Scrapbooking and Other Tidbits

Thoughtful Tidings

2012-01-31T21:23:00.003-07:00

I love this new Stamp of the Month for February - Thoughtful Tidings #S1202. The variety of sentiments really get my creative juices flowing. And this month's stamp set has six images that are compatible with die cut shapes on the CTMH Art Philosophy Cricut cartridge. This stamp set retails for $17.95 during the month of February. You can also purchase this set for the super low price of just $5 with your qualifying purchase of $50.


Created by Sheila Wilkerson

Created by Cherri Hardcastle

Also Created by Cherri Hardcastle


Created by JudyFaye Gardner

Created by Melissa Robinson

A big thanks to my CTMH sisters who allowed me to share their artwork with you.

Have a Memorable Day,
Sheila

Typeset Scrapbook Layout

2012-01-25T13:34:00.000-07:00

Here is a two page layout I created using the CTMH Typeset Collection. The pattern is Enchantment from the Magic pattern book by Jeanette Lynton, founder of Close To My Heart. I'm anxious to get some prints on these pages. The corrugated shapes are also from CTMH, and add a lot of character to the page.

Have a memorable day,
Sheila

A Perfect 10 - For Studio J Members

2012-01-24T09:17:00.001-07:00

January is free layout month for Studio J^® members! For every 9 custom-printed Studio J layouts you buy, you’ll receive the 10th layout free. To receive the discount, just add 10 or more layouts to your cart. You’ll see a discount reflected in your order total. And you can totally take advantage of this promotion by ordering in multiples of 10. Buy 9, get 1 free. Buy 18, get 2 free. Buy 27, get 3 free. And so on! If you’re not a member yet, now’s a great time to join! Click HERE.

Here are a few of my Studio J creations:

Have a memorable day,

Sheila

Technique Hop - Create Your Own Argyle

2012-01-15T01:18:00.001-07:00

Welcome to the Technique Hop. If you'd like to see a complete list of artistic participants, click here. If you came from Wendy's blog, you are on the right track.

Wow! it felt good to get back in the studio to create for this month's Technique Hop. I took a longer-than-expected break for the holidays and some remodeling. I must admit when I first looked through the 2011 CTMH Fall/Winter Idea Book, I completely overlooked this Argyle Technique, but as you will see through this hop, there's more than meets the eye. Get creative * think outside the box * argyle isn't just for diamond-shapes anymore.

CTMH 2011 F/W Idea Book pg91

Ta-Da! Here's my interpretation of Argyle stamping with Tag The Occassion stamp set (B1362). I was inspired by the next holiday, Valentine's Day. You can hop to Lisa's blog to see more creativity.

I also used Roxy Level 2 paper pack (X7140B) * Bling Assortment (Z1466) * Dark Chocolate Striped Grosgrain ribbon (Z1617). Below is a glimpse into my creative process:

What a MESS!

Arglye with Hearts.

Have a Memorable Day,

Sheila

Cozy Teacher Gifts

2011-12-17T06:00:00.000-07:00

One of my children has 9 teachers, and buying gift cards or presents for all of them would get pretty expensive. But I want to show them we appreciate them and give them some holiday cheer. I've made up these Slide Cards for them. It's all in the presentation, right? These will be easy for my daughter to take to school rather than 9 tins of popcorn. LOL

I really like these Slide Cards. When you pull up on the ribbon a nice surprise appears. We chose a gourmet hot chocolate mix. You can also use apple cider mix.

I used CTMH stamp "A Sip" (A1109) and Wonderland paper (X7146B)

Happy Holidays,
Sheila

Technique Blog Hop - Glitz Glitter Gel

2011-12-15T05:00:00.000-07:00

Gold and Silver and Rubies - Oh My! The Glitz Glitter Gel is probably my most favorite new product in the Close To My Heart Fall Winter 2011 Idea Book. And it's only $2.75 each! Thanks for visiting our Technique Blog Hop. If you came from Tabbi's blog, you're on the right track. To see a complete listing of this month's participants, click here. You can move through the hop and see how this group of talented artists used this to add some bling-bling to spice up their creations.

I love the Silver Glitz the most...it looks like diamonds, and diamonds are a girl's best friend. See how they make the snowflakes pop on the following cards. This ornament-shaped card and snowflake border were made using the Art Philosophy Cricut cartridge.

One more example of flashy snowflakes on a 12 x 12 layout...

Thanks for stopping by. Now hop on over to Tracey's blog to see more creations. Have a memorable day.
Sheila

Studio J-Poloosa

2011-12-06T08:27:00.001-07:00

I like to work with Studio J (On Line "Digital" scrapbooking from Close To My Heart) when I'm catching up on movies on the DVR. All I need is my laptop; no card table, no Ott light, no adhesive, paper trimmer, box of photos...you get the picture. I'm at least two years behind in archiving my memories, so I decided to do all of my 2010 photos using Studio J, and I made quite a dent last month when I created these pages:

This is a "members only" paper kit that is themed around tools and building, perfect for those masculine layouts. In addition to members only paper kits, there are members only patterns as well. If you're interested in a Studio J membership, contact me. There are additional perks like free shipping and page protectors.

Notice the stitching around the title in this layout. No blood was shed in creating this stitching. LOL In Studio J, there are options for stitched hearts, circles, and squares. You can even zig-zag. LOVE IT!

One of my favorite things about Studio J is the ability to click and drag my photos into the photo wells and watch them resize to fit the space, whether its 2x2 or 8x10. I don't have to worry about cropping photos. This feature is great for deleting people out of a shot too. Another great thing is nothing is crooked, unless it's supposed to be.

Another favorite thing about Studio J is how easy it is to make these collage-type layouts. I was able tell the story of our trip to Disneyland with one layout. This wasn't our first trip to the happiest place on earth, so I didn't feel like it was necessary to scrapbook every single moment. But if I wanted to I could with Studio J. Oh and notice the captions right on top of the photos, I like that too.

I've already got a few more layouts in my Studio J cue. My goal is to cue up 4-10 layouts a month and then place my order. If you'd like a personal demo of Studio J, let me know.

Have a memorable day,

Sheila

December Stamp of the Month Hop

2011-11-30T18:13:00.000-07:00

Is it too early to think about Valentine's Day in December? Not when you can get this adorable stamp for just $5* from Close To My Heart. Mad About You is the Stamp of the Month available through December 31st. And the images are compatible with the Art Philosophy Cricut cartridge. (*$5 with a minimum $50 purchase, or $17.95. Shipping & handling applies.)

This is a blog hop featuring artwork using this exclusive stamp set. If you came here from Melissa's blog, your're on the right track.

Thanks for looking. Now hop on over to Judyfaye's blog to see more inspiring artwork.

Sheila

Technique Hop - Ghosting

2011-11-15T03:59:00.000-07:00

Welcome to our Technique Blog Hop. This month we are showing examples of Ghosting, as seen in the Close To My Heart 2011 Autumn/Winter Idea Book on page 45. If you've come from Michelle's blog, your heading in the right direction. Click here to see a list of all participants in this hop.

In this scrapbook layout I used the Wonderland paper from CTMH. The stamped image is from the Snow Flurries stamp set. I stamped the snowy flourish with Versamark Ink then sprinkled clear detail embossing powder over the image. After setting the embossing powder with a heat tool, I sponged Twilight Ink over the area. The embossed image resists the Twilight ink and creates a negative image. After that I used a clean white piece of copy paper and covered the embossed/sponged area, and then pressed a hot iron on top to remove the shine of the set embossing powder and leave behind a white matte finish.

Thanks for looking, now hop on over to Debi's blog for more artwork featuring Ghosting.

Have a memorable day,
Sheila

Finally, The Camping Layouts

2011-11-04T13:13:00.001-07:00

I'm a little behind in my scrapbooking, okay almost two years behind. I had so much fun creating these four layouts of my men on their annual "boys camp" as my littlest man calls it (he's 4 in these pics). The paper is Back Country from Close To My Heart and I'm sad to say it is no longer available. I sure hope there's another awesome outdoorsy paper collection in the upcoming Spring Summer Idea Book, due out in February 2012. As you'll notice in the layouts below, I haven't journaled yet, so technically I'm not done; but I wanted to share them with you. I used a few different Cricut cartridges along with the Bank Country Stickease for embellishments. Enjoy...

November Stamp of the Month: Cherish The Day

2011-11-03T13:33:00.000-07:00

This month's featured stamp set is a collection of tickets celebrating each month of the year. But as you can see from the artwork above, you don't have to use the images exclusively for tickets. I love the tags and labels as well. Have fun with it and think outside the box or 'ticket'.

Below is more artwork created by me and a few of my Close To My Heart Sistahs. We used the Dreamin paper collection:

Created by Sheila Wilkerson

Created by Sharryl Hales

Created by Eileen Windsor

Created by Melissa Robinson

I hope these inspire you to create something today.

Sheila

Santa Claus is Comin...

2011-10-19T11:59:00.000-07:00

Have you started thinking about Christmas; presents, travel, baking for the neighbors? I'm not even ready for Halloween, but I created these two layouts for my scrapbook playgroup in November. We are using Believe Level 2 paper and Holdiay Pockets. The titles were made with Noteworthy Dimensional Elements. I added a bit of sparkle with my favorite new product, Glitz Silver glitter gel. This stuff is so easy to apply and it looks like diamonds when it dries. I love it!

Thanks for stopping by, have a memorable day!

Sheila

Dreamin' of Fall

2011-10-19T11:53:00.000-07:00

These colors remind me of Indian Summer and cooler nights. In Arizona we have to be very patient for Indian Summer...Its the middle of October and the temps are still in the 90s.

These layouts were created using Dreamin Level 2 paper and Level 2 Stickease. The inspiration came right from the back of the stickers. Sometimes its okay to cheat, right?

I used the Art Philosophy cricut cartridge to create athe scallop (1.25") on the "Family" layout, and the chocolate colored mat (6") underneath the journaling square on the "Dreams" layout.

Have a memorable day,

Sheila

October Stamp of the Month Artwork

2011-09-30T18:00:00.002-07:00

Welcome to our Stamp of the Month Blog Hop featuring this month's stamp set, Holiday Magic. We are thrilled to showcase some fun uses for this gorgeous stamp set!

This hop is one big circle so feel free to start here and move through the entire loop. You can also find a complete listing of all 13 participants by visiting this blog. If you have arrived here from MELISSA'S blog, you are on the right track! So... let's get started!

I made this is a 6x6 inch card using Elemental paper and the Mistle Toe stamp set. The oval was cut using the Cricut Art Philosophy cartridge. The sparkle is Broze Glitz Glitter Glue. I love it.

Thank you for stopping by. Now hop on over to NEELY'S blog where you will find another inspirational use of this stamp set!

Have a memorable day,

Sheila

Cricut Expression Machine On Sale

2011-09-12T09:51:00.000-07:00

This week Hobby Lobby is offering the Cricut Expression machine for $149.99. That's a pretty good price for a brand new machine. And if you have a store near you, no shipping charges. Partner your new machine with the Art Philosophy Cricut cartridge exclusively from Close To My Heart to create artwork like the card below.

