Create Well Create Often

Pink Paislee - You

2012-01-28T12:42:00.000-08:00

When I had my son and we made the decision for me to stay home, I really didn't know how hard the journey would be. Not because I didn't want to stay at home. But, I had no idea that I was created to create. Does that make sense? Maybe for other artists it does... there is something that drives artists to always be busy making art.

I didn't scrapbook for months. It could have been a couple of years. I can't remember. [Not creating for a few days for me is torture.] My twin has always encouraged me to keep at it, including then. I am so thankful that she encouraged me to start art up again.

So, this week has been a difficult. I have started the bible study called, Jennifer Rothchild's Me, Myself, and Lies. Jennifer Rothchild teaches how to train your mind to think positively, not giving into the lies you may have been told or are telling yourself. Some lies that I have been fighting this week have been, "You are not good enough." "Why you?" "Who do you think you are?" "You are nobody of importance."

Then I saw this line, Indigo Bleu from Pink Paislee. Ha! Who would have thought a paper line would speak to my heart? I guess paper can speak to paper artists. ;) "Free-spirit" and "Free bird" are some of the quotes in the stamps and shipping tags.

Craft Warehouse was first to describe my art as "free-spirited" and I think it defines me. It for sure explains how I scrap. It also describes how my brain and heart work when I am not crafting. My mind doesn't stop with the ideas that sometimes I need to keep a sketch book out on my night stand so I can jot the ideas down so I can rest and sleep.

Maybe it is hard to explain, but it is me. It is who I was created to be. I keep telling myself, "For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." Ephesians 2:10

He created me. In advance He laid this path for me. So, I will do the best for Him with all the opportunities He gives me.

Create Well: Be yourself. Be YOU.

Pink Paislee - XO Mini

2012-01-26T12:12:00.000-08:00

Pink Paislee just released their Indigo Bleu line! I was so inpsired by the blue and yellow color combo. So, it was much fun to create an acrylic mini album with it. It reminded me of my favorite place to go for inspiration - Molly Mo's.

Do you go to antique faires for inspiration? I do. Here are some of my pages from my inspiration journal that is going to be at the Pink Paislee CHA booth.

Acrylic is so hard to photograph. Each layer adds to the next. So, I created a video of the finished mini so that you can see each page as it is in person.

Make sure you check in here at Pink Paislee to enter to win this whole collection!

Create Well: Bring your camera to the next antique faire you go to. Inspiration can be in unexpected places.

Pink Paislee - Spring Jubliee Fabric Cuff

2012-01-25T12:10:00.000-08:00

Have you ever been in the middle of a project and all of a sudden it hits you - HARD... You freak out inside (or sometimes on the outside, which I have been known to do in the middle of a scrap retreat). You realize that you love creating. You love art. You are having that "Ahh-ha" moment. That you were created to be creative.

Yeah, that was me [again] last week when I created this cuff for the Pink Paislee CHA booth.

I created the cuff with a muslin base. It was created similar to the cuff shared here. But, I actually sewed the sections together on the front instead of just gluing them. I did use Helmar's 450 Quick Dry for keeping pieces down flat.

I tested a Faber Castell Indian Ink Brush Pen on the muslin and it worked so well! I even splashed water on my test material and not one smudge. It was totally amazing. I placed all the stamps of the Pink Paislee Spring Jubilee on my acrylic block, colored it in with the brush pen, and stamped away!

I also colored the Mistables Ribbon by Pink Paislee. So amazing how easy this was!

Create Well: "For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." - Ephesians 2:10

Pink Paislee - Spring

2012-01-24T16:49:00.000-08:00

Who doesn't love spring? Flowers blooming, digging in the garden, fresh clean air, and warmer days are all things I love about spring. Just looking at this new line by Pink Paislee called Spring Jubilee makes me wish these dark and wet days away.

The chipboard stickers that have a glossy finish are darling. The rubons and clear stamps in this collection are some of the best I have seen out in a long while. I also used liquid watercolors on the Timber Wood Shop letters and they really took on the color well! Nice and bright. ;)

This line really brightens my day. ;) [Since it is only 2pm and it looks like it is 7pm outside]

Create Well: Spring, come soon... we miss you dearly.

Helmar & Authentique - Believe

2012-01-22T19:53:00.000-08:00

I was not sure what to expect yesterday when I went to visit my friend. I was shocked when I saw her on the news with her damaged home from the flood last week. I had been trying to get in touch with her but there was no answer when I called her and we were asked to stay away from flood areas so that emergency vehicles could get through and repair damaged bridges. I wasn't ready to see a gutted house.

My friend could be asking "Why?" But she wasn't. She was even trying to get her kids back to some sort of schedule since their home school curriculum was lost. She said to me, "We have to move forward." While her husband and a team stripped the home down to the bare minimum, she was making a home at the camp her husband helps run.

She told me that there was every news station in her home the day before. Was she telling her sob story? No. She told me that she witnessed to each one of them while the cameras were rolling. "There are so many other people who are needing more help than us... God protected us, got us out, and we are safe." This coming from a woman who doesn't know what can be salvaged from her home. This is faith.

I have always admired my friend's strength in times of trouble. More so now than ever.

This layout was created for Helmar & Authentique Week last week. Isn't it important to "enjoy the moment" no matter our circumstance?

The layout is a take on Helmar's January sketch by Lydell Quin. I wanted to use Authentique's Gathering line and was inspired to keep to the square and rectangle shapes of the icons. I kept everything really tight mimicking the sketch's circle design.

After throwing some paint on the background page, I started layers my pieces. I always use Helmar's Quickfix Adhesive Runner for my first layer, which in this case, was my photograph and three pieces of pattern paper.

Then, I began to use Zapdots double sided adhesive circles and squares on the borders and icons. I continued to layer the quote and sub-title with Scrapdots.

Use Scrapdots as your last layer so that you can leave it alone to dry all the way. The larger the dot of this liquid adhesive the higher the layer! (I love this product!)

Create Well: Have faith, no matter what the circumstance.

Five Things Now

2012-01-17T12:36:00.000-08:00

For those of us in the Willamette Valley, it has been an exciting weekend. Snow almost never comes to the valley floor. I wish it would last longer on the ground but I am content with the flakes falling all the same. We almost felt like we were on vacation. Snuggling lazily under blankets all day while occasionally getting up to scrapbook. The boys played games during the day while we refilled our warm cups of coffee and hot chocolate. It is snowing now while I type this next to the warm fire. Sounds lovely, right? It is...

So, I excitedly created with Amy Tangerine's line for American Crafts. I couldn't help myself. The last time I was in my local scrapbook store, I picked up the whole line. Again. ;)

So, when I create for myself, I try to use most of my stash. I recorded myself doing this layout and I can't wait to get to make that video soon.

Some special items on the page include, tags by Debee Ruiz, a vintage date stamp, vintage trim, doily die by Tim Holtz for Sizzix, playing card, feathers, super old twisty ties (I have no idea who they are by), rub-ons by My Little Yellow Bicycle, and Amy Tangerine & Thickers by American Crafts.

Create Well: Whether it is snowing where you are or not, enjoy your day. You deserve some me time.

Helmar & May Arts - Romantic Ribbon Cuff

2012-01-13T13:58:00.000-08:00

I am so excited to share with you the second part of my project for Helmar & May Arts Week! I created Romantic Ribbon Trim earlier in the week and now I am sharing my Romantic Ribbon Cuff.

To create this lovely bangle, follow the directions of creating my ribbon trim as shown in the three minute video below. Cut your fabric to about 8"x3".

Instead of cutting your fabric into strips, cut another piece of fabric with iron-on interfacing to the same size and put right sides together. Sew the two pieces of fabric together and leave an opening on one side. Flip inside out. Top stitch the opening closed adding a little ribbon to loop onto a button to close the bracelet. I used my heavy duty needle and a 4-5 stitch to top stitch the whole thing so it would look quilted.

I used a little crocheted doily in the middle and added an 18 gauge wire to the little porcelain doll. I glued these down with Helmar's 450 Quick Dry. Did you know this glue is machine washable? Perfect for your fabric projects.

I then added the bling! To create these faux pearls with a pearl paint pen and clear string, watch the one and a half minute video below.

I took the string of pearls and again, used Helmar's 450 Quick Dry to glue them down. The easiest way I found to glue them was to rub the pearl along the tip of the bottle. Then put the pearl on the fabric. Do this one pearl at a time. They adhered perfectly and beautifully!

Create Well: Use your scraps of ribbon to create a one-of-a-kind piece of wearable art.

Samantha Walker - New Beginnings Blog Hop

2012-01-10T23:00:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the first Samantha Walker Blog Hop of 2012! If you found me from Angi Barrs' blog I am so happy to have you here! Samantha Walker will be having a blog hop once a month where her Design Team will be sharing their creations with her brilliant products! You can start the hop here.

This month, I have two burlap hybrid projects to show! The first one is this re-purposed frame into an earring holder. For Christmas, I got these great feather earrings from Forever 21 (thanks Mum!). They go great with my purple hair extensions. ;) I think it is so funny that I spent an afternoon making this for my $4 earrings. Ha!

To create the frame follow these instructions:

1. Find a frame at a thrift store or re-purpose one like I have done. Remove the glass and back. Spray paint it the color of your choice. I used black for a classic look.

2. Next open Photoshop and create a new project by clicking on File, then New. Make your project 8.5 x 11 inches. Use 300 resolution on a white background and click on OK.

3. If you are new to Photoshop, find the tool bar and put your cursor over the tools. Find the Ellipse tool. Click on it. Then find the circle (or oval shape) and click on it. Then, on your document click and drag your mouse to create a circle. I made mine large enough to fit in the file leaving the edges clear. Make enough room for step 4.

4. Do this again to make a "mat" around your first circle.

5. Open your file of digital pattern paper. Drag the paper you wish to use for the mat into Photoshop. I used the Circle Grey paper from Samantha Walker's Honey Golden Sunlight Paper Pack. Then you want to make sure this layer is large enough to fit in the circle. On the right, you will see a list of your layers. Click on the paper layer you just added. Drag it to go above your mat layer. Then, on the top of your screen you will see "Layer" click the drop down menu and click on "Release Clipping Mask" (or short key for Photoshop CS2 Ctrl+Alt+G). This will make your gray paper into the mat.

6. Do step five again with the center circle this time. I used the Honey Comb from the same pack. It is vintage-chic with the bees on it!

7. On your tool bar you have a text tool. Click on it and then click again on your project. Find a font you like and begin typing. I used the year my husband and I were married. I wanted it to be something my husband could stand to look at. ;) A quote would work well too.

8. Save the project as a Photoshop document (Click Save As and then to your computer). I also saved it at as a JPEG by clicking Save As, JPEG, and then to my computer at 12, the highest quality image.

9. Next use a t-shirt printer transfer. I got mine at my local craft store. I followed the instructions on the package. It has an online program to reverse the image which I did. I then printed the image on the transfer paper.

10. According to the transfer's instructions, iron it to the burlap. Make sure the edges are all done. Burlap is a hard surface to iron to, so go slow in removing the backing.

11. Using a staple gun, staple the back of the burlap to the frame starting with the top then going to the bottom, side, to side, and then filling in the gaps.

12. Cut the excess burlap off and hang!

Here is another burlap project using the Harvest Moon Mega Pack. I love how many elements are in this kit. There are many you can use anytime of year! This digital frame was used with a quote this time (inspired from Pinterest). It is easier to make since you don't need to create any shapes using a digital frame.

"We are constantly invited to be what we are." - Henry David Thoreau

To be entered to win a $10 gift certificate to use in Samantha Walker's digital store and a can of Preserve Your Memories II Acrylic Spray care of Preserve Your Memories, make sure to leave a comment on my blog. One random winner will be picked from all the comments left on the design team members' blogs. To help increase your chance of winning, make sure to follow Samantha's blog or facebook page. Then, comment again letting us know you have! (Note: Shipping for the Acrylic Spray is only available in the US due to mailing aerosol restrictions.)

Click on the link below to go on to the next team member's blog to see what they've created!

Create Well: Use burlap and iron-on transfers to create a home decor piece you would be proud of!

Helmar - Romantic Ribbon Trim

2012-01-10T15:51:00.000-08:00

When I think of Valentine's Day, I can't help but get a little romantic. I love bright reds and pinks. But this time of year, I can't help but think of vintage doilies, my grandmother's tablecloths, and lovely trims. It is usually the time of year I think of my grandparents' love story. They are no longer with us, but their love and legacy lives on.

With that, I was inspired to create Valentines with these envelopes Helmar and May Arts ribbon. This project can be easily completed to create several Valentines at a time. Fill these darling envelopes with any treat or little something for that special someone.

To see how to make this trim, watch the below three minute film.

I can't wait to share the other project I created with this beautiful trim soon!

Create Well: Be inspired to create with your ribbons and trims!

Samantha Walker - Decadence Fabric

2012-01-09T14:02:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was chilly but dry. For this Oregonian it means it was a perfect time to venture out and take some photos. Samantha Walker's Decadence Fabric Line was so inspiring that I had to play with it this weekend! I created this blouse with this orange and white fabric.

To create the blouse, I created a pattern with a large sheet of paper. I took a top from my closet to use as a guide. I traced half of the top and folded the paper over to cut the pattern out. Then, I cut the front side of the top with the White Floral Decadence Fabric using the pattern.

Since I only had a yard of fabric and cotton of course needs a zipper or buttons in the back, I chose to use a knit fabric for the back. I used a brown that matched perfectly. Now I can slide this top on and off over my head with no problem.

I also made the back longer to be a little more modest. The front is a nice length that I can also wear another layer underneath (such as a lace undershirt) if I like.

For the collar, I folded the fabric as if I was creating large bias tape. Then I folded it over itself. I pinned it on the collar and sewed it down.

