tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-57973365772196041992012-01-24T22:46:38.924-06:00Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.comBlogger7861100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-79331209415757827612012-01-24T22:46:00.000-06:002012-01-24T22:46:38.935-06:00

Tomorrow that is... going to the 2012 Craft and Hobby Association Trade Show in Anaheim. Can't wait to see all the new products, sit in on some seminars, do some make-and-takes with the latest and greatest and, best of all, Tracy and I get to take an all-day workshop with Tim Holtz on Thursday! I'm hoping I can add some updates here while I'm in California.  We have a busy schedule, but I'll

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-23022010105969907812012-01-20T14:36:00.000-06:002012-01-20T14:36:57.871-06:00

I just heard about the children's hospital Valentine Day card drive that Winter Sims is organizing.  If you enjoy making cards and have a little time to create, this would be a wonderful way to put some smiles on little faces. All the details can be found on her blog:    Children's Hospital Card DriveBut hurry, as the deadline is the end of the month to get the cards to her. 

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-58942483686903592732012-01-17T13:07:00.001-06:002012-01-17T13:09:33.588-06:00

It's been awhile since I've worked in my art journal and I've missed it! I love starting with a blank page with no preconceived notions of what it should be and just playing. I had signed up for a Strathmore Online Workshop (did I mention it was free!). When I received an e-mail that the course "Doodles Unleashed" with Traci Bautista was posted I was excited to get started.  This is a four-week

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-1749087651321531392012-01-15T14:48:00.000-06:002012-01-15T14:48:06.063-06:00

We're having a baby shower for my daughter, Kelly, in February and I volunteered to do the invitations. She's having a little boy and decorating his nursery with a jungle theme in soft pastels.  We decided to go with a monkey-themed shower and this is what I came up with for the invitations. I used the "Create a Critter" Cricut cartridge for the layered monkey and tree branch and a Cuttlebug

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-2851055214623978192012-01-09T15:00:00.001-06:002012-01-09T15:00:01.854-06:00

This is another project I designed for class at The Little Blue House. It's a 12" x 12" canvas using similar techniques as I used in the tree canvas gift I recently made.  Lots of layering and using cool "tools" to create a unique background for the paper heart. I love how this turned out.  More information on the class can be found on the LBH blog (see link above).

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-46516788670606714412012-01-08T22:19:00.001-06:002012-01-08T22:20:30.756-06:00

Come join me for a new Specialty Card Class on Thursday, January 19, 10am - noon, at the LBH!  We are starting a new bi-monthly card class that will feature fun techniques and different card styles to take your cardmaking-skills up a notch.  This month we will focus on pop-up cards.   I had so much fun making these cards and you will too! Now check them out opened. Check out the LBH blog to

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-57972467483949553812012-01-01T16:07:00.000-06:002012-01-01T16:07:08.396-06:00

Happy New Year, friends. I wish you good health, good times with family and friends and a year filled with lots of time for art.  Have you made any resolutions yet?  I hope to do more art journaling and mixed media art this year, along with my designing and teaching commitments at The Little Blue House.  Many thanks to those of you who continue to read my blog and make comments. You inspire me

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-7920012008823294942011-12-31T14:47:00.000-06:002011-12-31T14:47:10.118-06:00

We exchanged names at the LBH for Christmas gift-giving this year. The gifts had to be handmade and everything was top secret until our party. I made an altered tree canvas for Lynette, inspired by Christy Tomlinson's post and video here which, in turn, was inspired by www.undermypolkadotumbrella.blogspot.com.  I loved making this - it's such a freeing and messy and fun project.  I used lots

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-12864723164889001802011-12-31T01:19:00.000-06:002011-12-31T01:19:14.480-06:00

We're back from spending Christmas week in New York with our oldest daughter who lives there. Our son from San Francisco and another daughter from Chicago met us there and we had a wonderful time.  We didn't even have any problems traveling non-rev there and back - quite unusual!  It was a relaxing (if you can call being in the big city relaxing) and non-traditional holiday for us.  We played

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-38534187641020938682011-12-19T20:04:00.000-06:002011-12-19T20:04:42.627-06:00

This is one of the Christmas presents I made for my pregnant daughter and her hubby.  At The Little Blue House we have been teaching a similar project, but as a countdown to Christmas.  I decided to change it up and do a countdown to the birth day (March 31).  But, since this would only get used a few times (for pregnancies), I changed it to birthday so it could also be brought out for

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-37524376734496069122011-12-14T20:28:00.000-06:002011-12-14T20:28:22.135-06:00

As I announced earlier this fall, our very first grandbaby - little Carl William - is due the end of March.  That is exciting enough, but at our family gathering on Thanksgiving, we were surprised by another daughter that she, too, is expecting!  So we will be doubly blessed with little ones next year.  The second - we won't know the sex for a few more months - is due the end of June.  Suffice

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-30776578181855995292011-12-09T21:55:00.000-06:002011-12-09T21:55:16.810-06:00

Have you been following along (with the rest of the crafting world) on Tim's 12 Tags of Christmas blog posts?  (www.timholtz.typepad.com)  Every day he posts a new Christmas tag using lots of techniques and, of course, many of his own products.  If not, you are missing out on a treat. This is the fifth year for the tags and only one year have I managed to make most of the tags! So tonight I

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-38675943127428468802011-12-05T22:53:00.005-06:002011-12-06T12:02:09.254-06:00

