Nicole Stalker

March Stamp-A-Stack

Nikki Stalker — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 10:53:02 +0000

Well tonight was supposed to be my March Stamp-A-Stack and I was all ready and waiting only to find out I had late cancellations. I had started to pack up but then thought “Why waste the kits. My girls can do a couple of cards each.”

They were so excited when I told them what we’d be doing. I decided to do one design with them tonight and one tomorrow night though as it would take too long and I wanted them to still go to bed at a reasonable time.

I actually do 2 Stamp-A-Stacks each month. One held in my home and the other at another ladies house. I’d be more than happy to do more if anyone is interested at either my house or yours if you have a group of 5 or more.

This month I made one set of cards the same for each group but the other set is different. I did this because one group wanted some boy cards where as the group at my house is a mother & daughter and I didn’t think they would want boy cards so I did a pretty card.

The design I’m doing at both is an Easter card seeing how that’s coming up at the end of the month. I went with the Chocolate Bunny stamp from the Summer Mini catalogue which ends on 31st March.

I’ve used a colour combination from the Colour Coach for this card and the layout is from page 16 of the current Idea Book & Catalogue.

Supplies:
Stamp sets: Chocolate Bunny, Occasional Greetings
Card: Almost Amethyst, Rose Red, So Saffron, Confetti White
Ink: Chocolate Chip
Accessories: Scallop Oval & Large Oval punches, Corner Rounder Punch, So Saffron 5/8” Grosgrain ribbon (previous promotional bundle), Stampin’ Dimensionals.

The second card which was planned for tonight was a card using the Priceless stamp set which I love but haven’t used in ages.

I love this colour combination of Regal Rose, Pretty In Pink & Old Olive. This is a variation on a card I made when this set first came out but with less cutting out and a simpler layout.

Supplies:
Stamp set: Priceless
Card: Regal Rose, Pretty In Pink, Old Olive, Whisper White
Ink: Old Olive, Regal Rose, Pretty in Pink
Accessories: Paper Piercing template & tool, Stampin’ Dimensionals.

For the boys card I went with a card I made a while back using the Wild About You stamp set but revamped the colours.

On the Pacific Point cardstock I’ve stamped a ‘Happy Birthday’ sentiment from the ‘On Your Birthday’ stamp set but you could also use the ‘Wild About You’ word stamp from the ‘Wild About You’ stamp set.

Supplies:
Stamp sets: Wild About You, On Your Birthday, Weathered
Card: Garden Green, Pumpkin Pie, Pacific Point, Whisper White
Ink: Garden Green, Pumpkin Pie, Pacific Point
Accessories: Paper Piercing template & tool, White Gel Pen, 1 3/8” & 1 1/4” Circle Punches, Pumpkin Pie 1/4” grosgrain ribbon, Mini Glue dots, Stampin’ Dimensionals.

Till next time…..

Happy Stamping

My Little Easter Basket

Nikki Stalker — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 08:42:39 +0000

Jodene Tripp has been inspiring us all over on Stampin’ Up in Oz with her wonderful creations using Lauren Meader’s Timeless Templates. I already had a few of Lauren’s templates but upon visiting her site I purchased a few more. In amongst those I purchased was one call ‘Pack A Picnic’ which I knew straight away I wanted to use for an Easter Basket. The template comes with 2 sizes and I’ve opted to use the small one this time but I’m sure I’ll be making some of the larger size too. The template does also come with a lid but I didn’t think my project needed that.

So this is ‘My Little Easter Basket’.

I decided I wanted to use the Tea Party DSP for this one as even though Easter is in Autumn here in Australia I’m sure we still think of the Easter Bunny and flowers rather than leaves falling off the trees. I chose the Certainly Celery, So Saffron & Pretty In Pink printed paper from the pack and teamed it with a layer of Pretty In Pink Cardstock. The handles are So Saffron with a strip of Pretty In Pink and they have been attached to the basket using clear rhinestone brads. I actually wanted to use the green in the Ice Rhinestone pack but can you believe I only had 2 left (I needed 4) and I didn’t have a spare pack in my drawer. This never happens to me. Well it didn’t until now so I’d better make sure to add a pack to my next order. The Easter image is from Eggcoutrements stamp set available in the Summer Mini which I have stamped in Pretty in Pink onto Whisper White cardstock and then punched out with the Designer Label punch.

