Moxie Fab World

Great lines,

~Cath

Stamp It! 3 Ways Week: Day 4

2012-01-26T05:00:00.000-05:00

Can you hear the choir of angels singing? Do you see the clouds parting, the light cascading down from the heavens? Do you see its focused glow on the title, the projects, the informative call-outs? Have you gotten your copy yet?

If you just haven't gotten around to it yet, or even if you have, here's yet another trendy sneak peek just for you. Check it:

Jetsetter Stamp Set by Studio Calico, p. 80

Jetsetter Luggage Tags by Amber Daigre, p. 80

You know what to do! Leave me a comment by midnight EST on Sunday, January 29 and I'll draw one lucky to win the stamp set shown above as well as a copy of this stampalicious issue!

This is so much fun!

~Cath

PS Click on over to Paper Crafts Connection, friends, for more of our SI!3W party!

Oh My Moxie Fab!

2012-01-25T18:00:00.000-05:00

Wheel of color,

~Cath

Stamp It! 3 Ways Week: Day 3

2012-01-25T05:00:00.000-05:00

Here it is, your sneak peek and comment-to-win in celebration of the release of the moxitacular Stamp It! 3 Ways special issue from Paper Crafts magazine.

Full of trendy stamp sets and ideas on how to use them differently, this issue is chock full of innovative ways to get the most from your stamps.

And now, without further ado, let's sneak a peek. Check it:

Admit One Stamp Set from Lawn Fawn, p. 70

Ferris Wheel Gift Tag by Kelly Marie Alvarez, p. 71

You likey? Leave me a comment by midnight EST on Sunday, January 29 and I'll draw one lucky to win the above stamp set and a copy of this yummy, yummy issue!

There's still two more to go!

~Cath

PS Be sure and stop by Paper Crafts Connection for even more fun and another chance to win!

Oh My Moxie Fab!

2012-01-24T18:00:00.000-05:00

Blush Princess Stamp Set by My Mind's Eye

Thinking,

~Cath

Stamp It! 3 Ways Week: Day Two

2012-01-24T06:00:00.000-05:00

Who's ready to see another moxie fab card created from a trendy Wendy stamp set in celebration of the release of Stamp It! 3 Ways, the latest and greatest special issue from Paper Crafts magazine?

As in, who's ready to be inspired? Well, here you go, straight from pages 38 and 39. Check it:

Home Sweet Home Card by Laura Williams

Hurray for sneak peeks! Hurray for Stamp It! 3 Ways Week! Hurray for yet another way to get your stamping fix from Paper Crafts magazine! Hurray for promotional week giveaways! That's right! Just leave me a comment by midnight EST on Sunday, January 29 and I'll draw one lucky to win the stamp set shown above as well as a copy of this stamptastic issue!

Hurray!

~Cath

PS Hurray for more Stamp It! 3 Ways inspiration on Paper Crafts Connection!

Winnerday!

2012-01-24T05:00:00.000-05:00

Ready? Set! Scroll!

The winners of the Homemade 6 Bean Soup collection from Jillibean Soup in last week's Moxie Monday are:

Kim M who said...
I love these papers, they are even cuter in person than on the web. Love everything Jillibean!

and Margie who said...
I love everything Jillibean! Love the "hominess"of this collection!

The winners of the My Favorite Things stamps in last week's Moxie Fab "Stamp" of Approval post are:

Donna who said...
I like the Love you with all my heart! The little girl with the heart is just too cute.

and Jen who said...
Oh my gosh, that 'little loveasarus' makes me grin soooo much!

And last but certainly not least, the winners of the comment-to-win in last week's Five for Friday: Stamp It! 3Ways Week Begins on Monday post is:

Ravengirl who said...
Very inspiring eye candy today! I love the colors on Becky's card!!

Congratumoxilations to these winners and thanks to everyone who left comments last week!

Winners, please send me an email with your addresses to cedvalson@papercraftsmag.com with the prize/post you won in the subject line in order to claim your prizes. I can't WAIT to hear from you!

Have a winner of a day,

~Cath

Oh My Moxie Fab!

2012-01-23T18:00:00.000-05:00

No End to Gardens

Sit a spell?

~Cath

Stamp It! 3 Ways Week: Day One

2012-01-23T05:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Monday, Moxie Fabbers--and welcome to the first day of our moxie inspiring Stamp It! 3 Ways Week!

Not only will I be showing you exclusive peeks into this issue that shows you how to go the distance with your stamp sets, but you'll also be getting a chance to win not just a copy of the issue, but a stamp set from the issue itself!

I mean, what's more inspiring than seeing 3 completely different, clever, versatile, and stylistically varied approaches to one stamp set? I know right? And just think, we've packed the issue with 40, count 'em, 40 different stamp sets for a total of 120 different card designs!

Here's one of the trendiest stamp sets from the issue:

Love Struck Stamp Set from American Crafts, p. 58

...and one of the three moxie fab cards that was designed with it:

Say Cheese Card by Mariana Grigsby, p. 59

You likey? If so, leave me a comment by midnight EST on Sunday, January 29 and I'll draw one lucky to win the stamp set shown above as well as a copy of this stamptacular issue!

Happy Stamp It! 3 Ways Week!

~Cath

PS Be sure and stop by Paper Crafts Connection where the 3 Ways celebration continues!

Oh My Moxie Fab!

2012-01-22T18:00:00.000-05:00

Winter's jewelry,

~Cath

Oh My Moxie Fab!

2012-01-21T18:00:00.000-05:00

Gives new meaning to the phrase, "spot of tea,"

~Cath

Oh My Moxie Fab!

2012-01-20T18:00:00.001-05:00

Love You With All My Heart

Snow sky,

~Cath

Five for Friday: Stamp It! 3 Ways Week Begins on Monday

2012-01-20T05:00:00.000-05:00

If you have the sense that we here at Paper Crafts magazine are c-r-a-n-k-i-n-g out the special issues, you would be dead on target. One after the other, we knock out special issue after special issue, all with the supreme purpose of inspiring you, our dedicated readers.

And while it seems that the ink on Cool Tools is barely even dry, here we come with another moxie fab stamping issue, Stamp It! 3 Ways:

What was once a beloved section of our Stamp It! Cards issues, Stamp It! 3 Ways is now its own 92-page issue in which we show you three completely different and oh-so-inspiring ways to use the same stamp set.

We'll be celebrating the release of this moxie-tacular stamping issue all next week here in the Moxie Fab World and on Paper Crafts Connection, and today I'm giving you a taste of the yumminess that can be found within the pages of its folds. Check it:

Feel Better Soon Card by Courtney Kelley, p. 21

Moxie Fab Alert: I moxie love the simple paper piecing techniques Courtney has used on this clean and graphic stamped card, don't you?

Love You So Card by Becky Olsen, p. 35

Moxie Fab Alert: From the color scheme to the beautiful stamping to the polka dot background, this card is the very definition of "sweet."

Happy Birds Card by Jennifer McGuire, p. 41

Moxie Fab Alert: Speaking of sweet, this is one sweet wedding card, dontchatink?

Welcome Home Card by Heidi Van Laar, p. 63

Moxie Fab Alert: The homespun feel of this card is unmistakable, and I tell you what, anytime you can combine heartfelt and trendy, it's always a winner in my book.

Shabby French Congrats Card by Julia Stainton, p. 85

Moxie Fab Alert: Trendiness--and loveliness--abounds in this card with French influences in blue!

Inspired? Just wait until next week when I show you even more from this creative magazine that is all about showing you how to go the distance with stamps! In the meantime, I'd love to offer one of these issues to a random lucky, just be sure and leave a ditty by midnight EST on Sunday, January 22 to be eligible to win.

3 cheers for 3 Ways!

~Cath

PS This is your last weekend to work on your entries to our Map to Your Heart Challenge. It's time to "map" out your project's journey, that is, if you haven't already joined in on all the fun!

Oh My Moxie Fab!

2012-01-19T18:00:00.000-05:00

Flamingo Toes

Haha!

~Cath

Moxie Fab "Stamp" of Approval: My Favorite Things

2012-01-19T05:00:00.000-05:00

I suppose I've got Valentine's Day on my mind, and these fun stamps in various styles from My Favorite Things have turned out to be some of my favorite things--and I'm pretty sure they'll be some of yours as well. Check it:

Which of these is your favorite? If it's too hard to narrow down, then feel free to tell me what you love about these stamps and why by midnight EST on Sunday, January 22 and I'll draw two luckies to win everything you see here today!

Stamp me happy,

~Cath

Oh My Moxie Fab!

2012-01-18T18:00:00.000-05:00

Victoria Station

Changing perspectives changes everything,

~Cath

I'm Just Sayin'

2012-01-18T05:00:00.000-05:00

...that I stumbled upon these gems from Elva Fields whilst spending a bit of time on Pinterest the other day, and I was immediately struck by how inspiring they are for card making. Whether you are looking for astonishing color combinations, ways to play with texture, or looking for ways to balance your designs (note the surprising placement of the focal points in some of the necklaces), these creations are nothing short of moxie fab. Check it:

Living Breathing History

Maharaja

Gray Gal

Coral Earrings

Sparkling City Center

Heading Out

Despite the Clouds

Rally the Troops

Rock and Roll Rhinestones

Kindred Souls

A Hint at Fabulous

Brightness in Shimmering Shadows

Multi Hoops

Delightful Diversion

Pale Pink with Posies

I'm just sayin',

~Cath

Oh My Moxie Fab!

2012-01-17T18:00:00.000-05:00

I want to live in a world as bright as this,

~Cath

Tuesday Trigger: Winter Blossoms

2012-01-17T12:00:00.000-05:00

Blue Eyed Yonder

It's Tuesday Trigger time! Load up your approaches to this moxie fab Trigger following these fun-tastic deets:

Create a paper crafted project that is inspired by this week’s Trigger and post it to your blog by Sunday, January 29.
Then, click on the title of your blog post, copy the URL at the top, and link it using Mr. Linky below.
Please show the Trigger on your blog and link back to the Tuesday Trigger to encourage your readers to play along as well.
Please include a statement as to how and why you were inspired as sometimes it isn't easy to tell. :)
If you don't have a blog, post your project to this flickr group and link it to Mr. Linky as soon as you've grabbed the URL.

Easy peasy and TONS o' fun!Congrats to this week's Trigger Targets who posted their interpretations to last week's Trigger, By the Numbers! Make sure you check out their projects and leave them some love on their blogs!

Targets, please send me an email at cedvalson@papercraftsmag.com requesting the Trigger Target badge:

...and I'll tell you how to get all linked up! If you've already received a badge, feel free to add this one to your list!

