Are You Ready for a Free Give Away???????????

Hi everyone!  I've been absent for a long time now.  Coming back to California the beginning of December I found myself overwhelmed with our kitchen renos and unexpected visitors.  And, with all the Christmas entertaining and visiting we've been doing, I just haven't been able to get my stamping and creative mojo on.  Well it's back now after my much needed hiatus and I'm ready to get those creative juices going again! To add to that excitement I now have a new camera (thanks mom) and a card reader I've just purchased, so I should be able to start posting pictures again real soon....... maybe tonight!   I want to share my Christmas cards with you and some of those kitchen reno pics before the New Year arrives.

Since I've been so out of touch with everyone, I'm hoping all of you faithful readers have had a wonderful Christmas and you're looking forward to 2010 and the excitement and wonder that a new year brings. I know I am and I want to add to that excitement by offering something free. 

I've been thinking a lot lately about ways to improve my stamping and blogging skills and do more creative things in 2010, and since it's almost New Years, why not make some resolutions:  Here goes...........

1.  I am going to make time to stamp or create more than once a week.
2.  I am going to post to my stamping blog every Sunday.
3.  I am going to take more photos of things I make and share them with you.
4.  I'm going to enter more challenges and try out more new things............ UStamp with Dawn and Friends, Mojo Monday, Kerner's UGirls............. here I come.
5.  Play with My Digital Studio more and share what I've learned............
6.  I'm definitely going to have more fun!!!

Okay that's enough about my resolutions.............how about you?  Will you be making any New Years Stampin Resolutions?  If so send me a comment with your resolution(s) or plans and I'll enter your name into a draw for New Year's Day.   The value of my free draw gift is $24.95 US so it's well worth your while............... stay tuned for more details and don't forget to send me your comments by Dec 31st............... let your friends know too!

12 Days of Christmas - December 11 - 22, 2009

These might be the most exciting 12 days of December with select Big Shot dies and vinyl sheets for the Big Shot on sale! The 12 Days of Holiday Sales began on December 11th and runs through December 22.

Some of the items introduced in this sale are new colors of Décor Elements vinyl sheets. There are 18 new colors to choose from, and they make great projects when you use them with Big Shot dies. Consider pairing the Clear Décor Elements vinyl sheets with the Tulipe Bigz die to create an etched-like design on a vase. Or use the Decorative Accent Bigz dies with the Old Olive Décor Element vinyl sheets to enhance a frame. The combination of Big Shot dies and Décor Elements vinyl sheets is sure to take your creativity to a new level! Make sure you visit my website and click on my on-line store and check out the 12 Days of Holiday Sales!

Only Seven More Sleeps until Blowout 2009........... I Can't Wait!!!

Only 7 days remaining until UStamp With Dawn's big year end BLOWOUT begins..................... are you excited?  I know I am! If you're a stamper like me you are going to really enjoy this amazing
online WORLDWIDE event.  Every day a NEW project/video is posted with downloadable step by step tutorials, that you can work at in your time.  You also have an opportunity to chat with folks from around the world who like to have fun and stamp too.  Such value for so little money................ only $24.98 US.  
If you haven't signed up yet or if you need more information about this exciting stamping event you can get all the details and FAQ info at this link: http://ustampwithdawn.blogspot.com/   Hope to see you there!!!

I have some very exciting news to share with you today. I’ve just heard that opening day for "UStamp with Dawn & Friends!! Year End Blowout 2009" will be December 1st. This is going to be another fantastic World Wide event…………….. NOT to be missed!!

Dawn and her fabulous Design Team will be offering 31 days of new project tutorial downloads and prizes everyday!! As always there will be live Chats and more. One of the many great things about UStamp is that YOU create when YOU are ready. LOVE the projects, but don't have time to make them yourself during the crazy holidaze?? No worries!! The website remains open for many months, ready when you are to create so you won't miss out Fun project themes of "Parties, Celebrations and Gift Giving" will totally hook you up for all your upcoming celebration needs right out of the gate for 2010!! Once all the hoopla of the holidays dies down, you will be thrilled that you can fill your January making creative projects from the Year End Blow Out event.

From now until November 17th you can sign up and take advantage of the Early Bird Pricing of only $19.98. CLICK HERE TO JOIN. After November 17th the fee to join goes up to $24.99.

Host a "Catalog Workshop"

Do you have limited room, or can't get it together to hold a workshop in your home?  Then I have the solution for you.  It's fast and easy..............Host a Catalogue Workshop!  You can HOST from the convenience of your personal computer (even in your jammies if you like), and receive free product! A workshop totaling $400 in orders from your friends gets you...

