Crate Paper

It's a Wrap - February

 

Hello there! It's Tara here to introduce Crate Papers newest monthly post "It's a Wrap!" We wanted to devote the very last day of each month to showcase a new gift-wrap tip, trick or just a simple idea - accompanied by a few pretty photos. I can't think of a better way to wrap up the month! 

When it comes to gift-wrap my motto is always: I want the gift recipient to feel special when I hand over their gift. 

I think when we spend extra time choosing the perfect present for a loved one that the gift-wrap (presentation) should deserve just as much of our time. Gift-wrap, in my mind, is very much a part of the actual gift that we are giving.  

 

Getting Started

 Just like gathering scrapbook supplies for my color-challenge, I typically gather my supplies for gift-wrap based on a color combination. This time I went with soft Spring inspired colors; white, creams, light pinks, sparkly golds and a pop of coral red. With the help of some vintage trims mixed with re-purposed papers and a couple of StoryTeller journal tags, I was able to create a trio of gift-wrapped boxes perfect for a fanciful baby-shower.

 

 

When attending a baby shower, I love wrapping small gifts into multiple boxes. I like the look of smaller stacked boxes.... it reminds me of a 3-tiered cake! A cozy baby-blanket fits into a box wrapped with vintage tissue paper, petite onesies are placed inside a box wrapped with weather/atlas pages and a few baby toys find a home inside a box wrapped up with textured wall paper and over-the-top embellishments. 

 

I try to choose one main accent to adorn the gifts, here it is a cream silk yo-yo and plastic leaves covered in gold glitter. These StoryTeller tags were a perfect match for the top of my gifts! I used a typewriter to type a greeting and left a larger tag for a handwritten sentiment, I tend to pair different size tags together for visual interest. Plus, the map print ties into the atlas pages I used to wrap with! 

Lastly, to securely keep the gifts together, I used tulle wrapped around the gifts and tied into a bow at the top to ensure easy traveling to the party!

I hope you enjoyed our first installment of It's a Wrap! I'll be working each month to bring the Crate Blog a new and hopefully exciting way to wrap those everyday gifts! See you next month ~ Tara

Craft with Crate w/ Roree Rumph

 

Hi everyone! In honor of Valentine’s Day this month, I wanted to share with you a fun home décor project that I created with a “Love” theme.

I absolutely LOVE to make paper flowers… all kinds. They can be so beautiful, and they last way longer than regular flowers. And best of all you can choose your colors and patterns to coordinate with wherever you want to put them. I had a grapevine wreath just waiting to be decorated, so I thought it would be perfect for this project.

The Essentials: Paper Heart Patterned Paper {Defined}, Chipboard Accents, Random Patterned Paper {Wallpaper}, Farmhouse Eclectic Buttons, 6" Grapevine Wreath, Liquid & Foam Adhesive, Paper Piercer, File.

 

I used the Paper Heart collection to create roses and a hanging banner behind the wreath. I love the soft, subtle colors mixed with the bright colors. It makes them ‘pop’.

 

I thought I would show how to create the roses in my project.

 

They aren’t that difficult to make, but they take a little time. I think they are well worth the effort.

Here's what you'll need:

• Patterned paper, spiral cut (I used my Cricut Expression 2 and Flower Shoppe cartridgefor this and cut it at 6”. But if you don’t have a die-cut machine, you can create your ownby spiral cutting patterned paper at your desired size with some decorative scissors.)
• A scrap piece of patterned paper
• Liquid adhesive
• Foam adhesive
• Tweezers

 

Starting at the center, wrap the spiral die-cut tightly using a pair of tweezers.

 

While holding the bound die-cut in your hand, place a piece of foam adhesive on the scrap piece of paper and add liquid adhesive around it.

 

Let the die-cut go and as it starts to unravel, center it over the foam adhesive. (This will raise the flower at the center.) Hold it in place for a few moments until the adhesive starts to set. Let it dry completely.

 

After it has dried, gently bend the petals back with the tweezers.

