365 Days of Memories

Just 15 Minutes

2011-01-01T10:08:00.000-05:00

Sometimes we get so caught up in creating a “perfect” layout that we forget to just have fun with it. What if you sat down with a story you loved and a photo you loved and some products you loved and just created a page, not worrying about design, your handwriting, getting a great title, or anything else?

What if you scrapbooked just for the fun of it?

Keep It Simple

2010-09-18T16:56:00.000-04:00

PhotoShop Alternative

2010-04-15T20:10:00.000-04:00

There comes a time in every business owner’s life when they need to edit or create a graphic. For many of the basics, you don’t need the latest version of PhotoShop or one of the more complicated programs. If you don’t want to spend big bucks to crop and edit an image or are just beginning to work with graphics, you may want to download GIMP. GIMP is FREE and can grow with you as your skills or needs grow. You can find out more about GIMP, its features,capabilities, and tutorials.

Sunday Scrappin' #15

2010-02-28T11:29:00.002-05:00

Ta Da:
I created an album for my daughter (and got it scanned).

To Do:

Work on mini album for my friend, Marcy.
Work on mini album for my (boy)friend, Alan.
Work on cards for Card Club.

To Join:
Meet the rest of the gang who like to do paper crafts at Sunday Scrappin'.

Color

2010-02-27T10:02:00.001-05:00

Isn't all this color fun to look at? This is my cardstock and it is organized in Roy G Biv order with specialty papers at the end (right).

Creative Thought o the Day - 2/18/10

2010-02-18T11:28:00.000-05:00

Handmade with love from me to you,
I sprinkle warmth and caring into the glue.
With theses things holding it together --
Just like our friendship --
It will last through any weather.

Creative Thought o the Day - 1/30/10

2010-01-30T10:07:00.000-05:00

Words and pictures can work togther to communicate more powerfully than either alone.

~~ William Allard ~~

Tackle the Mess

2010-01-16T16:49:00.000-05:00

Let's get moving on making our crafting/scrapbooking spaces work more for us than against us! Some tips from Scrapjazz.

365 Days of Photos

2010-01-09T17:34:00.000-05:00

I've been wanting to do this project for several years now and I am determined this year to actually follow through on this project.

Check out my new blog, 365 Days of Photos, to see a new photo each day that represents me and my life.

Creative Thought of the Day - 9/18/09

2009-09-18T19:41:00.001-04:00

Allow that creation to be a creation. It's not a measure of your talent. It has naught to do with your worth.
~~ Angi Sullins ~~

Freebie of the Month - August

2009-08-14T17:07:00.002-04:00

Look what Cindy is giving away -- Lunchbox Notes, Tags, and Stickers. Download by going to Once Upon a Holiday.

Creative Thought of the Day - 7/31/09

2009-07-31T10:00:00.001-04:00

Inspiration is not just some flight of fancy. It is the air you breathe; the water you gulp down when you are thirsty; the bread that fills your belly. The process and products of your creative work will feed your soul, if you let them.
~~ Molly Anderson-Childers ~~

Craft Night

2009-07-25T19:28:00.003-04:00

Starting this past March the Craft & Hobby Association is challenging individuals and families to take the Craft Night Pledge of crafting one night a week with your friends and family. By participating in just one craft per week, people can enjoy the financial and social as well as the emotional and extrinsic benefits of crafting - including a sense of accomplishment, memory keeping, relaxation, and spending time with family and friends.

CHA developed the Craft Night Pledge to support individuals and families in this regard CHA also has provided a Flickr site where you can share your inspiring crafting photos.

Creative Thought of the Day - 7/22/09

2009-07-22T19:57:00.001-04:00

For me, art (specifically scrapbooking) is the excitement of the hidden, the unseen, the unknown -- always there waiting to be discovered.

Creative Thought of the Day - 7/15/09

2009-07-15T11:06:00.000-04:00

It is hard to get too carried away with yourself as an artist when you’re picking up dog poop in the backyard.
~~ Loren Long ~~

Creative Thought of the Day - 7/10/09

2009-07-10T15:44:00.004-04:00

A woman who works with her hands is a laborer.
A woman who works with her hands and head is a craftsman.
A woman who works with her hands, head, and heart is an artist.
~~ Author Unknown ~~

AD: Memory Works Offers Two Consultant Levels

2009-06-25T11:08:00.001-04:00

Memory Works is excited to announce that we have expanded our current business opportunity, and now offer two consultant level options. New consultants now have the option to sign up as a Basic Consultant or a Premium Consultant. During this economic downturn Memory Works wanted to provide our consultant program to a broad range of scrapbookers at an affordable price...and our new Basic Program does exactly that. Please refer to the chart below which shows the comparison between our Basic and Premium Levels.

Please note that if you signed up as a consultant during our previous program, you are now considered a Premium Consultant and will continue to receive the same benefits!

Basic Consultant Level
As a Basic Consultant you have access to the Memory Works program and all the benefits of being a consultant. This level doesn't include the consultant start up kit, but allows for individuals to build their business at their own pace with the opportunity to purchase business supplies when the time is right. Please note that there is no yearly minimum sales requirements, however you will be charged $20 per year to remain a Basic Consultant.

Premium Consultant Level
As a Premium Consultant you will receive everything that you need to start your business opportunity with Memory Works including our New Consultant Kit. The New Consultant Kit includes Start up folder, Memory Works Tote, Order Forms, Catalogs, Memory Works Pens, Mouse Pad, and a Memory Works Button. Please note that you will not be charged an annual fee, but have a $75 per year minimum sales requirement.

Chocolate Titles

2009-06-25T10:31:00.004-04:00

Click the link here and make your own chocolate name for a tag or make a title for a scrapbook layout.

You can type in whatever you want and print it out as one line for a title.

Seasonal Paper-Piecing Patterns

2009-06-24T10:51:00.003-04:00

Scrapbooker Vicki Boutin designed these exclusive paper-piecing patterns you can use to dress up your scrapbook pages, cards, gift tags, and other paper projects all year long. Check out the FREE seasonal scrapbooking paper-piecing patterns and create your own versions.

Card Inspiration

2009-06-19T10:54:00.004-04:00

As you know, a few months ago I whipped up a batch of birthday cards and all-occasion cards, so I will always have a greeting card available. This time-saving trick has worked so well for me.

For some card inspiration, you will find tons online :
Birthday cards
All-occasion cards
Thank you cards
Wedding cards
Party invitations
Graduation cards
Everyday cards from scraps
Digital photo card templates
Collage card templates

Happy scrapping!

Scrapbook for Box Tops

2009-05-24T19:29:00.003-04:00

Get FREE Scrapbook Embellishments!

I am helping my children collect the Box Tops 4 Education box tops for their school. Send us your box tops and we will send you some FREE scrapbook embellishments! The kids will turn them in to their school to be redeemed for items the school needs to help the kids get the best education possible. Get free scrapbook embellishments, help a school, and encourage a child! Wow! Doesn't get any better than that!

At my children's elementary school they collect the tabs off of certain brands of food and other household products. Many of us use these products and I am asking if you'd please help us out in collecting these labels. Kimberly Clark, Huggies, Kotex, and Depend all have recently joined this program. We all need this stuff anyway, so go ahead and buy the stuff and save those box tops.

To help our school, go shopping, clip those labels, then send us the box tops. Email me for the address and I will send you items from the list below. You can pick your preference but there is no guarantee that is what you will receive.

Scrapbook Embellishment List
Stickers, fiber, ribbon, die cuts, brads, eyelets, paper piecing patterns, buttons, ATCs, silk flowers, paper flowers, and more. All acid-free and from a smoke-free home.

Box Tops 4 Education
https://www.boxtops4education.com/Default.aspx

Sketch It

2009-05-24T18:48:00.002-04:00

Some of my favorite scrapbook sketch sites that refer to again and again are...

52 Sketches 52 Weeks
http://52sketches52weeks.com/

Page Maps
http://pagemaps.com/

The Scrap Witch
http://www.scrapwitch.com.au/

Scrappers Anonymous
http://www.scrappersanonymous.com/PHOTOPOST/showgallery.php?cat=517&stype=1&s...

