Shop for Paper Craft and Art Supplies

COME JOIN US!

Essentials by Ellen Challenges

Blog Our Blinkie

Subscribe to this blog's feed

Your email address:


Powered by FeedBlitz

Categories

Valentines

February 03, 2017

Love You So Much by Sharon Harnist

Hello and happy Friday, Friends -- Welcome to the last day of Embellishment week here in the CLASSroom!  Today I will be showing you a little more about Darcie's Heart & Home Tin Pins:

2-3 TinPins-SH

You may remember this post I did a few weeks ago, where I gave you the Copic marker matches to some of the popular Tin Pins Ellen carries.  That is where I showed Copic R22 and R24 match this cute Darcie's Heart & Home Love "Hearts" Tin Pins Frenchie Mustache Heart-man, along with the Copic matches for his Sweetheart!  This way, you can color the Love "Hearts" stamped images to closely match the coordinating Tin Pin!

12-Darcies-Love-Hearts-SH

These sweet little 1-inch dimensional tin embellishments give a fun pop and dimension to their coordinating stamp sets, or can be used alone to create quick and easy one-of-a-kind projects!  Be sure to check out the previously-mentioned blog post, to see a fun card made using only Tin Pins!

2-3 TinPinHeartYou-SH

For the background of this card, I chose the fun Taylored Expressions Falling Hearts Cutting Plate. To get started, I die cut Ranger Watercolor Paper, (from left to right below): Taylored Expressions Lollipop, Cherry Pop, and Oreo cardstock with the cutting plate. (I originally chose the watercolor paper because I was going to give the background a light pink watercolor wash, but ended up not doing so. But I still love the texture this paper gives the card!). Be sure to use a Metal Adaptor Plate in your die cutting sandwich to ensure good clean cuts with an intricate background such as this.

2-3 TinPinHeartYou-SH

Next, I used the curved scalloped edge die from Concord & 9th's Bags & Tags die set to cut the lower edge of the watercolor paper.

Then I stamped the cute heart-man with Memento Tuxedo Black and colored him with these Copic markers:

2-3 TinPinHeartYou-SH

For the sentiment, I used the bubble die from Concord & 9th's Bags & Tags die set to die cut Smooth Bristol cardstock, then I used my Misti and Memento Tuxedo Black Marker and Love Letter Marker to ink and stamp the sentiment in two different colors. The Misti allows for repeated stamping of any parts of the words that may not get good coverage using this method of marker inking.

2-3 TinPinHeartYou-SH

To finish the card, I adhered the die cut background to a beautiful piece of Bazzill Metallic Gold Foil cardstock, using my favorite adhesive for heavy or hard-to-hold surfaces like these: X-Press It Double-Sided High Tack Tape. Next, I picked out some hearts from each of the die cut backgrounds above (pink, red and black) and glued them into place using Matte Multi Medium: 

2-3 TinPinHeartYou-SH

A gold foil die cut heart was added to the sentiment bubble, which was popped up on X-Press It Foam Mounting Tape, and Sakura Clear Glaze Pen was used to cover the "You" in the sentiment, making it shiny!

2-3 TinPinHeartYou-CU2-SH

We hope you've enjoyed this week's focus on embellishments, as they really can push your projects over the edge and make them super special!

Sharon-A-Black

- supplies

Posted at 12:00 AM in Concord & 9th, Copic Markers, Embellishments, Taylored Expressions, Valentines | | Comments (2)

| | Pin It! |

January 31, 2017

#TexturalTuesdays - Button Love by Lisa

Hey there #TexturalTuesday friends! It's Embellishment Week here in the CLASSroom and I'm having some fun with the beautiful buttons from 28 Lilac Lane.

 

LisaAdametz-ButtonLove-01312017-1

I used Ranger Distress Paints in Barn Door, Seedless Preserves, Spun Sugar, and Picked Raspberry to create the background. I smooshed a little of each paint onto my work surface and then painted each color onto the rough side of the Ranger watercolor paper.

LisaAdametz-ButtonLove-01312017-2


Allow each color to overlap just a little for a more cohesive look. And, personally, I like the "brush stroke" look, so that is what I was going for. If you don't like that? Blend it out.

LisaAdametz-ButtonLove-01312017-3

Next, cut a piece of vellum into the shape of a heart. I used vellum for the sole purpose of transparency. I didn't want any cardstock behind the buttons. But do what you want to do, by all means! 

LisaAdametz-ButtonLove-01312017-4

Then just started attaching all the lovely buttons. I used Ranger's Multi Medium in Matte to do this because I knew it would hold on tight. I used a block to keep things firm I was glueing.

LisaAdametz-ButtonLove-01312017-5

This particular kit also includes sequins and beads of different sizes. I used those to fill in the gaps as you can see below.

LisaAdametz-ButtonLove-01312017-6

I die-cut the word "love" using Essentials by Ellen Designer Dies Brushstroke Love by Julie Ebersole using glitter paper and adhered it onto a piece of craft foam for extra depth.

LisaAdametz-ButtonLove-01312017-7

To make sure that the heart sticks on to the background REALLY good, doesn't warp, and has a bit of loft I used Thin 3-D Foam Squares. I like these particular ones because they come in two sizes and come in both black and white. And are SUPER strong.

LisaAdametz-ButtonLove-01312017-8

                                             (foam square overload!!)

 Then, just to set off the background from the card base, I wanted to create a shiny watercolor strip. So I broke out two colors from the Kuretake Gansai Tambi Starry Colors Watercolor set in Light Gold and White Gold.


LisaAdametz-ButtonLove-01312017-8



LisaAdametz-ButtonLove-01312017-8
Let me tell y'all? These colors are a dream!!! If you don't have them yet? Let me come over and sit down with you for a spell and we can have a little one on one while I look inside your head. Hahha!! Just kiddin'...sort of. ;)

After that piece of lusciousness is dry adhere it behind the background piece. Then attach the whole she-bang to the card base. But NOT before wrapping that piece of ribbon that is also included in that kit from 28 Lilac Lane. (I almost forgot...whoopsie!)

Finish it up with a few extra pearls from the kit. 

Here are some close-ups for ya!

Check out those pretty buttons!!!!

LisaAdametz-ButtonLove-01312017-11

Don't you just loooove Julie's sentiment when it's all glittered up?

LisaAdametz-ButtonLove-01312017-12

Do you use buttons when you craft? What's your favorite way to use them? I can't wait to hear!! Thank you so much for joining me today. And I hope you had fun!

Ellen-Supplies

 

Lisa Sig

Posted at 12:01 AM in #TexturalTuesdays, 28 Lilac Lane, Cards, Dies, Embellishments, Essentials by Ellen, Mixed Media, Valentines | | Comments (3)

| | Pin It! |

January 16, 2017

Hello, Monday 01.16.2017

Memento 01 web

(click on the pics to enbiggan)

I'm making a sweet and colorful background using Memento Dye Inks today--I consider these inks to be a great basic/staple item to have on hand.  They are water-based, fade resistant, fast drying and stamp crisply without feathering on smooth card stocks, such as Neenah Solar White, etc. and can be used with fine detail or bold/solid type images. As with any dye ink, crispness will vary when stamping on rough or textured surfaces such as watercolor paper and will depend on how well the ink pad is inked and how much pressure is applied when stamping the image onto those kinds of surfaces.

With water-based, non permanent dye inks such as Memento Dye, brand new clear stamps may need to be primed a bit to avoid beading up on the image surface.  There are a variety of ways to prime the surface, but an easy one that I use is to simply ink up the stamps with Versamark and then tap it off on scratch paper or wipe it off with my fingertips.  You can also give the stamps a scrub with a cleansing solution like Ultra Clean (which, BTW, my favorite stamp cleanser when I need something stronger than just water!) dry them with a lint free cloth and begin inking.

Memento 02 web

Link: Watch in HD on our YouTube Channel HERE.  Thanks for watching, subscribing and giving us a thumbs’ up!

Happy Mundane! ;)

1Julie

SUPPLIES:

Posted at 08:00 AM in Back to Basics, Cards, Dies, Essentials by Ellen, Ink Pads, Tips and Techniques, Valentines, Video | | Comments (12)

| | Pin It! |

January 09, 2017

Hello, Monday 01.09.2017

Chibi hearts HA web1

(click on the pics to enbiggan)

Chibi hearts lit web2

It's Chibitronics week--WOOT!!! And, we're also hopping along with Hero Arts today, featuring the add-ons from the January 2017 My Monthly Hero program!

Making a light up Valentine greeting seemed to suit! :)  I used images from two of the add-on stamp sets (Love Notes & Sealed with a Kiss), along with the Heart die that can be folded into an envelope--altho that's not 'zacly how I used it... *wink*

LINK:  Watch in HD on our YouTube Channel! Thanks for watching, subscribing and giving us a thumbs' up!

Be sure to stop by all the designer's along the hop to ogle the eye candy!

The folks at Hero Arts are giving away one kit as a prize to one blog reader - selected from the comments across all of the blogs in the hop. (Already purchased the kit? They'll reimburse ya'!) Giveaway closes Sunday, January 15 at 11:59pm, and the winner will be announced the following week at the Hero Arts blog. 

So.  My first parallel circuit was a win! Whaddya' think? Being rather scientifically challenged as I am, I figure if I can do it, ANYBODY can indeed do it, too! YAY!!! And, "GO, ME!!!" *virtual high five, anyone?*

Happy Mundane!

1Julie

SUPPLIES: 

Posted at 10:00 AM in Cards, Chibitronics, Hello, Monday, Hero Arts, Valentines, Video | | Comments (256)

| | Pin It! |

December 23, 2016

Darcie's Tin Pins + Copic Matches by Sharon Harnist

Happy Christmas Eve Eve!  :)  Sharon here with you today and I have some adorable new-to-me embellishments to share with you -- Tin Pins by Darcie's Heart & Home!

12-LoveHearts-SH

These sweet little (just under 1-inch) guys are metal (tin) dimensional "pins" but they have a flat back, so they are easily adhered to your projects. Think metal buttons/pins that are pre-printed (and colored beautifully, by the way!) that have coordinating clear stamp sets ... genius!  Hopefully you can see how nicely these little embellishments blend into their coordinating stamp sets, giving an unexpected pop of dimension!

12-LoveHeartsCU-SH

Above, I used the Love Hearts clear stamp set and coordinating Love Hearts Tin Pin. I stamped the darling heart with Memento Tuxedo Black ink onto Neenah 110 Lb. Solar White cardstock and used the following Copic markers to color her to match her coordinating Tin Pin (R81-83-85, Y11, G20-24, B12):

Love Hearts Tin Pin matches (the stamp set is shown on the top left, and the coordinating Tin Pins on the top right):

12-Darcies-Love-Hearts-SH

Using my Copic Hand Color Chart, I matched up a few more of these cute Tin Pins for you, with their coordinating Copic colors, so you can color the stamped images to match the Tin Pins as closely as possible. Again, the stamp set is shown on the top left, and the Tin Pins on the top right.  Click on the graphics to view these products in Ellen's store --

Pizza My Heart Tin Pin matches (RV14, Y00, R05-08 / N1, R81, B0000, B000, BG05):

12-Darcies-Pizza-My-Heart-SH

Sweetie Pie Tin Pin Copic matches (Y23-26, R81-83-85, B000, B00, B12 / R83-85) -- Just think how cute these would be, made into magnets for the fridge!

