In Touch

7 Gypsies Shadowbox Message Center

I am excited to share this little "Message Center" with you today! When the 7 Gypsies small Shadowbox was presented this past summer CHA it was love at first sight. I loved the examples that were created showcasing them with baby, wedding and family pictures.

It is as products arrive in the warehouse that the pieces of a little "puzzle" begin to formulate in my mind. First came the shadow boxes, then the burlap panels from Tim Holtz, next the Chalkstock paper and when brainstorming here at work with Julia E. she tossed out the idea of a "key holder" and this message center began to build in my mind. This is a fabulous little gift that is super easy to create and would make a lovely holiday gift for the season ahead!

It started with the stunning rub-on butterflies from 7 Gypsies. I'm a sucker for butterflies in the first place and the colors of these are so realistic and breathtaking I knew that these would be a must in this project.

An important element to note in regards to the Burlap Panels is that they are backed with a hard surface. Altering these is SO easy. I haven't tried drilling through the surface, but my guess is that it is a thin piece of composite wood, so this might be a possibility. Definitely something I need to test!

Another new to us product is this fabulous chalkboard paper. I stamped several Memory Box Distress Tags in Snow Cap pigment ink on the chalkboard paper surface and allowed them to fully dry.

Simply cut a "template" from copy paper using the die and align this template over the stamped distress tag using a pencil to locate and mark the center of each locater hole.

Position the die so that these pencil marks align perfectly in the locator holes and use tissue tape to hold the die in place. Cut.

Adding the rub-ons to your project is super easy. I find that cutting out the butterfly, separating it from the large sheet, makes application so much easier. I don't worry about partially rubbing on an adjacent butterfly this way. Position the rub-on and use your popsicle stick, or rub-on roller, to burnish the butterfly in to place. Remove the backing and you are left with a gorgeous embellished tag.

Soften the whiteness of the Snow Cap ink by applying some Tea Dye ink with the ink blending tool.

I have always been enamoured with butterfly species display cases and felt that encasing these beautiful rub-ons in glass would replicate the look. Burnish the butterfly to a 1 1/2" square piece of glass and sandwich it between a second piece of glass. Place a piece of Natural White cardstock behind this sandwich and position in a Memory Frame. Once the frame is closed, twist the jump ring at the top of the slide and it will easily snap off. Be certain to wear protective glasses just in case you end up with flying pieces.

To complete the look I wanted to mount my glass framed butterflies on burlap squares. I cut three little pieces of Craft-a-board to fit the openings on the Shadowbox and inked them with Vintage Photo Distress Ink so that the white color of the Craft-a-board would not show through the burlap.

Each burlap square is made up of two pieces of burlap sewn together. I cut one down in size, removing the threads that held the two pieces together. Wrap the Craft-a-board in the burlap and use Fabritac glue to adhere it in place.

It's these little touches that really make this project have texture and balance.

TIPS TO CREATING THE LAYOUT

When I get an idea I pull a LOT of stuff - LOL! I always lay things out on the base, positioning and aligning my components, before ever beginning to glue or alter them. I also find it helpful to snap a picture of the project in process. It is incredible to me how when looking at a photo of my projects, little balance issues come to the surface.

There is nothing wrong with the top project photo, but I felt it lacked balance when it came to the black - it was so strong in the upper left-hand corner. My solution was to snip a couple of little black pieces of paper to see if putting black behind the letters would create definition, balance and focus. I loved the way it looked, so then had the courage to alter my burlap panel.

Once again I used tissue tape to define the areas I would paint with black gesso. Tissue tape is fabulous because you can easily remove it without destroying your project.

Black Gesso is a product that is new to me and having a love for the texture gesso provides and the ease of coverage I decided to try it for the first time on this project.

LOVE IT! It easily covered the burlap panel in the areas I had defined. I simply squirted some on to the panel and using an old brush that had "tough" bristles spread the gesso in the defined area. The "tough" bristles leave texture marks in the gesso. I then removed the tissue tape, cleaned the brush of most of the gesso and dry brushed the edges to create a more "feathery" look.

Once the black gesso was dry I glued the Shadowbox to the Burlap Panel surface using Fabritac glue.

7 Gypsies has thought of THE most fabulous little components for these Shadowboxes! I adore all the little pieces that can be used to customize these fabulous trays. I used the Antique Silver Loops and Hooks Display Trim to hang this cute little calendar.

The calendar is the same calendar as I used in the Pocket Watch project. To create the smaller size all you need to do is change your print settings - shift the Orientation to Landscape, making certain to remove the automatic rotate and centering features - like magic you will easily change the size of this printable PDF to a smaller version of the same calendar.

One cannot have a message center without a place to put notes. I discovered that the 7 Gypsies Printers Tape and Collage Tape are very similar to tissue tape. So easy to apply and remove - PERFECT for putting notes on your noteboard. Now I just need some real tickets to put on this message board, but for now these adorable Gypsy tickets look oh, so cute!

To create the names for this message center I used Tim's Newsprint Alpha Parts and attached them to the back side of the Wooden Alphabet Tiles. I LOVE the added texture these provide and they were meant to be as they are THE perfect fit.

Now this is one cute little key display! The reality is that I doubt this would hold my big old key ring, BUT I love the idea of putting special keys on this display. I have to wonder if I applied these cute Display Trim Squarehooks with a strong adhesive if they would hold, but I didn't have time to test it out. As it is the hooks will definitely hold the keys to neighbors homes you pet sit, a key from the first home you owned or other sentimental keys.

Add a little Typewriter Charm to each key to define whose key it is or what makes it special. SO cute and fun!

Last was the "chalkboard." Yet again it was meant to be. The apothecary bottle easily holds a piece of chalk! I embellished the bottle with some Printers Tape and glued it to the corner so that it would not fall off. I then hung the chalkboard tags from another Display Trim Hook.

Thank you for sharing in my excitement of this simple little project! I hope that it inspires you to try your hand at these darling Shadowboxes, especially now that you can start small!

stamps: Memory Box Distressed Tag

ink: Snow Cap Adirondack Pigment Ink

paper: 7 Gypsies Conservatory 8x8 Paper Pad, Chalkstock 12 x 12, Neenah Natural White Classic Crest

accessories: 7 Gypsies Black Solo Shadowbox Tray, District Market Memoirs Burlap Panel, 7 Gypsies: Antique Silver Display Trim - Loops and Hooks, Squarehooks, and Keys, Butterfly Rubbings, Clear Apothecary Bottle, Train Tickets, Lille Book Dangles, Lille Paper Tape; Memory Box Distressed Tag Die, 1 1/2" Square Memory Glass and Black Patina Frames, 6"x6" Square Burlap Shape, Studio Black Gesso

Art Parts Pocket Watch Calendar

This month we are making another trip into the warehouse to explore "parts" unknown - Art Parts! Yet another FUN, FUN adventure I tell you! Art Parts make fabulous home decor and gift items!

I like to create art elements that can be purposeful and the idea to use the pocket watch as a calendar holder made me grin from ear to ear. So here we go with my explorations.

 

Wendy Vecchi's style is classic, earthy and oh so elegant. The books she has written step out each project in detail. Before beginning I did my best to study a couple of her books and projects to see the many different ways that this product can be utilized. All I can say is WOW - SO MUCH FUN!

I decided to try and create something in a shabby chic, and very feminine style, to showcase the versatility of the Art Parts.

When you open your Art Parts the very first thing you are going to want to do is take a paper towel or old, soft cloth and wipe down the edges of the Art Parts. Art Parts are a paper product that is lasercut and so a light dust is left behind. You will want to "clean" them up by quickly wiping the edges, so as to not dirty your project.

ART PARTS + DISTRESS STAIN

Picket Fence Distress Stain - white magic in a bottle - ha, ha! Due to the light, feminine look I wanted to create I decided to experiment with this new-to-me product. I could have painted or dabbered my Art Part, but wanted to play with the Picket Fence Distress Stain. One quick swipe of the hand and a quick dry with a Heat It tool and the Art Part was much lighter. 

Adding a second swipe made me a very happy girl. Distress Stain goes on oh so quickly and takes very little work. I also dabbed some on my non-stick craft sheet and used a paint brush to lighten the areas between the fingers.

At this point I could have easily added any color Distress Stain for a more pastel looking glove, but I wanted it to look lacy.

To complete the "lace-gloved" hand I inked the lacy textured background stamp with Vintage Photo Distress Ink and stamped directly on the dry surface. Then using the ink blending tool and Antique Linen I aged the edges of the glove.

ART PARTS + EMBOSSING POWDER

 

This is an idea that came charging into my brain after my project was completely finished and I just had to run back to my studio to try it. White satin gloves are synonymous with old elegance... the idea - pearl embossing powder = beautiful satin gloves!

