I'm almost to the point where I can begin constructing pages for the mini-album. I shiver with a girlish nervousness simply thinking of sitting down and beginning the first page.
I own a fair collection of Cricut cartridges; like everyone else, there are the go-to favourites. There's still so much uncovered possibilities in these cartridges; options available that have only been skimmed. For instance, I tried to make a card and envelope from one of my cartridges, and the effort was a miserable failure. This was in the early days with the Cricut, when getting the image I selected was magical. A few more hours under the belt, and I'm looking at some of the functions best left alone until now.
In the upcoming (and future) project, there are dozens of tags and envelopes to make. Though willing, the thought of constructing all these by hand, with only a limited supply of "hard" dies was painful. I pulled a dozen or so cartridges out to look at again and found (duh) that there were literally thousands of possibilities with the Cricut. The amount whittled down to three primary and a couple more secondary cartridges to work with. More interesting to discover was that some of the cartridges contained complimentary images to others.
Martin, at the least bit of prompting, hung the six-foot wire rack today. The hope was to transfer all the punches from the the shoe bag to the new rack.. He had no sooner packed the electric drill before I began moving punches. The result? Ugly. This will never work for what I imagined. Never. Had it been in the closet I could have lived with a little bit of ugly, but this is front and center of the entry into the room. Aaack! Instead, I've began loading the rack with "pretty" items taking valuable closet space. Such as: tatting thread, glass jars with colourful contents, all the bright colours of glitter and stickles, Tattered Angel bottles, etc. That takes care of the short shelves, but the wider spaced shelves on the bottom half stay empty for the time being. In the meantime, most of the punches are scattered between the table and closet floor.
Decisions, decisions... The SSD Annex hosts another 75% sale Tuesday through Friday this week. The scope of the 75% off is rather limited, but 10 sheets of name brand, heavy weight paper for $1.00 is worth the trip. There's more, but won't know what until getting there. Now it gets tricky. TM also brings out a new line of products at 66% off this Tuesday. The problem is money. Martin generously offered $50 split between each sale, because I'd already spent my allowance. What he may or may not realize it how hard it is to walk out of either for less than $60. I could be extra sneaky and take him with me! He's worse than I when it comes to, "Oh, you could really use this. Right?" Yes, I think so is the only reasonable reply. Honestly, there's not much more in supplies I need for now, but the hunt is highly addictive.
Time to wrangle up the punches!
Monday, April 30, 2012
Friday, April 27, 2012
G45 & Breakthrough
I've studied Graphic 45 papers, psychology, and its philosophy intensely for almost a week now. I think I understand the company. There's a reason beyond incredible graphic designs that make this paper unique; someone either at the company or hired by such studied scrapbookers practically under a microscope.
Nothing about this brand intimidates. I've began cutting away and there's a beauty in doing so. I'm so impressed with the company I already purchased the full line of the ABC Primer collection for Martin's hallmark childhood album. Around the end of May I'll order the Magic of Oz collection to highlight my lovely granddaughter's "Scare Crow" professional shoot. Maybe someday I'll actually pick out a few pieces of "regular" paper to scrap a page or two... but for now I'm having a blast learning to work with G45, including cutting out less than 1/2 inch butterflies for adornment.
So far my mini-album progress has advanced only to selecting coordinating buttons, ribbons, paint, chipboard, and pulling quotes out of my original baby book, now falling apart at the seams. Much of the next week will consist of cutting out elements. Hopefully, it will eventually begin to look like "something" instead of the mess currently on hand
Something clicked watching so many G45 scrapbooking videos. Planning a page up until very recently was a very involved and mind exhausting process. The other day I needed to quickly scrap a Futsbol series. (Before the pictures were accidentally misplaced) It took precisely 35 minutes from need to conception to completion to pull the page together. Better yet, it's one of the best LO I've done. Suddenly, the layering, framing, colour use, and element choice has become almost automatic. I can spot "wrong" in nothing flat. Not that I'll never commit the same crimes again, but I know it when it's there. Oh, but should all design go so smoothly in the future.
The cute shot reminder LO hangs on the icebox and has done wonders to prompt medication action in good time. More than that, it's caused me to look around the room to find the "blah" areas and throw something together to spice it up. In less than 10 minutes this evening, I brought back to the craft room the small, plain Crystal Light plastic container we've used for a couple of year to collect Box Tops for Education and Campbell's soup labels until delivery to school. It blended into the counter space, but the visible contents always made the container appear a tiny bit disorganized. To the results:
Breakthroughs are one of the best parts of the art! It's what drives us.
Nothing about this brand intimidates. I've began cutting away and there's a beauty in doing so. I'm so impressed with the company I already purchased the full line of the ABC Primer collection for Martin's hallmark childhood album. Around the end of May I'll order the Magic of Oz collection to highlight my lovely granddaughter's "Scare Crow" professional shoot. Maybe someday I'll actually pick out a few pieces of "regular" paper to scrap a page or two... but for now I'm having a blast learning to work with G45, including cutting out less than 1/2 inch butterflies for adornment.
So far my mini-album progress has advanced only to selecting coordinating buttons, ribbons, paint, chipboard, and pulling quotes out of my original baby book, now falling apart at the seams. Much of the next week will consist of cutting out elements. Hopefully, it will eventually begin to look like "something" instead of the mess currently on hand
 |
| Early Organization |
Something clicked watching so many G45 scrapbooking videos. Planning a page up until very recently was a very involved and mind exhausting process. The other day I needed to quickly scrap a Futsbol series. (Before the pictures were accidentally misplaced) It took precisely 35 minutes from need to conception to completion to pull the page together. Better yet, it's one of the best LO I've done. Suddenly, the layering, framing, colour use, and element choice has become almost automatic. I can spot "wrong" in nothing flat. Not that I'll never commit the same crimes again, but I know it when it's there. Oh, but should all design go so smoothly in the future.
