101 Ways To Scrap

Tuesday Tutorial - April 2011

2011-04-12T00:00:00.000-07:00

Here's a quick tutorial on how to "de-stick" stamps in order to use them on your pages!

Got an Armoir or Entertainment Center that's going unused?

2011-03-20T07:36:00.001-07:00

Can an Armoir or Entertainment Center be used to store your supplies? According to Scrapbooks, Etc., they sure can! Click HERE to see what they suggest! You can also try using an old china hutch!

Get creative and be sure to add your own touch by painting, staining or antiquing your new storage space!

Hang Up Your Supplies

2011-03-20T07:36:00.000-07:00

Control your punch supplies with an easy hanging system. These 1-foot metal rails from the hardware store are attached to the wall using small hooks. Slide your punchers onto the rail for a simple storage solution.

Brought to you by: Better Homes and Garden

What kind of Scrap Room do you want?

2011-03-20T07:35:00.005-07:00

Have you thought of this? When you decide what kind of space you want to scrap in and then turn it into that, you will find how much easier and peaceful your space is to use. When you're in a happy space, you are in a happy place.

A basement room, an attic room, dining room, black and white, vintage.....you name it! Get some ideas and get to YOUR perfect scrap room! Check out THESE different scrap rooms to get you started!!

While there, check out other storage solutions suggested by Scrapbooks, Etc.

Unmounted Stamps + A Binder

2011-03-20T07:35:00.004-07:00

Keep unmounted stamps in one place with an inexpensive three-ring binder. Store the binder on a shelf for easy access.

Brought to you by: Better Homes and Gardens

Easy Storage for Foam Stamps

2011-03-20T07:35:00.003-07:00

Use black mat board and hook-and-loop tape to create a handy system for foam stamps. Cut the mat board to fit in a sturdy holder such as magazine files or document storage boxes. Then attach the hook-and-loop tape to the stamp and the board, leaving a small space between each stamp.

Brought to you by: Better Homes and Gardens

General Storage

2011-03-20T07:35:00.002-07:00

I not only have the Crop-In-Style XXL Storage Tote, I also have a tool box. YES! A tool box, actually it's the Plano Contractor's Box. I bought it at Menard's (hardware store) in their tool box section for only $40! You can get this exact same storage container in a scrap store for $120+ in color. I opted for the cheaper price and blander colors.

DIMENSIONS:
from Top to Bottom: 32" high
from Front to Back: 10 1/2"
from Left to Right: 18" wide
each of the top 3 drawers: 1 3/4" deep
the bottom compartment: 15 1/2" deep
Top compartment: 3" deep

The big black piece in the front gets put in place when traveling so nothing accidentally opens and spills out. On the right side, it has a place where you can wrap your extension cord for easy transport. On the left side is where you store that same black piece when you're not traveling and are actually using it. It has two wheels on the back for easy moving.

When I flip the lid open I use the lid to hold stuff too. I get almost all my supplies off my work space with this handy little guy and I get more scrapping done too!

DIshwasher Basket Storage

2011-03-20T07:35:00.001-07:00

Now, here's a great way to save some money and have a great place to store your stuff!

...Every scrapbooker needs to be organized, and most scrapbookers wish they could find inexpensive or free methods for storage. Why wouldn't you want to find products that were low cost or found in your own home....

Click HERE for the full story and a wonderfully inexpensive idea!

Store it in your closet!

2011-03-20T07:35:00.000-07:00

Again, Scrapbooks, Etc. has come up with another innovative way to store your much needed supplies!

There are so many ways to store your supplies. In a roller cart, a tote, a table and so many more! Here's just one more you can give a try.

If you have a spare closet, this is perfect for you! If you don't have a spare closet, find one! This is a great way to store and organize for easy use!

Click HERE to see what you can do with an empty closet!

Inexpensive and Creative Storage

2011-03-20T07:34:00.003-07:00

Looking for some inexpensive and creative ways to store your scrapbooking supplies? Scrapbooks, Etc. has some really great ideas! Click HERE to see what they have suggested!

Stickles

2011-03-20T07:34:00.002-07:00

Use self-adhesive Velcro. This is, by far, the best idea I've come across. It's practical and inexpensive.

Simply use the male side, cut it into strips and stick it straight to your wall. I know this might not work for everyone, but you could adhere it to any surface really. I just wanted mine above my desk in an easy to reach spot.

It really makes life easier when these little guys are stored upside down :)

Just cut little strips from the female side of the velcro and stick it on the bottles.

And there you have it :) Super easy, I'm talking minutes, and cheap!

Also, instead of putting the velcro on your wall, you could also try adhering the velcro strip to your tote box. If you have a cloth storage tote, I'm not sure it would work. But, I have this one and it would work great! Just pick a side!

Brought to you by: Two Peas In A Bucket

Brads and Eyelets

2011-03-20T07:34:00.001-07:00

THIS IS MY CHOSEN METHOD:
I have chosen to use those bead containers I'm sure you've seen everywhere. However, through much trial and error, I have found the best container to use in this respect are the ones that are more like the daily/weekly pill boxes (generally found in most pharmacies). Reason being is because in the original, cheap-o version, each section is not individually closed; therefore, you will have eyelets and brads mixing into the other sections, getting them all mixed up.

In these containers, each section has it's own lid and it is "child-proof." Meaning, there's a "trick" to openning each lid. You can't just pop it open. So, there is little to no chance that if you drop this container on the floor that it will pop open and scatter all these tiny little bits everywhere!

You can get this container (or a version of it) in any craft store. Check the cross-stitch section or sewing sections first (the price will, most likely, be less). You can also check your local pharmacy up by the pharmacy counter.

Flowers

2011-03-20T07:34:00.000-07:00

I know most of us use Prima Flowers and tend to store them in their original packaging. Try some of these ideas to change it up.

1. Leave them in their original packaging

2. If you don't care if they're all jumbled together, a Mason jar works wonders

3. Baby food jars

4. You can also try empty spice jars on a lazy susan type thing. I've been told this whole set (jars/spinner) can be found at CVS in the seasonal gifts aisle when they put their Christmas stuff out.

MY CHOSEN METHOD:
Use ziploc baggies for optimum space saving. Place the flowers flat in the baggie and zip 90% of the way. Leave this little opening and squeeze the air out and zip it shut. (This is the method I use and I have aobut 10 different Prima Flower packages in a 6x4x2 space....and I still have room for more!!) This not only is a space saver, but it also makes it easy to tote them around for crops and such.

Buttons

2011-03-20T07:33:00.002-07:00

1. in jars and color coordinated
2. in baggies and color coordinated
3. in a big bowl all mixed together

I HAVE CHOSEN TO USE THIS METHOD:
You can use bead storage containers of all kinds. You just have to find what best suits your purposes. The following picture is what seems to work best for me. Plus, it also keeps me from buying too many buttons!

Cricut Cartridges

2011-03-20T07:33:00.001-07:00

My favorite way to store Cricut Cartridges is to use 3-holed zipper pencil pouches. My favorite ones are the ones I can get at the Dollar Tree or Wal-Mart for $1 each and has a clear window. I insert the overlay, booklet and cartridge in each pouch.

I bundle them up with a side opening key ring (found in most hardware stores). The key rings come in several different sizes.

With this key ring in tact, you can now hang your collection(s) of cartridges from just about anywhere.