I've finished the sample for the December project for the LBH Art Group - a technique-laden Christmas canvas.  Each icon incorporates a different technique using Distress Inks, resists, stamping and more. There are still available seats in both classes: Wednesday, Dec. 7 from 6-9 pm and Friday, Dec. 9 from 10am-1pm.  Call the LBH at 817-431-7930 to reserve a spot. More details and a list of

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-9391823720206882822011-11-30T21:20:00.000-06:002011-11-30T21:20:02.533-06:00

How can that possibly be?  It was just summer! We are busy, busy at The Little Blue House getting ready for our second annual "Little Somethings" Workshops starting tomorrow. Our theme this year is the "Creative Express" with stops at Jolly Junction, Candy Cane Crossing and Tinsel Town.  We will have five three-hour sessions of workshops making ... little somethings! I can't divulge the specifics

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-9385461381798110642011-11-27T23:41:00.000-06:002011-11-27T23:41:32.407-06:00

Happy Belated Thanksgiving to everyone. We went out of town for the holiday and I'm just getting around to posting the last two days' ornaments for The Little Blue House. Day 11 Fa La La Folded Tree Ornament by Tracy Pounds  Day 12 Angel Tree Topper by Elaine Howell Be sure to check out the LBH blog (www.thelittlebluehouseblog.blogspot.com) for the details on how to make this ornament and

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-62628483520082378882011-11-23T00:30:00.000-06:002011-11-23T00:30:24.844-06:00

Only a few more days to go! The last ornament will be revealed on Thanksgiving day.  We hope you are having fun reading along and, hopefully, making at least a few of these pretties for your own tree. Today's designer is Cheryl McCarson who teaches the "Icing on the Cake" cake decorating classes at LBH (yes, we're a multi-media art studio!). Visit the blog here to find out how to make these

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-10013401841242543162011-11-21T21:10:00.000-06:002011-11-21T21:10:03.917-06:00

Miss Tracy is the designer of today's ornament posted on the LBH blog here.  It's a beautiful paper mache ornament featuring art metal and a fun transfer and embossing technique using music paper and Maya Road mists. Go visit the blog to see the full step-out photo tutorial and, while there, be sure to leave a comment.  Tell us how many trees you put up for the holidays and you may be the

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-84360127794911890512011-11-20T14:30:00.000-06:002011-11-20T14:30:33.393-06:00

My tutorial for a pretty cardinal ornament is posted today on the LBH blog. Check it out here: www.thelittlebluehouseblog.blogspot.com and be sure to leave us a comment telling us your favorite Christmas cookie. You just may win one of my ornaments! I used a fun technique for today's ornament with paper napkins, Ultra Light Paper Clay and a bit of Mod Podge.  The full instructions are on the

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-18736874173150607152011-11-19T21:50:00.000-06:002011-11-19T21:50:36.101-06:00

Kristyn's Glitzy Glamour Ornaments are posted on the LBH blog today.  Check out her fantastic tutorial for making your very own glitter and glam goodies.  And if you leave a comment you just might win one of these for your very own tree! Tomorrow I will be posting a fun ornament using Ultra Light Paper Clay and cocktail napkins!

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-43521721312400354672011-11-18T18:36:00.000-06:002011-11-18T18:36:26.256-06:00

Today Rhonda posted a "snow" pretty snowflake ornament for the sixth day of the LBH 12 Days of Ornaments. She used some wooden snowflakes from Maya Road, Sugar Dust and a Viva Decor Pearl pen to create this beautiful addition for your tree. Visit the LBH blog for the tutorial on how to make this and be sure to leave a comment for a chance to win the ornament. Congratulations to Sarah for winning

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-36713523987680325802011-11-17T23:10:00.000-06:002011-11-17T23:10:56.239-06:00

Sugared Tart Tin Tree Designed by Susan Tidwell Here's today's ornament over on the LBH blog designed by yours truly, me!  I used a package of Jenni  Bowlin tart tins and turned them upside down to create a little tree.  Check out the complete tutorial on the blog here and comment for a chance to win this ornament! There's still seven more days of ornaments, so check back every day for the

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-81046895784176540452011-11-16T10:33:00.000-06:002011-11-16T10:33:58.050-06:00

Are all these beautiful ornaments getting you in the mood for the holidays? I am, despite the summer-like temps we still have in TX!  Rhonda's darling Christmas Santa ornament is up next on the blog (www.thelittlebluehouseblog.blogspot.com). Please visit the blog for the full tutorial. She uses some new products including Viva's Inka Gold paints and Ranger Rock Candy Distress Crackle paint.  

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-52599293489953890592011-11-15T23:35:00.000-06:002011-11-15T23:35:52.832-06:00

Check out Elaine's beautiful origami flower ornaments on the LBH blog today at www.thelittlebluehouseblog.blogspot.com .  And find out how to make your very own pearl garland with Viva Pearl Pens - an awesome technique! Leave a comment telling us your favorite holiday drink and you might just win one of these beauties! Congrats to Karen G. for winning the ribbon tree ornament yesterday!

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-14847492569797940702011-11-14T09:00:00.000-06:002011-11-14T09:00:50.535-06:00

Our second ornament has been posted. This one was created by Kristyn. It's a beautiful ruffled Christmas tree! Go to the Little Blue House blog to see the full tutorial and be sure to comment for a chance to win this darling ornament.  Congratulations to Donna T for winning yesterday's LBH ornament!

