{capture the moment}

1

Spellbinders Nestabilities are now available for purchase at Papertrey Ink

---> Christine asked...Do you know how much each shape set would weigh?

Each individual shape's entire set weighs 0.8 lbs, with each of the four sets within that weighing 0.2 lbs. each.

---> Aimee asked...This is great, but I have to admit to still being a little confused! LOl. Anyway, will the regular dies mat on the scalloped die? For example, if I order the LARGE set of scallop and regular circles, will the largest circle layer onto the largest scallop? KWIM? I should I order LARGE scallops and SMALL circles?

Truth be told, it really matters what your personal preference is and what look you are going for.  Here it is broken down visually to help illustrate what I am trying to say...

This is all of 5 of the scalloped ovals from the LARGE set, die-cut from pink cardstock.

Here are the LARGE standard ovals, die-cut from white cardstock, layered on top of the LARGE scalloped ovals.  You can see that pretty much just the scallops extend from the edges of the standard oval.

Here are the SMALL standard ovals, die-cut from white cardstock, layered on top of the same LARGE scalloped ovals.  There is a lot more space around the standard oval exposed.

So you see, it is really a matter of what kind of look you prefer.  A lot of scallop or a little?  Here are two identical cards I created.

This card uses a LARGE standard oval and a LARGE scalloped oval.

While this card uses a SMALL standard oval and the same LARGE scalloped oval.  Is this making any sense now, I hope?!!?!?

So, if you like a little scallop to show, you want to order LARGE scalloped & LARGE standard (in any shape, not just the ovals).  If you like a lot of scallop, go with the LARGE scalloped & SMALL standard.

While this is the last day of the countdown, I wanted to end with a BIG cyberhug for my dearest friend, cheerleader, inspiration & mentor, Ellen Hutson.  She presented the entire concept behind Nestabilities to Spellbinders and followed through with her visions for this product.  She allowed me to be a part of it, and for this I am so thankful.  Not only is the product amazing & revolutionary, but she holds the same characteristics within herself.  Her generosity and willingness to support me while I have begun this endeavor with Papertrey has been worth more to me than I can say.  So cheers to you, Ellen.  Here's to a beautiful friendship!

1-1/2

Spellbinders Nestabilities are now available for purchase from Papertrey Ink

NOTE TO SELF: There are 31 days in July...So I goofed and started the countdown a day early.  I told you yesterday that next we would discuss materials you can use with these dies.  I had fun playing around today and came up with a few fun things.

For this project I ran fabric through with a scalloped rectangle die.  I was amazed at how crisp the cut was.  I also ran a piece of ivory cardstock through with the same die and adhered the two together to create some added stability.  I stitched around the edge of the fabric block with my sewing machine and dabbed a little distressing ink on for good measure.  I then embossed the rectangle frame onto my green card front (you can see a step-by-step tutorial on how to do this HERE).  The twill tape was stamped with some french script as a finishing touch.

I really like the texture the fabric added to my project.  The Palette inks stay nice and vibrant on fabric too, which I love.

I got inspired when I saw Trudee's post on making wine charms with these dies.  I decided to try making my own buttons.  I die-cut clear shrink plastic with the scalloped square and punched two holes using my 1/4-inch handheld hole punch.  I stamped it with Claret Palette ink (these work just as well as StazOn, just more colors to choose from!)

After it was heated it shrunk down to about the size of an American quarter.  I was so thrilled!  I die-cut white cardstock with the next to smallest scalloped square and backed the button with it, tying it with a little scrap of pink ribbon.  Wouldn't this be the cutest embellishment for a card?  Or as an addition to a paperclip?  I bet you could make really cute ribbon slides with the rectangle & oval too; maybe I need to try that tomorrow!

So some other materials that work well with these dies are vellum, tissue paper (I bet you could make the cutest little rosettes forr gift wrapping with the scalloped circles!), thin sheet metal, cork paper or even thin chipboard (such as that from a cereal box).  I am sure all of YOU will come up with an even longer list once you get your hands on these to play in your own little creative space!

Fern Card Supplies:

Ink: Jardin Moss Palette Ink

Stamps: fern image from Text Boxed set by Papertrey, London Script from Stampabilities

Paper: Always Artichoke cardstock from SU!

Other: twill tape from SU!, copper brads from Nunn Designs

Button Supplies:

Ink: Claret Palette Ink

Stamps: spiral Flower from Text Boxed by Papertrey

Paper: Stamper's Select white cardstock from Papertrey Ink

Other: Clear Polyshrink from Lucky Squirrel

2

Spellbinders Nestabilties are now available for purchase through Papertrey Ink

---> Charlene asked...How do I know if I should buy the small rectangle set or the large rectangle set. If I am seeing your side by side pictures correctly they all seem similar in size to me. I think I am confused on the sizes of each set of 5.

Here is a photo of both the LARGE & SMALL scalloped rectangle sets combined, from largest to smallest.

In order to seperate them into the LARGE and SMALL sets individually, I pulled EVERY OTHER die from the group, starting with the second to largest.  The top row (which begins with the largest die) is considered the LARGE scalloped rectangle set.  The bottom row (which begins with the second to largest die) is considered the SMALL scalloped rectangle set.  So essentially, the two sets are very similar in the range of sizes they cover.  It just means that if you own both sets, you have more intervals between the largest and smallest dies.

---> Karen asked...I know everyone is different and it's probably hard to answer this - but if I could only buy one shape right now - which shape do you think is the most versatile? Which one do you use most - square, rectangle, oval or circle???

That IS difficult to answer!  Here are my PERSONAL opinions on who the different shapes might appeal to...

CIRCLES: These are great for monograms & tags.  I see myself using them most to coordinate with modern styles.

OVALS: Fantastic for matting an image, especially sentiments, since most are enlongated.  This type of shape lends itself to more vintage or formal looks, I think.

SQUARES: Fun to use as mats for symetrical embellishments or images.  The largest die makes a fantastic scalloped card.  I think these shapes lend themselves to a more whimsical style.

RECTANGLES: A more classic, traditional look.  I find myself using the standard rectangles with the embossed edge for my focal point images quite often.  I like them because the work fabulously either horizontally or vertically, so it is almost a 2-for-1 deal.

