*** GIVEAWAY POST FOR 500 OR MORE FOLLOWERS IS DATED SEPTEMBER 1ST, 2011***

Please leave your comment under the GIVEAWAY post for consideration in the drawing. Once I reach 500 followers I will select a winner! Thank you kindly.

Tuesday, December 29, 2009

CRAFTING TIP OF THE WEEK (#18) RECYCLING IDEA FOR KIDS CLOTHES

Hello everyone!
This week's tip is making good use of fabric pieces from kids or family clothing that may be stained or too worn out to use any longer.
While you may be inclined to use it as a dusting cloth or shoe shine rag give that a second thought.
Use your kids outgrown clothing in small amounts on layouts or shadow boxes. You could include a picture of your kid in the outfit and journal about it.
You could also use pieces of fabric cut into strips as ribbon for a layout or simply just adhere some of it as an embellishment on your layout.The fabric can also be used to cover chipboard or book covers.
There is a lot of versality in fabric and you don't necessarily have to run out to a store to get some.
Make good use of old clothes that you are thinking of donating to charity. You won't need too many pieces of clothing to get a lot of fabric swatches. Cut them in squares or use your punches (they will work on thin fabric).
It is often difficult to part with kids clothes but this way you get to keep a piece of them, journal about it, tell the story of that piece or just incorporate it into a craft project.
Keep the memories alive!

Wednesday, December 23, 2009

ONE MORE VIDEO SHARE

This one is easy & you can probably do it quickly for that hand-crafted hostess gift or when you need a gift for someone you may have forgotten.

Tuesday, December 22, 2009

A YOU TUBE VIDEO BY LEAH FUNG & FRIENDS ON HOW TO MAKE BOWS & MORE

Just in time for your Christmas wrapping...
Enjoy!

CRAFTING TIP OF THE WEEK (#17) GET YOUR FLOW ON...

Hi everyone!
Today's tip has to do with how to keep the flow of your pens, markers, sharpies, copics & other ink filled writing & coloring pens.
This one is simple...keep them stored horizontally.
By doing so, you keep the ink evenly dispersed within the housing unit & it won't clump up at the point.
To help you achieve this you can purchase a cutlery tray or lay them flat in a photo box or any other storage system that allows for the pens to be in a horizontal position.
I have found the ink to last longer because of the even dispersement.
When you are going to use the pen just do a practice scribble on a scrap piece of paper to allow the ink to flow down to the nib & you are ready to color, draw, or write.

Happy Crafting!

Sunday, December 20, 2009

HOW TO MAKE SOME CHRISTMAS TAGS BROUGHT TO YOU BY TWO PEAS IN A BUCKET

How Sad...

Well, no comments- no winners.
I suppose I will hold on to the extra copy of the wonderful craft book for a giveaway next time.
It's too bad that no one was interested. The book is great for beginners, for those who want to focus on heritage scrapbooking and even for advanced scrappers.
The principles in the book can be applied to card making, book making & craft organization.
When I said it was chock full of information, I meant it.
Maybe next time.
In any event- I hope you all have a great upcoming holiday.
Hope you check in for the crafting tip of the week.

Happy Crafting!

Thursday, December 17, 2009

REMINDER....BOOK GIVEAWAY RIGHT HERE ON MY BLOG...

Where is everyone???

Don't forget to post a comment, follow my blog & share the news about my giveaway.
The winner will be chosen on Saturday night & I will post it on the blog on Sunday, December 20th.
Read the post below the Amy Grant- Breath of Heaven Song for details about the book being given away.

Happy Crafting!

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

A BEAUTIFUL CHRISTMAS SONG

IT'S GIVEAWAY TIME...

Hello there!

I was lucky enough to have in my stash of goodies not one but 2 books of the same title.
The book is called "New Ideas for Crafting Heritage Albums".
Since I only need one, I thought I would give the other away to one lucky fellow blogger.
I have read my copy of the book and have used it already quite a bit. It is actually chock full of valuable information for any crafter. The book is valued at $24.99 U.S. and it is well worth every penny. It offers presentation techniques, journaling tips, storage do's & don'ts, geneology resources, scrapbook resources & more. It is definitely worth playing along for and I will ship worldwide.

Here's what you have to do: 1-Help spread the word about my blog by posting about my giveaway on your blog if you have one or share the news with a friend.
2-Leave a comment under this post that you have spread the news along with your blog info so I can take a peek at your blog too.
3-Then sign up to follow my blog.

I will be using Random.Org to chose the winner which means you have just as good a chance as anyone to win.

I will draw a number on Sunday December 20th in the evening (Eastern Time) and post the winner on Monday, December 21st.

