Tammeys Tidbits

Why Scrapbook?

2012-01-21T19:11:00.000-08:00

What is scrapbooking? It's gluing photos to any old paper, right? It's putting as many doodads on a page as you can, right? It's cutting photos into odd shapes, removing people you don't like and then ignoring them, right?

Wrong. Scrapbooking is your story, your way! You determine how you want to preserve it. You write your history. You do. No one else is going to do it for you. You have to. There are so many options out there! Just do it! Pick one and go for it.

Are your photos somewhere in the closet? Stored safely on the hard drive to be dealt with later? Either way, what if there is a fire tonight? Where are your precious memories? Wasn't it just yesterday your child was newborn, snuggled in your arms and so full of promise? Wasn't it just yesterday that they were learning to walk? Write? Ride a bike? Sing, dance, or play an instrument? Wasn't it just yesterday that they were graduating? Wasn't it just....... Where did the time go?

It is a passion that God gave me at birth. I've not known what to do with it. I thought it was just for me to learn to scrapbook so I could preserve my memories. Recently though, I've come to realize, that isn't it. He made me a teacher ON purpose! He whispered in my soul a genuine love of other people's stories, of their photos, of their dreams. I am honored to use the gifts God has blessed me with to help others preserve their most precious gifts.

Don't want the clutter? Digital albums are done on the computer. Use the software, pick the template that works best for you, drop your photos right into the spaces already set up, add any embellishments you like and send to the printer! They print and bind the pages into an amazing book. Tada! A beautiful album with the stories behind them.

Like albums, but don't want to measure, cut, and try to figure out where everything goes? Try PicFolios! These wonderful, handy albums let you simply slide your pictures into the little photo safe pockets, add a little journaling and you are done! Yep, it's that easy! PLUS - as a bonus, they are 40% OFF right now!

Love the feel of paper? Want to design every page around your photos? Go for it! ALSO, now you can even design the front cover to your album! How sweet is that? Love that! Imagine your Christmas 2011 album with a family photo from Christmas 2011 right on the cover! How about a baby album, with a pic of the brand new bundle of joy as the cover!

The possibilities are endless. Need help? Need direction? Need solutions? Feel free to contact me! I would love to help.

No matter what the problem is, I'm sure we can find a solution. This is the year! Just do it!

Visit me at:
www.mycmsite.com/justdoit

Blog Candy - FREE

2012-01-16T11:44:00.000-08:00

Be sure to visit my friend Esther today! She has blog candy to give away! I LOVE her work!

Cricut for Sale!

2012-01-04T14:41:00.000-08:00

Be sure to check out this great deal from a VERY reliable seller!

http://estherscreativedesigns.blogspot.com/2012/01/for-sale-cricut-expression.html

YOUR STORY

2011-12-20T07:57:00.001-08:00

This time of year tends to make me feel very nostalgic. I think on those I've loved that are no longer here, those I've known that I no longer visit, and those that have changed me in some way or another. Most especially this time of year, I want to journal my memories and get others to do the same. It never happens. This is the busiest time of year! I have presents to buy, parties to plan and attend, school concerts, church and so much more. I think about it. I want to, I sincerely do. Yet, I don't follow through.

We are the only link the future has to our past. Oh sure, the history books will record that President Bush was in office, that President Obama did this or that and any great natural disasters that occurred. What about the events in your life? Who will record them?

With the technology available today, and at such reasonable prices, it is astonishing that so little is recorded. It is not a rule that you must spell correctly, have perfect grammar or even write it all out in whole sentences. Just write!

Take a photo of your child making cookies. How many more times will that child make cookies with you? How about a photo of Grampa sitting in his favorite chair? How many more times do you think that opportunity will come by? What was it like for him when he was growing up? What did he love? What did he regret? Does he have advice for the next generation? For you?

Take the time. MAKE time. Utilize your video camera and record a conversation with a loved one. Utilize the software out there that lets you tag and organize your photos as soon as you upload them. Take advantage of Skype and the other programs like it to converse and share with loved ones across the miles.

It doesn't have to be covered in ribbons and bows. The writing should not be perfect, it should be personal. Look back on your own past and how quickly it has gone! Tomorrow will be no different. Spend time with those you love. Record what is important. Don't wish; DO.

Busy Year

2011-07-01T13:34:00.000-07:00

I haven't had much creative energy over the last couple of years, as my followers have noticed. I would like to get back into scrapbooking again. I've taken on a couple of projects, both related to making cards. I'll be supporting a gal that wants to do a card ministry through church and participating in a craft show this fall. I'm in desperate need of card ideas!

If you have any card ideas, links, or techniques, could you please share them with me? Also, do you prefer busy or simplistic cards?

Thanks!
Tammey

Gift Idea

2010-11-19T18:38:00.000-08:00

Looking for a fantastic, heart warming gift? Have a family member that has everything and you don't know what to do? Have family members out of state or out of the country? I know just the gift! You heard the saying " A picture's worth a thousand words", well a digital album is super easy to create and will leave them speechless. The new Creative Memories Storybook software is easy to use, affordable, and comes with preloaded page layouts and elements to help even the those that have never done a page in their life, able to create beautiful albums.

Anyone that purchases from me, can contact me any time for assistance on page layout or album ideas.

Grandparents would love a brag book. An easy way to put one together is to create one two page layout for each month of the year. Simply high light one activity for that month and include photos and journaling. Once you have the album put together in the software you simply upload it and Creative Memories prints AND binds the book! TADA - a fantastic gift for generations to come.

How about a family recipe book? Or a family history book? Put together all the information on your family tree and share it with your siblings. Include photos and birthdays.

BABY GIRL quick kit (go to my site, click on SHOP/ Photo Solutions / Quick Kits / Baby Girl 12 x 12 Quick Kit. Specifications12x12 PicFolio™ Photo Album with 32 Side-Loading Sleeves 32 predecorated pages 1 sheet of clear title stickers in brown 3 sheets of die cuts with ready-to-stick foam tabs that add dimension. All of this for just $69.00!! This quick kit allows you to simply slide your photos right into the pockets and you're done!

JOURNAL JAR This is so amazing. I bought one and just love it! It is a gorgeous, sturdy, beautiful jar comes with a little notebook to journal on. Specifications: A cream-colored ceramic jar with a decorative handle A pad of 40 perforated journaling boxes held together by a sheer ribbon Features: Sheer ribbon holds an enameled charm bearing the words “Life’s Moments”. This amazing jar is JUST $12.50 (was $25!). Be sure to check it out. Wondering how to use it?

Give it to a grandparent and ask them to write one thing about themselves every day and put it in the jar.
Give it to a teen and tell them to write something good about their day. Hard to be depressed when you keep a jar of happy thoughts near you!
Watch your baby grown - write down their daily accomplishments! They grow so fast.
Tend to think of great ideas and then forget them? Write them down and throw them in the jar.
Place it on the gift table at a wedding, shower, etc and have the guests write prayers/memories etc on them and put them in the jar. Seal it up and give it to the guest of honor at a later time.

http://www.mycmsite.com/sites/justdoit

60 Day Challenge

2010-11-01T10:30:00.000-07:00

Good Morning friends! I belong to a great scrapbooking group called ScrapbookingPizzaz and Esther and I were discussing challenges. She was inspired to start a journaling challenge.

This is the challenge:
Write in your journal area that you have chosen, weather it be online, in a book, in WordPad on your pc (or in your blog). Remember it's your choice where you journal...

11/01/2010 - Todays Challenge:
Your thoughts and opinions on this topic: Everything happens for a reason, right?
I absolutely believe everything happens for a reason. I can look around me and see where choices were placed in my life and I acted on them. Some positively and others I regret. Sometimes I regret acting and sometimes I regret not acting on them and not following my gut.

For example, almost seven years ago I was single and going through a hard time. My then teen aged daughters literally bullied me into joining match.com, totally against my will. I 'met' a few guys on there and they seemed nice enough, but none that I really felt a connection with. Mostly, I felt they were just players. My 30 day free trial was over and I was going to just delete my account when my girls absolutely challenged me into actually purchasing a membership. The next day I had a message from another member.

There were major changes in my life that led up to that point. I had to move from everything I knew to a state I knew hardly anything about. I had to end a long term, bad for me relationship and take a huge step of faith. I had to find the confidence to actually meet the man behind the text. I look back now and see that because I took a chance at each fork in the road, I am now where I am. I took a chance on a man I met online, a very scary proposition and one I don't actually recommend, I am happily married and and added a young stepson to the family.

It isn't always easy to see why things happen, sometimes we may never know why. It is always easy to know that God is in control and even when difficult things happen, He is there. I had a difficult childhood. I don't hold any grudges or animosity. It made me the strong, independent, reliable woman I am today.

Photo Ready Album!

2010-10-18T08:14:00.000-07:00

Beautiful handmade girls scrapbook album!

This is a 20 page pre-made, hand designed scrapbook complete with photo ready, unique layouts just waiting for your gorgeous memories.

This album is made to treasure all of your little girls photos. There are a ton of photo mats! All that you need to do is personalize this album with your photos to treasure for a lifetime!

Filled with stickers, embellishments, ribbons, tags, flowers and more.
Very 3 dimensional.

Album is filled with 20 - 12x12 inch pages all in page protectors. Pages can be removed and reorganized in the order that pleases you.

All items are photo safe and come from a smoke and pet free environment. This album would make a wonderful gift for:

any little girl
- a princess
- a teen girl
- a new mom
- an amazing birthday gift - no one else will be able to give her this album! LOL
- a wonderful niece
- a girl struggling with self esteem issues - what better way to boost it than to help her PROVE her happy times and wonderful life!
  
  Imagine the cost of making an album like this:
  $25-35 for the album alone
  $50 in paper
  $50-100 in embellishments and some are hand made and designed by the creator!

Ships in a priority box.
Click on album to go to it.

Family Lost Everything to Fire :(

2010-10-11T20:26:00.000-07:00

Hey scrapbooking friends and family, there was a horrible fire here tonight and a family needs your help. Matt and Dana, 3 kids, 5, 4, and 1; lost everything in the fire today. Children left without shoes, no diapers or bottles. Only have clothes they had on. Send gift cards to PHCC 3220... 18th ST S, Fargo, ND 58104 and we will get to Matt and Dana ASAP.

http://www.valleynewslive.tv/artman2/publish/facebook/21423.shtm

I look around me and my family, photos, albums and warm home out of the elements and tonights news just devastates me. I feel so helpless sitting here watching this 62 apt complex burn. What wasn't ruined by fire, will be by the water. It's so sad. Every little bit helps. Please send donations and gift cards to Prairie Heights Community Church (see address above) as this family is a member of my church family.