Mischief Isn't Just for Halloween

2011-09-07T08:41:00.001-07:00

I created this festive Fall themed layout using the Mischief paper kit and Level 2 rub-ons from Close To My Heart. I love how much character the rub-on images add to the page. Oh and those Desert Sand shapes under my pumpkin rub-ons...I cut those with the Art Philosophy cricut cartridge. How did we get by for so long without that?

Let me explain the banana...my younger kids went to a pumpkin patch for a preschool fieldtrip and collected there tiny pumpkins. Our older daughter wanted to decorate something too, so I handed her a banana. We'll see if that catches on.

Have a memorable day,
Sheila

September Stamp of the Month Hop

2011-09-01T16:35:00.002-07:00

Where is the time going? It's September already and that means new artwork with the Limited Edition Stamp of the Month set from Close To My Heart. This set contains 21 images and can be yours for $5 with a qualifying $50 purchase.

Several wonderful consultants have joined me in sharing their Limited Edition artwork to inspire you. So "hop" on through and get some great ideas. Feel free to leave comments along the way. You should have arrived here from LORUS's blog.

I created this card base and ticket shape with my Art Philosophy cricut cartridge (Z1686). The papers are from the Typeset level 2 paper kit (X 7139B). The coorugated star is from the Milepost Shapes (Z1464).

Click here to continue to LISA's blog and see more delicious ideas for this stamp set.

Have a memorable day,
Sheila

Back to School Layout

2011-08-30T09:38:00.002-07:00

I'm pretty excited to get my back to school photos off my SD card and onto this cute scrapbook page. I copied the page right out of the new CTMH Idea Book (pg. 97). I changed up the paper to Dreamin' (X7142B). The stamp set is School Rocks (B1396).

Notice the pattern behind "days"? I cut a border with the Art Philosophy cricut cartridge and used it as a stencil. I sponged Desert Sand ink over the die cut, and then removed it. I love the look. That came from the Idea Book too.

Oh, and the word SCHOOL is made with our new CORK Color Ready Alphabets (Z1450). They're adhesive backed and ready to add to your page. I used a Chocolate Marker to add a little color to them.

Have a memorable day,
Sheila

Hostess Goodie Bag

2011-08-26T22:30:00.001-07:00

My friend Jena had a home gathering, and as a thank you gift I gave her this adorable bag of goodies (if I do say so myself). The bag and cards were made using the Blue Ribbon stamp set which coordinates with the CTMH exclusive Art Philosophy Cricut cartridge. The gift bag was also cut with the cricut cartridge. The paper is from the Lucky paper collection.

Technique Hop - Glossy Dimension

2011-08-15T00:20:00.004-07:00

Welcome to our Technique Blog Hop! This month there are 13 of us highlighting the GLOSSY DIMENSION technique as shown on page 23 in the Close To My Heart Autumn/Winter 2011 Idea Book. This blog hop is a great big circle so you can start wherever you want and continue through to see all the fabulous artwork incorporating this technique. If you would like to start from the beginning, please visit this link. While there you will also find a listing of all participants and their blog addresses if you should get lost or want to reference a blog along the way. Let’s get started!

If you are coming from NEELY'S blog, you are on the right track!

Continue reading for instructions on how I made the P-u-m-p-k-i-n letters glossy. Thanks for stopping by! Please continue to BECCA'S blog where you will find some additional artwork highlighting this technique. Be sure to leave a comment and let me know what you thought of my variation and happy hopping!

Tutorial:
I created this Pumpkin Fun layout using Mischief level 2 paper kit (X7144B) and the On with the Show template in the Magic how-to book from Close To My Heart. I adhered my Dimensional Elements chipboard letters to my layout first so I wouldn't have to handle them after making them glossy. This was a little risky because I could have made a mess with my product, so you may want to apply your chipboard after applying the "glossy."

You will need Liquid Glass (Item Z679) and reinker of your choice, I used black. I like to cover a bowl with tinfoil for the mixing of the Liquid Glass and reinker. A toothpick or Embossing stylus works well for mixing and applying the gloss.

I cover a bowl with tinfoil for easy clean up once the project is done

Add Liquid Glass and a few drops of reinker until you have the desired color.

Mix with a toothpick or Embossing Tool

Apply the Liquid Glass/Ink mixture to the Dimensional Elements chipboard. Allow to dry for several hours.
Clean up is a snap. Toss the tinfoil and rinse off your Embossing Tool.

Have a memorable day,

Sheila

Hooray Bouquet & Cricut

2011-08-09T09:00:00.002-07:00

Here is another card I created with the new Art Philosophy Cricut cartridge from Close To My Heart. I used Hooray Bouquet (D1491), another Cricut-compatible My Acrylix stamp set. This is just one of the many stamp sets in the new Idea Book that is compatible with the Cricut Art Philosophy cartridge. The image size of the stamp is cleverly printed on the carrying sheet so you know exactly what settings to use with your Cricut for a perfect fit. The paper is Elemental (X7141B).

These flowers were a snap to create, since I didn't need to cut them by hand. The flowers, green circle,sentiment tag and the watermelon were all cut with the CTMH Cricut cartridge, even the seeds.

How I Spent My Summer Vacation

2011-08-08T13:12:00.000-07:00

That's me, ready to show hundreds of enthusiastic Close To My Heart consultants creative ways to use the new Cricut Art Philosophy cartridge which was revealed at our national convention at the Disneyland Hotel last month. In the Spring I was selected along with 27 other creative women to teach classes on the new products launched in the 2011 Fall/Winter Idea Book. I've known about this exciting new product for months, but was sworn to secrecy. I'm so glad the word is finally out, because it's too good to keep to myself.

I'll be sharing some of my creations in future posts, so check back often. If you would like to subscribe by email, fill in the box to the right so you don't miss anything.

Have a memorable day,

Sheila

CTMH's Cricut Art Philosophy Collection

2011-08-06T15:10:00.001-07:00

The geniuses at Close To My Heart have teamed up with Cricut to bring you an amazing Art Philosophy cartridge that pairs with CTMH clear My Acrylix stamps and Dimensional Elements chipboard. Simply plug the cartridge into your Cricut and you’re ready to cut any of the 700 shapes, ranging from elegant roses to trendy gift boxes and banners! There's even an alphabet. You’ll also receive three stamp sets (valued at $53.85) as well as three sets of 9" × 12" Dimensional Elements chipboard (valued at $14.85) that work in tandem with the cartridge. On top of that, numerous My Acrylix stamp sets in the new CTMH Idea Book pair wonderfully with images on the Cricut® cartridge. When looking through the Idea Book, you’ll see red lines around the images that coordinate with the cartridge, and the cutting size setting is right on the stamp's carrying sheet (how smart is that?). Click here to purchase your Art Philosophy collection today.

Dream of the possibilities you could create with the new Cricut Art Philosophy cartridge and coordinating products from Close To My Heart. I used the new Sonoma paper (Item X7143B) to create this banner with my cartridge.

Wicked Blog Hop

2011-08-04T19:00:00.004-07:00

Welcome. I hope you are enjoying our Stamp of the Month blog hop viewing all the creative ways to use the Wicked stamp set. This stamp set contains 9 images perfect for your Halloween crafts. It is available for just $5 with a $50 purchase! [Be sure to check out the super cute cards and treat box you can create with this stamp set by clicking here.]

Some wonderful Close To My Heart consultants have joined me in creating artwork for this blog hop which works as a circle. So begin "hopping" by clicking the links, and feel free to leave comments along the way.

You should have arrived here from Lorus's blog.

This card features the new Mischief paper kit from Close To My Heart. "Wicked Halloween" is stamped on a die cut created with the new exclusive Cricut cartridge, Art Philosophy.

Thank you for stopping by. Now hop on over to Marianne's blog to see her creative use of this stamp set!

Have a memorable day,

Sheila

I Love the NEW Stamp of the Month Program

2011-08-02T17:30:00.000-07:00

Each month Close To My Heart offers a new D-size stamp set, available for one month only. Now the Stamp of the Month is even more affordable than before. When you place an order of $50 or more in CTMH products, you will get the Stamp of the Month for just $5 - that's 72% off the full retail price! Even the full price has been lowered five bucks to $17.95. [Studio J purchases do not qualify for the stamp of the month. Shipping charges are calculated on the full retail value.]

But wait, there's more...to celebrate the new Stamp of the Month program, you'll receive this Typeface alphabet stamp set as a free bonus when you purchase $50 in products and the Wicked stamp set for $5.

Look at this great holiday project you can create with your Wicked Stamp of the Month.

Want to make your own Delightfully Wicked Cards and Treat Box? See project tips online by clicking here. Project tips and instructions will be online for one year from the date the stamp set is available, but the Wicked stamp set is only available during the month of August.

Materials Needed

S1108 My Acrylix® Wicked
X7144B Mischief Level 2 Paper Packet
X5913 Light Neutral Cardstock Shade Pack
Z1487 Mini-Medley Accents Pewter Collection
Z1335 Opaques Licorice Adhesive Gems
Z282 Black Hemp

Required Tools

Z1647 My Creations® Card Box
Z2105 Black Exclusive Inks® Pad
Z2111 Chocolate Exclusive Inks® Pad
Z2191 Sunset Exclusive Inks® Pad
Z2305 Black Exclusive Inks® Marker
E1016 My Acrylix® Friendship Alphabet Large
Z1311 1 1/4" Circle Punch
Z1114 Piercing Tool Kit
Z697 Sponge
Z341 Mini Glue Dots®
Z1151 3-D Foam Tape
Y1002 1" x 3 1/2" My Acrylix® Block
Y1009 2" x 3 1/2" My Acrylix® Block
Y1010 2" x 6 1/2" My Acrylix® Block
Y1012 4" x 5" My Acrylix® Block

Have a memorable day,

Sheila

Close To My Heart 2011 Retiring Products List – Last Day to Order is July 31st!

2011-07-22T22:09:00.001-07:00

With the soon-to-be released Close To My Heart Autumn/Winter Idea Book (Coming August 1st), it’s time for you to get your hands on all the wonderful products that will be retiring on July 31st. Now is the time that you may want to stock up on some items to get more ‘Bang for your Buck’…purchase $50 or more in products from the Spring/Summer 2011 Idea Book and get a select My Creations Card Kit or Creative Basics Kit for only $1!

Close To My Heart 2011 Retiring Products List

These items will not be available after July 31st.

