the CLASSroom

Hello, Monday--on a Tuesday... ;) 04.16.2013

Mother's Day is a comin'... my own mama is at a stage in life where she is trying to simplify life, declutter--heck, I'm at the stage myself!!! So just what do you give that awesome lady? Well, why not give her the evening off from worrying about what's for dinner and treat her to a meal at her favorite restaurant?

When it comes to gift cards, I am always on the hunt for a different way to present them and when I spied these adorable mini bags by Webster's Pages, I simply HAD to have them! They are perfect, not only for gift cards, but you could tuck a pair of tickets to a show, cash, or even a sweet note inside!

These fabby mini bags come in a package of assorted designs or you can get them in bulk, 25 of the same design in a pack--awesome for party favors and whatnot!

Enjoy the video here or on YouTube and thanks for subscribing to our channel!

SUPPLIES & MATERIALS:

 

Webster's Pages Composition & Color Collection by Allison Kreft, Mini Bags	Studio Calico Snippets 6x6 Paper Pad	A Cardstock, Essentials by Ellen: White Linen #100 Cardstock, 25 Pack	October Afternoon, Farm Girl Label Stickers
Pink Paislee Portfolio Collection, Puffy Glitter Alphabet Stickers	My Mind's Eye Decorative Tape, Red & Turquoise	Lawn Fawn Clear Stamps, Lemon Single Cord	Making Memories, Paper & Ribbon Slot Punching Tool
Martha Stewart Scoring Board, Mini	Teflon Bone Folder	Studio Calico, Mister Huey's Color Mist, Silver	Essentials by Ellen: Sequins, Iridescent Sky
Essentials by Ellen: Sequins, Iridescent Melon	Essentials by Ellen: Sequins, Iridescent Daffodil	Tweezers, Stainless	QuickStik
Accents, Glossy	Kool Tak White Foam Adhesive, 1/4 Squares (1/16 Thick)

InLinkz.com

Spring Canvas by Sharon Harnist

I was feeling extra Spring-y this week, with all the pretty sunshine (preceeded by a few nice days of rain!) and all the Texas Bluebonnets starting to bloom along the road sides, so I wanted to capture that feeling on canvas and here are the results:

After a few trial and error attempts, I came up with this successful method when wanting to stamp and color with Copic markers onto a stretched canvas frame. Sometimes a detailed stamp like this one is difficult to get a crisply stamped image when trying to stamp onto a stretched canvas over a wood frame.

To begin, I stamped the Hero Arts DesignBlock Flower Text (measuring a nice 6" x 4-1/2") with Memento Tuxedo Black ink onto Claudine Hellmuth's Studio Sticky Back Natural Canvas-8-1/2" x 11" 

Then I started coloring . . . Here are the step-out photos of each flower and its corresponding Copic Sketch colors used:

1. I feather blended together Y18 and YR16 (start by coloring with the lighter Y18, then flick the YR16 from the center of the flower outward):

2. YG25 and G17 for the the leaves:

3. V04 and V06 for the purple flower:

4. The same greens and yellow from the first flower:

5. For the center flower, I used B02 & B05 for the flowers and a little bit lighter green combo of YG03 & G05 for the leaves, just for a little variation:

6. As a final coloring step, I decided to go back over the stamped lines and deepen the color with a Copic Multiliner 0.8 (from the Broad 4pc Set). This was just personal preference -- I really like how it made the flower colors pop! The right two flowers below have already been outlined, but you could skip this step if you wanted a more natural flower look like the purple flower on the left that still had not been outlined -- it has a more "painterly" look:

The final step was to trim the Sticky Back canvas to the size of my 5 x 7 Chunky Stretched Natural Canvas (the Sticky Back canvas trims very easily with your paper trimmer or scissors), peel off the backing and stick the colored canvas to the front of the stretched canvas frame (ahem -- thus covering up a previous non-successful stamping attempt!):

The finishing touch was to tie on some pretty Springy May Arts Parrot Green Crochet Ribbon around the left side:

I hope this project helps put you in the Spring spirit and encourages you to get crafting this weekend!

~ Sharon

{Supplies}

Edited 4/9/13: I see you all scooped up the remaining supply of of this great Hero Arts large DesignBlock stamp! If you are looking for a similar stamp, I recently found these while browsing through the Warehouse Sale section of the store (which means great prices!):

Hero Arts Words & Flowers (set of 4):

Three Quirky Flowers:

I hope that helps! ~ Sharon

Hero Arts DesignBlock, Flower Text	Memento Ink Pad, Tuxedo Black	Natural Studio Sticky Back Canvas 8.5x11	Copic Sketch Markers
Copic Multiliner 4pc Set, Broad	Canvas Corp Chunky Stretched Natural Canvas, 5x7	May Arts Crochet Ribbon, Parrot Green

InLinkz.com

12 Tags of Christmas with a Feminine Twist 2012 - Day 11 by Carolyn Peeler

One of my goals with this series was to try and share a wide variety of beautiful styles with you, so I was absolutely thrilled when Carolyn Peeler accepted my invitation to share her shabby elegant tag with all of us! Her travels abroad to teach and learn are evident in the work that she creates. The soft color palette and little details add warmth and character to each of her projects!

You can find more of her beautiful vintage inspired work on her blog Cut N' Paste. You will discover all sorts of inspiration ranging from beautiful jewelry pieces to vintage goodies she has found in her travels. If an art camp is on your to do list you must check out the one offered by Terri Brush on the Oregon Coast - Carolyn will be sharing some fabulous scrapbooking tricks with the lucky women who attend this event!

Thank you Carolyn for once again sharing your talents with us here in the CLASSroom and even more importantly for being a caring friend! -Ellen

1. Gather two sheets of the Madonna collage paper from the Attic Treasures Vol. 2 6x6 paper pad. I used 2 sheets because one was too short to cover the entire tag. Plus, I did not want to use the portion of the paper with the lamb on it as it did not scream “Christmas” to me ☺

2. Before gluing the papers onto the tag, peel off the dark brown reinforcement that is around the hole at the top of the tag and hang onto it to use later in the project. Glue the papers onto your tag, aligning them however you would like. Trim the excess paper using a craft knife. Using a hole punch, punch the upper hole back onto the tag. Then, glue the dark brown hole reinforcement back onto the tag.

3. Stamp the Angelic Tidings stamp onto your white cardstock. Color using the Copic colors listed. One of the really nice things about this image is that you can color it with just a few colors and still have it look fabulous. Hitting the image with the markers in just a few places and using the white of the cardstock as a part of the ‘colors’ in the finished image can take major time off the coloring procedure.

4. Using scissors, trim the colored image from the cardstock. Also, cut a scrap of fabric (I used osanburg because it was what I had on hand. Muslin, burlap or canvas would also look lovely) a little bigger than your cut out image.

5. Using your sewing machine, sew the fabric to the upper center of the tag as pictured.
6. Using ¼” wide double sided tape, go around the edges of your tag.
7. Sprinkle the Tarnished Silver Glass glitter onto your double sided tape. Tap off the excess and pour it back into your container.

8. Tie a double bow with cream seam binding, then sew one of the Melissa Frances reproduction Glass buttons onto the center of it. Using a glue dot, stick the bow over the hole on the top of the tag.

9. Using pop dots, or other dimensional adhesive, attach the stamped image to the fabric, centering her.
10. Take the long aqua rectangle chipboard piece from the top left of the 5th Avenue Melissa Frances Chipboard accent package and cut a banner shape from it. Distress the edges of the tag with Tea Dye Distress ink. Glue it under the fabric, centering it in the remaining empty space at the bottom of the tag.

11. Using your computer, print “merry Christmas” onto cream cardstock using the Embossed Germanica font. Cut the sentiment from the cardstock and distress its edges with the Tea Dye Distress Ink. Glue the sentiment onto the center of the chipboard from step #10. To finish, place a small rhinestone on either side of the ‘merry christmas’ greeting.

Inkssentials Surfaces, Kraft Tag #8	A1 Cardstock, Neenah Classic Crest Natural White, 25 pack	Pearl Cling Stamps, Angelic Tidings	Attic Treasures 6x6 Paper Pad
Chipboard Accents, 5th Avenue	Melissa Frances Glass Glitter, Tarnished Silver	Buttons, Reproduction Glass Assortment, 6pk	Tim Holtz, Crinkle Ribbon
Memento Ink Pad, Tuxedo Black	Distress Ink Pad, Tea Dye	Ink Blending Tool	COPIC Sketch Marker E000, Pale Fruit Pink
COPIC Sketch Marker E00, Skin White	COPIC Sketch Marker E35, Chamois	COPIC Sketch Marker E42, Sand White	COPIC Sketch Marker Y23, Yellowish Beige
COPIC Sketch Marker R30, Pale Yellowish Pink	COPIC Sketch Marker, 0 Colorless Blender	Glue Dots, 3/8"	Glue Dots, Pop Up
High Tack Double-Sided Tissue Tape, 1/4"	Non-stick Micro Serrated Scissors	Craft Knife, Fingertip

InLinkz.com

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Thank you Carolyn for sharing this beauty with us! Please leave your comment for Carolyn below to be eligible for the random drawing of the $25 gift certificate to our store www.ellenhutson.com - be certain to do so before noon on December 13th to be eligible (one comment per person please.) I can't believe that tomorrow we wrap up this years' series of feminine tags - we hope you will come back and join us!

12 Tags of Christmas with a Feminine Twist 2012 - Day 10 by Maile Belles

One of the many things that I have thoroughy enjoyed in this year's tag celebration is the fabulous array of styles these talented women have shared with us throughout. Today we take a turn back to the refreshingly clean and simple style of Maile Belles.

Maile is so very talented at making the simple look stunning and modern! Once again I would like to share Maile's blog with you - at Simply Stamped you will find beautiful examples of the fresh look that can be created with stamps, ink, paper and a few subtle embellishments.

Thank you Maile for once again inspiring us with your soft, feminine and clean style! -Ellen

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I'm so excited to be joining you and I couldn't be more honored to be a part of this festive 12 Tags of Christmas event! I am ever so grateful to the lovely Ellen Hutson for this chance to be with you today. This year’s theme, of incorporating a feminine touch to our tags, has been an inspiring one and I couldn't help but take it in a fresh and modern direction by creating a tag featuring an unexpected feminine twist. The card, for the most part, would be suitable for either male or female; but it's the added touch of the unexpected tree color that makes this tag perfect for any of the women in your life. I just can't get over how cute those pink trees are! They give this tag such a nice pop of color against the dominating neutral color theme.

Here's how to create one of your own...

1. Stamp the tag base with the speech bubbles in white ink.

2. Once the ink is dry, attach washi tape across the front of the tag.

3. Wrap the washi tape back around to the back of the tag and carefully aligning both ends together.

4. Trim off a nice edge using scissors. Doing it this way allows for a nice edge, free of washi tape adhesive.

5. Stamp the trees and sentiment onto cardstock. Attach the stamped panel to the tag with dimensional adhesive and embellish with a rhinestone star.

6. To complete, top the tag with extra wide silk ribbon and tie ends together with a thin silk ribbon bow. This adds another a nice feminine touch.

So glad you stuck with me for this one! I hope you've enjoyed. Now have a splendid day my friends!

Maile

Studio Calico ClearDesign, Spread Joy from Hero Arts	Hero Arts Memories Pigment Ink Pad, Unicorn White	Hero Hues Dye Ink: Green	Archival Ink Pad, Rose Madder
Jenni Bowlin Dye Ink Pad, Fountain Pen	A Cardstock, Neenah Classic Crest Solar White, 25 pack	Inkssentials Surfaces, Kraft Tag #8	October Afternoon, Witch Hazel Washi Tape, Mesh
Self-Adhesive Rhinestone Stars, Black	Silk Ribbon, White 1 1/4" wide by the Yard	Silk Ribbon, White 1/4" by the Yard

InLinkz.com

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Please join us in thanking Maile for once again sharing her clean, simply style with us! Leave your comment below to be eligible for the random drawing of the $25 gift certificate to our store www.ellenhutson.com - be certain to do so before noon on December 13th to be eligible (one comment per person please.) Tomorrow brings one last guest artist - Carolyn Peeler's beautiful classic style is certain to bring a smile to your day!

12 Tags of Christmas with a Feminine Twist 2012 - Day 9 by Paula Cheney

As I began to think about whether or not to proceed with the 12 Tags of Christmas with a Feminine Twist this year when Tim moved to showcasing a tag and techniques each month I didn't quite know what to do or how to pay homage to what was the beginning of this series here in the CLASSroom. Each year it would get a tad manic as I would try to pull off creating a tag inspired by Tim's tags, but I wanted something special for all those of you who have been such loyal customers and supporters over the years. It has been a welcome change to not have the level of insanity that has ensued over the last few years and more importantly these lovely ladies have taken my breath away with their stunning tags! To have Paula here representing Tim and his product line is something I appreciate more than she can know.

