Crate Paper

Crate Card: Happy Boo Day & Open Book Card Tutorial

 Happy Sweet Halloween! We are amply excited to have you stop by today on this fun, festive holiday. We have a special treat from CP's ultimate shabby chic cardmaker, Melissa Phillips. She's crafted an Open Book card tutorial detailing an array of scrupulous layers and vintage additions that are unmistakenly "Melissa". Perfectly suited for all trick-or-treaters!

Hello again!  Melissa Phillips here with you today, sharing another Crate Card.  I'll walk you through the process of creating this card below, but first, let's take a look at the new and oh, so lovely Open Book Collection put to work.

There are so many reasons to love Open Book.  I must admit to be drawn to the sweet, soft colors used, the opaque vellum accents, and the lovely florals used here and there.  This collection has a little something for everyone.

One thing I love doing when creating, is adding layers and dimension, and I've done just that with this card.  Follow along below to see how I put these fun elements together.

STEP 1:  I began by embossing a block of cream cardstock using the Open Book Embossing Folder.

STEP 2:  I wanted to bring out the beautiful texture created with the embossing folder, so I selected a light pink chalk ink, and ran it across the surface in order to highlight some of the pattern.

STEP 3:  I then adhered the embossed and inked block of cardstock to my card base, first rounding the corners.

STEP 4:  Now to start building with color and embellishments. I used a die cut vellum library card accent in the center of my card, followed by a chipboard wreath, placed directly over the top.

STEP 5:  Next came a floral cardstock sticker placed near the upper right corner of the wreath.

STEP 6:  I couldn't resist using a gold foil vellum phrase as my sentiment, so that follows next and was placed just below the floral sticker, slightly off center.

STEP 7:  I then adhered a gold foil cardstock sticker tab near the lower right corner.

STEP 8:  And, then to finish, I added a few final touches such as a fabric brad placed over the sticker tab, sequins, a vellum die cut phrase, and some twine.  

The Open Book Collection has so many beautiful and inspiring elements to use and enjoy in your paper-crafting.  It's my new favorite :).

ENJOY THE HOLIDAY!

CP Minimally Made :: Pocket Inserts Made Easy

One of the benefits of Pocket Scrapbooking is that it doesn't require a tremendous amount of time to conquer. Just ask CP Gal, Ashley Cannon Newell, whom has managed to simplify the process of pocket scrapbooking even further with today's easy-to-create pocket inserts!

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It would be perfect if we could create and craft all day, but for most of us, that is not an option. We all love beautiful papers and embellishments, so I thought it would be a great time to share how to make simple journal cards to have on hand for your Crate Life pocket scrapbooking pages. I made a dozen of them very quickly with products from the new Open Book collection.

Using a 12" x 12" sheet of white cardstock, I trimmed it into twelve–3" x 4" journal cards.

Using Open Book, I added chipboard die cuts, vellum die cuts, Thickers, cardstock die cuts, and more. They were very easy to make in just a short amount of time. They will really come in handy when I need to document those special moments in life.

The phrases and stickers in this collection make it hassle-free to customize your own journal cards. I left open space on some cards for journaling or to insert a photo.

Journal cards do not have to be elaborate or ornate. They can be simple and convey exactly what your photos show. Choose a simple color scheme and just about any photo will match your new minimally made journal cards. I hope you get a chance to create some today or tomorrow.

Trending Now :: Crate Paper Gallery Wall

A good gallery wall is all the rage right now. It thrives without boundaries, yet requires to some degree, great precision. To find a few, all one has to do is scan Pinterest. They're everywhere. They're totally fun and inspiring too, making it a fab topic for Crate's 'Trending Now' feature. We asked our design team to dream up their own paper version of the gallery wall. First to pursue the challenge was CP Gal, Marie Lottermoser.

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This month I decided to take a detour from my normal scrapbooking style and try out a "cluster" technique. Instead of lots of layers like you might see in traditional scrapbooking, the photos and embellishments are arranged in a more organized way. The style is similar to a gallery wall or inspiration board.

I used my daughter as the inspiration for my layout and highlighted two of her favorite hobbies, photography and the outdoors. Crate's newest collection, Open Book, is full of gorgeous flowers and leaves, as well as all sorts of photography elements like lenses and cameras.

I printed my journaling straight on a piece of vellum and then framed it with a shiny gold camera lens. It made a good centerpiece for the rest of the layout.

To keep things consistent, I added several more touches of gold throughout the page. Gold tags, frames and leaves are scattered throughout. Since I did not want too many competing colors on the same page, I completed the look with just pink and green embellishments.

