Christmas decoration idea

Crochet Snowflakes Coasters

 

Difficulty Level: Entry level with some crochet and assembly experiences
Finished size: approx. 4″ (D)
Make: 6 coasters

Materials & Tools:
1. DMC Pearl Cotton Ball size 8, 2, White, double strand
2. Crochet Hook, 1.75mm
3. Synthetic Felt, 2mm thickness, Red, 12″ x 8″
4. 4″ Hexagon template, to draw your own template with the variable of R=2″, or, you can use 4″ circles as an alternative
5. Quick dry all purpose adhesive (clear color), 6. Scissors
7. Spray bottle or fabric stiffener

Abbreviations:
ch = chain
sc = single crochet
dc = double crochet
slst = slip stitch
st(s) = stitch(es)
tog = together
prev = previous
fo = fasten off

Snowflakes Pattern (in American terms)
Use double strand of DMC Pearl Cotton, size 8, in white. Make a Slip Knot to begin.
Rnd 1:
ch 2 (this first ch is considered as base ring of the snowflakes, the second ch is the beginning st of rnd 1), *12 sc in the first ch, slst to the ch stitch at the beginning of the round.
Rnd 2:
ch3, dc in next stitch, ch5, *skip 1 st, 2dc on next st, ch5, repeat *5 times. slst to the 3rd ch at the beginning of the rnd.
Rnd 3:
ch 1, *ch9, sc in second ch from hook, sc in next 2 sts, sc next 2 sts tog, ch6  slst in 4th ch from hook, ch7 slst in the prev slst st, ch3 slst in the prev slst st, slst in next 2 sts, ch5, sc in second ch from hook, sc in next 2 sts, 2 sc in next st, sc in next 3 sts, skip 1 ch sts and 1 dc st of prev rnd, sc in next dc sts,, 3 sc in the 5-ch space of prev rnd, ch3 slst to the loop of last sc, ch7 slst in the prev slst st, ch3 slst in the prev slst st, 3 sc in the 5-ch space of prev rnd, sc in dc st of prev rnd, repeat * 6 times, slst to the first ch at the beginning of the rnd. fo, hide thread ends

Dampen the crochet snowflakes by spraying some water on it or brushing a thin layer of fabric stiffener, adjust the shape and pin it down to an ironing board, leave it dry to block the shape.
Note: Use Martha Stewart Water Resistant Fabric Stiffener if you wish to seal the white snowflakes to protect it from getting stained.

Assembly
Cut hexagon felt, glue the crochet snowflakes on it by using clear quick dry all purpose adhesive. Press them with heavy books for at least 10 minutes

For further information go to http://www.craftpassion.com/2013/11/crochet-snowflakes-coasters.html/2. It will give you the step by step instructions on how to complete this project too. Enjoy!

Paper use ideas

5 Exciting Ways To Give Your Scrapbook Paper A NEW Look!

One of  the fun things about scrapbooking is the freedom to try new ideas and discovering techniques that add special appeal to your scrapbook layouts.
One of the latest scrapbook trends is to create a bit of dimension to the paper used for a layout.
Here are five ways to bring the paper on your layout to life.  Ready to have some fun?

1.  Create pockets and shutters.

If you’re designing a scrapbook layout that won’t be kept in plastic, or a mini scrapbook, then the use of pockets and shutters are a clever way to bring your layout to life.  A pocket can be made out of cardstock and used to hold a photo, a journal note, or perhaps a special token from a trip.
Build the pocket into the design of your layout, rather than just filling up an empty space.  For instance, if you’re doing a Halloween layout, the pocket could look as though it’s a trick-or-treat bag.  For a Christmas layout, design your pockets to look like Christmas packages.
Shutters are a cute way to add an element of surprise to your layout.  Just like shutters on a window can open and close, create shutters to be used with a couple of your photos.  Viewers will have fun peaking in to see the photos.

2.  Add fun with pinwheels.

Adding paper pinwheels to your layout will give a playful feel to the overall look.  Pinwheels are constructed from  curled paper with a tack through the center.  They should be made from scrapbook paper that will complement the colors in the layout.  For a flatter appearance, use two colors of paper and make a quilted pinwheel.
Instead of pinwheels, experiment with other shapes, such as stars, fish, flowers, or even squares.  Adhere the shapes to your layout with foam tape for added dimension  Use some of your shapes to overlap the mat of a photo or journal block.  This will help the shapes to pop out, while drawing attention to the photo or journaling.

3.  Be creative with weaving.

Weaving can add a special effect to your layout and can be done in a variety of ways.  When weaving is done effectively, it enhances the look of a layout without drawing all of the attention onto the weaving.  Here are a few examples:

• Weave paper to create a border to be used at the top and bottom of the page.  Incorporate the colors that you’re using for the photo mats.
• Use different shades of blue and a wavy cut to create ripples in water.
• Weave a background.  Use two 12″ sheets of scrapbook paper.  Cut one sheet into 1 cm. strips and weave the strips into the other sheet.  Add a paper border to the top and bottom to cover up any unevenness.
• Make corner mounts for a layout with a zigzag border.
• Use weaving as the bottom layer for displaying a photo.
• Weave flower petals.  After weaving two sheets of paper.  Use a petal template and trace petals onto the weaving.  Use your sewing machine and sew a border just inside of the tracing.  This will help the petals to keep their shape once you cut the petals out.

4.  Use crinkle paper.

If you’re press for time, or simply want to have a “crinkle” appearance to your paper, you can purchase small rolls of adhesive crinkle paper.  Each roll has a crinkle look to it which adds a fun dimension to a layout.  You can also purchase matching twine, cord and paper tape.
Whether you use the paper as a full background, or for a portion of your layout, it’s easy to adhere and will look great.
Another quick idea is to use wallpaper.  Do you have leftover wallpaper from a project?  Does your local wallpaper store give out free samples?  Most wallpaper has texture which when used in a scrapbook layout, will bring life to your photos and journaling.

5.  Add a torn look.

Instead of using a background that fills the entire page, choose two different backgrounds.
For example, if you’re doing a layout of a day at the beach, use a sandy looking background for part of the page and a water pattern background for the other portion.  Cut and adhere your sandy background first.  Then rip the blue paper to give the effect that the water is washing up onto the sand.
The torn look is also a fun way to add borders to a layout or as the writing section of journal blocks.
These five ideas are just a small sample of the many techniques that can be used to bring the paper on your layout to life.  The important thing to remember is just to have fun and try different ideas.  Before you know it, your layouts will be spectacular works of art!

Matting photos

5 New Ways To Matte A Photo On Your Scrapbook Pages

Want to take your scrapbook layouts to a whole new level?  Just by adding some special attention to your photo mats, you can add an inspiring element to your layouts.

1.  Dimensional matting.

Quite often we make photo mats out of cardstock and call it good enough.  However, by adding just one or two embellishments, you can create exquisite photo mats.  For example:

• Layer mats.  When you look at a framed photo, often the photo is matted with a neutral border and then the frame is in a dark color.  Use the same concept for your scrapbook photos.  Use a light color cardstock to mat a photo and then a darker color of cardstock to create an outside border.
• Twine or thin ribbon.  Once you mat a photo with cardstock, add a borer to the inside and outside edge of the cardstock with twine or ribbon.  This adds a fun touch to your photos.
• Embellishments.  Add decorative tacks to the corners of your mats, overlap part of a mat with a silk flower, randomly glue sequins or buttons onto a mat…when it comes to embellishing your photo mats, the sky’s the limit!
• Photo corners.  Often photo corners are used in place of a mat.  However, you can mat a photo and then place two photo corners inside two diagonal corners of the mat.  This will add depth to your photo.

