Whooo's Your Valentine?

Celebrate National Papercrafting Month with an incredible deal—our Whooo’s Your Valentine

kit for only $10! Combine your love of papercrafting with the contents of this kit to create personalized valentines—perfect for classrooms and other group settings.

This darling kit, which retails for $40, can be yours for only $10 when you spend $35 or more in Close To My Heart product from the Autumn/Winter 2012 Idea Book.

This kit offers you a sneak peek at two new Spring/Summer 2013 products: the treat tubes and the silver glitter paper!

Decorate the die-cut boxes with the stamp images, cardstock, and glitter paper. Then attach the clear tube and fill with treats for Valentines in a cinch!

 

Kit includes:

• 12 — Die-Cut Boxes (3 each of 4 colors: Blush, Hollyhock, Ruby, White Daisy)

• 3 — 12" x 12" Cardstock Sheets (Blush, Hollyhock, White Daisy)

• 1 — Sheet Silver Glitter Paper—new product for Spring/Summer 2013!

• 12 — Treat Tubes with Lids—new product for Spring/Summer 2013!

• 1 —My Acrylix® Whooo’s Your Valentine Stamp Set (D-size)

You can use the adorable stamp set over and over again to add lots of love to your cards, scrapbook pages and crafts.

Don't wait until the new year to order this fantastic kit! This promotion runs from December 13th to January 31st, while supplies last. Place your order today and enjoy some crafting time during the holidays!

Happy Scrapping!

Susana

A New Month, A New Stamp Set!

There's always something to look forward to with Close To My Heart. Every month there's a brand new D-size stamp set available for only $5 when you spend $50 or more. Here's this month's fabulous set: Year-Round Cheer.

Only $5! Available until December 31, 2012.

This adorable 12-stamp set has a cute image for every month of the year. Make cards and tags for New Year's, Valentine's Day, St. Patrick's Day, April Showers, Mother's Day, Father's Day, Summer Celebrations, Back to School, Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas with just one set!

Perfect if you're making a new calendar for 2013, or to create an entire set of greeting cards for the whole year! And it co-ordinates beautifully with the November Stamp of the Month, Capture the Date.

To order your Year-Round Cheer stamp set, visit my website or send me an email.

Happy Scrapping!
Susana

A Shining Star

Check out what I've come up with for the Heart 2 Heart challenge!

One of the best new products in the Autumn/Winter 2012 Idea Book is the My Creations Star (pg. 132). This 12" star is sturdy and can stand up to inking, distressing and liquid glue. It makes a great Christmas decoration and is easy to customize and adorn. Each of the stars I created took less than 45 minutes to make from start to finish! CTMH makes it easy to trim papers for the star by providing a cutting template; just click on Ideas and Inspiration on my website.

I made this star using the Pear & Partridge papers (pg. 62), Burlap Ribbon (pg. 124), Create-a-Shade Pearl paint (pg. 133), stick pins and button from the Bling Assortment (pg. 128), a Pearl Badge Button from the Wrangler Assortment (pg. 128) and Sparkles from the Red, Pink & Purple Assortment and Bitty Sparkles (both pg. 127). For the tag, I used left over bling from the Workshops on the go Pear & Partridge Cardmaking Kit as well as a sentiment from the C-sized stamp set included in the kit.

I inked the edges of the papers and the star with Cashmere ink.

To create this star, I printed off the star template, cut out the template for the star sides, traced it onto the patterned paper, then cut out each piece and adhered with Bonding Memories Glue (pg. 135). I strongly suggest a good liquid glue, such as Bonding Memories, to keep the paper flat on the star and the points down.

I used two different papers on each point of the star, creating a nice contrast. I inked the edges of the papers as well as the star with Cashmere ink prior to adhering the papers. When the papers were dry, I inked again, filling in any white spots where the background star showed through.

Next, I die cut a flower and adhered it to the top portion of the star with a Pearl Badge Button for the centre.

To create the bow, I tied the bow from Burlap Ribbon, then lightly painted it with Create-a-Shade paint. This left a pale, shimmery glaze on the ribbon. (It looks quite white in the photo, but in real life, it's more sparkle than white.). When it was dry, I adhered it to the bottom side of the star and added two pearl stick pins to the centre. The bling button was added after threading with some red embroidery floss.

The sentiment, which reads "Christmas is love with all the trimmings", was stamped onto some scrap Cashmere cardstock with Cranberry ink. I trimmed it, inked the edges with Cashmere ink and adhered it to a piece of Olive cardstock. I trimmed and inked that piece as well and adhered it under the bow.

To finish off the star, I randomly added Sparkles on each star point.

The end result is a lovely decoration I will cherish for years to come.

I created a second star for a friend who requested a more religious theme. With the same papers and the Everlasting Life stamp set (pg. 82), I created this star.

I began by printing off an image of the Nativity from the Internet. I trimmed it down to size and die cut a French scroll frame. I inked the edges of the frame with Cashmere ink and stamped the phrase "Gloria" in Cashmere ink around the edges of the frame. While the ink was still wet, I applied Golden embossing power and embossed the sentiments. I inked the edges of the image and adhered to the frame.

I used the whole point image from the star template, cut it out and traced it on the patterned paper, then cut out and folded the patterned paper. I used the lightest of the Pear & Partridge papers and covered the whole star in the same paper, in keeping with my friend's taste.

I thought adhering the large panel to the front of the star would be tricky, but it turns out it wasn't! I just applied liquid glue along the top edges of the start, with an extra dollop in the middle, and applied the panel. I then set it aside, face down to dry. This meant the panel was facing downwards, but it's an excellent effect as the star will we hanging on a door, slightly above eye level and passers by will have an excellent view of the picture.

To embellish the star, I used the same die cut flower as in my first star and the same ribbon and tag idea. This time, I used a simple white grosgrain ribbon and one pearl stick pin, adhering it to the bottom area of the panel. I created the tag, trimming and inking the edges, and stamped the same "Gloria" sentiment in Cashmere ink that I had used for the background frame. I adhered the tag under the ribbon and added a button from the Bling assortment, threaded with red embroidery floss.

To finish off the star, I used red and white Sparkles.

I'm very happy to say my friend loved the star and gushed at length about how talented I am...if she only knew! I just followed the template and cut the papers. It took less than 45 minutes to create this star!

