{capture the moment}

Christmas Inspirations

We put our tree up a few days ago.  It is amazing how just adding one holiday decor item, such as the classic Christmas tree, can totally put you in the holiday spirit!  And also inspire you to create!

As I was looking at my tree this morning, I closely examined a few new additions.  One of which was this gorgeous beaded beauty that I purchased recently.  It helped to bring focus to our chosen color scheme these year; green, white & silver!  I thought it would be fun to create a Christmas card inspired by this special ornament.

This card is a quick & simple Christmas greeting (gotta love simple during all the hustle & bustle of the holidays!).  I used my faithful silver detailed embossing powder from SU! along with a silver tag rim to help tie in the shine factor.  I have found when embossing with silver powder, the results are much better if used in conjunction with the Encore Metallic Silver ink pad from Tsukineko rather than an ordinary embossing pad.  Any area that does not hold the powder thoroughly blends in because of the silver ink showing through!  I had fun combining images from Borders & Corners Circle to create some fun background paper!!!  Dig out yours and experiment!  You can achieve a look that is retro, or more structured and modern!

The sentiment is from Believe.  I really like the fonts used in this set.  A kind of classic elegance is what they emulate, which I think is a style we all try to communicate with our holiday cards!  I added a few bits of white velvet ribbon as a finishing touch.

What inspires YOU today?  It could be an ornament like me, or perhaps an ad you saw in a magazine today, or maybe even the shirt you chose to wear.  Reign in that inspiration and create something beautiful, just for the heck of it!  I would love to see what you come up with! 

Food for Thought...

I have stepped away for a few weeks to focus on my family, along with taking the opportunity to analyze some thoughts and feelings I have been forced to deal with recently.  I don't feel as though I can "continue with your regularly scheduled blog posts" without putting a voice to these feelings.  So here it goes...

I have been on all sides of the stamping world.  I remember a time not to long ago, when I was on a very limited budget of $20 per month for supplies.  I also know what it is like to have a fairly open-ended budget.  I have had the experience of being involved in direct sales, as I was an SU! demo for a few years.  I am now involved with the manufacturing & design of my own products.  So I feel that it is accurate to say that I have experienced it all first hand.

With that being said, I want to provide you with some food for thought. 

You are surely looking for innovation when it comes to your purchases, no matter which of the aforementioned categories you may find yourself in. That's one of the aspects of this craft that is so exciting.  All of the new products that are constantly introduced, providing you with ongoing possibilities.  These innovations are what keep everything fresh and exciting. 

Where would this industry be without a core group of "thinkers" who work hard to continually bring you something new? 

I would like to think that I could include myself as part of this group, along with a few close friends of mine who are affiliated with their own companies. 

I know in my particular case, many hours of thought & contemplation go into each set that Papertrey produces.  Many characteristics of the images we create are designed with the stamper in mind, making them both user-friendly & trendy at the same time.  There are many sets that we currently contain in our collection that I spent as much as 80-90 hours designing, getting everything just perfect and being sure that they were as versatile as possible.  I can honestly say that my heart & soul are poured into each and every thing I do. 

So back to the question at hand... Where would this industry be without a core group of "thinkers" who work hard to continually bring you something new?

What is your answer?  And is your answer reflected in how you choose to spend your crafting dollars? 

Other companies that take a concept and make it their own virtually get a "free ride".   The "thinking" was already done by someone else, so it is easy for them to reproduce the idea within their company and gain profits without any true contributions to the industry as a whole.

It is very easy as a consumer to not give a second thought to this philosophy.  We want what we want at the lowest price possible. 

But in the end, what type of company do you want to maintain longevity?  The one that puts the time into innovating new concepts continually or the company that likes to take advantage of a free ride?

I know that this subject may seem controversial to some, and I am prepared for that.  But I think this issue needs to have some attention.  I look forward to sharing some stamping related posts within the next few days, but today I really needed o share my thoughts & feelings on this particular subject.  Thank-you to all for your support!!!