I began with a Picket Fence stained Art Part and inked the surface with Distress Embossing ink. I then covered it with Pearl UTEE (we are hoping more is on it's way to our shop with today's shipping notification :-D)

Using the Heat It tool melt the first layer of UTEE. As you can see the image is still slightly pitted. When utilizing UTEE you can achieve different looks dependent upon how long you heat the powder. As you continue to heat the surface it becomes smoother. To achieve a nice thick layer you simply ink again with Distress Embossing ink apply more UTEE and heat again.

I wanted to keep experimenting to see if I could now turn my satin glove into an amazingly textured glove.

SO... I applied a third layer. It is now important to work quickly!  

 

Before heating and melting the UTEE for the third time ink your image with Distress Embossing ink. This helps to release the stamp once you press it into the hot UTEE. You could also utilize a colored ink if you want a higher contrast. Immediately upon shutting off your Heat It tool press the stamp image into the liquid surface and hold in place for several seconds until the UTEE cools slightly and sets.
 

Simply GORGEOUS! I was pleased to see that the Art Part held up nicely to all this heat. No curling, bending or discoloring = happy Ellen!

ART PARTS + PEARL DABBER + ALCOHOL INK

 

To create this metallic look I utilized a technique I learned at Ranger U. I can't live without my Pearl and Snow Cap paint dabbers since then - LOL! Dab the entire Pocket Watch surface with the Pearl paint dabber and allow to dry.

Apply some Blending Solution, one drop Gold Metallic Mixatif, 1 drop Y21 Various Ink Refill and 5 drops E34 Various Ink Refill to the felt piece on the Alcohol Ink applicator.

Dab this over the Pearlized surface for the most exquisite look! Yes, I am working on the back side of my finished project because I was so excited I forgot to take pictures to share with you along the way. I'm going to blame it on the fact that I had the most beautiful guest sitting with me gabbing during this process - LOL! (Luv ya Judy! ;-D)

This is where the fun continues! Not only can you alter the pearl finish with the alcohol ink, but you can alter the lovely metal pieces you may want to use on your project. The silver finish of the small ring binder and bead chain were screaming at me. I simply dabbed the ring binder surface with the alcohol ink and then removed the felt from the applicator and applied the alcohol to the beaded surface as well. Magic I tell you - aging these really helped soften the overall look. 

 

I know that I should be wrapping up this article, but I just couldn't "resist" sharing this last bit. Initially I intended to utilize some of Tim's Kraft resist paper, but I just couldn't help myself with this lovely image of Wendy's. I am SUCH a sucker for beautiful vintage fabric stamps - LOL!

Ink the image with Distress Embossing ink and then apply clear embossing powder. Heat set.

I am absolutely LOVING my Picket Fence Distress Stain! Swipe it across the surface of your paper. Allow to dry.

Then swipe a colored Distress Stain - I used Tumbled Glass here. You will end up with an absolutely lovely, chalky pastel piece of paper goodness!

 

Curiosity led me to heat the paper once again. Double click on the image above for it to pop open larger on your screen. It almost appears like little rain drops as the embossing powder pops back through the surface when you reheat the paper at this point.

Couldn't stop myself yet though. I spritzed water into the palm of my hand and then flicked it onto the paper surface and observed as beautiful white spots appeared through the shimmery blue puddles. Oh my!! -- so lovely and vintage!!

 

Being one who has a hard time "figuring out" how to get things to actually work I thought I would share with you how I rigged my project to put it together.

I set my ring binder atop the Pocket Watch and marked the spots where I would need to insert the brads. Then using a Crop-a-Dile I punched through the Art Parts surface just like it was butter. Attach the ring binder to the face using the brads provided.

I then used Matte Multi Medium to adhere my resist paper to the Pocket Watch Back and applied a generous amount of Matte Multi Medium to the Pocket Watch Face, especially around the inner edges. By pressing it together tightly and clipping it in place as shown, the excess Matte Multi Medium squeezed out and I placed the Bead Chain around the inner ring. This is an idea I saw in one of Wendy's projects and I absolutely adored it! Thank you Wendy!

Set aside and allow to dry.

 

One last tip for you using those clips I have always adored. To ensure that I have my holes punched in the same place on all calendar pages simply hold them together with a clip and use the Crop-a-Dile to punch through all the pages at once!

 

Lots of little details - a little "reminder" string tied around the finger (this is a calendar you know and a calendar is all about reminding us of special dates), Melissa Frances and Prima Resin pieces, a Tattered flower cut out of Romantique Paper, a Vintage Accoutrement button, Silhouette Push Pin, silk ribbon, Organza trim flowers and THE perfect sentiment for any calendar.

I already know it --- I didn't order nearly enough Art Parts!!! Yes, I have done the mad scramble to get more Art Parts into the store ASAP, so be certain to keep checking back if the item you want is currently showing out of stock --- more are on their way!

It's time ladies --- it is time to start creating those special gifts for the holiday season ahead and I know that a calendar is ALWAYS well received. Use the fabulous masculine pieces Wendy has created for the men in your life... it's a wonderful way to show them that you care. Most of all I once again urge you to jump outside your comfort zone and simply explore, create and have fun!!!
 

calendar - Ellen Hutson LLC 2012 Calendar - Digital Download (sized to fit Ring Binders)

stamps: Studio 490 Sentimental Art

ink: Distress Embossing Ink, Distress Ink Pads - Vintage Photo and Antique Linen, Distress Stains - Picket Fence and Tumbled Glass, Archival Jet Black, Copic Various Ink Refills - E34, Y21 and Blending Solution

paper: Prima Romantique 6x6 Paper Pad, Hero Arts Kraft Paper

accessories: Art Parts - Timely Pocket Watches and Mustaches, Men & More; Pearl Paint Dabber, Tim Holtz Small Ring Binder, Bead Chain, Accoutrements Button, Alcohol Ink Applicator, Gold Metallic Mixative, Tattered Floral Dies; Studio Line Matte Multi-Medium, Glue Dots - Pop Up and Micro; Melissa Frances Applique Scroll, Resin Window Frame, Webster's Pages Cameo Push Pins, Rose Silk Ribbon, Red Small Organza Roses

The Many Ways To Use Sizzix Jewelry Dies

Sizzix Original Jewelry Dies are so versatile! You can use them together with your papercrafting supplies to create jewelry and embellishments to use on your cardfronts or scrapbook pages --- there are so many possibilities!!!

 

The Original Medium Dies are thick steel-rule construction dies, similar to the Tim Holtz dies in depth, but measuring approximately 2 3/4" x 4 1/2" in size. These dies are designed to cut through chipboard, grungeboard, Clearly for Art and plastic materials, fun foam, fabric magnet, vellum, sandpaper, metallic foils, Shimmer Sheetz and more. 

 

Today I wanted to share how you can create metallic-look jewelry by simply using Inkssentials Foil together with Craft-a-Board. Remove the backing from the Inkssentials Foil and apply to both sides (front and back) of a piece of Craft-a-Board that is cut to the same size.

 

Cut out the jewelry pieces by sending this through your die cut machine. I adore my Vagabond as there is no cranking necessary, but the Big Shot & Cuttlebug work great as well ;-D

 

Craft-a-Board is the perfect choice for use with embossing folders. It is thick enough to be sturdy and hold it's shape and yet thin enough that the impression from embossing folders is incredible!

At this point you could alter the color of the foil with alcohol inks, but that is another lesson for the near future :-D

Tim's new drill press is perfect for adding a teeny, tiny hole in which to place jump rings in the earring drop. Again, the Craft-a-Board shape is sturdy enough to create these awesome earrings and yet is SO lightweight that you will not even notice these earrings when you wear them.

Art Parts, Clearly for Art Blackout is another product that works WONDERFULLY with these dies.

TIP: Use the Concave Round Nose Pliers and 24 gauge wire to help you create perfectly shaped loops, allowing you to customize the predesigned bead lengths we carry.

 

The necklace was created using an altered Vintage Groove Silk and Shell Combo Strand. By simply snipping the thread that holds the shells together I was easily able to create two custom lengths of beads. It was fun to create a fashionable assymetrical piece by adding a Maya Road Golden Yellow Ruffle Blossom to one side.

The earrings were embellished with Jenni Bowlin Pearl Charms.

Vintage Inspired Netting was sandwiched between two coordinating patterns from the Out of Print paper pad. Using a small bow created from the ribbon we send in our thank you notes I then hung the focal point jewelry piece like a piece of wall art. This piece could then be removed and turned into a pendant piece as well.

I hope this inspires you to continue to meld your jewelry making supplies together with your papercrafting goodies! To be able to create wearable gifts is so much fun!!!

