symmetry

School Scrapbook

Okay, you deserve it!  I haven't posted many projects lately, but I've been busy at work.  Here is a peek at my latest scrapbook.

I had a client request a couple albums for her boys.  She requested basic albums with a touch of personality.  The first boy is more adventurous and the second is into sports.  I didn't want to incorpoate anything that would conflict with their own personal experiences, so I left them stylish, but simple.

I made all the 13 years pages the same layout.  The front page is to hold the graduation photo.  The top label (I erased) had the child's name printed on it.  The bottom strip is actually a pocket, with a journaling label.

I added some cork sheet cutouts to add some well-known school texture.  The color adds a touch of flair as well.

I did use my Cricut to cut a few embellishments, but everything else is Stampin' Up.  The center mat is 5x7 here, and the two side mats could be used for photos or memorabilia like a tassel.

Here is a two page spread.  I had three page color combos that I alternated.  It keeps it flowing without becoming too drab. 

On this album, I sponged the edges for an aged look.  I'm not sure if you can tell, but the stars album is glittered.

When I design a scrapbook, (after consulting with the client, of course) I think of the bigger picture first.  I look at what I want the whole album to be, then break it down by element.  For instance, I knew that I needed a title, a pocket, and a photo mat on each page.  Then I look at adding embellishments using the rule of threes.

Oh!  I almost forgot to mention that the journaling mat is actually a pocket.  This leaves room for special momentos such as report cards.  Obviously this is the a very basic school album, but now I wish I had one for me. 

I hope you enjoyed my school scrapbook.  Happy stamping! 

Science Party Invite

I shared this a few posts ago, and I wanted to update it, but I thought I'd share the inside as well. 

Party Planning Tip:

I love the colors here, and when I get to the party pics, you'll see why.  I based the color choice on the plates I used.  I have found after a few years of party planning that if you pick your theme, especially plates first, then its easier to design everything else.

For more information on this card see this post.

 
I found a cute little science guy pic that I was able to resize, cut out and then color.  It was a little work, but I only needed a handful of them.   Everything else I free handed.

  I couldn't find template, so I drew up another one.  One is in pieces so you can see the two colors.  The reason I decided to make 2 parts that only slightly overlap was because if they were not lined up perfectly, the white part would show under the color. 

Happy stamping!

Birthday Bags and a Spongy Trick

Thanks for dropping by today!

My, my!  I can't stand this summer heat.  I've been joking around that it's so humid my eyeballs are fogging up!  I just got in from pulling weeds in my garden.  It's the first time I've gardened since I was young and I was so worried I'd pull out my veggies, I didn't weed it for a long time!  I've got some green beans growing and the carrots (I pulled up by accident.) are so cute and little.  I still have tons more to weed this weekend, but hopefully we'll be eating yummy fresh veggies soon!

I've been renovating my house along with this color renovation, and as I clean out my rooms I'm finding fun organization tricks.  I thought I'd share one tonight.  It's quick, easy and inexpensive!  

So my sponges always drive me crazy.  I don't have a drawer thingy that will fit my markers, so they are stored with my ink pads. (I'll get a pic later.)  Then my sponges were so mixed together in a drawer it drove me crazy when I wanted the right one.  I knew I wanted to label them.  (I think I saw that idea on Angie's site at Chic'n Scratch.)  I used my Dymo to print little name labels, but I love the color tabs! 

Anyway, I LOVE sponging, so I want them accessible, so I thought I'd give Velcro a shot and voila!  It works beautifully!  At first I was going to attach them to the side of my shelf, but the idea of a clipboard sounded wonderful!  I tried it out, and I must say I do think we have a winner! 

Seven sponges fit in a row, which bummed me out a little because I wanted to keep my groups of ten together, but all my colors will easily fit on the board.  (I'll show you what it looks like when I'm finished.)  I hope you have fun making your own!

Gee, I guess I'm in a talkative mood tonight.  Sorry about that!  On to my card.

This is a new level 1 hostess set called Birthday Bakery.  What do you think?  This set is too cute!  I made a few samples playing with the new In Colors.  I'm really impressed with the new In Colors line.  I'm also loving this new ribbon!  You can grab some for only $5 in my Shoppe too! 

The Goods: Stamps- Birthday Bakery; Paper- Whisper White, Soft Suede, Poppy Parade, Blushing Bride; Ink- Soft Suede, Poppy Parade, Blushing Bride; Misc- Markers, AquaPainter, Big Shot, Texturz Plates, Poppy Parade Ribbon, Brads, Dimensionals.

Like always, shoot me an email with any questions!  Have a good night!!

Click HERE to order Stampin' Up!

