Creative Yearnings

More Inky Antic FUn

2012-01-18T22:48:00.001-06:00

After my guest design post on Inky Antic's Blog Sunday Karen's petal card , they received an inquiry about how I created the flower embellishment using the image from 11013SC Brushed Calligraphy #2 Clear Set (which is 10124J Coneflower in the wood mounted version):

I stamped it on double-thick kraft paper and then used watercolors. I then brushed a coat of Clearsnap Glue Gloss on top and sprinkled glitter Clearsnap's Fairy Dust glitter by Donna Salazar over it. (Next time, she said she might try lightweight cardstock behind kraft paper so she can really bend and adjust the petals and leaves.
I was then ask to tell us more about my creative process in general...

What have you learned as you’ve evolved as a designer? In other words, what advice or tips can you share with our readers for helping them improve?
Be free, be yourself, and do not be afraid to be different. There are no rules when it comes to art and you do not need a pattern...let it come from the heart.

What is one area that you are trying to improve in your own creative style, techniques, or process? [Finding] time to really create what I love...using unusual things, trying to find things outside the box that inspire me.

What’s your current favorite stamping technique?
I love using ink that can be used on plastic and making my own overlays.

What are your top 5-10 tools that you rely on most when you create (besides stamps, of course)?
Twisters, cosmetic sponges, popsicle sticks (yes, I save my Bomp Pop sticks so I have an endless supply), emery boards, and pinking shears!

Where do you find inspiration for your stamping projects?
Everywhere…fabric, ads, home decor items, and just life in general.

Is there anything else you’d like to tell our blog readers?
Have fun. Remember, rules are meant to be broken...think outside of the box. This is where the next great techniques come from, but most of all enjoy [the process]!

* * *

The stamps that I used for this week's project are from 11020SC Hearts Valentine Clear Set:

I also created this gorgeous vintage-style Valentine card:

Earlier I had mentioned stamping on plastic and making my own overlays. You can see them a little better in this close-up:

I stamped on a clear overhead projector sheet with permanent ink, and then I painted the back of it white with a Clearsnap reinker for the ColorBox Mix'd Media Inx by Donna Salazar. I love how it made the images really "pop."

I hope you enjoyed this fun Stamp Project I did as Guest Designer from Inky Antics.

Until Next Time......BE Creative~

Karen

Inky Antic's Guest Designer for the first month of 2012!!

2012-01-10T10:57:00.001-06:00

Brushed Calligraphy ............I'm so pleased to be the Inky Guest Designer for January:

http://inkyanticsrubberstamps.blogspot.com/

and their wonderful stamp store

http://www.inkyantics.com/

Although I do make some cards, more often I creates altered art and 3D projects that show off my love of "all things vintage and old."

Want to see an example? One of the sets I used was 11014SC Brushed Calligraphy #3 Clear Set:

Here's the project I created with these stamps:

This is a tribute to my dear grandmother.

For instance, at first glance you might spot the butterflies that are beautifully layered and embellished with pearl and rhinestone bling: From Want2Scrap.

Speaking of layers, that's real sheet music...on the left, inked around the torn edges and on the right, passed through a paper crimper to add texture.

Did you notice the teal-colored vintage seam binding that was artfully arranged above the saying? I also used it as the stem that forms the base of her glittered paper flowers:

I asked I would describe my stamping style in five words or less, I would said "Artist out of the box!"

I just want to be free. NO boundaries, just to create with my heart...in doing that, I come up with different and fun ways to use stamps, nothing is off limits"

I want to reminding you: "Have fun. Remember, rules are meant to be broken...think outside of the box. This is where the next great techniques come from, but most of all, enjoy [the process]!

Besides the wonderful Stamp set for Inky Antic I used:

Want2Scrap: Chipboard Embellishments - Pack of 4- Style B , Beautiful Bling Strips - White Pearl/Silver Rhinestones - Pair, and Swirls, Finesse - Black Rhinestones - 2 Pack - Self Adhesive

Clearsnap: Glue Gloss, Archival Dye Full Size Inkpad Wicked black and Fairy Dust Glitter by Donna Salazar

Paper: Antiquities: Donna Salazar for GCD Studios

Until next time...BE CREATIVE!

"Some how I have to keep all the ideas from coming out at once".

Karen Taylor

Faber Castell and Helmar Week Artful Fun!

2011-12-16T10:21:00.000-06:00

Good morning everyone! I am here today to share a card made using Faber Castell and Helmar Adhesive.

I used the followeing Faber Castell Products:

Color Gelatos & Clear Stamp: RED/YELLOW

#770152 -

Mixed Media Aquarelle & Ink: NEUTRAL

Helmar Crackle Medium (Step 1 and 2)

Sizes - 3.38 fl. oz. and 8.45 fl. oz.

Mediums- paper, wood, glass, plastics, metal ceramics and more. Refer to Helmar Adhesives Easy Selection Chart.

Instructions:

Always test before use.
Make sure surfaces to be adhered are clean & dry
Using a soft brush apply Helmar Crackle Step 1 over the entire surfact to be treated and allow to dry. Helmr Step 1 will remain tacky to touch after drying. Drying time approximately 10-20 minutes.
Liberally apply Helmar Crackle Step 2 with a soft brush. A little bit of experimenting with the thickness of the coat will be required to create your desired crackle effect.
Leave to dry overnight.
To highlight crack wipe the surface with a small amount of ink/linseed oil. Gently wipe away excess color leaving the pigment behind in the cracks.

Dry Time - Step 1 10-20 minutes. Leave Step 2 to dry overnight.
Helmar Products are ACMI certified to ensure our products are the safest they can be.
Type of Jar -Remember to close and tighten after use to avoid drying.
Where you can purchase it - List of Helmar Preferred Retailers on Blog: www.helmarusa.typepad.com (left side)
Wholesale retailers contact - info@helmarusa.com
Tips: Can speed up dry time on Step 1 with heat gun but be careful not to overheat or you will get bubbling. We recommend letting Step 2 air dry. It's a product you will want to experiment with to find out what else it can do!

AND

Helmar 450 Quick Dry

Sizes - 1.7 and 4.23 fl. oz..

Mediums- Fabrics, leathers, ribbon, rick rack, sheer fabrics, flowers, buttons, embellishments. Refer to Helmar Adhesives Easy Selection Chart.

Instructions:

Make sure to Remove Foil Seal upon initial opening.
Always test before use.
Make sure surfaces to be adhered are clean & dry
Apply an even coat of glue over entire surface to be adhered.
Carefully wipe any glue residue off using a gum eraser or damp cloth.

Dry Time - Quick Drying.
Helmar Products are ACMI certified to ensure our products are the safest they can be.
Clean up -With most solvents if glue is still wet, soak with water using a damp cloth and wipe. Comes off as anon sticky opague gum.
Where you can purchase it - List of Helmar Preferred Retailers on Blog: www.helmarusa.typepad.com (left side)
Wholesale retailers contact - info@helmarusa.com
Tips: Nice thin, even layer is key. Dries clear, and sets quickly.
Precautions - Do not smoke when using. Keep away from eyes. Avoid contace with heat sparks an open flames.
Twist Top - Twist to open and twist top to close.

And with these products I created this card: FIRST CLASS

Remember to always be a first class person!

All my life I had been looking for something, and everywhere I turned someone tried to tell me what it was. I accepted their answers too, though they were often in contradiction and even self-contradictory. I was naïve. I was looking for myself and asking everyone except myself questions which I, and only I, could answer. It took me a long time and much painful boomeranging of my expectations to achieve a realization everyone else appears to have been born with: that I am nobody but myself. ~Ralph Ellison, "Battle Royal"

I also used the following products to created this card: Kraft Paper by The Paper Studio, Patterned Paper by My Minds Eye, Blind and Chipboard Elements by Want2Scrap, Brass Stencil and Flower by Maya Roads

Visit Faber Castell Blog at

http://designmemorycraft.typepad.com/design-memory-craft/

Join Support Faber Castell on Facebook

http://www.facebook.com/DesignMemoryCraft?sk=wall#!/DesignMemoryCraft

Karen Taylor
www.creativeyearnings.blogspot.com
Come and Join me at:

2011-12-11T22:53:00.000-06:00

Mixed Media Holiday Greeting

by Karen Taylor

Supply List:

Paper: Donna Salazar Designs

Mixed Media Inx, embossing powder, Fairy Dust Glitter, Emboss Gloss and Smooch Spritz: By Donna Salazar for Clearsnap

Die Cut Machine (Grand Calibur) and Holiday Tree Die Template

Bling and Nestabling: Want2Scrap

Stamp: Heartfelt Creation

Corrigated Cardboard: Zutter

Stencil Template: Crafters Workshop

Adhesive: Helmar 450 Quick Dry and V2 Vellum Adhesive

Step One:

Using Spellbinders Grand Calibu die cut two trees. Cover stamp with embossing ink and stamp on trees.

Step Two:

Cover embossing ink with embossing power and heat with heat gun until melted.

Step Four:

Spray Corrigated Cardboard that has top layer of paper removed with Spritz.

Step Four:

Ink edges of the cardboard.

Step Five:

Ink and glitter paper doily.

Step Six:

Stencil cardboard with ink.

Step Seven:

Spray cardboard through stencil with vellum adhesive and sprinkle on glitter.

Step Eight:

Layer on doily edges, sentiment cut from paper and embossed tree.

Step Nine:

Add bling to tree and edges and Nestabling for the finishing accents.

Step Ten:

Enjoy the smile on your friends face when you give it to them as a gift!

Peace Holiday Tags Staring Donna Salazar Designs

2011-12-05T18:19:00.000-06:00

PEACE TAGS featuring DONNA SALAZAR DESIGNS

Let there be peace on earth And let it begin with me.

Let there be peace on earth The peace that was meant to be.

With God as our father Brothers all are we.

Let me walk with my brother In perfect harmony.

Let peace begin with me Let this be the moment now.

With every step I take Let this be my solemn vow.

To take each moment And live each moment With peace eternally.

Let there be peace on earth, And let it begin with me.

Let there be peace on earth And let it begin with me.

Let there be peace on earth The peace that was meant to be.

With God as our father Brothers all are we.

Let me walk with my brother In perfect harmony.

Let peace begin with me Let this be the moment now.

With every step I take Let this be my solemn vow.

To take each moment And live each moment In peace eternally.

Let there be peace on earth And let it begin with me.

No matter your beliefs we all know the importance of peace, inner peace, peace with those around us and call me a hopeless optimist...world peace.

