Monday, December 31, 2012

Nature's Pace Thank-you cards


    • Natures' Pace with Papillon Potpourri Butterflies Thank-You card
    • Holiday mini catalog ordering ends Jan 3.  Don't miss the Valentine set
    • Clearance Rack Blitz:  More Items added to the Clearance Rack

Here's a thank-you card I made to express appreciation for the thoughtfulness received from so many this season.  I love that we have so many fun and different tools to create with.  I really like how this turned out.

 




Recipe
Stamps: Nature's Pace (W-122660, C-122662), Papillon Potpourri (123757, C-123759) and Musical Notes wheel (120327); Sentiment:  Sweet Essentials (W-126455, C 126457)
Paper:   Very Vanilla, Early Espresso
InksCrumb Cake, Soft Suede, Early Espresso
Accessories:  Pearl Basic Jewels, Framed Tulips Textured Impressions Embossing Folder, Apothecary Accents Framelits, Big Shot Die Cutting Machine and Cutting Pads, Elegant Butterfly Punch (127526), 5/8" Crochet Trim - Victoria (118481)


To place an order:  Visit my Stampin' Up! Store

Stampin' Up! Holiday mini catalog ordering Ends January 3.


Only a couple more days to order any items you want from the Holiday mini catalog.  The mini catalog expires on January 3.  One stamp set you'll want to take a close look at to buy now, before it's gone, is the Affection Collection Clear Mount Stamp Set (127949).  This is a great vintage style, romantic set perfect for Valentine's Day cards or to use on a wedding-themed card or tags.  This set coordinates with the Modern label and Small Heart Punches.


Affection Collection Clear-Mount Stamp Set - 127949

More items added to the Clearance Rack



With pockets and purses emptied out from Holiday shopping, here's an opportunity to save a little and get a lot.  In addition to adding retired Stamps sets to the Clearance rack for the first time ever, the items below were just added to the Clearance Rack.  Check it out today.

Here are the 15 products just added to the Clearance Rack Blitz! Visit today for best selection.




Quantities available while they last. Click here to visit the to the Clearance Rack.  Even if you've recently visited, you'll want to check for any of your favorites; now available at a discount.  Several of my favorites are already sold out.  Hurry for best selection.



·       Neutrals Flower Brads
·       Regales Flower Brads
·       Subtles Flower Brads
·       Pretty in Pink 5/8 Satin Ribbon
·       Bashful Blue 5/8 Satin Ribbon
·       Chantilly ½” Crochet Trim
·       Artichoke 3/8” Denim Jean Ribbon
·       2010-2012 In Color Stampin’ Write Markers
·       2011-2013 In Color 12- X 12_ Textured Cardstock
·       Timeless Portrait Designer Series Paper
·       Beau Chateau Designer series Paper
·       Well Worn Designer Series Paper
·       Beau Chateau Side Notes
·       Sweetest Stem Embosslits Die
·       Flower Burst Embosslit Dies

Quantities available while they last. Click here to visit the to the Clearance Rack.  Even if you've recently visited, you'll want to check for any of your favorites; now available at a discount.  Several of my favorites are already sold out.  Hurry for best selection.


Enjoy!

Donna Ross
Stampin' Up! Independent Demonstrator
Private Classes for 1 or a small group of friends:  http://cardmaking.meetup.com/71/



Tuesday, December 25, 2012

Best Christmas Present ever - Merry Christmas 2012

  •  Best Christmas Present . . . ever
  •  Christmas Lodge Christmas Card
  •  Fa-la-la-la-la, la-la-la-la

Here's a quick card template from My Digital Studio design software that I reworked a bit to accommodate a photo of our 11-year old Sheltie, Rascal.  We're so fortunate to have him with us.  A couple weeks ago we weren't sure if he would make it home for Christmas.





Rascal just stopped eating one Monday morning shortly after Thanksgiving.  We were able to get a little bit of food in him each day, but by Friday I was really alarmed and took him to the vet on Saturday.  The vet told us it was probably a bad tooth and sent him home with some pain meds until we could get him back to the vet for teeth cleaning a week later.

On Sunday, Rascal started throwing up and still wouldn't eat.  Monday we took Rascal back to the vet and found that his blood work showed very high liver chemistry numbers.  We went for an ultrasound at an animal hospital the following morning.  The new vet told us they would like to do exploratory surgery because the abdominal ultrasound revealed a distension of the gall bladder and a mottled liver.  I learned more about the importance of a dogs liver and gall bladder over the next few days than I ever thought possible.  However, I was really concerned what major surgery and a long recovery period would do to an older dog with hip problems.

We opted not to do the surgery, which would have required a 10-day stay in the animal hospital and the results wouldn't be back for 3-4 weeks.  Instead we decided to try a variety of heavy drugs because they couldn't pinpoint if this was a bacteria, fungal, gall stone blockage or what. 

We're happy to say that after a couple of days he started eating again--a little bit more each day--and two weeks after we started the drugs he's more active, alert and his eating is back to normal.  His liver chemistries are improving, with bilirubin now normal.  He will remain on Clavamox, Baytril, Ursodiol, Denamarin for whatever is causing his liver and gall bladder problems, Cerenia (for nausea, if needed) and Tramadol for his hip pain for another couple of weeks to be sure we got it all.

The return to health of our beloved companion is the best Christmas present ever! 

Here's what I used on Rascal's scrapbook page.
  My Digital Studio recipe:
Stamps
    Designer Kits/More Merry Messages/More Merry Messages - merry christmas, Stamp Color:  SUMMER STARFRUIT    

    Designer Kits/More Merry Messages/More Merry Messages - do not open, Color:  I color matched a piece of fur in his coat.
Background Color: CHERRY COBBLER
Punches
    1.25 Square Punch, Fill Color: CHERRY COBBLER     1.25 Square Punch, Fill Color:  I color matched a piece of fur in his coat.

