just me and my mary janes

CHA projects and upcoming events...

2012-01-24T06:45:00.004-05:00

Hey friends!
Sorry it's been so long since I have posted....where has January gone? LOL! I have been so busy getting ready for CHA and Live with Prima has kept me busy. I also have some classes and events coming up in the next few months that I have been getting ready for...

Sharon and I are teaching in Europe for Prima! I will share more details on that soon...so excited!

And then we are teaching at an event in Pittsburgh, called Sweet Retreat. The retreat is all inclusive and the price is super affordable! Visit the main page here to get details: http://www.yourmemorieshere.com/pages/SweetRetreat.htm
We will be getting Kristina some photos of the projects very soon! There will be a meet and greet Friday night with mini project stations...and of course some sweet treats :) Saturday will be a full day of creativity--3 main classes with full on projects, including canvas, art mediums and tons of Prima...plus goodie bags, meals and there is an Ikea right next to the hotel with tons of other shopping...awesome! Check out the page and see if it's something you can do for yourself. I promise it will be an inspiring weekend full of inspiring projects and techniques!

I wanted to share a couple of projects I have been working on for CHA. This first layout is using the new En Francais Collection. I love the mixed neutral tones with pops of color. This line is perfect if you have boys! I cut up a pair of jeans that were old and used a piece for part of my background. Then I layered papers and chipboard accents along with some fabric flowers that work well with this line. The textures really set the tone for the design....

And then I created these tags using the Songbird Collection. I debuted these tags on the first CHA Sneak Peek show this month on Live with Prima, but I wanted to share them again. I mixed in some old book paper, seam binding (colored with Broken China Distress Stain) and twine. The colors of this line are so soft yet earthy. It's one of my favorites from this release by Prima...

Thanks so much for stopping by and I hope to have more news and projects to share soon!

xoxo Cari

Crown Class on Live with Prima

2011-12-29T11:17:00.003-05:00

Hey Friends!
I have a live class tonight on Live with Prima! I am making this Paper Crown with lots of blingage, flowers and more! These are super fun to make and I can't wait to share it with everyone on the show.

The show will air tonight at 6:30pm PT/ 9:30pm ET and 1:30pm Sydney on 12/30 since they are a day ahead....
And all of the shows are recorded, so if you can't make it to the live broadcast, you can view it later when you have the chance.

Here is the link to the class on Ustream and this is also where you can see the recordings: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/primaflower

Hope to see you there!

xoxo Cari

More Holiday Ideas!

2011-12-13T11:23:00.008-05:00

Hello friends-
How's your December going?
I hope all of the holiday planning is going well for you and you're not too stressed.
I have certainly been busy and I know it's going to keep getting busier as I get further into December. Decorations are up and the house looks great. Shopping on the other hand-not even close to being done. The thought of Christmas cards makes me cringe, since I havent even started them. I have had the urge to create a lot lately....but just not Christmas cards. Not yet anyway...

Instead-I have created some projects that I want to use for gift giving. I made some gift card holders out of Prima packaging and decorated a cute paper mache house I picked up at Hobby Lobby.

I have some Christmas decorations that I decided would make great templates for the gift card holders. I traced them onto the packaging, cut out and did some sewing (badly I might add) around the edges. I used a cream colored thread and did a straight stitch using a denim needle. I colored the Prima resist canvas using two different Glimmer mists-Apple and Olive Vine-spraying the lighter first....The canvas pieces are from the North Country Collection...love them! I kep the backing on them so they could "hang off" the edges a bit. I sealed over the top with some Multi Medium by Ranger.

I added a strip of Printery patterned paper along the top of the stocking. Then around the paper I added lace, twine and seam binding. In the middle of the bows, I added a glittered snowflake and a vintage button. The tag was punched out from cream paper and I stamped the little sentiment from the North Country Stamp set by Prima. All of the edges were inked with Vintage photo too...

I also traced a mitten and went along the same route for decorating as I did for the stocking. This time I sprayed canvas snowflakes and changed out the lace as well. The sewing on this one is a bit better than the last....there is hope for me yet :)

I added a little piece of lace at the top of both thinking that maybe after giving them as a gift card holder-they could later be used as ornaments or tags...so giving them something to hang them with is a good addition just incase.

This little house was found in the paper mache section at Hobby Lobby and it was priced at 2.99. What a deal! And sometimes they have that section at 40% off, so to hit that time frame is even better! I painted it with a cream colored acrylic paint and lined the inside of the house with light colored paper....because....I want to add a little LED light-the little tealight kind-to the inside. They dont get hot and the lighter paper will illuminate the light a bit better... I added Printery paper to the sides of the house and a banner across the front to cover where the top meets the bottom. The top lifts off and I wanted to cover the seam. Then I covered it entirely with crystal glitter...looks like sugar.

I now want to make 20 of these...I really do. Perhaps I will or I might remember that I have Christmas cards to make....haha!

Thanks again for stopping by and I will be back soon with more ideas...

xoxo Cari

LWP class tonight...

2011-12-06T15:22:00.002-05:00

Hey friends-
I am making these tags on Live with Prima tonight! I decided to make them into a class since everyone liked them so much...
Here is the class information:

Wintery Tag Set with Cari Fennell
Tuesday, December 6th at 5:00pm PT/ 8:00pm ET/ 12/7-1:00am GMT/ 12:00pm Sydney Aus.

Glitter glass flakes, Platinum embossed images and blissful sentiments are what you will find on each one of these vintage style tags. Join Cari as she creates 8 original tags using Prima stamps, flowers and more, just in time for the holidays!

Prima Products:
890940-Comfort Craft Distress Tool
551391-Say It In Crystals
550134-Tiny Alphas-Alla Prima
551049-North Country Stamp Set
547547-Cute As A Button-Precious
553821-Mulberry Paper-Printery
540272-Innoscence Collection
552480-Avon Rose-Printery
551155-North Country Reflections
553456-Vine
527075-Velvet Leaves

Extra Materials:
Cream and Black Seam Binding
Ranger Platinum Emboss Powder
German Glass Glitter-Silver
(8) Avery Manila Tags
Circle Punches-variety of sizes
Lace
Old Book Paper
Ranger Distress Ink-Vintage Photo
Ranger Distress Emboss Ink
Snowflake Punch
Scissors
Twine
Glue and Adhesive

See the class here on the Prima channel: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/primaflower

Hope to see you there!
xoxo Cari

More Christmas Tags!

2011-11-29T16:17:00.007-05:00

Hey friends!

So it seems like I am on a tag kick lately, but I am having so much fun! I wanted to change up the look from the last set and go brighter. (Speaking of last set-I am going to remake those beauties on Live with Prima for December...so stay tuned for the class info in a few days.) Sorry these photos look slightly crooked, I have no idea why except to say my photog skills need improvement...

I used Avery Manila tags as my base for all of them-covering them with a mix of book paper, patterned papers and solids. I also spent some time fussy cutting the deer out of the patterned papers...I love the images so I cut several...and then only used three. So I have more to use if I want to expand this set.

I used papers from Basic Grey and We R Memory Keepers. I used the Accu Cut machine from my LSS to cut some snowflakes and a darling little tree. They were cut from scrap chipboard. The flowers are all Prima as well as the leaves, along with the tiny type alphabet and red/clear crystals. All of the paper and tag edges were inked with Vintage photo Distress ink to tone down the bright colors...just a bit.

This first one is covered with old book paper and then I added patterned paper strips along the left side. I glued the deer at the bottom right of the tag, then added the circles and finished it off with flowers. I combined ribbon and bakers twine at the top and finished off the flower with crystals...

I covered this tag entirely with book paper, then added a punched edge to the bottom backed by a strip of red paper. The snowflakes were covered with glitter glass-a mix of silver and gold together-then topped with Wheatfields Glimmer mist to make the glitter look aged. The sentiment is from A Muse and it was pop dotted onto the front.

This next tage was also covered in old book paper, then I added a strip of patterned paper at the bottom. I punched out some circles using my Marvy punches, adhered and lopped off the side that was hanging over. I placed my deer over the circle, added little letters to the top of the and then my flowers with leaves. Add scraps of ribbon to the tag tops.....

I covered this guy with patterned paper, added a bit of book paper to the center and added my chipboard tree. Then I added the bling as ornaments and tied twine with ribbon at the top. Finished off with a cute little button. So easy!

I covered the tag with solid paper and added a banner down the center. I punched more circles and layered different sizes together. Then I placed my deer off to the right and finished with flowers.
This one is patterned paper with book paper added to the bottom 1/3 of the tag. I wrapped a ribbon around where the two papers meet and also wrapped bakers twine a few times below the ribbon. I covered the chipboard snowflake in glitter and added a super cute Jenni Bowlin button to the center. Then I added my sentiment from Tiny alpas over the twine...

Thank you for stopping by...I appreciate it and I hope you enjoyed tag segment -part two.
I shall return with more projects and the Live with Prima Tag class info.
xoxo Cari

Christmas Tags!

2011-11-16T06:30:00.007-05:00

Hello friends!
I just got back from my trip to Australia and New Zealand! It was an amazing experience and I plan to share lots of photos with you as soon as I get them downloaded. My computer crashed while I was away and now everything is being transferred to our other computer. So once I get everything settled-I will download and share.

But in the meantime, I did manage to get my documents transferred yesterday, including some new Christmas tags I made before I left for my trip. The colors are non-traditional and very soft. I stamped, embossed, layered and glittered to my heart's content. I made eight all together and I am really happy with the way they turned out. So I am sharing them with you today...

The base of the tags are plain ole manila shipping tags. I used Prima's Printery and Romantique papers, which happened to be the inspiration for the color combo you see throughout the tags. I also used Kraft and Cream cardstock, as well as old book paper. I included a complete list of supplies at the end of this post. Each tag is unique and it was so fun to mix and match as I created them....

Tag 1: I covered the tag with old book paper and then added a strip of printery at the bottom with twine. I stamped with Prima's new North Country stamp set-using the tree here, embossed with Platinum emboss powder by Ranger and cut it out. I layered with circle punches and snowflakes covered in silver glass glitter. The tree is popped up with foam tape, a small sentiment was added over the twine using Prima tiny type alphabet and finished off with seam binding for the bow. All edges of the papers and tags were inkedwith Ranger Distress ink-Vintage photo (my very fave)...

Tag 2: I covered the tag with patterned paper, added another strip to look like ribbon, then stamped and embossed little snowflakes randomly over the papers. I wrapped twine around it length wise, dotted around the snowflakes with Prima bling and added a small sentiment at the bottom. I added a punched circle over the twine, decorated it with a poinsettia, leaves and a glitttered snowflake....finish off with black seam binding at the top.

Tag 3: Cover the tag with patterned paper and another paper strip down the side, with Prima lace. Stamp and emboss joy from the stamp set and add to punched circle layers-use foam tape to pop them up. Sprinkle with glittered snowflakes and add a Cute As A Button at the top with twine and ribbon. Add bling to the snowflake centers to finish them off.

Tag 4: Cover the tag with old book paper, add lace at the bottom and tie twine with ribbon at the top. I stamped the sentiment in the smallest circle, embossed and layered with multiple circles I punched from various cardstock and papers. Add small roses around the circles with a snowflake and leaves. Then finish off with the button at the top.

Tag 5: Cover the tag with Printery paper and tie a fat ribbon around it lengthwise. Tie some twine around the ribbon knot and adhere the circles over the ribbon. Add a Prima puffball flower to the circle with a snowflake in the center and some leaves.....easy!

Tag 6: Cover the tag with paper and add a strip of another pattern along the bottom. Stamp the deer onto paper, emboss and punch out. I placed the circle off the side of the tag and trimmed off the overhang. Tie a piece of black seam binding around the tag and add flower with snowflake over the bow. I stamped a small senitment onto the cardstock strip and tucked it in around the bow.

Tag 7: Cover the tag with patterned paper and add strips of paper going down the center of the tag, knothced at the bottom to look like ribbon. Create a rosette from patterned paper strips and punched circles. Add more punched circles to the rosette center with a snowflake. Tie a double bow from black seam binding at the top-I love the multi ribbon look.....

Tag 8: Cover the tag with patterned paper and add layers of punched circles to the center of the tag. Stamp, emboss and cut out a tree to place in the center of the circles. I sprinkled some bling on the tree for extra sparkle. Tie a bow below the tree with seam binding and add a snowflake to the bow center. Then stamp a sentiment on a paper strip, create a banner and place just below the ribbon.

These tags were so fun to create! I hope they inspire you to create some of your own for the upcoming holidays. I plan to wrap some gifts in plain kraft postal paper and add these to embellish the gifts with silver and gold ribbon....maybe-hehe....if i can part with them.

Here is a list of supplies:

Prima-

North Country Cling Stamp Set

Printery Paper Collection-Love Ledger, Page 4, Signature

Romantique Paper Collection-The Courts

Tiny Alphabet-Alla Prima

Powder Puff Flowers-Cassie

Poinsettas and Leaves

Avon Flowers-Printery

Say It In Crystals-Faceted Crystals-551391

Cute As A Button- Crocheted Buttons

Prima Lace-Cream

Ranger Vintage Photo Distress Ink

Ranger Platinum Emboss Powder

Ranger Distress Emboss Ink

Black and Camel Seam Binding

May Arts Gold Ribbon-Crushed Gold

Twine

Manila Tags

Kraft and Cream Cardstock

Marvy Circle Punches-Scalloped and Plain

Silver Glass Glitter-Wendy Andersen

Chipboard Snowflakes

Thanks for stopping by and check back for more updates soon! I have another set of tags to share that are brighter with lots of color....coming soon!

Peace-Cari

Reminder: Buffalo Classes!

2011-10-18T14:29:00.004-04:00

Hey friends!
Just wanted to post a reminder about the classes I have coming up this Saturday at Buffalo Stamps and Stuff in Amherst NY! These two classes are really fun and the kits are packed full of Prima goodies...the cost of the classes are worth what you get in product alone and the bonus is you get to spend time with me-LOL! Space is limited and there are a few spots left, so sign up as soon as you can...

Contact the store if you're interested. Here is the website with phone number, class info and more:
http://www.buffalostamps.com/classdescriptions.htm

Romantique Layout Class - $25.00
Join Cari to create a gorgeous two page layout using the brand new Romantique Collection from Prima. The soft color palette is perfect for any theme, from baby to wedding or heritage photos too. We will be using a wide variety of wonderful Prima products to complete these pages, such as chipboard elements, felt and of course-flowers!
Sat. Oct. 22nd- 10-11:30

Winter Bliss Mini Album-$45.00
Is it possible to use the words winter and bliss together in upstate NY? It is now! This gorgeous mini album will be the perfect setting for those upcoming holiday or winter photos. We are going to use a mixture of glitter, stamping, die cuts and gorgeous Prima products to create this one of a kind project
Sat. Oct. 22nd- 12:30-3:30

Hope to see you there! And feel free to ask me any questions-OK?

Have a great day!

xoxo Cari

My Heritage Layout

2011-10-06T08:19:00.003-04:00

Hey Friends!
October is here and I have such an incredibly busy month! And I am going to try and keep my blog updated as much as possible. I have so many things I want to create, closets need to be cleaned out, leaves are falling...and I am getting ready for my trip to Australia! I leave on October 26th and I can not wait! I will miss out on Halloween, which I love and I know the boys are bummed about it, so I am going to get the decorations out in full force...Bryan is going to help!

I have this layout to share, using the Printery Collection from Prima. I love the color palette of this line and the designs are beautiful. I added a very specific color scheme to compliment my family photo. There are a lot of little details added throughout the design. This is a family portrait of my husband as a toddler with his Dad, Mom and baby brother...I adore this photo. I have lots of layering going on behind the photo, with vintage book paper and patterned paper with trim. I love the softness that the trim adds around the photo.

The mixture of flowers add a great impact, but without overpowering the colors of the photo and papers. I love to mix different types of flowers to add interest and texture to the design. I used Ceylon (Attic), Avon Roses, Aglow Leaves, Solitare (Pure) and Powder Puffs ( Cassie) flowers. Then a bow made of seam binding was tucked in among the flowers...

I added chipboard accents and tiles tucked in among the flowers. I love the way they add interest and texture within the flower clusters. Then I sprinkled some colored crystals around to draw your eye across the page. And my absolute favorite element that I used are the Antique Mirrors...they make the perfect backdrop for my title..I cant say enough about them-if you get the chance to grab some-do it!

So that's all for today! I will be back with more goodies and ideas that I hope will inspire you to create some fabulous projects of your own!

xoxo Cari

Updates, Classes and Good Stuff...

2011-09-25T09:07:00.003-04:00

Hey Friends!
September is coming to an end and I am actually glad to put this month behind me. For some reason, it has been challenging. I like to be organized and have things in order, both at home and work wise. But unexpected situations arise and everything just gets jumbled. I can handle one or two things, but it has been constant and it seemed like there was no end in sight.....sheesh! It doesnt take much to feel buried underneath it all.

However, I took it in stride, came up with solutions or realized I had no control and let it go. I know this all sounds vague, but the details arent important. What is important, is whether or not you are going to let it all get to you. I made a decision for each and every situation, whether I was going to allow it to get the best of me or not. And my answer is-absolutely not. It's the only control I had and I wasn't about to squander it. So just when you feel like you are losing control, regain it. It's the best thing you can do for yourself. I feel even better just writing about it here.

So now...it's all good. I have a lot to look forward to and that will be my focus going into October! I have some upcoming classes that I wanted to let you know about incase you might want to join me....We will have so much fun-I promise! And my kits are jam packed with Prima goodness...seriously.....loaded!

I have two classes coming up in Buffalo, NY at Buffalo Stamps and Stuff. The classes are going to take place on October 22nd. The first is a double page layout, using Prima's Romantique Collection. I need to take a photo of the layouts to share with you. I plan to take photos of it today. Just putting the finishing touches on them before I do..but here is the class information in the meantime:

Romantique Layout Class: $25.00
Join Cari to create a gorgeous two page layout using the brand new Romantique Collection from Prima. The soft color palette is perfect for any theme, from baby to wedding or even heritage photos too. We will be using a wide variety of wonderful Prima products to complete these pages such as lace, felt embellishments and of course-lots of Prima flowers!
...............................................................

And this is the second class! We are going to create a Holiday Mini Album! Here are the details....

Winter Bliss Mini Album-$45.00
Is it possible to use the words "winter" and "bliss" together in Upstate NY? It is now! This gorgeous mini album will be the perfect setting for those upcoming holiday or winter photos. We are going to use a mixture of glitter, stamping, die cuts and fabulous Prima products to create this one of a kind project! This would make a lovely gift and you could include photos from last Christmas for someone you spent the holidays with last year!

Here is the website for Buffalo Stamps and Stuff. It has store hours, location and class information!

http://www.buffalostamps.com/

.............................................................

I will be heading to Australia on October 26th for a two week tour for Prima! Sharon Laakkonen and I will be traveling together, teaching classes all over Australia and a jaunt to New Zealand too...I am so excited! Here is a look at the project I'll be teaching-I am in love with it and I hope everyone there will enjoy it too!

Here is the main website with all of the travel information and where I will be throughout the tour!

Check it out here: http://yourcreativejourney.wordpress.com/prima-road-show-nov-1-nov-11-2011-schedule/

OK-so that is it for now...I will be back very soon with some sneak peek photos of the Romantique Layout class!

xoxo Cari

Another stamped project...

2011-09-09T08:56:00.002-04:00

Hello friends!
I just want to say--thank you so much for all of the wonderful comments on my wreath project for the Prima blog hop! You all really know how to make a girl's day! I have another holiday project to share with you and I was originally going to post step by step instructions on how to re-create it, but I ended up doing a video on it instead! I think it worked out better in my honest opinion...

