Zipper Flowers - another tutorial

Okay, I said no more flower tutorial today, but I just found this one and it is tutorial Tuesday, so, why not? Check these out....

A zipper flower???  I have visions of zipper flowers on male layouts and cards, maybe? What do you think? Well, if they aren't your cup of tea, I certainly understand, but, I have three sons and I am always looking for ways to make male layouts more interesting!! If you wanna know more, find the tutorial here


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Favorite Quick Techniques

from About Scrapbooking

Some of my favorite articles here on About.com Scrapbooking are based on simple techniques that can help you make quick and stylish scrapbook pages.

Corner Rounder Revival - By using a corner rounder judiciously you can impact the design of some of your layouts. The three pages in this gallery give you ideas of how rounded corners can be used as an integral part of the page design.

Quick Geometrics - Simple shapes are an easy way to add interest and good graphic design to your scrapbook pages. Concentric square and circle punches allow you to complete these types of layouts quickly.

Monogram Chipboard Letters - Video - One extra large letter on your scrapbook page is a dramatic focal point. Many companies sell large chipboard letters, however in this video you will learn how to make your own. You can also visit the Monogram Chipboard Letters gallery for sketchs and page ideas.



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Featured Video: Ribbon Weaving

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colored pencil technique video

Texture Techniques for scrapbooking

Brought to you by Claudine Hellmuth

Stamp 'n Cross Stitch Technique from Leisure Arts

you can find the original video here

Where To Learn Beginner Scrapbooking Techniques

Christine Perry

Beginner scrapbookers have many resources available to learn how to scrapbook. Scrapbooking is one of the fastest growing hobbies, and options for learning this craft come in many different places. Before considering which method is best for you, consider your time and money commitment, as well as, your goals for scrapbooking.

Are you just looking to make attractive pages for your family to enjoy and preserve your photographs and memories? Maybe you want to learn scrapbooking for a new hobby you can share with others. Scrapbooking can be as simple or as complex as you want to make it.

Your local craft store is a great resource to learn beginner scrapbooking. Some craft stores specialize in scrapbooking, and their staff can help you choose basic tools and supplies to get you started. Many of these stores offer classes on the latest techniques. These classes often allow you to try out new tools and see how others approach their scrapbook pages. You might also take a project class that allows you to complete an entire album.

Scrapbooking classes vary in cost, but most are quite reasonable. They usually provide all the tools and materials necessary, which make them a great way to try out this hobby with little financial investment. You will need to bring several photographs to use on your page layouts. Teachers are experienced and enthusiastic. They are trained to teach all levels of scrapbooking techniques and can answer any questions you might have about this hobby to help you decide if scrapbooking is right for you. Don’t be surprised if you see more experienced scrapbookers in these classes. Some people will take them just for the social aspect of the class and for new ideas on how to use basic techniques more effectively.

To find a class in your area, check with the large craft stores, as well as your local scrapbooking stores. Most offer classes with convenient schedules, and many offer classes that can be started any time.

Another option is to learn beginner scrapbooking in your own home. Direct sales companies, like Creative Memories and Close to My Heart, have consultants that will come to your home and give a class on basic scrapbooking. Much like a Tupperware party, you invite your friends to your home for a lesson. The consultant will teach the basic philosophy behind scrapbooking, as well as, how to choose supplies and tools, and how to design a simple page. You and your friends will usually make a 2-page layout with materials supplied by the consultant and photos you bring from home. Consultants may or may not charge for the lesson. This usually depends on the cost of the supplies used for the pages. The lesson usually ends with an opportunity to purchase that company’s products.

Scrapbooking magazines are full of information on basic techniques and beginner tips. In the United States, most bookstores sell a variety of scrapbooking magazines. The most popular magazines are Creating Keepsakes, Simple Scrapbooks, Memory Makers and Scrapbooks, Etc. Buy a single issue of each magazine first. Each has a slightly different slant on scrapbooking. For example, Simple Scrapbooks focuses on quick, easy pages. Once you find one that seems to match your style, buy the annual subscription which is always more cost effective than buying single newsstand copies.

