Time 2 b Creative

I'm Back .....

2011-12-30T22:53:00.001-08:00

Well it's been almost 3 months since my last blog and I almost forgot my blogger password...lol Putting in so many long days and hours working through the holdays didn't allow for any crafting time. I would sit at my table and just stare. I made a few Christmas cards, glittered up a couple gifts, but for the most part was just too stinken tired to do any serious scrapping. But the new year is right around the corner....literally.....Looking forward to things slowing down a bit and then I can start scrapping and crafting again. Even though I didn't have time to do any artsy stuff I frequented some of my very favorite blogs over the season and they kept me inspired and excited to get going again. Tomorrow being New Years Eve I am going to take the time to clean up my crafting area.

With lots of new pictures to scrap and more energy than I had a week ago I can't wait. Thank you to all my blog buddies for keeping me going. Can't wait to get back with my favorite challenge blogs and some new ones. Cuz its TIME 2 B CREATIVE !!!

Past and Present Mini Album

2011-10-03T21:34:00.000-07:00

Can't believe it's been a month since I last blogged. Where did September go ????? Well I'm back and finally finished my mini album. This was such a fun album to do and I have several interactive pages for adding journaling and lots of pictures. Hope you enjoy the slide show. Happy Fall.... xoxo Toni

It's the Thought That Counts

2011-09-02T22:35:00.000-07:00

In my earlier post I showed a gift I made for a friend of my daughter who has just become a teacher. I had some more G45 ABC Primer paper left from that project so I wanted to add a little something with her gift.
Awhile back I had purchased some of these little wood containers for a dollar at Michaels and they also had these little sewing kits for the same price that fit perfectly. I painted the box with Tattered Angels Glitter Glam "Stilletto", then covered the inside and outside with ABC Primer paper. Added some velvet and satin black ribbon to the middle. The rose was dipped in clear UTEE for a glass effect, and some vintage pearls from my Etsy s tore were added. Many times you don't have to spend alot on a gift for someone... check out those dollar bins at the stores and let your creativity flow.. You will be surprised in what you can make. TFL xoxo

Back To School

2011-09-02T12:14:00.000-07:00

Gingersnap Creations has a focus on "Friendship" for the month of September, and My Time To Craft is "Just Between Friends" and Altered Art is "Back to School" so my project was made for my daughters BFF. She just received her teaching credentials and has her first class of 4th graders this month... Whoo Hoo Miss Amanda.
I got this inspiration from Tara Orr's blog (an amazing G45 designer) and immediately knew it would be perfect for Amanda's desk.
Purchased this tin and pencils at the Dollar Store and painted the tin black. Used the G45 paper line "ABC Primer" and covered each pencil. The pencils were then glued to the outside of the bucket. Ribbon was tied around the pencils and a tag was made. Distressed the edges and embellished it with brads. A coat of Rock Candy crackle paint was applied for texture and to finish it off I added a Muse Token from Ideaology.

Tag Your It

2011-08-29T20:45:00.000-07:00

Well it's another page to my mini album finished, having so much fun making this album... The background paper is DCWV "Timeless" collection sprayed it with Lindy's Stamp Gang Glitz Spritz "Royal Peacock Fire".
I had this brown paper sack that I have been hoarding... just hate to use some of my supplies... and I cut it down the middle and made 2 pockets for tags. Diecut 2 tags and ran them through the steampunk texture fades then applied RubNBuff in Autumn Gold over the top. Used hemp cord for the tag tie and attached some jewels from my stash.
Using Distressed Ink Stain in Walnut I colored my grungeboard flourishes and then dabbed Perfect Pearls in Aqua for a subtle shimmer. Hope your inspired . xoxo

"ART" the key to my stress reliever

2011-08-26T10:00:00.000-07:00

Just finished 2 more pages to my mini album. The first one is a little fold out card attached to my black acrylic page. The precious steampunk image is from Altered Artifacts Etsy Shop and I just dressed her up a bit with I AM ROSES on her hat and added a mini grunge key with heart charm. The key on the front of the fold out album is Maya Road and I embellished it with gold embossing powder, then sanded it and ran Walnut Stain DI over the top. Attached ribbon and more I AM ROSES tiny rosebuds. The metal corners are from my stash. The fold out opens up very simply for pictures to be added with some pearl and rhinestone bling that I've had forever...
My second page is the paper background is from DCWV "Timeless" and I used a swirl stencil over the top and spray Lindys Stamp Gang Gold Gossomer over the top. Applied gold rhinestone brad for a bit of bling. Made a side pocket trimmed in black velvet ribbon and a layer of Rock Candy Crackle Paint over the top. Edged the entire page with Gold UTEE. Made tag using Tim's Tag diecut and ran it through flourish texture fade. Distressed the edges and inked with Black Soot DI and added tassel from my stash and token from IDEAOLOGY collection
So that's 7 pages done and 3 to go. See you later... xoxo

LIFE is full of speed bumps

2011-08-25T23:23:00.000-07:00

Awhile back I made this Art Angel and I would just like to dedicate this to all my artsy bloggers out their that are carrying a heavier stress load than normal.

Lately I have noticed on several of my crafty friends blogs that life is throwing them some curve balls. We all know this happens, it just seems like so many are facing health, financial or family situations right now. Many have dropped out of challenges due to overwhelming stress in their lives and even the design team I am on " Our Vintage Affair ", is having to take a break due to "stuff"going on in several of our lives. Arts and crafts to so many of us is our relaxation but sometimes situations do not allow for them.

It wasn't too long ago that I didn't have any desire to get out my scissors, inks, or paper. Kind of scared that maybe I was no longer interested in doing this thing called "art"I did notice that I always seemed to go back to visiting everyone's blogs and checking out the newest tutorials on YOUTUBE therefore I knew it was just a slump I was in. I am so grateful for bloggers I have gotten to know, and they always seem to leave a comment right when I need it the most. So when your too tired to do anything crafty, when you have absolutely too much on your plate to take a bit of time to paint anything don't fret. There is a season for everything, and know I am thinking and praying for all you wonderful artist that have inspired me and I know you will be back real soon.Hugs and kisses Toni

It's Time To Get Messy

2011-08-25T20:09:00.000-07:00

I finished another page to my canvas/acrylic mini album, and it's dedicated to Grundgy Monday #21 challenge which asked you to refer to T!m's awesome tutorials for "Transparent Illusions" (altering Fragments, Facets or Charms). I also dedicate this piece to Just For Fun Challenge in which their theme is "Black, White, Silver and Something Else". My something else is Copper.
I did the etching technique (awesome technique) on my black acrylic page and dry brushed the edges with white gesso. . Then I made a pocket out of acetate and Glossy Accented some #'s to the top. Next I used the Stained Imagery technique to made a little pocket watch out of a fragment, edged it with Copper UTEE and attached the chain.
In keeping with the theme of the page as pocket watches I decided to make a pocket watch folder to tuck away in the acetate pocket. I melted 3 layers of copper UTEE until very hot then pressed my rubber stamp in it for a textured image. There is room on the inside and back for photos. Added my clock hands and velcro tabs for closure. Lots of different techniques and lots of fun... xoxo TFL

It's Time to Alter Something

2011-08-19T15:00:00.000-07:00

This month at Alter is Monthly the theme is "Sirens, Mermaids and the Deep Blue Sea" and I decided to try a technique that I saw awhile back on Tim Coffey's YOUTUBE. I won't go into detail with each step but I did take pictures as I went. For detailed instructions check out his YOUTUBE.... he is amazing with the glue gun...lol (my finger is still numb from using it)....
STEP ONE... get a cereal box and prep it...
STEP TWO... paint entire surface with black paint and then a coat of white gesso
STEP THREE...choose your images, cut out and glue on your box
STEP FOUR.... outline your images using your glue gun... (I probably used 6 sticks)
STEP FIVE....cover with a coat of gesso
STEP SIX.... paint away ...... I used several different colors of acrylic paints, in which some I watered down and allowed to drip and others I dry brushed over the top. To cover in any little white crevices I then sprayed entire project with Lindy's Stamp Gang Moonshadow Spray "Treasure Island Aqua" and wiped off the excess. For the final touch I used INCA GOLD to rub over the letters and some of the raised portions of my images.
This was a fun project and I totally enjoyed the Journey...thank you Tim

Leather Iron and Brass OH MY

2011-08-19T14:09:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday everyone... I almost didn't get this challenge done in time... Gingersnap Creations theme is "Leather Iron & Brass". This is another page to my mini album that I am making and decided to create a gate opening using my Tim Holtz Steampunk On the Edge diecut. The paper is regular Kraft cardstock which was ran through the Alterations Texture Fades "Cogs and Gears" and then I applied the faux tooled leather technique from Technique Junkies "Emboss o r Die" CD. For a reasonable price you get quite an assortment of great ideas and techniques to try. I used seam binding to tie it closed. Embellished with some of my Ideaology goodies.
Before adhering this to the black acrylic board I decided to spray it with Lindy's Stamp Gang "Grab a Guy Gold" Starburst Spray. I wasn't sure how this was going to react to the acrylic but just let it dry completley and it creates a wonderful water drop effect with beautiful color and shimmer. Finished it off with some bling from Prima "Say It With Crystals" which can be purchased at my Etsy Store and another page is done for my book. Hope you enjoyed. Be sure to stop by Gingersnap Creations for a ton of inspiration.

