DogGone Delightful Stampin'

Wednesday Spotlight - What's Happening at DDS Studios!?

Hello Fellow Stampers ~

 

Oh My Goodness!!  I hope you don't think I dropped off the face of the earth.  It may seem like it; but I haven't!!  LOL

It is crazy times here at DDS Studios.  I know most of you know I'm getting married this year (September 21st to be exact).  And between wedding planning and getting our lives put together, it is absolutely nuts around here right now!!  I am quite busy now with sorting, and moving household stuff to Mike's home; and then we have to sort and clean out on that side too.  I have been feeling fairly overwhelmed quite frankly! 

Then it's the demolition and remodel of the basement that is really the BIG deal!!  And that is about to begin.  We've been meeting with the designer; and I'm meeting with her again today!  Soon DDS Studios will have a new home . . .  and I will share with you all along the way how it's going and what's happening -- and I'll be VERY excited to show the finished result!  I am quite excited!

Many of you know about the "do over" of the small room in my current home several years ago.  You can reminisce with me HERE and HERE and HERE.  I don't think I posted after the March 2016 update -- and so you don't know all the additional finishing touches that were done in the room; the IKEA drawer units and so forth that came in.  Overall, I have loved this little room.  It may be small, but it has been cozy and my favorite place to be!  It's been wonderful for my ladies too when they come over for class!

But all good things must come to and end as they say!  And although I have loved this space -- it has always felt a little bit "tight" to me and certainly it wasn't absolutely the way I would have imagined things; especially as I had to "make do" by not putting in true cupboards or counters, etc.  This was a bedroom and I knew someday I'd need to convert it back so I could sell the home.  Yet, as I look at these pictures, I get a little teary-eyed!  It will be a little bit hard to say goodbye to our first DDS Studio!!

 

And so now, here we are today (and my ornery man - LOL)!!!  Soon it will be time for DDS Studios to have a brand new home . . . hopefully closer to the way I would imagine my ultimate dream studio to be!!  There's a lot to plan and go yet!!  And so, we begin our journey together . . .

Here are the pictures taken this past week in Mike's basement at his home.  We have been cleaning out, packing things up, and basically getting ready for demolition and construction.

In the pictures above you've been getting a peak into the main room to the left as you come down the stairs (the picture immediately above is looking back across the room from the opposite side).  This has been (and will continue to be) the TV / Library room.  We are doing a "big" makeover here however!

The bar unit is going to be torn out; and all the current cupboards and built in shelving; the paneling, chair rail - all of it!  LOL

Everything is going to be brand new - We are designing a new shelf built in on the wall behind these couches; and on the opposite wall a new built in for the TV, displays, components (and a Wine Fridge of course!!  LOL)

This room will be our cozy game room, TV room, gathering place -- nobody will want to leave!!  haha

Straight ahead and to the right has been Mike's "office" area, and where he would put together puzzles, and models, and had more books, etc.

Year's ago Mike finished out the basement and built this wall to form the room(s) you see above; and a doorway that leads into a large storage area. 

Over the past month or so we have (mostly Mike -- LOL) been working hard to sort and clean out this area back here - which is now mostly empty back to the furnace area.

beyond that point we will continue to maintain a roughed in storage area.

In this area will also be space for Mike's woodworking hobby and tools.

Basically everything you see is getting demolished and torn out!  And in its place will be the Brand New DDS Studios!!

In this nook area will be my Sewing Table, Cutting Table, my new design wall, and a built-in for material and other sewing stuffs!

This cute nook is soon to become a wonderful storage area for all kinds of goodies!!

 

Eventually, with all the walls down, and the area opened up, there will be all new built-ins, counter/cupboard, storage, a big center island for my classes, you name it - and yes, Stampin' Storage will be a BIG part of our organization here at DDS Studios - and a great big center island for my classes!  Yeah!!

 

As demolition begins -- I'll be taking more pictures and sharing!!  I'm super-excited to be bringing you along on this journey!  Please be patient with me.  Blogging may be sporadic over these next 2-1/2 months as we begin to pack things up and make the transition.  Especially in June when the major move is supposed to happen!  I'll try to keep the impact to my blogging and sharing as minimal as I can.  But if I'm "silent" please understand that there is a lot going on right now!!

