Two Crafting Sisters

Week 1 Big Picture Class

2012-02-15T06:00:00.003-05:00

I started my Big Picture class "The Curious Scrapbooker" this week. (link to the side). May Flaum is the teacher, and she started us off with misting and washes. This is something I haven't worked with in quite awhile, so it was a challenge, but once I got into it, a heck of a lot of fun!

I decided to make some tags using the different techniques. May shared a cool technique where you rub your Tim Holtz distress ink on the craft sheet, add a drop of water, and it makes a cool wash. I tried this with the tags as the background layer. Found some cool stamp designs to play with, so that was the next layer. Then she challenged us to use mists and stencils, so I played with that next (the Tim Holtz compass stencil).

Added gears and a bit of white pen to the first tag.

Liked the spray mist effect on the second tag, so stopped with that.

For my third tag, I added a gold shimmer spray, and a bit of white ink.

I had a lot of fun playing with some of my stash that I haven't used in way too long. I also really enjoyed creating the tags with one of my favorite styles - SteamPunk!

Valentine Goodies

2012-02-13T06:00:00.014-05:00

Here are this year's Valentine's Day goodies. I hadn't made this style yet and remembered Maura's version (HERE) so I decided to try it out. I really like them. Simple but still very cute.

I like the added detail of the crimped ends. I honestly think this was the first time that I ever used that tool but I sure am glad I had it!

Here's how:

Video from Splitcoaststampers.

Happy Valentine's Day!

Tara Burtt Stars!

2012-02-12T12:45:00.002-05:00

Tara is in the news! At 8:30 this morning, she starred on Channel 13 and did a great segment on how to create this page.

Beautiful photo of her parents, Nick and Maria!

Congratulations on presenting your Valentine's Day page to the world, Tara!

Photo Transfers

2012-02-11T06:00:00.001-05:00

In case you missed it, Lori from My Craft Channel shared four different techniques for doing photo transfers this week including tissue paper, waxed paper, transparencies and gel medium. Lots of useful information.

Check out the episode HERE.

And she shares even more on her blog HERE.

Cropical Getaway

2012-02-08T06:00:00.000-05:00

Our "fearless" leaders on the cropical getaway! Wild and crazy!!

The "boat" is packed full of smiling passengers!

Card class offered at the crop - love the colors!

Snow banner class - a reminder that there is snow somewhere...

Art Gathering "Tea Party"

2012-02-06T06:00:00.000-05:00

Definitely a fun and fabulous time with friends!

Our project and all these wonderful tea goodies!

Blog Challenge: Maura's second project

2012-02-04T06:00:00.057-05:00

Once again Sheila, you created an amazing project - love it! I also really like how you used the same idea of the 4 colors and stamp in a totally new and different way on your second challenge project. I think I need to pull out my Stampbord and use it again!

I think many of us who craft are perfectionists, and less than happy when something doesn't go as planned, or turn out as we envisioned. We really want to do a good job with our creations! So, I thought I would share with you the creative and messy process I went through on my second project.

My idea was to use alcohol inks and create a really cool background, then stamp the image on that, and voila! I would have this beautiful card! You can see that I started out that way - I got all of my materials out to create my inked design, glossy paper, inks, the stamp...all set and ready to go. I wanted some metallic inks with the design, and I started here (blues), but the more I worked with it, the yuckier it got. Threw that one out!

Tried a couple more times, tried some different colors, then started to create one that I liked (reds).This was more like it, but it still needed some tweaking, so went back in with some of the felt applicators and the other colors (purple and teal) and "dappled" the design a bit. I liked what I ended up with.

Then I stamped it....well, no matter what ink I tried, how I stamped it - right side up, upside down, the black ink just wasn't jiving with the paper and the alcohol inks, and I could not get a good image. So there went that idea into the garbage.

Finally, I headed onto a completely different path to make this card. I stamped the image onto brown card stock, did a bit of "fussy" cutting and layered it on teal. Brown and teal - great colors together. Well, it seemed a bit plain (after my original plans), so I got out the white pen and added some detail, which just made it start to pop. Then, I thought , why not add a bit of Crystal Effects/Diamond Glaze to some of the design to create layers, and while it was wet, I added a few gears for interest (I know, I know, but I couldn't help myself!)

I thought I was done, but it still just seemed to be missing something. That's when I dove into my wastebasket and found the paper I threw away. Luckily, there was enough to cut off and make these strips. So, in the end, I did not get my image stamped on the paper I made, but I did get a bit of it onto the card - a compromise, I guess. So there you have it - the story of how this little card was created! (and yes, it's unique - only one, after all that!)

We hope you have enjoyed our blog challenge. Now it's your turn, take one stamp and make 2 projects from it, or one embellishment, or one paper....let us know what you do!

Second Challenge Project by Sheila

2012-02-02T06:00:00.046-05:00

OK....I just have to say that Maura's SteamPunk project is absolutely gorgeous! She did a fantastic job with a really cool idea.

For my second project, I kept the same basic idea as the wooden clothespins but used Stampbord instead. If you're not familiar with Stampbord, it has a smooth clay finish that accepts all types of inks. Since the surface is made of clay, you can then scratch into your designs to create incredible details. It's a fun medium to stamp with! I started with four small rectangle pieces.

I used the same four Distress Ink colors--Spiced Marmalade, Peeled Paint, Barn Door and Faded Jeans. I then placed the four pieces ink side down on top of my rubber stamp that I had inked up with StazOn black ink. When I carefully lifted them off, they looked like this.

After I used the detail tool to add the white accents, I decided to mat the four pieces to make a greeting card. I stamped with Versamark ink on the blue mat.

And here's another view.

If you want to see previous projects using Stampbord, check them out HERE and Here.

This challenge was a lot of fun! Thanks Maura.

New Distress Markers in action

2012-02-01T06:00:00.013-05:00

Here's a video fresh from the CHA show this week that shows more of Tim's new Distress Markers.

Paperclipping.com always has such professional videos from the show and there are a lot more videos of brand new products on their site HERE. Pour yourself a cup of coffee and enjoy.

Blog Challenge: Maura's first project

2012-01-31T06:00:00.000-05:00

First of all, I have to say, I LOVE what Sheila did with her clothespins and this stamp!

I found this cool stamp from Inkadinkado, got two, and our January blog challenge was born as Sheila and I used this to make our projects to share with you.

If you don't know by now, I am a big fan of SteamPunk, and find myself using this style more and more. I definitely saw the possibilities for some SteamPunk art with this stamp. So, of course, my first project with this had to be along those lines!

I chose to use the stamped design as a background. It fit in perfectly with the Graphic 45 SteamPunk Debutante papers. I also had the Graphic 45 stamps from this line, and could just picture all of this design kind of flowing out of her head. I added all kinds of gears, some rhinestones, a hinge, and a few other surprises in there, stamped "date" and put it together.

Now, I hear you say, is it just a book? Well, no....it's the cover to a "perpetual" birthday/anniversary/important dates that you want to send a card to someone "book".

Here's a peek of an inside page with 2 months for dates on the left, and a pocket page on the right to put cards in. My thought is that as I make cards, I can put them in here and be totally organized, and mail them out on time. (well...it was a good thought....)

