Copycat Scrapper

Dots So Hard

2009-04-22T20:27:00.001-07:00

Just for fun, Mitch of Visual Creations posed a challenge for a couple of scrap buddies in her store. She provided us with a choice of white or craft cs, use-all-you-want pps, flower embellise and a selection of beautiful ribbons. But here's the catch though, you can only use polka-dots pps on your layouts. When we found out, we exclaimed: "Oh dots sooo hard!" Then to make it doubly exciting, she added, "no additional embellisements to be used except what I provided and use of stamping should be prominent on the page". She did allow us to use our own American Craft alpha chipboards for titling. As for the rest of the materials, they are all on the house! OOooowwweee!

We were given 2 hours to finish the layout, but man, time really flies so fast! Being a self-proclaimed turtle-pace scrapper, I opted to do a simple sketch. My aim that afternoon is simply to finish a page and that, I did :D (Nita doing a little jig)

So I did a couple of cheats, but technically speaking, they were within the boundaries of the challenge:
1) I used decorative scissors to cut the edge of the horizontal pps. Somehow the textured edge gave the simple page a more decorative look.
2) Since I could not use brads, I opted to use the asterisk and periods of the chipboard alphas as brads and floral centerpiece. (Hey, they are still part of the alpha package!)
3) I just had to use my more-than-a-year-old-yet-still-brand-new foam alphas. I thought, Mitch did say stamping is okey. She just did not specify if it's rubber or foam stamps - hehehe.

But you know what, the minute I started bending back a couple of rules, I simply could not stop. Eventually, I broke the challenge rule and had to add some tini-tiny blings and a dash (okey, two) of stickles. "I couldn't stop myself... dots so hard! huhuhu" ;p

Thank you very much, Mitch for the beautiful materials and yummy snack. It was surely a productive and fulfilling afternoon. Mwuah! :D

Shine

2009-04-14T21:04:00.001-07:00

Just a simple cut and paste layout I did at the last April 4 Scrapjam in Clarkfield, Pampanga. While my talented companions are hard at work on their entries for the layout challenge. I just sat there staring at my pictures and kicking myself for not printing my photos in sepia or black and white which is the safest bet when attending meets like these. Oh well, another lesson learned.

It is a good thing though that my tablemates (Au, Cabbie and Mia) are very insistent that I scrap even if I did not intend to join the challenge. As Au put it, what is the point of my being there if I did not at least do one page. It would have been such a waste of opportunity. So I finally relented and bought papers to match my photo. I told myself I did not want to spend too much so I was supposed to limit myself to 2 pps and the craft cs that came with the challenge kit. But by some good fortune, they were having a sale on the pps so I got 3 for the price of 2. Whaddayaknow!

I am pretty happy with the outcome of the page, I must say. I am very thankful, too, that I have friends who does not take no for an answer :D

A Day in the Life of a Girl for Memory Lane

2008-10-23T21:46:00.000-07:00

If you haven't noticed, I have a single secret ingredient for these 2 layouts I did for Memory Lane. Haven't figured it out yet? It's Simply Scrappy's circle templates. I simply traced the circular elements in the base pps and inserted a second pps underneath it. In effect, the base pps blended in beautifully with the second pps leaving one thinking, "so where did the second pps starts and end again?" It's really a very simple technique and yet the effect is intriguing. I so love my Simply Scrappy circle templates! :D

Materials Used: Sandylion pps (Kelly Panacci 3 Ring Circus; Funtastik Turquoise; Around the Corner & ); Kelly Pannacci chipboard medley; American Craft thickers Glitter Sprinkles (cucumber); Crystal alpha stickers; Brad; Eyelet; Bling.

Others: Simply Scrappy circle templates; Crop-a-dile.

Cheeseball for Memory Lane

2008-10-23T21:28:00.000-07:00

There must be something favorable in my stars lately because I got another invite from Helen Chua of Memory Lane as Guest DT for October. She gave me these lovely Kelly Pannacci pps and chipboard embellishment to work on. I had such a good time doing these layouts. In fact, these are the easiest and quickest pages I ever did. I started out with no sketch whatsoever and just went with the flow. Lovely materials, really! Thank you very much, Helen! :D

Materials Used: Sandylion pps (Kelly Panacci Gypsy Garden & 3 Ring Circus); DCWV red polka-dot pps; Kelly Pannacci chipboard medley; 7 Gypsies journaling card; American Craft thickers Glitter Sprinkles (cucumber); Artline acid-free pen; flower eyelet.

Others: Simply Scrappy circle templates; Crop-a-dile.

Journaling Reads: It has always been difficult to make you stand still and look at the camera. When you do cooperate, you always had to do this corny pose with cheesy smile. You are such a cheeseball, you crack me up! I love you, baby.

Truly a Blessing

2008-10-17T21:00:00.000-07:00

After doing all those layouts for Scrapbukan, I felt drained. So I decided to just take it easy for awhile and do what I love doing from time to time, which is to scraplift :D Scraplifting is so refreshing. You get to do a layout which you already have an idea what the outcome would be. Plus, you get to change and twist that idea in such a manner that it would suit your taste. So what started out as a scraplift eventually became a layout which now only vaguely resembles the original idea :D

Scraplifted from: 601 Great Scrapbook Ideas.

Altered Cigar Box for Scrapbukan

2008-10-17T20:37:00.001-07:00

First of all, let me tell you that I am not good at altering stuff. So this last project for Scrapbukan was really a challenge for me. This left me stumped for the longest time, I tell you. Secondly, I am very poor when it comes to collage-work. In fact, it terrifies me to even think of attempting it. But since this was the last project holding me from submitting my materials to Scrapbukan, I took one deep breath and dove into unchartered territories, so to speak. Boy, am I glad I took that dive or else I wouldn't have discovered how much fun it is to do collage-work and alter stuff. Thank you, Cabbie for giving me a push in the right direction and thank you, Cookie for the inspiration on that scroll chipboard :D

Materials Used: Noteworthy Delaney Stripe pps; NW spiral journaling book (Delaney); NW pebble brads (Audrey); NW glittered die-cuts; MM acrylic paint (Burgundy; Manila; Funky Vintage; Black; Gold); American Crafts chipboard letter stickers (Platform); Fancy Pants Soho swirls; K&Co chipboard; Prima Say It with Crystals; Assorted rubber stamps; Assorted rub-ons; Mulberry paper; Assorted brass embellishments; Buttons; Ribbons; Crackle paint medium; Crocheted ribbons; Plastic hook; Wall hanger; Cigar box.

Adhesive Used: UHU Glue; Vellum Glue Dots.

The Process:
1. Cover the hinges and lock of the cigar box with masking tape and start prepping the box by sanding. Then paint all sides with beige acrylic paint as base coat.
2. After the base coat had dried, paint the sides with burgundy acrylic paint and let dry. Next, paint over the Burgundy portion with crackle medium, leaving it to almost dry yet slightly tacky to the touch. Then immediately paint over the crackle medium with Manila acrylic paint and within seconds, you’ll see the beige paint crackle exposing the burgundy underneath.
3. Cut the NW Delaney stripe pps for the cover and inner faces of the cigar box. Apply liberal amount of UHU glue and adhere to the box. Since there will be insufficient pps for the back of the cover, you may use a 2-1/2” crocheted ribbon for the uncovered portion of the box.
4. Paint the swirl chipboard with a base coat of Funky Vintage acrylic paint then distress using a toothbrush dipped in black paint. Do the same distressing process with the Platform chipboard alphas this time using gold acrylic paint with the toothbrush as distressing medium. Set aside both items to dry.
5. Cut 4”x4” pcs. of mulberry paper and stamp with assorted rubber stamp design. Then wet the edges of the mulberry paper with tap water and pull-off the wet portion giving the edge a soft, feathery effect. Adhere to random portions of the box using vellum glue dots.
6. Continue collage-work by randomly applying various rub-ons, buttons and brass embellise to the cigar box. Finish off by adhering the swirl, ribbon and title.
7. Attach the plastic hook inside the box, then the wall hanger on the other side and your altered key holder is done.

You & Me for Scrapbukan

2008-10-17T20:22:00.001-07:00

Due to the intense color of the pps, I didn't really know which pictures or embellishment would match it. Luckily, I found this set of vellum stickers amongst my stash which matches the pps perfectly. From then on, my inspiration was sparked and I was able to finish this page in one sitting. Now, this is the first time I ever distressed the pictures in this manner and you can just imagine I was praying to high heavens that I would not mess up - hehehe.

Materials Used: Noteworthy Delaney DieCutScallop pps; Cathy B. Vellum Stickers; Brenda Walton die-cut cardstock; 2mm Darys foamies; MM acrylic paint (Dusk); Rub-on alpha.

Adhesive Used: UHU Glue.

The Process:
1. Print out one (1) 5”x7” colored photo and two (2) 4”x3-1/2” black & white photos.
2. Group all three (3) photos together and place on top of the NW Delaney DieCutScallop pps leaving 1” space to the left and 2” on the right. Lightly pencil mark the edges of the photos and set aside for the meantime.
3. Stick some paisley vellum stickers on the right side and lower portion slightly overlapping the penciled area but make sure to leave an empty space on the right corner.
4. Glue all three (3) photos on top of the vellum stickers using UHU glue and matt the grouped photos by painting all sides with blue acrylic paint.
5. Once dried, stick more paisley vellum stickers on the left side and right corner of the photos.
6. Give dimension to the ready-made die-cut cardstock “You & Me” by gluing 2mm Darys foamies at the back. Then ink the edges with blue ink pad and adhere on the upper left corner of the grouped photos.
7. Using the maroon-colored rub-on alpha, spell out the sub-title “Together” on top of the focal picture, slightly spilling over the secondary black & white picture and your page is done.

Good Time for Scrapbukan

2008-10-17T20:10:00.001-07:00

I know, by professional standard, this picture would have been considered as a bad shot. But I just love the interaction going on between my husband and our daughter that despite my poor framing, I just have to scrap it. In fact, if you ask me, this is one of my favorite pictures of them together :D

Journaling Reads:
Ingredients:
1 - doting father who always misses his daughter every minute of the day.
1 - funny little girl who loves to laugh at the drop of a hat.
1 - ordinary afternoon together.
Instruction:
Mix all ingredients thoroughly and add a pinch of a silly joke. Allow to sit in a corner and take liberal amount of snapshots. Cook to perfection and serve with love. What you will have is a tender moment of a father and daughter having a good time together.

Technique Used: Paper piercing; Distressing.

Materials Used: Noteworthy Addie Pattern Stripe pps; NW Delaney Ledger Circle pps; NW Addie DieCut Circle pps; K&Co chipboard; Cardstock (black; white); Craft cardstock; Flowers; Brads; Rub-ons.

Others: Sizzlits alpha die (Monkey Tails); Mouse pad; Corkboard pin; Simply Scrappy circle template; Coluzzle knife and cutting pad; MM paper scraper.

Adhesive Used: Adhesive Tech.

Computer Font: Love Letter TW.