Scrap Maps
http://www.scrap-maps.com/

Pencil Lines
http://www.pencillines.com/

Sketches by Tamara
http://sketchesbytamara.blogspot.com/

Lifetime Moments Sketches
http://gallery.lifetimemoments.com/showgallery.php?cat=590

Scraptivity
http://www.scraptivity.com/create_sketches.html

Two Peas in a Bucket Simple Sketches
http://www.twopeasinabucket.com/pg.asp?cmd=display&layout_id=534372

Scrapbook Dreamer Sketches
http://www.scrapbookdreamer.com/photos/showgallery.php?cat=591

Scrap Muse
http://www.scrapmuse.com/gallery/showgallery.php?cat=526&password

Little Book of Sketches
http://littlebookofsketches.blogspot.com/index.html

Please share your favorite sketch sites.

Architectural Titles

2009-05-23T20:28:00.003-04:00

Architectural photos that look like letters are a hot trend in home decorating. You can use this idea to create a one-of-a-kind scrapbook page title for your next layout.

Around the Scrapbooking Blogosphere #2

2009-05-22T07:53:00.001-04:00

Jessica shares a font every Friday, her posts are aptly named Font Friday. Each Friday, she generously shares a new FREE font that you download.

A little about Jessica:
She is 23 and a freelance graphic designer for my own company. She works primarily with designers, retailers, and other small business owners doing everything from print design to websites. She is very creative and believes designs should be affordable, so her rates are substantially less than other designers due to my low overhead. Her blog, The Love List, has been featured in many national publications.

Printable Papers

2009-05-16T20:00:00.001-04:00

Download these FREE birthday-inspired patterned papers to use on your next birthday scrapbook page. Use them to create digital pages or print them out to create traditional paper scrapbook pages.

WoW - Week of Webisodes

2009-05-11T08:14:00.002-04:00

Week of Webisodes Starts Monday!

Welcome to Paper Wishes’ Week of Webisodes!

Join Paper Wishes for a full week of inspiration! Each day you’ll have a brand-new Webisode, featuring the very latest tips and techniques on things like templates, stamps, Dazzles, and more. Here's a quick look at the lineup:

Monday: Easy Circles Template
Tuesday: Mix Your Messages / Whimsical Words stamp sets
Wednesday: Metal Embossed Jewelry
Thursday: Photo Carousel
Friday: Bargello Dazzles

Also available are FREE downloads, bonus projects, designer tips, plus bargains on our Deal of the Day.

There’s no need to register and it’s FREE! But, if you would a daily reminder when Paper Wishes uploads each new webisode during Week of Webisodes, click here.

Sunday Scrappin' #14

2009-05-10T20:08:00.001-04:00

I did make seven cards -- one for Mother's Day, one for my mother's birthday, and five for teachers for Teacher Appreciation Day -- last week. But, sadly, I forgot to scan some of the cards.

Above are four of the cards made for teachers.

This week I would like to scrapbook, at least, one layout.

To join the fun of scrapping and paper crafting, go to Sunday Scrappin'.

Scrapping on a Budget

2009-05-09T19:59:00.002-04:00

Scrapping on a budget can be as easy as 1... 2... 3... Look around your house, garage, or even outside your window. You will be able to find many items to use with your scrapbooking that you might not of thought about before.

Each month we will take a walk through one room to see what we can find. Please add to the list in the comments if you can think of anything that would work.

This month's room is the kitchen. Some ideas for scrapping on a budget from the kitchen:

plates and bowls, glasses and cups, & cans - for tracing
cookie cutters - for tracing, for stamping
silverware - for stamping, for painting
lunch bags - for paper bag album
toothpicks - for quilling, for gluing, for altering
old cookbooks - for altering, for getting recipes for recipe album
dish rags and scouring pads - for stamping
dish soap and food coloring - to make bubbles for a page background
food boxes - for creating your own chipboard & album covers
straws - for stamping, for painting
potatoes, celery, pasta - for stamping
paper towels and napkins - for cleaning, for stamping, for painting
aluminum foil and wax paper - for stamping, for painting
leftover tiles - for altering
salt/pepper shaker - for storing glitter, etc., for stamping
matches - for aging (burning edges)
pop tabs - for altering (to use as an embellishment)
and, of course, water - for cleaning.

Find Inspiration

2009-05-08T17:29:00.004-04:00

This is what is inspiring me right now:

I’m working on becoming a better photographer. It’s not about taking perfect pictures, but good photos are the basis of a great scrapbook layout. I learned a TON about myself as a photographer by simply reviewing the photos I took last year and taking a moment to think about them. I highly recommend this simple exercise, it WILL make you a better photographer.

I’m committed to getting stories paired with photos. I believe in journaling and I rarely do a page without it. This is not easy but I’ve found many ways to prompt myself to get writing more. Katie is now am hosting a weekly Memory Monday Challenge on her blog each week with tips and ideas to help get those memories preserved.

Each week Amy hosts Sunday Scrappin' which encourages us to get some scrapbooking done each week. She also provides a simple challenge to provide some inspiration.

The Amazing Month of Memories series is back at Katie's blog. Katie has created more than 60 layouts using prompts and challenges found in these idea files. You can download a FREE sample.

Monthly Daily Inspirations by Jill provides challenges for every day of the month. Each month she offers a FREE download of her Daily Inspirations. Her challenges include web prompts, color challenges, quote prompts, title prompts, and more.

The Monthly Round-Up is one of my favorite ways to record the everyday details of my life. It is a quick and easy way to keep memories fresh and store information that will be perfect for future scrapbook pages. The idea originally comes from Katie.

Photo 365 is a very popular project among scrapbookers again this year. It's never to late to start. Katie has some great advice for those of us who want to participate in this very cool challenge. Anna used prompts to go along with her 365 Days.

Project 52 is based on the Photo 365 but with less pressure. This challenge is to take one picture each week for the year. This may feel more manageable than Photo 365 but still a good way to stretch your creative muscles.

Create a photo mosaic from your digital photographs.

Leah started Creative Every Day Challenge in 2008 to help infuse the lives of others with daily creativity. Creativity is meant in the broadest sense, so it doesn't have to be something scrapbook related or art related. Your creative acts could be cooking, taking pictures, knitting, doodling, writing, dancing, decorating, singing, playing with your kids, brainstorming ideas, gardening, or making art in the form of collage, paint, or clay...or whatever.

I picked my word this year. What does that mean? Well, if you haven’t heard of Ali Edwards one word idea be sure to check it out on Ali Edwards' blog. It is a very easy and inspiring way to set the tone for what you want to focus on during the year.

Tuesday Tip #17

2009-05-05T18:34:00.001-04:00

Journaling is writing down the who, what, where, when, and why that goes with your photos. Journaling is an important part of scrapbooking that is often never done for fear of ruining a page with bad handwriting or a mistake . . . or putting it off for later which never comes. Journaling in your scrapbook should always be done using permanent, fade proof, and water proof writing tools.

Mother's Day Cards

2009-05-02T20:13:00.002-04:00

This Mother’s Day, honor a special mom with a unique card made using a variety of embellishments, papers, and techniques.

Click here for 21 unique Mother's Day cards.

National Scrapbooking Day

2009-05-02T00:14:00.004-04:00

Happy National Scrapbooking Day!

Whatever you do today, I hope that you are able to celebrate in a scrappy way!

Here are the top six things to do on National Scrapbooking Day:

1. SCRAP. Obvious? Maybe. But still, you have so many options. If you prefer a solitary scrap, put on your favorite tunes, grab your favorite drink, and dig into your stash. If your more of a social scrapper, this holiday is made for you. There are literally thousands of scrapbooking events and crops going on all over the country (and world) this weekend at scrapbook stores and other venues. However, even if you don't have a LSS, or by some odd chance they're not joining in the fun, you're certainly not out of luck. Head online and take part in one of the online crops popping up all over the place to find inspiration and some new online friends. Here's just a couple sites hosting NSD crops including inspiration, challenges, prizes and more: Two Peas in a Bucket and WeScrap.

2. SHOP. With so much excitement surrounding this crafter's holiday, we're also likely so see some pretty darn good sales going on! NSD might just be the perfect time to stock up on basic supplies or try some of those super cute new embellishments you've had your eye on since they hit the shelves. Here's of few of my favorite online shops based on their selection and sales:
Scrapbook.com
Joann.com

3. ORGANIZE. I know that I feel much more in the mood to create and be productive if I have a clean and organized space to start with. If you need to do a little more than putting a few sheets of cardstock and punches back in their places, here are some great resources to get your scrap space back on track:
The Organized & Inspired Scrapbooker
Where Women Create: Inspiring Work Spaces of Extraordinary Women
Organization Tips for Scrapbookers
How To Organize Your Scrapbook Workspace

4. LEARN. One of the most wonderful things about this hobby is that there is always something new to learn and techniques to try to help improve or enhance your creativity. Many LSS offer many opportunities for classes so check out your local store, but there are also many great learning opportunities online as well. Here's just a few of the best to get you started:
JessicaSprague.com (Jessica's offering a free class right now!)
Get it Scrapped!
Big Picture Scrapbooking

5. DOWNLOAD. Not only are their some great sales going on this weekend, but there are also a lot of great freebies ready for download to inspire or to use on your next project. Memory Makers Magazine has a 31-day Creativity Challenge for May available for free download and Jill from A Matter of Memories blog has her own Daily Inspirations, and Two Peas is offering this super cute digital kit for free download.