The cute shot reminder LO hangs on the icebox and has done wonders to prompt medication action in good time. More than that, it's caused me to look around the room to find the "blah" areas and throw something together to spice it up. In less than 10 minutes this evening, I brought back to the craft room the small, plain Crystal Light plastic container we've used for a couple of year to collect Box Tops for Education and Campbell's soup labels until delivery to school. It blended into the counter space, but the visible contents always made the container appear a tiny bit disorganized. To the results:
 |
| A little "pretty" for the kitchen counter |
Breakthroughs are one of the best parts of the art! It's what drives us.
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
Not all Goes as Planned
Feeling much better now, thank you. There's still no clue as to what happened.
Much to my amazement, there are areas in life where paper, though decorative, doesn't enhance. The coloured pencil container - previously coffee container - came out splendidly. So, using great leaps of imagination and motivation, decided to decorate a few other recycled coffee tins.
{Before going forward with the story, it's necessary to note my husband is a closet garage hoarder. Only the garage. He'll come back and say it's my fault... blah, blah, blah. It most certainly is not. It's that I finally gave up trying to organize the area, only to find it totally junked up weeks later; wasted effort.}
Finding a particular item inside the garage is a daunting task. Not quite impossible, but we've lost 16x8x7 tents in there. I'll give credit and say he has a loose system of grouping like items in a particular part of the garage. He loves my homemade fire starters for BBQ and camping. He said he'd run out recently, and could I make some more?
This is where the story gets crazy. Why, we'll never know, but I decided to melt the paraffin so it would store neatly in three cans (first duh). Task finally completed, I though it would be nice to paper the exterior of the can to serve as a visual cue in the virtual wasteland. It finally hit me! Getting the paraffin out of the coffee cans would require heat... lots of it. Not so good for paper. What a total and complete flop. Live and learn! Is that funny, or not?
_______________________________________________
For my baby pictures mini-album, I'm currently studying every aspect of what makes a page work, or not. Since the album cover and pages will be created from cereal boxes, you can only imagine the intense labour required. From scratch! I only hope it begins to come together before the end of the year.
I gathered my baby pictures from all sorts of stashed areas yesterday, then decided which pictures to use. A huge task in and of itself. Now I have a good idea what size pockets to create. That's it so far.
The inspiration for all of this comes from a video from YouTube, from a user calling herself, Monkeydreamz1. Everything she does are pieces of art. Of course, I'll need to make many, many adjustments, beginning with painting the pages pastels instead of the bold black she (appropriately) uses in this video. I'm still looking forward to the project; but maybe because I haven't done anything but find pictures and collect chipboard, no labour as yet.
Much to my amazement, there are areas in life where paper, though decorative, doesn't enhance. The coloured pencil container - previously coffee container - came out splendidly. So, using great leaps of imagination and motivation, decided to decorate a few other recycled coffee tins.
{Before going forward with the story, it's necessary to note my husband is a closet garage hoarder. Only the garage. He'll come back and say it's my fault... blah, blah, blah. It most certainly is not. It's that I finally gave up trying to organize the area, only to find it totally junked up weeks later; wasted effort.}
Finding a particular item inside the garage is a daunting task. Not quite impossible, but we've lost 16x8x7 tents in there. I'll give credit and say he has a loose system of grouping like items in a particular part of the garage. He loves my homemade fire starters for BBQ and camping. He said he'd run out recently, and could I make some more?
This is where the story gets crazy. Why, we'll never know, but I decided to melt the paraffin so it would store neatly in three cans (first duh). Task finally completed, I though it would be nice to paper the exterior of the can to serve as a visual cue in the virtual wasteland. It finally hit me! Getting the paraffin out of the coffee cans would require heat... lots of it. Not so good for paper. What a total and complete flop. Live and learn! Is that funny, or not?
_______________________________________________
For my baby pictures mini-album, I'm currently studying every aspect of what makes a page work, or not. Since the album cover and pages will be created from cereal boxes, you can only imagine the intense labour required. From scratch! I only hope it begins to come together before the end of the year.
I gathered my baby pictures from all sorts of stashed areas yesterday, then decided which pictures to use. A huge task in and of itself. Now I have a good idea what size pockets to create. That's it so far.
The inspiration for all of this comes from a video from YouTube, from a user calling herself, Monkeydreamz1. Everything she does are pieces of art. Of course, I'll need to make many, many adjustments, beginning with painting the pages pastels instead of the bold black she (appropriately) uses in this video. I'm still looking forward to the project; but maybe because I haven't done anything but find pictures and collect chipboard, no labour as yet.
Sunday, April 22, 2012
Too Much Time
I somehow injured myself Thursday afternoon, and am still on the mend as of Sunday. There's not much to do during recovery but sit in the most comfy chair in the house; a chair that, by happenstance, resides in the craft room. (Bed rest can become quite painful after long stretches.)
And so, stuck in the craft room all weekend long, I spent the time trying new techniques; which has paid off handsomely... and organizing project where possible.
I completed the rooster/shot reminder page. There's a few areas most would call mistakes, but since it's not going anywhere but the inside the house, they remain as is.
At long last, I played with the chipboard available from my considerable cereal box collection. Pre-cut chipboard costs unimaginable pennies at the craft stores. I have Cricut, Cuttlebug and many Sizzix Bigz dies on hand. Both Cricut and Cuttlebug claim the ability to cut light weight chipboard, but until now, I've never put either to the test. The Cricut worked wonderfully. It requires a very stick mat and three multi-cuts. The selected image came out crisp and clear. The same goes for the Cuttlebug. I shouldn't've doubt, but the tendency to protect the equipment overrules challenges. I've also saved a fair amount of "white" chipboard from Sweet-N-Low packages that will finally be put to great use.
