D'sign S.O.S.

SMC VIP

2010-07-30T20:03:00.001-04:00

The SMC VIP club will be doing a project to make a giant House Shaped Scrapbook from August until December. Instructions and templates will be broken down monthly and your project can be finished by Christmas so you can give it as a gift in time for the holidays- We will have a contest with the finished books and the winner will get lots of great prizes. For more details, see this discussion- This is an example of some of the benefits in the SMC VIP club that you could get each month for your membership A Template and instructions to make a giant house shaped book- broken down monthly. Accessory Pack of Digital stamps Monthly Sentiment Packs New Releases for the month New Technique Video and tutorial to coincide with the Shaped House project Monthly Sketch Fun and games with chats in the SMC VIP group All of the following images are available with the July SMC VIP club:

Your July Savings as an SMC VIP club member is more than $30 for a one month membership Pricing structures will give you the opportunity to choose monthly, semiannually and annually. Please send me your questions if you have them---

1 Month ~~$15~~ Introductory rate $10, lock in your price before it goes up
6 Months ~~$75~~ Introductory rate $50, lock in your price before it goes up
1 Year ~~$125~~ Introductory rate $75, lock in your price before it goes up

2009 SUPER Release Digital Stamp Sale

2009-12-14T12:02:00.000-05:00

2009 SUPER Release Digital Stamp Sale...

All of the Sew Many Cards Images for $25 -
That's 174 images for one low price!

Sew Many Cards

2009-12-12T12:45:00.001-05:00

Sign up for some great blog candy worth more than $50 HERE- This ends December 15, so hurry and sign up while you have time!

SMC Challenge: Create something with a Winter Theme- click HERE for directions and to enter

Sew Many Cards Design Team Call- Click HERE to see how you can be on the team..

Free Hershey image pack (Hershey and 3 other digital stamps) with a purchase of $10 or more only available at the Sew Many Cards store- click HERE to see what you get

Freebie Friday- you can get your free digital stamp sent directly to you every Friday in your email just by subscribing to the Sew Many Cards Newsletter.

Okay, now on to business
First, at Paper Cutz Challenge, the challenge is to create something with snowflakes or a snowman- How much easier can it be.
Just post your name and a link to your creation in Mr Linky by midnight EST, Thursday, December 17th, and if you're the winner, your name will be entered in the drawing for the grand prize.

I used the sketch from Midnight Madness this week- make sure to go over and hurry too, they are in the middle of a Christmas blog hop and there are some great prizes!

For my card, I used Eris in a cup of Cocoa- I stitched snowflakes around the edge, put some liquid pearls on the mug along with liquid glaze- you can't see it too well in the pic though I even added some stickles to Eris in just a couple little places- again, not showing in the pic... The paper is from Cosmo Cricket and has such a great winter feel to it. The matte for the circles was cut with my cricut using Sure Cuts A lot. The brad is from Karen Foster and placed on top of the poinsettia that is on the Digital stamp.

Halloween Blog Hop

2009-10-29T11:15:00.001-04:00

Starting October 30, 2009!

The Time is here!
Woo Hoo..... START HERE for the Halloween blog hop - If you arrived from Cheri's blog, you are on the right spot

I love Halloween! My entire family loves Halloween, but it is my husbands all time favorite holiday- probably because his birthday is at the beginning of the month. A couple years ago we had a big Halloween party, new home party and birthday all in one, but he had no idea about any of it. I decorated one of the spare rooms in a Halloween theme using that plastic wall paper. It was hard work, but so worth it. I also got a fog machine and set it up- found out real fast that they don't work so well inside: it set the smoke detectors off and that's when DH found out my secret. It was rather humorous, but ruined the big grand finale that I had planned.

I have a card all ready to share, but my camera decided to stop working, so I will have to post it later when I figure out what happened to it. It was either the puppy or the baby- either way, it could be a while LOL. This card will be here until I upload my new one. This image is from Sew Many Cards.

In the mean time, we will be having a drawing for some prizes. The first prize will be for $10 at Digital-Ink co. If you have never been there, be sure to stop by and see the digital images- there are eight stamp creators and they are all very different.

Three entries for doing a project that is Halloween themed and linking to Mr. Linky, or commenting with the link if he is not working.
One entry for a great Halloween story - true or not- put into the comments
Two entries for a picture of you in a Halloween costume.

Make sure to check out the other Blogs in the line-up for fabulous prizes-

JUST IN CASE YA GET LOST ALONG THE WAY....Here's our lists of ghoulish creators!!

1. Sarabeth http://www.scraphappie.blogspot.com/
2. Beth http://www.stampinsanity.com/
3. Cheryl http://www.secondglantz.blogspot.com/
4. Alison http://www.alisonsrandomthoughts.blogspot.com/
5. Margie http://www.ohbumbleismemargie.blogspot.com/
6. Jeri http://www.craftyjsplace.blogspot.com/ (HERE)
7. Tonya (http://www.stamphappens.com/
8. Jennifer http://www.happy2scrap4life.blogspot.com/
9. Kristal http://www.yourgypsygirl.blogspot.com/
10. Michelle http://www.megbeedesigns.blogspot.com/
11. Mia http://www.miasmagicmojo.blogspot.com/
12. Trish http://www.chloecards.blogspot.com/
13. Emma http://www.mycreativetime.blogspot.com/
14. Cheri http://www.creationsdecheri.blogspot.com/
15. Angela http://www.designsos.blogspot.com/2009/10/halloween-blog-hop.html
16. Genevieve http://www.scrapmuscade.blogspot.com/
17. Sarabeth http://www.scraphappie.blogspot.com/

Win a $250 Shopping Spree at The Scrapping Cottage!

2009-10-15T12:30:00.001-04:00

How would you like to win a $250 shopping spree at the Scrapping Cottage? That's right - the winner will get to choose $250 worth of products at The Scrapping Cottage!

They are trying to reach 500 followers- so go and make sure to follow for your chance to win :)

Sympathy Card

2009-10-15T09:15:00.004-04:00

Sympathy cards are the hardest to make. This one is for someone DH works with. I used an embossed card that was 5.5 inches and then layered and matted several times. Sewed around the edge of some of the mats and cut the Fancy Tag using SCAL and my cricut. After I cut it out I printed the sentiment on it by making it on plane paper and then taping the tag over the top and re-printing. I added some pearls and ribbon.

Midnight Madness

2009-10-10T22:25:00.004-04:00

I made this card for the Midnight Madness Challenge-

I used Dazzles from PaperWishes for the heart (layered heart) and the brads are also PW. The paper is gcd and I sprayed the white paper with a glimmer mist that I made with alcohol and Pearl x -- I sewed around the edges of the squares. Unfortunately, my computer crashed and I don't have my editing software, so the pics are not that great. Just wish the color would have come out better because I love how it turned out irl- You can see it in the pic, but there are small pears on the bottom left instead of using the real holes . Two more dazzles were added in the upper right corner too. Very disappointed in the photo though-

Scrapbox

2009-10-08T12:51:00.003-04:00

My dream has been to own a scrapbox for a while now- I saw a picture in a magazine last year and have wanted one ever since- well, Midnight Madness is having a drawing and giving one away and I'm here to tell you about it.

Oh and since looking on the website, I have foud more things I like the ribbon box- and did I mention that it is only $19.99 - if you order from there Enter this code when you place your order to get $100 off your shipping: 100Writes

Here is a snapshot of what it is the scrapbox is:

The Work Box™ is every crafter’s dream. It’s a workspace and a storage solution that looks like a beautiful, high-end piece of furniture. There are drawers, nooks and spaces for all of your stuff!
On wheels, The Work Box is fully transportable. It folds up into a handsome box, hiding all of your supplies from sight. This system comes with a collapsible work table and adjustable shelves.
There are 85 removable canvas totes with label inserts that fold up for easy storage. There are also 20 removable clear zipper pouches in 3 sizes.
Choose either raised panel or beadboard door styles and black or vanilla colors to match your room decor.

Included Canvas Tote Sizes:
(3) 6"width x 12"length x 12"high(22) 12.25"width x 12.25"length x 3"high(10) 12.25"width x 12.25"length x 5.5"high(30) 3"width x 12"length x 3"high(20) 5.5"width x 12"length x 4.5"highTotal: 85

Included Clear Zipper Pouch Sizes:
(2) 13" x 13" Large (6) 13" x 6" Medium(12) 6" x 6" SmallTotal: 20

Clear Overlays

2009-10-05T15:06:00.002-04:00

Inking or Stamping

Applying ink is a great way to add definition or color to an overlay. It is important, though to be careful of which ink you use. StazOn ink pads are best, since overlays are non-porous surfaces-the ink dries quickly without the chance for smudging.

Inking or Stamping
Applying ink is a great way to add definition or color to an overlay. It is important, though to be careful of which ink you use. StazOn ink pads are best, since overlays are non-porous surfaces-the ink dries quickly without the chance for smudging.

For all-over inking, place the overlay on a piece of scratch paper and turn the ink pad face down. Press the ink pad to the overlay, increasing pressure for more coverage, pressing lightly for less. You can also press a stippling brush to an ink pad, then to an overlay for a different look.

Coloring with Paper and Pens

Adding a touch of color to an overlay is also a simple and fun way to alter it. Select your overlay, then pick cardstock or paper that coordinates with the overlay and project. Cut the cardstock or paper to fit behind the entire overlay piece or just a select portion-behind a letter, border or image. Another super simple way to add a touch of color to your overlays is with a permanent ink pen or liquid acrylic paint. To add the color, turn the overlay over and apply the ink or paint to the back. This way the color will show through the translucent portions while still allowing the darker printed portions on the overlay to show.

Attaching Overlays

Overlays can be attached with ribbon, brads, and hidden adhesive- glues do not work as well as tape.

Look for places on your layout where the transparency will be covered by other items such as photos mats and embellishments. These are the perfect places to hide your adhesive. It only takes a few small spots of adhesive to hold the transparency in place.

Brads are one of the easiest embellishments to use. Simply poke a small hole with a push pin, insert the brad, and open the prongs on the back.

Gingerbread house

2009-09-23T15:05:00.005-04:00

I have been having problems with the video, so it will have to wait. I did figure out the problem, but now I have a horrible sinus infection and can't talk LOL -
In the mean time, here are pics of the house I am building. The windows, tree and doors were made with SCAL, but the cuts are the same as the Christmas Solutions cart. I added snow all of the place and will had more pages. Right now, there are only three, just to show how the house will lay. The first page goes only to the right of the door. The second is full to the right, but does not include the first peak that is red-that's the last page. It will be very thick and as soon as I get my voice back, I will post videos.

SCAL- Making a shaped Album

2009-09-12T15:50:00.005-04:00

This will be a step-by step process and will be take several days so please come back often for the rest of it...

I am making an album for a Christmas craft show that will be happening in December. Since it is so far off, I find myself puting this off, but I just can't do that.

First thing I did was try to find some paper that I want to use for the album. If you want the entire thing to match, then buy a paper pack and use the papers from that. I chose a Martha Steart paper pad. Now for the shape.

I got my initial shape from the Winter Woodland Crcitu cartridge and played with it in Inkscape. I will be posting a video here later to show the steps on how I arranged them in inkscape.

The book will have 11 pages and will be aprox 11" X 11"- so a nice sze. The hardest part is figuring out original design and then each page design. Embellishing is the funnest and therefore, the easiest.