(Click here to view the Spring/Summer 2011 Online Idea Book)

My Relections Kits, Papers & My Stickease – Pgs 6 - 39
All Level One Scrapbook Kits
Bliss Level 2 Paper Packet and My Stickease
Miracle Level 2 Paper Packet and My Stickease
Sweetheart Level 2 Paper Packet and My Stickease
Wings Level 2 Paper Packet and My Stickease
Magnifique Level 2 Paper Packet and My Stickease
Olivia Level 2 Paper Packet and My Stickease
Hooligans Level 2 Paper Packet and My Stickease
Mistletoe Level 2 Paper Packet and My Stickease

Acrylic Blocks – Pg 45
1” x 1 ½” block (Y1001)
1” x 6 ½” block (Y1005)
2” x 11” block (Y1007)
2 ½” x 2 ½” block (Y1004)
4 ½” x 6 ½” block (Y1011)
My Acrylix block starter kit (Y1500)

Embellishments & Tools – Pgs 113 - 123
Designer ribbon – Cranberry (Z1209)
Designer ribbon – Buttercup (Z1154)
Designer ribbon – Sweet Leaf (Z1125)
Sophia Level 2 Journaling Spots (Z1357)
Mini Medley Accents – Pear (Z1339)
Mini Medley Accents – Lagoon (Z1340)
Mini Medley Accents – Outdoor Denim (Z1277)
Top Coats – Framed In (Z1211)
Rub Ons – Across the Board (Z1231)
Rub Ons – Primavera (Z1265)
Kraft Color Ready Borders (Z1377)
Red Eye Pen (3501)
Embossing Powders – Clear (Z671)
Embossing Powders – Heavenly Blue (Z647)
Embossing Powders – Pansy Purple (Z664)
Embossing Powders – Silver Pearl (Z678)
Block Buddy Set Z1289 121 Pivot Point Stapler (Z1009)
Texture Tools – Foam Tools (Z1090)
Fun Flock (Z263)
My Accents Block Organizer (Z185)

Cardstock – Pgs 124 - 125
24 pks of Cardstock will only be offered in these colors after July 31st: Kraft,
   Black, White Daisy, Colonial White, Vanilla Cream, Chocolate, Cocoa, Desert
   Sand, Bamboo, Sweet Leaf, Pacifica, Smoothie, Creme Brulee, Olive,
   Cranberry, and Outdoor Denim
Textured Cardstock – White Daisy
We are not retiring any colors and you will be able to purchase the other colors in combo packs.

Inks and Markers – Pgs 124 - 125
After July 31st, you will be able to purchase our stamp pads and markers individually. We will no longer offer them in sets of color families. Order before July 31st so that you can receive the Color Family Set discounted price.

Dimensional Elements – Pgs 118 - 119
Dimensional Elements – Villa (Z1390)
Dimensional Elements – Miracle (Z1354)
Dimensional Elements – Booksmart (Z1223)
Dimensional Elements – Borders (Z1156)
Dimensional Elements – Framed Fun (Z1140)
Dimensional Elements – Plain Chipboard (Z1164)
Dimensional Elements – Stars (Z1312)
All Dimensional Elements Monograms – A – Z

Other Items
All Envelope flats – Pg 114
3” x 3” Mini Album (Z1166) – Pg 120
My Creations 3 ring binder (Z1141) – Pg 120

These Workshops on the Go Kits are available only through August 31st – Pgs 41 - 43
Sweetheart (G1017)
Lucky (G1018)
Sophia (G1019)
Bliss (G1020)
Fanfare (G1021)
Mayberry (G1022)
Miracle (G1023)
Wings (G1016)

My Acrylix Stamp Sets

To place an order, shop online at MyCTMH Website or Contact Me to place your order by email no later than July 31st.

Have a memorable day,

Sheila

Technique Blog Hop - Beyond BANNERS

2011-07-10T02:29:00.002-07:00

Welcome to our Technique Blog Hop! Banners are all the rage now. You see them everywhere. This month we are featuring the banner technique on page 35 of the Close To My Heart Spring/Summer 2011 Idea Book, but with a twist. Our goal was to use something other than triangles to create the banners. Our blog hop is a big circle so you can start wherever you want and continue through to see all the fabulous artwork incorporating this technique. If you would like to start from the beginning, please visit this link. While there you will also find a listing of all participants and their blog addresses, if you should get lost or want to reference a blog along the way Let’s get started!

If you are coming from Judy Faye Garner's blog, you are on the right track! This technique showcases the Fanfare paper packet in the Idea Book but you will find variations through this hop.

I used stamped letters to create the banner on this layout.

I used Waxy Flax to "string" the banner together.

Isn't he a cute boy?! He wanted a REAL motor home for his
birthday! Legos are more in my price range.

Here is a card I made using star images from the July Stamp of the Month
"American Celebration" to create a unique banner.
I used small stars to "string" together the banner.

Thanks for stopping by. Comments are appreciated. Please continue to Kelly George's blog to see additional Banner artwork...happy hopping!

Amerian Celebration - July Stamp of the Month

2011-07-02T16:17:00.000-07:00

I love when a new month starts and I can share with you the newest Stamp of the Month from Close To My Heart. This stamp set is just in time for those 4th of July picnics. This set and the Fanfare paper pack were MFEO (Made For Each Other).

To create my flag in red, white & blue I stamped the flag image once in Cranberry ink, and I stamped the same flag image a second time in Pacifica ink. Then I cut out the rectangle with the star from the blue image and placed it directly over the top of the red rectangle. Ta-da! I achieved that rustic look by stamping the Cranberry flag in 2nd Generation ink. See my post below if you need a refresher on G2 stamping.

I hope you all have a safe and cool 4th of July, full of wonderful memories to celebrate and cherish.

Technique Blog Hop - Beyond Base & Shade Stamping

2011-06-15T04:00:00.002-07:00

Welcome to our Technique Blog Hop! This month we are highlighting the “Paper Beyond Base and Shade Stamping” Technique as shown on page 11 in the Spring/Summer 2011 Idea Book! This blog hop is a great big circle so you can start wherever you want and continue through to see all the fabulous artwork incorporating this technique. If you would like to start from the beginning, please visit this link. While there you will also find a listing of all participants and their blog addresses if you should get lost or want to reference a blog along the way. Let’s get started!

If you are coming from TONYA's Blog, you are on the right track! This technique is highlighted with the Sophia paper packet in the Idea Book but you will find variations for its’ use through this hop.

Base and Shade stamping is usually achieved with two stamp images. See the flowers in the foreground of the picture below? The solid image is the "base", and the other image is the detail that is stamped on top of the base image. This is a fairly simple process thanks to My Acrylix clear stamps from Close To My Heart. I'm going to show you another way to use your stamps for base & shade stamping...

You can use just about any symetrical stamp for the base AND the detail. Just turn the stamp over and use the flat surface area for the base and stamp it in second generation ink. [We could be really techie and call it "G2". Haha] In case you are unfamiliar with second generation stamping: Ink up your image and stamp it on a scrap piece of paper. Then stamp the same image a second time on your project without re-inking it. This will create a lighter version of the original image.

Here is the flat surface on the back of a My Acrylix clear stamp.

The stamp is placed on the acrylic block upside down.

Base created in 2nd Generation stamping

Once you've created a base in second generation ink, clean your stamp, turn it over and stamp the image in full-strength, first-generation ink right over your base.

You can see the 2nd Generation-stamped image in the background on the paper.

This is what you'll end up with:

Below I've stamped the image on the left using just the main detailed stamp image straight to cardstock. The image on the right is stamped on top of a second generation base using the back of the stamp.

I cut out the base & shade image, sponged the edges with the same ink color, and gave it a little more character by crimping the points.

I added a few more layers of stamped images and a brad and made it the focal point of this gift card.

Give it a try with your asymetrical stamps. They have to be the same shape if you use the reverse side so the images will line up.

Thanks for stopping by! Please continue onto DEBI's Blog where you will find some additional artwork highlighting this technique! Be sure to leave a comment and let me know what you thought of my variation and happy hopping!

Supply List: (All Close To My Heart products)
Bliss Level 2 Paper Pack (X7132B)
Chocolate Exclusive Inks Stamp Pad (Z2111)
Simple Memories stamp set (D1472)
Kraft Color Ready Borders (Z1377)
Brads - Metal Assortment (Z1366)

June Stamp of the Month: Jubilation

2011-06-07T17:01:00.002-07:00

I love stamp sets with a potpourri of images. The June stamp of the month has something for every occassion, making it a real bargain. I created this Good Luck card using the shamrock image from the set and paper from the Mayberry collection.

The shamrock is stamped and cut out four times and layered on top of each other. I added some texture with my sewing machine. Who'da-thunk that we would ever sew paper?! The "Good Luck" image is stamped on to our new canvas button badges. These self-adhesive badges are easy to customize with stamps and ink. The window is created with a 2" scalloped circle punch and adhered to the front of the card with 3D foam. Here's another view:

Bliss Wedding Album

2011-05-26T11:29:00.000-07:00

I had a great time making this 20-page wedding album for a friend of mine. Everything is Close To My Heart, of course. A supply list is at the end of this post.

Supply List (All Close To My Heart):

Bliss Level 2 paper pack

Additional cardstock - Vanilla Creme, Grey Flannel, Colonial White, Chocolate

Chocolate and Vanilla Creme Exclusive Inks

Stamps-

Our Wedding Day (ret'd.)

Love Ya

You & Me (exclusively available in the You & Me scrapbook kit - available thru 5/31/2011)

Dreams Come True

Cherished Flourishes

Felicity (ret'd)

Wings Workshop

Simple Memories

Sans Alphabet

Bohemian Alphabet

All layouts are from Cherish, Imagine, Magic and Reflections "how-to" books

Other embellishments - Brads, buttons, Opaques, ribbon, Foundry Flourishes, Just Blooms, sparkles

Fanfare Scrapbooking Workshop

2011-05-18T19:36:00.000-07:00

This paper collection reminds me of the 4th of July, small-town-parades & picnics and all things Summer! It's also great for pool parties and birthday parties. If you'd like to create four 12x12 pages with me in June contact me by May 26th to pre-order your kit, or click here to shop on-line. There's no additional fee, just your workshop supplies.

When: Thursday June 2nd @ 1:00 PM or Friday June 10th @ 7:30 PM, plan to crop for about 2-1/2 hours.
Where: My Home-Studio in East Mesa (Baseline/Crismon).

What you'll need:
Fanfare Level 2 paper packet (X7138B) $12.95 pg.36 or Fanfare Workshop Kit (G1022) $29.95 pg. 42
Fanfare Level 2 My Stickease Asst. (X7138C) $4.95
Fanfare Level 2 Assortment (Z1400) $4.95

Please bring - paper trimmer, scissors, adhesive, piercing tool, glue dots, 3D foam tape.

This is a fun girls' night out. Sign up today!

Technique Blog Hop - Paper Piecing

2011-05-15T00:09:00.003-07:00

Welcome to our Technique Blog Hop! This month we are highlighting the “Paper Piecing” Technique as shown on page 27 in the CTMH Spring/Summer 2011 Idea Book. This blog hop is a great big circle so you can start wherever you want and continue through to see all the fabulous artwork incorporating this technique. If you would like to start from the beginning, please visit this link. While there you will also find a listing of all participants and their blog addresses if you should get lost or want to reference a blog along the way. Let’s get started!

