Camellia Cottage Designs

A Fun Day at Altered Angel

2012-01-30T19:12:00.000-05:00

This past Saturday I had a fun day with some of the 'Stickles Angels' at my favorite LSS, Altered Angel in Alpharetta, GA. There were only a few of us, but we really had a good time, and I got to make six new cards ... a set of 3 note cards and 3 other cards ... using some new images I bought on Etsy.

First up is a cute bunny card for Easter or spring! Patterned paper is Websters Pages, card stock is The Paper Studio, flowers are Prima, lace bought at Altered Angel, and sentiment is SRM Stickers.

Next up is this amazingly cute little baby chick! He's so fluffy and sweet you feel like you could reach out and feel his fluff! Card stock is The Paper Studio, patterned paper is October Afternoon Cherry Hill 'Egg Basket', Ribbon is from my stash, sentiment is from SRM Stickers, and flowers are Prima.

Here is my favorite of the single cards! It has the cutest image of a little girl in her Easter finery, leading a pair of geese ... who are wearing high heels! This is just too cute! The card stock is The Paper Studio, patterned paper is Authentique, Stickles 'platinum' and 'diamond', flower from Prima, vintage button from my stash, and the white seam binding is from my stash, and the rose seam binding is from my shop! Yes, I have a shop that is selling seam binding ... look for a link below!

Here is the set of 3 note cards. The card stock is The Paper Studio, the patterned paper is from Echo Park, Victoria Garden 6 x 6" paper pad, sentiments from SRM Stickers, Stickles 'diamond', and seam binding from my shop. The set of 3 ...

and each card individually ...

And here is a link to where I bought the collage sheets that I used for the images.

And a link to my new shop ... Miss Myrtle's Sundries.

Thanks for visiting today, and thanks for letting me share with you the cards I made on Saturday. I had a great time, both in the crafting and the chatting with ladies who enjoy doing similar things! Come back soon, Blessings! Becky

Wishing You Peace - My Second Assignment for The Hens' Den

2012-01-23T08:20:00.001-05:00

I've been having such fun as a part of the Design Team over at The Hens' Den! All the ladies on the team are so talented, and our leaders Charlie and Cheri are very encouraging and so funny! They have encouraged us to share our favorites from the sneak peeks of new products coming out this weekend at CHA-W, and we've had lots of discussions about what we like and don't like. It is wonderful to be a part of such a creative group of people!

Now I am here to share with you my second project as a member of the team. It is a card made from some lovely My Minds Eye papers and a couple of things from my stash. Check out my card ...

And here are all of the details ...

Supplies:

· Patterned papers – My Mind’s Eye –

InLinkz.com

Other supplies: Sentiment sticker, Covered Button, Brown ink

Tools:

· Cricut Expression and ‘Walk In My Garden’ cartridge, Martha Stewart/EK Success scoring board & paper trimmer, ‘Arch Scallop’ border punch, scissors, ruler, craft knife

Steps:

· Cut card base using Cricut Expression and Walk In My Garden cartridge, set at 5”. Score at center (using register marks) and fold in half. Press fold.

· Cut patterned paper base using Cricut Expression and Walk In My Garden cartridge, set at 5”. Adhere to card base.

· Ink edges with brown ink.

· Cut “Love Letters” paper to 5” X 3”. Apply decorative border using border punch on two long edges.

· Ink edges with brown ink. Adhere to front of card.

· Using scissors, trim (aka ‘fussy cut’) one lace design from the patterned paper.

· Ink edges with brown ink. Adhere to front of card.

· For the button, I used a 1 ½” coverable button, covered with ecru fabric and vintage ecru lace. These can be found in any fabric shop. Different brands work differently, so refer to the instructions that come with your buttons.

· Adhere button to center of lace ‘cut’.

· Adhere sticker sentiment to scrap of ivory card stock. Trim around sticker. Ink edges with brown ink. Adhere to card.

And that is all there is to it! Wouldn't you love to make a card just like this? Well, you can find the things you need (and more) at The Hens' Den online shop.

Thanks for visiting today!

A Card for Two Challenges ... Pink and Frou-Frou!!!

2012-01-19T13:50:00.001-05:00

Welcome back! Here I am, back again with a card for two challenges! I love when I can make a project that has two totally different challenges, and yet make it work into a beautiful finished product! Here are the challenges ...

Papercraft Star - Use a frame
Sugar Creek Hollow - Embossing (either dry or heat embossing)

And here is my card for both challenges ...

And here are the details ...

Supplies:

Base card stock - The Paper Studio (Hobby Lobby)
White card stock - Georgia Pacific (Walmart)
Patterned paper - Echo Park 'Victoria Garden'
Image - Little Birdie Blessings
Frame - Tattered Angels
Pearls - Prima
Glitter - a mixture from my stash
Pink ribbon - yard sale find
Tulle and tiny flowers - Hobby Lobby
Vintage brooch - yard sale find

Tools:

Martha Stewart / EK Success Paper Trimmer
Martha Stewart / EK Success Scoring Board
Cuttlebug and Textile embossing folder
Scissors, craft knife, ruler

I love that image, and had wanted to use it for a while, but never found anything that went well with it, but then when I got the Echo Park Victoria Garden 6 x 6" pad, I knew this paper would go great with the image! Thanks so much for visiting today, and I hope to see you back again very soon! Blessings, Becky

Little Red Wagon ... Two Different Ribbons

2012-01-18T16:42:00.003-05:00

Me again! Here to share a card I made for the Little Red Wagon challenge '2 Different Ribbons'. You must have at least 2 (or more) different ribbons on your project. Here is my project for this challenge ...

I can't tell you how happy I am about this card!!! I have been working and working on layering, and stalking some of my card making heroes like Cherry Nelson and Beatriz Jennings and more. I think this one came close to what I have been wanting, so I am very pleased with it! Here are the details ...

Supplies:

Card base - Michaels 'Recollections' Value Pack with Envelopes
Base patterned paper, K&Company 'Cut 'n' Paste' Stack (two floral images also came from this same sheet!)
Bird image - Bumble Button
Sentiment - SRM Stickers
Sparkly ribbon and laces, button - my stash
Orange ribbon - 7 Gypsies
Green ribbon - Anna Griffin
Brown ink - Stampabilities
Stickles - Platinum - Ranger Inks
Chipboard oval - Crafty Secrets
Chipboard frame - Tattered Angels

Tools:

Martha Stewart / EK Success Paper Trimmer
Scissors, craft knife, ruler
EK Success border punch 'Arch Scallop'

Tips:

Image - I printed 2 copies, trimmed one in it's entirety, and then fussy cut the second leaving only the bird and limb it is sitting on. Then I bumped the fussy cut image up on foam dots and placed it over the original in the image.
Rose bouquet on left side is fussy cut from the K&Company paper sheet from 'Cut 'n' Paste' stack. After trimming it, I inked the edges then touched them with platinum Stickles.
Rose Medallion in lower right corner - I cut the rose from the same K&Co. paper, then placed the chipboard oval where I wanted it and scored around it so the paper would fold easily. Then I clipped around the edges of the paper and folded it under the chipboard gluing as I went along. Then I cut a length of lace and glued it underneath the medallion.

And that is it! I really, truly LOVE this card, and I hope you have enjoyed it, too! Thanks for visiting! Blessings, Becky

Card Patterns - Sketch #148 ... With Love

2012-01-18T16:05:00.001-05:00

Hi there! I'm back with a sweet card I made for Card Patterns' sketch 148. This was a fun sketch, and just screamed out for some stitching! Here is this week's sketch ...

And here is my card based on the sketch ...

And here is all the info ...

Supplies:

Base card stock (kraft) - The Paper Studio (Hobby Lobby)
Patterned papers, chipboard and twine, Crate Paper 'Farmhouse Collection'
Scalloped card stock - Bazzill
Flowers - Prima
Sentiment - SRM Stickers
Stickles - Platinum - Ranter Inks
Brown Ink - Stampabilities (Hobby Lobby)
Doily - Wilton (Hobby Lobby)

Tools:

Martha Stewart / EK Success paper trimmer
Marth Stewart / EK Success scoring board
Kenmore sewing machine
Scissors, craft knife, ruler
Fiskars 'Apron Lace' Border Punch

And that's all there is to it! Thanks so much for visiting today, and be sure to come right back because I've got 2 more cards to share when I finish with this one! Blessings, Becky

Just My Style!

2012-01-17T13:44:00.000-05:00

Hi there! Just a quickie post to share a card I made last week. It's just my style, with a vintage Mabel Lucie Atwell image and lots of color and, of course, seam binding! Here's my card ...

