High Hopes Stamps

Challenge 126: Pink, Pink, and more Pink

2012-01-31T07:00:00.003-05:00

Hello High Hopes fans!

We loved your Valentine's Day/Love cards from the last challenge!

But there's only one winner...

Congratulations, Lorraine! Please email me at stampandcreate@bellsouth.net with your choice of 1 free High Hopes stamp!!

We are being hosted this week by the fabulous and adorable Anna!! Her challenge is:

Pink, Pink, and more Pink!!

That's right, let's see a lot of PINK on your cards/projects this week.

On lucky participant will win 1 Free High Hopes Stamp.

Just remember that you MUST use a High Hopes stamp to be entered into the challenge.

If you are in need of a High Hopes stamp, check out our Diva stores:

Lacey Stephens - Stamp and Create based out of the US

Nikki Fairbairn - Bunny Zoe's Crafts based out of the UK/Europe

Amy Wegener - Stampin' Stuff based out of Australia

High Hopes Website

Now let's check out the wonderful Diva's Pink samples for your inspiration...

Anna

Kristine

Jeanne

Karen

Sirpa

Alex.

Lacey

Tina

Andrea

Tanya

Now it's your turn!!

The challenge runs through Feb 6th at 7pm EST.

Challenge 125: Valentine's Day?Love

2012-01-24T07:00:00.003-05:00

Hello High Hopes Fans!!

We are back this week with a new challenge!!

Please note: this challenge is only open for 1 week this time.

But first, the winner of the Winter Wonderland Challenge is:

Congratulations, Janine B! Please email me with your choice of 3 free High Hopes Stamps.

Here is her gorgeous card using Hope for Peace Snowy...

Tanya is our hostess this week and her challenge is:

Valentine's Day/Love

One lucky participant will win 1 free High Hopes stamp.

Just remember that you MUST use a High Hopes Stamp on your card or project to be entered into the challenge.

If you are in need of a High Hopes stamp, check out our Diva stores:

Lacey Stephens - Stamp and Create based out of the US

Nikki Fairbairn - Bunny Zoe's Crafts based out of the UK/Europe

Amy Wegener - Stampin' Stuff based out of Australia

High Hopes Website

And let's check out the wonderful Diva projects this week...

Tanya using Love Letter Monkey

Kristine using Alex and Andy Mouse

Tina using Buggy Stack

(The back of Tina's)

Karen using Froggy Gift

Sirpa using Sow Soo-eet Piggy

(This stamp is also part of a set that is on sale this month here)

Alex. using Toad-ally in Love

Lacey using Kitty's Flutter Friends and Myron Monkey's Heart Balloon

Andrea using Love Letter sentiment and Love Letter Mailbox

Jeanne using No Bones Doggy

Anna using Toad-ally in Love

Now it's your turn!

This challenge runs through 7pm EST Monday, January 30th.

Easy Treat Topper Tutorial

2012-01-17T07:00:00.002-05:00

Hello High Hopes Fans!!

Click here for our current challenge.

We will be posting the winners of our Facebook Challenge soon on our Facebook Page.

Make sure to look out for it.

We are back this week with a Tutorial Tuesday!

This week it's my (Lacey's) turn to create a tutorial. I have a head cold, so I'm hoping my tutorial makes sense with my stuffed up head!! LOL

With Valentine's Day around the corner, I thought it would be nice to show a quick and easy Valentine's Day treat idea. I also have some links to other tutorials that would work great for Valentine's Day at the end of this post.

So here is my Easy Treat Topper Tutorial (say that 5 times fast)...

Suppies:

~ Colored image (I cut mine out since it was taller than the circles I wanted to use)

~ Die cut shape for the base of the topper - the width of the treat bags (I had to re-cut my piece since I cut it the wrong way - oops)

~ Treat Bags (you can use any type - I have 3 different ones shown in the photo above - you can even reuse bags that stamps come in, just make sure to use individually wrapped candy since the bag isn't new)

~ Die-Cut Shapes to mount behind the image

~ Glue or adhesive

1. Attach the die-cut pieces together

2. Score the base piece in half (I ended up using a different piece later in the tutorial when I realized this one was too small)...

3. Attach the circle to the base piece. You will attach half of the top piece to the center fold of the base piece...

See how the right half of the circle is attached to the base at the fold?

4. Attach the image to the top piece...

You can see the the new piece I used in the top right corner above. The base piece (the one with the hearts in my photo) needs to be as wide as the treat bag.

5. Add adhesive to the front and back of the filled treat bag and attach to the inside of the topper - aligning it with the scored center...

And here you go!

You can also have your kids color the images!!

Here are some other Treat ideas that would be great for Valentine's Day gifts...

Cupcake Topper

Chocolate Bar Slider

Basket filled with Treats

Mini Treat Bags

Chocolate Bar Wrapper

Now it's your turn!! Get stamping!!

Challenge 124: Winter Wonderland

2012-01-10T07:00:00.005-05:00

Hello High Hopes Fans!!

If you are a fan of ours on Facebook, then you might already know that we have some exciting news! But for those of you who are not, we have some wonderful (and somewhat sad) news to share!!

After a lot of prayer and consideration, High Hopes owner Tina and her daughter Bethany have sold the business to our very own Diva Karen and her husband Guy!!

For years Bethany put her plans and education on the back burner so that she could help work and grow High Hopes with her mother. But the time has come for her to put her focus back to her education and family.

This is what Tina posted on facebook...

Wishing all our friends and family the Happiest of New Years! We are excited to share the news that High Hopes Rubber Stamps has new Owners, Guy and Karen. Many of you know Karen, and know she has been a High Hopes "Diva" for many years now. She has been very dedicated to the line and instrumental in it's success as she has gone above and beyond the call of duty to help promote HH and our artists. Guy brings with him a great sense of humor, a huge heart and understated charm. His knowledge of all things mechanical and his love of woodworking will be great assets to the company as they jump into this new adventure!

Bethany and I will continue on in support of the company as we both pursue other challenges and adventures as well. It's going to be exciting to watch High Hopes grow in the New Year, and to watch Guy and Karen realize all the joy that we had in getting to know our customers (friends), and in releasing the new art...and seeing the inspired creations that you all make using those stamps! May God Bless you all in the New Year!~ and we hope you keep in touch with us as well!!~ XOXOXO~ Tina and Bethany

Although we are sad that Tina and Bethany's High Hope reign has ended, we are thrilled and excited to have Karen as our new "boss"!! And we can't wait to get to work with Guy as well!

We are also happy that Bethany will be able to focus her energy on her school, family, and future!! We will miss working with you so much, Bethany (*sniff, sniff*), but we wish you the best with everything you do!!

Tina hasn't allowed us to say goodbye to her because....

she is now one of the High Hopes Divas!!

Yes, that's right - Tina will now have the time to actually use the stamps that she spent so much time developing!! We are so thrilled to be able to continue to work with Tina and look forward to her wonderful creations! :-)

And last, but definitely not least, we can't think of a better person to take over the reins of High Hopes than Karen and her husband! Karen has been part of the High Hopes family since as long as I can remember and she is a perfect fit to be the new owner!

Karen and Guy, we are so happy for you and will do everything we can to help you make High Hopes the best stamp company ever!!

To celebrate, we are having some candy over at our Facebook page!

If you are on facebook, come on over and join our group!

All of our new FB friends will be entered into a special candy!

And we will have a separate candy for all of our existing friends as well!

Won't you help us spread the word?

If your on facebook, would you mind mentioning our candy?!

We are finally back with a new challenge!! Have you missed us?

We have one more change here as well...

Beginning this week we are going to increase our challenges to 3 times per month.

The 4th week of the month will be a Tutorial Post.

The challenge before the Tutorial will be open for 2 weeks, but the rest of the challenges will only be open for 1 week - so more challenges means more chances to win!

Our new challenge is: Winter Wonderland

Let's see some sort of winter or snow related card or project.

Just remember that you MUST use a High Hopes image to be entered into the challenges.

