OK by my title you are probably thinking “WHAT on earth is Lauren blabbering about now?”
I am stepping out of the box a little (for me), trying a new technique, and doing a different style of card.
Just so you know, I AM capable of transforming my style into whatever I want, its just not often that I feel the need to mix it up! But today I mixed away.
Well, I have a NEW product to share with you all. New to me anyway.
I “showcased” the product by making my card all old, distressed, and collagey, with a REAL OLD set-Garden Collage. There is the ” old” part.
This was a SU! Sell-A-Bration set at least 2 years ago. So ANCIENT to me! LOL! I got it not long after I started stamping. It had a butterfly so I fell in love with it.
I heated my gold ribbon, to make it curl. I stamped the main image in vellum, and layered onto patterned paper by Prima. I used my sewing machine to stitch around the edges. I sponged the edges, and added some gold cardstock as well.
It picks up the gold in the butterfly.
Notice my GORGEOUS-POP OFF THE PAGE-GLIMMERY-3D butterfly of beauty?
How could you not right? The butterfly is popped off the page.
But what makes it have that special look?
Well I made the butterfly using a product called Fantasy Film.
It’s the coolest thing ever.
It was bought in place of what my friend thought was Bling paper. Can’t blame them, its very close looking.
After getting it I found I didn’t have the correct things to use it :C BUMMER! So off to the store I went, to get what I needed.
Here is what you need to do to use Fantasy Film
A stamp
You need the Fantasy Film-DUH! It cost $7.00 for the roll you see here. Comes in several colors like clear iridescent white, pinkish, greenish—-and thats all they had. May come in other colors-not sure.
NOTE: You need to cut and layer the film over the stamped image, 3 times. (see the 3 pieces)
A permanent ink such as StazOn or Pallette ink.
A Iron. I use Heidi Swapp’s ribbon iron-works like a charm
Most importantly, a nonstick layer! I got the non stick craft mat-shown in photo. It was $10. has many uses, especially if you use your heat gun frequently.
Here is what you do:
1) Ink your stamp with permanent ink. Place stamp ink side up.
2) Cut/layer film over stamped image 3-4 times.
3) Place non stick parchment paper or Craft mat over film that covers stamp.
4) Place iron on mat, and rub in circles for about 30+ seconds. Depending on your iron.
5) Take iron off image, remove mat, and now you have your inked/melted fantasy film image!
6) Trim out image, and design card as desired.
COOL huh?
The process is actually very fast-after you get it down.
The more solid the lines the image has the better the look you get.
I have a butterfly from a set, (not used yet) and it looks great.
AND I tested it on Acrylic stamps! Oh I was petrified!!!! But it worked. I am not saying I endorse YOU doing it, nor am I going to claim responsibility if it doesn’t work for you, but I personally had no problem using it with a Papertrey Ink set. You will see that sample soon.
Also the film mets, and morphs into a variety of colors. The more it mels the more it morph’s. Pretty cool look!
I hope you give me your feedback on this product if you get a chance!
Till tomorrow.
to your nearest Michaels.
On a shopping excursion to M’s, I was browsing the dollar spot, and-right next to it, found these babies!
Look familiar?
Well, if you are saying DUH! Its says right on the package Decorative Accents-that obviously go in your candle holder/vase’s then you are SO WRONG!
These are JUST like the Robin’s Nest Dew Drops! I mean EXACTLY! same size and everything. Only for an entire bag of these you will only pay $3.99!!
I was tipped off to these during my blog browsing (which is not very often :C), so if you know who originally made this find-post it here!
I had to see for myself. YUP! They are exactly the same.
You see I got the pink/purple variety, green variety, and clear-so I can use my Copic marker’s to color them whatever color I want
They also had a blue variety. No need for that.
Now the bag was rather big, and was NOT with the plant/vase stuff. It was near where you buy decorative home greenery, on an end cap!
So I wondered HOW I could store these.
As you can see in the above photo, I used a old SU! plastic stamp case. I didn’t want to mix them up, so I did this
I simply measured my case size. Then cut cardstock a bit longer (about 4 inches longer) in length. Scored it, with my Scor-Pal, to make divider’s that fit it inside!