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-31618466148537388262011-11-13T12:34:00.000-06:002011-11-13T12:34:37.673-06:00

Our first ornament is, fittingly, a little blue house ornament designed by Miss Tracy! A complete photo tutorial on how to make this adorable little house is on The Little Blue House blog today.  Be sure to comment on the post for a chance to win your very own ornament and, if you'd like to make one, kits are available too.  This is a custom house created exclusively for the LBH by Heart of

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-85951426683910535952011-11-12T20:10:00.001-06:002011-11-12T20:11:56.524-06:00

We had such a great time creating ornaments last year thatthe Little Blue House is doing it again. Each day one of the LBH Gals will post, on the LBH blog, a full tutorial with pictures  on how to make an ornament.  The fun starts tomorrow (November 13) and one ornament will be featured each day until the  last ornament is revealed on November 24, Thanksgiving Day. Each day a lucky commenter

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-16551055592919438102011-11-11T22:50:00.000-06:002011-11-11T22:50:29.948-06:00

Wednesday and today I taught all about alcohol inks at my Blue House Art Group classes. We had alot of fun playing with many techniques.  One was a resist technique using Archival black ink (for whatever reason this seems to only work with that ink).  In a nutshell, you apply one or several colors of alcohol ink to acetate or any clear, non-porous surface.  Once this is dry you stamp an image

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-76522118077511585042011-11-05T00:03:00.000-05:002011-11-05T00:03:54.450-05:00

My husband and I are expecting our very first grandchild and we just found out this morning that it will be a boy! We are so very excited and can't wait for the March 31 due date!  I'll keep you posted on any news during the next several months. I apologize for my absence here this past week. I've been inundated with work at The Little Blue House - teaching current classes, prepping for future

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-48708942972581693302011-10-27T10:00:00.001-05:002011-10-27T10:00:09.860-05:00

I had another class with Stacy of Stacy Stamps.  She has really nice cling-mounted rubber stamps in a variety of styles.  We made these four very simple Christmas cards which are easily reproduced in quantity and wouldn't require extra packaging or postage. This guy is my favorite. I like the wood-grain embossed background and the addition of the little twig.  Stamping the cardinal on red

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-5248599280423828692011-10-26T15:40:00.000-05:002011-10-26T15:40:01.506-05:00

I think I've finally rested (?) from our whirlwind long weekend at the Collins Group show in Houston.  We drove to Houston on Thursday afternoon and started classes bright and early on Friday morning (8 am).  Anyone who knows me knows I'm a nightowl, not a morning person, so this was difficult for me!  Classes ran 1.5 hours with about 10-15 minutes between - just enough to find the next classroom

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-39657320540004263852011-10-25T00:06:00.000-05:002011-10-25T00:06:26.595-05:00

This is the make-and-take tag I made with Tim Holtz at the trade show last weekend. We used his Halloween kraft resist paper, kraft glassine paper, distress stains and Perfect Pearls mists and some Ideology trinkets. I love the vintage tinsel on the bottom of the tag.  We also added a grungeboard diecut easel on the back so it will stand on its own. Tim graciously posted the instructions for

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-89950069924980917122011-10-18T15:27:00.001-05:002011-10-18T15:28:37.037-05:00

We returned from Houston last night and I'm recuperating! The show was amazing - loads of inspiration, education, fun classes and projects, and lots of new products!  I have lots to share, but need to deal with real life for a few days. Here's a photo of some of the goodies I came back with - and this doesn't include all the catalogs from vendors or my finished projects!   (Edit - this loot

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-25089653806874449962011-10-12T23:33:00.001-05:002011-10-12T23:38:06.274-05:00

Tomorrow I'll be going to Houston for a regional retailers' trade show with Tracy and Elaine, my LBH "co-instructors."  Vendors will be showing us their newest and greatest products and we will be taking many classes. Looking forward to being the student for a change!  The highlight of the weekend will be a day-long class on Monday with none other than Tim Holtz.  Can't wait!  I'll update you

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-33024857517437592012011-10-09T21:37:00.000-05:002011-10-09T21:37:37.925-05:00

I can't believe it's been an entire week - I've been a bad blogger!  We had such a successful open house that all I've done this week is either teach classes or prep kits for future classes! I'm taking a break today to catch up on everything and I also took some time to get back to playing in my art journal.  I started several backgrounds:  playing with spray mists glueing down leftover pieces

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-36504415321508470592011-10-03T10:00:00.002-05:002011-10-03T10:00:02.142-05:00

It may be the beginning of October, but here in Texas we have a long way to go before we can say it's fall. This week we're actually getting a "cold spell" with mid-80's temps!  At least we can create autumn projects. I belong to a Yahoo group that is starting a new monthly challenge. One member posts a "make-and-take" project with specific guidelines and then we can play along, creating a

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-24217450435762821832011-10-01T08:43:00.001-05:002011-10-01T08:43:00.171-05:00

The remaining classes for the current feature are centered around family, home and our heritage. This is the heritage layout I designed using the Vintage Blue paper collection from Glitz Designs. "Cherish the Past" Layout A beautiful shadowbox made from an old drawer - perfect for showcasing special memorabilia from the past.  Or, it could also be used for college or baby or wedding memories,

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-75943961095848516312011-09-30T13:12:00.000-05:002011-09-30T13:12:57.483-05:00

We created two fantastic wreaths for fall classes. The first is a beautiful burlap wreath with "pin-ups" to change out from season to season.  The Halloween pin-up is a large black bat and there will be a fall pin-up as well (still in the works). This welcome turkey wreath for Thanksgiving is my personal favorite.  Isn't he adorable? These are the fall pumpkin toppers that can be changed out

