the CLASSroom

Grand Stag and Pine by Kittie Caracciolo

Good Wednesday morning and welcome to the CLASSroom.  I love the Memory Box Grand Stag Oval Frame and Pine Branch Oval Frame.  Using the two frame dies together creates a wonderful dimensional scene.  We most often think of using deer for masculine projects but I adore how soft and elegant the scene is with the all white images against the soft pink background. 

Start by cutting the two frames and cutting the  5.50” x 4.25”card base using white cardstock.

Use the negative of one of the frames to draw an oval on the pink cardstock to be used on to the back of the scene.  Cut about an 1/8” outside the line to make the oval large enough to be attached to the back of the framed scene. 

Apply glitter glue to the evergreen branches on both frames but being careful not to get the glue on the outer framed edge.

Use your finger (my tool of choice) to carefully spread the glue on the branches.  Hint:  Keep lots of baby wipes close by. 

Apply the Rock Candy glitter to the branches and allow to dry.

Punch out several evergreen sprigs using the Martha Stewart Branch Punch, apply glue and dip them in the glitter and set aside to dry.

Apply 1/4” double stick tape to the back of the base frame. 

Attach the pink background piece to the frame and then apply adhesive and attach to the white card base.

Apply small pieces of mounting tape to the back of the frame and deer. Cutting across the width of the tape creates the perfect size to fit along the rounded edges of the frame.

Remove the back off the mounting tape, line the frame up and attach to the base frame.

Tuck the evergreen sprigs around the legs of the deer and attach to the base with glossy accents.

Cut a couple sets of stars from the Impression Obsession Obsession Sun and Moon set, apply the glitter glue and dip in the glitter. Attach to the sky area of the scene with glossy accents.

My camera just didn’t want to let me capture the Bazzill Pale Rose cardstock. No matter how hard I tried in my editing the color in most shots appear darker pink than it actually is. 

I recently made this same basic layout using an Icy Mint background.  I couldn’t resist showing both cards. And I think this would be a gorgeous holiday card done with a bright red background but I really love the soft pale colors the best.

I hope you have been inspired to create an all white image scene with your die cuts. Images don’t always have to be colored to be beautiful.

Memory Box Dies, Grand Stag Oval Frame

Memory Box Dies, Pine Branch Oval Frame

Impression Obsession Dies, Sun & Moon

Martha Stewart Craft Punch, Branch

Bazzill Card Shoppe Cardstock, Pale Rose, 25 pk

Bazzill Card Shoppe Cardstock, Pale Rose, 10 pk

Neenah Cardstock, Neenah Heavyweight, Classic Crest Solar White 110 lb, 25 pk

Ranger Distress Glitter, Clear Rock Candy

Creative Expressions Cosmic Shimmer Flake & Glitter Glue, 30ml

Elizabeth Craft Designs Susan's Garden Tool Kit

Be Creative Tape, 5mm (1/4")

Be Creative Tape, 3mm (1/8")

Scotch Double-Sided Foam Mounting Tape

ATG Kit, Advanced Tape Glider

Teflon Bone Folder

Tonic Maxi 12 Inch Guillotine Paper Trimmer

Sizzix Big Shot Express

Sizzix Precision Base Plate for Thinlits Dies

Ranger Non-Stick Craft Sheet

EK Tools, Precision 5 Inch Scissors with Sheath

Ranger Accents, Mini Glossy Accents

Ranger Accents, Glossy Accents

Tim Holtz Tonic Non-Stick Micro Serrated Scissors

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2015 Mini Folder Album by Julia Stainton

 Happy New Year! I'm excited about all 2015 has to bring. How about you? I decided I'd kick off the new year with a sweet vintage style creation that has me anticipating all the wonderful things 2015 will bring so that I can fill it up.

Today I'm sharing my 2015 mini album that's created from mini manila file folders. I plan to fill it with notes, quotes and photos. Mini albums are so fun to create! I love anything mini sized and because I have the mini ready for my experiences, I have no excuses not to add to it over the course of the year.

These little manila folders measure 3" x 3.75" in size. I've used 6 of them to create my mini album. There's 12 per package so why not create two at once and give one away as a gift?!

I've used the Tim Holtz Binder Punch to punch my file folders. It's a great little punch and the folders fit into it perfectly and are very easy to line up. You can also use a Crop-a-dile or other hole punch to create your mini album.

Once my folders were punched, I stamped them all with beautiful vintage stamps by Impression Obsession and Hero Arts. You'll find the links below. Invariably, I always miss one link and today is no exception. The text background is stamped with the Hero Arts Newspaper Background.

Each folder is stamped on the front, back and inside with random images and then the edges are sponged with Distress Ink.

Next I've added in some random accents of color by misting areas of the folders with Mr. Huey's Mist. Ledger transparencies are also punched and added into the mini album for a little extra interest and more places to add photos. The mini album is held together with circle clips that I picked up at the office supply store.

After putting the album together, my favorite part of any project is embellishing the cover. The Maya Road chipboard is the main element that ties it all together. I've colored in the chipboard with the Celadon Copic Marker. You can choose any color you wish. Aqua and green just happen to be one of my very favorite color combos I turn to over and over as I love them so much.

2015 is created with some gold glitter letters. To add some more bling, a stunning Maya Road button accents the design along with vintage roses and vintage buttons.

I also can't get enough of the Cosmo Cricket wood accents and for this design they add in some journaling sentiments as part of the mini album cover and the tabs on the side. On the top ring I've added on one of the cutest camera charms I've ever seen by Maya Road.

And here's my mini album open and just waiting to be filled with memories this year.

 Thanks so much for stopping by the CLASSroom today! I hope I've inspired you to create a little mini album but even more so, some wonderful memories this new year of 2015.

Happy New Year and happy creating!

 

Supplies:

 

American Crafts Shimelle, Glitter Thickers, Fitzgerald

Distress Ink Pad, Brushed Corduroy

Maya Road Chipboard Set, Ornate Tags

Maya Road Trinket Pins, Vintage Button

Maya Road Vintage Trinkets, Lustrous Button Jewels

COPIC Sketch Marker YG25, Celadon Green

7 Gypsies Naked Mini Manila Folder

Tim Holtz, Binder Punch

Cosmo Cricket Wood Charms, Tiny Text

Impression Obsession Cling Stamps, Vintage Rose Spray

Impression Obsession Cling Stamps, Three Blooming Roses

Impression Obsession Cling Stamps, Rose Typographie

Hero Arts Little Clothespins

Studio Calico Mister Huey's Color Mist, Sky, That-a-Way

Impression Obsession Cling Stamps, French Ledger

Maya Road Transparencies, Ledger, Black

Accents, Glossy

Maya Road Vintage Captured Moment Camera

Copic Stencil Background by Julia Stainton

With the popularity of stencils these days, it's always great to have many different ways to use them. While I love misting stencils and using them to mask ink and paint, I really wanted to try using them with Copic Markers for a unique look.

 

By using the Copic Mulitliner together with the Sketch Markers and a stencil, you can get a fun, hand-drawn effect that is full of color.

I love the new Memory Box stencils for their great detail and originality.For this project I've used the Rhapsody Stencil. It's simply stunning!

This stencil technique is really simple...all you need is patience and a few supplies you probably already have on hand.

The first step is to tape down your paper and stencil so they don't shift while you are working. I love Tissue Tape for this. It's great to have on hand as an embellishment and it also holds stencils and dies in place temporarily without damaging the paper.

Use a Copic Multiliner pen to trace around every part of the stencil. These pens are permanent in conjunction with the Copic Sketch Markers which can cause other inks to run and bleed.

Complete the entire stencil image.

Remove the stencil and you have a great black and white sketch background. It's actually pretty enough to leave as is, but I am so very ready for spring and needed a pop of color.

Begin adding in your color. I like to work with three colors and add them in bit by bit for a balanced look. The colors shown are YR04 Chrome Orange, R37 Carmine and RV55 Hollyhock.

Quick Tip: Use a light hand when adding in color. If you hold down the nib for too long the ink may bleed outside the lines.

Continue coloring until finished. It does take some time but if you enjoy coloring, it's a very relaxing process.

After putting so much work into the background, I decided to keep the rest of the card simple. The background layer is adhered with foam adhesive to pop it up. I've also punched a little partial circle out of the top right of the design to add in a sweet little chalkboard badge. A little banner is created by stamping a piece of cardstock, notching it's ends and folding it on the angle.

Thanks for joining me today in the CLASSroom! Have a creative weekend!

 

Supplies:

 

Memory Box Stencils, Rhapsody	COPIC Multiliner SP - 0.3, Black	Archival Ink Pad, Jet Black	Red Hots Bazzil Cardstock
A Cardstock, Neenah Classic Crest Solar White, Ream	Nesting Paper Punch, Circle 1 1/2" (Retiring)	Chalkboard Badges	Tonic Paper Trimmer Guillotine, 8.5"
EK Tools, Precision 5 Inch Scissors with Sheath	Thanks a Bunch Clear Stamp Set	YR04 Chrome Yellow copic Marker	R37 Carmine Copic Marker
RV55 Hollyhock Copic Marker	Tim Holtz, Tissue Tape, Symphony

InLinkz.com

Easter Bunny Egg Hunt by Kittie Caracciolo

Creating die cut scenes is so much fun and one of my favorite kinds of cards to make.  I wanted to share a whimsical Easter scene with you today made with several Impression Obsession dies and the beautifully colored Bazzill cardstock.

For this scene I used the newly released Rabbit set, Tiny Flowers, Leaves and Stems, Small Bird Set paired with the  Swirl Tree, Grass Border, Small Grass Border and 1/2” Circle Punch.

I started by cutting out all of the different pieces for my scene.  Do you cut everything before you start your project or do you just cut out as you go?  I never cut out when I start except when I need to take step by step pictures for a tutorial.  Most times I don’t know when I start what I want to do and just cut things and design by the seat of pants until I come up with my finished project.

I formed all my tiny flowers and stems with my stylus and molding pad.

Forming the little stems adds a natural shape and takes away the stick straight appearance.

I attached the tiny flowers to the stems with glossy accents. I always use my paper piercer or leaf tool to secure the flower in place on the stem.

I attached thin strips of mounting tape to the back of the tree and applied ATG adhesive to the bottom of the trunk and attached it to the card base.  The trunk of the tree needed to be flat to sit behind the grass. 

I didn’t want the scene to go all the way across the card base so I cut a portion of the grass borders off.

I attached two layers of grass together and then attached them to the card base with glossy accents.

I attached pieces of mounting tape to the small grass border and attached it over the taller grass.

I tucked several flowers into the grass and attached with glossy accents.  The point of the leaf tool helps push the stem down and secure it behind the grass.

I applied mounting tape to the back of the bunnies and tucked them into the grass.

I used my tweezers and glossy accents to place the circles …oops I mean eggs in the grass around the bunnies.  Who would know they aren’t egg shaped?

I finished by placing a few birds in the scene attaching with glossy accents and holding them in place for a second with the end of my stylus.

Here’s what I had left to use for another project.  I keep a small glass tray on my desk to put all my leftover bits and pieces.  You never know when you’re going to need them. :)

I think these bunnies are so sweet and I love the pops of color against the all white background.

 

Do you have some bunny dies?  Get them out and try your hand at making a colorful Easter scene. Thanks for stopping by the CLASSroom today.

Impression Obsession Dies, Rabbit Set	Impression Obsession Dies, Swirl Tree	Impression Obsession Dies, Tiny Flowers	Impression Obsession Dies, Leaves & Stems
Impression Obsession Dies, Sm Grass Border	Impression Obsession Dies, Grass Border	Nesting Paper Punch, Circle 1/2"	Impression Obsession Dies, Sm. Bird Set
Sizzix Accessory, Tool Kit inspired by Susan Tierney-Cockburn	A Cardstock, Neenah Classic Crest Solar White, 25 pack	Bazzill Card Shoppe Cardstock, Robin's Egg, 10 pk	Bazzill Card Shoppe Cardstock, Sour Lemon, 10 pk
Bazzill Card Shoppe Cardstock, Sour Grape, 10 pk	Bazzill Card Shoppe Cardstock, Easter Grass, 10 pk	Bazzill Card Shoppe Cardstock, Cotton Candy, 10 pk	Sizzix Accessory, Magnetic Platform for Wafer-Thin Dies
Sizzix Big Shot Machine, Powder Blue & Teal	Teflon Bone Folder	Accents, Glossy	Copic High Tack Double-Sided Foam Mounting Tape, 1/2"

InLinkz.com

Hello, Monday 11.25.2013

(click on the pics to enbiggan)

Christmas will be upon us before you know it, and if you haven't started your holiday cards yet, fear not! *cheeky grin* I'm sharing 3 easy ideas that feature one super fun stamp set called Naughty or Nice by Hero Arts--totally love the greetings! This is one versatile set that will enable you to pair lots of other holiday themed items with ease!