The dividers are scored at (for example) 2-3-4 then again at 6-7-8. This gives you the mountain you need to support the weight of the beads, and keep them separate! Your measurements will vary depending on case size and how many packages of bead thingy’s you purchase.
Just put a bit on adhesive on the bottom of the divider before you place it in. Add beads-DONE!
Cool huh?
I have an INSANELY busy day today, so hope to post some eye candy later.
I have alot to share this week, so stay tuned
INCLUDING a cool product I NEVER heard of before. You are going to want to see it.
HINT-its shines, and changes color.
Now I know you want to know what it is
Till then.
OK Sorry, I’m SO late getting this Saturday Sketch post done!
I have been busy PLAYING, with my daughter’s new TOY. I also bought one to send out to my PSF Staci-for her “daughter’s” Becca and Rachel
She may not give it to them either! LOL!
LADIES TOYS AREN’T JUST FOR KIDS ANYMORE!
This is a toy that is STAMPER APPROVED! A toy that I never should have given them, and saved for ME!
I did confiscate some of it though
Does that make me a bad and selfish mommy? Maybe. Will I get more use from it then they will-Um YEAH!!! LOL!
Do you to try this-YES! YES! You do.
Trust me-you will be thanking me, when you see what WICKED AWESOME thing I have to share with all of you today!
I am using my own wording and experience to type up this post! No professional Spotz person here, so keep that in mind as I use my own ” valley girl, stamper mom, with a New England accent to review this product”
It is a product I found at Target called SPOTZ (be sure you click the link OK!). Now you Canadians, don’t fret. I did a search and theyare sold at Toys R Us, and Walmart! Although after this post, they may sell out.
This Spotz maker is so beyond COOL, for the paper crafter. Its a machine (you don’t need the actual machine though), that comes with printed vellum sheets (that gets cut into 1 inch circles), and get’s put into funky cool plastic rims (some have BLING!!!), where you can have them viewed through the clear plastic side, or just the pretty rim side.
Here is the photo of the machine/supplies. You can buy the Spotz accessories separately.
Now you don’t need the machine (as stated above)-unless your kids are using it for play. I did buy the machine, and found the purpose of it is so the girls canSAFELY cut a 1 inch circle-then seal the clear plastic case on their Spotz tags.
YOU will just want the accessories pack.
Click photo to enlarge
1 inch circle punch-then the Spotz super cool rims, with clear window insert.
You can use/keep the printed vellum cardstock sheets or toss them. Some are pretty cool.
So upon viewing these and playing-as I said I found no machine necessary, I found you just put in your image, them pop in the clear layer. Pops in pretty easy. I will say you can’t really pop the clear lid off once it’s popped in. At least not without possibly injuring yourself! LOL!
I also wanted to find what ELSE these cool rims can do!
So here I will share my results.
NOTE: the MACHINE says to only use the Spotz images that come with it. I believe it says that because their Spotz MAKER, is only strong enough to cut through the vellum, not card-stock, patterned paper, or photos and whatnot.
The first card-uses my own vellum cardstock, and is this weekend’s Saturday Sketch! I hope you get to try it out.
Here is the Sketch Click to enlarge. You know I LOVE circles!
click photo to enlarge. Close-up view of Spotz
I stamped, then colored this butterfly (by Autumn Leaves from my Elf). Popped it into the rim, so that it would show through the plastic side. You can view it on both sides, since it is vellum card-stock. Adhered with a glue dot.
I had to combine these sets after seeing Lynda’s card, made with one of my sketches. I also had to get the paper, as you will see below!
This card is for my Elf, who sent me this butterfly image, used in the Spotz. Colored with my Glitter pens from Sam’s Club.
The Snag’Em flowers are by Imaginisce, and were purchased—HERE. They are colored with my Copic markers, and die cut with my rectangle nestabilities. My Atyou glitter pens add more sparkle
Sentiment is Stem Sayings, by Stampin Up! Ribbon is from Michaels. I stitched the pink layer with my $4 Rite Aid sewing machine (loving that).
