Lisa’s Creative Corner

Only a few more days for these great deals...

2012-01-28T09:39:00.000-08:00

There are only a few more days to take advantage of THREE amazing Close to my Heart promotions. Be sure to place your orders by January 31st to get these great deals...

January Stamp of the Month

Available January 1–31, 2011 only.

With a minimum qualifying purchase, get your D-size Stamp of the Month set for just $5.00 US / $5.50 CAN! Add the stamp set to your cart on this page at full retail price or, with your qualifying order, add it at checkout for the promotional price.

Spend:	$50.00	No purchase required
You pay only:	$5.00	$17.95 (full retail)

Set of 14

Recommended My Acrylix® Blocks:

1" × 3 1/2" (Y1002), 3" × 3" (Y1006), 2" × 3 1/2" (Y1009), 2" × 6 1/2" (Y1010)

Stamp images outlined in red coordinate with the Cricut® Art Philosophy collection (Z1686).

Click here to order your own Stamp of the Month

Rock the Block

When you place a minimum order of $25 from the Autumn/Winter 2011 Idea Book, you can get two valuable new products for just $15: the My Creations Collage Cubes (a Spring/Summer 2012 sneak-peek product!) and the exclusive My Acrylix Rock the Block E-size stamp set (available only during this promotion). This Rock the Block promotion represents a retail savings of almost $30! You're going to love the collage cubes and the Rock the Block stamp set, which work together for interactive, fashionable fun! But hurry, the offer ends January 31st.

Check out this great video showing the fun products in the Rock the Block promotion!

You can see what I did with my Rock the Block promo here.

Click on the shopping cart below or email me to place an order.

Free Studio J Layouts in January

January is free layout month for Studio J^® members! For every 9 custom-printed Studio J layouts you buy, you’ll receive the 10th layout free. To receive the discount, just add 10 or more layouts to your cart. You’ll see a discount reflected in your order total. And you can totally take advantage of this promotion by ordering in multiples of 10. Buy 9, get 1 free. Buy 18, get 2 free. Buy 27, get 3 free. And so on! If you’re not a member yet, now’s a great time to join!

Why should I use Studio J?

With the popularity and convenience of digital cameras, people take more photos than ever before. Unfortunately, many of those photos remain lost in cyberspace, tucked quietly away on a hard drive where no one ever sees them. Time to take those photos from the computer to the coffee table for all to enjoy!

One option is to pick your favorite photos and print them in a 4" × 6" size, then put them in photo albums. It’s a quick and easy way to put your photos on display, but there is one drawback—the stories behind the photos are lost unless you write them down. Even the most unforgettable moments lose some of their vibrancy over time.

That’s where scrapbooking comes in. Whenever you pair your photos with journaling—bringing together words and pictures—that’s scrapbooking in its most basic form. Scrapbooking helps you capture life’s moments, both big and small, so that you and your loved ones can enjoy them again and again.

For years, Close To My Heart’s classic scrapbooking products have helped you get your shoeboxes full of printed photos out of the basement and into scrapbooks where they’ll be seen and enjoyed.
Now Close To My Heart brings you Studio J^®, online design software that lets you skip the extra step of printing your photos before you scrapbook them. With Studio J, you create digital scrapbook pages that are then printed and delivered to your door, ready to slip into your classic 12" × 12" scrapbook albums.

You’ll love the ease and convenience of studio scrapbooking. And if you decide to become a Studio J member, you’ll love the way each custom-printed layout you purchase comes with free JPG files of the layout—one high-resolution version for archiving or printing more copies, and one web-ready version for you to email to your loved ones, upload to your blog, or post to Facebook. Plus, as a member, you also get free shipping once a month, and all of your layouts at half price! It makes sharing your photos—and your stories—easier and more affordable than ever!

To sum it up, Studio J Members get:

50% off layouts
Free monthly shipment
Members-Only Templates and Kits
Free JPEG files
Free Page Protectors
Special Members-Only promotions like this one

Give Studio J a try—there’s no cost until you place your order. Upload some of your digital photos and find out how quickly and easily you can create a finished scrapbook layout, preserving not only your pictures but the all-important stories behind them! If you like it, you can either order your layouts at full price or purchase a Membership for 3 months or 1 year, or purchase a 5 pack that includes 5 layouts, shipping, and page protectors.

Feel free to contact me if you have any questions.

I know that is a lot of information and you are probably wondering, “Hey where’s the creative inspiration?” Do not fear my friends, I have a fun project to share with you tomorrow. Plus, I have a big giveaway to announce! Stay tuned...

Papertrey Ink January Blog Hop

2012-01-25T16:39:00.000-08:00

I thought I’d participate in Papertrey Ink’s January Blog Hop. Here is this month’s challenge... “This month, in honor of the New Year, we are challenging you to pick your favorite project from 2011 and share it with all of us. To take it a step further, you are challenged to create a second card that is inspired by the favorite project you select. Your new version of an old favorite could carry over the color scheme, the layout or the stamp sets.”

I had fun making some cupcake cards last year and thought I’d make a newer version using Close to my Heart’s new Lucy paper (available in February), Bitty Buds Flower, and PTI’s Signature Greetings stamp set.

Here is last year’s version...

Email problems

2012-01-23T22:09:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone,
Just popping in to let you all know that I have been having email problems for about a week or so. I just found out that a few people have emailed me and I never got the emails and the emails never bounced back to them. So, if you have sent me an email over the past week or so and I haven't responded, I probably never got it. Sorry about that. Please email me again or post here and let me know that you are trying to get a hold of me and I will get back to you right away.

I hope have a few projects to post for you in a couple of days. (I have been swamped lately.)

Happy Monday! *Ü*
Lisa

Operation Smile, New Items for Sale, and a Giveaway Winner

2012-01-19T11:35:00.000-08:00

I have a few announcements to make today including...

A VERY worthy cause...
Everyone is invited to join in the Make a Miracle Challenge by helping raise funds to provide corrective surgeries for children around the world through Operation Smile^®. It takes just $240 to sponsor a surgery and change a young life for the better. If you are unfamiliar with the Operation Smile organization, you can read more about it here.

What an incredible honor it would be to win this challenge and have the opportunity to go on an Operation Smile international medical mission. The person who goes on the mission will work as part of the non-medical staff, alongside doctors and nurses, providing care for children, screening applicants, teaching parents, and assisting in every way in this important endeavor.

If you would like to make a donation, feel free to contact me or, you may donate online when you check out of the online shopping cart on my website here.

I am so proud to be associated with a company that supports such a worthy cause!

A Great Sale...
I added lots of great things to my “for sale” list here. Be sure to check them out and email me if you are interested in anything.

And if you like a great sale, be sure to check out the “while supplies last” section on my website here. There were some great goodies recently added!

And a Giveaway Winner...
And last but certainly not least, the winner of my Pair-a-Phrase stamp set giveaway is...Patrice. Patrice, be sure to email me at lisa@lisastenz.com with your mailing address so I can get your stamp out to you right away.

Thanks to all those that entered. Stay tuned for another fun giveaway soon. (My next one will be a big one!)

Clean & Simple Pemberley Card (Sneak Peek)

2012-01-17T14:56:00.000-08:00

Today’s card is another I made for the Clean & Simple Card Class. The class today is called “Plainly White.” I love plain white cards and had a blast making this one using one of Close to my Heart’s brand new papers called Pemberley and a new stamp set called Card Word Puzzle. I can’t wait to show you more when the new catalog goes live on February 1st. I think this will be one of my all time favorite stamp sets and all time favorite Paper Collections!

I stamped the flower on the Pemberley B&T and again on some vellum cardstock. I cut them both out and adhered them together in the middle with a dot of Liquid Glass. I love that it dries clear so you can’t see it through the vellum. I matted the Pemberley B&T with a piece of Cocoa Cardstock and stamped the sentiment with Cocoa ink. I adhered the matted square to a piece of PTI Stampers Select White cardstock with some 3-D Foam Tape. Finally I added the flower to the card with more 3-D Foam Tape to give it a tad bit more dimension.

Don’t forget to enter my latest giveaway here. I will be picking a winner on Thursday.

Rock the Block

2012-01-15T15:17:00.000-08:00

Sorry I haven’t posted in a few days. My MIL is visiting from Wisconsin and we’ve been busy entertaining her. *Ü*

I did have some time to finish my Rock the Block Cube Game, so I thought I would share it with you today. I used the fabulous Close to my Heart promotional Cubes and coordinating stamp set to make this fun tic-tac-toe/puzzle game with some family photos. My kids were playing with it before I even finished making it, so I know it will be a big hit in our house now that it’s finished. LOL!

I cut (4) 6" x 6" photos into 2" x 2" squares and adhered them to the blocks.

You can see the base of the cubes here.

I wanted to cut some Xs and Os with the Art Philosophy Cricut Cartridge to make it into a tic-tac-toe game, so I after cutting them out, I decide to add them to the blocks with a fun border. I love the borders that come in the Rock the Block set, so instead of masking them, which would have been totally easy to do, I actually cut the inside of the stamp out and just used the outline. I stamped the border on some 2" x 2" pieces of Roxie paper and then adhered them to the blocks. I also used some Roxie paper for the base of the blocks. This was actually a pretty quick project to make and I know it will provide hours of fun for my kiddos (and me!)

Would you like to get your very own Rock the Block stamp set and Collage Cube set? Simply place an order for $25 out of the current CTMH Fall/Winter Idea Book and you will qualify to get both the stamp set and the Cubes for only $15! (That's almost a $30 savings!) Feel free to contact me if you have any questions or you are welcome to place an online order here.

Art Philosophy Butterfly Card and a Giveaway

2012-01-12T12:19:00.000-08:00

I made this card for day 3 of the Clean and Simple Card class I am taking. Day 3 was all about inspiration. I was so inspired by Julie’s butterfly card sample, that I had to CAS it using Close to my Heart’s Art Philosophy Cricut Cartridge. (I love that “CAS” stands for Clean and Simple, but it also stands for Copy and Steal! LOL!) I cut two butterfly shapes out at 5" and adhered them together at the top to make the card base. Then I cut out three butterfly layers from some White Daisy cardstock and adhered them together. I cut one last layer out of some textured yellow cardstock and adhered it on top. I love the 3-D look without having to use any 3-D Foam Tape.

The CTMH textured cardstock that I used is retired now, but I still love it. (By the way, I have a TON of it. If anyone would like some, let me know. I have WAY more than I will ever be able to use.) The sentiment is from a CTMH promotional double set that is no longer available called Pair-a-Phrase. Do you like it? Guess what? I have a new Pair-a-Phrase set to give away. To enter, fill out the form on the giveaway page here. I will pick a winner using random.org next Thursday, 1/19. Good luck!

"FUN" One Layer Card

2012-01-10T20:25:00.000-08:00

Today is day two of the online Clean and Simple Card class that I am taking. Boy, the inspiration is incredible, both from the teachers and from the other students! Today’s class was titled “Perfectly Flat Cards” which are also referred to as OLC (One Layer Cards). These are my favorite, both because they are truly clean and simple and because they are a breeze to duplicate.

I chose to use Close to my Heart’s awesome Rock the Block stamp set that comes in the promotional kit this month with the cool My Creation Collage Cubes. (I will post my Cube project later this week.) Check out the details on this promotion here. It’s hard to tell in the photo, but I actually used Cocoa ink with Cranberry. It almost looks black in the photo. The card base is Papertrey Ink’s great Stampers Select White cardstock. When I make One Layer Cards, I like the cardstock to be nice and heavy and PTI’s cardstock is perfect.

Until tomorrow...

Clean & Simple With Love Card

2012-01-09T11:04:00.000-08:00

Can you believe two posts in one day? Amazing! I couldn’t get enough of this great sketch so I made another card. I used Tresa’s wonderful tutorial to make the faux stitching. (Gotta love CTMH’s white core cardstock!) And I love using my Piercing Tool Kit. The Blush cardstock is stamped with another Universal Backgrounds stamp in Blush ink. The sentiment is from the Say it in Style set.

