Practical Scrappers

Time for the Fourth Round of the Layout Contest

2012-02-08T22:52:00.000-06:00

Well we've made it to round four! You all voted for your favorite layouts and we have those designers showcased today!
This week you can vote for up to 3 designers that you think should advance. The admin team here will choose two and together we'll present you with the Top 5 next Saturday! Voting and the layouts for this round will be available from 12:01 a.m. Saturday 4th until February 8th.
A special thanks to our contest sponsors!

Momenta

Brand New Stamp Company: Precious Remembrance GIVEAWAY Alert!

2012-02-08T21:50:00.000-06:00

Our fresh face designer, Dyane, has started her own clear stamp company. We're all about helping people get a start and are happy to help Dyane in her new endeavor. Today we're going to share some projects featuruing stamps from Precious Remembrance and give you a chance to get your hands on some! Dyane was gracious enough to send me two of the stamp sets to play with and create some projects for you!

On this layout I used the stamps to make my "Memories" and "Together" flags from the Love Stamp Set.

Again I used the Together stamp from the Love Stamp Set.

This time I created my entire background using the XOXOXOXO stamp from the Friend Stamp Set.

I pulled a couple examples from their blog to share with you also.

Would you like to win your own copies of these two cute and practical stamp sets? Head on over to their Facebook Page and become a fan. Comment and let them know that you came from Practical Scrappers and you will be automatically entered. Dyane will pick a winner and we'll announce it here and there on their page on Monday, February 13th! Ready - Set - Go!

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Valentine Cards

2012-02-08T00:00:00.000-06:00

Happy Wednesday Everyone! Today we have some more Valentine inspiration for you, cards. Haven't found that perfect gift for that special someone yet? A handmade card made with a little extra TLC from you is the perfect way to say "I Love You". Here's some great inspiration from our design team...

Practical Scrapper Aymee

Amber Goble

Practical Scrapper Jayma

Practical Scrapper Sue

Practical Scrapper Dyane

Practical Scrapper Cathy

Fresh Face Mary Pat Siehl

Practical Scrapper Caz

Practical Scrapper Kerri

Pin It**Designer projects are not always linked in our posts, but you can always find their blogs in our sidebar or in the staff tab**

Challenge Me Tuesday: A Touch of Black

2012-02-07T09:10:00.001-06:00

**Next week we're featuring scroll banners; you know the ribbon like banners often seen held up by or at the feet of cherubs. Send us your projects for a chance to be part of our feature! E-mail a link to practicalscrappers@gmail.com.

Here's an example from Wow Vectors

Hello Tuesday! Today we're featuring some awesome projects using black matting to accent photos, titles, die cuts and other page elements. In colour theory, you learn that colours take on different characteristics depending on surrounding colours. Don't believe me? Try placing a small square of coloured paper on different shades and hues of background, and check out the differences.

Even if colour theory doesn't interest you too much, it's easy to see how it makes colours pop!

If you still don't believe me, check out these great pages:

Practical Scrapper Krissy Clark McKee

Stephanie Umpleby

Practical Scraper Brenda

Jessica Shurts

Practical Scrapper Sue

Libeeti

Practical Scrapper Erin

based on a Sketch by JJ Sobey for LCOM Sketches

Charlotte Brochu
using a sketch from Sketches with a Twist

Practical Scrapper Kristy

Practical Scrapper Liz Chidester

Practical Scrapper Jenny

**Designer projects are not always linked in our posts, but you can always find their blogs in our sidebar or in the staff tab**

Valentine's Inspired Layouts

2012-02-06T08:38:00.000-06:00

Hard to believe it is almost Valentine's Day! We've got lots of Valentine's Day projects in our Idea Central tab...and today we've got some new layouts from our designers to share!

Cupid's Cutie

Practical Scrapper Aymee

Practical Scrapper Cathy

Sketch by Cherie Averill/Sassy Lil Sketches

Practical Scrapper Christa

for Momenta

Practical Scrapper Caz

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Round Four Layout Contest

2012-02-04T10:07:00.000-06:00

This week we asked the contestants to make a layout with black and white and a pop of color. The result is 11 very striking layouts - good luck choosing your favorites! We went with 11 because of some very tight races in the votes. This week you may vote for your three favorites and we will be choosing two - that means we're going down to five next week!

Donna Durand

Lynn Shokoples

Janet Zeppa

Jamilie Rader

Wendi Robinson

Julie Comeau

Denise Coulter

Audrey Yeager

Ulrika Wandler

Andrea Friebus

Genevieve LeBlanc

Pick your top three! The voting closes for this round on Wednesday, February 8th.

Pin It **Designer projects are not always linked in our posts, but you can always find their blogs in our sidebar or in the staff tab**

Fabulous Finds Friday

2012-02-03T00:01:00.002-06:00

Hi, designer Carolina here to share some Fabulous Finds today. February's just started but I can see hearts in every blog I visit! We don't celebrate Valentine's day in Argentina, but our daughter has been going to American/International schools since she was three, so we now make Valentines every year. Any excuse to craft is a good excuse, right? So, here are the first ten fabulous Valentine projects I have found:

1.- These Chemistry Valentine Tubes by Aphra Bolyer are stunning. I love the colours, and the fact that you could use any kind of patterned paper, as long as you have a heart punch for those special touches.

2.- Teresa Kline's Card with 3 Hearts makes my heart flutter. Don't you love the colour choices and all the distressing, embossing and glitter on that card?

3.- My favourite part of Deanna Misner's "They are my Heart" layout is the big heart that looks like it's been quilted. What a fabulous way to catch your eye and then let you move your attention to the cute kids in the picture. Gorgeous!

4.- I could really use some of these Felt Heart Bookmarks Alison has shared, as I continually lose my place in books and end up reading complete chapters twice (though I do enjoy getting the extra details you can get from a second read!). They are easy to make, could be made in any colour, and would certainly make a great gift. There's even a free pattern for you to download!

5.- My daughter immediately fell in love with this Countdown to Valentine's Day Calendar created by Lindsey, and so did I. It is an easy project, but it looks totally stunning. I think I will do something similar for her birthday. Oh, my to-do list is ever growing...

6.- If you prefer a clean, graphic look for your cards, Valerie's "Love is in the Air" card is the right project to inspire you. I love the twine, the embossing, and the speech bubbles are fantastic.

7.- This "Sweet Love" layout is not only beautiful, Jessy included a fab tutorial that shows you how to make cute owls from patterned paper circles.

8.- Have you got Valentine's day decorations? I don't, and didn't even know they existed until I saw this LOVE Project by Rebecca Keppel. Now, I need to have one, how can I resist temptation when looking at such an amazing project?

9.- In need of some gift tags for those presents you are buying or making? If your answer is yes, you can't miss Suzanne Sergi's Sealed with Love Tags. My favourite tag is the one with the heart shaker box and the confetti. Which one is yours?
10.- I'd like to finish the list with another scrapbooking page, Megan Klauer's "I Love you" layout. I love all the hearts and small embellies "floating" in a vertical strip by the photo, and the way the title was arranged. Have a look!

Thank you for visiting Practical Scrappers today. There are more and more Valentine's Day projects being posted as we speak, so if you've also started to feel love is in the air and would like to see some more fabulous projects to inspire you, come back next week for Valentine Day's Fabulous Finds - Part II.

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Projects Using Flowers

2012-02-02T15:54:00.001-06:00

Sorry for the delay all, but Happy Groundhog Day to everyone!! You all ready for six more weeks of winter? Well, if the sound of winter lasting six more weeks is depressing to you then today's post will cheer you up. Spring may not me as close around the corner as we hoped, but we have signs of flowers blooming here. Today we feature projects using flowers and what a garden of them we have. From ribbon flowers to Primas...rolled die cut to pre-made; there's enough different flowers here to make a few bouquets to keep you going until spring really does arrive. Take a look at the arrangements our designers and readers have to share...

