Whether you just started scrapbooking, are a seasoned pro or just considering the hobby, sometimes, we all need a little mojo, a few ideas to get us started.
There are many different ways to organize your scrapbooks. You can create themed scrapbooks, chronological scrapbooks or event scrapbooks.
I use all three organizational methods in my scrapbooking. For example, my children each have a baby book, a sports scrapbook and a school years scrapbook. These are examples of themed albums, the entire album is related to s single theme, perhaps over several years. We have a Christmas album and an album which documents Halloween costumes through the years. I even have an event scrapbook which catalogs all of the roller coasters I have ever been on (using ad photos from the internet or brochures). When you get addicted to scrapbooking, you will scrap almost anything, trust me!
I use chronological scrapbooking to make a single-family album for each year. All the non-Holiday events go in this scrapbook, birthdays, trips to the park, amusement parks etc. There is no rhythm to these books other than they are in order of the way they happened and sometimes, just the order I scrapbooked them. There is no need to start from the beginning, start with today and when you have time and feel the mojo, or remember a story you want to tell, go back and add the pictures and stories from the past.
Event albums are similar to themed albums. I call it an event album when Its not likely to be repeated. For example an Album from a two-week vacation, what we did, where we went, who we were with, etc. It's not likely I will repeat these albums, another similar event will likely lead to another, individual scrapbook.
So, start looking through your pictures and get an idea for what story you want to tell.
If looking through your pictures doesn't help you get started, think about why you want to scrapbook. Do you want to scrap to remember? Do you want to tell a story? Are you creating a gift book for someone? How about a calendar, with a picture of your child during each season..
Some really simple things to start with:
Baby's first year
School Years
Sports
Vacations
Holidays
Traditions
Friends
Concerts you attended
Tribute album to your favorite relative.
What story do you want to tell? Who do you want to tell it to? If you still cant find a picture to stir up inspiration, start by telling the story. Try journaling on 3x5 index cards and find a photo to go with the story later. The important thing to remember is there are no rules or deadlines.
I hope this article starts your creative juices flowing.... So, what are you going to scrapbook about today? How about scrapping a page or two to tell your Stampin' Up story, how did you get started, who got you hooked?
Happy Scrapping!
Friday, May 8, 2009
Thursday, May 7, 2009
25 Uses for Crystal Effects
Here are some great tips and fun uses for Crystal Effects that I found on Scrapbooking.com:
Crystal Effects is also known as 3-D Crystal Lacquer. It is a water based lacquer that adds depth and texture to your hand stamped projects. Crystal Effects will appear "cloudy" as it is applied but it will dry to a crystal clear sheen. The favorite way stampers like to use this product is to apply it to areas where they would like a 3-D look or "raised effect" . . . whatever you apply it to will seem to j-u-m-p right off the paper. However, there are other fun and fabulous ways to use Crystal Effects and I've listed a few below but first let's get the basics down.
Tips for using Crystal Effects:
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* Use and store Crystal Effects at room temperature.
* Allow Crystal Effects to dry completely before handling. Thin coats will take only a few minutes but thicker coats may take a half hour or longer to dry completely. If you handle before it is dry you risk adding your fingerprints to your art work.
* To prevent bubbles, Crystal Effects should not be shaken.
* Prior to use, place the bottle upside down in a coffee cup, letting any air bubbles that might be in the bottle to raise to the top. This will keep bubbles from appearing in your finished project.
* Start by slowly applying the Crystal Effects and try to NOT pick the tip up off of the project until it is completely covered. Viola . . . no air bubbles. The key is to move slowly and do not lift tip from surface during application until you are finished. This way there are no air bubbles being “blown in” to your work. It may take you a little longer to get all of you work covered, but the outcome, is well worth it!
* The tip of the bottle may become clogged. To prevent this from happening place bottle upright on table and allow the Crystal Effects to drain back down into the bottle. Then you can use a piece of plastic coated wire (such as a straightened, plastic coated paper clip) to clear the tip of the bottle before you seal it. If the tip does become clogged, use a paper clip to open a pathway for the Crystal Effects to flow smoothly. Keep the paper clip attached to the bottle by wrapping a rubber band around the bottle and sticking paper clip in it. If you find your tip really clogged just unscrew the cap and rinse with warm water. Then dry and replace cap.
* To achieve a thicker coating of Crystal Effects apply several thin coats. If you try to apply it all at once you may cause the dye ink underneath to blur or "feather." Also, Crystal Effects is water based, so if too much is applied at once the paper may buckle.
*Do not use heat gun to speed dry time. It becomes extremely “bubbly” and unattractive.
Traditional Use of Crystal Effects:
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#1: Layer it on your projects to give a smooth glass-like finish.
Spot Gloss: Apply a thick layer of Crystal Effects directly to the stamped image with the applicator tip. Let dry completely (about 30 - 60 minutes) before handling.
All-Over Gloss: Use a paintbrush to apply a thin, even coat of Crystal Effects to the entire image. Let dry (about 3-5 minutes).
