I started stamping NOT to make a business BUT to have something to do in my free time. I wanted something FUN to do after work and when I wasn’t dancing hula or Tahitian dance.
In 2000, I was introduced to stamping and Stampin’ Up! At the time, I was more into scrapbooking than cardmaking. I invested in stamp sets and ink pads that would compliment my pictures and albums. Soon I found cardmaking a lot easier — and faster — than scrapbooking. Where it took me hours to finish a scrapbook layout, it took me a quarter of the time to create a card.
I didn’t want to spend my money on store-bought cards anymore when I could make my own greeting cards for just cents! It felt good to make things “hand-stamped” by me. I didn’t need to have “artistic” talent. The stamps did that for me! I just needed to choose a stamp, ink, and some paper with an occasional ribbon or embellishment. Stamping helped me increase my confidence and self-esteem as I started to develop pride in my creations.
In 2007, I bought the Starter Kit and got $125 worth of products for just $99! I built up my supplies using my discount! Then I started holding workshops and classes of my own. I loved the social interaction and friendships I was forming. I also loved the extra money I was earning to feed my hobby.
It’s now 2021 and I’m still stamping! What can I say? Stamping relaxes me. It helps to relieve everyday stresses by keeping me preoccupied in something I truly enjoy. Stamping also helps with boredom. It gives me something to do other than watch TV. Stamping helps me meet new friends who share the same passion. It provides a way for me to express my creativity. And finally, stamping gives me a way to earn extra money for more Stampin’ Up! products!!!