Pallenge No. 17 - Embossing Challenge

The next challenge is to use dry embossing on your project! There have been some really beautifully embossed cards posted to blogs lately so thought it might be a good challenge. You can use a PTI Impression plate or a Cuttlebug embossing folder or emboss by hand using a stencil. Whichever method you choose, so long as it's EMBOSSED! I will post my entry soon. Have fun with it!

Hi Pals!

I'm writing to say that I've decided to remove myself from our group. I'm going to be taking a break from blogging for awhile. I'm fine, just need to take a break. I wanted to let you know so you can fill my spot! I'm sure there are lots of folks out there who would love to belong to the group (I've noticed a lot of new people on the PTI forum lately ;)

I'll still be visiting the PTI forum from time to time, so you'll see me around there :)

Diane

Pallenge #16- Inspiration Photo

Hello, and welcome the latest Papertrey Pals challenge!
I'm Kay, one of the newest members of the group, and this is my first time to host the challenge, so don't beat me up too bad if something is a little wonky.
Let's kick this off with an inspiration photo:

We would love for you to play along with our challenge; after all you're going to need something to do while you wait on your Papertrey Ink order to arrive, right? Perhaps this will inspire you in some way.
Here is my sample for the challenge:

Thanks!

Pallenge #15 Color Challenge

Hello Pals! I'm a day late (and probably a dollar short lol!) posting this challenge, but better late than never, right? We're going to do a color challenge this time. I was perusing another companies website, and I saw this color combo and thought it was really pretty. I matched it up as closely as possible to Papertrey colors, and this is what I came up with:



I don't think the swatches above look as pretty as the actual papers, which you'll see when you pull these 4 colors and place then side by side. They're really quite beautiful together!

If you don't have one of these colors feel free to substitute something else that's close.

I don't have my card made yet, I'll post it when I do! Have fun with this one, I can't wait to see what you come up with!

Diane

Birthday Time!

Happy Birthday Nadine!

Monica's B-day

Hope your day was fabulous Monica!

August 22 PALlenge! - Back to School Time!

Well, it won't be long before all the kiddies are heading back to school (some, like my students, are already IN school! Eep!)... and when I think of school, I think of primary colors (blue, red, green).

So, it only seems fitting that this PALlenge deals with that topic, doesn't it? :)

Here's the PALlenge:

1. You can make a card, altered work, scrapbook layout, whatever... but you may only use PRIMARY colors. And by that, I mean VERY primary. You need to use RED (but scarlet, crimson, or burgundy won't do). You need to use BLUE (but navy, sky blue, or cobalt isn't going to work) and you need to use GREEN (but hunter, lime, or sage isn't going to cut it!). Of course the definition of "PRIMARY" is subjective... but here are some samples of what I'm thinking:

Primary Blue

Primary Red

Primary Green

2. You may use some white and a little black. Neither should be the dominant color.
3. Having a "Back to School" theme is not necessary. :)

Have fun showing your TRUE colors!! :)

You can use the inlinkz feature below to showcase your project.

Thanks for playing!

Birthday Wishes

Pallenge #13

Oooh! I get Pallenge #13. Thirteen is a VERY lucky number. So this challenge is about digging out those stamps you haven't used. As in EVER used. Maybe you have an entire stamp set that you could never find the "just right" occasion for. Or maybe you have a stamp set that contains that ONE stamp that you have never used, never inked, it just seemed to confound you. Now is the time to dig that stamp out and USE it. :)

I chose to use Birds of a Feather. I bought it loving the bird images. Just perfect I thought! They are perfect, but I never use birds on my cards or layouts! So here is my example:



Get out those never or rarely used stamps and ink them up! Post a link to your blog in Mister Linky below!

Birthday Wishes for Liz M.

May your birthday

be a joyful celebration

of all that you are

and all you dream to be.

Happy Birthday Liz!

Pallenge #12 Christmas in (almost) July

Hello there PALs! This challenge is all about Christmas. I know, you are wondering, why are we thinking about Christmas when it is summer??? Many of us send out tons of homemade cards and goodies and the sooner we start thinking about it the sooner we will be finished. So, my challenge to you is to make a project with Christmas in mind. It could be a Christmas card, a gift you plan to make, etc.

Pallenge #11 - Red, White and Blue & Stars

The colors of the American and Dutch flag are red, white and blue. I personally like that color combo a lot. These colors and the upcoming national American holiday 4th of July have inspired me for this challenge.

I challenge you to make a card, layout or any other project using red, white and blue. And.....I would like to see star(s)!


Photo: Better Homes and Gardens



Enjoy the challenge, Pals!

Birthday Wishes

wishing you the best

on your birthday,

and every happiness

in the year ahead.

-Papertrey Ink

Happy Birthday Mandy

Color Challenge

Sorry this is late everyone, I kept thinking I didn't host until next week so I haven't even had a chance to make a card for this challenge. I sincerely apologize and hope you can forgive me. I decided to do a color challenge since it should be pretty easy. My color choices came from this inspiration picture:

So your challenge is to use Enchanted Evening, Hawaiian Shores, Aqua Mist & White to create your project. Can't wait to see what you come up with!

Pallenge #9 - Use your Patterned Paper!