Don't forget to leave a way for me to get in touch with you in case you are the winner.

Good Luck Everyone & thanks for playing along.

Happy Crafting!

Monday, December 14, 2009

CRAFTING TIP OF THE WEEK (#16) ORGANIZATION FOR RIBBON SPOOLS- MAKE IT YOURSELF

HELLO BLOGGERS!
Today's tip involves a little organization for your ribbons.

Find a rectangular wicker basket, one that is long & as wide as you would like and then find a wood dowel or dowels depending on how many rows of ribbon spools you want to set into the basket.

Insert one end of the dowel into the basket, thread your ribbon spools through that dowel until you fill the basket. Then insert the other end of the dowel into an opening in the wicker basket on the opposite end. If it hangs a little out of the sides of the basket this is okay. In fact, it should.
It will help balance the weight of your ribbon spools & even provide a place for you to hang some precut pieces, ribbon rings or loose fibers. So gage how far out you want those dowels to protrude from each end of the wicker basket.

Remember that you can paint the dowels to match your basket or even hot glue some inexpensive finials at the end to give it a high end look or to match your current decor.

Depending on how wide your basket it is you may get two rows of ribbon or more.
When it is all said & done you will have economical, visible and practical storage for your ribbon stash.
You could keep it out filled with all your favorites & even hang it on the wall.
There are lots of basket options out there- decorative, with handles, without handles, assorted colors & varieties of themes, so it can be fun & functional.

I have seen wicker baskets at the dollar store and dowels as well, so for as low as $2 you can make ribbon storage. That price point will allow you to construct a storage unit for your ribbons that will definitely make the most of your money, time & talent.

Happy Crafting!

Thursday, December 10, 2009

AN UPDATE ON KATE

Wednesday, December 9, 2009 8:39 PM, MST

**AS POSTED BY HOLLY MCCRAE (KATE'S MOM) ON CARING BRIDGE.ORG**

Well, we have been trying our best to do a few little holiday "family" things tonight before Kate's potential readmission tomorrow. It felt more like an emotional zoo, but at least we were all together in our chaos. We tried taking pictures of the kids in front of the Christmas tree, in their matching pajamas. Our last attempt with them all together for the season. Someone is crying in most of them, scowling, or looking to see what Patrick is doing. I think we may have gotten one where everyone was looking and smiling though. My mom and sister then attempted to decorate a SpongeBob pineapple gingerbread house with the kids. Not your typical seasonal house, but seemed to suit us quite well this year. The pineapple would not win any awards, and the dog enjoyed a few of the decorations that ended up on the floor. There were candy beads being thrown, fights over whose turn it was next, Kate's feeding pump alarming it seemed every other minute, Will tooting about the same amount of times and all of us ready just to crawl into bed and call it a day. The pineapple however turned out cute and the kids were proud. A day that started and ended with lots of tears, both of sadness and of gratefulnes​s. The stress of the upcoming round evident in everyone tonight.

I am excited to continue sharing stories from the Christmas drive with you again soon... your generosity has been very moving to us during this time. Thank you!

Someth​ing new has come our way, something we wanted to share with all of you. Author Karen Kingsbury has offered to place Kate in one of her upcoming novels as part of her Forever in Fiction program. Karen is the nation's No. 1 Christian novelist, and she is best known for her Life Changing Fiction. You can read more about her at KarenKingsb​ury.com. I will let Karen tell you in her own words what she has pulled together for Kate:

Dear Friends of Kate McRae,

Like all of you, I've been following the courageous, sometimes heartbreaki​ng, miraculous story of little Kate since her diagnosis with brain cancer this past summer. Kate's family is dealing not only with their daughter's illness, but with the enormous financial strain that has come with it. For that reason, I'd like to place Kate Forever in Fiction, honoring her as a character in one of my upcoming books. Usually this item is auctioned off to raise money for various charities. But in this case, we are trying to raise $25,000 for the McRae family. Here's how it works. Any of you who'd like to help put Kate Forever in Fiction in one of my novels can donate to the Kate McRae fund. With a donation of $100 or more, you will have your name mentioned in the acknowledgm​ents of the book where Kate will be honored. If we have a whole page of your names, that's fine. I welcome all of you to take part in this fundraiser for the McRae family. If we exceed the goal, then that will create a greater relief for Kate's family. Obviously, larger donations will help us reach the goal sooner. Once the goal is reached, Kate will officially become a character in one of my books, where she will be Forever in Fiction. If you'd like more information about Forever in Fiction, visit my website at www.Kare​nKingsbury.​com. Every dollar raised by this fundraiser will go directly to the McRae family. Thank you for being a great encourageme​nt, an amazing prayer support, and for standing with the McRae family in their most dire hour. And let's keep praying for a miracle for Kate. In His light and love, Karen​ Kingsbury

T​his information will soon be posted at www.prayfor​kate.com under "support" if you are interested. Thank you for your continued prayers as we go to clinic tomorrow and see if Kate is ready to start the 5th round of chemo.