6. WIN. Remember those prizes I mentioned up in #1? Well, with just about every crop you'll find a chance to win some really great prizes. The two I mentioned are certainly no exception.You'll also find many general giveaways out there in honor of NSD such as this one from Memory Makers magazine. Another great place to visit today would be the Creating Keepsakes blog - they have giveaways planned for every couple of hours!

Ladies (and scrappy gents), this is really just the tip of the iceburg, so regardless of your plans for today (or the weekend) there are plenty of scrappy options to keep you more than occupied and having a great time!

Happy scrapping!

Adapted from article written by Jill Marie.

Creative Thought of the Day - 4/30/09

2009-04-30T10:50:00.000-04:00

Scrapbooking and design go hand in hand. As designers and scrapbookers, we use color, pattern, texture, repetition, focus, context, shape, proportion, photography and type to convey our message.
~ Brian Tippetts ~~

Tuesday Tip #16

2009-04-28T11:06:00.001-04:00

Has attaching wire to your pages been a problem? A few ways you can attach wired art to your pages are: (1) by sewing your wire down with clear thread, (2) by placing very tiny holes beneath your wired art and create a little "staple" with another small piece of wire. Place "staple" over your wire and thread into the small hole beneath spreading the legs of the "staple" on the back apart, and (3) by using photo mounting tape to adhere the wire on the back side of your project. Whichever way you choose, you're sure to get "wired"!

Cherished Memories

2009-04-26T17:16:00.000-04:00

A Birth Certificate shows you were born.
A Death Certificate shows you died.
A Completed Scrapbook shows you LIVED!

Cherished Memories 4 U Blog

Now Open!

My friend, Teresa, and I have started a new endeavor. Actually, we have been teamed up for several years as scrapbookers and even longer as friends. We had a Yahoo Group and then a Forum and recently decided to move our scrapbooking ideas, tips, challenges, games, etc., to a blog. It is a collaborative effort that we hope will be a success.

Cherished Memories is about cherishing family and loved ones and getting those memories on paper. Cherished Memories is all about scrapbooking and paper-crafting. We play games, host swaps, send RAKs, and have a busy schedule of contests, challenges, and activities. We also learn new and re-visit old techniques, share layouts, and chat.

Scrapbooking Classics

2009-04-26T17:03:00.002-04:00

Scrapbook classics -- coming back in style cause they never go out of style!

Scrapbooking classics are always in style -- especially when you want to do pages on a budget. I have been scrapping, archivally, for 11 years now and have seen a LOT of trends.

What are the classics? I believe the classics to be:
tearing
inking
brads
ribbon
journaling and titling by hand
hand-cut shapes
paper-piecing by hand
color blocking
paper folding with your scraps
computer journaling
borders, simple or elaborate

Happy Blogoversary!

2009-04-25T15:48:00.004-04:00

In honor of 365 Days of Memories blogoversary, I am hosting a giveaway.

The giveaway is a surprise . . . there may be embellishments, fiber, ribbon, rubber stamp, pen, who knows? Also included will be two of my handmade cards.

To enter, leave a comment sharing what you like best about scrapbooking or paper-crafting. The winner will be announced May 9th.

Scrapbook Notebook

2009-04-25T15:17:00.002-04:00

I keep a calendar/organizational binder with me at all times for all the family appointments, important medicine information, contact information, budgeting, etc. Depending on this binder/planner gave me the idea to have a planner for my scrapbooking.

My notebook is not fancy but it sure does help me in selecting what cardstock I need or what tools I don't need to purchase again. It’s simply called My Scrapbooking Notebook. Next time you go shopping online or in person, get your Scrapbooking Notebook out to avoid those duplicates.
I am obsessed with organizing things. In fact, I am working on helping a friend with his organizational needs and another friend just recently requested my help. Am I a professional? Hardly!

It just feels good to have things organized and make them easy to find. Saves money in the long run because you don't ever have to replace something you cannot find. It saves time because you are no longer running around looking for something you just know you have. The Scrapbook Notebook will help you with time management and getting more organized.

Step One: Find Binder

Make your own binder. Choose whatever size you'd like. Many use a 5.5x7 size because it’s easier to carry in your purse or bag. I personally use a 3-ring binder because it’s easy to add pages and rip out pages no longer needed. Don’t go out and buy a planner; use what you already have at home. My planner is not elaborate but it is FUNCTIONAL.

Decorate your binder/planner any way you wish. You are more apt to use the Scrapbook Notebook if it’s beautifully decorated. You can decorate it as simple or as fancy as you wish.

Step Two: Add Categories

The beauty of creating your own planner is that you can make it work for YOU. Choose the categories you want/need. Your categories may not be exactly like mine. My index tabs:
albums
books/magazines
Cuttlebug
inks
notes
pens
planner pages
punches
scissors
shopping list
stamps
templates
wish list

I do not keep track of paper. I don’t know how many sheets of cardstock or pattern paper I have. I don’t know what brands I own. I simply buy what I like. There are times I need a specific color because I use some colors more than others.

I also added two pocket folders. The pockets hold my receipts, sales flyers, coupons, blank paper (to write down ideas, prices, etc.), sticky notes.

Step Three: Wish List

Create a Wish List to store in your notebook. This should be a list of items you really want. When someone asks you what you want for a holiday or birthday, give them a copy of your list.

Step Four: Shopping List

A Shopping List is a must for your binder. It's a bit different than your Wish List. When you run out of a consumable like adhesive or a particular color of ink, add it to your Shopping List. When you use up the last piece of a particular color of cardstock, clip a small piece and attach it to a page in your binder so that way when you return to the scrapbook store you have it to match it up to the correct color.

Make a list of your local scrapbook stores, including chains like Michael’s, Joann’s, and A.C. Moore, along with the directions, address, phone number, and hours of operation. Make a list of URL’s of your favorite online scrapbook stores along with phone number, hours of operation, and what products you purchase the most.

I recommend using the K.I.S.S. method – Keep it Simply Simple – when putting your planner/notebook together. For example, when I started to collect Zig markers, instead of writing down each one, I simply went to the EK Success site and printed out their color chart. I then marked off which ones I had and put the sheet in my notebook.

When I buy an item/product within an indexed category, I simply write the item in the planner.

Every few months, I update my lists on the computer and print them out.

Tuesday Tip #15

2009-04-21T11:03:00.001-04:00

Get Inspiration from a Jar

Make a list of techniques, both tried & true and new to you. Cut them into individual strips and place them in a jar. When you need inspiration, pull 2 or 3 techniques out of the jar & use them on a layout or card project.

Write a list of your supplies and tools. Again, cut them into individual strips and place them in a jar. Some items to include in this list, would be patterned paper, eyelets, brads, ribbons, die cuts, beads, and so on. This will also help use up your stash if you tend to hoard your supplies.

AD: New Memory Works Catalog Available

2009-04-19T18:34:00.007-04:00

Memory Works 209-2010 Product Catalog is now available.

The Home Office has worked so hard to bring us this beautiful new catalog, and they've done it in "record time" too! Having had a chance to look (and drool, and look, and drool) through all 60 gorgeous pages of the PDF file I could not be more excited. There are some old familiar faces in the catalog, but there are some fresh and exciting new ones, too.

Creative Thought of the Day - 4/15/09

2009-04-15T11:51:00.000-04:00

No one can give you a belief. You have to create or adopt it all on your own.
~~ Valery Satterwhite ~~

Tuesday Tip #14

2009-04-14T11:00:00.000-04:00

Have you ever had the problem of sticky adhesive from tapes, photo squares, and stickers "gumming" up your scissors, tweezers, craft knives, and punches? Well, undo it with Un-Du! Un-Du safely removes the sticky residue that can be left behind from these products. Just apply a few drops and wipe away with a soft cloth. Before you know it your tools will be as good as new!

