Butterfly Mini Note Card Set by Monika Davis

Butterfly Mini Note Card Set! – Monika Davis
Make this beautiful mini note card set for a sweet friend.  There are also instructions for a matching box to hold them and a sweet butterfly pin.  Learn how to make your card look like it was bought in a store by heat embossing and adding glitter paper. Try your hand at a technique, called ‘Bokeh’ affect, and turn your butterflies into multicolored embellishments. Learn how to add simple, but interesting touches to your cards that will wow any recipients.  Great for a stamp camp, or as a class project.  Head on over to Craft Project Central and subscribe to the month of March for full step-by-step instructions!

Torn To Pieces Art Journal Page

Today's Lesson From The Craft Room:  When You Are Torn To Pieces, You Can Choose How To Put The Pieces Back Together Again
I'm not quite sure what to say about today's lesson or today's art journal page.  Maybe I will just let the lesson stand on its own.  It's hard to remember that when you are torn to pieces, you can choose how to put the pieces back together again.  It's a lesson I need to take to heart.  Somehow literally tearing a photo of myself apart brought some insights into my process of piecing myself back together again.  Now if I can only put those insights into practice in my life...
Today's page was created for Paper Crafters' Library.  If you are interested in viewing the full step-by-step videos of how I created the page, head on over to Paper Crafters' Library by clicking on the badge in the upper right-hand corner of my blog and look into becoming a Paper Crafters' Library member.  You'll be glad you did!

Paper Expressions 8: A Video!!!

Today's Lesson From The Craft Room:  You have to leave the city of your comfort and go into the wilderness of your intuition.  What you'll discover will be wonderful.  What you'll discover is yourself. - Alan Alda
Today I am sharing another video in my Paper Expressions series.  I am creating these painted papers in an effort to get more in touch with "the wilderness of my intuition."  I hope this video inspires you to go on your own journey to discover your inner guide.  Enjoy!

Family Established Shadow Box & Card! by Christy Fulk

Family Established Shadow Box & Card!  by Christy Fulk
Need an anniversary gift for that special couple?  This shadow box is the perfect gift for them.  It features their family name, along with the year they were married.  Make one for them, and one for yourself.  Make the coordinating card to make the gift complete!  The shadow box and card feature the Butterfly Basics Stamp Set and the Butterflies Thinlits Dies.  Directions on how to color the flowers and Gold Foil Sheets with Blendabilities is included in this tutorial.  This would also make a great class.  Head on over to Craft Project Central and subscribe to the month of March for full step-by-step instructions!

Finding Herself Art Journal Page

Today's Musing From The Craft Room:  It's funny how the closer I get to my dream, the more obstacles I put in my way
I can be my own best friend and my own worst enemy!  I have been aware of an interesting pattern in my life lately.  It seems the closer I move to the dream of becoming a full-time artist - the more I acknowledge the desire within me - the more I keep doing things that push me further away from that dream.  What is up with that?  Why am I getting in my own way?  When I figure that out, I will let you know :)  In the meantime, I will keep dreaming....and try to prevent myself from getting in my own way!
Today I am sharing an art journal page I created for Paper Crafters' Library.  My art journal is a place I can experiment and play - it's like an art playground!  I can also express my thoughts and feelings.  Hmmm, so I guess it's like an art playground and a therapist's office all in one! :)  If you are interested in the step-by-step videos for how I created this page, head on over to Paper Crafters' Library by clicking on the badge in the upper right-hand corner of my blog and look into becoming a paper Crafters' Library member.  You'll be glad you did!