See what I mean?

I used a favorite set of number stamps, but you could certainly adapt stickers or dies to pull off the same idea...

I love that the Scattered Dots background stamp and Soft Granite ink add texture, but don't overwhelmin the focal imagery on this one!

A little bit o' bling can go a long way...this card may be sweetly simple, but it still sparkles and shines!

Enjoy the video here or hop on over HERE to watch it on our YouTube Channel! Hit the play button then click on the gear to switch to 720p for best video quality and thank you, as always, for watching and subscribing!

Happy Mundane (to the 3rd...)! *wink*

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SUPPLIES:

Hero Arts ClearDesign: Naughty or Nice	Avery Elle Clear Stamps, Count on It	Impression Obsession Cover-a-Card Cling Stamp Set: Scattered Dots	Savvy Stamps Dies, Sled
Memory Box Dies, Holiday Hats	Memento Luxe Ink Pad, White	Hero Arts Pigment Ink Pad, Unicorn	Hero Arts Embossing Powder, White
Inkadinkado Embossing Magic Bag	Powder Tool Adhesive Deactivator	Hero Arts Embossing Gun	Shadow Ink: Mid-Tone, Pale Tomato
Shadow Ink, Soft Granite	Shadow Ink, Soft Pool	VersaMark Inkpad	COPIC Sketch Marker R27, Cadmium Red
A5 Cardstock, Black, 10 pack	A Cardstock, Neenah Classic Crest Solar White, Ream	A Cardstock, Neenah Classic Crest Solar White, 25 pack	American Crafts, Pow! Glitter Paper, 12x12 Silver Solid, 2 pk
Cosmo Cricket Wood Charms, Stars	My Mind's Eye Enamel Dots, Mistletoe Magic	Hero Arts Gemstones, Assorted Clear Crystals	Lawn Fawn Hemp Cord, Single Spool Peppermint
Tweezer Bee	Tweezers, Stainless	Glue Glider Pro	2 Way Glue, Chisel Tip
Tombow Mono Multi Liquid Glue, .88 oz	Accents, Mini Glossy	Accents, Glossy	Kool Tak White Foam Adhesive, 1/4 Squares (1/16 Thick)
Glue Glider Pro Plus Refill, High Tac 58'	Sizzix Big Shot Machine, Powder Blue & Teal	1.5" circle punch

InLinkz.com

Hello, Monday 07.29.2013

(click on the pics to enbiggan)

I typically have a hard time with pastel color combos so I usually avoid them. Then, I spied them being used with black as an accent--rich, bold black! Whoah! Made me sit up. Made me take notice.  Made me decide to try it...

It's so... sophisticated! WOW!!! I wasn't expecting it--nor was I expecting to like it!

 

This design also features the Adirondack and the Kraft Core paper collections by Coredinations--I hadn't used them in a while and had forgotten how much I love the canvas texture!

This li'l birdie is so stinkin' cute, I can't take it! Love to pop the wing up!

I share a neat tip in the video for using the Soft Grip Embossing Stylus set--there are 3 tools in the set, for a total of 6 ball tips and the "smallest" ball tip has become m' new best friend! *grin* And I also show how to make a dimensional banner--super easy and best of all, it's "adjustable"--you can adapt it to any size greeting!

Enjoy the video here or on YouTube!  Thanks a bunch for watching and for subscribing to our channel! Be sure to switch to 720p for the best viewing quality (click that little "gear" icon on the lower right of the video player screen)

Yip yay, happy Mundane! ;)

 

Note: I used a 1 3/4" circle punch to make my window, but you could also use a  circle die or circle cutter in lieu of a punch. I believe the Memory Box branch die I used is now discontinued, but I have listed a good substitute, by Savvy Stamps, down below in the supplies.

SUPPLIES:

Lawn Fawn Clear Stamps, Sophie's Sentiments	VersaMark Inkpad	Savvy Stamps Dies, Winged Bird	Savvy Stamps Dies, Branch
Soft Grip Embossing and Stylus	Core'dinations Cardstock, Adirondack Collection	Core'dinations Cardstock, Distress Collection by Tim Holtz, 4x6 Assorted 72 pk	A5 Cardstock, Black, 10 pack
White Embossing Powder	A1 Cardstock, Neenah Classic Crest Natural White, 25 pack	A1 Cardstock, Neenah Classic Crest Natural White, Ream	Martha Stewart Scoring Board, Mini
Sizzix Big Shot Machine, Powder Blue & Teal	Shape 'N Tape, Black	Hero Arts Embossing Gun	Tweezers, Stainless
Punch, 1"" Square	Glue Glider Pro Tool with Pro Plus PermaTac Cartridge	Kool Tak White Foam Adhesive, 1/4 Squares (1/8 Thick)

InLinkz.com

Hello, Monday 04.01.2013

(click on the pic to enbiggan)

Some simple but beautiful tags on Pinterest caught my eye and I wanted to recreate the look... When we think of shipping tags, we tend to think of them in white, or cream and sometimes kraft... But the tags I had seen were in bold bright colors, and had boldly colored imagery on them. So striking!

I wanted to re-create that look to make some tags I could use to dress up ordinary white cards. As I mention in the video, ink can take on a whole different look when stamped onto COLORED papers--what you see on white or cream may end up very different! So, pull out your scraps and experiment before you begin on your project, just to be sure you like the results you're getting.

ETA: Not quite sure whether or not Neon is for you? Hero Arts' new cubes are a great way to dabble before taking the plunge with full-size pads! The cubes also come in other assortments of pretty color palettes!

The layouts I did were very spontaneous (!)--I just cut and layered snippets of pretty patterns from a variety of paper pads (6x6, 8x8) in combinations that seemed to compliment the stamped tags nicely... A little bit of twine, a little bit of bling and before I knew it, I had an assortment of cards that, hopefully, would brighten anyone's day!

You can enjoy the video here, or in HD over on YouTube--thanks for subscribing to our channel and I sure hope the ideas inspire!

Thanks for joining me this Mundane! ;) 

 

 SUPPLIES & MATERIALS:

Wise Bird	Claudine Hellmuth Clear Stamps, Spring Garden	Savvy Stamps, Puddles	Three Artistic Butterflies
Savvy Stamps, Blossom Flower, Lg	Savvy Stamps, Thank You	Savvy Stamps, Outline Tile Pattern	Savvy Stamps, Thank You Flag
Huckleberry Branch	Hero Arts Neon Ink Pad, Neon Pink	Hero Arts Neon Ink Pad, Neon Orange	Chalk Ink, Cerulean
Shadow Ink: Mid-Tone, Pale Tomato	Chalk Ink, Grass	Glue Glider Pro	B2 Cardstock, Bubblegum
EEE3 Cardstock, Pool	EE4 Cardstock, Meadow	D5 Cardstock, Sunflower	Hero Arts, Layering Paper, Mandarin
A Cardstock, Neenah Classic Crest Solar White, 25 pack	A Cardstock, Neenah Classic Crest Solar White, Ream	Crate Paper Maggie Holmes Signature 6x6 Paper Pad	Studio Calico Sundrifter 6x6 Paper Pad
Dear Lizzy Lucky Charm 6x6 Paper Pad	Crop-a-Dile Corner Chomper Tool, Angle & Photo Corner	Crop-A-Dile Eyelet & Snap Punch	EK Paper Shapers Punch, 1/2 Circle
Gemstones, Black Crystals	Essentials by Ellen: Sequins, Glossy Black	My Mind's Eye Enamel Dots, Boy Crazy	My Mind's Eye Enamel Dots, Cute from Collectable-Notable by Jen Allyson
Bamboo Cord Spool, Black	Lawn Fawn Clear Stamps, Lime Single Cord	Sew Easy Baker's Twine, Black	Tombow Mono Multi Liquid Glue, .88 oz
3D-Dots, 1/8" Thick	3D-Dots, 1/16" Thick	Paper Trimmer, Tonic Guillotine 8 1/2"	Tweezer Bee
Tweezers, Stainless	Honey Bee Non Stick Scissors

InLinkz.com

Hello, Monday 03.25.2013

Embossing sure is making a big come back lately, and I thought I'd have fun playing with some colored embossing powders by Ranger!  They look pretty spiffy on black card stock, don't you think?! I love the look! So bold and bright!

Had to add a little butterfly punched from vellum card stock--the card stock weight is perfect for propping the wings up for added dimension!

Enjoy the video here or on YouTube! You can also subscribe to our channel so you don't miss any of our webisodes! ;)

Thanks for joining me today!

SUPPLIES & MATERIALS:

 

Savvy Stamps, Poppy with Leaf (on side)	Savvy Stamps, Ornate Leaf	Savvy Stamps, Hello Tall	Memento Ink Pad, Tuxedo Black
VersaMark Inkpad	Bazzill 40lb. Vellum, 25pk	A Cardstock, Neenah Classic Crest Solar White, 25 pack	A Cardstock, Neenah Classic Crest Solar White, Ream
A5 Cardstock, Black, 10 pack	Adirondack Embossing Powder, Lettuce	Adirondack Embossing Powder, Red Pepper	White Embossing Powder
Inkadinkado Embossing Magic Bag	Embossing Gun	EKSuccess Adhesive Remover Tool	Uni-ball Impact Gel Pen, White
Tsukineko Brushstix 3pk, Chisel, Brush, Dome Tip #2	Accents, Glossy	3D-Dots, 1/16" Thick	Sew Easy Baker's Twine, Black
Gemstones, Black Crystals	Medium Punch, Butterfly	Martha Stewart Scoring Board, Mini	Teflon Bone Folder

InLinkz.com

Hello, Monday 03.11.2013

Do you love circles as much as I do? Like polka dots, they always make me so happy! And, they always look so mod, too! LOL!

I was playing with the Circle Punches Dies by Lifestyle Crafts--these dies are actually quite handy! You can punch out a whole bunch of same sized shapes all at one time just cranking them through your die cutting machine! They come in basic shapes, like the circles I used here, and they also come in some fun shapes, like bunnies & chicks, snowflakes, hearts, squares, etc.  Very cool!

My voice is back--YAY!!! So, you'll hear me yappin' away once again... :)

You'll hear (and watch!) me make a mistake on the first card and then I save it (*fist pump*) using the QuickStik--such a great gizmo!

Enjoy the video here or on YouTube and please subscribe to our channel so you don't miss any of our weekly webisodes! (I sooooo made that word up!)

Thanks for joining me and I hope you have a great Mundane! *snarf*

SUPPLIES & MATERIALS:

 

Studio Calico Cleardesign: Sundrifter Love This from Hero Arts Lawn Cuts Dies, Hearts Lifestyle Crafts Dies, Circle Punches Studio Calico Sundrifter 6x6 Paper Pad Studio Calico, Mister Huey's Color Mist, Inky Black Studio Calico Snippets 6x6 Paper Pad Bamboo Cord Spool, Black Amy Tangerine Ready Set Go Transparent Letter Stickers, Baxter 2 H4 Cardstock, Dove Gray A Cardstock, Neenah Classic Crest Solar White, 25 pack A Cardstock, Neenah Classic Crest Solar White, Ream Tim Holtz, Tiny Attacher Crop-a-Dile Corner Chomper Tool Tweezers, Stainless Elizabeth Craft Designs Tweezers Be Creative (Sookwang) Tape, 12mm (1/2") 3D-Dots, 1/16" Thick EKSuccess Adhesive Remover Tool Sizzix Big Shot Machine, Black & Pink Lifestyle Crafts Dies, Easter Punches Lifestyle Crafts Dies, Butterfly Punches Lifestyle Crafts Dies, Flower Punches Lifestyle Crafts Dies, Pennant Punche Lifestyle Crafts Dies, Arrow Punches Lifestyle Crafts Dies, Star Punches InLinkz.com

Hello, Monday 03.04.2013

I still have Easter on the brain, so you're getting another dose of Spring-time creations this week! The ideas just kept coming, so since I was on a roll... 

But, you'll have to pardon me... I have a terrible, TERRIBLE head/chest cold, and I completely lost my voice.  I mean, COMPLETELY. :(  I laid down a music track for today's video and hopefully I'll be flexin' the golden pipes once again by next week.

