No pictures, not even a real update. And, not a whole lot of time creating.
Skill development. Lots to say about it. I became quite adept at using the ATG only to learn this wasn't the best long-term adhesive. Then I learned to use both the red sticky and score tapes. A huge step up, but it still took time to become proficient. I've since learned wet glue tops all the others. How hard could it be to learn to use a better medium? Well, a whole lot. It isn't working for me. Practice makes perfect, yes, but I want to do something rather than perfecting a skill. So, maybe the next project will involve glue but for this album the best it's going to get is the score tape. I really want to get through the Little Darlings album. There's so much more to do than to stay stuck on one project for what seems forever; although I'm having a blast putting it together. This is the fun part, right?
I might get to make a few new friends. A lady and her daughter (or perhaps just the daughter?) have recently gotten into scrapbooking and the mister offered to allow me to show off some of the tools of the trade and perhaps share a couple tips picked up along the way. This could be the greatest! The more the merrier.
Got the Graphic 45 Tropical Travelogue paper today. My bad, it was only published this year. Why, then, is it so hard buying the collection from one source? Mysteries of our universe.
Showing posts with label new skills. Show all posts
Showing posts with label new skills. Show all posts
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
Monday, June 11, 2012
Leaping Tall Buildings in a Single Bound
I knocked out a mini this weekend! The construction was heavily guided by professional construction techniques, but that I was able to quickly follow the instructions and pull it together is nothing short of miracle material! There's hope yet.
The album still lacks tags/photo mats. Tags are proving to be a creative millstone. Since the event for which the album was designed hasn't taken place yet, how is one to know how many to make and at what sizes? Intuitively, one would think to design for the standard 4x6 photo; yet, not many of the photos I work with end up without a bit of cropping. Further, does the album serve to showcase the photos, or do the photos work to fill out the album? Two of the minis in the planning stages at present are being constructed with all the photos I want to exhibit, so say I need to create six 3.5x3.5 mats and four 3x5's. This knowledge makes it more, or less, of a challenge depending on perspective. I'm planning on making one mini as a Christmas present for someone this year and until I can figure out how to solve this puzzle, it's going to create all sorts of anxiety.
I spent over an hour looking for a product made by a company based in the U.K. Magnetic clasps, of all things. I love the way these closures look on the videos; so classy and professional. The first problem was not knowing the product's description. Then on to find a company selling this style of magnets in the U.S. And finally, to find it reasonably priced. Described, found, and bought... all only a few mouse clicks away.
Something solid clicked in this marginally functioning brain. I'm suddenly able to see not only how the paper will look on the page, but able to visualize the background work needed before mounting the page to maximize function; setting eyelets, brads, stitching, ribbons, pockets, etc. Best yet, this is happening before it's too late... that's kind of key to the point. Before this, I would realize "something" needed to happen, but not the when and where, and quite frequently slap myself upside the head realizing the task one step too late, forcing less than impressive corrections. I get so excited upon discovery of another hurdle successfully jumped.
I've come to believe the more page construction techniques available to assembling mini-albums, the better and quicker the project goes. I'm currently creating a library of different page design templates. I had an "ah ha!" moment a few days ago, when thinking about a page style not seen before. It was based on the memo boards constructed with latticed ribbon. Of all the scores upon scores of YouTube videos watched, I'd never seen one. Then last night I happened upon the exact design I had pictured. At least I now know it's perfectly feasible. I digress, back to page design resources. The more the better, but I wonder at this point if there might be a magic formula to how certain designs work with others. Beyond that, I suspect a repetition of a few patterns within a project would present far better than a random selection; perhaps too chaotic and showing off. It's easy getting the impression I'm re-inventing the wheel when it comes to many of the technique and design issues as they arise. No doubt.
Another hard-earned tip to share. The Fiskars personal trimmer began putting out very unreliable cuts. Were the guidelines somehow knocked askew? But then, not having any idea why, it would randomly put out perfect cuts. I finally concluded the inconsistency had to do with the angle the blade was being pushed down the wire. Sitting down, working from the right or left created a slight pull to the guide wire when cutting. Standing up straight (or at least paying attention to hand placement) over the top of the cutter made a precision cut. And to think I was ready to toss the tool in the trash due to sheer frustration.
