Monday Blues....

Hello Stampers!

Wow... I think this is the latest I've ever posted, but I have a really good excuse! John gashed his hand at the YMCA this morning and we spent the afternoon at Urgent Care, getting it patched up. No worries... he'll be fine since he got a tetanus shot and some antibiotics.  I'm determined to write a post today, so despite the late hour, here is Monday's installment of The Classic Card.  No, in case you were wondering, I don't have the Monday Blues... that title refers to the card I have to show you!  As a side note, we are momentarily experiencing a burst of sunshine here in Sherwood--- what a treat to have a break in the gray, low-hanging clouds and see the blue, blue sky above!  Sometimes it is hard to remember that above all the gray, there is blue sky and abundant sunshine. 

I mentioned earlier that the cards I'll be showing for the next couple of weeks will be featuring retiring stamp sets.  The card today is a bit of an exception, in that it shows off some fabulous designer paper that is retiring called Paisley Petals.  You can see this gorgeous paper on page 184 of the big catalog. The last time I checked, it was still available, but don't wait because it won't be around for long.
Here is the card...

You could probably make this beautiful card in less than 10 minutes, since there is minimal stamping.  Let me list the supplies I used to put this card together.

Stamps:  Four Frames (not retiring!)
               Teeny Tiny Wishes  (not retiring! )

Ink:  Baja Breeze
         Not Quite Navy
      

Paper:  Whisper White
              Baja Breeze
              Not Quite Navy
              Paisley Petals Designer Paper  (only available while supplies last)

Accessories:
              Framed Tulips embossing folder for the Big Shot
              Decorative Label Punch
              Baja Breeze Seam Binding

So stampers, get out some pretty blue paper, some pretty shades of blue ink, and stamp something that reminds you of blue skies, because I'm afraid that's the only way you're going to see blue for the next week or so!  I don't know about you, but I'm so thankful to be able to turn on the lights, pull out my stamps, and create my own sunshine.  Hope your Monday was a good one!
Susan
I'll be off babysitting on Tuesday, but be sure to come back on Wednesday for another classic card.
Thanks for stopping in today!
Susan

A Classic Combination

Hello stamping friends!

It's finally Friday and I'm gearing up for a big event this weekend... my Stamp-a-Stack.  I've got 18 stampers coming over in two different sessions to stamp 8 cards each.  Let's do the math... that's 144 cards that will be made here on Saturday!  Not to worry... the card stock is all cut, the ribbon is ready to go, and this evening I'll be making some yummy snacks for you! 

For the next several weeks, I'm going to be showing you some retiring stamp sets that I have loved, in hopes that you will love them too.  Today's card combines brown and blue... a classic color combination.  There are so many shades of brown and blue that look great together... Crumb Cake and Night of Navy, Early Espresso and Bashful Blue, Soft Suede and Baja Breeze... I could go on and on.  (Speaking of blue, we haven't seen that color in the sky lately!  I think we need to see some very soon!)

My card for you today combines two of my favorite Stampin'Up! colors... Early Espresso, the best brown of all time and the lovely Pool Party.  So grab your cup of coffee and meet me by the pool.





This card was one we made a while back at one of my technique classes.    The stamp set shown here is called Upsy Daisy and can be seen on page 116 of the big catalog.  It is one of the "oldies" that's only available in wood, but it is definitely a "goodie."  The technique is called Striped Wipe.  First let me give you the supply list, then I'll tell you how to create the background.

Stamps:
Upsy Daisy-- retiring
Happiest Birthday Wishes-- this is a hostess set, so it is also retiring, as all hostess sets will be gone.
Note:  There is still time to receive some of this year's wonderful hostess sets absolutely free when you host a stamping party before the end of May.  Send me a quick email and we'll reserve a date for your party!

Ink:
Early Espresso pad
Pool Party refill
So Saffron refill
Certainly Celery refill

Paper: 
Very Vanilla
Early Espresso
Pool Party
Glossy White Card Stock

Accessories:
Petals-a-Plenty embossing folder for the Big Shot
Scallop Circle Punch
1 3/8 inch Circle Punch

OK, now that you have all the ingredients, let me tell you how to cook up this pretty card.
Tools you'll need: 
Baby Wipes
stiff cardboard
Clips or clothespins (I use binder clips... those metal clips that hold multiple pages together)
scrap paper

First, cut the glossy card stock to the size you need.  Put a small piece of double stick tape on the back of it and attach it to the scrap paper, as you don't want it to move while you're working on it.

Next, take a couple of baby wipes and fold them in half.  Attach them to the stiff cardboard so that they are covering the edge of the cardboard.  Using the ink refills, apply a stripe of each color along the edge of the baby wipe.