Wednesday, December 9, 2009

A YOU TUBE VIDEO FIND- CHRISTMAS CARD TIPS FROM LEAH FUNG, DONNA & JOHANNA



MY FIRST EVER BLOG AWARD!

Remember the movie "A Christmas Story", when the dad excitedly exclaims...
I won, I won, it's a major award...something like that anyway!

Well that's totally me right now.

Okay, I may be a dork but I am super excited because I received a blogger award.
I have had some hits and have a few followers but there are times when I feel the blog is going no where. And then...I get this!

This award could not come at a better time!

My camera broke, I am jobless and had major water damage in my basement which caused a boat load of losses- so some nice news like this blogger award has helped cheer me up. Blog candy would be nice but this is great too.

Thanks to all who have stopped by, those following & for those tuning in for the first time, I hope you can find something helpful on the blog.

I was hoping to share more hand crafted projects, cards, layouts & crafts but with no camera to do so I am afraid the site will be chock full of tips, video finds & other odds & ends.

THANK YOU TO WHOEVER SENT THE BLOGGER AWARD!
It was anonymous so I really don't know who to thank -so thank you ALL.


Keep tuning in!

CREATALICIOUS CHALLENGES HAS A BLOG CANDY GIVEAWAY...

Check out the Creatalicious Challenges blog for some great projects & your chance to win some terrific blog candy @ http://creataliciouschallenges.blogspot.com

Here is a pic of all the goodies you can win.



Tuesday, December 8, 2009

A VIDEO ON HOW TO MAKE BEAUTIFUL PAPER SNOWFLAKES

Just thought I would share this great find of a video.
You can make these lovely snowflakes for your holiday & winter projects- everything from cards, gift tags and home decor.

Enjoy!

Monday, December 7, 2009

CHRISTMAS WITH THE CRICUT- CARD VIDEO

Hi friends!
Just thought I would share this simple yet lovely video on how to make a Christmas card.

The talented Melanie over on the Christmas with the Cricut blog put this together and makes you feel like you can do it too.

Check it out.

CRAFTING TIP OF THE WEEK (#15) CAN A PIZZA ROLLER HELP U IN THE CRAFT ROOM?

Hi Crafters!
Today's tip is a quick tool tip.

I was browsing around the kitchen section at Target recently & found a pizza roller for only .37 cents. So I said, gotta get that! I was not thinking craft tool at the time but it has been & remains a staple in my stash.

Any guesses as to what I use it for or in place of???

If you guessed a brayer my friends you would be correct!

So...if you find yourself in need of a brayer, look to kitchen supplies. You may get lucky & find one on a super duper clearance like I did or you can have fun finding a vintage one at flea markets, antique stores or swap meets. Just what you needed...another reason to go shopping.

Have a great day everyone.

Happy Crafting!

Wednesday, December 2, 2009

THE DR. PHIL SHOW TODAY

Did anyone catch the episode today?
It was a moving second half of the show as they debuted the story of Kate McCrae.
She is the adorable, resilient 5 year old that many crafters have sent hand-made cards to. Jennifer McGuire held a card drive for Kate bringing her story to light.

Now Dr. Phil has also featured her on his show today and has a dedicated spot on his blog where you can donate to Kate.

The show was moving, sad & a true testament to the love of a family.
Please continue to keep Kate & the rest of the McCraes in prayer.
My heart goes out to them & I simply wanted to send out a message of hope,love and sincere warmth.

As crafters your heartfelt creations go a long way.
Continue to help bring joy to these families...one card at a time.

Keep Crafting!

Tuesday, December 1, 2009

The " I Need Your Help" Blog Giveaway- January 1, 2010




Okay, first you are probably wondering why this is dated January 1, 2010. Well, this blog giveaway is open until 12/31/2009 at 12 midnight PST. Here's what's up for grabs:

This is the FIRST PLACE PRIZE....there are four others. Here's how it works.

Purple Cows is having a awesome competition to see which Design Team member can drum up the most followers on Sadie's Blog or on the new Facebook Fan Page (www.facebook.com/purplecows) Texas Scrap Addict is giving away a HUGE PRIZE to one random blog reader who becomes a Sadie follower and mentions that Texas Scrap Addict Vicki sent them!!! She is also giving away four smaller prizes. REMEMBER! MENTION THAT VICKI SENT YOU!!