If you are coming from Tonya's blog, you are on the right track. In the Idea Book this technique is highlighted with the Sophia paper packet, but you will find variations for its’ use through this hop.

If you would like to see details on the technique, please continue reading below. If not, please continue onto Debi's blog where you will find some additional artwork highlighting this technique! Be sure to leave a comment and let me know what you thought of my variation and happy hopping!

Here we go...Since it's National Scrapbooking Month, I used the Ms. Scrapbook stamp set and an old favorite, Cherry-O paper collection for this two-page layout. First, I stamped the image several times on different patterned paper and cardstock to create my "puzzle pieces."

Next, I trimmed all the images

Finally I put all the pieces together to create one colorful image. I could have colored in this image with markers or chalks, but by using paper piecing I can have plaid pants and a speckled apron.

An essential tool for paper piecing is the Bonding Memories Glue Pen. The chisel tip works wonders when piecing together all the shapes.

Here's how Ms. Scrapbook looks on the layout

May is National Scrapbooking Month

2011-05-03T11:23:00.001-07:00

I love that National Scrapbooking Month (NSD) and Mother's Day are both this month! And I'm excited to show you what Close To My Heart has put together for NSD.

Here's what you get

1 - D-size My Acrylix Stamp set

1 - 12" x 12" Colonial White Cardstock

6 - B&T Duos patterned paper (new heavier weight)

1 - You & Me Irrisistable chipboard die cuts

1 yard chocolate striped ribbon

1 pkg Opaques Mocha adhesive pearls

1 - Instruction Guide

Here's a closer look at the patterened paper:

You can get your exclusive You & Me scrapbook kit during the month of May for just $15 with a minimum purchase of $50 in Close To My Heart Products. Or you can purchase the kit by itself for $34.95. The kit is free when you become a Close To My Heart Consultant. Visit my website to get yours today.

Now I've got to stop blogging and go play with my own You & Me scrapbook kit!

Layered Flowers Blog Hop

2011-04-14T14:18:00.000-07:00

Welcome to our newest Technique Blog Hop! This month there are 12 of us highlighting the “Layered Flowers” technique as shown on page 7 in the Close To My Heaert Spring/Summer 2011 Idea Book! This blog hop is a great big circle so you can start wherever you want and continue through to see all the fabulous artwork incorporating this technique. If you would like to start from the beginning, please visit this link. While there you will also find a listing of all participants and their blog addresses if you should get lost or want to reference a blog along the way. Let’s get started!

If you are coming from TONYA WHITEHURST'S Blog, you are on the right track! This technique is highlighted with the Sophia paper packet in the Idea Book but you will find variations for its’ use through this hop.

I used the Extreme Happiness stamp set (Item C1356) and papers from the Miracle Level 2 paper pack (Item X7133B) to create this "Paradise" card. I love how the Honey-colored hibiscus flower pops against the muted tones of Bamboo, Crystal Blue and Sweet Leaf in the Miracle Collection.

If you would like to see details on the technique or my supply list, please continue reading below. If not, please continue on to DEBI BARBER'S blog where you will find some additional artwork highlighting this technique! Be sure to leave a comment and let me know what you thought of my variation and happy hopping!

The steps to Layered Flowers are:

1. Stamp base image in one color and outline in another (if applicable to stamp selected). Repeat on another piece of cardstock.

2. Trim first image around all outer images.

Trim second image, cutting out portions of the flower (to create the layered effect).

3. Curl ends of petals on second image and adhere on top of first image. Layer mixtures of stamped accent and embellishments to finish.

Thanks for stopping by! Continue onto DEBI BARBER'S blog to continue the hop!

This Is NOT April Fools...

2011-04-02T19:03:00.000-07:00

Wowzers! There's a huge sale going on at my Close To My Heart website. This Cherry-O bundle is selling for an amazing $15 (retail value $32.80!!). You'll see more deals at my website. These items are While Supplies Last.

Also, when your order reaches $100 or more you can select a My Reflections Level 1 kit for free (retail value $9.95). You'll also get the April Stamp of the Month Blessed for free (retail value $22.95). Now that's a great deal!!

And don't forget the Hope for Japan stamp set available this month for $5. All proceeds go to the Red Cross for the Japan earthquake victims.

Hope for Japan

2011-04-01T08:05:00.010-07:00

In 1991 I lived in Tokyo, Japan serving a religious mission for my church. One morning I awoke to tremors from an earthquake centered near Yokohama, many miles south of my six-story apartment building. You'd think growing up in Southern California, I'd know how to handle a little movement but that six-point-something quake took me by surprise.

The Sendai quake is unlike anything any of us has ever experienced before. If you're like me, you've been awestruck by images of the destruction in that region, wondering how you can help. Close To My Heart has created a stamp set called Hope for Japan...it's just Five Bucks, and all profits go to the American Red Cross efforts in Japan. This offer is available through April 30th. Contact me or visit my website to order one, or more.

April Stamp of the Month: Blessed

2011-04-01T08:00:00.001-07:00

I was pleasantly surprised by the versatility of this month's stamp set. You'll see what I mean when you scroll down. I decided to get out of my comfort zone and make a circle card from the Wishes book. The papers are from the Sweetheart paper pack (Item X7134B).

You can get this stamp set at a discounted price with purchase:

You spend: $25         $50.00     $75.00       $100.00
Savings:      25% off   50% off     75% off     FREE!
You pay:    $17.21      $11.48      $5.74        FREE!

Contact me or visit my website to order yours.

Thanks to the following Consultants who contributed to this artwork display:
Michelle Battitori, Neely Dean, Judy Faye Garner, Carol Harris, Sharryl Hales, Cathy Rogers, Joy McHargue, Julyne Morvis, Melissa Robinson, Shirley Ross, Rachel Ventura, and Tonya Whitehurst.

Happy Easter - A Sensational Season

2011-03-31T23:22:00.001-07:00

Happy Easter everyone. I'm thankful that Easter is in late April this year, the 24th to be exact. It gives me time to recover from the Valentine's candy. However, this means it will be 90+ degrees here in Arizona for the annual Egg Hunt. I feel sorry for the guy in the bunny suit.

Created by Jody Peck

I received this adorable card from my friend, Jody Peck. It's made with the March Stamp of the Month: "Sensational Season", and a variety of Close To My Heart exclusive papers. I love this. It's not too late to get the March stamp set. Contact me before April 5th to get yours.

Contrast Embossing Blog Hop

2011-03-15T06:44:00.007-07:00

Welcome to our first Technique Blog Hop! This month there are 11 of us highlighting the “Contrast Embossing” Technique as shown on page 31 in the Spring/Summer 2011 Idea Book. You will find several variations of this technique as you continue through all the blogs to see the fabulous artwork. Start where ever you like, but if you would like to start from the beginning please visit this link. While there you will also find a listing of all participants and their blog addresses if you should get lost or want to reference a blog along the way. Let’s get started!

If you are coming from Xellina Wieland's blog, you are on the right track!

I used Friendship Blessings stamp set (Item D1191) to create this card. Colors used are Cotton Candy, Sweet Leaf, and Cocoa. I also used Cocoa embossing powder.

If you would like to see details on the technique, please continue reading below. If not, please continue on to Debi Barber's blog where you will find some additional artwork highlighting this technique. Be sure to leave a comment and let me know what you thought of my variation and happy hopping!

The steps to Contrast Embossing are:

Stamp background image on project.
Stamp additional images in Versamark ink. Sprinkle with contrasting color of embossing powder.
Tap off excess powder. Set with craft heater.

Here you can see a visual demonstration of this technique.

Thanks for stopping by! Continue onto Debi Barber's blog to continue the hop!

More Spray Pen Fun

2011-03-07T10:21:00.000-07:00

This card was created using My Creations A-door-ables (Item Z1321) and the Lucky Level 2 paper packet (Item X7134) from Close To My Heart. Each package of A-door-ables come with an assortment of 10 heavy cardstock doors and windows that can be stamped, chalked, painted, papered and more. You can see how much style they add to cards. I chose to use our new Spary Pen (Item Z1380) loaded with a few drops of Tulip reinker (Item Z2266) and a small piece of patterned paper from the Sweetheart collection to add a splash of color to the window shape on this card.

New Stamp of the Month - Sensational Season

2011-03-02T10:37:00.000-07:00

Get a head start on your Easter preparations with this adorable stamp set, Sensational Season (D1454).

You can get this stamp set at a discounted price with purchase:
You spend: $25          $50.00         $75.00        $100.00
Savings:       25% off    50% off       75% off     FREE!
You pay:      $17.21     $11.48         $5.74           FREE!

Contact me or visit my website to order yours.

Spray Pen adds Pizzazz to your artwork...

2011-02-26T11:36:00.000-07:00

One of the new tools in the CTMH 2011 Spring/Summer Idea Book is the Spary Pen (Item Z1380). They come in a package of 3 and retail for $3.95. They're great for adding a sassy splash of color to your artwork. Simply load them up with water and the reinker of your choice. Watch this video to see how easy it is.

And here are a couple samples I've created using my spray pens:

More reasons to love 12" Flip Flaps

2011-02-09T10:52:00.001-07:00

I made this scrapbook layout of a birthday celebration but had too many pictures for the two 12" x 12" pages, however not enough photos for another two page layout. Flip Flaps to the rescue! I attached a Close To My Heart 6" x 12" memory protector (Item Z1325) to the right hand page and extended my creative space. Love it!

Click here to see another post with assembly instructions.

Spring/Summer Idea Book - Blog Hop

2011-02-03T15:09:00.002-07:00

Welcome to our Blog Hop! We will be featuring products currently offered in our New Spring/Summer 2011 Ideabook. If you have come here from Debi's Blog, you are on the right path! The blog hop is a great big circle, so you can start here and work your way all around. If you get lost along the way, you’ll find the complete list of participating consultants here.

We have 11 Close To My Heart Consultants sharing their creations using products from the New Spring/Summer 2011 Idea Book on their blogs. It's easy to "hop" - just click on the link at the end of the post on each blog to move to the next one! Here we go!

I chose to create a few gift items using the Miracle paper collection (Item X7133B). You may recognize this paper from a former National Scrapbooking Day promotion. It's back with even more patterns. The soft Sweet Leaf and Crystal Blue colors in this collection make it perfect for Spring, Easter, Boy or Girl. Pictured above is a Bag in a Box featuring these fun Kraft Borders (Item Z1377). The borders are all pre-cut and self-adhesive making them so easy to use.

Below is a Giant Nugget Box. It has four 3"x 3" cards and envelopes and few chocolate treats. Who can resist? The sentiments on the cards were made with the Miracle stamp set that comes with the Miracle Workshop On The Go kit (Item G1023)

Finally, here is a Flip Flap mini album made with cardstock, patterned paper, and CTMH's 4"x 6" clear Flip Flap Memory Protectors (Item Z4114). This is ready for your 4x6 photos, a great brag book. The "memories" sentiment is from the new Simple Memories stamp set (Item D1472).