 

paper: Craft-a-Board, Basic Grey 6x6 Out of Print Paper Pad, Memory Box Squash Notecard

accessories: Sizzix Originals Dies: Frame & Pendant #2 and Oval Frame, Bird & Pendant; Inkssentials Metal Foil Tape, Clearly for Art Blackout, Vintage Groove: Silk and Shell Strand Combo, Earring Wires, Silver Clasps and Jump Rings; Webster's Pages Vintage Inspired Netting, Maya Road Golden Yellow Ruffle Blossom, 24 Gauge Beading Wire, Concave Round Nose Pliers

Shimmer Sheetz Magic - Techniques, Techniques and more Techniques!

What are Shimmer Sheetz? It is a question that has come up multiple times since Love is in the Air Tag #1 - Shimmer Sheetz Texture was posted. Shimmer Sheetz are new to me even though they have been around for a long time! The creator, Judi Kauffman, teamed up with Els to teach me some of the possibilities at Winter CHA. Believe me when I tell you that there are a ton of possibilities with this product - once again I think I am only limited by ability to think outside the box and my own creativity!

Today I will attempt to answer the question - "What are Shimmer Sheetz?" Shimmer Sheetz are mylar sheets that are highly alterable and are excellent for card making, scrapbooking, mixed media, collage, clothing and accessories, party decorations, outdoor decorations (they will stand up to the rain), flower arrangements and so much more.

 

There are two varieties of Shimmer Sheetz - iridescent and metallic mylar. With three (3) 5"x12" sheets per pack and 13 different colors available you can create a lot of different types of projects. They are about the weight of medium weight card stock, so most punches will punch through this medium quite easily.

 

These sheets are acid-free and are garment quality, which means they are both color fast and washable. Shimmer Sheetz are compatible with embossing folders, standard dies, low-profile dies, punches, and electronic cutting machines. You can use them together with peel-off stickers, Be Creative (Sookwang) tape, glitter, embossing powders, paints, markers and inks that work on non-porous surfaces (such as Alcohol Inks, Sakura Glaze Pens, Metallic pens and more.)

 

There are so many different ways to alter the surface of the Shimmer Sheetz and today I hope to share just a few examples. Following are four projects I created yesterday to share just a few of the possibilities. 

 

As you will see I have tried to share (probably) too many techniques in this one short post - LOL! I will do my best to revisit these ideas in the weeks and months to come so that I can answer any additional questions that might arise. Feel free to leave a question in the comments section and I will do my best to answer those questions.

 

Lately it feels like life has been a bit of a circus (can you sense I try to fit WAY too many things into a single day), so I decided that Le Cirque would be the collection that would fit my life perfectly - LOL!

 

My first experiment started with an Iridescent Yellow Shimmer Sheet. I began by stamping this Jacobean style Hero Arts stamp on the mylar using Noir Palette Ink. Once again I would like to share that Palette ink is by far my favorite ink for stamping on non-porous surfaces. Being the ever impatient stamper I used my Heat It tool to make certain the ink was set.

This turned into my first experiment. As you heat the Shimmer Sheet the surface changes - you will notice the sheen turn more satiny and the mylar will curl ever so slightly. I LOVE the way this looks and was thrilled to pull back some of the shine.

I then colored in my image. I did stay within the lines because the Copic marker can muddy with the Palette Ink if you are not careful, but I had no problem when I colored within the lines.

 

Using the gorgeous Jacobean style print in the Le Cirque collection as my color guide I selected my Copic colors. I then fussy cut out my flower.

The final step was to use Adirondack Butterscotch Embossing powder to add a sentiment. I must admit that I am totally in "like" with the Adirondack embossing powders - the colors are fabulous and I have had so much fun experimenting with them! It is funny to me how many of what I consider the "old" techniques are still some of my favorites!

To help define the sentiment I used my .03 Copic Multiliner on all the sentiment edges when they crossed over a butterscotch polka dot.

 

Next I returned to the example I shared in Tag #1, only this time I tried it with a twist. Please refer back to the instructions in Tag #1 for additional information on how to brayer the surfaces together. I knew this post would be lengthy and so I am trying not to repeat too many of the steps.

So here is the twist... When I completed the project for Tag #1 I used the Shimmer Sheet in it's original color. For this project I felt that the color of the Shimmer Sheet wasn't deep enough and so I began to alter it.

First I ran the sheet through my embossing folder, I then used my Alcohol Ink applicator to add Copic YR24 Various Ink to my sheet by dabbing it with my applicator. You can see the difference from the original sheet by comparing the top and the bottom in the photo above.

 

It still didn't "sing" enough for my liking and so I added R29 to my applicator and dabbed the entire surface achieving the finish above.

 
I then used my brayer to transfer the raised surface to my tape background (see Tag #1 post)

 

Add dark gold microfine glitter to the remaining sticky surface, brush off excess and burnish.

 

Absolutely DELICIOUS with the Le Cirque papers and the perfect accompaniement to the sweet tag!

 

This next tag was created from the opposite side of that same Shimmer Sheet! Yes, this product goes a LONG way if you consider all the different ways to use just one little piece. Keep using it until ever scrap is incorporated into your projects!

 

Once again I transferred my raised mylar to a sticky piece of cardstock using the brayer as shared in Tag #1. Do you remember when I shared in that post that tone-on-tone would have a fabulous look? Well since that time other ideas dawned on me --- if I could use glitter, why not try embossing powder, or flock, or?!?

 

So that is exactly what I did. Using the Butterscotch embossing powder, I poured it over the exposed sticky surface. As you can see it adhered beautifully. The fabulous thing about Be Creative (Sookwang) tape is that you can heat it without any problems whatsoever.
 

As you can see the embossing powder was heat set and the mixture of the textures is fabulous!

 

One last little step that I wanted to share is the altering of the gorgeous 7 Gypsies paper tape - it just felt too white and so I placed a strip on my non-stick craft sheet and swiped my alcohol ink filled applicator the length of the tape. Voila - it coordinates perfectly!

It is important to note that the metallic sheets will not transfer to sticky tape surfaces!

So what do you do with the metallic sheets?

I decided to try stamping an image and embossing it on the Metallic Gold.

 

You will notice in the completed project above that I have also shared how you can punch these mylar Shimmer Sheetz with your hand-held punches! To complete the look of this project I used a fairly complicated and deep Martha Stewart punch, just to be certain it would work. It took a little strength to punch it, but the results were perfect.

 

Using the Clear Design vintage bicycle from Hero Arts I stamped it on the metallic surface using Distress Embossing ink. Remember this surface is really "slick." I must admit that it took me three attempts before finally making certain I didn't move when I stamped it - too much coffee is what I'm going to blame it on - LOL! Each time I would diligently clean my surface before trying it again.

After applying my embossing powder I did use a brush to remove the excess powder that I had in a couple of spots. Heat until the powder melts and becomes glossy. Make certain you leave your mylar on your work surface as you heat it, because it becomes quite warm. Once again I loved how the mylar surface turned satiny and the edges curled ever so slightly as I heated it. Needless to say I punched out several flowers and began heating them and curling the petals with what could be gorgeous results. I didn't have the time to complete more projects and so you will either just have to try it or wait for me to get to doing another post :-D

I absolutely love the look and feel of this finished project! It is hard to create Masculine projects and I think this really fits the bill.

Just a couple more tips on how to use the metallic sheets. The sheet on the right is the gold metallic unaltered. The sheet on the left is one that has been embossed and then alcohol ink applied.

 

You can leave it unaltered or you can grab a Shrink Plastic sanding block and lightly sand the surface for a completely different look.

SO MANY options, so little time - LOL! I hope that I have been able to help you better understand what Shimmer Sheetz are and how you might be able to work with them! If you already own Be Creative Tape, microfine glitter and embossing powder I think that you will most definitely want to try adding this to your group of basic supplies!

We carry all 13 colors of Shimmer Sheetz in our store in our Alterable Items: Plastics category (just scroll down to the bottom of the page.) Remember Iridescent Sheets work wonderfully with the brayer and transfer techniques and the metallic ones look very much like metal foil, without being metal. 

Thank you for joining us once again as we try our best to stay "in touch" each month!
 

stamps: Hero Arts ClearDesign Exotic Decor, ClearDesign Joy Ride, ClearDesign Made with Love

ink: Palette Noir, Distress Embossing Ink, Copic Various Ink Refills - YR24, R29

paper: Graphic 45 Le Cirque 8x8 Paper Pad and Tags, Memory Box Red Pepper and Squash, Hero Arts Azure

accessories: Shimmer Sheetz - Iridescent Yellow, Metallic Gold, Dark Gold Microfine Glitter Ritz, Butterscotch Embossing Powder, Detail Black Embossing Powder, Martha Stewart Happy Birthday Punch, Tim Holtz Alcohol Ink Applicator, Foliage, Washers,  Metal Corners, Mini Paper Clip, Sprocket Gears, Tiny Attacher; 7 Gypsies Sapphire Dangle, Antique Brass Reinforcer, Lille Paper Tape, Antique Gold Silk Ribbon, Black Twill, Basic Grey Glazed Brads

Back to School & Cutting Basics by Julia Stainton

For some school has already started and for others, we have another few wonderful weeks of summer.This time of year brings busy shopping trips, nervous and excited children, a fresh start, a return to routine and the last beautiful days of summer. I have always enjoyed getting ready for back to school as a child and as a mother. There's something about fresh new books and pencils, sneakers and art supplies.