The Process:
1. Matt the 5”x7” colored photo with black cardstock. Distress all edges of the cardstock using MM paper scraper.
2. Using the mouse pad as a base, place the NW Delaney Ledger Circle pps on top of it and start piercing around the circle design using a pin (Top Tip: Use a corkboard pin so you will have a handle. It will be easier for you to control where you are going and it would not be too tiresome for your fingers). After completing the piercing process, tear out the circles along the dotted lines. Repeat the same process with the NW Addie Pattern Stripe pps to create a faux ½” ribbon.
Designer’s Note: Paper Piercing is a good technique to use by scrappers who have difficulty in using cutting blade to cut out intricate designs. Not only will it be easier to cut and tear around the design, it will also give your pps added texture.
3. Cut NW Addie DieCut Circle pps to size. Then with Corel Draw, type out the journaling using the font, Love Letter TW and print onto the pps.
4. Using the Sizzlits alpha die, Monkey Tails, cut 3 sets of the spelled out title “Good Times” with white cardstock. Then cut a 4th set using the orange portion of the NW Delaney Ledger Circle pps. Glue the four (4) layers of each letter together with the orange pps on top thereby creating dimensional letters.
5. For the sub-title, cut and matt two pps together and distress all sides using MM paper scraper. Then spell out “recipe for a” using black rub-on letters on each tiny matted rectangles.
6. Glue all components as shown on the layout using Adhesive Tech glue with a craft cardstock as base.
7. Embellish the page with rub-on, chipboard, flowers and mini-brads.
8. As a finishing touch, cut the inner portion of 2 pierced circles using a circle template, coluzzle knife and cutting pad. Add to the page forming an imaginary triangle to frame the focal picture and journaling.

Inner Beauty for Scrapbukan

2008-10-17T19:37:00.000-07:00

Last September, I was fortunate to have been invited by Ms. Sahrie as her Guest DT in Scrapbukan. I felt so happy when I saw the materials she sent over, they were all lovely! I didn't know where to start so I chose my favorite amongst the pps and prayed I would not disappoint her :D Again, thank you, Ms. Sahrie for this wonderful opportunity.

Sub-title Reads: There is no question about it, you are a beautiful child.
Journaling Reads: But there is more to you than meets the eye. You are smart, funny, sensitive, adorable, charming, caring and kind. And these are the qualities which makes me fall in love with you all the more each passing day.

Materials Used: Noteworthy Addie Brocade Dot pps; NW Addie Pattern Stripe pps; NW Self-adhesive Glitter Clears; Prima Say It with Crystals; Brenda Walton embossed stickers; MM acrylic paint (Capri & Blueberry); Ancient Page ink pad (Chocolate); Craft Express chipboard letters; Mulberry paper; Laces.

Adhesive Used: Adhesive Tech; Vellum Glue Dots.

Others: Hero Arts Stamp (Manuscript Background); Cuttlebug alpha die (Olivia); Simply Scrappy circle template; Coluzzle knife and cutting pad .

Computer Font: Susie’s Hand.

The Process:
1. Cut Noteworthy Addie Pattern Stripe pps to size. Then with Corel Draw, type out the sub-title and journaling using the font, Susie’s Hand and print onto the pps. After which, create large scallops on the right edge of the pps using Simply Scrappy circle template with Coluzzle knife and cutting pad.
2. Paint the cut-out alpha letters and chipboard titles with MM acrylic paint and set aside to dry.
3. Cut a 4”x4” pc. of mulberry paper and stamp on the manuscript background using brown dye ink. Then wet the edges of the mulberry paper with tap water and pull-off the wet portion giving the edge a soft, feathery effect. Adhere to the upper left portion of the page using vellum glue dots.
4. Cut out portions of the floral design on the base pps and tuck the picture, journaling pps and light green lace underneath the design, then adhere to the page using Adhesive Tech glue.
5. Using the same fine tipped liquid glue dispenser on the chipboard and cut-out alpha, stick the title to the page.
6. Embellish the page with self-adhesive glitter clears, embossed photo corners, glittered floral stickers and self-adhesive crystal blings.
7. Glue lace on the entire left back portion of the base pps using Adhesive Tech which is also a fabric glue, leaving a small part of the lace peeking in front. Then you may step back and admire your finished layout.

Lazy Days and Sundays

2008-08-29T08:58:00.000-07:00

I had the fortune to scrap at my leisure last Monday because it was a holiday. I took a sketch from Becky Fleck’s Pagemaps book and used it for the base design. With the difficult part out of the way, I decided to play, and try my hand at collage and layering. I was having so much fun I thought, “heck, why not layer the title as well.”

I must admit, my Clip It Up really came in handy in this simple exercise. Since I have all my embellishments within reach, it was a breeze mixing and matching assorted brands for my collage work. All I had to do was think of a color that would suit a spot, flip through the revolving rack and presto! In fact, when I counted the number of embellishments I used for this layout, there were at least eleven different lines of various brands and I am so happy how well they came together.

Journaling Reads:
Me, lounging in the lanai with my feet up.
My eyeglasses perched almost at the tip of my nose.
A good book nested comfortably on my hands.
And you, sitting on my lap doing your own thing.

Materials Used: Bazill black cs; BG Periphery pps (Blanc); K&Co. Blue Awning pps; BG Urban Couture pps (Ratine); AAS bookplate; AAS chipboards; Tim Holtz game spinners; Imaginations alpha stickers (Estate Sale Cranberry); assorted rub-ons (Hambly; 7 Gypsies); assorted embellishments; brass embellise; red brad; navy blue pigment ink.
Others: Cuttlebug alpha die (Hippie Chick); script typewriter; date stamp.

Possibility

2008-08-25T03:47:00.000-07:00

With the tons of pictures I have of my daughter and my turtle-pace scrapping habit, I have long given up attempting to scrap chronologically. I just go ahead and pick whatever pictures that appeals to me or triggered a memory at the moment. In this case, I have printed this series of pictures over a year ago with the intention to scrap it. Somehow I never got around to it till last Monday. Since it was a special holiday and my printer is in the office, I decided to rummage around for something to scrap. The minute I looked at these pictures, the first thought that came to me was "she has so much possibilities". Then it struck me that I recently bought some rub-ons from Memory Lane which would be perfect for it. Not wanting to stress myself over the sketch, I picked up my handy-dandy Pagemaps book and just selected from the insterpreted ideas (I am so tamad, I didn't even bother to look at the sketch. I just decided to scraplift na lang - hehehe). Hey, my idea was to finish a page and it worked! So sue me :D

Journaling Reads: What I see when I look at you... possibility.

Quote: "As a mother, my job is to take care of the possible and trust God with the impossible." - Ruth Bell Graham

Materials Used: K&Co Amy Butler pps; Primas Baby Girl collection pps (Delight); American Crafts Ala Carte Asiago pps; Daisy D's rub-ons; BG chip stickers (Two Scoops); MM pebble brads; Prima flower; Mulberry paper; NW spiral journaling notebook (Delaney); NW self-adhesive glitter clears.

Others: Inkadinkado rubber stamp (Tin Can Mail); Fiskars decorative scissors.

Moments to Cherish

2008-08-12T21:46:00.000-07:00

During the last PS EB on November 2007, Cookie had captivated all of us with her altered clock tutorial. Almost all the members who attended that day herded their way to the mall within days to hoard on wall clocks – LOL. I was one of those who immediately bought two just in case I ran out of stock due to the frenzy she had created, which isn’t far fetched considering the track record we have as scrappers J

Sadly though, those wall clocks remained untouched for months till I had gathered enough courage to even attempt altering one for my sister-in-law. Like most of us who braved to follow Cookie’s footsteps, it seems the greatest thrill we encountered was to discover that the clock was still functioning after we had put it back together – hehehe. In fact, the joy of creating the layout for it only came in a close second. Well, at least it was for me.

So now I am down to one last clock. Thank God Cookie called on this challenge for Kaya or else it would have remained doomed in storage for more months to come. Thank you, Cookie, for this brilliant spark of inspiration. You truly are a gem to our scrapping community.

Journaling Reads: Never a moment goes by that I don’t thank God for the gift of YOU.
Materials Used: BG Perhaps pps (Beatrice & Julia); K&Co pps; Hero Arts rubber stamp (Manuscript Background); K&Co Brenda Walton embossed stickers; MM tiny alphas (Pink Ledger); American Craft glittered letter stickers (Sprinkles); Mulberry paper; Crystal blings; Cotton lace; Wall clock.

Stone Collector

2008-08-04T19:36:00.000-07:00

The original title for this layout was actually "My Daughter is a Penguin" but I got a ribbing from my bestfriend (her laughing voice still actually rings in my ears: "nobody knows penguins pick up stones except you!"). Well, in a way it is a good thing she stopped me or else this layout would've turned out to be a bomb - LOL. It is really good to have friends around you who would stop you from making a fool out of yourself - hehehe.

Now, if you think this sketch seems familiar to you, it is simply because this layout was supposed to be an entry for Tin Yao's Kaya sketch challenge. Being the notorious delinquent scrapper that I am, I was "again" too late for the deadline. Still, it is the effort that counts, right?

Journaling Reads: I never knew how fascinating rock-picking can be till I saw you meticulously collecting such an ordinary object. One would’ve thought you discovered precious gems in your front yard what with your exclamations of joy. I have to admit, my initial reaction was to grab your hands and say: “NO… that’s dirty”. But seeing your keen excitement, I lost the heart to do so. Damn the dirt and the germs… pick-up all the rocks you want my dear baby girl. Have the time of your life! Just don’t forget to wash your hands afterwards.

Materials Used: Daisy D's pps (Salt Water Taffy); MM Noteworthy pps (Addie Ledger Floral & Delaney Ledger Circle); Daisy D's cardstock stickers (Sassy Girl); MM tiny alpha stickers (black on white); American Craft Greenhouse felt flowers; MM pebble brad (Flower Funky); American Craft thickers (Daiquiri); Darys 2mm foamies; MM foam stamps (Jersey lower case); Terese Collins foam stamps (Diamonds & Paisley); Gel-a-tins clear stamp (Wallpaper Series #1); MM acrylic paint (Apricot & Meadow).

Others: Ribbon; crochetted ribbon; brads; photo turn; corkboard pin; mouse pad; MM paper scraper.

Computer font: Arial

Techniques Used: Distressing; paper-piercing; foam stamping.

The Process:

1. Adhere the blue pps on the base then estimate the location of the pictures on top.

2. Just before adhering the focal photo, stamp behind it with Teresa Collins foam stamps using acrylic paint. Then stamp the Gel-a-tins damask clear stamp using white pigment ink on the lower left of the supporting photo. After the paint and inks have dried up, glue the photos on top of these designs.

3. Using the mouse pad as a base, place your pps on top of it and start piercing around the designs you want to cut out using a pin. (top tip: use a corkboard pin so you will have a handle. It will be easier for you to control where you are going and it would not be too tiresome for your fingers). After completing the piercing process, tear out the excess design along the dotted lines. (designer's note: this will be a great technique to use for those scrappers who have difficulty using Xacto knives. Not only will it be easier for you to cut around the design, it will give your pps added texture as well).