 

Honorable Mention

This month's Guest Star Stamper Contest was especially difficult to judge.  I got over 450 submissions for Piece of Cake and another 400 for Snowflake Serenade!  I ended up sorting the submissions DAILY, just so I could keep up!

If you haven't seen the winning projects from this month, then you MUST stop by the Ink Pad to take a peek!

Lauren Meader did the most amazing project with Piece of Cake.  It got a verbal "oohhhhh" from me while I was sorting through all of the competition!  I think there are a couple reasons that I loved it so much.  The colors are fantastic.  Reminds me of a boutique in Paris.  And most of all, I loved how well her background tied in with the focal point image.  It is such a fantastic use of Beautiful Blooms as a companion set.  I love the details of the liquid pearl applied to the centers of each flower on the cake.  I love the way she tied a bow with the satin ribbon rather then just knotting it.  I just identify with it...with all of it.  If you haven't seen Lauren's work before, I highly recommend stopping by her blog.  Not only is she super-talented, she also has a big heart.

Next up is Jillian Winters.  Her Snowflake Serenade project had so many unique attributes compared to others that submitted to the same category.  Her use of the acetate was brilliant.  The snowflakes seem to be falling gently from the sky.  Matting the focal point so it appears to be "floating" really accentuates the snow as well.  Her color choices were perfect for the theme of the project too!  (Brrrrrrr!!!)  The way she incorporated the Nestabilities was really clever as well.  The addition of the scallops really adds a special touch.  Jillian's taste is classic with a little trendiness thrown in for good measure.  I assure you, if you take a peek at her work on her blog, you will find inspiration surrounds you!

As I do every month, there are always several projects that are too fabulous to NOT mention.  Here are the official Honorable Mentions from this month's contest!

Barb Schram made this beautiful creation with Piece of Cake.  She stamped the cake and "glitterfied" it.  Then added a layer of acetate over it.  She was then able to add the flower accents without any worries about the ink interfering with the texture of the glitter mixing.  To attach the acetate without any visible adhesive, she used brads and our velvet flowers.  I love how the velvet flowers fit right in and add so much detail to the project.  Great job, Barb!

Lexi Daly said that she couldn't wait to "set the table" when she discovered that a scalloped oval punch creates a perfect plate for the slice of cake!  I love how she used Faux Ribbon to add the details across the bottom of the card and how they integrate with the sentiment.  SOOOOO cute!!!

Carolyn King had the most ADORABLE idea!  She created a little tag for this gift bag by stamping the slice of cake so the edge was aligned with the fold in a plain white card.  She then trimmed around the cake, creating a super-cute gift card!  I just love the way that turned out!  She really went the extra mile with the way she embellished the bag as well!

Becky Oehlers went above and beyond with this ensemble she created.  She went as far as having an actual cake made to coordinate with the stamp set!  She created a cake band along with matching placecards & napkins!  This is one party I would have liked to attend!  The napkins are so cute, I don't think I would have had the heart to use them!

Julie Campbell made this really fun & bright version of a cake card.  I thought it was SO kid-friendly, especially as something you could mass-produce and have on hand for all those parties your kids are invited to!  I loved the color scheme.  It is so cheerful and happy, which is what we ALL want to communicate with a birthday card!

Jen Del Muro did a fun alteration of one of our clear card boxes.  I loved the unique color scheme for this wintery project.   I also thought that it was a wonderful way to package up all those holiday goodies that everyone makes this time of year.  So clever, Jen!!!!

Jen also made these cards.  I loved how well the snowflake images coordinated with the Cuttlebug embossing folder.  Plus, the projects were nice & clean.....and simple.  I think anyone could mass-produce these gorgeous designs in no time flat for their own cards this year.  Such an inspiration! 

Melanie Muenchinger created the most stunning background paper with the words from Snowflake Serenade.  I just loved the look of this and thought it was so creative.  (I'm quite partial to green as well!) The small rhinestone detail on the snowflake tag is a nice touch as well!

So, do you want to have YOUR chance to be the next Guest Star Stamper?  We are now accepting entries for the following categories:

Spiral Bouquet

Monogrammed Projects (using Trajan or Ambassador)

All of the details of the contest can be seen here.  I look forward to seeing your submissions!!!