• A free hard copy of the Stampin’ Up! Idea Book & Catalog. Or, if you already have one, choose between a Classic or Craft ink pad in the color of your choice
• Two free hostess sets from the Idea Book & Catalog **2 level one sets, or 1 level one and 1 level two hostess set from the Idea Book & Catalog**
• $30 in free Stampin’ Up! merchandise of your choice.
• get any one item from the Holiday 2009 Mini Catalogue for just $14 when you host a $330 workshop.*
  
  All you have to do is e-mail the following information to your friends. Let them know you are hosting a Catalog Stampin’ Up! Workshop. Tell them that for each $100 order, they will receive an Idea Book & Catalog for free. The average customer order is $50.00, so all you need is 8 friends to order $50.00 for you to reach your goal.

To reach your goal, I suggest e-mailing at least 15 to 20 people. If you exceed your goal, it only means more free merchandise for you.*  All workshop orders will be shipped directly to your home.

*Take advantage of the Sweet Rewards Hostess Promotion running from November 30 and get 50 percent off My Digital Studio™ if you host a $525 workshop! Plus, get any one item from the Holiday 2009 Mini Catalogue for just $14 when you host a $330 workshop.


Have fun!!   Contact me for more information on how this is done:
Penny Hanuszak, Independent Stampin’ Up Demonstrator
Email: penny.hanuszak@telus.net

Holiday Extravaganza

Make Stampin' Up! your one-stop shop for all your holiday gift-giving needs. With our Gift Giving Guide you can quickly and easily find gifts for kids, teens, neighbours, and more! Plus, get a FREE Décor Elements (up to a $22.95 value) when you spend $65 on products in the guide.
Visit my Online Store today to place your order!  Download the Gift-Giving Guide (PDF)"

Winter Post Stair Step Card

While I was on vacation in Laughlin Nevada my Holiday project was featured on UStamp with Dawn and Friends. I thought you may like to see it.  I designed a Stair Step card and used two classic Stampin' Up stamp sets - Winter Post and Lovely as a Tree. 

This card is unique in that it features a gift card or tag holder on the back made with the Top Note Die from BigZ Shots. 

If you are interested in participating in the Holiday Session of UStamp, you can get information and sign up here. There are still 12 days left in this session and the projects so far have been fabulous!!! It's never too late to join, you will have access to all the projects for a long time, even after it closes."

Final Week - Deals of the Week # 4:

The final deals of the week are from October 26, 10 AM (MT) through October 31, 11:50 PM (MT)."Princess Party Kit 116214

Regular Price: $15.54      Preferred Price: $13.99

You can make your princess's fantasies come true with our Princess Party kit. Your little princess and seven of her ladies-in-waiting can celebrate a splendid happily-ever-after complete with invitations, decorations, and dazzling crowns to create and wear.

■ Contains products to create invitations, crowns, purse boxes, banner, and food toppers for eight

■ Coordinates with the Princess Time stamp set and Princess personalized name stamp"

Pirate Party Kit 116213  
Regular Price: $15.54    Preferred Price: $13.99
Hoist the Jolly Roger and get ready to have a swashbuckling good time! Gather your little buccaneer and his or her mateys for a pirate party of the finest sort, complete with invitations, decorations, and eye patches to create and wear. This kit contains products you need to create party invitations and decorations for eight guests.


■ Contains products to create invitations, eye patches, banner, treasure boxes, and food toppers for eight

■ Coordinates with our Pirate Time stamp set and Pirate personalized name stamp

"Fabulous" Blog Award

My very talented and creative friend Lainee from Murray Bridge South Austrailia has honoured me with a blog award............. this is so exciting, and so nice...........thanks Lainee!

So in order to accept this award I need to share 5 things I am addicted to and then pass the award on to 5 other lovely blogs.  So, here goes:

1.  I am a paper addict............. it's like ladies that quilt and collect all those quarters.  I love to collect the prettiest of papers.

2.  Like all good stampers I'm totally addicted to chocolate............ only the darkest will do!

3.  I'm totally addicted to participating in UStamp with Dawn and Friends sessions............. I get to meet the nicest people there and love all the projects.

4.  I'm addicted to late night stamping and blog surfing.............need I say more.

5.  I'm addicted to making pretty boxes and 3 dimensional projects........ can't get enough of them.  It's like an adrenaline rush when I'm able to create something.  

