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Crop & Create Markham sneak peeks!

2012-01-05T20:00:00.010-05:00

It's about a week away. Will I see you there? Crop & Create Markham is next weekend (January 13/14, 2012) and I will be teaching three classes on the 14th (Saturday). Here's some sneak peeks of the "Patchwork Album" and two card classes:

'Tis the season for a new Scrapbook & Cards Today!

2011-12-03T14:03:00.007-05:00

The winter issue is out and it looks amazing! You can download it for free by clicking here.

Inside you will find these projects of mine:

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock and Sand-it Gadget tool, My Mind's Eye patterned paper, Jillibean Soup corrugated letters, Stampin' Up/Sizzix snowflake dies, Fiskars border punch, Crate Paper chipboard, Lifestyle Crafts letter dies, American Crafts layering tape, Font: Mason, other: sewing machine and thread.
Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock, Jillibean Soup kraft paper and twine, My Mind's Eye patterned paper, stamps, brads, diecuts, chipboard, bling, and felt trim, We R' Memory Keepers eyelet, Sizzix embossing folder and die (star), Tsukineko ink, American Crafts ink, other: sewing machine and thread.

Supplies: Fancy Pants patterned paper, ribbon, buttons, stickers, and diecuts, 7Gypsies receipt tray, Imaginsce clear snowflakes, Helmar Quick Dry glue, DMC embroidery thread, Font: Another Typewriter.

ScrapFest done...and onward to CreativFestival!

2011-10-16T18:44:00.007-04:00

This past weekend I got to teach at ScrapFest in Oshawa, ON - two make and takes and an entire 12-page album class. The album class will be offered again at Crop & Create in Markham, ON, on Saturday, January 14th, if you missed out. Registration begins tomorrow (October 17th) for Crop & Create!

Here are the two make and takes that I offered this weekend FOR FREE at ScrapFest and I will be offering them again this coming weekend (October 22nd) at CreativFestival in Toronto, ON.

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Core Impressions, White Wash, Essentials) and Sand-It Gadget tool, Jillibean Soup kraft card and twine, Quickutz ornament and tree dies, Sizzix scalloped circle die, Spellbinders star die, Fiskars paper crimper, We R' Memory Keepers Corner Chomper, and American Crafts layering tape.

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Kraft Core and Graphic 45) and Sand-It Gadget tool, Scenic Route grid paper, Tim Holtz/Sizzix border die (leaves and branches), Tsukineko inks, EK Success perforator (to add ink stitches), Pebbles Inc. rub-on and Xyron Sticker Maker adhesive.

Finally, here are a few sneak peeks of the Holiday Mini-album class that I am teaching this Saturday, October 22nd, at CreativFestival in Toronto, ON. It's not too late to sign up...there are a few spots still available!

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Spotted) and Sand-It Gadget tool, Echo Park patterned paper and cardstock stickers, Scenic Route grid paper, Fiskars border punch and circle punch, EK Success circle punch, We R' Memory Keepers Crop-a-Dile, Cinch tool and coil (for binding), American Crafts layering tape. This album is based on a PageMaps sketch by Becky Fleck.

Fall issue and 2012 Calendar news!

2011-09-25T19:09:00.003-04:00

Be sure to RUN to your local scrapbooking store to pick up the fall 2011 issue of Scrapbook & Cards Today....or you can always download it for FREE by clicking here. See if you can eye-spy two layouts of mine..."Hike" and "A Girl and Her Dog" are hidden in that issue with some kinda coolio techniques on both of them. ;0)
Also, starting on October 14th, you may begin pre-ordering the 2012 PageMaps Sketch Calendar. For more information, click here. I will be creating a layout for November of this calendar. Wheee!

Today's the day!!!

2011-08-24T12:09:00.004-04:00

Today's the day that registration begins for ScrapFest Oshawa 2011 at 8pm EST. I am teaching a class on the Saturday night that you don't want to miss. Here are the deets:

Patchwork Quilt Photo Album

Date: Saturday, Oct 15th, 2011

Time: 5:00 pm - 7:30 pm (2.5 hours)

Location: Campus Wellness and Recreation Centre (Durham College) in Oshawa, Ontario
Skill Level: Beginner and up
Focus: Design
Price: $49.00 + HST (This DOES NOT include your Marketplace pass!)

Class Description
Make an entire album in just two hours! Each participant receives a 12"x12" Xyron Everyday Stories brown leather album (retail for $40US). Heart warming patterned paper by Jillibean Soup (Homemade 6 Bean Soup) and crafty cardstock by Core'dinations (Kraft-Core) compliment the layout of this 6 double-page album. Create a patchwork quilt of all your favourite photos from over the years. Embossing, sanding and stitching are just the icing on top of this workshop that you don't want to miss! Only 20 spots available.

Photos for album (can be added after the class):

Mostly 4"x6" and 6"x4" but additional sizes can be used.

All the student will need to bring is their basic tool kit. All other supplies will be provided by the instructor. Students need to bring to class a basic tool kit.

Sponsors: Scrapbook & Cards Today, Xyron (Everyday Stories Album), Core'dinations, Jillibean Soup.

Summer lovin' with Kraft-Core

2011-07-27T11:53:00.007-04:00

It's a problem, people.

My stash of Core'dinations' *NEW* Kraft-Core is starting to dwindle. The shakes could be setting in soon.
This layout uses 30 different embossing folders (Quickutz, Cuttlebug, Sizzix, Stampin' Up!/Sizzix) and a Stampin' Up/Sizzix "Embosslit" which cuts and embosses 6 buttons at once.

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Kraft-Core) and Sand-It Gadget tool, Cuttlebug embossing folders, Sizzix embossing folders and flower dies, Stampin' Up/Sizzix embossing folders and buttons Embosslit, Quickutz embossing folders and letter dies, American Crafts layering tape, Font: Mason, other: sewing machine and thread.

Want a close-up of those flowers? In order to make them I cut the flowers first with Tim Holtz/Sizzix and Sizzix flower dies. I then embossed each flower layer with a different embossing folder. I then sanded them and adhered them to a separate sheet of kraft paper. I attached the buttons with layering tape and then trimmed the over-hanging petals and attached it to the main sheet of kraft paper.

Oh, yes. Kraft-Core is going to be a problem for me. A very enjoyable problem.

And now...a Kraft-Core layout!

2011-07-15T08:59:00.006-04:00

Kraft-Core is the latest product coming from Core'dinations ColorCore Cardstock. They have paired up with Tim Holtz to bring us 24 different coloured cardstock with kraft paper in the core. You can sand it, tear it, emboss it or just leave it as is. Coming from a diehard kraft paper fan this is fan-friggin-tastic!

Supplies: Core'dinations Kraft-Core cardstock and Sand-It Gadget tool, Sizzix owl die, Stampin' Up!/Sizzix letter dies, Quickutz letter embossing folder and branch die, Cuttlebug embossing folder (for owl's chest), We R' Memory Keepers Sew Easy tool (to add small holes to the blue strip), Uniball white pen, Xyron adhesive, American Crafts layering tape, Font: Mason.

Helpful Hints: To create the tiny holes in the blue border strip I used my We R' Memory Keepers' Sew Easy tool. I ran the basic straight-stitch hole maker over the strip and then lightly sanded to reveal the kraft paper core.

Use Core'dinations for all your diecuts. It allowed me to add great dimension to this owl by sanding the edges and embossing and sanding his chest. This is where it pays to have WAY too many embossing folders in your stash. ;0)

Kraft Core...a card!

2011-07-13T10:06:00.007-04:00

Today I have a card to share which I just made last night with the *NEW* Kraft Core by Core'dinations. I used 6 different Tim Holtz/Sizzix embossing folders since this collection is a Tim Holtz/Core'dinations product.

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Kraft Core) and Sand-It Gadget tool, Tim Holtz/Sizzix embossing folders, Stampin' Up!/Sizzix letter dies, Xyron Creatopia adhesive, other: sewing machine and thread. This card is based on a sketch by Becky Fleck from her book Scrapbook PageMaps 2 (page 47).

Here's a trick:
In order to sand the small black letters I first had to adhere them to the card using my Xyron Creatopia and then sand them. They are much to small to sand before attaching and the Xyron provides the adhesive you need to keep them in place for the sanding.

ETA: Today, over on the Scrapbook & Cards Today blog, I wrote up some instructions on how to make a pair of these little beauties.

Kraft paper meets Core'dinations!!!

2011-07-12T20:21:00.005-04:00

Christmas has come early. A dream has finally come true. Core'dinations has come out with a cardstock line with kraft paper in the core. 24 colours. The best part? It arrived at my house today. I *just* finished making a huge pot of coffee and I am heading up to the craft cave now.
Stay tuned...

Xyron Creatopia meets knitting

2011-07-02T07:24:00.006-04:00

The other day, on the Scrapbook & Cards Today blog, I posted the following card for the 3T (Tips, Tricks and Techniques) feature of the week. I am assigned the last Tuesday in each month if you want to add that to your blog-cruising calendar. My article was all about going back to your crafting roots and trying to add your crafting skills to layouts and cards. My mother and grandmother armed me with multiple crafting skills and I really want to start adding some of those skills to my future projects.

Supplies: Jillibean Soup kraft paper and patterned paper, Xyron Creatopia (fabric adhesive), Patons yarn, Font: Another Typewriter, other: sewing machine, thread, bamboo skewers.

Finally....Happy Canada Day! Happy 4th of July!

It's here! It's here!

2011-06-25T13:52:00.005-04:00

The summer issue of Scrapbook & Cards Today is now available either on-line or at your local scrapbooking store.

I've got two layouts in there. The first one is of my beautiful and creative mother...

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock and Sand-It Gadget tool, Jillibean Soup kraft paper, My Little Shoebox patterned paper, stamp and diecuts, Maya Road trinket pins, American Crafts buttons and layering tape, Sizzix flower dies, Quickutz letter dies, ProvoCraft embossing folder, Xyron Creatopia (fabric adhesive, Cutz, Shapez), Tsukineko ink, DMC embroidery thread, Font: Another Typewriter, other: felt, pattern paper.

My second layout is based on a PageMaps sketch by Becky Fleck and documents our last trip to Great Wolf Lodge:

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (WhiteWash) and Sand-It Gadget tool, Echo Park patterned paper and cardstock stickers, Jilllibean Soup patterned paper (grid), Maya Road trinket pin, American Crafts layering tape, EK Success circle punch, Font: Another Typewriter, other: sewing machine and thread.

It's coming! It's coming!

2011-06-22T23:54:00.002-04:00

The summer issue of Scrapbook & Cards Today magazine arrives in local scrapbooking stores AND on-line (for free) this Friday! I have two layouts in there that I am dying to share with you. Stay tuned...

In the meanwhile, check out this great cover layout done by my pal, Kimber McGray.

Happy Father's Day!

2011-06-19T12:54:00.004-04:00

In light of the fact that my dad is a sailor AND I haven't quite got around to putting away my Fiskars' Boundary Waters punch, here is my Father's Day card for my dear old dad. This year he is celebrating his 38th Father's Day.

Wanna see another project made with this same border punch and Core'dinations' ColorCore Essentials cardstock? Check it out here on the Scrapbook & Cards Today blog.

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (WhiteWash and Core Essentials) and Sand-It Gadget tool, Jilllibean Soup kraft card base, My Mind's Eye patterned paper, Jenni Bowlin Studios number stickers, Stampin' Up! stamp, EK Success flower punches (for clouds) and black marker, Fiskars Boundary Waters border punch, American Crafts layering tape, Tsukineko ink, sailboat colouring book image found on-line at: http://cusoon.files.wordpress.com/2008/01/sailboat.gif

Winner, winner, chicken dinner!

