The emails to the selected Creative Team have been sent and we can't wait to introduce them to you! There is such a wide range of styles that it's going to be fun to see what each does with the sketches. You'll see sketches used in so many different ways that the inspiration is bound to be overflowing. I know I've said it a million times but, I'm so excited to get started!
I also want to send out a big thank you to everyone that entered. It was so hard to narrow it down from over 60 entries to 13 for the team. We had no idea what to expect as far as the number of entries go and we were thrilled that so many applied. Mom, Stacey, and I sat down after stuffing ourselves with Thanksgiving dinner and looked over each and every entry. Believe me, it was a long sit down and was very, very tough. I wish we could find a way to pick everyone!
We also came to the decision that since it was so hard to narrow down that we are going to select 12 guest designers from the entries. We'll be sending out those emails sometime this week. The guest designers will differ a little from how I've been doing them here. At the new site the guest designers will be included for a month and have the opportunity to make several projects instead of just one.
In December we will start spilling some of the features we have planned for the new site. And January will be not only be the beginning of the new site but it will also be the one-year anniversary for Sketch Week. Even though it won't be called Sketch Week on the new site we are still going to celebrate the occasion. It's going to be a fun month of giveaways and lots of layouts.
Monday, November 29, 2010
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Happy Thanksgiving!
I'm getting ready to fill our house with the smell of this...
tasty,
messy,
pumpkintacular, ( I tend to make up words when I get excited.)
Four-Layer Pumpkin Cake
I never thought anything could top a good, traditional pumpkin pie until I stumbled across the recipe for this in an issue of Kraft Food and Family magazine. It is just pure pumpkin deliciousness! And, it's incredibly easy to make.
If you want to try it out yourself, you can find the recipe here.
Have a Happy Thanksgiving! :)
• Since we will all (the SG Publishing gals) be together for Thanksgiving, we'll be looking over the Creative Team entries. I've been looking through them and all I can say is WOW! It's going to be so hard to narrow down. We will be sending out the Creative Team emails on Monday. Did I mention this is going to be so hard to narrow down!?!
tasty,
messy,
pumpkintacular, ( I tend to make up words when I get excited.)
Four-Layer Pumpkin Cake
I never thought anything could top a good, traditional pumpkin pie until I stumbled across the recipe for this in an issue of Kraft Food and Family magazine. It is just pure pumpkin deliciousness! And, it's incredibly easy to make.
If you want to try it out yourself, you can find the recipe here.
Have a Happy Thanksgiving! :)
• Since we will all (the SG Publishing gals) be together for Thanksgiving, we'll be looking over the Creative Team entries. I've been looking through them and all I can say is WOW! It's going to be so hard to narrow down. We will be sending out the Creative Team emails on Monday. Did I mention this is going to be so hard to narrow down!?!
Monday, November 22, 2010
December Guest Designer
I tried. I really, really tried. However, it was impossible to pick just one. December Sketch Week will feature a layout from not one, but two fantastic scrapbookers...
Andrea Friebus and Liz Qualman
Thank you so much to all of you who entered. There were over 60 guest designer entries and I spent days looking over each and every one. It was such a delight for me to see all the different variations of the sketches, so many unique styles, and the sweet messages you wrote. It breaks my heart that I can't ask every single one of you to be a guest designer next month. But, we will continue the guest designers on the new site so I'm holding on to all the entries!
Thank you for the all the comments on the last post. I truly appreciate the kind words. It really stinks that so many of us can relate to losing a parent or a loved one but it is a comfort to know that I'm not alone. :)
Andrea Friebus and Liz Qualman
Thank you so much to all of you who entered. There were over 60 guest designer entries and I spent days looking over each and every one. It was such a delight for me to see all the different variations of the sketches, so many unique styles, and the sweet messages you wrote. It breaks my heart that I can't ask every single one of you to be a guest designer next month. But, we will continue the guest designers on the new site so I'm holding on to all the entries!
Thank you for the all the comments on the last post. I truly appreciate the kind words. It really stinks that so many of us can relate to losing a parent or a loved one but it is a comfort to know that I'm not alone. :)
Friday, November 19, 2010
Love/Hate
I swear, I blinked and Thanksgiving is almost here. Why is it that it feels like each year goes faster than the one before it?
I tend to have a love/hate relationship with Thanksgiving. The love side comes from seeing family (especially ones we don't see that often) and a big Thanksgiving meal x 3.
Each year we travel to and stuff our bellies at three different places. Each one has different family, different food, and different traditions. Thanksgiving wouldn't be the same without each one.
The hate side comes from the fact that Thanksgiving is always a big reminder that my dad isn't here. He died the day before Thanksgiving five years ago and I miss him more every single day.
I miss his jokes and how he would tell them to you over and over. It didn't matter if you told him you had heard it because he was going to tell you again anyway. I miss seeing what goofy t-shirt he has on. I miss the laughter that filled the room because of some story was telling. I miss seeing the sparkle in his eyes when he would make people laugh. I miss hearing him say "battree" instead of battery. Even though we weren't big on showing affection, I miss hugging him and would give anything to be able to do it again. I just miss him.
This year, even though I'm feeling a little sad, I am thankful for the 25 years I had with my dad and the wonderful memories that filled them.
I tend to have a love/hate relationship with Thanksgiving. The love side comes from seeing family (especially ones we don't see that often) and a big Thanksgiving meal x 3.
Each year we travel to and stuff our bellies at three different places. Each one has different family, different food, and different traditions. Thanksgiving wouldn't be the same without each one.
The hate side comes from the fact that Thanksgiving is always a big reminder that my dad isn't here. He died the day before Thanksgiving five years ago and I miss him more every single day.
