Scrapbook Dreams

The blog is moving!

2011-12-29T10:08:00.001+13:00

Hi everyone

As you can see I haven’t been managing to keep this blog updated very well so from 1st January 2012 I’ll be combining my own blog with Scrapbook Dreams posts as well.

To see all the challenges… ATC swaps… classes etc please go HERE!

There will be lots of things happening on my blog in the coming year so why not become a follower so that you don’t miss out on all the good stuff!

Happy Holidays everyone xx

Sunday Classes–May 15th

2011-05-10T06:32:00.001+12:00

Our fortnightly Sunday classes (held in Rotorua) are starting this weekend!

Graphic 45 Curtain Call Card Collection - 9am-12pm $30 Max 5 people

During this class you'll learn some clever cutting and folding techniques for making your cards stand out from the rest. Combine that with the gorgeous papers from Graphic 45's Curtain Call Collection and you're onto a sure fire winner!

It's all in the details layout class - 1pm-3pm $20 Max 5 people

This layout class combines lots of little details to create an eye catching layout. Learn how to use edge punches and torn edges effectively along with creating your own transparency embellishments.

Please bring a 5 x 7 photo

If you are interested in either of these classes you can either email me (scrapbookdreams@xtra.co.nz) or phone me (07 348 9588) to book your place in any of the classes. Please note that a $10 deposit is required for ALL classes to secure your place.

April Challenge winner! & May Challenge #1

2011-05-01T19:00:00.001+12:00

Hi everyone :)

This month has been absolutely fantastic for challenge entries! Thank you all so much for participating :)

It’s been a tough job choosing a winner but the decision has now been made… congratulations to Vicki who has created these gorgeous layouts!

For the numbers challenge:

For the sketch challenge:

You’ll be able to see more of Vicki’s gorgeous creations when she is our Guest Designer in June :)

May Challenge #1

The first challenge for this month is.... ACTION PHOTOS! This is a great time to grab out your photos of someone 'doing' something! I might be sports... or it could be people working... or it might even be your cat catching a mouse LOL

My wee niece Jessy Mac is a total adrenalin junkie... the higher or faster everything happens the better in her opinion! Earlier this year she went to the pools in Perth with her Uncle Robbie and luckily Auntie Ginny had the camera close by to capture some awesome photos of all the action!

Here’s my layout:

Our Guest Designer Jane joined in on the water theme too creating a stunning layout featuring her son Jack snorkelling at Goat Island:

So now it's YOUR turn to get out your action photos and create a layout... then all you have to do is upload it into the gallery by midnight 31st May and it could be you who is our Guest Designer in July!

Happy Scrapping… Shell

Scrappy things :)

2011-04-26T13:39:00.001+12:00

Hi everyone

Scrapbook Dreams has been a hive of industry and there’s so much creativity to share with you.

March had us doing two different challenges and it was pretty difficult to select a winner but this layout really stood out for the ‘LARGE LETTERS’ challenge:

Jane (aka Tilly) created this layout featuring her son Jack and it was so eye catching…. plus it’s a great example for creating teen layouts! You’ll be seeing more of Jane’s work soon when she is our Guest Designer for the May challenges.

This month we’ve got two more challenges running… you can enter one or both and each layout you enter gives you another chance to become a Guest Designer!

First up we’ve got the ‘NUMBERS’ challenge… simply create a layout featuring numbers someone… maybe in your title, or on the patterned paper, or maybe as an embellishment.

I created this layout featuring a photo of me and my friend Esther using ‘text speak’ and I love how it turned out:

Our Guest Designer this month is Lianne and she created this layout to share with all of us:

Our second challenge this month is based on a sketch from Page Maps and it’s so easy to work with:

I created a double layout using this sketch about a recent trip to Waiouru Army Museum with my class from school:

Lianne also used this sketch to create a layout titled “Glimpses of a walk”:

Thanks Lianne for being our Guest Designer this month! If you’d like the opportunity to be a Guest Designer for Scrapbook Dreams then all you need to do is create a layout for either of these challenges and upload it into our April gallery by Midnight 30th April.

Happy Scrapping everyone xxx

Scrapbook Dreams Retreat

2011-03-09T07:48:00.001+13:00

We had our retreat on the weekend and it was AWESOME! What a great bunch of ladies… and the venue was fantastic too!

We had an awesome scrapping area… lots of space, varnished floors so we didn’t have to worry about making a mess… and did I mention LOADS of space?

On the Friday night we mixed and mingled, everyone got their challenge packs and we settled in for the night. We had great accommodation and meals at the venue… it really was a one stop shop!

On Saturday morning we got started on the classes. Our first class involved a bit of maths, lots of cutting, and using the Cuttlebugs to create texture on our pages. I really love how differently everyone's layouts turned out!

After some yummy morning tea provided by Mum (Thanks Mum!!) we moved onto class #2. This time we created texture with scoring, folding, tearing and cutting. The Graphic 45 papers we used were absolutely gorgeous! Here’s the results of that class:

The final class of the day was MESSY but the results were really worth it! We got busy with Adirondack Colour Wash sprays and some fantastic paper from Pink Paislee to come up with these layouts:

The rest of the day was spent scrapping, chatting and laughing…. and it was great! After dinner our ‘live entertainment’ arrived. Tautu played his guitar and sang to us and most of us joined right in.

