Hope You Can Cling To-Day 31

Today we have 3 challenges. 

The first challenge HYCCT1431A-Tilted Layers
We are challenged to create a card with one or more tilted layer. 

This was actually a quick card for me.  :)  Stamp:  Embossing Arts Co.-Baby and Bubbles, Die:  Sizzix-Bubbles


HYCCT1431B-The Fault In Our Stars

The creator of this challenge was inspired by the sweet an funny romance that transpired in the book The Fault In Our Stars. 
We are challenged to create a sweetly romantic card for someone to give to their significant other. 

 

I hand cut the scallops, punched the hearts out.  Then die cut the sentiment with Sizzix-Sunset Alphabet. 

 

HYCCT1431C-Another Year In The Books

 

For this challenge we are to be inspired by our favorite children's book.

 

 

I guess this isn't necessarily my favorite children's story book.  It was my son's when he was little...he is not so little any more.  He LOVED anything to do with fire trucks or fire men.  At school they had made paper "Sparky" hats.  We couldn't get him to take it off.  Eventually fell apart, so we had to make him one out of fabric.  Meanwhile,  I ordered him a Scholastic Book from School. I believe the book is called Fire Truck!  It is a storybook and song.  However, we only had the storybook. Here is a link.  To this day we still recite pieces of this book to him.  LOL! 

 

Supplies:  Stamps:  Cornish Heritage Farms-Text, Art Impressions-Hydrant

 

I guess that's all for Hope You Can Cling To for this year!  I can't believe I made it another year! 

Have a great night!

 



Hope You Can Cling To-Day 30

Wow!  I can't believe we are almost done with the Hope You Can Cling To Challenges. 
Today's Challenge is to make beautiful cards to make spirits soar.  We are to use things that soar like birds, airplanes, butterflies, balloons, etc...

 

I opted for a quick easy Cricut card.  I used the Paper Pups Cartridge. 

 



Crimson and Clover Train Case

This is the Crimson and Clover Train Case designed by Sara from Sew Sweetness. 

I have a huge fascination with retro styled bags.  This case could be used for many things: make-up, toiletries, jewelry, toys, craft items, etc...

 

 

Here is the inside of the case.  I love all the pockets around the side and the big zip pocket on the lid.

 

I only made few changes to the bag.  I wasn't able to find a 32" zipper in the color was I was looking for.  However, I did mange to find a 30" zipper.  So, I made the bag tab piece a few inches longer. 

I used home décor fabric for the exterior fabric and quilt fabric for the inside.  For the lining pieces, I used SF-101.  In place of the Soft and Stable I used automotive headliner---I think that's what it is.  I bought it at Joann's.  I did use Peltex #70 on the inside of the top and bottom.  I felt it needed a little more stability for when items are inside the case.  It could be because of the larger size of the bag. 

 

This pattern comes in three sizes.  This is the largest size. 

Go visit www.sewsweetness.com to purchase this great train case pattern. 

 

Hope You Can Cling To-Day 29

Today's Hope You Can Cling To Challenge is to make a background without using designer paper. 

I used a mask and ink to make this background. 

 

 

Can you tell I had an oops that I wasn't sure how to fix?  LOL!

 

Supplies Used:  Heidi Swapp-Large Floral Bouquet Mask.  Hero Arts-Wavy Wishes.

Hope You Can Cling To-Day 28

Today's Challenge is "Pretty Pink Balloons."  We are to use at least one pink balloon on our card. 

 

I sponged over a Studio Calico- Chevron Mask for the background.  I cut the balloons with my Cricut-Alphalicious Cartridge.  

Attached twine....quick and easy. 

I suffered a paper crafting injury while making this card.  My very sharp pointed scissors fell onto my leg.  I tried to catch them but ended up shoving them deeply into my leg.  UGGG!  I'm sure I'll be fine. 

Have a great day!

Hope You Can Cling To-Day 27

Today's Hope You Can Cling To Challenge is Thanks x2.  We are challenged to make a card that expresses thanks or gratitude using two mediums. 