Meantime, I have some additional tips to share that you otherwise would have heard on the voice-over:

• A 1/4" hole punch can be used to take "bites" out of your die cut "chocolate" bunnies (the bunnies card, by the way, was a card I'd seen in a store and have been dying ever since to recreate cuz it's hilarious!)
• I always prefer to stamp my sentiments, but if I simply don't have what I need, I will use my computer or alpha stickers (depends on how elaborate/lengthy the greeting is)
• Shape N Tape or Washi Tape is a great way to add a little bit of pattern and can serve as a substitute for patterned paper in a pinch
• I use a craft knife blade to separate Shape N Tape from the liner; my fingers are too clunky and can't get between the layers
• Due to Shape N Tape's size, you can die cut fairly large shapes from the sheets, but you can also cut strips to size, apply them to card stock and then die cut for a multi-patterned/multi-colored effect
• When applying Stickles glitter glue to tiny areas, I try to apply a drop but use a pin to spread it out

Enjoy the video here or on YouTube and don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube Channel!

Thanks for joining me this Mundane!

SUPPLIES & MATERIALS:

 

Savvy Stamps, Hello Spring Memento Ink Pad, Pear Tart Memory Box Cardstock, Vanilla Bean Memory Box Cardstock, Squash EEE3 Cardstock, Pool B2 Cardstock, Bubblegum Memory Box Cardstock, Parsley A Cardstock, Neenah Classic Crest Solar White, Ream A Cardstock, Neenah Classic Crest Solar White, 25 pack Savvy Stamps Dies, Grass Impression Obsession Dies, Chocolate Bunny Memory Box Dies, Family Ties Impression Obsession Dies, Egg Set Shape 'N Tape, Yellow Shape 'N Tape, Teal Blue Shape 'N Tape, Orange My Mind's Eye Decorative Tape, Green & Navy Cosmo Cricket Tiny Type Stickers, Yellow Sizzix Big Shot Machine, Black & Pink Stickles, Orange Peel Stickles, Yellow Glaze Pen, Black, 2 pk Sakura Quickie Glue Pen Tombow Mono Multi Liquid Glue, .88 oz 3D-Dots, 1/16" Thick Glue Glider Pro Glue Glider Pro Plus Refill, High Tac 58' InLinkz.com

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!

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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 11.05.2012

(click on the pic to en-biggan)

I absolutely adore the Stepping Stone alphabet by Studio Calico/Hero Arts but until now, hadn't had much chance to play with it! I love that it has both a solid AND an outline set included that coordinate together!

It's easier than you might think to combine the two together to mass produce a whole stack of upbeat thank-you cards like this one above!

Enjoy the video here, or skip on over to YouTube to watch it in HD!

Thanks for watching, and don't forget to subscribe to the Ellen Hutson, LLC channel for a new video every week!

 

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SUPPLIES & MATERIALS:

 

Studio Calico ClearDesign, Stepping Stone Alpha from Hero Arts	Studio Calico ClearDesign, Oh Sna	Lawn Fawn Clear Stamps, Interlocking Backdrops	Memento Ink Pad, Gray Flannel
Adirondack Dye Ink Pad, Mountain Rose	Shadow Ink: Mid-Tone, Butter Bar	Shadow Ink, Soft Pool	Hero Arts Memories Pigment Ink Pad, Unicorn White
VersaMark Inkpad	A Cardstock, Essentials by Ellen: White Linen #100 Cardstock, 25 Pack	H33 Cardstock, Graphite	A Cardstock, Neenah Classic Crest Solar White, 25 pack
A Cardstock, Neenah Classic Crest Solar White, Ream	Clear Acrylic Block 3" x 4" Rectangular with Grid	Stampendous Embossing Powder, .92 oz Detail White	3D-Dots, 1/16" Thick
Glue Glider Pro	Glue Glider Pro Plus Refill, High Tac 58'	Tweezers, Stainless	Heat It Craft Tool
Martha Stewart Scoring Board, Mini	Soft Grip Embossing and Stylus Set	Nesting Punch, 3/4" Circle	Ornare Piercing Pad

InLinkz.com

Designing with Neon by Julie Ebersole

When I was a teenager back in the '80s, neon was hot! I must admit to being intimidated when the trend came back into vogue this year... But, then I took it as a challenge to stretch creatively! :)

Probably one of the easiest ways to interject these hot new colors into your projects is by playing with inks, like the new Hero Arts Neon Inks! It took some experimentation to find the right combinations that I was satisfied with, so don't worry if your initial attempts leave you feeling a bit unsure--I look at it as part of the process. :)

Even so, I do have some tips to share that will hopefully guide you on the quest to incorporate this fun trend into your paper crafting!

And, be sure to enbiggan the pics by clicking on them!

For me the biggest rule of thumb, when it comes to neon, is that less equals more; use it sparingly!

This design features two neon speech bubbles, flanked on the right by a more subdued, yet still bright "pool" color of blue.  It compliments the neon orange and pink quite nicely, without overwhelming or competing, as do the birds stamped simply in black ink.

Partner neon with a neutral hue, such as grey. In the above example, the soft grey (it's actually called "Cloudy Blue", but it stamps "grey") color used on the alpha letters acts as a counter-balance to the vivid neon orange and yellow scattered dots. A little bit of Crystal Stickles also reflects the color and enhances the overall effect in a very light and airy way!

Use neon colors with patterned border stamps (Chevron - My Happy by Hero Arts/Studio Calico, Polka Dots - Geo-Graphic by Paper Smooches, Zig Zag Stitching - Sew Artsy by Hero Arts)--it will give great "pop"! The white spacing gives some breathing room to the neon hues; a black base card and some black accents also help ground the design and keep it from being overly dominating. I think this makes a great teen card, or just even fun for a guy card!

Want a dramatic blended effect? Sponge neon hues onto white card stock, allowing them to overlap and mix, creating additional hues--this combo would make a fantastic sunset effect on a scenic design as well! The white popped up flowers (Sew Me Flowers - Hero Arts) offer a nice contrast to the neon backdrop.

Try stamping a neon hue with a large background stamp (Square Pattern Background, Clippings Collection by Basic Grey/Hero Arts) directly over the top of another color--this example above features neon pink atop a non-neon mandarin orange colored card stock.  Neon pink and green washi tapes (from my stash) accent the design, and the focal sentiment is stamped in full-on neon pink, and subtly edged with neon orange.

This simple design was inspired by a Letterpress card I had seen--the Citrus ink is not necessarily neon, but when paired with the Neon pink, the combo offers a refreshing jolt--I love that it makes me sit up and take notice! The "Thank You" banner by Savvy could also have been stamped with the Neon pink, and then the panel mounted to a neon pink base card if I'd had one on hand; I must admit to being particularly fond of green, however--green just seems to go so well with practically every other color on the planet. ;)

Thanks for joining me in the CLASSroom today and I hope today's post sparks some fun ideas for turnin' up the neon in your projects!

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SUPPLIES & MATERIALS

STAMPS: Telephone Lines by Impression Obsession; He Said/She Said, Geo-Graphic by Paper Smooches; My Happy by Studio Calico/Hero Arts; Sew Artsy, Many Birthday Wishes, This Is Big , Sew Me Flowers by Hero Arts; Square Pattern Background, Clippings Collection by Basic Grey/Hero Arts; Monogram Alphabet by My Favorite Things; "have a wonderful...[birthday]" and Scattered Dots by Savvy Stamps

INKS: Neon Pink, Orange, Yellow by Hero Arts; Adirondack Cloudy Blue, Pool, Citrus by Archival Black by Ranger; Mistery Huey's Mist in Inky Black; Copic Marker in YG23 New Leaf

PAPERS:  Neenah Solar White (25 sheet pack or ream); Key Lime by Memory Box; Pool and Sunshine Layering Papers by Hero Arts; Black Card Stock

EMBELLISHMENTS: Crystal and Lime Green Stickles; Washi Tapes (from my stash)

TOOLS: 1 3/4" Circle Punch

OTHER: 3D Dots; Round Sponges (quartered)

Nautical Party by Krystie Hersch

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

TOOLS:  Crop-A-Dile, 3/4 Square Punch

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

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

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

Simple Summer Stamping by Julia Stainton

 Those lazy days of summer are here and wow...it's hot outside. In weather like this I like to enjoy making the most of it. I'm a die-hard crafter no matter what time of the year so I'm still creating but find summer is a great time for making things clean and simple.

Here's the simple summer card I have to share with you today. When I first saw this stamp set I just knew I had to have it. The woodgrain, the circles, that darling little bird....lots of possibilities.

 

If you look at the set there is a wide variety of images. I love this as it really makes a stamp set versatile. But sometimes this can also leave you wondering how to tie it all together. I have a couple tips to share with you today.

First of all... LAYER your stamps. I don't mean lots of layers on the card as I've actually only used two here but layer your stamps by overlaying the images when you stamp them. If you look up to the original photograph, you can see that everything in my design touches.

Even the sentiment is anchored in by overlaying the ink over the chevron image. There's always exceptions. Many times the sentiment looks best on it's own but stamp with a definite plan in mind. By having design elements touch in a project, it ties it all together.

Secondly, REPETITION is another great element of design. By using a shape such as a circle repeatedly, it makes a more cohesive design. There are three circle elements in this design, the circular frame, the wood button and the circular woodgrain stamp. I've carried the repetition into using this woodgrain stamp in three different ways.

One of the ways I've used this woodgrain stamp is to stamp the kraft heart trinket pin. These pins by Maya Road are so stinkin' cute that I just want to use them on everything.

The kraft trinket pins come flat so that you can stamp or alter them as you wish before putting them together. I'm inked up my woodgrain stamp with Vermillion Archival Ink and stamped the little kraft heart as my first use of the stamp.

Archival Inks by Ranger are my absolute favorites for their range of use, depth of color and crisp impressions. One drawback they do have is that they can stain your stamps. This really does not bother me in the slightest. The results far outweight the staining but I thought I'd bring it to your attention just in case you are someone who gets a little anxious over things like that.

The above stamp has been well-cleaned but is still rather red. It will fade over time. The color won't transfer off...

...this stamped image in green was stamped with the above stained stamp. No color transfer at all.

So onto my second use of the woodgrain stamp...a circular border. I like to use an acrylic block with grid lines for all my stamping. By lining up the circular stamp directly on the center of the block, it makes it easy to stamp evenly along the edge of the card.

Using clear stamps along with the grid makes it so easy to get a perfect border. To vary the pattern on the woodgrain, I've turned the block 180° each time for a more interesting look.

The final place I've used the wood grain stamp is for the leaves. I've stamped the image on white cardstock this time with Pear Tart Ink. Making paper leaves is quick and easy with a circle punch. First punch out a circle and then place it back into the punch. Slide to you get the size of leaf you want and punch again.

You should be able to get two leaves from each circle you punch. For this project I've used a 1.5" circle punch but this works with any circle punch. The large the punch, the larger the leaves.

Here's a closeup of the focal point. It's punched out an adhered with dimensional foam adhesive.

Thanks for joining me today in the CLASSroom. Hope you've enjoyed these simple techniques. Stay cool and happy crafting!

 

Supplies:

STAMPS: Studio Calico My Happy Stamp Set from Hero Arts

INK: Jet Black Archival ink, Vermillion Archival Ink and Aquamarine Archival Ink by Ranger, Brushed Corduroy Distress Ink by Ranger, Pear Tart Memento Ink by Tsukineko

PAPER: Pool Cardstock, Solar White Cardstock by Neenah

TOOLS: 1.5" Circle Punch, 2.5" Circle Punch, Clear Acrylic Block with Guides

EMBELLISHMENTS: Vintage Kraft Heart and Butterfly Trinket Pins by Maya Road, Wood Alterable Buttons by Maya Road

ADHESIVES: Craft Glue Dots Sheets, Mixed 3D Foam Squares

OTHER: twine

 

Kraft Bag Advent Calendar by Julie Ebersole

*click on the pics to en-biggan*

My house isn't decorated for Christmas just yet, so you'll hafta pardon the wrinkly tablecloth back-drop. *wink*

Every year, I think I'm going to create an Advent Calendar and every year I don't. There are so many absolutely darling ideas out there, but usually, the ones I fall in love with would take more than I have time for as a busy, working mama. I need something I can do in about an hour or two max. If you're anything like me, then this is the advent project for you!

*see supplies & materials list below*

Before I get started, I would like to mention that I don't currently have any number stamps or stickers, BUT I just happened to have a numbers die that worked, so I used what I had.  But, it did take a bit of time to glue each of the numbers all down.  This project actually would have gone faster, if I'd had stamps or stickers. A set that would work well for this project is the Hero Arts Garamond Numbers.