If you’re wondering about the hat it’s because we had a ‘Mad Hatters’ evening. It was so neat to see everyone get involved. Here’s our winners from the hat competition… Gay from Waihi Beach (in the chook costume) and Lyn from Auckland (wearing the hat with all the chocolate)… and YES she brought her hat around so we could all share it!!

In all her travels Esther managed to find me the perfect Scrapbook Dreams hat complete with a veil LOL

She also turned up with a few more hats and when she was being cheeky I managed to get this photo of her and Mikayla… talk about laugh!!

As I mentioned earlier, everyone received a challenge pack and this one featured some of the latest papers from Little Yellow Bicycle’s Twig collection… gorgeous papers! Here’s the results of the challenge:

I asked Tautu to judge this one and after looking at them all for a VERY long time he said "I've picked my 5 favourites"... unfortunately for him he had to narrow it down to just one... and after more deliberation chose this layout by Lyn E (Auckland):

Lyn won herself a lovely 'pamper pack' to enjoy.... chocolate, wine, candles and bubble bath... what more could a girl want??

Thankfully Mum brought over her tripod on Saturday and we got a great group photo! Here’s all our scrapbooking friends… some of us had very messy hands as we’d just finished our third class LOL

Thank you so much to everyone who came… it was a fantastic weekend filled with lots of creativity, friendship and laughs… and YES we’ll be doing it again later on this year!

Happy New Year!

2011-01-14T14:22:00.001+13:00

My goodness I’ve been a bad blogger! December rushed by in a flurry of activity and all of a sudden we’re half way through January. Wherever you are I hope you are having a safe, happy and creative start to 2011! There have been so many news stories lately about tragedies and if you’ve been affected my thoughts go out to you.

We’ve had a very busy start to 2011 and today we’re announcing our Scrapbook Dreams January Kit!

There is so much paper in this kit that you’ll be able to make lots of layouts! I have created 1 double and 4 single layouts… and the paper was so easy to work with!

Here’s my layouts beginning with the double layout:

As you can see you’ll be able to achieve lots of different ‘looks’ using the same kit! Want to know what you get in the kit?

The kit includes:

Basic Grey - Jovial - 12 x 12 papers

Frosted Window
Coal
Flannel Pyjamas
Shopkeeper
Tartan Plaid

Basic Grey - Jovial - 6 x 12

Merry Maker
Crushed Velvet

Teresa Collins - 6 x 12

Noel - Music Sheet
Giving Thanks - Diamonds

Cardstock - 12 x 12

3 x Oyster Fleck
Bazzill - Ebony
Bazzill - French Vanilla

Embellishments

Jovial Alphabet Stickers - 12 x 12 sheet
Merry Christmas Ribbon - 40cm
Gold Mesh Ribbon - 40cm
Prima flowers and leaves
Jenni Bowlin Bingo Card - will vary between kits
Zva Crystals - 1 row
4 x mini Bronze Brads

The kit also comes with photos and instructions for the layouts I have created with this kit :)

Don’t miss out… order it HERE!

Hello November!

2010-11-02T20:13:00.002+13:00

November has arrived and with it comes the warmer weather and longer days. There's only 6 weeks of school left for primary schools... and for Miss Krystal there is less than two weeks of her school left! Our family is in for some BIG changes next year as Krystal heads off to Waikato University. Interesting times!

The 'faceless' challenge

The October challenge was to create a layout that didn't show any faces... and we had a fantastic response! There was a real flurry of uploads over the weekend... and I just want to say a big THANK YOU to everyone who entered the 'faceless' challenge! There was so many different approaches to this challenge and the October gallery looks AWESOME!

The draw has now been done and I'm very happy to announce that the winner of this months challenge is... Jenny!

Love all the colours you've used Jenny... and those cocktails look really delicious!

You have won yourself a $20 voucher to spend in the shop (excludes Magnolia stamps) as well as the opportunity to be our guest designer for December! CONGRATULATIONS :)

November Layout Challenge

This months challenge will have you grabbing out all your punches and dies... the challenge is to use your die cuts in a creative way! We all know that we can punch or die cut a shape... but what about altering it a bit before adding it to your layout.

You might try inking or painting them, adding glitter, stickles, kindy glitz, layering, scrunching, stitching etc We're looking for all the different things you can do with your die cuts!

Sherryn is our Guest Designer this month and she's come up with a lovely layout! Sherryn used one of this months sketches. She's used die cuts and punches which she's embossed and then she got busy scrunching on the flower. She's also used the negative lettering on her title which looks fantastic!

Thanks Sherryn for being our Guest Designer for October!!

For my layout I got out some old photos from a trip the girls and I did to Kerikeri a few years ago. Although it was actually spring, the orange of Mikayla's shirt inspired me to use autumn colours.

The leaves were cut using one of Tim Holtz' dies and then I've inked, stamped, embossed and added dimensional magic to some of them.

So now it's YOUR turn! Grab out those die cuts and alter them... then add them to a layout and upload them into the November gallery before Midnight on 30th November and it could be you who wins a $20 shop voucher and the opportunity to be our Guest Designer for December!!

BONUS! This month we'll also be picking out 4 random winners... one per week... to receive some Tim Holtz die cut shapes... so make sure you get your layouts loaded up into the gallery!

Teresa Collins is in stock!

