Scrapper's Edge

Scrapbooking Beyond the Basics!

Our "Beyond the Basics" Scrapbooking class last week helped participants learn how to make two pages have a cohesive, visually appealing design.  If you missed it, here's the basic instructions:

Tips:

• You can easily “tie” two pages together by having elements meet in the middle.
• Repeat the “menu” on  page 1 with different patterned papers and cardstocks for a different look.
• Don’t like buttons?  Exchange them  with flowers, brads, rhinestones or other embellishments!

 Most importantly, have fun and enjoy your creative process!

 

 

Cardmaking Stash Builder!

Every other month we featuring a fun Cardmaking Stash Builder workshop where participants make six cards in two hours.  The class tonite was so much fun.  In case you missed it, here's the pictures and measurements.  Doing them at home won't be nearly as much fun as being in class, however, because in class almost everything is pre-cut for you!

Don't miss the next Cardmaking Stash Builder Workshop.  It will be on Thursday, March 28th.  For more information, visit our website at: http://www.scrappersedge.net/Classes.html

Wild about Washi!

Washi tape is simply paper tape with patterns on it.  It's available in a wide variety of colors and patterns.  It can be used in fun, creative ways to make embsllishments and accents or simplly applied in straight lines on your craft projects.

One thing I enjoy doing with it is making flowers!  So, check out these easy steps:

1.  Punch or cut a circle using cardstock. (I didn't have a circle punch the size I needed, so I traced the center of a washi tape spool and cut it out!  It was the perfect size.)

2.  Pleat the washi tape around the outside of the circle as shown.  

3.  Complete the circle and tuck the cut edge under a pleat.

4. Pleat the wash tape around the inside of the circle.

5. Add a button, brad, rhinestone or other embellishment to center of flower.

Next, apply your beautiful flower on a card or other project!

If you don't like the first flower you create, don't fret.  I threw my first one in the garbage.  My next one was terrific!  

To practice this technique and others, you can always join us for my "Wild about Washi Cardmaking Class" on November 7th!  Read more about it:  http://www.scrappersedge.net/Classes.html

 Call to register:  707-445-9686

I'm addicted to Distress Stains!

Yes, that's right.  My name is Sondra and I'm a Distress-Stain-Aholic!  They are SO easy and fun to use.  

Here's a fun tag I created followed by the steps used:

1.  Stamp / Heat emboss an image using clear embossing powder.

2.  Dab puddles of blue Distress Stain (Broken China) to top of tag and use a craft scraper to scrape it downward across the tag toward the middle.

3.  Dab puddles of green distress Stain (Peeled Paint) to bottom of tag and use a craft scraper to scrape it upward across the tag toward the middle, overlapping the blue stain applied in step 1.

4.  Dab smaller puddles of darker blue Distress Stain (Chipped Saphire) to top of tag and use craft scraper to scrape it downward across top, not as far as the lighter blue used in step 2.

5.  Dab smaller puddles of distress Stain (Vintage Photo) to bottom of tag and use craft scraper to scrape it upward across bottom, not as far as the green used in Step 3.

The heat embossed area will work as a resist, so the color of the tag shows through!

If you do not have a craft scraper, you can use an old credit card or other plastic card.  It helps to work on a non-stick craft sheet.  In fact, when I puddle the distress stain on the area of the tag, I puddle part of it on the craft sheet as well and then drag the puddles through the tag.  

I have been experimenting with these stains alot lately.  In fact, I've created 6 fun & easy background techniques that I'll be teaching October 23rd.  I'll also be covering how to paint and stamp with Distress Stains.  For more information, visit http://www.scrappersedge.net/Classes.html or stop by and see the samples!  Remember to pre-register by calling 707-445-9686.

Also, you can watch a video with a few of my favorite background techqniues here:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-v1yfASUsAk&feature=plcp

Happy crafting!

We're gearing up for our SMASH BASH workshops! Saundra J & I are teaming up to lead these incredible sessions, which combine scrapbooking, journaling and altered art.

I currently have three SMASH albums that I'm working on. One is the "about me" journal that I'm using as a class example. I'm using the RED SMASH album for this. Then, I'm using the PINK SMASH album to document my 2012 New Years Resolutions. And, finally, I'm using the ORANGE SMASH album as a tribute to my dad.

The biggest thing that surprised me when starting to use the SMASH albums and supplies is the SMASH STICK. One side is a great journaling pen and the other side is a glue stick. I generally do not like glue sticks but this one works not only smoothly, but well! It really gets the job done.

Since starting my SMASH journey, I have been obsessed. I've even dreamed about my books! Since the books include patterned pages, it makes the creative process easier and super fun. Hence, my new obsession.