Scrapbooking - Easy Solutions!

2010-09-10T06:18:00.000-07:00

Ladies, I'm going to be honest. The new CM products are amazing! I can show some of them on cam tonight if you want to see. There is the new ink - silky and smooth and it actually shows up! Fabulous for edges, and you know me and inking! LOL

Second is the new Grip and Clip Price (US) $8.50 I love it. You can hold four photos by the inside corner and it has a magnet on the back. You can use it to hold your photos over your many colors of pattern paper to determine which one you like best, without using your fingers and rearranging them 10 times! You just pick them up by the clip and voila! No fingerprints, no rearranging. They are evenly spaced and ready to go! You can also use it to hold photos are recipe cards ON the fridge with the handy magnet. The uses are endless.

My favorite new product is the Page Planner Price (US) $28.00
Wow, I am super excited about this one! In all the years of teaching layouts, the most common complaint is that people don't feel creative. They struggle with the layout. Now you have tangible sketches WITH measurements AND ideas/examples! All in one purchase. This purchase comes with four sturdy templates and an idea book. The great thing is, you can use one template on both pages and on the next set, turn them! Using the same template on the third set of layouts turn it again and get a whole new layout! The idea book even comes with directions and the templates have marks on them to show you which way to use them to create the layout given!! I did buy this so if anyone wants to see it, just let me know.

Last, but not least, is the digital scrapbooking. Wow, I know how I'm going to catch up on 30 years of photos! The new software is super easy to use, lets me layer and edit photos, and comes with digital embellishments! I've been so impressed. I drag and drop my photos onto the page either where I want them or using the pre-designed pages available. There are quotes and poems in there too. When I have the layouts like I want them, I simply upload the book to CM and it is printed, bound and sent back to me! How awesome is that? So many **solutions** that I can hardly contain my excitement!

The links probably won't work, it's an annoying quirk of the CM site. Once you get there, if the links aren't working, just search under new products for the Page Planner and under tools for the clip.

Be sure to check them out and come ScrapWithMe!! :)
http://www.mycmsite.com/sites/justdoit

Thanks!

Tammey

Join me for FUN!

2010-08-31T07:13:00.000-07:00

am hosting an online Creative Memories Photo Solutions PARTY! Anyone is welcome to make a purchase and join the fun. Be sure to visit me at
http://www.mycmsite.com/sites/justdoit

To see all of the wonderful and photo safe products available. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me - anytime.

I highly recommend the photo safe POWER SORT SYSTEM. Store your photos, organized, in small compartments that make it easy to grab and go or scrap at your own space. For just $28.50 you can have your photos stored AND sorted in an easy to use, photo safe and convenient system.

I hear all the time in my group over the last four or five years how scrappers really struggle with page layout ideas. I base my weekly classes on that one problem all the time! This break through new product will make scrapping fun and easy! Try the new PAGE PLANNERS! For just $28 you get easy to use, sturdy, templates WITH measurements! Plus an idea book!! I am super excited about this!

Seriously, I recommend these to all new scrapbookers. Starting right is so much easier the winging it and learning how much we did wrong. With so many years experience, not only scrapping my own photos, but helping so many others with theirs, I've definitely learned how to do it right and what doesn't work.

These products work. Looking for a great gift? One that keeps on giving, is practical and affordable? Here you go. Know a new mom, bride, or graduate? Perfect.

Have you seen the new albums? I most especially love the new embossed ones. Wow.

There is so much more. Be sure to check it out!

Tammey

Sorting and Storing Photos - Step 3

2010-08-07T18:56:00.000-07:00

Step 3 - Welcome back. You will need a table to spread out on, a multi-year calendar, a notebook, a pencil, your photos, the Power Sort System, and time.

Look at your photos. How many years do you have to go through? Can it be broken down into decades? Months? Years? Centuries? Pick the biggest chunks. For example, if you have just 10 years worth of photos, you should sort them by year. If you have generations worth of photos, you may wish to start with decades.

Start by sorting your photos into decades or years. The smaller boxes that come with your Power Sort System allow you to simply place your photos right in the box. I had decades of photos to sort so I sorted by my parents photos, my childhood, and then 70's, 80's, and 90's. That is five piles/boxes.
Sort all of the photos until your mountain of photos is all sorted into the boxes.
Take ONE smaller box at a time. Empty out the photos and begin to sort those. I sorted by year. With my parents' photos, it was much more difficult. I just tried to guess which photos were first and which ones came after. I knew I was older than my sister, so pictures of me as a baby went before pictures of my parents with my sister. The Power Sort System comes with tabbed cards just for this purpose. You can write on those cards and put them back in the small box. Now it is easy to simply look at the photo, determine what year it is (to the best of your ability) and put it behind that tab. Don't worry about order yet.
Once you have the photos all back in the box and behind the correct tab, tackle the next box.

Sorting And Storing Photos - Step 2

2010-08-05T11:56:00.000-07:00

Step 2 - Now that you have the photo system ordered and on the way, gather ALL of your photos. Search drawers, cabinets, under the bed, in the closet and anywhere else you might have them hiding. If you have rolls of film to be developed (it could happen), then get those done and add them to your pile. Ok, go do that now.

This is a great time to get with mom, dad, grandma, grandpa, Aunt Jo or anyone else that might have photos you want copies of. A lot of the newer scanners have great photo scanning software built into them. I know the one I have even has a photo fix option that works beautifully.

Your assignment for today is to simply gather up all of the photos you have lying around or that are hanging out in an attic somewhere that you feel responsible for, or want to add to your collection.

Is this helpful? Is anyone following along? Leave me a message and let me know what you think :)
Tammey

How to sort and store your photos

2010-08-04T08:19:00.000-07:00

When I first began to scrapbook, I found the biggest barrier was myself. I would look at the mountains of photos and just freeze. I would never get through all of that. I don't have the time. I just did not know where to begin. After a decade of working with photos, scrapbooking and helping others; I think I've found a good way to get over that barrier. The first step is to tackle that mountain - one step at a time!

This process will not be accomplished in one day. Set aside a place where you can spread out and work for several (or maybe even many) days.

Step 1 - In order to organize the photos, I highly recommend the Power Sort System by Creative Memories. I've used it for years and it really saved me! The one I have holds 2400 photos, the newer ones are half that size but just as amazing. So the first step to successfully tackling sorting your photos is to purchase a Power Sort System. This incredible system allows you to sort AND store your photos in an organized and photo safe environment.

Please note that plastic containers, old shoe boxes and baggies are NOT photo safe environments. It is very important that you store your photos in a photo safe environment so that they are not being exposed to destructive elements. Most scrappers (another name for those that create photo albums) would never consider putting something questionable on a layout next to their photos. Yet, they are okay with storing them in a questionable container. The same chemicals that can leach out of an unsafe embellishment and destroy your photo can also leach out of the container and destroy ALL of the photos stored there. This is so important. It would be devastating to have photos stored for years, finally get the time to scrap them, and then lose them later to chemicals that you weren't even aware of being present.

Step 1 is to purchase a photo organizing system. Simple, right? Click on the link above to see what I'm talking about. This is the best way I know to get this barrier under control. Purchasing a photo safe and reliable system is the BEST way to get started.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me. I would be glad to help any way I can.

I'll post Step 2 tomorrow.

Thank you!
Tammey

Owner ScrapbookingClasses Group
Photographer
Scrapbooker for over a decade now

www.scrapwithme.com

Creative Memories To Offer Exclusive Cricut® Cartridges from Provocraft

2010-08-03T08:36:00.000-07:00

Creative Memories and Provo Craft today announced a partnership to offer exclusive artwork on two new Cricut® Cartridges - Cheerful Seasons and Reminisce Accents. The partnership is a first in the scrapbooking industry.

Reminisce Accents sample

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

PRLog (Press Release) – Aug 02, 2010 – ST. CLOUD, MINN. – Aug.1, 2010 – Creative Memories and Provo Craft today announced a partnership to offer exclusive artwork on two new Cricut® Cartridges - Cheerful Seasons and Reminisce Accents. The partnership is a first in the scrapbooking industry.

Creative Memories pioneered modern scrapbooking nearly 25 years ago and Provo Craft revolutionized the paper crafting industry with the 2006 launch of the Cricut® Personal Electronic Cutter, a portable machine that uses cartridges to cut paper, vinyl, chipboard, and fabric into thousands of shapes and fonts.

“We’ve worked together to create two exclusive new cartridges that marry the Creative Memories style with Cricut convenience”, says Eve Miller, Product Marketing Manager at Creative Memories. “This partnership provides a new source of art and design that will help our customers be even more creative.”

The new cartridges feature the Reminisce Accents and the Cheerful Seasons designs and fonts. Together, the pair of cartridges provide hundreds of unique designs in a variety of sizes. The cartridges are available for purchase from Creative Memories Consultants and on www.creativememories.com www.creativememories.com.

The new cartridges are compatible with the Cricut Personal Electronic Cutter., Cricut® Create, Cricut Expression®, Gypsy™ Handheld Design Studio, and Cricut Cake™.“Launching new content is always exciting,” says Matt Wilburn, Chief Marketing Officer at Provo Craft. “We get to see what incredibly creative people do with it and it absolutely inspires us.”

For more information about Creative Memories, visit www.creativememories.com. Become a Creative Memories Facebook Fan at www.facebook.com/#!/creativememoriesofficalpag.
For more information about Provo Craft products visit www.cricut.com.

About Creative Memories
Creative Memories is dedicated to preserving the past, enriching the present and inspiring hope for the future. As a leader in the memory celebration industry, Creative Memories specializes in selling premium quality photo albums, scrapbooking supplies, digital photo books, and software. Based in St. Cloud, Minn., Creative Memories markets its products at in-home “Get Togethers” through more than 40,000 independent sales Consultants worldwide.

About Provo Craft
Provo Craft is a creative technology company that enables people to achieve their creative best. For 40 years, Provo Craft has invented new products that bring industrial technology to the masses, including the Cricut® Personal Electronic Cutter, the Cricut DesignStudio™ software, the Cricut Cake Personal Electronic Cutter, Yudu™ Personal Screen-printing System, and the Cuttlebug™ Die Cutter and Embosser. These innovative tools help people bring their creative ideas to life in a personalized, professional-looking way at home, in schools and the workplace. Provo Craft products have won dozens of industry awards and are available through leading mass retail, craft, home décor, office, and education outlets nationwide. Visit www.provocraft.com or call (800) 937-7686.

# # #

Let us help you celebrate your memories with quality scrapbook albums, scrapbooking supplies, digital photo books and digital scrapbooking ideas.

Visit CreativeMemories for more information and to purchase reliable, quality, photos safe products.