While I was doing my groceries last week I came across packs of coloured shredded paper in the Easter section and thought they’d be ideal for some Easter creations. This was before Jodene was inspiring us and before I’d even looked at creating this basket. Guess I just new I’d be putting it to use real soon plus I’m sure if I went back now it would all be gone especially seeing it was only $1.99 a bag. I actually purchased 4 packs, 1 each of pink, yellow, blue & purple. There is heaps in each bag too.

Rather than fill the whole basket up with eggs I’ve added some of the lovely pink shredded paper and then a few eggs on top. The eggs I’ve used are a mixed pack of Ballantyne and include solid eggs, strawberry filled, peppermint filled and caramel. When I opened the bag can you imagine the yummy smell that came out. I’ve been good though. I haven’t eaten even one by the time I typed this post. I won’t guarantee it will stay that way though…..hahaha

Till next time…..

Happy Stamping

Sale-A-Bration Blog Hop

Nikki Stalker — Sun, 21 Feb 2010 19:00:00 +0000

Welcome to the 2^nd Stampers Anonymous SU blog tour! This time round we will be showcasing the Sale-A-Bration stamp sets. The Sale-A-Bration stamp sets are FREE sets you can earn for every $100 purchased till 31^st March. These stamp sets are not available for purchase so if there is one, two, three or maybe all 4 you would like then you need to contact your demonstrator (or me if you don’t already have a demonstrator) and place an order before you miss out.

You may have just come from Fiona’s blog, but if you are starting here, don’t worry … you can make the complete circuit just by following the links at the end of each post. There are 9 stops along the way and we hope you will visit each one to see the wonderful creations we have to show you!

At the end of each post there will be a link to take you to the next stop on the tour. Feel free to “share the love” and leave a comment! So sit back, relax and enjoy!

Now for my projects.

I was really happy with the selection of Sale-A-Bration stamp sets this year and I’m going to show you a couple of projects using 2 of the sets.

First up is Happy Moments. This set contains 4 images + 3 sentiment stamps and can be utilised for many occasions.

This set of cards is one of the sets you can make in my February Stamp-A-Stack class. This class is scheduled for Tuesday 23rd February at 7pm and I still have a few spots available if you are interested. Classes are held in my home at Lalor Park NSW. If you’d like to come along you can email me or call on 0418 218 467 to reserve your seat. Class cost is $15 (if you bring your own snail) or $20 if you use mine and you will make 8 cards with envelopes.

Supplies:
Stamp set: Happy Moments (Sale-A-Bration set)
Card: Summer Sun, Green Galore, Pixie Pink, Tempting Turquoise, Only Orange, Watercolour Paper, Kaleidoscope DSP
Inks: Stazon Jet Black, Summer Sun, Green Galore, Pixie Pink, Tempting Turquoise, Only Orange, Close to Cocoa, Basic Black Stampin’ Write Marker
Accessories: Blender Pens, Word Window Punch, Scallop Edge punch, Stampin’ Dimensionals.

Here’s another quick set made using Happy Moments. This set of cards was inspired by Angie from Chic’ n Scratch. I just loved the simplicity of her cards.

Supplies:
Stamp set: Happy Moments
Card: Whisper White, Regal Rose and Brocade Blue DSP (Level 1 Hostess set)
Ink: Stazon Jet Black, Regal Rose, Apricot Appeal, Almost Amethyst, Bashful Blue, Certainly Celery, Chocolate Chip, More Mustard, Old Olive,Pumpkin Pie
Accessories: Small Oval & Large Oval Punches, Scallop Edge Punch, Horizontal Slot Punch, Blender Pens, Regal Rose & Brocade Blue 5/8” Grosgrain ribbon, Stampin’ Dimensionals.

The last item I’m going to share with you today is a card made using the Good Neighbour Sale-A-Bration stamp set.

This stamp set is a set of 10 images. You have 3 house bases, 3 different roofs, 2 trees, 1 leaf and a cloud image so you can mix and match to your hearts content.

When making this card I have used mainly Earth Element colours. I’ve also created some grass and a road by masking off areas using Post-It Notes and sponging.

Supplies:
Stamp set: Good Neighbour
Card: Really Rust, Whisper White, Chocolate Chip DSP
Ink: Really Rust, Chocolate Chip, Close to Cocoa, Creamy Caramel, Old Olive, Going Gray, Basic Gray
Accessories: Old Olive 1/4” grosgrain ribbon, Stamp-a-ma-jig, Stampin’ Dimensionals.

