Crate Paper

It's a Wrap! - August

 

Hello Crate Paper fans! Welcome to another installment of "It's a Wrap" as we say good bye to the month of August. (Where did this month go!) I have a very good craft friend coming to visit us tomorrow and I've been trying to decide on a small welcome gift to present to her upon her arrival. Just a little something that says "welcome friend! It's so good to see you again!"

 When it comes to my craft & scrapbooking friends, I like to give away gifts that I would like to receive! I originally thought that the idea or concept of a little welcome craft themed basket would have been super cute, unfortunately my search efforts for a small-ish type basket turned up nothing useful. Now, I'm not one to let go of an idea once it settles into my head, so I decided to rethink the whole basket idea.. keep the welcome gift concept and just change the container! 

What about a glass jar? I have, at any point in time, upwards of at least 3 dozen glass jars in various shapes and sizes, surely I could find one that would live up to my creative vision. The idea of being able to see through a jar and it's contents being visible made the idea even more playful! Yes, I believe I'm sold on a glass jar! 

After I decided on a medium sized jar with a lid, it was time to think about what to include inside. Knowing that my friend Jessica had already requested something along the lines of a travel kit with the colors: grey & coral, I set about my craft room to create a collection of found, vintage and handmade embellishments! Again, I thought about what type of scrapbooky things I would like to receive and it made the process of putting together this 'Welcome Jar' incredibly easy! 

Here's a few ideas for items to include in a (Craft) Jar:

• buttons
• handmade flowers
• trims, lace, ribbon
• tags, flashcards
• beads
• stickers
• chipboard pieces

 

After collecting everything I could find, I carefully filled my jar to the top!

Don't forget to make a gift-tag! I took my inspiration from the jar itself and created this mason-jar tag layered with chipboard pieces, (from the Pretty Party Collection) a couple of handmade flags and a little row of sparkly rhinestones! 

Here's where I got into an epic debate with myself no less: to wrap or not to wrap? Ordinarily, I'd say always gift-wrap a present - it's the icing on a cake. (and afterall, this series of posts was named after my love of giftwrap!) But, I think in this case the answer is: unwrapped. I love all of the little bits-n-bobs that went into the glass jar and to cover it all up would take away from the whimsy of this gift. So, I'm leaving it unwrapped!  

This welcome jar idea could easily translate into other themes too; a child's birthday, new home, welcome baby, best teacher in the world.... all you need is a jar and a little imagination! Thanks for joining me today and I hope you enjoyed this month's It's a Wrap post! Have a wonderful and creative weekend!

~

Layering Inspiration W/Janna Werner

 

Hello everyone, this is Janna joining you today with a softly-spoken layout featuring vast layers, curled paper edges, and a few pieces of Crate's beloved baby boy line, "Little Boy Blue". Follow along as I show you step-by-step, how to create the layout from start to finish. 

 

As a general guideline, here's a list of supplies used in the construction of the layout:

Project Supplies

{Little Boy Blue Collection}

Patterned Papers (Oliver), Accent Cuts, 6 x 6 Pattern Paper Pad, Alpha Label Stickers, Border Stickers, Phrase Stickers, Lullaby Thickers, Fabric & Epoxy Brads, Wood Shapes

{Miscellaneous}

AC This to That 3 Dimensional Foam Dots, AC This to That Adhesive Runner, AC Precision Writer, Sprays, Sewing Machine

 

I chose Little Boy Blue "Oliver" patterned paper as the layout's background. The pattern is subtle enough that it doesn't impede on the rest of the design. From the 6 x 6 paper pad, I chose papers that matched my photo. To prepare them ahead of time, I distressed the edges with a "torn-theme" scissors and distress tool. If you're without these tools, sandpaper or a nail file, are perfectly ok options.

 

Instead of adhering the 6 x 6 papers directly onto the background paper, sew them together, first. Do not cut the leftover thread from the papers. Let it be.

 

The Accent Cuts include some fabulous tags! I chose one that was within the layout's color scheme and then trimmed it from the sheet.

 

In support of a more shabby chic feel, crumple the tag just cut out and distress the edges as described previously. Afterwards, glue the papers, photo and tag onto the middle of the page.