#2: Use the applicator tip to apply a thicker layer of Crystal Effects to "select elements" of your design to add emphasis. Apply a second or third coat if your first layer was not standing up off your paper enough to please you. Some ideas are to apply it to leaves, flower petals, insects, teacup, umbrella, window, eyeglasses, Christmas ornaments.
#3: Simulate dew on a petal by adding little droplets to flowers. You can also add it to the petals of actual dried flowers or fake plastic ones. This really does look like dew and you won't spend a fortune buying designers ones from stores.
#4: Highlight only special lines on an image such as the squiggle in the Sketch a Party or the Season's Sketches sets.
#5: Use Crystal Effects to outline your image. This provides the look of embossing without needing the heat gun. This looks especially inviting when used as "frosting" of a cake, like in the Sweet Treats or the Announcements set.
#6: Try applying the Crystal Effects in layers. By that I mean apply a thick line of Crystal Effects to the outline of your stamped image. Allow that to dry and then come back with a brush and apply a thinner coat of Crystal Effects to the inside area that you outlined. Allowing time to dry between applications will keep the areas from merging and will add depth and make the image look 3-D. You can also add a 3rd and 4th layer by applying a second coating to an area that has already dried. It will really make your images POP!
#7: It truly gives the look of glass and as such looks wonderful when used on glass items such as the light bulb in the Little Inspirations set or the Christmas lights in the Border Builders set . . . Makes the lights shine. Use Crystal Effects on the fish bowl in the Little Hellos stamp set or use it to create a faux glass "Bug Jar" and use one of the bug sets to stamp some bugs to go in the jar. (Very cute with the Cute as a Bug set.)
# 8: Experiment with different applicators to add textured patterns to your stamp art. Use a paintbrush to apply a thin coat and swirl the bristles to create small circles, half moons, or squiggles to achieve different results. (Think of those large portraits by Olan Mills. that have circles swirled over them to make them look like paintings). Use a stencil brush to dab on Crystal Effects for a rougher texture. Use a sponge to create a spackled look.
Other Fun and Fabulous Ideas for Use:
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#9: Use Crystal Effects to seal your shrink art pins. This creates dimension and provides a more exclusive look to your shrink art. This is the perfect way to seal your poly shrink wine charms while providing a great glassy finish.
#10: After applying Crystal Effects to an image, sprinkle a little Dazzling Diamonds glitter on top. This adds more dimensional sparkle than using other types of glue and looks great as candle flames, camp fires, etc.
#11: Create a dimensional paint. Add Crystal Effects to small containers you can find in the paint section of hobby stores and then add a drop or two of Stampin' Up! Classic re-inker and stir using a toothpick. Then apply color as desired to your stamped image allowing a few minutes drying time between colors so they won't blend. This provides truly beautiful results.
#12: Crystal Effects makes the perfect glue for any project!! Use it to attach your poly shrink plastic embellishments, beads, feathers, and bows. It is very strong, great for adding hard to hold magnets, pin backs, and wire to your stamped projects. Be sure to let it dry completely before handling.
#13: Use it to make flat marble magnets or bulletin board tacks. Purchase the glass marbles/pebbles that have a flat side to them in the floral section of craft stores. Then use the circle punch to create the perfect shape to place behind these see-through marbles. Stamp desired image on the card stock circle and color it in using the SU! Markers. Use Krylon Matte Acrylic or use the Krylon Workable Fixative to seal markers. Next, apply Crystal Effects to the flat marble and not to the stamped image. Then press the marble onto the stamped circle. If you don't have the Krylon to seal the markers, applying the Crystal Effects in this manner (to the marble instead of the stamped image) will keep the image colors from smearing. Apply a bit more Crystal Effects and then attach a magnet or push pin to it.
#14: Here's a twist on using it to make the flat, clear marble magnets . . .Trim small school photo to fit the back of the stone. Poor crystal effects directly onto the picture. Then adhere to the back of the stone. Let dry and then add magnet to the back for a refrigerator magnet of your little darlings.
#15: Use it to glue vellum to card stock. It won’t show through. I’ve found the best way to keep vellum from wrinkling or “popping up” after application of CE is to apply it with a fingertip or Q-tip applicator in a very thin coat . . . DO NOT apply it straight from the bottle.
#16: Make Glitter Gloss using Crystal Effects, Dazzling Diamonds or other ultra fine Glitter, and an old paint brush. This is really simple. Squirt out some Crystal Effects onto a scrap of acetate or other non-porous surface. Using a toothpick, stir in some glitter until you have the consistency you want. Then using a paintbrush, brush the glitter gloss onto your stamped art, stamped tiles, polymer beads, etc. When dry, it gives a glossy and sparkly look to your art. Try using this to add glitter to snowcaps made with liquid applique, add highlights to ornaments, Valentine hearts, etc. Anywhere that you want to add a bit of sparkles. You can also use this same homemade glitter gloss on hand painted ceramics and clothing.
#17: Make a Stained Glass Glitter Window. Stamp image on window sheets using Staz On. Allow a second or two to let it dry. Next, use the tip of the Crystal Effects bottle to move it (CE) around to cover each individual area with a thin layer of the CE. While it is still wet, dump on glitter. Only do one color of glitter at a time. let each area dry at least an hour before going to the next color.