2011-06-06T09:58:00.005-04:00

Drum roll, please....And the winner of the Core'dinations ColorCore Cardstock and a Sand-It Gadget tool is...

Random Number Generator: 20

Melissa Mason said...
I am new to scrap-booking and card making and a Sand-It Gadget tool and some Core’dinations ColorCore Cardstock would be great to add to my slowly growing collections of gadgets.
May 31, 2011 6:29 PM

Melissa, if you can please fire me an email at thehodgees@yahoo.ca with your mailing address I will get your box out to you as soon as possible. With our current rolling postal strike across Canada I am not too sure when you will get your prize but I will send it off just the same.

CONGRATS!!!! What a great way to start the week.

Want another chance to win some Core'dinations? Head on over to the Scrapbook & Cards Today blog on THIS POSTING.

Core'dinations giveaway!

2011-05-31T09:00:00.002-04:00

Today, over on the Scrapbook & Cards Today blog, I have this card featured as part of 3T Tuesday - Tips, Tricks and Techniques. It's an invitation that I designed for a friend for her son's water park birthday party this summer.

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock and Sand-It Gadget tool, Fiskars border punch, Cuttlebug embossing folder, Stampin' Up! circle and scalloped circle punches, Quickutz dies (shovel, pail), American Crafts layering tape, Uniball black pen, Font: Another Typewriter, other: white card base.

If you would like to have a play with some Core'dinations ColorCore Cardstock and their new Sand-It Gadget tool, leave me a comment by 9pm EST on Friday, June 3, 2011. In your comment be sure to let me know which border punch is your fave in your stash. International folks are welcome!

Whoa. Where did May go?

2011-05-29T19:00:00.003-04:00

May has been a blur.

I have been busy designing some things that I can't quite share just yet....but I can share this.

Here is the card that I made for my mommy for Mother's Day. She loves to sew so the pin cushion was not lost on her.

Supplies: Jillibean Soup kraft card base, My Little Shoebox patterned paper and diecut, Technique Tuesday stamp (Ali Edwards Collection), Tsukineko ink, American Crafts layering tape.

I will be back on Tuesday with a 3T's (Tips, Tricks & Techniques) project for Scrapbook & Cards Today magazine. ;0)

Happy NSD! Big news...projects and more!

2011-05-07T10:57:00.008-04:00

Morning! Sorry I have been MIA lately but our house has been under construction for the past three weeks and we finally wrapped up last night.

First up, the new design team for Core'dinations' ColorCore Cardstock was announced this morning. Here's the line up:

Andrea Amu

April Derrick

Char Dobson

Leica Forrest

Lydia Jackson

Kim Jeffress

Brianne Nevill

Melissa Oliveira

Debbie Standard

Shaunte Wadley
Sarah Hodgkinson, DT Core’dinator
Ellen Sosnoski, Blog Core’dinator

Core Teachers:

Vicki Boutin

Cari Locken

Kimber McGray

For more exciting Core'dinations' news, be sure to follow the link above to their blog.

Next on my blogging list today is an announcement from Scrapbook & Cards Today.

Also, on the Scrapbook & Cards Today blog, you will find these two projects of mine in honour of National Scrapbooking Day...which is today.
Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock and Sand-It Gadget tool, Jillibean Soup kraft paper, My Mind's Eye patterned paper, ribbon, diecut and dimensional sticker, Maya Road chipboard butterfly and trinket pin, Stampin' Up! embossing butterflies die and binder punch, EK Success border punch, Xyron Creatopia (to adhere ribbon), Helmar layering tape, Deco Art paint, other: sewing machine and thread. This layout is based on a PageMap's sketch from by spring 2011 issue of Scrapbook & Cards Today.
Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock and Sand-It Gadget tool, Jillibean Soup kraft card base, My Mind's Eye patterned paper and ribbon, Fiskars grass border punch, Stampin' Up! binder punch, EK Success flower punches (for clouds), Maya Road chipboard and trinket pin, Helmar layering tape, Hero Arts stamp, Tsukineko ink, other: sewing machine and thread. This card is based on a sketch from the CardMaps Today issue.

Sorry for your loss...

2011-04-27T09:00:00.002-04:00

These are always the hard cards to make.

Here's one that I recently made for a friend who lost her dog.

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock and Sand-It Gadget tool, Jillibean Soup kraft cardstock base, My Mind's Eye patterned paper, Hero Arts stamp, Tsukineko ink (VersaFine), Fiskars heart punch and grass border punch, and Helmar layering tape.

Technique Tuesday

2011-04-26T09:00:00.003-04:00

It's time for another 3T Tuesday with me over at the Scrapbook & Cards Today blog. If you head over there today you can check out my little trick to making these Core'dinations/WhiteWash clouds - it's my go-to method for little clouds on cards and layouts.

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock and Sand-It Gadget tool, Jillibean Soup kraft card base and twine, My Mind's Eye patterned paper, Fiskars heart punch and grass border punch, EK Success flower punches (for clouds), Creative Impressions mini-clothes pegs, Helmar layering tape, Cricut cartridge ("New Arrival"), Melissa Frances rubon.
Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock and Sand-It Gadget tool, Jillibean Soup twine, My Mind's Eye patterned papers, Maya Road chipboard tag and wooden bingo motif, Martha Stewart butterfly and cornflower punch, Fiskars grass border punch, EK Success flower punches (for clouds), Uniball pen, Hero Arts stamp, Tsukineko ink (VersaFine).

Happy Easter!

2011-04-24T23:23:00.004-04:00

Here's a quick card that I made this morning. I recently bought a bunch of baker's twine through The Twinery. They had an awesome 8-pack of twines in a variety of colours which of course I had to have. I discovered, while making this card, that:

baker's twine is best "finished off" by knotting the ends in order to prevent fraying.

to break up the spirling of colours, add a coordinating brad to the center of a bow by splitting it open and wrapping it around the core of the bow.

I hope you had a great Easter weekend with your family and friends.Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Core Impressions - Basic Grey Collection and Snowflake white) and Sand-it Gadget tool, Jillibean Soup kraft card base, We R' Memory Keepers patterned paper, The Twinery baker's twine, Queen & Co. brad, Fiskars layering tape, other: sewing machine and thread.

Spring?

2011-04-17T15:06:00.005-04:00

It is currently snowing outside.

I am really starting to doubt whether or not spring has really arrived.

I made this layout which appeared on the Jillibean Soup blog last week.

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Grass Greens), Jillibean Soup patterned paper, kraft paper, Journaling Sprout, corrugated shapes, Bean Blossoms (buttons with twine), twine, and ribbon, Xyron Creatopia (to apply adhesive to the ribbon and deckle cutting blade for grass), 3L kraft photo corner, Font: Mason, other: sewing machine and thread.

Jenni Bowlin card action

2011-04-13T22:10:00.007-04:00

There is always something fun going on over at the Core'dinations' blog. Giveaways, blog hops, techniques and tons of inspiration. Last week featured Jenni Bowlin Core Impressions. There were layouts, cards and even a mini-album. Here's a card that I made. It's based on a sketch from the new CardMaps Today issue put out by Becky Fleck (PageMaps) and Scrapbook & Cards Today. Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Jenni Bowlin Core Impressions) and Sand-It Gadget tool, Jenni Bowlin patterned paper and rubon, Jillibean Soup kraft paper and corrugated shapes, Marvy scalloped punch, Stampin' Up! label punch, Fiskars layering tape, other: sewing machine and thread. This card is based on a sketch from CardMaps Today. If you are attending CreativFestival this weekend you can pick up a copy of the new CardMaps Today issue at the Scrapbook & Cards Today booth. Hope to see you there on Saturday when I will be offering make and takes at 10:30am, 1:30pm and 3:30pm for Scrapbook & Cards Today.

A card, a layout and a statement

2011-04-11T20:04:00.015-04:00

Today this card went up on the Jillibean Soup blog...
Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock, Jillibean Soup patterned paper, kraft paper and diecuts, ProvoCraft/Cricut cartridge (Hoot 'n' Holler) and Cricut machine, Fiskars layering tape, other: sewing machine and thread.

Last week this layout went up on the Jillibean Soup blog... Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Core Impressions - Jillibean Soup Collection) and Sand-It Gadget tool, Jillibean Soup patterned paper, diecuts and kraft alpha stickers, K & Company chipboard, We R' Memory Keepers Corner Chomper, 3L kraft photo corner, other: sewing machine and thread. This layout is based on a bonus PageMaps sketch by Becky Fleck in the spring issue of Scrapbook & Cards Today.

Finally, I must say, this past weekend's ScrapFest in Kitchener, ON, was perhaps the best one yet! I have been to a lot of ScrapFests over the past years and this one proved to have the best make and takes on the VIP night and the Saturday, the best dressed booths, and an energy that was great to see after all my years of scrappin'. My class on the Saturday night from 5:30pm until 7:30pm was a delight to teach and I look forward to hearing from those that took my class with final images of their layouts once they've added their photos. Git 'er done, girls. ;0

I am really looking forward to this upcoming weekend at CreativFestival in Toronto, ON. Be sure to drop by the Scrapbook & Cards Today booth to say, "Hi!" if you are planning on going.

A quick card set

2011-04-04T07:55:00.007-04:00

Morning!

By now most of you have figured out my news...I am now a design team member for Scrapbook & Cards Today magazine! I am extremely honoured and excited to be a part of this team as Scrapbook & Cards Today has inspired me since it showed up in my local scrapbooking store five years ago.

Next, here are two cards that I made as part of my last month with Jillibean Soup. I decided that I would not reapply for their recent design team call as I don't want too much on my plate. I will always use Jillibean Soup products in my scrapping though since Jill's creative brain is just too "bang on" for what I love...bright colours, fun designs and, above all else, kraft paper.

Supplies: Jillibean Soup patterned paper, kraft card base and kraft paper, diecuts and corrugated shape, Unity Stamp Company stamps, Tsukineko ink, Stampin' Up! border punch, Glue Dot, other: pins and thread.

Finally, if you haven't heard yet, Core'dinations ColorCore Cardstock is holding a design team call from now until Friday, April 15, 2011 (4:00pm EST). Find all the details here.

Happy birthday, Scrapbook & Cards Today!

2011-03-30T09:24:00.000-04:00

Scrapbook & Cards Today magazine just turned 5! This past summer, when my son turned 9, we celebrated with a LEGO party and I made a little (2 1/2" x 5") mini-album to mark the occasion. Here's a little peek at the cover but you really should check out the whole album by heading over to the Scrapbook & Cards Today blog. Really. You should. Go there now. ;0) Supplies: Jillibean Soup patterned paper, cardstock stickers, diecuts, and journaling sprouts, Helmar 450 glue, Fiskars paper crimper and layering tape, We R' Memory Keepers Crop-a-Dile and Corner Chomper, Glue Dots, other: 1" binder rings, and pins.

The spring issue has sprung up!

2011-03-25T09:29:00.005-04:00

The spring issue of Scrapbook & Cards Today went up today on-line and is also available at your local scrapbooking store. It's free and you can download a copy of it by clicking here.

Inside the issue, on page 6, you will find my version of the cover layout. It features the new Blossom Soup line by Jillibean Soup, some Core'dinations cardstock, and some painted Maya Road chipboard for the title.

Even though it's currently -8 degrees Celsius outside....Happy Spring!

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock, Jillibean Soup patterned paper, Sugar Pick butterfly pin, and corrugated clouds, Maya Road chipboard letters, Making Memories paint, October Afternoon journaling stickers, Sizzix border strip dies, Fiskars layering tape, Font: EditorCndn, other: deckle edge scissors. Photo by Marla Kress.

17 more sleeps!

2011-03-22T08:05:00.000-04:00

Only 17 more sleeps until ScrapFest! Today, over on the Scrapbook & Cards Today blog, I have all my make and takes and class images posted with some helpful hints about using rub-ons.