First Challenge Project by Sheila

2012-01-29T06:00:00.024-05:00

Remember this I found in my Christmas package from Maura?

Well, the time has come to share our projects.

For my first project, I worked with plain wooden clothespins and Distress Inks. I pulled the clothespins apart and inked them with Faded Jeans, Peeled Paint, Barn Door and Spiced Marmalade.

I rubbed off the wet ink with a paper towel to get more of a faded, distressed look to them.

Then I inked up the rubber stamp with black ink.

And then I carefully placed the clothespins on top of the inked stamp right next to each other and pressed down. (This is why I took them apart. On my first attempt the little metal parts jutted out too far and messed me up).

Then I carefully removed them and this is the result.

You can add magnets to the back and use them as little note holders on your fridge or file cabinet but I like these as little note stands. You could also display a little photo in one.

Now these look interesting....

2012-01-26T07:35:00.000-05:00

It seems like the Copic markers are all the rage right now...but they're a bit out of my budget, so I'm not hopping on that bandwagon...but these look promising.

Tim Holtz Distress Markers

According to Tim's blog:
These are shipping in february and are available individually or as a set. These markers are reactive with water to allow for amazing blending and shading, and coloring on directly onto your stamps. The dual tips are a flexible brush nib on one end for great coloring effects, and a plastic detailed nib on the other for journaling or fine detail work. Available in 37 colors... 37? oh yes, all 36 classic distress palette colors and white picket fence (just wait until you see what this cool white marker does with the other colors)...

I'm hoping he'll have a video to share some cool techniques.

Sneak Peeks of new products

2012-01-24T06:00:00.000-05:00

Since the Craft and Hobby Association (CHA) trade show is coming up early next week, there are lots of sneak peeks making their way around the internet. It can be a bit overwhelming but here is one site that I found that is doing a pretty good job of showing what is new---

Check it out HERE...but be warned......there is a ton of new product in the works. If you see something you love, be sure to share with us in the comments.

Valentine ATC's

2012-01-23T06:00:00.001-05:00

Valentine ATC's with "inchies"

Close up of "1+1=2"

Close up of "love letters"

I've been working on another art exchange. The challenge for these was to create a Valentine themed ATC with an "inchie" ( a 1" x 1" tiny work of art). I really wasn't sure where I was heading when I started these, but I do like where I ended up.

Remember those bags we decorated and hung up in elementary school so everyone in class could drop their valentine in? Wouldn't these be fun to drop in?

Coffee Lovers Unite!

2012-01-21T08:37:00.002-05:00

New Coffee Paper Line by Canvascorp.com

I think by now you all know how much Sheila and I love coffee! When I came across this new paper line with a coffee theme, well, I just started to see a whole lot of possibilities!! Visions of java, joe, cuppa, coffee, hot and black, iced, sweet, light...oh yeah! the lights came on. Now, I am on a mission to find out who carries this line, so we can get our hands on some and start creating!! (Hint to Tiffany and Tara at Captured Moments!!)

Sheila here-Great minds think alike Maura! I saw this sneak peek also and had to add this paper from their new coffee line...I love that they added the coffee cup stain rings....

*actually posted by Maura-ignore below

Mad Hatter Tea Party

2012-01-19T06:00:00.000-05:00

no Smooch

"Smooched"

To "smooch" or not to "smooch"? Ah, that is the question I asked myself on this project. I am hosting a "little fat book" 4" x 4" page exchange with a tea party theme with my art group. I debated fancy tea party, hats, gloves, etc. then thought...hey! Mad Hatter Tea Party! then I can go a little crazy with it. I thought I was done, and took the top photo, and then I thought of my Smooch. Check out the bottom photo to see the difference.

What do you think?

Birds of a Feather

2012-01-17T06:00:00.000-05:00

Valentine cards don't always have to be pink and red. I was inspired by this cute stamp and some beautiful blues to try something just a little different, and I think it makes a great card for Valentine's Day. I thought I would try something a little different, so made paper box pleats, that I then sewed right on the card. These show the two styles I did, the flower, and the lace. I like them both. Inside the card it simply says "Happy Together".

My challenge for you is to go beyond the pink and red, and see what you can create for Valentine's Day!

Winter Woodland ATC's

2012-01-15T06:00:00.000-05:00

These are the ATC's I created for a "winter wonderland/animal theme" ATC exchange. I decided to go with some tree paper I had that was really more spring like and add some snow and make it look like the snow was falling. Then, I thought it would be fun to put litle mufflers on the animals to keep them warm by using ribbons and fibers.

Librarian Retirement Album

2012-01-13T06:00:00.000-05:00

Our school librarian is retiring in just a few days, so I was asked to make another scrapbook. This time, I decided to start from scratch , so the covers and pages are all bookboard, and I put it together with the Cinch (love that Cinch!!)

I like to use a theme for these albums, and what is better than books for a librarian. I even found real library cards (thanks Tiffany) that worked perfectly throughout the album. The book is filled with little memories that the people at work want to share.

I decided for my thoughts, I would write them on the library card in the "top ten" style. I was trying to think of fun things to do in retirement to share.

I have to share once again how you can make your mistakes work for you. I bound the book, and opened it up to make sure everything was good...and what did I discover but that I had done half the pages upside down. Well, I knew I could not take them all apart and redo them, so had to come up with another plan! I remembered some of those children books that you can start at the front, or start at the back, so I turned this into a "flip" book like that. My "Oh No!" moment turned out ok.

New Season of My Craft Channel

2012-01-12T08:14:00.000-05:00

A new year means a new season of craft shows on My Craft Channel. If you haven't been watching, you should! There have been some great crafting ideas, how to videos, tips and lots more. I've added a few of them on my to-do list.

Here's one of the brand new shows:

Exactly what it says...Lori Allred finds great inspiration on Pinterest and shares her take on it in a short video. Today's idea is all about chalkboard paint...including how to make your own!

One of the ideas I love is THIS:

And next week....how to make your own chalk. How cool is that?

Musings from the December Daily

2012-01-10T06:00:00.007-05:00

We both ran into some glitches this year with our December Daily, so in thinking back over it, we each have some ideas on how to make the process flow more smoothly. Maybe these ideas will help you through your next big project.

Maura's top 3:
1. Don't worry if your photos are not perfect - use them anyway. You can always make a hat to put on top of the head that's not there. These are part of your life now - it's ok if it's dark, blurry, etc. - make it work for you. Remember, it's the memory you want to share.

2. Make a template for your pages. This makes it easy to get all the pages done ahead of time. Fill in the extras when you add your photos and journaling.

3. Use a kit...it has everything you need, it's coordinated and it will save you time.

Sheila's top 3:
1. Design your album to fit your photos, not the other way around. For instance, if you know that your photos are going to be easiest to print at a 4x6 size, don't make pages that are more suited to 6x8 photos. Keep your template more to scale so that you are not spending all your time on the computer resizing photos. Even though I like the larger photos, I complained about this step each and every time.

2. Follow Maura's advice and buy that ONE kit that you just love. Then shop your supplies. You'd be amazed at what supplies you already have in your stash that are perfect for a December Daily. I spent time going through all my drawers and pulled out tags, labels, twine, brads, ribbon, journaling spots, embellishments etc. and put them all in a big bag and in the holiday decoration box to be pulled out each Christmas.

