Dandelion Designs

One Day Late...

2012-02-15T08:15:00.002-10:00

Happy Belated Valentine's!!! This card started out as a Valentine wish...but, I just couldn't finish it in time. Soooo...midstream it changed into a friendship card. Anyway...hope you had a good one!!!!

Stamps used:

Dog with Heart and Flower stamps: CL-4 (Lots of Love cling set)
"Friends" sentiment: CL-8 (Friends cling set)

A New Stamp for Girl's Day

2012-02-06T08:00:00.001-10:00

Girl's Day is just around the corner on March 3...so, here is our new Girl's Day stamp for this year:

If your interested in making this box, click here to get a pattern. Cut along solid lines and fold along dotted lines. Apply double stick tape to all tabs. Cut out a 2-1/4" x 3-1/4" piece of acetate, and apply double stick tape to all 4 edges (this will be the "window"):

Next, fold the piece on the right to form the box bottom...stick the piece of acetate to the backside of the piece on the left:

Place in the box bottom on the other piece:

Wrap the outer piece around the box bottom (snugly, but with enough room for the box to slide) and secure with double stick tape. Punch a 1/8" hole in the side of the box bottom and tie a piece of ribbon as shown:

Slip the ribbon through the hole for a "drawer pull"...and decorate your box...that's it!!!

Here's a look at the set:

As you can see...the "Girl's Day" words are separate stamps, so you can use the girls all year round...simply stamp them alone...or add other small stamps:

Stamps used: Sakura background (CL-8 Friends)
Tiny Sakura (CL-11 Keiko)
To, From (Stamp #6023)

Thanks for stopping by today!!!

This Time With a Real Cupcake

2012-02-03T10:05:00.005-10:00

Hi!!! Back again with a real cupcake...same idea as yesterday's post, but this time I got a red velvet cupcake from The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf. I love how they package it in a plastic cup...I just added a decorated strip along the bottom (resting in the lip of the lid)...instant party favor!!!

Also, I wanted to share with you a card that Lianne (Cute Stuff) made. She was inspired by Patti's card and created this adorable card using Keiko (CL-11):

Pull the panel with Keiko to the right to reveal "arigato" (CL-11):

Open the next flap...instead of revealing a gift of money, Lianne added another sentiment (Stamp #C148 - Extra Special):

Soooo cute!!! I love how the flowers in her hair match her kimono!!! Thanks for sharing your card, Lianne!!

Hope you all have a great weekend!!! Stop by next week to see our new stamp for Girl's Day!!!

A Quick Tag

2012-02-02T11:05:00.002-10:00

Here's a quick Valentine tag...hmmmm...that might make a cute project with a real cupcake...

Stamps used:

Dog stamp (MC-2 So Glad We're Griends)
Heart, cupcake and sentiment (MC-15 Fuzzy Bear 1)

This 'n That

2012-01-31T16:16:00.005-10:00

Hey there!! Is anyone else having a hard time believing it's already the end of January?!?!? Anyway, I just wanted to stop by today to share a little of what I've been up to this week...just a little of this 'n that:

Stamps used: Bear and "i heart u" (MC16 - Fuzzy Bear 2)
Rose (MC-1 - Friend to Friend)

**I added little scraps of paper patches to the bear to give him a more cuddly look** Click here for the clear tote how-to's.

For the punched flowers, I used a Marvy (yellow) flower punch and stamped #933 (Funky Snowflake) for the center. You can also stamp "Happy Girl's Day" (Stamp #1027) in the heart for Girl's Day coming up on March 3!!

And last, but not least...here's another amazing card from Patti:

It folds flat, but as you open it...

out pops these two furry guys:

I'm STILL trying to figure out how she did that!!! If you'd like to learn how she did it, check out her blog...she has all the step by step details!!

Have a great evening!!!

Wow!!!

2012-01-16T22:41:00.002-10:00

Just received this AWESOME card in the mail from none other than Patti of Creations by Patti. If you've never been to Patti's blog, please take a look at her work...she puts soooo much effort and detail into her work (as you can see!!!).. .each project is a work of art!!!!! Below, she used stamps from MC-13 (Year of the Dragon cling set):

Pull the gold coin to reveal:

I was pretty amazed at the card at this point, but didn't realize that there was still one more surprise:

Wow!!! Hop on over to Patti's blog to get step-by-step instructions on how to make this card. Thanks, Patti!!!!!

Candy Apples

2012-01-13T18:55:00.006-10:00

I was going through some pictures in my camera and ran across these photos of some party favors I made a few months ago. There's not much stamping involved...just 2 stamps...#4016 (Script Birthday) and the banner is from CL-4 (Happy Hello cling set). Anyway, just thought I'd share...hope you have a great weekend!!!

Easel Box Revisited

2012-01-12T18:11:00.002-10:00

I went back to a pattern I posted awhile ago to make these easel boxes...I changed them up a little...here's one for Valentine's Day using Keiko (MC-11 Keiko cling set)...the heart and sentiment are from MC-15 (Fuzzy Bear 1)...and the heart border is from CL-4 (Lots of Love cling set):

Here's what it looks like opened:

Click here to get back to the article with the pattern and instructions. Here's another box using Elliot...just add a mini (1-1/2" x 1-3/4") calendar and you have a handy desktop caddy:

Elliot and banner stamps are from MC-4 (Happy Hello cling set). Thanks for stopping by!!!

One More Fuzzy...

2012-01-10T12:33:00.001-10:00

**Flowers are from CL-10 Flowers Cling Set**

6 Simple Uses For a Fuzzy Bear

2012-01-07T17:01:00.002-10:00

Mini Calendar

2012-01-06T12:00:00.003-10:00

Here's another calendar to mark 2012...the Year of the Dragon!!! Click here for the how-to's.

One More Fuzzy Bear...

2012-01-05T13:23:00.005-10:00

Fuzzy Bears

2012-01-04T21:10:00.004-10:00

Hi!! Hope you all enjoyed your holidays and that your new year is off to a great start!!!! Just wanted to share our 2 newest cling sets for Valentine's...

Both sets come with an "extra hand" (paw) stamp that allows the bears to hold all kinds of things. Mix and match the stamps to come up with a variety of combinations.

Haven't had a chance to do much stamping with all the hustle and bustle of the holidays...looking forward to getting back into the groove!!

Coming Soon...

2012-01-03T16:02:00.002-10:00

Happy New Year!!

2011-12-29T09:58:00.005-10:00

Getting Ready for a New Year

2011-12-28T14:12:00.004-10:00

Year of the Dragon

2011-12-06T22:27:00.004-10:00

2012 is the year of the Dragon...here's a fun way to mark this special year:

I'm using the larger dragon from the MC-13 (Year of the Dragon) cling set and a 1-5/8" x 2-3/8" mini calendar. Click here to get a pattern to make this calendar. Cut the two pattern pieces along the solid lines and score along the dotted lines:

In the photo above, the calendar back is the top piece and the front is the bottom piece.

Start with the front piece (backside facing up). Fold up along the first 2 scored lines on each side.

Fan fold along the rest of the scored lines...then apply double stick tape to the two end tabs.

Attach the back piece to the 2 tabs (above).

I used a couple of glue dots to keep the "screen" part from popping out too much.

To make the stand, I cut a piece of card stock to 1-1/2" x 7-1/2"...score at 1/2", 3-1/2" and 4-1/2"...use double stick tape to form the triangular stand, as shown above.

Attach the stand to the back of the calendar with double stick tape, making sure the bottom edges match up. Use foam dots on the back of the actual calendar and fit into the opening of the "screen". Then attach your dragon to the front and you're done!!!

Enjoy the rest of your week!!!

A Keiko Christmas

2011-12-01T11:12:00.003-10:00

Hi...Just wanted to share with you today how you can use Keiko's "extra hand" to hold a Christmas item...then turn it into a Christmas card:

Stamps used: Keiko (CL-11 Keiko Set)
Wreath (MC-8 Christmas Flowers)
"Happy Holidays" (MC-11 Happy Holidays)

It's officially December...let the fun begin!!!

Ringing In The New Year

2011-11-30T17:18:00.006-10:00

Thought it would be fun to turn some of our new New Year's designs into little standing displays...for your home or your co-workers' desks, maybe?

Click here to get a pattern to make the projects in this post. To make the display table...cut along solid lines and fold along dotted lines. Apply double stick tape to the 4 tabs and adhere:

There's also a little strip pattern...cut out and fold along dotted lines to form a cube (above, left). Use a glue dot to attach to table (above, right).

I stamped, colored and cut out the kadomatsu arrangement (cutting out duplicate pieces and mounting on foam dots for a 3-D effect). Then simply adhere the arrangement to the cube on the table top. Next, I used the same idea but made another pattern a little bit longer to accommodate a calendar:

Follow the same directions for the smaller table...but this time cut out a piece of card stock (pattern included) to mount the calendar on. Score 1/4" from bottom edge and apply double stick tape to this tab...mount kadomatsu with a foam dot, below:

Attach to table:

Thanks for stopping by!!!

Arigato

2011-11-29T20:07:00.002-10:00

You can never have too many thank you cards...all stamps are from our new Keiko set.

New Stamps!!