Are you like me? A patterned paper hoarder? Well this week's challenge is to use it. Stop keeping it stashed away in some drawer and only taking it out to drool over. I want you to make a card, or do a project that involves cutting into it.  Remember after the first cut it doesn't hurt so bad. And once you have that card or project completed you'll be glad. Trust me. You won't regret it. Well maybe a little bit but at least this way you have the perfect excuse to buy more. {Insert evil chuckle here}
Here's a sample of what I did to give you some ideas:

See it's not that hard. Remember first cut is the hardest but after that you'll be proud of yourself. Now I can't wait to see what you'll come up with! BTW-I know this isn't really a challenge for Ingrid who already does amazing things with her patterned paper and seems to have no problem using it. Just please have mercy on the rest of us.

You can show us what you did by posting a link on Mr. Linky:

There's still time...

to enter your pallenge card in the current Summer themed Papertrey Pals Pallenge! I'd love to see what you come up with! All the details are here.

Diane

Pallenge #8 - Wishing You Sunshine!

Hello everyone, this is Diane J., and it's my turn to present our Papertrey Pals Pallenge! I had a couple of ideas in mind, but since we've been having a hot, summery weekend here in PA, I decided to go with a summer themed challenge!!

Here's the challenge. Create a card or other project with a summer theme. Since I only joined PTI this past October, I don't have any specific summer themed PTI stamps (other than flowers and butterflies), so I had to think outside the box a bit for this one. You can do the same, OR, if you wish, just make something with summer colors. That should give you enough leeway to give this a go :)

So, once again, either:

1. Make a summer themed card or project OR
2. Make a card or project using bright, summery colors

Easy enough? I hope so. you can see the card I made below, perhaps something in it will spark an idea for you. Main thing is, HAVE FUN!


Be sure to link your post below on Mr. Linky.

Happy Birthday, Kerry!

Wishing you the best
on your birthday,
and every happiness
in the year ahead.

~Papertrey Ink~

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TED!!!

Hope this day

is as special

as you are.

      -Papertrey Ink

Pallenge number 7 and a Happy Birthday Song

Over the last week during the PTI April release there was a lot of talk about making cards or projects that had a masculine theme. Nicole's post HERE shows how the DT gives that something special to a masculine project. My challenge is for us to make a masculine project, it can be a card, a scrapbook page or even a game for a little boy like Erin did...... the point is to have fun and become more comfortable with making something more masculine. I realize that Ted is a PRO in this department ....... he understand that you do not step over the ribbon or lace line making a card for a guy!! Now if you want to take it to the next level, on Betsey's post HERE she shows how to take the basic card and then with a few different elements you can customize it for either male or female. I have a hard time with masculine cards ..... so now it is time for me to put on my thinking cap. I hope you will have time to join me for this challenge. Have a great week!!!



And now how about a Happy Birthday to Ted and Kerry ~~~

Pallenge No. 6 - Springtime Flowers Challenge

Hi Pals! :) After a long and unusually cold winter (even here in Florida, it snowed briefly), spring has finally arrived! I thought it might be fun for us all to officially welcome the start of spring with cards featuring beautiful flowers.

Here are the Details:

You can use flowers in any form. You can use a fabric flower, a felt flower, a stamped flower, a dried flower, a hand-drawn doodle flower, etc. You can even just use the word "flower" and not an actual flower image. Your imagination is the limit!

BONUS Side Challenge: 

If you would like an additional side challenge, you could also make it into a shaped card, any shape except for a square or rectangle. PTI has some great templates for shaped cards or you could also just trace any household object and then cut it out.

Can't wait to see how you welcome spring! 

And by the way, Happy Easter everyone! Hope you have a great one with your family and friends.

Monica

A Pal Birthday Celebration

Happy Birthday Sue Ann!!

May your birthday
be a joyful celebration 
of all that you are
and all you dream to be.
                  -Papertrey Ink

Papertrey Pallenge #5

It's that time again! Time for another Pallenge! For Pallenge number 5, I'm challenging you to do a one layer card. You may have one embellishment if you wish.


Here's my inspiration card. I used Dot Spot in Orange Zest and Raspberry Fizz. (doesn't that make you want summer?) I stamped the Fillable Frame #1 in Raspberry Fizz onto Orange Zest cardstock and stamped the sentiment in True Black. I also added some Raspberry Fizz rhinestones for a little bling!




I hope you enjoy the challenge! I can't wait to see what you create. You have until the next Pallenge goes live on Sunday April 4th. Anyone is allowed to play, just make sure to leave a link so we can give you some love!


Liz M.

Papertrey Pals Challenge #4

Hi fellow Pals! Sorry I've been MIA - I've just been so busy, no time to craft!

So my challenge is to use this sketch to create a card. That's it, easy peasy!

I knew I wouldn't have time to create a sample card, so I based my sketch on an existing card I created (for the PTI 3rd anniversary celebration):

I can't wait to see what you create with this sketch!

~ Jessica

Past Project Pallenge

Hi all! It's time for some more Pallenge Fun. Today, I am going to ask that everyone take a journey back in time to the beginning of your papercrafting days. I thought it might be challenging to find a very early project - card, scrapbook page, altered item - and revisit it. What would you do differently now that you have progressed beyond the basics?

Here is an example of one of my very first cards. . . I had just learned the joy of watercolor pencils & blender pens.

