Dancing in Pajamas

TCP Tuesday 199 and Weekly Winner

2012-02-28T12:17:00.002-08:00

It's TCP Tuesday and Susan is the Hostess with the Mostess for this week's TCP Tuesday Stamp and CutUps Challenge. Mr. Freezemeister is making his way back home and Spring is just starting to wake up. And it's almost time to throw open the windows and let the outdoors in.

Susan is pushing it a little bit and is challenging you to use any stamps from The Cat's Pajamas that are out getting a "breath of fresh air" (aka doing something outside) along WITH the Cloud Border CutUps Die.

Well, I'm busy drawing the next release, so I probably won't be playing, so I thought that I'd inspire you with one of my favorite cards from Susan that fits the challenge.

Don't you just love this card, too!? Her colors are so bright and happy! The stamp set is Flutter By, and besides using the Cloud Border CutUps, she's using one of the three butterflies that come in the Mini Exotic Butterfly Die pack.

Jonesing for the soaring spaces? Check out Leigh's pullout card. It's truly fantastic.

I'm loving this card by Jenny's using Cowboys and Indians rubber stamps. I think you will, too.

And then there is Lori's patriotic card that just flys high, in my book.

Remember, since this is a stamp and CutUps challenge ONLY cards and projects using The Cat's Pajamas stamps and the Cloud Border CutUps are eligible to win.

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WEEKLY WINNER!

And NOW this Week's Weekly Winner! This little pretty from Julia Vasquez is this Week's Weekly Winner. She played in last week's color challenge. Julia, please contact me for your voucher code

Here are the Deets for TCP Tuesday.
1. Each Tuesday we will give you a challenge.
2. You will have until the end of the month to complete the challenge.

3. Add your entry to the Inlinkz Gallery or upload to the SCS Gallery, using the keyword TCPTUES199 for this week's challenge.

4. TCP stamps are not required for this challenge, but highly recommended.
5. There will be one randomly chosen weekly winner, announced on Tuesdays who will win a Gift Voucher for use on The Cat's Pajamas website.
6. There will be one winner, The Swanky Stamper, announced the 1st of each month. They will win several sets from an upcoming release and get to play along with us at our Pajama Party and Blog Hop.
7. The winner has one week from the day the winner is posted to contact me for his/her voucher code.

Pinterested?

2012-02-24T11:34:00.000-08:00

Yuppers! The Cat's Pajamas is on Pinterest. We've got several different boards up with the usual eyecandy from The Cat Pack, and a pinboard with tutorials using The Cat's Pajamas stamps and CutUps dies!

And, we've got a board featuring some of our customers cards and projects. Want to see? Then follow us here! (There was a problem with the link earlier, that's now fixed.)

Because it's Friday and all, we know you are getting ready to stamp this weekend. Getting ready means getting some inspiration to jumpstart your mojo. So howzabout trying your had at this week's TCP Tuesday Color Challenge?

Lori, our Hostess with the Mostess is asking you to use Mossy Green, Soft Pink, and Aqua together.

Leigh's got her mojo motor going with this card.

And I'm digging the woodgrain in this card by Amy R.

Check out this soft and pretty card by Nancy? She's channeling a little pastel.

Amy S. kicks some serious grass with her card.

Jen goes so elegant with her CAS Card.

How about some sweet sugar from Julie?

And Jenny's pretty, pretty card using almost all CutUps dies!? Terrific.

Mojo motor going, yet? Now go and make something.

TCPTues 198 & Winning!

2012-02-21T12:22:00.001-08:00

It's TCP Tuesday and Lori is the Hostess with the Mostess for this week's TCP Tuesday Color Challenge.And Lori is challenging you to use Mossy Green, Soft Pink and Aqua in your card or project.

Don't you just love these colors? So soft and purdy. The Cat Pack has been working with these colors and I can tell you, their projects are pretty darn awesome.

Like Susan's take on this combo. And Susan's been a busy, busy gal. She's posting up LOTS of the past challenges from this month. And you can, too! If you miss posting your challenge by the deadline one week you are still eligible for the big prize of Swanky Stamper even if you post late.

I'm not sure what happened to my post last week after I announced the winners of the Blop Hop—it seems to have just disappeared, so I'll just tell you that Julie's ABC Challenge was awesome. And The Cat Pack pulled out all the stops to inspire you.

Take a look at Amy's sweet tag for Carole's darlin' son, Carter.

Nancy did a sweeeeet tag, too. And I can totally see it decorating some lucky bunny's basket.

The other Amy (sorry Amy) created a wonderful Get Well gift that would lift anyone's spirits.

And Lori created an AWESOME mobile that really must be seen to be believed.

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WEEKLY WINNER!

And NOW this Week's Weekly Winner! This is egggciting, no! This week's Weekly Winner is Makalah! She used PJ and accessorized him with all those goodies from the Beary Good Year set. Congrats, Makalah! Please email me for your voucher code

Here are the Deets for TCP Tuesday.
1. Each Tuesday we will give you a challenge.
2. You will have until the end of the month to complete the challenge.

3. Add your entry to the Inlinkz Gallery or upload to the SCS Gallery, using the keyword TCPTUES198 for this week's challenge.

Surprise Julee!

2012-02-20T05:00:00.000-08:00

Yup. You are at the right place.

It's Monday and it's a very special, special day. It's Mojo Monday!

And, Julee Tilman, Owner of Verve Stamps and creator of Mojo Monday is having a little one. Actually... a couple of little ones. That's right, TWINS!

And I am hopping with joy for Julee and Mark. A bunch of us are. Blog hopping that is. So if you've come from Sarah's blog, you are in the right place. If you haven't, you may want to start at the very beginning at hop organizer, Teresa 'cause I know that there are some really awesome people playing.

So this week's awesome Mojo Monday Sketch was a doozy. And a definite challenge for me. But, then again, that is what it's supposed to do, right?

I took the sketch and turned it on its side. Then used a whole lot of CutUps dies. I really wanted to show off all the clouds so I didn't put the center panel in from the sketch. I think if you squint your eyes a little bit you still get the feel spirit of the sketch.

Now on to Carole! I KNOW she's done something truly awesome. She always does.

I {heart} U

2012-02-15T12:00:00.000-08:00

When I was in grade school, we made mailboxes to place on our desks to "receive" all the valentines that our classmates would send us. That long ago, store-bought paper valentines were the norm and at the end of the day, we would pour over our valentines to see who got what from who.

I don't know about you, but my heart just goes thump, thump, thump when I take a gander over at the blog hoppers there to the right. We had a whopping 52 Valentines in this year's blog hop. And it feels just like I'm in grade school all over again.

If you haven't taken a look, yet, you should. I am still wandering through all the awesome Valentines in there.

But you are looking for the LUCKY three winners of this blog hop, aren't you? Three LUCKY winners of $25 in Cat's Cash from our website.

Well, here they are!

First up is Melissa Hubert's card featuring the Penguin from Got Love. Love all the paper pieced hearts and that pretty ribbon in the Anywhere Ribbon Slide.

Maggie Haas has my ticket. She used Admit One, the Big Ticket and Hearts Trio for her entry.

And Bonnie Sharp. I love this color combo. It reminds me that you don't need to wait for Valentine's Day to say "I love you". Bonnie used the Rolled Nest and Circus Panels CutUps, as well as the Nesting and Simply Said stamp set. Stunning.

Congrats, Ladies! Please contact me for your voucher codes.

TCP Tuesday & WINNING!

2012-02-14T11:21:00.000-08:00

It's TCP Tuesday and Julie is the Hostess with the Mostess for this week's TCP Tuesday Technique Challenge.And Julie is challenging you to practice your ABCs. That's right. Your ABCs

For those of you who need to brush up, ABCs mean (A)nthing (B)ut a (C)ard. And being a paper crafter it's just the type of challenge that I love. And it's the perfect time to showcase your Valentine making talent if you are decorating sweets for your sweet. A twofer, if you will.

Leigh's got her mojo going with the Valentine for her son! It's so cute. Do you think she would notice if I changed my name to "Kyle" just for the day?

Or how about Jen's roaring cute door pocket? I want to be her Valentine.

And if you get it done today, you can get a threefer if you enter it in our Valentine Blog Hop. Just upload your card to your blog and link it to this blog using the inlinkz button to the right. You could win $25 in Cat's Cash. AND we're giving away THREE prizes. So you have three chances to win.

Check the deets for that in this Post.

Did you get a chance to play along in last week's TCP Tuesday Inspiration Challenge hosted by Jen?

Take a peek at Amy's sweet, sweet card. It reminds me that after a storm there are rainbows. That Amy. She's so deep.

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WEEKLY WINNER!

And NOW this Week's Weekly Winner! Drumroll please! Christyne Kane! She used the Penguin from our "You say it's your birthday" set. Christyne, please email me for your voucher code.

Here are the Deets for TCP Tuesday.
1. Each Tuesday we will give you a challenge.
2. You will have until the end of the month to complete the challenge.

3. Add your entry to the Inlinkz Gallery or upload to the SCS Gallery, using the keyword TCPTUES197 for this week's challenge.

Get your hearts here

2012-02-09T12:32:00.000-08:00

One of my New Year's resolutions is to take more classes at my LSS. While I love looking at all the delicious eye candy on the web, sometimes I get a little intimidated by everything I see and get a little discouraged to stamp.

By taking classes at my LSS I get to roll up my sleeves and get my fingers a little inky.

The class I took last weekend was taught by Lynn at Mainely Stampin'. She was teaching a Valentine's card class. And, boy was I excited to see this one that uses our stamps and CutUps dies.

She used "Gimme Some Sugar" and "It Had To Be Mew" for the stamps and our "Queen of Hearts" CutUps. You'll notice that the die's holes are embossed as opposed to cut out and that's because we used thick paper and no shim. The Cuttlebug is very well loved and it was pretty cool to see the result. This is why I love going to my LSS. I learn so much!

This card would be perfect for our Valentine Blog Hop! I hope you are playing! Just take a look to your right, at all the fab cards. Can't you see yours there, too? And don't forget, we are giving away $25 gift vouchers to three lucky randomly chosen peeps who hop along with us.

Maybe it's a Valentine inspired by this TCP Tuesday's Inspiration Collage.

Did you see Amy's pretty little ditty? Love the rainbow colors against kraft paper.

Or Julie's truly beautiful card? So fresh and purty. Just like the rainbow after the rain.

Word on the street: a couple more Cat Packers will be posting today and their cards will have you singing.

Just sayin'. Or singin'.

TCP Tuesday And Weekly Winner

2012-02-07T13:39:00.000-08:00

It's TCP Tuesday and Jen is the Hostess with the Mostess for this week's TCP Tuesday Inspiration Challenge.And Jen is challenging you to use this Rainbow Inspiration Collage for your card or project.

It's raining here in San Francisco, so I'm expecting a pretty rainbow if the sun ever decides it's going to shine.

I'm not sure it's raining where Nancy and Lori are, but their cards for this challenge are like rays of sunshine in my part of the world. They are so bright and happy.

Did you get a chance to play along in last week's TCP Tuesday Sketch Challenge hosted by Leigh? Our Cat Packers did and they pulled out all the stops.

Like Amy's Mariachi Birthday card. Yes, you read that right. And you have to see this cute card, to believe it.

Nancy makes me a believer with her a sweet penguin card.

I really {heart} Julie's card. I just love how she put the heart rosette behind Big Bear.

Lori dressed up Sprinkle and her card is so sweet!

Then, take a look at Jenny's card. I just love her sweet bunny's carrying that little basket full of hearts. Just sweet, sweet.

Don't forget about our Valentine Blog Hop. You could win $25 in Cat's Cash!
Check the deets for that in this Post.

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WEEKLY WINNER!

And speaking of winning, this week's Weekly Winner is Emma Hubert. Emma, please email me for your voucher code.

Here are the Deets for TCP Tuesday.
1. Each Tuesday we will give you a challenge.
2. You will have until the end of the month to complete the challenge.

3. Add your entry to the Inlinkz Gallery or upload to the SCS Gallery, using the keyword TCPTUES196 for this week's challenge.

She had me at "Meow"

2012-02-06T00:00:00.000-08:00

Each time I see a card with one of our stamps, I always do a double take. It amazes me every time, that there are such talented artists that use our stamps.

And so, when I saw this card by one of my stamping heros, Amy Sheffer, I was a little verklempt. Yes, I must admit, I was a little speechless, which, if you know me well, does not happen very often.

Amy can do shabby chic and vintage, like nobody's business. Her designs are sophisticated and elegant. And to bring that style to our stamps? Well, you know, speechless.

And there's a certain type of magic that Amy brings to her card designs. A little eclectic with a bit of wit, more than a smidge of cleverness mixed in with a whole lot of really great design and color sense.

I've been watching Amy work this magic for years and I happy to say that, now, she will officially be working her magic at The Cat's Pajamas.

Welcome to The Cat Pack, Amy!

February Project of the Month

2012-02-03T10:02:00.000-08:00

Jen del Muro brings a delightful and unique way to give goodies. You don't have to wait until Easter to try it, it's great for any day you want to give a sweet little treat.

Download instructions here for The Bunny's Basket for FREE. It's our February Project of the Month.

