Kween Bee Kreations

Sneak Peeks are HERE!

My pre-order arrived at 5:30 p.m. yesterday.  Despite my efforts to stalk my front door looking out for the "man in brown"... my package took all day to arrive.  It was my day off too, so it was a long one waiting, hoping, and anticipating the arrival of my Stampin' Up! order.

BUT, the goodies are finally HERE! and I get to share my samples with you.

Today, I have two Kreations to share with you.  The first one is using the new "Sock Monkey" release.

This is the set that I couldn't wait to ink up.  Using the new Holiday Happenings Designer Series Paper (DSP), I drew inspiration from the colors in the floral pattern.  The card base is done in one the new In Colors, Baja Breeze.  I cut out two circles using my Fiskars circle template in Kiwi Kiss and Pink Pirouette (also new In Colors). 

I paper pieced the Sock Monkey's "outfit". Rather than sticking with the traditional brown and red Sock Monkey, I chose to use some DSP and Baja Breeze textured cardstock.  He is holding a flower from another new stamp set called Seasonal Icons.  I stamped the image twice - once in Kiwi Kiss and the second time in Baja Breeze.  Then I punched the flowers center using a 1" circle punch and popped it up on dimensionals.  The sentiment is from the "Sock Monkey" collection and is stamped using a stamp-a-ma-jig onto a Pink Pirouette heart from the "Seasonal Icons" set. 

My second Kreation was made using the new release "Dreams du Jour".  I wanted to showcase a few of the new In Colors on this card.  I used (from left to right) Pacific Point, Tangerine Tango, and Kiwi Kiss. 

Something you may notice too is the scalloped edge.  I used the new scallop border punch to create my edges and I have to say ... this will be much easier than trying to use a corner rounder punch to create a stylish edge.  SO glad I bought this new tool!  I finished the card off with some blingy rhinestones to add some sparkle. 

COMING SOON:  More, more, more sneak peeks. 

So, keep reading to see the latest.  You can subscribe to my blog to keep up on the daily Buzz.  Simply scroll down and enter your email address (right sidebar) and click subscribe. 
 

Inspiration ...

If you haven't heard the Buzz ... Be sure to read this post for the BIG announcement and Hodgepodge Hardware promotion from Stampin' Up! and visit this page for a few Kween Bee Kreations exclusive promotions (limited time only).

Yesterday was my 34th Birthday and I spent time with my family.  Thus the reason for no post here.  But I did participate in the Saturday Inspiration Challenge (IC135) over at SCS.  I chose the switchplate covers (see photo below) as my inspiration from Mackintosh Enamels for my set of cards.  

I used a variety of stamp sets for this card collection.  All cards were inked using Versamark and then heat embossed with clear powder. 

The colored cardstock is mounted on the small notecards from Stampin' Up! and three silver brads are added to each card to tie them together as a collection. 

The Garden Green card is done in the "Priceless" stamp set.

The Pumpkin Pie card is done in the "Priceless" and "Fresh Cuts" stamp set.

The Night of Navy card is done in the "Fresh Cuts" stamp set.

The Summer Sun card is done in the "Time Well Spent" stamp set (current hostess level III)

Sneak Peeks are coming soon - I am eagerly awaiting my pre-order sets and cannot wait to share my samples with all of you!  (in the meantime, view this post for samples) I hope to intercept the UPS delivery tomorrow and pick my package up in the morning.  If all goes as planned, I will have new stamp set samples to share with you as early as Monday July 7th!!

Stay Tuned for the latest Buzz here at Kween Bee Kreations

Happy 4th of July!

Sneak Peeks

Be sure to scroll down and read the last two posts - BIG announcement and Hodgepodge Hardware promotion from Stampin' Up! and a few Kween Bee Kreations exclusive promotions. 

Well, I anticipate receiving my pre-order Fall/Winter Idea Book & Catalog and Hostess Stamp sets on Monday, July 7^th.  I can’t wait to get my hands on something new from Stampin’ Up!  AND I am very excited to share new projects with all of you!

In the meantime, I wanted to share some samples created by Stampin’ Up! using the new products.  Sit back – bite your nails – twiddle your thumbs – pace back & forth - do whatever you do when you're anxious - and enjoy the view.  But, be sure to keep watching my site to see my very own Kreations using these stamp sets.  (I do plan to post over the holiday weekend using current product as well).  More sneak peeks found here.

Fall/Winter Idea Book & Catalog Samples (click to enlarge)

Hostess Set Level II Samples (click to enlarge)

Hostess Set Level III Samples (click to enlarge)


What did I order ... you ask?