My Digital Studio Design Software:  30-day free trial available.  (Try it today with your Christmas photos!)


 Last Christmas Card of the season


Here's my last Christmas Card of the season.  Now I can start playing with all of the new pre-order products from the Spring Catalog merchandise!  As much as I love to play with new stamps and merchandise, I love making Chrtmas cards and gift wrapping the most.  I wish we could use all of the sparkel, big fluffy bows, and festive papers all year round...love, love, love it and hate to put away the Christmas fun at the end of every year.




I love the Christmas Lodge stamp set.  This is the second Christmas in a row that I've used it on my main Christmas Card...even though I have every new Christmas stamp from this year's catalog...this one is my all-time favorite.  Also, check out the Cherry Cobbler Dazzling Details (125585).  You're going to want a bottle of this for your Valentine cards.

This card uses: 

Stamps:  Christmas Lodge (123769), More Merry Messages (inside verse, which I forgot to photograph - 126402)
Inks:  Soft Suede
Papers:  Soft Suede, Cherry cobbler, Very Vanilla, Champaign Glimmer Paper
Accessories:  Cherry Cobbler Dazzling Details, Labels Collection Framelit (125598), Big Shot & Cutting pads


 Here's wishing you a Very Merry Christmas, with a final word (Christmas song) from Rascal...

Fa-la-la-la-la, la-la-la-la



Sing it out, Rascal ... and to all a good night!

Enjoy!
Donna Ross
Stampin' Up! Independent Demonstrator




Sunday, November 18, 2012

Stampin' Up! Holidy Blitz and Online Extravaganza with up to 50% off



  • 10-day Online Extravaganza promotion starts Monday, Nov 19 -- Sneak Peek
  • A MDS Snow Flake Christmas Card & Gift pillow pack
  • Join Stampin' Up! between now and Dec 16 for $99 + Free Ink Pads worth $49.95






  • The Online Extravaganza promotion is our biggest online sale of the year! We want to make it easier for you to shop for Stampin' Up! products when lots of people are doing their holiday shopping, but not necessarily holding Stampin' Up! parties. So during these 10 days only, you  can get incredible discounts--up to 50 percent-on some of your favorite products!

    In addition, there will be three products 20 percent off for 24-hours only on both the first and last days of Online Extravaganza--our very own doorbusters!


    Monday, November 19, midnight - 11:50 PM (MT)

    PageItemDescriptionRetail24-Hr Sale
    181125586Simply Scored Diagonal Plate$11.95$9.56
    186113439Big Shot Die Cutting Machine$99.95$79.96
    186113474Big Shot Doctor's Bag$69.95$53.56



    Wednesday, November 28, midnight - 11:50 PM (MT)
    PageItemDescriptionRetail24-Hr Sale
    7118941Clear Block Bundle$66.95$53.56
    7120279Clear Block Storage Caddy$16.95$13.56
    Tab175109127Stack & Store Caddy$34.95$27.96
    You can visit my Online Store to see all discounted products when the promotion goes live or download this pdf and plan your purchases now

    One of the best values in my opinion is that My Digital Studio 2+, which is normally $79.95, will be available for a short time  for $39.98!!  And if you already have My Digital Studio; the upgrade to MDS 2 download is only $9.98 (regularly $19.95).  Download the full .pdf list and check out all the savings.

     



    The Fine Print



    Discounts range between 20 and 50 percent--awesome!
    Discounted products are available on all order types (customer, demonstrator, workshop, and online).
    There's no minimum purchase required to participate in this promotion. Sale on!
    For product bundles, you need to use the bundle item numbers provided. If you use individual item numbers, you won't get the discount--bummer.
    You can buy additional products from any of our current catalogs on the same order.


    Here a cute Snow Flake Christmas card using My Digital Studio



    I expanded a My Digital Studio background I recently made using multiple snow flakes for a Christmas pillow gift box and made a matching Christmas Card.




    Stamps, Desginer Kits, & Colors
    Bright Hopes\Bright Hopes - snowflake, Color = CRUMB CAKE
    Calendar Basics Kit\Calendar Kit - snowflake, Color = CRUMB CAKE
    Holiday Blitz\Holiday Blitz - snowflake, Color = CRUMB CAKE
    Jolly Bingo Bits\Jolly Bingo Bits - snowflake, Color = CRUMB CAKE, BASIC BLACK
    Snowflake Soiree\Snowflake Soiree - snowflake 3, Color = CRUMB CAKE
    Designer Kits\Candlelight Christmas\Candlelight Christmas - dotted line, Color = Taken with Team (retired)
    Base Card:  Crumb Cake
    Accessories:  5/8" Whisper White Organza Ribbon
    
    Here's a look at what the MDS Snow Flake card and pillow gift card look like together.  Cute, cute, cute!  And the good news is that My Digital Studio is one of the items on sale during the Extravaganza.




    Join Stampin' Up! between now and Dec 16 for $99 plus get Free Ink Pads worth $49.95








    It’s an ink-redible time to join -- or rejoin-- the Stampin’ Up! family!   And if you choose to join or re-join as a hobby demonstrator rather than making Stampin' Up! a business, I'll buy your business supply pack (catalogs, order forms, etc) from you for $25.  Bottom line:  That means your $99 starter kit will end up costing you only $75 and you'll still receive the FREE collection of Stampin' Pads worth $49.95.   Click here to get the details.  Then let's talk, and I'll help your through the on-line sign up process.