Isn't that cute! Here are the details:

Card base - Michaels Recollections Value Pack
Patterned papers - Cosmo Cricket
Sentiment - SRM Stickers
Seam Binding - Bluebird Lane Etsy Shop
Vintage ric-rack and button - my stash

And that is that! Hope you've enjoyed this card ... will be back soon with something new! Blessings, Becky

Friendship's Garden Challenge 7 - Clean and Simple

2012-01-11T04:01:00.000-05:00

Hi Folks! Welcome back! I'm here to share my project with you for this week's challenge at Friendship's Garden! Our challenge this week is to make a 'clean and simple' card that showcases a sentiment, and as always, without using any stamped images! Here is my card ...

And here are the details . . .

Supplies:

InLinkz.com

Other Supplies:

Card base - Michaels
Vintage ribbon - my stash

Tools Used:

InLinkz.com

Other Tools Used:

Scissors, craft knife, ruler

And that is all there is to it! Please go visit our challenge at Friendship's Garden this week and make a clean and simple card to participate! Blessings, Becky

You're So Sweet - CPS # 250 - Crate Paper

2012-01-08T12:10:00.001-05:00

Hello! I hope you are having a great weekend. Here in northern Georgia it's rainy and wet and foggy ... perfect weather for crafting! Today I wanted to share a card with you that I made for Card Positioning Systems (CPS) sketch # 250! I used some of the 'Farmhouse Collection' from Crate Paper, and right now I think that's my favorite line ... but then I say that about all of them! :O) Here's a picture of the sketch for this week ...

And here is a picture of my card based on the sketch ...

And I'm trying to do a better job of decorating the insides of my cards, so her is how I did the inside of this card ...

And here is all the info ...

Crate Paper Supplies - all from Farmhouse Collection:

Base paper - 'Cross Stitch'
Green leaves paper - 'Cupboard'
Orange floral paper - 'Countryside'
Patterned paper inside - 'Homemade'
Honey Sentiment - Sticker sheet
Die cuts inside - Diecut Sheet

Other Supplies:

Base card stock - The Paper Studio (Hobby Lobby)
Brown ink - Stampabilities (Hobby Lobby)
Thread - Coats
Sentiments - SRM Stickers

Tools:

Martha Stewart/EK Success Paper Trimmer
Martha Stewart/EK Success Scoring Board
EK Success Corner Rounding Punch - small and medium
Craft knife, scissors, ruler, sewing machine

I really enjoyed making the card from this week's sketch, and of course my hubby LOVED the card, but I know him ... orange and green are his favorite colors! Thanks for visiting today, and come back soon to see what's going on at Camellia Cottage! Blessings, Becky

Winter Kisses - Papercraft Star

2012-01-07T12:04:00.000-05:00

These last few weeks, with the holidays, new design team assignments, etc. I haven't been able to take part in many challenges, but when I saw the latest challenge at Papercraft Star I knew I wanted to put some of my new goodies to use and make a card! The theme is 'Winter' and I have some of the new 'Snow Day' goodies from Pink Paislee, and they worked just perfectly with that theme! Here is what I came up with ...

Here is all the info ...

Supplies:

Base card stock - The Paper Studio
Patterned papers - Pink Paislee 'Snow Day' ... Warm Mittens, Fireside, and Snowball Fight
Snow couple - Pink Paislee 'Snow Day Dimensional Stickers
Die cuts - Pink Paislee 'Snow Day' Ephemera
Letter stickers - Pink Paislee 'Snow Day' Bitty Blocks
Stickles - 'Diamond' and 'Silver'
Red seam binding - Bluebird Lane (Etsy)
White lace - Olive Grace (booth at show)
Brown ink - Stampabilities

Tools:

Martha Stewart/EKSuccess paper trimmer
Martha Stewart/EKSuccess scoring board
Scissors, ruler, craft knife
EKSuccess 'Arch Scallop' border punch
Fiskars 'Apron Lace' border punch

And that's all there is to it! I love this card, and think it would even work for Valentines! I mean, here in Georgia Valentines Day does fall in winter! Thanks so much for visiting, and I hope to see you back again soon! Blessings, Becky

My First Blog Post at The Hen's Den!

2012-01-06T16:56:00.000-05:00

Hi there! I have been so excited the past few weeks, since finding out I was chosen to be on the Design Team over at The Hens' Den! My first project was published on their blog, and now I can share it with you here on my own blog. Here is my first project for The Hens' Den ...

Here is all the info ...

“Pretty as a PrincessCard”

Designed by: Becky Garrison

Featuring: Crate Paper ‘Emma’s Shoppe’ Collection

Supplies:

· Base card stock –Bazzill Basics

· Patterned paper –Crate Paper Emma’s Shoppe collection ‘Quilts’, and ‘Sweets’

· Journaling cards - CratePaper Emma’s Shoppe collection ‘Accent Cuts’

· Stickers – Crate PaperEmma’s Shoppe collection ‘Phrases’

· Flowers – Prima ‘Innoscence2’

· Pearl Gems – Prima

· Sentiment – ‘Pretty’ from Crate Paper Emma’s Shoppecollection ‘Accent Cuts’; ‘as a Princess’ from SRM Stickers

· Lace – The Hens’ Den

· Vintage Button andtwine – my stash

· Brown Ink –Stampabilities (Hobby Lobby)

Tools:

· Martha Stewart/EKSuccess Paper Trimmer

· Martha Stewart/EKSuccess Scoring Board

· Fiskars ‘Apron Lace’Border Punch

· Scissors, ruler,craft knife

You can find full instructions on The Hens' Den blog. Thanks so much for visiting to day, and be sure to visit The Hens' Den's blog to see what my fellow designers are sharing, too! Blessings! Becky

Friendship's Garden Bonus Week Challenge

2012-01-04T04:01:00.000-05:00

Hi there! I know I've been missing in action the last couple of weeks, but I just kind of took a break from blogging during the Christmas and New Years holidays. And it was a much needed and enjoyed break, too! But now I'm back and ready to go, starting this new year with a new bonus challenge at Frienship's Garden!

This week's challenge is to make an ATC (artist trading card) with a vintage children's theme. If you aren't familiar with ATC's, you can find links to lots of information about them on the Friendship's Garden blog.

Making ATC's is kind of addictive, so I made four very different examples ...

{my favorite!}

Thanks so much for visiting today, and please go visit the Friendship's Garden blog and make an ATC or two to enter! Blessings, Becky

One Amazing Week!

2011-12-16T12:43:00.000-05:00

No matter what you do, whether it's working as a garbage collector, an office clerk, a medical professional, or a top level executive, being recognized by your peers is very important. But to be recognized by the experts in your field, the people who really know about what it is you do ... well, that is just an incredible thing, and makes you want to keep on doing what you do, and do it to the best of your ability. When what you do is a hobby or art or whatever your passion may be, to be recognized by those experts is equally amazing and special.

And yes, it has been one amazing week for me!

First up, I had one of my cards published! Paper Crafts Magazine, January/February, 2012 issue, page 77 - what an honor! The magazine hit the streets on 12/13 - Tuesday of this week, and yes, I bought two copies! This was my first card to be published, but I hope there will be many more.

Second, I made the Design Team at online paper crafting retailer The Hens' Den for 2012. And the owner of the company and the Design Team leader have both been so complimentary of my talents, and made me feel so welcome - I am really looking forward to the next year of working with them.

And then, today, possibly the biggest of all, my card was featured by Cath Edvalson (Paper Crafts Magazine's Trends Editor) on her 'Five for Friday' post on her blog 'Moxie Fab World'. Now, to me this is huge! There were probably close to 200 cards published in that magazine, many by some of the most talented paper crafters EVER! And out of all of those cards, my card was chosen as one of her five favorite cards in the magazine. AND ... to top it off, one of the cards out of the five was by one of my card making heroes ... Betsy Veldman, I love your special talent!!! You are one amazing card maker!

So, it has indeed been an amazing week. I feel so honored, blessed and grateful, and to God goes all the glory! You see, I believe that I am a child of a loving God, and that He made me, and He gave me any gifts or talents that I may have - they are not from me, but from Him. I just work hard to put them to good use.

Blessings everyone, Becky

The Big Announcement ...

2011-12-15T03:00:00.000-05:00

You can have no idea how excited and happy I am to be able to share my big news with you! Instead of just telling you myself, I am going to share with you the public announcement ....