Swanky Stamper and Weekly Winner

2012-02-02T12:20:00.000-08:00

Wendy Mcgaffey — Swanky Stamper for February

I {heart} hearts, but hate laundry. So this sweet card by Wendy Mcgaffey is just my style. Love the different types of hearts hanging from the mini clothespins. Wendy did several different cards last month, but this one really went ping! It got me.

Wendy Mcgaffey — Swanky Stamper for February

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WEEKLY WINNER

It's Weekly Winner Time! This week's Weekly Winner is Tammy. She played along with us on our TCP Tuesday Stamp Challenge and was randomly chosen from every one who played. The challenge was to use any Cat's Pajamas stamp and any CutUps with a heart

Tammy wins $10 in Cat's Cash to use on The Cat's Pajamas website.

Tammy, please email me for your voucher code.

TCP Tuesday 195

2012-01-31T00:00:00.000-08:00

It's TCP Tuesday and Leigh is the Hostess with the Mostess for this week's TCP Tuesday Sketch Challenge.And Leigh is challenging you to use this sweet sketch for your card or project.

Pretty Nifty, no? I think that Leigh has the most original sketches out there and they challenge you in so many different ways.

Right now, I'm at CHA, the Craft and Hobby Association's big winter do, rubbing elbows and soaking up lots of creative juices. (Sounds a little gross when putting it that way. But that's how I roll.)
But, even I am tempted by this unique sketch.

The Cat's Pajamas will be back "online" on February 2nd, so if you've placed an order, we will fill it as soon as we get back. AND I'll announce the NEW Swanky Stamper, and Weekly Winner then.

AND, if that weren't enough, there's a new Project of the Monnnnthhh! ;)

So in the meantime, play along with The Cat Pack on this challenge and don't forget about our Valentine Blog Hop. Check the deets for that in this Post.

Here are the Deets for TCP Tuesday.
1. Each Tuesday we will give you a challenge.
2. You will have until the end of the month to complete the challenge.

3. Add your entry to the Inlinkz Gallery or upload to the SCS Gallery, using the keyword TCPTUES195 for this week's challenge.

TCP Tuesday and Fishing

2012-01-27T10:10:00.000-08:00

Have you had a chance to play along with our "Hearts Have It" TCP Tuesday Challenge, yet. Susan is challenging you to use a Cat's Pajamas stamp and any of our CutUps dies with a heart in it.

If you have, then not only do you qualify to be the next Swanky Stamper, then you can also play along in our Valentine Blog Hop. All you have to do is upload your card or project by end of day February 14 using the inlinkz button to the right of this post. We've got a lot of great cards already. See them over there? Now let's see yours.

And to sweeten the deal a little bit, we'll pick three random winners for $25 in Cat's Cash on February 15. That's a $25 gift certificate to those who don't speak Sprinkle.

So what are you waiting for? Here's a little sumptin' sumptin' from Nancy to get those creative juices a flowin'.

PS. The Cat's Pajamas will be closed today through February 2nd so any order you place from now until then will be shipped when we get back. Going Fishing.

Valentine Blog Hop

2012-01-25T23:30:00.000-08:00

This is the time of year that we say "I Love You" to the people (and animals) we love the most.

We know you put a lot of effort into creating cards and goodies to show the ones you love how much you care. And while some are very personal, some are ones you just want to share. And we'd love to see them.

So, if you have a Valentine project/card that features The Cat's Pajamas stamps or CutUps dies, we invite you to share them during our Cat's Pajamas Valentine Blog Hop. Just add your project to the inlinkz button on the right side of this blog from now until February 14th.

And, that's not all. Three people will be randomly chosen from the hop to win $25 in Cat's Cash (that's a gift voucher from our webstore). We'll announce the winners on February 15th! Remember, there must be at least one Cat's Pajamas stamp or CutUps used in your project.

Now, go play.

TCP Tuesday 194 & the Weekly Winner

2012-01-24T13:29:00.000-08:00

It's TCP Tuesday and Susan is the Hostess with the Mostess for this week's TCP Tuesday Stamp Challenge.

And Susan's challenge is perfect for this time of year. The Hearts Have It! Susan is challenging you to use any Cat's Pajamas stamp along with any of our CutUps Hearts. And we've got a bunch.

Susan uses Love Stinks with one of the hearts from our Heart Trio CutUps

Amy's sophisticated card, uses our NEW Build-A-Bingo set and Heart Rosette CutUps, as well as our Queen of Hearts Border. And, as an added treat she created a sweet K-Cup holder á la Project of the Month.

Julie adds a bit of bling to her card. And sparkles up that darn cat from It Had To Be Mew.

Lori revisits her darling K-Cup project. And it's amazing with the addition of the Heart Rosette, it gives the project a whole new look.

Want to play along? You could win $10 in Cat's Cash! Just upload your card using the Inlinkz button at the bottom of this post or to the SCS gallery using TCPTUES184 in your keywords.

But remember, it's a Cat's Pajamas Stamp and CutUps Challenge, so only The Cat's Pajamas Stamps and CutUps are allowed this week.

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WEEKLY WINNER

It's Weekly Winner Time! This week's Weekly Winner is Wendy. She played along with us on our TCP Tuesday Color Challenge and was randomly chosen from every one who played. The challenge was to use Pale Pink, Melon, and Brown.

Wendy wins $10 in Cat's Cash to use on The Cat's Pajamas website.

Wendy, please email me for your voucher code.

Here are the Deets.

1. Each Tuesday we will give you a challenge.
2. You will have until the end of the month to complete the challenge.

3. Add your entry to the Inlinkz Gallery or upload to the SCS Gallery, using the keyword TCPTUES194 for this week's challenge.

Clearly Sweet

2012-01-20T12:22:00.000-08:00

I loved last week's TCP Tuesday Embossing Challenge so much that I wanted to do another card. I don't know about you, but I love making clear cards. Something about them makes them look so special. So I pulled out my acetate and the "Sugar, Sugar" clear set to try something a little different.

And, of course, I had to pull out my favorite grass die, too.

First, I cut the acetate to a regular card size, 8.5" x 5.5", folded it down the center and ran the front through my Big Kick using an embossing folder and placed a 4.25" x 5.5" piece of DP in the back. I love the way that the embossing looks against the DP. Unfortunately, for me, it doesn't photograph well, but you get the picture.

I folded a piece of 11"x 4.25" green cardstock in half to get 5.5" x 4.25". Keeping the fold toward the bottom, I ran the grass die, at an angle, through the two layers of cardstock at the same time, about 1.5" from the top.

Then, I just slipped the embossed acetate between the two layers, with the bottom edge of the acetate at fold of the green card bottom. The layers of cardstock cover any adhesive, giving a nice neat finish.

And then I used one of the discarded pieces of "grass" to decorate the top after I embellished it with a little Orange Divine Twine. Pretty snazzy. So snazzy that I'm going to be teaching how to do this card this Saturday at Mainely Stampin' at their card marathon, 10 to the end. That's 10 cards for only $35. It's an awesome deal. AND so much fun hanging at my LSS.

Now, I'm a little behind with my TCP Tuesday Challenges, but The Cat Pack is not. Lori's Color Challenge is to use Pale Pink, Melon and Brown.

I just ADORE this scrappy little card by Leigh to celebrate National Penguin Day. It's so funny to see the penguin in his very own basket.

And, this beary sweet card by Nancy. This gal can really work that Heart Trio CutUps.

Love this sweet card by Jenny. She's a winner in the game of stamping! Check out her use of Queen of Hearts CutUps.

And, last but not least, Julie. Her paper piecing and coloring of that sweet little bird is so cute!

Want to play along? I know I will. Just upload your card using the Inlinkz button at the bottom of this post and you could win Cat's Cash and be eligible to be our next Swanky Stamper!

And, if you can, join me at Mainely Stampin' this Saturday!

TCP Tuesday & Weekly Winner

2012-01-17T13:06:00.000-08:00

It's TCP Tuesday and Lori is the Hostess with the Mostess for this week's TCP Tuesday Color Challenge.

And Lori is challenging you to use Pale Pink, Melon, and Brown in a card, or project or scrapbook page. The colors are just luscious, aren't they?

And speaking of luscious, take a peek at Amy's card. I love the fresh look of this card, using the SFYTT sketch (which, by the way The Cat's Pajamas is sponsoring this month.)

And the Jen, the Queen of SFYTT, makes these colors work in such a wonderful way.

Or Susan's flirty little card. Love how she layered up the Heart Rosette with a scalloped circle. It does a mama's heart proud to see it dressed up and ready to go. {sniff, sniff}

Want to play along? You could win $10 in Cat's Cash! Just upload your card using the Inlinkz button at the bottom of this post or to the SCS gallery using TCPTUES183 in your keywords.

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WEEKLY WINNER

It's Weekly Winner Time! This week's Weekly Winner is Cec. She played along with us on our TCP Tuesday Technique Challenge and was randomly chosen from every one who played. And there were a lot of you. The challenge was to use any type of embossing in your project.

Cec wins $10 in Cat's Cash to use on The Cat's Pajamas website.

Cec, please email me for your voucher code.

Here are the Deets.

1. Each Tuesday we will give you a challenge.
2. You will have until the end of the month to complete the challenge.

3. Add your entry to the Inlinkz Gallery or upload to the SCS Gallery, using the keyword TCPTUES193 for this week's challenge.

Blog Hop & TCP Tuesday AND the Weekly Winner

2012-01-09T22:18:00.000-08:00

Happy Release Day! Or should I say Hoppy Release Day! If you've been enjoying all the Sneaky Peeks in the last week, then you know that today is the first day that they are available on our website.

And that means that today is a fabulous Blog Hop. And since today is also Tuesday, that means it's TCP Tuesday. (We are busy, busy gals). So if you've come from the oh-so terrific Nancy, then sadly, you've reached the end of the blog hop.

Julie, who is also our Hostess with the Mostess, is challenging you to use embossing. Dry embossing, heat embossing. Anything that raises up and gives you dimension. Start at Julie's blog and make your way back here. I can pretty much guarantee it will be worth it. And, you'll get another peek at our NEW January Collection.

For this challenge I decided to do both dry and heat embossing. I used Versafine Spanish Moss and Judikins Gold Detail embossing powder for the bunny and word from the Sugar, Sugar stamp set and used an embossing folder for the sky.

And then, I went to town. I pulled out my very favorite Cloud Border CutUps and the brand new Heart Rosette and the Egg from the Eggs in a Basket CutUps. I had so much fun nestling the eggs in the clouds. And that Heart Rosette. I love it looks just as pretty by itself, like I've shown here, as it does when I put two of them together to form a rosette.

Want to play along? You could win $10 in Cat's Cash.

Here are the Deets.

1. Each Tuesday we will give you a challenge.
2. You will have until the end of the month to complete the challenge.

3. Add your entry to the Inlinkz Gallery or upload to the SCS Gallery, using the keyword TCPTUES192 for this week's challenge.

4. TCP stamps are not required for this challenge, but highly recommended.
5. There will be one randomly chosen weekly winner, announced on Tuesdays who will win a Gift Voucher for use on The Cat's Pajamas website.
6. There will be one winner, The Swanky Stamper, announced the 1st of each month. They will win a selection from an upcoming release and get to play along with us at our Pajama Party and Blog Hop.
7. The winner will have one week to claim their voucher code.

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WEEKLY WINNER!

And the Weekly Winner is....

Vicky Z! YAY! Vickie, you win $10 in Cat's Cash. You have 1 week to email me for your voucher code. Congrats!

Sneaky Peek #7

2012-01-09T08:30:00.000-08:00

Day #7

Build-A-Bingo

IIt's Day #7 of Sneaky Peek Week. And that means that tomorrow, January 10 all the stamps and dies you've been seeing in the last week will be available on our website. Have you seen anything you liked? Well, you might just want to add this one to your list.

This set was designed by our very own Leigh O'Brien. And, when she came to me with the idea, my heart started to beat a little faster. Her idea was to have a Bingo card that you could customize for every special day in the month. Birthdays, Anniversaries and Holidays, you name it. My job was to make it happen, and to make it easy.

So, this set comes with a Bingo card with an empty "FREE" space in the center and at the top. The card's numbers are some most common "dates." Your special date not on the card? The set comes with the rest of the days of the month (and a couple extra). Just stamp the number you want in the blank center spot

The set also comes with little graphics that you can use to highlight the date. And, it comes with words that you can stamp at the top to personalize your Bingo card even more.

Like this card by Carole Burrage. She's got the card gussied up for...you guessed it, Valentine's Day. Love how she decorated the card with our NEW Queen of Hearts Border and our Heart Trio CutUps.

Here's a pretty Valentine by Nancy Thomas. She uses the NEW Heart Rosette, "Gimme Some Sugar" and a couple of old favorites, "Love Letters" and the Stamp Trio CutUps. She dresses up the Bingo card with "Lovey" at the top and a little heart in the center. Wouldn't you love to get this Valentine?

And even I couldn't resist the lure of the "Build-A-Bingo" set. I've used "Feelin' Cupidy", the Lacy Floral Doily, and the Queen of Hearts CutUps, along with a bit of yummy Peppermint Divine Twine. Can you tell I love this release?

