Lana Jo's Paper Scraps n More

Scrapping Ease Using Kits and Sketches Together!!!

2016-05-13T16:47:00.002-07:00

Hello, How are you this week? Hope you feel a scrappy mojo burst of energy! Lately, I have been learning tips I've picked up from Shimelle's class, "The Scrapbook Process", class has allowed me more freedom to get busy into the scrapping and less into the decision process. By the way I encourage you to check out her online classes. If your like me, you can easily get distracted by a number of things. My brain will easily side track by the pretty things, things I need to clean or organize or cool techniques I want to try. However, the way she explained putting it all together was actually very helpful.

Here is the sketch shown on Shimelle's blog. Here!

Here is my interpretation of the blog sketch. When I came across my pre-made kit I put together a while back. I was so thrilled to discover I had the perfect vintage style birthday papers Cartabella- "Its a Celebration" for actual vintage photos of me and during that era of the 60's. Don't you love it when papers come together so well with what you planned? (pg. created for my Childhood album).

Don't be afraid to mix old and new product together. Here you will notice some older style bling title. Did you know you can change the color of rhinestones with permanent markers or Copics? I also found some very old RED Lined style adhesive numbers from Stampin Up from 10yrs ago. I added some guilding with gold leaf on the number "6", and a few circles.

Sometime you find the best titles are on the journal cards and tags. Here I cut apart a journal card, inked and of course if you know me, one of the things I love is adding glossing accents, ink and bling.

Don't be afraid to cut up the journal cards and create your own embellishments with them. I adored the expressions on the journal card and fussy cut it as embellishment, below...

Above you will notice more inking, bling and using some layering techniques with the round stickers and circle punches more glossy accents along with a banner label from the collection. Yes, that is me a little more 40 plus years ago as the birthday girl.

If your like me you grab this or that, then decide not to use it. Before long you have to climb out of your scrapping area.. Or is that just me? lol. Shimelles class showed me techniques for getting the most out of my precious allotted scrapbook times. For years, I have been putting kits together with old and new items, but never utilized them before now. Having a plan really does help! I'm Not a planner by all means. So having something to follow makes a HUGE difference and helps to get you going on a page. Limiting yourself to using mostly whats in the kit might help keep you from getting buried alive at your scrapbook table.. I hope you can spend a few extra minutes to get to know this technique of kitting, (is that a word)? Pairing your supplies, both old/new, along with sketches really helps me get out of my rut, use more of what I have and feel good about it again. I hope you will try this. Bring on your old and new products and mix it up.. Lets see what you can do!!!

Make sure you link back here to let me see your pages.

With Love,
Lana Jo.

Tearing it up; Using Paper Scraps and bits.

2016-05-08T09:01:00.000-07:00

While taking Shimelle's class "The Scrapbook Process" we were challenged to use our scraps.. The other day viewing her blog at Shimelle.com, I noticed feature designer; " May Flam" of http://mayflaum.com/ showed ideas for making a card using torn paper. I thought how cute..I haven't done a page with torn paper for quite some time. I was inspired to just play.. So I went through stacks of left over bits of papers, velum's, glitter card stock, foiled paper and card stock and tore, tucked and glued. I think on some of the torn papers I used bits of lace, paper edged lace punch, cheese cloth...I just played. Now I came up with three backgrounds. what was I going to do with them. Die Cut? Background Paper? Card? Then Shimelle.com gave us the challenge in class and then Voila...I knew where I was going with it.

Papers in 3 samples above include scraps from Doodlebug glitter card stock, Sei Foiled Estrada, Stampin up, Paper studio and so many others. I even used the product backing from October afternoon and pink paislee.

Here is a sample I used for the background to my Layout title..2015 Halloween of Boo-Tweens.

To mist the background I used both Stampin Up Markers and the Misting tool, as well as Heidi Swapp color Shine. I found some old Making Memories black Halloween stickers (stars) and word- fettie. I also used a spiderweb doily from Stampin Up which I added stickles to. I added sequins and more tickles. and various thickers. Some of the stampin up stickers were outline stars..of course I filled it with stickles.. lol.. In addition I found some old Heidi Grace Rub-ons that were begging me to use them. Of course I added stickles to that too. Halloween pages are more fun with bling and shine.

I wished i used some cheese cloth tucked in..maybe later. Sometimes you have to just let things set for a while then decide. I'm OK with this either way. I was very happy when I discovered this photo of the grandkids and how well it matched the torn background paper I created.

Thank You to Shimelle Laine, and May
Flam for bringing inspiration to me.

I hope you will try and use up those scraps.. Don't forget to tuck in layers of vellum, lace, cheese cloth for added interest.

I would love to see your torn papers.
Happy Scrapping.

With Love,
Lana Jo. :)

My Cup of Happy

2016-05-05T20:18:00.004-07:00

I have been so excited this week. I am in the process of taking Shimelles Scrapbook Process class at Shimelle.com As a scrapbook artist, I am really learning more about pulling my albums together with more purpose..Before my albums where filled with pretty pictures and some bits of journeling However, all my albums felt choppy and lacked flow. With that in mind, I am going to start an album about our new upcoming adventure-The Next Chapter of our life together. I want to journal/scrapbook a album about buying 150 year old house in Kentucky and flipping it. We have been flipping houses for a while, however this is unlike all the others..

In my early adult years, I was into the country look back in the 80s. I always dreamt of a big white Victorian beauty, with rambling front porches suggesting a time of simplicity and beauty. At the time, the dream seemed too far beyond grasp.

My husband and I have been talking for years about moving to Kentucky close to my family. Living in Texas has its ups and downs like anywhere. The heat is unbearable at times. One day a cousin put post on facebook about a house for sale.. It was so grand with elegance and details that you don't ever see on new house. We decided to go for it. We put a bid on the house and drove up to Kentucky. When we got there, it was nothing like it was advertised and would need so much work. The same cousin told us about another house that was a historical home. She knew the lady well that once lived there. Since she passed the family was going to part everything out and put it up for auction. This broke my cousins heart. So we agreed to go see it... We pulled up and first thing I saw was 2 really old Victorian style homes, one more finished looking- at least on the outside.. The one we looked at was a big white Victorian home. It was full of antiques and in very good condition considering it was 150 years old. We decided almost within that day we were going to buy it..I didn't even know it had a Gazebo on the side.. I always wanted one of those...Now I have one. I have my dreams come true. I go outside and take my coffee and think about all the things I want to do when we retire and live there full time. So here's to my cup of happy.. I feel very blessed.

Products used: Shimelle collections, Doodlebug rhinestones, Heidi Swapp Chipboard alpha stickers, Stickers, Stickles, Ranger Crackle accents (on cup and heart) and Distress ink for edges. Older Heidi Swapp chipboard alphas are altered with stickles.