Whew there's my five addictions.......................I think there's probably a lot more but those are all stamping related.  And now I get to name 5 blogs that I love visiting in those wee hours.  Thank you ladies for sharing all your talent and inspiration............... I am always in awe when I visit your sites!  Make sure you visit their sites too!

Becky Roberts              Inking Idaho
Andrea Walford            Sunny Stampin Ink
Jenny Moors                 Stamping Moments
Ellen Kemper                Blinkin, Thinkin, Inkin
Sharon Field                 Created By U

Deal of the Week October 1-31, 2009

1/2 Inch Library Clips Item #112581

Let your inner librarian run wild when you clip a tag to a project with one of our adorable Mini Library Clips. These clips to add the right touch to your projects.

Regular Price: $6.10   Preferred Price: $5.49 (learn about preferred pricing)

■ Contains 24 pieces

■ 8 each of 3 colors: Chocolate Chip, Old Olive, Whisper White

■ Powder finish

■ 1/2" x 3/4"

Basic Jumbo Grommets Item #114348

Custom designed, these large grommets add some real spunk! These grommets can even frame small images for real art appeal.
Regular Price: $7.21 Preferred Price: $6.49 (learn about preferred pricing)
■ Colors: Basic Black, Silver, Very Vanilla and Whisper White
■ 5 each for a total of 20 pieces

Circle Designer Brads Item # 112571 These high-quality cast brads are so easy to use and come in custom Stampin' Up! designs. They're finished in our Styled Silver, and can be used separately or with our Hodgepodge Hardware.

Regular Price: $6.10  Preferred Price: $5.49 (learn about preferred pricing)
■ Assortments include 16 pieces; 8 each of 2 sizes (1/2" and 3/4")
■ Use to embellish cards, scrapbook pages, and other paper crafts




Mini Library Clips Item #109857

Let your inner librarian run wild when you clip a tag to a project with one of our adorable Mini Library Clips. These clips are 1/4" x 1/2" and each package contains 12 each of 4 colors (Black, Silver, Antique Brass, and Pewter).

Regular Price: $14.43    Preferred Price: $12.99 (learn about preferred pricing)

New Blog Candy Winner................

Thank you everyone for your comments.  It was so much fun checking out which stamp sets and accessories you liked the most!  I wish you all could have been winners!  I ran a random number generator and it selected Paperbagcreate, who said........"My fave stamp set would have to be the Serene Snowflakes...with Delightful Decorations close behind....and of course the Ornament Punch that coordinates with the set....Look forward to seeing your new projects!! Smiles. Sheri". 

Congratulations Sheri, I am so happy for you!  You've won a free pass to join the UStamp with Dawn and Friends Designer Holiday 09 which starts on Friday!  I hope both you and Trina Pham my previous blog candy winner both enjoy this event and all the great projects you will be able to make! 

Week Two - Deal of the Week! Oct 13 - 19, 2009

It's Deal of the Week time again and this time it's all about Die Cuts

Flower Burst Stampin' Up! Embosslits Die  114515
Regular Price: $8.32
Preferred Price: $7.49

With a little effort, this burst of sunshine will add volume and dimension to any project. The modern flower has an Eastern influence, and would look stunning used with the Eastern Blooms stamp set.■ Use a Sizzix Big Shot machine, standard cutting pads, and multi-purpose platform with this die■ 2-1/4" x 2-1/2"■ Chemically-etched die that includes negative and positive images for cutting and embossing at the same time■ Stampin' Up! exclusive die

Perfect Setting Stampin' Up! Bigz Xl Die 15961
Regular Price: $38.88
Preferred Price: $34.99

A perfect event needs a perfect setting. We've got you covered with our Perfect Setting Bigz XL die. With it, you can create cupcake holders and napkin rings from card stock, Designer Series paper, or other material. The cupcake holder is designed to hold a standard-size cupcake. This design is part of Shelli’s Signature Collection.■ Can cut through multiple sheets of card stock, Texture Cuts wood sheets, window sheets, Décor Elements sheets, and more■ Use with Sizzix Big Shot machine and extended cutting pads ■ Die size: 6" x 13-3/4"  Free shipping on this item!

"Three Tier Cake Pop-Up Bigz XL from Stampin' Up 116760
Regular Price: $38.88
Preferred Price: $34.99
Why settle for one dimension when you can have three? Create perfect wedding and party projects with this pop-up die that will add dimension and depth! ■ Designed to cut through one sheet of paper or card stock at a time
■ Use with Sizzix Big Shot machine and extended cutting pads; for best results, also use extended premium crease pad
■ Die size: 6' x 13-3/4'"

If you're interested in purchasing any of these deals just go to my online shopping service and click on Deal of the Week.  Happy Shopping!