Lately I been creating a few fun back to school projects that you can use now or throughout the year. They are great for kids to take to school, or give to your favorite teacher. I hope you'll get inspired to create a basic bound notebook, thank you card, fridge magnet and glittered pen.

While the kids are going back to school, the instructor in me is coming out and I'll be sharing some very basic cutting tips throughout this newsletter. I was thrilled to have the opportunity to recently help out a scrapbooking event and did a lot of helping out with the paper trimmer. I know this may be basic for some but for those just starting out in paper crafting, the proper cutting techniques will make your project much more professional looking.

Everyone can always use a personalized notebook whether you create this for your child or his teacher or even for yourself. This is a super simple project and it's a great place to start with cutting basics. When paper crafting your projects will only be as good as your tools. Dull blades and uneven cuts really tell on a design and a poor paper trimmer can make the best designer frustrated. I love using a guillotine style paper trimmer for the cleanest cuts.

The Tonic Paper Trimmer is my go to tool and I've been thrilled with the initial investment. The blade sharpens itself with each cut saving me money in not having to purchase replacement blades and it always gives clean precise cuts.

Whether you use this paper trimmer or any other, the first thing you should note is to place your paper squarely at the top edge when cutting. This will prevent the paper from shifting and get you a perfect 90­­° angled cut. I know this is something that most know but I bring it up as there are crafters who have never been taught this. Essential.

Make sure you press down on the safety bar to prevent shifting.

On any paper trimmer you will find a ruler or grid to help you measure your paper for cutting. I like to cut in precise measurements as it makes matting and layering easier and reduces waste. When cutting small strips of paper you can cut down to one inch. The smaller you trim the more difficult it may be to keep the paper from shifting.
 
 

When cutting small strips I like to use a little math and cut in the reverse. If the paper is 12x12 inches and I want a 1 inch strip I place the edge of the paper at 11 inches to get a perfect one inch strip with no shifting.

One of the things I like best about the Tonic Paper Trimmer is it's ability to cut through more than just patterned paper and cardstock. Craft-a-Board and chipboard as well transparencies and specialty paper cut perfectly and easily. For the altered notebook project I've created it by cutting two pieces of Craft-a-Board to 4 x 6 inches in size. After covering the covers with patterned paper and adding white cardstock for writing on, the notebook was bound with the Bind it All.

 

Another of my favorite cutting tools is the Tonic Non-Stick Scissors. I love how easily they cut paper, ribbon and transparencies as well as many other products and the non-stick coating is wonderful for not gumming up with adhesive. These scissors are also amazing for cutting out unmounted rubber stamps.Here I've used them to trim the paper from around the chipboard.

 

Any additional paper that was too tight to trim off is easily sanded away with the Basic Grey Precision File Set.

 

Supplies: Craft-a-Board, Bind it All by Zutter, Oliver Paper pack by Basic Grey, Buck Naked Alpha Buttons by Cosmo Cricket, Tim Holtz Hinge Clip and Ruler Ribbon by Advantus, Farmer's Market Twine

You can never have too many thank you notes and this one can be used for anyone but I like to think it's particularly suitable for a teacher. There are so many office supply products out there and they all look great on school themed designs.

When creating you may often find that your layers are not 100% lining up. Even a millimeter off will look less than wonderful. The Tonic Paper Trimmer is fabulous for trimming off those tiny increments of paper that a sliding blade trimmer would make a mess of.

 

See how tiny a strip I was able to trim off to get a perfectly clean edge?

For my sentiment on this card I used the Basic Grey stickers that are included in the Oliver Paper Pack. Giving the first letter a bit of pizazz is easy by matting it with black cardstock to make it stand out. The EK Success Titanium Blade Scissors are another favorite of mine and they are great for precision cutting. I keep these scissors just for paper as I want to maintain their fine cutting abilities.

 

Here's the T after it has been cut out. These scissors are also fabulous for paper piecing and other fine detail work.
 

To highlight the remaining letters I traced them with a 0.3 Copic Multiliner pen.

 

Supplies: Oliver paper pack by Basic Grey, black cardstock, Copic Multiliner,  Tiny Attacher & Mini Paper Clips by Advantus, Kraft Library Cards by Maya Road, Binding Edge Punch by EK Success, Basics Kraft Small Details by Basic Grey

With back to school comes the never ending cycle of papers and notes and things to keep a track of. This sweet little Inchie+ is a magnet that will attach to your fridge and keep those notes under control. If you have a large family, create these with your kids and personalize them with their names.

To create this magnet simply stamp the Inchie+ and then embellish as desired. The hinge clip is attached with a brad and a Basic Grey magnet adheres to the back.

Supplies: Inchie+ Squares, Tiny Type by Cosmo Cricket, Cling Ledger Stamp by Hero Arts, Game Spinner,  Tiny Attacher & Hinge Clip by Advantus, Crop-a-dile by We R Memory Keepers, magnet, Sepia Archival Ink and Tumbled Glass Distress Ink by Ranger, Large Magnetic Snap by Basic Grey

Finally with the myriad of pens and pencils at school make yours stand out and keep it from wandering off. I think I'll be making more of these as I'd like one for my purse, my daughter has claimed this one and I'd like to give a couple out as teacher's gifts. This pen is an altered Copic Multiliner and if you've never used them for writing, you're missing out.

The Tonic Paper Trimmer easily cuts this sheet of Wonder Tape. I used 1.5 x 3.5" for the barrel and 1.5 x 1" for the cap. The clip on the cap is removable and can be reattached after altering.

 

After peeling off one of the adhesive papers, roll around barrel of the pen. Apply glitter as with the Burnished Velvet technique that you can find here in last month's In Touch Newsletter.

I've used  the beautiful Peacock Blue and Regal Red glitters by Glitter Ritz for this project.

Have fun getting ready for back to school and I hope you've had a little fun yourself, learning with this tutorial today. Thanks for stopping by and happy creating!

ScrapHD + Ellen Hutson LLC = endless creative possibilities

Hybrid Design - it is a combination of words that we are hearing more and more frequently. When you look up the word "hybrid" in a thesaurus you will find the following words - cross, mixture, mix and fusion. The dictionary will provide the following definition: an object that is composed of or derived from the elements and components of two different sources.

In the world of paper crafting and scrapbooking, hybrid design simply means the mixing of digital or computerized elements (which are two-dimensional) with the tactile, three-dimensional products we already know and love. Many of us have been working in this genre without even realizing it. As we print off words, journaling, or photos to mix with our paper craft projects, we are creating a hybrid design.

My interest in hybrid design stems from the realization that I would love to bring a product to our store that young and old crafters alike can utilize and enjoy. I realized that the younger generation (aka my teen daughter) communicates and lives with an electronic gizmo in hand at almost all times. The computer is a mainstay in her life. It is my desire to share the joy of getting one's hands dirty with her generation, and at the same time help share with my generation (yes, I hate to admit that I am getting older, but I am :D) that this whole "electronic/digital thing" is actually a benefit to us as well. I realized that it is important for me to go with the flow and embrace the changes around me, rather than be afraid of technology as it advances. We can learn to create using a combination of the digital and traditional methods of paper crafting and it isn't that hard!

When I look for something new like this, I consider the ease of learning, as well as the value. Is this something that makes sense financially, as well as creatively? It was a thrill to discover ScrapHD. The value of this program and the services they provide, along with the simplicity of use, have me extremely excited about the possibilities. Today I want to share my thoughts with you regarding our relationship with ScrapHD. For a more in-depth look at those FAQ's please join me in my post ScrapHD FAQ's.

We have signed up with ScrapHD to bring the digital designs of 14 top manufacturers to you. Following are a listing of the companies that are currently providing content for ScrapHD:

This program is in its infancy, so I cannot even begin to fathom what it will be like as they continue to enhance and develop it further. Currently there are thousands of papers and elements to select from, and the commitment to adding more is unprecedented.

ScrapHD is not designed to take the place of Adobe Photoshop, Photoshop Elements or some of the other more intensive programs on the market. Rather it is designed for ease of use and affordability.