Pull the baby wipe over the glossy card stock to create the striped background.  You can go over the glossy card stock more than once to make the color darker.  Just be sure te re-align your stripes each time.  You can create all sorts of effects this way... an ocean scene (Crumb Cake for the sand, Baja Blue for the water) a sunset ( Tangerine Tango at the bottom, then maybe a little So Saffron, fading up to Pink Pirouette).  Experiment with this... it is easy and fun! Then when I was finished with the striped background, I just inked up my Upsy Daisy stamp and stamped over it in Early Espresso.

Well, stamping friends, I must go and tackle my list... it's a pretty long one today.  Enjoy your Friday and I'll see you back here at The Classic Card on Monday.

Happy Weekend!
Susan

A sad farewell to many old friends...

Hello Stampers and Welcome to Wednesday!

For the next few weeks, I'll be focusing on saying a proper farewell to lots of my favorite stamp sets which are now leaving forever.  I've had many of these sets in my stamp collection for several years and I'm sorry to say that some of them haven't seen the light of day for a while.  The new stamps come out and I get all excited about them and forget some of my old buddies which are languishing in my cupboards.  Do you do that too? 

Before I get to today's card, let me remind you that I just sent out the Retired Accessories List in an email.  You will notice that it is LONG... 12 pages to be exact!  At the beginning of the list are two and a half pages of discounted items, so definitely check those out!  If you are needing In-Color refills for the retiring In-Colors (Blushing Bride, Concord Crush, Pear Pizzazz, Poppy Parade, or Peach Parfait), get those right away.  I just placed an order and unfortunately, the Peach Parfait refills are already gone! 

OK... now to the card

Remember this set, Awash with Flowers?  I still love this set and it is one that I'm really sorry is retiring.  I love the whimsical flowers.  No, they aren't very realistic, but that is what makes them charming!   You can find this set on page 110 of the big catalog. 

This bright card was made by one of my downline members, Janet Jones. Whenever we swap cards, I always love Janet's, possibly because Janet and I see eye-to-eye on card design.  We're both big fans of the clean and simple style of stamping, but that doesn't mean our cards are boring---far from it!  Here's a quick list of what Janet used to create this summery card:

Stamps: 
Awash With Flowers  (retiring)
Friendly Phrases
Ink:
Melon Mambo
Tangerine Tango
Chocolate Chip
Pear Pizzazz (for sponging around the sentiment)
Pear Pizzazz Marker (for coloring the stems and leaves)
Paper:
Poppy Parade (retiring)
Pear Pizzazz (retiring)
Very Vanilla
Accessories:
Pear Pizzazz Poly Stitched Ribbon (retiring)
Scallop Oval Punch
Elegant Lines Embossing Folder for the Big Shot
Dimensionals

I'm off to Curves for the Wednesday Workout!  After that I'm going to be busily preparing for my big Stamp-a-Stack coming up this Saturday.  The morning session is full, but I still have 4 openings in the afternoon session from 1-4pm.  Why not get a group of friends together, go out for lunch, and then afterwards come over to my house and stamp away the afternoon.  You'll make 8 cards (with envelopes) for only $15 and I'm giving away door prizes AND a stamp set at each session.  Email me to save your spot(s). 
Thanks for stopping in today!  Please come back on Friday for another classic card.
Susan

Onward and Upward!

Hello stampers!

The weeks are flying by at warp speed and soon the school year will be over.  Then it will be time for graduations and graduation parties and you know you're going to need some cards.  So let's get started on them now, while there's still plenty of time.

Today's card features a cute little birdie that is flying the nest and moving onward and upward to new adventures.  What a perfect card for a boy or girl graduate!  Don't forget to use their school colors for your card... that will make it much more personal.

Check it out!

Isn't that owl the cutest ever?  I received this card as a swap at a recent demonstrator meeting. Unfortunately, the creator of this card didn't add her name to the back of the card.  I think Virginia
Mattfield was the demonstrator that made this, but I'm not sure.  Let me give you a quick run through of the colors and supplies used.

Stamps:
Word Play
Note:  the star wheel she used for the background is no longer available.  There is a builder wheel called "So Many Stars,( #118620) that you could use for the background of stars. Or maybe you have a star stamp somewhere in your stash. 
Ink:
Basic Black
Paper: 
Cherry Cobbler
Daffodil Delight
Basic Black
Whisper White
Pumpkin Pie (for the owl's little tiny feet)
Accessories:
Owl Builder Punch
Scallop Circle Punch (cut one circle in half for his wings, so it looks like he's flying)
White Signo Gel Pen  ( for his eyes and buttons)
White Baker's twine to hold his diploma closed (dye it by swiping it over the ink pad of your choice.  Hint--- use a sponge to hold it down onto the pad as you pull the twine over the pad.  That way your fingers will stay clean.)