    For just $99, you get
    • Your choice of up to $125 worth of any current Stampin' Up! products! 
    • You can include My Studio Software as an item for your Starter Kit.  Or select traditional card making and scrapbooking supplies from the current catalogs
    • A business supply pack valued at $65!
    • Free shipping
    • 20% or more off future purchases
    That's a total value of $190!

    Plus, from November 1 through December 16, you’ll get a FREE collection of Classic Stampin’ Pads®—a $49.95 value—when you become a demonstrator. Start 2013 with a new hobby or a new business -- your choice!  Contact me today and let me tell you how to make 2013 your most fun year yet!


    Enjoy!

    Donna Ross
    Stampin' Up! Independent Demonstrator







      



    Sunday, November 04, 2012

    Free digital downloads and 50% off digital kits ends Nov 5



    • FREE digital downloads ends Monday
    • 50% off ALL digital kits ends Monday
    • Join Stampin' Up! between now and Dec 16 for $99 + Free Ink Pads worth $49.95

    • New Trimmer now available -- see video demo


    I shopped for Christmas Ornaments and candles and started working on digital Christmas projects this week-end...I'm finding it a little hard to believe we just finished Halloween and it is almost Thanksgiving!  I spent the rest of the week-end playing with My Digital Studio Downloads.   Here's one of the digtal projects I created a couple of weeks ago for a class.




     



    One way I plan to save time and enjoy the holidays more is with My Digital Studio designs.  I'll use this background design for many different projects. 

    This design were based on an idea I saw and didn't think to capture where I was on the web when I saw these striking color combinations.  The great thing about designing in My digital Studio is that once I've created the basic background design, I can use it on all kinds of die cuts, tags and cards.  I'll be able to make matching card fronts, gift packages like this pillow box, matchbox candy holders, or anything else I want to create from this design. 

    I started by doing a search in My Digital Studio for all the snowflake I had purchased as downloads.  I selected several snowflakes from different kits, sized them, positioned them, and then colored them using either Crumb Cake or Basic Black.  I admit to a little trial and error.  I printed this on regular computer paper and laid a Sizzix pillow box template over the design to position elements where I wanted them to end up on the finished die cut.  I added the dotted line from the Candlelight Chritmas digital kit and position the text around the dotted line. 

    Here are the My Digital Studio Products used in the little Pillow Box above:

    Stamps, Desginer Kits, & Colors
    Bright Hopes\Bright Hopes - snowflake, Color = CRUMB CAKE
    Calendar Basics Kit\Calendar Kit - snowflake, Color = CRUMB CAKE
    Holiday Blitz\Holiday Blitz - snowflake, Color = CRUMB CAKE
    Jolly Bingo Bits\Jolly Bingo Bits - snowflake, Color = CRUMB CAKE, BASIC BLACK
    Snowflake Soiree\Snowflake Soiree - snowflake 3, Color = CRUMB CAKE
    Designer Kits\Candlelight Christmas\Candlelight Christmas - dotted line, Color = Taken with Team (retired)


    Don't forget the FREE downloads and 50% off all Digital scrapbooking kit that ends Mon, Nov 5. 


    If we get 18,000 downloads of FREE items Stampin' Up! will give us a fourth FREE download. Email your friends; your sister, your mother...and on my blog, scroll down the left hand side of the page to like this on facebook. Place an order for your free digital items today.  Use the item numbers from the kits below.  Crate project using your free downloads with My Digital Studio software or your favorite design software.







    I'm betting you've been thinking about trying digital designing software, as your stamp room has grown more cluttered with barely an empty space to work in.  It is great to have all of the traditional scrapbooking products, but some days you just wish for a clean working space to begin your creative process. 

    That's one of the beauties of My Digital Studio.  You can start with a blank page.  Or you can begin with one of the many designer templates or photo templates available.  It is a fast way to try different color combinations and stamps to create your designs before you pull out all your papers and stamps.  Even if you are casing an idea you saw elsewhere, you might want to try different color combinations, designer papers or different stamps.  My Digital Studio design software helps you personalize an idea quickly, and economically.

    With so many ladies becoming highly skilled in using digital design software MyDigitaStudio.com site is filled with handy videos to get you started and keep you going.  The forums are friendly and useful for beginners or experienced users. 

    So what do the free downloads look like? And what do they include?










    The talented artists at Stampin' Up! shared this idea for using the kit on the MyDigitalStudio.com site.   This kit makes easy-to-do tags for your packages, advent calendars, Holiday cards and scrapbook pages 

    See more projects using these free downloads by searching the MyDigitalStudio.com site with the code:  DSD2012.







    Also through Monday, Nov 5, save 50% on over 50 Digital Designer Kits.  Look through all these great kits here!  Help keep your Holiday budget in line by making personalized gifts, decorations, and projects using these money-saving digital kits, with ideas and help from the MyDigitalStudio.com site. 



    Join Stampin' Up! as a demonstrator for $99, get a set of Free Ink Pads worth $49.95, and Order My Digital Studio 2+ as part of your customized starter kit!


     


    If your wish list totals more than $99, a great way to get more value for your dollars spent is to sign up as a demonstrator.   Sign up can be completed on line.

    When you sign up as a demonstrator, you  select $125 worth of Stampin' Up! Products for $99, which you were going to spend anyway.  And you will save 20% or more on your future purchases. Stampin' Up!'s New Demonstrator Starter Kit is completely customizable with the products you want and need! Build your Starter Kit your way!

    For just $99, you get

    • Your choice of up to $125 worth of any current Stampin' Up! products! 
    • You can include My Studio Software as an item for your Starter Kit.  Or select traditional card making and scrapbooking supplies from the current catalogs
    • A business supply pack valued at $65!
    • Free shipping
    That's a total value of $190!

