My Version of Project Life!

Have you heard of a scrapbooking technique called Project Life?  
I originally heard about this a few years ago through Becky Higgins and thought it was an awesome idea.  I have always wanted to get started with it but the timing has never been quite right....until now!!  I am proud to say that what you see above is the cover page for my 2013 Project Life album.  I used an older paper pack that I have hordes of, called Sonoma, along with the stamp set from the workshop on the go and the my stickease, and the Friendship alphabet (for the numbers) to create this.  The great thing about CTMH products is that the paper packs coordinate beautifully with each other.  You can view any of our products on my website HERE.

It really is the perfect project for any beginner or novice paper crafter.  I am anxiously awaiting my page protectors from CTMH so that I can make it more beautiful.

I thought to myself, what would be a good project to offer in the new year for the first therapy session?  And then it dawned on me that you might want to try this too!  So if you are interested in getting into scrapbooking, finally catching up, or an easy and quick way to preserve memories this year then look no further than this month's therapy session.  All the details can be found HERE.

My envelope system

By now many of you have heard of Dave Ramsey and the Total Money Makeover, if you haven't check it out HERE  Well, I have not taken the class but I have decided to try the envelope system that he talks about.  Of course I can not have plain ol' fuddy duddy envelopes so I created some fancy schmancy ones of my own using a template found HERE and printing it on Close to my Heart paper. 

I chose to use an older paper pack that I have been wanting to use up called Emporium.  The great thing about our paper packs is that they coordinate so well together that it was a cinch to whip these up.  Here are the steps that I did:

1. Choose paper pack and cut down to 8 1/2 x 11.
2. Using template print out onto paper.
3. Cut out template and using Tombow adhesive adhere bottom and side flaps.
4. Print out labels from same site and punch out with 1 1/4" punch. (I printed mine out on Avery sticky label paper to save time)
5. Adhere to 1 3/8" punched scallop circle (or use Cricut Art Philosophy cartridge to cut out scallops).

That's it!  Super easy, super fun and super fancy.  The labels I chose are groceries, gas, fun, haircuts & personal care, and eating out.  You can make as many envelopes as you would like to fit your needs.

Here is a peek into my grocery envelope. 

 I did not want to create an envelope for each week so  I used 3 x 5 index cards folded at different points to put four weeks into one envelope.

Hope you enjoyed this tutorial and let me know if you have used/plan to use the envelope system.

December SOTM: Greeting Cards

3" × 3" Greeting Cards

Helpful Hints

To create the techniques featured in this artwork, follow the helpful hints outlined below. Then use the patterns (Wishes: Middle Ground™, Wishes: Mini Combination™, Originals: Stage Right™, Originals: Pieced Panels™, Originals: Fun Flap™, and Originals: Side Accent™) found in our how-to publications Wishes™ and Originals^® for inspiration.

• When making cards to fit in the Card Box, determine how many you want to fit in the box—including the dividers—and then create accordingly with embellishments, making sure the embellishments aren’t too thick to fit in the box.
• Embellish with stamped accents, paper accents, and accessories, adding dimension with 3-D foam tape as desired.

December SOTM: Card Box

Card Box

Helpful Hints

To create the techniques featured in this artwork, follow the helpful hints outlined below.

• Cover some of the chipboard tiles with cardstock, depending on the amount you need. Add numbered tabs made from cardstock and B&T Duos^® papers to create dividers.
• Cover the outside and inside of the box with coordinating papers, sponging the corners and exposed areas of the box.
• Trim one of the chipboard tiles into a 2" × 1 1/2" rectangle. Cover with papers or the Memo assortment and sponge exposed areas. Attach to flap.
• Embellish with stamped accents, paper accents, and accessories, adding dimension with 3-D foam tape as desired.

December SOTM: 12x12 Layout

12" × 12" I Am So Very Lucky Page

Helpful Hints

To create the techniques featured in this artwork, follow the helpful hints outlined below. Then use the pattern (Reflections: Main Frame—Back Drop™) found on page 58 of our how-to publication Reflections^® for inspiration.

• To add your own personality to the layout, choose elements of the stamp images that coordinate with the emotion or setting of the photos, and then mask those portions and stamp them in your color of choice.
• Add visual interest by hand-stitching with hemp along the side of A.
• Embellish with stamped accents, paper accents, and accessories, adding dimension with 3-D foam tape as desired.

12 Days of Teachers Gifts: Snowman tealight project

I am currently doing a 12 days of Christmas project for my children's teachers at school.  I send them each day with a not that says "On the XX day of Christmas, my student gave to me XXX."  I have my girls each hand write the day and gift.  I did not take a photo of today's project but it was a little box full of gift tags that the teachers can use for their own presents.  Tomorrow the teachers will be getting these cute and easy snowman tealight projects!

I bought a pack of 24 flameless tea lights at Sam's Club and aside from the ones I am using for advent and our votive tree I had no idea what to do with the extras.  I am so glad I came across this project.  I adapted this from an idea I saw HERE.

I used the exclusive Close To My Heart Cricut cartridge Art Philosophy (Z1686).  I cut out the red and green ovals using the <Oval2>  keys at 1 3/4' each.  I then punched out the top red circle using a 3/4" circle punch. For the scallop underneath I cut out a <Scallop> at 1 3/4" as well.  I used my Sizzix texture botique machine and a holly embossing folder to run the pieces through.  I then started assembling.

To create the red brim I used a 1" circle punch and made two random punches.  I then cut the green oval in half.  I glued the green oval on top of the red oval.  I then attached the red circle to the top.  I cut the fringe as an after thought but make sure to cut it before attaching so the adhesive holds well.  Before attaching the bottom green scallop I used the 3/4" punch to make a circle in the bottom for the on/off switch.