Hope you like this card as much as I do!  Have a great Tuesday and don't forget to stamp something pretty today!
Susan

Sunny Monday!!!!

Hello Stampers!
Isn't it a welcome change to be starting off the work week with a sunny Monday?  I can't count the number of Mondays that I looked out my stamp room window and what greeted me was a cold, wet, wind-whipped scene.  This morning, through my open window I see blue sky, green leaves, a tree covered in pink blossoms, some gorgeous red tulips, and sunshine!  All I can say is hallelujah!

I've got a friend coming over today to do work on this blog.  There are some things that need changing, so I just wanted to warn you that The Classic Card will be "under construction" in the next couple of days and I may not be posting.  So if I don't show up here tomorrow morning... no worries! I'll be back soon!

I think we all know that this glorious weather is not the start of our famed Northwest summer, but just a short break to keep us sane until summer arrives.  So today, in honor of our sunny weather, I've got a summery card for you.  Check it out...

If you haven't done so already, maybe it's time to eat an ice cream cone before the sun hides his face again.  I love sitting on the porch in the evening just watching the world go by and what could improve that experience more than a yummy ice cream cone?    I received this fun card as a swap at a demonstrator meeting I attended recently.  This cute card was made by the very talented Linda Sullivan.  Let me give you a quick list of the products Linda used to create her summery card.

Stamps:
Create a Cupcake (for the sprinkles on the cupcake)

Ink: 
Early Espresso

Paper: 
Calypso Coral
Wisteria Wonder
Whisper White
Early Espresso
Pink Pirouette (for the ice cream)
Crumb Cake (for the cone)
Berry Blossoms Designer Paper

Accessories: 
Wisteria Wonder ruffled ribbon
Stripes Embossing Folder for the Big Shot
Square Lattice Embossing Folder for the Big Shot
Cupcake Builder Punch
Dimensionals

I know you have plenty of things on your "to-do" list for today, but I'd like to add a couple of things to it... #1  Get out in the sunshine... even if just for a few minutes
           #2  Stamp something pretty and send it off
           #3  Eat some ice cream
          
Happy Monday everyone!
Susan

Friday Flowers

Happy Friday, Stampers!
Welcome back to The Classic Card!

It is going be be a full weekend of stamping for me... my "Designing the Perfect Card" class on Saturday and then a party on Sunday afternoon.  It will be busy, but that's the way I like it!  I have had one cancellation for my card design class, so email me at sjrstamps@gmail.com if you'd like to take that one spot.  You'll get a wealth of handouts, ideas, and tips-- plus you'll make two great cards which illustrate what you learned. The cost is $15 or free with a $40 purchase.
I hope all of you have a busy, fun weekend planned too! 

If you get a minute, you might want to sit down with your catalog and make a list of those accessories you'd like to get before they are gone.
 On April 25th the retired accessories list comes out.  After that, you might only have a couple of days to get the Designer Paper, ink refills, ribbon, button, etc. that you want before Stampin'Up! runs out.  We know for certain that all of the Designer Papers will go... they discontinue everything each year.  We know that all of the retiring In-Color products will be gone (Concord Crush, Pear Pizzazz, Blushing Bride, Peach Parfait, and Poppy Parade), so don't wait to get these.  If there is ribbon you like, please get it now, as that will disappear quickly as well.  In short, my message to you is that if you know you want a particular accessory, please order it before the 25th.  Once the list comes out, people go into frenzy mode and I cannot guarantee that you'll be able to purchase what you want.  Every year I have customers that are so disappointed that they missed getting a favorite designer paper or other accessory.  The discontinued stamp sets are guaranteed to be available until May 30th, since Stampin'Up! manufactures their own stamps,  but the accessories are "only while supplies last."
OK, now that those details are out of the way, let's get back to the reason you came here today!
Today's card focuses on a classic stamp set "Fifth Avenue Floral" that will soon be gone forever.  This set makes great collage cards which are so easy to create and turn out so pretty.  I'll show you one of those in a future post.  But for now,  please check out this beauty...



Aren't those lillies just gorgeous?  I received this fabulous swap at one of the recent demonstrator meetings I attended.  It was stamped by the very talented Cheryl Brown. 
Let me give you a list of what Cheryl used to create this beautiful card.

