Stamping with Noel

Success: Handmade Gift for the Girls

Today I want to share with you the handmade gift for girls that my daughter gave her 9 year old friends this year.  It seems that although girls seem to be growing up so much faster than they did when I was a child, journals and notebooks still have popular appeal!

    

Basic Tutorial:

Notebooks:

These notebooks are simply composition notebooks bought on sale at an office supply store (end of the school year and start of the school year are a great time to pick up on office supplies for your crafts!) and covered with Designer Series Paper.  I have found that the best and easiest adhesive for this task is our Anywhere Glue Stick.  You get great coverage, can move the paper around a bit upon application and it holds great! 

TIP:  Don't forget to sand the edges with our Designer Sanding Blocks when you are done to give a cleaner look and hide any mistakes. 

Pen:

The pen is simply an pentel RSVP pen from the office supply store with a small piece of Designer Series Paper to match rolled into the barrel. 

Another tip:  roll your paper around the outside barrel of the pen to help break the fibers and get the paper rolling, then roll around the ink insert for insertion.

Flower Bookmark:

The flower bookmark is done with the Big Shot and the Flower Folds Die - a great way to recycle old clothing (I used a lot of maternity and baby clothing for mine!).  The original tutorial for the fabric flower was done by Stampin' Up! founder and CEO Shelli Gardner two years ago (click here to see her tutorial), but this year I've taken another idea that has been circulating and added ribbon and a pony tail holder with hot glue to turn the flower into an expandable book mark!  After running a brad through the middle of my flower, I hot glued the hair band around the brads before folding them over the band.  Then I hot glued a piece of felt over the rubberband to cover the 'messies'.  At that point all you have left to do is to hot glue the ribbon loosely around the ends of the hairband.  This gives your ribbon bookmark the ability to stretch around various sized books!

My daughter and her friends love their journals ... and several of the girls have commented that they could wear their bookmarks as a headband ... which definitely stirs up new ideas and projects in my mind.  How about yours?

If you would like to try out the Big Shot before purchasing, and live in the Santa Barbara area, why not join me for my Focus on the Big Shot class in February?  More information can be found here.

Happy Crafting,

Noel

Planning for the New Year in My Digital Studio!

Today I've been playing with My Digital Studio and creating a few calendar embellishments/pages and I thought I'd share with you my meandering thoughts - bear with me!

Christmas day has passed, but the energy and excitement of the holiday season are still here.  Our tree is still decorated and it greets me with it's twinkling lights each morning (but won't make it to my family's traditional January 2nd - as it is already dry and no longer absorbing water ... time to take it down).  The children are happily acquainting themselves with their new toys, gadgets and gifts.  Mornings are slow and filled with the warmth of togetherness. 

This is a time to look back over the past year and to look forward to what is to come...

As I look to the New Year, many words come to mind:

• countdown
• confetti
• fireworks
• party
• beginnings
• reflection
• hopes
• resolutions
• dreams
• champagne
• excitement
• crowds
• noise

But I think the one word that is screaming to me the loudest this year is:

 POSSIBILITIES! 

In all aspects of my life (including my crafts), limitless possibilities stretch out before me and I reach out to them with anticipation.  As we approach the New Year, I hope you find yourself with new goals, new enthusiasm, and an eagerness to learn. 

Noel

Note:  The 'torn' calendar page at the top of this post was created with My Digital Studio.  What to learn more?  Contact me.

 

How long will you leave up your Christmas Tree? & a New Project!

 

Christmas Day has passed and our tree is drying out, starting to droop, and looking a little sad without all of the colorful packages underneath - but I still enjoyed coming downstairs to the lights of the tree this morning. 

And this morning my tree prompted me to begin a new project!

Each year I take great joy in reacquainting myself with my ornaments ... in taking each one out of the box and remembering who gave it to me (or better yet, made it for me!), on what vacation the family and I purchased it (our primary souvenir for each vacation is an ornament for each tree), and even what types of crafts I have used on my own handmade ornaments.  This year is the year I will photograph the key ornaments as they come off the tree to use in a mini book - or two - to tell the story of the ornaments.  Maybe there will be one book dedicated to the family travel souvenirs, and another for the family heritage ornaments?  I don't know yet, but each ornament will have a story and My Digital Studio will be waiting to help me organize and create.

How long will you leave your tree up?  Do you have any traditions associated with the set up and tear down of your tree?  Leave a comment below.  I'd love to hear your story.  Maybe you will add to my own process/traditions.

Happy Crafting,

Noel

My Digital Studio Christmas Greeting Card For You!

 

I want to wish all of you and yours a very Merry Christmas and happy holiday season! 

Noel  

Mocha Morning Designer Series Paper Goes Digital With MDS!

