Memory Makers

We’ve moved!

2008-03-17T08:21:05.9245000-04:00

The book division here at F+W Publications is launching our first community web site today, and it’s for crafters! It’s called mycraftivity.com, and on it you’ll find scrapbookers and crafters like you who share their latest projects in the gallery, write blogs, and chat on the messageboard about all things crafty (and some things not). That’s also where you’ll find blogs from editors, free projects, giveaways and more. And that’s where the Memory Makers Book editors will be blogging. So to keep up with the new MM Book releases, for the latest author Q&A and to just see what Kristin, Eileen and the gang are up to, check out the Scrapbooking + Papercrafts blog at mycraftivity.com.

Thanks for your support of and interest in this blog. I hope to see you at our new digs.

Until next time,
Christine

LOOK WHO'S COMING!

2008-03-14T11:41:19.9246551-04:00

My sister/Best Friend is having her first baby sometime in mid-May. She and her husband didn't want to find out the sex of the baby, so it makes it very hard to plan a baby shower and shop. Therefore, I had to get my creative juices flowin' and think of something COOL to do for her shower. So, I decided to go with a non-traditional theme for this traditional baby shower. MOVIES! Everyone (young and old) can relate to this subject. Plus, my sister and my brother-in-law are huge movie fans.

I browsed online and found a JPG of the Look Who's Talking DVD case design. I went in...and made it my own....LOOK WHO'S COMING. I scanned in a couple of my sister's ultrasound pictures and found some movie popcorn and pacifier images online. The shower details are on the back panel...and yes, these were the invites. I mailed out 12 of them and it cost me about $17.00 to send these "dvd's" out.

Luckily, I didn't have to purchase the empty DVD cases....Corrie (another MM designer) helped me out by supplying me with plenty of DVD cases he had laying around at home... (I came into work one morning with my desk/cube COVERED in empty DVD cases—see photos). Pretty funny. I found them in my plants, in drawers, behind my computer, my in-box, etc...Corrie has quite the sense of humor :)

And of course, if you're wondering...we're going to play a few games at the shower...What are movie stars naming their babies?, Quotes from baby movies, crossword puzzles, etc...and we'll have the typical theater food...popcorn, candy, pop, etc...The theme will come together nicely. I'm really looking forward to it. Lots of fun ahead!

LOOK WHO'S COMING!

2008-03-14T11:34:12.7215301-04:00

PageMaps: It's in the Cards

2008-03-13T16:25:56.2996551-04:00

With all this talk of Scrapbook PageMaps, you’re probably excited about all the guidance and inspiration Becky Fleck provides. As if that’s not enough, have we mentioned the bonus cards that come with the book? This little deck of 60 laminated cards is perfect for scrappers on the go!

Each 3.5x5.5" card includes a sketch from the book on one side and the corresponding layout and a short list of recommended supplies on the other side. Cards indicate the size of the sketch (for example, 12 x 12" single) as well as the number of photos intended for the sketch, along with page information cross-referencing the sketch back to the book.

The cards are helpful in so many ways! The whole box is small enough to tuck inside your purse so that it’s always hand when you need a sketch. Or you can pull out your favorites to take with you on a shopping trip. Stick a few cards in with your supplies to take on a crop or to a class. Or pin up cards on an inspiration board. No need to carry the whole book in your bag!

So, what are you waiting for? It can’t be any easier to get layout inspiration and take it with you wherever you go. Pick up PageMaps today!

Kristin

Zen-Like Guidance from a Page Map

2008-03-12T08:59:48.8100000-04:00

For a long time I’ve been meaning to create a scrapbook page to capture a weekend camping trip my husband and I took to a charming small Ohio town called Yellow Springs. It was late October and, because of a long end-of-summer draught, the leaves had not yet turned, and the weather was unseasonably warm. Our last morning of what we knew would probably be the last camping trip of the year (cold weather adventurers we are not), we went on a long hike to savor the fading signs of summer, and were fortunate enough to walk for more than an hour without seeing another soul—a Sunday morning moment of Zen far better than those we watch every week on CBS!