What I love about the Build-A-Bingo set is that you can make it as personal as you want, or as simple as you want. If you don't want to personalize the Bingo card at all, you can just stamp it and fill in the center spot with the "FREE" stamp. But, if you do, there are so many ways to do it. We've packed a lot into this 4" x 6" set.

Want to see more? Then hop on over to Leigh, and Swanky Stamper, Lisa Henke and see how they used "Build-A-Bingo."

When you finish at their blogs, head on over to our Forum on SplitcoastStampers and leave a comment on our "In It To Win It!" Thread. You could win the "Build-A-Bingo" stamp set just by leaving a comment.

And before I go, I'd like to give a big giant kitty SMACK to Lisa Henke for playing along with us this week. Her cards were so awesome and it was an honor to see how she used our stamps. Thank you Lisa!

Sneaky Peek #6

2012-01-08T08:30:00.000-08:00

Day #6

Love Stinks

It's Day #6 of Sneaky Peek Week. Only ONE more peek after this one and this stamp set and all the other stamp sets and dies you've been looking at this week will be available. On Tuesday, January 10, that is.

After I introduced the penguin and his little friend, the fish, in our last collection, I knew I had to bring them back for a little more love. This time we get to meet his lady friend. I wonder who will be happier with their Valentine.

If I had to choose a Valentine, I think I'd pass on the fish. I think I'd choose this pretty Valentine by Julie Masse. With its happy colors and bits of sparkly bling to dress up the Heart Rosette, and the ribbon held by the Anywhere Ribbon Slide on that panel made with the Queen of Hearts CutUps, who wouldn't. It's pretty stinkin' cute.

Or maybe I'd chose this this cute little lolly by Nancy Thomas. After all, just like all of our stamps and dies, it's made in the U.S. Sweet!

Or how about this darling card by Amy Rohl? How awesome is it that she used the egg from the NEW Eggs in a Basket CutUps and the hearts from the Heart Rosette? I think I'M in love.

Want to see more? Then check out Swanky Stamper, Lisa Henke and see how she used "Love Stinks."

When you finish at her blog, head on over to our Forum on SplitcoastStampers and leave a comment on our "In It To Win It!" Thread. You could win the "Love Stinks" stamp set just by leaving a comment.

Sneaky Peek #5

2012-01-07T08:30:00.000-08:00

Day #5

Bunny Side Up

It's Day #5 of Sneaky Peek Week. And that means that there are only 2 peeks after today before all the sets and dies that we've shown this week are released on January 10. Are you eggited, yet?

I'm eggcited because of this set, aptly named by Carole Burrage, "Bunny Side Up." This set is perfect for me, because I love to color, but unfortunately don't have as much time to color as I would like.

Take this card by Susan Liles. There are some nice areas to color, but really the main focus is on the bunny. You can color him as much as you like or as little. Susan colors him a pretty brown, but he'd look just as cute white with brown shadows. And the Lacy Floral Doily? It's the perfect backdrop.

Want to do a special technique on the bunny? He's big enough to do it on. Check out this card by Carole Burrage. See what I mean?

While you are at it, take a gander at CutUps Die number 4 in our January Collection. We call it "Eggs in a Basket." It's an embossed basket that comes with an egg die that you can use to fill the basket with as many eggs as you'd like. Or whatever you'd like. Carole has the eggs nestled in our Grass CutUps.

And see that pretty wide border behind the bunny? Place 2 scalloped borders from our "Queen of Heart" CutUps back to back and cover the seam with a ribbon. Too Cute.

This card by Lori Tecler shows that this set is not for just Easter. The set comes with a variety of sayings for a variety of occasions. Even that bad hair day.

Want to see more? Then check out Jen, Nancy, and Swanky Stamper, Lisa Henke and see how they used "Bunny Side Up." And while you are at Jen's blog, take a gander at her new SFYTT. It's the sketch that all the gals are using in this peek and The Cat's Pajamas is the sponsor for this month.

When you finish at their blogs, head on over to our Forum on SplitcoastStampers and leave a comment on our "In It To Win It!" Thread. You could win the "Bunny Side Up" stamp set just by leaving a comment.

Sneaky Peek #4

2012-01-06T08:00:00.000-08:00

Day #4

Warm Fuzzies

It's Day #4 of Sneaky Peek Week and today we are bringing you one of my personal favorites from the OuOu Collection. There is just something so sweet about the OuOu Kids that just warms my heart. What is so great is that the kids can be any age. We call this set "Warm Fuzzies" and we think it's perfect for the season. "Warm Fuzzies" and all the other sets and CutUps dies you see this week will be available on January 10.

Take this card by Jen del Muro. The little girl (whom the artist named Nancy) could be a toddler, or a pre-teen or a teenager or older. And by changing out the paper and colors, you can make this set as sophisticated or as down home as you want. I don't know why, but this gal reminds me of a little Mary Tyler Moore aka Mary Richards.

And just by changing out the papers, Jenny Peterson changes this gal from Mary Richards to Rhoda Morgenstern. (Just sayin') And this stamp's bold shapes make paper piecing a snap.

Like to color? Then this set is great for that too. Check out Lori Tecler's take on it. Add texture to her clothes and you can color her hair as simply or intricately as you want.

Want to see more? Then check out Julie, Leigh and Swanky Stamper, Lisa Henke and see how they used "Warm Fuzzies"

When you finish at their blogs, head on over to our Forum on SplitcoastStampers and leave a comment on our "In It To Win It!" Thread. You could win the "Warm Fuzzies" stamp set just by leaving a comment.

Sneaky Peek #3

2012-01-05T08:30:00.000-08:00

Day #3

Sugar, Sugar

It's Day #3 of Sneaky Peek Week and today we bring you the second bunny in our January Collection, which will be available on January 10. It's an Easter set. "EASTER?" You say? Why, yes! Easter is so early this year, we wanted to make sure you had a lot of time to stamp. We think this little certainly bunny deserves it.

We call this clear set "Sugar, Sugar". And the why should be pretty obvious. This little bunny has dug into the Easter goodies and now suffers from a full little belly, and perhaps is coming down from a whopper of a sugar high.

Amy Rohl shows off this set to perfection, along with our NEW Lacy Floral Doily and Queen of Hearts CutUps. If you liked our Snowflake Lace Paper CutUps, you'll love our NEW Lacy Floral Doily. It's like 5 dies in one, cutting 4 different sizes of flower and a pretty pierced doily at the same time. You can use the flowers for embellishments or whatever you wish.

I love the look of that doily behind that smug little bunny.

Want to see more? Then check out Swanky Stamper Lisa Henke and see how she used "Sugar, Sugar."

When you finish at her blog, head on over to our Forum on SplitcoastStampers and leave a comment on our "In It To Win It!" Thread. You could win the "Sugar, Sugar" stamp set just by leaving a comment.

Sneaky Peek #2

2012-01-04T08:30:00.000-08:00

Day #2

Feeling Cupidy

If you've been buzzing around the internet recently, you may have seen this sweet little bunny flying around causing quite a stir. Well today is the day you are formally introduced to "Feeling Cupidy". It's a clear stamp set that features our winged friend along with some other goodies that will make you want to shake a wing or two.

"Feeling Cupidy," along with all the other Clear Sets and CutUps Dies that you'll see all this week will be available on January 10.

Julie Masse's CAS card is not only clean and simple, but elegant as well. She stamps up this "almost there" one layer card using an old favorite CutUps, the Heart Trio. A bit of Peppermint Divine Twine and glitz and this card will steal anyone's heart.

Nancy Thomas creates this beauty with "Feeling Cupidy" and our NEW Heart Rosette CutUps Die, along with a CutUps from our Fall Collection, the Circus Panels CutUps Die. With the Heart Rosette CutUps you can use one by itself, or put two together to form this pretty and delicate looking rosette. Oh la la.

This card by Lori Tecler, is CAS, too, but uses the Queen of Hearts CutUps border to add texture and interest. We think it's a die that should be in every well dressed papercrafter's "wardrobe."

Want to see more? Then check out Jen, Leigh, Jenny, Susan and Swanky Stamper Lisa Henke and see how they used "Feeling Cupidy."

When you finish at their blogs, head on over to our Forum on SplitcoastStampers and leave a comment on our "In It To Win It!" Thread. You could win the "Feeling Cupidy" stamp set just by leaving a comment.

Sneaky Peek Day #1

2012-01-03T08:30:00.000-08:00

Day #1

Gimme Some Sugar

It's Day 1 of Sneaky Peek Week! I don't know about you, but I'm ready for the new year and everything that it brings. And that includes our January Collection coming on January 10! We've got 7 NEW stamp sets and 4 NEW CutUps dies in this collection, and I know that there is something for everyone to love. And that starts with this set. Sprinkle lovers, hang on to your hats.

When Jen del Muro came to me with the concept for this set, I knew it had to be a great one. Jen's idea was for a "sweet" shop with jars of cookies and candies, decorated with banners and pennants. She even wrote the sentiments, too!

And here is just a sample of how you can "build" your shop. Jen placed the banners above and below to really get her sweet message across.

Susan Liles' card is just stunning. She distresses the edges of her card for a vintage look. Who says Sprinkle can't be shabby chic? I think her addition of aqua is so striking and non-traditional. And her addition of the Peppermint Divine Twine is just perfect.

Here is a wonderfully elegant card by Nancy Thomas. You may have noticed the NEW CutUps in Jen's and Susan's cards, but in Nancy's you really get to see how special it is.

The two die cuts you see at the top of Nancy's card is really just one die. That's right. It's just one die that cuts two borders at one time. You already know how versatile our border dies are, cutting two shapes at once, and this time we took it a little further. I really {heart} our Queen of Hearts Border CutUps.

Want to see more? Then check out Amy, Julie, Jenny, Lori and Swanky Stamper Lisa Henke and see how they used "Gimme Some Sugar."

When you finish at their blogs, head on over to our Forum on SplitcoastStampers and leave a comment on our "In It To Win It!" Thread. You could win the "Gimme Some Sugar" stamp set just by leaving a comment.

And today's Sneaky Peek is a perfect segue into TCP Tuesday's Inspiration Challenge. Jen, creator of "Gimme Some Sugar" is also the Hostess with the Mostess for today's challenge. And not surprising, it's all about hearts. Check out the Inspiration Collage.

So after you check out the blogs and leave a comment on the "In It To Win It!" Thread, you might be so inspired to create something. At least we hope so. And if you are, then link up to your fab creation using the Inlinkz button below. You could win some Cat's Cash to put toward a future (ahem) order.

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WEEKLY WINNER

This week's Weekly Winner is Sher H. Sher played in our last TCP Tuesday Challenge of the year, our sketch challenge and wins $10 in Cat's Cash. Sher, please email me for your voucher code.

You can win some Cat's Cash, too! Here are the Deets.

1. Each Tuesday we will give you a challenge.
2. You will have until the end of the month to complete the challenge.

3. Add your entry to the Inlinkz Gallery or upload to the SCS Gallery, using the keyword TCPTUES191 for this week's challenge.

Swanky Stamper

2012-01-02T15:44:00.000-08:00

Noelle McAdams — Swanky Stamper for January

Okay, you got me. I just love papercrafting. Well, just plain crafting, if I were to be really honest. So, when I saw this wonderful coffee tumbler that Noelle McAdams created, decorating the insert using our TCP Tuesday Sketch as a jumping off point, she had me.

I love all the different papper she chose, and she mixed it up with a bit of ribbon and sparkley goodness AND paper piecing. YUM!

And for being chosen Swanky Stamper, Noelle with receive a selection of our stamps and dies from our March collection and get to play along with us during Sneaky Peek Week.

January Project of the Month

2012-01-01T00:01:00.001-08:00

Lori Tecler makes me think of sweet, sweet things with her pretty K-Cup Caddy. It's the perfect way to give a little yummy or two or four while learning a fancy trick with the Anywhere Ribbon Slide CutUps.

Find out how to make it here, and then download the instructions and template for FREE. It's our January Project of the Month.

Wrapping up

2011-12-28T10:49:00.000-08:00

This week, as I mentioned, we are taking a week off to relax a bit and to give you a little breather before the end of the month to play along with our last TCP Tuesday Challenge of the year.

Just a recap. This week is a Sketch Challenge and Leigh is the Hostess with the Mostess. And the above? The sketch. Think of this sketch as a quilt, where you can put all those pretty pieces of papers.

You've already seen Leigh's card. And Lori's.

But, have you seen Amy's? She changed up the sketch a bit for a vertical design and placed it on a Genie-Bag. AND also a Wine tag. It's perfect to decorate that New Year's gift, or when you are giving the gift of vino.

And speaking of vino, there is nothing I like doing better than gathering my friends together and watching movies and drinking wine. Kinda like Jenny's card. Check it out. I love all her little additions to the flags and what she used in place of the string.

Susan reminds us what the season is all about with her card. I love all the patterned paper pieces she used. I count 6. And it works beautifully.

Let's not forget Nancy's pretty card. The sketch and card works for any occasion.

And last but not least, Julie's terrific card. She uses 8 different patterns and comes out with a pretty sweet card.