Here's what you need to do:
Go to the Purple Cows Blog, scroll down the right hand side of the blog to Followers, click on Follow, to become a follower. Then leave a comment on any post saying you are a follower and Vicki sent you. Or go to Purple Cows Facebook Page and click on the link to become a fan. Then post a comment on the wall to let Sadie know you are a fan and Vicki sent you.

Then go back to TEXAS SCRAP ADDICTS's Blog and post a comment to the prize POST telling her you are a follower/fan now. For extra spots in the drawing for the prizes: post about this on your facebook page, twitter about it and put it with a link on your blog. Each of these actions gets you another entry into the drawing.

She HAS to get 200 people signed up for this giveaway to occur. So , help her out and WIN BIG!!!

Please visit Vicki on her blog at : texasscrapaddict.blogspot.com

Monday, November 30, 2009

CRAFTING TIP OF THE WEEK (#14) RECYCLING & STAMP-A-MA-JIG-COULD THERE BE A LINK?

Today's tip involves recycling. Whenever you pop open those packages that have clear acetate windows that allow you to see your product through the packaging or is anywhere on the packaging- SAVE IT!

You can use it to stamp your images to help you figure out placement on your projects. They can serve as a spacer, template or guide to help you get your positioning just right.

All you have to do is stamp your image on the clear surface. Then set it on your card, scrap layout, or project to see where you think your stamped image might look best. This allows you to try it out in different areas of your project before committing to placement. Once you have placement figured out you can then stamp your image without reservation of placement.

Go ahead & give it a try. I am sure you will find it helpful.

Happy Crafting!

Sunday, November 29, 2009

THE LATEST HOT PAPERCRAFTING PRODUCTS VIDEO

HEY CRAFTERS~JUST WANTED TO SHARE THIS VIDEO OF A FEW OF THE HOTTEST PRODUCTS OUT THERE FOR CRAFTING.
THEY ALSO CORROBORATE MY PREVIOUS POST RE: SCRAPBOOKSTEALS.COM.
Enjoy!




SCRAPBOOK STEALS

Hey guys~ I know that Black Friday shopping probably yielded some amazing deals for you but I wanted to let you in on a little something I found online.

It is the site: www.scrapbooksteals.com.

Check it out!

You are likely to find some of the latest papercrafting products at some really great prices without having to step out of your home.

Keep Crafting!

Hello!

Hey there everyone~ hope your Thanksgiving holiday was wonderful.

I had the opportunity to see family & it was terrific.
I am truly blessed beyond measure.
The only thing that could have made it better was if my husband were home to share it with us.
He is currently deployed so obviously Thanksgiving at home was not possible.
That being said, I wanted to remind you all to please, please, please...
Remember the soldiers!

They so want to keep in touch with family and loved ones.
Help them do that by going to: operationwritehome.org.
There you will see a tab welcoming new card makers, go ahead click on it. Find out how your card making talents can be put to great use.

In the spirit of thankfulness I wanted to express my gratitude to those who stop by my blog.

I encourage you to share your comments and appreciate your feedback.

In the upcoming weeks I plan on having a giveaway so stay tuned for the details.

Blessings to you all.

Happy Crafting!

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

VIDEO ON HOW TO MAKE A STEP CARD- THIS LADY IS VERY TALENTED!

Hello everyone!
I viewed this great video on how to make a step card. The card is just adorable & would be fun to give this holiday season. This crafter is great at instructing. She is talented and her warm spirit leaps off her craft videos.

Monday, November 23, 2009

CRAFTING TIP OF THE WEEK (#13) WRITTEN TUTORIAL -MAKING COMPUTER TYPE WHITE IN WORD

This week's tip is more of a tutorial on how to make your computer type white in Microsoft Word.
1-Open a blank Word document, then go to File, Page Setup and choose landscape as your orientation.

2-Go to Insert, Text Box and click inside your document. Drag the corners until the text box is roughly the size you want.

3-Double Click the edge of the text box to bring up the Format Text Box menu. On the Colors & Lines tab, select a Fill Color. UnderLine, choose NO LINE. Click OK.

4-Create a 2nd text box(specify NO FILL/NO LINE), and drag it on top of your 1st text box. Type a character in the box and select a font & size.

5-Highlight the character, go to FORMAT, FONT, FONT COLOR, and choose the same color as your background box.

6- Highlight the character again, go to FONT COLOR and selct MORE COLORS. Click the CUSTOM TAB and drag the slider bar so the character is a slightly lighter shade than the background bar.
7-Create a third text box (specify NO FILL/NO LINE)and drag it on top of both existing text boxes. Type in your title, and select a font & size. Hightlight words, go to FONT Color and choose white.

Happy Crafting!