Mini-Collage Challenge #26

Today's Lesson From The Craft Room:  Get In Touch With Your Creative Instincts
Instinct is defined as "a natural or intuitive way of acting or thinking."  I am on a journey to get in touch with my creative instincts.  I find that the only way to get to a place where I am in tune with my intuitive way of acting when I create is if I keep creating.  Sometimes I am much more rigid in my approach...until I loosen up a bit...and then I can let go.  It's funny howt hat is true in so many areas of my life.  The lesson keeps appearing in my swimming lessons.  When I am tight and thinking so much in my head, it is hard for my body to be fluid in the water.  When I am critical and rigid in the craft room, it is hard for me to be fluid in my art.  Get in touch with your creative instincts by creating more.  This will loosen you up and your natural way of acting will begin to flow!
Today I am sharing mini-collage #26 in my mini-collage challenge of 30 collages.  In some ways this piece really isn't a collage - I only used pen and watercolor...but hey, I was getting in touch with my creative instincts :)

Paper Succulent Garden Gift Set by Julie Beltramo

Paper Succulent Garden Gift Set! by Julie Beltramo
Create the ultimate no-maintenance garden with these faux succulent plants! You’ll learn how to make five different succulents in a variety of colors and textures that will make the everlasting garden. The coordinating ‘succulent’ card makes for the perfect presentation to give this as a gift to someone special. The Gift Box is a quick, but cute way to add a little special wrapped treat or small gift to include for your recipient. Plus, you’ll get a great tip on how to wrap this Takeout Box without a lot of fuss using your Designer Papers!  Head on over to Craft Project Central and subscribe to the month of March for full step-by-step instructions!

Floral Bouquet Explosion Box & Card by Amanda Corbet

Floral Bouquet Explosion Box & Card – February Bonus Project!  by Amanda Corbet
Brighten up your home or someone’s day with this beautiful bouquet gift box. This lovely bright box topped with fun spring flowers opens up to reveal a stunning bouquet of flowers on the inside. The box also features fold out panels perfect for adding a picture and pockets where you can place a special note, gift card, or more. Give this as a gift to someone special with the coordinating greeting card and gift bag. This would be a wonderful class project too!

Bonus projects can be obtained by subscribing to two or more months in a row at Craft Project Central, putting the Craft Project Central badge on your blog, or by referring a friend and when they subscribe, letting Craft Project Central know.  Head on over to Craft Project Central for more details!

Tranquil Garden Art Journal Page

Today's Lesson From The Art Journal Page:  Sometimes Words Aren't Needed
I find when I art journal I often include words on my pages.  As I was creating this page, I felt it could stand on its own - no words needed.  It reminds me of looking out into my backyard to watch the beauty that exists - the birds, the growth, the activity.  And with all the snow outside, it definitely makes me think of Spring :)
I created this page for Paper Crafters' Library.  If you are interested in the full step-by-step videos for how I created the page, head over to Paper Crafters' Library by clicking on the badge in the upper right-hand corner of my blog and look into becoming a member!  You'll be glad you did :)

Mini-Collage Challenge #25

Today's Lesson From The Craft Room:  Explore What Is In Your Core
There are some things that are fundamental for each of us.  I was talking to Michael the other day and we were talking about what it means to be an artist.  I said that I consider him to be an artist and he disagreed.  When I asked why he said, "because I don't feel compelled to create."  I'm not sure that's what defines being an artist.  At the same time, he identified for me something that is fundamental to who I am - I feel compelled to create!  The energy comes from a fundamental place within myself and I feel most at peace when I honor that energy.
Today I am sharing mini-collage #25!  I cut out some tape that I painted to create these concentric circles - all leading to that fundamental place within myself...

Birthday in a Box by Lisa Althouse

Birthday in a Box! by  Lisa Althouse
Need to throw a birthday party in a pinch?  This bright and fun Birthday Box has everything you need…just add cake! From invitations to décor, this project has you covered.  And, when you’re box is empty, you can use it for the present!  Get the full step-by-step instructions by heading over to Craft Project Central and subscribing to the month of February!