In the Garden Triangle Box

2011-08-10T10:00:00.000-07:00

WOW .... 2 posts in one day.... that's BIG for me, but after all it is time for our August altered project from Our Vintage Affair and this month the theme is "Triangle". That means it can be a card, or box, or banner... just somehow involve a triangle... Let's get those creative juices flowing. But first, our regular sponsor for these challenges is a UK based store and the prize is a £20 voucher to spend in their store!!
Here is my take on our theme. I created this little triangle purse/box which has a mini album in it with lots of pictures of my first garden. The tutorial I followed was hosted by Pink Scrap per YOUTUBE .... thank you Carlene.
The paper I used is K&Co. Tim Coffey as well as the embellishments that match the paper line. My mini album I used T!m Holtz Tattered Floral diecut and cut out chipboard. I chose to alter only 3 of the pages as it really got bulky . The other pages are pictures of all my wonderful fruits and veggies that are growing in my garden YUMMMMM This challenge is open til August 25th. Hope this inspired you a bit and TFL

Wind Beneath My Wings

2011-08-10T09:30:00.000-07:00

Happy Wednesday all and one more page to my mini album is done and dedicated to Gingersnap Creations theme of "Planes and Trains". Background paper is G45 "Communique" and I found these wonderful vintage airplanes on Graphics Fairy website (wonderful place). I Mod Podged the planes to the background and then added my eyelets and for my lacing technique which I followed from Natasha Aguirre's blog tutorial, ( a must see blog, her work is extraordinary !)
Made a little accordian book to hold my pictures simply tied with twine. The diamond stamp is from Inkadinkadoo and I used black UTEE for some yummy texture. Two pages done and 6 more to go... hope you enjoyed xoxo Toni

Past and Present Mini Album (Cover)

2011-08-06T21:53:00.000-07:00

Well not sure how I let this challenge get past me this month, after all it's in the Steampunk genre which is one of my favs. I guess too many chores and not enough art time. Better late than never !
I have this wonderful little canvas and acrylic mini album (can be purchased at Studio Garage Band Etsy Shop) that I have been wanting to alter up. This album will be part of many blog posts as each page will be dedicated to the Gingersnap Creations themes this month which is all relating to machinery.
First up is "Gears, Cogs & Watch Bits". I used DCWV "Timeless" paper collection and ripped and tore and distressed up the paper for the cover hahaha. Then used T!m's gears and clock diecuts. Sprayed them with Terracotta Walnut Stain and ran some Black Soot DI over the top and wet it all down to make the inks run together. Randomly I embossed with Judikins "Rustique Tin Can" embossing powder. Painted the hands of the clock with metallic gold acrylic paint and heat set it till it started to bubble. Then finished off with a couple little gears and some bling (gotta always have some of that) and ta-da... cover is done... Now off to work on the next page which will be dedicated to their next theme which is "planes & trains". Hop over to Gingersnap for some wonderful inspiration !

Anchors Away Lucca

2011-08-03T19:49:00.001-07:00

This is my entry for Alter It Monthly which their theme this month is beach, ocean, shells etc. I purchased this frame on the clearance table for $2.99 @ Michaels and altered it up for a baby gift for a friend of mine that is a 1st time grandma...congrats Louise !!! (My dog Bubba had to get in the picture of course).
Lucca's nursery is decorated in the nautical theme therefore that sparked the inspiration for the frame. There is something special about a homemade gift so I hope they like it. I'm sure it will be perfect with the sailor hat and outfit I got him to have his picture in. God Bless you baby Lucca !!! xoxo Toni

A Little Birdie Told Me

2011-07-31T17:13:00.000-07:00

CANNOT believe it is already August. Where has this year gone ???? And to think I woke up in the middle of the night to a LOUD thunderstorm. All I can say is thank goodness for air conditioning.
It's that time for Our Vintage Affair's monthly layout and this month we have chosen the theme "Birds" the layout above has been provided for inspiration. Our sponsor this month isand the winner will get their wonderful collection of papers "My Friend Birdie"
Here is my design team inspiration...
I used paper from DCWV collection The Tradewinds collection and of course you recognized Mr T!m's birdcage diecut embossed with clear UTEE for a glossy texture. The flowers I used are from I A M ROSES cherry blossoms #153 and sprayed with Lindys Stamp Gang spray in Bachelor Button Blue and Blue Beards Blue Moon Shadow spray. The branches I used can be purchased from my Etsy Store Studio Garage Band. This challenge will be open til August 20th. Thanks for stopping by and hop over to Our Vintage Affair for some wonderful inspiration from the other design team members.

2011-07-19T11:03:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone and hope y'all have been having a chance to get your "Art On"... It's July Card/Altered Project time in Our Vintage Affair and the theme this month is Wedding. Our sponsor this month is . They are a UK based business and and the prize is a £20 voucher to spend in their store!!
My project is an altered heart box made for my parents. They just celebrated their 57th Wedding Anniversary (a miracle in this day and age)...
The shadowbox is from House of 3 which have some beautiful products. I first applied the crackle method to the box frame and then proceeded with the fun task of embellishing.
The flowers, black skeleton leaves and butterfly are all from "I Am Roses" and sprayed with Lindy's Stamp Gang "Pretty In Pink" Starburst Spray and leaves are sprayed with "My Mojito Green" Starburst spray. The "Say It In Crystals" on the front of the lid can be purchased at Studio Garage Band Etsy Store. Key hole is made from grungeboard and painted black highlighted with Antique Gold RubNBuff. This challenge will close on July 25th in which some creative crafter will win $$$ for new goodies. So get to work on something lovely for our wedding challenge. xoxo

My Father and Mother are Timeless

2011-07-06T18:55:00.000-07:00

It's July layout time at Vintage Affair and the following sketch was provided for your inspiration. The only request is that at least 1 flower is made my little o'l YOU.
Our guest designers this month are Gosia and Ana Brisas... take a moment to drop by their beautiful blogs and leave them some love.
This challenge is open until July 20th... so take some time from the heat, go inside to your cool crafty spot and make something beautiful to share with us at Our Vintage Affair.
The picture I chose of my parents was probably around their dating years... and I just adore these pictures. I used my die cut gears as masks and sprayed the background paper with my Lindys Stamp Gang Moonshadow Spray in Treasure Island Aqua for that aged patina'd look. Painted all my gears with black glossy acrylic paint. Framed the pictures with Prima "Say It With Crystals" Purchased at Studio Garage Band Etsy Store. Stained and hand crinkled seam binding with Moon Shadow spray also. And last but not least follow'd YouTuber Rina Ballerina's instruction for her take on Prima's Gatsby flower. Stay cool, go run through a sprinkler or jump in a pool... xoxo Toni

A Season For All Things

2011-06-27T21:40:00.000-07:00

I've been in somewhat of a funk lately... I mean a creative funk... y'all know what I mean. I stare at my craft table and nothing ignites. Doesn't really worry me because it has happened before and I know with me I just need to let my creativity simmer and then something or someone sends me into full steam ahead.

One of my favorite things to do for inspiration is blog hop or check out tutorials on YOUTUBE. I belong to a web based group called Creative Souls, where some remarkable artist share their passion for art and mixed media. They had this posted on their blog and it really intrigued my creative spirit. Maybe your going through the same. If so, hope this helps. If you are at a full steam ahead with your creativity then "Go Get Your Art On" !!!! xoxo

To Daddy With Love

2011-06-11T08:52:00.000-07:00

Hope everyone is able to get a little crafting time in to wash away this June Gloom.
It's card layout challenge time at Our Vintage Affair and this sketch has been offered and the technique requested is stamp your background.
The sponsor for this month is... which is generously offering 20 UK dollars to spend on product at their store. Some of the leading companies that they stock include Stamping Bella, Ranger, Tim Holtz, Crafty Individuals, Martha Stewart, Nestabilities, Copic Pens.
I decided to make a card for my daddy for Fathers DayMy father is a musician and plays many different percussion instruments, drums, timbales, congas so I went with this as my inspiration. The paper used was from DCWV "Performance". Stamped the background with gold UTEE.
Had some packing materials from Tim Holtz Ideaology and made shaker balls filled with gold German Glass Glitter.
This challenge will close on June 25th.... (wait a minute, whose birthday is that... mine hahaha), So go sit at your favorite scrapping spot and give this challenge a try!!! Until we meet again xoxo Toni

Shop Til I Drop

2011-06-07T14:23:00.000-07:00

This was a very fast and fun tag I made to match of to several blog challenge themes this week.
3 Muses theme is "The Written Word", and my back ground is made up of sales receipts of mine collaged, then inked with Vintage Photo as well as the play money which was inked with Brushed Sage which met the theme for Linda's Grungy Monday #10 "Distress Ink up something".
Gingersnap Creations theme this week is "At the Mall", and last but not least is Wednesday Stamper which has a theme of "Numbers". Thank you to the hostesses of these wonderful blog challenges.

So much time is involved in hostessing a "challenge blog". From organizing themes to posting comments on followers websites, but I truly appreciate all the challenges I am in involved with. Even though this one tag applied to several challenges each blog took me into a different direction with my art. If you haven't participated in a challenge before, give it a try. I have several listed on the right side of my blog. Sometimes we just need a little inspiration and one of these challenges might do the trick. Now go get creative ... xoxo Toni

Our Vintage Affair Blog Candy Winner and June Layout Challenge

2011-06-03T13:50:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone... wow where has the time gone... Can't believe half the year is already gone by. We've got alot happening at Our Vintage Affair this month. First this months layout theme is "GRANDPARENTS" and here is a template for your inspiration . The winner will win a spot as guest designer for the month of July and also some wonderful Prima & Websters product. Also it's time to announce the winner for my blog candy .

DRUM ROLL PLEASE ..........and the winner is SANDRA !!! Congratulations Sandra... please drop me a line with your address and then I can mail off this delicious blog candy for you. Thank you for playing with us at Our Vintage Affair and have fun being creative with your product.
Now my inspiration for this months theme "Grandparents" this is a rare photo of my grandfather and grandmother. Both I never had the opportunity of meeting.
My grandfather fled his responsibilities of husband and father when my mother was itty bitty (probably between 1 and 2 years old) . My mother grew up never knowing her father and probably just as well because her grandpa whom raised her like a daughter was a WONDERFUL daddy to her. Taught my mother so much. And then when my mother was 17 she lost her very best friend (my grandmother) from medical complications. I am so thankful that my daughter has been able to grow up knowing her grandparents. They have taught her so much and they are truly the love of her life. Now it's your turn. Go rummage through those old photos of your grandparents and do something beautiful with them.

