Duchess Designs

Duchess Deal

2009-07-20T20:56:00.002-04:00

Sorry this is so late; I'll get right to your Duchess Deal this week. You can pick up Clip Bits: Words for .99 at GDWI with this coupon code - dd_CBW99. This code will be good for an extra day since it's so late. Click HERE to pick it up.

Here's a preview.

So how has your week been?

2009-07-17T01:49:00.002-04:00

Well, we moved on Sunday the 12th. The moving truck came on the 13th. I got the kitchen unpacked and half of my bedroom before being struck down with a fever and no energy! So the last 2 days I haven't gotten much done :( Oh well, at least we have tv and internet..LOL...

Today's QP freebie is by yours truly :) It was done with Duchess Designs' Funky Funk mini kit. Make sure you check out Duchess Designs stores at Get Digi With It and Elemental Scraps! I hope everyone has a good weekend!

Image is linked to the download.

Duchess Deal

2009-07-13T09:52:00.003-04:00

Hope everyone had a wonderful weekend! I know mine was nice and relaxing. On Saturday, we took DD to the zoo and she had so much fun looking at the animals. A baby llama had just been born and he was so cute!

On to the deal for today! This would make a perfect gift for someone special. You can use these brag book QP's to make a brag book for someone you love! And you can pick them up today for .99 at GDWI using this code: dd_99HIRbrag. Click HERE to go to the store!

Here's a preview!

Templates!!

2009-07-12T09:37:00.003-04:00

I have suddenly taken a liking for templates. I find myself grabbing for a template a lot more than I ever have in the past. I LOVE them!! Duchess Designs has a great double page template.

I was browsing through the gallery at Get Digi With It and found this layout by Ellie80 using one of these Celebration Doubles Templates.

Be sure to check out this awesome template by Duchess Designs and her other great products at Get Digi With It.

Happy Scrappin'

Kim

Who's up for some funkiness?

2009-07-10T02:19:00.002-04:00

This week's QP is a funky one by CT member, Justplainbee. It was made using Duchess Designs' Funky Funk kit. Make sure to check out Duchess Designs stores at Get Digi With It and Elemental Studio Scraps!

Image is linked to the download.

Duchess Deal

2009-07-06T22:15:00.002-04:00

Yikes, sorry this is late today! Got busy again - I guess I should get more organized! LOL! I hope you all had good weekends for the 4th of July, Canada Day, or just a weekend! I'll get right to the point! You can get Buddies: Matteo for .99 at GDWI using this coupon code dd_BDmatt99. Click HERE to go to the store.

Here's a preview of the kit!

Look! I'm on time this week!

2009-07-02T04:14:00.003-04:00

LMAO! How is everyone? I guess I am o.k. I am moving in 10 days so I'm a little stressed, but scrapping helps relieve it :)

This week's Thursday freebie is 2 bracket QPs made by CT Ruby. They were made with Duchess Designs' Deco Borders, Frosted Swirls, and Touch of Class paper pack. Make sure to check out Duchess Designs' stores at Elemental Scraps and Get Digi With It!

And if you are celebrating the 4th of July, please have a fun but safe weekend!

Image is linked to the download.

Duchess Deal

2009-06-29T17:05:00.002-04:00

So sorry this is late - I just remembered about this! I had an accident earlier and it seems my brain forgot. I was sewing a dress for my DD to wear on the 4th of July and and I punctured my finger with the sewing machine needle! It is still hurting and it hurts to type too!

So, today, you can grab Buddies: Parker for .99 at GDWI using this coupon code dd_BDpk_99. Click HERE to go get it!

Hey look! I'm early today...LOL

2009-06-25T02:21:00.003-04:00

So I figured I'd make up for being so late with the last QPs. Today's QP was made by CT member, justplainbee. It was made using Duchess Designs' Deco Borders, Frosted Swirls and Touch of Class paper pack. Make sure to check out Duchess Designs' stores at Elemental Scraps and Get Digi With It!

Image is linked to the download.

Duchess Deal

2009-06-22T09:46:00.002-04:00

Well, we're finally finished with our ceiling project in our living room and I'm looking forward to getting my house in order today. Hope you had a wonderful Father's Day with your husbands and dads!

Duchess Deal for today is Girlfriends: Makenzie. Perfect for scrapping those pictures of your little girls with their daddy! You can pick it up today from GDWI for .99 using this code dd_GFMak99. Click HERE to go to the store.

Well I'm on a roll aren't I?

2009-06-21T22:24:00.002-04:00

I'm sorry! I really have no excuse this time other than I'm so forgetful! Like I always say, better late than never. So, without further ado here is your QP which was supposed to be for Thursday, but is now for Sunday..LOL..It was made with Duchess Designs Deco Borders, Frosted Swirls, and Touch of Class paper pack. The page was made by me :) Make sure you check out Maria's stores at Elemental Scraps and Get Digi With It. I hope everyone had a good weekend!

A Tribute to Dads!!

2009-06-21T08:21:00.003-04:00

It's Father's Day in the States today so I thought I would pay tribute to all the dads out there and highlight a few kits that will be perfect to scrap those special moments with Dad!

First up we have Buddies: Parker

Next up is Buddies: Austin

And the last kit that would be perfect to scrap pictures of Dad is Buddies: Kooper

I hope you have a great day with the special dads in your life. I know we have a fun filled day planned...an awesome breakfast, a day at the beach and lots of grilling!!

Happy Scrappin'
Kim

Another Rockin Layout

2009-06-20T09:00:00.000-04:00

Hi Hi Hi... Bee here with another superb CT Layout.

This week's layout was created by the ever-talented Hillary.

She used Rockin Robin to create this awesome layout.

Make sure to check out Hillary's amazing gallery by clicking on the image above.

You can grab Rockin Robin at Get Digi With It and Elemental Scraps.

Duchess Deal

2009-06-15T09:38:00.003-04:00

Well, my wonderful hubby put up our molding on our vaulted ceiling and I think he did a great job despite the fact he had never done it before. But now it's my turn to putty the holes and paint it! So, hopefully I'll get that done this week, and then my hubby said he doesn't want to do any home improvements for 3 months - so we get to rest!

Ok, here's your Duchess Deal for today! Buddies: Kooper is just .99 at GDWI with this coupon code dd_BDkoop_99. Click HERE to pick it up!

So many to choose from....

2009-06-12T16:24:00.003-04:00

Hiya... Becky here with another fabulous CT layout.

Today's layout comes from Kel...sometimes known as Monkey Chuckles. She used Rockin Robin to create this masterpiece.

You can chek out her gallery by click on the image, and you can grab Rockin Robin at Get Digi With It and Elemental Scraps.

See you next week with another CT masterpiece!

2 for 1 Thursday QPs!

2009-06-12T01:29:00.003-04:00

Well, aren't I a bad CT member? I totally forgot to post last weeks QP freebie, so you're getting last week's and today's! The first one was made by CT member kim21673. The second one was made by CT member mflott. They were made using Duchess Design's Deco Borders, Frosted Swirls, and Touch of Class paper pack. You can find these items at Get Digi With It. And don't forget to check out Maria's other store at Elemental Scraps!

Both images are linked to the downloads.....

A Touch of Class Duchess Deal

2009-06-08T10:57:00.005-04:00

Well, Monday is here again! I had a mostly relaxing weekend this week - my hubby and I decided to take a little break from home improvements to relax and hang out together. So, it was nice, but next weekend we'll be back to work installing and painting crown molding! Yikes! We're not sure how to do it!

This is the month for weddings and special occasions, so our Duchess Deal today is a Touch of Class paper pack! Perfect for scrapping those special occasion photos. These papers are really beautiful - you don't want to miss this! And you can pick them up today for .99 at GDWI using this coupon code dd_TOC_99. Just click HERE to go get it!

On time... For Once!

2009-06-06T20:39:00.003-04:00

Helloooooooooooooo!

Im here to showcase an awesome CT Layout for all to see! Today's layout is by CT member Amy. She has an amazing gallery full of incredible pages, so it is hard to choose.

I chose her layout; Gorgeous Baby Girl. She used Just Wanna Have Fun and Tear it Up Paper Tears to create this masterpiece. Both of these products are avaliable at Elemental Scraps and Get Digi With It. The image is linked to her gallery, so check it out and leave her some love!

It's You

2009-06-02T09:10:00.000-04:00

It's been awhile since I made a post here... I'm not really a blogger, I have so little words to say... and when I do start I don't know where I'm heading.... LOL... Anyway, today is a free talk so I can post anything I want and that is where the problem lies, it's so hard to think of what I can tell you guys.. well, why not I'll show you the latest layout I made... oh and I can show you some photos I would love you to see... hehe...

So, first, here's a LO I made using Funky Funk mini kit, Bread All About It and the Happy Haunting Glitter Fills .

It's You

You can get this items at Duchess Designs stores - GetDigiWithIt or ElementalScraps.