Blog Candy - Another Give Away - Send Me a Comment!!!!

Only four more sleeps to go before UStamp with Dawn & Friends!! Holiday 09 starts.   As promised, I have another FREE PASS TO participate in the next round of UStamp with Dawn & Friends Holiday 09 (a $24.95 US value)  ............ isn't that exciting!!!!  This session promises to be even better than the two previous ones, and is focussing totally on holiday projects.................I've had a sneak peak and I can tell you they are awesome! 

So don't miss out, all you have to do to win this fabulous prize is send me a comment telling me what is your favourite Stampin' Up Winter/Christmas Stamp Set and/or Accessory.   Pretty simple don't you think?  I can't wait to hear from you.............................

Please respond no later than Wednesday Oct 15th to get in on this fabulous prize!  The winner will be drawn that evening.

If you've already registered, still respond because you will be reimbursed for your payment. 

UStamp Designer Holiday 09 Winner Has Been Found!!!

Drum roll please..................... the lucky winner of the Free Pass to the Designer Holiday  UStamp 09 is Trina Pham from Vancouver, BC.  This is so exciting and I'm so happy for Trina.  Trina had already signed up for this session, but she'll be reimbursed and will be able to participate absolutely free.  The new session which begins October 16th and runs through November 13th is still open for registration, so if you haven't signed up yet make sure you click on the UStamp widget to go to the registration site.  I can't wait to start making my Christmas cards and projects and I hope you're the same.  Once again congratulations Trina, hope you have lots of fun!!!

Deal of the Week………….It’s Back

Stampin' Up! has brought back the Deal of the Week. They will be offering several discounted products as "Deals of the Week" during the month of October. There are no limits and no minimum purchases required…………I’m thinking Christmas presents here for those we know who love to stamp!!!

Be sure to check out each week’s new deal.  New Deals of the Week will begin at 10 AM (MT) on their assigned day. They will be posted on my web page and the Stampin’ Up’s Online Store. The dates are:

• Deal #1: Thursday, October 1, 2009; 12:01 AM (MT)

• Deal #2: Monday, October 12, 2009; 10:00 AM (MT)

• Deal #3: Monday, October 19, 2009; 10:00 AM (MT)

• Deal #4: Monday, October 26, 2009; 10:00 AM (MT)

Things to Remember:

• You can order online using my Shop Now online shopping service. Your order will be sent directly to you with no delays.

• The deadline for each new deal is 10 minutes before the next deal is announced, except for Deal #4, which ends at the end of the business day October 31.

This week’s Deal of the Week (October 1st to 12th) is a trio of punches that pack some WOW! Punches are a quick and easy way to add interest, dimension, and color to your cards, tags, and scrapbook pages. You can glue punched shapes directly onto your projects or layer a sheet of card stock that has been punched over a coordinating card stock for a reverse effect.

5-Petal Flower Punch 109041

The 5-Petal Flower punch coordinates with the In the Spotlight and Ginormous Flowers stamp sets. It also coordinates with the On Board Blossoms & Basics and Cutie Pie Designer Series paper. Price: $22.95

Trio Flower Punch 109183  - The Trio Flower punch will give you three identical flowers with each punch! Price: $22.95

My Way Punch 110709

The My Way punch looks fantastic on projects where you want to direct attention to a small detail.  Price: $22.95 

Blog Candy Winner...........Where Are You????

Well last week I posted the winner of the free pass to UStamp Holiday 09 Session ...........but so far haven't heard from her.  Trina of "Contactrina" please email me at pennyhanuszak@telus.net to let me know your contact information so I can get you signed up for your pass.  If I don't hear back from Trina by the end of the week I will re-draw on this prize...................it's too valuable to pass up. 

Blog Candy Winner -

Before I announce the winner of a free pass to Designer Holiday 09 UStamp I'd just like to thank everyone for your kind words of encouragement!  You made my week, let me tell you.  Secondly I'd like to apologize for not drawing on the 29th as noted in my post. I've been having difficulties accessing the internet since I added Norton Utilities on the past weekend.  Looks like all my cookies etc. got deep sixed. My evenings have been spent restoring stuff, instead of stamping and creating............ what a frustration!!!  Anyway it's fixed now!

