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Saturday, March 30, 2019

Partial Die Cutting




















Partial die cutting, also known as hinged die cutting is an excellent way to get more use out of all of the dies that you own. Get the most out of the investment in your dies with this technique. And you can master this technique, even on the first attempt.

You can use it to create a decorative edge or create a focal point on your paper craft project. Think about creating dimensional sentiments and pieces that pop out of your card front. 

By using partial die cutting, you make an element that has part of the cut attached to the card (or hinged) while the other part is popped up from the base.


















Partially Die Cut Borders





Creating A Circle Die Cut Card




Supplies

  • White card stock between 90-110 lbs.,
  • Die cutting machine and accessories.
  • Scoreboard
  • Bone folder
  • Circle die in any size.
  1. Use a piece of white cardstock vertically and score it at the 5 1/2 "
  2. Fold it and strengthen the fold with a bone folder. 
  3. Lay the edge of the circle die over the edge of the folded card.
  4. Following the directions for your die cutting machine create the die cutting sandwich.
  5. Make sure that the circle die is over the edge of the fold before cutting it. 
  6. When you are done, you should have a circle with a small fold at the top.












Here are some additional partial die cutting projects and ideas to give your creative side more inspiration.




Friday, March 29, 2019

One sheet purse mini album.



I found this project and felt it was worthy of sharing. This is actually a one page mini album. It actually looks more elegant than it is to make. This would be an excellent Mother's Day gift especilly if filled with grandkids pictures !  What would you do with it?

Thursday, March 28, 2019

Alcohol Marker Blend Ideas


































Alcohol Marker Basics



Nibs Matter

 There are different types of nibs available. Most often, the nibs can be replaced with another choice. Since most alcohol markers have two ends you will get two nibs. 
  • Brush tips look like the ends of a paint brush and feel like that when you are using them. They are the larger type of the nibs available. So, they are great when you want to cover larger areas. They most often come with a slim tip that helps you get into small areas. 
  • A chisel tip is a short, angled tip with a slanted edge that can make both broad as well as slim lines. You can use them to cover large areas as well as thick and thin applications without changing tips. 
  • A fine nib, also called a bullet nib has a slender tip is used for fine detail and outlining projects. They can create fine detail and as a shader. 

Paper To Use With Alcohol Markers

At a very minimum you need to use paper that is at least 80 lbs. or heavier. The reason behind that need is that alcohol markers can bleed through paper. You can find the weight of the paper on the paper packaging wrapping. There are heavyweight papers that are made specifically for these markers.

Another thing to consider is tooth. That is the roughness or smoothness of texture of the paper. Paper with a rougher texture can be damaging to the tips of your markers. It can also be more difficult to get clean and smooth lines on your projects. Heavyweight paper with a smooth surface would be the preferred paper surface to get the best results with alcohol markers. 

You can also use these markers on other surfaces like glass and metals, but you will need a sealant to protect the color and make it last.




Why We Love Alcohol Markers

There are so many reasons to love alcohol, markers. They have become so popular with colorists. 

  • They are permanent once they are applied to paper. Not even water can remove them.
  • They air dry very quickly.
  • Alcohol markers can be used on different kinds of papers.
  • Dual ended tips give you the best coloring options. 
  • You can control the lightness or heaviness of the color depending on the pressure of your hand. 
  • Some are refillable which means that you will save money using ink refills rather than buying new markers. 

Using Color Codes Choose The Markers To Blend

When you are using alcohol markers, you will find that each manufacturer has a color code that defines the lighter and darker colors within each color family. While the identification of markers might be different from one company to another, there is one thing that they all have in common. That is a color swatch sheet that you can find and print out for that group of markers. The color swatch shows you the color and the identification code for that marker. Using the color swatch means that you will be able to choose the right two or three colors for your blending. 

Ways To Blend Alcohol Markers

Single Color Blend

You can use just one marker to get a single-color blend on your project. One marker can be used to add more definition to anywhere where you want to add dimension. 
  1. Appy the ink to the area that you want to color.
  2. Apply a second coat of ink to the area where you want to shade, avoiding the area where you want the lightest shade.
  3. Apply the marker a third time where you want the color to be the darkest.

Simple Color Blend

The easiest way to create a color blend is by using two colors that are a lighter color, a medium and a darker color. Since each of the markers are identified with numbers or other identification that will help you find the three closest colors in your marker color family.
  1. Color your project with the lightest of your three colors. 
  2. While the first color is still wet, apply the second color shading the top, side and bottom of the project.
  3. Use your lightest color to go over the edges of the where the two colors meet. This softens the transition.
  4. Use the darkest color to shadow the base and lower sides of the project.
  5. Use the medium color to f=go over the edges o soften the lines.