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-67634947216638357552011-09-29T10:00:00.003-05:002011-09-30T13:02:27.053-05:00

This project was very difficult to photograph.  Last spring we made these pretty wooden pedestals with glass and china plates and had birdhouse "accessories" to place on top.  For Halloween we created a witch's hat and pumpkin treat holder for the accessories.   pumpkin treat bowl shown on pedestal closeup of treat holder witch's hat - lots of glitter and  sparkle closeup of hat with

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-60953436384292395012011-09-28T20:29:00.000-05:002011-09-28T20:29:37.896-05:00

Here are more of our Halloween class projects at the LBH.  Click on the link to find out more about each class. "Spooky" Pumpkin Toppers and Pumpkins "Beware" Halloween Banner (designed by me) "Candy Corn Family" "Candy Countdown"  Calendar "Too Cute to Spook" Minibook We will start teaching these on Oct. 1 so be sure to reserve your spot in a class!

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-90828389144811052742011-09-25T20:08:00.000-05:002011-09-25T20:08:12.828-05:00

I created these two non-traditional small art quilts for the fall lineup of classes at the LBH.  They are each approximately 9"x11" on a canvas foundation.  They are displayed back-to-back on a neat wooden display stand, but are two totally separate hangings.  The idea is that you could change them out for each season or holiday.  Both quilts are very textural, combining fabrics and papers with

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-42306384746424628332011-09-23T22:03:00.000-05:002011-09-23T22:03:35.989-05:00

Happy First Birthday/Anniversary to The Little Blue House!  One year ago today we opened the doors to our little "home away from home."  It's been a fantastic year,  filled with lots of creating, meeting new friends and reconnecting with "old" friends, teaching new and fun techniques and, most of all, having a blast the entire time! We are celebrating today and tomorrow in tandem with our "

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-78410250361291419462011-09-16T23:20:00.000-05:002011-09-16T23:20:29.653-05:00

The Blue House Art Group met last week and we swapped ATCs with a summer theme.  Several months ago we did a spring ATC swap so we now have two of the four seasons to display. This was the ATC I made for everyone.  The first thing that comes to my mind for summer is swimming at the beach and I love vintage photos, so I used an image from the 1920's.  The background was done with the "wrinkle-free

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-58144690261612839782011-09-13T20:45:00.000-05:002011-09-13T20:45:47.281-05:00

It's crunch time at the LBH as we are designing and creating Halloween and fall class projects for the upcoming Open House next weekend.  We are busy, busy, busy! And you should see my wreck of an art room! Since I won't be able to share any current projects this week, I'm posting an art journal page I did several weeks ago.  It took days to do as I kept going back and covering up or adding more.

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-87763280021750233072011-09-11T10:02:00.000-05:002011-09-11T10:02:36.829-05:00

In loving memory of all those who lost their lives for freedom May we never forget!

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-40006841855739927162011-09-09T20:36:00.000-05:002011-09-09T20:36:25.841-05:00

Remember this card I shared a few days ago that I created for the Front Porch Kit gallery? Want to learn more about the techniques I used for the embossed background and the grungy gears? Check out my tutorial, complete with step-out photos, that I posted yesterday on the Front Porch Kit blog HERE.  Hope you enjoy it!

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-28153686879306309262011-09-04T13:07:00.000-05:002011-09-04T13:07:45.055-05:00

I'm finally getting around to posting my last projects from the "Time To..." Front Porch Kit.  For this mini cupcake stand, I used one of Wendy Vecchi's Art Parts which is a thick, durable paperboard surface for altering. It's much sturdier than chipboard and can be painted, decoupaged, inked, misted and stamped.  I first painted it with white paint and then decoupaged the gorgeous floral paper

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-40166312617684952032011-09-01T11:36:00.001-05:002011-09-01T11:39:54.072-05:00

Warning - this post is filled with random stuff that I've been meaning to post. First off, the new gallery for the "Time to..." Front Porch Kit is now up and running.  Click on over to see all the fabulous projects made by the Design Team. I also wanted to share that my online group (An Affair With Art) is featured in the October issue of Scrap & Stamp Arts Magazine!  The two-page article

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-21519888283228823072011-08-28T10:00:00.001-05:002011-08-28T10:00:01.720-05:00

Two more of my projects created from the "Time to..." Front Porch Kit.  The first card is a horizontal bi-fold card using several of the patterned papers, ribbon and embroidery floss.  The yellow flower is a handmade crocheted piece included in the kit. I topped it with a mini accordion rosette made from book pages in the kit.  I also did some machine stitching on this card.  The second card is

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-91796680836154049702011-08-25T10:00:00.000-05:002011-08-25T10:00:01.787-05:00

Remember this sneak from last week?  Did anyone guess what it might be? This "Time to..." kit comes with a little white clock.  The Design Team was challenged to alter or decorate it in some way.  This is what I created - a little birdie for "Time Flies"! I alcohol-inked the front of the clock and then used the new small leaf "movers and shapers" die to cut a bunch of "feathers" for

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-14676037464980041162011-08-24T11:31:00.000-05:002011-08-24T11:31:47.104-05:00

Since my birthday was Friday, my oldest daughter's on Saturday and my husband's yesterday, we decided to spend the weekend in NYC with Kim.  It was a quick but fun trip and it was great to get out of the Texas heat.  NY had severe thunderstorms Friday night but we enjoyed seeing rain again! Saturday was beautiful and in the low 80's.  This is a photo of the Manhattan skyline across the Hudson

