Birthday Gift Bag

Nothing in my book beats a beautifully wrapped gift for someone.  I think it really shows how much you care.  Last week it was my friend Linda's birthday and I had an opportunity to do just that.  

I had her present, and I'd made her a card, but I just didn't have the right gift bag for her new Infinity scarf.  What to do?  What to do?

I checked through my stash of Designer Series Paper found some that was relatively close to the colours I used for her card and quickly put together a beautiful gift bag for her.  

Here's What I made:

The gift bag and card were a big hit! 

The paper is from the Watercolour Wonder paper pack (now retired).  I matched up Calypso Coral, Cantaloupe Crisp and the DSP to make a gorgeous flower.

I added some white sparkly tulle that was cut in narrow strips and then  tucked in between the leaves and the flower.  The tulle shimmers and adds a whimsical look to the flower.  I'm so happy the Vintage Faceted Designer Buttons are back in this season's catalogue.  They are one of my all time favourites.  These glass like buttons add just the right touch to the center of this flower.  A large basic pearl crowns the center of the button.  

When I made the flower I staggered the petals so all the gaps were filled.  The cardstock petals were embossed with the Beautiful Baroque embossing folder and then I sponged all the edges to give them a darker hue.  I assembled the layers of the flower with a glue gun.  Tip:  To get rid of all those glue wisps that seem to catch on everything when you're using a glue gun, keep a hair dryer on hand and at the end of your project, just heat set the wisps.  Like magic they disappear.

I hope this post has inspired you to make gift bags of your own.  If you would like to attend a class and make a matching bookmark, gift bag and card, check out my event calendar for details.  I plan to do an August class.

Happy Stamping!
Penny Tokens

Demonstrator Resources and Support

Have you ever thought about becoming a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator but hesitated because you weren't sure what type of support you would need or whether you could host workshops and home parties?  Well you're not alone.  I think all the demos I've ever talked to have had the same concerns at one time or other. 

Stampin' Up!  offers lots of resources for their demonstrators such as Stampin Connection, a website just for demonstrators where we can share information and projects, a Video Library, Training Webinars and much much more.  

Recently a new resource was added called "Doctor Penny".  Doctor Penny is a free on-line resource for Stampin' Up! demos that accepts questions by email and can assist with just about any dilemma that may arise.  I answered a survey on Doctor Penny a few weeks back, and was rewarded with a full package of Watercolour Wonder Paper.  What a surprise and treat!

Becoming a demonstrator during a promotional time such as Sale-a-Bration is a great opportunity.  Not only do you get your free products and start up kit but it's an awesome time to take advantage of the sales with your own friends and family. 

If you'd like to know more about starting your own business or becoming a hobby demo just click here, watch the video and see the information that's available on my web site.  I'd love to have you join my team!