Monday, November 14, 2011

Christmas Card Workshop

Wow ~ 2 posts in less than 4 days... something must be going on!  Yep, it sure is.  Sarah (my fabulous upline) and I are prepping for our Christmas Holiday Card Workshop.  We will be doing 10 cards (5 of each of 2 designs) and 10 tags (5 of each of 2 designs) for only $25. 
We would love to have you come out and join us. 
 If you are interested, please send me an email or reply to this post on my blog. 

To entice you even further, I've added the pictures of the cards we will be doing.
 Tags will be utilizing the same stamp sets and colors as the cards.


This first card is an adaptation from page 104 in the Close To My Heart Autumn/Winter Idea Book. We used only the color pallet in the Wonderland (X7146B - $9.95) paper pack.  We also used the Glory To God (D1483 - $17.95) stamp set with a little Colonial White Ribbon (Z1102 $6.95).


This second card is another adaptation.  We chose the card on page 105 of the Close To My Heart Autumn/Winter Idea Book.  However, this time, we used the Believe (X7145B-$9.95) Paper pack, round Sparkles (Z1263-$2.95), White Daisy Ribbon (Z270-$6.95), the A Timber (A1110- $6.95) stamp set, and the Holiday Commentary stamp set (C1379 - $13.95). 



So clear your calendar, because on Saturday, December 3, 2011 10am - Noon
 you are gonna be cranking out some hand-made holiday cards  for your friends and family.



Saturday, November 12, 2011

Recent Creative Activity

Hey everyone!

Hope you are doing well and enjoying the return of .... oh wait, it isn't exactly fall weather out there is it?  Well, you know what I mean.  I've been busy making a few items for different people and thought I'd share them with you.  Hope you enjoy!

This is a coaster I antiqued and then stamped using staz-on.


Different take on the Roxie paper pack for a birthday card.


This is a photo box I purchased at Michael's when they were on a super sale.  I covered it in Roxie paper (one of my all time favorite paper packs) then I used the Art Philosopy Cricut cartridge to make the flower.  The ribbon around the lid is from the Pink Collection at CTMH and of course, the bling is CTMH also.  The letters were chipboard letters I received as a gift about 2 years ago.  I made this for a friend's daughter.
She loved it. 

 Side view of Roxie photo box

This is the card our dept gave to our principal at school.  We each wrote something on the 10 strips.  He loved it and called me in the middle of a lesson to tell me so.  Brownie points for sure!


This is a card using a border punch and the Roxie paper pack.  Add a little bling and it is simple, yet elegant.


This card was created for a Steampunk Auction and Fund raiser.  I used the Mischief paper packet and some Liquid Glass.  This card fetched $5.


Another card created for the Steampunk Auction.  This card got the group bidding!  Ended up going for $15!  Then, I was asked to sign my work.  Out of the 4 Steampunk cards, this one was my favorite.  Find Your Style stamp set, black ink, olive paper, a border punch, and the splash from the Instant Memories stamp set. 


Here is the 3rd Steampunk Card.  I was asked to incoporate Tarot cards into some of the artwork.  This particular card lent is self very well to the Sonoma paper pack.  I used the Kraft Die-Cut Cards as the base and the Heirloom Assortment for the bling and resin flowers.


Another card for the Steampunk Auction.  Sorry they are sideways, I haven't figured out how to turn them, yet.


This is the photo box I created for the Steampunk Auction/Fund raiser.  I took pages from an old Wuthering Heights paperback.  I inked and tore the pages - this took me about 2 hours because I was very slow and meticulous.  I glued the pages down using Liquid Glass because I wanted a shiny look.  I added 2 of the Tarot cards and several sprockets.  I used the Heirloom Assortment for the resin flower and more Liquid Glass to hold it all together. The base of the box was covered with Mischief paper. 


Here are 3 Halloween treat bags I created.  Had so much fun doing this.  Of course, I used my all time favorite Cricut cartridge - the one and only exclusive Art Philosophy from Close To My Heart.


I purchased a cap that already had a distressed look to it.  I used black paper and made flowers, then I stamped (using staz on) the flourish from the You and Me kit.  To adhere the flowers to the cap, I dabbed a little Liquid Glass and let it set.  Ta Da - super cute and super easy!