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-4204393384003578572011-08-22T22:17:00.000-05:002011-08-22T22:17:35.446-05:00

Ta da - today is the full reveal of the newest Front Porch Kit - "Time to..."  Just look at this beautiful kit! It includes 10 printed papers; 6 coordinating pieces of Bazzill cardstock; a full package of Pink Paislee Mistables Alphas; Maya Road chipboard number set; cardstock clock hands; journal, frame and word diecuts; Basic Grey stitched brads; embroidery floss and thread cards; crocheted

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-24676642652039485992011-08-21T12:05:00.001-05:002011-08-21T12:05:00.209-05:00

Tomorrow will be the full reveal of the "Time To..." Front Porch Kit.  So here are two final peeks. And a snippet of another project I created.  You'll never guess this one! Check out the website here to order online or call The Little Blue House to get yours delivered soon to your very own front porch!

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-70461125985790454092011-08-20T11:52:00.001-05:002011-08-20T11:52:00.820-05:00

This month's kit is titled "Time to..." Yes, that's a little clock that everyone will receive in the kit!  Just wait to see what the Design Team did with theirs.  So many ideas, so little time (LOL). Here's a sneak peek of one of my projects for this kit. Bet you can't guess what it might be. Come back tomorrow for yet another sneak.

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-11903766083484597122011-08-19T10:00:00.002-05:002011-08-19T10:00:01.955-05:00

Here's another teaser for you.  You won't believe how much is in this kit!  fibers and buttons and papers!  Don't miss out - order yours now online or call LBH! The full reveal will be Monday, August 22, with delivery expected around August 29.

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-33497666504435340122011-08-18T09:00:00.005-05:002011-08-18T11:50:27.037-05:00

for another Front Porch Kit that is!  Want to see some sneak peeks?  I thought so!  This kit is as fabulous as previous ones - they keep getting better! Look at these gorgeous colors!  I spy some letters and numbers too.  And check out that cute crocheted embellishment.  What's that in the top photo on the right? Stay tuned for more sneaks the rest of the week.  Due to technical issues on our

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-28767177505726260812011-08-17T22:01:00.000-05:002011-08-17T22:01:06.224-05:00

It's been a long time since I've worked with beeswax and last week I had a chance to break it out again to play a bit.  I love working with beeswax - smells wonderful too. I've been wanting to do a small collage of this photo of myself and my best friend (almost since birth) when we were about five years old.  Her father managed a summer lodge on the top of the mountain and their family stayed

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-51338854481664625872011-08-16T00:29:00.000-05:002011-08-16T00:29:06.959-05:00

Congratulations to Betty for winning my "100 Followers Giveaway!"  I put all the commenters' names in a hat (well, really a box) and drew Betty's name!  Please contact me by e-mail with your information and I will get this to you asap. (You can click on my profile and then click on my e-mail.) Thanks to everyone who took the time to make lovely comments this past week. I love getting feedback

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-21146557785934572432011-08-15T10:16:00.000-05:002011-08-15T10:16:01.202-05:00

Another journal page using paint dabbers, stamps, mists and black and white journaling pens. I hand-drew the birdcage and used my new bird stamps from convention about a month ago. It seems like I'm drawn to this color combo!  

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-49325851553404695612011-08-14T12:43:00.000-05:002011-08-14T12:43:48.034-05:00

This week just got away from me so I apologize for just getting around to posting the giveaway prize.  One lucky commenter will receive:  a package of two Prima iron-onsa clear Hearts-a-Flutter stamp setBasic Grey chipboard luggage tag album to altera package for layering 10 cardsand many assorted napkins for your altered art Deadline for comments will be August 15 (only a few more days). Please

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-54885700914963469982011-08-11T19:57:00.000-05:002011-08-11T19:57:10.684-05:00

We're in our second round of summer classes at The Little Blue House and this is one of the classes I designed.  It's a travel book and memento box.  The book fits inside the box (an old cigar box) but can also be separate so the box can hold treasures from a special trip.  The base of the book is made from envelopes and there's lots of stamping and several techniques involved.  If you are local

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-24783812406387182222011-08-10T17:14:00.001-05:002011-08-10T17:14:01.223-05:00

I've been art journaling this week and have several pages in various stages but only this one completed to share.   To begin, I glued several different pieces of ephemera to the gessoed base page.  Then I started adding paints, inks, stamps and doodling.  The journaling refers to the Game On Diet I'm doing right now - I needed to write myself some encouraging words! Good news is - I lost 3.5

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-88834007212507534362011-08-10T11:30:00.001-05:002011-08-10T11:32:20.343-05:00

Yippee! Can you believe it - my little ole blog now has 100 followers! When I first started this a few years ago, I had my doubts that anyone would visit my blog. I figured my family would look at it occasionally, but it was mainly for me - to document my art journey.  And then something wonderful happened - people started finding me and gradually I've gained 100 loyal followers!  I feel truly

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-66394672251556376422011-08-05T21:20:00.000-05:002011-08-05T21:20:10.091-05:00

In the never-ending search for the perfect storage solutions for supplies, I think I have at last found a solution for my Distress Inks and blending foams! Originally I bought the Tim Holtz metal Distress Ink storage case, but it only holds 24 ink pads.  I now have all 36 colors and I wanted them all in one place, so I had to find something else.  I finally found this, which I am very happy with.