    Plus, from November 1 through December 16, you’ll get a FREE collection of Classic Stampin’ Pads®—a $49.95 value—when you become a demonstrator.

    It’s an ink-redible time to join -- or rejoin-- the Stampin’ Up! family!   And if you choose to join or re-join as a hobby demonstrator rather than making Stamin' Up! a business, I'll buy your business supply pack (catalogs, order forms, etc) from you for $25.  Bottom line:  That means your $99 starter kit will end up costing you only $75 and you'll still receive the FREE collection of Stampin' Pads worth $49.95.   Click here to get the details.  Then let's talk, and I'll help your through the on-line sign up process.
     

    New Trimmer now available from Stampin' Up!


    Check out the new trimmer from Stampin' Up!!  We saw previews of this new trimmer during Convention 2012 in July.  What a fabulous tool!  Everything about it is well-thought out. 









    If a new trimmer is part of your upcoming purchases, this is the one to get!  Why not ask Santa to order this for you to open Christmas morning. Or add this item to your Stampin' Up! starter kit. 

    Clearance Rack items just added


    Check out the news items just added to the Clearance Rack.  Amazing prices, while quantities last.
     

    Enjoy!

    Donna Ross
    Stampin' Up! Independent Demonstrator







      



    Monday, October 29, 2012

    Free Downloads for a week AND for 24 hours only, 15% off almost every Stampin' Up! stamp

    ·        50% off digital download kits for a week
    ·        Free Digital downloads
    ·        15% off almost every stamp for 24 hours

    Spooktacular Specials. Some Monday only, others all week long!



    For the first time ever,  starting at 12:00 AM (MT) and ending at 11:50 PM (MT), almost every stamp Stampin’ Up! sells will be 15 percent off. Monday only!  Don’t miss this one!!
    This promotion includes all stamps in the current catalogs
      • Background stamps
      • Personalized name stamps
      • Incentive stamp sets from the supply list
      • Cookie press stamps
      • Single-image stamps
    This DOES NOT include
      • Hostess sets
      • Bundled stamp sets
      • Digital stamp brush sets
    There is no minimum purchase, and no limit to the number of stamps you can order.

    Combine your stamp and digital download order for Stampin’ Rewards.
    If your order totals $150 or more (before tax & shipping), you will receive Stampin' Rewards.  

    Grab the phone and place your order.

    We're having a demonstrator contest, and there are wonderful new accessories and stamps I can earn for free from the 2013 Spring Catalog if you place your order through my web site. That means I’ll have the latest and greatest stamps and products to show you.
    So Demonstrators have the contest, but YOU get the deals!! AND the best of both worlds, because I'll be showing you and your friends all the newest products and super cute new projects you’ll be able to makes using these new products.

    My goal is to sell 30 individual stamps, backgrounds, cookie stamps or stamp sets between 1 a.m. CST Monday morning and 12:59 a.m. CST Tuesday morning (SU is on Mountain Time.) I need YOUR HELP to meet this goal! So prepare yourself to take advantage of these great deals (I'm staying up 'til midnight to make sure you get all this information as soon as it is posted on the Stampin’ Up! site.)

    Single Stamps included in 15 percent off sale


    Included in this sale are the exciting new single piece stamps.  These are single stamps from popular stamp sets. Stampin' Up is trying out something new! Now you can choose just the sayings you want from select stamp sets, without having to buy the entire set!




    • These stamps are available on any order type, whether it is online, emailed in, or at a workshop. 
    • You can find the stamp item numbers on the website under single stamps:
    • These won't be sent to you in our typical cases or packaging; they'll be packaged in cello bags. If you'd like a case for your stamp, you can buy our Clear-Mount Stamp Cases that come in packs of four (item 119105).
    • This offer is available for clear-mount stamps only and runs through January 2nd, 2013.
    • The stamps won't come with a Clear-Mount Block, so you'll need to buy a block separately if you don't already have one. . 
    • There's no limit on how many pieces you can buy! These make great, easy to mail gifts, too!
    Enjoy this fun, limited-time offer from Stampin' Up! Like the flexibility of purchasing single stamps  Be sure to put your money where your mouth is, and maybe Stampin' Up will keep this on after the trial period is over! I love that our stamps come in professionally designed, coordinated sets--but it is kind of nice to be able to pick and choose, too! So take advantage of full stamp sets and single stamps at 15% savings for one day only! Order now!  


    Also, beginning Monday, week of FREE downloads and 50 percent off ALL digital kits!


    What do you get when you combine Digital Scrapbooking Day and My Digital Studio?

    Beginning October 29 to November 5 --our weeklong Digital Scrapbooking Day celebration where you'll get:
    • FREE digital downloads
    • 50% off ALL digital kits
    • Creative project ideas
    • Digital project challenges



    And one more offer you’ll want to check out are the Content Discs for My Digital Studio recently added to the Clearance Rack.  This is a great way to build up the content in your Digital Design software.  It works with My Digital Studio or other digital design software

    This is one of the most spectacular offer weeks I’ve seen from Stampin’ Up!  It is a great time to pick up the stamps and digital content you’ve been wanting.

