Teflon Bone Folder

Reported by: Lexi Daly

One of my very first tools in the early days of stamping and card making was a bone folder. I used it a lot right from the beginning--to score and press down my folds, to burnish the back of my chalked designs, or to help better stick my layers onto my cards. I continue to use one pretty much every day. But while that first bone folder worked just fine, I was so excited to find out about the Teflon Bone Folder by Akkra. It was a classic case of not knowing how much better it could be. Here is what Akkra has to say about their tool:

The bone folder is used by book binders, graphic artists and crafts people for creasing, burnishing and gluing materials together. It is also highly useful in medical, biomedical, pharmaceutical, chemical, and manufacturing fields. It is excellent for removing molded parts from molds without damaging their nonstick coating.

Key Benefits

• Size: 5 1/4" x 5/8" x 1/4"
• Non-stick due to PTFE composition.
• Heat Resistant up to 600 º F
• Chemically Inert, non-corrosive, and non-contaminating.
• Strong
• Reusable
• Working with our customers we have updated the shape of this tool. We have made it more ergonomically correct by rounding the chiseled end. This makes for a better hand grip.

I think the biggest benefit to card makers is the non-stick properties, which basically means that it doesn't leave a shiny mark when rubbed over your work. The perfectionist in me hated that shiny mark. It was random and didn't seem to happen every use, but it was annoying and I love not having to deal with that at all now. Another plus is that adhesives, inks and paints won't stick to it, which is great if you're burnishing stickers from your Xyron machine--or if your desk is as messy as mine!

Here's a side by side comparison to my old bone folder. Notice the green ink stain on the original, while the new Teflon Folder is as good as new! I also like that it's smaller and thicker and I use the flat chisel end a lot. I could not get a good picture of the shine that the original bone folder leaves behind, so you'll have to take my word for it, but it did happen on the first swipe.


The Teflon Bone Folder retails for $15.00, which might make some crafters think twice about it. But, for a tool that I've used every day for more than a year now, I feel like I've gotten my money's worth! In addition to pressing my creases and layers and burnishing Xyron stickers before peeling off the backing, the bone folder is also great for applying those rub-ons I've been collecting.

If you need one of these simple, but handy tools, you can find it online at Paper Source or Ellen Hutson. And if you're using one already, we'd love to hear what else you wouldn't want to do without it!

CARDS :: The hottest trends in card making

Reported by Lexi Daly

Hi, my name is Lexi and I'm addicted to magazines. And, boy, do they pile up! I like to read it all--articles, tutorials, crafty spaces, etc.--but my very favorite part of any magazine is the eye candy. One of my current faves for fabulous eye candy is CARDS, a sister publication to Scrapbook Trends, Paper Trends, and Bead Trends. It is like a magazine in that it is published monthly, but it is also like a book in quality and price (more about that later). Unlike other magazines, it is presented in a fun 8.5 inch square format. According to editor Alisha Gordon, "CARDS is the hottest idea book series available and is sure to become your #1 resource for card inspiration. Each issue is loaded with over 150 cards for all occasions, and every card includes step-by-step instructions along with a detailed list of the products used so you can recreate any of the cards in a snap. With 194 pages, you are sure to find the inspiration you are looking for to create your own beautiful cards. Included are also the latest tips and techniques so you have everything you need to make your experience the best ever. Card making is both timeless and trendy, so this book is a resource you will turn to time and time again."


Each issue is built around a set of themes for that month. For example, the April issue focuses on Weddings & Brides, Stitching, Friends, Easter, Birthday, Boys, Metal and Rub-ons. Some of the themes are based on seasonal card giving. But others, like Babies and Birthdays, repeat often. That way, you are never very far from seasonal or current inspiration specifically geared to those and other year-round card giving events. I especially like the product-centered themes, like rub-ons this month. I've been interested in trying them out more, so this section was particularly useful to me.


There are also a few featured columns each month--Things We Love, Stamping Basics, and the Ultimate Card Class. Here's a quick run-down of each one:

• Things We Love is a quick spotlight on something new and exciting in card making--this month's featured products are from Around the Block, the Phrase Maker and a Flocking and Glitter Kit. Who doesn't love to find out about new products to collect?
• Stamping Basics, like the title states, is about the basics. This month it all about wood stamps--stamp assembly, inking, markers & masking, and background stamps. A few months ago, it focused on various ink pads. Although more basic than what I look for in articles, this kind of information is important to the new stamper and is nice to have in the midst of such inspiring work. I remember when I first started stamping and so often, the recipes provided in some magazines just didn't go into detail and the basics were not at my fingertips.
• The Ultimate Card Class features two designers' unique approaches to creating with the same set of supplies. I really enjoy seeing different creative takes with the same products, plus it's another enabling opportunity. This month, Tinkering Ink's Botanical Bliss and Haberdasher collections take center stage.
  