Alice in Wonderland Layout by TammeyBrown

2010-05-18T19:30:00.000-07:00

SEE Quick Video on Youtube

Supplies:
two pieces 12 x 12 cardstock for the background
one 12 x 12 pattern paper (I used large circle paper)
one sheet 12 x 12 yellow cardstock
two sheets coordinating pattern paper (I used small circles)
one Alice in Wonderland sticker pack
Yellow ink pad

Using your tear ruler, tear one strip of the large circle paper 4" wide and the length of the paper (4x12)
using your straight trimmer and the remainder of the large circle paper, cut a straight edge 4" behind the torn edge to create a second border piece
Do the same with the yellow, except you want it to be 2.75" - you'll need two of these also
Last, tear a border 1.5" and using your straight trimmer create a second one.

Adhere the large piece down first close to the left edge of your border, but with some of the background paper showing through. Now adhere the middle piece to the middle of that piece. Do the same with the smallest piece. You should have a three tiered border like shown in the video. Do the same for the other side.

Cut your photo matte from the yellow left over. Make them 6.5X4.5"
Cut 4.25 x 6.25 from the small dotted paper
Adhere the small dotted paper to the center of the yellow paper

From the second piece of coordinating paper cut two mattes 4.5x6.5 and using your ink, run the pad gently along the edges.

Apply your stickers and title. Add your photos. Don't forget to journal!

SBC logo on tote and Tee

2010-03-23T20:16:00.000-07:00

Here is a very quick photo of the tote and t-shirt with the scrapbookingclasses group logo and motto!!! They look fabulous!! What do you all think?? (Sorry, it's late and I was hurried and didn't layout the t-shirt)

Cruise Donations Encouraged

2010-03-23T07:51:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! After three years of sharing freely, I'm finally going to ask for something. My ScrapbookingClasses yahoo group of about 1000 members will have their very first group outing next month. It is a cruise at the end of April and I'm accepting donations.

All donations will be listed with links back to the vendors/stores. Everything is welcome.

Please note that this vendor list will go to my group, which is normally has a zero tolerance for solicitation so no advertising has ever been allowed to this group. This will be a very unique and noticed list. The list will also appear on this blog, the group co-owners blog, my website/facebook/myspace and twitter! Now that's some advertising! Plus, I'll share it with my other groups.

I am not limiting the donations to scrapbooking items as these gals are also women AND shoppers! This is your chance to share your unique items with us. If you would like to donate/advertise with this group please contact me.

Thank you!!

Tammey Brown (Co-Owner of ScrapbookingClasses)

What to do with busy pattern paper

2010-03-17T19:37:00.000-07:00

Tonights layout focused on using color and patterns. I've noticed several people posting to the group that patterns and mixing colors intimidates them. Here is the final product, without a title yet. I took the approach of
1. Find a pattern - for this layout I used a busy teal pattern cardstock
2. Find a complimentary solid color - I used a rich, textured brown
3. Contrast or compliment step # 2 - I used a soft, feminine pink (pink looks great with brown and teal!)
4. Add a pattern paper that pulls your colors together - I used a brown pattern paper with blue/teal, pink and beige flowers.
5. Embellish using colors on your layout

Layout
2 - 12 x 12 teal pattern cardstock
Border - tear strips from paper and then layer as shown:
1 torn 4" strip from brown
1 torn 3" strip from pink
1 torn 2" strip from brown/blue/pink pattern paper

Photo matte
1 - 5x7 pink pattern paper
1 - 6.75 x 4.75 teal or blue solid
1 - 6.5 x 4.5 solid (I used black but you can use any dark color that works with your layout)

Background goes down, then the border to the side. Add your photo matte and photo, then place a photo at the bottom of your layout. The other page would use the same border pattern and place your photos where you want. Be sure to add a title and jouraling. On my right side page I will add the journaling. I will probably use teal patterned and/or pink ones for the title on the left page.

To view this layout, I place a short video on YouTube, just click here ScrapWithMe

Quick Kit Sketch

2010-01-26T08:19:00.000-08:00

I developed this quick and easy sketch when I was participating in dozens of swaps a month. It makes it super easy to get enough pieces out of the paper to put together a full layout. You will need one piece of cardstock and one piece of pattern paper. For a more professional look, add a second color and add .25 to the cardstock dimensions. Holler if you have any questions.
Tammey

Blizzard January 2010

2010-01-25T15:05:00.000-08:00

Blizzard conditions made getting around Fargo pretty difficult today. That wind is so cold, it just plain knocked the wind right out of me!

HELP! Please :)

2010-01-19T10:31:00.000-08:00

I'm stuck. As most of you know, I demonstrate a paper craft or scrapbooking project every Tuesday evening via my webcam. The new year has begun and I really need some inspiration! I'm thinking maybe some Valentines Day crafts are in order.

Do you know of a good craft I can demonstrate? If you do, please share with me! :) Anything is welcome.

Little kids valentines (like for a classroom)
Cards you've made
Stamping ideas
Layouts
Candy based projects

I'm open to all suggestions!

Thanks so much,
Tammey

Veterans Day Cutter files

2009-11-11T12:25:00.001-08:00

Sorry I've been so out of the loop. I'm just along for the ride called life! LOL As soon as I can, I'll be back to sharing here. However, I've not forgotten ya'll and here are a couple of Veterans day files.

http://belovedkeepsakes.blogspot.com
http://card-i-ology.blogspot.com/

And I do have this fabulous one listed with ThatsScrapInc.com
United States Map (Sorry, I don't have time to upload a freebie today!)

I would like to take this opportunity to thank each and every veteran. It doesn't matter if we believe in the war or if we back Obama... we should all support our vets and our soldiers.

Thank you

Halloween 2009

2009-10-31T17:48:00.001-07:00

We had so much fun taking Skyler out this year. We planned on taking him to Zoo Boo at the Chahinkapa zoo in Wahpeton, but they got a LOT of snow last night so it was moved over to the middle school. All they did was have the kids walk down the hall getting candy. It was lame lol

Today though, they guys got all scary and we went to the mall (which was super-super packed!), then to Krolls for a bite and then out trick-or-treating the neighborhood! Skyler made a killing. Everyone just loved how creepy Skyler and Chris looked.

What great memories and I can't wait to scrap them!

Amazing Dog!

2009-10-12T13:53:00.000-07:00

So my youngest son has this amazing dog, Bosco. It is a boxer cross and very smart. Today when Thomas got home, he saw that the dog had piddled a little in the house. He grabbed a paper towel and wiped it up. Then he saw some paper towel further over. He thought the dog had gotten into the paper towels and he had. It seems he (the dog) had also left a pile for 'Dad' and was so upset, he tried to clean it up himself! The paper towel pile was OVER the puppypoop pile!!! The dog has seen them clean up after him and he tried to do it himself!!! Just couldn't figure out the whole 'how do I pick it up now' thing!! LOLThat dog grabbed a paper towel and covered his mess!!!! Oh my gosh!! Made me laugh til I cried!!

Quiet Birthday

2009-09-06T12:41:00.000-07:00

Sept 6... it was my birthday :) It was a very quiet day. Just another year lol

Ornament Patterns Needed

2009-08-29T17:39:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! Wow, can you believe how quickly this year has zoomed by? Everyone that knows me knows how much I just love the holidays! I am in an ornament exchange and desperately need hand made ornament ideas and patterns. If you have any that you love, could you please share them with me?

If you have them on your blog, website or on a website or blog I can link to, I'll add the links to my blog right in this message for everyone to enjoy!

Thanks!!!
Tammey

Dream Interpretation

2009-08-20T18:02:00.000-07:00

I had such a vivid dream last night! So vivid that it stuck with me all day. I was in an old house with many rooms. I was standing near a table in one of the rooms when I saw something flutter down from the ceiling. It landed on the table behind my oldest daughter. I thought it was a moth and told her so. Then she turned and looked and it was a fluffy pastel yellow baby owl. My daughter said 'Get it mom!' I walked over, slid up the sleeve on my blue sweater (I don't own a blue sweater like that but I sure liked it! lol) I tapped my forearm and 'Come here baby' and it did. The fuzzy litle owl jumped up on my arm. I carried it into the kitchen where I cut up some food for it. Did I mention there was a momma own and a twin to this baby owl sitting back in the room waiting for me to bring food back to them as well. They were all soft yellow and white, but very definately owls.

I don't know much about dream interpreation, but I do find it fascinating. If you have any suggestions, please feel free to send them my way :) I would love to hear what any/all of you have to say. You can also email me privately if you'd like.

I know they say you don't dream in color, but I do. Most of my dreams are full of color. Is that odd? Thankfully, I very rarely dream. Well, I should say if I do dream, I don't remember it. I had such terrible nightmares as a child that I literally taught myself to control them and to not dream. Anyway, would love to hear what you think :)

Busy Summer

2009-08-17T10:16:00.000-07:00

I got the fireman album finished and off to the auction. I haven't heard how it went yet, but I'll see her tomorrow and I'll know then. I also got the photos and album to the OpLove family. That is such a great program. Photographers volunteer to take family photos for soldiers before they are deployed at no cost. The soldier deploys this week. My heart and prayers are with them.

We went to the firetruck parade in Casselton over the weekend. Last I heard they thought there were 181 firetrucks that participated! I think I got pictures of every one of them too! I'll be uploading to my webshots as soon as I can. After the parade we walked around the street fair and visited the vendors. There were some very unique ones there! Casselton is such a cute little town. I enjoyed visiting there.

This has been a very busy and eventful summer. I'll be glad to see fall. I just love fall colors and the crispness in the air! Although, this summer hasn't been very summer like. Last night was downright chilly! I am very excited about getting some fall photos this year. Fall is my favorite season and yet, I don't have any fall photos! My dh says he knows of the perfect spot for us to take a day and get away to. I know it's in Minnesota, but I don't recall where he said.

Crazy North Dakota weather so I don't know when we'll be going. Hard to tell when the trees will be turning this year!

Anyway, just wanted to catch up and let ya'll know what's going on. I'll post photos of the completed donation album as soon as I can.

Take care! :)

Fireman album

2009-08-01T05:41:00.001-07:00

Well, the fireman album is almost done and I have really enjoyed doing it. I'll upload photos this weekend. You know, it truly amazes me; this world is full of such variety. On the one hand, we have amazing, kind, brave and genuine souls willing to run into a burning building (at the risk of their own lives) to save another life. These people deserve our applause and praise :) This album is the least I can do to thank them. My sweet, amazing, gentle husband is the fireman type. He is first to offer help and he means it. He is loyal almost to a fault and he loves his family so deeply, so sincerely, it knocks the breath out of me sometimes.