After attaching all the pieces I placed two dots of red glitz glitter gel (Z1484) on the cheeks.  I then drew on the eyes and a smile with a black sharpie.  Lastly, I tied a piece of baker's twine (Z1751)for a little scarf.

Thanks for viewing my little project and stop back for more of the 12 days of teacher gifts!

Roxybonds Scrappers Team Blog Hop!

Welcome to the Roxybonds Scrappers Team Blog Hop!

We will be featuring artwork from the Pear & Partridge Paper Pack (X7162B).

If you have come here from Denise's blog, then you are on the right path. Your next stop will be Stephanie's Blog

Today I have created a simple card using a stamp of the month from October 2011.  This card is 5 x 6 1/2 on Colonial White card stock.  I used the P&P paper for background as well as olive and cranberry card stock.  I stamped the stocking on desert sand card stock with cranberry and new england ivy inks. I randomly stamped the snowflakes with olive ink.  The sentiment is cranberry ink stamped on olive card stock.  I added some itty bitty sparkles (Z1263) and our silver shimmer trim (Z1799) for some bling because you can never go wrong with it!

Now hop on over to Stephanie's Blog for your next stop.

Here's a list of all our team members participating:

Jen Patrick: http://roxybonds-scrappin.blogspot.com

Sharondalyn Tweeta Newton http://clippingsbysharondalyn.blogspot.com

Keeley Becker Kirwan http://keeleyskreations.blogspot.com/

Denise 'Carper' Heiden: http://deniseheiden.blogspot.com/

Amber LaMons (YOU ARE HERE) http://www.scrapperstherapy.blogspot.com/

Stephanie Feist: http://quiltedscrapper.blogspot.com

Catherine Nowak: http://catscrapbooking.wordpress.com/

December SOTM: Year-Round Cheer

December 2012 Year-Round Cheer

Year-Round Cheer, set of 12

Recommended Block:
2" × 2" (Y1003)

Beautiful Stamps, Amazing Discounts

Each month you can enjoy a new D-size stamp set, available for one month only, for just $5—that’s over 70% off retail! When you place an order of $50 or more in Close To My Heart products, you qualify for this special Stamp of the Month pricing.

December 2012: Year-Round Cheer (S1212A)

Spend $50 and get this Stamp of the Month set for just $5.

Incredibly Cool Crafts

In love with the artwork we created with this stamp set? Get ready to make it yourself! Purchase the materials listed here along with your deeply discounted Stamp of the Month set to get started!

Materials Needed

1. S1212 My Acrylix^® Year-Round Cheer
2. X7160B Flirty Paper Packet
3. X5666 Twilight Cardstock
4. Z1614 My Creations^® Memory Game
5. Z1764 Just Blooms^® Floret Paper Shapes
6. Z1766 Memo Assortment
7. Z1777 Color-Ready Canvas Alphabet
8. Z1371 Buttons Blue Assortment

Required Tools

1. 1301 Bamboo Cardstock
2. 1243 Goldrush Cardstock
3. Z2103 Bamboo Exclusive Inks^® Pad
4. Z2123 Goldrush Exclusive Inks^® Pad
5. Z2116 Cranberry Exclusive Inks^® Pad
6. Z2135 New England Ivy Exclusive Inks^® Pad
7. Z2160 Twilight Exclusive Inks^® Pad
8. Z280 Natural Hemp
9. Z1706 Durables Round Studs
10. Z1294 Sanding Kit
11. Z1311 1 1/4" Circle Punch
12. Z697 Sponge
13. Z341 Memory Book Mini Glue Dots^®
14. Z1151 3-D Foam Tape
15. Various Adhesive
16.   Staples

November SOTM: 3D Project

Count with Me Box & Cards

Helpful Hints

To create the techniques featured in this artwork, follow the helpful hints outlined below.

• Cut the box at 5 1/4" 3D Object <j>, found on page 57 of the Cricut^® Artiste booklet.
• Create the connected title in Cricut^® Craft Room by linking some of the letters together so they are all joined together. Cut at 3/4" using the Cricut^® Artiste cartridge.
• Cut the hearts for the front of each pocket at 1 1/4" Shift <Heart1>, found on page 26 of the Cricut^® Art Philosophy booklet.
• Add visual interest by hand-stitching around the front of the box.
• Embellish with stamped accents, paper accents, and accessories, adding dimension with 3-D foam tape as desired.

November SOTM: Birthday Card

7" × 5" Happy Birthday Card

Helpful Hints

To create the techniques featured in this artwork, follow the helpful hints outlined below. Then use the pattern (Wishes: Midpoint™) found on page 77 of our how-to publication Wishes™ for inspiration.

• Create the zigzag strips in Cricut^® Craft Room by altering the diamond border at 1/2" Shift+Accent 2 <Dad>, found on page 75 of the Cricut^® Artiste booklet.
• Cut the Colonial White journaling tag at 2 1/2" Accent 4 <o>, found on page 49 of the Cricut^® Artiste booklet. Trim as desired.
• Embellish with stamped accents, paper accents, and accessories, adding dimension with 3-D foam tape as desired.

A cute little holiday treat!

Inspired by the ever so awesomely talented Pamela O'Connor. Here is a cute and easy holiday gift made using the Cricut cartridges from CTMH and the October SOTM. What do you think?

This was made using the Close to my Heart Cricut Artiste cartridge which you can see HERE , Hershey's Nugget chocolates and some pretzel size bags.  It was super easy to make and will be a wonderful sweet treat.

This post is part of Delightful Order's Inspiring Thursday party, please follow along.... http://delightfulorder.blogspot.com/

November SOTM: 12x12 Layout

12" × 12" Time Flies Page

Helpful Hints

To create the techniques featured in this artwork, follow the helpful hints outlined below. Then use the pattern (Reflections: Front & Center—Accent Band™) found on page 74 of our how-to publication Reflections^® for inspiration.