Since I wanted my hearts to match the ink color, I used the brush side of my Blush marker to color a piece of Blush cardstock. Then I punched out the hearts using a small heart punch and added them with some 3-D Foam Tape. The monochromatic color was inspired by Kristina’s sample.

Stay tuned for more...

How sweet it is...

2012-01-09T01:43:00.000-08:00

Remember the classic James Taylor song “How Sweet it is...” Sing it with me...“to be Loved by You!”

Ok now that you are going to have that song stuck in your head all day (sorry), here is a little card I plan to give to my hubby on his birthday, which just happens to be on Valentine’s Day. *Ü*

I started the Clean & Simple Card Making online class today that I mentioned a couple weeks ago. It’s only the first day and I am so excited! Today’s class highlighted three great sketches. This was my favorite sketch of the three. Kristina Werner’s sample was incredible so I used a lot (ok almost all) of her great ideas on my card. I used Close to my Heart’s Kraft and Cranberry cardstock. The stamps, also from CTMH, are Universal Backgrounds and Card Chatter–Love. The tiny heart is an old punch that I had in my stash. I think it may have come from the dollar section at Michaels.

I am still in the midst of cleaning out my craft room, but took a much needed break to make this fun little card. Stay tuned for more clean and simple cards...

My New Year's Resolution means free goodies for YOU!

2012-01-07T14:05:00.000-08:00

Look what I got yesterday! Staples had a sale on the ClosetMade Cubbies that I have been wanting for a while. I was getting tired of my old cheap book case that I was using from my college days many moons ago. I still have a ton of stuff to go through and re-organize, but I am excited to fill my new cubbies. While I was moving my old book case out of my studio, I decided to get rid of LOTS of old magazines. There are so many great ideas in them and many of the pages are dogeared so I could go back for inspiration. But in keeping with my resolution to SIMPLIFY, I decided that I would get rid of many of them. I have a variety of Creating Keepsakes, Simple Scrapbooks, Scrapbooks Etc., Paper Crafts, Stamp It, and a few other misc paper crafting magazines.

I boxed them up in flat rate boxes and have five boxes up for grabs. Each box has a variety of least 20 magazines and some have more. All I ask is that you pay the shipping cost which is $10.50. They will go to the first five people who comment here that they want them. Make sure to either include your email address in your comment or email me at lisa@lisastenz.com. I will send you a paypal invoice and once it is paid, the box will go out in the mail. Or if you are local, you are welcome to come by and pick them up.

I know I haven't posted a lot of projects lately, but I promise that as soon as I get a little more organized, I will be posting crafty stuff again. Plus I have an order coming next week with few new projects that I can't wait to play with. Stay tuned...

Thanks for all of the interest in my magazines. They are now gone.

2011-12 Close to my Heart Retiring List

2012-01-05T11:53:00.000-08:00

These great Close to my Heart products will retire on January 31st. Be sure to grab your favorites while you still can...

Click here and add your favorite item #s to your shopping cart.

Paper Collections
Typeset Workshop On The Go (WOTG) Kit – G1024 - $29.95
Roxie WOTG Kit – G1025 - $29.95
Elemental WOTG Kit – G1026 - $29.95
Dreamin’ L2 Paper – X7142B - $9.95
Dreamin’ My Stickease – X7142C - $4.95
Dreamin’ WOTG Kit – G1027 - $29.95
Sonoma WOTG Kit – G1028 - $29.95
Mischief L2 Paper – X7144B - $9.95
Mischief Compliment Rub-Ons – X7144C - $4.95
Mischief WOTG Kit – G1029 - $29.95
Believe L2 Paper – X7145B - $9.95
Believe My Stickease – X7145C - $4.95
Believe WOTG Kit – G1030 - $29.95
Wonderland L2 Paper – X7146B - $9.95
Wonderland My Stickease – X7146C - $4.95
Wonderland WOTG Kit – G1031 - $29.95
Sophia L2 Paper – X7131B - $12.95
Sophia My Stickease – X7131C - $4.95
Mayberry L2 Paper – X7136B - $12.95
Mayberry My Stickease – X7136C - $4.95
Lucky L2 Paper – X7137B - $12.95
Lucky My Stickease – X7137C - $4.95
Fanfare L2 Paper – X7138B - $12.95
Fanfare My Stickease – X7138C - $4.95

Stamp Sets
Trellis – D1451 - $17.95
Backgrounds & Borders – D1463 - $17.95
Dreams Come True – D1470 - $17.95
Summer Days – B1375 - $9.95
Love Ya – D1460 - $17.95
From My Heart – C1443 - $13.95
A Love – A1103 - $6.95
So Lucky – C1390 - $13.95
Circle of Love – D1438 - $17.95
Soul Mates – D1254 - $17.95
Bless This Nest – C1445 - $13.95
A Little Buzz – B1353 - $9.95
Beautiful Butterflies – B1373 - $9.95
Ambiance – C1349 - $13.95
Springtime – D1415 - $17.95
*A Hop – A1112 - $6.95
Take Luck – B1364 - $9.95
Enjoy Every Moment – C1395 - $13.95
Beloved – B1343 - $9.95
Bunny Love – B1324 - $9.95
Carefree – C1447 - $13.95
A Paisley – A1105 - $6.95
Always In My Heart – A1101 - $6.95
Charmed – C1385 - $13.95
Togetherness – D1402 - $17.95
One Of A Kind – D1410 - $17.95
Blooming Layers – C1449 - $13.95
A Posy – A1102 - $6.95
Extreme Happiness – C1356 - $13.95
Friendship Blessings – D1191 - $17.95
Flower Pot – D1409 - $17.95
Smiles – C1397 - $13.95
Happy Moments – C1437 - $13.95
His and Hers – C1460 - $13.95
Tasty Treats – D1427 - $17.95
You’re Sweet – B1351 - $9.95
Recipe Box – D1364 - $17.95
Bon Apetit – D1367 - $17.95
Daydream – D1297 - $17.95
*Makin’ Waves – C1365 - $13.95
Cruisin’ – D1471 - $17.95
Down By The Sea – C1451 - $13.95
True Happiness – D1365 - $17.95
Summer Breeze – C1453 - $13.95
Treetops – C1368 - $13.95
Let’s Go Camping – C1355 - $13.95
Beautiful Things – D1298 - $17.95
Campin’ Fever – D1353 - $17.95
*Beary Best – C1363 - $13.95
*Beary Busy – C1409 - $13.95
Howdy – D1435 - $17.95
You’re Great – D1434 - $17.95
Hot Diggity – C1407 - $13.95
It’s A Zoo – C1360 - $13.95
Fun Times – B1309 - $9.95
Love Birds – C1396 - $13.95
*Over The Rainbow – D1426 - $17.95
Post Card – Travel Series – D1357 - $17.95
Horizon – C1454 - $13.95
Ciao – D1461 - $17.95
Thrill Ride – D1425 - $17.95
Retro Tech – C1446 - $13.95
Around The Block – D1377 - $17.95
Family Ties – C1346 - $13.95
Family Ties – Children – C1345 - $13.95
Family Ties – Pet – B1350 - $9.95
Family – C1305 - $13.95
Play Day (old set) – D1360 - $17.95
Believe In Your Dreams – B1322 - $9.95
Ms. Scrapbook – B1352 - $9.95
Ms. Chillin’ – D1404 - $17.95
You Rock – D1346 - $17.95
Catching Waves – D1466 - $17.95
X-Treme – D1432 - $17.95
Hero – D1474 - $17.95
Star Power – D1403 - $17.95
Tea Time – C1438 - $13.95
*Little Princess – C1414 - $13.95
Birthday Boy – C1411 - $13.95
*Birthday Blast – C1436 - $13.95
Shining Star – D1320 - $17.95
Royal Birth – D1441 - $17.95
Cupcakes Sprinkles – D1336 - $17.95
Piece of Cake – D1407 - $17.95
Paisley Praise – D1414 - $17.95
Sweet Baby – C1359 - $13.95
*Baby Love – B1368 - $9.95
You Did It – C1351 - $13.95
Adoption – A1098 - $6.95
Precious Love – C1444 - $13.95
Love Always – D1337 - $17.95
A Game – A1113 - $6.95
Magic Tabs – C1448 - $13.95
Circle Together – B1372 - $9.95
Just For Boys – C1338 - $13.95
Just For Girls – C1337 - $13.95
Cherished Flourishes – D1413 - $17.95
Unity – C1422 - $13.95
Two-Step Backgrounds – D1473 - $17.95
On The Edge – C1399 - $13.95
Circle Around – D1300 - $17.95
Connections – D1330 - $17.95
Adorning Corners – D1322 - $17.95
Fill In The Blank – D1465 - $17.95
Priceless Love Word Puzzle – D1348 - $17.95
Kanji Phrases – C1339 - $13.95
Boom! – B1354 - $9.95
Just The Ticket – B1323 - $9.95
Salutation Seals – C1461 - $13.95
A Little Everything – D1408 - $17.95
*For Every Occasion – D1187 - $17.95
Thank You – D1361 - $17.95
*TLC – C1364 - $13.95
In The Month Of February – C1403 - $13.95
In The Month Of March – C1404 - $13.95
In The Month Of April – C1405 - $13.95
In The Month Of May – C1415 - $13.95
In The Month Of June – C1416 - $13.95
In The Month Of July – C1417 - $13.95
Notice The Details – D1378 - $17.95
On This Day – D1468 - $17.95
Happy Holidays – D1431 - $17.95
Dream Big – D1399 - $17.95

Ribbon
Colonial White Ribbon collection - Z1126 - $7.95
Cranberry grosgrain ribbon - Z1103 - $6.95
Cocoa grosgrain ribbon - Z1100 - $6.95
Colonial White grosgrain ribbon - Z1102 - $6.95
White Daisy grosgrain ribbon - Z270 - $6.95
Wings Level 2 Assortment - Z1398 - $4.95

Floss
Embroidery Floss - Red/Pink - Z1092 - $3.25
Embroidery Floss - Green - Z1094 - $3.25
Embroidery Floss - Blue/Purple - Z1093 - $3.25

Waxy Flax
Waxy Flax - Cranberry - Z1086 - $3.95
Waxy Flax - Sorbet - Z1249 - $3.95
Waxy Flax - Juniper - Z1248 - $3.95
Waxy Flax - Crystal Blue - Z1247 - $3.95

Brads
Designer Brads - Colonial White - Z1274 - $3.95
Designer Brads - Pewter - Z1146 - $3.95

Mini-Medley & Eyelets
Mini Medley - Antiqued Copper - Z1275 - $4.95
Mini Medley - Colonial White - Z1276 - $4.95
Foundry Metal - Bookplates - Z1147 - $3.50
Soft Set Eyelet Tool - Z1208 - $14.95
Soft Set Eyelets - Black and White Daisy - Z1228 - $3.95
Soft Set Eyelets - Chocolate and Colonial White - Z1229 - $3.95

Coordinating Collection Embellishments
Midnight Felt Shapes - Z1462 - $3.95
Harvest Charms - Z1633 - $4.95
Holiday Packets - Z1486 - $4.95
Top Coats Icing Overlays - Z1468 - $4.95
Lucky Level 2 Assortment - Z1356 - $4.95
Lucky Level 2 Journaling Spots - Z1359 - $3.95
Bliss Level 2 Assortment - Z1355 - $5.95
Sweetheart Level 2 Assortment - Z1386 - $4.95
Fanfare Level 2 Assortment - Z1400 - $4.95
Just Blooms Spring Blossom - Z1266 - $7.95
Just Blooms White Daisy Variety Pack - Z1300 - $5.95

Color Ready Alphabets
Color Ready Alphabets - Oxford - X5749 - $3.95
Color Ready Alphabets - Hodge Podge - X1406 - $3.95

Dimensional Elements
Dimensional Elements - On Target - Z1226 - $5.95
Dimensional Elements - Flurry - Z1225 - $4.95

My Creations Items
My Creations - Board Book - Z1310 - $6.95
My Creations - Journal - Z1268 - $7.95
My Creations - Memory Showcase 9x9 - Z1198 - $5.95

Misc.
Rubber Brayer - Z616 - $12.95
Soft Set Eyelet Tool - Z1208 - $14.95
Eyelet Tool Replacement Punches - Z1245 - $2.95

Click the photo below to start shopping for your favorite

(almost) retired items before they are gone...

