the CLASSroom

Hello, Monday 06.03.2013

(click on the pic to enbiggan)

It's that time of year, of course: Graduation. I think this card would work well for that, or any other major accomplishment like a new job, a promotion, yadda yadda.

Totally crazy for this Celebrate embossing folder set by Lifestyle Crafts--it's a pair of folders I know I will use often because the designs are so suitable for so many different things.

I do declare, POW! Glitter Paper has to be one of the most delicious papers ever--it's super smooth, like an entire 12x12 sheet of micro-fine glitter paper. NO LIE!!! I can never get enough of the stuff. It's easy to cut, punch and die cut.

In fact, it's so purdy, I can't stand to cover it up. So, even tho it looks like the whole card front is this gaaaaaw-jus glittery goodness, I totally faked it.

There are a couple of ways to do this; I just used one method. Today. Because the others didn't pop into my head until I finished what I was doing. BAH HAHAHA!!! Ain't that always the way of it???!!!

Aaaah, well. Maybe the other methods will turn up in a future video... ya' just never know, do ya'?! *wink*

You can watch the video here, or over on YouTube, as you wish! And, thanks, as always, for subscribing to our channel!

ETA:  Thank you for letting us know about the sound! We have it fixed and have re-uploaded!  Enjoy!

Have a glorious Mundane! 

SUPPLIES:

My Favorite Things Clear Stamp Set, Gift Card Greetings	My Favorite Things Die-namics, Stacking Stars	Sizzix Framelits Die Set, Circles, Zig Zag by Stephanie Barnard, 4PK	Lifestyle Crafts Embossing Folders, Celebrate
VersaMark Inkpad	Studio Calico Atlantic 6x6 Paper Pack	A Cardstock, Neenah Classic Crest Solar White, 25 pack	A Cardstock, Neenah Classic Crest Solar White, Ream
American Crafts, Pow! Glitter Paper, 12x12 Silver Solid, 2pk	Embossing Gun	White Embossing Powder	Glue Glider Pro
Glue Glider Pro Plus Refill, High Tac 58'	Kool Tak White Foam Adhesive, 1/4 Squares (1/16 Thick)	Paper Trimmer, Tonic Guillotine 8 1/2"	Sizzix Big Shot Machine, Powder Blue & Teal
Tweezers, Stainless	Martha Stewart Scoring Board, Mini

InLinkz.com

Transparency Tricks by Julia Stainton

Transparencies or overlays have been a long-time favorite crafting product of mine. The shine, the patterns, and the way they add an extra layer of dimension without hiding what's underneath all play into making them intriguing to design with.

I love the new Cards Overlay sheet by Alison Kreft for Webster's Pages. It's a 12x12 transparency sheet that can be used on a layout as is, or cut up to make ATC sized accent transparencies. I chose to do the latter and have designed three cards so show different and easy ways to adhere transparencies. Some crafters find them intimidating to use as they are not sure how to adhere them, but it's really so simple.

Obviously, you can't use regular adhesive when adhering clear items as the adhesive can be seen right through them. This first card layers a chevron printed transparency over layers of patterned paper. It gives a fun look because you can see the different prints through the transparency.

For this card I used my favorite, and the easiest way I know to attach the transparency to the card. A couple staples at opposite corners is fast and holds it on perfectly.

For the second card I wanted to try something a little different. The beautiful birds inspired a more simple and dreamy look.

An experiment seemed to be in order so I went searching through my crafting stash.

Two colors of Distress Stickles were squirted onto the reverse side of the transparency...

...and then smeared together with my finger to cover the entire reverse side of the transparency. Make sure you get right to the edges and then flip over and adhere to a card front. Lay it flat to dry so that the transparency doesn't slide.

 Once dry, your transparency will be adhered and you'll be left with a beautiful glittered background.

Another quick way to adhere a transparency is with washi tape or fabric tape. I've used Maya Road Fabric Tape here to add this fun journaling style transparency. To keep it extra secure you can add a little adhesive on the reverse side of the overlay where you plan to add the fabric tape as it will cover it.

Here's the detailed view. Transparencies are very easy to adhere embellishments over the top of. I like to use a hot glue gun for the heavier embellishments but stickers work fun on their own.

Finally, I'm sure I've shared this trick before but it's worth repeating. One sheet of Fabric Thickers can be changed into any color you want with Copic Markers. It's as simple as coloring them in.

Have a fabulous weekend and thanks for joining me today in the CLASSroom!

Supplies:

InLinkz.com

Hello, Monday 05.06.2013

(click on the pic to en-biggan)

In last week's webisode, I mentioned saving the liner paper from the adhesive tape. Today, I will show you an idea for using it! ;)

Burnished velvet (with micro-fine glitter) is one of those techniques that never fails to WOW--I have to admit, I can never resist running my finger over it because that smooth, glittery, velvety surface always amazes me... SO *plush*!!!

This particular method/variation of the technique involves "glitter masking" and is kind of like building a layered puzzle, for lack of a better description. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• The liner paper is very slick so to prevent dies from slipping and sliding during the die cutting process, try using Washi tape to secure the die and liner paper together to the cutting pad of your die cutting machine. Ask me how I know...
• As you layer your masks, remember that whatever image (or images) you choose to be in the foreground should be masked first (It will ultimately be the last image you apply glitter to)
• Apply masks for anything appearing in the background in subsequent layers
• Be careful not to touch exposed adhesive surface with your fingertips as the natural oils from your skin can neutralize the adhesive
• Use scraps of liner paper over the top to help burnish down the masks, especially along the edges (see previous tip; you'll see me do this on the video)
• Once you start applying the glitter, you will be working from/starting with the background to the foreground, removing the masks and applying each color one at a time
• Work on clean scratch paper as you add each new color to avoid cross-contamination of glitters. Ask me how I know that, too... LOL!
• As you start to apply glitter and burnish with your fingers, take care not to inadvertently snag the edges of your masks; if they lift up, you may end up a color of glitter in an area that you did not want
• Before adding the next color of glitter, squeegee off excess on the surface as much as you can with your fingers, then use a soft brush to continue sweeping it away. This will help avoid cross contamination and give a crisply, cleanly glittered result
• Save your masks! They can be used many times over; just make sure they are free of glitter for future use. I store mine in a zip loc baggie, in the same drawer with my glitters
• Embellishments can be mounted to the finished glittery surface with Glossy Accents or Glue Dots

I think this would make a beautiful card for so many different occasions--not only Mother's Day, thinking of you, get well, friendship, but also even for sympathy situations.

One thing I wanted to mention is that I used the vertical Memory Box Butterflies Delights Die on a scrap of White Linen card stock that happened to be handy, but the horizontal Dancing Butterflies one also has tiny butterflies that would work just the same.

You can enjoy this week's video right here or hop on over to YouTube--we love sharing creative ideas and encourage you to subscribe to our channel so you don't miss a thing! Thanks for watching!

••••••••••••••••

SUPPLIES & MATERIALS:

Savvy Stamps Dies, Wishing Flower	Savvy Stamps Dies, Grass	Memory Box Dies, Dancing Butterflies	Memory Box Dies, Butterfly Delights
Glitter Ritz Microfine, Ocean Spray	Glitter Ritz Microfine, Grasshopper	Glitter Ritz Microfine, Poppy Orange	Glitter Ritz Microfine, Moss Green
Be Creative (Sookwang) Tape, 65mm (2 1/2")	Be Creative (Sookwang) Sheets, 5 pk (8x11)	A Cardstock, Essentials by Ellen: Woodgrain Embossed #110 Cardstock, 10 Pack	A Cardstock, Neenah Classic Crest Solar White, 25 pack
A Cardstock, Essentials by Ellen: White Linen #100 Cardstock, 25 Pack	A Cardstock, Neenah Classic Crest Solar White, Ream	A5 Cardstock, Black, 10 pack	Glue Glider Pro
Glue Glider Pro Plus Refill, High Tac 58'	Martha Stewart Scoring Board, Mini	Teflon Bone Folder	Tweezers, Stainless
Kool Tak White Foam Adhesive, 1/4 Squares (1/16 Thick)	Paper Trimmer, Tonic Guillotine 8 1/2"	Honey Bee Non Stick Scissors	Accents, Glossy

InLinkz.com

Hello, Monday 04.29.2013

 (click on the pic to enbiggan)

I have been stamping and coloring on glitter with Copics for a while but haven't always been completely satisfied with the end results. Until now. Different ink and Copic combinations can work, but if you're not *uber* careful you can up with mud. Ack.

Coloring stamped images with Copics requires using the right balance of ink and paper in order to achieve optimal results.  Memento Ink by Tsukineko + Copics is a pretty widely known combo that yields great results. On paper.  But, coloring a stamped image on glitter can be a little tricker. Because you need to use an ink that will actually DRY on glitter AND not bleed out when alcohol ink is applied. Ruh roh...!

You may not be aware that Copics also work beautifully on paper with most* PIGMENT inks. The catch is that they must be fully dry so as not to smear.

Enter: Brilliance by Tsukineko

(this is where the heavens part and you hear angel voices singing)

Brilliance has *looooong* been one of my all-time favorite inks. It is a faster-drying PIGMENT ink. One of its advantages over many other pigment inks, however, is that it can dry on non-porous surface, such as Polyshrink (another topic for another day). *wink*

Brilliance will dry on glitter.  It will need to be heat set, to ensure it is thoroughly dry, but it will dry on glitter. And you can color the image with Copics. You can even be a little careless and color right over the top of this ink. And there will be no bleeding. There will be no mud. 

I know, right?! 