As I was thinking about my title and journal. I was remembering how I didn't even see the gazebo before we decided to buy it. The next day the owner allowed us to spend the night and get a feel for the place. The first thing I did the next morning was make a pot of coffee and go out to the gazebo and just soak in and dream.. That's how I came up with the title, "My Cup Of Happy", it references to more than the wonderful aroma of coffee.

I hope you enjoy this layout. Some of my favorite things to add to a layout are Translucent items such as Ranger glossy accents or Crackle accents, acetates, translucent acrylic items, stickles, rhinestones and anything shiny like epoxy. I love to take older items and jazz them up to fit my layout. I would love to see how you mix up or the items above or jazz up older product and mix with new product. Let me know what you think.

Happy Scrapping
Lana Jo

Time is Precious

2016-05-01T07:16:00.000-07:00

My tribute to a beautiful soul

...Joey Feek...

I remember when I first saw the couple Joey and Rory Feek on, "Can YOU Duet". I fell in love

with them and their genuine charm. When they looked at each other you could just see the love pour out of them.

August 1, 2009. I got a call from my hubby while he was working at the fire station in Temple, Tx. He said: "Honey, Joey and Rory are going to be in Troy Texas tonight giving a concert." The kids and I drove from Killeen, Tx to see them. We were able to get up close. The concert was amazing. They were so genuine and once again you could see the love pour out of them. I was so excited that I was able to get to meet them after the concert and they gave me a hug, They met, took pics with fans even though it began to rain a little.

I watched them the past few years, listening to their music and following their journey. What beautiful news to find out that they were expecting a baby girl, later named Indiana. God chose a very special couple to become the parents of such a sweet little girl.

Not long after, Joey was diagnosed with Cervical Cancer. She fought so strong and so long. She was courageous and fearless knowing her father in heaven had a plan. Finding out that there was nothing more could be done and hospice was called in was heart-wrenching at times as I followed their blog. Even through the tears and I'm sure sometimes anger at the thought of missing out, their faith and love still shined through and was genuine as when I first saw them.

Many prayers nationwide were said. Gods plan is something we cannot fathom. He can see our path with a bigger view than we can see for ourselves. Sometimes its so hard to understand, why the good people are taken from us, while others are not. That is where faith comes in. Trusting the plan. Trusting where your final destiny is. Trusting that when God calls us to seek him out, to let him handle it and have faith that even though we don't get the answers we want, that its OK.
When I lost my daughter Rachel at nearly 4 months of age back in Jan 1987, I had no idea how much my faith would be tested. I smile when I think of the day that I will be re-united with all the love and family, Rejoicing in our fathers presence.
Picture of Rory in front of Joeys grave.

In the Bible, Jesus says: John Chapt14;1-8
Jesus Comforts His Disciples
1. Do not let your hearts be troubled. You bleieve in God; believe also in me. 2. My Fathers house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I hav told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? 3. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. 4. You know the way to the place where I am going.
Jesus the Way to the Father 5 Thomas said to him, “Lord, we don’t know where you are going, so how can we know the way?”6Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. 7If you really know me, you will know^b my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him.”

John 3:15 "For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.

If you dont know Jesus, if your not sure that God is real, search your heart..Do you feel that little tugging at your heart? An internal whisper, despite any anger or doubt that says maybe. the Holy Spirit tugs at our heart to open up and allow God to fill us up. I encourage you to sit where your at and ask Jesus for help. Ask Jesus to come into your heart. Ask for forgiveness for any bitterness, hate or confusion you feel and ask that he wash you clean of all these bad feelings or doubt.

I pray that if you are not saved that the Holy Spirit will tug at your heart and move you closer to receiving salvation through Christ Jesus.

If you need someone to pray with you you can contact me via email then phone. firemanswife.lana@yahoo.com or facebook message me. Lana Steele Bisson. I would be happy to pray with you.

(Picture of me with Joey an Rory on lower right side of scrapbook page opens up to journal about meeting them.)

Thank You for stopping by my blog and I pray that you are touched by Joey and Rorys story.

OUR HAPPY ACCIDENTAL ADVENTURE IN WAXAHACHIE TEXAS

2016-04-24T13:17:00.000-07:00

Our happy accidental adventure took us to The crafty scrapper in Waxahatchie Tx. http://www.thecraftyscrapper.com

About 6 months ago, my husband and I bought a 150 year old home in Kentucky. With retirement soon approaching, we have tried to go up to Kentucky to get as much work done as we can on the house while spending time with my parents who live in nearby area.
Our plan was to go up Easter weekend. Celebrating the memorial and life of my dear Aunt Pat who passed away as well as spend time with family and get some work done on the house. Debbie, one of my dearest and closest friends wanted to follow us up there, see my house then travel on to her part of Kentucky to see her family. As we are approaching as sign that said Waxahachie 12 miles away, She said to be in a joking way, "We oughta just make a detour and pop in and find that big scrapbook store we have been wanting to see.". I laughed, "I wish we could but we already got a late start". A few minutes later, a man on a motorcycle motioned my hubby ahead of us pulling a trailer with materials , to pull over. The men got out of the car and inspected the tire.. we weren't sure what was going on and at the time we thought it was a motorcycle cop. We pulled back onto the road and within minutes the back tire of the trailer billowed smoke. So, not realizing where we were yet, we followed behind to the nearest town and pulled off into a Napa auto store. Just for kicks I pulled out my phone and joked and said, " Might take a while, might as well look for scrappy stores or thrift shops..". My next words went something like this.. "Oh my gosh..NO WAY... DEBBIE WE ARE right NEXT TO A SCRAPBOOK STORE"! We got out, phone in hand, began walking and following map. She said, "Where is Rogers Street"? We both looked up and said...Right there in front of us. As we turned the corner, There it was.. I think I might have squealed for joy. I don't remember in all the excitement. As we approached we were in AWE of how beautiful and all the vintage yummy displays and how well it was stocked with current trends, and supplies. It was so beautifully staged and propped and so well organized. They had just about everything you could imagine. Its probably good we don't live close by. I surely think I would spend my whole paycheck there or try to anyway. They offer classes and there was so many wonderful examples of how to use the many various products. The staff is so nice and helpful and make you feel so much at home. I know the brick and mortar stores are struggling. I just hope this one continues its success. Thank you "The Crafty Scrapper for your hospitality and having a store that is so fun to look at.

This store is merchandised so beautifully with rustic shabby chic appeal and vintage treasures everywhere the eyes could see. The samples made using various products were exceptional quality and craftsmanship. If you live in Central Texas, it is definitely worth a day trip. The town has so much historical appeal as well.

