Too Cool Stamping

New Occasions Mini Kick-Off Party Details!

New Occasions Mini Kick-Off Party!

Register by January 3, at noon!  Space is limited!  Contact me today to sign up!

• What: New Occasions Mini Kick-Off Party
• When: January 4, from 6pm-10pm (open house style, come when you want and work at your own pace, but you won't want to miss one minute of fun!)
• Where: Angie's Too Cool Stamping Studio
• Projects: Create 4 Make & Takes with new items from Occasions Mini
• What To Bring: SNAIL Adhesive or equivilent, Bone Folder, everything else is provided
• Cost: $15, or FREE with $25 order (placed that night)
• Fun: Door prize raffle, light refreshments, and more surprises!

***It's a Too Cool Stamping Party like no other!  Don't miss it!***

Kick-Off Party Projects & Details!

 I finished making all of the projects for the New Occasions Mini Kick-Off Party last night and I know you're gonna love them! 

Check out the four make & takes you'll be creating...

I had so much fun trying to use as many of the new products as I could on these projects! 

These four cards showcase 15 new products from the Occasions Mini, plus one new item from the the upcoming Sale-A-Bration flyer.

• Hearts Collection Framelits
• Labels Collection Framelits
• Paper Doily Sizzlits Die
• Adorning Accents Embossing Folders
• Cherry Cobbler Dazzling Details
• Bordering On Romance stamp set
• Riding Hood Red Pleated Satin Ribbon
• Baja Breeze Pleated Satin Ribbon
• Twitterpated DSP
• Take It To Heart stamp set
• Tea Shoppe stamp set
• Pool Party Seam Binding
• Apothecary Art stamp set
• Lucky Limeade Baker's Twine
• Fashinable Hearts Embosslits Die
• Everyday Enchantment DSP (Sale-a-Bration)

*I'll post details on how to create these projects after the New Occasions Mini goes live!

Try-Its—In addition to the make & takes, I'll also be having a few Try-Its at this event, where you can play with even more products...

• Blushing Bride Color Smooch
• Designer Cuts Cards
• Adorning Accents Edgelits & Embossing with Envelopes

Door Prizes—Several prizes will be given away.  Every attendee gets one raffle ticket automatically, but you can earn more tickets for bringing a friend who's never stamped with me before, ordering, hosting, and signing up to become a demo that night. 

More Fun!—They'll be light refreshments and a few more surprises, too!  

Register by January 3, at noon!  Space is limited!  Contact me today to sign up!

Angie

Carryover Items, Kick-Off Party & You Are Loved Valentine's Class

Hi Everyone—I've missed you!  I hope you all had a lovely holiday!  I've been enjoying a very relaxing week off, watching the complete boxed set of Gilmore Girls, and walking the final miles of my 1500-mile goal for 2011 (I did it!).

Now I'm all refreshed and ready to blog again!  And, boy oh boy, there are some exciting things coming up as we transition into the new year!

Last Chance For Holiday Mini Items—Ends January 3

Did you get everything you wanted from the Holiday Mini?  If you didn't, or if you have some Christmas money to spend, don't miss you last chance to purchase items from this catalog.  Although some of the stamps sets may reappear in the upcoming 2012-2013 Idea Book & Catalog, we have no way of knowing which (if any) will make it. Order now!

Holiday Mini Carryover Items

Stampin' Up! has just announced which Holiday Mini tools and accessories will still be available for purchase after the flyer expires on January 3.  See the Complete Carryover Items List for details.

Clearance Rack Blitz—New Products Added!

It's the last week of the Clearance Rack Blitz!  It all ends January 5, or while supplies last!  Although the original selection has dwindled, Stampin' Up! has added additional merchandise!  That's right!  If you haven't been there for a few days, you may want to check it out the Clearance Rack again! 

You're Invited—Occasions Mini Kick-Off Party!

Come and try out the new Occasions Mini Catalog items!  We'll create 4 make & takes featuring fun new items from the Mini!   