Photo Cube

Good evening ladies!

I finally finished up my photo cube!  All those tiny squares took more attention than I thought.  But then, I tend to be a perfectionist.

A couple tips: 

• Print photo a tad larger than the entire square.  This way you can trim the pieces smaller around the edges to leave the faces in tact.
• Score the back into thirds prior to cutting.  This is easier to cut with scissors because of the size.  You can also make sure the photo looks good cut prior to doing all the work.
• Work on one side at a time.  I began gluing multiple sides and the pieces were sliding around.  Make sure to allow drying time in between.

I think that's about it.  Other than it taking some time, it was a fun project. 

Have a great night!  I'll see you tomorrow!!

Click HERE to ORDER Stampin' Up!

Back From the Bermuda Triangle!!!

Actually it was Oregon! 

I just had the most wonderful time at my brother's wedding!  I have only been to the ocean once, and it was the east coast.  This trip was AMAZING!  I loved all the lush gardens and NO BUGS!!! The down side is that they have more rain than sunshine, but the weather was perfect for their vows on the beach.

(If you'd like to see Oregon photos, here is my album- If you click on the picture you can see a description.)

I apologize for being away for so long.  I may be a bit slow catching up this week, but I hope to begin posting daily again.  I also am working behind the scenes on my technical stuff.  So here is today's post:

I can't believe how time flies!!!

I had SO many ideas and goals at the beginning of 2010 and some things came up that I had to set aside my stamping for a while.  That's alright.  Here we are at the beginning of a new Stamping Up year.  Yea!!! So I'm ready to go!

Coaster Post-It Holder

Today I wanted to share my swap from last weekend.  I haven't had a chance to go pick mine up yet, but I'm sure I have some goodies waiting for me!

I used our returning colors Wild Wasabi and Baja Breeze paired with Whisper White and Chocolate Chip.  I love this Watercolor Trio set in the Summer Mini Catalog.  I mounted my CS to coasters and used my Bind-It-All to make a cute little Post-It Holder.  I used the Large Oval Punch and the Scallop Oval Punch with Dimensionals for the greeting.  I finished it off with a piece of White Taffeta Ribbon.  (We have a lot of retiring ribbon this catalog.  I can't wait to see what's new!  I just love ribbon.) 

I used the baby wipe stamp pad technique on this card.  I love how quick and efficient it is! Here's how to do it: 

1. Stamp image on a baby wipe with Staz-On permanent ink.  My image shows up really light, but all you need is an outline for the ink drops.
   
2. Using ink refills, drop color on the image where you want color on your stamp.
3. Now you have a custom stamp pad, ready to use again and again!
4. Tips: #1- You only need a few drops of ink.  If you over-saturate it, it will spread out away from the image.  #2- Your ink will spread out after a while, so it's best to have your paper prepared.  
   

I love the watercolor look you get with this technique.

I stamped over 30 images, and could have kept going.

BTW- Your stamp will get messy.  I just used the end of the baby wipe when I was finished to wipe it down, and it was good as new!

It's that easy!  I am excited to used this technique on Christmas cards!

Email me if you have any questions.  Happy Stamping!

Click HERE to ORDER Stampin' Up!

Scrapbook Layout- Lots of Pics

I didn't explain much last night.  This album was a gift so I was limited in the personal touches.  What you will see with the layouts though is that many of them are non-directional, meaning you can turn the page anyway you like.  I hope you enjoy these layouts and adapt them for your our albums!

The entire album was created using In Colors and Razzleberry Lemonade DSP.  I coordinated it with just a few stamp sets. 

*Using the KISS (Keep it simple stampers!) method helps create a more cohesive, less time-consuming album you will enjoy for years to come! 

I just LOVE these quilt type layouts.  #1 it will hold quite a few pictures or embellishments.  #2 it looks clean no matter how many items you add.

This first page hold 3x3 photos.  It is embellished with simple stamping (Razzle Dazzle and Circle Circus), flowers from Vintage Vogue, butterflies, and the new border punch. 

The second page has a 6x6 square in the center and 2 1/2" all around.  I added a piece of Swirly sizzlit and Melon Mambo Polka Dot Ribbon.

With so many squares, it is fun and simple to add photos, embellishments and journaling as you like.

I'm off to bed!  Have a great night, I'll share a few pages tomorrow!

Thanks for stopping by tonight!

Click HERE to order Stampin' Up!

Punch Power

This is just a quick something I'm working on for my open house.  I thought you may enjoy it.  I call it 'Punch Power'.  

I love the versatility of punches.  You can transform the look and feel of your stamp in a quick, easy punch!  This stamp is from the Level 1 hostess set, Holiday Best. (I'm gearing up for Christmas Camps!)