What grand suggestions all of you made.............everything from christmas cards to purses and boxes!  Although I'm not going to spoil the surprise by telling you what I'm making, I'm sure you're going to be happy!  One of my greatest joys in participating in the UStamp with Dawn and Friends sessions has been checking in each day to see what the newest project  would be and I was never disappointed!

Now for our winner........................drum roll please.  Our lucky winner was picked through a Random Integer selector and it is............................ "contacttrina  who said... "Congratulations, Penny! Can't wait to see your creations. I love A2 card holders, boxes and purses. September 29, 2009 9:14 PM

So Trina please send me your full name and contact information to my email at:  pennyhanuszak@telus.net and we'll get you set up for the Holiday UStamp beginning October 16th.   I hope you're excited because I sure am!

For those of you who were kind enough to comment but didn't win, don't give up,  check back because I'm going to have another give away in a week or so!  If you're interested in registering for the UStamp with Dawn & Friends!! Holiday 09  Click Here for full details and registration information.

New On Line Store Feature - The Clearance Rack

Have you heard the news yet about Stampin Up's latest "On Line Shopping" Feature?  Well if not here's the news!  In order to clear out their inventory of surplus items that have been retired, Stampin Up has launched the "Clearance Rack".  This is not a promotion - there is no set end date.  Just like any Clearance rack these items will only be available as long as supplies last and all sales will be "final" - no returns or exchanges unless a product is defective.  You'll need to check back regularly to see what's new and available because these unadvertised specials will constantly be changing.


To access and take advantage of this great new feature simply click here or click my side bar ON LINE shopping widget.  This will take you into my demonstrators website (DBWS).  Once you're there, simply click on the "SHOP NOW" bar under my demonstrator information in the top right hand corner of the screen, then look for "Clearance Rack" on the left-hand side bar of the online store.

Swaps From New Zealand

In an earlier post I mentioned that I was super excited and felt very lucky to have Holly Griffiths from New Zealand as my swap sister in the Fall UStamp with Dawn and Friends event.  Late last week Holly's swaps arrived and let me tell you I was not disappointed.  Take a look at these pictures of her amazing swaps!!!

Not only did Holly send me a great little gift card and matching purse, but it was filled with chocolate bars. Now how cool is that!  She also sent some post cards from the area she lives and a beautiful little note pad.  Holly included another notepad in Baja Blue which is just gorgeous. 

Thanks so much Holly!  I loved these swaps.  If you'd like to check out what I sent to Holly visit her fabulous blog called Holly's Stampin Ground by clicking here.

Are You Ready For My Exciting News?

UStamp with Dawn and Friends is having a very special Holiday UStamp which will run from October 16th to November 13th, 2009. 

And guess what?  I'm so excited to let you know I've been asked by Dawn to be a Guest Designer for her Holiday UStamp.  Now if you've been following my blog you  know just how much fun I've had in both the Summer and Fall UStamp with Dawn and Friends sessions.  Just having the opportunity to see and try out all the projects made by Dawn and her amazing dream team and crew girls has been so exciting for me.  So, to be invited to join in as a guest designer with this fantastic group is just the utmost thrill for me!

To celebrate this great news I have a treat for you too.   I will be giving away a free pass to participate in UStamp Holidays,  on September 29th.  All you have to do is visit my blog between now and then and leave me a comment about what types of projects you love to make for the holiday season. You could be the winner!

Christmas is Coming and That's Not All...............

This note is just a little teaser of things to come.  I want to know if you love the Christmas season like I do?  Is this the time when you anticipate all the great cards and gifts you're going to make for your friends, family and co-workers? Want a little help, want great ideas?  If so I have some really exciting news of an upcoming event that I've had the privilege to be asked to participate in and I want to share my excitement with you!  Stay tuned because I'm going to share that news with you and I'm also going to be giving away some blog candy!!!  You don't want to miss out on this news so come back in a few days and I'll give you some details.

Check Out This Invitation Holder

Linda Hansen one of the US Crew Girls from UStamp with Dawn and Friends Fall 09 program created a beautiful invitation holder as one of  her designs in this round.  Isn't this gorgeous?  Linda made the base from Rich Razzleberry card stock and incorporated an invitation which she created on her computer.  The monogram letter is from the Lovely Letters Alphabet set (115030 pg 152 IB&C).   And don't forget the ribbon...... of course its SU's dotted ribbon in Rich Razzleberry.