• What: New Occasions Mini Kick-Off Party
•  When: January 4, from 6pm-10pm (open house style, come when you want)
• Where: Angie's Too Cool Stamping Studio
• Projects: Create 4 Make & Takes with new items from Occasions Mini & Sale-A-Bration 
• Cost: $15, or FREE with $25 order
• Fun: Door prize raffle, light refreshments, and more surprises!

RSVP Deadline is January 2, and space is limited, so contact me today to attend.

I'm still working on these projects (I've been very busy with the Gilmore Girls, ya know), but I plan to have some sneak peeks this weekend...

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Don't Miss The You Are Loved Valentine's Stamp Set & Class 

One of my favorite stamp sets in the Holiday Mini is the You Are Loved set!  It makes me so sad that this set never got its chance to really shine before it is no longer available on January 3.  I love it so much that, even though it will be gone soon, I'm still featuring it in my Valentines Class on January 30.  But, if you wait until the class, you won't be able to order it—order the You Are Loved set now!

FREE CLASS!  I don't have the cost figured out for that class yet, but how about this?  If you purchase the You Are Loved stamp set, in either wood ($31.95) or clear ($23.95), plus the Love Blossoms Stampin' Around Wheel ($6.95), you can attend the class for FREE!

   

 

Valentine's Coupon Book Sneak Peek

One of the projects we'll be creating at my You Are Loved Valentine's Class is a super-cute Valentine's Day Coupon Book using the Petite Pockets die. 

The pockets pull-outs can be used as coupons that your Valentine can redeem for things like a hug, a "pamper me" day, dinner & a movie, control over the remote, whatever makes them feel special.

Learn how to make this project and more at my class!  More details to come...

Angie

Don't Save It All For Christmas Day

No stamping today...just wanted to wish all my Too Cool Stamping blog readers a very Merry Christmas to all those who celebrate!  May the joy of the season be yours today and every day!

Don't Save It All For Christmas Day!

 

Many of you already know that I love (love, LOVE!) Clay Aiken, especially when he sings Christmas music!  This song is one of my favorites, and it has a great message to give a little love every day!  (Plus, he sings his face off!)

"How could you wait another minute?  A hug is warmer when you're in it!" 

Enjoy!

Angie

 

Blossom Boxes With Snowflake Rosettes

Yesterday, I got the chance to play Stamping Santa for my downline! 

  

Two Cool Boxes: I made these cute little boxes from the Blossom Box Die and topped them off with a lovely Lace Ribbon Border Punch snowflake medallion.

Now, the Too Cool Santa still has a few more presents to drop off before Christmas, so I can't show you what's inside...but let's just say that this box is the perfect size for a round Stampin' Up! embellishment jar! *wink, wink*

Blossom Box Die Tips

I have to admit that I was a little bit intimidated by all the folds in the Blossom Box when I first got this die.  But, once I created a couple boxes, the rest were a piece of cake. 

TIP 1: Using a Crease Pad is a must with this project!  There are tons of score lines, and you need them to show up well.  I also used a piece of card stock for a shim.

TIP 2: Use Designer Series Paper, card stock is too thick for all the folds on this box.  You'll need 2 pieces of 8-1/2 x 4-1/2" pieces, and you have to run them through the Big Shot one at a time. 

TIP 3: Use a Designer Series Paper that has minimal print, at least when you are first starting, so you can see the fold lines better.  I used paper from the Brights Designer Series Patterns Stack.

TIP 4: I discovered that it was a lot faster, and more precise, to use my fingers to get the folds in the right place, rather than trying to use my Bone Folder.  I could find where the score lines met and pinch them to make them crisp, rather than blindly searching for the crease with my Bone Folder. 

TIP 5: It helps to fold the lines in a certain order, but I didn't like the order that was suggested in the directions.  I used Sticky Strip to attach the two sides of the box together first, then I folded the lines in this order:

• Pinch the center-most folds that will make up the base circle of the box.  You can go back and make these more crisp folds later.
• Next, fold the vertical straight lines that go from the box bottom to the notch between the blossom petals.
• Pinch-fold the horizontal middle lines.  
• Finally, on the remaining vertical score lines, you want to pinch and hold at the tiny pie shape between the base line and middle line, then fold the top of the vertical line over.  Crease all these folds all the way around, then go back and hold them together to close the box.  

