Paper Crafting in Cocoa

Whimsy and OCS combined Blog Hop!

2012-01-27T03:00:00.000-05:00

Hello Stamping Friends! Today Whimsy Stamps is combining forces with One Crazy Stamper to bring you a Crazy Whimsical blog hop filled with lots of inspiration and some PRIZES!! Woohoo!

Whimsy Stamps is a family owned rubber stamp company located in the United States. We carry a large variety of exclusive rubber and digital stamps, custom rubber and digital designs, our Shapeology metal crafting dies, and many different crafting embellishments. We have new releases each month for both rubber stamps and dies as well as new digital images. Hop by the shop and see what's new!

One Crazy Stamper is a fantastic Canadian crafting store with an online site as well as a brick and mortar store located in Bolton, Ontario! One Crazy Stamper has the latest products you are looking for! Be sure to check out the One Crazy Stamper shop as well as the OCS blog for your daily inspiration.

Please join our hop featuring projects from the Whimsy and One Crazy Stamper Design Teams. Be sure to hop around from blog to blog and leave a comment at each stop, because some lucky random commenters are going to win some crafty goodies!!!

Here is my hop inspiration for you, featuring "Spring Zebra" a just released stamp from Whimsy Stamps and some yummy Fancy Pants 'Winterland' designer papers as well as wonderful embellies like rhinestones and flowers all available at One Crazy Stamper.

I colored the sweet Zebra and his friend using my Copics. The grass was made using different kinds of flower soft, the regular and the ultra fine in two different colors. As mentioned before my DP is from Fancy Pants Winterland collection which you can find HERE. The sentiment is from Whimsy's Sentiment Collection as well is the newly released noteables 3 die. The yummy flowers I've used to decorate you'll find here: roses (pink and lavender) and cherry blossoms & sweet flowers. The rhinestones used on my card are from Kaisercraft and also availabe at One Crazy Stamper. All other embellies are from my stash.

Here is the order of the hop! Thanks for stopping by and Happy Hopping!

1. One Crazy Stamper Blog- http://onecrazystampercom.blogspot.com
2. Jacilynn - www.jacilynndashwood.blogspot.com
3. Debbie Eastman - http://debbieeastmancardsimake.blogspot.com/
4. Michelle - www.inspirationblooms.blogspot.com
5. Alberto Gava - www.loshakeratoalberto.blogspot .com
6. Sue – http://craftcreations.ca
7. Heidy Blom - http://heidysscrappies.blogspot.com
8. Joni - http://joni52.blogspot.com
9. Simonne Clay http://semsee.blogspot.com
10. Madge – http://scrapaholicpaperjunkie.blogspot.com
11. Iris Wiechmann http://cocoacards.blogspot.com
12. Sharon – http://www.pickledmemories.blogspot.com
13. Beate Johns http://beate.blogs.splitcoaststamp
14. Lisa - http://mainlystamping.blogspot.com
15. Tammy Louise Cunliffe http://handmadebytlc.blogspot.com
16. Lora - www.onecrazystamperblog.com

Luv 'n hugs

You are 1 of a kind!

2012-01-25T20:00:00.000-05:00

Hello all! Have you heard? A Mini Issue of our Whimsy Inspirational Magazine was released today! With never seen before creations by the Whimsy Magazine Staff and 2011 Favorites picked by the Whimsy DT. If you haven't seen it yet click below or you can find the mini issue here: http://issuu.com/whimsystamps/docs/issue6-mini

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My card for today was also published in an earlier Whimsy magazine. I think it was back in September and I used the cute Kenny K image called "Teen Idol".

As always I used Copics to color and if I remember right the DP is from Basic Grey. I did not add too many embellishments as for male cards I like it a little bit simpler and cleaner. The sentiment is from Ann's Fun Life Tickets .

I also decorated the inside on this one.

Thanks for stopping by and don't forget to check out the new magazine!

Luv 'n hugs,

A Frosty Couple

2012-01-24T03:00:00.000-05:00

Hello Everyone and Happy Tuesday! The card I like to show you today was published in Whimsy's Inspirtional Magazine Issue 4. I used an older Whimsy image called Starry Night by Crissy Armstrong.

Coloring was done using Copics. The sentiment is from the Stocking Sentiment Set and cut out with the matching Shapeology Stocking Die. I used the Whimsy Snowflake die and Spellbinders dies to cut out the snowflakes. Papers are from Bo Bunny. Brads, pearls, rhinestones, ribbon and lace are from my stash. For the snow I used MS coarse snow glitter. The card bas was cut out using a Spellbinders labels die.

Here are a couple more photos:

Thanks for stopping by and come back tomorrow for some Whimsy Magazine news ;-)

Luv 'n hugs,

Whimsy Showcase Day 2 - Thanks for everything

2012-01-21T12:00:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone and welcome to Day 3 of our January Rubber Die Release Showcase!

On Wednesday (18 January) Whimsy Stamps released this month's rubber designs and new shapeology dies. From then until 25 January the Whimsy Stamps DT and Special Guests are showcasing these fabulous new stamps and dies with a daily mini blog hop. Each mini blog hop has a new release prize hidden somewhere along the way and you have 24hrs to enter each prize draw.

To be entered into today's mini blog hop prize draw, be sure to leave a comment on ALL of the DT's posts listed below by 12.00PM EST tomorrow. All winners will be announced on the Whimsy Inspirations blog after 12.00PM EST on 25 January.

And here is my showcase creation for today:

I used Bird Swing, one of the new Wee images. Oh aren't they cute? I colored this little birdie image with my Copics. DP is from Basic Grey's 'Picadilly' collection. The sentiment is one of the new 'Thank You Tabs' cut out with the new matching 'Tab' die. Both designed by Ann from Raindrop Echo Designs. I also used the vine dies set. Flowers are Whimsy Buds and from my stash.

Here are a couple more shots:

To take a peek at today's fabulous new release creations, please click on the links below...

Ann

Beate
Deb
Dena
Erin
Iris <<< you are here
Jacque
Tammy Louise

Remember that the entire new release is available to buy right now from the Whimsy Stamps store along with all your Whimsy favourites.Thanks for stopping by and don't forget to check the Whimsy Inspirations blog tomorrow for more new release creations!

Thanks for visiting today!

Luv 'n hugs,

Iris

Whimsy Stamps January Rubber & Die Release

2012-01-18T12:00:00.000-05:00

Welcome to Whimsy Stamps January rubber stamp and die
RELEASE DAY!

Whimsy Stamps is releasing 16 fantastic new rubber stamps and 2 wonderful new Shapeology dies. These new goodies are available to buy right now from the Whimsy Stamps store along with all your Whimsy favourites. From today until 25 January the Whimsy DT and Special Guests will be showcasing these fabulous new stamps and dies with a daily mini blog hop. Each mini blog hop has a new release prize hidden somewhere along the way and you will have 24hrs to enter each prize draw by leaving a comment on every blog listed for that day.To be entered into today's mini blog hop prize draw, be sure to leave a comment on ALL of the DT's posts listed below by 12:00PM EST tomorrow. All winners will be announced on the Whimsy Inspirations blog after 12:00PM on 25 January.To take a peek at today's fabulous new release creations by the Design Team, please click on the links below...

Debbie Eastman Ellie Stover Erin Bailey Mariska van der Veer {Special Guest}Niki Estes Stephanne Maraver Tammy Louise Cunliffe

Here is a full list of the wonderful new goodies released today:

3 Crissy Armstrong rubber stampsEverything's Just Ducky ~ Heart Hugs ~ Spring Zebra

4 Kenny K rubber stampsBodacious Bev ~ Cool Kid ~ Mad Skillz ~ Val Ventura

3 Meljen's Designs rubber stampsSnow Bunny ~ Yeti Cocoa ~ Cozy Winter Raccoon

3 Wee Stamps rubber stampsBird Swing ~ Heidi ~ Wee Bunny

3 Raindrop Echo Designs rubber stamp setsSympathy Notables 3 (coordinating die available below)~ Thank You Tabs (coordinating die available below) ~ Celebrations Mini Tickets (coordinates with already released Mini Ticket die)

2 Raindrop Echo Designs Shapeology diesNotables 3 (coordinating stamp set available above) ~ Tabs (coordinating stamp set available above)

Don't forget to visit today's DT and leave a comment on their blog posts to be entered into the draw to win a new release stamp, then pop back to the Whimsy Inspirations blog tomorrow for the next list of showcase posts!

Thanks for stopping by and I hope you enjoy our new release!

Goooooooal!!!

2012-01-17T03:00:00.000-05:00

Hello Friends and Happy Tuesday! This card was a special request. It's for a soccer fanatic and I had to use the team colors - black & yellow. Ahhh that was quite a challenge as this is not my fav color combo and soccer is so not my sport...LOL. But I'm quite pleased with the result :-) I hope my friend who ordered the card and the recipient will like it as well!

The little soccer player is from The Greeting Farm, colored with Copics and the sentiment is from Whimsy's Birthday Letter seals.The charm was made using a sticker and lots of UTEE. All other embellies are from my stash.

I decorated the inside to match the outside.

Thanks for visiting my blog and have a wonderful day!

Luv 'n hugs

Brrrrrrr - it's cold outside

2012-01-16T03:00:00.000-05:00

Hello stamping friends! Today a new challenge is starting over at our BnW Challenge Blog! Challenge theme this fortnight is : FROSTY! Anything snow, ice, cold, Winter themed! Here is my icy inspiration:

I used Snow Fight Snowbaby from the Snowbaby collection. I colored it using Copics. Papers are from an older Bo Bunny collection I found in my scrap box. Sentiment is from Whimsy. All embellishmetns are from my stash. The beautiful lace I got from my dear friend Claudia.

Come and join us for this wintery challenge!

Thanks for stopping by and have a great start into the new week!

Luv 'n hugs

To My True Love

2012-01-10T12:00:00.000-05:00

Hello Everyone! I'm back from my Christmas break and I have to admit I so enjoyed staying away from everything for a while :-) But now I'm itching to go back to my crafting table and start creating again and my schedule for the first month of the new year is full already. Love is in the air.... Valentine is just a round the corner! Have you started making some Valentines creations yet?

Here is a book card I made with the new Wee image 'Spring Bringer'. It was published in the newest Whimsy Inspirational Magazine along with a Book-Card Tutorial just - click here - to go there now.

I colored her using my Copics - BTW have you heared, Copic releases some new colors soon can't wait to get my hands on them ;-) - Such a cute and versatile image. Perfect for birthdays, Valentine's, anniversaries etc. I also used Ann's 'Love Letter Seals' and 'Everyday Circle Postmarks' as well as the Country Heart and the Elegant Butterflies Die Set from Whimsy's Shapeology collection. Paper is from Basic Grey. Other punches and dies are from Magnolia and MS.

Here is how the inside looks:

The inside filled with some tea bags:

Thanks for stopping by my blog today and have a wonderful day!