Off to make the video on how to do the design in Inkscape.
Oh and before I forget, here is the pic of the design I will be using.

Lib It Up

2009-09-09T16:07:00.002-04:00

The creators of Sure Cuts a Lot have a companion piece called Lib It Up. Scal Lib it up is a free download. Lib it up creates little library files of all your svg or .scut files. It organizes them and makes them easily accessible via the shapes window in Sure Cuts a Lot.

I have started to incorporate .lcut files in my svg mult cut downloads. You put the lcut files in the library folder where you installed sure cuts a lot. Believe me once you get into the habit of using the libraries you will never want to guess about which svg to use again. I also love the fact that it can theme my svgs so that when I am creating I can quickly see the images of the svgs I have.

Susan Bluerobot has a tutorial for it here-

You can get Lib it up Here-

I hope this helps

New SCAL Posts coming soon....

2009-09-06T09:13:00.002-04:00

Sorry for the long delays here...I have been on vacation for over a month and just got back.

I am in the process of making a Ginger Bread Shaped Album and will be giving some explinations here, so stay tuned....

SCAL- Making Circular Text

2009-09-01T16:34:00.000-04:00

1.You need to have a picture editing program on your computer - I use Paint.NET (This is not the Paint Pad Accessory which is on your computer). You can download this free program - you should have this, its great - from `PaintDotNet.com`.
2. Go to Microsoft Word.
3. Click Insert, Picture, Word Art.
4. Click on one of the plain black styles in the top row. Type in the text you want. Click OK.
5. Click once on your text. The Word Art box will appear. Click the "A" which looks italic. (It's in the middle of the toolbar).
6. Click on the circle icon.
7. Now right click on your image, and click on Format Word Art.
8. In the Layout Tab choose "In Front of Text". Then click the Size tab and type the same number in the height and width (for example 6 and 6) Then OK.
9. Now right click again and click Copy.
10. Open Paint.net. Click Edit, Paste - then Expand Canvas.
11. Now you can save your file. Click File, Save as - make sure to change the file type to .jpg.

Now you can use this file in SCAL

In order to use circular text with an iron on, you will have to flip the text in Inkscape:
You will have to follow these directions if you want the item flipped.

Open Inksacpe, Click File,Import - find the .jpg file you just created
Once it is in the window, click Object, Flip Horizontal. The click File, Save As, and type a name (I usually make the name the JPG name and "flipped" , so I know which file is the flipped file).

You now have an SVG you can cut with SCAL.

Open SCAL, then Import SVG and find your file -resize if necessary and cut.

Paper Cutz Challenge #6

2009-08-28T01:05:00.004-04:00

I made this card for this weeks Paper cutz Challenge: Make a baby card with the colors green, yellow and orange. I really hope that was the challenge- I read the details and then lost them along with all of my emails, made the card and then started to doubt what I remembered.

I drew up this image realy quick and then just put him/her layered onto matts. The orange is glittered cardstock. I used a martha Lace punch and then added some ribbon. I wanted to add some flowers at the bottom, but my mom didn't have any so I tied ribbon along the bottom, she had the perfect colors-

For more Sewn Together images, check out my other blog

Paper Cutz #5

2009-08-20T23:26:00.003-04:00

This weeks challenge over at Paper Cutz was to make a card with something flying. I had trouble this week, with the new Digi blog getting set up and the materials here are just not what I am used to. I really want my sewing machine :) and all of my tools. I know it's stretching things, but I really didn't have time to make up another image and my mom doesn't have stamps - Sorry Mary, it's a little far reached....It's just not what I wanted it to look like :(

The image I drew and you can view on my digi blog. The paper and embellishments are from Anna Griffin (Michaels clearance.)

Crystal Embelishment Swirls

2009-08-17T13:30:00.003-04:00

I was looking through a book and it had a great idea in it that I wanted to try. I went to show my mom and she was in the middle of taking all of her stickers off the sheat and taking her chipboard off to put it into plastic bags. What was left was the negative space and these beautiful swirls!

My mom got these at a craft warehouse. They are plastic with flat bottoms. I have some that I got at Michaels at home. When I get back I want to make this with crystals. I colored the bottoms with my bic markers to match her herritage book she is making.

I put the plastic sheet on with some temporary tape---hard to see the plastic, but it's there. You can use anything see-through.

I laid them out the way that I wanted after placing some glue down. The best glue for this is Tacky. I use Aleen's- it takes longer to dry on this material, so don't do the next step until it is completely dry.

Here it is all glued down.

Trim around the design and you are done. Use them anywhere you want a little design and texture.

Busy

2009-08-16T15:33:00.002-04:00

I have been so busy with my new blog that I haven't been posting here like I should. It also makes it hard that I do not have my tools and room to do some of the things I like-
BUT I am making a tutorial for some textured -ummmm, not sure what to call them-(Sorry) Anyway, got it done, but have to wait for the glue to dry and I will cut it out and post the details here.

Paper Cutz Challenge #3

2009-08-14T01:23:00.004-04:00

Another week has come and gone. I am still in Oregon and still missing my craft room, but very happy to be here with my family.

This week at Paper Cutz, the challenge was to make a Halloween card without using Orange or Black. My intention was to use Purple and green, but my mom didn't have any purple paper, so I used brown. I really should have made my image smaller. I accidentally left a large brown flower on the card while I colored and when I came back, I decided that I loved the look-very unique.

Paper Cuts #3

2009-08-06T15:54:00.002-04:00

Time for Paper Cutz Challenge --- This week was 1-2-3: 1 Ribbon, 2 Colors and 3 Buttons...I really hope I got that right, LOL -- Make sure to hop over and check out the rest of the Designs made by the Team- They will be posted tomorrow (Friday)

My mom thought of the idea to use (Donkey) and the cactus with brown and green as my two colors. The ribbon is just a small peice on a tag- I was trying to think outside the box on that one :) I cut the cactus out and popped it up on top for more dimmension and added some liquid glaze.

I hope you enjoy the card- If you like the image, check out my other blog at http://www.sewmanycards.blogspot.com/

Paper Cutz Challenge # 2

2009-07-30T23:04:00.002-04:00

It's here! I love the challenges at Paper Cutz, and this week we are featuring my new Sewn Together Digi Stamps. I am so excited to see what the Design Team has come up with this week.

I used Miki Tubing with a winter theme. I don't have my normal tools so everything is kind of square. I am def not used to not having my things for cards. Hopefully next weeks card will turn out better.

Make sure to go check out the DT cards

Please take my survey

2009-07-29T16:51:00.002-04:00

It's an Anonymous Survey--- If you take it and let me either by email or in the comments here, I will enter your name into a drawing for free stamps and templates from Paperwishes. This will remain open until 7/30/09 and I will draw the first name on 7/13, so tell everyone about it-

(It's a very short survey)

Out Camping....

2009-07-29T16:16:00.000-04:00

I just wanted to let everyone know that I will be camping for a few days. I can still get emails and comments on my Blackberry, so keep in touch. There is a prescheduled card that should be here friday morning for everyone to enjoy.

I plan on making lots of new digi design while I'm away, so be prepared for lots of fun--

In the meantime, I want to hold a contest-- Enter your card on the Sew Many Cards Blog with one the Sewn Together images (there are some free) and I will choose my fave one (and get the help with some others) and you will recieve 5 free digis of your choice and for each entry, I will add one more free digi for the winner. So that means if there are 15 cards posted, you will get 15 digis if you win! Please enter your link into Mr. Linky...

CHA Sneak: The GYPSY by Provocraft

2009-07-28T02:13:00.002-04:00

Provocraft is releasing a new product called the Gypsy. It's a new mobile product (approximately 4 x 6) which would allow you work on your creative projects, no matter where you are.

* This device provides Cricut Design Studio capabilities (such as welding, stretching, and rotating), so you could work on your creative projects away from your computer.

* Allows you to organize your artwork by topic, event, creative project and even provides a way for you to organize how you would like images organized on your cutting mat.

* Let's you store all of your Cricut cartridges into the device, enabling you to take all of your Cricut artwork with you wherever you go (within your house, to a gathering with friends/family, in your car, etc).

* Also eliminates the needs to carry your cartridges, overlays and manuals around.

* Device plugs into any PC computer or Cricut machine.
.
Here's an example of how you might use this product: Beth is waiting for her daughter to get out of her piano class, and starts thinking about the baby shower invitations she needs to send out. She pulls her mobile device out of her purse and searches for all flower images available from her purchased cartridges (which have already been loaded onto her device). She finds the one she likes, and starts designing her card with CDS. Later, at a friend's house, she plugs in her device to her friends Cricut, cuts her images, letters (which are already laid out on her "virtual" mat), and finishes her cards that night.

Features:
•Size – 8” x 3” x 1.5”
•Weight – 11 ounces
•Screen Size - 4.7”, 16:9, 480 x 272
•Stylus Length – 3.75”
•Storage – ~4000 Cartridges, 10000+ Designs
•Battery Life – 4 hrs cont. 18 hrs int.
•Compatible with all Cricut Machines and Cartridges
•Weld, size, slant, rotate, stretch, preview
•2 Full content cartridges preloaded

Benefits:
•No computer required
•All CDS functionality on-the-go with no PC
•Interfaces with CDS when connected to a PC
•Stores All Content
•Stores All Overlays
•Stores All Manuals
•Stores CDS Projects

As we understand it, all your cartridge info can be stored on this device. HOWEVER, when you store it, the information is actually removed from your cartridges and installed onto the device, rendering the cartridges EMPTY. Therefore, you still only retain one copy of your cartridges.

It has ample storage on it - a huge amount you would never use up. We also heard it may come loaded with two cartridges worth of images that will NOT BE AVAILABLE for purchase any other way than getting the machine.

*UPDATE: We heard from a source that this machine was set to cost around $200-$250. That was in the early planning stages of development and we do not know for sure if that target price was finally settled upon.

These videos are their press release.
And they're wicked funny.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oT6cK18CbYs&eurl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww%2Ethescrapreview%2Ecom%2F2009%2F07%2Fcha%2Dsneak%2Dprovocraft%2Dgypsy%2Ehtml&feature=player_embedded

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RHMI50T8-5U

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oT6cK18CbYs&eurl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww%2Ethescrapreview%2Ecom%2F2009%2F07%2Fcha%2Dsneak%2Dprovocraft%2Dgypsy%2Ehtml&feature=player_embedded

LOL!

Paper Cutz Challenge

2009-07-27T02:04:00.002-04:00

Just a freidnly reminder to head over to the paper Cutz challenge and submit a card...

Our first challenge day is finally here! I hope you'll join us in this fun and easy first challenge. It's a color challenge to make a card, layout or craft project in pink and green! Can't get any easier then that.

We've added three new members to the design team who will be joining us on next week's challenge. They are Sherri, Sheila and Dee. Sherri has a great blog and you can click on her name to go there and see her wonderful creations. If you click on Sheila and Dee's names on the sidebar under Design Team members, and it will take you to their albums on the Paper Wishes message board and you can see what awesome cards they've created. We're happy to have all of them join the team!

The winner of Paper Cutz Challenge #1 will receive this K & Co/K-ology album kit which comes with album, papers and lots of embellishments in a carry case.

Go on over to see the great things the Design Team has came up with!

Adding Light to eyes

2009-07-24T10:32:00.001-04:00

My digi stamps have a lot of black in them, so they need some shine. All I do is color the entire iris black, then make a small outline around the edge with whatever color I want them and then just put a white dot on the top and two small on the bottom. I have used a white gel pen that works the best, but have also used glaxy markers, and martha Stewart Opaque markers. Someimtes I don't put the small dots on the bottoms.