Well, that’s all from me. Now you’re off to enjoy the wonderful creations of Lorna. Thanks for stopping by!

If you happen to get stuck along the way here’s a direct link to all the participants

Marelle Taylor http://www.marelletaylor.com/2010/02/sale-bration-blog-hop.html

Juliette Chapman http://juleskraftikrafts.blogspot.com/2010/02/sale-bration-blog-hop.html

Fiona Harvey http://fionastamps.blogspot.com/2010/02/sale-bration-blog-hop-vintage-style.html

Nikki Stalker http://nicolestalker.com.au/blog/2010/02/22/sale-a-bration-blog-hop/

Lorna Casha http://lornacasha.blogspot.com/2010/02/sale-bration-blog-hop.html

Robyn Irving http://www.stampingitout.com/?p=366

Sally Williams http://www.sallycancraft.com/2010/02/blog-hop.html

Chary Belfield http://charybelfield.wordpress.com/2010/02/22/sale-a-bration-blog-hop/

Till next time….

Happy Stamping

A Family Wedding

Nikki Stalker — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 00:01:37 +0000

My husband’s nephew had his wedding last Saturday so of course I needed to make a card. This was left very last minute as the whole thing was a bit of a schumuzzle for us.

We have 4 children ranging in age from 8 1/2 years to 14 1/2 years and when my SIL let us know they were getting married I asked about children and was told there was an age restriction and it was High School age. I only have 1 in High School but my second eldest (who will be in High School next year) was invited too. My husband (who is also the groom’s godfather and only sibling on his mothers side) and I decided we wouldn’t be attending with only 1/2 our family. However we did decide to go to the church. At first anyway. Then with all the rubbish that kept going on because we wouldn’t leave 2 of our girls behind we decided we wouldn’t go at all. That was until Tuesday last week and my husband informed me he was going. Men!!! When I said I’d have to try and find something for us girls to wear his comment was he wasn’t dressing up but he’d give me some money to buy some clothes. Money was the least of my concerns but of course he didn’t get that. A nice pair of dress pants, shirt and tie and he’s right, however he did wear a suit and tie. He totally didn’t understand how hard it would be to find Summer clothes at this time of year for us girls. My 2nd eldest was covered as she had a dress suitable from the Year 6 farewell last year, I also found suitable clothing for the younger 2 in their wardrobes but my eldest and I still needed something.

So on Wednesday I went shopping. I managed to find something for my eldest rather quickly but it took a few hours and many clothes changes to find something suitable, comfortable and that I liked and would wear again for me. Then I needed shoes for us both. Luckily we are the same size foot and I got a bargain on the shoes as they were on special so I got the 2 pairs for the price of what one would have originally cost. I just hoped I’d managed wearing heals for a few hours as I’m normally in flats all the time or a smallish heal like I purchased from my daughter. I did well though and the shoes were quite comfy actually. Of course then I needed to accessories my daughter. Hubby phoned while I was selecting some jewellery and a little handbag for my daughter and couldn’t work out why she needed those. Men just don’t get it, do they? It wasn’t expensive stuff and my daughter was thrilled when I gave it all to her that afternoon. Of course she tried it all on straight away so we knew it fit and looked nice and then she tucked it away and her father had to wait till Saturday to see it all.

We took a few pictures before we left. Unfortunately the glare from the sun was hitting us right in the face.

Here’s a photo of our girls with hubby and then one with our girls and me. Why is it you never have everyone smiling.

So back to the card.

As I said this was a last minute thing so I went browsing Splitcoaststampers for some ideas/inspiration using the ‘Together Forever’ stamp set. I came across this lovely card by Chat (aka nitestamper) and decided to pretty much CASE it. I’ve made a few minor changes but not too many.

So this is my end result.

I loved the colour combination and the layout for this card. I had no idea what the colours of the wedding were (and no they weren’t Baja Breeze) but I thought this was still soft and elegant colour combination to use. Thanks Chat for the inspiration.

We are glad we went to the church service. It was very short only lasting 1/2 hour and was basically just an exchange of nuptials but that’s what they wanted and it pleased the family. The bride looked lovely of course and the rain held off till after the service. The photographer managed to get one group shot before the rain fell too much and then the bridal party and immediate family went back into the lovely old sandstone church and hopefully had some more photos in there. The guests all went on to the reception and for us, as we were all already dressed up we went out for dinner at our local revolving restaurant.