I miss his jokes and how he would tell them to you over and over. It didn't matter if you told him you had heard it because he was going to tell you again anyway. I miss seeing what goofy t-shirt he has on. I miss the laughter that filled the room because of some story was telling. I miss seeing the sparkle in his eyes when he would make people laugh. I miss hearing him say "battree" instead of battery. Even though we weren't big on showing affection, I miss hugging him and would give anything to be able to do it again. I just miss him.
This year, even though I'm feeling a little sad, I am thankful for the 25 years I had with my dad and the wonderful memories that filled them.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Around the World
It's time to share another great group of layouts based off of our sketches from scrapbookers around the world.
I Love Fall by Amy Wheeler
Kentucky
Too Cute To Scare by Michele Edwards
Waterloo, Ontario
What Would I Change? by Jackie Morris
Wiltshire, England
Glacier Exploration by Sue Matthews
Elberton, Georgia
Friends by Jennifer Raymond
Kent, Washington
Red Squirrels at Kilnsey Park by Judith Armstrong
Bacchus Marsh, Victoria, Australia
The One and Only You by Julie
Missouri
Blowing Bubbles by Staci McDonough
Jackson, NJ
Thank you to all of you for sharing your layouts with us!
December will be the last time I'll be doing the Around the World post on this blog. If you would like your layout included in that post you can email it to me with "Around the World" in the subject line to alidavis1919@hotmail.com. You'll also need to include any links to blogs or galleries and where you are from. I look forward too seeing them!
Just because I won't be posting Around the World doesn't mean that I won't be sharing layouts from others. At the new site we'll be doing something similar. :)
Monday, November 15, 2010
Sketch Week, Wrap Up and Winners
Another Sketch Week comes to a close and so does the deadline for the Guest Designer for December. Today is the last day to get those entries in. I'll be announcing the GD next Monday. It's going to be tough to just pick one again.
Here's a closer look at all the layouts from Sketch Week together.
Thank you so much to American Crafts for the awesome giveaway and to Carolyn Wolff for contributing a fantastic layout as the Guest Designer! Mark your calendars, December Sketch Week will start on Monday, December 13.
The winner of the American Crafts giveaway is...
Laura said...
I love the way you used the circles to create the background for the layout! This would be an awesome way to use up all the little scraps of papers that we all can't bear to throw out.
The winner of the Sketches for Scrapbooking giveaway is...
janetk said...
What a wonderful layout, just fantastic work. I continue to be inspired! Thanks so much for sharing and all the wonderful instructions!
You can both email me at alidavis1919@hotmail.com with your shipping information and, janetk, which volume of Sketches for Scrapbooking you would like.
Happy Monday!
Here's a closer look at all the layouts from Sketch Week together.
The sketch.
Layout #1 - S.D.C. Ball Park
Layout #2 - Everything About You Brightens My Life
Layout #3 - Go Cardinals!
Layout #4 - The Day Before
Layout #5 - This is so Cool Dude by Carolyn Wolff
Thank you so much to American Crafts for the awesome giveaway and to Carolyn Wolff for contributing a fantastic layout as the Guest Designer! Mark your calendars, December Sketch Week will start on Monday, December 13.
The winner of the American Crafts giveaway is...
Laura said...
I love the way you used the circles to create the background for the layout! This would be an awesome way to use up all the little scraps of papers that we all can't bear to throw out.
The winner of the Sketches for Scrapbooking giveaway is...
janetk said...
What a wonderful layout, just fantastic work. I continue to be inspired! Thanks so much for sharing and all the wonderful instructions!
You can both email me at alidavis1919@hotmail.com with your shipping information and, janetk, which volume of Sketches for Scrapbooking you would like.
Happy Monday!
Friday, November 12, 2010
Sketch Week, Part 5
I am so very excited to introduce to you all today, Guest Designer Carolyn Wolff!
I don't think Carolyn even knows this but, she is one of the reasons why I started doing the Around the World post on my blog. I was looking through the gallery at Two Peas in a Bucket and saw a page of hers that used one of our sketches. It was so eye catching, detailed, and just all around great. How could I not share it with others? I know that you will instantly fall in love with her style, just like I did.
How long have you been scrapbooking?
I have been scrapbooking for about 9 years. I knew the minute I finished my first page that this was going to be a life long hobby for me.
Why did you start scrapbooking?
I have 3 children and I wanted to make memory albums for them. I thought when I first started that I would just do things like Christmas, birthdays, school photos, etc. I realized that each of my children did so many things that I wanted to capture. Let's just say that they have very thick albums.
What is your favorite "go-to" scrapbooking supply?
Wow, that is a tough one. I would have to say that my Vintage Photo Distress Ink is probably something I grab for each and every page. I also really like to add stitching so my needle and embroidery floss is a close second.
How often do you use sketches?
Since I discovered them I would say that I don't do a layout without them. They are the perfect starting point!
What do you love most about Scrapbook Generation's sketches?
I would have to say that my favourite part of these sketches is how they draw everything to the center of the page. I also love how they incorporate lots of photos but never make the pages feel cluttered.
What else can you tell us about yourself?
I have a soft spot in my heart for each one of my kids. They are the center of my life and they make me laugh every day. I have a super supportive husband that loves me, no matter what crazy things I get myself into. I LOVE hockey! My son Jason is a goalie and I never miss a game. We also have seasons tickets for our local OHL team and my hubby and I have a standing 'date' every Friday to attend the games.
The sketch that has been used as the starting point for all five layouts this week.
Products used: Pattern papers, stickers, die-cuts - Bella Blvd; Cardstock - Bazzill; Alpha stickers - Basic Grey; Chipboard - Scrap FX & Technique Tuesday; Mist - Tattered Angels; Brads - Making Memories; Buttons - unknown; Brown ink - Ranger; Sanding tools - Basic Grey
Layout details:
• To create the patterned paper background sheet, I hand cut the border from the paper.
• I used my sewing machine to add blue stitching to the pattern paper. It helps to define the space and pop it off the white background
• I arranged the photos very similar to the sketch. I added 2 smaller prints to the 4x6 spot on page 2. I also sanded the edges of each photo to help them stand out on the dark blue background. I always mat my photos.