 

The pattern-side of the Accent Sheet is fabulous, as well! Trim two strips and two triangles from the scraps and position them as shown. Fix them with a smidgen of adhesive, and sew them onto the layout. This prevents the pieces from moving around during the sewing process. 

 

The sticker sheets are amazing! So many gorgeous elements worth trying out! If you would like to use them, but don't want them to stick entirely to the paper, attach them to scrap paper first, and then trim them out. Now you can use 3-dimensional foam dots to anchor them down, or a sewing machine.

 

More bending, curling, distressing, what-have-you. Remember,the goal is shabby chic! 

 

Bring your photo front and center by positioning a wood frame over it. The frame is nearly the same color as my dog's fur, which brings further attention to the photo. Follow that up with some brads - their presence generates randomness and is kind of quirky and fun. And, because the right side of the layout is "heavier" than the left, place the title on the left side using a dark color that matches the ongoing color scheme. 

 

I rarely journal on my pages, but I still love to jot down a few words. American Craft's Precision Pen is available in a number of different sizes. This one happens to be .03.

 

The very last thing you'll want to do is apply "spritzing". It lends the layout a more playful, eclectic touch and fills in some of the white space without drawing too much attention to it. 

At this point, the layout is complete! As you can see, it only takes a few simple steps to create a layout of this kind. Nearly every little detail, when given the chance (such as the hanging thread tails), contributes something special to the big picture. Give it a go and find out for yourself! Hope you enjoyed the write-up!

CP Creative Weekly :: Pattern Paper Challenge Winner

 

 

As you might recall, we shifted the date forward by "one day" for our very first, official presentation of submitted projects sent to us as part of last week's CP Creative Weekly "Patterned Parade" Challenge. We thought the extra day would accommodate those of you that might of been busy over the weekend, or hadn't until the weekend to really sit down, relax and craft a few hours. Like you, we are busy folks as well and know that there's always lots going on, especially this time of year with kids returning back to school and last minute vacations. Hopefully you had a chance to whip something together and submit it to us on time. We don't want for anyone to miss out on the fun - and what's not to love about pattern paper?! Obviously, it's a BIG hit with most our fans given the popularity of this first challenge. Yesterday evening, we hand-selected our favorites. From that group, we chose a winner on the basis of creativity and general design aesthetic. 

We would like to formally congratulate our "Pattern Parade" winner, Cassandra Cyr!

Scrapbook Artist: Cassandra Cyr

When having seen Cassandra's layout for the first time, instantly, the patchwork star caught our attention. So much love and attention went into creating it, and the papers look extraordinary together! In addition, the sewn lines and journaling around the star, make this layout a true WINNER! Congrats Cassandra - you're the proud new owner of both On Trend and Acorn Avenue patterned papers!! Woo-hoo! Please send your info to cpblog@cratepaper.com.

 Here are the faves, a mix of gorgeous cards & layouts that cater above and beyond to Crate's vast pattern paper options...

Card Artist: Gerdine Scherrenburg

 

Layout Artist: Alisa Logue

 

Layout Artist: Audrey Yeager

 

Layout Artist: Melissa

 

Layout Artist: Jesus Villatoro Munoz

 

Layout Artist: Faye Marie

 

Layout Artist: Lilith Eeckels

 

Card Artist: Leigh Penner

 

Layout Artist: Mary-Ann Maldonado

 

Layout Artist: Vanessa Menhorn

 

Layout Artist: Wendy Kwok

 

Layout Artist: Vanessa Menguita Gutierrez

 

Layout Artist: Candice Reszko

Thank-you to "ALL" of you who played along in last week's pattern paper festivities. We take great delight in your creations and can't wait to do it again!! The next Creative Weekly is scheduled to publish the week of September 17th - 21st, and it's theme is TOP SECRET until then! Mark your calendars accordingly and invite your friends - the more, the merrier! Take care!