Paula Cheney inspires me! The precision and care she takes when she creates her projects simply blows me away! You must visit the blog she shares with fellow crafter and friend Debbie. Visit One Lucky Day to see one of the most beautiful handcrafted Artful Christmas Villages I have laid eyes on this season. Elegant, exquisite, extraordinary - those are just a few of the words I can come up with that will hopefully make you click that link! I don't know anyone who can showcase the Tim Holtz products better than Paula and Debbie.

Thank you so much for sharing your friendship with me Paula and also for the inspired tag you created for us here in the CLASSroom! -Ellen

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Apply Frayed Burlap and Spun Sugar Distress Stains next to each other on Non-stick Craft Sheet by pressing down on craft sheet and apply pressure to the sides of the bottle.

Mist with water from a Mini Mister. 

Lay a #8 manilla tag in the Distress Stain to pick up stain.  Dry with Heat Tool then repeat steps until satisfied with the look of the tag.

Emboss tag with Sizzix Alterations texture fade - Textured Poinsettia.  To cover the entire #8 tag with texture you must imprint 1/2 of the tag at a time.   Place tag into the texture fade and run through Vagabond machine.

Turn tag around and run the other half through the machine.  Hard to tell where the line is, right?

Use a small paint brush to mix a bit of water and Perfect Pearls - Heirloom Gold on a non stick craft sheet until you have a smooth liquid.  If paint is too thin just add a bit more of the Perfect Pearls Powder.

Use a small brush to paint a few of the poinsettias.  Note: the center of the tag will be covered so concentrate on the top and bottom areas. 

Set aside tag to work on center wreath.

Cut a piece of Grungepaper 6 x 6”.  Use a collage glue stick to adhere a piece of book paper to the Grungepaper.

Use Holiday Wreath die to cut wreath shape from grungepaper.

Use an ink blending tool and vintage photo distress ink to age the edges of the wreath and well as the small leaves that pop up.  set aside.

Cut two pieces of manilla cardstock 2 1/2 x 12”. 
Use one to cut the Festive Greenery decorative strip. 
From the Festive Greenery die cuts, you will need 4 leaves and a pine branch (save other strip and pieces for later).  Use Distress Stain- Tarnished Brass to paint all 5 pieces (shake before use).
Note: there is one large leaf that points left...do not flip over to match the others.

Once all pieces are painted, use Emboss-it pad to coat the entire surface of branch.

Place on a sheet of paper.  Pour Sticky Embossing Powder over branch.

Gently tap off excess powder, place branch on non-stick craft mat.  Slide leftover power back into jar. 

Melt powder using your Heat Tool...as you can see the embossing powder turns clear and sticky.  So much easier to see the reaction when the manila paper is painted gold. 

Immediately cover melted powder with Stickles Dry Fine Glitter - platinum. 

When it is cooled, gently tap off excess glitter.  I like to go over with the Heat Tool again for about 30 seconds.  I find that it seems to cement the glitter into the sticky surface. 
Repeat steps with all 4 leaves.
NOTE: I love this method of adding glitter to a tiny surface area.  I have found that as long as you have good coverage from the embossing pad to begin with, the glitter will adhere easily the sticky surface.  I also know the Sticky Embossing Powder holds the glitter better than plain white glue with a lot less mess.

Add glittered leaves to wreath with a bit of Glossy Accents. 
NOTE: there are no glittered leaves under the top right and bottom right wreath leaves.  The top with be covered with a ribbon and the bottom is not necessary.

Assembling the tag:

Cut a piece of Mirrored (2 x 2”).  Peel off backing to adhere to tag.  Peel off protective top coating to reveal the mirrored surface.  I purposely took this shot with the camera showing so you can see that it is really like a mirror (you can also die cut this stuff!).

Adhere 3-d Pop-it shapes under wreath.  Add wreath to tag over Mirrored surface.

Clip the glittered pine branch in half and ink two other elements from the Festive Greenery decorative strip.

Layer the elements above and below the wreath with a bit of Glossy Accents.

Create a bow using Crinkle Ribbon and Distress stains Spun Sugar and a hint of Frayed Burlap. 
Begin by spritzing Crinkle Ribbon with a Mini Mister to keep in place on the non-stick craft sheet.  Pounce Spun Sugar onto ribbon (keep turning ribbon over to get all sides).  Using the same method, add Frayed Burlap (just a bit) to give the ribbon an aged appearance.  Spritz with water again, then dry with a Heat Tool.  Once dry, create bow (the tails are folded back and glued underneath).

Add bow to wreath a little to the right of center.

Hold on...just a few more steps!

Cut the last 2 1/2” x 12 manilla paper in half (or rip it...it doesn’t matter).  Use your Vagabond machine to cut out two “joy to the world” sayings from the stacked words: christmas decorative strip.

You need two because you are going to cut the words apart.  The bottom of the ‘y’ and the top of the ‘e’ are connected so from one you will cut the word “Joy” and from the other you will cut, “to the world”.  Discard leftover pieces.

Be sure to add the dot at the top of the J with a piece of 1/8” Wonder Tape.

Lightly ink the edges of the words with Vintage Photo Distress Ink.  Add Crackle Accents to the word Joy and set aside to dry.  Once dry, rub with Distress Ink to bring out crackle finish.

Cut very small pieces of Pop-it Shapes and add to the back of the word Joy.  Add to the center of wreath.

Add “to the world” to the bottom right corner.

And it just wouldn’t be me without a bit of vintage...I added a few pearls I cut from an vintage necklace

And a bit of hand dyed cheese cloth.
Paper String tied at the top completes the tag.

Sizzix, Tim Holtz, Bigz Die, Holiday Wreath	Sizzix, Tim Holtz Texture Fades Embossing Folders, Textured Poinsettia Pattern	Sizzix, Tim Holtz, Sizzlits Decorative Strip Die, Festive Greenery	Tim Holtz, Grungepaper, 6"x12"
Tim Holtz Mirrored	Tim Holtz, Crinkle Ribbon	Tim Holtz, Paper String, Solids	Inkssentials Surfaces, Manila Tag #8
Inkssentials Surfaces, 12x12 Manila	Distress Stain, Spun Sugar	Distress Stain, Frayed Burlap	Metallic Distress Stain, Tarnished Brass
Stickles Dry Fine Glitter, Platinum	Sticky Embossing Powder, 1 oz.	Perfect Pearls, Heirloom Gold	Accents, Crackle
Wonder Tape, 1/8"	Emboss It Ink Pad, Clear	Distress Ink Pad, Vintage Photo	Ink Blending Tool
Non-Stick Craft Sheet	Collage Glue Stick	Mini Mister, Individual	Heat It Craft Tool

InLinkz.com

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Please join us in thanking Paula for this exquisite beauty! Leave your comment below to be eligible for the random drawing of the $25 gift certificate to our store
www.ellenhutson.com - be certain to do so before noon on December 13th to be eligible (one comment per person please.) Thank you for joining us here again today and don't forget to share the tags you create after being inspired by our 12 Tags series and link them in the post above!

12 Tags of Christmas with a Feminine Twist 2012 - Day 8 by Kelly Alvarez

When I first met Kelly Marie at CHA last winter her smile just warmed my heart! Kindness and warmth exude from within her. It has been such a pleasure to bring her stamps in to our store as you can see her character in the sweet images presented in the Lawn Fawn line of stamps and papers! We look forwards to the arrival of the new Valentine sets any day now so be certain to watch the new stamp section in the store.

It is no small wonder that Zooey Deschanel selected Lawn Fawn Critters Ever After stamps as one of her favorite gifts! Congratulations Kelly Marie and Mike on creating such a wonderful line of stamps!

We are absolutely thrilled that Kelly has joined us for our tag series this year! You can find more of her work on her Lawn Fawn blog and you can find the entire selection of Lawn Fawn stamps and papers here in our store.

Thank you so very much for joining in the fun this year Kelly Marie - every detail of your tag speaks sweet femininity!!

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I stamped Lawn Fawn's Sweet Christmas on Ellen's awesome watercolor paper in Versamark and heat embossed in white to make water coloring easy!
 

I scribbled Distress Markers on an acrylic block and used a brush dipped in water to color in my heat embossed gingerbread house.
 

To get a brighter red for the candy canes I tapped the barn door Distress Ink pad on the acrylic block and used that to water color, also! This is such a fun way to get a really feminine look.
 

I decided to use a white gel pen to make the whites of the candy canes even whiter. It really makes them pop! I love doing this with the white areas of a stamped image.
 

I repeated the process with the gum drops from Sweet Christmas and snowflakes from Frosties.
 

I covered a tag with some Fa-La-La papers and punched a hole in the center.
 

I heat embossed the sentiment from Let it Snow and covered the whole strip in that same water color method to coordinate with the rest of the tag. I then flagged the ends to add a little interest.

I punched a hole in my snowflake to create a cute cover for my hole. I then layered some white card stock that I cut curvy lines in to get that snow bank feel. Adding some foam adhesive to the layers really gives dimension, too!
 

After I adhered all of my pieces together I rounded the corners of the bottom part of the tag to go along with the soft feel of the tag. I added star dust Stickles to the snow banks, rock candy Stickles to the gum drops and Glossy Accents to the heart. I used a paint brush for the last two since the areas are so small.
 

I then threaded some peppermint Lawn Trimmings through the hole, and it was done! I had such a blast with Ellen's feminine twist on tags! Thank you so much for having me, Ellen! -Kelly

Lawn Fawn Clear Stamps, Sweet Christmas	Lawn Fawn Clear Stamps, Let it Snow	Lawn Fawn Clear Stamps, Frosties	Inkssentials Surfaces, Kraft Tag #8
Lawn Fawn Petite Paper Pack, Fa-La-La	Essentials by Ellen, Jennifer's Watercolor Paper, 10pc-6x9	A Cardstock, Neenah Classic Crest Solar White, 25 pack	VersaMark Inkpad
Distress Ink Pad, Barn Door	Distress Marker, Broken China	Distress Marker, Mustard Seed	Distress Marker, Tumbled Glass
Distress Marker, Worn Lipstick	White Embossing Powder	Lawn Fawn Hemp Cord, Single Spool Peppermint	Crop-a-Dile Corner Chomper Tool
Stickles, Star Dust	Distressed Stickles, Rock Candy	Accents, Glossy	Uni-ball Impact Gel Pen, White
Studio Artist Brushes

InLinkz.com

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Please help us say thank you to Kelly for joining us and sharing how to create this very sweet and feminine tag! Simply leave your comment below and you will be eligible for the random drawing of the $25 gift certificate to our store www.ellenhutson.com. Leave your comment before noon on December 13th to be eligible (one comment per person please.) Be certain to return again tomorrow for Day 9 of our feminine tags as Paula Cheney joins us again to share yet another stunning and beautifully detailed tag! 

12 Tags of Christmas with a Feminine Twist 2012 - Day 7 by Julia Stainton

Welcome back to the CLASSroom and another tag from our 12 Tags of Christmas with a Feminine Twist series. Today we're more than halfway through the series and I'm excited to be sharing a tag creation with you.

 

My Peace Snowflake tag features lots of holiday sparkle and some very easy techniques. Let's get started!

For my tag base, I've created a textural and shimmery embossed tag. I love how the color changes as it turns in the light.

1. Emboss the manila tag using a snowflake embossing folder and a Big Shot machine.

2. Color the tag by swiping it with a Distress Stain Dabber. I just drag the sponge end across the tag allowing the color to hit the higher embossed areas. Dry with a heat gun to speed up the process.

3. Rub a Versamark Inkpad across the surface of the tag. Sprinkle with Holographic Embossing Powder. Apply heat with heat gun until the embossing powder is melted.

Next steps are to create a pretty embellishment using a die.

4. Die cut the Snowflake Rosette Strip die from a sheet of patterned paper.

5. Pleat the snowflake in an accordian fold. Adhere ends together with dry adhesive.

6. Flatten snowflake out and adhere to scrap paper.

7. Adhere snowflake applique. Insert trinket pins.

8. Apply stickles along pleats to add glitter.

9. Adhere loops of tinsel trim behind embellishment.

10. Adhere to tag.

11.Dab Distress Stain onto Peace chipboard sentiment. Dry with heat gun.

12. Coat chipboard with Versamark ink and sprinkle with Holographic Embossing Powder.

13. Heat embossing powder to finish the shimmery surface.

14. Adhere to bottom of tag.

15. Adhere lace to bottom of tag.

16. Loop twine through top of tag.

It's done! Sparkly and pretty without being too over the top.

Hope you're enjoying each day of the 12 Tags of Christmas! Happy holidays and happy creating! 

InLinkz.com

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We are so fortunate to have Julia here in the CLASSroom sharing her inspired ideas with us on a constant basis - thank you for sharing your creativity with us! Please help us thank Julia for this stunning, sparkly goodness by leaving your appreciation below in the comment section. Leave your comment below to be eligible for the random drawing of the $25 gift certificate to our store www.ellenhutson.com - be certain to do so before noon on December 13th to be eligible (one comment per person please.) Be certain to return tomorrow to "fawn" over the oh, so cute tag a special lady has prepared for you!