2.  Stitching matting.

Incorporating stitching in scrapbooking layouts is very trendy!  Whether you stitch by hand or machine, create a fun stitch on strips of cardstock to create beautiful photo mats.
If stitching by hand, create a design on the strips, such as flowers, polka dots or a person’s name.

3.  Travel themed matting.

One of the most popular scrapbooking themes is vacation.  To add a special touch to your traveling photos, make photo mats that have a travel theme.
Here are some ideas:

• Map.  Use an actual map to create a border for your photos.  Make a quarter inch or half inch mat for each photo out of the map.  If you have a souvenir type map, cut out flaps for two or three photos of places on the map that you visited.  Adhere photos to the background and then adhere the map onto the page.  As you open each flap, it will reveal a photo.
• Postage stamps.  Whether you use foreign stamps from an overseas trip or a variety of regular stamps, glue stamps onto a cardstock mat.  Overlap stamps to fill the entire space and cover with Mod Podge if you desire.
• Post cards.  Because post cards are already made out of heavy paper, they make excellent mats.  Carefully cut out a portion of the postcard and tape your photo underneath.  You don’t necessarily have to use the center of the postcard.  For example, if the left side of the postcard contains the name of a village that you visited, then use the right side to frame your photo.
• Envelopes.  Many pre-stamped envelopes come with a striped trim.  The United States has white envelopes with a red, white and blue trim.  Use the trims of the envelopes to create photo mats.

4.  Textured matting.

Look around your home for materials that have an interesting feel to them and use them for photo mats.
For example:

• Fabric.  Use up your fabric scraps by turning them into photo mats.  For added fun, use a pattern fabric for the top and bottom of a mat, and a solid fabric for the left and right side of the mat.
• Cork.  Cork is lightweight and provides fun texture to a scrapbook layout.  Use decorative tacks to give the appearance of tacking the photo onto the mat.
• Foil.  Love the look of metallic?  Foil is a great way to draw attention to your photos.  Wrap the foil around a cardstock mat.
• Embossed paper.  Whether it’s paper found in one of the scrapbooking supply aisles, or a wallpaper sample, embossed paper will add elegance to your photos.  Use a quarter or half inch thickness.

5.  Misc. theme matting.

As you get ready to mat a photo, study it and decide if there’s a theme that you can pull from the photo.  Use that theme to create a photo mat.
Here are some examples:

• Music.  Have a photo of your son playing the trumpet?  Make a photo mat out of old sheet music or scrapbook paper that has musical notes.
• Halloween.  Save those candy bar wrappers!  Make a hodge podge photo mat from different candy wrappers.
• Baby shower.  Recycle the gift wrapping paper.  Make photo mats out of plain cardstock.  Cover the mats with wrapping paper.

Let your photo mats make a statement!  The next time you’re working on a scrapbook, incorporate these five ideas.  People will be “ouuuing” and “ahhhing” over your photos.  Also, keep in mind that these ideas work great for handmade greeting cards.

A Christmas Star

Who is into crocheting?  Do you need any new Christmas ideas?  Here is one pattern to try out.  I know how to do the common granny square so it should be easy for me to try, when I get the chance to. I came across this idea when someone else shared the instructions on the group page. 

Here’s what you need:

• worsted weight yarn (from your Kraut jar!)
• H hook
• tapestry needle

Click here to reference the Crochet Abbreviations Chart.

With first color, make a magic ring.

Round 1: Ch 3 (counts as dc here and throughout), work 2 dc in ring, ch 1, *3 dc, ch 1, rep from * 4 more times, join and fasten off — 18 sts.

Round 2:  Join next color in any ch-1 sp, ch 3, work [2 dc, ch 2, 3 dc] in same sp, ch 1, *[3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc] in next ch-1 sp, ch 1, rep from * 4 more times, join and fasten off — 36 sts.

Round 3: Join next color in any ch-1 sp, ch 1, work 1 sc in same sp, [3 dc, ch 3, 3 dc] in next ch-2 sp, * 1 sc in next ch-1 sp, [3 dc, ch 3, 3 dc] in next ch-2 sp, rep from * 4 more times, join and fasten off — 42 sts.

Ana from Lana & Hilos has created a helpful stitch diagram for this Granny Star. Click here to open the diagram.

 

http://www.petalstopicots.com/2012/12/granny-star-pattern/

Family Scrapbook Layout Ideas

5 Inspiring Ideas To Help You Create

Beautiful Family Scrapbook Layouts To Cherish Forever!

Looking for some unique family scrapbook layouts and ideas ?  Check these out!  Gather your photos and your scrapbooking supplies and get ready to create an album that will be treasured by your family for several generations.

Create a page or spread for each parent

When designing your album, include a family scrapbook layout of your siblings and parents, along with your spouse’s siblings and parents.  A lot of times when you start a family of your own, some family members will have passed away without your kids having the opportunity to know them.  These layouts will be a great way to let your kids know about Grandpa John or Aunt Liz

For a special layout, use a 5×7 photo of you in the middle of the page.  It can be a picture of you as a child, a teen, or adult.

Mat the photo in a neutral color.  Along the right side write your full name and on the left side the age you were in the photo.  Use smaller photos of your siblings and parents, mat in a similar style and write the names and ages.  Include stickers that say “brother”, “sister”, “mom”, “dad”, etc.
If you were an only child, you might want to include your grandparents. Embellish the page with a quote about families.

Purposely pose for photos 

While visiting some friends recently, I was inspired by three framed photos nicely arranged on their dining room wall.  In the first photo, the three siblings were under the age of 10.  They were sitting on the front porch steps in a cute pose.  In the next photo, they were all teens, and they used the same pose.  In the last photo they were young adults and once again used the same pose.  It was charming!
If you have little children you can do the same thing.  You don’t have to let years go by in between photos.  You could even take four seasonal photos in one year, change the decorations, but have the kids keep the same pose.  You could use this technique to make several special family scrapbook layouts!  Just add a catchy title and make cute frames.

Make a family collage

For each family member, create a page that is all about that person.  Include two to four photos showing one of the many roles that the person has—athlete, scout, singer, sister, son, comedian, etc.  Using different color fonts, type all the various roles the person has and randomly add them to the page.  If your kids are old enough, ask them to help identify the roles that they have. Then you could create an entire album of these family scrapbook layouts!
Embellish each page with stickers, confetti and other items that reflect that person.  Somewhere on the page include the person’s name with die-cut letters.  When you’re through these layouts will add a very special tough to your album!

Design monthly pages
A fresh idea for a family album is to create an album that focuses on one month at a time.
For the first page of each month use a 9 or 12 block grid.  Spell the abbreviation of the month diagonally (one letter per block).  Fill in the other blocks with family photos from activities that took place that month.  Leave one block open for journaling.  You can add additional pages and design them how you choose.

Create fun holiday family scrapbook layouts

Growing up, most of our family Christmas photos were taken in front of the fireplace.  Although we get amused at looking at the hair styles and clothing, the pictures were rather boring.  When you put together your holiday family layout, think about using individual photos rather than a group photo.  Here is a Xmas idea:

Christmas ornaments.  Using a round template, crop a photo of each family member.  If possible, use photos that provide a close-up of the head and shoulders.  Use red Christmas scrapbook paper as the background of the page.  On the left side of the page glue half of a green Christmas tree (branches should face the middle of the page).  Adhere your photos to the tree.  Add a border to each photo with thin red cord.  Add a little loop at the top.  Now your photos look like ornaments!  Add cute white buttons to the tree as an added accent.  On the top right corner of the page add two diagonal ribbons to the page.  Add your title to the lower right side.