The first thing you want to do is stamp your little ATC Kraft bags--they are so stinkin' cute--one package will provide 25 bags, but you might as well pick up an extra package while you're at it, because after you're finished making the advent calendar, there are all kinds of other projects these babies are fun to use in. Trust me.

TIP: Whenever I'm stamping something like a bag that will have some uneven areas due to the bottom flap being folded up on the back side, I like to insert a piece of card stock into the bag to help create a nice flat surface under that front side. This helps me get the nicest, most even impressions.

When the bags are all stamped, just set them aside to dry while you work on the next part of the project.

Punch out 24 1-inch circles from some pretty patterned paper--I love this red ledger style patterned paper from the Wonder 6x6" Paper Pad by Authentique, and I was able to punch 24 circles from just one sheet.

Apply your numbers (or stamp them with black ink).

Now mount the number discs to the bags, atop the stamped snowflakes.  I wanted a little dimension, so I popped them up with foam mounting squares.

Figure out what you want to tuck inside--little trinkets are cute, and candies are fun, as well--just consider whether or not it will hang above a blazing fireplace because you wouldn't want any CHOCOLATES inside to melt.  Ask me how I know. 

String up your festive twine (twine ended up being 7' long, to leave enough length for tying, etc.) where desired, fold the tops of the bags down and clip them to the twine--I hung mine by the corners and let them overlap as you can see.

OK, seriously, aren't these teeny clothespins just the cutest things ever?! Eep! Um, yeah, I always get 2 packages because, just like the little bags, they are gobs of fun to use on other projects.  Just sayin' . . .

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Supplies & Materials:

Hero Arts Clear Design Snowflake Stamp Set
3D Foam Squares, Mixed
Adirondack Pigment Ink Pad, Snow Cap
Authentique 6x6 Paper Pad Wonder
ATC Mini Bags, Kraft 25 pk
Little Clothespins, 25 ct
Doodlebug Twine, Primary Assortment
EK Success 1" Circle Punch

Other:  Numbers die cut from black card stock

A Most Happy Haunted House with Susan Tierney Cockburn

It is such a pleasure to once again welcome Susan Tierney Cockburn here to the CLASSroom! You can find Susan creating some of THE most delicious baked goods on her blog My Mother's Apron Strings, so if you are tempted by wonderful desserts and loving stories you will most definitely want to visit her blog and leave her a comment on one of her delicious creations there! Susan's fine eye for detail ALWAYS amazes me - I hope you enjoy taking in this beautiful haunted house. Yes, I have to laugh when I say it, but it IS beautiful, while still being haunting. Thank you Susan for sharing this marvelous creation and story with us! -Ellen

This is the second house I have made using Eileen Hull's house by Sizzix and I find so much inspiration evoking in this case, a childhood memory, into a project I can share.

I was almost eleven and a dear friend had decided to have a Halloween party at her grandparent's old house before the family had it torn down. I helped with re-creating a haunted feeling --- adding spider webs, vats of gelatin, wooden coffins, etc. It was as authentic as anyone our ages could make. We had a great time when the rest of our classmates came for the party and I really hated to see the house get demolished a month later.

After that occasion, I saw haunted houses differently, knowing the family that had actually resided there. This replication I did for my Halloween table centerpiece reflects that feeling --- a little spooky, but also joyful. The urns, lining the path to the front door, with its "Welcome" sign, are full of brightly colored chrysanthemums. The smiling Jack O' Lantern on the fence looks mischievous!

Jack the crow on the branch of a "Tim Burton-like" tree acts as the watch dog to anyone approaching, the pumpkin patches surrounding the house waiting for pies to be baked, and the graves with the familiar "pushing daisies" symbol, marks past ancestors --- Emma Gonner and Heidi Osamigo.

Kale, maple leaves, sunflowers and all things beautiful we find in the fall surround the decrepid structure.

All the colorful fall beauty down to the tiniest of lady bugs on one leaf in memory of my daughter, Kelly. When I showed the house to my 3-year old grandson, he asked "Where's the Ghosts, Mimi?" I said, "Ari, this is a Happy Haunted House!" and left it at that. -Susan

Eileen Hull's Sizzix 3-D House Die Cut, Precut 3-D House

Dreamweaver Translucent Embossing Paste

Ranger - Distress Ink -- Black Soot, Pumice Stone, Bundled Sage

Punch Bunch Punches: Medium Begonia Petals (Kale), Mini Sunflower (Chrysanthemums and Daisies), Mini Maple Leaf (pumpkin vines), Mini Oak Leaf (fall leaves), Mini Ivy (ivy trailing up house), Small Sunflower (sunflowers by the fence), Small Tri-leaf (side bushes)

Martha Stewart Punches: Spider Web border (shutters), Mice border (mice running across back of the house)

Neenah Paper for Chrysanthemums, Sunflowers, Daisies

Double-sided Mulberry Paper for leaves

Copic Markers: Chrysanthemums - YR09, Y19, V15, RV17; Flowering Green Kale - BG93, YG63; Purple Kale - V15, BV08

Copper Foil - "silver side" used to create smoke stack

Viva Pearl Pen - Red berries and ladybug, Black for ladybug

Flower Soft - Christmas Green and Sage for the landscape; Koala Grey, Sand and Earth for the path to the door and grave sites

Styrofoam sheet to cut tombstones, then wrapped in mulberry paper and colored with Distress Ink

Fantasy Film - Dandelion for the window panes

Sakura Gelly Roll Metallic Pen - Gold to make Jack O'Lantern face

Faber Castell - XS Black pen to outline the face

Sculpey Clay - to create flower urns/gray and crow?black (baked as directed 275 degrees for 15 minutes, then brushed with Sculpy's Satin glaze to seal)

Witch hat is a gold charm covered with mulberry paper, then sponged with Bundled Sage Distress Ink and finally Metallic Rub-ons in Olive

Glue - The Ultimate

Spider webbing stretched finely to recreate webbing around parts of the house

Floral Supplies: Sycamore pods for the tree, moss in lichen for roof, honeysuckle vine twisted to construct the tree trunk and branches, as well as small wreath above the front door, flower pods that resemble pumpkins

WCMD 2011 - Color Swatch Challenge by Julie Ebersole (EHWCMD1)

Hiya!  I'm so excited to be presenting a Color Swatch Challenge in celebration of World Card Making Day!

These colors are very contemporary, but lend themselves well to a wide range of possibilities, no matter what your personal art style may be!  I have an example to share that I hope will inspire you in new ways!

The large floral image in the Lauderdale stamp set was clear embossed, and then Adirondack Dye Inks (see supply list for specific colors) were sponged over the top to color them in quickly.

To provide a little more contrast and a hint of pattern, the Friend Definition was stamped with Snow Cap pigment over black card stock and used to accent the focal panel.

Did you know the Donut Edger Punch makes a great "scallop" edge if you tuck it just a wee bit further under the top layer of paper?  Cool, eh?!

Stamping the sentiment onto the distressed red toned card stock (Indie Bloom 6x6) and then framing it with white gel pen gives it some visual weight and helps tie the design altogether.

Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to design a project incorporating the color combination featured at the top of this post!  (insert Mission Impossible theme music here)

Snap a picture of it, and follow the directions below --- hook us up with a link so we can ogle and drool over it!  And, to submit your entry for the candy, of course.

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Supplies & Materials: 

Basic Grey/Hero Arts, Lauderdale Clear Design 
Clear Design: Sending Smiles 
Cling Friend Definition 
Adirondack Dye Ink Pad, Lemonade 
Adirondack Dye Ink Pad, Red Pepper 
Adirondack Dye Ink Pad, Aqua 
Archival Ink Pad in Jet Black 
Adirondack Pigment Ink Pad, Snow Cap 
Versamark Ink Pad 
Clear Embossing Powder 
A5 Cardstock, Black 
F4 Cardstock, Water 
Basic Grey Indie Bloom 6x6 Patterned Paper Pad 
Edger Punch, Donut Chain 
Uni-ball Impact White Gel Pen

---

COLOR CHALLENGE

Use the color inspiration above to create your card or project!

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

BLOG CANDY

What is your current favorite color combination? Be certain to leave your answer and some love for Julie in the comments section of this post to be entered in a random drawing for the fun goodies shown below.

 

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

Using Circle Punches to Make a Banner By Becky Olsen

Circle punches are one of the staples that I just can't live without in my crafting supplies. A few different sizes were one of my very first investments in this fun hobby years ago, and still to this day whenever I see a size I don't have I will buy it. They are so versatile and being able to quickly punch out multiples is very handy.

With the popularity of banners still in full sway, I thought it would be fun to use a circle punch to create a celebratory banner for one of the many events that I will be needing a congrats card in the next few weeks for. By using scraps from some of my favorite papers I feel like I am maximizing my paper purchases as well, that makes me smile, I never want to waste an inch of any of those gorgeous papers.

For this card I used October Afternoon Five and Dime papers and Five and Dime chipboard and scraps from the October Afternoon Seaside collection. A 1 1/4" circle punch, Jillibean Soup Beanstalks Twine in brown and Cosmo Cricket Tiny Type letter stickers in blue.

I began by punching circles from some of my delicious scraps, and cut a workable length of the Jillibean twine. I also laid out the card design and machine stitched it together.

I then folded the circles in half, making sure that the edges matched up.

Apply adhesive and overlap over the twine, then repeat for the size of the card. If I were doing a larger project I would just cut the twine longer and add more pieces.

Of course you could make your banner different sizes by just changing the size of the circle punch that you use.

I hope that this fun banner inspires you to get out one of your most basic supplies and have a little fun with it, after all it is the celebrating time of year!

Happy Punching!

B-

Creating a Strawberry Blossom and Gift Packaging

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

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

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

 

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

 

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

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

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

Mother's Day Paper Shoe

Today I am super excited to share a new version of my Wicked Shoe with you! Now for the part that is unbelievably exciting... I didn't hand cut this version!!! Yes, you heard me right --- this beauty was cut with the Silhouette. Julia is making a tremendous difference here at work with her abilities to figure out computer related "things." THANK YOU Julia for making my project today SO MUCH EASIER!  Watch for electronic files to debut in our Digital Downloads category soon!

 

I also wanted to take this opportunity to invite you to shop with us during our Mother's Day Sale. Simply use promo code 'momsday' upon checkout to save 15% off your entire order Friday 5/6 - Sunday 5/8. Remember that we are on Pacific Coast time and the sale runs from midnight to midnight. 

 

I am a hopeless romantic - I absolutely adored the oh so elegant dress that Princess Kate wore last week. It was the perfect "royal attire." You know me - I had to see the shoes too. LOL! Her shoes had the most beautiful soft texture with a lace overlay.

 

Simply stunning! I thought about creating another pump with a rounded toe, but had limited time, so decided to modify my previous Wicked shoe pattern. Using the texture on Kate's shoe as inspiration and a color that most Mom's will love after this LONG winter - sunshiny yellow, I went to work! What better way to brighten it up even further, than with a single beautiful paper blossom!

 

This time I wanted to create a Begonia. Using the directions in Susan Tierney Cockburn's Paper Bouquet book I went to work. This book truly is a treasure trove of fabulous flower designs and instruction!

Just as when we created the Lily, I began with Solar White Neenah cardstock. This allows me to color my petals and leaves to replicate the actual flower with incredible accuracy. I always print off a picture of the actual flower to utilize as a guide. You can see a progression of the color in the photo above.

I work quickly on each individual petal to get the beautifully blended colors. Begin by coloring both the front and back entirely with YR30. Then add the Y21, stroking upwards from the base of the petal. Once again I add this color to both sides of the petal. Next randomly stroke RV32 along the very top edge of the petal. Now go back over this color and work your way back into the Y21 with the lightest color, YR30. This helps to blend the colors together beautifully.

 

The leaves were created from white Neenah cardstock as well. When I looked at the photo of the Begonia leaf it appeared that the leaf was darker on the top side and a little more yellow/green on the underside. Begin by coloring the leaves on one side only with YG63 and YG95. (In writing this post I realized that I forgot to add YG95 to the photo above.) Then flip the leaf over and colored the opposite side with YG63, G85 and a few strokes of YG96 and G29. By working quickly with the different colors they blend beautifully. They do seep to the opposite side, but this only adds to the overall effect.

 

After adding the veining to my leaves I decided to add that little hint of burgundy to the foliage using Pitt Pastel Pencil #193. Smudge the pastel using the little white sponge. I also added a hint of the burgundy to my petals as well. The soft "smudging" of the pastel over the Copic marker base makes for amazingly transparent, dimensional color.