If you'd like your own My Creations Star, place an order through me or through my website. Or why not host your own Close To My Heart Gathering and earn your star as part of your Hostess Rewards? With sales of $250 at your Gathering, you can select Hostess Collections for 50% off! Collection Two (pg. 3) features the My Creations Star, Dakota paper pack, Dakota Compliments Foil Images, Wrangler Assortment, Burlap Ribbon, Irresistibles Houndstooth Alphabet, Paisley Flair stamp set, Rugged Dude stamp set, Casual Expressions stamp set, Barn Red Exclusive Inks pad and a 3" x 3" acrylic block. Over $99 in product for 50% off!

Contact me to book your own Gathering today!

Fancy This!

You know I love a good sketch! This month's sketch challenge at Fancy Pants Designs is this lovely sketch featuring a pennant. I love the simple plan to of this sketch and the possibilities for all that white space!

My take on this sketch follows the basic design using one 4" x 6" photo. I used Dakota patterned papers and Dakota Complements Foil Images (pg. 32 of the Autumn/Winter 2012 Idea Book) as well as the coordinating Paisley Flair stamp set (pg. 33) and Approved stamp set (pg. 45). The letters are from the Irresistibles Houndstooth Alphabet (pg. 130) and the Bakers' Twine is the gray from the Neutrals Assortment (pg. 125).

The coordinating ink colours used with the Dakota papers were Barn Red, Outdoor Denim and Slate.

The pennant foil stickers were perfect for creating an eye-catching title and for dressing up the three stamped paisley images.

The Paisley Flair stamp set is one of my favourites. The images are fun and bold. They can add a rugged masculine touch when stamped in Enchantment colours or a soft feminine flair used with Whimsy colours.

I've used this versatile stamp set to create scrapbook pages, cards and gift boxes. Time after time they create a great look!

This was my first time using and Irresistible product. I was really delighted! The chipboard pieces are sturdy and can stand up to a lot of inking or distressing. The letters took the ink quickly and I could make the contrast in the pattern show up as heavily as I liked. I wound up inking these letters quite darkly with Slate ink then wiping away portions from the inside and edges to create a weathered look.

I'm going to be stocking up on both Irresistible alphabets and the Persnickety Journaling spots!

If you'd like to try these products, just order from my online store or send me an email to place your order.

Happy Scrapping!

You're GREAT

This is a busy cardmaking week for me. Wedding, birthday, thank you...I've really got to get crafting!

Thank goodness for my CTMH stash of stamps, papers and Idea Books!

On my lunch break today, I wanted to take a few minutes to make a thank you card for a dear friend. I really wanted something special and was not feeling particularly creative, so I turned to Pinterest for inspiration. There are so many amazing papercrafters out there!

I really like this card by fellow CTMH Independent Consultant Pamela O'Connor and used it as my inspiration.

My thank you card uses the same placement of pennants, sentiment and bling, but I changed the dimensions of the card and didn't stitch around the border (which allowed me to create my card in less than 20 minutes).

I used the fabulous Casual Expressions stamp set (pg. 27 of the Autumn/Winter 2012 Idea Book), Stella papers (pg. 68), White Daisy Die-Cut Cards & Envelopes (pg. 123) and Bitty Sparkles (pg. 127). The ink colours are Lagoon and Cocoa.

Here's how you can create your own card:
1. Ink front of White Daisy Die-Cut card with Cocoa ink.
2. Stamp star image in Cocoa ink across the front of the card, following the curve. (Tip: start with the centre star and work out.)

3. On the inside of the card, stamp star image across bottom of card, about 1.5" from bottom (Tip: You want the top 1/2 of the star to show.)
4. Trim a 3" x 5.5" piece of Lagoon cardstock and ink edges with Cocoa ink.
5. Adhere to card, overlapping the stars.
6. Trim a 2.5" x 5" piece of Stella paper and ink edges with Cocoa ink.
7. Adhere to centre of Lagoon piece.
8. Trim two 3" x 1" pennants, one of them from Autumn Terracotta cardstock and the other from Stella paper and ink edges.
9. Ink the Thank You stamp and stamp on a scrap piece of paper, then stamp again, without re-inking, onto Autumn Terracotta pennant. Repeal to cover the pennant.
10. Trim a 1.5" x 4" pennant from Stella paper and ink edges.
11. Adhere this last pennant to left side of the card, overlapping the Lagoon cardstock and Stella paper.
12. Adhere the Autumn Terracotta pennant about midway down the big Stella pennant and low enough to hang over the stars.
13. Adhere the remaining Stella pennant next to and slightly above the Autumn Terracotta pennant.
14. Stamp the Your GREAT stamp in Lagoon ink onto a scrap piece of White Daisy carstock and cut out.
15. Adhere to card with pop dots, overlapping pennants.
16. Trim a 1" x 5.5" piece of Stella paper and ink edges.
17. Adhere to inside bottom of card, overlapping stars.
18. Adhere a Bitty Sparkle to the centre of the starts on the inside of the card as well as the card face.
19. Adhere a Bitty Sparkle to the upper left corner and two Bitty Sparkles to the bottom right corner of the Stella paper rectangle.

Happy Scrapping!

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...

Even before I became a Close To My Heart Independent Consultant, I was a CTMH customer. Many of the products I purchased were Christmas themed. There's just something about Christmas products that makes me happy!

Now that I'm a more experienced stamper, I'm really falling in love with the variety of Christmas stamps CTMH offers.

Usually, I make one set of Christmas cards, but this year with all the awesome CTMH Christmas stamps, I'm likely going to be making several different cards in batches. Here's the first one!

This card was made using two different CTMH stamp sets: the exclusive C-size stamp set in the Workshops on the go Pear & Partridge Scrapbooking Kit (page 65 of the current Idea Book) and A Timber (from the Autumn/Winter 2011 Idea Book).