2011-11-26T12:44:00.006-10:00

Hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving!!! Please forgive my loooong absence...I've been struggling to recover from a particularly bad case of blog burnout!! But, hopefully, some new stamps will make up for that. First up is Keiko...she comes with an "extra hand" to allow her to hold a variety of items:

This set also comes with a branch stamp and a bunch of cherry blossoms to decorate the branch. Helpful hint: the flowers are really tiny, so I tried to line them up in a way that you can cut a couple of them together like this:

That way it will be a little easier to handle. (Sorry, I should have taken a photo of the rubber before I did a ton of stamping with it.) And here is a sample of the project that comes with each set:

As you open the card, the scenery starts to pop up:

Once the card is fully open, you see Keiko standing on a bridge surrounded by cherry blossom branches!!!

Also new for 2012...Year of the Dragon stamps:

and New Year stamps:

Mochi and "kadomatsu" are local traditions used to bring in the new year...bamboo signifies growth and strength...fresh pine represents long life and endurance.

Mini Pointsettias

2011-09-20T22:00:00.004-10:00

Hi...I'm back...I know I promised a gift card holder last time, but I got sidetracked making some mini pointsettias (look closely, they're really lollipops!!):

Here's what you need...2 images of the large pointsettia from the MC-8 cling set (Christmas Flowers). Cut one complete pointsettia and one of just the inner part of the pointsettia (see photo, below). Put a foam dot on the larger flower and mount the smaller flower on top. Use a glue dot to adhere the pointsettia to the lollipop and tie a ribbon. I used a small bathroom cup for the "flower pot"...plus a piece of styrofoam, cut to fit the cup:

Glue the styrofoam to the inside bottom of the cup. Stick your pointsettia lollipops into the styrofoam...then put a strip of double stick tape close to the top of the cup (this tape will keep the foil wrap in place):

Cut a square of foil tissue and wrap around the cup...put another strip of double stick tape around the foil wrap and use that tape to hold the ribbon in place (I also added some crinkled shred to cover the styrofoam base):

Or...they're pretty cute to give away individually too:

I'll get crackin' on finishing up that gift card project...be back soon!!!

Peeking Pals

2011-09-15T13:55:00.003-10:00

Hi!!! Wanted to share with you today how you can use your "extra hand" stamp to make your characters peek over the top of something:

You just need the top half of your character...glue them down behind the "wall"...then cut out 1 or 2 extra hands and glue those on top of the "wall". They can peek out over anything...the top of a gift bag...a pocket on the inside of a card (I'll show you a sample of one of these in the next day or two).

Also, I've been meaning to share the work of a very talented lady from San Francisco...I'm sure a lot of you are already familiar with her gorgeous work...Patti, from Creations by Patti!!! Check out her blog, she has such wonderful ideas...but, I wanted to especially share with you her version of the fan box (free pattern and instructions included in CL-1 Happy Wishes cling set) and her shoji screen card (free pattern and instructions included in CL-8 Friends cling set).

Thanks for visiting...stop by again soon!!!

Christmas Love

2011-09-12T08:00:00.004-10:00

Just popping in to share a quick gift tag:

Stamps Used: Max (MC-2 So Glad We're Friends)
Buddy (MC-5 So Sweet)
Candy Canes (MC-10 Sweet Wishes)
Tiny To, From (#6023)

Little Monster

2011-09-10T16:36:00.004-10:00

Hey there...back to share some more cards!! Today's cards feature one of my faves, Little Monster. For this first card, I stamped 2 images (cutting off one arm from each monster...ouch!!!) along with 2 extra hands...and made 2 little monster pals:

Word stamp is #A118 (Pals). For the next card, I made a Thanksgiving card:

To make this card, I cut my card stock to 4-1/2" high x 5" wide. Score at 1-1/4" from each side. Stamp your sentiment on the inside of the card (paper-piecing the heart)...stamp 1 Little Monster and 2 hand stamps (each hand holding 1 leaf)...punch out a heart (and cut in half) ... cut 2 more leaves:

Glue both halves of your heart as shown below:

Next, glue your monster to the inside of the card...then glue the stem half of your first leaf to the left card flap, as shown below:

Match up the two leaves so that they're interlocked...then glue down the stem half of your second leaf to the right card flap:

Tie a ribbon around your card to hold everything together. I know this is an unusual sized card...I liked the long and skinny look of it...click here to get an envelope pattern for this card.

I decorated the front by masking one leaf over the other:

Hope you're all having a great weekend so far!!!

More Mixin' and Matchin'...

2011-09-09T15:44:00.003-10:00

Happy Aloha Friday!!! I was playing at mixing and matching more of my new cling stamps today and was reminded of paper dolls...remember those? Maybe I'm dating myself. Anyway, today's projects involve making some simple goodie bags. The first uses Elliot in a Halloween theme. I colored the flags black and orange and glued them down only by the 2 end flags...that makes it look more like it's really hanging in the corner there. I used the "extra hand" stamp to let him hold the pumpkin:

Then I switched things up...I stamped 2 hand stamps and now Elliot is holding the banner. I hand-lettered the "hello" on the banner. Maybe you could use it to label the bags with names (only up to 6 letters though).

Thanks for stopping by!!!

One Stamp Card

2011-09-07T23:08:00.004-10:00

For those of you who like quick and easy projects...here's a card that requires no cutting, no coloring, just one stamp and can be completed in under 5 minutes. I used a double sided paper with the darker color on the inside...stamped my design (from CL-10 Flowers cling stamp set) on the front and added rhinestones and a line using a ruler and black pen.

I used the same design on the inside, but this time I used white ink. You can use a white or metallic pen to write your note:

Simple!!

Flowers!!

2011-09-03T15:07:00.004-10:00

Back again...trying to play catch-up this weekend. I actually released this new cling set a few weeks ago, but am only now getting around to posting it...so sorry!! I've been wanting to add a little more florals into my line...so, here's my first attempt:

The pattern that's included in this set is for a gift card holder...it's a card that pops up to reveal your gift card...one in pink:

...and one in purple:

Also, I wanted to share a couple of cards using my new cling stamps. Both cards use the same "Buddy" stamp:

I added the lollipop (with some Glossy Accents) to make an everyday card:

...and then I added some holiday candies for a Christmas card:

It's a lot of fun to mix and match the stamps...I'll share more ideas with you soon!!

New Designs!!

2011-09-03T08:43:00.010-10:00

Happy September everyone!!! This summer has been a busy one for me...my son left for college and I've been busy working on some new designs...and I'm finally ready to share them with you today!! I've always enjoyed using different stamps together...a dog holding a cupcake...a girl with an ice cream cone...but one thing that always bothered me was that the item just looked glued onto a hand. Anyway...that was the thought behind this new line of stamps. I used 5 of my top selling characters along with an "extra hand" stamp. I know you're thinking...whaat??? Well...take a look at the 12 new cling sets first and I'll explain later.

ok...there they are...did you notice that the first 5 sets had an extra hand stamp? (who couldn't use an extra hand...ha! ha!!!) If you stamp, color and cut out that hand stamp you can use it to let your character hold almost anything...and now it actually looks like they're holding it!!! Mix and match with the other sets and that one character can now be used for many different occasions!! Here are some examples of everyday vs holiday (pay special attention to the hands):

I'll be back tomorrow...I released a new cling stamp set a couple of weeks ago, but never got around to sharing it with you. I'll also start sharing some ideas for using these new stamps. Have a great long weekend!!!

Ever Had One of Those Days?

2011-08-03T09:52:00.005-10:00

Hey There...

2011-08-02T21:18:00.008-10:00

Taking a little crafting break...love this paper combo from Cosmo Cricket. Sometimes the paper just makes the card come together so easily!!! Love when that happens!! Stamps are from the "Happy Thoughts" cling set.

Clear Matchboxes

2011-07-22T18:50:00.009-10:00

Happy Saturday!!! Ready for some weekend crafting? I made some little matchbox favors with clear covers (so you can see the goodies on the inside!!!). They fit 4 of the miniature sized chocolates...click here for a pattern. They were so easy and fun to make!!

The smaller pattern piece is for the cardstock tray and the larger pattern piece is for the clear acetate cover. Cut along solid lines and fold along dotted lines. Use double stick tape on the 4 corner tabs of the box...and also along one edge of the acetate (as shown in the photo below):

Then just slide the tray into the acetate cover:

Stamps used: Henry and chocolate bar (Hello cling stamp set) and #A106 (Chocolate dipped).

Try it...you'll have fun!!!

How's Your Summer Going?

2011-07-20T11:45:00.004-10:00

I can't believe that July is already half over...where has the time gone? I've been busy trying to get some drawings done for my holiday stamps (it's hard to think Christmas in the middle of July!!!) and getting ready to be an empty nester as my son prepares to fly the coop!!! Anyway, I had some time to make a trip card today and wanted to share it with you:

This is the first time I've inked up this bird stamp...it's part of the Fun Trip cling stamp set (clouds are from the Happy Thoughts cling set).

Enjoy your summer!!!!

A Quick Card To Share...

2011-06-29T10:44:00.003-10:00

Short and sweet....

Stamps used: C134 (Sitting Quincy), #C135 (Sitting Pong), C133 (Rosebud Heart), "Friends" (CL-8 Friends Cling Set) and Heart Border (CL-4 Lots of Love Cling Set).