Q&A

--->What paper did you use for the monogrammed stationery set?

Many of you thought perhaps that this was our paper.  I'm afraid I can't take the credit though!  It is Harvest Flower from the Harvest Row Collection by Heidi Grace for Fiskars.

---> When will Snowflake Serenade be back in stock?

We will be making Snowflake Serenade available to purchase tonight along with the new releases to give everyone a fair shot at the inventory we now have.

--->When will you be carrying the Palette reinkers &  spots?

They did not arrive in time for this release.  We are expecting them in about a week or so.

--->When will you have the Nestabilities back in stock?

We have had a large order in with Spellbinders for a few weeks now and we were just waiting for them to get their inventory back in stock.  They should arrive in our warehouse in about a week and a half.

--->What exactly is contained in the new Borders & Corners set?  Does it have the exact same images that can be found in the original versions? 

The Borders & Corners Monogram Edition includes all of the following...

-3 circles that coordinate with the extra jumbo circle scalloped punch.  All three borders are replicas of those found in our original Border's & Corners Circle set.

-3 squares that coordinate with the super jumbo square scalloped punch.  Two of the borders are replicas of those found in our original Borders & corners Square set.  One of the borders is the same design, but a new size.

-The set also includes 10 words/phrases that you an use to help integrate the monograms into your projects.

If you have been waiting to try Borders & Corners, but didn't know what to start with, this is the opportunity you have been waiting for!  This set will retail for $15.  The borders chosen for this set specifically coordinate with the two monogram alphabets that we are releasing as well.

--->Will you be selling an add-on set that features JUST the words & new size square border, for those of us that already own the original Borders & Corners?

Yes, but not in conjunction with this release.  We are hoping to have these mini sets available for our next release in December.

--->How many Plain Jane Cigar Boxes do you have in stock?

Not enough!  When we ordered these a few weeks ago from Cosmo Cricket, we cleaned them out of their entire stock.  We are currently working with them to get more, and if all goes well it will still be about 8-10 weeks before we are able to get additional stock.  SOOOO, what we have available for the release tonight is all we will have in preparation for the holidays around the corner.  Perhaps you can think of these as Limited Edition! 

--->When & where is the release party tonight?

Our official release party will be taking place at our Splitcoastampers Member Company forum.  The festivities begin at 10pm EST.  You can read THIS post about the exciting contest we will be holding!

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Today is the day!  Tonight at 12am EST, all of the stamp sets that I have been dangling in front of you will be available for purchase!  And don't forget our release party at 10pm EST on our SCS forum.  It is going to be a WILD night with an amazing contest too!  Be sure to stop by and say hi!

So, are you ready for the final sneak peek?  It is the grand finale, for sure!  So pull up your comfy chair and your favorite beverage (whether it be hot or cold) and settle in for a good read!

I have saved the best for last!  Let me introduce you to Plain Jane.  Plain Jane Cigar Box that is, from Cosmo Cricket, retailing for $6!  You will love the possibilities that this box holds inside & out.  Constructed of sturdy 1/8-inch chipboard, this box can be easily covered with your favorite designer papers or cardstock.  If altering isn't your thing, painting the box or stamping directly on it's surface is also an option.  The unique die-cut window in the lid really allows this box to stand-out in a crowd.  It is also perfect for containing our exclusive Stationery Kit.

The Papertrey Stationery Kit contains everything you need to create a fabulous set of personalized stationery!  Retails for $8:

(30) 5.5 x 8.5 quality stationery sheets

(15) elegant square flap envelopes

(2) 5.5 x 8.5 white adhesive paper sheets

(1) 2.5 oz. round clear top tin

The stationery sheets are made from high-quality paper, similar to that found is fine stationery boutiques.  It is easy to customize them by adding small images or monogramming to the top of each sheet.  This paper takes ink beautifully!  I decided to do monograms on my set.  To make it easy to stamp the sheets with perfection each time, I created myself a template.  I cut a piece of cardstock 5.5 x 1 inch.  I drew gridlines through both centers and then punched a 1-3/8 inch circle from the exact center.

