Wondering when you will get to try Studio J?

CTMH corporate office plans to make Studio J available to the public in March 2010.  Sign up for updates on Studio J availability via email.  As a consultant who attended the leadership conference last summer when this new product was announced, I am able to have access early as part of the testing and early purchase program. 

Would you like to get a chance to have early access too?  For consultants who have a tier two (e-commerce) MYCTMH website will have access in January 2010 and all consultants will have access in Feb 2010 through the consultant side of the corporate website.  The great news is that all consultants get commision on their purchases/sales of Studio J. 

When you join CTMH as a consultant, you too can have early access and a commision (discount) on all your Studio J layouts.  Interested in learning more?  I would love to meet with you and share the possibilities!  Let's get together!

Hey There Cupcake!

Begin the new year with this fun packed "Cupcake" workshop.  During this workshop, you will have the opportunity to create a cupcake kit box, cupcake gift card holder, cupcake photo stand, and cupcake serving box.  Join meSunday,  January 10th from 2 - 5 p.m. for a sweet time!  We will start with the cupcake kit box shown in photo 1 & 2.  (Mine includes a cake mix, sprinkle and cupcake papers.  You will supply your own "ingredients".)   Then we will make the photo stand shown in photo 4.  The final two projects will be done as time allows but you will receive step by step directions to complete them on your own. 

RSVP with your paper choice by December 31st to order your kit in time. 

The basic workshop kit  is $29.50 includes:

Level 2 paper packet  ($12.95)

Choose one from the following paper packets:

Animal Cookies (Primary Colors)

Day Dream  (Pink, purple, green as shown)

Magic Moments (Cocoa, Sunflower, Blue, Green & Hollyhock

My Creations Memory Keeper box ($ 6.95)

Embellishment package for all projects  ($ 5.00)

Shipping and tax ($4.60)

Make your kit better with the following items:

Cupcake Sprinkles Stamp set               $22.95

Happy Birthday Stamp set                    $22.95

Another Studio J Set

This page is from the Mediterranean cruise Jeff and I went on in October 2009.  I have almost completed the scrapbook in the "classic" style of scrapbooking but ran out of umph when it came to finishing the last set of photos.  Studio J has been my answer!  The paper packet I choose for this scrapbook, Vintage Travel, is a choice on Studio J so it makes it easy to continue with my scrapbook as planned. 

As I was scrapbooking today with paper, I wanted to see what these photos would look like on the layout.  So, I was able to map out the photos, crop them and create a similar layout.  I have the photos on order at Costco and will be able to place them in the layout when I pick them up.  I will buy the layout I created on Studio J and send it to my brother and his wife as a gift.  Loving the possibilities of Studio J...using it to plan my classic scrapbooking!

Studio J Scrapbooking

I have had the opportunity to use the Studio J online scrapbooking and it is so much fun to play with.  Even a little addicting some might say!  And it is so easy to use!  First you upload your photos, second, you pick your CTMH kit, third choose your pattern, and finally, personalize it!  Add embellishments, distress the papers, type your journaling, create a title.  Then play some more to get it just right.  Here are a couple of the layouts that I have done so far.  Ignore the gray lines on the upper edge of the image.  (They are part of the screen capture and won't show on the layout.)

Merry Christmas to all!

I wish you all a blessed Christmas with your family and friends. 

A Little Birdie Told Me

The Felicity stamp set has this little and another even littler bird.  It looks cute sitting atop the large flourish stamped in twilight.  This card is for my friend Paula who is celebrating her birthday today! 

The exciting National Papercrafting Month Constant Campaign featuring the Felicity Collection starts December 15, 2009 for hostesses and customers.  Let me show you how you can earn it for free! 

Felicity

When I heard the name of the National Paper Craft Month special, Felicity, I immediately thought of the American Girl doll.  So, I thought I should look up the actual definition.  Pleasing and appropriate manner or style (especially manner or style of expression).  Happiness: state of well-being characterized by emotions ranging from contentment to intense joy.  Well, that truly describes this paper packet special. 