Congrats also to this week's random winner:

Laura Whitaker

Laura, send me an email with your address and I'll hook you up with a moxie fab prize from my moxie magical prize drawer as my thanks to you for playing along!

Ready? Set! Let the linking begin!

~Cath

Winnerday!

2012-01-17T05:00:00.000-05:00

It's one of those rare occasions when I don't have any winners to post today friends, but I do have a few ways for you to become a winner right here in the Moxie Fab World.

Ready? Set! Scroll!

The Map to Your Heart Challenge is well underway. Be sure you "map" out your project's journey and add it to Mr. Linky by next Monday, January 23.

We've got FIVE inspiring challenges in conjunction with our moxie fabulous celebration of the release of our latest and greatest special issue, Cool Tools. All you have to do is find a moxie creative approach to each of these by February 13, and maybe you'll be one of our tool-o-rific winners!

The Die Cutting Challenge

The Cutting & Trimming Challenge

The Punches Challenge

The Embossing & Debossing Challenge

The Around the House Challenge

I can't wait to see what you do with YOUR six chances to win!

~Cath

Oh My Moxie Fab!

2012-01-16T18:00:00.000-05:00

Funky wallpaper,

~Cath

Moxie Fabber of the Week: Elizabeta Kushner

2012-01-16T12:00:00.000-05:00

I know our Moxie Fabber of the Week, Elizabeta Kushner, simply as Eli. Hailing from Croatia where there is not a lot of paper crafting product available to her, Eli is always "wowing" me with her from-the-ground-up approach to card making. If she doesn't have a patterned paper that will meet her needs, she creates it. If she doesn't have a critical embellishment, she makes it. She enters pretty much every single one of the challenges I offer here in the Moxie Fab World, and I have always been struck by her resourcefulness in her thoughtful designs.

It is with great excitement that I introduce you to her today, for this interview is one of those fortunate glimpses into a paper crafter whose sheer joy for the craft is inspiring in and of itself.

Take it away, Eli!

What is your full name? What is your screen name? Do you have a blog or an on-line gallery?

My name is Elizabeta Kushner. There are two ways one can shorten my name in Croatian, and often you will see them on mine or other blogs: Eli (Ellie) or Beta (Betty). So, that is how my blog got the name Cards by Eli and my cards, stamps and papers I do as a hobby got the brand “Teta Beta” or in English “Aunt Betty”.

Describe yourself in three short, fun sentences.

I live in Croatia. It is a small but beautiful country where scrapbooking and cardmaking are just beginning to become popular. When I am not working, studying or serving in my church, I love to read, meet new people, make cards, watch movies with my husband or design stamps and papers together with him (I have thousands of ideas and he is the brain behind the computer).

How long have you been paper crafting? How did you get involved in paper crafting? What is your favorite aspect of paper crafting?

Ever since this worldwide financial crisis started. And that is not a joke. I worked full time and now, for some year-and-a-half, because of the crisis I am not working full time anymore. My husband, wise as he always is, said to me, “Elizabeta, since you are hyperactive and know nothing about free time and the concept of doing nothing, you need to find yourself a hobby. Right now!” And, since I have a good friend that is very famous in the world of card making, I stopped buying cards from her and finally took her and my husband’s advice and started to make my own cards.

Strange as it is, in this year-and-a-half God provided for my materials in many ways so that I could do many free workshops and make cards on a regular basis. Since there is almost nothing one can buy in Croatia for this hobby and I cannot buy so often supplies from other countries because of the high shipping and our taxes, we started to make our own papers and stamps (and it is so nice to have stamps in your own language). That is one thing I also like about crafting – every now and then I can make papers and stamps and not just cards. I still can’t believe that there are people who actually like my cards. I never thought about that and the fact that one day I would end up spotlighted somewhere or even published. I really enjoy making cards, and what I love the most is the fact that through my blog and my workshops I got to make so many new friends.

What do you like most about the Moxie Fab World? What is your favorite feature and why? Do you have a favorite all-time post?

The challenges and inspirational photos Cath offers make me craft in a different way. Often my cards are sweet, rich and quite ordinary, but when I come to the Moxie Fab World, I am challenged to make something different. That is why I really love the Tuesday Triggers.

Of course, my most favorite post is the one where Cath picked my card as one of the winners of the Card Play Challenge.

I did not expect that at all. There were a couple of my cards where I was thinking, "That one is really good," and then she picked the card of mine that I thought was fancy but not fancy enough.

We are all moxie fab in our own way. Name one thing that makes you moxie fab.

Well, for this one I had to do some research because of the language difference. I just wanted to make sure I understand the question well. :) I think people can see how much I enjoy crafting and spending time with crafters in my country, and maybe one day I would be able to spend some time with crafters outside of my country. ;) I just have a lot of fun crafting and I love to share it.

Name a paper crafter who inspires you. Why are you drawn to his or her work?

The lady that made me start crafting is the one and only Nina B. :) For a long time we were neighbors and when I moved to another city she finally got me into crafting. I love her work. Her stamps and dies are just beautiful and so much fun to use.

How would you describe your style? Provide an image of a paper crafted project that illustrates that style best.

I love to make complicated and elaborate cards, with clean lines and sometimes with a vintage look. Although, I would love to make some more CAS cards, but that is just not quite possible yet since I do not have so many stamps in my own language. :) It is not very encouraging when I have an idea for a CAS card and then realize that I just do not have a sentiment that is good enough for that specific card. Every now and then I would do something crazy like draw my patterned paper, “sew” with the stapler, burn the edges of my card or make a knitted envelope as is the case with this card:

Paper Crafts magazine has produced a great number of special issues over the years. Which has been the most inspiring to you and why?

Paper Crafts magazines are so well done and always contain so many beautiful cards that in a way it is hard to pick just one of them. And yet, in a way I know which special issue will have a special place in my life. :) I am excitingly awaiting the release of Card Creations, Volume 10 because it will contain my first card published with Paper Crafts!

Do you consider yourself to be a card maker or a scrapbooker? If you are a card maker, why do you prefer it over scrapbooking? If you are a scrapbooker, why do you prefer it over card making? If you do both, what do you like about card making that is different from scrapbooking and/or vice versa?

I am 100% a card maker. I think I did a scrapbook page once or twice just to see how it is. But, since this hobby is just starting to be popular and the supplies are not easy to get, I do not think I will try that again any time sooner. It took me some time to present my cards in Croatia since cards here are usually always printed or have just dry flowers on them. I literary heard of just one person in all of Croatia that makes scrapbook pages (just heard, never saw anything).

Where do you get most of your paper crafting inspiration? Why do you find so much inspiration there?

I love to use challenges for my inspiration since there is almost always an inspirational photo or some nice colors, or even a sketch for the card (please note that I am not a competitive person, since Europeans are everything but that – we just go with the flow. ;) Basically, I use everything God created and let myself be inspired by that. You can see a lot of flowers, butterflies, lace and ribbon on my cards. I love cute and typical girly things, and that makes challenges for masculine cards even more fun. Sometimes I even love to use the Scriptures for my inspiration like for these two cards I did some time ago:

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Isn't Eli just lovely, friends? After seeing so much of her work over the years in our various challenges, it is really a treat for me to get to know her better through this interview. And while she was very concerned about her English, I think she did a fantastic job, don't you?

I'd like to thank Eli for taking the time and trouble to answer my questions today, and for being such an avid supporter of the Moxie Fab World. I'd also like to invite you to leave her some love, Moxie Fabber style!

Moxie Fabbers rock!

~Cath

Moxie Monday: Homemade 6 Bean Soup from Jillibean Soup

2012-01-16T05:00:00.000-05:00

Even though CHA Winter 2012 is just a couple of little weeks away, I still have some yums to show you from CHA Summer 2011, including this sweetie collection from Jillibean Soup.

Remember just a couple of weeks ago when we were counting down to 2012, and you voted for your favorite trends? Well, sewing icons was in your top three trends for the year, and the Homemade 6 Bean Soup collection is so full of nods to sewing and quilting that I've been chomping at the bit to bring it to you ever since. From spool tops to quilting patterns to gingham prints to an actual cutting mat, this collection is as homespun as they come. Check it:

Coordinating Stickers

Pea Pods (Diecuts)

6x6 Paper Pad

Vintage Buttons

Isn't this just the sweetest? Leave me a comment by midnight EST on Sunday, January 22 and I'll draw two random luckies to receive it in their mailbox sometime soon!

Souped up on this collection,

~Cath

Oh My Moxie Fab!

2012-01-15T18:00:00.000-05:00

Lowla

Wow!

~Cath

Oh My Moxie Fab!

2012-01-14T18:00:00.000-05:00

Anthology Magazine

Smile! (Oh, you already are!)

~Cath

Oh My Moxie Fab!

2012-01-13T18:00:00.000-05:00

White Papers Press

Paper cutting "blows" me away,

~Cath

Cool Tools Week: The Around the House Challenge

2012-01-13T07:46:00.000-05:00

It's the last day of our party celebrating the release of Cool Tools, friends, so I thought we'd go out in style!

That's right! Today we're paying homage to the tools we have around the house--those unexpected and perhaps overlooked paper crafting gems found in drawers and cupboards and tool boxes in the kitchen, the bathroom, the garage, etc.

I mean, have you ever thought of a paper clip as a tool? What about a stapler? A nail file? A screw driver? A hammer? How about a tea bag?

Now I've got you going, haven't I? You're thinking about all the things you can find around your house that would qualify as a "tool," aren't you? Great! Keep thinking, because you may come up with something we haven't thought of before!

To keep the brainstorm going, here are some examples from the issue I can't wait to share! Check it:

All Smiles Card by Courtney Kelley, p. 134

Moxie Fab Alert: I love the way the staples seem to both ground and underline the design in this card.

Just Fabulous Card by Kim Kesti, p. 136

Moxie Fab Alert: The household item Kim has used in this card is hem tape. She dyed it with shimmer spray and then turned it into flowers to create moxie fab DIY embellishments!

Soar Card by Teri Anderson, p. 138

Moxie Fab Alert: The circles in this card were created using the bottoms of plates, proving that the possibilities really are endless when you think of ways to create innovative ways to paper craft using tools from around the house!

How about you? Do you have some ideas about tools you might be able to use on your paper crafted projects from items you have around the house? Of course you do--and I can't wait to see what you come up with, just be sure that you follow these instructions as you load up your project(s):

Create a paper crafted project (card, gift bag, tag, layout, home decor item, mini-book cover, etc.) that incorporates an element that was created from a "tool" that you have around your house in an innovative way.
Upload it to your blog, click on the title of that post, copy the URL, and add it to Mr. Linky below.
Tell your readers that you've created your project for the Around the House Challenge in the Moxie Fab World and link it back to this post to encourage your readers to play along as well.
If you don't have a blog, upload your project to this flickr gallery, copy the URL to your project, and add it to Mr. Linky below.
Upload your projects by midnight EDT on Monday, February 13.
The winning entries will be shown on this blog on Wednesday, February 15 and will receive an "I'm Moxie Fab" challenge winner button as well as a copy of Cool Tools.