Have a great day!!!

Candy Sticks

2011-06-23T22:41:00.002-10:00

I first released "Wrapped in Love" (stamp #C146) last year as part of my Christmas line...since then I've been meaning to do a project using this stamp in a non-Christmas way...now that it's almost July, I'm finally getting around to it!! Better late than never!!! I decided to use it as a baby announcement since I can't think of a better gift to receive than a new baby. I paired it up with some cute candy stick bags that I picked up at Ben Franklin:

Thanks for stopping by!!!

Hot Summer Days

2011-06-22T11:54:00.003-10:00

I was rushing through the market yesterday and thought my lemonade bear (Sunny Days cling set) would go nicely with this bottled drink...for a pool party maybe...or a 4th of July celebration? Looks so refreshing!!!

Also wanted to share the cutest little caddy that Lianne (Cute Stuff) gave me using my "Friends" cling stamps. Can you believe she even decorated the kimonos? Cute!!!

This summer has already been so hot...that cold drink is calling my name!!

A Bunch of Tags

2011-06-20T09:26:00.006-10:00

Hi!! Hope you all had a great weekend!! I had some time over the weekend to do a bit of crafting and I made a bunch of gift tags. Funny how sometimes a project takes on a life of its own...I didn't really have any plans when I started, but I knew I wanted to paper piece the 2 kimonos on these girls (from the Friends cling set) and this is what I ended up with:

I don't know if you can see it, but there's a "shaker thing" going on...to make the shaker, I cut out a rectangular frame and added a piece of acetate to frame opening in the back...then I lined the edges with double stick foam tape (make sure you don't leave any gaps...don't want the glitter falling out)...then sprinkle some glitter on the center of the tag before you adhere the frame:

I liked the way it turned out, so I made some more using my "Fun Trip" cling set:

The clouds on this tag is from the "Happy Thoughts" cling set and the tiny to/from stamp is stamp #6023.

Hello Again...

2011-06-13T13:44:00.005-10:00

Today I'm using the stamps from the "Hello" set again...this time to make a card:

It's good to keep a bunch of these very general types of cards around...when the occasion arises, just stamp an appropriate sentiment inside...Happy Birthday, Thank You, etc...it goes with almost anything. Hope your week is off to a great start!!!

Hello...

2011-06-11T09:44:00.004-10:00

Back to share the last of the new cling sets...this one features a new character, Henry the Hedgehog:

The pattern that comes with this set is for a gift box that can hold either a candy bar or a gift of money...here's what it looks like from the outside (you can personalize it with someone's name on the tag):

Open the box up to reveal Henry...surprise!!!

Here's a view of Henry holding flowers and a gift of money:

Hope you enjoyed seeing our 4 new sets...I'll try to better about posting more regularly!! Until next time...have a great weekend!!!

Friends Cling Set

2011-06-09T18:09:00.009-10:00

Our third new cling stamp set is called "Friends"...

Now that I figured out how to animate my pictures...I had fun with the photos below (I promise I'll stop after this). The project included in the "Friends" Set is for a card with a sliding shoji screen door. Move your mouse over the photos to see the door open and close:

The pattern calls for the door to have cut-out panes...but, as I was making the pattern I could actually hear some of you groaning at the thought of cutting out all those rectangular pieces...so, here's a shortcut:

I just cut out one big panel in each of the doors...I used the bamboo stamp in white Staz-On ink on vellum paper...you can use your mouse to open and close these doors too!!

A portion of the proceeds from the sale of each "Friends" stamp set will be donated to relief efforts in Japan...I'll keep you updated on that!!

Fun Trip Cling Set

2011-06-09T13:21:00.011-10:00

Today I'm back to share the project in our new "Fun Trip" cling stamp set:

With summer comes a lot of trips and family vacations...here's a card to send someone off on a grand time:

I was experimenting a little, if you move your mouse over the image you'll see this card in action!! I also did this card as a birthday card. I think it's always harder to make a card for a boy...but, I think this would do the trick:

Just in case you were wondering....I didn't animate this second card (thought I didn't see you try, right?). Well...thanks for stopping by today...check back tomorrow for another project!!

New Cling Sets

2011-06-08T08:36:00.008-10:00

It sure has been awhile since my last post...life has been a bit of a blur this year, but I'm back and here to share some new stuff!! I've just come out with 4 new cling stamp sets, and here they are:

Sunny Days Set

Fun Trip Set

Friends Set

Hello Set

Each cling stamp set comes with a pattern and directions to make a project...I'll be back over the next week to share each of the 4 projects. Today, I have a card that comes in the Sunny Days set. Here's what the outside of the card looks like:

Open it up to show a 3-D beach/pool scene....just in time for summer!!

A glass of ice cold pink lemonade sounds really good right about now!!! See you later with the rest of the projects!!

Springtime Joy

2011-04-18T21:14:00.006-10:00

Don't you just love spring colors?

A Teeny Tiny Box

2011-04-02T13:25:00.004-10:00

ok...I warned you, this box is really tiny...but, I made it to go with a couple of my stamps. First up is Stamp #B144 (Little Wagon):

To make the box, cut a piece of card stock to 1-1/2" x 2"...score at 3/8" from each edge and clip at the highlighted pink lines below:

Use double stick tape on 4 tabs to form box. Cut out 2 wagons (one with the handle, one without). Glue the wagons to the sides of the box...add stamps #C139 (Easter Bunny) and #1212 (Easter Egg 1).

You can use the same box with stamp #C120 (Floral Basket):

Have a good weekend!!!

Hippity Hoppity...

2011-04-01T12:20:00.005-10:00

Easter's on its way!!!

Lots of Love

2011-03-30T09:35:00.004-10:00

Good Wednesday morning!! I'm back to share my next project, which comes in the "Lots of Love" cling set...it's a simple heart pouch that you can fill with little treats:

The pattern and instructions to make this project are included in the "Lots of Love" cling set shown below:

Just for fun, I added a ribbon to turn it into a heart purse:

Sorry for the short posts...but, the best way for me to keep up with this blog is to post pictures and run...hope you enjoy looking!!!

An Easter Gift Bag

2011-03-25T19:23:00.003-10:00

Here's a quick idea to make a store bought tote bag into a cute gift bag for Easter:

I started by cutting a 2-1/2" x 5" opening in the front of the tote bag...line the edges with double stick tape:

Next I cut out a 3" x 5-1/2" piece of coordinating card stock...measure 1/2" from each edge to cut out a window...tape a piece of acetate from behind to form the window:

Then just stick the window onto the bag and mount your stamped images with foam dots on top of the window:

All of the stamps used in this project is from the "Happy Easter" cling stamp set...including the Easter egg and decorations!! Have a great weekend!!!

Bubbles & Smiles

2011-03-24T10:30:00.002-10:00

Good Morning!! Hope you're all having a great week so far!! I'm stopping by to share another project...I call it a "telescope" card:

Pull the ribbon to reveal the greeting:

Pull further to reveal another panel:

The pattern and instructions for this card are included in my "Bubbles & Smiles" cling set:

May your day bubble over with smiles!! :)

A Bunch of Daffodils

2011-03-20T18:19:00.004-10:00

Just a little something to brighten up your Easter holidays...aren't daffodils so cheerful?

I colored and cut out some of my mini Easter stamps and attached them to toothpicks using glue dots...then I just stuck them into the center of each daffodil!!

Happy Little Thoughts

2011-03-20T09:24:00.004-10:00

Hi...hope you're all having a great Sunday!! Just wanted to share the project from my "Happy Thoughts" cling set:

Pull the ribbon to reveal the scene inside:

That should brighten someone's day!! Patterns and instructions are included in the Happy Thoughts set:

I also made a checkbook cover from this stamp set (also used is stamp #4009 - Sun).

Happy little thoughts to you!!!

Errr....Errrr......

2011-03-17T16:24:00.005-10:00

That's the sound of me, trying to get my gears back into motion after such a long break...they're still a little rusty, but let's give it a try...

One of the reasons for my extended break is that I have been busy working on some new (maybe not so new to those of you in Hawaii) cling stamp sets. Each set comes with a pattern and instructions to make a special project...I'll share each project over the next week or so...but for now, here are the sets:

Set 1 - Happy Wishes:

Set 2 - Happy Thoughts:

Set 3 - Bubbles & Smiles:

Set 4 - Lots of Love

And my latest addition...Set 5 - Happy Easter:

I'll start with the project for my Happy Easter set first, since Easter is on its way...it's an Easter treat box:

Open the lid to reveal some surprises:

I'll be back later to show you the rest of the projects!!

Marshmallow Snowmen

2010-12-10T19:18:00.006-10:00

Hope you're all enjoying the holiday season!!! It's been rather hectic around here...but, my son and I took some time to come up with these marshmallow cuties (he was the taste tester...lol) :

I used black Staz-On ink with stamp #A153 (Snowman Face) on the outside of a treat bag...paper-piecing the snowman's nose:

To make the snowmen, I put three marshmallows on a lollipop stick and dipped it into melted Guittard white chocolate (adding 3 m&m's for buttons)...then I popped them in the refrigerator for 10 minutes to allow the chocolate to harden.

Then, just wrap them up in the bags...aligning the snowman's face with the top marshmallow!! Hope you have time to give it a try!!!

