One of the most versatile tools offered in the Close to My Heart Idea Book and Catalog is the
1 1/4" circle punch. Take a look at this video to see some really cute ideas on how to personalize your projects with circles!
Friday, May 31, 2013
Thursday, May 30, 2013
Pajama Party
Tonight is the night for the Pajama Party at BigPictureClasses.com. Log on at 8 p.m. CDT to share in demonstrations, chats and the opportunity to download project ideas. This class is free and is sponsored by Close to My Heart. Take a look at this flyer for details. Hope to see you there!
Monday, May 27, 2013
Last week for Dream Pop!
It's the last week of May and after the 31st, Dream Pop will no longer be available. Tonight I am showing you a couple more cards that I have made with Dream Pop. I'm still heading for that scrap bin and keep finding ways to make my cards "pop" (sorry, I couldn't resist that!) with the bright cheerful colors.
Remember, this 24-page paper kit is available for only $10.00 with a $35.00 purchase now through May 31st. Visit my website or contact me to order!
Friday, May 24, 2013
Customizing Studio J
I hope you have had a chance to play with Studio J. Do you like what you have seen so far? Today, I have a video that gives an overview of how to love your Studio J layouts even more by adding photo wells and changing the size of those wells to customize the pattern to your liking.
A feature I particularly like is shown near the end of the video. By choosing the "No Limits" pattern, you will be able to alter pictures to the odd sizes sometimes shown on patterns you are using in your traditional scrapbooking. Because you are designing in a 12x12 format, more pictures will print on a page and at $6.95 per two page layout, Studio J is more economical than other mail services or your local store.
As always, I am here to answer your questions. If you would like a hands-on demonstration, please contact me to set up a time.
Have a wonderful Memorial Day weekend,
Sue
A feature I particularly like is shown near the end of the video. By choosing the "No Limits" pattern, you will be able to alter pictures to the odd sizes sometimes shown on patterns you are using in your traditional scrapbooking. Because you are designing in a 12x12 format, more pictures will print on a page and at $6.95 per two page layout, Studio J is more economical than other mail services or your local store.
As always, I am here to answer your questions. If you would like a hands-on demonstration, please contact me to set up a time.
Have a wonderful Memorial Day weekend,
Sue
Tuesday, May 21, 2013
Express Collection--Studio J
Today I am sharing a video presented by Brian of Close to My Heart. He will give you an overview of how to use the Express Collection in Studio J. So easy!
Sunday, May 19, 2013
Let's Talk Digital with Studio J
So far, I have shown you some cards and layouts that I have created with Close to My Heart. This week I am going to show you how you can create scrapbook layouts on your computer without ever touching paper and scissors. Studio J, Close to My Heart's online scrapbook design software is perfect for anyone who wants to preserve photographic memories, but just does not have time, space or desire to do traditional scrapbooking. Here are a couple Studio J layouts I created after our mission trip to Joplin this past winter:
The first layout is from the Express Collection in Studio J. It is a perfect place to start; you will be creating beautiful layouts right from the beginning. For the second layout, I chose my digital paper kit and pattern from the large selection provided for both. The logos at the bottom do no appear on the prints.
Because Studio J is an online system, there is no charge to you until you are satisfied with your layout and decide to purchase. A two page layout printed on photo paper is only $6.95 plus shipping!
Enough of my yapping. Got a few minutes? Click on the Studio J link on the right and see for yourself what it is all about. Log in to my blog this week to see in what other ways Studio J can work for you!
Saturday, May 18, 2013
National Armed Forces Day
Ok, I did not really know it was National Armed Forces Day until I saw it on the Google home page today. However, I had been thinking about Memorial Day and already had pictures for this page printed and the papers picked out. So today say "Thanks" to all the servicemen and women and all the veterans you know. And on Memorial Day, attend your local Memorial Day Ceremony to honor the veterans who have passed. It is our privilege and honor to be able to do so.
These veterans are Henry and Ken Bruch, my brothers-in-law and yes, they are twins. They both served in the Marines in Vietnam. They are both active members of the American Legion. I am grateful for their service to our country.
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On a lighter note, I am shouting out to my daughter and her scrapping friends. They are having a scrapbooking, card making, crafting, Blackhawks, snacking and laughing afternoon. We have shared some pictures of our creations, so I guess for me, it is a virtual crop! I'm just sorry I am missing the snacks!