2010-10-28T07:30:00.001+13:00

Teresa Collins products have arrived in the store and we’ve got two different collections in stock… (Click on any of the images for more details and prices)

First is the Giving Thanks range featuring gorgeous papers and fantastic acrylic stamps:

Gratitude Notes:

Diamonds:

Calendar:

Acrylic Stamps:

And then we’ve got the Noel collection including a set of chipboard embellishments another set of acrylic stamps!

Red Damask:

Black Damask:

Cards & Notes:

Countdown:

Definitions:

Sheet Music:

Stripes:

Chipboard embellishment sheet:

Acrylic Stamps:

And check out these fantastic crown charms!

You can find all of these products in our online shop… and remember that you can add them to your ‘pack a box’ too!

Are you after a great special?

2010-10-23T11:15:00.001+13:00

At our recent retreat we provided a challenge pack… and the feedback was GREAT! Everyone really loved the papers in the pack and there were some amazing layout and cards created over the weekend.

The winner of the challenge pack was Gwenda with this stunning layout:

If you like this layout and would like to have some of the same papers then you’ll love this kit!

We’ve included all 4 of the papers from the challenge pack along with one more to bring you a great paper kit! PLUS you’ll save money…. recommended retail on these items is $10 but buy one of our kits for only $8.50 :)

Do you want to see the papers??? Here you go:

Cheerful:

Fantasy:

Make Me Smile:

Glee:

and Strips:

This paper is double-sided and super easy to work with! You can grab yours HERE!

October Challenge

2010-10-19T17:01:00.001+13:00

The month of October is really flying by but there’s still a couple of weeks left to enter the October Challenge.

We've got a cool challenge for you this month! You'll need photos for your layout but there's a catch... we don't want to see any faces! That's right... this month the challenge is to use one of the sketches provided and do a 'faceless' layout.

Of course you could do a layout that doesn't have an actual person in it... maybe a layout about your garden etc. But what about challenging yourself to create a layout featuring photos taken from behind someone... or of their hands... or maybe even their toes!

Our Guest Designer Erin created this layout (using one of the sketches in the October gallery) focussed on her grandchildren watching a ‘scary’ movie on TV:

Thanks for being our Guest Designer Erin!

On the weekend I finally got some creative time to get a layout done… this one focussed on my niece and her ‘static’ hair from jumping on the trampoline:

I love this photo of her… thank goodness my sister had her camera handy!

So now it's YOUR turn! Create your layout using 'faceless' photos and upload it into the October gallery by Midnight 31st October and it could be you who wins the $20 shop voucher (excludes Magnolia Stamps) and the opportunity to be the Guest Designer for December!

Why not give it a go? We’d love to see YOUR layouts!!

The Retreat was AWESOME!!

2010-09-30T13:58:00.001+13:00

Last weekend we were all at the Bugs & Butterflies Scrap Retreat at Waihi Beach… and it was fantastic!

If you can imagine a whole room of ladies with all their scrapping supplies, classes, GREAT food, leisurely shopping and browsing then you’ll have some idea of what it was like :)

And if not… then here’s some photos taken during the weekend:

View Full Album

Thank you to all the awesome ladies who attended the retreat… you can be sure that there will be another retreat in the future!

September Challenge

2010-09-07T19:17:00.001+12:00

Hi everyone :)

Our latest newsletter went out via email tonight so keep an eye out for it. Our household has been thinking about the residents of Christchurch quite frequently since the earthquakes began on Saturday morning as the girls uncle and cousins live down there. Thankfully we’ve been able to catch up via phone so at least we know they’re all safe! If you’ve been hit by the earthquakes and the after shocks, our thoughts are with you.

The August challenge was a 1, 2, 3 challenge… 1 photo, 2 pieces of paper & 3 embellishments!

We had some great entries and everyone really made use of their double sided papers. The draw was done last week and the winner is Erin with this gorgeous layout featuring paper weaving and embellishments chosen to reflect the bridesmaid’s outfit: Congratulations Erin!!! You have won a $20 voucher to spend in the shop as well as the opportunity to be our Guest Designer for October!

And now onto the September challenge… this month Tricia is our Guest Designer and she’s come up with a “LOVEly” theme… all you have to do is create a layout using hearts!

Here’s Tricia’s layout that she created for us: I love all the patterned paper and the large stitched heart really brings the whole layout together! Thanks Tricia for being our Guest Designer :)

So now it’s YOUR turn! Create a layout featuring hearts and upload it into the September gallery by Midnight 30th September and it could be you who wins the $20 shop voucher (excludes Magnolia stamps) and the opportunity to be the Guest Designer for November!

Only 24 more days to go!!

2010-09-01T07:35:00.001+12:00

Wow! The time is really ticking along and there’s only 24 more days to go until the Bugs & Butterflies Scrap Retreat!

We’ve got an awesome weekend lined up for you! Today we’ve got the first of our sneak peeks…. it’s one of our layout classes! In this class we’re going to be using the same papers to complete two layouts! There’s loads of techniques included in this class too!!

We’ve got 3 spaces left so if you’re thinking about coming then get in touch via email :)

July Challenge Winner announced!

2010-08-02T19:20:00.001+12:00

Tonight we did the draw for the July challenge which was to create a layout based on an everyday occurrence in your life :)

The winner is Tricia with this gorgeous layout!Tricia has won herself a $20 voucher to spend in the Scrapbook Dreams shop as well as the opportunity to be the Guest Designer for September!

Congratulations Tricia!