Now "Hop" on over to Teri's Blog to see her work! Be sure to visit all the Consultants at their Blogs to get some great crafting ideas! Contact me your CTMH Consultant (or click here) to see how you can get these products!

A Perfect 10 with Studio J

2011-02-03T08:00:00.004-07:00

You may be asking yourself "what is Studio J?" It is design software from Close To My Heart offering you another fast and simple way to celebrate relationships. There's no photos to develop and crop, no paper to cut and coordinate, and no embellishments to purchase - although you can always add them to your Studio J layouts. There's no software to buy, you just upload your photos to create beautiful 12" x 12" two-page layouts in five easy steps. The custom layouts are sent right to your door.

Studio J Member pricing is just $6.50 per layout - that's just $3.25 per page. Other benefits include:

Free hi-res JPG files for every custom-printed layout purchased (share with family and friends on the web)
Special members-only patterns and kits
Free shipping and handling on your monthly order (monthly order not required)

And in February Members get a Perfect 10 - Buy 9 layouts and get one free!

Purchase a 12-month membership for the best value ($99), or get your feet wet with a 3-month membership ($60). You can even give Studio J as a gift (five layouts for $55).

Visit my website to get going on your memories - try it for free.

Here's a few layouts I created with Studio J - I love it!

(This is one of those exclusive members-only kits mentioned.)

IT'S HERE

2011-02-02T09:29:00.000-07:00

You've waited and finally the Close To My Heart Spring/Summer 2011 Idea Book is here! Isn't it beautiful? You're looking at the new paper kit called Sophia, and there's plenty more where that came from. You can view it HERE at my website. Want your very own copy? Contact me to schedule a home gathering and get an idea book and new CTMH products for FREE.

It's A Banner Year

2011-01-22T22:48:00.001-07:00

I made this banner using the new chipboard banner from Close To My Heart. I've been wanting to put the word CREATE on the wall in my scrapbook room using vinyl letters, but I think this is more artsy. What do you think?

Each My Creations Banner includes 8 white chipboard pennants (7" x 6") and 7 jump rings to attach them all together. They're only $5.95. There are so many possibilities for these banners. I'm going to make another banner for Valentine's Day. I'll share pictures when it's completed.

My Tower of Terror

2011-01-15T18:10:00.000-07:00

I recently ordered over 455 photos - a whopping 4" of photos! These are all 2009 events. Now I've got a lot of work to do. I'm so glad that Close To My Heart's 2011 Spring Summer Idea Book releases February 1st and is chock-full of awesome new paper collections and embellishments.

I love this little phrase, it's printed on the delivery box:

How To Use Flip Flaps

2011-01-10T20:02:00.017-07:00

Have you ever felt like 12 inches of paper wasn't enough to tell your story? Make more room for your photos with Flip Flaps. They're "mini" page protectors with an adhesive strip that attaches to the 12x12 scrapbook page protectors to expand your layout. Each package includes 4", 6", and 8" flaps.

1) Here is how I used a 4" and an 8" flap to expand my layout. I started with a 12" x 12" layout and designed it so that it could be cut horizontally 4" from the top, leaving a 4x12 piece and an 8x12 piece. I then inserted them into the corresponding flap. The opening is just above that long white adhesive strip.

2) I am going to attach the flip flaps to an existing 12x12 scrapbook page (I love this Hooligans paper collection from Close To My Heart).

3) Here, I've laid the flaps out the way I want to attach them. Do you see how my 12x12 layout is now 24x12 layout?

4) Remove strip to expose adhesive. Beware, it's really-really sticky!

5) The textured area is the adhesive.

6) I attached the top 4" flap to the back-top of the 12x12 base page at the opening of the page protector. This hides the adhesive strip but still allows another scrapbook layout to be inserted in the other side of the sheet protector.

[back view]

[front view]

7) I have a little trick for attaching the bottom flap. I trimmed the small excess plastic right up close to the textured adhesive. This makes the adhesive the least viewable after its attached.

8) Attach the adhesive right to the front of the bottom part of the 12x12 sheet protector. The visibility is pretty minimal in my opinion.

9) The opening of the 8" flap is right where my fingers are. This way the flap opening is in the fold when the flap is closed in my scrapbook and items cannot fall out. 10) Voila!

[Outside - flaps closed]

[Inside - flaps opened]

Inspirations Blog Hop

2011-01-02T06:00:00.006-07:00

Welcome to our Inspirations Blog Hop! We will be featuring products currently offered in our January Inspiration Brochure. If you have come here from Neely's Blog, you are on the right path! The blog hop is a great big circle, so you can start here and work your way all around. If you get lost along the way, you’ll find the complete list of participating consultants here. We have 12 Close To My Heart Consultants sharing their creations using this month's brochure and other great CTMH products on their blogs. This is simple to do - just click on the link at the end of the post on each blog to move to the next one! Here we go!

This 4-1/2" square card is from Wishes: Fancy Four, and features the all new Wings paper collection (X7135B) and A Game stamp set (A1113). The adorable black button brads and striped ribbon are from the new black Mini Medley Accents collection (Z1393). Inks used are Vinyard Berry and Black.

Now "Hop" on over to Xellina's Blog to see her work! Be sure to visit all the Consultants at their Blogs to get some "Inspiration-al" great crafting ideas and other fun ideas! These products are available at a discount through the month of January! Contact your CTMH Consultant (or click here) to see how you can get these products!

Warm Winter Wishes,

Sheila

Happy 1-1-11 (pretty cool, eh?)

2011-01-01T19:47:00.003-07:00

I hope you all had a safe New Year's Eve. I spent the evening at home with my loved ones and a tissue box. I've had a cold since Tuesday, and it came to a peak on New Year's Eve. Well I'm not one for making resolutions, exept for the same ol' one - lose weight, but that seems to be a resolution I make and break throughout the year. LOL.

Today, my family helped put away all the holiday decorations. I must admit I feel relieved when the "universe" is put back in order. Here is something you may not know about me...I never change my furniture around. If you come to my house in 10 years it will probably look the same as it does now (well, I hope not actually because I need new carpet and family room couches before then). But I like things the way they are. I hate buying a new purse or wallet.

Okay, I don't know how this post got off on new purses, but I sincerely wish you all a blessed new year!

American Girl Christmas II

2010-12-30T14:44:00.003-07:00

This is one happy girl! Last year she asked Santa for an Amerian Girl doll and he brought her a miniature Kit Kitredge doll that was about 4 inches tall. When Hailey saw it she said, "oh, I thought they were bigger."

She's been saving her allowance for months hoping to buy the authentic 18" version for herself. Unfortunately, these little beauties are not cheap. But mom and dad came to the rescue this Christmas. Hailey sleeps with her and takes her to the store and to church (but "Amy" has to remain in the car).

Tis the season to be jolly...

Gratitude Box

2010-11-22T20:29:00.003-07:00

My friend, Claire, shared a holiday tradition her family enjoys this time of year. They each write down things they are thankful for on strips of paper and insert them anonomously into a box. On Thanksgiving Day one person is elected to read each comment aloud as the rest of the participants guess who was the author.

I really like this idea and decided to make a Gratitude Box for our family. I used a plain white 4x6" recipe box from Close To My Heart and decorated it with leftover scraps from the Olivia paper collection. Stamps used include: A Little Thanks (November Stamp of the Month), and Many Thanks. I used Mocha Opaques to create the faux metal accents.

My six-year-old has already submitted a few things he is thankful for.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone.

Studio J Is Making My Life Easier...

2010-09-30T20:43:00.006-07:00

I created several layouts using Studio J while catching up on some TV shows on my TiVo. This is pretty addicting. There are no paper or supplies to set up or put away. No photos to print & crop, hoping for the right size. No adhesive or expensive tools. Just me, my laptop and my remote (for the TV). You could even create while your child is sitting on your lap and not have to worry about them getting coated in glue and ink.

All Studio J layouts are sold as two pages, but I created this layout below with the intention of using each page by itself as a one page layout. I'm one of those crazy moms who does a scrapbook for each kid. I realized that one child didn't have backyard pool photos for 2006 or 2007. Problem solved in a snap with Studio J.

There's nothing to download and no obligation to buy. Please visit my website and have some fun with this exciting product. If you would like a "tour", contact me and we can set it up.

You might also find this link useful in your discovery of Studio J.

Stamp Camp 2010

2010-09-13T10:40:00.008-07:00

I look forward to the String of Hearts team stamp camp each year near Heber Arizona. We stay in the beautiful cabin for two nights and three days and laugh, create, and EAT. It recharges my batteries every year.

We push the furniture out of the way and set up long tables so we craft into the wee hours of the night.

We had a smaller group this year, but we still made memories: Lynette's delicious cantaloupes from her garden, Vicki's divine cinnamon rolls, and Sharryl's creative ideas. I really missed you Lee, and I hope you're feeling well again soon. God bless!

Check out all these snacks!

8 Days to Save!

2010-08-01T20:55:00.008-07:00

2, 4, 6, 8...who do we appreciate - YOU of course. Beginning August 4th Close To My Heart has some fantastic savings for you, available exclusively through my website.

$2 - select My Stickease (reg. $4.95)

$4 - select Level 1 My Reflections paper kits (reg. $9.95)

$6 - select Level 2 My Reflection paper kits (reg. $12.95)

8 DAYS ONLY! August 4 - 11 (while supplies last). Sale starts at 9 a.m. (MDT), 8 Arizona time

If you like to see a preview listing of sale items, email me at EzScrapbooks@cox.net

August Play Group - Cherry O

2010-07-30T00:08:00.003-07:00

I'm excited to play with the Cherry-O collection shown here at our next scrapbooking Play Group. We will create two 2-page layouts using this charming paper and embellishements.
See the next post to find out all the details about how to join my Play Groups.
August Play Group Dates are

August 19th at 7:00 p.m.
August 20th at 9:30 A.M.
August 20th at 7:00 p.m.

RSVP and supply fee due by August 9th.

Join One of My Play Groups

2010-07-30T00:03:00.001-07:00

It's time to join a Play Group

Would you enjoy time out with friends laughing and sharing while creating beautiful scrapbook pages to preserve your memories? Then join one of my Play Groups. We meet once a month for about 2-3 hours in my at-home studio, and together we make four 12x12 scrapbook pages ready for your photos. You'll meet new people, learn tips & techniques, and gradually add some of the best products on the market to your "toy box."

Playgroup Member Benefits:

A fun way to get out of the house.
Keep up with your scrapbooking.
Build relationships & make new friends.
Free products, see details below.
Free Idea Books throughout the year.
15% off one item during your birthday month.
You never have to clean your house to host a party…before or after.

The fine-print:

Play Group requires a 10 month commitment (no meetings in December or July), and a $15-$20 purchase each month for project supplies. The fee varies due to the accessories used in the project and upgrades are available. Participants provide their own adhesive and essential tools such as a paper trimmer, scissors, piercing tool, etc.