Till next time…..

Happy Stamping

Sketch Challenge

Nikki Stalker — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 02:10:50 +0000

This year in Stampin’ Up in Oz yahoo group we are having weekly challenges. Each month we will have 1 Sketch Challenge, 1 Colour Challenge, 1 Product Challenge and 1 Technique Challenge. These challenges are not compulsory and there is no time limit to them. They are given in hope to encourage group participation but also to help take us out of our comfort zone and try new things.

The first challenge for the year was posted on 31st January and was a Sketch challenge. I made this card I’m going to show over a week ago but haven’t made time to share it with you all till now.

This is the Sketch we were given.

I decided to use the Fifth Avenue Floral stamp set on my card and some DSP from the Urban Oasis pack.

I stamped the large Rose image twice onto watercolour paper using Stazon Jet Black ink and then watercoloured using Baja Breeze inkpad and an Aqua Painter. I then cut out one image in full and then the centre of the second image which I layered together before mounting onto the card. Now while I was playing with the image and sketch I wasn’t happy with the ‘Portrait’ orientation of the sketch so I turned the sketch on it’s side and used it in ‘Landscape’ orientation instead.

This is the end result.

I’ve added a couple of white 1/2 backed pearls and a sentiment from Basic Phrases which was stamped onto watercolour paper and punched out with the word window punch.

The second challenge was a colour challenge and the third is a product challenge. I’m hoping to get some time to work on these later in the week and will then share with you all.

Till next time…..

Happy Stamping

A Thank You gift for me.

Nikki Stalker — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 08:02:54 +0000

I received a lovely surprise package in the mail yesterday and it was from my partner for the last ESAD Secret Sister round, Sonia Garbutt.

Sonia had made me a ‘Thank You’ gift for the items she received from me. Now this was not necessary and is not a requirement to the swap so it was very much unexpected but certainly appreciated.

This is what Sonia made for me.

Sonia has used the new Kaleidoscope DSP from the Summer Mini Catalogue along with coordinating Bold Brights cardstock & inks and one of my all time favourite stamp sets, Great Friend, which unfortunately is not available at present but I do so hope it makes the next IB&C released 1st September 2010. If it doesn’t I still don’t think I could part with it straight away. Of course you can also see some of the wonderful Ice Rhinestone Circle brads used on this wonderful project.

I’m sure you’ve heard me say before that I’m really not a Bold Brights kind of girl (unless of course you are a new visitor to my blog) but this Kaleidoscope DSP has changed that a little and I’ve probably used more Bold Bright colours since the release of the Summer Mini than I have in the 3 1/2 years prior with Stampin’ Up!. Let’s just hope that when this mini finishes my using Bold Brights more doesn’t go with it….hahaha.

So would you like to see what’s inside????

Check it out.

Sonia has created some note paper hand stamped with some images from the Great Friend stamp set.

Wasn’t I a lucky girl?

I’m sure I’ll be CASING this great project soon.

Till next time….

Happy Stamping

January Secret Sister gift

Nikki Stalker — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 04:42:37 +0000

I only just realised that I haven’t shared my Stampin’ Up in Oz Secret Sister gift I received for January with you all yet. I’ve been side tracked preparing for my Sale-A-Bration Party on Saturday. If you’re interested in coming along you can find more details here, but you must let me know by tomorrow night otherwise I can’t guarantee I’ll have enough gifts ready. I do have some other gifts left over from past parties but I’d like to make you all something new.

For January the requirements were that we had to make 3 handmade gifts (1 could be a card) and to try and use the recipients favourite colour/s. I listed my favourite colour as Kiwi Kiss and mentioned that I liked all the In Colours. This is what I received.

The two smaller items where packed inside the large tin. I hadn’t seen these tins before but I’m told they will hold A4 cardstock. Doesn’t it all look wonderful.

The item on the left is a 2 year planner. I haven’t seen these around before either but it will come in very handy and I won’t need to carry my diary around in my handbag anymore as I can use this and I can see when I’m available and what I have on at a glance. The item on the right is a chocolate slider and still has the Kit Kat inside. I did think it would definitely have been eaten by now but I’m trying to be good and cut out a lot of the rubbish I eat….(remember my goals post).