Here are the instructions to create this card:

1. Make a 6" x 3 1/4" card from Colonial White cardstock with the fold on the left.
2. Make a 5 3/4" x 3" panel from Sky cardstock.
3. Lightly ink edges of Sky cardstock with Chocolate distressing ink.
4. Stamp snowflake image from WOTS Pear & Partridge Scrapbooking Kit stamp set in White Daisy ink onto Sky cardstock.
5. Adhere Sky cardstock to card front.
6. Pierce holes down right side of card (through Sky cardstock) about 1/4" from the edge.
7. Using White Daisy embroidery floss, blanket stitch through the holes.
8. On a separate piece of Colonial White cardstock, stamp tree image from A Timber stamp set in Olive ink.
9. Without reinking, stamp tree image again on the right, overlapping first image.
10. Cut out stamped trees and adhere to front of Sky panel, about 1" from the bottom.
11. Stamp star/swirl image from A Timber stamp set in Slate ink across bottom of trees.
12. Stamp star image from A Timer stamp set in Cranberry ink above the darker tree.
13. Adhere a Bitty Sparkle to the Cranberry star.
14. Trim a 7" length of white ribbon and stamp Happy Holidays from A Timber stamp set in Slate ink towards the left end and trim a chevron end.
15. Fold right end of ribbon twice and secure. Adhere ribbon to Sky cardstock, above trees.
16. Add Pear Badge Button to ribbon.

Voila! A lovely holiday card!

It may seem like a lot of steps (and the stitching does add time), but you an easily make a batch of these cards in an hour or so if you do all the stamping for each element at once. For example, if you're making 20 cards, cut all the cardstock at once, stamp all the same images at once, etc.

This would also make a great cardmaking project for a girl's night with 3 or 4 friends. Each person takes on a task (i.e one person does all the snowflake stamping, one person does all the paper trimming, etc.) then the cards are assembled once the pieces are ready.

Keep watching my blog for more Christmas card ideas.

Happy Scrapping!

Join Me on Facebook!

I'm trying to give my non-scrapbooking friends and family a break by distinguishing my CTMH related posts from my personal posts on Facebook. To that end, I've created a business page on Facebook.

Like my Facebook page to keep abreast of current promotions and happenings. I'll also be posting artwork, how-to videos, tips and links of interest.

And of course, you're welcome to share! I'd love to see your artwork, using any product!

Happy Scrapping!

Capture the Date! Capture the Savings!

This month Close To My Heart has a special promotion for all of us who love stamping. When you place your $50 qualifying order and purchase the versatile November Stamp of the Month, you get an additional 50% off another stamp set!

Have you had your eye on a special alphabet stamp set but have been putting off purchasing it because of the price? With this promotion, you can get a big alphabet stamp set (regular price $29.95) for only $14.78! That's an E-size stamp set for less than the price of a D-size set. And the 50% savings applies to all regular priced stamp sets in the Autumn/Winter 2012 Idea Book and the Spring/Summer 2012 Idea Book. That's hundreds of stamps to choose from.

And if you're starting to think about the holidays, this is a great way to get some fabulous Close To My Heart products for yourself and a 50% discount on a stamp set to give as a gift.

Want to check out the November Stamp of the Month for yourself? Come visit me at the Admiral's Walk Clubhouse on Sunday, November 4th, from noon to 4PM. I will be there with a great selection of Close To My Heart products and a few projects made with "Capture the Date".

Happy Scrapping!

Meet me at the Clubhouse!

Get a jump start on your Christmas shopping!!

Meet me at the Admiral's Walk Clubhouse in the Port of Newcastle for a Crafty Christmas Bazaar. On Sunday, November 4th from noon to 4PM, I'll be at the Clubhouse with a bunch of great Close To My Heart products.

Come see what's in store for Christmas! From Christmas cards to decorations and ornaments to gifts, Close To My Heart everything you need to craft yourself some special, handmade Christmas magic.

I will be taking orders, booking Home Gatherings and will have gift cards available.

See you Sunday!

Avonlea Workshop on the Go Kit

I love the Avonlea papers. The mix of Avolean Teal, creams and browns is beautiful and calming. I love the shapes on the patterned papers and stamps too.

I knew I wanted to scrap something special with these beautiful papers and immediately thought of the photos I'd taken on Father's Day last year. The layout from the Avonlea Workshop on the Go Kit was perfect for these photos as well.

What I didn't realise until I began assembling the page, was I'd learn a new stamping technique!

Did you know you can use BOTH sides of an acrylic stamp? I never would have thought of it. If you have an image that's a symmetrical shape, you can stamp the reverse side of the stamp and get a "filled in" image of the shape. The Avonlea kit suggest stamping the reverse side of the doily stamp in second generation ink, then stamping the "regular" side of the stamp directly on top. The result is a perfectly shaped, tone-on-tone image.

I can't wait to try this technique with my other stamps!

Another feature I love about this kit is the velvet rub-ons. They're easy to use and add a great fuzzy texture to the page. Add a few gems and there's a lovely contrast of texture and sparkle.

Even though this kit provides enough product to complete the two double-page layouts, additional recipe box project plus some, I like these papers so much, I think I'm going to have to buy another pack!

Studio J! Try it Today!

October is a great time to try Studio J, Close To My Heart's online scrapbooking tool. This month's promotion offers a FREE Studio J double-pay layout for every 9 purchased. Buy 9 layouts, get the 10th free; buy 18 layouts, get 2 more free!

Best of all, you can try Studio J, anytime, for free. Just visit the Studio J area of my website, create an online account and start scrapping!

Studio J has streamlined the online scrapping process into 4 easy steps:

1. Start a New Project: This is the starting step. When you want to create a new page, or series of pages, click this button to begin.

2. Upload photos: Upload the photos you'd like to scrap directly to the Studio J website. The photos are stored in your project folder and are available for any projects you create in that folder. You could upload all your photos for a particular event and scrap multiple pages under the same project!

3. Select your layout: Studio J allows you to chose pre-made layout templates, give you the ability to alter them or start from scratch with your own design. It's easy to chose the perfect template with the drop down menu that sorts templates by number of photos.

4. Select your paper kit: Studio J has dozens of paper kits for you to chose from. Papers from the current Idea Book as well as papers from past Idea Books. Whatever your subject, there are multiple paper themes to chose from. And each paper kit comes with My Stickease digital stickers. The stickers include an alphabet, borders and different sized stickers. My Stickease may also include title, quotes, tags, frames and more. To make scrapping even easier and faster, Studio J will suggest paper arrangements for the template you've chose. Just select the one you like best!

Now get scrapping! You can change the papers, colours, embellishments , orientation and add text. You can add brads, ribbon, stitching and even distress the papers. Studio J makes altering your layouts easy by suggesting co-ordinating colours.