Luv 'n hugs,

Merry Christmas / Frohe Weihnachten

2011-12-24T00:00:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas / Frohe Weihnachten to all of you! I will take a little break from blogging and crafting until after New Years. I need to re-charge my creative juices ;-) I hope all of you have wonderful holidays together with your families and friends.

Here is the last Christmas card I made this year. It's more on the simpler side. This super cute Tilda image was a gift from my dear friend Claudia! Thank you so much sweetie :-) So fun to make a card with a Magnolia image again...haven't had time to use my Maggies for quite some time. Need to change that in the new year....

Thank you all for always visiting my blog through out the year and leaving me such nice comments! <3

Merry Christmas and a happy & healthy New Year

to all of you!

Luv 'n hugs,

Whimsy Showcase Day

2011-12-21T12:00:00.000-05:00

Hello and Welcome to the last day of our December Rubber & Die Release Showcase!

On Wednesday, 14 December, Whimsy Stamps released this month’s rubber designs and new Shapeology dies. The mini hops are over now and the winners are relvealed on the Whimsy Inspirations blog!!

But before I go on to my creation for today I like to let you know that our Whimsy Inspirational Magazine Issue 5 has been released today and can be viewed HERE. It is as always free of charge and stuffed with the most gorgeous creations, tips and tutorials. So get a cup of coffee/tea, sit back and ENJOY! :-)

And here is my showcase creation for today:

This stamp is called Giraffe's in Love by Crissy Armstrong available right now in the Whimsy Store. I colored using Copics and added some Stickles Platinum and Star Dust for some sparkle. Somehow I just can't live without it ;-). The ticket sentiment is from the new Love Mini Tickets by Raindrop Echo Designs. The punch I've used is from MS. The white sweet flowers are also available in the store HERE. All other embellies are from my stash.
Oh and the great sketch was designed by my DT sister Lynda from BnW. She designed it for an Elphine House Challenge some time ago. I love this sketch and just had to use it!

The prize draws have ended but we still have one final day of showcases for you, so please visit my fellow DT teamies blogs to take a peek at their final new release projects:

Ellie Stover
Erin Bailey
Jacque Beddingfield {Special Guest}
Sylvia Blum

Zoe McGrath

Remember that the entire new release is available to buy right now from the Whimsy Stamps store along with all your Whimsy favorites!

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Luv 'n Hugs,

Whimsy's December Rubber & Die Release Showcase

2011-12-20T12:00:00.000-05:00

Hello and Welcome to Day 6 of our December Rubber & Die Release Showcase!

On Wednesday, 14 December, Whimsy Stamps released this month’s rubber designs and new Shapeology dies. From then until 21 December the Whimsy Stamps DT and Special Guests are showcasing these fabulous new stamps and dies with a daily mini blog hop.

Each mini blog hop has a new release prize hidden somewhere along the way and you have 24hrs to enter each prize draw. To be entered into today’s mini blog hop prize draw, be sure to leave a comment on ALL of the DT’s posts listed below by 12.00PM EST tomorrow. All winners will be announced on the Whimsy Inspirations blog blog after 12.00PM EST on 21 December.

For my creation I used Miss Thang from the Whimsy Kenny K Collection. She is colored with Copics. When I first saw her I knew that I just had to color her hair reddish pink. It was somehow screaming to me...LOL. The gorgeous papers are from Bo Bunny's 'Crush'
collection. The two die cut hearts are also from the new release, you can find the die in the shapeology section of the store, it's called Country Heart Die.

The circle postmark sentiment is from the new Everyday Circle Postmarks. Flowers are from my stash as well as the rhinestones. I used Star Dust Stickles to give some bling to her cloth and a few of the flowers. A Spica Glitter Pen (clear) was used on her lips and part of her Hair.

To see all of today’s fabulous new release creations, please click on the links below:

DebbieEastman

Deb Routledge {SpecialGuest}

Erin Bailey

Tammy Louise Cunliffe

BevRochester

Pop'sMorfitt

Iris Wiechmann - you are here

Zoe McGrath

Heidy Blom

Remember that the entire new release is available to buy right now from the Whimsy Stamps store along with all your Whimsy favorites!

Thanks so much for stopping by and taking part in our mini hop! And make sure to come back tomorrow where I will show you another new reease creation!

Luv 'n Hugs

Christmas Time

2011-12-16T03:00:00.000-05:00

Hello all and Happy TGIF! Wow only one more week to go! I can't believe Christmas is just around the corner and time is flying with lightning speed! Are you all ready for Christmas? I promised my self I would slow down starting Monday next week and plan on being on vacation for two weeks starting on Christmas eve. Well we are not going anywhere but I really like to relax and take a break. Looking forward to reading my new books - Suzanne Collins 'The Hunger Games Trilogy' - really captivating and I'm already almost thru book 1-, walking the doggies, riding the bikes, watching movies etc. Enjoying the holidays and just relax! What are your plans?

Ok here comes one of my last Christmas cards:

This cute stamp is called 'Andrew's Christmas Stocking' from the new 2011 Christmas Collection! This cutie stamp is available in the store right now, but you have to hurry there are only 10 left!! DP is from Bo Bunny and sentiment is from Cats Life Press. I used Copics to color the image.

I wish you all a wonderful 4th Advent weekend and don't forget to visit out Belles 'n Whistles Inspirational blog for daily Advent Calendar giveaways! I'm also sharing a yumy cookie recipe over there today! Click HERE to go there.

Luv 'n hugs

Whimsy Stamps December Rubber Release

2011-12-14T20:13:00.001-05:00

Welcome to Whimsy Stamps December rubber stamp and die RELEASE DAY!

Whimsy Stamps is releasing 20 gorgeous new rubber stamps, 3 fabulous new Shapeology dies and 6 new Shape EZ templates and cut files today. These new goodies are available to buy right now from the Whimsy Stamps store along with all your Whimsy favourites. From today until 21 December the Whimsy DT and Special Guests will be showcasing these fabulous new stamps, dies and Shape EZs with a daily mini blog hop. Each mini blog hop has a new release prize hidden somewhere along the way and you will have 24hrs to enter each prize draw by leaving a comment on every blog listed for that day.To be entered into today's mini blog hop prize draw, be sure to leave a comment on ALL of the DT's posts listed below by 12:00PM EST tomorrow. All winners will be announced on the Whimsy Inspirations blog after 12:00PM on 21 December.To take a peek at today's fabulous new release creations by the Design Team, please click on the links below...

Deb Routledge {Special Guest}Ellie Stover Erin Bailey Jacque Beddingfield {Special Guest}Tammy Louise Cunliffe

Here is a full list of the wonderful new goodies released today:

5 Crissy Armstrong rubber stampsGiraffes in Love ~ Lend me your Ear ~ Valentine Fairy ~ Love Birds ~ Jumbo in Love

4 Kenny K rubber stampsAtlantea ~ Groove Dude ~ Miss Fortune ~ Miss Thang

3 Meljen's Designs rubber stampsLovey Pup ~ Lovin' Turtle ~ Loving Ewe

4 Wee Stamps rubber stampsFluffy on the Lily ~ Rose and Felix ~ Sam's Special Delivery ~ Spring Bringer

4 Raindrop Echo Designs rubber stamp sets

Everyday Circle Postmarks ~ Friendship Notables 2 (coordinating die available below) ~ Love Mini Tickets (coordinating die available below) ~ Stylized Notables 1 (coordinates with already released Notables 1 die)

3 Raindrop Echo Designs Shapeology diesMini Ticket (coordinating stamp set available above) ~ Notables 2 (coordinating stamp set available above) ~ Country Heart

6 Shape EZ downloadable templatesFlip Tree ~ Magnolia Flower ~ Mini Rosettes ~ Pedestal Tag 1 ~ Sparkle Holiday Pin ~ Take Out Box

BnW Advent Calendar - Door 8

2011-12-08T03:00:00.000-05:00

Greetings Everyone! Today is the 8th door opening over at our BnW Advent Calendar and it's my turn to host todays Advent Calendar door. I altered a cute little note book and used the recently released cutie pie 'Jam Jars'. It could be used as journal, diary, for notes, for recipes etc.

Isn't she just so sweet with the jar in her hands and the basket full of strawberries? I colored her using my Copics. DP is from Basic Grey's Indie Bloom collection. I found the little note book in the $1 bin at Michaels. I always find something useful in these bins and never leave the store with out browsing through them ;-)

Thanks for taking the time and visiting me today!

Hugs,

Iris

Sparkle! - New BnW Challenge!

2011-12-05T15:49:00.001-05:00

Hello everyone! Today is the start of a new fortnightly BnW Challenge. Kathrin is our host this time and she decided that she says: "Let your creations 'SPARKLE' ". So don't be shy and use your glitter, bling and all that sparkles ;-) Here is my challenge creations:

I used 'Brooke's Frist Chrtistnas and colored her with Copics. DP is from Crate Paper, Sentiment from Whimsy and the poinsettia is cut out using a Bosskut die. I added lots of Sparkle to my card using Stickles, rhinestones and glittered embellies. The star border punch is from MS as is the ribbon.

Thanks for taking a look at my blog today and sorry for the super short posting. It's just a busy busy time at right now!

Luv 'n hugs

Decorated Advent Calendar and a BnW Sale!

2011-12-01T17:36:00.001-05:00

Hello everyone! As promised I'm back with my second posting for today! For info on the Belles 'n Whistles 'Progressive December Sale' please scroll further down!

Because today is the 1st of December and the first day to open a door on the Advent Calendars I'd like to show you the decorated Advent Calendar I made. It was published in Whimsy's Inspirational Magazine , Issue 4 and has a new home now in Germany! Thank you Dagmar! :-)

I used the cute 'I'd follow you anywhere' stamp from Whimsy's Crissy Armstrong collection. This stamp was already released last year and is available HERE. I colroed the image using my Copics and then cut it out. The trees in the back are cut with a die from Marianne design and the snowflake border is a die from Memory Box called Frostyville. DP is from Basic Grey's collection Eskimo Kisses (2010). I distrssed the paper with white acrylic paint. On top of the Advent Calendar I used Aleene's True Snow and German Glass Glitter to create a snow effect.

Here are some more photos to see the details and different angles:

The sides I decorated using a Memory Box Holly Vine die, Whimsy's Shapeology Snowflake die and a Poinsettia die from Marianne Design.

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SALE * SALE * SALE * SALE

Belles 'n Whistles December Progressive Sale!

Shop through the month of December and save!

December 1st - 7th, 15% off**!

Check-out with code: DECEMBER15

Each Thursday in December, the savings will increase!

Availability is limited. Once an item is out-of-stock, it's gone till next year!

Progressive Sale will end December 31!

**Savings this first week EXCLUDE the following:

Christmas 2011 stamps, digital products & Gift Certificates.

Please click HERE to go to the BnW store!

Thanks for visiting me today and have a fabulous weekend and a peaceful 2. Advent Sunday.

luv 'n hugs

Belles 'n Whistles Advent Calendar!

2011-12-01T09:37:00.001-05:00

Like every year the Belles 'n Whistles Advent Calendar is opening it's first door today! Come and join us and don't miss out on all the fun, creativity and of course the chance of winning a prize every day!

