Izbzee

Cards of the season

This card inspired by this Z-fold card made by Lisa (found here) is our primary Christmas card for this year.  I love how it turned out.  I didn't have the dies for the label or anything I felt was quite similar, but I did have an SVG set of nested labels I'd gotten from Penny Duncan a few years ago in my SVG vault of files.  So, opening eCal3 and gathering all the needed files, I got started on creating my own z-fold version of this card.

You'll need:
eCal3
Sizzix eclips2
cardstock (script print-paperstudio, black-FSJ, white-Neenah 110 lb)
bone folder
adhesives (scor tape, Lineco glue, glue dots)
White or holographic gel pen
Nested Labels (Penny Duncan)
Bethlehem and Nativity SVGs (123rf.com)
Sentiment stamp

due to the fact that Penny holds the copyright and is the creator of the label file, I can't share my SVG file with you.  these were fun to make and once all the pieces are cut, it's very rewarding to put them together and see the final results.  I know our friends and family will enjoy them this year. 

Thanks for dropping by today.  Hoping you're enjoying some creative time in your craft space this month.  #eclipsecalmaker


 

paper quilt 1

Oh!  How I wish my eyes would cooperate and let me cross-stitch again, but I tend to go cross-eyed anymore regardless the size of the stitches... so I'm falling back on some paper quilting to ease that "itch" if you will. 


This 12 x 12 paper quilt was fun to create and I'm excited to share this quick tutorial and background file with you.  The shoes are available in Hazel's Wicked Witch SVG Collection at SVGCuts.

You'll need:
Cardstock - 2 butter cream fromFSJ and similar textured piece from AC Cardstock
eBrush, SN adapter and Spectrum Noir markers
Sizzix eClips2 and eCal software (or your preferred electronic cutting machine)
Hazel's Wicked Witch SVG Collection (shoe, buckle optional)
SVG paper quilt background (my design for you to download and use - personal use only)
stamps (whatever's in your stash)
embossing powder (Ranger fine detail white and black)
Versamark inkpad
Heat gun
Weave embossing folder
Embossing machine (Big Kick from Sizzix is my go to)
Blending tool (optional)
ink
pop - up dots, scor tape, Lineco quick dry glue

Open your machine's cutting software, place the background SVG on your mat (download link in the supplies list above).  In this case, I created a 10 inch square and arranged my "patches" on the square.  Open a second page (mat) and place the shoes on the mat,  resize to and copy and paste 9 shoes on the mat.  You can also cut the buckles, but I chose not to for this quilt.  Make legs and stockings to fit.  Play around with basic shapes to get what works best for you. 

Cut

Emboss the patches using a weave embossing folder.  Color the patches as desired.  I used Spectrum Noir markers and the SN adapter with my eBrush.  It made pretty quick work of things.  If desired, spray again along the edges for a little more depth.
I wanted a light texture on the windows of my framing mat.  So I used the blending tool and some ink to add a little bit of color along all the cut edges and outside of my 10 inch square. 


Color the shoes with the eBrush and a black SN marker.  The color is smooth and blends well (no streaking). You can heat emboss using stamps and embossing powder as desired.  Color the stockings and stamps as desired. 

Glue the stockings to the shoes.

Now, it's time to assemble.  Center the 10 in square on the 12 in backing piece of textured cardstock.  I used pop-up dots on the back of the patches and place in their respective places in the 10 in mat.  Glue the shoes in place as shown or however you wish.  As an afterthought, I glued some brads in place I had from a long ago collection from StampinUp.  They were perfect since they have little stars on them. 

Frame as desired.  Paper quilt 2 up next!  

it's a little early....

but Halloween IS just around the corner and I thought I would get an early start with some fun ideas sparked by a recent browse through a cross stitch catalog....  here's a peek at two projects I've been working on.  More details to follow in a future post. 

Both of these projects were made using Sizzix eclips2, SCAL5 PRO and eCal software.  Color added using the eBrush and Spectrum Noir markers.  So much fun and the hats are from MyScrapChick.com (Witch Hat Treat Box) and the shoes from SVGCuts (Hazel's Wicked Witch Crafts SVG Collection). 