• For the title, I used a variety of products......chipboard, stickers, pattern papers, etc. This creates a focal point on the page that helps to describe how Jason was feeling when we were on this trip. The arrow points to the photo of the artist doing his work. Jason was so fascinated by this.
• For the other embellishment areas, I added some buttons, die-cuts, stickers etc to tie in the theme of the page. I used foam adhesive on the stickers in the lower right corner of page 2 to create some dimension on my page and help balance out the title.
• I wanted my journaling to be present, but not stand out. I chose to used white for the journaling strips, but I added the square brads to help pull some of the yellow from the photos on page 1 over to page 2.
• I applied Vintage Photo Distress Ink to all of my pattern papers, cardstock (not the dark blue), stickers, die-cuts etc. I love how it softens the entire layout and pulls everything together.
Thank you, Carolyn, for sharing your layout with us today!
Today is the fifth chance for the American Crafts and Sketches for Scrapbooking giveaway.
And...don't forget, the deadline for the December Guest Designer is Monday, November 15 and the deadline for the Scrapbook Generation Publishing Creative Team is Monday, November 22. You can read all about the Creative Team requirements here.
Have a great weekend!
I don't think Carolyn even knows this but, she is one of the reasons why I started doing the Around the World post on my blog. I was looking through the gallery at Two Peas in a Bucket and saw a page of hers that used one of our sketches. It was so eye catching, detailed, and just all around great. How could I not share it with others? I know that you will instantly fall in love with her style, just like I did.
How long have you been scrapbooking?
I have been scrapbooking for about 9 years. I knew the minute I finished my first page that this was going to be a life long hobby for me.
Why did you start scrapbooking?
I have 3 children and I wanted to make memory albums for them. I thought when I first started that I would just do things like Christmas, birthdays, school photos, etc. I realized that each of my children did so many things that I wanted to capture. Let's just say that they have very thick albums.
What is your favorite "go-to" scrapbooking supply?
Wow, that is a tough one. I would have to say that my Vintage Photo Distress Ink is probably something I grab for each and every page. I also really like to add stitching so my needle and embroidery floss is a close second.
How often do you use sketches?
Since I discovered them I would say that I don't do a layout without them. They are the perfect starting point!
What do you love most about Scrapbook Generation's sketches?
I would have to say that my favourite part of these sketches is how they draw everything to the center of the page. I also love how they incorporate lots of photos but never make the pages feel cluttered.
What else can you tell us about yourself?
I have a soft spot in my heart for each one of my kids. They are the center of my life and they make me laugh every day. I have a super supportive husband that loves me, no matter what crazy things I get myself into. I LOVE hockey! My son Jason is a goalie and I never miss a game. We also have seasons tickets for our local OHL team and my hubby and I have a standing 'date' every Friday to attend the games.
The sketch that has been used as the starting point for all five layouts this week.
Layout #5 - This is so Cool Dude by Carolyn Wolff
Layout details:
• To create the patterned paper background sheet, I hand cut the border from the paper.
• I used my sewing machine to add blue stitching to the pattern paper. It helps to define the space and pop it off the white background
• I arranged the photos very similar to the sketch. I added 2 smaller prints to the 4x6 spot on page 2. I also sanded the edges of each photo to help them stand out on the dark blue background. I always mat my photos.
• For the title, I used a variety of products......chipboard, stickers, pattern papers, etc. This creates a focal point on the page that helps to describe how Jason was feeling when we were on this trip. The arrow points to the photo of the artist doing his work. Jason was so fascinated by this.
• For the other embellishment areas, I added some buttons, die-cuts, stickers etc to tie in the theme of the page. I used foam adhesive on the stickers in the lower right corner of page 2 to create some dimension on my page and help balance out the title.
• I wanted my journaling to be present, but not stand out. I chose to used white for the journaling strips, but I added the square brads to help pull some of the yellow from the photos on page 1 over to page 2.
• I applied Vintage Photo Distress Ink to all of my pattern papers, cardstock (not the dark blue), stickers, die-cuts etc. I love how it softens the entire layout and pulls everything together.
Thank you, Carolyn, for sharing your layout with us today!
Today is the fifth chance for the American Crafts and Sketches for Scrapbooking giveaway.
And...don't forget, the deadline for the December Guest Designer is Monday, November 15 and the deadline for the Scrapbook Generation Publishing Creative Team is Monday, November 22. You can read all about the Creative Team requirements here.
Have a great weekend!
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Sketch Week, Part 4
There are a lot of changes on my day four layout. It really shows that you can take what you want to use or what you have on hand and make it work.
The sketch that is the starting point for all five layouts this week.
Supply list - Cardstock: Bazzill; Patterned paper: Bella Blvd.; Word stickers: Creative Imaginations; Alphabets: BasicGrey (the), Imaginisce (Day), and American Crafts (before); Jewels: KaiserCraft; Chipboard stars: American Crafts and Scenic Route; Paint: Making Memories
Variation #1
Die cut papers are one of my favorite pieces to use for a large background. They add a fun, decorative touch to the page and can completely change the look of a sketch.
On my layout I didn't have a die cut patterned paper that matched the other patterned papers that I used so I made one myself. My go-to tools for doing that are stencils from Crafters Workshop. Not only is the stencil that I used a big shape but it also has a ton of other stencils and designs in the center.
One thing you might want to watch for when making your own die cut patterned papers is that they can look a little bland and flat. Most die cut patterned papers that you can buy have a frame of some sort around them. Usually it's a pattern in the middle with a solid frame or two around it. To get a similar look and to help the paper from looking flat I like to add a stitched border around the edge. You could also try brads, buttons, Memory Thread, word stickers, or ribbon as a border too.