OK—I know that without visuals, it's really difficult to understand what I'm talking about.  Luckily, Dawn Olchefske has a wonderful video tutorial that will help you out!  Find it here: Blossom Box Die tutorial.

Lace Border Snowflake Rosette

The pretty snowflake is created with the Lace Ribbon Border Punch and the Simply Scored Tool.  I started with a piece of Whisper White card stock that was 1" x 8-1/2".  Using the Simply Scored Tool, I scored along the long edge every 1/4" inch. 

Next, punch along the entire length of the card stock with the Lace Border Punch, then accordion fold along the scored lines. 

I used Tombow Multipurpose Glue to adhere the two ends of the card stock, and also to glue the medallion shape onto a 1" Circle Punch of Whisper White card stock to hold it in place.  Sticky Strip will also work.

Again, it probably helps to have some visuals, so I'll point you to a helpful tutorial by Mary Fish: Snowflake Rosette.

I had so much fun making these!  Really much easier to create than they look!  If you live in the Fort Wayne area, I could even give you personal instruction on this (or any other project) in my Too Cool Stamping Studio!  Just contact me to set up a time!

The Clearance Rack Blitz is still going on!  Don't miss these FABULOUS specials, with discounts up to 80% off, only while supplies last through January 5!  Order online today!

Angie

Glittering Santa Ornament by Darla

It's almost that Ho, Ho, Ho time and today's project is a terrific way to decorate for the occasion!

I found this photo on my friend Darla Eigenschink's Facebook page...aren't these Santa ornaments THE BEST?!  She even brought me one of my very own ornaments at our Too Cool Demo Meeting on Monday night!

And, they are easy to make, too! 

Glittering The Ornament: Use Riding Hood Red Re-Inkers to coat the inside of the plastic or glass ornaments.  Then, while the ink is still wet, add Fine Red Glitter and shake it well until the inside is completely covered. Dump out the excess glitter.

Decorating The Ornament: Darla used 3/8" Black Grosgrain Ribbon, which Stampin' Up! doesn't carry.  But you could substitute 1/4" Black Grosgrain (wrapped around twice to make it wider), or try the 5/8" Black Satin Ribbon.  Use Glue Dots to hold ribbon on, or hot glue always works, too. 

The buckle is made from Rhinestone Jewels.  Darla noted that she had tried self-adhering rhinestones that were from "other stores," but those usually had too much adhesive on them that had to be trimmed off before applying.  I've had problems like that with other rhinestones, as well.  Stampin' Up! Rhinestones are stuck individually in the package, so you can lift them off one at a time for easy placement and no glue trimming! 

You can find the supplies you need for this project (except the ornament that you can find at your local craft store) at my Online Store!

Thanks so much for sharing your project, Darla!  Too Cool!

The Clearance Rack Blitz is still going on!  Don't miss these FABULOUS specials, with discounts up to 80% off, only while supplies last through January 5!  Order online today!

Angie

Retiring Stocking Builder Punch Available While Supplies Last!

Oh my gosh!  I don't believe it!

Stampin' Up! has just informed us that the awesomely extraordinary Stocking Builder Punch will not be carried over to the new catalog

AND, not only that, but it will only be available WHILE SUPPLIES LAST!  (Which means it could sell out at any time!  EEEeeep!)

They rarely ever retire a punch after such a limited time—especially one that has been so popular! 

If you've been eyeing this punch ACT NOW—order the Stocking Builder Punch (and the coordinating Stitched Stockings stamp set) now at my Online Store!

Last chance for purple stamped stocking & Silver Glimmer Paper punched stockings!

Last chance for Frostwood Lodge DSP and Red Glimmer Paper punched stockings!

Last chance to make cute little Stocking Punch baby booties!

