Page 2 – The Plaid Poodle

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year!
2024 was such a fantastic year for card making, and this Year in Review collage is a perfect reflection of all the fun we had. I just want to take a moment to say a huge thank you for being part of my paper crafting community this past year. Your support means so much to me, and I’m so excited to keep creating, sharing, and having fun together in 2025.

To make sure you don’t miss any of the exciting paper-crafting fun I have planned for 2025, I invite you to visit my Stampin’ Up! website. There, you can check out my event calendar, which includes free virtual mini-classes and in-person workshops. I’d love for you to join us! You’ll find links to all these opportunities and more right here:

http://www.leslie.stampinup.net

Wishing you a blessed 2025 filled with inspiration and creativity. Thank you once again for being such an important part of our community! Cheers to another year of crafting, creativity, and good times ahead! 🎉💖

Free Shipping Starts Today: What’s On Your List?

Get ready to shop and save—FREE SHIPPING starts today! 🎁 From December 9th through December 11th, enjoy free shipping on orders of $75 or more. It’s the perfect time to stock up on your favorite products—catalog items, Online Exclusives, kits, and more! Don’t miss this chance to check off your wish list.

And don’t forget to check out the Last Chance Products—many are discounted and only available while supplies last. It’s your opportunity to grab retiring favorites before they’re gone for good!

(Please note: Orders placed during this promotion are not guaranteed to arrive by December 25.)

Click Here for Free Shipping!

And speaking of not missing out, today’s your last chance to save your spot for Thursday’s in-person Boxes and Bags Christmas Crafting Party! ✂️ We’ll be creating four holiday-themed gift packages that are perfect for adding a personal touch to your gift-giving.

Click HERE for all the details and to save your spot in class today!

Last Chance Deals & New Designer Series Paper!

It’s that time of year when some of your favorite seasonal products are on their way out—once they’re gone, they’re gone! Don’t miss your chance to snag something special from the Last Chance List! Some items are on deep discounts, so grab your favorites before they disappear. Don’t wait—shop now and save big!

In addition to today’s exciting Retiring Product Sale, Stampin’ Up! has a special new product release! They’re bringing back 3 popular packs of patterned paper, now with updated colors! I absolutely love the new shades, and I know you will too! These papers are here “while supplies last”! Click on the image for a closer look at these beautiful papers and grab your favorites while you can!

Upcoming Customer Events!

If you’re local to the Kansas City area, I invite you to celebrate the holiday season at one of my Boxes & Bags Christmas Parties! This year’s party will feature a Boxes and Bags class, where you’ll create beautiful packages perfect for holiday gift-giving. This will be my final event of 2024, and it’s one you won’t want to miss! Click on the image below for all the details and RSVP today!

How to Make a Mini Pocket Envelope for Gift Cards

Looking for a fun and creative way to gift small items? Why not make a Mini Pocket Envelope with multiple compartments, perfect for holding gift cards, sweets, and little tags or bookmarks? This simple but charming DIY project is sure to add a personal touch to any gift-giving occasion!

I started with the Take a Bow 6″ x 6″ designer series paper from Stampin’ Up!, which has such a cheerful, festive vibe—perfect for the holidays or any celebration. With just a few scores and folds, I created a compact envelope with three neat pockets. Each pocket is perfectly sized for holding a gift card, a treat, or a sweet little embellished tag.

To decorate, I used the Hang an Ornament stamp and die bundle from Stampin’ Up! The intricate designs on the ornaments gave the envelope a touch of elegance and whimsy. The dies made it easy to cut out the pieces, while the stamps added gorgeous detail to each ornament. A few coordinating embellishments finished off the look!

This mini pocket envelope is so versatile—it can be customized to suit any occasion. Whether you’re gifting a holiday card, a birthday surprise, or just a sweet treat for a friend, this project adds a special, handmade touch that everyone will appreciate.

Give it a try and let your creativity shine!

Instructions:

Prepare Your Paper: Start with a 6″ x 6″ piece of Take a Bow designer series paper (or any decorative paper you prefer).
Score the Sides: Use a scoring tool to score the paper at 1-5/8″ on both sides of the paper (the left and right edges). This creates the side flaps for your mini pocket envelope.
Score the Bottom: Next, score the paper at 1-7/8″ along the bottom edge of the paper. This creates the bottom flap of the envelope that will fold up to form the pockets.
Fold and Assemble: Fold along all of your score lines—two side flaps and the bottom flap. Use adhesive to secure the sides of the envelope, leaving the top open. This creates three pockets, each perfectly sized to hold a gift card, a small treat, or a little tag.
Decorate: To decorate the envelope, embellish with ribbons, stamps, or other decorations to match your theme.

