How has it already been another month?! I can hardly believe it is May and I'll be graduating in a few short weeks. While I'm still not exactly sure how my new job will effect my crafting/blogging schedule, I will still be bringing you tons of content (even if it isn't my normal format). Today is another crafty goal report. To be quite honest, I have not been actively working on any of these goals, but I'm hoping that maybe subconsciously I did something this month. Let's jump right into it and see how things went!



Lastly, this goal is one of my favorites to talk about. Card making is a big target for me this year. I'm getting obsessed with sending/giving them and now making them! You can check out my monthly wrap up video to see which and how many cards I created this month (mainly because I am writing this before the month is completely over ;) ).

I hope you enjoyed this updated! I hope this encourages you all to stick to your goals and think about how far you've come. You've got this! Thanks for stopping by!

When attempting to do a monochromatic layout like these ones that you will see in this series, you will want to make sure your photo either follows the color scheme, is neutral, or is black and white. Black and white photos work wonderfully with monochromatic layouts, but so do other types of photos which you will discover through this series. Stay tuned for plenty more ideas and inspirational pieces for the entire rainbow!


After I made this layout I told Ariana (The Crafty Ways) to call me the Cluster Queen because I am obsessed with clustering! These clusters consist of a ton of different supplies which I mention in my video, but I'll give another run down. I really highlighted a bunch of Heidi Swapp products on this scrapbook layout including the stamped images (phrases and black rose) as well as the giant acetate word that reads "favorite".


Whenever I do clusters that don't really have a place to "rest", my go to ideas for adding in a shelf are border stickers, washi tape, or pieces of paper. However, this time I used this banner sticker from We R Memory Keepers to keep everything from having that floating feeling. In this cluster in particular I used several elements to achieve different textures. The main textures are the glitter puffy hearts, the acetate word, and the flair button.


In this cluster there are a lot of layers, many more than the last cluster. The real trick to this is adding various dimensions. I started with a doily as a base because that by itself adds a lot of frilly dimension without actually being bulky. Then, I laid a thick floral wood veneer piece on top of that. These contrasting colors and textures really help the layout pop. I slowly built on top of and underneath those.


I used various die cut pieces from Recollections and some stamped images that I cut out. I also used puffy hearts, glitter hearts and a flair piece from Project Life that add different textures. As  you can see in the above photo, even just looking at the glitter heart, the stamped image, and the wood veneer, there are a lot of visual textural differences which entertains the eye.


Lastly, I create a mini cluster beneath that using more stamped images from the Heidi Swapp set, Tim Holtz word stickers, and some splatters! I hope you enjoyed my take on this red/pink monochromatic theme! I am totally looking forward to more color theories to share with you all! Be sure to check out Ariana's video! Thanks for stopping by!

I then moved on to the centerpiece of this card. I stamped this adorable pooch with his bone on some cardstock. I then used my lovely watercolor pencils to lightly shade this puppy. I also added a shadow underneath to add more interest. I added four little gems to the corners to coordinate with his collar. I matted this piece with some black paper and then placed it on some foam to give it dimension.


Lastly, I stamped a sentiment from the same set using some black Staz-on ink. I cut this into a slim strip and then placed it at the bottom of the card. I hope you enjoyed this card! Thanks for stopping by!

To create these adorable shaker windows, I used my EK Success 1 inch punch. I punched a piece of scrap paper to use as a template. Then, I drew on the back of my foam where I wanted the circles to be. After I had them spaced evenly, I punched them out of my foam. Then, I lined up these punched holes with my patterned paper. This patterned paper is from Pebbles' Garden Party 6x6 paper pad. Once I had that punched properly, I added the acetate for the windows.


Once I had the foam glued to the base, I added in my shaker window bits. I used various sequins and the small stamped images that I colored from the set. The sequins I used are from Darice in 5 mm (I think). After they were filled the way I wanted, I sealed them up with the patterned paper window topper.


