CM Easter Blog Hop

Hello & Welcome!!

You have reached the 7th stop on the CM Easter Blog Hop.   My fellow CM Advisors and I are sharing ideas and inspiration for your Easter and spring layouts and projects from Creative Memories.  If you’re hopping in order you’ve arrived from Diana’s blog and at the end of my post I’ll send you on your way to Fran’s blog.  Be sure to visit each stop and finish up on the CM Blog to see all the wonderful ideas.  If you leave a comment on the CM Blog you’ll be eligible to win a fantastic prize bundle! (More info, including the complete list of Blog Hop stops, is at the bottom of this post.)

My layout features items from the Fresh Picks product line.  This is such a beautiful collection!! The colors are dreamy – and just perfect for spring and Easter.
I love the colors in this layout and am a bit embarrassed to share it because it came together so quickly thanks to the wonderful coordinating products and time-saving tools from Creative Memories.  For the background I used two pieces of patterned paper from the Fresh Picks paper pack and cut each in half lengthwise. I split the patterns apart (even though it looks like there is a whole sheet in the middle) and adhered a pre-designed border on top to join the two patterns together.  Many of the CM paper packs include sheets of pre-designed borders and accent artwork  – including Fresh Picks. These are so beautiful and easy to use! I used the green border that is third from the top shown below.

Left Side Layout
The piece with the banner under the cross (see below for details on how to make this cross) is also pre-designed artwork. I am going to use it as a spot for my journaling.  I used pieces from the Fresh Picks Slide-In pack for mats for my photos.  I think that I’ll use black & white photos for this layout.  I think the colors in the Fresh Pick products will compliment B&W photos beautifully!!
This sheet of artwork is included in the Fresh Picks paper pack. (This set features 12 sheets of double-sided paper, including 2 sheets of pre-designed border strips and 2 sheets of pre-designed accent artwork plus tone-on-tone and designer artwork that's simply stunning!)

Right Side Layout
Again I used pieces from the Fresh Picks Slide-In pack and paper pack and added a title using the Watercolor Green ABC/123 stickers.

Diamond Scroll Cross

Use the Border Maker System with the Diamond Scroll Cartridge  and punch 5 times.  You can make a whole border if you like or use the punch on it’s own (without using the paper guide first) – you’ll just need the inside part of the punched design and it’s not necessary to make sure the punches are aligned.  Cut out the inside design from the diamond scroll punches as shown above and adhere these pieces to white cardstock*using the Mini Tape Runner adhesive to tack down those small spots.  Add a 1/2 pearl from the Fall In Embellishment pack (they come with adhesive on them – super easy to use!) to the center of the cross to complete the design.

Using the Custom Cutting System and the Oval Patterns, cut around the cross and additional ovals for mats. Layer, adhere & that’s it!  In just a few minutes from start to finish you have a 2-page layout!

After I get my photos on the page I may add an embellishment or two from the coordinating Fresh Picks Embellishments pack.  I just love those butterflies and think those may find a home on this layout – maybe with a flower or two!

* Did you hear the good news?  CM has found a domestic milled cardstock supplier, so the solid cardstock we know and love will once again be a part of the CM core line!  You can now find a few colors in the core line of products and new colors will be added as they become available!!!!!

Thanks for stopping by!  I will send you on your way to Fran’s blog which is the next stop on the CM Easter Blog Hop.
 
Here is the complete line up for today’s Blog Hop:

CM Easter Blog Hop
Noreen Smith
Sarah Fitzgerald
Candace Bouldin
Julie Tambrini
Diana Miller Brinsley
Stefani Jones
Lisa Brown Graham <-----You are here!
Fran Allen Smitherman
CM Blog <--- Leave a comment to win a wonderful Fresh Picks prize bundle!!

Please contact your Creative Memories Advisor to purchase the Fresh Picks collection or any other Creative Memories products.
If you don't already have a Creative Memories Advisor, I’m happy to help! 

You can find more information about the Creative Memories products used in this project on my CM Advisor site at 
http://www.creativememories.com/user/lisagraham
or if you’d like to contact me directly you can do that by clicking on the “Email me” link at the top of this page.

Wishing you a Blessed Easter!!