Product Names from the Fall-Winter Idea Book & Catalog pre-order:
Heard from the Heart(ordered)
WOW Flowers (should have ordered)
Sock Monkey (ordered)
Dreams du Jour (ordered)
Scallop Edge Punch (ordered)
Button Bouquet (ordered)
Flower Power Simply Sent Card Elements (not ordered)
Bella Rose Designer Series Paper (ordered)
In Color Classic Stampin’ Pads (ordered)
In Color Stampin’ Ink Refills (ordered)
In Color Card Stock (ordered)
In Color Textured Card Stock (ordered)

Product Names from the Hostess Sets pre-order:

Fall Flair – Hostess Level II (not ordered)
Deer Friends – Hostess Level II (ordered)
Occasions Collection – Hostess Level II (not ordered)
Serene Spring – Hostess Level II (not ordered)
Happiness Always – Hostess Level III (not ordered)
Window Dressing – Hostess Level III (not ordered)
Holiday Happenings Bundle, Seasonal Icons - Hostess Level III (ordered)

I have provided links to the Splitcoast galleries (if one exists) for each of these “Coming Soon” stamp sets.  Keep in mind that people are just now receiving their pre-orders so it may take a while to build the galleries. 

You do have to register to be a member of Splitcoast if you are not already signed up AND you must be logged in to view these galleries. 

E N J O Y!

COMING SOON:  Kreations using the above ordered new products

Let's Party!!

Stampin' Up! Announcement

Today’s Kreation was made for the SCS Color Challenge (CC173).

The challenge was to use Certainly Celery, Wild Wasabi & Purely Pomegranate (the latter two colors will retire with the new catalog).

Inspiration came from the pages of the current Paper Crafts Magazine.  The layout used multiple squares and many patterned papers. My choice for patterned paper came from the Hostess Level 1 printed paper pack (in Wild Wasabi).

I love Granny Smith apples so I chose to run with that idea and ink my "Tart & Tangy" apple stamp in Certainly Celery and Wild Wasabi.  I alternated the colors of the apples on the layout for a bit of contrast within the mostly monochromatic scheme.  Purely Pomegranate 1 3/8” circles peek out from beneath each Granny Smith.

As noted above, the current In Colors (along with many stamp sets) will be retiring with the release of the Fall-Winter Idea Book & Catalog (coming August 11 … I can’t wait!!).  So, I’m going to offer a Kween Bee Kreations exclusive Retirement Party promotion lasting until July 31, 2008.

Let’s Party!!  Purchase any retiring set from the current Spring-Summer Collection 2008 Catalog and get a 10% OFF coupon good towards any purchase from the upcoming Fall-Winter Idea Book & Catalog (released August 11).

• You can find lists of retiring sets on my blog along the right sidebar
• Coupon must be redeemed through Kween Bee Kreations

A retiring accessories list will be released later this month and you will get about a  week to apply the Retirement Party promotion to that as well. 

So, what are you waiting for?  Print out a wish list and get your hands on these sets before they are gone!  If you have any questions, please Contact Me. 

You can place your order here.

SUPER DUPER ANNOUCEMENT(S)!!

As a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator, I am provided many benefits.  Just one of the many benefits is getting sneak peek’s into the “Coming Soon” products.  Well, today is one of those days - I have seen what is coming soon for the Fall/Winter Idea Book & Catalog and you will not want to miss out!

I will be sharing samples here at Kween Bee Kreations, using new Stampin’ Up! products as soon as Mr. Man in Brown (UPS Driver) delivers it to my door (I am placing an expedited order today).  

STAY TUNED:  Keep on top of the action here at by subscribing to my blog.  Simply scroll down... on the right sidebar, you'll see a place to enter your e-mail address.  By doing so, you will receive updates in your inbox every time I post new content.  Not to worry - it's safe, your e-mail address will not be shared for any reason. 

And now {{{DRUM ROLL, PLEASE}}} for the first announcement - All new stamp sets in the upcoming Fall/Winter Idea Book & Catalog (released August 11) will be die cut!!  This means all you’ll need to do is punch them out, peel the adhesive off the back, and mount your stamp to the wooden block. 

How exciting is this?!?
I don’t know about you, but the die cut feature will save me tons of time and get me right into stamping when I receive a new set.
 
NOTE:  Only the new stamps will be die cut; sets carried over from the last catalog to the new catalog and those on the dormant list will still require trimming.  Each new set will feature a die cut icon so you have no problems identifying the die-cut sets.
 
Also announced today is a Hodgepodge Hardware (HH) Discount.  Valid dates on this promotion are July 1 – August 10 (or while supplies last).  **There is no minimum purchase requirement to receive the 25% discount. 