In an effort to make certain that you understand the program before you get involved ScrapHD is providing two different levels of membership. The first level is a "FREE membership." Included in this program are some absolutely wonderful free papers, layouts and elements so that you can "try before you buy." When you sign up initially this is the type of membership that I would recommend you try. This will allow you to upload a few photos and use any of the elements that have a white border or frame around them. You will be able to create and share your layouts on the ScrapHD site as well as on Facebook, Twitter or your blogs. It is a fantastic way to try out the program! You will also be able to order your layouts and books on-line using this free version.

The second level is what is called the "club membership." For $9.99/month (or $99.99/year) you will be provided with an endless assortment of digital papers, elements, accessories, and design layouts to use in your creative process. I have to admit that this is the level that excited me because I can then print from my own printer! I had to have it - LOL! It is this level that I used to create my samples for this post. With this level I can use ALL of the elements shown on the ScrapHD site, as well as upload more of my own photos and digital elements to my ScrapHD gallery.

There is a community forming to help answer your questions and provide you with fun challenges and contests, as well as a place to share ideas. With each new month there will be new additions to the lines, new layouts to try and new contests to enter.

Tutorials have been created that will show you how to use the site, how to create a scrapbook layout and so much more. All these, alongwith educational webinars to teach you how to use the program are provided by ScrapHD, but we here at Ellen Hutson, LLC are going to do our best to join in the educational process and inspire you as well! We are determined to add value to the program that ScrapHD is offering by adding our own education and specials to the mix.

The process for signing up is simple. All you need to do is click on this link and it will take you to our scrapbook builder. Select a nickname or user name, enter your email address and a password and you are on your way to your free membership.

ScrapHD Hybrid Projects

Today I would like to share the hybrid projects I was able to create in just a short time frame before I headed off for Ranger U. I will not be sharing step-by-step directions in this article, but rather will continue to share those over the next few days so that I don't overwhelm you. I want to be certain to make each projects directions easy to understand and to replicate. Today's lesson will be more about how it is that these creations are hybrid designs, with just a handful of ideas that I hope will share my excitement with all of you.

This whole "scrapbooking" element kind of freaks me out - LOL! I never seem to have time to complete large projects and so I started with something simple --- a card.

The papers and elements in this program are an AMAZING value! I have boatloads of papers and yet so many times I go to create a project and I can't find the right element. Or I want to create more than just a couple of one project, but only have enough of one particular paper to create just one or two. What ScrapHD brings is an enormous assortment to select from and print at a moment's notice. Some of my absolute all-time favorites are in their collection and that collection is constantly growing.

I wanted to start simply. Nothing too elaborate or scary was in order! So I headed in to the site and started viewing the collections. One of the first collections I spotted was the lovely Jenni Bowlin papers. It was in a split-second that I realized that not only could I print on paper, but I could also print on transparencies! (We have added these transparencies to our store because they are a specialized variety that can be used in your printers - in this case I used my color ink-jet printer and so I used this transparency.)

In the image below you will see how I printed one of the Jenni Bowlin papers on a transparency and combined it with some mini papers and the crepe ribbon we carry in our store.

Complete details for this project can be found here on our Simple Dreams blog.

I also found some beautiful black and white line drawings!!! Printing these images on to the transparency and coloring with Copic markers made me feel like such an artist - LOL!

Combining these beautiful images with some Webster's Pages paper, ribbons, buttons and all those wonderful 3-D elements I so love, makes this a hybrid design.

Not only can I use the treasures I uncovered in ScrapHD to create cards, but I can also create dimensional pieces such as this elegant "jewelry box" from a simple memory box.

 
Once again I printed one of the images on a transparency and painted the back to bring it to life.

Adding "foundations", pearls, ribbon and paper I quickly created a beautiful little hybrid gift box.

I have very little experience creating scrapbook pages, BUT I thought if I can't tackle that "fear" then I most certainly can't expect others too. What I found was an immense amount of joy as I created these next couple of pages! The happy memories that flooded over me as I worked were unexpected. What fun I had!!!

I thought I would begin with an 8"x8" scrapbook page, so that I could share the difference between a digital scrapbook page and a hybrid scrapbook page. In this first set of photos you will see how I used both papers and accessoreis to complete my pages. Using a combination of Teresa Collins, Jenni Bowlin, and Danielle Young papers, together with some beautiful digital embellishments, I was able to create my pages.

It is simple to then take these pages and make them public. I embedded the link here into my blog post. I could also share this layout on Facebook or Twitter, or I could invite special friends or family members to view the pages that I created.

As a club member of ScrapHD I can also print from home. This service is one that I know that I will utilize a LOT :D It is this option that I used for the projects I created today. ScrapHD has done their research. We are carrying their photo papers in our store. The beautiful matte finish and heavier than normal weight photo paper (12x12 and 8x8) make it an ideal surface on which to print your photos and add the hybrid elements.

I did not have any of this beautiful paper when I created my pages. So instead to make these digital pages into hybrid designs I simply eliminated some of the embellishments from the design and printed my 8"x8" scrapbook page on an 8 1/2" x 11" piece of Neenah Cardstock. I then went about adding the 3-dimensional embellishments we carry in our store. 

 
I pierced the stitching and added some pearls, flowers and buttons to give the pages additional dimension and texture.

I look at these pages sitting here on my desk and grin from ear to ear remembering those moments when Trina was two. I can hardly wait to create additional pages from that photo session and turn it into a coffee table book for our family to enjoy!

Creating scrapbooks might not be your cup of tea, but perhaps you have special photos that you would like to use as wall art. It has been six years since we took our trip to the big island of Hawaii. I just couldn't help but giggle and have the girls pose for this picture --- they have always been little beach bums, loving the water and sand!

 

To construct this page I once again created the basic layout in ScrapHD. I wanted to share how when creating using a hybrid format you can pick elements that don't actually "coordinate" with your project.

For example I loved the idea of pointing the title arrow at my little "beach bums," but knew that the color of the digital arrow I selected was not quite right. It didn't matter, because I knew I could change up the color with Studio Paints. I printed my layout on Sticky Back Canvas and then painted, stitched, and embellished my way to this little framed art piece.

 

As I stated earlier I will be sharing the details and steps for each of these items in the days to come. I know that each of you only has a portion of the day to spend here with me and I have already consumed a large portion of it - LOL! So I will close for now.

I believe in the value of this program and so my reason for introducing you to it. I believe in what this program will bring to all generations, young and old alike. It is time that I share with and encourage my children to create albums of their own using the digital pictures that are meaningful to them. It is past time that they have something tangible in their hands to enjoy :D

What I would like to do is to encourage you to think about the possibilities! Click through this link and sign up for an account together with us... see what it is that is offered on the ScrapHD site and join us in some creative fun! We'll tackle this hybrid thing together and add just one more tool to our arsenal of goodies that makes it easier to create at a moments notice.

  

Copic Airbrushing by Sharon Harnist

This article will give you some basic tips for airbrushing with Copic markers and a little more detail about hooking up and using an air compressor, for an unlimited supply of air for your airbrushing needs!

Things you can airbrush:
Buttons, canvas, chipboard, Craft-a-Board, Clear Plastic, Dew Drops, fabric, hair, paper or silk flowers, lace, metal, paper, ribbon, wood . . . well you get the idea -- just about anything!!  I'll show you a few of these items that were airbrushed in my project below.

Airbrush System Sets:

1. ABS-1 (air can connected): Air Grip, Air Adaptor, Aircan Hose, Air Can 80, Air Can Holder - Everything you need to get started airbrushing with canned air.  The Air Grip , Air Adaptor & Aircan Hose can be used with an air compressor.
2. ABS-2 (air can direct-connected set): Air Grip, Air Can D60 - The D60 can of air has a built-in regulator.  Once you've used this can of air, the ENTIRE system can not be used again (Ellen usually doesn't stock this option).
3. ABS-3 (air compressor connect set): Air Grip, Air Adaptor - Required to use with either the Sparmax AC-101 Windstorm Airbrush Compressor or Sparmax AC-100 Airbrush Compressor Ellen carries (or suitable aircompressor you may have).

Airbrushing Hints:
1. The Copic airbrush system is made for Sketch markers and Copic Original (square) barrel markers only.
2. Make sure the "tallest" part of the Copic marker chisel tip is on top (slanting downward) and the oval Sketch marker barrel is vertical, when inserting into the air grip:

 

3. If you aren't getting a good spray (or none at all), make sure marker is inserted into the air grip all the way.  If the marker is inserted correctly, try GENTLY pulling the chisel tip out of the marker barrel just a little.
4. Make sure the slanted silver nozzle of the airbrush tip (the part that blows out air) is pointed straight down towards your paper -- you'll feel like you are overcompensating your aim.  The end of the air adapter/handle (where the air hose connects) will be pointed up:

 

Canned Air:

 
1. Air Can D60 (comes with the ABS-2) - Contains about 7-8 minutes of air; has built-in regulator, therefore does not need and air adaptor.
2. Air Can 80 (comes with the ABS-1) - About 20 minutes of air; needs an air adaptor.
3. Air Can 180 - Lasts about 40-45 minutes of continuous use; needs an air adaptor.