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-20963603832399162892011-08-03T18:00:00.000-05:002011-08-03T18:00:01.705-05:00

I recently signed up for Christy Tomlinson's online art journaling workshop, "She Has 3 Hearts", and have worked my way through all the videos.  It has been very inspiring and motivating.  Since I've been off for a few days and have been trying to keep cool (110 today!), I've been playing in my art journal. This first page is done with acrylic paints (regular craft, heavy-bodied, and fluid) on a

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-13300444925488616102011-08-01T16:58:00.000-05:002011-08-01T16:58:19.655-05:00

It's 106 here today (30+ consecutive days of over 100 and no relief in sight) so I've stayed in my art room with the AC full blast! Have scraps? I certainly do and I decided today to put some to good use.  I cut, punched and stamped until I had a full dozen!  You can never have enough blank cards ready to go when you need them. Here's the result: The only problem?  I still have tons more!

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-30091118696911746302011-07-31T14:11:00.000-05:002011-07-31T14:11:53.255-05:00

It's been awhile since I've done any art journaling. It's crazy that we let ourselves get too busy to do what we really want to do! I signed up last week for Christy Tomlinson's online 3Hearts Workshop and am getting inspired again to journal.  We are also working on funky art journals in the Blue House Art Group so I have double motivation to do this.  I made this page in stages.  The background

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-77267096235190559722011-07-29T14:21:00.000-05:002011-07-29T14:21:55.745-05:00

I'm four days into a new diet/habit-changing plan.  It all started when Tracy (owner of the LBH) and her family heard about this new plan and decided to take it on.  One of the premises is that competition helps, so you form teams (even one-on-one) to help you stay focused for the month-long diet.  Tracy determined that she would do better if those of us at the LBH also joined her, so, after much

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-27692632564717648012011-07-26T20:06:00.001-05:002011-07-26T20:07:07.697-05:00

Warning: Lots of photos! This is a little scrapbook (literally, as I made it with all the scraps left over from one of the Front Porch Kits!).  The prototype for this was a Scrapstasher's project at the Little Blue House a few months ago.  The book is 6"x6" and the basic structure uses a 6"x12" piece of cardstock for each page.  In this book I used 6 pages and a front and back 6" square cover.

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-14149129123297276862011-07-24T21:32:00.001-05:002011-07-24T21:33:10.618-05:00

Here are a few more fun small projects we made at the Artful Gathering last week.  It's always fun to see what little make-and-takes everyone brings to share. simple layered card paper-piecing card made from my leftover scraps tag with real seed packet back of tag This was a "corsage" we made and wore all weekend using a small children's garden glove, silk flowers and ribbons, and

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-83280125550944293502011-07-23T19:44:00.000-05:002011-07-23T19:44:15.550-05:00

Do you love Halloween?  Would you like to get away for the weekend, immerse yourself in four delightful Halloween projects and learn some new techniques?  Then this is the event for you. Black Velvet HalloweenOctober 1 and 2, 2011Artful Gatherings StudioMcGregor, TX Complete information on www.blackvelvethalloween.blogspot.com You will make FOUR projects!  First up is the "Beware" Halloween

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-9290201708198248792011-07-22T19:43:00.000-05:002011-07-22T19:43:42.904-05:00

I returned home from the Artful Gathering last Sunday and left again on Monday morning for our LBH (Little Blue House) Gals retreat!  The one good thing about doing back-to-back retreats is you don't have to do much unpacking/repacking.  I just added to the pile... This retreat was much smaller - only Tracy (store owner), Elaine (other instructor) and myself were there the entire time. We were

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-1430942353054760442011-07-21T22:00:00.011-05:002011-07-21T22:00:01.719-05:00

Two posts in one day - wow! But there's so much to share after the retreat. The big book project during this year's Artful Gathering was this gorgeous chunky garden book. I finished mine during the retreat but needed to add a few more finishing touches when I got home.  This book was a collaborative effort - six artists designed and created the prototype for one page spread each.  We used 7

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-7664295175649184602011-07-21T13:14:00.000-05:002011-07-21T13:14:23.184-05:00

Here are more of the "skinny" flower pages we swapped at my last retreat (the Artful Gathering). poppy by Dee with pretty punched birder and a tiny 3D bee Sue D's orchids zinnias by Dawn - love how she signed on the stem Julie's peony - from her yard more zinnias from Claudia Linda F's calla lily - love the banner and tissue tape a photo of Jean's rose in her yard dahlia

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-55825187585184709102011-07-17T23:47:00.001-05:002011-07-17T23:50:06.970-05:00

I'm home from retreat and what fun we had! This is an annual gathering for an online group of about 45 women - we had 22 attending from all over the country this year.  Each year we have a theme and do an involved book project with that theme. Lots of members also bring make-n-take projects for us to do and we also have a swap. This year we made 3 x 5.5-inch flower-themed "skinny pages" to share

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-84766602813349473022011-07-13T20:57:00.000-05:002011-07-13T20:57:45.904-05:00

I have been a member of a small online group for many years and for about the last five, we have been gathering annually for a retreat in Texas. Lucky me that I live not too far from the venue so I've been able to attend every year.  This year 24 gals are getting together! The retreat starts tomorrow and I'm busy gathering supplies and packing. This retreat is a little different than most - we

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-60650912626873286522011-07-10T23:35:00.001-05:002011-07-10T23:36:05.540-05:00

Remember these two cards I recently created with the June Front Porch Kit (One Sunny Day)?   Both the flower and the butterfly were made with the glassine bags which were used in the kit to package the exclusive Front Porch Kutz.  I love to use unusual supplies in unique ways and this glassine made gorgeous embellishments. I have a complete tutorial including lots of photos on the Front

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-68249861010282877032011-07-06T09:00:00.001-05:002011-07-06T09:00:11.494-05:00

Tonight on Ustream, Lolly will be sharing this fabulous project she made with this month's Front Porch Kit (One Sunny Day).  Join in the fun here at 8:30 pm CST and learn how to make those darling flowers! Hope to "see" you there!