Stamps: 
Fifth Avenue Floral
Bring on the Cake (for the sentiment)

Ink: 
I'm guessing here, as Cheryl didn't provide a list on the back of the card, but I believe she used Rose Red for both the sentiment and the flowers
Rose Red Stamp Pad (for the sentiment and the sponging on the flowers)
Rose Red Marker (for the dots on the flowers)
Versamark Pad

Paper: 
Perfect Plum
Certainly Celery
Whisper White
 Pretty in Pink

Accessories:
Heat gun
White embossing powder
Little Leaves sizzlet for the Big Shot
Square Lattice embossing folder for the Big Shot
Scallop Border Punch
Sponge
Paper Snips (small, extremely sharp scissors that SU sells, perfect for detailed cutting)

To make the gorgeous lillies, here's what I would do.  First stamp two lillies on Whisper White card stock with Versamark ink.  Then sprinkle on the white embossing powder, tap off the excess, and heat until the image is raised and shiny.  Using a small sponge and the Rose Red stamp pad, drag some color along each petal.  Add the spots with the Rose Red marker. Then cut out each flower with the Paper Snips and adhere them to the card so that they are slightly overlapping.  Simple, but stunning!

The weather man has been promising us a nice weekend and I sure hope he hasn't changed his mind again!  For today, it looks like we're going to have to create our own sunshine, so pull out the stamps, turn up the lights, and stamp away the blues!  Happy weekend, everyone!
Susan

Peach Parfaits by the Pool

Hello stampers and welcome to Wednesday!

I'm busily getting ready for the Designing the Perfect Card class on Saturday, but wanted to take a few minutes out of my preparations to serve you a peach parfait by the pool.  You can rest assured that if I did have a pool, I would be serving you all sorts of things around it... iced tea, lemonade, and yummy snacks too.  Wouldn't it be fun to stamp outside on an umbrella table by a pool?  Then if we got too warm we could take a dip!  You can see where my mind is going.... ah, summertime! 

OK, let's get back to reality and back to today's card.  It really does have a connection to the above thoughts because it features the retiring color Peach Parfait combined with the continuing color Pool Party.  I apologize that some of you have seen this card before, as it has been used at a workshop.  However most of you haven't seen it, and since Peach Parfait is going away at the end of May, I wanted to show it to everyone.

Check it out....

Peach Parfait is such a nice warm color... I'm really going to miss it!  It is not as saturated as Pumpkin Pie and mixes well with colors in the Subtles family.  Try it with So Saffron and Pink Pirouette for a summery color scheme.  Or mix it with Pear Pizzazz and Not Quite Navy for a more masculine look.  There's a lot you can do with Peach Parfait and I'm so sorry to see it go.  Be sure to stock up on card stock, ink refills, and ribbon before it is discontinued.  Then you can enjoy Peach Parfait for many years to come.
Let 's go over what I used to make this card.

Stamps:
Mixed Bunch
Occasions Alphabet (Check this one out on page 171 of the big catalog.  It has great sayings for just about any occasion you can think of and the images fit easily into the Scalloped Oval Punch, the Extra Large Oval Punch, and the Decorative Label Punch).
The faint pattern on the Very Vanilla framelit panel was stamped with the Fresh Vintage stamp set that is no longer available, as it was a Sale-a-bration set.  You could use any background set instead. Just be sure to "stamp off" before stamping on the panel.
 
Ink:
Peach Parfait (for the faint background on the focal panel)
Early Espresso

Paper:
Very Vanilla
Peach Parfait
Pool Party
Lucky Limeaid

Accessories:
Finial Press embossing folder for the Big Shot
Peach Parfait ribbon
Blossom Punch
3/4 inch Circle Punch
Label Framelit for the Big Shot
Sponge
Dimensionals

If you don't already own the fabulous Mixed Blossom set, be sure to get it before April 30th, when the Occasions Mini Catalog expires.  We're all hoping it will appear in the new catalog, but no one knows for sure.  This is the best new flower set we've had in a long time and the 3 different flower patterns make it incredibly versatile. 

Well, stamping friends, it's back to the paper cutter for me!  I'll be rockin' out to tunes on Pandora while I cut, cut, cut for the card design class, the Stamp-a-Stack AND the big Retirement Party on Cinco de Mayo (that's May 5th to you).   You'll be getting an evite for that soon!
Thanks for stopping by today.  I'll miss you tomorrow, as I'll be babysitting, but don't forget to come back on Friday for another classic card!
Happy stamping!
Susan

K .I. S. S. (Keep it Simple, Stamper!)

Hello Stampers!  Happy Tuesday and thanks for stopping in today!

