They can't all be your favorites!

Of course they can't! This card is for sure not one of my favorites, but I finished it and am glad I did!  This is a clear case of taste.  I had sketched out a vision of this card and while I felt it was plummeting to the earth in a blaze of ugly I went ahead and tried to salvage the wreckage.  I finished it and while it is still not my favorite, it is for sure loved by another.  I showed it to my husband and he really liked it.  I was making faces at him and he reminded me that I often am too hard on  myself.  I am posting my photo of this card not because I love it, but because it made me grow.  As my hubby reminded me "They can't all be your favorites, but they will bless someone else."  Such a sage man I married.  If you love or even like this card please do give me a shout out.

Here we go OH and instead of linking all of them (that makes the internet think I am a bad person that would give you a virus-- I just have lots of links  I will just link HERE to my website if you want to order something!

Supply List.
Whisper White Thick Cardstock
Delightful Daffodil Cardstock
Basic Black Cardstock
Softly Falling Texture Embossing Folder
Big Shot with platform
Going Global Stamp Set
Be The Star Bundle Stamp Set & Dies
Circle Collection Framelits
Stampin' Dimension
Rhinestone Jewels
Craft Whisper White Craft ink
Delightful Daffodil Ink Pad
Night of Navy Ink Pad

If you gather it all up it will look like this:

 

  

 

Paper PUMPKIN in the HOUUUUSE

 That is right friends!  Paper Pumpkin is in the HOUSE!! I love when I go to my mailbox, open it up and see that cute little red (orange - depending on who you ask)  box just sitting there waiting for a fun night of stampin!  It makes me almost giddy!  So this month Stampin' Up!  did a beautiful job with a fun trendy medium  CHALKBOARD!  it is everywhere and if you didn't know this already SU sells amazing Chalkboard paper.  It is even on SALE!  I love the texture it takes the Craft Whisper White ink just beautifully! I was super happy to find that you can get it in the clearance section right now.. only $3.19  THAT is a super great value!  Click HERE to see it on the site.  ALSO You can join Paper Pumpkin for 50% off your first 2 months.. that is just awesome!  I know once you get the first box you will be HOOKED!  Please be sure you designate me as your demonstrator (Erika Hayes Glendale, AZ 85308).

OK so enough of that... I wanted to share peeks of the newest addition to what I call P cubed (Paper Pumpkin Party).  You will see here a shot of the kit opened and the cute stamps but its not JUST cards this month friends!  Look closely and you can see great gift boxes -- yes they are included in the box! As ALWAYS everything is in the box! Your first month you even get an acrylic block!  That my friends means even if you don't want to become as crazy of a stamper as I am you can join Paper Pumpkin and every month get a little box of happiness complete and ready to go!  The other great thing for crazy stampers  you get a chance to try some of the product you may have wanted to try but not sure if you want to invest in the goodies. This month the Whisper White Craft Ink Pad is a good example.  It is not really that it is expensive, but you may have said "Oh I want to get THAT" but just forget to order it. (I do that all the time)  Paper Pumpkin gives you a sample of the best products and EXCLUSIVE stamp sets!  EVERY month so what do you really have to lose?  You get 2 months at 50% off.. so its like BOGO really!  Oh and no long term commitments.  If (which I doubt) you decide you want to take a break, just cancel.

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BACK TO THIS MONTH'S KIT:

I really hope you can see the stunning color palette  too!  Yes that is yummy gold foil!  It is perfectly combined with a blushing pink, white and of course chalkboard black!
 All the element are so beautiful this month.  I just love that I get to make some fun flowers and have a few great boxes for little gifts for --- wait for it... YES.. HOLIDAY gifts!  Its hard to believe but true!  The Season is sneaking ever so close.  I am also excited to share I have many workshops planned for the holiday season.  I hope you can join me for one or more. If you sign up for 3 you get $15 in SU products for FREE!  I am working with my TEAM to put together dates and times so be sure to check back soon!

NEED some EXTRA income with the holiday season sneaking so close?  Why not join my team and have support as you start a career in the glorious world of paper arts!  We are more than just a group of Stampin' Up! Demonstrators we are a family.  We are working as a team to improve our lives doing that thing we all have in common.... CREATING.  I do not ever leave a downline to do it all alone.  I am here for you to help you build a successful business.  I offer training EVERY WEEK!  So if you are interested in becoming a part of the MAKIN' PRETTY THINGS Team give me a shout.  I am here to make it as easy as possible.  Hobbyist or as a Career, we can make it happen for you!  Email me with questions: gzuswins@gmail.com

Blessing Friends
Erika

Makin'PrettyThings - Challenge Wednesday

You all know I was super excited about the Weekly special tag punch, well I ordered it!  I don't have it yet but I was so inspired by the taggy-ness that I decided that will be our challenge today!