Although my class is now sold out, here's what the double-layout and card look like:

Supplies: Core’dinations cardstock, Sand-It Gadget tool and Dust Buddy, Fancy Pants patterned paper, rub-ons, and cardstock stickers, Cuttlebug/ProvoCraft paper twilling die, Sizzix border die, Stampin’ Up! button embossing die, Xyron Sticker Maker, Fiskars layering tape, Tsukineko ink, Glue Dots, Font: Mason, other: kraft paper, sewing machine, thread and date stamp. This layout is based on a sketch by Becky Fleck from Scrapbook PageMaps 2.

Sold out!

2011-03-17T10:57:00.003-04:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Yesterday I put the finishing touches on my double page layout and card class for ScrapFest. I was looking forward to sharing the images with you...and I will be on Tuesday, March 22, 2o11, on the Scrapbook & Cards Today blog....but it turns out the class is now sold out.
Anyhoo, here's a little sneaky peek to hold you over until Tuesday:

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock and Sand-it Gadget, Fancy Pants patterned paper, rubons and cardstock stickers, Jillibean Soup kraft paper, Sizzix border die, ProvoCraft/Cuttlebug flower quilling die, Fiskars layering tape, Xyron sticker maker, and Font: Mason. This layout is based on a sketch by Becky Fleck from Scrapbook PageMaps 2.

Maya Road March Madness!

2011-03-09T22:45:00.003-05:00

From March 14th to March 18th, be sure to drop by the Core'dinations' blog and check out a bunch of inspiring projects using Core'dinations cardstock.
Also, next week I am off on March Break! No school so that means lots of cutting and pasting!

ScrapFest class...going, going...

2011-03-03T21:23:00.008-05:00

I got a final confirmation email today that my class at ScrapFest in Kitchener, ON, on Saturday, April 9th, was going up on the ScrapFest site. I just went to the website to check it out and there are only 9 spots left. It's more than 50% sold out! Yikes! (as on Sat. March 5 - 5 spots left)

So....here's the info:

It's So Many Things" Workshop (image coming soon!)
Date: Saturday, April 9th, 2011

Time: 5:30pm-7:30pm (2 hours)

Skill level: Beginner and up

Price: $45.00 +HST (this DOES NOT include passes to the Marketplace

Class description

Come make one double page layout and a beautiful matching card using the BRAND NEW Core Impre ssion Fancy Pants cardstock by Core'dinations and the BRAND NEW Fancy Pant's line "It's the Little Things". The layout is based on a sketch from Becky Fleck's book Scrapbook PageMaps 2 AND you have a chance to win a free copy. The card is based on a sketch from the BRAND NEW CardMaps Today special issue AND you have a chance to win a free copy. Whether you create a layout of yourself and your scrapbooking BFF, a layout of you and your mom, or a layout of you and your children, this class has A LOT to offer. See, it's just so many things!

For more information about what you need to bring to the class, please visit this site.

Sponsors: Scrapbook and Cards Today, PageMaps, Core'dinations, Fancy Pants

Big card news

2011-03-01T18:28:00.003-05:00

No, Kimber, I haven't made another one of my honkin' huge cards.

This "big card news" is that I have 6 cards appearing in the CardMaps Today special issue which is due out at the end of March. You can pre-order a copy today by clicking here.

Here's a little sneak peek of the cover and an example of one of the double pages:

Love you snow much

2011-02-22T09:00:00.000-05:00

Today, over on the Scrapbook & Cards Today blog, I have a tutorial on how to make a God's eye out of Jillibean Soup Sugar Picks (pins) and a pleated kraft paper border, just like I made on my "Snow Day" layout below. Here's the "Love You Snow Much" card that I made to accompany these techniques:

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Chocolate Box and Core Impressions - Jillibean Soup Collection) and Sand-It Gadget tool, Jillibean Soup printed kraft paper, Sugar Picks and kraft paper, Fiskars heart punches and layering tape, Quickutz letter dies, DMC embroidery thread, We R' Memory Keepers Corner Chomper, other: sewing machine and thread.

Happy Family Day

2011-02-21T18:41:00.007-05:00

From our family to yours...

Happy Family Day 2011

Little Miss Sunshine

2011-02-17T08:00:00.000-05:00

Not only one of my most favourite movies of all time but also a new favourite layout of mine. This layout features my own little sunny girl, Ema. It also features the new Blossom Soup collection by Jillibean Soup AND Core'dinations cardstock.

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Essentials), Jillibean Soup kraft paper, patterned paper, corrugated shapes, corrugated alphas and cardstock border and letter stickers, Stampin' Up! binder punch, ProvoCraft/Cuttlebug paper quilling dies, Glue Dots, Technique Tuesday stamps, Tsukineko ink and Fiskars layering tape. This layout is based on a sketch from the Scrapbook & Cards Today/PageMaps 2011 calendar.

The Core'dinations cardstock works perfectly with the paper flower quilling dies by ProvoCraft/Cuttlebug.
Note: These flowers are made with the "Daisy" quilling kit by ProvoCraft/Cuttlebug and some Glue Dots.

Magnetic teeny-tiny Jillibean Soup birdhouses

2011-02-16T08:00:00.000-05:00

My fridge is lookin' fine with these little beauties stuck to it. I have completely used up my stash of the new Jillibean Soup Blossom Soup collection. It's a problem. Thank goodness Blossom Soup began shipping yesterday to local scrapbooking stores.

Supplies: Jillibean Soup patterned paper, Making Memories paint (Cranberry red, Monarch orange, Meadow green, Rose Petal pink and Cornflower blue), 3M Quick Dry glue, Elmer's magnets, Helmar 450 Quick Dry glue, other: foam brush, wooden birdhouses from my local Len's Mills craft store (5 for $1).

Jillibean Soup drink coasters....oh, yeah, I did.

2011-02-15T08:00:00.001-05:00

Attention all Jillibean Soup fans, now you can head off to a crop and know that you won't be leaving wet cup marks on the crafting table. Other scrappers will not scorn you; they will marvel at your stylishness.
All you need is a circle cutting system or punches, your favourite Jillibean Soup patterned paper, coordinating Journaling Sprouts, matching Core'dinations cardstock, some cheap cork coasters, Helmar 450 Quick Dry glue and a laminator.
Drink them up, my scrapping friends!

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Essentials - French Roast brown), Jillibean Soup patterned paper and Journaling Sprouts (Pasta Fagioli collection), Helmar 450 Quick Dry glue, 3M laminator, Creative Memories circle cutting system, Marvy 3" circle punch, other: cork coasters (6 for $1.00 at local dollar store).

36 quick and easy Valentines....done!

2011-02-13T18:04:00.006-05:00

This year, in order to save a little bit of time, I used PrintMaster Gold to create some quick and easy Valentines for Ema to give to her friends and teachers.

PrintMaster Gold is a program that a dear friend bought for me when I finished teacher's college....some 15 years ago. It offers templates for calendars, newsletters, brochures, letterhead, and, in this case, business cards. I used the "Business Card" feature to create 10 Valentines per sheet of 8 1/2 x 11" kraft paper. The finished size is then 2" x 3 1/2" and I punched a hole in the top left corner in order to string the ribbon through. Ema punched two "funky" Fiskars hearts out of Core'dinations Snowflake white cardstock and Jenni Bowlin Poinsettia Posies Core Impressions cardstock.

I then loaded each organza bag with three Hersey Kisses. The organza bags were 12 for $1.39 at my local Len's Mills store.

And....done!

P.S. Ema included an "X" and "O" after her name. So, no, I haven't got a daughter named Emaxo. ;0)

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstocks and Sand-It Gadget tool, Jillibean Soup kraft paper, Fiskars funky heart punches and layering tape, We R' Memory Keepers Crop-a-Dile hole punch, PrintMaster Gold business card program, Wilton organza sachets, EK Success black marker, Font: Mason, other: Hersey Kisses (3 per bag).

Snow, snow, snow

2011-02-10T08:00:00.000-05:00

Here's a design team project of mine for Jillibean Soup this month. So far this school year our kids have missed four days due to snow. This layout is based on photos that I took on our first Snow Day back in December 2010.
Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Core Impressions - Jillibean Soup Collection), Bazzill cardstock (white), Jillibean Soup patterned paper, kraft paper, cardstock stickers, Sugar Picks pins, corrugated alphas, Fiskars heart punch and layering tape, Quickutz letter dies (DAY), Stampin' Up! binder punch, DMC embroidery thread, Glue Dots, Font: Mason, other: sewing machine and thread.

And, yes, that's an old school God's Eye that I made for the snowflake. I used 6 Sugar Picks pins by Jillibean Soup as the base.

More Blossom Soup projects!

2011-02-07T08:00:00.001-05:00

Today I am back with even more projects using the new Blossom Soup collection by Jillibean Soup. This line was just released at winter CHA in California and my stash is almost gone.
The paper cupcakes are from a Hot Off the Press template that I bought up in Perth, ON, at The Happy Scrapper store.

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Vintage Ruby for "cherries" and heart), Jillibean Soup patterned paper, kraft paper, corrugated shaper (butterfly), ribbon and diecut, Maya Road trinket pin (covered), Glue Dot, Hot Off the Press cupcake template, Tim Holtz mini-stapler and Helmar layering tape.

Early spring? Sounds good!

2011-02-06T16:00:00.003-05:00

This past week the groundhogs (several of them....so it must be true!) prophetized that an early spring is on its way. Sounds good to me, especially since almost another foot of snow fell last night in our area.

I made these four butterflies this past Wednesday afternoon when we were home due to a Snow Day. I found the unpainted wooden butterfly clothes pegs with magnets on the back at Len's Mills Store in Woodstock, ON. I traced the butterflies onto new Blossom Soup patterned paper by Jillibean Soup. I hand cut them smaller by about 1/4". I then painted the wood with some Making Memories paint.

Ema has claimed them all for her room.

Supplies: Jillibean Soup patterned paper and diecuts, Making Memories paint, Fiskars layering tape, Helmar craft glue, other: wooden butterfly clothes pegs (Len's Mills Stores).

Snow flaky - did you miss it?

2011-01-30T16:57:00.007-05:00

In this month's issue of ScrapStreet Magazine (January 2011) they published my "Snow Flaky" layout. I had to pull the image from my blog several months ago but thought I would be inspiring for you for a winter layout. Be sure to check out the other two layouts that they selected for being "Snow Creative".

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock, Jillibean Soup patterned paper, printed kraft paper, Cool Beans buttons, twine corrugated alphas, cardstock stickers and Sugar Pick pins, Maya Road chipboard, Queen & Co. pearls, Making Memories paint, Quickutz letter dies, Xyron sticker maker, Stampin' Up! binder punch, EK Success circle punch, Making Memories sanding block, Helmar layering tape, Font: Mason and other: sewing machine and thread. This layout is based on a sketch by PageMaps from the fall 2010 issue of Scrapbook & Cards Today.

Jillibean Soup CHA Show & Share

2011-01-29T11:56:00.011-05:00

Didn't you just love your Show & Share day at school when you were a kid?

I did.

I'd brush up some poor Barbie's hair, put her in a cute little outfit and ram her into my backpack all the whilte thinking I was the only one in the world that had that particular Barbie.

Well, although there are several Jillibean Soup design team members who worked on the new lines being released at winter CHA (and you can find a list of them on the Jillibean Soup blog), I was assigned the job of creating a layout using the new "Spotted Owl Soup" collection.

Supplies: Jillibean Soup patterned paper, corrugated shapes, cardstock letter stickers and cardstock stickers, Fiskars layering tape, Font: Mason, other: googlie eye, sewing machine and thread.

