Tribute to Rubber Paws

This post is to honor a woman I never met.  Karen Sigler, aka Rubber Paws was my sister's sister-in-law and a fellow rubber stamper/paper artist.  She passed away earlier this year and her family gifted her supplies to my sisters and me.

I knew from previous conversations that Karen was a crafter, but what I didn't realize is how incredibly talented she was.  When we entered their home, there were many cards and canvases showcasing her talent.  She had been published in many magazines and won lots of recognition for her work.  She did not just make cards, she made pieces of art.

In her studio, she had tons and tons of supplies.  Not just paper and some stamps, but embossing powders, glitters, Brilliant Pearls paint, specialty papers, beads and so much more!  We were overwhelmed and had a hard time wiping up the drool running out of our mouths.  Thankfully, she was so organized and supplies were actually where they were supposed to be - what a concept.

You could feel the pride and love as her husband showed off her crafting area as well as the gallery of her work.  He had lots of stories and it was an amazing day.

I never met her, but I sure wish I had.  As I looked around her home, we had so many things in common.  There are lots of signs around the house, a country-like feel to the decor, she loved vintage and an obvious love for her family and pets; a handmade home for sure.

Karen, since then, you have inspired me to:

Be more organized.  Carly and I have separated our stamps and they are now in their own drawers by subject.  Each drawer and container are labeled and I've already started stamping in a reference book.

Use my products.  Life is too short to not use all your supplies!  I have them...now I need to use them.  I've been using all sorts of embellishments in my cards and scrapbooks and they are looking fabulous!

Hog Heaven and Pig Stamp; Pitch Black Ink Pad

Vintage woman stamp, pearls and pen

Involve my family in my creations.  Her family was so proud of what she made; it was beautiful to see the look in their eyes when talking about her.  I want my family to be just as proud.  I rarely make them cards or gifts - it's always for someone else.  I need to send more cards and make more gifts just for the heck of it.

Large and Small star punches; Red card base & envelope

Follow my dreams.  Life really is too short.  What do I want to do?  Am I ok with the status quo or do I want to push myself for something more?

More importantly, no regrets.  Not just in the craft room, but in life.

Yes, I wish I would have known her.  She was a beautiful, talented lady and even knowing her through her crafting supplies has made me a better person.  Karen Sigler, may you rest in peace.

Gifted:
Plethora of various stamps (over 200)
Lots of cardstock, patterned & specialty paper
Embossing powders in every color
Brilliant Pearls paint
Ink pads and pens (and holders)
Xyron machine
Fiskars paper cutter
Punches
Eyelets, brads, clips and Rhinestones
Glitter and Stickles
Six drawer tower, paper holder, various containers
Idea books and so much more...