Product List

Hang An Ornament Bundle (English)	Hang An Ornament Photopolymer Stamp Set (English)	Hang An Ornament Dies	Tailor Made Tags Dies	Take A Bow 6" X 6" (15.2 X 15.2 Cm) Designer Series Paper
Basic White 8 1/2" X 11" Cardstock	Silver 12" X 12" (30.5 X 30.5 Cm) Foil Sheets	Real Red Classic Stampin' Pad	Garden Green Classic Stampin' Pad	Versamark Pad
Basics Wow! Embossing Powder	Baker's Twine Essentials Pack	Sponge Daubers	Paper Trimmer	Heat Tool (Us And Canada)
Stampin' Dimensionals

Exciting New Stampin’ Up! Products Launching November 5th!

Hey, crafty friends! 🎉

I’ve got some thrilling news for you! Tomorrow marks the release of two stunning new suites, five fabulous stamp and die bundles, and some adorable stand-alone stamp sets from Stampin’ Up! If you’re looking to elevate your crafting game, you won’t want to miss this!

What’s New?

These new products are designed to inspire your creativity, whether you’re making beautiful cards, scrapbook pages, or unique gifts. Each suite and bundle offers a variety of coordinating elements that make crafting a breeze and add that perfect touch to your projects.

Get the Sneak Peek!

Curious to see all the amazing new products? I’ve got you covered! Download a FREE PDF showcasing everything that’s being released tomorrow. It’s a great way to plan your next crafting adventure!

👉 Download the FREE PDF here!

Mark Your Calendars!

Be sure to check back tomorrow to explore these exciting new releases. Get ready to unleash your creativity and have fun crafting!

Happy stamping! ✂️💖

How to Save on Stamp Sets During the 3-Day Sale & Christmas Card Making Fun!

Woohoo! 🎉 The 3-Day Stamp Sale starts today! Enjoy a 15% discount on any of the Annual Catalog Stamp Sets. This sale only happens once a year, and it’s for three days only—ending on Wednesday, October 9! Don’t miss out! Click on the stamp sale image to check out all the awesome sets!

Also, just a quick reminder: today, October 7, 2024, is the last day to register for one of my October Card-Making Socials! 🎉 We’ll be creating these four gorgeous Christmas cards, and I want to make sure your class kit is tailored just for you.

Your spot in class is reserved as soon as payment is received, so don’t miss out! 🎉 Click on this link for all the details and to register: https://bit.ly/3KBZjtL.

If you have any questions or need help with your paper crafting, just reach out—I’m here for you! ✂️💖

How to Make a Snowy Wonder Halloween Card!

Here’s another card from my “Think Outside the Box” series. I designed this Halloween card using the Snowy Wonder stamp set and die bundle from Stampin’ Up! While this bundle is intended for Christmas and winter card-making projects, in the video below, I demonstrate how to use elements from the bundle to create a Halloween card.

Thinking outside the box can really take your card-making to the next level! Who says a winter stamp set can’t become a fun Halloween card? I encourage you to dig into your supplies and get creative with how you use them. Share your own unique creations, and let’s inspire each other to keep crafting in fresh and fun ways! Happy crafting!

Unique Ideas for Crafting Autumn-Themed Cards That Stand Out

Making a handmade autumn-themed card is easy with paper crafting supplies you already own. Nothing says, “fall is here” better than a pumpkin. I created this card using the rectangular-shaped Countryside Corners Dies from Stampin’ Up!

Product List

Iconic Imagery Bundle (English)	Iconic Imagery Photopolymer Stamp Set (English)	Iconic Imagery Dies	Sketched Plaid Cling Stamp Set	Autumn Leaves Photopolymer Stamp Set (English)
Lost Lagoon 8-1/2" X 11" Cardstock	Basic White 8 1/2" X 11" Cardstock	Pumpkin Pie 8-1/2" X 11" Cardstock	Early Espresso 8-1/2" X 11" Cardstock	Pumpkin Pie Classic Stampin' Pad
Cajun Craze Classic Stampin' Pad	Crushed Curry Classic Stampin' Pad	Early Espresso Classic Stampin' Pad	Countryside Corners Dies	Birch Wood 3 D Embossing Folder
Natural Tones Linen Thread	Pecan Pie & Clear Ribboned Adhesive Backed Dots	Lost Lagoon Stampin’ Blends Combo Pack	Stampin' Dimensionals	Multipurpose Liquid Glue
Mini Glue Dots

Mystery Boxes Are Available Today!

What is a BOGO Mystery Box?

