Kinda Krafty...eh?

Annecy...

2012-02-21T11:13:00.004-04:00

It's Case #7 over at CSI...!!

Thank heavens for challenges, because I would NEVER have knowningly worked with this color combination!! hee hee...especially pink and lavender ( shudder )

As the hidden journaling states:
"1. Annecy is considered to be one of the oldest sites in the Northern Alps, dating back to 2,500 B.C.
2. It is situated at the tip of the glacial Lake Annecy, the second largest lake in France.
3. It exchanged hands many times between Italy and France, before finally falling under permanent French rule in 1401.
This is one of the most naturally beautiful cities I have ever seen, filled with historic buildings, picturesque canals, framed with flowers, quaint shoppes and wonderful restaurants.
The most amazing thing to me is that it seems to be be one of France's best kept secrets!!
Ooh la la..."

:)
Debbi...

Products used:
Pink, Lavender, Turquoise & Black Cardstock: American Crafts
Grey design Paper: Fancy Pants - Splendid Collection #508 - by Michelle Coleman
Fussy Cut Flower Paper : Crate Paper - Cottage Collection Kit
Cardstock Stickers: Crate Paper - Bliss Collection Kit
Alphas: From my stash
Woodgrain stamp used on paper strips and Alphas: Cornish Heritage Farms - SL-3143WUM
Ink: Distress inks - Walnut Stain & Vintage Photo
Embossed Metal Strips from a Sizzix emossing folder and Metal Foil Tape - distressed with Rubb'n'Buff Spanish Copper

HE DIDN'T TELL ME HOW TO LIVE...

2012-02-16T15:18:00.000-04:00

It's Case #6 over at CSI...and what fun!!
I love this photo of both my son D'Arcy and North Cape which is about a 15 minute drive from home..Ours is a wee Island in the North Atlantic but it's home to me...and I love every square inch of it!!
I have this photo as my background on my iPad..and I found myself staring it all the time...soooo I scrapped it!! hee hee

As the journalling states:

"This photo taken of my son D'Arcy by his partner Philip,
struck a deep chord in me of such admiration for the
courage it took to overcome his deepest fears & enabled
him to lead an authentic life... and the humbling gratitude
I feel that he never lost his incredible sense of adventure
& joy...but most of all, that light and gift of being able
to bring that out in others...Lucky me to have been his
Mom"

:)
Debbi...

Products Used:
Woodgrain Stamp: Cornish Heritage Farms - SL-3143WUM
Ink: Stazon -Timber brown; Tim Holtz Distress Ink - Walnut Stain
Design Papers: My Minds Eye - Penny Lane; DCWV - World Traveller; Crate Paper - Season Collection Spring
Tim Holtz Alteration Die - Gadget Gears
Metal Foil Tape
Rub'n'Buff - Spanish Copper
Word Stickers: 7Gypsies - 97% Complete word stickers "Time" "Travel Voyage"
Word Border: Fancy Pancy - Papa Title Strips #633
Date Stamp: Staples
Buttons: My Stash

You are so Cut Off...

2012-02-09T16:56:00.003-04:00

As the journaling states:

"It's always funny to see those photos that say "Ooops"...

As I was looking through your pics from you cruise to Spain & Portugal in 2010... these two photos made me laugh!!!

...To me they are just as personal and fun as all those other wonderful vacation snapshots are!!!

xoxo Mom"

My daughter Jordan took many great pics.. but these two were ...cut off!! hee hee

Debbi

Products Used:

White cardstock: American Crafts

Dymo

Alphas from my stash

Camera Stamp: Imaginisce - Snap 'em

Polka Dot Stamp: American Craft - Baby

Film Strip Stamp: Tim Holtz - The Journey

Flower Stamp: SandyLion Stamps - Funtastick Flowers by Kelly Panacci

Leaf Stamp: Anita's Stamps

Sentiment Stamp: Hampton Art - Cling Word Borders by Kelly Panacci

Inks: Colorbox Fluid Chalk - Chestnut Roan, Olive Pastel, Lipstick Red, Lime Pastel

Film Strip Die Cut: Tim Holtz Alteration Die - Film Strip

Oooh My....I received the Liebster Blog Award!!..

2012-02-02T16:19:00.006-04:00

You just NEVER know who's looking, eh??...... hee hee

I started this blog primarily to share my "stuff" with family and friends..especially my scrappy friends... who would ask.... "Can I see that Layout you did?"... or..."Can you show me how you made that??"..

It's always nice to see other folks finding tips or inspiration from anything I have posted here but to get an award....wow.......... I am THRILLED!!

This award comes from a very sweet lady, by the name of Linda Pekrul ( who I don't even know..... yet!!).. she can be found over on her VERY Creative Blog site: Blue Sky Scrapping - http://blueskyscrapping.blogspot.com/

This award means SO much because it is from fellow scrappers:

"Liebster" is a German word meaning dearest, beloved or favorite, and the Liebster Award is sort of a chain letter among bloggers that's inteded to showcase exceptional up-and-coming blogs (typically, those with 200 or fewer followers). There's no evaluation committee or formal award process for the Liebster, but in a way it's even nicer - it's recognition that a peer has noticed and appreciated your hard work.

Here are the rules:

Choose 5 up-and-coming blogs of fewer than 200 followers to award the Liebster to.

Show your thanks to the blogger who gave you the award by linking back to them.

Post the award on your blog. Link back to the blogs you have given the Liebster to so everyone else can pay them a visit.

Thank you Linda!! I will be posting and sharing this award with 5 bloggers by tomorrow...( I have some ladies coming over to scrap tonight and need to get ready for them....)

Yay!!....Can't wait to share it!!
:)
Debbi

Look I did it...

2012-01-31T10:56:00.003-04:00

It's week 4 over at CSI ( http://csicolorstoriesinspiration.ning.com ) .... and oh what a challenge...color and embellishment choices that I would never have made for myself.... and just as importantly.. a fun and relaxed group of folks....so head on over and play along...

As I looked over the layout suggestions...I immediately thought of these photos that I had taken of Liam last summer... right after his 4th birthday... when he received his new Roller Blades and safety Gear...

He just HAD to do it all by himself!!.. and you know what.... he did!! hee hee

:)
Debbi...

Products used:

Designer paper, brads, small alphas, decorative strips: Echo Park - Happy Days
Black & Beige Cardstock: American Crafts
Black Foam Alphas: My Stash
Tan Brown Tulle: My Stash
Teal & Blak Paint Splatter: DecoArt Acrylic Paint
#4 Stamp: Autumn Leaves - Mindy's Alphas by Mindy Terasawa
Ink: Stazon - Jet Black
Date Stamp: Staples
Ink: Color Box Fluid Chalk - Creamy Brown
Washi Tape: Tim Holtz
Tan Colored Stars: Cricut Cart - A Child's Year; Paper by DCWV's The NATURAL Cardstock Stack #PS-005-00086
Staples: Mini Attacher - Tim Holtz
Bar Code from the Actual 12"x12" bottom strip off the Happy Days Design Paper

Black Frame was hand cut

Attagirl...

2012-01-25T10:46:00.002-04:00

Maybe it's the time of year...when old man winter puts me in hibernation mode....and because of that, I am so glad for Scrapbook Challenges...especially the fun ones over at CSI.... this is Challenge 3..with colors like Lavender..that I would rarely if EVER work with!!

My grandaughter Kiara finally found her voice and asked to take Riding Lessons....something she has wanted to do since she was 5....well....as the journalling says....she had to overcome her shyness in order to ride better...it was so sincerely wonderful to watch that process in her...and I am one very proud Nonna!! hee hee

:)
Debbi...

Products used:

Design Papers: My Mind's Eye - Life Stories - "Description of Activity" & "Lavender Plaid"
Fussy Cut Flowers: K&Company - Tim Coffey - Blossomwood Collection
Cardstock: Lavender - American Crafts
Metallic Gray Vellum: from my stash
Stamps:
Doilies - Studio Calico
Vintage Blue - Glitz Designs
Year.o.graphy - Unity Stamp Company

Inks: Tim Holtz Distress - Vintage Photo & Walnut Stain
Punches: EK Success - Embossed Scallop & Notepad Edge
Title: Cricut Cartridge - A Child's Year

Oh Dear Me...

