The back end of Christmas

Christmas is over but I wanted to share the last photos I have of Christmas cards I made, including a custom order I did for a gentleman. He was very specific about what he wanted (it was to match the gift he had for his wife). His instructions were the card needed to look like the Ice Queen from the 'Narnia' movies. Images of icy whites, pearls, glitter and satin were conjured up in my mind.Of course a few snowflakes were mandatory too!
Anyways, here's what I came up with:
The gentleman requested the sentiment too. All I could think was "Wow, his wife is one lucky lady. What a wonderful husband!!". I embossed and added shimmer paint (difficult to see in the photo), added pearls and glitter. I wanted a substantial white satin bow on the card too to tie it all together. I love the finished product and the customer was pleased too. I just hope his wife liked it!

When I was cleaning out the files on my camera I found these Christmas cards I hadn't posted, so here we go... as a fond farewell to 2010!
My two most favourite colours in the world!! Red and turquoise... I combined them to make this gem. Just in case you are wondering, the turquoise house is my house! LOL

This is another custom order I did. It is the first Hanukkah card I have ever made but I am pleased with the results. The flames from the candles were made using the wings from the Bird punch. I just cut them down a bit to fit. I thought I was pretty smart coming up with that!

So there we have it. A new year is a coming and with it new ideas from the new Occasions mini due out on the 1st!

Cute Kids Card Class

Phew, it has been a bit of a mission, but here it is... the Kids Card Class that many of you have been asking for. What kid wouldn't love to receive one of these cards on their next birthday?!
There is the ginormous cupcake card (if only it was real) with no calories but plenty of extras and bling.

Then there's the Owl card which is just too cute, especially when you open it up to find three more fine feathered friends waiting for you, all standing to attention.
Now, the Owl birthday card was my favourite until I came across the 'Slider' card idea. Lookee here...
Looks just like a regular card except that it has a ribbon pull tab on either side. "I wonder what will happen if I pull it?" I hear you say.
Well, this is what happens when you pull the ribbon...
The elephant moves to reveal a secret message! How cute is that?!

Class dates: Wednesday 5th January and Thursday 6th January 7 - 9.30pm.
Cost $18.00
Email to register.

What Have I Been Up To?

I know, it's been a while. I promise I haven't been neglecting you all!
I have had quite a number of custom orders to get done and I've been busy making the last of my Christmas cards. I have been merrily making cards and writing in them. I have even popped them in envelopes then sealed it. "Great" I would say to myself, "another card off my list". Only problem was, more often than not I forgot to photograph the card first!
I thought you might like to see some of the ones I did remember to snap.

Turning Forty

A friend of mine is turning 40 tomorrow and some of us have organised a breakfast brunch for her. I wanted to make a special card for a special lady and this is what I came up with. I am safe posting it now as I know she doesn't look at my blog often!
I love how it turned out. Lots of texture and dimension and the antiqued look is gorgeous. I just hope she doesn't think the "aged" look of the card is any reference to her age!!

Tag You're It!

Ok, I know I should have posted this a wee while ago but I have been waiting for tag ideas from the rest of the ASI team! One of the ladies has been sick hence the delay, but finally, I have the tags and so this is the line up my Free 'Thanks To You' Christmas class.
You'll get to make one of each of the three tags to take home with you. Just my way of saying thank you to my customers and friends for supporting my and my business this year. I couldn't do it without you!

The running of the class will be slightly different to usual. I will be holding two sessions on Wednesday 22nd December. The first session is from 6.30-8.00pm and the second session is from 8.00-9.30pm. The cost?? Free!
If you want to attend please register so I have enough supplies for everyone.

What A Deal!

Have you ever thought about becoming a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator and joining my team??? Well, now is the time if you have. Check out this awesome deal. It's only available for two weeks so contact me today!

Fancy Pants for Christmas

I am finally getting round to posting details for my much anticipated 'Fancy Pants' Christmas cards class. No more $2 bulk produced creations. All that sparkles and glitters and shines is now taking centre stage!
This class was originally going to be three cards but at the eleventh hour I was shown the wreath card and just had to include it. It is so beautiful!!
So, the four card you'll be making are:
Dasher in silver embossing with organza ribbon and shimmer paint snowflakes. In classic navy and silver with a hint of my favourite Baja Breeze. Add a few rhinestones to the antlers and wow, a card that will shine on any mantle piece. I have my upline Carol to thank for the inspiration for this card. For our monthly team swap she came up with something similar. Thanks Carol!