12-Darcies-Pizza-My-Heart-SH

To finish the card above, I die cut my cute little colored heart with MFT's Pierced Heart Stax Die-namics and used a doubled-up piece of X-Press It High Tack Double-Sided Tape to mount the Tin Pin over the stamped image. Next, I popped her up on X-Press It Foam Mounting Tape to a Bazzill Card Shoppe Pale Rose panel that was die cut with MFT's Blueprints 23 Die-namics stitched panel. A Blueprints 23 scalloped strip die cut from Bazzill Lollipop cardstock was placed beneath the heart.

Next, I wanted to show you that these adorable Tin Pins can also be used independently from their coordinating stamp sets, to create quick and easy projects!  Since tomorrow is Christmas Eve, I had to sneak in one last holiday card for you:

12-TinPinsJoyCard-SH

For this card, I used the three 1-1/4" circles panel from MFT's Blueprints 23 Die-namics to cut the perfectly-spaced holes in a 4-1/4" x 5-1/2" Neenah 110 Lb. Solar White panel, then I die cut the panel with Essentials by Ellen Stitches Cover Plate by Julie. Next, I popped the stitched panel up on foam tape over a Neenah Solar White 110 Lb. card base. Then I colored the three negative space circles with Copic markers R81, G20, and B00 and taped them back in place (recessed) on the card base:

12-TinPinsJoyCard-SH

Next, I adhered the cute Tin Pins (the pie and sugar Sweetie Pie Tin Pins are on the left and right, respectively; and Pizza My Heart coffee cup in the center) on top of the colored circles. Then I dressed them up, using stamped and die cut hats and a scarf from Essentials by Ellen Fat Pants by Julie stamps and coordinating Fat Pants Designer Dies!  The green hat was stamped with Taylored Expressions Granny Smith Premium Dye Ink, the blue scarf with Salt Water Taffy, and the pink hat with Strawberry Milkshake:

12-TinPinsJoyCard-SH

To finish this card, I die cut gold glitter cardstock with Julie's Brushstroke Joy and added it to the panel using rolled up Mini Glue Dots. The "Wishing You" sentiment is from Julie's Merry & Bright stamp set and was white heat embossed onto Gold Leaf cardstock and die cut with the flag banner from Blueprints 23. Didn't these little Tin Pins dress up adorably?!!

Wishing you all joy and a very Merry Christmas!

- supplies

Posted at 12:00 AM in Christmas Inspiration, Copic Markers, Embellishments, Essentials by Ellen, My Favorite Things, Taylored Expressions, Valentines | | Comments (11)

| | Pin It! |

August 11, 2016

Burnished Velvet Love Wedding Tag by Julia Stainton

Ready for some more glitter? Today I'm finishing up the week with one more Burnished Velvet Technique. I love the look of glitter but am the first to admit I don't use it often enough. It's so lovely and shiny and really amps up the elegance factor on any project.

  Tag-2

I decided to think outside the box on this project but couldn't quite decide what to create for this theme. The idea didn't actually come until I was sitting in my craft room looking through my stash. I find that if it isn't in view I often forget to use things and so I use a lot of open shelving. I decided to pair up the Burnished Velvet Technique with some of my favorite patterned paper and then a fun little twist came to mind.

Stencils.

Would they work with the adhesive and the Burnished Velvet Technique? I've never seen it done before. As you've already seen the finished project, I'll leave you to answer that and I'm really excited with the result. Here's how to do it...

Tag-layers

First of all I gathered my basic supplies that I wanted to use. I decided a tag would make a great addition to a wedding gift that I'll be giving and chose the largest tag die from the MFT Stamps Tag STAX die set. I've listed three different sets at the bottom of this post. Traditional, Pierced or Stitched edge, it really doesn't matter on this project. The patterned paper is from the Pink Paislee C'est la Vie 6x6 paper pack and is soooo lovely.

Tag-dies

The adhesive that works best with the Burnished Velvet Technique is the Be Creative Tape Sheets. Before cutting out my tag, I trimmed a panel of adhesive to a size that is slightly larger than my tag shape. Before cutting out the tag with the die-cut machine, I removed one piece of backing from this double sided adhesive and adhered it to the patterned paper. Then lay the tag die onto the paper/adhesive combo and die-cut.

Tag-adhesive

You are left with a tag shape once it's been run through the machine. Carefully remove the adhesive backing from the patterned paper to expose the adhesive. Be careful not to touch the adhesive or get it dirty.

Stencil-with-burnished-velvet

Now the FUN PART! Lay a clean plastic stencil over the adhesive and press down well on the surface of the tag. I've used the Tim Holtz Lace Stencil but any pretty stencil would look lovely.

Glitter-stencil

Cover the exposed adhesive areas with clear transparent glitter and press into the adhesive. Carefully removed excess glitter and place back into container to reuse. Remove the stencil slowly from the adhesive being careful not to smudge the glitter pattern.

Glitter-pattern

I'm not sure how well you'll be able to see it in this image but the glitter has only adhered to the areas where the stencil was not.

Gold-glitter-layer

Then place the fine gold glitter over top of the adhesive tag. Press gold glitter over the entire surface of the tag. It will only adhere in the areas where the transparent glitter did NOT coat the tag. As before, carefully remove excess glitter and put away into container.

Burnished-velvet-stencil-technique

The stencil pattern is now very visible and adds another beautiful layer of sparkly pattern. Burnish the glitter into the adhesive with a bone folder and then your finger to get a beautiful soft velvet-like finish.

Craftaboard-tag

Backing the tag makes it stronger and more durable. I love the Craft-a-Board product from Ellen Hutson LLC. I've used it for years and years. It can be used just like chipboard and the lighter color is much prettier. I die-cut the tag die from Craft-a-Board and then adhered it to the back of the technique tag.

Heart-charm

Adding in the embellishments is always a finishing touch. I love this sweet Tim Holtz Heart Charm. It comes with sticker hearts to choose from. Adhere it to the center of the charm and then finish off with the heart epoxy sticker.

Sponge-sentiment

I've clipped it and the sweet white Maya Road tassle to the project with Bronze Mini Safety Pins.

To create the love sentiment I've die-cut the Brushstroke Love Die from Essentials by Ellen from Solar White Cardstock. After adhering it to the front bottom, I lightly sponged the die cut with Magenta Pigment Ink and the Jumbo Dauber. I just can't get enough of these daubers and add a few more to each order I place. Having a wide range of them to use with different colored inks is a great way to stencil or add subtle color.

Love-tag-detail

 As others this week have already said, the photos just don't do the projects justice with how beautiful the sparkle is on these projects. I hope you'll be inspired to give one of the variations of this technique a whirl! I know you'll love it!

Glitter-love-tag

Thanks so much for joining me today in the CLASSroom!

Julia

Supplies:

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Posted at 09:00 PM in Adhesives, Craft-a-Board, Dies, Embellishments, Essentials by Ellen, Glitter, Maya Road, My Favorite Things, Tim Holtz, Valentines, Wedding | | Comments (5)

| | Pin It! |

February 10, 2016

All Inside Love by Kittie Caracciolo

Good Wednesday morning and welcome to the CLASSroom.  Have you had the chance to check out Julie’s wonderful new 2016 winter release?  She has absolutely outdone herself again.  My project today was made using her coordinating All Inside stamp set and All Inside die set. I created the layers and frame using the Impression Obsession Rectangle 6-in-1 Frames, Lawn Fawn Scalloped Rectangle Stackables and We R Memory Keepers Nesting Card Templates. I love how the red hearts pop against the stark white and black background.

KC Essentials by Ellen All Inside right

Attach the black layer and white scalloped layer to the card base with ATG adhesive.

3

Attach the two frame sections together using double stick tape. 

1

Attach thin strips of mounting tape to the back of the frame and attach it to the card base.

2

4

Cut the bear, line the stamp up over top of the the bear, stamp with black versafine and emboss with clear embossing powder. Note: Sharon showed a  different technique for stamping and cutting the bear on her Sunshine Bear project post in the CLASSroom last week.  You can see it here. 

5a

5

6

Cut a black bear, cut the bottom half off right at the elbows to create a pair of pants and attach to the white bear with glossy accents. Make note that Julie designed the bear die so the arms would be free to hold things in his paws.  So cute!!!!!

7

8

Apply a glue dot to the back of a red heart and place it in the bear’s paws

9

Stamp the “you are my” sentiment with black versafine on a tag and emboss with clear embossing powder. Attach the tag in the bear’s paws with a glue dot.

10

Apply a piece of mounting tape to the back of the bear and attach him to the card base.

11

12

Apply glossy accents to the back of a couple more hearts and attach them to the frame and card base.

13

Cut another scalloped piece of cardstock, stamp the “Love” sentiment with black versafine and emboss with clear embossing powder. Apply ATG adhesive to the back of the sentiment layer and attach on the inside of the card.

14

Apply glossy accents to three red hearts (or as many as you like) and attach them around the sentiment to finish the inside of the card.

15

KC Essentials by Ellen All Inside inside card

I hope you have been inspired to make a few cute bears cards of your own.  If you haven’t already you will definitely want to check out the release blog hop.  There are so many wonderful projects for you to see.  Oh….and an opportunity for you to win a prize as well. 

Posted at 12:00 AM in Dies, Essentials by Ellen, Lawn Fawn, Valentines | | Comments (17)

| | Pin It! |

February 03, 2016

Monster Love You by Heather Campbell

Heather Campbell_Ellen Hutson_Avery Elle Monsters
 
Hello everyone and happy February!  Who is ready for some pink fun?  I seriously adore all things Valentine's!  Today, I thought it would be fun to take a set I already have and make it a little love themed.

Heather Campbell_Ellen Hutson_Avery Elle Monsters

First I stamped the monster from Avery Elle Monsters.  I also added a little bow tie to make him handsome.  I also stamped the box and sentiment - but forgot to take a picture of that.  Whoops. 

Heather Campbell_Ellen Hutson_Avery Elle Monsters

I colored in the box. 

Heather Campbell_Ellen Hutson_Avery Elle Monsters

Then I colored in the monster. 

Heather Campbell_Ellen Hutson_Avery Elle Monsters

Next, I die cut them both out.

Heather Campbell_Ellen Hutson_Avery Elle Monsters

To slide him in the box, I had to cut a slit.  I simply used my craft knife and cut along the stamped line. 