I went a little overboard with my camera and had so many photos that the prospect of starting a page was a bit overwhelming. My thoughtful coworker Eileen came to the rescue with a Scrapbook Page Map perfectly suited to grouping a selection of some of my favorite images. From there, the end result came easily with some dimensional embellishments, a combination of rub-on letters and stickers for my title, and simple handwritten journaling that reads “Yellow Springs—a perfect weekend.” I used a black ink pad to further distress the left side of the page and the sticker letters for a more unified look.

What peaceful moments can a page map guide you to capture on your next layout?

Smiles,
Jessica

New Scrapbook Challenge

2008-03-10T14:23:11.7320000-04:00

Feeling the winter blahs? Don't despair! Spring will be here before you know it. But until then, get your creative juices flowing with a little scrapping fun.

Check out this week’s scrapbook challenge on our sister site mycraftivity.com. Read the challenge on the Scrapbooking + Papercrafts blog, then post your creation in the photo gallery. Join in on the rest of the fun and get involved in the entire mycraftivity community—blogs, message boards, friends, plus free projects for all kind of crafts.

Here’s a little challenge sneak peek:

Happy crafting!
Kristin

PageMaps - Double Time

2008-03-07T08:59:26.6084605-05:00

As Christine mentioned, Becky Fleck's new release PageMaps is full of design ideas for all page sizes. I myself had attempted a few two-page layouts in the past, but after an hour or two of total confusion, usually abandoned them for the traditional 1 pager. My desire to make some two-page layouts never really faded though. Going into my 3rd (and possibly final) attempt, I felt an underlying confidence that I hadn't previously had. Things were going to be different...because this time around I had a PageMap!

Page inspiration: Last spring I took a trip to Mazatlan, Mexico with a group of friends (the trip was a surprise Christmas gift from Eric...something I'll spend the rest of my life trying to trump!). The trip was awesome and I had so many favorite pictures that I knew I couldn't pick just one or two. So, I picked a two page sketch with slots for more than a handful of photos.

I had such a good time challenging myself on this page. Having the sketch as a guide really eased the process and made me feel more confident in my decisions as the page came together. Have you tried using a sketch lately? Try your chances at a free copy of Becky's book by leaving a message on MyCraftivity.

Happy Crafting!
Eileen

Another layout inspired by Scrapbook PageMaps

2008-03-07T07:39:20.4520000-05:00

My boyfriend and I met here at work, and because we’re both in the book division and most of the books we both make are 8.5 x 11 inches, I made the scrapbook about the two of us that size. (Adorable, isn’t it.) But in a world of 12 x 12, and 8 x 8, and 6 x 6 scrappers, I sometimes feel a little left out. Well, all you 8.5 x 11 scrappers out there: Becky Fleck did not leave us out!

This layout is inspired by just one of the many 8.5 x 11 pagemaps Becky includes in her new book. And there’s not just 12 x 12 and 8.5 x 11 sketches, she’s hasn’t left out the double-page layouts.

No matter what the size of the layout, though, a sketch helps me a ton in getting a layout done quickly. Actually, the first time I ever used a sketch was to make this layout. It seemed to me that sketches would take all the creativity out of scrapbooking. But I found the sketch just gave me a running start. I feel like I was able to put my own spin on the sketch—it just took me a lot less time to get the layout done. And you can’t beat that.

Until next time,
Christine

Journaling: How much fun is Greg to have around? A ton. Especially if you’re a little boy who likes to “go up high.” Or as Ivan once said, “Can I sit on your head?” But what’s not to love, really? A ride to wherever you’re walking to and a rare view for a four (or nine) year old.

Supplies: Patterned paper: AdornIt, BoBunny; letter stickers: SEI; date sticker: American Crafts

good ol' G-PA!

2008-03-04T18:11:50.9507510-05:00

My parents have recently taken on a new title of Grandma and Grandpa to my daughter Brianna. They prefer to be called G-MA and G-PA. G-PA has a serious addiction to my daughter and can't seem to get enough of her. I promised him I'd do a layout of the two of them awhile ago. Last Friday at F+W we had a group crop (so much fun). I just had to keep my word and create a layout for my dad.