I also picked up my tatting materials, neglected for months now. Surprisingly, it all came back quite easily! The reason for review stems from the desire to use homemade lace on the mini-album planned. How sweet a touch this offers. Fortunately, I have the perfect pink, green, cream coordinating threads already on hand, but will need to search for baby blue and yellow; a far harder challenge than imagined. I can knock out several inches of lace in under an hour, so now I have something to do when there remains not an iota of creativity in store.
Loosely related to tatting was beading again. This, too, will add a personal touch to any layout in mind. Gosh, the only skill not put to use was using a floor loom to weave a carpet or something. :)
On to organization...
It only took a month, but every single scrap of paper bought at the 75% clearance sale last month is now put away and sorted. This took much, much longer than should have. But the exercise proves need for more storage solutions.
An essential tool for any scapper would be a clear pocketed, hanging jewelry bag hanging in a closet of or the back of a door. Small rubber stamps, bottles of embossing powders, ink pads, small packages of bling, tatting shuttles, ribbon scraps, and any number of small crafting items fit nicely in these relatively inexpensive bags. Target has a line of very sturdy organizers, and during a sale make them down-right cheap. At present, I only have one, but will pick up several more over the next few months.
After reading the post, it's scarey what gets done when my body is up to task!
And so, stuck in the craft room all weekend long, I spent the time trying new techniques; which has paid off handsomely... and organizing project where possible.
I completed the rooster/shot reminder page. There's a few areas most would call mistakes, but since it's not going anywhere but the inside the house, they remain as is.
 |
| Cute & functional medication reminder |
At long last, I played with the chipboard available from my considerable cereal box collection. Pre-cut chipboard costs unimaginable pennies at the craft stores. I have Cricut, Cuttlebug and many Sizzix Bigz dies on hand. Both Cricut and Cuttlebug claim the ability to cut light weight chipboard, but until now, I've never put either to the test. The Cricut worked wonderfully. It requires a very stick mat and three multi-cuts. The selected image came out crisp and clear. The same goes for the Cuttlebug. I shouldn't've doubt, but the tendency to protect the equipment overrules challenges. I've also saved a fair amount of "white" chipboard from Sweet-N-Low packages that will finally be put to great use.
I also picked up my tatting materials, neglected for months now. Surprisingly, it all came back quite easily! The reason for review stems from the desire to use homemade lace on the mini-album planned. How sweet a touch this offers. Fortunately, I have the perfect pink, green, cream coordinating threads already on hand, but will need to search for baby blue and yellow; a far harder challenge than imagined. I can knock out several inches of lace in under an hour, so now I have something to do when there remains not an iota of creativity in store.
Loosely related to tatting was beading again. This, too, will add a personal touch to any layout in mind. Gosh, the only skill not put to use was using a floor loom to weave a carpet or something. :)
On to organization...
It only took a month, but every single scrap of paper bought at the 75% clearance sale last month is now put away and sorted. This took much, much longer than should have. But the exercise proves need for more storage solutions.
An essential tool for any scapper would be a clear pocketed, hanging jewelry bag hanging in a closet of or the back of a door. Small rubber stamps, bottles of embossing powders, ink pads, small packages of bling, tatting shuttles, ribbon scraps, and any number of small crafting items fit nicely in these relatively inexpensive bags. Target has a line of very sturdy organizers, and during a sale make them down-right cheap. At present, I only have one, but will pick up several more over the next few months.
After reading the post, it's scarey what gets done when my body is up to task!
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
Stuff
My husband began a new diabetic medication, though while not insulin, does require two injections each day. He handles the morning dose just fine, but not so much with the pre-dinner shot.
I've decided to venture beyond scrapbooking proper and make a cute little 9x9 framed page to hopefully prompt his memory before dinner. Going all out, I'm working with colours and sizes never used before. It should do the trick; if not as a visual reminder, then as new splash of colour in a very monochromatic kitchen.
When I first began using the Cricut I counted a well-cut image miraculous. I stayed very, very basic with the cuts, and came to the point of frustration where I almost decided to sell the kit and kaboodle. Time and practice has refined enough to get the image I want every time. There's enough confidence to now have fun and play around. And... I no longer fear cutting the pattern on 15 different pages to get the results desired. The differences between the first successful cuts and what's put out today is remarkable! While still plenty of room to improve, it ain't half bad.
Thus far, I've given the mini-albums a mile-wide divide between them and me. No way, never going to happen! (That pesky word: never) Finally, at long last, I saw one of these, putting to great use the beautiful Graphic 45 paper. To put it simply, I was awestruck. This is what scrapbooking is all about!
Graphic 45 Mini Album at YouTube. I am going to shamelessly copy every little detail demonstrated in the video. I'll practice all the different techniques on less expensive paper, so maybe there will be two in the end... maybe three or twenty before getting it right?
During a total mental meltdown last night, I created a list of all the scrapbook paper/card stock packs. The list includes the manufacturer, size, dominate colours, coordinating accessories on hand, and special features such as maps, stamps, tickets, etc. There were almost 50 packs accumulated thus far... this is on the frightening side of paper obsession. This list does not include single patterned, themed papers, or special bonuses like vellum and transparencies. There must be a totally different approach to the 7 inch stack of primarily unsorted paper. Perhaps tomorrow I'll inventory the paper kits on hand; another 5 inch stack I've lost the ability to instantly recall. Stamps will have to follow at some point soon; just trying to think of the most effective way to accomplish/organize the system.
It doesn't get any simpler than this, but the dowel rod was finally hung in the closet (amazing dead space remains!) with three evenly spaced curtain rod support screws. Most ribbons fit on the rod, but a couple more spools will necessitate another row.
I ordered my first Cricut Cartridge since December. It was on the list and at the right price. What's up with eBay charging as much, or more, for these cartridges as can be bought in stores? I wouldn't have nearly the collection if most of these were bought at (usually) less than $20.