Brettaney Quinton

Details and close ups of the flowers can be found on Practical Scrapper Michelle's blog.

Practical Scrapper Kerri

Practical Scrapper Erin die cut flowers from her patterned paper, layered them with stickers from the same collection and added cork accents for a spin.

(before)

(after)

Practical Scrapper Corinna altered a digital frame with patterned paper and Prima flowers and crystals.

Practical Scrapper Kerri used her Die-namics rolled roses dies from My Favorite Things to create all of her rolled flowers on this layout. Psst...that paper is from our sponsor, Authentique, from their "Glowing" collection.

Practical Scrapper Jayma
Book Page Wedding Bouquet, flowers cut from Art Philosophy Cricut cartridge

Practical Scrapper Lynn

Pin It **Designer projects are not always linked in our posts, but you can always find their blogs in our sidebar or in the staff tab**

Corrugated Elements on Layouts

2012-02-01T06:04:00.000-06:00

Monday, we shared with you some cards that have corrugated elements on them. Today, let's take a look at some layouts from our readers and designers sporting those embellies of "ripples" and "ridges"...

Practical Scrapper Corinna

Practical Scrapper Aymee

Practical Scrapper Liz

Mary Pat Siehl

Practical Scrapper Audrey

Practical Scrapper Jayma

Practical Scrapper Fern

Amber Sheaves

Practical Scrapper Jenny

Pin It **Designer projects are not always linked in our posts, but you can always find their blogs in our sidebar or in the staff tab**

Challenge Me Tuesday: Banners without triangles

2012-01-31T00:22:00.000-06:00

Happy Tuesday everyone! It's challenge day here at Practical Scrappers, and here's how it works: Today we show off our designer's responses to last week's challenge, as well as feature some fun examples submitted by our readers. We then issue the new challenge for the week, and ask you to send us yours, so that we might share it next week. Sound like fun? Send us your email, with CMT and the challenge in the subject to practicalscrapperslayouts(at)gmail(dot)com, along with a link to the project and your name.

Our last challenge was to use banners with shapes other than the usual triangular shapes. It seems from the responses, that the rectangular pennant with the triangles cut from them is the next most popular shape, followed by folded scalloped circles. Honestly though, the possibilities for shapes to use in a banner are endless, so have some fun, and mix it up a bit!

Practical Scrapper Erin used Momenta die cuts and stickers joined by stitching to create the banner on this page. ( scraplift of a layout by N.Nowosad)

Kristie Taylor

Practical Scrapper Jenny

(used PageMaps current sketch)

Tina Phillips used tickets to create her banner.

Practical Scrapper Brenda

Cyndee Kawa strung hearts to make her banner

Practical Scrapper Liz

Brenda Ragsdale used scalloped half cirlcles layered with hearts.

Practical Scrapper Carolina

used banners made from scalloped circles cut with her Silhouette to embellish this

layout based on Pia's November 2011 sketch

Practical Scrapper Cathy

Fancy Pants Baby Mine Chipboard....

inspired by October Afternoon's Thursday Sketch

**Ready for the next challenge? We want to see your pages and cards using trendy black matting. Mat your photos, your title, your embellishments...get creative, and don't forget to share with us!

Pin It **Designer projects are not always linked in our posts, but you can always find their blogs in our sidebar or in the staff tab**

Corrugated Elements on Cards

2012-01-30T09:44:00.000-06:00

Corrugated embellishments and alphabets are some of my favorite things to work with - you can find them from major manufacturers Jillibean Soup and Little Yellow Bicycle - or you can make your own! You can disassemble some cardboard, find it in other packaging, or even use a paper crimper to achieve a similar look. Today we have some card examples for you showing off this fun embellishment.

Practical Scrapper Christine used the packaging from light bulbs on her card.

Practical Scrapper Corinna made her own corrugated heart by cutting it out of a cardboard box.

Practical Scrapper Erin

Practical Scrapper Cathy

Practical Scrapper Sarah

Mary Pat Siehl

We'll see you Wednesday with corrugated layouts!

Pin It **Designer projects are not always linked in our posts, but you can always find their blogs in our sidebar or in the staff tab**

Getting to know The Paper Bakery

2012-01-28T21:31:00.000-06:00

The Paper Bakery is one of the sponsors for our layout contest and we wanted to take a little time to introduce you to them.

"The Paper Bakery was created to make things easy on those scrapbookers and crafters out there that love projects and mixed media, but want the ease of putting them together. The Paper Bakery offers you unique project kits at an affordable price each and every month. I pride myself in putting together amazing mini albums, banners, home decor items, and MORE for you. Since I know some of you like to jazz up your project kits, I’ve started offering add-on kits that coordinate PERFECTLY with the project kit. That way, you can spruce up your kit in a snap, if you wish! I also value versatility so you can use either kit to make tons of layouts and other projects instead of the monthly kit I’ve designed."

They have a blog full of inspiration and their facebook page is full of fun too (and pssst they're trying to get to 225 fans there!) Angie Gutshall is a designer for them and for us so we thought we'd share a couple of her projects with you!

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3rd Round Layout Contest - Vote here

2012-01-28T00:01:00.000-06:00

As chosen by our readers and the admin team of Practical Scrappers here's your top 15 contestants! This week their layouts were to be based on one of three quilts that we showed them as well as four specific embellishments. If you want to check out the exact details check out the tab up top about the 3rd round. This week you may vote for your seven favorites to advance!

Janet Zeppa

Andrea Friebus

Donna Durand

Jamilie Rader

Mary Pat Siehl

Julie Comeau

Julie Koets

Lynn Shokoples

Audrey Yeager

Genevieve LeBlanc

Camilla Vitchi

Denise Coulter

Carrie Walz

Ulrika Wandler

Wendi Robinson

You may vote for 7 people to move on!

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Fabulous Finds Friday: January 27th

2012-01-27T21:41:00.002-06:00

I love this time of year in the crafty world! Seems people are revving back up after their holidays and embracing all the new ideas from CHA sneak peeks.

Here are few of the wonderful things I've spotted around the blogging universe!

1. Lowri at Papervine shows us how to use some Pink Paislee's vintage vogue buttons to create wine glass markers. Very sophisticated!

2. I found this really cool Valentine's craft for your to do with your kids! All you need is some red paint!

3. Pinterest has been the source of fabulous scrappy inspiration like this doodle from Paisley Bits.

4. Sharon Nassagar Designs have made this gorgeous bouquet..makes me think of spring and all those CHA palettes!

5. Marie shows us how to crochet the cutest butterflies for your cards and layouts..feelin' like Spring!

6. Elena made this gorgeous design on the Proper Feeding and Care of a Teenage Boy.

7. Jamie Warren's creative genius as illustrated by blue wood grain, brown accents and some awfully cute pictures!

8. Scrapping in AK made this gorgeous heartfelt layout. LOVE it!

I certainly hope you will be inspired as I was by these amazing creations.
Until next time, keep doing what you love to do!
Christa
Pin It **Designer projects are not always linked in our posts, but you can always find their blogs in our sidebar or in the staff tab**

Mini Album Feature

2012-01-26T00:01:00.000-06:00

Mini albums come in all shapes and sizes and today we have a few to share with you. It's been awhile since we've featured them and thought it was high time. Click on their names to find more at their individual blogs.

Practical Scrapper Angie Gutshall

Practical Scrapper Corinna

Practical Scrapper Christa

Practical Scrapper Dyane

Practical Scrapper Jayma
(For family friends whose mom passed away.)