Crate Paper Baby Card Central

Hi, it's Rebecca here with some projects all about babies, babies, babies! I don't know about you, but there seems to be an influx of new babies in my life. Two friends recently had baby boys, my sister had a baby girl back in June, and every time I turn around, it seems that someone else is expectings. It's okay - few things are more exciting than new babies and baby cards are some of my most favorite to make. 

 

With Crate's Little Bo Peep and Little Boy Blue collections, it has become even more fun to design baby cards! I had so many ideas and so many products I wanted to use. I designed the first card with a baby shower in mind. I had "Hazel", "Matilda", and "Alice" scraps lying on my desk and I liked the way they looked together, so I lined them up and added a strip of the yellow backside of "Alice" across them.

 

I was definitely aiming for a sweet, colorful mix of patterns and embellishments. The pink rosette stand-out, the pink fabric brad, and the impossibly cute wood veneer deer are perfect for adding little touches and texture.

 

~

I designed the next card with a few things in mind. First off, I wanted to show how you could mix both of the Little Bo Peep and Little Boy Blue collections together. Secondly, I wanted to design a card that could be given to a baby boy or a baby girl -- more and more people are waiting to be surprised about the sex of their new little one so it's great to have some gender neutral cards on hand. And lastly, these collections are so cute with their vintage appeal, but when I started to mix paper and elements together, I noticed a more retro feel taking shape and I went with it. 

 

I love the subtle color scheme of yellow, green, and gray, and the pops of natural woodgrain in the "Congrats" tag and veneer stork really work well together. The background paper is "Clara", taken from the Little Bo Peep 6 x 6 Patterned Paper Pad. Also, from the LBP collection, are the stork bingo card and fabric brad. There is definitely a stork theme happening here! The alphabet card is from Little Boy Blue "Oliver" patterned paper -- one of my most favorite in the entire collection! 

 

Layering, along with using bits of this and pieces of that, played a big role in putting this project together. I punched a couple of medallions from the yellow "Leo" paper from LBB, layering a LBB rosette Stand-Out over one of them. Just a small piece of a green LBB Border Sticker added a needed pop of green behind the alphabet card and I cut the striped yellow "Date" strip off of the bottom of one of the LBB accent tags and stitched it to the side of the "Congrats" tag. 

 

~

The last card might be the one closest to my heart! Both Crate baby collections have several different elements that can be used in creating baby announcements. Although I had many ideas and the best intentions, I never got around to making any when my own little guy was born, so I decided I would attempt one now, just for fun! 

 

I used all Little Boy Blue products and mainly stuck with a red and blue color scheme here. I chose the blue with red dots base paper, "Stanley", because it wasn't too busy and I knew I would have several other layers, patterns, and elements to build on top of it. My next step was to choose another subtle patterned paper to matte my photo on and I went with "Oliver" from the LBB 6 x 6 Patterned Paper Pad for that. I added a couple strips of the red scalloped Border Sticker for interest under the picture. If I could use Border Stickers on everything, I would!

 

One of the things that initially inspired the announcement idea was the little accent card with the colorful growth chart on it. It says "He's Here", but I covered that up with the "Introducing" sticker because I wanted to add another element to it. I liked that the card had a space for the name and the birth date, which I immediately filled in! I also used two other accent cards layered underneath it -- isn't that little duck pull toy, the cutest?!

 

I made a little flag with some more "Oliver" paper and a toothpick, and used the flocked Doll Thickers in Red to spell out "Gus". Lastly, the wood veneer duck and the "It's a boy" sticker completed the card.

 

If there are currently a lot of new babies -- or future babies -- in your life, I hope you got some inspiration here today. Little Bo Peep and Little Boy Blue are full of sweet, sweet patterns, images, and sentiments that make creating baby cards incredibly easy and enjoyable. From little boys to little girls to little surprises, they've got you covered!

CP Creative Weekly :: Pattern Paper Challenge

 

 

We're going to chime in here one last time with a reminder of Crate's Pattern Paper Parade Challenge. The deadline for submissions has been extended to Monday, August 27th (12:00pm US CST). We've also pushed forward the winner announcement date by one day. Instead of posting the winning project and runner-ups on Monday, they'll post on Tuesday, August 28th. This is to ensure that "all" submissions reach us on time and are taken into consideration during the winner selection process. We realize that weekends can get pretty hectic for some of you, so we're hoping the extra day will make it easier for those wanting to participate in the challenge. If without the challenge details, locate them HERE. 