Variation #2
I had these pictures left over from a frame that I made for Drew's room. When I order wallet prints they come with two so I'm always left with extras. The frame had mostly wallet prints so that was pretty much all I had to work with. I love wallet prints and use them often. They are great for shrinking a layout, similar what I've done with my layout today.
Shrinking a layout is also a great way to take a two-page sketch and turn it into a one-page layout. Wallets can also be a great help with that.
Variation #3
The wallet size worked well with the group of photos on the left page, but I didn't have enough to go all the way to the top and bottom edge of the layout. The problem that causes is a hole above and below the pictures between the two 1/2" strips of patterned paper on the left and right. On the sketch those two strips are arranged so that it appears that the paper goes behind that group of photos, so that was all I had to do fill the holes. Instead of using two small strips, I made a whole piece that goes behind the photos and fills in that hole above and below the pictures.
Variation #4
I had another wallet size photo that I really wanted to include on the layout. I couldn't add it to the large group of wallet photos because it was the only vertical one I had left and I would have needed two to complete that column of pictures.
My solution was to add it to the left by the title. Because I used smaller pictures I had plenty of room without cutting my title area too short.
Variation #5
On the right page I wanted to include more journaling so I used part of the space for one of the 4 x 6 photos. The only adjustment I had to make was moving the embellishment on the top over to the right of the journaling.
Variation #6
Out of all my photos I had one horizontal wallet. I thought it would work well underneath the journaling and overlapped onto the 4 x 6. There weren't any adjustments that I had to make to add that to the page. That's another thing I love about wallets, they are so easy to add to a layout and they are small enough that you can pretty much add them anywhere.
Variation #7
Instead of circles I went with chipboard stars on this layout. I also added stitching around the biggest star on the right page.
Stitching on chipboard is completely doable and really, isn't any more difficult than stitching on paper. I would recommend that when you pierce the holes that you make sure your foam board is on a hard surface. This will keep the chipboard from wrinkling when you push the piercer through.
Day four = the fourth chance to win the American Crafts and Sketches for Scrapbooking giveaway.
The sketch that is the starting point for all five layouts this week.
Layout #2 - The Day Before
Variation #1
Die cut papers are one of my favorite pieces to use for a large background. They add a fun, decorative touch to the page and can completely change the look of a sketch.
On my layout I didn't have a die cut patterned paper that matched the other patterned papers that I used so I made one myself. My go-to tools for doing that are stencils from Crafters Workshop. Not only is the stencil that I used a big shape but it also has a ton of other stencils and designs in the center.
One thing you might want to watch for when making your own die cut patterned papers is that they can look a little bland and flat. Most die cut patterned papers that you can buy have a frame of some sort around them. Usually it's a pattern in the middle with a solid frame or two around it. To get a similar look and to help the paper from looking flat I like to add a stitched border around the edge. You could also try brads, buttons, Memory Thread, word stickers, or ribbon as a border too.
Variation #2
I had these pictures left over from a frame that I made for Drew's room. When I order wallet prints they come with two so I'm always left with extras. The frame had mostly wallet prints so that was pretty much all I had to work with. I love wallet prints and use them often. They are great for shrinking a layout, similar what I've done with my layout today.
Shrinking a layout is also a great way to take a two-page sketch and turn it into a one-page layout. Wallets can also be a great help with that.
Variation #3
The wallet size worked well with the group of photos on the left page, but I didn't have enough to go all the way to the top and bottom edge of the layout. The problem that causes is a hole above and below the pictures between the two 1/2" strips of patterned paper on the left and right. On the sketch those two strips are arranged so that it appears that the paper goes behind that group of photos, so that was all I had to do fill the holes. Instead of using two small strips, I made a whole piece that goes behind the photos and fills in that hole above and below the pictures.
Variation #4
I had another wallet size photo that I really wanted to include on the layout. I couldn't add it to the large group of wallet photos because it was the only vertical one I had left and I would have needed two to complete that column of pictures.
My solution was to add it to the left by the title. Because I used smaller pictures I had plenty of room without cutting my title area too short.
Variation #5
On the right page I wanted to include more journaling so I used part of the space for one of the 4 x 6 photos. The only adjustment I had to make was moving the embellishment on the top over to the right of the journaling.
Variation #6
Out of all my photos I had one horizontal wallet. I thought it would work well underneath the journaling and overlapped onto the 4 x 6. There weren't any adjustments that I had to make to add that to the page. That's another thing I love about wallets, they are so easy to add to a layout and they are small enough that you can pretty much add them anywhere.
Variation #7
Instead of circles I went with chipboard stars on this layout. I also added stitching around the biggest star on the right page.
Stitching on chipboard is completely doable and really, isn't any more difficult than stitching on paper. I would recommend that when you pierce the holes that you make sure your foam board is on a hard surface. This will keep the chipboard from wrinkling when you push the piercer through.
Day four = the fourth chance to win the American Crafts and Sketches for Scrapbooking giveaway.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Sketch Week, Part 3
You've probably noticed from the last two layouts that the background piece is one of the main things I altered on the sketch this week. Today's layout is yet another way to change up the look with, (or I guess I should say without) that background.
The sketch that is the starting point for all five layouts this week.
Supply list - Cardstock: Bazzill; Patterned paper: Fancy Pants (red), My Mind's Eye (dotted); Word stickers: Making Memories; Alphabets: American Crafts
Variation #1
So far this week I've shown you how much you can do with that background piece and all because it's just that, the background. There isn't anything on the layout design-wise that relies on that background. Today I've gone in the opposite direction of enhancing that piece like I have on the last two layouts and completely removed the background.
My reason for removing the background had to do with the pictures I wanted to use on my page. They were full of bright, bold colors and looked even brighter against the white cardstock, which I loved.
Because the background requires two pieces of paper, this is a great option for those times when you are kicking yourself for not picking up two pieces of that patterned paper. There are plenty of pictures, embellishments and additional pieces of patterned paper that your layout shouldn't look too bare without the background.