This is the card and gift bag I created for my nephew's 12th birthday.  Using the Art Philosophy Cricut cartridge, I cut out the bag using the Wonderland paper pack.  I then felt the need to create a card to match, so I used the Dimensional Elements that had been stamped using Chocolate ink in the Small Chocolate Alphabet set.  I tied the 'flags' to the ribbon/pole using Hemp from CTMH.  My nephew actually liked the card and the bag ~ so I guess I done good!



Well, that is not all I've created lately, but all I took pictures of.  Yes, I know, I'm slacking.  But, I promise in the future I will do better.  In the meantime, let me know if you need/want anything from Close To My Heart.  I would love for you to have a Gathering. (You earn free products and your friends get to shop!)  The holidays are fast approaching and there are so many who would love a gift from Close To My Heart.

Happy Craftin' Y'all!

Saturday, October 15, 2011

The Lastest

Hi Everyone,

Well, it has been over a month since I updated here.  School is in full swing and well, life just happens.  But, I'm back on here to let you know what is new and fun! 

First off, let me say WELCOME to Misty Long - my new and first recruit!  Misty and I have known each other since high school.  She is a fabulous mom and a genius when comes to Girl Scouts.  When she hosted her Gathering, she said "I don't care what we do, I just want the Art Philosophy Cricut Cartridge as my Hostess gift."  And let me just tell you, that girl earend her AP Cartridge at 50% off!  She was in heaven! 
Misty took advantage of Close To My Heart's October Campaign - sign up for $99 and get an add on for F-R-E-E! 


The kits are fabulous (of course they are - they are Close To My Heart!) and well, you can never have too much of great crafty materials.   Being a consultant with Close To My Heart has so many rewards ~ you get to see the latest and greatest trends in the crafting world, you get our exclusive My Acrylix stamps and stamp blocks to wow your friends with, but for me, the best part is the connection I have with consultants all over the US and Canada. 

If you have finally decided that now is the time for you to sign on the dotted line and become a consultant, call me, text me, facebook me, or email me.  I'm here for you and want you to have the best of the crafting world and a free add on! 

Crafty Wishes to you!
Michelle

Friday, September 9, 2011

The 2011 Elizabeth Experience

Hi Y'all!
Sorry it's been a while since I've posted, school has started back up and I'm running crazy trying to get everything done.  It's not a bad thing at all I love my job, just lots to do.  AND I'm super grateful to have my job!

Last year, a friend of mine lost her little girl at the age of only 24 days to Trisomy 13.  If you do not know about this disorder, please check it out at www.nowilaymedowntosleep.org .  My friend, Natasha and her wonderful hubby Jody are celebrating baby Elizabeth's Angelversary by having a shopping experience like no other and all proceeds are being donated to the Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep organization.  How is this shopping experience so special? Well, other than celebrating beautiful baby Elizabeth and all other Trisomy babies who are watching over us, there will be several independent consultants from many different companies there to help you with all your shopping needs.  Of course, I'll be there ready to help you and all your friends/family with any and all of your card making, stamping, and scrapbooking needs.  I will be partying with the Tromplers and other fan-tabulous consultants from other companies on Saturday, October 15th from 1-4 in Lewisville, Texas.  However, if you can't make it to Lewisville, Texas you can shop online!  http://www.mjwest.myctmh.com/ - Just look for the Natasha Trompler party, click on that, then shop away! 

Below, I've pasted the flyer Natasha & Jody Trompler have created for this special event. 