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-74674010075639156162011-07-03T00:07:00.002-05:002011-07-03T00:10:22.897-05:00

No, I haven't totally lost it.  But I wanted to share a new intimate teaching venue that I am so excited to be a part of. Black Velvet Halloween will be held on Oct. 1 and 2,  2011, in McGregor, Texas (near Waco and Crawford) in the home studio of a good friend.  This will be limited to 20 students and four awesome classes will be taught.  The fee includes all four classes, lunches for both

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-18466433695767857292011-07-02T00:50:00.000-05:002011-07-02T00:50:39.672-05:00

Practical Scrappers featured our Front Porch Kit, One Sunny Day, on their Thursday post here.  Check it out and have a chance to win a free kit by becoming a follower of their blog as well as the FPK blog.  I love the projects that they made with the kit - additional inspiration for anyone who has bought the kit and it's always fun to see what others do with the same supplies!

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-60534535282520773572011-06-30T11:00:00.001-05:002011-06-30T11:00:02.682-05:00

It's been a long time since I made a card!  What with current teaching and designing commitments, I have had very little time for personal arting.  My mother loves to receive mail, especially my handmade cards, so I decided to make it a top priority to get one made for her for July 4th. This card was relatively quick and simple as I used alot of odds and ends from previous projects.  The navy

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-41371464404036696192011-06-29T12:10:00.001-05:002011-06-29T14:39:26.443-05:00

Back in early June when the Great American Scrapbook Convention was in town, I helped Vicki Chrisman with Crafty Secrets teach a workshop.  One of the projects was altering a composition book with patterned papers from their new Vintage Images CD.    This CD is awesome - it works with PCs or Macs and contains 72 color paper patterns, 24 transparent overlays that can be printed as is or on colored

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-71022116447487839372011-06-28T16:22:00.000-05:002011-06-28T16:22:45.605-05:00

Blogging has certainly taken the back burner the last few weeks as I've been busy with family matters. First, two of our daughters were in town for Sara's graduation ceremony (see last post) and then most of this week we were in Austin to help my husband's 86-year-old widowed aunt pack and hold a garage sale before her move to Colorado.  Downsizing after 15 years in the same house and divesting

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-67466832161134467942011-06-20T21:13:00.001-05:002011-06-20T21:15:26.324-05:00

It's been a crazy, busy week here and this is one of the reasons.  Our youngest daughter, Sara, just received her SW wings at a graduation celebration on Friday that was also Southwest's 40th Anniversary.  She follows in her sister's footsteps who has been a SW flight attendant for nine years and they will both be based in Chicago!  Kelly came in town to present Sara her wings.  They are so cute

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-72638230385864125292011-06-12T22:22:00.000-05:002011-06-12T22:22:31.742-05:00

I wanted to share yet another project I made with the recent Front Porch Kit.   Because my children are all grown and none live locally, I don't have many family photos except from Christmas and weddings and I wasn't sure if they would coordinate with the bright colors and patterns in this kit. But I think it worked out well. I created this star book which (closed) measures 4" tall and 6" wide.  

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-46732773583713021692011-06-11T10:00:00.002-05:002011-06-15T17:43:56.934-05:00

I made this canvas pocket using two of the canvas pennants from the Front Porch Kit.  Here is the tutorial to make your own.Floral Canvas Pocket Supplies from the kit:2 Maya Road canvas bannersStella Rose “Happy  Bouquet” paper - strip approx. 1 1/2” x 5”denim fabric - 1/2” x 10”turquoise print fabric - 1” x 8”; 1/4” x 6”yellow and orange print fabrics - 1/4” x 6” eachrust rick rack - 14”

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-4467246650398407992011-06-10T10:00:00.000-05:002011-06-10T10:00:01.136-05:00

I created two additional cards with the kit supplies - these were for the Inspiration Gallery online and the instructions were not included on the CD in the kit. I used several of the coordinating patterned papers from the kit for this card, stamping one of my favorite friendship sentiments on the yellow paper.  I used the wired, navy blue burlapy (is that a word?) trim across the middle.  I

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-63243500166965138742011-06-09T13:00:00.000-05:002011-06-09T13:00:50.319-05:00

I created these two cards as feature samples for this month's "One Sunny Day" kit.  The step-by-step tutorial for each of these is included on the CD enclosed with each kit.  (If you haven't ordered yours yet, go to www.frontporchkits.com to see the kit contents and the fabulous gallery of projects and order before they are gone!)  Both projects were created solely with items in the kit. The

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-71421017314112732802011-06-06T22:32:00.000-05:002011-06-06T22:32:37.413-05:00

Front Porch Kits now has it's own blog! You can check it out here and become a follower so you don't miss out on any creative fun! And I just realized in the commotion of this weekend, I forgot to post the full kit reveal. So, drumroll, here it is - One Sunny Day.  The colors and textures are delicious!  Be sure to wander over to either the blog (above) or the website (www.frontporchkits.com) to