Creative Thought of the Day - 4/9/09

2009-04-09T11:23:00.000-04:00

Every authentic work of art is a gift offered to the future.
~~ Albert Camus ~~

Tuesday Tip #13

2009-04-07T10:58:00.001-04:00

Give stickers a rustic look by pulling out your sandpaper and sanding the stickers slightly.

Creative Thought of the Day - 4/4/09

2009-04-04T23:19:00.001-04:00

The artist's personality, built upon strong desires and compassionate vision, is by its nature prone to depression. Therefore an artist will be visited by depression as a matter of course; his job is to recognize how his own thoughts and feelings contribute to his sadness. He can discourage these visits by affirming his freedom and worth, by remembering to love, and by gently encouraging himself to believe in a world of renewed possibilities. Depression may be natural, but still the artist can dispute and overcome it.
~~ Eric Maisel ~~

I Love Being Carded

2009-03-31T20:59:00.004-04:00

I was asked by Ann of Ann On and On to join the I Love Being Carded Card Swap. Ann had seen some of my homemade cards and was very generous with her kind words.

I have always loved the thought of good mail instead of utility bills, insurance denials, and zero balance checking account notices. The good mail definitely outweighs the "bad" mail.

In this swap, every two weeks we send cards to another member of the swap group. Easy enough, right?

Yes, you can still join the fun. Go to Ann On and On to let Ann know you want to be part of the I Love Being Carded Card Swap.

Creative Thought of the Day - 3/31/09

2009-03-31T13:22:00.001-04:00

I believe my self-esteem is not measured, but expressed. I see it in my artwork and suddenly I begin to remember WHO I AM.
~~ Tatiana Kuzyk ~~

Tuesday Tip #12

2009-03-31T10:56:00.001-04:00

When you journal, are you at a loss for words? Ddo you sometimes repeat the same words over and over again? Keeping a small Thesaurus handy near your workspace is a great way to make your writing more eloquent. Just look up the word you want to use, find its synonym, and soon your journaling will flow like poetry!

The Ultimate Blog Party - Winners

2009-03-28T23:07:00.000-04:00

All the numbers have been tabulated (thanks to Random Number Generator), answers were reviewed for qualifying party go-ers, and finally winners chosen.

Many party go-ers did not read the introductions thoroughly and so were, unfortunately, removed from the final qualifying round. At each blog, I asked a specific question and kindly requested a specific answer. If the question was overlooked or not answered, the individual was sadly eliminated. Luckily, many party go-ers did read the introductions, so the winners are...

At All Things Cherished, Aunt Rene (#20) of Aunt Rene won Pillow Talk by iMom.

At 365 Days of Christmas, Blp3 (#28) of Let's Talk Politics won The Heart and Home of Christmas by Karla Dornacher.

At 365 Day of Memories, Jenny (#52, non-blogger) won the four pack of handmade cards made by me.

At 365 Days of Organization, Forest Green (#51) of Katrina Relocators won a planner.

Congratulations to all the winners!

Thanks to so many for all the compliments about me and my blogs this past week. I have been truly touched by your kindness.

Tuesday Tip #11

2009-03-24T10:54:00.000-04:00

The best way to journal right onto your background paper is to write it lightly in pencil first. This way if you make any mistakes you can fix them before committing to pen. Use a writing pen to trace over your pencil markings. When the ink is completely dry, erase the pencil marks with a white eraser.

FREE Photo Editing Software

2009-03-23T11:46:00.002-04:00

Picasa is free photo editing software from Google that makes your pictures look great.

Beautiful Albums
Show your photos at their best. View full-screen slide shows, see your pictures arranged on a global map, enjoy video playback, and more.

Edit to Perfection
Improve almost any picture with Picasa's one-click fixes for common problems like red-eye, color, and lighting. Or, use tuning and effects to make your best photos look even better.

Search and Explore
Picasa lets you browse and search photos in public albums -- perfect for scoping out your next vacation destination. Or visit the Explore page to discover what's new, interesting, and popular.

Get Organized
Picasa automatically finds all the photos on your PC, wherever they are, and will organize them in seconds.

To get more information &/or to download your free copy of Picasa, go to Picasa.

Sunday Scrappin' #13

2009-03-22T18:49:00.003-04:00

Ta Da's:
Took photos (of new hair style and donated hair to Locks of Love).

To Do's:
Get two layouts completed.

Challenge:
Use a quote as an element on your page.

This challenge was easy for me because I have a Quote Album that is full of all of my favorite quotes.

Join other scrappers and paper-crafters at Sunday Scrappin'.

Creative Thought of the Day - 3/22/09

2009-03-22T17:15:00.000-04:00

The Ultimate Blog Party 2009

2009-03-19T12:25:00.008-04:00

Welcome to 365 Days of Memories!

My Brief Introduction

I am: a single mother, a foster mother, a college graduate, a Master's of Education candidate, a feminist, a daughter, a sister, an aunt, a niece, a heterosexual, a lover and owner of Chihuahuas, a lover and previous owner of Cocker Spaniels, eclectic, sassy, unique, allergic to milk, an Internet addict, a Christian, a friend, a shoulder to cry on, a listening ear, a counselor, a teacher, a kid at heart, an adult, a woman, a female, a sexual assault survivor, someone working to prevent sexual assault, a chocoholic, a book lover, a scrapbook artist, a photographer, German, Welsh, American, 5'1", a blog junkie, a Christmas fanatic, an advocate for children, supporter of education, a crime show watcher, a hopeful writer . . . I am ME.

To learn more about me go to my main blog, All Things Cherished.
To learn more about my love of Christmas, go to 365 Days of Christmas.
To learn more about getting organized, go to 365 Days of Organization.

Giveaways

Here, at 365 Days of Memories, the prize is a four-pack of handmade cards. I love scrapbooking and paper-crafting. Recently, I have gotten some very nice compliments on my cards. I am excited to give one lucky winner a pack of four cards for various occasions and holidays.

If you are interested in the cards, please a comment as to why you are interested in receiving this prize and who the recipients of the cards will be.

At All Things Cherished, the prize is an awesome journal you share with your child. Pillow Talk is a creative way to communicate with your child. Got a secret to share, some admiration to express, or a word of thanks for a job well done? Why not put it in writing? On the pages of Pillow Talk, you'll find 100 relationship building questions for you and your child to answer. In today's world of virtual communication, give your kids the real deal. Something tangible they can see and touch and look at again and again, whenever they want to feel connected with you. The journal is an awesome way to bond with your child(ren) and I am so happy to be able to give one to a lucky winner.

At 365 Days of Christmas, the prize is a lovely, hardcover book titled The Heart & Home of Christmas by Karla Dornacher. Artist Karla Dornacher celebrates the Christmas season with her first holiday title. Page after cozy page features her signature artwork with its warm and home-style feel, along with her gentle words of inspiration. I love this book and am so excited to be able to share it with one lucky winner.

At 365 Days of Organization, the prize is a high-quality, full-color planner. You have a choice of one planner from primary age through high-school aged children or adults. The dates are from July 2009 through June 2010 so, of course, they are current calendars. There are quotes and other misc. information included. I am happy to be able to share two planners with two lucky winners.

Thanks for stopping by.

Tuesday Tip #10

2009-03-17T10:53:00.001-04:00

No matter what size your work space is or where it is, put something in that area/room that inspires you to be creative. A family picture, a favorite knick-knack, a radio, whatever will get you motivated and feeling creative. Small or large, it doesn't matter, just let it be an inspiration to you.

Cards, Cards, Cards

2009-03-16T10:26:00.004-04:00

Blue hello there cards.

Generic blue-violet cards.

Friend cards.

Congrats to the wedding couple.

Congrats cards.

Congrats purple.

Pink birthday card.

Birthday boy cards.

Baby cards.

Sunday Scrappin' #12

2009-03-15T21:52:00.005-04:00

Pink happy birthday cards.

Blue thinking of you cards.

Sweet pink baby card.

Pink "I Adore You" card.

Love cards using earth-tones.

Family cards using transparencies.

Ta Da's:

I did get the cards scanned. Some of the cards are above. (The computer &/or blogger were not cooperating so the other cards will be posted tomorrow.)

I did get one layout completed.

To Do's:

Scan all the layouts that I have completed lately.

Create Christmas tags.

Thanks for taking the time to look through all my cards.

To join other scrappers and paper crafters, go to Sunday Scrappin'.

Creative Thought of the Day - 3/15/09

2009-03-15T19:10:00.003-04:00

Artists (painters, quilters, scrapbookers, etc.) need to take some chances, break some rules, and make art that comes from inside of them.