I love that I can layer this top along with my thrifted sweater. I am going to try this with a few blouse patterns I have here at home. It is a great way to use hip new cotton fabrics along with knits to create an easy pull over top in one afternoon!

Create Well: Be bold. Mix knits and cottons to create a unique wardrobe with hip cotton fabrics.

Be Yourself Mini Album Part 2

2012-01-05T16:33:00.001-08:00

I have been proud of myself this week... I actually picked up the camera to shoot our everyday life. Yeah, including the pile of Legos on my dining room table. The same pile that is there again today. No matter how much those little guys hurt to step on, I know I will be missing these days when my little man is older. I am looking forward to sharing these photos soon on upcoming projects!

Here are some more photos of my mini album shared at Pink Paislee yesterday.

Create Well: Take time to document your everyday.

Be Yourself Mini Book

2012-01-04T00:00:00.000-08:00

The first day back from vacation is always a hard one. It required several cups of coffee and even hot cocoa later. Everyone feels better after a cup of hot cocoa. Especially with this great new large mug I bought ;)

God blessed us with a beautiful sunny day to make up for it. Getting outside twice today to just walk, run, and play did us both good. I got to take photos of my little man outside for the first time in several months. He stood still a few times long enough for me to snap a few.

I was able to finish a mini album that I had laying around without any journaling filled in. Ha! I thought it would be a great way to document my goals, likes, favorites, and playlists for the new year.

This album was created with Pink Paislee's Daily Junque Line (which was my favorite line of all time! I still am hoarding little pieces of this paper for my journals!).

Today, I am being featured on the Pink Paislee Blog. If you take a peek, make sure to say hello! You can also see more pages of this album there too!

Create Well: Be who you were created to be. Be yourself.

Laughter is the Spark of the Soul

2012-01-01T21:49:00.000-08:00

So, I wake up to this conversation my husband has while helping my four year old son in the bathroom.

"Watch this trick Daddy."

"WHAT?! No! Don't wipe yourself with Mom's guest towels! Do you do that all the time?"

"Oh yeah. It's a pretty good trick, huh?"

Oh man. All that company we had this holiday season. I am sorry. So sorry.

If that's the first conversation I hear for 2012, I think I am in for quite the adventure! Last year I lost my groove of writing those little funny stories down. I am going to make sure this year I pick it up again.

Create Well: Write down life's little funnies...

Blessings in the New Year

2011-12-31T11:48:00.000-08:00

Have you ever had one of those days where you just are in awe of the blessings that God can give? I have the verse Psalm 106:2 on my sidebar to help remind me of His continued miracles in my life. My dear twin sister, Becca, had just encouraged me a couple of weeks ago with, "God has bigger and better plans for you. You just have to wait to see what they are." Yesterday was the day.

The day started out with...

sleeping in (Yes! I love vacation!),

a good cup of coffee,

being able to maneuver through a dining room floor filled with Legos and NOT stepping on one (that merits a good morning alone),

getting accepted on the Samantha Walker Creative Crafters Team, (AMAZING!).

That calls for some excitement. But, right then, the doorbell rings. UPS has left a box on my doorstep.

A dear friend has just sent me Crate Paper's entire Toy Box line. You would have thought I missed Christmas or something!

I had just finished putting the box of goodies away when I get news of this.

I then just start screaming, "What is going on!?" Again, "who can ever praise him half enough." Right?! I am so thankful to Pink Paislee for adding me to their amazing and talented Design Team!

This year is already looking to be a good year! I stand amazed at what is to come. In fact, I was so excited last night I went into my studio and created four projects! Ha!

I can't wait to share 2012 with you, friends.

Create Well: God has bigger and better plans for you. You just have to wait to see what they are.

December Daily & Merry Christmas!

2011-12-24T20:08:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas dear friends! I have been so blessed this year and I can't express how grateful to God I am for those blessings! I have had a chance to meet such lovely friends via this blog and the online art community. I wanted to take this opportunity to say thank you. You are loved!

^"8 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. ⁹ An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. ¹⁰ But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. ¹¹ Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. ¹² This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”
¹³ Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,
¹⁴ “Glory to God in the highest heaven,
and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”Luke 2:8-14 NIV

Create Well: Merry Christmas to all!

December Daily Album

2011-12-23T09:00:00.000-08:00

Having an advent calendar is like having feeding your child sugar without actually doing it. I am serious. First I hear pitter-patter feet of my preschool running to the advent first thing in the morning and realizing that there are only two more days until Christmas, then, the screaming and extreme excitement while running circles around the house begins. It really is magical and frightening all at the same time. ;)

I love that I didn't purchase anything special for my album this year. I told myself that I couldn't. The last two years I did and didn't finish my album. I couldn't even get past day three. ;)

I used a summer rubon and took out the word "summer" and wrote in "season." Hey, it works...

This lovely transparency is I-don't-know-how-old along with Teresa Collins' Christmas pocket from last year. I also added a Fourth of July border. Ha!

This beautiful journaling card is used as pattern paper because Debee Ruiz is brilliant. Here is her shop. (Which is closed for the moment because of maternity leave/vacation. Make sure you take a peek at her new little baby boy!)

My sis gave me a handful of these snowflakes. She used them for a project and gave me the rest. I have been filling my album with these sparklies...

Create Well: Half the fun in creating a mini book is using up your stash. Seeing the piles of scraps go down is always a bonus!

December Daily Album

2011-12-22T20:37:00.000-08:00

I am so proud of myself! I didn't give up on this album this year. I tried not to pressure myself and do too much. I made sure I was having fun. In fact I have been having so much fun, that I need to clean up my scrap space; it's such a mess!

I am not going to lie and say this December was all merry and bright. In fact, it was filled with a lot of whining and complaining from my little four year old. But, I learned this year, that joy of the season comes from your own heart and not those around you. This album helped me remember the good that happened during this Christmas season. Just for that I am grateful.

I printed off a page of free downloadable tags from Anthropologie's facebook page. This "Love 2 You" and the "B Merry" (below) tag came from it. I used a photo of doing my Christmas cards. It was the first time in seven years that I have had time to send some out!

Here is a copy of the Christmas card in the album.

I am so glad that Elizabeth Kartchner reminded me that I have a ton of these little envelopes and have been hoarding them for years. I used this one to put a little love letter that my four year old wrote me. It is so special that I will treasure it forever!

Create Well: Joy of the season comes from your own heart...

December Daily Album

2011-12-16T20:48:00.001-08:00

So, here are some more of my pages from my December Daily Album.

I can't believe that this year was the first time I have seen this movie. Yep... it is true. But, I was so not happy with it. I mean, what was I suppose to tell my son about the dentist wanna-be elf? Why did he have to pull out the monster's teeth? I mean, really... my little man was to go to his first dentist appointment a couple of days after watching this. Sigh... we had to have a long talk about it.

We also got our first nativity. Mary was missing for a few days this week and I am grateful and happy to say that she has been found hanging upside down in the Christmas tree. So glad we didn't have a motherless Jesus in our nativity on Christmas.

Create Well: Enjoy the season. Whatever you can do to get a laugh in, do it.

Helmar - Faith Canvas

2011-12-15T12:00:00.000-08:00

I was almost in tears of excitement using Faber Castell's products this week on a mini canvas board. I love creating these because afterwards it easily fits into a frame by removing the glass. Then can get hung on right on the wall. Easy art!

This photo was taken by my sister of her mother-in-law. It had the perfect contrast for the bright colors that only Faber Castell can create in a mixed media project.

The layering process was so easy. The first layer was applied with Helmar's Decoupage and Craft Paste and paper (paper designed by Debee Ruiz from Me and My Big Ideas).
(Note: I only applied Helmar's Decoupage and Craft Paste to the board. I did not use a layer on top of the paper.)

It was super cold outside and too dark that I cut the paint splatter out of paper and glued it on instead of using the usual paint can this time. Ha!

I sped up the drying process with my heat gun...

I added a little white wash with white acrylic paint, water, and a paint brush so the colors of the Gelato would stand out more.

I then started applying the brillant products from Faber Castell.

I laid a circle stencil down over the paper and used the orange Gelato from the Mix and Match Mixed Media Sampler, then colored in random circles.I used a small paint brush and with a little water on it, I wet the circles. I made sure to use the heat gun to set it before the next step.

I repeated the same thing but used the PITT Artist Pen Big Brush in Dark Naples (deep yellow). I did a couple circles in the Turquoise Metallic Gelato for a little contrast. I again added a little water with a paint brush to blend in the color. I then used the heat gun before starting the next step.
Adding a little shading between the circles I drew with the Pink Gelato right onto the canvas. Using a clean wet small paint brush I blended it into the paper slightly. I then used the heat gun to dry it before the next step.

I loved it so much but wanted to tone down the yellow by shading it in with the matching Pastel Pencil. Then, I did a little outline on the outside of some circles with the PITT Artist Pens in Orange Glaze 113 and Deep Scarlet Red 219 (which are fine point drawing pens).

I then started adding my photo, border, and scraps for the journaling. I then stamped the script sentiment with black Stazon ink.

I used the Black 199 PITT Artist Pen Big Brush and actually wrote the title "Faith" right over the photo. I was shocked at how dark and vibrant the black was. It had no problem gliding across the photograph.

I have tried this technique with paint and really disliked the look of my handwriting using a paint brush. Using this Big Brush gave the affect that I wrote it with paint but it is so much easier to control. I was so pleased with it that I will be doing this more often on my mixed media projects and scrapbooking layouts! Plus, it is Indian ink which is why it is such a vibrant color - perfect for mixed media.

Knowing how beautiful the black dried, I went ahead and colored back in some of the paper's spray paint that was white washed. It really looks like I sprayed several layers of paint, when all I did was color dots in. ;)

Afterwards, spray the canvas with Helmar's NEW Crystal Kote Matte Fixative, to protect the project and make sure the beautiful colors STAY beautiful!

Create Well: Try to layer different products in a new way on your next project.

December Daily Album

2011-12-14T07:00:00.000-08:00

As I mentioned in the previous post, I finally {insert extreme happiness here} have pages in my December Daily done. Third year's a charm. ;)

I love pages peeking through other pages. I cut this page so the colors will show through. This is a page with digital elements by Ali Edwards.

I even included our every day activities, like my son's first trip to the dentist! {Yeah! No cavities!}

This is an old page from last year (notice the old holes punched out?). It was inspired by the talented Vee Jennings. She is amazing. I just had to remove the old photo, add the date, and journaling.

This album has been so much fun! No pressure... just pure fun! I am looking forward to sharing more pages with you this week!

Create Well: Don't give up! Keep going, you can get that project finished that you started today!

December Daily Album

2011-12-13T18:55:00.000-08:00

I am so excited to say that I have actual pages completed in my December Daily album. It being the third year trying to do this album - I am so proud of myself! Ha! Most of my page backgrounds have been done ahead of time (like, last year and the year before). Although there are some new pages done too. Either way, it has been a fun time just playing!

The front cover was created with a clear acrylic sheet with a vintage flower and leaves on the top. The next page peeks through with the date.

The page that peeks through is by Ali Edwards.

The next page was an old page from last year inspired by the brilliant Vee Jennings.

It shows the next page that was also done last year. ;)

My pages aren't in order by the day. I love the acrylic pages peaking through certain pages so I have mixed my days up so the album's pages look good next to each other.

Here is an old acrylic page from last year, inspired by Vee Jennings, again. This year, I added the number.

Here is a new page! I love how the word "day" peeks through the acrylic page before it.

These two pages are also from last year, inspired by Vee Jennings.

Tomorrow, I will share more pages! It is so satisfying to get something done for me this month! ;)

Create Well: Wanted to do a family Christmas album? You can do it! ;) Third time's the charm!

Smash Book - The Good Stuff

2011-12-11T08:00:00.000-08:00

I couldn't help it. I had to take time out of making homemade gifts and take some me time. SMASHing is relaxing. There are no rules - just fun.

I love using inspirational magazine cut outs to start my pages like these from this month's Anthropologie catalogue.

I leave my journal cards empty until I am ready to journal. Then, I keep my pen and SMASH in my purse or close by so that I can jot things down.

What I love the most about SMASHing and Helmar is that I don't have to worry about how many layers I am going to add to the page. Helmar gives me the freedom to create how I love - one layer at a time.

As I layer I use different Helmar products to help me along. I always start with the Quickfix Adhesive Runner. It's fast and very sticky! It is the perfect first layer to make sure the rest of the page stays put!
I then go between Liquid Scrap Dots, 450 Quick Dry, and different sizes of Zapdots depending on what I need for my lift.

The most important thing to remember when relaxing is to use your stash and just have fun gluing it on!

Wanna be a fly on my wall while I scrap? Watch the video below of how I put these pages together (sped up for viewer's enjoyment).

Create Well: Getting caught up in all the activities of the holidays can wear you down. Remember to take a time out for you, so that you don't end up forgetting about the real reason why you celebrate in the first place.

Helmar Blog Hop Winner!

2011-12-06T13:24:00.001-08:00

Thank you for all the sweet comments about my Helmar project for this last weekend's blog hop. It was a blast seeing all of the creative projects from the team. It also got me in the Christmas spirit!

The winner of Helmar's Premium Craft Glue and the SMASH book was randomly picked by Random.org.

Susan Garman said...: Your tree is just beautiful. I love all the little goodies including the reindeer, lights, garland, doves, blackboard, ornaments, can't remember everything. :).

I already follow Helmar and will begin to follow you on your blog and Pinterest, (can't wait to repin some of your ideas).

Merry Christmas and thanks for sharing, especially that most entertaining video.
December 3, 2011 8:48 AM

Email me at createoften(at)gmail(dot)com with you shipping information!

Merry Christmas and congratulations!

Helmar - FabScraps Dangle

2011-12-05T07:00:00.000-08:00

Today, I wanted to show you another wonderful gift idea. This dangle can be attached to any necklace you already own. This way you can wear it high or low with any outfit. This dangle looks even more "vintage" with a few pearls hanging from FabScrap charms.