2012-01-18T17:40:00.004-04:00

I decided to enter a challenge over at CSI ( http://csicolorstoriesinspiration.ning.com/ )...they just began this website and it's proving to be a lot of fun place..... so head on over!!

Each week's "Case" is based on a Color "Scheme"...along with some interesting "Clues" found in the "Evidence" and "Testimony" files....what a trip!!.. hee hee

This particular Case lead me to seek out a much younger photo of myself... at 10....which is almost 50 years ago...( as I will be turning 60 this year) .and the journaling was to be about...advice.. or experiences in our journey...I found it to be a VERY emotional experience as I tried to write my journal...I kept looking at the face of this very sweet young girl.... and finding myself getting a wee bit teary..... okay... a LOT teary... hee hee..but then I found myself writing something truly heartfelt..and uplifting to me....

The journaling is hidden behind the older photo of myself... which you can see in one of the closeup photos....and it says:

"Oh Little Girl...I wish I could reach back through time
and simply hold you and tell you... in such a way that you
could truly hear me.... just how much I love you and no
matter who or what comes along...you are amazing..I remember
all those times you were afraid and lonely..but I am SO
grateful for your strength and courage, that got us here today...
Thank You....."

:)
Debbi...

Products Used:
Mini Ephemera from 7Gypsies
Ink: Colorbox Chalk - Wisteria
Fences Die Cuts: Cricut - Heritage Cartridge & EveryDay Paper Dolls
Design Paper: used to cut flowers from: Webster Pages - Love Note - #US1671D
Blue Mulberry, Corragated Paper and background Design Papers from my stash..
Acrylic Die Cut: Created using some acrylic packaging and my Sizzix Fancy Labels Framelits # 657575
Alpha: Doodlebug - Candy Shoppe - # 2163 beetle black
The yellow Alpha.. is an old Thickers one that I covered in some design paper.

and that's it folks!!

My Travel Log...

2012-01-14T13:03:00.001-04:00

I have so many beautiful pictures of my trip to Peggy's Cove last Fall.... but I didn't feel like making a 2-pager..and I really wanted to use that BIG awesome photo of the lighthouse and that one lonesome Seagull...

Did a LOT of stamping...I found the messier this page got... the better I liked it!! hee hee

And another point...I'd like to make... some of you will notice that my handwriting is ...well..... ummm... not very neat or tidy..... but it IS my handwriting and I think that is important to record...as much as the photos and story.....So don't be shy.... your children, grandchildren and all those down the road.... will appreciate that little bit of you... that you preserved...

:)
Debbi...

Products used:
Design Paper and Cut Outs: DCWV - World Traveller Stack
Stamps:
*Studio Calico - Jetsetter
*Artemio: #10001152
*Artemio: #10001140
*Toga: Destination Vacances
Inks:
*Colorbox Chalk : Ocean
*Tim Holtz Distress Inks: Vintage Photo - Walnut Stain - Crushed Olive
Paper Clip: - Tim Holtz Ideaology

Spooky Dude...

2012-01-11T08:10:00.001-04:00

I've had these papers from Fancy Pants for awhile now and found the perfect match for them with this photo of my grandson Liam...looking kinda ghoulish!! hee hee

I Glossy Accented the flourishes and pumkins along the bottom of the page.... cut out the pumkin's mouths...inserted the face painting pics...did a little tearing... et voila!!!

Oh and....if I had it to do over again....I would NOT have tried to journal on the textured side of the paper....!! hee hee ( hindsight, eh?? )

Products:
Fancy Pants Design Papers - Rip - Great Pumpkin
Black Cardstock - Bazzill
Glossy Accents - Ranger Industeries
Foam Alphas - Dollar Store

Metal Sign - Making Memories - Toil & Trouble
Other Embellishments - Making Memories - Spook Alley
Staples - Tim Holtz - Tiny Attacher
White Gel Pen - Signo Uniball

Shiver me Timbers...

2012-01-09T15:05:00.001-04:00

I scrap with a fun bunch of nutty ladies every Thursday night....and this was a project that I didn't get to complete from my last evening with them.... maybe too much giggling....and chatting....?? hee hee

My grandson Liam received a Pirate Shirt for his 4th birthday last July. He stripped right down and put it on and couldn't wait to show EVERYONE how cool he looked!!

Mixed up a whole lot of stuff here...

Green Background paper and border strip: Sassafras - Bungle Jungle - Bungle Dots
Journal Spots: Sassafras - Cardstock Stickers #21135
Stickers: Bella Blvd. - Super Stud
Green Foam Alphas: Dollar Store
Blue Alpha: Dymo
Brown Alphas: American Crafts - Gift Box
Blue Dots Backround Stamp: Gliz Designs - Distressing; Ink - Color Box Chalk - French Blue
Compass Stamps: Tim Holtz - Journey; Fiskars - Road Trip; SEI - En Route
Corrugated Cardstock & Burlap - from my stash

Captain Jack Sparrow ClipArt - Internet
:)

Fairy Thank You Card...

2012-01-04T18:14:00.001-04:00

As I was looking through my clipart folder from my last card I came across another cute Fairy and couldn't resist.... hee hee

Stamps:
Vintage Notepad - Market Street Stamps
Thank You - Scrappy Cats Stamps
Giving Thanks - Theresa Collins Stamps
Laced with Grace - Glitz Stamps
Worth Repeating - Autumn Stampology Stamps

Craft Cardstock - American Crafts

Design Paper from my stash

Distress Inks - Vintage Photo & Walnut Stain

Generic Lace & Twine

Tiny Attacher - Tim Holtz

Flowers colored with Prisma Pencils 311, 957 & Champagne

:)

Fairy Birthday Card...

2012-01-02T13:47:00.003-04:00

I've been wanting to play with some new dies I had gotten back in November...This "Large Nesting Lace Oval" Die is from Lifestyle Crafts..formerly known as QuicKutz..

I cut the Oval card from my WildCard Cricut Cartridge ( using the hiding Contours) function

The background stamps are from an old See-D's Collection - #50018 - Tropicals

Background Inks; ColorBox Chalk Ink - Wisteria; also Bundled Sage and Vintage Photo Distress Inks

The Flowers are handmade..

Fern Leaf and Butterflies punches - Martha Stewart

Embossing Folder - Sizzix - Damask

Distress Inks - Tim Holtz - Vintage Photo & Walnut Stain

Twine held by Tombow Mono Glue

Banner - Cuttlebug Cutting and Embossing Die ( it has no marking on package... Sorry )

Hand wrote the Happy Birthday Sentiment

Heart - Hand drawn and Cut - Embossing folder - Swiss Dots - Cuttlebug

The Fairy has been in my ClipArt Folder for quite awhile

:)
Debbi...

Christmas Napkin Ring Holder - Tutorial...

2011-12-30T17:44:00.014-04:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful Holiday...

Here is a very simple and fun project, I created for my everyday Christmas Table...it's one that can be decorated for any occassion!!

A Slide Show Tutorial follows the Tools and Products list...

Tools:
Ruler
Craft Knife
Tweezers
Sanding Block
Small Paint Brush
Pencil
Crimper ( or Scoring Board )
Daubers or Small Sponges
Heating Tool

Products:
Toilet Paper Rolls - Cut in 1 1/4" increments
Cardstock - Cut at 1 1/4"x6"
Distress Inks - Tim Holtz - Vintage Photo & Walnut Stain
Glossy Accents or any strong embellishment glue
Gemstones ( Red and Green sharpies if stones are clear)
Mod Podge or any good sealer
Embossing Powders: Zing-Chestnut, Ranger-Gold
Embossing Pad
Twine

A VERY Happy New Year !!

Christmas Mini - 2011...

2011-12-12T09:12:00.003-04:00

Happy Holidays everyone... Hope you are all looking forward to a very Joyous Season with Family and Friends....
Here is a little 6x6 Christmas Mini... that surprisingly holds more than 50 large photos... The spine were inspired by Laura Dennison 's - Stack the Deck at:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Z_6pe2ZhDI
My YouTube Video at the end.. will walk you through the Album... and best viewed by clicking on the YouTube Icon....
Wishing you all the best this Christmas... and the happiest New Year yet!!
:)
Debbi...