Now, some personal stuff I would love to share... last Saturday, we bought a new TV and DH bought a new toy for DD, I don't know what got into him, well, good for me it saved me a lot, lol, ... here's my DD with her new pink DS lite gadget she's been asking for a long time, she had her GameBoy Advance retire after 2 and a half years.

Guess who's playing Bomber Man, Battle City and Mario Bros. with GameBoy? It's my Mom!!! LOL.. now there's no tug-of-war, not that my DS won't fight and throw tantrum to get hold of GameBoy, but with a 2 year old, you can easily distract him with something else to play...

...see, my DS happy with the casserole and spatula!!! LOL

Oh, DH doesn't have a new gadget for himself, well, if a new 32" flat screen TV can be called a gadget, hehe, he do looks happy with it, mounting in the wall to prevent DS from any unwanted and unnecessary damages, just hope it stick to the wall like magnet.. hehe

Where does this leave me?... I'm happy seeing them happy... who do I joke... I want something new... but that's too much to ask for, since DH just got me a new Canon PowerShot A470 digicam as a mother's day present... woohoo... I always bring it with me anywhere.. and those photos above were taken by me and my cam... everyones happy!!!

-Ruby-

Does your blog need a facelift?

2009-06-01T09:58:00.004-04:00

Every weekend for the past few months, my husband and I have been remodeling our living room - taking down our old ceiling, putting up a new one, painting, etc. It's been a ton of work but I can see the end in sight! All we have left to do is install our molding and paint the trim. So hopefully in the next couple of weeks, we can finish it and enjoy some lazy weekend again!

Does your blog need a remodel? We have just the thing for you today! Today's Duchess Deal is Blog {pax}: Secret Garden. You can use the graphics included to make your blog something special! And the best part is you can grab it today for .99 at GDWI using this code: dd_paxSG_99. Click on the image to go to the store!

Super Brag Book Thursday!

2009-05-29T01:08:00.003-04:00

Hi everyone. I'm sorry I am late with today's freebie. The kids and hubby were home on Monday for Memorial Day so my week is off. I kept thinking today was Wednesday. Oops!

Today I have a super freebie for you. SIX brag book pages made by the Duchess Designs CT! These pages were made with the Buddies: Austin mini kit. Make sure you check out Duchess Designs stores at Get Digi With It and Elemental Scraps.

Download is linked to the preview.

Better late than never....

2009-05-25T22:44:00.004-04:00

I sure do stink at this...

Well I meant for this post to hit the web on Sunday ... But better late than never right?!?!?!

Duchess has some awesome new kits out and here is one I am LOVING!!!!!!!

Funky Funk is a fabulous bright kit with a buch of cute elements. You an grab it at Get Digi With It or Elemental Scraps.

One of the other things I love about this kit is that you can mix and match it with items in Rockin Robin.

Here is a layout I did using Funky Funk!!!

Enjoy... and See Ya Next Week... hopefully Ill be on time!

Duchess Deal

2009-05-24T19:48:00.005-04:00

How's everyone's long weekend? We're not doing much relaxing today, instead we are tackling the home improvement project of painting our living room. I really don't enjoy painting so I'm hoping we get it done quickly!

So the Duchess Deal for today is Just Wanna Have Fun in honor of Carey's birthday! Happy Birthday Carey! You can pick it up for .99 at GDWI using this code: dd_fun_99bl
Click on the image to go pick it up!

It's QP Thursday again!

2009-05-21T12:01:00.003-04:00

Hi everyone! Today is going to be short and sweet. Here is your next QP with the Buddies: Austin mini kit. It was made by CT member justplainbee (this time it really was..LOL.) Make sure you check out Duchess Designs' stores at Get Digi With It and Elemental Studio Scraps. I hope you all have a great day!Image is linked to the download.

New Duchess Deal!!!

2009-05-18T09:34:00.005-04:00

We had a nice relaxing weekend and it went by all too quickly. Yesterday after church, we were going to take DD swimming but when we walked outside it was WAY too cold. :( Ah, well, maybe next weekend!

Here's your Duchess Deal this week - Ink It Up!!! This is a really cool set of inked edges that give a grunge feel to your LOs! You can get it for just .99 at GDWI with this coupon code dd_ink1_blog. Click on the image to go to the shop!

And here's a LO I did using this set.

Fancy That!

2009-05-15T04:00:00.002-04:00

Hello Everyone!! My Goodness can you believe its nearly the MIDDLE of the year already!!!! How is your 365 project going? Halfway over....wow!! My littlest man turns one next month *sniff* I cant believe it! How much harder is it when you know its your last baby????

Well today I wanted to show you this ADORABLE Layout by our very own CT member Michelle (MFlott) over at elemental scraps. She has used Rockin Robinand a template by Sine.

If you would like to leave some love....do it here I am sure it will be much appreciated!!

I adore the photo mat, I love how the elements have been used simply but effectively. And the title block is just SO cute! Great Job!!

Hey hey, it's Thursday!

2009-05-14T01:43:00.002-04:00

How is everyone? I am doing o.k. Been battling with some bad headaches. I go to the doctor next week to find out why. Other then that all is well in AmyLand..lol....

Anyway, I am here to bring you your Thursday QP freebie :) Today's QP was done by CT member justplainbee. It was made by Duchess Designs' kit Buddies: Austin mini. Don't forget to check out Duchess' stores at Elemental Scraps and Get Digi With It.
Image is linked to the upload.

Monday’s Deal!

2009-05-10T23:22:00.001-04:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful Mother’s Day yesterday! My husband and son gave me breakfast in bed, a card, lovely flowers and planted some tomato plants for me. It was a great day and I was able to do some scrapbooking as well.

Today’s deal is perfect for those Mother’s Day photos – Duchess Designs Flower Book Hybrid Project. This book was so fun and easy to put together. The pages are templates you complete, then print out, cut and assemble. You end up with a unique album to showcase a relationship, event or person! This template is regularly $4.99; today only, you can pick it up for ONLY 99 CENTS!!

Don’t pass up this great deal! Just add it to your cart at Get Digi With It! and use the code: dd_mom_flwrbk

We’d love to see what you create using Duchess Designs products – be sure to post them in Duchess Designs galleries at Get Digi With It! and/or Elemental Scraps!

Happy Mother's Day!

2009-05-10T09:12:00.002-04:00

Happy Mother's Day to all of you! I hope each and everyone of you get showered with lots of love today and get to spend the day with your loved ones. We had plans of buying lots of flowers and planting them with the boys today, but we have a little one that isn't feeling good so our plans have been put on hold.

To pay tribute to all of you on this special day, I decided to showcase a few kits that would be perfect to scrap pictures from Mother's Day. Duchess Designs has a few mini kits that are perfect for all you special ladies!! You have to check out the Girlfriends Collection!

Happy Mother's Day and Happy Scrappin'

See you next week!

Kim W

Thursday QP!

2009-05-07T12:20:00.002-04:00

Wow, I can't believe it's Thursday already! Wait, I can't believe it's MAY already! Where has the year gone? I hope everyone is doing well :) Are you all getting ready for summer? LOL....

O.K. enough babbling. I bring you today's QP freebie. It's by our CT member monkey chuckles. It was made with the Buddies: Austin mini kit. You can find this kit at Get Digi With It and Maria's new store at Elemental Scraps :) I hope you all enjoy our latest collection of quick pages!

Image is linked to the download.

Duchess Deal today .99!!

2009-05-04T11:45:00.003-04:00

Hi everyone! Hope you are all well and avoiding the swine flu! My baby girl is 18 months old today and I can hardly believe it. When did she get so big?

The Duchess Deal for today is Teacher's Toolbox which includes some really cute labels that you can print out! And you can get it today for .99! Just click on the image and use this coupon code: dd_99teach! Enjoy!

{inter}National Scrap Day Weekend

2009-05-03T08:59:00.005-04:00

It finally came! After weeks and months of waiting iNSD finally came! I don't know about you but I spent some money, did lots of challenges and had loads of fun. I told my husband that I was spending the whole day on the computer and that is exactly what I did! He entertained the boys all day long so I could play! I am already looking forward to next year. Let the countdown begin.

Duchess Designs released a brand new mini for iNSD at Elemental Scraps. Do you like mini kits? Well, you can get 24 of them for one low price. How awesome is that! I just bought mine and can't wait to get "unzipped" and start working on some layouts.

Here is the mini round and round that Duchess Designs released. It is available in the Elemental Scraps 2009 Designers Samplers Mega.
Until next week...

Happy Scrapping,
Kim

2009-04-30T23:57:00.003-04:00

Sorry for the late post Ladies. Here is your thursday QP....I hope you enjoy this from the Collab Besties between Duchess Designs and Silly Beans Scraps...

photo linked to download..Enjoy:)

A Couple Photo Quick Fixes

2009-04-28T13:41:00.004-04:00

Hey! Dawn here, bringing you today's post. After a few days of gray skies and lots of rain, the sun is out in my neck of the woods! Now if it would just get a little warmer I would be blissfully happy! I am so impatient for summer to get here, but as my daughter reminded me the other day, it is just April. And around here, that means about another month or two of some warmer days and some not so warm, lol. But, at least we have been above freezing for a few weeks now.