It was made the same way the necklaces were that I shared with you on Saturday. I just cut chain to the size I wanted and added the embellishments with jump rings. I loved the vintage style charms from FabScraps.

How easy is that? Just attach a clasp at the end of the chain to hang it on anything. (You could also create a simple keyring this way too!) I also used the filigree in this kit to make it hang on the necklace.

Now, I wanted to show you how I created the string of pearls... (This is the fun part!)
Remember, I am not a bead-er and if you are, you have serious patience. ;) Plus, beads can get pricey if you are creating several gift items.

The supplies you need to create the string of pearls are as follows:
a non-stick craft sheet
Pearl Paint Pen in white
invisible thread (you can use clear beading string, but it will be stiffer and not dangle along with the charms)
Helmar's 450 Quick Dry

On you craft sheet, tape your invisible thread all the way across it. Do it multiple times. It takes a long time for this paint to dry so doing several strands would be wise. Use the paint pen to make your pearls along the thread. Let it dry at least six to eight hours.
Watch the video to see how I do it...

After they are dry, flip them over and apply the paint again over top the flat area. Have fun creating large or small beads right next to each other.Let them dry another 4-6 hours. You can tell they are done by touching them slightly.

Take the string of pearls and tie them to the chain at different lengths. I used two strands, but three is fun too! Cut the strand to the length you like leaving a little thread at the end of the strand.
Then, to make sure each bead stays put, add a little dab of Helmar's Quick Dry glue to the end of the strand with a tooth pick.

Can you imagine FabScraps silver charms with red or green for a holiday look?
To create regular pearls, like in the necklaces posted earlier, you can just put the pearl paint on the non-stick craft sheet without any thread. When it dries, add Helmar's 450 Quick Dry to the back and place the pearls on paper, fabric, or even FabScrap's filigrees.

When I wear my dangle, my family and friends are shocked that it was handmade. In fact, when they find out it is they have to take another look. ;)

Helmar Holiday Blog Hop - DIY Winter Lights & Giveaway

2011-12-02T23:59:00.000-08:00

It’s that time of year where we all start thinking of theholidays so what better way to get your Holiday spirit than a great Helmar Holiday Hop? Filled with so much Holiday cheer and some amazing projectsfeaturing all the different Helmar Adhesives.

Hello everyone and welcome to my stop on the Helmar HolidayHop. If you have been following along, you should have hopped here from Angie Blom's blog. If not, you just have to stop at the Helmar Blog and startfrom the beginning. There are goodies along the way and we don’t want you tomiss a thing!

I have a soft spot in my heart for Christmas trees. My dear sister use to decorate them professionally and taught me her secrets. Every year I look forward to the time I get the decorations out. I am always looking for unique things to add to the tree each year and this year is no exception. But, this year I wanted little handmade lovelies to adorn my tree.

I will stick anything in my Christmas tree. My husband put his foot down on my sticking a vintage pinhole camera in the tree this year. ;) You can find several art pieces on the branches. I love adding some personal touches. Plus, I never get bored looking at it for an entire month!

These handmade white balls can be strung on your tree, hung as garland, or individually placed carefully on a branch with pre-strung lights. I made this fun video to show you how I made them!

Enlarge to see detail

To treat you all this holiday season, I am giving away two of my favorite things... a Red SMASH book and one 1.70 oz. tube of Helmar's Premium Craft Glue! All you need to enter to win this prize is to post a comment and tell me what items you can find in my Christmas tree. You can also have another chance to win by following my blog, follow me OR Helmar on Facebook, Twitter, or Pintrest and comment here that you have done so. That's six chances to win!

Make sure you leave a comment at every stop because theelves of Helmar will be giving away prizes to some lucky Helmar fans. Now hopon over to Linda Baldock's blog to see another amazing Helmar Holiday project. TheHoliday Hop will be open for comments until 11:59 P.S.T December 4^th, so take a look and enjoy a little holiday spirit from all of us on the Helmar Team. Thanks again for stopping by today and Happy Holidays.

Create Well: Merry Christmas and Happy Creating!

Helmar Holiday Blog Hop

2011-11-29T13:49:00.001-08:00

It's almost December and I am ready for some Christmas celebration! Join me for this weekend for a fun holiday blog hop with an excellent giveaway! Can't wait to see you then!

Helmar - Charmed Necklaces

2011-11-27T07:00:00.000-08:00

I am by no means a jewelry maker, but I love all forms of art. Being a mixed media artist, I can't help but have my hands into all forms of creating. FabScraps is not only a great company for scrapbooking, but I fell head-over-heals for their charms and filigrees. They are perfect for making those one of a kind necklaces for yourself or a loved one this holiday season!

Here is a video of the necklaces and how I created them.

I used Helmar's 450 Quick Dry for both necklaces.

Note: In the video you can see a white glue on the flower. I tried using Helmar's Gemstone Glue but I ended up using 450 Quick Dry instead after removing it with Helmar's Remove, their awesome adhesive removal. (Gotta love the creative process!) I would recommend 450 Quick Dry on any crafting metal surface.

Stay tuned in for next week's FabScrap Week with more of their products to share created by the Design Team! Monday at Helmar, I will share another great gift idea with a video to show you how I created the "faux" pearls for these necklaces.

Create Well: Wanna make it? Just try...

DIY Feather Hair Extension and Clip

2011-11-25T13:00:00.001-08:00

Feathers are all the rage right now. What better way to give in and make your teenager happy this season by giving her a collection of homemade feather clips? These are so easy that you might make a collection of them to give away!

Supplies:

A Variety of Craft Feathers (This one was made with a package of colored ones you can find in the craft department. But, if you want even nicer ones you can buy them separately with the hair extensions. There are so many to choose from at your local Craft Warehouse!)

Chain (You can find a selection of chain in the beading department. I chose silver, but there are several kinds to choose from.)

Charms (You can also find these in the beading department.)

Wire and Wire Cutters

Twine (Pick a thin twine to use for this project. I used a fine black floss. Look around for one you like in the scrapbooking, fabric, craft, or beading departments.)

Jump Rings (regular jump rings can be found in the beading department)

Snap Hair Clips

Lay your supplies on a non stick craft sheet or wax paper. Find the feathers you would like to use and arrange them. I found that three thin ones and two larger ones worked well.

I actually used picture hanger wire but any thin or fine wire would work fine. Wrap the feathers together with about four inches of wire starting from the bottom working to the top. Use the end of the wire to wrap into a little loop at the top. Clip off any extra wire and wrap the last part of the wire around the feathers.

Use liquid glue to coat the wire. Use your twine to wrap around the wire so you hide the wire. Make sure to get the ends into the glue. Let it dry.

Decide how much chain you would like. If you are making it for someone with long hair you will want it long to hang down low. If the person has short hair, they will most likely wear it as a clip and you will not want many links. As you can see in the picture, I use a long strand of chain at about two inches. Break the chain apart with wire cutters.

Use a jump ring to attach the feathers to the end of the chain. Place a jump ring on a snap clip and attach the chain to the same jump ring. Close the jump ring.

Now it is time to embellish your chain with a charm or two. Make sure your charm is not too big or heavy. You can even add beads to your chain if you like. Just add a jump ring and attach the jump ring to the links in the chain.

Create Well: This year, make something trendy for your teenagers (or yourself!)

Grateful Blessings

2011-11-18T22:49:00.001-08:00

This week I have felt God's blessings in unmeasurable ways. Have you ever just had one of those weeks? You look at your family and those you love and wonder if you could bottle up all that love and happiness for the times in the future that you may need it more?

Today was my last guest designer post for Helmar. I am still pinching myself to see if it is still true that Helmar wanted me for their design team during the next six month term. I feel so blessed to be able to create for them several times a month now.

Craft Warehouse then contacted me this week to help them with their blog design for the holidays and the new year. I was bubbling with excitement when Echo Park agreed for me to use their designs for the blog. You have to go and check it out. Isn't the little girl darling? I am so thankful for the chance to work with such a great team and company. They truly let me use my talents.

Then, you look across the table at dinner time and see how your family has changed and grown. When did he get that big? How old he sounds when he tells us about his day. Time goes by so fast and I feel thankful that I get to record it all in photographs and paper.

It seems like such a simple thing. But, right now, it is beautiful.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Create Well: It's the little things that make life special.

Evans Photography - Helmar and May Arts

2011-11-16T07:00:00.000-08:00

So, my dear husband took loads of pictures for me yesterday. I needed pictures for my first design team post for Helmar with May Arts ribbon. (A great excuse to wear my new Anthropologie sweater that I got for my birthday.) ;)

(top and sweater: Anthropologie; belt: The Gap;

necklace and headband by Jen Evans)

It's nice to know our old fence is good for something. ;)

These aren't the only wear-ables I have been creating lately. Soon I will be able to share with you some new necklaces that I have been working on for Helmar.

Besides this super cute sweater, I also got two more of my "favorite things" for my birthday last week. A super soft blanket and Cadbury's Crunchie candy bar! Now you know why I need to finish this post. ;)

Create Well: Give yourself a break. Snuggle under a warm blanket and just eat some chocolate.

Craft Warehouse - You're So Sweet

2011-11-15T07:00:00.000-08:00

Crate Paper rocks! ;) Crate Paper sent Craft Warehouse designers their new line, Farmhouse to create with. I honestly haven't had this much fun with a line for quite some time. There were diecuts, papers, chipboard, buttons, brads, frames, flowers... I would go on but it makes me want to go scrapbook if I do. ;)

I love farms this time of year. This is the first year that we really have been able to go just as a family. I am a sucker for flowers. This time of year the bouquets are exquisite; filled with dahlias of all colors and asters. I love purple asters. I give myself an excuse to go and let my little man play on the playground, feed the animals, ride the play tractor, and then we go inside to gawk at the flowers. I may even come home with some local honey to bake with. Then we drive home happily eating from a honey stick as a snack.

Create Well: What do you love about this time of year? Create a layout describing it in your journaling.

Vintage Inspired Rosette Necklace and Headband

2011-11-14T13:59:00.001-08:00

I am not sure if it is the weather, the Holiday Open House at Craft Warehouse I went to, or the box of Helmar goodies I got in the mail (or maybe it's all of the above) that has been keeping me creating all weekend long. Seriously, I can barely sleep with all the ideas in my head. I need to keep my inspirational journal by my bedside so that I can jot things down and get back to some much needed shut-eye.

Today I got my dear husband to take some pictures for the Helmar Design Team Blog. It is my first assignment for the team and I had a blast creating the necklace. I also created this headband as well. There is a new video on the post how to create the necklace. Check it out!

This weekend my sister, Mum, and I celebrated my birthday with coffee and a trip into some local shops. It really got me in the mood for the holidays. Although I am not quite ready to put my tree up, I am looking forward to planning for our new advent calendar. Do you have any unique and fun ideas to share?

Create Well: Prepare your homemade Christmas and holiday gifts early so you have time to share the month of December with your family and friends.

Yuck?

2011-11-11T11:58:00.001-08:00

It is strange that my little man loves to run, crash, bang into everything, dig in the dirt, play in the sand, but when it comes to carrying a tiny little pumpkin with dirt on it all of a sudden he doesn't like touching dirt. It was so funny how his little fingers would only touch the edges of the pumpkin.

There are a few things I dislike touching... you know those things that make your teeth chatter and your spine shake?

1. Velvet or velour. Sad. But true. I can't touch the stuff without my teeth clanging together.

2. Someone rubbing a dry napkin between their fingers. It is seriously like dragging fingernails across a chalk board. I totally loose it and have been known to grab the napkin from the person's hands. ;) My mother knows this and sometimes uses it against me. ;)

3. Glitter. There is no love/hate relationship here. I don't like it. Period. ;) But it is pretty. Just not on my fingers.

4. Sand. I love the beach, but, sand is almost as bad as glitter. It sticks with you for days. ;) I actually wear boots to the beach so it won't stick to me. lol...

Thankfully, I love getting my hands dirty with paint and glue! I am guest designer for Helmar. Check out another one of my projects here... It is actually made with glitter paper lol... Miraculously, I didn't faint using it. It was beautiful as long as I didn't touch it too much. lol...

Create Well: It is good to get your hands dirty every once and a while...

They Say It's Your Birthday!

2011-11-09T08:46:00.000-08:00

What I love about November is that it is filled with holidays. Today, it is my birthday (along with my twin sister, Becca, as well!). Yeah! Birthdays are always fun around here! I love this "serious" looking photograph. We were trying to get a vintage photo when really we couldn't stop laughing. We need to get some more photos with just the two of us. This was the summer before last.

What I love about being a twin....

- no one understands you better than your twin. not even your husband (sorry babe!)

- you don't have to even finish a sentence and she already knows what you are saying. like it is in some mental code. although this makes it hard to communicate with anyone else. ;)

- sharing your special day with someone else is always better. it has made me a "giver" and i am always thinking of it being her day instead of mine. it has made me less selfish. ;)

- no matter how hard we try to think outside the box for gifts, there has been times we actually have bought the same present for each other.

- we don't feel each others' pain, we have a connection that if one is hurting it breaks the other to tears instantly.

- there isn't anyone else i trust more in the world. she is a part of me. there is a special bond formed when you share the womb. ;)

Happy Birthday Sis!

Craft Warehouse - Simply Love

2011-11-08T20:33:00.000-08:00

I was so excited to get to work with Crate Paper's Farmhouse line this month for Craft Warehouse! I am not kidding! This line was so inspiring... In fact, I created several projects with it that I can't wait to share with you! The first, is this plaque. I had a chance to LAYER it on! How fun!

It was so much fun to add to the layers... especially the little drops of tea from the teapot to the teacups. ;) Wait until you see the rest of the projects I did with this line! I can't wait to share!

Create Well: Create a plaque for your own wall or door. To protect the lovelies from the elements add a sealer to the top of the project.