Here is what I came up with....

Here is what I am thinking.... 

This challenge is to create a project -- card/scrapbook page/ mini album 

that is using at least THREE tags.  

NOW for the sample card I made it is a really simple technique.  I simply used washi tape to adhere the three tags together and then stamped on the other side! The fun is you can do sooo many things with this technique to create a scene or as in the case of our sample card break up a solid image for visual interest.    SO have fun!  Post an image in your comments or on facebook and tag me Erika Hayes.  Be sure to keep an eye open for the workshops coming up.  These techniques will be incorporated.  All my workshops are open to anyone.  If you are out of state, you can order the kits to complete one or all of the projects we make in any of my workshops.  Remember you can always join my team and become a part of the creative process.  

Our challenges will be posted on most Wednesdays.  Prizes will be mailed once a month (otherwise I will be at the post every week)  I hope you enjoy, play along and are able to share this blog with friends and like minded artist!  

 I will add all the names to a hat and draw a winner for a fun envelope of goodies! I am excited to see what you make. 

Supplies used in Challenge Card - ALL Stampin' Up! Products are available HERE

Tags - Recollections 

Whisper White Heavy Cardstock Stampin! Up!Basic Black Cardstock  Stampin' Up! You've Got This Stamp Set - Stampin' Up!Memento Ink - Tux Black available through Stampin' Up!Mint Macroon - Stampin' Up! 
Cherry Cobbler Extra Thick Bakers Twine - Stampin' Up!

Copic Markers to color image

Just a quick post

FIRST THINGS FIRST: 

When I moved, I knew we had found a resort-style living.  BIG spacious yard, pool, fruit trees I love that I look out from my creative spot and have such a nice green yard. *remember I live in Phoenix*   We love this house and then we met the neighbors!  Our neighbors have made us feel at home since before we moved in.  When we were just looking at the place they came to the fence and just welcomed us in.  We soon found out that they own...wait for it... yes own and operate.... ICE CREAM TRUCKS!! When we moved in (it was 115*)  he came over with a big box of ice cream to help us cool off!  Well ever since that time, whenever we are out he always offers us a Bomb Pop or whatever we want.  I wanted to do something to express my gratitude to our wonderful neighbors and I created this...

Sprinkles of Life (13997) and One Big Meaning (139420)
Simple Masking technique to make the double scoop
Colored with Copic Markers - More on them in August see below 

NEXT UP: 

I buckled down!  I got my planning done so there will actually be content posted every week!  INCLUDING Challenges and product review.  The first part of the month we will focus on reviewing markers, then later in the week I hope to have some tips/techniques on those products.  Eventually I would love to give some stuff away, so be sure to share and help me build the audience  to get the support!  

The schedule will begin the first Monday in August.  (August 3rd).

If everything goes as I plan the schedule will be 

MONDAYS - Product Reviews

TUESDAY - Stampin' Up! Spotlight, this will be the weekly special information

WEDNESDAY - CHALLENGE!

THURSDAY -  Project of the Week

FRIDAY - Alternating Weeks  Design Skills or Techniques *even weeks  Opportunity for my readers *Odd weeks

FINALLY:

Thank you all for your love and support!  I wish I could give each one of you the special treat you deserve.  Stay tuned and take part in the growth of Making Pretty Things and Thinking Through Design!  

Feel Free to leave me your thoughts!  

Blessings Friends

Erika

Paper Pummmmmmmmpkin!

June Paper Pummmmmpkin was delicious....

JULY.. even better!  I am going get some samples up for you ASAP.  

Talk about being on trend!  

here is a HINT of what is to come! 

I know I am such a tease!  Fun stuff on the way ladies.  

If you are not a member of Paper Pumpkin well let's get you signed up!

  Follow this link

Be sure to name me (Erika Hayes, Glendale AZ) as your demonstrator (Demo ID 2150700) .  

It is just so nice to have a project that I know I can complete and kick start my 

creativity!  

Stay tuned....

Photos of the new Paper Pummmmmmpkin up soon

Blessing Friends

Erika 

Not M.I.A just moving!

So some of you know.. I moved!. Yes it happened quickly and I am working hard to get my space back in order so I can get creative again!  I am so happy with our new home.  I am posting a few photos here for you to see.  REMEMBER we are in the process of moving!  I have a few fun cards for you too.