And you can do all this, make as many Studio J pages as you like, with no commitment. With no membership fees and no pre-paid access, you can use Studio J, as much as you like for free!

When you love your layouts and have decided to order, just check out, approve your layouts and place your order. Double-page layouts are only $6.95 each and come with free .jpeg files you can download within minutes of placing your order. For scrappers who only want .jpeg files, you can order those without ordering the printed pages, for only $2.95 per double-page layout.

I've said it before, I'm a dyed-in-the-wool paper crafter, but Studio J has transformed my hobby. My scrapbooks are almost up to date, I can easily share finished pages with family and friends via email or on Facebook, I'm saving time and money by working on Studio J. And there are no messy scraps to clean up afterwards!

Try it! You'll like it! I did!



Flirty & Fab

I don't often fall for papers with a lot of pink, but the beautiful Flirty papers grabbed my attention.

The Flirty paper pack has bold Raspberry and calm Desert Sand colours with a little bit of Goldrush thrown in. The co-ordinating chipboard elements include the lovely flower images from the papers as well as beautiful butterflies, leaves and even a tree.

The sentiments are autumn-themed and together, the paper packet and chipboard are perfect for photos set in a fall garden or outdoors.

But I couldn't wait for great fall photos. When I received my Flirty Workshop on the Go Kit (complete with the paper packet, chipboard, an exclusive C-size stamp set, gems and additional cardstock) I knew it would be perfect for summertime photos of a trip to Niagara.

My t-shirt goes great with these papers! As do the pinks and yellows of the flowers.

Dress up chipboard with bling!

I used the Botanical and Friendship Alphabet Large for the title, natural Hemp twine for the stitching and dressed up the chipboard with bling. The ink colours are New England Ivy and Goldrush.

As a bottom border, I stamped the leaf stamp repeatedly with New England Ivy ink and embossed with clear embossing powder.

I made a second layout using the Flirty kit, also about a Niagara Parks garden. For this layout, I used Goldrush cardstock as a base, which makes the Flirty Raspberry patterned paper really pop! I also used Colonial White cardstock for the title and journaling spot. The photo mat is made from New England Ivy cardstock and the edges of all the papers have been inked with Chocolate distressing chalk ink.

The lovely scalloped border across the bottom of the page was created using the Gratitude sentiment stamp from the Workshop on the Go kit. I simply stamped a row in New England Ivy across the bottom of page and covered the top 2/3 of the stamp with patterned paper. I added a gem to each scallop.

To create the journaling spot, I simply die cut the shape and inked the edges with Goldrush ink. I used the twiggy stamp with Goldrush ink; stamping it once in full colour and stamping again, without re-inking, for a softer image. For a final touch I added a chipboard butterfuly and different sized gems to both the journaling spot and butterfly wings.

The title is stamped using my new favourite alphabet stamp set: Token Alphabet. This stamp set offers several backgrounds for the inner circle enabling you to create a variety of looks with a single stamp set. For this title, I stamped the mesh background in Goldrush ink first, them stamped the letters directly over in New England Ivy ink. The chipboard sentiment "Beauty in..." is dressed up with 3 mico-mini gems in place of the ellipses.

To finish off this page, I added a large chipboard flower and vines as well as a tied off ribbon from the Designer Ribbon Pink Collection.

These two double page layouts, made with the Flirty Workshop on the Go Kit, are a beautiful addition to my album. And with lots of papers, cardstock, chipboard and bling left over, as well as the stamp set, I still have enough for another scrapbook page, cards or another project. What a great value!

The Big Reveal!

Here it is Scrappers! The Autumn/Winter 2012 Idea Book! Just click the link and start browsing.

The new Idea Book is full of new products and ideas. Here's a short list (yes, this is actually a SHORT list) of my favourites:

* Exclusive Inks Mini Pigment Pad Sets (pg. 3/$19.95): These 10 pad sets in 4 new colour families make it easy to purchase all the colours you need for stamping and colouring.

* Workshop on the Go Card Kits (pp. 22 & 66/$29.95): Everything you need to make 15 cards per kit and lovely stamps sets you'll use over and over again.

* Pear & Partridge Paper Packet (pg. 62/$9/95): It's whimsical and traditional. A beautiful Christmas palette with a burst of Smoothie. The pear and partridge images are just too cute!

* Jardin Stamp Set (pg. 39/417.95): These romantic images are perfect for Valentines and pages celebrating the one you love.

* Magic Potions Stamp Set (pg. 57/$13/95): These spooky apothecary labels are great for embellishing a Halloween page, or take them off the page and use them to decorate Halloween treat bags. Best of all, the Circut Artiste cartridge cuts all the labels for you!

* Tea Time Stamp Set and Outta This World Stamp Set (pp. 104-105/$13.95 each): For a girl or boy, the cutest birthday invitations are just a stamp away.

* Trinity Alphabet Stamp Set (pg. 115/$29/95): This stamp set should be in every scrapbookers collection. It has 3 versatile alphabets in one set as well as 2 number sets. The largest set is easy to trim and the smallest set is perfect for journaling. If you only buy one stamp set, this is the one to get.

*My Legacy Faux Leather Albums (pg. 121/$24.95): A great price for a great product. I've tried many different albums over the years, including the high-end ones, and this one is the best I've encountered, hands down! These are the only albums I'm buying here on in. (Make sure to get the Label Holders (pg. 122/$4.95) to easily identify your albums.)

* Burlap Ribbon (pg. 124/$7.95): It's rustic. You can stamp it, distress it, cut it into shapes. A must have for autumn pages.

* Velvet Rub Ons (pg. 126/4.94): You may have a hard time choosing between these 4 different rub on sets, but at this price, why not get them all?

* Display Tray (pg. 129/$19.95): Trending with scrapbookers everywhere, the display tray allows you to show off special photos and memorabilia. See page 89 for a dressed up tray.

* My Creations Canvass Journal (pg. 132/$8.95): So versatile and useful, for personal journals, notebooks, gifts. I'm going to be stocking up on these!

* Studio J (pp. 12-13): No more membership fees! New Express Collections! New papers! Best pricing! Digital scrapbooking is easier than ever!!

There are so many more new and amazing products. Pour yourself a cup of tea, sit back and enjoy flipping through and exploring each page. If you'd like your own hard copy of the catalogue, just email me.