New Consultant Kit is available!

2012-01-03T08:20:00.000-08:00

Have you have ever wanted to turn your hobby into a lucrative business?

Would you like to get almost $300 worth of Close to my Heart products for only $99?

Do you want to get a great discount on all of your stamping & scrapbooking supplies for you and your friends?

Would you like access to new products a whole month before everyone else?

If you answered “yes” to any of the questions above, I am excited to tell you that the Spring/Summer 2012 Close to my Heart New Consultant Kit is now available!

Are you interested in getting a discount every day? I have team members that simply take the discount for themselves, others who have a handful of friends that they share with, and others who are actively building a business and a team to earn real income! I also have team members less than a mile down the road and some across the country!

Are you interested in any of those options? Contact me for more details. I’d be happy to chat with you to see if this would be a good fit for you!

Start off your year with a fantastic discount on great products that will encourage you to be proactive and productive in preserving your memories and celebrating the relationships in your life.

Have questions? - Click here for some FAQs about becoming a Consultant.

Want to know what is in the new Kit? - Click here to see the Kit contents.

Have more questions? - Click here to contact me with your questions.

Ready to sign up? - Click here to fill out the online application.

HUGE (and I mean HUGE) "Cleaning Out my Craft Room" Sale!

2012-01-01T23:49:00.000-08:00

As you may have read in my post last week, my motto for 2012 is to “Simplify!” What better way to start than by going through my craft room and getting rid of supplies that I haven’t used in a while (or sadly, some haven’t been used at all.) I simply cannot believe how much I have. I went through my stamp sets first and I actually have over 300 sets that I am going to part with. Many of them are brand new and many of them have only been used once. I am hoping these goodies will find a good home where they will be used and well loved.

I will continue to go through my stash and post more items for sale, so be sure to check back often. I still have all of my paper packets, embellishments, ribbon, albums, etc. to go through.

Click the “for sale” tab at the top of my blog to see what I have listed so far. There are waaaaay too many things to photograph, so if there is something in particular that you would like to see, shoot me an email and let me know. I will be happy to take a picture of it for you.

Happy Shopping!

January Creative Club - Valentine Box and a Giveaway Winner

2012-01-01T15:17:00.000-08:00

January’s Creative Club will be held on Tuesday, January 17th and Thursday, January 19th. We will be making this darling Valentine Box using the My Creations Cube. This would make a sweet gift for your significant other, your kids, or a special friend. You can fill it with all kinds of goodies including candy or other small gifts. The finished box makes a 5" cube. Each kit is $20 or $15 with a $25 order. (If you are not local, please add $5 for shipping.) If you would like multiple kits, each additional kit will be only $15 more and will not include a bottle of Liquid Glass. (The one bottle will last you a very long time.)

Each kit includes:

(1) My Creations Cube
(1) Bottle of Liquid Glass
(4) Dimensional Elements Hearts
Precut patterened paper from the Roxie Collection
(2) Pins and (3) Buttons from the Bling Assortment
Long distance kits also come with step-by-step instructions and pre-stamped images

Click on photo to enlarge.

Top of Box

Inside of Box

Contact me for more information or to sign up for this month’s class. Please contact me no later than January 7th if you would like to join us or order a kit(s).

Payment is due by January 7th. You may either send me a check before the 7th or pay securely online with a credit card or your PayPal account by using the PayPal “Buy Now” buttons below.

Starting January 1st, all classes will need to be paid for in advance.

Long Distance Kit(s) - $5 shipping will be added

To find out more about my monthly no-commitment Creative Club, click here.

You do not need to be local to participate!

And now for the winner of my New Years giveaway.....

Congratulations to Allie Gower! Allie posted on December 27th and said, “... I like to simplify my life by making time for what's important, and keeping those appointments with myself.
I try to get rid of anything that interferes with my life or raises my stress, whether it's a pile of nonsense, or too much tv. If it doesn't lift me up, it's time to put it down.” Great advice Allie! I really need to remember it all year long! Be sure to send me your mailing address and I will get the die cut cards and envelopes out to you right away!

If you are looking to simplify and organize your life in 2012 like me, be sure to check out all of the comments left on this post. There are some fantastic suggestions! Thanks to everyone for all of the great advice. I have taken lots of notes and plan to implement many of your ideas this year! Wishing you all a wonderful 2012!

2011 Favorite Projects

2011-12-31T11:41:00.000-08:00

As sad as I am to say good-bye to 2011, I am excited to see what 2012 brings! Looking back through some of my previous posts, I thought I would re-share a few of my favorite projects from 2011.

Anniversary Card

See original post here.

Simple Personalized Mini Notecards/Envelopes

See original post here.

Art Philosophy Floral Wreath

See original post here.

Cupcake Birthday Cards

See original post here.

Notes Desk Set

See original post here.

“It’s your birthday” Card

See original post here.

“The Sweetest Gift” Card

See original post here.

“A Friend is...” Card

See original post here.

Thanks to all of you who visit my blog. I hope you have a wonderful New Year filled with many blessings (and lots of creative mojo!) LOL!

Don’t forget to enter my little giveaway here. You have until midnight tonight to post a comment on your favorite way to organize and simplify. Be sure to check out the other comments so far. There are some great ideas!

Happy New Year!

FREE Studio J Layouts in January

2011-12-30T11:39:00.000-08:00

To sum it up, Studio J Members get:

50% off layouts
Free monthly shipment
Members-Only Templates and Kits
Free JPEG files
Free Page Protectors
Special Members-Only promotions like this one

Clean and Simple and a Giveaway

2011-12-26T20:14:00.000-08:00

My life has been so crazy and hectic this past year despite my attempt to simplify. So, my motto for the coming year is going to be “simplify.” (We’ll see how long it lasts. LOL!) Something that I have wanted to do for a while is to simplify the design my blog. I recently created a very simple blog header and changed the template. (If you are reading this post via Google Reader or from a FeedBlitz email, you won't be able to see the new design. You’ll have to visit my blog.) I’d love to know your thoughts. Is it too simple?

Another area where I seem to already gravitate towards simplicity is my design style. I recently signed up for an online class taught by some of my favorite designers, Jennifer McGuire, Kristina Werner and Julie Ebersole, called Clean & Simple Card Making. The class starts on January 9th and I simply cannot wait! (Pun intended. LOL!) Other than the awesome free CTMH Training Academy classes, I have never taken an online class before. In fact, I think the last class I officially took was an Advertising class when I went back to get my Masters Degree in the mid 90's. (I never finished. I got married and started a family instead.) Anyway, I hope to share some of my “class projects” with you over the course of the two week class.

Now for a fun little giveaway...If anyone has any great suggestions on how to simplify your life, I would LOVE to hear them. Please leave a comment with your best advice on simplifying (and maybe organizing) and I will pick one lucky winner to win a package of Close to my Heart White Daisy Die-Cut Cards and Envelopes and a package of Kraft Die-Cut Cards and Envelopes so you can create some clean and simple cards yourself. I will pick a winner at random on January 1st and announce it here on my blog. I will also notify the winner via email, so be sure to leave your email address.

I will leave you today with a clean and simple card that I created using Close to my Heart’s Art Philosophy Cricut cartridge and Cricut Craft Room. (If you are not familiar with Craft Room, you must check it out. It allows you to have more control over your Cricut images and the best part is that it’s free.) I used the font on the AP cartridge and welded the letters together in Craft Room. I cut it out of some White Daisy cardstock and added it to my card with some 3-D Foam Tape. I couldn’t find the perfect sentiment to fit the bottom of the card, so I used a retired alphabet set called Sans Alphabet. I love using alphabet sets to make whatever sentiment I want! I also added a tiny Cranberry Embroidery Floss bow as a reminder to count my blessings next year and to SIMPLIFY!

Here’s to a clean and simple New Year!

Cheers!

ETA on 12/27: Thanks for all of the feedback on the font. Since so many people were having problems seeing it, I changed it back to basic Arial. Thanks also for the GREAT simplifying suggestions. Keep them coming...

Papertrey Ink Blog Hop

2011-12-26T10:34:00.000-08:00

Papertrey’s monthly blog hop is a fun one this month. Here’s the challenge: “Your challenge is to use some type of leftover Christmas wrapping, paper, bows, ribbon, tags, cancelled postage, or other leftover Christmas materials to create a project. And if you really want to challenge yourself even further, you can try to create a non-holiday card from your leftovers.”

I took one of my daughter’s Christmas cards from Grandma (hope she doesn’t see this post LOL!) and cut out the adorable little cupcake. I knew it would be perfect for a clean and simple birthday card. (Check back tomorrow for a “clean and simple” post about 2012.)

I used Papertrey Ink’s Stamper Select White and Hibiscus Burst cardstock. I also used one of my most used PTI stamp sets called Mixed Messages in addition to the Everyday Button Bits set. I added a bit of Close to my Heart’s Glitz Glitter Gel and a little dimension with some 3-D Foam Tape. I also used my rectangle Nestabilities. It was a quick and simple card, but those are the ones I like best. *Ü*

Merry Christmas

2011-12-24T21:33:00.000-08:00

Click on the photo to enlarge.

Thank you for filling my 2011 with friendships, creativity, and blessings!

Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and a blessed New Year!

With Love,

The Stenz Family

Exciting New Products!!!

2011-12-24T09:12:00.000-08:00

I have some exciting news. I received my new Spring/Summer 2012 Close to my Heart Idea Books yesterday and let me just tell you...I AM IN LOVE! I cannot wait to share with you all of the amazing new papers, stamps, embellishments, and other fun surprises in the new book. Plus, my family photos are highlighted in THREE different projects in the book. Woo-Hoo!

I can't share the book with you until it goes live on February 1st, but if you'd like to get your own copies and order out of them a whole month earlier than anyone else, think about signing up as a Close to my Heart Consultant. Gaining access to CTMH products early is just one of the MANY benefits of becoming a Consultant.

Start the year off with a fun new venture and start your own business! Or simply sign up to save money on some amazing products for yourself and your friends. Click here to read more about joining this amazing company as a Personal Use Consultant, Hobbyist, or a Business Builder!

Remarkable Wreath Card from a Remarkable Friend

2011-12-23T06:00:00.000-08:00

Look what greeted me in my mailbox a couple of days ago! My sweet friend and upline Denise Anderson-Turley sent me this beautiful card along with a few other fun goodies. She used the Remarkable Wreath stamp set which is one of my all time favorite sets! Don't you love the Glitz Glitter Gel that she used on the wreath? It looks like she also used some Wings Level 2 Assortment Ribbon, the December Stamp of the Month, Foundry Pin Clips, White Hemp, Christmas Love, and some Kraft, Cocoa, and Vinyard Berry cardstock.

Thanks Denise! You made my day! xoxo

Peppermint Bark Snowflakes

2011-12-22T17:09:00.000-08:00

As many of you know, I am not very crafty in the kitchen, but I do like to make my neighbors something fun each year for Christmas. I have made them all kinds of fun gifts, but this year, being that I am running out of time, and I haven’t been feeling very well for the past few days, I opted for something quick and easy.

I found these cute Wilton's peppermint bark kits that included everything I needed: snowflake cookie cutters, dark chocolate, peppermint chocolate, melting bags, clear gift bags, gift tags, and even the silver string to tie them up. PERFECT! I bought 4 boxes of them and have actually been having fun in the kitchen today. Can you believe it? Me having fun in the kitchen! LOL! The chocolate melts very easily and I just piped the dark chocolate into the cookie cutters first. Then I put the tray in the fridge for a few minutes to harden them. Then I melted the peppermint chocolate and piped it on top, chilled them again for a few minutes and they were done!