While I enjoy the feature articles, the main reason I keep coming back to CARDS is the cards themselves. Each one is beautifully executed and photographed, one per page, with a detailed list of supplies and directions included right below or next to it. And as I flip through the pages, I see the names of many designers I've come to "know" in blog-land, as well as some who are new to me. There's even an index of designers in the back that includes online id's, so it's easy to find more of their work in galleries. This is definitely a magazine for someone who loves eye candy! I'm particularly excited about the April issue because, for the first time, my very own card is showcased on page 35 (sorry--shameless plug!).


So I promised to come back to the price--in my opinion it's the one negative. At $19.95 per issue, CARDS is not cheap. If you subscribe, you do save over 50%, which is a much better deal. However, despite the fact that I am a magazine addict, I'm not a subscriber. I tend to binge read, picking up one magazine here, another one there. So, the solution for me is to keep submitting--and earning--my copy whenever possible. And if my cards don't get picked up, I can pick up my own copy based on the themes of the month. Or get a healthy dose of eye candy while waiting in the long line at Michael's!

So let us know what you think of Cards? Do you enjoy the eye candy, or has the price always been a factor in your decision? Leave your comments!

Sweet Seconds ~ Cake Q & A...

Reported by Lexi Daly

Thank you for the comments yesterday! It seems that many of you enjoyed reading about something other than paper and since there were a few questions, I thought I'd do a quick follow up post rather than leave too long of a comment. If there are more questions, I will continue to answer them here.

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Q: Very cool this cake leveler is! Must find one for me - but have you ever done the 2 toothpicks and thread? Please tell me that I can throw my toothpick and thread away!

A: I've never done the toothpicks and thread thing. And though they might be cheaper and always around, the cake leveler is well worth its $3.00! I bought mine at Michael's, but the links I added yesterday all go directly to the same products in the Wilton Online Store.

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Q: Do you use box cakes or make your own like the type Grandma used to make?

A: Betty Crocker was probably someone's Grandma, right?! I started making cakes for my kids' birthdays and they love basic yellow and I've always been happy with Betty Crocker Butter Recipe Yellow. Adding the home made buttercream icing (see below) to a perfectly baked Butter Betty makes the whole thing taste like home made--at least that's what everyone says and they keep coming back for more. So if it ain't broke...

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Q: When you chill the cake - I take it you cut it up - than chill it - not cut it up after it is iced between the layers?

A: I typically bake the cakes the night before I need them. After they cool, I wrap them in Saran Wrap and put them in the fridge in their original shape. Then, the next day, I cut them. I find that the cutting is easier when the cake is cold and you get less crumbs. I stack them if I'm doing a two-layer design, but not with icing yet. I add icing between the layers only after I cut it the way I want it. I usually do a thin crumb coat at this point too, and put it back in the fridge again for it to set before I add the more decorative icing. I always have to do a little creative rearranging in there!

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Q: Buttercream yes? If so - can you share your favorite recipe?

A: Yes, buttercream! The recipe I have is very easy, but so not low-cal! It was given to me by a friend and is very similar to the one on my powdered sugar box. I honestly haven't tried any others--again, if it ain't broke...

mix:
• 2 sticks salted butter (I soften at room temperature)
• 1 t. vanilla (I use one from William Sonoma)
• 2 T. milk
sift & add a 1lb. box of confectioner's sugar.
blend until fluffy.

Seriously, how can you go wrong with so much butter and sugar! But maybe I'll have to conduct a taste test one day--I do have a couple of kids perfect for the test panel...

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Q: If you do buttercream - what is your favorite powdered chocolate to make your chocolate frosting?

A: I am usually creating brightly colored cakes, so I have yet to venture into chocolate buttercream. But I am a chocoholic, so I know I will eventually have to find an answer to this for myself!

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Q: Do you have a hand or stand mixer?

A: I have a small kitchen and a hand mixer to match! I used to have a really old hand mixer, but last year my husband bought me a Cuisinart PowerSelect 7 Speed Electronic hand mixer. It has a built in elapsed time keeper, which is very handy because I like to follow the cake box directions as closely as possible. It really does make a difference!

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Q: Yummy looking! I think you should have a cake blog too! :) Where did you find the recipe for the jello cake?