Bugs & Butterflies SCRAP RETREAT!

2010-07-25T09:20:00.002+12:00

24th - 26th September 2010 - Waihi Beach

The cost of the camp is $150 and includes:

Two nights accomodation (Friday & Saturday)
Friday - Supper
Saturday - Breakfast, lunch & dinner, morning & afternoon tea as well as supper
Sunday - Breakfast & morning tea
Three classes - two layout classes and one technique class
Prizes
Retreat goodie bag
Scrapbooking supplies available from Scrapbook Dreams & Creative Bugs
EFTPOS available during the entire weekend

Registration and Payment information:

A $50 deposit is required on registration to secure your place for the retreat. The balance of $100 will be required to 1 September 2010. You can either transfer your payment via direct credit or pay by cheque. Details on the Registration form.

Once we have received your deposit and registration form we will confirm by e-mail that your place has been secured for the retreat.

CANCELLATION POLICY - PLEASE READ CAREFULLY

AQ $50 cancellation fee will apply to all cancellations. A $100 cancellation fee will apply to all cancellations after 9 September 2010. No refunds will be given to any cancellation made less than 4 days prior to the event or for not attending the event without notification.

HOW DO I REGISTER?

Please email Shell at scrapbookdreams@xtra.co.nz

It's going to be a Scraptastic weekend!

It’s our 2nd birthday… and we’re celebrating!

2010-06-12T10:54:00.001+12:00

This weekend marks Scrapbook Dreams’ 2^nd birthday! So we’ve got a few challenges for you to enter... and of course some goodies to give away!! We’ve got a layout challenge, a card challenge and a tag challenge but our first challenge is a Scavenger Hunt. All the details are contained right here... and all the answers are either in the shop, the forum or the gallery. So let the party commence!

There are 10 questions in the Scavenger Hunt. To enter simply send me an email with your 10 answers by Midnight Sunday 13^th June!

1. Who is hosting the June ATC swap?

2. What is the theme for the June challenge?

3. What is the name of the stamp I’ve been using for the Magnolia Stamps samples?

4. What was the name of the ‘ongoing project’ for 2009?

5. Where are the Magnolia stamps being shipped from?

6. Who manufactures the ‘Victoria’ clear stamp set?

7. When are we hosting the July Scraptastic?

8. What are the two types of projects I made as samples using Glitz Designs papers?

9. Who created the online tutorial for the pleated circle?

10. Which company manufactures the Funky Flower chipboard elements?

You have until Midnight tomorrow to

email me your answers!

scrapbookdreams@xtra.co.nz

Simply use the sketch below to create a layout (any size) and upload it into the 2^nd Birthday gallery by Midnight tomorrow (Sunday 13^th June)

The theme of your layout can be anything you like... and please remember that a sketch is simply a place to start. Use it to inspire your creativity!

Of course when you have a birthday you usually receive cards. For this challenge you need to select one of the sketches below and create a card using

at least 3 things from the following list:

· Buttons

· Ribbon

· Stamps

· Patterned paper

· Cardstock

· Kindy Glitz

· Bling

View Full Album

Your card does not have to be a birthday card... and remember that you can turn the sketches around to suit your own style/design.

Upload your card into the 2^nd Birthday gallery by Midnight tomorrow (Sunday 13^th June)

Our final challenge is to create a tag (any size) using this sketch:

You can make the tag to go on a present, add to a layout or card... or simply for decoration!

Upload your tag into the 2^nd Birthday gallery by Midnight tomorrow (Sunday 13^th June)

Let’s face it... we all like to get the chance to win something! Especially for creating things we enjoy!

There is a small prize for each challenge... so if you enter all 4 challenges you will get 4 chances to win!

We will put everyone’s name into a draw for each challenge entry and the name that gets pulled out of the hat will receive a $20 voucher to spend in our shop during the month of June!

** Excludes Magnolia stamps! **

Place an order in our online shop THIS weekend (by Midnight Sunday 13^th June) and go into the draw to win 20% off your entire order!

** Excludes Magnolia stamps! **

I hope you’ll join us in celebrating our birthday!

Shell xx

June challenge & blog candy winner!

2010-06-06T08:59:00.001+12:00

Hi everyone :)

Aren’t the weeks just flying by!! We kicked off another monthly challenge at Scrapbook Dreams last week. Do these words remind you of anything…. “Tonight Mathew I’m going to be…..” if they do then stay tuned for all the details.

Sometimes the theme for the monthly challenges comes from the strangest places... and this month's challenge is one of those times! Just recently I was talking to a friend about the TV programmes we used to enjoy and we came up with quite a list. There was one that I just couldn't get out of my head and so it's going to be the theme for this months challenge.

So what is the theme?? "Stars in Your Eyes"

For this months layout challenge you need to create a layout either using stars or eyes (or both if you like)!

A few years ago I did this layout about playing 'Eye Spy' with my nephew... in the days before he could spell!! Trust me... NEVER play Eye Spy with a 4 year old!Our Guest Designer Brenda has also completed a stunning layout 'staring' her wee cherub... LOVE the layout Brenda!

So now it's YOUR turn... create a layout based on the theme Stars in Your Eyes and upload it into the gallery by Midnight on June 30th and be in to win a $20 voucher to spend in our online shop PLUS the chance to be a Guest Designer for August.

Do you remember this easel card??

Thanks to those of you who became followers on this blog and left me a comment. I’ve done the ‘name out of the hat’ draw and the winner is JENNY!