It's the perfect card to use all those scraps on that you just don't want to throw out. Admit it, you probably have a box of those. And then, add your card to the Inlinks button at the bottom of this post. If you have it in by midnight, December 31, you could just be Swanky Stamper for January.

In the meantime, don't forget, we are doing a little housecleaning at the Cathouse. We are giving $10 worth of gifts for every $25 spent. And since I'm doing the packing, don't be surprised if your gift is worth more. ;)

Weekly Winner

2011-12-27T12:36:00.000-08:00

The Cat Pack is taking a much deserved break this week, but TCP Tuesday will be back next week. And guess what!? It will mark the beginning of Sneaky Peek Week.

We know you'll be craving something other than Christmas stamps and we'll start off with a sweet surprise. ;)

Yes. I'm a tease. In the meantime, the Weekly Winner!

This week's Weekly Winner is Wendy Bond! Isn't her card cute? She turned the sketch from TCP Tuesday on it's side and changed the oval shape to a rectangle. And the bear is just perfect with his paper pieced heart. Wendy wins $10 in Cat's Cash.

Wendy, please email me for your voucher code.

You can clean up, too!

2011-12-26T00:05:00.000-08:00

Now It's Our Turn To Play Santa!

For every $25 you spend we'll give you at least $10 worth of gifts. So the bigger your order, the more you get!

Here's a sampling of what we are giving away:

Spellbinders Nestablitlies
Clear Acrylic Albums & Shapes
Maya Road Chipboard Albums
Spica Glitter Pen Set (Original 13 colors)
Paper Pads from Cosmo Cricket, Sei, & more
Stencils
Ribbon packs from Cosmo Cricket & TCP
Buttons, buttons and more buttons

That's just a taste. And since we are playing Santa, we get to decide who gets what.
I hope you've been very good this year!

TCP Tuesday 190 and the Winner

2011-12-20T12:36:00.000-08:00

It's TCP Tuesday and Leigh is the Hostess with the Mostess for this week's TCP Tuesday Stamp Challenge.

Leigh is challenging you to use this fabby dabby sketch to create a fabby dabby card. I'm loving this sketch and I you will too!

Lori looks like she had oodles of fun with this sketch using our Clownin' Around set.

Once you've made your card, upload it to this post using the InLink button at the bottom.

Still working on last week's Stamp Challenge? Remember, it was to make a Holiday Card using The Cat's Pajamas stamps only. And for an added twist, Susan, our Hostess with the Mostess, wants you to use the Big Scallop CutUp Die.

Like Julie's oh-so-elegant Christmas card. So pretty. I loved that she used the Big Scallop CutUps to form that big scalloped square on the front of her card.

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WEEKLY WINNER

It's Weekly Winner Time! This week's Weekly Winner is Christyne Kane. She played along with us on our TCP Tuesday Stamp Challenge. She didn't use the Big Scallop CutUps, but she is wowing me with the skating penguins from Penguin Christmas, and it's the Holidays, so I'll give her a pass.

Christyne, please email me for your voucher code.

Here are the Deets.

1. Each Tuesday we will give you a challenge.
2. You will have until the end of the month to complete the challenge.

3. Add your entry to the Inlinkz Gallery or upload to the SCS Gallery, using the keyword TCPTUES190 for this week's challenge.

TCP Tuesday Stamp Challenge

2011-12-18T13:13:00.000-08:00

Have you been working busily on your TCP Tuesday Stamp Challenge? I know that with the Holidays it's hard to squeeze a challenge in. But Susan has made it simple. She wants you to use any of The Cat's Pajamas Stamps and Big Scallop CutUps to create a Holiday card.

Sound easy? It is. Just take a look at Leigh's beeeautiful card. All sparkly and shiny.

Or Amy's stinkin' cute card!

Or how about Jen's precious homemade Peppermint Bark tote? YUM!

Jackie's card reminds me of Christmas' past and those yet to come.

And Lori's fabulous card is as modern as Jackie's is traditional. Lori always has a fresh clean take on cards that I wish I could duplicate.

Well, Kitties, only one more challenge and then we are done for the year for TCP Tuesday. But, you have until the end of the month to get your challenge cards in to be eligible to be Swanky Stamper of the Month. Just add your card to the link button at the bottom of this post.

Last month's Swanky Stamper was Lisa Henke! And we are delighted to say that Lisa will be playing along with us when we release our next collection. And when will that be? January 10! Wheee!

With sets designed by Leigh O'Brien AND Jen del Muro, this is one of my favorite collections to date. (Hint, hint) AND Sprinkle fans, you won't be disappointed. There are a couple of surprises for you, too!

TCP Tuesday 189 & the Weekly Winner

2011-12-13T11:39:00.000-08:00

It's TCP Tuesday and Susan is the Hostess with the Mostess for this week's TCP Tuesday Stamp Challenge.

Susan is challenging you to get one last Holiday card in before the Holiday's hit.

So your challenge this week, is to use any of The Cat's Pajamas stamps to make a Holiday card. I'm thinking a winter holiday card. Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanza. And because it's a Stamp Challenge, only The Cat's Pajamas stamps are to be used. And she's adding a double whammy. Use the Big Scallop CutUps if you've got it.

Are you feeling the season, yet? Hop on over to Nancy's blog and see her delightful card.

Take a peek at how Jenny worked her magic on this challenge.

How about some non-traditional projects for the Holidays? Amy shows off three awesome projects that use The Cat's Pajamas stamps from our last release.

Julie uses our Gift Card Envie CutUps to create little pretties you can hang on the tree.

Still working on last week's Color Challenge? How about Leigh's card for a bit of inspiration? Or Jen's for a really wonderful way to use J*lly H*liday with our Big Ticket CutUps. And there is Julie's elegant take on the Color Challenge.

Once you've made your card, upload it to this post using the InLink button at the bottom.

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WEEKLY WINNER

It's Weekly Winner Time! This week's Weekly Winner is Kimberly Gajewski. She played along with us on our TCP Tuesday Color Challenge.

Such a pretty and elegant card.

Kimberly, please email me for your voucher code

Here are the Deets.

1. Each Tuesday we will give you a challenge.
2. You will have until the end of the month to complete the challenge.

3. Add your entry to the Inlinkz Gallery or upload to the SCS Gallery, using the keyword TCPTUES189 for this week's challenge.

For some reason, I have lost the last TCP Tuesday Color Challenge post. It was to use the colors Pale Pink, Red and Steel Gray. If you want to play along, just add your card using the link button below.

Congrats, Jen!

2011-12-05T09:37:00.001-08:00

Kudos go to our very own Jen del Muro!

"Why?" You ask? Well I'm glad you did! Pick up the December/January issue of Stamper's Sampler and on the left side of the cover, what do you see? Yup! That's right, "Guest Artist, Jen del Muro"

And if that weren't special enough, open the magazine and you get 6 full, delicious pages of Jen. Jen and Jen's work, that is.

Now we know that six pages isn't a lot when it comes to Jen's work, 'cause I always want to see more, but, what's really awesome is the Q & A at the end of the article. It's where we really get to know a little bit more about Jen. Like what she does to start the creative process. Or when she finds time to stamp. Or who she most would want to meet in person. And I'm not going to spoil it. Go out and pick up a copy. Jen is worth every penny of it.

December Swanky Stamper

2011-12-02T12:48:00.001-08:00

Lisa Henke — Swanky Stamper for December

When I think about designing stamp sets and dies, I design them to be used in different ways. And I love it when a designer gets that, and goes for it. That's what Lisa Henke does with "Go Bananas." She went for it.

Rather than going for a traditional look and color combo, she had fun with it and used a playful layout and color palette where the words were the true focus of the card. And her coloring? Well, let's just say that she wasn't monkeying around.

Lisa Henke — Swanky Stamper for December

December Project of the Month

2011-12-01T09:26:00.001-08:00

Susan Liles is all about fun and cute and clever. And her Snowflake Lace Paper Ornament adds elegant to that list. Easy to make with our New Snowflake Lace Paper CutUps, it looks like it would take hours to cut or punch out all those detailed snowflakes, but, of course, it doesn't.

Here's another look.

So pretty and sophisticated. It's our Project of the Month. Read how easy it is and then download the FREE instructions here.

Blog Hop, TCP Tuesday, Weekly Winner, Whew!

2011-11-28T21:29:00.000-08:00

Hi all! It's release day and I'm so excited about our Winter Collection, I am just bursting. If you've been following The Cat Pack and me during Sneaky Peek Week you know that TODAY is the first day that you can buy any of the goodies that we previewed.

And, as our tradition, we are mixing in our TCP Tuesday Challenge with a fantab-U-lous blog hop!

Julie, the Hostess with the Mostess, kicks off today's events with a wonderful Technique/Supply challenge. Her challenge is to create SHINY Embellishments. If you, come here from Nancy's blog, you have reached the end of your journey. If not, start at Julie's blog and visit each blog on the hop. I guarantee it's worth it.

Here is my card for the Blog Hop. As you know, I've been on a quest to make Holiday cards that I can actually mail without too much fuss or extra postage. So I've been restricting myself to light embellies and using ribbons and bows that don't bulk up the card.

I used our Snowflake Lace Paper CutUps (say that 10 times fast). I love this die because, not only does it cut a pretty doily type shape, but it cuts a slew of snowflakes that I can use for embellies. I cut two of these beauties from silver paper, shiny side facing the cutting mat to get a textured look, and used the the largest clear circle from Jody's Shaker Set as a base. Then it was just a matter of sticking the snowflakes on the adhesive.

I stamped "Joy" from J*lly H*liday" and ran it through an embossing folder. After I put the card together I pleated a little of our new "Tinsel" seam binding and added that, and called it a day. Weighing in at under one ounce, I couldn't be happier.

And I want to make you happy, too. With Black Friday and Cyber Monday, you all are probably tapped out and could use a little help getting the goodies we've been showing all week, right?

So as The Cat's Pajamas gift to you, we are offering you 15% off everything in the store, INCLUDING the already discounted KittyKat Pack and Poochie Pack. Just enter HAPPY15 in the promo code box when you check out. But, you better hurry, the offer ends on November 30, and it's our last "sale" of the year.

_________________________________

WEEKLY WINNER

And the Weekly Winner is Noelle McAdams. Noelle played along with our TCP Tuesday Inspiration Challenge and was randomly chosen. She wins $10 in Cat's Cash!

Noelle, please email me for your voucher code.

You could win too! Play along and add your card with the Inlinkz button below. Here are the Deets.

1. Each Tuesday we will give you a challenge.
2. You will have until the end of the month to complete the challenge.

3. Add your entry to the Inlinkz Gallery or upload to the SCS Gallery, using the keyword TCPTUES187 for this week's challenge.

Sneaky Peek #7

2011-11-28T03:00:00.000-08:00

Day #7

J*lly H*liday

It's Day 7 of Sneaky Peek Week! The final day of our Sneaky Peeks and today we areshowing the final set, "J*lly H*liday". "J*lly H*liday" and all the stamp sets andCutUps dies shown during Sneaky Peek Week will be available for purchase on November 29.

When the set was designed, we wanted it to do so much. First, we wanted it to be funand interactive.

Second, we wanted it to be simple and classic, since around the Holidays, the one thing that we never seem to get enough of is time and money. So we wanted this setto be fast and easy, and one that you could dress up or down, that you could use year afteryear.

And thirdly, we wanted the set to be able to work with the Big Ticket CutUps and the Stamp Trio CutUps. "J*lly H*liday" is the result. We hope you likeit as much as I do.

The set is made up of Holiday words, icons and phrases that you can mix and match. This card by Amy Rohl shows the set off to perfection. She used the Big Ticket CutUps as the base for the stamps and stamped "Jolly" and the ornament for the "O". Then she used the snowflakes from the Snowflake LacePaper CutUps to dress up the side of her card. The result is stunning.

No less stunning is Jen del Muro'sornament. She used the same word, and a wreath for her "O". And then she used theAnywhere Ribbon Slide CutUps to create this wonderful and beautiful ornament. Takea closer look.

Here is the ornament from the side. I can just picture thishanging from a tree, can't you. It's just breathtaking.

Now here is my card.This card was made with going through the mail in mind. It can be sent in a standardsize envie, relatively flat, and it's light. And, I wanted to send something that a non-stamper would "get". Here I've used "Noel" and the wreath, along with a pretty flourish that also comes in the set.

I used the Anywhere Ribbon Slide CutUps with the Dove Seam Binding.The best thing about the Seam Binding is that it's light and ties into a nice compactbow. And, if it gets wrinkled, it only adds to the look. This release, we'll be adding four yummy new colors of Seam Binding, Tinsel, Cornflower, Cranberry and Evergreen. Perfect for the Holidays.

Want to see more? Then check out Susan, and Lori and see how they used "J*lly H*liday."When you finish at their blogs, head on over to our Forum on SplitcoastStampers and leave a comment on our "In It To Win It!" Thread. You could win the "J*lly H*liday" stampset just by leaving a comment!

I want to thank Swanky Stampers, Kimberly Gajewski and Stephanie Herbert for playingalong with the Cat Pack this release. Their beautiful cards really showed off thiscollection. We are truly, truly blessed.

