It's good to be back to share how it is that I created one of the cards for our hybrid focus this month. Still two projects to go - slow and steady was how the tortoise completed his race - LOL! I promise I will continue to share as quickly as possible, but probably at the tortoise' pace. :-D
This project is absolutely stunning in person. There is something about the transparent layer that brings so much depth to this card.
I would like to encourage you to check out the many options that are available at your fingertips in the ScrapHD files. There are loads of different options to select from!
Now that I have shared how to find and download images, and how to create individual Word documents for each file, I want to share a picture of the actual page I printed in Word. I do NOT like to waste product and so when I was creating the reason I ended up creating three transparency projects was because I needed to use the entire sheet - LOL!
As you can see I used the landscape orientation and set my margins (the space around all the edges) to .25". Next I created two columns with .5" between the columns. When I inserted my files from ScrapHD into my document it then automatically centered the images for me.
I wanted to fold the transparency and so I positioned the birds on the lower portion of the transparency leaving the top blank. Before I placed my images on my 8x8 scrapbook page on the ScrapHD site I did my "math" by creating a quick sketch and figuring out how much space I wanted to cover with my bird images. I find that I avoid waste by planning ahead.
The files on the right side were used to create the two projects linked above.
One of the tips I would like to share when feeding these special Ink Jet transparencies into your printer is to feel the transparency. One side is completely smooth - the other has a very slight texture to it. It is the side with the texture that is the preferred side for printing and coloring on. This is the side you want your ink to print on.
You will have to figure out which way to place it in your printer - once you figure that out you may want to make a note on your printer so that you don't forget in the future. I typically will use a piece of copy paper when I first get a printer and put an X on the side I think it will print on. If it prints on the side with the X you know you have inserted it correctly. I hope this makes sense because it is hard to figure out how to teach you this, because it is different for each printer.
The next step was to color the transparency with Copic markers. No worries about color on the same side as the printing - this will not run the ink. It is best to color on the same side as the printing.
Selecting from the many beautiful options that Webster's Pages provides was simple. I placed my image over the papers before beginning. As you can see the page above gives a completely different look than the one below.
I colored my images based on the colors in this paper.
When folding a transparency it is best to place a piece of copy paper over the surface to reduce the chance of scratching the transparency. Then use your scoring tool, firmly crease the transparency. I folded my transparency so that my colored image would be on the interior next to my notecard. This helps reduce any friction which might wear the image off more easily.
I absolutely love the Jenni Bowlin vintage buttons, but wanted an even more rustic feel. You can see the slight difference it makes to take the ink blending tool and ink the button - then gently wipe the surface leaving the excess ink in the creases. You could also use paint - metallic or matte, gesso or some other medium to age the buttons as well.
Complete the look by adding crochet lace, a faux linen ribbon, a word charm charm and button. A bayou notecard brightens the card and gives that much needed feeling of springtime.
image: Jenni Bowlin Birds - ScrapHD file
ink: Copic Markers (I apologize for forgetting to take a picture of the colors I used - sorry about that), Palette Burnt Umber
You are all going to laugh at me --- I had to find some boxes that the wonderful little "foundations" or feet would work with. Cosmo Cricket had THE perfect solution :D Today I would like to share how it is that I created this gorgeous jewelry box. It was such a quick and easy project and I am tickled with the result! You will find this box in a special new category we have created - Deal of the Week. We will be trying to come up with a new item each week and sell it at a great value. This week it is going to be these darling boxes!
To begin I headed over to ScrapHD to see what images I could find. I have to admit that I spent loads of time pouring through the files. I am SO very excited about what I found. The ScrapHD options are fabulous!!!
There is a new introduction page which makes it quicker to select which option you would like to work with. For this project I selected an 8x8 blank canvas.
I then clicked on the embellishment icon on the left-hand side of the page and then the plus symbol. This opens the category window. Next I selected Manufacturer and the list of all 14 manufacturers drops down. After I selected Jenni Bowlin I paged through the embellishment options until I found the page shown above.
A quicker option would have been to type the object I was looking for, in this case butterfly, in the search window. Then click on Jenni Bowlin. All butterflies in the Jenni Bowlin embellishment category will then be shown. The search mechanism makes finding things easier, but if you are like me I want to see all my options first - LOL!
When you click on the butterfly it will flutter on over to your work surface on the left. Simply click on the butterfly and drag it on to 8x8 working surface. You can then click on the corner of the butterfly image and resize it. I wish I could remember the finished size of my butterfly, but because I am working from home tonight and do not have my project at hand I cannot measure it. Sorry about that. I had previously measured the window opening in the Blackboard box and created the butterfly to fit in that window.