More details to follow next week. 

Laser play

For the first time in many years, I didn't buy my own birthday present, T did!  Got to love a hubby that listens and says "let's do it!"

I've been wanting a laser engraver for a long time -- especially after seeing a model that also cuts, but the pricing was way out of our comfort zone.  When we saw this model, we couldn't help but make the purchase even though the cutting area is very small, it does suffice for what I wanted to do. 

Peggy at Mixed Media Supplies has some digital stamps that I'd hoped would have excellent results.  So, let the play begin.

 

You'll need:
Mini Maker by Nejetool.com
Rose Stencil Digital Stamp (Mixed Media Supplies)
wood cuts (1/8" birch) - from my stash
Tombow markers
Gesso
Cardstock
eBrush w/ Tombow adapter
Foam brush
Adhesive, ScorTape, Red Line heavy duty tape, Scotch Quick Dry glue
Fixative
Printer
Word Processing program
used fabric softener sheet (optional)
metallic rub on (gold)
Craft knife
adhesive
glue
ModPodge
twine (optional)

I don't have a lot of pictures for this project, but I'm pretty sure you'll figure out the steps on your own.

Begin by selecting and sizing the digital stamp in the NJ software (I enlarged to fill the design window) The finished design was 1 x 1.5 inches. As you'll notice in the pictures below, the image was engraved on a wooden tag I had in my stash.

Once the image has been engraved, remove it from the machine.  Trim if needed.  Set aside.

Gesso and ATC sized piece of card stock.  Let dry.  Using the eBrush and Tombow markers, color as desired.  I originally had plans to use the lighter edges as the top of the ATC, however, decided to flip it.  Color the engraved piece and the mini heart.

Open your word processing program and select the fonts and sentiments for your ATC.  I chose Summer Sunsets, the color of roses as a reminder of the beautiful sunsets we have been seeing in recent days and the garden of roses I pass by nearly every morning on walk through the neighborhood. 

Print on plain paper, Then using some repositionable glue/tape, place the ATC over the printing noting the placement.  Print again.  At this point, you can spray with a bit of fixative OR using some embossing powder, emboss for another layer of texture.

If desired, add a bit of gold metallic rub to the edges of the ATC. 

"Glue" some torn pieces of the used dryer sheet on the ATC with the mod podge.  Let dry.  Glue a small piece of the dryer sheet to the heart.  Let that dry as well.  When dry, add a bit of looped twine on the back of the heart.  Secure with glue or redline tape. 

When the ATC base has dried, secure the ATC to a base (3 x 4).  Add embellishments.  If desired add a light layer of ModPodge to the entire ATC, making sure that the edges of your wood pieces are also sealed.  Let dry and you're ready to sign and frame your work of art.  

 

stamping as a stencil

I thought I would drag out the woodburning tool and play for a little while after seeing a few ideas on Pinterest....  my skills are a bit on the rusty side and while I'm waiting for my laser engraver to land here at home, it sounded like some fun.

 

You'll need:
woodburning tool (mine is really old -- and not many safety features -- adult supervision is essential if you're letting kids do this)
Mixed Media Diamond Fence background stamp
water based inks (do not use a solvent based ink to stamp the background stamp on your wood)
blending tool
sandpaper
ModPodge matte finish
Wood (a Jenga or Tumbling Block wood piece is perfect)
eye screw
key chain ring

Prep the wood.  The wood I used is untreated -- no finish (therefore no toxic fumes). If it needs a little sanding for a smooth stamping surface, do it now.  Clean as needed. 

Using a black or gray ink,  lightly stamp as desired around the block.

Preheat the woodburning tool.  Following the pattern of the stamp, burn the pattern into the wood.  You don't need to go really deep, follow the inked pattern as closely as you can. The wood I used was pretty soft -- and I got a nice color quickly.  Once you have the pattern burned in, make sure you unplug the burner and set aside to cool.  If desired, grab that sandpaper again for a quick go over.  I didn't want a deep pattern, so I did a light sanding.  Wipe any any excess dust. 