There's nothing I like more than getting creative around the house,

~Cath

PS As per usual, Courtney's got a stellar blog hop for you with loads o' inspiration and prizes galore, so be sure and click HERE to get started!

Oh My Moxie Fab!

2012-01-12T18:00:00.000-05:00

tinywhitedaisies

What did you celebrate today?

~Cath

Cool Tools Week: The Embossing & Debossing Challenge

2012-01-12T05:00:00.000-05:00

I don't know about you, but I sure am having myself some moxie fab fun as we celebrate the release of the latest and greatest special issue from Paper Crafts magazine, Cool Tools!

I mean, what could be more fun than a 164-page issue chock full of super innovative ways to use your paper crafting tools? Even more, what could be more fun than a week full of challenges to spark our creativity?

I know, right?

So let's get down to business, shall we? Today's challenge focus is on creative ways to emboss and deboss, where it's all about adding texture and dimension to our paper crafted projects. Hotter than hot, these techniques incorporate embossing templates in your die-cutting system. From there, the possibilities are endless. Check it:

Mod Hello Card by Heidi Van Laar, p. 26

Moxie Fab Alert: This bright and fun card was created from craft plastic. Heidi first applied paint to her embossing folder, ran the craft plastic through, touched up the "splooches," and voila! A moxie fab card in a splendid color scheme that says, "Wow!"

You Are My Sunshine Card by Danielle Flanders, p. 27

Moxie Fab Alert: Believe it or not, Danielle created the embossed elements in this sweet card by using some chipboard pieces that she loves. For step-by-step photos, see p. 27, but suffice it to say, the trick is to mist the cardstock and put a piece of felt underneath it before you run it through the die-cut machine.

This is the Day Frame by Betsy Veldman, p. 35

Moxie Fab Alert: In this decisively masculine project, Betsy embossed the patterned paper and then, leaving the paper on the embossing folder, rubbed it with an oil pastel. By leaving it in the embossing folder, a crisper design is achieved.

Inspired? Do you have a bunch of ideas "running through" your mind about how you can emboss and/or deboss something moxie fab? If so, here's the 411 on how to play:

Create a paper crafted project (card, gift bag, tag, layout, home decor item, mini-book cover, etc.) that incorporates an embossed or debossed element in an innovative way.
Upload it to your blog, click on the title of that post, copy the URL, and add it to Mr. Linky below.
Tell your readers that you've created your project for the Embossing & Debossing Challenge in the Moxie Fab World and link it back to this post to encourage your readers to play along as well.
If you don't have a blog, upload your project to this flickr gallery, copy the URL to your project, and add it to Mr. Linky below.
Upload your projects by midnight EDT on Monday, February 13.
The winning entries will be shown on this blog on Wednesday, February 15 and will receive an "I'm Moxie Fab" challenge winner button as well as a copy of Cool Tools.

Time to "make an impression,"

~Cath

PS Be sure and stop by Paper Crafts Connection for more Cool Tools Week fun!

Oh My Moxie Fab!

2012-01-11T18:00:00.000-05:00

So Cute Things

Funny bunny,

~Cath

Cool Tools Week: The Punches Challenge

2012-01-11T05:00:00.000-05:00

Our celebration of the release of Cool Tools in Cool Tools Week continues in our third challenge in as many days, friends!

Today we pay homage to those indispensable tools, punches. Check it:

Vintage Garland by Melissa Phillips, p. 62

Moxie Fab Alert: The punch possibilities are pretty much endless as we see in this sweet little project by Melissa Phillips.

Hello Friend Card by Vanessa Menhorn, p. 65

Moxie Fab Alert: Talk about a creative use of a punch! In this gorgeous card, Vanessa has used a border punch as a mask to create a pattern that she sponged on with ink!

Never Long Card by Courtney Kelley, p. 63

Moxie Fab Alert: I'm not sure it gets much simpler, or more wonderful, than this, friends. Courtney has used a square punch to create the background (and don't you just love how it looks like a window?) as well as the house, proving that you don't have to have a bunch of fandangled tools to make something that is truly moxie fab.

Inspired to use those punches? If so, then follow the bouncing ball:

Create a paper crafted project (card, gift bag, tag, layout, home decor item, mini-book cover, etc.) that incorporates a punched element in an innovative way.
Upload it to your blog, click on the title of that post, copy the URL, and add it to Mr. Linky below.
Tell your readers that you've created your project for The Punches Challenge in the Moxie Fab World and link it back to this post to encourage your readers to play along as well.
If you don't have a blog, upload your project to this flickr gallery, copy the URL to your project, and add it to Mr. Linky below.
Upload your projects by midnight EDT on Monday, February 13.
The winning entries will be shown on this blog on Wednesday, February 15 and will receive an "I'm Moxie Fab" challenge winner button as well as a copy of Cool Tools.

Who will beat us all to the punch? I can't wait to find out!

~Cath

PS Be sure and stop by Paper Crafts Connection today where the Cool Tools party rages on!

Oh My Moxie Fab!

2012-01-10T18:00:00.000-05:00

Waiting for snow,

~Cath

Cool Tools Week: The Cutting & Trimming Challenge

2012-01-10T06:00:00.075-05:00

The Cool Tools Week celebration continues today as we explore the world of paper crafting possibilities when we consider the creative applications of cutting and trimming tools.

From decorative scissors to trimmers to craft knives and circle cutters, I have no doubt that paper crafters of all skill levels and styles can find some innovative way to use cutters and trimmers. Here are some moxie fab examples from the issue itself. Check it:

Welcome Little Bird Card by Amber Daigre, p. 43

Moxie Fab Alert: Fringe scissors are all the rage, and I'm pretty sure that there are at least a million and one ways to use them. In this cutie of a card, Amber has used her fringe scissors to create this sweet little nest. For more clever ideas on how to incorporate fringe scissors into your projects, see pages 44, 45, 46, and 47.

Mother's Love Frame by Sarah Jay, p. 54

Moxie Fab Alert: In this heartfelt project, Sarah has used a circle cutter to create the frame. The rest is pure sweetness.

Colorful Friends Card by Teri Anderson, p. 46

Moxie Fab Alert: In yet another example of how to use fringe scissors creatively, Teri has distressed the letters that spell out "friends" with her fringe scissors. Don't have any of these specialty cutters on hand yourself? This effect can be easily achieved by using regular scissors as well.

Now it's your turn. Use any trimming or cutting tool to create a paper crafted project with pizazz for today's challenge. Here are the deets you'll need to trim up some fun!

Create a paper crafted project (card, gift bag, tag, layout, home decor item, mini-book cover, etc.) that incorporates an element that has been trimmed or cut in an innovative way.
Upload it to your blog, click on the title of that post, copy the URL, and add it to Mr. Linky below.
Tell your readers that you've created your project for the Cutting & Trimming Challenge in the Moxie Fab World and link it back to this post to encourage your readers to play along as well.
If you don't have a blog, upload your project to this flickr gallery, copy the URL to your project, and add it to Mr. Linky below.
Upload your projects by midnight EST on Monday, February 13.
The winning entries will be shown on this blog on Wednesday, February 15 and will receive an "I'm Moxie Fab" challenge winner button as well as a copy of Cool Tools.

A perfect excuse to "run" with scissors!

~Cath

PS Be sure and stop by Paper Crafts Connection to see how we're celebrating there today!

Winnerday!

2012-01-10T05:00:00.021-05:00

Ready? Set! Scroll!

The winners of the Winter Twig collection from Little Yellow Bicycle in last week's Moxie Monday are:

Rach who said...
Love this collection the colours are great - same issue as others though not being able to get everything from one place online! For me it brings some cool to my extreamly hot climate here! Lets me dream of a winter wonderland! Thanks as always for the chance to win!

and Stempelgedöns who said...
Wonderful collection. Love the colors and fabric favorites. Thanks for the chance.

The winners of the Sweet Stamp Shop stamps in last week's Moxie Fab "Stamp" of Approval post are:

Luanne who said...
sweet new company and stamps. Love that scootin' by

and Chris - Creations in Bloom who said...
wonderful stamps...I especially like the cool scoop and old school rock. Lots of fun things you can make with all of those great stamps. Thanks for a chance to win. : )

And last but certainly not least, the winner of a copy of Cool Tools in last week's Five for Friday: Cool Tools Week Begins on Monday post is:

Shobana who said...
What a peek into the issue coming out! Sigh! Would love to have a copy to keep looking into! :)

Congratumoxilations to these winners and thanks to everyone who left comments last week!

Winners, please send me an email with your addresses to cedvalson@papercraftsmag.com with the prize/post you won in the subject line in order to claim your prizes. I can't WAIT to hear from you!

Have a winner of a day,

~Cath

Oh My Moxie Fab!

2012-01-09T18:00:00.000-05:00

Paper Images

Best clouds pretty much ever,

~Cath

Cool Tools Week: The Die Cutting Challenge

2012-01-09T05:00:00.106-05:00

Look no further! Your ultimate resource for how to use paper crafting tools creatively is here!

That's right, my moxie fab friends, Cool Tools for Paper Crafters has 164 glorious pages that show you how to use your die cutting, embossing and debossing, scoring, cutting and trimming, punches, distressing, adhesive, specialty, and stamping tools in innovative ways. What's more, we even show you how to use tools from around the house that you might never have thought of using on a paper crafted project before this out-of-the-tool-box issue came along.

And as if all that weren't Paper Crafts plenty, we've also got some moxie fab ways to use your computer as a tool, and we even help you understand how to use color as a tool.

Phew! That's a whole lotta tools! Add our step-by-step instructions, photo step-outs on select projects that help take the mystery out of how to create special effects with your tools, the low-down on what your "essential" tool kit should contain, as well as some amazing storage ideas, and I tell you what--this is one special issue you simply can't afford to miss!

Which is also why we've got such a fun celebration planned for you here in the Moxie Fab World as well as on Paper Crafts Connection, and I can't WAIT to get this party started!

We begin with a challenge--the Die Cutting Challenge. As it says in the introduction to this section in the magazine, From bold images to fun sentiments and alphabets, die cutting has never been more popular--especially when most die cut machines can cut through mediums like felt, fabric, vinyl, and much more. Whether you own a manual or electric die cut machine, [we've] got projects you'll be "die-ing" to try.

I couldn't have said it better myself (so I didn't even try.) ;)

Let me show you what I mean:

Elegant Thank You Card by Kimberly Crawford, p. 19

Moxie Fab Alert: I love the way Kimberly has treated the die-cut butterfly in this card. She used color as the creative design treatment to give it some serious pizazz!