From The Hens Den ...

~~~ We are so excited and thrilled with the responses we had for design team submissions. We wish we could have chosen everyone who had submitted, there is so much wonderful talent out there!! Because there were so many submissions we could not narrow it down to just FOUR, do we draw straws? Flip a coin? No, no, we break the rules and add SIX!!

Please welcome the following new designers to the team!

Becky Garrison, GA

http://camelliacottagedesigns.blogspot.com

Theresa Harris {aka The Scrapbooking Queen}, CA

http://www.thescrapbookingqueen.com

Nicolle Kramer, NY

http://nicollelovesscrapbooking.com

Carolyn Lontin, CO

http://carolynlontin.blogspot.com

Lori McClellan, UT

http://sentimentalxpressions.blogspot.com

Krystle Thomas, NM

http://hightimesinthehighdesert.blogspot.com

Returning DT members for 2012:

Charlie LaBonte, WA - Owner/Operator

http://charlielabonte.blogspot.com

Cheri Piles, WA - Design Team Lead

http://cherinspirations.blogspot.com

Carla Oliveira, WI - Asst. Design Team Lead

http://carlascuriouslycraftychaos.blogspot.com

Over the next six days we will be introducing our newest designers individually, please stop back by to get to know them. ~~~

Did you see that? That's right, I am so honored to have been chosen as a member of the 2012 Design Team at The Hens Den, an online scrapbooking store out of Washington state. Since applying for the team, I have gotten acquainted with the store's owner on Facebook, and knew very soon that I would really like this sweet lady. I look forward to working with Charlie, Cheri and all the other DT members for the next year. I have a lot to learn, and can't wait to get started!

Please follow the link above and go visit the store, and this link to visit their blog.

Friendship's Garden - Challenge Six!

2011-12-14T04:00:00.000-05:00

It's time for another challenge at Friendship's Garden! And this week's challenge is simple ... make a card of any style, any colors, really anything goes ... except ... they must have a Christmas, New Year's or winter theme.

Here is my card based on this week's challenge ...

My inspiration for this card was a tag that I found when surfing around on Pinterest. As soon as I saw it, I knew I had to make a card with that cute snowman!

Supplies:

Card base - Michael's Value Cards
Patterned papers - DCWV
White cardstock (snowman) - Walmart
Blue snowflakes - Dollar Tree
Red felt for heart - Hobby Lobby
Googly Eyes - Hobby Lobby
Sentiment - SRM Stickers

Tools:

Cricut Expression and Plantin Schoolbook cartridge (circles)
Scissors, ruler, craft knife, paper trimmer

I think that snowman is so cute, and very easy to make - simply cut 2 different sized circles, ink the edges, add a few punched holes (I used 1/8 inch) of black card stock, some googly eyes, and a long triangle of orange card stock.

I hope you've enjoyed this week's project! I will be back in the next couple of days with a big announcement - one of which I am very proud and excited! Blessings, Becky

All About the Holly!

2011-12-08T16:56:00.001-05:00

Last Friday was the first Friday of December, so when Daring Cardmakers published their challenge, of course it was time for the flower of the month challenge. This month's flower is either the Narcissus or the holly. I went with the holly. It's all about the holly this time of year! I am also submitting this for the 'vintage Christmas challenge over at Little Red Wagon. Here is my card based on the challenge ...

Supplies:

Card stock - The Paper Studio
Patterned paper - Melissa Frances
Sentiment - SRM Stickers
Stickles - Ranger Industries
Vintage buttons and twine - my stash
Brown Ink - Stampabilities

Tools:

Computer and ink jet printer
Cricut Expression and Walk In My Garden Cartridge
Michaels scalloped circle punch
Craft knife, ruler, paper trimmer, scoring tool

I used another vintage Christmas card image, fussy cut around her and added brown ink for more age. I think this is my 2nd favorite card I've made this season!

Thanks for visiting! Becky

Sweet Gift Card Holder

2011-12-08T16:34:00.001-05:00

Okay, can I just say that I don't like the idea of just putting a gift card into an envelope and handing it to the giftee? Somehow, it only seems right that if you are giving someone a gift card, it should at least be packaged nicely! So, when I saw The Kraft Journal's challenge this week - to make a tag or a gift card holder - I saw an opportunity to make a really cute package for a gift card! And here it is ...

I wanted to put some kraft tissue paper inside, but I'm all out - it's Christmas, you know! But isn't this a cute way to give a gift card!

Supplies:

Kraft card stock - The Paper Studio
Patterned paper - Graphic 45
Image - CD
Burlap-ish ribbon - May Arts
Fluffy trim and green velvet ribbon - my stash
Stickles - Ranger Industries
Felt (on bottom) - Hobby Lobby

Tools:

Computer and Ink Jet Printer
Cricut Expression and Bags, Tags, Boxes and More cartridge
Craft knie, ruler, scoring tool

Note: The 'bag' is made using the Bags, Tags, Boxes and More Cricut cartridge and the 'inch bag' setting, cut at 6" - this perfectly fits an 8 1/2 x 11" sheet of card stock.

Isn't it sweet! You could hang it on a tree, or just put it under the tree with all the other goodies! Thanks for visiting, Becky

Friendship's Garden - Bonus Week Tutorial

2011-12-07T09:11:00.001-05:00

Just a quick note to share with you about this week's 'Bonus Week' post over at Friendship's Garden challenge! Garden Girl CherylAnn Robinson has created an amazing tutorial showing how to make a tag using self adhesive metal sheets and alcohol inks! Please click on the ink above and visit watch the video, then please go to CherylAnn's blog and leave her a sweet comment and tell her how much you enjoyed the tutorial! Thanks, Becky

Two Challenges, and a special tree!

2011-11-30T15:47:00.001-05:00

Hello! I've gotten one card made today amidst the unpacking and tons and tons of laundry from our trip last week. We spent 9 wonderful days at the gorgeous St. Joseph's Peninsula State Park near Port St. Joe, Florida. Trust me, if you love the beach, nature, wildlife, and especially kayaking or canoeing, this is the place!

But now, I have a card that I made for two challenges, and here are the challenges ...

Little Red Wagon - eyelets - use an eyelet or eyelets on your project
Our Creative Corner Challenge - your project must have a Christmas tree or pine tree

And here is my project based on these challenges ...

I found out about this easy and cute Christmas tree fold from my new friend, Jamie, and you can find the tutorial HERE. And trust me, it's really easy ... by the time you've finished two of the sections, you will have it down pat!

Supplies:

Card base - Michaels
Red (background) patterned paper - Die Cuts With a View
Green patterned paper - Michaels 'Recollections'
Seam binding - Bluebird Lane Etsy shop
Eyelets - mostly from Buttons Galore and More
Sentiment - SRM Stickers

Tools:

Martha Stewart/EK Success paper trimmer
Scissors, craft knife, ruler
Eyelet setting tool

And that's all there is to it! I hope you've enjoyed the card, and please check out Jamie's tutorial! See you again soon, Becky

Friendship's Garden Challenge Five!!!

2011-11-30T04:00:00.000-05:00

I can't believe that we are now on our fifth challenge at Friendship's Garden! And when I started preparing for this challenge, I wanted it to be different, with sketches some times, themes or recipes some times, and other types of challenges to keep things interesting. One thing I came up with was the Pinterest Photo Inspiration challenge. I scoured and searched Pinterest for some great inspiration, and came up with some great photos. The idea behind this is that you must make a project using this photo as your inspiration, and it must include the colors I've picked from the photo. Here is the Pinterest Inspiration Photo for challenge number five ...

And here is my project base on the photo ...

Supplies:

Base card stock - The Paper Studio
Patterned papers (including vintage post card image) - Melissa Frances
Ribbon - My stash - a great estate sale find
Button - Buttons Galore and More
Brown ink - Stampabilities

Tools:

Cricut Expression with Walk In My Garden and Elegant Edges cartridges
Scissors, rotary cutter, craft knife and ruler
Needle and Craft and Button thread

Tips:

To make the ribbon flower, using a needle and button or craft thread (heavier weight), baste along one edge of the ribbon. Pull one thread to gather it together to form a circle. Tie a knot in the ends, glue the ends together.

That's my project for this week! Thanks for visiting, and be sure to follow the link above and participate in our challenge for this week. Blessings, Becky!

Alphabet Challeng Blog - V is for Very Vibrant

2011-11-26T05:00:00.000-05:00

The challenge this week over at Alphabet Challenge Blog kind of threw me for a loop, and I'm not sure why! But I started looking for a 'vibrant' image in my clipart library, and when I found this one, I knew it was right! Here is my card based on the challenge ...

Supplies:

Base card stock - The Paper Studio
Pattrned papers - Echo Park 'Happy Days'
Image - Clipart software
Sentiment - SRM Stickers
Ribbon and dove - My Stash
Stickles 'Diamond'

Tools:

Computer and Ink Jet Printer
Cricut Expression and Walk In My Garden cartridge
EK Success Arch Scallop Border Punch
Scissors, ruler, paper trimmer and craft knife

I remember learning the story of Noah's Ark as a child, and I was amazed that the dove flew out, found the olive branch, and carried it back to the Ark, so I wanted the dove to look as if it was flying out in search of dry land.