I also made two cards. The first one uses the new "Dutch Mustard Soup" collection:Supplies: Jillibean Soup patterned paper, corrugated shapes, corrugated alphas/numbers, cardstock stickers, and kraft paper, Marvy scalloped circle punch, Fiskars layering tape, other: sewing machine and thread.

Finally, here's a card I made with the new "Chilled Strawberry Soup" line:Supplies: Jillibean Soup patterned kraft paper, cardstock letter stickers and border sticker, corrugated alphas, kraft paper and twine and Fiskars layering tape.

Now, keep in mind, this is just the tip of the iceberg of all the new products being released by Jillibean Soup. For a complete viewing, please visit the Jillibean Soup blog and start scrolling.

Giveaway reminder...and CHA hot tip!

2011-01-28T09:39:00.002-05:00

Today is the last day that you can enter to win some brand-spankin'-new Tim Holtz/Ranger cardstock that Core'dinations is releasing at winter CHA this weekend.
Scroll on down to this entry to be in to win!
Also, since CHA starts tomorrow I will be able to share a layout and two cards that I made with some new collections by Jillibean Soup. Whee!

Another CHA-bound project

2011-01-27T21:57:00.005-05:00

I should be clear about this.

My cutting and pasting is CHA-bound. Not me.

Here's a card that I made for the Core'dinations' booth. It uses Core Essentials cardstock which is their original line of cardstock. Each Core Essentials colour is part of a colour family for easy matching. Each color family has 4 Core Essentials ranging from light to dark. No white core...just a delicious matching core.

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock, Jillibean Soup twine, Pebbles Inc. rubon, ProvoCraft/Cuttlebug paper quilling flower die, Glue Dots, Fiskars layering tape, and EK Success black marker. This card is based on a bonus sketch in the 2011 Scrapbook & Cards Today/PageMaps calendar.

Joy...it rhymes with boy

2011-01-27T07:41:00.004-05:00

Here's a baby card that I made for a friend who had her first baby in October but I only got to meet her new little man yesterday. He was a real little cutie-pie!

On the inside I hand-stamped "...it rhymes with boy." to go with the "Joy" on the front.

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock, Jenni Bowlin patterned papers, Jillibean Soup kraft paper and twine, Maya Road chipboard letters, Scrapbook Memories (The Scrapbook Studio) chipboard elephant, Making Memories paints, We R' Memory Keepers Crop-a-Dile hole punch.

Scrapbook and Cards Today tutorial day - Whee!

2011-01-25T10:03:00.004-05:00

Today, over on the Scrapbook & Cards Today blog, you will find my tutorial using the new Core Impressions Collection that Core'dinations is releasing at winter CHA. Be sure to drop by and check out the tricks and tips I share to make this card:

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock, Sand It Gadget tool, and Dust Buddy, Basic Grey patterned paper, cardstock stickers and letter stickers, Jillibean Soup kraft paper, Spellbinders dragonfly die, Fiskars layering tape, other: sewing machine and thread.

CHA-bound layout

2011-01-24T10:26:00.004-05:00

Here's a layout that I made for Core'dinations for their booth at winter CHA. It features the Core Impressions Collections from Cosmo Cricket. I also used some Cosmo Cricket Pixie-Licious chipboard. Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Core Impressions and Core Essentials) and Sand It Gadget sanding block, Cosmo Cricket chipboard, Quickutz letter dies, Helmar layering tape, Stampin' Up! binder punch, Font: Mason, other: sewing machine and thread.

Reminder, if you haven't already, be sure to enter the Tim Holtz/Ranger giveaway. Core'dinations and Tim Holtz/Ranger have teamed up for two great collection sets. Scroll down for the entry. Please note: This contest is only open to US and Canadian residents.

Another Core'dinations contest!

2011-01-22T14:33:00.004-05:00

Yep.

Wanna get your mitts on some of the new Core'dinations being released at winter CHA next week? Core'dinations has teamed up with Tim Holtz and Ranger and put together 2 collection packs.

The contest runs between now and January 28, 2011. Just click on the image below and you can enter. FYI - this contest is open to residents of Canada and the US.

Basic Grey meets Core'dinations....YUM!

2011-01-19T09:18:00.009-05:00

Today, over on the Core'dinations' blog, they are featuring one of the two new Basic Grey Core Impressions Collections that they are releasing at winter CHA. Here's the collection:

The other night I was able to play with a few papers from this collection and came up with this layout of Ema and her little friend, Charlotte. I also got to use the new Sand It Gadget tool that Core'dinations has made for sanding their cardstock. It comes with replacement pads so it keeps your cost down in the long run. Love that!

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock and Sand It Gadget tool, Basic Grey patterned paper and embellishments, Stampin' Up binder punch, Fiskars layering tape, other: sewing machine and thread.

If you'd like to win one of the new Core Impressions Collection packs, be sure to scroll down for my posting on how to win. You have until Friday, January 21, 2011, to be in to win!

Also, check back with me on Tuesday, January 25, 2011, when I will be featuring another project using the new Core Impressions lines. It's something special that I am cooking up for Tips and Technique Tuesdays for Scrapbook & Cards Today.

A fun, fun, fun card

2011-01-15T13:51:00.004-05:00

I have been cutting and pasting like a fiend for Winter CHA and, while I can't share anything just yet, I did make a card the other day which makes me very happy. I used some Maya Road chipboard shapes and letters and put this little "I Miss You" card together pretty quickly using Core'dinations cardstock.

Who do you wish would pick a mode of transport and come and visit you?

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Vintage), Maya Road chipboard shapes and letters, Making Memories paint, Helmar layering, other: sewing machine and thread.

Core'dinations contest! Winter CHA prizes!!!

2011-01-14T17:56:00.004-05:00

Core'dinations has paired up yet again with some pretty amazing companies (Basic Grey, Fancy Pants, Jenni Bowlin Studios and My Mind's Eye) to bring you 5 new Core Impressions collection packs. These packs contain 20 sheets each of 12x12 pre-embossed cardstock which you can sand, tear or leave alone.
Please note: This contest is only open to Canadian and US residents. This contest ends on Friday, January 21, 2011.

Tired of winter yet?

2011-01-04T09:33:00.004-05:00

I am.

Four new inches of snow this morning.

The shovel seems to be the only one excited to see more snow now.

In memory of summer, which is now only 6 months away, here are some Pool Party invites that I made with some Helmar layering tape and tape runner.

Be sure to drop by the Core'dinations blog this week for the Helmar/Core'dinations blog swap. There are prizes to be won!

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Core Essentials and Vintage), Helmar layering tape and tape runner, EK Success flip flop punch, Jillibean Soup twine, We R' Memory Keepers Crop-a-Dile (hole punch), SRM stickers ("pool party"), EK Success/Stampin' Up circle and scalloped circle punches, other: sewing machine and thread.

Oh, joy....framed love

2011-01-03T09:38:00.007-05:00

This week (January 3 - 7) there is a blog swap going on between Core'dinations and Helmar...and there are PRIZES!
Helmar, if you don't already know about them, offer up great adhesives and, a favourite of mine, layering tape! Yes. It's true. I have a serious addiction to layering tape. I find it adds dimension to my work and, in the case of this frame, allows light to cast a shadow on raised elements.
Here's a frame that I made for Ema's new "big girl room". I used a frame from IKEA (I think I paid less than $10 for it) and Core'dinations cardstock. Several of the butterflies have layering tape added to the back of their wings. I also used my Helmar tape runner to adhere the body/torso section of the butterfly directly to the background. This helps to emphasize the fluttering of the wings. Jillibean Soup corrugated letters look even better with a little layering tape placed behind them as well. ;0)Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Core Essentials and Vintage), Helmar layering tape and tape runner, Jillibean Soup corrugated alphas, ProvoCraft/Cuttlebug butterfly dies and embossing folders, Sizzix/Stampin' Up! butterfly embossing die, texture plate and border branch die, IKEA frame and Making Memories sanding block.

Heads up, buttercup!

2011-01-02T15:09:00.005-05:00

Here's a link to the Core'dinations blog.
Here's a link to the Helmar blog.

Remember 2010...with a mini-album

2011-01-01T11:46:00.008-05:00

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock, Jillibean Soup patterned paper, journaling sprout, corrugated alphas, sugar picks and kraft accordion album, Studio Calico stamps, Tsukineko ink, Helmar layering tape, Glue Dots, Making Memories sanding block and Spellbinders butterfly die.

Here's a quick little mini-album that you can put together in a night.

Step 1: Buy yourself two 4" kraft accordion albums by Jillibean Soup. Glue them together so that you have a strip long enough for a cover, back cover and 12 photos.

Step 2: Pick a line of double-sided paper that you like and buy one sheet of each. There are usually 6 papers in a line. For this project I used Pasta Fagioli by Jillibean Soup.

Step 3: Cut your papers so that you have at least two 3 3/4" squares of each paper. I used an additional four squares for the front and back covers of one of the papers as well.

Step 4: Print off a photo for each month. Edit and trim photos so that they measure approximately 3" wide by 3 1/4" high. Try to pick photos with an area where the monthly stamped word will fit.

Step 5: Stamp each month onto each photo using VersaFine by Tsukineko. It's my favourite ink...by far! The month stamps I used are by Studio Calico. Sadly, I don't see them for sale on their site anymore. You could also use letter stickers or, before you print off your photos, add the months by overlapping a text box on to each photo.

Step 6: Create the cover using Jillibean Soup corrugated alphas, journaling sprout and a sugar pick for the body of the butterfly. I used Core'dinations Core Impressions (Jillibean Soup Collection) and a Spellbinders' butterfly die....but you could easily use a punch.

I need to print off some photos for November and December today and get this album in the "done" pile on my crafting table.

Happy New Year! May 2011 bring more "done" items in your own piles. ;0)

Here we come, 2011

2010-12-31T11:06:00.003-05:00

We hope that 2011 will be kind to us.

We hope that 2011 will be kind to our family and friends.

We hope that 2011 will offer up good health, happiness and time to enjoy them.

Happy New Year to all!

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Snowflake white), Jillibean Soup kraft paper, printed paper, journaling sprouts, canvas stars, twine and corrugated alphas, Queen & Co. pearls, Sizzix/Stampin' Up! snowflake border die, Helmar layering tape, other: sewing machine and thread.

Boxing Day box...get it? Boxing Day? Box?

2010-12-26T19:49:00.004-05:00

Yeah. I know. It's corny.

Here's a festive box that I made for our front hallway table. Inside the box is a dollar store LED closet light. It does not produce any heat so it beats a tea light in this case.

If you would like detailed instructions on how to make this little beauty, be sure to drop by the Core'dinations blog.

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Abracadabra Black Magic), Maya Road chipboard houses and rubons, Sizzix/Basic Grey embossing folder, Uniball white pen, Helmar layering tape, Making Memories sanding block and paint, Michael's kraft take out box, other: LED closet light and vellum.

Last minute Christmas tag idea, anyone?

2010-12-24T08:43:00.007-05:00

Here's a Christmas tag that I made using some leftover bits from sheets of corrugated alphas by Jillibean Soup. I love corrugated alphas...a lot. Here's the sets that you'll need...tell Santa!

I used the pop outs from two "e"s for Rudolph's teeth, and a pop out oval for his nose and additional little circles for the holly berries.
I then used this FREE dingbat for the head but had to add in his neck and lower jaw with a black marker.
Cute, ain't he?

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (French Roast brown), Jillibean Soup kraft paper, printed paper, corrugated alphas and twine, Helmar layering tape, EK Success letter stamps, Tsukineko ink, Quickutz holly die, Sizzix branch die (for antlers), We R' Memory Keepers Crop-a-Dile (hole punch), Font: Mason, Dingbat: Beestings, other: black marker.