Each month a different, predetermined member of the group – the "hostess" – will get to choose at least $25 of select product for FREE. Many of my past hostesses have qualified for $40, $60 and even $80 in free products. Hostesses also have the opportunity to purchase exclusive bundles.

We love it when the hostess brings light refreshments for the group.

If you are unable to attend on your Playgroup date, you may attend another group with advance notice. In order to be fair to all participants you are required to meet the minimum purchase whether or not you attend each month.

Getting Started:

A. Select a day of the week and time you can commit to attend the Playgroup –

(Events will generally be held during the third full week of the month. A detailed schedule will be provided at the first Playgroup)

Thursday Night - 7:00 pm (Aug 19) Friday Morning – 9:30 am (Aug 20) Friday Night – 7:00 pm (Aug 20)

B. Select your scrapbook products for the August project (see images of the products in the attached flyer) –

Option 1: Cherry-O Workshop Kit $35.26 (price includes shipping & tax)

You get Cherry-O Level 2 paper pack, Tulip accents, an exclusive stamp set*, and illustrated instruction guide for scrapbooking AND cards.

Option 2: A la Carte
(price includes shipping & tax)

Cherry-O Level 2 paper pack $15.24

My Accents-Tulip Assortment $5.83

Available Upgrades (price does NOT include shipping & tax – I will calculate your total)

Colonial White Designer Brads $3.95

Chocolate Waxy Flax $3.95

Field Trip Alphabet stamp set $34.95

Ink Pads $5.25 each (colors: Tulip, Chocolate, Sweetleaf)

Corner Rounder $7.95

*Acrylic Blocks needed for stamp set: 1x1-1/2 $4.50, 2x2 $6.50, 1x6-1/2 $6.50

C. Submit full payment to guarantee your seat and to select your hostess month. You may pay with Cash, Check (payable to Sheila Wilkerson) or Debit/Credit with NO FEES!

Please respond no later than August 9^th to allow time for supplies to be ordered.

Contact me: SHEILA WILKERSON (480)380-3031 EzScrapbooks@cox.net

How I Spent My Summer Vacation

2010-07-27T10:33:00.009-07:00

Hey friends, I didn't really fall into a sink-hole or have an E.T. experience. I've been distracted since returning home from Washington D.C. where I attended the CTMH national convention (more about that in a minute). Since returning home I've had a birthday, swim team finals for two children, syncronized swim finals for another child and back-to-school shopping (yes, it's that time again). This will be the first year that all of my children will attend public school all day long. THAT is a mix of emotions; we'll see how the first few days go. I have one more birthday party to plan and then I'm home free (okay, there's always something, but I can see the light).

What can I tell you about D.C.? AMAZING. This was my second national convention with Close To My Heart, an event held just for consultants. I'm so impressed with this company. Not only do I get to be my own boss, but they make it so easy and fun. We were treated to 4 days of first-class instruction and creativity which I can hardly wait to share with you. Stay tuned, the new idea book goes live September 1st.

I extended my trip to D.C. a few days so I could take in the history and sites. I have been there once before when I was a junior in high school as part of the Close-Up program; but there are new things to see an do 26 years later. I was impressed by how large the WWII memorial is, and I don't remember the Korean War memorial being there before. I visited the holocaust museum which is very well done and disturbing, as it should be. It's difficult to take in.

Part of the WWII Memorial

Korean War Memorial

Did you know the only marshmallow Peep store in the U.S. is in National Harbor, MD just outside of the Capital, and walking distance from my hotel? I shared that morsel of trivia with my kids before I left Arizona, and every time I called home they would ask, "Did you go to the Peep store yet? One time I asked my little guy if he was more excited for me to come home or the Peeps to come home. His reply: "I'm excited for YOU to come home with the Peeps." What a charmer. Needless to say they were very glad to rot their teeth with the chocolate covered marshmallow chicks.

Apricot Freezer Jam

2010-06-17T14:46:00.003-07:00

I bought these rather small apricots at the local produce store and decided to make freezer jam with them. It turned out to be so DELICIOUS. My 5-year-old son is a big helper. He took off all the stickers, you know the ones that have the code on it for the cashiers? The jam was so good, I had to make wheat bread to go with it. MMMMMmmmm.

June Crop

2010-06-01T17:17:00.003-07:00

Join me on Friday, June 18th for a scrapbook crop and optional workshop from 1 p.m. til Midnight.

Crop only $5
Crop with Zippidee two-page layout included $10
Buy the Zippidee workshop kit* for $40 and the crop is FREE

Prepayment is required no later than June 8th to secure your seat.

This is the two-page layout. With the $40 workshop kit you'll be able to create this layout and so much more. The kit includes 22 sheets of paper (patterned and cardstock), Star-shaped chipboard Dimensional Elements, Ticket To Ride stamp set, illustrated instruction guide, and Colonial White assorted accents (buttons, brads, etc.).

Today is a Jackpot Day

2010-06-01T16:39:00.005-07:00

Do you think you know which Level 1 Scrapbook kit includes the FREE jackpot item (the two ribbon rounds shown below)? Why risk it -- order one of each! Offer expires at 8:00 a.m. Wednesday, June 2nd. Visit my website to order your Level 1 kits and get these two ribbon rounds free, and shipping is just 99 cents for each of the qualifying items (Wahoo!): ezscrapbooks.myctmh.com

Jackpot June

2010-06-01T16:35:00.002-07:00

Beginning today Close To My Heart is offering fantastic discounts on popular crafting items. Hit the jackpot and win free products OR grab loaded goodie boxes at 50% off or more.
Enjoy two types of deal days in June!
It's a great time to pick up some products you love or ones you've never used before at incredible prices and potentially win some for FREE! You can add to your crafting supplies so you'll always have just the perfect item on hand.

On goodie box days… you can purchase one box filled with popular products at 50% or more off retail value! Each goodie box day will feature different surprise items, so you can score
a wide variety of current and recently retired products.

On jackpot days… 5 products will be offered for sale at discounted prices. One of the 5 products is the mystery jackpot item for that day, but we’re not telling which—exciting, isn’t it! If you happen to order the mystery jackpot item, we’ll reward you with one or more FREE Close To My Heart products, with shipping included on the free items! If you purchase all 5 products, you’re guaranteed to hit the jackpot! There’s no purchase limit—if you order multiple secret jackpot items, we’ll send you the same number of free items.
These special offers include discounted shipping/handling (just 99 cents per item) and are only available onmy website. Check back every day for the latest offer.

* Offer valid June 1–July 1 at 8:00 am (MDT), on MyCTMH websites only. New deals are posted each day at 9:00 am (MDT).
To be eligible for discounted prices, your order must contain only Jackpot June items. Visit facebook.com/closetomyheart or closetomyheart.com to see what the mystery Jackpot item was for the previous day. Offers are while supplies last.

100% Success Rate

2010-05-12T16:03:00.000-07:00

Today, the last of our pupae became a Painted Lady butterfly. We have 10 in all. Now what the heck do we do? I've read that they reporduce within 2 days. It would be fun to continue the life cycle, but I've never considered myself a caterpillar/butterfly breeder. Also, the food plant the caterpillars need to survive may be a little hard to come by in the desert.

Easter

2010-05-11T15:42:00.001-07:00

I made this scrapbook layout in less than an hour using Studio J. There were no photos to print or crop, just a few mouse clicks and voila! I can hardly believe I have a 2010 event ready for a photo album. You can play with Studio J by clicking on the link in my website: ezscrapbooks.myctmh.com By the way, this paper kit is called Hippity Hop and it's only available through Studio J. Check it out.

The Butterfly Chronicles

2010-05-03T09:32:00.000-07:00

Uncle Trevor gave our family a butterfly kit for Christmas. I finally got around to ordering the little critters a couple of weeks ago. In my defense, I didn't want to order the bugs when it was too cold, but I almost waited too long -- the Arizona heat is knocking on our door. Here are my happy scientists inspecting our new caterpillars that arrived via USPS on April 28th.

This was one of the bigger caterpillars. There are about 10 total in the two containers.

Do you see that webb-stuff in there? The carmel-colored stuff on the bottom is there food and droppings (aka frass).

They're growing...We hope to see chrysalides real soon.

Cherries in the Summertime

2010-05-02T22:46:00.004-07:00

There are some pretty incredible products inside the pages of our new Summer Idea Book. Here's just a sampling. Click here to see the entire new book on line.

Studio J is HERE!

2010-04-26T23:08:00.006-07:00

Last July Close To My Heart unveiled plans to launch Studio J, Online Design Scrapbooking software - you may be more familiar with the term digital scrapbooking. But of course, this is digi scrappin' the Close To My Heart way. After countless hours of nerdy technical software programming (Horns and Trumpets please) Studio J is now available on my website ready for you to experience it. You can create designer scrapbook pages in minutes ready to be custom printed for your cherished album.

It is absolutely free to play, so take a peek today on my website.

These layouts were all created with Studio J. There's no photos to print and crop, no adhesive necessary! All you need is a computer, internet access and digital photos.

With Studio J, I was able to add text right over my photos.

I didn't have to crop out the beautiful scenery in these photos in order to fit them to the page.

There were people on the beach who ended up in our photos, but they're cropped out now.

I even have access to My Stickease coordinating embellishments (title & flowers) in Studio J. The ribbon, the brads, the vellum... all part of the Studio J experience.

This Halloween themed paper kit is exclusive to Studio J.

And I didn't have to cut out all of these circles, or crop tiny photos.

Irresistible

2010-04-26T20:16:00.006-07:00

I love these "irresistible" chipboard accents included in the Miracle Kit. See how they start out all white with a shiny pattern on them? I used a sponge to apply ink from my stamp pad to the chipboard. The shiny pattern resists the ink and shows up as white against the color of my choice. It's a miracle. These chipboard designs are only found in the Miracle Kit available through May 31st, while supplies last. The list price is $19.95, but there are ways to get your kit for $10, $5, even free. See the post on April 16th below for more details.

Launch Party!

2010-04-24T22:23:00.001-07:00

No, there isn't anything wrong with your eyes. I purposely distorted this photo of my new Summer products from Close To My Heart. You can see them clearly at my Launch Party on Thursday, April 29th. Send me a message with your email addy and I'll send you an invitation with all the details.

Miracle Cards - As Promised

2010-04-24T00:35:00.003-07:00

I told you this Miracle Kit was not to be shunned by cardmakers. Aren't these gorgeous! I'd like to give a big shout out to Rebecca Lehman who created the original cards using patterns from our How-To books, which I totally lifted with her permission. [Another perk of being a Close To My Heart consultant is sharing in all this creativity. So many are extremely generous with their talent.] Read the previous post to find out how to get your very own Miracle Kit, available through May 31st while supplies last.

Wait a minute...did you notice that unusual card on the left? It's a sneak peek of what's to come on May 1st. See below:

A Miracle Awaits You!