Variation #2
If you remove that background piece and do feel that it looks bare you can always add more pieces of patterned paper. On my layout I added another strip across the bottom of the page. You could add a lot more than I did too, like maybe three 1" strips.
Variation #3
Stacey and I ended up getting a chance to go down on the field before the game and I got one particular photo that I just instantly fell in love with. It captured a piece of the incredible beauty of Busch Stadium and you can see a glimpse of The Arch in the background. I knew that I wanted this photo to stand out on my page and one of the easiest ways to do that was to enlarge it.
The adjustments to include a 5 x 7 on the left page were very minor. I lost a little bit of space for my title but it happened to work out perfectly with the photo I was using. I just extended my title across the bottom of the 5 x 7.
Variation #4
Around the 5 x 7 I created a collage of smaller photos and included pieces of one of our tickets from the game. I always like to include memorabilia on my pages when I can and I was so happy when I found these tickets tucked into the pocket of my suitcase. They helped to complete the collage of photos on the left page.
Variation #5
I stuck with the circles on the sketch for my embellishments, mostly because of well, what else better to embellishment a page about a Cardinals game without baseballs. On the right page I used larger baseballs than the one of the left page. This was to help fill all that white space on the right page.
How to make the baseballs:
• You need three different sized circles for the baseball and then one extra of the largest circle you are using for a template. I like mine to be about 1/8" to 1/4" different in size.
• I always recommend inking the edges when layering pieces like this. It helps each individual layer to stand out.
• Lay the three circles on top of each other with the largest on the bottom and the smallest on the top. You might want to use removable adhesive if you have it.
• Use the extra circle as a guide for your stitched lines by laying it over the three circles and tracing around the edge of it.
• On the top circle, the smallest, pierce holes along the pencil line. Also add in holes for the "v" part of the stitching.
• Using three strands of embroidery floss, stitch along the lines using a back stitch. When you get to the edge, make a small indention on the edge and wrap your floss around to the back and adhere.
• For the other two circles you only need to stitch those four little lines that you made with a pencil. There's no need to stitch anymore than that since it will be covered by the circle above it.
• After all the stitching is done, adhere them all together with foam adhesive.
Variation #6
I still had one more ticket from the game that I was determined to use on the layout. I didn't really want to cut this one up so I used it as a decorative piece behind the title.
Day three = third chance to win the American Crafts and Sketches for Scrapbooking giveaway.
The sketch that is the starting point for all five layouts this week.
Layout #2 - Go Cardinals!
Variation #1
So far this week I've shown you how much you can do with that background piece and all because it's just that, the background. There isn't anything on the layout design-wise that relies on that background. Today I've gone in the opposite direction of enhancing that piece like I have on the last two layouts and completely removed the background.
My reason for removing the background had to do with the pictures I wanted to use on my page. They were full of bright, bold colors and looked even brighter against the white cardstock, which I loved.
Because the background requires two pieces of paper, this is a great option for those times when you are kicking yourself for not picking up two pieces of that patterned paper. There are plenty of pictures, embellishments and additional pieces of patterned paper that your layout shouldn't look too bare without the background.
Variation #2
If you remove that background piece and do feel that it looks bare you can always add more pieces of patterned paper. On my layout I added another strip across the bottom of the page. You could add a lot more than I did too, like maybe three 1" strips.
Variation #3
Stacey and I ended up getting a chance to go down on the field before the game and I got one particular photo that I just instantly fell in love with. It captured a piece of the incredible beauty of Busch Stadium and you can see a glimpse of The Arch in the background. I knew that I wanted this photo to stand out on my page and one of the easiest ways to do that was to enlarge it.
The adjustments to include a 5 x 7 on the left page were very minor. I lost a little bit of space for my title but it happened to work out perfectly with the photo I was using. I just extended my title across the bottom of the 5 x 7.
Variation #4
Around the 5 x 7 I created a collage of smaller photos and included pieces of one of our tickets from the game. I always like to include memorabilia on my pages when I can and I was so happy when I found these tickets tucked into the pocket of my suitcase. They helped to complete the collage of photos on the left page.
Variation #5
I stuck with the circles on the sketch for my embellishments, mostly because of well, what else better to embellishment a page about a Cardinals game without baseballs. On the right page I used larger baseballs than the one of the left page. This was to help fill all that white space on the right page.
How to make the baseballs:
• You need three different sized circles for the baseball and then one extra of the largest circle you are using for a template. I like mine to be about 1/8" to 1/4" different in size.
• I always recommend inking the edges when layering pieces like this. It helps each individual layer to stand out.
• Lay the three circles on top of each other with the largest on the bottom and the smallest on the top. You might want to use removable adhesive if you have it.
• Use the extra circle as a guide for your stitched lines by laying it over the three circles and tracing around the edge of it.
• On the top circle, the smallest, pierce holes along the pencil line. Also add in holes for the "v" part of the stitching.
• Using three strands of embroidery floss, stitch along the lines using a back stitch. When you get to the edge, make a small indention on the edge and wrap your floss around to the back and adhere.
• For the other two circles you only need to stitch those four little lines that you made with a pencil. There's no need to stitch anymore than that since it will be covered by the circle above it.
• After all the stitching is done, adhere them all together with foam adhesive.
Variation #6
I still had one more ticket from the game that I was determined to use on the layout. I didn't really want to cut this one up so I used it as a decorative piece behind the title.
Day three = third chance to win the American Crafts and Sketches for Scrapbooking giveaway.
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Sketch Week, Part 2
Thank you so much for the get well wishes. I am feeling so much better this morning. And just in time for a sunny layout. Today's version of the sketch shows you how to add a fun, decorative addition to that background piece without taking the focus away from the photos.
The sketch that is the starting point for all five layouts this week.