The next time you want to change-up your scrapbooking style, I hope you'll consider giving this technique a try. It's a fun way to use many different embellishments all on the same page.

InstaCrate :: Insta-Fall Open Book Layout

 

This insta-Fall layout by Adrienne Alvis takes on the subject of changing seasons & truly unique selfies - lots of pretty pink included!

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Hello CP fans! I was scrolling through my Instagram feed the other day and noticed I have been taking several "shoe selfie" photos since the weather has changed in our area.  I only take photos like this on my phone and I always post them to my IG account so I thought this type of themed photo set would make a great page documenting the change of season.

 

I arranged the photos in the center of the page while utilizing a grid-style design around two 3 x 4 journaling cards from the Open Book collection. I placed a chipboard frame around the bottom left photo because it was the perfect size to fit around it.

 

 

I used the wood veneer alphas from the Notes & Things collection as part of the title and backed the letters with pieces of dark, wood grained patterned paper from the Open Book collection–creating definition.  

 

 

Next, I layered some ephemera and chipboard pieces from the Open Book collection on and around the two journaling cards. For an added pop of color, I placed on top a 3 x 4 pink card a gold heart, rub-ons, and a foliage frame.

 

 

 

I layered a couple of vellum flowers under one of the fabric brads from the Open Book collection and placed it on the right side of one of the photos to draw the eye around the page.

 

 

The Open Book collection pairs well with any and all Instagram photos. For some instant layout inspiration, scroll through your IG photos and press 'print'! 

 

Maggie Holmes Open Book Week :: Final Day + Winners!

Lets take a moment to congratulate these TWO lucky individuals–both are taking home an Open Book goodie sack from Monday's GIVEAWAY....

The ruffled sewn tags are to die for. The Open Book Collection is just gorgeous! Thanks for the chance to win! Dedra in Arizona Posted by: Dedra Long | October 22, 2014 at 03:31 PM

I love the gold accents throughout the collection but especially the flower embellishments edged with gold sparkle. They are beautiful!
Lydia in Cincinnati, Ohio Posted by: Lydia R | October 21, 2014 at 10:38 AM

Thank you to all who participated and followed along with our Open Book event. Your comments are graciously recognized and appreciated. We're elated to hear how much you like the new collection and look forward to seeing your Open Book creations as they find their way online and elsewhere!

Once again, congratulations to Debra Long and Lydia R.–please forward your information to cpblog@cratepaper.com

As we say goodbye to the week, CP Gal, Jill Sprott, has one last Open Book project to reveal–a four-quadrant layout. 

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Upon first sight, it is clear that the Open Book collection lives up to its name–it is not just beautiful, drawing the eye around, but it is also accessible, working with a variety of styles and themes. I love that the collection offers a mix of pink, orange, and green botanical hues and prints as well as black and white patterns and a luminous hint of gold.

The layout is based on a simple four-quadrant design. I started by trimming two large patterned rectangles and placing them in the center of the page. Over each rectangle, I added a photo block adjacent to a textured, embellished frame.

The idea of "treasured days," a phrase that appears at the top of the page, resonates in the photos, taken 16 years apart.

Within each frame, I added patterns and accents not just for their colors, but also for their connection to the photos.

One of the stickers in the Open Book collection reads "Life: Processing," and this sticker became the impetus for the journaling. Looking at the photos, I was overwhelmed, my mother's heart filled to bursting–how does one process change over time? Thankfully, the always-rewarding hobby of scrapbooking has been there to help me do just that.

The Open Book collection is not just lovely to behold; it is also full of elements that make layouts all the more meaningful.

Maggie Holmes Open Book Week :: Day 4

Bookmarks, cards and pretty packaging–need you ask for more? Each offers up an idea or two while taking measure of Open Book's sizable embellishment selection. These creations originate from CP Gal, Ashley Marcu.

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The new Maggie Holmes collection, Open Book, is full of inspiring moments. From great colors to glitter, flowers to thoughtful sentiments, there is something that draws you in and invites you to create. 

 

When I first sat down with this collection, I created four projects. Let's take a look them!

 

 

For this first project, a beautiful everyday card, I started with a large "hello" sentiment. To make it 'pop', I placed it on top a mostly black background. I accented the sentiment with an pink rose die cut, a pink label sticker, and epoxy dots. 

 

 

The soft black strikes a friendly balance with the collection's impressionable color palette.

 

 

Next, I embellished a simple box with a semi-transparent rose, a pink ruffle tag, and a complimentary set of die cut shapes. 