Our Giveaway Winner!!

2010-12-01T09:38:00.002-10:00

Judy from Georgia!!! You're our "outside of Hawaii" winner!! Please email your address to me (dandelion.designs@hawaiiantel.net) and I will send the stamps out to you ASAP (so you can get going on some holiday projects!!!). To those of you in Hawaii...remember you have until this Saturday to enter drawings at various stores around the islands (see post below).

Hope to be back soon with some Christmas projects!!!

A Holiday Giveaway

2010-11-26T08:50:00.003-10:00

Hope you all had a very Happy Thanksgiving!!! To kick off the holiday season, we're doing a very special giveaway with our Hawaii craft stores. (For those of you outside of Hawaii...read on, I'll do something for you too!!). Anyway...we'll be giving away a stamp set (assortment of stamps varies by store), with a retail value of over $45 at participating Hawaii stores. Here's a sample of one of the sets:

To enter the drawing, simply go to one of the participating stores between Saturday, November 27 and Saturday, December 4...fill in an entry blank (1 entry per person/per store/per day, please) and you'll be entered!!! It's as easy as that!! Here's a list of the participating stores:

Ben Franklin Crafts

Enchanted Lake
Market City
Pearl City
Paa
Kauai (Ace)
Maui
Hilo
Kona (Ace)
Kamuela (Ace)

Cute Stuff

J's Knicknacks

Photo Craft

Stamps & Memories

Winners will be announced by each store (I will not be announcing winners on this blog...please check with each store for results).

Now, for those of you who aren't here in Hawaii....I'll be giving one of these sets away to you too!! Just leave me a comment by Tuesday, November 30...tell me where you're from...and I'll pick one winner at random and announce their name on Wednesday, December 1. Good luck to everyone!!!

A Gift Card Holder

2010-11-12T18:36:00.002-10:00

Happy Aloha Friday!! I have a quick project to share with you today...maybe you can whip some up over the weekend (it's always good to have some made up before the busy-ness begins!!). It's a simple matchbook gift card holder:

I cut a piece of card stock to 3" x 9-1/4"...then scored it at 4-1/4" and 8-3/4". I stamped and decorated the cover with stamps #922 (Merry Christmas), #A154 (Peppermint Flowers) and #A155 (Candy Cane Chick). Staple a 12" piece of ribbon in the center of the 1/2" tab, as shown below:

Tie the ribbon into a bow. Cut two pieces of 1/2" x 1-1/2" card stock (these will be like photo corners to hold the gift card in place)...and fold as shown below:

Wrap the corners around the gift card, and apply double stick tape to the back of each corner...then stick to card:

Hope you have a great weekend and can find some stamping time!!!

A Re-Do

2010-11-09T20:16:00.003-10:00

Thanks for the suggestions on how to improve my "turkey favor" from yesterday's post...make the tail wider!!!! ok...got it!!! (Can you tell I'm a city girl?) Let's give it another try...click here for an updated pattern. How's this?

I tweaked the first pattern a little, but the instructions are pretty much the same. One difference is to cut the patterned paper to 3" x 4", then fan fold the top like before:

I changed the back a bit to cut down on the bulkiness. Now I have just one tab on the backside. Fill the bag with your treats and use double stick tape to close the bag, as shown below:

Oh...and take a look at Saskia's blog...Halloween is already passed and I'm only now getting around to linking to her adorable project.

Have a great night!!

This Didn't Really Turn Out Exactly The Way I Imagined, But I'll Share It Anyway

2010-11-08T16:51:00.004-10:00

Since Thanksgiving is quickly approaching, I had a great idea to make a turkey favor with stamp #A152 (Turkey Face)...the only thing is that it turned out looking more like a rooster!! But, since I already made it, I thought I'd share it with you anyway...lol

Click here for a simple pattern. ETA: This pattern has been revised...see 11/9/10 post to see sample of adjusted pattern). I used brown mailing paper for the bag...cutting on the solid lines and folding on the dotted lines. Use double stick tape to seal the bottom of the bag. Next, stamp and color in the face and glue a 2" x 4" patterned paper to the top/front of the bag (this will be the tail feathers). Fold the sides in like a regular brown paper bag...starting at the top edge of the bag, make 8 scored lines (1/2" apart)...then score once more, 1" away. Fill the bag with your treats...then following the scored lines, fan-fold the top of the bag. Pull up the top of the fan and staple together (as shown below):

Use 2 glue dots between folds, as shown below (I used pop dots for the photo, so you could see them better):

And one glue dot on the back:

Hmmmm...maybe if I made the "head" smaller:

What do you think?

As Simple As It Gets

2010-10-20T10:44:00.004-10:00

For those of you who need to make a bunch of Halloween goodies for next week, and haven't started yet (I know you're out there!!)...here's a super simple, fast and easy project (Why does the right lollipop look deflated? lol):

I cut two 6" x 6" pieces of tissue paper and stamped #A151 (Pumpkin Face):

Then just wrap it around a Tootsie Roll lollipop and you're done!! Can't get any simpler than that...you can even let the kids get involved with making them for classmates!!

Have fun!!!

Holiday Clear Totes

2010-10-17T10:03:00.002-10:00

Earlier in the year I posted a pattern for a clear tote bag, and I thought I'd give it another try with a holiday spin to it:

This time, I used a wired garland for the handles instead of ribbon...much more festive!!! This tote holds 2 chocolate dipped shortbread cookies.

To make this tote (above) more Christmas-y, I added stamp #931 (Santa's Hat) to stamp #A137 (Buddy With Cookies)...along with the word stamp #A130 (Cookies Make the Holidays Happy). For the tote below I used stamp #B134 (Christmas Cookies):

Can't forget Halloween (it's only 2 weeks away, you know!!!):

This tote uses stamp #A150 (Ghost and Pumpkin). Instead of handles, I decided to close this bag with a flap. I folded in the sides of the bag (like a brown paper bag)...then stapled it shut. I stamped #B108 (Halloween Scroll) on a 2" x 2" piece of cardstock...cut the edge around the stamped image and scored the piece to fold approximately in half...then I used double stick tape to attach to the bag. I hope the photo below makes it clearer:

Thanks for stopping by...hope you can find some time to craft today!!!

Trick or Treat

2010-10-12T23:29:00.004-10:00

Happy Wednesday morning!! I've been trying to draw some new designs, but nothing has been working out quite right...don't you hate when you're trying to create and that happens?? Anyway...instead of getting frustrated, I thought I'd try to get my creative juices flowing with some stamping. I've been meaning to use my "Little Monster Pals" stamp for a Halloween project. Just by adding stamp #708 (Pumpkin Basket)...they've been turned into little trick-or-treating monsters!! I combined them with my trio of trick-or-treating word stamps to get this:

I used my 2 Marvy tag punches (pink and blue), with a foam dot in between for dimension. Here's a closer look at each panel:

The measurements for this card is 2-3/4" x 6-1/4"...score at 2", 4" and 4-1/4". Of course, you'll need something to put the card in...click here for a simple template for this "flapless envelope/box":

Fold up the card and it slips right in. I kept the outside decorations simple using stamp #701 (Pumpkin) and a place to address the "envelope". Then I got carried away and had to make one using some belated birthday stamps:

I used a Martha Stewart scallop border punch...if you punch out a border, make sure you punch it out first and then measure your card size to 2-3/4" x 8-1/4". Score at 2", 4", 4-1/4" and 6-1/4". Here's a closer look:

With that extra 4th panel, you'll need a little wider box...click here for a template.

ok...it's back to the drawing board for me...wish me luck!!!

Spider Web Card

2010-10-10T22:29:00.003-10:00

Well...I just couldn't seem to get a good picture of this card...but, believe me...it looks better in person...more sparkly!! Anyway, here it is:

I also made it into a tag:

To make this card or tag...start with a 5" x 4" piece of cardstock. Fold in half for a finished size of 2-1/2" x 4". Use a 1-1/2" circle punch to punch a circle through both layers (below, left). To make a card, you'll need an extra piece (below, right) of 2-1/2" x 4" cardstock (punch a 1-1/2" circle through this piece also). Stamp #A109 (Spider Web) on a 1-3/4" x 1-3/4" piece of acetate (using Staz-On ink). Add glitter glue and some bling to the web!!!

Apply double stick tape like this:

Remove the paper backing from the double stick tape...center the spider web in the punched circle and adhere. For the tag...fold in half and seal the two halves together...punch a hole and thread a ribbon. For the card...center the spider web in the punched circle...then seal with the extra piece of cardstock you cut earlier. Here's a close-up of the web:

I also used stamp #710 (Happy Halloween) and embossed it with a sparkly silver embossing powder. Thanks for stopping by!!!

M&M Containers

2010-10-09T15:54:00.002-10:00

ok...I really cannot resist cute little things like this:

I found these containers at Ben Franklin, and by the tag I can see that they are some kind of jewelry case...to hold beads or something (I really don't want to know right now because it looks like I could get carried away with another craft, if you know what I mean!!). Anyway, they look exactly like the mini M&M containers. Time to get to work decorating these guys:

Can't forget to decorate the tops:

The glittery black paper (love it!!) and Martha Stewart spider web punch are from J's Knicknacks. To make the web for the top of the container (shown below)...I cut a strip of 1" paper and punched both edges of the paper, trying to match the 2 halves of the web (looks pretty good, even if I didn't match the two sides exactly).