At long last, I want to offer praise to our Lord Jesus for answering a prayer thought unanswerable. Well, I knew He would! The answer came in the form of yet another miracle, but my God always does it in style. Thank you so very much, eternal praise for your faithfulness.
I've decided to venture beyond scrapbooking proper and make a cute little 9x9 framed page to hopefully prompt his memory before dinner. Going all out, I'm working with colours and sizes never used before. It should do the trick; if not as a visual reminder, then as new splash of colour in a very monochromatic kitchen.
When I first began using the Cricut I counted a well-cut image miraculous. I stayed very, very basic with the cuts, and came to the point of frustration where I almost decided to sell the kit and kaboodle. Time and practice has refined enough to get the image I want every time. There's enough confidence to now have fun and play around. And... I no longer fear cutting the pattern on 15 different pages to get the results desired. The differences between the first successful cuts and what's put out today is remarkable! While still plenty of room to improve, it ain't half bad.
 |
| A Cricut Rooster |
Thus far, I've given the mini-albums a mile-wide divide between them and me. No way, never going to happen! (That pesky word: never) Finally, at long last, I saw one of these, putting to great use the beautiful Graphic 45 paper. To put it simply, I was awestruck. This is what scrapbooking is all about!
Graphic 45 Mini Album at YouTube. I am going to shamelessly copy every little detail demonstrated in the video. I'll practice all the different techniques on less expensive paper, so maybe there will be two in the end... maybe three or twenty before getting it right?
During a total mental meltdown last night, I created a list of all the scrapbook paper/card stock packs. The list includes the manufacturer, size, dominate colours, coordinating accessories on hand, and special features such as maps, stamps, tickets, etc. There were almost 50 packs accumulated thus far... this is on the frightening side of paper obsession. This list does not include single patterned, themed papers, or special bonuses like vellum and transparencies. There must be a totally different approach to the 7 inch stack of primarily unsorted paper. Perhaps tomorrow I'll inventory the paper kits on hand; another 5 inch stack I've lost the ability to instantly recall. Stamps will have to follow at some point soon; just trying to think of the most effective way to accomplish/organize the system.
It doesn't get any simpler than this, but the dowel rod was finally hung in the closet (amazing dead space remains!) with three evenly spaced curtain rod support screws. Most ribbons fit on the rod, but a couple more spools will necessitate another row.
I ordered my first Cricut Cartridge since December. It was on the list and at the right price. What's up with eBay charging as much, or more, for these cartridges as can be bought in stores? I wouldn't have nearly the collection if most of these were bought at (usually) less than $20.
At long last, I want to offer praise to our Lord Jesus for answering a prayer thought unanswerable. Well, I knew He would! The answer came in the form of yet another miracle, but my God always does it in style. Thank you so very much, eternal praise for your faithfulness.
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
Cricut Mat Rescue The One That WORKS
I've watched way, way too many YouTube videos talking about the best method for removing the yunk off a a less-then-sticky Cricut cutting mats. There always seem to be many arduous steps involved in the process, not to mention extreme commitment of time. Some claim these steps are easy... anyone could do them with great results. Well, I've tried all the methods and they all involve WORK!
Have I ever mentioned how handy my husband comes in at the oddest moments? He stood back and watched yet another promised technique utterly fail. He walked out of the room and came back in with a bottle of of GOO GONE, and said, "try this." I did.
I generously sprayed the mat and let it sit for a minute. I took paper towels to remove almost all the oogie-gooy glue and tiny bits of paper scraps . I re-sprayed the mat, and one more wipe produced a virgin mat... except for all too-deep cuts. No kidding, this took less than five minutes, start to finish. I washed they mat with dish washing soap and hung it to dry; ready to spay adhesive.
After cleaning the first set of mats - well overused by this time - using this method, subsequent cleanings became a breeze.
Some might panic and say, this harsh chemical will harm the mats. I've now processed each mat four times, and nothing gets harmed... and cleaner much quicker
______________________________________________
Successfully completed the pastel-based ocean page. Thus far, I've only captured a fair representation, but it's not worth submitting anywhere but here.
Have I ever mentioned how handy my husband comes in at the oddest moments? He stood back and watched yet another promised technique utterly fail. He walked out of the room and came back in with a bottle of of GOO GONE, and said, "try this." I did.
I generously sprayed the mat and let it sit for a minute. I took paper towels to remove almost all the oogie-gooy glue and tiny bits of paper scraps . I re-sprayed the mat, and one more wipe produced a virgin mat... except for all too-deep cuts. No kidding, this took less than five minutes, start to finish. I washed they mat with dish washing soap and hung it to dry; ready to spay adhesive.
After cleaning the first set of mats - well overused by this time - using this method, subsequent cleanings became a breeze.
Some might panic and say, this harsh chemical will harm the mats. I've now processed each mat four times, and nothing gets harmed... and cleaner much quicker
______________________________________________
Successfully completed the pastel-based ocean page. Thus far, I've only captured a fair representation, but it's not worth submitting anywhere but here.
Sunday, April 15, 2012
Page Theme Issues
I'm still studying differences between good, great, and wow-za pages. And learned a couple of things today.
When putting together a page I pull out all the possible paper combinations, dies, stickers, stamps, etc I expect to use, or possibly use. Without exception, one element will capture my fancy and, wrong as it is, I'll walk on hot coals to incorporate it.
I'll use the project currently under construction to demonstrate this point.
The page features a trip to the ocean. The colour scheme runs to pastels. I also wanted to blend shabby chic with just a bit of whimsey. (Probably my first mistake) The element I fell head over heels in love with was a couple of starfish cut from a die, and stamped with a truly adorable face.
Cute as buttons. So far, no problem with page assembly. The starfish works well with the photo matting demonstrated in the photo. There are two photos featured that go on the page, one each for the right and left side. I set waves consisting of four layers of papers to create a bottom border for the page. (I cut and chalked a few fishes to appear to be jumping in and out of the waves. Darling!) The title will go in the upper right hand corner, and I plan to use three separate journaling boxes between the space of the two photos. So far, all works together very nicely...