    Enjoy

    Donna Ross
    Stampin' Up! Independent Demonstrator




      




    Wednesday, August 15, 2012


    Dahlias Forever

    Today's card again uses the new In Color Dahlias.  These resin flowers are wonderfully detailed and add so much to a simple card! 
    The Forever with You stamp set includes the sentiment as well as the flowers.  The flowers work with the Oval Accent Bigz Clear Die, which I didn't use with this card, but I wanted to point out how versatile and how many ways this set could be used.  I used the Window Frame Collection Framelit Die from the Holiday mini catalog to punch out the sentiment. 
    This card uses:
    Stamps:  Forever with You (w-126725, c-126727)
    Inks:  Pretty in Pink, Raspberry Ripple,
    Papers:  Pretty in Pink, Raspberry Ripple Whisper White
    Extras:  In Color DAHLIAS (127556); 5/8" Whisper White Organza Ribbon (114319); Pearl Basic Jewels (119247); Window Frame Collection Framelit Die (129021), Standard Cutting Pad, Big Shot Die Cutting Machine.

    Want a 20 percent discount on all My Digital Studio products all the time?  Or want to earn extra money or even start a full-time business? You can have all that and more by becoming a Stampin’ Up! demonstrator.   If you have over $99 in wish list items, signing up as a demonstrator will give you $125 worth of Stampin' Up! products, plus a bonus Halloween kit if you sign up this month.
    Enjoy!
    Donna Ross
    Stampin' Up! Independent Demonstrator

      

    Tuesday, August 14, 2012


    Butterfly and Floral District Birthday



    It was my mom's 90th birthday this week end.  This is the card I made her.  I had so much fun!  I asked all my friends at work and personal friends to send her cards ...and they did!  Mom called tonight and read me the messages from the stack of cards she received.  I was surprised and pleased that most of our friends added personal notes about how they knew me or personal notes about themselves.  She was so tickled to get to know my co-workers and friends a little better since we live many states apart and she has never met my co-workers or friends.  She said she now has a reason to live to 100..just so I'll do it again!


    I hand cut the mat around the sentiment as well as the sentiment stamped in Lucky Limeade on Whisper White.  Love the cute Dahlias...perfectly sized for so many projects.   The paper from the Floral District Designer Series pack is the front and back of one of the sheets.
    This card uses:
    Stamps:  Perfectly Penned 122892 -Clear
    Inks:  Lucky Limeade
    Papers:  Floral District (126919) Lucky Limeade, Whisper White
    Extras:  In Color DAHLIAS (127556); 3/8" Lucky Limeade Ruffled Ribbon, 1/8" Taffeta Ribbon; Naturals Designer Buttons (127554); Linen Threat (104199) Beautiful Butterflies Bigz Die (114507), Standard Cutting Pad, Big Shot Die Cutting Machine.
    Here's a second version of the card with a different sentiment.  I like how both turned out!

    Fabric for 99 cents...while they last

    Check out the new items added to the Clearance Racks.  Fabric for $.99 -- while they last.  We've received so many wonderful gifts at Convention, Regionals and Leadership made from these fabrics.  You'll want to grab them while you're thinking about the great gifts you want to make before the Holidays are here.  Order now for best selection.
    Clearance Rack

    MDS 2 Videos

    With the introduction of My Digital Studio 2 software for digital scrapbooking and card making, Stampin' up has provided a number of new videos showing how easy it is to get started with Digital scrapbooking, card making and printed projects. 
    View the library of videos showing many of the new features in My Digital Studio (MDS) 2 software, and take advantage of the FREE 30-day trial of the basic software.  Plus, during August, enjoy 31% off select digital content and print products.  Perfect for starting your Holiday cards and printing them at a discount
    My Digital Studio software training

    
    MyDigitalStudio software videos
    Samples of just a few of the videos.  Visit the MyDigitalStudio.net site for more!
     Want a 20 percent discount on all My Digital Studio products all the time?  Or want to earn extra money or even start a full-time business? You can have all that and more by becoming a Stampin’ Up! demonstrator.  
    Enjoy!
    Donna Ross
    Stampin' Up! Independent Demonstrator





      

    Monday, August 06, 2012


    Stampin' Up! Product Suite Display Boards - 2012



    One of the best parts of Convention is seeing all of the sample display boards -- especially the product suites.  These boards show off many of the product suites from the current catalog along with ideas for using matching items.


    See more samples for International Bazaar Suite in the catalog pp 96-98.

    Stampin' Up! showed us such a wide array of styles.  I love how Stampin' Up! has taken the guess work out of matching what goes with what. 

    See Floral District samples in the catalog pp70-72

    Just like the catalog, the displays at Convention showed groupings of products that coordinate together into suites and make it easier to make coordinated projects. 


    The Summer Smooches Suite is on pp 80-82 of the catalog

    You'll spend more time making your projects and less time trying to find products that work together.  

    
    More Birds of a Feather products begin on pp 88-90 of the catalog.
    
    Although we saw the Designer Series papers up close during Convention, I love that the catalog this year shows larger images of the Designer Series papers making it easier to see the coordinated designs in each package. 


    The Natural Composition Specialty paper (right side of photo) is especially nice to work with with its glossy, raised patterns printed on heavy-weight Natural paper.  (Item #126917)

    Love the continuation of the suites grouping coordinating products together in the Holiday section of the catalog.


    Be of Good Cheer suite is on pp 8-10 of the catalog

    If you've looked through your copy of the new Holiday catalog, you'll see that you can save money by purchasing your matching products in bundles. Before placing your order for these fresh, trendy items, check out the savings you'll enjoy by purchasing your items in bundles that save your $$s!  Purchase everything under one product code and save. Place an on-line order through my Stampin' Up! store  and enjoy a stress-free Holiday season by starting your project early.

    Enjoy more savings with these offers.