4. Sandwich the pierced design between 2 ribbons and glue on the page. Place photo turns on both ends to make it seem like it is holding the ribbon down on the page.

5. Using the lower case of the MM Jersey foam stamp, spell the main title and cut around the letters leaving a small space around it. Then adhere 2mm Darys foamies at the back of the letters to give it added dimension. After which, glue the title to the page.

6. Spell out the second word of the title using American Craft thickers.

7. Print out the journaling on a yellow pps, cut the lines in strips and adhere to the lower part of the page.

8. Using the same yellow pps, use it to frame the Daisy D's cardstock sticker and distress around it using the MM paper scraper. Then add dimension to it by using Darys foamies and glue to the page.

9. Using the MM tiny alpha stickers, spell out the date and sub-title on the page.

10. Finish off by embellishing with the felt flower on one side of the focal pic and attaching it with a pebble brad.

Comfort Food

2008-06-23T18:22:00.000-07:00

My daughter, Sam, is a finicky eater. In fact, if it were not for the bribes of dessert, I doubt if she will be able to finish a decent meal. She has a soft spot though for dairy products, which I shamelessly abuse to my advantage - hehehe. So, to pay tribute to this wonderful concoction called Milk, I have decided to do this layout of Sam with her favorite food.

Journaling Reads: Be it chocolate, cheese, yogurt or ice cream... your favored comfort food has to have one essential ingredient - "Dede".
Materials Used: BG Sultry pps (Posh & Swell); BG Sultry chip stickers; American Craft thickers (Gift Box & Rootbeer Float); Prima Say It In Crystals; American Craft slick writer (brown); Crochetted flower; Checkered ribbon.
Other Materials: Simply Scrappy circle template; EK Success corner punch.

To Sam, age 2, to be read upon the loss of a pet.

2008-06-13T06:30:00.000-07:00

Last April, Lee Imao called for a challenge at Kaya but I was unable to submit an entry. Still, I thought it was a brilliant challenge which is too wonderful to pass up. So despite the fact that my entry is 2 months too late, here is my take of Kaya 12's "Read This When..."

Journaling Reads: You are such a sensitive and highly inventive child at 2. Some children may have imaginary friends. But you, on the other hand, have imaginary pets. You would show them to me from time to time saying, “Mama, cat oh…” or “Mama, Bruno… pet” After I have pet and returned them to you, you would carefully put them all back in your pocket. Other than Bruno and the cat, you also have a fish and vari-colored butterflies tucked safely on your side. So being a budding animal-lover that you are, I can see that you will one day need to read a letter like this.

Enclosed Letter Reads:
Everdearest Sam,

I know you feel awfully sad right now and there is nothing more you wish for than to have your beloved friend back by your side. I, myself, wish that he is still alive if only to spare you from this pain. But you have to realize, we humans live longer than our little friends and will always outlive them. So I guess, it is our fate to be always left behind to mourn their loss. When I was a child, I too, have lost a lot of pets. I cried really hard for each and every one of them. I always felt I will never love another more than the last. But it seems one more would creep into my life and I will love it for a different reason.

Why then, do you ask, if I know I will outlive all of them do I continue to have another pet? Because looking back when they were alive, I remembered how much good times we had. How I was thankful they came into my life and made it so much happier. In the same way, I am sure they are happy that they met me, too. With the care and attention I gave them, they surely love me the same way right back, if not even more. Most of all, given a choice I would rather feel the pain of their loss rather than imagine not having any one of them at all.

Do you realize why you feel so awful right now? It is because you will miss him oh so much. Because you two had so many good times together you cannot imagine a day without him. Because he is no longer just a pet, but a dear friend and companion. If you ask me, I still miss all of my long-lost friends even now that I am older. In fact, as I am writing this letter, I am suddenly reminded of the pain of their loss and I am missing all of them once more. This just goes to show, the love once we gave it never really goes away.

Every time I would start to miss them like I do right now, I comfort myself with the thought that they are also God’s creatures so He is sure to look after them. Moreover, since God also knows how much we love them, He will surely have a special place for them. A place where they will no longer be old or feel any pain. A place where they can play and jump and will never be hungry. Other people who had also lost a pet they loved dearly have a name for this special place. They call it the ‘rainbow bridge’. It is where all the pets we will ever have in our lifetime stay while we are still alive. They say it is the bridge right before heaven’s door. And when it is our time to join them, our little friends will know ahead of time and will be waiting for us at the foot of the bridge. Can you imagine how happy we will all be as we walk through heaven’s door together?

But for now, they will have to wait… and we will have to miss them. Do not worry, we will never love them any less in time and I am sure they will never forget us either. For now, you can cry all you want. It only meant that they have touched your life deeply and they will be happy to know that they mattered to you that much. And whenever you sorely miss your little friend, you can go ahead and tell me about it. I would love to hear you share your stories about the special times you had spent together.

Big warm hugs,
Mama

Materials Used: Fancy Pants PPS (Adorned & Newfangled); Black CS; Autumn Leaves transparency layers (Romantic Notions); MM 5th Ave. spiral journaling pad; K&Co. chipboard; Hampton Arts sealing wax.
Others: Brass brads; Fibers; Simply Scrappy scallop template; Quickutz Lemonade skinnimini dies; MM magnetic stamp (Rummage); Brown ink pads.
Computer Font: Calisto MT

Christmas in June

2008-06-12T08:32:00.000-07:00

I am not much of a holidays scrapper. In fact, I try to veer away from seasonal pages if I can help it. You wouldn't believe this, but I have yet to scrap Sam's very first trick or treat event. Piles of pictures awaits but I am dilly-dallying as usual. But having a fast-growing daughter somehow dictates that I document as much as I could about her life and that includes the dreaded traditional holiday pages. It took me so long to finally gather the guts to do this layout that it is now June and I am just starting to do her Christmas LO. I am such a slow scrapper - aaarrgh.

These series of pictures you see here are actually bad shots. The poor lighting somewhat made them all blurry. But I loved the fact that they captured my daughter's excitement about the season and the blurred hands made it seem like she is waving her arms to create a snow angel. So I decided, why not convert them into black and white. Somehow, the change unintentionally made the pictures look timeless and classical which I loved.

Journaling Reads: Your reaction was so spontaneous. The minute you saw the 14' tree, you started dancing around it like an angel. (Actually, the tree was only 9', but you sure made it seem taller) - Simoun '07.

Materials Used: Scrapworks Season of Joy PPS (Trim a Tree & Mistletoe); Scrapworks shimmer shapes (Season of Joy assortment); American Crafts Roller Rink glitter letter stickers; WRMK Comstock Collection PPS (Ginger); K& Co. chipboard; Brilliance dew drop ink pad (Moonlight White); Reeves glitter glue.

Others: Quickutz Magnolia cookie cutter dies; Inque Boutique rubber stamps (Boutique Grunge & Narrative Elements); sewing machine; Making Memories edge scraper; EK Success corner punch.

Stampin' Up Items For Sale

2008-04-28T01:04:00.000-07:00

Bloomin' Beautiful Stamp Set - P1,299.80

Friendship Blooms Stamp Set - Php520.00

Upside Down

2008-04-24T01:47:00.001-07:00

I was pretty lucky to have my camera on-hand when my daughter started to do her stunt. As I was reviewing the digital shots on my laptop, I was struck with the thought of the complete turnaround our lives took because of having her. Difficult though it may seem at times, but as the journaling said: “we wouldn’t want it any other way.”

The Process:
1. Adhere Danny O pps to an orange Bazzill cs.
2. Cut a small rectangular piece of blue punchinella and adhere to the page using vellum glue dots.
3. Place the focal picture on top of the punchinella. Cut the top photo in circular shape using Simply Scrappy’s ultimate circle template and matt the bottom photo in black cs.
4. Cut out 2 circular frames using the circle template and adhere on top of the small pictures. Then cut-out 2 curved arrows on black cs using the same circle template and paste on top of the circular frame.
5. Place Scenic Route die-cut arrow on top of the focal picture to frame it.
6. Estimate the coverage of the journaling space using the clear ultimate circle and mark the edge of the space by placing masking tape on the acrylic template. Using the clear template as a guide, cut the orange pps and adhere to the page. Next, use the template to cut out a black ¼” margin using black cs and paste on top of the journaling space.
7. Cut out the sub-title using Quickutz skinnimini alphas on black cs and the main title using Cuttlebug Red Tag alpha on various remnants of pps.
8. To add dimension to the page, pop up the main title using 2mm Darys foamies and glue to the top portion of the layout.
9. Cut-out airplane drawing from the pps and adhere upside down below the title.
10. Reverse print the journaling on white cs and cut in strips. Next, cut the letters piece by piece to spell out the journaling.
11. As a final touch, glue 2 pieces of orange pps on top of the punchinella and punch through 2 black metal eyelets using crop-a-dile.
12. Stamp in the date using ordinary office dater and you are done.

Journaling Reads: Talk about lifestyle change. It was surely a complete turnaround ever since you came to our lives. But we don’t even mind at all because having you was the best thing that ever happened to us. And we wouldn’t want it any other way.

Materials Used: K&Co. Danny O pps; Bazzill cs (orange, white and black); Scraps of Kaleidoscope, Danny O and Rusty Pickle pps (for the titling); Scenic Route Die Cut (Savannah Arrows); Darys 2mm foamies; Simply Scrappy Ultimate Circle template; Cuttle Bug Red Tag Sale alpha dies; Quickutz Lemonade SkinniMini cookie cutter dies.
Others: Punchinella; Eyelets.
Font: Adler

Small Hands

2008-04-24T01:03:00.000-07:00

Initially, I joined the Webster’s Pages challenge last January 2008 due to the incessant bidding of my best friend, Au. She kept brain-washing me practically every time we talk on the phone. She was saying: “Vivian is giving out three prizes. Not one, but THREE. So you’ll have more chances of landing at least one of them”. Au didn’t have to twist my arm too tight because as we all know, Lasting Impression is one of the foremost and biggest local store we have here in the Philippines. I mean, who wouldn’t want a free ticket to shop in Vivian’s store?!

I have to admit, I felt I was shooting for the moon when I was aiming for the third place. But I was desperate. I have been eyeing one of Vivian’s merchandise for the longest time, the “Page In Progress”. I felt with the third place voucher in the bag, I only need to shell out half the price. That was motivation enough for me to give it a try.

What I did not expect though was that I would overshoot my mark, let alone hit anything. I mean, after seeing the roster of talent who submitted for the challenge PLUS the awesome entries - it was anybody’s game. The judge could as well pull out a name from the hat and she could not go wrong. The entries are all fabulous! See for yourself: http://lastingimpressionph.com/gallery2/thumbnails.php?album=9

So it really came as a huge surprise for me when Lee called up last March 21, 2008 which was a Good Friday to tell me I won in the challenge - and FIRST PLACE at that! I honestly thought she was pulling my leg. Half my mind was wishing desperately she was not but the other half would not believe it is true either. Talk about feeling confused. LOL!