Here are some tips for stamping and coloring on Micro-fine glitter:

• You'll achieve optimal results when stamping onto glitter if you use a micro-fine type; even ultra-fine is not fine enough
• Burnish the micro-fine glitter into the tape with your finger tips until there are no sticky areas left; "squeegee" off the excess with your fingers to reveal a velvety smooth surface
• Stamp with a pigment ink such as Brilliance; as a pigment ink, it works extremely well when coloring with Copics and it is one of the few pigment inks that will actually dry on glossy/slick surfaces without needing to be sealed with embossing powder
• Heat set the ink by keeping your heat gun a safe distance away, i.e. 7-8", to avoid melting the glitter; test dryness with scrap paper as shown in the video
• Lightly tap the tip of the Copic marker when coloring, allowing the ink to flow out; brushing/stroking the nib against the glitter can not only cause the tip to fray, but it can also cause the adhesive beneath the glitter to deteriorate and etch off, resulting in a lack-luster finish

You can view the video here, or hop over to YouTube and thanks muchly for subscribing to our channel!

 

*I say "most" because some inks that are touted as pigment inks are not actually true pigment inks, but more a hybrid of chalk + pigment ink that may indeed smear when alcohol ink is applied...

••••••••••••••••

SUPPLIES & MATERIALS:

 

Savvy Stamps, Outline Posey	Be Creative (Sookwang) Tape, 65mm (2 1/2")	Be Creative (Sookwang) Sheets, 5 pk (8x11)	A Cardstock, Essentials by Ellen: White Linen #100 Cardstock, 25 Pack
A Cardstock, Neenah Classic Crest Solar White, 25 pack	A Cardstock, Neenah Classic Crest Solar White, Ream	Cardstock, Black, 10 pack	Elizabeth Craft Designs Silk Microfine Glitter, Warm Diamond 1oz
Brilliance Pad, Graphite Black	COPIC Sketch Marker R24, Prawn	COPIC Sketch Marker R20, Blush	COPIC Sketch Marker, 0 Colorless Blender
Shape 'N Tape, Black	Essentials by Ellen: Sequins, Satin Black	Gemstones, Black Crystals	Teflon Bone Folder
Honey Bee Non Stick Scissors	Embossing Gun	Kool Tak White Foam Adhesive, 1/4 Squares (1/16 Thick)	Accents, Glossy
Glue Glider Pro Plus Refill, High Tac 58'	Glue Glider Pro	Martha Stewart Scoring Board, Mini	Paper Trimmer, Tonic Guillotine 8 1/2"

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

---

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 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

---

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

---

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!

Hello, Monday 11.19.2012

(click on the pic to en-biggan)

I love a lot of different things, so whenever I'm asked what "my style" is, I struggle sometimes with defining it.

This design is an example of wanting to create a "vintage-looking" embellishment or focal point, but executing the overall design with the clean and simple style I'm so fond of.

The Savvy Stamps 3D Star Die was my starting point--I wanted to recreate the effect of a beautiful vintage ornament so I die cut the shape from a pretty collaged sheet from Basic Grey's Aspen Frost collection. It has score lines built into the design--you could use the stars flat, but I thought the dimensional look was a nice effect and gave this card a lot of visual "pop"!  I actually cut a bunch of stars all at once so I could use them later on different projects--I think they'd be darling to dangle on gift packages or to make a garland.

LOVE LOVE LOVE this Silver Stickles Dry Glitter--it's the same they use in their Stickles and it is INCREDIBLY sparkly, hence the sentiment from the Be Jolly set by Technique Tuesday... *wink*

I did reach a point where I debated on whether or not to add "one more thing", cuz y'all know how going down that path can subsequently lead to the circular file, but in this case, one of my favorite stand-by tricks polished the card off perfectly. 

Enjoy the video here or in HD over on YouTube!

Thanks for joining me this Monday! Have a gooder!

••••••••••••••••

SUPPLIES & MATERIALS:

 

Technique Tuesday Clear Stamps, Be Jolly	Savvy Stamps Dies, Folded Star Die	VersaMark Inkpad	Stickles Dry Fine Glitter, Silver
A Cardstock, Essentials by Ellen: White Linen #100 Cardstock, 25 Pack	Basic Grey Aspen Frost, 6x6 Paper Pad	A Cardstock, Neenah Classic Crest Solar White, Ream	A Cardstock, Neenah Classic Crest Solar White, 25 pack
Ranger - Super Fine 1oz. Embossing Powder, Silver	Mixed Accent, Neutrals	2 Way Glue, Chisel Tip	3D-Dots, 1/8" Thick
3D-Dots, 1/16" Thick	Soft Grip Embossing and Stylus Set	Crop-A-Dile Power Punch, 1/16"	Sizzix Big Shot Machine, Black & Pink
Tweezer Bee	Tweezers, Stainless	Craft Knife, Fingertip	Heat It Craft Tool

InLinkz.com

Hello, Monday Video: GOT CANDY? by Julie Ebersole

(click on the pics to en-biggan)

I had seriously way too much fun making this Halloween design--this tiny shopping bag is to die for--LITERALLY!!!

I can't help but have a lot of fun when it comes to Halloween--it's the Mister's birthday! Candy, cake AND ice cream???!!! Oh, yeah, baby!!!

This week's video shows you how the whole thing came together and you can watch it right here, or hop over to YouTube to watch it in HD!  Enjoy!

••••••••••••••••••

SUPPLIES & MATERIALS:

A3 Cardstock, Neenah Environment Desert Storm, Ream	A3 Cardstock, Neenah Environment Desert Storm, Ream	Echo Park 6x6 Pad, Dots & Stripes, Soda Fountain	Echo Park 6x6 Dots and Stripes - Homefront
Memory Box Dies, Mini Shopping Bag	Memory Box Dies, Dangling Spider	Sizzix Big Shot Machine, Black & Pink	Be Creative (Sookwang) Tape, 3mm (1/8")
Martha Stewart Scoring Board, Mini	Soft Grip Embossing and Stylus Set	Tweezers, Stainless	3D-Dots, 1/16" Thick
Uni-ball Impact Gel Pen, White	Teflon Bone Folder	Sakura Quickie Glue Pen	Cosmo Cricket Tiny Type Stickers, Black
Glitter Ritz Microfine, Black	Xyron 1.5" Create-a-Sticker Machine	Crop-a-Dile Corner Chomper Tool, Angle & Photo Corner

InLinkz.com

WCMD 2012 Challenge 1: Holiday Greetings with Julie Ebersole

(click on the pic to en-biggan)

Yay for World Card Making Day!

My challenge for you today is to create a Holiday Greeting!

The instant I saw it, I fell madly in love with this awesome set by Ali Edwards for Technique Tuesday, called "Jingle All The Way"!  My inspiration design here may seem complex, given the stamp set I used, but it's actually a lot easier than you think. *wink*

I mounted all the sentiments I wanted to use onto one single acrylic block--this initially took a little time, to make sure they were all straight; an acrylic block with grid lines really helps! This way, I could ink and stamp all at once, making mass production of this design a breeze!

It was then very easy to "fill the gaps" with the darling accent images in the set like the bell, holly and stars, in different colors.

A little bit of twine and some Rock Candy Stickles was all that was needed to finish it off!

Can't wait to see what Holiday Greetings you create and thanks for joining me in this challenge for World Card Making Day!

••••••••••••••••••••

SUPPLIES & MATERIALS:

Technique Tuesday Clear Stamps, Jingle All the Way by Ali Edwards	Shadow Ink, Soft Granite	Memento Ink Pad, Love Letter
Memento Ink Pad, Dandelion	Memento Ink Pad, Pear Tart	Shadow Ink, Soft Pool
A Cardstock, Neenah Classic Crest Solar White, Ream	A Cardstock, Neenah Classic Crest Solar White, 25 pack	H4 Cardstock, Dove Gray
Doodle Twine Spool, Gray	Distressed Stickles, Rock Candy	Clear Acrylic Block 3" x 4" Rectangular with Grid
3D-Dots, 1/16" Thick

InLinkz.com

---

HOLIDAY CARD CHALLENGE

We hope that this challenge helps give you a jump start on your holiday cards! Create a card to use this upcoming holiday season! Once you have completed this challenge please be certain to link directly to that specific project in our WCMD Challenge Blog Candy post!

BLOG CANDY

What is your favorite time of year to pull out your card making supplies and create?

Be certain to leave your answer in the comment section on this post to be entered in a random drawing for the following goodies. All comments must be made by 11:59pm Pacific Time on October 7th to be eligible.

Seeing Dots by Sharon Harnist

Karen Lockhart released her new Spring 2012 stamps last week and I couldn't wait to color this adorable Polka Dot Bike . . . especially since my sweet 9-year old daughter crashed her bicycle this weekend and broke her arm, poor thing!  

I guess this card might have been good to give her, with a different sentiment, maybe, LOL!  Her day was definitely NOT perfect that day!

I stamped the images with Memento Tuxedo Black ink onto Copic X-Press It Blending Card and colored it with fresh, pretty colors of Copic Markers.  The image was then trimmed to 3" square. To finish the edges, I adhered Copic's Double-Sided High-Tack 1/8" Tissue tape to the edges:

and then covered the tape with Microfine White Glitter. The image was adhered to a 3.50" square of Memory Box Currant notecard, trimmed with pinking scissors.  I love the frosty look of glassine bags and was thrilled to find these adorable 3.50" Glassine Envelopes in Ellen's store!  

I slipped the notecard in and decorated the outside of the envelope with Tattered Florals die cuts (from Currant and Cherry Blossom Memory Box notecards) and Doodle Assortment-Bright Twine.

I sure hope this notecard helps to make someone's day perfect! ~ Sharon

Stamps: Lockhart Stamp Co - Polka Dot Bike & Thanks For a Perfect Day sentiment
Paper: Copic X-Press It Blending Card; Memory Box notecards-Currant and Cherry Blossom; 3.50" Glassine Envelopes; 
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black; 
Copic Markers: C0, C1, E30, E31, R24, R27, RV52, RV55, T1, T3, T5, V15, Y18, YR04, YG95, 
Dies: Sizzix Tim Holtz Bigz Tattered Florals; 
Accessories: Doodle Twine Assortment-Bright; 
Other: Pinking scissors, Copic Double-Sided High-Tack 1/8" Tissue and 1/2" Foam tapes; Glitter Ritz Microfine White Glitter; hand-held hole and EK Success 1/2" circle punches; button 

"Faux"berge Easter Eggs

Easter is right around the corner and I thought I would share an idea that has been brewing in my head for some time. I figured I'd best get busy and share it if anyone is to have time to play with it this Easter season.