Even Cowgirls Get the Blues

2011-05-24T20:58:00.001-07:00

This week at Gingersnap Creations the theme is "DENIM, RUST & DUST", so for my creation I dug into my treasures from a favorite junk store in my area. Got this old whiskey bottle for $1.00 and gave it a good wash with Ginger alcohol ink. Then stamped my image (from Oxford Impressions, Cowgirl Blues collection) onto tissue paper and adhered it to my burlap with Modge Podge. The tag is made from wood and inked up with Denim and Vintage Photo DI's then stamped with "Even Cowgirls Get the Blues" (from same stamp collection as image). Added some beads and crinkled seam binding and then topped it off with a bottle topper that can be purchase at Studio Garage Band Etsy Shop. For that added denim piece, cut off a pocket from a pair of old jeans.
It has been so much fun being a visiting artist over at Gingersnap Creations this month. There are so many talented artists that participate in this blog challenge. I would encourage everyone to drop by this blog for wonderful challenges every week. They provide amazing tutorials and they encourage you to use different supplies that you might not normally use as well as suggest techniques to try out. Thank you Gingers for your hospitality.

MOMENTS

2011-05-24T12:54:00.000-07:00

I am so thankful for my ART, because it can lift my spirits in a moments notice. This morning was kind of dreary and didn't really have that pep in my step so thought I would check out the theme over at Studio L3 with lovely Linda for Grungy Monday. Tim's techniques can always get me out of that funk. A really quick project but his watercolor technique washed that gloominess away. We all get really busy and overwhelmed, but sometimes all we need is that "Moment" for ourselves. Now I gotta go, cause my bubble bath is waiting for me. Hey it's ok to have more than 1 moment in a day...xoxo Toni

Spirit in the Sky

2011-05-18T10:02:00.000-07:00

As a visiting artist this month at Gingersnap Creations this is my contribution for inspiration for this weeks technique theme "Scene Stamping". This was a challenge for me as I am really not a "stamper", have never mastered the whole pressure and rocking and all that is involved in a nice crisp image, but hopefully you get the idea from my piece. My stamps were from Beeswax Stamps. The background was made using glassine paper and rubbing Walnut DI on the top lightly to give it that faux suede look. My image was stamped and then I used an assortment of Lindys Stamp Gang stains to color my picture. Added some fibers for texture in the sky; hence the title "Spirit in the Sky" and brushed a nice coat of beeswax over the top for a warm and aged effect.

On my right side bar I have most of the challenges I do participate in. I would encourage you to check some of these out. The talent of artist involved and the inspiration of themes suggested will open up a whole new world of art and creativity for you. Honestly don't think I would have ever tried the stamp scene technique, but really glad I did. Hope you enjoyed and thnx for stopping by. xoxo Toni

Hitching Post

2011-05-11T15:34:00.000-07:00

Howdy Y'all.. it's Wednesday and you know what that means... new challenge over at Gingersnap Creations. As part of being one of the visiting artists this month, here is my contribution for the theme "TWINE"....This little filly isn't picky. Whether it's a young whippersnapper, a city-slicker or an ol' coot, she's gonna wrangle herself up a man. The image was from Oxford Impressions as well as the sentiment, stamped and distressed on sticky back canvas. Sign was made from old pieces of wood and broken stir sticks. The ring was a dollar store purchase and rusted up a bit. Thanks for dropping by and sitting a spell. xoxo Toni

Our Vintage Affair May Card Challenge

2011-05-10T14:24:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone... happy May and it's that time of month for our new challenge at Our Vintage Affair. It's our card challenge, and believe me, this was a bit of a challenge for me as I'm really not much of a card maker, but right on time for Mother's Day. Part of the card challenge is to make a "napkin fold" card, in which you can view this wonderful tutorial @ StampARTic. And this months's sponsor for us is A UK based company and some of the products they sell are Ranger, Tim Holtz, Martha Stewart, Viva Decor, Copic Pens, Crafty Individuals and the list goes on and on. They will be offering you prize money to spend at their store. YIPEE . I really did have lots of fun making this card and here are a few extra shots of it: The card closure was made using flowers from "I Am Roses" and background is stamped and embossed with Lindy's Stamp Gang Mica Magicals. The card then pops open to display your message inside. Here is the card opened completely and I had a collage of myself, brother and baby sister copied and placed inside for my Mom. Drop by Our Vintage Affair to see what the other DT ladies created... Such wonderful inspiration, and give this card a try. xoxo toni

Love.... A Universal Language

2011-05-07T13:45:00.000-07:00

This must be the week for "hands" because three of my favorite challenge blogs have that very theme. Theme Thursday, Wednesday Stamper, and Simon Says Stamp. So this is what I came up with. I've had this wonderful old ephemera with sign language that I am so sorry but can't remember where I copied this from. It seemed fitting to dedicate this piece to the "Freedom Riders" 50th Anniversary. A brave group of Americans that help pave the the smoother road that we walk in today. Even though hatred and prejudice are still alive, they helped us to come a long way. I thank you and applaud you.

The paper I used was from my new stash of Tim Holtz Kraft Resist paper. I then used several different mixed media products:

The heart was made with Molding Paste

The frame was bright orange originally which I painted with black Gesso and then used Rub and Buff in Patina and Gold

The crackes of the corrugated cardboard were filled with Golden Glass Bead Gel in which I colored it with Alcohol Inks in Stream and Cinnamon

Then several of Lindys Stamp Gang products were used to give it that old vintage patina'd look.

Voodoo Violet Purple Starburst Spray

Magical Micas in Dark Chocolate Truflle, and Opal Sea Oats

MoonShadow Spray Treasure Island Aqua

Micas in Atomic Green Gold and Starlight Salmon

Thank you for stopping by....Wishing all the mommies in the World Much Love ,,,xoxo Toni

The Wild West at Gingersnap Creations

2011-05-03T20:31:00.000-07:00

I have the honor and privilege of being chosen as one of the "Visting Artist" for the month of May at Gingersnap Creations. A blog challenge that I frequent so often for art inspiration and tutorials.... there are some wonderfully creative people at GC.
So let's start the Hoedown Y'all... This month we're headed west ...... The Wild West. Yep that's our theme, and this week the technique we'd like you to do is "masking."My image was a stamp from Oxford Impressions from the "Cowgirl Blues". I used Tim Holtz "Weathered Clock" Alteration diecut and cut out my own mask using Ideaology Mask Sheets. Reckoned I needed to distress things up abit so I used Faded Jeans and Vintage Photo for the base colors and the images were stamped using Brown Timber Stazon. Whoa Nellie !!!! what's that I found but a bunch of old pieces of copper, so I did a bit of sanding on them and stapled some on the tag. And the clock hands were embossed with copper UTEE and then chipped off. Take time to mosey on over to Gingersnap for all the deets on this months challenges. for some unbelievable talent and exciting inspiration. xoxo Toni

Angels....help our garden grow

2011-05-01T23:02:00.000-07:00

Happy May Day to all and hope everyone is getting some sunshine in their little section of the world. Over at Our Vintage Affair it is time for the May layout challenge, and the following sketch is provided for inspiration to your layout and only one requirement this month and that is to use 3 different laces. This challenge is open till May 20th in which one lucky scrapper will win ........ Whoo Hoo !!!! Aren't you just loving those pretty flowers!!! My layout featured my two furry four legged children Bubba & Noelle out at our garden. It's our very first and we're so excited !!!! So far I've harvested some lettuce, strawberries, and a couple tomatoes (yummmmm). So much fun to be able to go outside and pick your veggies... In my journaling I listed everything that we planted and hopefully are going to enjoy!!! Take a hop over at Our Vintage Affair to see inspiration from all the other wonderful girls on the Design Team. I am also entering this into My Time To Craft Challenge, which happens to have a them "Perfect Pets" and well, mine are perfect . Lots and lots of entries for this theme so be sure to drop over there for more wonderful creative inspiration.

Thanks for stopping by, get outside and soak up some Vitamin D... Happy Creating!

ARTFUL BAG ATC SWAP

2011-04-29T18:42:00.000-07:00

This month at Artful Bag Challenge, it was ATC swapping time, and I was soooooo excited to get to trade with Julie Forest (from Juls Art Niche)... I am such an admirer of her work !!! The ATC, of course, had to feature a bag, purse, clutch, satchel, whatever you may call it. Julie's Atc was "Bold" and beautiful. (I can totally see me rockin a purse just like this...hahaha), and then Julie being so clever, added a special little treat. When opened, the purse exclaims "Walk on the Wild Side"... love it Julie... thank you! The colors are vibrant, and just pop!!!! My Atc I sent Julie had to do with Mary Poppins... I have ALWAYS loved her big carpet bag, and so I tried to copy that by making a purse using G45 Fashionista and paper transferred it to sticky back canvas. Spray painted a little umbrella and "SPIT SPOT SPIC AND SPAN, Practically Perfect" (well not sure about that) but Julie did say she enjoyed the ATC... very fun challenge. Great time meeting new friends from across the globe. Pop over to Julies blog for some awesome inspiration.

BLISSFUL ATC SWAP "Steampunk"

2011-04-25T19:10:00.000-07:00

(FROM EASTCOAST TO WESTCOAST) The theme for the month of April at Blissful ATC Swap was "Steampunk" and I had the pleasure of swapping with my crafty buddy from NY, Tina. She so creatively put together this wonderful steampunk ATC and sent in on it's way to me here in California. New to the whole world of Steampunk was Tina, and I think she captured the essence perfectly. Thank you for all the special little details you included. She even chose a favorite color palette of mine Red & Black, and if that wasn't enough she sent me a package of special goodies, which included a boxful of handmade flowers... yipee !!!!!

(FROM WESTCOAST TO EASTCOAST) Then off in the mail my atc went to Tina... a bit late due to a minor back injury and laid up for awhile.