Many craft stores offer crop nights that can be another way to learn scrapbooking. Crops bring together groups of scrapbookers to work on their pages together. Basically, they are scrapbooking parties. The store will often charge a nominal fee and provide refreshments for the evening. Many will allow you to use their tools during the crop, as well. This is a great way to try out more expensive tools, like die cut machines and cutters. You could even invite your scrapbooking friends to your home for a crop. Crops allow everyone to share techniques with each other and provide beginner scrapbookers with tips and ideas.

One more option to learn basic techniques is to purchase an album kit. Many album kits come complete with all the supplies you need to make a scrapbook. They provide detailed instructions and sometimes even basic color and design layout theory. However, to complete the album you will need to buy your own tools, such as, scissors and adhesive.

Once you’ve learned beginner scrapbooking, remember to practice your techniques often. The more pages you make the better you will become at designing layouts. As you master the basics, you can use the same resources above to find more advanced tips and techniques.

Use Scrapbooking Techniques for Your Home Business Portfolio

October 18, 2009 by Mary Emma Allen

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Generally we think of making scrapbooks to hold family memories and photos. We even teach classes to help others develop various types of scrapbooks.
Image: sxc.hu

Image: sxc.hu

However, you can utilize scrapbooking techniques for business portfolios. Also, you can assemble these “portfolios” online, or scan into your computer, for viewing online (at your blog or web site) by potential customers. I’ve used these techniques for two of my home businesses.

I transformed a photograph album type of scrapbook into a portfolio when I had a quiltmaking/patchwork business. In it I placed photos and descriptions of items I had for sale or could make on order. I also included a history of my quiltmaking, with photos of craft shows and displays.

This was before the current scrapbooking era, so I didn’t have many scrapbooking supplies available to accessorize the pages. However, album was successful in showcasing my work.

Currently I’m compiling a Party Planning scrapbook portfolio for my virtual party planning venture. This gives pictures of parties planned, ideas for parties, and resources where the customer and I can find the supplies needed. This portfolio is in conjunction with my party planning blog.

By utilizing scrapbooking techniques, I find the portfolio is more attractive and eye-catching. It also gives an idea of my creativity.

Have you ever thought of using your scrapbooking/collaging talents in this way to promote your home business?

Today's Video: Baby Wipes Technique

Fellow Su demo Lisa; created this great technique video, enjoy!

New Stamping Video, Cracked Glass

I love Stamp TV videos and I wish I had more time to make my own! Here is Gina K with another great technique video on making a faux cracked glass image.

Stamping Techniques Video

Watch this video for a look at such stamping techniques as masking, creating embellishments and faux watercolour effects using chalks. All of the techniques covered are simple, easy to achieve and stunning when applied to any form of project you may have in the works! Also be sure to check the Whispers Brush Marker video, a very useful item for use in your stamping projects! For more information & inspiration, vist www.docrafts.co.uk

Rubber Stamping Techniques

RUBBER STAMPING TECHNIQUES

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Ever wonder where some of these stamping techniques come from? Ever wonder how someone did that great technique? Here are a few resources to help you find new techniques.... I hope you find atleast one source or technique that is new to you!

Art Glitter: outlines techniques and information on AIG Glitter and Transparencies