The Felicity Collection features decorative die-cut paper, three gorgeous color schemes, and a D-size stamp set that include flowers, flourishes, argyle, birds, and an entire alphabet!  Although it took me a couple of days to cut up this paper, I found this cute flip album and paired it with photos of my nephew's visit at Thanksgiving and created this fun, interactive album.  The Felicity paper packet has three sets of colors and you can easily adapt the album for any of the color sets and/or themes you might like. 

I will have a free workshop for this mini album and other projects on January 10th at 2 p.m.  You can purchase the kit for $34.95 beginning December 15th or even better you can get it for free!  Contact me for the details.  If you purchase the kit but can't make it to the workshop, I will email you directions for the mini album.  And, here are some more photos of this album.

Art & Soul

Every second Tuesday of the month, Close to My Heart releases a webisode packed full of ideas, tips, and lots of fun using product.  And, they offer a featured product at a discount, available for purchase on the consultant's website.  Today is the day for the new episode "Happy Highlights".  I always love the surprises I see each month.  Take a look at the webisode and if you like it, you can always view past ones!  Let me know what you think! 

Reap The Rewards 2010!

Close to My Heart will be releasing its Spring 2010 idea book on Jan 1st.  I have had a sneak peak at this book and am very excited about the new papers, embellishments, and ideas!  Do you love the Close to My Heart Products also?  Is your wish list often longer than you can afford?  I have a solution for you and you can start the program any time! 

Reap the Rewards Program

Agree to purchase $15 or more each month for 10 months
before shipping and tax are added. Optional budget plan is $25 each month for 6 months.
Earn at least $25 in product credit during your final month
In the last month of your program commitment, you will receive the “hostess benefits”, a minimum of $25 in product credit. But you have the option of increasing your rewards! As the total sales for the month increases, your reward amount increases! You can invite your family and friends to help you earn additional product credit by submitting orders during that month as well. *Shipping and tax rates still apply.

Exclusive sneak peaks! Receive new Idea Books - FREE
As a program member you will receive the new Idea Book approximately one week earlier than non-program members…for FREE!

Reap rewards for your consistency! Earn an exclusive booking set!
All orders are to be submitted by the 10th of each month, for the length of your term. As a reward for your consistency, you will receive your choice of a free booking stamp set or an additional $5 in product credit. Refer to the back page of the Idea Book for the petite perks set (previous booking sets may be available as well).

Orders shipped promptly via UPS directly to your front door
When your family and friends order through an email invitation, helping you reap more rewards, their products will be shipped right to them. Imagine, you live in Washington and your friend lives in New York. You both can choose to have your products shipped directly to your own home!

Share your passion (refer friends) and earn bonuses
You know a good thing when you see it. So why not share it with your friends? For every friend you refer who becomes a new member, you will receive $10 in additional product credit upon successful completion of their term. There is no limit, so refer everyone you know. *Shipping and tax rates still apply.

Take advantage of additional specials and earn even more
You'll have the opportunity to take advantage of Close To My Heart specials, promotions and the Stamp of the Month increasing your rewards.

Fill up your Connection Club card with your club purchases
Your purchases also count towards earning the Connection Club gift! See the back page of the Idea book for current rewards.

You may cancel your obligations at any time.

Please note: All earned rewards and bonuses (excluding referral credit) will be forfeited if program term is not successfully completed.

Contact me today if this program is for you.

Jingle All the Way!

This weekend I will be doing workshops:  scrapbooking using the Jingle papers, Heartfelt Wonder embellishments, and twinkle brads.  There is still time to join us!  I love how these pages turned out am looking forward to getting our Christmas tree so I can put some photos on the pages!  Watch for the next post featuring the cards for this weekend workshops. 