Head's up, Buttercup! Over on the Jillibean Soup blog today, Jill posted a bit of a teaser for the new winter CHA release. Mmmm....

Core'dinations card...and Christmas giveaway!

2010-12-22T10:39:00.003-05:00

Alright, if you haven't been there yet or even if you have, check out the Core'dinations blog today, tomorrow and Friday for the last three days of their 12 Days of Christmas giveaway. They are giving away a prize every day...every day! They are also showing some pretty great techniques using Core'dinations cardstock. Prepare to be inspired!

Today I have a card that I made using my wavy Fiskars' paper crimper. Yeah, baby...old school! Put that together with WhiteWash cardstock (Cellar Door in this case) by Core'dinations and you've got yourself a pretty sweet wintery snowscape (snowscape...it that a real word?).

Enjoy!

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Snowflake Core Essentials, Cellar Door WhiteWash and Ruby Vintage), Fiskars wavy paper crimper, Stampin' Up!/Sizzix snowflake border die, Pebbles Inc. rubon, Helmar layering tape, Making Memories sanding block, other: sewing machine and thread.

O' Christmas card, O' Christmas card...

2010-12-20T10:22:00.009-05:00

...how lovely that you're finished!

This year I sent out 85+ Christmas cards. I ended up with two versions as I ran out of supplies for card #1. The cards were designed to fit in a #10 business envelope (4 1/8" x 9 1/2"). I found 100 of those envelopes at my local Len's Mills store for under $7 and they looked a lot like kraft paper. I would strongly suggest investing in an address stamp. Last year I had one made at a UPS store here in Woodstock for about $30. It's saves A LOT of handwriting and, the fact that it's self-inking, means I will have it for many, many more years to come.

Reminder: If you haven't checked out the giveaways over on the Core'dinations blog you should go there now!

Version #1 Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Core Impressions - Jillibean Soup and Vintage), Jillibean Soup kraft paper, printed paper, corrugated shape, and twine, Unity Stamp Co. stamp (Jillibean Soup collection), Fiskars border punch, Tsukineko ink, EK Success perforator (to create ink stitches), Making Memories sanding block, We R' Memory Keepers Crop-a-Dile (hole punch) and Helmar layering tape.

Version #2 Supplies: Jillibean Soup kraft paper and printed paper, Unity Stamp Company stamps (Jillibean Soup Collection), Tsukineko ink, other: sewing machine and thread.

Inside Supplies: Jillibean Soup kraft paper and Font: Mason.

Winner, winner, chicken dinner!

2010-12-17T17:21:00.002-05:00

Alright, it's not really a chicken dinner but the "Random Number Generator" thingy gave me this result from the Scrapbook & Cards Today/PageMaps calendar contest:

True Random Number Generator
Result: 1

That makes the winner:
Denise said...
How cool that you are in it. That's huge! I'd love to one! PageMaps rocks! My wish list is new markers. Mine are pretty old and I could use some new ones.
December 3, 2010 8:17 AM

Denise, please drop me a quick email (thehodgees@yahoo.ca) with your mailing address ASAP.

A perfect pet gift

2010-12-14T07:44:00.005-05:00

Looking for a quick and easy present for that furry four-legged friend in your family? Check out my step-by-step instructions on the Jillibean Soup blog today (Tuesday, December 14) on how to make your own designer Jillibean Soup leash and collar.

Supplies: Jillibean Soup printed twill, canvas flower, Cool Bean button, and twine, other: nylon webbing, leash and collar hardware, sewing machine and thread.

Also, if you haven't yet, be sure to drop by the Core'dinations blog this week. AMAZING giveaways each day!!!

Rockin' Christmas card

2010-12-11T00:32:00.006-05:00

Just a quick reminder to drop by the Core'dinations blog ASAP! You may still be able to catch the tail end of the Graphic 45/Core'dinations blog hop AND you will find out about something exciting starting on Monday, December 13 on the Core'dinations blog. Run...don't walk!
Here's a card that I made using some Graphic 45 papers and the new Graphic 45 Core Impressions Collection by Core'dinations:

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Core Impressions - Graphic 45 Collection), Graphic 45 patterned paper, Jillibean Soup kraft paper, Quickutz diecut fashion doll, Tsukineko ink, My Sentiments Exactly stamp, Making Memories sanding block, other: sewing machine and thread.

Lots o' layouts

2010-12-10T07:56:00.004-05:00

Morning!

Today I have two layouts that I can now share. The first is of my husband and his "bucket list". The second is of our new dog, Sorella. She is the August layout in the new Scrapbook & Cards Today/PageMaps 2011 calendar. If you'd like to win a free copy of this calendar (filled with great sketches and amazing layouts) be sure to check out my posting on December 3.

Have a great weekend! My Christmas cards are just about done (only 82 this year) and I will be posting them soon.

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Jillibean Soup - Core Impressions), Jillibean Soup patterned paper, kraft paper, cardstock stickers, cardstock letter stickers, Stampin' Up! binder punch, Making Memories sanding block, Helmar layering tape, Font: Impact, other: sewing machine and thread.

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock, Jillibean Soup patterned paper, Sugar Picks pins, corrugated alphas, cardstock stickers, Journaling Sprouts, kraft paper, Hero Arts stamp, Tsukineko ink (VersaMark), Helmar layering tape, Stampin' Up! border punch, Creative Memories circle cutter, Making Memories sanding block, Font: Mason.

SCT winter issue - and giveaway reminder

2010-12-03T17:33:00.008-05:00

I forgot to mention this morning that the winter 2010 issue of Scrapbook & Cards Today got released today. It is available at your local scrapbooking store or on-line for free!
Here's some projects of mine that appear in the winter issue:

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock, Jillibean Soup kraft paper and printed grid paper, Fiskars Everywhere Punch (circle) and bird punch, Sizzix branch die, We R' Memory Keepers Corner Chomper, Uniball white pen, Helmar layering tape and Making Memories sanding block.

This layout of mine was also published in the winter issue as a reminder of the next issue...SPRING 2011! I love the idea of looking forward to spring at this point of the year.

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock, Jillibean Soup corrugated alphas, Technique Tuesday stamps, Martha Stewart butterfly punch, Tsukineko ink, Helmar layering tape and Making Memories sanding block.

If you scroll down you will also find that I am offering a giveaway of the 2011 SCT/PageMaps calendar.

SCT - PageMaps Calendar GIVEAWAY!

2010-12-03T07:00:00.000-05:00

The 2011 SCT-PageMaps Sketch Calendar is here! I am very honoured to have been asked to be a part of this calendar. I created the August layout, based on a PageMaps sketch, using Jillibean Soup and Core'dinations cardstock. Be sure to read to the end of this posting to find out how you can win a copy of this calendar by Friday, December 17th.

From the beautiful design to the stunning artwork, from the techniques to the bonus sketches, from the sponsors that provided the designers with great product to the wonderful practicality of the calendar itself—SCT and PageMaps are thrilled to share it with you! This limited edition calendar will be on your bookshelf long after 2011 has come and gone with its 26 never-before-seen PageMaps sketches that will keep you inspired for some time (including CardMaps, too!). This calendar makes a great gift, too! Order by December 14th to ensure your copies arrive in time for gift giving.
And the best part? A portion of the proceeds from the sale of the 2011 SCT-PageMaps Sketch Calendar will be donated to both Canadian and American breast cancer research charities!

Wanna win a copy of this great calendar?
Simply leave your answer to the question below on this blog posting before 12pm EST on Friday, December 17th and you are in to win!
Question: What's on your scrapbooking/cardmaking wish list for this festive season?

Core'dinations meets Graphic 45

2010-11-28T18:15:00.002-05:00

Be sure to mark your calendar. Core'dinations and Graphic 45 have teamed up to bring you some pretty awesome projects from December 6-10, 2010.

Simple festive card set

2010-11-23T07:52:00.004-05:00

Morning!
Sorry I have been missing in action for the past few weeks. I needed some time to recover from the rush of October...but it turns out that November is proving to be just as busy.
Today, over on the Scrapbook & Cards Today blog, I have posted the step-by-step instructions on how to make these 8 (yep, 8!) cards. I used two of my most favourite companies - Core'dinations and Jillibean Soup. Not surprised, are you?

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Core Impressions - Jillibean Soup Collection and Core Essentials), Jillibean Soup journaling sprouts, kraft cards and twine, Maya Road chipboard houses, Making Memories paint (Evergreen) and sanding block, Helmar layering tape and We R' Memory Keepers Corner Chomper and Crop-a-Dile. For complete instructions, visit the Scrapbook & Cards Today blog (Tuesday, November 23, 2010).

Woof! (That's puppy talk for "I love Jillibean Soup!"

2010-10-31T20:10:00.004-04:00

On Friday, over on the Jillibean Soup blog, this project of mine was posted. Be sure to check back on December 13, 2010, on the Jillibean Soup blog when I post step-by-step instructions on how to make your own collar and leash for your pet.
Supplies: Jillibean Soup canvas flowers, polka dot ribbon, red twine, Elan slide release buckle, slide/strap adjuster, swivel snap hook, d-ring, Kenmore sewing machine, Gutermann invisible thread, Coats & Clark thread, Klasse denim needle, other: nylon webbing, large darning needle.

Boo to you!

2010-10-21T08:05:00.004-04:00

Here's a card that I made using some Jillibean Soup Monster Stew papers and letters stickers, and some delicious Core'dinations!

Have a spook-tacular day (Yeah. Corny. I know.)

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Core Impressions - Jillibean Soup), Jillibean Soup printed paper, kraft paper, cardstock stickers, and twine, Cuttlebug/ProvoCraft diecuts and embossing folder, Making Memories sanding block, Glue Arts layering tape, other: googlie eyes.

Cards, cards and more cards

2010-10-18T21:03:00.011-04:00

CreativFestival is just around the corner and I am packing up all my class kits and make and takes this week. I hope to see some of you there!

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Core Impressions and Essentials), Jillibean Soup kraft paper and twine, Scenic Route grid paper, Hot Off the Press bird template, Pebbles Inc. rubon, Stampin' Up! leaf punch, Making Memories sanding block, Queen & Co. black pearl, We R' Memory Keepers Corner Chomper, Helmar layering tape, and Creative Memories circle cutter.

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Vintage and Essentials), Jillibean Soup printed paper, kraft paper and cardstock stickers, Fiskars Everywhere Punch and circle punch, Stampin' Up! heart punch, Maya Road trinket pin, Glue Dot and Helmar layering tape.

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Vintage), Jillibean Soup patterned paper and kraft paper, Tsukineko ink (VersaFine), Stampin' Up! heart punch and stamp, Sizzix embossing plate, EK Success marker and perforator (to created inked stitch lines), Maya Road trinket pin, We R' Memory Keepers Crop-a-Dile (hole punch) and Helmar layering tape.

Back from ScrapFest and off to CreativFestival

2010-10-17T21:05:00.010-04:00

This past weekend I was in Oshawa, ON, at ScrapFest and next weekend (Saturday) I will be in Toronto, ON, for the CreativFestival. Scrapbook and Cards Today magazine asked me several months ago for some projects that I could teach and I can never say "No" to Catherine. I had a great time at ScrapFest and thoroughly enjoyed teaching two full make and take classes. A special shout out to the ladies from New Liskeard, ON! There was a group of them that had driven 6 hours at attend the event and they came to both of my make and takes first thing in the morning. I will look forward to meeting up with them again next summer when we travel up to New Liskeard for my Uncle Emmerson's memorial service.

Next weekend you can find me doing more make and takes in Toronto, ON, and a class. Sadly the class is sold out but I still believe there are spots available in the "Paper Playground" event on Saturday (make and takes).