But this is where this "hooked on an element" becomes a problem. I need "something" that binds the two pictures, and creates another layer of depth for the journaling boxes; perhaps a large strip of paper, 12x4 inches. When I laid the thick mid-line border across the page, I got "blah." I then began playing with one of the Tim Holtz masks picked up the other day. Love at first sight. That was the answer!! Except it wasn't. The chalked image creates a very formal setting. Not at all within the theme, nothing whimsical about it; however, I really, really want to use it.
So that's a huge chunk of my problem... choosing two non-complimentary elements to a page. I usually justify using both and calling it "mixed," but it's not. It just proves my lack of experience. Maybe someone with much more experience could pull it off, but I can't with goodly results.
Since I'm more than three-quarters finished with the page, it will have to be the flourish to go. This will be a first. It's a start in the right direction, however.
For now on I plan the page theme and keep cute away from formal. It can't hurt!
When putting together a page I pull out all the possible paper combinations, dies, stickers, stamps, etc I expect to use, or possibly use. Without exception, one element will capture my fancy and, wrong as it is, I'll walk on hot coals to incorporate it.
I'll use the project currently under construction to demonstrate this point.
The page features a trip to the ocean. The colour scheme runs to pastels. I also wanted to blend shabby chic with just a bit of whimsey. (Probably my first mistake) The element I fell head over heels in love with was a couple of starfish cut from a die, and stamped with a truly adorable face.
 |
| Blurry, but a fair representation for this purpose |
Cute as buttons. So far, no problem with page assembly. The starfish works well with the photo matting demonstrated in the photo. There are two photos featured that go on the page, one each for the right and left side. I set waves consisting of four layers of papers to create a bottom border for the page. (I cut and chalked a few fishes to appear to be jumping in and out of the waves. Darling!) The title will go in the upper right hand corner, and I plan to use three separate journaling boxes between the space of the two photos. So far, all works together very nicely...
But this is where this "hooked on an element" becomes a problem. I need "something" that binds the two pictures, and creates another layer of depth for the journaling boxes; perhaps a large strip of paper, 12x4 inches. When I laid the thick mid-line border across the page, I got "blah." I then began playing with one of the Tim Holtz masks picked up the other day. Love at first sight. That was the answer!! Except it wasn't. The chalked image creates a very formal setting. Not at all within the theme, nothing whimsical about it; however, I really, really want to use it.
 |
| A much smaller image than the mask I would use, but it's easy to see the formality. |
So that's a huge chunk of my problem... choosing two non-complimentary elements to a page. I usually justify using both and calling it "mixed," but it's not. It just proves my lack of experience. Maybe someone with much more experience could pull it off, but I can't with goodly results.
Since I'm more than three-quarters finished with the page, it will have to be the flourish to go. This will be a first. It's a start in the right direction, however.
For now on I plan the page theme and keep cute away from formal. It can't hurt!
Saturday, April 14, 2012
Gaining
I went to Fayetteville yesterday for a doctor appointment. While there I planned to hit JoAnne's and the TM rumoured to have a much better inventory selection for scrapbooking supplies. Imagine my surprise when TM was located in the same mall strip as HL! Well, that works out just fine. No doubt about it; the Fayetteville store was all promised... and more!
At present, I'm collecting as many Basic Grey paper packs as possible. (Only at greatly reduced prices, of course.) They had two large packs. Wow-za! The current passion for BG is that the company puts out an unique array of colours and patterns hard to find elsewhere. And the paper quality is great.
I love Tim Holtz products, but most large box stores charge exorbitant prices and the rare times put up for sale, it's less than a significant margin. Until yesterday my Tim Holtz inventory consisted of four distress ink pads, and about five Sizzix Bigz dies. I found two paper packs, a small and gigantic mask set, and a package of round cut out grunge board that I have NO idea how to put to use, but will eventually. There might have been other items, but it's all put away and nothing else comes to mind. (Oh! a butterfly border die!)
The grand find involved 7 Gypsies (yet another line tending on the expensive side). They had a super-sized stamp set, 64 individual stamps, with every warning one could ever think of stamping on a page or envelope when mailing.
Note: I need to rethink haul strategies.
Finally, though it's not related to scrapbooking, we stopped at a little antique/junk store I've wanted to visit every time we drive past it - 4 times every weekday. They had quite the assortment. Of all wonders, I found three history books published in the late 1800's, and a world atlas from 1937; pre-WWII era. They weren't in perfect condition, but still! While on the subject of books, the doctor gave me an outdated medical book for the asking. There's real scrapping potential with this one.
Now to the meat of this post.
One would expect a difference in quality between a new scrapper and one with six years under her belt. I can spot the difference in less than a second when browsing LOs at scrapbook.com. I suppose an innately artistic brain probably differentiates, also. I'm putting a great deal of effort trying to decipher the differences between amateur and professional work. So far, I've only been able to learn more advanced techniques, but haven't gotten the hang of combining these to make a WOW piece. They happen occasionally, but it's mostly by accident.
While browsing through more professional LOs today, I stumbled across Dusty Attic, a blog with blow-away tutorials. Maybe this will be the place, and ones similar to this, I can learn the tricks of the craft.
What would be absolutely wonderful would be to recruit a few semiprofessionals to not encourage the scrapper, but to critique works submitted. The submitters would put out their best examples and find where room for improvement exists. It would not necessarily be put-downs, but a place to learn, "this is good, but some shadowing would make a difference." The concept is good. Implementing it, another.
At present, I'm collecting as many Basic Grey paper packs as possible. (Only at greatly reduced prices, of course.) They had two large packs. Wow-za! The current passion for BG is that the company puts out an unique array of colours and patterns hard to find elsewhere. And the paper quality is great.