Jamie could not do her show last night on Live with Prima last night because of the major power outage they are experiencing. So I did this project in place of it and rescheduled her for Monday night. I didnt want everyone to show up for a class and not have anything to watch. I refuse to let that happen!

I created this framed wreath for the Prima booth at CHA summer. I wanted to show a new idea using one stamp set and creating an image using multiple stamps mixed together...This piece is actually 8x11 in size, but I recreated it in 12x12 format on the show. I mixed trees, flourishes and snowflakes in a circular formation to create a "wreath" image. The stamp set I used is the North Country Cling Set by Prima. The background paper is called Hedgerow from the Romantique Collection by Prima.

I used a mix of colors from my stash of Distress Inks by Ranger. The greens are Crushed Olive and Peeled Paint. The blues are Stormy Sky, Broken China and Faded Jeans. I also showed an example of colors you could use together in reds too, if you wanted to change up the color pallette a bit...

This is a close up shot of my original project where you can see the detail in the stamp images...

Sooooo.....you can watch the video here: http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/17150833

I include tips and tricks on how to use your stamps, other inks you may want to try and more!
Hope you enjoy it!

I will be back soon with more projects! Have a great weekend...
xoxo Cari

Prima and Tattered Angels Blog Hop

2011-09-01T08:48:00.005-04:00

Hello friends!
Welcome to my blog for the Tattered Angels and Prima blog hop!

Tattered Angels and Prima are partnering again to share some fabulous ideas on how to incorporate their products into your projects...

I created a wreath that it is perfect for the upcoming holiday season and of course you can change the colors to fit your own color scheme to work with your home decor. This is really easy to do!

I colored Prima's Kraft packaging (from our Clear Paintables Collection) with Tattered Angels Apple Glimmer Mist. I love the dark olive tones with the soft pearl shine that it created. It's fun to experiment with various colors on neutral backgrounds to see the different results. All of the cones are glued onto a styrofoam wreath base.

I stamped the the word using large Alpha letters onto a cream paper strip and embossed with gold powder. The center paper is accordian folded paper strips from Prima's Fairy Flora Collection. You can build as many layers as you see fit to create the look you are going for!

If you would like to see how I made a similar version of this and for other wreath ideas, watch my video here: http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/10944334

I clustered the flowers with sprigs of leaves and swirled crystals. The swirled crystals are colored with Glimmer Glam to add sparkle and customize the color I needed. I used Prima's Temple Leaves, Winter Branches, Roosevelt Flowers, Grande Dame Flowers and Glitter Sprays in Gold. It is fun to mix and match lush flowers with a variety of leaves and branches.

Here you can see a close up of the colored Kraft packaging and more crystal swirls that have been colored!
And at the end of the project, finish off the entire projects with light sprays of Wheatfields Glimmer Mist for an aged look!

This project was so fun to create! I hope it inspires you to create one of your own or maybe even as a gift for someone with a new home or for the holidays...

Head on over to the Prima blog for a chance to win a fabulous prize pack (photo of the prize is at the top!) filled with Prima and Tattered Angels goodies! All you have to do is comment, let them know who is super inspiring from our hop and you are entered to win!
http://prima.typepad.com/prima/2011/09/its-a-prima-tattered-angels-blog-hop.html#comments
Thanks for stopping by!
xoxo Cari

Stamping on a Layout

2011-08-24T11:25:00.003-04:00

Hello friends!
Surprised? I am working hard on keeping my blog updated and fresh. Summer is coming to an end in a week and a half, Bryan started baseball this week and we are thinking about back to school. Well-I am thinking about it anyway..:) The State Fair starts tomorrow and we are planning on going to enjoy the unhealty food, grouchy Carnies and poorly dressed fair goers...it's always entertaining!

I am sharing a layout today, of Cassidy, my sweet lab! I did a lot of stamping around this layout using the new Alla Prima Cling stamp set with the matching papers. I used acrylic paint from Ranger, to stamp with-I love using paints rather than inks, because they seem to show up so much better on a larger area like this 12 x 12 layout. I stamped a small journal spot and branches at the top left with clustered some flowers. The paint colors are Aqua and Lettuce from Adirondack line. They matched perfectly!

You can also see a funky branch going along the top right, with another journal spot and more branches. I think it's important to repeat some of the images through out the design, but not all are necessary. As long as the colors match-then you are good to go!

You can see the title stamped onto a journal spot and a few more branches on the photo too. I like cutting the journal spots in half, having one part at the top and another at the bottom to make them looked like they are continuing from top to bottom. The lush trim from prima make the perfect border along the bottom of the photo too.. The teal flower you see is from the Collette Collection-love the wired gems in the center!

You can see more of the branches peeking out from behind the flower cluster-they are subtle yet they add bits of green that is needed around the flowers. I added the new gorgeous bling swirls in teal, that sparkle like you wouldn't believe. They are faceted, so it catches the light at all angles...they look lit up!

So if you would like to try your hand at stamping with paint-you wont need a lot, just apply with a foam brush-you can coat your stamps evenly. Practice on scratch paper to get used to it-it's a lot wetter than ink. Wash your stamps under warm water as soon as you are finished. Otherwise-it's a pain to get it out later!

Thanks for stopping by!

xoxo Cari

Shabby Tin and Book Project

2011-08-17T07:56:00.007-04:00

Hey friends!
I have a great project to share today. This is my project that I created for the Color Connections event that took place back in May. I thought it was about time I share it with you! I didnt end up teaching the class myself, but I heard everyone enjoyed making it. It's a Vintage style tin with a book inside.

This is Prima's large tin they used as packaging for some of their flowers. I applied gesso and tan paint to the surface, allowed it to set and then finished it off with a coat of Glimmer Glam-Golden Goddess. The glam acts as a protective coat with it's laquer finish. I love the sparkles in it too-it adds a cool effect to the overall look. It does take some time to set, so I left it to dry over night. I lined the inside with Botanical paper from Prima, then added Eminence flowers, Cottage Blossoms, Tissue tape from Tim Holtz and a cute metal frame from Pink Paislee. I also added some green leaves that I painted with Dirty Martini Glam for sparkle and to darken them a bit, to a rich moss color.

The book for the inside is made using patterned paper. I decorated the cover with Crocheted flowers, lace, with chipboard pieces and images cut out from a sheet of the Botanical paper. There is an entire sheet of postcards and emphemera that you can cut out and use as accents for the project.

I also added seam binding with Vintage Trinkets and twine to the binding of the book. And I used bling branches to add sparkle around the flowers-I cut them apart all the time to make them go further on any project. I added Wheatfields Glimmer Mist to the entire book and inked all of the paper edges with Vintage Photo distress ink.

I used three pieces of 12 x 12 paper, cut down to 9 x11 to create the pages. I scored the center and glued the papers back to back
I added tissue tape along all the edges of the pages.

Every page is decorated a little differently, with flower clusters and chipboard pieces tucked in around them. I also added more pieces of emphemera cut from the paper too. All of the leaves were painted with the Dirty Martini Glimmer Glam throughout the book, just like I did with the leaves on the tin cover.

I love the Botanical papers. Each page is unique yet the look is cohesive throughout the project. And because the inside of the tin is deep, it allows you to have bulkier pages without them being squished when the tin is closed. Here is the a look at the last two pages of the homemade book.

I hope you enjoyed taking a peek at this project. It was a lot of fun to put together and I am really happy with the way it turned out. This is a major class with so many steps, but totally do-able!

I will be back soon with more projects from CHA.

Thanks for stopping by! xoxo

Long time- no see!

2011-08-11T18:42:00.011-04:00

Hello friends!
Summer has been wonderful and so busy, at the Fennell household. I apologize for not posting in a while but that's what summer does to you...it gets you outside, planning trips with family, enjoying waterparks, sleepovers, boat rides and cookouts.

I was also consumed with the trade show, CHA in Chicago. It was very hot. It involved a ton of hard work, as always. But ended after spending a week with my Prima family and a fabulous dinner at Gibsons. There may have been a night out, involving a cheesy dance club, including Alicia's fab skills of cutting the rug and some Jersey Shore wanna be's. But no one was there........ so, it didnt really happen :)

I have some of my layouts to share that I made using Prima's new releases at the show. The products were a huge hit as always and many compliments were made on ALL the samples displayed in the booth....every single one! The DT knocked it out of the park this summer and I was very humbled, placing my projects next to their's on display....

This first layout is of Gwen, the miracle baby. She looks so sweet. I remember her in the hospital, wearing a cotton ball as a diaper...she was tiny to say the least. To see her like this, makes me smile. I needed to make a layout for Nic and this was the perfect time. The Pixie Glen line was not my favorite at first, but now I love it! I also used some of the new Shabby Treasures metal embellishments (painted pink frame and lantern), Melody flowers and new canvas leaf vines with pink sticthing. I also added some little stamped images, here and there as well.

Here, you can see the metal frame close up, with a sweet little Pixie image and flowers.

This is sweet layout of Bryan using the Londonerry Paper Collection, with coordinating embellishments. There are so many cool things to cut out of this paper line to use as accents for your projects. It can be used for masculine or feminine projects and even heritage too.

Here, you can see some of the new leaves, tiny treasure metal trinkets with a mix of flowers, clustered around the edges of the photo. I also used an old book cover for the background to frame in the photo and to add a little interest with the pop of red.

I made my own medal with a chipboard accent, scallopped circle from packaging, green ribbon and placed his name in the center with new alphas. I really enjoy making my own embellishments for my pages and this one has to be my faveorite to date....

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***Coming up:

Next Tuesday, August 16th, I have a Live with Prima show coming up! I am making my Happy Tag book project and ending with a little Ruby Violet cuff demonstration.....I may even give one away! :0

Thanks for stopping by-I appreciate it so much!

xoxo Cari

Class announcement and a new project!

2011-06-13T16:41:00.005-04:00

Hello friends!
I am heading to Buffalo this weekend to teach for Prima at the CKC Convention...anyone gonna be there? Sharon at Buffalo Stamps and Stuff invited me to teach at her wonderful store, Thursday night, June 16th at 6:00pm. I am so excited to see everyone-I just love the ladies that come to the classes every year..they are awesome! And I always enjoy meeting new friends too!

I am teaching my Happy Tag Mini Book...this is one of my favorite projects to date..

The class is $35.00 and you get lots of Prima goodies to work with. So if you're headed that way, stop by and take the class at one of the best Scrap/Stamp stores in NY!

Here is the blog for Buffalo Stamps and Stuff...http://www.buffalostampsandstuff.blogspot.com/

New Project:
Ahhh...I had the freedom to create what I wanted this past week and it was awesome...
I have been creating for assignments, and lots of other things behind the scenes, so it was nice to create a project and then share it here...

I created a mini album using a 6 x 12 Canvas refill page from Donna Downey and used it as my cover. Then I civered the front and back with a Prima screenprint that Donna also created. I added a canvas word with a lovely Cinderella vine, Cabachon centers and ribbon to bind the inside pages...then finished it off with Pom Pom trim with lace.

I cut another screenprint into 6 x 12 instrips and used it for the inside pages. Each page is adorned with Prima Cabachon centers, Aire flowers and some found items as well as Prima packaging. I had fun adding these goodies throughout the pages...

Rebecca from Pink Paislee sent me some gorgeous journal cards so i decided to add them to the pages too. I had no idea the back peeled off so you can stick them down..how cool! They worked so well with the color scheme...

I also added canvas tabs and tags to the pages with Madeline paper from Prima. I had some mini vintage playing cards kicking around in my stash so I added those too...they are too cute! i found them at a used book store where i get my old book and music paper from..

I slid the canvas tags in between the pages-I love that they peek out in different areas of the book. At the bottom of the page on the right-I added another vintage find from Jenni Bowlins store she had at Inspired last year..it was nice to finally use it. The little row of ivory flowers are too awesome. Wish I had tons more! There are little bits of bling in the centers too..

Final page...lots of Paink Paislee journal cards loaded up here with ribbon and flowers. I also used the packaging they came in too.

I had a blast making this and I may just have to make more...hmmm....we'll see!

So that's it for today! Hopefully I will see some of my peeps this weekend at the convention...

I'll be back soon with more creations! Have a great day!

xoxo Cari

Live with Prima class tonight!

2011-05-31T15:41:00.002-04:00

Hey everyone!
Hope you all had a great weekend! I have been super busy and some exciting things are coming around the corner for me. I cant wait to share once I get the go ahead so stay tuned for the news by the end of the week...

In the meantime, I wanted to let everyone know that I have a show on Live with Prima tonight! Tune in at 6:30pm PST/ 9:30pm EST on the Prima channel over at ustream....
Here's the link to the show: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/primaflower

And I also have a couple of classes coming up in June on Live with Prima...

Accessories Galore-we will be making a barrette, headband and a floral necklace using Prima goodies with Glimmer Glam and Mists. This class is scheduled for June 7th at 6:30pm PST/ 9:30 pm EST....it will be so much fun!

And this is my Sea Glass mini book project...
It's scheduled for June 21st at 11:00am PST/ 2:00pm EST...I am in love with the style of this project...it will be perfect for Summer getaway photos! There are great techniques in this class and I can't wait to share them with everyone. The book cover really does look like glass...so cool!

Thats all for now! I'll be back soon-I promise! Hope to see you at the shows!

xoxo Cari

NSD Blog Hop winner!

2011-05-09T06:39:00.003-04:00

Hey friends!

Thanks so much for all of the wonderful comments on my video! You guys made my whole weekend---seriously! So sweet! And I hope everyone had a great time on National Scrapbook Day and had a fabulous Mother's Day too...

Here is the winner of the Prima goodies from my video: #51

Dianne:
Thanks sooo much for the tutorial, I didn't know I could use these inkpads on canvas. The script paper and the canvas looked fantastic.
I am grateful for the extra chance of some Prima goodies.

Congrats Diane! E-Mail me cari@primamarketinginc.com to claim your prize....

I will be back with more posts and ideas! Thanks again for the wonderful comments, new followers and for your love of Prima!

xoxoxo Cari

Are you here for the Prima NSD Blog Hop?

2011-05-06T11:17:00.008-04:00

Then you've come to the right place! Welcome to my blog!
This is your last stop on the blog hop train and I have made a special video just for you in honor of National Scrapbook Day.... The video contains an extra little bonus for anyone who watches:)

All of the details for the blog hop are posted on the Prima blog, so be sure to check it out! Three winners will be selected to win fabulous prizes shown below! There are three kits up for grabs!

Prima Blog: prima.typepad.com

NSD Prima Tutorial from Cari Fennell on Vimeo.

Edited: Here is a link to the stamp I used and Scrapbook.com has a great selection of other styles too! http://store.scrapbook.com/pri-920524.html

Enjoy your day-I hope it's a BEAUTIFUL one!! (hint, hint) And good luck!!

xoxo Cari

Another Color Room Layout...

2011-04-29T06:55:00.003-04:00

Hey friends!
I hope everyone had a wonderful Easter Holiday! Brother Matt came home for the weekend and the boys love spending time with him. I love seeing my little brother too. It was really nice to get together...

(OOOH! I had to stop my blog post for a minute to see Will and Kate kiss...they are adorable!)

I was lucky enough to be featured in The Color Room again. Prima sponsored the site all month long and it was so fun to participate in the challenges. The color palettes were beautiful and I highly recommend that you check it out. The inspiration is wonderful and so are all of the members-it's a very warm welcoming site.

Here is the link: http://thecolorroom.ning.com/

And this is the palette I designed with. A mix of very bright colors that were inspired from some of Prima's newest releases. The sketch was really fun and can be interpreted in so many ways...

I stayed true to the sketch, adding strips of lace along the paper edges and layered papers to build up the background. All of the paper edges were inked and distressed. I did this with Vintage Photo Distress ink and my Tonic edge distresser. I also colored a 6x6 canvas refill page with Patina Glimmer Mist and added it to the background to showcase my photo. This is one of my favorite photos of my niece with my sister and brother inlaw...she is an amazing girl-I adore her!

I clustered the flowers together, adding leaves and Candy Gem sprays with crocheted button centers on the flowers. Then a sprinkle of pearls and rub ons surrounding them...

I ran a piece of ribbon through the grommets of the refill canvas page and filled it in with more flowers and other goodies. I have so much fun mixing and matching things together...I could spend hours doing it if I had the time....

So thats it for today! I have some Live with Prima classes coming up this month and I plan to share the projects with you soon! Thanks so much for stopping by-I appreciate it so much!

Have a great day!

xoxo Cari

Guest Designing for the Color Room...

2011-04-15T08:18:00.005-04:00

Hey everyone!

Sorry I have been away so long! I have been really busy with work--Live with Prima is doing so well and keeping me super busy! I have new stores joining the list, the designers have been amazing to work with and last but not least..I am loving the chats with all of our viewers/friends...they are so fun to hang with during the shows! If you haven't gone to a live show-go to the website to see what it's all about! The schedule is listed with project photos and the site is a wealth of information regarding the webcasts...

Check it out: http://livewithprima.com/white/index.html

Here is what else I have been up to:

Prima is sponsoring the Color Room this month and I have been asked to create some work using their color palettes and sketches. If you haven't been to this site-you need to check it out! It's one of the very best challenge sites out there, with an amazing design team, a great community, gorgeous palettes and amazing sketches to get your mojo working!

Here is a link to the site: http://thecolorroom.ning.com/

I am telling you---you are going to love it there!

This is the palette and sketch I worked with. The color combination is awesome! I loved working with it and I wanted to share my creation....

OK-so here is my take on it. I used a photo of my nieces-they are amazing girls-and I layered Prima papers with old book pages. I inked all of the edges using Vintage Photo Distress Ink and my Distresser from Tonic.

I even inked the edges of my photo...

The orange Cabachon lace was toned down with some TA Wheatfields Glimmer Mist and then stapled along side the photo/journaling area.

All of the flowers are layered together, including some Prima Rose trim. I used Sculptured flower centers, tiny velvet flowers (from the Aire Collection) and page pebbles to sprinkle around the flower clusters (and also, in the flower centers themselves).

I used a Tim Holtz die for the journaling area and I slipped one behind the photo too. I just love that die-thanks Tim..:) And do you see the sweet little fairy rub on peeking out from around the flowers? I love adding fun little elements like that to my pages.....

So that is all for now! I am working on another layout to share on the Color Room at the end of this month. I am totally hooked on that place! I will share as soon as it's posted!

And I promise not be gone so long again! Thanks for stopping by!

xoxo Cari

Canvas House mini book...

2011-03-22T09:48:00.003-04:00

Hello friends!
I have a new project for you....well-sort of new. I made this project last year for the Inspired event. I taught this as a Prima class. I did a live show on Live with Prima recently, and re-made the book using newer Prima products. Everyone was so sweet and really seemed to enjoy the class-I am so happy for that! And Kristina at yourmemorieshere.com made it into a kit.

You can se the kit here and there is only 1 left!
http://www.yourmemorieshere.com/category_26/Live-With-Prima-Kits.htm

I decided to post some pics of the book itself, so you can see how each page turned out. I can't wait to add photos to it! I did add more after the class was finished. I had some leftovers and decided to use them up.

Here is the cover: Flowers and embellishments added with lace. I sprayed the entire book with Wheatfields Glimmer Mist to give an aged look....I also tied a sweet little bird cage from Marions Trinket line with Prima. I used some twine to tie it onto the lace bow. I love seeing other embellishments peeking out from other pages too..

I used a large crocheted flower from the Love Notes-Botanical flower pack. They are going to be the perfect back drop for my photos. I also added Cute As A Button crocheted centers to some of the flowers throughout the book...they are super fun to use..

Another large crocheted flower on this page. All of the pages where made from Prima packaging-it's too pretty to not use! I save them for a project such as this...

Rub ons and paper pieces were also used on the book pages for added interest and layering. I love to layer! And the leaves really finish off the flower clusters perfectly...