12 Tags of Christmas with a Feminine Twist 2012 - Day 5 by Kittie Caracciolo

Who better to share a fabulous scene tag than Kittie Caracciolo :-D The magic she works with diecuts is unmatched and if you have not yet found her blog from previous projects she has shared here in the CLASSroom you must run right over to her blog Kittie Krafts and see more of the beautiful scenes she shares on an almost daily basis!

Welcome Kittie! Once again a huge thanks to you for sharing how to create one of your magical scenes with our readers - this beautiful tag is a gift in and of itself!

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Hello and welcome to the 5th day of 12 Tags of Christmas with a Feminine Twist. I am so happy and honored to have been invited back as a guest to take part in this fun event.

 
I love making scenes with dies and especially for Christmas projects. I chose to create something soft, feminine and sparkly using the Deer Trio and Tree die. The white images against the soft blue background are so perfectly serene.

I think a picture speaks a thousand words so most of my photos will tell the story without me rambling with lots of details.
 

Cover the tag with designer paper and trim the top corners.
 

Cut the snow layers and crimp to add texture. I like adding at least three layers.  

Apply adhesive to the bottom of each snow layer and attach to the base. The top portion of the layers need to be left free to tuck the images in behind.
 

Apply adhesive to the bottom tree trunk and a few rolled glue dots to the top trunk so it can be held in place but look free from the background. 

Hint….I like using tiny rolled up Glue Dots instead of mounting tape to secure delicate pieces like branches and foliage. I keep the 1/8”, 3/16” and 3/8” on hand all the time.  I pick the dot up off the roll using the pointed tip of my paper piercer and gently roll the ball. I don’t handle it too much as the oil from my fingers can ruin the stickiness. If I need adhesive to pop up a really thin piece like the tips of the branches I roll the dot into a thin line of adhesive. This method works great even with the tiny 1/8” dot.

 

Cut the deer apart, apply adhesive and tuck in behind the snow layers. I rolled a few glue dots and attached to the back of the larger deer to secure them to the snow layer but still let them stand free.

Apply glossy accents to the bottom stem of the pine pieces and tuck them behind the snow layers and around the deer to soften the scene. I use my paper piercer to scoot the pine down into place.

Before moving on let me say that a smart person would have applied all the glitter before building the scene. Duh!! That sheds a little light on me. LOL!
 

Lightly apply glossy accents to the image. Do small areas at a time as the glue dries fairly quickly. 

Slather it around with your finger. Hint…. keep baby wipes close by.
 

Lightly sprinkle glitter over the glued area, turn the tag over and shake off excess. Repeat until you are happy. I love lots of glitter and get into the “I can’t stop” mode every time I play with it.
 

I hope my sparkly and nature inspired snowy scene tag has inspired you to get out your dies, a tag and some glitter and give this a try.

InLinkz.com

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Please help us thank Kittie for her sparkly, yet serene, beautiful winer scene, as well as for the many tutorials she has shared on her blog! Leave your comment below to be eligible for the random drawing of the $25 gift certificate to our store www.ellenhutson.com - be certain to do so before noon on December 13th to be eligible (one comment per person please.) Thank you for joining us here again today and don't forget to share the tags you create after being inspired by our 12 Tags series and link them in the post above!

12 Tags of Christmas with a Feminine Twist 2012 - Day 4 by Jennifer McGuire

Are you enjoying this series as much as I am? I cannot begin to express my thanks to the wonderful women who are participating in this year's series of tags. Today's guest designer, Jennifer McGuire, needs very little as way of introduction as I know you all know and love her as much as I do. Not only is this lovely lady clever, but she is kind and generous. It is with much affection that today I share with you the amazing talents of my friend Jennifer McGuire. If perchance you haven't already marked her blog you can find it at Jennifer McGuire Ink AND if you have not yet had a chance to take one of the classes she co-teaches with Kristina Werner on their site Online Card Classes you are missing out on some very well-done education!

When Jennifer offered to create a video showcasing today's technique I was over the moon excited to share it with you! Today she uses her magical touch on Tim Holtz Mirrored product - I already have envisioned a bobble-glass ornament wreath using this technique after watching this video!

Thank you Jennifer for your constant support, friendship and the absolutely stunning tag and technique you shared with us today!

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The dimension in this glorious tag was created by stamping with white Staz-On on clear plastic and then mounting with foam dimensionals to create depth. The Mirrored die cuts were colored with Copic markers to add texture and color. Be certain to watch the video that Jennifer has created especially for us!

 

Sizzix, Tim Holtz, Movers & Shapers Magnetic Die, Tag & Bookplates	Sizzix, Tim Holtz, Bigz Die, Caged Bird	Sizzix, Tim Holtz, Movers & Shapers Magnetic Die, Mini Snowflakes Set	Sizzix, Tim Holtz, Movers & Shapers Magnetic Die, Ornamental
Tim Holtz Mirrored	Cleardesign: Bring on the Merry	Stampers Anonymous Classics, Classics 9	StazOn Opaque Ink, Cotton White Set
NEW Archival Ink Pad, Jet Black	Distress Ink Pad, Evergreen Bough	COPIC Sketch Marker BG49, Duck Blue	COPIC Sketch Marker T3, Toner Gray #3
COPIC Sketch Marker T5, Toner Gray #5	COPIC Sketch Marker T7, Toner Gray No.7	COPIC Sketch Marker E79, Cashew	COPIC Sketch Marker YG09, Lettuce Green
COPIC Sketch Marker RV17, Deep Magenta	Tim Holtz Tinsel Twine, Silver	Gemstones, Smooth Clear Round	Gemstones, Black Pearl Crystals
High Tack Double-Sided Foam Mounting Tape, 1/4"	Ink Blending Tool	Non-Stick Craft Sheet	Non-stick Micro Serrated Scissors
Fiskars Compact Stamp Press	Retractable Craft Knife	Vagabond Cutting Machine by Tim Holtz

InLinkz.com

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Please help us say thank you to Jennifer for joining us and sharing this fabulous video as she teaches us an over-the-top way to enhance the Mirrored product! Simply leave
your comment below and you will be eligible for the random drawing of the $25
gift certificate to our store www.ellenhutson.com. Leave your comment
before noon on December 13th to be eligible (one comment per person please.) We look forward to "sceneing" you tomorrow ;-D

Hello, Monday, 12.03.2012

Hello, Monday was on hiatus last week due to my class schedule, but we're back again today with an easy holiday project! As well be certain to scroll down for Day 3 in our 12 Tags of Christmas series!

I've always thought Christmas Crackers to be such a cute and fun tradition for the holidays! Everyone at the table will be charmed by these delightful  decorations, filled with trinkets and candies!

I'm smitten with red, white and kraft this holiday season, so I chose to create my crepe paper "ruffle" using a gorgeous shade of red--Barn Door Distress Stain by Ranger!

This was so easy, I could make yard and yards of it in advance to keep on hand for embellishing my packagins and cards and I think it would make a darling trim on tree ornaments, as well!

Enjoy the video here or in HD on YouTube, and please subscribe to our channel for future Hello, Monday webisodes!

Happy Holidays and thank you for joining me in the CLASSroom today!

 

SUPPLIES & MATERIALS:

 

Crepe Paper, White & Cream	Cleardesign: Designer Snowflakes	Distress Stain, Barn Door	Distress Ink Pad, Barn Door
Maya Road Twine Cording, Sparkle Silver	A1 Cardstock, Neenah Classic Crest Natural White, 25 pack	Heat It Craft Tool	3D-Dots, 1/16" Thick
Glue Glider Pro	Glue Glider Pro Plus Refill, High Tac 58'	Non-Stick Craft Sheet

InLinkz.com

12 Tags of Christmas with a Feminine Twist 2012 - Day 3 by Julie Ebersole

I finished my tag, and then hesitated... it's not necessarily "feminine". But, it's not necessarily "masculine" either! *chuckle*

I may not know which way to classify it, but I LOVE LOVE LOVE how it turned out and it's totally ME!!! Hah!

My tag features a "shaker" glassine envelope and some whimsical stamps by Savvy!



After stamping the greeting on a piece of Solar White that was cut to fit inside the envelope, I die cut some snowflakes from Natural White card stock and set them aside--initially, I was planning to put them inside, but they were a tad too large and obliterated the greeting too much, so I reserved them and moved on.

Confetti has been popular in the paper crafts world lately, and I'm rather keen on it myself, so I punched a bunch of small circles (mostly 1/8" and 1/4" size) from some Natural white, aqua and red card stocks to slip into the envelope--they made perfect filler and were small enough to allow the words to be seen easily.


Made my own custom striped paper by cutting some aqua colored card stock into 1" strips the same width as my base tag, which is made from Natural White and glued them into place.

After angle-punching the corners, I also made a "reinforcer" from red card stock for some contrast and glued that into place on the tag.

The Sweater Mittens by Savvy are so cute--white embossed those on red card stock very quickly and cut them out and 3D mounted them onto the tag

Added one of those snowflake die cuts and some velvet ribbon--I love how MOD it turned out!

So fun and festive! Love this color combo for the Holidays, too!

Thanks for joining me today--I hope you are getting in some crafty time this Holiday season!

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SUPPLIES & MATERIALS:

 

Savvy Stamps, Sweater Mittens	Savvy Stamps, Warm Holiday Wishes	NEW Archival Ink Pad, Vermillion	Paper Accents Glassine Envelopes, 1.75 x 2.75
A Cardstock, Neenah Classic Crest Solar White, 25 pack	A Cardstock, Neenah Classic Crest Solar White, Ream	A1 Cardstock, Neenah Classic Crest Natural White, 25 pack	A1 Cardstock, Neenah Classic Crest Natural White, Ream
Core'dinations Cardstock, Adirondack Collection	Sizzix Big Shot Machine, Black & Pink	Glue Glider Pro Plus Refill, High Tac 58'	Glue Glider Pro
EK Success Paper Shapers 1/2-inch Circle Punch	Velvet Ribbon, Red	My Favorite Things Die-namics, Let It Snowflake	Sew Easy Baker's Twine, Red
Crop-a-Dile Corner Chomper Tool, Angle & Photo Corner	Paper Trimmer, Tonic Guillotine 8 1/2"	Crop-A-Dile Eyelet & Snap Punch	Tweezers, Stainless

InLinkz.com

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Please help us thank Julie today for everything she has shared with us over this past year and for once again bringing a gigantic smile to our day with this oh, so sweet feminine tag! And yes, Jules - it is feminine in an a fabulous crisp way - it speaks of a glorious Ann Taylor style in a wonderful way!! :-D Leave your comment below to be eligible for the random drawing of the $25 gift certificate to our store www.ellenhutson.com - be certain to do so before noon on December 13th to be eligible (one comment per person please.) Tomorrow we have a gigantic surprise as the absolutely lovely lady who created a stunning tag also included a video :-D

Nautical Party by Krystie Hersch

Welcome to the CLASSroom!  It's that time of year for beach trips and afternoons by the pool, I guess that's what put me in a nautical mood when I was putting together this party set!  The nautical theme is very versatile.  This set could be used for a baby shower, toddler's birthday, or a pool party.

I kept a consistent look by using the Savvy Wave Background stamp and Lawn Fawn sentiments on all of my projects. 

Let's start with the toy boat invitation.   I die cut 2 - 2" circles, cut them to the desired size, and added white eyelets.  For the sail, I used a little snip of canvas and some orange striped paper.  

One finishing touch I added was to run a coordinating Copic color along the edge of each piece.  It just gave it that little something.

I adhered the pieces to the card, leaving the edges of the canvas a bit curly.  I liked the dimension and texture.  A bit of hemp cord served as the mast.

Now for the little milk carton party favor.  After I die cut the carton, I added the wave background.  It was the perfect length for two squares, so I didn't have to worry about matching edges.  Note, I also punched a hole with my Crop-A-Dile before I assembled the box.

I found that the easiest way to assemble was by starting at the top and working down.  Fill the bottom with treats and seal it up!

This die set also includes three circles and a label die.  I used the largest and smallest circles to create my life preserver.  I used the same orange stripe paper, and then made another ring in white for the details on the ring.  As I did with the boat pieces, I ran a Copic marker around the edge of the ring.

To make the swallowtail flag detail, just put the edge in a square punch.

Assemble your flag on a lollipop stick and add a little hemp cord rope detail to your ring.

Cute and easy party favors!  Sidenote:  Can you guess what my kids' swim teachers are getting as gifts this year?  ;)

Finally, I made a thank you note to send after the party.  

I love these little dies.  You could carry this theme further by using the hemp cord and these dies to create wineglass charms, tie napkin rolls closed, etc.  

This is my favorite cord, it's really soft and malleable, and there aren't any of those "wild hairs" that some twine have.  I found it easiest to adhere the charms first.  Then I was able to thread and knot the hemp cord where I liked it.

I hope you've enjoyed this projects, thanks for visiting the CLASSroom today!

