So, there's news of Gossamer Blue releasing the official May Scrapbook Kit and inside, is a plethora of color choices amid manufacturers like Jillibean Soup, Pink Paislee, Simple Stories, Fancy Pants and so forth. I was lucky enough to spend last weekend working on the kit with a group of other scrap-happy individuals at the local Archivers and at home, in my cozy studio/office. I crafted a layout and card from the kit and it's add-ons, and the two look entirely different..just goes to show how convenient a kit can be! 

Speaking of which, if ever looking to take a "kit" a new direction, the key is "cardstock". The paper comes in a wealth of colors, and it only takes one or two sheets to change the feel of a kit. For example, I introduced "violet" into this month's Gossamer Blue kit when creating the card. This one minor addition made a HUGE impact; cool, calm and quaint. 

The cute bags in the background are a new embellishment product from Fancy Pants. Even though I'm not an avid user of bags per say, these are just the right size for everyday scrapbookers and card makers like myself. Sold as a variety pack, they're a fun bunch! Love the fish scale navy blue bag seen above :)

And not because I'm  an enabler in any way shape or form, but Fancy Pants put out a mid-release that captures my "fancy"; What a Wonderful Day &  Memories Captured. Love the direction they're going!! 

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The layout reflects more of Gossamer Blue's May Kit than the card does, and I even chose a theme that matches really well with it's offerings, too. A month or two ago, Ethan spent an afternoon at an indoor park sales floor, a kids party destination available for rent here in the Twin Cities. It had been his cousin's birthday, so there were lots of little kids running around and having fun, Ethan included. I brought along my D60, a brave act on my part considering the chaos. Thankfully, the photos made it all worth it! 

There are two secret tools in my scrapbook stash that I use all the time; Architect Stencils & pens. You can buy them any where art supplies are sold, or at the big box office stores. Here's a peek at one (Office Max)...

They're great for tracing circles on projects "as is", or for cutting circles of varying sizes. Sure, punches are usually enough, but sometimes, you need that odd sized circle. This tool is your problem solver!! Cheap, handy and readily available. Lots of potential, too! 

 

I'm a sucker for acrylic mists. Sometimes, one color isn't enough for the job. Then again, two contrasting colors can be too much. The next best thing is two tones of one color. I opted for emerald and mint green - both from my mist stash. The final result - "Tones = Friendliness + Good Design"

And that brings me to the next topic...

I love mists, but believe it or not, there's an alternative that is far better; Daler Rowney Liquid Acrylic. Available at your local art supply store, high quality liquid acrylic paint is of pure pigmentation. Available in a host of colors, the product is sold via a small glass jar (opaque or pearlescent) at $4 - $5 each. Last weekend, I purchased Pearlescent Autumn Gold. Against standard mist, the gold has greater saturation and dries quickly. Also, it has many applications (Ex: small round paint brush = awesome splatter!). There are a number of online videos demonstrating ways in which to use it - Dick Blick Art Supplies included. I highly recommend the paint - you will LOVE it!

There was a point, just as arrows were making their debut, that I wasn't crazy about them. I could easily manage direction with other things far prettier. Laugh. This layout taught me otherwise. Arrows are the ideal "direction" indicator in that North, South, West, etc., doesn't require a map, or much thought for that matter. Follow the arrow and be on your way...no puzzle to solve.

Ever since Hambly leveled the scrapbook scene with their transparecies, I can't get enough of the material. So, when Basic Grey started included transparency die-cuts in their die-cut packs, I was sold. I collect them like candy, save them in glass dishes and layer with them all-the-time. 

More transparency nummy-ness. :)

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Time for me to call it a night! I know I'm still not up to par in post numbers, but I hope any info shared today more than makes up for it! Thanks for checking in! Appreciate it :) Night!

 

Crate Paper's Spring Mid-Release, The Pier, is expected to reach store shelves in the very near future. Yesterday, sitting on my front porch, was an American Crafts box. I knew immediately the surprise that was awaiting me. I pulled the papers and embellishments out from the box and jumped for joy!! Since I first laid eyes on the collection, I haven't been able to stop thinking about it. And guess what, it is so much better in person!! I know that some folks were concerned it was "too" muted given the Crate Paper title..but, don't let your computer fool you, folks, 'cause there is zero color shortage here. If you're a big retro fan, love color and feel like digging into a pile of vintage slide frames, this collection is a must-own. 

Crate Paper :: The Pier {Introduction}

Here are some real life images of the new goods...

A staple amongst every Crate Collection, CUTE die-cuts - the pink/gold polka-dot frame is top on my technique exploration list. And that pink/red striped tag - hang on to your pants! 

 

I wasn't expecting such a high volume of slide frames in just one package - small, medium and large {plenty to go around}. 

 

Who would of ever thought that Crate Paper would come up with this idea? Plastic lettering like those used at local events and gas stations. This alone is why I love design so very, very much. They're heavily weighted, too, and made from serious plastic.

 

Since Crate's inception into the American Crafts family, one of the major perks has been Thickers!! The Pier welcomes a Kraft Gold Polka-Dot Script Thicker - a neutral variety fit for any project!

 

Par for the course, 3-D embellishments with gold sprinkles and adorable striping. They make a quick addition to a card and play nice with bulkier projects like window boxes and vintage trays. 

 

I prefer the shiny surface treatment of Crate's 12 x 12 chipboard sheet. The sheen gives rise to brighter, saturated colors and overall, is significantly more attractive. This new sheet is decked out in Summer-themed emblems like sunglasses, popsicles, ice cream cones, carnival rides and so forth. For a peek at the whole thing, check out Crate's blog {link above}.

 

And finally, the very best part, the Pier Patterned Paper Collection. Look at all that pure saturated color!! Sure, there are a couple of neutrals hanging out, but it's balanced by strong pops of color and stylish patterns that are sure to get your heart going. My FAVE is the Rainbow Chevron, the first paper that caught my eye. The number woodgrain is a runner-up, as is the umbrella design. 

There are more patterns to behold - again, review Crate's blog to see it all! 

Again, it won't be long until the collection shows up at your fave local scrapbook store. If you can't find it locally, there's always the online route. American Crafts also sells it direct.

Time to put away the goods - thank goodness for that second shelving unit!! Crate has outdone themselves again...I can't wait for the weather to finally "warm-up"!!