Using a blending tool and desired ink colors, apply to the wood on all four sides. 

Let the inks sit overnight to ensure they are dry and won't move a lot when you brush on ModPodge sealer.  I coated half of the piece, let dry and then added a coat to the remaining sides, let dry.  Add the screw eye and key chain ring. 




I can see so many possibilities with other stencils and stamps for all holidays and these becoming ornaments. Hope you have set aside some creative time this weekend!  Thanks for stopping by. 

 

 

 

happy hi!

Been a little quiet around here.... but I've been able to spend a little bit of time crafting  Definitely not as much as I would like, but some. 

I did want to share this with you... My Scrap Chick offered this freebie this week in their newsletter.  Love it!  It's quick and easy using the eclips2 and eCal2 software to cut* and a stamp and blending some inks. 

*This card started from a 12 x 12 white piece of cardstock. 

Hoping you have some crafting time scheduled on your calendar soon!  Happy Crafting! 

 

 

more clay and texture

Clay is ranking a close second to working with paper.  Paper has been a fun medium to work with for the last 15+ years... but as you may have noticed recently, I'm delving a little deeper into some basic clay fun.  It's so relaxing to condition, shape, cut and add texture to the clay.

Today's project is a simple pin.  Made with some Sculpey clay, condition as directed by the manufacturer.  Create the desired shape.  Using the Mixed Media Supplies, Bark Background stamp, I added a bit of texture to the clay's surface altering directions a couple of times for a little bit of  "cross-hatching" effect.   Using a piercing tool, add some stems and leaves and add the beads for the flower heads.  I baked the clay according to the direction, adding a couple of extra minutes since the "handle" at the top of the piece was a bit thicker than the base was.  

After the piece has cooled, apply a wash of black acrylic paint, making sure you get a bit into the stem and leaf depressions.  Wipe off any excess.  Let dry.  Apply a light coat of Sculpey Gloss and let dry.  Once it is thoroughly dry, to finish, add the pin to the back with a good jewelry glue or add a large jump ring and chain to use as a pendant. 

You'll Need:
Sculpey Terra Cotta clay
Pasta machine (dedicated to clay use)
Acrylic Roller if  you don't have a pasta machine
Clay blades
Mixed Media Supplies Bark Background Stamp
Black Acrylic paint/water
paint brush for acrylic paints
paper towel
Piercing Tool
beads
pin back finding

July Welcome

 

We needed some new porch decor this month.  So I upcycled another side piece of a deconstructed shelving unit.  The Crackle background stamp from Mixed Media Supplies has always been a favorite of mine.  And even on this big piece, it added just the right touch.  

You'll need paint (Decor Art Multisurface satin- antique white, blue and red and dark gray - wrought iron)

Prep the wood -- I sanded to give the surface a little more tooth for the paint.
I used a based coat of Wrought Iron - let dry thoroughly. 

 

Mark off sections for the "stripes" of color.  Dry brush your colors on.  Let a little of the dark gray wrought iron color show through.  Let dry.  If desired apply another light coat and let dry. 

Base coat your letters, mine are 4 inches tall and about 1/4 in thick (Hobby Lobby) The star is about 6 inches in height and has some texture.  I basecoated with the antique white and then applied a coat of Krylon's Hammered copper paint (be sure to apply in a well ventilated area and let dry thoroughly. 

 

Glue the letters and star to the painted base.  Let the glue dry.  For final touches, brayer a light coat of paint onto a portion of the crackle stamp, press lightly to the edges of the board as desired.  It's a nice touch and added just the right amount of texture. 

Spray with several light coats of sealer, letting dry between coats.

 

Thanks for dropping by today and hope you'll set aside some time this week for some creative fun!

More Mixed Media ATCs

So loving the play involved with these little pieces.  Today, I'm sharing 3. 

All pieces begin on printed copy paper, acrylic gelli print pull, embossing, vellum print and colored digital stamps from Mixed Media Supplies.

Add a bit of mica, sequins, gems or glitter for a little more "light" play.  Mount and sign.  Ready for framing!  