It was as I thought about the many ways to use adhesives that these ideas popped into my head. I cannot lay claim to the clever title of these eggs. Julia E, here at work, is so very clever with words!!! After sharing my idea she just popped out the word "faux"berge and I started to laugh - it was perfect!

Glitter, foil, pearls, gemstones, Be Creative (Sookwang) tape, embossing powder, Distress Stain... the list of products in our studio that can be used to embellish an Easter egg is LONG. It is so fun to think of different ways to use these products!

I would like to recommend that you blow out the insides of your eggs before beginning, but due to limited time I just went for it being VERY careful not to drop it as I worked. Sadly these eggs would not smell very good if I were to actually put them out on display, so I keep peeking at them in the fridge from time to time - LOL! Next time I will definitely be blowing the insides out!

The first idea was to use the beautiful Design Adhesives we carry. The smaller designs are simpler to use because you do not need to worry about them overlapping themselves when you adhere it to the rounded surface. Cut out an individual shape and burnish on to the surface of your egg.

Gently peel back the protective coating.

Apply glitter and press glitter into adhesive with your fingertip.

Pour off the excess glitter and burnish the glitter into the adhesive, just as you would when doing the burnished velvet technique on paper.

Remove excess glitter with a soft brush.

These glittery eggs are absolutely spectacular! Use one color or many colors of glitter for a variety of looks.

The larger adhesive designs are a little more difficult to work with on the rounded surface. You will need to slightly overlap the design, but I found the look to be worth the extra effort.

Apply the Designer Foil to the sticky adhesive surface and gently rub the foil into place making certain all adhesive is covered with foil.

Peel it back and the foil remains attached to the adhesive.

If you have little gaps left exposing the adhesive simply apply a little Microfine glitter. You can use a coordinating color or contrasting - just think of all the options this leaves you!

Not only can you use Design Adhesive for this technique but you can create your own adhesive shapes using your dies and Be Creative (also known as Sookwang) tape! You must use the sheets which have the protective backing attached.

Select a design that would compliment the shape of an egg and cut it out. Dies that are extremely intricate will not work for this technique because the adhesive will stretch as you remove the backing and apply it to your egg. Select your dies with this in mind.

Begin to peel back the protective backing and attach this to your egg. Remove a small portion at a time and adhere to your egg surface.

Once you have it attached apply a light pressure over the entire design to make certain the adhesive is adhered to the egg.

Remove the backing and apply your glitter, burnishing it in to the adhesive.

Add additional embellishments to glam up your egg!

As with all things crafty one things leads to another --- what would Distress Stains do to an egg? I simply applied the stain to my egg and used a soft tissue to remove the excess.

Eggs are so very interesting - the striped appearance just happened naturally!

Using the dots from my previous experiment with diecutting Be Creative sheets I covered my egg. You could easily use Glue Dots if you were simply applying glitter or foil, but if heated Glue Dots will begin to bubble, whereas Sookwang tape can be used with heat.

Remove the backing and apply white embossing powder. Heat the embossing powder to melt.

You could create so many different patterns using tape - stripes, plaids, chevrons, mixed dots and stripes, more die cut shapes - my oh my the list is endless!

How cute is the polka dotty egg?!? These would make awesome little decorations on your Easter table!

I hope that you try making "Faux"berge eggs this year!!!

adhesive: Design Adhesives - Leaf Nouveau and French Swirl, Be Creative Tape Sheets

accessories: Grasshopper Microfine Glitter, Limeburst Designer Foil, 3" Nest, Circle Borders Lifestyle Crafts Die, Smooth Clear Round Gemstones, Opaque White Embossing Powder, Peeled Paint Distress Stain

VIDEO TUTORIAL: Glittered Copics by Julie Ebersole

 

*click on the pics to en-biggan*

Dazzling, aren't they?! Wanna learn how? Well, snag a nice hot cuppa, 'cuz we have a video tutorial for you to enjoy!

I'm certain there's a name for this technique, but I just called it Glittered Copics.  It combines the Burnished Velvet technique, but instead of using colored glitters, you can create a gorgeous, almost stained glass effect, by coloring the glitter with your Copic Markers!

Some things to note, as mentioned in the video:

Micro-fine Glitter will perform best, as will Copic Sketch (or Ciao) Markers.  You really need the flexibility of the brush nib for optimal results with this technique.

 

 

Two methods are shown--after trying them both, I think I personally preferred the first one over the second, but either will work well.  It's always nice to have options, tho, don't you agree?! *chuckle*

All the supplies & materials featured are listed below.

Enjoy watching here, or on YouTube in High Definition!

•••••••••••••••

•••••••••••••••

SUPPLIES:

Stamps: Hero Arts Cling Dot Flower Pattern (used on the mat layer of the yellow card)

Paper:  Memory Box Parsley, Mango; Hero Arts Sunshine Layering Paper; Black Card Stock; Neenah Solar White Card Stock

Ink:  Adirondack Sunset Orange

Copic Sketch Markers: YR68 Orange; Golden Yellow; Y000 Pale Lemon; YG03 Yellow Green; YG17 Grass Green; YG67 Moss

Tools:  Making Memories Ribbon Slot Punch Tips; Be Creative Tape 2.5" wide;

Embellishments: Orange hued ribbons (from my stash); Elizabeth Craft Peel-Off Stickers (Leaves from) Bowls of Cherries, Black; Elizabeth Craft Peel-Off Stickers (Flowers from) Flower Window, Black; Glitter Ritz Transparent Micro-fine Glitter in Warm Highlights (or Cool Highlights, or White)

Other:  3D-Dots

Lemon Drop Love

When we first received in these fun little alphabet dies I fell in love with the project pictured with the Lemon Drop die, where the word "hi" is accentuated. I realized that the letter placement of this fabulous little alphabet from Lifestyle Crafts would make a very cute Valentine as well and if you leave off the heart it would make a cute little thank you (I owe you - or I O U) for a favor received.

There are a ton of different ways to highlight the letters in this alphabet "background." I love sparkle and so I opted to use glitter to create the focal sentiment, but you could also pop out all the letters and highlight certain ones by placing different colored cardstock behind the letter or color in different letters with your markers, or cut out different colored cardstock with the die and pop out the white ones inserting the colored ones. SO MANY options - I love it!

Run the alphabet die through your die cut machine being very careful to keep it on a firm, flat surface when moving it. Then using tweezers remove the letters you want to highlight.

Apply Be Creative (Sookwang) tape to the back side of your letter sheet as shown above.

Apply a piece of Be Creative Tape to the back side of another piece of Neenah Cardstock and cut out the letters you would like to highlight. Remove the tape backing, apply glitter and burnish (or gently rub) the glitter into the surface of the tape. Insert the letters in your large letter background.

Apply glitter strips using Be Creative Tape in the 1/4" width.

Place a Hero Arts pearl heart in the center of the O. Highlighting the O with silver glitter allowed me to frame the sweet little heart to draw more attention to it. Once again a very simple, sweet design for the Valentine in your life.

Tip: This particular alphabet is scaled beautifully for creating sentiments on your card fronts with the die cut letters and Ann, one of the lovely ladies here at work pointed out that the quotation marks would make fabulous little molars for a tooth fairy card or page! So fun!!!

Thank you for joining me here again in the CLASSroom - have a fabulous weekend!

paper: Galvanized Curious Metallic Cardstock, Neenah Classic Crest Solar White

accessories: Lifestyle Crafts Lemon Drop Alphabet, Glitter Ritz - Fire Red and Silver, Be Creative (Sookwang) Tape 4 1/2" and 1/4", Hero Arts Pearl Heart

Anniversary Celebration: Back In Time Challenge by Sharon Harnist

For this challenge, we would like for you to go "Back in Time" through the blog posts on any one of our blogs and choose a project that you can use to inspire a new version of that project.

Ever since Ellen introduced us to the Burnished Velvet (glitter) technique, I've loved doing it . . . what's not to love about glitter?!!  In this CLASSroom blog post last September, Ellen shared a fabulous Halloween/Fall card with the technique. In that blog post, you'll find links to a few other projects with the Burnished Velvet technique and complete instructions for the Burnished Velvet technique in THIS InTouch post.  

Here's my updated version for a sweet polar bear Christmas card:

(Click on any photo for a larger view and to see the sparkles!)

The quick and easy steps:

1. Stamp Memory Box's sweet Fredward Bear with Memento Tuxedo Black ink onto Neenah Solar White cardstock; color the bear's scarf with Copic R81 and R85 Sketch markers.

2. Die cut bear with Memory Box Fredward Bear die.

3. Die cut a piece of Be Creative sheet adhesive with bear die. Peel off protective film from bottom side of tape and adhere to colored image.

4. Peel protective film from front side of tape and cover with Glitter Ritz's Transparent Micro Fine Warm Highlights glitter; burnish glitter into tape with finger. 

5. Alternately, while protective film is still on front of colored image, carefully use a craft knife to cut around bear's scarf and remove protective film. Cover exposed area of tape/scarf with your choice of colored Gitter Ritz glitter; burnish with finger. Remove rest of protective film from bear and cover with White Opaque glitter; burnish with finger.

6. Stamp Karen Lockhart's Season's Greetings stamp with Adirondack Watermelon dye ink onto Neenah Solar White cardstock and trim into a banner shape.

7. Paint Maya Road Mini Chipboard Snowflake with Claudine Hellmuth Studio Acrylic Paint-Blank Canvas and sprinkle with Flora Craft Twinklets Diamond Dust. Allow to dry.