Supply list - Brown alphabets: Doodlebug Designs, everything else is from the American Crafts City Park collection
Variation #1
If you've been reading my blog for awhile you've probably noticed that suns seem to be one of my favorite design elements to use. It's like I challenge myself to find a new way to make them.
On today's layout I made a large sun that stretches across the background block of paper. Adding a large design across a background piece can be done on most pages but there is something you might want to watch out for.
If your pictures are full of lots of bold colors you might want to stay away from such a detailed and busy design on the background. There is a possibility that your pictures will get lost in that design. Of course there are always ways to fix that by framing the photos by either adding a mat or edging the pictures with paint or ink. And, of course, there are always exceptions with certain designs or elements that will work.
On my layout the pictures contain a few colors and the pictures are very similar. The lack of color and similar pictures allowed me to easily add a bold design on the background without the need to frame my pictures or worry about them getting lost in the design.
Tips for making the sun:
• I begin by finding my starting point, which is the circle/body of the sun. Since the sun rays go underneath the circle I traced around it and then set it aside.
• I don't get too technical and worry about perfect measurements for the rays. I use a ruler and trace a slant on the patterned paper and then cut it out.
• I recommend starting with a few bigger rays and attaching them first. Then you can go back and fill in the holes with smaller strips of paper and hand stitching.
• When you are going across two pages you'll need to make two different rays so that the whole design stretches across. I make the largest one first and then lay a ruler next to it extending past the side that I will be extending on the page. You'll do this on both the top and bottom of that side. Then you trace line and cut the ray out.
Variation #2
I had a lot more photos that I wanted to include on this layout than what the sketch called for. An easy fix for that problem is to use multiple smaller photos in place of a large photo. I ended up using two 3 x 4 photos in place of each 6 x 4 photo on the left page. This is the easiest way to use smaller prints for a larger photo, by cutting the large size in half and cropping two smaller photos. The two smaller photos still make up the same 6 x 4 size as the larger photo did.
Variation #3
While I'm on the subject of photos, on the right page I used another smaller photo in place of one of the 4 x 6 photos. Today's reason, however, is different from yesterday's. I only had one vertical 4 x 6 with this group of pictures. If I wanted to include another photo, like on the sketch, then I was going to have to use a horizontal. Using the full horizontal 4 x 6 would have covered more of the paper than I wanted and this photo was a perfect one for cropping down. It had a lot of empty space that I could easily crop out of the photo.
Variation #4
One of the good things about using a smaller photo on the right page is that it left me with more space for my journaling. I used journaling strips instead of journaling directly onto the background as it is on the sketch. With the design (and yesterday's) the journaling would have been lost in all the papers and colors. Journaling strips where an easy solution to make sure my story stood out.
Variation #5
While I did keep one of my embellishments as a circle, the other two are different.
The circle embellishment on the left page acts as the center of my sun. I used an American Crafts felt embellishment for the center and then added circles of patterned paper underneath it.
For the remaining two embellishments on the right page I used more American Crafts felt embellishments and added patterned paper behind them. The hardest part about such a bold design on a page is making sure that everything else on the page stands out against it. The added patterned paper to the felt embellishments helped them to stand out more since I would add ink to the edges of the paper.
Day two means is your second chance for the American Crafts and Sketches for Scrapbooking Giveaway.
The sketch that is the starting point for all five layouts this week.
Layout #2 - Everything About You Brightens My Life
Supply list - Brown alphabets: Doodlebug Designs, everything else is from the American Crafts City Park collection
Variation #1
If you've been reading my blog for awhile you've probably noticed that suns seem to be one of my favorite design elements to use. It's like I challenge myself to find a new way to make them.
On today's layout I made a large sun that stretches across the background block of paper. Adding a large design across a background piece can be done on most pages but there is something you might want to watch out for.
If your pictures are full of lots of bold colors you might want to stay away from such a detailed and busy design on the background. There is a possibility that your pictures will get lost in that design. Of course there are always ways to fix that by framing the photos by either adding a mat or edging the pictures with paint or ink. And, of course, there are always exceptions with certain designs or elements that will work.
On my layout the pictures contain a few colors and the pictures are very similar. The lack of color and similar pictures allowed me to easily add a bold design on the background without the need to frame my pictures or worry about them getting lost in the design.
Tips for making the sun:
• I begin by finding my starting point, which is the circle/body of the sun. Since the sun rays go underneath the circle I traced around it and then set it aside.
• I don't get too technical and worry about perfect measurements for the rays. I use a ruler and trace a slant on the patterned paper and then cut it out.
• I recommend starting with a few bigger rays and attaching them first. Then you can go back and fill in the holes with smaller strips of paper and hand stitching.
• When you are going across two pages you'll need to make two different rays so that the whole design stretches across. I make the largest one first and then lay a ruler next to it extending past the side that I will be extending on the page. You'll do this on both the top and bottom of that side. Then you trace line and cut the ray out.
Variation #2
I had a lot more photos that I wanted to include on this layout than what the sketch called for. An easy fix for that problem is to use multiple smaller photos in place of a large photo. I ended up using two 3 x 4 photos in place of each 6 x 4 photo on the left page. This is the easiest way to use smaller prints for a larger photo, by cutting the large size in half and cropping two smaller photos. The two smaller photos still make up the same 6 x 4 size as the larger photo did.
Variation #3
While I'm on the subject of photos, on the right page I used another smaller photo in place of one of the 4 x 6 photos. Today's reason, however, is different from yesterday's. I only had one vertical 4 x 6 with this group of pictures. If I wanted to include another photo, like on the sketch, then I was going to have to use a horizontal. Using the full horizontal 4 x 6 would have covered more of the paper than I wanted and this photo was a perfect one for cropping down. It had a lot of empty space that I could easily crop out of the photo.
Variation #4
One of the good things about using a smaller photo on the right page is that it left me with more space for my journaling. I used journaling strips instead of journaling directly onto the background as it is on the sketch. With the design (and yesterday's) the journaling would have been lost in all the papers and colors. Journaling strips where an easy solution to make sure my story stood out.