Inspired by the wonderfully creative Karen Pedersen. 

Holiday Heyday With Our Online Clearance Sale Beginning Wed Dec 2nd!

Get all your holiday shopping done in one spot this year with our online clearance sale! Many items are 50% off, with some discounted as much as 80% off regular retail. The selection is incredible, too! Shopping begins Wednesday, December 2 at 9 a.m. MT. Sale has quantities restricted to FIVE per item to provide a smooth shopping experience for all customers.

Shipping is weight based for orders of $99.99 or less but flat rate of $5 for order of $100+.
Note that clearance items may not be combined with regular-priced items in a single shopping cart, and clearance purchases are not eligible for any Constant Campaign qualification or Stamp of the Month.

How do you access this sale? Go to my website> shop online> clearance. This will direct you to the wonderful deals you won't want to miss!  If you would like to preview the list of items, email me and I will send you the list. 
Let me know if I can help you with your holiday projects or gifts!

Cyber Monday at CTMH

Don't miss this last day of Stampaganza (midnight Nov 30th, MT)  This a great sale and you have the comfort of shopping from your own home, in your jammies, after the kids are in bed!  For the Stampaganza details, visit my website, and then sit down and shop! 

Did you know that CTMH will be retiring about 150 stamp sets at the end of December?  To see the stamp sets we must say good bye to, to make room for new, click here!  These sets also qualify for the Stampaganza special!  Another reason to take advantage of cyber Monday at CTMH! 

More online specials to come in early December! 

Gift Ideas From Close to My Heart

Take some time to consider gift ideas from Close to My Heart even for those who may not be crafters. Everyone can use a great pair of sharp, smooth cutting microtip scissors. Or what about our new shoulder bag. The colors are a stunning spring iris with black and the size and detailing are great for anyone. Shopping is easy! Visit my website to place your orders or email me with your orders.


Just a reminder that Stampaganza continues through November 30th! This offer allows you to purchase two stamp set and get a third one for free. This is a great opportunity to save on gifts for those who scrapbook and stamp.

Gifts Under $10

My Reflections Level 1 Scrapbook Kit with Stickease $9.95 Multiple sets to choose from

My Reflections Stickease Assortment $4.95 Mulitple sets to choose from

9x9 Simply Snapshots $8.95 Page: 31

Fancy Cuts Botanicals $3.95 Page: 94

My Creations Memory Keeper $6.95 Page: 95

12x12 Monthly Calendar $7.95 Page: 95

My Creations Display Album $7.95 Page: 95

Texture Tools $9.95 Page: 95

Corner Rounder $7.95 Page: 98

Liquid Glass $6.95 Page 98

Micro Tip Scissors $9.95 Page 98

Personalized Name Stamp $7.95 Page 87

Gifts $10 to $15

My Reflections Level 2 Paper Kits $12.95 Multiple sets to choose from

My Original Card Kits $14.95 Multiple sets to choose from Page: 32-33

My Pages Talk Recorder $14.95 Page: 92

Accessories Case $12.95 Page 99

Personalized address/signature stamp $10.95 Page 87

Gifts $15 - $25

Personalized address/signature stamp with icon $12-20 Page 87

Gifts $25-$35

Shoulder Tote $29.95 Page 99



Do you need gift suggestions to pass on to your family?
What about a CTMH kit for $99 which includes over $350 in stamping and scrapbooking product from the new Spring 2010 Idea Book? This also includes a 10% to 22% discount of any future purchases from CTMH. If you are interested in knowing more about this, please contact me or have your "Santa" give me a jingle.
This New Year, give yourself the gift of time to connect with friends you haven't seen in awhile, an opportunity to have some fun being creative and free scrapbooking or stamping products. And, best of all, I do all the work! Let's set a date today!


Thanks for stopping by. Michele

Happy Thanksgiving

Hope you are enjoying a day of celebration, remember the blessings you have been given. 