Alright, now that you have had a good, gut grabbing laugh

it's back to business! LOL

For this challenge, make over your project! If you don't have the same image you can use a substitute but try to keep some consistancy with the color scheme, layout, technique etc. And, if you don't have an example you can always make over mine :)

I look forward to seeing all the before and after pics. ~ MamaReebs

Pallenge No. 2 - a "ValenPallenge" by Liz D. in MO.

Well, it's time for the next Pal challenge or Pallenge as Ted called it! I can't believe 2 weeks have gone by already.

On to the nitty gritty of my challenge to you. . . it seems kind of a given that this challenge should be something related to Valentines day. . . so I am issuing this "ValenPallenge" to you!!! Create something for Valentines day and use stitching of some type on it. You can decide what project you want to do, it can be a card, scrapbook page, gift, whatever, the sky's the limit. BUT, you must have stitching on it somewhere. It can be done with a sewing machine, by hand, or faux stitching where you just simply draw stitch lines on your project! Easy peasy, no sweat, just have fun!!!

Here's the rules:(if you want to call them that)(copied from Ted's post!)

1. You need to create the project by the day before the next PALLENGE (in this case, it's Saturday, February 20 ).
2. You need to post a photo of your project on your personal blog. Optionally, you can include materials and how you created it (and/or were inspired by something).
3. You then will post a COMMENT to this thread with a link to the post that you created in #2 above.

May Cupid be with you and guide you during this ValenPallenge!
Liz D. in MO

Updated button/banner

Hi guys, I'm so sorry this took so long to get up. I've been having router issues that are (hopefully) fixed. I've been checking in mostly on my iPhone for the last week! Anyway, here's my second attempt at the button, and a banner as well. Again, I appreciate any comments/suggestions!
For those who asked, I used Corel Paint Shop to create the images, with a font I downloaded for free (Marcelle Script and Marcelle Swishes). I

Birthday Post

Hi all!  Thought I would put up a quick post about Birthdays.  I will be keeping track of them and will send out an email reminder to everyone (minus the lucky person) a week before the date.  On the actual day, I will post a Happy Birthday message where anyone that has made a card can post the link in the comments.  I have been looking for an image to use when we have a Birthday.  Here is what I have come up with.

Let me know what you think of this image and if you feel that a week is enough of a reminder.
Have a great night ~ MamaReebs

Possible button/banner theme

Hey pals! I thought I'd post this here, for all of us to see. I can always delete this post later if you want.

Anway, I was thinking of some ideas/themes for the banner/button, and was looking at all the awesome PTI stamp sets for inspiration. I was set on using Forest Friends, but then hit on All-Star Team, and came up with this as a draft button:

The banner would be in a similar theme, but I wanted to see what you all think before I work on a banner. I tried playing with some colours, but they all looked too "cartoon-y."

Anyway, if you want to leave your comment on the post, I'd love to hear what you think!

PALLENGE #1 - by Ted :)

Well, it's our VERY first PALLENGE (okay, I'm goofy!)...that's "PAL" + "challenge", but I'm sure you got that.  ;)

Anyway, I'm honored to be the first PALLENGER to start us off on what hopes to be a great year of getting to know each other and challenging each other. :)

Here's your first PALLENGE...

You are to create a project out of paper (it can be a card, box, layout, whatever) that somehow has the following letters incorporated in it:

P

A

L

That's right! For our first PALLENGE (I think I'll notify Webster of that word.), you need to somehow have P A L in your project.

Now... HOW you do it, you can be creative:

Perhaps your greeting card has three primary colors: (P)lum, (A)qua Mist, and (L)emon tart... *grin*

Or maybe you have a layout of your daughter and her best friend and the title is "Best of PALs!"

Or maybe you made a cube box with the letters "P A L S" all around the sides... and it's a gift box?

Go crazy and be original and just have lots of fun! :)

Here are the "rules" (if you want to call them that).

1. You need to create the project by the day before the next PALLENGE (in this case, it's Saturday, February 6).
2. You need to post a photo of your project on your personal blog. Optionally, you can include materials and how you created it (and/or were inspired by something).
3. You then will post a COMMENT to this thread with a link to the post that you created in #2 above.

If you have any questions, don't hesitate to leave a comment and I'll answer them best I can! :)

Have fun!

Aloha my fellow PALs!

I've started and stopped this post 3 times already because Im a dweeb.  So here it goes again!

My name is Nadine (Wahinelei on the forum) and I live on the island of Oahu, Hawaii.  I was born here, am part-Hawaiian but raised as an Army brat.  My family has been stationed in Germany (twice actually, Mannheim & Giessen) and California (Fort Ord).  My dad decided to retire here in Hawaii and I've been here ever since.  I was not made for the military life - just could not stand moving all the time!  I am very content to be where Im at and don't plan on leaving.

My husband passed away from cancer over two years ago. While we had time to prepare it was still too soon.  Our last year together was very sad but it made me realize just how strong and deep our love was.  I still miss him very much but I have my daily reminders of him in my children.  They each have qualities that are definitely their daddy's!  They make me smile every day.

What got you into papercrafting/stamping?
I started papercrafting because I really like paper! I love the feel of it, the different colors, the wide variety of patterns it comes in.  I like to fold it, stamp it, embellish it.  Discovering PTI and their beautiful papers was the first step in finding my creative self.  Nichole and the design team have helped me explore this side further.  I am so thankful that I found PTI!! Not only do they have quality products but they show you how to use it. And for free!  I see a trend now where people are charging a fee to download their tutorials. I just shake my head because with the internet and different online communities you can find it yourself without having to pay anything (ok, getting off my soapbox now).