Heather Campbell_Ellen Hutson_Avery Elle Monsters

Once I opened the slit, I could see the inside of the paper. 

Heather Campbell_Ellen Hutson_Avery Elle Monsters

Remedy: Memento Black marker.  This is a great way to cover that white. 

Heather Campbell_Ellen Hutson_Avery Elle Monsters

Look how handsome he is popping up out of his box. 

Heather Campbell_Ellen Hutson_Avery Elle Monsters

Next, I wanted to work on the card base.  I used an Avery Elle die cut to create the wonky stitches and then again used a pinked edge border (I love this one because it has both dotted and plain!) to create my own custom panel. 

Photo Jan 30, 9 46 58 PM 2

Ta-da!  It's so fun to stretch dies and see what else you can come up with! 

Heather Campbell_Ellen Hutson_Avery Elle Monsters

To get better colors for my hearts, I simply used Copic markers to alter my card stock die cuts! 

Photo Jan 30, 10 03 32 PM

I adhered everything to my card with Dimensional foam.  I also die cut a bunch of little hearts and popped them in the box as well. 

Photo Jan 30, 10 03 32 PM

Then, I added balloon strings (another die cut) and some white gel pen to make the balloons official. 

Photo Jan 30, 10 03 32 PM

Finally, I decided he needed to be blushing, so I added some pink cheeks. 

 

Photo Jan 30, 10 03 32 PM

To finish it off, I wrapped some twine and tied a cute bow! 

Heather Campbell_Ellen Hutson_Avery Elle Monsters

Heather Campbell_Ellen Hutson_Avery Elle Monsters

So cute and perfect for Valentine's day!  Thank you so much for stopping by and have a great day!
XOXO, Heather

Supplies Small 

Posted at 12:01 AM in Avery Elle, Valentines | | Comments (5)

| | Pin It! |

January 22, 2016

Watercolor Blocks by Julia Stainton

Hi everyone! I'm back from CHA and super inspired and excited to get back to creating and back to the CLASSroom! What I've been missing most as I've been away is my watercolors and it seemed like a great place to start by creating a few watercolor projects to share with you today in the CLASSroom. There's just something wonderful about all that fabulous color!

I've been hoarding some beautiful Cosmo Cricket Just Add Watercolor Canvas Blocks and it's way past time to get them out and get creative with them. One of my resolutions for 2016 is less hoarding and more crafting! So let's get to it!

Watercolor-canvases-500

Here's my finished projects, just so you can see what I'm making. The Cosmo Cricket Just Add Watercolor line is a stunning line of products with watercolor paper. There's something for everyone. Cards. Tags. 12x12 papers. And of course, canvas watercolor blocks that I'm using today.

Just-add-watercolor

They come pre-printed with beautiful embossed and gold foil accents so that you can easily make your own art. All you need to do is just add watercolor. These are a great project for any age as you really can't mess them up. Just add whatever colors you like and it all looks artistic!

Be-you-tiful

In this shot you can see the areas that are gold foiled and clear embossed. The clear embossing repels the pigment so that you'll have a lighter area in these points.

Peerless-watercolors

My favorite watercolors are the Peerless Watercolors. Pgiment infused papers that have beautiful colors and the color picks up on your brush like a dream. I've used the Joanne Sharpe edition here on this project. The colors are bright and beautiful and if you're looking for a place to start, this set is well-priced to try them out!

Watercolor-test

When picking up the color, I always like to try it out on some scrap paper. Pigment can sometimes be deceiving and this allows me to check the hue as well as gauge the intensity of the final color.

Be-you-ti-ful-watercolor

The hardest part of this project is adding in the initial color. Just load up your brush and get started. When using watercolors, make sure you have lots of water on the brush so that the color will flow.

Tissue-blot

I traced the You portion of the sentiment using shades of watercolor. The colors will blend well if you work wet-in-wet which means you don't allow them to dry in between adding them together. Use a tissue or paper towel to blot off the excess pigment and reveal the embossed area.

Water-wet

To create a background, I like to add lots of water to the area first and then add in the color. This makes it spread out and blend well.

Be-you-tiful-top

Once the painted areas were almost dry I added in some flecks of watercolor by loading up my brush and then flicking the area with paint. You can use a heat gun to dry the watercolor and finish it up or allow to dry naturally.

Just-add-watercolor-be-you-

You can do whatever you like with these canvases. Add whatever colors and make it as simple or as complex as you wish. Hang it up and enjoy your art!

Xoxo-canvas

While I was creating, I thought it would be fun to create this little accent for Valentine's Day as well. Once again, it's simple to just add watercolor.

I missed taking a picture but to create the ombre stripes I just brushed color across the top of the surface, then added a little more water to my brush and created another stripe. Add a little more water each time without adding pigment and each stripe will get a little lighter.

Best-craft-mat

It's also easy to blend your own watercolor hues with colors you have on hand. I took a yellow and a pink and mixed them together on the Ken Oliver Best Craft Mat to create a yellowish orange.

Xo-angle

I used this new color to highlight the o areas and give them a little more definition.

Xoxo-watercolored

And that's it! Fun and simple!

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

Julia-signature-wide

Supplies:

 

Posted at 12:32 PM in Cosmo Cricket, Home Decor, Valentines, Watercolor | | Comments (5)

| | Pin It! |

January 18, 2016

Hello, Monday 01.18.2016

Folk heart love WEB1(click on the pics to enbiggan)

Today's card feature's the negative space of a die cut! Perfect way to showcase the washi tapes behind--I just love the gold foiling on the Little B tapes! A wider version of the rose pattern gold foil tape is on its way to the shop and I cannot wait to get my hands on it! *swoon*

Folks heart love WEB2

I've used my tinted Sizzix cutting pads so much that impression marks from the die-backs have been embedded into them, so when I ran the heart shape through with the Brush script Love die, the marks transferred.  But, in the end, I didn't feel it detracted from the project, so I forged ahead. Note to self:  Time to swap the pink pads out. LOL!

LINK:  View today's video in HD on our YouTube Channel HERE, and thanks for giving it a thumbs up!

Anybody been working on their Valentines?  Do you stick with a traditional color scheme or do you try to break outta' the box a bit on these?

Happy Mundane!

1Julie
SUPPLIES:

Posted at 08:00 AM in Cards, Dies, Essentials by Ellen, Ranger Techniques, Tips and Techniques, Valentines, Video, Watercolor | | Comments (15)

| | Pin It! |

January 15, 2016

Happy {Heart} Day by Sharon Harnist

Happy Friday, everyone -- Sharon here in the CLASSroom today!  I've admired this sweet Happy Birthday To You die from Little B for quite some time and finally added it to my stash -- I love interactive/different card openings!

LittleB Designer Dies-Happy Birthday

I wanted to make the die a little more versatile, so I changed it up a bit for Valentine's Day, to create this card
(All bold products are linked below in the supply section):

1-HappyHeartDay-Card1-SH

The Birthday die makes a sweet 2.50" square tri-fold card (the full die cut is shown below in black) but I wanted to extend the height a little, and make a taller card so more of my stamped background would be featured.  In order to accomplish this, first I die cut the words from Bazzill Licorice Twist cardstock:

1-HappyHeartDay-Die1-SH

Next, I cut two pieces of Neenah Solar White 80# cardstock to 4.75" tall X 7.50" long (the length of the die) and notched them at the top (you can barely see my pencil marks on the white cardstock in the photo below), so the die cut words would stick out of the top. The black die cut words will be sandwiched between the two white card panels.

1-HappyHeartDay-Die2-SH

Then I stamped the front white panel with all the different sayings from Julie's Love You So Essentials by Ellen stamp set, in Memento Tuxedo Black ink.  The images were colored with R24 and R83 Copic markers and the arrow stamped separately with Memento Rhubarb Stalk ink.  Next, the card was adhered together with a good, strong Tombow Stamp Runner Dot Adhesive and scored at 2.50" and 5", to create the tri-fold:

1-HappyHeartDay-Stamp-SH

For the heart accent, I used Essentials by Ellen Folk Heart die to cut Bazzill Peppermint cardstock and stamped it with the black arrow. The Birthday die set includes a separate Birthday word die, so it can be cut separately and used as an accent.  I cut it from gold foil cardstock and adhered it over the black Day die cut word.

1-HappyHeartDay-Card2-SH

Here are a few more views of the card, partially open:

1-HappyHeartDay-CardTop-SH

And fully open:
1-HappyHeartDay-CardTop-SH
By sandwiching the black die cut words between the two white panels, the back of the card is left all white and finished off nicely, where you can write a personal message:

1-HappyHeartDay-CardOpenBk-SH

I love stretching (literally in this case!) my dies, to make them more versatile!  Now I can still use this die for a sweet birthday notecard, throughout the rest of the year!

SH-JandaElegant-BlueSlant

- supplies

Posted at 03:43 PM in Copic Markers, Dies, Essentials by Ellen, Valentines | | Comments (6)

| | Pin It! |

January 13, 2016

Love You So by Kittie Caracciolo

Good Wednesday morning and welcome to the CLASSroom.  Valentine’s Day is just around the corner and I wanted to create a clean and simple card using Julie’s wonderful Folk Hearts die set and Love You So stamp set.  I love the shape of the hearts and the contrast of the red and white alternating layers. KC Folk Hearts right

Cut the largest heart using a 5.50” x 4.25” piece of white cardstock.

1

The red heart was cut using a piece of red cardstock approximately 5.25” x 4.00”.  It needed to be small enough so the edges wouldn’t show behind the main white frame layer but remain large enough to create full mat coverage for the large heart opening. I mention this because the first time I cut my red heart layer it was too short and the white heart opening wasn’t  totally covered.  LOL!  2

The smallest white heart was cut, stamped with the sentiment in black versafine and embossed with gold embossing powder. Hint:  I use black pigment ink to stamp  so I can see clearly where the sentiment is going to hit on the cardstock.  I am the worlds worst at getting sentiments stamped crooked when using clear versa.  And it really doesn’t matter using black versa because the gold embossing powder covers the black well.

3

4

5

I wanted the sentiment heart to have a red layer behind it so I hand cut one using my deckle scissors.  The deckle edge is jagged and uneven all the way around and adds an element of interest to all the clean die cut layers. 

6

Attach the sentiment layer to the red using strips of mounting tape.

7

Hand cut metallic gold foil cardstock to create large arrow. I didn’t have a pattern so I just winged it.

8

9

All the parts and pieces are ready to be assembled.

10

Apply strips of mounting tape to the back of the white heart frame and attach to the red heart matting frame.

12

11

Apply ATG adhesive to the back of the double matted frame and attach it to the card base.

13

Apply a glue dot to the end arrow parts, line them to look like one whole arrow being shot through the heart, tuck them in between the layers and attach.