Click the photo (see left sidebar) of the Hodgepodge Hardware listed under Kurrent Promotions for more details.

DETAILS:

Item #	Page #	Description	Regular Price	Limited Time 25% OFF Discount
105532	188	Aged Copper	$27.95	$20.96
105531	188	Antique Brass	$27.95	$20.96
105515	188	Pewter	$27.95	$20.96

 

**Pieces shown at 50% of actual size

Each Hodgepodge Hardware kit contains an assortment of shaped clips, label holders, ribbon charms, buckles, fasteners, and photo anchors you can use on cards, scrapbook pages, and handmade books.  Included in each HH kit are approximately 138 pieces of hardware, plus 100 matching brads.

ACT NOW:  The Hodgepodge Hardware in Antique Finish, Aged Copper and Pewter will retire with the release of the Fall/Winter 2008 Stampin' Up! Idea Book & Catalog.  So, if you are a fan... I highly suggest you stock up now (especially considering the 25% OFF discount).

Place your order through Kween Bee Kreations today. 

One day left!

As I anxiously await the release of new Stampin' Up! products, I find myself playing with a new Gina K. Designs stamp set called Retro Boutique. 

So, for today, my Kreation is made with a non-Stampin' Up! stamp set. 

The base of this card is done in Regal Rose (Stampin' Up! cardstock) and you'll also notice the beautiful Regal Rose wide grograin ribbon and Pretty in Pink narrow grosgrain ribbon accents (both SU). 

The designer paper is from Basic Grey - and this collection is called Sultry.  Before I became a Stampin' Up! demonstrator, this was my number one paper I loved to hoard.  Basic Grey has fabulous designer papers, coordinating ribbon, etc... On this card, I used the paper Swell and Vogue. 

I only have a few more days to wait until I can gain a sneak peek into the new Stampin' Up! Fall/Winter Idea Book & Catalog.  While we sit on pins & needles for the catalog release (which is August 11), I will be sure to share with you all details I can regarding the new products. 

REMINDER:  Only one more day to take advantage of these promotions 

• Making the Fresh Cut
• eScape with Stampin' Up!
• Kween Bee Kreations exclusive promotions

Occasions Mini Collection - expires June 30th at 8 PM CST
(10% OFF any order through me)

A Breakdown & Blue for You

So, on the way home from work last night ... I'm driving my Kia (my husband & I detest this car) and am on country back roads.

All of a sudden all the dash lights go on and the car just stops working - out of no where.  I manage to pull over as far as I can, it's a busy road and there is barely any shoulder to park on. 

The Kia’s dead… just dead... and I have no idea what happened. 

My husband comes to pick me up with my son and step-son in tow.  Long story short, I wait at home an hour and ½ for AAA to tow my car and after I sit inside and steer the stupid thing up the tow truck ramp... I zoom off in my Subaru.

This is where the REAL breakdown begins.  I decide I am going to Gina K Designs in my town and I'm buying "something"… "anything" ... AND $70.00 later I have to say I did feel better.

I flaked and bought a Non SU stamp set - should I be thrown to the sharks? :) I purchased the Retro Boutique set all because I saw a super cute card on SCS using it. Didn't even realize it was Gina K. until I was at her store.  So, all because of this card posted by Suzanne Dean(suzannejdean on SCS), I had a breakdown.  Check out her blog here Scrap Bitz. 

Thank You Suzanne for the inspiration during my retail therapy session.

During the “breakdown” I also bought 6 pads of 6x6 Basic Grey paper of which I have no doubt I will hoard - just like the 6-10 other Basic Grey 12x12 collections I already own!

Very rarely do I spend money on myself.  But last night I felt like I deserved it and wanted something new that was stamp related and wanted it now!

The end of my story:  I got home, put my son Devlin to bed, and completed the Sketch Challenge (SC182) and Ways to Use It Challenge (WT172) using some of my Basic Grey paper.

I title the Kreation for today “Red, White & Blue for You” because my son is always missing Grandma, so I wanted to make a card that he can hand deliver to her.  (And I wanted to do a patriotic color scheme for the upcoming holiday) 

Card details:  Boxer Basic Grey patterned paper, specifically Buckle and Vintage Tee .  Stamp sets used: “Fun & Fast Notes” and the hostess level 1 set “For a Friend”.  I modified the images using my Stampin’ Write markers to isolate the images I wanted to use.  Here you can see what each stamp looks like before the modification.  The itty bitty heart (see card above) was stamped onto the Vintage Tee paper, trimmed, and glued down to coordinate with the background.