This adorable picture was taken at daycare one day when my dad went to pick Brianna up...I just LOVE the facial expressions. The photography definitely captures the joy of the moment. It's one of my favorites. Inspiration: Brianna is such a ray of sunshine to have in the house, bringing smiles to many different faces. Her light hearted, radiant behavior rubs off on us...so I tried to portray these quailties/feelings in this G-PA layout.

Also, Brianna and I have a fun lil' song we sing..."G-PA, G-PA, he's our man, if he can't do it, no one can." It has a nice rhythm to it. Brianna always smiles and laughes when we sing this song. Of course I had to incorporate this lil' jive on the page.

Enjoy,
Kelly

"Scrapbook Page Maps" Book Giveaway

2008-03-03T10:23:20.3720000-05:00

Here in the Memory Makers office, we have been eagerly awaiting the arrival of Scrapbook Page Maps by Becky Fleck. And we’re excited to say that it’s due to arrive in our warehouse this week!

Whether you’re pinched for time, in need of inspiration or simply keen on a set of sketches that fits your personal style and taste, you’re sure to fall in love with Page Maps. As a bonus, the book comes with a set of travel-size cards featuring all 60 sketches that can be easily tucked into your purse or bag. Super handy!

We’re so excited about this book that we’re giving away a copy to one lucky scrapper! Go to mycraftivity.com for a chance to win. And check back here later this week for some Page Maps-inspired layouts.

Kristin

Brown is neutral...right?

2008-02-29T08:45:19.9198810-05:00

I made this layout last night in response to Kristin's neutral challenge on the mycraftivity site. And then I started to second-guess myself. I didn't actually read the challenge recently. Is brown neutral enough? Well, when I got into the office this morning, Kristin and Eileen assured me that brown is indeed neutral enough. So here is my layout!

The journaling reads: A visit to Jenny's house wouldn't be complete without a trip to the Pink Room, that magical place where she keeps all of her thrift-store finds. Hats, dresses, scarves and purses. All the things girls young and old (and a little boy or two) love to play with .

The patterned paper is My Mind's Eye; the letter stickers (which I think add a nice sense of playfulness) are from Doodlebug.

Until next time,
Christine

Gray Matters

2008-02-27T09:47:54.3730000-05:00

Since gray is pretty much my favorite color, I was excited to take a jab at our neutral challenge. I immediately found the gray and white foam circles in our craft closet (yeah for American Crafts)! I needed more though. So I found some blue and yellow chipboard circles in a different container and figured I would just paint them. Well, that started to be a scary thought around 10 oclock last night when I got started on the layout, so I flipped a few over and found that I actually really liked the gray/brown raw chipboard color. Bingo!

I decided to painted a thin white border with acrylic paint, however after a few strokes, quickly decided I didn't like where that was going. Luckily when I went to wipe off the excess, it created a nice smokey outline. (Don't you just love a happy accident!)

Have you challenged yourself with neutrals recently? See how creative you can get...then share your results with us over at MyCraftivity!

Eileen

Journaling reads: the first time his laughter unfurled its wings in the wind, we knew the world would never be the same - brian andreas

Take a creative leap!

2008-02-26T15:00:08.5610000-05:00

February 29 is quickly approaching. Ready to “leap” past your creative comfort zone?

We’re hosting a weekly scrapbooking + papercrafting challenge on our sister site mycraftivity.com. Get the challenge then post your creation in the photo gallery. And while you’ re at it, take a look around the site and join the crafting community—blogs, forums, friends, plus free techniques and projects for everything from mixed media and scrapbooking to knitting, sewing, beading and more.

Here’s a little challenge sneak peek:

Happy crafting!
Kristin

March Birthday Madness!!

2008-02-20T16:06:16.5630000-05:00

What do you think of when you talk about the month of March? Most sports fans think of March Madness, the irish think of St. Patrick's Day, and many in general probably think of pleasant thoughts of spring arriving. Initially, I always think of BIRTHDAYS. I'm being completely honest when I say I have 10 birthdays in this month (between family and friends)...March 1, 9, 11, 15, 17, 21, 23, 28, and 30. It's Birthday MADNESS!!!!