I loved Linda's design and decided to make one but with a few changes of my own.  I wanted to achieve a rich classic look, so I used Basic Gray Cardstock and matching Basic Gray Taffeta ribbon for my accent.  I texturized the front fold-over piece of cardstock using the Big Shot FlourishTexturz Plates (# 114512 Stampin Up Backgrounds #1 pg. 195 IB&C).  To enhance the look of the embossing I brushed on some silver ink rub that I had in my stash.  This is where it would have been great to have the new Platinum Shimmer Paint ( #116807 pg 27) from the Holiday Mini Catalogue.  Believe me with Christmas coming the PSP is on my wish list!

I improvised with the monogram as I didn't have the alphabet set Linda used ( it's on my wish list too).  Since I fell in love with the card sample on page 139 of the IB&C I purchased the Three Little Words stamp set.  I knew this would work perfectly for my monogram letter, with a little improvising.  I simply inked up the "T" from the first letter of the "Three little words for you" stamp with Basic Gray Ink  and then used a baby wipe to take off any excess ink before stamping the letter.  It seemed to work pretty well, as you can see from this close up. 

My computer was off when I was making this at 2:00 in the morning and I didn't feel like turning it on to make an invitation insert, so instead I used some old stationary with a mottled grey background to stamp the sentiment and flower.  The sentiment is one of my favourite quotes, from the Dreams Du Jour stamp set (#111624 Pg 99 IB&C), and the flower is from the Friends 24-7 stamp set (#113218 pg 100 IB&C).   I added some Dazzling Diamonds to both the monogram and the flower to finish it off. 

Well, what do you think?  Do you like it?  Did I achieve the rich classic look?  Let me know, I always appreciate hearing from you.

Enjoy!

What’s Up You Might Ask?

You might be wondering “where’s Penny, and why isn’t she posting? What has she been doing this month? Well, let me tell you September has been a really fun month for me, and I’ve been doing the things I love.

To begin with I’m participating in Ustamp with Dawn Fall 2009 and what a blast it’s been. I was amazed at how much fun the summer Ustamp was, but I’m absolutely bowled over by the beautiful projects and the numbers of women participating from around the globe in this fall session. I can’t wait to get on my computer every day and check out who’s there and what the latest projects are and then get to my studio to do the “creating” part. So stay tuned as I start to post more of my projects.

I was delighted to find out I was paired with Holly Griffith from New Plymouth, New Zealand as “swap sisters”. Wow what fun I had making my projects to send to Holly. I managed to get everything done and mailed two days before deadline. Woo Hoo! I can’t show you my whole project yet because it’s a secret until we post our swaps on September 28th on Ustamp with Dawn and Friends but here’s a sneak peak…………….. Is this exciting or what!

Also this week my door bell rang twice, sending the dogs (yes dogs………… I’m babysitting dogs this month for good friends) into a frenzy. I was in a frenzy too because my latest shipment of goodies from the Holiday Mini Catalogue had arrived by UPS.

These goodies include the new My Digital Studio.  Over the coming weeks I hope to share a number of projects that I have created using the MDS so stay tuned! Here are some details you need to know about My Digital Studio.

Beginning October 1, 2009 - Go digital with Stampin' Up's "My Digital Studio"

• Perfect for beginner or intermediate digital scrapbookers or cardmakers. There are also enough creative options that advanced users will have everything they need

• Creates cards, pages, calendars, books, and albums - plus interactive digital scrapbooks that you can burn to DVD.

• Runs on PC and Mac (PowerPC and Intel) platforms

• Three ways to design: Build from scratch; generic card, calendar, and scrapbook templates and pre-designed scrapbook templates (just drop in your photos)

• Three product line elements: My Digital Studio software, printing services, and downloadable brushes and papers through the online store - Digital Downloads

• My Digital Studio comes on a DVD with a selection of brushes, not all of which are available as Digital Downloads

• Digital Downloads can be used with My Digital Studio or with another application, such as Photoshop Elements

• Digital Downloads will be available in the online store

• Printed versions of your digital creations can be ordered through My Digital Studio printing services

Stampin' Up Workshops

A Stampin' Up! workshop is a creative event you host at your home, or in my home. You can even hold a virtual workshop on line (ask me for details). It's an event where you invite your friends to enjoy an exciting demonstration provided by a Stampin' Up! demonstrator. When you host a workshop, you'll see new project ideas, learn different techniques, make a project, and have fun with people you enjoy.