I think all of you know by now that my favorite stamping style falls into the "clean and simple" category.  Every once in a while I'll go for a sort of vintage-y look, but not often. And while I admire the work of others who've adopted a "more is more" philosophy, somehow that style just isn't me.  Since I'm mainly designing cards for Stampin'Up! workshops, I have to keep it simple.  Otherwise I'd go broke supplying all of the rhinestones, pearls, hardware,  and other fancy embellishments, plus there just isn't time at a stamping party to make cards with lots of detail and fussy techniques.  I strive to hit a nice balance with my cards... pretty color combinations, a pleasing layout, some texture, possibly some designer paper, and then a simple embellishment or two such as brads, ribbon, and perhaps even some pearls or rhinestones. 

If you are wondering about card design and how to make it easier to come up with your own designs, I have just the class for you!  It's called Designing the Perfect Card and it is coming up this Saturday, April 21st at 10:30 am at my house.  The cost is $15, or free with a $40 purchase.  You'll learn the theory behind designing an eye-pleasing visual image and you'll go home with a folder of handouts that will make your designing process so much easier.  I have 4 spots left... so if you'd like to attend and bring a friend, please let me know at sjrstamps@gmail.com

Let's move forward to today's card.  I stamped this as a make-and-take at a recent demonstrator meeting.  While I was blog surfing one night, I came across an almost identical card on Sandi Maciver's site, so I guess whoever brought that make-and-take got their inspiration from Sandi.
I just want to give credit where credit is due.    Anyway, here's the card...

As you can see, this is a white-on-white creation.  That automatically gives cards a clean and simple look.  Uh Oh!  It's the Bright Blossoms and Summer Smooches stuff again and I said we were finished with it.  I guess "not quite finished" would have been a more accurate statement.

Here's a quick list of the ingredients:

Stamps:
Bright Blossoms
Sincere Salutations (this set will retire at the end of May, so you might want to get it before it is gone)

Ink:
Island Indigo, Cherry Cobbler, Daffodil Delight, and Old Olive Markers (for coloring directly on the flowers)
Island Indigo stamp pad

Paper:
Whisper White
Summer Smooches Designer Paper

Accessories:
Eyelet border punch
Stripes embossing folder for the Big Shot

This type of design makes the perfect thank you note and can be stamped in just a few minutes.  In fact, a card like this should take no more than 10 minutes to create from start to finish. Why not sit down today and make a few simple thank-you notes?  Then you'll be prepared the next time you need one.
That's it for today, friends.  I've got a squillion things to do today, so I've got to run. I hope you'll come back tomorrow for another classic card.  In the meantime, have a great day!
Happy stamping,
Susan

Sunshine on a Cloudy Day

Before I get started with today's post, I want to remind you that the Retired List was announced yesterday, April 15th. I sent everyone an email yesterday with the list as an attachment.  If you are a blog reader who did not receive the list, please let me know by emailing me at sjrstamps@gmail.com  and I'll make sure you get one.  You only have until May 31st to get these sets.  After that they are gone forever.  And now, back to the blog...

Hello Stamping Friends!  Welcome back to The Classic Card.
I enjoyed a great weekend full of family, guests, and entertaining and now it is back to reality!  And the reality is that it is raining. Again.

Here's a thought I ran across that I'd like to share with all of you:

"It is the artist's business to create sunshine when the sun fails."
                                         Romain Rolland
                                         French dramatist, novelist, essayist and art historian
                                         Awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1915

So that, my friends, is what we are going to do today.  We stamp artists are going to be about the business of creating sunshine, because the sun has most certainly failed us today!  With our stamps, ink, paper, accessories, and our raw artistic talent, we are going to conjure up a sunny day.  Please join me in this endeavor.  And to help you along with this task, I've got a card that might inspire you.  Take a peek...

How's this for a sunny spring-like card?  It makes me feel happier just looking at it!   Let me give you a quick list of the stamps and supplies I used to create my own sunshine.

Stamps:

Forever Young

Pursuit of Happiness

Ink:

Always Artichoke (for the tree)

Early Espresso (for the sentiment)

So Saffron and Pretty in Pink stamp pads (for sponging)



Paper:
Whisper White
So Saffron
Pear Pizzazz

Accessories:
Pear Pizzazz Seam Binding
Perfect Polka Dots Embossing Folder
Scallop Circle #2 for the Big Shot
2 1/2 inch Circle Punch
Sponges
Dimensionals

Now I'm going to take my sunshine-deprived self off to Curves for my Monday workout.  I hope all of you will take 15 minutes or so to create something fun, something pretty, or something sunny to send out into the world today.  Thanks for stopping in today and don't forget to come back tomorrow for more stamping inspiration.
Thinking sunny thoughts,
Susan

One Last "Smooch"

Hello Stampers and Happy Friday.