When you've made up your wish list, contact me to book your own Home Gathering--the best way to start shopping!

Happy Shopping!

Stamp of the Month

Each month you can enjoy a new D-size stamp set, available for one month only, for just $5—that’s over 70% off retail! When you place an order of $50 or more in Close To My Heart products, you qualify for this special Stamp of the Month pricing. For customers who prefer to place smaller orders but would still like the stamp set, it's available to purchase at the regular price of $17.95.

These lovely stamp sets are only available from the first to the last day of the month and are not offered for sale at any other time. They are often themed and available a couple of months in advance of the occasion, allowing crafters lots of time to use their stamps and prepare cards and scrapbook pages ahead of time. For example, the Christmas theme stamp set is available in October, giving you most of October and all of November to prepare your Christmas cards!


July SOTM available until July 31, 2012

In addition, each stamp set comes with suggested ideas--cards and scrapbook pages--using the stamps. You can follow the pictures on the package, or you can visit my website and click on the Stamp of the Month link under the Special Promotions tab. There you'll find a supply list of items used to complete the projects as well as Helpful Hints on how to assemble the projects.

The July 2012 Stamp of the Month is a lovely set of inspirational sentiments that make great page titles and sayings for cards. This will quickly become a go-to set for graduation, friendship and anytime cards.

With a new month just around the corner, here's a sneak peek at the August Stamp of the Month.



August Stamp of the Month available August 1-31, 2012

The Baroque Borders set has a lovely old world flair. With large flourish stamps and classical shapes, this stamp set is perfect to adorn corners or create your own patterned paper. It's elegant enough to use for special occasion pages, such as weddings and anniversaries, and rustic enough to use for vacation and outdoor pages. Stamp in dark colours for a dramatic effect or in subtle tones for a subdued one.

The Stamp of the Month is a great value and a terrific way to build up your stamp collection with minimal cost!

Tomorrow's blog: THE BIG REVEAL!


Shopping and Saving

Shopping on my CTMH website is easy as 1-2-3: Visit, browse, buy.  Then in about a week, a package filled with your goodies arrives on your doorstep. It couldn't be easier!

You can shop on the website a couple of different ways. You can view the Idea Book online and jot down the items numbers of the products you're interested in. Then enter the item numbers in the product search box. Or you can click on the Shop tab and browse various categories: New Products, Special Promotions, My Reflections Scrapbook Products, My Acrylix Stamp Sets, Exclusive Papers, Exclusive Inks, Accessories, Albums and Accessories, Studio J Items, Circut Collection, Workshops on the Go Kits, Stamp of the Month, and While Supplies Last.

These categories are self-explanatory, but I want to draw your attention to 3 categories:

New Products
Clicking on this category will give you easy access to everything in the current Idea Book that is new and did not appear in the previous Idea Book. Here you'll quickly find all the new Workshops on the Go Kits, Accessories, My Acrylics Stamps and more. If you know the item you're after is exclusive to the current Idea Book or you're only interested in new products, not what has been available previously, shopping via the New Products tab will simplify and expedite your online shopping.

Special Promotions
Every month CTMH offers a special promotion, in addition to the Stamp of the Month, that offers a special incentive or special value to customers. The Special Promotion is often linked with a celebration--such as the Dotty For You papers offered to celebrate National Scrapbooking Month and the special stamp sets to celebrate National Stamping Month (look for that in September!). The Special Promotion in July is Perfect Pairs. (You still have time to take advantage of this great promotion. Visit my website for more details.) With orders of $75 or more, you receive a paper packet and matching embellishment, a Perfect Pair, for free! Visit the Special Promotions section of my website every month to discover what's new.

While Supplies Last
Did you know my website has a bargain bin? The While Supplies Last area offers discontinued CTMH products at reduced prices. You'll find everything from patterned papers, chipboard and ribbons to inks, cardstock and embellishments. This area changes often and items are removed without any warning. Once they're gone, they're gone! So if you spot something in the While Supplies Last area snatch it up before it's gone! Recently added to this area are the remaining packages of 8.5" x 11" cardstock. Now discontinued, these are the last cardstock sets in this size in these colour palettes. If you scrapbook in this size or like the smaller sized sheets for cardmaking, visit my website and stock up while you can!

Tomorrow's blog: Stamp of the Month

Ideas and Inspiration

With so many kits and patterns to follow, it's easy to get a lot of scrapbooking done with minimal effort. But once you're done with the with the kit or have completed the projects in the Idea Book, how do you reuse the stamps and papers?

If you're short on new notions, just visit my website and click on the Ideas and Inspiration tab. There you'll find videos and patterns for scrapbook pages, cards 3-D projects and more. Learn how to use your stamps to make patterned paper. Take a tutorial on using tools, such as a blender pen or watermark pen. Find out ways to make the most out of what you've already purchased and see what you can do with just a few more items. Keep up to date with the latest stamping techniques.

The Ideas and Inspiration area is continually updated with new videos as well as containing an archive of several years worth of information. You'll find ideas using brand new products and stamp sets you're already familiar with.

My website isn't just for shopping! There's a wealth of information at your fingertips. So grab a cup of tea, select a video of interest and spend a few minutes thinking about how you can take your next scrapbook project from great to amazing!

Tomorrow's blog: Shopping and Saving

Online Scrapbooking For Everyone!

Have you tried Studio Scrapbooking? Studio J is Close to my Heart's offering for digital scrapbookers. Studio J is easy to use, creates fabulous layouts and doesn't require initial or ongoing investments in software or digital paper packages.

Best of all, you can explore Studio J for FREE! Because you don't pay until you're ready to purchase your layouts, you can learn to use Studio J and build you own pages free of charge.

Using Footloose digital papers and stickers.

And with the new Idea Book, Studio J just gets better! You're invited to try Express Collections, a whole new way to scrapbook faster than ever. Each of the six themed Express Collections includes ten unique two-page layouts plus a front and back page, all designed with embellishments, gorgeous My Stickease clusters and unique colour combinations. Just drop in your photos, add your journaling and you can literally create a custom album in minutes. CTMH has done all the work and you can take all the credit! Or you can still choose to design your layouts from scratch--the choice is yours!