 

LOVE BIG SAVINGS?!  Stampin' Up! Clearance Rack Refresh!!!

 

The Stampin’ Up! Clearance Rack was JUST refreshed with tons of new & additional products - you won't believe it!! You’ll discover lovely die sets, punches, embellishments, pretty paper, ribbon, ink and more with BIG discounts (up to 60%).  Discounted products sell quickly and are ONLY AVAILABLE WHILE SUPPLIES LAST.  

SHOP the clearance rack thru me now by clicking here!  Please don’t delay if you don’t want to miss out on your favorites.

DON’T MISS OUT ON YOUR RETIRING FAVORITES!    Get the list of Stampin’ Up! retiring products and important product announcements here.  Retiring products are available through June 3 or while supplies last!

Hugs, . . .

 

 

Terrific Tuesdays ~~ Everything You Need to Know!!

 Hello Fellow Stampers ~~

 

Goodness Gracious!!!  Well, it's been an exciting, and also overwhelming 24 hours for the Demonstrators of Stampin' Up!  Both a Retiring List - AND a brand new 2019-2020 Catalog!!

So much to talk about . . . . so let's get started!!

 

 

THERE'S A NEW CATALOG COMING!!!

Yes indeed!!  There is a new catalog coming your way in mid-May!  Are you ready?  It's gorgeous!  And you're going to love it!

But you can only get a catalog through your Stampin' Up! Demonstrator!

And you can only get a catalog thru me, if you're a Current Customer; OR, if you notify me today that you'd like a copy of the 2019-2020 Annual Catalog!

Contact me today - and let me know :-)

 

THE ANNUAL RETIRING PRODUCTS LIST IS HERE!!

It's that time of the year -- when we get a little teary-eyed as we start to say goodbye to some of our favorite and beautiful products.

And we get excited at the same time for the new things that are glimmering on the horizon!

Let's get the teary-eyed out of the way first, and talk about the Retiring Products List that was Released yesterday afternoon!

 

Some Demos rushed out the list on their blogs yesterday before sitting down and taking a good look at what SU! had provided us.  I will never do that to You ~  my best customers!  I have now had time to review the list(s), and discuss some problems with our demo group.  And I have revised and cleaned up the lists so that you can better view and review for your use.  Let's chat about things for a few minutes . . .

2019_Occasions Catalog_Retiring_Products_List

Click on the link above to download the "cleaned up" version of the 2019 Occasions Catalog Retiring Products List!

Then take note of a few of the following comments:

-  Remember that if a bundled stamp set and die set are carrying forward into the new Annual Catalog - the bundle itself is ALWAYS discontinued!

So if you see the word "bundle" but no other indication that the stamp set or dies is retiring - that is a good sign that those are carrying forward into the Annual Catalog!!  Suggestion!!  Get the "bundled" price NOW!!  You won't be able to get that bundled price in the new catalog!!

-  If you DON'T see it on the list, it's carrying forward to the new catalog!  Yeah!

If you DO see it on the list - Yikes!!  Buy it today!!  It's only available "while supplies last" or until June 2nd - whichever comes first!!  ;-)

2018-2019 Annual Catalog Retiring Products List

Click on the link above to download the "cleaned up" version of the 2018-2019 Annual Catalog Retiring Products List!

The Annual Catalog retiring products list was somewhat more of an issue this year.  It was very muddled, confusing and unclear.  So this revised version has been created to give ease and clarity.  If you picked up a list from someone else's website - I apologize in advance!!  Use This List!!

Several Items of Note!

As of the new Annual Catalog - ALL Wood Mount and Clear Mount stamp sets will be a thing of the past!

That means . . . the original Retiring List makes it look like EVERYTHING in the catalog is retiring!!  This is NOT true!

Rather, stamp sets that are being carried forward are being re-issued in the New Cling Mount format ONLY!

The list above will tell you if the stamp set is "returning in cling mount" - if it does not say anything, the stamp set is retiring totally.

 

The list also notes when just a "bundle" is retiring - but the stamp set and die set are being carried forward.

If you see the words "will no longer be bundled" - this means you can still get the stamp set and the die set in the next catalog - just not at the discounted bundled price!!