3. Design your foundation pages ahead of time. One year I had the page templates all done, printed out and ready so that I just added the photos, the journaling and an embellishment or two and my day was complete. That was definitely easier than trying to catch up on December 10th this year.

....and remember to enjoy the season as you document it.

A few more pages....

2012-01-08T06:00:00.000-05:00

My students decorated my classroom with snowflakes, and lights on the plant.

See, there's the coffee again...prepared for the crop!

My fabulous Secret Santa gift - such fun to open...and use. Thanks Mary!!

I love how my sons decorated the guitars. I didn't have a photo for the day my husband got back, so used one that I took on Christmas.

My sons, Dan and Ben really helped get the house ready for Christmas this year. I wanted a photo of them both, but that one wasn't great, so I laid this other one over it.

Printer problems...for some reason my little photo printer takes off the tops of heads, so my solution was to add some funky little hats.

The month is not all celebration, and one day included a trip to the eye doctor for me. I took a photo of myself dressed for Christmas, and thought it could represent my appointment.

Christmas day! Since I took a lot of Christmas photos, I decided to use the days after the holiday to still showcase them.

I found as I worked on this, that I had a lot of little glitches, but we all know as scrapbookers and crafters, that you can usually make your mistakes work for you. Words of wisdom: "Remember, it's only paper...."

Coffee theme in the December Daily

2012-01-06T06:00:00.002-05:00

In looking back over my album, I seem to see a coffee theme flowing throughout. A special brew from Sheila that I have enjoyed throughout the month...a trip to Starbucks with my husband (more than once)...meeting up with friends at the Coffee Beanery to celebrate the holidays...guess I just love a good cuppa joe!

So, in honor of my love of java, here is the page with the acrylic page over it, and then the page itself with photos from the store, the red cup, the bag the cookie came in, and my hubby enjoying his expresso and double chocolate brownie! It just so happens that we went to Starbucks first for coffee and dessert, then out to dinner - you know that saying...have dessert first - well we did!

Now...to see what adventures in javaland come my way in 2012...maybe a cuppa with Sheila one of these days!

More Project Life details

2012-01-05T06:00:00.048-05:00

Maura posted a comment on my recent Project Life post and asked:

Question - do you use the kit from Becky Higgins, or do you choose your own materials to work with? I noticed she has all kinds of page dividers which would be fun to work with.

I thought that I would answer here in a bit more detail. For the past three years, I have purchased her kits. This year I got the Clementine Core Kit:

as well as the Design A Page Protectors:

However, as soon as these become available I will also be purchasing the Big Variety Pack:

as well as the dividers:

And I recently switched all my binders to the We R Memory Keepers Dark Chocolate 12x12.

That being said, this project can either be very detailed with all the bells and whistles or very simple with really just a binder and page protectors. After all the most important items are the photos and journaling. I've seen examples on the internet where people cut down their cardstock to the right size, add stamping or a bit of scrapbook embellishments and they're good to go. No core kit needed at all. After all, we all have patterned paper and cardstock in our stashes.

Find what works for you...a photo a day, various photos from the week, or even a two page spread that has photos for each month, etc. Collect "evidence" of your life--receipts, mail, clothing tags, product packaging, etc. and include that in a space. Make it your own and above all....have fun with it. I actually look forward to the time I set aside each Monday to work on my book. And believe me...these albums are above all others....our favorites.

Now are you ready to document your 2012?

December Daily - sharing the goodies

2012-01-04T06:00:00.000-05:00

I received a surprise package in December from Sheila with some goodies for my December Daily, so I wanted to share those pages with you.

On my December 6 page, I included the "gift card" as a design element along with the photo.

December 23 was my last day of school for the year, and "bingo" just seemed to work for that day. Originally, I was going to use the bingo card as a page, then was going to make it a date, but in the end used it in place of a photo. I will admit, I was not very good this year at taking a photo a day for the album, so used things like this, or a page of journaling, or stretched my Christmas photos over several pages.

I think my favorite is the final page shown here. This laser cut envelope was perfect to slide a landscape photo into, and yes, we have had a few inches of snow here in the Adirondacks.

Shout out to Doris!

2012-01-03T06:00:00.001-05:00

Doris, a very creative friend, has just started a blog, so be sure to check it out HERE. We have shared some of the great ideas she has come up with before on our blog. This is a purse album she created, so head on over to her blog to check it out!!

Congratulations, and welcome aboard the blogosphere, Doris!

December Daily - cover to cover

2012-01-02T06:00:00.002-05:00

Finished...and in the month of December, 2011, that is! So guess what I spent New Year's eve doing? Yes, my album...but it was a great way to end the year, creatively.

I thought I would start you off with a peek at my covers of the album. I used clear acrylic, and I like the way you can "peek" through to the layer below - there's a hint of what's to come.

I used a template for my pages, and it helped simplify the whole process for me. I tried to keep it fairly simple this year and not put too much into it, and I think I did.

On my back cover you can see a farewell to the seasonal brews until next year, and my word "believe" for 2012.

I can't wait to see yours, Sheila!!

One Little Word for 2012

2012-01-01T06:00:00.043-05:00

Start out the new year with "one little word". It's a puzzle to figure out the word for the year, but it can guide you through the next twelve months.

This is an idea from Ali Edwards (be sure to check out her website here to get more details). Sheila and I have been doing this for the past couple of years and you can check out posts from past years HERE.

So, after much pondering, I think my word for 2012 will be "BELIEVE". Belief encompasses acceptance, expectation, faith, confidence, trust...I believe I can become a better person in 2012; I believe I can improve; I believe life will be better for my family; I believe I can accept challenges in my life, both personal and creative....and grow as a person.

Sheila here...my word for 2012 is CULTIVATE: to promote or improve, to refine. There are different aspects of my life...crafting included..that are just waiting to be cultivated.

What's your one little word for 2012? Have a blessed and healthy new year!

Crafting Videos

2011-12-30T13:37:00.001-05:00

An old favorite for great scrapbooking ideas - TV Weekly. Sheila and I used to watch these and find some fantastic ideas for projects...then it disappeared off the web. Well, now it has reappeared again via You Tube.

Check it out!

Here I go...again

2011-12-29T07:02:00.000-05:00

These are my Project Life albums from the past three years. I recently switched over to We R Memory Keepers binders in Dark Chocolate.

See that empty one way in the back? Yes, that is for 2012. I am once again ready to document next year with a picture a day.

If you're not familiar with Project Life, be sure to check out Becky Higgin's blog.

It can be as much as documenting a photo a day, a photo a week or even just a few photos from your month. The great thing about this type of album is that you make it your own by adding your everyday photos and journaling and bits and pieces of your life. I honestly don't see myself stopping anytime soon...that's how much we love looking back at these albums.

Are you ready to start documenting your 2012?

More Pinterest

2011-12-28T06:00:00.008-05:00

Maura mentioned earlier this week about Pinterest. It's a great place to set up "bulletin boards" and keep track of just about anything you can think of, craft related or not. I've seen boards for recipes to try, home decor, crafts to make, books to read, videos to watch, etc.

Lots of people have boards you can follow as well as scrapbook companies, magazines, etc. so be sure to search for your favorites. Here's an example:

Scrapbooks Etc. Pinterest Page

You can follow people if you want to see each and every thing that they are interested in, or you can just look at their boards and click on items of interest.