Papers: Be Merry - My Minds Eye
Cardstock: Bazzill
Baker's Twine: Sew Easy - We R Memory Keepers
Poinsietta's: Flower Shoppe Cartridge - Cricut
Large Leaf Die: Cuttlebug - Leaves- 37-1214
Small leaves: MS Punch - Rose leaf
Arch Border Punch: Martha Stewart
Bracket Spine Shape: On The Edge Die - Brackets - 656625
Snowflake Border: On the Edge Die - Snowflurries - 656920
Loop Edger Die: CottageCutz - CC-ED07-006
Skates and Snowman Die & Embossing Folder: uttlebug - Winter Play - 37-1745
House Die: Sizzix - 656696
Welded Tree Border: Christmas Cartridge - Cricut
Santa Silhouettes: A Child's Year Cartridge - Cricut
Corner Flourishes: Architectural Accents - Sizzix - 654470
Small Label Punch: EK Success
Oval Christmas Stamps: JustRite - JB-080770
Distress Ink: Tim Holtz - Walnut Stain
ModPoge
Assorted Ribbons

Thanksgiving in Yonkers...

2011-11-26T17:33:00.002-04:00

I am so enjoying being in Yonkers, NY with my son and his wonderful companion Philip for American Thanksgiving.... we even went shopping yesterday.."Black Friday"....it was actually fun!! hee hee

Having moved back home to a small town for the past 7 years... it was great going to all the "major" stores and have SO much to choose from.... but you know...I am also looking forward to being back where there are NO street lights, traffic...and practically knowing everyone I see....!!

I decided to make a layout of Philip's gorgeous boys..and even though I don't have any supplies..other than the papers and punches I bought yesterday and the quality of the pics are not that great... the photos themselves are a riot and I giggled the whole time I made it....
:)

Papers and the banner were cut from a fabulous DCWV paper collection called The Celebration Stack
Chain punch: EK Success
Large Embossed Scallop Punch: EK Success
Label Punch: EK Success

Christmas Card 1 - 2011

2011-11-17T12:50:00.001-04:00

Like I promised.... Here is the beginning of my Holidays Series....

Just purchased these new stamps.... and you know..... it ALWAYS feels like Christmas when that happens!! hee hee

:)
Debbi...

Cardstock: Bazzil
Background Stamp: Punched Tin - Market Street Stamps
Tree & Sentiments: Merry & Bright - Creative Imaginations
Ink: Tim Holtz Distress Inks - Fire Brick - Tumbled Glass - Vintage Photo
Gemstones: Generic

Halloween Pocket Page Mini...

2011-11-16T12:13:00.003-04:00

I know.... I know.... I really should be thinking about Christmas.... and I am.... honest...!! hee hee....but I wanted to make a few of these mini albums as presents..they were pretty easy.... even if I tend to add a LOT of details.....

From now on.... only Christmas Krafts .... errrrr.... well... just no more Halloween stuff...'til next year!!

Below is a Video of the Album..... best watched by hitting the YouTube Icon....
:)

Design Papers : Spooky Town by Imaginesce
Cardstock : Bazzill

Halloween Card ... (10-2011)

2011-10-30T12:42:00.004-03:00

This is the 4" x 6" Halloween Card and Envelope I made this year for my grandkids and friends...and all from the scraps I had left over from my Halloween Mini-Album!!

It is a basic gate fold card with a panel on the front and a peek-a-boo inside center... however this one has an apeture inside the circle that opens and closes with the card....

Happy Halloween all you Ghouls and Gals!!
:)

The Products are all listed with my Halloween Mini Album - 2011
http://kindakrafty.blogspot.com/2011/10/halloween-mini-2011.html

Thinking of You... (10-2011).

2011-10-22T14:58:00.001-03:00

I had seen a really pretty pinwheel flower recently and thought I might like to try my hand in making one..The flower was designed from a 4" square and because of the finished size I placed it on a 5" x 7" card..

Combined with BasicGrey's Lemonade Paper..and flower border punch from Martha Stewart...I think the result is so very vintage and feminine...

:)

Products used:
Papers: BasicGrey - 6" x 6" Lemonade Collection
Pastel Pink Cardstock from American Crafts
Cream Cardstock from American Crafts
Sentiment Stamps: Hero Arts - Friends #CL351
Polka Dot Border Stamp: Martha Stewart #M331026
Scalloped Flower Border Punch: Martha Stewart
Flower Punches: Martha Stewart
Label Punch: EK Success
Inks: Tim Holtz Distress Ink - Vintage Photo and Spun Sugar

Are YOU lookin' at me??...

2011-10-16T12:48:00.008-03:00

Jordan took this great photo of Liam and his Cousin Lara playing in their sun tent, this past summer..It is such an honest "likeness" of who they really are.. Lara who is ALWAYS sweet and Liam who is ALWAYS up to somethin!! hee hee
:)
Debbi...

Papers, Journaling Card and large flower die cuts: October Afternoon's "Night Light Collection"
Title was cut from: Cricut Cartridge - Stone Script
Small Button Flowers: Sassafras Lass' In a stitch Blossoms #60110
Green Saddle-Stitch Ribbon: American Crafts
Dymo
Label Punch: EK Success

Halloween Mini 2011...

2011-10-09T19:27:00.004-03:00

Here is a Paper Bag Album... without the Paper Bags!! hee hee

I have been wanting to make an album that could hold enough photos to emcompass the many years we dress our kids up for Halloween.... and this album does it!!

There is room in here for approximately 110 photos and all are a good size..

One bit of good news is that this completed album probably only cost me about $5.00 to create..

I will be making a Christmas album with this design..and at that time I will have a pattern and a picture tutorial that I will make available to you...

So stay tuned!!
:)
Debbi...

Nonna Irene's Mini..

2011-10-06T18:11:00.001-03:00

This is still one of my favorite minis...it is SO cute, easy and always a delight to give someone..
Whether it's vintage, retro or just simple like this one... to me, the secret is to keep it uncluttered....

Below is a short video of the whole album..

*I used my new Marvy Uchida Button Punch to decorate the inserts..
*The cheerful papers have been in my stash forever... and I painted the rolls white and sealed it with ModPodge..
*The endcaps ( the tutorial is available on the right hand side ) gives me so much more space for an already small album...

Have fun!!
:)
Debbi...

Happy Thanksgiving...

2011-10-06T11:14:00.006-03:00

I arrived home from Italy about 3 weeks ago...been happily busy back in my scrap space... toooooo busy to post anything...!! hee hee

Will start to fix that oversight now.....

Our Canadian Thanksgiving is this weekend...and wouldn't you know it... I saw a few snowflakes this morning!!! :(

Anyhoooooo... this is a card I made for the wonderful ladies at my local post office... who always take good care of my scrappy packages when they arrive!!!

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!!
:)
Debbi...

Papers are from: The Fall Stack by DCWV
Stamps: The Journey by Tim Holtz and The Fall Collections by Inkadinkadoo
Inks: Shading are from a combination of Tim Holtz Distress Inks
Images were stamped by ColorBox Chalk Ink - Chestnut Roan
The Pumpkin was colored with a mixture of orange and yellow Prisma Pencils

Boys Rule...

2011-08-13T08:48:00.002-03:00

For his 4th birthday in July..Liam received a new skateboard, roller blades and all the cool safety stuff that goes with it!!...and yes... Nonna Debbi thinks he's looking mighty fine in his new Gear!! hee hee

Papers and embellies are a mix of DCWV, My Mind's Eye-"Breaking Free Collection" and Cosmo Cricket's-"Cogsmo Collection"

See ya on the Flip Side...Dude!!
;)

Oh Boy...

2011-08-12T13:12:00.001-03:00

This is just a priceless photo of my 3 year old grandson Liam dressed up as a Pirate for his first Halloween at Pre-Kindergarten...

I mostly used an older Fancy Pants collection ( Rough & Tough by Lili) that I happen to have here with me in Italy ( boy do I miss all my stuff back home!! hee hee )

The large Scallop punch is by EK Success...

The red button is also a punch by Marvy Uchida..

I've been putting the journaling on the back of most of my Layouts recently... and I kinda like it...

Hope everyone's looking forward to a fabulous weekend...

Ciao... for now!!
:)
Debbi...

Love You...

2011-08-11T04:24:00.002-03:00

Hopefully I will be able to upload this from my daughter's very slow internet connection, here in the Italian Alps!!... hee hee

I love this photo of my grandaughter Kiara, hugging a family friend's dog, Zaga... and her little cousin Lara seems to be enjoying the moment, too!!