And how about making some for baby showers or announcements:

Hope you're enjoying your long holiday weekend!!

Hoot! Hoot!

2010-10-07T13:46:00.003-10:00

I was playing with some sponging today to make this quick Halloween card:

All I did was make a template by punching out a 2" circle out of a scrap of paper...

First, take the piece with the circle punched out and place it over your card where you want the moon to be. Use a sponge dauber to apply color (I just used my ink pads)...I used yellow and orange for the moon:

Remove the template to reveal the moon:

Now, take the circle you punched out and place it over the moon as a mask...I sponged the rest of the card with black and purple:

Remove the mask to reveal a spooooky Halloween sky:

I finished off the card with stamps #710 (Happy Halloween), #A148 (What a Hoot) and #B149 (Spooky Branch). Short and sweet post today...have a good day!!!

Forgot About These...

2010-10-04T14:21:00.005-10:00

Happy October!!! Last month while I was doing some giveaways, I made this little box for the winner of the 3 holiday face stamps...it fits 3 of our Dandelion "A" size stamps perfectly. I took a picture of it and then forgot about it in my camera:

Click here for a simple pattern. Cut along the solid lines and fold along the dotted lines. Use double stick tape on the 4 tabs. Wrap the cover piece around the assembled box and secure ends with double stick tape. Here's what the stamps look like in the box:

As it turns out...it's also the perfect size for 3 Ferrero Rocher candies...I love these because they already come with their own little paper cups!!!

Also, I got an extra surprise in the mail...it's from Brenda (Sweet as a Gumdrop)...Thanks, Brenda...these sure are sweet!!! Be sure to stop by and see all the adorable creations Brenda has on her blog!!!

I'm working on more Halloween ideas...hope to post them soon!!!

Make Your Own Pen

2010-09-16T23:25:00.002-10:00

Found these cool pens at Ben Franklin (they're only 49 cents!!). It's a plain brown cardboard pen that you can use plain OR decorate...and we stampers like to decorate whatever we can get our hands on, right?

Here's what they looked like when I bought them:

I stamped them first with a snowflake background (Stamp #A113) using white Staz-On ink...I inked the stamp and placed it rubber-side-up (as shown below)...then just rolled the pen over the stamp:

Next I stamped, colored and cut out my designs (stamp #934 - Mini Max and stamp #925 - Holly)...glued them to the pen...added glitter glue to the center of each snowflake and finished it off with a coat of Mod Podge and a ribbon:

Perfect little gifts for Christmas!!

Our Final Winner

2010-09-10T19:32:00.002-10:00

Congratulations go to jazzo (love that name!!)...our final winner for this series of stamps!!! jazzo, email your address to me and I'll get the stamps and the travel mug out to you!! Thank you to all who entered and for all the wonderful suggestions for new stamp designs...you've given me a lot of inspiration as I go back to the drawing board!!!

One quick project for today:

This project all started with one stamp...it's actually called "Funky Snowflake" and I released it last year as part of my Christmas line. I just got to thinking that it would make a cute flower center...give it a nice 3-D effect. I stamped it, cut it out and punched a 1/16" hole in the center. I also punched out a flower using a Marvy (yellow) punch, then also punched a 1/16" hole in the center. I attached the 2 pieces with a flower brad:

It reminded me of a cherry blossom, so I stamped some kokeshi dolls...and then came up with this pattern to put it all together.

(I put a Girl's Day label on this in case you want to come back to this project in March). Thanks for stopping by and have a great weekend!!!

Our Final Giveaway

2010-09-08T11:42:00.003-10:00

Well...we've finally reached the end of this round of new designs. Thank you to all of you who've stopped by to take a look...I've had a lot of fun sharing my new designs with you!!! Before I show you the last few designs, I'd like to announce that CASSIE is the winner of our "little monster" giveaway!! Email me your address, Cassie...and I'll mail your stamps out to you!!!

This post is a mish mash of stamps and ideas...I'll start with a photo mug I got at Starbucks. Instead of photos, I used stamps:

This stamp features our panda, Ping and is called "Wrapped With Love". I paper pieced the gift box with a snowflake paper...what I like about this stamp is that by changing the paper or ink color, you can use it for different occasions (not just Christmas):

I'll take you on another side trip (I told you this post was a mish mash). See the little "to, from"? That's a stamp that you can also use with my Christmas tree stamp:

ok...now back to the coffee mug!! I made a few different inserts that you can interchange for the different seasons...you just unscrew the bottom and slip your decorated paper in. It's a tight squeeze (especially if you use a couple of layered pieces like me)...but once you get it in there, it's pretty darn cute!!

Here's a better view of the 3 inserts (without the glare of the plastic):

And now for a couple of cards:

Our giveaway for today:

To enter the drawing to win these stamps, leave me a comment by midnight (Hawaii time) on Thursday, September 9...tell me what kind of stamps you'd like to see more of. I'll pick one winner at random and announce their name on Friday, September 10. Oh yeah...I'll throw in the coffee mug too!!! Good luck!!

Little Monsters

2010-09-05T20:50:00.003-10:00

Before I introduce my "little monster" set of stamps, I wanted to announce that BRENDA is the winner of our last giveaway!!! ok, Brenda...email your address to me and I'll get the stamps to you!!! Congratulations!!!

Now for the project of the day...I used my new Little Monster stamp to decorate a gift bag:

To attach a handle, punch a 1/8" hole through the side of the bag and a paper flower...glue the flower onto the bag (matching up the holes)...Slip a piece of ribbon through both holes and tie a knot to hold it in place:

And here's a card:

And now for today's giveaway:

To win these stamps, leave me a comment by midnight (Hawaii time) on Tuesday, September 7...I'll pick one winner at random and I'll announce their name on Wednesday, September 8. Sorry for such a short post tonight...I finished this project just in the nick of time!! Phew!! Have a good night!!

Another Candy Bar Box

2010-09-02T18:05:00.003-10:00

Hello!! I always take a lot longer to finish up a project than I think I will...but, I finally finished my project for today...and here it is:

It's a candy bar box...I don't know if you can see the pink brad in the upper right had corner...but, that allows the cover to lift off like this:

Did you notice that I used my new peppermint stamp to replace the wheels on the wagon? Makes it look more Christmas-y!!

Here's one more:

Click here for a pattern. Cut along the solid lines and fold along the dotted lines. Punch holes (as indicated on the pattern) with a 1/8" hole punch.

Here's a view from the side, with the cover fit over the base:

Lift the cover into the position shown below to attach the brads (one in front and one in the back).

Then, just slip your candy bar in and decorate!!! And now for the giveaway:

To enter the giveaway...leave me a comment by midnight (Hawaii time) on Saturday, September 4...I'll pick one winner at random and announce their name on Sunday, September 5. Good luck!!!

Jenny V...

2010-09-01T14:16:00.002-10:00

you're the winner of our latest giveaway!!! Congratulations, Jenny!!! Email your address to me and I'll get your stamps out to you!!! Thank you to everyone who left a comment...I loved reading all your suggestions for a name for my new dog stamp!!! I decided to go with Judy jhj24's suggestion of "Little Rascal"...soooo, Judy, I'll send you a "Little Rascal" stamp....email me your address, please!! (Sometimes it pays to answer my silly questions!!! :)

I'll be back tomorrow with another project...have a great night!!!

Easy Peasy Packaging

2010-08-30T14:11:00.006-10:00

ETA: oops!! How could I forget to announce the winner of our last giveaway?....It's Saskia!!! Email me your address, Saskia...and I'll get your stamps to you!!!!

Ready for more new designs? Today's project features my Fuzzy Dog with a Wreath stamp (we really should come up with a name for him!!) . And the project is a really simple and fast gift wrap. I don't know how many times I've frantically searched for a box to wrap last minute gift (I KNOW I have one somewhere in this closet?!?!) When I can't find one, I usually improvise with something like this (actually, this first one is a gift card...I'll show you a gift wrap for a small gift later in this post):

To start, I cut a 4" x 7" piece of card stock...I placed my gift card a little lower than center and put a little mark just above and just below the card. I ran the paper through a crimper from each mark toward the edge of the paper(just a little bit)...it should look like the picture below:

This crimped section will act as the "hinge" for the wrap. Next, apply double stick tape to all 4 sides of center area:

Cut 2 pieces of tissue to 5-1/2" x 5-1/2"...attach as shown in the following pictures:

Wrap the gift card in one layer of tissue:

And then the other...hold it closed with a stamped seal:

Then I just wrapped a strip of paper around the whole thing to keep it shut. Now, here's the gift:

I don't know if you can tell...but, this holds a 6 month onesie, and the paper is cut to 5" x 12". Follow the same instructions as for the gift card (this time I'm holding it closed with a ribbon).

This stamp, "Expecting" was inspired by Yuki who's expecting her second baby in October...Congratulations and hang in there, Yuki!!!

Here are the stamps I'm giving away today:

Leave me a comment by midnight (Hawaii time) on Tuesday, August 31...give me some ideas of what to name my new fuzzy dog!!! I'll pick one winner at random and announce their name on Wednesday, September 1. Good luck!!!