I also used Cottage Blossoms and Innoscence flowers to add to the Love Note flowers. They compliment the book perfectly without over powering the pages or overall look...

If you want to see how the book was made, you can see the recorded version of the class right here:

http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/13387934

I hope it inspires you to create something of your own!

I will be back soon with more news and projects to share!

Thanks for stopping by...

xoxo Cari

The 4th Inspired Class for Prima

2011-03-09T08:44:00.003-05:00

Hey Friends!
I am so "happy" to have my fourth and final project complete for my Inspired Workshops! And i have to say-it looks cuter in person...gotta work on photog skills-LOL...

It is a tag mini book using Donna's products from her Prima lines. I used canvas, rose trim, flowers and more! This is going to be such a fun project to make-I want to make 10 more for myself! Hopefully it will be posted on the Mini Workshop schedule today if not already. You don't have to be registered at the event to take the mini workshops-they are open to everyone! And there are some really cool projects lined up from the other instructors too. Take a peek at them if you get the chance!

Here is the link: http://donnadowney.com/index.php/mini-workshops/mini-workshops-schedule

"Happy" Tag Mini Book-$30.00
Join me to create this fun mini album made of tags and canvas! Each page is uniquely decorated using Prima flowers, scupltured centers and gorgeous rose trim. This class kit is filled to the brim with scrap happiness!

Here are the first two pages...and that' all I am sharing for now...:)

Supplies;

Donna Downey Cabachon Scultured Flowers

Donna Downey Fabric Word-Happy

Donna Downey Canvas Screen Print Tag Set

Donna Downey Birdcage Screenprint Canvas

Donna Downey Rose Trim

Prima Craftable Flowers

Prima E-Line Flowers

Prima E-Line Pearls

Ribbon

Glimmer Mist

Need To Bring:

Fabri Tac Glue

Crop-O Dile or Hole punch and Eyelet Setter

Trimmer

Scissors

Pencil
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Hope to see you at the event! And thanks for stopping by!

xoxo Cari

Inspired Classes

2011-03-02T06:49:00.002-05:00

Hey friends!
I finished 3 of the 4 Inspired Classes I will be teaching in May and I wanted to share them here! I am trying to get the fourth done and finalized as we speak. EEk-I need uninterrupted time to do it! The boys have been sick all week, so I have been a bit distracted. Thank goodness they are on the mend!

Here is the link to see what the event is all about: http://www.donnadowney.com/index.php/inspired-artists-workshops
My super sweet friend Lolly is one of the featured artists teaching at the event-she has an awesome project in store for the attendees. I am so excited for her! And the rest of the artists are amazing too....go check it out!

I am teaching four mini workshops at the event for Prima. All of the mini workshops look amazing and so fun! Here is the schedule to see what is being offered and hopefully my classes will be posted today: http://www.donnadowney.com/index.php/mini-workshops/mini-workshops-schedule

Flower Mini Book-$35.00
This mini book project is made entirely of flowers! We will create a one of kind project using over sized flowers, gorgeous papers, and more! This class is chock full of Prima goodness and fun techniques too!

Floral Necklace and Tote Pin-$27.00
Let’s take our scrapbook supplies to a whole new level and create fun jewelry using gorgeous Prima products! We will mist and color to customize the pieces to your liking, making them as unique as you are!

Homemade Crown -$30.00

Get ready to create something unique and beautiful using Prima products. I will show you how to put together a gorgeous crown fit for a queen. This project can be made for a special friend, to display in your home or to wear around the house while you clean! We will have so much fun creating this project together!

Hope you'll join me and the other amazing teachers for a weekend of creativity and fun... This event is amazing!

Bee back soon with the final project!

xoxox Cari

Ranger Designer Challenge 2011

2011-02-16T15:52:00.004-05:00

Hey friends!
Can you believe two posts in one week? LOL! I was reminded by Sharon today, that my project is posted on the Ranger blog. I was invited to be a part of the Ranger Designer Challenge for the winter show-I was so excited to be asked! Sharon was asked too! Her project is so sweet...

The challenge this year, was to use Ranger's Perfect Pearls with Sticky Back Canvas from Claudine Hellmuth's Studio Line. I had no idea what to make at first. The new Pearl colors are so pretty-the new colors are Grape Fizz, Blue Raspberry, Sour Apple and Pink Gumball. The sparkle reminded me of butterfly wings and that's when I knew what to create.

The background was made using a few different colors of Studio paint-Pink, Orange, Yellow and Red. After blending the colors and getting the shades just right, I added the Grape Fizz and Gold Pearl powders in different areas. I covered wire hangers with sticky canvas that were painted brown and dusted with gold to create the branches. I also colored some canvas with Lettuce Adirondack paint, stamped with the Perfect Medium and dusted them with Gold too. Then I cut out some leaves from it.

The flowers are, Prima Craftables. I added Studio paint in the flower center, sprayed them with Iridescent Pearl Spray and added a pearl. When I sprayed over the paint in the center of the flowers-the paint bubbled up a bit-the effect was so cool! I am definitely trying that again on another project soon.

I cut the butterfly out by hand. I sketched it on the canvas first. The base of the butterfly is one large piece. It came out a lot larger than I had originally anticipated. Haha!

Then I cut out several smaller pieces to layer over the wings. I painted it with Studio paint-Smidge of Blue, then added black around the wing edges. I mixed Blue Raspberry and Grape Fizz pearls-then blended them over the wings. I used the Perfect Pearls pen to outline the smaller shapes on the wings for a defined look.

I think this project looks way better in person. I was really happy with the outcome-it exceeded my expectations. And I was so nervous knowing it would be displayed in the Ranger booth, with all of the amazing pieces everyone submitted. No pressure-ha!

Here is a link to the Ranger Blog so you can see all of the other amazing pieces that were submitted:
http://blog.rangerink.com/blog/

Thanks for stopping by!
xoxo Cari

CHA project and more...

2011-02-11T08:26:00.002-05:00

Hey Friends!
Things have been crazy since my return from Los Angeles and I apologize for once again leaving my blog unloved. Even after being gone for a week of work, I had more work to get done when I returned. I had so much fun and it was great to see everyone from Prima. Tami opened up her home to four of us and she was an amazing hostess! She put up with our craziness and late night laughs. I got to see so many old friends and new ones too-thats my favorite part about CHA. It's nice to connect with everyone in person, give them a hug and catch up a little. And a big thanks to Pom for taking such good care of us while were there-love her!

I arrived a day early to help with preparations for CHA. I had no idea I would be altering a life sized dressform. This is by far the largest project I have ever taken on and I surprised myself with the results. I named her Lucy. She is adorned with gorgeous Prima papers (Botanical Collection), flowers, trim and metal trinkets. Sandi brought in her sewing machine (thanks Sandi!), some muslin and embroidery floss--then I got to work. We had one day to get our dressforms made and ready for the booth.

I cut long strips of patterned papers, sewed them together end to end, and added a strip of gathered muslin down the centers. Then I weaved the long paper strips through the metal. I put Pom to work and had her cut out the postcard images from the papers, attached them to lace ribbon and made that the bottom of her skirt. Some metal flower trinkets were added along the lace strip too. I tied long pieces of tulle under the postcard skirt and fluffed them out to give the skirt a little softness.

I took skinny long pieces of patterned paper and sewed them end to end. I crumpled them to make them look like fabric swags and attached them to the metal with strips of muslin. Between each paper weave, I added rows of flowers, trim and lace to give the skirt a finished look. The bust was made with strips of paper, with pleats added to look like a corset, topped with gorgeous Prima trim that has rhinestones running along the center-it finished it off perfectly!

And the back of the bust was completely covered with Innoscence flowers-all white and different styles mixed in. You can see them in the packaging on the top right corner displayed in the booth.

I was so happy with the results and she was a star in the booth! Would I do it again? In a heart beat! It was so much fun!

There were three other dressforms in the booth that were just as stunning and all so different...I will post them once I get some photos together.

Thanks for stopping by-hopefully i will get a moment to update again soon.

xoxo Cari

2011-01-18T08:47:00.002-05:00

Hey friends!
Sorry it's been so long since I have posted. Time seems to slip away this time of year when I am getting ready for CHA. There is always so much to be done before leaving and I am leaving early to boot! There is more work to be done when I arrive in California, so they needed me to go a few days before the show.

So I have been busy, creating and planning, at my scrap table everyday. Live with Prima has also kept me busy, with classes, moderating and scheduling. The classes have been a huge success and we are coming up on our first anniversary in February! Can you believe it's been a year? It flew by and it has grown so much over the past year. And it keeps getting better! I really love my job and I have made so many new friends-it has been a wonderful journey so far. If you haven't had the chance to see what it's all about, then I encourage you to do so. I gurantee you will learn something new in each and every class. Not to mention, the sneak peek show I just aired last week, loaded with so many new goodies that Prima is coming out with. My show ended up being two parts because of a glitch on ustream.

You can see them here-
Part 1: http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/11963192
Part 2: http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/11964306

And here are a couple of the layouts that I demonstrated on the show. Sorry if the photos are a little fuzzy-I am still trying to adjust to my new camera. I think I need a better lense for it. These layouts were made using the new Sparkling Spring paper line by Prima. The colors are very soft yet bright and happy. I didn't think I would like it when I first saw it, but now I love it! I had to come up with photos that work with it so I know they've been seen before, but thats OK! I needed extra layouts for Kate's album. :) Mary will love that!

I used new lace/bling borders, flowers and alphabet (love the new font!) mixed in with the papers. I also added rub-ons and chipboard accents too. I love mixing it all together!

And here is a little closeup shot of a flower cluster on the page. I just love the wire and bead work in the flower center!

This is another layout I showcased. You can see how to assemble it on the show. I use lots of pop dots to add dimension to the layout. And I also cut out some paper strips from one of the patterned papers for the scalloped edges. More chipboard

accents and rub ons were added too. And then, finish it off with some bling and a title.

Here is another close up of the new flowers and bling! So fun to mix it all up together...

OK-thats all for now! I hope to be back with more new projects for you soon!

Thanks for stopping by as always! Have a great day!

xoxo Cari

Is it time yet?

2010-12-21T06:45:00.003-05:00

Hey friends!!
The anticipation in this house is huge! The boys can not wait for Christmas and I added a song to my playlist that represents the feeling perfectly! It's the song from the Target commercial. LOL! We are just about ready-just need to do some last minute shopping, clean the house a bit and get ready for Uncle Matt's arrival. I have a cookie exchange with my girls Wednesday night (or as Pete calls it-Chardonnay night-haha!) I am a lot less stressed with so much crossed off my list. And i have come to the realization that not everything needs to be perfect. Why put that kind of pressure on myself-right?

Here is a Prima mini book I made using their Christmas papers, flowers and clear BAB pages. I just love the red-it's so vibrant! I mixed aquas, pinks, lime green and reds together to match the papers. This was really fun to create. I stamped some swirls using aqua colored paint and then added silver swirls too. Then added a mix of silver ribbon with lace and more ribbon on the book ring too.

I still have to add photos to the pages but it's easier for everyone to see how I put the book together without them for now. More flower clusters and cute little bling images throughout the book and areas for journaling.

I used the white backing from the snowflake Voila felt strip and layered bling snowflakes over it. All of the paper edges were distressed a bit. I also used ribbon and lace for a decorative touch to border the page. Brads and centers adorn some of the flower centers too.

It was so fun mixing and matching the flowers. Adding silver leaves and sparkly centers give a holiday feel from ordinary flowers. And another piece of snowflake backing was added to the background too.

I love the look of the felt aplhabet-it's soft and bold at the same time. And the hot pink color matches the paper too. And it wouldn't be right if I didn't add an oversized ribbon here and there too...

Can't wait to add some holiday photos to this little beauty! Thanks for stopping by! I will have another holiday project post before the big day. Hope you all have a fun creative week...

xoxo Cari

Candy Wreath for the holidays!

2010-12-14T16:11:00.004-05:00

Hey friends!
I finally made my candy wreath video! Time has been slipping away and I wanted to get this done for everyone. I have been busy each day with work and getting ready for Christmas-but it's all good! I hope to share a few more ideas with you before the craziness really starts!

If you are looking for a cool gift idea-these candy wreaths are great for offices, housewarming, neighbors and more! This is also a great project for older kids that want to make gifts too.
They are really easy to make and inexpensive too! I like to shop for the candy at dollar stores, Target, grocery store, etc..And if you want to make a lot of them-go to Sam's club for large containers. I hope you enjoy the video and let me know if you have any questions in the comment section-I am happy to help!

For the Candy Wreath-you will need:
Wire Hanger-the brass ones, not the white
Pliers
Wire Cutters
Yarn
Ribbon Pieces-to hang it
Hard Candies-with twist tied ends (like the starlight mints)-I tend to get about 7 bags to make a few wreaths.
Scissors

Candy Wreath Tutorial with Cari Fennell from Cari Fennell on Vimeo.

Have a great day!!
xoxo Cari

Prima Mini Album

2010-11-27T08:19:00.002-05:00

Hey friends!
I hope everyone is having a great weekend! Did you shop on Black Friday? I did not, but I did end up at the mall yesterday to take Bryan to the skate park. Matt is in town from NYC and we took him over there to see Bry skate. I had Matt bring his camera home so we could take some photos and maybe make a couple videos! He has a Canon 7D-it's amazing and I am totally jealous! We took a couple pics of Bry skating and some video too. I also took some pics of a couple projects and i plan to make a scrap video or two.

Here is a mini album I have been reunited with! I made this for CHA Winter 2010 for the release of our Canvas Build A Books. They kept it for some shows to display. I made it literally right before I went to the show so I never took any pics of it. Now that it's home, I photographed it so I could share it here. And I used Matt's camera-they came out pretty good.

I mixed some old book paper with Prima's Shabby Chic and Raspberry Tea collections. I cut out some images-the birds and roses, then mixed them in with flowers, velvet leaves and pearl swirls. The chip letters were Glimmer Misted with Walnut Gold and placed in the flower center. I added an unusual color combo of ribbons to the book rings-but they work with my color scheme. Burnt orange and light pink.

The first two pages inside: I layered some patterned papers with more book paper. I stamped the frame and and label on patterned papers then cut them out to use as a page accents. I added a mix of flowers that match the soft color scheme. I think it adds more interest when you add bolder colors to the mix as long as they don't overpower the pages.

Here I added more bold flowers with lots of paper layering. I cut out some of the images from the patterned paper, added chipboard elements with cream lace and more gold crystal swirls. I aslo stamped the bird on the left page, bottom right corner and some butterflies above the flower cluster on the right.

Here are the last two pages with more stamped labels, paper layering and flower clusters. A little bit of bold color tucked in there with velvet leaves and bling. All of the paper edges throughout the album are distressed and I sprayed Walnut Gold Glimmer Mist very lightly over all of the pages for a subtle aged look.

I am so happy to finally share this mini with everyone-I hope it inspires you to create one of your own! I have another I have been reunited with, so I plan to share that one soon!

Enjoy the rest of your weekend! I hope it's a creative one!

xoxo Cari

Christmas Wreath class on Live with Prima!

2010-11-14T08:42:00.002-05:00

Hey friends!
I hope everyone is having a great weekend! The Syracuse area has been blessed with lots of sunshine and decent temperatures, so the yard work is in full force. We have very large trees in our yard, so we have had a blanket of leaves covering the grass everyday. We rake and then the next day, it looks like we never raked the day before-it's crazy! And frustrating. And we may get in trouble for all of the leaf piles taking up half the road in front of our house.

And last week, Bryan had to do a big project on his family origins. Each night last week, we worked on it a little at a time and he had to write a summary about his family. I gave him some information and would talk it over with him, then he had to write it in an essay. I told him Pete's Grandfather came from Ireland for a better way of life and that he still has relatives living there. The sentence that Bryan wrote was: He came over to America from Ireland to find better relatives. LOL...I laughed so hard.

This week-I have a Live with Prima class scheduled on Thursday, November 18th on ustream.com at 9:30pm EST. I will be making a Paper Wreath and I will also show two other examples of wreaths made from different Prima products. They are all easy to recreate and they will make amazing gifts too. The show takes place on the Prima channel on ustream where we have lots of Prima classes we have broadcasted before. There are so many amazing classes on there fill with techniques and project ideas. See the link below.

Here is the paper wreath. It looks like a lot of work, but it really is easy. I will give you all of the instructions on how to make one, all of the supplies and cool techniques that you can use on many other projects as well.

This wreath is so pretty and so simple. There are lights incorporated within the flowers and it looks so elegant when it is lit up. I will show you the base I used and some important tips using the lights and flowers.

The third is a spray wreath made from vines. I bought the base at a local craft store and then embellished with Prima leaves and Gold flowers. There are many tips and techniques included in this class along with the assembly of leaves in the center.

The class is taking place on November 18th at 9:30pm EST. It will last about and hour to an hour and a half. It is going to take place "Live"-I will be broadcasting from my home and I can answer questions during the show. There will be moderators on the chat to help answer any questions you may have about the products used for the projects.

If you can't make the scheduled broadcast, no worries! We record all of the shows, so you can go to the Prima channel and watch the show anytime you want. Scroll down the page and you will see all of the previously recorded shows listed in order. AND-create a free account so you can log in and participate in the chat. We also giveaway a Prima prize at the end of the show-we choose a random winner from all of the chat participants-so log in and chat away for a chance to win. The ladies that come to the show are so friendly and amazing. You will make new friends on there for sure!

Here is the Prima channel on ustream where the show will take place:

http://www.ustream.tv/channel/primaflower

I hope you can join me for the show! We will have so much fun!

OK-end of ramble and I will be back soon with more projects!

xoxo Cari

Cards for the season...

2010-11-09T09:11:00.003-05:00

Hey friends!!
Has everyone adjusted to daylight savings time yet? I have finally-just yesterday but I am still a little off with it getting dark out so early. I am making dinner earlier now because of it and it seems strange to have that extra time at night after dinner is over. With extra time on my hands, I took Bryan to Target last night for feetie pajamas! He loves them and his feeties from last year are a little small. Not to mention the holes that have appeared in the feet. I laugh at the fact that he still insists on wearing them long after the toddler years have passed. The High schooler that was working the register at Target said he loved his feetie pj's for the longest time and now owns a Snuggie because he misses them-LOL! I couldn't believe he confessed such a thing to a total stranger (because-as we all know-teens are too cool to talk to Mom's let alone their love for feetie pajamas and now snuggies). But I guess some boys will always be little boys at heart.

I have some seasonal cards I want to share with you. Some are more involved than others, but they are all easy to recreate if you plan to make several for this time of year to send out to loved ones. I made some of them recently and some are from past seasons that I still love... I will try my best to explain the techniques used to create these cards as well as the exact products so you can give them a try.

This first card is one of my all time favorites. I used an acrylic set from Sassafrass Lass. The deer is so adorable and I really love their images. I used Adirondack Dye inks-Lettuce, Terra Cotta and Espresso. The sentiment is from Hero Arts and the rest is Sassafrass Lass. The ribbon is from Creative Impressions-love that dot ribbon! All cardstock is from Bazzill. Punch two holes in the card crease and run the ribbon through it. The tree branch and the deer are stamped slightly off the card front.

This next card is such a fun Christmas card to make. I used Prima felt-the trees come in a long stirp where you get five on a strip. I peeled off the backing to expose the adhesive, and loaded it with silver glitter. Then I attached the felt piece with Fabri Tac to the card front. I used Christmas Fancy paper and green lace (cut down the center length wise) from Prima. I cut a long cardstock strip and knotched out the ends. Then I stamped a sentiment on a rectangular piece of cardstock and I tucked the lace behind the top and bottom of the strip-then adhered to the card below the tree.