                                      The 2011 Elizabeth Experience
In loving memory of Elizabeth Anne Trompler, September 10, 2010 – October 4, 2010
Please help us raise awareness and funds in honor of Elizabeth.
Elizabeth was born with the genetic disorder, Trisomy 13. Although most babies with this condition do not make it to birth, Elizabeth did, and she blessed our lives for 24 days.  She was a true blessing from God, and we cherish the short time He gave us with her.  Our lives are better because of our daughter. We invite you to follow our journey from her diagnosis to her death, and then life beyond, by visiting Elizabeth’s Caring Bridge site at www.caringbridge.org/visit/elizabethtrompler. 
As Elizabeth’s first birthday and Angelversary approach, we want to honor her memory by increasing awareness of Trisomy 13 and related disorders, while raising funds for “Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep”. NILMDTS provides memory preservation to families with terminally ill or stillborn babies.  If you are not familiar with “Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep”, please visit their website, www.nowilaymedowntosleep.org. 
The 2011 Elizabeth Experience consists of 2 fundraising opportunities.  Opportunity 1 is a shopping extravaganza targeted to individual consultants willing to donate their profits from the designated extravaganza party to NILMDTS.  Opportunity 2 is an online auction. We are looking for donated items, certificates, and services for this auction.  All profits from both events will be going to Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep.
Opportunity 1: Shopping Extravaganza
 Saturday, October 15, 2011 1:00-4:00
Location: 208 Vagon Castle, Lewisville, TX  75056
Whether you are an individual consultant or a shopper, don’t miss out on this event!  We anticipate having vendors including jewelry, candles, toys, make-up, purses and travel, and more! For consultants, this is a great opportunity to widen your customer base.  Reserve your spot now to ensure you are included in this event!  For shoppers, this is a fabulous opportunity to get a head start on your holiday shopping and contribute to a good cause. 
Opportunity 2:  Online Auction
Friday, October 21– Thursday, October 27 at midnight
Location: Online / Go to “The 2011 Elizabeth Experience” page on Facebook
We are looking for donations of items, certificates, and services to be contributed to the auction.  The deadline for contributions is Friday, October 7.  

If you are interested in participating as a consultant for the Shopping Extravaganza or donating for the Online Auction, please contact Natasha Trompler at 214-450-3470 or email at jandntrompler@yahoo.com for further details.

Thursday, August 25, 2011

Liquid Glass

Ok, one of my favorite tools is Liquid Glass.  This stuff is amazing and can be used in so many different ways on so many different items.  I've CASE'd (copied and shared everything) below for all of you.  These are NOT my ideas, I've borrowed them from many different CTMH consultants.  I hope you enjoy reading all the info.  When you are done, feel free to contact me for your own liquid glass obsession to begin!

 *I have used Liquid glass with Prisma glitter to make icicles before

*We used liquid glass on some B&T paper that had polka dots. We put a dot of LG on each polka dot which made the polka dots shiny.
 
*Use to attach page elements (especially good with clear items): metals, vellum (note: it can show through a little bit), transparencies, fibers, flowers, plastic embellishments, stickers that have lost their stick…etc…
 
*Use to add any kind of water effect to a page: bubbles, water droplets, or just to make something look wet
 
*If you have a dull metal object you can make it look shiny again by adding a thin layer of glaze
 
*Use to highlight designs on patterned paper (ex: flowers, vines, or even geometric figures – any area you may want to draw attention to, or add interest!)

* Use on photo to make an object stand out
 
*Use on stickers to give them dimension

* Add some ink to change the color and it gives it a stained glass look

* Use it with micro beads

* Make clear epoxy type-stickers with it

* Add it to acrylic paint to give it added sticking power (and a glossy shine) when painting metals
 
* Drop it on a transparency the size of the picture you’re using and then hold it up and let it drip down. When it dries, put in front of your picture and it looks like the picture has water running down it - great for water park or slip-and-slide pics

* Don’t want a knot/bow in a piece of ribbon or fiber to keep slipping out? Add a dot of liquid glass on the back – it dries clear, rarely (if ever) discolors

* Use on shrink plastic to give a beautiful glossy look!

* Pound down a bottle cap, cut a photo down to size and put it inside the bottle cap, then cover with the glaze and let it harden. Need to watch it though - sometimes the pic wants to 'float', you may want to temporarily adhere it with something else before you glaze over it.

* Use it to add glitter to a project.

* Use it to make a crystal for your clocks/watches

* Use them on My Stickease

* When you want to put liquid glass on a shape... like an oval or square saying from the word puzzles. Stamp your image on your cardstock, but do not cut around it yet... Cover with a thin coat of liquid glass. Then add additional coats until it reaches the desired thickness. After your image is completely dry... then cut it out. If you cut it our first, the moisture from the product will curl the edges of your paper as it dries.

* Always start with a thin coat and then add additional coats until desired thickness
 
* You can tint your liquid glass by mixing in a little re-inker, then use a toothpick to apply to desired area.
 
*It's fun to trace words with!
 