As a hostess, you'll work with me to choose a date for a workshop, then invite your friends and family into your home or mine, to stamp and have fun with you. Your Stampin' Up! workshop can be as simple or elaborate as you want it to be. It can be a class where you make specific projects, or a training event where you learn new techniques. No matter what you have in mind, I will help you make it the perfect event for you and your friends!

Three Great Reasons to Host a Workshop

1. "FREE STUFF! When you host a workshop, you can earn FREE stamp sets, ink, paper, accessories, and more! Check out our Hostess Benefits table to see all you can get.
2. SEE HOSTESS BENEFITS EXCLUSIVE PRODUCTS FOR HOSTESSES! Hostesses have the opportunity to earn exclusive hostess-only products that cannot be purchased from the catalog.FUN, FUN, FUN! Hosting a workshop means getting together with your friends, having a great time, and discovering (or rediscovering) a way to express your creativity.
3. CONTACT ME TO HOST A WORKSHOP"

Refrigerator Magnet Note Books

Everyone loves notebooks and when they can be mounted on the refrigerator they are even better!

Here are two cute examples I designed following Mirabella De Rossi, from UStamp with Dawn, demonstrated a her beautiful little refrigerator notebook, during our recent session of UStamp with Dawn and Friends.

Mirabella loves butterflies, so when I designed my femine version of her notebook, I added some little butterflies from the Dreams Du Jour stamp set (page 99 of IB&C).

For the femine version the card stock base is Melon Mambo and Old Olive and the retired DSP Raspberry Tart were used as accents. I cut the "notes" letters from Old Olive cs using my Medium Sizzlit Die called Go-Go boots (page 197 of IB&C). A small notebook from the dollar store was covered in the same materials and mounted to the inside. A magnet was used on the back to mount to the refrigerator.

I used the Friends 24-7 stamp set (page 100 of the IB&C) set for my masculine version and Soft Suede card stock for the base. DSP used for the front cover trim and the booklet is from the retired Outlaw designer paper series.

To give this one some added interest I stamped the bird three times, twice on Vanilla cs and once on the base cs. I hand cut the two Very Vanilla birds and then mounted a full cut out on top of the base stamp and then a portion of the head, beak and wing to the Very Vanilla stamped piece using dimensionals. I glazed up the legs, beak and bird's eye with Crystal Effects. Before mounting each layer on dimensionals, I used a tip from a fellow stamper and using the new soft suede marker, I coloured around the each portion of the dimensional that could be seen if the bird is turned sideways. By colouring the dimensionals the same as the main image, the little foam pieces simply disappear. Neat trick eh?


I sponged the background of the soft suede with soft suede ink and used the medallion stamp for the piece of card stock withthe gold brads. I think this gave the card a very masculine feel.

The scallop punch was used on the Outlaw DSP to give the front of the notebook some additional dimension.

Goodie Boxes

How's this for a treat holder? This week on UStamp with Dawn and Friends Tracey Old the very talented Crew Team member from New Zealand shared her "Coffee Treat" gift box. What a winner? This quick to make nifty little box would make a great house warming gift during the upcoming Holiday season. To that end, I have designed my box to hold chocolate nuggets covered in last year's Holiday Treasures DSP and candy canes............ where's the hot chocolate?

The box base is made from Old Olive cs and the belly band again from the Holiday Treasures DSP. I used the "Just For You" sentiment from the Oval All stamp set and mounted it on Old Olive and Red Riding Hood cs punched out with the large oval punch. The same cs was used with the Trio Flower punch to add additional interest to the belly band and each of the chocolates. and finally SU's gold brad's were used for the flower centers to give a bit of added colour. All in all, this was a very quick and inexpensive gift to make, and I'm sure it will be a hostess pleaser.

Simply Scrappin Kits - Have You Tried Them?

How many of you have ever looked at the Simply Scrappin Kits shown in the Stampin' Up Idea Book and Catalogue, and passed them by because you thought "they're just for scrapbooking". I know when I first started with Stampin Up that's what I did, because I make cards, boxes and treat bags and do fewer scrapbook projects. Well, no more. During the last UStamp with Dawn session, I discovered just how versatile these beautiful kits are. This beautiful Criss Cross box and card set are a great example of what you can make in under two hours with just half of one of these kits. Now that's value! This kit called Sunshine Garden is now retired, but you can see other projects I've made with this same kit in older posts.

Each kit comes with 3 sheets of double sided 12 x 12 Designer Paper. You also get 2 each of four different coordinated pieces of 12 x 12 textured cardstock - that's 8 sheets of cardstock. And finally, 2 each of three 6 x 12 sheets of matching self-adhesive die cuts. All the bells and whistles with these ones.