I'm excited that the weekend is almost here!  We've got company coming in from out of town and it is going to be a busy weekend for me.  I'm sure you know the routine... clean, cook, clean up, cook some more, take them to see the local sights, more cleaning and cooking and then after they leave--- laundry! 
I love having company--- don't love all of the work so much, though.  I used to think I'd like to have my own Bed and Breakfast, but the older I get the less attractive it sounds, unless I could hire someone to change the sheets and do all that laundry.  Oh, and I'd have to find someone to come in and cook breakfast too, since I don't like to get up early.  On second thought, I think I'll stick with Stampin'Up!... it's so fun that even when I'm working it doesn't feel like work!

Today I have another card for you featuring the Summer Smooches product suite that you can purchase as a "sneak peek" from the new annual catalog that will be coming out June 1st.  I'm not guaranteeing that this will be the last card you'll ever see with these products, but after a solid week of showing them, I think I'm almost finished.  How about you?  Are you bored with them yet? 
This sweet and simple card was made by my talented downline member Kathy Milano.  Take a look...



This card is like a sunny summer day... something we could all enjoy right now.  Let me give you a very quick list of the products Kathy used before I run off to finish my cleaning and preparations for the weekend ahead.
Stamps:
Mixed Bunch
Teeny Tiny Wishes (for the sentiment)
Ink: 
Daffodil Delight
Pumpkin Pie
Island Indigo
Paper: 
Whisper White
Daffodil Delight
Old Olive
Summer Smooches Designer Paper
Accessories:
Blossom Punch
1" Circle Punch
Word Window Punch
Cherry Cobbler Seam Binding
White Baker's Twine
Dimensionals

I  love cards like this because with a quick change of sentiment, it could be used for so many different occasions.  I'm sure we all know several people who could use a boost or a hug about now, so why not take a few minutes today to make a pretty card and send it out?  You can add sunshine and joy to someone's life and it won't take you more than a few minutes!

Let's think "sunshine" for the weekend!  Whatever you have planned, may you enjoy a relaxing and rejuvenating Saturday and Sunday.  I hope you'll rejoin me on Monday at The Classic Card, where I'll have more stamping inspiration for you.
Happy weekend!
Susan

Let's Tango!

Hello Stampers!  Thanks for returning to The Classic Card to see what I have for you today!  It doesn't look too promising out there, I must admit.  Things look a little gray and drippy!  Thankfully, the clump of birch trees that I see out my stamp room window are starting to get their summer "clothing," although right now it looks like just a bit of green lace.  Hopefully they'll be fully dressed in their summer outfit before too long.  That will be so much prettier to look at than the brown sticks that have been whipping around in the winter winds!

Since Mr. Sun doesn't seem to be cooperating with my plan today, I guess we'll have to supply our own Wednesday warmth with some Tangerine Tango.  This pretty card was made by one of my downline members, Mary Colvin.  I received it as a swap at a recent demonstrator meeting.  It also features the new Summer Smooches product suite (anybody see a trend here?) that you can purchase from now until the end of April.  Here's the card:

And here's a quick list of the products Mary used to create this simple but pretty card:

Stamps:
Bright Blossoms
A Word for You
Ink:
Island Indigo and Wild Wasabi markers
Basic Black pad
Paper:
Whisper White
Tangerine Tango
Summer Smooches Designer Paper
Accessories:
Basic Rhinestones
Daffodil Delight Taffeta Ribbon
Corner Rounder punch
Dimensionals

If you are not a regular reader of The Oregonian, you may have missed the articles about Tangerine Tango being the color of the year. "It's been called invigorating, dramatic, and seductive, but only neophytes dare call it merely orange." Tangerine Tango (just a coincidence that they picked the same name as Stampin'Up!) was recently declared "2012's color of the year by Pantone, a leading color forecasting firm.  Tangerine Tango marries the vivaciousness and adrenaline rush of red with the friendliness and warmth of yellow.  The result?  A high-visibility, magnetic hue that emanates heat and energy."  I don't know about you, but heat and energy sound good to me today!  If you don't already have a good supply of Tangerine Tango card stock, ink, etc., now might be a good time to order some.  Placing an order for some pretty paper and ink will be a LOT easier than learning the tango... aren't you relieved?!?
OK, stampers, I'm off to Curves for the Wednesday workout!  I hope you'll find a bit of time to pull out your stamps and stamp something pretty today.  Please meet me back here on Friday (Thursday is babysitting day) for more stamping inspiration.
Happy stamping!
Susan

My Favorite Trio...