Michele

Tutorial: "Backside" stamping

An easy way to "color" a stamped image is to use the back side of the stamp.  In this tutorial, I will show you the simple steps to take and take the "white" out of the image and replace it with a softer color.  First, stamp your image. 

Here I used the garnet ink and stamp set from the Sweet Home Workshop on The Go. 

Next, after cleaning the stamp, I removed it from the block, turned it over and put it on the block, image side down.  I ink the backside, stamped off on scratch paper and then stamped over the orginal flower image.

Finally, I cut the image out using the microtip scissors and added it to my card. 

The finished card.  I used this technique on all the stamped images, including the border on the upper left hand square.  Your turn.  Give this technique a try and send me a photo of the results! 

Two stamp sets, 6 very different cards!

Making the most out of your stamp set is sometimes a challenge but thinking "out of the box" creates more value in the product you have!  We used two different stamp sets, D1369 Delightful Things and D1361 Thank You.  By using both the image and back side of some of the stamps, the ornament on the 3 1/2 x 8 card were created.  The tree is created using the "etched" corner from the Delightful Things set.  Other images were created by stamping a single stamp multiple time or by masking.  Lots of interesting "out of the box" ideas.  Watch for a tutorial of stamping with the image and back side of the stamp to create a colored in appearing stamp.  So fast, simple and easy yet beautiful!

Sneak Peek at New Porduct

While in Portland at the CTMH Regional Celebration, we did get a sneak peek at the journal.  The cover has a plastic pocket so you can personalize it.  Stay tuned for more details when the Spring Idea Book goes live on Jan 1 2010. 

Santa's Workshop Registration is Open!

Time for the little elves to come and make some home made Christmas items. RSVP and prepay for your items by Friday November 20th.  Workshop will be held Saturday Dec 5th 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.  Kids are welcome from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.  Email me to register. 

Memory Keepers: Preserve Christmas cards or other special items in a beautiful keepsake box. $15 per box.
 
 
 

Gift card holders: Add a special touch to your gift card with a handmade “packaging”. These simple but cute holders make giving a gift card even more fun. Envelope included. $1.
 
 
 
 

Holiday Peppermint Kit: This kit is made by decorating a CD case, adding peppermint and chocolate treats, and if you choose, make a gift card holder to include with it or separately. Wrapped with a special paper ribbon and embellished with a candy cane and showflakes, this is a fun treat for a friend or teacher. $4 per case.  Includes candy and tea, cocoa or cider mixes. 
 
 

Mini accordian album: Using two coasters, patterned papers and an accordian fold, create this mini album to share memories with relatives and friends. Choose from feminine and masculine paper packets $3 per book.
 
 
 
 

Note Holders: Need a gift for a teacher, co-worker or friend? These cute little Post-It note clip boards are great for anyone’s desk! Several papers to choose from. $3 or 2 for $5.
 
 
 
 
 

Ho, Ho, Ho Wall Hanging: This decoration is easy to make and simple to display. Makes a great hostess gift and you might want one for yourself too! JOY is available also. $4 each.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Gift Basket! – This adorable gift basket is fast and simple to create! It makes a great “basket” for any Christmas gift. Fill it with teaching supplies, baked goods, etc. (Kits will ) $3 per basket or 2 for $5

Artwork from Regional Celebration

Take a very cute card kit from the idea book, add a stamp set and ink, maybe a couple of buttons and sparkles and you get this fabulous holiday decoration.  I made this at the Portland Regional Convention and it is so easy, inexpensive and fast!  You can make one too!  See the product list below! 

Shop now for the products to make this:

My Original Around the Holidays Card Kit (Makes two banners)

Posterboard Alphabet

Basic Buttons

Vintage Edge Anchors

Clear Sparkles

Portland Regional Celebrations!