    MDS2 is here!  Video on many topics, as close as your computer key board.  http://mydigitalstudio.net/video.  30-day Free trial --details here!  Check out my previous post for full details on chosing the best software option and types of content availalbe.
    Download a free copy of the Holiday Catalog today.  Stampin' Up! released the catalog a month eaerlier than usual -- to give us (me) extra time to finish my Fall and Holiday projects. 
    If your wish list totals more than $99, a great way to get more value for your dollars is to sign up as a demonstrator.  You'll select $125 worth of products for only $99 in your customizable Starter Kit; and receive free shipping.  This month you'll also receive a FREE Howl-o-ween Painters Tray project kit that includes all the bits and piecers to create a super spooky Halloween decoration.    As a Stampin' Up! demonstrator, you'll love receiving discounts on Stampin' Up! products.  You earn greater discounts by combining sales items, like the My Digital Studio Products on Sale this month as well as other specials.    Find out more here.
    Enjoy!
    Donna Ross
    Stampin' Up! Independent Demonstrator

      

    Wednesday, August 01, 2012


    2012 Stampin' Up! Holiday Catalog is live


    The Holiday Catalog is now live! 


    Place your orders on-line, any time!

    Download a pdf version of the 2012 Holiday Catalog online.  This allows you to zoom up to see large size versions of the samples and products.  It is a large file, so give it a little time time to download completely.





    New My Digital Studio (MDS2) is Here!



    Video on many topics, as close as your computer key board.  http://mydigitalstudio.net/video

    View topics such as: 
    • Creating buttons for your blog using MDS,
    • Recoloring Design Series Paper in MDS2,
    • Recoloring  stamped images in MDS2.

    MDS2 includes 75 new features so you'll be able to:
    • Design in Spreads
    • Create with custom canvas sizes
    • Add more than one color to a single stamp image
    • Change the color of designer papers or embellishments
    • Resize vector stamp images while keeping them crisp
    • See color combination suggestions
    • And much more...75 new features making designing easier!

    My Digital Studio products


  • Software: MDS 2 and MDS 2+ are both available on a disc, so you can add them to any order. MDS 2+ is a fantastic value--not only do you get a digital designing program, but you also get over $500US/$650 CAN worth of digital content! The software is easy enough for the beginning designer, but robust enough for experienced digital designer, as well. Purchasing MDS 2 allows you to use Stampin' Up!'s professional print services--and a guaranteed color match with Stampin' Up!'s exclusive colors!
  • Collection Discs: You can purchase My Digital Studio collection discs. We have bundled digital versions of our most popular suites on a DVD--better yet, they're discounted at least 10 percent. These collection DVDs are compatible with any digital program, so digitally-minded users can have Stampin' Up! artwork no matter what design program they choose to use.
  • Hostess CDs: We have exclusive digital Hostess items in all our Stampin' Up! catalogs. These CDs contain exclusive artwork you can only get by hosting a party or placing an order for more than $150. You can can also use your Hostess Dollars to purchase the disc version of MDS 2 or MDS 2+.
  • MyDigitalStudio.net. You can access MyDigitalStudio.net, a site dedicated to all things My Digital Studio, including training with tons of instructional videos, a forum to ask questions of other My Digital Studio users, a gallery with samples, and much more! You will be able to find all the help they need on MyDigitalStudio.net.
    Choosing the best software option

    • MDS 2:  When you purchase MDS 2, you receive our full digital design software with a some functional content. You can view a complete list of MDS 2 content here. Customers who want to pick and choose their own digital content instead of a pre-selected package will enjoy this option.
    • MDS 2+: MDS 2+ is our MDS 2 software plus over $500 US/$650 CAN of digital content. You can view a complete list of the MDS 2+ content here. This is the most cost efficient option if you are new to digital designing. MDS 2+ is the best way to build up a digital content library for a very low price. This is an also an excellent option if you already own My Digital Studio, but want to build your download library.
    • MDS 2 Upgrade: (Download only) The MDS 2 Upgrade is for users who have already purchased My Digital Studio. They can upgrade to MDS 2 for the discounted price of $19.95 US/ $24.95 CA. The MDS 2 Upgrade does not include any digital content. This option is perfect for you if you already have My Digital Studio, and just want to access the 75 new design tools.
    • MDS 2 Trial:  (Download only) The MDS 2 Trial allows you to try MDS 2 free for 30 days. It includes $200 US/$250 CAN of digital content (including designer templates!) so they will be able to design projects for many different occasions during their trial period. Click here to see a list of digital downloads included in the trial. This is a great option for customers who are curious about digital, but aren't quite ready to buy the software yet.

      • System Requirements
        Prior to installing My Digital Studio, ensure that your computer meets the following technical specifications:


        Computers running Microsoft Windows:
        • Windows 7, Vista or XP
        • Pentium 4, 1 GHz or better (1.6 GHz recommended) or comparable AMD processor
        • 1 GB RAM available (2 GB or more recommended), 2 GB required for Windows Vista users and Windows 7 users (1.5 GB or more recommended)
        • 16 MB video RAM (64 MB recommended)
        • Available hard disk space: 6GB minimum
        • DVD-ROM drive Computers running (Only required for My Digital Studio DVDs)
        Macintosh:
        • OS X 10.4.x or greater (with the latest Java update) Highly recommend 10.6.x or greater
        • G4 500 MHz or faster (G5 1 GHz or better recommended, PowerPC or Intel Mac)
        • 1 GB RAM (2 GB or more recommended)
        • 16 MB video RAM (64 MB recommended)
        • Available hard disk space: 6 GB minimum
        • DVD-ROM drive (Only required for My Digital Studio DVDs)
        • My Digital Studio does not run on IPads
        Other Requirements
        • QuickTime Player version 7.5 or higher (available at http://www.quicktime.com/)
        • Monitor resolution: 1024 x 768 or higher (1152 x 864 or higher recommended)
        • Internet connection: broadband connection with 512kbps download and 128kbps upload (1.5Mbps download and 768kbps upload or faster recommended)

        Recommended additional equipment
        • Printer
        • Digital camera


        If your wish list totals more than $99, sign up as a demonstrator to receive 20% discount on your future orders, and order $125 worth of products in your starter kit for only $99

        Order My Digital Studio 2+ as part of your customized starter kit!