Lastly, I used a random pocket page card that was on my desk. It is a really cute wood grain pattern which is perfect my little woodland creatures. I used the sentiment that reads "get well soon" also from Create a Smile Stamps. That finishes up this fun shaker card. I hope you enjoyed this fun multi window shaker card. Thanks for stopping by!

Supplies:
*Purchasing through these links is part of an affiliate program and I will receive a small portion of the sale at no additional cost to you*
Shop through Blitsy! http://blitsy.com/ref/z3m57
Shop through Tupelo Designs LLC! http://i.refs.cc/H3vCMoVA 

Creative Hands BASIC Multi Color Foam Sheets 1510259E
from: Simon Says Stamp

Create a Smile Stamps - Doctor's Helpers

Similar: Simon Says Stamp WHITE CARDSTOCK 120 LB Base Weight 12 Pack 120WCBW
from: Simon Says Stamp

Darice 5MM CRYSTAL IRIDESCENT Sequins 10043-8
from: Simon Says Stamp

Darice 8MM RED Sequins 10044-30
from: Simon Says Stamp

Darice 5MM MULTI Sequins 10043-11
from: Simon Says Stamp

Similar: Tsukineko VersaFine ONYX BLACK Ink Pad VF-82
from: Simon Says Stamp

This layout is a stunning piece of reds and pinks not to mention all of the glitter involved. For some people, this is a lot and I understand that. I'm trying to experiment more often with color which you may or may not see in a new upcoming collab series (wink, wink). The doily stencil is a fairly straightforward concept. You use the doily ass a stencil for a spray ink or mist or whatever you have that is light weight. This technique will most certainly not work well with modeling pastes or paints. I do some more explanation and tips on how to achieve this fun textured look in my process video.


I think the hardest part of this entire layout was the clean up. If you have red or even pink stains or sprays, beware that they will make your hands look like they are covered and I mean covered in blood. After ten minutes of vigorous scrubbing you'll be okay. I mixed and matched the style of doilies that I used, but there's nothing wrong with using the same pattern all of the paper or maybe even doing just one stencil. Do what you please with your pages ladies! I am just here for inspiration purposes.


This cluster, although simple, is one of my favorites (even if it is slightly out of focus). I used some die cut hearts from Recollections and American Crafts washi tape as the main components. I topped those with a Simple Stories phrase sticker and a Heidi Swapp gold glitter heart sticker. I thought that since there were three of us that three hearts would be cute too.


This title is a really fun and really glittery piece on the layout. I really wish I could've gone with "bowling babes" instead, but this is still cute. Plus, I got to use more of these really hard to use for me Heidi Swapp glitter letters. The main problem I have with them is that I can't tell if they are red or pink! I also added a Heidi Swapp glitter chipboard hexagon to add even more glitter.


Lastly, you get a little glimpse of the Elle's Studio die cut piece I slipped next to the photo. I really hope you guys enjoyed this idea for extending the life of your doilies. Don't forget to save those colored ones that were stencils! If you have suggestions for more items you'd like to see stretched let me know in the comments. Thank you so much for stopping by!

Supplies:
*Purchasing through these links is part of an affiliate program and I will receive a small portion of the sale at no additional cost to you*
Shop through Blitsy! http://blitsy.com/ref/z3m57
Shop through Tupelo Designs LLC! http://i.refs.cc/H3vCMoVA 

Tim Holtz Distress Spray Stain ABANDONED CORAL Ranger TSS44079
from: Simon Says Stamp

Tim Holtz Distress Mini Spray Stain ABANDONED CORAL Ranger TSM50247
from: Simon Says Stamp

Ranger Tim Holtz Distress Spray Stain - 1.9oz - Abandoned Coral
from: Blitsy

Tim Holtz by Ranger Distress Stain Spray 1 oz. Abandoned Coral
from: CreateForLess

Similar: Doodlebug LILY WHITE MINI DOILIES 75 Count 4605
from: Simon Says Stamp

Similar: Fox Run Craftsmen Paper Doily 5" Round 36 pc White
from: CreateForLess

Similar: Doodlebug GREY SWISS DOT Washi Tape 12 Yards
from: Simon Says Stamp

Similar: Doodlebug Washi Tape 5/8 in. x 12 yd. Grey
from: CreateForLess

Pebbles Inc GARDEN PARTY 6 x 6 Paper Pad
from: Simon Says Stamp

To complete this little tag, I used some Paper Studio silver glitter enamel dots. I also used some red twine to create a bow at the top of my tag. This makes it easier to attach to whatever I may be attaching it to. I hope you enjoyed this little tag idea! Thanks for stopping by!