Our first Workshop will be January 17th: Collage & Distress to Impress! Check out the workshop descriptions & schedule at:

http://www.scrappersedge.net/Classes.html

And, join the SMASH craze!

I LOVE the Distress Stains from Ranger! They are so fabulous. In fact, I'm looking forward to my upcoming class featuring Distress Stains, Paint Dabbers, Distress Ink Pads, Paper Doll templates, and a 9"x12" canvas!

Collage has never been so fun! Starting with a blank canvas and paper doll patterns, we'll transform patterned paper into a work of art.

If you want to attend, sign up in advance and bring 3-5 pieces of patterned paper, 1 or more bottles of Ranger Distress Stains, scissors and adhesive. Canvases, ink pads, patterns, paints, and embellishments will be provided.

Wednesday, September 21st
Sondra's Paper Doll Couture Canvas Workshop
5:30-7:30pm
$15

Call 707-445-9686 to sign up and visit www.scrappersedge.net for more information!

Quick Canvas Art

Canvas + Paint + Ink + Vinyl Word + Rub-ons + Stamps + Bling = One Beautiful Canvas!

Our mixed media specialist, Saundra James, taught an inspiring class tonite and I had the pleasure of attending.  No matter what your style, you can make a personal work of art for yourself or a gift.  Here's the basic steps:

• Paint the edges of the canvas with acrylic paint.
• Trim a piece of patterned paper a bit smaller than your canvas.
• Embellish your paper using ink, stamps, rub-ons, vinyl words, stickers, etc. (Basically, use anything "flat.")
• Spread Mod Podge or Medium to your entire canvas with a brush and add your patterned paper.  (I used Ranger Matte Medium.)
• Embellish with any dimensional items, such as flowers, rhinestones, etc.
• Hang on your wall or place on an easel and enjoy!

I actually made this piece for my Mom.  However, now that I've brought it home and noticed how well it matches my living room, I'm not sure if I'll be able to part with it.  I guess it's time to break out another canvas and get creative!

Distress to Impress

Ever since going to Ranger University in New Jersey, I've loved using the distress techniques I learned from Tim Holtz.  He is so creative and innovative.  Plus, he's so darn entertaining to listen to!

Two of our fantastic customers who live two hours away asked that I do a workshop on a Saturday so they can attend.  So, just for Karen and Darla (and everyone else who wants to attend) I am offering a "Distress to Impress" Workshop on Saturday, November 6th from 9am-1pm. 

Join us to learn TWELVE Distress techniques that I learned directly from the Distress King, Tim Holtz!  The Ranger Distress product line will be featured (Inks, Embossing Powders, Perfect Pearls, Paints, Stickles & more).  You will get a booklet containing detailed step-by-step instructions and get to practice the techniques on tags.  Please bring any Ranger Distress products you have, a heat gun, a tidy tray and any of your favorite stamps.

 
Call to sign up:  707-445-9686.

Monogram Card Sets make great gifts!

One of the things I enjoy creating the most is cards.  My friends and famlily love receiving my handmade treasures.  And, handmade card sets make fabulous gifts.  After giving a set to my best friend, Carol, she shared a terrific idea -- she keeps them in her car's glove compartment so whenever she's caught by surprise and needs a quick card, she has one handy.  What a great idea!

On November 8th, I'll be teaching a class where we'll create a set of SIX monogram cards using JustRite stamps.  JustRite stamps have interchangeable borders, centers and fonts which allow you tons of design options.  Either make this card set for yourself or for a very special gift!  Class fee includes all materials, envelopes, and even a clear plastic box to store the card set.  Along with your basic kit, please bring a white gel pen and adhesive foam dots. 

If you have't used the JustRite stamps yet, this class is for you.  If you need a set of cards for yourself or to give as a gift, this class is definitely for you!  All skill levels encouraged to attend.

Call 707-445-9686 to sign up!

 

Cardmaking with Copics!

As I've shared in my Copic Classes before, I didn't want to like Copic markers.  I had customers request that we carry them and I resisted and resisted until the requests were simply too overwhelming to resist any longer.  So, we started stocking them about a year ago and then I attended Copic Certification class in January.  I was instantly hooked in the first 30 minutes of class!

Alcohol-based Copic Markers are the best markers for coloring and blending.  Period.   I don't know why I resisted them at first.  I was probably afraid I'd develop another addiction -- and I did!  They're absolutely fabulous.  The inks blend so well and don't "tear up" papers like other markers do. 

While I've taught various beginning and advanced Copic Classes this year, I'm very excited for my next class.  Not only will we be using common blending techniques, but also doing airbrushing! 

Join us if you can to make three fabuolous fall-themed cards!  Wednesday, October 27th, 5:30-7:30pm.  To sign up, call 707-445--9686 or visit our website for more information:  http://www.scrappersedge.net/Classes.html