If this works, I will try uploading more..

Ciao for now!!!
:)

Other than that seriously cute cat that was fussy cut from a random design paper I had in my stash... ALL of the Layout papers & embellishments are from Crate Paper's Lillian and Cottage Collection

Buongiorno!!...

2011-07-25T01:46:00.001-03:00

Yes...Yes...I've been MIA... but for a very good reason, eh! I'm in Italy.. up in the Alps actually..hee hee

I really enjoy my summers here with my daughter and my grandchildren..it is warm ( not hot) and sunny most days and those Alpine views just can't be beat!!!

I'm still doing my krafting which is even more fun with my 10 year old grandaughter who enjoys it, too..

I will have to wait to get on a higher speed computer before I can attempt any uploading, though..

We are off to a Refugio,( even higher up in the mountains) for lunch today and I will make sure to
take my camera..

Gotta run....

Ciao..... for now!!
:)
Debbi...

Isabel's Wedding Mini...

2011-06-29T11:01:00.006-03:00

My friends Isabel and Rodney were married this past Saturday..it was a simple and beautiful celebration with family and friends..I was so proud of them for remaining focused on their true intentions and really staying away from the pomp and ceremony trap that so many couples fall into..

This Pocket Page Mini-album was created to hold 4"x6" photos and the large inside Pocket Matts will hold two 5"x7" photos...Can't wait to see what she does with it.. hee hee
:)

Products:
Papers: Ancient ones from my stash
Stamps: Fiskars-Toss the Bouquet & Join the Party, American Crafts-Wedding. See-D's-Love Love Love #50152,
Cuttlebug Die: Leaves
Cuttlebug Embossing Folder: Swiss Dots
Sizzix Sizzlet: Architectural Accent Set
Tim Holtz-On the Edge Dies: Brackets & Plaque and Postage
Martha Stewart Border Punch: Doily Lace
EK Success: 1" Scallop Circle Punch
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black
Silver Extra-Large Grommets

Wedding Frame...

2011-06-03T16:43:00.002-03:00

I had been looking for a good excuse to use my
- Graphic 45 - "Le Romantique" Papers...they are so beautiful!!
- Along with My Mind's Eye - "Bella Bella" Papers
- Some hand made roses..& fabric flowers that I had in my stash..
- A Prima Bling Flourish..
- half back pearls...
- Martha Stewart Butterfly Punches
- A Banner-Label Embossing Die by Cuttlebug
- "Leaves" Die by Cuttlebug
- "On the Edge - Ornate" Die by Tim Holtz
- Tattered Angels Glimmer Mist - Bronze
- Some heavy weight chipboard to create the frame...a touch of lace... and there you have it...an Anniversary/Birthday present for a very dear friend!! hee hee

Below is an updated slide show which includes a few "new" embellishments and an original photo of Bev & Raymond's Wedding Day, almost 30 years ago...they are SO Cute!!

Whooo's 10?...

2011-05-28T17:20:00.001-03:00

Cards are so much fun... they're fast..interactive and always makes the receiver of them feel good....I like that!! hee hee

Stamps are by Hampton Arts, Cornish Farm and Autumn Leaves
other supplies:
PrismaColor Pencils
Martha Stewart Border Vine Punch
Tim Holtz Distress Ink - Walnut Stain
Stazon Ink - Timber Brown

Schooltime...

2011-05-27T16:36:00.002-03:00

Still working on Liam's 1st year at Pre-Kindergarten..this layout shows Liam pretend reading to me...now that he is a "BIG BOY" and in school... I was so glad to get these cute photos.. even if his story was just made-up.... that's what Nonna's are for, eh??

The journaling spot is hidden behind the smaller picture..and easily pulled out...

The papers and embellishments are a mixture of: Crate Paper's - School Spirit Collection and October Afternoon's - Night Light
Numbers Stamp: Autumn Leaves - Sassy Alphas by Peter Horjus
Border Punch: EK Success

First Day Jitters...

2011-05-20T14:49:00.009-03:00

I've been looking through the many photos I took of Liam on his first day of pre-kindergarten, last fall and recalling it all so vividly.. he had such mixed feelings..actually..... me, too!! hee hee

These beautiful papers and embellishments are from:
Crate Paper - School Spirit Collection

With Sympathy...

2011-05-17T17:11:00.004-03:00

You know those days... when you go to the grocery store to get some milk...and come home with pork chops, cheesies, grapes and no milk...??? hee hee..

yupp...I was looking for a new blade for my circle cutter, I had this idea for a new layout ( same box that I keep some of my stencils ) when I came across this "Glimmer Screen Stencils - Garden Blossom" by Tattered Angles that I had never used.. quickly got busy..laid down my stencil..sponged some Ranger Bundled Sage all around it, blended in some Vintage Photo,,,shadow stamped with some Tim Holtz stamps and inks, broke out the Glitz Distress Stamps... a little tearing, a lttle crimping.... some jute rope and before you know it.... it's supper time... and I have this wonderful card....

but I've completely forgotten about that dang blade for my circle cutter.....!!

ooooooh well.....maybe I'll work on that layout tomorrow..?? hee hee

Cherish...

2011-05-16T10:01:00.001-03:00

Don't these beautiful children look like Angels...??? they are the precious property of my half-sister Gail's daughter, Trina.. and she has graciously given me permission to let me post my Layout of them on my blog...

All of the papers and most of the embellishments are from My MInd's Eye and primarily their Bella Bella Collection..

Oops...

2011-05-13T16:17:00.006-03:00

I've had these photos of Kiara & Liam for several years now..I've just never been able to scrap them..I'd look at them...have a good giggle or two... and hope one day I'd feel inspired to do them justice...

I have JUST gotten an older line from Cosmo Cricket - Cogsmo.. and knew it was the perfect collection for this...especially once I read the strip tease that went with it... What fun!! hee hee

Thanks..Thanks..Thanks...

2011-05-11T15:04:00.001-03:00

I just received my new "Thanks" stamp set from American Crafts and just had to play with them.. hee hee

Background Stamp: Cornish Farms - Woodgrain
Embossing Folder: Cuttlebug - Candy Stripe
Embossing Powder: Zing - Orange
Black Ink: ColorBox Black Pigment

Graphic 45 - A Proper Gentleman...

2011-05-10T09:53:00.005-03:00

This is another wonderful album that was originated with Laura Denison over at Follow the Paper Trail...such an amazing lady..

The papers are primarily from Graphic 45's - "A Proper Gentleman" - 8x8 Collection..with one exception from Le Romatique..
All other papers are from 7Gypsies' - Savannah & Gypsy Market - 6x6 Collection
Journal Stamps: 7gypsies - "Take Note" & "Journal"
Tab Stamp: Autumn Leaves - "Ledger Tabs" by Katie Pertiet
Larger Binder Ring by Tim Holtz
Black Cardstock: American Crafts
Embossing Folder for hinges: Cuttlebug - Herringbone
On The Edge Dies by Tim Holtz - Ornate, Plaque & Postage, File Tabs

The videos below( which are really best viewed by clicking on the Youtube icon) are Part 2 (the completed album).. and Part 1 will show the hinge and tab assembly.

Laura's pattern can be found at: http://www.followthepapertrailwithlaura.com/store/one-flip-two-flip-mini-album
Laura's UStream Channel: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/followingthepapertrail

Enjoy!!

Book Style Box..

2011-04-30T15:22:00.011-03:00

I created this to hold the "Sister's" mini-album, that I had made for my cousin Betsy.. it was inspired from a YouTuber by the name of "TracylovestoScrap".
I made a few modifications so that it would be bigger and stronger than her original box, which was used as a card..
It took a bit of head scratching to figure it all out.. but it was well worth the effort and I will definitely be making one of these again!!

Here are a few of the *in the process* pics..

Creating the accordian sides...

Making sure of the measurements...

Covering the inside liners...

Gluing them on to the side and the whole frame to a base...

Gluing the final box to the back cover...

Papers are from the Classic K McKenna Collection by K & Company
I have changed the closure ( since the video ).. it is now a Tim Holtz Large Swivel Clasp
:)

Doodle Baby...

2011-04-16T08:41:00.001-03:00

It's amazing how "flat" this picture looks, when it's really such a very dimensional page..