Patterned paper retired Close to My Heart
Letters cut on my Cricut with the Artiste cartridge and stars cut with the Art Philosphy cartridge
Until later,
Sue
These veterans are Henry and Ken Bruch, my brothers-in-law and yes, they are twins. They both served in the Marines in Vietnam. They are both active members of the American Legion. I am grateful for their service to our country.
+Layout.jpg)
On a lighter note, I am shouting out to my daughter and her scrapping friends. They are having a scrapbooking, card making, crafting, Blackhawks, snacking and laughing afternoon. We have shared some pictures of our creations, so I guess for me, it is a virtual crop! I'm just sorry I am missing the snacks!
Patterned paper retired Close to My Heart
Letters cut on my Cricut with the Artiste cartridge and stars cut with the Art Philosphy cartridge
Until later,
Sue
Thursday, May 16, 2013
Using your scraps!
Other than for the card base, I rarely cut into a new piece of paper when I make cards. Here I am using the Dream Pop from the layout I posted earlier this week. The colors just make me smile! The stamp set is from the For Always Workshop on the Go kit (G1060). The sentiment is perfect for any celebratory occasion. I have a sister-in-law retiring soon...hmm...I think I have a card ready!
Design inspiration came from this Pinterest find: http://pinterest.com/pin/254875660134136728/
Keep smiling!
Sue
Wednesday, May 15, 2013
Tuesday, May 14, 2013
Surf's Up!!
When I first saw this paper packet I thought there would be no way that I would ever order it, let alone actually do a layout with it. In a good way, it grew on me and now I love the "Fun Shine" layout I did to preserve the memories of our last picnic at the lake last year. This layout design is from the Surf's Up Workshop on the Go. I love the WOTG kits because other than stamp pads and acrylic blocks, everything is there for you. I especially like the instructions that come with each kit, showing ways to use the stamps and embellishments that I would never have thought of.
This picture is the WOTG as shown in the instructions:
When I first saw this paper packet I thought there would be no way that I would ever order it, let alone actually do a layout with it. In a good way, it grew on me and now I love the "Fun Shine" layout I did to preserve the memories of our last picnic at the lake last year. This layout design is from the Surf's Up Workshop on the Go. I love the WOTG kits because other than stamp pads and acrylic blocks, everything is there for you. I especially like the instructions that come with each kit, showing ways to use the stamps and embellishments that I would never have thought of.
This picture is the WOTG as shown in the instructions:
This is a picture of my finished layout. While I followed the basic instructions, I added a picture and adjusted the size of the pictures.
Layout designs or patterns are there as guidelines. Never be afraid to change or add a design element. There is no right or wrong in scrapbooking! Just follow your instincts, have fun and love everything you create!
Until later,
Sue
Sunday, May 12, 2013
Hello! Hope you are all off to a great week! I finished up a couple projects using the Dream Pop paper set, the promotional item for the month of May. It is really a fun and versatile
set of cardstock and patterned papers. It is available during May for only $10.00 with a $35.00 purchase. This layout is bold and bright while the cards use the more subdued papers in the pack. I hope you can see the raised glossy patterns on the cardstock (the word "Walk" is reflecting the overhead light and you can see the chevron pattern). In addition to Dream Pop, I used White Daisy cardstock, Slate Ink, and Clear Sparkles on the layout and Black and Whisper inks on the cards. The sentiment on the cards is the Be Still stamp set (A1141).
set of cardstock and patterned papers. It is available during May for only $10.00 with a $35.00 purchase. This layout is bold and bright while the cards use the more subdued papers in the pack. I hope you can see the raised glossy patterns on the cardstock (the word "Walk" is reflecting the overhead light and you can see the chevron pattern). In addition to Dream Pop, I used White Daisy cardstock, Slate Ink, and Clear Sparkles on the layout and Black and Whisper inks on the cards. The sentiment on the cards is the Be Still stamp set (A1141).
I
Friday, May 10, 2013
Last Project from the Regional Celebration
It's Friday already! I hope you all have fun plans for the weekend. When I was still employed I always tried to squeeze in a little paper-crafting. It relaxed me and allowed my mind concentrate on the memories; what and who were important in my life. This last project is one of the scrapbook layouts that we created at the Regional Celebration. It is waiting for pictures that I hope will be taken of Ron and me on our summer vacation this year; memories that are waiting to happen. This layout will be perfect for pictures of anyone who is important in your life and makes your heart soar.