ALTERNATIVES to this method:
Instead of bundling them up all together and hanging them from this key ring; some have chosen to use these same pencil pouches, but store them in a 3 ring binder.

Ribbon

2011-03-20T07:33:00.000-07:00

1. Stack your spools on an upright paper towel holder
2. Mount an open-ended towel rack or, for a smaller number of spools, a toilet paper holder
3. Place a tension rod in a closet or between bookshelves
4. Hang a clothesline in a corner
5. Slide a dowel through the holes of a plastic crate or basket

6. Use a tie hanger: Just slide the ribbon through about half way, keeping the same color scheme on each hanger. Then, when you are ready to use one, just pull it out.

7. Old fashioned clothes pins: Place one end of the ribbon in the open center and wrap ribbon around entire pin. Then, you can store each ribbon "spool" in a jar, grouping by color.

8. Store losely in jars by color.

9. One very unique way to store ribbon, but not very handy if you travel to crops and such.

10. Peg-board wire rack baskets (can be found in your local hardware store in the storage department, I think. Obviously, this method can be used only if you have pegboard up on the wall.

11. You can slide a metal, plastic or wood dowel (or tension rod) in a box.

12. Get a large round keyring (found usually in most hardware stores)and some large safety pins. Clip the pin to one end of the ribbon and attach the safety pin to the keyring. Now, you just let it hang. With this keyring, you can hang it from just about anywhere.

13. Bathroom door hanger

14. An old crate or basket with holes. If you use the crate and have a pegboard set up, you can also hang the crate on some pegboard hooks.

MY CHOSEN METHOD:
Since most of my ribbon/threads/fibers don't come on a spool of any kind, I found the best way for my ribbon storage needs is in a thread storage container. This can be found in any department of a fabric shop (like JoAnn's), but the least expensive department is the cross-stitching section.

Brought to you by:

sketchbook.typepad.com

polymerclaynotes.com
everythingetsy.com
ozinthefastlane.blogspot.com
emilygiovanni.com
whoistracy.com
sunflowerstudio.typepad.com
new-memories.com
theeverdayscrapper.com
craftystorage.blogspot.com

Clip-It-Up Style Storage

2011-03-20T07:32:00.000-07:00

From the Scrappy Go Lucky blog:

I have been reorganizing for months within my space, trying to find a solution to my million embellishment chaos. I kept some in binders, some in drawers, and even some on hanging files. While that system did work OK, I wanted to actually have full display of all my packaged products. I considered buying a clip-it-up but.....

Be sure to click on the link above and visit her site for the rest of this story and how she created this great way to store some scrapbook embellies.

The Friday (.cut) Files - 3/18/11

2011-03-18T00:00:00.000-07:00

Dream Bird is my next .cut file for you to use at your leisure!

Click HERE to download this file

If you use this file, please show me what you did with it! Post yoru creation below with a link back to you!

You only have ONE week to upload your creation here. After that, feel free to use the "2011 Layouts" tab.

Cricut Cartridge/Handbook Storage

2011-03-17T07:58:00.000-07:00

WOW! Look at all these great ideas!!!

Found this one on Obsessed With Scrapbooking

This one was on the Cricut Message Boards!

Lucky Girl Jo had this idea!

This is the ScrapOnizer

Scrapbooking Grandma Crafts has this great solution!

This one is at Jamie Lane Designs

You have to check out Dats My Style DJ blog! Check out her scrap room!

Splat Pat using this concept

I found this on the Cricut Message Boards

This one was found at Scrappy Go Lucky

DIscount Storage

2011-03-16T06:28:00.000-07:00

I came across this great website, Scrapbooking Warehouse, that has discount scrapbooking storage! YES! I said discount! That's MY kind of shopping experience, for sure! I don't think I have bought ANY of my scrap supplies at full price!

This place has Crop In Style, Cropper Hopper, All My Memories, EK SUccess and so many more. They have storage for papers, stickers, ribbons, brads...you name it! Go check it out! You may find just what you've been looking for!

Got An Empty Closet? Fill It!!

2011-03-15T15:42:00.000-07:00

Do you have limited space and scrapbooking supplies taking over your house?

Maybe you could turn a spare closet into something like this one. Having everything so neat and organized will make scrapbooking even more fun. Here are a few of my favorite features, and they’re all so easy to do on your own.

Using pegboard can really make the most out a space that’s usually forgotten. Adjustable shelves make things so much easier when you want to change it around a bit later on.

Put every inch of the closet to good use with cork trivets from a kitchen and bath store. They make a fun llittle bulletin board that’s perfect for inspiring ideas. Trivets are thick and can easily be mounted with foam tape.

Hanging folders are a great use of space. Organizing paper by season or color can make it easy to see what you have before you run off to the store to buy more.

Hey, this is a money saving idea here! Now you can explain to your husband how this closet will save money and he should help you do it this weekend!

Some Creative Storage Solutions

2011-03-09T16:40:00.000-08:00

The Everday Scrapper posted a great video on YouTube on some really creative ways to store some of your scrapbooking items. Watch the video and see what you can use!

Tuesday Tutorial - March 2011

2011-03-08T00:00:00.000-08:00

COASTER FLOWERS

Here is another tutorial for you! I hope you enjoy it!

I did another video for you where I completed my coaster flower with a few embellies! Remember, you can always add your own little touches!

I thought i'd treat you to a few additional pix too! My son, Nathan, decided he wanted to make his own coaster flower while I was making mine! Unfortunately, before I got to take a pic, he had already misplaced his project! You would have loved it! Next time, I will just take the pic immediately after we are done.

The Friday (.cut) Files - 3/4/11

2011-03-04T00:00:00.000-08:00

GOTH FRAME

GOTH BACKGROUND

CARTRIDGES USED: Blackletter

Just click on the file title to download!

If you decide to use these files, please link your creation below!

Creative Options - Storage and Organization

2011-03-03T15:35:00.000-08:00

Check out this video on some great storage containers you can use every day and take with you to your next crop!

Click on the video title to view their Yout Tube channel.

Cricut Cartridge Storage

2011-03-02T09:09:00.000-08:00

Okay, I will admit, this isn't the BEST way to store them, BUT it will give you a great startign point. I know that's what it is for me, a starting point. I will eventually get something better, but I just had too many cartridges to continue storing them in my pencil pouches. You can get these little basket organizers at your local dollar store. They are usually 3/$1.

***tear out all the foreign language pages from the booklets. Be sure to keep an eye out on those pages that have english on the other side.
***put your keyboard overlays/booklets together in alphabetical order in your container. i used this little thing, but i'm sure that will change later

***now put your cartridges in the same alphabetic order in another container. again, this one for me is just temporary until i find exactly what i'm looking for

That's it! Like I said, this is just a starting point for me. I plan on thinking of something a little easier to work with, but for now it will do.

I like the alphabetic order thing for sure. I may end up puting the booklets in a binder (without the spiral binding) and using tabs. That's what I really want to do. Eventually I will.

Freezer Paper + Cricut = WOW!

2011-02-28T18:11:00.000-08:00

to use your CRICUT! OMG! You have GOT to check this out. I would NEVER have thought to do this!

Crafty Steals: We're taking you to school this Sunday!: "Good morning Crafty Stealers! We’ve decided to do something new on the Crafty Steals blog. We’re going to start making every Sunday ..."