So much detail never explained to the novice... as if the novice could take all the vast body of knowledge in over a couple of settings. Maybe there's a book in here somewhere.
The album still lacks tags/photo mats. Tags are proving to be a creative millstone. Since the event for which the album was designed hasn't taken place yet, how is one to know how many to make and at what sizes? Intuitively, one would think to design for the standard 4x6 photo; yet, not many of the photos I work with end up without a bit of cropping. Further, does the album serve to showcase the photos, or do the photos work to fill out the album? Two of the minis in the planning stages at present are being constructed with all the photos I want to exhibit, so say I need to create six 3.5x3.5 mats and four 3x5's. This knowledge makes it more, or less, of a challenge depending on perspective. I'm planning on making one mini as a Christmas present for someone this year and until I can figure out how to solve this puzzle, it's going to create all sorts of anxiety.
I spent over an hour looking for a product made by a company based in the U.K. Magnetic clasps, of all things. I love the way these closures look on the videos; so classy and professional. The first problem was not knowing the product's description. Then on to find a company selling this style of magnets in the U.S. And finally, to find it reasonably priced. Described, found, and bought... all only a few mouse clicks away.
Something solid clicked in this marginally functioning brain. I'm suddenly able to see not only how the paper will look on the page, but able to visualize the background work needed before mounting the page to maximize function; setting eyelets, brads, stitching, ribbons, pockets, etc. Best yet, this is happening before it's too late... that's kind of key to the point. Before this, I would realize "something" needed to happen, but not the when and where, and quite frequently slap myself upside the head realizing the task one step too late, forcing less than impressive corrections. I get so excited upon discovery of another hurdle successfully jumped.
I've come to believe the more page construction techniques available to assembling mini-albums, the better and quicker the project goes. I'm currently creating a library of different page design templates. I had an "ah ha!" moment a few days ago, when thinking about a page style not seen before. It was based on the memo boards constructed with latticed ribbon. Of all the scores upon scores of YouTube videos watched, I'd never seen one. Then last night I happened upon the exact design I had pictured. At least I now know it's perfectly feasible. I digress, back to page design resources. The more the better, but I wonder at this point if there might be a magic formula to how certain designs work with others. Beyond that, I suspect a repetition of a few patterns within a project would present far better than a random selection; perhaps too chaotic and showing off. It's easy getting the impression I'm re-inventing the wheel when it comes to many of the technique and design issues as they arise. No doubt.
Another hard-earned tip to share. The Fiskars personal trimmer began putting out very unreliable cuts. Were the guidelines somehow knocked askew? But then, not having any idea why, it would randomly put out perfect cuts. I finally concluded the inconsistency had to do with the angle the blade was being pushed down the wire. Sitting down, working from the right or left created a slight pull to the guide wire when cutting. Standing up straight (or at least paying attention to hand placement) over the top of the cutter made a precision cut. And to think I was ready to toss the tool in the trash due to sheer frustration.
So much detail never explained to the novice... as if the novice could take all the vast body of knowledge in over a couple of settings. Maybe there's a book in here somewhere.
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
Persistence
Persistence pays, but oh boy at what a cost!!
I've decided mini-albums fit our lifestyle better than the 12x12 inch layouts. Everything has a place and purpose, so I'll never totally abandon the larger version; perhaps the "best of the very best" annual album, or something along those lines. From now on, most of my creative energy will go into the mini's.
With that thought in mind, I've come to the solid conviction made-from-scratch mini's are probably best left to professionals. I hate, (scorn, despise, revolt, etc) putting out inferior products. There are allowances for skills not yet mastered, but not by much. There has to be an exponential learning curve to scrapbooking skills, but more rational people would try to master one before going on to the next. Not I, heavens no! I want to master it all in one horse pill sized, gagging swallow.