Thanks so much for coming by to visit today! We'll be back in 2 weeks for another challenge just for you! Blessings, Becky

Friendship's Garden Challenge Four

2011-11-16T04:00:00.000-05:00

Welcome! Today is Challenge 4 over at Friendship's Garden, and it's all about Thanksgiving! And since it's Thanksgiving, and we will all be cooking a lot of special recipes, I decided we needed to have a recipe for this challenge, too. Here is the challenge ...

Thanksgiving (or gratitude) Theme using this recipe: 1 Die Cut, 2 Patterned Papers, and 3 Trims (ribbon, lace, etc.)

And here is my card based on the challenge ...

Supplies:

Base (kraft) cardstock - The Paper Studio
Patterned papers - We R Memory Keepers 'Autumn Splendor'
Image - Little Birdie Blessings
Lace, button, ribbon and twine - my stash
Orange cardstock - The Paper Studio
Ink - Stampabilities
Stickles 'Platinum' - Ranger Industries

Tools:

Computer and ink jet printer
Cricut Expression with Walk In My Garden and Create A Critter cartridges
Scissors, ruler, craft knife, paper trimmer

To make the pumpkin, I cut out two of the same sized pumpkings from the Create A Critter cartridge. Cut the stem off of one, then cut it in half and glued each half behind the whole pumpkin. I saw this on someone's blog, but can't remember who ... so sorry!

So, now it's time for you get busy and make a project for this week's challenge! You know you want to, right! Oh, and I have announced a mid-term DT call, so you might want to check that out while you are there! Blessings, Becky

Unscripted Sketches #132

2011-11-14T16:18:00.001-05:00

Since I left the Design Team at Unscripted Sketches I sure have missed all the other girls on the team. But when I stepped down, I pretty much knew I was going to start Friendship's Garden, and I'm so glad I started THAT new adventure! But I still miss doing Sarah's challenges, and whenever I can I like to make a project based on her sketch. Here is the sketch for this week ...

At first I was like ... 'what was she thinking?', but then it hit me - this was perfect for a tag! and here is my tag based on the sketch ...

Supplies:

Manila tag - stash
Patterned papers and chipboard sentiment - My Minds Eye
Ribbon and star pin - stash
Brown ink - Stampabilities

Tools:

Scissors, paper trimmer, craft knife, ruler

As you can see by the list of tools, this was one easy tag to make! Why don't you run over to Unscripted Sketches and make something from their sketch this week! Blessings, Becky

Art Journaling . . . a beginning!

2011-11-13T20:58:00.001-05:00

This past Friday night and Saturday, my favorite LSS - Altered Angel in Alpharetta, GA - hosted a huge event sponsored by Fiskars and their rep - Angela Daniels. I went Friday night and had a great time! They also had the Glue Girls from Glue Arts there, artist and color expert Brenda Pinnick, Ken Oliver from Unibind Photobook Creator, and more!

I did a cute make and take Christmas tag with The Glue Girls, a fun little class on making a ring from punched out paper butterflies with Angela Daniels, and then did a Unibind book filled with blank pages with Ken. The purpose of making a blank book was to take the class with Brenda Pinnick on art journaling. Her class was running long ... the second class hadn't finished and the third still had to go before my class started, so I decided to go home and return on Saturday morning so I could get into the first class of the day.

I got there early and took the class with Brenda. We were doing 12 x 12 pages, and I just had a hard time filling that page! I am determined to start art journaling, though, because I love the idea of mixing art and words and recording memories and occasions that way! Since I didn't do well with the larger pages, I decided to try with one of my favorite things ... a #5 manila tag! Here is my first attempt ...

And here is what it says ... "bloom. be who you are. no one knows you better than you, and no one knows your inner truth ... it is yours alone. live it, be it, don't let anyone try to change who you are. do not let anyone else make youfeel inferior, for you are more, you are you, and there is not another you. bloom. be. live. fly. soar. now is your time. bloom."

I had painted a pretty flower, but I didn't like it, so I took red and white paint and played in it with just my forefinger ... I wanted my fingerprint in the mix. Proof there is only one me, right? So that is the texture you see in the flower.

I am terrible at printing, but it's only for me anyway, so I think it is fine for a first page! Actually I am quite proud of this first tag in my art journal!

So tell me, have you ever done an art journal? I think I'm going to enjoy it now that I'm trying it in a smaller size. And of course I love manilla tags! Blessings, Becky!

My Latest Crafting Obsession!

2011-11-11T11:51:00.001-05:00

Hi There! I just wanted to share with you my latest crafting obsession ......

Aren't they just the cutest things??? They are Christmas brooches made from felt, ribbon, floral elements and mini Christmas ornaments! And then of course there are these, made with hand made felt roses ......

I love them all, but this is my personal favorite!


Sugar Plum Fairies Delight!!!

They are very easy, and LOTS of fun to make! You can find them all in my Etsy shop, too!

Thanks for visiting, but I've got to run! I'm going to my favorite LSS for a huge Fiskateers event tonight! Have a great weekend! Blessings, Becky

Alphabet Challenge Blog ... U is for Under The Sea!

2011-11-11T09:33:00.001-05:00

Hi Folks! Welcome back for another great challenge at Alphabet Challenge Blog! This week's challenge was fun, and challenging for me! The theme is U for under the sea, and I had a hard time finding an image I liked that fit my usual shabby vintage (might I say girly) style! But when I found this image I knew I needed to step away from the ribbons and gems and frilly stuff and make a guy's card for a change! Here is my project based on the challenge ...

Supplies:

Kraft card stock - The Paper Studio
Patterned paper - Basic Grey
Image - clipart software
Sentiment - SRM Stickers
Button and jute twine - stash
Brown ink - Stampabilities

Tools:

Cricut Expression and Walk In My Garden cartridge
Computer, clipart software and printer
Scissors, ruler, rotary cutter, craft knife

Thanks so much for joining me today! Now follow the link up above and go pay a visit to the other DT members of Alphabet Challenge Blog! Blessings, Becky

Friendship's Garden Challenge - Bonus Challenge Two

2011-11-09T09:31:00.002-05:00

Hi Folks! Just wanted to share a quick post with my project for this week's Bonus Challenge over at Friendship's Garden! Here is the challenge ...

Make a card - any theme, any occasion - whatever you choose ... but you have to make it in less than 15 minutes!!!

And here is my card based on the challenge ...

The timer shows I made my card in just 13 min. 10 seconds!

Supplies:

Base (kraft) card stock - The Paper Studio
Patterned Paper, die cut elements, gems, bird stamp - My Minds Eye 'Lost and Found Christmas' Collection
Brown Ink - Stampabilities

Tools:

Cricut Expression and Walk In My Garden cartridge
Scissors, rotary cutter, ruler, craft knife

One 'quick' tip for making 'quick' cards: Use a kit or collection of products all made to work together! I recently won a whole bunch of My Mind's Eye goodies from one line. You already know that everything matches, so all you have to do is arrange them on the card the way you want!

Okay, I've got to get busy, but please run by Friendship's Garden and show us what you can do in less than 15 minutes!!! Blessings, Becky

Our Creative Corner Challenge - Fancy Folds

2011-11-03T16:11:00.000-04:00

I didn't know if I would have a chance to get a project made for the challenge over at Our Creative Corner this week, so I went with a very simple card that would still fit their challenge of 'Fancy Folds', or a card made using a special folding technique. I used the joy fold card, and you can find a tutorial for making it HERE. And I promise you it's really easy, and the instructions are simple to follow.

Here is my card based on the challenge ...

Supplies:

Base card stock - The Paper Studio
Patterned paper, Brad, Masking Tape Strips, Twine and Clear Stamps - Pebbles, Inc.
Red button - Buttons Galore and More
Ink - Anna Griffin
Adhesive - Glue Glider Pro and Perma Tac Adhesive

Tools:

Martha Stewart paper trimmer
Martha Stewart scoring board
Ruler, scissors, craft knife
Acrylic block for stamps
1/4" hole punch

Before I go I want to share one of my favorite new product lines with you! A few weeks ago I won some goodies from Moxie Fab World, a blog that's part of Paper Crafts Magazine. One of the things I won was all kinds of goodies from Pebbles, Inc. - a division of American Crafts. I wasn't sure what to expect, so when I got this big box of patterned paper, clear stamps, fibers, covered button brads, masking tape strips, buttons, and more, I was kind of blown away.

But what really touched me was the sweet letter from Elizabeth Gosney, a Marketing Specialist with American Crafts. It was such a sweet letter, and she asked me to share about their new product line with my friends.

Let me tell you - I'm loving these products! The line is 'Fresh Goods', and right up my alley! The bright colors and country fresh patterns were so 'me' that they just made me smile! The papers are great quailty, as are all the other goodies. I love the cute clear stamps and the masking tape stickers are very unique and fun! If you haven't heard of them, please go check out their BLOG HERE, or go like them on FACEBOOK HERE. Oops, guess I got off track a bit, but I really wanted to tell you about Pebbles!