• Cut the title letters at 3/4" and 1 1/4", found in the Cricut^® Artiste booklet.
• Cut the hearts at 1 1/4" Shift <Heart1>, found on page 26 of the Cricut^® Art Philosophy booklet.
• Emboss a design on the title letters with VersaMark^® ink and heat set.
• To create the six vertical heart rows, line three hearts up and stitch to secure.
• Embellish with stamped accents, paper accents, and accessories, adding dimension with 3-D foam tape as desired.

November SOTM: Capture the Date

November 2012 Capture the Date

Capture the Date, set of 72

Recommended Blocks:
1" × 1" (Y1000)
2" × 2" (Y1003)
2" × 3 1/2" (Y1009)

Beautiful Stamps, Amazing Discounts

Each month you can enjoy a new D-size stamp set, available for one month only, for just $5—that’s over 70% off retail! When you place an order of $50 or more in Close To My Heart products, you qualify for this special Stamp of the Month pricing.

November 2012: Capture the Date (S1211A)

Spend $50 and get this Stamp of the Month set for just $5.

Incredibly Cool Crafts

In love with the artwork we created with this stamp set? Get ready to make it yourself! Purchase the materials listed here along with your deeply discounted Stamp of the Month set to get started!

Materials Needed

1. S1211A My Acrylix^® Capture the Date
2. X7157B Dakota Paper Packet
3. Z2173 Slate Exclusive Inks^® Pad
4. Z1755 Posh Journaling Spots
5. Z1752 Sparkles Clear Assortment
6. Z1701 Baker’s Twine Neutral Assortment
7. Z1790 Cricut^® Artiste Collection

Required Tools

1. Z1686 Cricut^® Art Philosophy Collection
2. 1388 Colonial White Cardstock
3. 1243 Goldrush Cardstock
4. X5762 Lagoon Cardstock
5. Z2123 Goldrush Exclusive Inks^® Pad
6. Z2195 Lagoon Exclusive Inks^® Pad
7. Z1711 Foundry^® Binder Clips
8. Z1294 Sanding Kit
9. Z1204 Bone Folder
10. Z821 Clear Detail Embossing Powder
11. Z891 VersaMark^® Ink Pad
12. Z341 Memory Book Mini Glue Dots^®
13. Z1151 3-D Foam Tape
14. Various Adhesive
15. Various Thread
16.   Cricut^® Craft Room

October SOTM: 3D Box

Red Swirls Box

Helpful Hints

To create the techniques featured in this artwork, follow the helpful hints outlined below.

• Cut the box at 9" Shift+Font Layer <Dragnfly>, found on page 24 of the Art Philosophy booklet.
• Cut the tag at 2 3/4" Shift+3D Object <%>, found on page 35 of the Artiste booklet
• Embellish with stamped accents, paper accents, and accessories, adding dimension with 3-D foam tape as desired.

October SOTM: 3D Item

A Holiday Treat Popper

Helpful Hints

To create the techniques featured in this artwork, follow the helpful hints outlined below.

• Cut the treat popper at 7" 3D Object <BdayBoy>, found on page 68 of the Artiste booklet.
• Cut the snowflake at 1 1/2" Shift+Accent 4 <HoHoHo>, found on page 79 of the Artiste booklet.
• Embellish with paper accents and accessories, adding dimension with 3-D foam tape as desired.

October SOTM: 12x12 Layout

12" × 12" Merry Christmas Page

Helpful Hints

To create the techniques featured in this artwork, follow the helpful hints outlined below. Then use the pattern (Reflections: Front & Center—Trio™) found on page 70 of our Reflections^® how-to publication for inspiration.

• Cut the title phrase at 3" <Christms>, found on page 80 of the Artiste booklet.
• Cut the large ornament at 3" Shift+3D Object <HoHoHo>, the snowflake at 1 1/2" Shift+Accent 1 <HoHoHo>, the two red snowflakes at 1 1/2" Shift+Accent 4 <HoHoHo>, and the two mittens at 2 1/2" Accent 2 <Noel>, all of which are found on page 79 of the Artiste booklet.
• To create the paint splatter look, add a few drops of Colonial White re-inker and pearl paint to the spray pen and shake until combined. Spray as much as desired and set aside to dry.
• Embellish with stamped accents, paper accents, and accessories, adding dimension with 3-D foam tape as desired.

October SOTM: Very Merry Christmas

October 2012 Very Merry Christmas

Very Merry Christmas, set 11

Recommended Blocks:
1" × 3 1/2" (Y1002)
2" × 2" (Y1003)
3" × 3" (Y1006)

Beautiful Stamps, Amazing Discounts

Each month you can enjoy a new D-size stamp set, available for one month only, for just $5—that’s over 70% off retail! When you place an order of $50 or more in Close To My Heart products, you qualify for this special Stamp of the Month pricing.

October 2012: Very Merry Christmas (S1210A)

Spend $50 and get this Stamp of the Month set for just $5.

Incredibly Cool Crafts

In love with the artwork we created with this stamp set? Get ready to make it yourself! Purchase the materials listed here along with your deeply discounted Stamp of the Month set to get started!