Here are some of the many flowers I stamped, embossed and coloured with my markers...I think they are so pretty..

The title was cut from my Alphalicious Cartridge and silouhetted using the shadow feature, such a nice effect...

The cut-out of my granddaughter Kiara popping out of the stamped-embossed frame adds another playful element to the page..

These butterflies, from a Martha Stewart punch..embossed and matted in black, look like they might just fly off the page...!!

The white background page has a hand drawn pencil-line frame with some doodled scalloping, coloured in with an orange marker...the script effect was created by using an Autumn Leaves - "Worth Repeating" stamp.. then over that, I hand cut a denim blue cardstock...embossed the edges..and layered my photo, flowers, clouds, title, frame and butterflies on that...

Children's pages especially, allow us so many opportunities to be playful, whimsical, to cut and colour "outside the lines"..and this was a lot of fun to do... so put away your store bought stuff.. just for a day..and make one of your own.. have fun!!

:)

Surprise!!...

2011-04-13T11:06:00.003-03:00

This is a corny card I made for my daughter's upcoming birthday...it fits right in with her sense of humor..

I got to play with my new Cuttlebug banner "die and embossing" folder along with the Cuttlebug Script embossing folder and of course a Tim Holtz Stamp....

:)

Products used:
Banner: 5" X 7" Embossing Plus, Fanciful Labels by Cuttlebug
Embossing Folder: Emboss A2 Script Texture by Cuttlebug
Distress ink: Ranger - Vintage Photo
Card Base: Autumn Leaves
Stamp: Tim Holtz - CMS013 Photo Studio - Stampers Anonymous

Thinking of You...

2011-04-11T11:58:00.006-03:00

There's stll snow on the ground, but no need to shovel... so I am REALLY enjoy my free time in the Scraproom!! hee hee

Have a few design and technique ideas rolling around in my head...on this card I played with some embossing and markers to create a more dynamic flower..I like how it turned out...

So pull out your embossing powders, markers and give it a try !!
:)

Products used:
Stamp: Flower - Basic Grey - Two Scoops
Stamp: Sentiment - Studio G
Embossing Powder: Black - Martha Stewart
Embossing Pad: Martha Stewart
Punch: Fiskars - Threading Water
Punch: Doily Edge - Martha Stewart
Design Papers: From my stash
Kraft Card Base: Autumn Leaves

Thank You Card...

2011-04-09T12:22:00.006-03:00

This is a more masculine card..one that I am making for my Son.

I cut a standard 4"x5-1/2" kraft cardstock card in half, to get a 4"x2-3/4" card...then I created a tag shape and covered it with a background Thank You Stamp in two ink tones... backed it on some black card stock .. wrapped it with some jute..added 2 embossed hearts.. tied a bow.. and called it a day!! hee hee

Products used:

Kraft Cardstock Card: Autumn Leaves
Stamp: Autumn Leaves Stampology - Worth Repeating by Katie Pertiet
Inks: Stazon - Jet Black; Ranger Distress Ink - Vintage Photo
White & Black Cardstocks: American Crafts
Sizzix Die: Hearts
Tim Holtz Alterations Folder: Damask
Jute
Mini Glue Dots

Dude...

2011-04-07T14:23:00.007-03:00

Kids really like to mimic adults, don't they? hee hee...The photo is such a familiar pose that I just had to scrap it...Liam "calls" me on his play phone ..and it ALWAYS goes like this:

Liam: *ring* *ring*
Me: Pronto?
Liam: Hi Nonna.
Me: Hi Liam.
Liam: What are you doing?
Me: I'm talking to you on the phone.
Liam: Okay... Ciao!!
Me: Ciao! ( He'd already hung up... hee hee)

On this particular day we were waiting for Mom to drive us to his pre-kindergarten.. so we had that same wee chat....several times....( notice his pink Dragon-Slayer water pistol....)

:)

Products:
Design Paper: Fancy Pants - Rough and Tough by Lili
Color Cardstock: Bazzil
Stamps: 7Gypsies and Autumn Leaves
Ink: Stazon - Jet Black
Embossing Powder: Black by Stamp Cabana; White by Martha Stewart
Embossing Ink: Martha Stewart
Embossing Pen: Quickie Glue by Sakura

You Rock!!...

2011-04-05T14:35:00.005-03:00

My 3 year old geandson Liam will soon be "graduating" from his first year at pre-kindgarten...and I wanted to make him a card to celebrate the occassion..The papers are from one of my favorite Daisy D collections called Bambino... just perfect for such a little rascal....
:)

Other products:
Punches: EK Success
Cardstock: Bazzil
Coluzzle Nested Circles Template
Stamp: Stampology - Hand Drawn Alphabet by Katie Pertiet
Stamp: Stampendous - School for Changito
Ink: Adirondack Earthtones - Denim
Glossy Accents
PrismaColour Pencils

A Bother Free Day...

2011-03-27T15:02:00.005-03:00

The title is one of my favorite Pooh quotes...hee hee..I had bought this "Disney-Pooh Paper Pack" a while back and when I was looking through my stash of Liam photos and saw the one of Liam in his Tigger PJ's I just KNEW I had struck gold.....the photos were from last summer... he had just turned three... even though he sees himself as a little man.....he is an ADORABLE boy to me.... errrrrrr.... maybe I am a wee bit subjective, eh????? hee hee

I used the same sketch I created for "A branch of the FAMILY tree"....without the branch....just to see how versatile the sketch could be...

I think it worked out fine and dandy!!

:)

Products:
Everything but the buttons, embroidery floss and dymo is from the Disney - Pooh Paper Pack

I Spy...

2011-03-24T18:21:00.013-03:00

Kids ( especially grandchildren ) really help me to "play" with my Layouts..on this Page I had taken a photo of my Grandaughter Kiara while we we walking home from the market in her hometown of Oulx, Italy... she had bought a magnifying glass and had to look at EVERYTHING on the way!! hee hee...I didn't want to take too many photos and distract her from her adventure..this particular picture shows how much she was enjoying her new toy.....Lucky me.....

:)

Papers are from DCWV: The Green Stack
Frames & Sentiment Tag: My Mind's Eye - Bohemia Collection - Accessories Pack
Flowers: Cutouts from the DCWV Collection.. or my handmade ones
Butterfly Punch: Martha Stewart
Alphas: Dollar Store

Using your coloured pencils...

2011-03-23T10:05:00.004-03:00

CARD TUTORIAL

This Tutorial was created for the ladies who were in my Saturday Class...colouring with pencils is so easy and a LOT less expensive than those more costly markers..

Enjoy the slide show.... I hope it helps and inspires you to try it!!

:)

A branch of the Family tree...

2011-03-17T14:08:00.008-03:00

I have to admit..my first love really is Scrapbooking... this is a two-page Layout that I created, using minimal supplies... for a class I am teaching this Saturday.

Normally I only do single page Layouts.. so doubles are ALWAYS challenging...although I am pleased with how this one turned out..
:)

Products used:
Papers and paper embellishments: My Mind's Eye - "Bella Bella & Meadow Lark"
Stamp: Cornish Heritage Farms - "SL-3143WUM Wood Grain Backgrounder"
Stamp: 7 Gypsies - "Take Note"
Punches : Martha Stewart's - "Hydrangea Trio" and Border Punch (can't recall name); Fiskar's - "Threading Water"
Cricut Cartriges: "Serenade & Stone Script"
Embroidery Floss: Iris ( not sure of the color swatch but it is a medium to dark brown)

Travel Mini Album & Box...

2011-03-12T15:05:00.005-04:00

I know it's been awhile since I have worked on my blog...I have been really busy digging out from a brutal winter AND creating a craftspace in my home...shovelling my way to my scraproom outside this winter got VERY old and tiring!! hee hee

But ....I did find some time to work on this project for my daughter and her hubby who live in Italy and travel all through the Meditterean... I am delighted with the results...the album is based on Laura Denison's Full Pockets Mini...and wow...what a LOT of interesting real estate this one has....she is amazing!! ( her pattern can be found at: http://www.followthepapertrailwithlaura.com/store/patterns ) and she has a wonderful Ustream Tutorial for it, too...

I created the box to put it into... as the album really fans out a lot and I felt it was easier and prettier for it to have a permanent home...