So that card showed you can make your won VELLUM images, like what comes with it-not it was time to try something else out!
Is this not the YUMMIEST of YUM? What a “sweet” card
I decided I would try stamped CARDSTOCK-Papertrey Ink white (which is thick), and microbeads. Think SHAKER card. I also put in some glitter.
I will say the cardstock was an easy fit. So patterned paper would be a breeze. The beads won’t shake, but maybe if we used paper, or just glitter it would be perfect.
Now for the card-I used a favorite set of mine from ACWP-called Ice Cream Party! I stamped the “glass” sundae cup twice-once on my cardstock, then again on a window sheet (cut out, and layered over image) to look like glass.
Liquid applique for the -whipped topping, and liquid pearls for the cherry.
Ribbon is from Michaels, and the dotted embossed vellum bkgd was done using my Fiskars texture plate assortment #1.
I also loved this layout too. The side panel is the bkgd block from that stamp set.
Now, I wanted to try something else. Putting items in there.
Prima’s in the tags! They are enclosed, with the clear cover. A wicked cute look in person!
Now how super cute is that? Told you I LOVE little birds too.
The Spotz, are fit into circles, which are popped out with my 1 1/4 circle punch.
This bird is from—HERE, as is the For Peep’s Sake paper. Just scored the edges of the bird layer with my Scor-Pal! Who says you NEED every size nestabilities?
The grass is by Doodlebug- paper Frills. Ribbon is American Crafts.
WHEW! Was that ever the post that NEVER ends. I hope you enjoyed it though, and it wasn’t all blah, blah, blah.
I am so hapy when I can share cool things with the world.
I hope you get yourself some Spotz!
I hope you have time to tell me what you think.
If you get to try the sketch, send us all a link so we can see what your take is OK!
I’m off to stamp the day away! (After Jason get’s back from food shopping)
So I hope YOU find some “mytime” today
Till tomorrow.
PS I do have my blogger’s challenge to share, but an too tired now-so maybe tomorrow!
Good morning (or night), depending when you pop on here. Either way, thanks for visiting me here
Its absolutely FREEZING here in New Hampshire. We have gotten slammed with snow the last few weeks. Could that be why I’m so in a SPRING mode?
Anyway, I made the following card for my friend’s daughter. It was her birthday the other day. She just turned 4! I think she looks like this image
This image is Miniwagonbella . I bought her at my LSS—>HERE.
It had to be VERY girly, so I used my favorite colors, and SEI paper Ally’s Wonderland. My dilemma came when it was time for WHERE to put the sentiment. Read on.
Yes, my card is going to be LATE! Big shock right? I’m over getting upset about sending a card too late. Its much better than not at all right? Besides, Amber has been ill , so I have not left the house. It will go postal Saturday when Jay is home, along with a few little Target Treats
I’m sure Shannon won’t mind.
I wanted to share something with you that “I” find extremely helpful to use/do when I stamp.
I like to get alot of mileage out of my products, and this is one I’m sure most of you HAVE, but DON’T ever USE!
Its called a Stamp-a-ma-jig.
Now when I type, for some reason I always think people KNOW what I’m talking about. I tend to forget that some of you are new! I realize this when I get questions about the products. Please don’t EVER hesitate to ask me anything-OK! No questions is a bad/stupid question. How else do you learn? So ask away if you need too.
If you clicked the link (I just Googled one for a photo), it describes that it is a stamp positioner, and yadayadayada. I find it very helpful to line up images when I stamp-especially 2-step stamping. I am pretty OK with doing it on my own, but I do have some blocks that are mounted crooked or the image is really to tiny to figure where it lies on the block, and so on. Plus with the rise in acrylic images, you may not find you use yours much anymore.
Well I am going to change that! Here comes MY cool new use for it! It will save many cards for you I’m sure. Or it will save the after thought of “Oh I shoulda………”
Do you ever wonder if a card NEEDS something more? Or if a particular sentiment will fit in a certain spot? If it does, how will it look? Will it ruin it, orclutter the card all together? Will it be better in another spot? And the thinking goes on and on, right?
