My name is Jini Merck and I'm a Stampin' Up! Independent Demonstrator. I love being a Stampin’ Up! demonstrator, not only do I get to be creative every day, I also get to be a creative coach, offering fresh project ideas and encouragement to my customers and friends.
For me, helping someone create that perfect project for a special occasion is the best feeling in the entire world. After all, creating cards, scrapbook pages, and gift items is about more than just stamps and ink—it’s about sharing a part of yourself with the people in your life.
I live in Clarkesville which is in the North Georgia Mountains with my husband and two children. Although my family keeps me busy I enjoy the creativity of stamping and crafts and the fellowship stamping brings into my life. Spending time creativing cards and gifts for friends and family has been one of my favorite hobbies over the years.
I’m a bit later sharing with you today, but it’s been rather crazy day with lots of appointments. I didn’t want to miss sharing these fun Halloween cards tho since the holiday is right around the corner.
The Them Bones Suite Collection (162222) is filled with fun images, dies, paper, and glow in the dark elements! Yes, GLOW in the dark, wow can that not be fun to create with? And whether you choose a few items from the collection or get the suite you’re sure to be able to create lots of fun items for your little ghosts and goblins this fall. Check out these fun cards using this suite.
Color has been added to the embossed image and the edges of the layers with our Blending Brushes (153611). We’ve got two great sizes to choose from or you can even use our Sponge Daubers (133773) for smaller areas if you want a bit more control. Both are great for techniques like this depending on the look you desire. And this next card uses our Rose Gold Specialty Paper (159139) for a fun little shine.
Clever, right? This set of dies has 3 different shapes that are wonderful for all kinds of projects, even coffins! The bit of Black & White Gingham Ribbon (156485) has been colored using our Stampin’ Blends to coordinate with the project.
Fun? While the Suite is not available currently it will be back on the 25th or around then giving you plenty of time to get ready. And of course, you can always order the items separately since the 10% is for the Bag of Bones Bundle (162219) found in the Suite.
Shop at my Online Store and use Host Code VPZ67VCD with a product order of $50 or more and receive a FREE Gift from me, my Abundant Beauty Step It Up Card Class!
It’s Friday and that means a tutorial. This week I needed a birthday card for a friend who loves music and so I thought this card would be perfect for them. Bright and cheerful with a retro feel to it.. and it pops up to stand on their mantel too.
I originally designed this back in August and had thought about using it as a BackStage swap too, but then decided against it. You’re going to love the NEW Deckled Circle Dies (162286) they come in tons of sizes!
It has a nice little signature panel on the back that pulls in the music too.
Want to see how I made this card? I’ve whipped up a video tutorial when I was creating it and of course a PDF tutorial for you too. I’m just loving this pattern from the Delightfully Eclectic Designer Series Paper stack (161640) it’s designed to have patterns that work with all kinds of our stamp sets.
Shop at my Online Store and use Host Code VPZ67VCD with a product order of $50 or more and receive a FREE Gift from me, my Abundant Beauty Step It Up Card Class!
As promised yesterday today’s cards have fun little animals on them and I’m going to start with the Little Monkey Bundle (161379) that has been so popular.
This bundle not only has cute little images it also has a fun little punch that goes with it making it very popular. This card uses the punch to build interest for your projects.
Done in Real Red and Basic Black that is a classic combo and a natural for this card. The dots in the background were created with the Dots & Spots Dies (159164). Did you know this type of card is built by starting with a square in the center and simply adding strips of card stock to create the shutter look? Yep, it’s that simple!
So what do you think? Great swaps? I love to be inspired and share with everyone at Stampin’ Up! events. Sharing cards with each other also allows me to make new friends and meet folks from all over the world and who would love that?
Shop at my Online Store and use Host Code VPZ67VCD with a product order of $50 or more and receive a FREE Gift from me, my Abundant Beauty Step It Up Card Class!
The Medley Mix Stamp Set (162281) is one of those that can be easy to miss in our Mini, but it’s one you’ll want to be sure to look at if you love the Inked & Tiled Bundle (161168) from the Annual Catalog as it uses the Inked & Tiled Punch Pack.
This first card teams up this lovely set with it’s all occasions sentiments with the die cut image from the Gorgeously Made Dies.
The Crushed Curry, Fresh Freesia, and Orchid Oasis combination is quite striking. And how about the Just My Type stamp set (161614) used for this next card?
This one is great because since it uses the Earthen Textures Bundle (161514) and other products from the Suite it has a more southwestern or masculine feel to it. The sentiment comes from the Seasonal Branches stamp set (161358) which is a great set too for nature lovers as it can be used year round with the different season.
