Thursday, May 31, 2012

My Favorite Plumeria Layout

Finally got one of my layouts straight for this month - must be the end of the month! :)

I love the way this layout came together with all of its purple wonderfulness.

In this layout, I used angular cuts to accentuate the florals that are at opposite ends. The many extra flowers from the companion papers really make great accents!

Dont be afraid to try multiple patterns from the same collection. You wont be disappointed.

Wednesday, May 30, 2012

Wednesday Layout






This week's layout uses a variety of papers from American Crafts to My Mind's Eye. We're also using a set of graduation stickers.

But you're not graduating? No problem! These have phrases that fit many things. For example, kids finally learned how to ride bikes without training wheels. I'm going to use this layout to document this long-awaited moment.

And, for the free elements we have watercolor paper for you to alter. Grab your spray mists, ink pad, paint or pen and let's go.

If you're using a dye ink pad, like Tim Holtz's Distress Inks (or his markers), you can swipe color onto the paper then spritz with water. The inks are reactive with water and do fun things when wet.

If you have paint, add lots of water before applying it for more of a translucent, watercolor effect. And have fun!

Tuesday, May 29, 2012

Adore

I’m totally in love with Basic Grey’s Plumeria Collection! It's absolutely BEAUTIFUL! ;) 


To create the scallop circle I used my Creative Memories Jumbo Scallop Circle Pattern. I placed the scallop circle in the middle of my paper and using the custom cutting system blades I created the large scallop circle. I also used the Creative Memories Circle Patterns to create the smaller circles.


Prior to adhering the medium sized circle to my layout I added lace around the circle. I adhered the lace to the back of the circle and then machine stitched to add a decorative touch.


I added a banner along the top, layering a few chipboard hearts for dimension.

Paper
Basic Grey – Plumeria

Embellishments
Webster’s Pages – letters
Prima, KaiserCraft and Recollections – flowers
Prima – bling flourish
Walton – doily
Eyelet Outlet – eyelets 
Michael’s – pearls
Basic Grey – chipboard
Wyla Inc. – lace trim
May Arts – ribbon

Thanks so much for looking! 
Erica 

Monday, May 28, 2012

5/28/2012 8:41 PM Happy Memorial Day! Hope you have enjoyed your weekend with friends and family. Stop by the store this week and check out the new products.
  • American Crafts- Dear Lizzy Acrylic Smile/Camera stamp.
  • Authentique- Glory Collection Kit (includes 12 double side papers, 12x12 details sticker and 12x8 elements sticker) and 6x6 paper pad that includes 2 papers each of 12 designs.
  • EK Success- Disney Mickey Family Girls, Disney Princess Group 2 and Disney Mickey Family dimensional stickers.
  • Trinity Paper Arts- 3 new 12x12 Collection Kits: Sincerely, Making the Grade and Surf and Swim.

We have tickets for the Great American Scrapbook Convention next month; pick yours up the next time you are in the store! We have posted Joanna Slan’s Zentangle classes for Friday June 22 so be sure to sign up as soon as possible to save your place. We have 1 space left for the Quick Quotes Trunk Show on Friday June 8th. Be sure to stop by that day for a great sale on all Quick Quotes products even if you are not doing the classes! Have a great week. Debbie  

Sunday, May 27, 2012


fun times with grandma

The Plumeria paper line has endless possibilities and is by far one of my favorite Basic Grey lines. In this layout, as with most of mine, I layer my pictures with three to four layers of the “plumeria” paper line. I added the many coordinating items that came with this line, the chipboard alphas, chipboard pieces, transparences, the layered stickers, and the layered trim. The store recently restocked up on a lot of these items so stop in soon. (Sorry about the pictures being grainy, next month I am going to use matt instead of glossy pictures which will make for better blog pictures. :))

Saturday, May 26, 2012

Art Journaling with Basic Grey Plumeria

For my altered item this month I decided to play around with Art Journaling.  I have been taking Karen Bearse's Art Journal classes at Scrapbooks-Plus.  It was a blast playing with all the new techniques and supplies I have gathered up since taking her classes! The Basic Grey Plumeria line lent itself nicely for this project.  I used my tearing ruler to create pockets on the front cover to hold tags.  I can't wait to fill them up with all sorts of stories!
By using stamps, paints. inks, and some great tools, you too can create fun pages like this!
I played around with some overlays, Glimmer Mist sprays, inks and die cuts from Spellbinders and LOVE how this page turned out!!  It is definitely my favorite!  I have found that Art Journaling is not about being precise and perfect, but about being unique so that each page can help tell your story.  Scrapbooks-Plus has some wonderful product to help you create your own Art Journal using the Basic Grey Plumeria collection.