14

Apply mounting tape to the back of the sentiment heart and attach to the card base. Apply a tiny rolled glue dot to the arrow point and fletching to secure them to the white frame.

15

16

After all my pictures were taken I had an afterthought that it would have been so cute to add a tiny red die cut heart over the gold embossed sentiment heart. Oh well….next time!KC Folk Hearts left

I hope you have been inspired to get out your Valentine stamps and dies and make a few special cards for your loved ones.

Card size:  5.50” x 4.25”

Posted at 12:00 AM in Dies, Essentials by Ellen, Valentines | | Comments (9)

| | Pin It! |

January 11, 2016

Hello, Monday 01.11.2016

Eat you up WEB1(click on the pics to enbiggan)

I haven't played with the Love You So stamp set nearly enough since we released it.  It's one of my favorites of all time, because it contains sentiments I used with my kids when they were little and I can't help but use them with my 3 yr. old granddaughter, Lilly!  :)

Lilly loves pink; she loves to give us "big pink hugs"... And, she likes glitter. :) And, at age 3, she recognizes those words above.  Can't wait to send this to her! 

 

Eat you up WEB2

I love this camouflaged die cut technique--you could use any shape die, of course, but I loved how the smallest folk heart die just worked perfectly on this design! *fist pump*

 

LINK:  View the video in HD on our YouTube Channel HERE and give it a thumbs up!

 

Happy Mundane!

1Julie

SUPPLIES: (ETA:  forgot to list the Uniball Gold Gel Pen, used to color the crown)

Posted at 08:00 AM in Cards, Dies, Essentials by Ellen, Tips and Techniques, Valentines, Video | | Comments (15)

| | Pin It! |

January 07, 2016

Die Love by Sharon Harnist

I adore the HUGE variety of dies that Ellen carries in the shop ... I could make cards for days from just dies -- and I did!  :)

1-LoveYouBannerCard-1-SH

This card's main focus, I think, is the wonderful "Love You" Picture Perfect-Valentine stitched word frame from Taylored Expressions. This pretty die is meant to be a scrapbooking photo frame, but does great double-duty as a card layer!  I die cut it from Bazzill Peppermint cardstock and then layered these darling Skinny Mini Valentine Borders, die cut from Bazzill Candy Hearts, Licorice Twist, and Peppermint cardstock on top of the frame:

1-LoveYouBannerCard-2-SH

The Essentials by Ellen Folk Heart was done by first die cutting the rose from the Essentials by Ellen Wild Garden die set, from Bazzill Candy Hearts cardstock, adhering it to another piece of Candy Hearts cardstock, then die cutting the rose with the heart die.  This gives the heart a pretty lacy floral embossed look!  

1-LoveYouBannerCard-Dies-SH

To enhance the rose, I colored it with Clear Wink of Stella Glitter Marker:

1-LoveYouBannerCard-3CU-SH

TIP: When die cutting a very intricate and thin die, such as this rose, from thick cardstock like the Bazzill 100 lb cardstock, use a Metal Adaptor Plate in your die cutting sandwich, to increase pressure and ensure good clean cuts.

1-LoveYouBannerCard-4-SH

To finish this sweet Valentine, I decided to keep the card flat and just adhered the frame to a piece of Neenah 110 lb. Solar White cardstock, die cut from My Favorite Things Blueprints 20 large scalloped rectangle . . . Nothing says "Valentine" quite like scallops, right?  At least in my mind it does!  :)  The pink Folk Heart was popped up on X-Press It Foam Tape.

I hope this project helps you to think about layering several different die cuts, to achieve a totally different look from your dies!

~Sharon

- supplies

Posted at 10:01 PM in Dies, Essentials by Ellen, My Favorite Things, Taylored Expressions, Valentines | | Comments (2)

| | Pin It! |

February 09, 2015

Hello, Monday 02.09.2015

Love_buckle_WEB

(click on the pics to enbiggan)

Lately, I've been been ogling a lot of Kate Spade.  So clean, crisp and classic--makes me swoon!  So, that was the inspiration behind this sweetly simple Valentine card. But, it does have a bit of a twist in that the closure is a tuck and fold style, made possible by the Savvy Stamps Love Typed die!  *fist pump*

 

Love_buckle_WEB_2

 

Some things to note:

  • Card base measures 4.25 x 11"
  • Score at 3.5" and 8 1/8" from the short end to create bottom and top folding flaps; you can make adjustments as needed, but this was a starting point that worked great for me.

Enjoy the video in HD on our YouTube channel and if you'll kindly take a moment to give it a thumbs' up, it is much appreciated!

 

Happy Mundane and don't forget to send some love in the snail mail to your sweeties! :)

1Julie

SUPPLIES:

 

Posted at 11:35 AM in Cards, Cosmo Cricket, Dies, Savvy, Tips and Techniques, Tool Talk, Valentines, Video | | Comments (10) | TrackBack (0)

| | Pin It! |

January 30, 2015

Love You Vintage Valentine Decor by Julia Stainton

 With Valentine's Day in just a couple weeks, I'm busy crafting and decorating for the upcoming holiday. I love creating in a shabby and vintage style and Valentine's is always a great time to design in that manner. Today I'm excited to be back creating and sharing here in the CLASSroom and have a fun decor piece to share with you.

  Altered Linen Heart Valentine Decor by Julia Stainton for the CLASSroom

I'm loving all the pretty ruffles and details and it's now hanging on my kitchen dresser-turned-sideboard. Another creative project that I took on a few years back. This project is easier than it looks. You truly DO NOT need a sewing machine! Keep reading and I'll share how I created it.

Tulle-trim

To start off with I've used a premade stitched linen heart (you can find everything in the supply list at the end of the post). It's already two layers stitched together so it's easy...no stitching. The grey trim comes pre-ruffled so all I did was take a piece of it and adhere to the back of the heart project.

Heart-stamped

Next step is to stamp the front. I've used some pretty Hero Arts stamps and Ranger's Jet Black Archival Ink. Archival inks are my FAVORITE for stamping on fabrics and other porous surfaces. You always get a nice clean impression.

You-chipboard

Onto the chipboard steps: I wanted to cover this you chipboard with glass glitter. I love the look of glass glitter, especially on vintage style projects. It's sooo pretty and nothing else seems to compare. When covering chipboard with glitter I like to color it first with a coordinating color so that if you have spaces in the coverage, it's not as obvious.

You-glossy

Glossy Accents works great for adhering so many things but I especially love it for the glass glitter. Just squeeze it on and then I smear it to totally cover the chipboard surface.

Glass-glitter

It's always good to be generous with glitter when covering anything with it. I like to dump large amounts over the item and allow the glue to dry. Shake off the excess glitter and it's fine to put it back into your jar to use again.

Chipboard-heart

To cover the chipboard hearts I used some new and beautiful papers from the Crate paper Kiss Kiss line. Adhere the papers and trim the excess as close as possible. Then sand or file the edges for a nice finish.

Layered-heart

To start layering the embellishments I used hot glue to fix them to the linen.

Altered Linen Heart Valentine Decor by Julia Stainton for the CLASSroom

When adding in embellishments I start with the largest and then slowly build up the layers until I'm happy with the result.

Cut-hole

To this point, I've left the heart flat but wanted it to be more three-dimensional. To open up the back I carefully cut a slit in the back layer so that it could be stuffed with pillow batting. I admit I didn't have any on hand so I found some soft ribbon that I no longer needed and stuffed the heart with that. If you want, you can sew the seam shut but I simply hot-glued it closed for a quick and no-sewing project.

Altered Linen Heart Valentine Decor by Julia Stainton for the CLASSroom

To finish off the project I used a gorgeous Melissa Frances hanger and clipped it to the top sections of the altered linen heart. It's embellished with a vintage button and a Tim Holtz Mirrored Star.

Altered Linen Heart Valentine Decor by Julia Stainton for the CLASSroom

Here's a close-up of the embellishment details. The wood bingo piece has been inked with Avery Elle Orchid Pigment Ink to add color to it.

Altered Linen Heart Valentine Decor by Julia Stainton for the CLASSroom

Thanks for joining me today in the CLASSroom! I hope this design inspires you to get creative and make something yourself!

-Julia

Supplies:

 

Posted at 09:57 AM in Glitter, Hero Arts, Home Decor, Maya Road, Melissa Frances, Valentines | | Comments (5) | TrackBack (0)

| | Pin It! |

January 28, 2015

Valentine Floral Spray by Kittie Caracciolo

Good Wednesday morning and welcome to the CLASSroom.  What is your favorite kind of Valentine?  I tend to lean towards the elegant, old fashioned Valentine with lots of flourishes, flowers and ribbon.  My project today was made using the Creative Expressions Hollywood die set, Memory Box Elliana Background, Fancy Blossoms, Leafy Sprig, Small Leafy Sprig and Lifestyle Crafts Nesting Card Template.

Hollywood Valentine right

To guarantee a good clean cut when cutting intricate dies I place the metal adapter plate under the bottom cutting plate.   Cut the Hollywood layer, the Elliana background and the thin outer nesting card template frame.

1

2

3

Cut a small amount of the edges off around the Elliana background to make it fit perfectly behind the frame.  Apply 1/8” double stick tape to the back of the frame and attach to the Elliana background.

4

5

Apply another layer of 1/8” double stick tape to the back of the frame and attach it to the card base.

6

Lay a long piece of 1/2” double stick tape down on your craft table, roll it up with your finger to create a thin adhesive roll of tape and attach to the back of the Provence layer.

7

I placed the tape in main focal areas so it would hold the Hollywood die cut away from the background.  Place the Provence layer to the card base.

8

Cut foliage and flower pieces for the floral spray. There are five pieces of leafy sprig, small leafy spring and enough flowers to create five double layered flowers.

9

Lay the flowers face down on the molding pad and push down and roll the flower into a rounded bowl.

10

Lay the flower face up on the pad and push down in the center with the small tipped stylus to create the formed flower.

11

Apply glossy accents in the center of the larger flower and attach the smaller flower inside.  Hold in place for a second to make sure it is secure.

12

Lay the sprigs of foliage on the molding pad and lightly push down on the leaves and branches from both the front and back to create a natural looking branch.  Remember….paper foliage and flowers can be brought to life by forming them and adding dimension.  No flower or leaf is perfectly flat.

13

Apply glossy accents to the top of each large branch and attach the flower.  Hold in place with the pic end of the leaf tool to secure in place.

14

Apply glossy accents to the back of the leaf spring and attach to the Provence base. Use the leaf tool to hold in place to secure.

15

16

Continue to add the sprigs and flowers pieces to finish your floral spray.

17

Cut several thin strips of scrap cardstock to create faux stems to add to the bottm of the spray.  Roll a section of double stick tape around the top to secure them together.

18

Spread the stems apart with your fingers and lightly curl them to create a more natural look.