Whew! Lots of great swaps. I hope you enjoyed today’s post stop back by tomorrow when I’ll be sharing some fun animal cards with you that I received in my swaps!
Shop at my Online Store and use Host Code VPZ67VCD with a product order of $50 or more and receive a FREE Gift from me, my Abundant Beauty Step It Up Card Class!
When I returned from Las Vegas I told you I’d share some of the swaps I received while I was at the event. It has taken me a bit to get back to full steam with my computer but I think I’ve finally have gotten back on track. While I have a love hate relationship with technology I just don’t think about how much I use my laptop and something like this reminds my just how much easier technology can make life. How about you, feel the same way?
On to the fun stuff, my swaps. I just love creating and sharing at these events. Everyone has such a different style and ideas while using the same products. It’s always fun to see what folks are doing and I find I always learn something that I can share with you! So I’m going to start with this fun fold card.
Here is another card that uses Designer Series Paper as it’s focus, this time the Zoo Crew Designer Series Paper (161304) with it’s fun little animals and black and white patterns.
And for my final swap today this fun little card using the Crafting for You Bundle (161226) and our Take Your Pick Tool (144107/150006).
Did you know that our Tool has a NEW Crafters Tip option? The Take Your Pick Crafters Tip (144107) option gives you 4 more fun options to choose from when using the tool. This card use the rotary perforating tip to create the grid background for the card and also the dotted line on the sentiment panel. How fun is that?
I always love the swap boards at our events too – tons of sharing going on. I’ll continue sharing more swaps with you over the coming weeks.
Speaking of BackStage I thought I’d share some pictures of the event too. I’ve never been to Las Vegas and was fascinated by the view out my window and the landscape below. And of course the airport itself was so colorful with the slot machines all around.
My husband Larry has thought about going with me but decided not due to his surgery earlier this summer. So I took full advantage of walking around and checking out everything at the Red Rock Resort including some time at the lovely pools! For some reason he didn’t think I was working when I sent him this picture. LOL!
And of course once the festivities began the evening before the conference it was non stop. We checked in on Thursday and got a lovely swag bag that included our agenda and more along with a photo of me, at our fun photo booth.
Our welcome Sweets & Swaps event was by the pool that night
And come to find out the fun neon sign we saw as we walked in contains a sweet little surprise for us too. We handed in our ticket and
we received a pair of sunglasses with a fun little case as gift that was perfect for around the pool or to wear around town.
During breakfast one morning I sat with a lovely group of ladies who had made some of the cutest gifts. Check out this adorable Sticky Note Pad holder – perfect for the event. Cute, right?
When the conference started Thursday we had some wonderful training with breakout sessions and speakers.
As we wrapped up the conference Saturday afternoon, Stampin’ Up! surprised us with a live performance to announce the last evenings experience!
A bus trip to the The Mirage for the Beatles show!!!
I’ve never seen Cirque De Soleil before and what a experience for the senses! It was so cool watching the wave of #BackStage Coastal Cabana LOVE t-shirts walking through The Mirage and filling the seats.
And the reactions were pretty funny from the folks when we got back to the Red Rock resort as to what they thought the group was all about.
Stop back by tomorrow when I’ll be sharing some more swaps with you.
And of course if you have any questions or help with the Online Store please let me know. I’m here to help.
Remember Suites may be on back order but you can order things individually too since it might be just one item that is not available.
Shop at my Online Store and use Host Code VPZ67VCD with a product order of $50 or more and receive a FREE Gift from me, my Abundant Beauty Step It Up Card Class!
Sign up today and Join me for my September Card Class
You’ll make 3 cards with envelopes (3 designs) Cards are clean simple designs – choose your sentiments
Class Fee $15 or free with a minimum order at class
PDF & Videos (only) just $10
Thursday, September 28th or Saturday, September 30th at 10 am – Noon
RSVP by Monday, 9/18
Bring a NEW stamping friend and get to make a 2nd set for FREE!
My Card Classes are FREE – Simply place a qualifying minimum purchase during class. When giving your RSVP for the live event simply hold your place with a credit card, cash, or check. The Class Fee will be applied to your order the day of the event.
Shop at my Online Store and use Host Code VPZ67VCD with a product order of $50 or more and receive a FREE Gift from me, my Abundant Beauty Step It Up Card Class!
Today I’m going to share with you my PDF file showing all the wonderful Designer Series Paper that can be found in the Holiday Mini. This chart not only has the Paper and colors list but also includes the item # and price for your easy reference.
2023 September – December Designer Series Paper Chart PDF
I actually print this PDF out twice. The first one I place post on my paper tub so I can see it easily. The second copy I cut apart and tape it to the package of Designer Series Paper itself. This copy is much larger than the included labeling making it quick and easy to see. I can also make notes or highlight the color card stock that I like to use with this pack so I can order more easily too.