 

Trim off the excess patterned paper.

 

Adhere patterned paper petals to the bottom of the flower, then add adhesive to the bottom.

 

Place the flower on the wreath and hold until the adhesive is set.

 

Now that wasn’t too hard, was it?

Thanks so much for letting me share my project with you all today. I really hope you enjoyed it, and maybe that you will have a go at making some of your own.
Have a wonderful day, and thanks so much for stopping by!

February CP Creative Weekly :: Giveaways

 

 

 

Are you ready to find out who won last week's two "Pretty Party" prizes? First, last Monday, we opened the doors to your feedback. We're always looking to improve this place so that each visit you have with us, is memorable and fun! Some of the ideas we took away from your comments included the presentation of more "mini album" and "card making" techniques. Great to be reminded about them cute mini albums! Also, design basics, and simple projects for documenting the everyday was a popular mention. Think we'll have to add on to "Crate Everyday" now that we know how much you enjoy the feature! Lastly, more embellishment making and detail instruction - focusing inward on the smaller stuff. All together, some great items we'll begin to look into - though, before doing so, here's the winner from Monday's list of comments:

incredible! i'd love to see more on layering - not just paper and elements, but on-the-surface products like stamping, inking, painting, masking, pasting, etc to build up a true depth. thanks for the chance to win and what an exciting new venture! Posted by: Cheryl | February 21, 2012 at 01:10 PM 

 

And for the second winner, our favorite collage perspective from Friday, congratulations to....

My version of collage...When I think of collage I think back to when I was little gluing lots of bits and pieces cut from magazines, stickers, whatever I found and liked... much like my four year old does now. A bunch of randomness glued down to make something fun and meaningful. Right now I have three LOs on my desk I am working on, I have misted doilies with letter stickers layered on top, stick pins stuck into pinwheels, ribbon with brads stuck through it, lots of sewing, stamped images, layers and layers of paper, ribbon, metal...lots of random stuff that somehow looks quite simple, fun, and very meaningful. Posted by: Natalie G | February 25, 2012 at 11:35 PM

Please, to both our winners, email your info to cpblog@cratepaper.com. In the meantime, we'll prepare your prize packs and arrange for them to be shipped as soon as we hear from you! Congrats once again!

~

If you hadn't the chance to visit during last week's premier of CP Creative Weekly, make sure to join us next month, as "Chartruese" is on the menu. The week long feature is scheduled to begin March 19th - a perfect "Spring" introduction!

February CP Creative Weekly :: Collage + Giveaway

 

 

It's the very last day of CP Creative Weekly for the month of February, and that means it's time for a "Pretty Party" giveaway! So tell us, what is your own unique version of collage? How do you go about using it on your projects? In asking you this, we're hoping to gather a host of new ideas to put forth about the subject come next Monday. We'll go ahead and select a set of favorites and from them, we'll select one winner to receive both the papers and stickers from the Pretty Party collection! 

 

Rahel Menig

If you think about it, you use collages almost everywhere! At least I do. We have a bunch of different scraps of paper, notes and art on the fridge and walls. Even in the car there are collages to be had! I personally like them airy and not too layered. That's how I designed my layout - lots of little paper hearts that build a nice and "airy" cluster that can then be called a collage of paper hearts. 

 

Shanna Noel

To me, collage is all about playing with paper in a new way, so I had a LOT of fun playing with the Crate lines to create this cute little village on top a hill. The layout is definitely outside-the-box for me, but I think it still has my style all over it!

 

Lilith Eckels

The colours from the Farmhouse collection are some of my favorites! I really love a selection of the patterned papers as well and wanted to figure out a fun way in which to combine them. I used the light blue pattern paper as the base. I cut out different sized rectangles from each of the patterned papers and layered them on top of my tracing paper. To create detail, I added a few stitches and stamps, as well as some details at the top and bottom of the page - which conveniently establishes balance.

In conclusion, collage is a fun and easy way to experiment with lots of different patterns and colors, so why not give it a try yourself? The possibilities are infinite.