Now....just a warning....this site is very addictive and can use up a lot of your free time. You click on one thing, check out a site, find another link to something even cooler and it just keeps on going.

It's a great place though to keep track of all those cool things you find on the internet. If you haven't done so already, check it out.

A challenge

2011-12-27T06:00:00.008-05:00

Well, look what was under the Christmas tree from Maura....

Very clever of her.

Stay tuned to see what we both come up with!

New to me

2011-12-26T17:55:00.002-05:00

My friend Leslie mentioned this site to me, and I have finally had some time to play with it. It is like a social bulletin board. You set up themed bulletin boards and pin images to it. It looks like a great way to keep track of all of those ideas you run across on the web to keep in one place. You can share with others and see what other people are posting. I have just started to set up some boards, and it looks like fun. Check it out and contact them if you are interested in joining.

Merry Christmas to all...

2011-12-24T06:00:00.009-05:00

We wish all of you a very Merry Christmas...full of joy and wonder...time with family and friends...many crafting gifts under the tree just waiting for you to open and play with...and a Santa size bag of time for just you...to craft and create!
(If you aren't getting a white Christmas this year, may you at least get a crafting Christmas!)

Sheila and Maura...two crafting sisters

July 2011

December Daily Day 6

2011-12-22T06:00:00.016-05:00

I cannot have a December Daily album without a tribute page to Starbucks. I anxiously wait each year for the start of the red cups and the new holiday design. And each year I love what they come up with even more than the previous year.

I cut down a 9 pocket page protector so that it would fit into my book. Then I added the two Starbucks gift card designs for this year along with one of their gift card holders. I stitched the top opening closed so they will not fall out.

I took one of their small tag gift cards for this year and attached that to my transparent divider. And, yes that is one of their festive bags on my page as well as the side of one of the red cups that I cut apart to include.

I think that my Starbucks pages are one of my favorites to make in these albums.

Holiday Goodies

2011-12-21T06:00:00.007-05:00

Here are this year's holiday goodies:

I wrapped the yarn around two candy canes and adhered with hot glue (that's the biggest tip I can give because every other adhesive I tried did not work). Then glue on the eyes and red nose. I wrapped a red ribbon to hold the jingle bell and the hand stamped tag.

December Daily: Tuesday the 21st.

2011-12-20T18:59:00.003-05:00

Well, after I saw how Sheila moved ahead in the December Daily race, I just felt inspired to do something! And, lest you believe that I have finished all of my pages through today, oh no! I have only done today's!!

So, there I was...my handmade Christmas cards all made months ago...plenty of time to address the envelopes and write the notes inside....and yep, here I am, again at the last minute trying to get them done to mail out tomorrow. I mean, what is wrong with this plan? (on my layout inside the card is my "yearly whine" about not getting the cards out on time...again)

I guess I could look at it this way - at least they will be in the mailbox on the Winter Solstice - shortest day of the year, so the postman won't be tempted to get home early to bask in the sun!

OK - maybe you caught my blooper...after I posted, I realized that today is the 2oth., not the 21st. and I just made the page for the wrong day!!! I think this week at school is stretching out forever....Well, I am off to a good start on my December Daily! :)

December Daily Day 2

2011-12-19T06:00:00.011-05:00

Day 2 is a tribute to another of my favorite holiday coffees....Reindeer Blend from Caribou Coffee. I wrapped one of their festive cup sleeves onto my transparent divider. And page 2 is actually their holiday bag. I love their design this year and wanted to include it.

I still need to go back and add some journaling in that empty space.

December Daily Day 1

2011-12-18T06:00:00.029-05:00

For this year's album I decided to go with page protectors. Since I could not find the correct size for my templates (6" x 8 1/2") I got 6" x 12" page protectors and just cut them down to size. Works out great.

I liked the idea of the transparent page in the middle of each daily spread so I decided to do that in this year's album. I cut various transparencies to 3" x 8 1/2" and on Day 1 I added a leftover paper chain from Ormolu. I think I got these three years ago when Maura and I made our very first December Daily album together at a crop.

I also added an Avery plastic label holder on the side. For Day 1 I made a miniature version of our Advent Calendar and included that along with a dictionary definition of Advent.

December Daily Update

2011-12-17T13:58:00.000-05:00

Guess what this is?

If you guessed that it is the cover of my December Daily album....

you are right!

I had the great idea of wanting to make a cover out of wood this year. Well, I almost gave up when I could not find the wood that I wanted to use. Hint...do not look at Lowes or Home Depot.

After a trip to Michael's (duh!), I found thin pieces of wood in thicknesses from 1/8" on up. I had my husband cut them to size for me and then I stained then with an oil based stain. The color was much too dark and no wood grain showed through. Plus I told my husband the wrong size and they were too small. So, I was ready to give it up once again.

But he came home with more wood, cut them to the correct size and this time I used a water based stain. And now I love the result:

Now if I could only find the time to work on the pages.

Advent Calendar Idea - check this out!

2011-12-13T06:00:00.001-05:00

If you haven't seen this cool idea for an advent calendar, head on over to the Captured Moments blog to check out Tiffany's creation and how to make it. This is only a sneak peek of an awesome project!

Tara and Tiffany have these wonderful, amazing ideas that inspire us! (Hope you don't mind us sharing what two of our favorite sisters do!)

December Crop

2011-12-12T06:00:00.000-05:00

We had a nice quiet crop on Saturday...a short one. I think all of us were working on holiday projects, trying to get things done in time. Working while enjoying the holiday music on the radio, a little eggnog, a delicious lunch - Papa Nick's meatballs and pasta - yum-o! Captured Moments was looking very festive which put us all in the holiday mood. We were in full swing at 6 pm when the crop ended - could have cropped a few more hours. (Instead I headed to get groceries before heading home, and ran into Tara getting baking supplies for a cookie-a-thon with her daughter.)

Sometimes it just gets so hectic during this season, a day to yourself with friends to play is a gift - be sure to give yourself one too!

Easy Star Ornaments to make

2011-12-11T06:00:00.000-05:00

I ran across a tutorial for star ornaments this morning and just had to try them. Super easy...all you need are scraps of paper, a bit of ribbon and a button.

larger stars are 3x3, smaller is 2x2

Double sided papers look better.

Of course, my favorite tutorial lady made them.

Now don't you think you need to hang some stars in your craft room this holiday season?

Cinch to make these

2011-12-10T05:54:00.000-05:00

Have you been watching the crafting videos on My Craft Channel? I especially like this one from Heidi Swapp on Deconstructed Books. She takes books and cuts them apart, adds her own photos and re-binds them to create unique, one of a kind mini-scrapbooks. I love this idea.

Click HERE to watch it.

Better late than never

2011-12-09T10:30:00.000-05:00

I thought that I should give an update on my December Daily progress seeing that today is the 9th.

Well....here you go....

Everything I possibly want to use is in this 12x12 drawer.
I got 12 foundation pages printed out before I ran out of cardstock. That's now on order.
The cover pieces are still on my husband's workbench....unfinished.

I finally have a bit of time to work on it today so we'll see if I can catch up. Hopefully some actual pages will be showing up here on the blog. Stay tuned.