#18: Use it for "fray check" on the ends of your ribbon after you have cut them to the desired length.
#19: Place on top of Radiant Pearls or Pearl Ex and get even more pearlescent shimmer and shine.
#20: Use Crystal Effects, stamped tissue paper and Dazzling Diamonds glitter to create beautiful, sparkling ornaments for Christmas or any special occasion.
# 21: Create "Shimmering Pearls" by adding a small amount of Pearl Ex powder to some Crystal Effects. Then apply over your stamp art with a brush.
#22: Add Crystal Effects to areas of images that you've dry embossed and achieve even more "pop"!
#23: Use it to re-glue any stamps that have either come unmounted from the foam or that you took off the wood block because you wanted to trim and re-mount.
#24: Use Crystal Effects to seal beaded pens. After you make your pen, set it into a block of Styrofoam. Let your pen cure (inserted into the Styrofoam) for 24 hours. Then dip the pen upside down into the bottle of crystal effects. Tip it right side up, and insert back into the Styrofoam to dry for another 24 hours. It works like a charm sealing the pen so that he beads won't fall off.
#25: Use Crystal Effects to seal Domino art when you've used chalks or Pearl Ex to color in your image. The Crystal Effects creates a wonderful thick sheen when applied in more than one coat. Or you can use it as a sort of Modge Podge to attach a stamped tissue paper design to the Domino (similar to the candle/tissue paper technique or the glittery glass bulbs technique.)
Try Crystal Effects Now for only $5.25 (regularly $6.25) and free shipping (regularly $6.95) or Make a $25.00 purchase here and get crystal effects on me!
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Top 10 Scrapbooking Tools
In recognition of National Scrapbooking month, I wanted to give a shout out to some of my favorite scrapbooking tools. Also, to help you get started on your scrapbooking venture or to add to your stash, I am offering a 10% discount on all my favorite scrapbooking tools!!
1. Big Shot Die-Cut Machine - what could be better than a portable machine that cuts all your favorite shapes?
2. Stampin' Up! Top Note die - this is my favorite, most used die! I use this on many scrapbook pages, almost all my cards and even to make those adoreable little faux alligator skin purses.
3. Brayer - I love my brayer and use it every day. I use it to help adhere paper and photos to my layouts with out getting glue on my hands, I use it to help crease paper on my cards, I use it for certain ink techniques, to make bacgrounds and for uniform inking on my large stamps, what a versatile tool!
4. Bone Folder - Such a simple little tool, but I couldnt live without it - get the perfect crease everytime and it scores beautifully when I use it with my paper cutter.
5. Paper Cutter - Everyone needs a trusty paper cutter
6. Crop-a-dial - Remember having to wait until everyone woke up in the morning to set your eyelets? The crop a dial is such a versatile tool, it punches through chipboard, many paper layers, I have even used it to punch holes in a cooke sheet! The best part is that its silent! Its an easy, tool to replace several sizes of eyelet setters, your hammer and your hole punch!
7. Stamp-a-ma-jig - Precise Stamp alignment every time!
8.Versa-mark - My favorite stamping technique is coloring book, I love versamark ink for stamping my images because it dries fast and doesnt smear or smudge!
9. Powder Pals - I love to emboss! I love the beautiful crisp image that clear embossing powder brings out in an image! Of course, the embossing powder can get messy, but with powder pals, you can easily clean up and save your powder, nothing goes to waste!
10. Cutter Kit - This convenient and portable cutter kit is perfect for paper-crafting on-the-go. The kit includes rotary cutter, perforating tool and scoring tool as well as a 7-sided distressing tool, its pefect to throw in your purse or bag and take on a road trip!
Want to get some of these fab tools?
1. Big Shot Die-Cut Machine - what could be better than a portable machine that cuts all your favorite shapes?
2. Stampin' Up! Top Note die - this is my favorite, most used die! I use this on many scrapbook pages, almost all my cards and even to make those adoreable little faux alligator skin purses.
3. Brayer - I love my brayer and use it every day. I use it to help adhere paper and photos to my layouts with out getting glue on my hands, I use it to help crease paper on my cards, I use it for certain ink techniques, to make bacgrounds and for uniform inking on my large stamps, what a versatile tool!
4. Bone Folder - Such a simple little tool, but I couldnt live without it - get the perfect crease everytime and it scores beautifully when I use it with my paper cutter.
5. Paper Cutter - Everyone needs a trusty paper cutter
6. Crop-a-dial - Remember having to wait until everyone woke up in the morning to set your eyelets? The crop a dial is such a versatile tool, it punches through chipboard, many paper layers, I have even used it to punch holes in a cooke sheet! The best part is that its silent! Its an easy, tool to replace several sizes of eyelet setters, your hammer and your hole punch!
7. Stamp-a-ma-jig - Precise Stamp alignment every time!
8.Versa-mark - My favorite stamping technique is coloring book, I love versamark ink for stamping my images because it dries fast and doesnt smear or smudge!