I always love to check out the new downloads released by Stampin' Up! for My DigitalStudio.  This week I was happy to see my favorite Designer Series Paper has finally made it to the list:

 Mocha Morning Designer Series Paper Goes Digital With MDS!

In addition to this gorgeous paper, there is a great family tree image available (Sweetly Nested Frameable Designer Template Digital Download)

This would make a beautiful frameable art piece, but I also see it as a  cover page to a family picture book for my children!

If you haven't looked at the available My Digital Studio downloads recently, you should take a peek (click here)... there is so much to offer!

Happy Crafting,

Noel

Sorry To Say Goodbye!

 

Today marked the last email from my 12 Weeks of Christmas series.  I want to thank all of you who followed along and shared your feedback with me along the way.  I'm hoping that many of the card, gift and packaging ideas I shared with you have have inspired you to create your own holiday crafts - whether you C.A.S.E. the ideas directly or use one of the new techniques I shared in your own way.

If you enjoyed this series, please leave me a comment below.  Let me know what your favorite project was ... what you would like to see more of ... maybe even which projects or techniques you have recreated!  

For those of you just finding me now, while you've missed out on a fun 12 weeks, I hope you will sign up for my mailing list anyways.  In addition to the projects and techniques shared on my blog and in my classes, I continue to send out inspiring and informative newsletters on a monthly basis AND I'll definitely continue with the 12 Weeks of Christmas idea again next year!

Happy Holidays Everyone!

Noel 

Decorated Candle Series, Part 4: Mini Candle Pins with the Big Shot

Did you enjoy my Candle Pins made with the Big Shot earlier this week (see original post here)? I have another candle pin handmade gift idea that you just have to try!

 

These pins are yet another simple project with a big impact!  I would gift them in sets of 3 or 5 - allowing the recipient to create a little forest of Christmas trees for greater impact. 

Again I cut my candle pin pieces (in this case the christmas trees) from aluminum flashing from the hardware store using the Big Shot Machine and the the Stocking Accents Die.  The rhinestones are colored with Sharpie Markers, and a flat head tack is glued to the back with E6000 glue.  The candle 'cup' is a mini brioche bakeware mold spray painted red on the outside - available at home stores for about 50 cents each.

Tip:  These brioche molds are sized such that you can place it upside down over an empty toilet paper roll to spray paint.  Spraying downward prevents paint from hitting the inside of the mold and keeps your paint line crisp.

Have you asked your personal Santa for a Big Shot this Christmas?  Time is getting tight, but if I hear from your Santa by Wednesday night, I'd be happy to put together a gift certificate that Santa could tuck into your stocking.  Just have Santa contact me directly.

Happy Crafting,

Noel

Decorated Candle Series, Part 3: Candle Pins

These candle pins were inspired by a cross version I've seen in a high end magazine.  I love the idea of a decorated pillar candle that you can burn and yet still have last forever!  Everyone who has received these pins has loved them ... but I have a few more going out that won't be opened until Christmas and I can't wait to see what the recipients think.

To use, simply insert the candle pin into any pillar candle.  When the candle burns down, remove the candle pin and insert into a new candle.  

I did a couple varieties for the craft fair I participated in a couple weeks ago, but this was my personal favorite.  These candle pins were cut using the Big Shot Machine and the Lattice Bigz Die, as well as the Stocking Accents Die.  I cut my shapes from aluminum flashing from the hardware store (another magic material in my craft room).  Once they were assembled they were glued to large flat head furniture tacks using industrial strength glue. 

Want to learn how to color the aluminum flashing for the holly berries and leaves?  I'll be posting instructions soon.  It's easier than you may think!

If I haven't convinced you yet that you need to purchase the Stocking Accents Die from the current Holiday Mini (which runs through January 3rd, 2012) - I have another candle option for you coming up with this die.  You are not going to want to miss it!

Happy Crafting,

Noel 

Have You Checked Out The Clearance Rack Blitz?

STAMPIN' UP! CLEARANCE RACK BLITZ - SAVE UP TO 80%!

NOW through January 5, 2012, nearly 200 products are being added to the Stampin' Up! Clearance Rack - with some discounted up to 80 percent!

* punches in both the new and old style (for those who have been pining over the style change, now is the time to pick up some of the old style punches you missed out on before!)

* Big Shot dies

* Designer series paper

* Ribbon

* and more!

These great deals are only available when you purchase on-line and while supplies last.  And some items are selling out quickly!

Click here to shop now!

Happy Crafting,

Noel

Decorated Candles Series, Part 2: Glass Glittered Pillar Candles in Glass Hurricane

Here is another simple last minute handmade gift idea using candles - this time around I created a glass glittered candle inserted into a 'hurricane' vase. 