Here are some images from the classes and make and takes that I will be teaching:

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Core Impressions, Vintage, WhiteWash, and Essentials), Jillibean Soup kraft paper, Marvy butterfly punch, EK Success flowers punches, Stampin' Up! heart, circle and scalloped circle punches, Making Memories sanding block and Helmar layering tape.

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Core Impressions and Essentials), Jillibean Soup printed kraft, kraft, twine and cardstock stickers, Hot Off the Press bird template, Stampin' Up! leaf punch, Queen & Co bling, We R' Memory Keepers Corner Chomper, Making Memories sanding block, Helmar layering tape and Creative Memories circle cutter.

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Core Impressions and Essentials), Jillibean Soup patterned paper, kraft paper, cardstock stickers and twine, Quickutz letter dies, Sizzix filmstrip die, Fiskars Everywhere Punch, Xyron sticker maker, EK Success journaling pen, Font: Mason, other: sewing machine and thread. This layout is based on a sketch by Becky Fleck from her new book, PageMaps 2.

P.S. For those of you that have been asking....no, I haven't heard from Elmer's yet about the results from the Elmer's Crafting Challenge. If you would like to check out the other entries in that competition, be sure to check out their projects on their blogs here:
· Linda Scott- http://just-a-scrappin.blogspot.com/2010/09/halloween-mini-album.html
· Tara Kuczykowski- http://dealseekingmom.com/win-it-wednesday-elmers-craft-prize-pack-3-winners/
· Nikki Sivils- http://nikkisdoghouse.blogspot.com/2010/10/nikki-here-with-elmers-craft-challenge.html
· Alicia Thelin- http://scrappybetties.blogspot.com/2010/09/world-card-making-day-challenge-and.html
· Lydia Jackson- http://lidibids-scrapnotions.blogspot.com/2010/09/elmers-not-just-white-glue.html
· Heather Parsons- http://smallfryandco.blogspot.com/2010/10/halloween-candy-can-for-elmers-craft.html
· Denise Sawyer- http://wholesomemommy.com/elmers-craft-project/
· Mercedes Levy- http://www.commonsensewithmoney.com/2010/10/how-to-make-your-own-pinata-part-2-a-giveaway/
· Sammye Jo Singer- http://62cards.blogspot.com/2010/10/elmers-xacto-challenge-project-revealed.html
· Sheena Tatum- http://sophistishe.com/2010/10/family-silhouette-ornaments-on-a-whim/
· Stacey Michaud- http://staceymichaud.blogspot.com/2010/10/elmers-crafting-challenge-giveaway.html
· Shanna Cameron Picard- http://bananastamper.blogspot.com/2010/10/elmers-craft-glue-giveaway.html
· Jo West- http://mypaperplayhouse.blogspot.com/2010/10/elmers-crafters-challenge-my-project.html
· Nicholette Sperry- http://nv-craftenvy.blogspot.com/2010/10/elmers-challenge-trick-or-treat.html
· Dottie Baltz- http://ow.ly/2RDcY

Friggin' favourite layout!

2010-10-14T08:06:00.006-04:00

I gotta tell ya...I am pretty happy with how this layout turned out. It's based on a sketch by Becky Fleck from the fall issue of Scrapbook & Cards Today magazine. It is featured today over on the Jillibean Soup blog.

Enjoy!

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Jillibean Soup Core Impressions), Jillibean Soup patterned paper, printed kraft paper, twine, cardstock stickers, corrugated alphas, Cool Bean button, Sugar Picks pin, Maya Road chipboard snowflakes, Making Memories paint and sanding block, Elmer's layering tape and Glue Spots, Queen & Co. pearl bling, Stampin' Up! binder punch, EK Success circle punch, Quickutz letter dies ("SNOW"), Xyron Sticker Maker (to adhere "SNOW"), Font: Mason, other: sewing machine and thread. This layout is based on a Bonus Sketch by Becky Fleck for Scrapbook & Cards Today magazine.

Winners! Winners! Chicken Dinners!

2010-10-09T09:58:00.006-04:00

Alrighty, Ema and I are here to announce the three winners of the Elmer's/X-ACTO giveaways. Each winner will receive:

X-ACTO:

4-pack Decorative Edge Scissors

Self Healing Mat

Retractable Craft Knife

Craft Swivel Knife

Elmer's CraftBond:

Scrapbooking Tape: Repositionable

Extra Strength Glue Stick

Wet & Dry Dual Glue Pen

Permanent Tape Runner

If all winners can please email us (thehodgees@yahoo.ca) with your full name and shipping address as soon as possible that would be swell.

And the winners are, using that Random Number Generator thingy....

Post #54 - Anonymous said...
That would be great in my scrapbook room; lovely daughter you have : )

Annie-M P, smilinganniem@hotmail.com , Indiana,US

Post #66 -Melody said...
I really like that last picture.

Melodyj(at)gmail(dot)com

Post #79 - Cherylann's "Outta-My-Mind " said...
Love your magazine idea and the topics on the magazine are so cute.

Cherylann

On a final note, I would like to thank all of you for supporting Ema and I with your comments. We had a lot of fun creating the message board together and we are crossing our fingers and toes that Elmer's will pick us for the $1000 donation so we can give it to the Educational Scholarship at the Foundation for Ichthyosis and Related Skin Types.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock, Jillibean Soup kraft paper and twine, October Afternoon patterned paper, Jenni Bowlin letter stickers, Spellbinders leaf dies, Quickutz photo corner die, Sizzix Big Shot diecutting machine, Helmar layering tape, Making Memories sanding block, Font: Mason, Dingbat: Wingdings 2, other: plain kraft paper, sewing machine and thread. This project was posted on the Scrapbook & Cards Today blog on Monday.

Elmer's Crafting Challenge GIVEAWAY!

2010-10-03T19:06:00.022-04:00

WARNING: This is a very long posting...but so worth reading! If you are short on time, scroll to the bottom to find out how you can win...but be sure to come back later to learn how to make a message board for your child's room that rocks!

I am extremely excited and honoured to share with you a project that I created using Elmer's and X-ACTO products which were sent to me a few weeks ago. They had contacted me through email and asked if I would like to participate in the Elmer's Crafting Challenge. As soon as I heard what the prize was I couldn't refuse!

Elmer's and X-ACTO then sent me a personalized storage box filled with all this craftin' goodness:

The enclosed instructions were as follows:

Use the new Elmer's CraftBond and X-ACTO crafting products within this kit to create a craft that matches the theme of your blog by October 8. It can be anything from a family-oriented scrapbooking page layout to a trendy piece of home decor (if you need a little inspiration picking a project, just let us know)! Elmer's will make a $1,000 donation on behalf of the winning blogger to the national educational-based charity of her choice! Elmer's has multiple recommended charities if you need guidance. Don't forget to share your craft with your readers and have fun giving away the three Elmer's prize packages we promised. Good luck!

So, they had me at "Hello." As many of you know, our six-year old daughter, Ema, was born with an extremely rare skin disorder called Ichthyosis, specifically Congenital Ichthyosiform Erythroderma (CIE). Believe it or not, this just happens to be Ichthyosis Awareness Week (October 3-10, 2010)! Also, our foundation (Foundation for Ichthyosis and Related Skin Types - FIRST) has recently announced Educational Scholarships that will soon be available to affected individuals. Given the fact that my husband and I are both teachers, we both agree that if I should win the Elmer's Crafting Challenge, the prize money will be donated to the Educational Scholarship at FIRST.

My brain started cooking the minute I opened the storage box. My blog as always been called "Only in Hollywoodstock", so I started there. We live in Woodstock, ON, Canada, which just happens to be the Dairy Capital of Canada. Yeah. Not very Hollywoodish, is it? Hollywood, to me, represents glamour and pinash (pinash: has a lot of life to it). Ema, from the moment she was born, has had A LOT of life to her. She sings, dances, and has a dramatic flair that many people notice immediately (not just her dear ol' Ma and Pa). I then thought MAGAZINE COVER - not just any magazine cover..."only in HOLLYWOODSTOCK". Here we go!

Step One: Hang a white sheet to a wall in a well light area and take four seasonal portrait shots of your child. If you have a tripod, great...if not you should try and set your camera on a steady surface for the best shot. WARNING: If you ask your child to pick out the outfits be prepared for a HUGE clean up when they are done. *sigh*

Step Two: You will need to purchase a few extra items for this craft. All items can be found at your local Walmart store. In fact, all of the Elmer's and X-ACTO items that are found in the storage tub above can be found at your local Walmart store. ;0) You may also want to consider purchasing a heat laminator or ask around to see if your friends have one you could borrow. I know a lot of businesses and educational stores offer the service of laminating as well. SUGGESTION: I highly recommend NOT taking your kids with you to Walmart. They know where the toy section is...just like homing pigeons know how to find their way home.

Supplies: Elmer's magnets, Expo dry eraser markers and cleaning brush, Homestay push pins and a Magnetic Dry Erase Combo Board by The Board Dudes (available in various sizes).

Step Three: Using your favourite word processing and/or photo editing program, create a blank magazine cover. I used PrintMaster Gold by Broderbund which a dear friend bought for me when I completed teacher's college. I worked in the same font that I used for the banner on my blog (see Matthew burping above). NOTE: Ema would not want me to point this out but be sure to notice the article entitled, "Fashion Tricks: How to Fix a DIY Hairdo" - someone felt she was done with bangs this past summer. *sigh*

Step Four: Print off the blank magazine cover. Laminate. Once cool, trim the excess plastic allowing 1/4" overhang using your 9" X-ACTO Trimmer along the 8 1/2" sides. Dang. I love how this trimmer cuts. Now I need the 12" version. Did you hear that, Santa?

Step Five: Using your X-ACTO Craft Knife, X-ACTO cutting mat and X-ACTO metal ruler, trim the excess lamination (leaving 1/4" overhang) from the 11" sides of the laminated blank magazine cover.

Step Six: Going back to your computer, drop each of the four seasonal photos into the blank magazine file. Print off all four seasonal covers and, using your X-ACTO 9" Trimmer, cut off the magazine title. Laminate each of the four covers, trimming the extra lamination materials as you did in Step Five.

Step Seven: Using your Elmer's Glue Spots and Elmer's magnets, attach a magnet to the back of each of the four laminated seasonal magazine covers. Aim for the top near the center on the back. HELPFUL HINT: If you want to be sure that you've hit center, use your X-ACTO metal ruler to find the center. I'll never tell. ;0)

Step Eight: Using more of the Elmer's Glue Spots, attach the blank magazine cover to the white board section of the message board. You need the strength of the Glue Spots to make sure that the blank magazine cover stays firmly in place. Trust me...once you stick it down with Elmer's Glue Spots it ain't goin' no where!

Step Nine: Go get a snack. You've been working hard. You deserve it. ;0) Also, make sure you remembered to turn off the laminator. Yeah. Learn from my mistake. You can also tidy up now. A great feature to the X-ACTO 9" Trimmer is that you can slide back the surface and stow away a bunch of stuff. Nice!

Step Ten: Bring in the kid again. Ask him or her if they would like to draw a picture of themselves using dry erase markers. This is why you laminated....ahhhh... Here's Ema's version of herself. Note the remarkably accurate depiction of her shirt. Yeah. Smart like her mom, cute like her dad. ;0)

Step Eleven: Call the entire family into the room where the message board will be hung and have them marvel at your masterful crafting. Don't tell them where you learned how to make this message board. They'll never know and I'll never tell. ;0)

Ema's Final Version:

Mom's Final Version:

Of course as soon as I finished taking the photo above Ema promptly removed the "summer" photo and replaced it with the "fall" photo. "Um, it's fall now, Mom," she informed me. *sigh*

Additional Suggestion: While you are busy creating this work of art for your child you may want to consider a craft that they can be working on at the same time. Our craft room has lots of space for Ema and Matthew to be working on something while I am in a crafting frenzy. This past weekend, while I spent four hours making this board for Ema, Ema joined me by painting this lovely picture for her new room. I purchased the set (paints, canvas, tray and brushes) at Walmart and, you bet, Elmer's makes it! Brilliant!