Congratulations Jenny! This little easel card will be making it’s way to you on Tuesday :)

Hope everyone has a creative long weekend!

May MMM and Blog Candy :)

2010-05-16T13:37:00.002+12:00

If you’re wondering what MMM stand for it’s Mid Month Motivation. In the middle of each month we provide a MMM for you to have a go at doing something creative. Unlike our monthly challenges there’s no end date, you don’t have to put it in the gallery (although we’d LOVE to see what you make!) and there’s no prize… it’s simply for motivation :)

Just lately I’ve been noticing lots of easel cards on the web so I’ve been busy this morning creating my first easel card… and they’re ridiculously easy to make!

The finished card measures 4 1/4 inches square and I really love it. Here’s the front: The bird is made from Grungepaper which I inked and stamped :) If you look in the lower right hand corner you will see a wax seal I added too.

This is the inside of the card: I used one of my new stamps (from Stampin Up) for the sentiment and I layered that on a piece I tore from an old book. Quite by accident the text from the book reads: I sat there feeling at peace with all the world while I waited and it was grand not having to talk for a bit.

Here’s what the card looks like when it’s sitting ‘open’: I really love how it all turned out! You might be wondering about the ‘easel’ part of the card… maybe this will explain:

After making just one of these I’ve totally gotten into them so I’m sure you’ll be seeing lots more of this style of card from me in the future :)

Now if you REALLY like it here’s a couple of options for you!!

You could make your own using the tutorial I’m putting on Scrapbook Dreams.
You could WIN this particular card by becoming a follower and leaving a comment on this blog!! I'll be doing the draw next weekend :)

I hope you decide to give these cards a go!

Shell xxx

LOTS of great new products!!

2010-03-21T12:55:00.001+13:00

We’ve had a HUGE amount of new products arriving here lately… and I’m loving it every time the courier arrives :) So I’ve decided to give YOU a special too… read on to the bottom of the post!

First up we have a LUCKY ME collection from Little Yellow Bicycle:

Gorgeous lime greens and navy blues! Quite a few of the papers are double sided… and there’s also a 12 x 12 with foil accents along with a die cut page with ‘thermography’… not sure what thermography is?? Basically it’s like part of the page (in this case the edges and shamrock) have been varnished :)

Then we have some great new papers from Sassafras Lass… including the Nerdy Bird, Apple Jack and Cherry Delicious ranges!

View Full Album

We’ve got double sided 12 x 12’s (with an extra part that can be cut off to use on cards and layouts) as well as some fantastic cardstock sticker journaling blocks!

Then there’s Glitz Designs!! We have the full collection of papers from the Distressed Couture range as well as cardstock sticker titles, journaling blocks and accents along with some great rub ons!

And as if that wasn’t enough we also have some wonderful acrylic stamps!

View Full Album

And JUST IN!!! The BRAND NEW DISTRESS INK COLOURS!!!

The colours are super stunning and they really do complement the rest of the Distress Ink colours :)

Now for the best part!! Order any of the products mentioned in THIS blog post from our online shop and put “Blog” in the comment section to receive 10% of your ENTIRE order!!

March Challenge & February Winner!

2010-03-09T07:10:00.001+13:00

We had some outstanding entries into the February challenge! You can check them out in the gallery!

The winner of the February challenge is… Erin!!

Congratulations Erin!! Love the fresh spring colours you’ve used!

March Challenge

This month it’s all about multi photo layouts!

To be eligible to win this months’ prize you must create a layout using at least 4 photos!

To give you some help I’m sharing a sketch that I used for ideas for my layout:

Here’s my layout all about my nephew and his 2nd birthday cake:

As you can see from my layout, the photos do not have to be standard 6x4 photos… but there must be at least 4 of them!

New Challenge Prize!

We decided to change the challenge prize this month!

This month the prize will be a $20 voucher to spend in the shop… PLUS you have the option to be a Guest Designer for May!

So how do you get your chance to win??? Simply create a layout using at least 4 photos… and upload it into our gallery by midnight on Wednesday 31st March!

Happy Scrapping :)

January Challenge winner and February Challenge!

2010-02-07T13:17:00.001+13:00

Hi everyone :)

I’m sure lots of people are busy at the moment with school starting again! I know that our household has been busy updating school uniforms, purchasing stationery and getting classes sorted out.

January Challenge Winner!

Thanks to everyone who gave the January challenge a go and uploaded their layouts into our gallery. There are some great layouts to look at!!

The winner of the January challenge is… Nina!!

Congratulations Nina! I hope you enjoy all your scrapping goodies :)

February Challenge

This month we have another sketch challenge for you… will a lovely box of goodies for the winner!

Here’s the sketch:

Remember that the idea of sketch challenges is that you use the sketch to ‘inspire’ your creativity… you don’t have to do an exact replica of it!

My layout was actually one that I did for a friend (Esther). You know how sometimes you have photos that you want to make a layout with but the layout just won’t work??? Well Esther was having that problem with some photos of her kids playing wii so I got her to email them through to me and this is the result:

So what do you have to do to get a chance to win a great box of scrapping goodies??

Simply create a layout inspired by the February sketch… and upload it into our gallery by midnight on Sunday 28th February.

All the details were in our February newsletter… if you haven’t received our newsletter and would like to why not email me (or visit the website) so you can be added to our mailing list :)

Happy scrapping - Shell

Sale on NOW!