Mini-Collage Challenge #24

Today's Lesson From The Craft Room:  Breathe
Today I need to tell myself to breathe!  I sometimes get myself a bit worked up with all the busy thoughts of busy-ness.  It's funny how some days I feel like a warm breeze and other days I feel like a total dust storm!  Art can have a calming and centering effect on me.  To just sit - even for a few minutes - a put some paint on paper, or string some beads on a wire.  Yes, just breathe.
Today I am sharing mini-collage #24 of my mini-collage challenge.  Home and mountains have shown up a lot in these little collages.  I'm not surprised :)  Hard to believe I only have 6 more collages to go!  This is one challenge I am going to finish...if I continue to breathe :)

Berry Basket Gift Set for Baby by Boni Montano

Berry Basket Gift Set for Baby! by Boni Montano
This berry basket is full of handmade goodies that will make a new mom smile, including a decorative door knob hanger to remind guests that baby is sleeping, a coordinating piece of art for baby’s room, and an adorable mini card to give best wishes for the new baby. These items are set in a cute berry basket that can also be used to store baby mementos! This is a one of a kind gift set!   Get the full step-by-step instructions by heading over to Craft Project Central and subscribing to the month of February!

Drawer Treat Box & Greeting Card by Monika Davis

Drawer Treat Box & Greeting Card! by Monika Davis
Make this cascading Drawer Treat Box for your crafty friend. Fill it with treats, craft embellishments, needle work supplies or/and office supplies and make your friend’s day. After emptying this little treat ‘heaven’ it can be re-filled and re-used over and over again. It is the perfect desk accessory. Learn how to add a water color look to your flowers without being an artist, and find out how you can Partial Die-Cut with your dies.  Great for a stamp camp, or as a class project.  Get the full step-by-step instructions by heading over to Craft Project Central and subscribing to the month of February!

Mini-Collage Challenge #27

Today's Lesson From The Craft Room:  Of all places, art is a spot where mistakes should be considered honored guests. - Melanie Rothschild
I am very excited to read Melanie Rothschild's book The Art of Mistakes!  I love a book that is based on the fundamental belief that mistakes are a beautiful thing!  If we are too afraid of making mistakes, we freeze up.  Or worse yet, we never even start.  If we can think of our art as an open invitation for mistakes to come and pay us a visit, we will react to them differently as they occur.  As a matter of fact, we may begin to see our mistakes as the reason why we are creating!  The mistakes are the places where we learn and grow!  The mistakes, if we are inviting them to the play date, are where we can abandon the critic and have fun!  How can you open the door to mistakes today?
This is mini-collage #27 in my personal challenge to create 30 mini collages (in 30 days....but I'm ignoring that part of my own challenge!).  I created the background by sticking down a lot of different pieces of tape that I had painted.  The words were cut out of a book.  I hope you like it!  Now go make some mistakes :)

Creative Fire Art Journal Page

Today's Lesson From The Craft Room:  Quench The Fire!
The only way I have found to quench my creative fire is to just make something!  Artist Dina Wakly says, "My challenge to you is to just make. Don't worry about finishing, just make. In my classes I always say, 'No thinking, only doing.' Eventually pages get finished as you go from piece to piece. When you create in this organic way, your art evolves dynamically.  Have fun!"
Today I am sharing a page I created for Paper Crafters' Library.  A combination of cheesecloth, packing tape, alcohol inks and other sundry supplies came together to create this bonfire of a page!  Interested in seeing the full step-by-step videos for how I created this flaming page?  Head on over to Paper Crafters' Library by clicking on the badge in the upper right-hand corner of my blog and explore subscribing to Paper Crafters' Library.  You'll be glad you did :)

Book Box Card Set by Christy Fulk

Book Box Card Set! – Christy Fulk
This is an easy and attractive way to store a set of cards on any desk or shelf. The card box is shaped like a book with two pockets inside. One pocket holds eight cards and the other pocket holds eight envelopes. The card set includes two card designs, four of each design. The book box is held closed with a ribbon tied into a bow. The box and cards are made with the Sheltering Tree Stamp Set, Best Year Ever Designer Series Paper, and the Best Year Ever Accessory Pack. This would make a great card class, too.  Get the full step-by-step instructions by heading over to Craft Project Central and subscribing to the month of February!