For my card I used water color paint and embossing. 

 

Stampasssions-Jest a Jester

Embossing Folder-Argyle

Alphabet-Sizzix-Graffiti

 



Hope You Can Cling To-Day 26

We are so close to the end of Hope You Can Cling To.  I love participating in this event every year. 

Today's Challenge is "Let's Cheer!"  You know how in cheers you sometimes spell out words.  Well, that's what today's challenge is...we spelled out BOOBS!  :)

B=use black
O=Use at least 1 circle layer
O=use some type of round gem
B=use blue
S=use a sentiment

Here is my card:

 

B=BLACK-the Nestability dies are circles, shirt, and background for sentiment are black

O=1 CIRCLE LAYER-Nestabilities dies are circles

O=ROUND GEM-two blue round gems by sentiment

B=BLUE-Overalls, background paper, round gems

S=SENTIMENT-"Friends See Things Heart to Heart

 

Supplies:  Stamps:  My Favorite Things-Boy and His Dog-Dog Gone Cute, Dies:  Nestabilities-Beaded Circles, Standard Circles, Sizzix-Branch and Leaves

Hope You Can Cling To-Day 25

Welcome to day 25!!! 
Today's Challenge is to use the Bokeh Technique on our cards.

 Here is a link: http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/resources/tutorials/bokehbackground/

 

I used the hearts for the Bokeh Technique.  The image is from Stamp City-I've had this awhile.  The heart is from Stampabilities, The ribbon is Stampendous-Ribbon Bow Border

Hope You Can Cling To-Day 24

Today's HYCCT Challenge is Resist, Being Resilient, Shining Through, Coming Out On Top!

For today's challenge we are to use a resist technique on our cards. 

I used clear embossing powder resist.  When I was finished, I removed the embossing powder by ironing it without steam between paper. 

 

Stamps:  Sentiment-Purple Onion Designs, Fine & Dandy-Autumn Leaves, Polka Dot Basics-Paper Trey Ink

Hope You Can Cling To-Day 23

HYCCT-Day 23-Tissue? I Hardly Even Know You.

Today's challenge is to use tissue paper on your card. 

 

Stamps:  Ad's-Cornish Heritage Farms, Sentiment-Purple Onion Designs, Leaves-Martha Stewart Crafts

Hope You Can Cling To-Day 22

Today's HYCCT Challenge is "Show Me The Love."  We are to make a card that shows love but doesn't actually say "love."

 

The Bow is from Hot Off The Press!  Fold It Bows Template.

The stamp is Katie and Her Best Friend from Stampassions.

The hears are Coluzzle.   

Hope You Can Cling To-Day 21

Today's Challenge is "Get Inked."

We are challenged to "today's challenge is to drip or spray a liquid ink so that your cardstock gets inked with dots or spots. "

Read more: http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/forums/hope-you-can-cling-challenge-forum-f299/hycct1421-get-inked-chat-thread-t593278.html#ixzz3GoMKn6W7

 

Stamps:  Tattered Angels, Screen Prints Clear Stamps Blossom Trees. 

 

Hope you have a great afternoon!

Hope You Can Cling To-Day 20

Today's Hope You Can Cling To Challenge is "Get Smooshed."  We are to use either an acrylic paint or ink spray "smooch" technique to make a card. 

I used the acrylic paint smoosh technique on my card. 

Supplies:  Sizzix-Tim Holtz- Tattered Flowers
Nestabilities dies,
Stamps:  Martha Stewart-Leaves, Judi Kins-Background, Deco

Purse Palooza-Integral Bow Clutch Review

Hello Everyone!

Are you all enjoying Purse Palooza 2014, so far?  I have been loving every minute!  There are so many talented bag makers and great patterns.  I look forward to this event every year.  I even began to mark it on my calendar.  I'm very grateful that Sara had the awesome idea to organize this event to showcase bag making. 

The pattern I chose to review is the Integral Bow Clutch Pattern designed by Constructivism.  This pattern can be purchased and instantly downloaded by following this link to ConstructivPattern's Etsy Shop.