Using A Blender

Using Rubbing Alcohol

Since your alcohol markers have alcohol in them, there is no better blending medium than rubbing alcohol. However, you will need the right paper to blend with this medium to avoid buckling of the paper with this technique. 
  1. Color the area with the first color.
  2. Then add the second color very close to the first.

Feathering

Feathering is another alternative way to blend alcohol ink colors. The blend will look sketchier than a smooth blend. It gives you a more textured result. To create this technique, you will need a brush nib.
  1. Start with the lightest tone of the three markers you are planning to use. Flick away from the edge of your image into the center.
  2. Once you have enough ink on your image, start with the second color of your three. Flick from the lightest color further into the image. Make sure to overlap the colors.
  3. Now flick the third color from your medium color finishing with this darkest color. 
  4. You can flick over and over until you have the desired blend for your project.

 

Wednesday, March 27, 2019

Die Cutting Hacks





Who does not love die cutting? Making some embellishments for all of your paper craft projects is so rewarding and fun! Die collecting once you get started is really addictive. So, as you invest in these delightful tools, you want to get the most from your investment.

Today, we are sharing some of our favorite and the best die cutting hacks to help you get the most from your time and efforts when you are creating those delightful little tools.


All About The Dies

There are a few things to understand about the sies themselves so that you get the best possible results from them. Understanding how to use your dies will help you avoid frustration when you are using them. 


Wafer Thin Dies

Wafer thin dies may have restrictions as to the materials that they can cut. Always refer to the packaging or the manufacturer's website if you have any questions or concerns. 

Larger Dies

Always cut larger dies (especially those with straight edges), at an angle. The larger dies have a lip that your die cut machine will have to get over. Make it easier for the machine by placing it on an angle when possible. 

Nesting Dies

Nesting dies give you so many creative options for die cutting, card makers and lots of other paper craft options. Here are some tips to get the most from your nesting dies.

Nesting dies give you the option of layering pieces on a design. Make sure to use quality cardstock or materials to assure that your layers will hold up.

Make sure that your die is aligned properly. Use washi or other low tack tape to make sure that your die stays in place. 
Play with texture. Mix different textures to get a true custom result.

When adding layers to your project take the time to align the layers. Adhesive foam, dots or double-sided tape can be used to adhere layers. Make sure that the adhesive you use is placed to make all the layers are leveled evenly. 

Mix shapes from different die sets. Add some interest to your projects by using creative design using different shapes. 


Avoid Losing Your Dies

It happens to everyone at one time or another. We are busy creating and somehow, somewhere one of our dies disappears. here are some tips to avoid that from happening.
  • Place a strip of magnetic tape on your work area to hold your dies when not in use.
  • Use the magnetic strip from a knife block to hold your dies.

Emboss a Die

Embossing a die is another way to extend the use of your dies. You will need to add an embossing mat to your sandwich. Soe manufacturers include an embossing mat with the machine. Others require an additional purchase. 

Dry embossing with dies are another way to increase the use of the dies in your stash. In this case you simply fac the cutting edge of the die away from the paper; There is no cutting involved. Instead, you create a raised embossed image. You have the choice of using either the raised portion (the embossed side) or the image indented into the paper (the debossed side).







Die Cut Tips And Hacks


Always make sure that your dies are clean before using them. Use a die brush or a pick to remove bits of paper.

Keep your die cutting machine on a flat solid surface. Make sure that you have space in front and behind the machine to allow the plates to move through the machine. 

Make sure that the die stays in place when you go to make your cuts. A magnetic plate may help with that. You can also secure it with painter's tape, washi tape or any other low tack tape. 

Use adhesive sheets when you are cutting detailed die cuts. Rather than trying to glue all the tiny details, you can create a "sticker" with your die cuts.

Thinner cardstock cuts easier. So, if you are cutting sentiments you may want to consider using thinner cardstock. Layering several cuts give dimension to your sentiment. You can use your scrap paper to cut your layers.

To prevent your die from sticking to the cardstock, dust the cardstock with some powder. 

Instead of adhesive sheets for your intricate dies, you can also use a glue pen, spray adhesive, or wide double-sided tape. 

If your die is not cutting through the cardstock, add an additional piece of cardstock as a shim to help cut through to get the best cut.