Fresh Face Designer Monika Wright

Practical Scrapper Caz To see the rest of this mini please go here

Pin It **Designer projects are not always linked in our posts, but you can always find their blogs in our sidebar or in the staff tab**

Using Ribbon on Layouts

2012-01-25T00:00:00.004-06:00

Monday, you got a peek at some fantastic ideas on how to use ribbon on cards. Today, we share with you some fun, fresh, fabulous ideas on how you can use that ribbon stash on your layouts. Ribbon is a great way to accent color and texture to your pages. It may even be the deciding factor for the little bit of character or charm you want to capture in your layout. Take a look at how our designers and readers use their ribbon to create their flare for their pages...

Practical Scrapper Christa

Addie Otto

Practical Scrapper Aymee

Practical Scrapper Claude

Addie Otto

Practical Scrapper Fern

Practical Scrapper Claude

Addie Otto

Practical Scrapper Liz

Pin It **Designer projects are not always linked in our posts, but you can always find their blogs in our sidebar or in the staff tab**

CMT:Getting Krafty

2012-01-24T09:17:00.004-06:00

( scroll down for next week's challenge)
We challenged you to break out the Kraft embellishments and paper this week, and we've got some great examples to show you.

Practical Scrapper Jenny
This layout melts my heart! A beautifully soft page accented all over with kraft.

Practical Scrapper Jenny
used kraft based paper and embellishments to create a fun masculine page

Practical Scrapper Carolina

allows the bright summery patterned papers to really shine against her Kraft background

Ulrika Wandler used some of the new papers and embellishments by My Mind's Eye to create this stunning page.

Jennifer McDermott made this bright and pretty card shine with a kraft base.

Practical Scrapper Erin used yummy kraft papers from Jillibean Soup for her Valentine page.

Brettany Quinton

I love Brettaney's use of sewing and brads to create this colourful card.

Becci Manies used a kraft base for this sweet card.

Practical Scrapper Cathy
created this sweet boy page with a kraft base and lots of kraft couloured touches.

Lynn S added splashes of black and red on kraft to liven up her kraft background.

With all the great kraft products on the market, we'd love to hear about your favorites in the comments!

**Next week we'll be featuring banners, but banners made without the triangle pennant shapes. Consider yourself challenged, and submit your projects ( blog link please) to practicalscrapperslayouts(at)gmail(dot)com. Your work may just end up featured here!

Pin It **Designer projects are not always linked in our posts, but you can always find their blogs in our sidebar or in the staff tab**

Using Ribbon on Cards

2012-01-23T09:04:00.000-06:00

This week at Practical Scrappers we are zoning in on ribbon. It's a topic we visit regularly because we know everyone has it in their stash (and probably more than we can ever possibly use!). You can find even more ribbon ideas under our Idea Central tab, where we've archived many of our old features on ribbon. Today we kick things off with cards made by our designers.

Amber Goble

Practical Scrapper Sue

Practical Scrapper Jayma

Practical Scrapper Christa

Practical Scrapper Cathy

Practical Scrapper Dyane

Practical Scrapper Aymee

Practical Scrapper Kristy

Pin It **Designer projects are not always linked in our posts, but you can always find their blogs in our sidebar or in the staff tab**

Clean and Simple Projects

2012-01-22T00:01:00.000-06:00

***If you are looking for the layout contest please scroll down***

We're starting a new monthly feature of Clean and Simple projects. We know there are a lot of you out there looking for Clean and Simple and we would love to have you submit your projects for our February feature! This month we've got our designers up with a whole bunch of Clean and Simple ideas to share!

Fresh Face Designer Monika Wright

Practical Scrapper Angie Gutshall

Practical Scrapper Rachel

Practical Scrapper Amber Goble

Practical Scrapper Aymee

Practical Scrapper Christine

Practical Scrapper Aymee

Practical Scrapper Ann

Practical Scrapper Caz

Practical Scrapper Dyane

Practical Scrapper Sue

Practical Scrapper Michelle

Practical Scrapper Christa

Practical Scrapper Jayma

Practical Scrapper Christine (you can access a tutorial for this card by clicking on her name)

Pin It **Designer projects are not always linked in our posts, but you can always find their blogs in our sidebar or in the staff tab**

Second Round of the Layout Contest

2012-01-21T00:01:00.005-06:00

Congratulations to the ladies who made it to the Second Round for our layout contest!

The contestants completed a layout based on one of two sketches, surprisingly this group mostly did one sketch!

You may vote once for 5 layouts this week. 10 ladies will advance thru the choosing of the Practical Scrappers Team and 5 will be "Fan Favorites." Voting closes Wednesday at 11:00 pm CST

Mary Pat Siehl

Melissa Pablo

Denise Coulter

Carrie Walz

Audrey Yeager

Genevieve LeBlanc

Sabina Galfre

Stacia Reiger

Ulrika Wandler

Helena Johansson

Jamilie Rader

Wendi Robinson

Heather Gray

Janet Zeppa

Julie Comeau

Kristin Perez

Julie Koets

Sylvia Van Der Steen

Irina Driga

Lynn Shokoples

Sheila Burns

Zahreen Sharp

Camila Vitchi

Andrea Friebus

Jessica Shurts

Donna Durand

Lynn Shaffer

Julie Rainbolt

Fabulous Finds Friday

2012-01-20T07:00:00.001-06:00

Corinna is up today to share some fabulous finds with you!
Darling birthday layout - I love all the colors.

Thankful layout - I love the tissue scrap under the photo and the cluster at the top corner.

6 cute cards - all made from the same kit.

Bow tying video.

Valentine wreath - so cute! it's teal!

2011 year in review mini album - so cool.

52 things I love about you - mini album from a deck of cards.

adorable baby girl mini album - for your Cricut users.

cool way to stamp clouds - and a free template so you can do it too.

Pin It**Designer projects are not always linked in our posts, but you can always find their blogs in our sidebar or in the staff tab**

Layout Contest: Group 8

2012-01-20T00:00:00.001-06:00

Zahreen Sharp

Charity Becker

Stephanie Umpleby

Sheila Burns

Tina Phillips

Tory Frail

Heidi Swartzentruber

Jennifer Decena Jesse

Addie Otto

Jennifer Reilly

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There will be one more group to vote on tomorrow for the layout contest!

2012-01-19T11:55:00.000-06:00

Layout Contest: Group 7 - One more group tomorrow!

2012-01-19T00:01:00.003-06:00

Debbie Piercy

Denise Coulter

Elizabeth Campau

Emily Cook

Melissa Pablo

Mary Pat Siehl

Lisa Hellstrom

Kathleen Hernandez

Maya Oren-Dahan

Lynn Shaffer

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Trendy Technique: Machine Stitching

2012-01-19T00:01:00.001-06:00

Get ready to be inspired to dust off all those sewing machines! I know it's been awhile since mine has been pulled out of the closet for scrapbooking (probably a year plus -- the last time we featured stitching on here). But what I love most about machine stitching is that 1.) it doesn't have to be perfect, 2.) it says handmade like nothing else and 3.) it's timeless. No matter how the trends may change, machine stitching is here to stay as long as some scrapbooker still owns a sewing machine. If you remember our scrapbooking styles feature we did almost a year now, you'll remember us talking about seeing machine stitching in the Sophisticated and Shabby Chic styles. From looking at these layouts and cards from our designers and readers you can see exactly how they fit to those categories. There is that air of handmade; timeless essence; and if you look real close you'll even see it's not always perfect...take a look!

Practical Scrapper Fern

Baby, I love you

Practical Scrapper Cathy

Stop and Smell the Flowers with You

Practical Scrapper Christa

Heidi Swartzentruber

Practical Scrapper Aymee

Practical Scrapper Carolina

Brett Quinton

Practical Scrapper Audrey Yeager

Who's ready to thread that needle and push that foot pedal full throttle? If you have a layout or card that you did and you'd love for us to take a look at, leave us a link in the comment section.