So today I share PEACE with you.

How I find
Peace

How can it be that a small piece of cardstock speaks so deeply to so many people to inspire them to create and release their souls on these small pieces of cardstock with a hole in the top meant for labeling something. I sometimes think the fact that it was meant to be a label is one of the reasons it is so appealing for me to take it and turn it into what is was never intended for..... anything but "a label".

I live in a small southwest Missouri town. Like in every community across this country there are so many labels that are put on a person to define who they are. Whether it is who or what they are at all. Many hide their true identity from those around afraid of ridicule or being label with a term that once again is something that they are not.

I love that I can release those inner feeling of my true self onto these mini pieces of art.
Someone looking at one of my tags might see the wings in the corner of the tag and think it has to do with the bird cage at the bottom and my hand written sentiment of "Fly ...Fly High" and think I am speaking of a bird when I am really talking of myself and my fears being locked away in a cage and my longing to release those fears and being able to fly free...of course not literally but release myself from the labels I feel that restrain me.

I am ME....just Me....a creator who would like to be a superhero, who love quotes because they touch my soul, who loves to create flowers simply because those flowers make me smile. I love the color red while most female around me love pink. I have travels to take, adventures to enjoy and some to endure but each will bring with it a life lesson that I hope my heart is open to listen to. That is why I release myself on paper. It is there that I can be me and able to open up my heart so all the lessons that life has to given me and I can not only break labels but shatter them from those around me and....myself as well. I want to live my life open and free and the tags I create one at a time allow me to open myself to the world. As people look at my different pieces of art I really want them to get a glimpse of me, maybe not the whole picture. There are the things that I will always keep deep in my heart that will come out in symbols in my art but with the words I write and the quotes I choose, the emotions that come out that they will KNOW with out a doubt that I am a true unique individual, that I choose not to be like the crowd.

That I choose to live life with an optimism that things are good. That I care for all things and work every day to find inner peace and to be less judgmental. And to those who have none I hope to try and bring some peace to their hearts.

"Peace is not something you wish for; It's something you make, Something you do, Something you are, And something you give away." Robert Fulghum

My tag today is PEACE

You will clearly see that, but above all I will share some of my soul today with you. This DOES not happen often. In the last couple of years there have been many changes in my life. We all have this happen. I was unhappy with this until I realized I needed to find peace. That with change things would be different but I had to find the peace in my new life and in everything around me.
If we would all strive for an inner peace and I know that is a lot to ask, but this world would be a better place forever.

So I wish to those who's make the choice to be unkind to others I wish them peace.

To those have to battle health issues I wish them peace.

To those who are battling each other... at war with someone different than them because of their beliefs, where they live or because of the way they look, I wish them peace.

"Let us forgive each other - only then will we live in peace" Leo Nikolaevich Tolstoy

During this season of joy we can have HOPE, WISH AND BELIEVE in PEACE.

AND then it will truly be a Merry Christmas for all!

For My Tags I used:

Donna Salazar Designs:

1. Artsy Christmas Cards

2. Weathered Mosaics

3. Antiquities by GCD Studio's

4. Destress-it-All by Zutter

5. Clearsnap Smooch Spritz

There are 8 colors that you can buy in a pack or individually:

Pralines & Cream, Caramel Latte, Sea Breeze, Green Olive, Tea Party,

River Mossy, Wood Stain & Mixed Berries

and the 3 newest Holly Berry, Candle Light and Evergreen

6. Mixed Media Inx

I also used Want2Scrap: Bling and Chipboard Shapes

Paper Doily

Helmar 450 Quick Dry

Misc. Ribbon and Mini Alpha's

Thanks for joining me today.....and until next time....BE CREATIVE!

A Vintage Christmas by Candle Light Featuring Helmar Fabric Stiffener and Draping Liquid

2011-12-02T18:56:00.000-06:00

A Vintage Candlelite Christmas

For my project today I used Helmar Fabric Stiffener and Draping Liquid. What fun adhesive it is!

I took old jars and put the Helmar Fabric Stiffener and Draping Liquid on the doily until it was "damp" I then just wrapped the jar with the doily and crochet thread and added a little bling and misc. ribbons to finish.

the jars off. I Put battery operated batteries in the jars and sat back and enjoyed the glow! I will be

making many more of these fun candle jars.

Supplies

Helmar Fabric Stiffener and Draping Liquid
Doilys
Want2Scrap: Bling
Larger thread
Misc. Lace and Trim

Heartfelt Blog Hop! Holiday Greetings

2011-11-29T07:00:00.004-06:00

This fun November Blog Hop is by Heartfelt Design Team Alumni....and one lucky visitor who leaves a comment will win a 25.00 Gift Certificate!! Make sure you leave a way to be contacted!

Make sure to visit all the designers and see their creations!

Dina http://mamadinis.blogspot.com

Selma http://selmasstampingcorner.blogspot.com/

Karen Taylor http://www.creativeyearnings.blogspot.com YOU ARE HERE

Olga http://craftieodamae.blogspot.com/

Tesa http://tesasscrap.blogspot.com

Clare http://clarespaperworks.blogspot.com/

Marsha http://stampingdownsouth.blogspot.com/

Carla http://www.carlasstampingspot.blogspot.com/

Debbie http://www.debbieseyer.com/my_weblog/

Linda http://paynehollercards.blogspot.com

Today I am sharing a Christmas Card....but did you ever wonder.....

Did you ever wonder who sent the first Christmas Card?

A relatively recent phenomenon, the sending of commercially printed Christmas cards originated in London in 1843.

Previously, people had exchanged handwritten holiday greetings. First in person. Then via post. By 1822, homemade Christmas cards had become the bane of the U.S. postal system. That year, the Superintendent of Mails in Washington, D.C., complained of the need to hire sixteen extra mailmen. Fearful of future bottlenecks, he petitioned Congress to limit the exchange of cards by post, concluding, "I don’t know what we’ll do if it keeps on."

Not only did it keep on, but with the marketing of attractive commercial cards the postal burden worsened. The first Christmas card designed for sale was by London artist John Calcott Horsley.

Who sent the first
Christmas card?

A respected illustrator of the day, Horsley was commissioned by Sir Henry Cole, a wealthy British businessman, who wanted a card he could proudly send to friends and professional acquaintances to wish them a "merry Christmas." Sir Henry Cole was a prominent innovator in the 1800s. He modernized the British postal system, managed construction of the Albert Hall, arranged for the Great Exhibition in 1851, and oversaw the inauguration of the Victoria and Albert Museum. Most of all, Cole sought to "beautify life," and in his spare time he ran an art shop on Bond Street, specializing in decorative objects for the home. In the summer of 1843, he commissioned Horsley to design an impressive card for that year’s Christmas.
Horsley produced a triptych. Each of the two side panels depicted a good deed-clothing the naked and feeding the hungry. The centerpiece featured a party of adults and children, with plentiful food and drink (there was severe criticism from the British Temperance Movement).
The first Christmas card’s inscription read: "merry Christmas and a happy New Year to you." "Merry" was then a spiritual word meaning "blessed," as in "merry old England." Of the original one thousand cards printed for Henry Cole, twelve exist today in private collections.
Printed cards soon became the rage in England; then in Germany. But it required an additional thirty years for Americans to take to the idea. In 1875, Boston lithographer Louis Prang, a native of Germany, began publishing cards, and earned the title "father of the American Christmas card."
Prang’s high-quality cards were costly, and they initially featured not such images as the Madonna and Child, a decorated tree, or even Santa Claus, but colored floral arrangements of roses, daisies, gardenias, geraniums, and apple blossoms. Americans took to Christmas cards, but not to Prang’s; he was forced out of business in 1890. It was cheap penny Christmas postcards imported from Germany that remained the vogue until World War 1. By war’s end, America’s modern greeting card industry had been born.
Today more than two billion Christmas cards are exchanged annually, just within the United States. Christmas is the number one card-selling holiday of the year.

Holiday Card:

Patterned Paper: My Minds Eye: Holly Jolly and Lost and Found

Cardstock: White

Stamp: Heartfelt Creations: Innoscents Flowers 2 Pre Cut Set Product ID: HCPC 2242, Innoscents Flowers 1 Pre Cut Set Product ID: HCPC 2241, Golden Rule Supply: GRS 150

Die Cut Machine and Dies: Spellbinders Paper Arts: Grand Calibur™.  Product #GC-001, Blossom Two Product #S4-232, Big Scalloped Border Grand Product #S7-018

Score Board: Scor- it-all

Ink: Clearsnap: Archival Dye Full Size Inkpad Wicked black, ColorBox Fluid Chalk Inkpad Chestnut Roan and Dark Moss

Ribbon: Offray

Adhesive: Helmar 450 Quick Dry

Misc. Vintage buttons thread and Pin Back

To make the

Card:

Make card from card stock and ink edges
Cut printed panel slightly smaller than card, ink edges and attach to card
Cut grand scalloped border from paper using Grand Calibur and cut to fit edges of patterned paper ink and adhere.
Cut strip of paper and score it ever line. Ink and adhere to edge of grand scalloped cut die
Stamp the three middle size flowers out of red patterned paper and stamp one of the largest out of notebook print paper.
Using scissors cut out back petals
Ink large notebook paper flower Dark Green and all the red flowers with Chestnut Roan.
Place large red on top of green and adhere with Beacon Zip Dry alternating as you adhere largest to smallest.
Tie Vintage button with thread and adhere to flower center with Zip Dry.
Adhere ribbon behind flower and attach to card.
Stamp sentiment on cardstock and cut out. Adhere stamped sentiment to patterned paper, cut out and attach to side of flower as shown.

Thank you so much for join us today. Please leave a comment for your chance to win and PLEASE leave a way to contact you! Don't want you to miss out! Hop Ends Friday Dec 2nd at Midnight Eastern

I would love for you to follow me here and Please let be friends!

http://www.facebook.com/messages/?action=read&tid=pMGRIdEj3EavTJ%2FnG8ghgQ#!/karentaylor1111

Have a fantastic day and until next time......be creative!

Karen Taylor

Want2Scrap Design Team Coordinator

Donna Salazar Design Team

Helmar Design Team

Scrapbook News and Review Staff

A Merry Helmar Wreath

2011-11-18T14:16:00.000-06:00

With the holiday season upon us I am excited to share this fun project I created with Helmar products. A holiday wreath. I love putting my Christmas wreath up each year after making it and making one that can last year to year with some paper, a yard sale wreath and some of Helmar’s wonderful Adhesive seems so perfect,,,,,,but do you ever wonder why we put wreaths up during the holidays?