Personalized Storage

2011-02-24T15:24:00.000-08:00

This is featured over at Kaiser Crafties. . This is just such an awesome idea, I wanted to share it with you. This is created for sewing storage but, I think this could also work for desktop scrapbooking storage as well.

Give it a shot and send me your creation. I will share your completed work along with a link back to our blog and I will also forward it on to Beyond The Page. It is their creation, after all.

Be sure to check out all the other awesome stuff on their blog!!!

Dont' forget, no matter what it is that you use to store all your scrapbook supplies and papers, you can always personalize it. Use your creativity and your supplies and go for it! Let me know what you come up with! I would love to show others your wonderful ideas!

Bling

2011-02-23T18:03:00.000-08:00

There aren't too many different ways you can store these, really, but this is what I have come up with so far.

1. ziploc baggies (the tiny ones for jewelry or the snack size ones)
2. 3-ring binder with baseball card holders (if you have lots of bling)

My Kind Of Scrap Room

2011-02-21T16:23:00.000-08:00

Here is a video I found at Better Homes and Gardens of an awesome basement scrap room. I wish I could have one like this. Although, it probably wouldn't stay that neat.

" So, I think this space uses a great use of creative solutions. It's all about storage, for example, so that if you're doing a craft project, you have trash easily accessible. If you wanna sew, you could bring your sewing machine out here and you can do sewing right out here, a quilt maker. If you're a crafter, if you're a scrapbook maker, you... "

Click HERE for the Video!

The Friday (.cut) Files - 2/18/11

2011-02-18T00:00:00.000-08:00

MEMORIES FRAME

CARTRIDGES USED: Graphically Speaking, Home Decor

Here's an elegant frame for that special picture! Download this file for your project and then link your project to your blog/site below! I would love to see what you did with it!

Cricut Booklet Storage

2011-02-17T04:03:00.000-08:00

I finally figured out what I wanted! I love this! It's so versatile and perfect if you plan on adding to your cricut collection!

Scrapbook Paper Storage

2011-02-14T15:40:00.000-08:00

CHEAP personalized paper storage containers? Yup! It's true and so very easy and possible!

I found this great tutorial on blnken1's You Tube channel. Click on the video title to view her channel

Easy Tub Storage

2011-02-13T00:36:00.000-08:00

Check this out! A great new, easy, inexpensive and fun way to store so much!

Thank you Robin Stamps for this great idea!

Marion's Scrap/Craft Room (aka---scraft room)

2011-02-11T15:49:00.000-08:00

For those of you interested in creating an amazing scrap room to be your creative best, here is a great video of Marion showing off her own scrap room. Be sure to visit her channel, A Piece of Craft, on You Tube! She has some fantastic tutorials and does a lot of LIVE shows too! She is one very talented lady and has a lot of inspiration to share!

This is what I envision MY ultimate scrap room to look like.......one day!

Tuesday Tutorial - February 2011

2011-02-08T00:00:00.000-08:00

I saw this once and it really works well! You will have to use one of the hand-held Dymo Label makers

(like the old fashioned ones).

This video is a tutorial I did a while back, but it seems to have a great response! It's an Oldie but a Goodie!

Supplies needed:

original Dymo label maker

scrap strips of paper (with white core backing) about 3/8" wide

sanding block

Some of these hand held Dymos have different "wheels" which can be interchanged for different fonts and characters. Walmart and Target seem to have had the best selection and best prices. You can also go to an office supply store for a wider selection.

This is also a great way to use up some of those scraps!

Have fun and enjoy!

The Friday (.cut) Files - 2/4/11

2011-02-04T00:00:00.000-08:00

A beautiful Dragonfly Frame for you!

Click HERE to download this file.

Cartridges: Doodlecharms, Stretch Your Imagination

Cricut Design Studio, Tips & Tricks

2011-01-30T15:36:00.000-08:00

One of the blogs I follow, Imagine That!, has jsut posted some fabulous information for all you Design Studio ladies!

Having trouble figuring out welding, contour, mirror image, searching the library, knowing what carts you used, and other stuff? This post will definitely answer those questions for you! Click HERE to read all the tips & tricks!

I'll be honest with you, I don't use Design Studio all that often, because I can't figure a lot of it out. Now, I can't wait to play around even more with Design Studio!

The Friday (.cut) Files - 1/21/11

2011-01-21T00:00:00.000-08:00

Cutie Puppy

Click HERE to download this adorable file!

You will be able to use the solid puppy as a background for the outlined puppy. The flower wreath (in purple) will be laid over the solid wreath. This will give you some dimension.

CARTRIDGES: Pooh & Friends, Paper Pups, Hello Kitty Font

Tuesday Tutorial - January 2011

2011-01-11T00:00:00.001-08:00

I wanted to show you how I created my "free-form" Stickle Flourish on my "So Sweet" layout. You can do this technique directly on your layout or on a separate piece of paper/cardstock. I suggest that until you are more comfortable with this technique, you try this out separate from your layout.

SUPPPLIES NEEDED:

*your template*

it does not have to be the exact same one I used. any template will do so long as you can trace

*a black pen/marker*

one that does not bleed

*stickles*

any color you choose

*your paper*

preferably cardstock as this will not buckle under the pressure of the stickles

Once you have gathered your supplies, you are ready!

Simply, lay your stencil down on your chosen paper and begin to trace

Once you are done, this is what you should see

Now, you are ready to apply your Stickles! Very carefully trace over your black line with the Stickles glue. Be careful not to lay the bottle tip directly on the paper. You want it to hover over the paper just enough to get the stickles out. This will create a ridge and give you dimension.

Once you have complete tracing your drawing this is what you will have! You may need to carefully "go over" some parts with the Stickles to even out the look. Otherwise, you can leave it as is.

Now, the next step is always the hardest! WAIT for it to dry!

Once it's dry, you have a few options. If you didn't apply this directly to your page, but on a separate piece of paper/cardstock, then you can carefully cut around it. You could also use some Liquid Glass to fill in the center. Get creative! Let me see what you do!

The Friday (.cut) Files - 1/7/11

2011-01-07T00:00:00.000-08:00

Time for a little Design Studio .cut File! I hope you like it! Use it as your wish and then post your creation below the post!

Cartridges used: Ashlynn's Alphabet

Click HERE to download this file!

FREE Classes!!

2010-12-17T15:35:00.000-08:00

You want to learn new techniques using stamps, supplies, sketches and 4x6 photos? Two Peas In A Bucket is offering FREE classes to learn more about your passion and make the most of it!

On the 1st of every month: Scrapbook Stamping
with Nichol Magouirk

On the 10th of every month: Products You Love Every Which Way
with Shannon Tidwell

On the 20th of every month: Stretch a Sketch
with Jen Gallacher

On the 30th of every month: 4x6 Photo Love
with Shimelle Laine

Click HERE for more details on each of these FREE classes!

Iris Folding Paper....Where Can I Find??

2010-12-05T07:00:00.000-08:00

An anonymous question was posted to me: "Iris folding paper is hard to find where I am at. Help. I hear that the inside of envelops are a good thing those to hard to find here.Help"

you can buy them online here: http://www.buycheapr.com/us/result.jsp?ga=us1&q=paper+iris+folding

http://haveyourwaywithpaper.myfreeforum.org/about3857.html?sid=78a06ec74fba0545f38363a0a9ba795a

http://www.circleofcrafters.com/irisfolding/

you can also try using left over Christmas paper, oragami paper, or anything that is the same consistency. I would go ahead and try out the envelopes. I would love to see your finished product using them!!! good luck and i hope this helps you out!