Remember: We only have today and Friday to feature our contestants in the running for our layout contest. Please be sure to stop by and vote for your favorites. Saturday we will be announcing the top 25!

Pin It **Designer projects are not always linked in our posts, but you can always find their blogs in our sidebar or in the staff tab**

Using clustering on layouts and cards

2012-01-18T09:58:00.000-06:00

Clustering has become so popular and a go to technique for many crafters. It requires a careful eye to know just how much you need and if you want just one cluster or several on a project. It can fit in all kinds of styles from Clean and Simple to Artsy. Today we've got a wide variety of samples for you from our designers and readers showcasing clusters.

Practical Scrapper Christine

Practical Scrapper Michelle

Practical Scrapper Cathy

Brett Quinton

Practical Scrapper Aymee

Practical Scrapper Brenda

Practical Scrapper Cathy

Practical Scrapper Aymee

Practical Scrapper Ann

Practical Scrapper Sarah

Practical Scrapper Jenny

Practical Scrapper Krissy

Pin It **Designer projects are not always linked in our posts, but you can always find their blogs in our sidebar or in the staff tab**

Layout Contest: Group 6

2012-01-18T00:00:00.002-06:00

Each day from now until Friday we will post a new group - but today is Group 6. You may vote for as many layouts as you would like - but once you've cast your votes it will not allow you a second round of voting. You will cast separate votes for each group. The poll will close at the end of the day Central Standard Time. For all other details please see the post at the top of Practical Scrappers.

Isabelle Gagnon

Patricia Flores

Jessica Shurts

Cassandra Chen

Kim Brownfield

Janet Zeppa

Van Nguyen

Christy Bowersox

Lisanna

Leah Schwartz

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Layout Contest: Group 5

2012-01-17T11:37:00.001-06:00

Each day from now until Friday we will post a new group - but today is Group 5. You may vote for as many layouts as you would like - but once you've cast your votes it will not allow you a second round of voting. You will cast separate votes for each group. The poll will close at the end of the day Central Standard Time. For all other details please see the post at the top of Practical Scrappers.

Valerie Durham

Wendy Crowe

Lynn Shokoples

Gloria

Carrie Walz

Faith Abigail Prado

Jamilie Rader

Andrea Friebus

Erin Blegen

Suzanne Spokus

Pin It **Designer projects are not always linked in our posts, but you can always find their blogs in our sidebar or in the staff tab**

Challenge Me Tuesday: Popping Paper

2012-01-17T09:33:00.000-06:00

** Next challenge is to get Krafty! Let's see you use up some of that kraft coloured paper, cardboard, and kraft embellishments! Send us your samples at practicalscrapperslayouts(at)gmail(dot)com fr a chance to be part of our feature next week!

This week, we asked that you create a project using paper in a way that gives it dimension. ( folding, rolling, twisting, crimping, crushing, pop-ups etc. We wanted to see projects that were different than the usual paper flowers and dry embossing. We've got some great examples for you, enjoy!

Practical Scrapper Erin rolled her journaling spot in two directions to give it a "scroll" shape before gluing it onto her layout

Practical Scrapper Christine added dimension to her project by poking pin holes in the shape of a heart in her paper.

Practical Scrapper Christine didn't just use any old paper to make her medallion flowers, she used border die cuts from Momenta. The pink one with the different edges is made from a scalloped border.

Practical Scrapper Christine glued only the center of her Momenta flowers down and then pulled the petals up to add some unique dimension.

Practical Scrapper Rachel used her Silhouette machine to create the pop-out ampersand on her card.

Rolled paper candles in a Perfect Dozen! (flames are flower petals!)

Practical Scrapper Christa

Practical Scrapper Erin used fringe scissors to add dimension to the wild Momenta papers she used for this page.

Folding and distressing combined
Practical Scrapper Erin

Ann used a scoring blade to create mountain and valley fold lines that result in this pleated paper.

Practical Scrapper Ann

Cathy made loops in various sizes with paper and some burlap ribbon!
Practical Scrapper Cathy

Happy Tuesday!

Pin It **Designer projects are not always linked in our posts, but you can always find their blogs in our sidebar or in the staff tab**

Layout Contest: Group 4

2012-01-16T00:00:00.002-06:00

Audrey Yeager

Jamie Cripps

Tiffany Call

Jean Knox

Vicki Wilson

Brenda Rose

Patricia Gelder

Maritha Frolid

Julie Koets

Donna Bryant Durand

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Layout Contest: Group 2

2012-01-15T00:00:00.007-06:00

Each day from now until Friday we will post a new group - but today is Group 2 & 3. You may vote for as many layouts as you would like - but once you've cast your votes it will not allow you a second round of voting. You will cast separate votes for each group. The poll will close at the end of the day Central Standard Time. For all other details please see the post at the top of Practical Scrappers.

Sylvia van der Steen

Päivi Jänkälä

Kim Martin

Geneviève Leblanc

Sabina Galfre

Meiko Sejima

Wendi Robinson

Ulrika Wandler

Camilla Vitchi

Julie Leonhardt

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Layout Contest: Group 3

2012-01-14T23:59:00.001-06:00

Each day from now until Friday we will post a new group, today we are actually posting two. You may vote for as many layouts as you would like - but once you've cast your votes it will not allow you a second round of voting. You will vote separately for this group and group 2. The poll will close at the end of the day Central Standard Time. For all other details please see the post at the top of Practical Scrappers.

Leila Cassimira Cardoso

Shanna Nalywaiko

Karen Zabuska

Stacia Reiger

Helena Johansson

Jules Dix

Malin Jonsson

Pia Åstrand

Joan Borgelt

Sabrina Giordano

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Layout Contest: Group 1

2012-01-14T00:00:00.002-06:00

Each day from now until Friday we will post a new group. You may vote for as many layouts as you would like - but once you've cast your votes it will not allow you a second round of voting. The poll will close at the end of the day Central Standard Time. For all other details please see the post at the top of Practical Scrappers.

Heather Gray

Lisa Watson

Susanne Brauer

Irina Driga

April Walker

Sandi Pressley

Martine Lebelle

Michelle Gallant

Julie Comeau

Therese Broman

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Fabulous Finds Friday

2012-01-13T13:30:00.000-06:00

We are working hard on the layout contest, so this will be a shorter edition but here's some inspiration for you from around the web!

American Crafts has been doing a quilt inspired feature. It's amazing! And I was so inspired by it that we're going to do one of our own...see the current calls!

Momenta has been doing a share week with Glue Arts! Check out the gorgeous projects that are featured including some from your admins here Christine & Erin. Plus there's a giveaway!

Layering Technique It is fascinating to have a scrapper open up their creative process!

Tons of Pics on this two page layout - and it doesn't look crowded - Awesome!

A sweet and funny little layout from Heather.

The heart of Practical Scrappers is using up some supplies. Julie did just that here!

Love the stitching, colors, and all the white space on this layout.

And because I am out of time, but want to share a card I'll share this one. You'll recognize the creator. :)

Have a great Friday - we'll be back with some layouts for you to vote on tomorrow!

Pin It **Designer projects are not always linked in our posts, but you can always find their blogs in our sidebar or in the staff tab**

Layout Contest Deadline is Tomorrrow!

2012-01-12T08:55:00.000-06:00

Have you entered the layout contest yet? We would love to have you play along...but you are running out of time! The prizes are amazing! You can find all the details http://www.practicalscrappers.com/2012/01/time-for-layout-contest.html !
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More Journaling Inspiration

2012-01-11T21:54:00.000-06:00

So I completely forgot to post the reader layouts earlier, so sorry about that! I'm enjoying our recent fans who've been sharing digital layouts too. Here they are!