8. Cut two pieces of Memory Box Yuletide 6x6 patterned cardstock and adhere to a Memory Box Cherry Blossom Notecard. Assemble card.

We can't wait to see your "Back In Time" projects!  ~ Sharon

Stamps: Memory Box Fredward Bear, Lockhart Stamp Co-Seasons Greetings, 
Dies: Memory Box Die Fredward Bear, 
Paper: Neenah Solar White cardstock; Memory Box Yuletide 6x6 patterned cardstock, Cherry Blossom Notecard,
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black; Ranger Adirondack Watermelon dye ink; 
Copic Sketch Markers: R81 & R85,
Accessories: Sookwang Be Creative Tape, Glitter Ritz Microfine Glitter-Transparent Warm Highlights; Maya Road Mini Chipboard Sets: Snowflakes; Flora Craft Twinklets Diamond Dust; Claudine Hellmuth Studio Acrylic Paint-Blank Canvas; 

---

Find a project here on the CLASSroom that inspires you and create your card or project based on that post! Once you have completed your project please be certain to link it using InLinkz below. You have until 11:59pm Pacific Time Wednesday, November 30th to complete your project. All entries will be included in a random drawing for the special prize package shown above.

Serene Snowfall by Julie Ebersole

*click on images to enlarge*

This beautiful Bare Oak Tree by Memory Box is so perfect for a winter-time scene, altho it could also make a great Halloween scene, too! :)  I must admit, I love images that have a lot of flexibility and I even have a spring/summer scene in my head that it would be perfect for!

If you're mailing out a lot of cards this holiday season, you may want to consider a design that is flat, but still has enough sha-zaaaam! to inspire the recipient to oooooh and aaaaaaah, UKWIM?!

This is such an easy way to achieve that and one of my favorite types of holiday designs!

After embossing the tree with Versamark and clear powder, I placed a torn strip of paper to act as a mask--this will help define the horizon line in the scene.  Tearing the edge can give you an artfully rustic effect, but if you wanted a more graphic look, you could cut a smooth edge.

I sponged Aqua dye ink over it all to create the "sky"--love the subtle hue of this particular shade.

After removing the mask, you can see the the snow-covered ground all around the tree.

To add some interest and a punch of color, I laid down some narrow tape flush along all four edges.

I removed one liner paper at a time, and then burnished this gaaaaw-jus shade of glitter into the tape with my finger tips. This micro-fine glitter gives fantastic coverage, creating an elegant sparkly look that is smooth and velvety (is that possible?  Smooth & velvety at the same time?! *chuckle*)

A quick hand-written greeting, and I couldn't resist creating some "snowfall" with a white gel pen, and then mounting the finished panel to a silver metallic card base.

Yes, I oooohed and aaaaahed when I finished it! :)

Thanks for stopping by the CLASSroom today!  Have you started your holiday cards yet?

•••••••••••••••••••

Supplies & Materials:

Bare Oak Tree by Memory Box
Versamark
Clear Embossing Powder
Adirondack Dye Ink Pad, Aqua
Be Creative Tape, 1/8"
Galvanized Silver Cardstock
Regal Red Glitter Ritz, Microfine
Copic Multiliner SP, 0.3 Black
Uni-ball White Gel Pen

WCMD 2011 - Holiday Card Challenge by Ellen Hutson (EHWCMD2)

Welcome! We are now on to challenge #2 and we are going to get you working on your holiday cards!

What could be more fun then combining a current trend with a holiday card? Ombre is everywhere - fashion, home decor and most definitely paper crafting! So for today's card I wanted to share how to create a very sparkly ombre look.

 

I am loving the Memory Box dies and used three separate dies for this project - the Classic Ornament, Crisp Bows and Bitty Scallops. Doesn't this Crisp Bow make THE perfect ornament hanger when turned upside down? (I am going to let you in on a little secret - we have another brand new release arriving soon and you are going to LOVE what is in store --- yes, I have to tease just a little. I wish I could share the details, but I'm sworn to secrecy. Watch Facebook for updates in the next couple of weeks! :-D)

 

To begin I adhered some Be Creative Tape to a piece of Natural White cardstock and then diecut the ornament in the Vagabond.

Remove the backing and apply glitter to one half of the sticky shape. Carefully pick it up and gently shake the glittered surface to disperse the glitter unevenly into the center section. Then dump the remaining glitter off the surface avoiding the lower half of the ornament. Burnish only the top 1/3 of the ornament with your finger to embed the glitter into the sticky surface, leaving the center section untouched.

Leaving this center section alone will allow the second color of glitter to join in with this first color for a perfect ombre look. 

 

Add the second glitter color on the lower half and shake the ornament ever so slightly to allow the red glitter to mix with the center section. Again dump the excess glitter off the lower edge of the ornament to avoid getting red glitter on the top 1/3 of the ornament.

Your project should look similar to the photo above. Now burnish (burnishing means to rub the glittery surface with your finger --- by rubbing the surface with your finger you will embed the glitter in to the adhesive and achieve a beautiful, velvet like surface) the entire ornament surface. I went back over the surface several times with my finger to make certain the glitter was firmly embedded in the adhesive before proceeding with the next step. I did not want any stickiness to be left for the gold leaf to affix to. 

 
Adding dimension to this glittery surface is easy when using Design Adhesives. I like to cut the individual shapes out of the adhesive strip before applying to make it easier to keep my designs separated.

Remove the backing from the adhesive element and position. Place the backing behind the ornament and then press the adhesive firmly against the glitter surface and rub in to place using your finger.

 

Trim away excess adhesive and remove the backing to leave adhesive exposed.

Apply gold leaf flakes to all the exposed Design Adhesive elements and press the gold leaf flakes firmly into the adhesive using your finger.

The easiest method of removing the excess gold leaf from your project is to use an inexpensive bristle brush as shown above. Swirl the brush over the surface of your ornament and the bristles will remove the excess gold leaf and at the same time burnish the gold leaf into the adhesive. There is nothing that looks as elegant and expensive as gold leaf!

TIP: Collect excess gold leaf in a tupperware container and save for use next time! It is incredible how long this product will last if you save your bits and reuse!

 

Can you imagine this glitter ombre technique as a sky behind a manger scene, beautiful evergreen trees, Christmas bells... the list goes on and on, and on!

So now it's your turn - head into your craft room and pull out your holiday season celebration stamps and papers. Create a card or project for Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and/or any celebration your family recognizes during the holiday season! Join in the fun!!!
 
stamps: Hero Arts Music Collage

ink: Adirondack Meadow Dye Ink, Antique Linen Distress Ink

paper: Neenah Classic Crest Natural White, Graphic 45 Christmas Emporium 8x8 Paper Pad, Memory Box Crimson Notecard

accessories: Glitter Ritz - Apple Red & Kiwi Green, Be Creative Tape, Fancy Frames Design Adhesive, Gold Leaf Flakes, Memory Box Dies - Classic Ornament, Crisp Bows, and Bitty Scallop, Pearls

---

HOLIDAY CARD CHALLENGE

We hope that this challenge helps give you a jump start on your holiday cards :-D Create a card to use this upcoming holiday season!

Once you have completed this challenge please be certain to link directly to that specific project in our WCMD Challenge Blog Candy post!

BLOG CANDY

What is your favorite current trend and do you see it reflected in the paper crafting world? Be certain to leave your answer in the comment section on this post to be entered in a random drawing for the following goodies.

 

All comments must be made by 11:59pm Pacific Time on Sunday, October 2nd to be eligible.

Paper Smooches Croppin', Hoppin' and Halloweenie Fun

September is right around the corner and with it comes the fall buzz for all fun and crafty "Halloweenie" things. This new set from Paper Smooches debuts on September 1st, so you will not find it in the store until that date. BUT I have a special surprise for you! We are using it today in our Warehouse Crop and we do not want you to feel left out. Read through this post and share which Paper Smooches set is your favorite with us in the comments section to be included in this random drawing for an opportunity to win your very own set!

 

This little witchie just make one grin - yes, she is a cute ghoul - ha! ha!

To color her I used Copic colors - YG11, YG25, YG00, W00, R02, R08, YR16, YR68, YR09, 100 and V04.

Her hat and dress are paper pieced with the spidery paper from the Graphic 45 Hallowe'en in Wonderland 8x8 collection. Then using a White Pastel Pencil I added color around the "edges" of the design to add depth. Use the Clear Glaze pen to add shine to her lips and the blacks of her eyes. A yellow Spica Glitter Pen was used on the orange in her socks and the buckle on her hat. It is amazing how much these little details help to create a special image.

 

Tip: When cutting out fine details such as the heels on the witches boot cut out the areas that have the most delicate parts first. To have the added stability of the remaining cardstock will help you keep them in pristine condition.

Then using a black marker color over the cut out portion - this helps eliminate any white spots!

Every witch needs a sparkly moon. When airbrushing I like to create a mask that does not "buffet" in the "breeze." To diecut Eclipse tape, my favorite paper masking material,  I affix the Eclipse to a piece of typing paper or cardstock and then cut out the image. In this case I used the Memory Box Flower Mound die - I felt it created a delightful moon background :-D

Firmly affix it to your moon. 

Airbrush with several colors to create a fabulous color combination - I used YR09, YR68 and YR16. 

Remove mask and reveal your fun new moon. 
 

To adhere the Be Creative (Sookwang) tape to your project simply place the moon face down on to the adhesive surface. Using the Fiskars fingertip knife I run it around the exterior of my circle, cutting through the adhesive. Then use your finger to easily roll the excess adhesive away.

Use Warm Highlights glitter and the Burnished Velvet technique (read more about that technique here if you don't remember the details) bring your moon to life.
 

One of the advantages to clear stamps is the ease of cutting the sentiments and customizing them. "hey cute ghoul" comes as one long piece. I wanted to create a shorter, stacked version, so I simply cut it between the words rounding the edges on the end.
 