9. Powder Pals - I love to emboss! I love the beautiful crisp image that clear embossing powder brings out in an image! Of course, the embossing powder can get messy, but with powder pals, you can easily clean up and save your powder, nothing goes to waste!
10. Cutter Kit - This convenient and portable cutter kit is perfect for paper-crafting on-the-go. The kit includes rotary cutter, perforating tool and scoring tool as well as a 7-sided distressing tool, its pefect to throw in your purse or bag and take on a road trip!
Want to get some of these fab tools?
Check out these paper bouquets
Check out these beautiful paper bouquets made by my amazing associate Linda McClain, I am so amazed by her talent every day! For more information on Linda, or these beautiful paper flowers, check out her
Blog
Monday, May 4, 2009
SU Scrapbooking
Yesterday was the 2nd anniversary of my grandmother's death. I grieved grately when she passed and again this year, on her anniversary. She was my Angel in life and I still believe her to be my angel. RIP Grandmom!
I used SU Simply Scrappin Sweet Nothings, Close as a memory stamp set, Fifth Avenue floral, copic markers and some old chipboard I had laying around, but the SU stuff would work just as well...
Stampin' Jargon
card making & Scrapbooking terms
Below are a few terms, that you may or may not know. Links to tutorials or articles using these terms or demonstrating these tools are included.
Acid Free - Anything that is acid free is perfect for card making and scrap booking as it will not deteriorate or discolour. Acid free is simply a product that is manufactured free of acid.
Embellishment - Any scrapbooking supplies that enhance the pages. (e.g. Brads, Eyelets, Fibres, Charms etc)
Iris Folding - A technique where strips of paper are folded and overlapped to create a background in an aperture card. Iris Folding Crafters
Hand Tinting (Also photo tinting) - A method of applying colour to a black and white photograph. Hand Tinting Tutorial
Quilling - A technique where you roll strips of paper into various shapes.
Quilling Instructions
Below are a few terms, that you may or may not know. Links to tutorials or articles using these terms or demonstrating these tools are included.
Acid Free - Anything that is acid free is perfect for card making and scrap booking as it will not deteriorate or discolour. Acid free is simply a product that is manufactured free of acid.
Embellishment - Any scrapbooking supplies that enhance the pages. (e.g. Brads, Eyelets, Fibres, Charms etc)
Iris Folding - A technique where strips of paper are folded and overlapped to create a background in an aperture card. Iris Folding Crafters
Hand Tinting (Also photo tinting) - A method of applying colour to a black and white photograph. Hand Tinting Tutorial
Quilling - A technique where you roll strips of paper into various shapes.
Quilling Instructions
Saturday, May 2, 2009
And the Winner is:
Ok Ladies, I did a very scientific method to draw these!!! (My 8 year old picked)
We have more than one winner!!!!!
THe WInner of the SU Blog Candy is:
Hi and nice candy. I went to your friend's blog and signed up there too. I do follow, but no blog here. Your site is very useful for me! ty for the tips! Cher
hilly77@comcast.net
Cher, please contact me with your address, so I can get your candy in the mail, CONGRATS!!!
The rest of you get 10% off your next SU order using code Blog Candy. So just hop on over to SU and pick out what you want, send me an email with the items and I will send you an invoice for 10% off...
Happy Scrappin & Stamping!
We have more than one winner!!!!!
THe WInner of the SU Blog Candy is:
Hi and nice candy. I went to your friend's blog and signed up there too. I do follow, but no blog here. Your site is very useful for me! ty for the tips! Cher
hilly77@comcast.net
Cher, please contact me with your address, so I can get your candy in the mail, CONGRATS!!!
The rest of you get 10% off your next SU order using code Blog Candy. So just hop on over to SU and pick out what you want, send me an email with the items and I will send you an invoice for 10% off...
Happy Scrappin & Stamping!
Stampin' Up! Scrapbooking Promotion
Today, May 1st, marks the beginning of National Scrapbooking Month and Stampin' Up! is ready to celebrate with the following three special offers. (Offers runs through until the end of May)
Time to stock up on Stampin' Up!'s gorgeous Designer Series Paper, Designer Specialty Paper, and Textured cardstock. Buy any three packages and get one free! (This does not include Taste of Textiles.)
Join my team by choosing a limited-time Scrapbooking Starter Kit for just $75. As a demonstrator, you will get regular discounts, benefits, and extra income! Click here for contents of the $75 kit and full details!
Enjoy a sneak peek opportunity to purchase the Jumble Alphabet stamp set (set of 52) from the upcoming Fall/Winter Catalog at a 20% discount.
#115199 Jumble Alphabet stamp set SALE $35.16
Please note: When you place an order on-line, add your qualifying product (three packs of Designer Series paper and/or 12" x 12" textured card stock) to your shopping bag. When you check out, you need to click a link in the Special Offers section that will bring up a pop-up window directing you to choose a free pack of paper.
To Place Your Order for Stampin' Up! Products On-Line 24/7,
HERE
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Join Stampin’ Up!® in celebrating National Scrapbooking Month with three great offers!