I put them each in their own baggie and tied them with the silver string provided. I was going to make my own tags, but thought, “Why not just stamp on the ones that came in the kit?” I stamped the background first with a few small snowflakes from the Snowflake stamp set in Heavenly Blue. Then I stamped our own personal message on top in Cocoa ink. Did you know that you can order a personalized stamp that says anything you like? I ordered a stamp that said, “Merry Christmas ~ From the Stenz Family” and used it to stamp the tags. I actually cut the stamp and stacked the words on my block so they would fit on the tag. Can’t do that with a rubber stamp! I love my acrylic stamps!

One of my neighbors actually emailed me and asked for my peppermint bark recipe. I had to humbly tell her that it was a Wilton kit and that I didn’t make it from scratch. But I was thrilled that she liked it enough to ask for the recipe. *Ü*

Happy Crafting (and Cooking)!

Winter Memories Studio J Video

2011-12-22T06:00:00.000-08:00

"Catch" your winter memories with this chilly layout in Studio J. Watch the video below; then log in to Studio J and create a warm layout for your frosty memories!

Try Studio J's online scrapbooking program for free here. If you like it, contact me about getting your layouts at 1/2 price with free page protectors and free shipping! Have questions? You can either contact me or check out the Studio J FAQs online here.

Die Cut Snowflake Card

2011-12-20T06:00:00.000-08:00

I saw a really cute snowflake card here that I fell in love with, so of course I turned to my Art Philosophy Cricut cartridge and other Close to my Heart products to create my own version. I cut the snowflake out of a piece of 4" x 5-1/4" Kraft cardstock. Then using the Snowflakes stamp set, I stamped some small snowflakes with the White Daisy pigment ink. (By the way, the White Daisy pigment ink stamps like a dream on the Kraft cardstock!) I also inked the edges of the Kraft CS with some WD ink using a Sponge Dauber.

The sentiment is from the Christmas Love set and was stamped in Cocoa ink. Then I put the Kraft CS on top of a piece of 4-1/4" x 5-1/2" Heavenly Blue cardstock and stamped the large snowflake from the Snowflakes set in Cocoa and ink Crystal Blue. I added little dots of Silver Glitz Glitter Gel and one large Clear Sparkle in the middle. I adhered the Kraft CS with some 3-D Foam Tape and my humble version of Heather‘s card was complete.

Don’t forget about my big sale! Today is the last day to get 20% off of your Close to my Heart order! Click here for more details!

Happy Crafting,

Rock the Block Video

2011-12-19T09:26:00.000-08:00

Check out this great video showing the fun products in the Rock the Block promotion! Don’t forget that any orders you place through me today and/or tomorrow, will get 20% off! See yesterday’s post for details on all FOUR of my deals including those that will overlap for the next two days!

Click on the shopping cart below to place an online order
and/or email me to get your 20% discount.

TWO Days only - FOUR Great Deals!

2011-12-18T08:10:00.000-08:00

I am excited to share with you FOUR special Close to my Heart deals that will be overlapping for the next TWO days!

DEAL #1: As a special Christmas gift to you, I am offering 20% off ANY Close to my Heart order (no minimum) from Monday 12/19 (12:00am PST) - Tuesday 12/20 (11:59pm PST.) That's right, you can get as many Close to my Heart products as you like for 20% off, including the popular Art Philosophy Cricut bundle!* Be sure to either call me or email your order to me at lisa@lisastenz.com, so that I can place the order for you and apply the discount. Online orders will be charged full price.

DEAL #2: PLUS, when you place a minimum order of $25 from the Autumn/Winter 2011 Idea Book, you can get two valuable new products for just $15: the My Creations Collage Cubes (a Spring/Summer 2012 sneak-peek product!) and the exclusive My Acrylix Rock the Block E-size stamp set (available only during this promotion). This Rock the Block promotion represents a retail savings of almost $30! You're going to love the collage cubes and the Rock the Block stamp set, which work together for interactive, fashionable fun!

DEAL #3: PLUS, with a $50 order, you will qualify to get the Stamp of the Month called Mad About You for only $5!

DEAL #4: PLUS, I am including a FREE package of Winter Cheer Glitter Rub-Ons (retail value of $13.95) with every order placed through me during the month of December! So, this is the BEST time to order those Close to my Heart products that have been on your wish list for a while!

Not sure what to get with your 20% discount? Here are a few of my favorite products:

Art Philosophy Cricut Collection

Studio J 1-Year Membership

Workshop on the Go Kits

Distressing Kit

My Legacy Faux Leather Albums

Don’t forget that my 20% off sale is only good through

Tuesday, December 20th (11:59pm PST).

Be sure to either call or email me your orders soon to take

advantage of all FOUR of these great promotions at once.

Creatively Yours,

*20% discount is only offered on orders placed directly through me from 12/19 - 12/20 and will not be honored by the Close to my Heart Corporate Office or any other Consultant. Shipping will be charged on the retail price, however, tax will be charged on the discounted price. Club orders, Stamp of the Month, or the Rock the Block Promotion do not qualify for the 20% discount.

20% discount on orders placed 12/19-12/20. (Only available from Lisa Stenz.)
Rock the Block Promotion runs from 12/19-1/31.
December Stamp of the Month is available from 12/1-12/31.
Free Rub-Ons available with order from 12/1-12/31. (Only available from Lisa Stenz.)

Snowflake Tags - A "Happy Mistake"

2011-12-17T16:50:00.000-08:00

Have you ever created something fun by mistake? When I was in the midst of prepping my club kits a few days ago, I had placed some of the snowflake shapes that I had just cut using the Art Philosophy Cricut cartridge on top of some plain tags that I had also cut from the AP cartridge. (I tend to make a bit of a mess in my studio when I am prepping for my classes. LOL!) Well, I looked over and saw the white snowflakes on top of the white tags and thought, hmm.... I might have something here. So, I reached for some of the leftover Sky re-inker/water mixture that I still had in my Spray Pen and spritzed the tags. I removed the snowflake “masks” and then stamped the sentiment from the Christmas Love stamp set, and the simple snowflake tags were born.

The white snowflakes ended up blue, so I think I will take them and adhere them to a white tag and play a little more...

Quick and Easy Gift Tags

2011-12-13T14:02:00.000-08:00

I needed to make a ton of quick gift tags so I turned to my trusty Close to my Heart Art Philosophy Cricut cartridge for help. I love that there are lots of tag shapes on it and with the Cricut, I can cut them in various sizes super fast, and super easy. Here are four different sets of tags that I created in just a few short minutes.

The first set of gift tags uses three stamp sets. First I stamped the bracket shape from the retired You & Me stamp set in the center of the tag in Cocoa ink. Then I stamped it again on a post-it note, and cut it out to use as a mask. I placed the mask on top of the stamped image on the tag and the stamped the musical notes background from the Universal Backgrounds stamp set in Olive, Honey, Crystal Blue, and Cranberry. The sentiment in the center is from the Art Philosophy Seasons stamp set that comes with the Art Philosophy Bundle.

The next set of tags uses the A Holiday stamp set and the sentiment from the Holiday Cheer set. The border was stamped in Olive and then I dotted the berries quickly with the fine point of the Holiday Red marker. I added a little Cranberry Embroidery Floss.

This set uses the Glory to God stamp set, some Cocoa Grosgrain Ribbon and a square Clear Sparkle. They were SUPER quick and easy to stamp and I love how they turned out.

The final set uses the Holiday Commentary stamp set along with one of the ornaments from the Holiday Cheer set. I also used a Clear Sparkle in the center of the ornament to quickly add a tiny bit of bling.

I hope this helps give you some ideas for making quick and easy gift tags to dress up your holiday packages this season.

Thanks for stopping by today!

Creatively Yours,

For you local folks...

2011-12-12T17:36:00.000-08:00

Just thought I'd let all you local folks know about a great event happening this Thursday at the Wilson Creek Winery here in Temecula, CA. There will be a wonderful speaker, a yummy luncheon, and lots of great vendors (including me!) If you'd like more information, please contact me at lisa@lisastenz.com, or Debi at 951-551-4778, or Christine at cw4cwc@verizon.net. The luncheon is sponsored by Stonecroft’s Temecula Valley Women’s Connection.

Hope to see you there!

Blitsy Enabler Alert!

2011-12-10T19:54:00.001-08:00

ENABLER ALERT for all of you crafty peeps out there! There is a new online store, called BLITSY. Blitsy is a free members-only online shopping community that offers private, limited-time sale events with the best brands in the crafting industry for up to 60% off retail! Right now they are offering the pink ATG Guns for only $19.99 and the tape rolls for only $3.99. They also have Tim Holtz and Spellbinders products and so much more! The sales last only 7 days or until the items are sold out.

They also have a great referral program. When you tell a friend about Blitsy, and they sign up, then place their first order, you will receive a $10 credit in your Blitsy account! If you'd like to check it out, I would love it if you would use MY PERSONAL LINK to access the site. This way, if you sign up and order, I will get the referral credit.

Plus, they are having a HUGE promotion right now. They are having a race to 20,000 members! Their 20,000th member and the friend that referred them will each win a $200 Blitsy gift card! How cool is that! Here's a little video that explains the promotion.

Race to 20,000! from Blitsy on Vimeo.

They are just starting up, but I think this is going to be great! Be sure to sign up and then share your link with your friends! Ü

Click here to check it out and sign up for your FREE Membership and who knows, maybe you will be the 20,000 member and get a $200 Blitsy gift card!

Art Philosophy Stencil Cards and Glimmer Mist Recipe

2011-12-08T12:17:00.001-08:00

Did you know that you can use the negative part of your images from your Art Philosophy Cricut cartridge cut outs as well? I cut a tree, a star, a circle, and a snowflake using my AP cartridge and used the negative shape as a stencil. (I got the idea from the negative snowflake shape that was left over from the card I made here.) I simply placed the negative shape over some White Daisy cardstock and used the Universal Backgrounds stamp set to stamp either the musical notes or the text image on top. Then I used a Sponge Dauber to add a tiny bit of color before lifting off the stencil. I added a simple Christmas sentiment from the Christmas Love set.

If you have read my blog for any amount of time, you probably know that I tend to lean towards a clean and simple style. I liked the simpleness of the cards, but wanted to add just a bit of “something” so I pulled out my trusty old Spray Pen and a tube of Create-a-Shade Pearl Paint and mixed up a little homemade “glimmer mist.” I added about 3 blobs of paint and filled the pen with water. I shook it up and spritzed the cards a couple times. It is really hard to see in the photos, but in the sun, the cards have a beautiful shimmer to them. You can even add a few drops of re-inker to make your own colored glimmer mist. It is such a quick and easy way to add a bit of fun to any project!

Here's a close up of the images. The circle ornament photo is darker so you can see the shimmer a little better. It really does sparkle a lot in real life.

Don't forget to check out the Art Philosophy Blog Hop/Linky Party below.
Stay tuned for more Christmas projects. I have some CAS gift tags to post soon...

Art Philosophy Blog Hop/ Linky Party

2011-12-05T18:00:00.000-08:00

I have had LOTS of requests for more artwork samples using Close to my Heart’s awesome Art Philosophy Cricut cartridge. So, I thought it would be fun to host a blog hop highlighting some fun artwork using this invaluable cartridge. It will be a great inspiration resource for all of us who have fallen in love with this cartridge!

I will start by posting two projects made using the same shape on the cartridge. By pressing the Font Layer key, the Shift key, and the 3rd button from the left on the top row, I was able to cut out this great little tote with handles using Close to my Heart’s pretty Sonoma paper. Then I cut out a bracket shape at 2" from some Colonial White cardstock and stamped it with one of the coordinating stamp sets that come with the cartridge. I cut another bracket shape at 2-1/4" from some Smokey Plum cardstock and used it as a mat. The tiny 3-D flower was cut using the cartridge as well.

The next photo shows a little purse that I made by cutting out the same tote shape from another piece of Sonoma paper. To turn the tote into a purse, I simply cut off one of the handles and folded the sides in. Then I cut a different bracket shape from the cartridge and folded it in half. I adhered the back half of the bracket shape to the inside back of the purse and folded the front of the flap over on the outside. I added a Designer Brad to the flap. A small piece of Velcro keeps the purse closed.