Sneaky Peek #6

2011-11-27T03:00:00.000-08:00

Day #6
Raising Cane

It's Day 6 of Sneaky Peek Week! Only one day of Sneaky Peeks after this and it's Release Day! Woot! Woot!

Today we are Sneak Peeking another set featuring that darling Bunny. It's called "RaisingCane". "Raising Cane" and all the stamps and CutUps dies we are previewing duringSneaky Peek Week will be available on November 29.

You're probably tired of me talking about this little guy, but I just can't help myself. He really can be dressed up or down. Look at Lori Tecler's card. Beautifully, but simply colored, Lori adds a little glam by glitzing up the candy cane with glitter.

Julie Masse goesCAS with this sweet little card. And in this case, CAS not only means Clean and Simple but alsoClassy and Sophisticated. Just a touch of color to the bunny and a bit of bling makes this card shine.

And when you want to treat that special someone to somethingsweet, it's "Raising Cane" and the Bunny to the rescue! Take a gander at these wonderfultags by Nancy Thomas. Tags this special can make even the humblest candy cane a delightful gift.

Here's a closer look.Really so sweet. We think the bunny's ears and candy cane are the perfect place to nestle that sweet sentiment. And did you notice the spiffy Divine Twine? Yup,it's Holiday Divine Twine and we'll have it in 240 yd rolls and 15 yard {Littles}.It's a festive way to tie a tag to a present or embellish a card.

Want to see more? Then check out Jackie, Susan,Jenny and SwankyStampers, KimberlyGajewski and StephanieHerbert and see how they used "Raising Cane".

When you finish at their blogs, head on over to our Forum on SplitcoastStampers and leave a comment on our "In It To Win It!" Thread. You could win the "Raising Cane" stampset just by leaving a comment!

Sneaky Peek #5

2011-11-26T06:00:00.000-08:00

Day #5

Peeking

It's Day 5 of Sneaky Peek Week! Wow, we are more than half over with Sneaky Peek Week. Time certainly flies. PJ the Bear is making his Holiday appearance in "Peeking"Having unwrapped a couple of presents before Christmas in my day, I certainly knowthat look. It's the "What? I was just admiring the bow on this present, really", look. Do you know it? "Peeking" and all the stamps and CutUps dies we are previewingduring Sneaky Peek Week will be available on November 29.

Even though it's the Holidays, "Peeking" is one of those classic images that you can use all year long. Just by changing out the paper and embellies, you've got a different look, for a different time of year, different occasion. You really can't go wrong with this sweet image for any time where there is gift giving.

Like this card by Leigh O'Brien. She makes make the perfect Holiday card by paper piecing the gift, coloring PJ and tucking in the Snowflake Lace Paper CutUps behind him. A little snowflake embellie from the CutUps and it's done.

Like this gift bag by NancyThomas. She does a simple tag but makes it "Holiday" with the color palette. It's a fast and easy way to dress up a gift bag. I know I have a TON of these tomake.Want to see more? Then check out Jen, Amy, Carole and Swanky Stampers, Kimberly Gajewski and Stephanie Herbert and see how they used "Peeking".

When you finish at their blogs, head on over to our Forum on SplitcoastStampers and leave a comment on our "In It To Win It!" Thread. You could win the "Peeking" stamp set just by leaving a comment!

Sneaky Peek #4

2011-11-25T06:00:00.000-08:00

Day #4

Freezin' Season

It's Day 4 of Sneaky Peek Week. Hump day. The bunny is making another sweet appearancein this NEW stamp set, "Freezin' Season". "Freezin' Season" and all the stamps andCutUps dies we are previewing during Sneaky Peek Week will be available on November29.

One of the reasons to love this bunny is that he is do easy to "do up". Like in this card by Amy Rohl. She stamps the bunny, paper pieces him and then colors him. Paper piecing is an easy way to bring color and pattern to your cards. Then Amy finishes it off withour NEW Snowflake Lace Paper CutUps and a twist of our NEW Seam Binding in Cranberry.

Here is the bunny "done" up simply on this card by Jenny Peterson. By keeping him and his little friend simple you can go all out with the background. She also uses the Snowflake Lace Paper CutUps.The CutUps is very detailed, so you may have to pass it through your die cut machineseveral times with shims. Unless, of course, you want the look of the center tree. You can run it through without cutting all the way through, or do what Jenny did and through with an embossing pad. Either way works, but using the embossing pad gives you a more consistent look.

And, Jenny uses the Anytime Ribbon Slide CutUps, too. Designed for 1/2" ribbon, you can use it with a smaller width and get this look.

In this easel card by LoriTecler, she keeps the bunny and company, simple and clean. She doesn't dress him down, but up, in elegance. Love that she uses the Anywhere Ribbon Slide at the "base" of the card with our New Seam Binding in Cornflower.

Want to see more? Then check out Leigh, Nancy, Jackie and Swanky Stampers, Kimberly Gajewski and Stephanie Herbert and see how they used "Freezin Season".

When you finish at their blogs, head on over to our Forum on SplitcoastStampers and leave a comment on our "In It To Win It!" Thread. You could win the "Freezin Season" stampset just by leaving a comment!

Sneaky Peek Day 3

2011-11-24T00:00:00.000-08:00

Day #3

Best Fishes

Happy Thanksgiving, to everyone in the United States. I hope you are full of Turkeyand relaxing before you start on the leftovers.

It's Day 3 of Sneaky Peek Week and today we are bringing you a stamp set featuringone of my all time characters, Mr. Penguin. Or Larry, as I like to fondly call him.This little guy is wonderful to paper piece or color.

Take a look at this card by Jenny Peterson. It's just darling, don't you think? Just a sweet little imagethat you can dress up or down. And that sweet bit of ribbon is actually a brand new color of seam binding, Cranberry. Just right for the season and soft as can be.

And you see that pretty cut out under the sentiments, that's our third NEW CutUps, the Gift Card Envie. Not only can you make a gift card with it, but you can do what Jenny did. Take a peek at her tut.

Here's another take on "Best Fishes" by Leigh O'Brien and another look at the yumminess of the Cranberry seam binding with our NEW Anywhere Ribbon Slide. Along with Cranberry, we're bringingin 3 NEW colors, Evergreen, Cornflower, and Tinsel, just in time for the Holidays. And she sprinkled in a couple of snowflakes from the Snowflake Lace Paper CutUps for good measure.

Want to see more? Then check out Julie, Jen, Nancy, Carole, and Swanky Stampers, Kimberly Gajewski and Stephanie Herbert and see how they used "Best Fishes".When you finish at their blogs, head on over to our Forum on SplitcoastStampers and leave a comment on our "In It To Win It!" Thread. You could win the "Best Fishes" stamp set just by leaving a comment!

Sneaky Peek #2

2011-11-23T00:00:00.000-08:00

Day #2

Merry Christmas, Honey

It's the second day of Sneaky Peek Week. And it's Big Bear's turn to come out andplay in this brand NEW set, "Merry Christmas, Honey".

This set and all the sets and CutUps Dies you see in our NEW Fall Collection will be available Nov. 29 on The Cat's Pajamas website.

First, up is Leigh O'Brien.And not only is she showing off "Merry Christmas, Honey" and a snowflake from ourSnowflake Lace Paper, but she's showing off another one of our NEW CutUps, the "AnywhereRibbon Slide" with the tried and true Big Scallop Border. Punched ribbon slides have to be cut on the edge of the paper, with the "Anywhere Ribbon Slide" you can put it anywhere on the paper you are die-cutting, like right above a fancy border like Leigh's done.

And even I couldn't resist the call of "Merry Christmas, Honey". I paper pieced the tree and colored the rest. Really a simple card, when you think about it, fancied up withthe Snowflake Lace Paper CutUps.

Want to see more? Then check out Julie, and Swanky Stampers, Kimberly Gajewski and Stephanie Herbert and see how they used "Merry Christmas, Honey.When you finish head on over to our Forum on SplitcoastStampersand leave a comment on our "In It To Win It!" Thread. You could win the "Merry Christmas, Honey" stamp set just by leaving a comment!

TCP Tuesday 186 and the Weekly Winner

2011-11-22T10:09:00.001-08:00

It's TCP Tuesday and Jen is the Hostess with the Mostess for this week's TCP Tuesday Inspiration Challenge.

Jen always "works" the Inspiration Challenge and this time is no different. Take a peek at her Collage. It's all sorts of snowy goodness layered up with some texture and warm feelings.

What can I say, this challenge called to me so I had to play. I created a transparent card using our Heavy Acetate Sheets. If you haven't tried them, they are super heavy and perfect for card bases. I stamped up the acetate with Stazon Opaque White, and inserted a piece of blue cardstock inside.

Then, I folded white cardstock in half and stamped the bunny from Snow Day (releasing 11/29), colored him and cut him out of the two halves of paper at the same time. (The fold is at the bottom) Then I added adhesive and slipped the card into the fold of the white paper. That way all the adhesive is nicely covered.

A little embossing to the sentiment, tied up with a little silver thread, and I call it done.

How does this collage inspire you? Let's see. Don't forget to add your card to the inlinz button at the bottom of this post.

________________

WEEKLY WINNER

It's Weekly Winner Time! This week's Weekly Winner is Wendy. She played along with us on our TCP Tuesday Sketch Challenge.

Isn't her card funny? Those little bunnys in their little filmstrip just crack me up.

Wendy, please email me for your voucher code

Here are the Deets.

1. Each Tuesday we will give you a challenge.
2. You will have until the end of the month to complete the challenge.

3. Add your entry to the Inlinkz Gallery or upload to the SCS Gallery, using the keyword TCPTUES186 for this week's challenge.

2011-11-22T00:00:00.000-08:00

Day #1
Snow Day

It's the very first day of Sneaky Peek Week. That means that a week from now is the first day you can get all the goodies in this collection on The Cat's Pajamaswebsite.

Ready?! Snow Days features the ever popular Bunny, except this time instead of ridinghis bike, or flying his plane, he's taking advantage of a snow day and engaging in a little horseplay. Or should I say, bunnyplay?

Take a look at this soft and pretty card by Jackie Pedro. Who would've thought that a snowball fight could beso elegant? Did you notice the pretty little snowflakes? They all come from our NEW Snowflake Lace Paper CutUps die. It's our riff on the Doily Die. Not only doesit cut a wonderful lacy doily, but it cuts out 3 different sizes of snowflakes, too. It's like getting four dies in one.

Now take a gander at this card by Susan Liles. I'm loving the color combo here. Very Sugarplum Fairy.

Want to see more? Then check out Leigh, Julie,Lori, Jen, Jenny, and Swanky Stampers, Kimberly Gajewski and Stephanie Herbert and see how they used "Snow Days".When you finish drooling over at their blogs, head on over to our Forum on SplitcoastStampersand leave a comment on our "In It To Win It!" Thread. You could win the "Snow Days" stamp set!Just by leaving a comment!

Come back a little later to see who the weekly winner and what the TCP Tuesday Challenge is.

It's Black Friday!

2011-11-18T01:30:00.000-08:00

Get Sketchy With It

2011-11-17T07:19:00.001-08:00

When I went to "Art School" and they taught me about good design, they said that if you take a good design, you can turn it on its side, rotate it and if it still looks balanced, you have a good design.

A good sketch is the same way, you can rotate it, flip it, turn it on its side and it still works as a good design to base your cards on. And a good sketch doesn't have to be literal. You saw how Leigh, our Hostess with the Mostess, flipped her own sketch to a horizontal layout and used the Cloud Border instead of the filmstrip in the sketch.

How about Amy? She changed out the filmstrip for knitting needles and made her main panels much larger.

Jackie had a Beary good time with this sketch. The gal is the queen of the tilted panel.

And Jen, she stayed true to the sketch, but she used a panel of patterned paper and made the embellishment a heart. Sweet!

And newly crowned Dirty Dozen gal, Julie, she shows off some mad skillz with her pretty little card.

And last but not least, Susan, with her lovely pretty card, or pretty love card.

So have at it Stamper's! Let's see what you can do with our sketch this week. I want to see some mad skillz from you. And you could win a $10 voucher on our website. Word on the street? There's a SALE or two coming up AND a NEW Release on Nov 29. An extra $10 is nothing to sneeze at.

2011-11-15T13:33:00.003-08:00

It's TCP Tuesday and Leigh is the Hostess with the Mostess for this week's TCP Tuesday Sketch Challenge.

Leigh always does such great sketches and this week it's no different. Check out this little ditty. This sketch, like so many of Leigh's sketches can be turned horizontally and flipped.

Take a gander at Leigh's own card here. See what I mean?

But if you want to see an example of the sketch as it's shown here, just take a look at Nancy's card. Instead of the filmstrip action that Leigh has, Nancy uses the Stamp Trio, and runs them separately up and down the side.

And Jenny didn't use a filmstrip, either. She put a nice wide ribbon in its place. So CUTE!

What will you do with this sketch? Don't forget to add your card to the inlinz button at the bottom of this post.

________________

WEEKLY WINNER

And NOW for the Weekly Winner! This week's Weekly Winner is Michelle @ elliotstamps! Michelle @ elliotstamps wins a voucher for $10 on The Cat's Pajamas website. She was randomly chosen from all the cards that were entered in last week's food fight challenge. LOVE how she layered up the scallops on just that one side. It really add to the food theme.