Ask me anything

Spice Up Those Boring Stickers

2010-11-14T16:33:00.000-08:00

I found this great idea at Families.com on how to use and spice up those boring flat stickers.

...End of the season sales and discontinued lots are excellent ways to score major savings on scrapbook stickers. That's the good news. The bad news is that some deeply discounted stickers are not exactly the cutest of the bunch...

Click HERE to view to full article!

Fancy Christmas Tree

2010-11-02T18:40:00.000-07:00

FREE .cut file. Click HERE to download!

CARTRIDGES: Christmas, Christmas Cheer, Joys of the Season

The wreath would be hanging on the tip of the tree. "Joy" tag would hang about midway with the background adhered so you could clearly see the word, joy.

As always, please feel free to send me your creations and I will be happy to post it here with a link back to you!

Bracket Frame w/Bird

2010-11-02T17:50:00.000-07:00

FREE .cut file for Design Studio!

Click HERE to download!

Feel free to use it to your hearts content. Send me what you created and I will be happy to post your creation here and add a link back to your site/blog.

CARTRIDGES USED: Home Accents, Home Décor, Storybook

Past & Present

2010-10-20T17:48:00.000-07:00

Click HERE to downlod your FREE .cut file!

CARTRIDGES USED: Hello kitty font, Home décor, Graphically speaking, Wedding

Adding Text and Color to Your Template

2010-09-11T10:16:00.000-07:00

You may not want to use every available spot of your template or want to do something a little different.

Here are a few simple instructions for you to follow.

Insert your pictures following THESE DIRECTIONS.

I hope this tutorial was quick and easy to follow. Play around with these available functions and see what you can come up with!

Altering your Collage Template

2010-09-11T09:20:00.000-07:00

Here are some simple instructions on how to alter the look of your collage template.
For instructions on how to add pictures, click HERE.

Rock On!

2010-08-13T17:21:00.000-07:00

Here is another Design Studio .cut file!

Click HERE to download

CARTRIDGES: Indie Art, Blackletter

Layered Flower

2010-07-28T16:09:00.001-07:00

Please enjoy this quick tutorial on a layered flower!

Beautiful Frame

2010-07-23T15:11:00.000-07:00

Download this frame HERE

Cartridges used: Accent Essentials, Home Decor

Drag/Drop Templates

2010-07-22T11:18:00.000-07:00

I have recently been made aware of online drag/drop collages. I got this collage from Scrapbooks Etc. They have some great tutorials and a wonderful message board for additional questions.

Here is how I was able to create my own collage using PSE 4.0

**************************

Open the template in PSE (or other photo editing software)

Open your chosen pictures

Click on the arrow with the plus sign

Choose Layer; Group With Previous

This will put your picture "inside" the template as such:

Now, you need to resize your picture so it fits nicely within the template.

You will hold down your SHIFT key on your keyboard; place your mouse arrow over a corner of the picture; left click. Hold down both shift AND left clicker as you drag the mouse until your picture is the size you want.

To move the picture within teh template, place your arrow over the center dot of the picture; left click and drag until the picture is properly placed.

Now you can click on the little green arrow to accept

Now go to the left and choose the Marquee tool

Create a box around the part of the picture you want to remove

Click DELETE on your keyboard. This will remove any part of that picture that is within the marquee square.

Continue this process until all your pictures are placed and sized as you like.

When you are finished, click on Layer; Flatten Image. This will group everything together so it is just one single picture. Make sure everything is as you like it.

You can now save your file. Go to File; Save As.

Choose the folder in which you want to save this picture.

Make sure you rename your file as you want.

Don't forget to change your file format to .JPEG

And, there you go! Your completed collage!

Now, you can print this out as you would with all your other pictures. You can send this off to online printing service (Target, WalMart, CVS, Kodak, etc) and choose the size you like. You can print at home too using photo paper and choosing a size that is no bigger than 7.5x11

I hope this helps you do more with your digital programs and photo editing software!

Dragonfly Frame

2010-04-25T11:57:00.000-07:00

Another FUN FREEBIE for you!

Click HERE to download

CARTRIDGES

Doodlecharms, Stretch Your Imagination

Please know.....This file is for your own use ONLY. Please download and use it to our heart's content, share it with your friends.... Please, just be sure to send them back here. Thank you for understanding.

Stained Glass Flower Frame

2010-04-09T18:29:00.000-07:00

Stained Glass Flower Frame

Click HERE to download the file

CARTRIDGES:

Stretch Your Imagination

Please know.....This file is for your own use ONLY. Please download and use it to our heart's content, share it with your friends.... Please, just be sure to send them back here. Thank you for understanding.

Daisy Days

2010-04-09T17:56:00.000-07:00

My first FREE Design Studio cut file! I hope you like it and are able to use it.

Click HERE to download the file

Cartridges: George & Basic Shapes, Mickey Font, Mickey & Friends

ANNOUNCING.......We Have A Web Page!!!

2010-02-02T17:09:00.001-08:00

****THIS POST NO LONGER APPLIES****

*****THE SITE NO LONGER EXISTS*****

Well, actually, it's more like a "social network." The Scrapbook Speedway has it's own ning.com web site!

I created this site so you can chat, get to know eachother better, show off your work and so much more! I have included a section especially for sketches, one for all your work and one just for your cards! You can even chat with other members who are currently online. I also plan to have monthly challenges which may or may not include prizes or giveaways!

As our family grows, so will the site! Which means more challenges, more friends and more opportunities for new creations and ideas!

Pop on over and see what it's all about!

Click HERE to visit!

Dymo Journaling

2010-01-09T07:35:00.001-08:00

I re-filmed this tutorial hoping that it was a little more informative and easier to understand.

Notecard Mini Scrapbook Album

2010-01-08T10:29:00.001-08:00

What a great little gift book! Inexpensive and SO easy! Check out her You Tube video!!

Paperbag Mini Album Tutorial Part 1

2010-01-08T10:26:00.001-08:00

I LOVE this little book! Very cute! She did a tremendous job here and I wanted to share her You Tube video with you. I really want to try this out! Be sure to check out the rest of this series too!

This would be a great little gift for someone. And, I would like to think, it wouldn't take too awful long to put together!

A new kind of paper bag book

2010-01-08T10:21:00.001-08:00

I saw this on You Tube and HAD to share it with you! This is such a creative twist on the traditional paper bag book! ENJOY!

Get The MOST out of your Digi-Kit

2010-01-02T14:38:00.000-08:00

Lollipop Cards

2010-01-02T06:22:00.000-08:00

This is such a wonderful idea! A great way to use up scraps too! I wish I could tae credit for this, but I can't. This came from Scrapbooks.etc Feb 2010 issue.

To cook up this delicious design, layer a punched circle over a scalloped circle with adhesive foam. Attach the circles to the fron tof the plastic-wrapped lollipop, add another scalloped circle to the back and embellish. Use an adhesive dot to secure the ribbon leaves.
I was going to do this for my son's class, but decided to make a flower boquet for his teacher instead!