STAMPS:  Wave Background by Savvy, Sophie's Sentiments by Lawn Fawn

DIES:  Milk Carton by Lifestyle Crafts, Sizzix Framelits Dies, Circles, My Favorite Things Die-Namics, Sea Charms

TOOLS:  Crop-A-Dile, 3/4 Square Punch

PAPER:  Memory Box Robin's Egg, Dots and Stripes Paper by Echo Park, Neenah Desert Storm cardstock, Neenah Solar White

INK:  Memento Tuxedo Black, Archival Ink Viridian, Copics: YR02, YR21, E55, E41, BG10

EMBELLISHMENTS:  Lawn Fawn Hemp Cord Neutral, Canvas, American Crafts Mini Eyelets

VIDEO: Fun with Glassine Envelopes by Julie Ebersole

I've been playing with Glassine Envelopes lately and today I thought I'd share some fun things I've made with them!

Glassine is akin to wax paper, very thin, smooth and translucent. Although not water proof, it is considerably water (and air) resistant and small envelopes made from glassine have long been used to organize, preserve and archive items such as collectible postage stamps, fragile insect specimens, garden seeds, etc. Glassine bags and paper are also frequently used in the food service industry, and you'll often see it used to wrap baked goods because it is also grease resistant.  Additionally, glassine is a biodegradable material, so it can be recycled or composted!

There are so many uses for these adorable little envelopes! I love using the 1 3/4 x 2 3/4" size to create little translucent shaker effects, like shown on this birthday design:

(stamp credit: Savvy Stamps)

Just stamp a piece of card stock that's sized to slip into the envelope, tuck it in first, then add a sprinkle of shapes punched from colorful card stock, making sure it falls on the stamped side that will show on the card front. Seal the envelope shut and mount it to your card front and you have a super quick and easy shaker card effect!

It's fun to let your card design show thru the envelope, and decorate the ouside, as I did here with some fun Cakewalk "Numbers" Washi Tape by October Afternoon:

(stamp credits: Savvy Stamps [cake] and Hero Arts [cake and ice cream])

Make a little stack of these to keep handy for those last minute card-giving emergencies!

They are also irresistible for gift presentation and I love to package them with little goodies, as shown in this sample:

I have a video to accompany the treat "bag" shown above! I actually stamped on the envelope prior to embellishing it and also created custom tinted ribbon match as I didn't have any in the color I wanted for this sweet thang--you could tuck a small gift or edible goodie inside--ooh, some tea bags in a delicious flavor would be nice! Wouldn't they make darling party favors?  Enjoy!

BTW, I am constantly asked where folks can get the tweezers I use in my work. You can get them HERE.

 

TIPS FOR STAMPING ON GLASSINE:

• Use an ink designed for non-porous surfaces, i.e. Staz-On and Brilliance by Tsukineko are my go-to inks for slick surfaces such as glassine
• When creating a random pattern, start your stamping towards the center and work your way out; if using a variety of image sizes, begin with your largest images, then fill the gaps with the smaller images where they fit best
• If embossing, be aware of areas that may be folded or bent, the embossing may crack on the fold line and flake off; mask off those areas prior to stamping to eliminate this as much as possible
• Glassine is not designed to withstand the high heat temperature required for thermal embossing; pre-heat your heat tool, and be prepared to move the heat tool in and back out again quickly. Bring the heat tool in just close enough to melt the powder and do not linger long in any one spot to avoid scorching!

Thanks for hangin' with me in the CLASSroom today!

SUPPLIES & MATERIALS FEATURED IN TREAT BAG/FAVOR & VIDEO:

STAMPS:  Hero Arts Cling Birthday Set, Hero Arts/Basic Grey Let Them Eat Cake Clear Set; Hero Arts Cling Dot Flower Background

INKS: Hero Arts Soft Pool; Staz-on Cotton White; Archival Coffee; Copic Marker in R21 Sardonyx; Versamark (for thermal embossing)

PAPERS: Basic Grey Paper Cottage 6x6 Pad; Glassine Envelope 3 1/2 x 3 1/2"; Neenah Desert Storm (25 sheet or ream)

EMBELLISHMENTS: [flat seam binding ribbon] Tim Holtz Trimmings in Lavish White

TOOLS: Big Shot Personal Die Cutting Machine; [Die] Hero Arts Message Frames Stamp & Die Set; 3/4" Square Punch, 1 1/2" Circle Punch; Tweezers (my favoritest!!!); Non-stick Craft Sheet

OTHER: 3D Dots; Ranger Super Fine Gold Embossing Powder

This One's For The Boys - by Julie Ebersole

I like to make things for my guys; being the "burly men" that they are, however, I gotta watch it with the frills and lace. ;)  To the rescue:  Patterned Heart by Hero Arts!!!

And, a super fun rectangle box die that you can fill with chocolates! I'm seriously in love with all the box dies by Lifestyle Crafts!!! So easy and fun for making little boxes!

For this die, I like to use a little thicker card stock, and Memory Box Kraft works wonderfully!  Plus, I think the color and texture works well for the look I was going for.

After die cutting, I stamped the heart with Snow Cap, but I didn't emboss it; it's hard to fold something when you emboss it over a fold line without cracking, so I left it unembossed. It shows up very well on the box in Snow Cap and I love the look, besides!

For box assembly, I love Be Creative Tape; it has all the properties of red liner tape (industrial hold, heat resistance, etc.) BUT, it does have one advantage you may or may not be aware of:  You can tear it easily with your fingers because the liner paper is paper, not plastic.  With red liner tape, you have to cut through it with scissors.  That's not a bad thing, it's just an added step.

I'm always lookin' for a short cut, tho, so I usually use Be Creative Tape when I just wanna rip & go! LOL!

After white embossing "just for you" from the All Occasions Messages Set on a scrap strip of red card stock, I set a silver eyelet through it with my Crop-a-Dile. Wrapped some baker's twine around the box a couple times, knotted it, and then used a dental floss threader to pull the ends up through the eyelet, so I could tie a bow and secure the tag to the box.

After finishing the box, I had some leftover Kraft card stock that was the perfect size for a little card, so I stamped the heart again onto it and added some red alpha stickers, spelling out "love".

I wanted a black chipboard letter "U", so I pressed the front side of one from the little Mini William Set by Maya Road into my Brilliance Graphite Black Pad, and then dunked it into some clear embossing powder.

Lifted it out with tweezers and set it on my Craft Sheet and heat embossed it.  I used the tweezers to keep it from getting blown off, but not burn my fingers.  You'll also note that I wrapped a piece of scrap card board with foil and put that under my Craft Sheet while I was embossing.  This was just to protect my cutting mat, which would have warped if I applied heat for too long so close to it. Ask me how I know . . .

Glued the letter on with Mono-Multi, wrapped more twine and knotted it, and look at my glossy little "u"!  Perfect!

I also rounded the upper right corner of the card using the 3/8" Radius Punch, which seemed to look good on a card this size.

Together, I think think the box (stuffed with the right treat, of course, LOL!) and card will be a winning combo with my men-folk!  What do you think?

Thanks for poppin' in today!

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Supplies:
Stamps: Hero Arts Patterned Heart, Hero Arts Cleardesign All Occasion Messages Set

Ink:  Adirondack Snow Cap White (pigment), Brilliance Graphite Black, Versamark

Paper: Memory Box Kraft Card Stock

Tools:  Lifestyle Crafts Rectangle Box Die, Big Shot Die Cutting Machine, Heat Tool, Radius Corner Chomper (3/8"), Crop-a-dile, Non-stick Craft Sheet

Embellishments:  Baker's Twine (Slate), Silver Eyelet (from my stash), Red Tiny Type Alphabet Stickers by Cosmo Cricket, Mini William Chipboard Alphabet by Maya Road

Other:  Clear Embossing Powder, White Embossing Powder, Be Creative Tape (1/4"), Mono-Multi Glue

Faux Dry Embossing With Die Cuts by Sharon Harnist

Welcome to the CLASSroom today!  Do you ever need a quick hostess, anniversary, house warming, holiday or birthday gift and opt for the traditional bottle of wine?  Or maybe even a flavor-infused bottle of olive oil for for the culinary inclined?  Then I have a nice gift tag option for you today, using a faux dry embossing technique!

          (click on any photo for a larger view)

To make the process easy, I started with a standard #8 shipping tag -- Tim Holtz’s new kraft tag -- I'm loving these!  Next, die cut or punch a 1-3/8” to 1-1/2” circle in the top of the tag (over and removing the tag’s reinforced hole).

Then I scored underneath the die cut hole, about 2 inches from the top of the tag:

Next, I die cut several leaves using Tim Holtz’s Tattered Leaves and Memory Box’s Maple Leaf dies out of the same kraft tag and adhered them to my tag.  Trim off any shapes that hang over the edge of the tag:  

You could then just leave the leaves as is and use them as a background for any kind of project or card, or to make them stand out a little, you could sponge some Distress Ink around the edges of the leaves, to help highlight them a bit:

Or I opted to sponge Versamark Champagne Dazzle ink over my leaves, to give them an elegant sparkle:

Next, I stamped my sentiment with Memento Tuxedo Black ink onto Memory Box Concord Grape cardstock and cut it into a banner shape.  I secured the sentiment to the tag with a Hinge Clip tied with lilac twine.  To add a little more color to my tag, I backed it with more Concord Grape cardstock and die cut the lower edge with Tim Holtz's On The Edge-Scalloped die.

I hope you’ll give this faux dry embossed look a try with your favorite dies!  ~ Sharon

Stamps: Hero Arts ClearDesign-Truly Appreciated; 3” x 4” Acrylic Block;
Dies & Tools: Sizzix Tim Holtz Bigz Die-Tattered Leaves and On The Edge-Scallops; Memory Box Maple Leaf die; Scor-It Mini Scoring Board;
Paper: Ranger Inkssentials #8 Kraft Tag; Memory Box Concord Grape cardstock
Ink: Tsukineko Memento Tuxedo Black and Versamark Champagne Dazzle; Ranger Tim Holtz Old Paper Distress Ink
Accessories: Tim Holtz Hinge Clips; Ranger Ink Blending Tool; We R Memory Keepers Secondary Twine (lilac); 

Maribelle Butterfly and Vintage Netting

Are you ready for yet another Maribelle butterfly die idea? I hope so, because as I said a few days ago my mind has been "fluttering" around with all sorts of them :-D

 

Pairing this delicate beauty with Vintage Netting creates an oh, so, elegant look!

 

Begin by cutting the Maribelle butterfly out of Glossy Black cardstock.

Working on the non-stick craft sheet makes the next part of the project a LOT easier!

Carefully apply Fabritac glue to the larger portions of the body and also apply to the veining. Be very careful not to move the butterfly as you work, so that the glue does not transfer to the front side. You can also apply the glue to smaller areas using a toothpick. Pick the butterfly body straight up and then flip it over on to the netting, pressing it firmly in place. The beauty of the non-stick craft sheet is that it will allow you to easily lift the entire piece up once this task is complete. Then allow it to sit and dry.

 

Cut the netting around the edges of the body as shown.
 

This beauty would be lovely atop a gift or make a bunch and create a mobile!

 
stamps: Hero Arts Anytime Messages

ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

paper: Glossy Black Cardstock, Basic Grey Out of Print, Neenah Solar White, Inkssentials Manila

accessories: Maribelle Butterfly Die, Pastry Labels Die, Tag & Bookplates Die, Webster's Pages Vintage Netting II, Fabritac Adhesive, Gold Silk Ribbon, Antique Silver Reinforcer

Creating a Strawberry Blossom and Gift Packaging

Don't forget that today is the start of our Mother's Day Sale - for more details please visit the home page of our store.

I love red, ripe strawberries - SO delicious! Naturally when I say the new Sizzix Scoreboard die I had to have it. Can you imagine this little lovely filled with chocolate covered fruit (or chocolate covered anything :-D)? Perhaps you could use it as a placecard holder or a few of these scattered down your table to create a juicy centerpiece! Oh the options abound!

I realize that many of you probably do not have the Sizzix Big Shot Pro so we have created a special packet of diecut strawberries for those who may want to replicate today's project. These are in limited supply, so get yours now if you are interested.

 
Immediately the Lilybee Tomato Stationery paper popped into my mind as being THE PERFECT selection for this project! Top it off with a Memory Box Key Lime Gingham and we have a delicious little treat box!

 

Fold the box along the score lines, using a piece of Be Creative Sookwang tape to attach the flap.

 

Thread a piece of Distress Stained Everyday Ribbon through the holes as shown.
 

Pull the ribbon to close the flaps. I inserted the end ribbon back through the same hole as the first ribbon as shown above.

 

Insert the ribbon through the "hull" (leaves) and tie.

 

Susan Tierney Cockburn has been a wonderful inspiration and teacher. The techniques that I have used to create this strawberry blossom are all well defined in her books the Paper Garden and Paper Bouquet, as well as in this video series we created. Just a quick little aside - Susan is also a fabulous baker- you must visit her blog to satisfy your sweet tooth! Be certain to leave her some love in her comments section :-D 

I was on my own for this strawberry blossom as Susan has not yet created an example of this flower, so I did what all good students do... I googled - ha, ha! I needed to learn what a a real strawberry blossom looks like :-D I decided that the Begonia punch petals looked quite similar, so I used the largest size petal for this project. After taking the photo above I realized that I wanted the tips of the petals to be a little "smoother" and so I snipped off a couple of the bumps.