I decided to get a head start making birthday cards for the ones that mean a lot to me. Design wise, they're pretty simple.
Enjoy...and stay warm!

Kelly

Techniques from CHA class

2008-02-15T10:59:26.0956362-05:00

Beth Williams, Crystal Jeffrey Rieger and I all had the opportunity to teach a class this past week at the Winter Craft and Hobby Association (CHA) trade show. In the class, we taught retailers 8 different techniques for helping their customers make the most of their scrapbook supplies (kinda like the book we pulled many of our ideas from: Making the Most of Your Scrapbook Supplies).

As always, Crystal did a fabulous job of exciting the class (even at 7am on a Monday morning)--we couldn't have done it without her!

Here are three of my favorite techiques from the class. (And thanks to BasicGrey, Queen & Co., Ranger, Zsiage, and Scrapbook Adhesives for the supplies for these samples and the class!)

Embellishing Felt with Glitter
1.    Cut self-adhesive felt (such as Queen & Co.’s Felt Fusion) to desired length. Cover work surface with scrap paper.
2.    Peel off backing from felt. Sprinkle exposed adhesive with glitter.
3.    Shake excess glitter from felt onto scrap paper. Pour extra glitter back into container.
4.    Adhere felt side of embellishment to layout.

I used this technique for the flower head above. I actually applied a second layer of glitter to the flower by adhering it with dimensional adhesive, like Ranger's Glossy Accent. Can't get too much glitter.

Adding a Glossy Effect to Ribbon
1.   Cut ribbon slightly longer than desired. (This is because sometimes the ends curl and need to be trimmed.)
2.   Apply dimensional adhesive (such as Glossy Accents) to ribbon surface in desired pattern.
3.   Set aside to dry. Once dry, trim ribbon to desired length.

This is the technique I used on the ribbon above, again adding a bit of glitter to the Glossy Accents before it dried.


Personalizing Glitter Embellishments
1.    Peel yellow backing from adhesive sheet (such as those created by Scrapbook Adhesives) and apply to desired paper.
2.    Cover work surface with scrap paper. Peel white backing from adhesive sheet.
3.    Sprinkle glitter over exposed adhesive and shake excess onto scrap paper. Pour extra glitter back into container.
4.    Use a template or draw freehand a design onto back of paper. Cut out the design with scissors.

For this one, I didn't read Crystal's instructions before I started. So I cut my wave shapes from the adhesive sheet, removed the backing, placed the sticker on my paper, and then added the glitter. It was a bit tricky to remove the adhesive backing from the wave shape. But it is do-able with a little patience, and I really like the way it turned out.

Hope these inspire you to bring out your glitter and glue and play a little!

Until next time,
Christine

Happy Valentine's Day!

2008-02-14T09:12:11.2187500-05:00

Our recent project at the F+W weekly knit-a-long was a super cute heart pin (check here for the free pattern). Being the novice knitter that I am, I never did get two hearts to match up in size quite right...so...I made cards with them! Here's a tag that I plan on putting with the gift I got for my husband. Since the heart was kind of tattered looking, I decided to make it a theme by incorporating some grungy cardboard and less-than-perfect outlined acrylic letters. Definitely a gift handmade with love. (And here's a pic of two staffers getting in on the fun at last weeks gathering)

Happy Valentine's Day!!

Eileen

Love is in the air

2008-02-11T10:29:39.6401250-05:00

Of course it's that time of year again when everything in Hallmark stores are Red, pink, and white...filled with warmth and love. Valentine's day is such a nice holiday to spend with the ones you truly appreciate and love. This will be my daughter's first Valentine's day, and although she really doesn't grasp the concept of this special day, I want her first card to be unique and obviously HANDMADE. So I gathered a bunch of scrapbook supplies and paint and created a Lucky Love card. I'm so blessed and LUCKY to have her in my life. Inspiration for the title of the card came from a four leaf clover made of hearts. Hopefully some day down the road, she'll cherish this piece of artwork and will save it for sentimental purposes. I hope this Valentine's Day treats you with lots of hugs, kisses (hershey kisses that is), and of course TLC.