Paper Cutz Challenge # 1

2009-07-24T00:03:00.000-04:00

I am so excited to be on the Paper Cutz design team and I can't wait to see what everyone brings! Our first challenge is to creat something with Pink and Green- I love those colors together! Come and join in on the fun- (Who can resist these two colors?)

I made this card with my new Sewn Together Cammi Design.

The paper is from K&Company.

The ribbon is Martha Stewart-

Digi Stamp Tips for Coloring

2009-07-20T13:56:00.003-04:00

This is for you Mary ;)

Print digi images on matte photo paper (JetPrint brand). Then spray the image with a very light coat of workable fixative. Let dry and you can color them with my Prismacolor pencils and Gamsol with no bleeding whatsoever. I have also heard of heat setting your inkjet prints in your oven at 200 degrees for 10 minutes, but have never tried it.

Heat set the images with my heat gun and presto - NO SMEARING!!!

Digital Stamps seem to be all the rage right now. With the economy, it is an inexpensive way to get some new stamps. It is also instant gratification for many stampers. You don't have to wait a few days or longer to get your new images. They come right away and all you have to do is print them off and color away!

New Blog

2009-07-20T07:22:00.001-04:00

For anyone interested, I'm going to be moving my cards to a new blog so that this one can remain Tips, Tricks and Tutorials.

http://sewmanycards.blogspot.com/

Eris Cupcake

2009-07-19T21:23:00.003-04:00

I redid the digi stamp of Eris blowing out the candle. I think she turned out really cute. I did this card for the challenge over at The Next Level- The challenge was a sketch with a twist: a raised 3D effect or layered. I cut out he cupcake and layered it on top and then added liquid glass on top of Eris the Elephant

Eris digi stamps available at my store. -This one is not loaded in my store as of today-

let me know if you are interested in purchasing her and I will load her in ASAP.

Paper is from exSCRAPaganza

Beads are from Michaels in the jewewly section

Ribbon was from my stash

Glitter is stickles

Liquid Glass: CTMH

Sewn Together Digital Stamps are in th Shop!

2009-07-18T22:43:00.008-04:00

Miki the Monkey

Ali the Aligator

Cammi the Catepillar

Eris the Elephant

Fawn the Fish

Searah the Sea Turtle

Tayla the Tiger

Toga the Turtle

Come and See...

I added a few digital stamps to my online shop. More will be added shortly.

Let me know what you think. (Please)

SCAL 101 - basic set-up

2009-07-18T17:36:00.002-04:00

Let's start out with some links:
1. Sure Cuts a Lot by Craft Edge Official website and product page
2. Cricut Design Studio Free Trial from Provocraft/Cricut website
3. Inkscape A free program to convert any image you have into the .svg type

What is .svg? It stands for Scalable Vector Graphic, which means that the image is not made up of tiny pixels (dots) of color like we are used to, but actually lines and shapes made from magical mathematical equations in computer code written by powerful wizards from another dimension. How math=pictures I have no idea. The difference is that when you click and drag to make your picture bigger or smaller, it won't get grainy or distorted. The lines stay crisp and clean.

First, you have to connect your Cricut to your puter. For that, you will need a printer USB cord .

Next, you have to have the most recent version of the "Firmware" software for your Cricut. If yours is new then I assume it would be. If not, you have to get it, and the only way to do that is through Design Studio-install the free trial version of Cricut's Design Studio-in the settings, update to the most current version of firmware available-you don't have to use the Design Studio for anything else after that, but I don't think you can uninstall it, or it might uninstall your Firmware upgrade.

What if you want to try the free trial? You can, but when it cuts, it will also cut vertical lines through any designs, making cuts unusable. Go ahead and close out of that.Reference: SCAL works with these versions:Cricut Personal (firmware v1.1 or 1.3)Cricut Expression (firmware v2.1 or 2.3)Cricut Create (firmware v1.51)

Okay, now you install SCAL. I bought mine from Amazon.com, from seller My Cricut Buddy, and not only did they send me the SCAL, but also a disc FULL of fonts (as in, I can't even install them all, it would take forever). You will have more fonts than you could dream of. They also send you some freebie vector files also to get started with, AND a few programs for converting regular image files into the .svg format. Friggin sweet.

You will also most likely want to install Inkscape, which again is a free program that can convert any image into a .svg.

Another thing that I learned is that you must have a Cricut cartridge inserted, or you will do no cutting.

You are now all set up! It's a good idea to do a test run now and make sure all the settings are right. Go ahead and open SCAL.

Looks just like your cutting mat! Click anywhere in this area to put your cursor there. In the "Library" box, chose Fonts or Shapes. In the corresponding new box, select one of the letters or shapes, and when you select it, it should show up on your cutting area. We will get to more detailed use of this program later, but try it now and see if it works.

Press the Scissors button along the top. A message box will come up asking you what version of Firmware you have. Pick the right one, and then it *should* cut for you.

Troubleshooting: Mine did not cut right away. The first few times, I had to also have the Design Studio trial version open, so that it picked up on my updated Firmware. This finally worked itself out, and now I no longer have to do that.

So get settin' up, and I'll start writing the next bit, playing with the SCAL!

Instructions On How To Make Tear Bears

2009-07-16T14:03:00.000-04:00

1. Materials Needed
Handmade Mulberry Paper. You can obtain Handmade Mulberry(thick not thin) paper from your local scrapbook store (possibly), or you can order it on the Internet.
If those places are sold out (which, sometimes they are), do a search on e Bay for "Tear Bear Paper" or "Torn Bear paper" or "Handmade Mulberry Paper" and there are several sellers who are always selling handmade mulberry paper.
Personally, my favorite colors for making tear bears are Maple (a brown-ish color), Rosewood (baby pink), and Icelandic (baby blue). I must stress the importance in using only thick Handmade Mulberry paper for your tear bears. Other papers just don't do a great job. They aren't as thick, and they don't fluff very well.
Scissors for cutting out the pattern that comes with this instruction sheet.
Pencil for tracing the pattern onto the Handmade Mulberry paper.
Medium bristle toothbrush or "Fluffing brush" for fluffing your tear bear.
Adhesive. You can use anything that you normally scrapbook with, as long as it's scrapbook safe and thin. If using glue, uses small amounts as it will seep through the paper.
Cup of water for wetting your paper
Chalk for adding dimension to your bear
Sewing needle for making curly hair
Paint brush or Q-tip for outlining your pattern for tearing
Scrapbook Safe Craft Glue for use ONLY on the eyes and nose of your bear.
Black card stock for eyes, and nose.
White gel pen for eye "dots"

2. Printing Pattern and tracing it to your Mulberry paper
Print the pattern that comes with these instructions. (I use heavy card stock to print my pattern onto)
Cut out all pieces of the pattern.
Turn your mulberry paper to the side that isn't "lumpy". One side is fairly smooth. That's the back side.
Trace each piece of the pattern onto the backside of the Mulberry paper with a pencil. Make sure to leave at least ½ inch around all sides of each of the pieces so that you have enough room to "tear".

3. Tearing Your Bear
Now that your pattern is on the Mulberry paper, you're ready to tear your bear. Start by dipping your paint brush or Q-tip into your cup of water and trace around the outline of your pattern with the water. You want the water to soak into the lines quite well. My favorite way to tear is very slowly and with a bright lamp shining on my work area so I can see what I'm doing.
Let's start with the head. Try this: With the paper on a table, hold the circle (head) down with your left hand and tear (moving up, rather than out) with your right hand. Do it slowly, working around the whole head. If you look closely enough you can see the fibers tearing. That's a good sign because this is what makes your bear fluffy!
Now, remember, each piece must be completely dry before you can start to fluff. Each piece does not have to be perfect and the outline for the bear pieces is just that - an outline. Your bears should each be different and have their own personalities!
NOTE: you can dry tear your pattern (or cut it out for parts you don't want to be fluffy)

4. Fluffing Your Bear
This is the part that many people are confused about: WHAT in the world do you use to get your bears so fluffy and cute? Well, I've found the answer to that through hours of trial and error.
Use your toothbrush or "fluffing brush"to "brush" the bear parts. I find brushing the parts in both directions makes the bears look very fluffy, paying close attention to the very outside edge of each piece. This is the part that you want to be very fluffy. Start by brushing from the center to the outside edge and gently in the opposite direction, from the outside edge to the center. Brush the pieces as much as needed or until you feel it's fluffy enough to go on to the next piece. Start by brushing from the Play around with this method! The more your practice, the fluffier your bears will be!
For a curly hair bear
Wet your pattern pieces with water and then fluff with the needle technique. (Take the tip of a sewing needle and work all over each pattern piece by lifting the top layer of fibers). Do not brush, let fibers dry curly and fluffed
Chalk around each piece as desired. Pink cheeks always look adorable! You may want experiment with chalk colors on scraps of mulberry first. Bears also look adorable with 3 little freckles on each cheek.

5. Piecing Your Bears Together
The ears should be glued behind the head. The snout should be applied to the bottom of the head. The body should be glued behind the head. Arms can be placed either behind or in front of the body, depending on how you like them. Same goes for the legs. Be sure not to apply glue to close to the edge as this will not allow the paper to fluff.

6. Adding Eyes And Nose
Cut eyes out or use a tear drop or oval punch and apply white dots in the lower or upper center of the eyes using your white gel pen.
Using a small amount of scrapbook safe craft glue (and I mean a VERY small amount) adhere the eyes right above the snout. They should be far apart enough that they look "natural". You can play around with this, and I suggest figuring out exactly where you want to place the eyes before you apply the glue.
Cut or punch (I use a paw punch or oval punch) and adhere the nose between the eyes, on the snout. Make sure it's centered.

TIPS:

Some people double their handmade paper pattern to make their bears even fluffier! I do this occasionally and they turn out quite well. You can also use multi layers (3 or 4 layers) One each smaller than the other. You can also use this pattern to make bears out of colored card stock.

SCAL

2009-07-16T09:44:00.001-04:00

I've been using my Cricut for a few years now. I had a great idea that I would purchase the Sure Cuts a Lot software and cut amazing things. I have had SCAL for over a year now.

I have been figuring it out as I go. I'm hoping to share with all of you what I'm learning. Kind of a dummy's set of lessons. Maybe we can all work on this addiction together.

That's right. SCAL (Sure Cuts a Lot) has pwnd me. For one, I keep calling it Sir Cuts-a-Lot, as if it is some knight coming to rescue me from mediocre crafting abilities. Anyway, I am learning, and it's really great. It's a bit tricky to figure out at first, but once you get going, you can do anything with it. You will love it.

SCAL is the knock-off option to Cricut's own Design Studio. Basically, SCAL cuts whatever computer image is in a .svg file type, while Design Studio only cuts from Cricut cartridges that you already own. So, cost-wise, there is no comparision. Even after you spend $70 for Design Studio, you still have to buy every cartridge you want to use with it, either at $80 full price or $40ish if you find them on sale. SCAL is $60ish total, and you can cut anything.

**WARNING** SCAL software is NOT approved in any way by Cricut. They want you to use their own software, and if you use SCAL you will void your warranty with Cricut. They claim that some Cricuts can mess up if you use other software. They currently have no way of knowing if you use SCAL, so it's your own ass if you tell them :) I am in no way responsible if your Cricut breaks and you call up Provocraft and tell them you were using SCAL. Love you though ♥

But then you're thinking, what the heck is .svg and how do I get one?