 

 

The sides gave me a chance to add some fun polka dot patterned paper. The pattern is whimsical and fun, and allows the color on top to 'pop'! 

 

 

There are many fun book references in the Open Book collection. Not only are they perfect for scrapbooking everyday life, but coincidentally, they're privy to bookmark-making, too!

 

 

To start the bookmark, I gathered together scraps of Open Book paper & various die cut pieces. I then layered them with a fun sentiment and tied them together with yellow twine.

 

 

My final project is another handmade card. I couldn't wait to use the gold foil stickers from Open Book. I tucked one beneath the sweet vellum sentiment, "my heart is full" and brought the card full circle with a bundle of pink flowers, a chipboard frame and a dark emerald journal spot. 

 

 

The Crate Paper collection, Open Book, is full of hidden gems wanting to be discovered! I do hope you enjoyed seeing some of them in action! Thanks for joining me!

 

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Briefly, we want to remind you about the Goodie Sack GIVEAWAY that is in the works this week! Visit Monday's post to find out the details!

 

_^>>>  OPEN BOOK GIVEAWAY EXCLUSIVE  <<<

 

Maggie Holmes Open Book Week :: Day 3

We bring you a handcrafted altered tray containing an array of items from the Open Book collection. It's a darling compilation of cute cubbies crafted by our very own CP Gal, Katie Ehmann. 

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Happy Day Crate Paper Fans! I'm simply thrilled to be here with my first project using the new Maggie Holmes collection, Open Book! Over the summer, I purchased a wooden printer's tray from a local craft store. Because it was too dark for the project I had in mind, I brightened it up with a few coats of white paint. While waiting for it to dry, I picked out a cute arrangement of supplies to decorate it with!

To begin, here is the painted 12" x 12" tray. It consists of twelve windows–approximately 3" x 4" each.

I gathered together my Open Book embellishments and started to comb through them. I set aside my favorite pieces.

I then chose patterned papers showcasing smaller prints since the openings were small and I didn't want to distract from the tray's embellishment additions.

The chipboard frames are some of the best embellishment options in the Crate Paper family. For the purpose of the project and added dimension, I decided on a few frames and positioned them accordingly (not yet adhered).

Next, I trimmed various patterned papers down to size and tucked them inside the openings. I then arranged on top the papers, various embellishments.

The Open Book ephemera pack includes a couple of designs with the letter 'e' imprinted on them. Since 'e' is my last initial, I knew I had to find a home for them on the tray.

I had a blast sorting through the embellishment packs and selecting just the right items for each little window. Each was it's own tiny canvas and as a whole, they came together beautifully. Here is the final project–a new decor piece for my studio!

When crafting a tray like this one, don't be afraid to work outside the confines of the individual openings. Branch out with your embellishments! Chipboard is a great option because it creates a sense of bulk without the hassle of layering. Of course, don't forget that with this type of project, layering is essential because it lends support to the weight of the tray–a few layers throughout is all that's needed to create an impressive, eclectic look.

After finishing the tray, I hung it on my craft room wall. It's a beautiful reminder of all things Crate Paper.

Maggie Holmes Open Book Week :: Day 2

Are you ready for more of Maggie Holmes' Open Book? On this second day, we offer up more of Maggie's stylish designs, but with a slight twist; girly stripes and flowers. The inventor of this pretty duo theme is CP Gal, Anabelle O'Malley.

We quickly want to remind you that there is a GIVEAWAY in full swing --> TWO goodie sacks filled with brand new Open Book items. Visit HERE to find out more!

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I love anything girly and pretty! So, the new Open Book collection is right up my alley. I knew it would be the perfect line to use to document one of my favorite 'girly' past times - having my nails done. I think my obsession with nail polish is tied in with my love of papercrafting goodies. I love anything colorful! Here is the layout I made that combines these two favorite things.

 

I started by cutting my title with the words from the die cut set. I love how it looks in black. I can see myself using this die for many things. The font is awesome! I adhered my title with foam adhesive to make it pop. It's layered over a journaling tag that I embellished with stickers, a flower and one of the beautiful fabric brads.

 

As soon as I saw the luscious vellum paper, I knew I wanted to use it on the page. I cut a triangle shape and it serves to guide the eye toward the photos on the page. I added a stitched vellum arrow and some other little details, too.

 

 

I love the fabric brads and wanted this one to stand out, so I layered thread below it and added it to my photo.

One of my favorite embellishments from this line is the floral die cuts. They are so versatile! I decided to use them as layering elements under my photos and they look great. 

 

I finished off my girly page with some black and gold ink splatters. I also added some wood hearts to tie in with the theme. 