19

Attach the stems to the bottom of the floral spray. Even though there was double stick tape around the top of the stems, I added a couple dots of glossy accents to make sure it would be secure and hold in place.

20

I tucked the five small leafy sprigs in and around the flowers to fill in and to complete the spray.

21

I applied a multi loop bow right above the stems to complete the arrangement.

22

Tiny snow pearls were added to the center of each flower for the finishing touch. Hint:  I always add a drop of glossy accents in the center of the flowers as extra hold so the pearls don’t pop off. 

Hollywood Valentine center

I love the red background and flowers with the white decorative layers.  This card screams VALENTINE to me.

Hollywood Valentine left

I hope you have been inspired by my Valentine project today to get your flower and foliage dies out to create your own floral spray.  They are pretty on cards for all occasions.  I’ll look forward to seeing you next time.

Card size:  5.50” x 4.25”

Posted at 12:00 AM in Dies, Memory Box, Tips and Techniques, Valentines | | Comments (18) | TrackBack (0)

| | Pin It! |

January 26, 2015

Hello, Monday 01.26.2015

Galaxy_bkgrd_WEB1 

(click on the pics to enbiggan)

Long, long ago... in a galaxy far, far away... *chuckle*

This isn't a technique I would normally attempt, BUT the results are pretty cool, and believe it or not, the mess was relatively minimal--I didn't even wear gloves! *gasp*

A splatter box would have been nice for clean-up, tho, if I'd calmed down and not gotten so excited I froggot! 

Galaxy_bkgrd_WEB3

 

Who'da thunk this background would be so easy to achieve?! Looks more complicated than it really is.  Love that.

Galaxy_bkgrd_WEB2

Besides the die, not much else was needed to finish it off--couldn't resist those little wood veneer stars topped off with White Enamel... POIFECT!!!

You can also enjoy our video in HD on our YouTube Channel--thank you for giving it a thumbs up and for subscribing to our happy little series each week!

Have you started on your lovey-dovey cards yet?

Happy Mundane!

1Julie

SUPPLIES:

Posted at 07:00 AM in Cards, Dies, Ranger Techniques, Savvy, Tips and Techniques, Valentines, Video | | Comments (25) | TrackBack (0)

| | Pin It! |

January 21, 2015

Home is Wherever I am with You by Heather Campbell

Heather Campbell for Ellen Hutson

Hello!  We're just around the corner from Valentine's Day and I thought it would be fun to get creative with my stamps and come up with a masculine Valentine's day card.  Masculine is always tough so I combed through my stash looking for something that would work and found my Avery Elle Home Sweet Home set.  This set is perfect for just about any occasion and I just love that teepee!

IMG_4352

To get started, first I had to stamp everything to create my scene.  I started with the laurel branches from Avery Elle Storybook.  I positioned them using my grids to get perfect position and I kept these on my acrylic block for one of my next steps too!

IMG_4354

Then I added the flowers from Avery Elle More Stories.

IMG_4356

To finish the laurel frame, I simply stamped the laurels again but this time upside down. 

IMG_4357

Now that my frame is complete, I was able to perfectly position the teepee. 

IMG_4361

With the finishing touches of stamping the grass, hearts and a sentiment complete, I can begin coloring!  

IMG_4362

When I coloring with my Copics, I generally use at least 2 colors to get the shading I like.  However, if the images are small, sometimes it works to just use one!  For the laurel branches I used YG05. 

IMG_4364

For the grass and flower leaves, I used G40, YG03, YG05 and YG09.

IMG_4367

For the hearts and flowers, I used R22, R35 and R59.

 IMG_4374

 I colored the teepee in with E50 and E31.

IMG_4375

IMG_4379

Then, for the inside of the teepee I used E31 and E33 and finished it off with E37.

IMG_4385

To finish off the teepee, I added blue greens BG0000, BG000 and BG11.

IMG_4386

Next, I decided I wanted to add a finished edge to the panel so I used the new Avery Elle Dotted Borders to trim down my panel from it's original A2 size. I used a post it to hold it in place. :)

IMG_4389

IMG_4391

I just can't get enough of that pierced finish!

IMG_4393

To mount my card, I thought it would add a woodsy-masculine touch to have a bit of woodgrain in there!  So, I used my Little B Knotty Pine washi tape and adhered it along the bottom and top of my card base!

IMG_4394

Once I adhered my stamped panel, I trimmed the tiniest bit off each side to create a clean edge and cut off the scraps of the washi tape. 

IMG_4418

 I hope you enjoyed a peek into how I stretch my stamps for occasions like this!  Are you making any Valentines?  I'd love to know!

Heather Campbell for Ellen Hutson

Thank you so much for stopping by and sharing part of your day with me!  Have a wonderful day!

- Heather

Supplies Small

 

Posted at 12:01 AM in Avery Elle, Copic Markers, Valentines | | Comments (9) | TrackBack (0)

| | Pin It! |

January 14, 2015

Valentine Tea Party by Kittie Caracciolo

Good Wednesday morning and welcome to the CLASSroom. My project today is a Valentine tea party card made using the Impression Obsession Tea Set paired with the Vase Set, Leaves and Stems, Tiny Flowers, Border Duo 1 and Rectangle 6-in-1  frames.

KC Impression Obsession Tea Set right

The tea set comes in several pieces that need to be assembled.  I also wanted to add delicate eyelet napkins to finish the place setting.  To create the napkins I cut a small piece of the eyelet border and cut two sections for the napkins.

1

The saucers and lid for the tea pot were attached together with rolled up strips of 1/8” double stick tape. I wanted those pieces to be slightly popped up for dimension.

 5 

2

Several stems and tiny flowers were attached together with glossy accents to use to create the vase of flowers.

3

The vase was was cut off at the bottom to shorten to fit in the frame properly.

3 a

Three stems were attached to the back of the vase with glossy accents. Additional stems will be added to the arrangement once it is attached to the card base.

4

Thin strips of mounting tape were applied to the back of the frame and it was attached to the  card base.

5

6

Doubled up pieces of mounting tape were attached to the tea pot and cups so they would stand out higher the frame. A single layer of tape was applied to the vase so it would fit behind the cups.

7  8

The vase, cups and tea pot were attached to the card base and frame.  Once the vase was attached I tucked a few more stems of flowers into the arrangement attaching with glossy accents. KC Impression Obsession Tea Set center

The napkins were attached with glue dots and the spoons were attached with glossy accents for the finishing touches to the scene.

KC Impression Obsession Tea Set left

I love the bright pops of color against the all white background. I hope you have enjoyed this project and I will look forward to seeing you next time.

Posted at 12:00 AM in Dies, Impression Obsession, Valentines | | Comments (24) | TrackBack (0)

| | Pin It! |

February 12, 2014

Clean and Simple Valentine by Kittie Caracciolo

Valentine’s day is just two days away and I needed to create one more quick and easy project.  The clean and simple design is not always easy for me but I have found I am most successful when I use a bright splash of color for the main focal point placed against an all white background.  An all white background does not have to be plain or boring.  Adding  decorative elements like the die cut heart borders and frame opening add dimension and interest but still allow the rose to be the star of the project.KC MFT Mini Rolled Roses classroom 1 left

I laid the cardstock on my magnetic platform and placed the Double Heart Edger and Heart die dies face down. The magnetic platform held the dies securely in place for the cutting process. Have I told you that I Red heart that platform. 

1

2

I applied mounting tape to the back of the frame and attached it to the card base.

5

I cut several leaves using the Leaf Cluster and formed them with my stylus and molding pad. 

3

I placed the Love You sentiment on my acrylic block, applied versa versa, stamped it on the small flag and embossed with gold embossing powder.

4

I attached the Mini Rolled Rose with glossy accents in the center of the frame opening. 

6

I applied glossy accents to the leaves and tucked them in all around the rose.

7

8

I attached the sentiment flag with rolled glue dots and finished with the tiny gold bow.  

9

I love that the rose, foliage and sentiment are framed so beautifully against the all white background.

KC MFT Mini Rolled Roses classroom 1 center

Who would know this sweet romantic card only took a few minutes to make! 

KC MFT Mini Rolled Roses classroom 1 right

Thanks for coming by the CLASSroom today.

Posted at 12:00 AM in Dies, Impression Obsession, My Favorite Things, Tips and Techniques, Valentines | | Comments (21) | TrackBack (0)

| | Pin It! |

February 08, 2014

Love Treats by Sharon Harnist

With Valentine's Day just one week away, I figured I might need to get a few "love treats" ready for my sweethearts and boy did I have F-U-N ... I was definitely bouncing in my seat while creating these!!

2-ValTreats-ALL-SH

These treat covers were all made with this great Sizzix Tim Holtz Movers & Shapers Matchbook Base Die -- both sizes worked well for a variety of candies:

2-ValTreats-Matchbook-Sh

I just recently tried out these fabulous Movers & Shapers dies for the first time and am loving the ability to place any kind of shape I'd like into the centers of the base die shapes, to create windows/openings! For these treat covers, I used Mini Hearts and Mini Love Struck Magnetic Die Sets inserted in the centers of the matchbook covers:

2-ValTreats-LoveStruck-Sh  2-ValTreats-MiniHearts-Sh

I die cut from three cardstock colors (Carnation and Punch Hero Arts Layering Paper and Neenah Desert Storm cardstock) and Authentique's adorable Smitten 6x6 patterned papers:

2-ValTreats-Dies-Sh

Use the Sizzix Premium Crease Pad (above) on heavier weight cardstocks, to get a good impression of the fold/crease lines. After die cutting all the pieces, I had fun finding different candies that would fit into the matchbook covers. Here's a closer look at each one:

2-ValTreats1-Cupid-SH

Left Cupid above - I liked the Desert Storm/kraft colored cardstock for a more masculine look and combined him with a dark chocolate square shaped single-wrapped candy -- I liked the gold/brown/red colors of the candy wrapper peeking thru the Cupid opening creating little red "socks" for Cupid! The sentiment is from Hero Arts ClearDesign Year Round Sentiments, stamped in Memento Rich Cocoa ink. To hold the candies in place in each of these treat holders, I used the Tim Holtz Tiny Attacher stapler.

For the pink girly Cupid below, I inserted the red die cut Cupid in the pink die cut matchbook and then adhered a piece of pretty patterned paper on the inside (being generous with adhesive) -- this will hold the inset die cut in place:

2-ValTreats2-Cupid-SH

The darling "pucker up" sentiment is from Paper Smooches Fruitastic stamp set, stamped in Memento Love Letter ink. And here's what's inside -- lip balm!