Mini-Collage Challenge #23

Today's Lesson From The Craft Room:  If What You Read Inspires You, Turn It Into A Work Of Art!
Today I am sharing mini-collage #23...slowly, but surely, I am making it to #30!  This mini collage was inspired by a daily meditation I read awhile back in The Book of Awakening by Mark Nepo.  The message was about living outside the tank that we put ourselves in - the limitations we create, that society creates.  What if you moved beyond those limitations and boundaries?
Have you read something inspiring lately?  How might you turn what you have read into a work of art?

Paper Expressions 7: A Video!!!!

 

Today's Lesson From The Craft Room:  It Takes Courage To Honor What Your Heart Is Telling You

The voice is getting louder - more insistent.  It was a whisper for awhile.  A faint cry from my innermost being - the call to be an artist.  And for so long it felt as if the faint cry was coming from behind a closed (and locked) door.  But instead of trying to break down the door and burst through to the other side, in many ways I have spent time piling things up against the door - placing obstacles in my way - not allowing myself to even see the possibility that the door can be opened and I can walk through.  But now the faint cry has becoming a yearning - a scream - and nothing, not even everything I have piled in front of the door, can keep me from moving forward.  So with brush in hand and puddles of color before me I have been painting.  Painting because I have to.  Painting because I want to.  Painting because the colors are flowing in my blood.  I am becoming more courageous - even in the midst of my fears.  I am listening to what my heart is telling me.

Today I am sharing another Paper Expressions video.  My process with paint, brush and paper - as I learn to listen to my heart.  Enjoy!

All About That Easel Base by Regina Andari

Easels are easy, and they add interest (and convenience) to a variety of projects.  This All About That Easel Base ensemble by Regina Andari features a handy calendar stand with a pocket for note paper that would dress up any desk.  There are two greeting cards—the first one features four easel panels to display four mini stamped creations—art and/or sentiment—and would make a pretty conversation piece.  The second card features a fun twisted easel.  Lastly, the generously-sized gift box (drawer style) has an attached greeting card with its own easel and a subtle, elegant decorative design.  Get the full step-by-step instructions by heading over to Craft Project Central and subscribing to the month of February!

Paper Expressions 6: A Video!!!

Today I just want to share another one of my Paper Expressions video.  I also want to share a wish:  May you find the courage to express yourself!  Have a beautiful weekend! :)

Lucky Framed Art Gift Set by Julie Beltramo

Make someone's St. Patrick's Day the luckiest one yet with this Lucky Framed Art Gift Set by Julie Beltramo.  You’ll make this fun and festive Lucky Framed Art that is cute to display anywhere in your home or workspace. You’ll also learn how to make the simple, but creative Treat Box. And top off the gift set with a coordinating greeting card! This would make a fun class to host with your crafty friends too! Get the full step-by-step instructions by heading over to Craft Project Central and subscribing to the month of February!

Happy Valentine's Day Scrap Card

Today's Lesson From The Craft Room:  Clean Up Your Craft Surface Onto A Card!
I love making cards like this.  Cards that wouldn't have come together but for all the little bits a pieces that were lying around on my craft table.  Cut them up, rearrange them, glue and mix them - you'll be surprised what you can come up with!  I began by stenciling the background with Crisp Cantaloupe ink and wrapping the panel with a bit of crochet thread.  Then the scrap mixing began!  Go clean up your craft surface onto a card!  You might just love what you create!

Painted Blooms Card Holder by Laurie Zoellmer

This beautiful Painted Blooms Card Holder by Laurie Zoellmer will easily hold eight cards and envelopes, making it the perfect gift!  Lovely and sure to impress – and easy to assemble!  You can change out the Designer Series Paper to suit any occasion or holiday.  Not only does this make a perfect gift, but also a great idea to sell at Craft Shows or to hold a fun class!  Once you start making these Card Holders, you’ll be hooked!  Head over to Craft Project Central and subscribe to the month of February for full step-by-step instructions!