I'll be back later today to show you an Advent Calendar I made ....

hugs & luv

BnW Challenge & Incredible Holiday Sale

2011-11-22T21:00:00.001-05:00

Hello Stamping Friends! On Monday started a new Belles 'n Whistles Challenge and I'm a little late with my card. I was not feeling well due to a stomach flu and then I jammed my finger pretty badly *ouwee*... but as you know bad weeds grow tall ;-) and I'm feeling better already and I was able to finish it today.

But before I show you the card I would like to share some awesome Belles 'n Whistles news with you! Belles 'n Whistles is having an incredible sale!!!

Now through November 27,
enjoy 35% savings on most* Belles 'n Whistles stamps,
while supplies last! Once they're gone, they're gone 'till next year!

Enter code WINTER35 upon checkout.

*Digital products and stamps in "Christmas 2011 & More" category are
excluded from Holiday sale.

Make sure you checkout the Belles 'n Whistles store soon. The stamps will fly off of the shelves with this amazing sales offer!

And now here is my challenge creation:

The theme this time is "Christmas" and I used one of the new 2011 Christmas stamps called 'Little Light' for my creation. The sentiment is from the Digital Word Art set 'Christmas Musical' by my fabulous DT sister Lynda and also available at the Belles 'n Whistles store!

I used Copics to color the image and the DP is from Memory Box' Mistletoe collection. Flowers, ribbon and lace are from my stash and the charm is from Whimsy.

Please come and join in our challenge. Remember you can use any stamp designed by Elisabeth Bell to qualify for our challenges. Check out the Belles 'n Whistles Challenge blog for all the details on the current challenge and how to enter!

I also enter this card into the ongoing Wild Orchid Crafts Challenge 'A Child's Christmas'. I think this image is just perfect for it and my flowers are available at WOC.

Luv 'n hugs

Whimsy Stamps November Rubber Stamp & Die Release!

2011-11-16T14:25:00.001-05:00

Welcome to Whimsy Stamps November Rubber Stamp
& Die Release Day!

Whimsy Stamps has released 20 fabulous new rubber stamps and 4 wonderful new Shapeology die sets today. These new goodies are available to buy right now from the Whimsy Stamps store along with all your Whimsy favourites. From today until 23 November the Whimsy DT and Special Guests will be showcasing these fabulous new stamps and dies with a daily mini blog hop. Each mini blog hop has a new release prize hidden somewhere along the way and you will have 24hrs to enter each prize draw by leaving a comment on every blog listed for that day.To be entered into today's mini blog hop prize draw, be sure to leave a comment on ALL of the DT's posts listed below by 12.00PM EST tomorrow. All winners will be announced on the Whimsy Inspirations blog after 12.00PM on 23 November.To take a peek at today's fabulous new release creations by the Design Team, please click on the links below...

Beate Johns {Special Guest}
Crissy Armstrong
Debbie Eastman
Deb Routledge {Special Guest}
Ellie Stover
Erin Bailey
Mariska van der Veer {Special Guest}
Stephanne Maraver
Tammy Louise Cunliffe

Here is a full list of the wonderful new rubber stamps and dies released today:

5 Crissy Armstrong rubber stamps
Cool Pony ~ Penguin Skier ~ Sealed With A Kiss ~ Served With Love ~ Snow Fun

4 Kenny K rubber stamps
Brianna Blaster ~ Sexy Elf ~ Superhero ~ Toy Soldier

3 Meljen's Designs rubber stamps
Bundled Little Snowboy ~ Cozy Little Chickadees ~ Cozy Winter Owl

5 Wee Stamps rubber stamps
A Letter For Me ~ Christmas Bunny ~ Let It Snow ~ Suzi With Bunny ~ Wee Florist

3 Raindrop Echo Designs rubber stamp sets
Cozy Hands sentiments (co-ordinating die set available) ~ Sleigh Ride ~ Winter Notables (co-ordinating dies available)

4 Raindrop Echo Designs Shapeology diesLayered Snowflakes ~ Mittens (co-ordinating stamp set available) ~ Notables 1 (co-ordinating stamp set available) ~ Elegant Notables 1 (co-ordinating stamp set available)

Don't forget to visit today's DT and leave a comment on their blog posts to be entered into the draw to win a new release stamp, then pop by the Whimsy Inspirations blog tomorrow for the next list of showcase posts!

Thanks for stopping by and I hope you enjoy our new release!

Holly Jolly Christmas

2011-11-15T14:46:00.001-05:00

Hello everyone and welcome to my blog today! Guess what?? Whimsy Stamps is having a huge Winter release tomorrow! :-) Are you all ready for it? There will be 20 new stamps and 4 new dies released tomorrow! Woohoo, this is going to be spectacular! Make sure to stop by tomorrow at noon for more information on the release and how you can win some of the new stamps!

Today I like to show you a card with an adorable digital stamp from Saturated Canary called A Winter Ragamuffin. This is the first one of Krista's digis I've colored but I have a few more to come ;-) I just love her style! These girls are so much fun to color and create with!

I colored her with Copics and printed the digi out on 'Make it Colour' card. DP is from Memory Box' 'Tinsel' collection. Sentiment is from SU and all the other embellies from my stash.

This card is one of the orders I've been working on and has been sold! Thanks so much!

See you tomorrow for the new Whimsy Stamps release!

Luv'n hugs,

Happy Holidays with Angel's Grace

2011-11-11T03:00:00.000-05:00

Hello all and welcome to my blog today! Today I like to show you a card I made with one of the newly released Belles 'n Whistles 2011 Christmas stamps, called Angels Grace. Oh isn't she such a beauty and so charming? This is also my belated DT challenge creation for this fortnights BnW Challenge where the theme is 'Anything Goes' hosted by my lovely DT sister Audhild!

I colored her using my Copics. She was stamped onto "Make it Colour" cardstock with Memento Tuxedo Black ink. This cardstock from 'Make it Crafty' is such a dream coloring on! The colors blend very well and smooth, no bleeding and the colors are coming out very bright and glowing. This is one of my favorite papers to use for coloring next to Arjo Wiggins Cryogen White, X-press it card and Neenah Solar White. DP is from my scrap box and unfortunately I don't know the make anymore. The sentiment is from Cats Life Press.

I hope I could inspire you a little with my Christmas card and
wish you a wonderful Friday and start into the weekend!

Luv 'n hugs

Peace on Earth

2011-11-10T09:28:00.001-05:00

Hello Friends! Here's one of the cards that was published in the latest Whimsy Inspirational Magazine - Issue 4. It's a wintery / christmassy card with one of the cute Wee stamps by Sylvia Zet called Winter Fairy. These stamps are exclusively available in rubber at Whimsy Stamps!

Ahhh I'm so in love with these cute stamps. I colored her with Copis - of course! It seems lately I'm not getting around to my other coloring mediums *sigh* I have to change that! Because I also really enjoy coloring with Distress Inks as well as with pencils! The DP is from Memory Box 'Yuletide' collection. Embellies used: Flowers, charm and large snowflake die are from Whimsy. Small snowflake punch is MS, vine dies are from Cheery Lynne Designs.

I'm off now to my crafting table. I have some commissioned cards to finish and I'm also working on my magazine creations for the next Whimsy Inspirational Magazine! :-) Thanks for stopping by and have a wonderful day!

Luv 'n hugs

x Iris x

New Belles 'n Whistles 2011 Christmas Stamps & More!

2011-11-08T03:00:00.000-05:00

Hello Everyone! My card today shows one of the new Belles 'n Whistles Christmas stamps! Isn't he just the cutest blowing his trumpet? The stamp is called 'Angels Song' and the artist no other than the talented Elisabeth Bell. I colored him with my Copics. The snowflake in the back is a Christmas Tree decoration I found at a dollar store. DP is from Papermania and the cherry blossom and white flowers are from Whimsy as well as the sentiment. All other embellies are from my stash. To give the paper a more frosted look I used Aleene's True Snow on the edges and added super fine glitter to it.

Make sure to check out all the new super adorable stamps from the Belles 'n Whistles 2011 Christmas Release & More! You sure don't want to miss this! And make sure to visit all the DT members blog from now through Christmas frequently as we are showcasing all the new stamps through the Holiday season. Also all other Christmas stamps are back in stock!! Mark your calendars: The Belles 'n Whistles Advent Calendar starts again on December 1st on our Inspirational Blog!!! Lots of Inspiration, Holiday Spirit and of course Giveaways are waiting for you! Presented by the Belles 'n Whistles DT!!!

Thanks for stopping by today!

Luv 'n hugs

Whimsy presents Shape EZ by TLC

2011-10-31T12:00:00.000-04:00

Hello Whimsy Fans!We are extremely excited to announce the arrival of Whimsy Stamps newest product line! Today Whimsy Stamps are launching their brand new line of templates and cut files called SHAPE EZ by TLC.Whimsy’s very own Tammy Louise Cunliffe is the super-talented artist behind this new line, and she has designed some brilliant templates and cut files for making one-of-a-kind cards, projects, gifts, and more! These are downloadable templates and each file includes a JPG, PNG, PDF, and SVG version of the template along with how-to instructions. Each product is hand crafted and tested by artist Tammy Louise Cunliffe.Whimsy Stamps is releasing 6 fabulous Shape EZs today:

Shape EZ DressShape EZ Flip Ornament
Shape EZ Flower SwirlShape EZ Gift Pouch
Shape EZ PoinsettiaShape EZ Rolled Bag

Some of the Whimsy DT have been busy creating with these templates to celebrate this debut release with a BLOG HOP! The hop starts today (Monday October 31st noon EST) and ends on Sunday November 6th at noon EST.For this hop we have several different prize draws. One lucky hopper will win a grand prize of a $25 gift certificate (hosted at Tammy Louise's blog). In addition to this, we have hidden several surprise prizes throughout the hop, so be sure to leave a comment on every post along the hop to be entered into the surprise draws. All winners will be announced on the Whimsy Stamps blog after the blog hop has ended.If you would like to hop along with us today, please CLICK HERE to start the hop at Debbie's blog.

And here is what I came up with for the blog hop:

I used the Shape Easy Gift Pouch and cut it out using my electronic cutter. This was super easy! And after scoring and folding I was already ready to glue it together. Really easy peasy and super quick. These are ideal for Christmas mass-production!! I decided not to have a window in it because I wanted to attach a design to the flap instead.The little penguin is part of a stamp from last year's Winter collection called I'd follow you anywhere designed by Crissy Armstrong. I colored the little guy using Copics. The border on the bottom is a Memory Box die called Frostyville Border. I cut it out using white glitter paper for a nice frosty look. DP is from Recollections Sugar Plums collection. I dipped my rose in glass glitter to give it a frosty effect as well. The poinsettia petals underneath are die cut with a Marianne Design die and the clear crystal stem is from Whimsy's Embellishments.

Here's a close-up on the little cute penguin and you can also see my frosted rose a little better.