Sunday, November 22, 2009

JESUS FIRST...DO YOU BELIEVE?

A MOVING VIDEO FROM THE I AM SECOND WEBSITE- JUST THOUGHT I WOULD SHARE ON THIS LOVELY SUNDAY NIGHT...

CRICUT CARTRIDE GIVEAWAY

WEEK 18: Featured Cartridges & Giveaway Info!
Christmas with the Cricut will be featuring the WINTER WOODLAND and EVERYDAY PAPER DOLLS cartridges this week!

This Week's Giveaways:

A CARTRIDGE EACH DAY STARTING MONDAY!

PAPER PACK FROM CORE'DINATIONS

CRAFT-E-CORNER "YOU PICK ONE" CARTRIDGE

HOW TO WIN?
1) Subscribe by email/RSS feed or follow the blog. It is http://cricutchristmas.blogspot.com

2) Leave a comment under each post, each week, by midnight Saturday for a maximum number of chances to win!

3) Check back on Sundays to see if you won!

LAYOUTS OF MY GIRLS & NEPHEW/GODSON



FOR ALL THOSE CRICUT FANS OUT THERE WHO STILL HAVE NOT TRIED CUTTING VINYL- THIS VIDEO IS FOR YOU

Saturday, November 21, 2009

IN THE SPIRIT OF THANKSGIVIING

I want to share with you all some beautiful expressions of gratitude as we approach the upcoming holidays. Please remember that we should not only resign ourselves to gratitude during the holidays but all the days of our lives.

I pray they touch your heart in some way. My hope is that we are all able to learn gratitude - in all our circumstances, even the most difficult times in our lives; for each of these is also a chance for us to grow and bloom.

**************************************************
For, after all, put it as we may to ourselves, we are all of us from birth to death guests at a table which we did not spread. The sun, the earth, love, friends, our very breath are parts of the banquet.... Shall we think of the day as a chance to come nearer to our Host, and to find out something of Him who has fed us so long?
~Rebecca Harding Davis

Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today and creates a vision for tomorrow.
~Melody Beattie


Not what we say about our blessings, but how we use them, is the true measure of our thanksgiving.
~W.T. Purkiser

Thanksgiving Day comes, by statute, once a year; to the honest man it comes as frequently as the heart of gratitude will allow.
~Edward Sandford Martin


The unthankful heart... discovers no mercies; but let the thankful heart sweep through the day and, as the magnet finds the iron, so it will find, in every hour, some heavenly blessings!
~Henry Ward Beecher

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

CRAFTING TIP OF THE WEEK (#12) ANTIQUING ANYONE?

This week's tip has to do with ANTIQUING & AGING your projects or embellishments.
Many of us like the look but maybe, just maybe can't run out to pick up the latest products to achieve the look. It could also be that you are trying to meet a deadline,it is midnight & you are crafting away before you realize, I really need that walnut stain ink!
*Never fear, look no further then your cupboards dears*

Brew a cup of tea or coffee, let it cool completely then dip a paint brush or use a cloth to soak up the homemade stain so you can apply it where you want it. Let it dry and TA-DA...you have yourself an antiqued or aged looking project.


Happy Crafting!

Sunday, November 15, 2009

More Gift Tags









Hi everyone!
Just thought I would share some more gift tags I have been making.
Forgive the quality of the photos. I so need a new camera!
Maybe "SANTA" will get me a new one this year.
Regardless of my not so good equipement I will continue to post.
Have a great Sunday everyone.

Friday, November 13, 2009

Scrapbooking from the Inside Out





Scrapbooking from the Inside Out has launched their November kit Generosity, perfect for this time of year. This kit is so graceful and stylish – full of rich, deep color and elegant design, with coins, copper accents, shimmery self-adhesive mosaic tiles, and pretty Prima.

This month they’ll help you explore how you give of your time and money, inspiring a generous spirit in yourself and your family, positive self care vs. selfishness, and the big and small gestures that create connection in your life.

Beside this post are two GENEROSITY-themed LOs from SFTIO’s DT Coordinator, Nancy Doren, that were created using the kit.

Scrapbooking from the Inside Out's industry-exclusive content will help you explore your inner world with a music playlist, journaling prompts, moving photos, inspiring quotes, and meaningful monthly challenges.

To enter to win one of these great kits, repost this post on your blog and link it back to Scrapbook Trends, then give us a link to your blog post in the comment section of this post, and you could be exploring what GENEROSITY means to you!

Another Giveaway...


My friend over at the thinkin' spot blog is having a giveaway in celebration of 10,000 hits on her blog.

Believe me when I tell you she deserves every one of them. Her blog is fantastic & she has great things to share.