Ideas For Family Scrapbook Layouts Are Endless! 

The key is to have fun with your layouts and choose photos that reflect your family’s personality and highlights the special moments you enjoy together.  As you take photos, look for photo opportunities that will make for fun and memorable family scrapbook layouts!

Taking Better Photos

When putting together a scrapbook layout, the quality of your photos will have a huge impact on the overall feel of the layout. 

There’s nothing worse than enjoying a special event , such as a trip to the zoo or attending your niece’s wedding, only to later discover that your photos are too blurry or too dark.

Thankfully with digital cameras, you can check your photos right away and might be able to snap a few new ones if you’re not happy with the photos you just took.

To ensure that your photos have a chance of turning out well, here are ten secrets to taking better photos.

1. Choose your focal point.

As you take photos, think about what you really want to emphasize.  Many times we think we need to take a full body shot of someone and we miss out on opportunities for some really interesting photos.

For example, let’s say your child is taking her first steps.  Sure you want a photo or two of someone holding out their hands to help keep the child stable, but you might also consider taking a close up of your child’s feet.  Does she walk with her toes curled?  Does he turn his feet out?  These will be fun photos to include in your layout.

A focal point doesn’t always have to mean keeping a person as the center of a photo.  If the photo background contains a neat stone wall, an interesting tree or a waterfall, then make those your focal points and have the person off to the side.

2.  Pay attention to the sun.

Too many photos turn out disappointing if the person is squinting from the sunlight.  When possible, you want good lighting behind the person.  You need to be careful though that you don’t cause shadows if you’re standing with the light behind you.

Depending on the type of mood you want to create, experiment taking photos that will cast a shadow or filter light on your subject.

3.  Change your camera angle.

Naturally, we tend to take photos at eye level.  Yet for a different effect, try taking some photos by angling the camera down towards someone or upwards toward your subject.  This idea works well if you want a photo of your sleeping baby or your son sitting in the apple tree reading a book.  The more you practice with different angles, the more you’ll discover unique photo possibilities.

4.   Capture the emotion.

We already know that a picture can speak a thousand words.  Depending on what type of emotion you want to capture, you might ask the person to look directly into the camera or to ignore the camera.

Let’s say your son just popped the question to his girlfriend.  This would be a good “into the camera” shot.  You’ll be able to capture his joy, anxiety and relief all in one shot.  If your toddler is having a bad day and the ice cream from his ice cream cone falls to the ground, sneak a photo of his quivering lip or sadness.  By not asking him to look directly into the camera, his disappointment will come across as real and raw.

5.  Use continuous shooting.

When photographing a person or animal who tends to move around a lot, continuous shooting can be a lot of fun.  You take a series of shots and afterwards choose four to six of those shots and use them in a layout in “filmstrip” style.  Place the shots side-by-side and it will give your layout an animation feel.

6.  Incorporate reflections.

Some of the most interesting photos include reflections, whether it be a person’s face reflected in a mirror, a lonely puppy reflected in a window, or the hands of a newly engaged couple reflected in a stream of water.  Look for opportunities to capture reflections.

7.  Photograph natural moments.

There are going to be times when you’ll want staged photos where everyone is nicely grouped together and smiling.  However, taking photos of natural moments can be very powerful.

Imagine a photo of a little boy giggling as his puppy licks his hand, or a child beaming when her kite stays in the sky for more than just a few seconds.  By taking photos of real life happenings, you’ll be able to get some great shots that are filled with all sorts of emotions.

8.  Opt for black and white photos.

Black and white photos are timeless.  As you think back on some of your favorite family photos, chances are some of your favorites are black and white ones.  These photos remove the distraction of color and texture and lets you focus on what is actually happening in the photo.

9.  Crop your photos.

By using a digital camera, you can always crop a photo later on.  If you’re taking a photo of your daughter doing a cartwheel in the front lawn, but discover that a person is just beginning to walk into the picture, you can easily crop that person out.  Depending on the quality of a photo, you can crop to get a close-up of just the subject’s hands, face, etc.

10.  Practice, practice, practice.

Lastly, one of the super nice things about digital cameras is that you can see results instantly and you’re not paying for wasted photos.  You can delete the pictures that didn’t turn out well and hold onto the ones that you might want to use later for your scrapbook layouts.  Practice taking different angle shots, using props and capturing everyday moments.  Get in the habit of taking your camera with you and just have fun taking a variety of photos.

7 ways to use Sandpaper

Thought these tips is a good idea to share as I have personally use one of these sandpaper techniques on my scrapbook layout. Some of these tips might be a good idea for your greeting cards (for those people who are stampers).

Adding texture to your scrapbook layouts can give your layouts a very different appeal.  One way of adding texture is with the use of sandpaper!  Whether you’re using sandpaper to change the texture of other materials, or you’re adding sandpaper directly to your layout, the possibilities are endless.

Here are a few fun techniques to try with your layouts!

# 1 – Vintage appearance.

Use a grey, dark green or brown card stock for the background of your layout.   Frame your photos with embossed paper.  Lightly sand the embossed paper with a light-grit sandpaper.  By sanding the paper, it will give the frames a vintage look.

# 2 – Stamp on sandpaper.

Instead of using a stamp on regular paper or card stock, try stamping on sandpaper!  Choose a fine grit sandpaper, cut a piece that is a little bigger than the stamp, and then stamp it.
Adhere the sandpaper to your layout and trace the edge of the sandpaper with a dark marker.  Permanent markers can be used to color in the stamped image.

# 3 – Create a denim look.

Making a layout for a teenager?  Create a denim background.  Begin with two-tone blue card stock.  Using the dark blue side, rub the sandpaper onto the card stock in a circular motion until it has a denim appearance.  Now you’re ready to add photos, journaling and a few embellishments.

# 4 – Aged lettering.

If you’re going to use colored die-cut letters, you can age the letters with the use of an emery board.  Using the emery board at a slant, rub along the outer edge of each letter until the edges turn white.  Aged lettering is the perfect accent for layouts of family reunions, genealogy or childhood memories.

# 5 – Weathered look for journaling.

Cut a piece of card stock into a rectangular shape to be used as the background for your journaling section.  Use  a light-grit sandpaper to add texture to the card stock.  Use different motions as you rub the paper, to create an interesting weathered look.  Card stock usually has a white inner, so as you rub sandpaper on it, some of the white will appear.  Glue a piece of paper onto the card stock, leaving a quarter inch border.

# 6 – Reduce shininess.

Sometimes adding stickers to a layout is a distraction.  The layout might have a vintage look, but once you put a couple of shiny stickers on the layout, it just doesn’t look right.  Lightly rub the stickers with a piece of sandpaper to give them a worn look.

# 7 – Distress your photos.

It’s not always necessary to frame your photos for a layout.  Try distressing your photos by sanding the edges.  It will create an interesting border.
Sandpaper is a great tool to keep with your scrapbook supplies and tools.  It will come in handy for a lot of your layouts.  Store sandpaper and emery boards in a ziplock bag to avoid accidentally scratching items that you don’t want to scratch.