If you are in need of a High Hopes stamp, check out our Diva stores:

Lacey Stephens - Stamp and Create based out of the US

Nikki Fairbairn - Bunny Zoe's Crafts based out of the UK/Europe

Amy Wegener - Stampin' Stuff based out of Australia

High Hopes Website

And now let's check out the fabulous Diva's cards...

Kristine using Havin' a Ball Snowman

Lacey using Homespun Hearts Snowy

Sarah using Beary Good Friends

Anna using Homespun Hearts Snowy

Sirpa using Snow Family

Alex. using Skating Mudzie

Tina using Moriah

Jeanne using Tractor

Now it's your turn!

The challenge runs through Jan 23rd.

January Monthly Sale

2012-01-02T18:46:00.011-05:00

Hello High Hopes Fans!!

We hope you all had a wonderful Holiday!

We have decided to push the next challenge back to next week so that the Divas can recover from the Holiday activities!!

But we are back with a new Monthly Special!!

This month, the sale price will be good through the end of January.

There are 2 sets available this month...

First up, we have a set of 11 Valentine unmounted Stamps illustrated by Laurie Furnell

for only $24.95 (CAD)

That's over 50% off!!

You can purchase this set here.

Here are more samples using a few of these stamps...

Next up is the Valenswine set...

This set includes the two main images, two accent stamps, and 3 sentiments

for only $13.95 CAD (unmounted set).

You can purchase the Valenswine Set here.

Here are these stamps on a few projects...

The sale prices are only available through High Hopes directly and are good through Jan 31st.

We'll be back next week with the challenges.

More Holiday Inspiration!

2011-12-27T07:00:00.000-05:00

Hello High Hopes Fans!!

We hope you all had a lovely Christmas and Boxing Day (for our European friends)!

As a reminder, we are not having any new Challenges until Jan 3rd.

In the mean time, we are back this week with a little more holiday inspiration from a few of our lovely Design Divas!!

Heidi using Bearly Swooshin...

Kristine using Christmas Joy Snowy

Merry Christmas!!

2011-12-25T08:36:00.002-05:00

Hello High Hopes friends!

It's Lacey here and I wanted to wish you all a wonderful Christmas!! The Divas and I are so thankful for all of you who come here each and every week to see our cards and participate in our Challenges. You are such an inspiration to us and we are so happy to get to play along with you every week!

Today I have another banner I created using some of the High Hopes Santas...

We had to move our Screen to the dining room to make room for the Christmas Tree in the Family Room so this is kind of in a tight spot.

Here are close ups of the flags with stamps...

And here's the final banner again...

Merry Christmas to all of you from all of us!!

Holiday Inspiration!

2011-12-20T07:00:00.000-05:00

Hello High Hopes Fans!

As a reminder, we are taking a break for a few weeks so the Divas can have a much needed rest!! We will be back on Jan 3rd with our next challenge.

But we are back this week with a little Holiday Inspiration!

Check out this adorable project by our lovely guest, Heidi...

We hope you are having a lovely Holiday and hope that you can spend some time relaxing and hanging out with family and friends!!

Numbers Challenge Winner and random inspriation

2011-12-13T11:03:00.006-05:00

Hello High Hopes Fans!

We are back this week with the winner of the Numbers Challenge.

Since that was our last challenge of the year, we are posting the winner today but we do not have a new challenge. The Design Divas are taking a few weeks off to enjoy the Holidays!

However, we will still have posts each week with random inspiration from the Divas -

I mean, even though we don't HAVE to make a card,

it's hard not to play with some High Hopes stamps, right?!

Ok, so the winner of the Numbers Challenge is:

Congratulations, Debby! Please email me at stampandcreate@bellsouth.net with your choice of 3 free High Hopes Stamps.

Debby is actually a former Diva and check out this amazing creation using

On Guard Oberto, The Thundering Rouge, and Banana Tree...

Oh my gosh, what a stunning card!!

Now here are a few cards from some of our lovely Divas...

Heidi using Merry Mouse...

Sirpa using Fishing Santa...

Kristine using Winter Fun Monkey...

We also have some inspiration from Lacey's Kids with cards they created for a new neighbor:

Ansley - 9 years old, using Little Missy...

Ryan - 7 years old, using Warm Wishes...

Happy stamping!!

Meet the Divas: Jeanne & Anna

2011-12-06T07:00:00.002-05:00

Hello High Hopes Fans!

Click here for the current challenge.

It's time for a new Meet the Diva's!

This week we are heading down to the Loan Star State of Texas (USA)!

We have both the hilarious Jeanne Streiff and the "Sweet Miss Daisy" Anna Wight.

First up is Jeanne...

http://inkypaws.blogs.splitcoaststampers.com/

1)How long have you been crafting? Did you start as a child? Did someone inspire your creativity?

I’ve been coloring since I picked up my first crayon.

2) When did you buy your first stamp? What were the circumstances surrounding that purchase?

Oh gosh, a long time ago. I started buying stamps regularly in 2005 though after going to a home party.

3) What is your favorite stamping medium? Waterproof ink, Embossing Ink/powder? Glitter?

Most of the time I stamp and color with markers. I use Momento inks and Neenah paper.

4) When in your local stamp shoppe or online stamping store, what is your guilty pleasure that you end up buying although you know you already have tons of? Ribbons/Papers/Inks/Pens... etc.?

Stamps… ;)

5) What coloring medium do you prefer? Prisma's, Tombow's, or Copic's? Other?

I use Shinhan Touch Twin markers. They are alcohol based and blend beautifully.

6) Future goals of things you want to learn to use with your stamping... or try.. .be it a technique or submitting to a magazine, or teaching classes, starting your own shoppe...etc..

I’d like to get back to drawing again. It’s been a while and I’ve missed it.

7) Other crafting you do? Job? Hobbies or interests?

I’ve very luck in that my jobs are all craft related. I coordinate artistic teams for Shinhan Art Materials (Touch Twin markers and other fine art supplies), The {Stamps} of Life and Discount Cardstock.com. On my off time I watch bunches of movies and read.

8) Share with us your favorite project, and the techniques you used.

- Cuuuute image, marker coloring, Flower Soft and fun twine!

Here are some more of Jeanne's adorable cards...

And now it's time for the fabulous "Sweet Miss Daisy" - Anna Wight...

http://sweetmissdaisy.typepad.com/

1)How long have you been crafting? Did you start as a child? Did someone inspire your creativity?
My family is very crafty, and some of my oldest memories are of me and Mom coloring in coloring books at Grandma's house. Mom is a wonderful quilter, and Dad is very handy with wood, construction, and tying flies for fishing! I think just about everyone in my family does something crafty.

2) When did you buy your first stamp? What were the circumstances surrounding that purchase?

It was the summer of 1993, in a little shop in Florence, Oregon. I remember because I worked at the Girl Scout camp near there during the summer, and there was a little shop in town that always had the cutest things! The stamp is from the line of Richard Scarry images that Penny Black licensed that year. I still own it, and am still trying to collect images from the line. Help a girl out!? *grin*

3) What is your favorite stamping medium? Waterproof ink, Embossing Ink/powder? Glitter?

I think my favorite is just coloring images. Watercoloring, markers, pencils ... love it all! I really do love to stamp in black StazOn ink and watercolor images using a variety of watercoloring products. I also have a fondness for adding glitter to just about everything. Doesn't everyone?

4) When in your local stamp shoppe or online stamping store, what is your guilty pleasure that you end up buying although you know you already have tons of?

Ribbons/Papers/Inks/Pens... etc.?

Designer paper. Ribbon, string, twine, jute. Coloring tools. Buttons. Dies. GLITTER! ...I don't have just one guilty pleasure, it seems!

5) Future goals of things you want to learn to use with your stamping... or try.. .be it a technique or submitting to a magazine, or teaching classes, starting your own shoppe...etc..

I've done a lot of things as a stamper. I love the people I've met through this craft, and am so grateful for all the opportunities that have come my way. I would love to try more "techniques", but don't always have the patience to deal with the "mess" of techniques. I tend to do most of my work in about 24" of space, or less. There's not a lot of room for "mess", along with the MESS! Especially since I am a multitasking crafter, and always have several projects going at any given time.