NOW here is the solution that helps me! After MANY ruined cards, I FINALLY figured it out (a while ago).
Not only will it show you HOW it will look, but it can help you place it, and get it right! It can also help you decide to NOT use it, before your masterpiece is ruined.
Click the following thumbnails for a larger view!
I use my stamp-a-ma-jig, line it up, and stamp my image/sentiment, on the plastic layer that comes with it.
You may also use a window sheet for this. DONT use StazOn!!!!
I then take the layer, with my image, and place in in different places on my card.
place 1
place 2
place 3-a winner!
This helps me see if it will look good where I THOUGHT I wanted it, which was originally place 1, or better elsewhere.
Sometimes I change what I originally thought, and go with something else-or nothing at all.
Now by lining it up on the Stamp-a-ma-jig, I can ensure that my image will end up exactly where I want. In this case, with the “girl” word at the edge of the corner.
So as you can see by my finished card above, it is exactly as I wanted it, but not where it was suppose to go. My card was saved, and all is good.
I hope you found this helpful and use it in the future! You can even do it with colored ink if you are undecided what may be better! So go for it!
Till tomorrow.
I have some Papertrey samples, MFT sneak peek’s, Lizzie Anne and more Bella’s to come! Not to mention our Saturday Sketch!
Well let me start by saying that I’d LOVE to hear what is on YOUR wish-list for Christmas. Maybe I can add it to mine. I’m having a hard time finding something AWESOME.
I think I have everything I could possibly want (GASP!!!!). So I need to think hard about what I want to get.
Since I get ALOT of emails asking my opinions on products and where to buy I am making a mini list of must have’s.
These are the top 5 things, in my personal opinion, that I think every paper crafter SHOULD own! If you don’ t, then you may consider adding it to your cart
1) Scotch ATG 714 Gun www.framingsupplies.com
2) Scor-Pal- www.scor-pal.com
3) Copic Markers http://www.allthatscraps.com/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=388
Also see Atyou Glitter markers in category
4) Nestabilities- http://www.allthatscraps.com/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=551
5) Cuttlebug- http://www.allthatscraps.com/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=6&zenid=a31a55f975babb85388fc3a92554cdb4
Now I have reviewed some of the items, or other crafter’s before me have, and did a fabulous job, that I don’t feel the need to repeat it.
I would however like to tell you WHY you need the Scotch ATG 714 gun by 3M.
I want to say that I’m not affiliated with them, nor am I getting compensated for this “plug” if you will.
I’m just a happy paper crafter who loves a great quality product, that is affordable, saves me money, and best of all, makes my projects easier to complete.
You may be asking what the heck you are looking at! Well, if you are familar with mono-adhesive dispenser’s, then you are looking at the MACK Daddy of all dispensers! Its the Scotch ATG 714 Adhesive Gun!
You can not only see the various options, but now they have a video about how to use it, and load it! So check it out.
It retails for $36.62 —–> HERE
If you own one-please chime in with your opinions
Good or bad. This is what its all about-sharing an HONEST view. I welcome all of your opinions and experiences.
The thing with this tape dispenser is, it was originally used for framing. So the adhesive is really sticky!!! Unlike mono-adhesive your project wont pull apart or fall apart. We all know how frustrating that can be.
Each roll of adhesive( I get the GOLD due to its photo safe acid free) is 36 yards for ONLY $2.89!
Mono-adhesive is only 13 yards for $3.99 each! As seen —-> HERE
So, you are getting double the adhesive for a fraction of the cost-plus it holds better!!
I bought a 12 pack over a year ago and I still have 2 rolls, PLUS a fresh one in my gun!! I stamp just about daily, and really use my adhesive! That is phenomenal!!! I also love that I get great tape coverage-no flimsy trail of adhesive, like the mono adhesive.
They have a wide variety of tapes to choose from also.
I had heard the buzz over these ATG Guns about 2 years ago on SCS. I (like always) broke down and bought one. I tell you that place has cost me more money………………………..