Is there anybody who inspires you? If so, who?
There is not a single designer or fellow crafter that I can say I am most inspired by because I find inspiration daily from all the blogs I visit.  But I have to say the PTI team are my idols.  I aspire to be as creative and polished.

What is your favorite technique in papercrafting?
I don't have a favorite technique but I really enjoy trying new techniques.  Nothing makes me happier than when I see a tutorial, have all the supplies on hand, try it out, and actually complete it!  I have so many half completed projects laying around because Im missing some component or I run out of steam.

What do you hope to gain from joining the PALs?
New friends!  To be inspired, to be challenged, find support when I need it and be supportive to others.  Also a place I can go where others understand this crazy, obsessive addiction I have to PTI and anything PTI.  My IRL friends just don't understand why I prefer to be in my craft room than having morning tea with the other mommies.  But I know that here with my other PALs, you guys get it.  ;o)

A Warm Hello from the Sunshine State :)

Hi everybody!! I've really enjoyed reading through all the posts. It's fun to learn a little bit more about everyone. Here's a little bit about me.

I’ve been married for a year and a half to my husband, who is an economist. We got married on a riverboat, because we both feel at home on the water—my husband grew up in the Dalmatian Islands and Sydney and I grew up along the beaches of Florida’s east coast. If we are away from the water too long, we both get a little cranky, lol. I named my blog “Simply Sunshine” after my lifelong connection with Florida, the Sunshine State. I feel like no matter where I may go in life or where I may live, that Florida will always be my home. There is nothing more calming to me, then floating in a small boat down a Florida river with mangroves, pelicans and palm trees gliding past.

During the day, I work as a graphic designer at an architecture firm. The partners at my firm have a philosophy of architecture as art, and so they've designed some pretty cool and diverse buildings, everything from Gothic to Mediterranean to Modern. 


Is there anybody who inspires you? If so, who?

I’m really inspired by Nichole Heady and Kim Hughes. Their styles are really amazing and filled with emotion. Nichole has a really elegant simplicity to her cards. Everything she makes looks really sharp and clean and I really like that. Her recent “Through The Trees” cards were absolutely stunning and so soulful. I'm also really inspired by Kim Hughes. She has a playful yet meaningful spirit about her cards. They are so full of feeling, sincerity and sweetness. I just love everything she makes! Both of these designers have really inspired me to pay attention more closely to emotion in cards, and to try to portray feeling in what I make. Here are a few cards that have inspired me lately (from Kim, Nichole and other designers): By Your Side, Little One, Sweetheart, Feel Better Soon, Sunshine, Boat, Thank You, Joy, Occasions, Through the Trees

What got you into papercrafting/stamping?
I discovered papercrafts and stamps when I went into Joann’s craft store to buy a wedding album; I somehow walked out with stamps instead. :) Discovering stamps wasn’t an easy process though, lol. I remember my first moments walking down the stamping aisle; I was pretty overwhelmed!
Back then, stamping was filled with so many baffling mysteries. For instance:
Clear ink (why in the world would you want clear ink? Don’t you want the stamp to show up on your paper, lol?)

Embossing powders (how does that possibly work? Won’t that hairdryer thing just blow the powder away?)

Clear stamps (you're supposed to stick it to a block thingy, huh? Clear stamps confused me the most, lol.)

Dye ink vs. pigment ink? (Why are there different types of ink? One kind isn’t enough??)

I really didn’t have a clue! I think I stopped every poor soul who walked down the aisle and asked them for help. I was determined to figure out stamping because it was so fascinating! I think I’m kind of drawn to things that don’t make sense at first, because I’m so determined to find logic in everything. Looking back on those early days, I am amazed by how much I’ve learned! I really feel like I’ve come a long way and I’m kind of proud of myself for that. I probably owe a lot of that to PTI, because reading the blogs and forum, helped me understand stamping and crafting even more!

What is your favorite technique in papercrafting?

My favorite crafting technique is embossing. I can never tire of seeing that powder melt onto the card. It’s really mesmerizing for some reason, lol, and I love the effect. Just wish I could get rid of those annoying little flecks. They are quite persistent! My favorite crafting technique that I have no idea to do myself is sewing on cards. When I see beautiful patterns sewn onto cards, my jaw drops every time. I swear it’s like magic to me. I can’t imagine being able to do that myself one day, but hopefully will.

What do you hope to gain from joining the PALs?

I’m hoping to form some great friendships and also to grow as a cardmaker. It’s so wonderful to have a small community of people that we can all go to for inspiration, questions and advice.  

Hello from Minnesota!

I apologize for taking so long to post my intro. I didn't have a lot of time this weekend to be online.

I've been married to my amazing co-parent, Jon, since November of 2005. Our adorable three-year-old boy, Boo, keeps us very busy. We have a dog named Dora and two cats, Minerva and Bella. We live in a northwest suburb of Minneapolis. Most of the time I love living here. The Spring and the Fall are beautiful, and the abundance of lakes and lots of trees makes for tons of outdoor loveliness. This leaves the hot and muggy Summers and the frigid Winters that last six months of the year. :)

I work for a major manufacturer as a Sales Analyst for two large accounts. I actually work out of my house as my company does not have an office here. I have a love/hate relationship with working from home. My little boy does go to daycare, otherwise I'd never get anything done!