Integral Bow Clutch

I chose this pattern because I LOVE the look of this bag!  All of the pictures I saw of the finished bag look professional.  It is the perfect size to use for girls night out, dressy or casual event.  It all depends on the fabrics you use.  It will hold a credit card, ID, keys, chap stick and sunglasses. "The finished clutch will measure approx. 29cm (11 1/2") long x 14 cm (5 1/2") wide x 5cm (1 3/4") depth at the base." that is from the pattern description.  If you've ever read my blog or looked at any of the bags I've made, I usually add some kind of embellishment--lately it has been bows.  Need I say more?

Integral Bow Clutch front

Often when I look at bag patterns, I try to pick a pattern that I couldn't make on my own or it includes details on some technique that I want to learn.   I could not figure out how the bow is integrated into the body of this clutch.  Do you want to know how it is done?  I quote "The fabric is pieced together and gathers up to form the bow, like a perfectly wrapped gift!"  Yes, It is!!!  The bag is structured and has a zipper closure.   I added the wrist strap.  It is not included in the pattern.

There are several pattern pieces included in this pattern.  Eleven to be exact.  I know that sounds like a lot especially given the bag size.  I PROMISE it sounds and looks way more intimidating to make than it actually is. 

Integral Bow Clutch Back View

The key to successfully making this pattern is to follow the included "Print and Cut" pattern piece instructions.  Yep, that includes pulling out that X Acto (type) Knife.  Then make sure you make all the marks on all of your pattern pieces....even the sewing lines.  This will make sewing this bag a breeze! 

I really like the instructions provided on how to cut the interfacing.  This is the method I sometimes use when I sew with slick or slippery fabrics.  However, I must admit that I made one bag by first tracing all of the pattern pieces and markings onto the back (non-fusible side) of the interfacing.  Then I cut out the interfacing pieces.  Finally, I fused the interfacing pieces to my fabric.  I think I had slightly less waste this way.   

The pattern suggests using a firm heavyweight non-fusible stabilizer for the front and back panels.  I used Pellon #70.   It also suggest using a mid-weight fusible woven interfacing (Shape Flex 101).  I used Pellon 950F.   When using Pellon #70 in this bag, it is not difficult to sew with because there is a pattern piece included that has the markings that are needed and excludes the seam allowances.  This allows for easy sewing and turning.  Hemming tape is used to adhere the Pellon #70 panel to the back fabric panel.  You sew directly on the front Pellon panel to make the bow. 

As for the sewing difficulty level, the pattern designer states that "I aim to create clear, professional, detailed PDF patterns & step-by-step tutorials with loads of photos & diagrams."  This is exactly how I would describe this pattern and instructions.  They are very clear precise and include lots of pictures and enough details with out having too many details (does that make sense?).  For this reason, I would think that even beginner could follow along to make this bag.  If you are a beginner and still question it,  take a moment to read other reviewers comments in the Etsy Shop.   Several of them made this bag having little sewing experience. 

There is a brief explanation on how to make the bow  piece longer, if you wish to do so.  I did not extend the bow on either of the bags I made. 



Integral Bow Clutch inside of bag with slip pocket to hold credit card and or ID.

The inside of the bag is fully lined and includes one slip pocket.  On the bags I made I slightly modified this pocket.  I made the seam allowances a scant 1/4".  Doing this allows the pocket to be the perfect size to hold your credit card and ID. 

Integral Bow Clutch view of top zipper closure

I will definitely be making this bag again.  I always have several grab bag type gift exchanges around the holidays.  I plan on making a few of these bags for this purpose. 

Thank you!

Hope You Can Cling To-Day 19

Today's HYCCT Challenge is "Spread It Around!" 
We are challenged to use embossing paste on our cards. 

If you aren't familiar with what embossing paste is, do a search.  I actually had a jar of this that I bought a long time ago.  I was more shocked that it wasn't dried-up. 