Not to be outdone is the second card. Very different from the first but still gorgeous. I love the texture on this card. The fabric, the lace, the vintage brad and even the crumpled paper and stitching.

Number three is the late addition. Can you see why I just "had to" include it?! It is made using the French Foliage stamp set in the newest mini and I think it is it's simplicity that is so striking. Whatever is is, I just love it! This idea was inspired by an idea I saw on the Stampin' Up! Demo site. Just one of the perks of being a demonstrator!

Lucky last is a card I made at a team retreat a few months ago. I have had it sitting on my display area and one of my ladies spied it and then the rest saw it and so here it is LOL. (If I don't want my ladies to see a creation I have to hide it. It's like hiding Christmas presents from children!).
The figures are made entirely from punches. Pretty cool huh.
It gets better though, you open the card and looks what greets you...
Too cute!!
So there you have it. Interested in attending the class?
Details are below:

DATES: Wednesday 8th & Thursday 9th December, from 7 - 9.30pm.
COST: $22

For more details feel free to email me at inkymoose@gmail.com

They Did Their Homework!!

I had a class last night and guess what? Some of the ladies that attended my water colouring class must have read my previous post... they brought in the cards they had made!
Of course I asked for the cards (I got some rather nervous looks) so I could photograph them and post them here. I just love the 'Fa La La La La' added to the bottom card especially with the musical note coming out of the birds mouth. Very cute! Placing a Christmas Critter in a circle and having them on an angle is neat too. I am going to have to remember that layout for future classes.

Can you tell one of my ladies recently got a Big Shot machine? The Top Note die used in the two cards above, would have to be my favourite of all the Sizzix dies. I thought it was so smart how the positive and the negative parts were used for these cards. And the snowman... oh my he is cute!
Well ladies, you made my day by bringing in your creations.
You should be really pleased with your results, they are awesome!

I'll Be Checking Your Homework!

Over the weekend I held my water colouring class for beginners and it was lots of fun. The class was probably the quietest it has ever been but then they were all hard and work. At the end of the class I gave the girls some stamped images to take home to practise. I told them that it was their homework and that I expected to see some results brought back to me (harsh I know!).
Not to be outdone I thought I had better do something with the images I had water coloured during the class.
Here's what I came up with:
I gave each attendee the tree and bird image seen here and a cat image from the same stamp set. I had already started the raccoon so instead of the cat I used him. Critter cute don't you think?

Another image used in the class was the beautiful Poinsettia from the 'Bells & Boughs' stamp set. The class included a card that used the image the ladies coloured in, but I had a spare one so this is what I did with it:
So ladies, next time you're in, bring me your samples. If you're happy for me to post them on here I will, otherwise I can just admire them on my own :)

Hot Chocolate Anyone?

Aren't these just the cutest mugs you have seen?! and yes they are made of paper!
As soon as I saw the idea on Val's blog (thanks Val for sharing!) I just had to make some for my upcoming craft fairs. I decided on a mug for hot chocolate and a mug for coffee.
Each mug comes with a sachet for the drink, some marshmallows and a stirring stick (a candy cane or peppermint stick).
So what's your favourite... coffee or chocolate?!

'Just A Note Gift' class gift card Holder

Boy that was quite a handful to type as a title!
As promised, here is a photo of the matching gift card holder you'll be making as part of the 'Just A Note' tin class. I deliberately didn't make it Christmassy so it would match.
To insert the card for this holder you just pull the ribbon tab and the inner section pulls up and you slide the card in. Very clever!
So if you haven't already signed up for one of the classes, you'd better now!

Counting Down To Christmas In Style

Look at what I have to post today!!!
I recently saw this on Julie Davison's blog (thank you Julie!) and just had to make one of my own.
It's an Advent Calendar made out of a mini muffin tin. How cool (and cute) is that?!
Each cover is magnetised so you can cover the treats with ease.
Here's a sneaky peek of one filled...
One of the great things about this Advent Calendar is that after each December you can pack it away and re-use it the following year. Recycling at it's best!