Then as if the prize money was not enough, the gracious judge Ms. Brandin O’ Neill who is the Co-Owner and Executive Designer of Webster’s Pages has this to say about my entry: “It’s not always easy incorporating all muted colors to make a visual impact. This designer did just that. The layering and positioning of the papers balanced with the image shows off the pureness of the design with the perfect innocence of the photo. The sweet message that the photo speaks is how we would like our papers to talk…if they had a voice! We love this layout. Bravo!” Now THAT totally blew my mind. I was in sheer heaven! I mean, wouldn’t you?

Thank you very much Vivian for calling this challenge and THANK YOU Ms. O’ Neill for the wonderful comment. I am deeply moved.

Hidden journaling reads: These small hands will one day grow into a useful instrument capable in aiding you to achieve great things in your life. But inasmuch as it can do you a lot of good, it is also capable of hurting a lot of people. A simple wave of a hand can dismiss another human being seeking for help. It can also stop somebody from expressing their sincere sentiments with just an open palm raised to their face. So you see, my dear, you are borne with a grave responsibility along with the privilege of its use.

Please also remember, your hands do not have a mind of their own but instead carry on your will. Use them well. Let your conscience guide you. May you always use these hands as God intended: to aide your fellow men and to comfort those whom you cannot help with a simple touch that says: “I care”.

Materials used: Webster’s Pages Sweet Charity Collection PPS (Bouquet; Primrose Garden; Baby’s Breath); Webster’s Pages Vintage Home Collection letter stickers; Tres Jolie Tres Bien play cards; Prima Flower; MM Noteworthy Flower & Buttons; MM Floral/Dings foam stamp; White acrylic paint; Darys 2mm foamies; Crochetted ribbons; Simply Scrappy circle template.

So Cool

2008-04-23T23:56:00.001-07:00

There are simply some pages when everything seems to be working with you. Perhaps to start off with, you may really like your picture. Or the paper came together nicely. But mostly in my case, it happens when I have a very good foundation which is the layout for the base papers. Once I have that, everything follows because embellishing now is a breeze. I just have to make sure that the colors and mood of the embellishment works with the base and I am guaranteed a page I am going to be pleased with.

This is an example of an easy layout. It is mostly cut and paste. I did not do any inking on it to maintain the fresh and crisp look to match the casual picture. I really had fun in embellishing this page. Even ruining the first set of chipboards I attempted to use for the titling did not dampen my mood. When I discovered that I am out of the letter “o” for the alternative font, I simply followed the common trick of replacing some letters with large, circular brads.

Journaling reads: Nothing beats the summer heat better than going bare top and having a tall, cool drink in your hands. - Summer 2008

Materials used: DCWV cs; BG Romani pps (Pooro; Amber); Romani tag; American Craft thickers (Gift Box); Prima flower; Scenic Route cardstock stickers; Daisy D’s cardstock die-cuts; K&Co. Kimberly Hodges grand adhesion; Foof-A-La epoxy stickers; Artline acid-free pen; Simply Scrappy deckler and stitching guide.
Others: Button; Brads; Rick rack; Various ribbons; gold staple wire; Needle and thread.

Relax

2008-04-18T20:21:00.001-07:00

You know how we sometimes get terrified with using new and beautiful papers? Well, I found a technique for it: I let it stay long enough in my stash and when it gets old, it is not so daunting to use after all. Bad suggestion, I know – hehehe.

Now for the longest time, I didn’t know what to do with these papers. I kept staring at the big butterfly-looking frond and I’m stuck. Eventually I said: “What the heck, let’s cut it and see what I can do with it afterwards.” Midway through my cutting, I suddenly had a stroke of inspiration to turn it into a lotus and put my daughter’s picture smack right in the middle. To achieve this, I cut of the right top-most petal since it is going to be covered with the focal picture anyway and moved the petal at the bottom to fill-in the space there.

I then used a decorative shear to cut the aqua blue Chi-chi pps to give the base some semblance of texture. After all, it would be just too boring if all the pps are lined up horizontally with nothing to break the straight lines. After adhering all the base pps, I thought I’d raise the ready-made title using Darys 2mm foamies in order to create dimension.

The cluster of buttons you see on this page, was actually a collaboration with my artistic husband, Alain. I was looking for matching buttons and simply dumped a fistful of it on top of the page. My husband who was standing beside me said: “Hey wait, what if you do this” then he grabbed the buttons and dumped them as well to the top right portion of the page. He then said “Don’t move that… just glue them where they are”. You know what? I must agree, he was right! :D

Journaling reads: Your picture here said it all: you looked so at ease in these Crocs. For what it lacked in looks, it totally made up in comfort. In fact, the minute you put on your first pair, you were in flight. Being the over-indulgent mother that I am, I immediately bought you several pairs which would probably last you throughout your toddler years. -
Your very first pair of Crocs – April 2007

Materials used: Fancy Pants Chi-chi PPS; Kaleidoscope PPS (“Memories” Dots/Orange Paper); K& Co. Brenda Walton die-cut cardstock for the title; K&Co. Brenda Walton chipboard; Prima flowers; Me & My Big Ideas designer chipboard alpha; Beyond Postmarks metal art; Darys 2mm Foamies; Studio Azul Jan’08 kit buttons; Brad with bling.
Computer Font: Maiandra GD

Small Talk

2008-04-18T20:13:00.001-07:00

Whenever I am stuck with my ideas, but still needs to practice on this craft (and you would have to agree practice and experience are actually all we need to be better at this) I find it takes a lot of pressure off if I decide to do a direct scraplifting. For example, this layout right here is a direct scraplift from Sarah Winnick’s “Photoshoot” (Simple Scrapbook Mar/Apr 2008 issue).

I know of a couple of scrappers that may cringe at the thought of “direct scraplifting”. They may think that it is unoriginal and not challenging enough. But I beg to differ. Scraplifting, for me, takes skill to accomplish. It is not really easy to replicate another person’s technique let alone stay true to the original sketch. Also, more often than not, the embellishments they used are unavailable and that is where the challenge kicks in. You would have to be creative and find or sometimes even manufacture a replacement for it. In the end, it is very satisfying to see how close you can come to the original and yet give it your own flavor.

Journaling reads: Upon hearing the next-door neighbor’s dog barking: “Mama, dog. Bite you!” Complete with fierce grabbing gesture of both hands. “Also cat. The same-the same.” - Sam at 2 yrs. 2 mos.

Materials used: Beige & brown Bazzill CS; Kaleidoscope “School Days” Solid/Green Paper PPS; Bohemia Barefoot “Family” Small Stripe/ Torquise PPS; Bohemia “Play” Polka Dot/Red PPS; American Crafts “Platform” chipboard letter stickers; AAS chipboard embellishment; Simply Scrappy circle template; Stamp Art mini pop dots; Inque Boutique “Beautiful” rubber stamp; Colorbox stamp pad; Clear embossing powder; Buttons; Rick rack.
Computer font: Bookman Old Style

3 Wishes

2008-04-18T19:12:00.001-07:00

For sure, I am not alone in stating that it terrifies me sometimes to share my layouts in public for fear of falling short of other people’s expectations. This is actually the main reason why for three months, I was immobilized and therefore went on a self-proclaimed hiatus. Just to sort myself and my priorities. Why and for whom I am scrapping in the first place. It happens sometimes, you know, when we are in the thick of the matter that we would look up and find ourselves lost.

In the end I realized, I am doing this for myself… because it makes me HAPPY. So it shouldn’t matter what people think. But I would have to admit, the fear of embarrassment is still at the back of my mind. It hasn’t really gone away. I just chose to ignore it as much as I could, focus on my main goal and also on the task at hand. Hopefully, as I gain more experience, my self-confidence would follow.

Journaling reads:
I wish I would not mind so much what other people think of my layouts and learn to trust my own instinct. That I would not be so easily intimidated by the hordes of talent surrounding me.
I wish I will learn to relax and not “live by the rules”. That I will learn to play and enjoy the process as it should be.
I wish to train my thoughts not to get distracted from the main purpose why I am scrapping in the first place. That is to document my family’s lives for posterity and to write down my thoughts and experiences so that my daughter may benefit from them in the future even when I am not around anymore. But most importantly, because it makes me HAPPY. Just about the only time I am made unhappy with scrapbooking is whenever I am riddled with the fear of judgment and expectations. I wish I can overcome these uncertainties and finally fulfill my 3 wishes.

Materials used: Perhaps CS (Firebird); Crate Paper “Samantha Collection” PPS; Fancy Pants rub-on; Brenda Walton Grand adhesions; 7 Gypsies photo anchor; Swarovski gem.
Others: Beige CS; Lace; Rick rack.
Computer Font: Bookman Old Style

Altered Clock

2008-04-17T19:20:00.001-07:00

During the last Pinoyscrapbookers EB, Cookie Aguillar generously shared with us a tutorial for making a unique and personalized gift. Ever since then, I had been itching to try my hands on this altered clock project. It wasn’t till last January 2008 when sister-in-law visited us from China that I was given a reason to make one as a special gift for her.

Surprisingly, this was a pretty easy project to do. In fact, I finished it in one sitting. But if you ask me, my best accomplishment for this project was the fact that the clock was still working right after I put it back together. I was so overjoyed. So happy, I had to do a Dr. Frankenstein impersonation: “It is alive… Alive!” - LOL. Thank you Cookie for this wonderful idea :D

Materials used: Making Memories “Boho Chic” PPS; Hero Arts “Italian Poetry Background” rubber stamp; Brown Ancient Pages stamp pad; Fancy Pants rub-on; K&Co. Brenda Walton embossed stickers; Three Bugs in a Rug “Chitchat” cardstock die-cut stickers; Stampin’ Up tab punch; American Crafts “Remarks” thickers; Reeves glitter glue.
Others: Blings; Lace.

Favorite Words

2008-04-17T18:36:00.001-07:00

My eldest brother Henry is completely bonkers over my daughter. He goes to my mother's house where my daughter is staying while I'm away at work. I mean, he goes there 3x a day just to see her! Anyway, he did this list of my daughter's favorite words and compiled drawings (some he lovingly did, himself in Corel Draw). I decided to use the materials he did and integrated it in my LO. For the title font and color scheme, I used a box of Have It All vitamin as my source of inspiration.

There is no actual journaling, but in case you are curious what this toddler-talk means, here it is: Ma-Do - Mc Do; Eber - Hippo; Bider - Spider; Wain - Rain; Nanana - any device that has an ear piece (Ipod, cellphone, etc.); Aufufu - Octopus; Da - Frog (don't ask me why...) ; Wai-O-Wai - Dragonfly; Dader - Turtle; Owait - Chocolate; and Mem - Worm.

Materials Used: Bazzill, Making Memories, DCWV cardstocks; Various scraps of PPS (Scenic Route, American Craft, Chatterbox, Cherry Arte, DCWV); Cotton Lace; Blings; Buttons; Eyelets; Flowers; White alphabet rub-ons.