I have been taking a photo a day for project 365, and as much as I try, sometimes the pictures just don't seem to come out the way I want them to. So, today I thought I would pass along a couple quick fixes that I have learned, to help make those photos just a bit better. The biggest problem I have seems to be under-exposing my photos. Or at least on yucky gray days, they seem to be a little dark and blah. Take this one I took the other day. I wanted to capture the green that was suddenly popping out around me. But darn if this photo lacked that pop of color I could see when I looked out the window!

PSE to the rescue! Any program will work that uses blending modes. I opened the photo and then made a duplicate so I wasn't working on my original. Then in the layers pallet I duplicated the layer (the photo), then I went into my blend modes and clicked on screen. WOW! What a difference and I could now see all that beautiful green! If it still needs a little more, just duplicate that layer and play with the opacity until it looks good to you. Once you have it how you want, flatten the image and you are set to go! Just look at the difference here!

The other problem I have although not so often is overexposed photos. Sometimes that is ok and I use them anyway because I like to blend them into my background paper. But if you want to fix that, here is how you do it. It is just the same as above, except instead of using the screen mode, you use the multiply mode. Again, duplicating and adjusting opacity until you get it how you want. Then just flatten and save. Here is the before and after of my photo.

Now you are all set to go and start using those now beautiful photos on your layouts! Have fun and be sure and let me know how this works for you! I would love to see your fixed photos. Have a great week!

An ode to Mini Kits ;)

2009-04-28T03:06:00.006-04:00

I adore mini kits....There is enough ellies & papers to make a gorgeous layout or two and I think they have so much flexibility and are brilliant value. One of the latest Duchess Designs mini kits is Funky Funk. I have made a little pressie for you....yes A FREEBIE!!! Its the first 6 months of a perpetual calendar set using Funky Funk. Need to keep track of your 365 project? Or some important scrapbook dates? Or I spose there are other lesser important things like doctors appointments you can use it for, lol! Anyway the link to download is HERE

And I used only the Funky funk kit. Its so cute and bright and....well....funky!! Check the kit out HERE The kit could be used to further embellish the Perpetual Calendar QPs or create your own co-ordinating scrap pages etc. Hope you enjoy them!!! Keep an eye out for the second half of the year that I will be putting up as a freebie in May :D Kel

Duchess Deal!!

2009-04-27T10:21:00.003-04:00

Hi, it's Michelle here. Just noticed it was raining here and I really wanted to go shopping but I think I'll go shopping online instead. Is it raining where you are? Don't want to leave your house? Need a good deal? We've got just the one for you! The Duchess Deal today is for Tearing It Up Shapes. 6 paper tears in different shapes. Here's a preview. You can get this today for .99 at Get Digi With It!! You can't beat that! So click on the link to purchase. Here's the coupon code that you will need to get it for this fabulous price dd_trshp_99. Hope you enjoy shopping!

Happy Sunday!

2009-04-26T08:32:00.003-04:00

Hi everyone! It's Kim again, bringing you another great product from Duchess Designs! But first of all let me introduce myself. I am a SAHM to two toddlers and one teenager....ALL boys! This translates to one busy mom! Even though I am a busy mom, I do have some extra time when all is quiet in the house, perfect for scrapbooking. I started scrappin' over 10 years ago but recently took the digital plunge and I love it. My boys, my wonderful husband, myself and the two cats live in Northern Illinois where the weather can't decide if it wants spring to stay.

Enough of me...I told you I was going to show you another great product of Duchess Designs. This is an oldie but a goodie! How I Roll is perfect for all those "boy" pictures! I just love the grunge feel to this kit and I know that as my boys get bigger I will be using this kit over and over!

How I Roll has some coordinating goodies too!

Here is LO from starwarsgirl06 using this awesome kit!

Stay tuned for more Duchess Designs goodies next week...until then...
Happy Scrapping
Kim

Another CT Newbie here!!

2009-04-25T06:57:00.010-04:00

Weeeeeell hello everyone! Yet another introduction here. My name is Kel AKA Monkey Chuckles (Long story we might get to that one later!) I am a West Australian and I have two adorable kiddies Cody & Levi. Not quite 2 years apart and my oldest is 2 and a half..........they certainly keep me busy! They are pretty good kids...I think we will keep them....lol. An added bonus is they are great scrapbooking subjects. Speaking of scrappin your kiddos, check out this layout by our very own CT member Ellie (Ellie80).

Its such a beautiful example of a lovely simple photo that allows you to focus on that gorgeous face! Ellie has used Papers and elements from the mini kit Buddies & Parker, Mask from 'Capture Life: Mask It!' by SuzyQ Scraps, Font is DJB JENNIFERA. The colours are soooo beautiful for a little boy or baby boy, I love how Ellie used the mask and I really adore how the focus is on that gorgeous face. Please leave Ellie some love for her beautiful layout: So cute by Ellie80.

Now for an AWESOME Duchess Deal!!

These adorable tear out shapes are so versatile, and best of all they are only 99c with the Duchess deal Code!!! Just pop into the shop HERE and put your coupon code below at the checkout!

dd_trshp_99

Fancy That

2009-04-24T10:16:00.003-04:00

Hi everyone! I'm new to Duchess Designs CT and I'd like to introduce myself. My name is Michelle and I'm a Stay at Home mom to my very busy 1 year old daughter. She's supposed to be napping right now, but I hear her talking away to herself in her room. :) I started digi-scrapping just after she was born so a little over a year now. Before that I paper scrapped but with a new baby that proved to be too messy and time consuming. Anyway, let's get to our featured LO today. It's by Lori using Besties by Duchess Designs and SillyBean Scraps.
I just love everything about this LO. The pictures are so adorable and you can tell her little girl is having a great time playing outside. All the layering of paper really ties it all together and her well placed elements make this LO shine! Click on the picture to go and leave her some love!

2009-04-23T13:49:00.004-04:00

Hello Everyone, I wanted to first introduce myself to you. My name is Heather (a.k.a babyblueeyesx2) I am one of the newest creative team members of Duchess Designs! I have been in the digi-scrapping community for over a year now and love meeting all the wonderful scrappers out there! The bonus is always finding very talented designers like Duchess Designs to work for! I am a SAHM to 5 but total of 8 in our family...Gotta love it when they grow up and leave the nest, I have been in a long term relatinship with my best friend Tracy. He is a chef at a resturant near us.We have been together going on 13 years in August.

Okay so enough about me....lol I am here to post today's Quickpage for you so without further a due here's the preview of the kit that created this QP. It's called Besties and it's a collab between Duchess Designs and Silly Beans Scraps

image is linked to store..

And here is the QP .made by Duchess Designs CT member Hillary

photo is linked to download...Have a nice Day!

Lets Talk Needs

2009-04-21T23:03:00.007-04:00

...or maybe it is more of a want thing, lol. I could say need, I know I need to have certain things in my life to make me happier, but they really aren't needs, but rather wants, lol. And I will get back to all that in just a second here, but first I need to chat, lol!

I have been away from home for the past 10 days or so, house sitting for my Mom while she is vacationing in Florida. Yeah, she left me here in this drab, rainy, cold weather and headed for the sun. I left my house with my EHD and a few other things I figured I would need while away to get some scrapping done and keep up with all my obligations. Well, you know how that goes. I got to my Mom's house and realized that she no longer had PSE 5 on her computer. I forgot that she had a problem a few months ago with a Vista update and had to totally redo her hard drive. OK, I guess I can finally go out and get PSE7 and upgrade. No problem there. I install it on her computer and then a little later I attend a speed scrap. I love speed scraps and they are so much fun! I open up PSE, get my first instruction, find the photos, and I am looking for a kit to use to and start creating my page.

Have you ever worked with anything like that on a computer that has less than 1GB of RAM??? It is NOT fun! I finally had to give up the ghost and put it away. I was so frustrated and it was moving SO SLOW!!! I could move a paper or resize something, and walk away and do something in the house and come back and it was still working on it! UGH! So needless to say, I got no scrapping done the whole time I was gone. I was going through withdrawals, lol. But that did give me a chance to do a lot of window shopping while I was on the computer and not scrapping. And that brings me back to our needs.

Maria, Duchess Designs, has quite a few items in her shop that once you get, you will use over and over again. Just stuff that is nice to have in your stash to add that little something to your page. Like these bread tags, Bread all About It! These are the cutest things and perfect for that finishing touch.

Or how about Ink It Up 3...which is full of ink splatters to grunge up your papers or photos or whatever you choose.

Or this pack of inked edges, which will come in handy again and again. Ink It Up! 2

I just want to end this by saying that having a few items in your stash like these will always come in handy and help you to create that perfect page! And with that I am off, I have put PSE7 on my own computer now, and I want to check it out and play! Have a great week everyone!

Wow! So What Do You Think...