Also new, CTMH has done away with Studio J memberships. Everyone has access to the following fabulous benefits:
* Low pricing of just $6.95 per two-page layout--that's less than $3.50 per page!
* Access to ALL kits and patterns.
* Free layout JPG files with purchase of printed layouts.
* Purchase standalone JPG files for just $2.95 each.

For gift giving, you can still purchase Studio J 5-packs for only $47.95. The Studio J 5-pack includes five double-page layouts and JPG files and shipping and handling.

The new Studio J 5-packs no longer come with Memory Protectors, however, if you purchased a Studio J 5-pack prior to July 12, 2012 and haven't redeemed it yet, you will still receive the Memory Protectors.

Using Believe digital papers and embellishments

With so many benefits and no obligation, why not try Studio J for yourself? Just visit my website, click on the Products tab and select Studio J Online Scrapbooking. To enter the Studio J site, you'll be prompted to create a free account. Then you can start exploring Studio J, uploading your photos and creating your own digital papers in minutes.

While you're exploring, be sure to visit the Ideas and Inspiration area of my website where you'll find tutorials on many of the tools in Studio J.

Fast, fun and fabulous! Studio J is a great way to finish albums fast.

Tomorrow's blog: Ideas and Inspiration

Hostess Rewards!

As a Close To My Heart Independant Consultant, I'm always on the lookout for people interested in hosting a Home Gathering. Sometimes customers and potential hostesses don't see the value in hosting their own Home Gathering. They think "I'm already giving you my business. I'm a loyal customer. Isn't that enough?" From my point of view, sure! I love your loyalty and appreciate your business, but there's a very good reason I want you to host your own Home Gathering: FREE STUFF!

Every hostess who sells a minimum of $150 at her Home Gathering is eligible for free stuff. Could you use $25 to stock up on stamps, cardstock and inks? How about $40 or $80? How about a 50% discount on one or more items? How about an exclusive Hostess Collection, valued at $100 or more, at 50% off?

When you host a Home Gathering, you earn Hostess Rewards based on the amount of sales. Check out the chart on page 2 of the Idea Book for the Hostess Rewards breakdown. The minimum sale level of $150 earns you $25 in free products. Consider that the average CTMH order is about $50, and you can see how easy it is to reach the minimum.

When you reach the second level of $250 in sales, you earn $40 in free products and any 1 item in the Idea Book at 50% off. You can use free product credit and 50% off to purchase stamps, acrylic blocks, inks, markers, re-inkers, My Stickease assortments, Complements, My Reflections paper packs, cardstock packs, Workshops on the Go Kits, Studio J layouts and Studio J 5-packs.

In addition, CTMH has put together four value-packed collections that are only available to Hostesses. Use your 50% off to purchase Hostess Collections featuring Avonlea, Dakota, La Belle Vie or Pear & Partridge papers, stamps, embellishments and more. Each Collection comes with a paper pack, My Stickease Assortment, stamp sets, acrylic blocks, inks, embellishments and more.

Collection One features the Avonlea paper pack and My Creations Bracket frame.

Collection Two includes the Dakota paper pack and My Creations Star.

Collection Three gives you the lovely La Belle Vie paper pack and Display Tray.

Perfect for Christmas, Collection Four offers a complete Christmas collection with everything you need to create perfect pages and cards.

You can also host your Home Gathering several ways: traditionally, in your home; as a workshop; as an Online Gathering.

A traditional Home Gathering is hosted by you and held in your home. I will arrive about 30 minutes before the scheduled start to set up my presentation and help you with any of the last minute details. While your guests arrive, I will chat with them and keep them company while you see to their comfort, whether it's getting drinks and snacks ready or answering the door. When everyone is ready, I will give a brief 15 minute presentation on the current Idea Book and point out some of the features of CTMH products. I'll answer questions and provide Idea Books and order forms to your guests. While they browse the products, I'll offer a small, free Gathering Project, usually a small card or bookmark, for your guests to complete individually. Afterwards, when your guests have placed their orders, I'll let you know what the sales were, how much you have earned in Hostess Rewards and help you to select products from your wish list for your order. With as few as four or six guests, many Hostesses find they earn enough in Hostess Rewards to get most of the items on their wish lists for free! When your guests orders arrive, I will deliver them to you and you in turn make arrangements to get the orders to your guests. Seeing your guests again to give them their orders is a perfect opportunity to thank them for helping you to earn free Rewards.

A Workshop Gathering is a fun event for your scrappy friends. You invite your guests and those who are confirmed will purchase the Workshop on the Go Kit. This needs to be done about two weeks prior to your Workshop Gathering. On the day of, I will bring the Kits along with other necessary supplies, such as inks and acrylic blocks, and set up the workshop. When your guests arrive, I will walk them through the Kit, demonstrating how to assemble and stamp. At the end of the event, you and your guests will have a treasured keepsake of a fun time. Your guests will also have the opportunity to shop from the Idea Book, and like a traditional Gathering, you'll earn Hostess Rewards on their purchases.

If you're a busy crafter who cannot or doesn't want to host people in your home, why not host an Online Gathering? This type of Gathering is not limited by time or space. You pick a date, usually about two weeks in advance, and your guests have until midnight of that date to purchase through your Gathering. All purchases count towards your Hostess Rewards. At the end of your Gathering, I'll let you know what the final total is and how much you have earned in Hostess Rewards. Best of all, you can invite guest from anywhere in Canada!! Your aunt in New Brunswick, your BFF in BC, your sister in Saskatchewan, invite them all! Any orders placed through your Online Gathering will be delivered directly to your guest. You'll even receive your own special electronic invitations, reminders and thank you notes for your Online Gathering. All the details are taken care of. You just enter the email addresses, send the inviation and the rest is taken care of.

With these great collections to choose from, FREE products and a great time with family and friends, why not book your own Home Gathering? With the launch of the new Idea Book just around the corner, now is the perfect time to book your Gathering. Be the first to offer CTMH's newest products to your family and friends.

Tomorrow's Blog: Online Scrapbooking for Everyone!

Cards! Cards! Cards!

Stamping and cardmaking. It's a match made in heaven. Close To My Heart knows many of us are not just scrapbookers, we're cardmakers too, and has responded to our need for quick, easy to assemble cardmaking projects with two new and beautiful cardmaking kits.