February CP Creative Weekly :: Collage

 

 

Thank-you to the positive feedback in reference to the new CP Creative Weekly! We're sincerely interested in hearing what you have to say about it - if there's something further you'd like us to add to it, just say the word! We're listening, promise.

When you think of collage, do you immediately think of Modge Podge? If so, then take a look at Cindy Cundy's card, the second creation that'll find you here. If you're an ampersand fan, you won't want to miss Sasha Farina's ampersand/collage duo! It's front and centerstage - you won't get past it without at least a glance of it's yellow/pink prettiness made exclusively from CP's patterned papers. 

Sasha Farina

In my head, collage is something formal and abstract, made from lots of different pieces forming a new whole. Did I just scare you away? I hope not. The collaged ampersand on my layout is such a joy to create. I selected a few pieces of paper from our Farmhouse, Random and Paper Heart collection and adhered them in random strips on the large ampersand I cut with the Silhouette machine. I trimmed all the excess manually using my craft knife. Then, I misted the piece lightly with Mister Huey in Calico White to tone down the colors a little bit. Loving the dreamy effect I got as a result. Taking the colors from the ampersand, the rest of the layout came together pretty quickly :)

 

Charlene Cundy

Hi everyone! It's Char here to share a few cards I made using this week's focus feature, Collage! To me, when I'm producing cards, I like to group embellishments and papers that compliment one another. That's why using a single paper collection is perfect - everything matches and goes together beautifully! You can't go wrong! *One last tip, for the card's background, I brushed on a layer of Modge Podge - it creates a subtle sheen that is often recognizable and widely popular in the collage world! 

 

February CP Creative Weekly :: Collage

 

 

A layout can be a source of tremendous opportunity for the delivery of collage. We touched on this very topic yesterday, and are continuing with it today. Though, this time, think about the varied ways in which you might go about the subject on your own scrapbook pages. Are you a simple scrapper that works exclusively with just a few sheets of paper and one or two embellishments? Or, are you more the layered type that can't step away from outputting collage, after collage, after collage? Both styles leave open the door to combining an assortment of elements, it's just a matter of figuring out what works for you! 

 Michiko Kato

My version of collage is to establish various papers and embeliishments on top of paper, freely, and to make art from it - in doing so, I leave ample opportunities for having fun, and forgo all rules! Well, almost all of them - one idea that might help you in going the direction of collage is to create with a single, unifying color. I went with a bit of sunshine, Yellow! :)

 

Latonia Grant

I looked up the definition of collage before starting my layout and I immediately thought of a grouping of something. When I finally sat down to create the layout, it was around my daughters birthday and I just had so many thoughts "flying" around in my mind about her, and the young lady she's becoming. I was stuck for a while trying to decide on what I wanted to create, though I hit upon the idea of "thoughts" and "flying". So, I cut several butterflies from the Paper Heart & Farmhouse collections and kept within the same color family. I then grouped them together to represent the many thoughts that fly across my mind.

 

Piradee Talvana

With the focus of "Collages" this week, I had a fun time creating my layout - experimenting with different textures. For me, when I think of collages, I tend to think of a project that has a mix of textures and elements. And to replicate that feeling, I couldn't resist including a bit of lace, a few misted doilies, some shiny buttons, dimensional chipboard, and a couple of random drops of mist, here and there.

February CP Creative Weekly :: Collage

 

 

In moving ahead with our first presentation of "CP Creative Weekly", today's collage-centered designs go from simple, to expert, in a matter of seconds. There's something for everyone! 

Claudia Shadler 

"I gotta say, I googled "collage" to see what popped up, and there are many versions of it, including mine. I chose the simple route. The page features Paper Heart's patterned paper and chipboard. I'm obsessed with the collection and having difficulty letting it go. I plan to hoard the rest! Because I desired for the page to include lots of color, I chose to go with a circle (pie chart) collage made from slices of patterned paper. I love the way it turned out! Plus, February is a special month for my hubby and me because it's our anniversary month. The page is simple and clean, just the way I like it!"