Thank you again Secret Sister if you are reading this. It was a wonderful gift to receive.

Till next time…..

Happy Stamping

M&M Card

Nikki Stalker — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 06:42:29 +0000

Yes that is Chocolate M & M’s I’m talking about. My youngest daughter needed a birthday card for a party she was attending last Saturday so I decided it was about time I used my Sweet Somethings stamp set and the Sweet Treat Cups.

Being that this is the first time I’d used both of these it did take me a little bit of time. I need to use them more so I can get the hang of them I think…..

Seeing how I was using M & M’s and they are reasonably bright in colour…..yes wait for it….. I used Bold Brights colours for the card.

I didn’t want to put in all this effort (and I’m telling you my first one was) and have the card destroyed getting the M & M’s out so I made a slider so they could be removed easily.

Here’s the finished card complete with M & M’s.

I’ve used Yoyo Yellow as my base (probably the 2nd time I’ve used this colour in 3 1/2 years…hahaha), then I have a layer of Only Orange followed by my top layer of Whisper White. The Gumball machine image has been stamped on a seperate piece of Whisper White using Real Red ink and then cut out and layered using Stampin’ Dimensionals to add that extra 3D effect. The sentiment has been stamped using Tempting Turquoise.

I’m sure you will all realise that the ribbon at the top is to pull the slider up to remove the M & M’s. I’ve used the lovely Real Red Polka Dot ribbon on this.

While creating the slider I realised I didn’t want the card to look plain when the M & M’s where gone so I punched out a piece of Whisper White cardstock using the 1 3/4” circle punch and stamped it using what I’m calling the M & M stamp from the Sweet Somethings stamp set and some bold bright inks.

Of course it doesn’t look as good as filled with actual edible M & M’s but better than a blank card.

And to finish off the inside…..

(Sorry about the white patches I forgot to snap a photo before my daughter wrote in it so I’ve edited the names out)

So did I do okay???? I’m sure with more practice I’ll get quicker at them. Any tips would be appreciated…

Till next time…..

Happy Stamping

Sale-A-Bration Party Invite

Nikki Stalker — Sat, 23 Jan 2010 22:00:00 +0000

To celebrate Sale-A-Bration I’m having a Party and I’d love for you to come along.

When: Saturday 6th February

Where: 134 Frederick Street, Lalor Park NSW

Time: 2pm – 4pm or 7pm –9pm
(please specify time when you RSVP)

RSVP: By Monday 1st February

Email: nicole@nicolestalker.com.au

Phone: (02) 9620 9092 or 0418 218 467

I will have a Make & Take (or 2) for you to do using the Sale-A-Bration sets along with other samples on display. Nibbles & drinks, a ‘Thank You’ Gift and a special offer available to those attending.

I hope to see you there.

It’s Sale-A-Bration Time!

Nikki Stalker — Sat, 23 Jan 2010 10:33:11 +0000

That’s right it’s that wonderful time of year again when Stampin’ Up!® offer FREE stamp sets.

Starting from Monday 25th January through 31st March, 2010 you have 3 ways to earn those FREE stamps.

1. Spend $100AUD and earn one FREE Sale-A-Bration set of your choice.

2. Host a workshop of at least $600AUD and earn one FREE Sale-A-Bration set in addition to the generous hostess benefits.

3. Join Stampin’ Up!® during Sale-A-Bration and choose a FREE stamp set (excluding Hostess sets) from the Idea Book & Catalogue up to the value of $79.95AUD

If you’ve ever considered joining up now is the ideal time. For $324 you will receive up to $578.10 in products and that’s not including the business materials you will also receive. That’s a saving of up to $254.10 just in stamps, inkpads & other accessories.

I’d love for you to join my team and so I’m also offering another incentive to the first 3 people to join my team during Sale-A-Bration and that is a FREE Level 1 Hostess set of your choice.

If you’d like further information on becoming a demonstrator in my team, book a workshop, like a Sale-A-Bration Brochure mailed out to you or would just like to place an order you can email me or phone on (02) 9620 9092 or 0418 218 467.