Heidi Nicole

Addie Otto

Irit Shalom

Heidi Nicole

Pin It **Designer projects are not always linked in our posts, but you can always find their blogs in our sidebar or in the staff tab**

Layouts that showcase Journaling

2012-01-11T09:32:00.000-06:00

Sometimes the pictures tell the story and sometimes the journalling is so awesome that is makes the layout. Today we're sharing layouts from readers and our designers that zone in on journaling! And don't forget only a couple more days to enter the layout contest!

Practical Scrapper Julie included her sons when journaling for this layout. She created a blank template for each of them and allowed them to fill in the blanks. It's a great way to capture a young person's personality, opinions, and to preserve samples of their handwriting!

Practical Scraapper Pia

Practical Scrapper Julie

The burgundy circle is a tab that lifts the hinged photo to reveal a poem underneath.

Practical Scrapper Ann

Practical Scrapper Krissy

Practical Scrapper Christine

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Challenge Me Tuesday: 2011 Trends

2012-01-10T00:01:00.000-06:00

** Continue reading to the end for next week's challenge!

Last week we presented the first challenge for the 2012; a look back at the trends of 2011. Recurring trends like misting, twine and banners. There were so many fun trends and techniques, this one was really open to interpretation! We showed you some examples from our great design team last week, and here are a few more responses to the challenge:

Practical Scrapper Erin

I basically emptied my odds and ends on this, including trends like mist, washi tape, cork and pins.

Mary Pat Siehl

Mary used banners, twine and mist

Charity Becker

Charity used a banner, twine, mist and a rainbow on her sweet New Year card.

Practical Scrapper Carolina Garrido

Carolina's page features chevrons, twine, and Smash Book embellies along with a great way to photograph the new year!

I loved seeing everyone's take on the "hot" trends of 2011. Any predictions of what type of trends we might see emerge 2012?

**This week's next challenge is "Popping Paper". Create a project that features a unique way to give dimension to your paper. Ideas might include folding, rolling, scrunching, pop ups and layering. Send me your creations at practicalscrapperslayouts@gmail(dot)com, for a chance to be featured here!

Have a great rest of the week!

Pin It **Designer projects are not always linked in our posts, but you can always find their blogs in our sidebar or in the staff tab**

Frugal Finds: Leftovers from Christmas

2012-01-09T08:56:00.000-06:00

Christine, Carolina, and Cathy are back today with a frugal finds feature on using some leftovers from Christmas. Dig thru that stash of yours, you never know what you might come up with!

Practical Scrapper Christine decided to play with tinsel and see what she could come up with. She laid down a whole bunch of tacky glue on her heart and then laid rows of tinsel down. Afterwards she trimmed the edges. She also found there were spots she had to give it a haircut :) to make it all lay correctly.

Practical Scrapper Carolina

This year I decided to make Christmas jammies for the whole family, but I only started sewing a month ago, so I bought WAYYYYYYY too much fabric. Enough to make not only jammies but cushion covers, banners, and now create fabric hearts for my layout (the brownish hearts are made from Santa's beard!!!).

Practical Scrapper Cathy

I picked up a box of these snowflake ornaments last year, a box of 12 for a $1.00. They are super light weight, thin and glittery...perfect for all types of paper crafting!

Another tinsel card from Christine...she tried out just layering it at the bottom of the card.

Pin It **Designer projects are not always linked in our posts, but you can always find their blogs in our sidebar or in the staff tab**

Paint and splattering layouts

2012-01-07T10:35:00.000-06:00

Using paint on layouts and mist to create paint like splatters has gotten so huge in the last year. I have been finding myself thinking I could have used some splattering on layout (often too late to do anything about it) so I thought some inspiration on this subject was due. You will find several fresh ideas for using paint or splattering with your mists that I think you will enjoy! Stay tuned for an upcoming tutorial on how to achieve different splatters!

Practical Scrapper Michelle

Practical Scrapper Caz Hancock Using mist splatters

Practical Scrapper Liz

Practical Scrapper Amber Goble - mist splatter

Practical Scrapper Cathy

Practical Scrapper Christa - Watercolours

Pin It **Designer projects are not always linked in our posts, but you can always find their blogs in our sidebar or in the staff tab**

Fabulous Finds Friday

2012-01-06T14:57:00.000-06:00

Hi there! Practical Scrapper Ann here with this week's installment of Friday Fabulous Finds. With a new year, comes a new edition of CHA. Yes, the winter CHA is just 3 weeks away and some manufacturers are already teasing us with sneak peeks, so today's finds are all about those sneak peeks. Which of these items can you picture yourself using in the near future?

1. Heidi Sonboul designed this bright floral and graphics 12 x 12 pad (also in 8 x8) for GCD Studios. The chevron trend that was big in 2011 is remaining here in early 2012, judging by this line. Do you like the large vintagey drawings? It appears GCD will also have a 2nd line to launch at CHA, too.

2. Prima has sneaked us peeks of 2 lines so far, Nature Garden andSongbird Collection, which both seem to feature muted colour palettes. What do you think of the accessories, particularly the Shabby Wooden Tickets and Flags, and the Artists Tiles, and Genie Stones?

3. Teresa Collins is partnering with Xyron to launch this sticker maker in pink and houndstooth. Pretty and fashionable, isn't it?

4. For all you grunge fans, Tim Holtz has a new book to launch, A Compendium of Curiosities 2, filled with ideas, tips and techniques a la Tim. Sounds like if you've ever wondered how they did that, this will be a good resource.

5. Pink Paislee is showing off Spring Jubilee . Flowers, birds, butterflies. Breathe in spring as winter really gets serious!

6. Webster's Pages has been teasing with sneak peeks of Sunday Picnic in a classic and clean and simple format.

7. If western is your fave theme, you'll love Sasparilla from October Afternoon - playful, boyish, travel, masculine - a pretty flexible collection!

8. From a newer company, Ruby Rock-it, is this sneak peek of Vintedge andNostalgia. This company is based in Australia with a distribution warehouse in Chicago. They are just ramping up for North America with a recent DT call and greater public awareness.

9. Count on Graphic 45 for something completely different. Their travel line,Tropical Travelogue has me wishing there was a warm vaycay destination in my 2012 plans.

I'm sure there will be lots more reveals from manufacturers in the next few weeks. Which lines are must haves for you?

Pin It **Designer projects are not always linked in our posts, but you can always find their blogs in our sidebar or in the staff tab**

Time for the Layout Contest!

2012-01-05T21:18:00.001-06:00

Last fall we hosted a massively successful card contest and now it is time to do the same but with a layout contest! To get entered you don't even have to create something new! All the details on that are below but first let's talk about prizes. We have over $100 worth of prizes lined up - look at this lineup of sponsors!

We will have all the details of the prizes finalized next week when we kick off the first round...but for now you know that you are getting a shot at some amazing Scrapping Prizes!

Here's the details:

1) Each week we will narrow down the field thru audience voting, voting from the Practical Scrappers design team, or voting from the Administrative team.

2) The contest will have 6 rounds: Those we have chosen for Round 1 will be announced on Saturday, January 14th and each continuing round will be announced on the following Saturday.

3) International entries are welcome, but we reserve the right to modify the prizes according to our sponsors needs should an international participant win.

4) To enter the contest mail us a picture of your favorite layout that you have created in the last two months to practicalscrapperslayouts@gmail.com - you must also include your name, blog address (if applicable), and state or country of residence. We must receive an email with all three of these by midnight CST on Friday, January 13th!

Ready - Set - Go!

Pin It **Designer projects are not always linked in our posts, but you can always find their blogs in our sidebar or in the staff tab**

Getting to Know Your Practical Scrappers--Meet Our Design Team!

2012-01-05T00:00:00.008-06:00

Part of my New Year's resoultion this year is to take the time to get to get to know the people involved in all aspects of my life a little better. I applied that to my online scrappy world and I asked all our designers to take the time and write a little bio about themselves to share with all of you, our readers. It's a little lengthy because of all the talented ladies we have here, but we want all of you to start out 2012 getting connected with us.
Meet Your Practical Scrapper Design Team of 2012!