Now, let me also tell you, it was to date, one of the BEST thing’s I have ever bought. I like this particular style because it is the 1/4 inch tape dispenser. There are many other options, and my opinion is to get what is right for you. I liked the size of the row of adhesive I would get from my mono-adhesive, so that was why I made that particular choice.
I also need to STRESS, that the gun is pretty large in size. People discussed that fact when they first got theirs, so I thought I prepared myself. BUT, when I unwrapped it I was still pretty shocked.
Now that I have been using it for 2 years I am SO use to the size and feel of the gun. I love it, and perfer it! I never use my mono adhesive anymore. Plus it doesn’t get lost
So I hope you found this to be helpful and informative.
I’d love to hear your questions, opinions or comments!
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Stacy asked
Lauren, When you say that the gun is big just exactly how big are we talking about. Is it comparable to a staple gun or smaller than that? Thanx. Stacy
I measured it-
The top cartridge is 7 1/2 long 4 1/2 tall.
The handle is 4 1/2 inches as well.
Its only like 1 1/2 inches wide. Didnt measure that part! LOL! Just thought about including it as I type.
Seriously not bad. Just bigger than I had expected. I do LOVE it.
I cannot believe it!
“I” Lauren Meader, computer challenged paper crafter made my very FIRST Digi card! The photo at the top is of the set of 4 I did, boxed together). Individual cards are shown below.
What is SO great about that?
Well Im so computer challenged, that its a miracle I can email, let only use a digi kit!
After seeing the stamp set pre-view of Eat Cake on Nichole’s blog ——>here, I HAD to try it out.
She posted step by step directions for using these kits ——> HERE,
Let me tell you those visuals and everything were SO good even “I” could do it! Im a very visual person and often dont need/use directions I just pull it apart visually-so THANKS NICHOLE!! Your instructions were PERFECT!
I downloaded them all-after making sure I did the first one right.
Now MY PROBLEM!
I dont have a fancy editing software like Microsoft Word, but I DO have Word Pad. I know you can laugh-thats not even real editing software! LOL!
BUT you can still use these kits.
If you are like me and dont have it, just follow Nichole’s directions in Chapter 1
then for chapter 2 here is what I had to do.
1) Went into my files and opened them up. As reccommened, I had created a seperate file for the Digi kits to make it easier to find
2) Right clicked on image I wanted-clicked “Open with” , then went to PAINT.
3) Clicked on image in paint, then Ctrl a, Ctrl c. (this means the control button plus the letter)
4) Opened a window with Word pad. Clicked in there, then did CTRL v.
Now you can make duplicate images (move cursor and click CTRL v again), or make the images smaller or larger-whatever you need! WAY COOL! Prints in seconds!!
I used my Papertrey Ink-White cardstock in my printer.
I made FOUR cards using the downloads from this free kit-
ALL supplies are from Papertrey Ink Eat Cake Download (including patterned paper).
The cardstock was also Papertrey Ink White. I used flower punches and ribbon for other accents.
Here they are!
Just click on each photo for a larger view!
Pretty cool huh? I was quite proud. All 4 cards took 1 hour! That includes the printing and editing :D.
I had so much fun doing these.
Dont get me wrong -I still NEED my stamps! This was just a fun alternative. And since I want the new set-it tied me over a little bit till the 15th.
I made these for a friend who I bought a Digital Photo Calendar making kit. I thought I should make her cards digiatl too to show it can be easy. AND she can give them as gifts to everyone ;D
Thanks for looking. Let me know what you think-or if you tried it send me a link.
Did you see the Riendeer Kit? OMWord! I NEED that reindeer made into a stamp!!!
OK off to get the kids Christmas photos done.
Wish us LOTS of good smiles-at the same time!
Cuttlekids Machine by Provo Craft contents. Click for larger view.
I am about to give is my personal opinion. If you have a question or need more specific information you may want to contact the creators here: Provo Craft
So I guess the main question is “Is it really kid friendly?” and ” Is it really JUST for kids?”
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SO I got my daughter Alexa the Cuttlekids machine and several dies for her 8th birthday.The dies I purchased were-Fairy and Tadpole alphabet, Flowers, and Flying bugs 4 set of dies. As you can see by the photo, it comes with everything you need to get started-including 2 die cuts.