So there you have it!  Seven ways of scrapbooking with sandpaper

Needlework projects

For a long time I have done some knitting and crochet but in general only simple things.  It was my Nanna whom taught me to knit the basics.  When I was in high school studying Home Economics, that is when I taught abit more then the basics to knit and crochet.  In high school I knitted a straight forward pattern of a blue vest and a granny square cushion cover in multiple colours.  I don't know what happened to vest but I think my mother still has the cushion cover in the linen cupboard.

At present time I am crocheting granny squares to join up to make a blanket from using old scrap wool.  At start I thought I was going to make a small blanket for the cats to sleep on but turns out there was more squares made to fit a single bed.  Currently I am half way through the project now.  Most of the time I have been crocheting at night while watching my reality shows. 

This morning I came across this pattern I would simply love to try out but the problem is I have trouble understanding the instructions.  It's too coded for me!!  I learn better when someone shows me on how to do it.   

Crocheted Cuddy Kittens  

Note.. Example made using the pink and rose instead of the baby blue and true blue.

      

This Pretty Pattern looks just like rows of kittens.
It's easy and quick to make.

Size 38” by 44' before fringing
Materials: knitting weight worsted yarn:
16 oz White
12 oz Baby Blue
8 oz True Blue
Size H aluminum crochet hook (or size required for gauge)
Gauge
5 Shells = 7"
Gauge Note: Each shell = (2 dc, ch 1, 2 dc).
Instructions
With Baby Blue, ch 139 loosely.

Row 1 (right side): Dc in 4th ch from hook. Dc in next ch sk 2 chs, work beg shell over next 2 chs as follows: 2 Dc in next ch, ch 1, 2 Dc in next ch (beg shell made). * Sk 3 chs, work beg shell over next 2 chs (as before); rep from * to last 5 chs; sk 2 chs, Dc in each of last 3 chs = 26 shells.

Row 2: Ch 3, turn; Dc in each of next 2 Dc, * work (2 Dc, ch 1, 2 Dc) in ch-1 sp of next shell (shell made); rep from * to last 2 Dc, dc in each of last 2 dc; dc in top of ch-3, changing to White.  (TO Change colors: Work dc until 2 lps rem on hook, finish off color being used, leave approx 4" end for weaving in now or later.  With new color (leave approx 4" end) YO and draw through 2 lps on hook = color changed.)

Row 3: With white, ch 3, turn; dc in each of next 2 dc, work puff st (abbreviated PS) in sp before first shell in 2nd Row below as follows; Work (YO and insert hook in space before first shell in 2nd Row below (1. Hook yarn and draw up a long loop to height of working Row) 4 times. (9 loops now on hook. 2. YO and draw through first 8 loops on hook then YO and draw through rem 2 loops on hook = PS made. *  Work a shell in ch-1 sp of each shell  (in working Row), Work PS in next SP between Shells in 2nd Row below; rep
from  *  to last shell; work a shell in ch-1 sp of last shell, work PS in sp after last shell in 2nd Row below; dc in each of last 2dc (in working Row), dc in top of ch-3 = 27 PS.

Row 4: Ch 3, turn; dc in each of next 2 dc, * sk PS, work shell in
Ch-1 sp of next shell; rep from * to last PS; sk last PS, dc in each of last 2 dc, dc in top of ch-3 = 26 shells.

Row 5: Rep Row 2, changing to True Blue in last dc.

Rows 6 and 7: With True blue, rep rows 3 and 4.

ROW 8: With True Blue, rep Row 2, changing to white in last dc.

ROM 9 and 10: With white, rep Rows 3 and 4.

Row 11: With White, rep Row2, changing to Baby Blue in last dc.

Rows 12 and 13: With Baby Blue rep Rows 3 and 4.

Row 14: With Baby Blue, rep Row 2, changing to white in last dc.

Rep Rows 3 through 14, 4 times more; then rep rows 3 through 13 once more. (You should now have 2 rows of Baby Blue at top edge)
Finish off and weave in all ends.

FRINGE Both short edges.  Cut 12' strands of Baby Blue. (Or color of your choice)  Use 2 strands for each knot.  Tie one knot in every Other st across edge.

      

Use of Colors

Limit yourself to 3 colors per layout!

Do you think much about your color choices when putting together a scrapbook layout?  How you use color can actually make a big difference in the overall appeal of your layout.  Depending on what type of effect you want to create, you might stick with one color, or use two or three colors.

Here are the best secrets of working with color to make sure your layouts are truly eye-catching!

# 1 – Use different shades of one color.

For some layouts, such as a layout containing photos of a baby boy, using one color can make a strong statement.  If the background is a light blue, then use a dark blue for photo mats and journaling blocks.  Create a title out of different shades and patterns of blue.  By sticking with one color, your photos and embellishments will pop. Here are some color ideas for layouts to consider:

• Off-white – bridal layout
• Pink – baby girl layout
• Green – past generation layout
• Brown – outdoors layout
• Burgundy – Valentine’s layout

# 2 – Use a trace of one color.

If the photos you’re using for a layout contain a lot of colors, then consider using a neutral background, such as beige or pale yellow.  Create photo mats using one color that you really want to help draw attention to in your photos.  For example, if you’re putting together a layout of the bride and bridesmaids, use the same accent color that is being used for the wedding.  Another example, you have an adorable photo of your little girl wearing a shirt that has a bright yellow duck on the front.  To draw attention to the duck’s cute orange beak, use orange as your matting.

If you have a computer photo program that allows you to change the colors of your digital photos, it’s fun to turn your photos into black and white ones, and only coloring one object.  Imagine a black and white photo of your son heading up the stairs with his teddy bear, and the only thing in color is the brown bear.  Use a shade of brown for the photo mat and you’ll have a stunning photo!

# 3 – Be selective with backgrounds.

Walk down most any scrapbooking supply aisle and you’ll discover lots and lots of different themed paper.  Although a lot of these papers are beautiful, it’s not necessary to always have a themed background for your layouts.  Use themed paper when you’re only going to include one or two photos in your layout.
Experiment with different backgrounds to go with the photos that you want to use for a layout.  Lay your photos on one background, if it doesn’t appeal to you, try a different background.  You’re bound to find a background that really ties in well with your photos.

# 4 – Limit your color use to three colors.

It’s easy to become overzealous when scrapbooking.  After all, you have so many colors, patterns and textures to choose from.  However, to use color to enhance your layouts, stick with no more than three colors for backgrounds, photo mats, etc.

Let’s say you’ve chosen a green background that has a pre-printed border consisting of light green, taupe and blue.  Use blue stock paper to create photos with a thin border of taupe.  Add a green bow or sequin to one or two corners.  Use of the three colors for your journaling.

# 5 – Utilize contrasting colors.

Have you ever looked at a scrapbook layout and the entire thing just looked dark?  It’s important to have some kind of contrast if your photos are dark and your background is dark.  An easy fix is to use white or a bright color for photo mats.  The same holds true if your photos are light.  You can still use a light background, but use dark photo mats.

# 6 – Create mood with color.

Different colors evoke different moods.  If you’re creating a layout with romantic photos, then red, burgundy or off-white are often associated with romance.  To give a layout a “warm” feel, use orange, yellow, taupe or peach.  To show energy, use brights such as red, lime green or hot yellow.  For a “cool” effect, consider purple, lavender, blue or dark green.

# 7 – Think complementary.

At Christmas time, we often use complementary colors—red and green.  Yet there are other opposite colors that can be paired together that will help you create a striking layout.  Try using yellow and purple, or orange and blue.  You can either use a neutral background and use the complementary colors for photo mats, the title, and journaling blocks, or use one of the colors for the background and the other one to highlight photos and journaling blocks.