Computer font: Impact

Round Robin

2008-04-17T17:43:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Christine Villacarlos for spear-heading this delightful round robin wherein Pinoyscrapbookers joined in to scraplift fellow scrap members. Given the time constraint for each person, I was compelled to do a simple LO using ready-made products including the chipboard for my titling. As a subject, I used pictures of my youngest fur baby, Tobi Wan Kenobi who is an endearing pet.

It was Love at First Sight
Journaling reads: The first time we met, you sneezed at me and I am smitten – truly, madly, deeply.

Materials used: Prima Aurora Collection pps; Me & My Big Ideas designer chipboard; Hambly Vintage Circle Frame; Hambly rub-ons; Fancy Pants rub-on; Prima Say It In Crystals; Pebeo; Reeves glitter glue; Swarovski crystals; punchinella; alphabet rub-ons.

My Hero

2008-04-17T17:37:00.000-07:00

I made this LO as a going-away memento for a wonderful friend, Joanne Yap. She is one of the driving force behind the Scrappin’ Moms and the brains behind the Idol challenge. She is this passionate and very inspiring person who never scrimped on her scrapping know-how. She may not be aware of it, but she has changed the lives of a lot of Filipina scrappers (me, being one of them) and we are all forever grateful for her unrelenting support and infinite kindness.

Materials used: American Craft pps; K&Co chipboards; 7 Gypsies journaling card; Cuttlebug ornamental dies; Prima flowers; Colorbox inkpads; Black Staz-on; Simply Scrappy circle template.
Others: Acrylic paint; Brass metal eyelets; Brads; Various brass embellishments; Scallop lace; Blings.

GDT Stint

2008-04-17T02:25:00.000-07:00

Right after the Scrappin’ Moms Idol Challenge, I was deeply honored to be asked by my very good friend, Mitch Sy Ong to do two layouts for her as Guest Design Team for Visual Creations. For these projects, I used American Craft pps and thickers which are delightful to use indeed. To see more of the wonderful materials she carries online, you can check out http://www.visualcreationsonline.net.

Lovely
The sketch for the base paper of this layout was actually a scraplift. It has been so long ago, I regret I was unable to take down the name of the designer so I can give her due credit. Now, if you think I am this good at making the sloping background, let me tell you one thing - I cheated. I used a flexible ruler to lightly pencil in the outline for the base paper and later hand-cut them.

Top trick: The secret to making a smooth-looking cut is to use long bladed scissors and keeping your cutting hand steady as you move the paper around. It is also important not to cut to the edge of the scissors and instead move forward when you get to more than half the blade length. That way, you can have more control of your cutting tool. Another word of advise, avoid using pigment inkpads to outline the edge of your paper like what I did here. As usual, I learned the hard way because I found out it takes ages for the pigment ink to dry up. Therefore, I ended up with smudges on the adjoining cs. It is a good thing I discovered that pigment ink smudges are sometimes reversible by using an ordinary eraser. Whew!

Glow
The secondary picture for this layout was actually a bad shot. It is a good thing I was able to zoom in really tight and cropped out the dark portions of the digital picture, therefore, preserving the wonderful expression of my daughter. The big scallop you see here is actually inspired by one of the beautiful LOs of Mia Caniza. Of course, my LOs cannot compare to her ingenious creations but I just could not resist being motivated by this talented lady.

The Finals

2008-04-16T23:44:00.000-07:00

The Idol Finals... who would have thought that I would triumph over my personal challenge of finishing in time? Everything went so fast, all I remembered was putting on my music player earphones and the rest is a blur. The next thing I know, they were announcing there would be five minutes left. So I pasted the journaling, wrote on the index card and stood up. I was already infront when I realized, not only did I finish in time - I actually finished first! How is that for personal triumph? Alright!

These are three of the most talented ladies I know: Au, Cabbie and Tin. I mean, who would not be proud to have these down-to-earth ladies numbered amongst her closest scrapping buddies. Them, being no less than, the Top Three Finalists for the Scrappin' Moms Idol Challenge! Woo-hooo! That was six months ago, yet till now, I could not help smiling fondly as I look at this picture of their most triumphant moment.

Pre-Idol Finals

2008-04-16T22:17:00.000-07:00

Au and I would be the first to admit, we are two of the slowest scrappers - ever - and so the thought of the 3-hours time limit for the Idol Finals really terrifies us. We were afraid we might not finish in time and embarass ourselves infront of other people. LOL.

It seems ages ago, in fact I can't even remember who suggested it, but one of the girls said why not make a trial run. That way, we can estimate if we can indeed finish in time. There were supposed to be six of us, but Lee and Cabbie couldn't make it to our weekly GNO meet. So it was up to Mia, Tin, Au and I to make the trial run. Mitch was such an angel, she provided us with the "free" secret uniformed kit so all of us would be in even standing when we see the papers. Thank you very much Mitch.

I then borrowed my sister's egg-timer (picture of the chicken-timer to follow). Now, I don't know if the chicken was such a good idea. It was ticking so loudly it felt like a time bomb was about to go off any minute. Finally, Mia had to blurt out: "take that chicken away from me!" She said she was at her wits end and is about to throw it against the wall. Needless to say, I moved very fast. I wouldn't want my sister to stop talking to me simply because I returned her chicken in pieces - hehehe

Despite the fact Cabbie couldn't make it that day, she still participated by doing a delayed run. I specifically instructed her not to open her kit and to buzz me via YM so I can time her. You wouldn't freakin' believe it... she did in less than half the time - which is I guess why she "is" the Scrappin' Moms Idol Champion!

The Idol Journey

2008-04-16T21:34:00.000-07:00

It had been a long while since I have updated my blog. Let’s see now, why was it that I stopped? Aaahhh, yes… I remember, it was because I got so engrossed with the Scrappin Moms’ Idol Challenge last year. Now there’s an experience of a lifetime.

Funny where one picks-up opportunities to discover things about one’s self. I bet some people may see the Idol competition as just a two-months long scrapping challenge. But for me and the rest of the participants, it was nothing short of a scrapbooking booth camp. In fact, there was a running joke between us participants that whenever the Scrappin’ Moms would issue their weekly challenges, it is akin to them barking we jump into hoops (and oh boy, some of those hoops are so tight and really seem impossible to achieve). That, we should never ask “Why?” but instead “How high, drill sergeant SIR?!”

Now, majority of the participants whom I had spoken with initially got into the competition for the experience and the fun of it. As the challenges became more demanding, I would have to admit, my natural competitive and survival instinct started to kick it. Towards the end, when I felt I was ready to fold and throw in the towel, it was not about competition anymore. It somehow evolved into something more personal. It became a journey. And I am not embarrassed to admit, this Idol journey was one of the shining moment in my scrapping experience which I will never forget. Thank you Scrappin’ Moms!

RAK My World

2007-11-29T19:26:00.001-08:00

Recently, Marj Velarde sent a call to fellow PS members to make a slide show of their scrapnook and stash. In return, she will be generously raffling off scrapbooking supplies to 5 lucky winners who complied. Which was very timely for me since I was in the process of rearranging my scrap area. What I didn't expect was my reaction when I started taking the pictures. I am not sure if it was intended by Marj, but all of a sudden I was made aware of the volume of stash I have already acquired. It literally made me stop taking pictures and sit down to think about it. By the next day, I have strengthened my resolve not to buy any more stuff until I have used 80% of my stamps, paint, dies and tools. I have also decided to stop buying any embellishments and finally buy myself clothes which God knows I desperately need. As for the PPS, I promise to buy only those that has no similar theme in my stash and/or I intend to scrap immediately because I already have an available picture for it. Now, the question is, can I keep these resolutions? Well see...

Thank you very much, Marj for the wake-up call :D

San Francisco

2007-10-10T04:25:00.000-07:00

Well, whaddayaknow, this time, it ain't a scraplift - hehehe. Plus, I got to use some of those trinkets in the $1 bag of buttons and mismatched jewelries I bought from a flea market on a trip from Chicago. I've been hoarding this bag for years so I'm thrilled that my being a pack rat finally paid off.

By the way, notice that nameplate which I turned sideways? It is made of aluminum. In order to distress it and turn it to pewter grey, I got myself a sponge and lightly dipped it in black Staz-On. Then I dabbed it onto the silver nameplate leaving a speckled effect which is really kewl - I liked it! :D Give it a try, you'd be surprised how easy it is.

Hidden Journaling Reads: It was supposed to be a family trip but for Alain and I, it felt like a long-overdue honeymoon. Out of all the places we went to, San Francisco is the one place we held dearest to our heart. We both adore the quaint rows of houses, sloping streets, cable cars, picture windows with a cat perched on it drinking in the sun and its beautiful, cold weather. It felt like we were both transported back in time and we were like the cat drinking in every minute of it. Even now, whenever I close my eyes, I can almost smell the cinnamon and orange-peel potpourri which permeates the hallway of the Cartwright Hotel where we stayed in. We both yearn to come back someday, just the two of us to rekindle our romance with San Francisco and fall in love with each other all over again.

Materials Used: DCWV white core CS; Rusty Pickle Mayflower PPS (Priscilla Mullins; Myles Standish; Capt. William Bradford); Prima flower; Craft Express chipboard alphabet; Tres Jolie Tres Bien play card; MM Acrylic Paint; Staz-On.

Other Materials Used: Railway tickets; paper crimper; cotton lace; brass embelise; silver nameplate; U.S. coins; ribbons.

Sensitive

2007-10-09T07:43:00.000-07:00

I was preparing for the Kaya 4 challenge so I decided to do a layout to try the techniques I intended to use for the actual entry. This may seem like a simple page but the procedure is somewhat tedious. If there is one problem I have, it is the grouping of items. Since the Kaya challenge involves ephemera, I thought it would be interesting to do a collage.

Since, like I said, this is primarily a test-LO, I decided not to give myself a hard time and simply scraplifted from Pagemaps' August issue. This was originally interpreted by Becky Fleck in a 8.5"x11" format. I converted it to 12"x12" but had to make adjustments. Good thing the flower I used was big enough to extend and cover the empty space on the side. I entitled it "Sensitive" because Biscuit has this adorably, sensitive face. Very expressive (in my own biased opinion, that is - LOL).

Journaling Reads: You had to have a heart of stone not to fall in love with a face like this.

Techniques Used: Collage; Distressing; Sewing; Paper tearing; Crackle-finish.

Materials Used: 7 Gypsies PPS; Rusty Pickle PPS; DCWV white-core CS; Craft Express alphabet chipboard; K&Co. chipboard; Prima flower; MM Brads; Staz-On; Dymo tape; Crackle medium; Acrylic paint; Brass embellies; Ribbons; Buttons; Metal bookplate.
Other Materials: Simply Scrappy deckler and sewing template.