Another Red Smash Book Page

2011-11-04T13:04:00.000-07:00

There are days I can't help but SMASH. You know the ones...

- it's raining - again

- the fire is too hot to sit next to. yeah, you make a mean fire when your husband is gone at work, but sometimes it comes to bite you in the behind... you are sweating now and can't even be in the living room, dining room, or hallway...

- you just finished reading Hunger Games and can't get to the store to get the next book in the series fast enough...

- the coffee pot is empty and you can't stop moving and in my case, that's when the layering doesn't stop ;)

Here is another SMASH video, of course sped up for viewer's enjoyment. ;) A double layout this time!

Take a peek at another mini book page, at Helmar today. This one is from Amy Tangerine's American Craft's mini book. Go here to check it out!

Liz said...: thanks for the chance to win. I love the "It happened this year" pack.

New follower to your blog..which is beautiful...following My Memories

Also, Liz is the winner of the giveaway below for the Memories Suite v.2 software! Contact me at createoften{at}gmail{dot}com!

Create Well: Having one of "those" days? Just create.

Red SMASH Book Page

2011-10-29T14:25:00.000-07:00

I couldn't help but SMASH all afternoon. It was the perfect day to. It was windy and the leaves were flying by my craft room window. It was lovely. ;)

I set up the camera and just hit record. For your viewing pleasure, I fast forward the video. ;)

Create Well: Spend a cold, windy day inside SMASHing. A cup of coffee would be well deserved too.

Create Well Sponsor - My Memories Digital Scrapbooking

2011-10-25T20:44:00.000-07:00

I don't know how many times I have just wanted to quickly get a layout done digitally. Photoshop can be just as time consuming as a paper layout sometimes. Our sponsor for this month is My Memories Digital Scrapbooking. I was shocked at how easy it was to create with their digital scrapbooking software, My Memories Suite, especially the first time! This is a program that you can use if you don't own Photoshop. It is perfect for the new digital scrapbooker or one who may want to save time too.

I was sure that with my style being unique, that I wouldn't find embellishments or titles that would suit me. Boy, was I wrong! Their product that comes with the software is classy. Also, you can go to their store and purchase kits for the software just like any other digital scrapbooking store.

Here is the first layout I created and it only took me twenty minutes (that is including the time it took me to learn the program and looking at all the goodies it came with!).

Just for Create Often readers, My Memories is giving $10 off the software. Copy and paste the code STMMMS44496 to receive $10 off your My Memories Suite v2 purchase (which will make it only $29.97!). Go here to find the software.

In addition, My Memories is also giving a copy of their software, My Memories Suite v2 away! All you need to do is to go to their website and come back to comment and tell me what is your favorite kit is! You can also have another chance to win if you like them on Facebook! Just make sure you come back and comment that you have liked them on Facebook to get the extra entry to win! Also, you can find another promo code on Facebook that you might want to use in their store too! ;)

Create Well: Save some time. Create digitally.

Anthro-Inspired Necklace

2011-10-24T12:00:00.000-07:00

Last year, at about this time, my husband gave me the sweetest birthday present. A gift card to my favorite store, Anthropologie. {What a sweetheart!} I got a beautiful necklace and later thought, "I wonder if I can make something like it?" My sister asked me to make one last year for a friend's birthday present. I sewed it with linen fabric and it was quite the chore! I was not excited to try it again until last week.

This time it was a no-sew project! It was much easier and I would be thrilled to make a few more. This is how I created it...

Supplies:

1 XL (or larger) t-shirt recycled or new

Helmar's 450 Quick Dry Adhesive

Tim Holtz' Sizzix Distressed Flower Diecut

wooden beads

thin yarn in the same color as t-shirt

sharp yarn needle

Cut the hem off the bottom of the t-shirt. Cut about two inches off the bottom of the t-shirt. Now you have a small strip. Pull on it so the edges curl. Begin in the middle of the strip. Tie a knot. Put a wooden bead in the fabric and squeeze Helmar's 450 Quick Dry on the bead and quickly fold over the fabric to cover the bead. Next, tie a knot pulling it close to the bead. Repeat the steps until you have the desired amount of beads. I used nine.

Use your die cut machine and cut out flowers from the rest of the t-shirt. Layer three flowers on top of each other and sew them with the yarn to the necklace. I layered mine above one side of the beads, but you could place yours where you like.

Tie it around your neck in a bow.

I can't wait start creating a few more of these for Christmas this year. The glue dries so fast that I was wearing this necklace the moment I finished making it! Lovely!

Create Well: Tried something once and it didn't go so well? Come at it again a different way and it may work!

Charmed, I'm Sure

2011-10-23T18:26:00.000-07:00

How easy is this project?!

Use Stazon ink to stamp an image on white shrink film. The more detailed stamp you use the better. Then, punch with a large circle punch (it will shrink half it's size). Punch a hole at the top.

Put your circle in a container, I use a Rubbermaid dish washing bucket. Then use your heat embossing gun to heat the circle (keep the heat gun moving so it doesn't burn your project). It will shrink before your eyes. If it needs flattening, use a spatula before it cools. Add a jump ring and dog chain.

I will be keeping these for gift toppers this Christmas! I also like to keep little gifts in my purse for those random acts of kindness for the season. {I love it}...

Create Well: It never hurt anyone to get a head start. ;)

Craft Warehouse - Season's Greetings Photo Card

2011-10-21T11:02:00.000-07:00

I have been brain storming a photo shoot for our Christmas cards. This year I want to finally get them made and actually sent out! Ha! Last year, they were printed and never sent out... so sad!

This photo card would be perfect for close family or friends. If I got a card like this, I would save it all year long! My sister, Becca, took this photo of my sister, Deborah, and brother-in-law, Matthew.

I love this photo. When I create Christmas cards with photos I want the one receiving it to want to keep the photo all year long. So, I am thinking of something not too "holiday-ish" but more like a family portrait. I also like to have the photo remove-able so that they can put it in their wallet or on their fridge if they like. Of course, this card was for display at Craft Warehouse and needed lots of adhesive.

I have asked for two things this coming birthday. {Birthdays are special, aren't they?}

1. To have my computer set up in our new home. Editing bites on a laptop in a recliner. ;)

2. To have family portraits done by another photographer. ;) It's no fun setting up the tripod and timer. ;)

What suggestions do you have for the best photo for Christmas that someone could enjoy all year long?

Create Well: Goal. Make Christmas cards this year and actually send them out. ;)

Craft Warehouse - 'Tis the Season

2011-10-19T09:06:00.000-07:00

I can't believe Christmas is right around the corner! When I look back on the year, I realized it went way too fast and that I really haven't taken that many pictures around the house. I think I surprised myself when I went into my photo files for the year. When you have little ones, you see how fast time really goes by and how you wish you could freeze it for a little while so you can savor the sweet moments.

The Craft Warehouse design team got a head start for the season and created some cards with Jillibean Soup...

This card was my designer's choice. I embossed the white background to give it some texture. This card is so simple... but so... me! I had fun playing with the diecuts and paper that it felt more like a mini page in my journal than a card. But, isn't that what art is all about? Having fun being yourself!

Create Well: Be yourself.

Smash Book - Hello Friend

2011-10-07T08:14:00.000-07:00

Fall is in full swing here. This week I felt like I wanted to go and do fall-ish things with my four year old son. Alas, plans change quickly around here. Instead we were at the doctor's removing a Lego wrench from his nose. For crying out loud! What was he trying to fix up there?!

Stickers: Amy Tangerine with American Crafts;

luggage label stickers and tag (manufacture unknown),

paper by Fancy Pants,

postcard with photos by Evans Photography

So, with all the adventures we have had this week from home, I needed to create! After the family was asleep, I was able to work on some guest designer projects for next month. It felt good to get working again. (I was beginning to have the artist itch and twitch). You know the kind?

Create Well: Having a hard day? Get your hands dirty and create!

Guest Designer - Jaszmurka

2011-10-06T08:42:00.000-07:00

Jaszmurka just rocks my artistic world! She is this week's guest designer! This free spirited scrapbooker and mixed media artist designs for I {lowe} Scrap, Scrap2Mers, and Kits de Somni. I am wishing I was Polish or could at least speak Polish so I can learn more from her. ;) Good thing for blogger translation widgets. ;) Here is what Jaszmurka had to say...

How would you describe your scrapbooking style? What makes your style your own?

My scrapbooking style? I think that clean & simple describes me the best :) I can't use too many thing at my work. I just can't ;)

What inspires you to be creative?

Life. Music. Fresh air. I love to be surrounded by the creative people- they inspires me the most! :)

Who are your favorite scrapbook designers and why?

I really love Polish artists- they are so creative! (Anna-Maria, Nulka, Gunia and many many more).
My fav artist is Bea Mahan- I love everything she makes :)

What are your favorite color combination to design with right now?

oh well... right now I probably like the most grey, mustard, white. I like cold tones-and just a little bit of color :)

What is your creative process?

Without music I can't start do anything. So first:music. Then I start to touch my craft supplies, I'm trying to feel them and listen to them (I know that this sounds crazy but this is true :) ). When something caught my eye for a moment- I know that I should use it. Right here, right now.

What is your story that you are trying to tell? How can this inspire others?

Do I inspire people? I hope so :)
I just love make something creative, try to have fun with it. Throw away my emotions from inside.
I'm telling many stories. Sometimes really random things (for example that I like pancakes) and sometimes things that are deep inside me- like fear, anger,joy.

How can you inspire others to create well?

Try to have fun with it!
Try to remember that everything you do you do for yourself, not for others...
Don't try to emulate. Create your own style!

Isn't she wonderful?! She is so inspiring that I am not going to be able to sleep tonight until I have painted taped or stitched something! You can find Jaszmurka on her scrapbooking blog, 365 journey, layout gallery, and Facebook.

Create Well: Create your own style!

Craft Warehouse - A Day at the Beach

2011-10-01T21:05:00.000-07:00

Fall is in full swing here in the Northwest. Pumpkins were picked from the garden and my lawn is decorated in leaves.

Just because a line a paper looks like fall doesn't mean you have to create a seasonal layout with it. I had these sweet photos of my son at the beach. I couldn't help but use them on this page for Craft Warehouse, using Jillibean Soup Apple Cheddar line.

I created these sand filled letters just by adding clean sand from my son's sandbox ;) Place your letters on wax paper and add liquid adhesive. Shake sand on them. Let them dry. Use tweezers and shake the excess sand off and adhere the letters to your page. Just pick up the wax paper and throw away.

I also created my own garland with faux sequins. I then hung them on the layout and glued each circle down with adhesive. The whole project was a process of layering and adding little touches here and there. I love the way it turned out...

Create Well: Adding sand from your trip to the beach to your page gives your page even more sentiment.

Evans Photography - Gone Purple

2011-09-27T13:02:00.000-07:00

As an artist, I can't help but get inspired by many things. Lately, color has been making me happy. Not sure why... maybe it is the changing of the seasons that makes me long for different colors. This week it has been purple. My dear sister-in-law, a hair stylist, helped me out by cutting and putting hair extensions in my hair. They peek out the bottom of my layers. I {love} them! It even looks great when I throw my hair in a messy bun. ;) They just poke out looking - oh so artistic. ;)

I love this tee too... it talks about "believing in art." See? I even got to use the new chair already in some photos. ;)

Create Well: Have fun this fall with a little bit of color.

Craft Warehouse - Hello Card

2011-09-26T09:17:00.000-07:00

This weekend was spent on the sofa with a warm blanket, sick, and watching P&P (the extremely long version). ;) My husband was sweet to go grocery shopping with the little one so that I could get a little peace and rest. But when they came home, my little man kept on asking me why "that lady [Mrs. Bennett] keeps crying?" He would walk by the room and look at the television and say, "That lady is crying again!" Sigh... so funny...

I created this card for Craft Warehouse with Jillibean Soup's Apple Cheddar line and a Pebbles Inc. stamp set. This would be a perfect card to send to a family member overseas or maybe a one you don't see often. Then, they can keep it as a little memento to remember you with.

I thought of my niece when I created it as she is going back to Afghanistan at the end of the week. We will miss her dearly. When I asked her what she would like us to send her overseas she said that what she really likes are photos. Photos of home, flowers, and random every day things. She said it keeps her motivated to stay focused. Isn't that what being a life artist is all about? Those everyday moments are what our family keeps close to heart.

Create Well: Remember our soldiers overseas and send them a card that may remind them of home.

Create Often Sponsor - Easy Canvas Prints

2011-09-23T10:28:00.000-07:00

So, we have lived in our new home since March and I am finally getting pictures up on my walls. I have the frames up, just no pictures in them. (Please tell me that you have been here before too...) As a photographer and scrapbook artist, it seems overwhelming to try and pick a photo, out of the million we have taken, and hang it up in our home.

Now I know what brides feel like getting 900 pictures of their wedding and then just leaving them in a shoebox or on a disc. Shocking, I know! ;) But, I was one of those brides. I got my wedding photos (shot by Jim Michael in Salem, Oregon) and was so exhausted looking at them all, not one was enlarged and hung up. Sad, but true.

In fact, I realized that when I go over to some of our clients' homes, they have more of our photos hanging on their walls than we do!

A few weeks ago, I started my traditional disc and digital backups. I then realized that I just had my wedding pictures on a disc and not digitally backed up. (Please remember to do this - often!) Wouldn't it be terrible if these were lost some how? It was then I realized that I needed to get on the ball and enlarge some of these to have in our home. When I looked at the photos again, I now only liked a hand full of photos enough to hang, which kind of narrowed it down a little. ;)

It was time to get at least one photo on a canvas from Easy Canvas Prints. It was really easy and fast to upload the photo to their site. I also loved that there was an easy to read (and right up front) place to click if you do not want your photos auto-corrected. Since I do all of my own editing, I appreciate a company that makes it easy to find this feature to click it off. I got an 8x10 to go with our cluster of frames. We got it in the mail within the week!