Air Compressors:

 
If you've quickly gone through several cans of air, or feel like you need to hoard your cans of air, then it may be time for an air compressor!  Here is some information on the ones Ellen carries, along with instructions on how to connect one, and some tips:

An air compressor's air pressure should be between 20-50psi (optimal is 40-50psi).  Under 20psi will make the ink spray pattern rough; over 50psi has the potential to break the air grip.  Both air compressors Ellen carries are quiet-running, zero maintenance, oil-free, 1/8 hp motor:

1. Sparmax AC-100 Airbrush Compressor - Approximately 8 lbs.
2. Sparmax AC-101 Windstorm Airbrush Compressor - Approximagely 9.9 lbs.  Key difference between this model and AC-100 is this one features an automatic shut-off.  When you are no longer spraying, the motor will automatically shut off.

And look how small the Windstorm Airbrush Compressor is -- not much larger than a standard A2-sized greeting card (1/4 sheet of 8.50" x 11" paper)!  This sits under my desk, ready to go whenever I need it:

 

I was pleasantly surprised at how quick & easy it is to hook up and get started with the Windstorm Airbrush compressor -- just four easy steps:

1. Attach the Pressure Gauge/Regulator (silver unit on the far right of the photo below) to the compressor: 

 

2. Attach one end of the curly air hose to the air outlet (black cylinder on the right in the photo below) and the other end of the curly hose to the air inlet (silver cylinder on the left in the photo below):

3. Connect the straight hose to the air outlet on the end of the silver cylinder (on the left in the photo below) and the other end of the straight hose attaches to the end of your air adaptor hand grip (ABS-3):

  
4. Plug in and you are ready to airbrush -- that simple!  Be sure to work in a well-ventilated area.

When Finished Airbrushing:
1. Pull the marker out of the air grip and replace cap.

Prolonged pressure against the parts of the air grip and joints can cause damage; therefore:
2. If using canned air, unscrew (counter-clockwise) the Air Control Screw on top of the canned air and then bleed the remaining air from the line (by depressing airbrush trigger).
3. When finished using the air compressor, turn the machine off and bleed air from the line.

Now, what can you do with your airbrush system & air compressor?  Here's a little sample:

I started by cutting a 7" piece of Ellen's Crystal Clear Plastic, to create an airbrushed frame "overlay".  I selected a piece of Webster's Petite Papers that I wanted to work with and placed it under the Clear Plastic.  Then I die cut butterflies from Eclipse Masking Tape and placed them where I wanted (the Eclipse tape is white but I had already used these butterflies on another project that got airbrushed blue!):

 

I wanted the airbrushing to be on the reverse side of the Plastic, so the shinier surface of the Clear Plastic would be on the front of the frame.  So I turned the Plastic over and lined up more die cuts:

 

The scalloped circle is where my photo will go.  Then I airbrushed with R85:

 

Here's what my Clear Plastic now looks like, with the masks removed:

 

Next, I wanted to make a scalloped overlay for the front side of the frame, to cover the photograph (which is attached to the top side of the frame).  So I scallop die cut a piece of Crystal Clear Plastic, cut a circle mask from more Eclipse Tape to place in the center of the scalloped circle, and then airbrushed it with BG45 & YG63.  The center circle mask ensures the center of my circle overlay will remain clear, allowing it to cover and protect my photo, without adding any additional color to the photo:

 

To attach the patterned paper to the back of the Clear Plastic, I used Glossy Accents under the photo and a tiny bit on each corner of the patterned paper:

 
 
Glossy Accents was also used to attached the scalloped piece over the top of my photo (on each of the scallop petals, not touching the photo).  Here, I discovered you need to have the airbrushing facing up, because the Glossy Accents will remove the airbrushed color if applied to it!

White Prima Flowers were customized and airbrushed to match the rest of my project -- R81 Copic marker was used to tip the white flowers and YG63 was used to color the smaller green flower:

White or cream accessories are wonderful to keep on hand so they can be airbrushed to match whatever project you are working on.  A clear Dew Drop was also airbrushed and added to the center of the flower group above.

Don't have a button that matches your project?  You can airbrush white, ivory or pearl ones any color you'd like!  Here, I used my same BG45 marker to airbrush a pearly button: 

 

To finish, I printed and cut out some journaling and attached it to the front of the frame, using Mini Glue Dots.  Martha Stewart's 3-in-1 Classic Butterfly punch was used to punch patterned paper and accent the airbrushed butterflies:

The butterfly wings were bent up and attached in the middles with rolled up Mini Glue Dots.
 
You can find another example of airbrushing with an air compressor on this frame I created and posted over in the CLASSroom (the frame started out white!):

Airbrush-Compatible Products:
Ellen has several other products that are airbrush compatible and assist in airbrushing your projects.  You can find these listed in the Manufacturer category in the store, under Essentials by Ellen.  These include:

1. Art Magnetic Masking Material - This lightweight flexible magnet sheeting is white on top.  You can use it to create your own unique reusable masks, by die cutting it in most die cutting systems, dies and electronic cutters.  You can also cut stencils by hand or use the shape of a rubber stamp.
2. Craft Assistant - The perfect companion to Art Magnetic Masking Material.  This product is black enameled metal that assists in holding your magnetic masks in place while you airbrush!  It should be available in the store in about two weeks.  You can keep checking the Essentials by Ellen category in the store to find it.  I'll be showing you how to use it in my projects in the next two weeks.
3. Craft-a-Board - Ellen's chipboard-like material that is thin enough to be used with most low-profile and regular die cut systems and is a soft white color that takes airbrushing beautifully.

Over the next few weeks, I'll be showing you several more airbrushing projects over in Ellen's CLASSroom, so I hope you'll join me there on Thursdays! 

 
Paper: Webster's Pages Petite Papers-Postcards From Paris
Ink: Copic markers R81, R85, YG63, BG45
Tools: Sparmax AC-101 Windstorm Airbrush Compressor, Copic ABS-3 Airbrush Kit, Tim Holtz Tiny Attacher, Zutter 1/2-inch Corner Rounder
Essentials by Ellen: Crystal Clear Plastic 8x8 
Dies & Punches: Spellbinders Butterflies 2, Classic & Classic Scalloped Circle Nestabilities, Martha Stewart 3-in-1 Classic Butterfly punch
Accessories: Eclipse Masking Tape, Prima Flowers, Prima Lace, Dew Drops, Button, Ranger Glossy Accents, Glue Dots

Christmas in July - Stamping "painted" gifts for those you love!

With each new month I try to figure out something that will inspire you and provide you with new learning opportunities. With the holiday season right around the corner (yes, it is going to be here before you can blink) I wanted to bring you two different projects in hopes that they will inspire you to start preparing for the gift-giving season ahead. If you are like me, then you MUST start now, or you will not be ready when the time comes.

ETA: Clue #2 Become an Ellen Hutson LLC Facebook Fan if you like Candy! If you don't like sweets or are in a hurry "scroll" through our blog sidebar and find your next clue. (Please note that you can always bypass the first time and return later today to join our Fan Club and leave your sweet comment. So hurry on, don't delay.)

This month I am sharing two completely different looks in hopes of appealing to small children, as well as the harder to please teen market. In doing so I took the opportunity to try something completely new to me. I hope that my "out of the box" thinking will appeal to some of you and that you will be inspired to create something completely different than what you typically create.

Cherry Apron

This first project is for the kids in your life - and yes, there are many adult kids too. I hope I can inspire you to create something for your children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews (boys should learn how to cook too - insert big grin) or for one of those larger kids you adore (these aprons come in adult sizes as well). 

Cherries are hot, hot, hot right now and when Studio Line artist Nancy Baier, of Cornish Heritage Farms, released these two awesome sets,  Fruit Basket and Vegetable Harvest, I immediately made a quick trip over to Michaels to pick up some premade fabric pieces to customize in hopes of inspiring you. It is just now that I am finally getting to one of these projects.

 

To begin I created the illusion of a pocket and border by masking off the canvas using tape. You can use masking, painter's, artist canvas or any tape that creates a firm bond with the fabric and keeps paint from seeping under the edges. After defining the areas I wanted to paint I prepped the area using gesso and allowed it to dry.

 

Using Palette, Burnt Umber (I used Palette ink because it is waterproof and is permanent even on fabric) I stamped the cherries randomly in this prepared area. The gesso provides a wonderful surface on which to stamp and paint your images.