I was then able to lay the template over the top of my stationery sheet and stamp through the opening. 

It was very easy to place the template on each sheet as I went through stamping them all.  I decided to carry over my patterned paper into the sheets by adding a 3/4-inch strip at the bottom.  If you stuck to those dimensions you could add this detail to every one of the 30 stationery sheets with one 12x12 patterned sheet of patterned paper.

The envelopes feature an elegant square flap that shows you have chosen nothing but the best.  (It is industry standard to include twice as many stationery sheets as envelopes, to allow for two-page letters and errors by the writer.)  I decide to customize the envelopes too.  I cut pieces of the paper about the size of the flap.

I then adhered the patterned paper strips on and trimmed the edges from the back.  It allowed me to see a little better as to what I was doing.

Here is a finished envelope!  Super easy with stunning results! 

While I was playing around I came up  with the cutest idea EVER.  I lined the tin that is included with this kit, using the same patterned paper that I used throughout.  All I did was cut a strip of paper to adhere to the inside side and I cut a 2.75-inch circle to adhere to the inside bottom.  Think of how many ways you can use that concept.  I can hardly wait to use it in further applications!

The adhesive paper sheets are perfect for creating your own envelope seals.  Stamp your chosen monogram or image onto the label paper.  Then punch them out with a coordinating scalloped punch.  The small tin, described above, will contain the seals you create with style!  The recipient will be able to just peel the backing from each label and adhere them in place on their envelopes!

Now that you have all this beautiful stuff, you need a place to gather all of it together.  Here's where Plain Jane comes back into play!  First cut a piece of patterned paper 6-1/8 x 7 inches.  Temporarily adhere in place so that there is some extra overhang over the back. 

Flip the box over so that the patterned paper is face down on your table top.  Trace the opening of the lid with pencil.

Next, you want remove the paper from the lid and cut along the pencil lines with a craft knife.

Finally, adhere the paper back in place on lid, applying extra adhesive on the very back so that you are able to fold the overhang over and down the back of the box.  Use sanding tools in a downward motion around the inside edge of the window to form fit the paper to the box.

For the sides, cut four 6 x 1-5/8 inch strips of cardstock or paper.  Adhere them in the center of each side.  They will not go all the way to the corner, we will be covering those in the next step.  You will need to sand the cardstock on the front slightly since it is a tad lower then the remaining sides, due to the gap allowed for the closing of the lid.

Cut pieces of binding tape to cover all four corners and reinforce the hinge at the back of the lid.  (Mine is from Heidi Swapp).

As the finishing touch, I adhered clear transparency to the back of the opening in the lid and attached a scalloped monogram which appears to "float" in the window.

Here is a little peek of one of the many ways you could arrange the inside of your box with all the contents.  I just love this project because there are SO many different looks and styles you could achieve with such a customizable basis, such as the cigar box & Stationery Kit.  I am really excited to see what you come up with to!

I look forward to seeing many of you tonight at the release party!  Thanks for stopping by!

Supply list to come later today...

YOU could be the next Papertrey Apprentice!

Is there a certain themed stamp set that you have always dreamed of?  Done just right?

Or is there something you have been DYING to see from Papertrey that has not yet been added to our collection?

Maybe there is a particular sentiment that you have been in search of for years?

Now's your chance to have your stamping wish become a reality!

Announcing the search for the next Papertrey Apprentice!  Anyone can participate!  And everyone has a chance to win!

THE PRIZE:

-The winner will get to assist me in designing a stamp set which will be released during our February 15th, 2008 debut.  We will have a concept meeting via phone or email, to discuss what types of things you would like included in the set, the theme of the images, or even any fonts you would like to see used.

-I will then design the set according to your specifications.  You will be the FIRST to see the rough drafts & final copies!  You will be involved in every step of the process!

-Your name will be included in the promotion & packaging of the stamp set!

-You will receive the first copy of the set, hot off the presses, before anyone else!

Sound like something you're interested in?  Read on to see how you can win...