You can add a piece of waxed paper between the die and the cardstock to get a better release, especially with intricate dies. This can be a real game changer!

Remove the negative pieces from your detailed dies with a pick or a die brush. A lint brush is a great tool to remove detailed dies from a cutting plate.

Use a piece of painter's tape to hold the "I "dot till you need to use it.
 
Create your sandwich (the way your plates, dies and cardstock are stacked) following the way the manufacturer suggests. Keep the directions for your die cut machine handy so that you can refer to it when you need to.

If your cut is not smooth enough, use sticky tape around the edges to remove all the little bits around the edges.

If you are die cutting on any material that has a grain to it. make sure that you align your die with the grain direction. This prevents the material from ripping or cracking.

To prolong the life of your plates, rotate them on a regular basis.








We hope that these ideas will help you get better die cuts. Why not leave a comment to let us know that you stopped by.

Until next time, Happy Crafting!

Linda





Monday, March 25, 2019

Watercolor Cards | Ombre Technique



The most simple techniques can often yield the best results. Here is a simple watercolor technique that will help you create the most elegant card. Naturally, you should use watercolor paper for this technique. I also recommend that you use a heat tool. The paper may curl a bit, but when you dry it, it should flatten out.

You could use different colors for different themes. Blue for boys and masculine cards, pink for girls, greens and yellows for Easter and summer themes, oranges and browns for fall.

Have you ever made a watercolor ombre card?

Friday, March 22, 2019

Cross Rosette



Here is a very pretty rosette that you can make with your kids to celebrate the season of Lent/ Would also be very nice for a confirmation, baptism or first communion decor. 

Wednesday, March 20, 2019

Distress Oxide technique - smudge & bump effect - scrapcosy stamps & ste...



Here is a new technique that combines oxide inks with archival inks to create an original and exciting new look. The words actually look like they are raised from the paper, This would work with any image and word combination. Gotta love this look !

Tuesday, March 19, 2019

The Inside Scoop- Decorating the inside of your cards



Have you ever considered decorating the inside of your cards? Give all your greeting card projects a new finished look with these ideas ! Perfect use of your stamps both inside and outside of your cards 

Monday, March 18, 2019

How to make 3D paper Easter Eggs Very easily ~ DIY Easter Decor ~ Tutori...



What a great idea for an Easter craft that actually can use some of your left over paper ! Your kids can help you make these ! So easy and so cute !

Saturday, March 16, 2019

11 Easy DIY Belly Band Ideas For Elegant Cards And Invitations



Belly bands make your gatefold card even more elegant. Check out how to do them with this tutorial, They are easy to make and make a lovely statement. 

Friday, March 15, 2019

11 Easy DIY Gatefold Card Tutorials For Cards And Invitations



I love gatefold cards. They are so easy to do with just too folds. Yet they make such a huge impression. There are so many things that you can do with just one card. Here are 11 ideas to get you started with these simple , yet elegant card base ideas.

Thursday, March 14, 2019

Free Coloring Seminar

I recently started a free seminar on adult coloring. This is a well produced video seminar that teaches techniques and ideas. If you are interested, I have provided a link for you. Join the seminar here

Wednesday, March 13, 2019

Stampin' 101: Envelope Punch Board and making envelope liners



I always need envelopes for my cards. I always to never seem to have enough. So making the expenditure for this board was an easy choice. Do you have a board toi create envelopes? How do you do it?

Tuesday, March 12, 2019

How To Make An Easter Egg Gift Box �� DIY Gift Box - Paper Crafts



Here is our weekly holiday craft. Right now we are focusing on Easter ! This is a really cute craft that you might use on your Easter dinner table ! A few pieces of candy sitting in some Easter grass would be adorable !

Monday, March 11, 2019

Cut Up Stamping



Could you ever think about cutting up your images to make a new look? That is the last thing that I would think of, yet here it is ! I think this look gives a new dimension to cards. Time to get out your stamps and really think about how to use them in this new way. 

Sunday, March 10, 2019

6 Easy Gift Bags | how to make a gift bag



I love these gift bags ! They are perfect for spring crafts. Use them for Easter crafts, favor bags for weddings, showers and more. I make them ahead and have a few on hand for little thank you gifts. Tuck in some chocolates, flower seeds. or gift cards. I hope you enjoy making them.