Make Your Own Clear Embellishments

2010-01-01T08:28:00.000-08:00

Yes you can!! Jamie from JuJu Bee's Scrapbook Corner has this amazing idea to create your own clear embellishments. I would have never thought to do this!!

The following information was taken from her post at JuJuBee's Scrapbook Corner:

I just love using all the fabulous clear/acrylic products on the market but sometimes I can't find exactly what I need, so I am going to show you how I make them myself at home!
The first step is to save the clear plastic packaging that many products are packed in. (What a great way to recycle as well:-)

One easy and fast way to make your own clear embellishments is to simply punch it out.

Another way to create a shape is to simply draw it and cut it out.

If you have a die cut machine, that is another option. In this example, I used my cuttlebug and just used the clear plastic in place of paper to create my butterfly. Depending on the thickness of your plastic, you may have to use your scissors to cut some of it out.
You can even emboss your clear diecut after!
Another option is to use stamps with staz-on ink (I used both white and black staz-on) and then cut the image out.

Here are all the embellishments all cut out and ready for use! I also included my layout where I used the large, clear embossed butterfly! I hope you give this a try, if you haven't already, and then load your projects in our gallery!

Make Your Page Pop with Chipboard + more!!

2010-01-01T08:20:00.000-08:00

Check out this great tutorial from Kristin at JuJuBee's Scrapbook Corner. It's a great tutorial on combining chipboard, heat embossing, inking, cardstock, stamping and modge podge for a really AWESOME effect!!!

Leaf Embossing

2009-12-12T18:31:00.000-08:00

Okay. So I had to play with my new heat tool.

Heat Embossing, Take 1

2009-12-12T16:06:00.000-08:00

Okay. So, you've always wanted to try heat embossing for yourself. You thought you'd give it a try and see if your hairdryer would do the trick......um.....yeah.....NO.

Here's a video showing you WHY!

Basic Heat Embossing Pt 1

2009-12-10T17:59:00.001-08:00

Technique: Emboss Resist - Style I

2009-12-10T17:50:00.001-08:00

Distressing Resist Stamping

2009-12-10T17:44:00.001-08:00

Bleached Stamps

2009-11-29T15:18:00.000-08:00

Here is a great video showing you how to create some unique stamped images using bleach. As always, please be careful when using bleach. Take all precautions. If needed, try this technique AWAY from your scrapping area. Should you have any mishaps, at least you won't ruin any projects.

Fun Folded Card

2009-11-04T16:48:00.000-08:00

tomshakj posted a video on YouTube on a unique card. Check out the video!!

Tag Art

2009-11-04T16:45:00.000-08:00

Hot Off The Press posted a cool video on YouTube on tag art! This is so cool. Some really cool ideas here!

Want That Cool Crackle Look?

2009-11-04T16:32:00.000-08:00

Well, now you can have it! Tammy Mitchell posted a great tutorial on YouTube on how to create this cool look on your own pages!

Heat Embossing

2009-11-04T16:26:00.000-08:00

Ever wanted to try it? Well, now you can watch this video and learn how! I found this great tutorial video on YouTube created by alidalis!

Paper Piecing for a Whole Year

2009-11-04T15:59:00.000-08:00

Scrapbooks Etc has some easy, downloadble patterns for an entire year!
Check it out HERE!

Below are just a few samples of what you can make!

Have Fun With Blender Pens

2009-10-04T12:23:00.000-07:00

Woo-Hoo! I've been wondering how to use these cool pens, but just now found a tutorial. I found this video on ChicknScratch's video blog!

The Original Crop-A-Dile

2009-10-04T12:20:00.000-07:00

Wanna know how to use the original Crop-A-Dile before you go out and buy one? Well, MadScapperGirl has show us how easy it is to use this versatile tool!

The Crop-A-Dile II

2009-10-04T12:15:00.000-07:00

If you have never heard of this great tool or aren't sure what it's all about or how to use it, this video is for you!

Thank you Scrapbook Dot Com for this great video!

A Plethera Of Techniques

2009-10-04T12:06:00.001-07:00

Check out this amazing video where Jennifer McGuire shows off a handful of wonderful techniques.

Thanks Jennifer for the wonderful tutorial!

Xyron Creatopia!

2009-09-18T15:25:00.001-07:00

WOW! Now those are families I could learn to love pretty quickly!

Quickutz Epic 6 with CuttleBug or Sizzlits

2009-09-17T17:25:00.000-07:00

Wanna know how to use these together? Check out this VIDEO from scrapbook.com and learn how!

Color Matching Made Easy!

2009-09-16T17:07:00.000-07:00

Oh my!! My friend, Jenny, from Have Your Way With Paper gave us all this incredible link!

You upload a photo, and not only does it show you a great color scheme to use with that photo, but it gives you suggestions for ACTUAL products to use for a page! AWESOME!

Click HERE to give it a try! Thanks Jenny!!!

Create a Digital Ribbon

2009-09-16T16:10:00.000-07:00

Scrapbook Memories has a great way to make your own 'ribbon.'

The most realistic ribbons, strings, and twine we have found are scanned or photographed elements. A scanned ribbon looks just like the real thing and gives your page a look of authenticity and without the bulk. The ribbon color can be changed by clicking on Enhance | Adjust Color | Adjust Hue/Saturation (Ctrl U) and adjusting the sliders.

If you cannot find the perfect ribbon to scan or photograph, you may need to create one digitally. To create digital Grosgrain ribbon, just follow these easy steps:

For step-by-step instructions, as well as sample pictures, click HERE.

Canvas Patches Become Flowers

2009-09-16T15:50:00.000-07:00

Pink Paislee has a great idea on turning canvas patches into cute and simple little flowers.

The following is a picture tutorial Pink Paislee has supplied for their written tutorial on their website. For details on how this process works and for more ideas using this technique, be sure you visit their website!

Basic Techniques For Vellum

2009-09-15T16:56:00.000-07:00

Vellum papers add a unique touch to any album page. From formal wedding and anniversary photos to frosty winter wonderland layouts, vellum can transform solid papers and customize patterned paper.

Because vellum is such a specialty paper, there are tricks to working with it. Vellum is not as porous as your other scrapbooking papers, so adhesives and inks won’t be absorbed as quickly. And because vellum paper is so transparent, most adhesive will show through. Once you know the tricks, you’ll find that creating wonderful vellum pages is pretty easy.

A few tips:

Handle with care. Vellum is beautiful because it is so delicate. And because it’s so delicate, it also requires special attention. As with any light–colored paper, smudges and creases show up more easily than on dark paper; vellum will be protected if stored inside the book it came in or in a file folder.

Picking Paper. When selecting paper to place under a white vellum overlay, choose the brightest patterns and colors. These will show up more clearly than a pale or very dark color. White vellum is also perfect for softening a paper pattern that’s too bright for your photo.

Pastel vellum transforms solid and patterned papers—slip a few different papers under your colored vellum sheet to discover just how many dramatic looks there are. Part of the fun of working with vellum is the delight of finding just the right combination, so play and experiment with your papers to see what you like best.

Vellum for journaling. Vellum provides a wonderful journaling option, as it allows for perfect tracing. Simply lay the sheet of vellum over the alphabet you want and trace with a pen. Because vellum isn’t as porous as regular paper, the ink often “sits” on top. Try journaling with Zig Writers, Sakura pens, Zebra’s Jimnie Gel Rollerball and Pentel Gel Rollers. Whatever you do, always let the piece dry for a few minutes before working with it.

