15

to create 12 cards (4 each of 3 designs)

 

To RSVP for any of these events, go to the events page at www.facebook.com/aprilctmh.

 

 

Red, White & Blue Blog Hop

Welcome to the last stop of the Red, White & Blue Blog Hop!  I'm so glad you are here!  If you came from Jackie at  http://jackiesscrappinpad.blogspot.com/ then you are in the right place!  If you just got here, please go back to Nicolette at http://beyondscrapin.blogspot.com so you can see everyone's wonderful projects!

Today I created a 6x6 birthday card for my Grandpa.  He loves Superman, so I created this card using the Superhero papers from Close To My Heart.

Here is a close up of those fun Comic Badge Buttons.

Thanks for stopping by!  If you like what you see, please visit my Facebook page at www.facebook.com/aprilctmh or follow this blog over on the right column!  Make sure to come back tomorrow to see more projects!

Complete Line Up

Nicolette - http://beyondscrapin.blogspot.com
Cheryl - http://cardsbycg.blogspot.com/
Leslie-Rahye ~ http://leslierahye.blogspot.com
Jamie - http://jmecreations.blogspot.com
Lisa - http://handmadewithlove-lisa.blogspot.com/
Robin - http://scrapandchat.blogspot.com/
Jackie - http://jackiesscrappinpad.blogspot.com/
April - http://curlsandgrins.blogspot.com

Nicolette's Birthday Bash Blog Hop

I'm so excited to share the final project of this hop!  Thank you for joining us for Nicolette's Birthday Bash Blog Hop!  If you are here from Jenny at http://cccjalessi.blogspot.com/ then you are in the right place!  If you are just joining us, please head over to Nicolette at http://beyondscrapin.blogspot.com to get started!  We wouldn't want you to miss a thing!

Last year I was able to attend a Close To My Heart convention at the happiest place on earth.  This card is made using some of the stamps I received while there...

Have a wonderful day and make sure to come back tomorrow!

Full Line-Up:

Nicolette - http://beyondscrapin.blogspot.com
Cheryl - http://cardsbycg.blogspot.com/
Leslie-Rahye - http://leslierahye.blogspot.com
Jamie - http://jmecreations.blogspot.com
Tonya - http://ittybittyladybugs.blogspot.com
Miriam - http://miriamscreations.blogspot.com/
Jenny- http://cccjalessi.blogspot.com/
April - http://curlsandgrins.blogspot.com

100 Card Challenge Day 15

It's not often that I am so sick that it takes me completely out of the game, but that happened this week.  From Sunday night until last night, I slept with the exception of the few hours I drug myself to work.   My sweet kids made dinner and did my chores but they didn't get around to sending any cards for me.  It's time to catch up, so here we go...

Since I'm playing catch up, I'm also cheating a bit.  This is actually one of a set of cards I'm making for my grandpa to send our for birthdays using the Sonoma papers and Art Philosophy cartridge from Close To My Heart.  Whenever I make cards for him, I print a message and scripture on the inside so he only has to sign his name. He also requests that his cards be suitable for a man or woman and it is flat so he isn't charged extra postage.

One last thing... I want to remind you that there are only a few days left to get the May Stamp of the Month for only $5, so get yours soon!