The term "Wreath", curiously enough, is linked to our word "Wrist", with both terms forming a continuous physical circular shape. It also came from Middle English's "wrethe", meaning a twisted band or ring of leaves or flowers in a garland.

Wreaths have been used symbolically for centuries. The circle or ring shape is symbolic of eternity or eternal life, because the shape has no beginning or end. Back in ancient Rome, this symbol became so powerful that people used decorative wreaths as a sign of victory. Some believe that this is where the hanging of wreaths on doors came from.

Putting plants into the symbolic circular shape symbolizes the strength of life overcoming the forces of winter. Wreaths and other decorations during long winters often consisted of whatever natural materials looked attractive at this bleak time of year. People used candles, fires, evergreens, hollies, berries, and forced blossoms to hold on to the promise of spring.

A Brief History of Holly and the Christmas Wreath

The ancient Druids are the first society in known history to have worn sprigs of holly and mistletoe. These priests of yesteryear believed that holly, with its glossy, shiny prickly leaves of green adorned with red berries, remained green all year due to their magical properties. The Druids considered Holly sacred. Many speculate the holly berries have given us our green and red colors of Christmas.

Holly and Berries, often used to make Christmas Wreaths

Combining the symbolism of the wreath with the believed magical powers of Holly, the Romans exchanged Holly Wreaths as gifts. Once Christianity took hold in Rome, Holly Wreaths became Christmas Wreaths as part of popular holiday decorations, but mistletoe was considered "pagan" because of its mystic properties. In fact, in 575 A.D., a German Catholic Bishop forbade all Christmas greens and condemned them as "dangerous and heathen". Churches did not see their likeness again for centuries.

In the 16th century, the word "Holly" appeared in writing for the first time, used by Shakespeare. By the 17th century, holly had become a grander part of Christmas celebrations, the Christmas Wreath, and holiday decorations once again. The shape of the wreath symbolized the crown of thorns put atop the head of Jesus Christ, as well as the resurrection and eternal life. Holly and Christmas Wreaths came to stand for peace, joy, and contentment.

To add color to Christmas Wreaths, colonists used pomegranates and other colorful fruits. Pomegranates, in particular, indicated wealth. Other items used to decorate Christmas Wreaths include seashells from nearby beaches, pinecones, and imported items. The colonists celebrated the Christmas season for 12 consecutive days (this is where we get the "12 Days of Christmas"). At the end of the 12th day, on January 5th, the homeowners took down their Christmas Wreaths and other holiday decorations. They removed the fruit and added them to the holiday feast, enjoying the bounty of summer in the heart of winter.

I love learning the history of things we just take for granted and to find their origins. I puts a smile on my face to know how long that wreaths have been used as a decoration during this festive season of giving.

I started by cutting out using the Spellbinders Paper Arts Grand Calibur pile of Rose and Carnation Creations die flowers and leaves by Donna Salazar for Spellbinders.

I “fluffed” a wreath that I bought at a yard sale for .25.

I inked the flowers with Clearsnap Mixed Media Inx in Leather. For to make the leaves a pretty shade of antique green I used Clearsnap Moss Green ColorBox ink and the edges with Clearsnap Mixed Media Inx in Leather.

I brushed on Helmar Gemstone Glue and sprinkle Clearsnap’s Fairy Dust Glitter on the branches giving a frosted effect.

I sprayed the backs of the flowers with Clearsnap Smooch Spritz by Donna Salazar.

I adhered the layered flowers with Helmar Zapdots and a jingle bell in the center of each using Helmar Gemstone Glue.

I attached the flowers to the Wreath with Helmar’s 450 Quick Dry.

And did the same to the inked die cut leaves.

I think it would be the perfect hostess gift for Thanksgiving that could be used though out the Christmas season.

t==

Product Supply List

Helmar Zapdots

Helmar 450 Quick Dry

Helmar Gemstone Glue

Spellinder’s Paper Arts: Grand Calibur and the Rose and Carnations Creations Dies

Antiquities Paper by Donna Salazar for GCD Studios Clearsnap Fairy Du st Glitter, Mixed Media Inx and Smooch Spritz by Donna Salazar

With the upcoming holiday next week may I wish you a very Happy Thanksgiving! I can not wait to share my next project but until then…..BE CREATIVE!

Karen Taylor

"Christmas is not as much about opening our presents as opening our hearts." - Janice Maeditere

Star Light Star Bright with Want2Scrap

2011-11-14T08:00:00.017-06:00

Greetings on this wonderful Monday morning !

Today I want to share some fun ornaments, or they could be toppers for gifts that you can create this season.

This would be perfect for a teacher, friend, secret Santa gift, neighbor or even to adorn your own tree.

This is also a great project for girl scouts or to do with your own children for gifts for grandma's and grandpa's to cherish!

I remember at night in the summer looking to the sky and making my wish on that first star....how special a simple symbol is to us...it brings us hope and faith.....and a childhood since of wonder.

Twinkle Twinkle Little Star

Twinkle twinkle little star, how I wonder what you are?

Up above the world so high , like a diamond in the sky

When the blazing sun is gone, when he nothing shines upon,

Then you show your little light, twinkle, twinkle all the night.

Then the traveller in the dark, thanks you for your tiny spark,

He could not see which way to go, if you did not twinkle so.

In the dark blue sky you keep, and often through my curtains peep,

For you never shut your eye, 'till the sun is in the sky.

As your bright and tiny spark lights the traveller in the dark,

Though I know not what you are - twinkle, twinkle little star.

FOR MY STARS:

I started with Want2Scrap™ Nestabling and Nestaboard Stars Five, I used 2 packs of both and Spellbinders™ Grand Calibur™ and Stars Five Die template.

Using Christmas Paper by Donna Salazar I cut out a bunch of stars using the Grand Calibur.

I adhered paper to some of the stars and then inked the edges using Clearsnaps Mixed Media Inx by Donna Salazar.

I attached Nestabling to random stars.

Others I painted using Eco Green Paint

Inked the edges and added Clearsnap Fairy Dust Glitter by Donna Salazar. Sparkle stars...and some with bling.....things are looking SO pretty!

I then layered in random orders using plain die cut stars without Nestaboard and some with for added dimension.

Punched a hole in top and added ribbon and three jingle bells to each bows center.

I just love that each have a different look.....

depending on colors you use.....

the bling chosen.....

and how you stacked the paper stars with the Nestaboard stars....so different but all so beautiful!

I WILL be making more of these delightful stars to share with friends and loved ones during this holiday season. No matter your beliefs a star is always a symbol of hope and faith.

For my Project I used :
Want2Scrap:

Want2Scrap™ Nestabling and Nestaboard Stars Five

Cross Promotional Products:

Spellbinders Paper Arts: Grand Calibur and Stars Five Die Templates
Eco Green Crafts Paints

Other:

Paper, Clearsnap Mixed Media Inx and Fairy Dust glitter by Donna Salazar
Jingle bells, ribbon, vintage seam binding and wire

Until next time...BE CREATIVE!

Karen Taylor

http://www.creativeyearnigs.blogsspot.com

Christmas gift suggestions: To your enemy, forgiveness. To an opponent, tolerance. To a friend, your heart. To a customer, service. To all, charity. To every child, a good example. To yourself, respect."

~ Oren Arnold

Handmade Holidays Blog Hop!!! DAY 3

2011-11-06T01:47:00.000-05:00

Welcome to the Handmade Holidays Blog Hop!!!

To sweeten to Hop, we’re offering a gift for you! For every comment you leave on the blogs in the Hop, you’ll be entered to win a prize pack from one of the participating manufacturer sponsors!

Visit the list of blogs below and leave a comment on each by Nov 7, 2011 at 11:59 PM PST. Each day we will be sharing a brand new list of blogs with brand new projects for you to explore, be inspired by, and create from!

Nov 6
Clearsnap – http://clearsnap.blogspot.com/
Spellbinders http://www.spellbinderspaperarts.com/Community/Blog.aspx
Hampton Art - http://blog.hamptonart.com/
Zutter – http://binditall.blogspot.com/
Graphic45 – http://g45papers.typepad.com/
Donna Salazar Designs – http://donnasalazar.typepad.com/
The Twinery - http://www.thetwineryblog.com/
Authentique Paper http://authentiquepaper.blogspot.com/
Glue Arts - http://gluearts.blogspot.com/
Sabrina Alery – Clearsnap http://sabrinaalery.blogspot.com/
Laura Denison – Graphic 45 http://www.followingthepapertrail.blogspot.com/
Karen Taylor – Donna Salazar Designs - http://creativeyearnings.blogspot.com/ YOU ARE HERE
Beverly Sizemore – Hampton Art http://bevscreativepath.blogspot.com/
Kazan Clark – Spellbinders http://nunutoolies.blogspot.com/
Janeen Shember – Authentique Paper http://suburbngypsy.blogspot.com/
Charlotte Jenkins – Clearsnap http://suepup.blogspot.com/
Grace Hester – The Twinery http://gracehester.typepad.com/
Nicole Eccles – Graphic45 http://nicoleeccles.blogspot.com/
Audrey Pettit – Donna Salazar Designs - http://audreypettit.wordpress.com/
Nan Paturzo – Zutter http://scrappynan.blogspot.com/
Jeannie DeGruccio – Authentique Paper http://polkacabana.wordpress.com/
Tamara Tripodi - Glue Arts http://happylifecraftywife.com/
Julie Ranae Murray- The Twinery http://juliesopenwindow.blogspot.com/

For my frugal gift I created a Mini Journal to keep track of those little things that might be forgot and too wonderful to no keep in our memory. I believe keeping a journal does so much for us in out lives...not only does it let us preserve those precious moments but: Journaling and diary-keeping has been around for hundreds of years. In fact, through personal diaries we have been able to discover information about the creation of our country and government, as well as the people who lived during this time period. We have been able to learn about the lives of historical figures throughout the world. There is astonishing value in keeping a journal and if you read what you write, you may learn a lot about yourself as well. Through your journal you will experience the many benefits of writing on a regular basis. Here are several of the benefits that you will be able to experience.
ACHIEVING GOALS

A journal can help you to clarify your goals and will allow you to write about your achievements as well as your ideas. This allows you to see the steps that you have taken towards your goal and will allow you to see where you stand as well as how much further you have to go to complete your goals. Your goals may be simple tasks in life or they may be life goals that will take more time to achieve. Whatever goals you set for yourself, be sure that they are attainable and easily documented in your journal.
SIMPLIFYING LIFE