I had the opportunity to spend last weekend in Portland for a CTMH Regional Celebration.  I enjoy the opportunities that CTMH offer but best of all, I love the friends that I get to spend time with through CTMH events.  I drove down with four wonderful ladies, some of the my downline, others who are "cousins".  We spent time stamping, scrapbooking, attending business classes, sharing ideas, and just getting to know one another better.  That is the best part, getting to know one another better.  I am so blessed to work with these wonderful people! 

Put it on your Calendar! Holiday Vendor Show

Holiday Gift Extravaganza

 

Thursday, Nov 19th 7-9pm

 

Saturday Nov 21st 11am-2pm

 

If you are in the Seattle area, join me and my friends for this great holiday shopping event. 

• When you RSVP, I will have a free gift when you come to the show.  
• When you bring a friend, you and your friend will receive a free product based on the total of your CTMH order. 
• And it is Stampaganza month with CTMH, which means when you buy two stamp sets, you get one free! 

Finish your holiday shopping early this year, AND SKIP THE MALL MADNESS. You will be able to take care of everyone on your list family, friends, coworkers, teachers and gifts for you. Get stocking stuffers, too!

 

Vendors on Thursday

Advocare

Close to My Heart

Creative Memories

Handmade jewelry, scarves & hats

Pampered Chef

Pink Papaya

Tastefully Simple

 

Vendors on Saturday

Advocare

Creative Memories

Handmade scarves and hats

Pampered Chef

Pink Papaya

Stampin UP!

Tastefully Simple

 

Ways to earn tickets for the drawings

 

*RSVP to the consultant who invited you

 

*Bring a friend or a car-full of friends

 

*And more bonuses offered that day!!

 

Gingerbread House Gift Box

The November Stamp of the month is called "Around the Block" and is so much fun!  I went around the "bloghop" of CTMH consultants who have posted their artwork and it was so fun to see the diversity of "homes" created with this set.  My favorite so far is the Gingerbread style inspired by Karen Pederson.  That is probably because I love to bake and decorate gingerbread houses for the holidays. 

The gift box I made above is from consultant, Paige Dolecki,  and she has a great tutorial on her blog.   I am using mine as a hostess gift for this weekend.  My only problem is I am not sure what to put in it!  Any ideas would be greatly appreciated.  If you want to see more artwork using this stamp set, get a warm drink and begin the "hop around the blog".

Retiring Stamp Sets

In order to make room for some new stamps, annually, Close to My Heart retires stamp sets.  Although it is sad to see them go, it is exciting to anticipate the new!  Stamp sets designated for retirement at the end of 2009 will be featured in their own category on my Close to My Heart website beginning Monday, November 2, just in time for Stampaganza. Retiring stamps will still be listed in their respective categories (summer, everyday life, etc.), but will also be highlighted in their own category in the shop online section.  Review this list to make sure your favorite stamp set is not retiring from our selection.  If you have started a specific collection, such as the monthly word puzzles, you may want to complete the set before it retires. 

Sweet Home Card Workshops

Home sweet home! The crochet-like images paired with the Sweet Home Level 2 paper packet and coordinating accessories will wrap your memories in down-home warmth and beauty!  Join me on the following dates to create these cards featured in the Workshop Guide in the Sweet Home Kit. 
Friday, November 20th, 9:30 a.m. or 7 p.m.

Sunday, November 22nd 6:30 p.m.

The flash "shine" in the top card is from the "Top Coats- Framed In" acetate I used to dress up these cards.  Although for these cards, I cut them up, they are 4x6 in size, fitting perfectly over your photos, adding a unique design from these photo-size transparencies. Remove clear protective film before using. An easy way to do this is to use the rub and erase to pull up the corner of the film, getting it started, and then further pulling them (6 White Daisy, 6 Colonial White)

"Top Coats- Framed In"  $4.95 item number Z1211.

Works like an eraser to remove misplaced adhesive or rub-ons. (2" x 2") $2.95 Z1207

You can order both of these products on my website.