To then be able to determine the fit makes it so easy to use.
 

Stamp the background using Deep Violet ink, add a few bats (sorry this is an old Martha Stewart punch I just couldn't resist using) and a gemstone for balance and bling.

 
Now don't forget to leave a comment below telling us what your favorite Paper Smooches stamp set is! You have until midnight Sunday, August 28th to be included in this random drawing for the Paper Smooches Halloweenie set!

 
stamps: Paper Smooches Halloweenie (stamp set will be available here in our store on September 1st), Hero Arts Cling Classic Fabric Design

ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Archival Deep Purple

paper: Memory Box Granny Smith Notecard, Cantaloupe & Lavender Cardstock, Neenah Solar White

accessories: Memory Box Chadwick Label Die, Citron Gemstone, Clear Glaze Pen, Lemon Spica Glitter Pen, White Pastel Pencil, 4 1/2" Be Creative Tape (Sookwang) or Tape Sheets, Warm Highlights Glitter, Eclipse Tape,

Maribelle Burnished Velvet Butterfly Tag

Today I wanted to share a project created using the beautiful Memory Box Maribelle and Selena Butterfly Dies, as well as the lovely Butterfly Delights Die. Having always loved butterflies these dies are ones I am having SO much fun creating with. Over the next few days I hope to share several other methods of creating using these dies, so be certain to stay tuned for more ideas --- I couldn't help myself :-D

 

Burnished Velvet is a technique that we have shared numerous posts here on our blogs. By using the search mechanism located in the upper right hand corner of the blog the following posts and typing in the words "burnished velvet" these posts came up to refresh your memory.

 

To begin today's project I covered Craft-a-Board with Be Creative Tape. These low profile dies will typically cut all the way through Craft-a-Board, but not when adding extra layers of adhesive or decorative paper. Using the Selena Die I ran it through my Vagabond first and then completed the cut with the Fiskars Fingertip Knife --- it was super easy to cut through the remaining thickness!

Cut out the Black Outline of the Maribelle Butterfly from Black Glossy cardstock.

 

Remove the tape backing, position the Maribelle Butterfly exactly over top the Selena Butterfly, and use the backing to press the outline firmly in to place.

Sprinkle Grasshopper glitter on to a portion of the wings and shake off excess. 
 

Apply Peacock Blue glitter to the outside edges of the wings and shake off excess.

Next apply Ice Blue glitter over the remaining uncovered portion and remove.

I then came back over the Peacock Blue portion and a slight portion of the Ice Blue with more Peacock Blue glitter and burnished it in place. This allowed for some of the Peacock Blue to mix with the Ice Blue and help soften the line. I know with practice I would be able to get a better gradation between the colors, but this was my first attempt and I felt that it I should share some of my "imperfections" with you. This way you can see that I don't always get it right - LOL! 

Repeat on the opposite side with the Grasshopper glitter.

I LOVE this beautiful sparkly butterfly! 

To create the tag I first cut out my tag using the Tags and Bookmarks die from Tim Holtz. I then positioned the Butterfly Delights die atop the tag, holding it in place using tissue tape, and created the cut outs. I love the border dies that create tese fabulous cut outs - you can then use the little butterflies to flutter them about on another project or put them into your gift bag as confetti.

As I said earlier, stay tuned for more fun ways to create using these gorgeous butterfly dies!
 

paper: Memory Box Key Lime Distressed Dots, Glossy Black Cardstock, Craft-a-Board

accessories: Memory Box Dies - Selena, Maribelle, Butterfly Delights; Tim Holtz Tag and Bookplates Die, Maya Road Turquoise Ruffle Edge Trim and Sheer Scrolls Ribbon, Be Creative (Sookwang) Tape, Grasshopper, Ice Blue and Peacock Blue Glitter Ritz

Framed Stencil Flower by Sharon Harnist

Today I wanted to show how you can easily create an easel frame for any sized project.

I started this framed piece of artwork with this fabulous Hero Arts Cling-Stencil Flower stamp.  I stamped it with Memento Tuxedo Black ink onto Copic's X-Press It Blending Card and colored it with the RV series of Copic Sketch Markers listed below, which matches the smaller flowers on the patterned paper I chose. I cut out the flower and then stamped and colored an additional flower, which I cut out only the center of, and stacked it with foam tape on top of the whole flower.

I loved this piece of Webster's 6x6 Petite Trendsetter paper and wanted to used the whole piece -- as opposed to cutting it down to fit into whatever sized frame I might have on hand (and probably not the right color!).  So this is what I did:

I rounded the corners of the 6-inch patterned paper using Crop-a-Dile's Corner Chomper.  Then I cut 6.25" pieces of Ellen's Craft-A-Board and the fabulous new Core-dinations Color Core Cardstock-Black and adhered the black cardstock on the Craft-a-Board, to create a sturdy base.  The patterned paper was matted with a 6-1/8" piece of Neenah Natural White cardstock and then adhered with foam tape on top of the black base.

To create the easel for the back of the frame, I just used a photo frame I had on hand and traced the shape onto Craft-a-Board and cut it out:

 

If I had thought far enough ahead, I probably would have used brads to secure the easel to the back of the Craft-a-Board frame before adhering the patterned paper to the front, but I didn't!  So instead, I scored 1/2" from the top of the easel and then used Ranger's Mini Glossy Accents to adhere the easel to the back of the frame -- this stuff will hold ANYthing with a fabulous permanent bond!

Make sure to line up the bottom edge of the easel with the bottom corner of your frame, so it will stand up correctly (mine IS aligned -- it just appears not to be, because it's folded up a little).

To create the small glittered frame around the "be true" sentiment printed on the patterned paper, I used two smaller Spellbinders Labels Thirteen Nestabilities dies and die cut a frame from sturdy cardstock:

Then I used the same YG63 Copic marker I used on the flower and colored the die cut cardstock frame -- be sure you color the outside as well as the inside edges of the frame, for a nice finish.  This just ensures that none of the white cardstock frame base will show through the glitter.  Then I ran the frame through my Xyron machine, covering it in adhesive, and applied the Glitter Ritz Opaque Micro Fine Chartreuse Glitter glitter.

The frame was popped up with foam tape over the sentiment and the large flower accented with Ranger Star Dust Stickles.

Now just think of all the different sizes and shapes of easel framed artwork (or scrapbook pages!) you can create . . . Enjoy! ~ Sharon

Stamps: Hero Arts Cling-Stencil Flower,
Paper: Copic X-Press It Blending Card, Webster's 6x6 Petite Papers-Trendsetter, Core-dinations Colore Core Cardstock-Black, Neenah Natural White cardstock
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black,
Copic Markers: RV13, RV14, RV17, RV19, YG63, T5
Accessories: Essentials by Ellen Craft-A-Board, Spellbinders Labels Thirteen Nestabilities dies, Glitter Ritz Opaque Micro Fine Glitter-Chartreuse, Ranger Star Dust Stickles and Mini Glossy Accents, Crop-a-Dile Corner Chomper, Tonic Tim Holtz Non-Stick Serrated Scissors, Scrapbook Adhesives 3D Foam Squares,

Love is in the Air #3 - Copic Stained Glitter Hero Heart

Today's tag takes yet another totally different twist! What is more perfect than a VERY glittery heart for Valentine's day? I have been wanting to try this for some time now and I can hardly wait to share this idea with you, so here goes...

 

You all know how much I love my Copic markers - LOL! This particular technique has been brewing in my head, but hadn't been realized on paper and so I am excited to share it with you today.

This is a perfectly girly project --- I hope you enjoy it :-D

Begin by applying Be Creative (Sookwang) tape to Neenah Solar White cardstock. Remove the lining from the tape and cover the entire sticky surface with warm highlights glitter. Use your finger to burnish the glitter into the surface of the adhesive. As you burnish, the glitter becomes firmly embedded, and it will not come off onto your marker when you color --- so be certain to firmly burnish the entire surface!

 

Because I wanted my stamped image to have a slightly raised, glossy embossed surface I removed the stickiness and static from my surface with the Puff Static Away before proceeding.

This next step is one that I had to try several different inks before determining the best way to stamp my image on to the glittery surface. I tried a wide range of ink pads with lack-lustre success before deciding to try the Studio Line of paints. I placed a small dollop of black paint on my non-stick craft sheet and then used my ink blending tool as an applicator. Simply dab the foam surface on the ink blending tool into your paint until the foam is completely covered. Transfer the paint to your stamp by simply dabbing on the stamp image surface.

While the paint is still wet immediately cover the image with clear embossing powder. Heat until the powder melts and becomes shiny and clear. The awesome thing about the Be Creative tape is that heat does NOT affect it - yeah!!!

 

Begin by coloring with your lightest Copic colors - the result is almost ethereal. When coloring on the glitter I used a VERY light touch, working carefully so that I would not damage the tip of my marker on this slightly rough surface. When burnished well the surface does become incredibly smooth and velvety, so be certain to burnish well before starting.

 

Add deeper colors and come back in over top with your lighter colors to blend. The gemstones add that final special, sparkly touch!

 

Copic colors used: RV00, RV17, BG11, BG15, BV02, BV04, YG00, YG23, 100

 

The next step is to develop the accent strip. Once again I am using a Burnished Velvet masking technique. Begin by punching a design in the Be Creative (Sookwang) tape backing as shown above. Apply a strip of 1/2" tape and remove the backing. Place the mask over the exposed surface and using another piece of backing affix mask as shown below.

 

Apply Warm Highlights glitter and remove excess. Burnish glitter before removing mask.

 

Apply a second mask as shown above - this mask was added to define the letters shown above. I could have cut out each letter and applied them with tweezers, but by doing this in two steps it was SO much easier. Apply Warm Highlights glitter on exposed edge and burnish in place.

 

Remove mask and apply glitter to exposed sticky surface (this will highlight the "x & o"). Remove excess glitter and burnish.