The Workshops on the Go Avonlea and Pear & Partridge cardmaking kits each come with everything you need to create 15 beautiful cards (five each of three designs): exclusive C-size stamp set, B&T Duos paper, cardstock (in exclusive matching colours), 15 Colonial White cards and envelopes and embellishments.

The Avonlea kit is perfect for expressing your good wishes and thanks. In beautiful, subdued tones, these cards are neutral enough for any occasion and elegant enough to make the occasion special. This kit also features cardstock in a special colour, exclusive to the Avonlea kits: Avonlea Off-White.

The Pear & Partridge kit is festive and shimmery! The tan twill ribbon offsets the bright bling of the Red Glitter Gems and gives these cards a touch of holiday glam.

The sentiments in lovely script and whimsical images of the C-size stamp set achieve a balance of traditional elegance and modern flair. This is a stamp set you will pull out year-after-year.

These card sets are perfect for hosting a workshop at your home with friends. Each kit makes 15 cards, so you can split one kit among guests or order each guest their own kit. Even as single card make-and-takes for your guests, these card kits are a fun and inexpensive way to let your guests get their hands dirty.

Book your Home Gathering today and mention if you'd like to provide a cardmaking workshop or any of the other fantastic Workshops on the Go.

Tomorrow's Blog: Hostess Rewards!

Calling All Circut Fans!

If you have a Circut, you probably know about the amazing Art Philosophy cartridge that cuts over 700 images (fonts, shapes and 3-D items). Just for Circut users, Close To My Heart is introducing a new collection and special Workshop on the Go Kits!

Like the Art Philosophy Collection, the new Circut Artiste Collection comes loaded with 700 images, themed projects, cards, fonts, shapes and 3-D items. It also comes with three D-size stamp sets and three packages of Dimensional Elements in coordinating shapes. You can cut the image with your Circut, stamp it with the stamp set and mount it to the Dimensional Element. All the products work together harmoniously.

You'll never be short on ideas of what to do with your Circut Artiste collection, but if you're looking for quick and easy projects, CTMH has just what you're looking for.

The Workshop on the Go Spellbound Circut Kit works with the Circut Artiste cartridge to create everything you need to create a Halloween party for 8: Treat bags, cupcake picks and liners, soda wrappers, and a spooky banner.

As with all WOTG kits, the Spellbound Circut Kit comes with a C-size stamp set. It also comes with the cute Spellbound paper pack which is only available through this kit. In addition, the kit includes 10 yards of Sunset Baker's Twine, Foundry Pin Clips, jump rings and an instructional brochure which will make bringing it all together a breeze.

The Artiste Collection also comes with lots of shapes for decorating your home for the holidays. With just some cardstock, stamps, ink, embellishments and your Artiste Circut cartridge, you can create these adorable Christmas trees to display, hide treats inside, to use as ornaments or festive place markers. The possibilities are limitless!

CTMH also offers another Christmas decor kit exclusively for Circut users: the Workshops on the Go Advent Calendar Kit. Using the My Creations cubby as a base and the Circut Artiste cartridge to cut the boxes, you can customize your own Advent calendar. Whether you're counting down to Christmas or another special occasion, the Advent Calendar Kit makes it fun and beautiful. Check out this video for details on what's in the kit and how to assemble it: Workshop on the Go Scroll Album Kit and Advent Calendar Kit Video. (Check out yesterday's blog for more of the Scroll Album Kit.)

Tomorrow's Blog: Cards! Cards! Cards!

Jump off the Page!

Scrapbooking isn't just for albums anymore! In the new Autumn/Winter 2012 Idea Book, CTMH brings you two new Workshop on the Go Kits to decorate your home. Here's a sneak peek at a new take on a mini-album.

The WOTG Scroll Album Kit makes a beautiful display on a mantle or bookshelf and is a wonderful gift. This four foot kraft paper scroll on a large wooden spool can be displayed open, showing the lovely stickers, stamps and buttons (all included) as well as your favourite photos, or rolled up and tied with a luxurious chocolate grossgrain ribbon.

Like all WOTG Kits, the Scroll Album Kit comes with an exclusive C-size stamp set that is only available through the kit and will not be available for sale individually or in any other Idea Book.

The easy to use instructions will have you quickly assembling this project. In as little as one hour, you can have it ready to display in a special spot in your home.

Because it's easy to use and can be assembled quickly, the Scroll Album Kit is an excellent choice for a Home Gathering Workshop. Simply invite friends and family and order one Scroll Album Kit for each person attending. Leave the rest to me. I will show you and your guests how to assemble the album and bring additional supplies, such as ink and blocks, saving the expense of purchasing them separately. Best of all, with as few as four guests, as the Hostess of a Workshop Gathering, you qualify for $25 in FREE CTMH products.

Contact me today to book your own Workshop Gathering.

Tomorrow's Blog: Calling All Circut Fans!

10 Day Countdown!

The countdown to August 1st is on! In just 10 days, the new Close To My Heart Autumn/Winter 2012 Idea Book is available! Keep visiting this blog over the next 10 days for sneak peeks at what the new Idea Book offers. Then visit my online store, www.susanagomes.ctmh.com, on August 1st to view the Idea Book and draw up your wish list. Want a hard copy of the catalogue? Just send me a message and I'll get one to you ASAP.

What will you find in the new Idea Book? CTMH is in the midst of upgrading and rebranding. You'll see a new look on the packaging as well as many new products.

Have you longed to have all the Exclusive Inks colours but couldn't spend $5.25 each for 60 colours? CTMH has made it easier for you to purchase the entire rainbow! CTMH has reduced the number of colours to 40--don't worry, many of your favourites are still there--and is introducing mini pigment pad sets.

Purchased as a colour family set (Basics, Enchantment, Adventure and Whimsy) of 10 ink pads for $19.95, you can stock your stash with every designer colour you've been after.

And of course, the new colour families are still available in the large stamp pads as well as reinkers. You can also purchase coordinating 12" x 12" cardstock in packages of 24 sheets.

But that's not all! With the last Idea Book, CTMH retired its popular line of Exclusive Inks markers. They have been replaced with a new line of alcohol ink marker sets available in the new colours. Each marker set, available for $5.95, comes with 2 coordinating shades. Perfect for colouring stamped images, these markers will be a must-have for your stash.