If there's a mistake to be made, almost corrected, and the same mistake made again, I'll do it every time; hands down. Subsequently, a weekend project for most will take the weekend and the following week - and that's if I'm lucky. It can be so very discouraging. Fortunately, persistence runs in my DNA or this hobby would have been abandoned months ago.
At present I'm learning everything possible about book binding. There are as many techniques as skilled crafters out there, but a couple of methods keep popping up as the most reasonable and flexible. Maybe, if I can calm my butt down, I'll get reasonable skilled at this. But not today. Oh, no, not when this skill was critical to the project. In common fashion, I'll have to put the project aside for a few days and practice this new skill until proficient. That's why the weekend project takes ten or more days to complete. Every project taken on has a whole new area of discovery, and learning.
On a more positive note, I've mastered a few skills; which makes a significant advancement for timely project completion. (Down from three weeks to ten days.)
I've discussed adhesives before. It comes as a surprise to learn there's more to learn. When using the highest quality adhesives, there are tricks to make a tighter bond. Burnishing goes a very long with with tape adhesives, and the brayer does a great job with wet glues. The demands on adhesives are taken to new heights with all the moving and swing parts of the mini. This was yet another hard learned lesson.
It's no secret I'm totally smitten with Graphic 45 papers. I kept running into BoBunny projects and couldn't resist picking up a pack at one of my last hauls. The colours are very soothing and even the brighter packs have a subtle tinting. I simply can't wait to tear into this first package! Someone special on my list will receive a very, very nice Christmas present this year.
It's possible I forget to post the adapted shoe organizer photo.
Just for kicks I decided to begin hanging some of my favourite embellishments on the 6x2 cork board running along the desks back panel. I've only just started, but it's way too cute not to share.
I've decided mini-albums fit our lifestyle better than the 12x12 inch layouts. Everything has a place and purpose, so I'll never totally abandon the larger version; perhaps the "best of the very best" annual album, or something along those lines. From now on, most of my creative energy will go into the mini's.
With that thought in mind, I've come to the solid conviction made-from-scratch mini's are probably best left to professionals. I hate, (scorn, despise, revolt, etc) putting out inferior products. There are allowances for skills not yet mastered, but not by much. There has to be an exponential learning curve to scrapbooking skills, but more rational people would try to master one before going on to the next. Not I, heavens no! I want to master it all in one horse pill sized, gagging swallow.
If there's a mistake to be made, almost corrected, and the same mistake made again, I'll do it every time; hands down. Subsequently, a weekend project for most will take the weekend and the following week - and that's if I'm lucky. It can be so very discouraging. Fortunately, persistence runs in my DNA or this hobby would have been abandoned months ago.
At present I'm learning everything possible about book binding. There are as many techniques as skilled crafters out there, but a couple of methods keep popping up as the most reasonable and flexible. Maybe, if I can calm my butt down, I'll get reasonable skilled at this. But not today. Oh, no, not when this skill was critical to the project. In common fashion, I'll have to put the project aside for a few days and practice this new skill until proficient. That's why the weekend project takes ten or more days to complete. Every project taken on has a whole new area of discovery, and learning.
On a more positive note, I've mastered a few skills; which makes a significant advancement for timely project completion. (Down from three weeks to ten days.)
I've discussed adhesives before. It comes as a surprise to learn there's more to learn. When using the highest quality adhesives, there are tricks to make a tighter bond. Burnishing goes a very long with with tape adhesives, and the brayer does a great job with wet glues. The demands on adhesives are taken to new heights with all the moving and swing parts of the mini. This was yet another hard learned lesson.
It's no secret I'm totally smitten with Graphic 45 papers. I kept running into BoBunny projects and couldn't resist picking up a pack at one of my last hauls. The colours are very soothing and even the brighter packs have a subtle tinting. I simply can't wait to tear into this first package! Someone special on my list will receive a very, very nice Christmas present this year.