Happy Stamping

Haiti Disaster Relief

Nikki Stalker — Sat, 23 Jan 2010 08:58:16 +0000

Help make a difference in the lives of those who continue to suffer from the effects of the devastating earthquake that struck Haiti on 12th January. From now until 28th February, 2010, Stampin’ Up!® will set aside $2 from the sale of every I {Heart} Heart stamp set and donate it to the Red Cross’ Haiti Relief and Development Fund. The Red Cross is already well-established in Haiti, and this money will be used to provide immediate relief and long-term support through supplies, technical assistance and other support to help those in need.

In the past with these appeals that Stampin’ Up! have set up in times of need I have offered my demonstrator discount off the stamp set also and this time is no different. So if you wish to purchase this set it will only cost you $41.09 (Postage & Handling included) until the 28th February. Sale-A-Bration is starting on Monday 25th January (more in my next post about this) so why not include this stamp set in with a $100 order to qualify you for a FREE stamp set from the Sale-A-Bration brochure.

To place an order with me you can phone on (02) 9620 9092 or 0418 218 467 or email nicole@nicolestalker.com.au Payment can be made by Credit Card or direct deposit.

My Craft Space

Nikki Stalker — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 02:59:49 +0000

I haven’t really done any crafting this past week I’m sorry to say. To be honest I’ve been enjoying just trying to relax (not easy with 4 children on school holidays that constantly want to fight and bicker with each other) and reading. However over on Stampin’ Up in Oz we’ve been discussing and sharing our craft spaces. Before I’d share mine I needed to clean it up a little and get my ironing done and out of the way. I managed to get the ironing done yesterday and then while in the process of tidying up the rest of my area I decide to shuffle a few things around.

My Craft space is actually our Formal Lounge room but seeing how we have a main lounge, a rumpus and then an upstairs lounge room we really didn’t need another. Lucky for me…..

This is the view coming up my hallway towards the front door which is just off to the right of the photo.

I have our old dining table which is great to use for classes but also room to spread out when creating by myself. I also have a fold out utility table which is used mainly for my sewing (not that I do much of that anymore).

And this is taken standing at the front door. For those of you that love IKEA like I do you might recognise the Expedit Unit here which houses my fabric stash from back when I used to sew. I think that was prior to my stamping days…. I’ve actually packed up a 40 litre container which I’m donating to my eldest daughters High School next week. I need to clear out some holes so I could display some of my stamping/papercraft creations. I’ve also packed another 40 litre container of batting, wadding and a few extra pieces of fabric so I could have the whole top row for projects. I only had 3 yesterday.

In the back corner are my sewing machine cabinets and a filing cabinet. This filing cabinet has 1 drawer full of patterns and the other is my ‘other’ brand cardstock which my children use until it’s gone then they can have SU card too. The sewing cabinet has my combined Sewing/Embroidery machine & my Overlocker in it. There are 2 Ott-Lites on top which is where I usually take my photographs of my creations.

Now moving back around the room……

This is taken from the far corner of the previous photo looking back towards the front door (to the right). These are 2 of my 3 Billy Bookcases from IKEA which house my ‘other’ stamping supplies, retired SU sets that I just can’t part with or have kept for my girls to play with. Not too much on here gets used that much anymore. I really should look at off loading it or making an effort to use it more.

Moving to the left of the window in the picture above is the last of my Billy Bookcases. This used to house my SU stamps but I changed it around yesterday and now it only has my Christmas Stamps and Spring Mini sets (until we find out if they make the next IB&C). There is also my SU DSP, Impressions magazines, tutorials from Splitcoast and other places, Cuttlebug and some other bits and pieces.

Moving to the left again is my IKEA Alex drawer unit which houses all my punches, along with other tools, accessories and supplies. The filing cabinet holds the bulk of my A4 cardstock in the bottom 3 drawers and the top holds my business supplies.

The next photo is a full shot of my desk.

This is my workspace after my reorganising yesterday. I now have my the majority of my current stamps on the first shelf. The 2nd shelf has my wheels, card samples, surplus cardstock and the top shelf has some magazines, and other bits and pieces.

The 2 Alex drawer units on either side of my desk hold various things from extra supplies, adhesives, Circle Scissor Plus, embossing powders, glitters, items to make projects (Post-it Notes, chocolates, among other things). Under my desk (apart from my garbage bin) is my in use DSP & 12 x 12 cardstock holders.