A journal or diary is very useful in helping to simplify your life. We tend to make life much more complicated than it needs to be. We have appointments, soccer practice with the kids and a million other things that we have to do on a daily basis. By carving out ten minutes of your day and taking the time to sit down with a pen and a piece of paper it is amazing at how you begin to see what is really important in life. You can also carve out a few minutes to type in a journal entry on a personal blog or even a simple and ongoing Word document. Take the time to describe your values, note your achievements and think of those things that you are grateful for in your life.
CLARIFY AND STRENGTHEN RELATIONSHIPS

Journals have amazing power and much of this power can be seen through your personal relationships. Journaling allows you to take the time you need to express your feelings about your life and relationships. Journaling also allows you a private place to vent about any frustrations you have with your relationships. Journaling allows you to see why you might be bothered by certain aspects of a person and even how you might be able to change how you handle certain situations. They can also teach you to love more powerfully and with more conviction. There are various aspects to relationships, and your journal can allow you to see what changes you can make to your strengthen your relationships.
LEARN ABOUT YOURSELF

Socrates was a firm believer in know thyself. A journal allows you to do just that. You can talk about your morals, values and other beliefs. This allows you to clarify what you think about on certain topics as well as express yourself more clearly. If anybody has ever asked you about a specific topic or controversy and what you think about it, you will be able to easily spout off a clear opinion in a matter of seconds. You will present yourself as a person who knows themself well.
BECOMING A BETTER COMMUNICATOR

Journaling can also aid in making you a better writer. Many people could easily be better writers if they spent a few minutes a day working on it. Even when you write about personal information you are able to strengthen your skills. You are also able to strengthen your grammar, vocabulary and get you through a moment of writer's block you are experiencing. It can also be a place to write down any new words or ideas you might have to write about. Clear communication allows you to provide a powerful image and offers the utmost in personal expression.

So when giving a journal you not only give a gift you give SO Much more!

I created my journal using Donna Salazar Die Templates: Creative Pages 2 and Fanciful Flight by Spellbinders Paper Arts.

I used Donna Salazar Designs Trunk In The Attic Paper Collection which was PERFECT for this project and the meaning Donna had when making it made even more right!

I enhanced the pages and the beauty of the Creative Page 2 Die set by adding Donna Salazar Designs: Smooch Spritz, Fairy Dust Glitter and Mixed Media all for Donna by Clearsnap.

I added extra texture and held it together with Zutter's Bind it All and 7 x 7 Corrugated Cardboard. And finished it off with lots of Want2crap bling! I know someone who will be happy on Christmas Morning and for years to come when they look back at a gift I made in 2011 and their adventures in 2012!

Products Used:
Donna Salazar Die Templates: Creative Pages 2 and Fanciful Flight by Spellbinders Paper Arts
Donna Salazar Designs Trunk In The Attic Paper Collection
Zutter's Bind it All and 7 x 7 Corrugated Cardboard
Want2Scrap: Bling and Nestaboard
Cheers to creating gifts from the heart this holiday season!

THANKS SO MUCH FOR JOINING US!

Happy Hopping!

UNTIL NEXT TIME BE CREATIVE!

Karen Taylor
Come and lets be friends!
http://www.facebook.com/#!/karentaylor1111

One last Goodie from being Helmar's October Guest Designer

2011-11-05T00:47:00.000-05:00

Once again it is Karen Taylor and I was so thrilled to join Helmar last month as their guest designer.

Today I am going to share a quick, fun and cute project that will make anyone office or kitchen bulletin board look fantastic!

EVEY ONE is making rolled flowers and that is what I did. I adhered mine with Helmar 450 Quick Dry Adhesive and then painted Gemstone Adhesive on a floral leave from the floral department at a local craft store and sprinkled with glitter.

I adhered the leaf and push pin with Helmar Gemstone Glue and I was done....like I said quick, fun and cute!

Great gift for a girlfriend or co-worker.....or with the holiday almost here how about a secret Santa gift!

We all need beauty in our lives....make some! Until next time. BE CREATIVE!

For this project I used:

Helmar 450 Quick Adhesive and Gemstone Glue

Patterned Paper Best Creations

Misc: Leaves and Glitter (craft store)

Be sure to check out ALL the fantastic projects made with Helmar products!

The world is a rose; smell it and pass it to your friends."
- Persian Proverb

Karen Taylor

Creative Yearnings

Karen Taylor

Day One Holiday Blog Hop!!

2011-11-04T03:14:00.000-05:00

Welcome to the Handmade Holidays Blog Hop!!!

Calling all crafters! We’ve gathered designers from some of our favorite manufacturers to show you ways to create something from the heart this holiday season. This 3 day Hop includes over 60 stops with inspiration brimming from every corner. Explore all thoughtful and frugal handmade gifts you could make for the holidays, all in one place on this Hop!

To sweeten to Hop, we’re offering a gift for you! For every comment you leave on the blogs in the Hop, you’ll be entered to win a prize pack from one of the participating manufacturer sponsors!

Make sure to check out all the wonderful Hoppers and come back the next 2days to see the resest of all the wonderful creation!

ENJOY!

Nov 4
Clearsnap – http://clearsnap.blogspot.com
Spellbinders http://www.spellbinderspaperarts.com/Community/Blog.aspx
Hampton Art - http://blog.hamptonart.com/
Zutter – http://binditall.blogspot.com/
Graphic45 – http://g45papers.typepad.com/
Donna Salazar Designs – http://donnasalazar.typepad.com/
The Twinery - http://www.thetwineryblog.com/
Authentique Paper http://authentiquepaper.blogspot.com/
Glue Arts - http://gluearts.blogspot.com/
Sherry Cheever – Graphic45 http://sherrycheever.blogs.splitcoaststampers.com/
Claire Towle– Hampton Art http://studio1975.co.uk
Emily Leiphart- The Twinery http://www.leiphartonart.blogspot.com/
Andrea Budjack – Glue Arts http://andreascreativepapertrail.blogspot.com/
Lesley Langdon – Spellbinders http://www.lesleylangdoncreative.blogspot.com/
Daniela Dobson – Clearsnap http://danieladobson.blogspot.com/
Natasha Naranjo Aguirre – Donna Salazar Designs- http://mymomentsoftranquility.blogspot.com
Lisa Day – Glue Arts - http://www.lisaday.typepad.com/
Lynne Forsythe – Zutter http://lynneforsythe.blogspot.com/
Jennifer Priest- Clearsnap http://hydrangeahippo.blogspot.com
Tifany DeGough – Authentique Paper http://inkblotsbytrd.blogspot.com/
Holly Simoni – Spellbinders http://www.hollysimoni.typepad.com/
Fleur Smith - Zutter http://fleursbydesign.blogspot.com/
Stephanie Johnson- The Twinery http://www.parkersprints.blogspot.com/
Robyn Weatherspoon – Clearsnap http://robynweatherspoon.blogspot.com/

Until next time be creative and join me tomorrow to show of some more of the fantastic creations and on Sunday when I will reveal my Holiday project!

Karen Taylor

My Daughter's Memories

2011-10-28T20:30:00.000-05:00

Good morning!!!

Karen Taylor here today to share an altered book with lots Wan2Scrap™ goodness. I made this for my daughter, who like most mom's and daughters we have had our ups and downs in our relationship. Mother and daughter relationships are complex because the daughter looks to her mother as a role model of what a woman is. As she grows up and sees other woman who live their lives differently, she chooses between imitating her mother or other significant influences in her life. As an adolescent she may come to look down on her mother and think that other woman are much better.

Of course she is not a fully grown woman so she does not understand the challenges and choices that her mother faces. It is only when she herself becomes a woman that she can fully appreciate her mother.

But through it all one thing has remains strong and that is LOVE. I want my daughter to have lots of memories in the future and remember how important it is to share those memories with those we love.

This is a fairly large book so I can only share some. I hope you enjoy.

Memory Altered Book: LOVE LOVE LOVE

Memory is a way of holding onto the things you love, the things you are, the things you never want to lose.

Memory... is the diary that we all carry about with us. ~Oscar Wilde

What we remember from childhood we remember forever - permanent ghosts, stamped, inked, imprinted, eternally seen. ~Cynthia Ozick

All Grown Up

You are all grown up as anyone can see.
A beautiful lady standing in front of me.
Spreading your wings and leaving the nest,
to see what’s out there for you at best.
Learning what works for you,
depends mostly upon yourself.
Trust in what you feel is right.
Always remember throughout your life,
I'll be here whenever you need it.
You're still my little girl,
even though you're an adult now.
You always be young to me All grown up in others eyes.
Still young as ever to me and will always be loved.

mother's love for her child is like
nothing else in the world. It knows no
law, no pity, it dares all things and crushes
down remorselessly all that stands in its path.

~ Agatha Christie

Other Products:

Media Inx and Smooch Spritz for Clearsnap

Zutter Bind it all

Ribbon, Lace, Old Book and Kraft Paper.

I hope you have a fantastic weekend an until next time.... be creative!

Birthday Card Memory Holder

2011-10-27T00:18:00.000-05:00

Hello again it is Karen Taylor here again with another Helmar guest designer post.

Today I will be sharing a Tutorial for making a Birthday card keeper that you can put all the cards you get in and make one...or give one as a gift each year so you always have them to look back on and remember the year that you received them.

Do you know how card giving was started?

The custom of sending greeting cards can be traced back to the ancient Chinese, who exchanged messages of good will to celebrate the New Year, and to the early Egyptians, who conveyed their greetings on papyrus scrolls. By the early 15th century, handmade paper greeting cards were being exchanged in Europe. The Germans are known to have printed New Year's greetings from woodcuts as early as 1400, and handmade paper Valentines were being exchanged in various parts of Europe in the early to mid-15th century, with the oldest Valentine in existence being in the British Museum.[2]

By the 1850s, the greeting card had been transformed from a relatively expensive, handmade and hand-delivered gift to a popular and affordable means of personal communication, due largely to advances in printing, mechanization, and a reduction in postal rates with the introduction of the postage stamp.[3] This was followed by new trends like Christmas cards, the first of which appeared in published form in London in 1843 when Sir Henry Cole hired artist John Calcott Horsley to design a holiday card that he could send to his friends and acquaintances. In the 1860s, companies like Marcus Ward & Co, Goodall and Charles Bennett began the mass production of greeting cards. They employed well known artists such as Kate Greenaway and Walter Crane as illustrators and card designers.