Creative Thought of the Day - 3/14/09

2009-03-14T16:29:00.000-04:00

The artist is a receptacle for emotions that come from all over the place: from the sky, from the earth, from a passing shape, from a spider's web.
~~ Pablo Picasso ~~

Creative Thought of the Day - 3/13/09

2009-03-13T16:28:00.001-04:00

Works of art are made of concept, material . . . and feeling.
~~ Kenneth Martin ~~

Distressed Leather-Look

2009-03-12T21:11:00.000-04:00

Watch IOD Distressed Leather technique in How to Videos and Faith Videos | View More Free Videos Online at Veoh.com

Tuesday Tip #9

2009-03-10T10:50:00.002-04:00

Do you ever find that once you have placed your lumpy pages in your scrapbook -- that no matter how hard you try to keep your embellishments from pressing into the other pages -- the pages often get damaged? For a quick, cheap, and easy way to keep your scrapbook pages unharmed, pick up a sheet of foam paper. Available at all major crafting stores.

Cut approximately 8-16 strips (1/2 inch-1 inch) lengthwise out of an 8x10 sheet of foam paper. Punch holes in the strips and then place them in between every 5 or so pages of your scrapbook (replacing those flimsy cardboard strips that come with your page refills). This will create an extra space between all your pages and will eliminate damage due to lumpy embellishments.

Foam paper will cost you just pennies for a sheet . . . and will save you so much by keeping your treasured layouts dent and damage free!

Sunday Scrappin' #11

2009-03-08T18:18:00.003-04:00

Unfortunately, I was unable to join Sunday Scrappin' the past three weeks because I was in a scrapbooking funk. I am ecstatic to say that this week I got some paper crafting done. Hooray!

Ta Da's:
I created 36 cards and two layouts this week. Whoo hoo!

To Do's:

Scan all 36 cards and layouts.
Create two layouts.
Create Christmas tags.

To join other paper crafters and scrappers, go to Sunday Scrappin'.

Everyone Can Scrapbook

2009-03-06T21:26:00.003-05:00

Whether you consider yourself creative or doubt your artistic ability, you'll soon discover that being innovative is easy with a bit of assistance. Add a few basic tools, a little time, and a handful of photographs and you've got all the components to build a scrapbook chronicling your fondest memories.

Be selective.
You don't have to include every photo. Choose the photos that best represent the moments you are trying to capture.

Tell the story.
Journaling allows you to complete the tale your photos have only begun to tell. Handwritten or computer-generated texts covers the details and emotions surrounding each photo -- anything from names, places, and dates to a log of what happened to a description of your feelings, thoughts, or impressions.

Enjoy yourself.
Remember, each page is your blank canvas. Create layout that suit your mood and style. Work at your own pace.

Creative Thought of the Day - 3/7/09

2009-03-06T20:51:00.000-05:00

In order to succeed, your desire for success should be greater than your fear of failure.
~~ Billy Cosby ~~

Creative Thought of the Day - 3/6/09

2009-03-06T09:02:00.001-05:00

Life is not numbered by the number of breaths we take but by the number of moments that take our breath away.

The Right Words

2009-03-05T20:29:00.004-05:00

Staying in touch with the important people in our lives is a rewarding and challenging task. Busy, busy, busy. Rush, rush, rush. It's too easy to lose track of the people you care about. Remember when you were a kid . . . you and your best friend tied two tin cans together with a rope, then stretched it tight? The right words are like that rope: They keep you connected to loved ones.

For many people, the thought of expressing feelings and emotions on paper is downright daunting. But it doesn't need to be! After all, the words themselves are not nearly as important as the thought behind them. Your thoughtfulness takes the most simple sentiments and turns them into gestures of kindness and gratitude, love and celebration, sympathy and support. Your thoughtfulness reaches out to the people you care about and reminds them that they are in your thoughts, your heart, and even your prayers.

It is my hope that the simple expressions in this new column at 365 Days of Memories will inspire you to create and keep connections with the people you care about.

Simple Card Sentiments

Friends
Friendship
Kindred spirits
You're one of a kind
What would I do without you?
Let's do lunch
Best friends forever
Partners in crime

Thinking of You
I miss you
How have you been?
Wish you were here
It's been too long
Thinking of you
In my thoughts
I can't get you out of my mind

Hello There
What's new with you?
A sunny hello
Warm wishes
Let's get together
Did you forget me?

Baby
Heaven sent
A little bit of heaven
Bundle of joy
Tiny fingers, tiny toes.
Miracle
Love at first sight

Birthday Boy/Girl
Blow out the candles
Let's eat cake
Happy cake and ice cream day
You're such a big boy/girl
Birthday bash
Happy birthday
Happy birthday to you
Here's to turning (age)
Let's party
Birthday wishes
Prince/princess for a day
On your special day
Celebrate
Make a wish

Birthday Adult
Older, wiser, better looking
It's your day
My wish for you
May all your dreams come true
Just for you
You know you're getting old when the candles cost more than the cake. ~~ Bob Hope ~~
Happiness, beauty, wisdom
Act your shoe size, not your age
Age is nothing but a number. ~~ Diesel Payne ~~
On your special day

Congratulations
Three cheers
Well done
Hats off to you
So proud of you
That's fabulous
You're amazing
Wow
Way to go
Take a bow

Just Because
Because you're you
Do i need a reason to write?
Just wanted to talk
Haven't heard from you lately
Health, happiness, and love

Sympathy
I'm so sorry
You're in my thoughts and prayers
I'm here for you
What can i do?
Deepest sympathy
Wishing you peace in this troubled time
So sorry for your loss

Thank You
Thanks
You're so thoughtful
I can't thank you enough
With heartfelt thanks
Merci
Thank you
You're so kind
Special thanks
Thanks a bunch

Family
Families are forever
Father knows best
When it comes to love, mom's the word
Sisters/brothers by chance. Friends by choice.
Home is where the heart is
All in the family

Love
Have I told you lately? I love you
With all my heart
I'm all yours
My heart belongs to you
Now, forever, always
Sweetheart
Truly, madly, deeply
I'll never stop loving you
Crazy in love, crazy for you

Wedding
To the happy couple
To a lifetime of happiness
Happily ever after
From this day forward
Love, honor, cherish
Two lives, one heart
Promise
With this ring

Generic
The best things in life aren't free. They're priceless.
The best things in life aren't things.
Treasure each day
Create joy

Card Tips

2009-03-05T20:23:00.002-05:00

When making any card, always choose the envelope size first. This way, you won't create a gorgeous card only to find out that you don't have an envelope to fit it. Find an envelope and then go from there.

Handwritten sentiments are what really make a card special. Spend more time on the most important part -- writing how you feel.

Personalize each card with the recipient's name or initials. This can be easily done by hand or with stickers.

When mass-producing cards of the same design, do it in steps instead of completing one card at a time in its entirety. For example, first do all the card folding at once, then attach the paper, then the brads, and so forth.

Creative Thought of the Day - 3/3/09

2009-03-03T14:52:00.000-05:00

It is hard to get too carried away with yourself as a big-time artist when you’re picking up dog poop in the backyard.
~~ Loren Long ~~

Tuesday Tip #8

2009-03-03T10:48:00.000-05:00

Do you have problems tearing the paper when you dry emboss? Don't push down too hard on the stylus while dry embossing and try rubbing the area you want to emboss with wax paper first. The wax paper helps to "lubricate" the cardstock so that the stylus will flow easily over it and therefore avoid tearing.

Creative Thought of the Day - 3/2/09

2009-03-02T14:48:00.001-05:00

The symbolism of the wheel turning all night long, just as a potter spins the wheel or even a writer types a manuscript deep into the evening, indicates a tireless dedication to the creation.
~~ Ellen Joy Johnson ~~

Artist Trading Cards

2009-03-02T11:08:00.003-05:00

Artist Trading Cards (ATCs) are miniature works of art created on 2.5x3.5 inches (64x 89mm) of cardstock.

They are originals and self-produced. Anybody can produce them. The idea is that you trade them with other people who produce cards.

The Basics

As their name indicates, ATCs are collectibles. Artist Trading Cards are a brilliant idea born of the older sports-themed trading cards.

The most basic rule of an ATC is that the dimensions of the ATC must be 2.5"x3.5". There are also some guidelines about making and trading of ATCs. First, an ATC can not be sold; only exchanged. The whole essence of these tiny works of art is about artists meeting, by correspondence or online, and exchanging their works, thus meeting many artists and getting exposed to many personal styles. Second, on the back of each ATC the artist writes all of the following information: name, contact information (city, state, and country), title of the ATC and number (1/8, 2/8...) of an edition or series.