Supplies:
*Purchasing through these links is part of an affiliate program and I will receive a small portion of the sale at no additional cost to you*
Shop through Blitsy! http://blitsy.com/ref/z3m57
Shop through Tupelo Designs LLC! http://i.refs.cc/H3vCMoVA 

Create a Smile Stamps - Doctor's Helpers

Tim Holtz Distress Mini Ink Pad CANDIED APPLE Ranger TDP47391
from: Simon Says Stamp

Set that I have: Tim Holtz Distress Ink Pad MINI KIT 15 TDPK46752
from: Simon Says Stamp

Ranger MINI ROUND INK BLENDING TOOLS IBT40965
from: Simon Says Stamp

Similar: American Tag #8 WHITE TAGS Pack of 15 21318
from: Simon Says Stamp

The traditional layout starts with some basic white cardstock. I used two papers from the Rooted Love collection to create a base point for my title and photos. One is a branch patterned paper and the other is a diamond pattern. You'll see that I incorporate more of the diamond patterned paper on the opposite page. Take a look at my process video for more information.


So, now that you know the process, we can dive into more details and photos. The photos might be my favorite part (besides the process of making the layout). If you have any questions after reading my post, please leave me a comment below and I'll answer your questions!


The Wild Whisper sequins I used on this layout are the perfect mix for all of my nature inspired layouts! They're also great for baby layouts, night layouts, and so much more. I dabbled a few of those in my clusters. This cluster in particular also includes a wood veneer word from Jillibean Soup.


I also included a cluster to the right of my photo. It utilizes a BoBunny chipboard swirl as well as some twine from my stash. I really love this mini flair that I included from The Crafty Pocket. You can also see more of the Wild Whisper sequins in this cluster here too.


I really loved how these collections easily flowed together and mixing and matching the pocket cards with the 12x12 papers was fun too! I gave both my photo and title card a boost with some foam sheets. This is an easy way to add dimension. I added a doily to add a light touch to these woodsy elements.


The adventure card pack from Wild Whisper is really featured on the matching pocket page. I used both wood sliced patterned cards on this layout to help the flow of the right side. I also brought in more of the same shades of colored cardstock from the traditional layout to help with continuity. The tiny star sequins are lovely matched with these elements as well.


One of my favorite cards from the Adventure card collection pack is this card here with a lovely quote. To match the other side, I used some foam under this piece as well. Since I didn't have the exact pocket sizes I wanted for this layout, I taped two of the Wild Whisper cards together to make a 4x6 size instead.


This is the overview of the second page. These are lovely photos of the Chimney Bluffs in New York. They are a really unique place to visit if you get the chance. I hope you enjoyed this double page tutorial! Thanks for stopping by!

Supplies:

Wild Whisper - Adventure Card Pack
Wild Whisper - 12x12 Rooted Love Paper Collection
Wild Whisper - Adventure Sequins by Spiegel Mom Scraps

When thinking about making a double page spread, I first start with a basic background. This one happens to be white cardstock for both sides, but you could also use colored cardstock or even patterned paper. I find that having the same background paper for both sides helps me greatly. I hope you enjoy the process video for this fun tic-tac-toe challenge! Be sure to check out everyone else's videos as well.



So, as you can tell, for my tic-tac-toe I decided to use flair, wood veneer, and washi tape. You can see the full tic-tac-toe board in my video in case you want to play along! Now, before we really dive in, this is a warning that there are a LOT of photos coming at you. I will keep the in between text short so you can get all of the details that you need.