• What got you into papercrafting? I started scrapbooking after watching my sister make amazing albums for years and years. I loved scrapbooking, but I am painfully slow, and can take all day (from 9 am to midnight) to get four pages done. Cardmaking is much more my style. I still am really pokey, but cards come together so much faster!
  
• 
  

• Is there anybody who inspires you? If so, who? Oh wow, my list of blogs I visit is huge! Papertrey is my number one resource - both the DT and my fellow devotees.
  

• What is your favorite technique in papercrafting? I am still learning. My first love is cardstock, and I love clean and simple layouts.
  

• What do you hope to gain from joining the PALs? I am really looking forward to getting to know some of my fellow PTI fans better. All of you are an inspiration to me, and I really like to make new friends.
  

Hmm..Guess it's my turn!

Hello everyone! The name is Cindy. I've been married to my husband since 1996, and we have 2 children (nicknamed lil C, 6 years old, and lil D, 4 years old). We currently live in NM and are really enjoying it. I've been a stay at home wife/mom since 2001.

• What got you into papercrafting? I began scrapbooking in the late 90s but really began doing it in earnest after our daughter was born in 2004.
  

• Is there anybody who inspires you? If so, who? I find inspiration in lots of blogs, all different kinds of cardmakers/scrapbookers.
  

• What is your favorite technique in papercrafting? I like to experiment, but I love playing with ink. Ink, ink, ink.
  

• What do you hope to gain from joining the PALs? Ahhh...some consistency in my posting would be good wouldn't it? :)
  

• Anything else you want to say? Me? Say? I have nothing to say. You can't drag it from me. :)

Looking forward to the challenges!!

Hola from Espana!

Hi Pals! Tammy here and currently living in Rota, Spain. I am 35 and have been married to a wonderful man for the last 13 years. We have no traditional children (we prefer the four-legged variety) but if you visit my blog you will see our baby girl. We have lived in Spain for 3 ½ years and in August will be returning to the states. Unfortunately, the military will not let us know where we are going until April. All I know is that I will be within driving distance to Wal-Mart, Target, and crafting stores. I am a nurse and taught nursing for the last 5 years before moving but have not been able to work in that capacity while stationed here. Instead I teach EMT classes occasionally on the base and substitute teach at the high school. I am excited to get back to my profession, all the more money to spend on PTI products!

What got you into papercrafting?
I was invited to a DOTS (now known as CTMH) party in 1997 and fell in love with stamping. I made all of my Christmas cards that year (I remember they were on navy cardstock with gold embossing). I continued to papercraft until I went back to graduate school in 2000. I sold all of my supplies since I had no time between work and school to enjoy my hobby. When I moved to Spain in 2006 I became friends with a group of serious scrapbookers and a few stampers and the rest was history! As I began to “re”accumulate supplies my husband would say, “Didn’t you have one of these before?” Oh well…

Is there anybody who inspires you? If so, who?
Obviously Nichole and the PTI design team. However, PTI products are so fabulous that even those of us who are not at that level can create gorgeous works of art. I love to look at the blogs of fellow PTI addicts to gain everyday inspiration.

What is your favorite technique in papercrafting?
I love it all. Currently, I am learning to sew on my projects. I bought a Janome Sew Mini in November but only recently took it out of the box and started playing with it. My other current favorite is coloring with Copics. I am still a novice and hope to take a Copic class when I get back to the states.

What do you hope to gain from joining the PALs?
I am looking forward to building friendships, encouraging the Pals to move beyond their comfort zones, and gaining some constructive criticism to help me grow in this craft. Also, being committed to a group will ensure that I spend time creating instead of just accumulating. I think I like buying supplies as much as I like using them!

Anything else you want to say?
I am honored to be a part of this group and look forward to a fabulous year with all of you!

Hello from the country of tulips & windmills

Hi all! Ingrid here. I am 41 years old, and have been together with my boyfriend Eric (41) since August 1996. We have two beautiful girls, Fleur (9) and Sanne (7). We live in IJsselstein, a small town centrally located in the Netherlands. I work 3 days a week as a secretary with a small consultancy firm.

I have always been a crafty girl. I came across a Dutch magazine about scrapbooking in 2004. Since I always added tickets, postcards, maps, etc. to my photo albums I thought that scrapbooking would be THE hobby for me. However, I didn’t start until April 2006. I have been making cards since mid 2007. I like to create layouts and mini albums, but my heart lies with card making. I just love making cards. I started stamping in November 2009 shortly after I received my first PTI order. I have been serving on several DTs which is a wonderful experience. Besides, I have been fortunate to be published in Dutch scrapbook and card magazines as well as in some American magazines.

Of course I am inspired by the Papertrey Ink DT. I think their team is fabulous. But……there are many other scrapbookers and card makers that inspire me. I enjoy frequenting blogs as there are so many talented and inspiring people around the world.

One of my favorite techniques is sewing. I just love to sew on my projects as it adds a nice little touch to a card or layout. Since I started stamping I also rediscovered heat embossing. I have been having a heat gun and embossing powders for quite a long time, but hardly used it. Now that I am completely addicted to PTI I really like to use my stamps combined with heat embossing.