2010-04-16T11:49:00.012-07:00

You'll love this charming Miracle kit designed exclusively for National Scrapbook Month in May. This beautiful kit featuring spring-inspired colors and floral patterns is miraculously easy to assemble with no stamping required. The brochure will guide you through easily creating two beautiful two-page layouts. [And if you're not a scrapbooker (you could be with kits this easy), check back soon to see some pretty miraculous cards made with this kit.]
The featured colors are Bamboo, Colonial White, Crystal Blue, Olive and Sweet Leaf. But you custom color the embossed chipboard elements to coordinate with YOUR photos.

Here's what is included:

5 sheets 12"x 12" Colonial White Cardstock
1 sheet 12"x 12" Bamboo Cardstock
1 12"x 12" Floral B&T Duos printed paper
1 12"x 12" Stripe B&T Duos printed paper
1 Crystal Blue B&T Duos Die Cut
1 Sweet Leaf B&T Duos Die Cut
1 - 6" x 12" My Stickease adhesive assortment
1 6" x 9" Irresistibles Chipboards Die-Cuts
1 package of Mini- Medley Accents Colonial White Collection
12" Colonial White Waxy Flax
3 - 4" x 6" Memory Protectors Flip Flaps
2 sponge wedges
1 Color brochure with instructions

Click here to see more images.

There are several ways to get this fashionable Miracle kit at a great discount or even FREE*:

• Purchase the kit outright for $19.95*

• Place a minimum order of $40, and purchase the kit for only $10*

• Place a minimum order of $60, and purchase the kit for only $5*

• Sign up as a new Consultant between May 1–31 and receive a kit FREE!

• Host a Home Gathering between April 15–May 31 with minimum sales of $300 and receive a kit FREE!

Amaze yourself and your friends during National Scrapbooking Month in May with gorgeous layouts you create using our Miracle Kit.

*Tax and shipping apply. Offer available through May 31, 2010, while supplies last.

Contact me or visit my website to order your kit today.

Motorcycle Mama

2010-04-10T17:04:00.004-07:00

Yep, that's me on the back of a Honda 750 with my husband, Clark. We planned to go to lunch, and a matinee today and I suggested we take the bike. Once I got on and we rounded the corner I questioned my sanity. I wasn't that fond of my husband driving a motorcycle, and now I was riding on the back of the same one he was driving.

I started thinking crazy thoughts like what if he can't turn with my added weight on the back, what if he can't stop fast enough. Who will take care of the children we left at home. However, after a short time, Clark proved himself to be very capable of handing the bike with an extra passenger. But then my paranoid brain began to conjure up images of other cars crashing into us, or suddenly stopping in front of us. I had to shoo those thoughts away quickly before freaking out and needing serious medical treatment.

We headed down the long on-ramp of the US60 and I felt my grip tighten around Clark's waist (I'm surprised he could still breath) and my legs squeezed tight, as if that would save me. I think they call that the death grip. I was really scared. It was like getting on a rollercoaster - exciting and exhilirating but frightening all at the same time. As time went by I began to relax a bit more and enjoy the ride.

I'm sorry I doubted you honey. Stay safe!

More Veranda Artwork

2010-04-08T00:58:00.005-07:00

I've been playing around with scraps of paper from my Veranda Level 2 paper kit. You may recognize this layout from the CTMH 2010 Spring Idea Book (see page 12). I was able to use the same pattern from our Reflections how-to book and give it a new look with various embellishments and two photos rather than one. I just love the Posterboard Alphabet stamp set, which I used to make the title "Makenna." This alphabet is unique because it's an outline rather than a solid, so patterned paper shows through. All products used are Close To My Heart.

Not only did I use up scraps of paper, but also leftover My Stickease (stickers). The humming bird and tulip are stickers designed especially for the Veranda collection. [I get a kick out of kids with missing teeth.]

The rest of the artwork is various cards I made using scraps of papers, stickers and stamp sets. All of the patterns come from Wishes and Originals how-to card books.

Get It While You Can

2010-04-05T15:53:00.009-07:00

Close To My Heart offers a new Idea Book and new products three times a year. I feel like it's Christmas every January, May and September 1st! Four new paper packs are launched in each Idea Book, and four stunning Workshop kits that include a Level 2 paper pack (22 sheets of coordinating paper), a matching embellishment like brads, buttons, ribbons, etc., and an exclusive My Acrylix clear stamp set designed especially for the paper pack...all this plus an illustrated, step-by-step instruction guide for just $29.95. You can easily make 4 - 6 two-page scrapbook layouts, and/or many cards from each workshop kit.

These kits are only available for the four months that each Idea Book is "live." That means as of May 1st, the Spring workshop kits shown below with their instructions and exclusive stamp sets will no longer be available for purchase at this special price. [Paper and embellishments are available throughout the year.] So if you see anything you like below, contact me and I'll make sure you get yours before they're no longer available.

**Get your kit free when you and at least five paying friends participate in an instruction-lead workshop by me. This is a fun girls' night out. Contact me for availability. Orders must be placed by April 30, 2010.**

Click on the titles to see more scrapbook layouts and cards.

Veranda:

Topstitch:

Caboodle:

You Rock:

2010-04-02T09:32:00.001-07:00

I decided to make this cute little 'match book' card using the April stamp of the month, Flower Pot.
This is called a match book because the upper 3/4 of the card (stripes) tucks under the lower 1/4 of the card (green) like a book of matches. The flower pot is secured to the striped part of the card with 3D foam squares and holds the card shut. Pretty clever, huh? You can see more artwork featuring the Flower Pot stamp set on my website.

Grateful Hearts

2010-04-01T21:16:00.002-07:00

I spend far too much time viewing blogs. I have favorites that inspire me creatively and spiritually. I often check in with Close To My Heart founder, Jeanette Lynton. Today she shared a touching email she received from Operation Smile in response to the outpouring of support through the CTMH Hearts for Haiti campaign (you remember, the textured cardstock). It's nice to see the results. Thank you the part you played in changing someone's life. Visit Jeanette's blog to read more: http://www.jeanettelynton.com/2010/03/day-of-joy.html

Last Chance for Topstitch Workshop

2010-03-17T10:54:00.003-07:00

Thursday, March 18th is the last day to purchase your Topstitch Workshop kit. You won't want to miss out on this adorable gift set. See my post of Monday, March 8th for more details.

Email me at EzScrapbooks@cox.net if you are planning to attend.

Dare To Dream

2010-03-15T10:26:00.006-07:00

Whether you're looking for a way to make additional income or a way to save money on your supplies, this is a fantastic time to join Close To My Heart. For the low price of $99 you will receive a start up kit loaded with fabulous CTMH products valued at more than $300! And when you sign up this month, you'll also receive the next four exclusive Stamps of the Month, which won't be available to customers until May, June, July & August. That's four additional stamp sets valued at $91.80 for FREE! There are bonus packs you can choose to add on as well for even greater savings on more CTMH products.

Signing up is easy. Click here to complete your enrollment form.

If you sign up this month, I'll send you a My Acrylix organizer to store your new stamp set in. It's my gift to you.

If you have questions about becoming a Close To My Heart consultant, post them here and I'll answer them as quickly as possible.

Caboodle Cube

2010-03-15T09:47:00.005-07:00

I made this photo cube for a baby shower gift. It was pretty quick and easy. The cube is made of white chipboard and comes flat with scored lines for easy assembly. You can tie the corner holes together like I did or use Liquid Glass to adhere. Each side of the cube is 5".

Items used:
* Scraps from my Caboodle Level 2 paper kit (X7121B)
* My Creations Cube (Z152)
* Outdoor Denim accents (Z1277)
* White Hemp (Z281)
* Vanilla Cream Exclusive Inks stamp pad (Z2169)
* Just For Boys stamp set (C1338)
* Outdoor Denim Exclusive Inks stamp pad (Z2140)
* Crystal Blue Exclusive Inks stamp pad (Z2117)

Creating the Perfect Title

2010-03-10T14:22:00.007-07:00

Stickers are convenient, but what happens when all the common letters are used? You're left with a sheet of Q, X and Z, among others. I always have the letters I need when using my Close To My Heart alphabet stamp sets. There are many fonts and sizes to choose from. And they're easy to use as well.

I use the lines on my Versamat to line up the letters.

Since I need two h's I can leave a space for the first one and stamp the image later. Sure, I could leave off the last h, but I find it easier to line up the missing letter between two existing letters.

The next step is to lift the letters of the Versamat using my acrylic block. By pressing the block down on the letters, they cling to the block and lift up in alignment. Now they're ready to ink and stamp.

Stamp the ink images on your project.

Next, add the missing h.

I cleaned the stamps and moved the h from the large acrylic block to a block all by itself. Then I inked the h and situated it between the C and E in Cherish.

Viola! Perfectly straight titles every time.

Special thanks to my friend Melissa Robinson for inspiring this scrapbook layout.

Topstitch Workshop

2010-03-08T22:23:00.004-07:00

Aren't these cards adorable? I made them using the March stamp of the month "A Little Everything" and Topstitch paper from Close To My Heart. The darling box and matching bow are the perfect size to hold these cards & envelopes. A big thanks goes out to fellow CTMH consultant, Chris Green, for her amazing designs.

You can make these too at my house on Saturday, March 27th from 1-5 p.m. You'll also make a mini album using a 6" x 6" Memory Showcase Album, a unique accordion-fold album from CTMH. All this for just $25. These make fabulous gifts perfect for Moms or Mom-to-be, or keep it for yourself. Seating is limited, so contact me right away to register: Ezscrapbooks@cox.net. Pre-payment is required by March 18th.

The workshop includes:

1 Topstitch level 2 paper pack
4 card bases & envelopes
6 Just Blooms
Assorted Chocolate Ribbon
Chocolate Soft Set Eyelets
6x6 Memory Showcase Album

You'll need to provide your own adhesive and scissors. We will also use a piercing tool, bone folder, glue dots, and a craft sponge for ink distressing.

Additional items for consideration:

D1408 A Little Something Stamp set $22.95*
D1402 Togetherness Stamp set $22.95
Y1003 2x2 Acrylic Block $6.50
Y1005 1x6½ Acrylic Block $6.50
Z2111 Chocolate Ink Pad $5.25
* Also available at a discount, ask me how.
(shipping and tax apply)

Scrapbooking, Texas-Syle

2010-03-01T20:07:00.005-07:00

Last weekend I had the opportunity to join a few friends (and meet some new ones) in Gainsville, Texas for a scrapbooking marathon. I went through 3 packages of Tombow adhesive in three days. We stayed at the Lone Oak Ranch located near the Oklahoma border. Since I had to fly into Dallas, I was limited in the amount of scrapbooking paper and embellishments I could stuff into my suitcase. But you will be amazed by the goodies these ladies hauled to the Ranch. It was such a fun, relaxing, productive trip. I hope to do it again someday.

There are 34 of us settled in here. We each had our own 6 ' table for 48 hours of creative space.

My friend, Joy M. Look at how organized she is. I was able to dip into Joy's scrap bag when I needed just a small amount of Twilight or Sweet Leaf cardstock. Thanks, Joy!