As you can see the colors were SO close to the image I found on-line. I love looking at the real flower as I create my paper blossom - it inspires me. I can only imagine if I had the actual flower sample in hand!

Using Susan's fabulous directions I then finished the construction of my paper Begonia. 

Double click on the photo above for an even closer look.

TIPS FOR CREATING THE SHOE

To create the beautiful lacey texture on the soft yellow shoe is so very easy. Working on light colors can be tricky, but if you keep your Snow Cap dabber handy, all your problems will be solved. "Ink" your image using the dabber - it will appear as above.

 

As you can see the white is quite lovely against the soft Daffodil cardstock. To create a more shabby appearance used an ink blending tool in a circular motion, inking the entire surface with Scattered Straw distress ink.

 
The Snow Cap paint will resist the ink and yet at the same time "grab" it creating a soft suede-like look.

I also stamped the white interior of the shoe with the fabulous Hero Arts Envelope Background stamp using Spun Sugar Distress Ink, adding just a hint of Scattered Straw with an Ink Blending Tool.

 

To add texture and character crepe ruffles were added to the toe and heel area. Cut two pieces from the crepe sheets - 5 1/4" x 1 1/2" (heel area trim) and 3 1/4" x 1 1/4" (toe area trim).

To create balance the heel ruffle is edged with the same pink Copic color as used on the Begonia petals. The toe area was colored with YR30.

 

Thank goodness for my sewing background. Fit is essential when putting these pieces together. To simplify the process add a gathering stitch to the lower edge of the crepe paper and gather as shown above.

 

Position the center back and the front edges as shown above, holding them in place with glue dots. Make certain the glue dots are not on your thread lines. Gently pull the gathering thread until the crepe paper fits perfectly along the back of the shoe. Follow the instructions included in the download for adhering the shoe liner.

 
TIP: Hold your shoe sides gently in place and position the liner. Use tweezers to remove the red tape liner. This method allows you to have everything positioned correctly and helps you avoid getting the adhesive stuck in the wrong position. YEAH for the little tricks ;-D
 

Gather the toe ruffle as shown above. I used a large glue dot to affix this piece inside the toe.

 

Total sweetness! It only takes one little bloom to brighten someone's day - try your hand at creating these beautiful paper blossoms that are timeless!

Thank you for once again visiting the CLASSroom and wishing each of you a wonderful Mother's Day weekend ahead; one filled with sunshine and love!

 
shoe template: original Wicked Shoe Template which is cut by hand can be found here - Digital Download coming soon!

stamps: Hero Arts Envelope Pattern Background, Sweet Threads Thank You

ink: Distress Ink - Scattered Straw and Spun Sugar; Copic Markers - YR30, Y21, RV32, YG63, YG95, G85, G29

paper: Hero Arts Daffodil Layering Paper, Neenah Solar White Cardstock

accessories: Paper Bouquet, Punch Bunch Super Giant Begonia, Large Geranium Leaf, Alpine Flake Large and Paper Crafting Tools, 12" Strip Pink Pearls, Snow Cap Paint Dabber, Ink Blending Tool, Cream Crepe Paper, PITT Pastel Pencil #193, 1/8" Red Liner Wonder Tape

Easter Lily Cake Box YouTube Videos, with Susan Tierney Cockburn and Ellen Hutson

We thank you for your questions, patience and interest in the video we did for this month's newsletter. Many of you have tried to view the video, but due to computer, browser, and who knows what other issues you have had difficulty viewing the entire video. In an effort to make certain that we don't leave anyone out we are redoing the entire post here in the CLASSroom. We have now uploaded the video to YouTube in three segments due to the length, so please view each segment individually below. Thank you again for your willingness to learn with us and for your patience! So let's begin with "Take #2!"

We have also announced the winner of the Easter Lily Blog Candy here - congratulations go out to Shelley Smith. Please contact us at [email protected] with your snail mail address so that we can get your goodies right out to you.

How many of you are passionate about flowers and/or gardening? How many of you can no longer garden the way that you once did? It has been too many years now since I have been able to climb all over my hillside gardening. Before my hip injury I was passionate about my flowers and covered my hillside in beautiful perennials. Some still remain, but they are not in the same "shape" as they once were, so perhaps this is the reason paper flowers appeal to me so much. I can make these in my craft room without squatting AND at any time of the year :-D

One of my greatest blessings in life has been the friendship and bond I have had the good fortune of developing with Susan! It is such an honor to have her join me for today's lesson in paper flower making. Susan has pioneered the art of paper flower making for the past 15 years. Her work is such an inspiration and it is always so much fun to collaborate with her on projects!!!

 

This beautiful cake box is the project we worked on together for this month's newsletter. We hope that you enjoy the video we created to share with you today and that it empowers you to give flower making a try. In this video Susan will teach you how to create the beautiful lilies showcased above and below, sharing many wonderful tips throughout. Please grab your favorite drink and settle in for this 45 minute class with Susan as she shares many of the fabulous techniques she has innovated to bring this art form to us. 

 

 

  

Step-by-step written instructions for creating beautiful lilies are included in Susan's first book The Paper Garden. I cannot begin to tell you how helpful her books have been to me as I learn to create beautiful blooms! If you are a visual learner like me you will also find this book a wealth of information.

CREATING THE CAKE BOX

Now that you know how to make the flowers for this project I am going to share just a few basics regarding the construction of the cake box.

I prefer to attach my decorative paper to the Craft-a-Board before die cutting the pieces using the 3-D Cake Box Die. By affixing the paper to the Craft-a-Board with Be Creative (Sookwang) tape I am assured that I will have a perfectly covered project.

To create today's project I used Lilybee's 12x12 paper. For the scalloped top and base I applied decorative paper to both sides of the Craft-a-Board before die cutting. 

For the cake sides, decorative paper was applied to only one side of the Craft-a-Board. Being careful to position the paper so that the decorative side is cut all the way through, and the Craft-a-Board only scored, is important. To do this place the paper, decorative side to the die, and then send the die through your Vagabond or Big Shot using the crease pad. This will give pieces as shown above and below.

Carefully bend each piece along the score line before attaching them together to get a more uniform look.

 

You will also need to cut and score three pieces of cardstock to hold the cake pieces together. Using a strong adhesive affix the cardstock to the die cut pieces on the back or Craft-a-Board side as shown above.

 

Attach each piece one at a time.

 

When you have all three pieces attached, form the piece into a circle, affixing the last edge.

 

Next you will need to attach the base - the piece with the four tabs. I find it easiest to insert this piece from the top. Push it down through the center until it is firmly positioned in the bottom of the circular piece. Using a pair of needle nose tweezers insert a Glue Dot behind each of the flaps and affix these to the cake tube.

To adhere the scalloped top and base I prefer to use Ultimate Glue. The base is easy to affix due to the large surface you will be attaching it to. Apply Ultimate Glue to the base of the cake and position the scalloped piece holding it in place for a few seconds until you feel it is firmly in place. The cap or top is a little trickier. I run Ultimate Glue all the way around the top of the circular form and then position the scalloped top in place. The glue allows you to move it slightly until you have it in the desired position, then hold it for a few seconds until the glue grabs hold. Allow to dry for at least 30 minutes before continuing your work on the base.
 

To add interest to my cake base I attached a strip of white silk ribbon and then added pearls to either side of it. I also ran a strip of pearls around the top.

I wanted to include just a few close-up photos of the finished project so that you could better see the detail on these beautiful Easter blooms. 

The lily was one of Susan's first punch designs back in 2006. Sadly there are others who have taken Susan's work and called it their own, but the truth of the matter is that these designs, the techniques and wording, are copywritten by Susan --- I am so proud and honored to share her designs with you. With Easter right around the corner and spring knocking at our doors it has been a thrill to be able to share this beauty with all of you. Thank you so much for joining us! 

 
ink: Copic Markers -YG00, YG63, YG95, YR14, Y15, Y17

paper: Lilybee Designs 12x12 Picket Fence and Stationery Designer Paper, Craft-a-Board

accessories: Punch Bunch punches - Mega Lily, Large Alta Flake, Mega Big Sky Flake, Small Caladium Leaf, Small Birch Leaf; Punch Bunch Papercrafting Tools and Magnum Power Punch Aid; The Paper Garden, Sizzix 3-D Cake Box Die, Faber-Castell PITT Pastel Pencils - #104 and #170, Flower Soft - Earth, Toffee, Russet Red, Sunshine Yellow; 12" strip White Pearls, 1/4" White Silk Ribbon, Be Creative (Sookwang) 4 1/2" Tape or Sheets, The Ultimate Glue

Paper Lilies Dress Up Art Parts

I am hoping that you have had time to head over to Kim Kesti's blog and share some love with her - if not please do so, she is an absolutely remarkable woman! That sweet, sneaky girl changed up my desire to share our love with her in the "comment" section and turned it around where you have shared your words with us here at Ellen Hutson LLC. Your words of kindness about the amazing women who I have the privilege to work with here and in the CLASSroom, as well as your beautiful words about who I am as a person bring tears to my eyes. Yes, I am passionate about sharing creativity with others because I truly believe that creativity helped to save my sanity and I want to share that with others - so thank you from the bottom of my heart for your love, financial support (through your purchases) and kindness - it is appreciated more than you could ever know!

If you haven't had the opportunity to enjoy the incredible video Susan helped us make I would like to encourage you to visit this post over on In Touch (our newsletter archive blog) and leave some love for her there as well! Today I would like to share a much more "simple" project for those who may be creating paper flowers for the first time. Sometimes one very simple element can make a huge difference on a project and I think that the paper flowers do just that, so I hope that you enjoy this simple twist.

 

This project is created for yet another woman who has supported me over the past couple of years with her kindness. I felt that the words were so powerful and applied so strongly to the support she has shared with me. My desire is to share my appreciation with her through this project.

 

As Susan stated in her video I did challenge her to work with white paper only :-D. As someone who places a huge value on resources, my desire is to always try and share more ways for you to utilize the tools you may already have in your craft room and in this case I was thinking specifically about Neenah paper, the many Copic markers and now the new Faber-Castell products you have purchased from us. So hopefully here is yet one more way for you to use these awesome markers, pencils, pens, etc.

Before beginning a project in which I am trying to achieve natural coloration I google the flower I am trying to mimic. In this case I found this gorgeous lily picture.

 
I used the smallest petal on the Lily punch to create this little bloom. Begin with the lightest value marker and stroke up from the base of the petal to the tip. After adding the darkest value, color back over the entire petal with the lightest color to blend the colors. 

 

I have really been enjoying the Pastel Pencils to add additional veining and depth in my flower petals.

 

As shown in the video I used the sponge to mute the color somewhat. Isn't it amazing how well the colors work with the Cosmo Cricket papers!

 

Due to the small scale of the calyx on this bloom I simply cut the Alta Flake down in size before adhering the petals.

Just a quick shot of all the colors I used in creating this lily. 

 

As you can see I have added little flecks of color to the petals to mimic the real life lily. The ubber fine point on the Faber-Castell Artist pen is perfect for adding this element.

Susan also taught me an alternate way to make stamens for my lilies and I would like to share it with you. I simply colored a small rectangle of paper. Snipping it down and leaving it connected along the base.

I then used my quilling tool to roll it. I realized after the fact that I forgot to snap a second picture after changing my mind and creating a second stamen with the pistil's colored in E08 - oops.

For detailed directions on creating a lily I would like to encourage you to watch the video in this post  - Susan's work is simply magical.

 

For the remainder of the project I simply covered Art Parts and the Sewing Dress Craft-a-Board base with decorative paper, added my sentiment, a chipboard cameo (made using Maya Road pieces painted with Studio Paint) and some other simple, yet elegant embellishments and my piece was complete.

My desire is that one little bloom will show my appreciation. Thank you for once again visiting us here in the CLASSroom and don't forget to head over and leave some love for Kim Kesti and Susan Tierney Cockburn AND win a chance at some fun little goodies!

 
stamps: Tim Holtz Stuff to Say

ink: Jet Black Archival, Antique Linen Distress Stain, Antique Linen Distress Ink Pad, PITT Artist Pen - #133 and PITT Pastel Pencil - #193, Copic Markers - YR30, R81, R83, R85, YG00, YG63, YG67, YG95

paper: Cosmo Cricket Upcycle 6x6 Paper Pad, Craft-a-Board

accessories: Punch Bunch Mega Lily, Slotted Tool, Sample Pack Art Parts, Maya Road Cameo Mini Chipboard, Vintage Black Pearl Pin, Tim Holtz Mini Tassel and Ornate Book Plate, Hero Arts Foliage Dots, Everyday Ribbon, Studio Matte Multi Medium, Studio Painterly Pink Paint, Eco Green Crafts Clam Shell Paint, Ultimate Glue, Flower Soft - Earth

"Gotcha Day" Cake

There is no day more special in one's life than when a child is welcomed in to a family. The love that children provide and bring to our lives is magical. These little blessings come in so many ways! A wonderful ritual that family's who bring their special little people and babies in to their lives through adoption, is to celebrate that extraordinary arrival day. Filling that special family day with hugs, love and fun can be so wonderful.