2-ValTreats2-PuckerIn-SH

I just wrapped a piece of cardstock around the lip balm and stapled it in place, then stapled it to the inside top of the matchbook. The lip balm slips out of the holder easily. The smaller heart shaped cutout matchbook on the right in the photo above holds tri-colored Valentine M&M's in a Glassine Flat Bags (2.75" x 4.125") folded to the side needed and stapled in place. The "I love you" sentiment is also from the Hero Arts Year Round Sentiments stamp set:

2-ValTreats2-HeartIn-SH

Next are some more masculine treats (below) ... I adore the "Hello handsome" sentiment from the same great Hero Arts Year Round Sentiments stamp set! These two examples below show the different ways I did the closures of the matchbooks -- the Tim Holtz Tiny Attacher (left) can either staple thru the flap top to keep bulkier candies in place, or leave the flap open while stapling the bottom piece in place, then insert the top flap just inside the bottom "lip". For the right example, I punched holes thru both flaps and then tied a piece of twine through to keep it closed:

2-ValTreats3-Hearts-SH

Inside the Hello handsome matchbook is a Ghirardelli chocolate square -- I sliced through the top of the matchbook and let some of the striped packaging poke through, for some added decoration!  Here's what's inside the right "hugs & kisses" (Avery Elle Simply Said: Love) cover -- a slim pack of gum:

2-ValTreats3-BigRed-SH

I loved the flame showing through the heart opening!

Lastly, another sweet Cupid cutout (left below) contains another glassine bag filled with peppermint sticks (I love that the colors show through!). The pretty "Happy Valentine's Day" sentiment is from another great Hero Arts set, Celebrate Everyday, stamped in Memento Tuxedo Black.  The right heart cover holds a lollipop; the sentiment is another one from the Paper Smooches Fruitastic stamp set, white heat embossed:

2-ValTreats4-Cupid-SH

Inside Cupid:

2-ValTreats4-CupidIn-SH

Inside the lollipop cover:

2-ValTreats4-LolliIn-SH

Just punch a hole through the bottom flap and insert the lollipop stick. One small staple at the top holds it in place. Tuck the top cover into the bottom stapled flap.

I look forward to using this same concept for other holidays and maybe even for birthday party treats, etc!  Happy Valentine's Day!  ~ Sharon

- supplies

Posted at 05:10 PM in Avery Elle, Dies, Hero Arts, Paper Smooches, Sizzix, Valentines | | Comments (10) | TrackBack (0)

| | Pin It! |

February 05, 2014

Love ya by Heather Campbell

Hello!  With Valentine's Day just over a week away, are you getting as excited for it as I am? Sending handmade cards in the mail to family and friends is so fun for me.  I'm trying to do a better job of that and Valentine's Day is the perfect excuse to surprise a few friends!

Love ya by Heather Campbell for Ellen Hutson LLC

This little cupid from Paper Smooches Lovestruck is simply adorable and I love that it's not completely Valentine's themed, the arrows are so trendy and would work year round. 

IMG_6605

First, I stamped my cupid in Memento ink and colored him with my COPIC markers. I'm not the best COPIC color-er so I love that the thick lines on Paper Smooches stamps are a little forgiving and allow my to color with a bit more whimsy. 

IMG_6606

I die cut my cupid out with the coordinating die (using my favorite trick of adhering the die to the paper with a bit of washi tape!) and added glitter to the wings with my Wink of Stella glitter marker.

IMG_6683

With my card base cut and scored, (I used Memory Box Water - it's the perfect shade of sky/water!), I stamped a background pattern in Soft Pool ink to resemble the sky.  I used the Hero Arts Envelope Design Block - it's fantastic and so versatile. 

IMG_6686

With my card base finished, I started on the clouds. I used the Mama Elephant Landscape Trio die and die cut 'clouds' from the Essentials by Ellen white linen cardstock - the texture is perfect for clouds!  

IMG_6689

To know how big I wanted my clouds, I cut them from a 4-1/4" by 5-1/2" pice of cardstock - which gave me the perfect end result.

IMG_6608

I die cut the word 'love' and ran it through my Xyron sticker maker.  This is the perfect way to add adhesive to the back of fine die cuts.  To make sure the adhesive doesn't string, I ran my embossing stylus tool around the periphery of the sentiment. (The one I have is ancient so I linked up a current one below!)

IMG_6692

I adhered the heart and die cut love then stamped another sentiment right over the top.  

IMG_6694

To give him some dimension, I popped my cupid up onto my card with dimensional adhesive. 

IMG_6696

I place him onto the card so his arrow was pointing at the heart and love die cuts. 

IMG_6697

In the same color cardstock at the die cut love, I die cut a scalloped border and trimmed it down. 

IMG_6709

I adhered it to the bottom of the card, it's an unexpected touch of whimsy. 

IMG_6705

Here you can see how adding just a touch of the lightest blue COPIC to the cupid wings and the glitter it makes them appear almost translucent. 

Love ya by Heather Campbell for Ellen Hutson LLC

Thank you so much for stopping by and sharing a part of your day with me!  I hope you have a wonderful day and get some time to craft too! 
- Heather

Supplies Small

 

Posted at 12:01 AM in Copic Markers, Dies, Essentials by Ellen, Hero Arts, Mama Elephant, Memory Box, Paper Smooches, Valentines | | Comments (7) | TrackBack (0)

| | Pin It! |

January 27, 2014

Hello, Monday 01.27.2014

True_north_WEB_1

True_north_WEB_2

(click on the pics to enbiggan)

I know, I know... it may not seem "lovey dovey", but I'm always jonesin' for a more masculine Valentine idea for the Mister and this nautical themed one allows me to be a little bit sappy without goin' overboard!  Pun intended.  ;)

Today's video features a demo on the Marker Spritzer Tool, and I also share a bit about Card Shoppe card stock, both of which are coming soon to Ellen Hutson, LLC! WOOT!

Enjoy the video here or over on YouTube and thank you for subscribing to our channel! Select 720p for best viewing quality!

 

Happy Mundane!

1Julie

••••••••••••••••••

SUPPLIES:

Posted at 08:00 AM in Cards, Dies, Memory Box, Ranger Techniques, Savvy, Tips and Techniques, Tool Talk, Valentines, Video | | Comments (18) | TrackBack (0)

| | Pin It! |

January 25, 2014

Cupid Tag by Sharon Harnist

Next to Christmas, Valentine's Day is my favorite papercrafting holiday! I love everything associated with this romantic day -- doilies, lace, glitter, hearts, Cupid -- so I tried combining as many of those things as I could on this Valentine tag!

1-LoveCupidTag-SH

I also wanted to create a faux-embossed look for the background of the tag -- it's really simple. Here are the easy steps:

1. Die cut all the pieces you will need, out of Coredinations Tim Holtz Kraft-Core Nostalgic cardstock. I only had the 6x6 pad, so my tag is about 1/4-inch shorter than the die (which is fine, since I added the Vintage Lace paper trim to the bottom), but you could use the 12x12 version cardstock pad. I just aligned the top of my cardstock at the top of the tag die, so only the bottom edge would be short. All the colors you need are in the pad: wine, pink and black. The reverse side of all this cardstock is the kraft color. Notice right now, Cupid is pink and facing the other direction. Also, I originally cut the "Love" word out of pink cardstock but it ended up blending into the background too much, so I switched it to black (click on any photo for a larger view):

1-LoveCupidTag-1-SH

The Mini Love Struck Cupid is a Movers & Shapers Magnetic Die so you will either need the Movers & Shapers Base Tray to use this die in your Big Shot machine, or you can use a Movers & Shapers Base Die like I did -- I just placed Cupid in the Tag & Bookplates die I used to cut my tag shape.

2. Turn cupid over to his kraft back side and cover him with Glossy Accents, then sprinkle on Tim Holtz Antique Linen Distress Glitter -- I love how well this glitter matches the kraft cardstock! 

1-LoveCupidTag-2-SH

Tip: Use temporary adhesive to hold Cupid down to your work surface, as he will tend to start curling with the thick layer of Glossy Accents! Set him aside to dry.

3. I wanted to emboss the tag but didn't have a heart embossing folder, so I created a faux-embossed look myself! I just die cut a bunch of hearts (My Favorite Things' Staggered Heart Border makes it quick and easy by cutting a bunch of hearts all at once!) and adhered them to the tag, using X-Press It Glue Marker:

1-LoveCupidTag-3-SH

I like that this marker has a little broader bullet tip than a fine-tipped pen adhesive -- it covers the die cut quicker but is not too large for even the smallest pieces.

4. You could leave the background like this, if you'd like, but after the hearts were thoroughly dry, I lightly sanded the hearts to reveal the kraft core. I like the distressed look!

1-LoveCupidTag-4-SH

5. To adhere thin die cuts like this pretty Avery ELLE-ments Simply Said: Love die word on a textured background surface, I like to use rolled up Mini Glue Dots:

1-LoveCupidTag-5-SH

6.  Die cut the Tim Holtz Sizzlits Deco Strip Vintage Lace from black kraft core cardstock and adhere to bottom of tag with the Glue Marker.

7. Adhere Cupid to the tag using Copic Foam Tape -- thin strips of the tape can be cut to fit the smallest of areas:

1-LoveCupidTag-6-SH

8. Stamp the Avery Elle Simply Said: Love words "you" and "xo" with Versafine Black Onyx ink on the pink die cut Mini Love Struck heart. Adhere pink heart with Mini Glue Dots to a black heart, offsetting it for a shadow effect.

9. Tie May Arts 1-1/4" Black Silk Ribbon through the tag hole with Black Baker's Twine.

1-LoveCupidTagCU-SH

I hope you'll try some of these tips in your Valentine project making . . . Thanks for stopping by today! ~ Sharon

- supplies

Posted at 09:50 AM in Avery Elle, Dies, My Favorite Things, Sizzix, Tim Holtz, Valentines | | Comments (7) | TrackBack (0)

| | Pin It! |

January 22, 2014

Valentine Bookmarks by Heather Campbell

I love making Valentines for my kids to give away at school but when I put so much effort into them, I like to make sure they are functional so they will stick around for awhile instead of head to the trash.  When I saw the new Paper Smooches bookmark die, I thought it would be the perfect canvas for making Valentines!  

Valentine Bookmarks by Heather Campbell for Ellen Hutson LLC

I love creating a scene and I thought some little critters on a grassy hill would be perfect for a bunch of kindergarteners. 

IMG_6711

First I die cut my bookmark from the prettiest shade of light blue cardstock.  I used Memory Box water. It's gorgeous for the sky! 

IMG_6716

To create my grass, I used a subtle patterned paper and die cut it first with Mama Elephant's landscape trio die.  

IMG_6718

To match it to my bookmark, I then die cut it again, just like this! 

IMG_6721

Matches perfectly!  

IMG_6723

Then, I die cut the cloud/shrubs from the Lawn Fawn Lawn Cuts Into the Woods dies.  By cutting them from white cardstock, they make the cutest little clouds!

IMG_6729

I stamped the deer on white and eggshell cardstock. 

IMG_6733

I did the same thing with the fox, but onto a rust color cardstock.  