Originally, the stencil that I used was an entire present.  But I was having trouble fitting it onto a card that I liked.  So, I cut off the bow. 

 

The paper is From K& Company-Sweet Nectar, The Doily Die-Papertrey Ink, The leaves and Sunset Alphabet-Sizzix. 

 

Have a great day!

Hope You Can Cling To-Day 18

Today is day 18 of Hope You Can Cling To.  Our challenge is to "Keep Connected."  We are to make a card that illustrates the idea of keeping connected. 

 

Yep, I guess you can say I was thinking "old fashioned."  Who uses a typewriter anymore?  LOL!  Well, there are still a few people who prefer to use a typewriter.  Plus, I wanted to use this stamp.  :)  The typewriter stamp set is from Stampabilities, the back ground text is from Cornish Heritage Farms. 

 

I completely copied this card layout from something I saw online.  Of course, I can't find the link now. 

 

Have a great weekend!

Hope You Can Cling To-Day 17

Today's HYCCT Challenge is "All That Binds Us!"  We are challenged to make a card that has the spine bound. 

Hope You Can Cling To-Day 16

Here we are already at day #16!  WOW! 

Today's challenge is to NOT use a stamp on your card. 

I used my Cricut Machine.

Hope You Can Cling To-Day 15

Happy Wednesday! 
Today's HYCCT Challenge is to make a card that uses something soft and cozy or use an image that evokes the image of being soft and cozy. 

I used this cute House-Mouse Image-Together Under The Moon

Hope You Can Cling To-Day 14

Today's HYCCT1414 Challenge is "It's Time to Step Up!"  The Challenge is to make a step card. 

 

Here is my step up card.  I used my Cricut Machine.  The bike is from Summer in Paris, the pennant is from Pretty Pennants Cartridge, and the cloud is from Cricut Basics.  

Hope You Can Cling To-Day 13

Welcome to HYCCT1413-Heart Song Challenge!


Today's challenge is to use music, hearts, birds, words of encouragement on a card. 

 

The stamp is Kitty Chorus from Stamps Happen. 

 

There is a music sheet background stamp from Purple Onion Designs. 

 

The sentiment is from Tim Holtz.

Hope You Can Cling To-Day 12

Today's HYCCT1412 Challenge is all about "Warm Fuzzies."  For this challenge we are to use warm colors with fuzzies such as an image of an animal, blanket, sweater, etc...

 

All the papers I used are scraps...don't even know the name of the paper line.  I've also had the bear image for a waaaayyyy long time.  It is from Provo Craft.  

Hope You Can Cling To-Day 11

Welcome to HYCCT1411-Chicks Stick Together.

Today's Challenge is to make a card to celebrate your sister peeps, friends, or friendships.  Use images of friends, friendship sentiments or chickens. 

 

I used a Sizzix Chicken Die that I've had FOREVER!  :) 

 

Have a great day!

Hope You Can Cling To-Day 10

Today's Challenge is "Something's Missing."  We are challenged to make a card with something missing. 

 

As you can see.....my card is missing a face.  LOL! 

 

Mustache Die-We R Memory Keepers

Stamps-TPC Studio-TPC Disguises

Hope You Can Cling To-Day 9

Greetings! 

Today is day 9 of the HYCCT Challenges.  Today's Challenge is titled "Laughter is the Best Medicine." 
Today's challenge is to use humor on your card.  Admittedly, I have a lot of humorous stamps.  I don't know if I've ever used the stamps I used to make this card.  That's why I've used them. 

 

The stamps and sentiment are from Inkadinkado Humorous Birthday Set.  The doily die is from Paper Trey Ink. 

 

Take care!

Hope You Can Cling To-Day 8

Welcome to day 8 of the HYCCT Challenges on Split Coast Stampers. 

Today's challenge is "My Hero"

Today's challenge is to make a card that is inspired by someone that is your hero. 

 

The coffee cup stamp and sentiment are from Fiskers.  The Coffee Stain stamp is from Just For Fun Stamps.  

Hope You Can Cling To-Day 7

Happy Tuesday! 