THE CONTEST:

-Become familiar with all things Papertrey, including stamp set specifics and personal stuff about the three of us that has been mentioned here on the blog and our forums.

-Attend our official Release Party in our Splitcoaststampers Member Company Forum, Wednesday night @ 10pm EST.

-FIVE questions will be asked in the forum.  Each question will have it's own individual thread.  DO NOT post anything within these threads other then answers to the questions!

-The first question will be posted at approximately 10:15pm and the remaining questions in 15 minute intervals after that. 

-The first FIVE correct answers within each thread will be awarded points.  First correct answer= 5 pts, Second correct answer= 4 pts, Third correct answer=3 pts, Fourth correct answer=2 pts and Fifth correct answer= 1 pt.  This point system will be used for each individual thread.

-The person to accumulate the most points will win the title of Papertrey Apprentice!  In case of a tie in points, the person with a question answered earliest that evening will be proclaimed the winner.

So, will YOU be the first Papertrey Apprentice?

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I am very excited to share today's project with you.  I am an avid "giver", if there is such a thing.  I just love putting special gifts together for people.  I love the opportunity to make someone smile and brighten their day.  I love to make the presentation as special as the gift.  I think that it makes everything so much more personal.

And after all, what is more personal then monogramming???  I decided to compile a wonderful baby gift ensemble that you can turn to again and again.  My friend Cindy chatted with me the other day about this fabulous scrapbook concept she had done for a baby shower gift.  And I just loved it instantly.  In fact, I wish someone had made one for me with each of my babies!

First, to make the actual album.  I stamped the monogram & border.  I found that the circle borders that are compiled in the new set all fit in the circle metal tag rims.  (For a tutorial on how to use these rims along with a few project ideas, see the post I did HERE)  I just LOVE the way that they add a professional and finished look to my projects.  I then simply tied my chosen ribbon around the album cover, and attached the tag with a small jump ring.

Now for the album pages.  Here is the introduction page that will also communicate to you the concept of this gift.  It reads...

"Here is a special scrapbook to preserve memories of your little one's first year.  Leave the current month's calendar on the clipboard in a convenient place so it is easy to jot down important milestones & events.  Once the month has passed, you can slide the calendar page into the scrapbook.  Then on the opposing page you can create a collage of photos involving the moments mentioned during the month.  When the year is complete, you will have documented all those special firsts!  May you enjoy all the blessings a baby brings!"

This is an example of one of the calendar pages along with the altered clipboard I created.  I used the monogram letters to spell out the month.  And a few images from Spiral Bouquet were layered down in the corner.

Here is the calendar page along with the "blank" page that opposes it.  Notice that the calendar page has no numbers.  This is so the new parents can use them no matter when the baby ends up arriving.  The "blank" pages to be used for photos, feature the numbers 1-12, one for each month of age.  The numbers were created with stamps that are included with one of the monogram alphabet sets!  Fun, isn't it!

I decided that little monogrammed onesies would be too cute to pass up as well!  First, I inserted a piece of cardstock inside the shirt.  This prevents the ink from seeping through to the back AND it provides a sturdier stamping surface.

I used Belle Rose Palette Ink, which is permanent, so that the shirts can be washed over and over again, with no fading (This is a proven fact, because I sat on an open Reflection Blue Palette ink pad with my favorite pj pants on one morning, and I have tried EVERYTHING to get it out with no success!  We'll just use the permanent characteristic of this ink to our ADVANTAGE from now on, shall we!?!?!?)

Here is the finished shirt.  The little "Baby Girl" stamps are from the new Borders & Corners set. Isn't it adorable!!!  (Many of you have asked if the words in this set will be sold separately for those of you that already have the original Borders & Corners.  We have taken steps to make them available, but they will not be completed until our release next month.)

Last but not least, it's all about the packaging, right!  I put the album, clipboard, onesies and a card (you can see THIS POST from last month for more details on the card)  into a cute little basket from Wal-Mart.  You could also add scrapbook adhesive, a good-quality archival ink pen for writing on the calendar or even gift certificates for photo developing or printing.  Any new mother would surely be thrilled with such a gift!