Technical developments like color lithography in 1930 propelled the manufactured greeting card industry forward. Humorous greeting cards, known as studio cards, became popular in the late 1940s and 1950s.

In the 1970s Recycled Paper Greetings, a small company needing to establish a competing identity against the large companies like Hallmark Cards, began publishing humorous "whimsical" card designs with the artist's name credited on the back. This was away from what was known as the standard look (sometimes called the Hallmark look.)[citation needed] By the 1980s there was a thriving market for what were now called "alternative" greeting cards, and the name stuck even though these "alternative" cards changed the look of the entire industry.

The largest recorded number of greeting cards sent to a single person went to Craig Shergold, an early beneficiary/victim of an Internet chain mail.

During the 1980s, the trend began to turn, with consumers increasing looking for greeting cards that were differentiated from the standard offering. In the late 1990s the market was clearly beginning to separate in to three different segments:

•handmade and premium cards

•mass-manufactured cards

•e-cards

Common cardmaking materials include: cardstock, stencils, markers, vellum, tissue paper, glue, rulers and t-squares, rickrack, foil, sequins, beads, ribbon, and more.

Other materials that can be used in cardmaking are brads, eyelets, tea bag medallions, and buttons. Brads can be used to hold the four corners of one piece of cardstock on top of another to create a layered effect. Eyelets can be used to draw a piece of string or ribbon from one side of the card to another. Tea bag medallions are a type of origami that makes a wonderful decoration for the front of a card. Pretty shaped buttons make nice additions to a design that is stamped on the card.

BUT we all know a thing or too about the above!!

I love to look back at my old cards and now my new especially since I receive so many beautiful hand made one. TREASURES all of them. When I read a card from ten years ago it STILL puts a smile on my face~

To make my card holder:

I cut a piece of 8 1/2 x 11 Kraft paper in half and a piece of patterned paper to 8 x 5.

I inked all edges.

I adhered the patterned paper to one piece of the Kraft paper with Helmars Clear Zapdots and the two pieces of Kraft papers together on the very edge leaving one long edge open,

I then cut out a border using Spellbinder Edgeabilities die out of coordinating patterned paper.

I then adhered it to to the back top and bottom and front top and bottom of the Kraft paper with Helmar 450 Quick Dry adhesive making sure not to get glue on the upper scallops so it will still have an unglued opening,

I then added "Happy Birthday" to front and "cardkeeper" with mini alphas.

I cut some Spellbinder dies by Donna Salazar (Rose Creations) out of old dictionary and adhered with Helmar Craft Glue as I stacked them...I then brushed Helmar Gemstone Glue on the flowers.

I sprinkled them with Fairy Dust Glitter by Donna Salazar and put a dot of the Helmar Gemstone Glue in center and added a Want2Scrap bling in red to the center of the flowers.

With only a small amount of Helmar's Gemstone glue left in this bottle : (

Wait it gets happy ...I put glitter in the bottle.

Mixed and painted the glittered glue on my leaves!!

Told you it was a happy ending : )

I then added the finishing touches along with some wonderful Birthday cards and smiled as I pulled each one out and read those special words and now not only do I have a place to keep those memories bedsides in my heart.

For my project I used:

Helmar 450 Quick Dry, Zapdots, Gemstone Adhesive and Craft Glue

Kraft Paper

Patterned Paper, Fairy Dust Glitter and Mixed Media Inx by Donna Salazar

Dies (Rose Creation by Donna Salazar) and Grand Calibur Die Cut Machine by Spellbinders Paper Arts

I think I will make one for Christmas too!

A Book Of Memories

by Kathleen Sheppard

Hidden in the attic,
all the way upstairs,
is something very special,
that I would like to share.

My hopes,
my dreams,
old photographs and cards,
of good times and bad times that make me laugh.

The joy of a hug,
the thrill of a kiss,
leaves me to remember the pure, simple bliss.

I cry for the fun,
and giggle for the pain,
I enjoyed the good life I was able to maintain.

The thoughts and wishes,
they all stay with me,
all of these contained in my book of memories.

****************************************************
Before I leave you today I have to tell you in the oldest email I have is from 2006....it was the last email I recieved from a beloved friend....because it was an e-card I can no longer read it but the email is there.....and how I long to read the words....

A Hallmark e-card from Enid‏

<><><>

From:	ETTWO@ALLTEL.NET
Sent:	Thu 3/02/06 5:38 PM
To:	karentaylor1111@hotmail.com

Have a fantastic creative day....create some memories and a place to store them when the heart may have tucked them away too far.

Karen Taylor

Creative Yearnings

What we remember from childhood we remember forever - permanent ghosts, stamped, inked, imprinted, eternally seen. ~Cynthia Ozick

Jack-0'-Lantern-Karen Taylor

2011-10-25T08:00:00.002-05:00

Nothing quite says “Halloween” like a jack-o’-lantern.

Have you ever wondered…

What is a jack-o’-Lanter

Were jack-o’-lanterns always made with pumpkins?

Did you know?

As Halloween approaches each year, you will begin to see carved pumpkins — commonly called “jack-o’-lanterns” — sitting on front porches all across America. As it gets dark, you’ll notice that many of them are lit from within by candles, giving them a spooky glow that lets you know Halloween is right around the corner.

Although millions of Americans carve pumpkins every autumn, not many know why or how this tradition got started. As it turns out, we can thank an Irish myth about a man named Jack.

As the old Irish legend goes, “Stingy Jack” was a miserable old man who enjoyed playing tricks on everyone, including the devil himself. One day, Stingy Jack tricked the devil into climbing up an apple tree.

He then placed crosses around the tree to prevent the devil from climbing down. Stingy Jack did not remove the crosses and let the devil down until the devil promised he would not take Stingy Jack’s soul when he died.

Years later, Stingy Jack died. Since he had been so mean to people all his life, Saint Peter would not allow him to enter heaven. Stingy Jack visited the devil in hell, but the devil kept his word and would not take his soul.

Stingy Jack was scared to roam alone in the darkness between heaven and hell, so the devil gave him an ember from the flames of hell to help him light his way. Stingy Jack loved turnips and always carried one around with him in case he got hungry.

He hollowed out a turnip and placed the ember inside it, creating a lantern. From that point on, Jack roamed the Earth without a final resting place, lighting his way with his homemade lantern. He became known as “Jack of the Lantern” or “jack-o’-lantern” for short.

On Halloween, the Irish would hollow out turnips, rutabagas, gourds and beets. They would put candles inside them to ward off evil spirits and keep Stingy Jack away.

When Irish immigrants came to America, they brought the tradition of jack-o’-lanterns with them, but they soon discovered that pumpkins were bigger and easier to carve.

Although the Irish legend of Stingy Jack is very popular, some people believe that the term jack-o’-lantern was first used to describe the strange, ghostly, flickering lights that are sometimes seen at night over bogs, swamps and marshes.

These lights go by several other names, including “will-o’-the-wisp,” ignis fatuus, “hinkypunk,” “ghost-light,” “fairy light,” “hobby lantern” and “corpse candle.” The faint, flickering lights inside of carved pumpkins resemble these strange marsh lights.

Curiously, some scientists believe these mysterious marsh lights are caused by small fires that erupt when organic material in bogs, swamps and marshes decays, releasing methane and phosphine that spontaneously ignite when they come into contact with the oxygen in the air.

Other scientists believe these strange marsh lights may be explained by bioluminescent plants, such as honey fungus, or even the white feathers of barn owls that fly around in the night.

Or would you prefer a smiling pumpkin? Maybe you’d prefer to turn a pumpkin into your own unique artistic masterpiece… it’s up to you!

I prefer making on out of Donna Salazar’s wonderful products! Fun…Artistic….and one of a kind!

First draw your pumpkin man. He does not have to be perfect that is the wonderful thing about Jack and cut him out of the back of Donna Salazar Designs Artistic Papers by GCD Studios.

Color his face and antique the edges of his face with Donna’s Mixed Media Inx and Colorbox ink by Clearsnap.

Use Donna’s Mixed Media Inx to make eyes out of fabric covered buttons. Cut off Shank.

Cut piece of Donna’s Crafty Chronicles by GCD Studio’s, crimp and spritz with Smooch Spritz by Donna Salazar Designs by Clearsnap.

Decorate 4 x 4 piece of Donna Salazar Designs paper by GCD Studios. Add stamps and Fairy Dust glitter…or anything else that tickles your fancy.

Ink some Corrugated cardboard by Donna Salazar Designs for Zutter. Ink leaves from Donna’s Rose Creations by Spellbinders Paper Arts with Clearsnap Colorbox ink.

Staple the leaves and stem to front of pumpkin…add Artistic Wire by piercing the back top of Jack’s head and poke through….curling the ends in the front.

……curling the ends in the front.

Add Fairy Dust Glitter by Donna Salazar Designs and Glue Gloss by Clearsnap.

Using Rivet by Zutter put two holes on each side of paper with Zutter acrylic 4 x 4 on top.

Finish making it into your…spider web.

Tear up Donna’s Artistic Paper and Crafty Chronicle by GCD Studios ….ink with Donna’s Mixed Media Inx and Fairy Dust Glitter by Clearsnap

Adhere the piece over the body in a random pattern.

Cut AND tear around body shape add head and then turn Jack of your dreams….add those touches that make him yours

I added some Want2crap Bling!! YUM!! and denim to the bottom of his pants….(hat is for Donna.)

Vintage tatted lace. To sleeves and pants.

Hand stitching, Zutter corrugated cardboard, Clearsnap Smooch Spritz and more Want2Scrap™ bling and Nestabling to make him SO handsome.

I think these little touches makes him magical!

Lots of little details the more the better for my Jack!!

And in the end it is true love for me and Jack!

To create Jack*o*Lantern I used:

Donna Salazar Designs Antiquities Paper for GCD Studios

Donna Salazar Designs Artistic Papers Journal Papers for GCD Studios

Donna Salazar Designs Crafty Chronicle for GCD Studios.