I love going on her site but don't take my word for it, check it out yourself.
She has a detailed list telling you exactly what you can win.

You got to be in it to win it!

PICTRES OF MY PAPERCRAFTING GOODNESS FROM MY GERMAN CRAFT STORE EXCURSION

WOW...that was a mouthful of a title.

Anyway, while in Germany I was able to find a craft store in Frankfurt called IDEE CREATIV. My dear husband was kind enough to drop me off right in front and let me do my bidding.

He was content to just sit this one out. Imagine my surprise!

While there I was able to find a couple of things that I had not seen in any craft stores back home so you know what that means.

You know how all the stores are selling their own versions of recyclable bags that you can bring with you to shop & reshop? Well, IDEE had their own in black which was super cute so you know I had to have one.

Check out my pics below of my goodies.

Happy Friday!

Thursday, November 12, 2009





BLOG CANDY GIVEAWAY


PAYNEHOLLERCARDS.BLOGSPOT.COM IS HAVING A GIVEAWAY OF SOME GREAT STUFF.
HERE'S THE LIST OF GOODIES:
Candy Package:
Stampin Up set 2006 Gently Falling
Stampin Up set 2007 Sidekick Sayings
Cuttlebug Embossing folder - Flourished Frame
Hot Off the Press - 25 chocolate flowers
K&Company chipboard die-cut tags
Making Memories chipboard jigsaw alphabets
Scrap Works re/hot pink color rubz alphabets (402 letters, plus numbers/punctuations)
Marvy's GIGA scallop circle punch

CHECK OUT HER BEATIFUL CREATIONS AND REALLY INSPIRING BLOG. I WAS LUCKY ENOUGH TO FIND IT & THOUGHT I WOULD SHARE NOT ONLY THE GOOD NEWS ABOUT SUCH A LOVELY BLOG BUT HER GENEROUS GIVEAWAY.

PLAN ON GOING BACK TOO- YOU CAN LEARN LOTS.

HAPPY CRAFTING!

Monday, November 9, 2009

Paper Crafting Product Find-Cutter Glide-Prolongs the Life of Your Cutting Tools

Even though it's Monday, this could not wait til' Friday!

Hey Crafters~ just thought I would share a find that I recently discovered.

It is:

Cutter Glide™

Cutter Glide can be used on cutting blades, craft punches, guillotine cutters,
scissors, needles, and even polymer clay tools! It's solvent-free,
environmentally safe, and bonds to virtually any material. Apply it to tools
for a durable coating which will reduce friction and decrease wear.

It's a must have in any crafter's corner.

Saturday, November 7, 2009

Quick Crafting Tip (#11) RAID YOUR PANTRY

I experienced another who doesn't love "FREE" moment...

Check out this idea!

If you're looking for something a little stronger than scrapbook paper or cardstock but don't quite want heavy chipboard to make mini-albums or homemade embellishments, look no further then your pantry.

Yes, you read it right... I said your pantry.

Look to cereal boxes, mac & cheese boxes, cracker boxes and any other boxes that your groceries come packaged in.

You can save yourself a pretty penny.

Just use your personal stash of scrapbook paper, paints or inks to give the cardboard a little facelift. You can customize it anyway you would like. They do provide a slightly stronger composition then cardstock and are actually easy to work with. They cut well with scissors. I even tried using one of my punches on a piece & it actually worked like a charm. They take to sand paper well and if you use a large needle you can even stitch it.

Friday, November 6, 2009

Heavy Heart & Thoughts of Hope & Love to All @ Fort Hood

In light of the tragic situation that unfolded in Fort Hood, Texas yesterday I wanted to remind you crafters that there is a way to reach out.
Please check out OperationWriteHome.org to see how.

Also keep all the service men & women, families and staff in your prayers!

They can use our love & support not just when a tragedy hits but every day.

Thank you for reaching out.

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

CRAFTING TIP OF THE WEEK (#10) SCRAPS

In light of the upcoming "entertaining" a.k.a. the holiday season, I thought I would share a tip on how to use scraps of paper for easy projects that you can use when entertaining. Whether your planning an intimate dinner for two or buffet meal for a few, this idea is sure to be suitable.


If you have scraps of paper in your stash that you just could not trash...

Here are 3 ideas for their use:

1- As a place card/name card for seating at the dinner table
2- As a identifier tent for your buffet items. For example, if you set out different dishes, you can use stickers or your favorite copic markers to write what each of the dishes are then place the folded, tent like card in front of the dish.
3-As a seal or cover for little cellophane treat bags. You would just fit your scrap piece of cardstock (fully embellished of course) over your cellophane bag after filling it with goodies, fastening it into place with either the fastenater or the Tim Holtz Tiny Attacher. Think of how great it would be to send your guest home with customized treat bags.