A Mystery Box is FREE when you place your order with me using the Mystery Box Host Code NCQVTAFR. All boxes are filled with retired Stampin’ Up! products like stamps, dies, paper, accessories, and more! I have a personal goal with Stampin’ Up! that I want to achieve and the Mystery Box is my way of thanking you for helping me reach that goal!

How do I Get a BOGO Mystery Box?

Starting today, SEPTEMBER 10, 2024 when you place a minimum order with me in my ONLINE STORE HERE, you will be eligible for a Mystery Box shipped to you WHILE SUPPLIES LAST! I will even pay the shipping for your Mystery Box!

Use the Mystery Box Host Code NCQVTAFR when placing your order.
They are limited and will go FAST, so feel free to contact me here to ask if they are still available.
Your order must be before tax and shipping
All products are “as is”.. some new, most gently used, all in good condition
Contents of each box will vary – it’s a MYSTERY, remember?
Only available while supplies last
No refunds or exchanges
1 box per customer

How to Make a Fun Pumpkin Spice Card for Fall Celebrations

As the air turns crisp and the leaves start to change, it can only mean one thing—pumpkin spice latte season is back! There’s something so cozy and comforting about the flavors and colors of fall, and it’s the perfect time to let that autumnal inspiration spill over into your crafting. If you love pumpkin spice season as much as I do, why not incorporate it into your handmade cards and 3D projects!

Crafting Cozy Vibes: A Handmade Card for Fall

There’s no better way to celebrate the return of all things pumpkin spice than with a handmade card that reflects the warmth and coziness of the season. The More Than Autumn bundle from Stampin’ Up! includes all the fun fall elements like steaming coffee cups, pumpkins, cinnamon sticks, and donuts!

Click Here for the You Had Me at Coffee & Donuts Project Sheet!

Click Here for the Pumpkin Spice Latte Packet Holder

Whether you’re sending a card to a coffee-loving friend, sharing a treat with a coworker, or just celebrating fall, the possibilities are endless. You can find all the products I used in the projects shared in this post listed on the project sheets and in my online store. Click on the cart below to shop!

New Season, New Holiday Catalog!

Labor Day has passed and it’s go time! 🍂 Fall is officially in full swing, and with it comes the Stampin’ Up! Holiday Mini Catalog which goes live today! Click on the catalog image below to view the virtual catalog, or visit my online store here to see all things new!

In addition to the holiday products, Stampin’ Up! is also introducing a brand-new line of scrapbooking products! These products debut in the Stampin’ Up! online store today, and will only be available while supplies last. If you see something you love, be sure to order early!

Get ready to dive into a season full of creativity and inspiration and if there’s anything you need or any way I can support you in your papercrafting journey, please don’t hesitate to reach out!

New Scrapbook Products Are Almost Here!

Stampin’ Up! is introducing a brand-new line of scrapbooking products! These products are so fresh and numerous, they have their own virtual brochure. Click on the brochure image below to explore all the new memory-keeping goodies available.

These products debut in the Stampin’ Up! online store on September 4th, and will only be available while supplies last. If you see something you love, be sure to order early!

Introducing My Card-Making Socials!

I’m excited to introduce my new card-making socials, where we go beyond just a class—it’s a welcoming community! In these gatherings, I teach a variety of paper crafting techniques in a relaxing and supportive environment. Whether you’re a beginner or an avid crafter, you’ll find this is the perfect place to unwind, escape the stresses of everyday life, and create beautiful handmade cards you’ll be proud to share.

Join us for our next card-making social, where you’ll have everything you need to create four beautiful autumn-themed cards using brand-new products from the Stampin’ Up! Holiday Catalog.

The class kit includes all the elements to assemble your cards, along with a full package of Pecan Pie & Clear Ribboned Adhesive-Backed Dots to add the perfect embellishments. You’ll also receive 12 sheets of Designer Series Paper from the Iconic Celebrations paper pack, giving you plenty of extra material to take home and continue crafting. This is a fantastic opportunity to relax, create, and leave with not only completed cards but also the supplies and inspiration to keep crafting at home!

Join us for this in-person card-making class at my home in Lee’s Summit, MO. This promises to be a fun and creative gathering! There are two sessions to choose from, so pick the one that suits your schedule best. We can’t wait to craft together!

Date: Thursday, September 19, 2024
Two Class Times: 10:00 am or 6:30 pm
Location: My home in Lee’s Summit, MO
Cost: $27

Your spot in class is reserved once payment has been received and we ask that you RSVP by Friday, September 6th to secure your spot, allowing us to prepare a class kit tailored just for you. Click on the image below to register!

My Summer Sabbatical Update & BIG August Discounts!

Hello Creative Friends!