Thanks for looking!!
:)

The papers are from KandCompany's Roam Collection
Stamps are from Tim Holtz, Hero Arts and Artemio

Cream Cheese Box & Mini-Album...

2011-02-12T14:41:00.011-04:00

Cream Cheese Box and Mini...

This adorable box was based upon my cream cheese box....I will have a slide show tutorial posted by tomorrow or the next day.... and that sweet little mini album was completely inspired by Laura Denison (Follow the Paper Trail) from her 2010 - 12 Days of Christmas Projects... what an incredible crafter she is, eh..?

All papers are from:
KandCompany - Classic K McKenna Collection

Finished Album - Sisters

2011-02-12T14:19:00.007-04:00

SISTERS Mini-Album...

After Marion's 31 Day Challenge, I took a break... I had a gazillion other things that needed getting done.... ummm.... like laundry, housework...getting in touch with former family and friends... hee hee...

But I did work a bit every day to finish up the album I had started with the Challenge...This Album is for a cousin of mine who just had her second daughter, 11 years apart... I thought those faeries on the cover were simply perfect!!

All of the pages are included in the slide show below ( best seen if you click on the YouTube Icon )....

And golllllleeeeee you should see all the snow we have....I am SO ready for Spring!!
:)

All papers are from:
K and Company - Classic K McKenna Collection

Marion's 31 Day Challenge - Day 26

2011-01-28T17:18:00.003-04:00

Tabs for Tags Tutorial...

The video below best shows and explains how to make handmade tabs designed by you!!

To see the video more clearly hit the YouTube icon on the right hand side...

Marion's 31 Day Challenge - Day 25

2011-01-26T16:43:00.002-04:00

Another Haul Video...

Shame on me.... eh..??

What...???

hee hee

Wait till you see the deals I got!!

Marion's 31 Day Challenge - Day 24

2011-01-25T16:01:00.008-04:00

Valentine's Card #2

I was thrilled to be able to use my Spellbinder's Shapeabilities Die.. at last!! hee hee

products used:
Spellbinder's Nestibilities - Classic Scallop Circles - Large & Small
Spellbinder's Shapeabilities - Pendant - Kaleidoscope
Embossing Folder - Tim Holtz - Damask
Script Stamp - Glitz designs
Inks - Tim Holtz - Vintage Photo and Walnut Stain
Tattered Angels Glimmer Mist - Coffee Shop & Gold
Cardstock - American Craft
Gemstone Heart - Dollar Store

Marion's 31 Day Challenge - Day 23

2011-01-23T17:43:00.003-04:00

I enjoyed scrapbooking today...it always feels good to know I am leaving behind a bit of someone's story.... to be remembered...
:)

Marion's 31 Day Challenge - Day 22

2011-01-23T10:52:00.003-04:00

After 2 years of sitting on a shelf.. it's done!!... Box.. Album.. all of it...

Yay.......................!!

and here's the proof!! hee hee

Marion's 31 Day Challenge - Day 21

2011-01-23T10:46:00.002-04:00

By the time I figured out what kind of box to make... create it.. then cover it with the basic papers.....I forgot to take photos of it!! ( forehead slap )

but here's the video..

Marion's 31 Day Challenge - Day 20

2011-01-23T10:41:00.003-04:00

I was gone for the day... but I did manage to stop by MY scrapbook stores...Dollarama and Walmart!! hee hee

I thought I'd share my goodies with you...

:)

Marion's 31 Day Challenge - Day 19

2011-01-23T10:16:00.003-04:00

Thanks to the challenge..I finally completed this mini-album of Liam...

From 2009... hee hee

See you tomorrow!!

Marion`s 31 Day Challenge - Day 18

2011-01-19T09:51:00.005-04:00

Preparing for a Crop Weekend..

This is my tool caddy ( from my local hardware store..hee hee..) it takes up VERY little space on the table.. and holds a TON of stuff..

It`s always packed and ready to go... errr .. except when I borrow things from it.. hee hee.. so I thought I`d better do the check list on it so it`s adequately stocked for my weekend in February..

My Large Tote carries the rest of my supplies, that have to do with the specific projects I am working on..

Of course that`s easier to understand.. when you see the video..
:)

Marions's 31 Day Challenge - Day 17

2011-01-19T09:30:00.006-04:00

Final photos of the finished Die-Tag Album..

I`m really pleased with the outcome and I hope Melissa will enjoy this gift... a small way of saying thank you for such a wonderful experience....

We got to enjoy St Tropez, a beautiful villa and her amazing cullinary skills!!

Lucky me...
:)

Good Morning...

2011-01-18T09:32:00.003-04:00

As I was standing at the kitchen counter making my first cup of coffee..the sun began to appear on the horizon.... it simply took my breath away...

My day had been touched by this ever occuring miracle...

I feel so blessed...

:)
Debbi..

Marion's 31 Day Challenge - Day 16

2011-01-16T19:24:00.003-04:00

Die-Tag Album - Part 2

I will have photos and lots of information for you tomorrow... once the album is complete...

For now the video is Part Two of the Die-Tag Mini Album...

Marion's 31 Day Challenge - Day 15

2011-01-15T17:46:00.003-04:00

Die-Tag Album - Part 1

I'm pretty pleased with how this Tag album has turned out so far...considering that it was a much bigger Die than I thought I was getting... hee hee

I will have more details on this Album once it is completed..

See you tomorrow!!

Marion's 31 Day Challenge - Day 14

2011-01-14T17:11:00.003-04:00

Valentin`s Card

Here is the Valentine's Card that I made with the hearts I cut out from my new Sizzix Die....

I really like the Faux Letter Press technique that I used with my embossing folders..

Tomorrow, I should be able to get to Liam's Mini Album.... which would be a good thing.. since it is about his 1st year, up until his 2nd Birthday... and he is turning 4 !! hee hee

Marion's 31 Day Challenge - Day 13

2011-01-14T17:06:00.002-04:00

I just have the video today as I forgot to take pics of my "stuff"...

I will correct this oversight and get some photos on here tomorrow...

ummmm...... if remember..... hee hee

Marion's 31 Day Challenge - Day 12

2011-01-12T17:37:00.002-04:00

I know...... I know.... doing a video of a haul.. for a challenge...I'm desperate okay...??? hee hee

and....

There's a preview of my Day 13 Challenge goal.....
:)

Marion's 31 Day Challenge - Day 11

2011-01-12T15:52:00.003-04:00

These are the Layouts I used for my video, in case you need a closer look at the details..

Products used ( and what my feeble brain can remember ) are listed in the video..
:)

Marion's 31 Day Challenge - Day 10

2011-01-11T18:54:00.004-04:00

Altoid Tin - Keychain Album

Oh my goodness.. this really is a challenge.. only 21 days to go..... eeeek!!

This little Altoid Tin-Album-Keychain.. has been bouncing around my purse, baskets, drawers, beach bags, suitcases. etc... for over a year... it just me took that long and Marion's Challenge to complete it!!

Marion's 31 Day Challenge - Day 9

2011-01-11T18:51:00.002-04:00

Who can do projects EVERY Day..??? hee hee

I thought it might be helpful to share some of my storage ideas...
:)

Marion's 31 Day Challenge - Day 8

2011-01-09T20:01:00.008-04:00

This is an Appointment Register that I created for my friend (and hairdresser) Bertha, and I hope she doen't see this before I give it to her.. hee hee

I resubmitted the pictures and video.. the lighting had been so poor yesterday...and now I am only two days behind!! hee hee
See you tomorrow!!
:)

Products used:
Design Paper - KandCompany's The Tim Coffey Blossomwood Collection
Cardstock - American Craft
Border punch - Martha Stewart
Glues - Elmer's White All-Purpose, Tombow Mono, Scoth-3M ATG
Distress Inks - Ranger Vintage Photo and Walnut Stain
Zutter's Bind-it-All and 1" Black O-Wires
Dymo
Tattered Angels Glimmer Mist - Coffee Shop, Bronze

Marion's 31 Day Challenge - Day 7

2011-01-09T10:11:00.003-04:00

Regular Programming was cancelled due to weather..hee hee and proof that I live in the "Great White North"... !!

Products used:
My Blue Snow Shovel!! LOL

Marion's 31 Day Challenge - Day 6

2011-01-07T17:23:00.002-04:00

Yay.. the scraproom is clean.... 52 weeks of the Appointment Calendar are printed.. and hopefully tomorrow the whole book will be finished, too!!