        One of my favorite things about being a Stampin' Up! demonstrator is the great discount I get on all my products. I especially love receiving the discount on the My Digital Studio Print Products and downloads. I would love to tell you more about how you can receive this same discount.  During August, many print products and digital downloads are on sale.  Add these to your order for My Digital Studio!  See my previous blog post for details.

        Stampin' Up! makes it so easy to start your own home-based business. Every Starter Kit comes with a set of business supplies. Then, you get to choose up to $125 worth of either traditional or digital supplies to create your own customized kit valued at over $190.  Your cost is only $99.   Find out more here.



        Donna Ross
        Stampin' Up! Independent Demonstrator




          



        Monday, July 30, 2012


        Convention Swap samples & Spooktacular offer in August.

        One of the best organized swaps I participated in was the Lyssa's Convention #12 - "Now THIS is Convention Quality"  It is so well-organized.  It was 5 groups of 20 swappers. 

        
        We used the tables at the front of the Gathering Place
        
        
        This is Lyssa.  This is the 12th Convention Swap that she's organized.  She knows what she's doing! 
        
        Once all 20 cards were laid out, each group took a turn picking up one of the 20 swaps in their group.

        The quality was amazing!  See a few of the swaps below

        
        Even more amazing, everyone who signed up for the swap kept their commitment and all cards were available at the scheduled time.  It only took 30 minutes for over 120 cards to be swapped.
        
        Thanks, Lyssa!  Your new title:  I am an incredible swap organizer!
        Here are some of the wonderful cards I received.  I'll share more in coming days. 


        Thsi card was created by Anne Venci and uses the Nature's Pace stamp.

        Emillie Chisholm created this beautiful card using Blooming with Kindness

        The creator of this card is Lyn Schumacher and she used Field Flowers


        Swaps are one my favorite reasons for attending Convention.  It is a great way to gather ideas for classes for the next several months.

        Join as a demonstrator for $99, pick your own Starter Kit Products and get this Spooktacular offer during August

        If you have a long "Wish List" ready to place on August 1, we have a spooktacular offer for you! If you plan to order over $99 from the new Holiday mini catalog, your better choice is to sign up as a demonstrator.  For $99, you can choose $125.00 worth of any traditional or digital supplies with free shipping...just for signing up as a Stampin' Up! demonstrator.  And you will receve a FREE Howl-o-ween Printer's Tray project kit.  This boo-tiful kit contains all the bits and pieces to create a super spooky Halloween decoration.


        In addition, Stampin' Up! has made the new standard Starter Kit completely customizable!  This is a great way to update your supplies with the new In Colors, new stamp pads, new dies, new digital downloads, new ribbons and new stamps from either the big catalog or from the Holiday mini.  And after purchasing your Starter Kit order, you'll receive 20% or more off future orders.  Read more here...and let me help you select your starter kit items. Contract me via the "Read more" link above.   We'll hold the order until August 1 so that you'll qualify for this free kit...A special offer for signing up between August 1-31, 2012.


        Enjoy!

        Donna Ross
        Stampin' Up! Independent Demonstrator




          



        Saturday, July 28, 2012


        MDS Printing discounts, download discounts, and Announcing MDS 2!



        I can't wait for August 1!  I've been holding this little photo swatchbook for a while -- waiting for a printing special from Stampin' Up so I can make  more copies!  And in August I can print this for 31% off!

        I'm so proud of my nieces who are on the winning 2012 US Synchronized Skating Championship team.  Both of them skated on this year's winning team. 




        I'm going to take advantage of the August My Digital Studio printing special and make copies of this little photo swatchbook for both of them.  These are great to carry in your purse to show off your latest family activities and accomplishments, wedding photos, or favorite memories because of the durable protective cover and the high-quality paper used for printing.  I'm working on another book using my Convention photos, so I have favorite memories and great display board ideas close at hand for inspiration in my craft room.






        Get ready for these August My Digital Studio Specials!


        Get 31% off 31 digital content options and get the most of our print products for all 31 days in August! Feed your My Digital Studio addiction. With digital goods on sale and the 30-day FREE trial of the software, August is the perfect time for you to enter the digital designing craze and see what it's all about.  Or read further to hear about the new release of My Digital Studio.

        What's on sale?
        1.  ALL cards, photobooks, individual pages, and tags.
        That's right: print any photobook, board book, swatchbook, individual pages, greeting card, postcard, trifold card, or tag-all for 31% off.

        2.  Some of our best digital content. 30 downloads and 1 content disc. Yup, that equals 31.


        Also it is a perfect time to upgrade to the new version of My Digital Studio  2 (MDS 2)








        Coming August 1...


        While you're putting together your order from the new Holiday mini catalog,be sure you also include your My Digital Studio Software purchases. Combining your purchases into a single order can qualify your for additional purchasing benefits.  If your order reaches $150 (not including tax and shipping), you qualify for an additional $25 in free products -- products from the main catalog or the Holiday catalog--traditional pproducts or digital downloads.  Don't worry, you'll be prompted to select your free merchandise during the on-line check out process.