 

Anabelle O'Malley

"When I began to think about what I was going to do to focus on collage, the words 'shabby chic" sprung to mind. I decided to create a shabby background for a set of cards. To do this, I used several sheets of Random's patterned paper, including pinks and greys. I tore squares from them in different shapes and sizes, and then adhered them to a sheet of cardstock, layering pieces as I went. After I had all my pieces in order, I brushed on some gesso. This 'whitewashed' the papers, but still allowed the patterns and colors to show through a bit. Once dry, I cut the cardstock into 3" x 5" panels. Finally, the fun began! I embellished each card with a punched border of Vintage paper, and I used the border stickers, phrase stickers, chipboard accents, buttons and stand-outs as needed. Doilies and a few gems finished the cards off and further added to the shabby chic look! The collage background is the perfect base for the cards, and I'd consider using the technique again."

 

Stephanie Dagan

"Before the subject of collage presented itself, I hadn't heard of the technique before. I immediately was taken by surprise when I looked it up! I took to it quickly because it opens up a whole new area of creative opportunities. So, for me, collage invoked immediately, an accumulation of small pieces of paper in many colors and pattern styles. For my layout then, I chose a dozen of Crate Paper's patterned papers and accent cards and placed them throughout the background. In unifying them, I did some sewing and applied torn strips of washi tape in differing locations. I then added ribbon and crocheted flowers. Unlike a few of the girls here, I dared not to paint because it scares me a little, and also, I didn't want to impede upon the idea of collage from the perspective of patchwork."

Don't forget to check our previous post's giveaway before you leave! Details are listed at the very end and you still have plenty of time to participate. See you tomorrow!

February CP Creative Weekly :: Collage + Giveaway

 

 

 

Crate Paper is a BIG fan of exploring and implimenting up-to-date scrapbook/project ideas, and we often hope that you'll be inspired by them in a BIG way! This last year, we delivered an endless count of creative prospects via "how-to's" and "sample sharing", along with the occasional"self-guided" challenge. We figure though, that it's time to shake things up a bit, bring about a couple of new inspiring features that will allow us to continue the process of exploring, something we simply can't get enough of...

BIG news then, starting today, we're initiating "CP Creative Weekly", a five-day marathon of design team projects based on a topic/technique that takes to highlighting an ongoing crafty trend. The feature will publish every month and will include a small reflective write-up from the contributing designers. Also, as a fun addition, each week will host a giveaway as well!! The very last day, Lucky Friday, a winner will be randomly chosen from the day's comment pile.  The winner will then be announced the following Monday. Stay tuned for further details - you don't want to miss out!

This week, "COLLAGE" is the focus, and and who better to get us started than our collage expert, Kaori Watanabe? Here's her unique take on the subject...

Kaori Watanabe

"Collage is a natural part of my work. It must always be there for me. It's like free wind that moves throughout while I'm scrapbooking. With collage, I prefer to use vintage ephemera, numbers, and letters. I always feel like there is a palpable rhythm born when I use vintage ephemera w/Crate's product. "

 

Roree Rumph

"Collages are so fun to create. It can be so much easier (at least for me) to work within small spaces than to fill up a full-size layout. For my collage, I knew right away that I wanted to use a frame that I had for my project. I made up twelve 2" squares to fill in the frame by choosing patterns that worked well together, then I went to work sewing and decorating them. The Paper Heart Chipboard Accents were perfect for this! They were just the right size for my squares, and they added tons of dimension and color. I decided to keep with the Valentine theme of February, because I like to have a little love around my home all year long."

 

In establishing "CP Creative Weekly", we're greatly interested in hearing your feedback as to the kinds of techniques/ideas that currently interest you - in exchange for your input, Crate Paper will kindly giveaway a prize package that'll announce next Monday. Have a wonderful day everyone! 