This is the page I created to capture the day. Our excitement was off the charts. I am the darker hair on the right and Debbie is to my left. My daughter Erica was there as well. She thought we were nuts. "She Inst a scrapbooker-yet"!
I used various Amy Tangerine papers, as well as distressing the edges. I incorporated Simple stores pattern paper using a circle punch and then added some Simple Stories card stock stickers. other items used were Dear Lizzy enamel dots, Gold Glitter thickers, Gold Dazzlers by hot of the press, Pebbles peppercorn alphas for the yr date. I stamped on acetate with stazon ink and punched the butterfly out. I made my own ribbon flower at bottom left and the aqua/green flowers with punches.

You can see I also used some gold dots that looked more like studs. (i don't remember the name) and I used Heidi Swapp colorshine sprays for coloring cheesecloth bits I added around clusters. You cant tell from this very much but I also used pearlescent watercolor to add drips to the background paper.

More hand made flowers, and circles cut from simple stories, bit of Amy Tangerine papers...(I LOVE THIS ENVELOPE SILVER FOIL PAPER) so much prettier in person. I also used Simple Stories card stock sticker, Tag and heart.. and Simple Stories, (I think Carpe Diem brads).

I want to encourage you to find the adventure in the everyday things. We made lemonade- wait... Scratch that... we made margaritas with the lemon that life gave us that day... So here's to a whole pitcher full of lemons..Please hold the salt and enjoy the everyday and sometimes accidental adventures and make sure you write it all down in a journal. because trust me, even though Debbie and I are a young set of 50+ year old, we do forget.

I want to thank you for stopping by my blog and please be patient as I try to fix some of the sizing ratios...Hopefully it will be easier to read soon.

Happy Scrappy Adventures.
As Always
With LOVE,
Lana Jo....

Social Media Inspiration and Scrapping the funny everyday moments!!!

2016-04-20T16:10:00.002-07:00

My 7 kids are grown. We are 9 grandchildren into the grandparent phase of our life. We are still young. However I have teen grandsons ready to drive and new grand babies learning to walk. Even these moments go by so fast. My grandson Kason is a funny little guy. He says the craziest random things and we shake our head wondering where he gets his phrases.. Then I look at both his mama and my husband and I need to wonder no more... Sometimes I have trouble getting started on what to scrapbook about. Lately I've been turning to Facebook posts to give me inspiration to scrap. My daughter posts quite often this thing called "Kasonisms" apparently he has a small following of people who look to see what crazy thing he is going to say next. So if your in a Scrapbook Slump, look to your Facebook, Twitter, or other social media and see if your inspired by posts. Even quotes that are often posted are a great way to start your creative inspiration.

I love to mix up old and not so old papers/products with new product. In "Born to Inspire Laughter/ My Favorite Kasonism" layout I've used American Crafts, Shimelle;true stories cardstock stickers and paper, Heidie Swapp; colorshine and mixed company glitter stickers, Thickers, and Dearl Lizzy; Lucky charm collection. Also included are Pink Paislee; Foil memorandum stickers, Doodlebug; sequins, Simple Stories Carpe Diem and alpha stickers, and SEI foil Entrada collection, Pebbles harvest peppercorn alphas ,Craft Medley rhinestones, Hot off the Press; Dazzles stickers.

To the Left you will see close ups of the embellished areas. I try to keep embellishments flowing in somewhat of a triangle shape. Good tips I have learned from many of the scrapbooking Guru's I think the main idea is to have fun and not worry if its not perfect. Tell the stories and share the memories.

Next layout: Remember Papa Dont water the Froggy and Fishys!!!
Here is a great example of my hoarding... I have held on to this Basic Grey Collection for years. I still love it. I think it was called skate shoppe. I have never been into cutesy, but I adored this, yet avoided cutting into it. Now I wish I had more. (ah the disease of a paper hoarder)... SSSh- don't judge me, lol... So when I decided to do this layout, I was reminded of the story of how Papa always killed fishy's and froggy's by watering them too much, or lack of remembering to turn off the water. Here I used American Craft Shimelles light bulb paper as a water dripping feeling, also because he is bright and inquisitive

I used American Crafts Thickers, Shimelle cardstock stickers and true stories paper, Pebbles Peppercorn alphas, Basic Grey 3 different patterns (skateshop?) , Paper studio washi tapes, Craft Medley sequin's, Simple Stories Snap, Heidie Swapp Gold glittery stickers and Ranger Die cut (viewfinder). and Jillibean Studios (arrow). I would love to hear how you use Social Media Postings to inspire you into capturing a meaningful or funny memory...

Trying to balance it all and finding my scrappy mojo.

2015-04-05T07:37:00.001-07:00

I know I know.... I havent blogged in forever. Getting used to being a full time Dental Assistant after being a full time mom forever has been so challenging, and my kids are grown!!! Finding time for me to do what I should, and what I love has been so hard to balance. Hats off to moms who can do it all. So here are some of my recent favorite scrapbook pages.. Ive really been trying to use my old stash up by putting kits together from my stash. Its really helped me as far as the spending half my time searching for things. Now most of what I need are together in 12x12 envelopes..

Love This Layout...

The "Love this" was created for one of the PaperIssues crop challenge. most products are thegirlspaperie papers, and the arrows are actually old stampin up corner stickers, October afternoon journal cards, tim holtz die, and Heidie Swap Epoxy.

Grand Parents. I used Paper studio papers, thickers bulap chipboard,colorbox chalk ink. and Heidi Swap.

Let the sunshine in with a SMILE. Old Graphic 45 papers.and lots of textures.

Duck Feeding is so much FUN. Lots of background work on this one.

The following page was created for a challenge on Paperissues.com online crop. I used some old autumn leaves paper, Graphic 45 paper, old basic gray stickers. paper studio florals, and banner, some old bling I altered with copics markers. a lil bit of gesso for journal spot. bits of dyed cheesecloth and bling. This pic was me and my dear hubby in the Ft Hood Dental Birthday Ball.

There are no age limits to dreams!

2012-11-11T09:43:00.001-08:00

Back in May I was accepted into the Red Cross Dental Assisting Program on post. Classes started beginning of September. At first I thought, what did I get myself into.. Basically a years worth of education crammed into 6 weeks of class. Currently I am learning the hands on part of Dental Assistant training program on a military post. I love it. I love the challenge of taking a patient that has huge dental fears and calming them with my chatty personality. I still have so much to learn, but I am loving every minute of it. I have helped assist with restorations and Oral Surgery=(extractions).. I am finally working towards completion of a dream that I had left behind as a young woman in high school. I am 48 years old. I hope to set the example that its never too late to achieve a dream.. even if its been filed on the back shelf covered with dust.