I have a lot of wall space in our home and it is easy to create a collection of photographs with a random frame set up like this one.

We also got this sweet chair donated to us for our photography business. How great would this chair be in the middle of a field with a cute senior sitting in it? ;) Can't wait to try it out!

This photo is during our "first look." You can read a great article about what a first look is here by Jasmine Star Photography.

The quality of the canvas is quite nice. I have been able to push these into pre-built store bought frames, but I couldn't with this one. This one might need to get professionally done. But the black sides match pretty nicely with room's decor that I might want it to stay like it is.

I got excited about at least one wall being finished in our home. ;) It is getting me motivated to finish the rest of the walls. Now, who wants to come over and help me go through all my photos and pick ones to hang? That's the hard part. ;)

Easy Canvas Prints is giving 50% off your canvas order with free shipping by becoming a fan on their Facebook page!

Create Well: Don't be shy. Hang those beautiful photos that you have captured for you to enjoy all day, every day.

Easy Canvas Prints is a sponsor of Create Well, Create Often. If you would like more information on becoming a sponsor of this blog, email me at createoften{at}gmail{dot}com.

Smash Book - Home Sweet Home

2011-09-21T10:18:00.000-07:00

This weekend we spent time moving my mum into her new apartment. She just moved from out of state. It is so nice to have her close again. She is a huge SMASH book fan. In fact, my sister and I knew the best welcome home present would be a new SMASH book (we got her the blue). Plus we got her some SMASH goodies to go along with it.

Heart, "Hello Friend", 5, Library card, and "Let's Go on an Adventure"

stickersby Amy Tangerine with American Crafts,

Popsicle border sticker by Pink Paislee,

postcard photograph and journal card by Debee Ruiz,

red border by Colorbok, doily, library pocket from

the Dollar Tree, "Home Sweet Home"

sticker by Pebbles Inc.; "Situation"

spinning sticker by K&Company; camera sticker

by Basic Grey

Then, on Sunday my sister and I went to Craft Warehouse with my mum to look around. We stayed in the SMASH book area for probably half an hour. ;) She had never seen the books in a craft store since they were all sold out in the town she lived in. So, she flipped through all the books deciding on getting the yellow next. ;)

magazine cut outs, Paris sticker (manufacture unknown), SMASH book

tissue tape by K&Company, bird diecut by Rebecca Grinder

(my sister!) and One Bright Spot,

tickets by My Mind's Eye,

"Favorites" and orange paper and Thankful sticker by Jillibean Soup,

tabs, "Makes Me Happy" arrow, and paperclip

for SMASH book by K&Company,

Soda bottle by Pink Paislee,

"Fun" sticker by Basic Grey,

camera sticker by Amy Tangerine for American Crafts,

"hot" yellow sticker by Echo Park

It feels good to be able to have another friend to craft with. Plus, I have always wanted to learn how to knit. When I asked my mum if she would teach me, she got excited. She said that it is a tradition in England (although, probably not anymore) that the mothers would teach their daughters to knit. She said it would be an honor. Wow! I was so excited that while we were at Craft Warehouse she taught me how to read a pattern, pick my yarn, and needles. I can't wait for my first lesson!

Create Well: Home is where your mum is. ;)

Love & SMASH book

2011-09-16T08:18:00.000-07:00

This week bible study started again... I also finished the book, The Seventeen Second Miracle. I honestly haven't read a fiction book where it really makes you want to become a better person. It almost could be considered non-fiction because you learn so much about becoming a better person by reading it.

Both the book and bible study is about love. The study goes through Genesis reveling God's love for us unconditionally and the novel was about loving others even if it is only seventeen seconds at a time. At the grocery store this weekend, I found myself unintentionally looking around me at the faces of those shopping. I mean, really looking. How many times have I really needed help with a bag of groceries? Or needed that person to just hold the door open for me? Or to give me a smile instead of a scowl while my son threw a fit? This week I truly want to be the one that helps and not expects help from others. Maybe if there was more love shown to those around us, those around us would be more willing to love others.

It's a theory anyway...

Amy Tangerine with American Crafts patterned paper, "Hello Friend" and

library pocket stickers,

journal cards by Debee Ruiz,Pebbles Inc. stickers, Pink Pasilee star border

sticker, orange SMASH tab and paperclip by K&Company,

tag by American Crafts,

My Minds Eye ticket, Chicago sticker (unknown manufacture),

circle diecut by Jillibean Soup,

Head over Heals fabric sticker (unknown manufacture)

Here is the video of the bible study I am doing for the next six weeks...

Pursuing God's Love: Stories from the Book of Genesis from Margaret Feinberg on Vimeo.

Create Well: Share some seventeen second love today...

Guest Designer - Jessica Fediw

2011-09-15T10:01:00.000-07:00

This week's guest designer is Jessica Fediw ! She is beautiful, creative, and her creations are a reflection of her! A lot of us can relate to her story of finding ourselves again through arts and crafts. I know you will appreciate her honesty and testimony as much as I have!

My name is Jessica Fediw and I am many things. I am a mother to two adorable little girls who are 4 years old and 6 weeks old. I am a wife to an amazing man who has brought me into the military life, as he is in the Coast Guard. We currently are living in Florida, but I am originally from Virginia. I have a blog, Happy Together, where I share what I'm currently creating and more. I work hard to share my knowledge of what I learn and create with tutorials. I also create patterns and various things here and there to put in my shop. But, all of this began when my oldest daughter was born.....

I had a very rough pregnancy and once my daughter came, it wasn't quite what I thought motherhood would be. My husband was also gone a lot for military obligations. I felt lost somewhat. One day while reading a magazine, I read about Wee Wonderfuls and checked out the blog. I had never heard of craft blogs. I was intrigued and quickly began looking for more blogs to read. I decided to start doing my own creative things. My mom gave me her sewing machine and my grandma gave me her crochet hooks. That's when my crafting journey began.

My biggest inspiration was my daughter. I started off with making little things for her. It then continued on and I slowly began to grow in my new found abilities. While my hubby was deployed, I decided to start up my own blog. I had a little dinky camera and no idea what I was doing, but I knew I had to go for it. I took a step out there to share what I create and I am so glad I did!

It has been such an outlet for me. And another good thing is I can take this wherever my husbands career takes us! I found a part of myself I didn't even know was there. I feel so passionate about creating now! It gave me a whole new view of God too, who is the ultimate Creator. I find time to do my thing when the little ones are sleeping and usually so is the husband. I put on some music and have fun! I look for inspiration everywhere. Literally. You just never know where you might be inspired.

My style varies and is a mishmash. But, I would say my ultimate style that I strive for is what I would call "Anthropologie." I just love the style and feel of that store. I like to use bright colors but I also love neutrals. When it comes to kid things I tend to go with the more bright and fun colors, but then not so much bright for house things and my clothes. I keep many journals with ideas, pictures, etc. to keep my creative juices flowing. I feel like I have so many ideas I will never get around to them all LOL :)

I feel blessed that I am able to bring inspiration all over the world with the use of the internet. I hope that others are encouraged to find more of themselves through a creative process and let it bring joy to their life and others.

Besides finding Jessica on her blog and at her store, make sure you say hello via Facebook,Twitter, Pintrest, and Flickr.

Create Well: Find more of yourself through a creative process and let it bring joy to your life and others.

Smash Book

2011-09-13T19:49:00.000-07:00

Today was the first day it felt like autumn. Although I am sad to see summer go, I can't help but look forward to my favorite time of year. The cool evenings and lovely warm layers. I have already pulled all my winter clothes from the back of the closet. I even started making new diy cowl scarves. ;)

This page just looks warm and inviting...

Tim Holtz images, Debee Ruiz journal card, Jillibean button diecut, "believe"

title $1 bin at Micheal's (old from stash), SMASH paperclip by

K&Company, and tag by Basic Grey

vintage tickets along with Jenni Bowlin tickets and vintage "e" game piece

'Wonderlust" sticker by Amy Tangerine line with American Crafts,

Jillibean butterfly diecut, magazine cut outs, game card piece

"If you had a month...", "8" die cut by Pink Paislee Daily Junque line by

House of Three

I am kind of bummed... I had bought this game probably five years ago from Goodwill. It had all of these family questions on it. I threw the game away and kept all the cards. Then, I had no clue what to do with them. The other side was ugly and some of the questions were not something I would use every day. In one of my moves I threw most of them away. But, now, when I added the few I had to some of my SMASH pages, and showed my sister, she freaked out... wondering where I got them. She explained that they would have made a great Thanksgiving game with family or even a Women's Ministry icebreaker. Boo... should have kept them.

Create Well: Sometimes hoarding supplies can be useful... five years later. ;)

Smash Book

2011-09-12T09:44:00.000-07:00

I have had a lot of questions about my SMASH book lately. One, "How big is my blue book by now?" and another, "Can you even close it with all the layers?" Am I suppose to close it? ;) Actually, it isn't too bad unless I am in the doctor's office waiting room and want to whip that bad boy out to sketch in. It is a little bulky and might draw a little more attention than I want in public.

So, to solve this problem, I bought an orange SMASH book. ;) As for the blue, I am finished adding layers but that's what is fun about it. As I SMASHed, I left all the journaling cards and white pages empty to sketch in. So, I am still pulling it off the shelf to add notes and drawings to it all the time.

When I SMASHed last weekend, I did it a little differently than the blue book. I had all my supplies out and had no plan. I just pulled items out of my stash and started cutting inspiration from magazines. I SMASHed all afternoon. I would just flip back and forth through the book and glued pieces as they fit. Here's what I came up with. (I will attempt to mention key elements I used on the page. A lot of the stash is old stuff I have been hording for a while. There is some new items I want to share with you the manufacturers of).

Fall styles from magazine, Pottery Barn clip outs from catalog, graph paper tape (manufacture unknown),

SMASH book paperclip by K&Company, Mrs. Grossman's lace sticker (super old), Pebbles Inc. stickers, ATC

vintage paper pack - under paperclip (forgot manufacture), purple flower stickers by Echo Park

"Good for the Soul" sticker by Amy Tangerine line by American Crafts, blank tickets made from paper

and Sizzix Tim Holtz ticket die, matted vintage photo, Paris sticker (old manufacture unknown)

Hair style magazine cut out, red thread, old "sassy" sticker by Basic Grey, Pebbles Inc.

flower/button stickers, pink frame by Jillibean Soup, "Enjoy the Journey" airplane sticker by

Amy Tangerine line by American Crafts, "Crazy for You" die by Colorbok scrap layout

kit, and Christmas Tradition tag by Teresa Collins

Magazine cut out, American Crafts tags and sticker, London and Paris sticker (manufacture unknown),

Amy Tangerine "You are My Favorite" sticker, SMASH Book tape by K&Company,

Date sticker by Jillibean Soup, "Snap Shot" tag by (my own sister) Rebecca

Grinder and One Bright Spot etsy shop, Paper by Cosmo Cricket and

Authentique

SMASH book page tabs and "Do not Forget" tab by K&Company, Stickers by Pebbles Inc.,

"Dream Big" and pink frame sticker by Amy Tangerine line by American Crafts, small

pink flower by Dear Lizzy by American Crafts, Please... tag by Basic Grey, Popsicle

sticker by Pink Pasilee, Hoover Dam sticker (manufacture unknown), Colorbok

scallop diecut from scrapbook layout kit, date tag by (my own sister)

Rebecca Grinder of One Bright Spot etsy store, blue library pocket from

The Dollar Tree, # 4 (manufacture unknown)

Vintage flash card (sticking out of top), Inspire Lovely postcard by Debee Ruiz (who by the

way ROCKS!) ;), SMASH book paperclip and tape by K&Company, Europe

and New York sticker (manufacture unknown), "Wish You Were Here" suitcase

and doily sticker Amy Tangerine by American Crafts, vintage tickets, journal cards by Basic Grey,

and Colorbok scallop diecut from scrapbook layout kit

I loved the Gwyneth Paltrow "negative strips" photos in a recent fashion magazine I had and it reminded me of the negative strip that has been in my stash FOREVER. So, I added it to my book and now I want to do a photo shoot inspired by this page so bad...

Magazine cut out of Gwyneth Paltrow, negative strip (manufacture unknown), "Party Dress"

stamp by Unity Stamp Co., State Fair tickets, SMASH book paper clip by K&Company,

doily, embossed cardstock by Bazzill Basics

I look forward to sharing even more pages tomorrow!

Create Well: Be inspired by magazines. De-clutter your book shelves; cut out pages you like and SMASH it!

Guest Designer - Jamie Pate

2011-09-07T18:52:00.000-07:00

Welcome back to Create Often's weekly guest designer feature! I am honored to have the talented Jamie Pate share her work with us. She is well rounded in paper crafts and card making. Jamie's style is one after my own heart, free-spirited with a touch of femininity. Jamie designs for Rhonna Designs and Work in Progress Kits.

Hi! My name is Jamie Pate. I am wife of one, mother of five, daughter of two, sister to one, and friends with many. I love the paper crafts world and have been involved deeply since 1997. I was raised in southern California, but currently call Colorado home. I love the beach, however the scenery here is breathtaking.

To me, telling a story starts with a photo. I am an extreme amateur photograher, but every once in a while I get lucky. This community continually keeps me inspired to become more than I think I am capable of becoming. Photography is just one of those skills I aspire too.

I consider myself a life artist that tells her story by way of scrapbook layout, mini book, art journal, or even a card to inspire a friend, just to name a few. There are so many stories to tell in life. I don’t try to stay caught up. I just try to tell them when they happen so I don’t forget when they have passed.

How would you describe your scrapbooking style?