I used snowflake shaped eyelets to cover the holes for the ribbon. To help keep the flap shut even when it's filled I used a little piece of velcro. For a finishing touch I added some rhinestones to the snowy border.

Finally, here is a complete blog hop list in hopping order in case you get lost:

Debbie Eastman
Ann Vento
Ellie Stover
Iris Wiechmann
Stephanne Maraver
Sylvia Blum
Tammy Louise Cunliffe

Thank you so much for hopping with us and I hope you enjoy our new release!

Luv 'n hugs,

Floppy the Elf

2011-10-26T17:18:00.001-04:00

Happy Wednesday Everyone! I'm back with a new card. Last night I had time to color in one of the super cute elves from Make it Crafty! His name is Floppy and I think he is just stinkin' cute!

It is so much fun coloring him and as usual I used my Copics. (colors used listed below). There was a time when I really disliked coloring with reds with my Copics but meanwhile I absolutely enjoy it and I like how it turned out. The DP is from Prima's North Country Collection. Sentiment is designed by Raindrop Echo Designs and available through Whimsy Stamps. I just used a little bit of Stickles on the flowers and some paper glaze on the bell from Floppy's hat. Leaf punch is from EK Success and the poinsettia is punched out using dies from Marianne Design.

This card is a pre-order. Actually so far all my Christmas cards shown were pre-ordered. I have a few more to do and planning on using at least 2 more of the cute MiC elves for the orders :-)

Thanks for stopping by and visiting me today!

And here are the colors I used to color Floppy:

Gold: Y00, Y11, Y15, YR24
Red: R39, R27, R14, R12
Green: YG67, YG25, YG23, YG21, YG0000
Hair: E19, E18, E15, E07, E13
Black: C 9 -7-5-3-1-00
To tone down the reds and greens and deepen the shadows I used the warm greys
W 7 -5-3-1-00
Outline: B000, B0000

And for the ground I used the warm greys again.

Pins and Pearls - New BnW Challenge

2011-10-24T03:00:00.000-04:00

Hello all! I hope you all had a wonderful weekend. Are you ready for our new Belles 'n Whistles challenge? Ok then, here we go:

Pins & Pearls

... is the theme this time! I am the host and I want to see pins (hat pins, trinket pins, corsage pins etc.) and pearls on your creation. That shouldn't be too difficult, right? ;-)

And here is the card I made for the challenge:

I used one of last years Snowbabies called 'Peek-a-Boo' and colored her with Copics. The yummy DP is from Basic Grey's Nordic Holiday collection. I think it's so pretty, that's why I only used one layer DP to show it off. The trinket pin is handmade by me, I love making my own trinket pins! Sentiment is from Magnolia. I used Spellbinders to cut out my image and sentiment. Flowers are from my stash as is the ribbon. Pearls are from Kaiser Craft, Recollections and Making Memories. Snowflake punch is EK Success and leave punch is from Punch Bunch. Oh yes and there is a snowflake hiding behind the Sentiment that is a die from Marianne Design. I also added some Stardust, Crystal and Christmas red Stickles on the image and snowflakes.

Thanks for visiting me today and I hope to see you over at our Belles 'n Whistles challenge blog!

Luv 'n hugs,

Hello friend!

2011-10-22T08:00:00.000-04:00

Hello and Happy Saturday my friends! Well actually I wanted to post this card Thursday already.... but things didn't go as expected this week so I'm late. This is one of my creations that was published in Whimsy's Inspirational Magazine Issue 2.

The cute turtle image is illustrated by Crissy Armstrong and the stamp available at Whimsy and called 'Hang in there'. The sentiment die is from the bottle cap sentiments by Raindrop Echo Designs and cut out with the bottle cap die. I colored using my Copics and Prisma pencils. DP is from Bo Bunny, Crate Paper and My Minds Eye. Dies and punches used are from MS, Whimsy (elegant flourishes die), EK Success and Cheery Lynn.

Ok I keep it pretty short today lots of crafty errands on my list today ;-) I wish you all a fab weekend and thanks for taking the time and visiting me today!

Luv 'n hugs

Whimsy Mini Blog Hop Winner Showcase Day 3

2011-10-19T18:37:00.000-04:00

Hello Everyone! Over the past week the Whimsy Stamps DT and Special Guests have been showcasing these awesome new goodies, and each day we held a 24hr mini blog hop where you could enter to win a prize!

It was my turn to draw the winner from Saturday's hop from the comments left on my blog. And the winner is:

Anne H. from
http://anneslillehobbykrok.blogspot.com

Congratulations! Please email Denise with your full contact details so that your prize can be mailed out to you as soon as possible. Thank you! For the winners on the other showcase days please visit the Whimsy Inspirational Blog.

We are delighted to announce that Whimsy Inspirations Magazine - Issue 4 has been released today! It features never-before-seen creations from our wonderful Magazine Staff as well as many stunning creations by the Whimsy DT, Special Guests and Friends of Whimsy. So grab a cup of your favourite beverage, CLICK HERE to open the *free* online magazine and be prepared to be blown away!

We also have a new FB fan page for the magazine,
come and join us!
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Whimsy-Stamps-Inspirations-Magazine/189443077798924

Thanks for visiting me today! I'll be back tomorrow with a new creation.

Luv 'n hugs,

Whimsy Showcase Day 3 - Tis the season

2011-10-15T12:00:00.000-04:00

Hello and welcome to Day 3 of our October Rubber Die Release Showcase! On Wednesday (12 October), Whimsy Stamps released this month's rubber designs and new shapeology dies. From then until 19 October the Whimsy Stamps DT and Special Guests are showcasing these fabulous new stamps and dies with a daily mini blog hop.Each mini blog hop has a new release prize hidden somewhere along the way and you have 24hrs to enter each prize draw.To be entered into today's mini blog hop prize draw, be sure to leave a comment on ALL of the DT's posts listed below by 12.00 PM EST tomorrow. All winners will be announced on the Whimsy Inspirations blog after 12.00 PM EST on 19 October.To take a peek at today's fabulous new release creations by the Design Team, please click on the links below...

Ann Vento Alberto Gava {Special Guest}Annika Ryan Debbie Eastman Ellie Stover Erin Bailey Iris Wiechmann Mariska van der Veer {Special Guest}Minna Paajanen Simonne Clay Stephanne Maraver Sylvia Blum Tammy Louise Cunliffe

Ok and here is my showcase creation for today:

Mrs. Claus was colored with Copics and the DP I've used is from MME's Lost & Found Christmas collection. I also used the new Seasonal Ornaments sentiment set and coordinating Ornamets Dies designed by our talented Ann from Raindrop Echo Designs.

Remember that the entire new release is available to buy right now from the Whimsy Stamps store along with all your Whimsy favourites.Thanks for stopping by and don't forget to check the Whimsy Inspirations blog tomorrow for more new release creations!

Luv 'n hugs,

It's Christmas Time.....

2011-10-13T14:37:00.001-04:00

Happy Thursday Friends! The card I made yesterday shows one of the new Make It Crafty Christmas digi's called 'Sweet Angel'. Awww isn't she sooooo super adorable?! One of the sweetest angels I've seen!

She was colored with Copics (BG 0000, 000, 01, 02 for the dress and bow, YR31, E50, Y28 Y11 for her hair) The DP I've used is from an older MME Christmas collection. I found one leftover 12x12 sheet in my drawer. The blue snowflake/ice crystals paper is from Primas North Country collection. You can barely see it it's almost completely covered by my embellies though. The large snowflake in the back is a Spellbinders die (I think it's called Snowflake Pendant, but I'm not sure) which I cut from light blue CS and sprinkled some German glass glitter on to give it a frosted effect. The sentiment is from Catslife Press. Crystal stem and ribbon slider are from Whimy's embellishments section. Flowers ribbon and the rest of the embellies are from my stash.

Close look at the cute Angel :-)

Here's a close-up of the 'sugar coated' flowers. First I dipped the flowers in Aleene's thick tacky designer glue and then I sprinkled them with clear German glass glitter. I love the frosted icy look the German glass glitter gives to the flowers.

Thanks for visiting me today and come back Saturday when I'll be showcasing one of the New Whimsy October Rubber Stamps. The Whimsy DT is showcasing the new stamps everyday now through October 19th with a daily Mini Blog Hop. Check the Whimsy Inspirational Blog daily for a list of participating designers. Each mini blog hop has a new release prize hidden somewhere along the way and you have 24hrs to enter each prize draw. Make sure to leave a comment on all participating blogs!

Luv 'n hugs,

2011-10-12T12:00:00.000-04:00

Welcome to Whimsy Stamps October rubber stamp and die RELEASE DAY!

Whimsy Stamps has released 15 fabulous new rubber stamps and 2 wonderful new Shapeology die sets today. These new goodies are available to buy right now from the Whimsy Stamps store along with all your Whimsy favourites. From today until 19 October, the Whimsy DT and Special Guests will be showcasing these fabulous new stamps and dies with a daily mini blog hop. Each mini blog hop has a new release prize hidden somewhere along the way and you will have 24hrs to enter each prize draw by ensuring you leave a comment on every blog listed for that day.To be entered into today's mini blog hop prize draw, be sure to leave a comment on ALL of the DT's posts listed below by 12.00PM EST tomorrow morning. All winners will be announced on the Whimsy Inspirations blog after 12.00PM on 19 October.To take a peek at today's fabulous new release creations by the Design Team, please click on the links below...

Annika Ryan Debbie Eastman Stephanne Maraver Tammy Louise Cunliffe

Here is a full list of the wonderful new rubber stamps and dies released today:

4 Crissy Armstrong rubber stampsBart Loves Christmas ~ Christmas Dreaming ~ Jolly Little Santa ~ Little Santa Claws

4 Kenny K rubber stamps Drama Queen ~ Lady Victoria ~ Mistletoe ~ Mrs Claus

7 Raindrop Echo Designs rubber stamp setsHoliday Mini Postage Stamps ~ Holiday Pennants ~ Postcard to Santa ~ Seasonal Ornaments (compatible die available) ~ Stockings (compatible die available) ~ Advent Calendar ~ Holiday Postage Stamps

2 Raindrop Echo Designs Shapeology diesStockings Dies ~ Ornaments Dies

Finally, I would like to let you know that issue #4 of the Whimsy Stamps Inspirations Magazine will be released on 19 October! Woo-hoo! It's a FULL issue packed with never-before-seen creations from the Whimsy Stamps DT and guest designers, so be sure to check it out for lots of gorgeous inspiration!

And just to tease you a bit here is a tiny sneak from one of my magazine creations ;-)

To see the complete creation and many many more come back and visit the provided link above on the 19th!

Luv 'n hugs

BnW Challenge and Candy Winner re-draw

2011-10-11T09:54:00.000-04:00

Happy Tuesday all! I know I'm a day late with my posting for our Belles 'n Whistles Challenge but better late than never, right? ;-) Our wonderful Elise is the host this time and she challenges us to use our favorite Elisabeth Bell stamp. Sounds easy, huh? Haaaa but it was quite difficult to choose as they are ALL so super cute. I decided to go with Belinda with Teddy . I love her beautiful face and this stamp is also so versatile. Check out our challenge blog HERE to see the Christmas card version my lovely DT sister Kathrin made using the same stamp.