I have had a couple of people ask about the possibility of having a class for this. If you are interested let me know. If enough people are interested I will run a class in time for December.

'Just A Note' Gift Tin

What's something we all want but can never find? For me it is a memo pad that stays by the phone or on my desk! I am constantly looking for something to write on, especially when it comes to dates.
This gift tin is my solution. Inside it contains a calendar a memo pad and a wee pen. All the things you need in one handy spot! It's compact enough to fit into a handbag but mine is going to be left on my desk so I have it handy. You could also give it as a gift if you are willing to part with it.
In addition to the tin you'll make a gift card holder which I know everyone uses. There's no photo of that yet as I haven't made it! I will post a photo once I have.

Class details:
Wednesday or Thursday 24th/25th November 7 - 9.30pm
Cost: $15

Silvery Snowflakes

Silvery and stunning snowflakes.
This is another great idea that ASI member Sandi showed us at our weekend retreat. I told you this lady was creative!
I have recently been offered a spot at the local crafter's Co-operative called 'The Kubbyhole' and thought these would be a perfect addition to my display there.
With Christmas fast approaching, it won't be long before people are beginning to think about decorating their houses. I thought a row of these snowflakes lined up would look stunning on any table or mantle piece. I also made a trio of flower votive holders but forgot to take a photo of them before I took them to the store. I thought they would be beautiful on tables at a wedding reception.

If you'd like to purchase these (or any other goodies I have made) then check out 'The Kubbyhole' on Queen Street. It is made up of over twenty artisans so if you are looking for a gift that is a little different this year, then 'The Kubbyhole' is the place to go.
Of course, you can always email me with your requests too!

Have You Been Naughty Or Nice?

Isn't this just the cutest wee gift you've seen?! When I saw this two weeks ago at our team retreat, I thought it was! Its one of the amazing ideas that the Atlantic Stampers Ink (ASI) team members brought to share. Of course once we saw it, we had to make one.
Inside you can either put tea bags (great for someone who is sick) or chocolate.
I opted for the Ghirardelli Chocolate option (mmmmm). When I got back home I wanted to make another one but I had run out of the paper we used. This is what I came up with instead:
We thought these would make great 'Secret Santa' gifts and they are just the right size to give to someone when you want to brighten their day.

I have ASI member Sandi to thank for this super cute idea (Thanks Sandi!). If you have time, visit her blog (it is brand new) and leave her a comment. I know it will make her day, and tell her I sent you, so she knows I was thinking of her too LOL.

Christmas Is Coming Early!

This is the latest promo Stampin' Up! is running and what a great one it is! If you want to order anything or hold a workshop, then just let me know!

November Christmas Card Class

Take some Bashful Blue and Red Riding Hood card stock, add a little bit of ribbon, a bit of shimmer paint and here's what you get.

This is the final card for my Inky Moose Christmas Card Club. I will be offering two classes for this so check your calendars.

Day One: Wednesday 10th November

Day Two: Thursday 11th November


Both classes will run from 7pm as usual and each card will be $2 to make.
When you register, please let me know what class you'd like and how many cards you'll be making.

Happy Thanksgiving

I have just put the finishing touches on the goodies I have made for Thanksgiving and wanted to share them with you.
This is what our guests will be taking away with them. Milk cartons filled with candy and a jar of an Autumnal Compote that is just sublime on crackers with aged cheddar or with warm Gingerbread ... Mmmm.
For those of you that aren't joining us (and for all my readers!) I wish each and every one of you a Happy Thanksgiving Day. I am so blessed and thankful to have you in my life :)

CCMC118 - A Tea Time Treat

Anyone that knows me, knows I might not drink coffee, but tea is a completely different story! It is my one true vice.
There's nothing like coming home from a busy, hectic day and unwinding with a cup of tea. Tea is a refreshment, it's fuel (it keeps me going) and it's a social institution. Whenever guests arrive at my house, nearly the first question I ask, is "would you like something to drink?" Even if I know they don't drink tea, it is an excuse to put the kettle on and have a tea myself.
My first choice is Earl Grey and I start every morning with a cup. I have to say though, that one of my friends recently gave me some tea she had got out West when she was there and I was very taken with it. It was a Stone Fruit Blend from a Tea company called Murchies. I'll be paying them a visit!