Donna Salazar Designs Mixed Media Inx for Clearsnap

Donna Salazar Designs Smooch Spritz , Donna Salazar Designs Mixed Media Inx for Clearsnap and Colorbox Ink by Clearsnap

Donna Salazar Designs Rose Creations Die Template and Grand Calibur by Spellbinders Paper Arts

Artistic Wire

4x4 Clear Acrylic , Zutter Corrugated Board, Rivet by Zutter

Nestabling™ Beaded Square Black Rhinestone by Want2Scrap™

Other: Embroidery floss, covered buttons, Want2Scrap™ bling and Nestabling , vintage tatted lace, vintage seam binding. and http://wonderopolis.org for information on Jack o lanterns

Jack O' Lantern: A Gothic Halloween Love

By: Kitty the Dreamer

The moon was full

I could hear cats screaming in the distance

Children's laughter filled the streets with clues of candy stomach aches and empty enthusiasm

I sat on my front porch

sinking into a pool of my own misery

When a dark cloud rolled in

and he stepped out of the night to rescue me

His hair was black just like the Halloween sky

His eyes glowed with the wisdom and protection of an owl

My Jack O' Lantern,

He saved me from all evil that night

his morbidly beautiful demeanor weakened my detached blocked black heart

I fell in love immediately, but where did my king of the night go?

Now I'm left here all alone, once again

To await the next Halloween eve.

Have a wonderful day and until next time…..Be Creative!

Karen

The Sisterhood–Karen Taylor

2011-10-14T08:00:00.002-05:00

Good morning..Karen Taylor here today to with you a happy October to you.

I hope you are enjoying fall weather.
I know I am loving the cooler temperatures and the leaves changing color.

For my Want2Scrap™ project today I am celebrating sisterhood!

“A sister is a little bit of childhood that can never be lost.” ~Marion C. Garretty

I started my layout with Simple Stories Elementary collection and cut Spellbinders™ Paper Arts: Stars Nestabilities® die templates using Grand Calibur™ die cut machine. I cut my background paper to 11 1/2 x 11/1/2, inked the edges and stapled to a 12 x 12 piece of kraft paper.

I then glued the die cut star to Nestaboard™ Stars Five,

Inked with ECO Green: Ink Walnut and embellished with Nestabling™ Star Five Silver and Bling: 72 Count - Silver Rhinestones - Self Adhesive and finished off the the layout with the layered and “blinged” stars.

I then die cut using Spellbinders™ Paper Arts: Grand Calibur™ die cut machine Donna's Alphas Spellbinders™ Shapeabilities® the word “SISTERS” . Inked them and embellished with Want2Scrap™: Bling: 72 Count - Silver Rhinestones - Self Adhesive.

In the cookies of life, sisters are the chocolate chips. ~Author Unknown

She is your mirror, shining back at you with a world of possibilities. She is your witness, who sees you at your worst and best, and loves you anyway. She is your partner in crime, your midnight companion, someone who knows when you are smiling, even in the dark. She is your teacher, your defense attorney, your personal press agent, even your shrink. Some days, she's the reason you wish you were an only child. ~Barbara Alpert

For my project I used:

Want2Scrap™: Nestaboard™ Stars Five, Nestabling™ Star Five Silver and Bling: 72 Count - Silver Rhinestones - Self Adhesive

Cross Promotional Products Used:

Spellbinders™ Paper Arts: Grand Calibur™, Stars Nestabilities® die templates SKU: S4-092, Donna's Alphas Spellbinders™ Shapeabilities® SKU: LF-003

ECO Green:Paint and Ink Walnut

Other:
Mini Alpha’s from: Webster Pages, My Little Shoebox and Mrs Grossman

Ink blending tool: Clearsnap

Staples and stapler

Thank you for joining me on this post celebrating the wonderful and complex world of sisterhood. If you have a sister or your best friend “is” your sister…..we must celebrate the joy they bring to our life…..................................most of the time ; )

DON'T FORGET!!

Keep up with all the latest and greatest on our facebook fan page...just hit like!
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Want2Scrap/296262564246

Have a fantastic day and until next time……….Be Creative!

Karen Taylor

A sister is a gift to the heart, a friend to the spirit, a golden thread to the meaning of life. ~Isadora James

A Vintage Friendship Card and 450 Quick Dry Adhesive

2011-10-12T20:00:00.000-05:00

I am so thrilled to join Helmar this month as their guest designer. I love their products and can not wait to show them off! I have been a fan for a LONG time and their 450 Quick Dry Adhesive was perfect for making my project. The Helmar website includes the wonderful instructions below on using all of their adhesives …they could not make it any easier..no guessing!

Sizes - 1.7 and 4.23 fl. oz..
Mediums- Fabrics, leathers, ribbon, rick rack, sheer fabrics, flowers, buttons, embellishments. Refer to Helmar Adhesives Easy Selection Chart.
Instructions:

Make sure to Remove Foil Seal upon initial opening.
Always test before use.
Make sure surfaces to be adhered are clean & dry
Apply an even coat of glue over entire surface to be adhered.
Carefully wipe any glue residue off using a gum eraser or damp cloth.

Dry Time - Quick Drying.
Helmar Products are ACMI certified to ensure our products are the safest they can be.
Clean up -With most solvents if glue is still wet, soak with water using a damp cloth and wipe. Comes off as anon sticky opague gum.
Where you can purchase it - List of Helmar Preferred Retailers on Blog: www.helmarusa.typepad.com (left side)
Wholesale retailers contact - info@helmarusa.com
Tips: Nice thin, even layer is key. Dries clear, and sets quickly.
Precautions - Do not smoke when using. Keep away from eyes. Avoid contace with heat sparks an open flames.
Twist Top - Twist to open and twist top to close.

My Vintage Friendship card Featuring Helmars 450 Quick Dry Adhesive, paper by Donna Salazar and wonderful inks by Clearsnap.

I need no other adhesive to adhere the paper, vintage tatted lace or even the flower and leaves. Helmars 450 Quick Dry Adhesive did it all!

If you do not follow thier blog...head over now and become a follower!
www.helmarusa.typepad.com

and make sure you like them on facebook and keep up with everything happening at Helmar USA!
http://www.facebook.com/#!/HelmarUSA

Thank you for joining me today and I look forward to returning a couple more times this months with some fun Helmar product tutorials! I hope you have a wonderful and creativity filled day and until next time ….”BE CREATIVE!!”

Karen Taylor

Creative Yearnings

“Creativity can be described as letting go of certainties.” Gail Sheehy

Wonderful Things Happening at Want2Scrap

2011-10-07T16:01:00.001-05:00

Happy Friday to everyone...I hope you are have a fantastic day... I love Friday's in the fall.

O hushed October morning mild,

Thy leaves have ripened to the fall;

Tomorrow’s wind, if it be wild,

Should waste them all.

The crows above the forest call;

Tomorrow they may form and go.

O hushed October morning mild,

Begin the hours of this day slow.

Make the day seem to us less brief.

Hearts not averse to being beguiled,

Beguile us in the way you know.

Release one leaf at break of day;

At noon release another leaf;

One from our trees, one far away.

Retard the sun with gentle mist;

Enchant the land with amethyst.

Slow, slow!

For the grapes’ sake, if they were all,

Whose leaves already are burnt with frost,

Whose clustered fruit must else be lost –

For the grape’s sake along the wall.

-- Robert Frost

New Product Alert!! Personalized home decor is so popular right now and Want2Scrap™ is doing Granite Etching with your favorite photos! What a great way to take your pictures off the pages and displaying them as works of art in your home!!

The Granite is 5 x 7 and available in three designs oval, rectangle and a heart. It's SO easy to do!! Click HERE to check out the website and make your selection and then just email your photo to: granitewant2scrap@yahoo.com and we'll take care of the rest. How Fantastic is that!! Please be sure the photo is at least 200 dpi. The larger .dpi the better it will look. Please include a phone number to contact you with any questions. For a limited time we are offering a free caption either above or below the photo. Be sure to include your caption in the body of your email and mark it "caption".your email and mark it "caption". The Granite Etching is $29.99 plus S&H.

I think the Granite Etching would make Wonderful Christmas Presents!! Great ideas for Grandparents, Mom & Dad, Kids (picture of them with their pet) and Best Friends!! Don't let all of your pictures and memories stay in an album--take them off the page with a beautiful piece of home decor to enjoy everyday!! Get a jump start on Christmas shopping order yours today!!

A reminder too about BIG savings on PINK products!

October is also known as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. I think at some point in our lives we have all had cancer effect us either personally, a loved one or a friend. Want2Scrap™ recognizes Breast Cancer Awareness Month and All Pink items on our website will be at 50% off for the entire month of October. At the end of the month, Want2Scrap™ will donate 10% of sales on all these Pink items to the Susan G. Komen Foundation. Check out all of the Pink at Want2Scrap!

Have a wonderful Friday.....and until next time be Creative!

Vintage love…..AND big deals at Want2Scrap

2011-10-04T08:00:00.001-05:00

First I would like to share some fantastic new from Want2Scrap™. Want2Scrap recognizes Breast Cancer Awareness Month. All Pink items on our website will be at 50% off for the entire month of October. At the end of the month, Want2Scrap will donate 10% of sales on all these Pink items to the Susan G. Komen Foundation.

Michele Parrish owner of Want2Scrap™ Posted this on facebook: “‎14 years ago this month I Michele Parrish owner of Want2scrap was given the frightful news that I had Stage 3 Breast Cancer. I am a Survivor because of all the research that was done to help fight the disease. Thank You to all who contribute in so many different ways to fight the fight. 10% of all sales for the month of October will be donated to the Susan G. Komen Foundation in memory of all the women who lost their fight especially Patricia Klingenberger.....want2scrap.com XX”

For the women who with great courage won their battle and to the memory of those who fought the most courageous battle ….and lost…..PLEASE support Want2Scrap™ mission to help those fighting this battle.

I wanted to take a moment to share a couple of projects that I have had published this summer. I will be sharing more in the days and weeks to come. Today I want to share….this ARCH: Published in Scrapbook News and Review Magazine:

Cheerfulness by Karen Taylor Supplies Patterned Paper GCD Studios and Spellbinders Paper Arts Die Rose Creation Die: Donna Salazar; Smooch Spritz and Fairy Dust Glitter by Donna Salazar also Chalk Ink by Clearsnap; Other: Chipboard, lace, brad

Sweet Butterfly Kisses by Karen Taylor Supplies Cardstock: Bazzill; Patterned Paper: Donna Salazar for GCD Studios; Letter: American Crafts, October Afternoon; Doily: Wilton;Glitter, Ink: Clearsnap , Adhesive: Glitter Art Institute; Punch: Martha Stewart

Bling Bundle Bonanza!

Exciting News to share! We have bundled up some of our most popular Bling at Huge Discounts for the Holidays! Get more Bling for your Buck!