# 8 – Choose your favorite color.

Naturally, you’re drawn to certain colors.  There’s a good chance that you can use a shade of your favorite color for most any layout.  Even if your favorite color is pink, which typically is considered a feminine color, a dark burgundy can be used for a layout of your son riding his skateboard.  Pair up the burgundy with a color from the photos.

Just remember…

The most important thing to remember when selecting colors for your layout is to choose colors that will help your photos pop.  You may need to experiment with a few choices, but you’ll discover the right combination that will turn an ordinary layout into a stunning one.

Family History

I have started scrapbooking my past history of myself and my family but at present time like every other projects, it's in the box to complete.  I will get back to complete my projects in the future before my aunties die.  Well it's abit hard to ask my grandparents as they have long gone before scrapbooking was here.

For for people who haven't started, it might be a good time to start now. Here's some interesting tips I have found elsewhere to help you get started.

Scrapbooking your family history is a great way to be able to pass on information from one generation to the next.  Also, depending on the information you’re able to gather, it can become a valuable tool in identifying common family traits, health history, etc.  The following provides suggestions on how to create family tree scrapbooks that will be appreciated for generations to come.

Determine your starting point.  How many generations?
The first step in scrapbooking your family history is to decide how many generations you want to include.
Are you thinking about creating an album of you, your spouse and children, or hoping to go back a generation or two?  Putting together family history scrapbook layouts can be overwhelming if you decide to include multiple generations.

Chances are you’ll find old black and white photos that don’t have names and dates written on them.  You might also discover that even though you know lots of stories about Uncle Fred, you don’t have any photos of him.  Thus, if you’re going to scrapbook multiple generations, be prepared that you may have little information on some of your relatives.  That’s okay.  Include whatever information you’re able to find.

Gather photos and information.  Document the past.
If you plan on including past generations as you work on family history scrapbook ideas, begin by sorting out your photos  Place maternal-side photos in one pile and fraternal-side photos in another pile.  As you sort through the photos, use post-it notes and write down information about each photo, such as full name, relation to you, age of person in the photo, etc.  Attach the post-it-note at the bottom of the photo.
In preparation for scrapbooking your family history, use a downloadable family tree or one that you design by hand, to list the relatives on your mother’s side of the family (i.e. siblings, parents, aunts, uncles).  For each relative, on a separate sheet of paper, write down as much of the following information that you’re able to gather.  You might need to contact relatives to find out some of the information.

• Full name, Was the person named after anyone in particular? Any nicknames?
• Date and place of birth, Education, Marriage
• Relation to your mother
• Diseases and health concerns, special honors or awards, special memories of that person
• If deceased, person’s age when he/she passed away.  Burial information. 

Once you’re through gathering information about the relatives on your mother’s side of the family, do the same with your father’s side of the family.

For the initial history family scrapbook layouts, design a family tree.  Include a circular cropped photo of each family member/relative along with his/her name.  Depending on how many people you’re including, this might be a spread (side-by-side) layout, or it may need to be done in two layouts.

Once your family tree layout is completed, create a page layout for each family member/relative.   Include a photo when possible and the information that you gathered about the person.  You might want to consider typing the information and using a pretty font.  Embellish each page with vintage items, such as old buttons, an old coin, stickers of antique toys, a partial love letter, an ID tag…anything that fits in with the information about that person.  At a craft store or online, you’ll be able to find background paper with a family history theme.

Popular Scrap Techniques

Running out of ideas as you work on your scrapbooks?  Need some new inspiration for your scrapbook layouts? These top two scrapbooking techniques will surely transform your pages!

1.  Interactive pages.  Flaps, tabs and more.

One of the most popular scrapbooking techniques that a lot of scrap bookers are having fun with is creating interactive pages.  Instead of putting your scrapbook pages in plastic sleeves, create layouts that contain little surprises.  Here are some fun ideas:

• Hidden Journaling Pocket.  Journaling doesn’t always have to be in plain sight.  In fact, keeping it hidden and letting the viewer hunt for it can be fun. Tuck a journal card inside of the pocket.

Journal pockets are super easy to make.  You can create a pocket from chipboard, card stock or a library card pocket.  As you fold the chipboard or card stock, make the back of the pocket a quarter of an inch higher than the front of the pocket.  Cover the front of the pocket with decorative scrapbook paper,  material or a large sticker.

• Small Envelope for Tokens.

Ever wanted to include a special coin, ticket stubs, a drink umbrella or some other small token in a layout, but just didn’t know how to display it?  Small envelopes work great for tokens.  Simply glue the front of the envelope to your layout. Attach a die cut or an unpeeled sticker to the flap of the envelope so that it overlaps onto the envelope when laying flat.  Place your token in the envelope and add a word or two to the envelope to let viewers know to peek inside.  Note, it’s important not to seal the envelope.  You want to be able to open and close it without ripping it.

• Pull-out Tab.

As a child, you might’ve read books that had pull-out tabs.  You would read the entire page and then would get to pull a tab to reveal a special picture or a very importance sentence.  This same concept is one of the hottest scrapbook techniques.  Use pull-outs to reveal a photo or journaling.  For example, create a photo mat and adhere your journaling inside of the mat.  Make a pull-out tab that will reveal the picture that the journaling is in reference to.

• Lift the Flap.

If your layout contains several photos, you might not want to fill up the page with a lot of journaling.  For a special scrapbooking technique, create flaps for the photos.  Use card stock for matting each photo.  However, instead of adhering the photo to the scrapbook page, adhere your journaling to the layout.  Use two-sided tape to attach your photo to the lower portion of the top of your mat and then attach the mat to the page by centering it over the journaling.  The viewer can then lift the photo to read the journaling.

• Mini Album.  A mini album is a great way to include extra photos with a layout.  For example, let’s say your layout is of your baby taking his first steps.  The actual layout might contain two or three photos, while the mini album might contain smaller close-up photos–baby’s feet, baby holding onto someone’s hand, baby trying to maintain balance, etc.

2.  Create transparency rub-ons.  Create exactly what you want.

When it comes to hot scrapbooking techniques, creating your own transparency rub-on is a “must try” technique.  Even though there are thousands of sticker messages, quotes and sayings, sometimes you just want to come up with your own words, or maybe you’re looking for a unique way to add a name or title to a layout.  Follow these simple steps to create your own transparency rub-on:

• Using Microsoft Publisher or Word, type your text in reverse.  Some programs have a reverse print function, or you might need to use Word Art.  Choose a font (style of lettering) that fits in with your layout and choose the size and color that you want.  Be sure to use a regular overhead transparency.
• Print the transparency and let it partially dry for a couple of minutes.  Turn the transparent over and line up the text to where you want it for the layout.  If you’re going to place words in different areas, carefully cut the transparency.
• Using a craft stick, rub the transparency to transfer the word from the transparency onto the layout.
• In addition to lettering, follow the same steps to add clipart to your layout.  You can leave the design as a black image, color it in with permanent markers, or use color ink for the transparency.
• If you have a rubber stamp that can be used in reverse order, you can stamp a transparency sheet, wait a couple of minutes, and then transfer it to your layout.
• Transparency sheets also work great to house pressed flowers.  Using two-sided tape, make a pocket for the flowers and then seal the top.  Add the pocket to your layout with two-sided tape.