It's possible I forget to post the adapted shoe organizer photo.
 |
| Most stamps & some punches |
Just for kicks I decided to begin hanging some of my favourite embellishments on the 6x2 cork board running along the desks back panel. I've only just started, but it's way too cute not to share.
 |
| Embellishments! |
Thursday, May 3, 2012
Discovered UTEE
Something about funds, or lack thereof, altered my plans to attend the SSD warehouse sale. It wasn't meant to be. I did, however, stop by the tiny TM in Rogers and found the Crop-a-Dile Main Squeeze for pennies on the dollar. Upon further inspection, I'm not sure the investment was a good one. The concept is great, and if embellishments outside what the company offers work, the story changes. Otherwise, this will be a very expensive press... for garlic maybe??? What's really needed is the Crop-a-Dile II.
I've owned Glossy Accents for a number of months now, but let it set because it seemed too expensive to use, and embossing powders gave a bit of shine where needed. In the making of the mini-album, I hauled the bottle out... and WOW! How did I do this without the glossy bling? What I didn't realize after this discovery, until seeing it on YouTube, was that the surface had only been scratched, so to speak. The next step up is the Ultra Thick Embossing Enamel (UTEE). Playing with it when it comes into the house will probably set the album back a few days, but this is a tool to master. I'm wondering if this could change the way I look at charms; they are much too expensive for general use right now, and want to change this.
_______________________________
Speaking of the mini-album (what else these days?) I decided to make the ABC Primer documenting my husband's childhood days photographs before starting the one intended for me. I found a video with step-by-step instructions on YouTube (where else?) that's perfect for my current skill level.
This is a great introduction since the lines run very straight, without all the flourishes and complicated cuts planned for the other book. I'm learning exponentially at present, and it's all to the good! I'm lifting the book straight from her design, but can't help but think that anyone who makes 18 videos outlining every step and cut minds being copied. (Trying to sell the album as my own design would be less than ethical, but that's not a problem.)
________________________________
I absolutely adore the two stencil sets bought from Kiwi Lane Designs. Since discovering the site, they've had only one sale, just before Christmas, nothing since. This Saturday they're having another. There would be nothing more pleasing than having everything they make, but that's unreasonable. I will settle by buying only one more set to add to the collection this go round... darn.
__________________________________
I'm having a blast decorating containers and house decorations. One of the latest creations, for the coloured pencils collected over the past 20 years or so:
I've owned Glossy Accents for a number of months now, but let it set because it seemed too expensive to use, and embossing powders gave a bit of shine where needed. In the making of the mini-album, I hauled the bottle out... and WOW! How did I do this without the glossy bling? What I didn't realize after this discovery, until seeing it on YouTube, was that the surface had only been scratched, so to speak. The next step up is the Ultra Thick Embossing Enamel (UTEE). Playing with it when it comes into the house will probably set the album back a few days, but this is a tool to master. I'm wondering if this could change the way I look at charms; they are much too expensive for general use right now, and want to change this.
Speaking of the mini-album (what else these days?) I decided to make the ABC Primer documenting my husband's childhood days photographs before starting the one intended for me. I found a video with step-by-step instructions on YouTube (where else?) that's perfect for my current skill level.
This is a great introduction since the lines run very straight, without all the flourishes and complicated cuts planned for the other book. I'm learning exponentially at present, and it's all to the good! I'm lifting the book straight from her design, but can't help but think that anyone who makes 18 videos outlining every step and cut minds being copied. (Trying to sell the album as my own design would be less than ethical, but that's not a problem.)
________________________________
I absolutely adore the two stencil sets bought from Kiwi Lane Designs. Since discovering the site, they've had only one sale, just before Christmas, nothing since. This Saturday they're having another. There would be nothing more pleasing than having everything they make, but that's unreasonable. I will settle by buying only one more set to add to the collection this go round... darn.
__________________________________
I'm having a blast decorating containers and house decorations. One of the latest creations, for the coloured pencils collected over the past 20 years or so:
 |
| Quickie Photo |
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.
Friday, March 23, 2012
Ca-rot Top
I've been wanting to scrap this page for a long time now. The only problem is the quality of the picture. The back lighting from the bathroom window probably caused the extreme shading of the photo. This is really disappointing, but was done before I began working on my photography "skills." Don't think the same mistake would be made today, or at least would hope not.