Bling Bundle #1 comes with the following: - 72 Count Black Rhinestone - Jumbo Flower w/ Swirls - Flower White Pearl - Fleur de Lis Rectangles - Circles Black Rhinestones - Labels Fourteen Black Rhinestones - Classic Diamonds White Pearl - Classic Diamonds Black Rhinestones - Stars Five Black Rhinestones - Baby Bling 100 ct. Black Rhinestones Bundle One is a $28.43 value for only $14.99

(No other discounts apply to Bundles)

Bling Bundle #2 comes with the following:

- Funky Swirls Clear Rhinestones - Brackets, Fancy Pair Clear Small - Scalloped Hearts Red Rhinestones - Jumbo Flower & Swirls - 72ct. Red Rhinestones - Brackets Fancy Clear Large - Classic Diamonds Clear Rhinestones - Beautiful Bling Strips White Pearl & Clear Rhinestone - Nested Pennants Clear Rhinestones - Fleur de Lis Rectangles Red & Clear Rhinestone - Beautiful Bling Strips Black & Clear Rhinestone - Lacey Ovals Clear Rhinestones - Labels Two Red Rhinestones - Baby Bling White Pearl 100ct. - Baby Bling Red Pearl 100ct. - Baby Bling Clear Rhinestones 100ct. - Fleur de Lis - Beautiful Bling Strips White Pearl & Black Rhinestone - Petite Scalloped Circles Small Clear Rhinestone - Labels Fourteen Clear Rhinestone A $46.38 dollar value for only $24.99

(No other discounts apply to bundles)

Bling Bundle #3 contains the following: - Scalloped Hearts Pink Pearl - Jumbo Swirl Brown Rhinestone - Jumbo Flower & Swirls Pink Pearl - 72ct. Smokey Brown Rhinestone - 72ct. Hot Pink Pearls - Fancy Tags Three Black Rhinestone - Flower & Swirls Brown Rhinestone - Sprightly Sprockets Black Rhinestone - Sprightly Sprockets Clear Rhinestone - Fancy Tags Three Clear Rhinestone - Lacey Ovals Orange Rhinestone - Beaded Square Coral Pearl - Classic Diamonds Hot Pink - Labels Twenty Two White Pearl - Stars Five Clear Rhinestones - Labels Nine Purple Rhinestone - Lacey Ovals Mossy Pearl - Labels Twenty Three Black Rhinestone - Petite Scalloped Circles Lavender Pearl - Petite Scalloped Circles Turquoise Rhinestone A $62.34 Value for only $29.99!!!

(No other discounts apply to bling bundles)

Have a fantastic day and ...until next time and BE CREATIVE!

FEEDING YOUR CREATIVITY w/BLING Eclectic Paperie and Want2Scrap BLOG HOP

2011-09-30T06:00:00.001-05:00

The E-Team is excited to share in a fun blog hop with the Want2Scrap Design Team. If you are new to eclectic Paperie or Want2Scrap, here is a little information about these two creative companies. Each offer unique lines of products for all paper crafters.

You should have arrived here from the wonderful Elise Durenberger’s Blog.

eclectic Paperie (eP) is an online boutique for all who love paper crafts. There is an eclectic assortment of products, supplies, tools, and materials to assist you in your quest for creative expression. Stretch your basic paper crafting skills beyond simple scrapbooking and card making. Take the next step into artistic expression by "feeding your creativity" at eclectic Paperie. You keep up new product offerings by following eclectic Paperie on Facebook, Twitter, or the eP Blog.

Want2Scrap™ manufactures rhinestones lines including the Nestabling™ line that coordinates with the newly released Nestaboard™ chipboard line. A variety of Nestabling and Nestaboard shapes correspond with specific Spellbinders™ Nestabilities™ die templates. Want2Scrap also manufacturers their own line chipboard albums and accents, acrylic albums, and multi-layered laser designs and other fine scrapbooking products. Want2Scrap brings ease of use and flexibility in their product lines by offering products uniquely tailored to its customers’ needs. Follow Want2Scrap on Facebook and the Want2Scrap Blog!

The E-Team & Want2Scrap Design Team were on a mission to create some fun projects using the Nestabling, Nestaboard with any coordinating Spellbinders dies, too. Come blog hop with the two teams to see what kind of creative juices resulted.
The E-Team:

Daisy Sparks (The eclectic Paperie Blog)
Broni Holcombe
Latrice Murphy
Linda Duke(Representing both Teams)
Micki Harper
Sherry Cheever
Starla Nelson

The Want2Scrap Team:

For my Blog Project I made layout using Want2Scrap™ and eclectic Paperie products.

For my project I used:

Want2Scrap™ Products:

eclectic Paperie” Products:

OTHER:

Spellbinder Paper Arts: Grand Calibur™ and Labels Five, Donna Salavar: Crafty Chronicle by GCD Studios, Clearsnap Mixed Media Inx and Corrugated Cardboard by Zutter, Doily, and Beacon Adhesive

Twice the number of blog hop participants means twice the fun that includes prizes, too. Visit each E-Team and Want2Scrap participating member and leave them some feedback about their creations. One comment per person, per blog, please. You have until today, Friday, September 30th to Sunday, October 2nd to visit each blog participant. Six random winners will be chosen from the blog hop participants. The six winners will win either a $20.00 gift voucher from eclectic Paperie OR Want2Scrap. Each company is giving away three (3) $20.00 gift vouchers. Winners be posted on the eclectic Paperie Blog and on the Want2Scrap Blog on Tuesday, October 4th so make sure you check back to claim your prize.

Thanks for joining in the fun and head to Linda Duke’s blog to see her blog project…..she will not disappoint!

Have a great Friday and until next time….be creative!

October....Here We Come!

2011-09-28T21:22:00.000-05:00

YES….it is almost here…

There is no season when such pleasant and sunny spots may be lighted on, and produce so pleasant an effect on the feelings, as now in October." - Nathaniel Hawthorne

In celebration of the upcoming month I have created a fun tutorial using great products.Want2Scrap™ products.

I started by using Spellbinders™ Grand Calibur™ and Classic Squares Large die templates that I inked the edges and create a grid pattern on my patterned paper background.

Then used Clearsnap Smooch Spritz by Donna Salazar I gave the paper a splattered aged look to add interest.

Next I added my photo that I matted with cardstock.

I then cut one edge off of one page of Want2Scrap™ Grand Album Labels One.

Using Beacon Liquid Laminate I adhere a paper doily to the chipboard and then Spritz with Smooch Spritz.. Tuck behind photo on left side and adhere.

I repeated the spritz on the Chipboard Embellishment Style B only I sponged a bit of brown ink in random places before spritzing. Adhere as shown to the upper left hand corner of the photo.

Using an empty spritz bottle I added a little of Beacon’s Liquid Laminate and a little of Clearsnap Spritz by Donna Salazar in Evergreen and spritzed the Nestaboard™ Fancy Tags Two and sprinkled with Clearsnap’s Fairy Dust glitter by Donna Salazar.

and added Nestabling™ Fancy Tags Two in White Pearls.

I embellished the chipboard with Want2Scrap™ WONDERFUL Bling!!

I added my final details…..

and now I get to enjoy this wonderful October memory….so many memories….we think we will not forget but we do. Write them down. You can use them on a layout or project but most of all you will have that wonderful book of memories to go back to and for a moment be transported back to that moment in time when that memory happened. The only thing more wonderful than a memory is creating new memories.

For my layout I used:

Want2Scrap™ :

Nestabling™ Fancy Tags Two White Pearl

Nestaboard™ Fancy Tags Two

Chipboard Embellishments - Pack of 4- Style B

Grand Chipboard Album - Labels One

Cross Promotional Products Used:

Spellbinders™ Grand Calibur™ and S4-126 Classic Squares die templates

Beacon Adhesives™ 3-in-1 Advanced Craft Glue™ and Liquid Laminate

Other:

Clearsnap: Smooch Spritz and Fairy Dust Glitter by Donna Salazar

Patterned Paper: My Mind’s Eye and Basic Grey

Remember to cherish those you love. Remember to say thank you when someone does something kind for you. It is only two words and only takes seconds to say but the feeling it will give that person can only be matched by your appreciation for what they do for you.

I appreciate you. I am so thankful you came to see my creation. I am thankful to Want2Scrap™ for having such wonderful products and an amazing group to work with. This fall let’s really take a step towards sharing thankfulness and doing things to make people thankful.

I hope you are having a fantastic week and are enjoying fall where ever you are.

Until next time….Be Creative!

Blessed

2011-09-20T15:45:00.000-05:00

GOOD MORNING!!

Karen Taylor here today to share this wonderful Donna Salazar Day with you…such a great day when you can play with her products.

What a fantastic time of the year…air is crisp, the leaves are turning wonderful shades of colors that truly inspire me. Walks with the ones you love a moment to sit and realize just how BLESSED we are….and a moment to FALL in love all over.

This inspire this layout. A beautiful day in our city park that we are luck to have. It is such a wonderful place to share some time with those very special ones in our lives.

And ink upper wings spritz bottom wings.

Add your flowers and those finishing touches that make the layout your own…the title does not have to be the same. The colors can be what inspires you, just create from your heart.

And end the end enjoy your creation. Capture that moment to share….or to remind you of those treasured moment in the years to come.

BLESSED

“Everyone says you only fall in love once but that's not true every time I hear your voice i fall in love all over again.”

Products Used:

Antiquities Collection by Donna Salazar for GCD Studios

Rose Creations and Wonderful Wings by Donna Salazar for Spellbinders Paper Arts™

Zutter Corrugated Board by Donna Salazar

Zutter Distrezz-it-All by Donna Salazar

Clearsnap Smooch Spritz by Donna Salazar

(Holly Berry, Candle Glow and Evergreen)

Clearsnap Mix'd Media Inx by Donna Salazar (Truffle, Leather and Black)

Clearsnap: Colorbox Cat's Eye Pigment Ink

Clearsnap: Color Tool Box Blender Foam Stylus Tips

Spellbinders Paper Arts™: Grand Calibur™

Want2Scrap™: Nestabling™ : Nestabling Labels Five White Pearl, Nestabling Fancy Tags Two White Pearl

Want2Scrap™: Nestaboard™: Nestaboard Fancy Tags Two

Want2Scrap™: 72 Count - Silver Rhinestones - Self Adhesive

Other: Paper Crimper, Liquid Laminate, Cardstock, Chipboard

Thanks for joining me today and until next time……BE CREATIVE!!