And the final two Pattern Paper Parade are waiting for you, just below...

Stephanie Degan

If there's one thing I can't pass up in scrapbooking, it's indeed, patterned papers! I like to mix them, layer them, sew them, etc. Initially, to illustrate this week's Creative Weekly theme, I thought to make a patchwork with lots of little pieces of a paper, but then the picture led me to these two layouts. The first, a heavier version of the second, left me unconvinced! In response, I decided to re-design the right-half of the layout. I created a butterfly stencil/cut-out with the help of my Cameo machine. Behind each butterfly, I glued a different patterned paper. The openness of the cut-out creates a lighter looking layout and easily does away with the addition of extra embellishments. 

 

Rebecca Luminarias

Pattern Parade as a fun challenge and the hardest part was narrowing down which patterns to use since I started out with so many! In the end, I decided to go with a cooler color combo of blues, green, and yellows from Acorn Avenue and On Trend. The colors mix well together and none of the patterns are too busy or overwhelming. My favorite pairing is the yellow-green shell print with the taupe and cream zebra print. I punched a scalloped border from each paper strip and then layered them to create a tiered effect. Because the bottom of the card had so much going on between the patterns, colors, and frills, I wanted to stay relatively simple on the top. A few embellishments from the Story Teller collection did just the trick and the border around the "Notes" card even offered an additional pattern.

 

CP Creative Weekly :: Pattern Paper Challenge

 

 

Sophie Crespy

As soon as I saw the Creative Weekly inspiration for this month, I was drawn the patchwork look and decided to give it a try via Crate's assorted patterned papers. In doing this, I wanted to document some words about a photo of my daughter, and the family cat. I caught them taking a nap together on a quilt I'd sewn. The colors from both Little Bo Peep and Little Boy Blue were a perfect fit for the photo. I cut bits of different patterned papers from the two collections and mixed them on white cardstock. If you look closely, you'll notice that I created a visual triangle with the added embellishments. To help the viewer make his/her way around the patchwork, I created a second triangle using colors. I added machine stitching to underline parts of the patchwork. Overall, I had a blast creating this layout! I recommend creating a patchwork-style background on your next project - it's personal and unique!

 

Teka Cochonneau

When given the task to make a page using many different pieces of paper, I was so excited! Pattern paper is my favorite crafting supply and I love mixing patterns and colors on one page. This particular layout is about a recent trip we took to San Francisco. I love the blues, yellows, and green from the Little Boy Blue collection, and how easily the papers can be used on travel-themed layout. 

CP Creative Weekly :: Pattern Paper Challenge

 

 

Sasha Farina

Patterned papers, something we all can't do without. Or, at least I can't do without. What do you think of when you look at your stack of patterned papers? I always think that they're oh so pretty. I want to use them all! When I got this Patterned Parade assignment in my inbox, I already knew what I was gonna do for it! I gathered several of my favorite patterned papers, not caring from which collection they came from and went to town! I played around with the placements, took away some papers, added more and when I was finally happy with the selection, I was able to use eight pieces of patterned papers on my layout. Can you find them all? I have papers from Paper Heart, Random, Farmhouse, and Pretty Party. They work wonderfully well with each other, I must say. If you haven't already, try mixing the lines! You'll love it! :)

 

Tami Gookstetter

Patterned paper is actually one of the more challenging supplies for me. Usually, I like to work with it in small doses, but for this challenge, I thought why not "go big" and use a whole lot of patterned paper? So, I did! I mixed a bunch of papers from the Little Boy Blue collection to create this fun chevron pattern, and then threw it off a bit by cutting the three main pieces at a diagonal before piecing them together. To emphasize the quilting of the pattern paper pieces, I used my sewing machine to run a zig zag stitch along the seams. I laid my little photos on some white tissue and matted them with a light colored pattern paper as well, all of which I put on the same diagonal slant. Finally, I completed my project with the red doll thickers, which pop nicely against all that patterned paper. Even though I'm not normally a big patterned paper user, I really enjoyed doing something different with this Creative Weekly, and I hope that inspires you to try something new, too!