Suggested products:
Stampset: Sightseer (C1534), page 86
Trinkets Wooden Shapes (Z1844), page 123
Slate Polka-Dot Washi Tape (Z1817), page 122
Keyboard Kraft Alphabet (Z1825), pqge 123 (for small letters)
Large letters are cut with Cricut with the Artiste cartridge. The Houndstooth Alphabet on page 123 is another choice.
Card stock and ink pads of your choice
Happy Weekend!
Sue
Big news! Join Big Picture Classes Thursday May 30, 6 PM Pacific Time (8 PM Central Time) for their first Pajama Party. This inaugural online class is sponsored by Close to My Heart and is available to you at no cost! This project from Close to My Heart will be taught during the party. Isn't it cute? Click on the above link to see all the details.
If you wish to create this project during the party and wish to order any supplies, please click on the "Shop with Me" button on the right hand side of this page. As always, feel free to contact me personally. I think the supply list is rather intimidating. We probably all have stashes of paper scraps that would work perfectly. The must need item, of course, is the Kraft Container (Z1833).
Don't want to make this project? That's OK. Just register, log on and enjoy the fun! I will be there with the plaid jama pants and the teal t-shirt...hope to see you there!
Wednesday, May 8, 2013
Paper-Pouch Gift Bags
Aren't these little gift bags just about the cutest? They are made from the Large My Creation Paper Pouches and are perfect for a small gift, a gift card from someone's favorite store or just maybe, a gift certificate from your Close to My Heart Independent Consultant! Because they are 5" by 6", they could also serve as an envelope for a card you are giving with a gift. They are also food-safe so they would be perfect with a few homemade cookies in them!
We made several of these at the Regional Celebration, but I am partial to the one stamped with the Honeycomb stamp set. What fun!
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For the "Thank-you":
Stamp set: Sightseer (C1534), page 86
Alphabet: Keyboard Kraft Alphabet (Z1825), page 123
Baker's Twine, Neutral Assortment (Z1701), page 121
For the "Hello"
Stamp sets: Honeycomb (C1537), page 28 and Patterned Pennants (D1534), page 53
Sparkles, Clear Assortment (Z1752), page 120
3-D Foam Tape (Z1151), page 132
For both: CTMH exclusive cardstock and inks of your liking
Aren't these little gift bags just about the cutest? They are made from the Large My Creation Paper Pouches and are perfect for a small gift, a gift card from someone's favorite store or just maybe, a gift certificate from your Close to My Heart Independent Consultant! Because they are 5" by 6", they could also serve as an envelope for a card you are giving with a gift. They are also food-safe so they would be perfect with a few homemade cookies in them!
We made several of these at the Regional Celebration, but I am partial to the one stamped with the Honeycomb stamp set. What fun!
.JPG)
For the "Thank-you":
Stamp set: Sightseer (C1534), page 86
Alphabet: Keyboard Kraft Alphabet (Z1825), page 123
Baker's Twine, Neutral Assortment (Z1701), page 121
For the "Hello"
Stamp sets: Honeycomb (C1537), page 28 and Patterned Pennants (D1534), page 53
Sparkles, Clear Assortment (Z1752), page 120
3-D Foam Tape (Z1151), page 132
For both: CTMH exclusive cardstock and inks of your liking
Tuesday, May 7, 2013
A Springtime card for you
Good morning! We are having another beautiful Spring day here in Illinois! Today my card is featuring the Chantilly paper kit. This kit has a variety of Spring colors and patterns that coordinate with each other beautifully. Complementing these gorgeous papers are stamp sets, Dimensional Elements and new to this catalog, fabric!
This card will take minutes to make, but looks fabulous.
Needed for this project:
Chantilly Paper Packet (X7163B), page 18
Cardstock: Colonial White
Stamp set: For a Friend (D1542), page 99 or a sentiment stamp of your choice
Slate Polka-Dot Washi Tape (Z1817), page 122
Trinkets Wooden Shapes (Z1844), page 123
Enjoy the sunshine!
Sue
Good morning! We are having another beautiful Spring day here in Illinois! Today my card is featuring the Chantilly paper kit. This kit has a variety of Spring colors and patterns that coordinate with each other beautifully. Complementing these gorgeous papers are stamp sets, Dimensional Elements and new to this catalog, fabric!
This card will take minutes to make, but looks fabulous.
Needed for this project:
Chantilly Paper Packet (X7163B), page 18
Cardstock: Colonial White
Stamp set: For a Friend (D1542), page 99 or a sentiment stamp of your choice
Slate Polka-Dot Washi Tape (Z1817), page 122
Trinkets Wooden Shapes (Z1844), page 123
Enjoy the sunshine!