Easel Box

2010-08-28T13:11:00.003-10:00

Hi!! I'm back with my next project!! I love the easel cards I've been seeing around...thought I'd give it a try as a box. Click here for the pattern. Cut along the solid lines and fold along the dotted lines. Apply double stick tape on the 4 tabs. Below is a picture of the box closed (tied shut with a ribbon):

And here's a picture of the box opened:

This side view shows how the easel part works:

Of course, I had to do one for the holidays:

If you look closely, you can see where I've been having fun with Flower Soft (to make the stocking look fluffy). I wonder if it comes in brown...that might work well on the bear!!

I can imagine handing these out at the office for your co-workers to keep on their desks!!! Are you starting to get your holiday mojo? This next card is a little departure from the easel boxes, but I threw it in today because I was playing around with my "chick" stamps and wanted to share it. The only new stamps are the chick carrying the candy cane and the "Friend for all seasons" stamp...the rest are from previous releases. When I was designing my holiday line, I noticed that I had a chick stamp for every season but winter. Then I thought..."friend for all seasons" and knew I had to do a winter chick!! Here's the card:

Here's the giveaway for today (I know the 3 chick stamps are not new...but, how could I break up the set???):

To win these stamps, leave me a comment by midnight (Hawaii time) on Sunday, August 29...tell me a little about your "friend for all seasons". I'll pick one winner at random and announce their name on Monday, August 30.

Joy, You're the Winner!!!

2010-08-27T08:57:00.002-10:00

Congratulations, Joy!!! Email me your address and I'll get the 3 face stamps out to you!!! I'm working on another project...but, I'm not sure if I can finish by today...we'll see how that goes!!

By the way...did you notice I'm on Facebook now? Please be patient while I learn the ropes...but, if you become a fan by September 15, I'll do a special giveaway for one lucky winner. I'll post more details later on my page.

Have a great Aloha Friday!!!

Today's Winner is....

2010-08-25T11:17:00.003-10:00

Debbie!!! Congratulations, Debbie!!! You know the routine...email your address to me and I'll send the stamps out to you!!! Debbie's comment said that she had ZERO stamps...WHA-T?? Well..I'm honored that Dandelion will be your first stamps, Debbie!!!

Now, on to today's project. From your comments, it seems like most of you are at least starting to think about the upcoming holidays. With that in mind...here are more ideas for the holidays:

Oh...before I begin...let me share the inspiration behind this project. Everyday when I run my errands, I pass by a house that's surrounded by a fence. Just over the fence, I can catch a glimpse of the backyard with a big mango tree...from the tree, they have a bunch of paper lanterns hanging here and there, at different levels. I don't know why, but it always makes me feel happy to see that. Anyway, here's my attempt to re-create those lanterns using 3 of my new "face" stamps for the holidays:

Can you imagine a bunch of these hanging on your trees leading the trick-or-treaters up to your front door?

Or some of these decorating your home or Christmas tree?

Or some of these as a centerpiece for your Thanksgiving meal?

They're so easy and fast to make!! I picked up the battery-operated candles at Ben Franklin (put a strip of double stick tape around the base of the candle (as shown below):

Cut a piece of vellum (I'm on a vellum kick!!) to 4-3/4" x 3-1/2" (of course, you can change the second number to vary the height of your "lantern"). I don't know if you can see it, but there's also a piece of double stick tape down the length (left side in photo, above) of the backside of the paper. Simply wrap the vellum around the candle (PLEASE, don't use real candles!!) and tape the 2 edges together in the back.

A few extra notes: When working with vellum, I stamp with Staz-On permanent ink and color the image from the backside of the paper. For the turkey candle, I used a handmade mulberry paper instead of vellum. To get the torn appearance at the top of the candle...I simply wet the top edge of the paper (i just put a little line of water with my fingers)...then carefully tear off the edge.

Here's today's giveaway:

To enter the drawing for these stamps, leave me a comment by midnight (Hawaii time) on Thursday, August 26...tell me something that gives you inspiration when you're creating. I'll pick one winner at random and announce their name on Friday, August 27.

Before I go, I wanted to share some goodies I got in the mail from Carole:

Aren't they too cute? She's already used some of my new stamps!!! (I'll be using that Fuzzy Bear in an upcoming project). Can you believe that she created all 3 projects from one sheet of 12 x 12 paper?? Thanks for sharing your creativity, Carole!!!

Have a great Wednesday!!!

2nd Half

2010-08-23T14:30:00.004-10:00

If you're checking back to see the second half of my post from yesterday....here it is:

A Halloween version of the Christmas favor from yesterday. The directions for these little candy pouches are in the post below. Here's a closer look at this Halloween treat:

Before we do the giveaway for today...I just wanted to thank everyone who left a comment about the "stars" they were reaching for...I hope each and everyone of you reaches that star!!!

ok...here's today's giveaway:

To enter, please leave a comment by midnight (Hawaii time) on Tuesday, August 24...tell me if you've started prepping for the holidays...are just thinking about it...or you want to sock me for even bringing it up!! (ha! ha!...please don't). I'll pick one winner at random and announce their name on Wednesday August 25. Good luck!!!

Oh...one extra note: if you've already left me a comment on yesterday's post...you don't have to re-enter...I'll just add your names in the drawing.

Half a Post is Better Than None?

2010-08-22T23:40:00.003-10:00

Made it just in the nick of time!!! I had every intention of getting this post up earlier today...but, sometimes things just don't go as planned. Oh well... Here is what I finished (I'll share the other half of my post tomorrow):

I made these little candy pouches out of vellum (cut to 3-1/2" x 7"). Then I put 3 strips of double stick tape as shown in the photo below:

Form a "tube" and adhere...close one end, fill with candy, then close the other end. Use a paper crimper to finish off the two ends. Here's a closer look at the topper:

ok...I'll be back tomorrow with more samples and a giveaway!!!

Today's Winner!!

2010-08-21T09:54:00.002-10:00

Just popping in today to announce the winner of our latest giveaway...it's MC!!! Congratulations MC!!! Send your address to me at dandelion.designs@hawaiiantel.net, and I'll get your stamps out to you!!! Check back tomorrow for my next project!!!

Good Morning!!!

2010-08-19T09:34:00.003-10:00

Hope you're all having a great Thursday morning!! If you're checking back to see who won our giveaway...the winner for today is Tammy!!!!!! Congratulations, Tammy!!! Please email me at dandelion.designs@hawaiiantel.net with your address and I'll mail the stamps to you pronto!!!

For the rest of you...stick around...there are more stamps to be won!!

Today's new stamp is featuring Buddy, the monkey. Whenever I can I like to create stamps that can be used for the holidays, but also throughout the rest of the year. That was the thought behind this stamp called, Buddy's Star. In the photo below I made a shadow box/gift card holder/ornament of Buddy putting a star at the top of the Christmas tree:

*Note: The other stamp in this project is from a previous release...it's called Christmas Lights (#A112).

And...below, using the same Buddy stamp, I made a card that could be used for graduations, promotions, etc.:

Pretty versatile, huh?

Here are the details for making the gift card/ornament. Real easy!! Cut a piece of cardstock to 3" x 12". Score at 3", 3-1/2", 6-1/2" and 7". Punch out a hole and apply double stick tape, as shown below:

Fold along the scored lines...remove the backing from the double stick tape and attach. The space between the two strips of double stick tape forms the pocket for the gift card (behind the shadow box). It literally takes just a few minutes to put together. How great would that be to get a whole bunch of gift card gifts taken care of in August???

Here's the giveaway for today:

To enter the drawing...leave me a comment by midnight (Hawaii time) on Friday, August 20...tell me what "star" you're reaching for right now. For me, like many of you...it's helping my son get into a great college!!! I'll draw one winner at random and announce their name on Saturday, August 21. Good luck!!!

Here We Go...

2010-08-17T09:36:00.002-10:00

Welcome to Day 1 of our new designs...we'll start off with a little project using food storage bags. Who knew that wrapping up your leftover dinner could lead to a new project?

They're not air tight, but I thought it was cool to use the sliding mechanism from these plastic bags to create some useful bags. Here's one made into a pen case (to carry to stamping dates, or to give as a gift):

And another made into a Halloween treat:

To make this project, I cut off just the top of the plastic bag. I put double stick tape on both sides of the plastic bag (you'll have to play with the slider to get the double stick tape underneath it...see photo, below).

Click here for a pattern. I'm using a quart-sized plastic bag for this project...and the pattern is for a bag with a finished size of 8-1/4" x 3"...of course, you can adjust the pattern to make the bag deeper or shallower. Cut along the solid lines and fold along the dotted ones...use double stick tape on the two tabs to put the paper part of the bag together. Then simply remove the backing paper from the double stick tape on the plastic bag (one side at a time), and adhere to the paper bag. You'll have to fiddle around with the slider again to get the paper under the slider.

And now for the giveaway...here's what's up for grabs:

Leave me a comment by midnight (Hawaii time) tomorrow, Wed. August 18...help me catch up on what you've been up to...tell me the highlight of your summer. I'll pick one winner at random and announce their name on Thursday, August 19.

Oh...one more thing. I've been meaning to share with you some cute projects done by Karen on her blog, Have a Scrap Happy Day using Dandelion stamps!!! So cute...thanks for sharing your work, Karen!!!