If you still dream of it. Dust that dream off and give it a polish and let it shine... There are no age limits to dreams..

REACHING THE GOLD STATUS

2012-08-19T16:37:00.000-07:00

Rare in this day and age that couples make it to 50 years in marriage. I am blessed to come from a home where my parents have reached 50 years in marriage.. August 4th, 1962...

The dress made by Grandmother Ruth

The Invites

My mother Janet, was so excited and nervous preparing for this party. She was like a new bride.. She never had a real wedding, not even a wedding pic or even a cake and no real honeymoon. Her parents didn't even go..Grand daddy was busy doing farm work and Grandmother staying home as well. She did sew mom a beautiful wedding dress for the occasion. 50 years later was moms chance to re-live what she missed out on the first time. Dad was the typical man from his era.. he just went with the flow and tried to stay out of the way as much as possible. In helping mom prepare for things I realized how rare it is to find things for 50th wedding anniversary party... In collaboration with our dear friend Marcia Jenkins many talents of decorating for parties, I helped make favors, announcements, and thank you notes. My son Collin made the slide show with music from the era, and Karen my sister cooked up a bunch of delicious goodies for the after party. My brother in law Bob was the photographer... It all pulled together smoothly considering that I live in Texas, My Siblings live in Indiana and my parents live in Ky... Its not easy pulling a party together when we are all so far apart. Mom did quite a bit herself. She was concerned about space at her house with all the out of town guests and getting ready, trying to share the bathrooms. She and Marcia found an amazing Bed and Breakfast at Hillbilly Ridge in Wickliffe Ky. This place is phenomenal and so hospitable. Definitely a place to go to.. here is a link to their facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Hillbilly-Ridge-Bed-n-Breakfast/479404845419978?sk=phot

THE KISS

(These are the invitations I made for my parents 50th
wedding anniversary... The Pics are printed on vellum
and overlay on top of the announcement, backed with
golden yellow card stock and matted with Gold Foil
poster board paper found at hobby lobby in the art section
I used the Slice cutter to cut the 50 in gold and Prima
flowers for accent. )

treat box favor

These are some of the
party favors I made. I already had
a bunch of these little boxes I bought
at the dollar tree. However they were
silver and white. I took the gold spray
paint to these to change the color. I also
created a layered flower from a circular s
scallop punch, brad, watered down ink
in a spray bottle, (spritzed, scrunched and
eventually glittered) I added the flower to
the tulle bow and added a tag on gold foil
board with gold embossed words over their
picture. I used glue gun to pop the 50 in the
center of the flower and glue gunned the flower
to the tulle.

easy peasy magnets

These Magnets are super inexpensive and
easy fast party favor to make.
Materials: Dozens of sheets of thumb
nail prints of photos, thick heavy duty
magnet, E6000 glue, scissors.
Larger size clear flat floral marbles-
*which can be found at hobby lobby*.
(make sure the back side of glass isn't too
bubbled or marred). put a small dab of E6000 on back
of marble and press down over picture being careful to center the picture. press firm to get air bubbles out and let dry. trim excess paper off and glue the magnet to the
back of the marble.. I usually glue all the marbles on the whole page and then cut them off..great way to assembly line them.

Next, I had to have a place to put the extra marbles. which led me to making this magnetic board from Dollar tree cookie sheets. I used crackle medium and painted the cookie sheet. After dry time, I carefully stroked over it with off white acrylic paint. I then Stenciled the words on and hand painted the roses. I aged it with rub and buff gold paint and a little ink on a sponge. I used the crop-a-dile big bite to punch the holes in the tin to hang it from ribbon. I didn't seal this but you probably should seal it with spray sealer of some sort before putting the ribbon on.

Saying Thanks to all

Below are the thank you notes made to pass out to the guests. I printed this and then inked the edges in golden yellow. i added Prima flowers and used t-shirt pearl paint to embellish the flowers. I happened to find confetti in gold 50's and glued them along with the ribbon at the top.

Janet and Tom Steele

Mom and Dads first Wedding cake!

JACK AND MARCIA JENKINS
TOM AND JANET STEELE

Memory Table

Cutting the cake

table of memories

The Center Pieces

We would have had great difficulty if it weren't for Marcia and Jack Jenkins. Marcia's eye for pulling things together is amazing. She gathered moms hydrangeas and dried and gilded them in gold using moms hobnail milk glass and family pics she made it a fairytale dream come true for my mom.

cutting the cake

sharing the cake

Pics of Hillbilly Ridge Bed n Breakfast!

THE GRANDKIDS

KIDS AND GRANDKIDS

XOXOX

Bundle Up for a play date with SNOW PLaY by Pink Paislee!

2011-11-01T17:09:00.000-07:00

Bundle Up for a Chilly Christmas Parade!!!

This Layout is proof that even a Texas Gal has reason to play with the Pink Paislee Snow Day collection..

This was my grandson Kason at 19 months. His Mommy made his elf costume for the Christmas parade for daughters friends business called Horse Play..

Pink Paislee Snow Day Products: Pattern Papers, dimensional stickers, die cuts, wood die cuts.
other products; we r memory keepers twin, tattered angels misting spray, folk art red paint for hat. tulip puff paint for hat, Eyelets stampin up, K& co epoxy alphas, Making Memories alphas, Ek success alphas. glitter and rhinestone brads- stampin up. ek success edge punch.

close up of the Pink Paislee dimensional sticker and die cuts.

Although Kason got to sit on the horses for a bit.. he actually rode in a wooden wagon pulled by his mommy during the parade. It was cold that night and the poor lil guy fell asleep. By the time he passed where we stood at the sidelines..I didnt see him. Holly said he was sleeping.. His first parade and he missed most of it.

close up of the Pink Paislee wood snowflake diecut and hat on a medallion

Love Pink Paislee Snow Day??? want a chance to win some? check out
Don't forget to check out some of the Paper Issues Design team ideas..
Paper issues.blogspot.com

Thank You so much for stopping by my blog!

Toil and Trouble Wicked Laundry Service...in honor of Paper issues 31 days of Halloween!

2011-10-30T11:56:00.000-07:00

Whew this has been a super busy month, full of festivities. If that didn't keep us busy enough we moved this month.. finally feeling like I can get caught up I worked on a project that has been on my mind... After seeing Jess Mutty's frame creation she made for Pink Paislee, I was inspired by this old frame I found in our flip house. I crackle painted it a year ago..then what... It wasn't til I saw Jess's idea with her frame and then Cassie posted these fabulous mini clothes pins at the Paper Issues Etsy, did the idea come together!