I don't know if that was helpful or not, but it is just my 2-cents!

---> Suzy asked... Will these work at all with the borders sets you just came out with?

YES, with just a few exceptions!  I originally designed the Borders & Corners stamp sets to coordinate with the Marvy punches, put have found that they are a FABULOUS compliment to the Nestabilities Dies as well!  Michelle has a cool tutorial --->HERE<--- that illustrates how she matches up the stamps & dies.

There is a doodled loop border in each Borders & Corners sets.  It is intricately designed to place a "loop" in each of the individual scallops of the Marvy punches.  The Nestabilities dies have more "humps" than the Marvy punches, so this SPECIFIC characteristic will not coordinate perfectly.  BUT if you just use the die that is the next size up, it is large enough so that it doesn't matter that there is not a "loop" in each scallop.  (The photo to left shows the punched shape with the stamped border vs. the larger die-cut shape w/ border).  It just acts as a standard frame. 

Borders & Corners Oval will coordinate perfectly with just a little bit of fiddling.  The cool thing about acrylic stamps is the their flexibity and the ability to form them to fit your needs.  The Nestabilities Oval Dies are slightly rounder in shape than the Marvy Punches.  So to make the stamps work, you just have to manipulate them ever so slightly.  The best way to do this is to die-cut you oval from scrap cardstock.  Place it on your work surface and then put your block directly on top of it.

You can then take your stamp and hold it just slightly over the surface of the block and push in the sides just hair until it matches up with the shape of your die-cut.  You can then lightly press it onto your block.  Perfect match! 

Here is a card I made using the oval border stamp along with the oval die-cuts.

Borders & Corners Rectangles DO NOT coordinate with the Nestabilities Dies.  They have different proportions and rectangle stamps can not be manipulated like the ovals.  But that is not to say you can't USE the Borders & Corners Rectangles with the rectangle dies!  In this project I die cut my scalloped rectangle from ivory cardstock.  I then stamped one of the rectangle borders towarrds the top of the die-cut. 

I love the space left open underneath the stamped border.  It serves as the perfect little "nook" to tuck-in a sentiment, a row of brads, paper piercing, a line of rhinestones, knotted ribbons or some other embellishment.

Tomorrow I will be showing you the different MATERIALS you can use with these dies, so be sure to come back y'all, you hear!!!

ETA: The stick pin used on the Wishing you well Card is from Nunn Designs.  I've had mine for ages, but I found them in stock --->HERE<---

WISHING YOU WELL CARD SUPPLIES:

Ink: Aegean Blue Versamagic, Pale Olive Memories Chalk Ink

Stamps: Faux Ribbon (sentiment), Borders & Corners Oval (frame)

Paper: Shenendoah from Vintage Home Collection by Webster's Pages, small blue pindot from Scenic Route

Other: satin ribbon from Chatterbox, stick pin from Nunn Designs

BIRTHDAY WISHES CARD SUPPLIES:

Ink: Noir Black Palette, Cranberry Crisp from SU!

Stamps: Paper Tray (sentiment), Borders & Corners Rectangle from Papertrey Ink

Paper: Sophia from Foof-a-la, Black Beetle cardstock from Bazzill

Other: gingham ribbon from May Arts, black brad from Paper Studio

 

3

Spellbinders Nesabilities are now available for purchase through Papertrey Ink

Many of you have been asking more about the embossing features of the new Nestabilities dies.  Especially the details as to whether you can just cut without embossing the image.  And what is the process if you did want to emboss the image?  It's all about your "sandwiches"!  (mmmm, turkey on sourdough is my favorite. Is it lunchtime yet? *wink*)

In this photo I have just completed running a standard rectangle die through using the "cutting sandwich" appropriate for my machine.  (See compatibility list to see what is best for your machine). After you have peeled away the perimeter "scrap" that surrounds the die-cut image, you are left with this.  Notice how nicely the die-cut cardstock lies within the boundries of the raised cutting strip.  It is at this point that you are able to make the decision to emboss or not.  If you just remove the cardstock from the die now it will be a plain rectangle with no embossing.

If you decide to run the die BACK through with your "embossing sandwich", you will end up with this.  Notice how the center of the cardstock has been "smooshed" into the flat base (frame) of the die, creating an embossed rim, just inside the cut edge.  There was no need to line my basic rectangle back up within any boundries to perform this task, because I  had left it in place after I had completed the cutting step. 

So basically, there is a very simple technical explanation for all this.  If you press your die against a solid surface (your cutting sandwich), it will cut through the cardstock.  If you press your die against a soft surface (your embossing sandwich), it will emboss the cardstock. This makes it so easy to make the BIG decision- to emboss or not to emboss?!?!?  The choice is yours!

Here is my completed card using my embossed rectangle, along with a scalloped mat created with the coordinating scalloped rectangle.

Here is a close-up of how the embossed edge really adds a lot of detail to the project.

Tomorrow I will be talking about the compatibility of Papertrey's NEW Borders & Corners stamp sets and the Nestabilities dies.  Be sure to stop by!

Supplies:

Ink: Pesto & Dusty Lime Memories Chalk ink

Stamps: Green Thumb (grasshopper & sentiment), Little Lady (trail), Borders & Corners Rectangle (rounded rectangle frame) from Papertrey Ink

Paper: Ashville, Sawyer Ave from Scenic Route, white cardstock from Papertrey Ink

Other: white brads from Paper Studio

4

Spellbinders Nestabilities Dies are now available for purchase through Papertrey Ink.

---> Why are there less dies in the oval & rectangle sets vs. the circle & square sets?

The oval & rectangle sets have 20 dies in their respective collections, while the circle & square feature 26 dies each.  If you reference the photo to the left, you will see that the set of rectangle dies in comparison to the square dies, actually uses the same amount of material in production.  This is why both sets have the same cost.  The widest point of ALL the largest dies in each collection was fixed at 4-inches. When you are dealing with an enlongated shape, such as the rectangle, you can't get as many dies within the allowed space (when compared to the square collection) because the HEIGHT is prohibitive.   I hope I have explained myself clearly on that subject! *wink*

---> With regards to the smaller sets, how do I know which standard set coordinates with a particular scalloped set?