 

The result is a page that is fun, flirty and pretty! Thanks for stopping by today.

Maggie Holmes Open Book Week Intro

 

Now that Open Book is flourishing across the globe and reaching crafters at their favorite local craft retail outlets, we're devoting a full week to an inspiring selection of Open Book projects and ideas. The collection is No.4 for Crate Paper's cute and artsy scrapbooker and photographer, Maggie Holmes. Like her prior designs, the Autumn-friendly line leverages a gallery of charming patterns and prints that are very much iconic of Maggie's carefree, sensible style. 

To get started, we're offering up TWO Open Book Goodie Sacks! All we ask is that you tell us what you love most about Open Book . We'll announce both winners on Friday! All entries must post by Thursday, October 24th (8:00pm Central Time). Please provide your location alongside your comment–Good Luck!

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Hey Crate fans!! Stephanie Bryan back with you today and I am so excited to share my first layout with you using the new Open Book collection.  This collection includes some of the most beautiful papers, embellishments and tags that I have ever seen!  The colors are a pretty mix of bold and neutrals with gorgeous pops of gold and black throughout! My favorite element of this collection is all the sewn bits and pieces, especially the sewn ruffled tags!!  These cute little tags are the icing on the cake and as soon as I opened my package, I knew these ruffled tags would be front and center on my page. 

 

 

Since I knew for certain that I wanted to use a tag as a central point on my page, I choose my favorite (the pink and gold "happy" tag) and layered it right in the center of the Open Book "Moments Collected" patterned paper.  This paper has the prettiest white to pink gradient and I instantly loved how soft, subtle and delicate the paper was, even on it's own.  The tag paired so perfectly with the paper and the soft pink ruffles helped to bring out the pink hues of the page.  A few splatters of gold paint and a quick stitch around my edges and my page was already for the photos and embellishments!

 

 

My next step was to begin layering my photos, embellishments and die cuts underneath my tag.  By starting in a "top to bottom" fashion, I could make sure all the pretty flowers and pieces could be seen around, under and beside my tag.

 

 

For the top layer and my photos on my page, I used pop dots to add in some dimension and height to my elements.  It's difficult to tell from a photo, but the pop dots really help add those needed shadows, as well as more visual interest to the page.

 

 

I finished my page with a small contrasting brad alongside my tag and a few lines of typed journaling underneath my photo and tag.

 

 

These tags are such a lovely addition to any project!  They add the perfect "handmade" touch to a page and I just love the effect they have here on my layout!  

 

 

Thank you so much for joining me today!!  I hope I have inspired you to pull out your Open Book layered tags and start creating!!

 

Minimally Made :: Autumn Friendly Cards + Open Book Giveaway Winner!

We immediately thought of Fall when we spotted this thoughtful arrangement of Open Book cards from CP Gal, Jeanette Lee. Each one exemplifies Fall at it's finest!

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Recently, I was asked to gift a set of thanksgiving cards to my aunt, whom is staying in the States. I crafted a total of six cards–perfect for Fall!

I don't normally spend a lot of time crafting cards, but I took this opportunity to explore my inner 'card maker'. In the end, I kept the cards small, varied and minimally designed.

 

 

 

The first card is made from a leaf pattern backgrouns. On top the leaves, I added an assembly of small flat embellishments and phrase stickers.

 

With the second card, I took advantage of the leftover leaves from the first and snugged them under a die-cut frame. I then tied a section of black-gold ribbon around the card along with the quote, "love is all you need". It's a sophisticated, Autumn-friendly mix.

 

 

Adding varied texture is a quick, easy way to create a layered effect. On the third card, I overlapped burlap and lace to help fill up the space, which made the design process totally 'fuss-free'. As a final touch, I included three individual leaves made from differing materials and a bit of thread.

 

 

To lend greater variety to my card assembly, I crafted a couple of exquisite matching tags. I secured one of the tag sets with a brad, leaving space for the gift recipient to write a personal, heartfelt note.

 

 

 

 Together, the set of cards & tags are a thankful treat! I can't wait to share them with my dear sweet aunt!

 

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 Finally, the WINNER of Monday's Open Book GIVEAWAY! Congratulations to this lucky gal....

I always said Flea Market was my favorite, but then Open Book comes along... My new fav :)Can't really choose. I think all of her collections mix well together!
Gina M. So. Calif. Posted by: Gina M | October 13, 2014 at 11:08 AM

We are thrilled to send you a box of Open Book goodies. Please forward us your info at cpblog@cratepaper.com! Congrats!!