By definition, artist trading cards are made in limited numbers, often no more than one of a kind.

Unique ATCs are called originals.
Sets of identical ATCs are called editions and are numbered.
Sets of ATCs that are based on one theme but that are different are called series.

Don't be intimidated by the concept of small editions or originals. What most collectors really want are cards that are made with care.

The above is all you need to know to start making your own ATCs.

Common sense dictates that they should be sturdy enough to survive mailing and of reasonable thickness.

The Format

There are three ways to get the correct format.

Cut the background/cardstock/support to the right size before you start creating.
After you have worked on a large surface, you can cut the ATCs from it.
Use commercial trading cards or playing cards as ready-made canvasses.

I personally use the first method a lot, especially when I get paper scraps that have the potential for the right size. Many times after scrapbooking, I will cut my scraps and papers to the right size and save them for later.

I've also seen lovely ATCs that had been made in series by drawing the motif along a long horizontal strip that was then cut to obtain a bunch of similar but not identical cards.

The Design

Think of the scale of the card and don't go into techniques that are only suitable for larger projects. Think of what great techniques and mediums would work with the small size and what the small size allows you to do that wouldn’t otherwise be possible. An example of a subject that would be wasted on a small size is the group picture that becomes so uninteresting since it was scaled down too much that you can't even see the faces anymore.

The Techniques and Materials

Almost all traditional media can be used to create a miniature canvas of an ATC, either alone or in combination with others: calligraphy, cartoon, charcoal, collage, color pencils, crayons, dotting, inks, markers, pastels, photography, sketches, and watercolors.

Other materials and techniques that can be used... acetate, band-aids, beads, collage, crepe paper, cut-outs, drawing, fabric, feathers, foil, glitter, incense paper, melted crayons, mesh, metal, mica, negatives (two negative strips side by side is the exact width needed to make an ATC), nail polish, origami paper, painting, perfume (for scented cards), Plexiglas, poetry, polymer clay, postage stamps, punching, quotes, receipts, salt, spray paint, stamping, stitching, tickets, tissue paper, transfer, vellum, weaving, wire, wrapping paper, yarn, and the list goes on. The possibilities are endless!

A great idea is to recycle all your paper scraps and make them part of new ATCs. Since ATCs are so small, insignificant bits of paper (scraps, envelopes, greeting cards) are often just the right size.

The Extras

ATC Envelopes
A great alternative to the transparent sleeves when sending several cards is to create an ATC envelope. Check the resources below for a template.

ID Tag
Instead of the usual boring identification tag you wear around the office, slip an ATC into the plastic sleeve turning your ID tag into a one-of-a-kind tag.

Storage
A popular solution to storing ATCs is the transparent sheets with 9 pockets that are available for commercial cards. Another fun way to collect ATCs is to place the cards in picture frames to display in your home or studio. Many collectors make special handmade books to display their ATCs. The sky's the limit!

Signature Cards
Many ATC artists create a "business card" ATC that features a self-portrait on the front and a fact sheet about themselves on the back. These are sent along with your ATCs when trading. This is a great idea that allows artists to get to know each other better.

The Resources

Artist Trading Cards
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Artist_trading_cards
Wikipedia provides a definition and description of ATCs.

Artist Trading Cards
http://www.artist-trading-cards.ch/stc.html
A source for international trading of ATCs. Galleries and other information are also available.

ATCards.com
http://www.atcards.com/forums/index.php?referrerid=203
Forum for Artist trading cards.

ATC Quarterly
http://www.atcquarterly.com/
A magazine dedicated solely to artist trading cards.

Autumn Sunflower’s ATC Gallery
http://www.geocities.com/autumninavalon/atcgallery.html
Autumn’s private ATC gallery.

Bella’s Paper Craft Site
http://www.bellaonline.com/subjects/3846.asp
Various links to galleries and how-to’s.

Bmuse Products
http://www.b-muse.com/artist-trading-cards-g.HTM
Galleries, message board, and a store are available at Bmuse.

Craft Ideas
http://www.craftideas.info/html/blue_travel_atc1.html
This site provides instructions so you can make your own ATCs (and other craft projects).

Denton Artist Trading Cards
http://homepage.mac.com/dentan10/PhotoAlbum11.html
Hundreds of ATCs located here to peruse.

Digital Artist Trading Cards by Roberto Luigi
http://www.geocities.com/robluigi/
Rob’s private ATC gallery.

Ed’s Artist Trading Cards
http://www.geocities.com/edsatc/index.html
Ed’s private ATC gallery. Links are also available.

HeartsART
http://www.heartsart.com/info/inarchive.asp?aid=2297
The topic of Artist Trading Cards is discussed on this radio show.

Kakupacal.com
http://www.kakupacal.com/atc.htm
Neil Sorenson’s private ATC gallery.

Mirkwood Designs
http://www.ruthannzaroff.com/mirkwooddesigns/atcenvelope.htm
Template for artist trading card envelope.

Mirkwood Designs
http://www.ruthannzaroff.com/mirkwooddesigns/tcdiag.htm
Cutting diagram for ATCs. Get 10 ATCs from one sheet of 8.5x11” sheet of cardstock.

Mirli Mirli Artworks
http://www.geocities.com/llewenanewell/artisttradingcards.html
Llewena Newell’s private art and ATC gallery.

Stray Cards
http://www.geocities.com/straycards/
You can donate your own ATC and join an ongoing collection traveling through the communities of Australia.

Artist Trading Cards are art for the sake of art. ATCs are a precious reminder to amateurs and professionals alike of what creativity is all about – the pleasure of working with beauty and the excitement of being surprised by experimental techniques.

Enjoy making your own ATCs!

365 Pictures

2009-03-02T10:29:00.004-05:00

Only two more weeks until the official launch of Creativity Portal's first-ever worldwide collaborative daily prompt project, 365 Pictures.

Artists, photographers, writers, and other creative people are generously sharing their personal pictures and thought-provoking prompts to inspire others with unique perspectives and manifested expressions of creativity. It's so beautiful! Stunning photos of nature and animals, snapshots of artwork, funny illustrations, mixed media imagery, and so much more are lined up in this exquisite prompt machine.

The launch date is March 15, 2009.

Tuesday Tip #7

2009-02-24T10:45:00.002-05:00

A great way to hand tint Sepia or Black & White photos printed from an inkjet printer is to print your photos on Matte Photo Paper and then color them with Decorating Chalks. You'll have a beautiful hand tinted photo in no time!

Tuesday Tip #6

2009-02-17T21:13:00.003-05:00

To incorporate signatures into your scrapbook journaling, it is a good idea to have people sign on a separate piece of card stock. Make sure they sign with an archival pen. This form of art journaling can be used in a variety of ways. Mat the signature(s) like a photograph, as another way to embellish your page. This is a great way to scrapbook the cast of a school play or sports team.

Cards, Cards, Cards

2009-02-10T11:42:00.003-05:00

These are some of the birthday cards made in the past two weeks.

Tuesday Tip #5

2009-02-10T10:43:00.000-05:00

Keep some of the candy wrappers from Valentine's Day, Easter, &/or Halloween. You can scan them and print them onto cardstock. These can make the perfect embellishment to go along with your trick or treating photos.

Sunday Scrappin' #10

2009-02-08T21:23:00.005-05:00

I didn't get any scrapbooking done but I did fix my scanner so it is usable. Hooray!

The cards shown here are some of the thank you cards that were made last week.

To Do:
Get two layouts done.

Ta Da:
Scanned the above cards.

Check out other's paper crafts at Sunday Scrappin'.

Get the Scoop

2009-02-05T18:32:00.004-05:00

Learn new ideas, get some fun tips, try out new techniques by checking out Scrapbooks Etc.

Handwriting tips
ScrapbooksEtc.com/184

Heat-emboss
ScrapbooksEtc.com/029

Make your own stamp
ScrapbooksEtc.com/030

Recolor a digital element
ScrapbooksEtc.com/036

Apply a rub-on
ScrapbooksEtc.com/038

Hand-stitch
ScrapbooksEtc.com/039

Set an eyelet
ScrapbooksEtc.com/040

Selectively color a photo
ScrapbooksEtc.com/048

Use the rule of thirds
ScrapbooksEtc.com/049

Do a blender pen transfer
ScrapbooksEtc.com/032

Hand-tint a photo
ScrapbooksEtc.com/033

Print white type
ScrapbooksEtc.com/041

Reverse print text
ScrapbooksEtc.com/042

Type text in a circle
ScrapbooksEtc.com/043

Make a mosaic background
ScrapbooksEtc.com/046

When at the site, you will find more great step-by-step techniques

What's Your Type?