I am really excited about being one of the Pals. I think we have a wonderful group and I am really looking forward to getting to know you all, learn from you, and be inspired by you. I am also looking forward to our challenges. I love participating in challenges as it often makes you think ‘out of the box’ and to step out your comfort zone.

Well, that’s all for now. Feel free to ask me any questions if you would like to learn more about me.

How to schedule a post in Blogger

Hey PALs,

I just thought I'd create a small tutorial on how to schedule posts in Blogger so that you can create a post days before you want it posted and Blogger will post it WHEN you want. :)

(This is useful to create your challenge days before Sunday and have it post on Sunday!)

Hope you find it helpful...

Challenge Schedule

Here is the PALs Challenge Schedule for 2010.

Here are some guidelines:
1. The host(ess) will post the challenge on Sunday.
2. If the host(ess) is unable to post their challenge, they can ask to switch with another host(ess) and can edit the schedule accordingly (no need to contact me, since you all have authoring abilities) :)
3. The challenge type is left to the discretion of the host(ess).
4. Participating in any challenge is optional (but encouraged!).
5. Participants will post a link to their challenge in their comment.
6. Have fun with these...they shouldn't be WORK... just let us grow and try new things! :) If you don't have the money to buy any supplies suggested, no worries... do your best. :)

January, 2010
24 - Ted

February, 2010
7 - Liz D.
21 - Rebecca

March, 2010
7 - Jessica
21 - Liz M.

April, 2010
4 - Monica
18 - Sue Ann

May, 2010
2 - Diane
16 - Nadine
30 - Mandy

June, 2010
13 - Ingrid
27 - Tammy

July, 2010
11 - Kerry
25 - Cindy

August, 2010
8 - Dee
22 - Ted

September, 2010
5 - Diane
19 - Kay

October, 2010
3 - Jessica
17 - Liz M.
31 - Monica

November, 2010
14 - Sue Ann
28 - Diane

December, 2010
12 - Nadine
26 - Mandy

Hello from Sunny (not at the moment) California!

I reckon I should also post my introduction.  :)

I was born and raised in San Jose, California and now live a rock's throw away in a town that I think is quite a bit nicer than SJ. :) It's smaller and a bit cozier (IMHO). I'm doing what I love (most of the time) --- teaching. I always played "school" when I was a kid and never thought it would become anything more than that. It's funny, growing up I always wanted to have kids someday, but the prospect of marriage never was entertained by me. Now, I got my wish... I have 33+ kids daily and can have fun with them (and get frustrated by them) and come home to some peace and quiet. The best of both worlds!  :)  I do have a "son"/roommate. He's a grey tabby who answers to the name of "Riley". He rarely argues, but always feels he needs to have the last word.... er... mew.

Here he is wanting to do some paper crafting with dad. He loves Jetmax cubes, as you can see:

I've always loved arts and crafts and drawing. I discovered scrapbooking several years ago and gave it a shot... but being single with no kids of my own, I got bored creating layouts of Riley or vacations. So then I discovered card making and haven't looked back. I think what I like most about it is that my mom LOVES to make cards with me so each session is an opportunity to build memories with her. Yep, I guess I'm something of a mama's boy. Here she is doing what shes does best:

With regards to who inspires me... that's a tough question. I don't think there is anybody who does NOT inspire me. Yes, I'm inspired by "professionial" designers who are more akin to my style (Niki Estes, Alli Miles, and Betsy Veldman come to mind), but I'm also inspired by the "laymen" of the paper crafting world... people who are on various forums which I frequent. These people (mostly ladies of course) REALLY have so much talent and boggles my mind to see what some people can do with paper, glue, and ink. If I can someday have HALF the talent, I'd be thrilled!

Hmm... favorite technique? Well, I have to say I'm fairly new to sewing and heat embossing and LOVING it... it's really not as hard as I first thought.  :)  Not to toot my own horn, but I'm very proud of myself for trying new techniques.  :)

One of my new year's resolutions this year is to SUBMIT one of my creations to a magazine. I don't care if I get published or not... LOL! I just want to SUBMIT something. :) I would be on Cloud Nine if I got published, but just saying I've submitted something will boost my confidence (something which I sorely lack).

I am eager to be part of the PALs and meet some wonderful people and not only allow them to help me grow in this crazy hobby, but also watch as they grow in their skills... as a teacher, one of my joys is watching others grow (whether I help them or not!)...so I can't wait to watch my PALs grow along with me. :)

Thanks for reading!

Hello from Ohio Cow Country!

Hi all! I am Rebecca (MamaReebs). I am from a small town in Ohio where I live with my husband and 8 yr old daughter. I was a sahm until my daughter started 1st grade and then I joined the family business.

What got you into papercrafting?
My introduction to stamping was through my Aunt. She held a SU party and I was hooked. My mother is a painter and I have always envied her ability to see something and draw it. Stamping gives me a creative outlet even though I don't posses her skills.

What is your favorite technique in papercrafting?
I would say I have favorite elements rather than techniques. I think the key to good card making is dimension and I love sparkle of any kind! I tend to grab for the punches when I am creating and I use lots of pop dots:)

What do you hope to gain from joining the PALs?
I joined the group to challenge myself to do more stamping. Since I started working outside of the house I have not spent my free time doing what I love.

I am very excited to get to know everyone here and get our stampin' on! ~ MamaReebs

Greetings from Ohio!