Thanks so much for visiting! Blessings, Becky

Really Reasonable Ribbon and Papercrafts Star Challenges

2011-11-03T14:13:00.000-04:00

Hi Folks! I'm back with one project for two challenges - again! Here are the challenges:

Really Reasonable Ribbon - Challenge 35 - Make a Christmas project using ribbon or trim somewhere on the project, and
Papercraft Star - Challenge 69 - Make a project with a flourish on it! The optional inspiration picture is ...

I really didn't realize, until after I'd taken the pictures of my project, just how much the feel of the papers I used matched the picture above. What do you think ...

Maybe you can see it better by looking at the back side of the gift bag ...

I love those papers - they look so rich and elegant, and turn that plain little paper bag into some thing beautiful and special! Here are the details ...

Supplies:

Base gift bag - Hobby Lobby
Patterned papers - My Mind's Eye 'Lost and Found Christmas'
Elements - Gems, Noel tag, brad, green ribbon, die cut 'Be Merry' - all part of the My Mind's Eye 'Lost and Found Christmas' line
Kraft cardstock for mini tag - The Paper Studio
Brown ink - Stampabilities
Felt on bottom of bag - Hobby Lobby
Red ribbon - my stash

This is the front and back of the original box - very plain kraft gift bag - 3 for $1.00 at Hobby Lobby

Adding felt to the bottom of the bag makes it a bit heavier on bottom as well as adding a finished, more expensive look.

Adding a matching gift tag always makes a lovely embellishment!

Tools:

Cricut Expression and Tags, Bags, Boxes and More cartridge
Martha Stewart paper trimmer
Scissors, craft knife, ruler

Tips:

Cut the paper 1/8 inch smaller on all sides and ink the edges with brown ink to add an aged feel
Wrap the twisted paper handles with a coordinating ribbon to add a special touch
Cut your paper to use it to it's best advantage. See how I cut this paper to show the big red glittery flourish.

Wouldn't this be the perfect gift wrapping for a special gift such as a piece of jewelry? I sure think so! And I took a 34 cent bag and turned it into something very pretty and very elegant, using all things from my stash.

Thanks so much for visiting today! Come back soon! Blessings, Becky

Friendship's Garden Challenge Three

2011-11-02T03:05:00.000-04:00

It's hard for me to believe that we are already on our third challenge at Friendship's Garden! I have been so pleased with how things are going thus far! So thank you so much for participating!

This week's challenge is simple ... Autum Colors! You must have a leaf or leaves on your card, and use traditional fall colors. Here is my card for this challenge ...

Supplies:

Base (kraft) card stock - The Paper Studio
Patterned papers - We R Memory Keepers
Felt leaves - Purchased at an LSS in Alabama - not sure of manufacturer
Vintage button and twine - my stash
Purple metal filigree - Michael's jewelry dept.
brown ink - Stampabilities
Sentiment - SRM Stickers

Tools:

Cricut Expression using Walk In My Garden and Elegant Edges cartridges
Scissors, rotary cutter, craft knife and ruler

I didn't even notice it until after I'd finished the card, but the way I turned that border and set the label on top of it, kind of looks like a Faberge' egg on a stand - isn't that cool!

I also wanted to remind you that your embellishments don't have to come from the scrapbooking store or department at your 'mega' craft store! That filigree flower is from Michael's jewelry department and is a great focal point for a card!

Okay, so that's my card! Please go visit Friendship's Garden and see the rest of the Garden Girls, and our guest designer's inspiration projects! Blessings, Becky

The Ribbon Reel and Daring Cardmakers ...

2011-11-01T16:24:00.002-04:00

I recently found a new challenge, and I love it! It's The Ribbon Reel's challenge blog, and this is my first time to participate and it's been such fun! The inspiration photo for this challenge is below, and the color challenge is hot pink, turquoise and cream. And you know I've been a fan of Daring Cardmakers for a long time, and I loved their challenge this week called 'Fantastic Felties'. Here goes ...

The Ribbon Reel's Inspiration Photo - Colors hot pink, turquoise and cream

And here is my project based on both challenges ...

Supplies:

Base card stock - The Paper Studio
Patterned papers - My Mind's Eye
Bling: Rhinestone swirls - Recollections (Michaels); Turquoise pearl - Prima
Felt for flowers - Hobby Lobby
Ribbon - Blue Bird Lane
Sentiment - SRM Stickers

Tools:

Cricut Expression using Walk In My Garden and Elegant Edges cartridges
Scissors, rotary cutter, craft knife, ruler

Tips for making felt flowers - Cut out a circle about 2 1/2 to 3 times the size of the finished flower you want. Cut the circle into a long spiral (see pic below) ending close to the center. Curl the end of the felt and glue as you go along. (And yes, it really is THAT easy!)

I love this card, and it's amazing how much fun it is to make those felt flowers! You could cut out your circles and make the flowers while watching TV at night or waiting on the kids at practice!

Thanks so much for visiting today, and I hope to see you back tomorrow for the Frienship's Garden challenge! Blessings, Becky

Alphabet Challenge Blog ... T is for Tea Time

2011-10-28T05:28:00.000-04:00

It's time once again for a new challenge over at Alphabet Challenge Blog. The challenge this week is 'T is for Tea Time', and here is my card based on the challenge ...

Supplies:

Base card stock - The Paper Studio
Patterned paper - The Paper Studio
Image - The Graphics Fairy*
Vintage hem lace and vintage button - my stash
Pink pearl gem - Prima
Sentiment - SRM Stickers

* I printed the image on my ink jet printer at 3x5" size using Picasa. Then I fussy cut it from the background.

Tools:

Computer and ink jet printer
Cricut Expression and Walk In My Garden cartridge
Scissors, ruler, craft knife and rotary cutter

I love the way this came out, with the big teapot and fluffy lace bow. I hope you have enjoyed it, too! Blessings, Becky

365 Cards . . . Challenge 241

2011-10-27T17:51:00.001-04:00

I have been wanting to take part in the 365 Cards challenges for a while now, and just never made time to make a project. But when I saw the challenge today, something clicked and I just KNEW that I was going to make a card this time! The challenge is to follow this card recipe:

4x4 card
2 patterned papers
ribbon
glitter
Halloween or fall theme
sentiment of your choice

And here is my card based on the recipe . . .

Supplies:

Base (kraft) card stock - The Paper Studio (Hobby Lobby)
Orange glitter card stock - DCWV
Patterned papers - Bella Blvd. 'Too Cute To Spook'
Sentiment - SRM Stickers
Button - my stash, a very cheapy black plastic button I coated with . . .
Stickles 'Copper'
Ribbon - my stash

I know that it looks like I used 3 patterned papers, but the striped paper in the rosette is the reverse side of the black and orange 'jack o'lantern' paper, so technically it's only two. At least, that's my story and I'm sticking to it! :o)

Tools:

Cricut Expression with Walk In My Garden and Elegant Edges cartridges
Martha Stewart scoring board
Scissors, ruler, rotary cutter and craft knife

So there's my first card for the challenges over at 365 Cards! I don't think it will be my last! Thanks for visiting, and hope to see you back here tomorrow for my Design Team project for Alphabet Challenge Blog. Blessings, Becky

Making Crafts for Craft Shows ...

2011-10-27T14:56:00.000-04:00

I've been very busy lately, and having a B*L*A*S*T doing it! Anyone who crafts knows how much fun it is to give up a day just to play with your supplies, and I've been doing a lot of that these days! I did a craft show in a small town north of here the first two weeks of October, and I have to say my little paper things sold quite well! As did the hand crocheted cotton dish cloths.

Now I have another festival on Saturday - just for a few hours, and then the first weekend in November I am doing a show in a small mountain town an hour or so north of here. And after my things sold so well a few weeks ago, I needed some new stock! One thing that sold very well were tags and bookmarks. Another was Christmas gift tags. So since Christmas is just around the bend, I've made a nice supply of the gift tags. Here are some examples ...

Aren't they cute? I used vintage images from either Flickr or a collage set I bought from an Etsy vendor (snow people), scraps of ribbon and lace, lots of Stickles, and inexpensive Christmas papers.

One new thing that I made were some very cute 'Candle Jars' that I first saw on the cover of the November/December Paper Crafts Magazine. The first moment I laid eyes on them I 'KNEW' that I wanted to make some for craft shows! My mama gave me the jars, I found a dozen candle holders on Amazon (not cheap, but not too much), and I traded some of my dish cloths with my friend Sue to get the battery powered candle tea lights. The ones with stuff inside are for display only - you don't get that as part of the jar! Before the show I'm going to get some starlight mints to put in a couple of them, too!

The candle fits in the top part, and you can fill the bottom with ornaments, candy, or anything you want! The papers I used for these are from Graphics 45.

One of my favorite projects for this year is this Christmas banner ...

