symmetry

Favors For The Men

Men are SO difficult to please!

Haha!  Actually I just couldn't figure out how to incorporate the sports or the tools into the shower.  It was just a difficult aspect for me, so I went the safe route.  Plants.

The theme of the shower was an organic nature/bird theme, so plants seemed to go nicely.  I would have loved to plant some in an egg shell, but I ran short on time.  SO this is what I ended up with. 

I love that these were simple and yet, who doesn't love flowers!  I plan on transplanting mine to the yard, but they are pretty in the vase as well.

I left the vases as is, but I thought about rub-ons, stencils, textured paint, stamps!  You name it, the ideas are countless. 

I added some ribbon and a thank you tag, and easy peasy a fun favor!

Another thing I love about plants is that you can use them as part of your decor for nearly any occasion!

I can't wait to show the cute Bitty Boxes I made! 

Happy stamping!

School Scrapbook

Okay, you deserve it!  I haven't posted many projects lately, but I've been busy at work.  Here is a peek at my latest scrapbook.

I had a client request a couple albums for her boys.  She requested basic albums with a touch of personality.  The first boy is more adventurous and the second is into sports.  I didn't want to incorpoate anything that would conflict with their own personal experiences, so I left them stylish, but simple.

I made all the 13 years pages the same layout.  The front page is to hold the graduation photo.  The top label (I erased) had the child's name printed on it.  The bottom strip is actually a pocket, with a journaling label.

I added some cork sheet cutouts to add some well-known school texture.  The color adds a touch of flair as well.

I did use my Cricut to cut a few embellishments, but everything else is Stampin' Up.  The center mat is 5x7 here, and the two side mats could be used for photos or memorabilia like a tassel.

Here is a two page spread.  I had three page color combos that I alternated.  It keeps it flowing without becoming too drab. 

On this album, I sponged the edges for an aged look.  I'm not sure if you can tell, but the stars album is glittered.

When I design a scrapbook, (after consulting with the client, of course) I think of the bigger picture first.  I look at what I want the whole album to be, then break it down by element.  For instance, I knew that I needed a title, a pocket, and a photo mat on each page.  Then I look at adding embellishments using the rule of threes.

Oh!  I almost forgot to mention that the journaling mat is actually a pocket.  This leaves room for special momentos such as report cards.  Obviously this is the a very basic school album, but now I wish I had one for me. 

I hope you enjoyed my school scrapbook.  Happy stamping! 

Travel Log

Just checking in!  I've had a long week, visiting with family, moving my room, etc.  It's hard having my stamp room apart.  Hopefully I'll get things back in order by Monday. 

I hope you've all had a good week.  This card is a favorite of mine from the new set, Travel Log.  You'll find it in the summer mini catalog. 

Have a good weekend!

Sail Away

Summer is here!  Wow it's been hot out.  I here we're going to be tipping 100 here this week.  That's Kansas weather I guess.  By Friday it'll be back in the 70s.

This is another gorgeous swap card.  Mine may not be quite as nice as the original, but I tried.  I love the thought of sailing.  Being in the midwest, we don't have a whole lot of that. The sun was made by sponging ink inside a mask.

The Goods: Stamps- Sail Away, Best Dad Ever; Paper- Early Espresso, Cherry Cobbler, Baja Breeze, Whisper White, Sahara Sand; Ink- Daffodil Delight, Early Espresso, Cherry Cobbler, Baja Breeze; Misc- Cherry/White Baker's Twine, Mask, Spritzer, Sponge.

Off to relax!  Have a good one!

Ships Ahoy!

Hello mates!

I love this new set!  I just keep thinking of all the fun events and pages I can use it for, not to mention these adorable cards. 

These were a couple of swaps from last weekend.  I plan on sharing all the beautiful cards I received in time. 

The Open Sea is available on page 9 in the Summer Mini Catalog.  Shoot me an email if you would like a catalog.  I can get one in the mail for you.