THESE OFFERS END SOON! CONTACT ME TODAY TO LEARN MORE OR TO PLACE YOUR ORDER.
angi89@yahoo.com
1) Buy three packs of Designer Series paper—including Specialty Designer Series
paper—or 12" x 12" textured card stock and get one FREE!*
2) Become a demonstrator for only $75 with the limited-time, scrapbooking Starter Kit!
Click Here to sign up now Use password angia
3) Buy the new Jumble Alphabet stamp set—a sneak peek from the upcoming 2009-2010 Idea Book & Catalog—at 20% off!
With so many great offers to choose from, your scrapbooking possibilities are endless!
Set of 52 (double-mounted) • item 115199 • Sale $35.16 | Reg. $43.95
*Mix and match your packs of paper
angi89@yahoo.com
1) Buy three packs of Designer Series paper—including Specialty Designer Series
paper—or 12" x 12" textured card stock and get one FREE!*
2) Become a demonstrator for only $75 with the limited-time, scrapbooking Starter Kit!
Click Here to sign up now Use password angia
3) Buy the new Jumble Alphabet stamp set—a sneak peek from the upcoming 2009-2010 Idea Book & Catalog—at 20% off!
With so many great offers to choose from, your scrapbooking possibilities are endless!
Set of 52 (double-mounted) • item 115199 • Sale $35.16 | Reg. $43.95
*Mix and match your packs of paper
Monday, April 27, 2009
CC165
Here is my Chat and challenge from Sudsol tonight, cute sketch, threw this together really fast.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Sayings Sunday
Here are some great sayings for your cards and scrapbooks this month and next:
Who so loves, believes the impossible - Elizabeth Barrett Browning
Father Knows Best
A father is a man you look up to no matter how tall you grow
May all your weeds be wildflowers
To love someone deeply, gives you strength. Being loved by someone deeply gives you courage - Lao Tzu
The Fireworks begin today. Each diploma is a lighted match, each one of you is a fuse - Ed Koch
Remember that happiness is a way of travel, not a destination - Roy Goodman
Who so loves, believes the impossible - Elizabeth Barrett Browning
Father Knows Best
A father is a man you look up to no matter how tall you grow
May all your weeds be wildflowers
To love someone deeply, gives you strength. Being loved by someone deeply gives you courage - Lao Tzu
The Fireworks begin today. Each diploma is a lighted match, each one of you is a fuse - Ed Koch
Remember that happiness is a way of travel, not a destination - Roy Goodman
More Give Aways!!!
My friend Jacquie has lost her mojo and wants to give away lots of neat stuff to try and get it back.. This is one of several pictures full of stuff she is giving away on May 2nd. Check it out Here and be sure to mention that Angi sent you and then come back here and leave a comment to tell me about it and you will get an entry into both her RAK and another entry in my blog candy, how sweet is that?
Sayings Sunday
Some Sayings and quotes to use on your scrapbook pages and cards over the next few months:
A successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always with the same person - Mignon McLaughlin
THe one I laugh with, live for, dream with, love
THe heart of a mother is a deep abyss, at the bottom of which you know you'll always find happines - Honore de Balzac
The great thing in the world is not so much where we stand, as in what direction we are moving - Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr
The talent of success is nothing more than doing what you can do well and doing well whatever you do - henry wadsworth longfellow
A mother is someone you never outgrow
The first and greatest commandment is, dont let them scare you - Elmer Davis
Excellence is not a skill. It is an attitude - Ralph Marston
The future depends on what we do in the present - Mahatma Gandhi
It is not flesh and blood but the heart which makes fathers and sons - Johann Schiller
A successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always with the same person - Mignon McLaughlin
THe one I laugh with, live for, dream with, love
THe heart of a mother is a deep abyss, at the bottom of which you know you'll always find happines - Honore de Balzac
The great thing in the world is not so much where we stand, as in what direction we are moving - Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr
The talent of success is nothing more than doing what you can do well and doing well whatever you do - henry wadsworth longfellow
A mother is someone you never outgrow
The first and greatest commandment is, dont let them scare you - Elmer Davis
Excellence is not a skill. It is an attitude - Ralph Marston
The future depends on what we do in the present - Mahatma Gandhi
It is not flesh and blood but the heart which makes fathers and sons - Johann Schiller
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Blog Candy
Only 8 more days left to enter a chance for this blog candy..... to sweeten the deal just a little bit, I want you to bring a friend back next time, for every friend who mentions your name and signs up for my newsletter.... (have the link with your address so I can reach you) I will add you in three more entries for this fantastic SU Product..... Good Luck!!!
This just in!!!!! Add a post on your blog telling all your friends about my blog candy and you will get another entry! There are lots of ways to get this great candy!
1. Leave a comment on my blog candy post (one per day)
2. Sign up for my newsletter
3. Sign up to follow my blog
4. Tell a friend and have them mention your name
5. Post an addy on your own blog, with a link here and come back here to tell show it to me
6. Visit my friend Jacquie's RAK give away and leave a comment, then come back here to tell me you did so
7. Host a workship in a bag
8. Sign up for a class-to -go kit
Lots of ways to win this great-fat-free blog candy!
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Craft Critique Picks the Big Kick by Sizzix - get $30.00 off TODAY!