 

Color one pin with Copic marker RV17 - I just love how easy it is to make coordinating embellishments with my Copic markers!

 

So there you have it - one VERY sparkley love tag. This technique almost has the appearance of stained glass, therefore the title "stained glitter."

Tomorrow is the last tag in our mini-series... I can tell you that you WILL want to join us on Valentine's for the last of our Love is in the Air series and you may just want to share your thoughts between now and then ;-D

 
stamps: Hero Arts Cling Hearts and Flowers

ink: Copic Markers - RV00, RV17, BG11, BG15, BV02, BV04, YG00, YG23, 100

paper: Memory Box Taffy CS and Pixie 6x6 Paper Pack, Neenah Solar White CS

accessories: Tim Holtz Tag and Bookplate Die, Be Creative (Sookwang) Tape Sheets and 1/2" (12mm), Warm Highlights and Ice Blue Microfine Glitter Ritz, EK Success Arrow Border Edger Punches, Martha Stewart Hugs and Kisses Edger Punch, Studio Charcoal Black Paint, Ink Blending Tool, Clear Embossing Powder, Adelaide Seam Binding, Heart Trinket Pin

Love is in the Air #1 - Shimmer Sheetz Texture

Today starts the first of our 4 Tags of Love series for 2011! We would like to welcome you once again to our little tag mini series where we focus on some fun techniques and share them in a love-filled tag format. I can tell you that each tag will be VERY different from the next, so I hope you will continue to join me for the full series.

 

Today's tag is inspired by a technique that I learned while at CHA from Judy Kauffman, the creator of Shimmer Sheetz. I cannot begin to tell you how amazing this background looks in real life! The combination of the Shimmer Sheetz and the Glitter Ritz is incredible! I wish that I would have the ability to better capture this in photos, so you are just going to have to trust me that it just makes you say... WOW!

 

To begin attach Be Creative Sookwang tape to a piece of Neenah Classic Crest Solar White cardstock. Using a teflon bone folder or a brayer go over the entire surface to adhere the adhesive well. Then cut out your tag.

Cut a piece of Shimmer Sheetz to fit slightly larger than the size of the tag. Run the Shimmer Sheetz through an embossing folder, I used Tim's Damask Texture Fades.

 

Next remove the tape backing and affix the Shimmer Sheetz to the sticky surface. Place on your work surface and brayer over the entire surface to adhere the raised surface of the Shimmer Sheetz to your cardstock tag.
 

Carefully remove the Shimmer Sheetz from the tag surface doing your best not to finger print the sticky surface of the tag. I like to use my teflon bone folder as I work to help hold the tag as I remove the Shimmer Sheetz. As you remove the "sheetz" you will note that the surface of the mylar sheet is attached to the tape only in the portions that were raised.

Now for a little magic!

 

For a high contrast look use Black Glitter Ritz and dump it over the entire surface of the tag. Tap to remove excess.

 

Then use your finger to embed the glitter into the adhesive --- remember, this is the burnished velvet technique (you can read more about burnished velvet here.)

As you can see I made two tags - note the subtle difference. By flipping the Shimmer Sheetz and using the opposite side you get the reverse image.

Can you imagine the possibilities?!? Tone on tone, high contrast, Perfect Pearls rather than glitter... I can hardly wait to hear what you think and when you try it I would LOVE to see your projects - so be certain to share them in the Gallery!

 

Are you tired of me sharing the wonders of Craft-a-Board yet? LOL! I wanted to keep my focal point simple so that the background would not get lost.

I stamped this gorgeous Iron Orchard Designs image from Unity Stamps using a Pearl Paint Dabber and allowed it to dry.

 

My first attempt I misted the Craft-a-Board with Cranberry Color Wash. I felt it was just a hair too dark and so decided to experiment with the Color Wash. By mixing 1/2 Color Wash and 1/2 water the intensity of the color was reduced to perfection!

Hmmm - can you imagine the beautiful range of monochromatic colors you can create!

 
I then cut around the image and inked the edges using an ink blending tool and Concord Grape distress ink, stitched some silk ribbon to the tag and affixed some gemstones and this darling Whimsy Heart (LOVE these!)

The last step was to punch a butterfly from the remaining Shimmer Sheetz. Yes, Shimmer Sheetz can be die cut and punched! Imagine the possibilities!

I would love to hear from you! Have you ever worked with Shimmer Sheetz before and if so what did you create with them? Thank you for joining me here for my first of four tags!
 
stamps: Unity Stamps Iron Orchird Designs - Be Still Beloved Collection

ink: Dusty Concord Distress Ink

paper: Neenah Classic Crest Solar White, Essentials by Ellen Craft-a-Board

accessories: Iridescent Pink Shimmer Sheetz, Black Glitter Ritz, Be Creative (Sookwang) 4 1/2" Tape or Tape Sheet, Webster's Pages Pink Heart Whimsy, Black and Pink Gemstone Crystals, Martha Stewart Classic Butterfly Punch, Damask Texture Fades Embossing Folder

Valentine Chandelier by Sharon Harnist

I must admit this wasn't my original idea -- I recently came across this wonderful Valentine Chandelier and wanted to make my own version of it -- a little more vintage-themed one, so here's my take on it!  Sorry these photos are not better -- it's hard to get a good photo of things that are constantly turning and twisting!

For the base of the chandelier, I used one chipboard heart "page" from Maya Road's Heart Chipboard Album:

These hearts are a nice size -- approximately 6.50" at the widest point and almost 6.25" tall.  With eight "pages", you can either make a lot of these type of projects, or a very full Valentine album!  Alternately, you could use some of Ellen's Craft-a-Board or Crystal Clear Plastic to fashion whatever shape you'd like your chandelier to have.  That's what I was originally going to do, until I saw how nice and large this heart album was!

I covered the chipboard heart with patterned papers from 7 Gypsies' Lille 6x6 paper pack -- I love the warm tones and vintage collage style of these papers!

The 6-inch paper will not quite cover all of the heart chipboard -- it must be turned at an angle into the corner of the paper and then just some tiny slivers of the chipboard will still show.  The rose trim I used around the edge of the heart chipboard shape finished covering the chipboard just fine. But if this bothers you, the Lille papers are also available in a larger 8-inch size!

 

I trimmed the edge of the heart with Cream Small Organza Roses, adhered with Copic's X-Press It Double-Sided High Tack Tape (shown below is the top side of my paper-covered chipboard heart, untrimmed and the bottom side, shown trimmed with the cream roses):

 

For the photos, I used Ellen's fabulous selection of Assorted Doilies:

See those cute heart doilies in the pack?  They are the perfect size (approximately 4" x 4") for about a 2.50" x 3" photo!  So I made them into "frames" by cutting my black & white photos into heart shapes and adding some Zva Clear Swirl Crystals to dress them up: 

 

I backed the doilies with patterned paper, to give them more stability & weight, and make them pretty on the reverse side, too!  I sponged some Antique Linen Distress Ink on the white doilies, so they would match the vintage patterned papers a little better.  Instructions for the red tissue flowers are below with the Bingo card and the little "love bird" was die cut with Spellbinders smallest Nested Bird die set.

 

I used a Jenni Bowlin Red Adore Mini Bingo Card and since the back of it is plain white, I machine stitched more of the Lille paper onto the back and then trimmed the edges with pinking shears.

 

To accent the front of the Bingo card, I made a tissue flower by die cutting several layers of red tissue paper with Spellbinders Nested Peony dies.  After die cutting, just stack the layers of tissue paper together and secure them in the center (I used Tim Holtz's Tiny Attacher) and cover the staple with a large pearl or rhinestone.  Then fluff up the layers of tissue paper -- quick and easy!  Alternately, you could use a brad to secure the center of the flower.

The "wonky" hanging hearts were die cut with Tim Holtz's Heart Wing Bigz Die (shown below): 

from Memory Box Cranberry cardstock (solid heart) and then topped with the swirly heart die cut from Lille papers (these are two separate shapes on the die):

 

More solid hearts were die cut from Memory Box's Red Biscotti cardstock, aged with Antique Linen Distress Ink so they would match the Lille papers better, and accented with red gemstones. To make it quick and easy to die cut matching images (that you want to have a nice front and back), fold the cardstock in half (Memory Box is colored on one side and white on the back), so the white is on the inside. After die cutting, just adhere these two mirror images together and you'll have a colored heart on both sides! To adhere smaller die cuts like the swirly heart above, I like to use a mini bottle of Ranger's Glossy Accents -- it's a great liquid glue!  The bottle is easier to hold, the small applicator makes it easy to control the "glue" in tight spaces, and it dries quickly.  The double heart at the bottom of the photo above was cut on the fold of the cardstock and then opened up and backed with another piece of patterned cardstock.

 

If you've never used any of Tim's or Sizzix's Bigz dies and don't have either Sizzix's or Tim's die cutting machines but have a Cuttlebug, these dies work perfectly and easily in it!  I just use a Cuttlebug B plate on either side of the die and get perfect cuts every time, even with cardstock doubled like I've done here.

 

The birds were die cut with Spellbinders Nested Bird die, again from doubled Memory Box Cranberry cardstock, and I made the wings from Tim Holtz's Heart Wings Bigz Die!

To assemble the the chandelier, I lined up all my elements in four different columns and played with the placement.  Then I threaded an embroidery needle with fishing line and strung each of the four lines separately, leaving enough fishing line at the top and bottom of each string to allow for tying.  Using my Crop-a-Dile, I punched holes at the point of the heart and on the top of the heart, at each of the curves.  A piercing tool was used to place a hole in the center of the heart for the fourth line.

NOTE: When adhering the heart and bird fronts and backs together, I only placed a strong adhesive on the edges and not in the middles, so I would be able to string the fishing line through the centers of the double-sided cardstock shapes.  These "sandwiched" shapes were then easy to slide up and down the fishing line, to determine good placement and then stayed in place very well.