I kept thinking about Witchy Poo from H.R. Puff n Stuff... Many of you are too young to remember it...But it was a cool show from the 70's... I kept thinking about what laundry day would look like... Then I saw the big moon image from the

Echo Park Apothecary line... and I knew exactly how this project would go!

I thought hard about what I wanted the picture hanging to say...Then it came to me...Toil and Trouble Wicked Laundry service! Most of the items are Echo Park, canvas Core clothespins, Making Memories bat chipboard, and a few Doodlebug alphas. the roses are created from old dictionary paper, and rolled roses with scallop lace and canvas strips.. a few silk flowers and Prima flowers. I hope you will feel inspired to grab an old frame and create something fantastic with it...

Thank you for stopping by and remember the kiddos as they walk through the street on Halloween..Have a safe, fun and creative Halloween!!!

My first attempt at making a banner!

2011-10-30T10:00:00.000-07:00

This is the first banner I have ever tried.. I used a combination of the cricut chic and scary and happy haunting along with a few sizzix die cut acetate ghosts. Various stickers were used along with scraps of various pattern papers.

googley eyes on the far left and right... (they make me smile)

Once I get the hang of using my cricut, I can see the fun of making these little cuties... thanks for looking. Happy Halloween!

Upcycled Vanilla bottles for Halloween decor!

2011-10-30T09:48:00.000-07:00

After baking, I almost threw these out...then a spell came over me and suddenly I was saving these little bottles for Halloween decor! I wish now I had saved more. Imagine a display of potions and poisons for that perfect touch of spooky decor.

To give the bottles a little tint, I added a few drops of Ranger Alcohol inks. Add a spider of any kind for a bit of creepiness. I used Pink Paislee Phantom stamps and papers. We are Memory keepers twine, and smudged a little bit of black paint. I also added Ranger crackle accents to the skull image.

the skull and cross bones on the left are from the cricut chic and scary.

Halloween is not the only reason to save these little gems..Think of Valentines day..Love potion.. and the cap is already red! just a few drops of Ranger alcohol inks and maybe a heart tag... how cute would that be?

Now go raid your pantry and see what you can make with these empty bottles. think about the pretty glass spice jars too!

Pink Paislee Phantom Fun!!!

2011-10-12T16:49:00.000-07:00

I frequent the acherryontop.com message board..I was thrilled to find out that they wanted me to be their October Guest Design Team member...

In my mailbox arrive some of the most fantastic Halloween themed papers by Pink Paislee called Phantom.. I was excited to incorporate the stamps that I got from Paper Issues Etsy store..the Pink Paislee Phantom Stamps.. I seriously used every scrap of paper they sent me to include the packaging with the fancy edging..

If you get a chance to try these products, I think you will be very pleased.. The Cardstock stickers have some aging on them, and the epoxy brads are gorgeous and match the paper perfectly. The black brads remind me of vintage coat buttons. The Paper has a raised epoxy like design that takes to inking, misting without compromising the quality of print. So far I have seen no warping so this paper can take some inkwork for sure. The acetate frames are a must have...they work great over the pics, journaling and to tuck in here and there along a page. The stamps by Pink Paislee Phantom are some of the best detailed Halloween stamps Ive ever worked with.. The chipboard alphbets are fabulous and much more sticky than other chipboard stickers Ive used in the past.

I made layouts and a mini album with the 6x6 Pink Paislee Phantom Paper pack

Wicked FUN...

In this layout I put some hidden journaling. On the acetate I colored the back of the cameo images with permanent marker and added some Ranger glossy accents over the top of the acetate transparency frame.. I inked over the chipboard and added Ranger Glossy accents. The cameo at the bottom is stamped and more Ranger product added. the top banner has some clear embossed stamping using Pink Paislee Phantom stamps, and some tattered angels misting.

I ran out of the letter C and K so I traced over the scrap phantom line, inked and stamped over it.. added more Glossy accents. note, the twine is the spider web line.

Stampin on the side with Phantom stamps, coloring with markers and blender pen. Embossing with marcasite emboss powders.

Beware sign is Pink Paislee stamp. flowers are from flower punches and a dot of t SHIRT PEARL PAINT.

the cutest lil Scarecrow

I used the packaging corregated cardboard for the back ground and ripped chunks out. painted it a metalic green, then dry brushed white paint.. and misted it with tattered angels. the metal frame is basic grey,

notice the niche I created by tearing out the corregation. perfect for the cameo accent.

I stamped this with Pink Paislee phantom.. I colored the image and I added Ranger Crackle accents..notice it bled a little..I really liked that look for this..it gives it a eerie look..

Halloween Pink Paislee Marbles.. this is what you do with the smaller stamps...

this is a close up of the Pirate Pumpkin page above... the chipboard alphabets
are inked with a sponge.. with two tones of green and orange.. Pink Paislee Mistables scallop
and the cameo is a stamp.. I simply stamped image on cardstock.. added a eyelet at the top and some tulip tshirt pearl paint and Glossy accents over the top of the image.. The stitching is hand stitched embroidery (daisy chain)..

I want to thank you for stopping by during this spooky season. I hope I inspire you to try
some of these projects as well as the products..

Make a Memory Wreath for Halloween.

2011-10-07T14:45:00.000-07:00

Since I'm in the middle of a move I thought I would share a project with you that I made last fall.

While shopping in our Tuesday Morning I found this kit by Making Memories that came complete with a floral fall wreath. Within the kit it had just a few little Halloween frames that you could put pictures in..I thought, why not print out my scrapbook pages of Halloween over the years and attatch them..Each little square holds a memories of the even as well as a mini document of my scrapbook pages..
You can add other fall embellishments with this project...

after printing out the smaller 3x3 images of my Halloween scrapbook pages, I first mounted the pic to cardstock then I mounted them on thicker chipboard that comes in our packaging for scrap papers.. I secured each layer with Mod Podge.. I wouldnt place this on an exterior door..its great over a mirror or interior door.

You can probably find these sprays in garland form at your local hobby store. just form them in a circle over a wire wreath form and fluff it.

Here are some ideas you can try.. For christmas.. get a berry garland spray and print out your christmas photos..or how about all those photo christmas cards friends send you? You can cut up you Christmas cards for this and do the same thing. For Valentines...mini pages of the one you love all over a wreath. Basically if you can find a garland form for the any specific Holiday you can create a mini scrapbook Memory wreath with it.. Thank you for looking at my blog and I hope you will want to try this. Happy Fall Ya'll...

ITs a SPOOKtacular time of the year!