Michelle, please email me for your voucher code.

Here are the Deets.

1. Each Tuesday we will give you a challenge.
2. You will have until the end of the month to complete the challenge.

3. Add your entry to the Inlinkz Gallery or upload to the SCS Gallery, using the keyword TCPTUES185 for this week's challenge.

Support

2011-11-14T09:47:00.001-08:00

Support your local stamp and scrapbook store, or pretty soon they might not be around.

I just wrote the above line and wanted to add a little more to what I think is a pretty strong statement.

My local stamp store is about 40 miles and a couple of toll bridges away. (Toll is about $10 total) My local scrapbook store is about 20 miles and a bridge away ($5 in toll). My local Michael's is 10 miles away.

Truthfully, I must admit that my heart goes a little pitter patter when I see a Michael's coupon. 40% off one item. (Lots of restrictions apply) And yes, my local Michael's is much closer.

But instead of jumping in my car to head over to Michael's I make lists. Lists of stuff that can't be purchased at Michael's, but can only be found at my LSS &S. By not heading over to Michael's once or twice a week, I feel I actually save money in gas and "extras".

And when I make my twice monthly trek over to my LSS&S, I get what is on my lists. Along with other things that can't be purchased at any big box stores or even online: Knowledge. Companionship. And the excitement that comes along when someone else shares the same bit of madness I do. ('Cause let's face it, where else can I get a full on encyclopedia's worth of knowledge about the differences in ink?) Not at the big box stores.

Where can I get ideas and new techniques that the gals at the stamp store have just "discovered"? Where can I get classes to get my creative juices going?

And these stores aren't run by a big corporation, they are run by families and friends. They ARE what the TV calls "the local economy". And unlike so many big corporations, they spend their money in the US, keeping jobs in the US, just when we need them most.

I am so lucky to have places that can do all these things that big box stores can't do. So I'll happily keep making my lists and making my twice monthly treks because they are worth so much more than that Michael's 40% off one item coupon.

2011-11-10T13:03:00.001-08:00

If you didn't see yesterday's post, here is a little reminder of something very special we have going on this Friday, and well, the rest of the Friday's in November.

We decided to start celebrating the start of the Holiday Season a little early. So start making your list, there are only 3 Fridays in November to shop.

Will you get the Good Friends set that Julie used for her TCP Tuesday Food Fight card?

Or maybe you need to get the Go Bananas set that Lori shows off to perfection. Whatever you're choice, 20% off your order is a pretty good reason to get them both.

Black Friday

2011-11-09T11:21:00.000-08:00

I do love a SALE. And I've been told that you love them, too. Especially, around the Holidays.

So, I decided that we should have one. But, then The Cat Pack thought that a couple would be even better. And, I concurred.

So, this Friday, everything on the website, (except the KittyKat Pack and Poochie Pack) will be 20% OFF. And what the heck, every Friday in November, too.

Remember, the SALE is only on Fridays and limited to stock in hand, so start making your list now. And check it twice. Just like Santa.

FOOD FIGHT!

2011-11-08T11:34:00.000-08:00

At least that's what the TCP Tuesday Challenge is for this week. Susan is the Hostess with the Mostess for this week's TCP Tuesday Stamp Challenge and she is gearing up for the holidays already and asking you to use any Cat's Pajamas Stamps that have food in them.

Well, you know I have a great affinity with food, so there are LOTs of our stamps with food in them. But, Susan thinks that might be too easy. So she's adding a twist to the challenge. She wants you to use the Icing CutUps die, too, if you've got it. I like the way the girl thinks.

Check out what I mean. Susan is using PJ from the Give A Little Clear Set and he's got a candy cane and a honey pot in hand.

Leigh knows my heart belongs to anything cake, so her card using A Girl And Her Cake hits the spot.

Nancy totally understands that during the holidays, Candy Canes are one of the basic food groups.

And Jenny uses one of my very favorite stamp sets, Gobble It Up. It's just how I feel come Thanksgiving.

Did you play along in last week's color challenge? Leigh and Amy did. I love that they used the same colors but came up with completely different looks.

________________

WEEKLY WINNER

And NOW for the Weekly Winner! This week's Weekly Winner is Karrie Baker! Karrie wins a voucher for $10 on The Cat's Pajamas website. She was randomly chosen from all the cards that were entered in last week's Color Challenge. She mixed it up a bit with stamps from Bearing Flowers and A Beary Good Year.

Karrie, please email me for your voucher code.

Here are the Deets.

1. Each Tuesday we will give you a challenge.
2. You will have until the end of the month to complete the challenge.

3. Add your entry to the Inlinkz Gallery or upload to the SCS Gallery, using the keyword TCPTUES184 for this week's challenge.

Holiday Colors

2011-11-07T13:10:00.000-08:00

It's the last day to play in our TCP Tuesday Color Challenge to be eligible to be this week's Weekly Winner and win a $10 gift voucher for shopping on our Website.

And, I hear from a good source (yes, that would be me) that there will be a release at the end of the month. So now is a good time to get started on WINNING a gift voucher. 'Cause I am serious when I say, it's awesome.

So here is one last bit of inspiration from Susan, just in time for Thanksgiving using Gobble It Up.

And Jackie, who is already chomping at the bit with her delightful card featuring Define Good. Who would've thought that these were Christmas colors? Jackie, that's who.

Now, what about you?

Color My World

2011-11-04T11:48:00.000-07:00

I have been told many a time that the TCP Color Challenge is a favorite challenge. Our Hostesses always come up with color combos that challenge you. Push you a little. And that is what a challenge is supposed to do.

This week, Lori, is our Hostess with the Mostess and her challenge is no different. She's challenging you to use Red, Marigold and Chocolate. DE-licious.

Jen, thinks it's a yummy challenge, too. She's used A Beary Good Year for her card and he's holding a very large cup of something warm and soothing. Take a peek.

And Julie take a whole different route by combining Admit One and a whole lot of our CutUps dies for a wonderful, sophisticated look. I think I'm really in love with how she ran the Big Ticket CutUps along the width of the card.

Nancy uses patterned papers in a different, and shall I say unusual way to incorporate her colors. This is one I'm definitely going to have to CASE.

Now, what can you do with these colors?

November Project of the Month

2011-11-02T06:30:00.000-07:00

Two words. Adore. Muchly.

Okay. Maybe muchly isn't really a word. But it's how I feel about this is cutie.

Jen del Muro brings cute to a whole new level with her Cutie Cupcake Stand.

And it's not for just birthdays, either. Or for cupcakes, for that matter. Change out the sentiment and I can see them lined up along a table at a wedding. How about placecard at Thanksgiving topped with a little pumpkin and stamped with a lucky someone's name? Martha would be jealous.

Check it out. It's the Project of the Month.

C'mon, go ahead and make Martha jealous.

Note: I had this scheduled to post on Wednesday, but, new Google Blogger didn't do it. ;(
Sorry Jen.

November Swanky Stamper

2011-11-01T14:48:00.000-07:00

Kimberly Gajewski — Swanky Stamper for November

One of the artists whose work I look forward to seeing play in our TCP Tuesday Challenges is Kimberly Gajewski. Her cards always make me smile with her inventive use of color and texture and pattern. Plus, the girl can color up an image like nobody's business.

Take the card on the left that she created for the TCP Tuesday Sketch Challenge. She uses the "in" side of corragated cardboard for her star and her tree paper mimics the pattern of the cardboard. And the way she colors Big Bear, sublime.

The card on the right, done for our Acetate Challenge is just a wonderful mix of layers and patterns. She uses acetate to create that circular window that gives us a peek into a living room of penguins in Round the Chimney.

TCP Tuesday and the Weekly Winner

2011-11-01T13:55:00.000-07:00

It's TCP Tuesday and Lori is the Hostess with the Mostess for this week's TCP Tuesday Color Challenge.

It's Lori's first week as the Hostess and she's jumping in feet first and giving you an awesome color combo. Red, Marigold and Chocolate.

These are perfect anytime colors, but also wonderful Fall colors.

Head on over to Lori's blog and see what I mean.

Then click over to Lori's color partner in crime, Jenny to see what she's come up with. You can bet it's awesome.

________________

WEEKLY WINNER

And NOW for the Weekly Winner! This week's Weekly Winner is Linda Monroe! Linda wins a voucher for $10 on The Cat's Pajamas website. She was randomly chosen from all the cards that were entered in last week's Acetate Challenge. She made this wonderful shaker card using stamps from our Happy Camper stamp set.

Linda, please email me for your voucher code.

Here are the Deets.

1. Each Tuesday we will give you a challenge.
2. You will have until the end of the month to complete the challenge.

3. Add your entry to the Inlinkz Gallery or upload to the SCS Gallery, using the keyword TCPTUES183 for this week's challenge.

Let me be clear

2011-10-31T11:36:00.000-07:00

It's the last day of the month. So it's the very last day to get your entries for the TCP Tuesday Challenges in to be considered for Swanky Stamper.

So if you played along with us during our "Hype the Type" stamp challenge, our Sketch Challenge, Inspiration Challenge, or this week's Acetate Challenge, upload your card and you could be eligible to win a selection of our Winter Collection stamps and dies and play along with us at the Pajamas Party and Blog Hop. And, if you want, Sneaky Peek Week.

So let's recap the challenges.

In our first challenge of the Month, Susan challenged you to "Hype the Type". She challenged you to use our Alphabet and Word stamps in a new way.

Then Leigh challenged you with a Star-Studded Sketch! This one was so fun, I had to play along, myself.

Then Jen rocked it out with this Rock n' Roll Inspiration Collage. A really challenging collage with lots of different ways to inspire you.

Our last TCP Tuesday Challenge for this month, is Julie's Supply/Technique Challenge! She's challenging you to use Acetate on your card or project. And there have been some really wonderful entries for this one.

Check out Jen's take on this challenge using Sheepish. I have a hard time cutting through regular sheet acetate with our more detailed CutUps, so inquiring minds want to know what kind of acetate she used. 'Cause I just may want to steal....er..um use this idea in the future. ;)

Then hop on over to Nancy's blog where she used one of my favorite stamp sets, Jingle Bells. And she used our Snowflake CutUps, too. Come on gals, tell me your secret.

Okay back to business. You have until midnight pst to upload a card into your Splitcoast gallery, with appropriate code, OR you can upload your cards on this blog under the appropriate challenge. I can't wait to see what you come up with. The suspense is killing me.

I can see clearly now

2011-10-26T10:43:00.001-07:00

As some people like to say, "I'm in the throes of it". Right now, it being drawing the Winter Collection. I'm almost done, I just need to set a little type that is worthy of the sentiments that our very own Carole Burrage has written for this collection. And she has got some AWESOME ones!

In the meantime, I'll leave you with a couple of links to some abSOLutely delicious eye candy that The Cat Pack just whipped up for the TCP Tuesday Acetate challenge.

First. Leigh O'Brien. What can I say? The gal can stamp. She can take ANYthing and literally wave her hands around and create magic. Check her post out, you'll see what I mean.

Then, Lori Tecler adds acetate to her card in a really different way. You have to look carefully, though. I missed it on first glance.

Now what can you do with acetate?

TCP Tuesday 182, and the Weekly Winner!

2011-10-25T10:28:00.000-07:00

It's TCP Tuesday and Julie is the Hostess with the Mostess for this week's TCP Tuesday Supply Challenge.

This week Julie is challenging you to use Acetate in your card or project.

"Huh?" You say? That plastic stuff? Yuppers. Acetate is just like paper, only clear. "DUH" you say? That means that anything you can do with paper, you can do with acetate, and more.

Check out Julie's card. She uses acetate in her shaker card so that you can really see all the glitz shimmer of the glitter. I love that she stamped on it, too. Take a peek.

Amy uses acetate as a base for her card. It's so classy and oh so special.

What can you do with acetate?

________________
WEEKLY WINNER

And NOW for the Weekly Winner! This week's Weekly Winner is Melissa Hubert! Melissa wins a voucher for $10 on The Cat's Pajamas website. She was randomly chosen from all the cards that were entered in last week's Inspiration Challenge. Love her take on the challenge. She was inspired by the colors in the Inspiration Collage. Just beautiful.

Melissa, please email me for your voucher code.

Here are the Deets.

1. Each Tuesday we will give you a challenge.
2. You will have until the end of the month to complete the challenge.

3. Add your entry to the Inlinkz Gallery or upload to the SCS Gallery, using the keyword TCPTUES182 for this week's challenge.

Recovery

2011-10-24T10:50:00.000-07:00

Have you been rocking and rolling this weekend? I know Lori has. And she has a different take on the Inspiration challenge. Her card does both. And with STYLE! (cue the harps)

I'm still recovering from yesterday's Rubber Stamp Convention in San Jose. I was working the American Art Stamp/Gourmet Rubber booth. And I brought our Fall Collection and our line of CutUps Dies. Of course, I forgot to bring the Big Top CutUps. So those of you who prepaid for your Big Top CutUps at the show, they are ready to be popped in the mail as we speak. So I'll make this post a short one.