I am so very honored and blessed to have a very dear friend who brings such joy and happiness to those she knows. Susan Tierney Cockburn  created this exceptional treasure for a special little girl who brings so much joy to her life, and I have had the honor of taking a picture of this treasure and sharing it with you.

 

I love absolutely EVERY detail of this beautiful, celebratory cake - the magic of the little girl and the frog sitting amongst the flowers atop this cake, the date, the springtime papers...

You can see the love that Susan shares as she creates these pieces and I want to assure you that you CAN create these beautiful flowers as well! The directions that Susan has shared in the books she has authored (Paper Garden and Paper Bouquet) are precise and easy to follow. We are currently working to put together a more informative website as we acquire the different punches and tools that Susan has been instrumental in designing for this craft.

Susan's Garden started many years ago in the dead of winter, I cannot tell you how much these beautiful blooms cheer me as the gray winter passes. Paper flowers were brought to life by one of the kindest and most honorable women I know. Keep checking back to our store as we continue to put together pictures and a plan that makes it easier for you to recreate these magical blooms and spread the magic Susan creates with others.

 
Paper: Graphic 45 Once Upon a Springtime

Accessories: Punch Bunch punches, Tim Holtz Upon A Time Die, Sizzix Scoreboards Cakebox Die or Essentials by Ellen: Precuts Cakebox

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

Bennie Bear Valentine Greetings

Copic and Imagination International have all sorts of wonderful new educational tools coming out this spring, as well as providing you with new learning opportunities with the Intermediate Level Certification program. One of the latest topics of learning has been the sharing of additional information regarding shadows. I am looking forward to getting the new book, written by Marianne Walker, in to our store (watch in the education section for new DVD's and books) and I will most definitely be studying it to learn more about how she approaches shadows. Before that happens though I thought I would throw my hat in the ring and share some basic information with you as to how I have tried to help the younger set learn more about shadows.

Before continuing I just have to share a little side-story that just brings a huge smile to my face. When Maddi, my daughter, was a baby and just learning to sit and play with the toys around her, we were playing in her room. The bright overhead light next to her closet was creating a shadow of her body on the floor. It was so well defined that you could see a complete outline of her body on the carpet. She reached over and tried to pick up her shadow by her ears. As she would lean over, it would move. It was absolutely fascinating and magical to watch her for the next few seconds as she discovered her shadow and how it moved and changed. Oh how I wished that I would have had a video camera running, but I was not about to leave that special moment and so it only replays in my mind and brings back such sweet memories.

 

For today's card I wanted to keep it sugary sweet and what could be sweeter than Karen's adorable Bennie Bear holding a box of truffles for his sweetheart?

You will find that some of my ways of teaching are so very basic. This is because I truly do enjoy working with kids and sharing basics. I hope that the information I share will be useful and not too "elementary." I don't know if I have ever mentioned that I once was a certified teacher. Graduating from college with a double degree I first followed my passion to educate by teaching third and fourth grade students.  After changing careers and utilizing the second degree by following my heart, I became a professional interior designer, but I did not lose that passion for educating children and so I have volunteered in my daughter's school as an art docent. So much of the way I teach has been geared towards children. I know that you are not children and so sometimes I worry that I'm being a little too basic, but I think it works for those who are visual learners.

 

Understanding shadows by using diagrams can be VERY helpful, but there is nothing like the true "science" behind experimenting with those shadows. What I would like to encourage each of you to do is actually "study" real shadows. If you have never really studied and "seen" shadows it is hard to emulate them in your work. For today's post I grabbed one of my daughter's teddy bears and a flashlight.

As I shot the pictures and had my husband hold the flashlight in varying positions it was easy to capture a wide variety of shadow positions and lengths. You will even notice a secondary shadow based on the direction coming from the overhead light. When coloring my image I decided to eliminate that shadow.

Simply play with a flashlight and an object, snapping photos as you go to reference when you go back to begin coloring shadows.

 

Please try to ignore the secondary shadows created by snapping these pictures. I thought it might be easier to share this shadow "lesson" by being able to move teddy out of the way, but now he is creating his own shadows in these photos - LOL!

The first example I created was a more elongated shadow. I begin by creating a very soft outline using my lightest marker - in this case W00.

 

I then moved Bennie out of the way so that you could see the outline I had drawn.

 

I then colored in the shadow using a range of markers from W00 through W2.

 

Everything was going swimmingly as I worked on my image softening the edges with a colorless blender to make the shadows disappear along the edges and then my OOPS moment. I put the wrong cap on my marker and accidentally put the darkest color to the edge. No correcting that error. So on to attempt number two.

This time I decided to try a different photo and used the image bear above as my example.

Remember that shadows are darkest right next to your object and get lighter as you move away. If your light source is close by your shadow will be much more crisp, if your light source is a long way away your shadow will be barely visible.

 

Shadows move and change depending on the direction of the light, how close the light is to the object and so much more. Experimentation, playing with your flashlight and then snapping photos can be THE best learning tool when it comes to figuring out shadows. The key once again is to simply enjoy the process and not make yourself crazy if it doesn't go right the first time! Simply give it a try and have fun - as you practice and experiment I can assure you that you will get better. It is like everything in life - you have to try it, then you have to practice and pretty soon you will start looking at what you have created and simply grin from ear to ear because you will think, "I did it!"

Thank you for once again stopping in here at the CLASSroom - I hope that you learned something and perhaps had a moment in the day where you just smiled!

 
stamps: Lockhart Bennie Bear and IB Candy Heart, Memory Box Happy Valentine's Day

ink: Memento Tuxedo Black and Rich Cocoa, Copic Markers - W00, W0, W2, Colorless Blender

paper: Neenah Classic Crest Solar White, Memory Box Cherry Blossom Notecard and 6x6 Pixie

accessories: EK Success Deco Scallop Punch, Pink Small Organza Roses Ribbon

Christmas Photo Tray by Sharon Harnist

Remember when I made this Fall photo tray project?  I promised a Christmas version and here it is!  When I made the Fall tray, I used repositionable adhesive to hold each panel in the tray.  That made it easy to remove each section and store them until next Fall, enabeling me to change out this tray seasonally!

 

Once you decorate one of these trays, you'll be hooked -- they are so much fun! Here's how I created each section, starting at the top:

 

On the top left is Spellbinders Wreath die, cut from a Memory Box Dill Notecard.  I sanded the embossed areas of the die cut, then added Christmas Red Stickles for berries.  Jillibean Soup Red Twine ties up the the wreath that is adhered with  EK Success 3D Dots.

 

In the center of the wreath, I placed our family monogram using Ellen's Traditional Seasonal Alphabet Digital Download -- a red letter H tied up with a bow coordinated perfectly with these gorgeous Webster's Pages Waiting For Santa Petite Papers I used!  The darling Christmas Wish List in the center section is a fabulous Melissa Frances Retro Printed Chipboard piece!  I thought it might be fun to have my girls write their wish list to Santa here!

 

For the top right section, I made a Tim Holtz Paper Rosette and topped it with another piece of the Retro Printed Chipboard.  The Christmas tree is a fabulous dimensional Melissa Frances resin Christmas Tree that I airbrushed with these Copic markers:

 

The YG63 was used to base airbrush coat the tree, then YG97 used to add depth directly with the brush tip.  These colors were still a little too bright for the papers, so I finished the piece with a light airbrushing of E25 to give it a more antiqued look.  The tiny tag in the middle far right side, tied with red twine is another MF chipboard piece!

 

On the bottom left section, I hand trimmed a letter "A" ornament from the Webster's paper (both my girls' names start with an A!) and popped it up with foam squares on top of a Martha Stewart Large Snowflake punched piece of cream Webster's paper.  The center section has another Melissa Frances Retro Printed Chipboard snowman that says "Holiday Memories" and is accented with a Melissa Frances Candy Cane.

 

The photo of my girls was framed with Spellbinders Snowflake Frame, cut from more Webster's Waiting For Santa paper.  The bottom right section has another Retro Printed Chipboard "the Season's Greetings" large postage stamp adorning the Webster's paper.

 

Thanks for visiting the CLASSroom today -- I hope this Christmas home decor piece puts you in the holiday spirit on this almost first day December!  ~ Sharon

Paper: Webster's Pages Petite Papers-Waiting For Santa, Copic X-Press It Blender Card, Memory Box Dill Notecard,
Dies & Punches: Spellbinders Wreath & Snowflake Frame; Sizzix Tim Holtz Paper Rosette Decorative Strip Die, Martha Stewart Large Snowflake punch,
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black
Copic Markers: YG63, YG97, Y26, R39, E25
Accessories: Copic Airbrush System, 7 Gypsies Black Photo Tray, Melissa Frances Christmas Tree Applique, Retro Printed Chipboard & Candy Canes; Traditional Seasonal Alphabet Digital Download, Ranger Stickles-Christmas Red, Jillibean Soup Red & Brown Twine, Sanding Block, EK Success 3D Dots, Glue Dots-Mini & 3/8",

October Calendar by Sharon Harnist

 
 
I know October is a third over already, but I'm just now finding time on this school and Columbus Day holiday to finish my October calendar!  So I thought I would share that with you all today.  You may remember when I introduced you to my 2010 calendar for this year, here.  It's a mini-book style, made out of 4-inch square pieces of Ellen's fabulous Craft-A-Board!  You could prep one of these calendar books for next year to give as a gift, leaving space for the recepient to add photos of their own as the year goes along, if you wish!

I started by cutting two pieces of Craft-A-Board 4-inches square and then round the corners with Crop-a-Dile Corner Chomper:

 

Next, I chose papers from Cosmo Cricket's Matilda Mini Deck and covered the Craft-a-Board with them, using a glue stick.  Then I stamped Karen Lockhart's sweet new Basket of Leaves with Memento Rich Cocoa ink onto Copic's new X-Press It Blending Card.  I noticed Ellen has several affordable package options of this fabulous new cardstock available now -- you can find them here!  Your Copic markers will blend wonderfully on this new cardstock and you won't see any feathering of marker color or stamped lines like you might on other cardstocks. 

Here's a quick step-out of the Copic markers I used on the basket image, chosen to match the Matilda papers (click on any photo for a larger view):

 
L - E31 on the basket, YR21 on the basket cross weaves and leaves, pumpkin & apples.  R - E33 & E35 on the basket and fruit stems.

 
L - YR16 on some leaves and pumpkin.  R - YR18 to deepen the pumpking and some leaves.

G82 & G85 on leaves and one apple.

Sorry I didn't get a photo of the last few steps:

R24 on last apple.
E31 & E33 on what I decided would be pods or nuts in the basket and to finish the basket rim, some E37.
YR16 & YR18 on the flowers on each side of the basket.
W1 & W3 to shade under the basket and for the blowing leaf trails.
Gold Atyou Spica Glitter Pen accents everything.

I cut out the image and popped it up on foam tape.  Now, take a look at my finished colored image next to the papers I chose:

 

I love the bright white of the Copic X-Press It Blending Card -- it produces very crisp and vivid colors.  But notice how different it is (bright white) than the ivory of the patterned papers and Neenah Natural White cardstock that I printed my computer-generated calendar on?  Now this may not bother some people, but it bothers the perfectionist in me, LOL!  So what to do?  Here's where your hand-dandy Copic E50 Egg Shell comes to the rescue!

 

I used it to color any of the remaining white areas of the basket image.  In the photo above, I started on the right side of the image, up to where the tip of the marker is pointing -- the left side of the image still remains white, so you can see the difference the Egg Shell marker makes!

And here's a close-up of the finished image -- hopefully you can see the nice sparkle the glitter pen adds (click for a larger view):

 

I used Martha Stewart's Picket Fence Edger Punch and Maple Leaf Punch to punch more Matilda paper for accents on this page.  The leaves were edged with Copic E35, crumpled and added with Mini Glue Dots.