That is a great question, I thought that too! So I will be posting some basic intro steps to getting it working, as I go along and learn it myself. Cause that's what we do here. I know many of my friends and readers have either gotten Cricuts recently, or haven't yet tried SCAL for themselves. So hopefully this will help us both out. It will take me a bit to explain, so check back for new chapters in SCAL 101. I'll be posting basic steps, descriptions and helpful links for those of you wanting to figure this out too.

Meet Toga

2009-07-15T17:05:00.003-04:00

Here is Toga from the Sewn Together group. I am having so much fun drawing these guys. I am still working on September cards, hence the reason they are all the same theme so far. I will be setting up a new blog with all of them as I get them going. Now to decide if I should sell them and if so, how-

Hope you enjoy Toga the Turtle

Sneak Peek

2009-07-14T15:19:00.001-04:00

Here is a sneak peek of the things to come...

Sewn Together

2009-07-14T15:03:00.003-04:00

DH woke up this morning and said that he had a dream about some stamps that I made. He said that it was a group of animals that were sewn together (One of my domains is SewManyCards.com). He said that there was a turtle, fox and a rabbit and a few others for a total of 6. I got to work this morning and came up with 5 of them-I still need the fox. I drew them up and sent them to DH and he said that I need to make sure that I can draw them in different poses for the cards. That's how this little guy came about-- I thought that since I am working on my September pack, I would do the zebra first. He just screamed "GRAD" to me.

I will make the other cards in the next few days, so bare with me if there are a lot of posts.

I need to name these guys still, so if you have any ideas, let me know.

Cards for August

2009-07-14T07:18:00.003-04:00

I am in the process of making card kits for each month. I am trying to make them all from the same color set and for August I used some orange colors. These go with the Hippo one above.

I drew both images on the front. The Moose is actually a copy from Riley, but I changed his eyes. I hopethey don't look too cheesey since I drew them. :)

Exciting news!

2009-07-13T08:38:00.000-04:00

Mary over at Cardz For U has started a great new challenge blog!
And to top it off, she asked me to be on the design team. I am so honored to be on her new team and can't wait to see what everyone will make. I will be posting more information on it as I get it-
The new challenge site is Paper Cutz Challenge

Also, please take a wander over to http://mycricutscrapbooking.com/ and vote for my Precious Moments album- I could really use a bind it all!

Alright, now for the winner for todays Drawing-- I will be doing another drawing at the end of the month, so if you didn't win today, you still have a chance at the end of the month- what a deal for you!

Congratulations to FunNun - Sister Frances for winning the first drawing!

Cinderella Files..

2009-07-12T16:41:00.003-04:00

I have had a few requests for an SVG file of Cinderella and the Prince dancing and a carriage- so I will put the link here for those that need it --

Carriage (broken apart)
Cinderella Dance

Hippo-Bird Day

2009-07-12T12:27:00.006-04:00

I have decided that I am going to draw most of my images now and if there is a want, I may turn them digital for everyone else.

I made this card after seeing a hippo that I liked and just came up with the idea. DH likes this card (it was his fave out of the 5 I did today) but refuses to say the sentiment.

I drew the image on paper and then used a 1' circle punch for the balloons and added liquid glass to make them shiny. I just did some random stitching on the sides. Very easy card, but I just love my little saying :)

Pros and Cons of Digital Stamps

2009-07-12T07:54:00.001-04:00

Advantages of Digital or Digi Stamps

Here are some of the key advantages of digital stamps:
•Low cost – digital stamps are often lower in cost than traditional rubber or clear stamps. This is because no physical stamp is purchased, just the right to use the image.
•Freebies – many digital stamp companies and artists offer free samples or digital stamps to demonstrate their work and to let you try working with digital stamps or digi images.
•Wide range – as the artists or stamp companies do not need to worry about minimum order levels in order to break even on stamp production, many smaller and independent designers and artists are able to offer their work as digital stamps. This means that there is a wide and growing range of images available, many of which are exclusive to the digital format.
•Easy to store – digital images are stored on a computer, or can be archived onto a cd, making them easy to store. A good computer filing system will help to make it easy to find digital stamps quickly and easily.
•Quick delivery – digital stamps are instantly available for download. This means that stamps can be purchased and received almost instantly. There is no waiting for stamps to be delivered.
•No delivery charges – as digital stamps are downloaded, there is no cost for delivery. This can make a significant saving.
•International market place – digital stamps can be purchased from anywhere in the world without fears about high delivery charges or having to wait a long time for delivery. As many digital stamp companies and artists accept payment via PayPal, it is simple to make payment in a variety of currencies.
•No fears of damage – as long as the digital stamp files are safely stored on a computer, there is no fear of the stamp getting damaged or lost. The image will never deteriorate.
•Images can be manipulated – digital stamp images can be manipulated on a computer prior to being printed. This means that they can be resized, flipped (mirrored) and manipulated in a variety of other ways.
•Environmentally friendly – digital stamps use limited physical resources. There are no wasted packaging materials and little energy is consumed in the delivery of the stamps.

Disadvantages of Digital or Digi Stamps

Here are some of the key disadvantages of digital stamps:
•No stamp - no physical stamp is owned, simply the right to use the image.
•Limited use – the use of digital stamps is limited to items that can be created by using printed paper or cardstock.
•Limited techniques – some techniques are difficult or impossible with digital stamps. Items that are created using the three dimensional nature of a stamp, for instance, are difficult or impossible to replicate with digital stamps.
•Technology – digital stamps are more 'high tech' than traditional stamps. A computer and printer are necessary, so is a basic knowledge of using digital images.
•License – while some digital stamping companies and artists have an angel policy, others use licensing terms that may be unfamiliar to stampers. Commercial licenses, for instance, may be necessary for stampers wanting to sell work created with a digital stamp.
•Quality of printer ink – the quality of printer ink may effect the finished item. Some printer inks run or smear when they are wet.
•Waste paper – digital stamps can waste paper and computer ink. If people print out sample copies or print a single image on a page then this may prove inefficient over time.

Sketch

2009-07-08T08:42:00.003-04:00

Try out this sketchand see what happens..

I made this card 5x7 and cut three circles at 1 3/4" and matted. Just added some dazzles and it's done- VERY simple to make!

Free Project

2009-07-07T17:39:00.005-04:00

If you are interested in getting a free projects, sign up for my newsletter on the right side. This week I am sending a template with instructions on how to make a card box to hold your cards that you make.

What is a sketch challenge?

2009-07-06T12:17:00.005-04:00

A sketch is a rough drawing for the placement of the main elements of your layout: photos, embellies, title, and journaling. You can follow the sketch exactly or use it as starting point to your own creativity. The Paperwishes Message Board is doing this sketch for the month of August. Come on over and join the list-

Here is an example that AmzdByHsGrace did on the Paperwishes MB-

WARNING! Tons (& TONS) of pics to follow!

2009-07-05T19:57:00.006-04:00

This was the first year away from my mom for the 4th of July. It was a little sad and I really missed them, especially as the fire works were going off. The day was great though. We went to Patriots Point, where they had a huge event with food and kids stuff all over the area. The fireworks were shot off the USS Yorktown and I have never seen such a magnificent site!!!! It was so symbolic and not to mention how spectacular the show was. There was a live band playing and then patriotic songs were played while the fireworks were skyrocketing. My daughter was so amazed and said that she, and no one in our entire family, had ever witness something so extraordinary! She is so right, there were so many!!!!

You can see where they were shooting them on the ship, this was towards the end and they were sparying them like guns- it was amazing!

Kasiah, waiting patiently

Kasiah by the big guns!!!

Next to a torpedo

Stryder doing his thinking pose: Lips are sticking out and the scowl shows he is in deep thought.

Stryder loves to do whatever his sister does. I love this picture because it captures the moment. They are both wearing the same shirts. My mom bought them matching and Kasiah wanted to make sure they both wore it today. They both just happened to wear blue shorts too.

Uss Yorktown in the background

Stryder playing with a glowstick.

A man nearby gave him a flag - sat right down and started to wave it.

Sunset with boats in the water.

USS Yorktown, what a site!!!!

The beginning of the show...

Stryder holding tightly to Daddy, but very curious. It's way past bedtime, but he got a glimpse.

These were shootig right off the ledge.

Again, right on deck- just beautiful!

All tuckered out...The End!

Happy 4th!

2009-07-04T14:10:00.002-04:00

Card with Dazzles

2009-07-03T23:06:00.003-04:00

I love my dazzles! I made 5 cards today, all using some of the Dazzles that I have. These cards are VERY simple, only using some sketches, ribbon, paper and brads-one Mom card has chipboard and the other has a rub-on and I used the Martha Stewart Lace punch (again).

Organization

2009-07-02T09:57:00.002-04:00

There have been quite a few questions on organizing, so I thought I would share a few of the ones that I either use now or will be soon-

I have a scraprack, and LOVE it. TheScrapRack™ is not only a wonderful tool, it is an organization system that works!

Categorizing your supplies is key to your productivity as a scrapper. If you can find what you've got you’ll produce pages at record speed and save yourself lots of time and money. Using The ScrapRack ™ 4 Section System will simplify ever step of the Scrapbooking process from putting new supplies away to finding that perfect tiny embellishment.

The 4 Sections:

Alphabets, Numbers and Punctuation
Themes A to Z
The Calendar
The Rainbow

Click the banner below to find out more information:

Ribbon Organization:

Birthday Card

2009-07-02T09:27:00.003-04:00

After looking at the results of my survey so far, I found that a lot of people like simple cards, so that's what I did today- A very easy card with just a few details.

The card is 5X7- I first made my card base and then cut a piece of pink patterned paper down to the same size. Next, I cut a strip of pink paper down to 2X7 and used my Martha lace punch (I use it all the time- thanks again Mary!)

For the ovals, I made two in two sizes. For the pink one I used some shaped scissors to get the scallop edge. The image was stamped on white paper and I used a stamp pad and blotted it all over with pink. I stamped another image and used pop-dots to pop it up. I stamped an additional rose and popped that once more and added a stacked rose dazzle on top.

The birthday sentiment is a Dazzle- Lastly, I added "skittles" on the top.

A very simple card- Let's see what you can do with this now

Blog Award

2009-07-01T20:52:00.003-04:00

I got this great award from Mary over at Cardz For U - It's late, but because my connection was so horrible yesterday and then went away completely, I wasn't able to put my list up here-
Thank you so much Mary, it truly is an honor coming from you! Please make sure to check out her blog- she does these awesome videos and has a great accent!

Here are the rules for accepting this award:

1) Accept the award, post it on your blog together with the name of the person who has granted the award, and his or her blog link.

2) Pass the award to 15 other blogs that you’ve newly discovered. Remember to contact the bloggers to let them know they have been chosen for this award.

Here are the rules for accepting this award:

1) Accept the award, post it on your blog together with the name of the person who has granted the award, and his or her blog link.