Stamp Mall: instructions for Aluminum Foil Stamping

The Stampin Place: using a rubber brayer to attain creative background results

The Stamping Studio: tutorial and instructions to make stamped and beaded pens

Stampin Addicts: how to create textured and dimensional stamped backgrounds

Rubber Road Adventures: over-stamped bleached background technique

Stampin Buds: tips for using blending pens

Michael Shannon: offers a tutorial on simple and creative book making

Brass-Stencils: embossing tips and information on using brass stencils

Scrapbookie: how to make a scrapbook using brown paper bags

Clearly Rubber Stamping: using rubber stamps and colored ink on candles

After Midnight Stamps: CD Pin instructions and tutorial

Craftbits: simple tutorial on making CD Sun Catchers

Altered Book: how to make a mini coin envelope tag book

Deb’s Stampin Spot: tips and techniques for using Crystal Lacquer

Swirlydoos: using Alcohol Inks to customize your stamped projects

DIY Network: Tutorial for making your own button and cork stamps

Scrapbook Advice: discusses types, uses, and applications of decorative pens

The Enchanted Gallery: creative Domino Art ideas and techniques

Stampin Up: illustration of Dry Embossing technique

Moments of Your Heart: using embossing powder to achieve color

Tale of Hare: embossing powder tips, tricks and recipes

Instructables: complete instructions for making Envelope Books

By Donovan: instructions and templates to make your own envelopes

Expression Art: how to artfully stamp on faux tiles

Joggles: easy tutorial outlining fabric stamping technique

Blockhead Stamps: instructions for glass marbling with Micro Marbles

US Artquest: instructions for making glass ornaments with stamps and pigments

Cloud 9 Tips & Techniques: tips and techniques for using Glaze Pens

Eureka Stamps: using stamps to embellish with gold leaf flakes

Scottish Border Stamping: explains the use of the Grid Technique to create stamping patterns

Art Without Anxiety: explains the different types of ink and inkpads used for various stamping techniques

Iris Folding: lesson plan and project tutorial on the art of Iris Folding

D.Harm Trading: general information and application ideas for Lumiere Paints

Learn 2 Stamp: the basics of the Medallion stamping technique used to create dimension

Atlas Quest: provides direction on mounting your own stamps

Michaels: instructions for making an acrylic stamped notepad holder

Fun Science: illustrates how to make your own paper at home using recycled paper products

Ecstasy Crafts: explains the general technique of Paper Trapunto design

Fabric and Art: tips and techniques for using Pearl Ex Powdered Pigments

Sara Jane Studio: illustration of the use of the Polished Stone Technique for making textured backgrounds

Makers Gallery: simple illustrated instructions on how to make Pop Up Cards

Craft Town Hobby Land: details the use of Rainbow Sponges and provides project ideas

Scratchboard: tutorial on Scratch Board basics

Scrapbook.com: Provides thousands of themed and inspirational scrapbook layouts

Split Coast Stampers: using the Shaving Cream Technique to create dimensional backgrounds

Creative Mode: illustration of the Slide Stamping technique

Close to My Heart: how to use a candle to create the Soot Stamping effect

Sparkle N Sprinkle: general techniques for spotlight stamping for highlighting effects

House of Stir Fry: provides templates to create your own stamped playing cards

Soap Impressions: instructions for stamping on soap

Coxes Art & Stamping: provides a comprehensive glossary of stamping terms, including abbreviations and techniques

Trystan Craft: instructions for stamping on velvet

Nut N Honey: provides solutions for stamp storage and display

Trish Bee: mixing and stamping techniques for Walnut Ink

Stampington & Company: watercolor techniques for stamped images

By Request: Angie's Sticky Notes Holder Tutorial

By request, I have provided a link to the wonderful Angie Kennedy Juda's awesome tutorial for the sticky notes tutorial: Be sure to stop by Angie's page and give her props for these awesome projects!

Depth of Field Technique

I have been loving all the sampes I have seen using the Depth of Field
Technique from the latest TJ newsletter. I had to give it a try.
It requires a bold stamp and I just used A Rose is a Rose last night to decorate
some lunch sacks for Sherill to send to RMH. Since it was still sitting on my table, I just grabbed it and went to town. I didnt have gray ink, crap, i just realized I couldve used a stampin Spot... Oh well, so I substituted the kiwi kiss in stead of gray and I used Pink Pirouette (So sad to see this one go) and Riding Hood Red. (gonna miss that one too!) As I started stamping, I realized the reason this one must have popped in my head is because it looks so similar to the Bella Rose papers. (Another one I am really going to miss!) Anyway, I really like the way it came out, Iadded a background of Bella Rose, of course! And this is what I came up with. I topped it off with some "hinges" using the window punch and some kiwi kiss brads and one of favorites, Full of Life stamps. I think I am off to do another one, I wish I could use the stamp of the week set on this technique, but, I just dont think it is a bold enough image..... oh well.... happy stampin!