Love this idea!

2011-12-07T18:20:00.001-05:00

I love this idea for the December Daily! What a great cover! Kudos to Kelly Goree at TwoPeas. I can see a lot of possibilities with this idea - buttons in a tree shape on a card, brads.... very cool! Lots of great texture to this.

December Daily Photo for Today!

2011-12-05T18:11:00.000-05:00

This photo will definitely be going in to my December Daily for today!!! My son played me the phone message, and my day immediately brightened. As Sheila would say....it's the luck of the Irish!

December Daily Template

2011-12-03T06:00:00.003-05:00

This year, in my attempt to keep my book clean and simple, I chose to go with a template I created. The base page is Kraft paper and then I took a pen and went around the outer edge of the square and divided the bottom section into two blocks. The large one for the patterned paper piece and the stamped ticket and the small one for the punched circle and stamped number for the date. I finished off my template with a strip of stamped pattern for a bit more interest. Now, all I really need to do is put in the photo, maybe an embellishment, and a bit of journaling to record my days. (I love the journaling cards that Sheila found online, and need to add some of those in to my album too.)

Can't wait to see what you are coming up with Sheila!

Sheila here...love Maura's handmade template. I went with the overlays from Ali Edwards since the work was already done for me and I just had to click print.

I also plan on adding a bit of patterned paper to the bottom of each page and perhaps an embellishment as the month progresses. I like to have that uniform look throughout my pages.

So...two different...and both great, options that you can use in your book.

December Daily Cover

2011-12-02T06:00:00.002-05:00

I've had fun getting my December Daily prepared. Now I just have to remember to take a photo every day to add to my book. I am going for a clean, simple feel to my book this year. I cut out several of the ornaments and adhered them to the acrylic cover. I really like to use acrylic, since it lets me layer and gives a peek through to what comes next. I am sure by the time I finish, this will have a changed appearance.

Sheila here...first attempt at a "different" cover for this year did not turn out as I pictured in my head besides the fact that I had the covers cut at the wrong size to fit my pages. So, I am back at it again and will be sharing once I like the results. Stay tuned!

Reminder

2011-12-02T05:30:00.001-05:00

Just in case someone has forgotten...Tim Holtz is once again doing his 12 Tags of Christmas.

December Daily!

2011-12-01T06:00:00.001-05:00

Maura's materials (for the most part...) Crate Paper: North Pole Collection, an acrylic album, Tim Holtz Kraft Christmas paper, Tim Holtz ticket stamps (I already used the die cut to make the tickets) and Daily Junque stamps, along with the usual assortment of tools, adhesives, inks, etc.

I am trying to keep it simple this year...let's see how I do!

Sheila here--this year I am going to work with supplies already in my stash but I did purchase one collection of papers to play with. I had to have one new thing to keep it interesting! I decided to go with neutral, rustic colors and chose the 25 Days of Christmas collection from Simple Stories.

I haven't gotten into my holiday stash yet to see what there is but I think I better add that on my to-do list for the day considering that December Daily has officially begun!

It's right around the corner

2011-11-26T07:14:00.000-05:00

Are you ready for documenting your December with us? It will be here before you know it and if you don't want to miss out here are some free printable journaling cards from Creativity Prompt that would be a great addition to your December Daily project.

Be sure to check out all the free printables that are offered.

Give Thanks!

2011-11-24T06:00:00.002-05:00

make and take from the Harvest Crop

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving with family and friends!

Twocraftingsisters thanks you for reading our blog and encouraging us in this endeavor. We are thankful to hear from you through the comments you add or in person.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Maura and Sheila

Altered Calendar for 2012

2011-11-22T06:00:00.000-05:00

Cover

I wanted to share with you my new 2012 calendar I altered recently. I think this has become a tradition for me to take a plain basic calendar and make it my own.

I use my calendar everyday, and I want something that I enjoy seeing and working in. Pockets are a must, because there is always something extra that I need to keep with the calendar - coupons, notes, school stuff, etc.

Now, I need to add in all the dates I already have notes on...such as upcoming crops!

Inside front cover pocket page

Yes, it's ANOTHER baby book!!

2011-11-20T06:00:00.000-05:00

Yup, you got it...another baby book for another teacher at school! I think we will be looking back on these past few years and discover there's been another baby boom!

I created this book with chipboard and the Stampin Up baby paper line called Nursery Nest, then bound it with the Cinch. I added a few other embellishments and buttons and ribbons. I changed the format a bit and went for a long vertical style with this book. Once again, I did not know if she is expecting a boy or girl, so wanted to come up with a book for either, hence the pinks, blues and greens.

Here is a sample of the inside pages also.

Make and Take

2011-11-18T06:00:00.000-05:00

Tiffany from Captured Moments came up with this cute make and take at the Crop a Lot weekend we just enjoyed. In the bag is a peppermint patty, and the snowman is simply 3 different size circles, inked and layered. Add the hat, scarf, face details, and you have a really cute little gift or fun embellishment for a package!

Snowpeople

2011-11-16T06:00:00.000-05:00

Lori was working on these wonderful snowpeople at the crop this past weekend. I love them all! She found vintage pearls to fill them with and added neat little items like dominoes, stars, etc. in the old milk bottles. Hats are fun things like tea strainers, funnels, little tiny pots...so creative! These are Lori's at the beginning of the process...each one has it's own special personality. It was such fun to see the "birth" of these vintage snow people!

Lori's inspiration - finished snowmen from the snowman lady - check out her blog link below.

Sue Pelletier..the snowman lady

Sue Pelletier's snowmen featured in Cloth Paper Scissors

Crop a Lot Weekend - a winning table!

2011-11-14T18:53:00.000-05:00

Lynda - prize #1 - a clock to alter

Lynda - prize #2 for her very cool layout, including a rope ladder!

Stacey - winner of the Creative Memories bag (we were all eyeing this one)

Lori - the BIG winner!!! She won an entire cropping weekend! I think she is now hooked!
We had such a fun time!!!

Craft Stick Ideas

2011-11-13T14:24:00.000-05:00

Two cute ideas using craft sticks found via Pinterest---

Love this gift wrap idea especially with a bit of stamping on the craft sticks


(LOVE Kraft paper as wrapping paper)

Tutorial for these rustic snowflakes can be found HERE.

I happen to have a huge box of craft sticks in the garage that I bought years ago. I think I might just have to try these snowflakes and hang them in the windows this year.

Holiday Decor Ideas

2011-11-11T05:30:00.000-05:00

I thought this was a very clever idea and a great way to use up leftover scraps of holiday paper--adhere them to corks or even wooden spools and then decorate a mirror or a picture frame.

from Echo Park Paper Co.

Ready for the Holidays?

2011-11-09T06:15:00.002-05:00

It's that time of year again....time to get ready for documenting the month of December. Maura and I will be creating another December Daily this year. I think this project is one of our favorites!

Click HERE for our previous entries about this project. Click HERE for more information from Ali Edward's blog--the inspiration behind the project.

And remember, this project is simply photos and stories. You can easily work with just supplies already in your stash, you can purchase a few special goodies or you can go all out and buy everything new.

Are you going to document your holidays? Join us and be sure to share a link to your project. We'd love to have you play along!