This is made up of parts cut using my Cricut Expression and my very favorite cartridge, Elegant Edges. Note the red organza ribbon is shimmery and glittery and that matches the red drop baubles that drop off of the bottom of the letters. This is two parts that go together, and you could hang them on your mantle, a mirror, your front door (if it's protected from rain) or even on your Christmas tree.

And then there are the poinsettia tags. These are not hard to make, but I always end up with TONS of glue on my fingers when I make these.

One thing I've found about doing craft shows, and that is that how you display things can make a big difference in how they sell. Another thing I've learned is that the more suggestions for ways to use your products, the more likely you are to sell them!

So, with that in mind, I took a plain brown paper gift bag, lined it with red tissue, and tied one tag to the handle with jute twine. Then I stuck the packages of tags in the bag with a couple sticking up out of the bag. This will do two things - make a cute display, and give the customers an idea of how very pretty, easy, and inexpensive gift wrapping can be!

So that's a few of the things I've been making for my upcoming craft shows. Which do you like best? Which do you want to learn how to do??? I'll be doing a tutorial on making the poinsettia tags on Friendship's Garden Challenge in a few weeks, so keep tuned for more info on that!

Have a wonderful fall weekend, folks! Blessings, Becky

Friendship's Garden Bonus Challenge - Make a Tag!

2011-10-26T08:30:00.000-04:00

First, I want to apologize for not having this post up earlier, but I was having problems with Blogger last night and this post (I had it scheduled) did not publish!

Now, on to the main event! Y'all know how much I LOVE making tags, so it only made sense that we would have a tag challenge before long! The challenge is to make a tag ... with a halloween theme ... using a recipe of 1 image, 2 rick-rack and 3 bling. Here is my project ...

Supplies:

Base tag (#5 Manila) - Walmart.com
Patterned papers - Basic Grey, Fancy Pants Designs
Rick-Rack - stash (mostly estate sales)
Bling - Stickles 'platinum', Prima
Image - Flickr
Ink - Stampabilities
Ribbon - yard sale

Tools:

Computer and Ink Jet Printer
Cricut Expression and Elegant Edges cartridge
Scissors, craft knife, ruler, rotary cutter

I love making projects with vintage image ... of course you know that, but I really love 'fussy cutting' the images, popping them up on foam dots and making them the focal point of a project!

Now, how would you use a tag? Well, they make great gift tags, but I love to use them as little note cards! Write a love note to your significant other and slip it into their lunch bag, briefcase, on the dash of their car, etc. Use them as notes for your child's teacher to let them know you appreciate them! Have a friend who is having a hard time? Make a bunch and send one a day to let them know you have their back! There are so many different ways you can use tags ... even as a focus point in a card or a scrapbooking layout!

Thanks so much for joining us today ... now go create something and post it on Friendship's Garden blog for a chance to win a guest DT spot! Blessings, Becky

Sugar Creek Hollow - The Colors of Fall

2011-10-23T07:17:00.003-04:00

Fall is definitely in the air around here! In fact, for the last few days we've had below normal temperatures, making the air crisp and the leaves turn even faster. Today my hubby and I are taking our canoe to a small lake an hour or so from here and get out and paddle and enjoy the beautiful day!

That said, the challenge this week over at Sugar Creek Hollow is right on time, and so appropriate that I just had to take part in it! The challenge is to make a project using the colors of fall, and here is my project . . .

Supplies:

Base (kraft) card stock - The Paper Studio
Patterned paper - We R Memory Keepers
Image - Little Birdie Blessings
Lace and ribbon - My stash (very old, can't remember where I got them!)
Ink - Stampabilities
Button - Buttons Galore and More
Sentiment - SRM Stickers

Tools:

Computer and ink jet printer
Cricut Expression and Walk In My Garden cartridge
Scissors, craft knife, rotary cutter and ruler

When I found this image from Little Birdie Blessings I knew it would make a great card! The graphic of the corn is so large and so beautiful! I hope you have enjoyed your visit today! Now I'm off to get dressed and head out to paddle! Blessings, Becky

Our Creative Corner Challenge - Faces

2011-10-22T13:55:00.003-04:00

Hello folks! I just wanted to do a quick post to share with you this card I made for Our Creative Corner's challenge this week! The challenge is to feature a face or faces on your project. And here is my card . . .

I really let my 'vintage' style shine on this card, and I love it! Here are all the details . . .

Supplies:

Card stock (kraft) - The Paper Studio
Patterned papers - Melissa Frances
Red card stock - Core-dinations
Button - Buttons Galore and More
Ribbon - WalMart (Maybe!)
Sentiment - SRM Stickers
Image - Bumble Buttons
Ink - Stampabilities

Tools:

Computer and ink jet printer
Cricut Expression with Walk In My Garden and Elegant Edges cartridges
Ruler, scoring tool, rotary cutter, scissors and craft knife

Here is a close-up of the image I used . . .

I think this is one my very, VERY favorite images! I cut her out from the background and popped her up on some foam pieces. I also inked the edges to give it more of a feeling of age. I think I see some Christmas Tags using this in my future! :o)

Thanks so much for visiting, and come back soon to see what I've been working on! Blessings, Becky

Do you like giveaways???

2011-10-21T09:50:00.001-04:00

Well check out all these goodies from Websters Pages!!! Here's one pic of MY favorite from the giveaway . . . .

Isn't that one gorgeous, colorful bunch of drool-worthy goodness??? Follow the link above and go check it out for yourself! Blessings, Becky

Friendship's Garden Challenge 2 - A Vintage Halloween

2011-10-19T04:05:00.000-04:00

Hello! Welcome to my crafty blog, and challenge number TWO for Friendship's Garden! I was really pleased with the response in challenge 1, but hope to see even more this week!

Our challenge this week is to make a halloween card with a vintage feel, and here is my take on the challenge . . . .

I have to tell you that I LOVE this sweet image! I mean, what's with that finger up in the air? It's just adorable! Here are the details . . .

Supplies:

Base (kraft) card stock - The Paper Studio (Hobby Lobby)
Patterned papers - Black floral - Fancy Pants Designs; Numbers - House of Three
Image - Flickr
Ink - Stampabilities
Fibers: Vintage lace - estate sale find; Ribbon - Hobby Lobby; Twine - Pick Your Plum
Button - Buttons Galore and More
Stickles 'Gold'

Tools:

Computer and ink jet printer
Cricut Expression and Walk In My Garden cartridge
Scissors, rotary trimmer, craft knife and ruler

I really love that funny, sweet image - but then I've already said that! Please go to the Friendship's Garden blog and join in the fun! One person will win a $10.00 gift certificate from Altered Angel and a guest designer spot. Thanks for visiting! Becky

'Spooky Stuff' - The Kraft Journal Challenge

2011-10-17T17:01:00.001-04:00

Y'all all know I love my kraft paper, and of course I love the challenges over at The Kraft Journal! The Kraft Journal is the creative blog for The Kraft Outlet, a cool online shop that sells all kinds of kraft papers, envelopes, manilla tags, and a whole lot more.

It's been several weeks since I've had a chance to participate, so I really enjoyed getting back into the swing of things the last couple of days. This week's challenge at The Kraft Journal is 'Spooky Stuff', and as always the DT came through with some amazing projects! Here is my take on the theme of 'Spooky Stuff' . . . .

Supplies:

Base (kraft) card stock - The Paper Studio
Patterned papers - Bella Blvd - Too Cute To Spook!
Image - Flickr
Black card stock (behind rosette) - The Paper Studio
Glassine paper - Pick Your Plum
Spooky and jack o'lantern stickers - SRM Stickers
Gems - Prima
Stickles 'Platinum' and 'Diamond'
Black Wire - Walmart Hardware Dept.
Ink - Stampabilities
Ribbon - my stash (it's OLD!)

Tools:

Computer and ink jet printer
Cricut Expression with Walk In My Garden and Elegant Edges cartridges
Martha Stewart Paper Trimmer
Martha Stewart Scoring Board
Scissors, ruler, craft knife

Don't you love that cute spider? Well, it was printed on the bottom right hand corner of the patterned paper, and I cut so that I could keep it on my card. I added a couple of drops of Diamond Stickles on the eyes, and the black wire 'web' is stuck down into the card and covered with a small square of kraft card stock to cover it and hold it in place.

And that is my card for the 'Spooky Stuff' challenge! I hope you like it, and I hope you come back soon! Blessings, Becky

Feeling Fruity???

2011-10-17T11:58:00.003-04:00

Hi Folks! The first two weekends of October I worked my booth at a fall festival and craft show a little over an hour northwest of here. I had a blast, and was amazed at the sales I made! Now I have another 1 weekend show coming up the first weekend of November, so I've been working on some projects for that show. Here's a little peek . . . .

I've made 8 sets of 6 fruit themed cards! The fruit are cut using my Cricut Expression and the 'Preserves' cartridge.

There are six different fruits, but I put the apple on front, because I love this cute apple! But there is also a strawberry, cherries, blackberry, watermelon and a pear. Here is a 'sample' card I've made so customers can see what the different fruits look like . . . .