* Works great on Stickease!!!  Place small amounts on a sheet protector. When it's dry it peels right up and you can then add it to your project by placing a small amount of liquid glass around the edges to adhere it to your project. If you want to draw certain shapes, stick a piece of cardstock with the shapes on it in your sheet protector and then you can draw on top of them. You can cut out the image with scissors to make the edges all nice and neat. You can take a piece that is almost dry and crack it like cracked glass!!!

* Layer it on your projects to give a smooth glass-like finish.

* Spot Gloss: Apply a thick layer of liquid glass directly to the stamped image with the applicator tip. Let dry completely (about 30 - 60 minutes) before handling.

* All-Over Gloss: Use a paintbrush to apply a thin, even coat of liquid glass to the entire image. Let dry (about 3-5 minutes).

* Use the applicator tip to apply a thicker layer of LG to "select elements" of your design to add emphasis. Apply a second or third coat if your first layer was not standing up off your paper enough to please you. Some ideas are to apply it to leaves, flower petals, insects, teacup, umbrella, window, eyeglasses, Christmas ornaments.

* Simulate dew on a petal by adding little droplets to flowers. You can also add it to the petals of actual dried flowers or fake plastic ones. This really does look like dew and you won't spend a fortune buying designers ones from stores.

* Highlight only special line on an image

* Use LG to outline your image. This provides the look of embossing without needing the heat gun. This looks especially inviting when used as "frosting" of a cake.

* Try applying the LG in layers. By that I mean apply a thick line of LG to the outline of your stamped image. Allow that to dry and then come back with a brush and apply a thinner coat of LG to the inside area that you outlined. Allowing time to dry between applications will keep the areas from merging and will add depth and make the image look 3-D. You can also add a 3rd and 4th layer by applying a second coating to an area that has already dried. It will really make your images POP!

* It truly gives the look of glass and as such looks wonderful when used on glass items such as the light bulb in the Little Inspirations set or the Christmas lights in the Border Builders set . . . Makes the lights shine. Use LG on the fish bowl in the Little Hellos stamp set or use it to create a faux glass "Bug Jar" and use one of the bug sets to stamp some bugs to go in the jar

* Experiment with different applicators to add textured patterns to your stamp art. Use a paintbrush to apply a thin coat and swirl the bristles to create small circles, half moons, or squiggles to achieve different results. Use a stencil brush to dab on LG for a rougher texture. Use a sponge to create a spackled look.
 
* Use LG to seal your shrink art pins. This creates dimension and provides a more exclusive look to your shrink art. This is the perfect way to seal your poly shrink wine charms while providing a great glassy finish.

* After applying LG to an image, sprinkle a little Prisma glitter on top. This adds more dimensional sparkle than using other types of glue and looks great as candle flames, camp fires, etc.

* Create a dimensional paint. Add LG to small containers you can find in the paint section of hobby stores and then add a drop or two of CTMH re-inker and stir using a toothpick. Then apply color as desired to your stamped image allowing a few minutes drying time between colors so they won't blend. This provides truly beautiful results.

* LG makes the perfect glue for any project!! Use it to attach your poly shrink plastic embellishments, beads, feathers, and bows. It is very strong, great for adding hard to hold magnets, pin backs, and wire to your stamped projects. Be sure to let it dry completely before handling.

* Use it to make flat marble magnets or bulletin board tacks. Purchase the glass marbles/pebbles that have a flat side to them in the floral section of craft stores. Then use the circle punch to create the perfect shape to place behind these see-through marbles. Stamp desired image on the card stock circle and color it in using the Markers. Use Krylon Matte Acrylic or use the Krylon Workable Fixative to seal markers. Next, apply Crystal Effects to the flat marble and not to the stamped image. Then press the marble onto the stamped circle. If you don't have the Krylon to seal the markers, applying the LG in this manner (to the marble instead of the stamped image) will keep the image colors from smearing. Apply a bit more LG and then attach a magnet or push pin to it.

* Here's a twist on using it to make the flat, clear marble magnets . . .Trim small school photo to fit the back of the stone. Pour LG directly onto the picture. Then adhere to the back of the stone. Let dry and then add magnet to the back for a refrigerator magnet of your little darlings.

* Use it to glue vellum to card stock. It won’t show through. I’ve found the best way to keep vellum from wrinkling or “popping up” after application of CE is to apply it with a fingertip or Q-tip applicator in a very thin coat . . . DO NOT apply it straight from the bottle.
 