Hi all, I'm Liz M and I live in a suburb of Columbus, Ohio. I live with my husband of 4 years, Brandon and our daughter who is 20 months, Alexia (we call her Lexi). We have two cats and a dog.

I've been making cards for a long time. I started out when I was younger (late elementary school) and I'd make them for my parents with just drawings and words on them. I slacked off in high school and college and once I was on my own, started back up. I didn't start stamping until a few years ago. I tried scrapbooking, but the 12x12 pages were too much. I love doing cards because you get immediate gratification when you give them to someone and they take a lot less time to do!

I'm inspired by a lot of different design teams. Especially when challenges are posted and they have different inspiration pieces up. It's amazing what some of these people can do!

I don't really have a favorite technique when papercrafting. I always think of who the recipient is going to be (I very rarely make something to just have a stash), so that kind of guides me as to if I need to be simple or all-out wowing! I do enjoy using an edge distresser, though! It helps take out some aggression on paper!

I'm very excited to join the Papertrey PALs group! I'm really looking forward to having a challenge every two weeks that will hopefully push me to try new things. I seem to do a lot of the same-old, same-old, so it'll be nice to have everyone's fresh ideas. And I'm looking forward to "meeting" 14 new people!

I can't wait for our first challenge! Thanks for including me in the group!

Hello from cow country :)

Hi there, it's me, Diane J., posting from beautiful Lancaster County, PA. I really am blessed to live in such a beautiful area, even if it doesn't always smell so pretty here (like when they fertilize the fields, hee hee ;) I'm a 51 year old SAHM. I have 2 kids, Connor (13), and Ali (8). Yes, I got a late start having a family, I was 38 when I had Connor and 42 when I had Ali. This wouldn't have been my ideal choice, it's just the way my life worked out. My husband, Dave, is the love of my life and the most wonderful person I know. He's a computer programmer by day, and a volunteer firefighter by night and weekend :)

*What got you into papercrafting?
I started scrapbooking when my son Connor was born, 13 years ago. I discovered stamping shortly thereafter. I primarily worked on family scrapbooks for about 10 years, with a bit of card making thrown in. Then I gave up EVERYTHING for almost 2 years. Last year I rediscovered my passion for paper crafts, but I still have NO desire to scrap book again, we'll have to see if that returns to me at some point.

*Is there anybody who inspires you? If so, who?
Obviously Nichole and her team have had a HUGE impact on me since I discovered them this past October. I love everything PTI does, and "most" other companies pale in comparison imho.

*What is your favorite technique in papercrafting?
Well, there are quite a few things I love. I love paper piecing (partly because I love the look of it and partly because I'm not good at "coloring in" images ;) Since discovering PTI I've been enjoying the fun templates they design (boxes and bags and such). I've also been grooving on Lauren Meaders new venture. Love the idea of stamps to coordinate with the templates.

*What do you hope to gain from joining the PALs?
I hope to get to know you all better, and to LEARN from you! I hope that if I ask for constructive criticism you won't be afraid to give it to me; I really want to stretch my creativity!!

*Anything else you want to say?
I have a goal for this year. I want to start an Etsy shop. I have no idea where this will take me, or if I will have success selling my crafts, but this is my goal. I have NO desire to go back to the corporate world as my kids get older, and I would love to make a little business for myself selling my crafts. I'm not hoping to get rich, just make enough to be able to pay for all of my crafty purchases "myself", and not have to dip into household funds. My husband is VERY generous in that regard, but it still makes me feel guilty that I don't have a job, and I know that making some money and paying for my purchases myself would ease that guilt. I do currently sell things to friends, but I want to bump that up a couple of notches in 2010!

I guess that's it for now, I can't wait to hear from the rest of you!!

Diane

Hey from Missouri! Edited to add answers to THE Questions

Well, thought I had better get on here and introduce myself better. I am Liz D from Mo. I live in mid-Missouri in the boonies. We are about 15 miles from the nearest town of 2000, then about an hour and half from any decent shopping place besides Wal-Mart (not that that is decent :>))) I live with my husband (well, since he has been in the big desert for the past year- that is subjective, however, he should be home soon.) Also, our two sons, Cody 13 and Aron 11. I'm an RN and Family Nurse Practitioner (currently not working since Jeff is currently gone with the Army.)

We live on a farm, have cattle, chickens, dogs, cats etc. We live down a relatively isolated gravel road and are a frequent drop off place for others unwanted pets, so our population changes frequently!

What got you into papercrafting? I started scrapbooking about 11 years ago when our 2 adopted sons came to live with us as foster kids. I soon realized that I should sell the stuff (creative memories) and get a discount. I had quit my job as a family nurse practitioner suddenly when we got the oppurtunity to take Cody and Aron into our home and suddenly I was not bringing a paycheck home. In a soon to become common practice :.)) , I manipulated the circumstances and started holding workshops etc and saying that it was paying for my habit. I frequently go cropping with others at my not so local scrapbooking store (it is about 45 min. away). I taught classes there for awhile and loved that.

I started making cards about a year ago, when I was asked to teach a card class. I love the art and the small canvases that cards become. I found PTI when I was looking for sentiments, bought a couple of sets and soon forgot about them. This fall I found them again and its all history now. I am addicted. I love their products!