Read

2007-07-29T23:07:00.000-07:00

I am so loving Simply Scrappy's circle template, as well as, Craft Express' chipboard alphabet. In fact, I have been using these two items for three consecutive LOs already. Au's template definitely made scrapping easier for me, it saves me a lot of time and I'm thrilled with the result everytime. As for the chipboard alphabet, I love the dimension it creates on my page and I liked the fact that I can paint it any color that would match my LO. But as they say, one must have diversity in life... perhaps for my next LO, I'll challenge myself to use Au's folder template instead. Can't wait to go back to the drawing board :D

Journaling Reads: If there's one thing I wish to nurture in you, it would be the love for reading. Books will allow you to travel in exotic and mystical places. It can take you back in time or zoom you far into the future. You'll get an insight on other people's lives and will surely enlighten you on a lot of subjects. It thrills me to imagine what you can discover in them and can't wait for you to experience these for yourself.

Inspiration: Becky Fleck's Page Map July 2007

Materials Used: Prima Petal Poetry pps (Lyrical, Refrain and Prose); Bazzill cs; Prima flowers; Craft Express chipboard alphabet; Hero Arts' Italian Poetry rubber stamp; Colorbox Copper Swift pigment ink; Artline Pen.

Other Materials: Simply Scrappy circle template; Cotton lace; ribbon; brass embellishments; rhinestone; acrylic paint.

Chasing Bubbles

2007-07-27T18:23:00.000-07:00

Have you ever had that experience wherein after attaching the series of pictures to your LO, you find the lines separating the pictures to be distracting? Also, there might be items in the picture you wish wasn't there, or worse, you made a mistake just before putting the finishing touches to your LO. This happens to me once in a while (oh all right, a lot 'more' than once), and my usual solution for this dilemma are either create a distraction or camouflage the annoying item. In this LO, you will notice that I intentionally overlapped the swirl on the lines separating the pictures. Additionally, I placed a circle cut-out on the uneven grass line (Nita laments: "it was almost perfect, the last 2 pictures have already aligned - Bah!"). These are diversionary tactics I employ to hide an imperfection in the picture or the LO. Just make sure though that the camouflage wouldn't over-power the pictures or else it would defeat the purpose. Now I just hope I didn't over-power mine ~ LOL. Tell me what you think :D

Journaling Reads: Follow your dreams as you would chase these bubbles, with flight on your feet and joy in your heart.

Materials Used: WRMK Precious Metal Pewter Press Cinta & Jardin pps; Bazzill cs; Daisy D's journaling cardstock; Craft Express chipboard alphabet; Reeve's glitter glue; Acrylic Paint; 2mm thk. Daris Foamies.

Other Materials: Simply Scrappy circle template; Funky Brush Sizzlits alphabet.

Simply Because

2007-07-12T21:30:00.000-07:00

I have been scraplifting since April of this year and happily contented about it. I must admit, I've never been as productive and creative as when I embraced this approach. It helps me get started and propel me to finish an LO in no time. As Jana Lillie puts it in Creative Keepsakes, "(scraplifting is) the art of taking someone else's good idea for a page, accent or technique and adapting it for your own creation. You look like a genius - and you don't have to break a sweat. What's not to love?" I totally agree :D (Thanks Lee, for the quote)

Journaling Reads: This picture is begging to be scrapped simply because you looked adorable in it.

Inspiration: Becky Fleck's June 2006 Page Map sketch.

Materials Used: Daisy D's Playground Plaid and Sidewalk Chalk Plaid pps; Heidi Swapp Hibiscus foam stamp; Memory Makers Magnetic Stamp (Rummage); Craft Express chipboard alphabet; Imaginations Camp Grandma stickers.

Other Materials: Simply Scrappy Circle Template; Acrylic paint; Pigment Ink; Embossing powder; Ribbons; Colored staple wire.

The Process:

1. Cut out the scalloped edge using the smallest circle in Simply Scrappy's circle template.

2. Lightly pencil a circle outline and use it as a guide for foam stamping the hibiscus flowers using acrylic paint. Then attach the picture w/c was outlined w/ white acrylic paint and stamp the corner w/ more hibiscus flowers. (By the way, don't do what I did... as expected, I was in a hurry again to stick my components together that I neglected to paint the edges of the photo 'before' attaching it. Doh! I was forced to mask the paper outside of the photo with magic tape before using a brush to paint the white outline on the picture. Important note: run the magic tape on your clothes several times to lessen the stickiness before using it to mask the paper)

3. Paint the chipboard alphabet with lavender acylic paint. Let it dry and attach w/ liquid glue to the page.

4. Use alphabet stickers to spell out the sub-title.

5. Use pigment ink and alphabet rubber stamp for the journaling. Then sprinkle w/ embossing powder and set w/ heat gun.

6. For the finishing touch, attach 3 different ribbons using colored staple wire.

Construction Process of Mini Album

2007-07-10T23:51:00.000-07:00

STEP 1: Cut several pieces of Canson cs 5"x6", this will comprise the pages of your mini-album. Score 1" from the bottom leaving 5"x5" for your pictures and decorative elements. Embellish back-to-back as desired but leave the 1" section undecorated.

STEP 2: Put all the 5"x6" pages together and pierce 5 holes just below the scored portion. Place mini-brads on the 5 holes and secure at the back.

STEP 3: Cut Section A and B according to the sizes indicated above. Score and fold along dotted lines.

STEP 4: Attach Section A to the 5"x6" pages and Section B by using 3 pieces of decorative brads. Make sure to pierce the brads all the way to Section B as indicated on the 'Side View' figure above. By the way, when you put the 5"x6" pages against Section B, you'll notice that there will be more than a 1/2" gap at the bottom. That's alright considering these will be covered later by the back portion of Section A.

STEP 5: Attach the back portion of Section A to B using liquid glue or glue dots to hide the folded legs of the 3 decorative brads (see 'Back View') and your mini-album is finished :D

First Mini Album

2007-07-01T23:58:00.000-07:00

My sister who lives abroad had been asking me for new copies of my daughter's pictures. Since my two other sisters are flying in to visit her, I thought what better way to send her the pictures than present it in a mini album format. That way, she will be able to see my handiwork and who knows, it might even encourage her to send me scrap stuff as 'pasalubong' - hehehe.

But since I've kept putting it off for so long, before I knew it, I was only left last week to finish the project. Initially, I planned to use my scrap materials to do the mini album. But since I printed all my pictures in colored, I had a very difficult time restricting the color of the pps and ended up with various and non-related theme and colors. While doing the 3rd page, I got so frustrated I decided to scratch the whole thing and start anew. This time, I restricted myself to 3 sheets of pps. But since I only have 1 sheet of each pps, I have to find ways to make sure that I will have enough for all the pages and the cover, as well. To top it off, I only had 2 nights left to finish the task so I decided to forego with any journaling. I also decided not to use any stamping or distressing techniques and just concentrate on cutting and pasting the components. But I think the biggest help in simplifying my task was my decision to reprint all the pictures in black and white. That really took a load off my back.

Album Size: 5"x6-1/2" Matchbook type.

Materials Used: MME Tres Jolie pps 1) "Smile" Stripe/Corall Papier 2) "Love" Damask/Light Rose Papier 3) "Birthday Girl" Floral/Light Rose Papier; Canson cs as base paper; Kelly Panacci stickers; Rebecca Sower stickers; MM vintage brads.

Others: Simply Scrappy square template; corner rounder; ribbons; brass and gold embellies.

Stolen Moments

2007-06-17T22:47:00.001-07:00

You were right all along, Nina... Iris Uy is herself the muse. She left a message on my blog last weekend, so you can just imagine how ecstatic I was (can you imagine my tail wagging all over the place? That's how thrilled I was!). Anyway, she got me so hyped up, I was able to finish this LO I scraplifted from Page Maps. Initially, it was the scallops that got me interested. Since I've been intending to try doing one for a long while, I decided to scraplift that section of the LO. The arrangement of the pps was from Becky Fleck's sketch. As for the rest of the inspiration, it was Iris-borne - hehehe.

Do feel free to critique my work. For once, I'd really like to hear what people honestly think can improve the subject LO. It may make you feel a bit uncomfortable telling me your opinion, but hey, if it will improve my work, wouldn't you like to help out? Thanks in advance to the brave ones who will step forward. I really appreciate your effort.

Hidden Journaling Reads: Being a working mother, I live a harried and stressful life. But for half an hour everyday… just before I set off to work, I get to have this window of opportunity to have my daughter all to myself. And for a brief moment, my daughter and I get lost in a world of ‘a-foo-foo’ (octopus), ‘e-pen’ (airplane) and ‘ebysees’ (ABC). We would either draw pictures or read a book. We also get to play hide and seek or sing and dance. I would make up short ditties and sing silly songs for her. She, on the other hand would clap at my senseless stories or do an interpretative dance to my tuneless racket. It is great to discover a captive audience during these stolen moments. And for a short instance, time really does stand still for the both of us.

Materials Used: BG Phoebe Sausalito pps; Telegraph Hill pps; The Presidio pps; Bazzill cs; Kelly Panacci stickers; Prima flowers; Stamp-N Stuff Embossing Tinsel (Copper); Tres Jolie Tres Bien “Play” Card.

Others: Brass embellishment; Swarovski crystals; white acrylic paint; Sizzix Funky Brush alphabet; cotton lace; mini-brads.

The Process: First, I used the pinking and mini-scallop decorative blade of the Carl trimmer to edge the Telegraph Hill and The Presidio pps, and adhered them to the Sausalito cs. Then, instead of matting the picture, I chose to distress the edges with acrylic paint. Before liberally swiping the foam brush on edges of the picture, I dabbed it several times on a dry tissue to take off majority of the acrylic paint. This is to give the picture that weathered yet dreamy soft edges.

After which, I moved on to estimate the area to be covered by the scrolls and cut a 4”x12” Bazzill cs. Then I lightly sketched the scrolls free-hand using a pencil. It is okay to have the initial sketch uneven after all, it is simply a guide and you can later smooth out the edge when you cut it with a pair of scissors. Since I will later be covering the scrolls with embossing tinsels (copper), I intentionally drew and cut the swirls in three separate sections (you can do four if you feel it will make it easier for you to handle).

You need not worry if the three edges do not meet perfectly because it will later be covered by the big Prima flower. After cutting them out, I started with the smallest scroll and dabbed it in the clear embossing pad. Next, I sprinkled the embossing powder and melted it with the heat gun. On the first pass, majority of the embossing tinsels were blown away by the heat gun leaving patches of unevenly melted sections on the cardstock. Since I thought I already ruined it, there was no harm in making it any worse and repeated the process like I would do with a UTEE. Surprisingly, the second layer of embossing powder adhered better on the scroll. Perhaps because the embossing pad liquid were not absorbed by the smoothed out surface of the embossed cs. I did the same on the remaining two sections of the swirl but I noticed that the biggest one needed a third layer. It was a great discovery for me that if I make a mistake on one layer, I can just continue heating it with the gun and prayed that the next layer will make it look better, which it did. By the way, I found it better for me to melt the powder if I laid the scrolls flat on a magazine or folded newspaper. That way, I can protect the surface of my working area from any stray melted powders.