6) Other crafting you do? Job? Hobbies or interests?

I like to sew, and I love photography. I find inspiration in colors, and nature. I love the country/primitive style, and love to add a bit of it to most everything I do.

7) Share with us your favorite project, and the techniques you used.

I think my all-time favorite High Hopes project was the "old goat" card. I stamped the image in black StazOn ink, and painted it with liquid re-inkers. I also really love the card I made using the High Hopes lamb. I used flock to give the lamb texture, and was just delighted with the results! And I really love the Northwoods Stack image, so this card stands out as a favorite of mine, as well.

Make sure to go check out Jeanne's and Anna's blogs!

We will be back next week with the winner of the Numbers Challenge.

There is still plenty of time to enter if you would like to play along!

Happy stamping!

December Monthly Special

2011-12-01T07:00:00.001-05:00

Hello High Hopes Fans!!

Welcome to our final sale of 2011!

We wanted it to be HUGE... we wanted it to be HOT.. we wanted it to be irresistible... and so it had to be a sale featuring our Dragons!

All unmounted and cling foam mounted Dragon stamps are on sale for 25% off for the first week of December.

To see the Dragon's on sale (including some sayings, and Dragonfly's) just go to the High Hopes website and put "Dragon" in the search box.... or click here.

There are 52 images on 6 pages.

When you are done shopping, be sure to put the special sale code DECSALE in the

comments box.

We will re-invoice you before billing to adjust your total down to reflect the special sale price.

The sale runs Dec 1-7th

You won't want to miss this one... so don't be dragin' your feet! It's a great time to stock up on some of your favorite Dustin Pike and Crissy Armstrong Dragons!

From all of us at High Hopes Rubber Stamps,

we wish you a very Merry Christmas and a New Year filled with Peace, Love, and Health!

Here are some cards using some of the Dragons on sale created by current and past Divas...

Challenge 123: Numbers

2011-11-29T07:00:00.004-05:00

Hello High Hopes Fans!!

Thank you all for playing along with the Snowflakes Challenges!

The random winner of 3 Free High Hopes Stamps is:

Congratulations, Alie! Please email me at stampandcreate@bellsouth.net with your choice of 3 stamps and your mailing address.

Here is her fabulous card using Hockey Skates...

The next challenge is going to be our last challenge of the year!

This challenge is being hosted by Sarah:

Numbers

Add numbers to your card or make a card for a specific date.

If you don't have a number on your card, please state what "date" the card is for.

Just remember that you MUST use a High Hopes Stamp on your card to enter the challenge.

If you are in need of a High Hopes stamp, check out our Diva stores:

Lacey Stephens - Stamp and Create based out of the US

Nikki Fairbairn - Bunny Zoe's Crafts based out of the UK/Europe

Amy Wegener - Stampin' Stuff based out of Australia

High Hopes Website

And now let's check out the fabulous Diva's cards...

Sarah using Girl Binky Monkey

Kristine using Buddy's Birthday Heart Collage

Heidi using Mudzie's Gift

Tanya using Surfer Dude Dudley

Karen using Shelbert

Sirpa using Skiing Santa

Alex. using Soccer Star

Anna using Robo-Dog

Jeanne using Shelbert

Andrea using Peeking Baby bunny

Lacey using Tropical Santa

And now it's your turn!

This challenge runs through Dec 12th.

Happy Thanksgiving!!

2011-11-24T06:45:00.000-05:00

Hello High Hopes Fans!!

Click here for our current challenge.

We want to wish all of our American Fans a Happy Thanksgiving!

And to all of our fans (even those outside of the US), we want you to know how much that we are thankful for YOU...our fans, customers, and challenge participants.

It's because of you that we continue to have releases and want to create!

Lacey here and to celebrate the Thanksgiving Holiday, I made this fun Banner!

You might remember the Halloween Banner I created as well.

Here are some close ups of the flags with stamped images...

And Tom's Plea

I love that High Hopes carries so many stamps that coordinate so well together!

Happy Thanksgiving...and Happy stamping!!

We will be back on Tuesday with a new challenge.

Shrink Film Stick Pin Tutorial by Karen

2011-11-22T05:00:00.000-05:00

Hello High Hopes Fans!!

Click here for our current challenge.

It is Tutorial Tuesday Time!!

This week Karen has a fun and creative tutorial on how she creates adorable custom stick pins using High Hopes Stamps and Shrink Film.

The instructions are within the picture, so you can click on the picture to get a large view...

How cool is that?!

Stamps used: Larry's Lovely Poppy, DH Posey, and Daisy Button

We will be back next week with another Challenge!

Happy stamping!

Challenge 122: Snowflakes

2011-11-15T07:00:00.005-05:00

Hello High Hopes Fans!!

We loved all of the entries for the Anything Goes Challenge!!

Thank you so much for playing along!!

The random winner is:

Congratulations, Riina! Please email me at stampandcreate@bellsouth.net with your mailing address and choice of 3 Free High Hopes Stamps!

Here is her adorable card using Birdies Friend Snowlady...

We are back this week with a new Challenge!!

Are you ready for winter yet? Well it's coming, because today's new challenge is:

Snowflakes

You can use an image with a snowflake, papers with snowflakes, punched or diecut snowflakes...just as long as there is some sort of snowflake on your project!

Just remember that you MUST use a High Hopes stamp on your card to be entered into the challenge!

If you are in need of a High Hopes stamp, check out our Diva stores:

Lacey Stephens - Stamp and Create based out of the US

Nikki Fairbairn - Bunny Zoe's Crafts based out of the UK/Europe

Amy Wegener - Stampin' Stuff based out of Australia

High Hopes Website

Now here are the awesome Design Divas with their samples for your inspiration...

Heidi using Sitting Snowy with Flake
Karen using Hope for Peace Snowy
Sirpa using Snow Family
Lacey using Christmas Joy Snowy
Kristine using Ski Bum Snowy
Tanya using Homespun Hearts Snowy

Jeanne using Christmas Joy Snowy

Andrea using Cup of Cheer

Sarah using Santa's List

Now it's your turn!!

The challenge runs through 9pm EST November 28th.

Design Team Showcase - Meet the Artists

2011-11-07T22:07:00.007-05:00

Hello High Hopes Fans!!

Click here for our Current Challenge

Well it's time for another "Meet the Divas".

However, this time we are going to showcase the Artists of High Hopes Rubber Stamps!

First up is the fabulous "Sir Dustin"...

Dustin Pike

http://dustinpike.blogspot.com/

I was born and raised in Utah spending almost all of my childhood drawing even when I was supposed to be doing schoolwork. In 1992 I married my best friend and we have been happily married since, I have 4 wonderful children, though I am my wife's biggest kid. I joined the USAF to work in Commercial art, but ended up an Ammo troop instead spending 3 yrs in Germany. Came back to the states to Hill AFB in Utah and have been here since. I am an avid Disneyland fan. I love Disneyland almost to the point it's unhealthy... My wife talks about intervention...maybe she's not joking... I think my style is influenced by Disney as well as older Hannha Barbera cartoons and anyhting Jim Henson has done mainly Fraggle Rock and other muppet related stuff. I am excited to be able to move my scribbles into the rubber stamp medium. I hope I can live up to the expectations I have with my how do I put it "fans"...

Dustin's images are so whimsical designs are so whimsical and fun.

His Dragons are favorites amongst the Divas and customers.

And so many of his designs are filled with quirky humor that sometimes make you say "huh?"

And now we have the talented Laurie Furnell...