Apple for the Teacher Card by Betsy Veldman, p. 17

Moxie Fab Alert: Not only is this a supah fun card, but I love the effect Betsy achieves in layering the core of the apple. By decreasing the size of the apple cores on her digital die cut machine and stitching them together, the three-dimensional effect is, well, simply moxie fab!

Floral Congrats Card by Julia Stainton, p. 23

Moxie Fab Alert: One of my favorite uses of die-cut machines is the simplest--die-cut a solid and put it on a solid. Kapow! Wham! Bring on the bold and the beautiful!

Whaddayatink? Can you create a paper crafted project that uses die-cuts in an innovative way? If so, here are the details you'll need to play along:

Create a paper crafted project (card, gift bag, tag, layout, home decor item, mini-book cover, etc.) that incorporates a die-cut element in an innovative way.
Upload it to your blog, click on the title of that post, copy the URL, and add it to Mr. Linky below.
Tell your readers that you've created your project for the Die Cutting Challenge in the Moxie Fab World and link it back to this post to encourage your readers to play along as well.
If you don't have a blog, upload your project to this flickr gallery, copy the URL specific to your project, and add it to Mr. Linky below.
Upload your projects by midnight EDT on Monday, February 13.
The winning entries will be shown on this blog on Wednesday, February 15 and will receive an "I'm Moxie Fab" challenge winner button as well as a copy of Cool Tools.

Party on!

~Cath

Oh My Moxie Fab!

2012-01-08T18:00:00.000-05:00

No End to Gardens

A dream of a bloom,

~Cath

Oh My Moxie Fab!

2012-01-07T18:00:00.000-05:00

The whole kit 'n kaboodle,

~Cath

Oh My Moxie Fab!

2012-01-06T18:00:00.000-05:00

Vintage Rose Garden

A 2.5 million dollar reminder to make an appointment to get 'em squished this year,

~Cath

Five for Friday: Cool Tools Week Begins on Monday!

2012-01-06T08:10:00.001-05:00

Hot off the presses, Cool Tools for Paper Crafters, your go-to resource for how to create moxie fab paper crafted projects using the hottest tools in the industry, is here to inspire you!

From die-cut machines to embossing tools to cutting tools to punches to adhesives to stamping tools, this 164-page issue will give you more creative ideas on how to use your favorite paper crafting gadgets and gizmos than you ever thought possible!

And not only that, but next week here in the Moxie Fab World and on our sister blog, Paper Crafts Connection, we'll be celebrating BIG TIME with challenges, inspiration, and prizes, prizes, prizes!

Allow me to whet your whistle just a smidge. Here are five yummies from the issue that are a mere taste of what you'll find inside the pages of its folds. Check it:

Fun Flowers Birthday Card by Tanis Giesbrecht, p. 81

Moxie Fab Alert: In this joyful card, Tanis shows us how to stamp on masking tape as part of our Adhesives section.

For You Photo Tag by Julia Stainton, p. 99

Moxie Fab Alert: In this thoughtful and oh-so-gorgeous tag, Julia shows us how to use the i-top by Imaginisce on a photo.

Pals Card by Teri Anderson, p. 135

Moxie Fab Alert: Hailing from our section on household tools entitled Around the House, the secret to this fun, bright card is the use of an emery board to create the distressed effects.

Shape Thanks Card by Jennifer McGuire, p. 19

Moxie Fab Alert: In this dreamy card created from watercolor paper, Jennifer has taken her design to the next level by creating a unique card shape by using a die-cut machine.

Award Ribbon Hoop by Julie Campbell, p. 37

Moxie Fab Alert: One of the trendiest projects I've seen recently, this moxie fab shows us how to use scoring to create the medallion Julie has so expertly placed on this hoop hoop hoop of a project!

What's that? Is that your eyebrows rising on your face as you ponder this fascinating concept? I can see your hand coming up to your cheek in a gesture of intrigue, your finger tapping as you consider its possibilities. I can sense your curiosity as I leave you with just these five projects, begging for more...

And more you shall have beginning on Monday of next week. In the meantime, leave me a comment by midnight EST on Sunday, January 8 and I'll draw one random lucky to win a copy of this moxie resourceful issue!

Cool Tools rules!

~Cath

Oh My Moxie Fab!

2012-01-05T18:00:00.000-05:00

French Knot

The new owl,

~Cath

Moxie Fab "Stamp" of Approval: Sweet Stamp Shop

2012-01-05T05:00:00.048-05:00

Today, in our first Moxie Fab "Stamp" of Approval of 2012, I've got some "sweets" from the Sweet Stamp Shop. Relatively new to the stamping scene, these fun and cute, retro and hip, funky and spunky stamp sets will add some moxie pizazz to everyone's collection. Check it:

You're with me on this, right? If so, leave me a comment by midnight EST on Sunday, January 8 and I'll draw two luckies to receive everything you see here today!

Stamp me happy,

~Cath

PS Speaking of stamping, I've got a post on Paper Crafts Connection today that expounds on the inky joy that is the new Paper Crafts column, Stamp It! Techniques. Hope to see you there!

Oh My Moxie Fab!

2012-01-04T18:00:00.000-05:00

To build a fire,

~Cath

The Map to Your Heart Challenge

2012-01-04T05:00:00.000-05:00

Hello my moxie fab friends! I can't tell you how excited I am to introduce you to our first challenge of the new year, straight from the January/February Moxie Fabs column which is all about the hot, hot trend of paper crafting with maps!

Whether you're repurposing an outdated atlas, borrowing from an heirloom collection, or utilizing a brand new piece of patterned paper, using maps in your paper crafting is nothing short of all the rage.

Check out these inspiring uses of maps in the wide, wide world:

Not on the High Street

Oh my endless possibilities! There are sooooo many things that you can do with maps! Are your creative wheels spinning, friends? I'd be willing to bet that you've got a dozen map ideas buzzing through your minds as we speak! And because maps are typically made of paper--ohmyohmyohmy!--just think of all the things you could do!

To jump-start your creativity even further, here are three examples of how designers approached this trend in the column:

Lost Without You Card by Jessica Witty, p. 30

Moxie Fab Alert: Not only is this a gorgeous card that uses a real map, but its sentiment is a perfect example of how a play on words can enhance the meaning of a card.

Floral Map Thank You Card by Julia Stainton, p. 30

Moxie Fab Alert: While maps lend themselves quite well to clever and punny sentiments, they also can be used to create focal point design elements for any and all occasions.

Best is Yet to Be Card by Kim Kesti, p. 28

Moxie Fab Alert: One of my all-time favorite cards EVER, I just love the way Kim has played on maps and the direction they take us, "looking" into the future, and adding additional trends such as sunglasses and wood grain.

Whaddayasay? Are you ready to try your hand at incorporating maps into your paper crafted projects? If so, here are the details you'll need to get your project on the map:

Create a paper crafted project (card, gift bag, tag, layout, home decor item, mini-book cover, etc.) that incorporates a map/s in an innovative way.
Upload it to your blog, click on the title of that post, copy the URL, and add it to Mr. Linky below.
Tell your readers that you've created your project for the Map to Your Heart Challenge in the Moxie Fab World and link it back to this post to encourage your readers to play along as well.
If you don't have a blog, upload your project to this flickr gallery, copy the URL to your project, and add it to Mr. Linky below.
Upload your projects by midnight EDT on Monday, January 23.
The winning entries will be shown on this blog on Wednesday, February 1 and will receive an "I'm Moxie Fab" challenge winner button as well as a truly moxie fab prize.

Ready? Set! Let's get mappy!

Putting this challenge on the map,

~Cath

Oh My Moxie Fab!

2012-01-03T18:00:00.001-05:00

Army of Colour

Are you? I'm just trying to be happy with what already is...

~Cath

Tuesday Trigger: By the Numbers

2012-01-03T12:00:00.000-05:00

French Knot

It's Tuesday Trigger time! Load up your approaches to this moxie fab Trigger following these fun-tastic deets:

Create a paper crafted project that is inspired by this week’s Trigger and post it to your blog by Sunday, January 15. (It's a two-weeker!)
Then, click on the title of your blog post, copy the URL at the top, and link it using Mr. Linky below.
Please show the Trigger on your blog and link back to the Tuesday Trigger to encourage your readers to play along as well.
Please include a statement as to how and why you were inspired as sometimes it isn't easy to tell. :)
If you don't have a blog, post your project to this flickr group and link it to Mr. Linky as soon as you've grabbed the URL.

Easy peasy and TONS o' fun!Congrats to this week's Trigger Targets who posted their interpretations to last week's Trigger, Stripe-tastic! Make sure you check out their projects and leave them some love on their blogs!

& Trinh

Targets, please send me an email at cedvalson@papercraftsmag.com requesting the Trigger Target badge:

...and I'll tell you how to get all linked up! If you've already received a badge, feel free to add this one to your list!

Congrats also to this week's random winner:

Colleen Dietrich

Colleen, send me an email with your address and I'll hook you up with a moxie fab prize from my moxie magical prize drawer as my thanks to you for playing along!

Ready? Set! Let the linking begin!

~Cath

Winnerday!

2012-01-03T05:00:00.040-05:00

Ready? Set! Scroll!

(WARNING: There are so many winners, this could take a while! LOL)

The winners of the Dear Mr. Claus collection from Cosmo Cricket in the December 18 Moxie Monday are:

Tammy who said...
I adore the sweet Snowman and Mr. Claus! It reminds me of my childhood...yes, very vintage! LOL

and Clare D. who said...
I love that there is black in this Christmas collection! Thanks for the chance to win!

The winners of the stamps from Hero Arts in the December 22 Moxie Fab "Stamp" of Approval post are:

Jenn Greeley who said...
Love the simplicity of White Christmas. However, Sending Holiday Cheer is super cute!

and jackie 4124 who said...
Wonderful stamps for the holidays

And last but certainly not least, the winners of the comment-to-wins from last week's Countdown to 2012 posts are:

Geri who said...
Thanks for previewing all the favs! I am off to the sidebard to cast my vote

Chunyuan who said...
Thanks for the inspiration, Cath. I love the rainbow bright, Farm fresh and Girly and gutsy. Happy holidays!

Larajc who said...
great picks! I love that you do this! Refreshes my memory of the goodies you have posted throughout the year!

Rachel who said...
I like the pennants the best!

Miriam Prantner who said...
My vote is for cityscapes, chevrons, and decorative tape

Savannah O'Gwynn who said...
I voted for November, August, and March:) LOVE! THANKS for the chance to win:)

and debpaint16 who said...
I Just Love Moxie Fab World!! You have your pulse on everything New & Exciting!!! Your pics that you post are always Fabulous!!! Please just keep doing what you do!! Happy New Year!!!