I then clicked on the "print from home" button and entered a name for the project I had just created.
Simply follow the directions as each box pops up.
To review the previous "lesson" in which I showed how to create a transparency printable please read this post on my simple dreams blog. You can follow those directions to place your image in a Word document as I showed in that post.
To add depth and color to the butterfly I began by coloring my butterfly with Copic markers Y28 and B28. The wonderful thing about using a printed image vs. a stamped image is that you can color on the same side as your image. I have not found an ink that will hold up to Copic markers when stamping on transparencies. The only option when using a stamped image is to color on the opposite side. Coloring on the opposite side works well for most images, but unfortunately does not work for words. So I am excited about the possibilities.
To bring depth and vibrancy to this image I then used paint to add yet another layer of color. I began by using Aged Gold. The sparkle and consistency make this a FABULOUS metallic paint!
Use Smidge of Blue with a little black added on the blue portions, to coordinate with the beautiful navy silk ribbon and tones in the Webster's pages paper.
To create the neutral I mixed the Antique Gold together with Traditional Tan. Mixing the Studio Line paints together with the Eco Green Craft metallics worked beautifully and I was able to easily coordinate the color again with my Webster's paper. The softer glint that adding the metallic to the tan paint was delicious.
I then used temporary adhesive to locate my 6x6 paper to the inside of the lid of the Memory Box. 6x6 is the perfect size paper to work with these boxes :D
I then flipped the box over and using my fingertip knife I cut along the outline of the design. It worked perfectly - yippie. Using a pale gold leafing pen I outlined the edges to finish the look.
Adding some pearls, silk ribbon, a flower and a button completed the top.
The sides with coordinating Webster's paper, and a sheet of paper was placed inside the bottom of the box, to add that finishing touch when looking through the transparent window. Then came the pièce de résistance - the feet :D Using an adhesive such as E6000 would probably have been a better choice, but because I was in a hurry I just used a bunch of glue dots. Amazingly it work - LOL! Probably not the best choice, but when I girl has to finish a project in a timely manner you just do it :-)
I hope that you enjoy learning about the digital options. Please check out this post on the CLASSroom to learn about the current special being offered by ScrapHD. Give it a try - you will be amazed at how simple it is to use!
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.
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.
Thank you for your interest in ScrapHD + Ellen Hutson, LLC. If I was a little more computer savvy this would be a landing page in our webstore, but until I can figure out how to do the coding this will have to suffice. Following are some answers to the most basic questions you might have:
ScrapHD is a program that is operated independently from Ellen Hutson, LLC. It allows you to create a quick and easy digital scrapbook or card --- then print, share and/or embellish it with your favorite paper craft supplies! ScrapHD's "builder" is simple enough for beginners, yet also has features expert digital users are looking for! There are plenty of free designs to choose from, but become a Club Member for tons of extra benefits and designs from top manufacturers in the industry!
Is ScrapHD owned and operated by Ellen Hutson, LLC?
No, ScrapHD is a limited liability company based in Prospect Heights, Illinois. Scrap HD is completely independent from Ellen Hutson, LLC.
If I have questions regarding the program who do I contact?
To obtain complete and thorough answers it is best to login to ScrapHD's Help Desk. You can click on "Help" from the builder to find this link, or login from ScrapHD.com and choose "Help Desk" from the "My Account" tab. Katy, Ross and Ryan have been incredibly helpful and offer top-notch customer service! We here at Ellen Hutson, LLC will also do our best to help you, but do not have the "behind-the-scenes" understanding of how the program is put together. Please do not hesitate to ask us though and we will do our best to put you in contact with the appropriate individual - customerservice@ellenhutson.com.
Hybrid design is the combination of digital and traditional paper crafting and scrapbooking. Visit our store, Ellen Hutson, LLC to pick up supplies to Make it Hybrid! We are your resource for the traditional elements when making it hybrid; ScrapHD is your resource for the digital elements for making it hybrid.
What is the cost of ScrapHD?
ScrapHD offers a Free Membership with limited capabilities and a Club Membership for those that want unlimited access to designs and additional features. We invite you to create a free account and start playing now! The Free Membership remains free for as long as you can resist the temptation to become a Club Member. Club Membership is $9.99/month or$99 a year if you pay upfront (you get 2 months free with an annual commitment.) This fee is paid directly to ScrapHD.
How do I upgrade from my Free Membership?
Upgrading is simple - just click on any of the Club Membership or Upgrade tabs.