2009-04-20T07:26:00.004-04:00

about the blog's new look?! I think it looks amazing, well done to our Duchess (Maria) for doing such a FAB job!
The Duchess has been super busy recently filling up her stores at GDWI & Elemental Scraps and for this weeks Duchess Deal you can get someting NEW in store at GDWI for just 99cents!
It's a mini kit called 'Funky Funk'
This kit is so new I haven't even got any CT pages to show you using the kit! But I know you'll love it so go check it out in the GDWI store here. To get it for 99cents just enter this code at checkout: dd_funky We'd love to see what you create with the kit so drop us an email using the 'Email Me' button in the right sidebar ;)
Thanks for reading,
Ellie :)

Spring and Friendship

2009-04-19T08:25:00.004-04:00

I don't know about your weather but our's was perfect this week. We spent a lot of time outside, which definitely cuts into my scrapping time, but the kiddos need to get out and release some energy. Spring is here and I hope after the rain passes by today it is here to stay! The flowers are starting to bloom, the grass is getting greener and my boys, as little as they are, are meeting new friends in the neighborhood. Duchess Designs teamed up with her friend, Silly Beans Scraps, to create a kit that is all about friendship and is also perfect for those spring time pictures.

Besties has glitter, beautiful colors and is packed with tons of elements and paper that will make scrapping all those friend and springtime moments a lot easier!

Have a super day and see you next week for more Duchess Designs Goodies!!

Happy Scrapping

Kim W

2009-04-19T00:33:00.004-04:00

Hey after a long week of sickness at my house I am relieved to have been able to sneak away and check out the new CT Members gallery's. I found one that I loved and wanted to share with all of you. It is called Bubbles and it is by our new CT member Kel. Check it out.

Isn't that cute!??!! She used 'Spring Forward' and a Katie Pertiet template.

Thursday QP!

2009-04-16T01:19:00.002-04:00

Hi everyone! I hope you all had a good Easter :) My kids had a good holiday and the in laws are visiting this week. Today's QP is another one from the Besties collab from Duchess Designs and Silly Bean Scraps. You can find it on sale at Get Digi With It. Thanks for looking!Image is linked to download...

A Celebration Duchess Deal!

2009-04-13T07:15:00.006-04:00

Happy Easter everyone - I hope you had a lovely Easter Sunday! This weeks Duchess Deal is going to be great for scrapping all those Easter photos! You can get the 'Celebration Doubles Template Pack' for just 99cents! These templates are awesome - I've used them myself and I loved the result!
and here's my pages using the templates - you can see the full credits here
To get these awesome templates for 99cents, all you have to do is enter this code at checkout: dd_celeb_99
Thanks for looking and I hope you have a great day!

FANCY FANCY FANCY!!!

2009-04-12T14:53:00.005-04:00

I missed a week, and I am two days late for this week... but I here now.... with a handful of Fancy work to share!!

The first layout I am loving is Brody's New Bike by Amy...

She used How I Roll which totally fits with this awesome pic!

The next layout is by Kim.

I love the repeating circles. She used Buddies:Kooper to create this layout.

The last layout is by Me... I never do this, but I wanted to showcase this minikit... Thirty-One.

This mini comes with two full size glitter fills which I used to make my title.

Make sure to click the layouts and leave these ladies some lovin!!!

Thursday QP!

2009-04-10T00:32:00.003-04:00

Hi everyone! Sorry I'm a bit late with the QP freebie today. My daughter has been running a high fever all day and it slipped my mind until just now.

Anywho....here it is! Today's QP freebie was made with the new Besties collab from Duchess Designs and Silly Bean Scraps. It was made by one of our new CT members, kim21673! You can pick up this adorable kit on sale at Get Digi With It. I hope you enjoy this and make sure to check back every Thursday for more Besties QPs!

(Image is linked to download)

Where are you Spring? and a little challenge

2009-04-07T12:00:00.006-04:00

Are you as antsy for spring to get here as I am? For those of us in the northern part of the states, we are still waiting for signs of spring. We were supposed to get snow this past Sunday, but it passed by us thank goodnes. Although I heard it snowed 5 inches by Maria! I keep looking for the buds on the trees or that first flower to come sprouting out of the cold ground, but to no avail...yet. I know it will come, sooner or later, I just keep hoping it will be sooner.

I am seeing so many spring kits out right now, which makes me want Spring even more. Maria has a fantastic spring collab out that is perfect to help us get rid of the winter blues, called Spring Forward.

I have been doing project 365, and thoroughly enjoying it and love looking through the photos I have taken so far. I know not everyone is doing this, but here is a little challenge for you all, which kind of ties into my daily photos and Spring.

Right now, today, take a picture of what it looks like in your neck of the woods on this Spring day. And then scrap a page with it, using Spring colors, and tell us what sign tells you that Spring is finally here. Leave a spot for another photo if you want, so you can go and take one of whatever that sign is when it finally happens so you can add it to your page. Or you may find, like I did, that your sign is here, you just have to look closer. Maybe if we all think Spring it will really actually get here, lol.

Post your layout and leave a link in the comments section and by next Tuesday I will randomly pick a winner and you could win a $5.00 gc to Maria's new store at Elemental Scraps!

Here is my page, and you will note that mine has 2 photos because when I went out to take my photo, I discovered that my sign WAS there! I used Spring Forward kit.

A Hybrid Duchess Deal This Week!

2009-04-06T09:51:00.005-04:00

This week you can pick up an awesome hybrid template set for just 99cents - how do I know it's awesome? Because I've actually done it! It was my very first hybrid project so if you're a persone who's wondering about whether to have a go at hybrid - here's your chance without having to spend a fortune!
Here's a page I made about my album:
Tempted? Well all you need to do to get the templates for 99cents is to add the Flower Book Hybrid Album to your cart & enter this code on checkout: dd_flower99
Enjoy & thanks for reading!

Spring is Here!!

2009-04-05T14:10:00.007-04:00

Hi! Spring is here, even though the weather may not show it. I know we have been having some crazy weather here and I am ready for spring weather to stay!

Duchess Designs teamed up with Chrissy W and Angie Kovacs to bring a wonderful kit just for spring. Spring Forward is jammed pack with papers, alphas and all sorts of wonderful elements to help you create the most adorable spring projects. It is available at Elemental Scraps.

Duchess Designs also has Spring Forward Word Art that coordinates with this adorable collab trio!

Both images are clickable and will take you right to her store!

Here is a LO I did using Spring Forward

Until next time...Happy Scrappin'

Kim W.

QP Thursday!!

2009-04-02T03:28:00.003-04:00

WOW! Can you believe it's April already? Where is this year going? And as you can see, our wonderful designer, Maria is going to be extremely busy this month :) Well, today I have for you the last QP from Buddies: Matteo mini kit. It was done by CT member justplainbee. You can find this kit on sale at Get Digi With It. We hope you enjoyed the Matteo QPs and keep an eye out for the awesome new ones coming this month with the collab kit called Besties from Duchess Designs and Silly Bean Scraps :)

(Image is linked to the download)

April’s HUGE Blog Train!

2009-04-01T06:41:00.001-04:00

Welcome to Duchess Designs! Those of you who are collecting pieces from this kit have a very big journey still ahead of you. I’m station #3 on the Blog Train Express!

And for those who’ve never been here before, let me tell you a little about Duchess Designs! I started designing just over a year ago, and opened in my first store on NSD weekend last year. I now sell at and run the site Get Digi With It and I also sell at Elemental Scraps! Some things that have been happening around here:

- I am participating in Inspiration Lane’s Desire 2 Inspire Contest! Currently I am in the very last challenge of the contest and up against some very tough competition. We’re all very excited about seeing how our last kits come out and learning the results from our 6 weeks!

- Elemental Scraps will be going through a very excited site re-design this weekend! The entire site will be down from Friday until Monday morning, when we open up with a fresh new look, A GREAT new Color Play, and LOTS and LOTS of awesome new releases! Until then, you can shop the blowout sales at ES where retiring products are only ONE DOLLAR!

- And in the Spirit of Spring Cleaning, I’ll be going through a re-design of my own around here! Stay tuned and check back often!

-Get Digi With It is welcoming 3 new designers today and tomorrow! Click to check out their stores: FoxyDesigns, Kristi Westling, and Deiuwke (link coming soon)

- Every Thursday there is a Freebie Quickpage posted here on the blog. For the month of April coming up, every Thursday will feature a quickpage from an upcoming kit of mine called “Besties”. It will be released on April 6th at both stores, and is a collaboration with my BFF, Silly Beans Scraps. If you come on every Thursday of April, you will end up with the entire Quick Album.

-Every Monday we give a Duchess Deal! Here at the blog you can pick up a coupon code to get the item of the week for only ONE DOLLAR! The coupon is good for only that day, so you’ll want to snatch it up!

Well, those are the things that are making me busy lately. :) If you’re interested in keeping up to date on these things, go type in your email just to the left of this post and click subscribe. The posts made here will go directly to your inbox without you having to make a special trip over here! :)

And now for your April Blog Train piece from me! Click the image to download!

And your Next Station on the Express is Creative Victorian Designs http://creativevictorian.blogspot.com.