First up some not so great photos of the house.. (remember we are still moving stuff)

My Creative Space

Creative Space looking back to the "office" 

My Office Desk - Looking back at my Creative Table

Family Room 

Kitchen- Still need to put some stuff away

HUGE closet in the Kitchen that has been commandeered for craft stuff!   

YES! We have GREEN!  LOVE the backyard and all the amazing trees!
The fence line is all the way behind the trees!
Soon a batting cage will be occupying that open space! 

From the kitchen doors

Out my kitchen window

 While I have been super busy moving we all know my creative side must escape every now and again.  The day we moved a got a box of goodies from Stampin'Up!  and finally got to use them!  here are a few new creations.

A stand out card.. hahaha

Used some fun techniques on this one.  

Used not only my daubers but fun die cuts too! 

Bokeh Technique. My craft white was not real juicy when I did this card so I will try
again now that I have a refill for it and can make it super awesome

These are a few for the craft shows.  These are very popular used my
Copics to make the backgrounds but it would easily be done
with a watercolor technique and SU inks! 

My days are slowly coming back to normal.  I am working hard to get ready for my upcoming craft events.  If you are interested in joining my team... just shoot me an email. (gzuswins@gmail.com)  and I will get you all set up!  We are looking to expand our team.

Have a great week and Make Pretty Things!

Leave some comments if you please, it sure makes my day to see your thoughts

Blessings

Erika

IN-COLOR

It is time!  We are just weeks away from the catalog launch.  As a demonstrator, I get the privilege of  sneak peeks AND pre-ordering.  With this privilege comes awesome benefits,  I get to show off the new goods a little early.  SU has been so kind to allow us to give sneak peaks.  I am excited to share with you two of the products on the sneak peek list. 1. The IN-COLOR inks and a stamp set.  The new set is called "You've Got This"  it is such a great set to color.  Here is a card I whipped up using the New In-Colors, Mint Macaron, Tip Top Taupe, and Copic Markers that represent the Watermelon Wonder colors.  

Let's not wait any longer here is the first image... the card I got done as soon as I opened the box...

Set: You've Got This
Ink Colors: Tip Top Taupe, Mint Macaron
Cardstock: Tip Top Taupe, Mint Macaron
Colored using Copic Markers R22,R24,R29, YG 91, YG 95, YG97, Y35, Y38

And a shot of the new In Color Ink pads.  

Are you ready for the new catalog?  Let me know if you would like to own one for yourself.  Also keep checking back for more sneaks.  I also am going to have a give away all you have to do to be entered to win is leave a comment and follow my blog.  Share the post for an extra entry. 

Summer Lovin' - Looking to start a club 3 months

Good Afternoon my thoughtful friends!

I am so blessed this week.  My son Brad is home from school, finals are over and I am actually graduating!  I know it is a great start to my Summer!  

Summer always brings out the fun crafty in me because usually my "busyness" slows a bit.  I hope yours does as well!  

I have decided for the next three months I am going to subscribe to Paper Pumpkin and I want to invite you to keep with the simple side of summer and jump in with me.  

Now you are asking.. WHAT is Paper Pumpkin?  Well I am so glad you asked.  Paper Pumpkin is a box full of fun.  Each kit comes with everything you need to complete a project or several cards.  I love it because it allows me to get into my creative mind-set with ease.  I open the box and make something pretty!  It gives me a great project to keep my creating every month right to my door!   I also would love to start a PP club I will call it B.Y. O. PP  *Bring Your Own PaperPumpkin  

If you are interested in joining the BYOPP  let me know asap we will get you all set up!  IF you are out of state join...I will be setting up a cyber meeting space where we will meet once a month to chat and create... a group hangout!  Email me if you have questions. 

If you want to order off my website click here enter the information below.  We will hold the BYOPP party through the summer if we love it we will keep going but this allows you a little time out and about gathering with friends and we can create for a very reasonable price. 

137859

3 months

$59.85

Do you want to see a few first check out these favorites of mine.  All Shook Up (Dec 2014)  Filled with Love (Jan 2015) Framed Love (April 2014) Sweet as Pie (Oct 2014)  These are ones that are still available and adorable. There are many that were sold out.. but yeah.. you get the idea!  Let me know if you are IN.

CLICK HERE to order

Make someones day!

Hello my thoughtful friends!