A: Thank you! I do show them on my blog whenever I make one and have them filed in the "tasty creations" and "theme parties" photo albums or under the "edible art" category if you want to see the original postings. The recipe for the jello cake was in the May/June 2007 issue of the American Girl magazine--my daughter fell in love with it, so I changed it to a square and added the cross to make it work for her first communion. You can read a little more about it and see the invitation I made to match it here!

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Remember, if you leave comments with any more cake questions, check here for the answer. And if you want me to report on something else cake-related, let me know! So how about a few more of my sweet treats...

another cut cake, created to match an invitation i made--I winged it and luckily it worked!

more fun embellishing--a sugar island for the hula girl, flowers from a lei, & fondant "raffia"

fluffy white clouds and a fondant cross--the surprise here is when you cut it open!

Cut Your Cake & Ice It Too

Reported by Lexi Daly

My typical canvas is a card; my tools, paper, ink, and stamps. And here, at Craft Critique, that's what I usually write about. But today, I thought I'd report on another favorite creative medium--cake! If you've read my blog, chances are you've seen a couple. I'm definitely not an expert and everything I know I've learned from books, magazines, and the cake supply aisles at William Sonoma and Michael's. Since my cake baking is all about decorating and creating a centerpiece, I thought I'd share a few of my favorite tools for doing just that.


1. Cake Leveler--Once I got this, I couldn't believe I'd gone so long without it! It makes it so easy to cut the rounded top off of the cake for perfectly flat layers. When your layers are flat, they stack nicely and you have an even surface for decorating. I used to use a knife, but this is so much smoother and more perfect. It's also very easy to change the height of the wire for different sizes of layers. A must-have at $2.99--and the family loves the scraps that result from the cutting!

2. Bread Knife--I like to create shape cakes and most of the ones I create come to life by cutting up basic shapes and piecing them together to make something new. I've found that chilling the cake overnight and cutting it with a bread knife gives the cleanest cuts. (Again, more scraps to enjoy!)

3. Angled Spatulas--These spatulas are made especially for icing cakes. You definitely get better control with them and they're comfortable to use. I use the biggest one the most, especially for large open surfaces. The smaller one comes in handy for the sides and inside corners. If I could only have one, I'd take the 13 inch one for $6.49.

4. Icing Colors--I collect Wilton concentrated gel icing colors like I collect ink pads! There are so many colors to choose from and you can even mix up those to create your own custom shades. Just a little bit of gel produces a nice, strong color without watering down your icing. There are several sets available or you can get individual colors for $1.99 each. I even use them for pancakes!

5. Decorating Tips--If you're going to add details to your design, you'll need to use icing bags and decorating tips. I've included my favorites in the picture--round no. 4, open star no. 18, and basketweave no. 47. The tips range in price from $.89 to $2.69 or you can buy a set (at Michael's with a coupon, like I did!). The large one pictured is actually for icing cupcakes and I love it, especially when I want quick and cute.

These tools are not comprehensive, just those special favorites that I typically use every time I create a cake. I have the basics for baking--mixer, sifter, spoons, spatulas, the list goes on! I also use fondant details on many cakes so I have tools for that, too (another article?). Like any crafting hobby, there's much to buy and you can add it piece by piece as you try new things. It's a lot of fun--especially when you get to eat the results for dessert! If you want to see one of my cakes from start to finish, check out my blog post on How to Bake a Margarita. And of course, I can't leave you without showing you a few sweet treats right here...

a cut cake of my own design

fondant icing details & incorporating paper!

more fondant details, icing hair and a real towel!

the large cupcake icing tip in action--perfect grass for fondant ladybugs!

Remember, I'm not an expert. But if there is anything cake-related you'd like me to explore and report, leave a comment here. And if you have any tips, I'd love to hear them, too!

Need a Buddy?

Reported by Lexi Daly

We've had a few requests for a review on the Paper Trimming Buddy by Marvy Uchida. I won it in a blog give-away a while back and I feel like I've finally played with it enough to let you know what I think. First, let me start with the descriptions and specs as written by Marvy Uchida. It is listed on their website for $29.99, with additional blades for $5.99 each and here's what they have to say:

The Ultimate Safety Trimming Equipment. It's easy to use and has 8 decorative blade styles. The Paper Trimming Buddy comes with 1 straight blade, 1 complimentary free-style handle and the Paper Trimming Buddy unit. All blades are sold separately.

• No exposed blade while handling.
• Patented Interchangeable finger guard safety system.
• Trims up to 10 sheets of 20 lb. print paper or 5 sheets of card stock. Also trims construction, mulberry and other specialty papers.
• 12 inch cut length
• Light weight and portable
• Swing out ruler for easy, measuring
• Replacement mat for the RPT900 are available.
• Cutting blade styles: straight, wave, scoring, scallop, pinking, victorian, perforating and rhythm.