HOW YOU CAN WIN:

As mentioned above, I have been granted three prize packs from Elmer's and X-ACTO to giveaway on Friday, October 8th, 2010. Each prize pack contains:

X-ACTO:

4-pack Decorative Edge Scissors
Self Healing Mat
Retractable Craft Knife
Craft Swivel Knife

Elmer's CraftBond:

Scrapbooking Tape: Repositionable
Extra Strength Glue Stick
Wet & Dry Dual Tip Glue Pen
Permanent Tape Runner

In order to "be in to win", please leave a comment on this blog posting (not Facebook posting). If you don't have a blog, don't worry. Just log your comment as "Anonymous" but be sure to include your name and city (i.e., Marilyn Groom in London, ON). Local, national and international entries are welcome. Also, if you aren't already a "Follower" of our blog, please sign up today. Spread the word! Let your crafting friends and family know that Ema and I will be randomly selecting three winners as soon as we wake up on Saturday, October 9th, 2010. Good luck!

Final Note: On Monday, October 4th, and Wednesday, October 6th, I will be the guest designer over at the Scrapbook & Cards Today blog. Be sure to drop by and see what else my brain has been cookin' up!

Happy World Card Making Day!

2010-10-02T09:08:00.007-04:00

Today, over on the Scrapbook & Cards Today blog, there is a delicious posting of at least twelve cards that were made by twelve different designers (including yours truly) based on twelve different Page Map sketches by Becky Fleck. Another great feature the S&CT blog posting is that there is an AWESOME giveaway as well.
Here's the card that I made but be sure to drop the S&CT blog in order to be in to win! This card features yet another one of my homemade Cool Bean Critters. To see some of my other Cool Bean Critters, click here.

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Jillibean Soup Core Impressions), Jillibean Soup kraft paper, patterned paper, Cool Bean buttons, Bean Seeds felt flowers, Bean Stalks brown twine, corrugated alphas, journaling sprout, and cardstock letter stickers, Helmar layering tape, Glue Dots, Making Memories sanding block, We R' Memory Keepers Corner Chomper, other: sewing machine, thread and googlie eyes. This card is based on a sketch by Becky Fleck.

Pst! A little birdie told me that you should make a point of dropping back here on Monday, October 4th, 2010. I will begin a giveaway contest that will have three winners and the prize packs are pretty impressive. I have been asked to take part in the Elmer's and Xacto's Crafting Challenge and I will be posting my project on Monday. Don't forget!

It's Stacy Julian week! It's Stacy Julian week!

2010-09-28T04:30:00.007-04:00

This week, over at the Core'dinations blog, we are celebrating the release of the new Stacy Julian Core Impressions Happy Colors collection.

Over the weekend I put the final touches on this layout that I made of my daughter, Ema. A few weeks ago she broke her pinkie finger in the back door and they had to put a splint on her whole arm until she could see a hand specialist. She just wears a finger splint now but I loved her spunky and casual attitude towards the whole situation. The other photos are just other snap shots of what makes Ema so friggin' awesome. She's just full of happy colours!

Be sure to drop by the Core'dinations blog this week to check out other projects made by the design team members.

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Stacy Julian Happy Colors Core Impressions collection), Jillibean Soup corrugated alphas, Martha Steward butterfly punch, Making Memories sanding block, Technique Tuesday stamps, Tsukineko ink, Helmar layering tape, and Glue Dots.

My Stamp Box swappin' goodness

2010-09-20T20:50:00.004-04:00

Over at Core'dinations we recently did a product swap with My Stamp Box. They have some pretty cool stamp images and I cooked up this little card using two of their stamp sets (Neighborhoods and Wishing You Sunshine). Be sure to stop by the My Stamp Box blog and the Core'dinations blog and leave a comment on each of the product swap postings - that way you will be in to win! Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Essentials, Vintage, WhiteWash and Black Magic), Jillibean Soup kraft paper, My Stamp Box stamps, Tsukineko ink, Helmar layering tape, Stampin' Up! heart punch, DMC embroidery thread, other: buttons, deckle edge scissors.

A new puppy layout

2010-09-10T14:16:00.004-04:00

Sometime during the past two weeks I made this layout. I was hoping to have had it posted before now but things have been a tad "off the rails" with going back to school.

Enjoy!

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (French Roast brown and Poinsettia red), Jillibean Soup kraft paper and printed twill, October Afternoon patterned paper, journaling card, and cardstock sticker (dog), Basic Grey patterned paper and cardstock stickers ("puppy"), 3L Adhesives layering tape, Sizzix embossing folder (Tim Holtz Collection) and embossing machine (Big Shot), Heidi Swapp edge distresser (to rough up the edge of the French Roast brown cardstock), Making Memories sanding block, Fiskars scalloped heart punch (to create dog bites in the border strip), Cricut die cut machine and cartridge (Accent Essentials), DMC embroidery thread, Font: Mason, other: sewing machine, embroidery needle and thread.

These cards are "A Walk in the Park"

2010-08-31T19:00:00.019-04:00

Here's a fast and easy set of 5 cards that I made for a friend. She is currently trying to raise money to enter a walk to end Breast Cancer in September. The entry fee to participate in this walk is $2 000 a person. Yikes. I made up this set of cards so that she can add them to an auction she is putting together.

Now, here's the best news....to make these 5 cards all you need is:

one sheet of Bahama Blue cardstock (Core'dinations - Essentials)

one sheet of French Roast cardstock (Core'dinations - Essentials)

a scrap of Corner Hutch cardstock (Core'dinations - WhiteWash)

one sheet of each Pathway, Flutter and Element Card Paper from the Echo Park "A Walk in the Park" collection

five kraft cards and envelopes (Jillibean Soup)
one package of Lost Ruby Rox (Queen & Co.)

a variety of butterfly punches and dies (Marvy, Spellbinders, Sizzix, etc.)

a variety of border punches (Fiskars, EK Success, Martha Stewart, etc.)

foam layering tape, Glue Dots and adhesive

sand paper or sanding block

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Bahama Blue and Corner Hutch), Jillibean Soup kraft card, Echo Park patterned paper, Sizzix embossing butterfly die, Queen & Co. Rocs, Glue Dots, Making Memories sanding block, other: layering tape.

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (French Roast and Corner Hutch), Jillibean Soup kraft card, Echo Park patterned paper, Sizzix embossing butterfly die, Fiskars border punch, Queen & Co. Rocs, Glue Dots, Making Memories sanding block, other: layering tape.

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Bahama Blue), Jillibean Soup kraft card, Echo Park patterned paper, EK Success border punch, Spellbinders butterfly die (bottom layer), Marvy embossing butterfly punch (upper layer), Making Memories sanding block, Glue Dots, other: foam layering tape.

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (French Roast and Bahama Blue), Jillibean Soup kraft card, Echo Park patterned paper, Fiskars border punch, Spellbinders embossing butterfly punch (bottom layer), Marvy embossing butterfly punch, Glue Dots, Making Memories sanding block, other: layering tape.

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Bahama Blue), Jillibean Soup kraft card, Echo Park patterned paper, Spellbinders embossing die (bottom layer), Marvy embossing butterfly punch, EK Success border punch, Making Memories sanding block, Glue Dots, other: layering tape.

Playin' with some Queen & Co.

2010-08-26T10:47:00.006-04:00

Core'dinations and Queen & Co. recently did a product trade. The Core'dinations design team members all received a very generous amount of Queen & Co. bling, pearls, chipboard, felt flowers and other such deliciousness. Queen & Co. has recently released a line of embellishments which coordinate with colour families from Core'dinations. It makes scrappin' that much easier!

Here's what I cooked up:

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Vintage Ruby and Black Magic Abracadabra), Jillibean Soup kraft paper and twine, Queen & Co. chipboard and brads, Technique Tuesday stamp, Tsukineko ink, Creative Memories oval cutting system, Sizzix embossing folder and embossing machine, other: pin and darning needle.

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Black Magic and WhiteWash), Jillibean Soup kraft paper, Queen & Co. chipboard, rocs, and felt flower, Maya Road trinket pin, Glue Dots, Helmar layering tape, Technique Tuesday stamp, Tsukineko ink, Sizzix embossing butterfly die, embossing folder (sanded over top in corners) and embossing tool, Making Memories sanding block, Creative Memories oval cutter, other: pin.

Boo to you...and me

2010-08-24T10:45:00.008-04:00

Today, over on the Jillibean Soup blog, this project of mine is posted using the new Monster Stew collection. Lately I have been burning through googlie eyes. Thank goodness I have located a good (a.k.a. cheap) source for them at Zellers. They come in a package with three sizes and they are adhesive backed.

Supplies: Jillibean Soup patterned paper, journaling sprout and cardstock letter stickers, Helmar layering tape, other: black kraft gift bag, googlie eyes, sewing machine and thread.

Today Craig and I are celebrating our 14th wedding anniversary....which is somewhat scary in itself. Fourteen years? Whoa. It's amazing how time flies. Here's the card that I gave him this morning along with a gift certificate for a new fitness centre in Woodstock.

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock, Jillibean Soup kraft paper, corrugated alphas and twine, Sizzix embossing folder, Fiskars "Everywhere Punch" (squares), Glue Arts layering tape and adhesive, Stampin' Up heart punch, Making Memories sanding block and We R' Memory Keepers Crop-a-Dile.

Ema is six...whoa...six

2010-08-22T13:41:00.004-04:00

When did that happen?

All of a sudden my little girl is six. Ready for grade one. Kind. Sweet. Creative.

Yesterday was her party but today is her actual birthday. Little does she know that tonight she will be seeing Justin Bieber in concert in London, ON...floor seats none the less. I am planning on picking up some ear plugs for us both since there is a high chance of screaming girls.

Here is a photo of her "Mermaid Party" table just before the guests arrived. Note the self-trimmed bangs which she lopped off at the end of June. Sadly they aren't growing as fast as I would like.

Supplies for "Sebastian" Place Holders: Core'dinations cardstock (Poinsettia red), Fiskars circle punch, Glue Dots, other: googlie eyes, pipecleaner, deckle edge scissors, and red plastic bowls.

And a birthday would not be complete without a birthday card that took me about an hour to make.

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock, Jillibean Soup kraft paper and corrugated number, My Mind's Eye patterned paper and diecuts, Fiskars "Everywhere Punch" (scalloped circle), Creative Memories circle cutter, Spellbinders butterfly die, Marvy butterfly punch, Queen & Co. pearl gems, Making Memories sanding block, Prima flowers, Maya Road trinket pins, Glue Arts layering tape and adhesives, Glue Dots (to adhere flowers to pins), other: sewing machine and thread.

Summer with a pool...

2010-08-20T09:42:00.005-04:00

...rocks!

This past summer has been hot as heck and it's the first summer of my life where I have had a pool. As a child my parents would always buy me one of those plastic ones that held about 8 inches of water.

Another advantage to having a pool is spending lots of time with friends. Here's a layout that I made of our friend, Matt, his kids and our kids in our pool. Matt has mad cannonball and kid-tossing skills!

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock, Jillibean Soup patterned paper, corrugated alphas, Cool Bean buttons, twine and journaling sprout, Making Memories letter stickers, Stampin' Up! stamps (fish), Tsukineko ink (VersaFine), Glue Dots, Helmar layering tape, Xyron Sticker Maker (to adhere "flying"), Cricut/Provo Craft Opposities Attract cartridge, other: sewing machine and thread.