On my desk is 2 x 5 drawer file units which I have 6 of the drawers used for my scrap cardstock and is stored in colour families. Don’t ask me what’s in the other 4 as they really need a clean out. Next to that I have 3 magazine holders which contains 2 colour families each of A4 cardstock. This just saves me having to go to the filing cabinet all the time. Then are my Stampin’ Write Markers along with my Copic Markers, my Stampin’ Stack & Store caddy and my Inkpad Caddy. I have my ribbon holders above this too and also the Ribbon Original packs which are handing from the wonderful Command Clips.

Moving to the left again is my computer table and then my embroidery machine. Most of the items on the shelves above pertain to my embroidery.

That basically brings you back to where we started.

I hope you’ve enjoyed checking out my craft space.

I’m just going to finish this book I’m reading and then I’ll get back to creating. I hope to have something to share with you in the next few days. I’ll also be posting about my Sale-A-bration Launch party later today or tomorrow as well.

Till next time…….

Happy Stamping

A Beautiful Thing

Nikki Stalker — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 23:15:00 +0000

The cards I’m going to share with you today are from another set which hasn’t seen ink for a while and that is…..’A Beautiful Thing’.

I really like the coordinating wheel with this set too and seeing how it also hasn’t seen ink in a while I’ve used it on this first card also.

My first card was inspired by this card made by Kari.

Here’s my creation:

Supplies:

Stamp sets: A Beautiful Thing, It’s Beautiful Jumbo Wheel

Card: Very Vanilla, Riding Hood Red, Close to Cocoa, Candy Lane DSP

Ink: Pink Pirouette, Riding Hood Red, Close to Cocoa

Accessories: Scallop Edge Punch, Stamp-a-ma-jig, Clear Rhinestone Brad, Stampin’ Dimensionals.

When I finished this card I realised that my last few cards all used a ‘Pink’ as the main colour theme. I’d like to make an effort to use colours I don’t often use or at least incorporate them into my creations a little more. I’m sure you all have those favourite colours you are always replenishing and the others that you hardly ever use.

So with this in mind I set about deciding what colour theme I was going to use for my second card. I figure if I can make 2 cards with each set I’ve neglected for a while I should do okay with my goal of posting more regularly and also about posting more than I did last year. Must remember though to use those new sets from the Summer Mini and also start creating with my Sale-A-Bration sets too. More about Sale-A-Bration later though…..

I started flicking through my Designer Paper Book and came across a piece of Tea Party DSP which contained Certainly Celery, Almost Amethyst, So Saffron, Basic Grey and Pretty In Pink. Now okay I admit there is some pink there again but I swear it won’t be the focus. Next I decided upon a layout. I went with a Mojo Monday Sketch from July being Week 97.

And this is what I came up with…..

This isn’t my usual style of card and I’m still unsure if I like it but yeah, I made my second card and I used some other product instead of hording it. Another goal started……hahaha.

Supplies:

Stamp sets: A Beautiful Thing

Card: So Saffron, Pretty In Pink, Certainly Celery, Whisper White, Tea Party DSP

Ink: Almost Amethyst, Basic Gray, Versamark

Accessories: Photo Corner Punch, Circle Scissors Plus, Stamp-a-ma-jig, Sherbet Designer Buttons, Stampin’ Dimensionals, Mini Glue Dots, Paper Piercing tool & template, crochet cotton (non-su)

So what do you think? Do you have a preference?

I’ll try my best to make the next card using NO PINK at all. Not sure on what set I’ll grab out yet. Hope I can do it.

Till next time……

Happy Stamping

The year ahead…..

Nikki Stalker — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 00:52:12 +0000

I’ve never been one to make New Year’s Resolutions as like most I just don’t keep them. Instead I like to give myself a couple of goals to work towards. I try not to select things that are too far out of reach though or even the goals won’t be achieved…..hahaha.

So what are my goals for this year?

My Stampin’ Up business:

I’d love to end the year having at least 4-6 people a month attend each of my 3 classes (Stamp-A-Stack, Technique & Project) which would mean I’ll have some ‘new customers’.
I’d also like to be doing at least 1 Workshop a month.
I’d love to have 3 – 6 downline.
I’d love to achieve all parts of Stampin’ Start this time around. I have till 30th June for this.
I’m aiming for a walk across the stage for Convention 2011. Seeing my sales figures all went back to $0 upon rejoining in December 2009 I think aiming for Convention 2010 will be a bit far out of my reach.
Use what I buy. Don’t horde it.