Crayola Is offering a really fun ornament kit for Easter ornaments. The kit has everything you need to create these lovely ornaments. You can make them yourself or create them with your kids



Model Magic Easter Egg Ornaments Craft Kit Now: $22.49

Friday, March 8, 2019

Art Journal Backgrounds







There are so many ways to create art journal backgrounds. Every piece is a custom unique piece of art. But for most of us, it is all about looking at that blank page and not knowing where to start. So, here are some tips and ideas to help you get started.  

You can use a single media or a mixed media for your background. As always, it is your art, your way!

I am always looking for new ideas for art journal backgrounds. When I can across these, I was very impressed. They are great ideas that even a beginner could do. How do you do your backgrounds. We would love to hear your ideas.


What Can You Use To Create An Art Journal Background?

  • Alcohol and other ink sprays
  • Gesso
  • Inks
  • Distress inks.
  • Oxide inks
  • Paints
  • Watercolors
  • Watercolor markers
  • Gel Pens
  • Embossing paste
  • Gilding flakes
  • Distress crayons.

Water Stamping Technique

Supplies

  • Journal page.
  • Distress inks.
  • Gesso
  • Paint brush.
  • Fine tipped pens
  • Blending tool with pad
  • Water 
  • Spray bottle filled with water.
  1. Spread a thin layer of gesso on your pages and let it dry.
  2. Choose the distress ink colors you want to use and add color to the pages.
  3. Use a damp brush and blend the ink. It works like watercolor paint. 
  4. Let it dry.
  5. Use a blending tool to add more ink. That will intensify the color.
  6. Spray a stamp with water.
  7. Stamp the page to create a design.
  8. Once the page is dry, outline the stamped sections with a fine tipped pen.


More Ideas To Get Started

  1. Just add one or two colors to your page and build from that. It can be any pattern anywhere on your page.
  2. Doodle. Create patterns and drawings. Your doodles can be anything you can think of from flowers, to abstracts to shapes. You can use a pencil, fine tipped marker, gel pen or whatever you may have. 
  3. Divide the page in half either vertically or horizontally. Use two different colors in each of the halves. 
  4. Use stencils to create your background. Do an overall stencil or create bits of patterns over your pages. Add colors to the patterns with ink o other media. 
  5. Create patterns with sponges and paint.
  6. Use a layer of paint or ink on your page and let it dry. Then "pour" a little paint at the top of the page and let it drip down the front. Be sure to have something below to catch the excess paint. 
  7. Brush some paint on your paper. Let it dry. then add a different color on top and scrap it across the page till you are satisfied with the result. 
  8. Spray some ink spray or alcohol ink spray on your pages. Then sprinkle some salt on the wet spray. Let it dry and brush off the leftover salt.









Just focus on creating the background and nothing more. Take it one step at a time so that you do not get frustrated. 

Choose only one or two different media to create your background pages. Adding too many tools to the process will make your creative process too cumbersome.

Dig in and get started. Even if you are not sure where you are headed, just start adding color. Inspiration will come as you move along. 

If you are using paints for your background, it is always wise to prep the page by using a coat of gesso. 

Scrap any left overpaint onto a clean page to start another background.





















Thursday, March 7, 2019

Decoupage LED Candle | Dollar Tree DIY



Here is an idea for a decoupaged candle- This time we use an LED candle. Napkins are so much fun to work with in paper crafts. I will bet that you have a few LED candles around. These are great formholidays, birthdays, weddings and baby showers. Easy to do and very economical.

Tuesday, March 5, 2019

Kleenex Box Tops to Spring Embellishments Part 1



I love to recycle ! Especially in my paper crafts ! Here is a new idea to make a super cool paper craft! You can actually use the top of a Kleenex box or any other tissue box to make a delightful embellishment. You could make a card out of it or an embellishment for a scrapbook page or an art journal. Is this fun ! You bet it is !

Monday, March 4, 2019

DIY Pop-up Birthday Card | Card Making | Handmade Card



Do you enjoy pop up cards like I do? Here is a pop up that is easy to make, but will get smiles from whoever you send it too. Pop up cards are easier to make than you might imagine ! Have you ever made a pop up? 

Sunday, March 3, 2019

Distress Resist Spray Techniques



I am really excited about this new product- distress resist spray. It adds new dimension to your distress inks. Here is everything you need to know about this product. Techniques and information are included. 

Saturday, March 2, 2019

6 Easy DIY Paper Envelopes | Paper Envelope Making | How To Make Envel...



Here are some very unique envelopes you can make with just a few folds, I am always looking for envelopes. Colorful envelopes make a difference in card presentation. It is just that extra little touch that makes a difference.