The Big Shot is a bit larger machine, and takes up a footprint of 14" X 9-1/2" (including the handle). It weighs 8 lbs and can be used on any kind of surface, from a table top, to a tablecloth, or even carpet. The suggested retail price is $99.00 directly from Sizzix, and for the same price, Stampin' Up! now carries the Big Shot as well.
If you are using a traditional Sizzix "Bigz" die, which is about 1/2" thick, you only need the two clear cutting mats that come with the machine to make your die-cutting "sandwich". These will also cut through cardstock, felt, fabric, foam, magnet, leather, craft aluminum, and many other materials.
Additionally, Sizzix got smart and made the "Multi-Purpose Platform" ($19.99) to use with your dies.
I did not realize how much I was missing this until I purchased my machine from Stampin' Up!. Basically, it takes the place of the multiple plates required for cutting the wafer thin dies (like the Sizzlits) or dies from other manufacturers (like Spellbinders "Nestabilities"). In essence, the Multi-Purpose Platform is made up of plastic pages which you can flip over to use, or to move out of the way, depending on what die you are using or whether you want to emboss. AND, the reason I love it: the instructions are written right on each plate for which ones to use for different dies and different applications. You only have to keep track of the machine, the basic cutting plates, and the Multi-Purpose Platform. You don't need to keep track of other plates or rubber mats and paper manuals. Like I said, I did not realize how great a feature this was until I got my Big Shot and started using it.
The machine is heavy enough that it is very stable while you are cutting. It has a handle that turns easily to pass the die-cut platform through. There is a handle built into the top which makes it very easy to carry.
There is also a "doctor's bag" made to carry the machine and some dies if you are going to a crop. (SU also sells this carrying case.)
And, Stampin' Up! has commissioned some exclusive dies that match some of their stamp set designs. This is a nice touch, to be able to use die cuts and stamped images that coordinate.
My complaint about the Big Shot?
It is truly hard for me to come up with one, but I would say that it takes up a relatively larger footprint on your table or shelves for storage.
To read the entire craft critique article Click Here
Save up to $30.00 NOW
Want to buy your Big Shot Now??? Order your Big Shot from me, before May 15, 2009 and save up to $30.00!
Order your Big Shot (includes standard cutting pad and multipurpose platform) Now for only $89.95 + S/H
Order your Big Shot Starter Kit (A $205.65 retail value) for only $175.95
- Big Shot
- Standard Cutting Pad
- Multi-purpose cutting form
- 2 Stampin Up Exclusive Bigz Dies (Scallop Envelope and Top Note (My Fav!)
- 1 Stampin Up Exclusive Decorative Strip (Billboard)
- 1 Stampin Up Exclusive 4 pack of sizzlits (Birds and Blooms)
- Decorative Strip Cutting Pads
- Extended Spacer Platform
Order your Big Shot Starter Kit with Doctor's bag for only $229.95 (Retail cost of bag $69.95)
The Big Shot works with ALL competitive dies, and the steel rule dies can cut through an impressive list of 50 different materials, including fabric, foil, and chipboard.
See a video about the Big ShotHERE
Hurry, this offer ends May 15th!
Blog Candy!!!
Wanna win some Blog Candy from SU's retired Sale-a-Bration catalog? How aboout 16 sheets of double-sided delicate dots designer series paper, 2 spools of coordinating ribbon (20 yards total), a brand new set of (4) Stamps (Polka Dot Punches set)and some cute little coordinating embellies?????
All you have to do is enter a comment here, on my blog for an entry before the end of the month. But wait, You can get an additional entry for every comment you enter (one per day please) between now and May 1st. There's more! If you sign up for my newsletter, sign up, or enter your name to follow my blog you can get another entry! If you do both, of course, you get 2 entries!
Finally, if you sign up for one of my classes, either in person or the kit to go option, you can get an additional entry. Look for more great class postings soon!
Hurry, this blog candy will be given away on May 1st! Good Luck!
Friday, April 17, 2009
All ABout Inks: (What do the different types of Ink do?)
There are lots of ink options available and the various selections can be overwhelming to a beginner or even a seasoned paper crafter.
Waterbased Inks (Most Common). They should be acid free (if you are scrapbooking) and they are great for general stamping. I have found that you get what you pay for with these. There are some really inexpensive options out there at craft stores and other retailers, but, I find if you pay for the better quality ink, it will provide a better image and last longer. (I have heard of SU demos that have used the same ink pads for upwards of 4 years with out re-inking) I simply dont believe a cheap ink pad will last long (they tend to dry up fast)or give you teh same quality as the ink that specifically created for creative stamping (like the inks offered by Stampin' Up!)
Dye Based Archival Ink....this is waterproof, non smearing ink. It is great for scrapbooking.
Pigment inks are water based and formulated to stamp on absorbent papers. Ideal for embossing on coated or nonabsorbent papers because they are slow drying which also gives them a long shelf life.
Craft Ink....generally a thicker ink, may have to be heat set to get it to dry quickly. These inks provide a very rich color.