        With My Digital Studio 2 Software, Coming August 1, you'll be able to:
        • Design in Spreads
        • Create with custom canvas sizes
        • Add more than one color to a single stamp image
        • Change the color of designer papers or embellishments
        • Resize vector stamp images while keeping them crisp
        • See color combination suggestions
        • And much more...75 new features making designing easier!
        Some versions are software only and other versions include tons of images and contents in addition to the new software.  If you have purchased only a few downloads for your original version of My Digital Studio, now would be a great time to purchase the software plus content disk called MDS 2+.   MDS 2+ adds over $500 worth of downloads to the software disc.  As soon as the final contents are released, I'll post them so you know exactly which downloads are included.  Some of them were available as downloads for the original version of MDS.  In addition, check out the downloads that will be on sale beginning August 1.
        

        31 My Digital Studio Downloads on sale during August


        To see what each of these digital Content packages on sale during August include, visit the My Digital Studio catalog on the My Digital Studio Site.  Look for the link on the right hand side of the page. These downloads that will be on sale beginning August 1.






        Pick My Digital Studio Plus and digital content as part of your Starter Kit when you join as a demonstrator for $99

        Join Stampin' Up! as a Demonstrator and select My Digital Studio Plus and downloads as part of your customizable kit.  If you plan to order over $99 of Stampin' Up! merchandise (digital or products from the catalogs,) This is a great opportunity for you to sign up as a demonstrator for $99, and choose $125 worth of any digital or tradition products from current catalogs and get free shipping!  In August, you'll also receive a Halloween kit..  See photos of the kit I posted yesterday.  Then enjoy your future purchases at a discount.  Find out more here.


        Enjoy!

        Donna Ross
        Stampin' Up! Independent Demonstrator



          

        Friday, July 27, 2012


        Early Halloween Projects - Toxic Framable Digital Template


        I know it's a bit early, but I've been inspired by the new Holiday Mini catalog, which many of you have already received if you've purchased from me during the past year. 

        I received my Holiday Mini Pre-order just before leaving for Convention.  One of my favorite purchases is the Haunts & Harvest Collection Disc for My Digital Studio (1298350).  It is filled with papers and stamps from the Orchard Harvest product suite (p. 28-30) and Howlstooth & Scaringbone product suite (p. 24-25) from the Holiday Mini. 

        I saw the sample at the bottom of p. 25 of the Holiday Mini, and had to print my own version.  Here's a sample I made using a 3 x 5" photo holder.  You can print the Toxic Framable image in a large framable size or in smaller sizes for use on card fronts.

        My versions:




        After printing the digital template in a size that fit a 3 X 5 frame, I backed it with Howlstooth & Scarinbone Designer Series paper (126906).  Then I glued a strip of Pumpkin Pie 1/8" Taffeta Ribbon (119253) to the center of the 1/2" Basic Black Scallop Dots Ribbon (124145)  and tied it in a knot at the top of the printed image.  I keep a candy dish on my desk at work.  I'll display this behind my candy dish.  I love making items ahead of time.  This year, Stampin' Up! is releasing the Holiday Mini a month earlier than usual, which means I might actually have a chance to play with ALL the wonderful items from the catalog before the next mini arrives!

         Here's a framed sample of the Toxic Framable Digital Designer Template from Haunts & Harvest Digital Collection Disc (129835) on display during convention.  You can also purchase this framable artwork as a single digital download (128139).  You save 10% by purchasing the entire Haunts & Harvest Digital Collection Disc (129835) over purchasing all of the downloads on the disc individually, if you're like me and "want it all"!





        The My Digital Studio disc, Haunts & Harvest Collection (129835) (available August 1), from the new catalog includes many digital images of the Halloween stamp sets from the Holiday Mini catalog, including the Toxic Treats set.  Or you can purchase the traditional stamp set separately (w-127898; c 127901) beginning August 1. 

        Below is a swap I received during Convention from Cari Miller using the Toxic Treats stamp set and the Etruscan Elegance jumbo wheel (127868); available August 1. This card had so much texture, showcasing both the new Woodgrain Textured Impressions Embossing Folder (127821) and the Vintage Wallpaper Textured Impressions Embossing Folder (120175). I know I'll be using the Etruscan Elegance jumbo wheel for many card other than Halloween.  It is soooo versatile!  I can see using it for holiday cards, wedding cards, birthday cards, and Valentine's Day cards.  This one will be part of my stamp collection for quite a while.  You'll need to order a jumbo handle (103661). And you note that the image fits the Labels Collection Framelits Dies from the annual catalog p. 191, making it even faster to put together a bunch of holiday cards!






        Join as a demonstrtor for $99 and Pick your own Starter Kit Products

        Many of my customers have received their copy of the new Holiday Mini catalog from me and are busy putting together their "Wish List".  On Wednesday, August 1, you can begin to place orders from the new catalog. 

        If you plan to order over $99 from the new catalog, your better choice is to sign up as a demonstrator.  For $99, you can choose $125.00 worth of any traditional or digital supplies with free shipping...just for signing up as a Stampin' Up! demonstrator. 

        Stampin' Up! has made the new standard Starter Kit completely customizable!  This is a great way to update your supplies with the new In Colors, new dies, new digital downloads, new ribbons and new stamps from either the big catalog or from the Holiday mini.  And after purchasing your Starter Kit order, you'll receive 20% or more off future orders.  Read more here...and let me help you select your starter kit items.  We'll hold the order until August 1 so that you'll qualify for this free kit...A special offer for signing up between August 1-31, 2012.


        
        Get this kit for signing up as a demonstrator between Aug 1-31, 2012
        

        The tray and products to finish your tray are free when you sign up as a demonstrator August 1-31




        Enjoy!

        Donna Ross
        Stampin' Up! Independent Demonstrator
        Private Classes for 1 or a small group of friends:  http://cardmaking.meetup.com/71/