Spring Pencil Holder & Greeting Card! by Monika Davis

Spring Pencil Holder & Greeting Card! by Monika Davis

Make this pencil holder out of recycled toilet paper tubes and bring Spring into your office or workplace. This hand-made piece will be the talk of the lunch break or party. Give those tubes a new look with a textured finish, and then cover it with pretty flowers and butterflies. Use different textures to bring those images ‘alive’. Great for a stamp camp, or as a class project.  Subscribe to the month of April at Craft Project Central for full step-by-step instructions!

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Moon Over The Mountains Art Journal Page

Today's Lesson From The Craft Room:  Your Sense Of Place Lives Inside Of You
Today I am sharing another art journal page that I created for Paper Crafter's Library.  Once again I find myself coming back to landscapes with mountains - Colorado is definitely in my heart! :) Sometimes I don't think we realize how strongly the place we live can influence us.  In my art, mountains keep appearing.  I know that on my walks, the mountains bring me peace.  They humble me.  They continue to remind me how small I really am.  They center me.  When I am in a frenzy or a stressed state, it seems that mountains show up in my art to remind me of my center.  There's something about the moon too - a full moon in full glory.  A beacon in the darkness.  Yes, your sense of place lives inside of you and finds its way into your art.

If you want the full step-by-step videos for how I created this page, explore becoming a member at Paper Crafter's Library.  Head on over to Paper Crafter's Library by clicking on the badge in the upper right-hand corner of my blog and see all that they have to offer!  You'll be glad you did :)

Painted Blooms Stationery Box! by Christy Fulk

Painted Blooms Stationery Box!  by Christy Fulk

This pretty little stationery set holds everything you need for sending out cards. There’s a place for eight envelopes, eight cards, post-it notes, postage stamps, and a pen. This would make a great gift for Mother’s Day, Teacher Appreciation Day, and any other occasions you can think of. This tutorial teaches how to make the stationery box, and two different card designs. It features the lovely Painted Blooms Designer Series Paper and the coordinating stamp set, Painted Petals. This would make a great Mother’s Day class, too.  Subscribe to the month of April at Craft Project Central for full step-by-step instructions!

Happy Passover and Easter!

Wishing those of you who celebrate a very Happy Passover and a very Happy Easter!  Hope you have beautiful holidays!!!!!

The Time Is Now Art Journal Page

Today's Lesson From The Craft Room:  You Do What You Can Do
I have been scarce on my blog lately.  Lots of work-related travel and a 2-week bout with the flu has taken my energy away from my creative routine and the blog is the first to suffer (or maybe I'm the first to suffer and the blog takes a close second!).  I realize that the imbalance of work and creativity has all been a choice - my choice.  I haven't quite figured out why I've been making this choice.  For right now, I am just accepting that it is a choice I have made.  Maybe it's the season.  Or the fear of doing something different.  I will accept that for now I am doing what I can do.  (by the way...that is a very impromptu photo of me in my pjs this winter...hair in a bun, old sweatpants...nothing like sharing the true version of yourself with the blogosphere :)
Today I wanted to share an art journal page I created for Paper Crafter's Library.  I really enjoy creating art journal pages - a place to explore, experiment and release what is inside of me.  Ironic that this is the page I am posted along with today's lesson - they seem a bit opposite from one another.  A conundrum for me to figure out :)  If you want the full step-by-step videos for how I created this page, explore becoming a member at Paper Crafter's Library.  Head on over to Paper Crafter's Library by clicking on the badge in the upper right-hand corner of my blog and see all that they have to offer!  You'll be glad you did :)

April Showers Umbrella Décor Set! by Julie Beltramo

April Showers Umbrella Décor Set! –Julie Beltramo

Get ready for your April ‘showers’, or any other spring, or maybe Luau, party with these umbrella décor pieces! You’ll learn how to make two types of umbrellas and you can accessorize them in a variety of ways. Plus, you’ll make a Gusseted Mini Treat Bag, large enough to hold a variety of goodies, and coordinates perfectly with the umbrellas. A quick and simple accompanying card can either be used as the perfect invitation card or be adapted to give the whole set as a cute gift!  Subscribe to the month of April at Craft Project Central for full step-by-step instructions!

Butterfly Terrarium Gift Set by Amanda Corbet

Butterfly Terrarium Gift Set  – March Bonus Project!  by Amanda Corbet
Bring the spring time right inside with this beautiful spring butterfly in the delicate, yet sturdy terrarium to keep it safe and protected. Hang this sweet little terrarium up and enjoy the butterfly's company. Give this beautiful piece of spring as a gift with the matching card and gift box! Worried about cutting out all those windows? If you have an e-cutter have no fear, an SVG file is included with the tutorial package so you can quickly be on your way to putting together this butterfly's home!