For an extra-special effect, color with chalk, markers or colored pencils on the reverse side of a sheet of white vellum. Chalks and colored pencils will give a soft, muted look, while markers can produce a stained-glass effect.

Vellum and computer printers. Yes, you can run vellum through a computer printer. Just be sure to let the ink dry for a few minutes before handling. And if you’re printing multiple sheets, be sure to remove the vellum from the tray after printing.

Tearing vellum. Vellum can be torn for really beautiful borders. Torn vellum lends a soft look to a page. Go ahead, try it!

My favorite use. One of my favorite ways to use vellum is to mat my photos with it. I mat my photo onto a solid paper, then onto vellum—this time, I cut the border a bit larger so the vellum shows up. Then I place the matted photo onto the background paper, applying adhesive only behind the photo. It gives an extra-special look to special pages.

Brought to you by: LeNae Gerig from Scrapbooking 101

Spiral Flowers Are A Hit

2009-09-15T09:37:00.000-07:00
Ashley, from Have Your Way With Paper, forwarded us a link for some cool spiral flowers.

Here are the instructions:
1.) Draw a spiral on a 4×4” piece of paper. You can vary the size of your end product by changing the size of the paper. As well, the tighter the spiral, the more layers the end product will have

2.) Cut out the spiral along the lines. I’ve seen these also made with wavy lines, by tearing the spiral out, and you could even try deco scissors for a different look.

3.) Place a glue dot on the outside end of the spiral and begin rolling from the outside. The glue dot will help the flower to not unravel.

4.) Keep rolling until the end. The last bit sometimes doesn’t want to go so I just cut it off. Let go of the flower and work the layers a bit. Put a glue dot on the end of the flower to keep it from unraveling.

5.) The finished flower!

For added texture, try ripping the paper instead of cutting and use a little inking and see what you get.

Here's the tutorial on these awesome flowers. If you attempt this technique, please share your work here and on the blog where the tutorial is shown. Thank you!

Watercoloring in Scrapbooking

2009-08-10T17:00:00.000-07:00
One technique in scrapbooking is using watercolors. This is a technique I have yet to master, but want to try and play with it.

This tutorial was found on You Tube from 'scrapwithshelby'. It shows you how to use the Pearlescent watercolor pallette from the CK Scrapbooking Convention.

Hate Using Plain Ol' Chipboard?

2009-08-01T18:51:00.000-07:00
Cover it! Yup, just cover it!

Now, you can cover chipboard with just about anything you can think of, so long as you use the right adhesive. But I'm going to give you some instructions I found in the July 2008 issue of Scrapbooks Etc on how to cover your chipboard with tissue paper!

Cover That Chipboard With Thread?

2009-08-01T18:35:00.000-07:00
Yup! That's right! There are so many different ways you can embellish your title. You don't have to just leave it plain and use it how it comes. Get creative! Think outside the box!

Ronee Parsons of Olympia, Washington did just that! She used embroidery thread. Check out this creative layout she made. I've also included a list of the supplies she used to make this sweet layout.

If you're not sure what that is exactly, that's the thread you would use for cross-stitching. You can find the embroidery thread in yoru local craft store in the stitching section where they have all the cross stitching things. You'll be surprised how many different colors you have to choose from.

I'll be honest, this wasn't something I would have ever thought of on my own, but I was looking through the April 2007 issue of Memory Makers magazine and I was so excited!

Here are the three simple steps for creating a unique title.

Have You Seen An Altered Clipboard?

2009-08-01T18:15:00.000-07:00
Well,if you haven't yet, you are now! Check out this amazing "memory Clipboard" by Laura Nicholas in Beaverton, Oregon. I found this in teh April 2007 issue of Memory Makers magazine. Sometimes, it can be difficult to use flowers for a male-themed layout or altered item, but Laura did a remarkable job!

Here's a list of the supplies she used to create this great work of art.

Want the directions? Well, you got them! Remember, if you can't read the print, just click on the picture andyou should get a much bigger view.

Wanna Distress Your Edges?

2009-08-01T18:05:00.000-07:00
Here's one easy way to just that! In the April 2007 Memory Makers issue, Brooke Bartimioli from Hayden, Idaho created this awesome layout! She used several wonderful techniques; one of which was edge distressing.

Here is a list of the supplies she used to create this awesome work of art:

Follow these three steps to distress YOUR edges!

Using Water Color Pencils

2009-08-01T17:48:00.000-07:00
Using water color pencils is not easy when you're not sure what you need to do. I should know. I've messed up a stamped image or two (or more) because I had no idea what I was doing.

Well In the April 2007 issue of Scrapbooks Etc. I found this great demonstration. Now, I'm one of those people that needs to SEE how something works to understand it. So, I really hope this helps you out!

If you can't read the print on the picture very well, just click on the picture for a much larger view.

Pens & Markers 101

2009-08-01T17:41:00.001-07:00
I found this guide to pens and markers in an old Scrapboks Etc. magazine. Check it out! It's from the April 2007 issue!

Be sure to click on the picture for a much larger and clearer view.

Auto Correct The Lighting In Your Picture

2009-07-19T17:17:00.000-07:00
Clicking on the Demo Picture will enlarge it so you can see it more clearly.

Open your picture in PSE (I am using PSE 3.0)
Crop it to your liking
Click on ENHANCE
Then pick AUTO SMART FIX

If the coloring still seems a bit off:
You can click on ENHANCE
Then ADJUST LIGHTING
Then BRIGHTNESS/CONTRAST

(I used brightness/contrast because I took it with too much light – you will use whatever is more fitting to our picture/preference)

Then you will slide the brightness or contrast levels around until you get the effect you want

You can also use this feature to create your own background page with picture intact. Just slide the brightness and contrast to extremes

When you are satisfied with your project, don’t forget to go to FILE and SAVE AS

Make it Yourself!

2009-07-07T16:28:00.000-07:00
When wanting shaped papers and or Diecuts I always buy one and trace the pattern on back of the cardstock or paper that I want the shape on then cut it out.Always keep a pattern so when you can't find that certain shape in the pattern or color you want you make your own.
Also If you see a great pattern paper that has pictures you like Cut them out glitter them up and you have a instant Embellishment..

Brought to you by: Scrapbook Deals 4 U

Pens & Markers

2009-07-06T19:15:00.000-07:00
Whether you’re labeling a gift, writing a journal entry, or decorating a handcrafted card, using the best writing instrument for the job will give you creative options and polished results. Different types of ink and tip sizes are just some of the variables to consider when working with pens and markers. This guide will help you choose the ones that best suit your purpose.

Information Provided By: Michael's

100+ Ways To Use Your Sizzix

2009-07-06T19:12:00.000-07:00
1. Use Sizzix to make fabulous titles on your school projects.

2. Make a scavenger hunt and mark the spots with Sizzix letters or shapes.

3. Label items in your house to help your children with word recognition. (This is also a great way to learn a new language for your upcoming trip to a foreign country.)