Laurie Furnell

http://lauriefurnell.blogspot.com/

I was born in into an artsy, crafty family. My Mom & Dad was always working on some sort of art project...So, I am a self taught artist that comes by my talent naturally. From the time I was little, I loved to draw and color. My mom use to call me her "Doodlebug" because no piece of paper was safe if I had a pencil in my hand. To me, there was no better gift than a pad of clean white paper and a new box of crayons. I am now married ( 35 years this year...yeah!) to a wonderful guy. We have two grown children, and three grandchildren. My life revolves around my family, the gospel of Jesus Christ and my artwork. I love to read fantasy adventure books ( when I have time...LOL) cook, garden and spend time with my family. Our favorite place to vacation is Disney World...I do love Mickey! I guess I'm still a kid at heart. I am so excited about this new adventure in stamping...to be working with High Hopes Rubber Stamps is like a dream come true... I have a whimsical, folksy style, something that fits

perfectly with the High Hopes stamps. I look forward to creating some new and wonderful art for High Hopes in the future and can't wait to see what all you talented stampers can do with my art today...Happy Stamping!

Laurie's designs are filled with "Country" flair. Her animals are adorable and "fluffy", and many of her images bring you closer to nature...

Laurie also has a wide collection of accent and border images that coordinate with her designs...

We are so happy to have these lovely artist working with our team!!

Challenge 121: Anything High Hopes Goes

2011-11-01T07:00:00.005-04:00

Hello High Hopes Fans!!

This is the 2nd post for today.

Make sure to scroll down to see the new Monthly Special sale -

25% off Fairytale designs (through Nov 7th).

Thank you for those who entered the Ribbons, Lace, or Twine Challenge.

The random winner is:

Congratulations, Renae! Please email me at stampandcreate@bellsouth.net with your choice of 3 free stamps and your mailing address.

Here is her lovely card using Mooshie Steals a Kiss...

Our new Challenge is one of our most popular challenges:

Anything High Hopes Goes!!

That's right, as long as you have a High Hopes stamp on your project, any card/project/scrapbook page, etc will do!!

Just remember you MUST use a High Hopes stamp to enter the challenge!!

The prize is 3 free High Hopes Stamps of your choice!!

If you are in need of some High Hopes stamps, why not check out the Diva's Stores:

Lacey Stephens - Stamp and Create based out of the US

Nikki Fairbairn - Bunny Zoe's Crafts based out of the UK/Europe

Amy Wegener - Stampin' Stuff based out of Australia

High Hopes Website

Let's check out the awesome Design Diva's samples for your inspiration...

Heidi using Christmas Joy Snowy

Karen using LG. Lion and Lamb

Alex.

Kristine using Gingerbread Friends

Tanya using Peeking Ginger

Sirpa using Woodland Santa

Lacey using Homespun Hearts Snowy

Jeanne using Sm Chris Mouse

Anna using Christmas Joy Snowy

Andrea using Candi tooth fairy

Sarah using Emileigh's Cool Ride

Now it's your turn!!

The challenge runs through 9pm EST on Monday, Nov 13.

November Special

2011-11-01T05:00:00.000-04:00

Hello High Hopes Fans!!

It's the first of the month, so it's time for another Monthly Special...

Have you been dreaming of unicorns, castles,and finding your prince Charming?

Wishing you could escape the hum drum world of retail pricing all the while gathering up some great deals on Fairytale stamp images?

Well dream no more!

For the next 7 days, High Hopes Stamps is having a dream come true 20% off sale on a great selection of unmounted/cling foam mounted fairytale images.

To see this months sale collection, just go to the High Hopes website online catalog, and put in the search code NOVSALE to see the images (or click here)!

Or here's a list of the stamps on sale...

R-093 Fearless Knight

R-092 Castle

F-149 For My Princess

D-097 Lilly Pads

F-148 Duck Family

R-091 Reflecting Pond

G-232 Frog Prince

G-231 Leapfrogs

G-237 Kissy Face Frog

C-047 Kiss Me

K-042 Sitting Princess

H-181 Crown/Wand 2 Pc. Set

M-039 Rock Wall

S-104 Unicorn

H-180 Mushroom One

H-182 Mushroom Two

Here are some card samples from the Divas using some of the stamps on sale...

The sale runs through the 7th and is only available through the High Hopes Website.

Halloween Banner

2011-10-31T15:17:00.004-04:00

Happy Halloween from the High Hopes Divas!!

To celebrate today, I have a banner to share using some of the adorable

High Hopes Halloween Designs...

Standing Witchy Poo

Witchy Poo & Kitty Frame

Angel Bear Clown Costume

Sitting Witchy Bear with Pumpkin

Happy Halloween!!!

Tutorial Tuesday- how to mount and store your High Hopes stamps

2011-10-25T05:00:00.000-04:00

Hello High Hopes fans!!

Click here for our current challenge.

It's Tutorial Tuesday Time!!

The super sweet Andrea has created 2 Video Tutorials for you this week explaining how she mounts her bare-rubber stamps onto cling foam and how she stores her High Hopes stamps.

We hope these videos will help you and give you ideas on how to mount and store your High Hopes stamps!!...

Hi, Andrea here! I made some quick videos showing how I mount my plain red rubber stamps on ezmount and also how I store all the 'oodles and boodles' of unmounted stamps that I own. Sorry for the skinny video view- still learning how to use the new camera hee hee!

Thanks for watching!!

Challenge 120: Ribbon, Lace, or Twine

2011-10-18T05:00:00.002-04:00

Hello High Hopes Fans!!

We are back with a new challenge!!

But first, we loved your creative party favors last challenge! The winner of 3 free stamps is:

Congratulations, B Brassfield! Please email me at stampandcreate@bellsouth.net with your stamp choices and mailing address.

Here is her lovely Party Favor using a portion of Witchy Poo Stirring Brew...

So now it's time for a new challenge!!

The new challenge is:

Ribbon, Lace, or Twine

Just remember you MUST use a High Hopes stamp to enter the challenge.

The prize: 3 Free High Hopes Stamps of your choice!!

If you are in need of some High Hopes stamps, why not check out the Diva's Stores:

Lacey Stephens - Stamp and Create based out of the US

Nikki Fairbairn - Bunny Zoe's Crafts based out of the UK/Europe

Amy Wegener - Stampin' Stuff based out of Australia

High Hopes Website

Let's check out the awesome Design Diva's samples for your inspiration...

Heidi using Warm Wishes

Kristine using Homespun Hearts Snowy

Lacey (Cover) using Warm Wishes

Lacey Inside of card using: Gavin the Giving Dragon, Dragon's Finger 4pc Set with Round Balloon, and Party Dragon

Karen using Snowy Portrait, Cold Hand Script, and Cute Mitten Border

Sarah using Glowing Spirit Snowy

Anna using Moon Santa

Sirpa using Baking Ginger

Alex. using Standing Witchy Poo

Tanya using South Pole Pals

Andrea using Christmas Joy Snowy

Jeanne using Hope for Peace Snowy

Now it's your turn!!

Paperclay Ornament by Morgan

2011-10-12T21:42:00.002-04:00

Hello High Hopes Fans!!

Click here for our current challenge.

It's Tutorial Tuesday Time (although it's a little late).

This week we're doing something different!

I was so impressed with one of our challenge participant's projects that I asked permission to post it here on the blog.

Therefore, we have a special Guest, so to speak, this week!

For the "Home for the Holiday's" Challenge, Morgan created this fun ornament using Gingerbread House Heart Framed...

Isn't that amazing?! Looks just like a gingerbread cookie - but it's made out of paperclay.

Here is what Morgan has to say...

Materials:

air drying paperclay

Gingerbread House Heart by High Hopes rubber stamp

acrylic paints

drying retarder (or stain of your choice)

ribbon, felt & adhesive

This was a very simple ornament to make. I often prefer working with paperclay because you can use it instantly, it doesn't require conditioning like polymer clay, and there's no baking, no need for separate equipment, no toxicity etc.

To make this ornament, roll out a piece of paperclay on a baking sheet or non stick craft mat with a rolling pin. Use a firm pressure to stamp your image directly onto the clay. I used a mounted red rubber stamp from High Hopes and got a nice, deep, clean impression. I haven't tried acrylic stamps, so I can't vouch for the success of those, they don't tend to be as deep so it may now give as good as an impression.

With a sharp knife or scalpel cut around the outside of the stamped image, depending on the stamp you used you could use a cookie cutter for this step. Set aside to dry over night.