Crate Color Challenge - Winner! (Part 2)

Hey everyone! It's Tara, again. I'm so excited to be back today mainly in part because I'm announcing 2 more winners from our Color Challenge this month! Due to a slight mix-up in the office I realized that I didn't received all of the color-entries and to be perfectly fair I felt these two projects were worthy of recognition as challenge winners! 

Congrats to Gladys Chia! 

I think this card is simply beautiful and perfect for Valentines Day! The colors are stunning too! 

 

and Congrats to: Amber E.!

 

We loved Amber's sweet layout and I loved the garland of locks and keys - it pairs perfectly with the title of her layout too! 

Thank you for joining me today for a part 2 of my Color Challenge! Have a lovely crafty weekend everyone! ~ Tara

A Crate Story w/Piradee Talvanna

 

 

Excitedly, starting today, Crate Paper is introducing a brand new series of trend-motivated blog features. Each is designed specifically to help you keep pace with the latest and greatest ideas in both the scrapbooking and crafting world using our gear. One such trend making headway right now, is everyday storytelling! "Project Life" is a sure example of this, as is our latest release, Storyteller. We love the idea of preserving the small moments, along with the big, using methods that are scrapbook friendly and fun for all. So, we went ahead and designed a new tutorial feature called "A Crate Story". In capturing the everyday, our designers will share their own take on the subject by showing you personalized projects that go beyond the bounds of the multi-pocket page. Each project will be slightly different, though still noticiably "Crate Paper", and will include a follow-up tutorial w/an occasional surprise giveaway!

Our very first "A Crate Story" tutorial is from our CP Gal, Piradee Talvanna:

Ever find yourself wondering what you did a few weeks ago, what exactly your friend said that was so so funny, or the name of that new local band playing at the bar that you just love? Well I do, and it's these little details that I just can't seem to remember at times (still trying to figure out the name of that band).  And therefore, in telling my everyday story, I thought I would share a little something to help me capture those spontaneous moments without ever having to worry about forgetting them again :)

 

In introducing the today's project, here's a peek at the inside of the album. It's a set of "Days of the Week" index cards created using the Random Collection and self-made "Day of the Week" page tabs. The cards serve to collect small post-it notes written throughout the week  (I'm trying to make it a habit this year to write down the little details, including the when, where, who, what, and why). 

 

In taking a closer look at both the Monday and Tuesday cards, they should give you a general idea of how each page is crafted and set-up. Notice the "open" space for storing post-it notes.

 

In introducing this next card, I want to share my creative process in putting it all together. Starting with grabbing all the goodies from the Random Collection, I first cut "the days of the week" tabs and coordinating file folder using the silhouette machine (days of the week tabs are from Loni Stevens designs and the file folder is Silhouette designs).

 

To get started, I cut the base for the Wenesday card from CP's "Denim" patterned paper. I chose a matching Random accent card to go with it and then went about placing everything together; only gluing things down when I was pretty much sure where everything would go.

 

Again, then comes all the embellishments, color comparisons, mixing and matching of elements, and trying to figure out where everything should go before actually adhering it down. Sometimes, to help with the process of sticker placement, I use clear sticker sheets to assist in finding the best location for it.

 

Also when working with sticker elements, sometimes I find myself reaching for the baby powder; especially when I prefer to "pop up" the sticker. First, I position the foam dot'(s) onto the backside of the sticker. Then, before peeling the paper from the other end of the pop-dot'(s), I sprinkle a smidgen of baby powder onto the backside of the sticker. This is to avoid the "unwanted" areas from sticking to the paper later on.

 

Once I have all the elements glued down exactly where I want them, I then remove all the access details with either a cutter, or craft knife.

 

And lastly, when it comes to using brads, I tend to cut off the metal pieces before adhering or popping them up on my projects (especially if there's a lot of layering). It saves from having to poke through one's paper/page to create a hole for brad placement.

 

And there you have it, my Wednesday card...

 

Here are two more cards from the album - I kept the design simple and left extra room for post-it notes...

 

And there you have it, a little something to help me keep track of my daily adventures...Thanks everyone for stopping by!