On the opposite spectrum are the people that if their child ran in front of a bus, they would stand out of harms way screaming "someone save my child!" while pushing everyone else around them in front of the bus to save the child.

Once the child was out of harms way (for today) and returned, that same parent would then claim how they had saved the child and accuse everyone else of not doing enough.

Do you know people like that? They are the most difficult personality types to deal with. For me anyway. They are known as narcissists (See below). They put themselves ahead of everyone else and will destroy those around them, if needed, to get what they desire.

I love to do personality tests and I'm fascinated with people. I seriously considered going to school to be a psychologist, but instead went to be a teacher. The reason I changed fields was that the darkness in people, the negativity, is like fine dust. The more you are around it, the more that clings to you. I knew I wouldn't be able to leave the job at work. I care too much.

Sometimes I'm surprised by the results of my personality tests, but rarely. Do you ever take them? I would love to hear from my readers on this subject. Facebook is fun for this. Some of their little quizzes are just dumb, but some are amazingly insightful. So far they say I'm determined, outgoing, loving and intelligent, although stubborn lol

My children are an extension of me (as children usually are lol). They are kind, generous, intelligent, hard working and amazingly insightful. I adore them and I'm so proud of them. They have grown to be amazing adults. Some of the paths may have been rocky, as life can be hard, but in the end they are moving forward and they are young adults that I'm very proud of.

Feeling a little introspective today I guess :)

How many have read this blog post?

__________________________________________________

From Wikepedia:

Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) is a personality disorder defined by "a pervasive pattern of grandiosity, need for admiration, and a lack of empathy."^[1]

The narcissist is described as turning inward for gratification rather than depending on others and as being excessively preoccupied with issues of personal adequacy, power, and prestige.^[2] Narcissistic personality disorder is closely linked to self-centeredness. It is also colloquially referred to as "the God complex."

NOTE:

Theories on narcissistic personality disorder and shame

It has been suggested that narcissistic personality disorder may be related to defenses against shame.^[14]

Gabbard suggested NPD could be broken down into two subtypes.^[15] He saw the "oblivious" subtype as being grandiose, arrogant and thick skinned and the "hypervigilant" subtype as easily hurt, oversensitive and ashamed.

He suggested that the oblivious subtype presents a large, powerful, grandiose self to be admired, envied and appreciated. This self is the antithesis of the weakened and internalized self that hides in a generic state of shame. This is how the internalized self fends off devaluation, while the hypervigilant subtype neutralizes devaluation by seeing others as unjust abusers. This hypervigilant type does not fend off devaluation; he is obsessed with it.

Jeffrey Young, who coined the term "Schema Therapy", a technique originally developed by Aaron T. Beck (1979), also links shame to NPD. He sees the so-called Defectiveness Schema as a core schema of NPD, next to the Emotional Deprivation and Entitlement Schemas.^[16] All Schemas may incorporate maladaptive coping styles, for example, the defectiveness schema may include:

Surrender: Chooses critical partners and significant others; puts him- or herself down.
Avoidance: Avoids sharing "shameful" thoughts and feelings with partners and significant others due to fear of rejection.
Overcompensation: Behaves in a critical or superior way toward others; tries to come across as perfect.

DSM IV-TR criteria

A pervasive pattern of grandiosity (in fantasy or behavior), need for admiration, and lack of empathy, beginning by early adulthood and present in a variety of contexts, as indicated by five (or more) of the following:^[1]

Has a grandiose sense of self-importance
Is preoccupied with fantasies of unlimited success, power, brilliance, beauty or ideal love (megalomania)
Believes they are "special" and can only be understood by, or should associate with, people (or institutions) who are also "special" or of high status
Requires excessive admiration
Has a sense of entitlement
Is interpersonally exploitative
Lacks empathy
Is often envious of others or believes others are envious of him or her
Shows arrogant, haughty behaviors or attitudes

To the extent that people are pathologically narcissistic, they can be controlling, blaming, self-absorbed, intolerant of others’ views, unaware of others' needs and of the effects of their behavior on others, and insistent that others see them as they wish to be seen.^[7] They may also demand certain behavior from their children because they see the children as extensions of themselves, and need the children to represent them in the world in ways that meet the parents’ emotional needs.^[11] (For example, a narcissistic father who was a lawyer demanded that his son, who had always been treated as the "favorite" in the family, enter the legal profession as well. When the son chose another career, the father rejected and disparaged him.)

These traits will lead overly narcissistic parents to be very intrusive in some ways, and entirely neglectful in others. The children are punished if they do not respond adequately to the parents’ needs. This punishment may take a variety of forms, including physical abuse, angry outbursts, blame, attempts to instill guilt, emotional withdrawal, and criticism. Whatever form it takes, the purpose of the punishment is to enforce compliance with the parents' narcissistic needs.^[11]

People who are overly narcissistic commonly feel rejected, humiliated and threatened when criticised. To protect themselves from these dangers, they often react with disdain, rage, and/or defiance to any slight criticism, real or imagined.^[12] To avoid such situations, some narcissistic people withdraw socially and may feign modesty or humility. In the case of feeling the lack of admiration, adulation, attention and affirmation the person can also manifest wishes to be feared and to be notorious (narcissistic supply).

Though individuals with NPD are often ambitious and capable, the inability to tolerate setbacks, disagreements or criticism, along with lack of empathy, make it difficult for such individuals to work cooperatively with others or to maintain long-term professional achievements.^[13] With narcissistic personality disorder, the person's perceived fantastic grandiosity, often coupled with a hypomanic mood, is typically not commensurate with his or her real accomplishments.

The exploitative, sense of entitlement, lack of empathy, disregard for others, and constant need for attention inherent in NPD adversely affect interpersonal relationships.

July 10 - Firemen

2009-07-10T18:46:00.000-07:00

I am working on an album that I'll be donating to an auction for a friends dad that was in a serious motorcycle accident. He is a fire fighter and I want to make a fire fighter album. Through the help of the scrapbooking group I own (with my dear friend Esther), I have decided on the following?

The colors are going to be red, yellow, black and white
I want to learn more about patches and badges
I really need to learn more about our home town heroes

What do you know? What can you share? Have you ever done a fire fighter layout? I am desperately seeking inspiration!!!

If you know of a fire fighter or other home town hero that would send me a patch for my friends dad, I would appreciate it! He's done his fair share over the years and I want to honor him with an album. Two albums in three weeks.... I know I can.... I know I can.... I know I can!!! :)

Check back in about a month for photos of the albums!!!

Thanks in advance for any help!

Time for a change

2009-06-12T18:51:00.001-07:00

So after almost 8 years at the same go no where job, life has smiled on me with a new job! I interviewed with them late on Wed and had an offer within a couple of hours! It isn't what I was looking for, but it is so much of what I wanted! I start on Monday. It will take a lot of adjusting to, but that's okay. I'm up to it :)

I knew it was time for a change well over a year ago. At first it was like a big family and everyone supported each other there. The last two years though... suffice it to say the glue that held it all together and ran it so well... he retired and took the joy of working there with him. I felt like my life had become quicksand and the job had become just a paycheck. It was time to do something about it.

I tend to be one of those people that when I make up my mind, it's made up and I follow through! My husband has been so wonderful and absolutely supported my decision. Life has gone from quicksand to sunshine and blossoms!

Makes me nervous lol

Just wanted to let my friends and followers know.

Happy Birthday ThatsScrapInc.com !

2009-06-01T19:20:00.000-07:00

ThatsScrapInc.com is having a birthday! If you haven't signed up for the newsletter yet, I highly advise it. It's a great newsletter with store news, product reviews and the exciting news going on with the store and the designers.

To view this months newsletter, just click on the pic to the right. Many of the designers are offering a BOGO this month! I won't be able to participate due to personal commitments that will keep me to busy.

I LOVE the new product Sherri is carrying now to hold the Stickles! As any of my followers and class attendees can verify, I adore stickles!

Just wanted to let ya'll know about this fun newsletter and wish ThatsScrapInc.com a Happy Birthday!

Instructions for Recipe Album

2009-05-26T19:08:00.001-07:00

Ok, here are the directions on how I made this album for my 6x6" recipe layouts. I had so many wonderful recipes from the last couple of years of recipe swaps and now I have a great place to store them!

This album holds the layouts perfectly :) It is in PDF format. If you can't open the file, just go to adobe.com and download the free pdf reader. To get the instructions click HERE

Another Recipe Album

2009-05-26T12:20:00.001-07:00

I had such a great response over the first album, that I did a second class last week. This is the album I made for that class.

I used chipboard to cut out a triangle and covered it in pattern paper. Then I layered two more triangles onto that. It gave this album a wonderful 3-D embellishment!

I used the same large corner on the back cover, but I didn't include a flower there.

I wouldn't normally used these patterns on layouts, but on this album they turned out vibrant, cheerful and just plain fun!

Recipe Album

2009-05-26T12:11:00.000-07:00

I made a recipe album in class a couple of weeks ago. It was a huge hit. I had several ask me for photos, so here they are :) The back cover matches the front one. I will be posting the instructions to make one of these on your own later today.

Pic 1 - The front cover for the album. The rings go in the holes on the left
Pic 2 - A close up of the flower I created for the album
Pic 3 - Inside the front cover. I made a little pocket to hide the ends of the ribbon

I participated in a lot of 6x6 recipe page swaps. These little albums will be perfect to hold those recipe pages.

Just too cute

2009-05-21T06:03:00.001-07:00

Cat Vs Fan @ Yahoo! Video

Happy Mothers Day!

2009-05-09T19:29:00.001-07:00

Happy Mothers day to all moms out there and to all of their children! Moms are special every day of the year, but this is the day for them to shine. Don't forget to let your mom know how important she is to you.

Have you scrapped a page about your mom? Whether she is here to answer the questions or not, be sure to capture as much about her as you can. Great things to include are the basics like;
where was she born and when
what are/were her favorite foods, colors, music, movies etc
what was her favorite book and why
what did she want to be when she grew up and why
what is her youngest/earliest memory

I'll try to get a layout sketch posted either tomorrow night or monday. I'll be visiting my own mom tomorrow and my daughter, but she doesn't know it yet lol I just adore those grandkids and miss them soooo much.

Take care everyone!
Tammey

PS Be sure to get a photo with mom tomorrow for your layout! Here is a free file that cuts a gorgeous frame for that photo of you and mom! My mothers day gift to you :)
http://www.cuttersmarket.com/browse.asp?mnum=044&fnum=3533

It won't be free after tomorrow night, so be sure to grab it up!

Free Easter File (GSD, KNK, EPS, PDF)

2009-04-24T19:06:00.001-07:00

I haven't posted in a while. Work, home, family... you know life, has kept me pretty busy.