Next, I used the Sizzlits Funky Brush die to spell out the title and individually embossed the letters with the same embossing powder. Since the letters were much smaller than the scrolls, they were blown away by the strong heated air of the gun. To hold them in place, I used a pair of long-handled tweezers (not to pin them down but) as a wedge along both side the letters so when I apply the strong heated air, the small letters may move a little but will not be blown or tipped over by the gun. As with the scrolls, I noticed that the letters too needed at least two to three applications of the embossing powder. Now here’s a tip, it is better to position the heat gun directly downward. That way, the strong air will push the scrolls or letters towards the newspaper and not blow it sideways. I must also inform you to expect light smoke to emanate from the melting powder and just glide the gun slowly to the next area as soon as you see the powder turn shiny.

After almost giving up from the tedious effort of individually embossing the letters, I gladly moved on to cutting the 4” diameter Prima flower in half. I used one to cover the ends of the sectioned scrolls. The other half I adhered to the top section of the Tres Jolie Tres Bien “Play” Card which contains my journaling. But first, I cut the top section of the card to follow the stamped design and glued two sizes of Swarovski crystal on selected ends of the swirl design. Then I glued the picture on the base pps and slid the card underneath the top section of the picture. Finally, I cut the cotton-lace to size and pinned them to the pps using mini-brads as a finishing touch.

Now here’s the most important part: After gluing all the components and embellishments together, allow yourself to do your very own version of “The Jig” as you sway towards the ref for a much-deserved can of coke or chunk of chocolate. Do not forget, too, to pat yourself at the back between each swigs of coke or bites of delicious chocolate. Then you can go ahead and call your best friends to brag about your newest LO.

Cousins

2007-06-11T21:17:00.000-07:00

During the weekend, I visited the online album of Iris Uy just to see her new LOs. Halfway through, I was already in awe and a pang of self-pity was creeping in. By the time I finished, I was muttering to myself: “My LOs looks like Sugar-Honey-Iced-Tea. I know nothing… nothing!” Her album definitely has a humbling effect on me and I was left questioning my capability as a scrap booker. That night, I decided to do an LO but my muse had abandoned me altogether. She must have been driven out in shame by Iris’ work of arts. I sat for 2-1/2 hours staring at the picture I have printed earlier and the papers I have chosen the day before. Nothing came to me. I looked up at the wall clock and it said 12 midnight, and I haven’t even cut a piece of paper yet. Finally I said to myself: “Oh heck, you’re not as good an artist as Iris, but who’s to stop you from getting inspirations from her work.” So I cut the first piece of paper to commit myself.

I noted that Iris has this fondness for putting a bunch of flowers on one corner of the photo so I decided to duplicate that. She’s also fearless about using a dark background and I decided to experiment on that as well. The outcome is nothing close compared to hers, but it’s mine. And for now, I’ll have to be content with that. But it wouldn’t stop me from continuing to aspire and practice (a whole lot) so at least my LOs would look less of a Sugar-Honey-Iced-Tea next to hers. Thank you for the inspiration Iris. I only wish I’d be half as good as you in the future.

Hidden Journaling Reads: I just love this picture of you with your favorite cousin, Nadia. It clearly shows how much you enjoy her company. Now, mind you, your Di-Tsi Nadia is an imp and she just loves toying with you – but you never seem to mind. I guess deep down inside you know she adores you and you are only too happy to do what she asks.

Materials Used: Bazzill cs; Kaleidoscope “Make A Wish” pps; Kaleidoscope “Princess” Flower pps; Craft Express Glitter Stickers; Kimberly Hodges Embossed Stickers; 7 Gypsies Happiness Card.
Others: Kulascel Ultimate Circle; MM Brads; Ribbon; Sizzlits Roundabout alphabet; Colorbox Chalk Ink.

Sweetheart

2007-06-05T18:48:00.000-07:00

I have to say, this month’s PS challenge left me stumped for days. On top of which, my husband has been bullying me to do a lay-out of his ‘sports’ bike. He refuses to have it called a motorcycle (eyes rolling). Eventually, when the idea came to me, it was so simple to execute. For the title, I intentionally chose a mushy theme so that when people see it and my husband they would automatically connect the two. Until you read the journaling, that is.

Journaling Reads: Alain may call me ‘love’, but this baby right here is his ‘sweetheart’. It’s a Kawasaki KRR SSR model 2002, 150 cc sport bike and powered by KIPS. He bought this over a year ago and he is always tickled pink whenever the topic comes around to his it. He can discuss its attributes for hours and tell you in details about his plans for its improvement. If you want to make his day, all you needed to do is mention something nice about his bike. He has no intention whatsoever to sell his baby but it gives him joy whenever somebody comes forward to bid him for it. He keeps it spotless and shiny at all times and he feels antsy whenever he sees a speck of dirt on it, which I guess is why he never rides it if there’s any hint of a drizzle. His main highlight for the week is to clean his baby. For him, it’s not enough to just wipe it dry. He takes out a blower to dry it thoroughly. It’s a good thing we have a covered garage, or I’m sure he’ll be dragging it inside our living room. And I dare not ask, but I bet he even has a pet name for it. I can only smile when I see him with his bike. I feel it’s a good thing that Alain has something to inspire and keep him entertained. And I have to admit, nothing makes him happier and contented than to dote on his sweetheart.

Materials Used: White Bazzill CS; Rouge de Garance Cupidon PPS; CorelDRAW Graphic Suites X3; Adobe Photoshop CS2.
Fonts Used: Scriptina and Arial (title); Rockwell (Journaling).

The Process: I used the magic wand tool in Photoshop to mask segments of the picture I want to retain colored, then inversed the selection and converted the rest of the picture in black and white. I attained this by adjusting the hue and saturation to zero. Then I used CorelDRAW to crop and size the pictures before printing them out. I also used Corel to reverse print the title and journaling in white Bazzil CS. Since my printer can only accommodate a maximum size of 8” width paper, I had to cut the Bazzil CS to 6” and printed the journaling on one panel and the title on the other one. The next problem was putting the two back together without making the joint obvious. To detract attention from the joint and draw it towards the picture, I matted the photos in white CS. When placed on top of the black background, the matted photo gave a dramatic impact that you’ll hardly notice the line cutting across on top of the LO. As for the joint on the middle part, I camouflaged it behind the 4x6 picture and small matted photo. When I stepped back to view the end result, I found it too stark and masculine. I thought I needed something to soften it up a little and balance the flourish of the Scriptina font. I achieved this by cutting a ½” strip of Rouge de Garance pps and using it as a finishing touch above the journaling. Inasmuch as I am tempted to put in more embellishment, I have to draw myself back and leave it as it is. By the way, I am not in the least techno savvy, I have my bestfriend Au to thank for teaching me the ropes on Corel and Photoshop.

The Difficult Process

2007-06-03T19:42:00.000-07:00

Thank you Lee, Christine, Ella and Jenn for your heart-warming comments. Lee was actually looking for the process of my last LO. I tried holding it back so as not to let anyone know how clumsy I am when it comes to scrapping. But since you liked it, you gave me enough courage to spill the beans, so to speak.

First of all, it is no secret that I am a confessed scrap lifter. I got the inspiration of my last LO from an article of Renae Clark in Memory Makers’ magazine February 2007 issue. What everyone doesn’t know though is that I’m notoriously stingy when it comes to my scrapbook materials. Just to show you how far gone I am about this quirky habit, look at the back of my LO (see left). I know, I’m just making life difficult for myself but I do find thrills in saving up scraps for my next project. They do call this hobby ‘scrap’ booking, right?

Moving on to my confession: After cutting out and setting aside all the sections which are supposedly covered by the other pps, I get over-zealous to re-assemble the pieces back together. Which leads me to a recurring pitfall: Due to my eagerness, I usually forget to distress or ink the edges of the pps. By the time I realize it, the pieces are permanently stuck together. Being used to this dilemma, I quickly go into what I call my let’s-see-you-get-yourself-out-of-this-mess mode.

My usual solution for this blunder is to tape the sides of the cs I wish to protect from the ink. But before sticking the magic tape to the cs, I run it through my clothes several times so as to make it less tacky. Since I cannot swipe the stamp pad, I use a dabbing motion to slowly ink the side of the pps. Using the pointed tip of the Petal Point Colorbox stamp pad, I do a finishing swipe on the outermost edges to make it darker. I then remove the tape and do a little dance of joy for yet another successful recovery.

Now for this particular LO, no sooner had I taken myself out of a sticky situation, I quickly jumped in to another one. I had this bright idea to use the reverse side of the Scrapbook Walls plaid pps as a matt for my photo. So I went and cut the matt from my LO ‘horizontally’. Only to realize later that when I re-attach the matted photo ‘vertically’, there would be a 1-1/2” gap on the side. (Doh!)

It’s a good thing I remembered that I have some mulberry paper. It was a gift from my sister over 5 years ago when I initially started scrap booking. I never got the nerve to use it till now so I was amazed at how easy it was to use. All I did was cut it to size, wet the edges and pinched off the wet section, leaving a softly, frayed edges.

I then move on to attach my big prima flower. While adjusting the ribbon, I was again struck with a bright idea: Why not cut off two petals on each side of the flower? This way, the ribbon can lay flat on the paper. Without thinking much about it, I snipped off the petals. (Double-Doh!) The ribbon did lay flat but the flower looked really odd. It’s a good thing I was able to re-attach the petals and simply hid my mistake behind a chipboard tag.

Now, mind you, not all of my boo-boos are entirely my fault. Sometimes it was purely bad luck. As is the case with the rub-ons unintentionally sticking smack, right center on the glued photograph. I tried using magic tape to pick up the renegade rub-on but I only ended up pushing it in and ruining my glossy picture (Oh, man!).

I eventually decided to reprint my photograph. By now, Murphy’s Law was going on overtime: I somehow cropped the picture 1/4 of an inch smaller than the original one, so I cannot overlap it onto the ruined photo (Aarrrgh). Good thing I had a spark of inspiration from CH Herrin. I tilted the photo and made it seem like I intentionally planned all along to super-impose the 2 identical pictures (Whew! Thanks CH).

Tired yet rejuvenated by the sight of a finished LO, I reflected on what I went through. On hind-sight, I believe it is a good thing I made all these mistakes because, one, I got to discover new techniques for distressing (not just myself but the paper, as well). Two, I was forced to use my mulberry paper. Three, I got creative in order to hide all my mistakes – and best of all, my LO looked better than I initially intended it to be. Now, isn’t that a happy ending?

First Love

2007-05-28T23:49:00.000-07:00

My eldest brother, Henry, is the father of two full-grown young ladies. He has always been very affectionate of his daughters and they both think he is the best father in the world.

When Sam came to our family, he instinctively formed a special bond with my daughter. I often see them playing together and he never gets tired of her childish antics. In fact, his main highlight of the day is to tell me an anecdote about my own daughter, which is so heart-warming.

I thought of creating this LO to celebrate their special bond and to show him how much I appreciate his sincere affection for my daughter.