Congratumoxilations to ALL these winners and thanks to everyone who left comments the last two weeks!

Winners, please send me an email with your addresses to cedvalson@papercraftsmag.com with the prize/post you won in the subject line by Sunday, January 8 in order to claim your prizes. I can't WAIT to hear from you!

Have a winner of a day,

~Cath

Oh My Moxie Fab!

2012-01-02T18:00:00.005-05:00

Moxie to the fab!

~Cath

Moxie Fabber of the Week: Lynn Mangan

2012-01-02T12:00:00.001-05:00

Step right up and get to know our Moxie Fabber of the Week, Lynn Mangan!

When I think of Lynn, the word that first comes to mind is "sweet." Her style is sweet (bright, fresh, and fun, too!), her comments are sweet, her smile is super sweet, and she is a sweet supporter of her fellow paper crafters here in the Moxie Fab World as well as out in the broader realm of craftdom. Her "sweet" style is often a winner here in the Moxie Fab World, and I'm super excited to introduce her to you today in our first Moxie Fabber of the Week feature of the new year.

Ready? Set! Take it away, Lynn!

What is your full name? What is your screen name? Do you have a blog or an on-line gallery?

Hi there…first…I’d just like to say WOW! Thank you, Cath, for choosing me as a Moxie Fabber of the Week. I’m beyond thrilled and still in shock! Now…my name is Lynn Mangan. Quite often you’ll see my screen name as The Mango Boys and Me. My blog can be found here.

Describe yourself in three short, fun sentences.

I am extremely blessed to be married to my high school sweetheart, Patrick, for almost twenty years. We have four beautiful boys, Ryan, Jonathon, Collin and Marcel; thus…the name The Mango Boys and Me. The boys are the light of my life, keeping me busy and constantly entertained.

How long have you been paper crafting? How did you get involved in paper crafting? What is your favorite aspect of paper crafting?

This is a tough one. I’ve been paper crafting for a really long time! “Officially” I started scrapbooking when Ryan was first born over 14 years ago. He was in his bouncy seat as I was hosting a Creative Memories party. Soon after, I got started on Stampin’ Up! products and the rest is history. I’ve been card making and scrapbooking consistently for 14 years.

My favorite part about paper crafting is sending cards to others. I love making connections with people, letting them know I’m thinking of them if they’re going through a difficult time, celebrating a special occasion or saying thank you.

What do you like most about the Moxie Fab World? What is your favorite feature and why?

My favorite feature is Cath’s Out & About in Moxie Fab World. I love that she highlights a variety of styles when she visits various blogs linked on the Moxie Fab World Blogroll. It gives me a chance to see new blogs that I’ve never visited before.

I also love that the posts aren’t all about crafting, there is life inspiration, too. It always seems like there is a message I need to hear in one of the links she has posted for us. I appreciate that she takes us beyond crafting and talks about real life worries and inspiration.

We are all moxie fab in our own way. Name one thing that makes you moxie fab.

I think I’ve come back and re-read this no less than twenty times trying to come up with an answer. I think the thing that makes me moxie fab is that I’m fiercely loyal and loving.

How would you describe your style? Provide an image of a paper crafted project that illustrates that style best.

I try different things out, but I am my happiest with my creations when I go with clean and simple. I’ve tried vintage, but it just never quite works! So…clean and simple with a love of patterned paper, too. You’ll see a mix of what I would call traditional and clean and simple. Hope that makes sense! I really love layering stamps and this card set that was shown in the November/December 2011 issue of Paper Crafts magazine is one of my favorites.

Here is a card with a little bit simpler stamp layering:

Who is your favorite manufacturer and why? What is your favorite all-time collection and why? Have you created a paper crafted project using this collection? If so, feel free to attach it.

I love a lot of stamp companies, but if I had to choose one, I choose Verve. I tend to gravitate towards sentiment stamps and their sentiments and verses are beautiful, not to mention that their customer service is unbelievable. They ship fast and always add in an extra stamp as a thank you. Their stamps get a lot of ink time at my house! It’s really hard to choose a favorite set, but one that has been seeing a lot of ink time is Words of Wisdom. Here are two different CAS graduation cards. I adore the mix of fonts on the sentiment.

Paper Crafts magazine has produced a great number of special issues over the years. Which has been the most inspiring to you and why?

Cath – this is an awesome question and a great reason to look through my mountain of Paper Crafts magazines again! My favorite is Holiday Cards & More.

I love that this issue has a lot of projects in addition to cards. I typically stick to cards, but during the holidays like to make a few projects. There was so much inspiration. I tabbed a ton of pages and CASEd quite a few of the fabulous projects and cards.

Do you consider yourself to be a card maker or a scrapbooker? If you are a card maker, why do you prefer it over scrapbooking? If you are a scrapbooker, why do you prefer it over card making? If you do both, what do you like about card making that is different from scrapbooking and/or vice versa?

I definitely am a card maker…and I squeeze in my scrapbooking! I love the sense of accomplishment of making a card. When I am making cards, I’m truly relaxed. It’s my time to unwind and let my worries go for a bit. I also love that making cards for me is quicker than making a scrapbook layout. Scrapbooking takes me a while to get my creative juices flowing so I typically need more time before I can get started. When I’m scrapbooking though, I love to journal. Capturing our family memories, the funny things my boys are saying and watching them grow is so important to me.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

She's pretty sweet, right? I'd like to thank Lynn for taking the time and trouble to answer my questions today, for her kind words about me and the Moxie Fab World, as well as to thank her for her support of the Moxie Fab World and for making my day brighter each time she participates--whether that's in the form of a moxie fab project or a thoughtful comment, there's always something sweet about Lynn!

Be sure and leave Lynn some love, Moxie Fabber style, friends!

Moxie Fabbers rock,

~Cath

Moxie Monday: Winter Twig from Little Yellow Bicycle

2012-01-02T05:00:00.000-05:00

Welcome to our first Moxie Monday of the new year, friends! I'm moxie excited to present this joyful winter collection from one of my favorite manufacturers, Little Yellow Bicycle, Winter Twig. Not only am I crazy as a dancing snowflake about its blue, white, brown, and green color palette, but I am as nuts as a squirrel over its stylized winter icons: pine cones, ice skates, snow angels, mittens, birds, and snowflakes. Check it:

Winter Woods/Winter Wishful

Blue Forest/Winter Pom Pom

Winter Twig/Snowy Aspen

Winter Plaid/Mocha Java Sweater

Frosty Diamond Dust/Blue Tea

Winter Stripe/Wood You Be Winter

Winter Words/Brown Skate Scratch

Snowy Window/Ski Sweater

Skate Scratch/Winter Blue

Fabric Favorites

Fresh Verse Cardstock Stickers

Cardstock Stickers

Snowflake Buttons

Canvas Borders

Chipboard Shapes

Doesn't this line just make you want to lace up some skates and frolic in the winter wonderland with all your friends of the forest? If so, leave me a comment by midnight EST on Sunday, January 8 and I'll draw two random luckies to receive an assortment of this collection!

Gathering my winter warmies to join you at the nearest frozen pond,

~Cath

Oh My Moxie Fab!

2012-01-01T18:00:00.004-05:00

Farmhouse from October Afternoon

...2012!

~Cath

Countdown to 2012: YOUR 2011 Favorites!

2012-01-01T08:15:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year, Moxie Fabbers! I can't think of a better way to kick off the new year than with a look at your favorites from 2011! Here are the results of all the voting you've done in our week-long year in review, Countdown to 2012. Check it:

Your three favorite collections:

Curio from BasicGrey

For the Record from Echo Park Paper

Your three favorite Tuesday Triggers:

Rainbow Bright

Oh So Lovely

Winter White

Your three favorite challenge-winning projects:

Natalie Dever

Courtney Kelley

Cathy Fong

Your three favorite stamp sets:

Perfect Pennants from Gina K. Designs

Life is Good from Technique Tuesday

Road Trip from Papertrey Ink

Your three favorite trends:

Sewing Icons (card by Kelley Eubanks)

Chevrons (card by Kim Kesti)

Gray is the New Black (card by Julia Stainton)

And last but certainly not least, your three favorite Moxie Fab World banners from 2011 are:

March

January

July

And there you have it, friends, a look at the past year in anticipation of the next. And while the past year has been chock full of inspiring fun, I can't WAIT to see what's in store for all of us in 2012!

What has been your favorite thing about the Moxie Fab World during 2011? What are you hoping to see more of during 2012? Leave me a comment by midnight EST tonight, and I'll draw one random lucky to win something moxie fab from my moxie magical prize drawer!

Let's make 2012 simply moxie fab!

~Cath

Oh My Moxie Fab!

2011-12-31T18:00:00.006-05:00

Liquid in Plastic

Some New Year's Eve fireworks for you,

~Cath

Countdown to 2012: Vote for Your Favorite 2011 Moxie Fab World Banner!

2011-12-31T05:00:00.043-05:00

Here it is! Your opportunity to vote for your favorite Moxie Fab World banner of 2011! Thanks to our art director, Matt Anderson, for doing such a "banner" job on all of these month after month!

January:

February:

March:

April:

May:

June:

July:

August:

September:

October:

November:

December:

Which are your top three favies? Vote for your three most inpsirings in the poll box beneath my picture in the upper right hand sidebar of this blog, THEN leave me a comment by midnight EST on Sunday, January 1 and I'll draw one lucky to win something moxie fab from my moxie magical prize drawer.

I'll have a special blog post for you tomorrow in which I show you YOUR favies from 2011 from all the voting you've done this past week! (AND, there will be a new blog banner!)

Happy last day of the year, Moxie Fabbers! Be safe and have fun!

I'll drink to that!

~Cath

Oh My Moxie Fab!

2011-12-30T18:00:00.003-05:00

Fun{tache}tic from The Craft's Meow

Winter joy,

~Cath

Countdown to 2012: The Top 10 Trends of 2011 in the Moxie Fab World

2011-12-30T08:23:00.001-05:00

We're getting down to the wire, friends! 2011 is rapidly coming to a close and we've still got 2 more countdowns to go before ringing in the new year on Sunday with the results of all the voting you've been doing this week.