2009-02-05T18:15:00.003-05:00

Chances are you don't need a complete collection of markers, gel pens, journaling pens, and color pencils. Think about what you'd like to do with your writing tools, then purchase accordingly.

Journaling Pens

Check the tip size. Larger numbers (like .08) produce a thicker line while finer tips have smaller numbers (.01).

Black is a versatile color that no scrapbooker should be without. From there, add colors that you use often.

Most scrapbooking stores allow you to test a pen on a scratch pad to see if you like the way the ink flows and the pen feels. The more comfortable you are with the feel and flow, the more likely you are to write with it.

The best journaling pens are acid-free and fade-proof so your brilliant prose will stay readable for years to come.

Tuesday Tip #4

2009-02-03T10:41:00.000-05:00

A great way to use up those old border sticker strips is to cut them apart and make frames for your photos.

Sunday Scrappin' #9

2009-02-01T20:39:00.006-05:00

This week I got lots of scrapbooking done. I am so excited with all that I accomplished.

Ta Da:
Christmas Thank You Cards - 14
Thank You Cards - 11
Birthday Cards - 4
12x12 Layouts - 4
8.5x11 Layouts - 2 (above)

The layout is about my daughter and her friend, Amy, who was her big sister from the Big Brothers Big Sisters program.

Unfortunately, my scanner quit so am working on fixing it myself this week.

To Do:
I would like to get more layouts completed this week. I am afraid to put a number as a goal because if I don't accomplish my exact goal then I feel bad.

Challenge:
A Sweet Treat. Maybe you'll make a treat box, maybe you'll scrap a favorite dessert recipe, or maybe you'll scrap a layout of your favorite sweet people.

My Answer:
I scrapbooked my children this week, one layout is above, so I did meet the challenge.

Come join other paper crafters and scrapbookers at Sunday Scrappin'. Let's encourage each other to enjoy our hobby!

Tuesday Tip #3

2009-01-27T20:26:00.002-05:00

Looking to add interest to scrapbook journaling? Pick up post cards of scenic views or famous landmarks on your trip. Then write something on the back and mail it to yourself. This will get great shots into your album that you may not be able to capture with your camera . . . plus, on the spot journaling. Mount using scrapbook photo mounting corners so you can read the back or transfer the journaling to your page before adhering to your page.

Sunday Scrappin' #8

2009-01-25T21:23:00.003-05:00

Ta Da:
1. I completed 14 Christmas thank you cards. They are decorated and embellished. I'll get them scanned and posted to the blog later this week.
2. I completed two bookmarks for a swap at 12 Months of Christmas.

To Do:
1. Write thank you messages in the above cards and mail.
2. Make thank you cards.
3. Organize some of the photographs saved on the computer.

Share your ta das and to dos with fellow scrappers at Sunday Scrappin'.

Tuesday Tip #2

2009-01-20T20:41:00.000-05:00

Kids scrapbooking projects offer a unique opportunity to include your child in the memory making process. Your child's drawing is more valuable, beautiful, and personalized then standard dies cuts, stickers, or other embellishments you can buy. Let your children's imagination run wild and allow them to use your cardstock and pens on a regular basis. You may reap some wonderful, yet inexpensive page enhancements. You can just cut around the image and adhere it to their pages. Just make sure you use an appropriate scrapbooking adhesive so you don't ruin your kids scrapbooking pages.

Valentine Crafting

2009-01-19T19:12:00.001-05:00

Join Elle’s Studio for a week of Valentine's crafting for free!

Simple Scrapbooks to Cease Publication

2009-01-19T18:55:00.003-05:00

It’s not an exaggeration to say that it is a sad day for scrapbookers everywhere. A few days ago CK Media announced that Simple Scrapbooks will cease publication after its May/June 2009 publication. Citing the economic downturn Lin Sorensen, VP and Editorial Manager, said

"Since its founding in 2002, Simple Scrapbooks has been simplifying the process of scrapbooking for tens of thousands of scrapbookers worldwide, providing solutions that keep them engaged in and passionate about sharing their stories and memories. The end of Simple Scrapbooks as a magazine is not the end of this message. It will continue as part of Creating Keepsakes magazine, where, starting with the July 2009 issue, we will integrate Simple concepts and personalities into our editorial mix, and continue providing ideas and inspiration to help beginning and experienced scrapbookers alike fit scrapbooking into their busy lives."

You may read the full statement at The Simple Blog.

Angie Lucas, Managing Editor, also made a statement at The Simple Blog, the official Simple Scrapbooks blog. For more statements and reactions visit the blogs of Stacy Julian, founder of the magazine, and Cathy Zielske, Art Director.

Sunday Scrappin' #7

2009-01-18T20:56:00.003-05:00

Ta Da:
I got 11 ATC cards done for a swap as well as use up some of my scrapbooking supplies as well as use the color blue for this week's challenge for Sunday Scrappin'.

To Do:

I want to get all the Christmas thank you cards completed.

This Year

2009-01-18T18:41:00.001-05:00

Shimelle Laine is holding a free online mini-class titled This Year, as a way to say thank you “for all the fabulous things that have come her way in scrapbooking.”

It’s simple to take part in the class, and everyone is welcome! There is no signing up, all you need to do is follow her blog to download the class materials. The supply list is available for download here. The class begins today but you can jump in at any time.

Birthday Calculator

2009-01-15T12:57:00.004-05:00

Birth date: 31 July 1967

Your date of conception was on or about 7 November 1966 which was a Monday. You were born on a Monday under the astrological sign Leo.

Your fortune cookie reads: The secret of getting ahead is getting started.

Your Life path number is seven. The Julian calendar date of your birth is 2439702.5. The golden number for 1967 is 11. The epact number for 1967 is 19. The year 1967 was not a leap year.

Your birthday falls into the Chinese year beginning 2/9/1967 and ending 1/29/1968. You were born in the Chinese year of the Goat.

Your Native American Zodiac sign is Salmon; your plant is Raspberry.

You were born in the Egyptian month of Paopy, the second month of the season of Poret (Emergence - Fertile soil).

Your date of birth on the Hebrew calendar is 23 Tammuz 5727.

The Mayan Calendar long count date of your birthday is 12.17.13.16.18 which is 12 baktun 17 katun 13 tun 16 uinal 18 kin.

The Hijra (Islamic Calendar) date of your birth is Monday, 23 Rabi'u'th-Thani 1387 (1387-4-23).

As of 1/15/2009 12:55:55 PM EST you are 41 years old. You are 498 months old. You are 2,163 weeks old. You are 15,144 days old. You are 363,468 hours old. You are 21,808,135 minutes old. You are 1,308,488,155 seconds old.

Celebrities who share your birthday:
Eric Lively (1981), Dean Cain (1966), J.K. Rowling (1965), Jim Corr (1964), Wesley Snipes (1962), Bill Berry (1958), Barry Van Dyke (1951), Geraldine Chaplin (1944), Curt Gowdy (1919), and Milton Friedman (1912).

Top songs of 1967:
To Sir with Love by Lulu
Daydream Believe by Monkees
Windy by Association
Ode to Billie Joe by Bobbie Gentry
Somethin' Stupid by Nancy & Frank Sinatra
Groovin' by Young Rascals
The Letter by Box Tops
Light My Fire by Doors
Happy Together by Turtles
Hello Goodbye by Beatles

Your age is the equivalent of a dog that is 5.92720156555773 years old. You're still chasing cats!

Your lucky day is Sunday. Your lucky number is 1 & 4. Your ruling planet is the Sun. Your lucky dates are 1st, 10th, 19th, 28th.

In 1967 there were approximately 3.7 million births in the US. In 1967 the US population was approximately 179,323,175 people, 50.6 persons per square mile. In 1967 in the US there were approximately 1,800,000 marriages (9.3%) and 479,000 divorces (2.5%). In 1967 in the US there were approximately 1,712,000 deaths (9.5 per 1000). In the US a new person is born approximately every 8 seconds.In the US one person dies approximately every 12 seconds.

Your birthstone is Ruby.

Your birth tree is Cypress.