Interacting pages and creating transparency rub-ons are just two of the popular scrapbooking techniques that a lot of crafters are having fun with. Give it a go yourself!  You will be amazed on how great your pages will look with one or both techniques used.

Six ways to use buttons

Today, adding buttons to scrapbook layouts has become super popular.  Buttons add charm, color, dimension and personality to your layouts.

You might not have a tin of your grandmother’s buttons, but chances are there are buttons hiding in your catch all (junk) drawer.

Buttons are such a hot scrapbook commodity, that you can now purchase a variety of buttons at a craft store or online.  In this quick guide I’ll give you six different ways to use buttons to create a magnificent look on your layouts!

1.  Create photo frames. 

Tiny buttons are a great way to create special frames for your photos and journaling blocks.  Simply glue the buttons onto cardboard mats and center over your photos.  The frames will give dimension and texture to your layouts.  By being selective with your colors, you can help pull the overall theme together.  Here are some examples:

• Layout with a baby boy theme – use blue buttons or teddy bear shaped buttons
• Wedding layout – glue buttons onto a piece of ribbon or lace and use as a border
• Layout of past generations – use antique looking buttons or pearl buttons
• Halloween layout – alternate black and orange buttons
• Easter layout – alternate green, pink and yellow buttons

2.  Include buttons as part of your title designs.

Usually a lot of thought is put into creating the title of a layout.  For added charm, include buttons.  You might want to use just one button as the dot for the letter “i”, create the first letter out of buttons, or just tuck a button into the title here and there.

3.  Add a fun touch to layout shapes.

Incorporating buttons with shapes and cut-outs can turn a simple design into one that adds a special flair to the overall layout.  Some ideas to consider are:

• Add a button to the top of a Christmas tree
• Use buttons on the front of a snowman
• Place a button as the center of a flower
• Use red buttons for a ladybug
• Yellow buttons can become the flames on birthday candles
• Draw a green stem and add two red buttons as cherries
• You can even add a button to a die cut!  This is a super easy way to give your layout a whimsical touch.
• Make a border out of buttons to divide a page into halves.

4.  Tack items with buttons.

For a fun special effect, use a button to “tack” photos, journaling blocks, etc. to your layout.  Just as you tack items onto a real bulletin board, your items can randomly be placed onto the layout.  There’s no need to keep straight lines.

5.  Utilize clear buttons.

Can’t find the right button for your layout?  Clear buttons to the rescue!  Find a scrap of patterned paper and adhere it to the back of the button.  This is especially a good idea if your scrapbook contains a lot of one color; the patterned button will add a little of other colors to the page.

6.  Enhance stamped images.

Want to create an elegant looking layout?  In one of the corners use floral and vine stamps.  As you color in the stamped images with green and one other color, include a few buttons of the same color.  The buttons will help your images pop and will look stunning.

A few things to keep in mind…

Buttons come in all sorts of shapes, sizes and colors.  It’s best to use buttons that have a flat-back to them.  This makes it much easier to adhere the buttons to the layout and won’t cause the layout to look bumpy.  Glue dots work well to adhere buttons to your layout.  For a special touch, you might want to actually sew a piece of thread through the button holes so that it appears that the buttons have been sewn onto the layout.
If you don’t have a lot of buttons on hand, consider:

• Asking friends to save the extra buttons that come with new clothes
• Going to a thrift store and look for cheap clothing that have fun buttons
• Ordering a bag of mixed buttons from an online craft store.  Some stores actually sell scrapbook buttons which are thinner than most regular buttons.
• Checking out garage sales that advertise sewing items

Including a few buttons in your scrapbook layout will turn an ordinary layout into a magnificent one.  As you put your layout together, experiment by placing buttons in different areas of the layout.  Before you know it, you’ll find the perfect spot for a button or two.
As with any type of embellishment, be careful not to overdo with the buttons.  Let the buttons enhance your layout, not detract from it.   Be creative and have fun!

12 ways of using your household goods

Looking for some fresh ideas for your scrapbook layouts?  You might have just what you need right in your home!  Cardboard, unwanted clothes, twist-ties, and leftover party decorations are just a few of the top twelve household items you can use as scrapbooking embellishments for your layouts!

# 1 – Cardboard.

Chances are you have quite a bit of cardboard in your home.  Whenever you do a mail order, it’s usually shipped in a cardboard box.
Cereal boxes and the backing of a pad of paper provide thin cardboard.  With a little bit of paint, glitter, or patterned paper, you can use cardboard to create a dimensional title for your layout, funky frames, or showcase your journaling.

# 2 -Cookie Cutters.

Cookie cutters aren’t just for the kitchen!  Use a round cookie cutter to create Christmas ornaments for a layout, Halloween cookie cutters to create fun shapes for a Halloween scene, or a flower cookie cutter to make journaling shapes for a garden layout.  For added fun, trace around the edges of your designs with glitter glue.

# 3 – Duct Tape.

Most people claim that duct tape can fix most anything, and that holds true for scrapbook layouts!  If you haven’t purchased duct tape in awhile, the next time you’re at the store, check it out!  Stores still sell the silver colored tape, but you’ll also find bright solids colors, stripes and even floral duct tape!
Imagine the fun you can have adding colorful duct tape to your layouts.  You’ll be able to create borders, photo frames, make a flower garden, or cut the tape into small pieces and use as confetti.

# 4 – Foil.

Want to brighten up your layout?  Add some foil!  Cut a thin piece of cardboard into a shape or letter and cover it with foil.  Add glitter or sequins for extra sparkle.

# 5 – Index Cards.

Colored index cards can be used for journaling blocks.  Add a couple of tiny stickers or glue twine around the edges to change an ordinary card into a creative journaling block.

# 6 – Leftover Party Decorations.

Leftover party napkins, paper tablecloths and cardboard decorations make great embellishments for scrapbook layouts.  Cut out the designs and add them onto your page.  If the tablecloth has an interesting border, cut a strip of it to be used as your layout border.  Also, don’t forget that your used gift bags and wrapping paper can also be used for your layouts.  Quite often gift bags will have die-cuts attached which can be an instant embellishment.

# 7 – Magazines.

Cutting out letters, words or phrases from a magazine is an awesome way of adding a unique look to your layout.  If you’re going to spell out a name or a title, use letters of various sizes and styles.  Words or phrases can be used as captions for your photos.  If you don’t have magazines, check out the flyers that come in the mail or the newspaper.

# 8 – Magnetic Letters.

If you have kids at home, chances are you have 1″ or 2″ magnetic letters on your refrigerator door.  Use these letters as templates to help create a title, word or monogram for your scrapbook layout.  Letters can be made out of patterned paper scraps, bright envelopes that come in the mail, comic strips, or any other paper that you have.

# 9 – Nail Polish.

Do you have a bottle of nail polish that’s almost empty?  Use the nail polish to paint brass fasteners.  The fasteners will look adorable as “tacks” for your photos.

# 10 – Toothbrush.

Instead of throwing out your old toothbrush, give it a good cleaning and then use it to add flair to your layout.  Scribble on wax paper with a marker and add a few drops of water.  Dip the toothbrush into the mixture and flick the paint onto your layout.

# 11 – Twist-ties.

Don’t toss out the twist-ties that come on a loaf of bread!  Use the ties as a stamp.  Gently press a tie onto an ink pad and then press it against your layout.  This technique will provide an interesting look to your layout.  You can use the ties to emphasize a title or to create whimsical stems for flowers.  Other items, such as a clean dry sponge, cork, a potato or an eraser can be used as a stamp as well.