Sorry for the crappy photo of this card :P I love this one and had to share because it is so easy to make several of these. I can always tuck a photo of the boys on the inside with a nicely written note. All of the stamps used on this card are from Amuse Art Stamps. They are cling mounted rubber stamps-you get the quality of stamping with Red Rubber and the ease of seeing where you are stamping when mounted on a clear block. Apply Shabby Shutters and Peeled paint ditress inks to the holly-light to dark color wise. You always want to add the lighter color first. Stamp off the card front on the top left. If there are areas that did not take the ink well-take a waterbrush or a small brush dipped in water and smooth out the ink in the areas that need color filled in. If you ever stamp and there is an area that is missing ink-that is a sure way to fill in with color. You can also take the brush direct to the ink pad to pick up more color to fill in too. Stamp the sentiment and berries with Ladybug Memento ink-a nice red-and add red stickles to the berries. I will try to post a better photo of this card.

Here is an easy fall card that I just love! The pumpkins and sentiment are from A Muse Art stamps. The pumpkins are a clear set that come with Jack O Lantern faces to stamp over the pumpkin images. But in this case-I just wanted the pumpkins. I applied Spiced Marmalade and Rusty Hinge distress inks to the pumpkins and then added peeled paint to the stems. I applied the ink pad direct to the stamps. I stamped the pumpkins slightly overlapping one another. Then punch out with a 2inch circle punch from MArvy. Then a scalloped punch from green cardstock. Adhere the two circles together using foam tape. Apply the green patterned paper from A Muse onto the orange card font. Adhere the lace across where the orange and green meet, stamp sentiment on lower right of card and then apply the prepared circles. I used a dark orange for the sentiment but I recommend using Walnut Stain or Vintage photo Distress Ink for it instead.

Here is another fun card to create! Stamps on this card are also from A Muse Art Stamps-the large snowflake and the sentiment. Cut out a rectangle of heavier cardstock or watercolor paper. I used some scraps from my leftover Paintable paper from Prima. Stamp the snowflake twice using Distress Emboss ink, then sprinkle with clear or white embossing powder. Tap off the excess powder in a tray or coffee filter, heat set. I stamped off the image on the top right and lower left of the card. Now-the image will act as a resist once the embossing is done. Take Distress inks-Tumbled Glass, Broken China and Chipped Sapphire and apply over the snowflakes. You can use your foam distress tool or apply the ink pad direct to paper. Start light to dark with ink colors. There is a slight variation in colors once they are all applied and the technique works perfectly leaving you with white snowflakes! Add Prima E-Line pearls to the snowflake centers and then staple you sentiment at the top left of the card front. I stamped the sentiment with Chipped Sapphire. Adhere to green cardstock-or....take white cardstock card base and apply Crushed Olive Distress ink to the outer edges (direct to paper or with ink blending tool, and adhere snowflake piece to the card front. Then finish off the card with Dazzling Diamonds or Irredescent Gold Glimmer Mist-light mist!

This next card is so easy and it has a store bought look! Create a card base from Olive colored cardstock. Adhere A Muse patterned paper to the center-I cut it 5in x 3 3/4in, tie a white ribbon around the card and finish with a bow. Stamp a large snowflake using Versafine Chalk ink-Sea Breeze on cream cardstock, then A Muse Madeira stamp in Versa Tea Leaves over the center of the snowflake-then punch out with Marvy circle punch. The snowflake stamp I used is no longer available BUT-Hero Arts just came out with a snowflake cling set that will work great! Punch out a scalloped circle from same color olive cardstock and adhere both circles together. Adhere over the ribbon and add a pearl to the center. The ribbon is a basic silky ribbon I found rolls of in the dollar ribbon bin at Michaels.

This last card is another easy and fun card to make. I stamped the background with a Hero Arts background stamp called Dots and Flowers. I inked it up with Distress embossing ink-then removed some of the ink from the outer edges of the stamp. Aplly the stamp to Kraft colored cardstock, sprinkle with fine gold emboss powder by Ranger, tap off excess and heat set. Punch out two circles using Marvy punches from white and red cardstock-and adhere together. Then Adhere two layers of Poinsettia flowers with leaves. Add a pearl to the flower center. The flowers can be found in a round tin at Michaels-they include leaves too. Use a coupon if you want and you have a fabulous tin after they are all gone.

I hope you liked this segment on cards! I have many more card ideas to share with you that are easy and fast for the holidays, so be sure to check back soon!

Have a great day!

xoxo Cari

Another layout for Ally Scraps

2010-10-28T16:34:00.002-04:00

Hey everyone!
I can't believe it is the last week in October! This fall season has flown by and November is knocking on the door. The leaves have been spectacular, the weather has been amazing and the boys are so excited for Halloween! I love Halloween too. I am going to get some fun photos this weekend when we carve pumpkins, visit some friends and they get dressed up.
Here is my final project for Ally Scraps, with pictures of Frank eating berries in the yard in her bare feet. Love her little pony tales too. :) I used October Afternoon papers, Sass A Frass Lass papers, die cuts, bling and my new edge punch!

I love tying bows around my layouts and the buttons add the perfect final touch. I slid the diecuts under the bow with silver gems on each flower petal. All of the paper edges are distressed and inked with vintage photo distress ink. I used Thickers for the title with sticker labels. I used a journal card from OA too.

Ally Scraps is such a great online store with new products arriving all the time. And their shipping is super fast too!

Check them out here: http://www.allyscraps.com/

OK-back to work now! Be back soon with more to share!

xoxo CAri

Fall decor using Prima...

2010-10-23T09:08:00.003-04:00

Hey friends!
Hope everyone had a good week and the weekend holds lots of creative time for you.
I did some shopping for the boys this week-they needed clothes! I am always amazed at how fast they grow out of things. Bryan is still a twig-so his waist is tiny but his legs keeps getting longer. And Jack is filling out everywhere! He is getting taller by the day but still hasn't reached his mama-ha! Oh and his long hair is gone again-no more surfer dude look-and he looks so much older all of the sudden...I am going to take a couple of pics this weekend.

I was shopping at my local M's and found some cute pumpkins on sale. I knew they would look great with some Prima flowers and bling. I added the flowers using Fabri Tac, I tied some toulle around the stem and created a tag from left over paper. The word is stamped and embossed on the tag-I used Distress Emboss ink with black fine powder and heat set. Then I added gold powder to the edges and heat set that as well.

I love the crackled look on the purple pumpkin-it looks so cool! I added just a bit of flowers and leaves, careful not to over power it with flowers because of it's size.

To finish it off-I added black swirls around the top. I adhered them with a little extra glue to make sure it stays when packing it away.

These look pretty cool on my buffet. I love the pop of color added to my decor for the season-just like the orange leaves I am seeing outside right now. And this project was so easy to do!

Thanks for stopping by! I have more projects to share including a layout I created for Ally Scraps...be back soon!

xoxo CAri

Another project for Ally Scraps and Live with Prima class!

2010-10-10T09:00:00.005-04:00

Hello friends!!
I have officially cleaned out my scrap space! I was a huge mess from a couple months of traveling, classes, and preparing projects for upcoming events. It feels so good to have it cleaned up and everything is put away in it's place. I went out and bought new baskets from Michaels that were 50% off to house my Glimmer Mist and paints. They are called Harvest baskets, but they are very simple and look perfect on my shelves. I will post pics later. It literally took a whole day... And now to clean the rest of my house...sigh.

OK-onto more news! I am hosting a Live with Prima class Tuesday Night! YAY! I am going to make a Halloween banner using all kinds of Prima goodies, including lace, Little Boo papers and more. I have several techniques to share that I think everyone will like and I think this would be a nice addition to your Halloween decor...it's so fun to make and really easy too! The class is free and it airs at 6:30pm PST/9:30pm EST.

Please join me on Prima's Ustream channel to see this class and join the chat here: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/primaflower

Explore Mini Album;
Here is another project for Ally Scraps! This album has to be one of my favorites to date. I just went for it! I used October Afternoon Fly A Kite and Thrift Shop papers, mini book and journal cards. Ribbons, tags, pebbles and Kraft envelopes too.
I painted the covers in Lettuce green using Adirondack acrylic paints by Ranger. I layered paper, a journal card and a big ribbon on the cover. The ribbon is one of my very favorites by May Arts. They come in a variety of colors and I use them all the time.

For the pages inside, I cut out large rectangles of various patterned papers and used a scallop punch around all of the paper edges. Then I created a pocket for each page by sewing the flash cards to the papers.

I distressed the paper edges and inked them with Vintage photo Distress Ink by RAnger. I layered journal cards with Kraft envelopes and patterned papers. I also used the label stickers by OA for extra journal spots and titles.

I tucked tags and journal cards into the page pockets throughout the album. Simply add some ribbon pieces to the tops of the tags with little trinkets like page pebbles.

The envelopes can be used for extra journaling or photos too.

I love the vintage look of those journal cards-they are too sweet! I added some scalloped circles and ribbons to layer with them as well as buttons and bling.

Now this little book is ready for photos and jouranling! I really love how it came together.

Most of the supplies I used can be found at Ally Scraps! They have such an amazing shop with tons of goodies to choose from! Check them out here: http://www.allyscraps.com/

And their blog has loads of inspiration and fun challenges: http://allyscrapsblog.blogspot.com/

Thanks for stopping by! I will have some fall treats coming your way.

xoxo Cari

Hey hey!

2010-09-30T23:56:00.002-04:00

What is the world coming to? Blogging twice in one week? I know-crazy! It is late at night right now but I am too jazzed up to go to bed. It's been quite a week but a very productive one I must say. Live with Prima has a ton of great stuff coming up and i have been working hard at getting everything organized through December. We have some amazing designers joining us for some awesome Prima classes in the next couple of months. Claudine Helmuth-yes-the amazing collage artist-will be guest designing on October 26th! I am so excited to have her on the show. She will rock it!

Sharon and I were in Minnesota this month for Scrapfest at Mall of America. It was so fun and crazy busy! They set up the entire event throughout the mall, with classes, make and takes, demos and crops. It was so wonderful to meet so many scrappers from all over that area! And i got to meet the one and only Kathy (kathask) and her super sweet Mom during the show. I was so glad to meet them in person--love them! Here is a photo Kathy's Mom took of us after the Prima workshop. Thanks for the photos girl!

AND----I am guest desiging for AllyScraps.com this month!!!!!!! Thanks Dana for the invite!
They have such a great online store-they have been around for quite a while! Lots of goodies in their shop, a great blog full of ideas (so inspiring) and a nice quaint message board that you won't get lost in. So friendly over there!

Here is a link to the site:
http://www.allyscraps.com/Default.asp

oh and they are giving away prizes for just commenting on their blog--how cool!
http://allyscrapsblog.blogspot.com/

They sent me a generous goodie bag of products from October Afternoon and Maya Road. Here is a minibook I made using their Canvas Pocket Album and Farm Fresh paper line from OA. I just fell in love with this adorable paper line. I think I may have to give this little album to Gavin...
Lots of layering with papers, pins, alphas and more. I just love the charms too.
I decided to leave the canvas plain-I really like that way...

Here are a few pages inside. More papers, labels and cute little animals everywhere. And nothing is complete without some ribbon and flowers.

The pockets are little pages included in the little book-how cute are they? I added some stickers and stapled a little phrase at the bottom. And more pins with charms. The charms are little fruits and birds and butterflies that come in all colors.

This is the other side of the pocket page with flowers tucked underneath the flower stickers. And a sweet little journal card with added embellies. Oh and i see the cow's fanny from the next page-LOL! Never realized that when I took the photo...haha....

OK-getting tired now! Thanks for stopping by! I hope you liked my little book and i have another project I just completed for them that I will share soon. If you can't wait for me to post-head on over to their blog to check it out...http://allyscrapsblog.blogspot.com/

Night friends!

xoxo CAri

Another layout to share....

2010-09-24T08:26:00.006-04:00

Has it really been almost a month since I posted? Sheesh!

Sorry for that. I am constantly told to post more often and I really should! It's really about not taking the time to do things for myself and this effects me in all aspects of my life right now. I have a "to-do" list about a mile long and I have been unmotivated to create lately. I think knowing there is so much on my plate, I get overwhelmed and it causes me to shut down. I think I need to just set aside some time to organize and gather my thoughts. I need to think about one thing at a time, it will be much more productive and a lot less overwhelming.

Wish me luck on this new plan!

OK-onto the project! Here is a layout I created in my hotel room at CHA. I wanted to experiment with Prima's new masks and I just love the Hot Air Balloons! The background paper is a piece from the new Fairy Flora Collection. It was a subtle design so I thought it would work really well for the masking. I sprayed the mask a few times, creating a border on the left. I used Olive Vine Glimmer Mist and then added dabs of glue around the images for the glitter. I sprayed Vintage Pink around the background to warm up the color pallete.

This is a photo of all the Fennell kids on the fourth of July. We take a photo every year out on the dock at the lake when we are all there. It's really the only time of year we are all together for a photo like this. Everyone is so busy and spread out everywhere, so we take advantage of this opportunity.

I layered papers behind the photo and then added the flowers. I chose colors from the photo to compliment it-none of the kids "match" but this works! I love the color palette.

The new bling leaves added a lot of interest to the flower clusters without overwhelming it. I also love the texture and font of the new alphabet Prima released. So fun to use!

And here is a close up of the sprayed areas. I sprayed heavier in some spots than others. I didn't want it to look perfect and that was the look I was going for.

OK-so thats all for now. I do have a mini album i want to share too. I think it needs to be posted all on it's own. I will upload it in a couple of days. Right now-I need to finish some work and get myself ready for some creativity.

Thanks as always for stopping by! I LOVE the comments!

xoxo Cari

New layouts and more!

2010-09-03T16:15:00.004-04:00

Hey friends!!!
I hope everyone is having a great day and you have something fun planned for the weekend! We are headed to the Lake for some R&R with Family and friends. I am so looking forward to it. Our last hoorah before school begins. Sigh...I don't love the school schedule and even though the boys are a pain in my fanny sometimes-I do miss them when they go back. But thats changes soon after they start and I my house to myself :)

This month, I have been asked to guest design for Dusty Attic-they make the most amazing laser die cut shapes! They are a company out of Australia and fairly new in the industry. I think they are going to be big because their products are gorgeous and so fun to use! Check out their site-they have some many amazing samples that they share in their gallery--it is very inspiring!
Check them out here:
http://dustyattic.ning.com/

Here are a couple of layouts I made for them this month. I created this layout titled "Sweet" using their butterflies and corner accents. I painted the butterflies in 3 different colored acrylic paints. Then spritzed them with water to make the paint flow over the surface. Then I covered them with the Rock Candy paint and inked them as well. I added some black pearls to the bodies.
All of the papers, flowers and lettering is from Prima, Flights of Fancy Collection.
After it was finished, I sprayed the entire layout with Wheatfields Glimmer Mist from Tattered Angels-love that color! It added a bit of an aged look that I was going for.

The decorative corners-I inked up with Distress Embossing Ink by Ranger, sprinkled gold embossing powder over the surface and then heat set. The surface looks like brass or gold metal-I love the way they turned out. I also painted the tab that the title is placed on with Tan acrylic paint from Claudine Helmuth.

This is the second layout i created for them titled "Love You":I used two larger decorative brackets. I painted them in tan using Claudine Helmuth's paints, then layered them with a coat of Distress Rock Candy crackle paint. Then I applied Vintage photo distess ink to bring out the porcelain type crackling on the pieces.

Then I cut apart the Ornate frames and put two cots of Green Apple smooch over the pieces. Then tucked them around the flower clusters to make them look like 3 dimensional leaves.

All of the papers are from the Raspberry Tea paper collection by Prima. The flowers are also Prima- Caravan, Queen Anne and Tea Roses. I added De Vine felt stems to add to the layering of the scrolled pieces. The letters are from their new alphabet collections too.

Love the sprinkled suger look of the flowers and the sparkle of the scrolls I painted from the Ornate frames. It all came together so well!

My Live with Prima class at Stampin & Scrappin Time in Bridgeport NY was fabulous until I saw that Ustream had deleted a large portion of the taping...UGH!!! But no worries! I re-recorded it and they tried to sabatoge it again but I rallied! The retaping is in two part segments on the Prima channel on Ustream.

Here are the links if you want to watch! I don't have any make up on or my hair done-LOL!

It was planned at the last minute!

Part 1: http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/8985488

Part 2: http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/8986089

And here is a photo of me and Holly from my original show night! She is wearing one of my crowns-which she looks fab by the way-and she made me these awesome cupcakes for the show! Loved them!

OK-thats all for now! I will be back with more news, projects and more!

xoxo CAri

2010-08-13T08:56:00.002-04:00

Hello everyone!
And happy Friday! I have class lined up for tonight on Live with Prima and another project from CHA to share too. And then I hope to get more projects finished for next week. This post is kind of wordy-sorry for that!

Live with Prima on the Road!! This is my Joy Mini Album I am going to create tonight for my class. I am teaching this class for Prima at my local scrapbook store called Stampin & Scrappin Time in Bridgeport NY. It's just 15 minutes outside of Syracuse. I will have a classroom full of attendees and it will be aired "live" at the same time for anyone around the world to tune in and watch from home.

Here is the store from where i will be teaching! It's really quaint and artsy-and everyone there is soooo helpful and friendly!
Their blog: http://stampinscrappintimeny.blogspot.com/

Class time: 7:00pm EST, 6:00pm CST, 5:00pm GMT, 4:00pm PST

You can watch the class live from here: http://www.livewithprima.com/live.html
or log into ustream.com and see it here: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/primaflower

Everyone is welcome to join in on the chat! Create a free account on ustream and then log in. Search "prima flowers" and click on the Prima logo to see the class and chat box. You can tune in anytime you want and if you can't make it for the show-we record all of them so you can watch it at your leisure.
I will create this project from start to finish. There will be some clever ideas incorporated into each page and fun techniques too!
This is a mini album made from Prima packaging. Prima has an amazing Go Green Concept program where all of our packaging can be re-used for all kinds of projects. It's like getting free product when you purchase our flowers or embellishments.

If you love this project and would like to purchase a kit for yourself to recreate it-kits are available here:
http://www.livewithprima.com/classes.html
Brand new CHA Summer 2010 products are in this kit, so you can be one of the first to have these new goodies in your hands! How cool is that?
Here is a list of the kit contents and kit price-
In this Kit:
841959 – Annalee 6x6 Paper Pad-New
534950 – white lace, 1 yard
537821 – Symphony Blend Orange
536527 – Gem Alphabet Sticker Turquoise
541651 - Annalee Journaling Chipboard-New
535292 – SIIP Swirls with Flowers Pink-New
542276 – Clementine Olivia-New
542238 – Clementine Bella-New
532086 – Velvet Rose Leaves Baby Blue
537005 – Devines – Orchid Bush
535544 – Mini Rose Bright Teal
PE-002-23P – Mini Rose White
535551 – Mini Rose Lime
Kit Cost: $55.00

I hope you can join me and chat with us during the class! We are going to have so much fun!
Here are a couple peeks at the book I will be creating:

And I have another layout to share with you! This layout of Kate is one of my faves to date. She is such a sweetie! I used Prima's brand new Paisley Road paper line from CHA. I mixed in a bunch of goodies such as, chipboard embellishments, Coordinating flowers, page pebbles, pearl swirls and a cute butterfly. This layout has tons of layering added. I cut out flowers and shapes, then attached them with foam tape for the dimension.

All of the paper edges are distressed and I added some dynasty centers here and there to the flower centers.

Here's a close up of some of the details. Paper cut outs mixed in with flowers, pearls and chipboard.

I will be back after the weekend with more news and goodies to share!

And I hope you can make it to my class! I would love to see everyone there!