 

Stampin’ Write markers used:  Ruby Red and Night of Navy.  I added some big blinging rhinestones to add sparkle and the card was complete. 

COMING SOON:  1 day/week dedicated to non Stampin' Up! Kreations

Wild Fruit

Green fruit!?  You’ve heard of green apples and limes, but how about green strawberries?  Are they moldy?  The answer is no… they are Versamarked.

Today’s Kreation was made for the Color Challenge (CC172) to use Taken With Teal, Wild Wasabi, and Whisper White. 

I wanted to create a Kwik & Kool card for this challenge and did so by using Versamark on my “Tart & Tangy” images, then heat embossed with clear powder. 

I punched each image out using my 1 1/4” circle punch, then punched a Whisper White circle using my 1 3/8” circle punch to mount each fruit.

I spun the bottom of the card through my Cuttlebug using the Swiss Dots embossing folder, added a bit of Wild Wasabi designer print paper (hostess level 1 gift), and finally tied off a strip of Whisper White narrow grosgrain ribbon.  The sentiment from “Short & Sweet” is punched out using the word window punch and inked in Taken With Teal.

GENTLE REMINDERS:

• Current Stampin’ Up! Promotions ending soon – See the left sidebar for more information
• Exclusive KBK Promotions ending soon
• Occasions Mini Collection – expires June 30, 2008

I've been tagged, TWICE!

Below you’ll find my Kreation for today – so be sure to scroll down.

My Aunt Mary (AKA Stampin’ Pretty) has double tagged me!!  So, here are the rules of the game and my answers.

The rules of the game:  Each player answers questions about themselves. At the end of the post, the player then tags 5 people and posts their names, then goes to their blogs and leaves them a comment, letting them know they’ve been tagged and asking them to read your blog. Let the person who tagged you know when you’ve posted your answers.

TAG #1
Ten Years Ago:  I was earning my bachelors degree in Psychology at the University of Wisconsin - Whitewater.

Five things in today’s ‘to do’ list (in addition to stamping):

• Drop my son off at school
• Go to work – at my “real” job as a Sales & Marketing Assistant
• Make a grocery list
• Do dishes
• Stalk Splitcoaststampers.com

Snacks I enjoy:  Ruffles Chips & French Onion dip, sharp cheddar cheese on triscuits, and CANDY! (sweet-tarts, spree’s, skittles, ooo and chocolate covered gummy bears)

Things I would do if I was a millionaire:  Buy a house, furnish the house, have my own craft room & a special room for my husband for guitar playing, and go all out in my son’s room.  Buy a black Volkswagen Jetta (I’ve always wanted one).  Go on an all inclusive family vacation every year.  Share money with my parents and brother.  Donate to Susan G. Komen For the Cure. 

Places I have lived:  Hubert, North Carolina as a baby.  Wisconsin for the rest of my life. Deerfield, Whitewater, Madison, Dodgeville, and McFarland.

 

TAG #2

7 weird facts about me (edited to add 2 that I just remembered)

1. I met my husband of 5 years through Match.com
2. I wanted to be an interior designer (for a while had dreams about being a marine biologist – until I realized that meant working with all fish – I liked whales & dolphins – that’s so funny now that I think about it), but instead chose business real estate as my major, and finally switched to Psychology with a Sociology minor. 
3. I LOVE music but very rarely do I listen to it.
4. I’m not cut out to be a Mommy, but I have an awesome 4 year old son that is the love of my life.  I’m also a step-mom to a 12 year old girl and 11 year old boy.
5. Diamonds aren’t this girls best friend.  I would prefer a big fat Ruby for my wedding ring.
6. Modern Musicals are one of my favorite types of movies.  Across the Universe & Moulin Rouge to name a few.
7. I fall “in love” with movie stars, TV stars, and singers very easily.
8. I am a reality TV junkie
   
9. I love cartoons - odd cartoons and I love animated movies (Pixar, Disney)
   

I now tag these talented stampers and bloggers.  These women are all part of a swap group that I've recently joined.

Barbara

Dannie

Maggie

Cindy 

Amber

And now on to my Kreation... I CASE'D (Copy and Share for Everyone) the criss cross box and card style. 

Get more details on the inspiration pieces by visiting my SCS gallery and logging in.  More photos, including individual shots of each card and the box are in my Kreations Gallery.

Download the tutorial to make the criss cross box here. 

I used Papertrey Ink Honey Bees stamp set, Stampin' Up! Fall Flowers designer series paper, Old Olive, Really Rust, River Rock, and Soft Sky (cardstock and ink) for this project.