At the show, I remembered what made going to rubber stamp conventions so exciting. Not only was it was a great place to meet up with friends who actually know what I'm talking about when I say "masking" or "distressing" (in a good way) or debate with me about the whole unmounted versus mounting thing.

But, I realized, it's all about the discovery. Discovering new stamps and stamp companies and discovering new techniques.

My friend Robert, the owner of American Art Stamp and Gourmet Rubber was actually working the demo table. It was only the third time he demoed in his life and he was having so much fun playing with the stamps and Smooch spritzers. And he was good. He was all about discovering how they worked and sharing with the stampers who gathered around his table what he was discovering while he played.

And as I was watching him I realized that our times for discovery at stamp conventions could be at an end. With so many stamp companies having to tighten their belts, it's hard to shell out the money for the booth fees and traveling costs, so the shows are getting smaller and smaller. It's so important to support these conventions when they come to your town, otherwise, not only is there a possibility the conventions might disappear, but the stamp companies, too. And our time with friends and our time for discovery.

So if there is a stamp convention coming to your town, go to it. It just may make to remember how fun it is to discover new things.

Meow!

2011-10-20T07:45:00.000-07:00

Lots going on here at the Casa de Gatito. But, nothing I can share just yet. ;)

In the meantime, are you rocking out with our Inspiration Challenge? There is lots to be inspired by!

Take Amy's card, for example. She is spinning up some wonderful goodness with her card. And spinning is the right term, too, when you see the stamp she used.

Julie turns up the volume with her super fun card. I love all the detail she added with the wigs and all. Have I gotten your attention, yet? Yes, I said "wigs"

Now go and stamp!

PS. I'll be at the RUBBER STAMP convention this Sunday in San Jose, working the American Art Stamp/Gourmet Rubber booth. I'm bringing our NEW Release and our CutUps dies and I just might possibly be giving out FREE stuff with a purchase. Come by and say "Meow!" Support our rubber stamp conventions. There are so few of them left.

TCP Tuesday 181, and the Weekly Winner!

2011-10-18T11:59:00.000-07:00

It's TCP Tuesday and Jen is the Hostess with the Mostess for this week's TCP Tuesday Inspiration Challenge. And check out her inspiration collage for this week!

Does the smell of hair spray get you excited? How about scarves? Got a whole drawer of them? Do you use your hairbrush for something more than brushing hair.

Then you get it. Jen is challenging you to put a little rock in your roll and CREATE!

Want to know what I mean? Then strut on over and take a look at Jen's card, and you'll see what I mean.

Jenny totally can relate. Check out her spin on this challenge.

Leigh took her inspiration from the colors in the Inspiration Collage. Such a striking card.

And striking up the band is this cutie from Nancy! It had me at "Hola!"

Now are YOU ready to Rock and ROLL!? I want to see what you come up with.

________________
WEEKLY WINNER

And NOW for the Weekly Winner! This week's Weekly Winner is Jen Carvajal! Jen wins a voucher for $10 on The Cat's Pajamas website. She was randomly chosen from all the cards that were entered in last week's Sketch Challenge. Such a fun card with all the different papers!

Jen, please email me for your voucher code.

Here are the Deets.

1. Each Tuesday we will give you a challenge.
2. You will have until the end of the month to complete the challenge.

3. Add your entry to the Inlinkz Gallery or upload to the SCS Gallery, using the keyword TCPTUES181 for this week's challenge.

Wendy Bond

2011-10-13T06:14:00.000-07:00

When I chose Wendy Bond to be Swanky Stamper, I knew that she was good, but she totally blew me away this week.

Like this card featuring Oh Chute! Her choice of papers and paper piecing are just FAB! Then add the "shadow" she put under the cloud by layering a different color paper. This is one I'm going to have to do myself. And is anyone else in love with her color combo?

And how about the color combo in this card? It's so fresh. And she stamps those tickets like no body's business. ADORE!

And speaking of adore, I adore this card using Bearing Presents. All the layering of paper and diecuts to create a winter scene just takes my breath away. Take a minute or two to really appreciate the detail in this card.

And how about how Wendy used the "throw away" part of the Circus Border? That's a great way to get double use from your CutUps Dies. And something else amazing? She used the megaphone from the Step Right Up set as the lights there in the corner. Then she added the vellum for the lights. I'm telling you, the gal's got mad skills. I love to see an artist just play!

And I am so grateful that she used them to show off our NEW Fall Collection. Thank you, Wendy, and thank you, Maggie for being a part of Sneaky Peek Week!

InLinkz.com

The Day After!

2011-10-12T09:30:00.000-07:00

It's the morning after our new release and I'm exhausted. But a good exhausted.

If you've been with us during Sneaky Peek Week and yesterday's Blog Hop, you'll know that The Cat Pack really knocked it out of the park. And they were joined by past Swanky Stampers, Maggie Haas, and Wendy Bond.

And those gals were fab! I loved their cards so much I thought I'd show them here. Today, I'll show off Maggie's cards, and tomorrow, Wendy's. These gals really deserve a whole post to themselves. ;)

Like this super cute card using Step Right Up! How cute is this? I love all the bright colors and the mix of stars with the button. And the Circus Border CutUps Die tucked under there? Sweet!

I'm just bananas about this card that she stamps the monkeys from Go Bananas! Across three panels? Wow! And the bananas stamped across the back panel for extra texture? Double Wow! And that monkey paper is perfect. The teeth just crack me up.

I think this is my favorite card, though. She uses "Oh Chute" and it's a completely different looking card than the rest of her wonderful creations. So soft and pretty, I love how the parachute echos the shape of the circles behind it. Brilliant.

This was Maggie's card for the Blog Hop! All the paper piecing and patterns working together, it makes my heart so happy!

Thank you Maggie for joining us! It was a joy to see you play with our Fall Collection!

Oh Chute	Step Right Up	Go Bananas
Big Top	Circus Border	Cloud Border CutUps Die

InLinkz.com

TCP Tuesday 180, the Weekly Winner, the New Release Blog Hop

2011-10-10T21:00:00.000-07:00

Wow. That's a great big long title. And this post is jam-packed full of all sorts of goodness. So let's start with Blog Hop and TCP Tuesday. Leigh is our Hostess with the Mostess this week and she has got one fun sketch this week.

We are also releasing our Fall Collection today! So The Cat Pack is planning one doozy of a Blog Hop. So if you got to my blog from Julie's blog, you are at the end of the Hop. If you want to start at the very beginning, (and why would you not?) Hop on over to Leigh's blog.

Now when I said this was a fun sketch, I meant it. It really has so many possiblities, and if you've been hopping along, you know I'm right.

So this is my take on Leigh's FAB sketch. I used one of clowns in the Clownin' Around set and paired it with the Circus Panels CutUps and the Cloud Border. Yup, that's the Cloud Border that I cut apart. That die has so many uses.

I have to say that the Clownin Around set is one of my favorites. It was so fun to draw. I had in my mind what I wanted the penguins to do and I just kept drawing and drawing. I love this set!

(Sorry about the lighting, but it's been raining here in San Francisco and the clouds parted just long enough to take this picture.)

________________

WEEKLY WINNER

Ready for the Weekly Winner? This week's Weekly Winner is Stephanie Herbert! Stephanie wins a voucher for $10 on The Cat's Pajamas website.

Stephanie, please email me for your voucher code.

Here are the Deets.

1. Each Tuesday we will give you a challenge.
2. You will have until the end of the month to complete the challenge.

3. Add your entry to the Inlinkz Gallery or upload to the SCS Gallery, using the keyword TCPTUES180 for this week's challenge.

Fall Sneaky Peek #7

2011-10-10T08:42:00.000-07:00

Day #7
Clownin' Around

It's Day #7 of Sneaky Peek Week! That means that tomorrow is the day our Fall Collection will be available on our website.

I hope you like what you've been seeing because, let me tell you, this collection has been as fun to play with as a barrel of monkeys. And speaking of monkeys, our last stamp set features our roly poly friends, the penguins, as what else, clowns. I don't know about you, but clowns always creeped me out, just a little, so I thought I'd exorcise the clown stigma with a little penguin fun.

Nancy Thomas gets the idea with this colorful card. Even the car gets into the act in this set. And look at how she used the Circus Panels to make a circusy border. Genius!

This set is packed full of stamps. 3 main stamps plus sayings, AND accessories galore. Jenny Peterson doesn't hold back in this card. You can tell she had a lot of fun playing while she put this beauty together. Check out the double Circus Border at the bottom of the card.

Have you ever tried to make one of those fancy foldout cards, but didn't know what to put on them? I suspect, with all the images in this set, mixed and matched with the Big Top, Big Ticket and Circus Panels CutUps dies, Amy Rohl had no problem. What a really fun card.

Want to see more of "Clownin' Around"? I know Susan has more fun to show you. She was so inspired that she decided to take her family to....the circus. Now I feel complete.

Then head on over to our In It To Win It thread in our forum at SplitcoastStampers. You could win the "Clownin Around" stamp set or any of the other stamp set we are previewing this week. Winners are announced each day on each of the Sneaky Peek threads.

And while you are there, you are invited to our Pajama Party to celebrate this fun collection. From 5:00-7:00 PST or 8-10 EST you are invited to join us on this thread for more Sneaky Peeks, Games and Giveaways.

Fall Sneaky Peeks #6

2011-10-09T08:29:00.000-07:00

Day #6
Presto!

It's Day #6 of Sneaky Peek Week! That means there is only one more peeks before the entire collection will be available on our website on October 11.

Monkeys just make me smile. They are forever silly and never afraid to express themselves. This set is like that. Silly and just waiting for you to express yourself.

Amy Rohl knows it's a jungle out there, and still creates a card that doesn't monkey around. She mixes coloring and simple paper piecing. And check out that texture under the sentiment. Yup, that's burlap. Our CutUps cut through even that. Love that look.

How about this card by Susan Liles? She's a gal after my own heart. (Meaning I wish I could create cards like her). The image just needs a little color and it's good to go. You can really go simple with this set or go to town.

Nancy Thomas really expresses herself with this colorful card. She puts the two monkeys in the collection hanging from their tails. This set is a perfect anytime set for anyone. Or any monkey. Do you know any? I definitely know quite a few. And they know who they are.

Want to see more of "Go Bananas"? Check out Jen, and Maggie. I know you'll be bananas if you didn't.

Then head on over to our In It To Win It thread in our forum at SplitcoastStampers. You could win the "Go Bananas" stamp set or any of the other stamp set we are previewing this week. Winners are announced each day on each of the Sneaky Peek threads.

Fall Sneaky Peeks #5

2011-10-08T08:00:00.000-07:00

Day #5
Presto!

It's Day #5 of Sneaky Peek Week! That means there are only 2 more peeks before the entire collection will be available on our website on October 11.

Today that cheeky bunny makes another appearance. This time he's magical. So magical, he's pulling himself out of a hat. Now that's talent.

Speaking of talent, take a look at this wonderful card by Jen del Muro. This card is simple, but powerful. And the bling on the Circus Panel makes it look like a marquee. So clever and cute.

Amy Rohl created this awesome card, only this time she paper pieced the bunny and colored him. He doesn't need much to make him extra special. And here, Amy layers two of the Circus Panels CutUps for a whole new look. Presto! A really great look, easy peasy.

If you really want to color the bunny, like Jenny Peterson has, you most certainly can. Here she's colored him grey. Isn't his dark grey nose so cute? And she's using the other side of the Circus Border CutUps as a scalloped border. The great thing about our border CutUps dies is that we really pay attention to what's being cut away. It's like getting two dies for the price of one.

Want to see more of "Presto"? Check out Jackie, and Julie. Believe me when I tell you that they make a little magic of their own.

Then head on over to our In It To Win It thread in our forum at SplitcoastStampers. You could win the "Presto" stamp set or any of the other stamp set we are previewing this week. Winners are announced each day on each of the Sneaky Peek threads.

__________________

Get Our Fall Collection Before Anyone Else!

Scrapper's Boutique at 6714 Smithfield Road, Suite 2, in North Richmond Hills in Texas is having a Pajama Party of their own today! You can get our complete Fall Collection there. I hear there will be prizes. Wonder if there will be cake.

Today, I will be at Mainely Stampin' at 1318 W. Texas in Fairfield, California. And not only will the complete collection be there, but, I'll be doing a Make and Take starting at 3:00. Hope to see you there!

Fall Sneaky Peeks #4

2011-10-07T09:00:00.000-07:00

Day #4
Oh Chute!

It's Day #4 of Sneaky Peek Week and we couldn't let another day go by without showing off one of these darling bunnies. The entire collection, will be available on our website on October 11. Can't wait until then? The complete collection could be at your LSS this weekend.

We call this Clear Stamp Set, "Oh Chute". And for very good reason. What I love about this bunny is that, if you are a little lazy, like moi, you can keep him white. And then just add a color here and there for the shading.

If you are more industrious, like Carole Burrage, you can color the sweet bunny any color you want. And do whatever you wish to the parachute. Sky's the limit, dontcha know? Pun intended.