Maura here - Looking forward to our "annual" December Daily with you Sheila!! Hope we get some of our readers to join us - it's a fun project to do in November and just have to add your photos in December! I think I am going to use my stash instead of purchasing a new paper line - I have SO much Christmas stuff to pull from. It will be fun to see how we each design ours!

Calling all Tim Holtz fans

2011-11-06T03:23:00.000-05:00

Just saw that Tim Holtz is opening a Holiday Etsy Shop on Monday, November 7th at 9 a.m. PST. Among his goodies will be these kits:

More details HERE on his blog. Or be sure to visit his Etsy shop HERE tomorrow. I know some of you are huge fans.

Holiday Card Idea

2011-11-05T06:00:00.001-04:00

It's not too early to start thinking about your holiday cards.

Inspiration for this card was found HERE.

November Stamp Camp Card

2011-11-03T06:00:00.001-04:00

Two versions of the card I made for November's Stamp Camp. I used the Stampin Up Spice Cake line of paper and fabric. The stamped pear stands out a bit more by using the glaze (Diamond Glaze or Crystal Lacquer). Simple, old-fashioned, and feels like fall...

10,000!

2011-11-01T06:00:00.014-04:00

10,000 maniacs? 10,000 stars? 10,000 what???

Hey, Sheila! Did you see we just passed the 10,000 mark!!

Who would have thought it?

Congratulations on a job well done.

Thank you to all of our readers...we couldn't do this without you!

Sheila here...I had no idea! I agree...a huge thanks to all of our blog readers. It just wouldn't be as much fun without all of you along for our crafting adventures.

Happy Haunted Halloween!

2011-10-31T06:00:00.000-04:00

Happy Halloween everyone! These are a couple of haunted houses I made for an art exchange this month. We started with a chipboard haunted house base (Cricket, I think) and then decorated them any way we wanted to. These are my creations...you may notice I used some of my leftover canvas from my Halloween paper bag project for the roofs. This was a fun project to dig through my stash, and create!

Trick or Treat!!

Perfect Bows

2011-10-29T05:42:00.000-04:00

I thought that I would share this video from the Hero Arts website showing tips for making perfect bows. I have seen these little bow making set-ups before (if you Google there are nice wooden ones with exchangeable pegs for about $8-$10) but I think a few straight pins in your mousepad would work out just fine.

I'm off to try and improve my bow making for holiday cards!

A Slice of Life

2011-10-28T17:14:00.000-04:00

Just thought I would share with you the view out my back window this morning before I headed off to work. Yes, SNOW, and it's not even Halloween yet! I think we got a couple of inches, and up to half a foot is predicted for tomorrow - whoo boy! To further share this little slice of my life, I am typing this with my gloves on...in my house....with no heat...brrrr! The furnace puts out hot water, but the "heat the house part" is broken.

So, you see...some days when you think you have nothing to journal about, you get a day like this!

Witch's Brooms

2011-10-26T06:00:00.003-04:00

Here are this year's Halloween goodies:

You need two paper bags for each broomstick. I used the small size from Michael's that are about 6" x 2". Unfold one bag and push out its base while folding in the left and right sides. Use scissors to cut the bag into thin strips right down to the base fold. Cut thin strips into the top inch or so of the second bag.

Open both bags and place the second bag inside the shredded one.

Add Halloween candy of choice--I went with the classic candy corn. Insert a small branch into the bag. Cinch the tops of both bags and secure with ribbon. Add a cute tag.

October Harvest Crop

2011-10-25T16:30:00.000-04:00

This past Saturday, I was at the Captured Moments "harvest" crop. It was a little unusual, in that so many people came and filled every nook and cranny of the store, that we set up "tailgate" meals outside! It sure made it easy to clean up for the girls - pack up and take it home! Lucky for us all it was not raining although it was a bit chilly. I guess we have our own version of "tailgating" in the scrapbook world!

Halloween Cards

2011-10-22T06:00:00.011-04:00

Here are this year's Halloween cards.

The subway art is a printable that I found HERE. Quick and easy.

...with, of course, a decorated envelope.

Heritage Album Class October 29

2011-10-20T07:55:00.001-04:00

I will be teaching the Heritage Album Class at Captured Moments on Saturday, October 29, from 10 - 2 pm. If you have signed up for the class, here are the materials you will need to bring.

Paper trimmer, Xacto knife and cutting mat, Ink – vintage colors, Scissors, Adhesive, Pop tape, Glue dots, Black and white pens for journaling, Buttons – vintage or neutral, Photos, Vintage trinkets or embellishments.

I will bring these items, but feel free to bring your own also:
Vintage stamps, Punches – circle (3/4”, 1 ¾”, 1 ½”), square (1 -3/8”), curly label (Stampin Up), the Cinch – we will use to bind the books.

You will need to provide your own photos for the album. Here is a great website to find fun vintage photos for free. Click on an image and often multiple images will be found. I copied and pasted into a word document, in order to size them, and then printed them out.

Harvest Time

2011-10-18T06:00:00.000-04:00

One of the creative things my art group works on are 4 x 4 pages, often called "little fat book" (LFB) pages. I am sponsoring a harvest themed LFB exchange this month.

This is mine for the exchange. I had fun layering stamped images, they are so cool - I just love that tractor! Harvest time makes me think of the farmers bringing in their crops, my family harvesting the gardens and fruit trees, the dirt and fields (cardboard, and green layer), and of course, the changing color of the trees. Guess I had to "throw" the cow in there too, since we have quite a few dairy farms in upstate New York.

Hmm...wonder if the farm stand is still open?

Halloween Coffins

2011-10-16T06:00:00.000-04:00

My friend, Doris, came up with another great Halloween project for us to make! A small group of us got together and these are our creations we wanted to share with you. Notice the similar elements, but how unique each one is. We started with a wooden coffin box, painted them black, then decorated the cover and outside.

We also created a book to go in the "coffin." Check out the covers we each came up with! It ranges from cute to spooky to cats to mummies. It was fun going through our Halloween stash and sharing with each other to make these little "coffin books."

Stamp Camp October Card

2011-10-15T06:00:00.000-04:00

Here's the card I made for the card exchange this month. I used my new tree stamp from Stampin Up and the card stock and ink is theirs also. I pulled out my sewing machine to sew on the ribbon at the bottom, added a bit of bling, words, and there it is!

Halloween Embellishments

2011-10-13T06:00:00.001-04:00

I've seen buttons glued together to make flowers as embellishments and I thought that I'd try something for Halloween.

leftover border strips from last year (K&Co. brand)

I used mini glue dots to adhere the buttons together, put a pop dot on the back of the cute Halloween faces and then added the spooky eyes.

I think these would look cute on a tag and tied onto treat bags.

Sewing ATC's

2011-10-11T06:00:00.000-04:00

I am also sponsoring an ATC exchange this month with my art group. I chose a "sewing" theme to challenge the group.

Look closely and see if you can find a sewing machine, hanger, lace, canvas pattern pieces, a spool of thread, a needle, safety pins, snaps, sewing tape, and a costume to sew.

My original plan was to do some real sewing with these, but when I made them, I did not have my sewing machine handy, so instead, I put together a collage of sewing items.