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!

Bokeh Gift Ensemble by April Vicary

Bokeh Gift Ensemble! –  April Vicary
Let’s get out of those winter blues and make a couple bright and cheerful projects that you can keep or send to someone that needs a little brightness to cheer them up.  All you need is a Big Shot, a few circle punches, the Basic Butterfly Stamp Set, Butterflies Framelits, and some bright cardstock!  Gift ensemble includes a shaker card, matching pen and keepsake box!  For full step-by-step instructions, head on over to Craft Project Central and subscribe to the month of March!

Rustic Office Décor Ensemble! – Julie Warnick

Rustic Office Décor Ensemble!  – Julie Warnick
This Rustic Office Ensemble is the perfect gift for a college graduate, someone starting a new job or a new phase of life! This gift offers functionality, décor and words of advice that can encourage and uplift the man in your life every day! The framed sentiment can either stand on the desk or hang on the wall to remind the recipient of important elements of success. The magnetic board holds a handy, custom notebook and can also be a place for photos or reminders. The pencil holder and business card holder are coordinated perfectly and keep necessary items within reach and clutter off the desk. The matching card tops of this ensemble and gives you a place to congratulate your man on his accomplishments!  For full step-by-step instructions head on over to Craft Project Central and subscribe to the month of March!

Field Of Flowers Canvas

Blue skies, a field of flowers and butterflies!  This Field of Flowers home décor canvas will brighten up your home and make you long for Spring!  With a few simple supplies you can create a gorgeous piece of art for your wall.  A coordinating card for any occasion is also a part of this set…just in case you decide to make an extra canvas and gift it to a lucky friend!  This canvas is sure to brighten any wall!  For full step-by-step instructions head on over to Craft Project Central and subscribe to the month of March!

Campout Gift Box & Pop-Up Card by Melissa Banbury

Campout Gift Box & Pop-Up Card! – Melissa Banbury
Do you have a hard time coming up with project ideas for the men in your life?  This Campout Gift Box & Card may be the perfect solution if they love the outdoors!  This 4” x 4” gift box features all the makings of a perfect outdoor getaway – a tent tucked into the trees, a cozy fire, stars in the sky, and even a “cuddly” guest!  The pop up card completes the set and is sure to bring a smile to his face!  For full step-by-step instructions head on over to Craft Project Central and subscribe to the month of March!

Standing Scrapbook for Baby by Yapha Mason

Standing Scrapbook for Baby! – Yapha Mason
This scrapbook is perfect for displaying a dozen pictures of a new baby, using an inexpensive frame that is transformed into spectacular standing scrapbook. The double sided pages can be turned to showcase different pictures at different times. This project combines the Sweet Dreams Designer Series Paper with the Something for Baby stamp set into a fresh and fun scrapbook. It would make a fabulous gift for any new parents or grandparents, as well as a great class or club project. Includes instructions for a matching card.  Head on over to Craft Project Central and subscribe to the month of March for full step-by-step instructions!

Basket Full of Note Cards by Regina Andari

Basket Full of Note Cards! –  Regina Andari
With this tutorial, learn a quick and easy way to assemble the Berry Basket, which you’ll fill with an assortment of 3” x 3” note cards that feature the Adventure Bound Designer Series Paper Stack.  The note cards, which feature an interesting variety of designs, are perfect for a vast selection of events and occasions.  If a larger card is what you need, there is a project in this tutorial that shows you how to take one of the note cards and convert it to an A2 greeting card that also doubles as a gift card holder.   Head on over to Craft Project Central and subscribe to the month of March for full step-by-step instructions!

Envelope Punch Board Desk Caddy by Laurie Zoellmer

Envelope Punch Board Desk Caddy!  – Laurie Zoellmer
This darling desk caddy is perfect for office supplies, stamping supplies or anything else you want to organize on your desk.  It’s made using the Envelope Punch Board and so easy to assemble!  This Desk Caddy makes the perfect gift for anyone and can be altered for men, women or children – simply change out the Designer Series Paper and embellishments to customize, add a coordinating greeting card and you are set!  Or make one for your own desk or make several to sell at Craft Shows!  Head on over to Craft Project Central and subscribe to the month of March for full step-by-step instructions!

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?