As you can see, there are a lot of options by just using just 1 of the 700 different images on this amazing cartridge!

Now it’s your turn. Let's see what you have made...

The only guideline for this Blog Hop/Linky Party is that you use the Art Philosophy cartridge somewhere on your project. You can use any brand of paper, embellishments, stamps, etc, but make sure you tell us how you used the AP cartridge. The hop will be open for a week and will close to new entries on Monday, December 12th.

It's very easy to participate. Here are a few suggestions for you...

Make your post easy to find: Add your link to your actual post, not just your blog address.
Linky or Blog Hop?: You can choose to either add the code below to your blog post so that all of the great thumbnails will show up on your blog as well, or you can simply just add a link to your post and all of the other thumbnails will not show up on your blog. (My suggestion is to add the code to your post. It's great fun to see everyone's amazing artwork and your readers will love it too!) Make sure to explain on your blog that the criteria for this hop is to use the Art Philosophy cartridge on your project, and please link it back to my blog so your readers can get all of the details if they want to participate.
Link back: It would be great if you link back to the hostess.*Ü*
Spread some love: We all love comments, so make sure to visit some of the other posters and leave a nice comment if their project inspires you.
Have fun and get inspired!

Would you like to see even more artwork using the AP cartridge? Be sure to click the Art Philosophy link on the right side of my blog under the “Labels” heading or click here to see what else I have created using this great cartridge. (I can't seem to create anything without it lately and have lots to show for it. LOL!)

If you got this far and are not familiar with CTMH’s exclusive Art Philosophy cartridge, you are probably wondering, “What’s the big deal about this cartridge?” All I can say is that it is the most all-inclusive cartridge that I have seen. It includes 700 different images including boxes, bags, tags, banners, borders, a font, 100 different card shapes, envelopes, flowers (3-D and flat), and TONS incredible images that coordinate with CTMH stamp sets! The cartridge even comes with (3) exclusive D-size stamp sets and (3) sets of Dimensional Elements (chipboard) designed to perfectly coordinate with images on the cartridge.

Feel free to click here to see all of the images on the Art Philosophy cartridge.

Thanks for joining us! *Ü*
Creatively Yours,

Blog Hop info for Google Reader & FeedBlitz Subscribers

2011-12-05T13:00:00.000-08:00

I forgot to mention in my post yesterday that if you subscribe to my blog via Google Reader or FeedBlitz, you will need to actually click on the link to visit my blog to see the Blog Hop/Linky Party entries and/or add your own. You won't be able to see them in Google Reader or in the emails that FeedBlitz sends out.

Click here to visit my blog directly. (There are some great entries posted already!)

Tons of discounted clearance items just added!

2011-12-05T11:05:00.001-08:00

Lots of great clearance items were just added to my online store. Sweetheart, one of my all time favorite paper packets, was just added at an incredible price, along with the coordinating My Stickease and Level 1 Kit! The Wings Collection was added as well in addition to lots of great cardstock packs and accessories! But hurry, these items are only available while supplies last and will go quickly!

Sweetheart Paper Packet

(regularly priced at $12.95) - now only $5.00!

Sweetheart My Stickease

(regularly priced at $4.95) - now only $2.00!

Sweetheart Level 1 Kit

(regularly priced at $9.95) - now only $5.00!

Wings Paper Packet

(regularly priced at $12.95) - now only $5.00!

Wings My Stickease

(regularly priced at $4.95) - now only $2.00!

Wings Level 1 Kit

(regularly priced at $9.95) - now only $5.00!

Below are a few projects I made using these papers...

The journal and two pink cards below were all made with the Sweetheart papers.

The banner and butterfly card below were made with the Wings papers.

Click on the link below to start shopping for great clearance items.

(Remember, anyone who places an order with me or on my website this month will receive a free package of Winter Cheer Glitter Rub-Ons!)*

*This is a special offer only available to my wonderful customers and will not be honored by other CTMH Consultants or the CTMH Corporate Office. Rub-Ons will be mailed separately.

Christmas Everyday with Close To My Heart

2011-12-04T17:30:00.001-08:00

Do you love scrapping, stamping, cardmaking, and paper crafting in general? Do you love sales and coupons? Why not ask Santa for a $99 kit that contains over $280 worth of product? Not only do you get a great deal on the product in the kit, you get a discount EVERYDAY by shopping from yourself! (Click on the excited gal with her gifts below to order your very own kit today!)

As a CUSTOMER CONSULTANT, you will save LOTS by purchasing from yourself, have access to online training in products and techniques, and never run out of creative ideas! To remain active and keep your full consultant status and discount you only need $300 in sales each quarter (of which you get back 22% instantly PLUS FREE PRODUCT!) Many of us have NO PROBLEM spending that much on product we love and already use!

But if you DO need help reaching that level, simply encourage a handful of family or friends to help you stay active! Many of my HOBBYIST CONSULTANTS have full time jobs or commitments that don't allow them to work this opportunity as a business, but they love the hobby and get together with a group of friends each month to create, laugh, and get the sales they need to stay active. Keep the commission for yourself or invest in little gifts and freebies for your group OR pass on your discount to them. The choice is yours!

Are you looking for more than just a discount - like extra money or even long term income to replace a full time job or pay off debt or supplement college costs, sports, or other activities your kids are involved in? How about saving to treat your family to a vacation each year? How about earning a trip for TWO - including airfare - to an exotic location each year? Now that's what I'm talkin’ about! I have BUSINESS BUILDER CONSULTANTS on my team that are stay-at-home moms, retired, single, and even some with full time jobs outside of the home! They come in all shapes and sizes and customize their business to suit their needs! I'd love to help you set up a plan to reach your goal, whatever it is, so you can experience the many wonderful perks of being a Close To My Heart consultant!

Are you not ready to sign up for a discount everyday, but you KNOW someone who would LOVE this? Maybe a daughter, niece, friend, or neighbor? YOU can give this gift to them, or suggest to their family to give this as a gift!

Maybe you aren't ready to sign up for a discount everyday, but you'd LOVE for Santa to get you items you've been drooling over or you'd LOVE to get started in this hobby! I've got you covered too!

I have an open letter to your loved ones that will help. Simply print out this letter and give it to them, either with or without your wish list (download wish list here)...

Dear Husbands, Boyfriends, Friends, and/or Family of Crafters,

Since you adore your crafty loved ones so much, I am here to make your holiday gift shopping experience as painless and easy as possible this year. (Plus, your loved one will appreciate your gift that much more and wonder how you knew exactly what they wanted!) There are three ways to place gift orders for your creative loved one...

Have your loved one contact me ahead of time with a list of all of the wonderful Close to my Heart products that are on their wish list this year. Then all you need to do is contact me via email or phone and let me know how much you would like to spend on your gift(s) and I will place the order from the items on her wish list. They will get shipped directly to you and all you will need to do is wrap them and put them under the tree!
Give your loved one this wish list and have them fill it out and give it back to you. Then contact me via email or phone and let me know what you would like to order for your crafty loved one. Or better yet, you can place the order yourself online right here and it will be drop shipped directly to you.
Give your loved one a Close to my Heart gift certificate that she can spend any way she likes. Contact me with your dollar amount and I will send you a special personalized gift card.

Think about how quick and easy your shopping will be this year and how excited your loved one will be when she receives her gifts! (You will definitely score points with her this year! I guarantee it!)

Feel free to contact me if you have any questions. I am happy to help make your shopping experience as quick and painless as possible.

Creatively Yours,
Your Sanity Saver,
Lisa Stenz
Close to my Heart Independent Consultant

* To ensure Christmas delivery, place your order by December 12th.

Sonoma "Mad About You" Layout

2011-12-03T19:29:00.001-08:00

I believe this may be a re-post, but I wanted to share, once more, with you this layout I did a few months ago. I used the December stamp of the Month called Mad About You on it, which is finally available for you to order. (The great thing about being a Close to my Heart Consultant is that we get to order many of the products, including the Stamps of the Month, early. Sometimes I get ahead of myself and create things with products that are not available for you to order yet. The good news is that you can now order it!)

The December Stamp of the Month is a great set not only for Valentine’s Day, but for many other occasions as well. Plus, it has lots of images that coordinate with the Art Philosophy Cricut cartridge. The large bracket shapes, 3-D flowers, leaves, and small tags on the layout were all cut using the Art Philosophy cartridge. I really wanted to use the Sonoma paper for this wedding layout because it is so pretty and elegant. (You’d never know that I didn’t have any purple in my wedding at all. LOL)

The little crystal on the bottom under the flowers is from the beautiful Heirloom Assortment. I also used some ribbon from the Cocoa Ribbon Rounds. The faux stitching around the edges was stamped using the dashed line in the Circle Around stamp set. (I love that I can bend CTMH’s clear stamps to fit any shape I want. My faux “stitching” is actually created with a straight stamp!) To learn how to make these fun 3-D flowers, watch my how-to video here.

Here are a few more samples using the sweet Mad About You Stamp of the Month.

These were created by the CTMH Art Department. Aren’t they fun?

Below are all of the images in the set. The ones that are outlined in red are images that coordinate with the AP cartridge.

You can get your very own December Stamp of the Month for $17.95 or with a $50 order, you can get it for only $5.00! Think about all of the wonderful projects you can create with this set. Plus, don’t forget that I am giving everyone who places an order with me this month a FREE package of Winter Cheer Glitter Rub-Ons!* (No minimum order required for the free Glitter Rub-Ons.*)

Click here or contact me to order your own December Stamp of the Month.

Recommended Blocks:
1" × 1" (Y1000), 3" × 3" (Y1006), 2" × 3 1/2" (Y1009), 4" × 5" (Y1012)

SOTM is available December 1 - 31, 2011 only.

* Free Glitter Rub-Ons is a special offer only available to my wonderful customers and will not be honored by other CTMH Consultants or the CTMH Corporate Office.

A Special Gift from Me to You!

2011-12-02T10:44:00.001-08:00

I am so grateful for all of you who have helped my business grow this year. I am especially thankful for those of you who started out as my customers and quickly became my friends. Being a CTMH Consultant has provided such wonderful opportunities over the years, but the friendships I have made are priceless.

I have a special gift to thank those of you that place an order (of any size) with me this month. Anyone who places an online order, a Club order, or calls or emails me with an order any time during the month of December, will receive a FREE package of Winter Cheer Glitter Rub-Ons. Make your rub-on images sparkle and shine with these great Glitter rub-ons. Apply the sticky rub-on image then place the glitter transfer paper over the top and rub the special glitter onto your image. Great for snowflakes, ornaments, or anything needing a bit of glisten. (I used them on the projects I made here and here.) The package includes (2) 6" x 12" sheets of clear rub-ons and (3) sheets of glitter transfer paper in Olive, Twilight, and Silver and retails for $13.95, but is yours free with any order this month.

Thank you for your loyal business and most importantly for your friendship. Wishing you a wonderful Christmas, a very special Hanukkah, and a blessed New Year!

*This is a special offer only available to my wonderful customers and will not be honored by other CTMH Consultants or the CTMH Corporate Office.

December Creative Club - Believe "Jingle" Layout

2011-12-01T14:48:00.001-08:00

This month's Creative Club will be held on Thursday, December 15th and Tuesday, December 20th at 7pm. This month we will be continuing with our Christmas projects and be making a fun Christmas layout. (A huge thank you to Karen Pedersen for allowing me to use her super cute design! The super cute kids in the photo are mine though. LOL!) Not only will you have a pre-made layout ready for your photos on Christmas morning, but you will also learn some fun techniques and get lots of great products to use on future projects.

Each kit will be $15 or $10 with a $25 order. (If you are not local, please add $5 for shipping.) This is a great deal as the products that you will be getting in the kit are worth at least $15 on their own!

Each kit includes:

Precut patterend papers and cardstock
Precut snowflakes
(1) Package of (3) Holiday Felt Pockets
(1) Spray Pen
(1) Tube of Create-a-Shade Pearl Paint
(1) Bottle of Sky Re-inker
Dimensional Elements Chipboard letters to spell "JINGLE" (letter styles will vary in each kit)
Long distance kits also include step-by-step instructions.