Aren't they cute???

And now I'm making Christmas gift tags. I sold tons of tags and bookmarks at the last sale, so I want to build my stock of those back up, too.

So, that's what I've been up to . . . what are you making these days???

Oh, and don't forget that this Wednesday is challenge # 2 over at Friendship's Garden, so please come join us and make a project based on the challenge. If you do, you could win a $10.00 gift certificate from our sponsor, Altered Angel, and be a special guest designer for an upcoming challenge.

Blessings, Becky

Visiting Old Friends @ Unscripted Sketches

2011-10-17T11:43:00.000-04:00

Most of you know that a couple of months ago I stepped down from the Design Team at Unscripted Sketches. It was hard to do, but I'd been there for a year, and it was just time for a change. Plus, I knew by then that I was going to start my own new challenge blog, and would need time to work on that. And when I left, I told my friends there (and they are one very special group of ladies!) that I would try to come back from time to time and participate in a challenge. And I finally had time to do that this weekend! Here is the sketch for this week . . . .

Now, I have to tell you, I missed the part that this was a piggyback week, but I know the girls at US will forgive me that slip!

Here is my project based on the sketch . . . .

Supplies:

Base card stock (kraft) - The Paper Studio
Patterned paper and stamp elements - Graphics 45 'Christmas Emporium' collection
Sentiment - SRM Stickers
Stickles 'Platinum'
Ink - Stampabilities

Tools:

Cricut Expression and Walk In My Garden cartridge
Martha Stewart Paper Trimmer
Scissors, craft knife, ruler

I've really become a huge fan of Graphics 45 products, and the vintage feel of this Christmas line is right up my alley! Thanks for visiting today, and please come back soon, because I've got a post about some things I've been making for an upcoming craft show and sale! Blessings, Becky

A Card for a Friend, and Two Challenges!

2011-10-17T11:24:00.001-04:00

Hi Folks! One of my very, very best friends has had a horrible weekend, and I wanted to make a card for her, but inspiration was nowhere to be found ... until I went looking at some of the current challenges out there, and then I found plenty of inspiration! Here are the two challenges ....

Daring Cardmakers - make a project with a bird on it (my friend LOVES birds!), and
Card Patterns Sketch # 137 . . . .

And here is my card based on the challenges ....

Supplies:

Base card - Michaels Value Pack
Patterned paper - Lily Bee Designs
Pink cardstock (behind image) - The Paper Studio
Image - Little Birdie Blessings
Flower - Prima
Fibers - Vintage lace and yellow ribbon - estate sales; Pink lace - October Afternoon
Sentiment - SRM Stickers

Tools:

Computer and ink jet printer
Cricut Expression and Elegant Edges cartridge (scalloped circle)
Cuttlebug and Classic Circles Small Spellbinders Nestabilities
Martha Stewart Paper Trimmer
Scissors, ruler, craft knife

I'm trying to do a better job of finishing the inside of my cards, so here is what I did on the inside of this card ...

Thanks for visiting today! I'll be right back with another card for another challenge, and then a post about some of the things I've made for my upcoming craft show! Blessings, Becky

Alphabet Challenge Blog - S for Soon to be Halloween!

2011-10-14T08:46:00.001-04:00

Thanks for visiting today! The challenge over at Alphabet Challenge Blog is 'S' and S is for Soon to be Halloween! Here is my project based on the challenge ...

Supplies:

Base (kraft) card stock - The Paper Studio
Patterned paper (background and diamond border) - Fancy Pants Designs
Polka dotted paper - Echo Park
Image - clip art software
Stickles 'Platinum'
Ink - Stampabilities

Tools Used:

Computer and ink jet printer
Cricut Expression and Walk In My Garden and Elegant Edges cartridges
Rotary cutter, scissors, ruler and craft knife

And that's that! A very sweet card with a very cute vintage post card image! Thanks so much for visiting, and please come back soon! Blessings, Becky

Finally! Time for a Challenge - or two!

2011-10-13T17:07:00.001-04:00

Hi Folks! Things have been kind of crazy around here lately! Not only have I just started a new card making challenge blog, but the last two weekends I have spent long 12 - 14 hour days working my booth at a craft show in the mountains a little over an hour north of here. It was so much fun, and I think fairly successful! It was amazing how some people walked right by my goods, and others stood and went through everything and drooled ... a few even bought some things! But all this has left little time for crafting other than for design team assignments!

But not any more! Today I'm here to share a card I made for two challenges:

Papercraft Star whose theme is autumn, plus you have to use a leaf on your project, and
Crafty Creations Challenge who has a recipe this week - 3 patterned papers, 2 embellishments, and 1 image.

And here is my card based on both challenges ...

And here are the details ...

Supplies:

Card stock - The Paper Studio (kraft)
Base patterned paper - Pink Paislee
Two other patterned papers - My Minds Eye
Image - Flickr
Ribbon - Offray (Walmart)
Sentiment - SRM Stickers
Leaf - Purchased on vacation at a scrapbook store - don't know name of manufacturer
Stickles 'Platinum'

Tools Used:

Cricut Expression and Elegant Edges cartridge
Computer and ink jet printer
Rotary cutter, scissors, craft knife and ruler

I think this is a cute card, and the image is just adorable! Thanks for visiting today, and please come back soon! Blessings, Becky

Crafty Creations Challenges

2011-10-05T18:39:00.001-04:00

Hi there! I wanted to share a project with you that I made for the Crafty Creations Challenge! Their challenge is to create a crafty decoration. And here is my project ...

It's a banner for halloween, and made with lots of bling! Here are the details ...

Supplies:

Card stock - Bazzill, Core'dinations, and The Paper Studio
Patterned paper - My Minds Eye
Stickles 'Stardust'
Ribbon and beads - my stash

Tools:

Cricut Expression with Songbird and Elegant Edges cartridges
Scissors, craft knife, ruler
1/4 inch hole punch

I love making banners, and this is one of my favorites! Thanks so much for visiting! Blessings, Becky

It's HERE!!! Friendship's Garden Challenge Blog Is ON!!!

2011-10-05T03:57:00.000-04:00

Hi there! After weeks of obsessing over decisions, searching for Design Team members and sponsors, and working out little bumps in the road, the time is HERE!!!

Friendship's Garden Challenge Blog is now officially started!!! This challenge is pretty special to me, and I hope it will become special to you, too! Our main focus is to create cards and other paper crafting projects in which you can not use a stamped image! And as time goes on we will be talking about places where you can find great images! If you are curious, you can look at the list of some of my favorite places to find images - in the column to your right, way down below the list of challenges.

Now, on to the challenge! Today's challenge is to create a card using the theme of new beginnings - a new home, baby, job, car, wedding - you name it, just as long as you keep to the theme of new beginnings. BUT! There is a twist! And that is that the front of your card must have a 'window' or cut out opening on it. Here is my card for the challenge ...

Supplies:

Card stock - The Paper Studio
Patterned paper - Making Memories
Image - Flickr
Ribbon - Bluebird Lane Etsy shop
Sentiment - SRM Stickers

Tools:

Cricut Expression and Walk In My Garden cartridge
Cuttlebug
Spellbinders Nestabilities 'Labels 4'
Computer and ink jet printer
Scissors, ruler, craft knife and rotary tool

And that is my first project for the Friendship's Garden first ever challenge! Now, if you are following the blog hop, you need to click above and go back to the main Friendship's Garden blog and leave a few comments for a chance to win the blog hop prize sponsored by Designs on Cloud 9. Also, in order to be in for a chance to win the $10 prize sponsored by Altered Angel, you must enter a project based on the challenge.

Now, off you go, back to Friendship's Garden! Blessings, Becky

Alphabet Challenge Blog - R is for Recipe

2011-09-30T08:50:00.002-04:00

Hello! This week's challenge over at Alphabet Challenge Blog is to make a project using the following recipe:

One Image
Two backing (or patterned) papers
Three Flowers

And here is my card for this challenge . . .

And I made this card several weeks ago, and only realized this morning that I didn't follow the recipe! Why didn't someone tell me!!!

Here are the supplies:

Base card stock - The Paper Studio
Patterned papers - Doodlebug Designs
Flowers and gems - Prima
Ribbon - yard sale find
Sentiment - SRM Press

Please take time to go visit Alphabet Challenge blog and all the Design Team's blogs to find some beautiful cards and amazing inspiration! Blessings, Becky!

Tag Tuesday - Recycle The Trash

2011-09-25T19:20:00.000-04:00

Woohoo! We are back from vacation, and I'm ready to get to crafting again! We had a great week at a Florida state park near Pensacola, and didn't want to come home. I guess that's a sign of a great vacation, right?

Rebecca over at the new Tag Tuesday challenge really got creative this week! Her challenge is to recycle the trash! Yep, use things out of the garbage to make your tag this week. Here is my tag ...