2010-01-22T10:51:00.001+13:00

Scrapbook Dreams is having a bit of a sale… check out these amazing bargains!

ALL Kaisercraft Albums!

5 Kids and a Dog, Buzz & Bloom, Prima flowers!

Flowers by Kay!

Staz On, Templates, Scrap FX (selected items), Bazzill - chips and books, Tim Holtz masks, Cardstock embellishments, Cling mounted stamps!

ALL paper kits marked down!!

ONLY WHILE STOCKS LAST SO GET IT QUICK!!

January Mid Month Motivation

2010-01-20T22:36:00.001+13:00

Hi again :)

After celebrating such a wonderful weekend at Scrapfest 2010 I thought it would be a good idea to focus on the theme of ‘Friends’ for this month’s motivation.

I’ve been inspired by all the creativity over the weekend and created a layout to celebrate some of my wonderful scrapbooking friends:

So if you’re looking for a little motivation this month why not create a layout, mini album or project dedicated to your friends!

Happy Scrapping – Shell xx

We’re finally back!

2010-01-20T19:00:00.001+13:00

I know it's been a LONG time... and there is a lot of catching up to do... but for now I'm trialling using Word to do my blogging so I'll keep it short. Is anyone else using Word to blog with?

Firstly I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and New Year enjoying time with family and friends. Our household was very busy with all the preparations for Scrapfest 2010. And speaking of Scrapfest... what a FABULOUS weekend of scrapping, friends and fun! I'll share pictures as soon as I can.

In the meantime you might like to check out the shop because there's lots of NEW goodies plus I've learnt that the website has a SPECIALS button J

Winners Announced!

2009-10-03T21:17:00.019+13:00

Well it's been a seriously busy day for everyone making cards... and there are some fantastic cards in our gallery!

Challenge #1 - Layers

Challenge #2 - Stencils & Masks

Challenge #3 - Stickers, Rub ons & Peelcraft

Challenge #4 - Shape

Challenge #5 - Flowers

Challenge # 6 Glitz, Sparkle & Shine

And now onto the PRIZES!!! :)
Ok - I'm on the random number generator... and each card has a number (from 1 to 38) I've given the numbers in the order they were uploaded (thought that would be easiest)

We'll do the spot prizes first:

Prize #1 - Jenny (for finishing the 6 challenges first)

Prize #2 - Number 3 - Tricia (challenge #1)

Prize #3 - Number 36 - Anna (challenge #5)

Prize #4 - Number 7 - Jenny (challenge #4)

Prize #5 - Number 28 - Esther (challenge #3)

Prize #6 - Number 9 - Lianne (challenge #2)

Well done ladies!!

And now for the MAJOR prize winner!!!

Number 20 - AMANDA (challenge #4)

Congratulations Amanda :)

PLUS... I am so impressed with all the entries that EVERYONE will also receive a packet of One Colour Collection flowers from me... just because I can LOL

Thanks everyone for your fantastic efforts!!

World Cardmaking Day - Challenge #6

2009-10-03T16:02:00.002+13:00

Ok... it's time for the final challenge - but it's a good one!

The theme this time is GLITZ, SPARKLE and SHINE!

For this challenge you need to get out the glitter, kindy glitz, embossing powders, shiny embellishments etc in fact anything at all that will add a bit of sparkle to your card!

Here's my sample: Unfortunately 'sparkle' doesn't always photograph that well... so long as we get 'some' sparkle I'll be pretty happy.

The silver background paper on my card is REALLY shiny... I also embossed the stamp with silver and added some silver ink around the stamped image. To finish it off I added some shiny star embellishments and added some kindy glitz to the wine bottle :)

Now it's time for you to get out all the glittery things that magpies love! Remember to upload as "Challenge #6 - your name"

You have until 8pm tonight to get the challenges done and uploaded into the gallery and then I'll be announcing the winners (including the spot prizes) at 8.30pm

World Cardmaking Day - Challenge #5

2009-10-03T15:08:00.000+13:00

This time the challenge is to use FLOWERS!

You need to use at least 1 flower on your card... it could be a sticker, rub on, stamp, embellishment... anything you like :)

Here's my sample card:
I kept it all pretty simple really... the stamp actually includes a flower but I wanted something 'a little more' so I added a flower embellishment over the top.

Now it's your turn... and remember to upload as "Challenge #5 - your name" when you put your card in the gallery :)

World Cardmaking Day - Challenge #4

2009-10-03T14:28:00.002+13:00

Hopefully you're all enjoying these cardmaking challenges

Challenge #4 is all about SHAPE!

Most of the cards available to buy are rectangular... and it seems that it's a shape we're pretty comfortable making. So this time the challenge is to make a card that is NOT rectangular... any shape will do - circular, triangular, square etc

Here's my sample card:
I've been wanting to make a square card for ages... what's stopped me?? Lack of envelopes in this shape (and the cost of the ones I can get!) So don't worry about the envelope and just create a card that's not a rectangle

Remember to upload as "Challenge #4 - your name"

World Cardmaking Day - Challenge #3

2009-10-03T13:53:00.002+13:00

Time for the next challenge

This time it's all about STICKERS, RUB ONS & PEEL CRAFT!

How many times have you bought these items... used 1 or 2 of them and then stuck the rest in drawers??? Now it's time to get them out and use them for this challenge! You only have to use 1 item to qualify for the challenge too!