Hello stamping friends!
Welcome to Tuesday and another post at The Classic Card.  I'm running off to the dentist this morning for my check-up, but before I go I'm going to post something to inspire you.  This is another card that I received at a recent swap with my fellow demonstrators and I love it because it features my three favorite colors... red, yellow, and green.  If you haven't already noticed, every room in my house has one or more of these colors in it.  I was trying to capture the feeling of a sunny day and although that is hard to do here in the Northwest, I much prefer these bright and warm colors to the grays, blues, and browns that many others seem to use in their homes.  I know those colors are more neutral and perhaps they are safer choices, but since I live here, I'm going for what I like--- which is warm and sunny!

This clean and simple card was stamped by Lynn Baskin.  In addition to the colors she used, I love the square format.  You know me... I'm not a huge fan of the rectangular card that has the fold on the left and I'm always on the lookout for a different shape or fold.  Check out Lynn's great card:

Here's a very quick list of what Lynn used to create this summery card:

Stamps:
Bright Blossoms*
Ink: 
Real Red, Old Olive, and Daffodil Delight markers
Paper:
Whisper White
Daffodil Delight
Real Red
Old Olive
Summer Smooches Designer Paper*
Accessories:
Stripes embossing folder for the Big Shot
Old Olive grosgrain ribbon
Postage Stamp Punch
* Sneak Peek items in the Summer Smooches product suite, available until April 30th

You might be wondering, does Stampin'Up! have a small square punch that fits inside the Postage Stamp shape?   I checked the "big" catalog and didn't find one, so unless one is lurking inside a mini-catalog somewhere, I would have to say no.  Perhaps we'll get one when the new catalog comes out  June 1st.  Speaking of June 1st and the new catalog... have you booked your June or July party yet?
Those are two of the best months to host, as everyone is excited to get the newest stamps and accessories... not to mention the new In-Colors. 

Well, I've definitely got to run... don't want to be late for my appointment!  Thanks for stopping by today and I hope you'll come back tomorrow for another classic card!
Have a great Tuesday!
Susan

More Bright Blossoms

Hello Stampers and Welcome Back!
 Were you wondering if I'd ever get back to blogging?  I don't want you to think I was just lounging around the house, eating bon-bons.  Nooooo!  That was not the case at all!  I was a very busy mom and grandmother as I cooked, cleaned, picked up, read stories, and cleaned up some more from one end of the weekend to the other. The house was full of Easter eggs, jelly beans, chocolate bunnies, and fuzzy bunny ears... not to mention four grandchildren.  It was fun, but a bit tiring too!  The Seattle troops left yesterday around noon and we almost have the house back together again.

Wasn't the sunshine over the weekend just glorious?!? I think that's the only sunny Easter we've had within recent memory.  I hope you got out in it and let old Mr. Golden Sun shine down on you!  If he could just stay with us a little longer, I would be extremely grateful.  Speaking of sunshine... here's another sunny card for you, using the new catalog "sneak peek" set Bright Blossoms. 

This cute "quilted" card was made by the talented Joyce Keefe, a demonstrator friend.  I received this card in a swap I participated in recently.  Don't you love the quilt panel?  If you'd like to make a card like this, book a party with me and I'll show you how easy it is to make a quilt card.  And no, you don't cut out a lot of little squares and then glue them together.... it is much easier than that!

Here's a quick run down of the supplies Joyce used to create this fun card:

Stamps:
Bright Blossoms*
Ink:
Real Red, Island Indigo, and Old Olive markers
Paper:
Daffodil Delight, Real Red, Island Indigo, and Whisper White card stock
Summer Smooches Designer Paper (for the quilted panel)*
Accessories:
Daffodil Delight seam binding*
Lattice Square embossing folder for the Big Shot
Basic Pearls
*  indicates items in the Summer Smooches Suite that are a sneak peek from the new catalog.  These products will be available for purchase until the end of April. Then you'll see them again in June when the new catalog comes out.

Have you signed up for my card design class yet? It is coming up on Saturday April 21st at 10:30 am at my house.  After the instructional part of the class is over, you'll make two cards and enjoy some treats and of course there'll be some prizes given away as well. Don't miss out on this chance to learn some tips and tricks to make desiging cards a breeze.  You'll get some great hand-outs to take home that will prove to be a big help as well.  To join the class, just email me or respond to the evite I sent earlier.  Because it is very time-consuming to prepare for a class like this,  payment in advance is required. Your $15 check holds your spot.

It's a fresh new week and it looks like we'll see the sun in between the showers, so that is a happy thing!  Thanks for stopping by today and I'll see you back here tomorrow for another classic card.
Happy Monday!
Susan

More Summer Smooches

Hello stamping friends!  Sorry I didn't "see" you yesterday, but I was off doing my grandmotherly duty, babysitting the adorable Allie.