This is very easy!  The SMALL standard set of a particular shape coordinates with the SMALL scalloped set.  Smae goes for LARGE.  So for example, if you wanted to get started with one set of circles and you knew you wanted the larger size, you would purchase the LARGE Standard Circles and the LARGE Scalloped Circles.

---> What are the exact sizes of the dies?

Below I have listed the measurements for the largest & smallest dies in each shapes complete collection.  You can figure that there are dies in between the largest & smallest in 1/4-inch increments. (These measurements are in reference to the scalloped shapes).  I have included photos using an American quarter as a reference.  (Note: I do not own the circle Nestabilities set, so I was unable to provide a visual for it, but the remaining three sets will give you a good idea of the size range.)   

CIRCLE ---> LARGEST- 4.2 x 4.2 inches  SMALLEST- 7/8 x 7/8 inches

OVAL --->     LARGEST- 4 x 3  SMALLEST- 3/4 x 9/16 inches

SQUARE ---> LARGEST- 4 x 4  SMALLEST- 7/8 x 7/8 inches

RECTANGLE ---> LARGEST- 4 x 3.2  SMALLEST- 7/8 x 11/16 inches

---> How do these dies compare to the Marvy Scalloped Punches?

Here is a side by side comparison of the appropriate sized Nestabilities Scalloped Ovals (LEFT) and the Marvy Punch equvilent (RIGHT).  The scallops on the Nestabilities are slightly deeper and the overall oval shape is a little rounder.  This photo gives you a fairly good idea of the little difference in the other shapes as well.

---> How do you store the Nestabilities dies?

I store mine in CD cases.  All of my scalloped ovals are in one, all of the standard ovals in another. Same goes for the remaining shapes. They are such a space saver!  I have heard of others using a magnet strip inside the case to help keep them in place too!

--->If I already own the scalloped punches, why would I be interested in the Nestabilities dies?

In my opinion, for the variety.  (The same reason we have more than one set of sentiment stamps or 3 different kinds of white cardstock).  Each type of tool or supply in my collection has different purposes to offer me a variety of results.

I will always LOVE my punches for the advantage of being able to stamp an image and invert my punch for perfect placement.  They are also "grab & go", without having to get out my die-cutting system out.

BUT the Nestabilities Die Collections are different and offer new capabilities...

-They emboss

-There are more sizes

-They take up less space

-I can place them wherever I want on a card front, without limitations, to create a scalloped window, whereas the punches are limited in this feature because of their design.

-Less expensive

-you can cut through materials other than cardstock (fabric, lightweight chipboard, cork, etc...)

-perfect matting & layering capabilities

-large enough to create shaped cards.

On that note, I also discovered that I could create a scalloped EDGED card with these dies!  (Can you tell that I am giddy about this product! *wink*)  After all that Q&A, I think it is HIGH time for a project!

Through some experimentation, I discovered that I can thread my card front through the die and just cut the bottom edge.  Notice how the raised strip I refered to yesterday is on top of the card where I do not want it to cut.  The area that I DO want cut is on the underside.  When I put it through my die-cutting system, the raised edge will be pressed through the cardstock, leaving me with a scalloped edge card. Here is an example of how you would place your card through the oval die.

As a disclaimer, (just 'cause I would want to know if it were me out there reading this!) depending on the thickness of you cardstock, (I used SU! 80lb. here) you will get a very SLIGHT impression of the die where it crosses over the upper part of your card.  It is not very noticeable (and I actually had a hard time picking it up with the camers).  I just fold my card so that this side faces the interior and it is completely forgotten!

Here is my completed card with the scalloped edge created by the oval die. I discovered that the little circle flower from Green Thumb matches Basic Grey's Tutti Frutti paper perfectly (note the tag!)

I used my 1/8" handheld hole punch to create a lace effect in each scallop.  I just love the way this card turned out and I am falling in LOVE with the possibilities that these dies pocess!

Real quick, I thought I would also show you what kind of edge a square die could add to your card front...

and the rectangle.  When doing this technique your cards have to be trimmed down to 3 3/4-inches in width to fit through the dies. I utilized the largest scalloped die of each shape set.

Well, if you are still with me, I would say you are well on your way to being completely knowledgeable about Nestabilities dies!  Believe it or not, I still have much, MUCH more to share with you tomorrow!

Supplies:

Ink: pretty in pink, rose red & taken with teal from SU!

Stamps: Green Thumb from Papertrey Ink

Paper: Tutti Frutti paper from Basic Grey, rose red cardstock from SU!, white from Papertrey

Other: Making Memories Tag Maker & rim, ribbon from Offray

ETA: Here are some answers to questions left on this post...

---> Suzy asked...are these metal? Will they be hard on our Cuttlebug? I know you said we need to use the foam with the plates but will it shorten the lifespan of our plates even with the foam?

Yes, these and ALL dies are made from metal.  The pressure is so great when running dies through a machine, that any material other than metal would not be able to hold-up to frequent use.  The only time you use the tan polymer mat in your "sandwich" is when you are embossing, otherwise you just use the standard plates, in reference to the Cuttlebug, this would be the "B" plate.  (You can refer to the compatibility list for a specific sandwich recipe).  The Nestabilities dies are no more damaging to the plates than your standard Cuttlebug dies.

5

Spellbinders Nestabilities Dies are now available for purchase through Papertrey Ink.

So are you ready to dive into the world of Nestabilities?  First let me start by explaining these revolutionary dies.  They are made out of metal and look like a frame of sorts.  Very different from other dies on the market, especially since they do not have any ejection foam.  Because of their frame-like design, the interior edge can act as an embossing template when "cushion" is added to the sandwich of plates run through your machine.  The photo below shows a close-up of how the die is actually constructed.

The base of the die is a very thin piece of metal and flat.  Running along the center of the base is a raised strip of metal.  This raised strip acts as your "die" and is what cuts your cardstock.  If you want to emboss the edge of your shape after you have cut it, you simply do not remove the shape from your die after  you have completed cutting, and run it back through the machine with the appropriate cushion.  The cushion provides the pressure needed to "push" the cardstock through the inner opening of the frame (base) of the die.  This action is what leaves the pretty embossed edge around your die cut shape!  I will be showing you more of this in detail later this week.