Materials Needed

1. S1210A My Acrylix^® Very Merry Christmas
2. X7159B Scholastic Paper Packet
3. 1245 Olive Cardstock
4. Z1799 Silver Shimmer Trim
5. Z1743 Festive Velvet Rub-Ons
6. Z1754 Sparkles Black & Grey Assortment
7. Z1790 Cricut^® Artiste Collection

Required Tools

1. Z1686 Cricut^® Art Philosophy Collection
2. 1388 Colonial White Cardstock
3. X5642 Cocoa Cardstock
4. X5639 Sweet Leaf Cardstock
5. Z2114 Cocoa Exclusive Inks^® Pad
6. Z2118 Desert Sand Exclusive Inks^® Pad
7. Z2268 Colonial White Exclusive Inks^® Re-Inker
8. Z2502 Enchantment Exclusive Inks^® Mini Pigment Pads Set
9. Z2501 Adventure Exclusive Inks^® Mini Pigment Pads Set
10. Z2500 Whimsy Exclusive Inks^® Mini Pigment Pads Set
11. Z1704 Pewter Badge Buttons
12. Z1096 Embroidery Floss Neutral Assortment
13. Z281 White Hemp
14. Z1380 Spray Pen
15. Z1039 Create-a-Shade^® Pearl Paint
16. Z1294 Sanding Kit
17. Z1204 Bone Folder
18. Z697 Sponge
19. Z341 Memory Book Mini Glue Dots^®
20. Z1151 3-D Foam Tape
21. Various Adhesive

September SOTM: Card Idea

5 1/2" × 4 1/4" Scarecrow Card

Helpful Hints

To create the techniques featured in this artwork, follow the helpful hints outlined below. Then use the pattern (Wishes: Geometric™) found on page 124 of our Wishes™ how-to publication for inspiration.

• Add visual interest by making an embossed grid on the front of the card base.
• To create the watercolor effect on the scarecrow, color with the marker sets until desired look is achieved. Use the blending marker, as desired, to soften the colors.
• Embellish with stamped accents, paper accents, and accessories, adding dimension with 3-D foam tape as desired.

September SOTM: Card Box

Card Box

Helpful Hints

To create the techniques featured in this artwork, follow the helpful hints outlined below.

• Cut the outer cover of the card box twice, once with cardstock and once with B&T Duos ^® paper, at 6 3/4" Accent 3 <u>. Cut the card box base once with cardstock at 6 3/4" Shift+Accent 3 <U>, both of which are found on page 47 of the Artiste booklet. Cut the tag at 1 3/4" Shift + 3D Object <@>, found on page 32 of the Artiste booklet.
• Add visual interest by hand-stitching embroidery floss around the border of the card box, if desired.
• Embellish with paper accents and accessories, adding dimension with 3-D foam tape as desired.

September SOTM: 12x12 Layout

12" × 12" Pick o’ the Patch Page

Helpful Hints

To create the techniques featured in this artwork, follow the helpful hints outlined below. Then use the pattern (Make It from Your Heart^®: Pattern 17) found on page 38 of our how-to publication Make It from Your Heart^® for inspiration.

• Cut the title letters at 1 3/4" using the Cricut^® Artiste cartridge. Cut the small tag at 1 3/4" Shift+Accent 3 <&>, found on page 37 of the Artiste booklet.
• To create the watercolor effect on the pumpkins and leaves, color with the marker sets until desired look is achieved. Use the blending marker, as desired, to soften the colors.
• To create the shadow effect on the title, simply cut your title letters in a light color and then again in a darker color. Then, offset each dark letter under the light letter.
• Embellish with stamped accents, paper accents, and accessories, adding dimension with 3-D foam tape as desired.

August SOTM: Display Album

Maren Display Album

Helpful Hints

To create the techniques featured in this artwork, follow the helpful hints outlined below.

• To create a spiral flower all your own, simply draw a spiral on your paper of choice and cut along the line, leaving about an inch round base in the center. Then, wrap the center around a pen and twist the spiral around the pen. Secure the bottom of the spiral to the round base.
• Cut two circles, one slightly smaller than the other, using any of the following items: a small plate, the circle template from our Magic™ how-to publication, or the Cricut^® Art Philosophy or Artiste cartridges.
• Add visual interest by making a paper ruffle by randomly folding a thin strip of paper.
• Embellish with stamped accents, paper accents, and accessories, adding dimension with 3-D foam tape as desired.

August SOTM: "M" Card

5 1/2" x 4 1/4" “M” Card

Helpful Hints

To create the techniques featured in this artwork, follow the helpful hints outlined below. Then use the card 10 pattern (Wishes™: Just Because Workshop Card 10) found on page 73 of our Wishes™ how-to publication for inspiration.

• To stamp the two-toned letter, ink the stamp in second-generation Twilight and then immediately roll the stamp edges in first-generation Twilight ink.
• To create your own pattern paper, randomly stamp an image all over the paper.
• Add visual interest by making a paper ruffle by randomly folding a thin strip of paper, as desired.
• Embellish with paper accents and accessories, adding dimension with 3-D foam tape as desired.

August SOTM: 12x12 Layout

12" × 12" The Best Pick Page

Helpful Hints

To create the techniques featured in this artwork, follow the helpful hints outlined below. Then use the pattern (Reflections: Triple Play—Over the Top™) found on page 103 of our Reflections^® how-to publication for inspiration.

• To create the damask pattern found on the lower two-thirds of the page, stamp the large flourish with Twilight ink. Then stamp it again with clear embossing powder directly on top of the Twilight images. Heat set each image.
• To add a title, switch out one of the photos and layer with mats to add depth and interest.
• To stamp the two-toned title and stamped accents, ink the bracket stamp in second-generation Twilight and then immediately roll the stamp edges in first generation Twilight ink.
• Add visual interest by making a paper ruffle above and below the photos by randomly folding a thin strip of paper every inch or so. To add the paper ribbon across a 12" base page, use a few thin strips and attach them end-to-end.
• Embellish with stamped accents, paper accents, and accessories, adding dimension with 3-D foam tape as desired.

Studio J: What is it?

 

Studio J is Close to my Heart's exclusive digital design software that allows you to create until your hearts content using the exclusive CTMH papers and beautiful color palette.  With our new templates it is as easy as drag an ddrop to create laayout';s in a snap or gifts for the family.  Have questions?  I am always just a call or click away at scrapperstherapy@gmail.com or (541) 331-9701.