Have a great weekend everyone!

xoxo CAri

2010-08-08T09:55:00.004-04:00

Hey there!
I hope everyone is having a nice relaxing weekend! I unfortunately, have been cleaning and organizing! My family room in the basement was a disaster and it was long over due. It took me almost the entire day to work on it. Today will be the same, more cleaning. But it feels good to get it done.

Thank you so much for commenting for the blog candy. I used the random integer website to choose a number and here is the result:

True Random Number Generator Min: 1 Max: 19

Result: 6

The winner is Fryne!!! Congrats!

Fryne said...
oh my godness! I totally adore your style and those flower clusters you make :)

E-mail me with your address so I can send out your goodies!

cari@primamarketinginc.com

I promise to have blog candy again soon, so make sure to check back when you can, for another chance to win more goodies. :)

And -I wanted to share more projects with you. These are some hair combs I decorated with new Prima flowers called Autumn Harvest. I just love the purples and blues mixed together. I mixed in some blue mulberry leaves and gold temple leaves too. Fabri Tac worked really well to hold everything together.

Unfortunately, one of these lovelies dissappeared at the show. (insert sad face here) But I can always make more and someone must of really really wanted it. And the funny thing is-if they had asked, I probably would have given it to them anyway.

The possibilities are endless for a project like this. You could mix and match all kinds of flowers for any occasion.

Thanks for stopping by-I'll be back soon with more news and projects!

xoxo Cari

More Prima projects and blog candy!

2010-08-06T10:55:00.003-04:00

Hey friends!!!
I feel rested from CHA-it was crazy hard work-and I am trying to get through my list of post CHA stuff that needs to get done. And I am preparing to venture out to Chicago again for the Scrapbook Expo in St. Charles, August 20th and 21st. Prima has a booth at the expo and we are doing free make and takes there! Rebecca is venturing out with me. If anyone plans to go, please stop by to see me!

Last night during Marion's Live with Prima class-someone suggested I do some blog candy. And I thought it was a great idea! Check out the photo below. Leave a comment and I will choose a random winner to send out this pile of lovelies! You have until Midnight (EST) tomorrow night, August 7th to comment. I will post the winner here on the blog on Sunday. I may even throw in some extra goodies too...:)

And here is a layout I made for CHA using the new Jack and Jill line by Prima. I took these photos from Christine Middlecamp's blog-I haven't taken my own photos yet. She takes amazing photos too.

I also used some SIIC swirls with lace-they are dreamy! A Carnation branch, new alphabet letters, Sweet Taffy flowers and matching chipboard accents were also used.

Thanks so much for stopping by! I'll be back with a winner and more projects.

xoxo Cari

New Crown...

2010-07-24T00:06:00.003-04:00

Hello everyone!
I am off to CHA is less than 24 hours! I catch a flight out tomorrow afternoon to Chicago to meet up with everyone. I have so much to do to get ready and it's already midnight...ugh!
No worries though-I always manage to get everything done before I leave. I also had to get Jack ready to leave for Camp, which meant running around to 10 different places to get what he needed.
I just wanted to share another project with you before I leave. It's another crown for the Prima booth. I swear-these are so much fun to make! And to wear too! I created the base from Prima packaging. I used Glimmer Mist on the background and then dry brushed gold paint over the surface.

I added German glitter glass to some leaves and placed them over some velvet leaves I had in my stash. The temple leaves really pull it together in the front with a gorgeous new bloom from Prima.

I habd painted a bunch of the flowers you see in blue. And then I added some rich color to some neutral flowers that matched.

Anything goes when making one of these. It can be any color combination, all kinds of textures can be added and just when you think you're done-add a little more for flair!

Thanks so much for stopping by. I'll be back after CHA with more projects and stories to share!

xoxo CAri

Pretty Packaging

2010-07-19T08:15:00.004-04:00

Hey friends!
I'm back with another mini album made from Prima's new releases and this one is my new favorite. I hope you like it!

The pages are made from the flat packaging our flowers come in. Each page is made from two pieces that are glued back to back. All of the edges are embossed in gold. I simply ran my emboss ink pad (I use Distress by the way) around all the pages, sprinkled with fine gold embossing powder and heat set. I love the look! I made three pages all together.

The papers are from Prima's new release this summer-Annalee. I used the same papers on the previous project I posted. I used the 6 x 6 paper pad. The scale of the patterns are great for smaller pages.

I punched three holes in the binding and used lace to hold the pages together. Each page has the new Annalee chipboard embellishments that can be used for journaling or to frame your photos.

On these pages I used the new Clementine roses and matching ribbon strips. In the flowers centers-I placed smaller flowers to add a bit of dimension. You know how I like to layer :)

These papers are really soft and sweet, yet they still have a punch of color throughout the patterns that make it so eye catching--I love that!

OK-gotta go back to work! I have a lot of projects to complete before I leave for Chicago. I promise to share along the way!

Thanks for stopping by!

xoxo Cari

Hello!!

2010-07-13T09:25:00.003-04:00

Hello friends!
I hope everyone is having a fabulous summer! We just got home from the lake, and it's crunch time for CHA and I have a ton going on with Live with Prima. I just know that from now until August is going to fly right by...eeek! I want Summer to last a few more months. We are making the best of it. The kids have not stopped--they are so busy and having a blast.

We are showing sneak peeks on the Prima blog of all the new amazing lines coming out for CHA and the girls have out done themselves with their projects! I wanted to share a new project I made using the new Annalee paper Line with some chip embellies, new pearl swirls and silky flowers.

This is our BAB canvas mini book in pink and white. I added Glimmer Mist and old book papers to the pages.

Prima came out with new little stamp sets too that are too sweet. I stamped some butterflies here and there thorughout the book.

I love adding the chip accents to each page-they really helped tie the pages together and added something new for each page. They are glittered too-gotta love that!

For the front and back covers-I added clear pages. They will protect anything from getting bent or pulled off in transit to and from places. I think I may add paint to the edges and some stamped images too.

Thats all for now. I'll be back with some more projects as I progress through the week.

I am in high gear to get my projects finished!

Thanks for stopping by!

xoxo Cari

Oldie but goodie...

2010-06-25T08:16:00.002-04:00

Hey everyone!
I hope you are having a fabulous summer so far! The boys are done with school and it's total carnage around here with a locker cleaned out and papers brought home from a desk that I would have never believed could have fit all that stuff! Didn't they clean out once in a while?

I have a bunch of projects i am working on at the moment but I can't share just yet. So i was browsing through my files looking for who-knows-what, and I came across some of my older projects that I still love! So I decided to share a project in hope that they may be inspiring for you.

This is a class I taught two years ago and I still love it. I used a tab book die cut from Accu Cut and plastic with October Afternoon papers. There are some stamped images where I used paint to stamp with, Making Memories Notepad papers, oversized ribbon, Jenni Bowlin Bingo cards and more.
Here is the cover:

A page inside using diecuts, bling and rub ons. I also punched out scalloped squares and cut them in half to use as photo corners.

I love layering elements and collaging them with my photos.

The last page is painted and I added more rub-ons and diecut pieces. I stamped right over the photo using paint as my medium. The paint adds bold color and sits well on most surfaces.

This book contains a collection of my favorite photos over the years. This was such a fun class and everyone loved trying all different embellishments in one little book.

I hope you like it! I'll be back with more projects to share!

Have a great weekend!

xoxo

Here I am!

2010-06-11T06:23:00.003-04:00

Hi friends!
Sorry it's been so long since I've blogged. I was on a roll for a little bit and then life got in the way. Why is Springtime so busy? May was a blur...

School is coming to an end soon and the boys are sooo ready to be done. They are tired of homework and the schedule. I don't blame them.

Onto other things--I have a project that I made for a class last fall but never shared. I created a mini album out of refill pages and packaging. These are baby photos of Bryan when he was about 18 months old. My friend Suzanne took these photos in her studio-she is so talented!
All of the pages in the book are canvas refills for Donna Downey's 8x8 canvas albums. Then I backed the last page with a large piece of packaging. The packaging is from our felt stems. The cover is painted on the edges, I added Prima Paradise City papers to the cover and pages inside.
All of the pages are bound with oversized black ribbon.

On the inside pages I painted the edges with lettuce and gold acrylic paints by Ranger. And I used pink paper for a little boy's book-GASP! I don't care-I love it! Most flowers in the book are cream colored or a neutral tone with the exception of a few. I love adding mini roses too.

Here-I have a felt piece to mat my photo. Along with some pearls, stick pins and an envelope.

More packaging is used here with a canvas sheet, ribbon and pearls. This is the last page so you can see the large packaging in the background. I love how it frames the whole book when it's open or closed. I finished the the album by spraying the entire book with Walnut Gold Glimmer Mist for an aged look. It shimmers and shines oh so subtley......

Thanks for visiting and for all the sweet compliments along the way...I love reading them!

I promise to keep this thing updated more with lots of projects!

Oh and be sure to check the Prima blog today for some big news! And a peek at our new mid release-gorgeous swirls!

http://prima.typepad.com/

Have a great day!

xoxo Cari

Leaving for North Carolina...

2010-05-11T21:18:00.002-04:00

Hey friends!
I fly down to North Carolina tomorrow for the Donna Downey Inspired Event and I am almost ready to go! My kits were packed and shipped last week, I've taken care of all the last minute details and I am so excited to be going! It's kept me so busy the last month or so. I can't wait to see this whole event in action. And Sharon is going with me to help with the classes. I love seeing her and spending time with her. The whole experience will be well worth all the hard work it took to get ready for it.
I wanted to share my latest creation-this funky Lollipop apron you see below. I have been hoarding my Prima Lollipop flowers for some time and I thought it was time to use them up. I took them apart and mixed them up to create some funky flowers. I added some pebbles to some of the centers too.

I painted the main part with Aqua Acrylic paint, added Lettuce to the bottom ruffle and lathered some "Be positive" Glimmer Glam on the sash. (I was lucky enough to snag a bottle from CHA-hehe)

I originally thought of making a border across the bottom but it didn't look quite right to me. So instead-I have them cascading down the front in no particular order...

This is Jack's good friend Maddie modeling it for me. I had a hard time photographing it without it being shown this way and she sweet enough to help me out. Love this girl!
I think I might wear this to the event over the weekend-what do you think?

And last but not least-my sweet boy Bryan had his First Communion this past weekend. It was a beautiful ceremony and I am so proud of him. He says he's a man now. Not too sure about that but it is a big step in his little life. And I LOVED having him all dressed up-I never get to see that-EVER! He's a photo of my two boys before we headed out....

So that's it for now! I plan to share some photos and stories when I get back.

Wish me luck!

xoxo Cari

More Tattered Angels and Prima!

2010-05-03T06:55:00.002-04:00

Hey friends!
Hope you all had a great weekend! It was a little crazy for us so it flew by too fast! Next weekend will be pretty much the same. It's that time of year with celebrations, plans and school is winding down. I am knee deep in kits for the Donna Downey Inspired event...I need to get them mailed today. So wish me luck on that-LOL!

Prima has continued their product swap with Tattered Angels and I wanted to share my large canvas bag I covered with Glimmer Mist! I used Cinder to color the background-it took about two to three coats to get the depth I was going for. But the strap has more of a washout look. I love the two tone look.

I let the Cinder layers dry completely and then covered it with Claudine Helmuth's Multi Medium to protect the surface and it will make it eay to spot clean if needed. Then I added Spring Rain mist-love this color! You can see the subtle blue shine over the Cinder. The light cathes it just right and it looks so cool.

I added Prima felt roses and felt stems from our De Vines line-I am loving these on all kinds of projects! Then of course I had to add the bling and velvet leaves.

Hope you like it-It came together better than I expected. A large surface can be intimidating to work with especialy with a lot of color. I am here to tell you-just go for it. You'll be so happy when it's done and you will have a fabulous bag for your SLR or video cameras...totally unique!

Be back soon with more news and projects!

Thanks friends..

xoxo Cari

Tattered Angels and Prima......

2010-04-16T06:38:00.002-04:00

Hi friends!!!
I have more to share with you! Prima did a product exchange with one of my very favorite companies-Tattered Angels! Yay!! I love love love their stuff so i was really excited about this!

I made a couple projects using their amazing products-Glimmer Screens, Bingo and Calling cards, and of course-Glimmer Mist.
For this layout-I used the glimmer screen from the Blossom set on the background with Vintage Pink glimmer mist. I applied two good coats for a deeper color and contrast. I stitched around the edge and began building the center starting with a flocked transparency from Prima. I cut out part of the design and used it as a border on the side. I sprayed this with Walnut Gold GM. I cut off the edges of the cards and embossed with fine gold powder. I simply ran the Distress Emboss Ink pad along the edges, dredged in powder and heat set. Love the results!

I added Olive Vine GM to the De Vine Felt so that it sparkled too! And the small calling card is sprayed with a hefty dose of Crushed Shells GM. The Innoscence flowers were sprayed with Walnut Gold GM and so was my photo-just a light misting.

Here is a before and after photo of the background paper....

Some close-ups so you can see the embossed edges and other details......

I used Prima's velvet rose leaves, Caravan flowers, Fairytale roses and and Amaruse flower as well as bling swirls.

Love that calling card and the owl peeking out....

And this is a card I made using some of Prima's stamps. The stamps came from the Butterfly set. The sentiment is Hero Arts. I used Antique Brass over the whole face of the card. I LOVE how it looks on the chocolate cardstock--so rich! I hand cut some leaves from Prima packaging, E-Line pearls were added to the flower centers and a bit of storybook paper in the back.

Head on over to the Prima blog to see what some of the Design Team members did with Tattered Angels products.....
http://prima.typepad.com/

I'll be back soon with more projects!!

Have a great day!

xoxo Cari

Prima and Clip It Up!

2010-04-13T06:21:00.003-04:00

Hello Friends!!
I hope everyone had a great weekend! I was busy teaching a big card event for my LSS--we had a blast! It was good to see everyone. Can't wait for the fall event..

I have another project to share with you--I was presented with the challenge to alter a Jumbo Clip It Up!-and I said-"Bring It!" It was intimidating at first, I had no idea how I was going to pull it off. I decided to paint it pink and then went from there.

Below-you can see how I displayed some of my Prima goodies including 12 x 12 paper--love that!
And you can also see an original photo of how it looked before painting it just to get an idea of the drastic transformation.

I started by painting my CIU and I used Krylon's Indoor/Outdoor spray paint in watermelon. Cover the silver ring with tape while giving every other surface a good three coats. This paint dries quickly, but leave at least 24 hours after your last coat to start decorating. (use a well-ventilated area for painting.)

Then I began adding Prima goodies-De Vines, Flowers, Pearl Swirls, Leaves and a butterfly. You can add a much or as little as you want. I decorated the base first.

I added more to the top along with some bows. Great place to use leftovers...

Here-I wanted to show you how you can display your projects. The clips are strong enough to hold mini books--how cool is that? I always have trouble properly displaying my projects and this is a great solution!

Now for the really good part---would like the chance to win a Mini Clip It Up??

Here are the details:

For your chance to win the mini CIU (and give-away details) simply head over to Simply Renee's blog and leave a comment. How easy is that? Good Luck!!

Be back soon!

xoxo Cari

Here I am!

2010-04-09T08:59:00.004-04:00

Hey hey!!
Sorry I have been away from my blog for so long...things have been crazy and I don't see it slowing down anytime soon. But it's all good! Germany was so amazing--I met so many sweet girls and I'll post more about that soon with pics! I have a card event I am preparing for tomorrow and I am down to the wire on that. It'll be nice to see all the girls tomorrow!

As you may know-I have a new job working for Prima and I love it! I am working on Live With Prima-live video classes that have been a huge hit! All classes have a project from start to fnish, made especially for the shows packed with techniques and tips. The Instructors have been amazing to work with-Marion, Julie and Donna. If you want to see what it's all about, check it out here: http://livewithprima.com We have kits available for every project made and a calendar of upcoming classes....it's really cool-go check it out!

May is going to be extremely busy! I have Bryan's First Communion coming up so we have been getting ready for that. I am going to be teaching for Prima at Donna Downey's Inspired Event-I can't wait! But I have lots to prep before going-not quite ready yet! Here is a link if you want to see what it's all about: http://donnadowney.com/index.php/inspired-artists-workshops

And then I am going to be teaching at Buffalo Stamps and Stuff on May 20th plus make and takes for CKC Buffalo during the show Friday and Saturday. http://buffalostamps.webs.com/newsletter.htm
All my girls will be there-it will be an amazing weekend!
And Tim Holtz is coming to her store---she is beyond excited! Check out her site for details.

OK-so onto other things-Prima is doing an exchange with Couture Cardstock!! Their stuff is amazing-I am hooked on their cardstock-it's heavy weight, has gorgeous texture, takes stamped images with ease and they offer a huge assortment of colors and styles.
Check out their site here:
http://www.couturecardstock.com/
and you may want to check out their blog too-they have some amazing samples from their design team using Prima and Couture Cardstock--http://www.couturecardstock.com/blog/
AND-Prima has it featured as well! Leave a comment on the Prima blog for a chance to win an amazing giveaway!! http://prima.typepad.com/ Good luck to you!!!

Here are some cards I created using their devine products:
The first card is made with a textured cardstock--I am in love with it! It looks like linen and adds subtle detail to the card. And notice how well it took the stamped sentiment--perfection!

This second card-I used the textured cardstock again for my label and sentiment as well as the card base. Then added my flowers and goodies too. The flowers are Tea Roses, Pearl Penache, Cameo Roses, De Vine felt and velvet leaves.

And this last one-I ran through the Cuttlebug with my dot emboss folder. No crackling or distortion occured after running it through--love that!

I also used it in punches-perfect! I layered the circles and placed my sentiment in the center.

Tied a big fat ribbon aropund the waist and added some fun Sprites with a pearl.

Thanks for checking in! Hope you like the cards and I'll be back with photos from Germany and a few more projects I have been working on.

Have a fabulous weekend

xoxo CAri

Prima Flowers and Shimmerz....

2010-03-06T15:57:00.003-05:00

Hey everyone!!
I can't believe it's March already--I am so excited for Spring! The birds are back and March is going quickly--so all is good! I am getting ready to leave for Germany next week and I can't wait to go! Prima will be doing make and takes at a huge craft fair called Creativa. We are going to be making scrap layouts using our flowers and papers. And Love My Tapes is going to sponsor us with their amazing tape runners so I am all set to go--except packing. I have my eye on some new luggage but I have to convince Pete that I "need it". It's hard cover luggage in Black and White houndstooth--so cool! We'll see if I can get him to budge...hehe.

So here's the latest and greatest of what I have been up to...
http://shimmerzpaints.blogspot.com/
I guest designed for Shimmerz recently-they are so sweet and generous. And can I tell you-I loved painting flowers with their Blingz and Shimmerz-it is so sparkly, colorful and it dries super fast.
No warping of the flower shape at all. As a matter of fact-I did warp mine on purpose. Once you paint the flowers-you can push up the petals and they stay right where you want them-like a coating that allows you to move them even after it's dry. WOW!

Here is one of the cards I made for them-I sprayed with Vibez-Penny Pincher, stamped with blingz and painted with Shimmerz paints. I had a blast! I used Prima stamps for my images and cut them out, punched a corner using a scalloped square punch and added cool ribbon and a pearl center.

This is the layout I made for them too... I colored the background with various Vibez colors-streaking and blending it as I went using my finger. I dries so super fast and leaves amazing sparkle. I painted more flowers, spritzed a canvas bird and added some more Prima goodies.

I highly recommend you check out their blog and website-they have an amazing team of designers, how to videos and more. There is always so much eye candy on the blog and cool ideas too.
You can also see their entire line up of products and colors--I want it all! It's so fun to use!