I discovered that most strawberry blossoms are white, BUT there were a few with hints of pink and so I printed off a picture to inspire my color selections. Using Copic R000 and RV11, together with PITT Pastel Pencil #193 I was able to emulate the natural colors.

 

To create the pistil and receptacle (yes, I googled for that information as well - LOL!) I used the Big Sky Flake punch. Use Y000 and YG00 to color the pistil. Snip the short projections just above the first ball shape and the long projections at the base. Reattach the long projections to the base as shown above using a large glue dot. Attach a whimsy button to replicate the receptacle and little Sunshine Yellow Flower Soft for realism.

 

This little blossom suits the strawberry box to a "T." Twirl a little wire through the ribbon base to bring it all together and serve up a red, ripe strawberry to someone special!
 
ink: Copic Markers - R000, RV11, Y000 and YG00; Peeled Paint Distress Stain

paper: Precut Strawberry Box Packet, Memory Box Key Lime Gingham Cardstock, Lilybee Designs Tomato Stationery

accessories: Sizzix Pro Strawberry Box, Punch Bunch Mega Big Sky Snowflake, Super Giant Begonia Petals, 1/2" Everyday Ribbon, Sparkler Button, Cloth Covered Wire, Sunshine Yellow Flower Soft, Be Creative Sookwang 1/2" Tape

Once Upon a Springtime Treat Wrapper by Becky Olsen

I am so ready for Spring, and with snow falling on my hyacinth and daffodils it seems that a Springtime made from paper might be all I have for a few more weeks. I love decorating for this season with brighter colors and the Once Upon a Springtime line from Graphic 45 delivers loads of inspiration with gorgeous images and fresh colors. With this delightful inspiration in hand I thought it would be fun to create treat wrappers that could be used as place cards for a more formal event or made in many different sizes that could be hidden about when it is time to hunt for the goodies that a certain celebrity bunny might have left lying around the yard. (hopefully not covered in snow!)

To begin cut a piece of Melissa Frances Cream Crepe Paper at 10" x 5" and placed a piece of 1/4" double sided Be Creative tape along the center of one edge that is about 2" from each of the ends.

Remove the protective backing from the tape and and carefully adhere to the other end forming a tube. I tied it with some simple garden twine, but it would be stunning with most any of the gorgeous May Arts silk ribbons, or you could use the white silk ribbon and use Copic Marker refill ink to die a unique color.Trim the ends of the crepe paper to have a little fringe if you like.

Now that the end is tied up you can fill with most any kind of treat or surprise that suits your whim. Tie up the other end and then trim.

Now is the fun part, decorating the outside of the wrap! I cut a piece of Primrose Cottage at 4" x 5" and adhered it around with another piece of the 1/4" Be Creative double sided tape. I then cut a piece of Tiny Treasures at 2" x 5" and adhered it the same way. A piece of Neenah Classic Cream card stock was stamped with the images from the Hampton Art Once Upon a Springtime Cling set 2. First the postage in Antique Linen and then the sweet rabbit in Walnut Stain Distress ink.

The rabbit was then colored with a few various Copic colors and then adhered to the top of the wrap. Fussy cut a few of the flowers out from the sheet of Primrose Cottage, adhere and then share a little Springtime with everyone who could use a little too.

B-

Tween Birthday... You Rock Birthday Pillow Box Ensemble

The more I try to catch up the more behind I seem to get - LOL! Friday was a very important day at our house, it was my daughter's 11th birthday. Returning from CHA late on Tuesday night it has been sheer madness trying to get things done here at work and prepare for her birthday at home. It is so important to me to create something for my girl's birthdays and so Friday was full-speed ahead here at work.

Music is something Trina loves and I knew I had to use this Hero Arts image to create her card. The little message bubble represents "Happy Birthday" being sung through the head phones :-D Isn't it CUTE!

The papers are from the new Basic Grey Lauderdale collection. It should be shipping to us soon, so watch Facebook and our new section for updates on the new products as they arrive. When I placed my order at CHA I was given a small packet of papers to work with and I just couldn't resist using them for this project. Blue is Trina's favorite color and to create this little gift ensemble was so very fun.

For something a little different I left a small space between the two patterned papers and added a row of bling. All girls love bling - right!?!

The Inkadinkado Inchie Greetings set is THE perfect size for these little captions :-D

 

To create the blonde hair that closely resembles my daughter's hair color I used Copic Y21 and Y28. Simply feather the marker strokes when coloring hair to get a more realistic look. Trina is quite fair-skinned and so I used E0000, E000, E11 and R11 for her skin tones.

Spica glitter pen was added to the stars on her vest for additional sparkle.

 

I love to find little things for the girls birthdays and I now have THE perfect solution for packaging these - Sizzix/Ellison pillow boxes!

  

They come in three sizes. The smallest can be created from your 6x6 paper pads! 

It is perfect for hair clips, bands, paper clips, candies and gum.

The next size up holds a little more and sits upright. For this box you need a strip of decorative paper/cardstock that is 6" x 12".

The largest pillow box is created from a 12"x12" sheet of decorative paper/cardstock. I found these socks in the dollar bin at Target - my girls love cute socks. Three pair of socks fit nicely in this box.

 

As you can see I was able to create a fun assortment of pillow boxes of varying sizes from the Lauderdale collection of papers. Another thing that I LOVE about Basic Grey is that many of the embellishments from previous collections coordinate beautifully with the new collections that come out. The pretty pink posies are from the old Green at Heart collection and they coordinate perfectly. So look into your old stash of buttons, brads, flowers and see what you might have that may work with the new collections. Using a yellow ribbon to tie them up created the perfect bright birthday ensemble!

It's always SO much more fun to open little gifts when they are presented in fun packages!!! For your next celebration think about creating some little gift boxes - they are so much fun AND can be reused :-D
 
stamps: Hero Arts You Rock, Inkadinkadoo Greetings Inchie Clear Stamps

ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Adirondack Dye Ink Pads - Watermelon, Citrus and Den; Copic Markers - Hair (Y21, Y28) and Skin (E0000, E000, E11, R11), Sky Blue Spica Glitter Pen

paper: Basic Grey Lauderdale (coming soon), Hero Arts Azure Cardstock

accessories: Sizzix Pillow Boxes - Small, Medium, Large; EK Sucess Photo Caption Punch and Lattice Chain Edger, Memory Box Sparkling Diamond Jewels, Green at Heart Cozy Posies, Corner Chomper

12 Days of Christmas: Day 11 - By Sharon Harnist

A new year brings a new release from Lockhart Stamp Company . . . wait until you see these darling new images!  I chose three new images and three new sentiments to share with you today:

 

These cards and tag were all created with papers from Cosmo Cricket's 6" Mini Deck-Pixie Licious . . . I thought they were a good representation of Spring and whimsy that would coordinate well with the whimsical style of Karen Lockhart's stamps.

How sweet is Bennie Bear?!!  I think he's my favorite of this new release!  Combined with this darling I'm here if you need me sentiment, I thought he would make a great encouragement card for a child or friend.  Or wonderful new baby cards!

 

I stamped Bennie on Copic's X-Press It Blending Card -- if you haven't tried this wonderful cardstock yet, you will be very pleased with how easily your Copic markers blend on it (and how easily mistakes erase/blend right off of it!).

Bennie's sweater was colored with Copic BG11 & BG72, then BG75 was added to the deepest crevices & folds of the sweater, and along the neckline of the sweater where it would naturally cast a shadow underneath the deep cable knitting:

 

COPIC TIPS: Don't be afraid to add quite a bit darker colors for shading, as it will make those areas recess and give your image a more realistic look.  Bennie was colored with E30 & E31, and E35 used for the deepest shading (in the folds where his legs meet his body, along the bottoms of his legs where light would be blocked by the tops of his legs, and under the sleeves of his sweater where the sweater would cast a shadow on his arm).

Along the same lines as adding darker color to the deepest folds of skin or clothing, keep features like Bennie's protruding nose and feet amongst the lighter colors you are using, since they are closer to you.  This will instantly make his nose appear closer to you.  Visualize where your light source is coming from -- I usually have mine coming from the upper right, as it's easier for me (being right-handed), to add darker colors over on the left side of images.  W1 & W0 were used for Bennie's cast shadow on the floor.  Using the W1 first, then softening the edges with W0, will fade the shadow along the outer edges nicely.

I finished the image by circle die cutting it.  The background was airbrushed BG11 while the image was still in the die (*See more about airbrushed background Copic Tip below).  I die cut a scalloped border from coordinating Cosmo Cricket striped paper and placed tied buttons in the centers of the scallops.

These darling Ducks will make great Easter or new baby cards, or when combined with this new Ducks in a Row sentiment, a fantastic "sorry I'm late wishing you a happy birthday" or late for anything type of card!

 
 

*COPIC TIP: On these cards I stamped my images and die cut them first, then airbrushed the backgrounds.  Then I used my Copic 0 Colorless Blender marker to remove any overspray that may have gotten on the images.  I find this is quicker than stamping and fussy cutting out a mask!

 

The ducks were colored with Y11 and shaded with Y21 and the areas receiving the most light (tops of heads & bodies) were left white.  An orangey YR21 was used for their beaks & feet.  G21 for grass & leaves and V01 for flowers.  BG11 & E31 were airbrushed for sky and ground; W1 was used for ground shadows. The image was oval die cut and is popped up on foam tape.  Crop-a-Dile's Corner Chomper was used to round the top corners of the card -- it cuts through multiple layers of cardstock and paper like butter!

This Caught A Bug? in a jar cracks me up -- and it's sure to cheer up anyone you know that may be ill!  I thought he'd make a good tag to tie onto a jar of homemade soup to share with a sick friend:

 

Bug is colored with Copic G20, G21, V01, & V05.  BG10 was used in the corners of the jar, where it would have the deepest color and BG0000 was used on the rest of the jar.  The cork was colored with E30 (lightest top of the cork), and the sides shaded with E31.  The part of the cork inside the jar was also colored with E30 & E31, then BG10 colored over it to make it darker and give it a realistic look that it's really inside the jar.

 

The image was die cut with a Labels-Lg die and popped up on foam tape over the scalloped circle tag base. 

I hope you'll take a look at the rest of this new Lockart stamp release and answer the question below, for your chance to win a fabulous Lockhart stamp package!  ~ Sharon

Stamps: Lockhart Stamp Company Bennie Bear #1011, I'm here if you need me #10080, Caught A Bug? #4006 & Caught A Bug? Sentiment #10079, Ducks #2135, Ducks in a Row #10078,
Paper: Cosmo Cricket 6" Mini Deck-Pixie Licious, Copic X-Press It Blending Card, Memory Box Lagoon notecards, 
Ink: Tsukineko Memento-Tuxedo Black,
Copic Markers: BG10, BG11, BG000, BG72, BG75, E30, E31, E35, Y11, Y21, YR21, V01, V05, G20, G21, BG10, BG000, W0, W1, 0 Colorless Blender marker, Clear Atyou Spica Glitter Pen
Acessories: Copic Airbrush System & Air Compressor, Spellbinders Labels-Lg, Oval & Classic Scalloped & Classic Circle Nestabilities, Big Scalloped Border Petites; Hero Arts Art Buttons-Spring (green) & Summer (teal), Crop-a-Dile Corner Chomper, EK Success 3D foam dots,
Other: white embroidery thread, plum satin ribbon

ETA: We are aware of the gramatical error in the newest sentiment and are happy to share with you that Karen is working on it immediately. With all things in life, little mistakes happen - the good news is that we always do work to fix them as quickly as possible. Thank you for your patience and support.

GIVEAWAY DETAILS:

On the eleventh day of Christmas my goodie box could be...

• African Violets in a Teacup
• Bennie Bear
• Caught a Bug?
• Caught a Bug? (Sentiment)
• Clear Lake Chair
• Ducks
• Ducks in a Row
• English Garden Flowers
• I'm here if you need me
• Ribbon Heart
• Lavender in a Teacup

 

To participate in this random drawing, please leave your answer to the following question as a comment to this post. Please limit yourself to one comment only for each goodie package. The last day to submit a comment to this post will be January 6th at Midnight. We will post the winners (which will be drawn using a Random Number Generator) for all twelve days on January 7th.

What is now at the top of your paper crafting wish list?  Is there a specific product or product line that you are enamoured with?  Please share in the comments section below to be entered in this random drawing!

Remember to visit the following 12 Days of Christmas blog candy drawings -- be certain to post a comment to the question on each individual post to be included in that drawing!