I will create a blank week-sheet and post it here tomorrow or the next day if anyone is interested in making one....

See you tomorrow!!
:)

Marion's 31 Day Challenge - Day 5

2011-01-07T11:14:00.003-04:00

Ewwwwwwwwww... yeah...time to clean up before I move on to the next projects(s)

Does any of this look familiar to my fellow Krafters???? hee hee

Marion's 31 Day Challenge - Day 4

2011-01-06T17:12:00.008-04:00

Yay!!..The Frame is done... I may tweak it a bit before little Violet gets it.. as you can see.. it's all light hearted and fun..not too heavy on the embellishments because the picture will be the real focal point of this project...

Marion's challenge is really getting me focused on getting my project baskets cleaned up and finished ( of course I will probably fill them all up again, hee hee )

I will be doing a slide show tutorial on how to make a frame from scratch ( a vintage one ) after the challenge is over.
:)

Products used:
Papers and embellishments ALL from - Crate Paper's Season's Collection Kit
Tim Holtz - On The Edge Die
Glues - Tomobow Mono, Elmer's All Purpose White Glue
Sealer - FolkArt's Satin Waterbase Varnish

Marions 31 Day Challenge - Day 3

2011-01-05T17:33:00.003-04:00

Eeeegads... what have I gotten myself into?? hee hee...
As you can see by the picture..I had to recut all my pieces.... my choice actually, as I wanted to make a larger frame...
Barring any unforseen circumstances.... I will have this completed tomorrow
:)

Marion's 31 Day Challenge - Day 2

2011-01-04T16:07:00.007-04:00

Yeah, Yeah..I know... everyone ELSE is on Day 3.. hee hee...I am still learning how to make a video AND upload it..I don't expect a call from Stephen Spielberg anytime too soon...
Okay.... the project is a folder to hold a 8 1/2" x 11" desktop planner..what is commonly known here in Canada as a Duo-Tang.. very simple really..and because it is something that will be used often and hopefully over the years..I felt that any embellishments would only tear off or look pretty ratty over time... The trick is to seal it well.. so it can be wiped clean with a damp cloth and also make the paper stronger and more durable...

Products used:
Design Papers - K and Company, The Tim Coffey Blossomwood Collection
Cardstock - American Crafts
Border Punch - Threading Water by Fiskars
Distress Inks - Ranger's Vintage Photo & Walnut Stain
Card Holder Template by Coluzzle
Sealer - FolkArt Waterbase Satin Varnish
Raised effects on Flowers - Glossy Accents

Marion's 31 Day Challenge - Day 1

2011-01-03T12:02:00.011-04:00

After 2 days I was FINALLY able to successfully upload this to YouTube...and quite unexpectedly it became my first and biggest challenge... hee hee

What a great idea and thanks Marion.. I just hope I can keep up and finish all those projects that have been hanging out there, somewhere in the backwoods of scrapper-land for a very long time now... hee hee

Since this is my first video... please forgive the blurriness and my total rookiness..

Heck..come play along!!
:)

Ornament Christmas Card...

2010-12-29T13:33:00.003-04:00

I was so excited when my stamps from Gina K Designs ( designed by Nina Brackett ) and co-ordinating Spellbinder's Heirloom Dies arrived ( a wee bit late for this Christmas, hee hee ) ... I JUST had to make a card with them... I love Nina B's style with cardmaking, too.. she does texture and vintage so nicely.....

Products used:
Embossing powders - Ranger Gold - Dark Bronze
Doillie - Dollar Store
Poinsettia - Imaginesce
Brads - Large - Making Memories
Stamps - Gina K. Designs
Tag #5 - Staples
Holly leaves - Making Memories - Fa la la Collection
Cardstock - Cream - Sage - American Crafts
Laces - Generic
Glues - Tombow Mono - Scotch ATG-Gold

Tag - Birdcage...

2010-12-23T11:41:00.008-04:00

It's been so hectic getting organized for this Festive Season..and I'm loving every minute of it... especially since I've become old and wise enough to cut back on all of the insaneness we create for ourselves..I have a small amount of grocery shopping to do today...and then I am all set... well except for cooking Christmas dinner!! hee hee..

Sooooooooooo... I thought I'd sneak out and play in my scraproom for a wee bit...I've been itchin' to make a tag..something I haven't done yet...and oooooooooh what fun... not too sure what to do with it... but... it sure is pretty, eh?? hee hee

Happy Holidays everyone!!
:)
Debbi...

Products used:
#5 Tag
Ranger Distress inks - Vintage Photo, Weathered Wood, Walnut Stain
Embossing powders - Zing Copper, Antique Bronze, Martha Stewart Clear
Button - Spellbinders; Vintage Collection, embossed in copper
Tickets - Tim Holtz stamp
Flourish - Tim Holtz's Elegant Flourishes
Flowers - Generic
Border Punches - Martha Stewart embossed in copper and Ranger Distress Gold
Jute
Generic Rust colored ribbon
Generic Guinea Feathers
Compass embellishment - Dollar Store
Doillie - Dollar Store
Birdcage stencil and birds - Dollar Store
Hot Glue Gun
Rangers Glossy Accents to attach flourish,feathers and gemstones
Embossing Pad - Martha Stewart
Stick Pins - RAK from my friend Holly
Tattered Angels Glimmer Mist - Coffe Shop, Bronze ( on Flowers )
Background Script Stamp - Tim Holtz, Visual Artistry Collection
Gemstones - Dollar Store

Snowflakes Card...

2010-11-19T16:57:00.005-04:00

This card was created for another color challenge over at StampTV..and you know... it actually snowed here today!!..not much, but with the snowflakes and Christmas music in the background, this card was so easy to get in the mood for..

Products used:
Textured Green Cardstock by Bazzil
Plain White Cardstock by American Crafts
Red Designer Paper - unknown
Embossing folder by Tim Holtz
Stamps by Making Memories - Fa La La Collection
Distress Inks - Barn Door Red - Vintage Photo
Color Box Chalk Ink - Chestnut Roan

Snowman Card..

2010-11-13T12:58:00.006-04:00

This is a card I created for a StampTV Challenge...I enjoy Gina K's Tutorials..and I really like the color challenge she selected for this card..what fun..eh??

Unfortunately I don't have any of her wonderful products ( yet..hee hee ) so I went through my own stash and came up with:

Tim Holtz embossing folder,
Turquoise Acrylic Paint - Decoart
Inkadinkdoo Snowman Stamp,
ColorBox Chalk Ink - Chestnut Roan
Ranger Distressing Inks: Barn Door Red and Frayed Burlap

Challenges can be fun... Try one!!
:)

Halloween Frame...

2010-11-06T10:32:00.005-03:00

It's amazing what you can do with cereal boxes!!... my new Cricut Cartridge - October 31st... and a new Martha Stewart Halloween Fence Border Punch..

I know Halloween is over but I didn't want to post this until I had gven it to my friend Bertha, first..

Frames are pretty easy to make... basic shapes like squares, rectangles, hearts, circles.. whatever you can think of.. and whatever size opening you want...the decorating is really all about having some fun...

So go for it !!
:)
Debbi...

Toilet Paper Roll Tutorial...

2010-11-01T15:00:00.005-03:00

As promised, here is a slide show tutorial for my toilet paper roll mini album..( and my first YouTube Video!! )

You will probably notice that many of my supplies are Italian... hee hee.. but you can find such things as acrylic paints.. quick drying glues and sealers here in the western hemisphere, too...

You will need to adjust some of your measurements, based on the size of your toilet rolls..

Close ups of the finished pages and information on the papers are available on the original posting of the album:
http://kindakrafty.blogspot.com/2010/08/blog-post.html

Hope this helps!!

Halloween Toppers...

2010-10-31T08:56:00.005-03:00

Decided to do something a little more personal for the kids this year..pulled out the cardstock..all my fun stamps, my Ghosties die cut from Sizzix, embossing powder and my Treading Water border punch from EK success and spent the afternoon making these...the bag "opening" is at the bottom, allowing the kids to open and close without tearing the topper..bags were from the Dollar Store and are smaller than a regular sandwich bag..but the size is up to you...