2011-10-04T15:18:00.000-07:00

In keeping with Paper Issues theme I thought I would post some of my favorite Halloween Pages... I like to mix things up when I scrapbook. One of the ways I keep things blended without looking too matchy-matchy is to store remnants of embellishments in old VHS plastic cases..that way If I'm not doing a specific challenge, I can pull out my embellie cases labeled...according to either color or theme or color combo... (when I clean up my desk after many scrap projects later I put the scattered misplaced embellies that didn't get put back with the rest into the VHS case labeled to fit.) The old VHS tapes make for a quick grab when you are on the way to a crop... You will always have a good mix of ribbon scraps, eyelets, bling, buttons, sticker, chipboard.etc. Well that's my tip for the day! I hope it will work for you. Meanwhile enjoy some spooky and not so spooky Halloween pages.

some of the images below are a bit blurry..I do apologise for that!

My daughter and her friend. I have an old assortment of scrap lace
cut from a old shirt.. the scallop is made from large round sequins.

Mija, Our beloved Chihuahua, We miss her so much..She toleranted
many seasons of Halloween costumes..she would even pose for us on
pumkins, haybales..where ever we placed her. She was such a good
sport. even when Erica my daughter would put make up on her...

I hope this inspired you to get scrappy this coming October! Please

stop by Paper Issues and be inspired by some amazing crafty gals.

Oh! I almost forgot!!!

check out Paper Issues, we have brand new PINK PAISLEE :SNOW DAY

in the paper shop...Use the code HAPPY20 to get 20% off..

there is still time to win 1 of 6 Halloween Mini Kits at Paper Issues. The winner will be announced Oct 7...

In addition to all this Halloween News I want to say Happy Birthday to Paper Issues...As of October 1 Paper Issues turned 1!!! You can use the code Happy20 in the paper shop for 20% discount to celebrate with us during the birthday bash!

Thank You again for stopping by my blog... and have a SPOOKTaCUlar Day!

Link 4 Pink Party!!!

2011-10-03T11:23:00.000-07:00

Its breast cancer awareness month and my good friend Celeste invited me to link up for PINK! You can check out her blog here for further details!

This is my first ever Toilet Paper Tube mini album... I saw many ideas online on how to do this..Ive been saving them for other projects but when I saw this, I knew I had to try this..

I used my cricut for the beautiful title.. a rhinestone glitzy dragonfly
sticker, creative imaginations, stampin up flower stamp(layered and beaded)
Heidie grace chipboard, Tshirt pearl paint.

at this angle you can see why flattened toilet paper tubes
make great pockets for mini albums.

stampin up cardstock stickers, Bo Bunny, Martha punch,
Heidie Grace chipboard hearts,

More Bo Bunny, Stampin up sticker, Heidie Grace Chipboard

Stampin Up Cardstock sticker, bo Bunny paper, Heidie
grace chipboard.

velum quote, stayzon black ink, recycled actate for tag,
sizzix tag die cut, Maya road ribbon rose and twine,

note: I took the pics in early morning light..some came out true to color, some did not...

For instructions on how to make the toilet paper tube mini album you can view you tube..There are many great artists out there showing these ideas...
too many to list..

the basic idea is you flatten the tubes out with a bone folder. paint it..then punch holes for the rings or ribbon making sure they are even and lined up..then you can add your own paper yumminess.

31 days of Halloween!!!

2011-10-01T10:16:00.000-07:00

Hi Ya'll, there is a chill in the air..Yes! even in Texas... we go from brutal heat to a wonderful crisp temps. Paper Issues has done it again with soooo many creative ideas to inspire you for the fall season!

I have so many projects to show you. I only hope I can get around to getting them all done and show you. Here is a simple idea that I hope you will try... Its so easy to do with the kiddos too!.

Materials: Large flat glass marbles, markers, stamps, scrap papers. E6000 glue or tacky glue. Mod Podge and thick round magnets..

stamp, doodle, or draw image on cardstock. Color it.. Cover the flat side of the marble, (back side) with Modpodge. Next adhere marble over image and let dry. Once dry, trim around the marble neatly.. glue the thick magnet to the back and VOila!!! You can make dozens of these in less than an hour..

These were made with the Pink Paisley Phantom stamps.

The pumpkin faces were with Stampin Up stamps and some were
hand drawn

Thank You for stopping by and looking at some of my not

so spooky creations...

Don't forget to stop by Paper Issues and check out all the Spooky Fun inspiration.

The Last day of Summer is here! (pics of house flip project)

2011-09-22T14:50:00.000-07:00

I don't have anything new to show you today.. The next couple of weeks I have a lot going on. I will try to squeeze in a wreath I'm making out of a paper punch, ink, glitter and foam.. I'm almost done with that puppy. I also have some Super Awesome Pink Paisley I have been playing with that I cant wait to show you. Perfect for the Fallidays!

The next few weeks I will be pulling my hair out decided what to pack and what to leave.. As I have mentioned before, My hubby and I flip houses on the side as more of a hobby. Not ready to sell our baby we have been working on til the market is ready. Wellllll, we bought 3 houses on our street. Ours, our flip and our flip for rent. Now hubby wants us to move into the flip house. Cabinets are going in next week!. Its smaller by 2 bedrooms, and some of the spaces are smaller. Perfect for first time buyers.. I have to say ITS Gorgeous! I will post a pic of absolutely how awful it was. I will show you the pic when I get some updated ones of the after. So we will be jamming into the smaller house for a year at least so we can gut and remodel ours the way we really wanted. Moving walls makes such a difference in layout. I dread this so much. On one hand I'm excited because real progress is upon us..On the other hand, I'm impatient.. I hate waiting for the project to be done. I like the fun stuff. painting, drywalling, things like that. not the gross part that goes with flips. I cant move my scrappy room..no room for any of it down there. so I will be running back and forth between the two houses. I'm not sure how that's going to work.. we will be keeping electric on here. but my Internet at the other place.. I will feel like I'm living in two places..I guess the good part of it is I can get away if I need to. On top of everything else, my last child of 7 started high school. He is in the band program and JROTC as well. So between that and games and Uil marching championships.. gonna be crazy for a few weeks..Oh yea, forgot..I have a class or two to teach.. . Oct 1st my sons band hosts a marching UIL band contest called C.T.M.C. (central texas marching band championship). Since we host. All us parents who actually volunteer will be basically running around like crazy trying to take care of all the buses, band directors, bands, judges, water booths. tickets... (any volunteers?) just kidding.. So if you dont see much from me in the next few weeks..Im gone, but still around.. I will try to peek in and give you an update on things.

meanwhile here are some pics of our flip house... (older neighborhood house that just needed love) I cant wait to show you pics of the inside..

what it looks like now, except the door color.

this house was condemned and looked this
way for 5 years. driving past this each day was not pleasant.

