Organization – Storing Unmounted Stamps

As I mentioned in earlier articles, I am starting some specific articles, dealing with storage and organization of different types of scrapbook supplies. Not all scrapbookers use rubber stamps. And even those that do, might choose not to use unmounted rubber stamps. However, many scrapbookers find it challenging to store these little pieces of rubber. Never fear, there are solutions out there. It is about figuring out what works for you, and which system will allow you to get the most use out of your unmounted stamps. While there are several binders and systems, made exclusively for storing unmounted stamps, … Continue reading

Stampin’ Up Profile and Interview (3)

We have been talking to Stampin’ Up! demonstrator, Kimberlee Patton about the company and her home business. Stampin’ Up! is a direct sales company offering card making, crafting and scrapbooking supplies through home sales, parties and catalog orders. Here is the last part of the three part interview. Nicole: Are you allowed to have a website and/or sell online? Kimberlee: We are able to set up a website through the company. Our catalogs are now online, but it’s not possible to order online. The only thing we are allowed to sell online is retired products or personal creations, such as … Continue reading

Stampin’ Up! Profile and Interview (1)

Long ago I discovered Stampin’ Up! when I was invited to a consultants house for a party. Like anyone invited to something like that, I was sceptical, all the way until I saw the products. I was sold. The original designs of Stampin’ Up! made me feel creative and they were so beautiful. Stampin’ Up! is known for its exclusive line of decorative stamp sets and accessories for greeting cards, scrapbooking, craft projects and home decor! Founded in 1988, they have brought a wide assortment of stamp images, techniques, and designs to the crafting world, and later the scrapbooking world. … Continue reading

Close To My Heart Profile and Interview (2)

Nicole: Hi Theresa, I know that Close To My Heart has always been known for their stamps, but what other types of products does Close To My Heart offer to customers? Theresa: Our My Acrylix™ System is definitely our most popular product, you’re right about that. It’s how Jeanette got started in all this. I think our catalog is really unique and cool, because it serves as a huge idea book in addition to showcasing our products. Another cool thing we offer is that we have these really beautiful papers and we have ink and markers that completely match them. … Continue reading

Close To My Heart Profile and Interview (1)

Close to My Heart has always been one of my favorite scrapbook related companies. I don’t know if it’s because it is one of the first experiences I ever had with rubber stamps and I bought dozens, or if it’s because I love everything they offer and I’m still buying dozens! The story of Close to My Heart and it’s beginnings is an interesting one, actually. The founder, Jeanette Lynton, started her first direct-sales decorative stamp business in 1984. This business venture eventually turned into the former company D.O.T.S. (Dozens of Terrific Stamps). This was when I was introduced to … Continue reading

Cheap Paper Casting In Your Scrapbooks

There is a cheap way to include paper castings in your scrapbooks without breaking the bank. Toilet paper. Using toilet paper in my scrapbooks? No, I’m not crazy. But try out this fun technique and see how much fun it can be. The first thing that is important to know, is that there is no one particular brand of toilet paper that you have to use. The cheap kinds work just as well as their more expensive counterparts. You will need around 5 to about 8 squares of toilet paper. Stack them on top of each other. Look through your … Continue reading

Cleaning Your Rubber Stamps

Keeping your rubber stamps clean is important. You want to make sure that the residue is gone and that your images come out crisp and clear each time you use the stamp. But what is the best product to clean your stamps with? That’s really a matter of choice. But here are a few options for you to try and see what you like best. Baby Wipes Many scrapbookers use baby wipes to clean their stamps. Baby wipes offer an affordable cleaner as well as being easy to find and easy to use. You can just dab the stamp on … Continue reading

Making Your Own Rubber Stamp Ink

Since I recently explained how to make your own rubber stamps at home, I thought it might be beneficial to include a few ways that you can create rubber stamping ink at home as well. I’ve tried it, and was pleased with the end results. It saves money in the long run, and you can make as much or as little as you need. In addition you can mix colors and create some that you might not be able to purchase at the store. Or you can match the ink color to colors in the layout you are working on. … Continue reading

Making Your Own Rubber Stamps

It’s really not that difficult to make your own rubber stamps. This is a fun project for older children to do, and definitely for the scrapbooker. To begin, you will need to choose what you’d like to have on the stamp. Choose a pattern you can trace, (a black and white image with wide, bold lines is usually better), or simply draw from scratch. I chose letters because I wanted to make some fun letter stamps, but you can do anything – a symbol, your name, a character or an object. Use tracing paper and a soft lead pencil to … Continue reading