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-63213901193079304932011-06-05T22:38:00.000-05:002011-06-05T22:38:57.595-05:00

The convention has come and gone and I'm totally wiped out. I spent three long days there working both the Little Blue House booth and helping in the Crafty Secrets booth. We (or I should say Tracy's woodworking master of a hubbie) recreated the LBH front porch as our backdrop.  We even had an old screen door to display the contents of this month's Front Porch Kit  and a six-pane window that is

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-17276175626890228342011-06-04T00:08:00.000-05:002011-06-04T00:08:36.369-05:00

The Great American Scrapbook Convention is here in town this weekend and I've been running for days!  The Little Blue House has a booth there and we prepared for almost 500 make-and-takes! I spent all day yesterday teaching "build-a-flowers" and helping man the booth and all day today helping out in the Crafty Secrets booth (love that store - fantastic products and fantastic people).  It was

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-46068986518336071882011-06-03T09:00:00.001-05:002011-06-03T09:00:06.908-05:00

Order the newest Front Porch Kit now!  They won't last, I'm sure.  They can be purchased online at www.frontporchkits.com or come by The Little Blue House to get yours today.  And don't forget to tune in tonight at 8:30 pm CST for the latest Friday Night Live.  We'll be showing the kit products and doing a few projects, one of which is the Build-a-Flower.  (The template is included in this

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-81671364855903375682011-06-02T08:00:00.001-05:002011-06-02T08:00:10.658-05:00

Check out the newest Front Porch Kit "One Sunny Day" at www.frontporchkits.com which is now LIVE on the website! You can now order it there or, if you are at the Great American Scrapbook Convention in Arlington, TX, this weekend, we will have kits there to purchase.  Thursday (today) through Saturday come drop by our front porch (Booth #1111) on the back wall of the convention center to see all

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-24148513123095958832011-06-01T10:00:00.001-05:002011-06-01T10:00:20.967-05:00

Only one more day til the Thursday full reveal of our newest Front Porch Kit "One Sunny Day."  Pre-orders are being taken now online at www.frontporchkits.com or by phone or in person at The Little Blue House at 817-431-7930.  Here are a few more peek at the awesome goodies included in this kit.  Love those polka dots! Lots of teal and yellow this month.  Here is a peek at one of my projects

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-79254942752669610202011-05-31T09:00:00.003-05:002011-05-31T09:00:12.418-05:00

Just two more days!  Here are a few more sneak peeks of the kit to whet your appetite!  Lots of color and textures in this kit. And here's a sneak peek of one of the projects I designed for this kit. This kit will be available for pre-order on Wed. June 1 on the website (www.frontporchkit.com).  The full reveal of everything included in the kit will be on Thursday June 2.  Want a chance

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-901166018559214422011-05-30T09:00:00.002-05:002011-05-30T12:41:24.097-05:00

The June Front Porch Kit will be officially revealed on June 3 on Friday Night Live at The Little Blue House.  Sneak peeks and pre-ordering information will be on the website soon.  In the meantime, how about a few little peeks here?! Introducing......... ONE SUNNY DAY June 2011 Front Porch Kit Lots of fun, summery colors. What could that bit of yellow be? Teal, of course.  And lots of yummy

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-36741409900869361712011-05-28T12:44:00.001-05:002011-05-28T12:44:31.745-05:00

A close friend and I decided to have an ATC swap.  The theme was "friendship" of course. I used this Hampton Arts stamp of three beautiful vintage ladies and a Morningstar sentiment stamp that seemed to fit the image perfectly.  For the background I used light turquoise and cream acrylic paints. I put a puddle of each on my craft mat and then swiped it on the white cardstock base with an old

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-36034261690916904232011-05-25T16:00:00.001-05:002011-05-25T16:00:04.544-05:00

Join us this Thursday, Friday and Saturday for a special introduction to a fabulous NEW artistic adventure! SMASH is an exciting new program from K&Company that takes scrapbooking back to its roots. Simplistic, on-the-fly, and with no rules and no special crafting ability needed, you can Smash your everyday life between the pages of our contemporary-style Smash Books.   An ultra-convenient combo

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-75221813837127127492011-05-24T14:25:00.000-05:002011-05-24T14:25:01.551-05:00

While surfing blogs today, I found a great idea on an old post at http://www.secretpieshoppe.blogspot.com/2010/02/green-craft-envelopes-made-with.html.  She used old magazine pages to create regular, A2 envelopes.  I've been in the middle of sorting and getting rid of lots of old magazines, so I thought this was particularly timely! First you need to print out the envelope template on cardstock

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-90689553589487164052011-05-23T19:22:00.000-05:002011-05-23T19:22:27.222-05:00

I also designed another explosion box for our current class feature.  This one can be used for birthdays or any congratulatory celebration.  I used the new Soiree paper line from Pink Paislee and love the fresh, summery colors - just perfect for celebrating! This is the closed box. It is approximately four inches square. When you lift up the cover, the box explodes into many layers.  Photos,

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797336577219604199.post-39283076516047895312011-05-22T20:08:00.000-05:002011-05-22T20:08:26.994-05:00

Our Open House was very successful, even though we had heavy rains and sporadic hail on Friday. The Little Blue House looked so cheerful and pretty with all the summer, party and patriotic class projects displayed! This is the patriotic "American Pride"star book I designed.  It was so much fun to make! I personalized it by using military photos of my father, my father-in-law, two of my husband's

Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05578903823909805669noreply@blogger.com5