* Make Glitter Gloss using LG, prisma or other ultra fine Glitter, and an old paint brush. This is really simple. Squirt out some LG onto a scrap of acetate or other non-porous surface. Using a toothpick, stir in some glitter until you have the consistency you want. Then using a paintbrush, brush the glitter gloss onto your stamped art, stamped tiles, polymer beads, etc. When dry, it gives a glossy and sparkly look to your art. Try using this to add glitter to snowcaps made with liquid applique, add highlights to ornaments, Valentine hearts, etc. Anywhere that you want to add a bit of sparkles. You can also use this same homemade glitter gloss on hand painted ceramics and clothing.

* Make a Stained Glass Glitter Window. Stamp image on window sheets using Staz On. Allow a second or two to let it dry. Next, use the tip of the LG bottle to move it (LG) around to cover each individual area with a thin layer of the LG. While it is still wet, dump on glitter. Only do one color of glitter at a time. let each area dry at least an hour before going to the next color.

* Use it for "fray check" on the ends of your ribbon after you have cut them to the desired length.
 
*Place on top of Radiant Pearls or Pearl Ex and get even more pearlescent shimmer and shine.
 
* Use LG, stamped tissue paper and prisma glitter to create beautiful, sparkling ornaments for Christmas or any special occasion.
 
* Create "Shimmering Pearls" by adding a small amount of Pearl Ex powder to some LG. Then apply over your stamp art with a brush.
 
* Add LG to areas of images that you've dry embossed and achieve even more "pop"!

* Use LG to seal beaded pens. After you make your pen, set it into a block of Styrofoam. Let your pen cure (inserted into the Styrofoam) for 24 hours. Then dip the pen upside down into the bottle of LG. Tip it right side up, and insert back into the Styrofoam to dry for another 24 hours. It works like a charm sealing the pen so that he beads won't fall off.

* Use LG to seal Domino art when you've used chalks or Pearl Ex to color in your image. The LG creates a wonderful thick sheen when applied in more than one coat. Or you can use it as a sort of Modge Podge to attach a stamped tissue paper design to the Domino (similar to the candle/tissue paper technique or the glittery glass bulbs technique.)
 
*Put some liquid glass on a sheet of acetate--or other non poreus tray, take a baggie smooched up in your hand, dip the baggie in the liquid glass and smooche it randomly on a piece of card stock. Like the sponging technique with paint that was really popular in the 90's! Let it dry. Then sponge on ink--you can use more than one color. I did this technique on bamboo cardstock and sponged on olive and chocolate ink. Wherever the liquid glass was resisted the ink and the bamboo color showed through--I did this to make my own camo cardstock. I've also done it on chocolate cardstock and lightly sponged cocoa ink, with the tone on tone it gave it a faux leather look!
 
*I just tried making my own buttons with cardstock and liquid glass from the tutorial on splitcoast stampers. I cut out 5 circles/ size you want but I used 3/4 inch circles on cricut and then 1 circle ring of the same size with the cricut. You use any cs you want the buttons to be- which is totally perfect if you don't have that perfect color of button...anyways you glue each one on top of each other- with the ring last. this makes the button look real. using a tiny hole punch or piercing tool make as many "button holes " as you wish. Sand edges to blend ,hides all the layers and then over it with liquid glass- even the edges to give it the "plastic look"- lay out to dry on a piece of wax paper. What's cool too is it let's you make buttons of any shapes you wish- such as hearts, stars etc. I love the idea that if you don't own the button in the color of your layout...then make it! Was quick and fun to do- I used scrap Col white CS and distressed in choc ink before using the Liquid Glass to coat overtop- loved the antique look this gave them. If you want to see the tutorial go to splitcoaststampers.com under resources at the top right of the main page. Hope this helps even if a little late...smiling!
 
*I had photos from a water park and used LG to create some 3-D waterØ effects. I also used it to circle the grandkid in the photo to separate her from all the other kiddies.