So to start I thought we would talk about compatibility.  The most popular question by far has been what machines these dies are compatible with.  The answer...pretty much all of them!  I own a Cuttlebug and QuicKutz Revolution and experimented myself with fantastic results.  Here is some information on sandwiching for various machines that I compiled with a combination of my personal results and findings from Spellbinders website.  If I haven't listed your specific machine, I am certain Spellbinders would be more than happy to answer any questions you may have....

Spellbinders Style Dies™ Compatibility


---> Zip’eMate™ by Accucut®

Capabilities
This machine is capable of cutting and embossing any Spellbinders Style Die™.

How-To
To use a Spellbinders Die in the ZEM:
1. Place Spellbinders die on ZEM's platform, blade side up.
2. Place paper over die and cut in the same manner as with Zip’eCuts.
3. After cut, do not remove the die or the paper from the platform, place ZEM's Embossing Foam over paper and with the
ZEM's Embossing Mat, roll through again to emboss the die-cut.



---> ZAZ™ by Accucut®

Capabilities
This machine is capable of cutting and embossing any Spellbinders Style Die™, except the larger, Size Four Spellbinders Dies.

How-To
To use a Spellbinders Die in the ZAZ™:
1. Place Spellbinders die on ZAZ™'s platform, blade side up.
2. Place paper over die and cut in the same manner as with Zip’eCuts™.
3. After cut, do not remove the die or the paper from the platform, place ZAZ™'s Embossing Foam over paper and with the
ZAZ™'s Embossing Mat, roll through again to emboss the die-cut.



---> Sizzix®
Capabilities
Sizzix® manufactures the Sizzix® Adapter™ and the Sizzix® System Converter™ which, together, allow the cutting of Spellbinders Style Dies™ that are smaller than the Sizzix® Adapter, which measures 2 3/8” by 2 5/8.” This includes most Spellbinders Fonts and Mystery Dies. The Sizzix® Adapters are sold in packages of ten and several can be used side by side to allow for the cutting of larger Spellbinders Style Dies™.

Sizzix® does not manufacture any kind of embossing pad or foam to allow the Spellbinders Style Dies™ to be embossed in the Sizzix® machine. However, Spellbinders Tan Emboss Pad can be used in the Sizzix® Machine.

How-To
To cut and emboss a Spellbinders Style Die™ in a Sizzix® Machine:
1. Place the Sizzix® System Converter into the Sizzix® Machine.
2. On the Cutting Pad, place paper to be cut, then the Spellbinders Style Die™, ridges down.
3. Place a Sizzix® Adapter over the Spellbinders Style Die™, then cut as normal.
4. Leave the cut paper in the die. Turn the die over so that the ridges are facing up, place back on the cutting pad – without
the Sizzix® Adapter.
5. Layer a Tan Emboss Pad over the die.
6. Press in the Sizzix® Machine. Shim with extra pieces of cardstock if needed.



---> Sidekick™ & Tag-a-Long™

Capabilities
The Sizzix® Adapter does allow the cutting of Spellbinders Style Dies™ with the Sidekick™ & Tag-a-Long™, but this is limited to most Spellbinders Fonts or Mystery Dies, due to the limiting size of the Sizzix® Adapter.

The Sidekick™ & Tag-a-Long™ do not allow for the embossing of Spellbinders Style Dies™.

How-To
To cut a Spellbinders Style Die™ in a Sidekick™ Machine or a Tag-a-Long™:
1. Place die, ridges up, onto a Sizzix® Adapter.
2. Place paper over die, roll through the Sidekick™ or Tag-a-Long™.



---> QuicKutz Revolution ®
Capabilities
The QuicKutz Revolution® is capable of cutting Spellbinders Style Dies™.

Embossing a Cardfront with the Cuttlebug

So as I stated before, I personally own the Cuttlebug, and I decided a good place to start was a photo tutorial on how to utilize the embossing feature of these dies. 

If you refer to the detail I went into earlier in reference to the actual BUILD of the dies, I stated that the frame (base) acted as your embossing agent and the raised strip performed the actual die-cutting.  What I discovered while playing around with Papertrey's 110lb. Stamper's Select White Cardstock is that the raised strip will NOT cut if you run it through your machine with the appropriate cushion, you can use IT to emboss too! (Note: I tried the SU! Whisper White cardstock witht his technique, but since it is a much thinner 80lb. the embossing results weren't as dramatic)

So first, the supplies.

Cuttlebug machine, A plate & two B plates (you can find these at Eclectic Paperie)

largest Plain Rectangle Nestabilities Die

white 4x5 cardbase, made from Papertrey Stamper's Select Cardstock

Spellbinders tan polymer mat

3 pieces of standard cardstock cut same size as polymer mat

Now for the layering process.  First lay your A plate followed by the B plate onto the Cuttlebug tray.

Next, you want to position the die, raised edge DOWN, onto the front of your card. 

Hold the die in place and carefully flip the card over and lay it on top of your B plate in your machine.

The next piece of the sandwich is 3 layers of cardstock.  I cut my cardstock to the same size as my tan polymer mat and store them with my Cuttlebug supplies so they are always ready.

Next up is the Spellbinders tan polymer mat.  This mat is part of their Charm Embossing Kit, which we will have available for pre-order along with the dies.  I have heard some say they have seen success with a thin mousepad, but from personal experience, I had no luck with this.  In my opinion, it would be a lot of trial and error to find a mousepad of the right thickness for optimum results.

To top off everything is the final B plate!

You then can run your sandwich through the Cuttlebug.  After peeling away all the layers you are left with the following view of the BACK of the front cover (you can click on the photo for a larger view).  I decided to show you this to help demonstrate how the die is working.  As you can see, the die was "smooshed" into the cushion of the cardstock layers & tan polymer mat, therefore leaving an "impression" of the die.

After you flip your card over and remove the die, you can see the beautiful results.  A perfectly embossed card front!  I used to purchase these types of cards to keep on hand for quick & easy creations, and I am just SO excited that now I can make my own!  You could also do the same process with some of the other shapes to create embossed square or circle cards!  How fun is that!