Work Of Art Treat Cup

Today's Lesson From The Craft Room:  What you create should be determined by your needs, not your weaknesses. -Anna Held Audette
When was the last time you created something that you felt a need to create...even though you knew you weren't good at making the thing you wanted to create?  Whether it's drawing an animal, painting a face, trying to capture a scene during your travels - do you find that you shy away from putting pen to paper because you tell yourself, "I don't know how to draw a face," "I can't make an animal," "I have no idea how to draw something in perspective."  If this is the case, recognize that you are allowing your weaknesses to confine you and there is no way to turn your weaknesses into strengths if you don't give them a try!  So put that pen to paper!  Put paint on that brush!  Scribble out what the scene looks like to you.  With every step your weaknesses will begin to diminish and your courage will grow!
Today I am sharing a quick and easy treat cup that I made with a 8" x 8" piece of designer series paper and a bit of folding!  You might remember making these origami cups when you were younger - they were fun to drink from!  I added a bit of stamping using the Work of Art stamp set.  Such a simple way to let someone know they are special for Valentine's Day!

Birthday Balloons Party Set by Yapha Mason

Everyone has a birthday and every birthday deserves a party! This Birthday Balloons Party Set by Yapha Mason will help you get your party planning underway from beginning to end. Using the new Celebrate Today stamps and matching framelits with the festive Birthday Bash Specialty Designer Series Paper, this project includes instructions for an invitation, cupcake toppers, a favor box, and thank you cards. This would be a fun class or birthday stamp camp, and it is perfect for the next birthday party you throw.  Head over to Craft Project Central and subscribe to the month of February for full step-by-step instructions!

Mini-Collage Challenge #22

Today's Lesson From The Craft Room:  Where You've Been Will Find Its Way Into Your Art
The mountains.  They keep showing up in my mini collages.  They are a part of my landscape on my morning walk with the dog.  They bid me farewell and welcome me home when I find myself heading to and from the airport.  Where you've been will find its way into your art.  The places you call home.  The landscapes you've seen.  The emotions you have lived.  Come back to those inspirations and enjoy them even more...and more.
This is the 22nd collage in my mini-collage challenge.  I purchased some tape at a dollar store while I was on a work trip and enjoyed a bit of art-making on the road :)  I hope you like it!

Mini Valentine's Sweet Box

Today's Lesson From The Craft Room:  Use What You've Got!
When it comes to holiday stamping I am quick to look into my collection of past stamps to see what I have that will work.  Yes, I like buying new stamps to add to the collection.  At the same time, I also like to make sure I use what I have and that I'm not buying a stamp set just for the sake of being "current."  If you like these little boxes, but don't have the stamps I used, think about what stamps you already have that you might be able to substitute.  And yes, if all else fails, you can always shop HERE to find something new :)
This mini box can hold quite a bit of chocolate!  I used the retired Hello Doily stamp to stamp the lid.  I guess you could call this a throwback since I also used a retired stamp :)  I am a firm believer that if you have a stamp already in your collection that will work...use it! :)  I also found some different pink ribbons hanging around the craft room to tie around these baby boxes.  Happy Valentine's Day!

Bonnets & Butterflies Easter Ensemble by Buffy Cooper

Spring is on the way with flowers, butterflies, and sunshine!  Here’s a fun Bonnets & Butterflies Easter Ensemble by Buffy Cooper that includes an Easter Bonnet centerpiece or wall hanging, bonnet favors for your Easter festivities and spring card.  These projects would also be perfect for Mother’s Day, a spring tea party, or even a bridal shower.  With your Big Shot and a few framelits and dies – including the new Butterflies Thinlits Dies – you can create these projects in a snap!  Head over to Craft Project Central and subscribe to the month of February for full step-by-step instructions!