I love Tim Holtz products, but most large box stores charge exorbitant prices and the rare times put up for sale, it's less than a significant margin. Until yesterday my Tim Holtz inventory consisted of four distress ink pads, and about five Sizzix Bigz dies. I found two paper packs, a small and gigantic mask set, and a package of round cut out grunge board that I have NO idea how to put to use, but will eventually. There might have been other items, but it's all put away and nothing else comes to mind. (Oh! a butterfly border die!)
The grand find involved 7 Gypsies (yet another line tending on the expensive side). They had a super-sized stamp set, 64 individual stamps, with every warning one could ever think of stamping on a page or envelope when mailing.
Note: I need to rethink haul strategies.
Finally, though it's not related to scrapbooking, we stopped at a little antique/junk store I've wanted to visit every time we drive past it - 4 times every weekday. They had quite the assortment. Of all wonders, I found three history books published in the late 1800's, and a world atlas from 1937; pre-WWII era. They weren't in perfect condition, but still! While on the subject of books, the doctor gave me an outdated medical book for the asking. There's real scrapping potential with this one.
Now to the meat of this post.
One would expect a difference in quality between a new scrapper and one with six years under her belt. I can spot the difference in less than a second when browsing LOs at scrapbook.com. I suppose an innately artistic brain probably differentiates, also. I'm putting a great deal of effort trying to decipher the differences between amateur and professional work. So far, I've only been able to learn more advanced techniques, but haven't gotten the hang of combining these to make a WOW piece. They happen occasionally, but it's mostly by accident.
While browsing through more professional LOs today, I stumbled across Dusty Attic, a blog with blow-away tutorials. Maybe this will be the place, and ones similar to this, I can learn the tricks of the craft.
What would be absolutely wonderful would be to recruit a few semiprofessionals to not encourage the scrapper, but to critique works submitted. The submitters would put out their best examples and find where room for improvement exists. It would not necessarily be put-downs, but a place to learn, "this is good, but some shadowing would make a difference." The concept is good. Implementing it, another.
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
New Directions
I went to our "secret" scrapbooking shop today, who, by the way was supposed to have already moved, but hasn't, and was floored by how the inventory had shrank since our last visit. Plenty of stickers and one very sweet album kit begging to be bought! While pawing through what little inventory was available, I began speaking to a nice looking woman about scrapping in general. In one part of the conversation I mentioned that even though I'd been at the hobby for only one year, I still hadn't found anyone to share ideas, tips, and bond-ship with in this pursuit. That's taken care of now!!
She invited me to a small scrapbooking club her and about five other ladies put together. The next get-together is next week I think. Better yet, she talked about so many scrapbooking events around the area... largely unadvertised, but from the sounds of it: fun. Finally, she took a bold step and invited us to her church. Well! That was a heck of a deal. I'm thrilled beyond belief to finally hook up with other people with the same passions.
The store, in what I can only assume was a consolidation tactic, bound three to four sticker packs and sold the set as one. I would have gladly paid the asking price for any single set, but to get that many more at the same price was beyond temptation. I bought them all. There's plenty back in the stockroom, so this doesn't overly concern me; they'll pull out a bunch tomorrow. During the conversation, Crystal told me about this store being also in Fayetteville with a much larger show floor, and hence a larger selection of scrapbooking area. And it just so happens I'll be driving down there tomorrow.
I hoped over to HL (the two stores are in the same complex) and didn't hardly find anything. I did use the standard 40% coupon to buy a punch I've been watching for awhile. Mine, mine, mine!
The best part of all, predictably was the "chance" encounter with a scrapbooking enthusiast that will probably lead to meeting more people! God, truly is good.
She invited me to a small scrapbooking club her and about five other ladies put together. The next get-together is next week I think. Better yet, she talked about so many scrapbooking events around the area... largely unadvertised, but from the sounds of it: fun. Finally, she took a bold step and invited us to her church. Well! That was a heck of a deal. I'm thrilled beyond belief to finally hook up with other people with the same passions.
The store, in what I can only assume was a consolidation tactic, bound three to four sticker packs and sold the set as one. I would have gladly paid the asking price for any single set, but to get that many more at the same price was beyond temptation. I bought them all. There's plenty back in the stockroom, so this doesn't overly concern me; they'll pull out a bunch tomorrow. During the conversation, Crystal told me about this store being also in Fayetteville with a much larger show floor, and hence a larger selection of scrapbooking area. And it just so happens I'll be driving down there tomorrow.
I hoped over to HL (the two stores are in the same complex) and didn't hardly find anything. I did use the standard 40% coupon to buy a punch I've been watching for awhile. Mine, mine, mine!
The best part of all, predictably was the "chance" encounter with a scrapbooking enthusiast that will probably lead to meeting more people! God, truly is good.
Monday, April 9, 2012
Table, Organization & Tricky Deals
There's no comparison between my crafting table "during" the creation of a LO and the rare times when I'm not. One looks as if a slow motion explosion has taken place, and the other a nice orderly oasis of quiet. Without exception, and from a hard earned lesson, the table gets cleaned in between projects. I've said it a hundred times already, but I can't think with a disorganized mess in the line of site. I can't! In the future I'll have to make sure any haul mention will be during those times between projects. I want to start photographing/videoing them... for future reference. And that simply can't be done on a disorganized table.
I find that once again there are more scrap room organizational changes necessary. It's the paper! There's a small box sitting on the floor layered with colour coordinated long paper strips. There's no other place to file them neatly as they come in varying widths and lengths. I'm thinking the solution to this could involve using the shoe tree bag currently used for punches; but then, what with all the punches?