I also have to re-draw my Candy winner as the prize was not claimed yet. Scroll down to the end of the posting to see the new winner

Ok onto my challenge card now...

I colored sweet Bellinda with Copics. DP is Basic Grey 'Kioshi'. To cut my card base I used my Cricut. Other punches and dies used are Spellbinders and EK Success. The flower is from Whimsy and the ribbon, rhinestones and button are from my stash. I did not use a sentiment so this card can be used for many different occasions.

Here are two more photos:

Can't wait to see all your gorgeous creations!

As I already said my Birthday Candy was not claimed yet by the winner so I had to randomly pick a new winner. And the new winner is:

Manuela

Congratulations! Please contact me with your shipping info at cocoacrafts(at)gmail(dot)com

Have a wonderful day and thanks for stopping by!

Birthday Candy Winner

2011-10-06T23:13:00.001-04:00

Hello Everyone and sorry for being that late with posting my winner today! I had lots of errands to run and just came home. Well, I promised I'll announce the winner today and it still is Thursday here (and this for over another 4 hours...LOL) ;-) Ok and now without further ado....my randomly chosen winner of my secret birthday candy is.....

.........TADAAAAAAAAAA

No. 22 Sharon Peele

Edited to add the photo - finally *sigh*

And here's the candy:

Included is:
1 x Whimsy Autumn Letter Seals
1x Belles 'n Whistles 'Belinda with Teddy' from the SweetArt Girls Collection
1 x satin ribbon
1 x lace
1x small border punch
different buttons
different rhinestones
1 x bag mixed embellishments
paper doilies
mixed paper flowers
and
40 6x6 inch sheets of DP from Recollections 'Sugar Plums' pad
(20 different designs 2 of each, includes glitter paper!)

Congrats sweetie! Please contact me at cocoacrafts (at) gmail (dot) com with your shipping information! You have until Sunday evening to claim your prize. If the prize is not claimed until then I'll re-draw the winner.

~~Unfortunately I haven't had time yet to take a picture of the prize. I'll add it to this posting later.~~

Hugs 'n Luv

Wee Stamps For Whimsy Blog Hop

2011-10-05T12:00:00.000-04:00

***** Candy winner will be announced tomorrow *****

Hello Everyone! Today's the day! Whimsy Stamps is releasing 6 new Wee Stamps for Whimsy Stamps today and these new goodies are available to buy right now from the Whimsy Stamps store along with all your Whimsy favourites. So the wait is finally over and you can go and get your favorites :-)

There is also a BLOG HOP today to celebrate the release! The hop starts today (Wednesday October 5th at noon EST) and ends on Tuesday October 11th at noon EST. For all the details on the hop please visit the Whimsy Inspirational Blog!

I'm not participating in the hop this time, I've been busy creating for our new Magazine ;-). But I was able to whip up a card last night pretty quick with one of the Wee cuties available today in rubber! So I can at least join the celebration :-)

I used 'Silver Fairy' and colored her with Copics. The style is pretty clean and simple this time due to time issues...lol. But I guess I like the out come, keeps the focus more on the cute image. DP is from MME and the sentiment is from Whimsy's digital 'Christmas Sentiments'

And here are two more photos of my card:

Thanks for stopping by and have fun shopping!
Don't forget the blog hop and of course there will be lots of prizes ;-)

Luv 'n Hugs

Whimsy Wee Stamps Sneak Peek

2011-10-02T12:00:00.000-04:00

Hello Friends and Happy Sunday! We here at Whimsy are super excited to announce that from October, Whimsy Stamps will be releasing Sylvia Zet's adorable Wee Collection exclusively in Whimsy rubber!

Whimsy Stamps will be releasing six Wee Stamps for Whimsy Stamps rubber stamps this month on 5. October:

Autumn Happiness ~ Rose's Bike Ride ~ Silver Fairy ~ Sweet Blossom ~ Wee Suzi ~ Winter Fairy

The Whimsy Stamps DT are going to be sharing some fabulous sneak peeks of these darling stamps over the next 3 days in the lead up to their release on Wednesday 5. October! We will be holding a fantastic BLOG HOP on 5. October to celebrate the new release, so be sure to join us then as we will be giving away the entire release to one lucky hopper as well as having a few secret prize draws scattered throughout the hop.

To take a peek at today's amazing sneak peek projects, please visit the Whimsy Inspirational Blog for a list of participating blogs!

And here is what I like to show you today. A card I created with 'Sweet Blossom' which was published in our Whimsy Inspirational Magazine Issue 2

I colored the sweet little girl with Copics. The sentiment is from the Whimsy 'Schoolyard Fun' set from Raindrop Echo Designs. DP is from Authentique's 'Journey' collection. Dies and punches I used are from Whimsy's Shapeology line the 'Elegant Flourishes' and the 'Double Scallop Tag' and from EK Sucess and Marianne Design. To decorate the card I used Stickles, rhinestone swirls, gauze, ribbon, flowers and a glitter pen.

Here's a close-up on the image:

I absolutely love blue-brwon color combo's :-)

Thanks for stopping by today and don't forget to visit my fellow DT teamies blogs for more sneak peeks!

Hugs,

Your Color Choice - BNW Challenge

2011-09-26T03:00:00.000-04:00

Hello all! I hope you all had a fab weekend and are ready for our new Belles 'n Whistles challenge starting today! It's my turn to host the challenge and I thought I let you decide what colors you want to use... Pick your Favorite Color / Color Combination is our theme this time! Use one color or several, whatever your favorite is! Looking forward to see all the beautiful color combinations!

And here is my challenge creation. I decided to go with a brown-black combo for my 'spooktacular' card. The sweet image is called Little Witch with Broom and available in the Belles 'n Whistles store.

The cute little witch is colored using Copics. DP is from an older MME collection I found in my stash. The spiderweb is created using a Memory Box die. Sentiment is a stamp I found at Michales in the $1 bin. All other embellies are from my stash.

Thanks for visiting me today and hope to see you over at our Belles 'n Whistles challenge blog!

Hugs,

Lovely-Hanglar-Only Challenge No. 34

2011-09-25T09:00:00.000-04:00

Hello Everyone! Happy Sunday and welcome to our LHO challenge 34. Today we want to see something round shaped, so our theme is: Round. For all the challenge details and how to enter please visit our challenge blog HERE.

For my challenge creation I used this cute hAnglar boy winter image. To fit the theme I used several circle shapes on my card. DP is from Memory Box 'Spiceberry' collection. Copics were used for coloring the image. Sentiment is from Catslife Press. Dies used: Spellbinders, Memory Box Snowyville Border, Magnolia swirls and leaf die. Flowers are Whimsy buds and from my stash.

The shadow around the image is done using Prismacolor pencils.

Looking forward seeing your entries over at our challenge blog!
Happy crafting and thanks for stopping by!

Little reminder: My birthday candy is still open to enter until September 30th.
Click HERE to enter!

Whimsy Mini Magazine Release

2011-09-21T12:00:00.000-04:00

Hi all! On September 14th Whimsy released fabulous new rubber stamps and dies.Over the past week the Whimsy Stamps DT and Whimsy Special Guests have been showcasing these awesome new goodies, and each day was held a 24hr mini blog hop where you could enter to win a prize! So without further ado, the lucky winners are chosen! Please visit the Whimsy Inspirational Blog to see if you are one of them!

But there are more exciting news.......

We are delighted to announce that we are releasing a Whimsy Inspirations Mini Magazine today that focuses on the new release stamps!!

Here's a little teaser for you....

click on the picture to go to the magazine and see my whole project!

Finally, you still have a few more hours to take advantage of the fabulous Whimsy Stamps 10% discount on all new release stamps and die special offer. There is no need to enter any code when checking out as the 10% discount has already been applied. This special discount expires at midnight EST tonight (Wednesday 21 September 2011).

Thanks for visiting me today!

Santa's Coming To Town - Funky Fold Card

2011-09-20T02:00:00.001-04:00

Happy Tuesday stamping friends! How cute is this little fella balancing all his gifts!? One of my fav Christmas images from LOTV, not a new one but still oh so cute!

I made a different card shape this time, a funky fold card. Coloring is done with Copics and DP is from Basic Greys new 'Nordic Holiday' collection. Sentiment is from Whimsy's Holiday Ticket Sentiment Stamp Set. Snowflake dies are from Spellbinders (Create a Flake 1 & 3) and the Holly Swirl die is from Memory Box. Cherry Blossom is a Whimsy Bud and the mulberry paper aster I got from ebay.

To make the image pop I used different Stickles and Spica Glitter pens.

Here you can see the 'funky fold' from the side.

A few reminders:

My surprise Birthday Candy is still open
****click here to enter****

************

Two more days where the Whimsy Stamps DT will be showcasing these fabulous new stamps and shapeology die with a daily mini blog hop. For all the details and how to enter please visit the Whimsy Inspirational Blog!
Whimsy Stamps is also offering a fabulous 10% discount on all new release stamps and die. There is no need to enter any code when checking out as the 10% discount has already been applied. (Please note that this special discount is valid for one week only and until stocks last, and expires at midnight EST on Wednesday 21 September 2011.)

Thanks for stopping by today!

Journey Into The Sea

2011-09-17T01:00:00.000-04:00

Happy Saturday Everyone! Hope you are all enjoying your weekend! My card for today is one of my creations which were published in the last Whimsy Inspirational Magazine Issue 2 in August.

The cute mermaid stamp is by Crissy Armstrong, called 'Journey into the Sea' and was released by Whimsy in August. I stamped onto kraft card stock and coloring was done using Prismacolor Pencils, no blending medium was used. The sentiment is from the Whimsy Vintage Transportation sentiment set by Raindrop Echo Designs. DP is from Basic Grey ‘Lauderdale’ collection. The flourish die is from the Whimsy Shapeology collection.

Here's a close-up on the image and you can see the background shimmering golden. I used some gold metallic rub-on to get a shimmering gold effect for the background. It's just hard to see on the photo. This picture was still taken with my old camera.

****************************

REMINDER: On Wednesday (Sept 14th), Whimsy Stamps released our September rubber designs and new shapeology die! From then until September 21st, the Whimsy Stamps DT will be showcasing these fabulous new stamps and shapeology die with a daily mini blog hop.

Each mini blog hop will have a new release prize hidden somewhere along the way and you will have 24hrs to enter each prize draw.

To be entered into the daily mini blog hop prize draws, be sure to leave a comment on ALL of the DT's posts listed on the Whimsy Inspirational Blog by 9.00am EST tomorrow morning. All winners will be announced here on the Whimsy Inspirations blog after 12noon on September 21st.

Remember that the entire new release is available to buy right now from the Whimsy Stamps store along with all your Whimsy favourites. Whimsy Stamps is also offering a fabulous 10% discount on all new release stamps and die. There is no need to enter any code when checking out as the 10% discount has already been applied. (Please note that this special discount is valid for one week only and until stocks last, and expires at midnight EST on Wednesday 21 September 2011.)