If you've been wanting it - buy it NOW at the bundled price and save 10%!!

Again, if an item is retiring, buy it today!!  It's only available "while supplies last" or until June 2nd - whichever comes first!!

 

EVERYTHING'S COMING UP ROSY!!!

I am SOOOOO excited about this brand new product offering coming our way!!

You will NOT want to miss this one!

And it's for a Limited Time Only!!

So get ready!!

Here's more about this wonderful "Product Medley"

 

 

EXCLUSIVE Products - that you can ONLY get in this Product Medley Collection during the month of May!!

 

Click to See the Details About Everything Is Rosy HERE

 

 

HUGS FROM SHELLI!!

Oh My Goodness!!

I am just so darn excited!!

For those who do not know or are not familiar - Shelli Gardner is the co-Founder and current Board Chair of Stampin' Up!

Her aesthetic and romantic touch are so lovely - and I am so excited that the May kit is a collaboration with Shelli!!

If you have discontinued your Paper Pumpkin subscription recently, or have never tried this wonderful "kit in a box" - NOW is the time!!!

You Do Not Want to Miss This One!!!

Renew or Subscribe by May 10th!!

You can Subscribe HERE - or place a 3-month, 6-month of 12-month subscription order with your next regular Stampin' Up! Order!!

 

NEW STORAGE SOLUTIONS BY STAMPIN' UP!

Learn More about the fabulous New Storage Solutions for your desk, craft, or work area HERE -

And then snag a wonderful set up - crafted just your way - today!!

 

BE PART OF STAMPIN’ UP! & MY PAPER PUPS STAMPING COMMUNITY!

• This is the BEST time to join Stampin' Up! - because you get to snag all the Brand New Goodies FIRST!!  My Favorite Thing!!
• Purchasing the $99 starter kit and joining Stampin’ Up! includes access to exclusive Stampin’ Up! ideas and resources and discounts.  Get the starter kit details (the ultimate bundle) and learn about the benefits of joining here.  No risk and no penalty to drop!
• Purchasing the starter kit and joining through me includes access to private Facebook groups and our community at large.  Immerse yourself at any level you like in daily stamping discussion, ideas and inspiration, recognition, friendship and fun!  There are so many benefits to joining Stampin' Up! AND being a part of our larger Stampin' Pretty Pals Community - We're calling YOU!! :-)
  

 

Hugs, . . .

Mix-It Up Mondays . . . Oh Dear! Oh Dear! What Will We Do!?!

Hello Fellow Stampers ~

 

Well my goodness!  I've taken more of a break this past week than I had planned.  It is quite busy around here now, as we are gearing up more and more for the remodel at Mike's house and trying to consolidate 2 households of goods -- and we both have 2 VERY full households of "stuff!"  I think I may need to pass my "stuff" on to the "understuffed!"  LOL   I will be sharing as we begin the demolition of the basement and the rebuild of the brand new DDS Studios home!!  I'm very excited about this -- and am looking forward to this part of the move for sure!!

 

 

I've been putting off a little bit making the BIG announcements and news that came out last week for demonstrators.  I was a little bit taken aback by how many demonstrators made the decision to make these announcements public before they really should have been.  And with the release of the official "Retiring List" this afternoon; along with the fact that the Demonstrators now have the brand new 2019-2010 Annual Catalog in their hands, it's going to be a BIG week of many announcements - so please bear with me, and stay right here as I try to bring it all to you . . . the next several days we will talk about all that is "going" and all that is "coming."

 

Let's start first with some . . . Bad News . . .

 

You have indeed heard correctly!!  Stampin' Up! is discontinuing the Stampin' Trimmer - and it will no longer be available for purchase (along with ALL the accessories) once supplies have been depleted.  Here's is what Stampin' Up! shared with us:

We have decided to retire the Stampin’ Trimmer as of June 3, 2019, including all accessories—replacement cutting blades, scoring blades, and cutting mats. We’ve experienced challenges with our supplier and are taking the opportunity to research and explore a replacement option for this product, which will not be the same as the current Stampin’ Trimmer. There will be a gap in time between when the current Stampin’ Trimmer retires and when a new product becomes available, but we do not currently have an estimated timeframe. Once we feel confident in the new offering, we will communicate more details with you about the new product.