Journaling Reads: If you ask me: Mama, who is my first love? Then I would have to say: It is your Aku’ (you sweetly pronounce it as A-du’). He comes by several times daily just to see you and you are always delighted to see him. He plays with you and introduces you to a lot of new things like the bubbles, plastic balloon, his cellular phone and other fun stuff. You are always digging into his shirt pocket and he always allows you to crumple every piece of note you find in it. You are both enamored with each other and you never seem to get tired of his company. He thinks you are the smartest baby in the world and you think the world of him. His affection for you is immeasurable and I do believe you love him the same.

Materials Used: BG Blush Milk Chocolate cs; Scrapbook Walls Olive Den Plaid pps; Kaleidoscope pps; White vellum w/ gold flecks; Prima flowers; Brenda Walton chipboards; Mulberry paper.

Others: Simply Scrappy Deckler; BG Phoebe alphabet stickers; Mini-brads; Ribbons; Brass Buckle.

Play

2007-05-20T21:17:00.000-07:00

Whew! Don't you notice how the days pass so quickly when you are busy? Before you know it, another week is over. In fact, I almost didn’t make it to my quota of 1 LO this week. It’s a good thing I had some quiet time last night and got to finish this in one sitting. This LO was done pretty quick (by my standard, that is) because I already got inspirations from Au’s tilted LO using BG Scarlett Letter. What motivated me further was Lee’s Mother’s Day LO. And oh, the inspiration for the three picture layout was also scraplifted from Valerie Salmon's tilted LO which I saw in the slide show of her gotscketch blog.

This may seem like simple but I really got to enjoy this one because like the title suggested, I got to play with it as I went along. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Joann for her great tip on using Foamies. It really did add dimension and interest to what might have been a flat layout. Thank you ladies for your inspirations.

Techniques Used: Distressing and paper cutting.

Materials: American Craft Bookshelf pps; polka-dot pps; Scrapbook Walls Poolhouse stripe pps; Brenda Walton chipboards; Teri Martin Swoosh Lower Case sticker; MM Mixed Font foam stamps; 2mm thk Daris Foamies.

Others: White and violet acrylic paint; EK Success Tag Types; Ribbon.

The Process: While laying out the pictures on the polka dot pps, I noticed that I may need to matt them in white cs to emphasize the photos and echo the white in the floral and polka dot pps. However, I was feeling stingy about using a big portion of the cs just to show a thin matting on all sides. So instead, I decided to distress the pictures with white acrylic paint to simulate the matting, which worked pretty well.

I then superimposed the Bookshelf and Poolhouse stripes pps and simultaneously cut the two in a slant. Why did I opt to cut the stripes in a slant? Because if I only cut a strip of the Poolhouse stripes pps, the 12” length will not be sufficient to reach both ends of the base paper when placed in a diagonal position.

After adhering all three pps, I cut-out several flowers in various sizes and colors from the Bookshelf pps. When I laid them on the paper, I noticed that they looked flat and uninteresting. So I decided to cut some Daris foamies and stick them behind the cut-out flowers to give them height and dimension. Next, I did the same thing with the ampersand which I drew free-hand from the back of the stripe pps and later cut-out.

If you happen to think that the cut-out flowers were all randomly placed on the page, you are mistaken. The group of small flowers on the middle of the page is strategically placed there to cover up an unwanted background in the lower left-hand picture. I decided to cover them up because not only are the plastic garbage bin on the background unsightly, they are also distracting the attention from the pictures.

I used violet acrylic paint on the MM Mixed Font foam stamps and slightly super-imposed it onto the main picture and base pps. Next, I individually glued the Brenda Walton chipboards and attached the cut flowers on the page. To create visual balance between the multiple floral pps on the left-hand side of the page, I placed the title, word journaling, and the biggest and darkest colored flower on the right-hand side of the LO.

As a final touch, I placed a jump ring on the circular tag, stamped it with the date and thread a ribbon on the ring before attaching on the lower left-hand side of the page.

So Radiant

2007-05-16T19:33:00.000-07:00

Here is one LO I did over the weekend. It is scraplifted from BG’s April issue of Basic Inspiration by Melisa Goh.

Journaling Reads:
This has to be my most favorite pictures of us to date. You look so happy, you glow – and I could not help but bask in your radiance. I love you so much, Sam. I hope you’ll always remember that.

Materials Used: Blush charmed cs; Blush Boyfriend and Tease pps; Bazzill cs; 7 Gypsies pps; Prima flowers; Color Box Ink; Roundabout font; Sizzix Sidekick machine; Black Artline Acid-free pen
Others: Ribbon; Cotton Lace; Buttons and Charms

Process: Inked edges of Blush Boyfriend and Tease pps with dark brown ink before adhering to Charmed cs. Placed cotton lace on top of pps and cs before adhering white Bazzill cs as mat. Laced black ribbon through cotton lace then over the white cs and tied a knot over the cotton lace. Adhered photos on the white cs and the prima flowers on the pps. Added the journaling on 7 Gypsies pps, and the buttons and charm as a final touch.

My Obsession

2007-05-12T04:19:00.000-07:00

Below is my entry for the PS Blog’s very first challenge. Just in case any of you scrapbook magazine subscribers are wondering why this LO looks familiar, that’s because it is a scraplift of the table of contents of Creating Keepsakes magazine (see left).

As for the photo collage, I got the inspiration from a wall display of Banco de Oro’s West Avenue Branch. When I saw it at the back of the New Accounts section, I was struck with the ingenuity of the photographer and decided: hey, this would be a good idea for an LO. So here you have it :D

Journaling Reads:

Call me quirky, but whenever I hear the words compartments, organizers and storage systems – I get goose bumps and that pleasurable tickling sensation at the pit of my stomach. Yes, I’m obsessed with containers especially the clear or opaque ones.

I would swoon over gifts of travel pouches and keep myself entertained for hours shopping in the plastic house ware departments. I also take pride in using ordinary kitchen or hardware storage systems in unconventional ways – I fondly call it ‘thinking outside the box’ (pun intended).

I would buy stuff with the premise: I’m sure I’d be able to find a use for it later. Needless to say, I have an assortment of containers in my cabinet waiting for the perfect use for it in the future. It’s a compulsion I couldn’t resist. Perhaps there is truth after all to my best friend’s theory that the reason I love to scrapbook in the first place is because I get to organize the materials in neat pile of boxes.

Another motivating factor for me to hoard containers is that I’m an incurable pack rat. The cheaper and queerer an item is, especially if it looks romantically old – it will be in my basket faster than you can say “garbage”. With my wide variety of knick knacks, it is but understandable that I have to own an assortment of organizers and storage materials. So you see, it is not just merely an obsession, it is clearly a necessity.

Materials used: Bazzill & Canson cardstock ; Scrapbook Walls Butter Dots and Sky & Spruce Stripes ; Elmer’s Craft Bond glue ; Carla Craft corner rounder ; Coluzzle craft knife, cutting pad and circle template.

The Process: One at a time, cut 4 different pieces of 4”x5” photo into 1”x1” and re-assemble immediately before moving on to the next picture. After all photos are cut, put together into a collage of photo mosaic. Using a ribbed white Bazzill cardstock as a base, I took advantage of the vertical ribbing of the cardstock as a guide in aligning the 1”x1” photo. Additionally, I used Elmer’s Craft Bond to adhere the photo mosaic on the cardstock. Since it is a slow drying glue, I was able to move the picture around a bit while eye-balling the alignment. Next, reverse-print the title and date in plain white Bazzill cardstock and cut to size. Using the actual glued photo mosaic, I penciled the desired height for the different colored cs & pps components. Before gluing them to the ribbed cs, I used Carla Craft corner rounder for the four edges. Finally, using the Coluzzle circle template, I cut a 2” dia. circle on a 5th photo and glued it on top of the date and journaling cs as a finishing touch.

Dog Day Afternoon

2007-05-04T17:48:00.000-07:00

As Au once said, if I were a dog, I’d be a Golden Retriever. Hey, I am a sociable person. I am the sort who talks to a total stranger in an elevator if there’s a lull of silence. I would chat with taxi drivers, the next person on a grocery check-out counter and I couldn’t even resist saying good evening to passers by in our subdivision whenever I was out smoking a stick. Sometimes, my husband would tell me, “you don’t have to say good evening to everybody… it’s not like you’re running for barangay councilor”. But it’s an irresistible urge, like wagging my tail.

Anyway, the other day I was in the area of West Avenue on an errand. On the way back, I decided to drop by the National Bookstore at Quezon Avenue for some scrap necessities (all our purchases are necessary, right ladies?). Anyway, while I was on the payment line, I noticed two women in their late 20’s ahead of me animatedly chatting away. As the second woman placed her purchase on the counter, I noticed she was paying for an embossing powder and an acrylic block. As expected, I got all bouncy and excited. I thought: hey, scrappers – I can probably invite them in Pinoyscrapbookers. So I eagerly waited for a break in their conversation and gave my best opening line: “I see you’re scrappers” with a matching wide grin. The woman turned to me and gave me a blank look which would stop a puppy on its track. Can you imagine me with my tail abruptly freezing mid-wag and the ball dropping from my jaw? To ease my embarrassment and in a futile attempt to make myself look less of a creep, I raised my right hand with all the scrap materials as if to say: "I’m a scrapper too, see". She then turned right back to face her companion and continued with their conversation. On the way back to the car, I couldn’t help rationalizing to myself: that’s okey Nita, they’re probably not scrappers to begin with – and they sure aren’t pet-lovers either.

I called up my best friend as soon as I got back to the office and we got to laugh about it which at least brought the wag back on my tail. Ah well, I guess that’s just one of the perils of butt sniffing in a dog’s life.

Reluctant Blogger

2007-05-02T21:22:00.000-07:00

My bestfriend Aurie had always been encouraging me to get a blogger account but I always fended her off with excuses, such as, "I have nothing to say", "what will I put in it?" and "I'm too busy". But lately, she has invited me to be in the core team of the Pinoyscrapbookers blog spot. She said that it's "necessary" for me to get a blogger's account. Which makes me think sometimes, "did she finally find the perfect excuse to get me into this?" Well, I'm here. So I might as well make the best out of it. Now, I'm fairly new in this blogging thingy, and knowing my personality, it'll take me a long while before I get used to it. You see, I'm the sort of person who likes keeping to myself and never liked being put on the fore-front to be criticized, you know? Oh heck, let's call a spade, a spade: I have very low self-esteem. There - it's out in the open. Oh, I'm quite competitive alright but it's usually work-related. They call me The Dragon Lady behind my back, would you believe? Though I don't think it's meant to be a compliment. LOL. But when it comes to my personal life, I'd rather stay in my comfort zone, thank-you-very-much. In fact, that's exactly why I love having Aurie as my bestfriend. She takes all the risks and does all the crazy stuff, giving anybody who dares come between her that devil-may-care attitude. I just love it! Because of her, I get to tag along with the wild ride. I get to do things I'm too afraid to even imagine. I get to be care-free and I'm loving it. Which brings us back to this blog thingy - Now knowing it's Aurie who pushed me into this and given her track record with me... there's a very big chance that I might just start liking this.