Personality traits: faithful, strong, muscular, adaptable, takes what life has to give, happy, content, optimistic, needs enough money and acknowledgment, hates loneliness, passionate lover.

The moon's phase on the day you were born was waning crescent.

Click here to discover all about your birth date.

All this information about your birth date is a fun way to add journaling to your pages.

What Type of Scrapbooker Are You?

2009-01-13T21:07:00.006-05:00

Scrapbook.com has compiled a shopping list based on various scrapbooking personalities. The intent of this list was to provide great gift ideas for holiday shopping, but the list proves to be very insightful. Check out the description of each personality to see which personality best suits you.

The Professional Organizer is the scrapbooker with everything and everything in its place! The Professional Organizer has a system and knows just where to find everything in their stash. Their space can be big or small, but they've devised a way to fit it all in and will never lose a tiny brad or a single glue dot, no matter what.

The Beginner scrapbooker is just getting started. They are enthusiastic about learning to use new products and techniques but they may be a bit overwhelmed with all the supplies available on the market today.

The Fashionista is a scrapbooker who loves the latest, the greatest, the newest, and the most fabulous products on the market. Fashionistas stay ahead of the trends and keep an eye on the "brand new" section of the scrapbook store for the freshest supplies to hit the market.

The Die-Cutter is a scrapbooker that appreciates the perfect embellishment for each page, and they'll go to great lengths to ensure consistency when they're replicating cards and invitations in multiples. Die-cutters typically love cardstock scraps and materials such as vinyl, fabric, chipboard, and cork, among others.

The Frugal Scrapper is a serious bargain hunter, looking for the most supplies at the best price. Frugal scrappers appreciate a great deal, a big value, and will take the time to hunt it down.

The Altered Artist is a true creative type, dedicated to distressing new items and using vintage finds (or replicas) in their scrapbooking design. Altered Artists revel in old trinkets, shabby-chic antiques, and the age of it all. They like to stain, burnish, fray, peel, crackle, fade, dye, and weather anything and everything they can get their hands on.

The Pink Princess is a scrapbooker who loves anything pink, anything related to Disney Princesses, and anything that is just plain fabulous! If she wears pink, owns pink handbags, pink tools, pink shoes, or pink jewelry - she's could be a Pink Princess. If she loves Cinderella, Belle, Ariel, Jasmine, Sleeping Beauty, Tinkerbell or any other Disney females, she's likely a Pink Princess.

The Diamond Diva scrapbooker loves anything with shimmer and shine. Bling is on the top of their list -- rhinestones, glitter, mirrors, mists, crowns, glossy accents, iridescent pearls and more will please the Diamond Diva.

The Book Worm is a crafter that seeks ideas and inspiration in printed form, such as idea books and magazines. You might have a Book Worm on your hands if you are constantly finding publications around your house with dog-earred pages, writing in the margins, and otherwise mutilated reference guides.

The Cardmaker Extraordinaire appreciates a handmade greeting, but enjoys making handmade greetings even more.

The Digi Geek is very endearing term for the digital or hybrid scrapbooker. The Digi Geek knows how to navigate Photoshop applications, what the word "brushes" means when applied to scrapbooking, and that a "clone" isn't actually a scientific breakthrough.

The Eco-Scrapper wants to help save the earth. They like to preserve and conserve and find great joy in recycling and recycled items. They like to re-purpose old items and make them new again.

The Storyteller is all about the story (or the journaling). This scrapbooker wants to document everything in writing, so as to pass on a complete legacy to the next generation. They want to capture the message and the history behind the photos.

The Tool Junkie likes her hardware! You know they're a Tool Junkie by the big amount of wacky gadgets they have in your scrapping stash.

The Gift Giver is a scrapbooker that makes so many different things, from albums to altered items, and lovingly gives them away as gifts to friends and family members. The Gift Giver rarely ends up with any keepsakes of their own because they are so immersed in creating for others.

The Home Decorator takes the ordinary and makes it extraordinary! If there isn't much wall or surface space left in your home or hers, you're well-acquainted with the Home Decorator. From mini-albums, to framed masterpieces, to mod podged, or altered items, the Home Decorator can master it all and make it look store-bought.

The Mobile Scrapper is always on the go - whether it's to a crop, a class, a girlfriend's house, or just to the living room, she's moving and shaking all the time.

The Overlap Scrapper is a crafter that mixes crafty mediums, such as sewing, knitting, crocheting, beading and jewelry-making, painting, and many other hobbies.

The Shutterbug is the ultimate photographer whether amature, aspiring, already running a successful business, or just enjoys snapping hundreds of photos each day.

The Stamp Addict loves all things related to ink, embossing, clear stamps, rubber stamps, and card making.

Adapted from Scrapbook.com.

Tuesday Tip

2009-01-13T18:32:00.000-05:00

Looking for a creative journaling idea? You can write to the White House to request a special greeting from the President for:
the birth of a child,
anyone celebrating an 80th or older birthday,
anyone celebrating a 50th wedding anniversary.

The address is:
White House Greetings Office Room 39
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue
Washington, DC 20500

Music Muse

2009-01-12T12:56:00.003-05:00

I Hope You Dance

I hope you never lose your sense of wonder
You get your fill to eat
But always keep that hunger
May you never take one single breath for granted
God forbid love ever leave you empty handed
I hope you still feel small
When you stand by the ocean
Whenever one door closes, I hope one more opens
Promise me you'll give fate a fighting chance

And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance
I hope you dance
I hope you dance

I hope you never fear those mountains in the distance
Never settle for the path of least resistance
Living might mean taking chances
But they're worth taking
Lovin' might be a mistake
But it's worth making
Don't let some hell bent heart
Leave you bitter
When you come close to selling out
Reconsider
Give the heavens above
More than just a passing glance

And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance
I hope you dance
Time is a wheel in constant motion always
I hope you dance
Rolling us along
I hope you dance
Tell me who
I hope you dance
Wants to look back on their youth and wonder
Where those years have gone

I hope you still feel small
When you stand by the ocean
Whenever one door closes, I hope one more opens
Promise me you'll give fate a fighting chance
And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance
I hope you dance
I hope you dance
Time is a wheel in constant motion always
I hope you dance
Rolling us along
I hope you dance
Tell me who
Wants to look back on their youth and wonder
I hope you dance

Where those years have gone
Tell me who
I hope you dance
Wants to look back on their youth and wonder
Where those years have gone

These lyrics stir such deep emotions in me that I have to stop whatever I am doing when I hear this song. The rendition by LeeAnn Womack is powerful and beautiful.

What are your favorite lyrics? Share with me please. Use your favorite song/music/lyrics as inspiration to do your next layout.

Comic Book Creator

2009-01-12T09:58:00.001-05:00

Make hilarious photo comics about friends, family, and pets, or create an original comic book in minutes. It's drag-and-drop easy!

http://www.mycomicbookcreator.com/

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-25T11:41:00.001-05:00

The heart of Christmas

Once, some elementary school students were acting out the Christmas story for their winter play. A special needs child had the role of the innkeeper, the man who tells Mary and Joseph there is no room at the inn. Well, the night of the play, the audience watched as Joseph pleaded, "Please sir, my wife is going to have a baby." The innkeeper replied, "I'm sorry, we have no rooms." Again, Joseph begged, "But sir, please." This time, the boy playing the innkeeper had a pained look on his face, and then, from the heart of this special child, the audience heard, "Okay, you can have a room."

As it was more than 2,000 years ago, children are the heart of Christmas. And sometimes, it takes a child to remind us what Christmas is really all about. Watch this familiar video.

Merry Christmas!

31 Days of Holiday Crafts

2008-12-22T10:06:00.001-05:00

I was able to participate in 31 Days of Holiday Crafts at Angela's blog. Each month has a different theme and every day features a blogger, like you and me, related to the monthly theme. Go to A Month of Stuff to check out my interview about my favorite craft, scrapbooking, of course.

Scrapbook the Decor

2008-12-17T10:49:00.004-05:00

Check out the tabletop decorations you can make with scrapbook supplies.

3 Days of Thanksgiving - Day 3

2008-11-27T20:44:00.001-05:00

3 Days of Thanksgiving - Day 2

2008-11-26T20:42:00.001-05:00

3 Days of Thanksgiving

2008-11-25T20:37:00.001-05:00

For the next 3 days we will be counting down to Thanksgiving. As part of the countdown, I will be sharing vintage postcards. You are welcome to use them for your personal use. If you do use the postcards please credit me as the source of where you found them and please share your creative work here at 365 Day of Memories.