The "Queen of Halloween"

2011-10-09T06:00:00.001-04:00

Our very creative and talented blog reader/friend, Doris, took us up on our long distance paper bag project challenge that Sheila and I just shared with you! We are so excited to have one of you join us!! Now, I am not surprised that Doris joined in, since the theme is Halloween, and she IS the "Queen of Halloween", at least in my book. Her cover is awesome! Just makes you want to peek inside, doesn't it? The colors, the tag, and that ribbon - perfect!

Doris went a step further than either of us, and made pages that lift up!! How cool is that! I am sure Sheila and I will be trying that out with our next paper bag book.

These colors just "scream" Halloween to me - bold and bright, and she has the best Halloween embellishments!

Look at these great layouts...can't you just picture them with Halloween photos..witches, goblins, ghouls, pumpkins...trick or treat!

I wanted to include a closeup of some of the tags Doris included in her book, because these are so very cool! Look at the fabulous images..and how she tied the embellishments in with them, like the broom with the witch...keep an eye on the night sky on October 31st. Doris...the spirits may be flying....

THANK YOU Doris for sharing with all of us!!! Your Halloween album is AWESOME!!!

Maura's Halloween Paper Bag Book

2011-10-07T06:00:00.064-04:00

Happy Halloween! Sheila came up with this great long distance project for us - a paper bag album. I chose the Graphic 45 "Halloween in Wonderland" line to use for mine, and the black bags from Michaels.

I used some tags from samples I made for last year's make and take at Captured Moments open house. Photo mats are in coordinating colors, and I also inserted some acrylic pages like Sheila, and "fussy cut" some of the designs to go over it, and added a rub-on.
Sheila here...I love the papers that Maura chose to work with. Totally different than the clean design I lean towards, so it is always fun to see her projects in person and this paper bag book is no exception! I like that we both added transparencies but I really love all the add ons that she included on them. Totally worth the "fussy" cutting!

I decided to challenge myself with the cover (and it is now challenging me, because I can't get it to go in the order that I want ). I bought some canvas and took out my acrylics and painted it black, and then just played with other colors to come up with this wild and crazy design. Added some gold webbing, and the word "spooky", ribbons through the D-ring on the end, and there it is.

LOVE the cover that you did! The canvas wrap makes it very professional looking on the spine and that POP of lime green is so you. Very cool effect in person.

Added some tags with ribbons to this page, and a bit of doodling with the white pen.
Love that velvet scallop edge!

Here, I added another tag that I had previously made.

This paper line was so much fun to work with!
You are the master of doodling. I love that added pop of the white pen. I wish I had thought to do that on my black photo mats. Need to make a note of it for next time.

A few rub ons, stamps, and Tweedle Dum and Tweedle Dee - now wouldn't that be a costume!

Off with her head! A bit of doodling again, and some skeleton ribbon, and a very cool black cat.
I was so tempted to cut off that skeleton ribbon for myself. LOVE it and have never seen it before. Perfect addition for the theme.

Another acrylic page inserted with a fussy cut design on it.

Back cover.

I think the ghoulies and gremlins are playing with me, because I cannot get the photos to go in the actual order of the book...oh, well, there really isn't a sequence.

I love all the texture that your book has. I can't tell you how many times I flipped a page and ran my fingers over the velvet or felt or embellishments. Your use of them throughout the book really makes it interactive. I pulled out every single insert just to make sure I wasn't missing anything!

Maura, I am so glad that you enjoyed my long distance challenge for us! I really had a lot of fun with this style of book.

Remember how Sheila and I invited you our blog readers to join us in this project? Well, one of you did, and there will be a special post to follow, highlighting the awesome book she made!

Sheila's Halloween Paper Bag Book

2011-10-05T06:00:00.002-04:00

Here is my version of the Long Distance Halloween Paper Bag album that Maura and I made that was inspired by this video. I used the Apothecary Emporium collection of papers by Echo Park. I purchased just the 6"x6" paper pad, the sheet of cards and the sticker sheet to complete the book. I had a bunch of stickers left over too.

For my cover I decided to use heavy chipboard with hinges die cut from grunge board.
Maura here - I love the effect Sheila got with the hinges - they are just so cool, and what a great idea for holding the book together!

The label inside the front cover pocket has a journaling spot on the back.
The simplicity of the colors and designs gives Sheila's book her clean, graphic style. I love it!

I really like the transparencies that I added inside each spread. They were just collected from bits and pieces left over from other mini book kits and such.
The polka dot transparencies are a very cool element in this book. I like how you can peek through and see what's coming. I wouldn't have thought polka dots for Halloween, but look how well they work here.

Inside each small pocket are numbered tags. You can add either photos or journaling...or both!
The pennant number tags used on the tags give continuity to the design. I also like how Sheila used the staples in a creative way.

I used black paper bags that I got at Michael's.
Just perfect for our books - thanks for telling me about those Sheila!

I kept it fairly clean and simple by using black photo mats on the paper bags.

Inside each paper bag are alternating photo mats of black and orange cardstock. The leftover stickers can be used to embellish these once photos or more journaling is added.

And that back cover label also has a journaling spot on the back of it.
Ok, how smart are you?! You were really thinking ahead on the left page - I noticed how you stapled the words on the left and kept them free to fit right over the photo, once that is put in to place. Since neither of us had photos yet for our books, you've made it easy to add yours later!

I really liked the construction of this paper bag book and am already planning on making more.The bags really give you a lot of extra room to insert photos and memorabilia. It was fun!

I agree! This was a great project you came up with Sheila! I can see so many uses for this style book. Again, I love the simplicity of design, and color coordination of your book, and those hinges - awesome!!

Halloween Treat Idea from Michelle!

2011-10-03T06:00:00.001-04:00

Our friend Michelle put together these adorable treat holders for a little friend of hers to take in to school for the Halloween party. She used the new Stampin 'Up bags, filled them with colorful Skittles, backed them with themed paper, and added the cute stamped topper to them. Looks like a treat the kids will love!

Thanks for sharing, Michelle!

School Days, School Days...

2011-10-01T06:00:00.002-04:00

One of the rituals I look forward to with the new school year, is scrapping my plan book for school. I figure that since I carry and use this every day, it really should be a little fun to use. This year, I used my September Kit Klub from Captured Moments, the BasicGrey "Oxford" line, and put together this "bookworm" page. If you look closely, you can even find a microscope in the design, which I like since I teach science.

Happy Anniversary Captured Moments!!

2011-09-29T19:17:00.001-04:00

...and MANY more!!

The Captured Moments family - Tiffany, Maria, Tara...but wait! Where's Nick??

Ah...there's Scrap Daddy!

And...the three "Scrapkateers"!-Tracey, Michelle, and Maura

Congratulations Captured Moments on your first seven years!! The Anniversary crop was a blast, and in such a beautiful setting. Somehow, every time you do this, you make us feel special. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!

Halloween Sneak Peek #1

2011-09-27T11:44:00.001-04:00

Well, I believe that Maura is probably finished with her long distance Halloween Paper Bag Book based on her two sneak peeks that she has shared. I don't usually wait until the last minute on our projects, but for some reason with this one, it seems like I have.

So...here is my sneak peek (still a work in progress).

dark, rainy day = dark photo

Once again...it looks like we will have very different styles of books. I can't wait!