Once thoroughly dry the paperclay can be painted. I gave mine a base coat of a brown biscuit colour and then when that was dry, I mixed a little burnt umber paint with some drying retarder so that I could use it as a stain (which is primarily what ready bought stains are, a colour medium with a drying retarder so you have time to work with it). Using a soft cloth I rubbed it over the entire 'cookie' making sure it sat heavily in the stamped image to create a contrast.

Once dry I finished with a few coats of spray varnish, adding a ribbon at the back to hang it on the tree and covering the back with brown felt for neatness.

Morgan has some information about paperclay on her original post here. Make sure to check it out because she has some important tips.

Thank you so much, Morgan, for entering our challenges, knocking our socks off with your wonderful ornament, and for allowing us to post it here!!

Challenge 119: Party Favor

2011-10-04T05:00:00.005-04:00

Hello High Hopes Fans!!

We loved your Holiday cards last challenge!

The random winner of 3 stamps of your choice is...

Congratulations, Samantha!!

Please contact me at stampandcreate@bellsouth.net with your mailing address!!

Here is her fun her fun Woodland Santa card...

We are back with a new challenge!

This week's challenge is: Party Favor!!

The amazing Design Divas have mostly created Halloween treats, but you can create any type of party favor. Think Candy, Party, and lots of Treats!!

Just remember, you MUST use a High Hopes stamp on your project to be entered into the drawing for the prize: 3 Free High Hopes Stamps!

If you are in need of some High Hopes stamps, why not check out the Diva's Stores:

Lacey Stephens - Stamp and Create based out of the US

Nikki Fairbairn - Bunny Zoe's Crafts based out of the UK/Europe

Amy Wegener - Stampin' Stuff based out of Australia

High Hopes Website

And now here are the awesome DT samples for your inspiration...

Karen 1

Karen 2

(How cute it this?)

Kristine

Heidi

Anna

Jeanne

Sirpa

Alex.

(make sure to check out her blog for closer pictures of her fun Party setting including, menu, placemat, place-setting, drink straw, and coaster)

Lacey

(version of the treat back tutorial here)

Sarah

Tanya 1
Tanya 2

Andrea

Many of the stamps used in the designs above can be found here.

Now it's your turn!

October Special

2011-10-01T05:00:00.000-04:00

Hello stamping friends!!

Click here for our current challenge.

And click here for our latest "Tutorial Tuesday".

It is the first of the month again!

That means it's time for another Monthly Special.

The first week of each month, High Hopes has a special sale on certain stamps.

This sale is only available directly through the High Hopes Website.

High Hopes Stamps is located in South Western Ontario, surrounded by farm land. This time of year we love that many of our local farmers put up roadside stands selling the best of their crops. Every year we stock up on fresh peaches and cream corn to freeze, Zucchini to make into loaves of bread to freeze, and Blueberries, Apples and Peaches to can. Canning the fruits, and making and canning homemade salsa is a fall tradition that our family has had for years. We also love to go to the Fairs to see what other folks are making, and baking!

Being in that "Farm Fresh" mood,

we thought we would bring back some of our old favorite farm images for this month's

20% off sale!

(unmounted rubber stamps)

To see the images on sale, just put in the code word "Octsale" in the search box on the catalog page at the High Hopes website, or click here.

Here is also a list of stamps that are on sale this week...

M-044 Three pane Farm Animals
T-065 Funny Farm
R-106 Farm Background
S-120 Maribelle Cow
S-119 Farmer Clem
H-189 Brewster
Q-060 Buddy the Goat
R-107 Miss Peggy
F-165 "Everywhere an Oink Oink"
R-110 Odie Dog
R-108 She-Baa Sheep
E-158 "Here a moo"

E-159 "Everywhere a Moo"

F-164 "Eee Aye Oh"

Here are some samples by the Divas using the stamps on sale...

Wishing you Blue Ribbon crafting, and a harvest of Blessings!

~ The High Hopes Family

Using stamps to decorate your special dinner!

2011-09-27T05:00:00.001-04:00

Hello High Hopes Fans!!

Click here for our current challenge.

Scroll down to see the winners of the Christmas Release Blog Hop.

It is Tutorial Tuesday Time!!

However, this week we don't have a typical tutorial. We have a "showcase" instead.

High Hopes carries a wide variety of stamps for any 'themed' party...

even a Holiday Dinner Party!

So two of our fabulous Divas have created a Holiday Themed Table Setting.

Karen has created a lovely Thanksgiving Dinner Table...

While Tanya has created a Winter Wonderland Christmas Dinner Table...

We will start with Thanksgiving...

Included in this collection, Karen has created a

Dinner Menu, Napkin Ring, Party Favor,

and a wonderful centerpiece!

She chose "Fall" colors for a bright and cheery table!

For the Menu, Bountiful Harvest is the perfect stamp!

The menu is a simple "gate fold" card.

The menu was printed on the computer and added to the inside of the menu.

Cubby Pumpkins decorates a simple napkin ring.

These are easy to create. Just wrap some cardstock or patterned paper around a napkin, secure with strong adhesive, then add a decorative image to the front.

Isn't this the most adorable centerpiece?!

Karen decorated the outside of this potted plant using: Single Potted Sunflower, Angel Bear Scarecrow, and Corn Stalk (with some crows from the Scarecrow added).

On the inside of the Plant, Karen added a little "Stick" decoration using We're All Ears and Happy Thanksgiving sentiment.

For a special treat for your guests, you can create a simple "pizza box" decorated to match your theme. Here Karen used Sm Turkey.

If you need a larger image, High Hopes also carries Lg Turkey as well.

On the inside, Karen used Gobble Gobble Sentiment.

(I bet she gobbled up those chocolates after she took that picture!! LOL)

Mmm, I can smell the Turkey roasting now!!

For a different look, Tanya created a more subtle or "elegant" place setting using a crisp blue and brown color combo and some of the new release images...

I think this set is perfect for her simple, yet elegant dinnerware!

In this set, Tanya created a

name plate, menu, party favor, and napkin holder.

Again, the menu is a simple "Gate Fold Card" decorated with one of the new release stamps called Homespun Snowy.

Tanya left her menu blank on the inside, but it is simple to create a menu and print it out on the computer. To add a little elegance, Tanya stamped-off Hope for Peace Snowy in a light blue for a "watermarked" look. You get this look by stamping your image onto scrap paper first, then stamping it a second time onto your project.

At the top of her menu, she created a title using the new Cute Scarf Border.

Tanya used Hope for Peace Snowy again on the napkin ring tying in the Snowman theme.

A few mittens from Cute Mitten Border were cut out and added to a "sour cream" treat container.

Again, tying in the them, Tanya "stamped-off" the Cute Mitten Border a few times to create a subtle background for the name plate.

But you don't have to just stop at the dinner table!

During our release last week, a few of the Divas used the stamps in creative ways to decorate a home for the Holidays...

Decorate your tree...

Spruce up your Kitchen with this adorable recipe holder while doing your Holiday baking...

Have small gifts on hand for a special treat for family, friends, or teachers...

Make sure you have extra tags on hand for a last minute gift...

How about a little candle-light?!...

Decorate your mantle or coffee tables with a framed picture...

And don't forget your front door!!...

So, are you in the Holiday mood yet?!

I know I am!!

We will be back next week with a new challenge!!

In the mean time, Happy Stamping!!

Christmas Blog Hop Winners!!

2011-09-26T08:30:00.000-04:00

Hello High Hopes Fans!

I am back today with the long awaited winners of the Christmas Blog Hop!

The "Spread the Word" Candy prize is: The whole release!!

And the winner is...

Janine B

Congratulations!! Please email me at stampandcreate@bellsouth.net with your mailing address.

There are also two random blog hop participant winners who will receive:

5 new release stamps of your choice.

The winner from Sarah's Blog is: Riina

and the winner from Heidi's Blog is: Catherine

Congratulations, ladies! Please email me at stampandcreate@bellsouth.net with your mailing address and choice of free stamps

Christmas Blog Hop and Release!!

2011-09-22T00:01:00.003-04:00

Hello High Hopes Fans!!

edit: The winners of the Blog Hop are here.