Wednesday, August 17, 2011

4 for $5

In celebration of our newly updated Stamp of the Month program, we're throwing in a little something extra: a FREE bonus stamp set! In August, when you place an order of $50 US/$55 CAN or more in products and purchase the August Stamp of the Month set, Wicked, for just $5/$5.50, you’ll receive the My Acrylix® A Typeface A-size set FREE (a retail value of $6.95/$7.75). Think of this as two promotions in one—qualify for and purchase the discounted August Stamp of the Month set and we'll throw in a second stamp set FREE! It's Extra! Extra!



But, it keeps getting better! To celebrate National Stamping Month in September, we are offering our first-ever double stamp set! You can get the exclusive My Acrylix® Pair-a-Phrase double stamp set FREE when you place an order of $75 US / $82 CAN from August 15 through September 30, 2011. You'll love this double set—two D-size sets in one envelope—which includes lots of clever phrases and coordinating images you'll use in your handmade cards all year long. The double set has a retail value of $35.90/$39.90, which drastically increases the value of your qualifying purchase! Have double the fun stamping during National Stamping Month with our new Pair-a-Phrase double stamp set!

Wednesday, August 10, 2011

New Fall/Winter 2011 Idea Book

Well, it is here! The new 2011 Fall/Winter Idea Book from Close To My Heart. There are so many beautiful, fun, and creative ideas in this new Idea Book. Too bad I have to go back to work, I'd much prefer to stay home and craft!

I'm sure you've heard already, but if not, Close To My Heart now has an exclusive Cricut cartridge! It is called Art Philosophy. With the cartridge, which contains 700 images: font, shapes, and 3-D items, you also get 3 9x13 Dimensional Elements, and 3 stamp sets. Not only that, the stamp sets in this package can not be purchased any where else in the Idea Book. And let me just tell you, I'm having a blast playing... opps, I mean crafting.

The Augus Stamp Of The Month is called "Wicked." It is "wicked" fun getting Halloween cards made. Here are a few I've done recently.


Feel free to contact me for YOUR copy of the Art Philosophy Cricut cartridge. C'mon... you know you want it!

Also, check out www.closetomyheart.com then click on the Ideas & Inspirations tab. You'll see different how-to videos for several items in the Idea Book.

Well, I guess I better go set up my classroom. Of course, that is no where near as fun as playing/crafting! Have a fabulous Wednesday and I will see you soon.

Friday, July 22, 2011

Vacation

Well, in about 15 hours, I'll be heading out of town for vacation.  I am very ready.  But first, I will be stopping by my Upline Janene's place for a training over our new Idea Book.  Then, it is on the road to Minnesota.  Considering the 21 straight days of triple digit temps here in the Dallas area, I'm very ready to enjoy highs around 85 and lows in the 60's. 

While we are there, I will be seeing my Great Aunt Harriet.  She is a marvelous cook and can create just about anything. Pretty sure that is where I get my craftiness from.  Also, we will be attending my mom's high school reunion, the town fair, street dance, and my mom will be giving a talk at the library for her new book that has just been released for e-readers.  After that, we are on to Bemidji where we will relax and go fishing on a guided fishing tour.  The rest of the time, we will visit here & there with friends/relatives then drive back home.  Looking forward to seeing friends/relatives I haven't seen in a great many years. 

The only sad thing about this is I can't take my 2 dogs with me.  I will be away from them for 2 whole weeks.  Not quite sure how I'm going to deal with that. 

My mom asked my 6 year old niece Madison what she wanted us to bring her as a souvenir, she said a chocolate fishing pole.  I sure hope Minnesota has chocolate fishing poles because it is very hard to disappoint a 6 year old little girl with big blue eyes and adorable little freckles.  My eleven year old nephew wants shrimp.  That won't be a problem.  I'll also be bringing back several bottles of wine! yum!  Sure hope all the bottles make it past Nebraska ~ that can be an awfully long drive home.  lol!

Ok, well, I will be back in a couple of weeks and hope to have some pictures and fun fishing tales to spin for you.  Be safe & stay cool while you enjoy my mom's book.  R.S.V.P.: A Case for Logan Myles by Kathleen R. West  this can be found on Amazon.com and BN.com

Saturday, July 16, 2011

2011 CTMH Convention Info

Well, the 2011 Close To My Heart Convention in California is coming to a close.  I know my CTMH sisters are sad to say farewell to one another but are super excited about all the changes & new stuff going on. 