Contact me for more information, to sign up for this month's class, or to order your own kit(s). Please contact me no later than December 5th if you would like to join us or order a kit(s).

To find out more about my monthly no-commitment Creative Club, click here. You do not need to be local to participate!

Looking for gift ideas? Studio J to the rescue!

2011-11-30T19:20:00.001-08:00

The gift-giving season can be an uplifting time of merriment and joy... but it can also feel a bit hectic. It’s nice to know you can count on Studio J to help you give meaningful gifts that don’t require a lot of time or money.

What is Studio J, you might wonder? It is the best online scrapbooking program out there. It is absolutely free, since there is no software, updates, or kits to buy. You simply log in and have access to hundreds of great layout options. You upload your photos add some journaling and your done! Or if you are a bit more creative, you can change as much (or as little) of the layout that you like. Then when you are ready to order your layouts, you pay for them online and they are shipped directly to your door!

Here are a few great Studio J ideas to simplify your life and save time for both the giver and the receiver.

Make one family layout and print multiple copies for everyone. (Time: 15–45 minutes) With Studio J, printing extra copies of a layout is as simple as changing the quantity on the checkout screen. Or, if you prefer, create one layout, then copy it into a new project as many times as you like and customize it for each recipient.
Give a Studio J 5-pack along with a Quick Pic™ album. (Time: 5 minutes) Since a 5-pack includes free layouts, free shipping, and free Memory Protectors, it’s everything they’ll need to create a finished album!
Present a loved one with a 3-month Studio J membership. (Time: 5 minutes) A 3-month membership costs just $30 and is the perfect way to help someone “get their feet wet” with Studio J and give them complete access to a product you love. Combine it with a 5-pack to make it an extra-special stocking stuffer!
Give a gift certificate for one-on-one Studio J training. (Time: 35 minutes) With Studio J, you can create two 2-page layouts in just 30 minutes. Give a gift certificate for a 30-minute session of one-one-one training where I can help them create two layouts. Once I’ve shown them how fast and easy it is to scrapbook the Studio J way, they’ll be excited to create more pages on their own!

So put on the holiday music, pour yourself some eggnog, and pull out your holiday gift list. Studio J is a great way to help you give the gift of memories—without taking much time!

Click here to try Studio J for free.

And the winner is...

2011-11-30T07:08:00.001-08:00

Thank you to everyone who entered my $100 Close to my Heart gift certificate giveaway! I was amazed that there were 462 entries! I assigned every entry a number and used random.org to choose a winner.

I am pleased to announce that the winner is...

Christine See

Congratulations Christine! I will be contacting you shortly to tell you how to claim your $100 in free CTMH goodies!

Stay tuned because I plan to have more giveaways.

(This was just too much fun to do only once!)

Have a great day everyone and thanks again for entering!

Cherish the Day Christmas Card

2011-11-29T13:16:00.001-08:00

I had so much fun making the Cherish the Day Anniversary Card for my hubby earlier this month that I decided to make another one for Christmas. I used the November stamp of the Month called Cherish the Day on both cards. I also used a retired set called Jingle Borders and a set called Snowflakes which is one of my all time favorite sets that coordinate with the Art Philosophy Cricut bundle. The glittery snowflake is from the Winter Cheer Glitter Rub-Ons which are on clearance right now for 78% off! I also added a Bitty Sparkle in the middle of the snowflake to add just a tiny bit more shimmer.

If you like the Cherish the Day stamp set, I want to let you know that tomorrow is the last day to order it. The full set is shown below. And it is also the last day to get the Holiday Wishes stamp set. If you order $50, you can get the SOTM for only $5, and if you order $25 in stamp sets (SOTM not included), you can also get the Holiday Wishes set for only $5! PLUS, both sets coordinate with the AP Cricut cartridge! How cool is that?

Cherish the Day - November Stamp of the Month

Holiday Wishes Stamp Set

Don’t forget to enter my big giveaway. The deadline is tonight at 11:59pm (PST.)

Last day to enter my HUGE giveaway!

2011-11-29T10:16:00.001-08:00

Today is the last day to enter my huge giveaway for a $100 Close to my Heart gift certificate! Be sure to enter by 11:59pm (PST) to be eligible to win. The winner will be contacted via email and announced on my blog tomorrow.

Click here for all of the details and to enter.

Good luck!

Wonderland "Printers" Tray

2011-11-28T16:56:00.001-08:00

Sorry I haven’t posted in a few days. I was visiting family for Thanksgiving and spending as much time with them as I could. (Plus my little guy was sick all week, so he was a little extra needy.) But I am back and ready to share a fun project that I just finished.

I made this wintery “printers” tray for a gift. Although I am not sure I can really call it a printers tray since it really is just a wooden shadow box. Believe it or not I found this great 7" x 7" shadow box at the Dollar Tree in the frame section. I painted it brown and used some scraps of Close to my Heart’s Wonderland papers inside each section. Then I decorated them with various CTMH products including some Winter Cheer Glitter Rub-Ons (which are on clearance right now on my website), Designer Brads, Pin Clips, Top Coats Icing Overlays, Cocoa Ribbon Collection, Basic Assortment Buttons, Chocolate Waxy Flax, Black Mini Medley Accents Collection, Heavenly Blue Ribbon Rounds (retired), and a few Bitty Sparkles.

This little snowman was my daughter’s idea. I had a piece of frayed Waxy Flax on my table and she said, “Hey Mommy, that looks like a snowman’s arm.” And so the snowman was born...

The little presents and the Noel ornament below are super glittery. It was hard to capture the shimmer in the photo. They are from the Winter Cheer Glitter Rub-Ons which retail for $13.95. They come with 2 sheets of adhesive shapes and 3 sheets of glitter, and the best part is that they are on clearance right now for only $3 on my website! They are really fun to work with.

Hope the recipient likes it. It didn’t cost very much as I used scraps and products that I already had on hand, though she doesn’t have to know that. Right? LOL!

Oh, by the way, did you know that tomorrow is the last day to enter my HUGE giveaway? All the details and the entry form can be found here.

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T07:34:00.001-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving!

I am so thankful for each and every one of you.

Blessings to you and your family.

HUGE Black Friday Sale!

2011-11-23T08:01:00.001-08:00

HUGE Black Friday Sale!
Great deals starting today - Sunday 11/27

I have had a few requests for a Black Friday sale and I am happy to oblige. In fact, I decided to have a Black Friday sale that lasts more than just one day! The deals you see below are good starting today, Wednesday, 11/23 - 11:59 pm Sunday, 11/27. So you have 5 whole days to shop and save!

Have you been thinking about getting a Studio J Membership? Have you been eyeing the Art Philosophy Cricut Bundle? Whatever is on your Christmas list this year, now is the time to get it! Check out all of the great deals below and email me your order no later than 11:59pm Sunday, 11/27 to take advantage of these great offers!

Place an order of $25 - $50
Receive a free Dye Ink Pad of your choice ($5.25 value.) This also entitles you to receive the Stamp of the Month for $5! If this order is $25 worth of stamps you will receive the Holiday Wishes stamp set for $5 as well!

Place an order of $51 - $75
Receive an A size stamp set of your choice, or a cardstock shade pack of your choice (up to a $7.95 value.) This also entitles you to receive the Stamp of the Month for $5! If this order includes $25 worth of stamps you will receive the Holiday Wishes stamp set for $5 as well!

Place an order of $76 - $100
Receive a free B size stamp set or Level 2 Paper Pack of your choice (up to $9.95 value.) This also entitles you to receive the Stamp of the Month for $5! If this order includes $25 worth of stamps you will receive the Holiday Wishes stamp set for $5 as well!

Place an order of $101 - $149
Receive a free Cardstock combo pack or size C stamp set of your choice (up to $13.95 value). You will also get a Cherish the Day Stamp of the Month for FREE! If this order includes $25 worth of stamps you will receive the Holiday Wishes stamp set for $5 as well! (This is a total value of $49.85!)

Place an order of $150 or more
Receive $25 in free products of your choice, PLUS either a free Level 2 Paper Pack or B size stamp set of your choice (valued at $9.95.) You will also get a Cherish the Day Stamp of the Month for FREE! If this order includes $25 worth of stamps you will receive the Holiday Wishes stamp set for $5 as well! (This is a total value of up to $70.85!)

PLUS, everyone who places an order during these five days will be entered into a drawing for your choice of a FREE Workshop on the Go Kit or a Magic Scrapbooking How-To Book! (Winner will be notified on Monday 11/28.)

Be sure to email me your order by clicking here.
(If you place the order online, you will not be able to get your free goodies.)

*Note: these are my own personal specials and may not be available from other Consultants.

Art Philosophy Pillow Box Basket Video Tutorial

2011-11-22T15:52:00.001-08:00

How’s that for a super duper long title? LOL!

I promised that I would make a video tutorial showing how to make the little baskets that I posted here. Well, I am happy to say that the video is finally done. It is not the best video, but hopefully it will help you understand how I made the basket. Here is another photo of the Christmas basket along with one that I made using the Dreamin’ paper packet as well.

Below is a link to the video. Enjoy...

In case you’d like to order the amazingly fantastic, super awesome, incredibly jam packed with great images Art Philosophy Cricut Cartridge Bundle, feel free to visit my website here. If you click on the link that says “Online Shopping,” you will find the Cricut Collection listed on the left.

Happy Creating!

Art Philosophy Believe Mini Tote

2011-11-21T19:34:00.001-08:00

I’ve got another fun Art Philosophy Christmas project to share with you today. I created this cute little mini tote using Close to my Heart’s Believe paper collection and the Art Philosophy Cricut cartridge. I used the bag with the handles image on the AP Cricut cartridge, cut the handles off and then replaced them with Cranberry Grosgrain ribbon. To cut the box, select the font layer key, the shift key, and the 3rd key from the top left. Once the box is cut, be sure to trim off the handles before you put it together if you’d like to have ribbon handles instead.

The flowers were also cut from the the AP Cricut cartridge just like the ones I cut on yesterday’s project. The little banner was stamped with the word “Hope” which is on one of the (3) stamp sets that is included with this cartridge.

Just imagine all of the different kinds of goodies you could put inside this little tote. Create a larger tote and you can include even more goodies. (That’s the beauty of cutting these images on your Cricut. You can cut them in any size you like!)

Click here to order your very own Art Philosophy Cricut bundle now or contact me to place your order!

Did you enter my huge November giveaway for $100 in CTMH products of your choice yet? Click here to enter. (If you win, you can even use the gift certificate to get an Art Philosophy Cricut Bundle!)

Also, don’t forget that you can get the limited edition Holiday Wishes stamp set that coordinates beautifully with the Art Philosophy Cricut cartridge for only $5 with a stamp order of $25 through November 30th!

Art Philosophy Believe Pillow Box

2011-11-20T13:47:00.001-08:00

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas! I have a bunch of festive gift boxes to share with you using Close to my Heart’s fun Believe paper packet, and of course the Art Philosophy Cricut collection. You can use the AP cartridge and coordinating products and paper to make tons of great gifty items for all of those hard to buy for people on your Christmas list this year. (Plus, you’ll save tons of money by making them yourself. Bonus!)

Today I am going to share this cute pillow box I made. I used the Sky colored patterned paper from the Believe paper collection and cut a simple pillow box using the AP cartridge. Then I used one of the awesome Dimensional Elements (chipboard) shapes that come with the cartridge to make the tag. I cut the same tag shape out of the striped Believe paper and adhered it to the tag. No scissors, Xacto knife, or sanding block were needed. Just a quick cut from the Cricut and the shape and size matched up perfectly. LOVE IT!

I inked the edges of the tag with some Chocolate ink and a Sponge Dauber. Then I stamped the scallop circle “Thanks” stamp from a set that comes with the AP bundle on another one of the Dimensional Elements shapes in Holiday Red ink. I cut two ticket shapes from the AP cartridge and stamped the “Thanks” ticket images from one of the stamps that come with the AP bundle with Chocolate ink.