Watch this video for how to get started by clicking HERE

August SOTM: Baroque Borders

August 2012 Baroque Borders

(See this Idea Book)Autumn/Winter 2012 Idea Book

Baroque Borders, set of 5

Recommended Blocks:
2" × 3 1/2" (Y1009)
4" × 5" (Y1012)

 

Beautiful Stamps, Amazing Discounts

Each month you can enjoy a new D-size stamp set, available for one month only, for just $5—that’s over 70% off retail! When you place an order of $50 or more in Close To My Heart products, you qualify for this special Stamp of the Month pricing.

August 2012: Baroque Borders (S1208A)

Spend $50 and get this Stamp of the Month set for just $5.

Click HERE to order now!!

Incredibly Cool Crafts

In love with the artwork we created with this stamp set? Get ready to make it yourself! Purchase the materials listed here along with your deeply discounted Stamp of the Month set to get started!

Materials Needed

1. S1208A My Acrylix^® Baroque Borders
2. X7155B Avonlea Paper Packet
3. Z1054 My Creations^® Display Album
4. Z2173 Slate Exclusive Inks^® Pad
5. Z2500 Whimsy Exclusive Inks^® Mini Pigment Pads Set
6. Z1708 Sparkles Flourishes
7. Z1802 Slate Satin Polka-Dot Ribbon

Required Tools

1. E1019 My Acrylix^® Bohemian Alphabet
2. D1303 My Acrylix^® Classmate Alphabet
3. 1271 Buttercup Cardstock
4. Z2111 Chocolate Exclusive Inks^® Pad
5. Z2165 Juniper Exclusive Inks^® Pad
6. Z2192 Pacifica Exclusive Inks^® Pad
7. Z2160 Twilight Exclusive Inks^® Pad
8. Z1752 Sparkles Clear Assortment
9. Z1694 Bouquet Assortment
10. Z1792 Dimensional Elements Awards
11. Z1742 Parlor Velvet Rub-Ons
12. Z578 Corner Rounder
13. Z821 Clear Detail Embossing Powder
14. Z891 VersaMark^® Ink Pad
15. Z697 Sponge
16. Z341 Memory Book Mini Glue Dots^®
17. Z1151 3-D Foam Tape
18. Various Adhesive
19. Various Thread

October SOTM: 3D Treat Bag

To-From Treat Bag

Helpful Hints

To create the techniques featured in this artwork, follow the helpful hints outlined below.

• Cut the treat bag at 5" 3D Object <Noel>, found on page 79 of the Artiste booklet.
• Cut the tag at 3" Shift+3D Object <#>, found on page 33 of the Artiste booklet.
• Add visual interest by hand-stitching around the front of the bag.
• To create the 3-D presents on the gift tag, stamp the image two extra times in various colors and then cut the presents and attach them with 3-D foam tape, as desired.
• Embellish with stamped accents and accessories, adding dimension with 3-D foam tape as desired.

August SOTM: Baroque Borders

Isn't the artwork just gorgeous?  All of the amazing items were made using the August stamp of the month (SOTM)  Baroque Borders.  This set features several different sizes of images to create borders, background and texture paper, and add the perfect finishing such to your card or project.  You can purchase your set for just $5 with your $50 purchase of Close To My Heart products or individually for $17.95.  So why not order the brand new Cricut Artiste cartridge today and get your set for only $5.  Shop Onegin 24/u at www.scrapperstherapy.com  or contact me today to setup your own home gathering or join an online club!  I look forward to helping you create your beautiful projects for you and future generations to enjoy.

Cricut Artiste

This cartridge has it all….

• 700 total images with 698 being NEW images. The only ones repeated from Art Philosophy are the square and circle….because you always need a square or circle.
• cards with matching envelopes.
• Lots of new boxes.
• Adorable purses.
• mini albums.
• pleated rosettes.
• 4 new spiral 3D flowers.
• Welded sentiments for many occasions.
• Party hats, favors and decorations….all on one key!
• And sooo much more! 

Want to get yours before everyone else?

• Pre-buy before August 1st by clicking HERE, I’ll pay your shipping and your Artiste Collection will be on its way to you on August 1st!

Want to save some $$ as well?

• Want to save even more? Sign up to be a Close To My Heart consultant. Get your consultant kit (worth $130) for only $49 and use your 22% discount to save on Artiste!

CTMH Convention 2012- Dallas, TX!!!

Wowza, what an event!!!  My head is still spinning from the awesomeness of my very first Close To My Heart convention.  It was a fun filled 3 days in Dallas, TX and when they say the stars shine bright, they really meant it.  The pic above is of the amazing new Idea Book that is about to be released on August 1st. There are 55 brand spankin' NEW products including a Cricut cartridge called Artiste.  I will be posting plenty more about this cartridge so watch for the pics.  It was truly an amazing time to spend time with my fellow CTMH sisters, learn from the best, make new projects, be inspired by Stacy Julian and hear from our founder Jeanette Lynton.  She is truly an inspiring woman that I just want to spend time with.  It is an honor to be part of a company that truly cares about its consultants and stays true to its roots no matter what.

Some of the highlights.........