Used a fine point Zig Pen to make the dash lines around the purple scalloped circle and added embossing powder..you can also use a Sharpie Pen to blacken the staples..
Try it... it's fun!!

Christmas Step Card...

2010-10-26T14:52:00.012-03:00

I've been so intrigued by these step cards and thought I would like to try one for myself..there are many wonderful tutorials on Youtube, so I won't bore you with one of mine.. hee hee..suffice to say..I think I've found my Family Christmas Card for this year!!
The photo is of my home, now...but taken 60 years ago.. with my older brother Leonard and Mary Shea who was our neighbor at that time..

Cardstock by Bazzil
Frame by Sizzix
Stamps by Clear Stamps & Making Memories
Tim Holtz Vintage Photo Distress Ink
Ranger's Expresso Dye Ink
Irradescent Gold by Tattered Angels Glimmer Mist
Border Punch by EK Success

No Parking...

2010-10-25T16:54:00.003-03:00

It was wonderful to spend three months visiting with my daughter and her family...but it is so nice to be home, too and to be back in my scraproom...got to play yesterday and what fun it was to make this layout of my grandson Liam who never minded the million times I asked to take his picture ( as long as I showed him what he looked like on my camera right after )..on our way back from walking Mommy to work one day, I managed to convince him to sit in this very tiny alcove that posted a "No Parking" sign..he just fit!!

Papers and Embellishments are from:
My Mind's Eye - Breaking Free Collection

School Days...

2010-09-19T08:58:00.006-03:00

I was so choked up as I watched my 3 year old grandson Liam getting ready for his first days at Kindergarden...new friends and adventures...I was barely able to take these photos of Mom helping him put on his smock...geeeez...

I don't have any scrappy school stuff here in Italy... so I thought it was time to get artsy-phartsy..I pulled out a pizza box...cut it to 12"x12"... some acrylic paints..some alphabet stamps...string...cereal boxes and scissors for my die cut apple... markers....well.... okay...I cheated on the butterflies...which I cut from a Jenni Bowlin paper I had....and you know.. maybe it won't make it to the cover of a magazine..but it looks like something you would find on the wall of a Kindergarden Class...and I kinda like that..

Les Girls...

2010-09-13T13:05:00.002-03:00

On our second night in St Tropez, Jordan's friends Melissa and Helen joined us for supper in a scrumptous, scrumptous, scrumptous Moraccan restauran ( did I mention how great the food in this place is?? hee hee )...I was lucky enough to catch this terrific photo of the three of them just before we left for the restaurant...We had a lot of laughs and an amazing meal... okay..okay... enough about the food!! hee hee hee

Papers and hand cut flowers and flourishes are from :
K&Co's Wild Saffron Collection
I have used this paper collection over and over again and am always amazed at how versatile it is...good thing I bought several pads...eh?? :)

A Cloudy Day in St Tropez...

2010-09-11T09:14:00.006-03:00

Just returned with Jordan and Liam from a 4 day visit to St Tropez.. wow...the "Season" is over..but the harbor is still full of yachts and cruise ships... the streets are all ahustle with sight-seers... the cafes are full of Europeans ( The Mussels in the white wine sauce were awesome )...the shoppes are busy...I would hate to be there when it is REALLY crowded!!...I have so many photos I may have to do another Layout..unfortunately it was very overcast the day we went into St Tropez itself..so the bright Mediterrean colors are not as vibrant...but every view is still a sweet surprise!!

Other than the beautiful ribbon bought in St Tropez, all papers and the die cut are from:
Crate Paper's - Prudence Collection

2 Peas in a pod...

2010-09-05T06:09:00.003-03:00

On our way back from a day trip to Lac Embrun in France...I asked Jordan to take some pictures of Filippo and Kiara in the back seat of the van...since all I could hear was their laughing and giggling the WHOLE day!! hee hee ...They enjoy each other's company SO much ...and they really are 2 of a kind!!

I have been so challenged with using and re-using my limited stash, while on vacation here in Italy...it's been a good thing...

All papers and die cuts are from:
Crate Paper's - Prudence Collection

Off to the Races...

2010-09-03T10:28:00.003-03:00

I really like this Layout of Liam at the Annual Fun Run, hosted by the Town of Oulx, Italy for all the children... since the race is at the end of the summer, the rich fall colors of the papers work so perfectly ( and since I am so short on supplies over here that is wonderful, too!! hee hee )...as you can probably see from the photos, Liam seemed to enjoy his lunch better than everything else!!

All papers, alphas and die cuts are from:
Crate Paper's - Lemon Grass Collection

Mama Mia!!!...

2010-08-31T11:40:00.006-03:00

The Journaling says it all:

Liam received a set of
plastic handcuffs and a
suction-cup dart gun as
a present and we have
ALL had to enjoy his
new tots!!..

Of course his Mom is a
bigger clown that he is,
so I was able to get
this great photo of her
face..when he said...

"Mom.. you're going to
Jail!!" ...ummm maybe
he's seen Toy Story too
much??

All papers are from:
Cosmo Cricket's - Dutch Girl Collection

Earth to Kiara...

2010-08-25T11:38:00.010-03:00

Kiara was playing Ninendo while I was finishing some work on a mini-album I had done ..I had asked her a question and after a moment realized she hadn't heard me.. I giggled to myself as I saw how absorbed she was and started taking pics of her.. it took a minute or two before she figured out what I was doing... hee hee..unfortunately the pics are kind of dark..but they tell the story so well, I made the layout anyway... all the papers and embellishments are from the Crate Paper's Mia Collection

It's a Good Life...

2010-08-22T11:31:00.005-03:00

It was hard to get any "pretty pictures" at the construction site of a new house Jordan and Luca are building..however a few flowers, lots of free hand cut shapes,some fingernail distressing and Liam's crooked pants certainly lent to the charm of this Layout,hee hee

All papers are from Cosmo Cricket's L'il Man and Snorkel Collection...

A Book of Me...

2010-08-20T09:28:00.011-03:00

I've been working on this little toilet roll album and box to store it in, for the past three weeks... whenever Liam ( my 3 year old grandson ) is napping..I am also preparing a picture/tutorial based on this album that I will make available, once I am back in Canada in October..

I was so fortunate that I had some digitals with me, that I had scanned from some of my ancestry photographs, which I was able to use for this album...

The papers, including cardstock and epoxy stickers are from the S.E.I.'s BEAUTIFUL Moravia Collection ..

I have so few supplies with me here in Italy..papers,some stamps and fortunately a sewing shop not too far away, where I was able to purchase ribbon and embroidery floss...just goes to show you, eh??

The slideshow tutorial on how to make this type of album is shown here:
http://kindakrafty.blogspot.com/2010/11/toilet-paper-roll-tutorial.html

Darling Girl...

2010-08-06T08:41:00.005-03:00

I think I'm hooked on these toilet roll albums...it is such a neat idea...great brag books, like this one I made for the my grandaughter Kiara's "other" Nonna...it's big enuff for 2 3/4" x 3 1/2" photos and so easy to make...fits inside a plastic sandwich bag and just toss it in your purse so you can bore...errrrr I mean...delight all your friends!!

At the Park...

2010-07-31T13:47:00.003-03:00

Oulx, Italy has such a nice family park...it is an old apple orchard donated by a local patrone several years ago... there are lots of swings, slides and general kid's stuff, along with many park benches for old foggies like me to sit and enjoy the views..another amazing part to this park are the wonderful marble sculptures carved by local artisans...all in all a great place to spend a few hours!!

Lunch amongst the Ruins...

2010-07-29T08:30:00.004-03:00

About 20 minutes further up the mountain in Sauze-Oulx,lies some old ruins, hunting lodges we think..one which has been bought and turned into an awesome ristorante...what an incredible place!!...the food was great... the scenery was breathtaking ( errrrr...so was the drive on the NARROW twisty road )....I took almost 100 photos....and the only problem I had was picking these 8 for the Layout...

Buongiorno from Italy!!

2010-07-29T06:51:00.006-03:00

Sorry that Ive been M.I.A., I arrived in Italy to visit with Jordan and the kids on July 13th and promptly came down with strep throat...finally feeling better..

Thought I"d drop off a simple Layout I created of Liam showing me how to "Train his Dragon"...he really is a warrior child....not that I feel any safer from the dragons over here!!

I will post more LO"s and projects when Liam is napping... hee hee