While the replacement cutting blades will also retire with the trimmer and will not be featured in the annual catalog, we have ordered what would normally be six months of inventory based on recent historical patterns to help demonstrators and customers during this transition away from our current trimmer. But please know that this news could cause faster inventory depletion. When the retiring list goes live on April 15, the order limit for the blades will increase from three to six (and the limit will remain at six until they’re no longer available). And from now until September, we will receive intermittent shipments from the supplier. Throughout these months, we anticipate times when the blades will not be orderable (and not offered as a backorder). During those downtimes, you will have the option to enter an email address to receive notification when the blades are available again.

Please take careful note of the wording I've highlighted in purple.  Cutting blades for our Trimmer's will be available off-and-on until September (or when supplies are simply no longer available); and you can begin stocking up today by ordering SIX sets at a time.  (Limit 6).  I've already stocked my supplies for my Trimmer.  I encourage you to do the same.  It could be some time until we see what new Stampin' Trimmer will look like or be available. 

 

And the Bad News Keeps Comin!! . . .

Yes!!  You are seeing that correctly!!  The relationship between Stampin' Up! and Sissix has been severed and the Big Shot will no longer be available once current supplies are gone!  This has MANY impacts to those of us who have a Big Shot; AND to those who have been on the fence about getting one!!

First, let me again share what Stampin'Up! shared with us last week . . .

 

We are making some big changes to our die-cutting and embossing product line that will give us a better opportunity to support the long-term vision we have for the line. While we’ve worked with our current supplier for many years, we’ve had the opportunity to reassess this relationship. After extensive research, demonstrator feedback, and evaluation, we’ve decided to move in a new direction and we’re optimistic about this new course.

Innovation requires risk, and in our pursuit of a better overall die-cutting and embossing product line, we’re experiencing more significant challenges than we originally planned for, including some transition issues like the die inventory problems we experienced beginning in March .

The challenges we are facing moving forward are not insurmountable, but they are taking time to resolve. Because of these setbacks, we will not offer a die-cutting & embossing machine in the 2019–2020 annual catalog.

However, we will offer new dies and embossing folders in the 2019–2020 annual catalog. Since we’re using a new supplier, the dies and folders will be manufactured differently; this means the way you use the new style of dies and folders will be a little different than how you used the old style. Both the new-style and old-style dies and embossing folders can work with any die-cutting & embossing machine (in some cases, adaptations like shims may be required because the gap between rollers on machines may vary slightly between manufacturers). You may have noticed we’re not referring to these products using names you’re familiar with. Another change required in this transition is to the terminology we use to refer to die-cutting and embossing products.

One of the significant factors in this decision is that instead of working with a supplier who works with a manufacturer, we are moving to a direct-to-manufacturer relationship. This means that we will work directly with the factories who manufacture our dies and folders instead of working with another company who then works with different factories. This gives us greater control and potential in the manufacturing process. Here’s one example of how that will work: having a direct-to-manufacturer relationship will better allow us to implement die and folder ideas we gather from you, our power users. When we gather feedback and ideas from you, we will now be able to work directly with the factories making the products to implement those innovative ideas.

 

Now let me clear about several things that I have learned from other sources over this past week, including Demonstrator Support.  First, there is no question that Stampin' Up! wanted certain capabilities with their dies, embossing folders, etc., and Sissix was not willing to support those desires/needs.  Secondly, I have come to understand from another source who is quite tapped into the industry that there are currently multiple lawsuits from Sissix against numerous stamping companies regarding patent infringement issues, and counter-lawsuits by those same companies.  None were named to me, but I'm sure if one wanted to do their Google research, they could find plenty on this current issue. 

What this means . . . this means several things.  1)  SU! could find itself ensnared in this debacle as it attempts to move forward with a "direct to manufacturer" relationship on creating and manufacturing dies and embossing folders for its product line; 2) it will most certainly be quite some time until we see any kind of SU! die cutting/embossing machine.

Unlike some Demonstrators out there who are trying to put a "positive" spin on these activities, I want to be as honest with you as I possibly can. I do not perceive anything new being available to us before late 2020 (or longer), depending on what SU! is trying to design, and what patent issues they run up against in that process.