Friday, May 25, 2012

Plumeria card


This card design is versatile and useful for many occasions. The best part is that it is easy and makes very good use of your scraps!

I learned this technique from one of Scrapbooks Plus' awesome teachers - Susie Bentz!

With just a few simple cuts and scraps of paper, you can have a quick and easy card for any occasion!

Thursday, May 24, 2012

Moments

I had so much fun using all of the Plumeria patterned papers because the colors are SO gorgeous. 


I tried a new technique on this page; I actually made the white flowers using this tutorial:http://gabriellepollacco.blogspot.com/2011/07/rose-creations-tutorial-2-websters.html (thanks Gabrielle!). This tutorial was simple and easy to follow; I think my flowers turned out beautifully! ;) 



I used several small Walton doilies (paper baking doilies purchased from Target (in the baking aisle). Using my Tim Holtz distress ink I turned the white doilies pink and added a bit of glitter around the edge. 



Paper
Basic Grey – Plumeria

Embellishments
Webster’s Pages – letters
Prima and Recollections – flowers
Want 2 Scrap – bling flourish
Walton – doily
Michael’s – pearls
Basic Grey – chipboard
Wyla Inc. – lace trim
May Arts – ribbon
Recollections – metal pieces

Thanks for looking! 
Erica 

Wednesday, May 23, 2012

Wednesday, May 23rd Make and Take

Stop by Scrapbooks-Plus today and get the supplies to make this week's Make and Take! This layout features my usual favorite, Basic Grey.  I chose the new “What’s Up” paper collection which comes with lots of coordinating colors of salmon and aqua.  As always with Basic Grey there are lots of embellishments to choose from.



Tuesday, May 22, 2012




Chunky Elegance

Just like adults, kids love to look at pictures especially of themselves.  I created this chunky book for my niece to play with, look at, and show her friends.  It will give her many hours of entertainment.  It is really easy to make, just cut chip board to the desired size, in my case I made the book 4x4 inches.  I cut 12 pieces of the Basic Grey “plumeria” papers 5x5 inches.  Center the chip board over the 5x5 inch piece of paper and adhered.  Sand the edges of the chip board with my favorite sander (Tim Holtz).  I added pictures and layers of paper along with embellishments from the “plumeria” paper line.  Added a few ribbons, coordinating brads, and chipboard along with a little bling sparkle.    I placed one of the layered stickers on a picture on the right page layout.  Finally, I punched holes on the left side of each page and threaded a coil through, cut and crimped the ends.  I added lots of ribbons on the spine along with some Tulle to complete my chunky book.  I got the Tulle ideal from Erica, her books and pages look fabulous with it so I thought I would give it try myself and love it!  Thanks for the ideal Erica!



Sunday, May 20, 2012

Plumeria altered item

Just like before, I have to apologize for the direction of this layout. Im not sure how to turn this around especially when its turned around on my computer.

This started out as something similar to a 6x12 canvas and morphed into this - and I like it!

This will become mantle art once it is off the wall at Scrapbooks Plus. I love that this is a regular/ordinary picture that is now a work of art.

Saturday, May 19, 2012

Simple Cards


This card came together fast thanks to coordinating elements from Basic Grey. After layering several strips of paper from the Plumeria line I added Bazzill border strips - I only had to trim the end!

I found a doily rub on in a drawer and layered a sticker for my sentiment. Don't have a rub on? You can use a doily stamp or a small doily, or even something circular in it's place.

Thursday, May 17, 2012

Friendship Card Set

This month's Scrapbooks-Plus DT kit is from Basic Grey.  There are a variety of colors in this line of papers but I chose those pages with purple in them to create some fun everyday cards.  These are great to have on hand when you just need to write a quick note for someone special.

Of course, I had to do something other than a card set so I added a box to put my cards in.  Wouldn't this make a great gift for that special friend?