Mine is titled "Wishing you many good hair days". I so enjoy meeting new friends that share the same passion for art as I do. What a blessing to be able to ispire and encourage each other on our artful journey. Thank you once again Tina for the special delivery!!! xoxo Toni

Our Vintage Affair "Pearl Layout"

2011-04-20T15:00:00.000-07:00

Hi bloggers and happy April 20th. It's time for April Layout @ Our Vintage Affair and the theme this month is "Pearls". The base paper for my layout was from our wonderful sponsor this month and the winner of this challenge will win their gorgeous collection of papers

The top layer of paper is a Prima Paintable in which I painted the roses and leaves dipping my brushes into Tattered Angels Glimmermists. The pearls were from my old stash of goodies and adhered to the layout. The flowers were also Prima "Craftables" and painted with the following colors: Coral Reef, Tiger Lily, Key Lime Pie, Olive Vine, Crushed Shells & Old Lace

Congrats to our Designer of the Month Jolanda... one very talented and creative lady. Take a jaunt over to her blog for some wonderful inspiration. And don't forget all the other challenges that are still open for participation this month: April Tag Challenge "Easter", April Altered Object "Easter Decoration" and also our 9 Candies that we are giving out to some lucky blog followers . So much crafting to do, so little time, so what are you waiting for go get messy ....xoxo Toni

Blog Candy over at Our Vintage Affair

2011-04-16T17:31:00.000-07:00

Everyone I know loves candy, but this is some special candy.... sugarfree, fat free, carb free & money free. Each designer at Our Vintage Affair as well as OVA put together a lovely bag of candy for 9 lucky winners... that's right "sweets for our sweet followers". How exciting... Here's some of the candy that is awaiting to be mailed off to some lucky followers:

To participate in this yummy giveaway jump over to Our Vintage Affair blog for the requirements and also to get our Blog Candy Badge to place on your blog. This is open til May 31st, and winners will be announced on June 5th. Happy Blogging !!!! xoxo Toni

Have a Hippity Hoppy Easter

2011-04-10T22:18:00.000-07:00

It's that beautiful time of year, when everything is coming into bloom and we have the gorgeous sunshine. It's time for our April Tag Challenge over at Our Vintage Affair and the theme is.... yep you guessed it "Easter".

Only a couple rules, must be a tag and must include the following image. Our sponsor this month is and the winner of this challenge wins their newest collection of paper goodies On my tag, I ran my bunnies through my Xyron machine and then Diamond Dust was applied for an old vintage crystal effect. Flower Soft was used on the fence for the grass and I Am Roses flowers were sprayed with Tattered Angels Glimmermist "Watermelon".

There is still time to participate in the following challenges we have open which are:

March Altered Item "Kitchen" (open til April 20th)

April Altered Challenge "Easter Decoration" (open til May 1st).

Take a moment and hippity hop over to Our Vintage Affair to view all the other DT creations for inspiration and enjoy making your Easter tag. xoxo Toni

Your That Missing Piece of Puzzle

2011-04-04T16:58:00.000-07:00

Tanya Tucker sings this song called "Your That Missing Piece of Puzzle" and it fits how I feel about my daughter. I really don't think my life would be complete without her and everyday I thank God for his gift to me. Theme Thursday challenge this week is "game puzzle piece" so I thought I would just make my entire project a puzzle. Took a photo of my daughter and myself and applied it to a lightweight piece of chipboard. Sprayed photo with Lindy's Stamp Gang Moonshadow Spray in Treasure Island Aqua. Used a puzzle template I found on Google and traced it on my photo then cut out the puzzle pieces. Attached the pieces to black card stock with Goldens Matt Medium and coated the top with beeswax. The edging of the black card stock was embossed with Lindy's Stamp Gang 2 Tone Embossing Powder in "Fiddlehead Fern Green Blue". Thank you for dropping by... smiles and hugs Toni

Altered Easter Decorations

2011-04-01T20:58:00.000-07:00

Happy April everyone, and it's time for our Altered Project over at Our Vintage Affair. This month our sponsor is and the prize for the winner this month is this beautiful collection of paper and embellishments The theme is "Easter Decoration" and I got a bit carried away. Had so much fun I made three.

I purchased this little tin bird house at Michaels Craft Store for $ 1 and aged it using Tim Holtz's "chipped enamel" technique then rubbed Gold Metallic Alcohol Ink wherever I chipped the paint off. Added vintage tinsel for the nest. Added flowers from "I Am Roses", ribbon from my stash and this wonderful aged magnetic bird. Next, I purchased a package of paper mache eggs from Michaels Crafts I believe they were $3 for 6 eggs. The technique I used here is the "glue crackle" technique. Added ribbon, some little dry flowers (not sure where I got them), vintage stamens, and flowers from "I Am Roses". Last but not least is my my other egg that I blinged up with several different colors of German Glass Glitter. I think this will look real pretty once it starts to tarnish. I hope you enjoyed and wishing everyone a Blessed Easter. xoxo Toni

Help Hudson !

2011-03-30T09:20:00.000-07:00

Happy Wednesday everyone ! Well it's premier week for Grungy Monday challenge over at lovely Linda's blog. For all you T!m Holtz lovers this week the technique is "12 Tags of Christmas 2008, Tag 10". Jump over to see the deets on the technique and give it a try. In my opinion (and a million others) Tim's techniques are priceless and opened up a whole new world for me in mixed media. If you are one that is a bit hesitant on getting your fingers dirty but for some reason are really drawn to it, Tim is your man. He not only gives you permission to get messy, he pushes you right in the puddle of paint. Give it a try !This tag I created is also going out for 3 Muses which never disappoints on their themes. This week it is "Steampunkerie". Yes, these gents do seem to be having a bit of attitude amongst the mayhem.Some of the products I used on this was Perfect Pearls Blue Patina, Oxford Impression stamp collection "Steampunk Elements" and some embellishments from the Tim's Ideology collection. Now what are you waiting for, go get creative and have fun . xoxo Toni

Hang In There

2011-03-29T09:10:00.000-07:00

Collage Obsession provided an image this week if we wanted to use it and the theme was "Lazy Days", but of course I went in a different direction with this photo. This was so much fun because I made a huge mess, paper and gesso and fibers all over the place.

Ursula (pictured here) is trying to lift someones spirit... hummm... well you know what I mean. Well I hope she lifted yours. Thanks for looking :)

xoxo Toni

Keeping it Simple

2011-03-28T11:59:00.001-07:00

Sunday Postcard Art challenge has a theme this week of "WHITE". This was really fun for me because I just love the pureness that white gives to a creation. This project was pretty simple but I think effective.

Using recycled cardboard I applied PK GLITZ White Pearl Embossing Powder. I then took a Tim Holtz Texture Fade "Postcard" and rubbed DI Pumice Stone all over the embossed side of the Texture Fade and ran my cardboard through the diecut machine. This left the embossed letters with just a hint of shadowing.

Altered my butterfly embellishment by covering it with white embossing enamel and then once cooled chipped away at it. A technique that Mr Tim shared in his wonderful book Compendium of Curiosities (love this book). Rubbed some white paint on top of my muse token to enhance the word "Simplify" and all finished. Hope you enjoyed xoxo Toni

It's All About Him

2011-03-26T15:45:00.000-07:00

Happy 3rd Birthday Gingersnap Creations, and for their birthday theme it's "Copper, Ginger or Rust". I'm also entering this for Drunken Stampers challenge which is "All About Him". I used several products that I would like to give a shout out to. First, the background was created by smudging Black Soot DI all over it and then applying PK Glitz embossing powders in New England Autumn and Bronze Patina (PK's products are my very favorite glitters and embossing powders). Then just here and there I added UTEE in Copper. Used an old script stamp (can't remember where I got it). For the background colors of the picture I used Lindy's Stamp Gang MoonShadow in Crow's Nest Copper. The picture is a stamp from Oxford Impressions "The Family Man" collection. Added some jute that I tattered and inked up with Black Soot and some old copper embellies from my treasure chest. Hope you enjoy.

xoxo Toni

Project Runway

2011-03-25T12:04:00.001-07:00

This tag was made for 2 challenges this week. First, Theme Thursday which is to create something "ORANGE", and Dragons Dream Tag It On, which their theme is "DREAMING HAUTE COUTURE".

I colored my tag then used Matt Gel Medium to adhere vintage pieces of pattern. Stamps were from Oxford Impressions collection "The Dressmaker". Used several sheets of pattern and diecut using Tim Holtz "Tattered Florals". Used a brad to hold all flowers together, gave it a good scrunch and distressed the edges with DI Walnut. Hope you enjoyed.

xoxo Toni

"ART" Journal

2011-03-24T18:21:00.000-07:00

This week at Simon Says Stamp Challenge the theme is "Show a Word". The word I chose is 'ART'.

I picked up this little cardboard book at Michaels for $2.00. Fell in love with it because it had 100 empty kraft paper pages. Immediately I knew it would be perfect for me to keep my art journal, with all my little technique notes and such. But first I had to make it "ME". So I altered the cover with some mulberry paper and this beautiful ribbon, then added the brass letters , butterfly and flowers. Added a little key to the ribbon that acts as the book binding and.... ta da !

"Smile"

2011-03-23T21:56:00.000-07:00

This week at Collage Obsession the theme is "Tramp". You were provided a image if you wanted to use it or just create something depicting a tramp :
The physical attributes of the Tramp include a pair of baggy pants, a tight coat, a small derby hat, a large pair of shoes, a cane and the famous small mustache. The Tramp walks strangely and uncomfortably because of the ill-fitting clothing; either he is wearing secondhand clothes, or they are originally his but he cannot afford new ones. The Tramp may have seen better days, but he maintains the attitude and demeanor of a high-class individual; as long as he acts like one he can believe that he is one, and is able to keep his hope that some day he actually will be again. (Wikipedia)
I created this piece by using an image I found on the web and printed it on Sticky Back Canvas, as well as the quote by Mr. Chaplin. Attaching it to a 6x6 canvas that I had painted black. Aged a picture frame with black flat spray paint, scratched it up with Tonic Craft Scratcher and stained with Walnut DI. Made a small tag to hang onto some cheese cloth stained with waterdowned Black Soot DI.

Charlie Chaplin wrote the instrumental in 1936 and then lyrics and a title were added in 1954. The singer is telling the listener to cheer up and that there is always a bright tomorrow, just as long as they "Smile".

What's Cookin' ???

2011-03-20T13:00:00.000-07:00

Our Vintage Affair altered project for March starts today and the theme is "Kitchen" - anything related to kitchen topic, it might be decorated spoon or any other kitchen item, or recipe book, or just a picture with a lady cooking. This months sponsor is The winner of the challenge will win the whole set of 6 papers from the newest 3ndypapir collection "Sweetheart and a spot of Guest Designer for the upcoming challenge! Congratulations to Anne Gro, this month's guest designer. Please stop by her blog to view her wonderful creations.