On top of everything else, I've got a horrible head cold so we are just hanging out at home tonight. It might be the cold meds, but this file came to mind and I just had to sit down and make it!

All you have to do to get it, is to post on your blog that I'm giving away a free file and leave me a comment with a link to your blog :)

I love to blog hop and I'm curious about who reads my blog or is aware of it. I thought this would be a great way to maybe see new blogs and a to find out who reads mine :)

Kreativ Blogger Award (April 2009)

2009-04-20T10:28:00.000-07:00

Thank You Olenka from Scrapin life for awarding me the Kreativ Blog Award!
The rules for this award are as follows:

1. Add the logo to your blog
2. Link to the person from whom you've received the awards
3. Nominate eight blogs of your choice
4. Leave a message on the nominees blogs

I have nominated the following as Kreativ bloggers:

1. The Scrappin' Gypsy

2. Lady & the Stamp

3. GadgetGrl stamps her art out

4. Kimba's Kreations

5. Kimba's Kreations

6. Mima's stomping grounds

7. Risalenee Creations

8. Esther's Creative Designs

Congratulations! You definitely are Kreativ Bloggers! Thanks for sharing with us!

Easter Layout Sketch

2009-04-15T07:44:00.000-07:00

This really fun and easy to follow sketch would be great for any Easter layout. If you share it, please don't alter the sketch in any way.

If you use it, I would love to see what you've done! Just send me a link to where I can view it.

Cruise - FREE Classes

2009-04-10T08:18:00.001-07:00

Ok, so far we have the following classes/projects/activities set up for the cruise:

Tear Bear make and take including all supplies and tools needed to make your tear bear! by Esther K of EsthersCreativeDesigns
Cruise Layout with title and cruise ship paper piecing by Tammey B
Stampin Up Card workshop with Linda S
Iris Folding
Cruise group photo layout
How to make a paper peicing from scratch
Decorate your door challenge with prize
Bingo
Open Crop and use of shared tools
Island Excursions with plenty of photo ops!
And so much more!!!!

Be sure to get your registration form in ASAP! We do have a few spots left, but this is on a first come first serve basis and ONLY those that register using this registration form will be able to attend any of the group events. Anyone can join the cruise, but only those with an SBC Cruise badge will get into the events :)

The registration form says March, but we got an extension and a few extra rooms that we were able to book at this fabulous price. Hurry though as there are only a couple of rooms still available!!

Read more here: http://www.tammeybrown.com/SBCCruise2010.html

CRUISE 2010 - Spots open

2009-04-09T09:48:00.000-07:00

Wow, things have really moved along quickly!!! We have half a dozen FREE classes lined up for the cruise so far and we are working on more! Right now there is a Stampin' Up card making class by Linda S, tear bear making class (with kit and tools) by Esther K, Cruise layout class (with cruise ship paper piecing [my cruise ship cutter file cut] & title supplied) by Tammey B, challenges, games, prizes, free t-shirt and so much more!!!

This price includes your cabin, food, entertainment, 24 hour a day crop space, inspiration, photo ops, a group photo, and so much more! I am SO excited! So grab your family and join us on this 7 day, fun filled, sun filled, exciting cruise!! The best thing is, it's a whole year away so you have plenty of time to plan!

We will be coordinating with the cruise attendees on what tools they are bringing in order to minimize luggage. For example, if I bring my CraftRobo, then I will share it and someone else thinking about bringing theirs can bring a different tool instead :)

So far we have 27 registered to go. This will be great fun!!! Make sure you get your registration form in ASAP.

For more information, you can visit http://tammeybrown.com/SBCCruise2010.html

Thanks!
Tammey Brown

Easter Layout

2009-04-08T11:35:00.000-07:00

Here is the rough sketch for the class I have in mind. I need to find an Easter Bunny paper piecing pattern though.

Flood Fight Layout Sketch & Cutter File

2009-03-30T07:26:00.000-07:00

Well, so far Fargo seems to be winning the flood fight! More like the first battle was won, but the war is still on.

Many have had to build walls around their home, help a neighbor or family member or jumped in and helped as a volunteer. For all of those, here is a layout to help you scrap your experience.

Journaling IS the most important part of a layout like this.

I made two separate cutter files to go with this sketch. One is of a single house with sandbags and the second is the one shown here in the sketch. To view these files, please visit http://tammeybrown.cuttersmarket.com

Fargo Flooding Pics 2009

2009-03-27T05:59:00.000-07:00

These photos are NOT lakes or beaches. This is ALL farmland south of Fargo under a whole lot of flood water.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090327/ap_on_re_us/midwest_flooding

I have been forced to take a break from scrapbook blogging. I live in Fargo, ND and we are experiencing some very serious flooding. The Red River flows through Fargo and north to Canada. Normally this river is about 14' deep. Right now Red is 40 feet deep and climbing! So if you've missed us on the national news, Good Morning America, the Today Show and more - just google Fargo Flooding 2009 to see the devastation.

For more flood photos be sure to visit my photo a day blog at: http://tammeybrown365.blogspot.com/

or http://cbrown47.blogspot.com/

Mt Rushmore Layout

2009-03-24T07:19:00.001-07:00

I just love this layout. It is a digital layout using fotofusion software. I used just the trial version and really enjoyed it. It allowed me to layer, add embellishments and even some editing of photos.

I think I'm going to start working with hybrid scrapbooking. That is where digital and paper/physical items are used.

The only reason I can't do it now is that I don't have a 12x12 printer. I just love being able to use a photo as the background! It allows me to personalize the layout, but also really match the content! Just click on the pics to see them as full versions.

Fargo Flooding 2009

2009-03-23T06:38:00.000-07:00

Would you like to know what's going on around us? Here in Fargo we deal with a lot of spring run off every year, however, we don't usually have this much water! We did in '97, but this isn't as bad of weather, just as bad of water and run off. In this photo you see a backhoe building up the dike. This is a dirt mound follow a road between downtown Fargo and the quickly rising river. You can just see the river to the right of this photo. The water WILL reach up and lap at the top of this dirt wall.

Fargo Flood Cam is HERE - Now realize what you are viewing is downtown Fargo and that normally you don't even notice the water there! It's a tiny little river wayyyy down 30' + lower than it is now!!

3-25-09 - Good Morning America (March 25, 2009) http://abcnews.go.com/GMA Go to videos and click on Fargo Flooding. Story is http://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory?id=7166172

I've compiled a few links for those emailing me and asking me about the situation:

Newsletter - Good idea or bad?

2009-03-19T12:05:00.001-07:00

I'm seriously considering putting together a monthly newsletter from my blog. I would do a blog hilight, a project, showcase one of my files, have a challenge, and I'm not sure what else. What do you think? Any comments? Any readers out there? lol

Let me know
Tammey

COMMENTS? COMMENTS? COMMENTS? COMMENTS?
Comments are the ONLY way I know I have readers and any interest at all. Anybody out there?

Bunny Hutch

2009-03-17T06:16:00.001-07:00

Many of you have seen my gingerbread house file. It is one of my favorites, well Kristal (being the very creative person that she is!) didn't just see a gingerbread house! She had some amazing ideas for this file! Visit her blog (TheScrappinGypsy) to read them all.

Her wonderful and creative ideas made me see this file in a whole new way! I just love what she did here and how cute are those bunnies?!!
Here you see her very adorable bunny hutch using my gingerbread house cutter file!

This is a photo of the cutter file as a Gingerbread house. Thank you so much Kristal, for such a fun little bunny hutch!!! I might just have to make a layout using your idea!!!

Stickles 10% Off Coupon on Stickles and Leprechaun Bear

2009-03-09T18:58:00.001-07:00

I LOVE Stickles! I do not like glitter glue. Glitter glue dries in clumps, it dries clear and barely even sparkles. Stickles is amazing!!! It dries all sparkly and goes on like a dream!!! I love it so much I went to ThatsScrapInc.com store owner, Sherri, and asked if I could do an exclusive promotion!

This sketch is the inspiration for next weeks Tuesday night class. That isn't true, the Stickles inspired it! They made me think of rainbows and Spring filled days!

I am so excited to offer you an exclusive coupon for 10% off ALL of your Stickle purchases from my favorite online store!!! Now it will be easier to get each of the colors of the rainbow for next weeks class!!! I have purchased from ThatsScrapInc.com many times and been super impressed with the speedy delivery and wonderful customer service!

I will also be using the following Stickles colors:

Stickles Christmas Red

Purple
Optional for the coins in the pot O' gold

Gold

Copper

Use coupon code 'Tammey' to get this fabulous discount! Thanks ThatsScrapInc.com!!

I put in a request to Esther, from EsthersCreativeDesigns, for a Leprechaun tear bear and I will be adding that left of the pot. She is soo creative!!! (The tear bear is represented by the green guy on the right side of the sketch) Not only did she create a wonderful little guy to work with my layout, but she is offering it to all of my readers at a discount!!! Just mention the discount code of 'Tammey' and save 10% on the Leprechaun Tear Bear purchase!!!!! Thanks Esther!

UPDATE: I just ordered all of the colors above plus a few more using the discount code! AND Esthers Leprechaun bear is in my possession! It is even cuter in person!! LOVE it!!

Free Thank You file from Sky

2009-03-08T14:11:00.000-07:00

Be sure to visit Designs by Sky and vote for her elderly uncle, you'll get a really cute cutter file for your time!! All you have to do is visit the link in her blog and vote! Simple enough to get the 'Thank You' file she has designed!!

How cute is that?? Great job Sky!

Over The Rainbow Sketch (March 17th Class)

2009-03-05T14:14:00.000-08:00

This really fun, whimsical and very colorful sketch will be the inspiration for my class next week! I did create a cutter file for the Pot O' Gold and coins and will have it uploaded this weekend.

I put in a request to Esther, from EsthersCreativeDesigns, for a Leprechaun tear bear and I will be adding that left of the pot. She is soo creative!!! (The tear bear is represented by the green guy on the right side of the sketch)

I will also be using the following products:

Stickles Christmas Red

Purple
Optional for the coins in the pot O' gold

Gold

Copper

Mardi Gras Sketch

2009-03-03T11:32:00.000-08:00

Here is the sketch for tonights class. You can use any embellie you want in place of the mask on the left page and the title on the right.

I've included a supply list at the bottom of the sketch.

I will be using the mask paper piecing and Mardi Gras title as shown here.

Building a cutter team

2009-03-02T08:56:00.001-08:00

Well, I've reached that point where I can't do it all and I need to develop a cutter team. I frequently put off designing files because I know I won't have time to cut them. Then, I lose the file idea! I'm looking for a team of five.

Requirements:
1 - You must have the desire, experience and time to be able to cut at least three - six files a month (you'll pick them). Please realize I do NOT work with simple diecuts. Make sure you are familiar with my style before requesting to join my team.