Next, Sissix created the Big Shot exclusively for Stampin' Up!, with the Stampin' Up! logo on it.  Any "Big Shot" on the open market is slightly different and does not have the SU! Logo on it.  The "sister" to the Big Shot, is called the Big Kick! (also created and designed by Sissix) and is available in local craft stores (Michaels, Hobby Lobby, Jo-Ann Fabrics, etc.).  They are very similar, but not identical.

Because both machines are created by Sissix, the accessories are also similar.  The cutting plates, magnetic platform, Big Shot Die Brush, etc., are all available on the open market, just under different names.  For example . . .  you will need to know that the Cutting Plates are already gone and sold out at Stampin' Up!  There are not going to be any more (even for backorders that had occurred).  However, you can find the "standard cutting pads" very easily on the internet [just search for Sissix Big Kick cutting pads]: 

 

Here is a set on Amazon for $9 and you can see them HERE.  One fun note, regular Sissix cutting pads also come in colors!

 

So, this means you should be able to find any and all accessories out on the open market to support your Big Shot in these coming months and years.  We will cross our fingers and hope that SU! comes up with something fantastic to replace the Big Shot.  In the meantime, if you have been wanting a Big Shot, NOW is the time to make your purchase - along with ALL your supporting accessories - Magnetic Platform, Precision Base Plate, Big Shot Die Brush and the new Embossing Mats.  Do it BEFORE supplies are gone (like they already are on the cutting plates).

 

 

The Good News!

There is always a silver lining - and so don't despair.  Get your Big Shot today if you haven't yet!!  And know that you can get the accessories for it out in the general crafting world.

Secondly, embossing folders and dies are NOT going away for Stampin' Up!  we have lots of exciting new things coming in the new catalog - and all will be well with our crafting world!!  Die cutting and embossing are here to stay!  You will be able to continue using your Big Shot (or whatever you currently own) with all the new dies and folders that Stampin' Up! releases in the future.

A direct relationship with a manufacturer is always a plus!  Taking out the middle man means better communication, more innovation, and better supplier/customer relationships and inventory.  So I look forward to this new chapter for Stampin' Up! being extremely successful.

 

Look over all your Die Cutting options beginning on page 214 of your current Annual Catalog!!  And please do not hesitate to reach out to me with questions.

 

We'll be back later with the 2019 Retiring Product List!!  So much to come!!

 

Hugs, . . .

 

 

 

 

 

 

"Families First" ~~ April 2019 Stampin' Pretty Pals Blog Hop

Good Morning Fellow Stampers ~

We've arrived at the 2nd Wednesday of April ~~ and that can mean only one thing!  It's time for the Stampin' Pretty Pals monthly blog hop!  Yeah!!

 

So welcome to the Pals’ April blog hop.  I am SO glad you’ve stopped in for a visit today, because we LOVE to put families first - and there are definitely some wonderful milestones in life that celebrate our families!  Whether it's Mothers, Fathers, kids, birthdays, or just plain the joy of Spring -- you'll find it all here today!!

You may be just starting the hop here or you may have come from Pamela Sadler at Stampin Pink Rose.  Either way, you’ve come to the right place.  You’ll find the the full line-up below to help you move or “hop” along from Pal-to-Pal when you're done visiting with me.  ;-)

 

 

Today's card is a little bit "unusual" in the way I created it.  But we'll talk more about that in a minute!

I love the Fable Friends stamp set; and I love that it's not only great for Spring and Easter ~~  it's Fabulous for a new baby welcome card!

So in this card today we'll "welcome Spring" and welcome a new baby as part of Spring!!  Because they go together -- right?!!  ;-)  LOL

 

I don't have a "name" for this little bit different card, but here's what I did ~~  it was kind of fun.

Instead of a standard card base - I cut a piece of Thick Whisper White cardstock, 5-1/2" x 4-1/4"

Then I cut a piece of Pineapple Punch cardstock 5-1/4" x 8", and scored it at 4"; then I attached that folded card to the Thick Whisper White piece as a "background" mat to the card base -- kinda cool, huh?!

Then I built the card front from there.