The page is about a silly idea we came up with after cutting the top of a carrot that had greenery left in place. The thought was that if we planted it, we would have a nice carrot at then end. It got really bushy and healthy looking for about 2 months, but suddenly wilted. The time was right for my helper to harvest. After a hefty tug, all that came up was a green bunch of wilted leaves. No carrot. No roots. The whole episode turned into a very fun memory... hence the desire to document the event despite the lousy photo.
Entering contests on CSI.com's site has opened me up to using colours in a way I might not have thought before. I still lack real courage, but this is a learning process!
About six months ago I stumbled upon an adorable pet-themed paper pack on sale. The pages were absolutely adorable, but until this project I had no clue where to use the paper. Now unleashed, there's many, many projects that come to mind using this paper. This is how it goes with most all the paper pads bought along the way. As a side note... although the camera doesn't capture it, the rabbit is actually flocked.
I created the flower and carrot sign for embellishments. The banner in the top right and the title located at the top left are commercial products. The carrots are the crowning achievement on this page. I used the Cricut to cut the shape, but the paper I wanted to use wasn't large enough to accommodate the full shape I had to start with, so in the end had to trace and manually cut the actual cutout onto paper originally planned for use; all done with very satisfactory results. I then generously inked the carrots and leaves, and if I don't say so myself, did an excellent job on shading.
The most demanding aspect in presenting scrapped pages into digital images is capturing the true colours. For that, I'm still experimenting with lighting techniques. Too much light and the photo turns out washed; too little and all is dimmed (as in this case). I believe setting up a shoot in diffused sunlight works best. I may have found the solution for taking perfectly square photos for cropping. There is an adapter to the tripod that extends an arm that in turn holds the camera directly over the center of the subject. The centering is most critical for cropping; any deviation in angle distorts captured lines. These devices run anywhere between $35-60, but Martin thinks he can build one for under $10. The question at that point is when he'll have time to get to do it. I'll give him two months after the promise, but if there are no results, it's off to the store for the extension bar.
The page is about a silly idea we came up with after cutting the top of a carrot that had greenery left in place. The thought was that if we planted it, we would have a nice carrot at then end. It got really bushy and healthy looking for about 2 months, but suddenly wilted. The time was right for my helper to harvest. After a hefty tug, all that came up was a green bunch of wilted leaves. No carrot. No roots. The whole episode turned into a very fun memory... hence the desire to document the event despite the lousy photo.
Entering contests on CSI.com's site has opened me up to using colours in a way I might not have thought before. I still lack real courage, but this is a learning process!
About six months ago I stumbled upon an adorable pet-themed paper pack on sale. The pages were absolutely adorable, but until this project I had no clue where to use the paper. Now unleashed, there's many, many projects that come to mind using this paper. This is how it goes with most all the paper pads bought along the way. As a side note... although the camera doesn't capture it, the rabbit is actually flocked.
I created the flower and carrot sign for embellishments. The banner in the top right and the title located at the top left are commercial products. The carrots are the crowning achievement on this page. I used the Cricut to cut the shape, but the paper I wanted to use wasn't large enough to accommodate the full shape I had to start with, so in the end had to trace and manually cut the actual cutout onto paper originally planned for use; all done with very satisfactory results. I then generously inked the carrots and leaves, and if I don't say so myself, did an excellent job on shading.
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| My Carrot Job |
The most demanding aspect in presenting scrapped pages into digital images is capturing the true colours. For that, I'm still experimenting with lighting techniques. Too much light and the photo turns out washed; too little and all is dimmed (as in this case). I believe setting up a shoot in diffused sunlight works best. I may have found the solution for taking perfectly square photos for cropping. There is an adapter to the tripod that extends an arm that in turn holds the camera directly over the center of the subject. The centering is most critical for cropping; any deviation in angle distorts captured lines. These devices run anywhere between $35-60, but Martin thinks he can build one for under $10. The question at that point is when he'll have time to get to do it. I'll give him two months after the promise, but if there are no results, it's off to the store for the extension bar.
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