For my kitchen altered project I used a huge clothespin that I purchased from Michaels Crafts Store and altered it to hold my recipe cards. Using my G45 Domestic Goddess paper I cut the paper and used DI Walnut to distress the edges. I then applied Modge Podge to adhere all the paper in their proper places. Then embellished with tiny rosettes from I Am Roses, added some lace trim and black pearls from Studio Garage Band Etsy Shop. And topped it off with white feathers to trim one of the ladies hats. Very easy and fun ! Hop over to Our Vintage Affair to see what everyone else is cooking up!

Visions of BIG Chocolate Cupcakes

2011-03-17T11:00:00.000-07:00

Dragons Dream TIO has a theme this week of "BIG, BOLD, EXTENDED".

My little girl here is dreaming of chocolate. Kind of like what I do often... I have a really bad sweet tooth. The stamped images are from the Fairy Sweets collection from Oxford Impressions. Tag was distressed with Spun Sugar and Aged Mahogony DI, edges were distressed with Walnut DI. Glossy Accents was applied to frosting to adhere seed beads and Diamond Dust for the sprinkles.
Happy St Patty's Day to my Irish Friends out there are here are a few Irish Proverbs:
"A promise is a debt."
"Laziness is a heavy burden."
"Many hands make light work."
"Castles were built a stone at a time."

I'M CUCKOO !

2011-03-14T12:52:00.000-07:00

This week at Kard Krazy the theme is "Birds of a Feather and at College Obsession the theme is "Many" (so I used many feathers).

"One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest" was created using Oxford Impressions "Steampunk Elements" line. And my birdcage was made using Copper UTEE Background of tag was made using DI Pine Needles and Old Paper then sprayed with water, distressed the edges with Walnut. Hope you enjoyed.

xoxo Toni

He Aint Heavy He's My Brother

2011-03-13T10:55:00.000-07:00

Simon Says Stamp theme is "Show Some Metal" and CCC #35 FINALE (or is it????) is Design Details on page 67 of "The Book".
I love things with dimension and textures and inks and paints and and and .... when I was done with this, I had blisters (from my glue gun), cuts and scratches (from the wires) and ink and paint everywhere.... mmmmmm so much fun! Picture is of my very talented brother Tracy G. For some "heavy inspring music" drop over to his website.

Using Golden Gel Medium, I coated a black gesso painted canvas to adhere the picture. The title was made using pieces of metal that were formed around Grundgeboard letters, some were attached to twinchie canvases for added interest.
Hope you enjoyed !!! Now go get messy !

xoxo Toni

Spring is in the Air

2011-03-12T20:45:00.000-08:00

This weeks theme @ Drunken Stampers is "Faux Wood", they suggested to....Ink it up, emboss it, color it any way you would like. I have had this piece of faux wood paper for a long while and decided it was time to be used. I chose to make the flowers from the wood. I distressed the edges of the tag and embossed it with Gold UTEE also using the UTEE for the stamped words and splatters. The flowers were sprayed with Lindy's Stamp Gang sprays (from top to bottom) Amaryllis Burgundy, Creme Brulee, French Lilac Violet, Tibetin Poppy Blue, Dark Chocolate Truffle, all the center flowers are Bayou Boogie Gold.

This piece qualified for a few more challenges so it has been entered in the following:

Gingersnap Creations # 92 Jewel Colors + Gold

Three Muses "Spring"

Dragons Dream Tag It On "Buttons and Bows"

Enjoy each moment of each day... hugs and kisses Toni

Pssst The Secrets Out !

2011-03-10T15:30:00.000-08:00

Ok.... The secret is out and I can finally share some exciting news. I have the pleasure of being chosen for the "Our Vintage Affair" design team. I am so excited to work with these fabulous ladies from all over the globe. Every month there will be new challenges anywhere from scrapbook layouts & cardmaking to altered art. If you have a love for the vintage style you will definitely enjoy this blog challenge.

The brand new challenge that begins today is "All About Buttons", there is also a sketch provided but not necessary to use.

The sponsor this month is and the winner will win the entire new "Sweetheart" paper collection. Hop over to their blog @ 3ndypapir.no for some wonderful inspiration and to view this beautiful set of vintage style papers.

My interpretation of the challenge is this Friendship Card.

The image I chose was from Graphics Fairy . The mat for the image is Claudine Helmuths Sticky Back Canvas and stained with Lindy's Stamp Gang "Gator Gumbo Olive" stain. Mixed Medium Gel was applied to the image and then to the sticky back canvas. I hope you will stop by "Our Vintage Affair" to be inspired by all the beautiful art. xoxo Toni

From Trash to Treasure

2011-03-05T00:54:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite things to do is go looking for treasures at the local thrift and junk stores. I came upon this adorable little purse and new it would be perfect for the Artful Bag Challenge, This month the theme is "EMBELLISH". It SCREAMED Steampunk!!!.

I then dug into my wonderful stash of laces and ribbons and searched through my cogs & old watch parts.

I then wanted to add some danglies and charms and realized that would fit right in for :

Gingersnap Creations #90 challenge "CHARMS"
Studio L3 CCC #34 "Dimensional Fragments" on page 63 of "The Book". Such a cool technique, I will definitely use this one again and again.
Bling It On, a brand new challenge blog with this weeks theme, "Anything Goes" (with the added option of a charm) .

The precious little steampunk child on this charm was on a collage sheet that I purchased from Inka @ Altered Artifacts Etsy Store.

I hope you enjoyed :)
xoxo Toni

What Becomes of a Broken Heart ?

2011-02-24T20:32:00.000-08:00

This week's theme at Art On The Darkside challenge blog is "Broken Hearts".

I used several mixed media's here. The frame was purchased at Michaels for $1 and I painted it black, then dry brushed it with white gesso. To make my broken heart, I shattered sea shells and colored them with Red Pepper Alcohol Ink and used Gel Medium to apply it to my frame. Used Tim Holtz fragments to make my "fragile" letters and added charms for interest.

The right hand corner is Claudine Helmuth's Sticky Back Canvas (can be purchased at Studio Garage Band store) and I used the transfer technique which is so much fun. I found it here on YOUTUBE. I then finished off with some beeswax just for a added bit of texture .

How do I believe you mend a broken heart... put yourself out there to love again. Hope you enjoyed :) xoxo

Free as a Butterfly

2011-02-24T12:34:00.001-08:00

Gothic Arches Challenge this week was "Butterflys".

This gave me an opportunity to go through old scraps of cardstock and pick out different butterflys to cut out and embellish with the new colors of Stickles which you can purchase @ Studio Garage Band Store.

I then randomly attached the butterflys to wire to give that "in flight" look. My arch was sprayed with Lindys Stamp Gang "Tiffanys Blue " Starburst Stain Spray.

The quote I used is from Charles DickensIf you get a moment, take a look at Gothic Arch Challenge. There are so many wonderful artist there and so much inspiration. You won't be disappointed. Enjoy xoxo

"Once Upon A Time"

2011-02-22T10:58:00.001-08:00

Gingersnap Creations #89 is kings and queens and I kept this really simple. The stamps I used are from Oxford Impressions "Castle Keep" collection. Inked up the tag with Lindy's Stamp Gang moonshadow spray "Violaceous Violet". Have a creatively wonderful day ! xoxo

Everyone Screams for Ice Cream

2011-02-22T10:09:00.000-08:00

I am new to The Artful Bag Challenge but it is right up my alley, means I am such a purse addict.... love love love them. This months theme is to take something an alter it into a bag. So I chose my Baskin Robbins ice cream container and spoons.

This was such a fun challenge and it gave me a chance to use my new G45 paper line "Curtain Call". There is alot of details on this so I took a few pics. The clasp was a fun old garter I purchased at a junk store. The inside was decorated with snipits of Curtain Call and then Mod Podge was applied to seal it all down. (Kind of hard to see but you get the idea.)

The spoons were used to attach the handle, which was braided Curtain Call paper.

The little spoon I used to be a handle for the mirror, which is tucked away in a little pocket.

And the lid got blinged up with Prima flowers, pearls, peacock feather and Curtain Call die cuts.

Hope you enjoyed!! Hop over to Artful Bag Challenge for some fun. Next month is going to be 'EMBELLISH".... xoxo

Coffee and Cream anyone???

2011-02-17T11:41:00.000-08:00

Gingersnap Creations #88 Color Challenge is "Coffee and Cream".... yummm there is something about these colors that are so simple but warm and inviting.

My background was created using T!m's concerto mask and then sprayed with Lindy's Stamp Gang Moonshadow Spray in Ethereal Emerald. These sprays are beautiful vintage walnut color with a hint of different colors that you can see when project is hit by light.

The flower I made using an old vintage pleating machine (lots of work but so much fun) Took a class from a amazing instructor and designer Arlene Baker. Then to top it off added some chocolate Mica flakes sprinkled here and there.

Hope you enjoyed !!! Please hop over to Gingersnaps for some wonderful inspiration :) Toni xoxo

Tea Time

2011-02-12T21:41:00.000-08:00

Gingersnap Creations #87 challenge provided a tea bag template for us to come up with a project or layout using it. Thank you Netty for the template, if you haven't already, hop over to her blog for some sensational art inspiration.

And CCC #31 is all about the Rusted Enamel technique which is on page 41 in "The Book"!!! The colors I used for the rusted enamel technique is Spun Sugar for the base and then aged with Victorian Velvet. This is a technique that I use quite frequently, so much fun !!! Hope you have a sweet Valentines Day !!! xoxo

Be My Valentine

2011-02-12T14:30:00.000-08:00

Whewwww... it has been a long time in between posts and I'm so glad to be back blogging again. So many changes have been taking place in my life and now that things are somewhat settled down I find myself in a creative slump and trying to dig myself out of it. Chocolate always makes everything better !!!

With Valentines Day on Monday I decided to make a chocolate cupcake (fat free) to hide a special gift card for my Sweetheart daughter Brittany. I had just ordered these delicious colors of Starburst Sprays from Lindy's Stamp Gang and this was the perfect project for them. I used Prima flowers and sprayed them with Starburst Sprays in the following colors: Cadbury Milk Chocolate, Dark Chocolate Truffle & Creme Brulee Cream.... aren't those names yummy !!! The Sweetheart Doves pictured in the small photo can be purchased @ Studio Garage Band's Etsy Shoppe.