Due to the tight timeline in which I created this piece I have not had time to launder it, but I hope to in the coming week. I will be certain to come back and add an amendment to this post and let you see the final outcome of my laundered apron.

 

Using the Studio Paints, add color and dimension to the cherries.

• stems - Sable Brown
• cherries - Dash of Red, Modern Red
• leaves - Landscape Green, Dab of Yellow, Smidge of Blue (mix yellow and blue to create a custom green color - see Claudine's coloring mixing guide)

Remove the masking strips and add some detail using red stitching, and red twill with white stitching.

The possibilities are endless. Randomly stamp and paint fruits and vegetables over the entire apron surface, customizing it for the recipient, and so much more. Again this apron was available in a multitude of sizes and would be suitable for the big kids (men )in your lives as well. The good news is that it took less than one hour to complete this project and so I would like to encourage you to give it a try.

Graffiti Grunged Clutch

 

Creating for teenagers can be extremely difficult. In thinking about what it is that teens seem to be attracted to, I thought about the clothing they are wearing. "Graphic tees" are in abundance and they are created in such a funky style. I think it is probably easier to create for girls than boys, but I do think that even a teen boy might appreciate a personalized piece of art for his wall that is created in this style. Or perhaps even a cover to a photo album that includes pictures of him with his friends.

One of the pleasures I have during the summer is having Maddi come to work with me. Having her at work is so rewarding for me, and with this project I was able to consult with her and involve her throughout the process. It was an awesome day!!!

Girls always need something to carry their "stuff" around in and so I began the quest to create a one-of-a-kind clutch for her. When I was teaching "art classes" in my home I had purchased a ton of cotton fabric to create the gift/wine bag shown below. It was my first experimentation with stamping/painting on fabric and teaching others this art form.

A basic fabric can take on so many different looks and so I highly recommend purchasing a number of yards of a basic fabric if you are interested in creating a diverse selection of fabric stamped gift items.

 

To create Maddi's clutch only very basic sewing skills are needed, so please don't be "threatened" by needing to pull out your sewing machine.

Before beginning, be certain to cover your work surface, protecting it from any errant paint or gesso. I used a large black plastic bag to protect my surface AND to act as my "paint pad" (see later note on this.)

Start with a piece of cotton/canvas fabric that is approximately 14"w x 18"l. It is easier to work with a piece of fabric that is slightly larger than what you want your finished size to be. Upon completion I cut the size of my canvas down to 11 1/2"w x 16 1/2"l.

Before beginning I googled graffiti images, as well as grunge images. I was inspired by the haphazard "messy" style. What I also noted was that almost all graffiti has black as a contrast to the vibrant colors used.

 

Begin by painting a layer of gesso on to your fabric and allow it to dry. The gesso covered surface is still extremely maleable, but keeps the paint from "sinking" in to the fabric. Maddi requested purple and blue as the key colors and so using a very "messy" technique I covered the surface with these two colors, mixing them in some areas and letting them stand alone in others.

 

To personalize her clutch we painted her hand with gesso. To even out the coating of gesso Maddi placed her hand on to the plastic table covering that was protecting my work surface and then "stamped" her hand imprint on to the dry painted surface.

 

To splatter and drizzle the paint on to your fabric, first thin out the Blank Canvas and Charcoal Black paints with water. To create the drizzle effect, apply the watery paint in a thin line and then hold the canvas up allowing the paint to flow down your canvas. Experimenting with these messy techniques is SO much fun!

After Maddi shared with me what she wanted for the focal image and word, I mentally positioned these key elements on what I envisioned to be the final project. By folding the canvas as I worked I was able to determine approximate placement of these items.

 

What would graffiti be without airbrushing? I had not yet experimented with airbrushing over the Studio Paint lines and wanted to determine how they would adhere. SO COOL! The key to success with the airbrush system is finding the right masking techniques to use to control the misty spray patterns. Fortunately I am surrounded by fabulous resources and for this project selected Tim's Ransom Alphabet and Heidi Swapp's Mini Bird Branch as the focal point. Layering your masks will add so much to the final result.

 

By airbrushing only the letters and then adding the bird atop this surface and contrasting this image with white paint, it creates a stronger focal point than if I would have put both masks in place at the same time.

 

I shared the large variety of masks and stamps we have with Maddi and had her select the key elements of this project. We decided to us one of the new All Things Considered, Key Elements stamp sets created by Becky to add additional elements to the canvas. I also needed a third color to make some of the accents "pop". I tried to convince here that a contrasting bright such as a limey yellow would be perfect, but it just doesn't quite suit her personality and so we stuck with Smidge of Blue instead - LOL!

 

To stamp using paint it is easiest to apply the paint to the stamp surface by brushing paint on to a solid surface, creating a custom "paint pad". Iink your stamp in a similar manner to inking it on a stamp pad. Be certain to have an old toothbrush ready at the sink and promptly clean your stamps after applying your paint. This makes for easy clean-up. If allowed to sit and dry at all, it becomes much more difficult to clean your stamps.

 

You can see in this photo how it is that I folded and unfolded the canvas to determine placement of the key elements. I really don't believe that there is a right or wrong way of doing a project such as this. It's all about the experience and giddy feeling you get when you create something so unusual.

 

As I thought about what else I had here at work that would be suitable for completing this purse or clutch the Perfect Closures came to mind. To alter the color and turn the strap to the black color I needed I simply applied the Palette Noir Inkpad directly to the surface. So easy and a perfect coordinate.

At this time I cut my canvas down to the finished size and added a second layer of the same fabric to what would be the inside of the clutch. I pinned these two layers together and simply stitched the ends together using a zig-zag stitch on both ends as shown below.

Next I ran a length of black twill down the length of the sides and stitched the two layers together with the black twill, using black thread.

 

I then folded up the bottom portion and completed the remaining stitching using blue and purple thread. To stay with the "messy" grunge feel I didn't even need to worry about sewing a straight line - LOL! In fact I wanted messy lines Ü

 

To add the closure I used my Crop-a-dile and punched holes in my canvas and affixed the closure, following the directions on the packaging.

 

I'm not certain how practical my addition of "bling" was, but I just couldn't resist and it was most definitely one of those elements that created the visual triangle that brings focus to the clutch face.

 

I hope that this creation will bring a whole new thought process to you. It might not be your "cup of tea", but perhaps there is someone on your gift list that would be so appreciative of your efforts. I can sincerely tell you that it has been one of the more rewarding projects for me, due to the involvement of my sweet Maddi. My next project is going to have to include my little sugar and spice girl, Trina - and will probably include the colors of orange, turquoise and perhaps yellow Ü

Creating for one's children is incredibly sentimental. I hope that I can be a good mom and help give my daughters wings so that they can soar to heights I can't even begin to imagine. Thank you for sharing in my excitement of this creative process and don't hesitate - START NOW and feel the sense of fulfillment this process brings you and others.

Irresistable Techniques using "Invisibles by Heidi Swapp"

Invisibles - what are they? This is the line of paper products that Heidi Swapp introduced at Winter 2009 CHA. It was one of the most innovative products at the show and I could hardly wait to have the opportunity to play with it. The fabulous design on these products is hard to see when unaltered, so why is it that I am so excited about these products? As an individual who likes to explore and create I find this product so much fun to work with. It allows me to fully customize the texture and color of my final piece without having to go to the work of creating the intricate resist background!

Today I am going to share a handful of different ways that you can alter or color this collection of paper, chipboard, chipboard shapes and alphabet letters. To do so I took one 12"x12" page and cut it in to 12-3"x3" squares. I then used different products to create each set of colored squares.

So what does one do with all the little test squares? I opted to turn them in to a paper quilt and then use that paper to cover an inexpensive mirror from IKEA. A girl's gotta love all the inexpensive alterables IKEA offers! (insert big grin) This would also make an amazing Scrapbook page background, or if you cut smaller squares to begin with and then piece them together, they would make an awesome card front. So many options, so little time!

 

Below I will explain how each square was colored. You will notice that each square above has a deeper color sponged around the outside edges. I did this to unite the individual feel of the squares, making them meld together more evenly. I also added additional color to some of the lighter test samples to bring balance as well.

So let's begin - what can you use to alter Invisibiles by Heidi Swapp collection?

Be certain to double click on any picture below to see it in the full size view. The details will show up so much better, but due to the large number of pictures I have used in this post I tried to keep them small and save on room.

STUDIO PAINT (or other Acrylic Paints will work as well)

 

The buttery consistency of the Studio line of products makes this a go to for many of my projects. As you can see from my containers they are well loved. I am sharing this series of photos so that you can see how it is that I mix the colors and create custom colors to coordinate with a particular product line. I really didn't have a vision for what I was going to do with my squares and so I decided to match the entire collection of squares to the Basic Grey Urban Collection. In doing so I knew that I would have so many paper options, buttons, brads, and more to use on my final piece - whatever it was going to be.