Kelly

V-Day Love

2008-02-07T11:38:21.1030000-05:00

When everyone here on the Memory Makers team started making Valentine’s Day cards, I admit my first instinct was to make a card for my handsome hubby. But then I got to thinking about my single days, and about how much it always meant to me when a kind girlfriend would send me a little Valentine’s Day pick-me-up in the form of a card or some chocolates. We should never forget to send our friends a little V-Day love!

My inspiration for this card was the message inside of a Dove chocolate wrapper: “Sometimes one smile means more than a dozen roses.” I cut it into the shape of a heart and decided to make it the focal point of this simple design.

Whose face do you hope to bring a smile to this year on Valentine’s Day?

Happy Thursday,
Jessica

A Digital Layout Made With Love

2008-02-06T12:50:36.6195000-05:00

I recently found a quote from StoryPeople (a great source for journaling a variety of topics) that I’ve been itching to use on a page about my husband and me. We don’t typically exchange Valentine’s Day gifts, but I thought a simple digital layout with those perfectly sweet words would be a something small my husband would appreciate.

I had several gorgeous papers and embellishments at my disposal for this page, but I decided to keep the layout simple so that the focus would be on the beautiful photos and heartfelt words.I followed these steps to make my photos sepia. I also added drop shadows to all my layers—a first for me. I have to say, if you stay away from digital because you don’t want your layouts to look quite so flat—reconsider! Adding drop shadows is a quick and easy way to make digital layouts pop.

To add a drop shadow in Photoshop (I used a Mac), follow these simple steps: At the top right of the screen, click on the arrow next to Styles and Effects to open the options. Change the two drop-down menus below to read Layer Styles and Drop Shadows. Then choose a drop shadow style (I used Soft Edge). You can adjust the appearance of your drop shadow by going to your layer in the Layers palette (bottom right of your screen), and double-clicking on the f.

What crafty gifts do you have planned for your valentine? Share your thoughts here! And check out our other recent posts for great valentine card inspiration (click here, here, here and here)

Digital Supplies:
Orange paper, frame and clip: Michelle Coleman’s exclusive MM kit, Wild Sorbet, available for FREE here
Green paper and bracket: Katie Pertiet’s Flowering Horizons kit, available exclusively with Paper + Pixels
Font: Beedey, available for free from Scrappin’ Fun

Photos courtesy Jennifer Disney Photography

Kristin

Weekend Scrap Session - Beginner Style

2008-02-05T09:27:20.1030000-05:00

This past weekend my sister Annie came in town to hang out and to tap into my stash of scrapbooking supplies. One of her friends is getting married and a scrapbook is being put together by all of the bride’s friends as a shower gift. Each girl was asked to make 2 pages to put inside the album, and Annie decided to focus her pages on a few high school memories.

Now, Annie is just as creative as the next person, but before Friday, her scrapbooking background consisted of cutting letters and phrases out of magazines like YM and Cosmo…so she felt pretty intimidated when confronted with all the scrapbooking supplies available at the craft store.

To ease her into creating her first official “layout”, I tried to break the process down into steps. First, we looked through her pictures and narrowed it down to the ones she wanted to use, which ended up being 3 photos for each layout. Then, I thought it would be good for her to look through some finished layouts to get a feel for what style she was drawn to, so I pulled out 601 Great Scrapbooking Ideas for her to flip through (can’t get more layouts in one book than that!). I told her to look for three-photo layouts that she liked, which helped her get ideas for how to place the photos on the page. She, like me, favored the simpler designs, and after a few hours Friday night and Saturday morning, we completed two really fun layouts.

I had such a good time getting crafty with my sister and re-introducing her to a hobby that we both loved so much when we were younger. Have you “shared the love” for scrapbooking with anyone recently? Check out our Getting Started section for tips on doing just that...or leave us a comment to share your own ideas!

Eileen