So, let's get right to it, shall we? Today I've selected the Top Ten Trends of 2011 from everything we've seen here in the Moxie Fab World. Check it:

In January, we learned that Gray is the New Black:

Julia Stainton

In February, we witnessed The Appearance of Cameos:

Danielle Flanders

We also [Got] Daring with Decorative Tape:

Kristen Swain

In March, we discovered that Cityscapes Are on the Rise:

Beth Opel

And we also got In My Beautiful Balloon:

Courtney Kelley

In April, we explored the magic of tissue paper:

Heidi Van Laar

In May, we got Chevron Chic:

Kim Kesti

In June, we were in stitches about sewing icons, and celebrated in the I'm Sew Excited Challenge:

Kelley Eubanks

In July, we were Fanatical About Botanical:

Clare Buswell

And last but certainly not least, in November, we Champion[ed] Award Medallions:

JJ Bolton

So there you have it, friends, a recap of the Top 10 Moxie Fab Trends we covered in 2011. Which are your favies? I'd love to hear! Vote for your three most inpsirings in the poll box beneath my picture in the upper right hand sidebar of this blog, THEN leave me a comment by midnight EST on Sunday, January 1 and I'll draw one lucky to win something moxie fab from my moxie magical prize drawer.

I'll post the results of all your favies on a special post on New Year's Day!

Counting it down,

~Cath

PS Be sure and tune in tomorrow for your chance to vote on your favorite Moxie Fab World banners of 2011!

Oh My Moxie Fab!

2011-12-29T18:00:00.005-05:00

The Fancy

Kissing clothespin,

~Cath

Countdown to 2012: The Top 10 Trendiest Stamp Sets of 2011

2011-12-29T05:00:00.086-05:00

Holy difficult decisions, Batman! When you consider that I've shown 210 of the moxie fabbiest stamps and stamp sets in the industry in our Moxie Fab "Stamp" of Approval posts this past year, you can imagine the difficulty I had in narrowing it down to merely the Top 10 Trendiest Stamp Sets of 2011.

But whittle it down I have, and I can't wait to share my list with you so you can start voting yourselves!

Ready? Set! Check it:

Wonderful World by Lizzie Anne Designs

Farm Fresh from Ippity by Unity

Road Trip from Papertrey Ink

Perfect Pennants by Gina K. Designs

Hey Girlfriend from Cosmo Cricket by Unity

Life is Good by Technique Tuesday

940140 by Ruby Violet from Prima

Clear to See from Lawn Fawn

Say Cheese from Maya Road

How'd I do? Do you see some moxie fab trends represented here? If so, vote for your three favies in the poll box beneath my picture in the upper right hand sidebar of this blog (after I've had time to wake up and add it, that is!) THEN leave me a comment by midnight EST on Sunday, January 1 and I'll draw one lucky to win something moxie fab from my moxie magical prize drawer.

I'll post the results of all your favies on a special post on New Year's Day!

Counting it down,

~Cath

Oh My Moxie Fab!

2011-12-28T18:00:00.004-05:00

Be Our Guest from Jenni Bowlin:

This takes embossing to a whole new level,

~Cath

Countdown to 2012: The Top 10 Trendiest Challenge-Winning Projects in the Moxie Fab World

2011-12-28T05:00:00.000-05:00

My job here in the Moxie Fab World is to inspire you on a daily basis. If at any given time I show you something in a blog post that urges you to move from your computer to your craft table, then I've accomplished one of my main goals. Thing is, all y'all inspire me on a daily basis as well. Whether it's a kind word or a witty comment or a supportive greeting or a knock-down kick-in-the-pants drool-worthy project, I am always inspired by you.

And today, I've taken some time to narrow down the Top 10 Trendiest Challenge-Winning Projects in the Moxie Fab World for 2011. These projects are the best of the best, friends, and while it was oh-so-difficult to narrow the field, I'm pretty stoked about my choices. Check it:

Karen Baker from the Appearance of Cameos Challenge

Natalie Dever from the In My Beautiful Balloon Challenge

Alicia Thelin from the Chevron Chic Challenge

Julia Stainton from the I'm Sew Excited Challenge

Susan B. from the Stamp It! Cards Week Challenge

Laura Bassen from the Fabulous Felt Challenge

Courtney Kelley from the Card Ideas for Paper Crafters Week Challenge

Jennifer Rzasa from the Championing Award Medallions Challenge

Cathy Fong from the 365 Cards Week Challenges

Lindsay Amrhein from the 365 Cards Week Challenges

Aren't these projects oh-so-trendilicious and inspiring, friends? Now's your chance to vote for your three favies in the poll box beneath my picture in the upper right hand sidebar of this blog (after I've had time to wake up and add it, that is!) THEN leave me a comment by midnight EST on Sunday, January 1 and I'll draw one lucky to win something moxie fab from my moxie magical prize drawer.

I'll post the results of all your favies on a special post on New Year's Day!

Counting it down,

~Cath

Oh My Moxie Fab!

2011-12-27T18:00:00.004-05:00

Haiga

Pretty little blue birds all in a row,

~Cath

Countdown to 2012: The Top 10 Most Popular Tuesday Triggers

2011-12-27T05:00:00.072-05:00

It's Tuesday, friends, so it only makes sense that we should count down the most popular Tuesday Triggers of 2011.

Based on how many participants they each had, here are the winning images.

#10. Garden Glory:

#9. Farm Fresh:

#8. Oh So Lovely:

#7. Girly & Gutsy:

#6. Winter White:

#5. An Idea in Yellow:

#4. Perty & Flirty:

#3. A Citrus Celebration:

#2. Sweets for the Sweet:

#1. Rainbow Bright:

Which do you think are the most inspiring? Vote for your three favies in the poll box beneath my picture in the upper right hand sidebar of this blog (after I've had time to wake up and add it, that is!) THEN leave me a comment by midnight EST on Sunday, January 1 and I'll draw one lucky to win something moxie fab from my moxie magical prize drawer.

Counting it down,

~Cath

Oh My Moxie Fab!

2011-12-26T18:00:00.004-05:00

Not only did I learn how to sew on a machine like this, I still have it!

~Cath

Countdown to 2012: The Top 10 Collections of 2011

2011-12-26T05:00:00.088-05:00

'Twas the day after Christmas, when all through the dwelling
Not a creature was stirring, just Moxie Fabbers yelling,
"It's the countdown to New Year's!" they said with a smile.
"It's the whole year in review, a la moxie fab style!"

That's right, friends! A whole week to review the year as we count down to 2012! I show you my top 10, then you vote for your top three! Let's get started before the whole house is awake, shall we?

First up? The Top Ten Collections of 2011. Here are my favies, in the order in which they appeared throughout the year (click on the links to see each collection in its entirety):

Sweetness from Pink Paislee:

Curio from BasicGrey:

For the Record from Echo Park Paper:

Social Club from Cosmo Cricket:

Amy Tangerine from American Crafts:

Memoir from Studio Calico:

Farmhouse from October Afternoon:

Random from Crate Paper:

Vintage Blue from Glitz Design:

Now it's your turn! Which do you think are the most inspiring? Vote for your three favies in the poll box beneath my picture in the upper right hand sidebar of this blog, THEN leave me a comment by midnight EST on Sunday, January 1 and I'll draw one lucky to win something moxie fab from my moxie magical prize drawer.

I'll post the results of all your favies on a special post on New Year's Day!

Counting it down,

~Cath

Oh My Moxie Fab!

2011-12-25T18:00:00.005-05:00

Vintage Rose Garden

Merry Christmas, Moxie Fabbers!

~Cath

Oh My Moxie Fab!

2011-12-24T18:00:00.007-05:00

Happy Christmas Eve,

~Cath

Oh My Moxie Fab!

2011-12-23T18:00:00.004-05:00

tinywhitedaisies

Light the night,

~Cath

Five (x3) for Friday: Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas

2011-12-23T05:00:00.067-05:00

Have yourself a merry little Christmas,

Let your heart be light

Favecrafts

From now on, our troubles will be out of sight

vi.usualize.us

Have yourself a merry little Christmas,

Make the Yule-tide gay,

Better Homes & Gardens

From now on, our troubles will be miles away.

Here we are as in olden days,

Happy golden days of yore.

HGTV

Faithful friends who are dear to us

Gather near to us once more.

Through the years

Merriest Christmas Wishes

We all will be together,

If the Fates allow

Hang a shining star upon the highest bough.

And have yourself a merry little Christmas now.

Adriiiii!

All my love to you this holiday season,

~Cath

Oh My Moxie Fab!

2011-12-22T18:00:00.003-05:00

Vintage Rose Garden

Ornaments of another variety,

~Cath

Moxie Fab "Stamp" of Approval: Hero Arts

2011-12-22T05:00:00.036-05:00

Who's ready to comment-to-win some moxie gorgeous Christmas stamps, perfect accompaniments to this joyous season? These lovelies come from my dear friends at Hero Arts, and I've got to tell you, when I first saw these at CHA Summer this past July, I was overtaken by the Christmas spirit, in spite of the Chicago humidity and heat. Check it:

White Christmas

Sending Holiday Cheer

Large Plaid Pattern

Winter Town

Aren't these just so fun and festive, friends? And Winter Town? My personal favie Christmas stamp of the entire season! You know the drill, leave me a comment by midnight EST on Sunday, December 25 and I'll draw two luckies to receive everything you see here today!

Stamp me happy holidays,

~Cath

Oh My Moxie Fab!

2011-12-21T18:00:00.002-05:00

tinywhitedaisies

Holiday happiness,

~Cath

The Card Creations: Get Inspired Week Challenge Winners

2011-12-21T05:00:00.003-05:00

I'm not sure when we've had so many challenges going on all at one time, friends, and even during this extremely busy time of year, all y'all continue to "wow" me with your approaches to whatever I manage to throw at you. And you've just got to know that you inspire me every bit as much as I hope I'm inspiring you.

As per usual, whittling it down to ten was extremely difficult. And whether you were inspired by fashion, the kitchen, pot pourri, or home decor, a sincere thanks to all of you to participated, and for making my job so deliciously difficult! And now, without further ado, the winning entries to our Card Creations: Get Inspired Week Challenges. Check it:

You're Fabulous Card by Lin

Moxie Fab Alert: This classy and elegant card is every bit as classy and elegant as the image from which it was inspired. It is classic, timeless, and simply moxie fab.

Happy 2012 Card by Larissa Heskett

Moxie Fab Alert: Taking her inspiration from the Pot Pourri inspiration photo, Larissa has created a hip, stylish, and oh-so-happy New Year's card!

Retro Christmas Card by Nina Yang

Moxie Fab Alert: The genius in this card is the way Nina has stayed true to the style of the inspiration items. It is geometric and retro. By adding a retro tree, a retro font, and a touch of red to jazz it up, Nina's card is off the retro hook!

You Mean the World Card by Gayatri

Moxie Fab Alert: You know me, I just love it when card makers take a design element and pair it with a clever sentiment. Gayatri has done this perfectly in this fabulously masculine card inspired by this common household item.