The new Idea Book is being released on August 1st and I just have to say, you NEED to see it.  This book is much more of a true 'idea' book as most of the pages have suggestions and tips to compliment the stamp(s), color palette, paper kit, etc. being presented. 

The big major announcement was the release of the Art Philosophy Cricut Cartridge ~ exclusive to Close To My Heart!  The cartridge has 700 shapes and comes with 3 Dimensional Elements (i.e. chipboard), and 3 stamp sets.  And can you believe it only costs $99?!  I know!  I'm super pumped about this addition to our product list. 

Another major announcement was the pricing of the stamps.... the price went (are you ready for this?) down!  woo hoo! 

A size - $6.95
B size - $9.95
C size - $13.95
D size - $17.95
E  size - $29.95

The new Consultant Kit for August is $99, so if you are on the fence about whether or not to join my team, now is the perfect time!  Great new products, amazing start up cost, and fabulous people who really care and encourage each other.  Go to http://www.mjwest.myctmh.com/ and go for it ~ join my team!

Close To My Heart is really moving forward with all of their new stamp sets, paper products, and Cricut cartridge.  I am so very proud to be an Independent Consultant for a wonderfully encourage and creative company!

Next summer, 2012, the Convention will be held in Dallas.  I'm so excited about this and can't wait!  Since I live about 10 minutes outside of Dallas, I will most definitely be there. 

Saturday, July 2, 2011

54 Things to do with Paper Scraps

Most of these, I found on http://www.scrapbook.com/, however, I did come up with a few on my own. How many have you done already?  How many are you going to try?  If you come up with  more, let me know! 
Enjoy & happy scrapping/crafting!

54 Things To Do With Paper Scraps
1. Make a collaged border.
2. Make matching cards.
3. Donate to a local preschool or day care.
4. Make gift tags.
5. Mis and match squares for a fun background.
6. Make die-cut shapes.
7. Create a whimsical mosaic.
8. Make a paper piercing.
9. Make a mini album.
10. Host a scrap party - have a few friends over & exchange scraps.
11. Give them to your kid(s).
12. Cover a chipboard shape or monogram.
13. Decorate a gift box/bag.
14. Embellish wooden letters.
15. Layer circles of different sizes to make posies.  Add a button or brad to the center.
16. Embellish a pillar candle with a paper ring.
17. Make napkin rings.
18. Make Christmas ornaments.
19. Make Christmas garland chains.
20. Punch out little shapes (i.e. hearts, flowers, stars, etc.).
21. Cut into thin strips to weave together.
22. Cover wooden clothespins.
23. Frame small photos & put them on the fridge or bulletin board.
24. Make magnets.
25. Create butterfly art on canvas.
26. Adhere to the bottom of clear glass bubbles for magnets or pushpins.
27. Make labels for stuff (like in your pantry or scrapbooking room).
28. Throw them out - ummm.... NO!
29. Make title letters - mix & match for a little extra fun.
30. Decorate a large binder clip to use as a photo or note holder.
31. Mat a photo.
32. Make a bookmark.
33. Cover a small notepad.
34. Gather a cellophane bag full of patterened scraps & give them to a scrapbook friend.
35. Silhouette the design in pattereneed paper.
36. Line the bottom of little gift boxes.
37. Create photo corners.
38. Cover a Scrabble tile (or any other game piece you like) with scraps & glossy accents to make a pendant.
39. Fold scraps to make tabs.
40. Layer strips behind a photo or journaling.
41. Punch circles to make scalloped edges.
42. Staple strips around the edge of the paper.
43. Glue onto larger paper clamps & embellish to make quick picture holders.
44. Cover index cards to make booklets.
45. Accent a pre-made embellishment.
46. Accent a stamped image.
47. Applique' a simple design.
48. Cover blocks of wood for home decor design projects.
49. Decoupage an inexpensive wooden tray/box.
50. Use inside a small photo frame with index photos, or simply frame pretty paper.
51. Create your own stickers - punch out shape & run through a Xyron.
52. Create a 'quilt' on a card, layout, in a frame, on a bag, etc.
53. Make name tags.
54. Write a note on a scrap & put into a special someone's lunch box/bag.