New Designs

2010-08-16T16:57:00.002-10:00

Hi All!!! Sorry that I've been MIA all summer...I just don't know where all the time went!! Really!!! But, now I'm finally ready to share my new designs with you...a little bit of Christmas...little bit of Halloween and Thanksgiving...and a little bit of everyday!!

This is just a sampling of the new designs...you can click on the link to our website to see the whole collection...OR...check in over the next few weeks as I introduce the new designs, along with new ideas for the upcoming holidays!! We'll start off tomorrow...until then, have a great night!!!

Where Did June Go?

2010-07-09T17:11:00.002-10:00

Sorry for being such a bad blogger lately...I really don't know what happened to the month of June...and July is already well on its way!! The good news is that I have been busy working on my holiday stamps!! They're not ready quite yet...but, they're coming soon!!!

Today I have a project for those of you who, like me, never seem to have paper in their purse. I'm constantly writing on the back of my electric bill envelope, a napkin or sales receipt. I found these flower-shaped post-it notes when I was out buying ink for my printer the other day...and made a little holder for it:

I used a clear acetate cover so that the cute post-it note is part of the design. Here's one more:

Click here for a pattern. There are 2 pattern pieces...cut the larger piece out of card stock and the smaller one out of acetate...fold along dotted lines and place double stick tape on the 3 tabs of the card stock piece. Cut a 3/8" x 5" piece of card stock to make a pen loop ( I cut a piece of acetate to the same size and glued the 2 pieces together to make the pen loop more durable). Wrap the loop around the pen (as shown below) ...make sure you leave enough room so you can take the pen in and out easily. Then put double stick tape on both sides of the pen loop and stick it to the card stock piece:

Remove all the backings from the double stick tapes and attach the acetate cover (as shown below). Now add one more strip of double stick tape (also shown below). Are you still with me? Now, fold the bottom flap up to conceal all the tabs. Use double stick tape one more time to attach the post-it note pad to the holder, and decorate the cover.

Now I'll have paper and a pen right there when I need it!!! Hope you all have a great weekend!!!

Click, Snip and Slip

2010-06-08T18:58:00.004-10:00

In a hurry to give a gift card?

CLICK here for a pattern. SNIP out pocket pattern (cut on solid lines, fold along dotted lines, use double stick tape along tabs)...tape gift card to a 2-3/8" x 3-3/4" piece of card stock and SLIP into pocket. Done!! :)

A Little Birdie...

2010-06-03T12:31:00.003-10:00

Just popping in to share this card:

Pink and blue...one of my favorite color combos these days!! Makes me feel happy!!! Hope you have a pink and blue kinda day!!!

Clear Pockets

2010-06-02T14:32:00.004-10:00

My how time flies!!! I can't believe the school year is over and summer is already on its way!!! Speaking of summer, I have a couple of ideas today for the June holidays...the first one is for the graduate:

Just a simple gift card holder...untie the ribbon and the card opens up to reveal a gift card in a clear pocket:

With a couple of minor adjustments...here's a little treat holder for Father's Day:

Here's the inside (using the "fun size" candy bars):

To get the patterns for both of these projects, click here. Cut along the solid lines and fold along the dotted lines. Use double stick tape to adhere a piece of acetate to the back of the pocket piece:

For the gift card holder: Cut card stock to 4" x 5"...score at 2-1/2".

For candy holder: Cut card stock to 4" x 4-3/8"...score at 2" and 2-3/8".

Attach the pocket to the bottom, inside edge of the card...and you're done!! Thanks for stopping by today!!

Playing With Color

2010-05-20T11:36:00.002-10:00

Sometimes when I'm making cards, I like to decide on the color group I'm going to use before I start. That forces me to get out of my comfort zone and choose colors that I might not ordinarily choose to color in my images. Here are some cards I played with today using orange/yellow, blue/green and pink/purple:

Stamps used: #5032 (Solid Flower1), #A105 (It's Your Birthday), #A134 (Gifts) and #B119 (Buddy's Gift)

Stamps used: #B106 (Little Something), #B144 (Little Wagon) and #C138 (Little Garden).

Stamps used: #A117 (Always), #B104 (Flower Border) and #B118 (Hoot & Annie). If you've noticed...I hardly ever make standard sized cards. I just make envelopes to fit my card:

Thanks for stopping by!!

You're Sweet!!

2010-05-17T16:49:00.003-10:00

A sweet and simple idea for the sweet "someones" in your life:

The "insides" are candies wrapped in vellum and tied with ribbons...wrap a piece of cardstock around the candy and decorate.

Stamps used: #5059 (You're Sweet), #A132 (Sweetpea) and #C133 (Rosebud Heart) . Have a great night!!

To All Moms...

2010-05-08T21:18:00.003-10:00

Easy as 1,2,3

2010-05-06T17:30:00.005-10:00

I was passing through a gift shop yesterday, and saw a packet of cleverly wrapped bath salts. I got home and adapted the idea for a favor...click here to get a pattern.

It's perfect for a "flat" favor (like the Ghirardelli chocolate I used below, or maybe some tea bags)...or a small gift. Cut out the pattern and fold along the dotted lines. Place your item into the cut-out piece, as shown below:

Then with just a few folds...One:

Two:

Three:

Flip over, fold and tuck flap into slot:

I cut out contrasting papers to fit the different flaps, and glued them on to decorate (I used a Martha Stewart border punch that I got from J's Knicknacks...it adds just the right touch!!):

Here's an idea for graduation:

Before I go, here's an adorable Mother's Day card I received from Diane:

It's a four panel, pocketed card with a different tag in each pocket!!! Those of you who make cards know how much work and care went into making this!!! Thanks, Diane!!!!

Hope you all have a great evening!!!

4 Days and Counting

2010-05-05T09:34:00.003-10:00

You still have a few more days til Mother's Day...are you ready? If not...maybe this will help:

A cute way to wrap up a little gift for mom!! Here's the how to:

Start by cutting out your colored image and gluing it onto a punched shape. Use a 1/16" hole punch at each spot where you want to place a flower (punch 2 holes for flowers that will have more than 1 bead in the center). Thread a needle and tape the end of the thread to the back of the heart. Place the heart into the bag and insert needle through one of the punched holes...then through the bag, flower, bead...then back down again. For flowers with more than 1 bead...always come up through one punched hole and down through the other. See picture below:

When you're done...tape the end of the string to the back of the heart. Punch one more heart and glue it to the back of the first heart to cover all your strings and tape. The trickiest part of this project is trying to work in the limited space inside the bag!!! I was happy with the way it turned out, so I decided to make a matching card:

If you change the sentiment, you now have a baby card:

Stamps used: #A116 (Baby Girl), #A144 (Mother's Day) and #C140 (A Mother's Love).

Have a great day...and Happy Boy's Day to all the little guys out there!!!

Clear Tote

2010-05-04T13:05:00.005-10:00

Hi All!! Trying to get in a few more last minute ideas for Mother's Day...sometimes just a "little something" can add that special touch to your celebration!! Maybe this could be that "something":

I always have a really hard time capturing lavenders/purples in a photo...it always seems to come out a little too blue...anyway, click here to get a template for the base piece.

For the base, cut along the solid lines and fold along the dotted lines. Use double stick tape on the four tabs and fold into the base, as shown above (left). Once the base is completed...apply double stick tape to the inside edge of the 2 long sides of the base.

For the clear part of the tote, cut a 3" x 6-1/4" piece of acetate. Score at 1", 3", 4" and 6"...fold along these scored lines. Apply 1/4" double stick tape, as shown above...and adhere. Adhere the clear acetate into the base.

For the handles...I punched 2 holes with a 1/8" hole punch, then cut 2 pieces of 13" ribbon and threaded it ala Cinnamon Girl (a local dress shop). Thread the ribbon (as shown above) and tie a bow on the outside. Do the same thing for the other handle. Here's a shot of the totes empty:

To add the flowers...I used tacky glue on the stem and rolled the paw around it. The white, back side of the paper will now be showing...just color that part in to match the rest of the stamped image. Here's a close-up of the tag:

Stamps used: #1301 (Mom's Day), #B138 (Walking Ping), #C134 (Sitting Quincy) and #C135 (Sitting Pong).

Thanks for stopping by...hope your day is going well!!

Clownin'Around

2010-05-03T11:11:00.004-10:00

"Mix a little foolishness with your serious plans; it's lovely to be silly at the right moment"
~Horace

Stamps used: #933 (Funky Snowflake), #A135 (Clownin' Around) and #B130 (Buddy the Clown).

Video Cards

2010-05-02T14:22:00.006-10:00

For today's project, there are no actual videos involved...it just looks like a VHS tape!! This idea came almost by accident...I was just trying to think of a way to present the gift/card inside (wouldn't it be cute to put a special message on the side of the "tape"?):

To get a pattern to make this VHS box, click here. **(Just a little extra note: This pattern came out very close to the edge of the paper...when you're printing this pattern out, make sure you select "No Scaling" or your printer may automatically shrink the pattern to fit the page.)** I also used a 1" hole punch to make that half circle in the box. For the card, I used a 6" x 7-3/4" piece of cardstock (scored at 3-1/2" and 4-1/4"). Decorate the outside of the card with your sentiment (this one is for Boy's Day):

For the inside, I used three 2" x 3" cellophane bags (I got mine at Ben Franklin)...and filled them with goodies. I attached each bag with a couple of glue dots on the back.