Will my membership automatically renew each month/year?
ScrapHD has set up automatic renewal for both monthly and yearly Club Members. If a member signs up on the 15th day of any given month they can expect to be billed on the 15th of the following month for month to month members or on the 15th day of that same month the following year for annual Club Members.
How do I cancel my subscription?
Logged in users will be able to cancel their subscritpion from the ScrapHD's "My Account" tab at any time. Simply click on the appropriate button labeled "Cancel my Subscription" from this tab. It will then revert back to a payment screen in case you would like to join again at a later date.
How can I tell what is Free vs. Club content?
White frame around thumbnail previews = Free
A grey frame around thumbnail previews = Club Members only
(Club members will have access to everything, so themed pages and all artwork will have a white frame in the preview section.)
How do I access My Account after set-up is complete?
Simply go return to any of our "Join the Club and Return to My Account" buttons and click on the link or go to ScrapHD.com and log in. Logged in users will see the "My Account" button underneath the pink "Create a Scrapbook" button. Click "My Account" and under the "Me" tab you will have access to viewing your saved scrapbooks and download your print from home files, send and receive private messages, create and view your profile page, connect with Facebook so that your FB newsfeed gets updated with your latest ScrapHD activity, or logout. By clicking "My Profile" you will also be able to modify your e-mail notifications to turn e-mails on/off when someone has added you as a friend, or when you receive a message.
How do I build a scrapbook?
Please visit ScrapHD's Tutorials, Forum and Blog for educational tips and tricks. We here at Ellen Hutson, LLC will also be providing education here on our Blogs. Check the Hybrid Design category in both the CLASSroom and here on In Touch for our instructional materials.
How do I share my scrapbooks across the web?
Please visit the ScrapHD Tutorial center for tips and instructions on how to share your scrapbooks across the web. Private scrapbooks may be shared with family and friends by using an invite code. If you publish your scrapbook it will be visible in the ScrapHD community and is eligible to be shared with others by using a Direct Link or an Embed Link located next to the displayed layout. Directly above the published layout will be the "Share This" button, a rotating icon that provides one-click easy sharing via e-mail, blogs, or just about any social network! You can turn your private scrapbook into a published one at anytime, and vice-versa.
Professional Prints
What print options will be available?
Ordering through the ScrapHD print fulfillment center will become available the beginning of April 2010. At that time Hardcover Leather, Custom Hardcover Image Wrap, Custom Softcover Image Wrap, Single Page Prints will become available in 12x12, 8x8 and 5x7 sizes. In addition 5x7 Folded Card with Envelope and 5x7 Flat Card with Envelope will be amongst the selections you can choose from. Stay tuned for updates as we receive word!
Club Members can enjoy "Print from Home" features now.
Can I print on my 8.5x11 printer?
Yes, you can print your 8x8 or 5x7 layouts and cut them down to the appropriate size. You can also resize these images in other programs such as Office Word to customize the size even further.
I do not see the "Print from Home" button. Where do I find it?
Print from Home is available to Club Members only. If you are logged in as a Free Member you will not see the button. Club Members will find the button located next to the "Print" button near the top of the scrapbook builder application.
Where will I find my print from home files?
Once you have initiated a print from home you will see a popup that says ScrapHD will e-mail the high resolution version of your scrapbook to your registered e-mail address. An e-mail will be sent with a direct link to download your print from home pages once the order has had time to process. Additionally, you can locate the print archive of the scrapbook by clicking "Open" in the builder where there will be a brown clickable file folder next to the thumbnail of the scrapbook. You will also be able to locate your print files via "My Account" under the "Me" tab. Click on your scrapbooks and the print file will be available for 90 days. If you wish to print your file after 90 days has expired, feel free to initiate another Print from Home on that file and ScrapHD will send it to you again.
How long does it take for my Print from Home file to become available?
Print from Home times vary depending on how many pages are being processed in the ScrapHD queue. This time ranges from 10 minutes to 24 hours based on demand and peak times. An email notification will be sent once your print from home order has been processed.
What paper do you your recommend for printing files from home?
We offer the ScrapHD photo paper, 12x12 and 8x8 sizes, in our store for those instance when you want a top quality photo paper. We also carry transparencies for both Ink Jet and Laser Printers for unique applications. And don't forget that awesome Neenah Cardstock - it is wonderful for printing your paper elements!
TIPS AND TECHNIQUES
Save your work frequently.
Enter the contests - it will give you incentive to play and you could possibly win some fun prizes :D
Watch the tutorials and join in a Free Webinar - the learning curve will be so much quicker this way!