But what does tea have to do with cards?? Well, in the new Catalogue there is a stamp set made just for me (well, that's what it felt like anyway when I first saw it!). It's called 'Morning Cup', and has images of tea cups and tea pots and some coffee related images (but I just pretend they are not in the set, because it's all about the tea). So, I just had to have the stamp set which means I had to come up with something with it!

I have had an idea for some time now to make a gift box for other such tea lovers as myself. It's taken me a while but I have finally finished it. I am SO thrilled with how it has turned out. I might even go as far to say, it's as good as a cup of tea that's been brewed to perfection.
These are the four cards that are included in the Tea Box. All have water coloured images and I have left them fairly generic so people can use them. I just had to include this quote from Eleanor Roosevelt on one of the cards... "A woman is like a tea bag. You never know how strong she is until she gets into hot water". It's so true!
Also included in the box are tea bags (yes, Earl Grey) and some gift tags with tea related images on them.
So what do you think? As good as a cup of tea or just as good as a cup of coffee?!

'Scallop Me Beautiful' Class

When my customers ask me what one punch I would recommend as their first purchase, I always say the same thing... "the circle scallop punch is the one I use the most". It can turn a plain card into something special and it's a fantastic way to highlight a stamped image, especially if it's small and might otherwise get lost on a card front.

So of course, since I have said the circle scallop punch is the best, I felt I should do a class showcasing just why I think it is. With two circle scallop punches now in the SU! range, it just means twice the "bestness".

The inspiration for this scrunched scalloped flower comes from my Upline Carol (thanks Carol!!). She demonstrated it to us at one of our meetings. It reminds me of the Chrysanthemums (Mum's to all you Canadians!) that are all about at the moment. I made the wee card to fit inside the box by folding a piece of card stock and then punching it out. Teeny tiny but perfect to go inside this box with a treat.
This card showcases with a few snips with scissors, you can make yourself a garden of blooms. For the Orange flowers I have cut between each valley of the scallops and for the red flower; every second one. Super simple but super sweet!
Made using several circle scallops; folded and cut, you end up with this floral masterpiece. Isn't it just beautiful? I got this idea from the SU! demonstrator site that I have access to.

The projects for this class are made using some of the new In Colours. Mmmmmm. Not only are the colours delicious looking, but their names conjure up thoughts of food too! Concord Crush, Peach Parfait and Pear Pizzazz. Time to eat!

Class: Wednesday October 27th, 7 - 9.30 pm. $15. Email to save yourself a seat.

The Wonderful World of Watercolouring

I have been busy beavering away on some cards for a long overdue Watercolour class that I have had many requests for. Since doing a custom water colouring card order of thirty, I feel I have a pretty good grasp on all things water coloured now!

For the class you'll make three cards and learn basic water colouring techniques - how to watercolour using watercolour pencils, markers and ink pads.

CARD ONE...
As soon as I saw this set in the new catty, I have wanted to water colour it! For this card you'll be using watercolour pencils. I found the tiny end of the pencil lead great for the smaller areas.
Don't those cakes look good enough to eat?!

CARD TWO...
This gorgeous card uses the Stampin' Up! markers to achieve the rich and vibrant colour required to imitates nature's beautiful Poinsettia. I think it is absolutely stunning.

CARD THREE...
Isn't this too cute? For this image I have used ink pads. It might now be Fall but this card is a wee reminder of Summer days.

Given the nature of the class I will be running it on a Saturday as an extra to my regular bi-weekly schedule.

Date: Sunday November 7th, 1 - 4pm.
Cost: $30. (This includes an Aqua painter that you will keep after the class).

PLEASE NOTE: Because I have to pre order the Aqua painters, payment is required when you register for the class, and registrations close Friday 22nd September.

October Christmas Club Card

It's that time again... Inky Moose's Christmas Card Class for October.
This time I have used the cute tree from the 'Fun and Fast Notes' stamp set with the wood grain background stamp. Add a little bit of glitter and some embellishments and this is what you get...
Super cute don't you think?! I love the earthy colours and the simple lines of this card.
Class details: Wednesday October 13th 7 - 9.30 pm. Each card is $2 to make so let me know how many you want to make when you register.