# 12 – Unwanted clothes.

Do you have some clothing that you couldn’t even give away at a garage sale?  Use it for your layouts.  Adding material to layouts has become super hot this season.  Whether it’s satin, velvet, lace, plaid, floral…the possibilities are endless.  Also, the ribbons, buttons or patches can be used as embellishments as well.
More and more scrapbookers are looking for ways to utilize household items into their layouts.  Not only does this cut down on scrapbooking expenses, it’s also a great way of using items that might eventually be tossed out otherwise.

Recycled ways with Old Jeans

Don't throw away your worn-out jeans! Recycle them into bags, toys, and other items.  With these fun and easy projects, you'll be able to put those well-loved jeans to use in ways you couldn't imagine.

 

1. To reduce your paper consumption AND protect your hands, make a coffee cup cozy from two layers of denim. Just measure, cut and sew. Use rick rack or contrasting fabric at the edge for a cute touch.   
2. Turn old jeans into handy (har har har) pot holders. 
3. Cover a bulletin board with the denim if you can't stand the sight of cork anymore. 
4. Glue a magnet onto the back of jean pockets for a handy place to stash on your fridge. 
5. Turn each pant leg into a handy lunch sack 
6. Make a pocket organizer. Cut off the ends of pant legs and stitch the cut side closed to make a pocket. Arrange six of these pockets on a sturdy piece of poster board and hang from a door for a handy organizer. Or, attach loops of demin to the pockets and hang from a bar. 
7. Turn your old jeans into a cute utility belt/apron 
8. Make a bucket for your yarn skeins or other craft supplies with a pair of jeans. 
9. Denim makes a great, sturdy material for pet toys
10. Create a water-bottle holder with shoulder strap and cute pockets 
11. Use the leg of a pair of jeans to sew up a draft stopper. 
12. Strips of old jeans can be crocheted into a bag or even a rug.  
13. Use the leg of a pair of old jeans to create a yoga bag.

Read more at http://www.favecrafts.com/Green-Crafting/14-Things-to-Do-with-Old-Jeans/ml/1/&utm_source=ppl-newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=quickandcrafty20130927#CylAucUL5YSelw9b.99

The best scrap tips

Here are the seven hot techniques you should be using on your layouts this year!

# 1 – Incorporate weaving.

One of the hottest techniques being used for scrapbook layouts is weaving.  Remember as a little kid in school the teacher would have you weave strips of construction paper into a large piece of construction paper that had slits?  Using the same concept, you can incorporate weaving into your layout.
Whether you choose to weave a border, photo frames, or different shades of green to add grass to a page, weaving adds a fun texture and look to your layout.
Although you can use construction paper to weave with, experiment with different materials, such as:  patterned scrapbook paper, wallpaper, ribbon or durable wrapping paper.  If you use a small weave, you can adhere your weaving to pre-cut stock paper to create most any design.  For example, flower petals look stunning made out of weaving.

# 2 – Embellish with buttons.

More and more, buttons are becoming a huge hit in the world of scrapbooking.  You can embellish your layout in so many different ways with the use of just a few buttons.  Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• create a border for one or more sides of your layout
• use buttons for the center of flowers
• make button borders for photos and journaling blocks
• add a monogram made out of buttons
• fill an empty space with two or three different buttons

Chances are you already have buttons, especially if you buy clothing that includes extra buttons.  If you need to buy buttons, you can actually purchase buttons that are made for scrapbooking.  These buttons are usually thinner than regular buttons.  You’ll also find a wide selection of themed buttons, such as hearts, frogs or smiley faces.

# 3 – Jazz your layout with patterned tape.

Patterned tape, such as the designs created by Washi Tape strips, is super hot in scrapbooking!  You can quickly add borders, fill in an empty space, or create photo mats with patterned tape.  Floral, checkered and stripes are the most popular choices of tape.

# 4 – Add glitz and glam!

 Are you drawn to scrapbooking paper that has glitter?  It’s easy to create the same effect with your favorite scrapbooking paper.  Choose different shapes on the paper, add clear glue, and sprinkle with glitter!  Also, adding flat craft gems, sequins and pearl accents will give your layouts lots of glitz and glam!

# 5 – Recycle it. 

With more and more people choosing to “go green” and wanting to find new purposes for items that would’ve been typically thrown away, using recycled items in scrapbook layouts is becoming hugely popular!  Here are some fun examples of products that you probably have at your home:

• Cut out the inner circle from plastic container tops and use as photo mats.
• Make titles out of cardboard.  You’ll need to use an exacto knife to cut out each letter.
• Turn unused envelopes that come with your bills and advertisements into confetti.
• Cut out designs from the leftover holiday paper napkins.
• For small weaving projects, weave strips of candy bar wrappers together.  This will add a fun touch of bright shinny colors.

# 6 – Mix and match patterns.

For many years, scrapbookers focused on coordinating patterns and colors for each layout.  One of the hottest trends now is to mix it up!!!
Try blending polka dots and plaids together, or how about mixing different shades of orange and reds together?  By sticking with two main patterns or two colors, you’ll be surprised at how well they can work together.

# 7 – Include texture.

Texture is a huge appeal to so many people.  How often when you go shopping, do you like to touch items and feel the texture?
Whether you’re scrapbooking a card, a mini scrapbook, or a scrapbook page, adding texture will make a big difference in your layout.  Burlap, textured wallpaper, sandpaper, lace, and corduroy have been super popular choices this year.
Embellishments can provide texture as well.  Tiny hearts, silk flowers, brass tacks and tiny pom poms are fun choices.  If you’re creating a layout that will be kept in a plastic sleeve, then you need to be sure to choose embellishments that aren’t too bulky.  However, if you’re making holiday cards, then you don’t have to be as concerned.

One of the key ingredients in creating an awesome scrapbook layout, is to experiment with new ideas!  Even if you have your favorite template, just by adding new textures, glitter or a little bit of a weaving, can make a huge difference.  Don’t be afraid to mix and match patterns or putting together two colors that typically are kept separate.  Implement some of these scrapbooking techniques and you’ll be onboard with this year’s new trends!

Scrapbook Sketches

What are you generally like when it comes to scrapbooking?  Are you a motivated person to complete pages quickly or intend to take hours to finish one layout.  The best way to complete layout quickly to plan your layouts and photos together.  The best way to help is to use scrapbooking sketches which you can be found online at most scrapbook business or in books today.

I have been using this method for a while now and it's the best way to complete more pages at a meet.  But because I am in the processing of moving address, I haven't scrap for a while.  Once I settle at my new address I will get back into scrapbooking then. 

From simple to elegant

Just a quick blog to give more tips for scrapbookers who need abit more inspiration or lost their mojo after winter was here.

Ways to get your simple layouts to more elegant pages.  This would suit a more particular theme if you are scrapbooking for someone special.

1. Use patterned paper as your background paper to give your layout an extra dimension.  Beware on how busy your photo is. I found it's easier to mount your photos onto plain cardstock first before adding to the patterned background.

2.  Either hand or machine sew your page layout to give it more a homely feel.

3.  Add quotes to your layouts.  Either from recycled greeting cards, quote stickers or goggle search quotes.  Some website addresses are good resources to seek quotes, phrases or peoms to add a sentimental touch to your layouts.

More tips

I joined a new scrap group on facebook last week and the host of this group list interesting scrap tips for members to read. I view a video recently and it was all about how to get a good album completed. I think this would suit more a beginner to scrapbooking.