• One Stampin' Treasure
• Two Melting Tools
• Three Copic Goodies
• 3 Stamps + 1 Color Sampler = Four Memory Box Treats
• Five treats from Claudine's Lines
• Six Sizzix Goodies
• Seven Alterable Items
• Eight Oodles of Inchies
• Nine Packs of Paper
• Ten Toys from Tim's World

12 Tags of Christmas with a Feminine Twist - Day 9

I started to laugh out loud when I saw that today was a monochromatic, elegant look Tim created. I simply thought, "Well shoot Tim, your killin' me here - I just did that yesterday, so now what?!?" So I put on my thinking cap --- Steampunk anyone? Yes, I went totally out of my element and decided to see what happened. Remember that discussion yesterday about the whole can't get out of the elegant box - well... is it still elegant? LOL! 

I love the old Christmas tune,  "It's the most wonderful time of the year," and felt that this sentiment would be perfect with the Steampunk look I created today. I was excited that Tim had selected to use the Rosette die today as I had set one aside for blog candy - yes, one lucky person can win that die today! It is such a versatile little shape that can be used in many ways!

I had brought in an old pattern in hopes that I could use it at some point during this tag series. Using the rosette die cut one out of the pattern directions and ink using the ink blending tool and Antique Linen Distress ink. Using the Weathered Wood pad ink directly to paper, or in this case pattern.

Next use the Perfect Medium pad to also direct-to-paper randomly rub the scalloped edge of the rosette to the pad and then brush on Pewter Perfect Pearls.

To create the flower center I used some gorgeous gold fabric that Julia had brought to work that was left over from her Halloween costume. Use Be Creative (Sookwang) tape to attach the fabric to cardstock.

Place a piece of pattern, then the cardstock (fabric side faced towards die as shown above) atop the rosette pinked die center and run it through the Big Shot.

As you can see I did use my little snips to make certain that it separated perfectly.

Attach the two ends of the rosette together to form a circle. (Tim has done a video for you so be certain to watch it if you are having trouble with the rosette die.) I wanted to share how the size of the rosette can vary when you are working with a lighter weight paper.

It all depends on how you hold the rosette as you adhere the pinked circle. See how tight it can be vs. the look shown in the photo above this one.

After with exchanging emails with Tim regarding how to hold the rosette together I am totally convinced that the old hot glue gun is definitely the best tool and glue to keep the rosette from popping open. I apply the glue generously to the pinked circle...

and then position it atop the rosette. Repeat for the opposite side and your rosette will be solid.

Since my glue gun was out I thought I would do a VERY old technique that many of you may have forgotten about. Ink your red rubber stamp generously with embossing ink (this is to make the removal of the stamp from the glue extremely easy.) Then squeeze a circle of glue on to your non-stick craft mat. Wait for the glue to cool down slightly...

and then place your stamp directly into the puddle of glue as shown above. Allow to sit until the glue cools and remove.

You can leave this embellishment in a button-like form, or use scissors (preferably non-stick) to cut out the image.

Remove excess embossing ink with a soft cloth. Ink with Perfect Medium Ink and brush on Pewter Perfect Pearls. Add rhinestones attaching with mini Glossy Accents to firmly affix and add that little extra bling.

Ink the music background with Coffee Archival ink and dry. Brush a coat of Matte Multi-Medium over entire tag. Crumple pattern and then straighten out and attach to tag. Brush another coat of Matte Multi-Medium over the top of the pattern paper like you would when you Mod Podge. Allow to dry and then using an ink blending tool and Vintage Photo Distress ink add character to the edges.

To create some funky leaves punch Mega Gian Dahlia Petals from the pattern directions. Ink in the same manner as the rosette, using Distress Antique Linen and Weathered Wood, and the Perfect Medium Ink pad. Apply Pewter Perfect Pearls.

I LOVE flattening wire and it was perfect for this application. Attach the flattened ends to your paper leaves using the mini Matte Multi-Medium as your adhesive. It is so very easy to control when using this little applicator. Curl some additional wire as shown below.

Print the sentiment on a piece of typing paper, then affix a small piece of the pattern directions directly atop the sentiment using Temporary or Repositionable adhesive.

I love the Glue Arts repostionable adhesive and keep one in my "gun" at all times. I do use repositionable adhesive quite frequently and so it comes in so very handy.

Gather some gold crochet trim by pulling one of the threads and attach to fabric piece cut to size using Be Creative (Sookwang) tape.

Create another strip from pattern paper using the rosette die. Run a piece of Be Creative tape along the bottom and apply Silver Embossing Powder. Be Creative/Sookwang tape can be heated - simply use your Heat It tool to melt the embossing powder. Attach to trim piece using more tape and attach entire embellishment to your tag using another strip of tape.

Add a few more rhinestones, some dangles and your sentiment as shown. So today you've been "Steampunked" - hope you enjoy this funky alternative and that it inspires you to try something different this holiday season!

stamps: Stampers Anonymous Festive Sounds and Winter Sketchbook

ink: Distress Embossing Ink, Perfect Medium, Distress Antique Linen, Weathered Wood and Vintage Photo

paper: Inkssentials Manila Tag #8, McCall's, Simplicity or Butterick Pattern

accessories: Tim Holtz Rosette Die, Tiny Attacher, Silver Embossing Powder, 7 Gypsies Time Flies Hardware, Copper Rhinestone Borders, Clear Chandelier Crystals, Punch Bunch Mega Giant Dahlia Petals, 18-gauge Bronze Wire, Chasing Hammer, Steel Bench Block, Rubber Block

Here we go - this die is a must have! It is so fun in SO many ways.

So yesterday I asked you what style you thought you created in - today I am going to challenge you. What have you NOT tried yet that you think just might be fun to give a try? Step out of your comfort zone and tell me what you are going to try this coming year! Leave your answer in the comments section below to be included in this random drawing. You have until Saturday morning - and trust me when I tell you that you are going to want to be here on Saturday morning - just sayin' ;-D

You can post a comment each day on the current post (one comment only please) for a chance to win today's goodies. We have 3 more tags and prizes to go AND we have Hero Arts stamps going live sometime tomorrow morning. The question is can I keep this exhausted body of mine up until midnight, will I wake up in the middle of the night or will it be when I crawl out of bed tomorrow morning - I wish I knew, but I'm just plain tired so I just can't promise. We also have some fun announcements coming tomorrow morning!

Headed out here momentarily to listen to some festive holiday music that my sweet Trina is singing tonight with the choir :-D

Thank you once again for the excitement you have shared in your comments. I know there is a prize attached, but I am REALLY enjoying having you here! THANK YOU!

heartfelt gift clips by Cindy Lyles

Hope you and your loved ones had a happy Thanksgiving - we are officially into the holiday season...for today's projects, I am working with Maya Road's Bingo numbers.  These come in red or brown numbers, and shapes/images are available in black.

We'll also be using clothespins.  Clothespins are everywhere in the blogsphere, magazines and crafting world in general...functional, clean lines, made from wood, and perfect for altering.

I am also using Maya Road's small round tins.  We are creating clips to be used for jazzing-up wrapped packages, that can subsequently be used in other ways after the gift is opened.

Working with new October Afternoon papers Schoolhouse and Modern Homemaker, a 1-3/8" circle was punched and adhered inside in the tin.  Select a number or numbers that work(s) with what you need.  For the above, it will be a clip for a Christmas package.

For each tin you'll need a Paper Rosette as well.

After adhering the 1-3/8" patterned paper circle inside the tin, followed by the bingo tile, add a scoop of clear shard glitter.  I sealed the Maya Road tin using Tissue Tape.

Cut downward snips into the tape so it will lay neatly...

...then fold them down on to the back of the tin.  Neat and clean.  The tissue tape has adhesive on one side, making this procedure easy.

Adhere the tin to a paper rosette, then adhere the unit to a patterned paper covered clothespin.  Tie a bit of Baker's Twine.  Adhere to a wrapped parcel...recycle the decorative clip into a tree ornament or fancy chip clip or bill sorter... 

The Maya Road bingo numbers of 29 and 11 add up to a nifty 40th birthday clip addition - adding color and cleverness to the traditional black.

Hope your turkey day was full-filling, and thank you for stopping by the CLASSroom today!

A Quick Gift Box For All Seasons and Reasons

Last minute gifts are always tough, and finding a way to package them can be even harder. Why not combine the two using some of your fun paper crafting products?

A few miniature chocolates wrapped in beautiful paper and presented in a box that was made to match is an easy way to impress the recipient with your clever and sweet ways. Even if the interior hints at something a little more sinister, they won't be able to resist nibbling on a piece or two before dinner.

The finished 4" x 5" size of these boxes will snuggle 15 little Treasures in ghoulishly delightful comfort. To wrap the chocolates in style you will need to cut 1" x 3" pieces of the different patterns of paper that you like.

For the Halloween boxes I used the Hocus Pocus line from Pink Paislee.

Prepare two pieces of patterned paper of your liking. For the bottom of the box you will need a piece that is cut at 7" wide and 8" tall. Take care in your planning if you are trying to center one of the designs in your project.

For the top of the box you will need a piece that is 12" wide and 5" tall.

Score the bottom at 3/4" and 1 1/2" from each of the edges. You should be left with an inside piece that is the same size and the finished dimensions of the box. 4" x 5".

Fold the inside score up and the outer down. Then you will trim into the center along the inner score just into the box bottom on the top and bottom of the paper.

Then place double sided adhesive tape along the edges.

Remove the protective backing from the top piece of adhesive and fold it back onto itself along the score line. Repeat on bottom.

Place four more pieces of double sided adhesive onto the "tabs" that were created.

Remove the protective backing and adhere to the side of the box after you fold it up.

 

Then remove the protective backing from the tape on the side and adhere into place.

Remove backing from tape on the other side.

Press into place and now the box bottom is complete.

For the top, center your design if necessary and then score the top at 3 3/16" and 3 15/16" and 8 1/16" and 8 13/16". If that is making your brain hurt as much as it did mine to try to describe to you, the idea is that you want the top to be able to slide easily on and off of the box bottom. So the top needs to measure barely over 4" width of the box bottom and barely over the 3/4" over the depth of the box. Hopefully one of those two descriptions will get you there.

Before I adhered the sliding top together I stamped on it and adhered some letter stickers for the sentiment.

And with more holidays around the corner to celebrate, why not make neighbor, co-worker and teacher gifts.  :o)

These are fun, easy and so very cute. Sit down and make a bunch at one time, then set a few of them aside for those unexpected situations when you need a gift in a hurry. If you don't have a fan of chocolate on your gift list, it is a great size for other types of treats, photos or for that someone special you could even make a matching mini-album. It is also easy to adjust the size if you have a little patience in doing some math. Just keep the scored widths the same on all four sides. Have fun and happy gift giving!

B-

Supplies Used: Hocus Pocus by Pink Paislee, Mitten Weather by Cosmo Cricket, Martha Stewart Scoring Board, Be Creative double sided tape, Black letter stickers are from the Life's Portrait paper crafting kit by Webster's Pages, White Trim from Prima Marketing.

Hocus Pocus Test Tube Treat Holder

I keep seeing these test tubes arrive and depart here in the warehouse and have wanted to create using them for over a year! EEK!

How to present these has been part of my fascination... I think. Test tube holders are either really expensive, drab looking and/or way too large or small. Our lunch time conversation yesterday turned to the many different ways to hold these test tubes. The template that I have designed is based on the fabulous advice of all the girls here at work. Have I told you how lucky I am to have such fabulous women to work with?!! So I decided to create a template for all those of you who purchase these from us :-D Simply download and use the dimensions attached below. As well, we will be adding this file to the description of the test tubes in the store so that you can easily find it in the future.

You are going to hear me raving about Craft-a-board again today - LOL! Two days ago I created the Halloween treat box base using it. I absolutely love how this product is sturdy enough to really hold it's shape for making a wide assortment of projects. I shared how you can cut part way through using the Zutter Kutter. WELL...  guess what!!! Most of you don't have Zutter Kutter's BUT you do have an Xacto Knife and steel edge ruler :-D

It dawned on me that if I used my Fiskar's tool together with the Tim Holtz ruler I may have discovered a solution for the others to be able to create the sturdy boxes I have been utilizing. Oh the feeling of jubilation when it worked like a charm! As you can see I held my ruler firmly in place and then gently, yet firmly cut through the first layer of the Craft-a-board surface.

This picture shows the reason I am so very excited about this. By cutting through the top layer only you can create crisp, clean folds!!!

If you find that you have cut too deep you can always use adhesive or tissue tape to reinforce your fold lines, but I did not have to do that at all on this project. In fact it worked better than the Zutter Kutter :-D

This photo shows my test tube holder base with all lines, what I am going to call "deep scored" (the top layer of the Craft-a-board being cut through and the bottom layer remaining intact.)

There are many ways to color the Craft-a-board. One of the quickest and easiest is to use an ink blending tool and dye inks. I love the color palette of the Distress Inks and so they are frequently my first go-to-ink for anything involving the blending tool. I inked the edges of the Craft-a-board and then the portions of the holder that were not going to be covered with decorative paper.

For more ways to use Craft-a-board simply click on the category link on simple dreams, In Touch and here in the CLASSroom.

Another product I cannot remember ever using before is rub-ons :-O Yes, the girl who likes to try everything hasn't tried rub-ons! As we have continued to explore and expand the lines that we carry in the store these have puzzled me.