There's so much more to tell you about CTMH's amazing new products! Visit my blog tomorrow to find out about the new Home Decor Workshops on the Go Kits. Make it even easier for yourself by following my blog. Just click on the button at the bottom of the screen.

And just for fun, when my blog reaches 30 followers, I'll have a give away to celebrate! Join and spread the word!

Tomorrow's Blog: Jump off the Page!

July is the Best time to Buy!

Anytime is a good time to order fabulous Close To My Heart products through my on line store. Easy to use and open 24-hours, my on line store allows you to order items from current and past Idea Books.

But this month in particular, there are some great reasons to buy on line:

Have you visited my on line store lately? (Just click on the link to the left to get there!) Did you notice the "While Supplies Last" link? This link takes you to a Close To My Heart "clearance bin". The items listed here are deeply discounted. You'll find papers, ribbons, embellishments and ephemera not available in the Idea Book and only available on line. With bargains starting at only $1, you'll find something you love to turn you cards and scrapbook pages into treasures.

July is a great time to order through y on line store! Perfect Pairs is a special on line-only promotion throughout July. With a $75 qualifying order, you get a Perfect Pair (paper packet and embellishment) for free!

Have you checked out the Stamp of the Month for July? The "Live Out Loud" stamp set is only $5 with a $50 purchase. This lovely C-sized set contains beautiful sentiments in eye-catching graphics that are perfect for card making and scrapbooking.

And if you place you order by July 7th, why not join the Mystery Hostess Gathering? The Hostess for this Gathering will be drawn by lot. For each item you order through this Gathering, your name will be entered into a draw to win FREE Hostess Rewards! In addition, if you refer a new customer who also places an order, your name will be entered an additional FIVE times! Spread the word and have them mention who sent them.

As always, on line orders are shipped directly to your home--no waiting for a Hostess to deliver the items.

Perfect Pairs, While Supplies Last, Stamp of the Month and a Mystery Hostess Gathering!! July really is the Best time to buy!!

The Perfect Pair

During July, get a free paper packet and coordinating accessory--a Perfect Pair--with every qualifying online purchase.

Place an online order of $75 or more in July and you'll receive a popular paper packet and coordinating accessory--a Perfect Pair--for FREE! That's a retail value of up to $17.90!

Different Perfect Pairs are available on different dates throughout the month so you'll want to place more than one qualifying order to snatch several Perfect Pairs. Place your order early in the availability period, as the promotion is while supplies last.

Perfect Pairs are available as below:

July 1-5: Mischief Paper Packet and Midnight Felt Shapes (retail value: $15.90)
July 6-10: Dreamin' Paper Packet and Harvest Charms (retail value $ 14.90)
July 11-15: Fanfare Paper Packet and Fanfare Level 2 Assortment (retail value $17.90)
July 16-20: Lucy Paper Packet and Lucy My Stickease Assortment ( retail value $17.90)
July 21-25: Mayberry Paper Packet and Mayberry My Stickease Assortment (retail value $17.90)
July 26-29: Sophia Paper Packet and Sophia My Stickease Assortment (retail value $17.90)
July 30-31: Believe Paper Packet and Holiday Pockets OR Wonderland Paper Packet and My Stickease Assortment (retail value $14.90)

To make it easy for you to order and remember what's available when, I've created an Online Gathering for each Perfect Pair. Just go to my website and place your order through your desired Online Gathering. The Gatherings end on the last day that Perfect Pair is available.

To view these amazing paper packets and accessories, visit my website for the 2011/2012 Winter Idea Book.

Please note the following:
* The Believe and Wonderland Pefect Pairs are at CTMH's choice. If you order this Perfect Pair, you will recieve one of those two--you will not be able to select which one.
* Perfect Pairs are valid July 1-31, 2012. While supplies last. Additional shipping/handling and tax may apply. Discounted products do not count towards qualifying purchase.

Great Wolf Mini-Album

I was really excited to make this mini-album ever since I received my Footloose Workshop-on-the-Go Kit. But, I wasn't sure I had a summery-themed series of photos that was worthy of its own mini-album. Fortunately, a few weeks ago, my children and I took a little mini-break at Great Wolf Lodge and I have a perfect album commemorating our special trip!

Front Cover

In addition to the Footloose Kit (which includes the paper, cardstock, stamps and wooden badge buttons), I used the Footloose Dimensional Elements (chipboard shapes), Rustic Alphabet stamp set and CTMH Exclusive inks in Creme Brulee, New England Ivy, Sorbet and Lagoon. A perfect colour palate for water park pictures.

The album itself is the My Creations Memory Showcase: a 6" x 6" album in white with 2 chipboard covers and 4 interior pages. There are a total of 8 pages to decorate.

Inside Front Cover & Page 1

To achieve the multi-colour effect on the stamped images (the sea turtle and sea horse), I simply inked the stamp then added additional colours directly to the stamp using a piece of sponge. Starting with the lightest colour and progressing to the darkest colour works best.





Pages 2 & Inside Back Cover

The large chipboard sun on page 1 overhangs the page. To avoid displaying the back of the chipboard on the next page, I covered it with patterned paper. It looks like a tab and adds a little more interest to the page. This technique was repeated on the back of the pink chipboard piece that peeks over the top of the inside back cover (green tab on back cover).


On the last pages, I layered various elements. On the back cover, 2 "ribbons" (I snipped a chevron end on 2 strips of patterned paper) were set behind the chipboard title which was then adhered with adhesive foam to pop it up. On page 3, the star was added over the chipboard flower and both of these were layered on top if the scalloped title strip.

Back Cover & Pages 3 & 4

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It was trickier to cluster the chipboard shapes and wooden badge button on page 4--the thickness of the chipboard left very little surface for the button and star to be adhered to. I used pop dots to even out the heights of the button and the star, both of which are layered over the sand dollar and wave chipboard, but are actually adhered to the pattered papers.

Throughout the album, I stamped whimsical clams and sand dollars on the wooden badge buttons.

I'm really delighted with this album. The colours, paper and images fit the album theme perfectly.

Do you have some special vacation photos that deserve special treatment? Are you taking a holiday this summer and want to whip up a keepsake quickly afterwards (or even beforehand to add photos to once you're home)? Whether you're taking a cruise in the Caribbean or relaxing at the local beach, check out the Footloose Workshop-on-the-Go to preserve your summer memories.