2) Pass the award to 15 other blogs that you’ve newly discovered. Remember to contact the bloggers to let them know they have been chosen for this award.

http://cardzforu.blogspot.com/

http://countrylovincardmaker.blogspot.com/
http://countrylovincardmaker.blogspot.com/
http://www.talentisoptional.com/
http://summertimedesigns.blogspot.com/
http://stampsncoffee.blogspot.com/
http://inkastamp.blogspot.com/
http://stampinstuff.blogspot.com/
http://stampinstuff.blogspot.com/
http://sendingyoualittlesmile.blogspot.com/
http://rbwgold.blogspot.com/
http://scrapalbum.blogspot.com/
http://min-hobbyblogg.blogspot.com/
http://magiccapturesphotography.blogspot.com/
http://myblogbycammie.blogspot.com/
http://sandradrydesigns.blogspot.com/

SVG Request

2009-07-01T14:58:00.003-04:00

For those interested in Precious Moments SVG's- pick out one's that you would want converted and I will convert them for you- Here is a great resource with lots of pictures, remember to go through all three-

I wanted to give some steps with pictures on how I "color" my images cut on the cricut. For the first image, I didn't cut the letters that were on the sign and just made the sign blank. I also leave the eyes blank because it's easier to just color them than try to piece them together. The great thing about the PM images is that their eyes are normally all black, but I add some color just because. The image above is okay, but needs more dimension.

The next thing I do is take my black Zig journaling pen and color in the eys and wrote the words on the sign. I also drew in more of the lines in the tree as well as around the lace. Anywhere I thought there should be more definition. I will look at the regular coloring page to get some of the lines, but it doesn't matter if it's not perfect- mine is far from it.

The last thing I do is outline some of the lines in sharpi markers. I did her hair and the grass as well as a few others. Then I added some yellow stickles for some added glitter effects.

Let me know if this is any help at all, and if interested in a PM image, let me know which ones you would like converted.

Internet problems

2009-07-01T10:30:00.002-04:00

I'm sorry I have not posted the files and video that I wanted to. I have had internet problems the last two days, but we switched providers this morning so I am hoping all is well. After reviewing the video, I saw that it was over 18 minutes, so I will have to redo it and post it later.

I have got some great responses from the survey and will make sure to try my best to get things on this blog that y'all want to see. I am really hoping to make Design SOS a one-stop-place to come to for questions, tips and help, so please let me know what I can do to help that along.

Thanks for supporting and following me.

Woo Hoo

2009-06-30T13:46:00.001-04:00

A couple months ago I submitted 4 cards to CardMaker Magazine and yesterday I got an email that they selected one of them for their March 2010 Issue- I am so honored. I have been subscribing to the magazine

Files - Precious Moments

2009-06-30T06:49:00.003-04:00

Here are a couple files for SCAL- One is SVG and one SCUT. I will be adding more soon. I changed some of them that are in my book so I will redo them and post them too. I also have made a video on how to do this in case you want to make changes on the coloring book pages, as I always do.

Here is the SVG for the girl above with the bonnet - I took out the grass in leaves in this one
Here is the SCUT for the girl with the bunny below

Let me know if you prefer SVG or SCUT and I will make save the files with what the majority likes.

Have a great day and hopefully I will be back later today with some more posts-It's a busy day!

June Paperwishes Card Swap

2009-06-29T11:09:00.004-04:00

This is the card I made for Sonshine in the Paperwishes June Card swap. The card is made with dazzles and PW paper

Precious Moments Album - Completed...Almost

2009-06-29T09:15:00.014-04:00

First, I want to apologize for double posting - Second, sorry for the tremendous amount of pics. The album shape came from an idea I saw from someone named rainedakota - I usually make my own shapes, but wanted to do something more simple, so I scraplifted it from her.

The Album is aprox 11 X 11"

My Precious Moments album is finally done, other than some more embellishing I want to do on some of the pages. I will be posting a tutorial on how I converted the coloring book pages to these paper piercings later.

The cover shows the detailed roof- I cut the shingles out and inked them all separately and used a fiskars punch for the top window ledge.

Pages 4 and 5

Page 5

I put some flock on the bunny to add some fluffiness to him.

Tag holder was cut with tags, bags and boxes Cricut cartridge.

Pg 5

I used white fabic paint on the lamb. The bunny is a sticker that I put onto cardstock and cut out. I didn't like the original bird that was in the coloring page as it was too difficult to see what it was.

Page 6 and 7

Pg 6--

I still need to add some more flowers around the rope on this little girl.

The right side of this page holds a couple tags that she can write on.

Pg 7

Metal plate and a wonderful dazzle

Page 8 and 9

Still needs some flowers around the fountain. I added liquid glass to the bird bath to make it look more like water inside. The little duck is a rubbon that I put onto cardstock and cut out, also added liquid glass to him too.

Pg 9

Page 10 and 11

I erased the original words from the coloring page and wrote my own on the signs.

I thought that this page would be used so that the team can write well wishes for the baby- DH like that idea, so we will see if he does that :)

Edited to add the binding-

More Bow Tying

2009-06-28T16:18:00.006-04:00

I have seen quite a few people wanting to tie bows and having some problems, so I am going to make this post full of links on how to tie and techniques. I will update it as I get new links...

Lets Fork

Crafter's Companon

Bows & Flat Knots Video

Bow Tying Video

Stamp TV- Cheater Bows

Classic Bow- on this blog

Tailored Now- This blog

The Pink Stamper video- Bow Tying

Video Tutorial - Tie a Simple Bow with Doublesided Ribbon

Precious Moments

2009-06-27T18:48:00.003-04:00

I just love piecing these together, it's like doing a puzzle! My weekends are just not as productive as I want. DH's computer is broke so he has one that doens't work too well, and he feels the need to steal mine all the time LOL I use my computer to cut my images and make my laoyout and that means I just fiddle with whatever I have out already. I did manage to get this one done ealier this morning and now he is off to the store, so I have a sec to post :)

Precious Moments SVG

2009-06-26T14:16:00.004-04:00

I have been playing with these things for two days straight and figured out the best way to make them work. I added some flock on the bunny, stickles on the dress and liquid glass on the bunny dress and the bows. --

I saw someone else with a couple files, but when I tried to use them, I didn't like how much of the shadow there was so I made my own. If you want a copy of the SVG, leave me a comment with your email. I would put a link here, but my virus protection just expired and I have heard some attacks on the upload sites, so I'm staying away.

Precious Moments House

2009-06-26T07:10:00.006-04:00

Sneak Peak...Not complete, but wanted to post up some pics to show you I have really been doing something. The pages are not sewn together yet, and just layed together to show how it will look on the front once it's put together.

I am making this House shaped Album for DH's manager- she is going on maternity leave in a couple weeks and I wanted to make something for her. I'm not sure why I chose Precious Moments, but I did. I took coloring book pages and converted them so that I could cut them out with my cricut. I have only completed 4 pages and need a total of 11. The paper piecing is a little detailed and with a 19 month-old baby who doesn't like napping much these days, it's hard.

The little bear with his presents to the baby- The bow is from a fabric flower that I cut in half- Added Stickles for the dots.

The door is the same door from the Minnie Mouse Cartridge, just used the door from her house and added a flower and Big brad from Paper Wishes- The knob is a small brad.

More will be added to this page, I'm just not sure yet what :) I used the Fiskars Heart Edge punch for the tops of the windwos.

The rooof tiles are all cut individually, inked and layered for some depth.

This image was a coloring page that I converted and tweeked up so that I could cut it with my cricut-- I hand drew the eyes as I do on most things to make them sparkle a little more.

The baby's name will be Makayla. I am just hoping that DH got the spelling right. THis will be the first page once you open the book.

I Followed another Image and just added my own details to make it look simular.

I will post more pics as I get them done, but it's turning out to be so cute! I just have to fine a way to piece those images together without a little boy trying to lend a helpnig hand.

4th of July...Already

2009-06-26T07:05:00.004-04:00

I can't believe it's already almost Independence Day...It's a sad time of year for me- We recently move to the East coast and have no friends or family here and 4th of July weekend everyone gets together and goes camping. There are usually about 50 friends and family members there. Everyone chooses a meal to cook and then you bring enough for everyone and we share. The camphosts all know us and love the idea. This year, I won't be there with everyone to celebrate. It will be the first year :(

I made this card last week but forgot to take a pic of it and DH brought it to work- I finally got it back yesterday. The stamp is House Mouse and I just did a bunch of layers. icopied it almost exactly from http://stampsncoffee.blogspot.com/-- I just found her blog and think her stuff is AMAZING!!!! I'm sending this to my mom because I showed her the card and she loved it on the other site.

Sneak Peak...

2009-06-25T18:29:00.001-04:00

I was going to add a couple pics of something I'm working on, but my camera battery went dead--I will charge it and update it as well as some SVG files that I did from some Precious Moments Coloring pages

Sympathy Card

2009-06-23T10:42:00.004-04:00

I made this one for someone my husband works with. If I remember right, her dad died. Sympathy cards are always so hard to make. I chose colors in the mauve family for this and used some stitched dazzles for the big butterfly. I then used the "innie" of the dazzle and ut it onto the darker mauve paper and cut it out and layered them together for even more dimmension. I used Martha Stewart punches on both the borders towards the bottom. I LOVE the lace punch and can't stop using it. I was going to add the sentiment on the front, but I opted for more butterflies instead. I even put some of the wonderful paper on the back. I may still add a couple pearls to the butterflies- I'm just never satisfied! :)

Organizing and Packing For A Crop

2009-06-22T14:01:00.002-04:00

One of the most difficult challenges we face is what to pack for a cropping party. Crops are times for us to get together with others who share the hobby and get some pages done. We socialize and create and gab and snack. Crops are one of the best parts of scrapbooking. We get to enjoy our hobby and our friends at the same time. What fun!

I use the scraprack, so my solution is a little simpler than this method that I found online. For those that want to pack, here are some hints that I found-The dilemma is packing for a crop. How will you know what to bring and what to leave home? You do NOT want to pack everything you own. You'd be shuffling supplies all night and your friends would be giving you dirty looks for hogging all the table and floor space! You want to stay focused and organized. You want to travel as light as possible. How can we do it? Here's help!

When I want to get a lot done at a crop, I pre-pack and I preplan. Crops usually cost something so I feel I want to really use my time wisely. The few minutes it takes to think before I go pays me dividends later tenfold in finished pages!

Plan Ahead and Streamline:

You may take a bin or a tote or a bag to crops. Whether you use one or the other is not as important as whether you PLAN what goes into your supply tote or bin. Take only what you feel you will truly use.

Plan to be simple.

Pack your bag so that you have favored tools like cutters and adhesive as well as any special items you need for specific layouts to be done that day. Make page kits. I place the photos, accents, special papers, and journaling together for each layout set in its own page protector in a binder. Placing your page kits in a "To Do" or "In Progress" binder helps you focus on the goals for THIS crop. You can also use a box and stack page kits in it or use an accordion file. Again, what container you choose is not as important as the actual process of PLANNING AHEAD.

Be Realistic:

I take only as many page kits in my binder as I can realistically get done at a crop. If you know you only get one page done an hour, why even take 12 kits to a 3 hour crop? Guesstimate your regular rate of work and plan accordingly. Toss in one or two more kits than you think you'll finish but be reasonable. Streamline what you take along to work on. Your attitude should be realistic, focused and determined! Determine before you go that you will NOT be a perfectionist and that you WILL get pages completed.

Streamline the Tool Kit:

Most of us have way more tools and goodies than will fit in a tote. So we have to pick and choose what to take along. I keep certain tools in my tote all the time. Others I pack only if I am doing a layout that will need them. We will talk about that more in a minute.>

Be Consistent:

Once you are at a crop, you want to quickly find your tools over and over again. In order to find what you brought along, have a system that makes sense to YOU. Learn to put things away and clean up after each layout is finished. I basically store my items for a crop by type in my tote. Paper in a certain place, adhesive here, punches there, and tools in another spot. Be consistent in where you store your items. After a few crops you will the locations of your tools memorized.