Administrators

I'm Christine the founder of Practical Scrappers. I love the journey that this site has taken me on in getting to know talented scrappers from all over the world and providing me with constant inspiration! My hubby and I are blessed with three beautiful children. My hubby is a Pastor and as he prepared to become one we lived in Texas, Oklahoma, and Missouri before finally settling into rural Illinois. I teach 30 music lessons a week and spend the rest of my time at home with my youngest kids. I love to papercraft and have always loved using layouts to help me keep track of all the little memories I would quickly forget otherwise! I enjoy making cards and especially using them to use up stash or items that I have no idea how to incorporate on a layout! Nearly every night after my kids go to bed you can find me bunkered down in my basement studio crafting away. A fun fact about me, I almost always stick things down with adhesive and then end up pulling them back up...friends who craft with me are entertained by my inability to commit :)! I have been blessed to be a designer for Momenta and design specialist for Authentique, companies which I love and feel honored to showcase their products! I'd love to have you pop in and visit my blog: Scrapping with Christine!

Hello All! I am Kerri, one of the original Practical Scrappers. I began my journey with Practical Scrappers two years ago as a designer and have found my way into helping Christine (along with Erin) to help administrate this fabulous blog that I refer to as my "scrappy home". I am a mom of three beautiful children , who are all in school these days, which has in turn sent mom back into the workforce for the first time in 9 years. Entering back into the workforces has presented many new challenges for me with managing the mom duties, work life, kids activities, and my own personal time. I am ever so thankful for my scrapbooking time these days and cherish each moment I get to play with my paper. There is no better stress relief than cutting, tearing, ripping, sanding, crumpling--"DE-STRESSING" paper in my book. A fun fact about me, if I'm not de-stressing with paper then you will find my de-stressing in the karate dojo where I help instruct an Kindergarten through second grade self defense class or watching my favorite pass time--PSU and Steeler football. You can find me at Kerri's Kr8tions , my blog, which I also have made a part of my New Year's resolution to post something once a week!

I'm Erin Morehouse, and I live outside of Montreal, Canada with my awesome husband and our 3 lively boys. Although they keep me on my toes most days, I'm usually able to squeeze in some time to putter in my studio once they're all in bed. I've been a fan of Practical Scrappers from the first day I came across the site, back in 2009. I think I made the discovery around the second or third challenge item, and fell in love with the idea of using challenges to get me using some of my growing collection of supplies. I began designing for PS in October of 2009, and eventually was given the honor of lending a hand to Christine as an administrator. Although we've seen some great format changes over the years, my favorite features are still the ones that really hold onto the original concept of Practical Scrappers; Frugal Finds, and Challenge Me Tuesday. I love to be challenged, but I also love to inspire, and be inspired by others creativity. You can get to know more about me, and my work by visiting my blog: Girl. Paper, Scissors.

Designers

Hi! I am Krissy Clark McKee. I live deep in the heart of suburbia right outside of Houston, Texas. My husband and I have a blended Brady Bunch family of six kids (boy, girl, boy, girl, boy, girl). Luckily all but the youngest two are out of the house and self-sufficient, except occasionally during dinner time. Our blended family extends to our family pets, which currently include 4 ankle-biting dogs, 2 cats whose greatest desire is to figure out how to open the pantry door, and a pet rat (yes, you did read that correctly)! I drink entirely too much coffee and think Diet Dr. Pepper is one of man’s greatest inventions! I have been papercrafting about two and a half years, and it is a full-fledged obsession. I especially love creating traditional layouts, re-purposing or altering items, and making mini-albums - although as long as I have paper and glue in my hands, I am happy! I am most inspired by pictures of ordinary, everyday events because when I am old and senile, those are the memories I want to look at and read about!

Hi my name is Amber and I'm so happy to be joining the team at Practical Scrappers. I've been scrapbooking for years and the past few I've fell in love with card making. I'm currently on several design teams, including Inspired By Stamping, Stamp School, and The Sampler Kit Club. I've been published in Cards Magazine, Scrapbook Trends Magazine, and Creating Keepsakes.
When I'm not scrapping, I'm farming. I've been happily married to my Hubby for 8 years and we have 2 fur babies, Jake and Gracie. We live on a farm nestled in the Appalachian Mountains of Kentucky. I've also been a pediatric nurse for 10 years.
I'd love for you to visit my blog, The Country Scrapper...where I share all my creations plus stories from the farm.

Hello!!
My name is Jenny from Ponca City, Oklahoma. I graduated from Oklahoma State University in December 2007, but have luckily been able to stay home with my family! I'm married to my amazing and supportive husband, who is also my high school sweetheart! We have 2 super sweet and adorable boys, Daniel (9) and Jacob (3) and one little yorkie puppy!
I dabbled in scrapbooking on and off for a few years after my oldest was born, and re-fell in love with it in April/May 2011. I have been full force since then and haven't looked back! My boys are my sole inspiration, though I am branching out and learning to scrap myself and other family (my adorable niece and nephew). I feel that I am now slowly settling into my "style", and making my way through this scrapbook world while preserving all of these amazing memories in the process!

I am new to the DT at Practical Scrappers, and am so excited to be here!!

You can view more about Jenny at her blog: My Little Scrap Corner

Hello scrappers! My name is Corinna. I've been with Practical Scrappers since February 2010 and I never want to leave. I love it here! I'm 40-something, married to Ken, have an 11-year-old daughter named Summer, who is the love of my life (don't tell hubby!) and the subject of probably 90% of my scrapbook pages. I live in Illinois about 3-1/2 hours south of Chicago and an hour and a bit west of Indianapolis, Indiana. I work full time as a medical transcriptionist and I'm sooo lucky to be able to work at home. I have a studio/office that I love and am so thankful for. Scrapbooking is my passion. I've been scrapbooking for 14 years, since I attended a Creative Memories party. I incorporate scrapbooking into my life every day. If I'm not putting a page together, I'm sketching one out or I'm organizing my supplies or I'm looking at my notebook of future projects or blogs that inspire me. I love that my style has evolved over the years and continues to do so. I love the journaling part of scrapbooking, telling a story, and many times I have to trim the journaling down or rearrange a layout 10 different times to get it all to fit! My style is sort of hard to describe. I don't think I fit into a category such as "clean and simple" or "shabby chic" or whatever. Sometimes my pages are clean and simple and sometimes they're 90% journaling and sometimes they're all flowery and blingy, so I don't know what to call myself! I love bling and jewels and glittery stuff on my pages. My favorite product is probably Stickles! Anyway, I scrapbook because I can't NOT scrapbook. It's my thing. It's what I do. I would love it if you'd come visit me at my blog My Scrapbook Life.

My name is Carolina Garrido and I have been at Practical Scrappers since May 2010. I am originally from Argentina and lived there all my life until in 2003 I met my husband, who is Peruvian, and we moved to Libya, where was offered a job. We lived there for 6 years, and our daughter was born there, becoming the first African member for the family for many generations (at some point in the past there must have been another one, how far back, I don't know!!!!) and the first Argentinian to be born in Libya. Last year we moved to Trinidad and Tobago, and we are enjoying every second in this fabulous green island.

I have always been crafty, but once I discovered scrapbooking, it became an obsession. I am very lucky at the moment to have a comfy (though always messy) scrap room and lots of time to scrap. I am a very slow scrapper, though, so most projects take me ages! You can see more of my work in my blog, Scrapping Nomad. It would be great if you could visit and say hi!

Hello! My name is Sue Althouse and I currently live in southeastern Michigan with my husband of 30 years and two spoiled cats. I grew up in Ohio and all my family still live there, so I am truly a Buckeye at heart. We have a grown son who is married. My day job is teaching piano lessons, something I have been doing for over 25 years. I love working from home!