The Goods: Stamps- The Open Sea, Razzle Dazzle; Paper- Whisper White, Cherry Cobbler, Soft Suede, Basic Gray, Not Quite Navy, Sahara Sand, Nautical Expedition DSP; Ink- Cherry Cobbler, Soft Suede, Not Quite Navy, Sahara Sand, Misc- Metallic Brads, Scallop Circle Die, Big Shot, Circle Punches, Scallop Edge Border Punch, Cherry/White Bakers Twine, Word Window Punch

I'll share May specials with you tomorrow. 

Science Party Invite

I shared this a few posts ago, and I wanted to update it, but I thought I'd share the inside as well. 

Party Planning Tip:

I love the colors here, and when I get to the party pics, you'll see why.  I based the color choice on the plates I used.  I have found after a few years of party planning that if you pick your theme, especially plates first, then its easier to design everything else.

For more information on this card see this post.

 
I found a cute little science guy pic that I was able to resize, cut out and then color.  It was a little work, but I only needed a handful of them.   Everything else I free handed.

  I couldn't find template, so I drew up another one.  One is in pieces so you can see the two colors.  The reason I decided to make 2 parts that only slightly overlap was because if they were not lined up perfectly, the white part would show under the color. 

Happy stamping!

Birdie Occasions Swaps

I was sad to miss the Shoe Box Swap this month, but I did get to participate.  I'm not sure who created all of them, but I do love them all! 

I love birds, and I love the Nature Walk set in the Occasions Mini. 

The lattice background makes this card.  The pearls on the tag also add a fresh touch.

Jeanine made this card.  It has such a soft balance to it.  Definitely a fave!

The Goods: Stamps- Silhouette Sentiments, Nature Walk; Paper- Very Vanilla, Crumb Cake, Soft Suede, Baja Breeze, Pear Pizzazz, Elegant Soiree DSP; Ink- Soft Suede; Misc- Neutrals Brads, Sponge, Victoria Crochet Trim, Vintage Wallpaper Embossing Folder, Basic Pearls, Two-step Bird Punch, Pear Stitched-Poly Ribbon, Linen Thread, Lattice Die, Big Shot, Scallop Trim Border Punch, Jewelry Tag Punch.

 

Remember, the Occasions Mini ends April 30th, and Sale-A-Bration ends March 31st.  Email me if you'd like to earn free stamps!

Science Lab Party

I just held my son's 5th bithday party and it was a riot! 

He had asked me for a science party, which has to be one of the more difficult parties I've ever thrown.  The kids all had a blast.  (All 18 of them!)  Call me crazy, having that many children in one room, but it went well.

This is invitation I designed.  There's not a whole lot to do with science, but I'll add a photo album of the party once I get the pics edited.   I free-handed the bottles, and used my white gel pen to make bubbles.  The wire was just an old scrap I had. 

The Goods: Stamps-Lots of Thoughts (retired); Paper- Green Galore (retired), Pacific Point, Whisper White, Real Red, Tangerine Tango, Yoyo Yellow (retired); Inks-Basic Black; Misc-1/2", 3/4", and 1 1/4" circle punches, Square Lattice Embossing Folder, Wire scrap, White gel pen

I didn't think about it.  I'll find my template for the bottles for you to add here tomorrow.  Have a good one!

Time to Fall Back!

Don't forget to set your clocks back!  We gain an hour today... mine usually ends up sleep.  But what mother doesn't appreciate that!

Time is flyin' by this year!  I can't believe my youngest is almost 3 now! 

I've been working on invitations this weekend and thought I'd share them today.

We are having 2 parties for him this year.  The first one I decided to have in the morning because young kids are happier in the morning.  So we will have donuts and brunch items.
 


  I didn't use any SU supplies here, so let me know if you have any questions.   One thing I did one the first invitation was use little car webdings in place of spaces, which I thought looks cute.

 I have a graphic design background and love digital almost as much as stamping.  Let me design your projects!  My fees start at $15.  Just email me at symmetrystamps@gmail.com for a quote! 

Have a smiley Sunday!  See you tomorrow!