This, too, has become problematic lately since it's very difficult to find a particular punch within the current system. Punches don't file into neat categories, be that size or theme. The card ring with punched images is the only way of really knowing what I have available anymore. That's a real lifesaver. But most of the punches proper are heavy and restrict some options. Maybe....? We have a few open-wire baskets, primarily used with wire shelving systems out in the garage. (Always a treasure trove of storage possibilities!!!) I'm thinking using these at the back and hanging under of my craft table where they have both the weight and extra area to spread them out instead of riffling through small sleeves as required now. Each time I wanted a punch it would require bending over and crawling under the table; bothersome, but "do-able" until I come up with a better system, and to a certain extent, I'm already doing with the current system. The only other option would be to hang the other six-foot wire rack (the twin to the rack shown here) somewhere within the room. And, as these things go, doing so would require rearranging that area, also. Either way, something has to give somewhere.
The craft room was originally set up as the computer room. I hadn't actually began scrapping at that point. But, should we move again, the room would be set up specifically as a craft room, alleviating most of the organizational challenges dealt with over the past year. One thing for certain... that computer desk with hutch would never grace the room! I would certainly buy another crafting table instead. And paint the room in pink and lime green, if I want.
____________________________________________
I submitted the latest LO for the CSI challenge with only hours to spare, and then only after I decided to settle with the photography results on hand, which were all less than idealistic. Before this project, I never, in a million years, would have never considered the tricky problems with photographing a matte finished photo with a glossy. Well, I sure do now! I'm convinced that it can't be done. Oh, sure, hundreds of photographers would testify to the contrary. But not with MY skill set! I literally spent almost two hours, some with Martin's help, trying to capture a true page likeness. In every case it became a contest of shadows. Even though I had two different skies to work with - 1 sunny and 1 rainy - and an abundance of natural and artificial light sources, there was no coaxing out a single great photo. I guess the lesson taken from the experience is to consider this problem when thinking of using two different photo surfaces in the future.
All the myriad of talents learned thus far are about to be put to a functional use. My husband went on a new diabetic medication delivery program. It's not insulin, but he has to administer a shot within an hour of eating dinner, never after. He does well with the morning shot, but 9 times of 10, he forgets the evening dose. I'm about to put together a 6x6 or 8x8 cutely decorated page to remind him each evening. It will say something to the effect of: No pot before the shot, or some other silly thin. I can't wait to jump on this project. Just right after I pull together an awesomely adorable ocean themed LO. ;D
I find that once again there are more scrap room organizational changes necessary. It's the paper! There's a small box sitting on the floor layered with colour coordinated long paper strips. There's no other place to file them neatly as they come in varying widths and lengths. I'm thinking the solution to this could involve using the shoe tree bag currently used for punches; but then, what with all the punches?
 |
| Pink Shoe Bag, very weighted down |
This, too, has become problematic lately since it's very difficult to find a particular punch within the current system. Punches don't file into neat categories, be that size or theme. The card ring with punched images is the only way of really knowing what I have available anymore. That's a real lifesaver. But most of the punches proper are heavy and restrict some options. Maybe....? We have a few open-wire baskets, primarily used with wire shelving systems out in the garage. (Always a treasure trove of storage possibilities!!!) I'm thinking using these at the back and hanging under of my craft table where they have both the weight and extra area to spread them out instead of riffling through small sleeves as required now. Each time I wanted a punch it would require bending over and crawling under the table; bothersome, but "do-able" until I come up with a better system, and to a certain extent, I'm already doing with the current system. The only other option would be to hang the other six-foot wire rack (the twin to the rack shown here) somewhere within the room. And, as these things go, doing so would require rearranging that area, also. Either way, something has to give somewhere.
The craft room was originally set up as the computer room. I hadn't actually began scrapping at that point. But, should we move again, the room would be set up specifically as a craft room, alleviating most of the organizational challenges dealt with over the past year. One thing for certain... that computer desk with hutch would never grace the room! I would certainly buy another crafting table instead. And paint the room in pink and lime green, if I want.
____________________________________________
I submitted the latest LO for the CSI challenge with only hours to spare, and then only after I decided to settle with the photography results on hand, which were all less than idealistic. Before this project, I never, in a million years, would have never considered the tricky problems with photographing a matte finished photo with a glossy. Well, I sure do now! I'm convinced that it can't be done. Oh, sure, hundreds of photographers would testify to the contrary. But not with MY skill set! I literally spent almost two hours, some with Martin's help, trying to capture a true page likeness. In every case it became a contest of shadows. Even though I had two different skies to work with - 1 sunny and 1 rainy - and an abundance of natural and artificial light sources, there was no coaxing out a single great photo. I guess the lesson taken from the experience is to consider this problem when thinking of using two different photo surfaces in the future.
 |
| The problematic glossy photo! Urg! |
All the myriad of talents learned thus far are about to be put to a functional use. My husband went on a new diabetic medication delivery program. It's not insulin, but he has to administer a shot within an hour of eating dinner, never after. He does well with the morning shot, but 9 times of 10, he forgets the evening dose. I'm about to put together a 6x6 or 8x8 cutely decorated page to remind him each evening. It will say something to the effect of: No pot before the shot, or some other silly thin. I can't wait to jump on this project. Just right after I pull together an awesomely adorable ocean themed LO. ;D
Thursday, April 5, 2012
Latest LO
The LO mentioned last post is now 99.9% complete. There's a journaling note required completely forgotten about. I think it looks tacky, but may be able to correct it with some glitter in the morning. (This tag will be removed before framing the page.) The only other item left to attend involves good sunlight, camera and tripod. I'll edit this post to include the photo after a satisfactory picture is cropped and sharpened.
This LO has much more white space than I'm accustomed to allowing, but in doing so I've allowed the eye to draw to the ares that were most important, or important as I saw it.
The photo of Martin and I used on the page is one of my all-time favourites!! There's a little bit of silliness, and a whole lot of adoration caught at the most perfect moment. I knew this would be the first photograph of the both of us to scrap when the right combination of time, inspiration and motivation hit. And it did.