Today's HYCCT1407 Challenge-"Spoonful of Sugar" is to include something sugary sweet on your card. 

I found the strawberry cone image on Pintrest.  Here is a link  I used a honeycomb embossing folder and daisy punches. 

Hope you are having a fantastic day! 

HYCCT-Day 6

Today's HYCCT Challenge is "A Bear For My Sister."  Today we are to use a bear image because bears are an iconic image for comfort.  They definitely are cute and cuddly and make me smile. 

 

 

 

 

I bought this bear image at a convention and I don't remember who the mfg. is.  So, if you know, please let me know. 

 

 

Thank you!  Have a great day!

 

HYCCT-Day 5

Hello again! 
Today's HYCCT Challenge is titled "Two by Two, Side by Side."  The lady that hosted today's challenge had a sister that breast cancer.  So, she has been participating in The Sister Study.    "...the Sister Study which is made up 50,000 women whose sisters have had breast cancer." 

Our challenge today is to use BOTH pink and purple on our card, and some element, or elements of the card to be in twos.  Two flowers, two trees, two gals...sisters....

 

 

I have used this image many times.  I think it is adorable.  The stamp is "Lovin' & Huggin'" from Penny Black.  I have had this image for maaanny years.  So, it might no longer be avail.  I also used scraps of paper that I've had for many years. 

 

Thank you!

HYCCT-Day 3

Today's challenge is "Stripping Down"

We are to use strips of paper to make a background.  I used the herringbone technique to make mine.  I then ran my background through an embossing folder. 
The Flowers are a die from My Favorite Things.  The leaves are a punch from McGill, The sentiment is a stamp from My Favorite Things. 

Hope you are having a fantastic day!

HYCCT-Day 4

Today's challenge is "Holding it Together."  Split Coast Stampers HYCCT

We are to make a card where you don't use any adhesive.  I used several methods.  Like I used Tim Holtz's little staples, I used machine and hand sewing.   This was a fun challenge.  :)

 

Have a great day!

Hope You Can Cling To-Day 2

Happy Birthday to my MUCH OLDER brother!  Yep, he is ummmmmm 29.  (that makes me younger too, right?) :)

Day 2-Hope Floats!

I loved this movie.  I have seen it several times.  Anyone else love this movie, too?

Today's challenge is to have something on your card that reflects floating.  I chose an Art Impression Image where the lady has a rubber ducky float around her waist.  These AI images crack me up.  LOVE THEM!  I'm certain the manufacturer of the sentiment stamp.  It is a rubber stamp with foam top....no name. 

Split Coast Stampers:  HYCCT1402

Hope You Can Cling To-Day 1

It is October and time for Hope You Can Cling To (HYCCT) 2014! 
I think I have made 2 cards since last year's HYCCT.  It kind of feels foreign to make cards again, but I have been enjoying it. 
Day one had 3 challenges. 


Day 1-Challenge 1-You Raise  Me Up Challenge. 

There was a video tutorial explain how to do Paper Tole.  Since, I haven't been around card making lately this was new to me.  I chose an image that would be simple and few layers for my first try.  It is kind of fun! 
Here is a link to the Split Coast Stampers Thread HYCCT1401A

 

The Teddy Bear image is from Rubber Stampede, Inc.  I have had this stamp for many years. 

 

 

Day 1-Challenge B-Shine On!

This challenge is to use a light to convey hope. 

Here is the link to Split Coast Stampers HYCCT1401B

 

The lamp image is from the stamp set Decorative Lamps from Hero Arts.  The paper I used are scraps.  The alphabet is Sizzix Bozo Font.  Can you tell I haven't bought supplies in years?  LOL

 

 

 

Day 1-Challenge C-Hold On To Your Hope

 

This challenge is to include something on your card that you can hold on to. 

 

Here is the Split Coast Stampers Link:  HYCCT1401C

 

 

The teapot image is from Basic Grey. The paper ribbon, buttons and paper are scraps. 

 

That's all for day 1--See you later!