If you have ever looked to purchase a glass hurricane for your pillar candles, you know that they can be quite expensive.  Here is my hurricane on a budget idea ... simple stemless wine tumblers available at home stores across the country for a reasonable price!  Just make certain to measure the diameter of your candle and the opening of the wine glass ... and you will need an extra quarter inch to ensure the decorated candle can slide in!

Likewise, glittered candles are also available for purchase, but often at a premium - so why not make your own and save?

Directions:  Glass Glittered Candles

1. Purchase a pillar candle in the size appropriate to your project.
   
   
2. Wrap strips of Sticky Strip around your candles in a pleasing pattern.
   
   
3. Remove the red liner from the Sticky Strip and pour Champagne Glass Stampin' Glitter over the exposed tape over your Powder Pal (to catch the excess glitter).  Once most of the tape is covered, roll your candle gently in the glitter that has collected in the Powder Pal.  Use a clean dry paint brush to dust away excess glitter and pour back into your container.
   
   
4. Place your candle inside your wine tumbler and place inside a cellophane bag before tying with ribbon (I purchased my ribbon at a local big box craft store).

Again, it is that easy!  Your gift is ready to deliver in 5 minutes. 

If you are enjoying the ideas I've been sharing on my blog this month, and in my 12 weeks of Christmas newsletter series, be certain to sign up for my mailing list.  You don't want to miss out on a creative idea that resonates with you!

Happy Crafting,

Noel

Decorated Candles Series, Part 1: Votive Candles With Bling

Are you looking for fast and easy gift ideas?

This simple Big Shot Project is just what you need! 

If you want to be remembered each year by your friends and loved ones, give them a handmade holiday decoration ... they are certain to think of you each year as they put it up!  The toy soldier resting behind my candles was painted by my mom as a gift years ago. As I take out my holiday ornaments each year, it is the handcrafted items and the gifts from others that recieve the most attention. And with simple ideas like this votive it doesn't have to take a lot of time to create that special gift.

Directions:  Votive Candles With Bling Directions

1. Purchase glass votive candles, either prepoured as I've done here or the glass votive with drop in candles. 
   
   
2. Using your Big Shot and and the Snowflakes #2 Sizzlits Die Set, cut out snowflakes from aluminum foil tape from your hardware store (the brand on mine is Nashua Tape).
   
   TIP:  It is very difficult to keep bends and marks off of this shiny material.  Instead of fighting the character of the material, I embrace it and cut my snowflakes using my oldest most scarred cutting pads.  This creates a crackled finish to the snowflake that looks purposeful!
   
   
3. Remove the adhesive backing and apply your snowflake to your glass votive. 
   
   TIP:  This tape has pressure sensitive adhesive, so press well on your votive candle, or roll on a flat surface.
   
   
4. Decorate your votive with Basic Rhinestones for added bling.
   
   TIP:  While our rhinestones are self adhesive, I add the tiniest bit of Multipurpose Liquid Glue when applying the rhinestones to projects that will receive much handling for added longevity. 

That's it!  In minutes your candle is ready to be given as a handmade gift, or to decorate your home.  Group a few with different snowflakes for added variety!

There are so many ways to decorate candles and add a festive touch to your home during the holidays, and throughout the year.  Do you love candles?  Are you looking for more simple handmade gift ideas?  I'll be posting a few more ideas over the next week.

Happy Crafting,

Noel

A Perfect Gift for the Tea Lover on Your Holiday List

Here is another fun item I sold at my craft fair/holiday boutique last weekend - my very own Tea Flowers! 

I came up with this idea after a friend of mine shared an image of a package of tea holders she purchased at a museum gift shop.  The package contained 6 paper dolls which would dangle into your tea cup and keep your tea bag from falling in.  But, as usual, I wanted something that would be more durable ... and, in this case, reusable! 

I created my prototype (shown above) out of my magic green/recycled material ... yes, milk carton!  You can use the search button on my right side bar to see all of my posts using milk carton.  When I turned around to create these for sale I needed a more readily available product, as it takes a long time to save up enough milk carton in large enough flat pieces for this project.  But I found some large sheets of thick plastic in my craft room that were perfect for the task. 

Tea Flower Tutorial:

1. Cut the 2nd largest flower from the Flower Folds Bigz XL Die (Stampin' Up! Exclusive) out of milk carton or other sturdy plastic material using the Big Shot.

2. Run your flower through the Big Shot again using a Textured Impressions Embossing Folder of your choice.

3. Punch a hole through the middle of your flower (I used a Japanese Screw Punch I have in my stash of tools) and cut a slit from the middle of two petals to the punched circle with sturdy scissors.  I always use my Craft & Rubber Scissors when cutting through thick materials.  They cut through plastic, aluminum and many other difficult materials like butter.

It really is that easy!  Make certain that the recipient of your tea flowers knows that you can label your flowers with a water based marker when serving tea to a group.  Simply write the name of the individual or the type of tea that you are brewing right onto the tea flower.  It will wash off with dish soap and water when you are done.