4. Make a felt board and die cut felt shapes to tell felt board stories.

5. Make a fishing game for your child's next birthday party.

6. Cut flowers with a hole in the center out of tissue and have kids make Hawaiian leis at a birthday party.

7. Cut geometric shapes and roll them up to make cool paper beads to use on any crafting project.

8. Glue a collage onto your children's furniture to make a one of a kind room.

9. Make dress up dolls for your kids (and the rest of the neighborhood too.)

10. Glue themed die cuts onto colored dowel rods and stick them in a pot or vase to use as a centerpiece.

11. Use the alphabets to make posters for your for sale or yard sale signs.

12. Sew two doll shapes together to make finger puppets.

13. Die cut Shrink Plastic and color to make earrings, necklaces, bracelets and charms. Tie these around the gift of a bottle of wine, or your cocktail glasses to differentiate who's glass is who's.

14. Die cut fabric to make personalized Christmas stockings (complete with names.), tree skirts, and ornaments to decorate your home with for the holidays.

15. Personalize your child's lunchbox or bags.

16. Make seasonal wall hangings, pillows or table runners to decorate your home or give as handmade gifts of the heart.

17. Die cut magnets from all your favorite Sizzix shapes. Fill the center holes with photos.

18. Make magnet birthday frames from any Sizzix frame, and fill it with the birthday boy or girl's photo during the month of their birthday.

19. Iron fusible bonding onto the back side of your fabric, then die cut. Iron these shapes onto your kids' pants, shorts, skirts and tops or t-shirts to make darling, custom clothing. This idea works well to personalize canvas bags and backpacks too.

20. Give the gift of Sizzix. Your friends will LOVE you.

21. Make personalized cards and gift bags for all of your gift giving. People really notice the difference.

22. Die cut your cardstock on the fold to make cute shaped cards and tags.

23. Die cut thin metals and foils. They look embossed.

24. Fold paper several times and place between the cutting blades to create accordion style cards.

25. Cut rubber and mount on wooden blocks to create your own rubber stamps. You can easily make a stamp with your family's name, or a phrase you often use for mass producing your own custom greeting cards.

26. Make themed goodie bags for birthday parties.

27. Make name tags for your next baby or bridal shower or mixer.

28. Create monogrammed stationary for yourself or your friends. They'll think of you each time they write a note.

29. Cut double sided tape, and dip into beads or glitter for a 3-D shimmery shape.

30. Make a chore chart, personalized for your child with his or her specific chores.

31. Make a calendar with your children to give to the grandparents for a special end of the year treat.

32. Die cut a shape to use as a tag tied to a gift bag with the recipient's name on it.

33. Decorate all of your letters and envelopes for the appropriate occasion or holiday.

34. Make your own Christmas cards.

35. Make your own baby announcements.

36. Make your own shower or graduation announcements.

37. Decorate your very own gratitude journal to remind you of what you're thankful for every day.

38. Make fabulous scrapbook pages.

39. Cut poly foam to create your own foam shapes. Attach these to visors, sandals and crafting projects.

40. Cut compressed sponge to make tubbie toys for your kids. Teach them their A B C's while you wash the dirt away.

41. Use Sizzix shapes to decorate your picture frames.

42. Use the circles to create tags from any material in any color. Try using metallic paper or thin metal for the outer circle. It'll look exactly like a more expensive, pre-made tag.

43. Cut shapes from white cardstock and let your kids use them to color on instead of a coloring book.

44. Use the negative shapes as photo frames.

45. Layer and rotate 2 or 3 flowers on top of each other to create 3-D flowers.

46. Make custom kitchen towels by appliquéing fabric shapes onto plain towels. Blanket stitch around each image to secure. These make super seasonal gifts, and really celebrate festivity.

47. Use the Sizzix Machine to cut thin cork for dimensional shapes.

48. Cut shapes from clear plastic (like page protectors) and back them with paper cut from the same shape. Sew them together, placing confetti or buttons inside to make your own shaped shaker cards and tags.

49. Cut a jumbo tag (folding before the bottom cutting blade), and fold bottom up and top over to make a cute little purse. Try this using Terrifically Tacky Tape to create little beaded purses.

50. Personalize school binders and book covers.

51. Organize and label your drawers and storage containers. Imagine having all of your boxes labeled in your garage.

52. Use the smaller shapes as confetti that can sprinkle out of your cards and letters.

53. Place shapes inside clear glass ornaments for your Christmas tree. Try tying a few around the top of each ornament with fibers too.

54. Make great borders for cards and scrapbook pages.

55. Decoupage on anything using all your favorite shapes.

56. Teachers, use Sizzix to make personalized welcome signs on your new student's desks.

57. Create fun door decorations to surprise anyone on a special day.

58. Have your kids make their own my room signs for their doors.

59. Make a growth ladder chart to record how fast your kids are growing.

60. Use vellum to make great fairy and dragonfly wings.

61. Use the negative shapes around letters that you cut to create fun, boxed letter titles.

62. Die cut dozens of hearts and stick them to your sweethearts car on Valentine's day.

63. Die cut seasonal greetings and make banners to hang in your window throughout each year.

64. Make a giant calendar and give it as a gift to a coworker going on holidays or retirement. Decorate each day with a different die cut symbolizing fun things to do.

65. Use die cut letters to label storage bins for easy identification.

66. Make a bouquet of die cut flowers and give them as a gift to anyone. For an especially sweet touch, die cut daisies and write she/he loves me on every petal in the bouquet.

67. Die cut your own deck of memory-match cards. Make two cards with each die cut design on them, mix them up, deal them out and see if your memory is able to match all the pairs.

68. Die cut starfish shapes out of Terrifically Tacky Tape and dip them into sand. Hide them in your child's sand box for an afternoon adventure.

69. Die cut different sizes of circles and label them all as different coin values to help your kids learn how to count money.

70. Die cut a birthday or congratulatory greeting and adhere it to a friend's windshield.

71. Cut stars from wood veneer and paint with glow in the dark paint. Adhere to the ceiling of a child's room for a night time constellation.

72. Die cut shapes out of black and adhere them to dowel rods or straws. Use them to have a shadow puppet show.

73. Die cut different themed shapes and play guess what at a party with them. Blindfold the participants and whoever guesses the most correct shapes is the winner.

74. Die cut different themed shapes and play a memory game at a party with them. Show all the participants all of the shapes for 30 seconds and then hide them again. Whoever remembers the most shapes is the winner. Try this game at a baby shower with baby themed shapes.

75. Glue two symmetrical die cut shapes to the top of a pen or pencil. Make themed pencil toppers for a party.

76. Make fake spots for your dog and dress him up as a dalmation at Halloween.

77. Cut several squares, retangles or circles to make your own little mini books. These work great to dangle over the spine of your memory book to differentiate the theme or year of the album.

78. Make shaped bookmarks with dangly tassels to give to a special friend along with a treasured book.

79. Press little reindeer tracks in the snow at Christmas time using the circle with hoof like triangles cut out of them.

80. Decorate inexpensive craft paper to make your own fabulous custom wrapping paper. Just die cut compressed sponge and dip in paint, or stencil inside the negative outer shape.

81. Try making tiny beaded books out of any shape for a miniature keepsake.

82. Cut wood veneer or fine paper to unify a room's decor. For example, die cut lots of lovely hearts from hand made paper to match a romantic decor. Hot glue these to the ends of curtain rods, or cording to be used for tie-backs, or baskets, or even to the wall as a border at the top of the wall or at chair rail height. This works for themed party décor as well.