Here is a little card I whipped together utilizing the embossed notecard.  I love how the embossed frame adds the perfect finishing detail!  I made a batch of 25 embossed cards while I had all of my supplies out, and it only took about 10 minutes!

Stay tuned tomorrow for some more tips and tricks with the limitless Nestabilties dies! Just as a little reminder, Papertrey will begin taking pre-orders for these dies on August 1st.  They should be shipping in late August!

Supplies:

ink: Chartreuse, Cote d'Azure and Landscape Palette Ink Pads

stamps: Text Boxed (spiral flowers) and Little Lady (sentiment) from Papertrey

paper: Stamper's Select White Cardstock

other: Adhesive Rhinestones from Paper Studio

ETA: Here are some answers to some questions that were left on this post...

---> Jenny asked...Is the cutting edge sharp? It looks rounded and I am wondering how it cuts cardstock.

The cutting edge (raised strip) is not sharp to the touch.  Die-cuts are more about the pressure built between the die & the machines plates, rather than the actual sharpness of the die.  So for example, in this post I showed you how to emboss by using the tan polymer mat.  If the mat is replaced with the standard die-cutting plate, the force at which the die is pressed against this solid surface easily cuts through just about any material.  That is why you never have to worry about dies becoming dull, becasue they aren't sharp in the first place!  It's all about the pressure!

---> Amy asked... I have the now-discontinued BISK. Will my black embossing pad from the BISK work instead of the tan pad from the Wizard? When the Bug first came out, I had the impression these were interchangeable, but I want to make sure.

The Big Impressions Starter Kit (or BISK) looks to have a mat similar to the Wizard tan polymer mat.  I don't feel 100% comfortable stating that it will work, as I have not tried it myself, because I don't own one.  But it won't hurt to try.  I can tell by looking at the BISK mat that it is similar enough that you wouldn't dammage anything while experimenting.  It would just be a matter of how optimum your embossing results would be.

---> Deb asked...why did you use three pieces of carstock [in your embossing "sandwich]- does it emboss all three at the same time? Can you use just one?

The three pieces of cardstock are just standard weight cardstock (I used 80lb. SU! cardstock, but whatever you have on hand will work just fine).  This cardstock is merely to provide more cushion for the die to have optimum embossing results.  It may sound strange to have to add the cardstock layers, but in order to add enough thickness to the Cuttlebug sandwich and get the amount of pressure needed, the three sheets of cardstock is just the right thickness.  The extra cardstock is left with a slight impression, but nothing you could use for a project.  As I said before, they just act as an additional cushion.

---> Doreen asked...Please photo tutorial with the sizzix! I loved the step by step but I have the old sizzix machime with an adaptor for sizzilits would I need other supplies and will you be selling them?????

I will be unable to do a photo tutorial for the Sizzix machine because I do not own one.  If you refer to the compatibility list I included in the post above, it provided you with specific step by step instructions on how to do the same process with the Sizzix.  Papertrey Ink will not be carrying any of the adaptors needed, but I am sure that these are items that you could pick up from any online Sizzix dealer.

It is not capable of embossing Spellbinders Style Dies™.

How-To
1. Place a Spellbinders Style Die™, die side up on the Revolution tray.

2. Add your cardstock on top of the die.

3. Place your clear plate on top of that as your final Layer.

4. Run through the machine.



---> Big Shot by Ellison Design™
Capabilities
This machine is capable of cutting and embossing any Spellbinders Style Die™.

How-To
To use a Spellbinders Die in the Big Shot:
1. Layer an acrylic mat onto the thick white pad.
2. Place either two Sizzix® Adapters™ or one Spellbinders White Spacer Plate onto the acrylic mat.
3. Place Spellbinders die on the Spacer Plate, blade side up.
4. Place paper over die.
5. Place another acrylic mat over paper. Roll through the Big Shot.
6. To emboss the die, remove the Spacer Plate.
7. Place Tan Emboss Pad over paper, put acrylic mat on top again and roll through Big Shot again.


---> Big Kick™

Capabilities
With the Big Kick, you can both cut and emboss Spellbinders Embossing Dies.

How-To
From the bottom up, to cut:
1. Universal platform (thick white mat from sizzix)
2. Clear acrylic mat
3. Spacer plate from Spellbinders
4. Spellbinders Style Die (cutting side up) that would mean the side with the ridges
5. Paper or cardstock
6. Clear acrylic cutting mat

Second Step- to Emboss (from bottom up) :
1. Universal Platform (thick white mat from sizzix)
2. Clear acrylic mat
3. Spellbinders Style die with paper still inside the die
4. Two pieces of tan Spellbinders Polymer
5. Clear acrylic cutting mat


---> Cuttlebug™

Capabilities
With the Cuttlebug, you can both cut and emboss Spellbinders Embossing Dies. Results are beautiful (see a photo tutorial below)

How-To
Cutting Sandwich - (Stack from bottom up)
1. A plate
2. C plate
3. Spellbinders die face up (rough side up)
4. Paper or cardstock
5. B plate

Run through Cuttlebug machine.

Embossing Spellbinders Dies in the Cuttlebug- (Stack from bottom up)
1. A plate
2. B plate
3. Die face up (with die cut still in die)
4. 3 pieces of cardstock
5. 1 Spellbinders tan polymer mat
6. 2nd B plate

Run through Cuttlebug machine

Rockin' Girl Entrepreneur

Several of you have nominated me as a Rockin' Girl Blogger.  Wow, what an honor!  The title has been given to many of the girl bloggers in the stamping community, so rather than tag them again I thought I would change the title to Rockin' Girl Entrepreneur.

Why you may ask?  At CHA I had a fairly prolific moment while sitting at dinner with fellow stampers.  The stamping industry has seen major changes in just the last 12 months, mostly due to women in the industry.  While as amazing as their product is, Stampin' Up! and other large companies have dominated the stamping world for years.  But due to the inginuity, dedication and good ol' fashioned passion, a small handful of ladies have shaken things up and added some variety to our stamping diets.  How amazing is it that an avarage stay-at-home mom can make a difference in the industry that had previously been controlled by large multi-million dollar companies?  To that fact, I say ROCK ON!

Ellen Hutson & Karen Lockhart:  Ellen is a dear, dear friend of mine and the few times I've met Karen have been so heart-warming.  These partners embrace the power of women in the industry and are so inspirational to me.  No matter the successes they have seen they continue to be down to earth and always focus on the education of a stamper. 

