As I don’t have anything new to share with you until tomorrow, I thought I’d take this time to answer a few questions some of you asked a few weeks ago. I’m actually going to start by answering a quick question about the design I created yesterday. I was asked about applying the chalks to the inchies….how I went about it. It was really simple. No, I didn’t use Verasmark. I just used my little cotton balls that come with the I-kan-dee chalks to apply the chalk direct to the image after stamping. It really clings well to the white Inchies and was super quick to color. I’d say under 5 minutes for sure. The beauty of these chalks is the soft impressionistic look. They just blend beautifully. I found that the chalks mostly stayed put on the design but if you’re worried about them rubbing off, I’d spray them with a light coat of matte spray sealer before adhering to your design.

# Lori on 08 Apr 2008 at 2:57 pm

Do you find it tedious or time consuming to stitch on your cards? I guess what I’m asking is do you have your sewing machine ready and waiting all of the time? One more ? – do you think stitching on your cards is just a fad for now and will sort of fade away?

I really hope stitching doesn’t go out of style. I think I’d probably just go against the flow and still stitch away! 😉 I love to stitch and love the texture and interest it adds. It’s also great for shabby and vintage looks as well as country-style and even some fun funky styles. Also…stitching is the ultimate in cheap embellishing! As for finding it tedious…no! I don’t. I stitch quickly and it is so much quicker than hand piercing for faux stitching. Have you been peeking in my house? 😉 Sometimes I do keep my sewing machine up all week on the dining room table. I guess I never totally put it away…just tuck it in the corner when we need the room. I find that if I keep it threaded with white or brown thread, all I have to do is plug it in and start stitching.

Regina Davison 08 Apr 2008 at 3:24 pm

Happy Birthday, Julia! I hope you were able celebrate while grouting. LOL!

I’d like to know how long you’ve been stamping, and what got you started. Did you start by attending a SU workshop like most of us?

Take care – Regina

Thanks Regina! Hubby brought me home some Swiss Chalet and a lovely cake so while I did spend most of the night on my knees…it was great to get some progress made. We’re still working away on the kitchen but I hear that the rest of my cupboards will go in on Friday. Yay!

As for stamping, I’ve been stamping over four years now. After having my fourth child I was excited about scrapbooking again. I’d started scrapbooking as a hobby nine years ago and dabbled in it when I had the chance. Looking through magazines, I noticed a lot of stamping and techniques and thought it would be a fun addition to my pages. After purchasing some stamps at Michael’s, I saw a Stampin Up advertisement in a magazine. I went on-line and found my demo, Lori. Soaking up ideas in the catalogue, Lori clued me in to Splitcoaststampers. I lurked for a little while but once I borrowed my mom’s digital camera…started uploading my own designs. I’ve been hooked since. 🙂 AS far as workshops go…I think perhaps I’ve been to a total of five and took my very first class a couple weeks ago. I’m so thankful for the on-line stamping community where I’ve made friends, learned techniques and found an outlet for my creativity.

Karen Reynoldson 08 Apr 2008 at 4:05 pm

I am amazed at all you do within the stamping world, while being a wife and mother. What is you secret to be so organized? How much time do you spend on your blog and others in a day? And how many hours do you slepp? LOL

Me? Organized?! Well I do try! Some days I succeed and others…… 🙁 I keep a detailed calendar on my computer as well as lists and information I need to know. I also design very quickly which is a blessing for me as I wouldn’t be able to do this if I didn’t. I also multi-task where possible. As for my housekeeping…it has been more than a challenge with the renovation ongoing. I’m really trying hard to set aside time each day to sort and organize and try and get caught up again. Laundry I just do first thing every morning and meals work best if I plan the week ahead of time. As for free time…um…what’s that? I don’t watch tv. I also try and get up early as that is the most productive time of my day.

So…I’m sure that’s more than you all wanted to know! LOL Hope I didn’t put you back to sleep!

Hope you have an awesome day!

Julia