If you like this idea, please 'like' this blog post on Facebook or another social media below! 

And, if you are in the Santa Barbara area, sign up for one of my quarterly Focus on the Big Shot classes.  I always include new ways to use your Big Shot dies to make the most out of these versatile tools.  My next class is already on my calendar for February!

Happy Crafting,

Noel

A Big Seller: Handmade Gifts For Little Girl - Chapstick Butterflies

These little chapstick butterflies were a big hit at my holiday boutique/craft fair last weekend!

 

I loved the design for this project from the first time I saw it done, but I always worried about the longevity of these paper/card stock butterflies cut with the Big Shot and the Beautiful Butterflies Bigz Die (exclusive to Stampin' Up!).  Every time I see this project done, I look to see how other crafters are solving this problem.  Mostly I've seen a layer of cardstock under the Designer Series Paper, but this wasn't the solution for me.  

My solution?  You'll never guess ...

Milk carton, again!  This really is a wonder material.  By adding a simple layer of milk carton to the butterfly, you give this project more stability and allow the back layer of your double sided Designer Series Paper to show through.  If you don't like the back side, simply add another layer of a paper you do like between the milk carton and top layer patterned paper.

Isn't this a great way to use up scrap paper and ribbon this holiday season? 

Butterflies are still popping up everywhere in design.  If you haven't already, purchase your Butterflies die here, and see what you can come up with!

Happy Crafting,

Noel

Stampin' Up! Goodies Delivered to You For Christmas?

 

If you are like me, your holiday wish list each year includes stamps, embellishments and crafting tools you've been dreaming of all year - but your hubby or friends don't know it! 

Do you want Christmas morning to be different this year?  

If you'd like your Stampin' Up! wish list items under the tree on Christmas morning download a copy of my wish list form here:

Download Individual Wish List for the Holidays 2011.docx (11.9K) 

and get it to your personal 'Santa' as soon as possible.  

Stampin' Up! recommends that orders be placed by

December 14th for timely Christmas delivery.  

All orders received by December 14, 2011, will be picked, packaged, and delivered to our courier in plenty of time to arrive by December 24, 2011.  But as you know, we cannot control delivery times; holiday mail volumes are high, and our delivery services encourage customers to ship as early as possible to avoid disappointment.

Online shopping (here or direct your Santa to my blog and the shop now button in the right hand side bar) is the fastest and most convenient way to shop, but if your personal Santa would like to work with me directly (or would like to order a Gift Certificate) - please pass on my contact information:

    email:  noel@stampingwithnoel.com 
    phone:  (805) 687-5263). 

I'm always happy to help!

Happy Holidays,

Noel

Want To Make Some Fun Holiday Packaging? Join My Mailing List!

The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes the need to package up your holiday gifts - both those handmade items you've created and your purchased items.  Your Big Shot Machine makes special packaging of smaller items even easier!

Take these little open topped gift boxes for instance:

 

These were created back in August at my Big Shot Class, using four envelopes cut with the Scallop Envelope Die and wrapped with a Designer Series Paper (see our collection here) wrap and a bit of ribbon embellishment.  You could easily recreate the box shown in a Christmas theme to deliver handmade cookies and holiday goodies in cellophane bags tied with ribbon.

The Envelope Open Top Box Tutorial:

1. Die cut four envelopes with the Scallop Envelope Die.  (to get the best performance from your die, remember to use the Premium Crease Pad!)
2. Remove one side flap from each envelope (just make certain that it is from the same side for all 4 envelopes) with your Paper Snips.
3. Using SNAIL adhesive on the remaining flaps, attach the four envelopes into a box (just a line of SNAIL on the outer side of the flap, then attach the flap to the inside of the next envelope where the flap was removed).
4. Again, using SNAIL or Sticky Strip, fold the bottom flaps up to create the bottom of the box. 
5. Using SNAIL adhesive, wrap the sides of the box with Designer Series Paper - you will need to use two pieces to wrap around all four sides as the box is slightly larger than 12 in.  Try to get exposed ends lined up at the corners.
6. Punch holes in your top flaps (both sides) and string ribbon (see our entire collection here) around the box tying in one corner.
7. Adhere your top flats with a little extra adhesive if they are popping up.

Taking a little bit of time to package your items with your Big Shot can make your gift stand out in a crowd.   For more fun packaging ideas, make certain you are on my newsletter mailing list - I'm in the middle of my 12 Days of Christmas email campaign and I am 'wrapping up' with a focus on packaging, bags and tags!   

Join My Mailing List Now!
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the 12 Weeks of Christmas Series

Members of my mailing list also receive a monthly newsletter packed with ideas, a fancy fold card tutorial and subscriber only offers!  Sign up now!

Happy Holiday Crafting,

Noel