For the right side of my calendar, I cut the Cosmo Cricket Matilda pumpkin background paper a little smaller than the 4-inch Craft-a-Board and colored the edges of the Craft-a-Board with Copic G85 marker.  Next, I die cut my computer-generated calendar with a Spellbinders Labels Four die and sponged the edges with Ranger Antique Linen Distress Ink.  It is popped up on foam tape.  

 

Cosmo Cricket's Tiny Type Brown sticker letters make the 'october' word on top of my calendar.  Using Spellbinders Nested Maple Leaf die, I die cut & embossed green plaid Matilda paper, sanded the edges, and then machine stitched it.  Strands of ribbon make "hinges" to hold the two calendar pieces together like a book!

Thanks for joining us today -- Happy Columbus Day!  ~ Sharon

 
Stamps: Lockhart Basket of Leaves
Paper: Cosmo Cricket Matilda Mini Deck & Tiny Type Brown letter stickers, Copic X-Press It Blending Card
Ink: Memento Rich Cocoa, Ranger Antique Linen Distress Ink
Copic markers: YR21, YR16, YR18, R24, E31, E33, E35, E37, E50, G82, G85, W1; Gold Atyou Spica Glitter Pen
Accessories: Essentials by Ellen Craft-a-Board, Crop-a-Dile Corner Chomper, Spellbinders Labels Four & Nested Maple Leaf die sets, Martha Stewart Picket Fence Edger Punch & Maple Leaf Punch, Sanding Block, Mini Glue Dots

Paper Flowers by Susan Tierney Cockburn and Ellen Hutson

Today's post is going to be a LONG one, but I think you will want to make certain to read all the way to the end as we have some very special blog candy today :-D

First off I would like to remind you to join in the fun of our flower parade by adding a link to your flower creation. Go to Becky's August 2nd post and link us up :-D

One of the greatest blessings of my job is the wonderful women who are a part of my life! It is with both sadness and joy that I share with you that Kim Hughes will be taking on some wonderful new adventures in life. Kim's creativity will be missed here in the CLASSroom, but I am so very supportive of her new ventures and wish her much success as she joins the talented Provocraft team - Congratulations Kim!!! The good news is that our friendship will always remain and I look forward to the times that she will come back as our guest. We love you and will miss you here in the CLASSroom sweet Kim!

As I shared above it is the friendships, that I have developed from being involved in this dream of sharing creativity with others, that are so very precious to me. It has been a couple of years now since Susan and I met. Today was one of THE most special days - creating together with Susan, collaborating on this project, makes me smile inside and out!

Susan Tierney Cockburn has been creating beautiful paper flowers since she was confined indoors during a snow storm many years ago. Gardening and baking are two of her passions and she excels at both! My family gasps with delight each time I come home with that special white box with it's gold seal - they know that something absolutely delicious awaits them. To see more about what I am referring to you MUST visit Susan's culinary blog! We thank you Susan for sharing your love and incredible culinary skills with us! AND today I thank you for sharing your beautiful flower making techniques with me and with all of you.

Susan has developed the art of creating the most exquisite flowers from punched shapes. She has researched in depth each flower variety and then worked until she has perfected the art of that flower. She is the author of multiple books in which she shares the "how-to" create these beauties. We carry her latest book in our store and one VERY lucky person will be the recipient of an autographed version by leaving Susan a comment on this post!!! In my opinion this is a must-have book in your library if you are passionate about gardening. Creating these miniature little versions of the flowers we love is so very rewarding.

Today we are going to share Susan's techniques for creating this beautiful hydrangea grouping!

Begin by punching little natural white hydrangea's using the Martha Stewart 3-in1 Hydrangea punch. Use a pen, such as a Sakura glaze pen, to push down on the center of each flower to shape or create a "cupped" shape. Add color to the centers with a YG00 Copic marker. Once you have completed all of these little blooms create your base.

 

We used the very tip top of a small styrofoam egg. Typically Susan uses a small styrofoam ball as her base, but we made do as I didn't have one. Styrofoam is quite versatile and Susan squished it down slightly to flatten the tip slightly. It is important to cover the styrofoam using a circle of Mulberry paper. This serves two purposes. It gives a nice green base for whatever peeks through the surface and it helps keep the glue from absorbing into the styrofoam.

 

Use a white craft glue such as Flower Soft's glue or Crafter's Pick Ultimate glue. It is easiest to apply the glue using a toothpick and holding the small petal with a self-closing tweezer as shown above.

Place each petal on to your base.

We used a toothpick to hold it our base in position as shown above. This allowed Susan to place the petals down to the bottom part of the base without disturbing the other petals while they were drying. Continue to position petals until the entire surface is covered.

There are many ways to color the hydrangea petals - today we decided to use the Copic airbrush system. You know me - I love to airbrush :-D

As you can see Susan brought a variety of gorgeous hydrangeas from her garden to inspire our color selections. If you look at each picture you will see the fabulous variety that can be created.

I began with B63, then B66, V15, B69, R59 and ended with B39. Use short bursts of air and keep spinning your hydrangea bundle as you work to allow the ink to vary. It looks so much more natural that way.

I began with B63, then B66, V15, B69, R59 and ended with B39. Use short bursts of air and keep slowly turning your hydrangea bundle as you work to allow the ink to vary. It looks so much more natural that way.

Then Susan added Ultrafine Flower Soft to the centers by putting a small dot of glue in the center of each blossom. Again use your toothpick to complete this portion. This was a combination of Sage and Vanilla.
 

Next Susan created the large sized leaves. Susan had some prepunched leaves with her, but we could have used the Martha Stewart Rose Leaf to come close to this shape. Using a stylus Susan creates veins in the leaves.

Next she added depth to the leaves using an ink blending tool and Forest Moss ink.

  

We didn't have the same paper to punch out the Ivy leaves, so we created what turned out to be THE perfect Ivy paper. Tattered Angels English Ivy mist to the rescue. We spritzed it on to Natural White Neenah cardstock, dried it with our Heat It tool and then punched out the little leaves.

Once again we created veins - the first vein runs the length of the leaf, then flip it over and add four additional angled veins.

 

Next Susan holds the leaves with the self-closing tweezers and pinches them to shape them. We decided we needed to add a little more yellow green. To keep these little treasures from blowing away during airbrushing create a circle from the remaining cardstock.

Add color to the ivy vine (OK so it really is a Flower Soft wire :-D) with a Copic marker.

 

Wrap the wire around the bird cage curling the ends by wrapping them around the tip of the stylus. Position the ivy leaves along the wire and allow to dry.

Alter the white mat with distress ink.

 

As you can see these minature versions are incredibly realistic.

Whenever you see delicate paper flowers you can envision Susan working in her garden. Many of us have learned and will continue to learn from this beautiful woman who I am privileged to call my friend. So whenever you see a delicate paper bloom you can think of Susan's garden - she is the mastermind behind this beautiful art form!

Today we are sharing Susan's book, Paper Bouquet with one of you. To participate simply leave a comment on this post before midnight Saturday, August 7th. We will use the random number generator to select our winner. Please note that our winner will not be posted until Tuesday, so please do not worry - we will not forget :-D So please leave some love for Susan and Kim in this post to be entered.

Thank you for joining us again today!

paper: Neenah Classic Crest Natural White, Webster's Pages 6x6

ink:Copic Markers (see picture above), Tattered Angels English Ivy Glimmer Mist, Antique Linen, Pumice, Vintage Photo, Walnut Stain and Forest Moss Distress Ink Pads

accessories: Martha Stewart Punches - 3 in 1 Hydrangea, Rose Leaf and Fall Leaves, Craft-a-Board, Real Wood Cherry, Sticky Back Canvas, Tim Holtz Caged Bird Die, Chandelier Crystals, Antique Brass Jump Rings, Teensie Butterfly, Sage and Vanilla Ultrafine Flower Soft

Feminine Birthday Blessings by Sharon Harnist

 

Hello and thanks for visiting today!  As we continue with our "Goodbye to CHF" week here on the CLASSroom, I have a new card to share with you that uses three of CHF's wonderful lines of stamps -- The Rummage Bin, Kim Hughes & Mona Lisa Moments.  As of this writing, all the products I used were in stock but you'll need to hurry if you'd like to add any of these stamps to your collection, as they are disappearing fast!

I thought I would use one of my favorite Rummage Bin sets, Primitive Christmas, to show how it can be used for other occasions, too.  I used the journaling block from the set and stamped it with Memento Rich Cocoa ink onto Neenah Natural White cardstock -- don't worry about the sleigh, we'll cover it up later!

 

Then I used different sentiments from Mona Lisa Moments-Classic Essential Expressions that would pertain to a birthday and stamped them onto the journaling lines using Worn Lipstick Distress ink. Some of the phrases I used were Happy Birthday, Birthday Blessings, Celebrating You, Birthday Wishes, Oh Happy Day, and Wish Big.  With more than 62 phrases to mix and match in this set, you'll always have the perfect sentiment to choose from!

 

To make the journaling card match the patterned papers I chose, I lightly airbrushed it with Copic R20 marker.  The edges were distressed a little, using Tim Holtz's Paper Distresser and inked with Antique Linen Distress ink.

 

Next, I stamped the solid leaf and outline flowers from Kim Hughes-Collage Elements, using Adirondack Lettuce dye ink & Worn Lipstick Distress inks.  I colored the flowers with Copic markers R20 & R22 and then decided to experiment with some of the fabulous new Glitter Ritz glitter Ellen recently added to the store.

 

I wanted to test the results of using different adhesives for the Transparent Microfine Glitter-Warm Highlights, so I tried Ranger Glossy Accents on the flower on the left and Art Glitter Designer Dries Clear Adhesive on the right flower.  Each dried perfectly clear, which is a great thing when working with transparent glitter because anything you use under transparent glitter will show through.  That can be a good thing when it pertains to seeing underlying color but a bad thing when it pertains to adhesive!  As expected, the Glossy Accents left a finish that was more shiny and the Art Glitter Adhesive's finish was more matte.  Hopefully you can see all the pretty glitter by clicking on the photo below for a larger view:

 

See how the Copic shading still shows through the glitter, once it is dry?  Awesome stuff!  To finish my card, I adhered strips of Basic Grey's darling new Olivia 6x6 patterned papers onto thin cardstock and then die cut them with Spellbinders Labels Eight largest die.  EK Success Donut Chain Edger Punch was used to punch more pink paper from the Olivia pad and it was added to the lower part of the card, dividing the paper patterns.  This piece was adhered to a folded card base that was also die cut with the Labels Eight die.

Thanks for joining us today! ~ Sharon

 
Stamps: CHF The Rummage Bin-Primitive Christmas, Kim Hughes-Collage Elements, Mona Lisa Moments-Classic Essential Expressions
Paper: Basic Grey Olivia 6x6, Neenah Natural White
Ink: Memento Rich Cocoa; Ranger Adirondack Lettuce dye ink & Worn Lipstick & Antique Linen Distress inks; Copic markers R20 & R22
Accessories: Copic Airbrush System, Spellbinders Nestabilities-Labels Eight die set, EK Success Donut Chain Edger Punch, Art Glitter Designer Dries Clear Adhesive, Ranger Glossy Accents, Glitter Ritz Transparent Microfine Glitter-Warm Highlights, Tonic Tim Holtz Paper Distresser

More Oldies but Goodies by Lisa Strahl

The Cornish Heritage Farms blowout continues and I have more designs that were created over the past few years to share with you.

PLEASE NOTE:  If you see a product that has not been listed and linked to, it likely means that it is no longer available.  Please leave a message in the comment section if you have a question and I will try to answer it there.  Thanks!

Photo Op Stamp Set - $14.99

You will need to click on the link to the stamp set to see what images from the set are featured on this card.  Several of the frames and the sentiment were used to create the collage.  Inks used include Weathered Wood, Tea Dye, Vintage Photo, Old Paper and Black Soot Distress Ink.  The rough edge on the card was created using the Tonic Paper Distresser.

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Fine Finials Backgrounder - $7.19

This 7 Gypsies bracelet was created by stamping the Fine Finials Backgrounder with Coffee Archival Ink on Lagoon Cardstock and punched with the 5/8 circle punch.

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Here is a series of SIMPLE Arturo cards with a little stamping and coloring.

Cutie Pet-Tootie stamp set - $10.19 and Cute Curls stamp set (sentiment) - $8.99

This image was colored with Copic Markers and detailed with Prisma Color Pencils.

 

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Let's Get Stuffed stamp set - $8.99

This image was watercolored with Adirondack Reinkers (Ranger).

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Vases stamp set - $5.99 and sentiment from Cute Curls - $13.19

The open line art vases in this set are ideal for paper piecing your favorite patterned paper!