Boy Birthday

Okay... this is my last one!  I had so much fun playing with this set.  It's a hostess set, which means you have to earn it, so let's do it together!  Email me if you'd like to host a virtual party or a workshop if you're local to the KC area. 

I had fun with my Aqua Painter again.  If you don't have one of these- you should definitely click the link below and get yourself one!  They rock!  You can fill them with various liquids for totally different effects.

Let me know if you have any questions about the card! 

The Goods: Stamps- Birthday Bakery; Paper- Whisper White, Peach Parfait, Pear Pizzazz, Pacific Point; Ink- Early Espresso, Peach Parfait, Pear Pizzazz, Pacific Point; Misc- Paper Piercing, Texturz Plates, Big Shot, Ribbon, 1/8" Hole Punch, Shimmer Paint, Dimensionals.

See you tomorrow!

Click HERE to order Stampin' Up!

Spotlight Birthday

Good evening!

I have been out most of the day and really didn't plan on it.  It's been a good day, considering the dog days of summer.  My kids keep me on my toes, that's for sure!  I hope you're having a good day as well. 

This is sort of my twist on the Spotlighting technique.  I think this stamp is so cute!  I was trying to make a masculine card.  How do you think I did?  It's a pretty basic card.  I was going to add a ribbon behind the scallop and forgot.  I think it turned out sweet anyway.

Shoot!  I should have taken a side view so you could see the layers.  The bag is popped up and real cute!

The Goods: Stamps- Birthday Bakery; Paper- Whisper White, Cajun Craze, Daffodil Delight, Peach Parfait; Ink- Cajun Craze, Peach Parfait; Misc- Markers, Iridescent Ice EP, 1 3/8" Circle Punch, Scallop Circle Punch, Dimensionals.

Have a good night!

Click HERE to order Stampin' Up!

Photo Cube

Good evening ladies!

I finally finished up my photo cube!  All those tiny squares took more attention than I thought.  But then, I tend to be a perfectionist.

A couple tips: 

• Print photo a tad larger than the entire square.  This way you can trim the pieces smaller around the edges to leave the faces in tact.
• Score the back into thirds prior to cutting.  This is easier to cut with scissors because of the size.  You can also make sure the photo looks good cut prior to doing all the work.
• Work on one side at a time.  I began gluing multiple sides and the pieces were sliding around.  Make sure to allow drying time in between.

I think that's about it.  Other than it taking some time, it was a fun project. 

Have a great night!  I'll see you tomorrow!!

Click HERE to ORDER Stampin' Up!

Quick Peek

Hello all!!!  Quick post today.  I have a yummy peach pie in the oven, and I'm going to hang with my hubby tonight.  I thought I'd give you a peek of what I'm working on today. 

These are both Father's Day gifts.  The first is a Kraft Mayo container I call a Compliment Candy Jar, and then a Rubik's Cube with my baby's face.  I will share more tomorrow.

Happy Stamping!

Click HERE to order Stampin' Up!

Onesie Card & Update

Hi ladies!

I wanted to let you know I haven't forgotten about the tutorial.  I am anxious to get to it.  I have been baking this morning, and will be away the rest of the day.  Tomorrow I am painting my basement, in order to prep a garage sale next week.  I am going to try to find the energy to keep stamping through all of this, but since my computer crashed posting has not been as accessible.  I am hoping once my house is back in order it will get better.  Thanks for your patience.  Have a great weekend!

 

I made this cute card for a friend who had a baseball theme shower.  The colors are Whisper White, Night of Navy and Real Red.  The stamp inside is the retired, Bundled in Love.  I thought it turned out pretty cute.  Not bad for my first onesie.  I can't wait to make more! 

Happy Stamping!!!

Click HERE to order Stampin' Up!

Owl for Him

Hey there! 
Quick post today.  DH is off work, and we're having a family day.

I wanted to share a fun Owly card I made for my brother a while back.  I'm sure we all struggle a bit sometimes with masculine cards.  I didn't add any embellishments and it still turned out so cute.  I used a glitter pen on the leaves; I really love Sakura's Gelly Roll.