83. Die cut shapes and titles and make plant markers for your garden. Laminate your shapes to make them extra durable. What a fun way to memorize plant names, and remember what you've planted.

84. Let your kids use die cut shapes to design their own place mat. Laminate when you are finished for a long lasting treasure.

85. Die cut confetti shapes and themed shapes and sprinkle them onto a table to add festivity to any occasion. Cut some shapes out of foil for an even more festive look.

86. Cut large Sizzix shapes from cork board and adhere to the wall in a straight line or in a design, for a cork-board strip to pin up notes or children's art work.

87. Thinly roll out Makin's No Bake Clay using a rolling pin, and let dry for a day or so. Now use Sizzix to cut all sorts of clay shapes for cards, scrapbook pages or crafting projects.

88. Die Cut your own bumper stickers.

89. Make paper dog tags for your stuffed animals.

90. Make your own wine labels for your friends.

91. Create a paper bag luminaria. Just place your paper bag around your replacement cutting mat, and die cut seasonal shapes in the top center of your paper bag. Now the light from your candle will shine out of the shaped hole. Line them up and down your walkway to celebrate the season.

92. Make paper masks for parties and plays.

93. Make kid's games such as pin the tail on the dinosaur or pin the tail on the donkey.

94. Cut out lots of small shapes to use as gift bag filler. This will really add to the theme of your gift.

95. Die cut shapes and use them outside as a pattern for side walk chalk. Your children will make masterpieces.

96. Cut lots of shapes out of vellum and overlap them on your page to make a soft, collage background.

97. Cut lots of little squares and make your own mosaic. (This also works with other small shapes.)

98. Use the negative outline template from your die cut to place over cakes, cookies, cupcakes and other desserts to use as a mask for sprinkling powdered sugar. Gently lift the template and you've got gorgeous desserts with shaped powdered sugar designs.

99. Use the alphabets to create your own word search puzzle for your kids. Use letters to make a cute background for a scrapbook page, or a fun invitation. Place vellum over the words you'd like to highlight.

100. Use shrink plastic and any large frame to shrink into tiny frames. Apply magnet material to the backs and use these as fridge magnets or gifts for family members. (Remember to decorate with color before shrinking.)

101. Use shapes and numbers to create customized clocks to coordinate with your home decor or to give as gifts.

102. Make your own paper buttons using the circle die. Hole punch the desired configuration, thread with string, and you've got flat buttons you can use on your scrapbook pages. Stack several circles on top of one another to create 3-D buttons, or emboss with clear embossing powder for a shiny button.

103. Cut the entire Paper Doll Set to use with shrink plastic to make your own tiny doll sets. (Be sure to include all the animals, accessories and toys.) You could even poke holes in them before drying to create a My friends and Me charm bracelet. What a fabulous gift for children to make and give to a friend on their birthday.

104. Cut smaller shapes from thin metals to create your own charms.

105. Accessorize the Jumbo Traditional Tag into a shirt and tie for a Father's Day card.

106. Make shoe toppers by using leather or poly foam to cut out decorations. PaddlePunch with the Lace punch for laces to go through.

107. Make your own coasters: Use cork for bottom, and foam for top (punch two and adhere together).

108. Let your kids make their own holiday placemats using Sizzix shapes. Let them color with markers or chalks. It'll keep 'em busy while you finish that fabulous dinner, and make a fun and memorable table setting as well. Be sure to laminate before using for durable treasures you can use again and again.

109. Bath fun decals: Use with poly foam to make clings for the bathtub. When wet, these will temporarily stick to the sides of the tub/walls.

110. Cutting shapes out of compressed sponge and using them as little washcloths makes bath time cleaning fun.

111. Make your own hand-made air fresheners: Use thick cardstock or tag board to cut shape out. Place in baggie with scented oil dabbed on cotton balls and let sit for 24 hours. Punch hole in top and add cute ribbon. Hang these anywhere, and use them as gifts as well.

112. Make custom hair accessories to go with any outfit by using leather, fun foam, etc. to cut shapes out of and attach to scrunchies, elastics, barrettes, etc. Try cutting the center of the flower out, and looping your ponytail through it.

113. Magnetic letters: Punch alphabet out of magnetic sheets for great refrigerator letters for school or home.

114. Candle decorations: You can use heavy tissue paper to make cutouts for candles. Decoupage on candles for beautiful decorations and centerpieces. These also make wonderful hostess gifts.

115. Create easily identifiable luggage by die-cutting your name from a Sizzix alphabet and attaching it to your suitcase with packing tape. Try using smaller letters and Sizzix Jumbo Tags to make your own custom luggage tags. Laminate for durability.

116. Teachers can use Sizzix for letter association, calendar pieces, math skills, bulletin boards, etc.

117. Die cut shapes from Terrifically Tacky Tape and attach them to a candle votive. Use microfine glitter and micro mosaic beads to cover the candle, creating a spectacular beaded centerpiece or gift.

118. Die Cut shapes out of fun foam and piece them together to make fun summer glasses or headbands.

119. Make your own special deck of cards.

120. Create custom recipe cards containing your special family recipes. Print your recipe onto your choice of die cuts, and tie onto a package of homemade cookies.

121. Create themed place cards for your next dinner, party, baby shower or bridal shower. These would be perfect for holidays, too.

122. Send look-alike paper doll thank you cards that your friends will never forget.

123. Cut out Sizzix shapes from wallpaper and apply to walls in intervals to create a lovely and unique border.

124. Use the Sizzix foot die to create a trail through the house leading to a surprise. Try using green feet leading to a pot of gold (your child's favorite cereal), or tiny pink or blue feet to lead your husband to a positive home pregnancy test.

125. Create paper appliques on cards and scrapbook pages by stuffing die cut shapes with cotton batting, then stitching around the shape with a 1/4" seam allowance to create a quilted look.

126. Use paper that is sticky on one side (sticker paper or adhesive sheets), to cut out with Sizzix. Sprinkle with embossing power and heat with an embossing gun. You'll have a shiny embossed shape.

127. Cut a sheet of the squares, hearts, or circles, then layer them starting with the largest and ending with the smallest shape. Add a foam adhesive in between for a 3-D accent.

128. Die cut a square or circle and add an Alphabitty to the middle of it. Emboss with clear embossing powder to create a shiny alphabet tile.

129. Use photos of flowers, grass or rocks to cut Sizzix flowers, grass and rocks to create interesting realistic accents on projects.

Information Provided By: Michael's

Alphabet Stickers Used Twice

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When you buy a sheet of alphabet stickers, be very careful when removing them so as not to damage the area around the sticker. When the letter stickers are removed, there is a color border left over that matches the sticker used. Once you have used the most popular letters, cut the background into small squares, or various shapes, leaving the colored outline of the letter in each block. Now you have a whole new set of alphabet stickers!

Journaling on Small Vellum

2009-07-06T19:09:00.001-07:00
Here's a nifty trick for successfully printing on smaller pieces of vellum or scraps of cardstock. Print your text onto a sheet of plain letter-size paper. Now adhere a small piece of vellum or transparency over the text with removable tape, adhering only edges that will feed into the printer first. Return the paper to the printer and print the text again. You're guaranteed to have perfectly lined up text on a small piece of vellum or transparency.