Is there anybody who inspires you? If so, who? Nicole and PTI designers and Tim Holtz and Wendi Vecchi

What is your favorite technique in papercrafting? I love vintagy looking stuff, can't wait to use my PTI stamps and grunge them up!

What do you hope to gain from joining the PALs? fellowship, encouragemnet, incentive to get something done and use up my supplies!!

Anything else you want to say?
Anyway, that's my history, except for the Scrapcarver part. I was a woodcarver and when Cody and Aron came to live with us at 26 months and 9 months, I put my sharp tools up and haven't gone back to it. Need to work on that!

Well, I am so glad to be part of this group and can't wait to get to know you all!
Liz D in MO

HELLLLLLOOOOOO from NYC!!!!

My name is Sue Ann and I am a Pal!! Currently I live in NYC ....... hopefully not much longer!!! I am longing for a driveway and dishwasher!! I am married to my best friend, Curt, and have 3 great kiddies ..... Emma Anton and Ava.

I have always been crafty but what sealed the deal for investing in papercrafts was when we got married and no one had what I wanted for a program cover. I knew what i wanted and the rest is history.

I would have to say that I have wondered over the internet for many years but when I first found PTI I was "captured" by Nicole. I did know there was a forum, I would visit her blog all the time...... you would think at some point I would have picked up on all the huge clues that there was a forum ..... did I mention I am blond ?? There are so many crafters out there that I think are great.... the girls on the PTI DT are great a great group and so very creative!!!

I cannot say there is a technique that is my favorite but I can say that I would have a hard time living without ribbon and buttons!!!

I am looking to grow, learn and be enabled to spend money :) Seriously I learn something from everyone's blog that I visit and have that ah ha moment all the time. To be with a select group is like taking an online class ..... I am very excited!!! Not to mention that most of the people in my neighborhood speak polish so it is nice to have a group who speaks my lingo .... papercrafts!!!!

Okay that is it for me.......... Let's get this party started!!!!

Ooh, me first! (Jessica)

Hi gang, I'm Jessica! I live on the wonderful wet coast of BC, near Vancouver. So please excuse the 'u' in colour, I can't help it, I'm Canadian ;)

I'm a computer geek by day, crafter by night. Oh, and also a mom to one four year-old girl and two cats, and also wife to an amazing husband.

* What got you into papercrafting?
I've always been a crafter, I have a scrapbook I created way back in high school!

* Is there anybody who inspires you? If so, who?
I am inspired by so many people, and not just the 70+ crafters in my Google Reader blog list! I have several "real life" crafty friends, who are awesome (and not just because I'm sure they'll be reading this eventually)

* What is your favorite technique in papercrafting?
Hmm...I don't think I can pick just one. I love trying so many different techniques!

* What do you hope to gain from joining the PALs?
A bunch of new, fun, talented crafty friends. Challenges to keep me busy in my crafts room. Fame and fortune.

* Anything else you want to say?
I can't wait to get started!

Invitations to have some more PALs become authors! :)

Okay... at 9:22 PM PST on Saturday, January 16, 2010... I invited you all to become authors (please check your email boxes and/or spam boxes).

So I know you accepted the invitation, why not create a post to let us know you better... you can talk about anything you want regarding your crafting life.

Some ideas:

• What got you into papercrafting?
• Is there anybody who inspires you? If so, who?
• What is your favorite technique in papercrafting?
• What do you hope to gain from joining the PALs?
• Anything else you want to say?

I look forward to reading your introductory posts! :)

PALs Mission Statement and Charter

We, the Papertrey PALs, in order to form the most perfect papercrafted project, and (more importantly), to be supportive to each other, understand the following mission:

Our mission statement is that we'll have a LOT of fun creating paper (and other) projects and just hanging out (even if it's electronically) with each other. We will grow as card makers and crafters. We would do this by participating in the challenges, discovering new techniques (possibly from tutorials we could post here), and learning from each other.


Another part of the mission is to support our fellow pals by visiting each other's blogs, offering advice and comments and building friendships.

Our charter:

1. We realize that REAL LIFE will ALWAYS take precedence over the PALs. Our faith, family, friends, and loved ones always come first and things in REAL life DO come up. This is our DIVERSION, not our OCCUPATION.

2. We realize that there are 15 of us, and if we're in need of support, we have 14 PALs to come to our rescue. This may mean asking the group if anybody can take over as host/hostess for a week if something comes up (see #1 above).

3. Homemade brownies are good things.

4. We realize that if we ask, "What could I have done better with this project," we're ready to hear suggestions and won't get our feelings hurt. If we don't want suggestions, we won't ask.  ;)

5. Constructive criticism is part of growth in any art form. We will be kind to each other and use supportive words... Being constructive is so helpful... so "I really like how you added those buttons in the corner of your card" is more useful to the artist than "Nice card", which is a WHOLE lot nicer than: "Did you make this with no lights on?" 

6. Homemade brownies are always welcome to be sent to Ted.

7. Participating in challenges is optional, and yet VERY much encouraged!

8. Challenges will be every two weeks (barring any major holidays or emergencies)

9. All PALs will keep other PALs' information (such as email addresses, or real addresses) confidential.

10. Something about brownies... but I forget.

Welcome to Papertrey PALS!

Welcome to Papertrey PALS, a blog dedicated to a group of stampin', craftin' friends who met each other at the forums of Papertrey Ink and decided to create a blogging group! :)

We're glad you've joined us! :)