I did NOT see a recommended age for this machine, but figured 8 would be appropriate. And in all honesty-I HAD TO HAVE IT, for me too! LOL! All three of my children have used this machine- ages Alexa 8, Noah 4 1/2 and Amber just turned 3. So here is my opinion based on watching my children use it-as well as several un-craft related adults.
First the Pro’s
This machine is really cute. Its lightweight, and the base is really sturdy. My 3 year old can pick it up NO PROBLEM! Easy to store.
It has little suction cups on the bottom to help it STICK to the surface! TRUST ME you will need them! And they really do stick well. Dont let them try it on the carpet like I did! I will rock side to side as they try to feed the dies through.
It measures 6 inches across, and 4 1/2 inches high.
It doesn’t have the fold out panels like the Cuttlebug does-which for kids is great! Nothing to break OFF! Has the feed opening and thats it! Pretty straight forward.
Its affordable-in my opinion, for a die cut machine-even if its listed for kids. It lists for $32 retail. Cuttlebug machine lists for $69.99. Both a great value.Its cuts very well. An adult could use this for their own machine. I know I am trying to not sneak it down to my craft room, cause they will NEVER see it again! LOL! Plus you can most likely get it with a coupon!The dies are also affordable. Compared to the cost of regular machine dies-primarily the alphabet sets, the dies are reasonably priced-see comparison below:
Cuttlekids price is to the LEFT / Cuttlebug price is to the RIGHT * 4 pack dies $10.50/ 2×2 4 pack in Cuttlebug $15.99
*Alphabets/numbers from $18 to $50 (large set ONE letter per square)/ Cuttlebug alaphabets $79.99
* 2 Step Dies-really cute assortments for only $5.50 / they are $6.50 for Cuttlebug 2 step
The dies are the same size, as far as the finished image, as the regular dies you would purchase. So they are a great deal.
I assumed the dies for the kids machine would be chincy and the finished die cut would be tiny. NOPE-great size! No tiny shapes here.
Another PRO-you can use the Cuttlekids dies in the Cuttlebug! WAHOOOO!!!!
***But you may need this little Sizzix Sidekick adapter biscut to give the right thickness for a crisp clean die cut in the Cuttlebug depending on what you use for cardstock/patterned paper. ***
Another PRO- after a few times demonstrating the SANDWICH needed to use the machine, even my 3 year old was able to do it-independently!
CONS
This is the description for Cuttlekids- copy/pasted from their website —————————————————————————————————-
*Meet the Cuttlekids™ Shape Maker, a fun way for parents to help get kids excited about crafting!
This colorful mini die cutter easily cuts adorable Cuttlekids dies in seconds, providing fun paper and craft foam shapes and letters to make toys, gifts, and decorations. School lockers, bedroom doors, and birthday invitations - just to name a few - will never be the same!
Check out this exciting new line, you’ll see there’s so much you can do with Cuttlekids*
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The MAJOR thing I found to be difficult was the fact that my children had a hard time getting the handle to turn, as the die cut/cardstock passed through the center. They often got frustrated and needed me to jump in and help.
Unlike the advertisment states “This colorful mini die cutter easily cuts ”
Well , it does cut NICELY, but not EASILY. Even ‘I” had a hard time cranking it through the machine at times. I had some other adults at Alexa’s party try it, and while it was a hit, that was the big complaint. And we are talking a SINGLE layer of cardstock.
You cannot use your Cuttlebug dies/embossing folders in the CuttleKids machine! The Cuttlekids opening is sized ONLY for the Cuttlekids dies.
Cuttlekids dies are made with like a sturdy thin cardboard top. The foam layer also appears thinner than the cuttlebug dies. The Cuttlebug one’s are made with a metal top, and thicker layer of foam, simply would not fit.
Another CON-and not a biggie-but there are NO embossing floders for the kids to use! That is a bummer. Especially with all the Disney stuff coming out soon. I know I dont want my kids thouching MY Cuttlebug.