If you happen to own some of these gorgeous sprays then hurry over to Lindys Blog, there is a contest running and you might just win some art goodies. It's also a great place to go for inspiration and that's just what I needed to help me out of my slump. So while my fingers are still messy, let me get back in the studio to see what else I can create. Glad to be back... xoxo

Studio L3 & Simon Says Challenge " Things That Go Bump In The Night"

2010-09-20T21:02:00.000-07:00

Simon Says blog challenge is "GRUNGE" and so is Studio L3. What is there not to love about grunge. It's this wonderful artist material that can be used in so many different ways. I chose to use it as my canvas.
At Studio L3 we are working on challenge # 15 on page 53 of Timmy's book. Now I have to admit, I wasn't sure what was meant by "Agate on Grunge" till I talked it over with my sister (she is so smart). This is a technique I do frequently and love it. Alcohol inks have got to be one of my favorite things to use, other than my DI's.
For my "Things That Go Bump In The Night" I used Grungepaper for my entire canvas, and coated it with Gesso means I don't have any Dabbers (shame, shame on me). I used Pitch Black, Pebble, & Gold alcohol inks for the sky, then Terracotta, Ginger, Butterscotch, Espresso & Copper for the earth, and lots and lots of Blending Solution. I used Black Archival Ink for the stamped images which are a combination of Oxford Impressions "Wicked" & Cherry Pie Stamps "Dark Boundaries"

Judy, Judy, Judy

2010-09-17T07:06:00.000-07:00

There is something so very special about my blog buddies, and if you aren't a blogger you won't understand. It's being able to reach out and connect with someone that you may never have the opportunity of meeting in a lifetime. To have a passion about the same thing and you just feel like family. I recently was posting to a participant on one of the challenges I am involved in and commented on how I just loved her piece and..... she mailed it to me! Can you think of anything more generous, but no it doesn't stop there. With her precious artwork she enclosed a bit of information regarding items she used on her piece. She has been creating with some lace that was her grandma's and there happens to be a bit of this on this collage... So not only do I have Judy now in my room, I also have a beautiful piece of her memories with it. Thank you thank you Judy for your generosity. I will cherish this always. When you get a moment, stop by and check out Judy's wonderful artwork on her blog.

Art On the Darkside Challenge "Haunted House " & Studio L3 Challenge "Basic Masks"

2010-09-16T20:49:00.000-07:00

Everyone knows how the housing market has been and it looks as though this house has had trouble selling also, so it got to participate in 2 challenges this week. Yipee !!! Art On The Darkside Challenge is back after the summer off and their theme is "Haunted House". If you enjoy a little dark art once in awhile then you might want to take a peek at the artist over at this blog, fun fun fun . My house image was generously provided by Graphics Fairy blueprints and all !

And then we have Studio L3 challenge, which is CCC #14 "Masks Basics" on page 58 of "THE BOOK"... you know which one. The stencil I used was Mr. Tim's Ransom Alphabet masks (hey by the way did you see him on HSN this week, great job boyfriend !!!) ok back to the challenges.

This project was really pretty simple:

1. gesso'd a canvas

2. used a splatter stamp for background texture effect with Brushed Corduroy & Tea Dye

3. masked my "For Sale" and used Walnut Stain

4. stamped a couple spider webs

5. added house and blue prints and distressed with Walnut Stain

6. added chipboard sign "don't be scared...."

7. added rusted pins and key

8. brushed layer of beeswax over entire picture of house and then dripped over the top ... just because that's the way I roll...lol Well see you in a bit, gotta go work on some more challenges. xoxo Toni

Something Completly Different Challenge "Arches/1950's"

2010-09-13T20:26:00.000-07:00

At SCD the theme for the month is arches and the theme for this week is 1950's. My arch was formed by using an image of an old juke box, and who better to blast on a juke box but the King himself. I love this wooden stamp I have of Elvis. Coated over the top with beeswax for that old vintage look. I have a whole collection of 45's just needed to pick which one I was willing to alter for this project. Had fun with this, and hope you enjoyed viewing... Thanx for stopping bye. xoxo

Studio L3 CCC #13 / Grungepaper

2010-09-07T23:26:00.000-07:00

It's the 13th challenge over at Studio L3 and we are getting grundgy. Bubba really tried to stay awake for the finished project but couldn't.
Ok. so to make these flowers...... yea right... your not going to get the details to this technique from me. Nope my lips are sealed... So what are you waiting for??? Go out and get this book !!! Then you can play with the rest of us . I also threw in the "chipped enamel" technique from last week.
What I will tell you though is I used papers from Tim's "Lost and Found" collection and vintaged them up a bit with Distressed Stickles, in Concord Grape, Rock Candy, Peeled Paint, Broken China & Faded Jeans. Then I used Mr. T's flower die cut to cut some flowers from mesh metal to give a bit of texture pazazz. I made the velvet leaves using vintage flower press molds. As always, so much fun to participate in this challenge. Thank you Linda !

Mixed Media Monday & 3 Muses Challenge

2010-09-04T01:20:00.000-07:00

MMMMM autumn is just around the corner and it's one of my favorite seasons. Mixed Media Monday challenged us to do something using "Cool Colors" and I immediately thought of Fall and how I love the leaves changing and cool weather. And 3 Muses hosted a theme of "Nature". So this gave me an opportunity to participate in both challenges with this one piece.

We have this gorgeous birch tree in our yard and I decided to try Laura Liddell's technique of embossing leaves. So off to the tree I go I then used my PK Glitz embossing powders and glitters to coat the leaves. Then I sprayed the branches white and covered them with Mica to give it that wintery feeling.
Meantime, while everything is drying I started work on my canvas by preppig it with gesso, then used different shades of cool acrylic colors. Ran some Perfect Pearls over the top for a shimmer, added some spackle for texture and then coated the entire canvas with Golden's Glass Bead Gel which is made with genuine glass beads, its unique visual effect – like that of condensation on cold glass.

Assembly time... put all the pretties on the canvas & WAA LAA... Hope you enjoyed... :)

Dragons Dream TIO "Oriental in 2 colors"

2010-09-03T00:03:00.001-07:00

This week at Dragons Dream we are creating something with an Oriental theme but only using 2 colors. I got to bust out an old stamp of mine. Did some embossing on metal to add a little texture.

The entire tag is sprayed with a new product I'm really jazzed about. It's called Moon Shadow, and the color I used here is Bucket O'Blood. The company is Lindy's Stamp Gang. These have a walnut or sepia color base and then when you tilt them the hidden color shows through... Awesome product!!! They are having a Labor Day sale right now, so you might want to hop over to their website and take a look.

Took some alcohol ink to the beaded antenna's ... thank you mom for never throwing anything away. These were perfect for my butterfly, and added some embellishments to finish off my tag.

Ja mata. じゃまた。(see you later)

Gothic Arches & CC # 12/ "Pushing Up Daisies"

2010-08-30T23:27:00.000-07:00

Tackled two challenges on this piece. Gothic Arches theme is "Daisies" and we are now in week #12 for Compedium of Curiosties challenge which is "chipped enamel", which I love this technique..

I also used Tim's shabby chic technique on the tombstone to give it texture and stone-like appearance. The image in the frame is a lenticular sticker which gives it that eerie look. I have used the "worn enamel" technique before and it continues to be one of my fav's. Tim's book is a must have if you are into altering pieces. I just love participating in different challenges. It drives you into different directions, encourages me to use products that I tend to forget about. And all the other bloggers involved are priceless .... TFL xoxo

Studio L3 "CC #11" Blended Batik

2010-08-29T21:58:00.000-07:00

Where has the time gone... we are already enjoying technique #11 which is Blended Batik... OMGosh how much fun is this... Too cool Sir Tim !

Jump over to Linda's blog for some amazing art inspiration... 88 pieces of art inspiration joined this weeks challenge. HUMMMMMM I would have been 89 but I was a tad late in posting my entry. Well gotta go and look at everyone's batik beauties.... xoxo Toni

Alter It Monthly "Music"

2010-08-23T16:16:00.000-07:00

For the month of August Alter it Monthly has a theme of "Music". Their sponsor this month happens to be The Altered Element which has amazing items for your altered projects. You have to hop over to their website and take a lookie.

My altered piece I submitted happens to be a tribute to my sweet heart of a brother Tracy G.... an amazing and brilliant guitarist & music writer. At first glance he looks rough and intimidating, but "Don't Judge A Book By It's Cover".

The foundation of my altered piece was an old music book salvaged from a junk store. A niche was created to house many very special photos of Tracy from long ago to now.

Quote by Tracy G given during a radio interview.

As far as the randomness embellishments, this was also created for a art scavenger hunt, where we were provided a list of items to find and make something with it. Some of those items were, feathers, washers, nuts & bolts, metal, wire, paper clips, old postage stamps, concert tickets, popsicle sticks, and a whole bunch more items.

Enjoying the Journey with ATC's

2010-08-19T23:38:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is going to be my very first ATC swap hosted at Stamp Your Heart Out in quaint Claremont Village. My special artsy friend Sandra talked me into participating in this and I have to admit, I really had fun making these little cards. Started off with old cardboard and embossed it with Tim Holtz textured fade , used walnut stain for my base. Then sprayed it with Lindy Stamp's Treasure Island Aqua, it provided a wonderful patina effect.

Embossed the edges with PK Glitz embossing glitter "Bronze Patina". Then glammed it up with some vintage movie film from Studio Garage Band's Etsy store and some handmade labels made out of grungpaper which is also sold at their store.

Thanks again Sandra for the push to get involved with this.

Studio L3 Challenge/ CC# 10 Distressed Stickles

2010-08-17T23:44:00.000-07:00

Good morning everyone, over at Studio L3 we are on CC #10 and we are stickleling (is that a word ??) up things the T!m Holtz way. I just love bling and sparkle, but sometimes, oh... many times you I want that subtle vintage glassy look to your projects. Distressed Stickles is that perfect product to use. I used Scattered Straw, Faded Jeans, Brick Red, Picket Fence, Rock Candy & Milled Lavender.

Take a hop over to Studio L3 and get ready to be inspired by some amazing artists.

