Monday, June 16, 2014

Easy DIY Stencils

Making your own stencils is simple, and can be made quickly with supplies you have on hand.  I made the ones below using a background size die.   You can make them using material that is made specifically for cutting your own stencils or with standard cardstock.  

This first one was made with the stencil material, a sturdy plastic sheet that took a LOT of passes through the Cuttlebug to get a complete cut but can be used over and over.


The stencil below was made using standard cardstock.  I prefer to use cardstock because it's quick, easy to cut and readily available (and cheaper!).  Just trim your cardstock to the desired size and run it through your die cutting machine.  Your stencil is ready to use.


When using cardstock stencils for sponging ink they can be used more than once - it's still in great shape after sponging and you get a nice crisp image.




I love using my cardstock "disposable" stencils with embossing paste because the cleanup can be very messy - it's handy to just be able to use your stencil once and throw it away.


Here I'm using a clear embossing paste mixed with a few drops of reinker.   Tape your stencil in place and spread embossing paste liberally. I use an old gift card to spread the paste evenly.  


You can cover them and get them completely wet and still end up with a crisp image.  Remove your stencil right away before paste starts to dry.


Another way to make your own stencil is by using a smaller die or multiple dies to create your own unique pattern.


Here I'm using a small snowflake die and taping it in place to create a repeating pattern.


 I sponged and spritzed the snowflakes below and the intricate pattern transfers really well.


You could also use an electronic die cutting machine to create your own stencil designs.  I hope you're inspired to give it a try - the possibilities are endless!  

Thanks for stopping by, keep it crafty!


Dies:  Snowflakes, Swirl Cover-Up Die (Lil' Inkers)


Pink and Silver Christmas Wishes - Merry Monday #113

Hey everyone, it's Monday and that means time for another fun challenge at Merry Monday!  This week Kathy would like us to make a Christmas card with only Pink, Silver and White.



Here's Kathy's sweet inspiration photo:


You can see all the details and gorgeous inspiration from the rest of the Design Team here.  Or stop by their blogs and give them some love:

Katie Melhus (you're here!)

and our Featured Designer for June:

Kimberly Weiner

I can't wait to see everyone's entries in the gallery this week, I'm always so impressed with all of the creations.

Thanks for stopping by, keep it crafty!



Supplies: 
Stamp Set: Instant Camera Christmas (Lil Inkers)
Cardstock: Marshmallow (Bazzill) Regal Rose, Silver Glimmer (Stampin' Up)
Misc: Snowflake Die (Lil Inkers), Silver Glitter Brad, Bird and Vine EF

Wednesday, June 11, 2014

Sending Hugs - Colour Me... Playful! CMCC #24

Hey friends, it's Wednesday and that means it's time for another awesome challenge at Colour Me...!  This week we have a pair of great colors to work with:  Marina Mist and Pear Pizzazz.


Here's this week's inspiration photo:


Check out the great inspiration from the other team members and link up your creations, too.  I can't wait to see your goodies in the gallery!
Katie (you're here!)
Tara

and our Featured Designer for June:

Shirley Bampton

Thanks so much for stopping by, keep it crafty!


Tuesday, June 10, 2014

Seize the Sketch Time! STS #22

Hey everyone, it's time for another challenge at Seize the Sketch. This time we have a sketch by  Lori Tecler.



Check out all the great inspiration made by the rest of the DT: 

I can't wait to see all of your creations in the gallery!  Thanks for stopping by, keep it crafty! 


Monday, June 9, 2014

Santa and His Hat - Merry Monday #112

Hey everyone, it's Monday and that means time for another fun challenge at Merry Monday!  This week's theme is to use a Santa Hat on your Christmas Card.  This is such a cute theme this week and it's brought to us by Karren.


Is this some sweet photo inspiration or what?


You can see all the details and gorgeous inspiration from the rest of the Design Team here.  Or stop by their blogs and give them some love:

Katie Melhus (you're here!)

and our Featured Designer for June:

Kimberly Weiner

I can't wait to see everyone's entries in the gallery this week, I'm always so impressed with all of your creations.

Thanks for stopping by, keep it crafty!


Supplies: 
Stamp: Color Me Christmas (Stampin' Up)
Cardstock: Crumb Cake, Real Red, Old Olive, Watercolor Paper (SU)
Patterned Paper: Simple Stories Snap! 6x6 paper pad
Misc: Red and Ivory Twine, Music Notes EF

Wednesday, June 4, 2014

A Thank You - Colour Me...! Monochromatic (CMCC #23)

Hey friends, it's Wednesday and that means it's time for another awesome challenge at Colour Me...!  This week we are working with Coastal Cabana:


Here's this week's Summer-y photo:



Check out the great inspiration from the other team members and link up your creations, too.  I can't wait to see your goodies in the gallery!
Katie (you're here!)
Tara

and our Featured Designer for June:

Shirley Bampton

Thanks so much for stopping by, keep it crafty!


Monday, June 2, 2014

Eat Drink and Be Merry - Merry Monday #111

Hey everyone, it's Monday and that means time for another fun challenge at Merry Monday!  This week's theme is to make a Christmas card using Aqua and White with touches of color.  There are so many possibilities!   This theme was chosen by Karen (who is stepping down) and we will miss her and her lovely creations so much!   Thanks for the great challenge and all the inspiration along the way, Karen!


Here's the festive photo inspiration:



You can see all the details and gorgeous inspiration from the rest of the Design Team here.  Or stop by their blogs and give them some love:

Katie Melhus (you're here!)

and our Featured Designer for June:

Kimberly Weiner

I can't wait to see everyone's entries in the gallery this week, I'm always so impressed with all of the creations.

Thanks for stopping by, keep it crafty!



Supplies: 
Image: Eat, Drink and be Merry (Cut file from Silhouette Online Store)
Patterned Paper and Ribbon (Stampin' Up!)
Cardstock: Marshmallow (Bazzill)
Misc: Rock Candy Distress Glitter, Sequins