Decorating a rounded surface can be somewhat tricky for those of us who are stampy stampers and so I stepped off the edge, so to speak, and broke open my first package of "Press Ons."

Sitting at my table puzzling over how I would hold it in place without moving it Cathy came to my rescue. I used basic removable office tape to hold it in place as I worked :-D

Using the Basic Grey Rub-on Roller I carefully applied my first Press-On. Success! I am hooked! Those optical lenses are now calling my name and I think I must find a way to make a few "dangly" Halloween decorations :-D

The next piece to the mental puzzle of creating the perfect test tube holder was creating the hole that would hold the tubes firmly in place. My circle was a little to large and then it dawned on me. I have seen these funky pinked edges on store packaging. I trace the location of my circle on to my decorative paper as shown above, making certain that it would be positioned in just the right spot.

Look at how perfect the Cosmos flower fits this circle! It was meant to be.

Another rub-on was added to the cork and a gemstone to add just that little bit of bling.

A little more bling with a strip of adhesive and Glitter Ritz, as well as the perfect little amber circle bling and now I have a very fun little vessel and holder in which to present my gift. Purple Nerds to the rescue momentarily for this picture, but soon I will have this filled with some crafting goodies to gift to someone very special.

We hope that you enjoy this little treat holder. Think of all the possibilities!!! You could stamp the decorative paper, add a focal image, drop a tag from it and so much more!!! Add an inch or two to the overall width, cut in additional holes, and you can easily hold two or three test tubes. I would also like to encourage you once again to give Craft-a-board a try. It has SO many uses --- I will continue to do my best to share the many ideas I have to help you bring a higher level of quality to the items you create. Thank you for joining me here in the CLASSroom - now go and get creative!

template: Download Test Tube Favor Stand Template

paper: Pink Paislee Hocus Pocus 6x6 Paper Pad

ink: Dusty Concord Distress Ink Pad

accessories: Martha Stewart Test Tube Favors, Craft-a-board, Fiskars Fingertip Knife, Tim Holtz Ruler, Pink Paislee Hocus Pocus Press-ons, Basic Grey Rub-on Roller, Copper Circle Rhinestone Borders, 1/4" Be Creative Tape, Apricot Glitter Ritz, Cosmos Flower Punch

Owl-o-ween Trick or Treat Pencil Box

I LOVE the days that our customers stop in to pick up their will call orders and they bring along projects they are working on. Ann, thank you so much for sharing your adorable treat box!!!

Nothing could be more fun than this little creation!

Ann is making these for an entire class - I know they will absolutely love this treat!

Well... I couldn't resist giving this a whirl. I pulled out a rather boring pencil box to get measurements to design this template. When I am back at work tomorrow I will measure my box and add the dimensions here. Then using Craft-a-board and my Zutter Cutter I was able to quickly design the base for this box.

Craft-a-board is an inexpensive, fantastic alternative to chipboard!

The Zutter Kutter has a very cool feature which allows you to cut part way through thicker materials. To cut through the Craft-a-board I use the regular setting. To cut a deeper score line in the Craft-a-board I set the dial to "3". This creates a cut which allows you to easily create beautiful boxes!

Then using Distress Inks and an Ink Blending Tool I sponged the surface to coordinate with the Hallowe'en in Wonderland spider web paper.

Above are the Copic colors I used to color the oh, so cute Tufted Owl.

Resisting opening the latest sketchy tree die from Tim Holtz was futile - it was just too perfect. Cutting the tree and then wrapping it around the box to position the owl within the harvest moon... well - I just had to do it :-D

A little added sparkle (Rock Candy and Wild Honey Distress Stickles), along with Black Enamel Accents on the eyes adds dimension for the finishing touch.

Ann, thank you once again for inspiring me and providing THE most fabulous of ideas!

stamps: Memory Box Tufted Owl, Hero Arts ClearDesign Happy Halloween

paper: Graphic 45 Hallowe'en in Wonderland 8x8 pad, Neenah Natural White, X-Press Blending Card

ink: Archival Jet Black, Distress Ink Pads - Weathered Wood, Faded Jeans, Scattered Straw, Wild Honey

accessories: Craft-a-Board, Nostalgic Tissue Tape, Black Enamel Accents, Rock Candy and Wild Honey Distress Stickles, Tim Holtz Branch Tree Bigz Die

Prima Marketing Masks and a Canvas Pennant Gift Tag

Masking and pennants are all the rage! You can use your masks for airbrushing, spritzing with misting sprays, paint, gesso, and ink blending tool and so much more.

Prima has added a bunch of different stencils (scroll down to the bottom of the page) to the mix and I wanted to give you the low-down on how these come packaged so that you won't be surprised as I was.

Each group of masks/stencils is held together with a rivet. I found it difficult to manipulate these stencils in their current form and so I tried several things. First I tested the rivet to see if it was threaded like a screw - nope. Next I tried to pry it open. Still no luck.This did loosen the rivet and thus made it easier to move the masks, so if you like the idea of keeping them together you may want to try this just to loosen them up a little.

So I finally ended up using my little scissors to snip off one mask right next to the rivet so that I could test how this would work.

 

To clean up my cut and make the edge symmetrical I used my Tonic cutter to trip the "label base."
 

I then used the 1/4" corner rounder on my chomper to even up my corners.
 

Both sides will need to be "chomped" to make them even.

 

To avoid movement as I sprayed I attached the stencil to my canvas with tape to hold it in place.
 

As you can see it is quite wet as I spray to get a deep color.
 

I remove the stencil very carefully to avoid dripping on my project. If you do drip, don't worry - just pretend that was the look you were going for as it is interesting as well.
 

To speed up the dry time I use my heat it tool.

Attach to your gift and make someone feel special with this one of a kind tag.

TIP: Use a basic brown bag and mist it with complimenting colors to create a unique gift bag. In addition you can add some color to plain tissue or packing paper with mist to brighten it up and make the gift even more fun to open.

stamps: Hero Arts ClearDesign Sew Stylish

ink: Tattered Angels Mist - Electric Blue, Sweet Clover and Timeless Lilac

accessories: Prima Masks I, Canvas Triangle Banner, Kioshi Bloomers and Buttons, Maya Road Turquoise Trim, Violet Silk RIbbon

Getting Back To Nature by Kim Hughes

Spring is around the corner...and what a better time to go on a nature hike?  I just love going for walks with my family when the weather is perfect.  This is a cute container for them to collect fun twings, leaves or rocks.  Since it's a plastic container, nothing will leak, so if they find something really cool, like a salamander in water, they can set it into this container to look at.

Supplies:

Nestability Dies - Labels Three

Memory Box 6x6 Cardstock, Frond, Log Home, Vanilla Bean card stock from the Notecard Collection, Indian Summer, Biscotti Cardstock, Collection, Nutty Squirrel

start with a plastic kool-aid container.  Crystal light comes in these "ready, set go" containers as well.  Turn a tasty drink into a carry-a-long for the kids.

I sent my 6 x 6 paper through the die cutting machine and created a window in the center.  I then stamped a squirrel onto white card stock and cut it out.  I also stamped the squirrel onto blue patterned paper to paper piece the apron.  I stamped the tree onto the same light blue patterned paper and cut it out as well.

I added green paper to the backdrop and a smaller patterned paper to the bottom of the "scene"

and this is what it looks like when the paper is adhered behind the die cut window.

I added the paper pieced apron to the squirrel and adhered it and the tree to the winidow scene.

Then I adhered the paper onto the plastic cylinder with a sturdy liquid glue.  I like Felt glue by Beacon...it dries super fast.  Crystal Effects works well for this as well, I am sure.

I punched holes in the top and tied ribbon in a knot in each end for the handle.  You can choose to leave the handle off and add delicious cookies to the container with the lid instead. 

Wrap green patterned paper to the bottom of the container.

I colored the hole in the tree with a brown marker and added punched leaves to the tree.

Take an ordinary card base and transform it into a tree branch, uhhuh, no seriously, it's easy :)

cut it down to three quarters of an inch and roll along the side, all the way down the length of the paper.  Continue until it's rolled up tight.


and then glue with sturdy liquid glue.  Cut off an inch from the bottom

bend the longer end and add to the top of the smaller piece...voila!

fold green patterned paper in half and then in thirds to create the same sized leaves for the branch

I know they aren't perfect, at least it's a plus if you can get them to be the same size to start, cut them down and add one behind the other so that it's green on both sides.

...and add to the tree branch, fun, iight?

this would also make a fun water bottle holder, or treat container (like some trail mix, maybe?)

 ;)  Have fun friends!

Coffee anyone? by Kim Hughes

I just love coffee and find that it makes a wonderful gift for my friends and family.  I decided to create a feminine and masculine coordinating coffee set.  Of course this can be adapted for tea or hot chocolate as well.

Supplies:

Cosmo Cricket 6" Mini Deck Paper Pad, Earth Love, Cosmo Cricket 6" Mini Deck Paper Pad, The Boyfriend, Cosmo Cricket Buttons, Material Girl

Backgrounder, Wood Grain

Adirondack Dye Ink Pad, Espresso, Adirondack Dye Ink Pad, Terra Cotta, Adirondack Dye Ink Pad, Pool

Basic Grey Opaline Half Pearls, Wine/Champagne

Hero Arts stamps: Cup of Coffee, ClearDesign: What's Perking

Distressed Stickles, Pine Needles, Distressed Stickles, Antique Bronze

other: kraft card stock, brown embroidery floss, Therm O Web Zots

 

start by stamping a wood grain pattern onto a small gift bag.  Notice how the color changes when you you stamp onto kraft.  The blue takes on a green hue.

Stamp the to go cup on the bag and again onto the orange patterned paper.

 

Cut the coffee sleeve oout of the orange paper and paper piece onto the base to go cup.  Add some glitter to the coffee for a glossy/sparkly finish
 

Cut a strip of orange paper to add to the bag fold.  Tear the bottom of the fold to give it a more masculine/rustic look.

Poke 2 holes through the folded flap and use a thread to tie a button closure.

 

Add more floss to the knot and let then hang down.

Press the end of the floss onto a pearl, add an adhesive dot and another pearl to the other side, making a custom bead on the end of the floss

 

add "pearl balls" to each dangly thread.
 

to create the feminine card, stamp the cup, steam and sentiment onto a kraft card base with a torn bottom edge

add some accent color by squeezing blue Stickles to the flower centers and stamping a blue accent spoon.

 

complete the card by anchoring the color with a paper strip and embellish with green buttons in the top corner.

 

When I looked closely at the flower mug, I saw a vase of sorts.  So, I inked the cup and removed the handle.
 

and then I singled out a flower on the cup, inked it with blue ink and added it above the vase.  I then added a larger flower around the small blue one with a brown pen and drew a stem

I hope you will have some fun with these adorable images, I know that I did :)

Aprons galore by Kim Hughes

I returned not so long ago from the winter CHA show and found so many wonderful new food and kitchen products!  So I was inspired to create with my Karen Lockhart apron stamps!

Supplies:

Tinsel Glitter, 12 pk

Webster's Pages Petite Papers Paperpad, Postcards from Paris & Sweet as Cherry, Webster's Pages Fabric Fancies, Home for the Holidays & Winter's Wings

Adirondack Dye Ink Pad, Espresso

Quickie Glue Pen

Memory Box card - pink

Karen Lockhart: Apron, Apron, Vintage

COPIC Sketch Marker E00, Skin White

Kim Hughes, Baked with Love

Maya Road: Trinket Pins, Hearts, What's Cookin' Mini Chipboard Set

Basic Grey Opaline Half Pearls, Wine/Champagne

 

when I cut stamped images, I start by trimming close to the image.  This allows for my scissors to keep from getting hung up on loose paper.  I always start with an opening of an image, in this case, it's the top of the apron, but if I was cutting a letter "e" I would cut the center of the loop first.

 

I chose to dull down the images with a little Copic coloring around the shaded areas of each stamp.  This gives a subtle shadow.
 

I created a pocket in the apron by cutting along the opening and stamping once again onto scrap paper.  This will allow the back to show when the pocket is opened.  Otherwise, you would see where you are adhering your paper pieced image to.
 

Press chipboard shapes onto an Espresso ink pad and press with your fingers.  Or place scrap paper over top to avoid inky fingers.

 

this is what the back of the pocket looks like.
 

glitter the chipboard pieces and add to the apron pocket.  I chose to imk the chipboard first to give the glitter a richer color.  Leaving it grey would have lightened them
 

Create an apron bag by cuttin a curve off from each of the top edges.
 

adhere the straps with this pieces of cut paper.

 

add one of the apron images to the side to act as a tag.
 

and embellish the gift bag with a stamped sentiment.  I glittered the measuring cup chipboard piece the same way I did above and added Zots to the back side.  This is how I adhere the pin behind the cup

 

To create the coordinating card, I dulled down the card base with a Copic marker.
 

I embellished the card with a stamped sentiment, and a fabric accent piece stands as a design element.  Lastly, I added some sweet brown tone pearls to jazz it up!
 