I think my style changes with me all the time. The story that is being told dictates the style of the project. With my boys, usually, but not always, I maintain a bit more of a graphic and straight line approach. With the girls, I tend toward the shabby-beautiful. I love to add flowers, butterflies and seam binding and show a bit more of the female side of them when I tell their story. A tinge of vintage will show up here and there as well. So I am not sure one could really nail down my scrapbook style. I do know this, I attempt to be me and stay true to what I love and make that my style. A constant pursuit of what speaks to me would be considered my style.

What inspires you to be creative?

Other life artists inspire me to be creative. I can get lost on pinterest, flickr, and the endless inspiration found on so many fabulous blogs. These women have such insight to what is beautiful about life. It can be the journaling, the photography, the layout composition...any combination of those things can send me reeling with ideas.

Who are your favorite scrapbook designers and why?

There is so much talent in this community. It overwhelms me. Just look at Jen's guest host list. Why she asked me on here is beyond my comprehension. That said, my favorite designers tend to be the one's I have made come sort of personal connection with.

Alexandra has such insight into her stories and attention to the details of her art.

Becky Novacek's photography blows me away. Her way with decorating with her art is very inspiring as well.

Debee Campos' artsty style, photography, and product line have an influence on me even though we do not share the same style.

And Rhonna...I have followed her for years and years and years. Her word art alone compells one to go forth and be amazing.

And last but never least, Ali Edwards continues to teach me how to tell a story, how keep it simple, and how to tell the simplity of the story.

What are your favorite color combinations to design with right now?

I have always loved Kraft cardstock. Use it ALOT. Teal is finding it's way into alot of my work currently...and add grey to that teal...it simply pops!

What is your creative process?

This is not an easy question to answer. I am a very visual person. If I see something it can set the mind in motion and that is where the foundation of the next project comes from. It can be word art, a photo I captured of my kids, a color, or the need to use up my stash! Seriously...each of these and more can set the process to work. I am always looking for the beauty in my day. It can be a hard discipline. But the more I attain to this, the more creative I become. This also includes the process of being creative often. Finding little niches of time, if that is all one has, to do something. When I am consistently in the process, the more creative I am.

What is your story that you are trying to tell? How can this inspire others?

The story of life. That may sound like a cliche. Not trying to answer it like that. But the only thing I know is what is around me. Although we each have our own 'thing' going on, alot of our everyday life resonates with each other. I am talking about life artists here. We want to remember our stories, because if we don't write them down, or document them, or put them out for all to see, we will forget what makes this life the beautiful thing that it is. That does not mean we ignore the struggles and trials we all endure, because those are always going to be there. So I hope the story I am trying to tell, is to celebrate what is good, and lovely, and include it with the real. And that to me is the story of life.

How can you inspire others to create well?

I think I do this by being real. By putting myself out there. It's a very hard thing for me to do. I can be very private...but people respond to openess. Honesty. Reality. I get the best comments when I am just me. I don't really think I have that much to share. But I love what I do in this creative world. It continues to be a passion of mine. I don't get the time I would love to have to endlessly create. Few of us do. So I try to capture what is important to me, and share that. One can aspire to create well by simply being who they were made to be and pursing that completely.

Doesn't she {ROCK}? You can find Jamie on her lovely blog, On Today; follow her at Flickr and Twitter.

Create Well: Celebrate what is good, lovely, and include it with the real. That is the story of life.

Craft Warehouse & SMASH blog

2011-09-07T07:38:00.000-07:00

For Craft Warehouse's Labor Day Sale, my sister and I went in to check out the goodies. ;) I got a lovely pink SMASH book and I have no idea what my sister bought. lol... I was just excited to use the coupon in the ad. ;) Of course I got some of Amy Tangerine's new line by American Crafts and I was super happy. ;) I went home and started SMASHing and I realized I hadn't really looked at the ad. So, I did and I was surprised that three of my projects were featured (on page 6). Then I laughed, cause, I had no idea. I was excited about the coupon ;)

I have been SMASHing all weekend and am excited to show you new pages. In the meantime, I wanted to share that K&Company is sharing more of my pages on their blog today, here. (Yippie!)

Create Well: Get SMASHed! ;)

Dreams

2011-08-31T07:37:00.000-07:00

It is amazing how fast summer flew by. We were on vacation for the last week and a half and it was bliss... I can't wait to share pictures! In the meantime, here is a sweet card I made. Look how cute the dresses are (from Dear Lizzy by American Crafts)! I added tulle to the back of them to make them even more realistic.

What are your dreams? When I was younger they were less defined and maybe not even attainable. Now, I feel like I have accomplished some of them, but they are more real and some of them have even come true just not in the way I thought they would. Some give up on their dreams, but, I believe the desires of our heart is what keeps us going day by day. Don't give up! God gives us those passions for a reason and He will not disappoint as you trust in Him to help them be fulfilled!

Create Well: Do a layout or a project to remind you of your dreams!

Molly Mo's Antique Faire Sneak Peek

2011-08-24T00:11:00.000-07:00

This weekend my husband and I celebrated our seventh wedding anniversary! To start the celebration, my husband encouraged me to get inspired before our weekend camping trip by photographing my dear friend, Diane, and her Molly Mo's Antique Faire.

This is my third time to photograph this event and it never disappoints! Of course, my sister assisted this year again. She is the best helper ever! Plus, she made me coffee at the crack of dawn because that's what time we got there to shoot the various vendors' booths before opening!

Here are just a few of my favorite finds...

Look at the old photos and mirror next to the hand by Shabby to Chic Designs...

I have no clue what was in these jars but it was so inviting and made a beautiful black and white photo... the bucket filled with ice and the jars made a perfect country photo by The Farrier's Daughter.

Suitcases were popular with the vendors like Roost Reimagined. I know why too... customers like them. Guess who got two new ones for future photo shoots? ;) Yours truly...

Martha from Vintage Trifles, surprises me every year with her altered pieces. Look at this lace crown... just gorgeous...

Look at these altered necklaces from Auntie Joy. I love the one with the handmade nest on it. Every year she pushes her talent further.

Carol Curtis Quilts and Whatevers out did themselves with their color pallet this year. They were into neutrals and ruffles... It was enough to keep this artist awake at night dreaming about muslin flowers and ruffled skirts.

There were a few new vendors to photograph, one being Christine of Christine Marie Studio. She also had handmade jewelry. I love the "I'll Fly Away" bracelet. It reminds me of the old hymn.

Of course the lovely treats from Cafe Venae were there again. Although, I don't remember seeing these sweet cupcakes until this year. Yum!

I took hundreds of pictures and can't wait to share some more as I go through the editing process. I have come to love seeing these vendors every year. They make me smile and inspire us with their beautiful things.

Create Well: Be inspired by beautiful things.

Smash Book

2011-08-19T18:48:00.000-07:00

I thought I would share some more SMASH pages that I have completed. I leave spaces to add journaling later when I have time or something to right about. ;)

I found a box in storage with some of my handmade embellishments from when Becca and I had our shop, One Bright Spot, open. It felt good to add some to my SMASH book. It seems more personal, more me, with my own designs on the page. It feels inspiring. It brings back the early memories of designing and creating new and unique items. A good feeling...

Now my book is bursting but I don't mind. Although it might look funny pulling it out at the park to jot down a quick thought. Hmmm, might need to rethink this... ;)

Create Well: What personal touches can you add to your next project?

Happy Couple

2011-08-18T15:49:00.000-07:00

So I thought it would be nice to make a video of my scrapbooking process. I use to love watching hybrid scrapbooker Michelle Filo create via video. So, pretty much I got this idea from her, like two years ago, lol... So, I set up the camera and just recorded the process. Sometimes I am more prepared for a layout but this time I wasn't. I just knew I needed to get my scrap club's challenge layout done and turned in this week, so why not record it too?

Craft Warehouse gave the club members the kit (for free mind you!) and we had to make a page using a lot of the kit. I wanted to add a little more color to mine and started going through my stash to add a bit more. Plus, I am still trying to pile it on my pages right now to use more of my stash. ;)

Create Well: How do you create? Are you organized? Do you make a sketch or page plan? Do a layout or journal about your creative process.

Evans Photography - Molly Mo's Antique Faire

2011-08-17T12:26:00.000-07:00

I am super excited for this weekend! This will be my third year photographing this event! If you are into shabby chic, handmade goods, vintage inspired jewelry, altered art, vintage fabrics, or garden decor (or maybe all of the above) you won't want to miss it! I am there before the crack of dawn photographing all the beautiful things. Sometimes by the time the faire opens and I go back around to the booths the beautiful things have gone on to new homes. My advice is the earlier you come the better! ;)

I am also excited about this cute promo postcard that Molly Mo's used for the show. ;) Probably cause my husband took it. ;)

Hope to see you there!

Life's No Walk in the Park so Enjoy the Road

2011-08-16T10:25:00.001-07:00

Life's No Walk in the Park so Enjoy the Road, originally uploaded by createoften.

I had so much fun with this layout... The colors were fun and I couldn't help but make the embellishments pop!

My husband just took this photo of me... I have noticed that this summer I have been doing more video footage of our family than photo taking. I need to fix this! My son woke up yesterday and he looked like he grew overnight. Can that really happen? It shocks you into the reality that life goes so fast.

Don't you remember when you were in school that time took forever? Now, time flies past at a blink of an eye. I ran into a student and parent in the store the other day... Her son was in my preschool class and now is going into the third grade. CRAZY!

I don't want to miss out on those moments that are so fleeting...

Create Well: Take the time to capture your little ones. They won't be little for long.

Be Unique

2011-08-12T13:28:00.001-07:00

Be Unique, originally uploaded by createoften.

Have you ever been in the process of creating and just stopped to scream, "I love art!" There have been a few projects where I have done that. Yes, one time in the middle of a crop. Everyone had a good laugh. But, I didn't mind. Art is suppose to be fun, right?! This is one of those layouts that I had to scream out loud as I was making it.

Layering can be fun. That's one of my favorite style techniques. I just go with it and build on top of the original design. I usually start with a sketch but I love that I can go back to the sketch over and over again, since by the time I am finished the layout has morphed into layered-goodness that the only similarity is the photo placement.

I love this photo. This darling suitcase finally made an appearance in a photo; I have had it almost a year. Plus, the field was a perfect place to capture this dreamy effect. Sad that I can't use it again this summer. It was mowed down three days after I shot this photo. I wanted to take some photos of my son playing in the field. :( Now I will have to find another...

Create Well: Take time to enjoy the process... that's what art is all about!

Bliss

2011-08-09T20:32:00.000-07:00

I forgot how much I love family preservation... We had our family reunion on Sunday. It was a year since my family's history album was handed out to family. You can find the album here. Seeing family again and talking about old stories got me excited to work on more family projects. Old letters have been found this year and it would be lovely to have them scanned and digitally preserved. My mind is whirling with ideas.

Do you ever scrap-lift yourself? Well, I did. ;) I couldn't help doing this design again. I used the precious wallets of my niece and then sent the extras to her mom and grandma. Sometimes it feels good to create an all girl layout. It keeps this girl, who is in an all boy home, happy.

Create Well: Feel stumped? Pick up your album and find a past layout you love and scrap-lift it.

Evans Photography - Sullivan Family

2011-08-02T14:33:00.000-07:00

We were honored to photograph this darling family Sunday afternoon. I have to be honest, when I talked to my mother about my infancy, she said my sister and I never cried and were happy all the time. I thought, "Yeah, right! There is no such thing!"

The Sullivan family proved me wrong! I am not kidding. Their seven month old smiled when Dave asked and never fussed once! She was the perfect little girl. I mean, look at her! Isn't she precious?

Watch out! Little girls like this one can get mothers wanting another baby quick! ;) Look at those teeth! {Sigh!} Thank you little Isabel for making our job easier!

SMASH Book Winner!

2011-08-02T08:28:00.000-07:00

Supplies - Pattern Paper: Pebbles Inc. and American Crafts;

Stamp: Unity Stamp Company; Diecut: Tim Holtz with Sizzix; and

Ink: Versafine and Tim Hotz with Ranger Inc.

Thanks for all the sweet comments on my faith blog post! The winner of the SMASH book picked by Random.org is

McVic said...
found you on FB!!
kacee
youhadmeatscrap.blogspot.com

Paper Tree House God's Promises Faith Blog Hop

2011-07-28T00:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the God's Promises Faith Blog Hop! If you arrived here from Susan's beautiful blog you are in the right place. If you just arrived at my blog, you should go to Paper Tree House Studio in order to start at the beginning. Every month a group of brave women get together to showcase the Glory of God. This month we want to showcase His faithfulness during trying times, so kick back, relax and let the Lord touch your heart with His Truth!

During the hop you will find many chances to win prizes! All you have to do to be considered for one of those prizes is leave a comment and become a follower of the blogs you will hop through. For the Grand Prizes , make sure to leave a comment, become a follower, and "LIKE" Paper Tree House on Facebook. This will allow you to find out about future hops we will be having.

Check out Paper Tree House for the list of grand prizes they will be giving away!

"I remember the days of long ago; I meditate on all your works and consider what your hands have done." Psalm 143:5

It is easy to forget what promises God has already fulfilled in our lives when we are going through the storm of today. I was encouraged and reminded of the miracles in my life lately. I felt it was a good time to share a little of my testimony. Maybe it will encourage those that are going through the same struggle now.

I am not sure why I said yes and married him. I saw signs of unhealthiness but didn't listen to my instinct. I was in, what I thought was, love. Why God let me marry I am not sure. I remember praying about His will. Maybe His will was for me to grow closer to Him instead. But I was selfish.

It was five years later that I grew closer to the Lord. I started serving Him with my whole heart. Then, it seemed, as if my whole life turned upside down. I was angry that he cheated, left, and my life started to spin out of control. This is quite hard to write. Not because it is painful, but I don't want it to look like a sob story. It isn't.

God had a better plan. He helped me see that I wasn't alone. I had Him to get through the pain.