 

Michiko Kato

I took this photo of my daughter when she was just two years old, and during that time, we took her to the park every day. She was always interested in the playground equipment, especially the swing and slides. She'd run around the park, and after some time, I'd eventually catch up with her. It was a blast to play with her and watch her enjoy herself. Her eyes would always sparkle while at the playground. To capture the feeling of our exciting, adventurous trips to the park, and the happiness expressed by my daughter, I created a layout using lots of patterned papers in bright, bold colors. It fits perfectly with this month's Creative Weekly, too! The layout is charming and sweet, don't you think? 

 

Kimberly Neddo

I love combining different patterned papers together from different product lines with my projects. I find that they don't always need to match to create something pretty. Don't be afraid to mix and match collections together when working on your own projects - it's fun and lends a hint of uniqueness! 

 

CP Creative Weekly :: Pattern Paper Challenge

 

 

If you're just joining us for the first time this week, the Creative Weekly theme is "Pattern Parade". The designers rounded up their own unique ideas for accompanying a blend of assorted patterned paper by bringing them together on either a layout or card, and we're introducing them here for the very first time. Also happening is a "Pattern Parade" challenge! It's time to get your CP patterned paper collection in order because we're inviting you in on the fun! Create a layout, card, or altered project following the Pattern Parade theme, have it to us by Sunday {Aug 26th, 8:00pm CST), and you just might win a Crate Paper prize pack! For all the exclusive details, visit HERE. 

~

Piradee Talvanna

One of the things that I look forward to most with each and every new collection release is the pattern papers; which also happens to be my main source of inspiration when it comes to scrapping. I'm always drawn to the various patterns and mix of colors that you're able to find and sometimes, it's just amazing what you can do with "just" paper :) For this assignment, I was inspired with the chevron pattern and using my left over scraps of paper, I pieced together this fun layout playing on a mix of patterns and colors to highlight the cut-outs. 

 

Janna Werner

As an artist, I'm inspired by almost anything; music, conversations, magazines, fashion, and even nail polish! Although I rarely wear make-up and nail polish, I love going into shops and having a look at the latest trends. I also enjoy surfing Pinterest to seek out inspiration via gorgeous nail art photos. Some nail patterns are amazing! They're truly a layout all their own! So, why not use such a nail layout on your own page?

When I heard about the weekly Crate theme, "Pattern Parade", I browsed the Crate Paper Pinterest board and had a look at the fantastic patterns and photos. I really wanted to bring both subjects together - my love for colors and patterns. This is how I came up with the idea to create a layout with a photo of nail polish, using some of the most adorable Crate Paper patterned papers I had on file.

 

Megan Klauer

I love to mix pattern papers, so this challenge was right up my alley. I began by pulling from two collections: Acorn Avenue & Little Boy Blue. I wanted a combination of bright, yet boyish, and these two collections were just that. Many of my base pieces were cut into 3 x 4 pieces which kept the design consistent. I then layered various sized tags and journal cards from the Tag & Accent Cut sheets. Mixing a variety of patterned papers is the perfect way to use up those scraps, too!

 

Ashley Cannon Newell

Crate Paper makes me love patterned papers. I used to shy away from them, but I just love the various of florals and graphics. I knew I wanted to combine as many patterns as possible using mini strips, so I trimmed lots of them from Crate's patterned papers and sought out inspiration from a quilt! I wove each strip into the next to create an ultimate background pattern. I added a few staples, trimmed a few fun edges, and crafted a sentiment as the card's focal point. This was actually really easy to assemble and came together quickly! I recommend giving the technique a try!

CP Creative Weekly :: Pattern Paper Challenge

 

 

Who doesn't look at a quilt and think, "Now that would be great on paper!"? Whether you're at Flickr, Pinterest, or some sew savvy blog, you can't help but notice the beautiful influx of patterning and stitching common to the everyday quilt. It's sometimes awe-inspiring to study them. Each is as unique as it's artist! The same can be said about scrapbooking. Like quilters and fabric lovers, our passion for pattern motivates the average scrapbooker to collect hundreds of patterned papers (maybe thousands, but we'll not go there). We covet our pattered paper collections. We enjoy the process of bringing patterns together to create scrapbook layouts that support our photos, and stories. In the end, just as in quilting, a layout can take on any number of patterns. There truly is no limit! Patterns are addictive and fun!