Last chance to make an adorable Stocking Punch hobby horse (this one was created by Jackie Topa)!

Get yours, before it's too late!  Order now!

While your placing your online order, don't forget to check out the fabulous deals—up to 80% off—during the Clearance Rack Blitz!  Going on now through January 5—also while supplies last!

Angie

Serene Snowflakes Card By Kris

Today's card is one that I received from one of my stamping friends, Kris Carter.

 

Not only does it use nearly all Stampin' Up! products, but it's also in purples!!!  Love it!

Kris used the Serene Snowflakes stamp set with Concord Crush and Wisteria Wonder inks.  Her silver accents (Brushed Silver Card Stock layer, retired Silver Cord, and small silver stamped snowflakes) give a touch of elegance to this regal combination. 

The card is delightfully embellished with Wisteria Wonder Ruffled Ribbon and Rhinestone Jewels. The sentiment is from Bright Hopes.

Thanks so much for sending your card, Kris! 

Angie

Super Simple Snowflake

Here's a last-minute Christmas card idea for the busy, busy crafter!  Talk about simple!

 

You can have one of these Two Cool cards cut and assembled in less than 2 minutes!  Well, maybe a little longer for the stepped-up version.  But still...very, very easy!

Both cards use the Snowflake Punch for the focal point, with designer paper showing through and a Rhinestone Jewel in the center.  And, both use sentiments from the Four The Holidays set. 

The second card adds some embossing with the Snow Burst Impressions Folder.  I ran it through twice to get the top and bottom embossed, leaving an unembossed strip near the bottom.

I liked how the Cherry Cobbler Baker's Twine accented the red paper from the Frostwood Lodge Designer Paper, so I added accents with that.  A couple more Rhinestones, and it looks marvelous!

Complete Supplies List:

• Stamps—Four The Holidays
• Ink—Riding Hood Red (card #1), Garden Green (card #2)
• Paper—Regals Designer Paper Stack (card #1), Frostwood Lodge DSP (card #2), Early Espresso, Cherry Cobbler (card #1), Garden Green (card #2), Whisper White card stock 
  
• Accessories—Cherry Cobbler Baker's Twine (card #2), Rhinestone Jewels
  
•  Tools—Snowflake Punch, Snow Burst Impressions Folder, Multipurpose Glue, SNAIL

You can purchase all the supplies to create this card at my Stampin' Up! Online Store!

Angie

With All My Heart Occasions Mini Sneak Peek

Clearance Rack Blitz Link Is Fixed!

So, apparently my link didn't work for the Clearance Rack Blitz yesterday...this Clearance Rack link should work fine!  Sorry about that!  I certainly don't want you to miss your opportunity for some excellent deals!

Seriously, check out the prices on a few of these products!  Unbelievable discounts of up to 80% off on really cool items!

Love Patterns Designer Paper—Only $1.99!

Baja Breeze Glass Glitter—Only $1.59!

Heart-To-Heart Punch—Only $9.59!  (Most old-style punches are now available!)

These items are only available while supplies last through January 5, 2012—but they are going fast! Visit the Clearance Rack today at my Online Store!

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Sneak Peek!  Sneak Peek!  Sneak Peek!

OK—How about a sneak peak from the upcoming Occasions Mini Catalog today?!  I was trying to hold out, but I just can't wait any longer!  I'm way too excited to share some of the new stuff I've been playing with! 

 

I created a couple of Too Cool cards with 6 new items from the 2012 Occasions Mini (coming January 4), and one item from the upcoming Sale-A-Bration flyer (coming January 24). 