2 - You will have access to my newest files free of charge.

3 - You cut the file and assemble it in one week. Then embellish or use it as desired. Take a photo of the completed project/file and email the photo to me.

4 - In accepting to be a part of my design team, you give me permission to use the photos of the finished files on my blog, in my store and on my web site. You may then keep the cutter file for your personal use as desired.

5 - I will expect feedback on each file. I will be looking for how it cut, ways to improve it, items that might be added etc. You must be comfortable being honest with me and helping me improve the files.

I will be looking for five members, each one with a different machine. (KNK, Wishblade/CraftRobo/Silhouette, Cricut etc) You must be able to cut one of the following file types: gsd, knk, ai, eps, svg

If you are interested in joining my cutter team, please contact me at tammeys at yahoo dot com

Thank you!
Tammey

Layouts For Sale

2009-03-01T08:32:00.001-08:00

As many of you know, I have a scrapbooking group. I create a layout, from scratch and my own ideas, every Tuesday. After a couple of years of this, I've grown quite a pile of layouts!

Many people have asked me if I sale my layouts and I've always said no, I plan to use them. Well, it's reached that point where I have to admit I'm not using them! I keep putting it off and I just need to step up and either use them or let someone else.
I love all of these layouts and have really enjoyed sharing them with my friends. My good friend, Esther, has encouraged me to sale them. She was at my house and saw my layout storage. LOL oh, if I'd have had a camera at that moment! She has convinced me they aren't doing anyone any good if they aren't being used.

So, today is the day. I AM going to put them in my newly created Etsy store. Thank you dear Olenka and Esther for bringing this cute little site to my attention. Now though, I haven't a clue what to put as a $ on them! I randomly picked some of the layouts and I'm going to post them. Maybe I should just put them on my website? I would LOVE some feedback!! Do people that follow my blog buy layouts or do you all just make them on your own??

If these sell, I'll start posting the layouts from each weeks class there.

TSI Sketch Challenge (Ends Feb 28 so hurry!)

2009-02-27T12:21:00.000-08:00

REPOST
Don't forget my TSI Sketch Challenge!!

This sketch to a layout will run from February 1-28th. You must create a layout based on my castle sketch (see sketch below) , take a photo of it and upload to the gallery of the forum HERE. All layouts must be uploaded by Feb 28th to qualify for this challenge.

Everyone that uploads will be given points for the following:

5 pts for including a title
5 pts for having photos on the layout
5 pts for using one of my files
5 pts for journaling
2.5 pts for participating
2.5 pts for using any type of bling
2.5 pts for using hand written journaling
2.5 pts for using water color pencils or ink

Everyone that participates will get a fun, layered Valentines file from me.
Everyone earning at least 25 points will get the file I'm currently working on!

Everyone that purchases this castle file AND uses it on their layout will get the new file I'm working on for FREE! It goes great with this gorgeous castle! So far there is a princess and balcony. I will be including a welded and matted title as well.

Anyone is welcome to join this free forum and my exciting sketch to a layout challenge!! Here is the sketch.

Comments? Does this challenge interest you? Are you going to participate?

Suggestions?
Comments?

Thank you Cyndi Budhi for the fabulous layout using my castle file! Cyndi is a new cutter owner and tackled this file as one of the first files she's cut! She did a great job and entered it into the TSI challenge. I love the colors she used!

Karon also joined in the fun! I really enjoyed this challenge and loved how each person created their layout and interpreted it just a little bit different. Karon used the metallic paper from ThatsScrapInc.com. I recently ordered some of that paper and I just love it!! Fabulous stuff.

Excellent job ladies! I appreciate all of your time and effort and thank you from the bottom of my heart for sharing your talent with us!

I will be sending your prize files to you here shortly!

Crossword Layout

2009-02-24T18:45:00.001-08:00

Ok, I know these aren't the greatest of photos, but I promised I would get them uploaded quickly after class tonight; and here they are!

I am sharing the document I made to create the letters on the pink background and the journal box on the bottom corner of the right side page. Just click HERE to get the pdf with the pink background behind the letters. Click HERE to get the pdf with the plain background.

The supplies and dimensions to create this layout are included on the sketch. I did not follow the sketch exactly, I rarely do. I added the pattern paper border to each side and the photo mattes to show where the photos will go. The flower on the right side border is Flora Doodles by Petaloo. I got them, and all of the paper here, at Hobby Lobby tonight.

Here is the sketch:

Huge, Adorable, Awesome Tear Bear!!

2009-02-24T13:36:00.001-08:00

Oh my gosh!!! Have you seen Esthers newest critter??

How cute is this??

Chalked, fluffed and embellished
14 Inch
Sitting Tear Bear!

These are the perfect size for a wall hanging in a child's room! She has pink, blue, mint green, and yellow, as well as many other colors!

Click on pic to go to Esther's site!

Options:
Diploma in hand and a grad hat on
Wearing a bow tie
Birthday bear with gift and party hat
Holding a gaily colored basket of Easter eggs

Wow, there are so many ideas!! I buy critters from her all the time and I'm always impressed with the quality, speed with which she gets the packages out and how well she packages everything! Be sure to check this one out! Sooooo cute!!!! I'm getting one :)

Win A Completed Tear Bear and Title!

2009-02-22T05:54:00.001-08:00

This challenge closes this week so make sure you post what you love to scrap! All you have to do is post a comment on my blog CLICK HERE

Esther, from EsthersCreativeDesigns cut my I LOVE SCRAPBOOKING file shown here and then added one of her very adorable peek-A-boo bears! This prize is the actual item cut out and embellished as shown here on a red background. It is not for the file, but for the completed heart frame with bear.

Just click on the picture of the completed items on a red background to the left to take you to the post. So far there are only 13 comments. I will announce the winner this Friday and mail the completed I Love Scrapbooking with peek-A-boo bear to the winner so make sure you leave me your email address so I can contact you.

What do you love to scrapbook?

(Left: Thank you Esther for cutting the file and creating these adorable pieces! To see more of Esthers amazing little critters visit her at http://estherscreativedesigns.blogspot.com/ )

President Barack Obama File

2009-02-20T19:02:00.001-08:00

I finally have the TWO President Barack Obama files uploaded to the store in ONE bundle! I also included the sketch to commemorate his inauguration with the file.

Be sure to check it out!

My files are all tested and guaranteed. If you ever have any trouble you just let me know and I'll fix it right away. I strive to make easy to cut and assemble files because I do NOT like to chase down little pieces!

Real Men

2009-02-20T07:05:00.000-08:00

Wow, did you read this story? They should be so proud! THIS is how real men act :)
http://highschool.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=914609
Amazing show of humanity and sportsmanship. Way to go guys!

Congrats Olenka!!

2009-02-15T06:52:00.000-08:00

On being the winner at Esthers Creative Designs blog!! Your layout was sooo cute! Esthers little critters are the cutest I've ever seen. I use them all the time in my layouts. I just love them. If you haven't checked them out, be sure to stop on over and give her a visit. She has a sale on these amazing little Easter bunnies going on right now!
Esther recently had a challenge on her blog and Ms Olenka won!

SALE!!! 50% OFF on Opalite Interference Inks!

2009-02-13T18:37:00.000-08:00

BLOW OUT SALE! We are having a 50% off sale on all remaining Opalite Interference Inks...It will run all Valentine's weekend and the coupon code is valentineink.

TSI is also offering ALL stickles, including the new signature series for 25% off all day Valentines Day....ENJOY! The coupon code for the sticles is sticky.

Monster Truck Layout (Based on the sketch)

2009-02-11T17:53:00.001-08:00

This is the layout I put together based on the Monster Truck Sketch I posted yesterday. I used a pattern paper for the background. It has words all over it in muted, almost fall like colors. The largest torn border at the bottom is a brown bazzil paper and then a cream torn border on top of that. I printed the title and added some clipart. Then I used Tim Holtz Distress Ink by Ranger (Tea Dye color) to ink the edges of the title and the border. (I was out of good photo paper so the pictures look flat. After I get them printed I will replace them on the layout)

Monster Truck Sketch

2009-02-10T12:08:00.001-08:00

This is the sketch I'll be working from tonight when I create my layout. I've included the supply list at the bottom of the sketch.

My husband and I really surprised the boys last Saturday when we took them to Monster Jam 09 at the Fargodome. I had never been to one before and was very pleasantly surprised by the whole experience! The drivers of Spike and Brutus were by FAR the most cordial and kid friendly drivers. The Superman driver, which was the one little Ryan wanted to meet the most, he seemed to have not patience and really tried to rush everyone through. I was the most disappointed with that driver. The Grave Digger driver did pretty well with them. He was in a hurry and overwhelmed, but he wasn't rude or anything. Max D and his crew were busy fixing his car so we didn't get to visit with him. I uploaded a few pics from the event to my photo blog.

Princess Layout by Tammey

2009-02-03T18:54:00.001-08:00

This is the layout I demonstrated tonight for my group. I printed on vellum using tiny clipart butterflies, a castle and a crown. Then I added a little glitter under the castle and some jewels randomly placed. I used a small stapler to attach the vellum to the pattern paper border. You could also use vellum adhesive/tape. Regular photo tape will show through the vellum. The photo matte is 4.5x6.5 for the pattern paper and 4.75x6.75 for the silver paper. The title and tear bear I purchased from Esther. The little butterfly sticker went on with popdots and has a little glitter on the dots of the wings.

This the right side page. I used the balance of the pattern paper to make a right side border. I also placed a vellum border down over the pattern paper and then silver mesh over that. I used a stapler to attach the silver mesh to the layout. Next I added two photos mats with the same dimensions as the left page, except wide instead of tall. The flowers on the right border come with gem brads right in them and they are made by Marcella K. The butterflies and flowers are by Me & My Big idea. They actually came from an Easter package.

Hosting a Sketch Challenge on the TSI Forum

2009-01-31T14:37:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone! This awesome file inspired me to host a sketch to a layout challenge on the TSI Forum ! Here are the details:

Sketch Challenge
This sketch to a layout will run from February 1-28th. You must create a layout based on my castle sketch (see sketch below) , take a photo of it and upload to the gallery of the forum HERE. All layouts must be uploaded by Feb 28th to qualify for this challenge.

Everyone that uploads will be given points for the following:

Anyone is welcome to join this free forum and my exciting sketch to a layout challenge!! Here is the sketch.

Comments? Does this challenge interest you? Are you going to participate?

Suggestions?
Comments?

I Love Scrapbooking Elements (with tear bears!!!) - Win this item!