Have Fun!

Today's Duchess Deal

2009-03-30T05:38:00.005-04:00

You're going to feel very lucky if you manage to get this weeks Duchess Deal from GDWI...it's one of the Duchess' most recent releases...it's none other than the fantastic 'Lucky Charm'!
Here's a fantastic layout using 'Lucky Charm' by our very own Hillary! She also used one page from the 'Celebrations Doubles' templates.
To get the awesome kit for just 99cents just enter this code on checkout: dd_luckyblog
Thanks for reading & I hope you get to pick up the kit :)

a very FANCY post

2009-03-28T15:14:00.004-04:00

Ok... let me start with how sorry I am. I have been running around like a crazy person with work lately and well... everything else has fallen to the side. I have missed the past two Friday's Fancy that posts... and at a bad time as there is soooooooooooo much great stuff going on in the gallery.

So on to it... Lots for me to Fancy.

The first layout is by Ellie. She created this super cute layout using Girlfriends: Alivia.

The second layout I am loving is by Hillary. She used Lucky Charm and Celebrations Template Set.

The last layout I want to present is by the wonderful Ellie (again). She used Spring Foward, the amazing collab by Duchess Designs, ChrissyW & Angie Kovacs.

Stop by all their galleries ... which are linked ... and leave these ladies some lovin!!!

Better late than never!

2009-03-27T22:56:00.002-04:00

Hi everyone. I'm sorry I'm late with the QP freebie. We've all been busy and I've been sick. So without further ado, here is QP #4 using the Buddies: Matteo mini kit. You can find the kit for sale at Get Digi With It. I hope you all have a great weekend!Image is linked to the download.

This Weeks Duches Deal

2009-03-23T09:50:00.006-04:00

Hi everyone! Ellie here again with this weeks Duchess Deal - I'm afraid it's going to be a quick post today as I have a rotten cold (as well as my daughter & son) and it's also my daughter's 3rd birthday today! So I'm sorry but I'm going to have to post and run lol
The deal this week is 'Stapler Fun' for just 99cents! If you're looking for a slightly different way to attach something to you page, then these may just be what you're looking for!
And here's a page I've done using the staples so you can see them in action :) (I also used 'How I Roll' on this page) To get this deal all you need to do is enter this code on checkout at GDWI: dd_blogstaple
Enjoy!

New CT Layouts

2009-03-21T00:57:00.003-04:00

Hey, Hillary here to bring you some of the great new LO's that Maria's CT has made this week.

I will start with one by Ellie. She used Maria's new collab Spring Forward. This is a really fun kit! I love all of the white space in this LO, but it also has a lot going on.

This second LO is by Jaime. I thought this was so adorable with the element cluster by the photo. She also used Spring Forward.

And this last one is by me. Maria's Lucky Charm kit is perfect for all of those new St. Patricks Day pictures that you took earlier this week. I hope you take a minute to check out these kits because they are both awesome.

Oh and if you love the LO go ahead and leave some love.
(Images are linked to their gallery's)

Quick Page Thursday!

2009-03-19T02:32:00.002-04:00

So, how is everyone doing? I am o.k. I should really check the blog more often. I didn't realize my LO was picked for Fancy that Friday..LOL...Anyway, I am here to give you your QP Freebie :) It was made with the Buddies: Matteo mini kit, by CT member Hillary. You can find the mini kit at Maria's store at Get Digi With It. I hope you enjoy this QP and I hope you all have a great weekend!Image is linked to the download.

Have you Heard?!

2009-03-17T22:11:00.001-04:00

I’ve got a great new store!!! As of yesterday, I am now selling my designs at Elemental Scraps!!! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve dreamed of selling there and now Angie has been so kind to accept me on the team!!!

And to Celebrate, I have teamed up with Angie Kovacs and ChrissyW to bring you a fantastically awesome new kit! It’s called Spring Forward and it’s on sale for 25% off all week!

Not only that, but I’ve added a little wordart pack that is free this week with the purchase of the Spring Forward Kit! Just put both items in your cart and you’ll get the WA for free!

So come celebrate with me at ES and stick around for some fun changes here to the blog coming soon!

This weeks Duchess Deal!

2009-03-16T08:39:00.004-04:00

So it's lunchtime here in the UK & I've spent a lovely morning with my two kiddies :) The weather is finally looking like spring over here on the coast & so I got all the garden toys out - we had a blast! It was great to be out in the fresh air for ages!

So onto this weeks Deal from our very own Duchess - You can get 'Template Pack #6' for just 99cents!

Here's a page by ct member Ruby (aka rubyminoza) using one of the templates

To get the templates at this bargin price, all you have to do is enter this code on checkout: dd_b99_temp6
Enjoy!

It's Friday!!!

2009-03-13T09:00:00.000-04:00

I don't have a ton of time but I wanted to make sure to post this great layout from the gallery at GDWI. Today's layout is by Amy-Starwarsgirl. I love the paper layering behind the photo and the glittery elements in this layout using Lucky Charm by Duchess Designs.

See ya next week!

Who likes a freebie?

2009-03-12T00:01:00.003-04:00

I know you all do! Here's your QP for today :) I hope you like it. It's made with the Buddies: Matteo mini kit that you can find at Get Digi With It. (Image is linked to download)

This weeks Duchess Deal Is....

2009-03-09T09:00:00.003-04:00

part of one of my favourite kits ever! I actually bought this add-on before I was on the Duchess' CT :)
What is it you ask? Well it's the awesome 'Secret Garden Add-On Pack' & you can get it for just 99cents! Whether you have the 'Secret Garden' kit or not this will be a fabulous mini-kit that you will return to time & again! Here it is:

So all you need to do to get the add-on pack for 99cents is to enter this code on checkout: dd_b99_sgadd
It's as easy as that! If you decide to go & grab this deal while it's available, please feel free to share anything you create with it - we love seeing your pages!
Thanks for reading!

The Sunday Newspaper

2009-03-08T23:16:00.001-04:00

I want to let you all in on some news and a new release that hit the store this week!

First…. I have some EXTREMELY exciting news!!! It involves a store… It involves a store I’ve been applying for since October… It involves a store I’ve been applying for since October that now has an opening for me to sell there!!!

Great news huh? What? You thought I was going to tell you what store it was huh? Not a Chance!!! You’ll have to check back to find out!

In addition to that, I did a collab this weekend with 2 awesome designers whom I respect SO much! That Collab kit will be released on the day my store opens and I’m giddy to the bones to share it with you!!!

Okay, enough teasing now… ;)

This kit was released last week at GDWI. If you don’t already know, last week marked a momentous occasion for me. One year ago on March 4th, I delivered to my very small blog audience, my first EVER freebie: a kit called Lucky Charm. I was then known as Ferg Designs (Ferg coming from my last name, Ferguson) and I was eager to learn everything I could about the world of design! When I started selling at Digital Candy I changed my design name to Duchess Designs and my preview here reflects that. Don’t remember the kit? Here’s a refresher….

Well in honor of the anniversary of my first freebie, I revamped this kit! The inspiration of the new Lucky Charm came from the colors of this kit, but almost everything else is not the same! Trust me, It’s amazing how much you can grow in one year!!! So here’s the New Lucky Charm, which is on sale for 25% off through tomorrow night!

Well good night y’all!!!

Fancy THIS!

2009-03-07T11:29:00.004-05:00

Ok ... I know Im a day late... SORRY!!!

I was at work yesterday from 7am-9:30pm...Loooooooooooooooooong Day. But Im home now and I am here for my post!

I lovin my new assignment of Fancy That Friday and couldn't wait to start...(of course then I missed my post)

I am just loving this layout by Ellie. I especially like the small paper squares all around her photo. She used Secret Garden by Duchess Designs.

See ya next week!

QP Thursday!

2009-03-05T12:00:00.002-05:00

Hi everyone! I'm here with your free QP :) Today's QP was made with the Buddies: Matteo mini kit. You can find this adorable mini at Get Digi With It. I hope you enjoy this QP and have a great Thursday!(Image is linked to download)

It's Duchess Deal Time Again!

2009-03-02T11:39:00.003-05:00

Ellie here with another Duchess Deal :) I'm a bit late posting this one today as we've had family visiting & also had to take our car for it's annual MOT which is a test done here in the UK to make sure your car is roadworthy & not a danger to other road users etc - I'm not sure if you have this in the US? We were expecting it to fail on so many things but it made our day when we went back to the testing station & were given a lovely green pass certificate! We're still in a state of shock lol

Anyway onto your Duchess Deal for today! You can get 'Greetings! Pack #1' for just 99cents!
This is a great set of card templates that can be customized for ANY occasion! To get the pack at this low price all you have to do is enter this code at checkout: dd_gp1_b99
We'd love to see what you create!

Desire 2 Inspire

2009-02-28T08:02:00.004-05:00

Boy do I have exciting news! I’m taking part in the Desire 2 Inspire designer contest at ~Inspiration Lane~! I totally love Inspiration Lane as a shoppe and have often found exactly what I was looking for there. I can’t believe I have this opportunity to learn from them and the *possibility* of selling in their shoppe!