Here's my card:
I bought these stickers ages ago (probably a couple of years ) intending to make a 'Girl Talk' mini album. Well that just didn't happen so I've opened them up and used a couple of them on this card!

I wanted something bright and fun! Remember too that you can stick your stickers and rub-ons onto plain cardstock to give them a bit of a different look - that's what I did with the 'yak' stickers!

Happy sticking :)

World Cardmaking Day - Challenge #2

2009-10-03T12:48:00.005+13:00

For challenge #2 the theme is STENCILS and MASKS

Don't panic if you haven't got any commercially made ones because it's super easy to make your own! I'll show you what I used in a minute

Here's my sample card:
I cut the lizard image using the cricut - punches work REALLY well too! Then I used the outside part of the image and held it on my card while I inked the lizard design:
Once I was happy with how my lizard looked I used the actual cut out and placed it on top of the inked image and then I stamped the 'background':
I finished off with some stamped words and then added some crackle accents on the lizard to finish it off

Now it's your turn :)

Remember to upload your card into the gallery as "Challenge #2 - your name"

World Cardmaking Day - Challenge #1

2009-10-03T10:19:00.000+13:00

Welcome to our first challenge for World Cardmaking Day

Challenge #1 is all about LAYERS!

Create a card that has at least 3 layers. You might decide to back an embellishment with a cardstock mat... or layer papers together... or create layers using foam dots etc.

The theme is completely over to you!

For my sample card I made a Christmas card for a special friend:

Steps for my card:

I began with my 1st layer of card and stamped text over it.

Then I ripped some patterned paper and inked it and layerd that onto the background.

Next I cut a small piece of text paper and layers that to create a 'ribbon' along the bottom of the card.

Then I matted the Santa image with cardstock and adhered that to the card front.

I then added the pointsettia flower and popped the "25 Dec" up on foam dots in the center.

I finished it off with some rub ons (Merry Christmas and the holly leaves)

When you upload your cards into the gallery please label them "Challenge #1 - your name" and remember that each time you enter a challenge you get a ticket in the draw for the prize pack (and you might even win the challenge spot prize!)

Happy Layering!

Challenges and Competitions!

2009-10-02T08:41:00.001+13:00

Well the first of the month has arrived which means our September challenge winner has been announced! Congratulations to Gail for this gorgeous layout! Esther chose Gail's layout because she said "it was a breath of fresh air and she loved the clean lines"
We've got a prize pack ready to head your way Gail :) To see the rest of the entries into this months challenge visit our online gallery.

I'm organising the October challenge. October is Breast Cancer Awareness month so I've picked PINK for this months challenge.

Now before you say... "but I've only got boys"... all you need to do is include something pink on your layout! There might be some pink in your photo... or you could use some pink cardstock or patterned paper... or pink embellishments... or even just 1 pink button LOL etc.

I'm not worried about there being a certain % of pink... I can never figure things like that out LOL

I've got a layout all 'planned' but haven't actually got it done yet so right now it's completely up to you!

I hope you'll all join in on this months challenge... and if you win you're guaranteed that there will be something pink in the prize pack!!

We've also got some great challenges planned for World Cardmaking Day tomorrow!!

Just in case you didn't know... it's World Cardmaking Day on Saturday 3rd October. To celebrate the event I'm going to be running some cardmaking challenges throughout the day - 6 in total!

Here's how it's going to work:

1. There will be 6 different challenges posted throughout the day - I'm aiming for a 10am start so keep checking back for the details of each challenge

2. The idea is to use what you already have... there won't be any 'product' challenges... so it's a great way to use up some of your stash (and don't forget about your 'scraps' box/folder etc)

3. The entries need to be uploaded into the gallery by 8pm on Saturday night.

4. Each entry gains you a ticket - 1 entry per challenge - so you have a chance to gain 6 tickets

5. At 8.30pm I'll be announcing a major winner who will receive a small pizza box of goodies :)

There's also going to be spot prizes for each and every challenge so that's another 6 chances to win!

Check out all the details HERE!

Happy Scrapping xx

Buzz & Bloom Competition!! $250 prize pack :)

2009-09-28T19:45:00.000+13:00

Buzz & Bloom are really in the mood to celebrate and they're running a great competition!

They're looking for the best project created using a Buzz & Bloom tabbed mini album kit... and what's up for grabs?? A prize pack worth $250!!! That's a tonne of product!!

So what do you have to do?? Simply create your project using a Buzz & Bloom tabbed book kit (available in our shop), take your photos and then upload it into the Buzz & Bloom Flicker page. For more information check out this post on the Buzz & Bloom blog!

Currently available in the shop we have 3 different tabbed mini book kits for sale... and starting today we're taking 20% off the RRP! Now available for just $12!!!

Unicorn:

Hearts:

Circles

To give you an idea here's one I made using the circle tab kit:

And if you're looking for even more ideas the current Buzz & Bloom design team are putting up their ideas on the Buzz & Bloom blog... there's some GREAT ideas to use!

Why not give it a go!!!

Buzz & Bloom Design Team 2010

2009-09-24T06:35:00.000+12:00

I received an email from Buzz & Bloom announcing their Design Team call for 2010... exciting stuff!

We are looking for a fresh crop of designers to be on our design team for the upcoming new year.