Distress Inks...these are the ones that have Tim's Holtz's name on them. They are alcohol based and are GREAT for doing techniques and inking edges. They don't stamp well because they dry much too quickly. I find other alchol inks are great for coloring book style images, they provide great color and dry fast, so you avoid smudging. (I use copic markers, but I guess I shouldnt say that ;)
Staz On....is great for porous or glossy surfaces. Comes in a huge range of colours. It is awesome on acrylic albums, transparencies, glass, glossy paper and so on. I actually enjoy stamping my coloring book images with this ink because it does dry quickly and doesnt smear as much as the water or craft inks.
Versamark....is a watermark ink. This can be used for embossing, chalk popping, stamping if you just want a very subtle tone on tone look. I love to use the versamark ink to use my stamps to create custom scrapbook paper in any image, easily matched to the color I am working with because the ink takes on the color of its paper.
Fluid Chalk Inks share the resilience of pigment ink but stamp & blend like dye ink, drying quickly on absorbent surfaces. Permanent when heat set, they resist smearing, bleeding & fading even when air dried. They give a very flat, muted finished surface - These inks are becoming increasingly popular, personally, I have not used them very much.
With so many ink options out there, it can be hard to find just the type you need, especially if your crafting is not limited to one style.
I recommend you start with a basic black in each style and some markers. This way you can check out the qualities of each type of ink, in black, before you buy one of each color. Markers are an inexpensive option to color all of your images, you can color direct to the stamp or you can stamp in black and color your images to suit your tastes.
For more information, or personal instructional workshops on stamping or scrapbooking, please contact me at angi89@yahoo.com or
visit my business site to book a workshop
Waterbased Inks (Most Common). They should be acid free (if you are scrapbooking) and they are great for general stamping. I have found that you get what you pay for with these. There are some really inexpensive options out there at craft stores and other retailers, but, I find if you pay for the better quality ink, it will provide a better image and last longer. (I have heard of SU demos that have used the same ink pads for upwards of 4 years with out re-inking) I simply dont believe a cheap ink pad will last long (they tend to dry up fast)or give you teh same quality as the ink that specifically created for creative stamping (like the inks offered by Stampin' Up!)
Dye Based Archival Ink....this is waterproof, non smearing ink. It is great for scrapbooking.
Pigment inks are water based and formulated to stamp on absorbent papers. Ideal for embossing on coated or nonabsorbent papers because they are slow drying which also gives them a long shelf life.
Craft Ink....generally a thicker ink, may have to be heat set to get it to dry quickly. These inks provide a very rich color.
Distress Inks...these are the ones that have Tim's Holtz's name on them. They are alcohol based and are GREAT for doing techniques and inking edges. They don't stamp well because they dry much too quickly. I find other alchol inks are great for coloring book style images, they provide great color and dry fast, so you avoid smudging. (I use copic markers, but I guess I shouldnt say that ;)
Staz On....is great for porous or glossy surfaces. Comes in a huge range of colours. It is awesome on acrylic albums, transparencies, glass, glossy paper and so on. I actually enjoy stamping my coloring book images with this ink because it does dry quickly and doesnt smear as much as the water or craft inks.
Versamark....is a watermark ink. This can be used for embossing, chalk popping, stamping if you just want a very subtle tone on tone look. I love to use the versamark ink to use my stamps to create custom scrapbook paper in any image, easily matched to the color I am working with because the ink takes on the color of its paper.
Fluid Chalk Inks share the resilience of pigment ink but stamp & blend like dye ink, drying quickly on absorbent surfaces. Permanent when heat set, they resist smearing, bleeding & fading even when air dried. They give a very flat, muted finished surface - These inks are becoming increasingly popular, personally, I have not used them very much.
With so many ink options out there, it can be hard to find just the type you need, especially if your crafting is not limited to one style.
I recommend you start with a basic black in each style and some markers. This way you can check out the qualities of each type of ink, in black, before you buy one of each color. Markers are an inexpensive option to color all of your images, you can color direct to the stamp or you can stamp in black and color your images to suit your tastes.
For more information, or personal instructional workshops on stamping or scrapbooking, please contact me at angi89@yahoo.com or
visit my business site to book a workshop
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Scrapbook and/or Stamping Clubs forming now!!
*Want to earn a FREE STAMP SET and at least $15.00 to spend on any item in the Stampin’ Up! Catalog?
*Want to learn more stamping techniques to “WOW” your friends?
*Don’t want to host your own workshop?
*Want to gradually build up your Stampin’ Up! supplies without spending too much?
*Want to escape for a girls’ night out once a month and make some really special friends?
______________________________
*Come along to a FREE MONTHLY CLASS and simply commit to spending $15 each month for a 12 month period (along with 5-11 other members)
*Each month one club member will take a turn to choose & keep the hostess benefits for that month’s sales.