Where's the Paper?

I believe strongly in preplanning page kits and JUST taking them to a crop to work on. When I make up page kits I usually add the paper for that layout in the packet. However I do allow myself some flexibility by carrying along some extra paper choices and colors. This system also gives me a place to stash scraps after each layout until I get them home.

Tools: Compartmentalize:

I keep certain tools in my tote all the time. I rarely take these out. To know where things are at, I compartmentalize my tote. On the left side of my tote I keep adhesives of all types. From vellum tape to double sided tape, Hermafix, 3M sheets, Wonder Tape, metal glue and extra Easy Stick adhesive, it's all here on the left side. Clear pockets on a tote make it easy to see right where your supplies are located.

Tools: Idea Books, Stamp Sets and More:

On the front side of my tote I keep my favorite idea book, Becky Higgins Creative Companion. I also keep a laminated timeline guide to my children's ages and grades each year, and several more tools like rubber stamp ABC sets, corner rounder, a small quote book, q-tips for chalking, generic tags, and wire in this flap. On the right side of my tote there is another flap that opens up and this is where I keep all my hand-held punches, a few favorite decorative scissors and my hand held eyelet setter

Pencil Cases are Great Organizers for Smaller Tools:

When my plastic paper bin is closed, I store my small tool caddy and pencil boxes along the side. In one pencil case I keep my colored pencils. In another pencil case I keep my Making Memories Rub On ABC's. In a black zipper caddy I keep my little hammer, eyelet setter and mat, stylus, small pliers for wire work, and a sponge clip stick for chalking or inking.

Basic Tool Caddy:

I also have a Cropper Hopper flat pack and I take it everywhere! It holds my absolute basics like a 12 Fiskar Trimmer and my little scissors. It also holds Coluzzle cutters, Easy Stick adhesives, black pens, a fine glue pen, red-eye pen, brown chalk, grey chalk, black ink, a pack of mini buttons, two Quote books, extra blades, and Undo.

With my flat pack at my side, I am ready for any scrap emergency! Sometimes I JUST take my flat pack and my page kits and I am good to go!! You don't have to have this brand of caddy but it will help you if you keep all your most-used tools together for efficiency.

Pens:

However I often do like to take my whole tote to a crop. And in the top I keep all my other colored pens. This particular holder came with my tote but if I didn't have one, I would use a large pencil box or plastic hinge-and-lid storage box the size of a small shoebox.

All I add to the top of this tote is my "To Do" Binder. I zip it all inside and off I roll and go!

Have Fun!

You will want to keep your goals focused and your workspace tidy. To get the most possible done at a crop, remember the basic rules of packing up for a scrapbooking party, retreat or convention.

Plan ahead and pack page kits.
Be realistic: you don't need to bring everything with you. And when you scrap, no perfectionism allowed.
Streamline your tools: take your basic tool kit and other tools for the specific pages you plan to do.
Be Consistent and put tools away after use and put them in the SAME place every time. It will save you effort and time in the long run.
Of course, take a little snack (like chocolate) and a bottle of water for refreshment and HAVE FUN!

Organization

2009-06-22T09:19:00.004-04:00

My husband is always calling me a "nerd" because I love organization. I really didn't think I was organized until I started working my first office job and people would tell me how I drive them nuts with my organization. I do have a place for everything- I want to find things fast and hate looking for things, knowing that I just saw it somewhere. So for today, I am going to give some tips on organizing.

Idea Books and magazines:

I have file folders in a small holder labled with the following ( I wish I had a couple others):

Baby - For anything baby, kids, childlike etc.

Christmas - Any Holiday in the winter

Cinco De Mayo

Congratulations

Dad - Fathers Day, anythng "masculine"

Easter

Fall

Friend

Get Well

Graduation

Halloween

Independence Day

Love

Military

Mom

Other/Misc - For anything that does not have a category

Sorry/Sympathy

Spring

St. Patricks Day

Summer

Thanksgiving

Thank You

Winter

Versus

The labels above are the ones that I have found to use the most. As I find pictures of cards or layouts I like, I print them and file them for future use. I also go through my magazines and make copies if I like both sides of a page and file them as well. Now, when I need quick inspiration, I go there to get it. Oh, and I almost forgot-I also store my already made cards there. You have to organize this on where you would put the theme. For me, when I look at a card with a purse on it, I think "friend". Someone else may not.

Birthday Card

2009-06-21T21:16:00.005-04:00

I saw this great Penny Black stamp and knew I had to make a card for it. I love pink and it just came together. I also sprayed it again with my homemade glimmer mist, in pink this time, and sprayed it with vanilla pound cake scent--- My daughter loves the smell. When you ckick on the bottom picture, you can see the glitter in it better, but just don't look at my messy coloring. I used my Bic markers for this one.

Stryder's new Seat

2009-06-21T21:12:00.002-04:00

We keep Stryders diapers in this little pail. He decided yesterday that he wanted to sit in it and now he keeps dumping the diapers and setting in front of the TV and climbs in. He doesn't want much TV (maybe a total of 30 minutes a day) so it's funny to see him acting this scene out. You can see how small the container is when DH is holding it.

She's 9!

2009-06-19T13:14:00.004-04:00

My daughter turned 9 yesterday! Wow, she is getting so big. Here are some pics of her opening her gifts. We just got her a couple movies and some fishing stuff. She is not a girly girl and loves the outdoors. She was very excited because this means she gets to go fishing with her dad. Stryder was also likeing the Bobbins. He wouldn't give them up, even for a trade on one of his favorite cars. It was a good day. Even with her messy hair, I think she is beautiful!

You make me smile...

2009-06-19T13:03:00.005-04:00

I made this card for someone that I would consider a "true friend." I met this person on the Paperwishes board and have often gone to her just to talk and she has always been there to listen to my rants. The inside of the card only says "You make me smile." So if you don't want a sneak peak before you get it, don't look any further :-)
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I put some crackle over the top of the image to give it an older look. I love how it turned out IRL--

I made this flower with my cricut and Plantin Schoolbook cart. I cut the flowers at different dimmensions and then sprayed them with my homemade glittermist. I also used some pop-dots in-between the flowers for more dimmension and inked the edges. Then I curled the ends and sparyed the flower with some scented oil called Vanilla Pound cake...mmmmmm

Here is the finished card in all its glory!

June PaperWishes Card Swap

2009-06-19T10:19:00.007-04:00

I decided that I wanted all of the cards in the June PW card swap in one place so I can drool over them. Every single one of them has turned out great--Thanks Mary for the great site for this video!!!!

So here they are so far:

Make video montages at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Making Slide Mount Shadow Boxes

2009-06-17T21:17:00.000-04:00

What you'll need:

foam tape
slide mounts
memorabilia
crafting knife or scissors
glue
pattern paper (optional)
Transparencies or sheet protectors

Okay so you have a few bulkier items you just cant part with or convert to picture. And they just have to be included in your book, say a hospital band from a child's birth, or a necklace that your child made. Here's a super fast, fun and easy way to include them.
Use a shadow box. Shadow boxes are simply a box lifted off the page, allowing things to be placed on the inside.

So lets get started.

1. First you'll need to cut the slide mount in half. If you choose to use a plastic slide mount, you may have to pull the two sides apart. What you want is only one side.

2. Now take your glue and glue down the transparency to one side of the slide mount half. Let dry completely. Once dry, yo can cut away any extra transparency hanging off the outside of the slide mount. DO NOT cut away the inside portion.

3. You can now decorate the opposite side of the slide mount half that you glued the transparency to. If you wish not to decorate, skip to next step.

4. Now apply foam tape to the side of the slide mount that the transparency was glued to. DO NOT take off outside paper to the tape. Otherwise you had better know where your box is going. :)

5. Now that you have your top to the shadow box, you'll want to figure out where it will go on your page. Once that is done, I suggest drawing a faint line with a pencil around the box, so you'll remember.

6. OPTIONAL: You can now glue a small piece of patterned paper to the spot where you wish to place the shadow box. Make sure the paper is the same size as the shadow box. It's also helpful if the paper contributes to the page, but is completely different to any other papers on the page. This will help to bring your eyes to focusing on the box.

7. Place and secure (however you wish) your memorabilia to the area that will become the inside of the shadow box. This will be where you put the paper down in step 6. Make sure that none of your memorabilia extends past the inside edges of the shadow box top.

8. Peel off paper on foam tape and carefully press shadow box top down.

9. Wipe sweat off brow, and admire your handy work. Congratulations. You have successfully created a mini shadow box. ;)

TIP: These instructions can be altered to fit any size o box you need for your pages. So if the slide mounts are too small, create a larger slide mount on your own and go from there. :)

Good luck.

Sketch

2009-06-16T14:03:00.002-04:00

I almost forgot, with all the craziness! I will start putting submissions here too!

Spellbinders Die in the Cuttlebug

2009-06-16T13:15:00.001-04:00

How to Use a Spellbinders Die in the Cuttlebug:
Cutting Sandwich
1. A plate
2. C plate
3. Spellbinders die, blade side up
4. Paper or cardstock
5. B plate
6. Roll through Cuttlebug

Note: You will also require the Spellbinder Tan embossing Mat to emboss with Spellbinder dies- available separately

I do not have any spellbinders, but I'm sure with practice you can use other mats as described on other tutorials I have done with the cuttlebug.
Please be careful and do not force anything through.

New technique- Photo Corners

2009-06-16T08:44:00.004-04:00

I found some interesting ideas in a book called Creativity Tips for Scrapbookers, made by Creative Keepsakes and thought I would share...

Photo Corners As Objects
Repurpose the shape of photo corners to create other things, such as Flower Blooms and Leaves
1. Stick photo corners pointing in towards each other onto die cut tag background in the shape of a flower. Each corner is like a petal for the bloom.
2. Add brad to flower center.
3. Fold larger photo corner in half, but slightly askew as seen in sample picture. Temporarily affix it to tag.
4. Backstitch a stem with embroidery floss.

Photo Corners As Arrow Heads
Turn the shape on its side and add a stem for fun, dimensional arrows.
1. Fill center area of base patterned paper with adhesive. Scrunch sewing pattern tissue and attach to paper. You can make it as flat or as rumpled as you choose!
2. Cut a large heart out of second patterned paper piece and ink edges. Attach this and the photo to the top of the tissue paper.
3. Journal onto your Heidi Swapp labels and then affix to heart center and base of photo. Trace around the labels with a pen and then a line of glitter glue.
4. Paint over metal photo corner to match your page. Let dry, and sand to distress.
5. Affix metal corner to page as shown and then affix ribbons "flying" from the "arrow head".

MORE PHOTO CORNER THOUGHTS:

* Look for photo corners in metal, paper, acrylic, chipboard, as rubber stamps, and even as a font here at 2Peas! Use your imagination in tailoring these mediums to your needs!

* Use photo corners to accent blocks of patterned paper or cardstock on your layout.

*Go retro and classic with a black page and black photo corners to highlight your important photos.

*Make a border the entire length of your page with happy little photo corners all in a row. :)

*Trace photo corner shapes onto patterned paper and cut to create personalized embellishments

Beach Pics

2009-06-16T08:00:00.004-04:00

Here are some of the pics from our Sunday trip to Folly Beach. I love that we are only minutes from a great beach. Now we just have to make the time to go.