To anchor the doily heart frames to the fishing line (since I had not thought ahead and glued all of the photos and backing papers to the doilies and didn't leave a space through the middles!), I sewed the fishing line through the bottom of the front of the heart, along the back, and then back through the top of the heart to the front side.  Until the exact placement of the frames was determined, this let me slide the frames up and down the fishing line easily:

   

Once the proper placement was determined, I placed Mini Glue dots on the back of the heart frame where the fishing line was "sewn" through the cardstock.  To make the Glue Dot a little prettier, I sprinkled Glitter Ritz Warm Highlights Transparent Microfine glitter over them!

To weight the ends of the fishing line, I used these beautiful Melissa Frances Diamond Chandelier Drops:

 

The Chandelier Drops also help to weight each line, so they hang nicely.  And the darling butterflies are Jenni Bowlin Vellum Embellished Butterflies in Red! 

Finally, to make the hanger at the top of my chandelier, I used ivory satin ribbon threaded through each of the three outer holes (knotted separately on the bottom of the heart base) and knotted them together at the top. I hope I've explained the construction of this chandelier well - if not, please let me know if the comments and I'll answer your questions! Thanks for visiting the CLASSroom today!  ~ Sharon

 

Paper: 7 Gypsies-Lille 6x6 paper pack, Memory Box Cranberry Cardstock & Cranberry Biscotti Cardstdock; Essentials by Ellen Assorted Doilies, 
Ink: Ranger Tim Holtz Distress Ink-Antique Linen,
Copic Markers
Tools: Tim Holtz Bigz Die-Heart Wings; Spellbinders Nested Bird & Nested Peony die templates; WRM Crop-a-Dile, Tim Holtz Tiny Attacher,
Accessories: Jenni Bowlin Vellum Embellished Butterflies-Red & Mini Bingo Cards-Red; Maya Road Chipboard Album-Heart; Prima Small Organza Roses-Cream; Melissa Frances Chandelier Drops-Diamond; Hero Arts Assorted Gemstones-Red; Ranger Ink Blending Tool & Mini Glossy Accents; 3/8" Glue Dots; Glue Glider Pro with Perma Tac adhesive, Copic X-Press It High Tack Double-Sided Tape; Zva Clear Swirl Crystals, Glitter Ritz Warm Highlights Transparent Microfine glitter,
Other: fishing line, red tissue paper, pinking shears, sewing machine + ivory thread, embroidery needle

12 Tags of Christmas with a Feminine Twist - Day 12

What an incredibly inspiring two weeks! I have really enjoyed learning more about some of the latest products Tim has designed and his thoughts as to how to use them. Today I played with a ton of ideas that I hope I have time to post about in the days ahead. With limited time I decided I could only finish one tag today - I hope you enjoy this experiment. One of THE most important things I hope you learned this week is to just give things a try, even when you don't know what the result will be. It is this experimentation that allows you to explore your own creativity.

Oh how I wish that I could capture a better photograph of this tag because the sparkle is beyond belief.

I have loved trying to cut all sorts of things with these new dies. Today I wanted to explore with gold foil (you could substitute other foils or metals as well.) I began by adding Be Creative or also known as Sookwang tape to the back side of the gold foil. I then adhered this to Craft-a-Board.

Run it through the Big Shot.

Next place the ornament in an embossing folder and run it through the Big Shot again. The very cool thing about Craft-a-Board is that it adds sturdiness to your projects, but also embosses perfectly!

I am now switching out to the second ornament because I did an additional experiment with the ornament above and I am still waiting for it to dry. I can hardly wait to see what it looks like when I return to work tomorrow!

Using a felt applicator, ink with Various Ink Refills BG72 and B23. Ink back side of ornament.

Drip Various Ink, colors BG72 and B23 (or any other alcohol ink) directly on to face of ornament. Allow it to spread and just blow on it to move it around.

Remove excess ink using felt applicator, leaving plenty of ink on surface. Barely touch the felt to the surface to pull up excess ink. If you leave too much ink on the surface it can have a sticky feel to it.

I loved the way it looked but was still concerned about it being a little sticky and so I sprinkled some holographic embossing powder on the surface and the melted the powder with my Heat It tool.

Oh my, oh my!!! WOW!!! Incredible! You asked for other alcohol ink techniques and I think this is a must try for anyone who likes to experiment.

To balance the bling I cut a piece of backed Be Creative tape (the sheets come backed) using the Scrollwork die. I then cut it slightly smaller than shown above and attached it to the Jovial paper and applied Sand Microfine Glitter Ritz and burnished it in place with my finger (search Burnished Velvet using the search mechanism in the top right hand corner of our blog for more information.)

I then did the same with the reinforcement, inked it with embossing ink and dipped it in UTEE creating a sparkly reinforcement similar to the red one created a couple of days ago. Super blingy I tell you and so pretty!

This is the base tag.

Affix a bling swirl to the ornament, tie on some Vintage Netting and embellish with a Sparkler button, baubles and seam binding.

May your holidays sparkle as much as this tag! Wishing you all a wonderful holiday season ahead!

ink: Copic Various Ink B23 and BG72; Distress Embossing Ink, Adirondack Stream Dye Ink

paper: Basic Gray Jovial 6x6 Paper Pad, Inkssentials Manila Tag #8

accessories: Tim Holtz Carved Ornaments and Scrollwork Dies, Regal Flourish Texture Fades, Bauble; Gold Foil, Craft-a-Board, Be Creative (Sookwang) Tape Sheet, Webster's Pages Vintage Inspired Netting, Vintage Sparkler Button, 7 Gypsies Adelaide Seam Binding, Zva Coffee Flourish, Holographic Embossing Powder, Sand Microfine Glitter Ritz, Clear UTEE

One last day of blog candy! We would like for you to be able to make some of your own ornaments, so we are giving you the Carved Ornaments Die, Damask/Regal Flourishes Texture Fades, and some Craft-a-Board. You will be able to make some VERY cool things using these tools!

The drawing for this tag closed in December 2010. Thank you!

To be eligible for the random drawing for this batch of goodies all you have to do is leave a comment below. I would love to hear what you are most excited about trying from the techniques that, Tim or we shared. We are going to leave this drawing open until Wednesday morning, because Tuesday morning is going to be busy already with Hero Arts drawings. Don't forget to take a quick peek at what we shared on our Hero Arts Scavenger Hunt page and leave us a message!

Remember to get your shopping done before 12/15/2010 midnight if you want to purchase items in our 12 Tags of Christmas category and use the 15% discount promo code - timstags.

Boo Halloween Banner by Julia Stainton

I'm totally loving banners. They are so much fun to create as you can make them as large as you want or start small and add more pennants as you find the time.

Today's project is a Hallowe'en banner for my home. Each of the pennants is 5"x7" and is created on a Jenni Bowlin Bingo Card. I know it's difficult to get an accurate idea of the size and detail as blog width ends up making the banner photo very small. To counter this, I'll be sharing each pennant individually as each is a unique creation in itself. Each pennant is larger than card front size and was so much fun to create. Please click on the smaller images to bring them to their full size for a better look.

To create the banner, each bingo card is decorated. You could stop at this point and create a mini album or a scrapbook page accent but I've punch a hole in the top corners and strung them together with some hem tape ribbon.

To keep continuity in the banner project I repeated a few elements on each design. I wanted each to be unique but still tie the project together.

• each pennant is created from a coordinating Jenni Bowlin Bingo Card
• the edges of each pennant are highlighted by "inking" them with a Black Adirondack Paint Dabber
• each pennant has some Graphic 45 Halloween in Wonderland accents
• each pennant has die cut leaves that I've sponged with distress ink

Now for each of the pennants I'll show you a closeup for the detail and highlight some of the design elements of each one...

• star is created by die-cutting Craft-a-board with the Classic Star Nestability die and then covering it with Melissa Frances Silver Glass Glitter
• a fun Tim Holtz Keyhole accents one of the o's in Boo
• the bat accent is a Tim Holtz Fragment that has been masked with a bat from the Tim Holtz Seasonal Masks and then painted with a Black Paint Dabber

 

• Tim Holtz Tissue tape crossed over the bingo card resembles crime scene tape
• a little Memo Pin holds a Kiwi Chandelier Crystal
• the Paper Rosette Sizzlets die makes a darling black flower rosette from black cardstock

• add dates or word accents with Tiny Type and Graphic 45 letter stickers
• The black cat is another use of the Tim Holtz Seasonal Masks

• Ellen's new Ellen's Essentials Doiles are so much fun to use as an achor for a group of embellishments and accents
• Add a fun chipboard button to the rossette center for extra dimension

• the fun Halloween ticket stamp is one of many occasions found on the Tim Holtz Odds and Ends stamp set
• frame your stamped image by stamping it onto a large kraft ticket

So there you have it.

Lots of fun techniques and ideas to try in one fun project. You could also rework it for a different occasion such as Christmas, a baby shower, or whatever you wish. You can find lots of fabulous and varied Bingo Cards by Jenni Bowlin here to use as a base.

Supplies: Halloween Bingo Cards & Vintage Halloween Chipboard Buttons by Jenni Bowlin, black cardstock, Jabberwocky patterned paper & Halloween in Wonderland Tags by Graphic 45, twine, Silver Glass Glitter by Melissa Frances, Tiny Attacher , Memo Pin and Market Place Tissue Tape by Tim Holtz for Advantus, Pitch Black Paint Dabber, Jet Black Archival Ink, Crushed Olive Distress Ink, Barn Door Distress Ink & Wild Honey Distress Ink by Ranger, Tattered Leaves die by Sizzix, Orange Halloween Felt by Hero Arts, Medallion Flower by Maya Road, Classic Star Nestability Die by Spellbinders, Tim Holtz Odds and Ends Stamp Set by Stampers Anonymous, Tim Holtz Fragment and Hinge Clip by Advantus, Tim Holtz Seasonal Masks, Vintage Pearl Trinket Pin and Leaf Trinket Pins by Maya Road, Paper Rosette Die by Sizzix, Assorted Doilies by Essential's by Ellen

Thanks for stopping by the CLASSroom and happy creating!