Variation #5
While I did keep one of my embellishments as a circle, the other two are different.
The circle embellishment on the left page acts as the center of my sun. I used an American Crafts felt embellishment for the center and then added circles of patterned paper underneath it.
For the remaining two embellishments on the right page I used more American Crafts felt embellishments and added patterned paper behind them. The hardest part about such a bold design on a page is making sure that everything else on the page stands out against it. The added patterned paper to the felt embellishments helped them to stand out more since I would add ink to the edges of the paper.
Day two means is your second chance for the American Crafts and Sketches for Scrapbooking Giveaway.
Monday, November 8, 2010
Sketch Week, Part 1
After spending last night sick I'm hoping that Sketch Week will make me feel better! Thank goodness for laptops and warm, comfy blankets.
Can you believe that in January it will go from Sketch Week to Sketch Month? That alone is enough to already have me feeling a little better.
For the last two Sketch Weeks the sketches have been a little heavy on the design side. I tried on a few of my layouts to show you ways to simplify it. This week I'm doing the opposite. The sketch is on more of the simple side and I'm going to show you some ways to amp it up. And on Friday, I'll introduce you to this week's Guest Designer, Carolyn. Trust me, you'll love her layout!
We've also got a new sponsor for November, American Crafts. They've put together a fabulous giveaway for this week!
The sketch that is used as the starting point for each layout this week.
• The sketch is available to download and print by clicking here. The printable version has the full sketch with all the measurements and placements.
Supply list - Everything is from the American Crafts City Park Collection.
Variation #1
One thing I love about sketches with a large background is the many, many possibilities you have to play around with it. Because it is behind everything on the layout you can do almost anything without having to adjust anything else on the layout. On today's layout I used 1" circles in place of the background block of paper. Together all of the circles are the same size as the block of paper, it's just divided into several different pieces.
I had decided circles would be a fun addition to the page and would be a good support for the theme of the layout and the pictures. Any shape would work for this. Just think of any small shape punches you might have like stars, hearts, squares, butterflies, etc.
Variation #2
Because I had so many circles on the background I tried to stay away from using circles for my embellishments as well. With the busy background I went with simple tags in the three embellishment areas.
Variation #3
Even if you aren't completely comfortable with changing up the elements on the sketch, (like adding more paper, using larger embellishments, removing elements, etc.), you can always get a different look by simply flipping the sketch. Flipping the sketch, like I have done with mine, is incredibly easy to do and gives the layout a different look.
Variation #4
There are always ways to add enlargements to a sketch and usually it only takes a few minor adjustments. I substituted a 5 x 7 for one of the 4 x 6 photos. If you think about it, it's only a 1" difference which isn't really a lot.
Variation #5
Number five is actually two variations in one because they both worked together. Because I added the 5 x 7 I ended up leaving myself very little room for my journaling. Instead of trying to squeeze a few lines of journaling in above the picture and limiting my story I decided to use a smaller photo for the other 4 x 6 photo. This gave me plenty of room for the journaling beside the 5 x 7 and above the smaller photo.
Now, take a look at this awesome giveaway from American Crafts...
That is a ton of product - cardstock, patterned paper, lots of embellishments, tags, brads, ribbon, journaling stickers, Thickers...it is a lot of stuff! And you can never, ever have enough Thickers!
In addition to the American Crafts giveaway I'll also be doing a giveaway for a copy of Sketches for Scrapbooking, volume choice is all yours.
I'll be posting everyday, Monday - Friday. All week you'll have a chance to leave a comment and next Monday I'll post the winners. You can leave more than one comment through the week to be eligible (five days = five chances to win!) but not on the same day.
Can you believe that in January it will go from Sketch Week to Sketch Month? That alone is enough to already have me feeling a little better.
For the last two Sketch Weeks the sketches have been a little heavy on the design side. I tried on a few of my layouts to show you ways to simplify it. This week I'm doing the opposite. The sketch is on more of the simple side and I'm going to show you some ways to amp it up. And on Friday, I'll introduce you to this week's Guest Designer, Carolyn. Trust me, you'll love her layout!
We've also got a new sponsor for November, American Crafts. They've put together a fabulous giveaway for this week!
The sketch that is used as the starting point for each layout this week.
Layout #1 - S.D.C. Ball Park
Supply list - Everything is from the American Crafts City Park Collection.
Variation #1
One thing I love about sketches with a large background is the many, many possibilities you have to play around with it. Because it is behind everything on the layout you can do almost anything without having to adjust anything else on the layout. On today's layout I used 1" circles in place of the background block of paper. Together all of the circles are the same size as the block of paper, it's just divided into several different pieces.
I had decided circles would be a fun addition to the page and would be a good support for the theme of the layout and the pictures. Any shape would work for this. Just think of any small shape punches you might have like stars, hearts, squares, butterflies, etc.
Variation #2
Because I had so many circles on the background I tried to stay away from using circles for my embellishments as well. With the busy background I went with simple tags in the three embellishment areas.
Variation #3
Even if you aren't completely comfortable with changing up the elements on the sketch, (like adding more paper, using larger embellishments, removing elements, etc.), you can always get a different look by simply flipping the sketch. Flipping the sketch, like I have done with mine, is incredibly easy to do and gives the layout a different look.
Variation #4
There are always ways to add enlargements to a sketch and usually it only takes a few minor adjustments. I substituted a 5 x 7 for one of the 4 x 6 photos. If you think about it, it's only a 1" difference which isn't really a lot.
Variation #5
Number five is actually two variations in one because they both worked together. Because I added the 5 x 7 I ended up leaving myself very little room for my journaling. Instead of trying to squeeze a few lines of journaling in above the picture and limiting my story I decided to use a smaller photo for the other 4 x 6 photo. This gave me plenty of room for the journaling beside the 5 x 7 and above the smaller photo.