2009-01-29T08:01:00.001-08:00

Scrapbooking is so much more than it used to be. Today, we are historians. We preserve our memories, capture moments and journal moments in time for future generations.
My passions are photography, genealogy, scrapbooking and family. To me, they all go hand in hand; each complimenting the other.

This file would be great for a retreat, new scrapspace, crop or just recording your passion for such an amazing hobby. The term hobby always bugs me, it's so much more than that. What do you love to scrap? Leave me a comment and I'll pick one name from all of the commenters on February 27th, 09. The winner will get the Scrapbooking Frame with one of Esthers tear bears on it! In the second photo, you can see the files cut and assembled with Esthers little bears on them!!! They are so cute! The prize for this challenge is the large heart frame in the upper left hand corner! The winner will actually receive this completed item so no cutter required!

***** NOTE: Please leave your email address in your comment if you do not have a current blog. Otherwise, I will not have a way to contact you if you are the winner! I will contact the winner and get mailing info after the name is drawn.

UPDATE: Congratulations Cindy! Thank you everyone for posting to my challenge! I loved reading all of them :)

TSI Blog Hunt - Visit ScrapbookCircus!

2009-01-27T11:30:00.000-08:00

I wanted to remind all of you that my dear friend, and TSI team member, Charlene (AKA ScrapbookCircus) has some goodies hidden on her blog!! Frosty's hat has landed in her yard and she has had great fun with it!

With her delightful sense of humor, the goodies will be mischievously hidden I have no doubt! Anything she creates is well worth the hunting though! Good luck and happy hunting!

New Years Eve Project!

2009-01-22T07:40:00.001-08:00

Don't forget to get your New Years Eve layouts done! Creative ways to journal are to share your accomplishments for the previous year. What did you do?

Most people scrap their hopes and resolutions for the new year. Remember, these are albums for future generations so be sure to include the hilights from the previous year; the good and the bad. Journal births, deaths, goals met etc.

Did you go somewhere on New Years Eve? Do you have photos of that? This file includes the clock, clock hands, balloons, streamers and numbers.

This is a file I created last year. I've updated it to include 2009 through 2020. There is also the number 12, just in case you want a clock. This file would also be great for any project calling for:

It's that time of year!
It's time!
It's that time!
Just in time!
Join us for....
You're invited....
Mark your calendar!
Set your clock....
Time got away from me...
Sorry I'm late

President Obama Scrapbooking Layout Sketch

2009-01-21T07:31:00.001-08:00

I created this sketch to go with the file I posted yesterday. I will have a better file, much more detail, up tonight. Be sure to check it out, I just love it. I'll post it to my blog tonight so you can all grab it.

You can find Obama details online at
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barack_Obama
or just do a search on Barack Obama biography.

Looking for Praise Song for the Day? Fellow blogger, Shae, has it on her blog! Visit her blog.

Click on the sketch (it will open in a new window), click File and Print to print the sketch out. I have included the supplies used and general directions on the sketch. I would love to see your layout.

NOTE: Newspaper is not photo safe and disintegrates very quickly. You can save it in a memorabilia pocket and then include it in your scrapbook. To display the article or headline on your layout, make a photo copy on photo paper and use that in your layout.

President Barack Obama File

2009-01-20T19:01:00.001-08:00

I've uploaded a file in honor of our new president. As I said earlier, no matter how one voted, this is a historic event and should be documented. I am an avid scrapbooker and photographer and as such I recognize the significance of every single inauguration! Everyone should.

Be sure to save the front page of tomorrows paper and include that in your layout. You could journal how you feel about the election, what you see for the future, if you went to any inaugural events or anything else you feel is important.

Time magazine and the other big ones will have great photos, you can also find them online if you were not at the event but would like photos for your layout.

Valentine Scrapbooking Sketch

2009-01-20T13:13:00.001-08:00

Tonight I will show how to use the file I posted last week and create a layout based on this sketch.

The file can be found on my blog at HERE.

The supplies needed are listed on the sketch. If you click on the sketch you can save it to your computer and print if desired.

You will need to have the pieces (border, title, frames etc) cut and put together before you come to class (in my scrapbooking group).

I will post the layout created from this sketch and file at a later date. If you create a layout based on this sketch, please let me know and I'll share a link to it!

President Obama 2009 (Scrapbook Page Element)

2009-01-20T12:30:00.000-08:00

Today, January 20 - 2009, is a historic day. No matter how one voted, a new president has been sworn in and that is cause for celebration!

In honor of today, here is a free file for your inaugural project. If you download this file, please leave me a comment. I'm not getting much feedback and hardly any thank you's so I'm seriously considering NOT offering free files on my blog anymore.

All I ask is you leave me a note - even if you just say you were here and grabbed the file.

This file includes one matted border of stars, on welded and matted title reading "I was there!" and a photo frame to fit one 4x6 photo. Simply cut the background, center your photo and then place the top frame over the photo. Cut and adhere the stars and 09 if desired.

Thanks and enjoy!
Tammey

UPDATE: This file is no longer available as a free file. Click on the pic to view file.

***** I have several more Obama related files on my blog. If you landed here on a link, click on http://tammeybrown.blogspot.com to view the newest items posted.

Candy Dish & Yummy Candies

2009-01-19T05:52:00.001-08:00

I had such a busy weekend! I didn't get nearly as much done as I'd hoped. One of the things I did finally get to, is working on a few new files. I had a special request for ribbon candy not very long ago. I was delighted at how it turned out. The colorful candy from my childhood inspired this collection.

I remember going to my grandmas house and she always had a dish of brightly colored ribbon and hard candy out for us. Although I included candy canes and a Christmas tree, these delicious little candies could be on any project. When I created the file I had in mind a layout of my grandmother and journaling my fond memories of those sweet treats. Later I got to thinking and these would be so much fun on a card, pinata layout, or party invitation.

** Included in this file is: AI, DXF, GSD, KNK, SVG (inkscape), EPS and the PDF file. I've also included my TOU. The PDF file allows those without cutters to create paper piecing patterns.

Kreativ Blogger Award

2009-01-19T05:24:00.001-08:00

I received the Kreativ Blogger award from
Amanda at http://amkscrap.blogspot.com/!

Thank you so much Amanda :)

As I understand it, I now need to list my 7 favorite things.
1 - Family - Some more than others ;)
2 - Sunshine - Love all four seasons actually, even winter
3 - Laughter - LOVE to laugh!
4 - Music - All genres (almost all - not fond of rap, acid rock etc)
5 - Photography
6 - Scrapbooking & my groups
7 - Being creative and sharing

Now I'm to list 7 blogs I think should get this award and I'm guessing I can't name Amanda as she already got it! LOL

Esther - http://estherscreativedesigns.blogspot.com/
Myra - http://craftyratcreations.blogspot.com/
Sherri - http://sherrie-cardcreme.blogspot.com/
Linda - http://3dbyshopmo.blogspot.com/
Mary - http://mamawslegacy.wordpress.com/
Tina - http://gadgetgrltekkie.blogspot.com/
Jeni - http://paperpiecing.typepad.com/patterns/

I listed a few of my favorite blogs and sent them the Kreative Blogger Award! I love visiting them and think you should too!

Scrapbooking Sketches

2009-01-17T13:32:00.001-08:00

I hope you dance layout and sketch

2009-01-17T13:11:00.001-08:00

This layout was inspired by the sketch below it that I drew up. I used the song "I hope you dance" LeeAnn Womac to journal down the right side of the right page.

This sketch would work very well for any action layout. The tall, narrow photos on the left page would be perfect for sports/action photos of one person. The right side would then hold the field or group photos. If you are doing a boy/sports layout, instead of flowers use large diecuts that go with the theme. For example, instead of flowers you might use a baseball, glove and uniform.

Valentine Cutter File

2009-01-16T07:46:00.000-08:00

This file contains one matted border, one matted and welded title and one matted photo frame. To use the frame cut the background and then center your photo over the background. Next cut the top layer and center that over your photo. When you adhere the top layer to the photo frame, use caution to apply adhesive so that it is paper to paper and not paper to photo. That just for photo preservation purposes. To create the border I cut two little heart borders in pink with red background and two in red with pink background and then staggered them as shown here.

NOTE: I will be using this file for my class on Tuesday. Check back for the sketch to go with these items.

Sorry, this freebie has been removed from my blog. Thanks for visiting though!

BRRR!!! (New cutter file)

2009-01-15T12:04:00.000-08:00

Wow, I can't believe how cold it is outside! BRRR It inspired me create this new file! I haven't cut it yet, so I can't upload it to the store yet. I was just wondering what my readers thought of the new file. Maybe we are the only ones experiencing record breaking cold?

What do you think of this file? The title is welded so no chasing down letters or small pieces. The photo frame has an icicle topper that I can't wait to sprinkle some glitter on and frame a few photos from the area that I've taken over the last few days!

Princess/ Girl Layout

2009-01-13T19:10:00.001-08:00

This is the layout I made for my group tonight. I love how it turned out. I posted a sketch last week and it inspired me to do this layout as well.

I need to add a title, photos and journaling or E-bay it, I'm not sure which lol. I rarely actually use the layouts I create for the weekly demonstrations. I create them because I enjoy sharing them and I hope they inspire even one person to get their memories preserved. If you don't have gems, you could use photo safe glue and glitter.

I put a flower in place of the castle on the sketch. Paper/diecut/punched flowers would work just as well on the border and down the left side of the frame.

Ivy Hollow ScrapFusion™

2009-01-12T17:21:00.000-08:00

Ivy Hollow - ScrapFusion™ is great for gluing buttons, beads, glass & Plexiglas elements, page pebbles, gems, glitter, and more to paper. ScrapFusion™ is archival, it is pH neutral (acid free), and it is permanent.

ScrapFusion™ will hold onto just about anything that you want to attach to your cellulose paper or paperboard, such as chipboard, book board, or cardboard. It is only meant to glue things to paper. Of the two surfaces you are gluing together, one of the surfaces must be absorbent cellulose. It does not cause paper to warp and wrinkle. If gluing large pieces of paper together, hold them flat underneath a flat heavy object (a large book comes to mind) while the glue dries.

It is color safe. (This means that it won't cause color fast inks to fade or change hue. Some inks are going to fade or change color, no matter what, because they are made from unstable color dyes.) ScrapFusion™ won't cause color bleeding on objects which are resistant to bleeding with water.

AND just for our blog readers, a coupon for 30% off!!!! Ivy Hollow Scrap Fusion sale runs from January 11-17th, 2009 ONLY. The discount code is JanSale

The sale code is good on the following:
Ivy Hollow 16 oz. refill bottle of Scrap Fusion Adhesive
Ivy Hollow Dauber Top 2 fl. oz.
Ivy Hollow Needle Top 2 fl. oz.
Ivy Hollow Spout Top 1fl. oz.
Ivy Hollow Spout Top 2 fl. oz.
And even the whole set! Ivy Hollow 4 Piece variety set

Frostys hat....