You can fill the gift bag with home-made goodies, recipe cards or a small household gift.  Try this with larger bags as well.  Thanks for stopping by :)

12 Days of Christmas - Day 8: Copics for Coloring by Susan Roberts

Welcome to Day 8 of the CLASSroom’s 12 Days of Christmas.  Karen Lockhart has some new images to be released soon, and this darling "Love in the Window" is one of my absolute favorites.  As it turned out, it is also the perfect size to alter a baby food jar into an easy gift jar.

The image was stamped with Memento’s Tuxedo Black Ink and colored with those wonderful crème de la crème of markers… COPICS!!

 

After coloring the image, I cut it out and punched two small slits on either side to thread the ribbon through.

 

After threading and tying a knot on one side, I put a strip of double sided sticky tape on the back before placing it on the jar.

 

Once the image was adhered to the jar, the (gingham) ribbon was wrapped around it and threaded and knotted through the second slit.

 

Just a note:  To make sure that the slits are a bit sturdier, I would recommend adhering a small second layer of cardstock on the back of the image where the slits will be punched.  With the slits punched through two layers, it would allow the ribbon to be pulled a little tighter before tying off the second knot without worrying about any tearing (like on mine below) and thus avoiding some minor repairs!!

The jar is finished off with another new Lockhart image called "IB Rosebud Heart".  It is also colored with COPICS, cut out and then adhered to the lid.

Thanks for dropping by the CLASSroom today!

----------------------------------------------------------------------

Stamps: Lockhart "Love in the Window" and "IB Rosebud Heart"

Inks: Memento Tuxedo Black and COPICS

EIGHTH DAY BLOG CANDY

On the eighth day of Christmas my goodie box could be:

• eight Copics for coloring (for a wonderful overview of the Copic Color System please read this fantastic tutorial put together by Debbie Olson)

 

To participate in this random drawing please leave your answer to the following question as a comment to this post. Please limit yourself to one comment only. The last day to submit a comment to this post will be January 6th at Midnight. We will post the winners (which will be drawn using a Random Number Generator) for all twelve days on January 7th.

Have you tried the Copic markers and if so what do you like about them? Have you taken a Copic class? Have you tried the airbrush system? Tell us a little about your experience with Copic markers or if you haven't had the experience of coloring with Copics please share why it is that you would like to win this set of markers :D

Don't forget the following 12 Days of Christmas blog candy drawings --- be certain to answer the question on each individual post to be included in that drawing!

• Favorite Scoring Tools
• Two Soldeirng Starters
• Three Inchie Art Packets
• Four Cournish Stamps
• Five Fab Fine Art Fixings
• Six Dies for Cutting
• Seven Alterable Items

Last Minute Gift Bags by Ellen Hutson

It is so fun to see you all enjoying the projects, games and tutorials that we have been presenting. We appreciate that you continue to join us here in the CLASSroom during this busy time and hope that your holiday season has been filled with happiness!!!

It always seems that I need last minute gift bags and so I thought I would share one of my little "quick" creations with you.

Start with a simple 9" x 12" office envelope. I purchased a whole box of white ones just for making gift bags - LOL! You could also use manila ones if you want a more "natural look. Cut the top flap off so that you have an even edge with no glue or clasp.

Then use a decorative punch to create a pretty "top" on your envelope. For this bag I used one of the Deep Edger punches, Floral Vine. I must admit that I am absolutely addicted to some of these beautiful new punches and the new "eyelet" looks are some of my favorites. Eyelet, a trend I have been predicting for some time, is being seen on so many levels right now and I am loving it! The new "doiley" stamps from Hero Arts, as well as these awesome punches, were greeted with glee - LOL!

Next score the bottom and sides an equal distance from the edge. For my gift bags today I scored one inch up from the bottom and one each from each side. Using my teflon bone folder I then folded the envelope along these score lines and creased it in back and forth. This helps make it easier to "ease" your bag into shape.

It is so very easy to create different proportion bags. The key is to measuring the distance from the bottom and sides and score the lines consistently in both of these areas. For example, if you select 1 1/2" for the bottom, then the sides should be 1 1/2" from each edge; or 2" on the bottom and 2" on each side.

Next I scored the lower corner "squares" diagonally.  This score line helps me create a more perfect bottom - LOL!

I then pop out the envelope into a bag shape and create the little "ears" on the bottom of the bag.

Turn the bag over and apply adhesive to the bottom sides of these "ears" and then firmly press them back against the bottom of the bag.

To finish these off I created simple gift tags using the Eskimo Kisses Woolies together with simple diecut tags and gorgeous silk ribbon. 

This little white basic can be finished in so many different ways. I look forward to sharing some of those ideas with you in the future. One can never have too many simple gift bag ideas!!! So grab those office envelopes and see what you can create ;)
   

Super Lucky Box by Kim Hughes

Favor boxes are such a great size to play with!  You can fill this box with candy, jewelry, instant lottery tickets, an actual fortune cookie maybe?  This little gem of a box can be given to a friend, family member or a co-worker...the possibilities are truly endless.  Put something in this box to tell someone that you are lucky to know them.

 

this box has a magnetic closure built in...love that!

Supplies:

Karen Lockhart stamp: Fortune Cookie

CHF: Backgrounder, Asian, Kim Hughes, Sweet Spring (Easter, St. Patrick's Day)

Copic: YR21, YR24

Basic Grey Brads, Porcelain Glazed, Basic Grey Buttons, Lime Rickey

Cut-N-Dry Stamp Pad Foam

ink: Adirondack Dye Ink Pad, Espresso, Adirondack Dye Ink Pad, Terra Cotta, Adirondack Dye Ink Pad, Lettuce

Use this idea on either of these favor boxes: Martha Stewart Goodie Box, Combo Kit, Martha Stewart Favor, Flourish Box, Ivory

Start by stamping the shamrock in green, , add a subtle shadow by stamping the image lightly next to the main image

Then stamp the word "lucky" in brown on top of the image.

 

Cut a piece of scrap paper to serve as a mask to cover the plastic window.  The paper is 1 1/2" x 1 1/2".  Use re-positionable tape t gently adhere it to the plastic.
 

Next, ink the Asian patterned stamp with orange ink and press box onto inked stamp
 

Stamp the same pattern in green, this time face the box face uo and press the stamp onto the box.  Do not use an acrylic block.  Just rub across the back of the stamp with your fingers, making sure to get good coverage of the pattern across the top of the box.
 

Sponge the same green ink onto the entire surface of the box, top, sides and inside the lid.  When you are ready to ink the inside of the lid, transper the scrap square to the back side and use the mask once again to protect the clear window.
 

Stamp the fortune cookie onto white card stock and cut it out.  Color with YR21
 

and add dimension by coloring the darker areas with YR24.  This stamp tells you where the shaded areas are with small dots.  Once you darken with YR24, go back and color the cookie once again with YR21
 

add stamped accent to the top of the box and bend the little white paper up a bit to add dimension.

add mini brads to button holes and add to the box clasp.

 

favor boxes are great for baby showers, wedding table decorations and so much more, but why not think of them for everyday use as well.  They are super cute and can hold the sweetest little gift.  Christmas is slowly approaching...these are great for thoughtful teacher's gifts.  Have fun creating!

*FYI....Ellen will be introducing a new template design on December 26th, so please be on the lookout*

BACKGROUNDERS Take Front and Center by Susan Roberts

Backgrounders aren't just for backgrounds anymore!  Today I've taken 4 different backgrounders and made wrapping paper for some cute little soaps (measuring 2-5/8"x1-5/8"x5/8").

It's so fun, so easy, and so fast.  I used printer paper, and it worked great!  How is that for economical, too.

These backgrounders are large and work best when mounted on a solid block.  I don't have an acrylic block that is large enough, so I just used the image side of one of my wood mounted backgrounders.  It worked like a charm.

It is easy to clean the large backgrounder stamp while on the wood block as well.  Then pull it off and replace it with another!

 

After stamping the image on printer paper, I simply cut it out and wrapped up the soap.

With plenty of paper to spare there was enough to fold over the end to avoid having a raw edge.  (I have actually cut off about an inch from the piece below before folding it over.  This means a larger piece of soap could have been used.)

After wrapping the soaps, the edges were sponged.

 

 

I added ribbon, art flowers, buttons, brads and more to the soaps.

 

Tags were made using the smallest Nestability die from the Classic Small Rectangle Long set.

I love having a few little gifts on hand.  These could be given individually, boxed together or even incorporated into a bow and wrappings on a larger gift.  Hope you'll give this a try.

Happy Crafting!

All stamps are from Cornish Heritage Farms.

Blue Soap Backgrounder: "Mini Triangles" Sentiment: "Botanical Bliss"

Yellow Soap Backgrounder: "Geometric Flowers II" Sentiment: "Botanical Bliss"

Green Soap Backgrounder: "Petite Pattern" Sentiment: "Silhouette Blooms I"

Lavender Soap Backgrounder: "Scalloped Lace" Sentiment: "Nature Silhouettes"

Butterfly on Tags: "Nature Silhouettes"

(Backgrounder Mounted on Wood Block): "Rice Paper"

Trick Or Treat? by Kim Hughes

well, I am sure that most kids will choose treat instead of trick, but who says that it needs to be a sweet treat?  My kids are handed more and more non-treats such as popcorn, toothbrushes and pencils.  So, I created an easy pencil "treat" holder just in time for Halloween

Supplies:

Adirondack Dye Ink Pad, Terra Cotta, Adirondack Dye Ink Pad, Pitch Black

Punch, 5/8" Circle

Invisibles, Paper "Dots"

Memory Box - Web Crawler, Halloween Greetings

Cut-N-Dry Stamp Pad Foam

Kim Hughes Paper Pack, Mocha Chica

Basic Grey 12"x12" Collection, Lemonade, Basic Grey Buttons, Wisteria

Martha Stewart Baker's Twine, Solids

 
Start by adding color to the polka dot Invisibles paper.  I rubbed the ink on with a circular motion.
 
  

Once you have covered the paper with ink, rub off excess ink from the resist polka dots.  Use a circle punch that is the same size as the polka dots...or one that is as close to the size as you can get.
  

Use a larger circle punch to punch out a "scrap" circle template.

 

On the back of the orange polka dot paper, line up the inner circle with your template and trace along the top of the outer circle.  Trace paper or a ruler across the center of the circle and hand cut along the line.

  

This is what it will look like once you have cut both ends

 

mat the paper onto yellow paper, add the pencil through the ends

Stamp spider web, sentiment and spider in black onto green paper and cut around it so that it's slightly larger than the yellow base because it needs to go over the pencil.

Punch 2 small holes through the green panel and the base at the same time.

 

thread the twine through both holes at the same time and wrap around to the front.

 

tie a bow in front and add a button accent to the center of the bow.

 

and here's a close-up of your Halloween message

 

this is what the back side will look like.  You can add it to a card base and include a message inside. 
 
 
I am hoping that you will find these easy enough that you might consider making some for your child's class.  Change the size of the holes to adapt to a lollipop, toothbrush or a stick of gum.  Experiment and have fun!

Flower magnet gift set by Kim Hughes

Have you needed a last minute gift and just couldn't think of what to make?  I am hoping that this idea comes to mind the next time you are in a pinch.  Make custom refrigerator magnets.  You can make a bunch of them to have on hand.  Create some in holiday theme or coordinate colors with a loved one's kitchen.  Give them to a friend, family member, teacher, co-worker etc.  Have fun with this fast and easy gift idea.

Supplies:

Spellbinder's Nested Flower

Nestability Dies - Circle, Standard Large

Martha Stewart Baker's Twine, Solids

Gardener's Know the Best Dirt (Karen Lockhart stamp)

Essentials by Ellen: Art Magnetic Masking Material

Cosmo Cricket 6" Mini Deck Paper Pad, The Boyfriend

Webster's Pages Petite Papers Paperpad, Postcards from Paris & Sweet as Cherry

Start by cutting flowers with a Nestabilities die cut from Ellen's innovative magnetic masking material.  The dies stay in palace because of the magnet (pretty cool)

the magnetic paper has a smooth white paper finish on the front.  Use the same flower die cut on blue patterned paper as well.

The paper flowers fit the magnets beautifully.  Use a circle punch or the circle Nestabilties dies for the red paper polka dot flower centers.  Hand cut green paper leaves for each flower.

Adhere the leaves between the paper and magnet layer.  Having paper in the back of the magnet will most likely affect how well it works.

Cut a card base and machine sew around the edge.  Pull out some chocolate twine.

wrap the twine around the card, wrap around the magnet to hold it in place.  This is an interactive card, where they will be instructed on the inside that the flowers are not only a beautiful accent to the card, but gift magnets as well.

Once you have held each flower in place, tie the strings together

Use a paper scrap for the sentiment

and hand cut around it, adding a curve in the end for added interest.  Add the sentiment to the bottom of the card.

and see...it really does look beautiful on my fridge.  I plan to make a bunch more today.
 
Thanks for stopping by today.  I always enjoy your company.

:)