I hope this post finds you staying cool and in the midst of wonderful crafting projects! As we enter a new month, I’m thrilled to share some exciting promotions and offers that will help you save on your favorite Stampin’ Up! products. Let’s dive into the details!

via GIPHY

1. My Summer Sabbatical & What’s Coming Next!

As my summer sabbatical comes to an end, I’m excited to share that I’ve been working behind the scenes on planning some new and exciting crafting experiences. I can’t wait to reveal what’s in store and share these creative adventures with all of you. Stay tuned for more details coming soon!

2. Redeem Your Bonus Days Coupons!

If you earned Bonus Days Coupons during July, now’s the perfect time to redeem them here! Use your coupons to enjoy discounts on your purchases. Simply enter the coupon codes at checkout to apply the savings.

3. Save 15% on Select Designer Series Paper

August 6th brings an incredible offer: 15% off select Designer Series Paper! This is the perfect opportunity to stock up on beautiful paper for your next projects. Even better, you can stack the savings by using your Bonus Days Coupons on top of this discount.

DSP Sale

Bright & Beautiful 6" X 6" (15.2 X 15.2 Cm) Designer Series Paper	Countryside Inn 12" X 12" (30.5 X 30.5 Cm) Designer Series Paper	Country Lace 12" X 12" (30.5 X 30.5 Cm) Designer Series Paper	Country Woods 12" X 12" (30.5 X 30.5 Cm) Designer Series Paper
Full Of Life 6" X 6" (15.2 X 15.2 Cm) Designer Series Paper	Lily Pond Lane 6" X 6" (15.2 X 15.2 Cm) Designer Series Paper	Mediterranean Blooms 12" X 12" (30.5 X 30.5 Cm) Designer Series Paper	Perennial Lavender 12" X 12" (30.5 X 30.5 Cm) Designer Series Paper
Take To The Sky 12" X 12" (30.5 X 30.5 Cm) Designer Series Paper	Thoughtful Journey 6" X 6" (15.2 X 15.2 Cm) Designer Series Paper	To Market 12" X 12" (30.5 X 30.5 Cm) Designer Series Paper	Unbounded Beauty 12" X 12" (30.5 X 30.5 Cm) Designer Series Paper
Wildly Flowering 12" X 12" (30.5 X 30.5 Cm) Designer Series Paper	Winter Meadow 12" X 12" (30.5 X 30.5 Cm) Designer Series Paper

4. Explore New Kits and Online Exclusives

Don’t miss out on the latest kits and online exclusives! Whether you’re looking for something new to try or want to add to your collection, there’s something for everyone. Remember, you can use your Bonus Days Coupons on these items as well, making it an excellent time to shop and save.

Thank you for being a part of our creative community! Your passion and creativity inspire me every day. If you have any questions or need assistance with your orders, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Learn How to Make a Greeting Card using the Double or Triple Layer Technique!

via GIPHY

I guess you can teach an old dog new tricks! I’ve been paper-crafting for more years than I can count and, although the double and triple layer card-making technique has been around for awhile, today was the first time I tried my hand at it.

I used a 5-1/2″ x 4-1/4″ piece of the Flowering Zinnias Designer Series Paper and the Deckled Rectangle Dies from Stampin’ Up! to make the card below. The beautiful zinnia patterned paper does all the work so there was no need to add a lot of additional embellishment to the card front. It was such a quick and easy card to make but the end result is lovely!

I had a lot of fun coloring this next card. I used the double-layer technique along with stamped images from the Simply Zinnia stamp set from Stampin’ Up! It was a bit trickier to complete but I share all the tips and tricks for this technique in the video posted below.

Product List

Simply Zinnia Bundle (English)	Simply Zinnia Cling Stamp Set (English)	Simply Zinnia Dies	Adhesive Backed Shiny Sequins	Flowering Zinnias 12" X 12" (30.5 X 30.5 Cm) Designer Series Paper
Tuxedo Black Memento Ink Pad	Versamark Pad	Basic White 8 1/2" X 11" Thick Cardstock	Basic White 8 1/2" X 11" Cardstock	Lemon Lime Twist 8-1/2" X 11" Cardstock
Basic Black 8-1/2" X 11" Cardstock	Deckled Rectangles Dies	Stylish Shapes Dies	Stampin' Cut & Emboss Machine	Basics Wow! Embossing Powder
Heat Tool (Us And Canada)	Bone Folder	Take Your Pick	Multipurpose Liquid Glue	Stampin' Dimensionals
Pumpkin Pie Stampin' Blends Combo Pack	Melon Mambo Stampin' Blends Combo Pack	Lemon Lolly Stampin’ Blends Combo Pack	Old Olive Stampin' Blends Combo Pack