Valentine's Day Candy Box

Today's Lesson From The Craft Room:  In terms of art, the only real answer I know of is to do it.  If you don't do it, you don't know what might happen. - Harry Callahan
Whether it's creating a small box to hold chocolates for Valentine's Day, painting a large canvas to hang on your wall, or doing an art journal entry every day, you are creating art.  And, as Harry Callahan says, if you don't do it, you don't know what might happen.  It is fine to read blogs and watch videos.  It is fine to watch other artists at work.  It is okay to organize your art and crafting supplies.  What you want to make certain is that you don't allow these other activities to take you away from the actual doing - the actual making - of art.  What piece of art can you begin or make today?
Today I am sharing a small Valentine's Day box that can hold a whole bunch of sweets!  I created a belly band with Sweet Taffy designer series paper.  Happy early Valentine's Day! :)

All About Owls Gift Set

It’s all about owls and all about simplicity!  You don’t need a million supplies to make a gift set that you can be proud of!  This is my February project for Craft Project Central.  Learn how to make this adorable owl from Whisper White card stock and then turn him into an embellishment for cards and a card holder.  Take it to the next level by making the same owl from Simply Pressed Clay!  The clay owl will stand up tall in a plant or pencil cup! This set would make a great class and would be a fun way to involve children in your crafting!  Head over to Craft Project Central and subscribe to the month of February for full step-by-step instructions!

Mini-Collage Challenge #21

Today's Lesson From The Craft Room:  Honor The Artist
Three simple words.  Honor the artist.  Yet some days I find myself struggling to fulfill them.  What does it mean to honor the artist that you are?  To give yourself the freedom to play.  To be kind to yourself as you learn and grow.  To make time - no matter how little or how much - for doing whatever creative act makes your heart sing.  These mini collages have been one way for me to try to honor the artist that I am.  2" x 2" squares that I can fill with whatever I want.  No judgement.  No rules.  Take as much time or as little time as I like.  What can you do to honor the artist that you are?

Happy Birthday Box Set by Amanda Corbet

With this fun January Bonus Project - A Happy Birthday Box Set by Amanda Corbet - you will be ready for those birthdays that pop up throughout the year.  This gift set features five different fun card designs that double as gift card holders and five small gift bags that are perfect for a gift card or any other small gift.  All of this comes with a fun box to keep it all in so it’s ready when you need it! This would be fun class project too!
This is the January Bonus Project at Craft Project Central!  Bonus projects can be obtained by subscribing to two or more months in a row at Craft Project Central, putting the Craft Project Central badge on your blog, or by referring a friend and when they subscribe, letting Craft Project Central know.   Get more details by heading over to Craft Project Central!

Paper Expressions 5: A Video!!!

Today's Lesson From The Craft Room:  Allow That You May Not "Do" Anything With It
As I have been posting my Canvas Play and Paper Expressions videos, I have been getting asked "What do you do with the paper/canvas after you create it?"  It is a very reasonable question.  After all, the pieces may not appear to be finished works of art ready for framing.  At the same time, I am intrigued by the question and I wonder if it comes from a place deep within us where we somehow believe that something does not hold value unless we "do" something with it.  I feel this pressure on myself sometimes.  Am I of any value if I am not "doing" something with my time (at all times!)?  It is this worship of "doing" that has led me to unhappy and unhealthy places in my own life.  Times when I am not taking care of myself because I feel guilty if I am not "doing" something with my time.  So I am toying with the answer, "I don't do anything with it."  For some of the pieces I have created, that currently is the correct answer.  The paper or canvas sits in my craft room - waiting to see what the future will hold.  Will it be turned into something?  A mixed media piece?  A collage?  A greeting card?  Or will it just sit?  And, if it does just sit...is that okay?  My resounding answer to that question is YES!  It is okay to not "do" anything with it.  I believe that in many ways its purpose has been fulfilled in the making - by just coming into being.  The fact that I was able to spend minutes of my life engaged in the act of creativity - of giving birth to something - of allowing expression to come through me - this is what the piece has "done" and I really need not ask more of it.  My focus being on the process and what it teaches me, versus the product.  Of course, I may find, as time passes, that the piece has more creating to do in this lifetime.  That will be fine.  It is also fine if the answer is I may not do anything with it.  I hope you enjoy my Paper Expressions 5 video :)

Domed Pedestal with Floral Bouquet & Card by Bev Adams

A fitting tribute, this Domed Pedestal with Floral Bouquet & Card by Bev Adams is enthroned on a glimmering pedestal and protected under a shiny clear dome.  Flowers in Wisteria Wonder, So Saffron, and Blushing Bride are tied around their stems with silky Wisteria Wonder Seam Binding.  The coordinating card is dedicated to Bev's sister, but could also be a fitting tribute to your lovely mother or other special woman in your life.  Get the full step-by-step instructions by heading over to Craft Project Central and subscribing to the month of January!