This is an outside shot of our creative space. The 'ballroom' was surrounded by 10 lodgings, so it was very convenient to go to bed after scrapbooking until 3 a.m. Yes, you read that right. Some of us stayed up until the wee hours of the morning taking full advantage of our creative time away from the distractions of home.

I've seen a lot of mounted game: deer, elk, moose, even a 'jackalope'*, but I've never seen a bull until now! This lovely wall decor' adorned the dining hall. (*if you haven't heard of a jackalope, google it.)

And did I mention the divine dinner rolls?! Mmmmm.

A Little Everything

2010-03-01T12:41:00.006-07:00

It's a new month which means a new Stamp of The Month from Close To My Heart. It's called A Little Everything (D1408), and it has a little everything in the way of sentiments - perfect for crafting cards and embellishing scrapbook layouts. This stamp set is available through March 31st for $22.95, or you may receive it at a discount - even free - when you purchase CTMH products.

Scrapbook Challenge

2010-02-19T08:07:00.002-07:00

Join my 2010 scrapbook challenge and you could save big on two CTMH products of your choice while sharing your stories through the art of scrapbooking.

What’s been on your CTMH wishlist for a while? Is it the stamp pad organizer? Or maybe it’s the rolling carryall. How would you like to get both of these products at 25% off retail price? (That’s a savings of nearly $50!)

Here’s how it works:

Complete 50, 12” x 12” scrapbook pages in 10 months (Feb. thru Nov. 2010). That’s an average of five per month.
Artwork must be created using mostly CTMH products. Stamping is highly encouraged. Photos and journaling are required.
Participants can attend a free Catch Up Crop Day to be held May 15th and October 23rd.
You will receive 25%-off the regular retail price of any one CTMH product when you have completed 25 pages by June 30th and 25 pages by December 1st. You must redeem your prize within 30 days.
You can show me your pages as you complete them or show them to me all at once. But to encourage you to keep your pace, if you show me five completed pages by the 10th day of each month, you will be entered into a drawing for free stuff which may include sheet protectors, paper, or embellishments.
If you don’t live locally, you can still participate via email. Just email me photos of your completed pages.
Registration is free. Contact me by February 20, 2010 to join the fun.

Get Winter Cozy Textured Cardstock TODAY!

2010-02-12T08:39:00.005-07:00

Close To My Heart consultants and customers are some of the biggest-hearted people around, and there's been an incredible outpouring of support for the Hearts for Haiti campaign. You have shown your support for Haiti in a big way. As a result of your generosity, we are unexpectedly running low on complete sets of the Winter Cozy textured cardstock.

The Winter Cozy textured cardstock will be available for purchase through Friday, February 12, 2010 until midnight (MT) with one slight difference. Any orders placed will not contain the Blush nor the Crystal Blue textured cardstock. Instead, it will contain four sheets of non-textured Blush cardstock and four sheets of non-textured Crystal Blue cardstock. And as an extra bonus we have included four sheets of White Daisy textured cardstock with this pack bringing the total sheets of cardstock to 28—a great deal! After Friday at midnight, the Winter Cozy textured cardstock will unavailable for the remainder of the campaign and will be unavailable until further notice. All other combo packs are still in stock.

Call me or email me today with your order. You may also order directly from my website 24/7 and have your products shipped right to your door.

Childrens' Valentine's

2010-02-10T23:23:00.003-07:00

I made these cute Valentine's cards for my children to hand out in their classes. I used 3" x 3" cardstock squares and dressed them up with retired printed paper and stamped images from "Life's A Jungle" (D1285).

And this year, once again, I'll have my kids use their custom-made personalized name stamps to "sign" their name. It's a drag to sign your name 30 times, especially when you have seven letters in your first name. :-)

Topstitch Card

2010-02-05T02:54:00.002-07:00

This simple card took about 10 minutes to assemble using my Topstitch workshop kit from Close To My Heart. The kit includes oodles of paper, a coordinating My Acrylix clear stamp set, embellishments and instructions. You could easily make six to eight scrapbook pages and still have scraps for skads of cards. Gotta love that!

Click here to see more.

Valentine Tents

2010-02-04T03:08:00.005-07:00

No, we're not talking camping...it's not that romantic, believe me. I tried it for my anniversary last year. We saw a skunk not more than 10 feet from us and wound up sleeping in the back of our mini van. I'm already scouting B&Bs for next time.

Back to these 'tents'...they are the perfect size for Hershey's Nuggets chocolate candies. You can get 12 tents out of one sheet of 12" x 12" cardstock. The hardest part is to not eat all the chocolate. *smile*

All products are Close To My Heart.

Stamp images are from Soul Mates (D1254).

Free Cardstock for You - Relief for Haiti

2010-02-04T00:30:00.006-07:00

Wow, wow, wow! This is such a great deal for such a fabulous cause. Throughout February, purchase a 12" x 12" textured cardstock combo pack and you’ll get one of your choice FREE— and with every offer purchased, Close To My Heart will donate $2 to Operation Smile’s Haiti relief efforts. That means for only $14.95, you get two packs (48 sheets) of our high-quality textured cardstock and you help this urgent, important cause.

I love our textured cardstock and can't wait to stock up. It is two toned, meaning one side is 100% of the color and the other side is a percentage of the color. Additionally, each side has a different level of texture. Such versatility!

All of our cardstock has a white core which shows through when sanding and tearing. You can see the many different looks of textured cardstock in this scrapbook page:

The tan cardstock was sanded so the white core shows through; and the white cardstock below the green was swiped with a chocolate ink pad. Notice how the color rests on the texture.

Textured cardstock also adds a unique element to stamped images.

Don't miss out on this opportunity. Click here to order from my website. Once you're there scroll down to Textured Cardstock, select the color palette you want, and add it to the cart. There are several to choose from (just click these links to see them): Basic Collection (X5747), Spring Harmony (X5681), Summer Celebration (X5745), Autumn Harvest (X5669), Winter Cozy. You'll be asked to select your free combo pack(s) after you click "checkout now". There's no limit and all purchases qualify for the stamp of the month discount.

Offer valid February 1–28, 2010. Tax and shipping/handling charges apply. Donations to Haiti will be made by Close To My Heart on your behalf to Operation Smile’s relief efforts. To learn more about their efforts visit www.operationsmile.org/haiti.

Piece of Cake - February Stamp of the Month

2010-01-31T22:30:00.005-07:00

It's a new month and that means a new stamp set from Close To My Heart. This set is called Piece of Cake (Item D1407) and it is loaded with whimsical images of cakes and greetings for the perfect card or scrapbook layout. This set is available through February 28th for $22.95 or at a discount with your qualifying purchase.

Have Some Rain...

2010-01-21T12:47:00.004-07:00

This has been one wet week for us Desert Rats. This is our third storm in four days. I'm sure we need the rain, but all at once? Okay, we'll take it. Here are some pics of my backyard. Everything is so saturated, the water is beginning to form puddles and lakes. It's a good day to stay inside and scrapbook.

Spring Creations

2010-01-19T20:45:00.005-07:00

I made these cards using Close To My Heart products featured in the Spring 2010 Idea Book. The designs are all from fellow consultant, Denise Anderson who shared her talent with me.

Let me know what your favorite is.

Veranda paper collection:

Caboodle paper collection:

You Rock paper collection:

Top Stitch paper collection:

Creative Basic - Veranda (great for duplicating projects):

Rockin' New Years Greetings

2010-01-13T08:21:00.002-07:00

These cards were made using the You Rock paper pack. It's new this spring from Close To My Heart.

One creative tip I like to use is to cut images from patterned paper to use as embellishments. The stars in the front card are cut from the same patterned paper you see in the background of the card. It's a great way to tie everything together.

Items used:

X7122B You Rock level 2 paper pack

D1268 January Word Puzzle stamp set (retired)

G1006 Just Be You stamp set (sold exclusively with the You Rock Workshop-On-The-Go kit*)

Z1277 Outdoor Denim mini medley accents

1446 Outdoor Denim ink pad

Z1263 Bitty Sparkles

* the Workshop-On-The-Go kit includes a complete level 2 paper packet (22 sheets of coordinating paper), coordinating stamp set, embellishments, and color brochure complete with cutting guide and assembly instructions.

White Chocolate Covered Popcorn

2010-01-11T19:14:00.001-07:00

Sounds delicious, doesn't it? This tasty treat is so simple to make. [Thank you to Kim Wiltse for the recipe.] Pop three bags of microwave popcorn. Pour all three bags into a large brown paper sack (like the kind you get at the grocery store). Melt two 12 oz. packages of white chocolate in the microwave. Be careful not to overdue it - white chocolate tends to burn faster than semi-sweet chocolate. Add the melted chocolate to the popped popcorn in the paper bag. Fold down the top of the bag and shake it up to coat all the popcorn. I gave mine a couple of stirs with a large spoon as well. Pour the contents out onto a cookie sheet or waxed paper to cool. Store what you don't eat right away in an airtight container.

Now you know what my new year's resolution is. LOL

The Wilkerson Wild Fire...

2010-01-06T23:51:00.004-07:00

Aka pink-eye. Wowzers - this stuff is contageous! It spreads like fireworks and dry brush on a hot summer day. We spent the Christmas holidays with our extended family and later found out some of them had pink eye. Now four out of seven of us have had it under this roof. And my poor husband had it in one eye, recovered for a couple of days and now has it in the other eye. I've used disinfecting wipes on the phones, remotes, wii-motes, and door handles. There has to be an end in sight, right?

These things make us appreciate our good health when it is restored.

Why Put Off Today What You Can Do Tomorrow?

2010-01-04T12:48:00.003-07:00

I don't scrapbook events in chronological order, but I do like to put the completed layouts in order in the albums. So when I complete a layout I put it in a big box until I can organize them all by date and put them in the books. Here I am sorting three years of scrapbook layouts for five children. I don't recommend sitting on the floor for half a day at my age, but I needed the space to spread out. It feels really good to have the layouts organized and stored in albums. The biggest payoff is sharing them with my kids. They love looking back at birthdays, holidays, vacations and just-because days.

Now that the box is empty, I see I have some gaps to fill in those books. Thank goodness Studio J is coming...stay tuned.

We {heart} Santa

2009-12-03T17:18:00.003-07:00

Last year we had a special visitor make a house call. I wonder if we're on the right list this year. I love Christmas through a child's eyes.

Crafting Clearance Sale

2009-12-02T13:45:00.003-07:00

I love a good sale, and this one is gooood. If you're a scrapbooker, stamper, and/or paper crafter you are going to want to check this out. Close To My Heart is making way for new products and it's time to say goodbye to some old favorites. You can snag My Acrylix clear stamps for as little at $2. There are paper packs (22 sheets of coordinating printed paper & cardstock) for $5. Wowie!

Why are you still on this blog? Go to my website and start shopping! http://ezscrapbooks.myctmh.com - online shopping.

Happy bargain hunting,

Sheila