The great thing about Desire 2 Inspire is that they are really teaching some very useful information that will help us all grow by leaps and bounds and learn plenty new techniques.

So I put together a pre-contest mini kit that I’m going to give to you all here…. but ONLY for 48 hours!! you have to hurry because after 48 hours has passed, I’m putting this mini kit in my store!

Plus keep checking back here often (at least once a week) because I will periodically pass these freebies on to you, and at least tell you where you can get them. I’m told that at some point during the contest, the # of people who download the submission will be helpful to me. So stick with me my awesome fans!

So here’s “Just Wanna Have Fun.” (Thanks for looking! sorry the download has expired)

QP Thursday!

2009-02-26T01:51:00.003-05:00

Hi everyone :) I'm here with 4 more brag book pages from the adorable Makenzie mini kit. I hope you like them. And remember, you can pick up the mini kit at Get Digi With It. Image is linked to the download and just so you know, Duchess Designs is not using 4Shared :)

It's Duchess Deal Day Again!

2009-02-23T07:33:00.004-05:00

Hi all, Ellie here with this weeks Duchess Deal! This week you can get the fabulous 'How I Roll Add-On Pack' for just 99cents! All you need to do is enter the coupon code: dd_blog_hiradd99 on checkout.

And here's a page called 'How I Roll'that uses the add-on as well as the full 'How I Roll Kit' by LuvsMyFurBabies from the gallery at Get Digi With It.

I hope you mangae to pick up this great deal, it won't be active for long! Thanks for reading!

CT Layouts

2009-02-22T22:41:00.003-05:00

It's been a super lazy day at my house with 2 sick little boys. I has left me lots of time to play around on the computer :) I found a couple of new LO's in the gallery today that I thought I just might share. One from Ruby:

and one from Jamie:

Both of these are fabulous examples of great LO's that you can make with Duchess products. Have a great week everybody! See you next Sunday.

Speedy Speed Scrap

2009-02-21T23:38:00.003-05:00

Hello again from Fort Worth, Texas! I just finished up my weekly speed scrap at GDWI and I had a blast just like I always do!

This week was hosted by Heather of Heather T. Designs. Heather always keeps us on her toes with her interesting directions and her minimalistic approach to scrapping.

Next week will be hosted by Vanessa of ViVa Artistry. It is sure to be a great time so make sure you join us for all of the fun! I can guarantee good company and plenty of conversation about scrap booking and food!

I'll see you all Saturday at 10pm est.

Freebie Thursday!

2009-02-19T23:20:00.004-05:00

Hi everyone :) I hope you are all doing well. I am here to give you some more freebie brag book pages! So here are 3 more BB pages from the Makenzie mini kit for you. You can find Girlfriends: Makenzie at Get Digi With It. (Image is linked to the download.)

This Weeks Duchess Deal

2009-02-16T09:43:00.002-05:00

Hi all, Ellie here with this weeks Duchess Deal. It's going to be a quick post today - I hope you don't mind but I'm meant to be making cookies with my two year old :)

So today you can pick up the great 'Template Pack #5' for only 99cents!

And here's a layout using one of the templates by our very own Carey! I love the colours she's used, I'm a sucker for pink & brown pages :)

To get the templates at the bargin price you just need to put them in your cart at GDWI and enter this code at checkout: dd_t5_99blog
I hope you manage to pick up this great deal, please feel free to share your pages with us! Now I'm off to go make cookies - YUM!
Thanks for reading!

Freebie Thursday!

2009-02-12T02:06:00.004-05:00

Hi everyone! Amy here with a great Brag book freebie for you from Duchess Designs' Makenzie mini kit. I hope you all enjoy it! (sorry, link is expired)
And you can find the Girlfriends: Makenzie mini kit here at Get Digi With It. (and psst! Makenzie will be on sale for Dollar Friday this week at GDWI and Scrapdish! What a perfect time to pick up the kit and have the opportunity to make additional pages to the brag book album you're getting here free!)

Thanks for checking out the blog! Have a wonderful day!

This Weeks Deal From The Duchess!

2009-02-09T07:10:00.004-05:00

Hi all, Ellie with you here today to bring you this weeks deal from the Duchess!

I hope you had a nice weekend, we didn't get up to much really, but my lovely hubby did let me get a couple of pages done by looking after our kiddies :) The weather here in the UK stopped us from going out really as it was raining & very cold, my little boy has a cold & is also teething so we didn't want to expose him to the rough weather lol

Anyway here's your deal for this week...you can get the beautiful kit 'Secret Garden' for just 99 cents!! I personally absolutely LOVE this kit - I bought it before I was on this CT & I go back to it over & over again - I've even customised my own blog with it!

So all you need to do is put it in your bag at GDWI & at checkout enter this code: dd_SG99_blog
Here's the kit in action - this page was created by Ruby & it's called Siena College

I hope you're able to pick up the kit at this amazing price, the code won't be active for long so get it while you can & please feel free to show us any pages you make!
Thanks for reading :)

CT LO's

2009-02-08T00:38:00.003-05:00

Over here in Duchess World there are some pretty cool LO's. I try not to pick my own because well I don't want to seem self centered, but this CT makes it so easy to find cute LO's so that I don't pick my own. (I was really tempted this week though) I found this one in the Gallery over at Get Digi With It by Ruby. Her LO's are always so pretty and always grab my attention, this one was no different. For this LO she used Buddies:Parker, Falling Leaves Glitters, and Template pack #2 (which is on clearance for only 60 cents! )

The next LO is by Becky. She always finds the cutest ways to scrap her sweet little Nieces.
For her LO she used Mod Turtle (clearance for 80 cents), and Stapler Fun.

Well go leave them some love. They make great LO's so go check out their gallery's while you are there. (Images are linked to their gallery's)

New Release....

2009-02-07T07:00:00.000-05:00

Hello - Hello to all! I hope everyone is having an excellent week. We sure are! Our Steelers put us in a great mood for sometime to come. If you are a Steeler Fan - WAHOOOOO- if not, I still hope you had a great week!

Enough football talk...I am here to show off the newest release into the Duchess Designs' Store at Get Digi With It.

Maria has just put out an AMAZING new template set. It is called Celebration Doubles, and it is two two-page templates.

It great for any theme you are shooting for, and it can also be used for Project 365 pages. It is on sale now at GDWI so hop on over there and grab it!

To show you how cute it really is ... a page created by Maria herself... its so peepin cute! (get it peepin cute???)

On a side note... there are quite a few products in the Duchess Designs store that will be retiring soon, and they are on clearance... I snagged a few... and I LOVE THEM!!! go check it out!

Makenzie brag book QPs #1

2009-02-06T03:04:00.002-05:00

Well once again my memory has failed me. I was supposed to make this post yesterday :( Better late then never right? So without further ado, here are your free brag book QPs made with the Makenzie kit by Hillary! We hope you enjoy them and have a great weekend! (Image is linked to the download.)

It's Duchess Deal Time!

2009-02-02T08:15:00.006-05:00

Hi all, Ellie here with today's post :) I'm currently sitting in my living room in a little town on the south east coast of England & it's absolutely freezing & it's been snowing all day (& yesterday)! Apparently were getting this weather from Russia! Definately not used to this lol! My 2 year old loves it but my 1 year old isn't so sure, we made a snowman this morning & while my 2yr old would stayed out for ages, within 30 mins my little man had had enough & was trying to open the porch door!
Anyway here's a deal for you today from the Duchess - you can get the Ink It Up 2 Frames for just 99 cents! The code to enter on checkout is: dd_ink2_99blog

There are six different sized frames included & these add a bit extra to any page - here's one I found in the Get Digi With It gallery using the frames. It's by rachnmaddie & it's called 'Smile With Your Eyes'

Thanks for reading - I'm off to go & warm up :)

New Challenge!

2009-02-01T14:54:00.001-05:00

It’s February! Love is in the air! Pink, red & chocolate are everywhere! Our loved ones are certainly in forefront of our minds! My challenge for you is to create a layout from the point of view of a loved one. You can do this by the voice of your journaling, by interviewing your subject, by taking photos from their angle. Step back, and give your subject the pen (or keyboard). Add a little variety to your scrapbooks!

Post your completed layout in the gallery at GetDigiWithIt & link back here in the comments to this post by Feb 15th. Everyone who participates will get the brand new template set from Duchess Designs – Celebration Doubles! Perfect for all those events for which you have tons of photos, or great for those project 365 photos! Can’t wait to see your layouts!

~Carey

Finally a New Release!

2009-01-31T04:12:00.000-05:00

And this one is so gorgeous you definitely don’t want to miss it!!

I saw these 2 really awesome layouts made by my cousin, both of her daughter’s birthday celebration. So I asked her if I could make a couple templates from those layouts, and she said yes!!! I was so stoked! But then I went without internet, and I’ve been so busy getting Get Digi With It running smoothly since the take-over, that I hadn’t had a chance to do them. Well, finally I buckled down and did it! It only took a speed scrap to encourage it (Thanks Mel!) and I totally love the way they turned out!