Updates

2009-06-15T15:53:00.002-04:00

After some calling to the hospital and doctors, we fially got the results today. The first answer, the nurse said she was not suppposed to say, but he did not have CF, but the DR. still needed to talk to us. Great NEWS! Although I knew he was okay, it's still pretty nerve wracking not knowing for sure. The Dr. is still concerned about his weight and wants us to see about fattening him up and seeing him at the end of July. This ought to be fun!!!

I am finally feeling better too. We went to the beach yesterday. The water was so warm, not what I am used to as the Oregon Coast waters are never warm, even in the middle of the summer. Yesterday was a much needed break away from the stress of life and it was the first day in a while that I could leave the 20ft perimeter of the bathroom. I will post some pics later (I forgot the camera in the car).

Ultimate Crafter's Companion

2009-06-13T17:06:00.003-04:00

The Ultimate Crafters Companion is everything you will ever need for your card making and paper craft projects in one handy and portable carry case. It builds on the features of the award winning Top Score and Enveloper tools, and is designed to take your crafting onto the next level by providing an array of crafting utilities at your fingertips. Perfect for creating professional looking cards in a variety of imaginative styles: Pop out, K-card, embossed and classic. It was also designed to create boxes, trim paper, make envelopes, make bows, and even store your projects in progress. Also included is a video tutorial DVD. Constructed of durable plastic with a double-hinge system that allows this unit to lie completely flat, giving you approximately 14" x 23" of work surface. Everything stores quickly and easily inside, so you can fold-n-go or fold-n-store in a hurry.

I had the crafters companion enveloper and also the topscore both and yet, I LOVE this one even more! I have made a few cards since recieving it and have used it for all of them-either with the bow maker, folding or envelope. The cutter is a small utility blade in an enclosed mechanism, so replacements should be easy and cheap.

I did look up some other reviews and this is what people said:

4/5 I am using this product for my daughters engagement party for her favors. Great for making end of year gifts for teachers, etc. You can take it with you outside or if you are going on a trip.
I just wish they gave you more video projects and maybe one more board of designs, a heart and butterfly is very limited

5/5 I have made boxes, scallop edged tri fold cards, and envelopes. I am looking forward to doing a lot more with it. It is user friendly. I only wish the accessories would stay in place better than they do if you open it upside down.

1/5 Although the concept of this tool is great, the execution is awful. You spend more time trying to put the thing back together than you will spend using it. Every time you open it to use it, the hindges that hold it together come off. The tools fall out every time you open it. Some people may find ways around that, but should you have to? You spent your hard earned money on it, it should work as it is suppose to with out any modifications.

2/5 This would be better if it had a ruled score line base. Sometimes I just need to score at 1" or 2" and this doesn't have that feature. The CD is good and easy to follow, but I just need the basic ruled score lines as well.

4/5 The actual boards are solid strong plastic, it is the hinges,closure, and tools that I have an issue with. When the hinges and closure finally break, I'm sure it will be soon, I will use velcro strips to keep it together.

The actual boards are great! Easy to use, makes folds perfectly. Love the box maker, it makes it so easy to construct different size boxes with lid that fits perfectly.

I would buy again, but would realize that it is for the actual boards, not for the additional features.

4/5 I use this mostly to make cards. The DVD that comes with it has some great ideas for making unique cards and mini books. I haven't had a chance to do them all yet, but the ones I have tried were relatively easy with a little practice. My major gripe with this board is it's a bit clumsy, the hinges sort of move around making it a little difficult to handle. Also, the tools which are stored in the board do not click in and fall out whenever I open it- annoying, but not enough that I wouldn't buy it again. I think I'll try some velcro to solve the problem. Don't buy this for the cutter as it is a cheap plastic thing with a straight blade. Stick with a regular trimmer.

5/5 I use the crafters companion for cards, scrapbooking, and making envelopes. Everything is just so handy and well thought out. The DVD that came with the tool is just wonderful with very specific directions and lots of ideas on how to use product. I'm glad I bought the crafters companion and would recommend it to any papercrafter, it just makes everything so easy.

As of todays date, you can get the crafters companion at Ritz Camera for 46.99 + Shipping-- I did hear of their sister site that offers free shipping though. The site http://www.scrapbookingalley.com/

Digi stamps using Microsoft Word

2009-06-12T09:47:00.000-04:00

Go to Insert, click on Picture, then Clip Art.

In the Search Box, type the theme of clip art that you want to access, for example: flowers or butterflies.

From the Search, click on the picture that you want to insert in your document.

Now, double-click on the picture. The picture will be selected and you can format it.

If you have Word 2003, you are going to see the Format Picture toolbar appear when you double click on the picture. If you have Word 2007, you will be able to access the Adjust group from the Format tab.

Now, you can change the look of your clip art by using Recolor (2007) and converting the image to Black and White.

Print this image and color it with your favorite markers, pencils, etc. Also, you can leave the colors or change them using the different options in Recolor if you are using 2007.

Watercoloring and embossing

2009-06-11T15:55:00.006-04:00

I wanted to try a new technique yesterday and it came out so good on my card, I thought I would do a sort of tutorial on it. I haven't used my Martha WWatercolors in a while, but found out through some videos that they work well with an aqua painter. Basically, it's a paintbrush with water inside. I wanted to see if I embossed each color seperately if it would give a good outlined dark color but not be too much- it worked out great! Listed above are the tools that I used, including my embossing markers, powder, Marth markers, embossing gun, a zig marker, scrap paer to wipe the aqua brush off and my printed design.

I started of using my zig marker and just outlining the image. I didn't do this carefully, just wanted a sort of drawing look.

I then used my dark green and brown embossing marker and outlined the tree, and then used my heat gun to emboss it after putting the clear embossing powder on top.

I did the same thing with the sand and grass using the lighter brown and green colors. I also did the blue water and ripples.

I used my Martha "Putty" and made two lines under the embossing brown.

Using my Aqua Painter, I spread out the brown down to the grass.

I did the tree here with Chestnut and Evergreen markers

The grass was using the Glade color marker, spreading it with water and wiping clean after each color.

I used Cornflower for the water, just coloring around the outlines and finishing with the aqua painter.

I used Cornflower on the top of the pier and also on top of the sand dune.

If you noticved in teh top pics, I had a finger print on the left side, I just cut it off and inked the edges to make sure that it would still look okay :)

Now the finishing touches- I added some more Putty under the grass.

Inked the edges and blended the sand some more and here is the finished design. On my original one, I sprayed it with glitter mist, but it took a long time to dry and I didn't want to wait this time around :)

Glimmer Mist

2009-06-11T15:04:00.002-04:00

I have been using some glimmer mist on a lot of my prjoects recently and came across a post about some great ways to save money by making your own. I tried it and it works great. Here is the recipe for everyone to try:

Material Used
mini mister bottles(inkssentials) or any spray mister should work
perfect pearls or pearl ex
rubbing alcohol
water

fill the bottle 1/2 way full with rubbing alcohol
fill rest with water leave a lil room for shaking
added about 1/8 teaspoon of perfect pearl pigment powder
Shake well between each spray as powder will go to bottom.

****FOR TINTED VERSION ADD 3 DROPS OF ANY COLOR ALCOHOL INK OR REINKER****

Going to Dr....

2009-06-11T09:00:00.004-04:00

Today is the testing for Stryder to see if he has Cystic Fybrosis. I'm pretty confident he does not have this and believe the Dr. to just be cautious. He is a very active little boy who loves to eat and then it just metobolises so quickly that he can't get the fat he needs. We should get the results within 24 hours, but I'm pretty positive about the entire thing. We just have to get his dirty diapers under control LOL.

Thank you to everyone for your thoughts and prayers- I really do appreciate them!

Birthday Card

2009-06-11T06:40:00.003-04:00

I have been sick again. This time, it was so much worse! I tried to come up yesterday afternoon to make a card and got sick just walking up the stairs. It was awful. I still feel ill, but a whole lot better than the last two days. Oh, and our cable went out. We took our box back to the cable company and were just going to see about keeping internet (or getting it from another company) and cancelling TV cable. It was out yesterday and I assumed that it was because of that- but as it turned out, everyone's was out in the area and it came back on in the evening.

I made this card for someone DH works with. He wanted a card with a beach and maybe some palm trees. He had no special request forr colors or anything, so this is what I came up with. I made the bow with my crafters ultimate companion. The picture is water-colored with Martha Stewart markers and I embossed the lines with colored pens and clear embossing powder. I added real shells in the corner too. He also gave me the most beautiful pic of him and his girlfriend in front of the bridge here in Charleston at sunset. I added it on the inside and decorated that too. Since it's personal, I will not be adding those pics, but it was a stunning photo! I really hopes she and he like the card.

I will be doing a tutorial later on the embossing and watercolor technique I used later today.

Giggles

2009-06-09T05:58:00.006-04:00

So this one is a little of DH making some really wierd noise and Stryder laughing. Again, I apologize for the length, I don't have an editing software program yet.

Please excuse the boxes, we are going through our videos and movies to sell them at a garage sale.

The family watching AFV

2009-06-09T05:41:00.003-04:00

I am going to be loading a couple videos for my family, so bare with me. This first one is of my son watching America's Funniest Videos with his sister. Every night we watch it with the family. It's the cutest thing as Stryder lays beside his sister and laughs and makes the "ouch" yelps along with everyone else, but I'm sure he has no idea what he is laughing about. It's hard to hear him sometimes, but it's for the family. Sorry for the length too.

Tips

2009-06-08T13:08:00.001-04:00

• How many small pieces of ribbon do you own? Here's a quick way to use those without tying your fingers in knots. Cut off a small piece of the ribbon and set it aside. Take the remaining ribbon and adhere the ends to the item that you want a knotted ribbon on. Then take the cut ribbon piece and tie a knot around the adhered piece of ribbon. It takes less ribbon this way since you aren't going around the entire item.
• To dry emboss an item when you don't have a light box or are using dark paper, put your paper on your template and use your stylus like a crayon and rub it across your paper/template. Once you see the basic pattern appear, use the fine point on your stylus and go over the design to create a well-defined embossed creation.
• If your layout has pockets and you want to put it in a page protector, cut slits so that you can pull the items out of the pockets. Use a straight pin to mark the corners of the pocket while the layout is in the page protector, and then use an exacto knife to cut the slit. Voila! Interactive layout

Old Card

2009-06-08T11:18:00.002-04:00

I am posting this so my mom can see it LOL-- I made this a while back but never loaded here, I don't think. If I did I appologize

Paper Piecing Patterns

2009-06-07T21:08:00.001-04:00

Below are a couple of web sites where you can find numerous paper piecing patterns to download:
- http://scrapbooking.about.com/cs/freepattern
- www.cropycats.com

Quick Fixes for Little Scrapbooking Mistakes

2009-06-07T21:05:00.000-04:00

I found this great article on another MB and thought I would share:

by Amy Stultz (Jan 11, 2006)

Every scrapper has been there. You have worked all evening on the perfect layout. It is a contest-worthy creation. So beautiful in fact, that a small tear is emerging from the corner of your eye. The perfect layout. The be-all and end-all of layouts.

You lovingly and gingerly carry this magnificent creation into the next room to show it off to your beloved family, all the while preparing yourself to appear modest when faced with their inevitable praise. And then what happens? You hand it to your darling husband who replies, "It is great, honey, but is that how you spell ‘tomorrow'?"