My personal life:

This year in June is my 40th and I’d love to lose between 5 – 10 kg before then and be on the right track to lose a total of 13 – 18kg in total by the end of the year. I want 2010 to be the year I get myself fit and healthy. I will be aiming to do this by eating healthy and exercising more not by meal replacement. May join Weight Watchers and attend meetings not try and do it online.
I want to spend more time doing fun things with my girls and hubby.
Cut back dramatically on playing computer games. It’s such a time waster.
Be more organised. Don’t leave things till the last minute.

My blogging goals:

To post more regularly.
To post more than I did last year.
To leave more comments on the blogs I visit.

Stamping Group goals:

To participate more often.
Send more RAK/DAK cards out.
Send more Birthday cards.
Be more organised with Christmas Cards this year and have them in the post no later than December 1st like I did in 2008.

That’s what I have for now. I’m hoping listing them here for all to see will help me achieve them. I’m going to print this out and put it on the wall above my work table so it’s a constant reminder.

So do you have goals for 2010 you’d like to share. Maybe we can encourage each other……

Echoes of Kindness

Nikki Stalker — Sun, 10 Jan 2010 23:53:45 +0000

It’s been quite a while since I used the Level 2 Hostess set ‘Echoes of Kindness’ so I thought it was time to ink it up again.

Friday night was the start of my fortnightly stamp night with friends for the year so figured I’d play with it then. Unfortunately I did more talking and catching up than stamping. Two of the ladies sat making my Desktop Calendars from my video tutorial which was great.

I did get a little bit done though. I managed to colour 2 images and turn one into a card on the night….

This card was inspired by a lovely card made by Wendy Janson. I’ve gone with totally different colours and less layers too and this is the end result.

Supplies:

Stamp sets: Echoes of Kindness, Best Yet (both Hostess sets)

Card: Certainly Celery, Whisper White, Regal Rose, Watercolour Paper, Patterns Pack II DSP (Hostess)

Ink: Stazon Black, Certainly Celery, Pretty in Pink, Regal Rose

Accessories: Whisper White Taffeta Ribbon, Scallop Circle, 1 3/8” & 1 1/4” circle punches, Aqua Painter, Stampin’ Dimensionals.

Quite simple but I’m happy with it. I’m finally using some of the Patterns Pack II DSP too which is great.

I was planning on making the second image into a card on Saturday but boy was it hot and sticky early. I was putting washing on the line in my pj’s and could feel the perspiration dripping down my back and this was at about 9am. I decided then I’d have a swim in the pool first to cool off before making a start on my day. My youngest daughter decided she’d join me while hubby and our second youngest ducked out to purchase a fold up shade shelter for the decking. The pool was absolutely lovely and just what I needed. When hubby got back though about 1 hour later we were still in there and the rest of the family decided to join us. That’s a very rare thing around here. Hubby only gets in if it’s really, really hot….. so I guess it was. We ended up having a muck around game of volleyball and were all having a ball which of course meant we lost track of time and how long we’d been in there. Needless to say someone ended up sunburnt and that would be me. Not that it’s pleasant but I’m so glad the children didn’t get badly burnt. A couple of us sat down to watch a movie later in the day and both hubby and I feel asleep. I ended up with a rotten headache and was in bed by 9pm that night. So not like me. I even had a snooze for a few hours through the day on Sunday too and another early night. Drinking lots of water too and finally this morning I feel normal again. Well still sore but my head feels good.

After my daytime snooze on Sunday, followed by Chicken & Chips for lunch which my lovely hubby ducked out to get while I was snoozing, I managed to turn the second image into a card.

Supplies:

Stamp sets: Echoes of Kindness (Hostess set), Fresh Cuts

Card: Regal Rose, Whisper White, Certainly Celery, Watercolour Paper, Patterns Pack II DSP (Hostess)

Ink: Stazon Black, Certainly Celery, Pretty In Pink, Regal Rose

Accessories: Certainly Celery 5/8” Grosgrain ribbon, Certainly Celery brads (soft subtles pack), Small & Large Oval punches, Paper Piercing tool & template, Stampin’ Dimensionals.

I like both cards. One’s softer looking than the other but I’m not sure if I have a preference either way. Just glad I used a stamp set that was being neglected. Many more of those in my stash so I’d better get to using them.

Till next time…..

Happy Stamping