So here is the “Celebration Doubles” two-page template pack. It comes in 3 file types: .psd, .tif, and .png. The layered file types also come in 24x12 version and 12x12 versions. You can get it in the store for 40% off right now too!!!

I did this layout with one of these templates the other day. Boy was it fun to scrap with! and these photos have been needing a layout for a while now! lol

Ain’t it cute?! So get to the store and grab this while the gettin’s good at 40% off!

OH AND DON’T FORGET!

The weekly speed scrap is going on tonight at 10pm EST! This time it is going to be hosted by Vanessa from ViVa Artistry! We’ve been getting a lot of new participants in our speed scraps so they’re a great way to make new friends, have fun, and get a layout done while you’re at it! Trust me, you’ll be coming back time and time again! Check it out in this forum!

see ya later!

Just Browsing Around

2009-01-27T11:16:00.006-05:00

Hey everybody. I went looking around in the Duchess Designs gallery over at GDWI this morning. I really dug into it and I found two amazing LO's that I wanted to share. The first one is by Ellie. I Love the simplicity of this, but it is so pretty that it catches your eye. She used papers from Duchess Designs Secret Garden kit.

(Images are linked to their gallerys for credits)

The second LO that I picked is by Ruby. I just loved the pinks on the black background. For this LO she used Lil Prima. This kit is on clearance for only 80 cents! This is a great deal on a great kit. Go check it out.Well I gotta run, I hope you all have a great Tuesday!

Monday Madness

2009-01-26T12:54:00.002-05:00

Well, I've been a bad blogger haven't I? I missed 2 Mondays in a row and I felt so guilty about it! So here I am today to bring you your 99 cent deal from Duchess Designs for Monday :) Today's deal is the Rockin' Robin keyplate album. It's adorable and a great price at 99 cents! Make sure you grab it today while you can. Use coupon code dd_blog_rr99 at checkout. Image is linked to the store :)

Fancy That Friday

2009-01-23T04:00:00.002-05:00

Dani here w/ Fancy that Friday! It's been a crazy week. We are house hunting and I'm exhausted from it. We went and looked at houses all day today. I think we saw 7 total today. We have a top 2 but have no idea what we are going to do yet. I'm so tired of houses I can barely think about it anymore lol. So anywho here's my choice for fancy that Friday! This is from emtscrapper at Get Digi With It the kit is from a new designer at Get Digi With it Pixle Perfect Designs the kit is called Love You More :

I just love the simplicity and clean lines of this layout! The string braids are beautiful and positioned perfectly w/ the other elements! Overall just a gorgeous layout!

LOADS Of Duchess Deals!!!

2009-01-19T07:40:00.014-05:00

Boy does the Duchess have some deals for you today!! The first is only available for a very short time so grab it while you can...the 'Kathryne Mini Kit' from the 'Girlfriends' series is just 99 cents when you enter this code at checkout: dd_blogkath_99

Here's a couple of pages from the Duchess Designs gallery that have been created with 'Kathryne'
'Tinkering' by Tinkerbell (aka Carey)

And 'Friends' by Mrs Romer (aka Tami)

Ok so that's the first deal & if that's not enough there's EIGHT more & there's something for everyone! These deals are available until the end of the month when the products will be retired FOREVER!
First is 'Lil Prima' for 80 cents!! That's a full kit for 80 cents!!

Next is 'Mod Turtle' - I LOVE this kit! Absolutely perfect for doing little man pages :) This full kit is also only 80 cents!!!

'Royal Treatment' is only 90 cents...

Here's an Pewter Tile alpha for only 50 cents...

For you hybrid fans there is a 'Perpetual Calendar' for 75 cents...

And finally there is 3 different packs of templates for only 60 cents each!
Template Pack #1

Template Pack #2

Template Pack #3

Sooooo if you add all that up that's 3 full kits, 3 packs of templates, an alpha & a hybrid project for just over $5! Awesome!

Well I think this post is long enough now so I will say goodbye until my next post! I hope you have enjoyed reading & get to grab yourself some bargins :)

Wow Look At The Talent!!

2009-01-18T07:52:00.005-05:00

Hi all, Ellie here again to show you some awesome pages that have been put in the Duchess Designs Gallery this past week! People have been busy so I've picked a few of my favourites :)

First up is 'Snow Fun' by danimoy. She used 'Twas The Night Before Christmas' kit (which is currently 20% off) & glitter fills to come up with this great page - I love her paper strips on this one!

Next is a page by momof2 using the 'How I Roll' kit, add-on pack and a template from pack 6 - I just love everything about this page!

Finally here's 'All Smiles' by justplainbee. She's used 'Giggles & Secrets Mini Kit' & created this page for the speed scrap at GDWI last night! I love all those layered papers!

I think you'll agree, those are some pretty awesome pages! Now don't forget, if you're up for a little scraplift challenge then check out Carey's post here. I might even join in this one myself for the fun of it - there's a great choice of some amazing pages to lift :) Oh & of course there'll be a little surprise at the end for playing along!

I'll be back tomorrow to post an awesome 'Duchess Deal' some be sure to check back! Thanks for reading!

Happy Birthday Jamie Lee!

2009-01-17T08:50:00.003-05:00

Well, I'm a day late posting, but I wanted to wish a Happy Birthday to our very own CT Member, Jamie Lee! Have you checked out her gallery at GDWI lately? She's got some FABULOUS layouts in there! Here's a few of my favorites:

OK, so I love her entire gallery!!

If you feel inspired to scraplift one of her layouts, we want to see them!! Be sure to post your layout(s) in the Duchess Designs gallery at GDWI, then post the link to your layout in the comments to this post. Anyone who posts a layout by Jan 31st will get a little surprise!!

Fancy That Friday

2009-01-16T04:00:00.001-05:00

Hey everyone Dani here w/ Fancy that Friday :) How is everyone holding up w/ the snow and weird weather? It's freezing here in New York!! So anyways here's my choice for Fancy that Friday for this week How I Roll Page 2 by momof2 using Maria's How I Roll Kit

(image linked to her gallery)

I just love everything about this layout! It's a perfect boy layout! I love the font she used and the paper squares behind the photo are the perfect touch!

Come get your FREEBIE here!

2009-01-15T00:58:00.003-05:00

It's that day of the week again!

We have had yet another long week at our house. On Monday we all woke up sick, yes all 4 of us. We have been fighting it ever since and man are we ready to be done with this sickness. It has been nice to be able to just be at home 'Chillaxin' and trying to get better. Speaking of Chillaxin I have a Freebie for all of you. It is a fun QP by JustPlainBee, made from Maria's Chillaxin kit.

(Image is linked)

Remember if you like it... snag it and leave some love.

You can also pick 'Chillaxin' up over at Get Digi With It for only .99 cents.

Look At These!

2009-01-11T08:32:00.005-05:00

Ellie here with todays post - my first of 2009 :) I hope you all had a lovely holiday & new year!
This is going to be a quick post from me today as I'm working on something hybrid, using Maria's designs & it's nearly finished! It's not spectacular as it's my very first hybrid project but I'm really pleased with how it's turning out! I will hopefully be able to show it to you on my post next Sunday :)
ANyway enough of what I'm doing, take a look at some of these stunning pages the rest of the CT have created...
Ruby made this page called 'I Love You Gian' using the Duchess' 'Mod Turtle' kit. This is one of my favourite kits - it's just perfect for those cute little boy pictures

I made this page called 'How Time Passes' using the mini kit 'Angel Eyes' only 99cents!

And finally here's a cute page from Dani called 'All I Want For Christmas' using the kit 'Twas The Night Before Christmas' (currently 20% off!

Well that's it for today, I'll be back next week with some more pages to show you. Best wishes for 2009!

Speed Scrappin!

2009-01-11T00:13:00.005-05:00

Hey everyone! I hope you all had a relaxing Saturday. My husband and I decorated our living room...(Hobby Lobby is having a sale) Then we had a nice dinner at a local restraunt. This evening ...just like every Saturday I attended the GDWI Speed Scrap. We have a blast every week. While it can be very challenging it is super fun and quite addictive. At the end everyone shares the link to their layout... and I am always stunned by the beautiful pages that everbody creates. The best part is how different all the pages turn out even though we all used the same instructions...So here are a few layouts from the past two speed scraps.

The first layout is by the talented Dani at tonight's speed scrap. She used Twas the Night Before Christmas and the coordinating Glitter Fills.

This layout was created by Amy. She used Buddies: Kooper. I love her titling!!!

Last, I have my layout from tonight's speed scrap. I used Chillaxin.

I hope to see you all at next week's Speed Scrap...10p, EST.

Fancy That Friday

2009-01-08T22:38:00.003-05:00

It's time again for fancy that Friday :) I don't have much time today so this post is going to be short and sweet :) I chose this adorable layout from RubyMoon over st Scrapdish. She used Maria's 'Twas the Night Before Christmas.