The Paper Trimming Buddy is a very durable trimmer and includes a swing arm for flexibility and portability. In addition to the swing arm that extends the ruler measurements, the face of the trimmer includes a lined section divided into 1/8 inch increments and a 1/2 inch grid section, both of which are helpful for lining up the paper. The ruler measurements are also repeated at the bottom of the cutting section. The "tracking guide bar" lifts completely up, hinged at the top. The blade "casettes" pop in and out of the "tracking guide knob" in order to change the cutting style. Overall, Marvy Uchida has included some very helpful features.

I tested the Paper Trimming Buddy against the specs listed by the company and I found that I could in fact cut multiple sheets of card stock and paper, with both the straight and scallop blades. This is a definite plus, especially for the scallop blade--my other trimmer that has interchangeable blades only cuts through one piece of card stock at a time with the decorative blades. On the negative side, the arm opens somewhere around 5.5 inches, so it is not marked--frustrating for a card maker. While you can figure it out, I would prefer to have that line clearly marked since it is one I use often. Also not all of my cuts were straight, even though I thought they were lined up properly. The more firmly downward I pushed, the straighter the cuts seemed to be, so this could be remedied at least a little with practice and proper use. For smaller pieces, I lined up my papers very carefully with the grid--which I have to do with my other trimmers as well. Another positive is that the trimmer is very safe, with the blade nicely tucked away. This also impacts the storage and changing of the blades. Rather than loose blades, they are presented in "casettes" as shown here. In my opinion, this is one of the coolest things about the Paper Trimming Buddy.

Each casette is labeled with name and picture and has it's own color, and the blade is completely contained while not in use. The picture shows each casette with a strip of coordinating card stock cut with the blade. It is very easy to change from one blade to the next while working, without worrying about cutting yourself. The casette snaps into the blade cover, which then snaps into the tracking guide knob. With a quarter turn it is then locked into place, the blade pushed out and ready to cut. The casettes also work with the same blade cover on the free-style handle that comes with the trimmer, so you can make curved cuts, too.

It's a very easy system. As I mentioned earlier, I do have another paper trimmer that has interchangeable, decorative blades, but it is not nearly as user-friendly. The blades are completely exposed and it is also not portable. For this reason, I tend to reach for this one when I want decorative edges that are more difficult to do by hand. However, as the owner of a lot of trimmers, I have to say that the Paper Trimming Buddy is not my go-to trimmer for every job. For these cards, I did use it for every cut, straight and decorative, with nice results...

So, would I have purchased it if I hadn't won it? Possibly. I wish my cuts were consistently straight and I would love a deeper, more rounded scallop. But overall, I think it really is a cool tool and I do reach for it quite a bit!

edited to add: NanaBeth asked, "What is your go to?" I have two other "go to" trimmers, both by Fiskars--the 12 inch purple portable trimmer (next to my desk) and the 12 inch home/office rotary trimmer (on a work counter, for bigger jobs). In all honesty, I go to them most simply because I've been using them the longest. There are many times that I wish I had better, but I just haven't yet felt it necessary to invest the time and money into making a change. I do like how the paper trimming buddy fits into my set up and keep it at the ready with the scallop casette, my current favorite blade.

Sizing up the Sizzix BIGkick

Reported by Lexi Daly

Although I am mainly a simple stamper, I have come to realize that I'm also a tool junkie! I'm such a sucker for the "enabling" posts and articles here and there about this tool or that, accompanied by beautiful samples and details of what it can do for you. (That's how I ended up here!) I may not always buy it the day it comes out or even the same month, but eventually I do.

So that's exactly what happened when the original Sizzix (featured in Heidi's recent article) was introduced. I immediately started collecting dies--shapes, frames, and tags at first, and then the dolls and their clothes, both sizes! Not only did I use it on cards and invitations, but with two daughters, it quickly became a fun art activity that we'd spend hours doing together. It's such a great way to play paper dolls!

By the time die cutting machines decided to change to the rolling style we see now, I had a large collection of original Sizzix dies, plus quite a few Sizzlits, the skinny dies. Again, I watched and waited, read a few enabling posts and by the time I decided to "roll the die," Sizzix came out with the BIGkick. The Cuttlebug looked cute and the Big Shot was also by Ellison, but for me, it really all came down to brand loyalty and adding to my "Sizzix" collection. The few other criteria were really less important, but here they are. I had enough room on my counter and I liked that the BIGkick doesn't have fold down parts and is quite heavy. Since my kids use it too, I thought having less moving parts would be less for them to break. Plus I really liked the white and red color scheme.