Click here for our current challenge.

It is time!!

Today is the Christmas Release Blog Hop!!

The wonderful Design Divas have created some awesome samples

to showcase the new release stamps.

As you hop along the blogs to check out the designs,

make sure to leave a comment at each stop.

There is blog candy along the way - but you won't know where!

To enter the candy, you must leave a comment on the correct blog!

The blog hop will end on Saturday at Midnight EST.

After then, you will not be entered into the candy.

Oh, by the way, the stamps are NOW AVAILABLE!!

(Check out here for a list of retailers who may have the new stamps in stock)

So, now...let's hop...

Jeanne

Sirpa

Tanya

Karen

Andrea

Anna

Kristine

Sarah

Alex.

Heidi

Lacey

Happy stamping!!

Christmas Release Sneak Peek Day 2

2011-09-21T05:00:00.001-04:00

Hello High Hopes Fans!!

Click here for our current challenge.

So what did you think of the awesome sneak peeks yesterday?

Well, we are back today with more!!

But first, there is still time to enter the "Spread the Word" Candy here!

If you haven't already, help us advertise the Blog Hop and Release by posting the Release Banner on your blog. You can find details here.

The Blog Hop begins at 12:01am EST/5:01am GMT early tomorrow morning!

And the stamps will be available tomorrow!!!

And now, go check out what the Diva's have created for you today!!!

Andrea

Heidi

Anna

Kristine

Alex.

Sarah

Lacey

Sirpa

Karen

Tanya

Challenge 118: Home for the Holidays/Christmas Release Sneak Peek Day 1

2011-09-20T05:00:00.002-04:00

Hello High Hopes Fans!!

We hope that you have enjoyed the sneak peeks of the stamps being released on Thursday!

Today is the first day of the full projects being showcased by the wonderful Design Divas.

There is still time to enter the "Spread the Word" Candy here!

If you haven't already, help us advertise the Blog Hop and Release by posting the Release Banner on your blog. You can find details here.

Before we get to the DT projects, we have the winner from the Back to School Challenge...

Congratulations, Cheri!

Please email me at stampandcreate@bellsouth.net with your mailing address and choice of 3 free High Hopes Stamps.

The Divas are using the new stamps on their Challenge projects today!!

We will have another sneak peek day tomorrow.

Then, at 12:01am EST/5:01am GMT on Thursday, we will have a blog hop and release!!

The new challenge is: Home For the Holidays!!

Basically, let's see a Christmas card or project.

Remember you MUST use a High Hopes Stamp to be entered into the Challenge.

One random participant will win 3 free High Hopes Stamps.

If you are in need of some High Hopes stamps, why not check out the Diva's Stores:

Lacey Stephens - Stamp and Create based out of the US

Nikki Fairbairn - Bunny Zoe's Crafts based out of the UK/Europe

Amy Wegener - Stampin' Stuff based out of Australia

High Hopes Website

And now, here are the Diva's Holiday projects...

Tanya

Karen

Sirpa
Lacey

Sarah
Alex.

Kristine

Anna

Heidi
Andrea

Jeanne

All of these designs will be available for purchase on Thursday.

The challenge will remain open through October 3rd.

New release September 22nd!!

2011-09-19T21:07:00.002-04:00

Hello stamping friends!!

Edit: The Spread the Word Candy is posted here.

Guess what?...

Yep, that's right...we are having a new release next week!

We have some fun Winter and Christmas designs to help you beat the heat left over from Summer!

The sneak peeks with full design projects will begin next Tuesday September 20th with our next challenge.

There will be more peeks on Wednesday, Sept 21st.

Followed by a Blog Hop and release on Thursday, Sept 22nd.

However, beginning tomorrow, you can have a tiny peek at one of the designs :-)

These peeks will continue though Monday.

Do you want some of the new stamps?

Then we would love you to help us spread the news about our blog hop and release.

To be entered into the draw:

1. Grab our blinkie from this post or the sidebar and place on your blog.

2. Tell your friends about the news, blog hop and release on September 22nd.

3. Become a follower of this blog or our Facebook Page if you aren't already ;-) You don't want to miss out on the fun and there will be tons of prizes along the blog hop!!!

4. Leave a comment on this post with a link to your blog post sharing our news.

The contest ends 8pm EST (Midnight GMT - London) on Saturday, September 24th!!

Tiny Peek Day 4

2011-09-19T08:00:00.001-04:00

Hello Stamping Friends!!

If you are looking for the current challenge, click here.

We are back today with another tiny peek of one of the images that will be released on Thursday, Oct 24th.

What do you think about this one?!

As a reminder, if you help us spread the word about the release, you will be entered into a candy drawing! You can see details here.

We will be back tomorrow with the beginning of the full projects and our new challenge.

The release and blog hop is on Thursday, Oct 24th.

Tiny Peek Day 3

2011-09-18T07:00:00.001-04:00

Hello Stamping Friends!!

If you are looking for the current challenge, click here.

We are back today with another tiny peek of one of the images that will be released on Thursday, Oct 24th.

What do you think about this one?!

As a reminder, if you help us spread the word about the release, you will be entered into a candy drawing! You can see details here.

We will be back tomorrow with another tiny peek and the full projects begin on Tuesday with our new challenge. The release and blog hop is on Thursday, Oct 24th.

Tiny Peek Day 2

2011-09-17T11:19:00.004-04:00

Hello Stamping Friends!!

If you are looking for the current challenge, click here.

We are back today with another tiny peek of one of the images that will be released on Thursday, Oct 24th.

What do you think about this one?!

As a reminder, if you help us spread the word about the release, you will be entered into a candy drawing! You can see details here.

We will be back tomorrow with another tiny peek and the full projects begin on Tuesday with our new challenge. The release and blog hop is on Thursday, Oct 24th.

Tiny Peek Day 1

2011-09-16T08:00:00.000-04:00

Hello High Hopes Fans!

If you missed it, make sure to check out the Blog Hop and Release Post here.

We promised you a little peek of the release images...so here you go!

What do you think?

As a reminder, the full release projects begin on Tuesday with our next challenge.

The release and blog hop is scheduled for Thursday, September 22nd.

In the mean time, we will be back with another tiny peek tomorrow!

Meet the Divas: Guests Heidi and Sarah

2011-09-13T05:00:00.000-04:00

Hello High Hopes Fans!

We are starting something new today!

Once a month we will showcase two of the Design Divas in a "Meet the Divas" Q &A.

We thought you might want to know more about the people who work for High Hopes and learn about how they got their start in the world of Handmade Cards!

This week it only makes sense to start the Meet the Divas with our two newest members -

our Guest Divas...

Heidi

1)How long have you been crafting? Did you start as a child? Did someone inspire your creativity?

I cannot remember a time when I was not involved with something crafty. I inherited my creativity from my mum! The ceramic ornaments we painted when I was young still hang on the Christmas tree every year. I was introduced to stamping by Sherri, my best friend from University through Stampin' Up.

2) When did you buy your first stamp? What were the circumstances surrounding that purchase?

My first Stamp was a Snowman that I purchased to make Christmas Cards. My first non-Stampin' Up Stamp was H.M.S. Noah's Ark!

3) What is your favorite stamping medium? Waterproof ink, Embossing Ink/powder? Glitter?

I love embossing with ink and powder and dry embossing.

4) When in your local stamp shoppe or online stamping store, what is your guilty pleasure that you end up buying although you know you already have tons of? Ribbons/Papers/Inks/Pens... etc.?

My guilty pleasure when it comes to stamping is designer paper. Though, I would buy it and never want to use it for fear of it running out! Now, I am actually using it on projects and cards!

5) What coloring medium do you prefer? Prisma's, Tombow's, or Copic's? Other?

I love to stamp a bunch of images with memento Tuxedo Black and colour them with Copic Markers while watching television in the evening!

6) Future goals of things you want to learn to use with your stamping... or try.. .be it a technique or submitting to a magazine, or teaching classes, starting your own shoppe...etc..

My future crafting goals are to try water colouring with Twinkling H2Os and to see if I can get published.