All this for just $26.95. So what are you waiting for check out the kits featured on pages 164 to 167 of the 2009 -2010 Idea Book and Catalogue. You can use my on line ordering button to shop now, or click here. You'll be creating in no time.


If you're looking for the perfect sentiment stamp set to use with these types of cards, check out "Sincere Salutations" on page 143 of the IB&C. For just $4.00 a stamp (there are 8 in the set) you get a sentiment that is perfect for every occasion.

Sincere Salutations
115068 Price: $31.95
Use these simple stamps to celebrate and sympathize with those you love. Sometimes the short messages say so much.
Set Quantity: 8

Elegant Black and White

Last week I received this belated "Happy Retirement" card from a very good friend of mine. A simple design made by punching black and white circles with SU's 3/4" and 1" circle stamps. Random small flower images from the Greenhouse Garden set(113824) were stamped in black ink on 3/4" white circles. The Trio Flower Punch (109183) was used to stamp small flower images from black and white DSP and black brads were used for the centers. The medium sized floral stamp from the Fifth Avenue Floral set (113734) was stamped and embossed on Whisper White Card stock and the center was highlighted with dazzling diamonds. Although this card uses a retirement sentiment, it could easily be changed to honor a birthday or anniversary. I wish the picture could do this card justice, as it is truly well put together and very classy. Thanks my friend for the card and your well wishes!

Holiday Mini Catalogue

The Holiday Mini Catalogue begins today and is available until January 4, 2010. There are so many exciting new stamp sets and accessories to look at, you'll be amazed.

If you would like to have a catalogue of your own please contact me by email: pennyhanuszak@telus.net, and I would be happy to get one out to you, or discuss any product questions you may have.

Stampin' Up! - Hostess Promotion

"September 1-November 30, 2009 Hostess Promotion"

Stampin' Up is excited to bring you this sweet deal for hostesses September through November: Host a workshop totaling $330 or more and choose any one item* from the 2009 Holiday Mini Catalogue for only $14! *Offer excludes hostess sets and My Digital Studio.
After My Digital Studio is released, this offer will become even sweeter:
Host a workshop of at least $525 and get My Digital Studio for 50 percent off the retail price (retail price: $106.95; promotional price: $53.47)!"

Having a Great Day .............

What a day it's been! About 3:30 this morning our dog Murphy woke us up to say something was wrong............. and he was right. The power had gone off around 1:30am and had come back on again with the clock radio lights flashing and the house alarm beeping. What a dog! It's kind of reassuring to know you have a little angel looking over you. So we fixed the alarms and went back to sleep.

Around 8:00 while we were having coffee and watching the morning news, the power went out again. Since we couldn't do anything without the electricity in the house, we both headed outside and tackled some of our garden work that has been lagging behind. We finished that and the power was still out........... an hour has passed. So, nothing else to do we took Murphy for a nice long walk around the lake and neighborhood where we live. The power was out everywhere so it wasn't only us who were inconvenienced. If there was any silver lining to today's power outage, it was the fact that it's a grand day with the sun shining brightly and a light breeze blowing and no where to be in a hurry.

On our way home we picked up our mail and there was a package from Dawn Rapsas for me...............my prizes for having her blinkie on my blog and guessing one of the questions on the July 27th chat night. How exciting!!

Well that just made the day even brighter and so much more exciting......I wanted to rip the envie open right then and there but my DH suggested waiting until we got home. The with the suspense deepening we returned home. When we arrived the power had returned and all was back to normal. I opened the package as soon as I could and look what I got........... a full package of dimensionals, a beautiful package of Hidden Garden Rub-Ons and a Ribbon Measurer. Here's all my stuff. Thanks Dawn for making it such a great day after all!

City of David

Today while I was browsing through the fall 2007 Holiday Cards Volume 2 Paper Crafts Magazine, I was inspired to make a card using the retired City of David stamp set from Stampin' Up. Having recently acquired this stamp set, which I've always loved, I thought now's the time to get out the ink and get stamping.

The card and matching envelope above were designed by Dianna Halevy. I loved the card colours and how she used the 1 3/8" circle punch to create interest at the bottom of the card. The figures of Mary and David are stamped on the base card in Really Rust and then restamped on Very Vanilla cardstock and painted with More Mustard, Really Rust, and Sage Shadow inks. They were then mounted with dimensionals. This is my version of Diana's card. Hope you like it.