• Hearts Framelits—A set of 6 thin, wafer-like dies easily cut layers of hearts in multiple sizes (think Nestabilities).  I cut the heart window and Soft Suede heart layer behind the stamped image with these new dies.  (They're also available in a beautiful "label" shape!
• Adorning Accents Edgelits Dies—Similar to the Framelits, only designed to cut fancy borders like the double scalloped edge you see here.  The package comes with a designer "bracket" edgelit, too!
• Adorning Accents Textured Impressions Folders—See those cute texture embossed hearts along the bottom?  You'll find this small folder, as well as two others, in a package designed to coordinate with the Edgelits Dies! 
• Fashionable Hearts Embosslits Die—All those cute little die-cut & embossed hearts in various sizes come from this tiny die.  It's just like the very popular Beautiful Wings Embosslit, only hearts!
• Take It To Heart—You'll love the pretty heart images in this 5-stamp set!  And, of course, the images coordinate with the Hearts Framelits! 
• Pleated Satin Ribbon—One of my favorites from the new catalog!  It's so soft and flirty!  I've used Pear Pizzazz here, but it also comes in Blushing Bride, Baja Breeze and Riding Hood Red!
• Everyday Enchantment Designer Series Paper—Last, but not least, check out the striped paper on along the bottom.  It's from the full pack of 12x12" exclusive Designer Series Paper you can earn with a $50 order during Sale-A-Bration.  It's a fresh, elegant collection of paper with a touch of distressing in Lucky Limeade, Pool Party, Peach Parfait, Calypso Coral, Poppy Parade and Soft Suede.  (And, there just might be some ribbon and brads to match...shhh!)

I decorated the inside of the card with more of the Fashionable Hearts...so cute!

Other Card Details: I inked the stamp with Calypso Coral ink, then used a Soft Suede Marker to color the edges before stamping.  That image is punched with the Full Heart Punch.  The "With All My" stamp is from the With All My Heart set.  I spritzed the entire card with Champagne Shimmer Mist Paint & alcohol spray mixture. 

You're Invited to Play With The New Stuff! 

Even more fun, fun stuff is coming your way in the Occasions Mini!  You are invited to come and play with the new stuff at my New Occasions Mini Kick-Off Party on January 4.  You'll even get a sneak peek of the new Sale-A-Bration items before they are available on January 24.

• What: New Occasions Mini Kick-Off Party—Open House style
• When: January 4, from 6pm-10pm
• Where: Angie's Too Cool Stamping Studio
• Projects: Create 4 Make & Takes with new items from Occasions Mini & Sale-A-Bration 
• Cost: $15, or FREE with $25 order
• Fun: Door prize raffle and light refreshments!

More Details Coming Soon!  Space Is Limited, Sign Up Today!

Angie

Clearance Rack Blitz & Connie's Come To Bethlehem Card

Clearance Rack Blitz!  Items Up To 80% Off!

From December 15, 2011, through January 5, 2012, nearly 200 products have been added to the Clearance Rack in the Online Store--with some discounted up to 80 percent!  Take advantage of these huge savings!  Visit the Clearance Rack today at my Online Store!

If you order with expedited shipping you can still give these discounted items as Christmas gifts, too!

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I received a beautiful Come To Bethlehem card from one of my downline members, Connie Forrester, and it is too beautiful not to share!

 

From the embossing, to the glitter, to the ribbon, this card is filled with lovely layers of texture and shiny details! 

The Early Espresso card base is stamped with an image similar to the Music Notes Stampin' Around Wheel, then gold embossed.  The sentiment is also gold embossed on the bottom. 

Connie layered Crumb Cake Seam Binding and Early Espresso Quilted Satin Ribbon, and finished it off with a pretty double bow.  A Silver Brad accents the center of the bow.

For the main image, she stamped the Come To Bethlehem image in Early Espresso ink onto Crumb Cake card stock, then added a sparkling layer of Champagne Glass Glitter with Multipurpose Tombow Glue.

Dazzling Diamonds glitter was added to represent stars in the sky.  And, of course the Star of Bethlehem is highlighted with a Rhinestone Jewel.  

But, that wasn't the end of the details! 

Connie decorated the inside to be reminiscent of the manger.  You can create the embossed edges by drawing a line with a VersaMark Pen, then adding gold embossing powder and heating. 

Wow!  I know how much work went into this card, and I feel honored to have made her Christmas card list!  Thanks so much for sending me your artwork, Connie! 

Angie