World Card Making Day Glitz Challenge by Sharon Harnist (EHWCMD4)

GLITZ CHALLENGE

It's time to get sparkly! I've fallen in love with all the gorgeous colors of Glitter Ritz glitters Ellen carries and wanted to challenge YOU to get sparkly!  Create a project that shimmers and shines in some way, by using your favorite "glitzy" product!  Here's my sample:

 

My card uses a piece of 5.50" x 4.75" Webster's Pages-Hello Beautiful Journaling Card.  I chose this paper because it has quite a few of Ellen's Color Trend challenge colors for today in it!  I mounted a portion of the journaling card onto a Memory Box Crimson notecard.  Then I made a frame by die cutting a piece of Be Creative 8.5" x 11" sheet adhesive with Spellbinders Labels Six die set:

 

I cut another frame from cardstock and adhered the Be Creative frame to that, for stability.  Then I removed the front adhesive liner and did the Burnished Velvet technique by covering the adhesive with Glitter Ritz Opaque Micro Fine Glitter in Ice Blue and rubbing/pressing the glitter into the tape ... what a beautiful look and a quick and easy sparkly frame!

 

Next, I stamped the Hero Arts Create Your Own Journey sentiment with Ranger Adirondack Cranberry dye ink onto Neenah Natural White cardstock, die cut it with the Labels Six die and sponged the edges with Ranger Antique Linen Distress ink.  I topped the sentiment with my glitter frame, popped up on foam tape.  A Webster's chocolate Bloomer finishes my card.  ~ Sharon

 
Stamps: Hero Arts ClearDesign-Life is Not Perfect
Paper: Webster's Pages Journaling Cards-Hello Beautiful Journaling Cards, Memory Box Crimson notecard
Ink: Ranger Adirondack Cranberry dye ink & Antique Linen Distress ink
Accessories: Spellbinders Labels Thirteen, Glitter Ritz Opaque Micro Fine Glitter-Ice Blue, Be Creative 8.5" x 11" sheet adhesive & 5mm tape, Webster's lace trim & Webster's chocolate Bloomer

Once you have completed this challenge be certain to post a comment as well as link to your project, in our WCMD Challenge Blog Candy post! Please be certain to link directly to each project when uploading your link :-D

BLOG CANDY

Do you like sparkle and if so what is your favorite way to make your project shine? Be certain to leave your answer in the comments section below to be entered in a random drawing for the following delicious goodies.

All comments must be made by 11:59pm Pacific Time on Sunday, October 3rd to be eligible.

Fall Scrap Page by Sharon Harnist

I decided it was time for another one of my 6-inch scrapbooking-for-the-fridge magnets, especially since Fall, with its changing leaves, is one of my very favorite times of the year!

 

I've had a piece of corregated cardboard box torn up and waiting for a great idea to hit me on how to use it and I wondered if it could be die cut.  The answer -- most definitely yes!

To start, just cut up any regular old cardboard box into pieces that will fit through your die cut machine, and then peel the layers apart, to reveal the corregation on the inside layers.

Next, I inked the ridges of my piece of cardboard with white pigment ink, just to give it some color variation, and let it dry.  Then I tried die cutting it with Spellbinders Nested Maple Leaf (largest) die: 

 

At first, I thought the sandwich might be too tight and took out the magnetic spacer (or white cutting plate, depending on your Wizard model) piece of my Wizard sandwich but sure enough, it was needed (but a bit tight).  The result was a wonderfully embossed and very well cut leaf!

 

After die cutting and inking the edges of the cardboard leaf with Brushed Corduroy Distress Ink, I cut a piece of Basic Grey Pyrus patterned paper with the middle-sized Nested Maple Leaf die to layer on top of the cardboard leaf.  I sanded the embossed edges of the paper leaf, after inking the edges -- I love this look!  A Hero Arts Fancy Felt Flower and a button tied with twine finish the leaf embellishement.

To finish my page (6 inches, cut from olive Basic Grey Pyrus patterned paper), I added a Jenni Bowlin Vintage Mini Bingo Card and FALL letters die cut with the Sizzix Tim Holtz Vintage Market Alpha die from more Pyrus patterned paper. 

 

TIP: Outline your die cuts with a Copic marker -- this will really help define them and make them jump off your page, instead of blending in, unnoticed!  Here, I used 110-Special Black.  Zig 2-Way Fine Tip Glue Pen makes it easy to glue down small die cuts.

Since I've become addicted to glittered embellishments, I added a scalloped edge on the left side that was made by using Martha Stewart's Scallop Dot edger punch to punch a piece of paper covered with Glitter Ritz Opaque Micro Fine Glitter in Spice Brown!  Hopefully you can see the gorgeous coppery color of the glitter here (although there was some glare on the photos!):

 

Oh, and I can't forget the film strip of photos I printed of my sweet (most of the time!) daughters!  By adhering Inchie Arts Inchie Magnets on the back of my 6-inch page, it becomes refrigerator art, holding the school lunch menu or other important school papers we refer to each day!  When the season is over, place the page in a brag book album.

Thanks for stopping by the CLASSroom today ... I hope Fall is on the way to wherever you live! ~ Sharon

 
Paper: Basic Grey Pyrus patterned papers, Jenni Bowlin Mini Bingo Cards-Vintage,
Ink: Ranger Adirondack Snow Cap Pigment ink pad & Brushed Corduroy Distress Ink; Copic 110-Special Black
Accessories: Spellbinders Nested Maple Leaf die set, Sizzix Tim Holtz Vintage Market Alpha dies, Martha Stewart Scallop Dot edger punch, Hero Arts Fancy Felt Flowers-Neutral, Glitter Ritz Opaque Micro Fine Glitter-Spice Brown, Jillibean Soup Twine-Brown, Zig 2-Way Fine Tip Glue Pen, Inchie Arts Inchie Magnets, Sanding Block, Button,
Other: corregated cardboard box

Ice Resin Meets Vintaj Brass by Debbie Olson

Welcome! Today I have another Ice Resin piece to share with you, this time used in conjunction with some pretty Vintaj Brass and a Swarovski Crystal center. 

For the Ice Resin piece I used the same procedures that I showed in this article. I chose the earrings jewelry mold to mold the piece and added blue and green oil paints, black shavings of baked polymer clay, glitter, and mica flakes as the inclusions.

I thought that the VInatj Brass would be a lovely color to pair with the finished piece, and when I rooted through my collection, the Fliligree Clover Petal was the largest piece of brass that I had--that made it the right piece, right?

I had a couple of challenges. The first was figuring out how to put a hook on the filigree when I wanted to turn my filigree so that the points were in an X orientation rather than a + orientation. I finally took a piece of brass wire and ran it through the filigree.

Next I used my concave round nose pliers to create a circle on both ends of the wire. There may be a better way, but this one worked for me. 

This is what it looked like after I put a jump ring through both loops and closed the jump ring.

The next part took the longest--molding the brass piece around the ice resin cabochon. I used needle nosed pliers and a small hammer and just kept bending and hammering until I was able to get the brass where I wanted it.  I could have wrapped it so that all four corners showed evenly, but I decided that I liked it better when the center of the filigree was in the center of the cabochon.

It still needed something. . . Finally I found an iridescent Swarovski crystal in my jewelry odds and ends stash--perfect!  Thanks for stopping by the Classroom blog today.

Glitter + Halloween = Loads of Fun

Time passes SO quickly! It was July when I had the pleasure of a "playdate" with Heather and Lisa. Heather loves Halloween and so we pulled out the Halloween punches I had and Lis shared the Burnished Velvet technique with her. As Lis demonstrated I was the fetcher and clean-up gal because I knew where to find everything and then could put it away again :-D BUT I had an idea I just had to try so my clean-up role was quickly dismissed as I created the glittered piece below - LOL!

To learn more about Burnished Velvet you can read the following posts:

• Puttin' on the Ritz - Creating Glittered Designer Paper
• Puttin' on the Ritz - Creating Glitter Borders
• Puttin' on the Ritz - Glitter Ritz that is! Going Transparent
• Tape and Glitter, Glitter and Tape! by Lisa Strahl

Begin by adhereing Be Creative tape to the Blackbird paper and then cut out the oval using a Nestability. I have found that sometimes (depending on the weight of my designer paper) I have had to run my sandwich through my machine two times before it cuts all the way through the tape and the paper. It works best if I place my die so that it cuts through the tape layer first, with the designer paper on the bottom.

Remove the  tape backing and position your decorative images punched from the tape backing (remember to position it with the words facing up for best results) I have alphabetically listed the order in which I placed my elements down on my sticky tape in hopes of assisting you with the layering.

• a - haunted house
• b - flying witch
• c - circle

TIP: If you want an image to be used as a whole place it on your sticky surface first - that way it will be the last item to be removed and glittered.

I have then numerically listed the order in which I lifted my elements and applied the glitter.

1. warm highlights
2. apricot
3. java bean

TIP: Remember to thoroughly burnish each color of glitter in place before applying the next color to avoid mixing the colors. This is especially important when working from light to dark as I did in this case. If it is not thoroughly burnished some of the dark colors may migrate into the lighter colors. This can be an added effect in some cases, so think about the final look you are trying to create before making your burnishing decision.

Glitter and Halloween... they go together like bread and butter! SO pull out your punches and see what Spooky creation you can create :-D

paper: Memory Box 6x6 Blackbird and Licorice Cardstock

accessories: Martha Stewart Flying Witch and Haunted House, Circle Punch, Oval Nestability, Be Creative Tape 4 1/2" or sheets and 1/4", Glitter Ritz - Warm Highlights, Apricot, Black