So, you're thinking that you just might want to make some of these yourself?  I've got a little surprise for you!  For your stamping pleasure, I have created both the calendar page and the introduction I used in a pdf document.  And I am providing it FREE for you to download and use in your own version of this project!  Enjoy!!!

EDITED TO ADD: There was a small spelling error in the content of the download (what can I say, spelling isn't my strong suit?!?!?)  A corrected version has been posted below:

Download papertrey_first_year_baby_album_download.pdf

I will have some BIG news later on tonight about a special contest we will be holding at our release party tomorrow night!  I will have all the details later, so be sure to check back!!!

SUPPLIES:

Ink- Belle Rose Palette ink, old olive classic ink SU!

Stamps- Papertrey Ink

Paper- Rose Red cardstock SU!, green from Bazzill, white Stamper's Select from Papertrey

Other- Ribbon from American Crafts, 6x6 linen album from SU!, mini chipboard clipboard from Pinecone Press, Mainstays basket from Wal-Mart, silver brads from Creative Impressions, scalloped scissors from SU!

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So here we are!  Only a few more days until the big reveal at Papertrey Ink!  Which means we are also getting closer to my FAVORITE holiday, Thanksgiving!  I thought I would share this little project that I have created to help my family celebrate their blessings while having a special keepsake to preserve a few memories at the same time.

I cut two pieces of chipboard that measure 3.75 x 6 inches.  I set one aside (to use later as the back cover) and kept one out to be used as the front cover of my mini book.  I stamped on the cover with Versamark ink and a few images from Spiral Bouquet.  I then heat embossed the images with clear embossing powder.

I painted over the embossed images using Ranger Paint Dabbers (Butterscotch & Terra Cotta). I used a horizontal streaking motion with both colors to acheive depth and a true representation of autumnal colors!  I then set it aside to allow it to dry thoroughly.

I then used a moist paper towel to "buff" away the paint on the embossed images.  You want to use small circular motions directly ontop of th embossed portions only.  The true color of the chipboard now shows through the paint, giving the project a real rustic feel.  (This is a fun little resist technique that I learned from Tim Holtz himself when I attended CKU this summer!)

I added a small tag stamped with "Gratitude", which is also from the NEW Spiral Bouquet stamp set.  (Don't you just LOVE that font!  It is one of my favorites!)  A little metal embellishment hightlights the tag, allowing the resist pattern to remain the star of the show!

I decided to make the interior pages of the book from our medium glassine bags.  I chose to use eight bags, therefore creating eight pages.

I trimmed the open edge from each of eight bags and punched a slot using the Making Memories punch.  Regular paper punches will not work with the glassine bags (just ask me how I know!!!  RE: Broken 3/4-inch circle punch!  Who would have thought a glassine bag could fight back!))

I then used my brand-new Bind-It-All (with a 1/2-inch coil) to bind my book together.  I ended up with a little extra notch at the top because I did not center the book correctly, (a.k.a jumped right in and did NOT read the directions!) but at this point, I thought it added "character".  (Right?!?!?)

I cut tags to slide into each of the bags ( 3-5/8 x 5-1/2 inches).  I stamped them with the same flowers that were used on the cover of the book and did some extensive sponging with Distress Ink.  My goal with this little book is to have each guest at our Thanksgiving table write down what they are thankful for on their own tag.  The book will be such a great reminder the rest of the year, and be a keepsake even after that, especially for the kids since they grow so fast.  I'm sure their answers will be entertaining, to say the least!

Here is what the tag looks like when inserted into the bags that are bound into the book.  I love the sofft translucentcy of them.

And this is a shot of the final book.  I added a variety of ribbons to all the tags which helped to infuse some additional autumn colors along with texture.

Now, I just need to improve my expertise with my Bind-It-All and I will be able to make small gifts like this for everyone!  I love making things that can be appreciate both now and in the future.  It is like the gift that keeps on giving!  What a great hostess gift this would make if you are traveling this year for the holiday!