This is the front of the house and it looked this way for 5 years before the city condemned it and was ready to tear it down. We thought it could be saved. People thought we were crazy. (front view now to the left)

The Back of the house. Garage is buried by yard debrie that the city
bulldozed up against the house..the left back bedroom roof was collapsed.

Garage door falling off, packed with garbage...Overgrown brush

view of bedroom after gutting

Gutting the walls, Knocking walls out, moving studs, spraying foam insulation in.. IT WAS disGusting... after basically replacing everything... The house began to have hope again..It began to know what it felt like to be loved... It had to be cut and torn in order to do so.. but isnt that like it is with any growth in life? You have to endure the tough, hard things in life to grow in spirit to get to a better level in life...

Chip was so excited to not only get the insulation in so the ac
worked better, but to see the first piece of drywall go up really
started making it feel closer to becoming a home.

blown in foam insulation..cuts electric bill in half as well as reduction
of outdoor noise..imagine being in an igloo cooler..

living room from side view. we moved walls and added a side entry
door.

Originally the ceiling had 2x4 studs across..They werent done right
we raised the ceiling and added a big beam for support. chip created a
nook as well as an easy access to the attic instead of how they are typically
in the closet for access. where the window is in the dining room was a door
previously. notice the wood floor.. we almost laminated the floor.. I cant wait to show
you the floors..they are gorgeous!!!

see where the wood is missing on the floor. a galley
style kitchen stood in that little spot.. the living room was less than half
the size it is now. where you see the back left wall,
we moved that wall.

master bedroom. before we painted the new
doors..Love the closet doors.

view from dining room into living room.
check out the nook above. its also a attic crawl space.

I love this color on the wall. at night it is very rich and cozy.. day time
the color is lighter. The natural light in this house is amazing now.

to the right past the studs was the small galley kitchen. To the left
was the dining room. far back wall was like a den.. the kitchen had 4
entrances??? not a good use of space...

before we moved the wall and made the living room bigger. your
looking into what was the kitchen and bathroom area

I couldnt wait to see the door replaced.. YUCK...

Randy Sammons and Michael helped alot...

Add caption

this was basically after we removed tons and tons of debrie. your
view here is from the tiny living room into where the kitchen once was
as well as a little office area and back door. the layout didnt make sense.
the dining room and kitchen were too small.

Bless his heart...after getting the insulation and first few sheets
of drywall he could see a house starting to take shape.

This is the back of the house after we re-roofed with dimensional shingles
and tore the back bedroom off and poured a curved patio. The new back
door wasnt in place yet, nor was the kitchen window or new wall siding.
off to the far right is the semi attatched garage.

Dimensional shingles... nice!!!

We are Roofers too... (not preferably)... Im afraid of heights
and I was up there helping using POWER tools. Love the nail gun.!!!

Its a Hop!!! at Paper Issues Blog Hop!!!. Love Recycled? Check out this Altered Shabby Window

2011-09-16T19:47:00.000-07:00

Drum roll please!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Announcing the winner to my first blog hop...

Its Celeste!!!
Thanks so much for participating in the Paper Issues Blog Hop and Hopping into my Blog with some love. Congratulations!!! I sent you an email to get your address so I can send you goodies to you this week!!!

In case you were wondering here is the list on Paper Issues of all the winners:
click HERE!

Ladies I want to thank you for coming to my blog and participating in the Super fun and creative Paper Issues Blog Hop!!! The blog hop is officially closed on my page and I will announce the winner here in just a few short hours!!! Its been so much fun...I still am trying to catch up and view all your blogs and follow you as well. When I announce the winner I will need to get your info so I can mail you this prize package lickity split...

Welcome!!!

Its time to Hop at the Paper Issues Blog Hop! I am so excited to be a part of Paper Issues blog hop. Its the first time I have ever done anything like this, and I get to do it with such a creative group of gals..There are so many great projects for you to be inspired by and enjoy at the Paper Issues blog hop. Also don't forget all the great prizes you can win! You should have hopped here from Shellye McDaniel and your next hop should be Peg Hewitt's: see link below after you have scrolled down. Since the theme this month is "Tree Hugger", I thought how fun would it be to use a re-claimed, re-purposed , recycled item. My Project is an "Altered Window Project" for you to enjoy and perhaps create for yourself!.

Here is the blog hop prize for my blog:
cute Stampin Up papers, Making Memories alphabet stickers, 3 strips of friendly plastic, 2 sheets of thank you rub ons, Cloud chipboard alphabet, Heidi Swapp Flower, 2 wooden items to alter. 2 full rolls of American Craft Ribbon. 1 yard of American Craft Happy Birthday ribbon, Making Memories purple frame, thank you confetti, ribbon tape, Die cuts with a view adhesive ribbon, Thank U Mini booklet/card. 3 sprays of pearl/tulle, (pink, purple, black)

To qualify for this Fun Spread of Goodies, you must leave a comment about the altered window project, and become a follower of this blog..I will draw a name from a hat of all those that participate on my blog and announce the winner Monday!

For the hop I chose to do a recycled window project. I love things that are shabby, vintage and re-purposed.

My neighbor replaced all his windows and was about to throw these out..Then I stopped him...and begged him to let me have them. My sweet husband put the wood box on with old fence panels. We added two towel hooks. I plan to add a towel bar at the bottom of the window at a later date. We are about to move so I will wait til then to get it all mounted against a pretty background paint color.

I knew I wanted to make scrapbook pages to fit inside the window of our times in Galveston Island. I think it will go great with a beachy/cottage theme don't you?

This is the front view.

There is a missing window pane. I don't know If I will put something there. I will have to wait and see how it looks when I hang it in the new place. I've been thinking to add maybe a narrow shadowbox within the missing pane, or perhaps a shelf...Hubby suggested a mirror..I guess I will have to wait and see 'til we get moved!

To create this look you will need:

shabby old window, old fence panels, wood screws, towel hooks, Shells, glue gun, Fish netting, wide brush, acrylic paint dry brushed on.. chipboard alphabets. sand paper. I simply dry brushed a little white paint, soft teal paint, a little brown paint and gave it a good sanding on the edges. Just add embellishment and scrapbook pages and hardware and your done!!!

I wish the lighting were better!!!

close up of the wooden fence panel window box, side view and of the chipboard Sea Letters.

For Close ups of the scrapbook pages in the Shabby Window click Here and here..

Visit the Paper Issues Etsy store and get 25% off! Just use the code HOP25.

To see all of the Paper Issues Creative Team projects in all the categories go to the Paper Issues blog.

I'm so glad you stopped by - now hop on to Peg Hewitts blog!!!

Paper Issues will be at Sketch Inspirations sponsoring the Sept 12th sketch!!!