• NEW markers....we now have alcohol based markers that are simply amazing.  The possibilities are endless when it comes to blending and shading.
• NEW colors....we have 6 beautiful new colors and have simplified our color palette.  The new colors are Slate, Whisper, Saddle, Cashmere, Champagne, and Ruby!  These colors all compliment our already wonderful color palette.  We now carry 40 + 2 colors instead of the 60 from last season. 
• NEW accessories.....we have a lot of new accessories.  There are so many that I will cover each of them in a future post but let me share that two of my favorites are the new colors of glitz glitter gel (yay, pink)  and My Creations bracket frame.
• NEW kits.... we now have the opportunity for everyone.  In addition to the Master Kit ($99) which includes all the supplies to get you started with your first gathering, we now have an Essentials Kit ($49)!!!!  This kit is aimed at the part-timer that would love to get their products at a discount and share with others.  For a limited time, beginning August 1st, you can get the messenger bag above.  This is the same amazing bag we got at convention and it is PERFECT for toting your supplies to and from your events.  It has a vinyl exterior that makes it so easy to wipe off and it fits 12x12 items perfectly!  Contact me today for more information on how to get started.
• NEW Cricut cartridge...  we have done it again!  We have released our new cartridge called Artiste.  This includes 698 BRAND NEW images, many of them 3D!  The keypad is also now designed in a grid-like pattern so you do not have to guess at which one it is.  In addition to the overlay key pad we also have an assembly guide for your 3D items.  Also, our stamp sets now also identify which cartridge and which size to cut at.  There are also "themed" keys that allow you to design an entire collection in just minutes with a few buttons.
• NEW mini pigment pad sets....  with the introduction of our home decor line it is only appropriate that we have a steadfast ink.  These comes in sets of 10 in our 4 color families.
• NEW color family names and stamp categories.....we know that it can be confusing to remember which stamp set belongs with which occasion and how do you categorize sets that fit with multiple occasions?  Well, now you don't have to decide.  Our new categories are Holiday, Seasons & Nature, Flair, Everyday Life, Occasions, and Alphabets.
• NEW paper packs...they are ALL so beautifully wonderful I do not know which one is my favorite.  They are: Avonlea, Clementine, Dakota, La Belle Vie, Scholastic, Flirty, Moonlight, Pear & Partridge.
• NEW workshops....we have our fabulous Workshops On The Go (WOTG) to complement each paper pack but now we also have a Cricut kit, Scroll Album kit, Advent Calendar kit, and TWO card kits.  With these kits you will be able to create a beautiful home decor project or cards in a flash.

So, now you can see why my head is still spinning!!!  I look forward to a wonderful season of sharing these new products with you and helping preserve your family legacy.

NEW Starter Kits!!!!

Have you been thinking about joining Close To My Heart?  Well, the time is now!  I am on one of the most celebrated teams in the company and we truly are the DREAM TEAM!

NEW CONSULTANT ESSENTIALS KIT:

This kit is perfect for new Consultants who were great customers or club members before as you already have many of the tools and accessories to get you started.  Now you can use what you already own along with all these new wonderful supplies to get going!! 

This kit is also perfect for new Consultants who only want to be a Hobbyist!!  You won't end up with excess Idea Books, Order Forms and paperwork you don't need!!

 

Start by clicking HERE and completing the form.  As part of your enrollment you will purchase the New Consultant Essentials Kit for only $49!!  You will receive the basic business and creative supplies you want most. All the supplies in the kit have a retail value of approximately $130!!

Contents of the New Consultant Essentials Kit include:

Read Me First Letter, Current Idea Book (qty. 3)
Hostess Order Forms (W122/W122C, qty. 5)
Customer Order Forms (W101/W101C, qty. 5)
Close To My Heart Color Swatches (W471)
Autumn/Winter 2012 B&T Duos® Sampler (W1115)
My Acrylix® Nature's Delight Petite Perks™ Stamp Set (W2023)
Workshops on the Go™ Avonlea Kit (G1045)
Avonlea Complements Canvas Shapes (X7155C)
My Creations® Recipe/Photo Box (Z1322)
Color-Ready Canvas Alphabet (Z1777)
Chocolate Exclusive Inks® Pad (Z2111)
Slate Exclusive Inks® Pad (Z2173)
My Acrylix® Glamour Lowercase Stamp set (D1522)
My Acrylix® Perfect Fit--Frames Stamp Set (D1527)
3" x 3" My Acrylix® Block (Y1006)
2" x 3 1/2" My Acrylix® Block (Y1009)

NEW CONSULTANT MASTER KIT:

This kit is perfect for new Consultants who are wanting to really work their business as it includes extra supplies to help you and your customers!!

If you're ready to make CTMH a business, we recommend the New Consultant Master Kit for just $99!! With a retail value of approximately $280, the Master kit includes expanded business items, along with additional products and Studio J layouts, to help you organize your business and reach your creative and financial goals.  It’s an investment that will reap big rewards!!

Contents of the New Consultant Master Kit Includes Everything in the Essentials kit PLUS:

Current Idea Books (qty. 7 more)
You Are Welcome Here Recruiting Brochures (W1151) (qty. 25)
The Rewards come Now Hostess Brochures (W1150) (qty. 25)
5 Studio J® Layouts (redeem within 3 months, not shown)
Studio J Brochures (W111/W111C) (qty. 5)
Hostess Order Forms (W122/W122C) (qty. 20 more)
Customer Order Forms (W101/W101C) (qty. 20 more)
Petite Perks™ Nature's Delight Incentive Stamp Set (W2023) (qty. 4 more)
Cello Bags (W1152) (qty. 25)
My Acrylix® Stamp Scrubber (Z1782)
My Acrylix® Spritz Cleaner (1778)
Bonding Memories® Glue (1512)
Sponge (Z697)
Liquid Glass (Z679)
Chocolate Exclusive Inks® Marker Set


~Joining Close To My Heart was and is one of the best decisions I have ever made.  I thought that I could never create the beautiful artwork and teach the ideas that are shown in the Idea Book but you truly can create faster, simpler and easier, and I can show you how!~

 JOINING IN AUGUST IS IN THE BAG!!
Join Close To My Heart in August and get a darling Damask Tote Bag FREE!!

When you become a new Consultant in August, you will receive a FREE Damask Tote Bag (retail value $50), while supplies last.

This handy, attractive tote with the Close To My Heart logo lets everyone know you are a Close To My Heart Independent Consultant—with class and style!!  This bag was given to consultants who went to convention and is seriously sought after by consultants who did not attend.  It's a MUST HAVE!

Choose the $49 New Consultant Essentials Kit or the $99 Master Kit which includes more supplies and tools, and we will send you a tote bag FREE — only in August and only while supplies last.

Damask Tote Bag Features
• 17" x 17" x 6"
• Large exterior pocket for 12" x 12" paper packets
• Huge interior can hold a 12" x 12" album and more
• Small, zippered interior pocket
• Fabric is coated-canvas for durability and easy cleaning
• 2 water bottle pockets
• Wear on the shoulder, across the chest, or as a backpack
• Large flap snaps closed
 
Offer available August 1–31, 2012, while supplies last. No tax or shipping/handling is charged on the Damask Tote Bag. Tax and shipping/handling is charged based on the price of the New Consultant Kit that is purchased ($49 or $99).

** IF YOU WANT THE DARLING DAMASK TOTE BAG THEN WAIT UNTIL AUGUST 1!! **
If you have any questions that I can answer for you, please email me at scrapperstherapy@gmail.com
 

At the end of the day all we have are memories

CTMH Convention in Dallas 2012

I recently returned from the Close To My Heart convention in Dallas, TX.  It was one of the best experiences I have ever had.  At first I was hesitant about attending because I have not built my business as I would have liked and we just relocated to a new state and are about to relocate again AND, AND, AND.....

As a mom, it seems like we all have reasons for not doing things that can benefit us.  We always have something else to do or someone more important than ourselves to attend to.  Well I have been living this way fro years, since the birht of my first child almost 14 years ago, but a moment came last week that changed me.

We were fortunate enough to hear from Stacy Julian, a scrapbooking industry visionary and a true motivator.  She made several points that just hit right home for me.  She told me that it was okay to not be caught up on my scrapbooking, to let go of the guilt that surrounds that black hole of the scrapbooking abyss.  She told me to take time to care for myself, something so simple, yet so easily neglected.

One of the most important phrases that I have ingrained in my memory and have thought of each day since I heard it, "At the end of the day all we have are memories."  Of course this is just a simple phrase and such a duh sentiment but it just struck a chord with me.  In fact, I plan to have this phrase turned into a vinyl expression for my wall so that we will never forget this simple mantra.

The reason that this is so dear to me is because, as many of you know, I lost my mother almost two years ago.  There will be no new memories made until we meet again one day.  I reflect on the little things that my mother and I did together as a child.  I refelct on the good, the bad, and the ugly, but mostly I reflect on the sound of her voice.  I do not have any old messages or videos that I can find with her voice and I desperately worry that I will one day forget her voice.  I wish those recordable storybooks would have been more readily available before she left us but I cannot live in the woulda, shoulda, coulda world.

I get so caught up in the daily humdrum and the constant connection to an electronic device that we forget to take time to reflect on the days events.  We take pictures, we record facts and details, and we tuck them away so we can preserve the memories for future generations.  It is in these moments that we think we are preserving them that we sometimes forget to experience the moment.  So while yes it is important to record the events and people in our lives for future generations to experience our lives, we must not forget to live in the moment of the day.  After all, at the end of the day all we have are memories.

June SOTM: Life is Tweet card

Life Is Tweet Card

Helpful Hints

To create this artwork, follow the helpful hints outlined below.

• Cut the following using the Cricut^® Art Philosophy cartridge:
• Kraft cardstock card base: 4" Card <Square4> (p. 53)
• Sand B&T Duos^® plaque: 3 1/2" <Square4> (p. 53)
• Kraft cardstock flower: 2 1/4" Shift <Flower5> (p. 48)
• Cut the following papers:
• 3/4" × 4" waves B&T Duos^® paper
• 1 1/4" × 1 1/4" Colonial White cardstock
• Stamp large flower image with Cocoa ink on kraft cardstock flower.
• Stamp the circle sentiment from the large flower image with Tulip ink on 1 1/4" × 1 1/4" Colonial White cardstock; trim.
• Stamp medium bird image with Cocoa ink on scrap kraft cardstock; trim.
• Sponge edges of all papers with Cocoa ink, excluding card base.
• Attach sand B&T plaque to center of card base; stitch around it with White Daisy baker’s twine.
• Assemble card, trimming right side of waves B&T paper and sponging exposed edges with Cocoa ink.
• Stamp small flower images with Cocoa ink and embellish card, using 3-D foam tape if desired.

June SOTM: Anniversary Card

Anniversary Card

Helpful Hints

To create this artwork, follow the helpful hints outlined below.

• Cut the following using the Cricut^® Art Philosophy cartridge:
• Kraft cardstock card bases: 5 1/2" Card <Shape10> (cut 2, p. 67) (use one as card and the second as card insert as described below)
• Sweet Leaf cardstock plaque: 2 1/4" <Shape10> (p. 67)
• Colonial White cardstock plaque: 3" Layer <Shape10> (p. 67)
• Stitch a diamond pattern on one card front.
• Cut second card base in half along fold; discard the solid side.
• Use extra card front as a mask when spraying Lagoon and Colonial White re-inkers (separately) on the inside card base; set aside to dry.
• Stamp hat image ten times with Tulip ink on scrap Colonial White cardstock; trim triangle portion of hat and discard remainder.
• Stamp sentiment on with Cocoa ink lower portion of Sweet Leaf plaque.
• Sponge edges of Sweet Leaf plaque and ten pennants with Cocoa ink.
• Assemble card, attaching extra card front to the back of the stitched card front to hide stitch marks on inside of card.
• Embellish as desired.

June SOTM Blog Hop

Welcome to our first monthly Stamp of the Month Blog Hop!