IMG_6735

With each critter, I used the coordinating die cut and cut out the white layer.  Then, I fussy cut the deer and fox out from colored cardstock and adhered it to the white die cut layer. I love how the white border around each of the critters!

IMG_6737

I stamped the speech bubble sentiment in Hero Arts Punch and used the coordinating die cut to cut it out.  I also cut out some little hearts from a light pink cardstock.

IMG_6743

With everything cut out, I started from the bottom of my bookmark and worked my way to the top adhering everything. 

IMG_6749

To give it a bit of sparkle, I added glitter to the heart with my Wink of Stella glitter marker. 

IMG_6751

With my bookmarks done, I threaded some yellow twine through the bookmark. 

IMG_6752

I could have left the ends unfinished but I thought it would be cute to create some two tone hearts at the end of each string.  To do this, I simply took two colors of cardstock and adhered double sided tape to one of the colors, leaving the backing on one side so I could still die cut the cardstock into a heart shape. 

IMG_6753

Be sure to die cut the shape where you have the double sided tape underneath! 

IMG_6757

With my hearts cut out, I placed the heart sticky side up and took off the protective layer.  Then, I stick the one end the string to the heart and then placed the other heart on top.  Easy as that!

IMG_6758

All set and ready to go! Simply write a note on the back and you're done! 

IMG_6764

Or stamp it! 

Valentine Bookmarks by Heather Campbell for Ellen Hutson LLC

Thank you so much for stopping by and have a great day! 
-Heather

Supplies Small

Posted at 12:01 AM in Lawn Fawn, Memory Box, Paper Smooches, Valentines | | Comments (17) | TrackBack (0)

| | Pin It! |

January 17, 2014

Sweet Love Creative Combo by Julia Stainton

With exactly four weeks left until Valentine's Day, it's time to start thinking about how you'll celebrate those you love this year. As expectations can be high for this holiday, I prefer to turn it into a holiday to include those we love...our family and friends. We can all use a little love so why keep the celebration just for hubby and I?

Love-projects-julia-stainto

It's fun to create little treat packages any time of the year and Valentine's Day is no exception. It certainly is a sweet holiday.

Today I have a sweet little treat basket and card combo that's perfect for the big day, no matter who you are giving it to.

Treat-box-base

I've started off my project using a Melissa Frances treat cup. I missed linking it below but I've used the Rectangle Treat Cup and there are also two lovely varieties...the Scalloped Oval and the Scalloped Square.

To start off my project I've adhered patterned paper to the largest chipboard piece in the kit. I love the look of patterned paper on chipboard and have found the easiest solution for lovely edges is the Precision File Tool Kit. Scallops and fancy edges can be tricky so trim them as much as possible with fine tipped scissors as in the above photo.

Filed-edges

Then proceed to sanding and filing the edges with the tool set.

This piece is the base of the teat cup and the paper goes on the top surface, as the way this cup is designed, the top of the base does show.

Adirondack-paint-dabber

You'll also see the inside of the chipboard treat cup sides so you'll want to finish them as well. I've used some acrylic paint from an Adirondack Paint Dabber to quickly cover the chipboard in a pretty Shell Pink.

Treat-basket-pieces

Next step is to cover the outsides of the treat cup sides with more patterned paper. I've used the Authentique Smitten 6x6 paper bundle for this project. The prints are soooo dreamy and I adore how the papers are two-sided.

Box-assembly-1

To put the treat cup together, I found that hot glue worked the best as it sets up quickly. This being the case...make sure you DO work quickly or it will dry before you put it together.

Place one long rectangle, paint side up, on your worksurface. Adhere the two smalled end chipboard pieces to the rectangle. Make sure you line up the straight edges that will adhere to the base so there are no gaps.

Box-assembly-2

Once your rectangle is completely adhered, adhere to the base piece. Then adhere the handle inside the box.


Smitten-sticker-sheets

One thing that surprised me about this paper pad is the last two pages of it are stickers! Love them!

Treat-box

I used a few of the stickers to add some interest to the kraft mini tag tied onto the treat cup.

My favorite chipboard set lately is the Shot Through the Heart set by Maya Road. It made the perfect accent for each side of the treat cup and I've finished it off with a vintage button.

Card-layout

Next up is the card. Once again I've used papers from the same kit along with a card base made from Desert Storm cardstock. This card is 4.25"x5.5" in size. I love the look of embellishments going off a layer but this can cause difficulties with placing it in an envelope. By trimming 3/4" from the right side of the card front, you get a peek at the inside of the card and can have embellishments overhanging without difficulty. First the patterned paper was adhered and then the lace trim with Be Creative Tape.

Love-card-julia-stainton

My final card design uses the same chipboard set again for continuity. Some of the chipboard is covered with patterned paper, other with Shell Pink Adirondack Paint and some with paint coated with Glossy Accents and glitter. It may be a little difficult to see the overhang in the above photo...

 

Love-card-flat

...but laying flat you can get a better idea of the simple construction.

Love-basket-combo

Finally, here's a look at the project details. Click on any of the images to enlarge them for a better look at the projects.

Thanks for stopping by the CLASSroom! Have a fabulous weekend!

 

Supplies:

Posted at 12:11 PM in Cards, Gift Packaging, Glitter, Maya Road, Melissa Frances, Valentines | | Comments (2) | TrackBack (0)

| | Pin It! |

January 08, 2014

Love Quote Penguins by Heather Campbell

Hi everyone!  Hopefully you're all keeping warm this January!  I still can't believe it's January but that also means that February and Valentine's Day is just around the corner!  Yay!  I love pink and red and hearts and cute stuff so Valentine's Day is a holiday that just makes me giddy!

Heather Campbell for Ellen Hutson LLC
When I saw the new Mama Elephant Love Quotes stamp set, I squealed with delight instantly had a million ideas.  With the addition of a few little heart accents, I thought they'd be perfect for Valentines but they're not specifically Valentine's day, which is great since they'll work year round!

IMG_6507Because they're adorable, I had to start with the penguins.  I stamped and colored them with my Copics. Along the white areas of the penguin, I always like to add a tiny bit of light blue along the stamped line to make the white appear extra white inside the penguin!

IMG_6508 I used the coordinating dies to die cut my penguin.  To keep the die perfectly in place I secured the die with some washi tape!  I love how this enables me to get the perfect border around my image.

IMG_6513Next I stamped in Versamark and heat embossed the speech bubble in white onto cardstock.  I love how the crisp, white sentiment pops off the pink cardstock. Once I had it stamped, I die cut it exactly the same way as I did the penguin (even using the washi tape trick!).

IMG_6501To create some snowy hills for my penguins to rest on, I used the Mama Elephant Landscape Trio dies. I cut them both and then layered them on top of each other.  What's great about these curves is that you can get any angle you want for you hills - I love that!

IMG_6504Since the images are rather small, I decided to use a patterned paper for the sky.

IMG_6517After placing the snowy hills onto the patterned paper, I decided it needed a pop of color.  So, I wrapped some twine along the bottom of my snow scene.  To keep the twine in place, I simply punched little notches using a small hole punch. 

IMG_6520To a kraft card base, I adhered trimmed strips of yellow polka dot patterned paper and then the ombre striped blue to create the sky from the same 6x6 pad. To account for the bulk from the twine, I secured the snowy hills to the card with dimensional foam adhesive.

IMG_6522With everything in place for the card, I added the speech bubble and penguin, using dimensional foam adhesive as well.

IMG_6523To give it a pop more of color, I added a few die cut hearts.  To tie in the pink in the hearts, I ended up trimming a piece of pink cardstock to cover up the yellow stripe at the bottom.

Heather Campbell for Ellen Hutson LLCAfter finishing my one card, I giggled because I my lovey card turned out rather feminine so I thought it would be fun to show how I could use the same stamps and dies to create a more masculine card. 

Heather Campbell for Ellen Hutson, Mama Elephant
To make it a little more masculine, I used the Essentials by Ellen Woodgrain Embossed tan cardstock this time to create my card base. I love how this gives such a different feel to the card.

IMG_6544
This time I used both of the penguins.  I colored them with my Copics and used the coordinating die to cut them out.

IMG_6549Instead of using the curvy hills, I used the scalloped landscape to create a very fun snowy scene for my two penguins to rest on.  I then ran a piece of washi tape along the bottom.

IMG_6550I added all of the elements in the same way as the first card, but instead of twine, I used a die cut row of hearts. 

Heather Campbell for Ellen Hutson, Mama ElephantSame basic supplies and techniques but a totally different end result and feel.

Thank you so much for stopping by the CLASSroom today and sharing part of your day with me!  I hope you have enjoyed today's post, feel inspired and enjoyed seeing two different projects using the same stamps and dies!

Supplies Small

Posted at 12:00 AM in Cards, Copic Markers, Essentials by Ellen, Lawn Fawn, Mama Elephant, Memory Box, Paper Smooches, Valentines | | Comments (7) | TrackBack (0)

| | Pin It! |

February 09, 2013

Love is in the Air by Sharon Harnist

Since Valentine's Day is next week and I needed another Valentine card, I thought I would dedicate today's project to a few of my most loved papercrafting supplies and tools!  Here they are, in no particular favorite order (I tried to limit it to 10 but failed!):

 1. Hero Arts Stamps: Year Round Sentiments ClearDesign
 2. Washi Tape: Lifestyle Crafts Shape 'N Tape (Gray)
 3. Dies: MFT Die-namics Fishtail Flags & Sizzix Framelits Hearts 
 4. Copic Markers: R85 
 5. Memento Inks: Gray Flannel  
 6. Doilies: Sizzix Tim Holtz On The Edge Distressed Doily Die
 7. Neenah Natural White Cardstock: for soft ivory card base
 8. Pink hues of cardstock: Memory Box Bubblegum and Raspberry, 
 9. Buttons 
10. Copic Foam Tape - 1/4"
11. Corner Chomper 
12. Glue Dots: Craft and Mini 
13. Sewing 

And here's the card I came up with (click on any photo for a larger view):

2-HugsKisses-SH

Another favorite of mine -- horizontal cards. Do you have an orientation preference for cards?  Mine has always been horizontal! I started with my favorite ivory cardstock (Neenah Natural White) for a base, rounded the bottom corners with the Corner Chomper, then die cut the doily out of the same. This is an edger die (meaning only half of a doily), so I die cut two of them, which gives the oval shape that fits perfectly on a card front!

Next, I die cut Gray Shape 'N Tape with MFT Fishtail Flags and custom colored the tape to match the rest of my card with one of my favorite Copic marker colors, R85:

2-HugsKisses-Washi-SH

The tape covers the seam of the doily halves. Next, I die cut two colors of my favorite pink and raspberry Memory Box cardstock four times with the heart die and machine stitched them down the center. Then I folded the sides of the heart up and separated the layers with 1/4-inch Copic Foam Tape, to give the heart dimension. The heart is secured to the card with Craft Glue Dots:

2-HugsKissesCU-SH

My newest favorite Memento dye ink pad color, Gray Flannel, was used to stamp this darling Hero Arts XOXO sentiment. I used ivory embroidery floss to string and tie the buttons together, then secured them to the card with Mini Glue Dots.

