Yard Art and Coasters

Yard Art with the Big Shot!!

One of the WOW demonstrations at the San Antonio Regional featured yard art using roof flashing from the Hardware store and the Big Shot.  I finally gave it a try and love the results.  I used the Elegant Bird Die (cut 2 birds, 2 wings) from the Occasions Mini item 125593 for $21.95 available until April 30th.  Roof flashing is very sharp, but after cutting with the die the sharp edges are easier to manage. 

I then embossed the bird body with the Vintage wallpaper embossing folder and the wings with the Houndstooth embossing folder.  Make sure to emboss one body and wing, then turn the opposite direction so your embossing is on the correct side of your next body and wing!

I then attached the wings with our silver brads to the body, added a Tempting turquoise brad and a bit of  hemp twine.  Super simple, who knew embossing folders would work on soft metal!!  I can't wait to try this with the Beautiful Butterflies die!!  These would work well in a garden, patio pot or hanging in a hanging pot.

Cool Summer Coasters  

Coasters were one of the first items I stamped when I discovered Stampin' Up in 2005.  My Upline Laura used "Frosty" long ago retired to make adorable coasters for the Holidays.
 
When I first saw this stamp set Flower Fest (122280) $19.95 clearmount), I envisioned coasters.  Flower Fest is retiring the end of May so I need to ink it up fast!!  The line images are stamped with black stazon ink.  Images are colored with our Blender pens and Stampin' pastels.  The Stampin' Pastels chalks are on the retired list so grab them quick!!  Item 120962, $24.95.  After coloring , I then sprayed the finished coaster with clear acrylic spray to set the color.  The bottoms have 4 felt cushions to keep the coaster from scratching surfaces.  Imagine making you own tiles for emtertaining, gifts or even a back splash!! 

Flower Fest is very versatile and the images fit five of our punches.  Butterfly, 5-Petal, Fancy Flower, 1 3/8 circle and 2 38/8 scallop circle.  I will post a card using the stamps and punches later this week.  Check the retired lists on my website to puchase retiring items.  Several punches are retiring, one of them the Butterfly punch!!!  Item 119848 $16.95.  Place your order online for the latest availability of retiring items.  www.kathyswanson.stampinup.net

Have a Great week!!