Like this arty card by Nancy Thomas. She colored the bunny and even gave him a blue nose and a fluffy tail. The stamp set not only comes with the bunny, but also that sweet little ribbon banner and several sayings that you can use as is, or bend them to stamp inside the banner. The flexibility of our clear stamps makes it possible to bend the sayings to fit almost any curve.

And if you want whimsical, this set can do whimsical. Lori Tecler made my jaw drop with this card. Not only is her bunny colored well, but the dimension in this card makes it extra special. See that little bit of the Circus Border peeking out from behind the sentiment? Sweet!

And I love the design of the card. The design is this week's sketch at Card Positioning Systems, one of the premiere sketch sites on the web. This week, The Cat's Pajamas is the sponsor, so if you post a card to their site using the sketch on Card Positioning Systems, you are eligible for a $25 Shopping Spree!

Want to see more of "Oh Chute"? Check out Leigh, Jackie and Jenny, and Swanky Stampers, Maggie Haas and Wendy Bond and see how they used "Oh Chute".

Then head on over to our In It To Win It thread in our forum at SplitcoastStampers. You could win the "Oh Chute" stamp set or any of the other stamp set we are previewing this week. Winners of the sets are announced each day on each of the Sneaky Peek threads.

__________________

Get Our Fall Collection Before Anyone Else!

Scrapper's Boutique at 6714 Smithfield Road, Suite 2, in North Richmond Hills in Texas is having a Pajama Party of their own this Friday and Saturday! You can get our complete Fall Collection there. Word on the street is that their Friday crop is full, but there are some open seats for their Saturday crop.

This Saturday, I will be at Mainely Stampin' at 1318 W. Texas in Fairfield, California. And not only will the complete collection be there, but, I'll be doing a Make and Take starting at 3:00. Hope to see you there!

Fall Sneaky Peeks #3

2011-10-06T08:00:00.000-07:00

Day #3
Step Right Up

It's Day #3 of Sneaky Peek Week and we are so excited to be showing this next set featuring PJ the Bear. We give PJ a couple of options in this set to decide what he wants to be. A Magician, a Ringmaster, or an Animal Trainer. Whatever you decide he should be, he is impeccably dressed, right down to his cheeky mustache.

Love the colors and textures of this card by Nancy Thomas. She mixes a couple of our New CutUps Dies with some of our old favorites. Can you spot the fourth CutUps in this happy card?

Well, how about this sweet altered Bingo card by Amy Rohl? The gal can really paper piece. Did you guess the fourth CutUps? It's the Big Top, and I just love it. The cut lines of the tent, make it easy to paper piece to your heart's content. And you can see all three of the Circus Panels CutUps together. LOVE!
And how about one more sweet treat? This little treat bag holds the perfect treat. And what better topper than this one by Leigh O'Brien? So very cute and wonderfully colored. YUM!

Want to see more? Then check out Julie, Susan , Jenny, and Swanky Stampers, Maggie Haas and Wendy Bond and see how they used "Step Right Up".

Then head on over to our In It To Win It thread in our forum on SplitcoastStampers. You could win the "Step Right Up" stamp set or any of the other stamp set we are previewing this week. Winners are announced each day on the Sneaky Peek threads.

SplitcoastStampers is having a month long campaign to bring help awareness to the illness of Breast Cancer. Participate in their challenges and you could win any number of prizes, including a Shopping Spree at The Cat's Pajamas!

Steve Jobs 1955-2011

2011-10-05T19:58:00.000-07:00

Is it wrong to feel sadness for the passing of a man I never met? I never knew Steve Jobs, but his vision and striving to change the status quo helped to shape me as a person and as an artist. He challenged us to look at things differently and to ask ourselves "What if?"

Rest in Peace.

Sneaky Peek #2

2011-10-05T08:00:00.000-07:00

Day #2
Bearing Presents

It's the second day of Sneaky Peek Week! I love Sneaky Peek Week because after weeks of keeping my mouth shut about everything that's new, I finally get to show you why I'm so excited and all the great creations The Cat Pack have designed. There are 5 more days of Sneaky Peeks before the New Stamp Sets and Dies are available on The Cat's Pajamas website.

Take this cute card by Jenny Peterson. I love that she made the bear's paws dimensional and the ribbon hanging outside of the box. And while you are at it, check the bow. ADORABLE!

Now look at this cute card by Lori Tecler. The same stamp set and sentiment, but a whole different feeling. I love how this set can go from every day, to birthdays and then the Holidays.

Not only is this set perfect for paper piecing, but coloring, too! Julie Masse's CAS card really shows this off to perfection, as well as one of our New CutUps Dies, Circus Panels. You get 3 nesting dies in the Circus Panels CutUps, but what I love about them is that you can snap them apart and place them anywhere on the page to cut little windows for sentiments or anything you want. The possibilities.....well, you get the picture.

Want to see more? Check out Carole, Nancy and Jen, and Swanky Stampers, Maggie Haas and Wendy Bond and see how they used "Bearing Presents".

Then head on over to our Forum on SplitcoastStampers and leave a comment on our In It To Win It thread. You could win the "Bearing Presents" stamp set or any of the other stamp set we are previewing this week.

TCP Tuesday 179, the Weekly Winner, and Sneaky Peek Week

2011-10-04T09:00:00.000-07:00

Not only is it TCP Tuesday, but it's the start of Sneaky Peek Week. That means that a week from now is the first day you can get all the goodies in this collection on The Cat's Pajamas website. This is a really long post, so let's begin!

The first stamp set on the agenda is "Admit One". When Je n del Muro first approached me with the idea for this ticket die and stamp set, she said to make it big. So I did. This set has 28, yes, 28 stamps in the set. We think that's a pretty good deal. And it works perfectly with the Big Ticket CutUps die. There are so many ways to use this set and die... well, let me stop talking, and get you looking.

Just check out this sweet creation by Amy Rohl. She mixes and matches our Babydoll and Nightie Alphabets with "Admit One" and stamps up some wonderful goodness on the Big Ticket CutUps Die. Sweet! And do I spy a couple more of our NEW CutUps, as well?....Hmm. Can you spot them?

I can tell that Julie Masse had a lot of fun creating this invitation and matching goodie bags. I love that you can get really detailed or stay simple and graphic, and still create a wonderful lookingpiece. Did I mention that the Big Ticket CutUps Die is perforated at each end of the ticket? It's a cool way to get texture in your designs.

Now take a gander at this card by Susan Liles. Love, love, LOVE that she chose papers and inks that totally changed the look of this set. She took the Big Ticket CutUps die and cut thorough chipboard to create a wonderful embellishment.

Want to see more? Then check out Carole, Nancy, Lori, Jen, Jenny, and Swanky Stampers, Maggie Haas and Wendy Bond and see how they used "Admit One".

Now you know I didn't forget that it's TCP Tuesday! Susan is the Hostess with the Mostess for this week's TCP Tuesday Stamp Challenge.

And Susan wants you to "Hype the Type" That's right. Susan wants you to create a card or project where the TYPE is the focal point of the design. You just got a gander at how the Cat Pack hypes the type, now let's see what you can do. I know you can do it. Then just use the inlinkz feature at the bottom of the post to add your card.

Then, head on over to our Forum on SplitcoastStampers and leave a comment on our "In It To Win It!" Thread. You could win the "Admit One" stamp set! All by leaving a comment!

________________

WEEKLY WINNER

Ready for the Weekly Winner! This week's Weekly Winner is Kimberly Gajewski! Kimberly wins a voucher for $10 on The Cat's Pajamas website. And just in time, too! She was randomly chosen from all the cards that were entered in last week's Color Challenge. Love the mix of patterns!

Kimberly, please email me for your voucher code.

Here are the Deets.

1. Each Tuesday we will give you a challenge.
2. You will have until the end of the month to complete the challenge.

3. Add your entry to the Inlinkz Gallery or upload to the SCS Gallery, using the keyword TCPTUES179 for this week's challenge.

Project of the Month

2011-10-03T08:35:00.001-07:00

Best Witches Broom Candy Sack

Whew! That's a mouthful. But it packs a whallop, don't it? Cat Packer Jackie Pedro sweeps us off our feet with this witchy "Best Witches Broom Candy Sack".

Filled with your favorite candy, it's quick and easy and sure to cast a spell on hungry little witches and warlocks. And maybe even a couple that are not so little. It's our October Project of the Month.

You can download the instructions at The Cat's Pajamas website. And just like all of our Projects of the Month, they're FREE.

October Swanky Stamper

2011-10-02T10:01:00.000-07:00

Stephanie Hubert— Swanky Stamper for October

Sometimes a card just speaks to you. It transports you to another time and place and the images are so vivid that you can almost smell the air and feel it swirl around you.

That's what this card by Stephanie Hubert does. It takes me to a crisp Fall day, where the pumpkins are in the field waiting to be picked by a little boy or girl to be "their" pumpkin. It takes me to a country road where the leaves have turned and have fallen. Where the smell of freshly cut things and rain is in the air.

Yup, a great card, can do all these things.

Stephanie Hubert— Swanky Stamper for October

Again, there were a crazy number of cards that made my job of picking Swanky Stamper harder. Take this card by Chris Veneruso. She used the stamps from Hello Pumpkin for this cutie of a card. She used the sketch from TCP Tuesday. I LOVE that she made candy corn from pennants and used them! They just crack me up.

Diana from Missouri, made my heart soar with this pretty fall card. I think her embellie made with our Flower Buttons CutUps, and twine is just the sweetest thing.

Then look at this pretty little card by Bonnie Sharp. I'm loving what she is doing with the snowflakes. They are just crazy cute.

And Kimberly Gajewski's card is pretty sweet, too. Love her color combo and attention to detail. See how she lines up the stripes at the bottom? The gal's got mad skills, I tell you!

Thank you, everyone who played along with our TCP Tuesday challenges. We'll be doing another one on Tuesday, which just happens to be the very first day of our Sneaky Peek Week. ;)

Can't wait until Tuesday for a challenge? Check out Card Positioning Systems for a truly awesome sketch. This week's sketch is sponsored by The Cat's Pajamas. And if you play along, you could win a Shopping Spree from our website. Perfect timing, don't you think?

Or head on over to SplitcoastStampers! They are doing challenges up the you know what, all during the month of October for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. And there are prizes, and prizes, and prizes. You get the picture.

One More Day!

2011-10-01T11:25:00.000-07:00

There are so many people uploading cards today for the challenges. It must be because of National CardMaking day. So in honor of the day, I'm extending the cut off time to be considered for the lauded title of Swanky Stamper. You have until the end of the day to post your cards and be eligible for Swanky Stamper of the Month.

In the meantime, check out Gourmet Rubber Stamps. They have licensed a lot of images from those awesome Gals at Lizzie Anne, AND they are giving you 25% off your order if you enter the code OCT25. It's good until the end of October. CRAZY Good.

But, don't forget to save a little for our NEW Release on Oct 11, 'cause there are some pretty awesome goodies to be had then, I must say.

Juicy, Juicy

2011-09-30T09:15:00.001-07:00

The weekend is almost here and it's time to play! If you haven't played along in our TCP Tuesday Color Challenge, you really should.

October is just around the bend, and it's time to stamp up some Halloween cards. Plum purple, pear green and smokey grey are the perfect combo for that.

Check out Susan's card she uses the colors, but goes a shade lighter. And I do say, these colors make for the cutest little witch. At least Susan makes her so.

Then Nancy pulls out a Beary Good Year for her sweet card. That is one versatile set, and one super cute card.

Not in the mood to do Halloween? Well, how about Fall? These colors are soooo juicy, they are perfect for a Fall card, too! Think grapes bursting in their skins and juicy plums!

YUMM!

TCP Tuesday 178 & the Weekly Winner

2011-09-27T11:26:00.000-07:00

It's TCP Tuesday and Jenny is the Hostess with the Mostess for this week's TCP Tuesday Color Challenge.

She wants you to make something using Plum Purple, Pear Green and Smokey Grey. All really juicy colors, don't you think? Pretty challenging, too. But, the Cat Pack came through with flying colors.

Lori is thinking of Halloween with these colors. And I don't blame her. Even though Orange and Black are traditional Halloween colors, purple, and green are quickly becoming a fun alternative. LOVE that.

Jackie said that these colors frightened her, but you wouldn't know it from her wonderful card. So PRETTY!

Jen puts a spell on me with her delightful card! I love her mix of patterns and textures. She's magic.

Did you get a chance to play in last week's Supply challenge? Julie, challenged you to make a Seam Binding Rose. The first time you make them, they are a little hard, but they get easier each time you make one.

And they are all occasion, too! Take a look at how Jen uses her rose. Just love it on her Halloween goodie bag.

________________
WEEKLY WINNER

Ready for the Weekly Winner! This week's Weekly Winner is Maureen Wong! Maureen wins a voucher for $10 on The Cat's Pajamas website. She was randomly chosen from all the cards that were entered in last week's Supply Challenge. I love that she added a pearl to the center of her flower. It really is quite beautiful

Maureen, please email me for your voucher code.

Here are the Deets.

1. Each Tuesday we will give you a challenge.
2. You will have until the end of the month to complete the challenge.

3. Add your entry to the Inlinkz Gallery or upload to the SCS Gallery, using the keyword TCPTUES178 for this week's challenge.