It probably gets old, but I'm proud of the display. I take pride in all the LO's done, but some don't have the same ooomph that rare others do. This is one that gets framed and posted in our bedroom, along with the birthday "card" page completed last November. Finally! Some "art" for the room. (Term used loosely.)
Even though decorating the coloured pencil bucket was a little over the top, I am proud of it. Tonight while perusing YouTube, I found several videos featuring decked-out ATG guns. Some looked professional, some looked as if they graduated 1st grade colouring class and never advanced from there. It's theirs, and as long as they take pride in it, that's all that matters. So now I'm thinking... given some down time, it might just be worth the effort to follow suit. No doubt whatever I do will end up looking like the 1st grade child that failed that colouring class. LOL.
Next week I hope to knock out three or four "everyday" scrapbook pages. There's currently two semi-assembled pages featuring Johnna and her quirky ideas of scrap worthy events. One involves all the not-so-major scraps, bruises, and rashes she proudly displayed for the camera, and the other concerns her foot and hand prints at age ten. (Actually I thought of it, and she jumped at the notion.) Also thought upon, but as yet began, are the 2012 snow photos and a few more pages from this past Christmas.
This LO has much more white space than I'm accustomed to allowing, but in doing so I've allowed the eye to draw to the ares that were most important, or important as I saw it.
The photo of Martin and I used on the page is one of my all-time favourites!! There's a little bit of silliness, and a whole lot of adoration caught at the most perfect moment. I knew this would be the first photograph of the both of us to scrap when the right combination of time, inspiration and motivation hit. And it did.
It probably gets old, but I'm proud of the display. I take pride in all the LO's done, but some don't have the same ooomph that rare others do. This is one that gets framed and posted in our bedroom, along with the birthday "card" page completed last November. Finally! Some "art" for the room. (Term used loosely.)
Even though decorating the coloured pencil bucket was a little over the top, I am proud of it. Tonight while perusing YouTube, I found several videos featuring decked-out ATG guns. Some looked professional, some looked as if they graduated 1st grade colouring class and never advanced from there. It's theirs, and as long as they take pride in it, that's all that matters. So now I'm thinking... given some down time, it might just be worth the effort to follow suit. No doubt whatever I do will end up looking like the 1st grade child that failed that colouring class. LOL.
Next week I hope to knock out three or four "everyday" scrapbook pages. There's currently two semi-assembled pages featuring Johnna and her quirky ideas of scrap worthy events. One involves all the not-so-major scraps, bruises, and rashes she proudly displayed for the camera, and the other concerns her foot and hand prints at age ten. (Actually I thought of it, and she jumped at the notion.) Also thought upon, but as yet began, are the 2012 snow photos and a few more pages from this past Christmas.
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
Colour Combo
I enjoy the challenges presented by CSI. The entire point of the site is to encourage the scrapper to use five colour combinations normally not easily put to work together. As so it is this week, also. Another feature of the weekly challenges is incorporating shapes, elements or themes, often together. And not least of all, journaling is part of the creation; this isn't a problem for me as I try to always journal about the subject or event represented.
This week they assembled a colour chart of a mustard, two tones of taupe, one green, and a sky blue. I had no problem pulling all the colours from on-hand papers and putting them together in an attractive manner, but when I tried to use the blue as a background colour it clashed to high heavens. The colours behind the heart photo are the actual colour combinations for this week.
Since there's no requisite size of the colours, they can be nothing more than accent pieces, or completely dominate the page... so long as it's there, it's all good.
I got very, very sneaky. I glued sky blue gemstones to the cut out hearts I made for the project. And though the gemstones in the second picture are not set yet, I managed to pull the blue up to the upper portion of the page. (What a beautiful picture of Martin and me!)
There are times when I have to think outside the box. It's very easy to slip into one style of layout, using the same materials and colours. I don't think this would have ever come to mind had I not been challenged to fit together elements not normally used, but sure am glad that I did.
This week they assembled a colour chart of a mustard, two tones of taupe, one green, and a sky blue. I had no problem pulling all the colours from on-hand papers and putting them together in an attractive manner, but when I tried to use the blue as a background colour it clashed to high heavens. The colours behind the heart photo are the actual colour combinations for this week.
Since there's no requisite size of the colours, they can be nothing more than accent pieces, or completely dominate the page... so long as it's there, it's all good.
I got very, very sneaky. I glued sky blue gemstones to the cut out hearts I made for the project. And though the gemstones in the second picture are not set yet, I managed to pull the blue up to the upper portion of the page. (What a beautiful picture of Martin and me!)
There are times when I have to think outside the box. It's very easy to slip into one style of layout, using the same materials and colours. I don't think this would have ever come to mind had I not been challenged to fit together elements not normally used, but sure am glad that I did.
Sunday, April 1, 2012
Quick Tip
When there's a need of a line of embellishments such as tags, pictures, etc, and absolute perfection is not critical, there's a method I found that eliminates rulers, pencil marks, or crimped paper.
Using a 12x12 cutting map I use a large rubber band expanded over and around the mat. Assure the rubber band is resting on a designated mark on both sides, and not twisted. Pull the background between the rubber band and mat, marry the top or bottom of the pulled through paper to a predetermined guide mark on the mat. Line the objects upon the rubber bands once adhesives are attached and use care to place the bottom or top of the element just over/under the band while carefully not moving the placement of the band.
Works like a charm every time!
Using a 12x12 cutting map I use a large rubber band expanded over and around the mat. Assure the rubber band is resting on a designated mark on both sides, and not twisted. Pull the background between the rubber band and mat, marry the top or bottom of the pulled through paper to a predetermined guide mark on the mat. Line the objects upon the rubber bands once adhesives are attached and use care to place the bottom or top of the element just over/under the band while carefully not moving the placement of the band.
Works like a charm every time!
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