Happy Crafting!

I'm Ba'ack...

Sort of...

While I finally have the computer back & in working order, I will not have too much time to blog and do all the fun crafty things online as I did before.
The water damage restoration process is long & laborious. It requires so much of my attention. There have been contractors and service people in & out of my home since the day of its' discovery.The damage was vast and there is still a lot of work to be done.
So forgive me if the blogs are not as frequent.
I am so glad to be blogging again. I hope you all are out there & tuning in.

Some time soon I will post pictures of the craft store I was lucky enough to visit while in Germany along with the pics of the goodies I purchased.

Remember to stay tuned.
Keep Crafting!

Friday, October 30, 2009

Halloween Treat Holders



This is what I have been up to in between water damage restoration and cleanup.

Happy Halloween Crafters!

Monday, October 26, 2009

Tip of the Week (#9) Got Makeup?...or a case that is

I discovered that cosmetic cases or makeup compartment trays work wonders for organizing your crafting tools and/or supplies.
I found a clear acrylic cosmetic tray with compartments for lots of items. This one had a slot wide enough for a 12x12 paper trimmer, a smaller paper trimmer, slots for adhesives, paint, glitter bottles, scissors, rulers, pokey pix, and more.

This thing had about 7 storage slots! The look was sleek and it could sit flat on a hard surface and provide quite a few storage options giving you the ability to have those most used crafting tools right at your finger tips. The best thing about this storage solution was the price. I found it at Big Lots for just $5.99. There aren’t many products out at the moment for desktop craft supply/tool storage that can boast that price point. You could either purchase a cosmetic case with the lid and hide everything away when you’re done with it, or you could purchase a cosmetic tray providing you the open concept, quick access option. Either way, practical and efficient storage will be readily available if you dare purchase a cosmetic case.

So next time you are out and about, keep your eyes open! Just because a product is marketed for one use doesn’t mean we can’t give it another. Always remember to check your local discount and warehouse stores. They may very well surprise you.

Happy Crafting!

Surrogate Blogging

Yes, there is such a thing and it's how you're able to read this and the previous post. My lovely daughter has agreed to post my words (word for word) while I wait for my computer to be restored. I realize it is unconventional, and perhaps even unheard of, but this blog has come to mean a lot to me. I really feel like I'm missing an opportunity if I don't blog. It is incredible how one can become attached to the computer! My daughter lives in another state, so I faxed her my written blogs and she posted them. She is SO sweet to help her mom.

When I am able to post pics of my shopping excursion to the craft store in Germany, I will tell you all about it. I will preface that story by alerting you now-the craft stores are better stocked in the US. That being said, I did still manage to find some terrific treats, and on sale too! Things are pricey there and the conversion from dollar to euro wasn't great. Still, leave it to me to find the deals. I am so glad to be home but miss my honey bunny greatly! (Yes, now would be a good time to pity my child who is blogging this).

Okay everyone-stay tuned! I will have a storage tip following this post!

Happy crafting!

No I did not fall of the face of the Earth, but...

Hello All! I'm back in the good ol' USA. A lot has happened since my return. While my trip was indeed a wonderful experience that I will treasure always, the return home was somewhat eventful in its own right.

I came home to a flood in my basement, a ton of water damage, and lots of collateral damage. This includes some much beloved photos. As the self-appointed family archivist, you can well imagine what this has done to me on an emotional scale. As if that wasn't enough, my computer is completely inoperable. I have had contractors in and out of the house from sun-up to sun-down. Also, my dog ran away then decided to come back. I had no hot water for over a week, and as I write this, I still have none. This has been quite the ordeal. One thing this whole crisis has done for me is restore my faith in humanity. All the people involved in assisting me and bringing our basement back to pre-loss condition have been truly AMAZING! I would love to post more pictures of my Germany trip but at the moment it will have to wait due to the current state of my computer. I hope all is well for everyone.

Happy Crafting!

Friday, October 16, 2009

*Crafting Tip* (#8) Got Broken Jewelry?

Re-purpose old, broken, mismatched or lone pieces of jewelry that you may have in your jewelry box just desperately waiting to be worn or fixed.


If you find you have some you can use them as dangles by threading ribbon through the piece for your mini books. Or by just adding a strong adhesive to part of a jewel piece and placing it on your cards as an interactive piece. It can also act as a pull of sorts or just fill some space in a window card or shadow box.

I am certain that all you crafty chicas & chicos will find a way to make them work.

Happy Crafting!