If you visited on Monday, you heard about the sneak peek products from the upcoming new catalog (out June 1st this year).  This particular group (or "suite" in Stampin'Up! speak) has been named "Summer Smooches" for some reason that I can't quite fathom.  Perhaps it's because they look like they've been kissed by the sun???  I'm not sure why they gave these products such a strange name, but that doesn't change the fact that they are very pretty indeed.  Clear, strong, and warm, these colors  remind me of a summer day at the beach with brightly colored kites soaring in the breeze against an impossibly blue sky.  Aaahh... doesn't that sound good?  Imagine that warm sand as you wiggle your toes! 

OK, now that I have you in the mood for something bright and sunny, here is today's card---

I made this card for a demonstrator meeting I'm attending tonight, where we'll be swapping cards with a summery theme, using the new Summer Smooches products.  Let me give you a quick run-down of what I used.

Stamps:
Bright Blossoms*
A Word for You (for the sentiment)
Ink: 
Island Indigo stamp pad
Island Indigo, Daffodil Delight, and Old Olive markers.
Paper: 
Summer Smooches Designer Paper*
Island Indigo card stock
Daffodil Delight card stock
Whisper White card stock
Accessories:
Scallop Circle #2 Die for the Big Shot
Perfect Polka Dots embosssing folder for the Big Shot
2 3/8 inch Scallop Circle Punch
1 3/4 inch Circle Punch
Daffodil Delight Seam Binding*
Dimensionals
(* these are available April 1st through 30th only, then will reappear in June in the new catalog)
If you'd like to bring some sunny warmth into your life, you can order these pretty products now through the end of April.  I've sent you a flyer with all of the products pictured, along with their item numbers and prices.  If you need me to re-send it to you, please let me know. 

I'd like to say that I'll be back tomorrow with another classic card for you, but that is not the case.  The Seattle branch of the family is coming for Easter, so the house will be filled with the pitter-patter of little (and not-so-little) feet.  It has been a long time since they last visited, so we are excited to see them.  May you have a wonderful Easter celebration as well!  Don't forget to come back on Monday, when I will have some more new classic cards for you!
Happy Stamping and Happy Easter!
Susan

New Month, New Goodies!

Good day, Stampers!  Welcome back to The Classic Card! 

I'm always happy to turn the calendar page to a fresh new month, how about you?  I'm hopeful that April, May, and June will bring us some spring-like weather with a lot more sun than we saw in January, February, and March.  I'm thrilled that the daffodils are up everywhere, trees are blossoming, and that the trees by the pond are beginning to leaf-out.  The birds have begun their crazy spring antics too!  I even see a bit of sun out there as well, so I'm hoping we have turned the page on winter.  I can't wait to get out my sandals and cropped pants... I'm just a summer girl at heart!

To add a little spice to the month of April, Stampin'Up! is giving us a sneak peek of some new products that will be featured as the "Summer Smooches" product suite in the new catalog, which comes out June 1st.  What a silly name for some very pretty products!  I think Stampin'Up! might need my help when they are trying to come up with names for their products.  I sent out an email yesterday, April 1st, with the Summer Smooches flyer attached showing you these items.  If you didn't receive the email, check your spam box as it may have ended up there.
Today's bright and summery card was designed by B Schreiber, a fellow demonstrator, and we made it at one of our monthly Stamp2gethers.  It features the new stamp set "Bright Blossoms", some of the new Summer Smooches designer paper, and some new Daffodil Delight seam binding.  Check it out...

Doesn't this remind you of a warm and sunny summer day?    Let me give you a quick list of the products used to create this little bit of summer:

Stamps:
Bright Blossoms ( 125497, $12.95)

Paper:
Cherry Cobbler (for the base of the card)
Tangerine Tango
Daffodil Delight
Whisper White
Summer Smooches Designer Paper (125409, $10.95)

Ink:
Old Olive
Daffodil Delight
Cherry Cobbler
Tangerine Tango
Rich Razzleberry
note-- we colored directly on the stamps with markers

Accessories:
Designer Frames embossing folder
Daffodil Delight seam binding (125583, $ 6.95)
Brights designer buttons

These products are only available until April 30th.  Then you'll be able to order them again once the new catalog is out June 1st.  The fabric brads (not shown on this card)  will not be in the new catalog, so you need to get those before April 30th.
I'm sure you know someone who'd love to receive a bright and happy card like this, so get out your stamps today and make a pretty card and then send it off!  That way, there'll be two happier people in the world---the sender and the receiver! 
Thanks for stopping by today!
Happy stamping,
Susan