Today I want to share an idea.  It may seem far fetched at first, you may say. Erika you're a nut.  Well that has already been established. I am indeed a macadamia nut. Okay back on the subject-- Many of you know I love to surprise people with little notes of encouragement. In fact, every year at Christmas time I take a part of our gift giving budget and purchase about 20 or 30 gift cards from different places and simply write-- "I hope you have a great day today"  Blessings from Santa's elves and I leave them on tables in restaurants or have a store employee give them away.  It is my joy to watch as people look around trying to figure out WHO gave them this gift... I love to remain anonymous because my theory works like this:  If you don't know which person gave you the gift card, you must assume it was any one of the people there-- this fosters a better day not just for the receiver, but it also makes him/her react more kindly to others. It is after all possible that the lady standing in front of the drink dispersing talking on the phone gave that away.  

I also am very fond of this method because I often target civil servants -- firemen/women, police women/men  etc.  I learned once that they are not allowed to take those from people, it could be seen as a bribe-- therefore if I am unknown to them there is no way they can get in trouble for accepting a free lunch/coffee on me!

I really love to see people get an unexpected joy so I was thinking, what can I do?  How can I encourage others?  So I devised a new plan.  As a Stampin' Up! demonstrator I have all these great stamps with beautiful sayings and images that can really make people happy.  I have decided to create what I am calling "tip cards"  What I do, is I make these cards up they are about 4 1/2 x 2 1/4 for fast food, bank teller, postal official etc and they just are a note thanking them (in handwriting)  for the great job they are doing.  I then make a few larger ones for sit down restaurants that I put my card in when I am paying the tab etc.  NOW this in no way replaces the monetary tip, but it is just a way to leave a little nice around.

If you would like to learn more about how I make these or Stampin' Up! products I used let me know, or visit my website www.mpt.stampinup.net   ALSO.. keep checking back, I will have videos up for you soon.  My ATV guy begins work after the launch date of the new catalog! June 2

Thank you all and be blessed!

Here are a few samples
 (OH happy day by Sandra Goforth www.sgoforth.stampinup,net)

Erika!  

Now Go MakePrettyThings! 

  

Making Pretty

Making Pretty Things makes me happy.  In previous post, I have shared about that icky feeling I get when I don't create.  I am discovering there are times when my "mojo" seems to have run away from home -- you know that feeling right?-- Well I think I have stumbled upon what makes some people that are creative just seem to always have awesome ideas and they make such pretty things.

 It is simple really... they make stuff.  See creativity can not be used up it can only be fed.  If one is always creating, they are exercising that part of their mind.  Ideas begin to take root and flourish with much more ease. That constant use of your creative ability will only give it strength.

I made a commitment to myself a few weeks ago that I would attempt to make something pretty every day.  Even if it was just a doodle, it would be a conscience effort to use the creative side of me. For me, making things can range from my paper crafting to word smithing.  I am finding that my ideas for things to make is strengthening.  I encourage you to try making something (like I said even if it is a doodle on scratch paper) to feed your creativity and see if it helps you feel stronger.

I believe we are all creative.  Each person.  I believe it may not be the same kind of creativity, such as I can do a lot with paper and glue, but my husband is the most creative man I know when it comes to problem solving. (I mean that in a he really rocks at it way).

Since making my declaration of Making Pretty Things *daily*  I have not once fought the mojo monster in fact, my sketch book is getting a work out!  Here are a few MPT I have created *mostly paper art because I am trying to grow that area of my ability.

This is something I was trying, building a foundation then adding the card images and sentiment. These two cards began as one tall card with the Kind Koala stamp but it was just too much white space so I cut it and another full card escaped. 

Playing with the chalkboard trend.  I really liked the simple look.  It is hard to see but I used a little white chalk on the back of the Happy Birthday piece to give it a more "chalkboard" appearance. 

One night I was in the mood to color, so I stamped a bunch of images from the "For the Birds" set Stampin'Up.  then created four cute little mini cards.  These cards can be used on gift bags or given as a lunch box note or just a card to a friend/loved one to say... HEY I was thinking about you! 

The Yay! Yay! Yay! you brighten my day is from the Sale-a-Bration set You Brighten my Day.  I liked that the pennants are not attached, it give a whimsy feel to the card.  

Went to the convention (CKC-PHX) and found this cute little stamp set. and well it was all about the coloring!  I love that card making is not complicated.  A nicely colored image on a good solid color scheme and you have a completed work of art that can brighten someone day! 

I really hope you come back often.  I hope to have videos soon of some techniques to help you Make Pretty Things.
I would appreciate if you what you see on my blog that you will share with others.  Thanks for making my day better by being a friend/follower here.  I do value your comments and ideas, please share with me!

Go make something pretty
Blessings
e