I actually took the tag out of the trash because I'd started something and didn't like it, and it was inked black on the edges and kind of crinkled up. I finished inking the whole front, then added a layer of white tacky glue. Then I added an old, used, washed, then dried again fabric softener sheet, and tore it into pieces. It had spider web looking bits, so I knew - okay, spider's web, and kept tearing and layering bits and pieces as long as the glue would allow.

While the glue was wet I sprinkled on some silver German glass glitter, and it gives a really neat effect. Next I stuck on two SRM Stickers - one says 'creepy' and the other is a spider. I still wanted something kind of creepy, so I mixed red, yellow, blue and green food coloring with rubbing alcohol, put it into a small spray bottle and sprayed it onto the whole thing., and then dried it with a heat embossing gun. The labels curled up (which is what I wanted), and the white shows from under the stickers. It's so not me, but I really love how it turned out!

It felt good to be creating again!

The next few weeks are going to be really crazy, because the next 2 weekends I have craft shows, and I'm totally not ready, but I'll get done what I can, and the rest will just have to not get done! I hope to be back soon with another project! Blessings, Becky

Alphabet Challenge Blog - Q is for Quick and Simple

2011-09-16T04:38:00.000-04:00

This week's challenge at Alphabet Challenge Blog was fun, but so not me! The theme this week is 'Q is for Quick and Simple', and although I normally tend to keep piling on stuff and obsessing over getting a project 'just right', this time my card came together in no time! I used the amazing new papers by Authentique, and they truly are wonderful! Thick, heavyweight papers, beautiful colors, and a large line of coordinating colors and patterns, are only some of the features of this wonderful new line.

Here is my project based on the challenge . . .

Here are the details . . .

Supplies:

Base card stock - The Paper Studio
Patterned paper - Authentique
Sentiment - SRM Stickers
Ribbon - yard sale find!

Tools:

Cricut Expression and Walk In My Garden cartridge
Scissors, craft knife, ruler, rotary cutter

Cricut Cuts:

Card base - Walk In My Garden cartridge, card2 set at 5"
Patterned paper - WIMG cartridge, card1 set at 5"

I really love the beautiful roses on this paper, and the big black bow really adds a beautiful accnt. Thanks so much for joining me today! Don't forget to go by the Alphabet Challenge Blog (link above) and check out this week's challenge, and all the other DT member's projects!

Blessings, Becky

Psssstttt! It's official!!!

2011-09-15T21:51:00.001-04:00

Announcing . . .

The Friendship's Garden Design Team 'Garden Girls'

Erin Bullock - Ohio, USA
Dena Jones - Hawaii, USA
Carolyn LaBille - Illinois, USA
Ciska Reilly - The Netherlands
CherylAnn Robinson - Canada
Becky Garrison 'Lead Garden Girl' - Georgia, USA

First challenge happens on October 5th - you better be there!!!

Guest Designer - Papercraft Star Challenge 62 - Anything Goes

2011-09-14T09:08:00.001-04:00

I am so very excited to share with you that I am being featured as Guest Designer over at Papercraft Star today! The challenge for today is 'Anything Goes', and I chose to make a mini-album, or journal, using items from The House Across The Bay (THATB), a wonderful Etsy shop that sponsors Papercraft Star's challenges! THATB has a large line of digital papers, images and ephemera that is both beautiful and so easy to use!

Here is my project . . .

Supplies:

Base chipboard - pieces of 12 x 12 chipboard that come with patterned paper I buy at my LSS
Patterned (Ledger) paper - The House Across The Bay (link takes you directly to this item!)
Image - The House Across The Bay FREEBIE from Papercraft Star (August 22 post)
Sentiment - SRM Stickers
Ink - Stampabilities
Bits and pieces of ribbons - my stash
Jump rings (to hold together) - Hobby Lobby
Graph paper for inside pages - WalMart

Tools:

Cricut Expression and Elegant Edges (EE) cartridge
Computer and ink jet printer
Scissors, ruler, craft knife and rotary cutter

Cricut Cuts:

Covers and inside pages of journal were cut using the Elegant Edges cartridge - <Swirl1-s> using 'Book' feature. The chipboard and patterned paper covers were cut at 5" and the graph papers for inside the journal were cut at 4 3/4".

I had lots of fun making this journal, and I want to send a huge THANK YOU!!! to the folks at Papercraft Star for allowing me to be their guest designer today! Please check out Papercraft Star and The House Across The Bay and see all the DT members projects for today, too!

Blessings, Becky

Tag Tuesday - Flowerpot

2011-09-13T10:30:00.002-04:00

I loved the challenge over at Tag Tuesday this week, because I immediately knew what I wanted to do! The challenge is to feature a flower pot on your tag, and here is mine . . .

I cut the flowerpot using my Cricut and Walk In My Garden cartridge, but all the leaves and petals are hand cut. Here are the supplies:

Base tag - #5 manila - WalMart (online)
Flower pot base - Bazzill
Brown cardstock - The Paper Studio
Cream cardstock - yard sale find
Brown flower - Prima
White flower -stash
Inks - Stampabilities and Anna Griffin
Embossing Powder - Ranger
Ribbon - Hobby Lobby

I loved doing all the cutting, scoring and folding and inking! And I think it's a really pretty tag. Thanks for visiting! Blessings, Becky

I'm Here!

2011-09-07T20:38:00.002-04:00

Hi there! Just a quick note to let you know I'm here! I've just been busy with stuff around the house, working on the new Friendship's Garden Challenge Blog admin stuff, and getting ready for some craft shows I'm doing this fall. Thus no time for challenges! Oh, and vacation is coming up in a few weeks and I'm trying to get things ready for that, too! So, I wanted to share a pic I took of some of the crafty things I'm working on . . .

These are just 'parts' that will be used to make larger crafty goodness, but they really make me happy!

So, although I'm not around so much right now, things will pick up soon! Talk to you later, Becky

P is for Pretty Pastels - Alphabe Challenge Blog

2011-09-02T10:13:00.000-04:00

Good Morning! I am sitting in the McDonalds nearest me (8-10 miles) using their wifi because I woke up this morning to no phone and no internet! So, a quick post!

This week's challenge at Alphabet Challenge Blog is 'P is for Pretty Pastels', and here is my card . . .

All pattterned papers are from K&Co. 'cut-n-paste' stack. Cardstock is The Paper Studio, Gems from Prima, seam binding and vintage button from my stash. Inks - Anna Griffin, sentiment is SRM Stickers.

Thanks so much for visiting! Blessings, Becky

New Tag Tuesday - Have A Heart

2011-09-01T16:46:00.001-04:00

The theme for this week's challenge over at the new Tag Tuesday is 'Have A Heart', meaning a heart needs to be the focal point of your project. Here is my tag ...

A few nights ago I didn't sleep well, and the next day I was groggy and pretty much out of it from lack of sleep. I wanted to do something crafty, but didn't have a plan, so I took a tag and just started playing with inks and embossing powders and even a sheet of silver leaf I found in my stash. I just played with it and messed around, and here is what I came up with. As for products, I know I used a Melissa Frances rub-on for the wings, and several Anna Griffin and Stampabilities inks, and I don't remember where the chipboard heart came from. But I think it's pretty cool!

Thanks for visiting, Blessings! Becky

Papercraft Star #60 - Steampunk

2011-09-01T09:41:00.001-04:00

It's odd that sometimes what we think is our style and what we think is totally NOT our style, can sometimes merge into a fun combination! I am finding this is the case with the steampunk trend that is so popular these days. I would never have thought that I would like making steampunk projects, but instead, I am really loving it!

This week's challenge at Papercraft Star is to make a steampunk themed project. Now, I made this project as a part of my application for the Papercraft Star design team, and although I didn't make the team, I still wanted to share this card, because I think it's pretty cool!

Supplies:

Base (kraft) cardstock - The Paper Studio
Patterned paper - Gartner Studios - Bon Voyage - Map (found at Michaels)
Chipboard pinwheel - Bo Bunny
Enjoy The Journey Stamp - Tim Holtz
Brads, game spinner and sprockets - Tim Holtz Idea-ology
Black wire - WalMart hardware department (it's a very soft plastic coated wire)
Steampunk image - The Graphics Fairy
Inks - Stampabilities and Anna Griffin
Embossing Powders - Ranger

Tools:

Computer and ink jet printer
EK Success border punch
Scissors, craft knife, ruler, rotary cutter
Heat embossing tool

Tips:

I cut the paper so that the lines on the map were so I could put the game spinner in the center
The chip board was 'blackboard' chip board, so I inked it and added several colors of embossing powders, heating in between each, to get the grungy look you see
For the wired sprockets, I attached the end of the wire to one of the sprockets, then wrapped the wire around once, attached another sprocket, wrapped it once again, attached the last sprocket, and then twisted the wire together to hold it all together. I really love that look!

And yes, I love this card! It is perfect for a young man going to college, or an older man retiring and starting a new journey in his life. Or any other occasion you can imagine! Thanks so much for visiting me today! Come back soon and see what I've been up to here at Camellia Cottage. Blessings, Becky