Grrrr....are there two m's or two r's? What's a scrapper to do? Here are a few of my favorite tried-and-true quick fixes.

Rub-On Placement Mistakes

Use a Q-Tip with a small amount of Un-Du on the tip to rub just the portion of the rub-on you choose to remove. Allow the area to dry thoroughly before placing a new rub-on in the same spot.

Use the tip of an Exacto knife to gently scrape the rub-on off the surface of the paper.

Use an adhesive eraser, found in many craft stores, to gently rub the rub-on off.
Incomplete Rub-On Transfer

Use a matching gel pen to fill in the missing spots.

Place an identical rub-on over the surface and add in the missing areas.
Misplaced Stickers

Use Un-Du to remove the sticker. Place the sticker adhesive-side-up to dry. Once the adhesive is dry it will become sticky again.

Gently peel the sticker up and use an adhesive eraser to remove any residue. This method typically ruins the sticker, but does not damage the layout.

Cover the sticker with a larger sticker.

Cover the sticker with a square of coordinating paper. The key is to make it look intentional. Use this new area as a mat for new embellishment.
Misspelled Computer-Generated, Hand-Lettered, or Stamped Journaling

Retype, letter, or stamp the misspelled word onto a piece of cardstock in a slightly smaller font size. Cut out and mat with coordinating paper, and place over the spelling mistake. Do this to several other words to make it blend smoothly into the layout.

Retype, letter, or stamp an entire sentence onto coordinating paper and adhere over the sentence with the mistake.
Small Tears in Pattern Paper or Cardstock

Lightly sand the entire piece of paper for a shabby chic look.

Place another element over the tear.

Ink the entire paper for an aged effect.
Stray Ink Smudges

Lightly ink the entire layout for a distressed look.

Lightly sand the surface of the paper to remove the ink. Sand the paper in several other places for continuity.

Layer an embellishment over the area.
Mis-Cut Paper

Trim the same amount off your paper all around and mat it on a coordinating pattern or color.

Cut the paper in half and pair it up with another half of coordinating paper. Mount both halves onto a piece of cardstock to create a new full sheet.

Cut the remaining paper into strips. Space the strips evenly across a piece of cardstock or behind a photograph as a photo mat.
Partially Stamped Images

Re-ink the stamp. Hold the layout on a light box or sunny window. Line the inked stamp up with the partially stamped image and re-stamp.

Use a gel pen to fill in the missing areas. Fill in and outline random portions of the image to make it blend nicely.

Re-stamp the image onto a coordinating piece of paper and place over the original image.
Excess Adhesive

Use an adhesive eraser to gently rub the excess adhesive off.

Use a small amount of Un-Du on a Q-tip to remove the excessglue.

Scatter small embellishments over the spots to disguise them. Make sure to scatter the embellishments over the entire layout in order to blend it into the layout.
Scratches on Photographs

Lightly sand the surface of the photograph for a distressed look.

Place a sticker, rub-on, or embellishment over the scratch.

Scan the picture into your computer and then use a program such as Photoshop to remove the defect.
Soiled Photographs

Use a soft cotton cloth to gently wipe the surface of the photograph.

Use Un-Du adhesive remover on a soft cloth to gently wipe the surface of the photograph. I have personally had this remove permanent marker from a photo.

Gently clean the surface using the Un-Du PhotoCare Kit.
With a little creativity and ingenuity you are able to work with most scrapping mistakes easily. Now, your darling husband, he is another issue altogether. I am not sure I have any effective solutions for him.

Fabs Challenge

2009-06-07T16:01:00.002-04:00

This week Fabs great challenge was to use bling or borders. I used the HOTP Christmas instant card art and added some glitter and pearls. I hope this is enough bling for him :)

1st Annual 2 Sketches 4 You Ultimate Card Showdown

2009-06-06T14:18:00.008-04:00

I found this great blog and wanted to enter the 1st Annual 2 Sketches 4 You Ultimate Card Showdown- I just wish I would have found it before this afternoon. I decided to make something for DH and Fathers Day. I started with a concertina card- basically it's like an accordion. I am going to have my daughter and son take some pics and I will put them into the envelopes, along with some pics I take of them. I think he will love it.

Almost all of the materials (exccept the paper, ribbon, "skittles", punch and the DAD wood) can be bought at Paperwishes. I got the supplies from a drawing they had when they first opend their forum. The paper is called Hopscotch by K&company. The wooded DAD deco I got at Michaels and just painted it with sweet potato and evergreen.

I added flock on the front on the word LiFe. I also sewed around the edges and added loopy brads to secure the ribbon and hold the entire card closed. The entire card was very simple to make, just took a little time.

Here is the sketch- I used it on the front and also on the first large envelope.

This is the first small envelope on the inside cover. I just made a small ATC sized envelope and wrapped some SU ribbon on the front.

I used the same sketch located above on this envelope too. I used a Martha Stewart lace punch that I got from Mary and layered everything on the front. I added some tags and a gromlet and colored some "Skittles" with orange to match.

Here is the back side of the envelope. Again, I used loopy brads to secure the ribbon and close the envelope. The ribbon is from SU.

Here is the second large envelope. All I did on this was use a rub-on and added some glitter and buttons. One the back side, more loopy brads and ribbon.

The last envelope, secured onto the back page and closed tight with ribbon.

Card Sketch

2009-06-06T08:23:00.004-04:00

I am going to try my hand at some sketches and see how it goes.

Usually, I am the one that needs a sketch and I don't really draw them, but I will try something new.

So just what is the Sketch Challenge? It is simply an invitation to create a card using a particular sketch or layout.Everyone is invited to play along!

What is a challenge?

A challenge is simply an invitation to make a card! The “catch” is that your card must follow certain “rules”….the rules are outlined within each challenge. For example, in the Technique Lover’s Challenge, your card must use the particular technique that was posted. Each challenge is not a race to see who can make one first, nor it is a contest to see who makes the “best” card! It is really fun to see all the different ways stampers can make radically different cards that still fall within the parameters of the challenges. Challenges are a great way to actually get stampin', and often helps us grow and stretch beyond our normal stamping comfort zones.

What are the different weekly challenges?

Technique Lover’s: create a card using a particular technique

Color Combinations: create a card using certain colors (or similar colors).

Card Sketches: create a card that uses the posted layout.

Inspiration: create a card inspired by the posted inspiration piece.

How do I get started with playing along with the challenges?

Everyone is invited to play! Just read the challenge, create your card, upload to the gallery with the appropriate keyword(s), and post a link to the card in the comments below.

Can I do a challenge after another one has been posted?

You betcha! The challenges have no time limits...feel free to do a challenge at any time, and post a link to it in the appropriate challenge thread. It does NOT have to be done on the day it is posted, and you are not "late" if you chose to do it another time.

Birthday Card

2009-06-04T22:36:00.003-04:00

I did this one a long time ago. You can't really see the stitching on it, but I did use some gold thread. I have since got some thicker floss for these. I used stripes and dots paper.

For those of you asking, my son has his appointment scheduled for next Thursday June 11 and we should get the results back within 24 hours. He has been terribly sick the last couple days and has not ate a thing- when he does eat, it comes right back up. He doesn't have a temp, which I guess is good and he has been drinking a lot to keep him hydrated.

Cat Sympathy Card

2009-06-04T22:30:00.002-04:00

Dh got a call from someone at work who wanted a sympathy card for a co-worker because her cat died. I wasn't sure what to do and decided on some tulips and used my pet paper pack. I used a brown bow and inked the background with yellow and pink before piecing the tulips on it. After coloring I used my famous glaze over the top. I just can stay away from that stuff.

Sorry

2009-06-04T13:10:00.001-04:00

I'm sorry I haven't been posting. I have been pretty sick along with my little boy.
We took him for a check-up yesterday and they want to test him for Cistic Fybrosis. I'm sure he is fine, but the Dr. wants to be sure. I will try my best to get back on schedule.

Another Word Book

2009-06-02T14:58:00.006-04:00

My mom picked out the theme and nam (DREAM) and I used some paper that I have had for a long time and love. I found another wordbook online that looked almost exactly the same, but mine is 12 X 14" and different paper I think. I saw her wording and then added the white in the letters because I liked it so much, but believe it or not, I did this one before I saw hers. This one is not complete either. I still have the last few pages to get done...can you tell I get bored quickly with the larger projects?!?!

I used SCAL and my cricut for most of the images- I do not own the Tinkerbell cart so I had to improvise.

LOVE wordbook

2009-06-02T14:15:00.003-04:00

I am not even close to getting this done, but I wanted to post what I have so far. My son is about to wake up and I don't want to get involved with it more just to get interrupted, so I though I would just post it here for now and when it's done, I will post it again :-)

Bic Markers and coloring

2009-06-02T10:54:00.004-04:00

I really wanted to try watercoloring in a new way, but when I tried it, it was a mess. The colors I chose came out way tooo red, so I went to my trusty coloring techniques. I wanted to show how I organize my pens first. I put them colored coded and numbered in a box that was actually meant for beading, I just took out the extra pieces I didn't need. I numbered all of the pens and found that they still rubbed off so I renumbered them and put tape over the numbers. I marked all of the colors onto the same water color paper that I use when stamping so I knew they would be the same when I wanted to color my images. I found that the Bic markers work and blend a little better and they do not smell as bad!

The first thing I do is color the image with the lightest color I want on the bottom. Since I am going to paper piecing this, I am only concerned with the bear and it doesn't matter if I go outside the lines a little.

After it dries just a little, I go over the shadows with the same color, making them stand out a little. You can keep doing this until you get to the right shade. I just did one layer here.

Then I chose a different color to set it off even more- Orange! Do not wait for it to dry and color small circles over the top with the first original color to give it some blending. This will also make it so that there are not any harsh edges.

I did the vest the same way using Orange and red for the main part and yellow and orange for the pockets.

The last thing I do is add some dimmensional glaze. I used CTMH liquid glass for this one.

Quotes

2009-06-01T09:50:00.002-04:00

I have two books that I get most of my quotes, but often it is easier to just find a web site and print them in a word Doc.

Here are a few sites that have quotes:

The Quote Garden -
Famous Quotes and Quotations
Think Exist
Useful Information
Denny's Quotes and Poems -

Creating a hyperlink on your Challenge entries

2009-06-01T09:18:00.002-04:00

Below is a tutorial on how to create a Link to make it easy for everyone to quickly click to visit your blog page.

When you post your challenge entries in the comments section would you please add a direct link to your blog page to make it easier for people to just click on the link to visit you without the need to copy and paste into the address bar. This is quite a simple process (when you have got used to it) so here are some guidelines on how to do it.

1. First open up your blog page with the Challenge entry on the page and then at the top of the title bar you should see your own blog page starting with http:// etc etc.

2 .Highlight your address bar by right clicking and select copy from the drop down menu.

3. Until you are used to creating the link, it is best that you open up a word document and then carefully type in the exact line as below. Then remove the letters URL and in their place insert your blog address bar by pasting this into the line in between the inverted commas - make sure that you do not delete these - they are needed to make the link work. You may find it simpler then each week just to go back to where you saved this link and just copy and change the URL section to link in with the relevant page of your blog and then you are ready to copy and paste your link again on the comments page.
4. It is always worth previewing your entry on the comments page before you publish it just to make sure that it appears as a hyperlink so you know it will run properly - it should just show the words Here's my entry with no other detail.