SOOOO-Overall I would totally recommend this product. I actually LOVE the dies, and think the alphabets are a phenomenal value, as they are quite similar to the larger/more expensive ones offered for the Cuttlebug. And since I can use the Cuttlekids in my Cuttlebug that ROCKS!!!
I also think if you are just getting into papercrafting and are working on building your supplies-this would be a great starting place.
I found it to be a great tool to help kids make their own paper crafted creations! Its also safe, and there is nothing visibly potentially harmful. I even crammed my own fingers in there and CRANKED the handle! No problems-no squeezing or squishing motions.
Another PRO-kids can crank through (even if its hard to-LOL) paper without supervision, and worry of them coloring themselves in ink!
My children had a great sense of accomplishment after cranking though some images. A great activity.
They got use to the difficulty they often faced trying to crank through cardstock, and found patterned paper and old scrap wrapping paper to work much easier for them! So that would be my fix for the con of cranking through cardstock!
So now I would love to hear YOUR opinion, or any questions you may have that I hope to be able to answer!
Its been a while since I posted a review and I’ve gotten alot of questions about the Scor-Pal since posting my Window Box Tutorial link , and my Make your own envelopes link.
What is the Scor-Pal?
Well in my own words, its a lightweight, heavy duty plastic board, with deeply etched grid lines, that enable’s you to make nice, deep, straight, crisp scores on the lightest weight paper, to the heavy duty cardstock without problems! You don’t even have to move your paper-unless you need to score going the other direction!
This tool was designed by Diana Crick, and can be seen HERE. It costs $39.95 plus S/H for US.
It arrives with instructions and a mini tutorial when you get it!
There are lots of great tutorials on the site, with photos, and step by step directions, which are very helpful. I myself an a very visual person! I often dont need directions but can figure it out by examining it. Must be my nursing skills shining through! LOL! More tutorials are planned in the future, which I think its neat for her to be so concerned that you get the maximum use from your Scor-Pal once its purchased! Alot of places dont care to continue to entertain uses for their product once its in your home.
Let me start by saying that before getting a Scor-Pal, I rarely scored my cards! I would often just fold them in half-then use a Pampered Chef stoneware scrapper (if even that) to get a crisp seam.
The result of that-due to heavy weight cardstock, would often be a cracked looking seam, sometime’s a bit crooked, and I would have to turn the card-inside out! NOT COOL!
The other way I would score my own designed boxes and whatnot was using my Fiskars Paper Trimmer
It had a scoring blade, that you could attach to the rail. While I didnt mind using that from time to time, it was annoying to change out the cutting blade, then keep sliding my paper along the the measurements I needed scored!
This is where the Scor-Pal comes in. I am now wondering HOW I made all that stuff I did without it! Since getting it, it has saved me time, and frustration, and gives me a real professional crisp line.
I planned on putting it under my desk after using it, but it hasn’t left my workspace since day 1.
I LOVE the fact that I dont have to even pick up my paper ONCE! I just score along the grid.
The grooves are deep, so no slipping out as you run your Scor-Tool down the line. I really like the little holder provided at the top of the Scor-Pal that holds that little Scor-Tool. I am one who would DEFINITELY “misplace” it if I didnt have that little holder! LOL!
It even had a button that allows you to POP it out of the holder! So no breaking those nails or getting annoyed that its “stuck” in there.
There is also a special slot under the Scor-Pal for another Scor-Tool! You can never have enough of those right? LOL!
The Scor-Tool in itself is cool because it’s shape makes it easy to grasp, and of course it fits perfectly in the grooves. It just has a nice “feel” to it, and isn’t made of anything that leaves those shiny marks on your paper like other tools might.
OK Now for the ONLY part Im not thrilled about. It really does need a few more scored grooves. Like at 1/4, 1/2 and 3/4 inch. You can of course start to score at the 1/2 inch mark, which you can find at the far end- 11 1/2 mark. This gives you that 1/2 groove. But there really is no beginning 1/4 or even 3/4 inch mark.
I have moved my cardstock along the Scor-Pal to get a groove where I need it, and at this point I’m OK with that.
I was told that a NEW Scor-Pal is in the works with MORE grooves! YEAH!!!