Wednesday, May 16, 2012

Simple Stories Wednesday Layout - May 16


Who doesnt love Simple Stories Collections? They are awesome and perfect for every occasion. If you are super busy and need quick and easy to get it done - Simple Stories is the company for you!

Be sure to stop by Scrapbooks Plus today to get the supplied needed to create this layout! Dont be afraid to step outside the box on this one and change it up!







Tuesday, May 15, 2012

Not So Perfect Photos

I had this photo from Easter morning. It wasn't by any means perfect. The lighting was poor, you can see the ugly yellow of the walls of my kitchen, and my son's face is too shadowed. But I love it because it really conveys a lot of the personality of my children. So I scrapped it.

Don't worry that a photo isn't perfect - right colors, good lighting, etc. etc.... If you love the photo, include it. 


For this layout, I did a simple composition. Lots of white space, a little bit of color and pattern. And a tag from Basic Grey - perfect. 

The light grey paper under the photo is from Bazzill. It's really thin, great for layering and collages. You can find it in the back of the store with the cardstock - there's three fabulous patterns.

Sunday, May 13, 2012

Happy Mother's Day!

Happy Mother's Day!

I created a number of cards with this Basic Grey DT kit this month.  I will post in a few days with more designs but today I wanted to say Happy Mother's Day to all the Moms, Grandmas, Aunts and any other special person who has been a 'Mom' of any kind. 


I created this card with the negative space cut by my Cricut for one of my other cards you'll see in a few days.  I took several of the paper scraps I had from this kit and pieced triangles together then stitched them with my sewing machine to give it a homespun look.  I placed my negative image over it to form a window (and so I didn't have to cut the outside edges in that pretty, but difficult shape!).  I finished it off in the center with a coordinating Basic Grey brad and stamped Happy Mothers Day on the bottom right corner.

I hope you have a wonderful day!

Saturday, May 12, 2012

A Little Glitz, A Little Glamour and Presto A Lovely Book

I never make books, but this month’s Basic Grey Plumeria papers and embellishments seemed perfect to fill a little book.  So I made one.  I think it would make a great gift to thank someone for their involvement in a special day, such as bridesmaids.  This paper reminds me of weddings while avoiding the usual white and silver.

I started with a BoBunny Chipboard book.  I simply glued coordinating papers to the back and front of each chipboard page with a glue stick and a brayer.  (Okay, I first decided what color and embellishments would go on the front and the ¾” of each odd page that showed.  Because so little of each page would show, I was able to use some pages that didn’t seem to go together.   For example, I loved  Moonstone and Budding Lavender, but with the orange  they didn’t seem  to go with the cover’s grape color.   But by using turquoise on the ¾” that showed and only using the orange on the parts of the page that didn’t, I was able to use Moonstone and Budding Lavender.) 

Then I decorated each page with ribbons, lace, buttons, chipboard, rhinestones, and other embellishments.  As I was working on the pages, I thought this is my favorite page and then I’d complete another one and it was my favorite page. 

I used a variety of punches to cut photo mats and accents.  I used a scalloped circle punch, a circle punch a Martha Stewart punch around page, a Sizzix library die, a Tim Holtz Mini Labels die, a Tim Holtz Movers and Shapers Flourish die, and a Tim Holtz On the Edge Brackets die.

For my embellishments (and I used lots) I started with the letters and chipboard designs from the Basic Grey Plumeria line   I especially loved the stamps and butterflies.  For one butterfly, I created antennas by using stickpins with gold pearl hearts on top.  (The set of stickpins includes white hearts and gold and white orb shapes.)   I used lots of rhinestones and pearls from BoBunny French Market Collection.  On the cover, I used them to add a little glitz as accents on the flowers.   Two of the KaiserCraft wooden doilies added nice touch.  I used lace and six different ribbons available at ScrapbooksPlus.   I also used Tim Holtz Hangar Clips, Bazzill Flowers, and Bazzill Jewels. Elements buttons are used on a few pages.   I really did just start with the background and then piled on the fun embellishments.


When all pages were complete, I punched holes through the paper  (the book comes with holes in the chipboard) and put the book together with ivory rings and tied lots of ribbons on them.  

If you want to copy my book, the store staff can help you locate the items you need.  Most will be displayed in the back of the store near the Design Team Wall.  While there, you can take a really close look at the book.  I liked doing this so much I think you’ll see more books from me in the future.