Thanks for stopping by and have a wonderful weekend!

Hugs,

Whimsy Stamps September Rubber Stamps & Die Release

2011-09-14T11:00:00.000-04:00

Welcome to Whimsy Stamps September rubber stamp and die RELEASE DAY!

Whimsy Stamps have released 15 fabulous new rubber stamps and one wonderful new Shapeology die today. These new goodies are available to buy right now from the Whimsy Stamps store along with all your Whimsy favourites. From today until September 20th, the Whimsy DT and Whimsy Special Guests will be showcasing these fabulous new stamps and shapeology die with a daily mini blog hop. Each mini blog hop has a new release prize hidden somewhere along the way and you will have 24hrs to enter each prize draw by ensuring you leave a comment on every blog listed for that day.To be entered into today's mini blog hop prize draw, be sure to leave a comment on ALL of the DT's posts listed below by 11.00am EST tomorrow morning. All winners will be announced here on the Whimsy Inspirations blog after 12noon on September 21st.To take a peek at today's fabulous new release creations by the Design Team, please click on the links below...

Ann Vento Annika Ryan Debbie Eastman Ellie Stover Erin Bailey Mariska van der Veer {Special Guest}Stephanne Maraver

Here is a full list of the wonderful new rubber stamps and die released today:

3 Crissy Armstrong rubber stampsFootball Bart ~ Ock Toe Bur Fairy ~ Pum Kinnie Fairy

4 Kenny K rubber stamps Golfer ~ Scarlett West ~ Teen Idol ~ Wasn't Me

4 Meljen's Designs rubber stampsAcorn Mouse ~ Cat O Lantern ~ Fall Wreath ~ Little Bunny Witch

4 Raindrop Echo Designs rubber stamp setsAutumn Letter Seals ~ Lavish Flourishes ~ Steampunk Travels ~ The Fun Life Ticket Sentiments

Raindrop Echo Designs Shapeology die

Whimsy Stamps is also offering a fabulous
10% discount on all new release stamps
to all our wonderful Whimsy customers!

There is no need to enter any code when checking out as the 10% discount has already been applied. (Please note that this special discount is valid for one week only and until stocks last, and expires at midnight EST on Wednesday 21 September 2011.)

Don't forget to visit today's DT and leave a comment on their blog posts to be entered into the draw to win a new release stamp, then pop by on the Whimsy blog tomorrow for the next list of showcase posts!

Thanks for stopping by and I hope you enjoy our new release!

Hugs,

From The Heart - LHO challenge 33

2011-09-11T10:16:00.001-04:00

Welcome to our 33rd LHO challenge! Our theme this fortnight is 'Hearts or From the Heart'. Which means to use somehow hearts on your creations. The challenge will run through September 24th, 6pm MEST.

I made a Joy-Fold Card and used this cute little hAnglar bug on the flower pot. He's colored using Copics.DP is from an older Basic Grey collection called Eva (I think it's already retired) I love this paper pad an was so fortunate to get 2 more on Ebay :-) As for the hearts I have heart shaped rhinestones in the corners. Sentiment is from WOJ and the flowers are from my stash. Dies/punches are Spellbinders, MS and Marianne Creatables.

This card will be up for sale later today in my Etsy shop.

Little reminder: I have a birthdy candy running until September 30th.
Click HERE to enter!

Thanks for stopping by today and I hope you like to join in our 33rd LHO challenge.

Hugs,

SCACD Release Blog Hop

2011-09-09T04:00:00.000-04:00

Hello Everyone - Today is the day we have been sooooo been waiting for - the gorgeous new Sylvia Zet images are being released by SCACD Stamps! There are EIGHT fantastic and utterly adorable images, all exclusive to SCACD Stamps in yummy red rubber, and they are all available NOW!!!

The stamps are all now available, and if you just have to have them all, you can grab them in discounted sets!

US/Canada: You will find the stamps in the Sylvia Zet section at Susana's Custom Art & Card Design HERE.

UK/Europe: You will find the stamps in the Sylvia Zet section at Quixotic Paperie HERE.

To celebrate, we've got a hop for you today, filled with inspiration from the SCACD and Quixotic Paperie design teams PLUS some fabulous, special guests! Susana invited me to be one of them and it is as always a pleasure hopping along with these fantastic Designers. Thanks Susana!! :-D
We hope you will hop along with us as we introduce you to the Adventures Loli & Shellie, Poppy and the rest of their friends!

You should have hopped here from Alex' blog. If you're just joining us and would like to start the hop at the beginning, then pop back to the start over at ELAINE HUGHES' BLOG. A complete hop list can be found over on the SCACD Store Blog.

Here is what I created for the hop using one of the new cuties called 'Hope':

*** click on the images for larger view ***

I colored her like always, using my Copics. DP is from Basic Grey's brand new paper pad Indie Bloom. This is also available at Susana's store! Flowers, ribbon, lace and the rest of the embellies are from my stash. I used a MS border punch and the butterfly die and sentiment are from Whimsy.

Here's a closer look at the image

Your next stop on the hop is Melanie.

Thank you for stopping by, and I hope you enjoy hopping with us today!

Hugs,

Birthday Candy :-)

2011-09-08T04:00:00.000-04:00

Hello All! As I promised on Monday I'll be back today with posting my candy :-) 500+ followers, 500+ blog posts and my birthday today...that's for sure enough to celebrate with a candy, isn't it?!

Ok onto to the details....well it is going to be a surprise candy. I'm not telling exactly what's included, just a few hints.... there will be stamps, paper, embellies, flowers, a punch.... I can tell ya it's a yummy candy! ;-)

I'll reveal the candy here on the blog the day the winner is chosen. The candy is open to everyone and will run the whole month of September. I'll choose a winner randomly in the first week of October. Now to the rules, well it's pretty simple....spread the word about my candy on your blog! No need to follow my blog. (Well if you must, sure go ahead ;-) ). Just enter your name in the inlinkz tool at the end of this posting. Important: One entry per person please! Multiple entries will disqualify you! I will also delete entries that are 'Candy Only' blogs and no crafting reloated blogs. I like to give this candy away to one of my fellow paper crafters and not just to someone how is entering every giveaway in the www! Good luck to everyone!!!!!!

********************

Oh my and I just have to share with you all my birthday presents I got from my dear husband. OMG I am over the moon! He spoiled me rotten! :-D I got a 3G Beach Cruiser Style 'Newport' in glossy black with pink. Woohooo beach I'm coming LOL. I LOOOOOVE cruising on the beach!!!!! And it's going to be even more fun with my new bike. Can't wait to pedal away!

Ok and when I turned around to the table there was another gift wating for me.... a brand new digital SLR camera, the Canon EOS Rebel T2i....WOW! I couldn't believe my eyes! OMG I'm in 7th heaven. No more hastling around when trying to take decent photos of my cards...lol. Oh I'm really a lucky gal! THANKS SOOOOOO MUCH HONEY! *mwah*

Thanks for stopping by today and if you wont hear/read from my in the next couple of days you know why...lol I'm playing with my goodies ;-) Nah..never mind...I'll be back here tomorrow with some SCACD news ;-) And now don't forget to enter the candy and also let your friends know about it!

Hugs,

Time To Get Candy & Whimsy Giveaway Winner Re-draw

2011-09-05T14:09:00.000-04:00

Hello Everyone and Happy Labor Day for all in the US. If you have the day off today I hope you are enjoying your long weekend! Well I'm actually enjoying one full week of vacation. Hubby and I decided last week that it is time for a break and some much needed R&R. So all my posts going up this week are scheduled and I will be back next week!

Time for my first Halloween card of the season. One of just a few as I'm not making too many of them. This is a sweet little Gojuss girl availbale at Susana's store HERE. It's not a particular Halloween stamp and I actually colored her already quite some time ago with a complete different theme in mind.

When I decided to make a Halloween card I added the little spider and the web. This is a stamp I found last year at Michaels in the $1 section. I colored her using Copics. DP is from Bo Bunny's Garden Girl Collection also available at Susana's store HERE.

The banner die is from Whimsy, sentiment is a stamp from Studio G and the flowers are from my stash.

*********************

Unfortunately my Whimsy Wednesday Candy Winner didn't claim her prize. That means I had to re-draw the winner. Newly chosen winner is:

Jan Farnworth

Congrats hun! Please contact me with your shipping info at cocoacrafts(at)gmail(dot)com.

You have until Thursday evening to claim your prize!

*********************

I've recently reached 500 followers, my 500th blog post and it's my birthday Thursday.... so these are enough reasons for a candy, right? ;-) So I decided to give a way a surprise candy here on my blog. Candy starts on Thursday. For more details on the candy and what you have to do to win check back here with me Thursday!

Thanks for stopping by and have a great week!

Hugs,

Whimsy Wednesday Giveaway Winner

2011-09-01T15:13:00.000-04:00

Hello Whimsy Fans and Happy Thursday! Thanks for entering my Whimsy Wednesday Giveaway! And because I know you are already waiting for me to announce the winner I don't want you to wait any longer. Here it is! The winner of the surprise Meljens Rubber Stamp, chosen by random.org:

Random Integer Generator

Here are your random numbers:

Timestamp: 2011-09-01 19:00:58 UTC

Hanni

Congratulations sweetie! Please contact me with your shipping info at cocoacrafts(at)gmail(dot)com.

You have until Sunday evening to claim your prize!

Hugs,

Whimsy Wednesday 24h Meljens Giveaway

2011-08-31T09:00:00.000-04:00

Hello Everyone! It's time for my monthly Whimsy Wednesday Meljens Giveaway! If you are a frequent visitor of my blog you know what that means. If you are new I'll explain it real quick. Every last Wednesday a month I will be giving away a surprise Meljens Designs Rubber Stamp from Whimsy Stamps. This giveaway is only open for 24h! All you have to do is put your name down in the linky thing at the end of the posting and I'll draw and announce a winner tomorrow.

I made this bookmark for the recent release of our Whimsy Inspirational Magazine Issue 2. I used the cute Balloon Mouse from Meljens Designs and colored it using my Copics. The sentiment is from Raindrop Echo Designs Time Flies set. I paper pieced the balloon using DP from Basic Grey's Oxford collection. The image was masked and then I stamped the background with Antique Linen Distress Ink using the Music Notes Background stamp also from Raindrop Echo Design.

Here's a closer look on the paper pieced balloon and the stamped background

The border punch is from MS. Edges were distressed with Antique Linen and Walnut Stain.

Thanks for visiting and don't forget to put your name down in the inlinkz tool to have a chance on winning a surprise Meljens Designs Rubber Stamp! I'll announce the winner tomorrow evening!

Hugs,

Canvas Dezigns - REVIEW

2011-08-30T03:00:00.000-04:00

Hello All! Today I have no card or project to show but a review! I was recently approached by Canvas Dezigns a UK based company for custom-made canvas prints. They asked if I would like to write a review on my blog about their canvas prints. All I had to do was choose a favorite picture from my personal photos and mail it to them including the size I wanted and the style (bleed or no bleed).