Peace on Earth Card by Chupa

Moxie Fab Alert: The beauty of inspiration items such as this hounds tooth jacket is the many different directions it takes us. While Chupa was clearly inspired by the color scheme, I also love that she's taken the ordered pattern of the hounds tooth and adapted it to the equally orderly knit pattern. And those pine cones? A perfect Nordic touch!

Hearts of Love Card by Laura Bassen

Moxie Fab Alert: I moxie love the way Laura has adapted the colors and the geometric repetition in the inspiration item and made it all her own.

My Favorite Thing Card by Katie G.

Moxie Fab Alert: What a sweet love card created from the Pot Pourri photo! I love the black and white focal point on the colorful but subtle patterned paper background, and the lace, ribbon, and stick pin add a friendly nostalgia that is simply irresistible!

Have a Great Day by SmilynStef

Moxie Fab Alert: Like Laura, Stef was inspired by the color scheme of the kitchen inspiration items. And yet, she chose to repeat a completely different pattern and paired it with an appropriately stylized sentiment, making for an equally lovely card, but with that special "Stef" spin.

Joy to the World Card by Emily Niehaus

Moxie Fab Alert: Get it? Joy to the "world"? So simple. So fun. So poignant. So moxie delightful.

'Tis the Season Card by Karolyn Loncon

Moxie Fab Alert: I nearly fell off my chair when my browser opened up to this card. There's nothing like exaggerating a design element to call attention to it, and this card plays up the hounds tooth in a moxie big way!

And there you have it, friends. Congratumoxilations to all these winners, and thanks again to everyone who gave these challenges a go!

Winners, please send me your addresses in an email to cedvalson@papercraftsmag.com with "Get Inspired Challenge Winner" in the subject line and I'll hook you up with your copy of Card Creations: Get Inspired as well as your "I'm Moxie Fab" challenge winner badges for your blogs.

It's always time to get inspired,

~Cath

Oh My Moxie Fab!

2011-12-20T18:00:00.007-05:00

Happy birthday to me! :)

~Cath

Tuesday Trigger: Stripe-tastic!

2011-12-20T12:00:00.002-05:00

Miss Moss

It's Tuesday Trigger time! Load up your approaches to this moxie fab Trigger following these fun-tastic deets:

Create a paper crafted project that is inspired by this week’s Trigger and post it to your blog by Sunday, January 1 (it's a two-weeker!)
Then, click on the title of your blog post, copy the URL at the top, and link it using Mr. Linky below.
Please show the Trigger on your blog and link back to the Tuesday Trigger to encourage your readers to play along as well.
Please include a statement as to how and why you were inspired as sometimes it isn't easy to tell. :)
If you don't have a blog, post your project to this flickr group and link it to Mr. Linky as soon as you've grabbed the URL.

Easy peasy and TONS o' fun! Congrats to this week's Trigger Targets who posted their interpretations to last week's Trigger, And a Partridge in a Pear Tree! Make sure you check out their projects and leave them some love on their blogs!

Chupa

Laura Bassen

Lisa Louten

Lorena Canto (Paperella)

& Katie G.

Targets, please send me an email at cedvalson@papercraftsmag.com requesting the Trigger Target badge:

...and I'll tell you how to get all linked up! If you've already received a badge, feel free to add this one to your list!

Congrats also to this week's random winner:

Maureen Merritt

Maureen, send me an email with your address and I'll hook you up with a moxie fab prize from my moxie magical prize drawer as my thanks to you for playing along!

Ready? Set! Let the linking begin!

~Cath

Winnerday!

2011-12-20T05:00:00.021-05:00

Ready? Set! Scroll!

The winners of the Christmas Wishes collection from Bella Blvd in last week's Moxie Monday are:

Priya Mohan who said...
Lovely papers!

and jackie 4124 who said...
Santa...I've been really good this year. Please bring me some Bella Blvd paper to put in my stocking.

The winner of the copy of 365 Cards in the comment-to-win for last week's The 365 Cards Week Challenge Winners post is:

Beatrice Lawson who said...
While they are all gorgeous, the Dare to Dream card is my favorite and one that I will unabashedly lift. Loved it!

The winners of the Waltzingmouse stamps in last week's Moxie Fab "Stamp" of Approval post are:

Lesley who said...
These are all amazing stamp sets. But if forced to choose...Candy Jar Fillers pull up a very close second to Seasonal Remedies! I can see all sorts of possibilities for these sets. Thank you so much for a chance to own these fabulous stamps! Merry Christmas to all!

and Katie who said...
I just love stamps! The candy jar stamps are great and I love that you can customize it with what candy you want inside!

And last but certainly not least, the winners of the comment-to-win in last week's Five for Friday: Your January/February Sneak Peek is:

Annette Witherspoon ♥ who said...
I got my issue last week and I love the interactive card!! It got the juices flowing. I have a great idea for an interactive card that I can't wait to create.

Congratumoxilations to these winners and thanks to everyone who left comments last week!

Winners, please send me an email with your addresses to cedvalson@papercraftsmag.com with the prize/post you won in the subject line in order to claim your prizes. I can't WAIT to hear from you!

Have a winner of a day,

~Cath

Oh My Moxie Fab!

2011-12-19T18:00:00.005-05:00

It's all about the shutter speed,

~Cath

Moxie Fabber of the Week: Emily Keaton

2011-12-19T12:00:00.123-05:00

Welcome to yet another inspiring installment of our weekly feature, Moxie Fabber of the Week!

I have to admit that I've been intrigued by Emily Keaton for quite a while now. An avid player in the Moxie Fab World, Emily enters nearly every challenge and Tuesday Trigger that I offer. I have loved seeing her unique approaches to said challenges, enjoyed her savvy use of the English language (she is SUCH a good writer!), and have delighted in getting to know her, albeit in the quick glance-over way that I have to approach blog reading because I have so many to cover at any given time.

Which is why, my moxie fab friends, today's interview is such a treat. Emily brings an approach to card making that is, in a word, admirable. She is no-nonsense, humble, passionate, and generous--four qualities that I happen to adore in my fellow card makers. And her sense of self in this multi-faceted hobby that has so many angles of enjoyment is so gratifying. Her card making journey has taken her to a level of confidence in her skills that inspires me to take stock of my own journey in this arena in a way that I did not expect.

So let's see how she inspires you as well, shall we? Take it away, Emily!

What is your full name? What is your screen name? Do you have a blog or an on-line gallery?

My name is Emily Keaton, and my blog is My Little Slice of Bliss. I go by the screen name ejkeaton at SplitcoastStampers and Flickr.

Describe yourself in three short, fun sentences.

I am a wife to my supportive husband, a mom to our almost-9-year-old son and almost-13-year-old daughter, and a freelance writer and editor of college math textbooks and ancillaries. You can usually find me either at my computer, in my craft space, or with my family sharing meals, game nights, household chores, movie nights, geocaching hikes, or camping trips. My family would tell you that I am a thrifty, crafty, lucky, dryly funny, detail-oriented, thankful, exacting, chocolate-loving, hot-tea-adoring homebody.

How long have you been paper crafting? How did you get involved in paper crafting? What is your favorite aspect of paper crafting?

My love affair with making things started when I was 5 years old. I distinctly remember attempting to make a pair of bedroom slippers as a Christmas present for my mom using paper and a bar of soap. (Somehow I got it into my head that wet soap would make good glue. I was wrong.) Ever since, I’ve been attempting to make all kinds of useful things, primarily from paper (and fabric, too, because I love to sew), with varying degrees of success. After the birth of our daughter in 1998, I suddenly needed waaaaay more thank you notes than I normally kept on hand. Because running out with a newborn to pick up a non-necessity like note cards was challenging to say the least, I started printing my own thank you notes at home with my computer.

I was first introduced to rubber stamping and the art of card making in 2004 by an acquaintance and demonstrator for The Angel Company who gave me a one-on-one rubber stamping workshop for my birthday. I was immediately hooked and started making all of the cards I send to friends and family. My paper creativity got a huge boost when I first discovered the stamping community of SplitcoastStampers in 2009. I entered the world of paper craft blogging in July 2010. I love the camaraderie in both of these arenas and being inspired by the many varied challenges I find in each!

I send cards all the time—thank you notes, birthday cards, anniversary cards, holiday cards of all sorts. I live far from my extended family, so dropping notes in the mail is my way of staying connected. My favorite aspect of paper crafting is being able to make something that checks so many boxes—fulfilling my own need to create, doing something that makes me happy, keeping in touch with loved ones, brightening someone’s day with a handwritten note, and making the recipient feel special by sending something I took time to make with my own hands.

What do you like most about the Moxie Fab World? What is your favorite feature and why?

You can’t make me pick just one thing that I like about the Moxie Fab World!! I love seeing new paper product lines in Moxie Monday posts and hot stamp sets in Moxie Fab “Stamp” of Approval posts. And who isn’t wowed by those awesome “tour” posts that Cath brings us from the floor of CHA? The challenges that Cath brings us are thought-provoking, unique, and fun. Tuesday Trigger challenges are the best! I always look forward to any MFW posts featuring the latest Paper Crafts publications. And who can forget Winnerday? Most of all, I enjoy Cath herself for her folksy writing style and superb photo picks for inspiration.

We are all moxie fab in our own way. Name one thing that makes you moxie fab.

Hmmm. This one stumped me because basically I'm a simple gal. When I started off down the road on my extended paper crafting journey, I made a conscious decision to avoid investing in expensive tools and equipment. There just isn't money in our budget or space in our house for extras like these. So, no dies, embossing folders, die cutting machines, or Copic markers for me. You won’t see expensive embellishments on my projects, and you’ll rarely see the latest papers or stamps (unless I happen to win something current). I do have some punches and rely on colored pencils or watercolor painting for coloring images, but I just don’t have the resources to make fancy cards with the latest and greatest tools and supplies. I make a lot of my own embellishments. I look for creative design solutions, make do with what I've got, or do without. I like raiding my sewing supplies (some of which are vintage supplies I inherited from my grandmother’s sewing basket) for embellishments, repurposing “stuff” that drifts into my life, and keeping my eyes open for clearance bin steals and dollar store bargains. So maybe what makes me moxie fab is the budget-minded approach I bring to my card making.

Name a paper crafter who inspires you. Why are you drawn to his or her work?

I am inspired by so very many paper crafters! I am notoriously awful at making decisions, so narrowing my list down to just one was really hard. I would say that the paper crafter who inspires me most is Colleen Dietrich. Colleen not only inspired me to start my blog, she has inspired me to look for design inspiration everywhere. I love her “Inspired By” posts where she shows a photo of something she noticed out in the real world—a child’s bathing suit, a business’s sign, a print hanging in a doctor’s waiting room, a priest’s stole—and how it sparked an idea for a stunning card. It was definitely because of Colleen that I started compiling my own design inspiration file. I pull it out often!