2009-01-10T18:50:00.001-08:00

Frostys hat has blown away! It has blown onto another TSI Design Team members blog. Look for the hat and then you'll know to look for the free file!

With all of this snow, Jerry Roiger of Fargo, ND sculted this Mount Rushmore style tribute to the armed forces. You can tell how massive it is by the garage and car in the background. According to the Forum newspaper, this took Mr. Roiger about 15 hours over five days to carve.

Using my files without a cutter (PDF Files)

2009-01-09T08:25:00.000-08:00

I'm not sure that my scrapbooking friends are catching on to the fact that I create pdf files in my shares (in addition to the various cutter types). All you need is the free Adobe reader to open the file. Then print it, cut it out and voila; a paper piecing pattern!

The Beary Special Valentine hidden on my blog does include pdf format so that those without cutters can still create these adorable little Valentines. Just click on this little bear to download the file.

They would be perfect for kids to share in the classroom or daycare! It would also be a really fun project for a teacher to do with the class.

Be quick though as the wind has picked up again! The hat bringing the magic of the free file will blow away soon!

Thanks so much Jo-Anne for sending me this pic! It turned out so cute!!!

Blog Hunt - Beary Special File

2009-01-08T11:17:00.001-08:00

Valentines Day is right around the corner! This adorable little heart envelope and bear holding a heart can be yours, if you are up to searching for the file that is hidden somewhere in my blog! In the file you will find the gsd, knk, ai, eps, svg and pdf format. The pdf format is for those without printers. Simply print the file, cut it out by hand and follow the directions in the txt file to put it together.

TSI, the forum and the TSI designers have banded together to bring you this fun blog hunt! If you don't know the details, please go to the free forum and read up on it.

These adorable little valentines would be a wonderful project for any child to share with their class! You could even tuck in a few stickers or some other teeth friendly item lol Use the heart in the center to write sentiments such as:

UR Beary Special! , Beary Best Friends, or Bear Hugs 4U

If you have more, please feel free to leave them in my comments!

Comments are always welcome!!!

PLEASE mark OTHER below if you found the file!!

Frosty Outside

2009-01-08T10:25:00.000-08:00

Brrrrr it has been windy around here lately! I saw a hat land here.... now where did that thing go? Perhaps it's frosty's hat? We have enough snow to make a snowman with, that's for sure! Wonder if I put it on his head if he'll come alive and say "Happy Birthday!"?

If you are a member of the TSI Forum, you know what this hat means! If you aren't a member and want to know, feel free to go to the ThatsScrapInc.com (TSI) homepage and join the fun! It's free, a super fun place to hang out, and full of awesome information. Plus, there is a monthly newsletter!

The file will open as a zip folder and is hidden as linked text. The hunt is for the Beary Special Valentines file.

4882

Castle Paper Piecing

2009-01-08T05:39:00.001-08:00

This gorgeous castle file has been tested and uploaded to the store!

Don't let the file intimidate you! It would be easy-peasy even for a beginner! Why? I welded the pieces that I could so you don't have to chase down little pieces! I also grouped the colors that go together AND I included an instruction file for ease of assembly!

This paper piecing would go great on my princess, fairy tale or fantasy project (upper pic) or Disney vacation, cruise or other project! (below)!

Princess/Castle Sketch

2009-01-06T13:37:00.001-08:00

This whimsical sketch would be fabulous for any
- Princess, Prince, King, Queen, Kingdom. Little Prince
- Daddy's Princess/Prince
- Mommy's Prince/Princess
- Grandma/Grandpa's Little Prince/Princess
- My Prince/Princess
- Renaissance
- King of the Hill
- Fairy Princess, Fairy Kingdom
- Disney Vacation/Cruise/Disneyland or world

This is a great file for this layout! It is easy to cut, easy to assemble, easy to understand and comes with instructions!

UPDATE: I am hosting a sketch to a layout challenge on the forum in February (09)!!! Be sure to check it out! This files LOOKS difficult, but it is so easy! Instructions are included with the file.
I dare you to take on this challenge! LOL

tomorrows layout

2009-01-05T19:07:00.000-08:00

I'm seriously thinking about doing a My Little Princess layout tomorrow night. I'm inspired by the thought of a princess, but still struggling with it in my head. I got a KNK for Christmas, but I don't know how to use it yet. I'm afraid to just jump in there and try it as I only have one blade. I don't want to break it, or the machine lol

I have found someone to test my svg files. I don't know what they look like to the svg file users and I stand behind all of my files. I'm struggling for inspiration right now. I think it's a little bit of the winter doldrums setting in. It's been super cold here. Yesterday it was about minus 30. Tomorrow it's supposed about +20F. Then this weekend we are expecting more snow!

TSI Blog Hunt Is On

2009-01-05T07:08:00.000-08:00

TSI blog hunt is not here. Good luck with your search. Be sure to check back later. You never know what the wind might blow this way.

I took this photo in downtown Fargo, ND. The train guards were just closing. I have a good friend that just loves trains. When I heard the warning I immediately thought of him!

Fall Layout

2009-01-04T18:23:00.001-08:00

This is the last layout I will share for the weekend. Again, I used the quick kit to create the pieces. I also used pumpkin diecuts, a cornstalk button and two little wagons full of apples. I love the fall!

I used ribbon for photo corners on the photo mat in the middle of the left page. I also inked the edges on the light colored paper. The right side is open to be used as the recipient sees fit.
Here are some really cute titles that would work wonderfully on this layout!

I made the layout for group member, Vicki. You can see what she did with it on her blog! She did a fabulous job!

How cute is she!??

2009-01-04T14:02:00.001-08:00

This adorable little angel is my grand daughter! She came to play last night. She saw my camera and started posing for me! She used to hide from the camera, not last night! She was a total ham! I must have taken 30 photos of her just being silly. She loved it too. For Christmas we got her a Disney Princess trunk full of dresses, shoes, gloves, crowns and more. She got more from her auntie! She is quick to tell you she is a princess.. and she is :)

She loves tea parties, pretty dresses, and playing pranks! LOL

Masculine/Outdoors Layout

2009-01-04T05:59:00.001-08:00

I love how this layout turned out! This layout could be masculine, outdoors, fall, or anything really. There are two matted photo boxes on the left page and three unmatted ones on the right. I used ribbon as an accent and embellished with stickers and brads.

Pink and Brown Layout

2009-01-04T05:56:00.001-08:00

Here is another layout I put together this week. I used prima flowers and gem brads on the bottom of the left page. I added sparkly gems to the bottom of the border on the left page. On the right page is an adorable little bear holding a present and some paper flowers with primas and gem brads in the middle. Again, I used the quick kit to get the pieces except I made all 4.25x6.25 photo mats.

Gingerbread house file is uploaded

2009-01-03T20:13:00.001-08:00

The really fun gingerbread house paper piecing file is now available in the store. Click the pic to go to it. I had so much fun creating this file! I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

It looks intimidating when you open it, but I designed it to cut as simply as possible. The sidewalk has a notch in the end that goes behind the house.

I created a detailed instruction sheet that is included with this file. It shows you how to put it together once it is cut. I also included the gingerbread house sketch that I created to use with my gingerbreadhouse layout.

If there is an interest, I could also create a printable file that you could cut by hand. Just let me know. Thanks for looking!! Please feel free to leave comments for me.

ANNOUNCEMENT!! Blog Treasure Hunt!

2009-01-03T12:27:00.000-08:00

BRRR we have frosty winds blowing around the net, just like they are here in Fargo! ThatsScrapInc and designers are hosting a blog hunt this month! Find where the wind blew the snowmans hat and then click around on that blog. Somewhere there, there is a hidden treasure just waiting for you to find it! Good luck on the hunt, but the hat isn't here! The wind blew it right past me!

PS - the hunt is for cutter files and starts January 5th, 2009!

Dear Santa, I believe Layout

2009-01-03T08:34:00.001-08:00

This file was so much fun to create and even more fun to cut and put together. Usually paper piecings intimidate me. I don't want to take the time to cut them out and then have to figure out how to put them all together! This one went together like a dream and was super easy! I used white ink to ink around the edges of the mailbox to give it added dimension. I used liquid applique to make the little puffy ball on her hat and matched it on her wrist and the bottom of her coat. Again I utilized the quick kit to cut the pieces needed for the layout. When the recipient places her photos in the photo boxes, there will be a slight pattern paper border and a matching cardstock border to go around her photos and really make them stand out.

I've noticed a lot of the layouts going on ebay for really high $ amounts, really can't be used for practical scrapbooking as they cover the photo mattes. I realize that is more appealing, visually, to the one purchasing it. Empty space seems like a waste. However, if you think about it; those layouts are really too busy and draw from the photo. They also leave you very little room to put your picture. You will have to cut it down to 3x4 or smaller to get it on the photo matte that is provided and then a piece of ribbon and a charm or some other bulky embellishment will be in front of your photo - taking away from it even more! Anyway, the space on the right hand side is for more photos. The recipient can determine the size and number of photos she wants to use on this layout.

The little girl posting her letter to Santa is now available in the store!! CLICK HERE to view
There are more pieces to this file, but I didn't use them. I did create a background/matte, a cuff, neck and little piece for the bottom of the coat. For this layout, I liked the file as I have it posted, but the other pieces are there if you want them.

Gingerbread house layout

2009-01-03T08:19:00.000-08:00

I was so excited to cut my new file! The ginger bread house cut out so easily and went together just as easy! I taught this layout for my group a few weeks ago and promised to upload a photo of the final layout - here it is!

I used sugar coating glitter (LOVE that stuff - it comes in tiny little bottles and I think that's what it is called) to add the sparkle on the gumdrops, lollipops and 'snow'. It worked perfectly and has such a fine texture it was a dream to work with. The recipient can use the bottom four inked squares for small photos, journaling, or embellishment. On the right side page there is one photo matte to hilight their favorite photo. The rest of the space can be for journaling or smaller photos. This is one of my most favorite layouts - ever :)

This file is now available in the store! To purchase it CLICK HERE (to view in store)

I used my gingerbread house sketch.

Snowman Layout

2009-01-03T08:14:00.000-08:00

This really whimsical layout is covered in snowmen! I used my quick kit to create the border, photo mats and journal box. I used what was left to create the tags and the additional small photo box on the right page. I stamped the snowflake background on light blue cardstock. I used white snowflake buttons and lovely snowfamily stickers to embellish the page. The photo matte on the bottom of the right side page is in two pieces, but will sit behind a photo beautifully.