Sue
Monday, May 6, 2013
Message from Jeanette:
Jeanette Lynton is the founder of Close to My Heart. Follow this link to read her reponse to Archiver's announcement of Chapter 11 and other changes in the industry: http://www.jeanettelynton.com/2013/05/creativity-now-and-always.html
The bottom line: Close to My Heart is here to stay!
Jeanette Lynton is the founder of Close to My Heart. Follow this link to read her reponse to Archiver's announcement of Chapter 11 and other changes in the industry: http://www.jeanettelynton.com/2013/05/creativity-now-and-always.html
The bottom line: Close to My Heart is here to stay!
Introducing Washi and Trinkets Wooden Shapes!
A few weeks ago I was fortunate to attend the Regioanal Celebration of Close to My Heart in Schaumburg, IL. While I learned so much from the business sessions, the highlight was the creative sessions that featured products from the Spring-Summer Idea Book and Catalog. For the next few days, I will be sharing some of the projects with you.
This fun card was quick and easy to make. It features the Slate Polka-Dot Washi Tape Washi tape is very trendy now and adds so much to your projects. It can be used straight to your card or layout or it can be applied to a contrasting scrap of paper and then trimmed. Because the Washi is translucent, the color of your cardstock will come shining through. I also love the little bird and butterfly. They are part of the Trinkets Wooden Shapes. They are so cute and they are flat enough to go through the mail easily.
A few weeks ago I was fortunate to attend the Regioanal Celebration of Close to My Heart in Schaumburg, IL. While I learned so much from the business sessions, the highlight was the creative sessions that featured products from the Spring-Summer Idea Book and Catalog. For the next few days, I will be sharing some of the projects with you.
This fun card was quick and easy to make. It features the Slate Polka-Dot Washi Tape Washi tape is very trendy now and adds so much to your projects. It can be used straight to your card or layout or it can be applied to a contrasting scrap of paper and then trimmed. Because the Washi is translucent, the color of your cardstock will come shining through. I also love the little bird and butterfly. They are part of the Trinkets Wooden Shapes. They are so cute and they are flat enough to go through the mail easily.
Used in this porject:
Cardstock: Black, White Daisy, Whisper and Lagoon
Stamp set: For a Friend (D1542), page 99
Exclusive Inks: Black
Slate Polka-Dot Washi Tape (Z1817), page 122
Trinkets Wooden Shapes (Z1844), page 123
Contact me for more information on creating this fun card!
Sue
Thursday, May 2, 2013
Wednesday, May 1, 2013
Hello and welcome to From My Heart, my new blog for all things Close to My Heart. After a whole lot of trial and error and coaching from my fellow consultant, Lori Miller, I am finally ready to launch! I am hoping you will stop by often for creative paper crafting ideas as well as information on ideas and product information from Close to My Heart.
May is National Scrapbooking Month and in honor of the event, Close to My Heart is offering a special paper packet of 12 sheets of cardstock and 12 sheets of patterned papers in wonderful eye-popping colors available only during the monh of May. I love that one side of the cardstock has raised glossy patterns. It is so pretty! This special packet is available for only $10.00 with a $35.00 purchase. May hostesses will receive a free packet when the sales total $400.00. I received my packet yesterday and I can't wait to start creating with it! Click on the "Shop with me" button on the right side of this page to find additional information. To order from the website, click on "Online May Gathering" anytime through May 30. Not comfortable with online shopping? No problem--contact me at anytime and I will help you with your order.
I am excited about this new adventure and look forward to sharing with you.
Happy Paper Crafting!
Sue
May is National Scrapbooking Month and in honor of the event, Close to My Heart is offering a special paper packet of 12 sheets of cardstock and 12 sheets of patterned papers in wonderful eye-popping colors available only during the monh of May. I love that one side of the cardstock has raised glossy patterns. It is so pretty! This special packet is available for only $10.00 with a $35.00 purchase. May hostesses will receive a free packet when the sales total $400.00. I received my packet yesterday and I can't wait to start creating with it! Click on the "Shop with me" button on the right side of this page to find additional information. To order from the website, click on "Online May Gathering" anytime through May 30. Not comfortable with online shopping? No problem--contact me at anytime and I will help you with your order.
I am excited about this new adventure and look forward to sharing with you.
Happy Paper Crafting!
Sue
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