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." Matthew 11:28-29

So, I focused on Him and not on myself. When I gave the problem to God he gave me such peace that is indescribable. He gave me, most importantly, forgiveness in my heart.

"Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you." 1 Peter 5:7

I realized that I didn't need a man to make me whole. I needed to love God and learn to love myself for what He created me to be. I had a purpose and served in ministry. I was needed by God, the children in my classroom where I taught, my family, and friends. Life was good again.

"The Lord is good to all; he has compassion on all he has made." Psalms 145:8-9

It was about two years later that I began to pray for someone special to come into my life. My heart was ready. But, mind you, I was picky. I didn't know where I was going to find anyone with my long list of qualifications. I only worked, went to church, and spent my time at home. God heard my prayers...

"Praise be to God, who has not rejected my prayer or withheld his love from me." Psalm 66:20

Dave came to the school where I worked to "check out" this girl he was told that he had to meet. So, he volunteered in his friend's daughter's classroom party. So, as he held a closed garbage bag filled with balloons in the hallway, he took a peek through the window of the classroom that I was teaching in. A teacher walked by and said, "Hi! You must be the new janitor! Nice to meet you...," as she continued to introduce herself. (Ha! That make me laugh so hard!)

I guess Dave decided I was worth working for. Did I know that Dave was there at school? No. It wasn't until I was practically forced to give my number to a friend so she could give it to Dave. We went out on a blind date and the rest is not "history" but a dream come true. An answer to prayer. A promise that God loves me.

"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give your hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and find me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me...

That was almost seven years ago. God has redeemed me many times over. This is just one of the perfect examples of His love for me. Dave is much more than my husband or friend, he is a daily reminder to me that God answers prayer and keeps His promises.

When you seek me with all your heart I will be found by you." Jeremiah 29:11-14

I keep these verses in what I call my "truth" journal. It is a small composition book I keep with me always with verses to remind me of the love God has for me. A SMASH book is another great way to keep your "truths".

To win a black SMASH book (yes, girls, I am giving away the above hard-to-find SMASH book!) post a comment in this blog OR/AND become a follower of this blog, become a friend on Facebook, become a Twitter follower, post on your Facebook page or blog about this giveaway. Make sure you copy and paste a link to your blog if you post about this giveaway in the comments. That's six times you can comment on this post to win!

I hope this post blessed those that might be going through the same trials. Realize that you are not alone; most importantly remember God's promises!

Don't forget to enter to win Paper Tree House's giveaways too! Now, it's time to go to Candy's blog, Sweet Stamper.

Create Well: "I remember the days of long ago; I meditate on all your works and consider what your hands have done." Psalm 143:5

What The?

2011-07-27T17:33:00.000-07:00

It feels good to get some pages for my personal album done. These pictures are from Easter! Again, the challenge has been to use as much as my stash as possible.

My little man was diagnosed with food allergies after his first birthday. A few days before Easter we found out that he wasn't allergic any longer. What fun Easter was. We totally spoiled him. ;) In the picture above we let him have some candy and his cheeks were filled. Of course, we regretted the sugar high that came afterwards but the memory was special and we won't forget it.

Create Well: Capture a moment worth not forgetting!

Guest Designer - Tea Rose Home

2011-07-23T09:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome back to Create Often's guest designer feature! This summer I have been working on several projects that I wouldn't normally get done during the winter season. I hope you are taking the time to create for yourself this summer! Sachiko, from Tea Rose Home, has been inspiring me to get out there and create more projects to enjoy everyday. She is like one of those super women that can do it all. ;) But, the best part is that she is humble and doesn't even think of herself as "super". She shares her blessed gifts online, which then encourages us to also be creative. She is the definition of "creative" and is why I chose her to be my fiftieth guest designer for Create Often!

Hi everyone, I am Sachiko from Tea Rose Home. I want to say thank you to Jen for inviting me to her place today to "meet" Create Often readers. :)

Tea Rose Home is where I share my designing, sewing, crafting, cooking and a little bit about my life. I LOVE anything to do with to being creative; I can't decide on just one thing! Here are some examples of what I mean...

I do clothes repurposing... To some people, my style is feminine because of the ruffle shirts that I have done, but I love all sorts of different styles. (I think I am more known for this than anything else).
Here is my most favorite ruffle shirt.

I make quilts...

I love making felt foods...

I do make jewelries once in a while...

I love giving second life to plain old baskets...

I love thrifting and refinishing furniture... I put our old cabinet ($5 thrift store find) and a thrift store find shelf together to create a completely new piece of furniture.

There was a time that I gave a $2 yard sale find ugly chair a new life...

Being in LOVE with food, I love to cook and experiment too...

I know I am all over the place, but I must say my heart belongs to sewing and quilting. My mother told me that I started sewing (started stubbing fabrics) at age two. As long as I can remember I have been in love with fabrics. Going to fabric stores is like being a kid in a candy store, touching them, trying to come up with different combinations and such make me so happy and it is so therapeutic.

Occasionally, I sit down to really work on designing (that is a luxury for a BUSY mom of three) but most of my ideas pop into my head, when I am doing house work, driving my kids to places, and such. That's why I always carry around a little notebook, so I won't forget the new design ideas.

As I mentioned earlier, I love and appreciate different design styles, but my root is classic, relaxed and simple styles; although, I do like to mix and match. White with colors, old and new, classic with some modern twist... it doesn't matter what I am working on, it is important for me to be open minded, and always being curious to keep the creative juices flowing in my head.

I love being a mom. To me, the most important thing in the whole world is to teach, love and raise my children. Although, making some time for myself to be creative actually helps me to be a better mom.

Ever since I was a little girl, I dreamed of being a designer. Life had different plans for me and I haven't become a famous designer yet, but doing what I love to do makes me happy and keeps me connected to who I am. That is one of the things that I want to pass on to my kids... find what you love and stick to it to make our life more joyous and meaningful. Sharing that joy with others (in my case mostly through blogging) magnifies the joy by 10 times more if not 100 times more.

You see, just like I am here visiting you all right now... :)

I hope you will come visit me sometime to see what I am up to or at my weekly Wednesday link parties (remember? Sharing what you created makes you happy).

Thank you all for having me, and listening to my ramblings. I hope you all have a fabulous summer!

You can also find Sachiko at her etsy shop, Tea Rose Company and make sure to join her every Wednesday Link Parties!

Create Well: Love to do makes you happy and keep connected to who you are.

Craft Warehouse - Mini Top Hat Tutorial

2011-07-19T20:35:00.000-07:00

Go to the Craft Warehouse Blog where I am featured this week! I did a video tutorial on how to create these darling mini top hats!

Check it out and leave some love! ;)

Craft Warehouse - Capture It

2011-07-18T17:06:00.000-07:00

So, we were suppose to be on the beach right now soaking up some vacation rays, while my son dug a hole to China in the sand. Our trip was cut short since it started to rain. The weather changes so fast here! We were happy to come home early and spend the rest of our vacation in our own bed though.

I think it is important to capture pictures of ourselves (the good, the bad, and the ugly). I try to keep it real, but I will be honest, sometimes it is hard. Those hard days can get buried under the good ones. I am trying to encourage myself that life is life. It is good to capture the lovely along with the hard.

This layout is for Craft Warehouse. I thought it would be a good layout to share with those that might not usually scrap themselves. I know several people in our local scrap club that don't scrapbook too much because they don't have children or get tired of scrapbooking their pets. This is an art where that doesn't matter. I encourage you to have fun scrapbooking life. Journal about what makes you happy, sad, frustrated, and have fun doing it! Think of it like journaling instead of scrapbooking.

Create Well: Scrapbook yourself whether life today is good, bad, or ugly.

Craft Warehouse - Teaser

2011-07-13T20:59:00.000-07:00

I have a special Craft Warehouse assignment this month where I will be sharing what I have been up to this week! I have been tediously creating four amazing projects for an upcoming blog post later in the month. I will let you know when the blog post goes live on the Craft Warehouse site. But, in the meantime, here is a little teaser...

Create Well: A bit of a tease never hurt anyone. ;)

Craft Warehouse - Four Things That Make You Happy

2011-07-12T08:37:00.000-07:00

My sister took these photos and I had them cut to the size I wanted. I thought it would be a good idea to ask these four family members what made them "happy." Of course I got emails back from them asking, "Only one thing?" It was nice not to have to think about the journaling on this layout. It is good to let someone else tell their story for once. ;)

My sister, Becca, said, "Adventures." She wrote up this long and sweet description of why the "adventures" in life make her happy... but, honestly, I only had room for "adventures". Ha! So, when I re-do this layout I will put her email on the back of the layout to document it for myself.

I said, "Family." My little man said, "Playing with you." Awww! Super sweet!

My dear like-a-sister friend, Sarah, said, "Only one? Family. Chocolate. A good book, in that order." Ha! Make me laugh! So, after all, I couldn't get just one thing. Isn't that a good thing? We should think about what makes us happy more often. We will realize that we can't just narrow it down to just one. That's the way it should be...

Create Well: "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things." Philippians 4:8

Craft Warehouse - Bright Card

2011-07-11T20:20:00.000-07:00

I have never been a card maker. I felt like that my sister was the card maker and if I ever wanted one made, I could go to her. Ha! Plus, the space to create a card is so small. I am afraid of small spaces. You know, cards fall in the same category as walk in closets, closed doors, small and crowded aisles in the grocery store.

It seemed like this Unity stamp was made for me, though. It is a circle. I thought, "I can handle a circle. Circles are friendly..." ;) Ok, all kidding aside, I loved making this simple clean card. I loved it so much that I made twelve cards this weekend! {My sister is going to fall out of her chair when she hears that!} I actually loved it too. Isn't that what it's all about?

This card was for Craft Warehouse, using Authentiques debut line. Their product was such a hit in our local Craft Warehouse that it is almost sold out within two weeks! I have two more projects with this paper to share with you, so stay tuned in this week to see them!

Create Well: Art isn't what defines you. Art is what brings you joy when you define it.

Keep Faith

2011-07-07T12:10:00.000-07:00

Summer means...

Cool mornings and warm days. Picnics. Barbecues and dinner outside. Wearing shorts around the house. Flowers blooming. Laying on a blanket in the backyard. Water sprinklers and getting wet. Relaxing as a family. Taking the afternoons to just play.

I have been able to do some creating for myself and my family. This layout is saved for someone special and I am going to put it in a shadowbox frame. The paper is like fabric and it was so much to play with. I was able to make six layouts yesterday! {I think that is a new record!}

Create Well: Take time to play.

Craft Warehouse - Fly

2011-07-06T08:35:00.000-07:00

Mixed media canvas is one of my favorite things to create. This one was a challenge, though, since it was only 4x4. ;) I tend to over think small spaces. Give me a large space and I can give you negative space or create a unique piece of art. But, small makes me feel claustrophobic. Ha! If I was given the chance, I would have used two of these and used a hinge to create a piece that opened and I would have decorated the inside like little shadow boxes. But, alas, that wasn't the assignment. So, I had fun creating the background with Tim Holtz's tissue tape.

Here are the instructions on how I created this white wash look...

To make this white wash look, add a light coat of gel medium along the entire canvas and add a strip of designer tape. Leave this one alone. Next, add another strip of tape and then use a water mister on wax paper with a brush of gesso. Make sure there is a little bit of white thinned out paint on your brush. White wash the second strip of tape with only one or two brush strokes. For the last strip of tape, white wash three or four times. This gives the canvas dimension and you can see more of the script on the less painted tape strips.

Create Well: Use tissue tape, gesso, and a water mister to create a white wash look on your next project.

Live Laugh Love

2011-07-02T08:00:00.000-07:00

When we were in high school (being a twin, I have always used the word "we"), our french teacher use to have us decorate the bulletin board in his classroom for extra credit. I needed the extra credit. ;) I think he knew we would have done it without extra credit, but I think he felt that we put so much effort into it that he should reward us with something. I even think it was our idea. His classroom was so bare. ;) So, Becca and I decided that we were going to fill the entire board with tissue flowers. We made them multicolored. Honestly, I think I would have loved them just as much today as I did then.

I guess I have always loved tissue flowers, garland, and banners. This layout was inspired by all the photos I have been seeing with more tissue flower love. I created the flower garland with Tim Holtz's tissue tape. I just gathered the pieces in a circle and cut the tape when I liked the size I wanted. Then, I just stuck them on the page. When I liked the placement of them, I just put more adhesive on the back to make sure it stayed put.

Create Well: Create a flower a faux garland with tissue tape. Sew your "banner line" with a sewing machine or by hand and then glue on your flowers.

Craft Warehouse - Give Me Vintage

2011-06-30T09:43:00.000-07:00

I have to admit, I have a weak spot for vintage clothing. There use to be this amazing thrift store in town that got vintage clothing in bulk from San Fransisco. Sadly they closed several years ago. I still hunt for that special piece at garage sales, rummage sales, and thrift stores.

Now that we are unpacked and settled into our new home, I am unpacking storage. One box at a time. It seems to be a slow process. But, sometimes it is like Christmas. Like two weeks ago when I opened a box that was labeled, "Clothes that don't fit." ;) Well... now they do. It was like finding old friends. Vintage pieces that I hadn't worn in years.

I knew when I saw this line from Cosmo Cricket I wanted to cut up the little outfits and make this layout. I love how it turned out. It was hard cutting off the little heads of the paper dolls, but I am thankful to have another piece of paper to make cards or something with. ;)

Create Well: Create a clothes line with bakers twine. It gives the traditional line a bit of color!

Evans Photography - Baby Henry

2011-06-28T13:32:00.000-07:00

When meeting baby Henry, I saw beauty in a new way. God refreshed my memory to how small and precious a newborn really is.

Some things I saw were...

lots of kisses...

adoration...

beautiful eyes...

kissable lips... ahh, those kissable lips...

hands so small...

sleepless nights aside... they are truly a gift from God.