The Goods- Stamps: Owl Together Now, It's Your Birthday (retired); Paper- Chocolate Chip, Whisper White, Sage Shadow, So Saffron, Windsor Knot DSP (retired); Ink- Chocolate Chip, Sage Shadow; Misc- Markers, Aquapainter, Sakura Glitter Pen, sponge, 3/4" square punch, scallop square punch, scallop circle punch, circle punches.

I waiting on a shipment of new goodies any minute!  Have a wonderful day.  I'll see you tomorrow!

Owl are you doing?

I'm back, finally!  Sorry I haven't been around.  I have a tutorial ready today to make it up to you.

I have seen a ton of bookmark ideas out recently, so that was today's inspiration.

I cannot remember where I first came across this idea, so I went ahead and reconstructed a tutorial for you.  

Download Origami Corner Bookmark Tutorial

Please let me know if you have any questions!

It is an origami piece, so there is actually no adhesive holding it together.  I love the ease and sturdiness of this bookmark.
 

These are simple and quick.  I encourage you all to take a minute and try this if you haven't already!

No recipe today.  I used retired DSP and Owl Together Now stamp set.

Thanks for stopping by!  I'll be back tomorrow with more goodies to share.
Happy Stamping!

Bible Bookmark

Hey there!  It may take me a minute to get back in the groove of things.  I have not stamped in weeks!  So, I thought I'd share a couple projects today that I've thrown together recently. 

I was trying to create a simple, masculine bookmark for my husband.  I gave him a new Bible case for his birthday and this went with it.  I do think the corner punch is a little over the top for a guy.  I was pleased with the way it turned out.  I have trouble with bookmarks being too thick for the books.  With Bible pages being thin, I decided to print on regular printer paper.  I love the SU Jumbo eyelets for this project.  They are just wonderful for anything 2 sided.   Lastly, a bit of ribbon and voila!  

The Goods:  Stamps- Refuge and Strength; Ink- Old Olive; Paper- Copy paper, Bordering Blue; Misc- Old Olive Ribbon, Jumbo Eyelet, CM Corner Punch, Sponge

I am including my bookmark list for anyone interested.  Download Bible bookmark

Now I'm for a little snooze.  Taking the boys to the zoo in the morning!
Thanks for dropping in today!  I'll get my kids' nametags wrapped up tonight to share in the morning.  See you then!

Boy oh Boy, it's lunch time!

Let me explain lunch time with a typical two year old for all of you out there who have never experienced it.  They emphasize the lunch HOUR (or TWO)!  So if all goes well, the baby is still napping and my son usually takes his time for lunch.  He loves eating with people for dinner, but lunch is his imagination time with his food.  It took a while to get used to being told to go away, but I've grown to love it!  He sits at the table and eats, while I make cards!  (Okay, I'm usually doing laundry or dishes, but not today!)  Since I already had my supplies so convenient I was able to knock out a few cards real quick!  (Normally I work in the basement, so my time is limited with the kids.)

 

Anyway, enough of my rambling.  I cased this first card.  Sorry, not sure who to give credit to.  I added a linen background.  The sentiment is from Starring You, and the inside is from the retired SU Happy Birthday set.  I punched stars in Chocolate Chip, Bordering Blue and Kiwi Kiss.  It is such a quick boy card!  Today's my dad's birthday, so I gave this one to him.

This next card should have been mailed out to one of my cousins a couple weeks ago, so it's belated.  I used Weathered background and For Father.  I know a lot of these are retired.  (Sorry!)  The ribbon and mat are Chocolate Chip and the image is in Always Artichoke.  I added a couple gold brads as a finishing touch.

This last card is for my fun little nephew!  It is definitely missing something.  I keep looking at it wanting to add bling or ribbon or SOMETHING!  I have a couple days to top it off.  I love this hippo from Pun Fun! I colored him in with Bordering Blue and Kiwi Kiss.  The card is Night of Navy, and the DSP is Maine Blueberry.  Another BOYish card.  It'll be adorable when I'm done ;)

That's it for the birthday cards!  My New Year's goal (one of them!) is to have my year of cards completed by the end of January!