If you think you've got what it takes, and you're interested in applying here's what to do:

Email us the following information:

Your name, email address, phone number and address.
A link to your blog and/or on-line gallery.
Previous or current design team / teaching experience.
Information on any published work.
Please also include a little bit about yourself and your life, as well as detailing your experience with scrapbooking, your style, favorite products or techniques, and give us a good idea of who you are and what kind of artist you are.

Along with this email, please attach images of four of your best or favorite layouts or projects.

Write a sample blog post for two of the four layouts.Your job as a member of our Design Team will be as much about writing posts on our blog as it will be about designing projects with our products. We want to see how you present your projects in writing. Each sample post should include details of techniques used, products used and should also give us a glimpse of your personality.

The use of our products is not a requirement.
We will accept submissions which include off the page projects, however we have a limit of one per application.

Successful applicants will be required to submit:
3 projects per month, including drafting of blog posts for each project & occasional additional artwork for catalogs, trade shows and new product releases

You will receive product packs in the mail every two months.

Email your application to dt@buzzandbloom.com with subject "2010 DT Application". Applications close 31st October.

Looking forward to seeing some amazing talents!!

This Design Team call is open to anyone, in any country.

Why not give this a go?? The people at Buzz & Bloom are super friendly and great to work with!!

September Mid Month Motivation

2009-09-17T16:32:00.000+12:00

Each month we do a mid-month motivation... something just to have a go at. Sometimes it's a sketch, sometimes a card challenge but this month we've got something a little different.

When I was writing about the Tim Holtz masks on the Scrapbook Dreams blog I was thinking about the fact that I really don't use paint on my layouts very much and I realised that as scrappers we all have our 'favourite' things we do over and over... but what have you never tried?? Have you ever bought products thinking you want to give something a go... and then just never actually gotten around to it???

Here's a couple of examples - After being quite 'anti' paint on my layouts I gave it a go and came up with this:
I really wanted to try creating a canvas and the opportunity came up to do a class. I ended up creating this for my BIL and he still has it on the wall:
I learnt lots of new techniques making the canvas and went on to make a few more :)

Just recently I was talking to Esther on the phone and she was busy multi-tasking (as you do). She had a stamp out and had inked it up... then the next minute she went "Bother" (or something fairly similar LOL)... she had accidently inked it with the 'wrong' ink pad But here's the result:
She's been busy ever since doing multi-coloured stamped images!!!

So here's the motivation... try something you've been wanting to do... or have never done! It can be a technique, project, something you've bought and never used... it's completely up to you!... so go and 'play' and show us the results!

When I got home from work tonight there was a fabulous canvas Sherryn had made in the gallery! So why not give it a go and see what you can come up with??

Shell xx

Product Spotlight - Tim Holtz masks

2009-09-15T07:19:00.001+12:00

Everyone that knows me knows that I'm a fan of Tim Holtz! I'm not so much into the fact that his name is on his products... it's more a case of I know that they're really good products :)

I'm completely into the Distress Inks - in fact I find it really difficult to complete any crafting project without adding a bit of Distress Ink!!

More recently I've discovered how good his masks are! I've tried other masks and they just haven't done the job... but these beauties are FANTASTIC!

My sister recently gave me a Tim Holtz mask (Flourish) as a gift and here's a layout I created with it:
This layout was super easy! Here's the steps I used:

Take a piece of plain cardstock (I used black)
Place Tim Holtz mask in position... it sticks to the paper perfectly but is completely removable without any damage to your paper!
Get some paint (I used white) and smear it over the mask with a paper towel... the best part is that there's NO clean up! When you're happy with the design just let it dry a bit and throw your paper towel in the bin :)
Then I scrunched up a bit of bubble wrap and dabbed it in some more white paint and 'stamped' it around the edges.
Next I added my photos, journaling and title - super easy and really effective!

We've got three of Tim's masks available in our online shop - (L to R) Borderline, Timeworks & Flourish.

If you'd like to see more about using these masks you can watch this video Tim Holtz created... there's LOADS of tips in it!

Happy crafting - Shell xx

Christmas Card Swap

2009-09-11T21:46:00.000+12:00

Christmas is fast approaching… or so my girls keep telling me! We thought it might be fun to have a Christmas Card swap.

All the details are on the forum, but basically you make 6 Christmas cards and send them in to me by Monday 12th October and then I’ll send you back 6 made by other participants.

Here’s a couple I made recently to give you a few ideas:

If you haven't joined the forum yet it's a quick and easy process! We have a great community of friendly scrappers who are always there to offer support, advice and lots of fun :)

September Sketch Challenge

2009-09-09T17:09:00.000+12:00

Well the time has come to make a change so I've moved the Scrapbook Dreams blog over to blogspot and hopefully now I'll update a bit more regularly!

Esther designed our September challenge and she's provided us with this great sketch! I love the fact that it's a multi-photo layout without seeming cluttered at all :)
Esther also provided a sample layout that she created. This gorgeous layout celebrates the arrival of spring!
I love the soft colours and the way she's incorporated multi-coloured stamped images in place of some of the photos!

I even managed to get a layout done myself! Krystal had her first school ball earlier this term and I wanted to capture the memory... and with the multi-photo sketch it seemed perfect so here's what I came up with:
If you'd like to enter the challenge and be eligible for a fantastic embellishment prize pack then all you have to do is create a layout based on the sketch and upload it into the gallery by Midnight 30th September.

Shell xx