We're starting in the top left corner and looking at some details! I have used a Pretty Little Studio die cut word to bring out the green in the photos. As per the tic-tac-tie board, I also placed an arrow wood veneer. Whenever I put arrows on a layout, I want to be sure that they aren't pointing off of the page and that they are pointing to something I want the viewer to go to. In this case, it points to my little elephant!


This next cluster is so cute! I've been meaning to use this little elephant stamp. I picked him up at Michael's the other week for .50. I stamped him and then lightly colored him using some of my watercolor pencils. As you can see, he is atop of the navy and floral washi tape. The elephant is also on top of a Doodlebug doily in the color poolside. I like to keep my clusters simple, but intense with texture. I also paired another Pretty Little Studio diecut heart, a tiny wood veneer heart, and some sequins. All of these items have a different height, size, color, and texture which is a field day for my eyeballs.


This cluster I consider to be the bridge between my pages. It uses a Project Life card that I received in a RAK. I like how the bright yellow pops on the page. On top of that, I layered a white tag with some twine, a Heidi Swapp chipboard glitter circle, a Project Life Kiwi Edition flair, and an asterisk wood veneer. Again, I love working with texture. Here you can see the main texture comes from the glitter piece.


The last cluster I created is in the bottom right of the second layout. I used some more of the Pretty Little Studio diecuts from their Woodland collection. I also used a little sticker from Simple Stories. I had to add a little more splash of summer elements, so I found this diecut in the same Pebbles pack and I put it in this cluster. Lastly, I decorated the entire page with some colorful sequins from a RAK. I hope you all enjoyed this fun layout and be sure to hop along for the rest of the Tic Tac Toe challenge! Thanks for stopping by!

For both cards I started with a card base that is made of 110 lb heavy weight white cardstock. I cut and score it so it ends up being 4 1/4" x 5 1/2". Then, we have some decisions to make. In one example I use color cardstock for the front panel while in the other one (the one above) I used white cardstock. The choice is completely up to you. I think they would look great with different pastel color schemes. Check out my tutorial below for a better visual on how you can make these fun cards.


Now that you know how it works we can dive into details! I absolutely love both of these stamp sets. The one from the dollar store I just happened to stumble upon last summer. The Wild Whisper stamp set from the No Place Like Home collection is so versatile! I do have to say that they dollar store floral set are low quality, but they function just fine. One of my favorite parts of making these cards was using all of these fun ink colors! I use Whisper inks (which are super old, probably at least 8 years old) which are dye inks, or at least, I think they are. But you can use any types of ink for this. I think a set of chalk or distress inks would give a fun texture to this style of card too.


In the above example, I used the same setting of the stamps on my stamp block, but dipped them into different inks and dotted them all about the background. You could get variations on these cards by using monochromatic tones or by doing overlapping stamping. I personally liked the look of utilizing a blue, green, and purple ink. Then, to finish this card off I used my adorable bunny phrase stamp from Studio G and layered that with some various colored cardstocks.


The card in the video had a little nit more of a process to it. I really wanted to utilize my flexibility with the stamping tool and this card was fun to do it with! Although, as I say in the video, it would definitely work better with square cards! I also really like the stamping tool because it allows me to get a better impression and layer more ink layers to achieve darker colors.


I like how I can utilize even the smallest of stamps to create a large impact by using a lot of color. I hope you enjoyed this trial/error sort of tutorial, but I would definitely recommend it for square cards, but the mirrored grid pattern is still fun! Thanks for stopping by!

Supplies:
*Purchasing through these links is part of an affiliate program and I will receive a small portion of the sale at no additional cost to you*
Shop through Blitsy! http://blitsy.com/ref/z3m57
Shop through Tupelo Designs LLC! http://i.refs.cc/H3vCMoVA 

Wild Whisper No Place Like Home Stamp Set

I started with a map background and layered some of the border pieces from the paper pack. Then I used a cut apart piece that also works as my title. The borders are at the top and the bottom of the main portion to help keep it contained.