I always wanted a nice photo of our two doggies to hang up somewhere in out house, just never came around to do it. So this was a great opportunity!

I sent my email with the photo and requirements on the 17th late at night around midnight US eastern time (which is around 5 o'clock in the morning on the 18th UK time). And according to the date stamp on the package it was sent off on the 18th already! WOW they are really quick! So my canvas print arrived at my door on Friday (26th) already! Which is pretty quick for a package from overseas I have to say.

The canvas was nicely wrapped and packaged very well. There was no damage to the canvas at all. It arrived in excellent condition. The print turned out beautifully and I'm over the moon. The quality of the canvas is excellent as is the workmanship!

I decided to go with the 'bleed' style which has wrap-around-edges and no visible frame. See photo above.

Here is a back view. You can see everything is professionally made. That's real quality and I can say I am impressed! Hardware to hang up my canvas was also included!

Their prices are downright affordable and you can choose from a variety of sizes or order your custom size (up to 40" wide and as long as you like). My canvas print is 16 x 12 inches and the prize on this size is £ 22 which converts to about $35.

Canvas Dezigns has been supplying trade and public customers alike since 2001 and some of their high profile customers have included DVB, BBC and they have recently appeared on ITV's 60 Minute Makeover.

I'll definitely recommend Canvas Dezigns to my family, friends and to you! They do brilliant work and I want to say a Big Thank You to Canvas Dezigns!!! I was given a 10% off coupon with my print for family and friends and as you are my blogging friends I like to pass it on to you too:

93HEXWF35U

Enter the code at checkout on the website!

Thanks for stopping by at my blog today and I hope you liked my review!

Hugs,

Belles 'n Whistles Sketch Challenge

2011-08-29T09:12:00.002-04:00

Hello fellow crafters! Another Monday and time for a new BnW challenge! Lovely Anki is our host today and she has a great sketch for you! Anki says:

"Today I have made a sketch for you - that I hope inspires you to create some lovely cards or projects.

The twist is that I would like to see your favorite shape - i.e you can replace the heart on the sketch below with any shape that you like. As always - you may turn the objects around - but make sure that we still can see that you've followed the sketch.

I hope you like the sketch and get inspired by it as we all did from the DT. For more details and some great inspiration from the DT please visit the challenge blog

Here is my creation. I made another Christmas card :-)

The image is 'Catch A Flake" from the Snowbabies collection. I colored using Copics. DP is Bo Bunny.

Dies and punches used are from Spellbinders, Marianne Design and Martha Stewart.

Thanks for stopping by

Hugs,

lovely-hAnglar-only Challenge 32 Starting Today!

2011-08-28T09:00:00.000-04:00

Happy Sunday & Welcome to our 32nd lovely-hAnglar-only challenge! Today we have a color challenge for you: purple/violet & cream. And this is what I came up with:

I started on making my Christmas cards and I thought this cute girl would look great in purple & cream. I colored her using my Copics. She was stamped onto Make it Color card stock from Make it Crafty. This was my first time using the MiC card stock and I have to admit it's GREAT!!! I heard everyone talking about this great card stock and wanted to try it out as well. A dear friend of mine sent me some samples so I could try before buying it! (Thanks again so much :-))) ) I'll definitely will buy some of it. What's the best is the 'no bleending' no matter how many layers you put on! Blending is very smooth as well! I can say it is in my Top 3 for Copic coloring card stock!

Thanks for stopping by and don't forget to join in this fun challenge over at the lovely-hAnglar-only challenge blog. You have until September 10th 6pm CEST to enter!

Hugs,

Fairy Friend

2011-08-25T20:53:00.000-04:00

Hello All! This is one of my cards I made for the Whimsy Inspirational Magazine issue 2 / August.

The cute fairy image is a Meljens Designs image and called Little Fairy Friend. I colored it using Copics and colored pencils (Prismas and Faber Castell) to deepen he shadows. I also made a tutorial on how to use Copics and pencils. You'll find it her in the new magazine: Copics & Pencils starting on page 42.

DP is from Basic Grey's ‘Whisteria’ collection, cardstock violetand purple from Colorbok.

Dies I've used are from Whimsy Shapeology: ‘Elegant Flourishes’ and Marianne Design: doily die. Embellishments:Whimsy Embellishments ‘Oval Ribbon Slider’, different Stickles, rhinestones,half pearls, ribbon, paper flowers.

Thanks for stopping by here today and I hope to see back here Sunday when the new lovely-hAnglar-only challenge starts.

Hugs,

Mass Production & Some Yummy Breads

2011-08-22T22:47:00.000-04:00

Hello Everyone and Happy Monday! Hope you all had a wonderful weekend and good start into the new week! Well we'll see what this week brings as a pretty big hurricane is aiming for the sunshine state here. It's already been predicted to be a cat three by the time it is supposed to hit Florida *eek* That's the bad news and the good thing so far is that it's path is moving more eastward with every new forecast. Which is good as it stays in the Atlantic then. Hopefully this will continue and it will completely stay away from any land at all and run riot in the open waters. *fingers crossed*

I went into some mass production of Thank You Cards on the weekend. A friend of mine asked me if I could make 30 Thank you cards for her as she and her husband celebrated their 20th wedding anniversary lately. So the pre-colored digital images from Whimsy came in very handy :-) As much as I like coloring but I was somehow not in the mood for coloring 30 times the same image *lol*

I made 30 of these and they are in a CAS style as requested by my friend. I chose Johnny Bird Boots as my image. I think this cute little fella is perfect for many occasions. I layered the image onto powder-blue card stock with a decorative punched border (MS punch).

The only 'embellishment' is a small pink frame matching the pink from the image.

On the inside is a removable photo on one side and on the other just 'thank you' in different languages and the names. The corners on the card stock layer from the photo where punched using an EK Success corner punch. (photos and names were blurred for privacy)

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After all that cutting, punching and glueing I decided it's time for something different for a change :-) So I went creative in my kitchen yesterday. Which btw is another hobby of mine .... cooking and baking. I just love it being creative in my kitchen and making everything from scratch. For me this is so relaxing and comforting!

Some of you know I was born and raised in Germany and there is one thing I'll always miss (besides my family & friends of course ;-) ) that's the German bread. And coming from an area in Germany (Franconia - the northern part of Bavaria) which is known for it's delicious breads and for having the most bread varieties too, it was even worse...LOL Note on the side: Franconia has also the most density of breweries per square kilometer (world wide) :-)

So it was not long before I started to bake my own bread and as I always loved to bake I made quick progress :-) And over the years I must say I have become a pretty decent artisan bread baker ;-)

This one is called Country Bread and is a hearty rye bread made with a poolish.

The second one is an Rustic Bread with a nice crunchy crust made with rye and whole wheat.

And in this picture you can see I did not wait long enough to cut the bread, it was still hot. But I had to be fast because freshly baked bread has a very short life in our house...LOL

Thanks for visiting me today!

Hugs,

Whimsy August Rubber Release Blog Hop

2011-08-17T12:00:00.082-04:00

Hello and welcome to the Whimsy Stamps August new rubber and die release BLOG HOP!

On August 10th, Whimsy Stamps released our August rubber designs and new dies. Today we are hosting a blog hop to celebrate this release and to share creations made using these 15 fabulous new Rubber Stamps and 3 wonderful new Shapeology Dies. These new goodies are available to buy right now from the Whimsy Stamps store along with all your Whimsy favourites. We also have our wonderful special guests joining us for this hop - Elaine Hughes, Zoe McGrath, Alberto Gava and Iwona "Chupa" Palamountain. The Whimsy Stamps DT have been showcasing these fabulous stamps for the past 6 days, so if you missed them be sure to hop on over to the Whimsy Inspirations Blog for some more inspiration!Here is a full list of the wonderful new August release rubber stamps and dies:

3 stamps from Crissy Armstrong
Bart Goes Golfing ~ Butterfly Sympathy ~ Hang In There

4 stamps from Meljen's Designs
Cupcake Treat Trio ~ Monkey Toes ~ Pen Pal Mouse ~ Topsy Turvy Cake

4 stamps from Kenny K
Bathing Beauty ~ Buggin Drummer ~ Wanda Wicked ~ Wedding Garter

4 stamp sets from Raindrop Echo Designs
Bottle Cap Sentiments ~ Film Markers ~ Schoolyard Fun ~ Vintage Seed Packets

3 dies/sets from Raindrop Echo Designs
Elegant Butterflies Die Set ~ Bottle Cap Die (coordinates with Bottle Cap Sentiments stamp set) ~ Film Marker Die (coordinates with Film Markers stamp set)

Today is also the release of the second edition of the Whimsy Stamps Inspirations Magazine! The magazine features never before seen samples and tutorials from our DT members as well as some creations from our customers and fans too! This issue is crammed full of crafty goodness and best of all it's FREE! Just click the link below and you will be taken to the magazine where you can read it online or download it and save to your computer.

CLICK HERE to view the
Whimsy Stamps Inspirations Magazine Issue 2

If you would like to hop along with us today and you didn’t arrive from Ann’s blog, please CLICK HERE to return to the beginning of the hop at Zoe’s blog.The hop starts today (Wednesday August 17th at noon EST) and ends on Wednesday August 24th at noon EST.For this hop we have 7 different prize draws! We have not one but TWO grand prize draws, so two lucky hoppers will win a large selection of new release stamps. Grand Prize 1 will be for those who help us advertise the hop, and Grand Prize 2 will be for those who hop along with us. We also have 5 mini candy stops throughout the hop where you can enter to win a new release stamp! I'm not going to tell you where they are, so if you haven't found them you'll just have to go back to the beginning and start hopping! ;-)

Onto my blog hop creation now....

-click on the photos for larger view-

I colored Kenny K's 'Wedding Garter' with my Copics. DP is from BG Whisteria Collection. Sentiments are from the new 'Film Makers' set. I also used the new and matching Fim Makers Die and the 'Elegant Flourishes Die'. Cherry blossoms are Whimsy Buds. The heart ribbon slider and crystal stems are also available at Whimsy's embellishment section.

Here are a few more photos of my creation:

I kept the inside without too many layers as I still wanted the card to shut flat!

I hope I could inspire you a bit with my creation!

So now it’s time for you to continue the hop by hopping over to Elaine's blog.

Finally, here is a complete blog hop list in hopping order:

Zoe McGrath
Patricia Garcia
Crissy Armstrong
Minna Paajanen
Simonne Clay
Alberto Gava
Iwona "Chupa" Palamountain
Donna Smith
Lori Pachkowsky
Debbie Eastman
Erin Bailey
Marley van der Heijden
Stephanne Maraver
Ann Vento
Iris Wiechmann
Elaine Hughes
Annika Ryan

Thank you so much for hopping with us today and I hope you enjoy the new release!