**** Note: just as a little heads up... Ranger has just released Distressed Stickles in the matching colors of the "new" Distressed Ink Pads. The entire set of 12 are going to be sold at Studio Garage Band Etsy store. If you are interested, you can visit their store and send them a note and they can place you on the pre-order list for these sets. Product should be received in the Etsy store no later than 9-3-10 ***

So Cal Shop Hop 2010

2010-08-15T20:12:00.000-07:00

Today had so much fun running around with scrapbook buddies and hopping from one store to another spending $$$$$ of course. When you think you have it all, try visiting stores you have never been too or going to those that you haven't visited in awhile... Woosh.... head rush.

We laughed and laughed and ate, then laughed, and spent money and laughed some more. Only went to 5 stores, but by the look of the trunk of the car, it appeared that we had visited a whole lot more. First stop 1) Scrapbooking Made Simple, Santa Clarita, wonderful owner Stacey took so much time to teach us new techniques, and was so generous with freebies for us. Off to Craft Connection, also in Santa Clarita. Small but jammed with Tim Holtz 7 Gypsies and some cool 70's paper that will look great in my highschool layouts I'm getting ready to do. Then off to a HUUUUUGE store called Remember When in Valencia. A private crop is already in planning stages. Yes gang, it is definitely worth driving all the way to this store for a crop. Accu-cut center to die for, and product galore!!!!!

Then we headed towards home, and stopped off at Pages of the Heart and Scrap N Yap both in quaint Monrovia... had to spend what little cash we had left. Just love that I have scrapbook buddies to share this wonderful hobby with. Looking forward to more fun right around the corner...

Studio L3 "CC #9" Distress Crackle

2010-08-11T21:06:00.000-07:00

Over at Studio L3, wonderfully creative Linda Ledbetter is hosting a great challenge for all you Tim Holtz lovers... and you know who you are :) This week the challenge is page 42 in the Compendium of Curiosities technique book.

If you want a ton of art inspiration, you must jump over to Studio L3's blog. Participants there are unbelievable. My tag this week is called "Get a room"... hummmm my couple is a bit taken with each other. Used Tim's grungeboard for the key hole, some of his Lost and Found paper found it's way onto this tag and also incorporated a fragment. The crackle colors I used were Vintage Photo and Rock Candy, but if you want to know how to do this, get out your book and follow Tim's instructions...and remember "Distress to take away the stress".. xoxo

Theme Thursday & Three Muses

2010-08-10T20:44:00.000-07:00

Well I had to pair these two challenges together, after all "Halloween" for Theme Thursday challenge and "Doors" for 3 Muses challenge, how perfect is that. You never know what's behind THE DOOR...... I got my inspiration for this piece from the spider which is called Black Magic Woman and is sold at Studio Garage Band etsy shop or Studio Garage Band blog. And what is behind the door you ask, well it's "Cold Ethel" body parts also sold at Studio Garage Band. How fun are these. The stamps are all from Oxford Impressions the "Wicked" line. Oh and by the way, "Cold Ethel" does come with a head, I just chose to save it for another project...BWAHAHAHAHA

GOTHIC ARCH CHALLENGE "Crowns"

2010-08-08T21:23:00.000-07:00

The theme at Gothic Arches is "Crowns"... I dug into my old school stash of scrapbook goodies and found all of these embellies. I've really been trying hard to USE my craft goodies instead of hoarding them...TFL.... now off to blog hop and see everyone else's wonderful crown creations... xoxo

Studio L3 "Compendium of Curiosities #8"

2010-08-05T11:10:00.000-07:00

I had alot of catching up to do for this blog challenge as I had been waiting for my book to come in the mail. Over at Studio L3 they are working on Challenge #8 which is distressing grungeboard or grungepaper... (both smell phenominal to me). Let's turn to page 39 and follow Mr T!'s directions. I'm keeping all my tags ringed together in my "Curiosties Collection". There is soooo much knowledge in this book. If you haven't gotten it, and you love to get messy with inks and stuff, it is definitly a must have on your bookshelf.

GOTHIC ARCH CHALLENGE "Owls"

2010-08-04T23:21:00.000-07:00

Gothic Arches has a theme of "Owl" this week. This is on the whimsy side with a touch of bizarre, hench Mildred. Maybe it's the hot weather this week that is to blame for my warped sense of humor. Stamp used for chandelier as well as Mildred are from Oxford Impressions. 3 Muses's theme last week was "Odd Bird" but I didn't get these pics downloaded in time for that theme. Off to work on their challenge for this week's theme of "Love is Blind"

GOTHIC ARCH CHALLENGE "Marie Antoinette"

2010-07-27T20:25:00.001-07:00

This week at Gothic Arches challenge the theme is Marie Antoinette and I chose to use my bees wax for this to give it that old vintage aged look. The pictures really don't do it justice but you need to try it, you will love it.
The image I got off the internet and applied to chipboard arch. Then added perfect pearls patina colors for the highlighted colors on the side. To add another dimension to the clothing, I took old fashion school glue rubbed a layer on with my finger let it dry just until it was tacky and then applied a another coat of bees wax. This technique works great with acrylic paints, actually makes great cracks in your art. The bees wax didn't work as well but still provided me area to distress ink for texture effect. The crystals hanging from the vintage flowers were purchased at Studio Garage Band Etsy Shop, they also have the Melting Pot & BeesWax for sale.
Thanks for looking xoxo Toni

Theme Thursday, Dragons Dream TIO, & Mixed Media Monday

2010-07-21T22:23:00.000-07:00

Well this one piece covered 3 different challenges that I love to participate in. Theme Thursday is "Vintage Tag"; Dragons Dream TIO is "Say it with Numbers" & Mixed Media Monday is "Play Things". Awhile back I was experimenting with aging tags using coffee and baking them in the oven. Made the house smell real good, but didn't really like how they came out. I used to much coffee and the tags came out very dark. So this one was perfect for my Ouija board, looks alot like wood. All the stamps I used are from Oxford Impressions "Haunted" series.

Yea... back in the 70's my mom would play with the Ouija board with us. It scared me to death. Glad to say I know longer rely on a board for direction but I look to the Lord. Still I think the stamp is awesome, brings back funny memories of old play things....

Hummmm I predict you will be creating something in the future.... oh just go and have fun with your paper and scissors... :)

3 MUSES "Mail Art"

2010-07-20T10:30:00.000-07:00

The theme this week at "3 Muses" is MAIL ART. If you have seen the movie Letters to Juliet, then you will get this piece of mine.

It's a charmingly romantic movie placed in Italy, and a young girl joins a group of ladies whom they call themselves the secretaries of Juliet. They respond to letters to Juliet seeking advice about love. This is my take on it. You see after 30 years of marriage I am divorced and one of the lines in the movie is "what if I have a second chance with love". I have always been a hopeless romantic, and even though I am vey happy finding "me" and enjoying "me " it would be nice to know that Romeo is somewhere out there for me... hahahaha. Hope you enjoy, The picture below is the beginning of my brick wall which I made from textured paper towels, masking tape and gesso glued on a canvas and then just gobs of paint...oooo so much fun.

Dragons Dream TIO "Shabby Chic"

2010-07-19T20:45:00.000-07:00

The tag theme this week for Dragons Dream is "Shabby Chic". I made this tag in the shape of a house because if I had my choice my entire home would be decorated shabby chic. There is something clean, fresh, feminine, romantic about shabby chic.

Some of the most perfect embellishments for this project were ..... 1. Victorian Chandelier Crystals, 2. Dove stickpins, 3. Lullabye buds, all are sold at Studio Garage Band Etsy store

THREE MUSES challenge "Rust"

2010-07-06T22:50:00.000-07:00

Three Muses always pushes you right out of that creative box with their themes, and this week is no different. If any one knows me, then they know I love that old, grundgy, vintage look, so I had a real good time rusting up some goodies. Dug deep into my basket of T!m goodies and used his clock masks for the back drop on my canvas, Word stick "Time" and birdcage die cut which I just love.

The canvas, birdcage and dove stickpins got a good washing of rusting chemicals. These bird cages in all their rusted and patina'd glory will soon be for sale at our store "Studio Garage Band"

. TFL... xoxo Toni

Small World of Inchies and Twinchies "Fishy"

2010-07-06T20:07:00.000-07:00

This months theme at SW of I & T is "fishy". I just love textures of all kinds and recently came upon this beautiful Roving Merino Wool. I had some that resembled the oceans water so thought it would be a nice backdrop for my "fishy. I added fabric sizing to give it form and added it to my twinchie, then made lots of fish out of shrinky dink as well as my "Skools Out" sign, and you can't see it but I glued tiny sea shells all around the outside of the canvas... Hope you enjoyed :) xoxo Toni

The Envelope Project "Meet Me @ Mike's"

2010-07-04T19:05:00.000-07:00

Thought it would be loads of fun to join this challenge. You send a few wonderful crafting items in an decorated envelope to the address in Austrailia and in a couple weeks a very lucky person is drawn and they get ALLLLLLL the goodies that have been mailed in all over the world... I am the 279th entry, so that means alot of goodies. My envelope included some vintage movie film strip and acrylic chandelier gems, both sold at Studio Garage Band store... a hand made tag using one of Mr. T!m's techniques, old ephemera and whimsical paper flowers. Check out the website to see more information. Can't win unless you play... :)

xoxo Toni

Vintage Pleated Flowers

2010-06-24T19:38:00.000-07:00

Recently took a class learning to make these wonderful pleated flowers with the "Amanda Jane" smocking machine... Wowzer, fun class but intense. Needed a glass of wine after that one. I have a new appreciation for women who make those beautiful dresses and blouses using this machine. But the end result is so worth it. My pictures are featured on "Vintage Affair" blog. These were made using everything vintage, except the thread...... very cool.

Each one was made with a little different technique. The gold one, actually was yellow ribbon, but once it was pleated it takes on a whole different effect. Vintage chenille was used for the flower center and the stamens were dipped in German glass glitter. The beige flower has vintage pearl stamens and the blue flower was made reversing the top layer of the ribbon from the bottom so it looks like it's two differnt colors of blue...

For the last several months I have been fortunate enough to participate in some wonderfully creative classes with artist and book author Arlene Baker. She is amazing and hosts a monthly class offering a dfferent technique class each month. Thank you so much Arlene for your hospitality and knowledge offered to us ladies.