Above the photo on the left, I created a cluster using some punches, I used an EK Success border punch and a scrap of patterned paper to create more interest. Then, I used an EK Success ticket punch to create a fun label. Then, I used a silver rub on from basic grey that is a beach ball and it says "fun in the sun". I finished this cluster off with a Tim Holtz tiny word sticker and some Studio Calico blue gems.


My last cluster is in the bottom right of the layout. This diagonal flow helps the eye navigate the page. I used a cut apart from the same paper pack and another Tim Holtz sticker. I also used a cork sticker to add more texture. I hope you enjoyed this simple layout! Thanks for stopping by!

Supplies:
*Purchasing through these links is part of an affiliate program and I will receive a small portion of the sale at no additional cost to you*
Shop through Blitsy! http://blitsy.com/ref/z3m57
Shop through Tupelo Designs LLC! http://i.refs.cc/H3vCMoVA 

This little otter guy is from the same My Favorite Things stamp set. I stamped this little fella with some Staz-on black ink and then lightly water colored him. I then, made the sentiment piece. I used two stamps to create the little bubble using Memento black ink. This ink has really great coverage and I would really recommend it (but it is not water proof). These stamps are from a Whimsy Stamps stamp set.  


The card base is the traditional size of 5 1/2" x 8 1/2" and scored at 4 1/4". I layered a kraft cardstock panel on top of that. To create a base for my little otter man to lay on I used a couple of different materials. I used black polka dot washi tape from Scotch to give contrast. Then, I added some light blue lace ribbon on top of that for texture.


I also used a partial doily from Recollections behind my otter. I like how there are different shades of blue on this card. They almost represent the water ways that our little otter friend would be floating on. To finish off the front of the card, I used a couple Echo Park enamel dots. I love this beautiful light blue color because it matches the lace too.


I am enjoying putting something on the inside of my cards lately, so this card was no exception! This is the same sentiment I have been using from other cards which is from Whimsy Stamps again. I hope you enjoyed this other otter card. It's fun to see the variations of one stamp set on different cards. Thanks for stopping by!

Like I mentioned before, you will want three 6x6 pieces of paper. They could all be from the same collection, different collections (like I did here), or even all the same pattern, but in different orientations. Either way this is a really easy technique to use on all types of layouts! Below is my process video where I'll explain why I did certain things and such. I hope you enjoy!


Now that you know the process behind the layout, I can dive into more up close photos and details! The three papers I used to create my clover are from Pebbles' Garden Party (left), Crate Paper's Notes & Things (top), and My Mind's Eye Here is Happy paper pad (right). To give each paper more dimension I recommend either inking them or do what I did and make a marker border. In the process video you can see how I used my t-square ruler to make the lines all of the pieces.


I did simple matting on my photo here with some white cardstock and then DCWV jeweled cardstock behind that. I also made a small cluster to the left of the photo. Starting with a base using a Project Life card that I received in a RAK. I also included a doily (which is actually Halloween themed), a heart sticker and a phrase sticker. This part and the photo are on foam to give it more emphasis.


The title is one of my favorite things about this layout (although I do love the entire thing)! The title starts in the top right with this Amy Tangerine thicker that says "hooray". The script font adds whimsy while the black color adds a lot of contrast. I also added some sequins to give an additional pop of color.


The rest of the title is to the bottom right of the photo. This helps create a diagonal path for the eye to follow. Having the sequins on both sections of the title as well as the phrase stickers also helps keep the cohesiveness. This half of the title is made again with some American Crafts Thickers that are so lovely! The coral color matched my top patterned paper very well.


I hope you all enjoyed this really fun layout! I don't scrapbook birthday layouts that often (or do I?). Let me know what some of your birthday traditions are! We don't usually do pie, but there is always a treat! Again, I hope you enjoyed this video for my 6x6 Fix series and if you want to see more ideas go check out my playlist over on YouTube! Thanks for stopping by!