1 To save your memorabilia, it is recommend to scan the originals to be able to reduce the size to print and scrap

2 To store 3D pages, it is recommend to use a ring bind folder albums. Do not overfill your album and keep your album stored upright.

3 Match your paper or cardstock with your photos. For eg: For a plain photo (only one image), use a printed papers. If your photo is busy (ie more then one image), use plain paper or cardstock in work.

4 It is recommended to journal your pages but not everyone is into journaling a lot on one page. She recommended to have a hidden journal set up on either a tag or envelope in a pocket set up somewhere on your page. But I was told elsewhere, you can journal on the back of your album page (if you using more a ring binder kind of albums)

5 Understand what acid free really means. If your print your photos at home or add memorabilia direct to the album, she suggested to use PRESERVE IT SPRAY. She didn’t say how much this cost but I guess you can get it from your local craft store. She did point out it is not recommended to use acid free glue sticks because the work won’t be adhesive down for very long. She suggested to use adhesive squares on your work. Don’t lose your mojo creativity!

May be introduced to CTMH soon

It has been an interesting month in the scrapbooking world.  Last month we all got the news about Creative Memories went into receivership after 26 years of operation in US. 

Of course there were alot of mixed emotions from various customers and consultants throughout Australia.  I was more pissed off because I only paid for the renewal of my yearly membership on the same day as the receivership taken place. Not sure if I should blame the ex-consultant for not emailing sooner or the company for delaying in sending the email to all of their consultants. After failing into talking to the consultant involved and my bank, I didn't get the refund back. It wasn't the money the problem, it was more the principle of the business outcome failing to to do the right thing for all concerned.  

I decided not to buy anymore of their products online during their liquidation sales, incase the refund policy of no more stock available didn't happened. But I will have to find somewhere like eBay to buy album refills for two coversets.

Anyway...... there seems to be good news I wish to share. Just read an email from the CM administrators today that the Australia based CM (and possibly NZ too) company has been sold to Close to My Heart company, based in US. It's another craft company that caters for all papercrafters interests. For further details go to: http://www.closetomyheart.com/ They also have a facebook page

I don't know how long this company has been in operation but I am guessing it would be around a decade by now. When I had a look at CTMH website they are going to expand their business opportunities to Australia and New Zealand from July 2013. It might be a good business opportunities for ex-CM consultants and their customers to try something new... now. Even I might consider thinking about joining up as a consultant myself as I have a variety of craft talents up my sleeve.  I would love to teach other paper crafters at workshops from home. It's been my dream for afew years now.

But I am still feeling abit fickle about business opportunities for myself to do something I love. Only because I heard through the grapevine about other craft shop based businesses aren't going so well anymore. At present time it seems to be only the online businesses to be going more successful. Is it because shoppers don't want to go visiting stores anymore?? If that is the case how do you learn new ideas if your creative mojo runs out.

I had a look at their ideas book online and it seems to sell a better range of scrapbooking and other papercrafting supplies to cater for all papercrafters.  The pricing of their products seem to be abit cheaper than CM was but I am not sure of the currency exchange rate between US and Australia at present time.   

Last Memoranza

Yesterday I attend to an all day scrapbooking meet with other CM members.  This day was planned about a month or two before CM went into receivership.  The truth was told yesterday which I knew all along.  It was the main company is US who is in financial trouble and is causing operation problems for Australia.  I assume NZ is in the same vote!! 

 

All this week I had emails about liquidation sales.  It ends tomorrow night!  I would like to order but I don't trust the company anymore after what they done to my membership.  If I order online I may not get the item (as all items listed WSL) and they won't refund me  I probably do better on eBay!! Don't tell my consultant that as she wasn't happy about some ex-consultants were selling their stock on eBay. Majority of the sales on offer are high bidders on album refills and page protectors.  They are going triple the RRP. I heard through the grapevine there is a company who makes very similar album pages as CM. I should check their website to see how much they are going for.

 

The only item I purchased cash was a cup caddy when you place on the side of the table. Normal RRP was $35 but she had the reduced sale for $15.  This caddy is bigger then the previous model (known as the side kick years before). You can even place your mobile inside (where you suppose to). It would be big enough for two mobile phones of today.

 

We had afew raffles going!  We had to earn tickets to get one or more tickets.  I managed to get only three from using particular tools or completed their pages of the day. And guess what?  I won a small pack of Christmas stickers!! The jokes were going around about selling some our winning items on eBay.  Of course our consultant overheard and wasn't a happy camper about that.  But hey!  Some people (sellers) need money as the company didn't pay their wages for the past month or two.  And the buyers were desperate for their item so they will pay anything for it as it isn't available anymore. 

 

Apparently there was a corporate meeting during the week about the company's future.  We were told there could be prospect for a new company introduced in Australia.  I mean that could be months or afew years before that could be up and running. Until then, life goes on!!

Farewell CM!!!

Today I supposely attend to the scrapbooking workshop but since CM has gone into receivership I don't think my consultant's workshops will be continuing anymore.  It doesn't really bother me because I have learnt alot of CM ideas for the past 14 years. I have alot of workshop sheets around to guide my inspiration ideas if I lose my mojo.  If I need to see new ideas for inspiration I will just go online and have a look around or use magazines.  Guess the only thing I will miss is the other ladies at workshops and attending camps twice a year.  It was alot of fun going away for the weekend!!

 

I do know afew other workshop ladies would be upset about this changeover because I think it was their only time they go out for a social scrap time with other scrapbooking friends.  I have the craft store so I will probably continue to do just casual scrap meets weekly on Tuesdays until further notice. And do more digital work at home which I found it's easier and be quicker to create a page then going traditionally method.  To be honest I thought CM might of been heading towards digitally standards as some of their traditionally items for sale was going off the market.

 

What pissed me off the most was I only renewed my yearly membership on Friday and I was told via my consultant about the company's downfall on Saturday.  Unfortunately my payment  has been processed and I found out I won't be able to claim a refund from the company.  I called into my bank to find out if they could do the process on my behalf.  They can but they have to close our account down before they can process my dispute.  It isn't the money that bothers me, it's the principle of the head office failing to tell their clients the right way. They could of at least advertised on their website to warn their clients before making an online transaction.

 

To my understanding as I heard through the grapevine, it seems it was the US company who is in financial difficulties which is affecting the operation in Australia.  That would make more sense when I looked at the US version online when they said the same thing and shown all the products as WSL. And it seems the company knew before last Friday they plan on going into receivership. I was told via various business owners, they won't refund my membership money or pay up who they owe money to.  Isn't that class as fraud??  Good luck to them if they can get away with it but I am sure someone who has the money will make a courtcase if the company doesn't deal with their creditors who have bigger fish to fry. 

 

I don't know how often you would use eBay but I had a good look last night (for the first time in many months) to see how much Creative Memories products are available.  I couldn't believe what I saw!!  I seen (more then once of course) a pack of album refills and one pack of page protectors at around $150 and the auction hasn't ended yet. I have two coversets (which I only purchased at discounted prices) that requires album refills and etc but no way I would pay $150 plus when the normal rrp is around $50.   How desperate would you pay for something that can't be purchased from the company anymore??

 

CM started in US in 1987 and move to Australia ten years later.  Afew people had said it was the competition from other craft companies they had to try and keep up with the times.  From what I have seen for over a decade it might of been their downfall!! I will admit some of their CM products are fantastic but it was the cost of the item was the downfall to my budget requirements.