7) Other crafting you do? Job? Hobbies or interests?

Outside of my crafting world, I am originally from England and have lived many places in the U.S. I now live near San Francisco California. I graduated from Virginia Tech with a degree in engineering. I got my MBA four years later from the University of North Carolina. I am a program manager for a transportation start up. I love riding my bicycle, listening to music, watching Formula One and American College Football (Go Hokies!), driving my convertible, snorkeling, cooking and baking. I love animals and I play servant to four cats!

8) Share with us your favorite project, and the techniques you used...

One of my favourite High Hopes projects was this Holiday Gift Tag that uses two of my favourite techniques, colouring with Copic markers and Dry Embossing.

Supplies Used:

High Hopes Stamp: Three Pane Christmas

Stamped with Black Memento Tuxedo Ink Coloured with Copics

Tag Shape: Tag and Bookplate Sizzix Die by Tim Holtz

Dry Embossing: Cuttlebug Snowflakes Folder

Silver embossed material: Shimmer Sheetz by Elizabeth Craft Designs

Large hole cut with Long Rectangle Nestabilites

Clear Acetate sheet used to cover the rectangle hole

Star Confetti from Michaels Arts and Craft

3M Foam Tape

¼ Inch White Grosgrain Ribbon for edges of the tag

Red Poppy Polka Dot Ribbon from Papertrey Ink

Silver Cord from Stampin' Up

Here are a few of Heidi's other High Hopes cards...

Sarah1)How long have you been crafting? Did you start as a child? Did someone inspire your creativity?

I have always done some form of crafts – even as a child, although I wasn't necessarily very good at it! I think it skipped a generation, because my mom's mom paints and my dad's dad painted. I used to love pastels when I was really young, and did still life mostly as well as animals. My favourite childhood Christmas presents were my Prismacolor pencil crayons and my easel. My crafting got a little more "serious" when I got married and made my menus, place cards, etc. That's when I got into stamping and embossing and I discovered vellum (oooohh!).

2) When did you buy your first stamp? What were the circumstances surrounding that purchase?

My first rubber stamp that I can remember (apart from the childhood collection) was "Love" in script from Michaels that I used as a theme for my wedding, and I embossed it in silver on everything. I still have it. I got more into the stamping "world" when I discovered Stampin' Up while on maternity leave with Samuel. I went to one party and was instantly HOOKED. I loved being able to create a greeting card myself, start to finish, that actually looked decent and I could give to someone! I give a LOT of greeting cards and I keep a book with everyone's birthday, anniversary, etc (ok – not that I actually REMEMBER them all, despite the book – oops!). So I knew this was the hobby for me! Then, a few years ago, I discovered Scrappin' Great Deals and a new world was opened up to me! I could not believe the array of stamps and products that were out there, beyond Stampin' Up. I took a Copic class with Andrea Murdock and Kim Reid and fell instantly in love with Copics and with the "open" stamp images that I could colour.

3) What is your favorite stamping medium? Waterproof ink, Embossing Ink/powder? Glitter?

My favourite stamping medium is definitely the Tuxedo black Memento ink on Copic XPress It paper – that I colour with my Copics. I haven't embossed in a long time, but I do still like a nice black embossed outline.And I like to add 3D glaze and Stickles to almost everything!

4) When in your local stamp shop or online stamping store, what is your guilty pleasure that you end up buying although you know you already have tons of? Ribbons/Papers/Inks/Pens... etc.?

I buy (almost) everything at Scrappin' Great Deals. I'm on the design team and I teach Copic classes there. I do order some new things online though to try out and to see if I want to suggest them for the store. I've ordered some really beautiful things from My Favorite Things (I love their dies) and Magnolia-licious (new fave is Yoga Tilda). My guilty pleasure is tied between 6x6 paper stacks and stamps. I always think it's "investment" because I might teach with it or blog it, hee hee! But I do love all things "antiquey", "vintage", "French", "European", "old world". Can't resist. And I must admit that I do feel the need to keep adding to my Tim Holtz for Ranger distress ink collection. And Copics, of course, but I do think of these as "needs" because I teach with them! And I do use them every day.

5) What coloring medium do you prefer? Prisma's, Tombow's, or Copic's? Other?

I'm 100% a Copic girl. I do try other mediums, but always, always come back to my Copics. I do LOVE distress inks too though. I find they work really well together.

6) Future goals of things you want to learn to use with your stamping... or try.. .be it a technique or submitting to a magazine, or teaching classes, starting your own shoppe...etc..

My goal for the longest while has been to be on a design team, and now I've joined two in the past two months alone!So I'm REALLY excited about that!My other goal was to teach – and I'm starting on September 22, so I'm thrilled to be achieving that milestone!My next goal is to be published in a magazine, so that will be my project for the fall/ winter.I would like to master watercolouring, which is something I haven't succeeded with so far.We may be moving house next year and if we do my DEFINITE project will be to create a proper craft room with built in storage and lots of work surface!

7) Other crafting you do? Job? Hobbies or interests?

I work full-time in marketing, so that is VERY busy to say the least.I travel a lot for my job too, so it makes it tough to find time for hobbies when I'm out of town.I also have a 7 year old son, who is into karate and swimming, so that takes up a lot of time as well.And I'm taking a certificate course at UWO starting this week, so that will be consuming a lot of my time as well!I'd like to find more time for sleep actually, and to read.If I do get some down time, I love to read and I'm in two book clubs.

8) Share with us your favorite project, and the techniques you used...

This is my most recent, and favourite. I always find that my newest project is my favourite! Because it reflects what I'm into at the moment. Right now, you can see in this card, that I'm really into my distress inks.I use my Spellbinder dies all the time – and am in love with my Big Shot.I've used glimmer mist all over this card, which is a current favourite, as well as Smooch gold ink.Lots of die cutting here, distressing, Copic colouring, layering.I've doubled up my dimensionals to make my frame sit even higher.I've printed my own sentiment on cardstock rather than stamping it, which I've been doing a lot lately.I found a great book with lots of sentiments and card texts – I think it's awesome.I'm trying to make my cards more like "frameable art" and less like flat cards.

Here are a few more High Hopes Cards from Sarah...

Happy stamping!

Challenge 117: Back to School

2011-09-06T05:00:00.006-04:00

Hello High Hopes fans!!

Before we get to the challenge and winner, we have a few things to mention.

First off, do you like the new look of the blog?

We are hoping to update the look of the blog periodically to go with the themes and seasons. The very talented Karen stamped and colored the wondering header while the fabulous Bethany (aka the right arm of High Hopes) created the background and overall design.

We have added tabs to the top of the blog to help you find what you're looking for.

You will find a tab for the current challenge, a list of tutorials, an introduction to the team and artists, and where you can find High Hopes stamps.

We also added a "Publication" Tab. Did you know that High Hopes pays you (in stamps) for any printed publication you have using a High Hopes image?! If you have been published in a print magazine, make sure to let us know!!

Also, the High Hopes webstore will be hosting a Monthly Blog Special.

Specific stamps or line of stamps will be on sale each month during the first week of the month. These specials are only available through the High Hopes webstore - not through any local or Diva retail store.

The September Monthly Special is MelJen Designs.

These will be on sale through tomorrow.

We hope the new layout will make it easier to find everything you need.

Oh, and we are now on FACEBOOK!! Make sure to come join our Facebook page!

Lastly, it's time to say goodbye to our most recent Guest Divas and introduce you to our newest Guests. It was such a pleasure to have Niki E and Lynne on the team. They will be greatly missed! But we are so happy to give a warm welcome to Heidi and Sarah.

Next week we will start a new program called "Meet the Divas". Once a month we will showcase two of our Designers. We will begin this program with our newest guests. So please make sure to come back next week to learn all about the newest members of the team.

Ok...it was wonderful to see all of your Autumn Color themed cards last challenge! Unfortunately, there is only 1 winner...

Congratulations, Mueppi!

Please email me at stampandcreate@bellsouth.net with your mailing address and choice of 3 High Hopes Stamps to claim your prize.

Here is her cute card using Guard Duty Rudy...

It's time for a new challenge!