Friday, May 11, 2012

{my girl}

 I love, LOVE, love this line by Basic Grey!

I also love, LOVE, love this photo I took of my daughter when she was 6!
So sweet.
These papers are perfect for scrapping this pic... I'm glad I waited.


The title is made from one of the papers in the line as well as alphas from the chipboard set.  I used a Tim Holtz die to cut out the shape of the title block.  I used some of the stickers as my "journaling" for the layout.  Listing words that describe a person or event is a great way to change up your journaling, especially when your photo speaks for itself.  I added ribbon to the sticker flags using the Tim Holtz tiny attacher


I added several other chipboard pieces from this collection to the layout to finish it.  I especially love these sweet butterflies.  The layout came together so easily with all of the wonderful elements that coordinate with this line. Basic Grey always does a great job but I think Plumeria is one of my all time favs!!

Thursday, May 10, 2012

Tropical Travelogue

It’s that time again – back for the third month – I’ve created an all-in one mini album kit for ScrapbooksPlus. This mini album kit has already been designed with easy to follow instructions included in each kit – all you actually have to do is put it together. How simple is that? 


This month’s kit futures Graphic 45’s Tropical Travelogue Collection! Create this marvelous album and feel as if you’ve stepped into another world. This vintage inspired album captures the flamboyant style of the 1920's and 30's – with vibrant color, irresistible texture, imaginative design and decades-old appeal that's both fresh and familiar. This kit makes it easier than ever to document your precious summer and/or vacation memories.

The number of kits available is limited, so drop by the store today to purchase yours before they’re gone.

Here’s a sneak peak at two of my FAVORITE pages!



Each Kit Includes: 
1 BBP Totally Exposed 8x8 Chipboard Album 
1 BBP Totally Exposed 8x8 Die-Cut Cardstock Page Dividers 
1 Tropical Travelogue 8x8 Paper Pad 
1 Tropical Travelogue Chipboard Tags 1 
1 Tropical Travelogue Chipboard Tags 2 
1 Tropical Travelogue Cardstock Stickers 
1 Tropical Travelogue 12x12 Paper: Garden Isle 
1 Tropical Travelogue 12x12 Paper: Tiki Voyager 
2 Tropical Travelogue 12x12 Paper: Island Jewel 
1 Tropical Travelogue 12x12 Paper: Paradise Postage 
2 Tropical Travelogue 12x12 Paper: Exotic Destination 
2 Tropical Travelogue 12x12 Paper: Botanica 
1 Tropical Travelogue 12x12 Paper: Jungle Fever 
4 Sheets Recollections Cardstock Paper 
1 Yard Sweet Petites Light Blue Ribbon 
1 Foot Pure Color Peach Organdy Ribbon 
1 Yard Craft Smart Brown Jute Ribbon 
1 Yard Celebrate It Gold Glitter Ribbon 
1 Yard Celebrate It Cream Sheer Ribbon 
1 Yard Sweet Petites Lime Organdy Ribbon 
8 Feet Celebrate It Pearls 
14” Simplicity Jewel Gold Trim 
1 Foot Wyla Inc., Tulle – Pink 
2 Yards Wyla Inc., Cream Lace 
1 Piece Craft Medley Natural Hemp Cord 
1 Package Wilton Gold Foil Doilies 
2 Pieces Recollections Gemstone Stickers 
11 Pieces Gartner Champagne Bling 
5 Pieces Recollections Floral Embellishments: Orange 
2 Pieces Recollections Floral Embellishments: Brown Fabric 
1 Piece Recollections Floral Embellishments: Aqua Fabric 
1 Package Recollections Floral Embellishments: Brown Paper 
1 Package Recollections Floral Embellishments: Aqua Paper

Thanks for looking!
Erica

Plumeria 2 page layout


The first thing you will notice is a layout that is side-ways. Unfortunately, I cant seem to turn it around. The up side to this is that you can see and hopefully enjoy the simplicity of this layout.

The main focus for me was of course the colors but the number of pictures on the layout. I have tons of photos and it feels great to be able to use multiple photos.

I also like using the accu-cut tags from Scrapbooks Plus for journaling. Im planning to add journaling to this layout and sort of have it hidden within the flowers.

Be sure to stop by Scrapbooks Plus to see all of the layouts in person and get more ideas for your pages.