I am so exhausted from a day out and about.  I was hoping for a day to stamp.  Tomorrow we will be out most of the day as well.  I did have a chance to play around with my new Pop-Up Christmas Tree die.  I'll show you that tomorrow.

Have a wonderful night!

Build-A-Bear & CuttleBug Tip!

Good Morning Ladies!

I'm sorry I haven't been around the past couple days.  I have been busy preparing for my open house.  I was disappointed when my endo woke me up this morning and now I have to postpone it until October 3rd. 

Anyway, I discovered something really cool this week.

I can't believe it took me this long to figure out, but Big Shot dies fit in the Cuttlebug!  I knew the Sizzlits would.  I just had no idea the Bigz dies would as well.  This means ALL of the EXCLUSIVE Stampin' Up dies that you love are compatible with the Cuttlebug!  If you have any questions concerning this let me know!

Now on to the cuteness!

I made my first clothed bears yesterday and they are stinkin' cute!  This first bear is Creamy Caramel wearing the Pawsitively Prints DSP paired with Brocade Blue, Old Olive and Chocolate Chip.  I love how these bears fit perfectly on a card!  I threw some Pumpkin Pie ribbon and an Ice Square Rhinestone brad on it to finish it off.  Isn't he cute!

I already have SO MANY IDEAS of how to use these puppies (bears)!

This little sweetie is also Creamy Caramel wearing the Pawsitively Prints DSP, Old Olive and Pretty in Pink.  I thought she looked perfect on our new Treat Boxes ! 

(I thought I'd show you the front of the box as well.  These are on my favorites list this year!)  These boxes are a wonderful size and can be used for any occasion.  They are only $3.95 for a package of 5!  You can find them on page 159 in the catalog (115690). 

I just think of all the adorable occasions these can be used.  I can't wait to come up with wedding bears! 

Here is a list of the individual stamps and dies: (finally!)

Build-A-Bear and Stampin' Up team up!

Hey ladies!

Typepad is having some issues, but I'm going to attempt this.  I'll get more posted when it's fixed.  I have spent the morning prepping photos, and still no luck.

I plan on showing you Build-A-Bear projects all week long. Here's a little sneak peek.

Build-A-Bear has teamed up with Stampin' Up!  I am SO excited about this.  Who doesn't love Build-A-Bear.  Now I think of invitations, cards, scrapbook pages, paper dolls, but the possibilities are endless!

Available are 3 new stamp sets, 5 new Big Shot dies and Designer Series Paper to match!

You've got to check these darling things out!  (Please use the Stampin' Up link above since I can't add links right now)

MY BUILD-A-BEAR SPECIAL! (This is only good when ordered here!)

For every $20 you spend on Build-A-Bear you will receive a free project kit from me! The more you spend, the more you get!

(I'll get more specials out later this week.  There are so many fun new things in the HUGE mini catalog!)  If you haven't checked it out yet, use the Stampin' Up link above- you won't be disappointed!

These projects are from a Demo shoebox swap I attended this weekend.  I love this waffle looking technique.  (I ran cardstock both ways through my crimper with even pressure, and then used a sponge to lightly ink the embossed part only.  It almost looks like designer paper.)  Oh, the balloon fits perfectly in the 3/4" circle punch as well.  I love that!  (The colors here are Soft Suede, Ballet Blue , and Certainly Celery.)

This next card is also too cute! The DSP is from the new Build-A-Bear line.  I just used markers and a blender pen to color everything.  Using the Stamp-A-Ma-Jig makes lining up stamps a breeze!  A touch of Real Red really pops on the blue.

That reminds me, I haven't done a marker club in a while!  If you are interested please send me an email.  (I'll post more details this week- when Typepad goes back to normal.)

Ya know, if you love stamping as much as I do you should join my stampin' team!  You can make extra cash, receive discounts, and buy the newest stamps before they hit the market!  You become a part of a wonderful stamping community and there are never any obligations.  To join now please use the Stampin' Up link above.  You will need the password SYMMETRY.  If you have questions please email me at symmetrystamps@gmail.com, thanks!

I'm going to attempt posting on Splitcoast today.  Hopefully all goes well.  Have a wonderful Labor Day!

Rubber hugs!

The More The Merrier!

Don't forget about your hostess benefits! 
Shop with me and receive all the benefits of an in-home party!  You won't find these specials on Stampin' Up's site. 

Host a Virtual Party with me and earn this set FREE!  The More the Merrier is a Level 3 hostess set this year.  I am having a blast with it.  Get yours today when you hold a party!  Any online order ON MY SITE over $500 qualifies. 