Choose Happiness Tear Card

Today's Lesson From The Craft Room:  Let Shape Inspire You
I was playing around with dry embossing using stencils.  This particular stencil was called Mini Rain.  As I was doing the dry embossing, I noticed how much those rain drops looked like tears.  The tears led me to use the greeting from the Choose Happiness stamp set from Stampin' Up!  What will shapes inspire in you?

Stacked with Love Notes & Treat Pouch Gift Set by Julie Beltramo

Get ready for that someone special with this complete Stacked with Love Notes & Treat Pouch Gift Set by Julie Beltramo! A simple, but sweet Note Card Box is fun and easy to make. It holds nine 3” x 3” cards and envelopes that will be easy to access, and perfect for those quick notes everyone needs to write! The Treat Pouch is the perfect companion that will hold those special goodies you want to share. And the coordinating card is simple, sweet and stunning! And, if that’s not enough… this tutorial will teach you a ribbon trick that you’ll love and use again and again!  Get the full step-by-step instructions by heading over to Craft Project Central and subscribing to the month of January!

Canvas Play 2: A Video!!!

Today's Lesson From The Craft Room:  Go With The Flow...Release!
In today's video I decided to use Golden Acrylic Flow Release for the first time.  Rather than get myself very familiar and comfortable with the product before filming, I decided to show you what it is like for me to learn about a product while I am using it!  After I finished the video I wondered if I should delete the whole thing and refilm it and just use the paint that I discovered worked best with the flow release.  Then I decided it was better to show you the journey I went through.  And, just because one paint worked better than another, doesn't mean you should stop using the paint that flows less!  I ended up liking the finished product and that wouldn't have happened if I didn't "flow" with the lessons as they unfolded!  Enjoy!

Mini Baby Book Gift Set by Monika Davis

Make this sweet “Baby Girl” mini accordion album by Monika Davis for a friend who is expecting or has just had a baby. The mini album is perfect for scrapbooking or keeping keepsake photos. It nicely fits in a hand bag. These pieces can be mass produced easily and the greeting card can serve as the invitation or/and the baby announcement. Great for a stamp camp, or as a class project.  Get the full step-by-step instructions by heading over to Craft Project Central and subscribing to the month of January!

Paper Expressions 4: A Video!!!!

Today's Lesson From The Craft Room:  Process Is Messy - Austin Kleon
I don't know where I'm going!  This is looking like a mess!  What if I can't get this to a place where I can stand to look at it?  Why am I filming this???  All of these thoughts run through my head as I film my process of creating.  My Paper Expressions and Canvas Play videos are all about letting you into my process.  Sharing my experimentation with you.  Taking you with me on the journey I am on.  When these videos begin I have no idea what will transpire on the paper or the canvas.  I just begin.  And I share it with you.  Because I want you to see it is okay to not know what you are doing.  It is okay to not know where you are going.  It is okay if you end up creating something you (and others) don't even like.  The important part is that you just make it!

Creating Pretty Cards - Card Challenge #43

This is my submission for this month's Creating Pretty Cards - Card Challenge #43 over at Craft Project Central!  I combined the One Tag Fits All and the Stacked With Love Designer Series Paper Stack.  Do you know where the little punched heart came from?  Look closely...it's the little heart from the Owl Builder punch and it works perfectly with this banner and sentiment!
Head on over to Craft Project Central and participant in the challenge!  For every ten cards submitted, they will pick one winner of a free month subscription on Craft Project Central! The winner(s) will get to select the month of their choice!  Good luck!