SUPPLIES-

Ink: Pumpkin Pie & Chocolate Chip from SU!, Brushed Corduroy Distress Ink from Ranger, Versamark

Stamps: Papertrey Ink

Paper: Confetti White from SU!

Other: Recycled chipboard (cut down to size), Butterscotch & Terra Cotta Paint Dabbers from Ranger, Crystal Clear Embossing Powder from SU!, Medium Glassine Bags from Papertrey, Bind-It-All & 1/2-inch wire coil, a variety of ribbons. Metal flower from Nunn Designs, rust glasshead brad from Creative Cafe.

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Many of you guessed correctly about the stamp sets that were used in yesterday's project!  Here are the details of our newest sets being released on November 15th...

-A new version of Borders & Corners that includes 3 circles that coordinate with the extra jumbo circle scalloped punch 3 squares that coordinate with the super jumbo square scalloped punch.  (Five of the borders are already included in our existing sets, one is brand new.) If you have been waiting to try Borders & Corners, but didn't know what to start with, this is the opportunity you have been waiting for!  They are specially sized for MONOGRAMS!  The set also included many words that you an use to integrate the monograms into your projects, like the "Bridal Shower" detail in yesterday's project.

-TWO monogram alphabet sets, sized to fit in the new Borders & Corners collection described above.   Both sets are uppercase only and $15 each.

-And of course, last but not least, the Spiral Bouquet set that we originally intended to release last month.

One of the fun things about stamping is having the ability to integrate it with other crafts or hobbies that are of interest to you.  I have dabbled a little in beading and enjoy it immensely.  I thought that it would be fun to combine this with our new monogram stamp sets!

First, I knew I wanted to create a monogram charm.  I pulled out one of my old favorites, polyshrink.  The translucent is my personal favorite.  It shrinks nicely and has a nice & smooth matte finish when complete.  I stamped the border & monogram with Palette Noir.

I then punched it out with the 1-3/8 inch standard circle punch.  I used a 1/4-inch punch to add a hole suitable for stringing later on.  (I like to be sure to always use the 1/4-inch hole punch for this purpose, because the hole shrinks too!)  I then shrunk the charm with my heat gun.  I like to keep a stamp block handy to press the polyshrink when it is done to be sure that it is perfectly flat.

I then made my bracelet and added the monogram charm with a small jump ring. 

If you have never done any beading before, there are a plethora of amazing websites that offer great tutorials.  Beading is surprisingly very easy and you can use many of your stamping skills when choosing the color, scale & design of your jewelery.  Here are a few places you may want to check out...

Beadage

Fire Mountain Gems & Beads

123 Bead!

After I completed my bracelet, I decided that it needed to have some coordinating gift wrap!  I figured a tin would be the perfect container to start with.  I chose the 8oz. square clear top tin.  First I wanted to create an insert to help showcase the bracelet.  I traced the rim of the tin bottom onto white cardstock.  I used our Stamper's Select white cardstock because of it's superior weight.  I knew it would stand up well inside the tin.

I then traced just INSIDE the line with a stylus (You want to be sure to do it slightly smaller, or else it will not fit in the tin).  I trimmed the cardstock down to 1-inch from the line on all four sides.

I used scissors and cut slits from the outside edge to the scored line around each of the four corners.  I also rounded the corners, maintaining the 1-inch perimeter from the scored line.

I folded all of the tabs inward and inserted them into the base of my tin.  If you use a heavy-weight cardstock, there is no need for any adhesive or additional support in the center.  It will just stand on it's own!

It created the perfect base to showcase my bracelet.  If you wanted to, you could also punch holes in this base to insert the ends of your jewelery, allowing your central charm to be the star of the show!

After that was completed, I thought the best way to embellish the tin would be to create a box band that could easily slide off and on.  I started by creating my patterned paper with a leaf stamp from Spiral Bouquet.  I found that Versafine Black was the best ink for this particular stamp.  I achieved a really solid, dense black image with it.  (I also used the small double circle stamp from Borders & Corners Rectangle).