GinaK: Not only is she contributing to the industry with her hand-drawn images, she also donates her efforts and time to helping others with her charity work.  She is dedicated to customer service and being "real".  Her personality is so welcoming and you would be hard-pressed to enter any of the message boards at Splitcoast and not see her friendly banter.

Emily & Stamping Bella: I can sum Em up in one word, "MWAH"!  She has brought a fresh, funky girl power line to the market and invented a whole new language at the same time.  Who knew "bella" could be combined with any of the millions of words in the english laguage and sound so darn cool?!?!?

Kim & My Favorite Things: I haven't had the pleasure to meet her in person, but I have heard about her success and appreciate her passion for her product.  The images carried by her company are so unique and have a trademark look that you can recognize a mile away.  I always look forward to seeing her new releases.

I wish all of these women continued success in their stamping ventures.  Their designs and decication to providing the best is just amazing.  And to think at the same time they get dinner on the table, keep up with housework and do the grocery shopping just like the rest of us!  It is amazing what a WOMAN can do when she puts her mind to it!  Rock on!

Studio questions... answered

What an overwhelming response I have had to my new studio!  My husband has thoroughly enjoyed all of your comments and emails that complimented his craftsmanship!  Perhaps if you keep it up I can talk him into doing a few other projects around the house! *wink*

I have received MANY questions, and rather than respond to everyone individually, I thought it would be best to post the answers here...

--->Ruth asked... I have a quick question for you - are you happy with the Cropper Hopper 12x12 storage cube? Does it pull out easily? I have one of the Target cubes and it is so hard to pull out and push back in.

I bought my Cropper Hopper Cube when they first came out a few years ago and there weren't any alternatives on the market.  Although a bit pricey in comparison to Target's version, it has performed so well and I have no complaints.  The drawer slides in and out easily and never gets stuck, even when I have it full to capacity.

--->Serena asked...OMG! I am soooo in love with your workspace. So many wonderful ideas in there...Quick question though...Is it always so clean? =)

ABSOLUTELY NOT!  Perhaps I ought to have David comment on this question!  LOL!  When I have deadlines to meet and creativity is flowing, I pretty much throw things down wherever they land.  I can destroy my room REALLY fast. BUT, I have to add, that because of the time I dedicated to finding a sorage solution for each of my needs, clean-up is a snap.  And when I am ready and have TIME to tidy after a marathon work session, I can have it spotless in under an hour.  If my space was always this clean, I wouldn't be doing it justice, would I?

--->AmyR asked...Can I come live at your house? PLEASE??????

Yes , the door is always open!  *wink* I am now taking applications for foster stampers who have been abandoned and don't have their own studios.  LOL!

--->Lynn asked...Wow, I'm speechless! This room is like my dream crafting space. I love the lights, too. Where did you get those?

They are from Home Depot.  I got the cheapest track lighting kit they had (I think it was around $40?).  If you stop by there, they sell adaptors that attach to the end of the track lighting, which adds an official standard cord and you can just plug it in! How cool as that!  No need to hire an electrician.  After screwing in the track system to the bottom of the cubbies, we stapled the cord down the corner of the wall behind my computer and you can't even see it!  I checked the Home Depot website and they didn't have either product listed, but they are both pretty standard pieces that your should be able to find easily!

--->Karen asked...How much to borrow your husband? Can you send him to South Carolina?

He will work for chocolate!  *I* on the other hand can't part with him!

--->Kim asked...Your studio is amazing! you must feel so blessed to be able to work in a space like that. Where did you get all the cabinets?

All of the cabinetry is Mill's Pride Closet organization pieces from Home Depot.  They sell bases that you can install and then customize with a variety of drawers, shelves and doors.  The best thing is that it is ALL re-adjustable, so if I change my mind later, I can move things around.

--->Dianna asked...Wonderful job! Could you please share with us the paint color that you used?

I am a big fan of Behr paint from Home Depot.  It has fantastic coverage and almost never takes more than one coat to complete a project.  (Trust me, my husband and I are pros.  We have painted every room in our house at least twice and we've only lived here for 3 1/2 years!  The specific color for this room is actually a custom mix.  It's a pretty soft celery greeen.  This is what my paint can label reads:

COLORANT                  OZ        48       96

D   THALO GREEN         0         14        0

I     BROWN OXIDE        0         16        1

T    MEDIUM YELLOW    1         13        1

--->Lisa asked...OMGoodness.. If I had a room like this.. No one would ever see me. I would go in and never come out. Have you rolled around on the floor yet just for fun?

No, but it sounds like a really good idea!

--->Gayle asked...great room!!! I'm curious as to what brand of paper cutter is sitting underneath the Fiskers cutter?

The Making Memories paper trimmer.  I like to use the Fiskars for regular day to day work.  But when I have a big job to do, like cutting cardstock for swpas or holiday cards, I prefer the Making Memories.  A girl can never have enough paper trimmers in my opinion!

--->Kelly asked...This really is beautiful. I'll be "CASEing" several of your organizing ideas! Has any of the publications done a photospread of your room? They should! Everything looks wonderful. But I have just one question: where is the "Z" box??? :0)

No publication has yet to feature my room, although a little peek may appear in a future issue of Paper Crafts in the Ask the Pros column, if it doesn't get edited out.  The "z" box is directly behind the "y" box in my alphabet storage area.  I didn't want to dedicate another shelf to the system for just one letter!  And besides, I rarely use the "z's".

--->Juanita asked...My, oh my, be still my heart!!! What an awesome room!!! WHERE DID YOU FIND THOSE TURQUOISE BASKETS, they are to die for??

The turquoise baskets were from Hobby Lobby and I actually got them for 50% off.  Full price was something like $15 for the largest baskets, $8 for the medium and $5 for the small.  They also came in pink & orange!

--->Linda asked...I've got a question about your ribbon spooling, and I'm hoping you won't mind helping me out...  you say you have them on clothespins... and I can see they're long with a ball type thing at the top... where did you buy those clothespins???