On to other things---Prima has launched a new website called "Live With Prima". We are featuring 3 amazing instructors-Marion Smith, Donna Downey and Julie Fei Fan Balzer. Thier projects are amazing and their styles are unique to each one of them.
AND-you can chat live during the video classes! Ask questions, chat with other viewers and everyone present has a chance to win some Prizes courtesy of Prima. So far-it's been a huge hit-it's so fun!
Here is the link to the site. It will have all info about classes, the instructors, and -----
you can purchase the kits the girls are using! Ahead of time too! So you can work on projects right along with the Instructors! Some kits are up on the site for sale, but not all yet. We will be updating that this week.
All you need to do is sign up for a free account on Ustream.com with a login and password. Search Prima flowers on the site and you will be able to see the classes we have already aired to get a feel for what it's about.

Julie is going to do a class live on Monday at 11:00am est. Her class will be all techniques and tricks! I can't wait to see what she does!
Here is the link: http://www.livewithprima.com/
and go here to see what Julie is making: http://prima.typepad.com/

The site is brand new so we will be working on it to make it even better over the next week or so...

So that's what has been going on! I have been really really busy with it all!
I'll be back soon with more projects from Prima!
Thanks for stopping by!
xoxo Cari

So much going on!!

2010-02-19T08:05:00.003-05:00

Hey friends!!
I have so much going on right now-I have been crazy busy! But it's been all good stuff!
This is what I have going on...
I have been asked to guest design for Shimmerz and I have am having so much fun playing with their productz!! The Shimmerz and the Blingz are amazing to work with-I have been painting flowers like crazy-I just love the results. The Vibez are so cool--amazing sprays that go on beautifully and dry perfectly on papers. And the Spritz adds a subtle sparkle with a touch of color-amazing! If you can get your hands on any of this stuff-do it and have fun playing!

Here is a little sneak peek of one of the projects I made for them. This has to be one of my favorite cards to date...
I will share it all once we go live on the Shimmerz blog. I will let you know when it's posted. In the meantime-you should go over and see the beautiful creations their team has created. There are also education videos showing many different techniques and ways to use Shimmerz goodies!
Here is the link:
http://shimmerzpaints.blogspot.com/

Annnnddd...I am going to be teaching at the Donna Downey Inspired Event May 13-15th in North Carolina! YAY! I have a few mini workshops I'll be teaching there and this is one of them. It's a Donna Downey Camera Bag from Prima. It came out so stinkin cute-I love it and i can't wait to teach it! I'll share more on that soon.
Here is the link to find out more about this amazing Retreat Donna has put together:
http://www.donnadowney.com/index.php/inspired-artists-workshops

So that's it for now. I need to get back to work to wrap up all of projects and get myself caught up.
Thanks for stopping by!
xoxo Cari

Ranger and Prima...Match Made In Heaven!

2010-02-12T06:14:00.005-05:00

Hello friends!
Today-I am featuring a couple of projects I created using Prima and some Fabulous Ranger products. And we are doing a little blog hop with some of the Prima Design Team Members, Prima and Tim Holtz! How fun! Be sure to check out what the other girls have made-everything is gorgeous!

I created this Tin for the Donna Downey Inspire workshop. This is going to be one of my Mini Worshops I'll be teaching in May. I used a Prima Tin and painted it with Adirondack Sandal Paint, Vintage Photo Distress Ink and Rock Candy Distress Crackle Paint. Then I embellished with some Prima goodies-Canvas Dress Form, Pearls, Gems, Felt Stem, New Pastiche Paper and Flowers. This tin can be used as a traveling container for your Ranger tools, Stamps, Prima supplies and more... It can also be used for Home Decor...the sky is the limit!
And this project has to be one of my favorites to date! This is a Valentine Mail Box. I used Prima's 8 x 8 Canvas Album and added paper to the sides to create the box. I spritzed with water using my Mini Mister and added ink to the cover. Then I inked a new Donna Downey Flower stamp with Lipstick, Fire Brick, Mahagony and Peeled Paint Distress Inks and stamped onto the surface. Then I used the Mini Mister again to spritz water over the image for a watercolor look. Careful not to spritz too much-it will distort your image if over saturated. I dry brushed Lettuce Adirondack Acrylic Paint on the other side. I applied Shell Pink alcohol ink onto the Prima Chipboard letters using my Alcohol pen--this worked great to get in all the nooks. Then inked the letters with Vintage Photo Distress Ink and applied Rock Candy Distress Crackle paint as my final coating. I adhered my letters over the painted area using Farbi-Tac. I added some of Tim's metal flower charms to the flower centers too.

The "lid" is a piece of Prima's packaging. I gessoed, and painted it using Claudine Helmuth's wonderful products. Her paints are so creamy! I nked the surface with Vintage Photo, and then painted on the Rock Candy Crackle. It looks like leather..I love the result! I added Prima's E-Line pearls along the top-mixing and matching as I went.

The sides are a patterned paper from Prima's new Shabby Chic Line-a gorgeous script pattern, inked and scored to resemble the side of a bag.

I plan to put my Family's Valentines Day cards and goodies in this mailbox. I think they'll love it. And until then-it makes for a very nice V-Day decoration in my home....

Here are the links to the other blogs. Have a great time viewing all of the cool projects along the way!

Ingvild-http://www.spinnvild.com/

Tim Holtz-http://www.timholtz.typepad.com/

Jaime Warren-http://jaimewarren.typepad.com/

Janine Koczwara-http://www.janinekoczwara.typepad.com/

Nic Howard-http://nichoward.typepad.com/

Julie Fei Fan Balzer-http://www.balzerdesigns.typepad.com/

Christiane-http://www.schulu.blogspot.com/

Joei-http://joeiintokyo.blogspot.com/

Iris-http://www.irisbabaouy.typepad.com/
Prima-http://prima.typepad.com/
Malin D-http://slosa.blogspot.com/

Have a great day! I'll be back soon!

Hello friends!

2010-02-03T06:28:00.003-05:00

I just returned from CHA on Friday morning. It was a long and lovely 8 days in California. The Prima booth was gorgeous and I had so much fun seeing all of my Prima friends-they are hilarious! Love them all! Sharon and I roomed together (of course)-I love spending tons of time with her. I also got to see some of my other amazing friends-Lucy E, Annabel, Susan, Julie (for about two seconds), Shemaine, Sharon and Mark, Elizabeth, and more..It was so nice to see everyone! I hope I am not forgeting anybody...
Prima was a hit as usual-the customers were amazed at the new product they came out with and they loved the amazing samples the DT put together. They rocked it!

I was exhausted and my family missed me-so we had a family weekend when i got back. It is good to be home....
I jumped right back into work mode-I made a video for Prima and hopefully I can share that in a few days once it's complete. I have a list of other projects I need to get done this week.

And I got an exciting e-mail from the sweet Jeni B.-she asked if I would guest design for Shimmerz this month!! YAY! I am so excited and honored to be asked--I can't wait to play with their amazing products-the Blingz, Vibez, Spritz and of course the Shimmerz. The have such an amazing assortment of colors to choose from! I'll share with you once it's up on their blog!

In the meantime-I'll share more of my creations I made for the Prima booth using their new flowers and papers. I did make a couple of mini canvas books but no photos yet. I made them the day before I left for California and didn't have the chance to take pics. And right now they are enroute to Canada for their big Expo. I'll share as soon as they return home...

For this layout-I used the new Strawberry Kisses papers, Cancan flowers, Jeweled Alphas, Madrigals, Belle Art roses and chipboard tags. Lots of layering, distressed paper edges and inked too. I just love my Vintage Photo Distress Ink.
Here are the two crowns I made for the booth. The first-I went wild with the flowers, bling, leaves and more. This was so fun to create. It truly is fit for a queen. A ton of customers had their photo taken with it on.

And then I made this one on the simple side (compared to the other). I used glass glitter, Canvas Fleur D Li by Donna Downey and covered that in glitter too, new Shabby Chic Prima paper, Belle Art Rose, Zazi and new white flowers sprayed with Glimmer Mist---Walnut Gold of course!

That's all for today! I will return soon with more goodies to share. Hope you all have a fabulous week!

xoxo Cari

New Prima Layouts!

2010-01-06T20:11:00.004-05:00

Hey friends!
Hope everyone is having a good week. It has been a busy one for me but everything is great.
Prima has started launching their sneaks peeks everyday and I must say-you are going to love it! I really think there is something for everyone-every style, every taste and more flowers than you ever realized you needed. And if this means you need to get your stash used up before you get more-then do it!
I use a whole package on every page, but that's how i roll...:) It definitely helps you use up your supplies to make room for new.

So I wanted to share a couple of my new layouts using the new stuff.
I am having a blast with it all. And just so you know-I made a crown last week...and i am dying to share that too but i have to wait just a little longer....

This layout was made using the Strawberry Kisses paper line. I am in love with the color combination and the designs are so vinatge. I used some new pearl swirls with the roses, butterflies, burlap flowers and more....like I said---the whole stinkin package!!

Here is the second one using the new Shabby Chic paper lines and an array of flower goodness.
Cass was a great sport-she let me take as many pics as I needed (unlike the boys who have become extremely impatient in that area).

So that's all I can share for now but it's a nice start! There will be lots more soon!!

Oh and by the way-head on over to the Prima blog-they are having a flower giveaway -all you have to do is comment on it and you could be chosen!

Go here and you have until Friday!!!!

http://prima.typepad.com/prima/2010/01/wednesdays-peeks/comments/page/9/#comments

xoxo Cari

New projects!

2010-01-03T10:30:00.004-05:00

Hello friends!
Phew...the holidays are over and the boys return to school tomorrow, and I need to dismantle Christmas in my home. It was a whirlwind of a month in December but it was fabulous. I really hope you all had a nice time too. I went to NYC with Sherry to visit my brother-we had a blast but it went way too fast. I didn't get to see a couple of people I had planned to meet up with-sorry Julie:(
But I plan to go down again soon. I had cookie exchange and party with great friends, my FIL came to visit which was so nice and then Matt came home for Christmas. We did a secret santa exchange and breakfast at work-loved it! The kids had a great time-they loved their gifts and they loved having family here too.

We managed to do Christmas without using a single credit card!! That is a major accomplishment and no surprise bills in January. Plus-I don't want to give any more of my money to those greedy credit companies. There are seriously robbing people with outrageous finance charges and putting everyone in horrible positions.

Anyway......
It's snowing here like crazy... I love these days when I have no where to go and I can stay in sweats all day. And of course update my blog a little bit. I have a couple of projects to share.
This mini book will hopefully make an appearance on BG today-just waiting for the admin to post a thread so i can get it up for the girls. This was the November 2008 project kit that I purchased from Wendy last year. I had to have it! The fabrics, vintage finds, all of it was too good to pass up! I created a mini book and i just love how it turned out! Can't wait to share more with everyone. I'll give a hollar when it's posted...

And this little house book came together like nothing else I've made. I knew what I wanted to do in my head but I never expected it to come together so nicely. Prima featured it on their blog and then Donna Downey decided to feature it too....very cool! I appreciate that so much!
And of course I had to post it on my own blog as well.

I used two canvas houses for the covers. They come already stitched and ready to use for whatever you like. I made the pages inside from Prima packaging (remember the kraft packaging?) I decorated it with canvas tabs, tags and buttons, Prima roses, paper leaves, pearl centers, lace and more! Oh and i also sprayed it with Walnut Gold glimmer mist to give it an aged look--love that stuff!

AAAAnnndddd...I got my CHA box from Prima!!! They have out done themselves again! Hard to believe they can keep coming out with better stuff. Every release is more amazing than the last. They will start showing sneak peeks on their blog January 4th so be sure to keep checking back to see what they made. Here is the link:

http://prima.typepad.com/

I can't share until they give me the OK, but I promise to post layouts and projects I've made using all of the new goodies when they give me the green light!!!

Thats all for today! Enjoy your Sunday, relax, create and leave the house work for tomorrow..

xoxox CAri

Lots of stuff to talk about...

2009-11-30T13:49:00.003-05:00

Hello friends!!
We had a great Thanksgiving in the Fennell household! My brother, my Mom and us-perfect! It was relaxing, fun and so nice to see my brother. We miss him terribly and the boys can't get enough of their uncle. I am going to NYC next weekend to pay him a visit with Sherry. I haven't been to the big city in a while, so this trip is long overdue. We are taking off right after i get out of work on Friday. I am driving down.

I am also going to be at CHA with Prima! YAY! I love going to Anaheim and seeing all of my Prima buddies. I really miss them! I look forward to every aspect of it. It never gets old for some reason...and i think it's because of the company i keep. They have truly become some of my dearest friends.

I've got a cute little Christmas ensemble I put together last week. It's a little house from Maya Road that has a cute little chipboard book inside. I covered the house with Cosmo papers and the roof with Vintage Christmas paper. Then the roof is covered in clear glitter as well as the door.

The little book was made into a display with cute cut outs, rosettes, Cosmo papers, and glittered letters. Very simple to make and it looks so sweet on my mantle!

I really need to get more projects up soon for everyone! i plan to make several more projects for the holidays including a couple of mini books. I'll post them as soon as I get them done!

Hope you all have a great week! And try not to stress about the holidays too much....

xoxo Cari

November is here!!!

2009-11-02T18:26:00.003-05:00

Is it really November already? I can't believe how fast October flew by, I barely had time to get ready for Halloween. Last week was a whirlwind of chaos-decorate for Halloween, buy costumes, work, Jack had the flu, buy pumpkins, run errands, scrap for Prima and visit baby Gwyn at the hospital with Nic. Jack is fine now and I am ever so thankful that he is. Gwyn is holding her own but with difficulty--I just want her to get better so she can go home with Nic and Jim and the boys. I crashed on Sunday afternoon. I took a huge nap and went to bed at normal time. I am just glad the week is over and it is time to start fresh--a new week and a new month and New Moon! hehe

We have our tickets to go see the midnight premiere and I CAN NOT WAIT! I know-I am a dork! But we have big plans and I can't wait to put those plans into action! I need a girl's night out and I need it now!

OK-so enough rambling about life...
I wanted to share my Bad Girls Bleuprint with you. I hope it inspires you to get out your scrap stuff and your mojo-can't forget the mojo--and create. This is all about vintage. Vintage finds, vintage looks, vintage memories--anything. And because it's open to interpretation-you can make it your own vintage. My layout is brightly colored, not aged like you would expect. It's about my Grandmother's vintage garden with Lilacs. Love them! i planted them in my own garden because of her.
So keep an open mind when creating and see what comes about. It may surprise you....

Create something gorgeous and have fun!

Be back soon!

xoxox

It's almost Halloween!

2009-10-28T08:25:00.005-04:00

Hello friends!!!
I am getting so excited-Halloween is almost here! I got busy the other night and whipped up some cards and a project. And my decorations are up, Bryan has a costume but Jack does not. We plan on hitting the store soon--he is so indecisive! It drives me insane. Bryan had his costume picked out and we were out the door in 15 minutes. Jack will take at least an hour at all the stores we go to-- If we make it to the stores.....

Jack is really sick right now. I think he has the flu. They don't test anymore so we can't be certain but we are treating it like the flu. He hasn't been feeling well for a week now. We went in for a well visit last week and of course, now he is the opposite of well.
I am right on top of it, keeping him comfortable. I am hoping to see the light at the end of the tunnel anytime now.....but who knows how long it could last...sigh.

Anyway.....
Here is a sweet little banner I made. I cut out some triangles and covered them with Prima patterned paper. Then, glued down some Frillies, punched out circles and placed them over the flowers. I added the letters and some fun crystal bats around them. I took some centers and adhered them to black cardstock, cut around them and hung them froom the bottom of the penants with wired swirls. I placed black gems along the top with punched out scalloped borders. I tied them together with sparkly ribbon and touile. This looks way cuter in person! But I hope you like it anyway!

I can not lie-this is a card I made last year...lol. But it's really cute and super easy to make. I layered patterned paper piece over the card base. Tied some touile around it and added gems along the paper border. I punched out some circles, stamped a green Madeira image in the center and finished it off with a little bat die cut. Then stamped the sentiment in the lower corner.

And this is a pocket card I made from Prima diecut paper. I used a huge punch for the circle and placed a crystal witch in the center. Then I tied a ribbon around the card, attached a little tag with a small saftey pin and sprayed the whole card with Glacier Glimmer Mist.

That's all for now. I may get some more projects done as Jack rests and if I do-I promise to share! Hope everyone is safe and healthy........and up to no good! haha!

Be back soon! xoxxo CAri

Just returned...and random stuff

2009-10-07T21:30:00.003-04:00

Hey friends!
Sorry it's been awhile since I've posted. I just returned from Houston where I worked a retailer show for Prima. Sharon and I had a great time as always-I just adore her! And I met so many fun loving wonderful store owners! I also got to harass Tim even though i wasn't in any of his classes (which he was relieved to hear-LOL!) But I soon made up for that when our make and take table was right next to his-hehe! So-it's good to be home and I need to get back into the swing of things scrap wise. I have so much to do in the next couple of weeks.

AND-I read Twilight over the weekend while i traveled-HELLO! I have been missing out and now I can't wait to get my hands on the next book! Now I know why everyone has been going crazy over the series-I am crazy over it now too! I need to hurry and read New Moon before the movie comes out so i can go with my girls to see it. So now i am officially in love with Edward and there is no turning back-haha!

OK-on to other business besides my new obsession! I have signed on for another term with Bad Girls! And Wendy has so much planned in the coming months but I can't spill yet......
Her kits this month are nothing short of amazing and I had to share them with you--I think you'll love them too! She even came out with a Halloween kit--be still my heart! I love Halloween and this kit is all that! Take a peek!

Attic Treasures-amazing mix of papers, vintage goodies and more! What a perfect kit to dive into after the kiddos go to bed!

And this kit-Windswept Whispers---you could get lost in a fantasy land and never want to go back! Truly amazing mix of vintage papers, bling, gorgeous flowers and all that is left to add is your creativity. Yum!

Last month-I submitted this Bleuprint on Bad Girls and my take on it. I had so much fun with the goodies from Prima and playing around with my photos. I love to layer and this layout was no exception! I hope you give this a try and have fun with it!

Oh and one more thing I wanted to share! At the show in Houston-we had a make and take frenzy going on for the retailers and I thought you might like to see what we did. It's a little clutch, ready to use for just about anything! I folded a Canvas refill page from the Donna Downey collection in half, securing the sides with Fabric Tac. Then i embellished with our e-line crystals and pearls, and finished it with a ribbon. Too cute-right? Someone there also mentioned this would be great to put silverware in with a napkin and place it onto a table setting. How cute for a luncheon or a holiday dinner! It was so easy to make-it takes no time to make a bunch. And there are so many ways to decorate it-stamping, painting, flowers--you name it!

So, that's all i have for now! I plan to share a few more things soon-I promise! No more blog neglect!

Have a good one!

xoxo Cari

Been sooo busy!

2009-09-10T14:47:00.003-04:00

Hello all!
I think i have neglected my blog long enough...don't ya think? I started a new job yesterday!
I am now working in Bryan's school as an aide for the first grade team. So far-I love it! And it's only part time which is great since I still have household duties to do as well. And don't get me wrong--I am not one of those Moms that needs to be in the same building checking up on Bry all the time. It just so happened that they had an opening. The High School is bummed since they really wanted me to work there but they had no openings at all. I will miss the sweet sassy teens I got to know last year. I saw Bry today when he came in for lunch as we were walking out to the playground. To his horror-I tried to kiss him real quick on the cheek. He put out his arms as stiff as he could and backed into the wall--haha!! So i guess I won't try that anymore...LOL!