A couple of friendship cards

2010-08-16T08:52:00.005-04:00

Jillibean Soup just came out with a new collection called Pasta Fagioli. It comes with the cutest journaling sprout collection as well. Slap them together and you've got some quick and easy cards.

Have a great week!

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Vintage Ruby), Jillibean Soup patterned paper, journaling sprout and kraft card bases, Stampin' Up heart punch, We R' Memory Keepers Crop-a-Dile (for small holes), Maya Road trinket pin, Glue Dots, Helmar layering tape, other: sewing machine and thread.

New Jillibean Soup goodness

2010-08-12T09:18:00.004-04:00

At summer CHA Jillibean Soup came out with a new line called Atomic Soup. It has a science based theme and offers up some awesome patterned papers, journaling sprouts, cardstock stickers, and coordinates with many of the previously released Jillibean Soup products. If you want to see all the new products that were released at CHA they are now all available for viewing on the Jillibean Soup website.

Here's a layout that I cooked up of Matthew's first day of grade three from last school year. My friend Amy Beattie took the photos of him that morning as I had to work.

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Core Impressions - Jillibean Soup Collection), Jillibean Soup kraft paper, printed paper, journaling sprouts, corrugated alphas, Making Memories sanding block, Stampin' Up binder punch, Helmar layering tape, Font: Mason. Photos taken by Amy Beattie.

Friggin' cutest puppy ever!

2010-08-11T20:53:00.005-04:00

I seriously can't take it.

She's gotta be one of the cutest puppies I have ever known.

Once she makes it through the night without waking us up I will think she is ever cuter.

She even makes the weeds growing in my garden look good. Dang. That's cute.

Do your kids need a "Get out of jail free" card?

2010-08-09T12:10:00.003-04:00

For many folks in the States, it's time for back to school. Here in Ontario we don't go back until September 7. My husband and I are both teachers so September 7 seems to be rapidly approaching.

Here's a great little "Get out of jail free" present for the beginning of the year...or when you deem appropriate...for your child's teacher. The apple is made from a template that I found at The Digichick.com. Here's the link to the template: Perfect Pumpkin Template

The card was made from part of a sheet of Core Impressions from the Cosmo Cricket Neutrals Collection.

This apple and card were featured in the Core'dinations' booth at summer CHA.

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Core Impressions and Vintage), Jillibean Soup Cool Bean button and twines, EK Success leaf punch, SRM sticker, Helmar layering tape, Glue Dots, 3M Quick Dry glue, Making Memories sanding block, "Perfect Pumpkin Template" by Kelleigh Ratzlaff Designs - available at www.thedigichick.com.

Need a make and take?

2010-08-08T13:35:00.006-04:00

Summer CHA provided us Core'dinations ColorCore Cardstock fans with a new collection of Core Impressions by Stacy Julian. The collection features a bulk pack (20 sheets) of Happy Colours. Six of the sheets from the collection have been made into single sheet packages for stores as well (20 sheets per package). The bookmark below features the yellow pre-embossed sheet. Each single sheet comes with text boxes which are identical so this make and take is very cost effective for store owners who want to promote Core'dinations in their stores or at an event. Feel free to use this bookmark as a template if you are a store owner looking for a technique-rich card.

Core'dinations Ingredients:
- Stacy Julian yellow embossed paper (9 bookmarks per sheet)
- 2 3/4" x 4 1/4" piece of Snowflake white cardstock
- 3" x 6" piece of Marine blue cardstock (8 per sheet)
- two half-punched flowers (two sizes) from Cottage Porch Whitewash cardstock (EK Success punches used)
- one scalloped circle from Danelion yellow cardstock (EK Success punch used)
- one circle from Autumn Vintage cardstock (EK Success punch used)
- one punched butterfly from Ruby Vintage cardstock (Marvy embossing punch used)
- one punched small heart from Ruby Vintage cardstock (EK Success punched used)

Also needed:
- sanding block or sand paper
- adhesives
- layering tape (for behind butterfly wings and small cloud)

Steps:

1. Trim pre-embossed text box to measure 2 1/2" x 4". Sand text to reveal coordinating coloured core.

2. Sand edge of clouds, butterfly, and edge of Danelion yellow circle.

3. Assemble as shown above, being sure to adhere layering tape behind small cloud and butterfly wings. Fold up wings gently to prevent bookmark from falling into the book.

Enjoy!

Ema's new room

2010-08-05T16:46:00.006-04:00

Today's posting features Ema's new room. She is turning six soon so we needed to think about adding a desk to her room and adding some more storage as well. Our friend Jason is an excellent carpenter and did all of the constructing. Here he is in the "before" room:

After Jason finished my mom and dad came over and helped us with the painting. The room still needs a few more touches (like a door knob for example) but you get the general idea. Ema loves how it all turned out!

Paint colours: Benjamin Moore - Chippendale Rosetone, Cloud White.

More CHA stuff

2010-08-04T21:59:00.008-04:00

Well, here's the rest of the CHA stuff that I can share at this point. Some of my other projects are not able to be posted at this time.

I ran out of time today to take a photo of my Stacy Julian Collection bookmark. We spent the day finishing Ema's room (painting mostly).

Check back tomorrow for the make and take bookmark.

The mini-album below features the new accordian 4" square kraft mini-album by Jillibean Soup. I adhered the mini-album inside two large kraft tags and bound it with some Cool Bean buttons. Fun...and very easy to make.

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Core Impressions - Jillibean Soup Collection and Essentials), Jillibean Soup *NEW* printed kraft, *NEW* kraft mini-album, *NEW* Journaling Sprouts, Cool Bean buttons, twine, cardstock stickers and *NEW* corrugated stars, EK Success journaling pen, Helmar layering tape, Glue Dots, other: sewing machine and thread.

Cards from CHA

2010-08-03T15:09:00.004-04:00

Here are some of the cards that I made for Jillibean Soup for CHA. They feature the new Christmas Chestnut Soup Journaling Sprouts...24 in a package...all awesome! Just the right touch for Christmas cards, I am thinking.

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Cherry Cordial Chocolate Box and Snowflake white), Jillibean Soup journaling sprouts, kraft paper, twine, and cardstock stickers, Cuttlebug embossing folder, Xyron Sticker Maker (to adhere diecut words), Helmar layering tape, Quickutz diecut ("merry" and "jolly"), other: sewing machine and thread.

Stacy Julian Core Impressions...did you see this???

2010-08-02T21:15:00.003-04:00

Happy Colours Collection.

Loving it!

Check back on Wednesday for a project that I designed using one of the papers from this collection. It's a rockin' Make and Take for stores as well...;0)

CHA projects...finally!

2010-08-02T14:48:00.009-04:00

Alrighty, now that CHA is over I can finally post some of the projects that I made for both the Jillibean Soup and Core'dinations' booths. Later this week I am going to try and get some scrapping done with the new Core'dinations Core Impressions cardstock that I got (Graphic 45 Collection and Stacy Julian Collection).
Today's post will be the layouts...tomorrow will be the cards and Wednesday will be all the "other" stuff I created. Enjoy!

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Core Impressions - Cosmo Cricket Collections and Essentials), Quickutz letter dies, Sizzix diecutting machine, Helmar layering tape, We R' Memory Keepers Crop-a-Dile hole punch, Making Memories sanding block, Font: Mason.

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Black Magic), Jillibean Soup patterned paper, cardstock sticker, Cool Bean buttons, twine, felts leaves, corrugated alphas, and journaling sprout, Helmar layering tape, Glue Dots, Making Memories sanding block, Stampin' Up binder punch, Font: Mason, other: googlie eyes.

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Core Amore and Essentials), Basic Grey chipboard letters, Quickutz die cut letters, Sizzix die cutting machine, Helmar layering tape, Creative Charms bling, Making Memories sanding block.

I thought I would end with a cutie pie photo of Sorella as well!!!

Friggin' cute puppy pics!

2010-08-01T19:25:00.007-04:00

The past few days have been just a tad busy.

I arrived home from Chicago (CHA) on Thursday night at about 11pm. CHA was a blast and I wish I had a bunch of photos but the Core'dinations' booth was so busy that I didn't have time to even get my camera out.

On Friday morning we drove four hours (there and back) to pick up our brand new puppy, Sorella. She is just about 7 weeks old and has already been keeping us up through the night like a brand new baby.

Here she is ready to head for home from the breeder's:

Here she is in the arms of her new daddy:

And here she is in our backyard...trying to hide in the grass that needs cutting:

And, finally, Sorella sleeping beside Ema's little house in the backyard:

Chicago or bust!

2010-07-23T22:39:00.005-04:00

Well, my bag is packed. My projects are done. I am hitting the hay and waking up at 4am in order to catch my 6:37am flight. Chicago is one of my favourite cities to visit and the fact that CHA is going on is just the cherry on top! In the words of Marci Lambert, "it's like going to the land of our people." Paper crafters. People that understand my love of beautiful papers and glues that really work.
When I get back I will load up some of the projects that I made for the show and try and take some photos while I am there as well.
By the way, the registration for the CreativFestival is starting soon. It's an awesome event that is taking place in Toronto, ON, from October 22-24, 2010. I am teaching a class for Scrapbook & Cards Today on Saturday, October 23, from 3:00pm to 5:00pm. For more information be sure to visit: http://www.csnf.com/ and follow the link for the Fall Show 2010.

Core'dinations Summer CHA Sneak Peek!!!!

2010-07-16T11:32:00.003-04:00

Check this baby out....Graphic 45 Core Impressions! 12 x 12 sheets of pre-embossed Core'dinations cardstock. Sandable, tearable....but not waterproof so don't drool on them. ;0)

A couple of new layouts

2010-07-15T12:59:00.006-04:00

Lately I have been knee deep in crazy craftin' in preparation for summer CHA. I will be heading to Chicago next weekend and there for most of the show. While I can't share what I have cooked up just yet I have a few layouts to hold you over until then.

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Abracadabra Black Magic and Snowflake white), Jillibean Soup patterned paper, cardstock stickers, Cool Bean button, stamp, corrugated alphas, felt leaf, twine and cardstock stickers, Riff Raff Designs chipboard (pencil), Quickutz embossing folder, Making Memories sanding block, We R' Memory Keepers Corner Chomper, Fiskars circle punch, EK Success marker, Tsukineko ink, Glue Dots, Helmar layering tape, other: date stamp.

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Core Impressions - Jillibean Soup Collection), Jillibean Soup patterned paper, corrugated alphas, cardstock stickers, cardstock letter stickers, Journaling Sprout, kraft paper and twine, EK Success scalloped circle punch, Making Memories sanding block and eyelet, Helmar layering tape, Font: Mason.

Merry Christmoose! Yet another Cool Bean Critter

2010-07-05T07:31:00.003-04:00

A moose.

Yep.

He's a cute little dude here to wish you an early "Merry Christmoose".

He's yet another Cool Bean Critter that I created using Jillibean Soup Cool Bean buttons.

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Snowflake white), Jillibean Soup patterned paper, cardstock stickers, corrugated alphas, kraft paper, Cool Bean button, felt flowers, and twine, Heidi Swapp edge distresser (for white cardstock edges), Helmar layering tape, Glue Dots, other: googlie eyes, sewing machine and thread.

Bee happy...it's summertime!

2010-07-02T17:54:00.005-04:00

There's a hot sun shining down.

The pool has hit a nice 85' F.

The forecast for the weekend looks awesome.

It just doesn't get better than this!

Supplies: Core'dinations cardstock (Vintage, Black Magic, Essentials), SRM sticker (bee happy!), Fiskars texture plate, Stampin' Up! heart punch, Creative Memories oval cutter, 3L layering tape, Glue Dots, Maya Road trinket pin, Making Memories sanding block, other: sewing machine and thread.