Dollar Tree is the only place I could find them, in the laundry section.  I think there were 20 or 40 in a bag for, obviously, a dollar.  I go in there every couple months and buy them out and have a stock pile in my attic.  I don't ever want to run out and not be able to find them!  Especially since my ribbon collection continues to expand!

--->Laura asked...I was wondering if you could share a little more info. on the custom cd case that your husband built. My husband said he will make one for me if I get a little more info. for him. I specifically need to know where he got the tracking from? Did it come off of another cd case, or is there a source for it???

David purchase them from a large carpentry accessory company called Rockler.  The sell 6 ft. CD Storage Strips that are made out of light-weight plastic and attached to anything (and they are only $10 each).  The custom case he built me uses 4 of these strips, each cut in half, giving me 8 pieces (2 pieces for each section).  When adhering the strips to either side of the shelf, be sure to line them up correctly so your CD's slide in straight.

--->Melissa asked...I was just looking at your blog, admiring your craft room, & saw that you have a 12x12 Cropper Hopper file drawer. I was just wondering, where in the world would I find the 12x12 file folders. The only kind I ever see are the standard letter or legal sized folders. Are they Cropper Hopper too???

Yes, Cropper Hopper sells 12x12 folders for their units.

--->Maria asked...All I can say is has Martha seen this room?

No, she hasn't.  Do you have her number? *wink*

I think that about answers everything!  If you have any additional questions, please feel free to ask.  I will try to get a post up tomorrow summing up my CHA experience.  What a blast I had!  Untill then...happy stamping!

ETA:  I have received more questions, so I thought I would add them onto the end of this post!

--->Lisa asked...What do you do with your scraps of cardstock. And is there a certain size where you say this is too small to keep? I feel like I’m overflowing in scraps and I don’t know what to do with them.

 

I used to keep ALL of my scraps, but I ended up wiith so many that it was difficult to find what I needed, therefore I never used them and kept grabbing full sheets, just because it was easier.  Now, I only keep scraps if they are half a sheet or larger and they are filed with their full sheet counterparts.  I may throw away a lot of small scraps, but I figure that if it is less than half a sheet, it only has a value of a few cents and it is worth it to me to keep my organization intact.  It is very important to me to always "fit" into my space and not allow it to get out of hand.  I don't know about you, but I always work better when everything is neat & tidy!

--->Misti asked (along with several others!)...Would it be possible to tell me all 28 of your box labels?  I'm just curious how you split things up!

ROLLERS: all of my Stampin' Up! wheels & ink cartridges, brayers & crimper

MEMORABILIA: little personal keepsakes are stored here until they make it into a scrapbook.

INSPIRATION: pages torn from magazines, etc. that inspire me.

ADHESIVES: Any & all adhesives including tabs, liquids & Mod Podge.

CHIPBOARD: All of my chipboard shapes, divided into baggies by brand.  If they come on a sheet, I punch them out to make them easier to store.

RIBBON: where I put ribbon if I don't time to get it onto clothespins right away.

PASTELS & PENCILS: chalks and watercolor pencils

METAL: metal sheets, metal alphabet punches, etc.

FLOSS & STRING: embroidery floss and crochet thread, jute twine

EMBOSSING: embossing powders, embossing inks, powder trays, embossing buddy, dry embossing templates.

SPARKLE: glitter, stickles, peral-ex powders

ACRYLIC PAINT: well, just that, acrylic paint!

POLYSHRINK: polyshink sheets, templates

TAPES: scotch tape, metal tapes, fabric binding tapes, sticky strip, packing tape

INK PADS: loose ink pads

FRAMES & CORNERS: anything that is a frame or corner, photo corner stickers, chipboard frames, acrylic frames

FOAM STAMPS: all of my foam stamps organized by set in baggies.

STAMPS: unconventional stamps; 7gypsies self-inking stamps, Making Memories magnetic stamps, date stamps

MEMORY DOCK: extra filler pages for my Memory Dock organizer/date book.

SPRAYS: spray paint, spray adhesives, spray varnish

LETTER GROUPS: sheets of adhesive chipboard letters

FILL-INS: Any product that provides lines to "fill-in".  Journaling cards, stamps, etc...

NUMBERS: any & all numbers (chipboard, metal charms, stamps, etc.) divided into baggies.

BEADS: any and all beads and beading tools

DISTRESSING: sponges, walnut inks, sanding supplies

CLOTHESPINS: extra clothespins to use for my ribbon spooling

BLANK: the content of this change, depending on what my needs are at the time.

--->Starr asked...How do you wrap the end of the ribbon on the spool?  Do you use tape?  Your spools look so neat and nothing is hanging off.  I tried tucking the end of the ribbon in the slit of the clothes pin, but it just falls out...help!

I insert the end of the ribbon in the slit and then hold it in place until I have tightly wound the ribbon around the clothespin a few times.  After I have completed winding all of the ribbon, I fasten the end down with a glasshead pin. 

The NEW Studio

My studio has been a work in progress for many months.  My poor husband kept getting new tasks as I "moved in" and needed improved storage solutions.  I have purged, organized & cleaned and finally say that this project is complete!  We re-modeled a tiny 9x10 bedroom in our home to suit my needs.  Let me give you the grand tour!

This is the view as you walk in the door from our hallway.  Notice the large scissors hanging on my door!  I bought them at Hobby Lobby 50% off a few months ago!  I loved the pair that Jeanette had from Pottery Barn, but they no loger carried them.  When I say these at HL, it was all I could do to contain myself! 

David designed and build my workspace fo me.  It has real countertop, which has held up so well and I am really happy with it.  It came with a backsplash attached and he had the brilliant idea to cut it off and use it as a little shelf just above the workspace.  It is cuh a nice detail.  All of the "little things" an artist needs at their fingertips can set perfectly on the shelf and not clutter my actual work surface.  My 22" flat screen monitor (courtesy of Papertrey Ink *wink*) is wall mounted so it doesn't sit on my work surface either. 

I hung all of my Paper Crafts magazine covers on the wall is simple black frames.  It is rewarding to look at the wall everyday, it serves as a reminder of my accomplishments.

To the left of my workspace there are two slide-out shelves.  The top one holds my printer/scanner & my heat gun (since it is close to the outlet).  The second shelf has my fax machine & paper trimmers.