The roses were made with, yes, you guessed it, the Art Philosophy cartridge as well. I simply cut a small 3-D rose from some White Daisy cardstock and inked the edges with some Holiday Red ink before rolling it. (To learn how to make 3-D flowers with the AP cartridge, you can watch my how-to video here.)

I added a bit of Cranberry Grosgrain ribbon to finished it off and my cute little pillow box was done. Can you believe that the entire project was made using the Art Philosophy Cricut Collection? This bundle comes with EVERYTHING you need including (3) sheets of chipboard shapes that all coordinate with images on the cartridge, (3) coordinating stamp sets, and of course the cartridge itself, all for only $99. If you don’t have this collection yet, don’t worry, you can still order it and get it in time to make all of your Christmas gifts.

Click here to start shopping now or contact me to place your order!

Did you enter my huge November giveaway for $100 in CTMH products of your choice yet? Click here to enter. (If you win, you can even use the gift certificate to get an Art Philosophy Cricut Bundle!)

Stay tuned for more Art Philosophy Christmas projects...

Christmas Boutique

2011-11-17T22:05:00.001-08:00

If you are local to the San Diego, Riverside, Orange County, Los Angeles areas, you are welcome to join us for our 5th annual Christmas boutique tonight, Friday, 11/18 from 5:30 - 9pm. There will be lots of great vendors with tons of great gift ideas! Click on the image below for more information.

I have been busy making a few fun crafts to sell at the boutique in addition to all of the great deals I will have on my cash and carry products. Plus there will be a FREE make and take project and lots of yummy food and great prizes!

Below are a few of the items that I have been making to sell...

These little altered clothespins were inspired by Nona Davenport and Amy’s Art from the Heart. I used the CTMH Art Philosophy Cricut cartridge to make the scallop rectangles and then folded them up to have something for the pins to clip to. (I tell ya, that AP cartridge has 1,000,001 uses!)

I resorted back to the tried and true nugget tins for this project, using one of PTI's great oldies but goodies called Holiday Treats. I use this set every year and always get compliments.

I have seen so many of these fun fluffy sock cupcakes lately and just knew I had to try some myself. I bought a TON of socks this year and those that don’t sell, will be well loved by me. (I am always cold, so I like to wear cozy socks.) They were actually pretty easy to make.

I made some cute little cupcake card/tags to attach to them using my Sweet Treats cartridge. (Yes, I do own lots of cartridges other than my Art Philosophy cartridge! I just don’t use them as much anymore because the AP cart has almost everything I need on it.)

If youwant to find the perfect gifts, while still enjoying what the season

is allabout, you won’t want to miss this great boutique. Comehand pick, design, or even create your gifts without crowds or stress! See you there!

Did you enter my huge November giveaway for $100 in CTMH products of your choice yet? Click here to enter.

Santa Heart Box

2011-11-14T10:00:00.001-08:00

Another project that I created for the class I taught at the CTMH Convention last summer was this fun Santa Heart Box. Of course I used the Art Philosophy Cricut cartridge. (Will I ever be able to make anything without that cartridge again???? LOL!) I used the adorable heart box shape by selecting the Font Layer key, the Shift Key, and the 6th key from the left on the top row. I selected the “Fit to Page” option for this project which cut it at 11-1/2"on a 12" x 12" piece of Cranberry cardstock. I scored the areas that it indicated in addition to scoring down the center of the front of the heart. (This gives the pocket more space so you can fill it with more goodies.)

I added a strip of White Daisy cardstok down the middle and added some black button brads from the Black Mini-Medley Accents Collection. Then I added a strip of black cardstock around the middle and used one of the ribbon slides in the Foundry Ribbon Slides Collection for the belt buckle.

This project literally took less than 10 minutes to make so it is a quick and easy project to reproduce. (Think gifts for teachers, co-workers, Secret Santas, neighbors, etc.)

Stay tuned for more fun Art Philosophy Christmas projects...

Did you enter my huge November giveaway for $100 in CTMH products of your choice yet? Click here to enter.

Topiary Repost using Cherish the Day Stamp Set

2011-11-12T08:40:00.001-08:00

This is a topiary that I created and posted this past summer. It was one of the projects I made for the class I taught at the Close to my Heart Convention. I wanted to share it again because I have had a few requests to see more 3-D flower projects plus, it uses a little hidden treasure from the November Stamp of the Month, Cherish the Day. (Did you notice the “Cherish the Day” sentiment in the stamp set?)

I used one of the awesome 3-D flower images on the Art Philosophy Cricut cartridge. (I will NEVER get tired of this cartridge!) I cut a bunch of flowers out at 3-1/2" and some at 4-1/2". Some of them were cut from Honey cardstock and some were cut from White Daisy cardstock. I inked the White Daisy flowers with Honey ink on the edges with a sponge dauber before I rolled them. Then I rolled each one starting from the outside going in and held them together them with some Aleen's Tacky Glue. Each flower was attached to a styrofoam ball with a pearl tipped pin.

I wrapped a wooden dowel with some floral tape and added it to the bottom of the ball. I put some more styrofoam in the bottom of the metal white container and stuck the wrapped dowel inside. A little Colonial White and Honey ribbon was added to the base of the ball to dress it up a bit.

CTMH has lots of fun new Mini-Medley Assortment packs. I used the metal plate in the Honey Mini-Medley Collection on the container. It was soft enough to bend so that it would fit nicely around the curve of the container. I stamped a sentiment from the November Stamp of the Month, Cherish the Day, and attached it behind the metal plate. Then I attached the plate with some Velcro so that the sentiment could be changed for different occasions.

If you’d like to see exactly how to make the 3-D flowers, check out the video I made here.

Did you enter my huge November giveaway for $100 in CTMH products of your choice yet? Click here to enter.

Cherish the Day Christmas Basket

2011-11-10T14:07:00.001-08:00

I made this little basket back in May when I was prepping for the Convention Class I taught. I was waiting to post it until I made a video showing how I made it. I don’t have the video yet, but I am working on it and promise to post it when it is done. I can tell you that I used the same technique that I used to make these cakes. The pillow box shape from the Art Philosophy Cricut cartridge can sure be used to make a lot of different things! You might be able to figure it out by watching the cake video, but if not, I will post the basket video when it is ready.

The Believe paper packet and the versatile November stamp of the month called Cherish the Day make this basket fun and festive. I LOVE this stamp set and love that it coordinates with the ticket shape on the Art Philosophy cartridge. (Did you know that you can get this stamp set for only $5? You can purchase it at full price for $17.95, or if you place a $50 order you can get it for only $5!) This is what the whole set looks like.

I finished the basket off with some stitched Sweet Leaf ribbon and tucked the “tickets” inside the bow. Stay tuned for the how-to video...

Did you enter my huge November giveaway for $100 in CTMH products of your choice yet? Click here to enter.

Cherish the Day Anniversary Card

2011-11-04T06:00:00.000-07:00

I am so happy that my hubby and I are celebrating our 11th anniversary today. I was at the store the other day looking at anniversary cards when I practically smacked myself in the head and said, “What am I thinking? I should make him a card like I always do instead of spending $5 on a store bought card.” So, this is what I came up with...

I used the November Stamp of the Month called Cherish the Day to make the “tickets.” I love that you can personalize them with whatever month and date you like. It is a fun set! I also love that it coordinates so nicely with the Art Philosophy Cricut cartridge. I cut the ticket shape and the hearts with the AP cartridge. (The heart stamp is from the upcoming December Stamp of the Month. Just wait until you see that one!) The text in the background is from the Background Basics: Text Style from Papertrey Ink.

I am off to spend the day with hubby. Hope you are able to spend the day with someone you love too...

Snowflake Card

2011-11-01T20:26:00.000-07:00

I know it's not even Thanksgiving yet, but I thought it would be fun to make a snowflake card to get me in the mood for the holidays. Although we don’t get to see too much snow here in Southern California, we do get to drive up to the mountains every so often to see the beautiful white stuff. The kids are already asking when we can go play in the snow again. *Ü*

I used one of the papers from Close to my Heart’s Wonderland paper packet along with a little chocolate cardstock and grosgrain ribbon. The large snowflake was cut using the Art Philosophy Cricut cartridge and was stamped with one of CTMH’s many coordinating stamp sets called Snowflakes. I just LOVE how the stamp set coordinates perfectly with this die cut shape! Using some 3-D Foam Tape, I adhered the snowflake to the card for a little dimension. I added a little bling in the middle from the Clear Sparkles packet and was done in record time. The sentiment comes from one of my favorite Christmas sets called Card Chatter - Christmas.

How about you? How are you getting in the mood for the holidays?

Did you enter my huge giveaway for $100 in CTMH products of your choice yet? Click here to enter.

Halloween Home Décor Project

2011-10-31T10:20:00.000-07:00

I wish I could take credit for this super cute piece of artwork. The CTMH Art Department actually created this using the Art Philosophy Cricut cartridge. The die cut circle shape has served as a mask to create a unique background using the spray pen. Isn’t that clever? They also used some Glitz Glitter Gel, Clear Buttons, Bling Assortment and Midnight Felt Shapes.

For more details on this project, visit Jeanette Lynton’s blog here.

To purchase the products to make your own home décor project, click here.

Don’t forget to enter my huge giveaway for $100 in CTMH products of your choice here.

Also, don’t forget that TODAY is the last day to get a free add-on collection when you order a New Consultant Kit by the end of October. More details can be found here.

November Creative Club - Petal Box Gifts

2011-10-29T10:35:00.000-07:00

This month's Creative Club will be held on Tuesday, November 15th and Thursday, November 17th at 7pm. This month we will be continuing with our Christmas projects and be making this great gift. It includes 2 boxes, 4 mini cards and envelopes, and 9 countdown to Christmas candies, all tied up with a bow and gift tag. This is the perfect gift for co-workers, teachers, neighbors, etc. Plus you will also get the stamp set that goes with it, so you can make more at home.

Each kit will be $15 or $10 with a $25 order. (If you are not local, please add $5 for shipping.) You are welcome to order more than one kit. Extra kits (without the stamp set will be $7 each.)

Each kit includes:

(1) Countdown Stamp Set
(2) Die-cut petal boxes
(1) Piece of Chocolate Striped Ribbon
(9) Chocolate/Peanut Butter Candies
Pre-cut imgaes/shapes
Long distance kits also include step-by-step instructions.

The smaller box on top includes (4) mini cards and matching envelopes.

The larger box on the bottom includes (9) Chocolate/Peanut Butter candies.

(So your recipient can "count down" the last 10 days until Christmas.)

Contact me for more information, to sign up for this month's class, or to order your own kit(s). Please contact me no later than November 6th if you would like to join us or order a kit(s).

To find out more about my monthly no-commitment Creative Club, click here. You do not need to be local to participate!

Don’t forget to enter my huge giveaway for $100 in CTMH products of your choice here.

Also, don’t forget that you only have a few more days to get a free add-on collection when you order a New Consultant Kit by the end of October. More details can be found here.

Only 3 More Days to get a FREE Add-On Collection!

2011-10-29T10:32:00.000-07:00

During the month of October, you can get over $400 worth of CTMH goodies for only $99.* That means you only have 3 more days to take advantage of this great promotion!

Sign up as a new Consultant between October 1–31 and receive one New Consultant Kit add-on collection of your choice FREE! Add-on collections are priced at $40 each and have a retail value of up to $130, making this an incredible deal!

For just a $99 enrollment fee, you'll receive a New Consultant Kit packed with business essentials and new products valued at over $280, plus a FREE add-on collection to enhance your kit! Then you can choose to buy one or both of the other add-on collections for just $40 each. It's an incredible deal!

If you love Close to my Heart products, there is a place for you within this amazing company. There is a place for everyone including the Personal Use Consultant and the Business Builder and everything in between.

Here are some links to some informative posts about this great special:

A list of reasons why you should sign up as a Close to my Heart Consultant TODAY! - Click here.
A little more information about me and my Team. - Click here.
What’s in the kit? - Click here.
Great Studio J savings as a Consultant - Click here.
Have questions? - Click here to contact me.
Ready to take advantage of this great deal? - Click here to go to the online application.

