Happy 4th of July!

The holiday weekend just ahead is always one of my favorites - parades, fireworks, and concerts add up to a great time as we celebrate our country's birthday and freedom.

This festive banner made by Bekah Jennings just might be the perfect accompaniment at an Independence Day barbeque; well, not counting the watermelon and potato chips!

Check out Bekah's Etsy shop for all sorts of chipboard banners - ready-made or she'll do custom orders for any season, holiday, or event. She says her creations celebrate the beauty and joy of everyday life. To my way of thinking, it doesn't get much better than that.

Except maybe it does! When I sent a message to Bekah to let her know I planned to feature her shop, she wrote back offering a 15% discount to anyone who mentions all things paper in the "message to seller" at purchase (custom items excluded). She'll refund your 15% via Paypal. Nice!



Since quite a few of you are new to this blog since last summer when I first posted this striped paper lanterns card, allow me to recycle the idea for a moment. Pre-cut strips of quilling paper are key to making it come together quickly. Aside from the birthday example, it can do double duty as a summer party invitation... De"light"ed to invite you.
 And this lantern card from Martha Stewart's team that features grosgrain ribbon and stitching looks like a lot of fun to make too.

Have a wonderful weekend wherever you are!