ANOTHER PARTICRAFT BLOG CANDY GIVEAWAY


Just wanted you all to know that the folks over at the particraft blog are doing it again.
Go check out their blog for your chance to win. Included in this post is a pic of what you can win. For specifics go to:
HTTP://PARTICRAFT.BLOGSPOT.COM

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

ENJOY THE PICS BELOW OF SOME OF THE SITES IN DEUTSCHLAND

I am overwhelmed by all its castles, cathedrals and architecture.
It is incredibly beautiful!



Hello from Germany

Just a quick note to say hello from GERMANY fellow crafters.
I have been invigorated and inspired by some of the amazing sites here in Germany. I am still here & had the opportunity to get to a computer and check on my humble blog.
A special THANKS to all those who have stopped by and to Samantha for her kind comment.
I hope to go to a scrap store I found online but since it is about an hour away we are trying to find a way to work it into the schedule. There aren't as many scrap or craft stores surprisingly.
If there are any German followers or peekers as I like to call those that occasionally peek into the blog, please feel free to leave a comment with any info you may have re: scrapbooking stores near Ramstein.
Alright everyone, it is getting late so I am heading off to bed that way I am well rested for tomorrow's adventures.
Keep crafting.

Thursday, October 8, 2009

CARDS





*CARDS*





Xtra Crafting Tip of the Week (#7) PUNCH IT!

What do scraps of paper & punches have in common?

You can use both to make 3-D embellishments!

If you are lucky enough to have a few punches in your stash take advantage of it.
Punch the shapes using up some of the scraps of cardstock & patterned paper I just know us crafters can't seem to part with.

Paper punching can even be a family activity. While you, the hubster & short ones are taking in a t.v. show or two you can delegate punching duties to your troops. Give each family member a punch, a couple of scrap sheets of paper and let the paper punching begin.

Once they have punched their hearts out, take your punch outs to your work area and contemplate the possibilities. You can use rub-ons, glitter, emboss or depending on the size of them even place photos on them. Punch outs are very versatile but in numbers they can really make something pop by layering them. Just use foam squares or pop dots to layer them on top of each other to create a 3-D effect. It's a great way to get them involved in your beloved addiction to paper crafting & scrapbooking.

Happy Crafting!

Germany Bound

Hello out there in blog-land!
Great news, we are getting the opportunity of a lifetime to travel to Germany.
That means I won't be blogging for about a week or so.
I hope you still will follow my blog & stay tuned. I expect to come back with some inspiration, new tips, techniques & ideas to share with you all.
There is something invigorating about visiting distant lands or so they say.
I get to find out first hand this upcoming week and I couldn't be more thrilled.
It will be my first time traveling outside of North America and for me that is big.
I will be posting an extra tip since I won't be here to leave one for next week.
I also will be posting a few more cards I had the opportunity to make.
I have been working on gift tags & more cards to complete an order placed by one of my customers. It has been fulfilling to work on these projects for me. They are more than just an order.
Okay all have a terrific week and I will blog when I get back.
AUF WEIDERSEIN...FOR NOW
Happy Crafting!

Monday, October 5, 2009

CRAFTING TIP OF THE WEEK (#6) INCORPORATING MUSIC IN YOUR PAPERCRAFTING-YES, IT CAN BE DONE!

Have you ever had a moment where you heard a song and it just took you back in time? You know, like the the tune Happy Birthday or Girls Just Wanna Have Fun.
In that spirit I have found an inexpensive way to add songs...YES...music to my layouts or cards. I know there is currently a device out in the scrap market which offers this unique & clever dimension to our paper crafting but my idea is a little more affordable.
You know those Hallmark music cards that offer a variety of songs for all occasions? Yes, those very cards are the ticket. It is less expensive to buy one of those and add it to your pages then it is to go out & get the device currently being marketed.
You would simply have to remove the device buy cutting it out of the card & use a strong adhesive to adhere it to your project (Glue Dots come to mind).

Now if you are concerned about the acid-free, archival aspect just do not adhere the device directly on to your photos.
Just think of the possibilities. If any of you decide to try it, leave me a comment on my blog about how you made this idea into reality on your paper crafting project.
Happy Crafting!

Sunday, October 4, 2009

PEACHY KEEN STAMPS CHALLENGE BLOG CANDY

You have got to check out the selection of fresh & adorable stamps they put out.
They are currently posting info on their blog for a chance to win some super sweet blog candy. Head on over & see what all the "fuzz" is about!
PeachyKeenStampsChallenge

Friday, October 2, 2009

BLOG CANDY GIVEAWAY AT PARTICRAFT.BLOGSPOT.COM

Hey there- while you are wandering the world wide web indulging in all things crafty, head on over to the Particraft blogspot for some great inspiration & a chance at winning some blog candy.

Last One...For Now