Not having used the other options, I really can't compare the BIGkick to them specifically. But I can say that it does what all of the other machines are reported to do and works with other brand dies, too. My girls and I use it for our paper doll fun and I continue to use it with my original die collection. I have continued to add Sizzix dies and Texturz plates to my collection, as well as several Cuttlebug dies and embossing folders and most recently, Spellbinders Nestabilities. No matter what die cutting machine you choose, you just have to choose one--it really is a must-have tool!

Cutting Up With Coluzzle

Reported by Lexi Daly

According to the Provo Craft website, "Coluzzle is the original template cutting system. The patented templates, cutting mat, swivel knife, and scoring tool let any crafter cut precise shapes and designs quickly and accurately. Boxes, tags, alphabets, geometric shapes, frames, borders and themed kits are just a few of the design options..." A perfect description for a great tool.

Although I only have the circle and oval templates, they have a special place near my desk. I've recently added a variety of circle and oval punches and dies to my tool and toy collection, but there are still some jobs that are best created with the Coluzzle. Like the company description states, it's quick and accurate and that's why I keep it within reach! Like any product, there are things to like and not to like, and those vary by user. So here's this user's take.

What I like:

• The templates are easy to store and provide a variety of sizes.
• The swivel knife and cutting mat make the cutting go smoothly.
• With the two sizes of circle and oval templates, you have lots of layering or coordinated cutting options--useful on the life preserver card below.
• It's easy to cut only half of a shape, like for the edge of the bandit card.

Noted Issues:

• After cutting through the template, you still have to snip sections to complete the shape.
• If you're not careful, it's easy to get off track and trace the wrong size mid-project. I've read that you could mark each size with a different colored sharpie to make this work better, but I haven't had the problem enough to do that.
• If you don't hold it firmly, it can slip, causing an inaccurate cut--practice makes perfect!

Despite the minor drawbacks, all of which can be overcome, the Coluzzle really can't be beat! I've had mine for a long time and consider it tried and true. Here are a few projects, new and old, that were made easier or better because of it...

It's All About the Presents!

Reported by Lexi Daly

Well, not really. But they are an added bonus! It's so much fun to give and receive this time of year, especially when paper crafting supplies are involved. Here are my top five wishes...

1. Scor-Pal. So many people love it and anything that makes card making and paper crafting easier is perfect for me! There are several pre-measured grooves to help score any project. Price: $39.95






2. Paper Crafts subscription. Lots of fresh new ideas at my fingertips. I pick it up all the time, so how cool would it be to get it in my mailbox automatically--a gift that keeps on giving! Price: $15.97











3. Nestabilities Dies. I've tested them out with just one set and now I need the rest! These little dies pack a huge punch and I know every stamper wants them. Price: $24.99 and up









4. Stamp & Cruise 2008. I would love to be able to post this image on my blog--and have a spot on the cruise. How much fun would it be to rub shoulders with the Nichole Heady, Gina K and Emmabella--not to mention all the other blogging stampers already sporting the logo! Just think of the creative energy floating around on that ship. Price: $100 deposit, $859 and up

5. New stamps! Yes, I have a lot of stamps, but there are always fresh, new images that I don't have. A Muse, Elzybells, Papertrey Ink, Bellas, Gina K--so many stamps, so little time! Stamps or gift certificates for stamps would be a perfect gift for any stamper! prices to fit any budget!


It really *is* all about the giving. And giving something you love makes it even more fun. Here are a few of my tried and true faves...

1. Atyou Spica Glitter Pens. Every project could use a little sparkle and these add the perfect amount--in color! Pair them with Copic markers and your coloring will be top notch. Price: $2.99 each, $32.49 for the set

2. Swarovski Flat Back Crystals. My "mini jewel" of choice. They are so very sparkly and come in a variety of sizes and colors, although clear is my personal favorite and matches everything! Price: $4.99





3. Sizzix BIGkick. I love my die cutting machine. It's sturdy, easy to use and always at the ready! (Of course, I can always use new dies to roll through--see above!) Price: $129.99










4. Ott-Lite. I am a midnight crafter, so my "lite" gets a lot of use. The more natural glow helps me pick colors that won't look totally different by day. Price: $79.95 (often on sale!)









5. A Muse 2008 calendar. Proceeds benefit scleroderma research and you can download it right to your computer and print it as many times as you want. Create one for yourself and a lot more for gifts and know that your gift is reaching someone else at the same time! Price: $3.00 donation

Ho! Ho! Ho! Merry Christmas!
:) Lexi

Free Ideas: It's a good thing!