Now back to work.

Halloween Long Distance Project - Sneak Peek...#2

2011-09-25T06:00:00.000-04:00

The ghosties and ghoulies and goblins are gathering....and Sheila and I are due to share and exchange our long distance project soon. So, I just couldn't resist another sneak peak of one page in my book to share with you all. I added a couple of clear plastic pages into my book, and this is one. I like to peek through to the next page...kind of a sneak preview in itself :).

Now, what we would like to know from you, our blog readers, did you take us up on this challenge? Are you working on your Halloween paper bag book? Are you ready to share???

Halloween Countdown Project

2011-09-24T06:00:00.002-04:00

My very talented and creative friend, Doris, designed this project for us, and showed us how to make our own countdown to Halloween. I've always liked the Advent calendars at Christmas, so this was fun to do. Now, I have to decide whether I hang it up at home, or take it to school for my students to enjoy.

We started with a 12 x 12 cork board, and then I covered mine with patterned paper. Doris had cut out the cute "windows" from a Stampin Up die, and we stamped, and layered and embellished to our heart's content. At home, I added the numbers and buttons. Mine has a ribbon to hang it, but some of the ladies are putting theirs into a frame.

I wanted to make the black chipboard pieces "pop", so put crackle glaze on them. This is a close up of one of the pieces, and I just love the design and dimension that the crackle adds to it.

A BIG shout out to Doris for this perfect Halloween project!!

Open House Make and Take

2011-09-23T17:49:00.000-04:00

I forgot to take a picture of the sample of the project I put together for the open house at the store. I put together 30 little kits with either Halloween, fall or winter themed papers for the covers, and lined and blank paper inside. Then we "cinched" it together into this little notepad, topped it off with a button and thread (thought of you Sheila, and this post). It can be used to jot notes, or draw little pictures.

Captured Moments Open House

2011-09-19T06:00:00.000-04:00

Saturday, Captured Moments celebrated the store's 7th anniversary - Congratulations Tara and Tiffany, Nick and Maria on an exceptional "job well done"!! I went down for the day to do a make and take/demo using the Cinch, which will be used in an upcoming class I am teaching in October. We made a little notebook to carry, make lists, draw in...by covering chipboard and binding it together. Here are Sue, Michelle and Fran busy at work making their notebooks.

Here's to many, many more creative years with our good friends at Captured Moments!!

Stamping Tip

2011-09-18T06:00:00.000-04:00

I was looking for a piece of ribbon for a project and then decided to make my own using a scrap of twill and a rubber stamp. Simple and easy!

close up

finished goodie

I think a personalized ribbon using alphabet stamps would be great also. Lots of possibilities here.

Halloween Test Tube Holders

2011-09-16T06:00:00.006-04:00

I found this cute project for Halloween on Splitcoaststampers, and as a science teacher, I just could not resist posting this on the blog for you to check out how to make them. Lisa Somerville gives all the directions here, and you can also check out the video below.

Sheila here...Maura beat me to posting this tutorial (great minds think alike). I made Halloween test tube favors one year and they were a huge hit. I try not to repeat any past goodies that I have made, but I am always tempted by these test tubes. Love em! I even saw the Martha Stewart kits at my local Michael's the other day. With a 50% coupon, you can't beat it! Hurry, this coupon expires Saturday but I always google for a coupon before I head out the door-you can usually always find one.

Halloween Long Distance Project - Sneak Peek!

2011-09-14T06:00:00.002-04:00

I thought I would share a sneak peek of my preparations for making the cover of the Halloween paper bag album that I am working on with Sheila. I have been having a lot of fun with this project and am looking forward to sharing with Sheila, and all of you!

Materials laid out, ready to start

Canvas after prep with black acrylic paint, and my wild color designs

Final canvas with gold webbing spray added

Mark your calendars

2011-09-13T06:00:00.016-04:00

Something to look forward to

(especially if you like sitting in your pajamas, drinking coffee

and watching online crafting videos)....

My Craft Channel’s fall line-up includes 20 new shows a week

and all from recognizable top names in their genre.

Shout Out

2011-09-12T06:00:00.001-04:00

I just had to share this blog post that mentioned my little etsy shop. I've been working on some holiday items and was surprised to find THIS...

Thanks Bonnie Rose!

Another punch idea

2011-09-11T06:00:00.000-04:00

Here is yet another way to use your scallop circle punches. I have made these in the past and I would have actually made them to share on the blog, however, I'm not making Halloween goodies quite yet and if I bought a bag of Hershey Nuggets I am pretty sure that I would eat them all. So, here is a link to the video instead.

This idea would be just as cute with any stamp set you already have (or you can treat yourself to the Stampin' Up set like I think I will) and those nuggets are just as cute wrapped in a strip of patterned paper. I think a huge jar of these on a buffet table would be so cute as party favors.

Petal Card

2011-09-10T06:00:00.000-04:00

This week's SplitCoastStampers tutorial is a Petal Card. I love how she used four circles for the simple construction. These would be cute in even smaller sizes...think gift tags tied onto packages.

Enjoy!

Mini Handbag Sewing Kit

2011-09-07T06:00:00.003-04:00

cover

I ran across this really cute sewing idea from Leigh S-B Designs. Be sure to click HERE which will take you to her blog for the tutorial.

I think this would make a sweet gift.

inside

Art Exchange - School Theme page

2011-09-05T06:00:00.001-04:00

Front

Back

Here is what I made for a 4 x 4 page exchange with my art group.I found some nice vintage images of school girls, and a girl doing homework with her dog, a thermometer dial, an ink nib, pin, etc. layered over some old books. Then, I couldn't leave the back alone and had to add some cardboard and metal. I ended up with a pretty "chunky" page. Of course, this did get me thinking about my return to school in just another day...

Apple ATC's

2011-09-03T06:00:00.000-04:00

fronts

backs

I have an art exchange coming up this month with an "apple" theme. These are the ATC's I created using some of my apple stamps, old library cards, and embellishments. The backs have kind of a "school" theme, since I was also thinking "apple for the teacher".

Stamp Camp September Card

2011-09-01T06:00:00.001-04:00

Here is the card I designed for September's Stamp Camp for the card exchange - "When Pigs Fly". Did you know that the symbol of Cincinnati Ohio is the flying pig? I think we may have seen some pigs flying this last weekend when Hurricane Irene roared through here...well, we did see other objects flying through the air!

If you are interested in what I used, here are the materials:

Stamps - Stampin Up "Established Elegance", Clear Art Stamps "Office 101"

Paper: Stampin Up Very Vanilla, Cherry Cobbler, Soft Suede; Graphic 45-Renaissance Faire and Communique

Ribbon - Stampin Up

Inks - Stampin Up Cherry Cobbler, Memories Black, Quick Quotes Midnight Confession and Bloody Mary

other: pop dots, corner rounder

Crafty idea

2011-08-30T06:00:00.006-04:00

I love this card idea for kids from Shannon found via Hero Arts...

It's a great idea for a birthday card or even a get well card or even party favors, but....what about a grown-up version? I can easily see this as a crafty project for a crop or art gathering. How about a black and white stamped ATC card for everyone and let them at it with colored pencils, markers, or even crayons! It would be fun to see how all the finished cards turn out.