Challenge #15 - Happy Lunar New Year!

Happy New Year! – Chinese New Year began on February 14th and it’s the year of the tiger! We are really going to stretch our paper crafting skills and create paper lanterns. There are a number of how-to videos on the Internet, including this one (although it's not very thorough) using recycled red envelopes (aka red packets) used to give gifts during Chinese New Year and a stapler! http://how-to-make.blogspot.com/2007/11/paper-lantern.html .  This video by Dawn is easier to follow and more like the lanterns we made in school: http://www.5min.com/Video/How-to-make-a-Paper-Lantern-77391934.  Just have fun and show us what you've got.

MsDee made these gorgeous lanterns with SEI patterned paper, pom pom ribbon and rhinestones.

Myra made her lanterns with Basic Grey's Corsage paper from the Junebug line and embellished the handle with an Asian-themed brad.

Susie made her lantern along with a stunning year of the tiger greeting card!

Finally, here is Terry's take on the lanterns.  The colors she chose are just beautiful and demonstrate just how versatile these decorative lanterns can be.

Okay, show us what you've got.  Leave a link to your creation in the comment section!

Challenge #14 - Non-Traditional Love

First, thank you to all of our followers!  We've surpassed 300!  We appreciate your comments and your participation.  If there's anything you'd like to see from our team, please leave suggestions in your comments.

For this week's challenge, we want to get ready for Valentine’s Day and create a Valentine’s day card, ATC or layout, etc. without using the traditional colors red, pink or white.  We're positive you'll come up with some fabulous projects and can't wait to see what you create!  Check out what our talented design team members came up with below.

Denise used ivory and purple glimmer paper to create this fabulous card.

Lia used distressing techniques for these gorgeous shabby chic tags!

Lisa used Stampin Up! goodies to create this beautiful cone full of hearts card!

Terry used distressing around the frame and patterned paper lettering (great faux embossing look) for her title on this charming "My Love" page layout.

Ms_Dee used Black and Gold Metallic Papers with Hot Off the Press "Dazzles" Stacked Heart Stickers and Dots & Stripes- Paper stack - (Black/Grey Polka dot paper)

Susie made these beautiful yet masculine cards using fabulous Die Cuts With a View paper and Stickles.

Please share your creations by posting a link to your project in your comment. We look forward to being inspired by you!