Reported by: Lexi Daly

Christmas is a time for crafters to really shine, the perfect opportunity to showcase hip new projects and to use all that stuff we hoard--I mean, collect. As I was walking around Michael's looking for a fun Christmas kit or product to review, the Martha Stewart Crafts idea cards caught my attention and got me thinking. Did I really need to buy something new when I have a studio full of stuff? Could I follow the directions on these free cards and use up some of my stash? So I grabbed a handful and off I went!

First, let me describe the "cards." They are brochure weight, about the size of a half sheet of paper, with beautiful photos on the front and instructions on the back. They also have holes punched on them, probably to fit a binder sold with the collection, but I did not explore that. If I keep collecting them, I may have to! New ones show up with each seasonal restock and they include a shopping list of exactly what you need to complete the project, all of which can be found right there next to them on the Martha Stewart Crafts aisle. The list is great for those of you just starting out or if you want the project to look exactly like the photos. But, as I mentioned before, my goal was to see if I could create these projects with product I already owned. I should mention here that the first aisle I shop at Michael's these days is the Martha aisle, so I own quite a few Martha products, which you will see in some of my projects! But I made sure to use a variety, too. I think I was pretty successful in meeting my goal, but I'll let you be the judge...

photo frame ornaments

I did not have the metallic framed labels these ornaments were based on, so I used punches to create my own. I can't wait to make more to fill a tinsel tree we put up every year. These would also be great for photo gift tags or embellishments on a bottle of wine that can be placed on the tree after the wine is opened.

ribbon bookmarks

These were so much fun and the easiest of all the projects. I did have all of the Martha supplies for this project-- MS ribbon and the starburst circle punch, but really, any ribbon and punch is perfect, as you can also see. Most of these ribbons and all of the little pieces were scraps left on my desk. Talk about big bang for *no* buck! These will definitely be added to any books I give this year. Of course, the orange and green one with the "L" is a gift for me--and I can't wait to use it!

weaving ribbon

I loved the photo on this idea card. Again, this is all about ribbon, which I have a lot of! And my finished gift is beautiful and unique. I'm glad to have seen the idea and played with it, but it wouldn't work with the high number of gifts I wrap. Even so, it will show up on a few special gifts here and there!

paper poinsettias

I do not own the leaf stamp used to create these pretty poinsettias, so I went on a short search for a different leaf stamp. I probably have a better one buried somewhere in my stamp shelves, but my Kitchen Sink Stamps caught my eye, so I thought I'd try a modern poinsettia using a couple of "pretty petals." It's not as perfect a poinsettia as the ones in the picture, but it still makes a pretty embellishment!

sewn candy dishes

This card includes a template that you can photocopy and enlarge, but in the spirit of my article, I opted to attempt the directions with a square scallop punch. After looking at the diagram and photos, it seemed that this would work and that the scallops would make the hole placement and sewing easy. And it did. I think the actual template creates a cuter box, but this worked too. And if you have nestabilities dies, you could create slightly bigger sizes.

So, what do you think? I, for one, am thrilled. The directions were easy to follow and my projects look very similar to the pictures. And I didn't buy anything extra to create them! Next time you're in Michael's pick up a few of Martha's idea cards and use up of some of your own collection of supplies. Do it soon and you could end up with some pretty cool gifts to give for Christmas. It's a good thing. And it's free!

More From the Sink!

Reported by Lexi Daly

Another quick reminder... Don't forget to head on over to THIS POST at the Kitchen Sink News to enter a contest to win some FREE stamps! (See Monday's post for all the contest details.)

No dirty dishes here! Just fun & creativity! That's the motto for Kitchen Sink Stamps and it's so true. I chose to have fun and create with Playful Alphabet and Pretty Petals. The fun patterns on both the letters and the petals immediately caught my eye. I've used clear stamps for a while now and these were a great addition to my growing collection. As the other reviewers have mentioned, Kitchen Sink Stamps are made of a high quality, long-life photo-polymer and the stamps are deeply etched and stick very well to the acrylic block. All of this adds up to a very positive clear-stamping experience. These are the kind of clear stamps you want to buy. I could continue to repeat more of what you've already read, but really it all boils down to great stamps, fun images and loads of possibilities for unique creations. As I often do when I sit down with new stamps, I try to stamp outside of the box--if I can create projects that a given set was not intended for (in addition to the obvious), then I know it's a set I'll keep coming back to. And these two passed the test...

This design practically jumped out of the packages at me and I *had* to stamp it first! The heart is from Playful Alphabet, with the flourish leaves from Pretty Petals posing as wings.