I started scrapbooking in 1999 after we took a trip to Israel and Egypt and came home with a plethora of pictures and memories. I knew I wanted to do something more than slap pictures in an album. So I attended my first Creative Memories party and as the saying goes, the rest is history! My preferred scrapping style is clean, colorful and classic. I'm a big fan of grids, shapes and white space. I love the variety of projects available here at Practical Scrappers and all the styles represented!

When I'm not teaching piano or scrapping, you might find me reading, knitting, watching NCIS, or rooting for my beloved Ohio State Buckeyes or Detroit Tigers - sometimes doing several of these at once! I'm thrilled to be a part of the team here at Practical Scrappers, and hope you'll also visit me on my blog at: http://suealthouse.blogspot.com/

Hi, Crafters! I'm Jayma. I recently moved to Seattle from SoCal and LOVE my new city. I am a freelance marketing specialist and editor, also searching for a full-time job...but when I'm not on the job hunt I'm crafting! I spread my love of papercrafting as a Close to my Heart Consultant and through my blog, I truly believe CTMH has some of the best scrapping and stamping products on the market! I love Practical Scrappers because, well, I'm practical. I love that the challenges are totally doable and help me use up my stash.
I've been married for 5 years...my hubby and I met while working at Starbucks together in college. Mommy to my 3 fur-babies: the best Husky/German Shepherd you've ever met and 2 kitties. Auntie to 2 little ones who I adore but now live too far from. Hoping for kids of my own soon. Love snowboarding, scrapbooking, cardmaking, cooking, graphic design...pretty much anything where I get to be creative.
Learn more about Jayma on her blog: Playing With Paper.

Hi! I'm Brenda, and I've been scrapping for about 13 years, and have been a Practical Scrapper designer for almost a year and half now. I love being a part of this team of designers, with such varied styles and interests - and I love seeing everyone's take on all the challenges.
My favorite subjects are my family, especially my two-year-old granddaughter, and travel photos from motorcycle trips that DH and I take. I've been the family "shutterbug" ever since I got my first Polaroid camera on my 12th birthday, so scrapbooking is just a perfect hobby for me. It's a great way to have fun, feel creative, and create something that (hopefully) will be meaningful for my family.

I'm Julie Koets, a fresh face designer with Practical Scrappers since October 2011. I live in Northern Indiana with my husband and two sons and work full time in the social services field. A lifelong crafter, I started scrapbooking about 12 years ago and love capturing family memories and "telling our story" through the pages of my albums. Being a frugal scrapbooker, I especially enjoy making the most of my supplies and using non-traditional items on scrapbook layouts. In addition to scrapbooking, I enjoy baking, camping, and DIY projects. Check out my blog, Crafty Goodness, to see more of my work.

Hi! My name is Dyane, I'm a Practical Scrapper Fresh Face Designer since November 2011. I'm happily married. And I'm a stay at home mom with my daughter that I heart so much.^_^

I enjoyed making cards most of the time, but I do make scrapbooking layouts from time to time, as well as altering projects.

I'm pretty flexible in making my projects, but my crafting style is pretty clean and simple with a splash or touch of chic on it.

I'm so glad to be part of Practical Scrapper, every topic and projects shared here are amazing.

If you like to see more of my projects, you can visit my blog at http://bochscreations.blogspot.com/

Hello! My name is Rachel Kokes, and I am a Practical Scrappers Fresh Face Designer! I joined the team in November of 2011. I live in Colorado with my military husband, and two children-a five year old daughter, and an almost two year old son. I became a stay-at-home mom last year (although I still work every once in a while), and am really enjoying staying home with my kids and having more time to craft!

I am primarily a cardmaker, but enjoy making layouts too. I would describe my style as simple-with a twist. I am addicted to: my Silhouette, anything Echo Park, Pinterest, and love to eat cherry sours while crafting. :) This next year I am looking forward to starting Project Life-should be fun! I love Practical Scrappers because I enjoy seeing so many unique ideas and styles-all in one place. You can find out more about me on my blog at: creativekokes.wordpress.com.

Hello there, I'm Kristy Smith and I'm a Practical Scrappers Fresh Face Designer! I've been with the Design Team since November of 2011, and I'm so glad to be a part of this amazing group of designers! I am 28 years old from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania with my husband and little puppy, Lucky! I'm a math teacher by day, and a card designer by night! My style is fun, bright, and clean! I'm always looking for new products and techniques to highlight, as well as ways to use up my stash in creative ways! This is what originally drew me to Practical Scrappers, and I've been hooked ever since! =D You can visit my blog, Kristy's Crafts, to check out my favorite products and designs!

Hi everyone, my name is Fern Riley and although I have lived in 3 different states I've lived here in Texas the longest, therefore consider myself to be a Texan... I have been married almost 35 years to my wonderful husband and we have 2 married children and 3 grandchildren, and I just found out on Christmas day that we have another one on the way!!! I was originally on the Practical Scrappers Design Team back in January, 2010, but a little thing called work got in the way. I was able to retire the first of 2011 and so excited to come back to the team in April, 2011. One of the reasons I love it here is because we have something going on practically everyday and the inspiration from the Design Team is so amazing and versatile. My favorite subjects to scrap are my grandchildren and my style would be considered Vintage/Grungy/Shabby Chic. I would love for you to stop by my blog at Fern's Creations from the heart (http://texasstampinmamaw.blogspot.com/

Practical scrapper Caz

Hi there i am Caz and i have been part of the Practical Scrappers design team since the start of 2010 though i had a break while i was back at college. I was super excited to be allowed back on the team as everyone is just so nice and its a lovely team to be part of.

I really am a practical scrapper, i pretty much don't have any stash, i buy from a monthly kit club (Studio Calico) and i use what i buy each month for me having to much product really overwhelms me, it makes me feel as if i am behind. Don't get me wrong i do have a lot of tools and things like stamps/inks/mist but they are things we use every day so that's fine with me.

I discovered scrap booking in May of 2009 and have not looked back since then, i really am addicted and i do something every day, even if it is only looking for inspiration. I have recently started project life and really loving it and i also love to make mini albums they are just a great way to document a trip or an occasion i think.

I am married to an awesome man called Gary and we have been together 13 years, we have a beautiful 5 year old daughter Lucy who I'm sure you have all seen in my pages. I work part time in real estate but I'm really more of a SAHM

I would love it if you dropped by my blog and said hi :)

Hi! I'm Cathy and I just joined the Practical Scrappers Team in December. My favorite part of being part of this amazing team is that we all have different styles and we all love different manufacturers; which makes this blog the perfect place for the readers and fans.

A little about me, I recently sold my scrapbook store in Rapid City, SD after 4 years in the business. My husband found his dream job on the cold prairie of Aberdeen, SD and we reclocated here in September. I am enjoying my new found freedom by designing and playing in my scrap room most days. I love it! We have two kids, Alex and Maxenzi and three hunting dogs, all of which are super spoiled! You can follow my scrapping adventures here at altered playground

Hello! I´m Pia Åstrand from Sweden. I think I´m considered as one of the "oldies" here at Practical Scrappers. I´ve been on the design team since May 2010 and how fast time flies! It´s good though to know that when you have fun - time flies!

I´m married and have two boys and we live in a typical Swedish house built in 1909. We have a big garden and live near the nature. We love taking long walks in the woods, and yes the camera is with me almost every time.

My scrapbooking style changes from every page I make. I really love everything distressed and worn out and you propably could guess that Tim Holtz is one of my gurus! lol! My favorite technique is to doodle and use my pens and paints in my creations. I mainly make layouts and cards but recently discovered art journaling. I love it!

If you want to see more of my scrapbooking, visit my blog: HERE!