This week's Creative Weekly is about maximizing pattern, taking it the next level and making it the central focus of one's design. We asked our CP Gals to create a specialized project based on using a wide variety of Crate Paper's patterned papers. Amazingly, not a two are alike, as you'll soon find out!

Crate Paper is trying something new - we want for YOU to participate in "Creative Weekly" with our designers! We're putting you up to the challenge of maximizing pattern. Here are the specifics:

Create either a layout, card, or altered project following the week's theme and submit it to us by Sunday, August 26th (8:00pm US CST), at cpblog@cratepaper.com. On Monday, August 27th, we'll not only share our favorites, but also, give to one lucky artist, the new Acorn Avenue and On Trend patterned papers. Yes, every single sheet!! We might even throw in a surprise embellishment or two - who knows?!

*Please ensure that your project is at least 70% Crate Paper. 

With that said, it's time to move on and share with you are first set of pattern-forward DT projects...

Kaori Watanabe

I seriously adore pattern papers. Crate Paper's pattern papers are some of my favorite and "match" me well! I save the smallest of odds and ends when it comes to their papers. So, I put them to the task of paper piecing with this week's Creative Weekly by layering them randomly on top of each other, connecting the two main areas of the layout. I then stitched directly over them - note that I only added stitching along the top of each piece - the bottom is without thread and needle. I think it lends texture and movement to layout's design.

 

Heathyr Hintz

I was so excited to play along with this month's "pattern" theme; creating fun backgrounds using patterned paper bits is one of my favorite techniques, so this was right up my alley. I kept the background pattern fairly neutral, which made it easy to introduce additional (more colorful) patterns along the way. I just love the hues of the Little Bo Peep and Little Boy Blue collections, so I punched out circles in varying sizes and dotted them along the middle of the pattern. I like the overall impact that a repeated pattern provides. It definitely gives your project a unique "design"!

 

Anabelle O'Malley

I love patterned paper. When I found out that we were focusing on it this month, I decided to use it in a couple of ways. First, I created my own stencil numbers. (I used the font "Stencilia", but you can use premade stencils) I cut small strips of paper and adhered them to cardstock, then let them peek through the numbers. I love that I was able to pull in a variety of colors and patterns, but not do it in an overwhelming way. I cut the rest of my words using the same papers. Finally, to emulate the strips in the numbers, I created a border for my page, patchwork style, using the same papers again. As a whole, I like how it all ties together. 

Crate Paper Spotted + Pinterest Winners!

 

 

Here it is, our Pinterest "you vote for it" WINNER! Congratulations Emmanuelle Chauvin, you won over the hearts of many whom follow the Crate Paper blog. They've nominated the delightful "Laduree" layout as their favorite project of those chosen from our Pinterest board, CP Spotted. We'll contact you shortly to seek out your info! You're welcome to contact us directly as well (Note email address below). 

And of course, there's a second winner, as noted yesterday. This person re-pinned Emmanuelle's layout and left us the following comment...

i love Emmanuelle Chauvin's page "ladurée" good luck at all my repin : http://pinterest.com/pin/73042825177273224/ Posted by: sabryna | August 16, 2012 at 06:13 AM

Sabryna, please send us your info at cpblog@cratepaper.com. To both our winners, let us know which collection kit you prefer (Acorn Avenue, On Trend, or Sleigh Ride). You're our grand prize winners on this fabulous Friday! Congrats once again - we're so very happy for the both of you!! 

And as always, thank-you to everyone for helping us out with this latest giveaway. We sincerely appreciate your comments - we couldn't of done it without ya!

Have a great weekend you guys! Make sure to stop by next Monday - Creative Weekly kicks off with another fun, participation-required contest you won't want to miss! This one involves actual paper & scissors. :)