Did you know that flower petals could make such great turkey feathers and a hill to stand on?! Those patterns are just too cool!


Of course, I had to make a flower, too! With a little masking and layering, a sunflower is a breeze.


This dot reminded me of Target and I just couldn't resist--this little bag is the perfect size for a gift card!


Again, this dot just screamed peppermint and, paired with the alphabet and a little hand-lettering, a Christmas card was born!


Here's my standard "hi!" layout with a Christmas twist--these letters are perfect! Other short words, names or monograms would work well, too.


So that's what's in my sink... What's in yours?! And don't forget--you can win your very own Kitchen Sink Stamps on Maria's blog, The Kitchen Sink News. Find out how at the bottom of Sarah's post below. Good luck!

DIY Chipboard with Coasters

Reported by Lexi Daly

Chipboard elements are very popular right now and there are many different brands and shapes on the market ready to cover, embellish and use on cards and scrapbook pages. We're going to hear about many of those all week long. But, as we discuss adding chipboard to your paper craft projects, it's also important to discuss the do-it-yourself options. We have the tools for the job and we want to use them, right?!

One such option for adding "chipboard" is cutting your own from the very cool blank white coasters available in online stores and possibly your local scrap/stamp store as well. If you own a personal die cut machine, chances are you've collected a variety of dies for it and white coasters are a supply you really should keep on hand. The coasters come in three different thicknesses. I personally order medium which works beautifully with my Sizzix bigKick, but i've read that the light weight is better for some die cutting machines. I purchased mine in a pack of ten for just under a dollar. When it comes to using them for DIY chipboard, there are several benefits.

1. You can cut specific shapes as needed and in whatever quantities you want.

2. You can cover them with decorative paper before you cut, eliminating the need for sanding the edges--unless you want the distressed look!

3. They are white, which make them easy to decorate "naked" with just stamps and/or paint.

Here are finished projects with a couple of the DIY chipboard elements i created above...

(i'm sorry for the blurry picture--i tried hard to focus on the ornament, but my camera preferred the tree!)

The coasters can also be used in their natural square shape for the cover of a book or mini album.

So, go buy some and let us know what you create... the possibilities are endless and the choices are yours!

ETA: I purchased my white coasters online at eclectic Paperie. Mine are medium weight and they also have light weight and heavy weight--each link will take you directly to the product!

Trick or Treat! Spooky Sweets!

Reported by Lexi Daly

I'm sure most of you know the hype that follows every Papertrey Ink release and many may already own Spooky Sweets from the August release. If not, read on for reasons why you should. If so, read on for some inspiration. Because, this week, as we focus on some of the hottest Halloween products on the market, Spooky Sweets must be discussed! Papertrey Ink stamps are sets of high quality clear acrylic stamps with coordinating images--I would also say that innovation is one of artist Nichole Heady's signature trademarks.

Of course Spooky Sweets is no exception. The main "innovative" feature in the set is the label stamp, created specifically to stamp on Avery address labels for covering Hershey's Nuggets. For someone like me, who loves to personalize those cute little nuggets for all occasions, this is a must have stamp! In addition, there are several little stamps that you can stamp on top of that so that they end up on top of the candy. I often randomly stamp various images all over a sheet of labels, and I still like that look, but the label stamp adds variety and dimension to what I was already doing. Everyone eats these up!


Before I get to the rest of the projects I've created, I want to point out a couple of other Spooky Sweets innovations:

• Over sized jack-o-lantern face pieces--stamp on an orange card or bag for an instant jack-o-lantern! Nichole used them on paper inserted into a clear paint can.
• For the "spooky" stamp, there are two sentiment finishers--sweets and treats--and they fit perfectly between the "p" and the "y" on spooky.
• There are two different flying bats and two different sized spiders for variety.
• The pumpkin can be a pumpkin or, with the small face added, a jack-o-lantern and the stem is a seperate stamp, so you can easily have the right colored stem and vine swirls.
• Two of the stamps (one with a reverse sentiment, one with a reverse design) are the perfect size and shape to be punched with the yellow Marvy Scallop oval punch.
• Finally, as with all clear stamps, perfect placement is a breeze.

I also want to mention that if Halloween is not your thing, Papertrey Ink just released another treat set, Holiday Treats, with three more label stamps and some really cool coordinating images and it's just as cute. I'm sure they will show up on my blog in the near future!

Now, on to a few not candy examples...

On this last one, you might notice that the label doesn't *have* to be a label!