Supplies: 
digital stamps
printed copy paper
Gelli plate
Acrylic Paints
Gesso
printer
embossing powder, Black (Fine Detail), Clear (Find Detail and Ultra Thick)
Versa Mark Ink
Stencils
Stamps (Textured stamps from Mixed Media Supplies)
Tombow markers
eBrush ( with TB adaptor)
Metallic rubs
mica powder (Mixed Media Supplies)
sequins (iridescent)
Clear Glaze
brush
water
vellum
photo editing software
Computer
Xyron permanent adhesive, Creative Station 9"
cardstock
paper trimmer

Spring Hello

 

I'm so happy with the way this card turned out.  It's simple and highlights a beautiful digital stamp from Mixed Media Supplies. 

We're celebrating Mom's 86th birthday this month.  Alzheimer's isn't kind and we are getting to the point of having to introduce ourselves on occasion.  Mom's favorite color is blue and her eyes twinkle a brilliant blue when she smiles.  I hope this card will bring a smile and twinkle.

Some materials for this post have been supplied by Mixed Media Supplies.  I do not receive any additional compensation for review of the product. 

You'll need:
Bouquet digital stamp (Mixed Media Supplies) to be released shortly
Ornamental Frame (digital stash)
Sapphire Mica (Mixed Media Supplies)
Photo editing program (Photo Shop Elements)
Printing program (Print Shop), optional
Printer
Die Cutting machine (Sizzix eclips2) and associated software (eCal2)
Cardstock
Markers (Tombow)
Waterbrush
White embossing powder
heat gun
text background stamp
ink
watercolors
Water brush (#1 or #2)
Tape Runner (Tombow)
Quick dry Glue (LineCo Natural pH)

Embellishments (I used a laser woodcut)

Open your digital photo imaging program.  Open the digital stamp and alter the color of the stamp lines by changing hue and saturation.  Resize if needed and save. Repeat the process for the ornamental frame of your choice.  I altered the frame slightly to accommodate the bouquet.  Add the bouquet as an additional layer to the frame.  Make any changes needed and save.  I saved as a png and as a psd file just in case I wanted to make any additional changes in the future. 

Since I'm wanting to make sure that the image will fit in the desired size for my card front and print one additional image, I opened Print Shop and set the page up using the guides for placement of the png image.  Print 2 copies of the page when you are satisfied with the arrangement. 

 

Open eCal2 and create an oval frame with a cut out that is slightly larger than the outside diameter of the ornamental frame you are using.  I added 1/4 inch to the measurements of my frame and created an oval with those measurements and added rectangle and used Back minus Front in the path dropdown to create my card front.  Cut using your die cutting machine.  (I didn't have a die that had a large enough opening for my image, so the electronic die cutting machine was my best option). 

I let the ink on my print dry for about 24 hours before starting the watercolor background.  I chose a light brown and watered it down significantly before adding it in a pouncing manner around the images on my print.





I used a light turquoise to color in the butterfly.  Using a separate print, color the butterfly using a small amount of mica mixed with water.  Let dry.  Fussy cut the butterfly from the image and set aside. 







Using the background stamp and a light brown, stamp the oval frame, using some versamark ink, and a flourish stamp, stamp randomly around the frame.  Liberally sprinkle the embossing powder to cover all the stamped areas.  Remove the excess powder and using the heat gun, set the powder. 

Using the eBrush, apply your color by spraying a light coat.  Once you've sprayed the frame, gently wipe the excess color away from the embossed images on the frame. 

If the mica you mixed with water earlier has dried on your palette, re-charge it with a little more water and using a fine tipped waterbrush and create small dots as desired around the embossed images.  Let dry. 

Adhere the digital print to the back of the oval frame.  Adhere the frame and print (now one piece) to the card front.  Using a dot of glue, adhere the butterfly and let dry.  Lift the wings a bit for some dimension.

Glue any other embellishments as desired.  I chose a "hello" woodcut  from my stash.  This could also be framed.  It would make a very nice piece of home decor. 

Thanks for dropping by and spending a little time on the blog today.  Hope you'll schedule some creative play in this week!