How would you describe your style? Provide an image of a paper crafted project that illustrates that style best.

Style? What style? I am pretty much all over the board when it comes to style. I like to try all kinds of approaches when I make cards. I suppose that makes me a jack of all trades but master of none. Whatever. Here are a few of my favorite projects. If you can find a common theme or style trend, will you please let me know?

Paper Crafts magazine has produced a great number of special issues over the years. Which has been the most inspiring to you and why?

My favorite Paper Crafts special issue is 350 Cards & Gifts. I love to make my own gifts to give to family and friends, and this issue is just overflowing with fabulous ideas. I rarely go more than a couple of weeks without picking it up to thumb through for gift ideas. I must admit that the recently published 365 Cards also has a very special place in my heart because it contains my first two cards ever published with Paper Crafts!

Attach an image of a paper crafted project of which you are the most proud or that means the most to you. Include a brief statement that explains why.

Vintage-style button cards have been so trendy this past year. I loved the look of the new button-card stamp sets I was seeing, but they were beyond my reach. So I came up with my own button cards to use on card projects! I poked around in my grandmother’s old sewing basket and rounded up a stack of fantastic vintage button cards. I’m really proud of this card because I used one of my grandma’s button cards for the first time—and those buttons I stitched on all came from her stash, too. When I gave this card to my mom for Mother’s Day, she was tickled pink to see her mom’s supplies in use again.

I’m also really proud of this card because after playing in the Tuesday Trigger challenges here in the Moxie Fab World for over a year, it earned me my very first Trigger Target badge!! I can’t tell you how much I’d been hoping for one of those. Now I can die a happy woman—well, not just yet, but you know what I mean. ;)

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

I'd like to thank Emily for taking the time and trouble to answer my questions today, and to thank her as well for the kind words she said about me and the Moxie Fab World. I know, this part of these posts always tends to sound the same over time, but it always comes straight from my heart. I also am in complete and utter awe with the way Emily is able to maximize her product by finding innovative ways to meet her creative needs with what she has on hand, aren't you friends? Talk about inspiring!

Be sure and leave your own brand of love for Emily today before you go, Moxie Fabber style!

Moxie Fabbers rock!

~Cath

PS Today is the last day to enter your approaches to our suite of challenges celebrating the release of Card Creations: Get Inspired. The winners will be announced (and celebrated!) on Wednesday.

Moxie Monday: Dear Mr. Claus from Cosmo Cricket

2011-12-19T05:00:00.062-05:00

One of my all-time favie Christmas collections, Dear Mr. Claus from Cosmo Cricket takes original vintage images, folk-inspired patterns, and a saturated color palette that causes me to dance like sugar plum fairies on opening night. I mean, my friends, this collection has a whistling Santa. Whistling, I tell you! What on earth is not to love about that? Check it:

I don't know about you, but this line makes me want to whistle right along with Dear Mr. Claus! You know the drill, leave me a comment by midnight EST on Sunday, December 25 saying what you like most about this line and why and I'll draw two random luckies to win a Collage Kit as my thanks for your input!

Whistling while I work,

~Cath

Oh My Moxie Fab!

2011-12-18T18:00:00.003-05:00

Candy Jar Christmas Fillers

Special delivery,

~Cath

Oh My Moxie Fab!

2011-12-17T18:00:00.005-05:00

We Heart It

Snow!

~Cath

Oh My Moxie Fab!

2011-12-16T18:00:00.004-05:00

I Need Nice Things

A thoroughly modern Christmas tree,

~Cath

Five for Friday: Your January/February Sneak Peek!

2011-12-16T05:00:00.114-05:00

If you're like me, you have so many things on your to-do list right now that you can hardly imagine that there will be life after Christmas Day. There is one inspiring reminder that life will resume after the holidays, however, and that is the January/February 2012 issue of Paper Crafts magazine.

And friends, if the cover is any indication of the deliciousness that can be found inside, then I think it's safe to say that this issue is a definite keeper.

And since I have had the advantage of going through it with a fine-toothed eye over the past few days, I can tell you that that is, indeed, most definitely the case. With a brand new stamping column, tweaks to our content that have come from our Readers' Survey, and features that you are going to adore, this premier issue of 2012 is proof positive that the center of our focus is YOU, our dear reader. Check it:

Hospitality Card by Betsy Veldman, p. 43

Moxie Fab Alert: This g-o-r-g-e-o-u-s card is from our Cure for the Winter Blues feature in which we highlight even more gorgeous projects that focus on trendy shades of blue.

You Color My World Card by Amy Wanford, p. 51

Moxie Fab Alert: Interactive cards are a ton of fun, especially for Valentine's Day. This is just one cutie example from our Interactive Valentines feature which is chock full of cards that have to be acted upon in order to get the full experience. From slides to pull-outs to spinners to shakers to a bunch of other action items, this is one feature that will move you.

Coolest Friend Gift Bag by Kim Kesti, p. 25

Moxie Fab Alert: If there's one thing we know how to do well at Paper Crafts magazine, it's to show inspiring creations from a sketch. In our ever-popular Go-to Sketches column, we show you 5 inspiring ways to approach 2 completely different sketches. Here, Kim Kesti has made some magic from her own sketch design, and if you look at the cover really closely, you'll see that Betsy Veldman interpreted the sketch in an equally delightful way.

Out of This World Card by Chan Vuong, p. 67

Moxie Fab Alert: Valentine's Day is so much fun, and we make it quick and easy by showing you some fun projects that you can make for all your sweethearts in five steps or less.

Flower Birthday Card by Becky Garrison, p. 77

Moxie Fab Alert: I absolutely gasped with delight when I saw this gorgeous card in our supah fun feature Party Store Finds. Who knew that something so amazing could be created with party store favorites such as crepe paper and doilies? For a ton more ideas on how to create moxie fab paper crafted projects using these and other party store finds such as straws, cupcake liners, noise makers, candles, and more, turn to page 69.

And there you have it, friends, your sneak peek of the January/February issue, on sale now! I'm feeling especially generous this week, so let me know what you're looking forward to the most in this issue by midnight EST on Sunday, December 18 and I'll draw one lucky to win something yummy from my moxie magical prize drawer!

It's just around the corner,

~Cath

PS Are you a subscriber? Get your copy eight times a year in your mailbox by clicking HERE or get instant gratification with no shipping costs by downloading a digital version HERE.

PPS This is your last weekend to work on the Card Creations: Get Inspired Week Challenges. Give the gift of time to yourself this holiday season, and hopefully you'll find that to be extraordinarily inspiring!

Oh My Moxie Fab!

2011-12-15T18:00:00.003-05:00

Anthology

Just one of the Bergdorf Goodman windows in NYC this holiday season,

~Cath

Moxie Fab "Stamp" of Approval: Waltzingmouse Stamps

2011-12-15T05:00:00.042-05:00

When I first saw these stamps from Waltzingmouse Stamps as they were being released in blogland, my heart skipped several beats. I mean, these images are trendy with a timeless appeal, and they absolutely tug at my festive heart strings. See what you think--and do take notes--for there will be a quiz at the end. Check it:

Nordic Winter

2011 Holiday Ornaments

Seasonal Remedies

Santa's Coming to Town

Candy Jar Christmas

And a special note for you. There are 6--count 'em--6 stamp sets for you to drool over today instead of our usual 5 simply because I couldn't leave any of these out of my offerings! An extra thanks to Waltzingmouse for their generosity!

Now for your test. And don't fret, because it's easy peasy. Say what you love most about these stamps and why by midnight EST on Sunday, December 18 and I'll draw two random luckies to win everything you see here today!

Stamp me happy,

~Cath

Oh My Moxie Fab!

2011-12-14T18:00:00.003-05:00

Felt snowflake,

~Cath

The 365 Cards Week Challenge Winners

2011-12-14T05:00:00.128-05:00

Oooo! I'm so stinkin' excited to show you the winners of our 365 Cards Week challenges, friends! As I was looking through all the entries to the Celebrating Relationships Challenge, the Celebrating Hobbies Challenge, the Pay It Forward Challenge, and the Random Fun Challenge, I couldn't get over the wide variety of approaches and styles that I encountered. In fact, that's what I love so much about our winners' circle today--the wide variety of styles and approaches. Check it:

You Make Me Smile Card by Cathy Fong

Moxie Fab Alert: Bright and fun, this card itself makes me smile!

Dare to Dream Card by Chunyuan

Moxie Fab Alert: Not only does this card have gorgeous design elements, but I love the pairing of a butterfly with the sentiment, don't you?

I'm So Sorry Card by Barb M

Moxie Fab Alert: I don't know when I've seen such a sweet pet sympathy card. The scene Barb has created is so heartfelt, and the wings on the puppy? They just make me say, "Aww."

Your Big Day Card by Chupa

Moxie Fab Alert: What can I say except gorgeous, gorgeous, gorgeous?

Friends Always Card by Judith Gowdy

Moxie Fab Alert: This card speaks to me on a deep level. It's true, there's something special about that sweet little girl in her cutie hat, but it's the watercolor flowers in the background that really call to me. It's an artful mix of mediums, the girl and the flowers, and the way they are set off by the pink ribbon and the simple sentiment are a perfect finish to this serendipitous card about friendship.

Button Wreath by Sally Sherfield

Moxie Fab Alert: The buttons in this wreath are the delicious touch that sends this card into the realm of the moxie fab!

Birthday Martini Card by Donna Polley

Moxie Fab Alert: I absolutely adore how understated this card is. The color scheme is elegant, the font is chic, and the martinis look good enough to gulp!

Good Book Card & Bookmark by Jen W.

Moxie Fab Alert: Isn't this just the cutest card and bookmark you've ever seen? I moxie love the fun color scheme, the sentiment is oh-so-true, and if you click on the link, you'll see that the bookmark is a lovely in and of itself.

You're Fun{tache}tic Card by Linsay Amrhein

Moxie Fab Alert: What a marvelous play on words perfectly paired with this playful image! Me likey! A lotty!

So these are my ten winning picks, now I'd love to hear yours. List your top 3 favies by midnight EST on Sunday, December 18 I'll draw one random lucky to win a copy of 365 Cards!

Winners, please send me your addresses in an email to cedvalson@papercraftsmag.com with "365 Cards Week Challenge Winner" in the subject line and I'll hook you up with your own copies of 365 Cards as well as your "I'm Moxie Fab" challenge winner badges for your blogs.

So, so inspired,

~Cath

PS The promotional week challenges continue with our final Moxie Fab World Challenge of the year, the Card Creations: Get Inspired Week challenges. You've got until Monday at midnight to enter all four! Hopefully you can squeeze in a little time for yourself during this busy holiday season!

Oh My Moxie Fab!

2011-12-13T18:00:00.003-05:00