2-HugsKissesCU2-SH

I hope you have some fun this weekend with some of your favorite papercrafting products, too . . . Happy Valentine's Day!

~ Sharon

{Supplies}

 

Posted at 02:03 PM in Adhesives, Copic Markers, Dies, Hero Arts, Ink Pads, Lifestyle Crafts, Memory Box, My Favorite Things, Sizzix, Tim Holtz, Valentines | | Comments (6) | TrackBack (0)

| | Pin It! |

February 01, 2013

Paper Piecing Backgrounds by Julia Stainton

Paper piecing. It's one of those timeless techniques that is fun to do with line art images. But did you know that you can paper piece background stamps?

There are so many great collage style background stamps on the market these days. Hero Arts makes a lot of beautiful ones and they are perfect for stamping simply. With color blocking being so in style these days, it's also fun to paper piece them for a unique look.

I-heart-you-card

Today my card design is just in time for Valentine's Day and uses a paper pieced background technique. Stay with me. I'll show you how easy it is to do.

Paper-pieced-background-ste

I like to take three coordinating colors of cardstock to create my collage. I find that a white, a cream and a kraft cardstock work really well for a subtle effect. Stamp the same background image onto each of the cardstock pieces in the same ink. Here I've used Sepia Archival Ink.

Paper-pieced-bg-step-2

Cut our your images and decide which of the colors will be your base. I chose Kraft for the base and then cut up the image in both the white and cream stamped images into the areas that were naturally broken up in the original design. When you do this, try and plan ahead so that you vary and balance the cardstock colors. Sponge the edges with some distress ink and adhere your layers over the kraft stamped image.

Paper-pieced-bg-step-3

Add more detail as you go along. I've also paper pieced a heart image from another stamp set as it seemed to go along with the design and style perfectly.

I-heart-you-card-layout

Once your background is finished, you can adhere it to a cardstock base. I then planned out how I wanted my design to be laid out. Move the elements around your design until you get the placement as you want it.

By using a the word heart on the key embellishment, I could incorporate it right into my sentiment for a fun detail.

Copic-colored-text

I liked the Memo Printed Letters but found they faded into the background too much. They needed to stand out more so I turned to my Copic Markers to alter them by simply coloring them before adding them to the design.

I-heart-you-detail

Lastly I colored in the wood on the Wood Bingo Motif piece to coordinate the design.

I hope you have fun trying out this twist on an old stamping technique! Thanks for joining me in the CLASSroom!

Supplies:

Posted at 07:34 PM in Backgrounds, Cards, Copic Markers, Hero Arts, Valentines | | Comments (13) | TrackBack (0)

| | Pin It! |

January 12, 2013

Chalkboard Technique by Sharon Harnist

Hello All -- and Happy New Year to you, since this is my first CLASSroom project for 2013! Today I wanted to share with you the fun chalkboard technique I've been playing with lately:

1-ChalkboardAngel-SH

When I started this project, I wished I had a larger die to use (that would fill an A2 card front) and remembered another fun technique I wanted to share today, how to expand the size of your dies!  So let's get started . . .

1. Start by cutting a piece of black cardstock to the width of the die you want to use but longer than you want the finished size, to give you a little wiggle room.

1-ChalkboardDie1-SH

2. With the cutting edge of the die facing down (I'm using Fancy Labels Sizzix Framelits Die), slip one end of the cardstock into the center of your die (feeding it from the top of the die), down under the cutting edge and position it straight. The other end of your cardstock will be on top of your die and won't be cut. (I'm just showing the next smaller size of this die set in the photo above, so you can see the shape of it). Run through your die cutting machine with normal sandwich.

1-ChalkboardDie2-SH

3. Slide the die down to the other end of your cardstock (the right end in the photo above), to the length you want your final die cut, and run through your die cutting machine again. I lengthened my die cut by a little over an inch!

4. Stamp your images with Versamark ink and emboss with white embossing powder. I used My Favorite Things' Pure Innocence Angel stamp set:

1-ChalkboardStamp1-SH

TIP: Lay your stamps face down on your die cut, so you can position the images before stamping. Then place your acrylic block on top of the stamps to "pick them up", ink them, then stamp all at once, for perfect placement!

1-ChalkboardStamp2-SH

5. Add more details and continue building your scene with other stamps, using Hero Arts Snow Chalk Ink pad. I used some swirly elements from Hero Arts ClearDesign set, Cheer Up. The white embossed images are crisper and whiter, while the images stamped with white ink are softer and a little duller, adding variety to your project.

6. You can also add some hand-drawn details with a white pencil. I added a rectangle around the sentiment and some extra lines on the sides of my swirls.

1-ChalkboardStamp3-SH

7. When you are finished with your scene, go back and stamp the first white embossed images with the white ink, shifting the stamps slightly so they create a shadow effect. This helps make your images truly look "chalky" (photo above)!

8. To finish, add some "chalk smudges" with your finger -- tap it onto your white ink pad and smudge here and there, for a realistic effect. I  created a "cloud" for my angel to stand on and went around all the edges of my chalkboard, too:

1-ChalkboardAngelCU-SH

I finished my card by mounting my black chalkboard piece with Copic Foam Tape to a card base of Hero Arts Mixed Layer Papers-Blush. Flower accent was cut with Tim's Tattered Florals Bigz die from red WoolFelt, sewn with a Hero Arts Blush Mixed Button. I thought this color combo would work well for Valentine for one of my daughters!

I hope you have fun with these two techniques ... thanks for stopping by the CLASSroom today!  ~ Sharon

{Supplies}

Posted at 12:40 PM in Hero Arts, Ink Pads, My Favorite Things, Sizzix, Tim Holtz, Valentines | | Comments (11) | TrackBack (0)

| | Pin It! |

January 07, 2013

Hello, Monday 01.07.2013

3DMailboxWEB
(click on the pic to en-biggan)

I am an absolute sucker for things postal related--it was love at first sight with this 3D Mailbox Die!

Had to use the Galvanized card stock because I think it makes it look just like the real deal in miniature!  EEP!!! Can't take it!!! 

Along with some chocolates, I also made a sweet and quick little note to tuck inside, complete with Washi tape using the new Shape & Tape!  It's just like Washi Tape only in sheet format! You can die cut it, cut it with your scissors, punch it, trim it with your paper trimmer--they even have a "Tape It" set of dies designed especially for working with the Shape & Tape! It comes in a variety of colors and patterns but you can also custom tint it, like I show in today's video! WOOT!!!

I have a few little tips in the video for assembling the mailbox, once you've die cut all the pieces--nothing jaw-dropping, but just "nice to know", if ya' know what I mean. *grin*

Enjoy the video here, or in HD on YouTube! And, don't forget to subscribe to our channel!

Thanks for joining me today and I sure hope your Mundane is a happy one! *wink*

1Julie

••••••••••••••••••

SUPPLIES & MATERIALS FEATURED:

 

Posted at 07:00 AM in Basic Grey, Cards, Dies, Gift Ideas, Lifestyle Crafts, Sizzix, Technique Tuesday, Tool Talk, Valentines, Video | | Comments (14) | TrackBack (0)

| | Pin It! |

December 31, 2012

Hello Monday 12.31.2012

Watercolorheart1web
(click on the pic to enbiggan)

Some beautiful watercolor images recently inspired me to pull out my watercolor tools/supplies and mess around in the studio. Mind you, I don't watercolor the traditional way... This is the Julie-Ebersole-slop-the-paint-around-and-leave-some-white-space-here-and-there technique. How's that for a mouthful?! *chuckle*

You can use watercolor paper for this, but I have a fondness for this paper HERE because it actually has a smooth (but toothy) surface and you get nicely crisp and even impressions when you stamp on it. SWEET!!!  It also accepts colored pencils and other dry coloring mediums beautifully, because of that toothy, but not lumpy/bumpy surface! It's also a nice 100# weight--so *plush*!!!

Watercolorheart2web
Also lovin' the Stickles Dry Glitters--this stuff has an incredibly fabulous sparkle!!! *monkey clapping*

Enjoy the video here or in HD on YouTube!

Thanks for joining me today!

••••••••••••••••••••••••••

SUPPLIES & MATERIALS:

Posted at 10:19 AM in Cards, Dies, Lifestyle Crafts, Ranger Techniques, Studio Calico, Technique Tuesday, Tips and Techniques, Valentines, Video | | Comments (25) | TrackBack (0)

| | Pin It! |

February 11, 2012

Memory Box Valentine by Sharon Harnist

Since Valentine's Day is right around the corner, I thought I'd better get busy making some cards for the holiday of love!  Here's a sweet one, using some of my favorite new products!

2-LtrPressCard-SideSH

Sorry for the kind of strange lighting in the photo above, but by turning down some of my studio lights and using only one from the side, I was able to better capture the gorgeous white embossed card base!  When Ellen first introduced her new Essentials by Ellen Letterpress 110 lb White Cardstock, I couldn't wait to try it!  Just look how crisp this pretty Lifestyle Crafts Floral Embossing Folder turned out:

2-LtrPressEmboss-SH

If you click on the photo above for a larger view, you should be able to see the pretty original cotton texture on the right side of the cardstock and then what happens when it is embossed on the left side of the photo -- The cotton fibers in the paper are compressed and the texture becomes a little smoother.  I hope this comes over in the photo, because it is SOOOO gorgeous in real life!

This was the first time I had used some of Memory Box's fabulously delicate cut-out dies and boy, was I impressed!  They cut so cleanly and just look at those beautiful delicate scrolls (and see -- the embossed background isn't as noticeable in my full studio lighting, unfortunately)!

2-LtrPressCard-CUSH

I used the La Rue Heart die, cut from a Memory Box Currant Notecard; and Pepita Border die, cut from Memory Box Meadow Cardstock.  To attach these intriquet die cuts, I used Mini Glue Dots where I could, and then Zig's 2-Way Squeeze & Roll Glue Pen on the tiny cut outs:

2-LtrPressMBDies-SH

Then I wanted an additional "light and airy" embellishment to complete my card, so I started playing around with some of Ellen's Assorted Doilies and came up with this doily flower.  Here's how to make it:

1 - Fold a 4-inch doily almost (just a little less) in half, right side over to the left:

2-LPDoilyFlower1-SH

2 - Next, fold the doily in half again, up from the bottom:

2-LPDoilyFlower2-SH

3 - Then (I forgot to photograph this) -- using Tim Holtz's Tiny Attacher, staple down inside the folds, over on the lower right side (by grasping the inside folds of the doily with your left hand):

2-LPDoilyFlower3-SH

3 - Then fold up the pointed underside of the doil