I use toothpicks, a little watercolor tray, and a small scoop-like spoon for adding water to my paints to create more of a wash (sorry I just can't remember where I found the scoop). By dipping the toothpick in to my individual paint pots and scooping a small amount in to my tray, as shown in the first picture it saves me a ton of cleanup time - no more cleaning my paint brush with each addition of a new color. The color charts that Claudine provides are SO very helpful in helping me know which colors to begin with.

Download Claudine Hellmuth Studio Line Color Mixing Guide

As you can see I added a fourth color, the traditional tan, after realizing that my color was just too intense and needed to be slightly dulled down.

The first square I painted I allowed to dry without touching it. The second yellow square was painted and then wiped with a paper towel. I loved the different effects that were created with this option. When completing my project I wanted them to be a little more even and so I dampened a paper towel and then lightly wiped the surface of the first dry square. Voila - more white appeared where the resist is applied, without impacting the remaining yellow background!

COPIC MARKERS

 

Being that I love Copic markers I had to see what results could be achieved with the markers. The first square on the left was airbrushed. As expected it covered the resist surface, as well as the paper background. BUT when I applied colorless blender solution to my paper towel and wiped the project again the alcohol ink immediately lifted from the resist area. It left a bit of a streaky background based on the way that I wiped the surface, but I know that with further testing and a little finessing some very interested effects will result.

I then wondered what it would look like when coloredwith a Copic marker and so I quickly colored one square with my R83 or perhaps it was R85. I should have taken a picture with the marker visible so that it would make it easier to remember these little details, but... alas I just have to guess now. Again I needed to wipe this square with a Colorless Blender Solution dampened paper towel.

Now that I had proven to myself that indeed the "resist section" would take on the alcohol ink color I came back and did a little removal with my colorless blender marker and added some deeper tones with the coordinating darker tones of this Copic color family. The idea of coloring these papers in multiple color tones appeals to me and so I hope that I have the opportunity to try that some day.

I also wanted to see how the Inkssentials White Opaque Pen would work with the Invisibles. WAY cool - love the addition of the white dots and with more time I can easily see myself doodling on these resist products to add additional pop and depth.

DISTRESS CRACKLE PAINT

 

In addition to the Studio Line of paints I wanted to try another type of paint and so I reached for my Distress Crackle paints. I did use water to thin down the consistency of this paint. As you can see the resist immediately started to repel the watered down paint. The view on the right shows what these squares look like after completion. The one on the left was left to almost fully dry before wiping it with a paper towel and the one on the right was wiped immediately after painting. 

I wish that I would have had more time. I would like to still test this product and cover it with a much thicker layer of the Distress Crackle Paint. I wonder if it will move from the resist areas and if it will dry and crack in the typical manner that Tim and Ranger intended. Time was ticking and so I will leave that for another day.

CHALK

 

To begin I used my trusty old set of Stampin' Up chalks. Simply using a sponge dauber I applied the chalk evenly to the entire surface. I then selected a darker color tone from my Pebbles Pearlescent chalks and added some dimension to the piece using the small pom poms provided in their kit. The effect was soft an subtle.

DYE INK

 

The easiest method to apply color to the Invisibles products is to use the ink blending tool and dye ink. I tested both the Distress Ink (the peachy pink squares above were inked using Tattered Rose)and the Adirondack Dye Inks that we carry in the store. Absolutely delicious looking! and SO very easy.

The difference between the two squares above is almost imperceptible. The square on the left was inked and left alone, the square on the right was inked and then wiped with a paper towel. A little of the Pool ink did come off on the paper towel leaving the resist covered areas a brighter white then those left completely alone. It is almost as though wiping with the paper towel is like polishing a mirror - it just brightens the resist surface.

PERFECT PEARLS GLIMMER GLITZ

 

Tattered Angels Glimmer Mist is all the rage right now, but I do not own any. How odd is that?!? I just haven't found a need to purchase the many different colors, because I do own the entire Perfect Pearls collection and many dye reinkers. It has been several years since CHA when I had the opportunity to meet Tim and talk to him about these products. I was hooked! So I guess you could say that I have been making my own "glimmer mist" since that time, well before Glimmer Mist existed.

Today I will share how simple it is to make your own little custom colored bottle of Glimmer Mist. As you can see I opened an Urban Prairie tablet to a new page - a green/blue combination. Using a green base (Shabby Shutters Distress Reinker) with a blue sparkle (Turquoise Perfect Pearls) I mixed my ingredients in a Mini Mister.

I follow Tim's "recipe" of using one dropper full (NOT one drop, but the entire dropper full) of ink, add one of my little "tea" spoons of Perfect Pearls (My girls no longer use the little "Dora" tea set these came with, so I have confiscated all the spoons - LOL!) and then fill the remaining portion of the mister to within 1/2" of the top. Do not fill it completely because you do need to leave room to shake the mixture. You will need to put on some good music and shake girls! Shake, shake, shake! When you are ready to spritz your project then shake again.

Spritz your project. The sample on the left was left to dry completely. The sample on the right I let sit for about half a minute and then I wiped it with a paper towel. I then needed to add additional color using my ink blending tool and Shabby Shutters ink pad. I love how even and subtle the shimmer is when created in this manner. It was hard to capture in a photo, but is so subtle and elegant in person.

COMPLETING THE PROJECT

 

It was when I saw all my beautiful little finished squares sitting on the table in front of me that it occured to me to make a "quilt" with them. I thought that I would share a brief series of photos to help anyone else who might want to make something similar.

Due to the fact that I wanted to have my square return to it's original 12x12 size I cut strips of typing paper to use as my base. By applying a strip of adhesive on the outside edge of this paper using my Glue Glider I was able to avoid putting glue on the area that would need to be stitched. I tell you this so that you do not inadvertantly put glue directly beneath the area that you will stitch. Adhesive will "GUM" up your sewing machine. I have learned through experience that putting adhesive in an area that will be sewed is NOT a good idea - LOL! Putting adhesive BESIDE the stitching area is a "good thing".

Attach four squares and then stitch. Repeat three more times. Then attach these four long strips together and voila - a perfect quilt. You could alter the positioning and create all sorts of intricate quilt-like patterns! Let the creating begin!

 

Following are a few additional tips for covering this mirror:

• Measure the mirror precisely and score your "quilt" along the lines that will be folded around the mirror. This will provide clean, crisp edges.
• Cut out the center mirror section using an X cut. Be certain that the paper fits the mirror well BEFORE applying any adhesive!
• Paint the unfinished wood with Gesso before applying the Matte Medium. This will keep your adhesive from soaking in to the wood.
• Apply Matte Medium to both the top wood surface, as well as to the surface of the paper that will adhere to it.
• Apply Matte Medium to the edges and back of the frame, as well as the coordinating paper surfaces.
• Lastly, apply Matte Medium to the interior edge of the mirror and to the coordinating paper surface.
• Use a teflon bone folder to press your project in to place firmly. Remove any air bubbles while still wet.

 

I then embellished the frame using coordinating chipboard accents, flowers, pearls, butterfly and corner accent pieces. The corner pieces were shiny and just did not fit the look, yet I knew that they would be the pièce de résistance. Gesso to the rescue! Gesso adheres to metal and is white - it is the perfect tool to "shabify" any metal piece!

If you are looking for something new to perk up your creativity then I would like to recommend that you get some of these products to play and experiment with! If you are in need to alphabet stickers in a myriad of colors then I would like to suggest that you purchase a set and alter them using your ink pads - you will have any coordinating color letter, or multi-colored letters for all of your projects!

Get out your masks and add distinct patterns to this paper - the opportunities for exploration are huge!!! So stimulate your creativity today with the Invisibles line of products.

SUPPLIES USED:

Invisibles (located in the Alterables and Specialty Papers section of our store) - Classic Vintage, Ornate Frames, Shapes

Studio Line by Claudine Hellmuth- Dab of Yellow, Painterly Pink, Blank Canvas, Traditional Tan, Gesso, Multi Medium, Brushes

Copic Markers and Airbrush System - R83, R85, RV34, Colorless Blender Marker, Colorless Blender Solution, Airbrush System

Adirondack Ink Pads: Pool, Stream, Butterscotch, Caramel, Shell Pink, Watermelon, Mountain Rose

Distress Ink Pads: Shabby Shutters, Tattered Rose

Embellishments: Webster's Pages Classic Trim Collection, 12" White Strip Pearls, Snow Pearls, Prima Butterfly C,

Other Supplies:Inkssentials White Opaque Pen, Broken China Distress Crackle Paint, Stampin' Up and Pebbles Pearlescent Chalks, Ink Blending Tool, Turquoise Perfect Pearls, Shabby Shutters Distress Reinker,  1" Metal Corners