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Cute Curls - $13.19

Images colored with Copic Markers.

It's almost the weekend friends!

Lisa

Cute Magnetic Message Station by Kim Hughes

I love hanging pictures on my wall as a kid (and I still do) I hope that this is a project that you can see yourself doing with a special child or two in your life.  I altered a Maya Road embellishment tin...and it was OH SO EASY to do.  Weather your little one would display photos of her and her BFF or that dreamy boy that she oogles at school (along with his phone number possibly), this project can be enjoyed for any child at any age. 
 

supplies:

Zva Creative: Ice and Fire Crystal, Jet

Silk Ribbon, Ivory 1 1/4" wide by the Yard

Chipboard Foundation (any Maya Road tin will work)

Nested Butterfly

Essentials by Ellen: Art Magnetic Masking Material

Jenni Bowlin Memo Book, Orange, Mini Papers, Homespun

Ribbon, Vintage Crochet Trim, Wave, White, Ribbon Lace, Donegal

Martha Stewart Craft Punch, Classic Butterfly, Martha Stewart Craft Punch, 3-in-1 Classic Butterfly

start by punching and die cutting butterflies from a magnetic sheet.  They work beautifully with a metal tin.

I also punched the same shapes from patterned paper.  I thought that black crystals would be fun to add to the butterfly centers, so I cut them from a full flourish.

I cut down 2 journal papers to fit on the inside of the tin and rounded the edges with a corner rounder punch.

The paper butterflies are adhered to the magnetic base in the center only so that the wings will stand out and add dimension.  I then added white lace to the inside walls of the tin with a liquid glue.

I added liquid glue along the outside edge and adhered green lace along the rim.

a little dab of liquid glue once again..to the tip of each lace design is all it takes to adhere them to the inside of the tin.

Here is what it looks like when it's complete.  Covering that metal edge gave it a finished hand made look.

I punched a hole in the bottom so that a tag message could be hung.  You can mass produce possible message tags that can be hung from this magnetic wall hang. Messages like knock first, I am not home, go away or text me maybe?

It's easy to add ribbon to the back to hang on the wall or a door knob. 

Make more than one and arrange them side by side on the wall (some vertical, some horizontal)  Make them into shadow boxes.  Embellish the clear lid and showcase keepsakes in the box and display on your wall.  I hope that I shared enough basics to make this project your own.  Have fun!

Thank You Blocks by Kim Hughes

Color blocking is a timeless look that I took advantage of today when creating my card.  

 

Supplies:

Adirondack Dye Ink Pad, Butterscotch

Hero Arts: Cling Messages, Set of 3, Gemstones, Small Blossom, Fancy Felt, Buttons,Spring, Gemstones, Smooth Clear Round, Art Flowers, White & Cream, Card Buttons, Flowers

Cosmo Cricket 6" Mini Deck Paper Pad, Garden Variety, Cosmo Cricket 6" Mini Deck Paper Pad, Delovely, Cosmo Cricket Buttons, Garden Variety

Inchie + Squares, White

Dew Drops Bottle, Plumeria

Maya Road: Ribbon, Ruffle Edge Trim, Cream, Mini Chipboard Set, Houses

Vintaj: Bead Cap, Blossom 6mm

Basic Grey Woolies, Sugar Rush

inchies are so perfect for this.  Cover them with paper, paint on them, stamp on them...have fun!

 

Use the squares as temporary building blocks to work around
 

punch a butterfly, embellish a cute metal flower and cover a house chipboard shape with paper to represent an arrow
 

cut down a clear clock and tuck into a corner
 

embellish the yellow square with a clear flower button...and the flower with a sweet dew drop

change up the colors...or create a monochromatic look!

Have a BLAST!!

Sweet 16 - Be Creative Glitter Stickers

There is a VERY special young lady in our household and she has a big day coming up this week! Yesterday as I stood besider her in the bathroom I looked in the mirror only to realize that she is now taller than I am. Not only is she beautiful on the outside, but her beauty radiates from within. As a mom it brings tears to my eyes when her teachers, and other parents, tell me what a kind and thoughtful daughter we have. But what surprises me is when her friends tell me that someday, when they are all grown up, they hope that their daughters will be like Maddi. My children are such a huge blessing in my life and I cannot begin to imagine my life without them. Each and every day I watch them grow into the young women they will become and feel grateful for being given the opportunity to be their mom. So without further ado - I love you my sweet Maddi and I am so very proud of the adult you are growing into. Nothing can state better the sentiment of this card - Happy Birthday my sweet 16-yr-old. Thank you for being you!

Now enough of the proud mom stuff - LOL! Nothing speaks "sweet 16" better than bold, bright, fun colors and a little glitter :-D It is amazing to me that when I put boundaries on what it is that I am going to create how easily it all comes together. This week the challenge I gave myself was to use the same products that our team will be using here in the CLASSroom - Hero Arts, Inchie Arts and Cosmo Cricket. I immediately knew what I wanted to use - Delovely, it is so very lovely. Combine it with some of the bold Hero Arts stamp designs and a few Inchie squares and you will have a perfect card for your teen.

A very hot trend is to use glitter letters and numbers on our cards. Today I am going to share a little secret with you - you can easily make your own custom glitter sticker letters/numbers in any color you would like using Be Creative Tape and any color of glitter. We are going to be carrying some Ultrafine glitter shortly that will coordinate with the paper colors we carry, but for now I used some of the fabulous, regular Martha Stewart glitter we carry.

To begin I cut squares from the Be Creative sheets using the Tim Holtz Sizzlits Alpha Vintage Market Die. The sheets are so easy to use because they come already backed. I haven't tested to see if I can adhere the regular tape to a different surface before cutting, but it is something I will be experimenting with. For now I just went with what I guessed would work. You know me - always testing and experimenting - LOL!

First remove the portion of the tape that the adhesive is not sticking too. I played around with trying to figure out which side the adhesive would stay adhered to and it appears to me that it is the side I have facing up when I punch - but I'm just not certain yet. You may need to experiment with this depending on what type of die you are using.

I removed the white backing and using a tweezer located the number in position. Next burnish the number in place using a teflon bone folder. As you can see on the number "1" I did not get a clean cut - this worked to my advantage. As I removed the backing, the adhesive stayed on the number one and not the surrounding area. If it had I would have snipped around the number, but as it was I was able to easily use the extra paper like a little "handle."

 

Sprinkle glitter over the adhesive and then burnish in place with the teflon bone folder. Use a soft brush to remove the excess.

WARNING: This is section is NOT a recommended technique - so proceed at your own risk - you may destroy your punch! BUT I just couldn't help myself and had to give it a try - LOL! Guess what it worked :-D

Curiosity killed the cat you know and being a curious one myself I just had to try this next technique. It is not recommended that you punch through the tape with regular punches, never mind highly detailed ones like the Deep Garden Trellis! BUT I had to test it for myself and found the results to be simply breathtaking.

Once again I used the Be Creative Tape sheets due to the backing being in place. I punched my design in the tape being very careful to remove any excess bits of paper or adhesive that appeared on the underside of my punch with each pass through. One of the incredible things I discovered about these punches is the amazing detail in the way that the punch is designed. The engineering is so well thought out. These detailed punches do not punch through your paper in all one area. The punch is designed so that there are peaks and valleys to allow the punch to pass through only small portions of the design at one time. I would like to suggest that you take a look at the bottom of your punches - it really was an eye-opener for me. So cool!

Once I had my design the width I felt worked best I removed the backing. What I found was that this time the brown backing needed to be removed (just the opposite of my Sizzlet punched image) and the adhesive remained on the white portion as shown above.

I positioned my design and then once again burnished it in place. I followed the same procedure with the glitter - applying it and burnishing it in place, then using a soft brush to remove the excess.

As you can see the detail of the punched designs is incredible! Following are some cutting techniques I have tried, or plan to try:

• Sizzix, Sizzlet and other steel blade dies,
• Low profile dies such as the Nestabilities,
• Punches - these are ones I canNOT fully endorse because of the possibility of ruining your punches, but...my oh my are these every cool,
• Cricut or Silhouette electronic cutters - I'm going to be giving this a try soon. I can hardly wait to see what the results will be.

The other experiment that needs to occur is what types of media I can apply once I remove the second side of the adhesive. Following are just a few of the products worth experimenting with:

• Glitter (of course)
• Fun Flock (I punched out a little bunny and applied white fun flock, adding a little pom pom tail - OH SO CUTE!)
• Perfect Pearls
• Dried, crushed flowers and leaves
• Flower Soft - Ultrafine may be way cool - I can hardly wait to try!
• Gold Leaf - wowsers this will be gorgeous!

So many ideas - so little time :-D You all have to help me out here by playing with these ideas and giving me your feedback - LOL!

Next, was the selection of my image. One of the beautiful things about the 6x6 pads is the wonderful scale of the images on these papers. I selected a Hero Arts image that was bold and beautiful. I love the fact that the images come mounted on a storage sheet that I can also use to locate the perfect portion of paper to stamp my image. 

 
Stamping the image three times on different papers made for the perfect layered flower! I LOVE the design of this Hero Arts image for paper piecing!

Using a 2-way glitter pen I added details to the leaves and top flower. Sprinkling the same turquoise glitter as used on the numbers and trellis. I allowed the adhesive to dry and then once again used a soft brush to remove the excess glitter.

Tip: When threading buttons I keep a needle threader handy and simply insert my DMC Embroidery floss using this handy, dandy tool. 

The final details include Black Inchie+ Squares covered in decorative paper, a Tiny Type sticker (these are fabulous stickers and such a great value!) and a silk ribbon tab.
 

stamps: Hero Arts Big Flower Pattern

paper: Cosmo Cricket Delovely 6x6 Paper Pad, Memory Box Sunflower Cardstock

ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

accessories: Be Creative Tape Sheets, Tim Holtz Alpha Vintage Market Sizzlet Die, Martha Stewart Turquoise Glitter, Pink Tiny Type Stickers, Black Inchie Square, Black Inchie+ Squares, 2-way Glue Pen, Teflon Bone Folder, Fuschia Silk Ribbon

Be certain to visit our "*Weekly Special" section and use promo code HAIACC upon checkout when purchasing any of the Cosmo Cricket, Hero Arts and Inchie Arts products we have used in this weeks posts!

Forever Begins Now Card by Julia Stainton

Love must be in the air as wedding season kicks off with the beautiful weather. If you have a wedding to go to this year, consider making a special hand-crafted card for the event. The new Basic Grey Cappella line makes wedding themed projects elegant and timeless treasures.

There is nothing I love more than flowers on a project. For this card I'll show you how to create your own rolled flowers out of simple paper strips and inspired by Becky's ruffle trend post, add a sweet little lace ruffle. Here's how to do it.

Start by creating your 5.25" square card base from Neenah Classic Cream Cardstock. I've used a piece of Robin's Egg Cardstock by Memory Box as a thin mat and also for some accents. I seriously love this color and it matches Cappella perfectly! Adhere the layers of gorgeous Cappella patterned paper from the 6x6 paper pad.

To easily create ruffled lace, thread a piece of Farmer's Market twine onto a needle and straight stitch through the holes of some Prima lace. I suggest cutting a piece of lace approximately twice the length you wish to cover.

Place a piece of Wonder Tape along the edge and adhere the ruffled lace to the project, evenly spacing your gathers as you go. Press down well. You may wish to apply a tiny dot of Glossy Accents to the ends of the thread to adhere them in place.

To create a rolled paper flower, cut two strips of 1"x12" Cappella 12x12 paper.

Adhere ends slightly overlapping and then fold the strip in half. Your strip should be approximately 1/2" x 23". Crumple and twist the strip in your hands until it is pliable and easy to form.

 

Starting at the center, adhere your flower to a scrap piece of paper. Twist, turn and roll paper as you go. I like to use a hot glue gun as it adheres well and dries quickly. After your flower is as large as you wish, trim excess paper from beneath your flower and adhere to project.

 

I've added a couple Jenni Bowlin Buttons to my embellishment cluster and a Maya Road Crystal Trinket Pin. The little Classic butteflies were punched from some of the Robin's Egg cardstock stamped with the Vintage Text Scrapblock by Cornish Heritage Farms.

 

The "Forever begins now" sentiment is from the Wedding Centers stamp set by CHF. Here it is stamped onto more Robin's Egg cardstock with Jet Black Archival Ink by Ranger. The little tab is created by die-cutting the paper with the Labels Four die by Spellbinders. Some mini staples from the Tiny Attacher hold it in place.

 

Thanks for stopping by the CLASSroom today! I hope this inspired you to get creating!