Click here to see more "labeled" halloween candy with a matching treat bag and here to see the label used with another set to create candy for a completely different occasion. Papertrey Ink also has the Inkpad Gallery with many more awesome ideas. And if you've created something of your own with Spooky Sweets, please be sure to leave a comment here with a link for us all to see!

Lexi's Favorite Tool: Get Into the Groove with BasicGrey

Reported by Lexi Daly

Pick a favorite tool? What?! That's like picking a favorite stamp or a favorite kid. Impossible! I go through phases of using no tools (well, scissors & paper cutter only!) to using tons of tools--decorative scissors, multiple paper cutters, paper piercer, crop-a-dile, Sizzix BIGkick, etc. etc.! Other than the basics, I guess you could say my favorite or most used tool at any given moment is probably my newest. So for my "favorite tool" article I decided to write about the BasicGrey Precision File Set, one of my newest tools.


The BasicGrey Precision File Set is a set of six files--round, half-round, square, knife & 2 boards. I bought mine for around $7.00 at an online paper crafting store.


I have collected many different shapes of chipboard over the last year or so as they've gotten more popular. They make great elements on cards or gifts, especially when covered with the beautiful patterned paper I've also collected. When covering the fun shapes, sanding the edges gives them a more finished look. Before this file set, I used a sanding block or nail file and was not always able to sand all corners and spaces properly. But with the variety of file shapes in this set, you can smooth the edges of any shape, including holes, inside corners and curves. The boards are like any basic emery board, which I use the most. Since there are two of those, I keep one on my desk with my basic tools and one with the set. But the small files are what make this set a must-have. Here are the two chipboard shapes I decided to cover for this article with the files I used to finish the edges...


As I've already mentioned, sanding or filing gives a finished look. After tracing and covering a shape, filing and smoothing the edges makes the paper truly match the shape. The bird itself has basic edges, so there are no issues in filing them. I used one of the boards there. But this bird has an eye. Before the file set, i might have punched the eye and not sanded or just left it covered. Enter the round file. This was the first time I used the round and I made the eye a little bigger than when it started out, but it worked fine--I just need to have a slower stroke! For the fluer de lis shape, I also used the board and round plus the half-round, which was perfect for the swirly spaces. The half-round has actually been the file I reach for the most of the small files. It's great for following curves and reaching the corners resulting from two curves, like the ones on the fleur. I finished off some of the smaller nooks with the round and finished the larger curves with the board.

Here's how I used my shapes...


I thought it was fitting to use my new Mellow 6x6 paper pad for these cards--sticking with the BasicGrey theme!

I think the label on the tube sums it up well:

TINY GROOVES AND SPACES BECOME REACHABLE WITH THIS PRECISION FILE SET.
DISTRESS CHIPBOARD, PLASTIC, PAPER, AND METAL - ALL WITH SHARPENING RESULTS.
EACH FILE FEATURES A RUBBER-COATED GRIP FOR COMFORT AND EASE-OF-USE.

Hmmm... plastic and metal, too? Even more possibilities. So I can smooth it down or rough it up--either way, I've got the right tools to get into the groove!

Hi! My Name is Lexi...

Reported by: Lexi Daly

Hi! My name is Lexi Daly and I'm a craft addict!

I live in New Orleans, Louisiana with my husband and two daughters, ages 6 and 8. Drawing, coloring and painting were always activities of choice during my childhood and over the years since, I've expressed myself creatively in a variety of other ways, too. I created scrapbooks before they were archival; I continued to draw; and I painted my fair share of t-shirts and lap boards in college, and more recently, furniture, burpee cloths and hand towels. I'm also re-learning how to sew as my kids need costumes for this or that and I love to make fun jewelry.

My main craft addiction is stamping and paper arts. My cousin introduced me to stamping about eight years ago just before the birth of my first daughter, whose birth announcement was my first stamped project. I'd already been creating stationery and invitations for friends and friends of friends, so it was a perfect new craft for me and presented so many new design possibilities. My computer has always been one my favorite tools for creating and I enjoy combining printed elements with stamped or paper crafted touches. It also follows that i dabble in digital scrapping. I can see so many possibilities there!

In addition to paper crafting, I love throwing parties and all the details that make a party perfect. Over the last 10 years, my invitation and stationery business has evolved into "Confetti: paper arts & party smarts!" Invitations and stationery are still my main focus, but i also bake and design theme cakes and cupcakes and help brainstorm ideas and create perfect party details. This led me to start my blog Confetti in order to have an online portfolio for my customers, which connected me to this wonderful world of online paper crafters. I'm so excited to be a part of Craft Critique and can't wait to share my crafting opinions and reviews!