You and I….tell me ‘bout the good ole days

2011-09-14T09:00:00.002-05:00

Grandpa, tell me 'bout the good old days
Sometimes it feels like this worlds gone crazy
Grandpa, take me back to yesterday
When the line between right and wrong
Didn't seem so hazy
Did lovers really fall in love to stay
And stand beside each other, come what may
Was a promise really something people kept
Not just something they would say
Did families really bow their heads to pray
Did daddies really never go away
Oh, grandpa, tell me 'bout the good old days
Grandpa, everything is changing fast
We call it progress, but I just don't know
And grandpa, let's wander back into the past
And paint me the picture of long ago
Did lovers really fall in love to stay
And stand beside each other come what may
Was a promise really something people kept
Not just something they would say and then forget
Did families really bow their heads to pray
Did daddies really never go away
Oh, grandpa, tell me 'bout the good old days
Oh, grandpa, tell me 'bout the good old days

This is a special layout of my grandfather and I when I was a little girl. As a child raised by her grandparents they were VERY important to me and preserving memories of them is something I cherish. My grandfather and I were buddies. Out of the three girls I was his tomboy and love to fish with him and get my hands dirty…seems like some things never change (I always have ink on my hands).

Supplies:

Want2Scrap™: 72 Count - Sage Green Pearls - Self Adhesive, Grand Chipboard Album - Big Scalloped Circles, Chipboard Embellishments - Pack of 4 - Style C, 72 Count - Black Rhinestones - Self Adhesive

Graphic 45: Curtain Call

Spellbinders Paper Arts™: Grand Calibur™ and Rose Creations by Donna Salazar

Beacon Adhesive: Zip Dry and Liquid Laminate

Clearsnap: Smooch Spritz (Holly Berry and Evergreen), Fairy Dust Glitter (Pralines and Cream and Mixed Media Inx by Donna Salazar

Chipboard Letters: Maya Roads

I hope you enjoy this post…..if you are a grandfathers girls I am sure you will.
Have a wonderful day and until next time be creative!!

Black Tie Affair

2011-09-10T08:00:00.000-05:00

Black Tie Affair!

Our Simply Elegance collection by Best Creation’s Inc is perfect for those special occasions. Today it's a black tie affair!

Bella by Karen Taylor
Products used: Best Creation's Glitter Cardstock GCS012, GCS014, Basic Glitter Paper BGP408, BGP207, Peel-off Stickers POS067S
Spellbinder Paper Arts: Grand Calibur Die Cut Machine. Grand Lace Borderabilities and Rose Creations by Donna Salazar
Want 2 Scrap: Baby Bling Rhinestones Black - 100 Count - 2.5 mm and Baby Bling Rhinestones Turquoise - 100 Count - 2.5mm
Clearsnap: Fairy Dust Glitter by Donna Salazar, Mixed Media Inx by Donna Salazar: Peridot and Black
Chipboard Letters: My Little Shoe Box and Thickers by American Crafts
Misc: Doily, trim and Pom poms

"This special photo of my dear daughter who was pregnant with my first grandchild was picked for the BLACK TIE AFFAIR because
it deserved special paper and products to really show off the beauty of the photo. The class of the paper just adds so much elegance to
this layout that means so much to me. This paper line is SO fantastic to work with. Great for SO many occasions...you can use it everyday."

A mother is the truest friend we have, when trials heavy and sudden, fall upon us; when adversity takes the place of prosperity; when friends who rejoice with us in our sunshine desert us; when trouble thickens around us, still will she cling to us, and endeavor by her kind precepts and counsels to dissipate the clouds of darkness, and cause peace to return to our hearts. ~Washington Irving
Happy Memorial Day……have a wonderful day and until next time……BE CREATIVE!

Want to make it Fabulous!

2011-09-06T09:00:00.027-05:00

Happy BLOG HOP DAY! and welcome I am so glad you could join us on this fantastic blog hop bring together three of my all time favorite companies!

Want2Scrap™, Spellbinders™ Paper Arts and JustRite® Stampers Designers have teamed up to bring you an amazing four day Blog Hop Event Sept 6th -9th filled with fabulous designs that are sure to inspire all!! Each day we will be sharing a link list with you for the featured designers and we will have a master link list just in case you happen to miss one of the days.

What would a blog hop be without prizes? Yes, we will also be giving away prizes!!
Want2Scrap will be giving away 2 $25.00 Gift Certificates.
Spellbinders Paper Arts will be giving away 2 Die Template sets with a value of $24.99 each.
JustRite Stampers will be giving away 2 Stamp Sets of the winners choice.
The prizes will be hidden the blogs so be sure to visit all of the blogs and leave a comment to increase your chances of winning. The contest for the prizes will be open until midnight Saturday, September 10th. Winners will be announced on Monday September 12th on the company blogs.

If you are new to Want2Scrap, Spellbinders Paper Arts or JustRite Stampers here is a little information about all three of these amazing companies. Each company offeres a unique line of products that work wonderfully together to make some fabulous designs.

Want2Scrap™ manufacturers rhinestones lines including the specialty Nestabling™ line along with the newly released Nestaboard™ chipboard line that coordinates perfectly with the Spellbinders™ Nestabilies™ die templates. Want2Scrap™ also manufacturers their own line chipboard albums and accents, acrylic albums, and multi-layered laser designs and other fine scrapbooking products. Want2Scrap™ brings ease of use and flexibility in their product lines by offering products uniquely tailored to its customers’ needs. Follow Want2Scrap on Facebook and the Want2Scrap Blog!

Sophistication, value and maximum versatility make Spellbinders™ die
templates #1. Beautiful Details Inspiring Creativity…Spellbinders unique
triple function die templates allow you to cut, emboss, and then stencil
through the die template for unlimited possibilities. The Spellbinders Grand
Calibur® and Spellbinders Grand Nestabilities™ cut and emboss up to 11¾”,
taking die cutting to grand proportions. Follow Spellbinders on Facebook,
Twitter and the Spellbinders Blog!

JustRite's®entire collection of stamps are designed to be compatible with Spellbinders™ die templates. JustRite Original's interlocking stamp system allows you to mix and match borders and centers to create dozens of design possibilites. Since the Spring of 2008. JustRite Original stamps have been designed to coordinate with the Spellbinders Paper Arts Nestabilities®-Decorative Elements and Basic Shapes. In January of 2011 JustRite began introducing Cling Stamps Sets designed to coordinate with Spellbinders Paper Arts Nestabilities Labels. JustRite Cling stamps are deeply etched pre-cut red rubber mounted on Static Cling Foam made in the USA . Cling sets come on a colored 8 1/2" x 61/2" Storage Panel for easy storage in our Cling Mini Binder Box.

I created this “Thank You” using products from our great blog hop companies:

Here is a close up of the Want2Scrap™: Nestabling™ and Nestaboard , Spellbinders™ Paper Arts and JustRite® Stampers: CL-02120 Vintage Floral Labels Set . IT is amazing how WONDERFUL these look together!

Supplies Used:

Want2Scrap™: Nestabling™ Heart Circles Black Rhinestones, Nestabling™ Labels Nine Black Rhinestones and Nestaboard Labels Nine
Spellbinders™ Paper Arts: Grand Calibur Die Cut Machine, Labels Nine S4-233 and Floral Doily Accents S5-040
JustRite® Stampers: CL-02120 Vintage Floral Labels Set – Cling Set of 10 Cling Stamps
Patterned Paper: Graphic 45
Ink; Clearsnap: Mixed Media Inx and Fairy Dust Glitter by Donna Salazar
Cardstock: The Paper Source

For thousands of ideas on projects using JustRite and Spellbinders™ die templates die templates visit the JustRite Design Gallery and the JustRite Blog. You can also follow our blog by following us on Facebook and Twitter.

Want2Scrap™ Blog
Spellbinders Paper Arts Blog
JustRite Stampers Blog
.

Sept 6th

Becca Feeken
Holly Simoni
Julie Overby
Kazan Clark
Terre Fry
Karen Taylor
Barb Schram

Here is the list for the entire week….to make sure you do not miss anyone!

Sept 6th

Becca Feeken
Holly Simoni
Julie Overby
Kazan Clark
Terre Fry
Karen Taylor
Barb Schram

Sept 7th

Sharon Harnist
Sherry Cheever
Tonya Dirk
Linda Duke
Kellie Fortin
Christine Emberson
Elise Durenberger
Beth Pingry
Stephanie Kraft
Latisha Yoast

Sept 8th

Debbie Olson
Shanna Vineyard
Michelle Woerner
Mimi Leinbach
Kimberly Crawford
Judy Hayes
Sankari Wegman
Dana Gustafson
Angela Barkhouse

Sept 9th

Mona Pendleton
Heidi Blankenship
Windy Robinson
Michele Kovack
Tina McDonald
Gloria Stengel

Kathy Jones

Thank you:
Thank you for joining us today and we hope you enjoy the Blog Hop. Please be sure to stop back each day during the week to see what each designer has been busy creating!

Until next time……be creative!

Tag Along with Me

2011-09-05T08:00:00.001-05:00

Hello to you all! Karen Taylor here again to share some fun creations I made using Donna Salazar Designs! But before we begin I would like to share one of my all time favorite quotes:

Be the change you want to see in the world.”

Mahatma Gandhi

In todays post I am celebrating changes in life and the changes we can make to leave this earth better than when we arrived….we all go through so many and in such different ways. It can be as simple as getting a new hair cut or a change as big as a move to another state. What ever it is we are all going through changes and it is what we do as we go through them that defines who we are.
Today I am sharing 3 tags using Donna Salazar Designs, Clearsnap, Want2Scrap™ and Spellbinders™……I hope you enjoy!

Consider how hard it is to change yourself…………..

Don’t you love the new colors of Smooch Spritz! YUMMY

Things do not change………we do.

For my tags I used:

GCD Papers: Antiquities Collection by Donna Salazar ,Artistic Journal Cards and Crafty Chronicle - Accessories by Donna Salazar
Want2Scrap™ : Baby Bling (Black Rhinestones), Nestaboard Fancy Tags Three, 72 Count - Red Pearls - Self Adhesive and Chipboard Embellishments
Spellbinders™: Grand Calibur™ , Creative Book Pages and Rose Creations by Donna Salazar Designs
CLEARSNAP: Mixed Media Inx, Fairy Dust Glitter (Pralines and Cream), Smooch Spritz (Berry Red and Evergreen by Donna Salalzar) and Glue Gloss
Misc: Lace, Quotes from the internet

"If you don't like something, change it; if you can't change it, change the way you think about it."
- Mary Engelbreit

I hope you have a super fantastic day and until next time…..be creative!

Karen