I love the color blocking on this layout and the inked edge on the photo! The tag w/ the title on it simple adorable w/ the ribbon holding everything down.

Happy Thursday!

2009-01-08T15:30:00.004-05:00

Wow! Its Thursday again already? Where does the time go? We have been busy around my house with the holidays and now we have a bunch of birthdays to celebrate. We are in the process of buying the house that we are living in and it is going so slowly. Time just seems to fly by faster and faster each day, and I find us staying up later and later each night to try to get all of the things that we want to get done done.

I went browsing over at the GDWI gallery tonight and I found this LO and wanted to share it with all of you.

It was by former CT member Sharyn. I love the kit that she used for this. It's papers are so fun.

One last thing, don't forget the Speed Scrap at GDWI this Saturday night. It is always so much fun and is not to be missed.

Hey everyone !

2009-01-06T11:30:00.004-05:00

Hope everyone is enjoying their week!!! I am hear again to tell you about our Speed Scrap over at Get Digi With It this past Saturday evening! It ROCKED! After a bit of internet hiatus (unwanted, I am sure), Maria was back and boy it was so great! We had wonderful conversation, humor and lots of snacks!!

Just want to share a few of the layouts we created for this challenge--- speed scrapping really forces me to get out of my 'normal' scrap style!!! Sometimes I really need that!

Here are two examples of layouts done with the exact same instructions!

First is 2 cute 4 words by Danimoy: She used Duchess' Chillaxin Mini kit Next is Best Present by me :) and I used Twas the Night Before Christmas for mine :)This is a great time for me to promote the new look of Get Digi With It. Maria has revamped everything and has given the site a new look and it is amazing. You really have to check it out!

New Stuff

2009-01-03T07:00:00.000-05:00

Hello from Texas... and Happy New Year to EVERYONE!!!!!!

I am here today to let you know about some recent releases in the Duchess Designs Shop. One of Maria's newest additions to the store is Giggles and Secrets. This kit is so bright and fun it makes creating layouts easy... Here is a preview of the kit and it is linked to the store at GDWI.Below I have posted some layouts created by the royal court to give you some inspiration...

This first layout is from Dani. I love the way the black and white photo looks with the bright papers and elements. The next layout is by Jamie. she also used Template pack 2 to create this layout. The flowers within the frames are really cute. The last two layouts are by yours truly. The first is using a template freebie by Steel City Scraps. The second is a scraplift of one of Jamie's Layouts.

Right now you can grab Giggles and Secrets at GDWI for only 99cents. So run on over there and get it at this great price. While your there you can comment on these layouts...each photo is linked to the CT member's gallery. Ill see you next week for more new releases!!!

Fancy That Friday

2009-01-02T04:30:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year everyone!! I told you I would be back in the New Year! I hope everyone had a great and safe Christmas and New Years Eve. We had a great holiday. I'm off of work for Today and Tomorrow!! I'm so excited and hope to get a ton of scrapping done!

Well I guess I will just get to it today! Here's my choice for Fancy that Friday:

(Click the image to go to AmyU's Gallery for Full Credits and to leave her some love!)

First I have to say I LOVE LOVE LOVE this template that Amy Created for the template challenge at GDWI! Make sure you check it out!

As for this layout! I love the photos of opening Christmas Presents! I love how Amy did the title and the touches of pine really add to the Christmas feel of this layout!

Well that's it for me! Have a good weekend everyone!!

Dani

Happy New Year!!

2009-01-01T16:40:00.002-05:00

It's a new year & Get Digi With It! is under new management!! That's right, Maria the Duchess has taken the head spot! I can't wait to see all the exciting things Maria has in store for us over there! If you haven't done so, check it out! There a fun new challenges posted, brand new designers in the store, a weekly Speed Scrap and other great changes coming soon!

Speaking of something new...I bring to you the first challenge of the new year! We all know the new year is about reflecting on the past year & starting fresh. It's the perfect time for making resolutions, setting goals, and working on personal improvement. So, your challenge is to create a layout (or other type of project) that documents your resolutions or goals for the year. Getting them in writing is the first step to making them a reality!

Because it's the new year, I'm feeling generous! Everyone who participates will receive a prize! Plus, one winner will be chosen to receive an additional surprise! Be sure to post your layout in the Duchess Designs gallery at GDWI, then post the link to your layout in the comments to this post by midnight Jan 15 to be eligible for the prizes.

So, here are my goals/resolutions:
1. Get more sleep!
2. Drink more water, less diet soda.
3. Spend more time playing with DS. He's only little once, and not for much longer *eyes tearing up*
4. Cut back on my binging and snacking! I've been eating horribly lately and need to reign it in! I hope to lose 10 lbs in the process and get some breathing room back in my work pants!
5. Keep a cleaner/tidier house.

We'll see how well I stick with it! Wish me luck and will power!

And for those of you making resolutions, here are some tips and links to help you keep them!
1. Be realistic: The surest way to fall short of your goal is to make your goal unattainable. Strive for a goal that is attainable, such as cutting back on bad foods instead of cutting them out all together.
2. Plan ahead: Think about what you want to attain and make a strategy to do it. Change doesn't happen overnight, nor can you make a hasty resolution.
3. Outline your plan: Decide how you will deal with the temptation to skip that exercise class or have one more cigarette. This could include calling on a friend for help, practicing positive thinking and self-talk, or reminding yourself how your bad habit affects you.
4. Make a "pro" and "con" list: It may help to see a list of items on paper to keep your motivation strong. Develop this list over time, and ask others to contribute to it. Keep your list with you and refer to it when you need help keeping your resolve.
5. Talk about it: Don't keep your resolution a secret. Tell friends and family members who will be there to support your resolve to change yourself for the better or improve your health. The best case scenario is to find yourself a buddy who shares your New Year's resolution and motivate each other.
6. Reward yourself: This doesn't mean that you can eat an entire box of chocolates if your resolution is to diet. Instead, celebrate your success by treating yourself to something that you enjoy that does not contradict your resolution. If you've been sticking to your promise to eat better, for example, perhaps your reward could be going to a movie with a friend.
7. Track your progress: Keep track of each small success you make toward reaching your larger goal. Short-term goals are easier to keep, and small accomplishments will help keep you motivated. Instead of focusing on losing 30 pounds, say, focus on losing that first 5. Keeping a food diary or a symptom journal may help you stay on track.
8. Don't beat yourself up: Obsessing over the occasional slip won't help you achieve your goal. Do the best you can each day, and take each day one at a time.
9. Stick to it: Experts say it takes about 21 days for a new activity, such as exercising, to become a habit, and 6 months for it to become part of your personality. Your new healthful habits will become second-nature in no time.
10. Keep trying: If your resolution has totally run out of steam by mid-February, don't despair. Start over again! There's no reason you can't make a "New Year's resolution" any time of year.

Here's a link for more detailed info:
Stages of Change - How to Keep a Resolution

I plan to make my layout of my resolutions Saturday night at the GDWI Speed Scrap! Hope to see you there! Good luck!

~Carey

Free Post

2008-12-30T08:21:00.004-05:00

Ok, it has been FOREVER since I have posted on the blog. I have been on sort of a CT hiatus for November and December, but just like in Poltergiest --- III'mmmmm BAAAAAAAAAAACCCCK!

My post today was described as a Free Post -- well I am going to do three things: FIRST, give a shout out to the Duchess and say "I MISSED YOU TERRIBLY and I AM SO GLAD YOU HAVE INTERNET BACK".

Secondly, I am going to take a moment to promote the Speed Scrap over at Get Digi With It! It runs on Saturday evenings at 10pm EST. You get your detailed layout instructions the first hour, and then you get a second hour to finish up your layout and post it! I love speed scraps so much, and though they can seem intimidating at first, it really is a ton of fun! So, what's so fun about it? Well, it almost forces you to try different scrapping styles and techniques. I have learned a ton about blending photos specifically, and making them pop on your layout!

I hope you will stop by this Saturday to the SPEEDY SCRAP thread at GetDigiWithIt.com and see what all the fuss is about. Be sure to look for the current date! SO COME TO THE FIRST SPEED SCRAP OF THE NEW YEAR!!! Here are a few of the layouts I did for past speed scraps!

Don't you love this one !!! I used Lil Prima for this layout and Ink It Up 2 Frames!For this one I used Duchess' Falling Leaves kit --- ONE OF MY FAVES!

Ok, so the third thing I had planned was just to give you a chuckle. I am stealing this from my blog! If you don't know me, which you probably don't, I love Saturday Night Live, and specifically think that Justin Timberlake is hysterical and is probably one of the best hosts. Here is a clip someone put together of the parody he and a few other guys did with Beyonce spoofing her 'Single Ladies' video. Now, if you can't laugh at this, you may want to see someone! I love this clip because it shows them doing the dance, then cuts to the ACTUAL routine from the ACTUAL video so you can see how bad they did (or how well, depending on your dance training, you may think the guys are pretty talented!) ENJOY!!!

Now at the end you can see Paul Rudd who is actually the host this night - If you like this, google Omletteville!