Christmas Gifts

I have been pretty busy lately getting a jump start on my Christmas cards and gift sets. I still have a ways to go but I have been inspired by the challenge designs of the Technique Twist and My Pumpkin Challenge.

For the Technique Twist, I was intrigued by the 'traced doodling' technique. I'm not sure if I understood all of the steps as mentioned in the Splitcoast Stampers video by Mel but here is what I did. I used my SU Whisper White craft ink (LOVE this stuff!) with my star stamp from My Paper Pumpkin kit and with some crayons from my girls' Crayola stash, I went to town doodling the stars. I also used my heat gun to set the wax. I like how it gives the stars a muted look and it was fun to try a new technique!

For My Pumpkin Challenge entry, I wanted to make some simple note cards for my daughter's 1st grade teacher team. I think all of her teachers are outstanding but one in particular, Ms. Ford, stands out for me because as a full-time intern, she works hard to teach the kiddos- all the while unpaid! She has a love for teaching that impresses me and I know she will be fantastic 'certified' teacher one day...

Like me, Ms. Ford is alumni of Texas Tech so I went with a red and black theme (ink, ribbon, cardstock, etc.). As a side note, Ms. Ford learned that I graduated from TTU when one day my daughter noticed her graduation ring on her finger and said out loud- 'my mom has THAT ring!' Well, it's been a while since I graduated and I don't wear 'that' ring anymore;) I have a feeling Ms. Ford won't either when she and her boyfriend get hitched:)

For the box, I used a wonderful stationary box template by Jin of Under A Cherry Tree; using my Cameo made it easy-peasy. Thanks Jin for the download. (I've been following your blog for quite a while now but somehow missed this post but I'm glad I found it!!!).

Linking to the parties over here and here: