It's the little things!

I am a sucker for cute embellishments! Especially now that I am limiting myself to my monthly kit clubs that means the only real shopping I do is for embellishments -- and border punches! (But that’s another story!). Don't ask me to justify my logic. It works for me ;o) I tend to shop for neutrals and bling. Both can be used on just about anything. For me, they are like the icing on the cake – no pun intended given that yesterday was the Royal Wedding!

One of the biggest challenges with some of the brads and things is to think ahead about how you’ll use them and not just stick them on any old way. Remember "sticker sneeze"? You can also get "embellishment sneeze." And we do not want that!

The layout I’m featuring here was one that initially stumped me. I wanted to highlight some photos from a black-tie event but struggled with how to do them justice. It's not often that my DH wears a tuxedo and I get to wear sparkly shoes!



Naturally, my first thought was bling, bling and more bling. And I included that:














But I also wanted to play on the theme of the “Heart Ball” with plenty of red. Note how I matted my one piece of patterned paper onto a red mat. That’s a new thing for me, but I think it has many other applications. How many time do you have a beautiful piece of patterned paper that you want to include and want as much of it to show as possible? If you’re like me – that’s often! This is a neat way to feature that paper. I also found a gorgeous flower embellishment in my stash that worked perfectly.

But I felt like it really came together once I decided to do journaling strips and use brads to highlight it. It helped to balance the overall layout and just added an extra “umph” that made me happy!

So, there you have it. Thoughtful use of embellishments will help your layouts tell exactly the story you want to tell.

Happy Crafting!
Moanica

Get Published in our Jun/Jul 2011 Issue!

Submit your work for your chance to be published in the premiere issue of Scraps of Color Magazine!

We want to see your layouts, cards and other paper crafting projects.  Submit your work to our current page call and you may be published in the upcoming Jun/Jul 2011 issue of Scraps of Color!

You may submit one or more projects to each of the calls below.  We are currently looking for:

• Father’s Day - Honor that special male in your life, whether your father, grandfather or father-like figure.
• 4th of July - Celebrate freedom.  Share your pages and cards.
• SOC Inspired Creations - Have you been inspired by a sketch, layout, card or altered item presented in an issue of Scraps of Color.  Share your creation!
• Your Scrap Space: Big room, small space.  We want to see your fun, creative scrap room or space.  Where do you create?  Share your photos or your creative space and you might be featured on our blog or in the magazine.
• Crop Happenings:  Having a charity crop?  Let us know.  We just might share it with our readers!  Had a fun scrappy gathering?  Met up with some scrappy pals?  Share your photos and we might feature you in an upcoming issue.
• Our Voices: We want to hear from you.  Do you have questions or comments about Scraps of Color Scrapook Magazine.  Are you excited about the current issue or upcoming issues, blog features etc?  Have you been inspired by one of our Creative Team Members?  Share your work and/words and you might be featured on our blog or in the magazine.

Submissions are due by May 15, 2011! 

Be sure to follow our submission guidelines listed here:

• Submissions must be never before published items whether in print or online.
• Submissions must be a high quality photo, or scan(scan preferred).  If photographed, please photograph with a light or white colored background.
• Save as 200dpi, 
• By submitting your creations for possible publication you agree to the terms as provided here. 
• Include the call subject in your email subject
• Email each submission separately to: classygirl at mac dot com
• Submission must include:  project title, your name and supplies list.  Pay particular attention to the supply formatting. 
• Submissions that do not STRICTLY follow the guidelines will not be considered.
• All submissions will be entered to win a prize pack from our sponsors.  All published artists will also receive our highly coveted, "I've Been Published" SOC Button to display on your blogs, web sites and/or signature lines. 

SAMPLE SUBMISSION.

Definitely Not Routine by Tena Ellison.  Supplies Cardstock: Bazzill Basics; Patterned Paper: Basic Grey; Rub ons: Fancy Pants; Pearl Flourish: Prima; Vellum: The Paper Studio; Font: JI-Cutins.

Win this Crafty DVD from Above Rubies Studio!

Ahhhhh....it's time for another FABULOUS SOC Giveaway!!! Woot! Woot!  This week we are giving away this cool, creative dvd from Above Rubies Studio.  This one is for all of you crazy, crafty Cricut girls or for those who want to join the crew!

This dvd is like having a Cricut University in your living room!  With over 40 easy to follow lessons you are sure to become the "Cricut Master!"  

Ok...enough already!  How do I win?  It's easy just:

1. Make sure you have subscribed to Scraps of Color Scrapbook Magazine (right side bar).  Our contests are open to subscribers only and EVERY scrapper, stamper and altered artists should subscribe...afterall it's FREE!
2. Next be sure you are a follower of the SOC Blog. See at right to become a follower!
3. Lastly, come back here and leave a comment telling us that you are now a follower of the SOC Blog, by Sunday, May 1, 2011, 11:59p eastern and you are entered!

While here be sure to check out pages 16-18 of the Apr/May 2011 Issue to learn more about Above Rubies Studio and be sure to visit their web site for more project ideas and giveaways!!!

Please note: We will have several giveaways thru May 2011.  All prizes will be mailed at the end of May.  Winners are chosen by random number generator.  Due to shipping costs giveaways open to US/Canada residents only.  Winners must be subscribers to the SOC Magazine to be eligible to win.  Be sure to check the blog to see you are a winner.  Announcements will be made via the blog only.  Unclaimed prizes will be forfeited. 

EnJOY!

Did You Win???

We have some unclaimed prizes!!!!  The deadline for claiming these prizes is quickly approaching.  As of May 1st they will go back in the SOC Treasure Chest for another lucky winner to claim!

Be sure to check our winners posts here to see if you somehow missed the news!

Have a Scrappy Day!
Classygirl!

Happy Easter

For all who celebrate Easter, Happy Easter. I hope you had a wonderful day yesterday. Here in Maryland the weather was sunny and warm, a beautiful day to spend with family and friends. My friends stopped by to ask me to take their family Easter photo, and I just couldn't resist turning the photo into a special treasure fit for framing. So in about an hour, I created this. (And yes...even the dog is smiling!)

Easter 2011 by Camille. Template: Tiffany Tillman (25 Days Summer #16);
Digital Paper: 9th & Bloom (Details in the Fabric)

Yet another reason I love this wonderful hobby of scrapbooking.  I get to create such wonderful keepsakes for people I care about. 


How do you share your love of scrapbooking? Do you create gifts for your friends and family?


Camille

Save on SOC Tshirts and Accessories! Sunday and Monday Only!

Did you miss our last sale on SOC Tshirts and Accessories?  Well here is another chance for you to save!  

Sunday and Monday only, April 24 and 25, 2011!  Save $5 on ANY purchase, no matter how big or small!  Woohoo! 

Coupon Code: 

Coupon Code: AprilSweet

Discount: $5 off any order!Disclaimer: You must enter coupon code: 

AprilSweet

before completing checkout. Discount does not include shipping, taxes, or additional charges. Offer valid from 04/24/2011 until 04/25/2011 11:59 PM MST. Not good on previous purchases. May not be combined or substituted with any other promotion.

Show your SOC Pridre!

Click here to place your order Sunday, April 24, 2011 thru Monday, April 25, 2011!

Spread the SWEET SAVINGS!  Tell a friend!

Do You Know What Today Is?

Happy Hellos Everyone:

Many of you may not be aware, but today is a special day. It's probably even more special to that little person in your life--more specifically, that kindergarten. Today is National Kindergarten's Day and it's not too late to celebrate this much over looked occasion. Consider making that special kindergartner his or her favorite dinner or have a book ready to read to him or her just before they go off to dreamland and don't forget to cap it off by telling them what makes today extra special.

Now, I know many of you may be quick to acknowledge, 'I don't have a kindergartner.' Well, consider that special niece or nefew, godchild, or a close family friend, consider acknowledging that little one. Our children are in desperate need of a little encouragement and TLC from the right people, so why not you. Now, if that doesn't work remember, there was a time when you were a kindergartener. Compare what was required of you to what today's kindergartner must know before moving on. That alone should bring on the "WOW" factor.

I don't have a kindergartnet to highlight, but I made a card in celebration of the occasion. SHARE: If you have a kindergartner in your life, what do you plan to do?

Peace, Love & Blessings,

Lorie

Sew Cute!!

Hello SOC Fan,

So how did you all like the second issues of SOC?? Any faves do tell??  Big hats OFF to the entire SOC designers for doing their THANG!!

 Well Happy Spring!! Wait has it arrived for you yet?? We are expected to receive OVER 3-6 inches of SNOW!! All I can say is UGGHH!! Really I have packed away ALL of my winter clothes,maybe I am trying to force Spring to come?? Sooo not working for me!! I am ready for sundresses and flip flops!! Seriously I love shopping FOR all things!! So my latest find happen to be this super cute die cut by Timmy

This is SEW CUTE right?? I had to have this one!! Could not wait too create something fabulous.. Gabby and Daddy had a date night!! A father&daughter bond is very important. This is the first MAN in her life,and fathers should show their daughter how their supposed to be treated. SEW here's MY layout using this cute die!!

Cardstock:DCWV
Pattern Paper: Echo Park For The Record
Frames: Me&My Big Ideas
Beads: Michael's
Yarn:Joann's
Tatter Angels Mist
Tools: EK Success Butterfly
Tim Holtz Die Cut: Sewing Room

Have a Happy Tuesday !!
Chalesexoxo

Sweet Pea...

Is one of the names I still call my daughter but it's also the birth month flower for April. The Sweet Pea flower is a climbing garden plant having fragrant pastel-colored flowers and can mean "Blissful Pleasure or Goodbye". So when my daughter sent me the photo of her with these climbing flowers (don't think these are Sweet Peas though) I had a great idea for my layout.

In keeping with one of the themes in our April/May issue of the SOC magazine, I decided to try my hand at making some Sweet Pea flowers from fabric. So I went online and found a great tutorial for making them using crate or tissue paper but I'm using left over fabric from the mini album I made. You can check out the mini album starting on page 42. To make the fabric easier to work with and to form the flower petals I added some Therm O Web Heat n Bond iron on adhesive to the fabric squares. This also helps the fabric from fraying. I used twist ties to hold the petals and wrapped them with fabric for my stems. It was easy and fun trying out a new technique and a great way to use up scrap fabric.

So if Spring hasn't quite sprung in your area and you're not smelling the sweet fragrances of Sweet Peas...try making a bouquet of your own using fabric or paper. They will still be beautiful!

Sweet Pea by Tena Ellison. Supplies Patterned Paper: Pink Paislee; Title Letters: American Craft; Vine Flowers: Prima; Handmade Fabric Flowers: Tena Ellison; Fabric: Basic Grey; Die Cut Fence: Cricut; Cartridge: Heritage.

**Note: I used the Sweet Pea tutorial found at www.castleintheair.biz to make the flowers.

Photoshop Fun! Color Isolation

Have you ever wondered how graphic artists and photographers achieve some of those interesting photo effects? In this image I wanted to highlight the taxi, so I used a color isolating technique to make the rest of the image black & white and leave the taxi in full color.

Here is a quick tutorial on how to isolate color on a photograph in Photoshop. It is a simple technique that can have a really big impact.

Step 1
Step 2
Step 3
Step 4
Step 5
Step 6


The tutorial was created using Photoshop CS5, but the technique will work with most layer based image editing software. Give it a try and let us know how it turned out!

It's Spring!

It's time to celebrate the release of the latest issue of E:spire! Woohoo!
I understand there are a few impressive give-a-ways in the plans for the up-coming weeks. Be sure to visit E:spire for the latest projects from our team and our sponsors: Studio Calico, Neatnix, Eyelet Outlet, Daily Window Bags, Scrapbook Girl, and Above Rubies Studio.