Friday, June 24, 2011

Bachelor's Degree

One way to accoplish something is to set goals.  Goals should be meaningful and realistic.  On May 27, 2011, I signed up to an Independent Consultant with Close To My Heart.  After reviewing the different trainings the company offers, I decided my first goal would be to have my Bachelor's degree before the end of my first month as a consultant.

On Friday, June 24th at around 9pm, I finished the last of my video training sessions for the Bachelor's degree!  I reached my first goal!  Yeah!!!!

It is important to celebrate each goal achieved and then to focus on the next goal. 

Now, onto goal #2: Master's degree. 

Write your goals down.  Put them where you can see them daily.  Share those goals with others so they can encourage you when you are down and challenge you to reach those goals.  What goals do you have?  Are they professional? personal? relational?

Whatever they are, write them down~ How about doing a scrapbook page layout about your goals? 

Happy Scrapbooking & Stamping!

Friday, June 17, 2011

A Few Cards I've Made


Apron Father's Day Card for my brother
Luky Paper Kit


"You're Great" card
Lucky Paper Kit

Rosy Regards - 2nd Generation Technique
Retirement card for our school secretary
 


Sophia and an old novel
 
Lucky Paper Kit

 


Thursday, June 16, 2011

Father's Day

Father's Day is just around the corner and thus another year of celebrating my MOTHER for Father's Day.  On Saturday, I will get to see my brother and his family to celebrate him being a great father.  On Sunday, I get to let my mom know how wonderful she is.  My father chose not to stick around (no sympathies needed, I'm ok with it and he made the choice).  My mom on the other hand, worked very hard, sometimes 2 and 3 jobs, to support my younger brother and me.  She did the duty of both mom and dad.  She was the parent, the friend, the punisher, the kiss-it-where-it-hurts, and the tear wiper.  Never did she complain.  Never did she ask for anything in return. 

As I have gotten older, she has continued to be my biggest fan and supporter.  When I have news to share (good or bad) she is the one I call.  If I need help with something, I turn to her.  She can cook/bake like no one's business, write an amazing story, love, fix the sink, diagnosis pains, ease heart aches, support her community, encourage others, find the best deal, figure out wireless adaptors, and babysit grand kids without breaking a sweat.  She is by far the most talented woman I have ever known. 

With her by my side, I can do anything.  God blessed me more than I deserve when He gave me to her. 

Happy Father's Day MOM!  I love you!

Monday, June 6, 2011

First Day of Summer

Good Morning Everyone! 

Hope you are all enjoying your first day of Summer 2011.  I slept in this morning and it fel to good!  But, now I am up and am so excited to get my blog running. 

About a week ago, I joined Close To My Heart as an Independent Consultant.  I wasn't looking for a home-based business, it just sort of happened.  Here's the story:  In December I was at a friend's house, working on some cards and scrapbook stuff when I saw this catalog.  My friend was working like a little bee and I was a bit on the bored side so I picked up the catalog and started thumbing through.  I have never liked stamps because I couldn't see where I was putting an image and that terrified me.  But Holy Cow ~ these images were see through!  What's the name of this company? And how can I get my hands on these cute stamps? Immediately I asked my friend where she got it and asked if that person was still selling the product. The catalog was the Fall/Winter Idea Book from Close To My Heart and alas, no, the girl was no longer selling the product.  So, I got onto the Close To My Heart website and searched for a consultant. 

I found Sarah, unassuming and very patient.  She invited me over for a crop at her house and I went.  Sarah and two of her sisters were so nice! The walked me through all kinds of tips, tricks, and techniques.  I was hooked right then and there.  So, I placed an order.  And I've been placing an order every month ~ with each month's order getting larger and larger! 

It has been a very long time since I was excited about something.  In fact, my creative juices were flowing so much, I sketch out card designs while my students were doing their assignments.  In May, I noticed that Close To My Heart was having a great sale - 50% off the consultant kit.  HOLY COW 50% OFF!!!  Not only was it 1/2 off, I knew I'd get to choose the three items I wanted, plus I got an extra kit that I already had and loved.  Well, I called up Sarah and said "I think it is time for me to sign up!"  She was as sweet and patient as ever.  I received my consultant kit and I'm so very excited!

Now, I'm an Indpenednt Consultant for Close To My Heart!  I'm ready to start hosting Gatherings and sharing all the fun possibilities of these amazing products!  My first Gathering is coming up, so stay tuned for the details!