I have also been really busy with projects and here is one I hope will inspire. Sometimes it's nice to take a break from layouts and create projects instead. I created this one and took it to CHA for display.
It's a book purse! I took all of the pages from some boring book Pete had on the shelf that he never read and just used the cover. He'll never know it's gone and besides- I would never think of using one of my books. I lined it inside and out. I used Prima packaging as the sides and covered the seams with trim. The front is decorated with a felt branch, gallery roses, leaves and a bird. The I lightly sprayed the entire outside with Walnut Gold Glimmer Mist for an aged, sparkly look. I punched holes at the top and added ribbon as my handles.

I plan to use it to go out to dinner with the girls some night soon!

So thats it for today! i hope this inspired you to go out and make something beautiful for yourselves!

I promise to be back soon with more fun projects!

Have a great day!

xoxo Cari

Some Prima LO's!

2009-08-13T10:29:00.004-04:00

Hey!!
Well-I am somewhat settled and getting back into our daily routine. There have been kids here everyday, running in and out-driving me crazy! Popsicle wrappers are everywhere, toys strewn across the yard and bikes have been abandoned in the driveway for me to run over with the car.Yes-things are back to normal. I need to start working on projects, finishing projects and putting some away. But in the meantime, I don't want my blog to go unloved. I wanted to share some more LO's from CHA that I haven't posted yet. At least i don't think I've posted anyway--;)

Paradise City is my absolute fave from the show. I just love the designs and colors. There is truly nothing like it out there...anywhere.
And seeing the DT's LO's in person at CHA was such a treat-they rocked it. Loading them up into galleries and posting online does not do them justice in anyway, shape or form.

These LO's are also in the Prima catalog. I was so fortunate to have them featured in there!!

Here is Bryan running down the beach-loving the freedom!

This LO was created using the Tropics paper line. And of course I loaded it with flowers-maybe too many, but I had fun none the less.

And yes-I've used these photos a million times in the past month or so-but I had to use them here. I think it's time to take more pics of them.

So that's it for now. I will have more goodness to share soon. Enjoy the remaining days of summer---I know I am----in a popsicle wrapper sort of way-LOL!

xoxo Cari

I'm back!!

2009-08-08T20:39:00.003-04:00

Hey friends!!!
I've been gone for two weeks-first week at CHA and the second in Cape Cod for a family vacation..and now I am finally home! What a whirlwind it's been! I had a great time getting together with my friends at Prima. I swear-I laugh the whole time I am with them. It was a much smaller group of us this year but we got the job done!! Tami sent me these photos from the booth--thanks girl! I can't wait to see them all again! In the top photo-top row-Donny, Sharon, me, Denny and Adam. Bottom row-Domonique, Siri, Trisca and Diego.

I love being at CHA-it is so amazing to see all of the scrap goodies the manufacturers come out with. I was kicked out of several booths for drooling all over everything. How can they blame me? I was so lucky to meet Niki Sivils, Susan Dupre, Annabelle O'Malley, Lucy Edson, Gayle, Patti Hamil and more! And i got to see some familiar friends-Julie and Kim, Vicki B, Cath Edvalson, Liz and James Hicks and many more sweet girls from all over the world!

The Cape was amazing as always...I just can't get enough of the ocean. I hate leaving when it's time to go. Jack cried as we pulled out of the parking lot to leave. I know he'll have great memories of this vacation.

I promise to post more goodies tomorrow. I am just getting caught up and I feel like I've been on the computer all day. I joined Scrapbook.com today-if you are over there-find me and friend me. I am on there as Cari F

Be back soon!

xoxo Cari

Happy Birthday Bad Girls!!!!

2009-07-24T07:56:00.001-04:00

Come celebrate with us and check out our Birthday Bash going on here:
http://wendyrago.typepad.com/bad_girls/

Before I go....

2009-07-24T07:35:00.003-04:00

Hello friends!
I am leaving today for CHA and I'll be gone for a week. I can't wait to see all of my dear friends from Prima--I just love spending time with them at the shows! We have an amazing release that I can't wait to see in person. I hope that if any of my online friends are attending-you will stop by and say "Hi"! I love meeting everyone IRL!

I have some layouts to share before I go. This LO I have as a Bleuprint sketch over at Bad Girls, called "How does your garden grow?
check it out here: http://badgirlskits.com/mb/viewtopic.php?f=116&t=8820
I used the new paper line from Prima called Paradise City--amazing colors and patterns to work with. Vintage yet modern. So cool!

This is the same paper line from Prima. I framed in a photo of Bryan running down the beach-I just love that photo. I added lots of pearls and some gorgeous new flowers and leaves. The back is an embossed transparency they released at the last show.

And then I featured Kate and Bry using packaging for photo mats, and gorgeous new fabric flowers and pearl swirls. Oh..and a new birdie too.

BAD GIRLS NEWS!!! It's Bad Girl's Birthday and we are celebrating in style! Go directly to the Bad Girls blog for details on how you can win $150.00 in prizes...gasp!

Go here for the details:

http://wendyrago.typepad.com/bad_girls/

It's easy, fun and exciting! Wendy always knows how to celebrate in style!

That's all for now friends!

I'll check in soon!

xoxo Cari

Busy busy!!!

2009-07-14T10:17:00.003-04:00

Hey friends!!

Hope you're enjoying your summer....I am! But it has been so busy with projects, classes, and getting ready for CHA! I have some LO's ready for the Prima booth and I'll be able to share them with you before I go. I just have to wait for Prima to post them on their blog before I can put them out there. It's so hard to wait and not share all at once.

Their new lines have to be some of my very favorite to date! Adrienne, my sweet friend, has come out with some of the coolest paper lines I have ever seen! So different and so rockin! IOD came out with a gorgeous new line that is so soft, magical and in a color combo that will push everyone outside of their comfort zone--which to me--is so exciting! And the flowers......let's just say-they are gorgeous, fun and so different from anything out there. I don't know how they keep coming up with amazing products every time....but they do! The list goes on and on, but you can see everything for yourselves over at the Prima blog. Too much to mention and I think you'd rather see everything instead of me rambling on about every little thing.....LOL!

Here is another LO I can share! Miss Frankie-the adorable little baby that steals my heart! Holly is so lucky to have such a sweet baby! My dear frined Nic took this photo of her during one of their sessions. Nic-you are becoming quite the photographer!! And thanks for letting me use this pic! MMMwwwaahh! The new paper line is Animal Bash by Adrienne Looman for Prima. I just adore the hand drawn animals and squiggles as well as the colors---LOVE it!

I used a ton of flowers as usual, hand cut out some little animal images to tuck in here and there, alcohol inked the letters to match and layered.....

Hope you like it!

On another note-This is the OA mini i am teaching tonight at my LSS. The mini was a labor of love. Can you say...a ton of pages?? Hope everyone likes it!!

And, last but certainly not least, my sweet friend Jeni B. is teaching a fab class over at Bad Girls! Lots of ideas and how too's using felt! I love that stuff! She is too cute and her classes rock! I think you'll have a blast creating once you take this class.

Here are the details::

Swaynk©

Online Class taught by Jeni Boisvert

July 14th - 16th$

24.95 - Click here to purchase

This technique based class with open your eyes to all the treasures hidden inside your current scrap stash. Together we will transform felt, ribbon, and fabric into adorable accessories and unique embellishments that will be perfect for any outfit or project! We will use found items around your home as well as find new uses for old "doo dads" in the back of your embellishment drawer. No previous sewing skills are necessary to create your one of a kind Swaynk©. If I can make these, anyone can make these. This will be a three part class full of fun and different techniques that you will be able to use to futher enchance your all around artistic skills. I will demonstrate many different looks that you will be able to achieve as well as explore different uses for your Swaynk©. Techniques will be shown by video as well as step by step photographs. Just a few of the items we will make together are page embellishments, rings, bracelets, headbands, ponytail holders, gift toppers, and to bring a little Christmas to July we will also be decorating a Christmas tree! I am so excited to teach this class and can't wait to start making Sywank© with you!

That's it for today! I'll be back soon with more projects and stuff to share!

Have an amaziing day!

xoxo Cari

Prima sneak....

2009-07-10T08:12:00.003-04:00

Hey friends!
CHA is approaching fast and I am so excited to see my friends from Prima-love them!
I have been so busy creating projects using their new gorgeous stuff-I think it will knock your socks off! I never seem to get tired of flowers, they add so much to my pages....The dimension is what does it for me I think. Well-I just pour it on, that's how i roll-LOL! Gaudy as ever and I can't stop. I tried to use every single thing they sent me. I still have more to do!

Here is one of the LO's I made recently and it looks familiar-right? A LO about my blog! I used Adrienne Looman's new line -Paradise City, New Butterflies (swoon), Pearl Vines, Fairy Ring and roses. Then I added Walnut Gold Glimmer Mist to the whole thing-concentrating on the letters. I let it pool up on the chipboard letters and dried it that way. I love the result!
I can't wait to share more soon-it's killing me to keep them under wraps!

And i have a dumpster diving story to share in the near future. I can't go into details right now because a certain someone reads this blog and she can't know until after her surprise. It's an adventure that caused Sherry to break pieces off of a Rescue Mission crate....Ken is in serious trouble right now :) LOL!
be back soon!
xoxo Cari

Stuff!

2009-07-08T08:17:00.004-04:00

Hey friends!!
I hope everyone had a great weekend! We had a fabulous time at the lake-it was so nice to see the family and spend time with the kiddos! I have some great pics I'll share with you later....

I wanted to say a big Thank You to some of my friends that commented on here about the Cosmo Cricket call---you guys know how to make my day! I am so lucky to have great friends from all over the world!

Needless to say-I didn't make the final cut but that's OK-I am still happy I got the chance to try.
And the finalists are all amazing! They have a tough decision to make! I am so happy for the girls who made it-especially Heidi and Amy! Good luck girlies!

I have been busy creating new LO's for Prima. Their new releases are amazing! Once I get the OK from them-I'll start sharing! They have been posting all of the new releases on the Prima blog--go check it out!
http://prima.typepad.com/

So in the meantime-I'll share some cards I made recently.
This card was made using the Rebel Line by Adrienne-she rocks! I also used some prima packaging and swirls.

Then I got out the burlap and made a few cards with it. I just love this stuff!
My good friend Joanne Smith has been creating her own stamps--they rock! I used a couple on these cards. I just love her sentiments and style. She gave me a couple more that I can't wait to use on some LO's. They are so cool!
Here is a link to her blog, which she seriously needs to update!!!! LOL! But if are interested in her stamps you can go there and e-mail her. http://joannessmith.blogspot.com/

This first card I used an A Muse sentiment but the other two are from Jo.

Like I said before-I'll be back with some new stuff to share....it's so hard not to!

xoxo Cari

A collection of my favorite projects, some new, some familiar

2009-06-30T20:56:00.004-04:00

Hello friends!!
I hope you are enjoying summer so far-I certainly am! I love having the boys home with no schedule-we are having a great time! I have a freezer full of popsicles, a huge supply of band-aids, a few bottles of sunscreen and a dirty tub...heehee! They are so dirty when they come in at night from running around in bare feet, playing games and remnants of food from whatever they ate that day. So the tub has taken a beating....LOL!

So-how do you like the new look of my blog? Pretty schnazzy-right? I learn more and more each time I mess around with it. Shabby Blogs is the best-just love their blog accessories-it was so easy! Which, I am all about easy these days.

Another bit of news-I am trying out for the Cosmo Cricket DT. I absolutely LOVE their products! I am very excited to try, even though there will be a ton of other amazingly talented designers trying and there are just a few spots...eeeek! I am just glad I found out about it before the deadline--somehow I've missed it every year. And I just found out about it yesterday! So that alone makes me very happy....They asked that you post your best work on your blog and forward it to them. Easy-no prob! But how do we know what our best is? I just decided that I would post some of my faves and I whipped up a couple of things with the new Early Bird papers they just released. I really tried to post a variety of projects using all kinds of different lines, layout sizes, minis and more.

This line from Cosmo Cricket is soooooo fun to work with. I just adore the bright colors mixed with a bit of shabbiness--these are some of my fave color combinations!

I was also able to squeeze out a little set of cards. Don't you just love the toaster and tea cup?

This is a set of cards I created for a stamp event this past spring. I love stamping-I need to do it more often!

This is a night light I created for a workshop for Bad Girls last fall. I used a box that my Prima flowers came in and went to town. Kate uses it now--she loves it!

This is a mini I recently made. I needed to get a new family mini going with updated photos. It turned out so sweet.

I just love this LO of Bry. He just goes and goes! I cut cardstock around the swirls-they really pop on the LO!

This is my layout I did for Pencil Lines last year. The sketch was so awesome and I decided to create and 8 1/2 x 11 from it. I did the same trick with the swirls.

This is a Paintable LO I made for Prima when the clears came out. I painted it with alcohol inks and backed it with Kraft paper. Isn't Josie's daugther so pretty?? This baby layout is a recent one I did for Prima. Lots of layering and sweetness going on here. This is one of my very faves to date!

We are in the tween years with Jack. This paper line was perfect for this age. I stamped a brick pattern a bunch of times onto black cardstock and embossed with silver powder. I cut then out into seperate rectangles and layered across the page.

This was too fun! Bry looks like such a tough guy on his ride. I layered strips of paper with the photos-I just love how it turned out!

Halloween is one of my fave times of the year-there is no wonder why I love this LO! I stamped, used felt embellishments and layered it all with flowers. I would never have thought I would use flowers on a Halloween LO but I did--and it works!

And last but not least-the happiest kid on the planet! Having a blast at the beach! The photo is slightly out of focus but I don't care--it still says it all!

So-that is it my friends! Do you think I chose enough?LOL!! All of these layouts are fun, bright, and they make me smile. I love them all for different reasons... Thanks for taking the tour with me!

I'll be back soon with more goodies and new projects I am working on...

See you soon!!

xoxo Cari

A work in progress...

2009-06-23T06:52:00.003-04:00

I am updating my blog and making it look a little prettier...
I'll be back soon with more pretties and cool stuff!!!!
Hope you are all busy creating gorgeous projects!
Be back soon!
xoxo Cari

Hey all!

2009-06-16T06:19:00.002-04:00

Whats all this you ask???

I wanted to pop in and share an amazing class going on over at Bad Girls!

Jen has created a class that shows you how to print photos onto...well-just about anything!

Aluminum Foil, Tags, Tapes and more! The results are beyond amazing and it's so cool to learn something new-right?

Even though the class was posted already-it will be available for a month so you can purchase the class and check it out at your own leasure. It's also posted in stages which is nice. You can take in a little bit at a time to play and practice as you go. Jen is there to answer any questions or concerns you may have.

Here is the info:

Alternative Photo Printing

Online Class taught by Jen Matott

June 15th -17th
$29.95

Class Description:Are you bored with regular photographs on photo paper? Do you long to add more texture and interest to your artwork and pages? This in depth class is for you! I will show you how to print photographs and images onto alternative surfaces. Basically, any surface that will fit through your printer is free game! I will walk you through from simple photo editing to getting the most effective image from your printer. Forget the traditional way of using photographs... this class will have you recycling materials, playing with digital techniques and using media in a whole NEW way!!! I will share my secrets to printing on ribbon, metal, transparencies, and even sandpaper! You will not find this class anywhere else except on Bad Girls! Join me for a fun and addictive technique class!

Go here:
http://badgirlskits.com/classes.html

You will also see a new class posted by Jeni Boisvert

Photoshop Color Pop

Amazing things you can do with the program!!! I totally need this class!

She is so talented and I love that she is sharing it with us!

Photoshop Color Pop!

Online Class taught by Jeni Boisvert

June 25th - 27th$25.95

-Class Description:This super simple and fun hands on approach to Photoshop is a great starting point for beginners and intermediate users that want to bring their work to life! I will guide you along using Adobe Elements 7. I will share with you some tips and tricks that I use, as well as some of my "secrets" for getting custom color and having it do what you want it to do for the look and feel you are going for! Photoshop is as limitless as your imagination, and this class will open up a whole new world for you. You will learn Color Enhancements, as well as other looks for your photos such as Vintage, Color Splash, Color Wash, Black and White looks. We'll learn about blending modes and layers, as well as a cool trick for working with layer masks in elements that are otherwise only available in higher versions of Photoshop. We will also be making fun banners and blinkies! This Class includes a private forum as well as video instruction and a downloadable .pdf file. As a special bonus you will have access to some custom downloadable papers and brushes made exclusively for this class!

Hello!!!

2009-06-07T10:17:00.004-04:00

Hi friends!
Hope everyone is enjoying the weather and the last weeks of school are here.Our kids are still in school all the way until June25th-can you believe it? Too long I think..I wish I had more time with my kiddos during summer break. sigh...And let me tell you-they are soooo ready to be done! And I am working everyday up until the last day--at the High School.

Big news at Bad Girls--they have totally changed the look of the site and the direction of the kits. Wendy has had to scale back a bit, her family was suffering for it and that just can't happen. Her kids need her and she wanted some freedom to spend time with them. She is such a wonderful Mom-I applaud her for taking a step back and making these changes despite the success of her kit club. I added a new gadget at the right-a new Bad Girls blinkie! Click on it and it will take you directly to the new site. It's gorgeous! And the kits are different too. They are chock full of scrap goodness and vintage finds. Her kits are going to be totally different than what you would find in an average kit. There will be elements in the kits that are from Antique shops, art mediums to play with and more! I am really excited to see what is in store for Bad Girls in the coming months!

I have been very busy creating some LO's but I can't share them yet--wish I could!
So-in the meatime, I'll share some oldies but goodies. This is a minibook I taught last summer using October Afternoon goodies....And a clear album from TI.
I just love their papers and embellishments! We had a lot of fun during the class too!
I am ready to make another with their new lines...

Thats all for today! Thanks so much for stopping by...I will be back soon!

I promise!

xoxo Cari

Has it been that long???

2009-05-19T06:45:00.003-04:00

Since I've posted here?? The past couple of weeks are a blur...

I have been working a ton, Jack was sick, one of my very best friends moved back here from Portland and I have been under the weather (I think I got what Jack had).

And we are headed to the lake for four days this weekend...

Here are some of the latest projects I've made.

I did a stamping challenge over at Bad Girls for NSD--I loved getting my stamps out since I rarely use them. I need to get them out more often! The photo of the layout is a bit wonky for some reason...hmm not sure why. I stamped a border, the title, and added extra images here and there. And I used glimmer mist of course-I am so addicted to the stuff!

And I recently made this LO using Prima stitched paper and a photo of myself when I was two.

Woah--lots of flowers here--couldn't stop myself! hehe

And I made this little house for Project 52...it's a night light! I placed an LED tea light inside to light it up-very safe since they don't get warm at all!
The little kit is from Crafty Secrets--adorable! And I used 7 Gypsies papers to decorate it.
Very simple and it matches my decor perfectly!

OK-thats all for today! I gotta go get the the kiddos up for school!

Have a great day!

xoxo Cari

BG May Layouts....

2009-05-04T06:23:00.004-04:00

Hello friends!!

I hope everyone had a great weekend! And a fabulous time for NSD...I was able to get some projects done/started. The kids were busy playing outside all weekend and my house is a disaster! It's cleaning day today...sigh...I need to motivate myself to clean the bathrooms-is that possible? LOL!

Here is the Bad Girls May Kit-Postcards from Paris....

This kit is amazing! Tons of 7 Gypsies goodness with Prima and Hambly mixed in. So lush!

And this is my favorite add-on- French Relics....love it!

Here are my layouts for the month using the kit--I had so much fun! The other designers on the team out did themselves! Make sure you take a peek at their work if you get the chance....so inspiring!

I'll be back with some Prima projects I've been working on...

See you soon!

xoxo Cari

BG sneak peeks and NSD...