Wednesday, May 9, 2012

Wednesday Make and Take

Come in to Scrapbooks-Plus today and get the supplies to make this week's Make and Take!! This layout features Bo Bunny's Serenity Collection.  This is the perfect layout to document your Washington, DC Cherry Blossom photos!

Tuesday, May 8, 2012

I Love Flowers!


I had a lot of fun working with the Basic Grey Plumeria collection on this page!  I was really surprised at how well it came together.  My paper distressing got a little out of hand, so I took advantage of the tears by putting lace underneath to soften the page – I really like how it turned out!  I LOVE the purples in this line which allow the other bright colors to come out without being too loud!  Add in some of the awesome embellishments available with this collection and it is finished.  

Saturday, May 5, 2012

Want to learn more about Copic markers?



Join us for our Copic Marker Card class for beginners and experienced users.  The class is designed for beginners and will feature basic instruction on Copic Markers, compatible inks and papers and basic blending techniques.  All of the images are stamped for you so you can focus on practicing your coloring skills.  There are three cards that we'll complete during the class including the fun stand-up sunflower card!  The class is Sunday, May 20th from 1:00-3:00 pm.  Call Scrapbooks-Plus today to register!

Friday, May 4, 2012

Photographers!


I really enjoyed working with the Basic Grey Plumeria paper line!  I found that the papers and embellishments included in the May Scrapbooks-Plus Design Team kit were fabulous and came together very nicely!  I used pictures from our visit to the National Cherry Blossom Festival last year.  I love how the tones in the papers really helped bring out the pictures!  I didn't use any special techniques while doing this page other than some inking and distressing!  Stop by Scrapbooks-Plus and check out all the layouts and items our talented Design Team put together for you!

Thursday, May 3, 2012

Stenciling






First, I'd like to thank Beth for coordinating her DT kit with my daughter's Easter dress this year! ;)

I liked the pale pretty colors of this Basic Grey line, but I decided to add an accent color with some brighter purple paint.  I used Adirondack paint dabbers in purple twilight, along with a Crafter's Workshop stencil and loose floral stamp.

To use paint with a stencil I used a cheap cosmetic sponge. I bought a bag of these at Target for less than $1.50.  This lets you get better control over the amount of paint you're using than a brush and helps keep the paint from seeping under the stencil.

I used the same sponge to dab paint onto my stamp. It's easy to stamp with paint -- just make sure you immediately wash your stamp! You don't want to paint to dry on the stamp.

And it doesn't really show in the picture, but if you look closely at the background paper in my layout you'll notice that I used another stencil - the Crafter's Workshop reverse chicken wire -- on the background with white paint. It's a subtle effect, but it adds a bit more pattern to the background.


Wednesday, May 2, 2012

Dreaming of Disney?

If you are dreaming of Disney pull out those photos and head on over to Scrapbooks-Plus today!  Limited quantities are available of this fun Disney layout that I created for the Wednesday layout.  The layout features the new Queen & Co. papers and embellishments.  If you haven't seen the new line yet, Queen & Co. has matching chipboard, cardstock stickers, washi tape, buttons and fun Twinkle Goosebumps!  The free item included when you purchase the other items for this layout is the red Mickey head on the bottom right of the layout that can be used for journaling.


Head on over today to pick up your supplies as this one will go fast- everyone loves Disney!!  

Tuesday, May 1, 2012

Basic Grey, Plumeria

Basic Grey, Plumeria         

This month’s Design Team papers are from one of my favorite paper companies, Basic Grey. This line has several different
patterns, colors, and shades that go great together; purples, greens, yellows, and orange.  All of which allow you to create many different, elegant, and exquisite layouts.  This line has lots of embellishments to choose from; element sticker sheets, alphabet stickers, chipboard shapes and alpha’s, layered stickers, mixed brads, layered trims, and diecut & trim transparencies. 
The papers come in the 12x12 size along with the 6x6 paper pad, which I find a must for layering.  Scrapbooks Plus carries the individual 12x12 sheets, 6x6 paper pads and the collection pack which comes with all the beautiful plumeria papers along with an element sticker sheet and the alphabet sticker sheet.  You will find it so easy to create beautiful layouts with these papers, but if you need any additional inspiration make sure you check out our samples in the store and the blog throughout the month.  Stop into the store soon and get your supplies to create some beautiful layouts using this paper line.