But hurry, you only have 3 more days to take advantage of this great offer!

* Plus tax and shipping. Value depends on which add on options you choose.

Holiday Wishes stamp set for only $5?

2011-10-27T12:39:00.000-07:00

Oh yes! You read that right. Starting today, you can get this beautiful D-size Holiday Wishes stamp set for only $5 when you place a minimum order of $25 in CTMH stamp sets* through the end of November. As a creative bonus, many of the images in the set coordinate with our Cricut® Art Philosophy cartridge for added cutting and stamping fun!

The images outlined in red coordinate with the Art Philosophy Cartridge. How great is that? Don’t have the AP Cartridge yet? No need to worry, you can add the AP Cricut bundle to your order and then qualify get the October Stamp of the Month for only $5 too! With both stamp sets and the sets that come with the AP Bundle, you'll be all set for your Christmas crafting!

Click here to start shopping now or contact me to place your order!

*Stamp of the Month, K-size customized name stamps, Cricut® Art Philosophy collection, and Workshops on the Go™ kits do not count toward a qualifying purchase. Offer valid October 27–30, 2011. Tax and shipping apply. You may buy one Holiday Wishes stamp set for every $25 in qualifying stamp sets you purchase.

Apple Camp - 15 Minute Studio J Layout

2011-10-26T21:44:00.000-07:00

I created this layout yesterday in about 15 minutes. It is super simple, but what I love the most is that I was able to choose whatever kit I wanted and change the color to match my photos. I know there is a lot of blue and white, but hey, it was Apple Camp. Right? LOL!

Click on photo to enlarge.

Are you interested in trying out Studio J? You’ve taken the photos—now keep the memories. In five easy steps, create beautiful 12" × 12" two-page layouts showcasing your stories. When the custom prints arrive at your door, slip them into your cherished albums. No one will guess it only took a few minutes to design them!

It is free to play with and there is no obligation to order anything. (Although you may want to after seeing how much fun it is and how cute your layouts are.) Click here to try it now. If you like it and want to order your layouts, you have a few different options...

Full Retail
Per two-page , custom printed layout $13.00
Shipping per box of up to 20 layouts - $5.95

Memberships
Save an amazing 50% off retail price by becoming a Studio J^® member. Only members receive free JPG files of their layouts with each purchased custom-printed layout and also have the option to purchase JPG files separately. JPG files come in both high resolution and thumbnail sizes to print, share, or archive. Membership comes with other perks like exclusive patterns, kits, and free Memory Protectors^®. On top of all that, members also get free shipping on one order per month that has a total of 4 to 20 layouts in the continental US.

Membership Options
12 month membership - $99
3 month membership - $30
Per two-page, custom-printed layout (includes hi-res and low-res JPEGS) - $6.50
Per two-page JPEG file only- $3.00
Minimum layouts per order for free shipping - 4

5 Pack
A 5-pack includes 5 two-page, custom-printed layouts, 5 Memory Protectors, and free shipping. Ideal for gift giving, or as an affordable way to try Studio J for the first time.
5-Pack - $55

Save even MORE!
Save even more by signing up to become a CTMH Consultant and getting an additional 22% off the 1/2 price cost making each two-page layout only $5.07! That’s only $2.54 per page! Plus until October 31st, you can get a FREE 12 month membership + 5 FREE layouts when you order the new Consultant Kit and choose the Studio J option as your FREE add-on collection. But you only have a few more days to get the FREE add-on collection.

Click here to try Studio J.

Click here for some FAQs about becoming a CTMH Consultant.

Click here to sign up today!

Click here to contact me if you have any questions.

Don’t forget to enter my huge giveaway for $100 in CTMH products of your choice here.

Also, don’t forget that you only have a few more days to get a free add-on collection when you order a New Consultant Kit by the end of October. More details can be found here.

PTI October Blog Hop

2011-10-25T11:30:00.000-07:00

I haven’t played with my Papertrey Ink stamps in a while so I thought I’d pull a few of them out to make something for the PTI Blog Hop today. The challenge is to create something that is inspired by the photo below. I used PTI’s Background Basics: Text Style, Polka Dots Basics, and Botanical Silhouettes stamp sets. I also used CTMH’s So Grateful and Damask sets. The Orange Zest cardstock is from PTI and the Olive cardstock is from Close to my Heart. I also used Orange and White Daisy inks from Close to my Heart. (The White Daisy pigment ink stamps beautifully on PTI’s cardstock.)

Don’t forget to enter my huge giveaway for $100 in CTMH products of your choice here.

Also, don’t forget that you only have a few more days to get a free add-on collection when you order a New Consultant Kit by the end of October. More details can be found here.

Leadershare Projects

2011-10-24T13:08:00.000-07:00

Here are just a few of the many projects that we made at the CTMH Leadershare event earlier this month. All of the projects were made using the beautiful Sonoma papers. The fun Cork Color-Ready Alphabet, Wooden Designer Buttons, Heirloom Assortment embellishments, the Love Life stamp set, and of course the exclusive CTMH Art Philosophy Cricut Cartridge were also used.

The great clusters of embellishments on this layout definitely make it more interesting.

I love the 3-D flowers we made that were cut using the Art Philosophy Cricut Cartridge.

This box was also cut using the AP Cartridge. We stamped the sides of the box with the cool pattern from the Love Life stamp set. I changed mine up a bit and added one of the resin flowers from the Heirloom Accessory pack to the center of the stamped flower.

We even made this necklace using CTMH products and a washer from a Home improvement store. How cool is that? My talented friend, Bren Yule has instructions on her blog here, if you’d like to make one too.

Don’t forget to enter my huge giveaway for $100 in CTMH products of your choice here.

Also, don’t forget that you only have a few more days to get a free add-on collection when you order a New Consultant Kit by the end of October. More details can be found here.

Happy Monday!

Creatively Yours,

Huge Giveaway Time!

2011-10-22T09:44:00.000-07:00

I decided that I don’t do enough giveaways on my blog, so I thought I’d offer a big one to make up for lost time. LOL! (I do plan to offer giveaways and host contests more frequently.)

How would you like to win $100 in Close to my Heart products of your choice? You can even use your $100 gift certificate to get the new Art Philosophy Cricut Cartridge Bundle! Just fill out the form on my Giveaway page and get (1) entry each for following my blog, “liking” and following my CTMH Facebook page, signing up to receive my monthly newsletter, and/or sharing a link to my blog on your Facebook page or your blog. It’s that easy! You can get up to (4) entries.

Click here to visit my Giveaway page and enter. Good luck! *Ü*

Faux Letterpress using Art Philosophy Cricut Cartridge

2011-10-20T19:51:00.000-07:00

I have always loved the simple, elegant look of letterpress. Although, as we all know, letterpress is a very expensive process. I have played around with various metal dies over the years and was happy to get a faux letterpress look at a fraction of the cost.

I was playing around today with some of the images that I cut using the CTMH Art Philosophy Cricut Cartridge and was pleasantly surprised that I was able to get a similar look using just cardstock and my Cuttlebug. I cut four 2" snowflakes out of CTMH cardstock and layered them on top of each other. (With both the shift and layer keys selected, press the last key on the top row to cut the snowflake image I used.) Then I played around with various Cuttlebug sandwiches until I came up with a good formula to use with the CTMH White Daisy cardstock.

Here’s my “recipe”:

C Plate
1 sheet of CTMH cardstock
Card base
4 die cut images lined up as perfectly as you can
1 sheet of CTMH cardstock
B Plate

Run your sandwich through your Cuttlebug and viola, you have a faux letterpress card for mere pennies.

Lisa’s Creative Corner

Only a few more days for these great deals...

Papertrey Ink January Blog Hop

Email problems

Operation Smile, New Items for Sale, and a Giveaway Winner

Clean & Simple Pemberley Card (Sneak Peek)

Rock the Block

Art Philosophy Butterfly Card and a Giveaway

"FUN" One Layer Card

Clean & Simple With Love Card

How sweet it is...

My New Year's Resolution means free goodies for YOU!

2011-12 Close to my Heart Retiring List

New Consultant Kit is available!

HUGE (and I mean HUGE) "Cleaning Out my Craft Room" Sale!

January Creative Club - Valentine Box and a Giveaway Winner

2011 Favorite Projects

FREE Studio J Layouts in January

Clean and Simple and a Giveaway

Papertrey Ink Blog Hop

Merry Christmas

Exciting New Products!!!

Remarkable Wreath Card from a Remarkable Friend

Peppermint Bark Snowflakes

Winter Memories Studio J Video

Die Cut Snowflake Card

Rock the Block Video

TWO Days only - FOUR Great Deals!

Snowflake Tags - A "Happy Mistake"

Quick and Easy Gift Tags

For you local folks...

Blitsy Enabler Alert!

They are just starting up, but I think this is going to be great! Be sure to sign up and then share your link with your friends! *Ü*Click here to check it out and sign up for your FREE Membership and who knows, maybe you will be the 20,000 member and get a $200 Blitsy gift card!

Art Philosophy Stencil Cards and Glimmer Mist Recipe

Art Philosophy Blog Hop/ Linky Party

Blog Hop info for Google Reader & FeedBlitz Subscribers

Tons of discounted clearance items just added!

Christmas Everyday with Close To My Heart

Sonoma "Mad About You" Layout

A Special Gift from Me to You!

December Creative Club - Believe "Jingle" Layout

Looking for gift ideas? Studio J to the rescue!

And the winner is...

Cherish the Day Christmas Card

Last day to enter my HUGE giveaway!

Wonderland "Printers" Tray

Happy Thanksgiving

HUGE Black Friday Sale!

HUGE Black Friday Sale! Great deals starting today - Sunday 11/27

Art Philosophy Pillow Box Basket Video Tutorial

Art Philosophy Believe Mini Tote

Art Philosophy Believe Pillow Box

Christmas Boutique

Santa Heart Box

Topiary Repost using Cherish the Day Stamp Set

Cherish the Day Christmas Basket

Cherish the Day Anniversary Card

Snowflake Card

Halloween Home Décor Project

November Creative Club - Petal Box Gifts

Only 3 More Days to get a FREE Add-On Collection!

Holiday Wishes stamp set for only $5?

Apple Camp - 15 Minute Studio J Layout

Full RetailPer two-page , custom printed layout $13.00Shipping per box of up to 20 layouts - $5.95

Membership Options12 month membership - $993 month membership - $30 Per two-page, custom-printed layout (includes hi-res and low-res JPEGS) - $6.50 Per two-page JPEG file only- $3.00Minimum layouts per order for free shipping - 4

5 PackA 5-pack includes 5 two-page, custom-printed layouts, 5 Memory Protectors, and free shipping. Ideal for gift giving, or as an affordable way to try Studio J for the first time.5-Pack - $55

Click here to try Studio J.

Click here for some FAQs about becoming a CTMH Consultant.

Click here to sign up today!

Click here to contact me if you have any questions.

PTI October Blog Hop

Leadershare Projects

Huge Giveaway Time!

Faux Letterpress using Art Philosophy Cricut Cartridge

They are just starting up, but I think this is going to be great! Be sure to sign up and then share your link with your friends! Ü

Click here to check it out and sign up for your FREE Membership and who knows, maybe you will be the 20,000 member and get a $200 Blitsy gift card!

HUGE Black Friday Sale!
Great deals starting today - Sunday 11/27

Full Retail
Per two-page , custom printed layout $13.00
Shipping per box of up to 20 layouts - $5.95

Membership Options
12 month membership - $99
3 month membership - $30
Per two-page, custom-printed layout (includes hi-res and low-res JPEGS) - $6.50
Per two-page JPEG file only- $3.00
Minimum layouts per order for free shipping - 4

5 Pack
A 5-pack includes 5 two-page, custom-printed layouts, 5 Memory Protectors, and free shipping. Ideal for gift giving, or as an affordable way to try Studio J for the first time.
5-Pack - $55