How do you organize your paper?
NEW Kit Collection – Christmas Everywhere Kit
A fun contemporary card kit for your holiday cards!
Share the joy of Christmas with everyone, everywhere with the Christmas Everywhere Kit! Featuring trees from around the world, this kit comes with everything you need to quickly create 9 cards—3 each of 3 designs—so you can send the special people in your life warm Christmas wishes wherever they are!
Enough supplies to create 9 cards—3 each of 3 designs
9 coordinating envelopes
Christmas Everywhere photopolymer stamp set
Clear stamp block
One Lost Lagoon Ink Spot
Printed card bases, printed die-cut labels and images with red glitter, adhesive, and a clear block
Finished card size: 5-1/2″ x 4-1/4″
Coordinating colors: Granny Apple Green, Lost Lagoon, Pecan Pie, Pretty Peacock, Real Red
Our kit collection is a great way to craft since everything you need is included in the kit. There is even a printed instruction sheet and video!
Our kit collection kits also make great gifts since they include everything you need. So why not share your love of paper crafting with friends and gift them a creative experience this holiday season?
I’m here to help!
Holiday Catalog update: Please note that some of our products have been so popular they are already in back order. If you would like me to notify you when an item you are interested in returns just let me know. I can even place the order for you if you’d like when it becomes available so you don’t miss out.
Remember, when a Suite is on back order that doesn’t mean every thing isn’t available it might be just one item. Simply enter each item individually, the Bundle receives the 10% discount whether it is ordered in the Suite or as a Bundle.
Shop at my Online Store and use Host Code VPZ67VCD with a product order of $50 or more and receive a FREE Gift from me, my Abundant Beauty Step It Up Card Class!
Yes! It’s live now! And you’re going to LOVE the new product options available for this fall and your holiday crafting needs. I know my wish list is long. If you haven’t already seen the catalog, just click on the image below. You’re going to LOVE it! And know when you place an order with me using the Host Code you’ll get a FREE Class as a Thank You from me!
If you’re a regular customer of mine and haven’t received your Holiday Mini Catalog in the mail yet, please drop me an email to StampwithJini@gmail.com so I can resend you one or you can pick one up if you are local.
Catalog Organizational Items
As you know before I really get crafting I find a few organizational items helpful. I’ve been doing these now for years and you’ve given me wonderful feedback about liking them. So if you’ve missed past catalog organizational items, you can click on the Organization link in the side bar to find all my past Organizational items simply look for the catalog you need.
Die Case Inserts
And so that you can get those Dies on the shelf with your other cases, here is my Die Case Inserts for the new 2023 Mini Catalog. If you haven’t used these before you’ll find the ones for the 2023 Annual Catalog HERE. And if you need others you can find them under Organization section.
Love my organizational idea? What now? Simply print the PDF onto Basic White Card stock (159276) and trim on lines. Then insert into one of our Standard Stamp Cases (119105). And add a magnetic sheet (I use vent covers I find at the hardware store) to the inside using our Tear & Tape (138995). Got a big set? Add the sheet to the front and back covers to hold more! Yes it’s that easy.
I’ll be sharing my Designer Series Paper card stock color reference PDF tomorrow so stop back by It’s – a quick and easy reference for your ordering and crafting needs.
Shop at my Online Store and use Host Code VPZ67VCD with a product order of $50 or more and receive a FREE Gift from me, my Abundant Beauty Step It Up Card Class!
It’s here and you’re going to love the NEW products found in our September – December Mini Catalog.
Limited Release Paper!!!
Surprise, surprise! We’re offering a special release of five beautiful new Designer Series Paper options! These papers include fabulous holiday prints, gorgeous seasonal styles, and some spectacular timeless designs.
Fine print:
Order starts September 6th for these paper and are while supplies last
Love the new Mini and want it all? Got a big Shopping List? Why not get the most awesome Kit in the Catalog!!! – Get the Starter Kit …that’s up to a $125+ value!
I would love to have you as a part of my Team, The Blue Mountain Stampers! You can enjoy a discount on your favorite products, and enjoy the benefits of being part of a group that will love and support you no matter your goals!
There is no obligation – so why not give it a try? And did you know that you can use your Host Benefits towards your Kit when you join? Let’s set up a time for you and your friends to gather and create!
Join right away and get your discount on your shopping list and get the opportunity to earn new products and earn Stampin’ Rewards too!
Shop at my Online Store and use Host Code VPZ67VCD with a product order of $50 or more and receive a FREE Gift from me, my Abundant Beauty Step It Up Card Class!