Now, take a look at this awesome giveaway from American Crafts...
That is a ton of product - cardstock, patterned paper, lots of embellishments, tags, brads, ribbon, journaling stickers, Thickers...it is a lot of stuff! And you can never, ever have enough Thickers!
In addition to the American Crafts giveaway I'll also be doing a giveaway for a copy of Sketches for Scrapbooking, volume choice is all yours.
I'll be posting everyday, Monday - Friday. All week you'll have a chance to leave a comment and next Monday I'll post the winners. You can leave more than one comment through the week to be eligible (five days = five chances to win!) but not on the same day.
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
SG Publishing Creative Team Call
On Monday we announced the news of Scrapbook Generation's expansion and today it is time for some Scrapbook Generation Publishing news.
We are thrilled to announced our SG Publishing/Allison Davis Creative Team call. On January 1, 2011 we will be launching a new site with all sketches, all the time. You asked for Sketch Month and that is what you are getting.
The new site will feature not just two-page sketches but one-page sketches, card sketches, and something a little different, add-on sketches. I'll share some more details as we get closer to the launch date. To help make this possible, we are looking for a creative team.
The SG Publishing Creative Team duties will be creating a minimum of two projects per month. Sharing your projects from the sketches on your blog or in your online gallery are expected as well, however, a blog and online gallery are not requirements, just a big plus.
Below you will find three sketches (a two-page, a one-page, and a card) that you'll use for your entry.
You can download and print them by clicking here. The two-page sketch is from August Sketch Week and it will be on the bottom of the printable sketches page. The card and the one-page sketch will be at the top of the page.
To enter you'll need to make three layouts, cards, or projects and email them to us at creativeteam@scrapbookgeneration.com. You can make three from the same sketch, or one of each, or two of one and one of another, whatever combination you want.
• address
• link to blog and online galleries
and answer these two questions.
• Do you mainly make two-page layouts, one-page layouts, cards, etc.?
• Why do you want to be on the SG Publishing Creative Team?
The deadline for submissions is Monday, November 22. We'll send out emails to the selected Creative Team on Monday, November 29. When you send in your submission you will receive a confirmation email within 24 hours.
• All styles of scrapbookers and card makers. This includes those that use 8 1/2" x 11", 8" x 8", 6" x 6", etc.
• The ability to take good pictures of the finished product.
If you have any questions don't hesitate to ask. We look forward to seeing your entries.
We are thrilled to announced our SG Publishing/Allison Davis Creative Team call. On January 1, 2011 we will be launching a new site with all sketches, all the time. You asked for Sketch Month and that is what you are getting.
The new site will feature not just two-page sketches but one-page sketches, card sketches, and something a little different, add-on sketches. I'll share some more details as we get closer to the launch date. To help make this possible, we are looking for a creative team.
The SG Publishing Creative Team duties will be creating a minimum of two projects per month. Sharing your projects from the sketches on your blog or in your online gallery are expected as well, however, a blog and online gallery are not requirements, just a big plus.
Below you will find three sketches (a two-page, a one-page, and a card) that you'll use for your entry.
You can download and print them by clicking here. The two-page sketch is from August Sketch Week and it will be on the bottom of the printable sketches page. The card and the one-page sketch will be at the top of the page.
To enter you'll need to make three layouts, cards, or projects and email them to us at creativeteam@scrapbookgeneration.com. You can make three from the same sketch, or one of each, or two of one and one of another, whatever combination you want.
In your submission entry you'll also need to include:
• your name• address
• link to blog and online galleries
and answer these two questions.
• Do you mainly make two-page layouts, one-page layouts, cards, etc.?
• Why do you want to be on the SG Publishing Creative Team?
The deadline for submissions is Monday, November 22. We'll send out emails to the selected Creative Team on Monday, November 29. When you send in your submission you will receive a confirmation email within 24 hours.
What we are looking for:
• Scrapbookers and card makers who are comfortable using sketches and have the ability to fit them to their style.• All styles of scrapbookers and card makers. This includes those that use 8 1/2" x 11", 8" x 8", 6" x 6", etc.
• The ability to take good pictures of the finished product.
If you have any questions don't hesitate to ask. We look forward to seeing your entries.
Monday, November 1, 2010
Exciting News
We've been keeping a pretty big secret at Scrapbook Generation lately. Mom and Stacey both had some pretty good torture and teasing going on about it on the store blog and facebook. I opted out of joining in on my blog for fear of too much torture.
After six years Scrapbook Generation is moving to a new, bigger location. And the great part is it's just a few steps away. We don't even have to change our address or haul stuff far for the move. The men in our lives are loving that part.
You won't believe it when you see the size of this place. We are going from a 3,000 square foot space to 5,000. Our classroom area is going to almost double as well. We'll also have two offices, one for Scrapbook Generation and one for Scrapbook Generation Publishing, and an entrance area when you first walk into the store.
It's is going to be awesome! The size of this place will shock you. It is amazing and we are beyond excited to make the big move and fill all the extra space with new products. Words can't even explain just how excited we are.
This isn't the only news I have to share with you this week. Check back on Wednesday, I've got another announcement and fun news to spill.
Happy Monday!
After six years Scrapbook Generation is moving to a new, bigger location. And the great part is it's just a few steps away. We don't even have to change our address or haul stuff far for the move. The men in our lives are loving that part.
You won't believe it when you see the size of this place. We are going from a 3,000 square foot space to 5,000. Our classroom area is going to almost double as well. We'll also have two offices, one for Scrapbook Generation and one for Scrapbook Generation Publishing, and an entrance area when you first walk into the store.
It's is going to be awesome! The size of this place will shock you. It is amazing and we are beyond excited to make the big move and fill all the extra space with new products. Words can't even explain just how excited we are.
This isn't the only news I have to share with you this week. Check back on Wednesday, I've got another announcement and fun news to spill.
Happy Monday!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)