Spring has finally arrived in Southeastern Michigan. I played in the yard today sans jacket or sweater. My tulips are about five inches high and my favorite flower, the peonies, are peeking through the soil. The trees have teeny, tiny little green buds and upon careful scrutiny I saw a robin's nest filled with the most pastel eggs. The blue shells inspired me to put together this project to celebrate Spring.

The Robin's Nest

This is a simple, easy example of a color and cut project. I stamped the image of the nest and robins eggs three times on watercolor paper.

To keep the outline of the image crisp I used a solvent ink, Saddle Brown, by StazOn.

This stamp is by The Artistic Stamper. The name of the stamp is Nest of Hope.

This is a traditional rubber stamp that has a cling mounted backing which allows you to use the stamp on an acrylic block.


Using Tombow watercolor markers I applied layers of color. Notice with the eggs that I left the centers almost white to create an illusion of depth and applied a heavier concentration of color near the outer edges of the eggs. Cut the image of the nests and randomly layer for dimension.

Cut the nest in pieces from all three of your images.

Use different shades of brown to create shading for a more realistic presentation.

Adhere the nest. Insert the robin's eggs into the nest.

Using layers of blue paper, create your card base.



Easy peasy!

Easy Beginner Project: Pinwheel Flower Accent Card

Have you ever given a gift and wished you had matching paper to make a card? Have you wished you had more paper after using up the last bit of your stash on a project, to create a matching card? Or in my case, received a cool gift - and got inspired to make a card from the pattern.

Well you can create your own designs to make a card, or accent an existing project, with a little bit of paint, paper and 1 brush.

I got the inspiration for this quick design, after receiving the cutest little paper box from my Secret Sistah (going on right now on the Scraps of Color website). I loved the bright whimsical floral patterns on the box - and wondered if I could re-create one of them.

I chose the light blue pinwheel flower to re-create for my accent. After choosing a flower to re-create, look in your stash for colors to match as close as possible.



You can use acrylics, watercolors or what I used, Folkart Papier Paint. Using a flat brush, press down, pull and lift up to create your petals.



Alternate your colors, using the same strokes until your flower is complete. Don't worry if the ends of the petals drag - you can use Flow Medium to thin your paint, or water. Remember, you'll be covering up the center with yellow, for your flower center.



Did you notice the accent dots on the box? I re-created them on my card, using the end of my paintbrush.



Let dry. Now, you're ready to decorate a card, or add your item to a scrap layout, like you would normally.



Once complete, you now have a unique, one of a kind card. You can do the same to a border of a scrapbook page, and altered project - even an ATC.



Come on, give this project a try - I've laid out all the steps for you to paint along with me. Once you try, you'll see how quick and easy adding painted elements to your paper projects really is.

Happy Crafting!


Supplies: FolkArt Papier Paint, Donna Dewberry #6 Flat brush, Cats Eye ink, bling by Lush, sheer ribbon and grosgrain ribbon from ScrapGoods, Paper by Be Bop

We have some WINNERS!!!!

I know you've been wondering who are the lucky crafters who won our recent, great ticket and kit giveaways!  Well, we have the WINNERS!!!  Woohoo!


Congratulations goes to:
Natalie
Renee
Susan Carle-Williams
Tiger Pride
Star Ark Creativity

You each have won a set of tickets this Paper Crafting Extravaganza coming to GA in May 2011!!! Woohoo! Please email me your mailing address before May 1, 2011 to receive your tickets.  Please note: all winners must be subscribers to the SOC Scrapbook Magazine at the time of entering to be eligible to win.  Prizes not claimed prior to this date are forfeit.  Winners are chosen via random number generator.

And that's not all!  We also have a winner of this fabulous kit from the Treasure Box Club!  Yes we do and the winner is.....Luana!!!  Woohoo!  Congrats!  Please email me your mailing address before May 1, 2011 to receive your tickets.  Please note: all winners must be subscribers to the SOC Scrapbook Magazine at the time of entering to be eligible to win.  Prizes not claimed prior to this date are forfeit.  Winners are chosen via random number generator.

Classygirl!