Diana is great about listening to what people think, and want.
At this point I use this tool EVERY time I stamp now! I feel like it was money well spent. Since I work on several design teams just mediocre work doesn’t cut it. Even if I weren’t I think we are always looking for ways to improve the overall appearance of our items.
I’m open to any feedback or questions you have!
Hope you get to try one out, or if you have one, lets hear your opinion on it!
Here I would like to share a quick bag cover I made using the NEW! Paper Trey set Beautiful Blooms.
Click on photos to enlarge. I just cut the top off one of her frosted Tin Tie Top Bags, and made a cute coverlet. The top flap slides under the ribbon to keep it closed! How cute would these be for gifts or favors at a Bridal Shower or Wedding even!
Thanks for looking!
Check out my article ———>HERE today on the Craft Critique!!!
Leave a comment there to let everyone know what you think. Id love to hear of you have one too!
A Tool Taxi.
What is it? Its a 6 tools in one, made by Fiskars.
What you get-You get this pink tool, that has clear glue with applicator, a rubber adhesive eraser, tweezer attachment, hobby blade, embossing stylus, and a rub on stylus.
I tokk it apart to give you a visual of the pieces. The double ended attachment-easily twists on and off for easy exchange of tool.
Why is it called a tool taxi? Well, I honestly have NO idea. I think the name is strange considering its use, but hey, it works right.
How much did it cost? I got mine at Target for $7.99. Pretty good deal for ALL that in one item.
If you break down the “possible” cost of these items separately (averaged from my past purchases, not exact quotes)
embossing stylus-about $3+
adhesive eraser - $2 +
rub on stylus- HMMMM, never seen one to buy, but I guess a Popsicle stick is just about free.
hobby blade- can run $2-$8 depending on how fancy shmancy you go.
tweezers-again not entirely sure- we will go with $2
glue- again say $2
Bottom line-getting it all in one-PRICELESS!
You could save a considerable amount of money I suppose.
Why did I decide to get one? Cause I’m all about consolidation. Plus it looked cool. If I can get 6 tool in one then it was worth trying out. It saves alot of space, and searching for what tool I need.
How does it work? Well its kind of cool. The attachments twist on and off. and store in the cap. Its a neat littel gadget.
What else do I like about it? Well I LOVE the stylus. I have the cheapo $2.50 wood stylus from Stampin Up! and have always liked it better than the Empressor stylus that costs about $10. I think the smaller head allows you to get into smaller spaces when dry embossing, and gives a crisper embossed image.
(sneak peek at an upcoming set)
Hobby Blade-I absolutely LOVE this part of the tool, because again the handle style on this gives me the control I need when using this. (No Photo cause I really didnt feel like slicing anything today! LOL)
Tweezers-these work really well. Especially for placing the little rhinestones on things. These are however, not the type of tweezers you’d use to hold an image you are heat embossing because you have to pinch them closed. I dont generally use tweezer alot anyhow.
Adhesive eraser- I like this one because its smaller than the other honkin huge erasers I have. When you have that little bit of runover, it gets right into that small area much easier. Again that contoured handle is great.
Rub on stylus-HOLY MOLY! Let me tell you once you use this thing you will NEVER use a Popsicle stick again. My rub-ons just went on so easy using this stylus. Im in love!!!! Usually after applying rub-ons (an item Im getting more into), my fingers would kill from rubbing with the Popsicle stick-no longer my friend.
Glue-OK I could do without the glue! Honestly havent even tried it. Id rather stick with my Tombow mono-multi and other things like that. Im sure it could be cool in some way.
So, this tool sells me because I like the way it handles for use with all the attachments. I like the all in one feature, and feel its reasonably priced!
If you decide to get one Id love your feedback on it.
Here is a submission REJECT I’ll share using my stylus.
I used the rub-on, SU! Oval punch, and horizontal slot punch for the reindeer. Used wire for the antlers. I designed the box myself. The band wraps around the entire box.
The stamp you see on the tag is by Green Grass Stamps, and can be seen HERE. Its called Christmas Cards.
Thanks for reading.