This challenge is being hosted by Jeanne and her challenge is:

Back to School

You can make a card for a teacher, create a card for a student returning to school, or make someone for your little student: back back/lunch box tag, bookmark, notebook, etc...

One random winner will receive 3 High Hopes stamps of your choice.

Just remember that you MUST use a High Hopes stamp to be entered into the challenge.

For your inspiration, here are the awesome Design Diva samples...

Lacey

Karen

Heidi (new Guest Diva)

Anna

Sarah (new Guest Diva)

Andrea

Sirpa

Alex.

Kristine

Now it's your turn!!

New Monthly Specials at the High Hopes Store

2011-09-01T05:00:00.001-04:00

Hello High Hopes Fans!!

Click HERE for our Current Challenge or HERE for our newest Tutorial

As many of you remember we used to have a Special of the month stamp set that we offered through our website a year or two back. That sale was very popular, and many of our customers have written and asked that we bring it back. Who doesn't love a sale? We know we do, and so in the spirit of stretching our stamping dollar, we will be posting to this page a new sale starting at the first of every month, to run a week.

Our first sale is a blast from the past sale, featuring the girly swirly fabulous art of Melissa Jenkins aka MelJen's Designs. Though her stint as a High Hopes artist was short lived, we still love her sweet and quirky style, and hope you do too!

For the first week of this month,

we are offering 20% off all unmounted and cling foam mounted MelJen's Designs listed at High Hopes Rubber Stamps.

You can find the 22 images and 2 saying stamps included in the sale by going to the High Hopes website and clicking on the "online catalog" link. Once there put the keyword "Meljens" in the search box and then, you're off to shop!

Your order total will be discounted before you are billed with a final invoice that reflects your savings.

Be sure to check back the first of every month to see the new monthly special, a great way stretch your stamping dollars!

Here are some samples by the Divas using the stamps on sale...

Tutorial: Cupcake Topper by Lacey

2011-08-30T05:00:00.002-04:00

Hello High Hopes fans!!

If you are looking for the current challenge, click here.

It's Tutorial Tuesday Time!!

This week, I (Lacey) get to share a tutorial with you.

While working on the Autumn Color Challenge, I decided I wanted to showcase some of the adorable Halloween stamps that Laurie Furnell illustrated last year.

I thought they would make a fun Halloween Themed Cupcake Toppers...

These are super easy to make.

Plus, you can probably re-use the images after the cupcakes are eaten!

For my samples, I used Standing Witchy Poo and Witchy Poo and Kitty Frame. But you can find all of the Witchy Poo Stamps here and all of the Halloween designs here...lots to choose from!

Supplies:

~ Stamped, colored, and cut out images.

~ Punched and die cut shapes (to back the image. (You will need 2 of each background shape for each topper.

~ Skewer or popsicle stick (I cut some wood skewers down to 6")

~ Dimensional foam

~ Adhesive

I apparently missed the photo of the first step! Sorry!

1. Attach your colored image to a die cut shape. For my design, I used some nestability shapes. I chose a medium size circle so that it wasn't too large or heavy for the cupcake to hold up.

2. Apply Foam dimensionals to the back of the diecut shape. I placed one at the top to ensure that it will stop the image from sliding down on the stick. I also applied some adhesive to make sure the image didn't stays put and doesn't fall off the stick.

3. Attach the stick to the adhesive making sure it is centered behind the design.

4. Use the other diecut shape to sandwich around the stick. This will hide the stick and allow you to decorate the back of the design as well.

5. To decorate the back of the design, I used Happy Halloween Sentiment Top/Bottom along with a few punched layers. But you can decorate the back any way you want.

6. Repeat the process for all of your toppers.

7. Place the toppers into the cupcakes and serve!!

Of course, these toppers work for any type of cupcake party

(Birthday, Graduation, Holidays, etc...).

Whatever the party, I'm sure High Hopes has the stamps for the theme you are looking for!!

Go check them out at www.highhopesstamps.com!

Challenge 116: Autumn Colors

2011-08-23T05:00:00.004-04:00

Hello High Hopes fans!!

It looks like the past few weeks have been a favorite with you all!! You seemed to enjoy the "Anything Goes" challenge as well as Anna's Faux Stitching Tutorial!!

Thank you all for your lovely comments and participation.

The random winner of the Anything Goes Challenge is:

Congratulations, Dorthy S.

Please contact me at stampandcreate@bellsouth.net with your mailing address and choice of 3 free stamps!

Here is Dorthy's lovely card using Ice Cream For Two...

We are hosted this week by the talented and sweet Niki!!

Her challenge is:

Autumn Colors

(any combination of orange, black, purple, brown, red)

One random participant will win 3 FREE High Hopes stamps!!

Just remember, you MUST use a High Hopes image on your card to participate.

If you do not use a High Hopes image, your link will be removed.

If you are in need of some High Hopes stamps, why not check out the Diva's Stores:

Lacey Stephens - Stamp and Create based out of the US

Nikki Fairbairn - Bunny Zoe's Crafts based out of the UK/Europe

Amy Wegener - Stampin' Stuff based out of Australia

High Hopes Website

Now here are the fantastic Design Diva samples for your inspiration...

Niki

Kristine
Karen
Alex.
Lynne
Jeanne
Lacey
Tanya
Andrea

Sirpa

Anna (using more of that Faux Stitching technique from her tutorial).

Tutorial - Faux Stitching by Anna

2011-08-16T05:00:00.000-04:00

It's Tutorial Tuesday Time!!

If you are looking for the current challenge, click here.

We are back this week with a Faux Stitching Tutorial by the fabulous Anna Wight!!

One of my absolute favorite things to add to my cards and other paper craft projects is faux stitching. You might be familiar with the faux stitching technique that uses a paper piercer (or thumbtack) and marker to create faux sewing machine holes and faux thread. That is a great technique, but I do something a little different!

Let me introduce you to the tracing wheel! When I add faux stitches to my projects, I prefer to use the tracing wheel which is commonly used by seamstresses. You can find tracing wheels in most sewing departments at fabric and craft stores. They’re inexpensive, and are so very handy! I’ve put together several projects to demonstrate just a few ways you can use this wonderful little tool!

For the sailor card shown above, I used the tracing wheel to create a subtle grid on the base of the card. Most of the time I just eyeball the lines on my projects, but you can use a clear ruler to easily guide you if you prefer to have evenly spaced, straight lines. I recommend using a self-healing mat under your project. The mat will provide just enough “give”, while not allowing the tracing wheel to cut into your paper (or your table top). If you don’t have a self-healing mat, a magazine you’re willing to roughen up works well too.

When you complete your grid, you’ve got a more interesting card base without the added weight (and cost) of patterned paper.

You’re not limited to creating faux stitching on plain card stock! Here I’ve added a grid to polka dot patterned paper for added visual interest. The added texture is nice as well.

You can also use the tracing wheel to quickly add graphic qualities or other visual elements to your projects.

I used the tracing wheel on this card to give motion to the spaceship. A few lines is all it takes to bring a little life to a very simple card. And because I wanted to use solid black card stock behind the spaceship, using the tracing wheel to create blasts worked really well!

You can use the tracing wheel to create straight lines around the edges of your cards, and you can create curved lines to accent other areas, as I’ve done on this card to detail the tops of the hills.

I also used the tracing wheel to create flower stems and center lines on the leaves, and also to parts of the sentiment banner to pull all of the card elements together.

You can also use the tracing wheel to simply add visual interest to the edges of your projects as well. I like using it around the edges of matted layers. It quickly adds another element to the project that doesn’t add extra weight or bulk. It’s a technique that’s ideal for cards being mailed!

Tracing wheels have been around for a long time. Keep a look out at antique shops, ebay, garage sales, etc for unique, vintage wheels. Here are two wheels from my collection that are fun to use. A double wheel, and a flat edged wheel. Each wheel produces a unique line, so be sure to find one that you really enjoy using.

How do I feel about tracing wheels? I think they’re out of this WORLD! I hope you consider adding one (or more) of these fun tools to your paper crafting toolbox.