Hugs,

BnW Challenge & Whimsy Sneak Peek

2011-08-16T01:00:00.002-04:00

Hello Everyone & Happy Tuesday! I hope you are all well and had a good start into the week. Well I'm a bit late with my creation for our BnW Challenge as the challenge already started yesterday... *doooh*. But better late than never, right? And this fortnights theme is 'Anything Goes'!
So here comes my card I made using 'Pretty in Patches' from the just 'reborn' SweetArt Girls II collection. There are now 17 SweetArt Girl stamps available through Belles 'n Whistles.

I colored this beautiful little girl using my Copics. DP is from my new Bo Bunny "Garden Girl' paper pad and I thought it is just perfect for this stamp. Sentiment is from Whimsy's Summer Letter Seals. Flowers are from my stash and punched out using my retro flower punches.

So lets see what you've got and come and join in on our challenge! You can use any stamp designed by Elisabeth Bell to enter our challenges. It doesn't have to be a Belles 'n Whistles stamp. But if you have one we would love to see what you are creating with it! ;-)

****************************************

It's Sneak Peek Day 6 today at Whimsy and tomorrow is the big day - Blog Hop Day! So make sure and come back tomorrow to participate and have the chance of winning some yummy prizes along the way!

My Whimsy creation today is a complete different style from what I just showed you above. I made two cards and they are CAS, One Layer and Quick & Easy! By using the new School Yard Fun Sentiment Set I want to show you how easy and simple it can be to make a quick card when you are short of time but need a card.

I used kraft cardstock and stamped the image and sentiment right onto it. For coloring I used my Copics. On the left card I just added some bakers twine and used my Sakura Stardust Pen to give some glitz to the numbers. On the right card I drew a frame around the image after I was done coloring. Here are two more photos of the cards:

Thanks for visiting today and please stop by tomorrow for an exciting Whimsy Blog Hop!

Hugs,

LHO Challenge 31 - Vacation

2011-08-14T11:14:00.002-04:00

Hello & Happy Sunday to All of You! Vacation is the theme of our new lovely-hAnglar-only challenge, starting today! Oh boy...this was quite a challenge for me. I couldn't find a matching stamp in my stash of hAnglars so I had to wing it a bit. I picked this cute running girl and decided she is going on a fitness vacation, how about that?

(for larger view click on the photos)

This time I colored with distress inks for a change. Colors used are: skin- tattered rose, tea dye, vintage photo; hair- antique linen, vintage photo, walnut stain; cloth- wild honey, spiced marmalade, bundled sage, pine needles and walnut stain to shade. To color her sneakers I used twinkling H2O's.

DP is from MME Stella & Rose collection 'Mabel'. Sentiment is from Whimsy's Vintage Travel Collection. Dies and punches used: EK Success, Magnolia, Marianne Design. Flowers are from Prima, Kaisercraft, Whimsy. Other embellishments used: ribbon, buttons, lace, Stickles, half-pearls, spacers, metal flower, pearl brad.

Please don't forget to visit my DT sisters blogs and check out their amazing creations! You'll find all the links on our lovely-hAnglar-only challenge blog. You have time to enter the challenge until Saturday August 27th 6pm CEST (European time). Can't wait to see what you are creating.

This is also my entry for the ongoing Sketch Saturday Challenge!

Thanks for stopping by today and have a wonderful Sunday!

Hugs,

Do You Like Yummy Cake?

2011-08-11T02:00:00.003-04:00

Hello Whimsy Fans! The new Whimsy August Rubber Stamps have been released yesterday and are available for purchase in the Whimsy Store! The Whimsy DT is showcasing the new images, dies and sentiments now through next Wednesday when our Whimsy August Rubber Release Blog Hop takes place. So make sure you stop by daily at the Whimsy Inspirational Blog for a list of participating blogs!

Today I like to show a card I made with one of the new Meljens Designs stamps called Topsy Turvy Cake. (click on the photos for a larger view)

I colored this sweet cake stamp using Copics. I added lots of Stickles and 3D pearl pens for details. DP is from Basic Grey (so luscious) and Prima (Spring Time). Dies used are from Whimsy Shapeology (balloon dies) and Spellbinders. Sentiment is from Whimsy's Balloon Sentiment Set.

Here you can see all the details I've added using Stickles and 3D pearl pens to make the image pop.

I hope you like my creation and thanks for stopping by my blog today!

Hugs,

Whimsy August Rubber Stamp Release

2011-08-10T12:00:00.007-04:00

Today is an exciting day at Whimsy Stamps because it's ...
Rubber stamp and die RELEASE DAY!

Just as we did last month, we are releasing our August release stamps and dies a whole week before our new release blog hop! So that means... the August New Release rubber stamps and dies are available to buy RIGHT NOW from the Whimsy Stamps store!We are holding a fabulous new release BLOG HOP on 17 August, when we will have our usual plethora of prizes, special guests, and lots of amazing creations from our DT. From today until 16 August, the DT are going to be showcasing this month's new release stamps and dies, so be sure to stop by our blogs to see what we've created.Here is a list of the new stamps, sentiment sets and dies we have released today:

4 Kenny K rubber stampsBathing Beauty ~ Buggin Drummer ~ Wanda Wicked ~ Wedding Garter

2 Crissy Armstrong rubber stampsBart Goes Golfing ~ Hang In There ~ Butterfly Sympathy

4 Meljen's Designs rubber stampsCupcake Treat Trio ~ Monkey Toes ~ Pen Pal Mouse ~ Topsy Turvy Cake

5 Raindrop Echo Designs sentiment rubber stamp setsBottle Cap Sentiments ~ Film Markers ~ Schoolyard Fun ~ Vintage Seed Packets

3 Raindrop Echo Designs dies Elegant Butterflies Die Set ~ Bottle Cap Die (coordinates with Bottle Cap Sentiments stamp set) ~ Film Marker Die (coordinates with Film Markers stamp set)

They are all available to buy from the Whimsy Stamps store RIGHT NOW!

Please come back tomorrow when I'm showcasing one of the new stamps!
Happy shopping! :)

Hugs,

Belles 'n Whistles All Customer Blog Hop!

2011-08-07T18:00:00.066-04:00

Hello Everyone and Welcome to our Belles 'n Whistles All Customer Blog Hop!

Time to celebrate! Today here at Belles 'n Whistles we are celebrating the re-release of the second part of the all time favorite and super cute SweetArt Girls designed by Artist Elisabeth Bell. Belles `n Whistles now has a total of 17 SweetArt girls in their store. They were just too beautiful to be left sitting in the archives and Summer decided to put them on the market again in her Belles 'n Whistles store! Yay! - lucky us! *he, he*

If you have just come by my blog without starting at the beginning of the hop, it would be great if you could go back to the beginning at the Belles 'n Whistles Inspirational Blog and hop along with us. There you will also find the complete hopping list. To have the chance of winning a prize, please follow that list and leave a comment on each participating blog. All the details can be found at the beginning of this hop.

So sit back, grab your favorite drink and enjoy all the fun and exciting things that the Belles `n Whistles Customers, and our fabulous DT have to share with you today.

For my DT creation I used 'Sass n Class' and colored her using my Copics. DP is from Bo Bunny and the sentiment is one of the new digital Word Art Sentiments wonderful Lynda created for us. They all will be availabe in the BnW store (digital section) and they fit the BnW images just perfectly!

Dies I used are from Spellbinders and Cheery Lynn Designs. Flowers are from Prima and Whimsy. Other embellies used from my stash include: ribbon, lace, button, rhinestones, charm and Stickles.

Here is a closer look on the beautiful SweetArt Girl 'Sass n Class' :

I also like to enter the following challenges with my creation:

Bawion - Buttons & Ribbon

Papertake Weekly - Anything Goes

Your next stop in the hop is my super talented BnW sister Kathrin. I know she has something fabulous to show!

Thanks for hopping along with us today and have a great week!

Hugs,

Ok and to make it easy for you and in case you get lost here is the complete blog hop list:

TanyaJ

Carol(Granny)

Anki

Vanja

Janneke

JennyL

Audhild

Penni

Lorraine

Marion H

Lynda

Tammi

RhondaMiller

Lilian

Kim T

Elise

Becky Dunham

Martina B.

Alethea

Iris -- you are here

Kathrin

Mary Lou

Louise Hodge

Chelsea Le

Kathy

Gry

Sebrina

Kat

Vicki

Laetitia

Linda

June
Crafty Kitten

I'm Back!

2011-08-05T21:20:00.001-04:00

Hello friends and Happy Weekend! I'm back from vacationing and hope you are all doing great! The card I want to show today is made using a Teddy Bo digital stamp. Isn't this guy just adorable? I had this image colored ages ago and never came around posting this card.

I colored using Copics and Prismas. The paper I used is from my scrap box so I don't know the brand anymore. Flowers are from my stash as well as the other embellies. Not much more to say about my card though....

And don't forget Monday is Belles 'n Whistles RELEASE DAY with our ALL CUSTOMER BLOG HOP!

Thanks for visiting and have a great weekend!

Whimsy Wednesday Giveaway Winner

2011-07-28T14:45:00.004-04:00

Hello All! Thanks to all of you who entered the Whimsy Meljens Wednesday Giveaway! I'll keep it super short today. I just drew the winner and here we go........

Random Integer Generator

Here are your random numbers:

Timestamp: 2011-07-28 18:36:55 UTC

Lucky number 3 - Ilona

Congratulations hun! Please contact me with your shipping info at cocoacrafts(at)gmail(dot)com.

You have until Sunday noon to claim your prize!

Thanks for entering and visiting my blog! See you all next week when I'm back with new creations!

Hugs,

Whimsy Blog Hop Grand Prize Winner and Wednesday Giveaway!

2011-07-27T14:11:00.005-04:00

Hello Everyone and Happy Hump-Day! It's the last Wednesday of the month and time for my Whimsy Meljens Wednesday Giveaway! Sorry another posting where I have no project to share but I'm taking a little break this week. Needed a little time off for enjoying Summertime and to work on some other projects. I'll be back next week with new stuff :-)

Ok but before I go on with the Wednesday giveaway I like to announce the Whimsy Grand Prize Winner from our July Rubber Release Blog Hop! Woohoo...drum roll please........ the winner is:

Aartje

You just won the following stamps:

Victory Kid, Boogie Down & Spy Chick along with
Adventure Mini Postage Stamps and Vintage Bottle Labels

Congratulations sweetie! Please contact me with your shipping information at: cocoacrafts(at)gmail(dot)com. You have a week from today to contact me. If the prize is not claimed until then I'll re-draw the winner.

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And now the Whimsy Wednesday Giveaway! I'm having the honor of giving away 1 surprise stamp from 'Whimsy's Meljens Designs Collection'. Kindly sponsored by Denise from Whimsy Stamps. All you have to do to be eligible for the prize draw is enter your name below in the linky gadget. That's it! Easy peasy isn't it? So come and play along!

But remember, the candy is only open for 24 hours! So better be quick and put your name in right away Let all your blogging friends know about it, but this is not a must! I'll draw a winner tomorrow evening. Good luck to all who enter!

Hugs,