On the 15th of each month we will be showcasing the current SOTM set with various projects created by talented Close to my Heart consultants. If you are visiting from Pamela Stewart - http://i-candy-scraps.blogspot.com/ then you are on the right track, if not please start at the beginning with our hostess Pam!


Life is tweet with the set for June! So many options with this set! You can do birthday’s, anniversary, or just a general thinking of you projects! The possibilities are endless!

This is my creation! 

Now if the goblins of cyber space have gotten you lost along away here is the list of all the talented consultants who are participating in this months blog hop! 


1. Pamela Stewart - http://i-candy-scraps.blogspot.com/
2. Amber La Mons- http://www.scrapperstherapy.blogspot.com (YOU ARE HERE)
3. Darla Haverstock http://www.stampingunderdoctorsorders.blogspot.com
4. Eva Friesen http://www.loveofcreating.blogspot.com
5. Melissa McDaniel http://melissamcdaniel-scraps.blogspot.com
6. Joanne Barnes http://josiesjoy.blogspot.com
7. Lucy Kelleher http://love2createitall.com
8. Addie Recoy http://addierecoydesigns.wordpress.com
9. Carol Loftus http://carolloftus.blogspot.com/
10. Amy McVey  http://clearlystamping.blogspot.com
11. Melissa Wyatt http://ohscrapbym.blogspot.com

12. Judith Ashmore http://grammieashmore.blogspot.com
13. Amie Kiger http://mimimyselfandibykigz.blogspot.com/

June SOTM: Banner Pennant Flag

Birthday Pennant Flag

Helpful Hints

To create this artwork, follow the helpful hints outlined below.

• Cut the following using the Cricut^® Art Philosophy cartridge:
• Kraft cardstock pennant card: 3 1/2" Card <Banner2> (p. 29)
• Green dots B&T Duos^® paper pennant: 5" Layer <Banner2> (p. 29)
• Stamp the body from the large bird image with Cocoa ink on scrap waves B&T paper; trim.
• Stamp the beak from the large bird image with Cocoa ink on scrap sun B&T paper; trim.
• Stamp hat image with Tulip ink on scrap Colonial White cardstock; trim.
• Sponge surface of cork shape with Cocoa ink.
• Assemble card and embellish, stamping sentiments with Cocoa ink and masking technique.

June SOTM: How Tweet

How Tweet Card

Helpful Hints

To create this artwork, follow the helpful hints outlined below.

• Using the Cricut^® Art Philosophy cartridge, cut Colonial White cardstock card base: 3 1/2" Card <Square5> (p. 63).
• Cut the following papers:
• 3" × 3" kraft cardstock
• 1 1/2" × 7/8" Colonial White cardstock
• Stamp border image several times with Cocoa ink across 3" × 3" kraft cardstock.
• Stamp sentiment with Cocoa ink on 1 1/2" × 7/8" Colonial White cardstock.
• Spray sentiment bird stamp with Lagoon re-inker, water, and spray pen and then stamp on scrap paper; trim small birds and discard remainder.
• Sponge surface of cork shape with Tulip ink.
• Sponge edges of kraft cardstock, sentiment, and two birds with Cocoa ink.
• Attach sentiment to cork shape and trim to fit, sponging exposed edges with Cocoa ink; attach small birds.
• Wrap baker’s twine around kraft cardstock, forming five horizontal lines.
• Assemble card and embellish, using 3-D foam tape if desired.

It's Stampaganza time!!!

Purchase any two stamp sets (sizes A, B, C, D, or E) at full retail price and receive a third stamp set of your choice FREE (of equal or lesser value)—a savings of up to $29.95!

Stamp sets that count toward the qualifying purchase include full-priced A, B, C, D, and E sets only. Stamps that do not count toward a qualifying purchase include customizable (K), Workshops on the Go™, Cricut^® collection, and Stamp of the Month (both discounted and full-priced) sets.

Dates: Offer valid June 1 (9:00 am MDT) – June 30 (11:59 pm MDT)

June's Stamp of the Month

June is finally here!  I can feel the breeze and the warm Summer air, bring out the bbq and let's get the season started.  What are your plans for June?  Do you have a family vacation or a special event planned? No matter what you have planned the June SOTM is ready to record those celebrations,  With the cute images and fun sentiments, this set is sure to please.

As always you can get this set from June 1-30, for only $5 with any $50 purchase or $17.95 by itself.  Join us at a workshop or schedule your own gathering to see this set up close and in action.  Shop online anytime www.scrapperstherapy.com

To create those cute projects above these are the supplies that you would need:

Tweet Projects

In love with the artwork we created with this stamp set? Get ready to make it yourself! Purchase the materials listed here along with your deeply discounted Stamp of the Month set to get started!

Materials Needed

1. S1206 My Acrylix^® Life is Tweet
2. X7151B Footloose Paper Packet
3. Z1712 Foundry^® Number Plates
4. Z1719 Color-Ready Evergreen Cork Shapes
5. Z1701 Bakers Twine Neutral Assortment
6. Z1387 Wooden Designer Buttons
7. Z1686 Cricut^® Art Philosophy Collection

Required Tools

1. Z1388 Colonial White Cardstock
2. Z1375 Kraft Cardstock
3. Z2114 Cocoa Exclusive Inks^® Pad
4. Z2166 Tulip Exclusive Inks^® Pad
5. Z2295 Lagoon Exclusive Inks^® Re-inker
6. Z2268 Colonial White Exclusive Inks^® Re-inker
7. Z1380 Spray Pen
8. Z1114 Piercing Tool Kit
9. Z726 Sponge Daubers
10. Z341 Mini Glue Dots^®
11. Z1151 3-D Foam Tape
12. Y1003 2" × 2" My Acrylix^® Block
13. Y1006 3" × 3" My Acrylix^® Block
14. Y1010 1" × 6 1/2" My Acrylix^® Block
15. Adhesive
16. Bamboo Skewer