Blooming Perpetual Calendar by Amanda Corbet

Create and hang this beautiful Blooming Perpetual Calendar by  Amanda Corbet to always keep track of what day it is. Easily update the calendar each month for years to come. Storage is provided right on the back of the frame for any extra pieces that aren’t used. So all the pieces you need are right there. Give this as a great gift for the new year with the coordinating card. This would be a wonderful class project!  Get the full step-by-step instructions by heading over to Craft Project Central and subscribing to the month of January!

XOXO Gift Set

Love for the season.  Love all year long!  This XOXO Gift Set is a wonderful way to show your affection for someone you love.  The set includes a love-themed sign along with a coordinating gift card and matching box.  This set would make a great class and also offers a perfect way for you to decorate for Valentine’s Day!  This is my January project for Craft Project Central.  For full step-by-step instructions, head on over to Craft Project Central and subscribe to the month of January!

Mini Collage #20 & Paper Expressions 3: A Video!!!!

Today's Lesson From The Craft Room:  Find The Little Girl
I have been having a lot of fun playing with color and allowing myself to not judge, not assess and just flow.  I call it "finding the little girl."  At one time in my life (oh so long ago!) there was a little girl who wasn't afraid to play with color.  She didn't care what anyone thought.  She just wanted to eat those colors up and let them take her wherever they wanted!  It didn't matter what she did with what she made.  All that mattered was that she made.  She created.  She put crayons to paper, paint to brush, markers to walls (but that's a whole other story...and it was mostly hidden in my closet :)  So today I took a piece of deli paper along with some FW Acrylic Artist Inks and I found the little girl.  I hope you enjoy the video and the mini-collage I made with the deli paper to commemorate this important creative adventure!

Memory Wire Bracelet

Today's Lesson From The Craft Room:  Play With All The Ingredients!
The ingredients for a creative life are vast!  And I am studying to be a gourmet craft chef!  Which means I have to play with ALL the ingredients!!!!!  That includes beads! :)  Memory wire and beads came together to create this olive and pink bracelet that is fun to wear and easy to put on and take off.  I even added a few dangles to the ends :)  I'm thinking about opening an Etsy shop...I will let you know if I do.  I have a feeling I will be able to make more jewelry than I will ever be able to wear ;)  I'd better go....more ingredients are waiting! :)

Canvas Play 1: A Video!

Today's Lesson From The Craft Room:  Make Mud!
I had a scrap piece of raw canvas sitting on the craft table and I decided to play with it!  I also had a bunch of Daler & Rowney Acrylic Artists Inks on the table...so the match was made!  I paired the two together in this video and the beginning was a bit rocky - I made what looked like mud!  But I kept going and am really happy with the result!  The lesson from this video?  Make some mud!!!!!

Art Canvas & Garland Decor! – Regina Andari

Art Canvas & Garland Decor by Regina Andari
With this tutorial, you’ll learn to make two home décor items that are perfect for Valentine’s Day but, since they stray from the traditional colors of pink and red, it won’t be necessary to rush to put them away.  First up is the adorable black canvas, which would be a sweet gift item, featuring the Hearts Decorative Mask.  You will probably make a list of people for whom you can make a canvas once you see how easy it is to go from a blank canvas to WOW.  The second project is a heart garland that you will thoroughly enjoy making!  It is surprisingly quick and easy from start to finish, and it has such a sweet presentation that you will be looking for the perfect place to hang it—and leave it year-round.  Lastly, there’s a greeting card that coordinates with the canvas and garland.  Head on over to Craft Project Central and subscribe to the month of January for full step-by-step instructions!

A Little Kindness Goes A Long Way Card

Today's Lesson From The Craft Room:  A Little Kindness Goes A Long Way
I'll let the sentiment on this card speak for itself :)  What little kindnesses can you bestow on others in 2015?
To create this card I played around with heat embossing on vellum and dry embossing using a stencil.  I also decided to do a non-traditional closure.  After all, it is 2015!  Time to do a few new things! :)