Here's one for Mother's Day:

Fill your bags up with whatever tiny treasures you want:

That's it for now...Have a great week everyone!!!

Boy's Day

2010-05-01T16:24:00.002-10:00

Boy's Day is coming up fast...it's already this Wednesday, March 5. My "boy" is getting too old for such things, but for those of you with little ones...I have a couple of ideas for you. The first one is a card using stamps #A139 (Happy Boy's Day), #B147 (Koi) and #C137 (Boy's Day):

Next is a simple, quick, inexpensive (all our favorites!!!) idea for those of you who have to make a bunch of boy's day goodies...just tie a koi (stamp #B147) to a pixie stick (or pencil):

Mother's Day is coming right behind...I'll be working on some projects this weekend...be sure to check back!!!

Flower Soft Leis

2010-04-30T14:04:00.005-10:00

Happy Aloha Friday!!! I stopped by the Market City Ben Franklin the other day and Jenny introduced me to Flower Soft. I've seen it used before on other blogs, but this was the first time I came face to face with the product...and, what fun!!! There's a special glue (with a super fine tip to fit the smallest spaces)...all you have to do is squeeze the glue wherever you want to decorate, then sprinkle on the Flower Soft. Easy!!! They had some samples using the mixed colored Flower Soft for leis...perfect for graduation!!! I tried applying the glue to a piece of thread, to give it a more 3-D appearance:

Use stamps #1403 (Graduation Cap) and #1404 (Mini Graduation Cap) to turn any everyday stamp into a graduation stamp. Here's a close-up of #C117 (Elliot):

Oh yeah...this card is actually a money card...also very easy!! Start with a 3-1/2" x 7" piece of card stock for the base card...score at 3-1/2" and fold the card in half. Cut 2 pieces of 7" ribbon and tape to card as shown below:

Cut another coordinating piece of card stock to 3-1/4" x 7-1/2". Score at 3-3/4" to form centerfold...also score 1/4" away from the bottom and 2 sides. Fold along the scored lines and cut away the bottom corners, as shown below:

Apply double stick tape to the 3 tabs and attach to the card, as shown:

Here are a few more "graduates" (I'll use them in future projects):

I used a 1/16" hole punch at the places where I wanted the lei to "end". Thread the ends of the lei through these holes and tape down in the back. The Flower Soft actually covers up the punched holes.

Thanks for stopping by and have a great weekend!!!

Candy Bar Card

2010-04-20T18:09:00.004-10:00

Yesterday I promised I would turn my card idea into a favor...and with a few tweaks, this is what I came up with:

Pull the ribbons apart to reveal a candy bar and message:

Click here to get a simple template. You can start with your favorite Hershey-sized candy bar. I folded and taped the 2 end flaps of the candy bar upwards (to keep it out of the way of the sliding parts):

Below is a picture of the 3 pieces...the main piece and 2 sliding pieces. Cut along the solid lines and fold along the dotted lines. Apply double stick tape to the 2 ends of the main piece...and to one edge of each of the sliding pieces:

Insert your candy bar into the main piece and tape down one side as shown:

Tape down the 2 sliding pieces, as shown above.

Slide the 2 blue pieces over the candy bar, and push all the way to the left.

Remove the double stick tape and adhere the right flap to the candy bar.

Move the 2 sliding pieces to the center of the bar and decorate. Pretty simple!! While I was at it, I made one for graduation:

It was so warm today, I had to keep sticking my chocolate back into the refrigerator because it kept melting...is summer already on its way?

Hello....

2010-04-19T14:17:00.009-10:00

Can't believe a month has flown by so quickly...I have a lot to catch up on, so let's get started!!! Here's my card for today:

Pull the ribbons apart to reveal a message:

I hope I can explain this all clearly...here goes:

The main card piece is shown at the top of the photo (above)...it measures 2-3/8" x 12"...score at 3" and 8-1/2". Apply double stick tape to the edge of the shorter (left) flap...and the bottom (pink side) of the longer (right) flap (don't tape together yet :).

The two sliding pieces are also shown in the photo above. Cut them both to 2" x 6"...score at 1-1/2" and 4". Fold along the scored lines and secure with double stick tape.

Flip the 2 sliding pieces over and staple a 4" piece of ribbon to each slider (as shown above).

You'll also need two heart shaped pieces...I used a Marvy scalloped heart (pink) punch. Stamp the sentiment in one. Cut the other heart in half and mount (with a pop dot) stamp #C134 (Sitting Quincy) and #C135 (Sitting Pong) to each half of the heart.

Using more pop dots, mount each half of the heart along the inner edge of the 2 slider pieces.

Slide the left half of the heart over the left flap of the card...and the right half of the heart over the right flap of the card. Slide each slider as far as it will go. Then remove the double stick tape on both flaps...lay the flaps, right over left, and secure the double stick tape:

Pull the two sliders apart and glue down your sentiment in the middle:

I finished off the card with some flowers to cover the staples...see the first photo. I have an idea to turn this card into a favor...check back tomorrow...we'll see if it works out!!!

I also wanted to share this cutie-pie card made by Cathy Y...ooohh, so sweet!!!

And I know this next one is super late...but, here's an Easter card from the talented Lianne (Cute Stuff). Oh well...maybe you can get a jump on ideas for next year!!! She cut apart stamp #B144 (Little Wagon) to make a cute little Easter "train"!!! So clever!!!

And check out these two sites with Dandelion Designs projects:

Pieces of Me (Jen)

Beth-a-Palooza (Beth)

Cute, cute, cute...thanks Jen and Beth for more fun ideas!!! So many project, so little time!!! Well...I guess that gets me caught up for now!!! Phew!! See ya!!!

Our Final Winner Is....

2010-03-17T18:06:00.000-10:00

Cori T.!!! Congrats, Cori!!! Please send me an email with your address and I'll send the stamps out to you. Thank you to everyone who played along with my new release...hope you had fun seeing all the new designs!!!

I'll be taking a blog break for awhile...check back in a few weeks...until then...Happy Stamping!!!

One Last Giveaway

2010-03-16T07:30:00.004-10:00

The winner of our last giveaway is....Tammy (mst822)!!!!!!! Congratulations, Tammy!!!!!! Send me an email with your address and I'll get the stamps out to you!!! Now...on to my final giveaway...

Whenever I do make 'n takes, I keep hearing that people want simple projects. I guess with all our busy lives, simple is good!!! So, I think these 2 new stamps make things as simple as possible!!! Of course, you can do this project on any pre-made box or bag (to make it even simpler!!). But, you can also get a pattern for this bunny box or chick box here.

Here's another idea using these stamps for gift tags...it literally takes just minutes to make:

One last card for Father's Day...I don't usually make "guy" cards...but, here's what I came up with:

And here are the stamps I'm giving away today:

Leave me a comment by midnight tonight (March 16) to enter the drawing...I'll pick one winner at random and announce their name on Wednesday, March 17. Have a great day!!!

I Have A Good Excuse...

2010-03-14T10:00:00.003-10:00

Sorry for being late in posting the second half of my next giveaway...I really don't have a great excuse for being late (heh heh!)...just ran out of time yesterday!! Anyway, on to more new stamps...

This is my new Boy's Day stamp and sentiment. Boy's Day is on May 5, so you still have some time to get going. Here's a pattern for making this "kimono" gift card. Just cut along the solid lines and fold along the dotted lines. Apply double stick tape to one tab on the bottom. I also added some contrasting printed paper to the two card flaps:

First, fold the right flap (as shown above)...then fold the left flap over....slip the tab around the first flap and adhere to the inside back of the card (this will make the pocket for your gift card). Wrap a 3/4" strip of paper around the card and finish off with a cord (tied in a bow)...this is the obi (belt).

Next, I have some graduation stamps...ahhhh....can you remember the feeling of having that diploma in your hand?

Here are the stamps I'm giving away today:

To enter, leave me a comment by midnight tomorrow (Monday, 3/15)...give a shout out to your alma mater!! I'll pick one winner at random and announce their name on Tuesday, March 16. Good luck!!

Smooshed!!

2010-03-12T17:29:00.003-10:00

It's Friday!!! Hope you all had a great week...I'm stopping in to announce the winner of our Mother's Day/Teacher stamp giveaway...it's Cathy Y.!!! Cathy, please email me your address and I'll send your stamps out to you!!!

I didn't quite get around to today's giveaway...well...I did part of it, so I'll share part with you today and part tomorrow. If you're wondering about my title...I was rushing around today and bought 2 cupcakes for my Boy's Day project. I braked a little too hard at one light and I saw my cupcake bag topple off the front seat. Ugh!!! Landing totally upside down!!! Oh well...don't laugh...I tried to angle the less "smooshed" side toward the camera (imagine what the other side looks like!! lol!!) Anyway, you get the idea.

I used stamp #B147 (Koi) in green, red and blue. I cut them out with a 1-1/2" tab like this:

I used double stick tape on each tab to stick them onto this candle (that I found in the baking aisle at Safeway). ok...For a chance to win this stamp and others, check back tomorrow!!! See you then!!