Dress Up challenge "Always a bridesmaid never a bride"

2010-06-21T23:32:00.000-07:00

It's June... one of the most popular months for weddings, so my entry for "Dress Up" challenge is "always a bridesmaid never a bride".

The skirt is made from a vintage hankerchief the bodice is made from sewn mulberry paper. TFL

Mixed Media challenge "Something Old"

2010-06-21T22:56:00.000-07:00

Mixed Media challenge theme this week is "something old"... but the something old isn't my mommy in the picture....lol...This happens to be one of my favorite photos of my mom back in the day, but my something old happens to be the movie film strip that I applied to the layout. On a road trip recently I came upon this wonderful find in an old antique store. 1967 movie film strip.... I was so excited I think I actually screamed a bit when I found it This film strip as well as the handmade flower can be purchased at Studio Garage Band Etsy account.

Small World of Inches & Twinchies "Steampunk"

2010-06-10T07:00:00.000-07:00

It's a new month and a new theme over @ Small World of Inchies & Twinchies . This month the theme is "Steampunk". Time flys and so it's important to take time to spend with special people in your life. Try not to rush all the time and sit down with someone special and have a cup of tea or coffee, or glass of wine, you get the picture ...lol... tomorrow is not promised to us to take advantage of today ... TFL xoxo

3 Muses & Collage Obsession challenges

2010-06-09T20:11:00.001-07:00

Three Muses challenge blog has a theme this week, "Pick a song, any song" and Collage Obsession challenge had a theme of "Mirror". I've been putting off this project for a while now. Been wanting to do a collage of MJ to put on my wall in my studio and this worked out perfect because one of my favorite songs of his happens to be Man in the Mirror.

I cut up a poster of Michael and modge podged it to different size canvases, got out my hammer and broke up an old mirror I got from a thrift store (no I'm not superstituous .... lol) and carefully glued the pieces to form obscure images. My idea is to insert this piece in an old frame, possibly painted black and taa-daa... on the wall it will go.

"If you wanna make the world a better place, take a look at yourself and then make a change. "

GOTHIC ARCH & ART ON A DARKSIDE challenge

2010-06-07T21:47:00.001-07:00

Two blog challenges were worked on tbis project. First Gothic Arches this week was "your choice", and Art on the Darkside was "Jack the Ripper." This was almost a little too dark for me, but I dug deep and came up with the following piece. It's sad to say that this "murder" has become so infamous, probably because his identity is still unknown.

Thanks to Graphic Fairy for the victorian man . And by the way.... the R.I.P. isn't directed to Mr. Jack it's for his unfortunate victims.

DRAGONS DREAM TIO "Steampunk Influence"

2010-06-03T21:25:00.000-07:00

This weeks theme over at Tag It On challenge blog is Steampunk Influence which has become such a fav of mine... Steampunk just allows you to go for it... be fun with a sense of serious, whimsical with a taste of scary... Just love it. Thought I would let the ladies have their day. I usually incoraporate men in my steampunk but after all "girls wanna have fun too". So I got to use my wonderful stamps from Oxford Impressions again. This line is called "Dress Maker". My fishnet stockings had a hole in them so the old garter is holding onto them... tee hee :) how fun.

THREE MUSES CHALLENGE "Time"

2010-06-02T01:16:00.000-07:00

Three Muses challenge blog has "time" as the theme this week. I have this thing for clocks, not sure what it is but I have always liked them. So I was really jazzed when I saw the theme. Now confession time.. (hahaha no pun intended). I had made this project awhile back for another challenge but did not get it finished in time to submit, so thought this was the perfect opportunity to enter it for "the Muses"...hope you like and remember "Take Time To Create" xoxo

Creative Therapy Challenge "How has art saved you"

2010-06-02T00:08:00.000-07:00

Over at Creative Therapy blog, the catalyst is "How has art saved you". Take a moment and drop by their blog for some wonderful testimonies and beautiful art.
For me, art is "freedom". Free to be me, without judgement. I tend to be a perfectionist, and art heals me of this. I used to be concerned what others thought of my crafts, or cooking or whatever artistic endeavor I was involved in at the time, but not so much any more. I feel peaceful when I am creating. Like my bio says, whether it's my scrapbooking, my painting, music, dance "art has always brought the calm to my clatter".
This piece is actually going to be donated to "Have a Heart for Haiti" auction, where monies are going to be donated to the Red Cross to benefit recovery efforts for Haiti. If you would like to create for a wonderful cause, then check out the blog. You still have time to participate.

Gothic Arches Challenge "OPENINGS"

2010-05-30T02:20:00.001-07:00

Gothic Arches theme this week is "openings" and my translation for this is "Keep an Open Mind". I just love steampunk and just received these wonderful stamps in the mail from Oxford Impressions, You have to check out their website... great collection. I used black soot distressed ink for stamps and then clear UTEE to emboss. Then got real dirty with my distressed ink pads, smeared and spritzed them and then ran my arch all over. Really liked how it turned out, kind of like old rusted machinery. Then just for added pazzaz. hung some metal charms and washers and got this really neat little flask from Zinnia (coolest little art store in South Pasadena), filled it with micro beads and wired it shut. TFSB :)

SCD birthday challenge "twinchie/Crown"

2010-05-30T02:05:00.000-07:00

Poo... I'm really going to miss doing these precious little twinchies... this is the last of them for this birthday month over at Something Completly Different challenge blog. Next month will be a different project. The theme is "crown". Life brings on many different jobs and roles to play every single day, and I find I am always juggling from one hat (or crowns ) to another. Whether, it's being a mom, going to work at my job, being a friend, a daughter, a cook, a crafter ( haha...had to throw that one in)... Exausting but I wouldn't trade it for anything :) Cjeck out SCD design team twinchies... they are awesome...

Mixed Media Monday challenge

2010-05-27T22:40:00.000-07:00

This week's theme for Mixed Media Monday is "Marie Antonette". Wanted to mix things up a bit and thought this was the perfect opportunity to use my "special paper". I purchased some handmade paper from Bali and it's been hiding away for awhile. Time to bust it out. I used it as my canvas for this piece. Also wanted to try out a technique that I picked up on the internet... I'm sorry I can't remember whose website I got this from otherwise I would give you kudos.... But the clock was just a cut out on regular paper. I glimmer misted it then applied 3 coats of UTEE...then popped it in the freezer for about 10 minutes. When it came out I bent the paper and it cracked like glass. Pretty cool technique. I think I would like it better on something a little thicker, like chip board, or grungeboard, but I just love the fact that their are so many wonderfully talented artists out there that are willing to share techniques with us all.

Not sure where I'll use this piece, but it really doesn't matter.... my hands are full of ink and paint, I have glitter on my nose and I feel artistically satisfied... Time for bed nighty night. :) xoxo

Gothic Arches Challenge "Home Sweet Home"

2010-05-24T23:42:00.000-07:00

Many of us have or will experience the "empty nest" syndrome, in which our children will go off to pursue their adult life which we as parents have worked hard to help prepare them for. My one and only child (daughter) went 3000 miles away to get a college education and I missed her terribly. But as a mom I knew that is exactly what I needed to do,...let her go. She was sooooo excited to be out on her own, and it was so worth it when she would tell me, that "there is no place like home"... They may go away for a bit, but what a blessing it is when they flutter back to the nest for a visit. TFL

Some products I used to make this project are...Tim Holtz bird cage die cut, glimmer mist for back ground, Mudd Puddles for texture on bird & PK Glitz embossing powder to add bling 0n birdcage.

Art on the Darkside"Ghost Whisperer"

2010-05-19T22:21:00.000-07:00

Over at Art on the Darkside challenge blog, the theme this week is "Ghost Whisperer". This project really hit home with me in a personal way... you see the man in the window is a picture of my grandfather, whom I never knew. But worse than that, my mother never knew him either. He walked out on her and her mother when she was only a couple months old. All my mothers life she has carried with her a sense of abandonment, anger and hurt.

I never realized how much my mother looks like her father until I saw this picture... If I were able to speak to him "Damn you" is what I would say to him ....for breaking my mother's heart, but I don't think it would be in a whisper....TFL :)

Gothic Arches Challenge "Bollywood"

2010-05-16T00:00:00.000-07:00

It is with great pleasure that I hosted this week's theme at Gothic Arches challenge and I chose "Bollywood". Thought it would be fun to do a little research to find out just what Bollywood is all about.

You take the colorful culture of Bombay India (which is now Mumbai) and combine it with the theatrical film industry of Hollywood and you get ... "Bollywood". Per Bollyworld.com, Bollywood films are usually musicals. Few movies are made without at least one song-and-dance number. Indian audiences expect full value for their money; they want songs and dances, love interest, comedy and dare-devil thrills, all mixed up in a three hour long extravaganza with intermission. Such movies are called masala movies, after the spice mixture masala. Like masala, these movies have everything. Hope you enjoyed the history lesson and have fun making your arch. :)

Something Completly Different Challenge "Flowers"

2010-05-15T00:13:00.000-07:00

Over at "Something Completly Different" challenge blog we are concentrating on twinchies for the month of May. Itty bitty
2 x 2 squares and this week's theme is "flowers". I used "Flower Soft" to make my dimensional flowers. If you are a card maker or scrapbooker, check out their website. The product is acid free and is really fun to work with. TFL :)

Fairy Dust Anyone???

2010-05-13T21:51:00.000-07:00

As you saw on my recent post, I accidentally deleted my blog template. Thank goodness for so many wonderful tutorials out there that help us computer challenged people get back in the game. I've been having fun loading, and reloading new templates and just messing around. One blog I always seem to keep going back to is "First Floor Flat"... you gotta visit this blog. Lots and lots of wonderful info. They had a tutorial to add twinkling stars as your cursor moves across the page. How fun is that !!! Pay the blog a visit, you won't be disappointed. Thank you Susie for sharing your tutorials with us. :)

Forgive the mess

2010-05-13T07:52:00.001-07:00

Trying to make some changes to my blog and oops... I deleted the template. So I guess it is time for a face lift. If my blog looks a little messy its cuz it's under construction...Hang in there with me. :)