To the right of my workspace I keep all of my embellishments.  They are in plastic compartmentalized boxes ($1.95 ea. from Wal-mart) by color.  It is amazing how much stuff these things can hold once you start taking emellishments out of their packaging!  Just above the embellishments is a little shelf that has a tray where I like to toss my scraps.  There is also a platic box that holds all of my Palette Ink pads.

Above that is my "necessity drawer".  It contains all of the supplies that I use everytime I sit down to craft.   A variety of adhesives, stamp clener & pad, black ink pads, distress ink pads, paper-piercing pad & template, postage stamps, etc... 

Sitting on my workspace, above the necessity drawer, is a 12x12 Cropper Hopper drawer.  It holds all of my patterned paper.  I have orgainzed it all by color.  I have five folders for each color. The green section for example has folders labeled Green, Green Dots, Green Stripes, Green Floral, Green Plaid.  This has been such a great system for me and it really allows me to find what I need, fast.

All of my SU! ink pads sit on top of my Cropper Hopper drawer.  I also have a turquoise bowl sitting beside it which holds all of my acrylic blocks.  I keep all of my tools in a Tool-Turn-About from Pampered Chef.

Above my workspace is a series of cubbies holding white photo boxes.  The cubbies were really inexpensive from Target, David just wall-mounted them.  It consists of 2 six-cubby units and 1 two-cubby unit.  If fit the space perfectly.  The white photo boxes are from Hobby Lobby.  There are 28 of them and they contain EVERYTHING!  They are all labeled and easy to access.  There is one for embossing and it conatins all of my embossing powders, trays, inks, etc.  There is labeled "sparkle" which houses glitter, stickles, perfect pearls, etc.  I also have boxes for acrylic paint, loose ink pads, pastels & pencils, inspiration, tapes, distressing, etc.  These have been essential to making the most of my space.  David mounted track lighting to the underside of the cubbies.  They provide plenty of light when I am putting in late nights.

Right beside my workspace is a low set of cabinets & drawers under the window.  This is Hannah's space.  Turning to the right from my workspace, on the next wall, is what used to be the closet.  David removed the doors and did a complete set of built-ins. The little stool on the right-hand side is what Hannah pulls up to sit on when she is working.  I also use it to help reach top shelves.

The counter space is what I call my "tool table".  It holds my Cuttlebug, Revolution, QK Squeeze and MM Tag Maker.  They are easy to access and use right there without having to clutter my workspace.  The shelving surrounding the tool table holds all of my wood-mounted stamps.

The cabinets below the tool table hold all of my magazines and books.  I have 6 years worth of back issues of Martha Stewart Living and I refer to them often!  I have a basket on the top shelf of the left-hand cabinet that holds all of my envelopes and shipping supplies.

Turning to the right from the tool table is my main storage wall.  It holds all of my cardstock in Crpper Hopper organizers. 

On the top shelf I have turquoise baskets that hold office supplies, alphabet sets and sticker embellishments.  Here is a peak inside my alphabet set basket.  I keep all of my rub-ons and sticker sheets in here.  I put them in file style, so I can literally flip through and find what a need.      

My ribbon is in candy jars (Wal-mart for about $5 each).  I wrap all of my ribbon on clothespins and have one jar for each color.  It has been such a solution for my ever-growing collection.

The left bottom cabinet holds all of my alterables.  It is just a LITTLE crowded in there.  I can't seem to stop buying this stuff!!!

In the center bottom are three shelves.  Each holds a tray basket (Target $12 each).  There is one for each of my children and labeled as such.  These are ehere I stick any artwork or keepsakes before I file them into their large storage boxes in the attic.

Right above the baskets are 4 drawers.  They hold all of my punches and cutting tools.  This is a peek at the inside of the top drawer.

The right bottom cabinet holds all of my scrpabook albums.  Most are still waiting to be filled!  One day, one day!

The center middle of my shelving system holds all of my alphabet boxes (freezer containers from Wal-mart).  I have filed all of my chipboard letters, alphabet stamps, letter charms, etc... into these boxes.  If it has a letter on it, then it gets filed here!  It has been such a great resource to have and I find myself using things I normally would have forgotten about.

Beside my large shelving unit, to the right, is my custom built CD rack!  David completely invented it himself and I am so thrilled with it.  It has the capacity to hold 200 cases!

The top half holds all of my acrylic stamp sets (75 and counting!).  David installed adjustable shelving in the middle that holds baskets with ink spots, reference books, etc.  IT packs a lot of storage into a little space tht would normally have been neglected behind the door!

My scallop punches hang on a rack on the back of my door.  The base of the rack was made out of scrap wood, ahile the punches are held on inexpensive curtain rods.  I will end this post by pointing out the sign above my door, which sums up everything nicely.  "Surround yourself with the things you love".

Honorable Mention

Our newest release, Borders & Corners, has entered the stamping world with a bang!  Four of the five new sets we released sold out in the first day because of your overwhelming response!  Not to fear though!  We will have more in stock by the end of July.  Backorders will be shipped first, so if you want to be added to the list, backordering is the way to go.

With a new release comes a NEW Guest Star Stamper!  I am proud to announce this month's winner is Sharon Harnist!  She really used the reverse images from Text Boxed in a new & fresh way that really caught my eye.  You can see her beautiful entry here.

And of course, there are always so mnay entries, I have to share a few of my other favorites as well!

Erika Hall made this breathtaking holiday card!  I love how simple it is, love the colors, love the horizontal orientation.  Love everything!!!

Julia Stainton had several entries that were just stunning.  This was my favorite of her projects using Text Boxed.  The soft look of the vellum paired with the textural experience of the dry embossing is such an appealing combination.  Her colors compliment everything as well.  Can you say CASE?!?!?

I loved this entry from Karen Haman.  The colors are so fresh for a winter card.  I loved how she put a different spin on the images, making them into snowflakes.  The overall design had a beautiful execution.

This project by Lauren Meader was hands down my favorite featuring the spiral flower.  I adore how she colored all of the spaces within the flower using a variety of colors.  The piercing was such a great finishing detail as well.

Julie Campbell made this fun project by using the reverse image as a beach towel with fun flock.  I thought the sandpaper was a clever touch as well!