*If you are interested in joining my Scrap and Stamp club then please contact me at 302-670-7980 or email me at angi89@yahoo.com
YOU MAY EVEN LIKE TO GET YOUR OWN GROUP OF 6-12 FRIENDS TOGETHER … AND USE THIS TIME AS AN EXCUSE TO GET TOGETHER ONCE A MONTH TO HAVE A GIRLS NIGHT OUT…
HERE’S HOW IT WORKS …
*This club will have 6-12 members
*I will be running a FREE technique class (1 - 1 1/2 hrs) for JUST club members once a month
*Each month we will learn a new stamping technique & will create 1 - 2 cards using this technique (depending on difficulty) or a scrapbook page (your choice of cards or scrapbook page)
*There is NO COST to attend the class … BUT each member must commit to buying $15 worth of Stampin’ Up! product each month. (not including shipping)
HERE’S THE BEST BIT …
*Each club member will take a turn to host the the class at her home on any date and time that meets her needs. She will also get the host benefits for that month- once each during the 12 months that the club is running. That means you will *Receive a FREE level 1 hostess stamp set & at least $15 of FREE product!
*The first hostess will be the first hostess to join up! the order of subsequent hostesses will be drawn at random.
*If you choose to spend $100+ (product) on a single order - you will also get to choose ONE FREE classic stamp pad to add to your order
*Take advantage of Club Specials each month
*Build up your Stampin’ Up! products gradually without great expense!
WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE PART OF THE CLUB? …
Contact me at angi89@yahoo.com or Phone: 302-670-7980 if would like to book a spot in the next class or if you want to start a club of your own friends.
free forms
Hope to see you at Stamp Club soon!
Stampin’ Hugs,
angi
*Want to learn more stamping techniques to “WOW” your friends?
*Don’t want to host your own workshop?
*Want to gradually build up your Stampin’ Up! supplies without spending too much?
*Want to escape for a girls’ night out once a month and make some really special friends?
______________________________
*Come along to a FREE MONTHLY CLASS and simply commit to spending $15 each month for a 12 month period (along with 5-11 other members)
*Each month one club member will take a turn to choose & keep the hostess benefits for that month’s sales.
*If you are interested in joining my Scrap and Stamp club then please contact me at 302-670-7980 or email me at angi89@yahoo.com
YOU MAY EVEN LIKE TO GET YOUR OWN GROUP OF 6-12 FRIENDS TOGETHER … AND USE THIS TIME AS AN EXCUSE TO GET TOGETHER ONCE A MONTH TO HAVE A GIRLS NIGHT OUT…
HERE’S HOW IT WORKS …
*This club will have 6-12 members
*I will be running a FREE technique class (1 - 1 1/2 hrs) for JUST club members once a month
*Each month we will learn a new stamping technique & will create 1 - 2 cards using this technique (depending on difficulty) or a scrapbook page (your choice of cards or scrapbook page)
*There is NO COST to attend the class … BUT each member must commit to buying $15 worth of Stampin’ Up! product each month. (not including shipping)
HERE’S THE BEST BIT …
*Each club member will take a turn to host the the class at her home on any date and time that meets her needs. She will also get the host benefits for that month- once each during the 12 months that the club is running. That means you will *Receive a FREE level 1 hostess stamp set & at least $15 of FREE product!
*The first hostess will be the first hostess to join up! the order of subsequent hostesses will be drawn at random.
*If you choose to spend $100+ (product) on a single order - you will also get to choose ONE FREE classic stamp pad to add to your order
*Take advantage of Club Specials each month
*Build up your Stampin’ Up! products gradually without great expense!
WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE PART OF THE CLUB? …
Contact me at angi89@yahoo.com or Phone: 302-670-7980 if would like to book a spot in the next class or if you want to start a club of your own friends.
free forms
Hope to see you at Stamp Club soon!
Stampin’ Hugs,
angi
Monday, April 13, 2009
Earn Free Stamps!!!
Get connected with friends and family by making gorgeous cards and gifts using products from the *NEW* Occasions Mini Catalogue. From now through April 30th, you can choose one item from the "Under $12" page (p. 208) in the Spring & Summer Idea Book and Catalogue for FREE when you buy $50 in products from the Occasions Mini Catalogue OR host a workshop with sales totaling $200 or more.
What can you choose from?
Item Description Retail Price
116209 Note of Thanks Mini Note Kit $11.95
116210
Birthdays Count Mini Note Kit $11.95
114494 Forever single stamp $6.95
114492 Beautiful Baby single stamp $9.50
114486 Birthday Wish single stamp $8.25
114490 Glad Friends single stamp $6.95
114498 Flowers in Silhouette single stamp $9.50
114496 Celebrations single stamp $9.50
114484 Elegant Thank You single stamp $8.25
114504 Merci bien single stamp $8.25
114488 Fun Flowers single stamp $6.95
What can you choose from?
Item Description Retail Price
116209 Note of Thanks Mini Note Kit $11.95
116210
Birthdays Count Mini Note Kit $11.95
114494 Forever single stamp $6.95
114492 Beautiful Baby single stamp $9.50
114486 Birthday Wish single stamp $8.25
114490 Glad Friends single stamp $6.95
114498 Flowers in Silhouette single stamp $9.50
114496 Celebrations single stamp $9.50
114484 Elegant Thank You single stamp $8.25
114504 Merci bien single stamp $8.25
114488 Fun Flowers single stamp $6.95
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