Do these samples look familiar?  I used the same template as yesterday.  I love the way these turned out.  I had so much fun playing with this last night.  I decided to showcase the snowman card today with those fun little snowflakes.

Quick tip using the Martha Stewart snowflake punch.  I was looking for a bit of variance and look how cute these turned out!  Three adorable snowflakes with one punch.  It is quick and easy to snip it down to the other sizes.  I do love this punch!

The Goods: Stamps- The More The Merrier; Paper- Soft Suede, Bermuda Bay, Whisper White; Ink- Soft Suede; Misc- Markers, Paper Piercer, MS Snowflake Punch, Rhinestone Brad, Dazzling Diamonds.

I'll be showing you the rest throughout the week!  I am having SNOW much fun getting my class together!  I'll let you know when I have the details finalized.

BLOG CANDY coming soon!

See you in a bit!

Some fun ideas!

I hope everyone is having a wonderful day!  I am finally getting something done around here!  I'm starting off with a picture of Teresa's blog candy.  I've been bad about getting my blog candy pictures uploaded.  I decided since it was the new year, I gave her several little calendars, coasters, valentines ribbons, punchies, a few bottle caps, and a couple 3x3 card candy kits, and one I had completed.  I'll try to get my card candy samples up one of these days.  I threw in a couple cards as well!

Quick Tip #1: Alright, don't laugh but out of desperation several months ago I hot-glued these bees to my sons' wall.  (Winnie the Pooh theme)  Well, getting prepared to move, I thought I'd better clean up the mess now.  Surprisingly, there was not one blemish!  I also used hot glue on a piece of cork in my stamp room to adhere it to the wall. Again, it didn't hurt the wall!  SO if you're not sure how to get that funny thing on the wall, try hot-glue!

I grabbed the photos of my son's thank you cards from December to share.  Nothing special, just quick cards.  The bears took about an hour to cut out.  I used my Cuttlebug for a fast, fun background.  I believe it was the Spots and Dots folder.  I used Bashful Blue, Certainly Celery and Whisper White CS.  The Bear is Stamped in Brocade Blue.

Quick Tip #2: I made an extra card to record all the gifts he received.  This way you have a card to scrap, and the list all in one!

This next card is a prototype I made for my son's invitation to his birthday carnival!  I thought it would be fun, but my husband talked me out of it, for now.  We have so much going on right now, and with preparing to move it will make such a large party difficult to plan.  So it will be great for next year!  I am going to take advantage of the extra time to plan! 

I made the stripes with paper, but I plan on using the Stripes background.  I used the scalloped edge punch along the awning.  I used a 1 3/8" square on the card center, pushed it all the way in, and flipped it and punched again, so it was even.  The tickets are the Designer label punch.  The ice cream cone is a Quickutz die.  The balloons are from Bitty Birthday.  I embossed the Real Red with Textured Stripes from Cuttlebug, and the background is Summer Sun.  This is one party even I am excited about!  Now back to the drawing board... I have no idea what to do for him this year!

And FINALLY!  Here is the Quick Gift Card Holder instructions!  I'm sorry it took so long to get up here.  Download Quick Gift Card Holder

Have a great day!  Thanks for stopping by! -Hannah

Fundamental Friday!

It's time for a tip! 
Get your scissors good as new! As I was working last night with sticky scissors, (YUCK!) I reached for my handy rubbing alcohol.  It takes a few minutes, but it works wonders for getting rid of the stickies!  I love using it on price tags as well!  Simply use a Q-Tip dipped in rubbing alcohol and rub it onto the stickiness; it takes a few minutes is all.  Hope this helps!

For today's post I wanted to share a cute little blessings basket I am making for thanksgiving gifts.  I threw candy in it for now as a centerpiece.  I found these baskets half-off at Hobby Lobby for under $1!  I threw a simply tag on it using Harvest Home.  I also used the spritzed markers technique.  I popped up a few leaves to make it more festive.

I have a few goodies for you tomorrow!  See you then! 
Have a good weekend!
-Hannah

3 Points of Rubber Stamping

Thanks for stopping by today!  I am anxiously awaiting my cupcakes kit to show you my wonderful class coming up!!!  I will try to get my special card kit posted later on, my boys have been needy today.  Today's card is another too cute Stampin' Up sample from regionals.  

My 3 most important pointers for Rubber stamping are:

1.  Never twist a stamp!  Always set on paper, press firmly with even pressure, and pull straight up.

2.  There are 2 sides to a piece of paper!  Always stamp image before adhering your project together in case you'd like to try again.

3.  There are no mistakes, only opportunities!  Some of the greatest accomplishments in life come from the "oopsies."

Just have fun with it!  See you later!
-Hannah