I wanted to add a little detail to the edges of the band, so I drew two lines, closely spaced, on either side of the strip.  A ruler and a good quality black pen, like the pigment ink Multi-Liner from Copic, make quick work of this task.

I wrapped the band around my tin along with some black satin ribbon.  As a final touch, I stamped the same border stamp & monogram, punched it out with a 1-1/4 inch circle punch and matted it with the extra jumbo circle scallop punch.

I think this would make a beautiful gift for anyone this holiday season!  Did you notice the monogram on the set in particular today?  Yes, this set will be a special gift for ME.  I just love getting presents!  *wink*

See you tomorrow for some more fun sneak peeks!!!

SUPPLIES:

Ink- Versafine Onyx Black, Palette Noir

Stamps- Papertrey Ink

Paper- Stamper's Select White from Papertrey, Beetle Black from Bazzill

Other- black satin ribbon from Offray (Wal-Mart), extra-jumbo scalloped circle punch from Marvy, 8oz. square clear top tin, beads & findings from Hobby Lobby, polyshrink from Lucky Squirrel

5

Here we are!  Time to kick off Papertrey's official November Countdown!  What?  You don't know what our countdown is all about?  For those of you who are new to this, here are a few details...

-Papertrey Ink releases a new stamp set (or in this particular case FOUR) every month at 12am on the 15th of the month.

-Beginning the 10th of the month I provide little sneak peeks of the upcoming release here, along with inside tips & tutorials that will help lead you to success when you use the stamps on your own.

-A new project (or projects, depending on how well my mojo is flowing) will be added to the countdown each night at midnight up until the release.

So are we ready to let the fun begin?!?!?

I thought I would start the countdown with a fun twist on a golden oldie.  Many stampers are familiar with the 2-4-6-8 box.  Here is an updated version that helps to showcase our newest releases.  I am sure experienced paper-crafters out there may have already tried a concept like this, but I thought it would beneficial to share the details step-by-step for those who may be unfamiliar with it.

I stamped the linear images from Spiral Bouquet using white craft ink from SU!, creating my own patterned paper to work with.

Here is a close-up of one portion of the paper.

I decided to add some sparkle to go along with the theme of my project.  I added small dots of glitter in a few choice areas with my Stardust pen.

To form the box, I cut my cardstock down to 8.5 x 7.5 inches.  I scored the cardstock @ 2,4,6 & 8 inch points along the 8.5-inch side using my ScorPal, which made it SO easy.

I then flipped the cardstock around and created one 2-inch score on the 7.5-inch side.

Using scissors, I snipped the score lines up until the 2-inch scoreline, removing the far corner completely.  This creates four equal flaps for the bottom of the "box".I applied tacky tape in the appropriate areas for box assembly.

I then trimmed the top edge of my box with some scalloped scissors ($2 from Hobby Lobby!  Gotta love a bargain!)

I then applied tacky tape to a a few choice tabs in order to assemble the box.

After assembling my box, I added a cardstock handle by attaching it to the sides of the box with rhinestone brads from Making Memories. (My handle measured 7 x 0.5 inches)

For the front of the box, I created a label that makes this box a perfect favor for a Bridal Shower.  I love the addition of the rhinestone stickers.  I think it is the perfect finishing touch for this type of theme. 

I am going to leave you guessing (for now) as to how many stamp sets are used in the label.  I would be curious to know YOUR guesses as to what types of sets are being released based on the clues I have provided in the photo.  Be sure to leave your thoughts on this in the comments section!  Tomorrow I will have a few more details to reveal!

P.S.  A big THANK-YOU to Beth Silaika for creating my new watermark for me.  She was wonderful to work with and highly recommend her to anyone who is looking to have their own custom watermark designed!

SUPPLIES:

Ink- Aloe Vera Versamagic, White Craft SU!, Silver Encore

Stamps- Papertrey Ink

Paper- green & silver cardstocks from Prism, Stamper's Select white cardstock from Papertrey Ink

Other- adhesive rhinestones from Paper Studio (Hobby Lobby), Extra Jumbo scalloped square punch from Marvy, rhinestone brads from Making Memories