2011-09-11T13:09:00.000-07:00

Whew!!! Its been HOT!!! Living in Texas with 3 digit temps for over 60+ days makes a person long for living in the arctic.. The last couple of days the temps dropped into the 80s... what a difference it can make.
The cooler temps had me inspired to think of fall and the autumnal colors that we (don't have) and wish we did. The most fall like color is in my decorations and food at Thanksgiving. This is a fantastic Sketch from Sketch Inspirations...If you havent scrapped in a while this sketch is sure to get your mojo in the flow!!!! Make sure you stop by http://sketchinspiration.ning.com/ for Sept 12 and see how others have fun with this!!!

I am so excited to have an opportunity as a Design Team Member for paperissues.blogspot.com to play along with the Sept. Sketch for Sketch Inspirations!!! Having so many Thanksgiving photos,I had to tweak it a bit . Most of the products include, Bo Bunny "gift of love line", Prima flourish, Making Memories slice tag maker, Ek success and my own handmade dimensional flowers.

Our family like any others is not perfect. Sometimes we laugh, sometimes we cry, sometimes we hurt each other and say things we shouldn't or do things we shouldn't. Sometimes we feel that we don't like each other at times but know deep down we do love each other and would give our last bit of food to help each other. There are even times that we don't want to talk to each other. We are flawed, talented, ambitious, sensitive, loving, creative, full of laughter and full of jokes. Some how through it all we can come together unite in laughter and share food, play games and heal wounds,and build memories, one laugh one hug, and one word of encouragement

This is another version of the sketch.. Its about my journey to better health. After weight over 300lbs and losing nearly a hundred I have learned alot about myself. Yes some of the weight crept back on but know I believe in myself. I know its not easy. I dont need easy. I just need possible. Thats my favorite quote from the movie soul surfer. It applies to all challenges we face in life.

Supplies for the layout below:

Paper: Bo Bunny;gift of love, old we are memory keepers, fussy cut, (goal)

stickers: Making Memories market street, Ki-Memories epoxy, thickers

embellishments: Prima flowers and swirl bling, prima butterfly, all my memories charm, Making Memories suede frame, Kaiser craft pearls,

Handmade flowers. dryer sheet flower- stampin up ink, stickles. dimensional paper flower= round scallop punch, stickles, and stampin up ink. wire ribbon flower-offray.

Primas September sketch..

2011-09-09T13:24:00.000-07:00

Do you Hoard your beautiful Prima Papers, flowers and bits??? Is it more for collective reasons or more because you love it and fear cutting into it? Well, thats me... I'm happy to say I cut through my fears and played with Primas Sept sketch. It was the motivation I needed to get in there and use more than just a flower. Stop by and check out the inspiration there..prima.typepad.com. Im just a wee follower, or Prima stalker- lol however you look at it.. It appeals to the part of me that loves vintage.. Here is the sketch below along with what I created...I hope you will try this...

I am happy you took the time to stop by. Dont forget to check out all the wonderful talent at Prima.typepad.com

The Learning Curve

2011-09-02T17:59:00.000-07:00

Hi Ya'll...
At Paper Issues our theme this month is : The Learning Curve..
A few weeks ago I was at the dollar tree store. I found these little wooden shadow boxes, (aproximately 9x9)- unpainted. I wasnt sure what I would do with them until today. I dug through my stash of oldies but goodies Using some pebbles inc stickers, stemma apoxy stickers. gave it a bright red base paint then stained it a bit with brown ink. I ended up making the chalk by rolling white paper tightly. I also made the little books on the shelves.. Most of the papers are scraps left over. I love to go through my old stash and use what I have..I find that sometimes I get the best ideas that way. (I just adore these little books I made) I never got into the doll house hobby but I can see how it would be addictive.. The ribbons are just ribbon scraps left over.. I did use some Mod Podge and ruler ribbon and fabric around the frame. Wouldnt this be a great teacher gift? Thanks for stopping by today..Don't forget to head over to Paper Issues and see what the Design team has been doing!!!

You're Flying High!!!

2011-09-02T10:20:00.000-07:00

Hey Ya'll!!!

Its back to school time again! You can take a breath for just a second... You've done your school shopping and routines are set in place for the year.. Paper Issues theme for this month is: The Learning Curve. Think about back to school, sports, drill team..or you can apply it to yourself, how you have grown and changed..Life lessons over the years. This theme has so many possibilities.
As a designr for Paper Issues are here to inspire you to tackle those back to school pics, and even show you how to make a few cute teacher gifts as well.

If your like me...your so busy running your kids around from practice to rehearsal and all your other duties, You probably have tons of back to school themed pics and no time to get them done. Here is one way you can get many pics on one page and still have plenty of room for decorating and journaling!

Most of the layout is Echo Park Happy Days.... Even though it had a 50's retro feel, I think it worked well with the pics...

Note: the close up to the right, I added some stickles and some
brads to the rose sticker.

I hope you have enjoyed this and maybe find the time to
tackle those Band, Football, cheer, soccer, school pics..
Don't forget to stop by Paperissues.blogspot.com and check
out what all the wonderful designers have in store for you.

More to come later this week!!!
See you later:)
Lana

Easy Peasy Dimensional flowers!!!

2011-08-30T20:38:00.000-07:00

This is so simple you can make dozens in less than an hour!!! You only need limited supplies! I first want to give credit where I saw this..I saw Erika H. on club ck blog.. She posted it in the tips and tricks section. I fell in love immediately and had to try. Since then I have played with many other techniques..

(You will notice that some of the flowers have wording on them..I used old dictionary pages)... I also used various punches..some that looked like a sunburst..If you have a shape cutting machine you can probably cut any circular shape you desire. I have the original sizzix with several big flower shapes I have yet to try.. So many possibilities to try!!!

1st you need paper...it can me solid or pattern. If you use pattern that has a white back then you might want to color it with paint, ink or misting, watercolors, chalk..whatever you have to color with.

Next: you need to cut the shape..I happen to have a round scallop punch about 1-1/2 in across. If you only have circles thats fine.. you can take scallop scissors or just tear circles. The torn look will be irregular and will lend a softer look to the flower. Next mist them and dampen them slightly. Crumple them a little. Let dry.

Now we are going to gather a stack of four, punch a hole in the center and use a old brad that wont be seen. Fasten them together then draw the petals upward curling, crunching and pleating. Do each layer...Then fluff it out.. I like to add glitter glue to the edges with paint brush.. Let dry... and enjoy using them on scrapbook pages, cards and more..

Thank You for Stopping by,

Lana:)

This layout was created for entry for Doodlebug Design team! (note: The darker dimensional flowers were cut from Doodlbug paper). See How easy it is too coordinate your papers and flowers now?

Using some of my older Doodlebug stash in the two birthday layouts.