Welcome to the world, sweet Henry boy...

My Birthday

2011-06-23T10:35:00.000-07:00

This layout was created last week when I was scrapping four layouts in a day! I was creating like a crazy person! I love this picture of my son's birthday last year. I just hadn't scrapped it yet. This layout was perfect. Again, my goal was to use my stash!

When I was little, my mother use to wait until we went to bed on the night before our birthday and decorate the kitchen table with our presents and streamers. I now do the same with my son and he loves it. Although, I mix crepe streamers along with handmade fabric banners and paper garlands. It makes it so colorful in the house that we usually leave it up a couple of weeks. ;)

This photo is precious. Ethan's friends wrapped his present themselves. When the photo is in black and white you can see the great tape job they did... Ha! Love it!

Create Well: Make a layout including those simple traditions you may do. Remember to add where the tradition started from.

SMASH Book Part 2

2011-06-18T08:03:00.000-07:00

Embarrassing, but, when I was in high school I didn't want to have to throw away my magazines, so I created collages for my teachers. They looked a lot more proportional then because I never wanted to cover the picture much. Now, my magazines were never Teen Magazine. I loved Reminisce and those magazines that had lovely photographs in them. ;)

The funny part is that my teachers were so impressed they gave me extra credit for doing it. Funny, I got extra credit for gluing cut out magazine photos to paper and giving it to them. ;)

Create Well: Be yourself. Maybe you will get extra credit for it. ;)

Need a Blog Makeover?

2011-06-15T06:57:00.000-07:00

Everyone's blog deserves some creative love! If you are interested in a blogger blog makeover email me at createoften(at)gmail(dot)com to ask about affordable $25, $35, and $50 rates!

Here are a few of the blogs I have designed that are public...

Create Well, Create Often

Molly Mo's Antiques

People's Church Women's Ministries

My Life in a Nutshell

Daily Grind Designs

Teach Often

Declare That Which is Profitable

Take Note Simple Design

SMASH book

2011-06-14T13:24:00.000-07:00

So I have had some time to create for me. What a feeling! ;) I picked up a SMASH book at my local Craft Warehouse last week. When I started putting items inside it, I felt like I was a teenager again! I couldn't stop!
Here are some of my favorite pages.

Some other things I loved to do as a teenager: listen to Big Band music; watch classic black and white romantic comedies; paint with acrylics; read L.M. Montgomery novels along with classic literature; study hard; and watch British comedy with my family while laughing uncontrollably.

Create Well: Get back to your roots.

SMASH Book and You & Me

2011-06-08T13:18:00.000-07:00

The new SMASH books have come to Craft Warehouse and I am in {love}! K & Company has really out did themselves with an easy concept. I am excited to share some of my pages in detail but I wanted to let you know that the SMASH Blog posted some of my pages there. So take a peek!

In the meantime, I will share another layout I did last week.

The goal still is "use as much of your stash as possible." Ha! I am having fun junking up my pages and not worrying about limiting how much I put on. It is freeing and so much fun! Right now, this brilliant scrapbook layer-er (Is that a word? Ha!) is inspiring me. Her eye for color is mind boggling. ;)

Create Well: Get inspired by another artist to do something different on your next page.

In Time

2011-06-07T13:07:00.000-07:00

No one ever said parenting was easy. I have come to realize that I need to document the hardships that it brings so that I can remember what we persevered through in years to come. I don't want to forget the days that were hard (although I wouldn't mind them being a bit sweeter) because then when the days are easier, I can look back and see that all our hard work and praying paid off.

Create Well: Don't be afraid to keep it real! It's your life. It's your story...

Your Laugh

2011-06-04T18:34:00.000-07:00

I have to admit that I have the creative bug. I am not sure why. Maybe it is the anticipation of summer. (It finally showed it's face today - Yippee!) Maybe it's because I have a break in between assignments and have been enjoying creating just for me. Maybe I have too many stories to tell and I have been realizing that I need to get them down before I forget them. (I am journaling more and more)...

This layout I created for our local Scrapbook Club Challenge. They actually gave us pieces of My Mind's Eye Lime Twist to play with! I couldn't believe it! We even got a bit of baker's twine too.

I don't tell my sister enough how much she inspires me to be a better person. Do you have that one person that you can always depend on to pray for you, listen, and laugh with? I love that my sister doesn't judge me when I vent or when I just had to stuff that chocolate cupcake in my face because the temptation was too great! ;)

Create Well: Save time by having several medallions made ahead of time in the colors you use often. That way you don't need to pull out your diecut machine in the middle of your grove. ;)

Journals Plenty

2011-06-02T19:08:00.000-07:00

I love journals. It seems like I always want to sketch or write something down to remember. I got in the habit of taking one to church to take notes in about ten years ago. I remember more of what I hear if I write it down.

I made a few for Teacher's Appreciation gifts and I am just now getting to post them so you can see. ;) The teachers were so surprised and loved them, of course!

I think this line from Echo Park will never get old. I used the line for the first time on this journal. The paper sure does go a long way!

This is the same line, For the Record by Echo Park Paper Company. It looks totally different from the journal above but still has that modern, yet vintage feel.

The last journal was done with my stash...

I am going to be picking up quite a few of these composition journals during the back-to-school sales this summer and make a few of these for Christmas presents! They were fast and easy!

Create Well: Think ahead this summer and gather items on sale to create Christmas presents ahead of time. Then you can enjoy the month of December this year! ;)

Faith Blog Hop Winner!

2011-05-30T14:23:00.000-07:00

Thank you so much for all the sweet comments left this weekend! I hope you were all blessed with the all the encouraging words written through out the blog hop. I know I was!

Now for the winner of the giveway... I am so excited because I always use Random.org to pick my winners fairly and who would have thought number 1 would have been chosen!?!

Mendi said...

What a wonderful site and blog hop! I had never heard of Paper Treehouse before. I love your layout Jen! :)

May 26, 2011 10:29 AM

Yeah! Mendi, email me at createoften(at)gmail(dot)com with your shipping address so I can send you your goodies! ;)

Thanks for all the comments! You made my weekend!

Faith Blog Hop: Scouting His Word

2011-05-26T00:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome to another special Faith Blog Hop sponsored by Paper Tree House Studio! At the end of every month a group of bold women gather to give Glory to God with the talents He has given us in a very loud way... :) Our prayer is that through the projects we have created you will be able to see Him in all of His Glory! May He touch you today as we look at the theme of the Proverbs 31 Woman, and may you find that you are indeed everything He designed you to be.

This is how the hop works:

Follow the line-up and please leave some love throughout the way. Start here at Paper Tree House Studio and allow yourself to cry, laugh, smile, along with any other emotion the Lord may bring your way. If you have come from Karel, welcome!

You will find that there are many prizes throughout the hop. In order to qualify to receive them you must be a follower of the blog and you must leave a comment. Know that if you are announced as the winner of a prize you are responsible for contacting us in order for us to make the prize go your way. Make sure to check Paper Tree House Studios for the list of sponsors and a chance to win some special prizes.

Now let's get on to the hop!

There is so much heartache in this world that it is so much to bare. Then, when we look at our own lives and those of our loved ones, it seems as if the tide is coming in and there is no way out. It grieves my heart to see women struggling or hurting at times, not knowing which way to turn. Maybe that is you today. Whether you are struggling with sickness, loss, financial burdens, or struggles with their children know that God stands with you every step of the way. I wish I could tell you all of the times God has been by my side in times of pain and struggle. There has been so many times where I can say he made a miracle when there seemed to be no way. I know he will do the same for you.

God always seems to encourage at the perfect time. The last six weeks I have been involved in a bible study called, Scouting the Divine. The author Margaret Fineburg goes deeper in scripture about wine, wool, wheat, and honey. This last week we studied the vine and what it meant for the Proverbs 31 woman to plant a vineyard in verse sixteen.

“She considers a field and buys it; out of her earnings she plants a vineyard.” Proverbs 31:16

The author interviewed a vintner and asked him why did she plant a vineyard; she could have planted anything but she decided to plant grapes instead. The vintner explained that this woman was thinking long term. To plant a vineyard takes great patience and time as the first harvest isn’t seen for at least four years and then to drink its first wine is at least seven! This makes for a beautiful picture. The Proverbs 31 Woman was planting the vine for generations to come.

Jesus also reveals himself in scripture as being the vine and we are the branches.

“I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” John 15:5

When I think of this woman planting a vineyard I see her hard work planting Christ in the lives of each of her family members. Her children will be touched by her hard work and so will the lives of those around her. As her children grow, they will continue her legacy, showing Christ’s love to those they come in contact with as well. With her hard work and dedication in tending her fields, there will be a great harvest.

(layout created with Lime Twist by My Mind's Eye;

this post will be printed and placed on the back of the layout as my journaling)

Although, we really can not do this job on our own as Christ says, “Apart from me you can do nothing.” My prayer for you today, is that you are encouraged to continue the hard work God has for you today, for the harvest will be great in the days to come.

I would also like to bless you with a giveaway! Comment on this post for a chance to win this 12x12 paper kit and this stamp set of my new favorite line, Daily Junque by Pink Paislee. I will pick a random winner, Monday May 30th.

Next on the blog hop is, Kari.... Make sure to check out her lovely project and blog called, Purple Funtastick Creations.

Create Well: Be encouraged to continue the hard work God has for you today, for the harvest will be great in the days to come.

Faith Blog Hop

2011-05-25T12:51:00.000-07:00

Join me this weekend for the Faith Blog Hop! We will be inspired by Proverbs 31. I will also have a sweet giveaway on my blog for it too! Make sure to come back and check it out!

Craft Warehouse - Take Note Mini Book

2011-05-20T12:30:00.000-07:00

I promised to share some more pages of my mini book that I created during National Scrapbook Week. It really was a joy to create. The best part is that I got to keep the album for myself and it is rare that I get to keep mini albums. I love to give my stuff away. ;)

This weekend I am hosting a blog party at Craft Warehouse. Come and play to win over $250 in prizes! I would love to see you there!

Create Well: Make a mini book and keep it for yourself. Sometimes it is nice to work on something with your whole heart and treasure it. ;)

Craft Warehouse - Take Note Mini Book

2011-05-18T07:25:00.000-07:00

On National Scrapbook Day, Craft Warehouse had this AMAZING make 'n' take. Can you believe that they let you make this for free?! Although the there was a long line and some wait to create this, it was totally worth it. I helped out with the flower, tabs, and book binding.

The design of the book was a collaboration by two Craft Warehouse employees. Pretty amazing job, huh? They used Echo Park's line, For the Record.

We got to make this cute charm that hooked onto the ribbon of the book. Not only did you get a cute charm but you learn a totally new craft to create as gifts. I was given one to wear as a necklace for the weekend by the Salem staff. (They totally {ROCK}, by the way!)

I decorated my front with some paper from the line and a tiny sticker. I also added a wallet size photo. I only had a few days to finish this album and I wanted to make sure it was super simple for the ladies that came through my line. So, I challenged myself to only use photos from my phone. (I uploaded them to my local printers and did no editing to them outside of my phone). I also kept my pages simple with just straight cuts, stickers, and paper from the line.

I used all my scraps and didn't waste a bit! I also pushed myself to use only one set of alpha stickers through out the book. I hate when I run out of e's... ;)

Note to self... if you want to cut pages of your book, don't tie the knot of the ribbon holding the book together so tight! I was only able to cut the page above. ;) I like to be able to see a few of the other pages peek through.

I wanted to record some of my favorite "truths" right now. A "truth" is a scripture that I keep in a little composition book with me everywhere to help me when I am down. I open the book up and remember all of the promises he has written on my heart, just for me. ;) In this mini are a few of my favorites.

Stay tuned in for the rest of the book soon!

Create Well: Challenge yourself to use a few papers, stickers, and alphas, to create an easy mini book - just for you!

Craft Warehouse - Ruffled Apron

2011-05-15T11:35:00.001-07:00

I mentioned in my last post that we were asked to decorate our National Scrapbook Day aprons. I had a blast using this flower album die from Sizzix to create the flowers on my apron. Then I also used the same die with fabric to make a ruffled top (I am wearing it) and ruffles for the top corner of the apron. I should have been facing the other direction for my husband to take a better photo of that side of the apron, but oh well. As you can see, it was a wet and rainy day. We have seen a few of those still... ;)

I love my new shoes which I am nicknaming them my "Echo Park" shoes. ;) The make 'n' take I was helping with used Echo Park's For the Record line.So, the shoes matched perfectly!

Create Well: Don't let your creativity stop at paper...

Bring on the Party!

2011-05-14T13:55:00.000-07:00

It hasn't been quiet around here because there hasn't been anything going on. Last weekend, my sister and I were able to assist in a National Scrapbook Day make 'n' take. It was a blessing to work with so many women (I am not sure how many people went through my line. Maybe 100?) There were some women that had never scrapbooked before and left with a finished mini book ready to just put their pictures inside. I had to decorate an apron and create my own mini for display at my station. I can't wait to share them!

This week, my sister Becca, needed a photo shoot for a church event coming up. I love being able to help out with promo items for church. It is weird going around the corner of the building and seeing a poster made with the photos I have taken. ;) The above photo is my attempt to try out Martha Stewart's scoring board for the first time. I wanted a cupcake holder in the colors of the event. Of course no one can beat Debee Campos' cupcake photos. She {ROCKS} the cupcakes. Plus, hers are homemade. Mine I bought from a local grocery store's bakery. I am also using this photo for an entry in our Scrap Club at the end of the month. There is nothing better than killing two birds with one stone. ;)

I am also getting ready to teach a mixed media class at Craft Warehouse in June. Stay tuned in for more details...

I am also preparing for a HUGE Blog Party next weekend at the Craft Warehouse blog. There will be challenges and prizes Friday through Saturday... So much fun. Make sure to check it out at 8am, Friday May 20th! Make sure to check out the details at the link above!