Hi! My name is Ann Jobes and I am thrilled to be part of the Practical Scrappers design team. I believe that my time here will allow me to inspire the Practical Scrappers blog readers, and that I will also learn a few things from my fellow DT members - I am so honoured to be among them! I live in a small town, located in Mennonite country, about 1.5 hours outside of Toronto, Ontario. My family consists of my sweet hubby of 13 years, Brian, and our beautiful inside and out daughter, Sarah, along with 2 fuzz balls of the barking variety. I love the variety of topics that Practical Scrappers shares on the blog, and one of my favourite features is Challenge Me Tuesday because it inspires me to get creative without a long time for deliberation!

I'm from sunny Queensland, Australia where I have my very own scrap studio to play in as I please. Usually you'll find me up late sparkling, cutting and running my ATG hot, as my husband of 11 years and two children sleep blissfully unaware! I have loved crafting as long as I can remember. I'll try my hand at anything and love a good challenge. I do try to be frugal though and save money where I can. I try to stretch my supplies as far as I can and recycle - that's why I love to alter! Stand still long enough at my place and you could end up with an entirely new look! I've evolved from only creating layouts to now creating cards, altered items, mini albums, stationary and other gift-able items.

You can find my creations here and at my blog Paper Tree

Hello, I am Christa Uttley and I live in a small Canadian town with my two wonderful kids, loving husband of 18 years and our Boston Terrier, Bo-Bo. My scrappy world is not complete without lots of paper in every colour of the rainbow, my butterfly punches and great photographs! I love Practical Scrappers weekly Challenge Me Tuesday feature as it gets my creativity flowing!

Hi all! I'm Michelle Roycroft and I love being with Practical Scrappers. I've lived in Texas all my life and am married with 2 kids - a 4 year old girl, and a 5 month old boy. I've been scrapping hard and heavy since the birth of my daughter and now with a new baby in the house, I have even more stuff to scrap about! My scrapping style is clean and simple, mainly because I'm a minimalist at heart, but also because I like having the focus of my pages be the pictures and stories that I want to remember. Don't get me wrong, though, I love to drool over those beautifully detailed layouts that I'm always seeing!

I love being able to get on Practical Scrappers and get inspiration for all different types of layouts and projects. The site and team push me to try new techniques that I otherwise wouldn't and help me spice up my albums!

More about my hectic life and scrapbook layouts can be found on my blog, Remember This....

My name is Aymee Gandy. I am 28 years old and am originally from a small town in Alabama. I currently reside in Pennsylvania with my wonderful husband of 9 years, Brandon. I am a homemaker, or domestic diva as I like to say, and my husband works for the railroad. At the present, we do not have any children but are hoping to start a family soon. I began scrapbooking in 2004 and have been addicted ever since. I love to create layouts, cards, altered art, mini albums, tags, and home decor'. Scrapbooking is the one true passion in my life and I cannot ever imagine not creating on a routine basis. I have had the honor of working on several design teams and being published both online and in printed magazines. When I am not scrapbooking, I enjoy cooking, traveling, reading, decorating my home, and enjoying down time with my family.

Monika Wright

Even though she's always loved crafting handmade cards and gifts, it wasn't until a dear friend of 33 years gave her some scrapbooking supplies for a birthday gift that Monika began documenting and recording all the stories and memories that she had been holding close to her heart. Soon after, her husband surprised her with a Canon 40D and that's when things started getting serious! Now that she's seen the light, you will find Monika creating art prints, mini books and layouts. That's when her three children aren't asking questions, using her markers, sneaking pretty paper or stealing her glue sticks. She serves on several creative teams and has been featured on numerous blogs and in print and online magazines and eBooks. She also runs an etsy store! ILOVEITALL stocks a cheerful array of subway art prints & motivational typography posters, custom & personalized home decor and note cards, mini books & journals as well as an eclectic selection of cool crafting supplies. Monika shares news of special sales & coupon codes on her blog iloveitallwithmonikawright.com and Facebook page.

Practical Scrapper Audrey. I am currently a SAHM to a 2 1/2 year old little girl named Charlotte and a 6 month old little boy named Kyler. I am a former high school Biology teacher, but I love my job as a SAHM much more! We live just outside Houston, TX, and moved here from central NY about 4 1/2 years ago. I miss my family and friends in NY, but don't miss all the snow! I love hard rock and movies and the color green. I watch Food Network all the time and "pretend" to be able to cook. My days are mostly filled with domestic duties and playing and taking care of the kiddos, but I give myself a couple hours every night to spend some time scrapping!

I started scrapbooking about 7 years ago after I threw a super fun Halloween costume party at my house. I had so many photos, and had such a great time that I wanted to make an album. Well after my first trip to the scrapbooking aisle at the craft store, I was hooked! My style has evolved tremendously over the years. I would call my current style trendy and contemporary: I like to use the latest and greatest products and the newest techniques. Although I like to try new things all the time, there are some elements that you can see on almost all my pages: machine or hand stitching, a strong “rule of threes”, and a thin black pen that I use for outlining photos and handwriting my journaling. I tend to scrap by manufacturer, using coordinating lines. I currently design for Glitz Designs (manu), Memorable Seasons (online store), Birds of a Feather (kit club), and Sketchy Thursdays (blog). I have designed on several other teams, too, including SEI, Clip It Up, GDT for American Crafts and Little Yellow Bicycle, Scrapbook Circle Kit Club, Magpie Club, and Scrapbook Express.

I frequently update my blog with pages and projects. Please stop by: http://audreysreflection.blogspot.com

We have a few gals who are on vacation or brand new and we haven't created a bio for them yet, but here's there names and blog links!
Liz Chidester
Jodi Wilton
Claude Campeau
Monique Fox
Angie Gutshall

Now how was that for list of designers? Such talented and amazing women here hope you enjoyed getting to know us all all little better. Don't forget to check out the side bar that is updated with all of our current calls. We'd love to see what all you readers are up to!

Pin It **Designer projects are not always linked in our posts, but you can always find their blogs in our sidebar or in the staff tab**

Winter Layouts

2012-01-04T10:39:00.001-06:00

It's winter...or so I hear...our Illinois weather has been dry and mostly warm :). Kinda hard to get into a snow layout when you've barely had any! Maybe you've had a lot and you are ready for some inspiration! Here's some fabulous layouts from our readers and designers to get your creative juices flowing!

Practical Scrapper Sue

Practical Scrapper Christine

Practical Scrapper Pia

Addie Otto

Practical Scrapper Christine

Practical Scrapper Cathy

Practical Scrappers Christa

Practical Scrapper Fern

Jen Fletcher

Practical Scrapper Michelle

Practical Scrapper Christine

Practical Scrapper Dyane

Pin It **Designer projects are not always linked in our posts, but you can always find their blogs in our sidebar or in the staff tab**

Challenge Me Tuesday: 2011 Trends

2012-01-02T23:10:00.001-06:00

Happy New Year scrappy pals! We're back to start 2012 out with a little homage to 2011. This week we'd like to see you incorporate trends from 2011 into your projects. Trends include, but are not limited to things like pins, banners, flags, chevrons, twine, mists- you know the kind of stuff we've been featuring here throughout the year. If you want to add a twist, use them on a layout or card with a New Year theme. Send your creations to: practicalscrapperlayouts@gmail(dot)com with a blog link, for a chance to be featured here next week.

Here are some samples from our awesome Design Team to get you started:

Banners and Flags

Practical Scrapper Cathy

Handmade flowers and stitching

Practical Scrapper Christa

Pinwheels, baker's twine, and machine stitching
Practical Scrapper Julie

Chevrons, doilies, and twine

Practical Scrapper Rachel

Banners, medallions and twine

Practical Scrapper Brenda

Pin It **Designer projects are not always linked in our posts, but you can always find their blogs in our sidebar or in the staff tab**