Trying out Brayer techniques

I just love the brayer techniques that Michelle Zindorf does. I have been trying and trying to get them just right, and usually cant, but these two are the best I have done so far! I really liked the way the first one came out, but my DS (13 yo) told me that it wasnt good enough because the sun set would be lower in the horizon. Arent kids great!!!?? So, I tried to move the second one to look like it was low in the hills but the deers face got a a lil green and well, the tree isnt as pretty.... Guess I am off to try some more...

Another Cool technique with the crop-a-dile

Not convinced yet? See my last crop-a-dial post here
Wanna get yours now, for only $29.95?

Tried-and-True Scrapbook Techniques to Keep Your Creativity Clicking Away

From :everything-about-scrapbooking

This series of scrapbook techniques will touch on tags, custom-made page toppers, sanding and hand-made embellishments to dress up your scrapbooking papers.

As a beginner, it's always a good thing to try out different ideas so that you know what you like, what works for you and what are the time-saving ideas you can recycle many times.

Scrapbook Techniques #1: Tags

Tags is one of the favorite embellishment ideas scrapbookers use on their scrapbooking pages.

Tags works wondrous as a page accent. It adds an interesting element to your page and it works like a "mini-canvas" for adding smaller photos, journaling, captions, page titles, decorative mats, thought bubbles and more.

You can easily cut out a tag using a template or draw one using freehand, and then make designs on the cut-out tag based on your needs and preferences.

Tags can come in various sizes, big, medium, small and in various shapes, oval, round, square or rectangle.

Besides using paper for tags, you can cut out fabric, wood, metal, specialty paper and other surfaces.

Pre-cut tags are also readily available at most craft or scrapbook stores.

To finish it off, attach the tag to your page with fibers, brads, staples or ribbons.

Read on for more free scrapbook ideas.

Scrapbook Techniques #2: Custom-Made Toppers

Turn your page title into interesting page toppers by handwriting your own page titles and adding designs to them!

Trust your steady hand to come up with nice page titles or if you want a helping hand, trace over a computer font. Then it's up to you to add flourishes to the page title using paint, colored pencils or chalks and turn it into a decorative page topper.

If you're using freehand to draw out your page title, remember to use a pencil to outline your letters first. Remember to leave enough space between the letters if you intend to use block letter or add some swirls.

Then add in any extra lines, designs or motifs to each letter. When you're done designing, trace over the letters with a journaling pen. Do correct as you go along and then let the ink dry.

Done? Then erase off all the pencil lines and fill in with your selected medium of colored pencils, chalks or paint.

Scrapbook Techniques #3: Sanding

Use sandpaper to rub, buff and scratch away and change the face of cardstock, patterned papers and embellishments.

This is a quick way to add interest, age, soften or dull the surface of your paper or embellishments.

Just remember to place the item you want to sand on a piece of white scrap paper. Because using colored paper, its tint might transfer to the item you're sanding.

Use your dominant hand to hold the sandpaper and the other hand to hold onto the piece of item you're sanding. Use short strokes to distress your item. A fine-grained sandpaper will give a distressed look while a coarse-grained paper with long strokes will give the item a scratched look.

Then use a piece of tissue to swipe away the gritty bits off the sanded item.

Scrapbook Techniques #4: Hand-Made Embellishments

If you want something unique, then you can look at creating your very own embellishment. It'll be one-of-a-kind piece of art.

Embellishments serve to enhance and add interest to your scrapbook pages. And there's abundance of embellishments such as stickers, ribbons, slides, metal frames, shaker boxes to more complex techniques of adding microbeads, rubber stamping, dry embossing and such.

The kind of embellishments you use really depend on your imagination and creativity.

Of course, you can always come up with your own handmade embellishment. It doesn't even have to be complex, sometimes simple ideas work the best.

If the idea of making your own embellishments appeals to you, keep a lookout for leftover beads, plastic flowers, laces, ribbons and so on from your other craft projects that you can use as materials for your embellishments. With handmade embellishments, you'll instantly add a great personal touch to your scrapbook pages. Plus, no one will have the same piece of embellishment as you.