The 5/8" Whisper White Flax Ribbon wraps all the way around the Gingham Gala DSP and card base front, and is secured with a staple!

 

Then I spent some extra time to make this card super special!!

The front piece is Shimmery White and has the grass and sentiment stamped directly on it; and popped with dimensionals on the card front.

The Momma and her babies are stamped on a separate piece in Memento Tuxedo Black and colored with various Stampin' Blends; then carefully fussy cut and popped with dimensionals.

This happy Spring family leads to the inside of the card . . .

 

To welcome the "darling baby".  I love how this all plays together and the fun bright Spring colors!

 

What a fun sweet card!

And I love the funky idea I came up with to set the "card base" on a background mat.

It really is cool!  Give it a try!!

 

More inspiration awaits! Use the Blog Hop Line-up below to visit the rest of this month’s Pals.  My fellow Pals are excited to show you what they’ve created!  Don’t forget to show us some love by commenting on our creations.  Mark your calendars for Wednesday, May 8, 2019, when our Hoppin’ Pals share their “More than One Score” projects. Oooooo ~~ what do you suppose that mysterious title means!!  LOL  Don’t miss the fun!

 

Until Next Time . . . Puppy Hugs,

 

April Pals Blog Hop Lineup

1. Mary Fish at Stampin' Pretty
2. Sue Becker at RnR Stamping
3. Katy McGloin at Just Fun Stamping
4. Lisa Ann Bernard at Queen B Creations
5. Mary Hanson at Up North Stampin’
6. Rosanne Mulhern at Heartfelt Stamping
7. Beth McCullough at Stamping Mom
8. Tricia Chuba at ButterDish Designs
9. Debbie Mageed at Secrets to Stamping
10. Rae Harper-Burnet at Wild West Paper Arts
11. Pamela Sadler at Stampin Pink Rose
12. Wendy Klein at Doggone Delightful Stampin'
13. Susan Itell at Simple Stampin'
14. Jackie Beers at Blue Line Stamping
15. Su Mohr at Aromas And Art
16. Jeanie Stark at Just Stampin'
17. Leah O’Brien at Stamping By The Bay
18. Lynn Kolcun at Avery’s Owlery
19. Stesha Bloodhart at Stampin' Hoot!
20. Jill Killeen at Killeen House Studio

 

Mix-It Up Mondays ~~ Romantic In Color

Hello Fellow Stampers ~

 

Oh My!  Such a busy weekend; and such a pretty one with Spring in the air.  Imagine my surprise when the weather man started predicting an April blizzard for Wednesday this week --  LOL  Only in Colorado!!  We've had them before!  So I'm not totally surprised.  Guess I'll have to cover the peonies which are poking their heads above the soil now!!

 

 

Get the Stampin' Up! 2017-2019 Retiring In Colors NOW!!

Today we're focusing on the 2017-2019 In Color collections (and all the accessories) which will be posted up for retirement in just a few short weeks!  Yikes!!

This has been a wonderful collection of colors - Lemon Lime Twist, Tranquil Tide, Powder Pink, Berry Burst, Fresh Fig -- and I hope you have enjoyed them as much as I have!  I will be sad to see them go!

IF YOU LOVE THEM, GET THEM NOW!  Most of the coordinating 2017-2019 In Color products will retire as of June 4th (when the current annual catalog ends and the NEW 2019-2020 annual catalog begins) and will be on the Stampin’ Up! Retiring Products List in as of April 15.  In the past, retiring In Color products have sold out very quickly (and forever) once they hit the retiring product list.  Which means it's always smart to get your inventory checked over twice right now -- and place those orders BEFORE April 15th.

I made the gorgeous set of cards above yesterday using the Wonderful Romance stamp set and dies (unfortunately, those dies are now sold out and gone!), and featuring each of the In Colors.  Let's take a closer look at each card today while we review each In Color and shop for Retiring Stampin’ Up! 2017-2019 In Colors products:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We'll take a little bit closer look at these beautiful cards tomorrow!!  They are so pretty in person, I may not give them up!!  LOL  In the meantime, get those In Color orders into the system.  You don't want to miss out on your chances to get your stash before they run out!!

 

Hugs, . . .