2009-04-30T06:02:00.003-04:00

Hey there!!
What a busy week! I've been working on so many projects and getting ready for National Scrapbook Day! We are celebrating over at Bad Girls with the most amazing challenges and classes. The girls are so stinkin talented-I am so excited for all of the fun stuff they have planned. Here is a link to the forum to see all of the talk about whats going on that day--May 2nd! This will definitely get your mojo goin':
http://www.badgirlskits.com/mb/viewforum.php?f=103

And we are headed for a big reveal night-the May kit is amazing! Wendy always puts together the best kits! When I first saw it-I wasn't sure what direction it would take me in. But it took on a life of it's own. I created some of my most favorite layouts with it...But in the meantime-I have some sneak peeks for you!

Speaking of reveal night--it's tonight!!!!! Come on over to the BG forum and join us at 9:00pst for the party. There are prizes, games and sometimes a reveal before the reveal-wink!

We are also doing a celeb chat with Janelle Smith from 7 Gypsies on May 5th @ 11am pst--what a great chance to chat with a Gypsie and find out where her Gypsy-ness comes from!

Hope to see you there!

Be back soon with my LO's!

xoxo Cari

I just came back from the Dead..

2009-04-22T22:15:00.003-04:00

Haha!! I just got back from Buffalo where Pete and I saw the Grateful Dead in concert!

My husband is a big Dead Head and he was so excited to see them on tour. I love to go and not only listen to the music, but also to people watch...Man-it doesn't get anymore entertaining than that! I was engulfed in a sea of Tye Dyes, dreads and Patchouli...among other things...:P Tent city was fun to walk through. It has a culture that is all it's own.

t was a fabulous show! They played Bobby McGee (cool surprise) and of course-Truckin' among other favorite Dead tunes..

Then I visited Buffalo Stamps and Stuff on our way out of town to drop off my class album that I am teaching there on May 28th. It was great to see Sharon and Mark-they are the sweetest people of all time! And I also went to say Happy Birthday to my dear friend Jo--but she took the day off for her Birthday..sorry I missed you sweets! Hope you had a fabulous day! This card is for you!!

I have been bust playing with my Prima goodies! I am loving this line by Adrienne Looman. It's her Rebellious Line for Prima! Perfect for older kids, teens or any layout you want to be bold and fun! I made this little owl card using the new stamp kit and rub-ons and bling.And here she is!! Miss Holly-looking fabulous as always! I stole this photo from her and decided this is the perfect backdrop for it! Love her hat by the way! I used swirls, large page Pebble and small too, rub-ons, flowers and felt letters. Oh and black gems--they are fun to sprinkle around a page!

Thats all for today! I'll be back soon for sure!

xoxo Cari

Prima And Tattered Angels!!

2009-04-20T06:29:00.002-04:00

Hey everyone!!
I hope you had a great weekend!! The weather here was fabulous (for this time of year anyway). I got out and cleaned up part of my garden yesterday-it felt great to work outside with the sun shining on my face...ahh...can't wait for Summer!

Today-I am featured on the Prima Blog using Tattered Angels Glimmer Mist and of course--Prima goodies. The two are a match made in heaven! I hope you've had the chance to try out some Glimmer Mist...this stuff is so amazing. You can layer colors, alter anything, use with masks, ...the list goes on. I am slowly collecting a variety of colors for my stash. I am addicted. Yes--indeed, I am.
Here are my creations for the day.
I created two cards using Prima paper, old book paper and Glimmer Chips-Butterflies. I love those B-flies! I layered color upon color. I experimented with many colors and let them dry for a bit. Then I used a few on these projects.

The first card-I used Gold, Cranberry Zing, Tattered Rose and Walnut Gold.
This card I used Riptide, Gold, Coffee and Walnut Gold. This is is a Mother's Day card....

And then-I sprayed onto Kraft Packaging that Prima makes for their paintables.

Here I used Cranberry Zing, Scarlet, Golden Terracotta, Lime Twist and Lemon. Then went over the whole thing with Gold. I sprayed over flowers for a masking effect. I used a couple of Butterflies I had sprayed earlier-they are sprayed with Riptide, Walnut Gold and Gold.

Check out the Prima Blog-this is the fabulous give away-they are taking sign-ups today!!!

http://prima.typepad.com/

Thats it for today! I will be back with more projects and fun ideas!

xoxo Cari

Hambly, BG and Classes!!!

2009-04-14T22:57:00.003-04:00

Hi everyone!!!
This week-I am enjoying Spring Break with the boys! I just love not having a schedule or a strict bed time. We had movie night tonight-made popcorn and watched Kung Fu Panda--I love that movie!! I can't believe I didn't see it sooner! They are trying out Kung Fu moves on one another now as I update my blog....it won't end well-I just know it.

Anyway-I wanted to mention a few things:
Right now, Hambly has featured Bad Girls on their blog!! YAY!
If you post a comment on both Bad Girls Blog and Hambly blog-you will be entered to win a free BG Kit!! How awesome!! Here are the links so you can go check it out:

http://wendyrago.typepad.com/bad_girls

http://hamblyscreenprints.typepad.com/screen_prints_blog/2009/04/hambly-in-bad-girls-kit-club.html

Aaaannnddddd...I have a couple of class peeks for you to see.
My Build A Book Class is coming up this weekend on the 18th.

Build A Book Prima Style
Let’s build our own book with clear pages, clever inserts and lots of great embellishments. Gorgeous Prima products! Any theme you like!
Saturday April 18th 10:00-12:00
Fee: $40

My canvas class is scheduled in Buffalo on May 28th at 6:00 at Buffalo Stamps and Stuff!
And at Stampin & Scrappin Time in Bridgeport on June 6th.....
Class info:
Prima Canvas Album!
The album is 8x8 in size with clear and canvas pages that we will adorn with fabric pieces, paints and more! Create it with any theme in mind!
Thursday May 28th 6:00-9:00--Buffalo
Saturday June 6th 10:00-1:00-Bridgeport (limit 12)
Fee: $65

I have been a busy busy girl and i still have a lot more to do!!

Thanks as always for stopping by!

xoxo Cari

Prima Studio!!!

2009-04-10T16:40:00.003-04:00

Hey everyone!!!
I have been a busy girl working hard on all of my class projects, trying to get caught up!
And planning ahead! Not an easy task, especially all at once.....

I got an e-mail from Sharon today saying our videos are up!!!
I haven't watched mine yet, so I'm not so sure how well I look. It is day 5 into CHA and it is first thing in the morning with no coffee yet....sheesh! At least I am freshly groomed. Sharon did an outstanding job on her segment(of course-trying to out shine me). I helped tape a little. And I can't believe how cheery Leah is in the morning--actually--all the time!!

But first I will link you to Adam's video which is hilarious!! He cracks me up!
And he loves fairy dust......
and also in the video is Pom's significant other-Michael-he is a sweetie!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bkk2Lip3hMU&eurl=http%3A%2F%2Ftheprimastudio%2Ecom%2Ffree%5Fvideos&feature=player_embedded

And here is the link to Prima Studio;
http://theprimastudio.com/free_videos

Enjoy the segments!
I'll be back soon with some projects!
xoxo Cari

Classes, Updates and More!

2009-04-06T20:18:00.004-04:00

Hey!!!
I hope everyone had a great weekend!!
Here are some Spring cards I made with my Cricut!
I love the way they turned out! Simple and sweet! And a great way to start the season I may add...

Well, Spring Fling card event is over-it was such a great time! I love seeing the regulars and meeting new ones too! All of the prepping and hard work is totally worth it everytime! I hope to see all of them in the Fall--I look forward to it! It's scheduled for Oct. 3rd!

Everyone is so sweet and so appreciative--how did we get so lucky with a group like that?

And there were quite a few that couldn't make it that I missed!! SAD!!

I just finished our newsletter for the shop so I wanted to list my upcoming classes:

Build A Book Prima Style
Let’s build our own book with clear pages, clever inserts and lots of great embellishments. Gorgeous Prima products! Any theme you like!
Saturday April 18th 10:00-12:00 Limit 6 people
Fee: $40

Creative Minibook with OA
Get creative with this chipboard minibook and some of my favorite papers from October Afternoon. Darling embellishments, great stamp images and creativity = a great book!
Saturday May 2nd 10:00-12:00 Limit 12 people
Fee: $35

Canvas Album
The album is 8x8 in size with clear and canvas pages that we will adorn with fabric pieces, paints and more! Create it with any theme in mind!
Saturday June 6th 10:00-12:30 Limit 12 people
Fee: $40

All of my classes are chock full of techniques, goodies to play with and we always have fun!

Call the store to reserve a spot in any of these classes. 315-633-5325

I will have samples completed very soon and on display.

I am also teaching the Canvas Album class in Buffalo Thursday night May 28th during CKC. I'll be teaching at Buffalo Stamps and Stuff in Amherst. Sharon's store is so fabulous and so are all of the ladies that work there!! I LOVE going there to visit and teach! Her customers are amazing too-love that group! More details about that to come soon.......

And Prima is teaming up with Tattered Angels this month-make sure you check out the Prima blog for fun ideas and inspiration! I just love glimmer mist and their stencils--so addicting! I love to spray away! I'll be featured on April 20th but don't wait until then to see all of the great ideas-make sure you visit each week!

Gotta run! Be back soon with more schtuff!!

xoxo Cari

Butterfly Kisses!!

2009-04-03T06:39:00.003-04:00

Hi!!!

The April Kit at Bad Girls has been revealed-Butterfly Kisses! I loved this kit so much!! It is so bright and cheery with whimsical papers, diecuts and amazing possibilities! I think this is my favorite kit to date--I just love Sass A Frass Lass so much!

This first project, I used a C&T Publishing Shadow Box--they have great stuff! This shadow box originally had a lid so the whole thing would close as a box. Instead, I cut off the lid and made a hanging shadow box with a sweet little scene inside. I decorated around the frame using distress ink and distress stickles. Then added gold pearls. On the inside, I used a page from an old book and then created my scenery. I attached ribbon to the top so that I could hang it on the wall.

On this next layout-I used the lid from the box as a photo frame-love the way it pops out! Miss Frankie looks so sweet! The background of this layout has been stamped and then embossed with white emboss powder. I stitched a border too. I punched a bunch or scallopped squares and tucked them behind the frame.

This is our Ad challenge for the month-a challenge Wendy posts every month to win a cool prize! This is my interpretation---Eat Cake!!! It's Delicious! Thats a photo of my brother when he was little enjoying a piece in his fabulous outfit!

I just loved the Hambly Butterfly Screen Print-I didn't want to cut it up! I added paper behind it and sprayed Gold Glimmer Mist over the whole thing.

I love to stare at the old Amusement rides whenever I visit a fair. They have some amazing details and beauty that I can't help but notice!! So I decided to scrap a photo I took of the swing ride at the fair---it was gorgeous!!! And pink!! I went a little crazy with die cuts-but it was fun!

Thanks for stopping by!! I will have more goodies to share soon!

xoxo Cari

Bad Girls Sneak Peeks!!

2009-03-29T11:13:00.003-04:00

Hey hey!!!
I have been a busy girl creating with the Bad Girls April Kit!
And can I just say--WOW!! I felt like this kit was custom made just for me--it
is loaded with fun stuff! Amazing colors, awesome papers and goodies that were so fun to play with!!
Here are some sneak peeks for now!

I also have a big card event coming up on April 4th! I've been creating my cards and getting the kits ready for the big day. I am so excited to see all of the ladies-they are too fun and sweet!

It's going to be a fun filled day of card making for sure!

Thats all for now! Can't wait to share my layouts with you on reveal day!! And don't forget to stop by the BG message board on reveal night for fun prizes and more peeks!

xoxo Cari

It's Been Too Long...

2009-03-18T05:41:00.004-04:00

since I've posted! It's been so busy in the Fennell household! And I've been working at the High School for over a month now. They just told me the girl I've been subbing for will be returning Monday-so this is my last week there. I'm kind of sad about it-I'll miss the kids....they are so sweet (even if they have taken advantage of me-haha!) I really enjoyed it and hope that i get to return soon. We've had great weather too-so the kiddos have been outside a ton-riding bikes and playing with their friends. Can't wait for the nice weather to stay! I am sick of the mud for sure!
I've been busy playing with some Sass Lass I've been hoarding for a while. I covered an album and made a couple of layouts. I just love their papers! So fun and colorful--maybe it's spring fever too...

I'll be back soon with more goodies to share! Thanks for stopping by!

xoxo Cari

Windsor Court....Bad Girls Kit

2009-03-06T05:38:00.003-05:00

Hi Everyone!!
I hope you all have had a fabulous week!
The new March Bad Girls Kit has been revealed and is up to purchase.
It consists of brand new CHA 09 Prima-stitched mulberry paper, printed cardboard and
the amazing Flirty Little Secret line from IOD! The colors are so awesome in this kit--I could have just kept going except that I ran out of kit..haha!
We are also having a special chat with our BG Guest Designer-Sharon Laakkonen!!
(Notice her beautiful photo on one of my LO's:) She is such a sweetheart!
The chat is tonight 6-7pm PST here: http://www.badgirlskits.com/messageboard/viewforum.php?f=40

And be sure to check out the BG DT gallery--the girls have out done themselves this month with their creations!

http://www.badgirlskits.com/dt_gallery.php

Gotta run and get ready for work! Have a great weekend!!

xoxo Cari

Lots to Share!!!

2009-02-28T08:28:00.004-05:00

Hey everyone!

I have been a busy girl this week! I got the March Build A Page done for Prima, submitted a bunch of stuff to mags, and finished my projects for Bad Girls using the amazing March Kit.

I can't believe I managed to get it all done especially since I worked so much this week!

So glad it's Saturday.....phew.

Tonight is reveal night at Bad Girls--we are having a reveal night party if anyone would like to join. It's always fun to chat it up with all the excitement going on over there.
http://www.badgirlskits.com/messageboard/viewforum.php?f=82&sid=f5e23e610155835656ca8058e2f9ffec

Here is my page for Prima. I used Anam's amazing sketch-love it! And new Life Colors line by Vera Lim for Prima. As well as the new Fluer Vine and Artistry Collage flowers-yum!

If you get a chance-head on over to the Prima Blog to see the sketch and what the DT members have created from it-amazing stuff!!!

http://prima.typepad.com/

And of course I have to share some sneak peeks of what's to come once the kit goes live!

This kit was so amazing to work with-I LOVED it! Has to be one of my all time faves from Wendy!

Thanks for stopping by! Hope to have more to share soon!

xoxo Cari

Happy Sunday!

2009-02-22T12:48:00.004-05:00

Are you enjoying your Sunday? I hope so!

I have a bunch of little chores around the house I need to get to work on!

Before I got started-I wanted to do a blog post!!

I wanted to share another minibook that I did about a year ago. I made this for Fancy Pants when I was still on the team. It was sent off to CHA winter 2008. Then it was showcased on QVC when Fancy Pants was featured. And then it came back to me this past November. It was so nice to have it home again! I used their acrylic mini kit to make this book.

I have never posted it in any gallery--but it is one of my all time fave books I've made!

So here it is! Totally different from the last book I shared-LOL!

Hope you like it!

Thanks for stopping by! More to come soon!

Minibook Class

2009-02-17T09:46:00.002-05:00

Hi everyone!

What a week! I worked a ton at my new job and it was Bryan's B-Day this past week.

And now the kiddos are off from school for this week-so I am not getting much done lately...pfft.

But I get to scrap with the girls tonight so maybe I'll get something done soon...

In the meantime-I wanted to share some pics of a minibook class I just taught. We had so much fun-it was a glimmer mist extravaganza! We sprayed it on everything! It felt good to make a mess and have a great group to do so with... And I adore Heidi Swapp's Mirrored Album-too awesome! I just wish it came with pages...but thats OK-we made our own!

I used a Jenni Bowlin Bingo card, Prima Flowers, Webster's Pages Papers and lots of other goodies I had in my stash!

I will be back soon with more projects to share!

Thanks for visiting my blog-I really enjoy reading the comments! Love you all!

xoxo Cari

2009-02-07T08:59:00.002-05:00

This past month has been a busy one for me. CHA was so fun-I love seeing everyone from Prima! We have become very close friends and I love seeing them everytime I go...can't wait for summer CHA!!!

Here are my creations using the Bad Girls Febuary Kit-Double Dutch Hopscotch! It is so bright, funky and tons of fun to work with! I also got to play with some Glimmer Mist too-LOVE that stuff! I used Lime Tart on some of my layouts-such a fun color to use!

And we have a new Design Team at Prima!! This team is full of awesome talent and I am already enjoying the e-mails we have shared back and forth-they are all sweethearts! Some are already great friends of mine-Iris, Ingvild and Tracie-love you guys! Can't wait to get to know the rest of the girls better!

Amy Parker-US

Anam Stubbington-CAN

Cari Fennell-US

Caroline Ikeji-US

Christiane Müller_Germany

Ingvild Bolme -Norway

Iris Babao-Uy-Philippines

Jaime Warren-US

Janine Koczwara-Australia

Jen Jockish-US

Jo-Anne te Raa Chater-Netherlands

Joei Lau-Japan

Julie Fei-Fan Balzer-US

Malin Dahlstrom-Sweden

Oddbjorg Ringsby-Norway

Prisca Jockovic-France

Tracie Hudson-UK

You can see a peek of all their work on the Prima blog-here-http://prima.typepad.com/

and comment on a fabulous giveaway-all brand new products from CHA!

Thats all for today-be back soon with more projects!

xoxo Cari

More Prima and BG sneaks!

2009-01-31T10:10:00.005-05:00

Here are some more layouts and a few pages of my minibook I made for Prima. These two layouts are in the catalog too-YAY! I loved working with the flocked transparencies-so cool and they would look amazing on cards and minis too!

The baby layout is using Mommy and Me line-I used photos of Francesca-isn't she precious?

All the new Prima was so fun to work with-how do they keep coming up with all of these fabulous things?

And here are some sneak peeks of the Feb. Bad Girls Kit--so bright and fun--I had a blast working with this kit! The BG's are going to love it all!!!! Enjoy the peeks! And tonight is reveal night with a little party! A huge prize is going to be given away-I seriously wish i could win it!!

That's all for today! I will have more layouts from Prima to share once they arrive in the mail. I had so much stuff to bring home-I had to have Prima mail it to me. I hate waiting for stuff to arrive-I want it all now!! LOL!

Thanks for taking a peek-

xoxo CAri

So much to do!!

2009-01-20T06:16:00.004-05:00

I have been so busy creating LO's for CHA. This is such a busy time for me and I leave in two days! Still have so much to do before I head to CAlifornia. But before I go-I wanted to share more Prima layouts with you. A couple of the lines are so different but I love that! I think it's great that they have designed such diverse lines that will appeal to so many scrappers-even teens! I have one that is almost teen and it would be hard to scrap photos of him without lines like these....

This mini came out sooooo cute but i can't share anymore until they post it on the Prima blog.

This last LO is a bit gaudy but I just love it anyway! I couldn't stop adding flowers for the life of me!

Here is my class I am doing for CHA-it will be so fun! This project came out better than i thought!

Thats all for today! I have some awesome news about a project we are working on for Bad Girls-Project 52-inspiration blog!

Check it out: http://wendyrago.typepad.com/project52/

Wendy's project is amazing! I will follow this up with more details!!

xoxo CAri

I have a flirty little secret....

2009-01-11T06:48:00.005-05:00

My first CHA sneak peek from Prima!
The line is called Flirty Little Secret by the IOD girls--it's gorgeous!
The colors are so amazing together-I am going to have a ton of fun creating with this line!!
You can see more of the paper line here: http://prima.typepad.com/

And here are some little lovelies for you to look at--I was in the card making mood after Christmas. I decided to use a Frillie on a card-I just love those flowers!

And I just had to work with the new Hero Arts Japanese Girls-they are so adorable!

Thanks for looking and keep checking back for more Prima CHA peeks!

xoxo Cari