New Kiwi Lane Templates & Paper!

 

New products are now available from Kiwi Lane!! These new items are only available now through Kiwi Lane Instructors.  You can find these in the "New Release" category on my Instructor site.

Enjoy the Ride Paper Kit

Hope Accessory Set

McKay Blvd Border Set

 

Win a HOPE Accessory Set!!

The Hope Accessory Set is perfect for when the stork makes that most special delivery to you or someone you know. Want to win a FREE Hope Accessory Set of your own? Head over to the Kiwi Lane Facebook Page and leave a comment in this post about which Hope Template Number (1-5) you think will be your favorite to use once you have your own Hope Accessory Set.  The winner will be announced later this evening on the Kiwi Lane Designs Facebook page so make sure to comment now to be entered into win.

***If you live outside the U.S. you will be issued a Kiwi Lane Gift Card Credit instead of receiving the physical prize.***

See more samples featuring the Hope set on the Kiwi Lane Blog.

Don’t forget:  Kiwi Lane shipping is FREE when you order $35 or more and only $5 for orders under $35!  Also the Feb. specials are Clara Lane & Sweetheart!

Kiwi Lane–Follow Your Dreams

I’m so happy to share the link to my Kiwi Lane Instructor website!!  It’s still under construction – more bells & whistles are being added but it’s off to a great start!!  You can click on “Become an Instructor” to learn more about “playing for a living” and view videos of the options & starter kits.  If you click on “Shop” you’ll be able to view all the templates, paper packs & accessories that Kiwi Lane offers. 

Each month Kiwi Lane has a special and for the month of February you will save 15% on Clara Lane and Sweetheart Designer Template sets!

Remember:  Shipping is always FREE with your order of $35 or more!!

Here is a fun layout made with these templates and a few others:

Here are the Kiwi Lane Templates used to make this fun layout:  
Borders
Clara Lane (On sale this month!!)
12” Strips
Accessories
Sweetheart (On sale this month!)
Rings
Elements
Tiny Accessories
Tiny Sweeheart
Tiny Accents
Photo Sets
Photos

Visit the Kiwi Lane Blog for full instructions for this layout and some great scrapbooking tips including how to make this adorable heart arrow.

I hope you’ll stop by my Facebook page where I’ll post Kiwi Lane updates & specials! You can find that here: Lisa’s Kiwi Lane Workshop.

CM Valentine Blog Hop

You have reached the fifth stop on the Creative Memories Valentine Blog Hop.   My fellow CM Advisors and I are sharing some ideas and inspiration featuring the new Watercolor Love collection! 

If you’re hopping in order you’ve arrived from Diana’s blog and at the end of my post I’ll send you on your way to Fran’s blog.  Be sure to visit each blog and finish up on the CM blog where, if you leave a comment, you’ll be eligible to win a fantastic prize bundle! (More info including the complete list of Blog Hop stops is at the bottom of this post.)

Watercolor Love – new this month!

 

Being the Mom of 2 boys I don’t get too many opportunities to use feminine papers in my scrapbooks.  Blues, greens, browns – my pages overrunneth with those colors but pink – not so much.  

That is about to change!  This collection is obviously great for weddings and Valentine’s/Love themed pages but I have plans for all sorts of layouts using these fun papers.  I can see using these gorgeous patterns with photos of our garden, summer fun and lots of family photos.  I have many favorites that aren’t part of a specific event but ones I still want to include in our albums.  Like this one:

Items used for this layout:
Fall In Paper Pack (background wood grained paper – love this!!)
Watercolor Love Paper Pack – Paterned Paper
Shades of Red Designer Cardstock  – dark red used for all mats and tiny hearts on envelopes
Shape Maker System & Square Cartridge –envelopes
Border Maker System & Heart Chain Cartridge -hearts on envelopes
ABC/123 Black Stickers  - Title
12” Trimmer
7” Personal Trimmer
All Purpose Scissors
Regular & Mini Tape Runner

To make the mini envelopes: punch a square using the Shape Maker System and Square Cartridge.  Fold 3 of the corners to the center and tack down with a little adhesive from your Tape Runner.  Add a “leftover” heart punched with the Border Maker System and the Heart Chain Cartridge.  Adhere this tiny heart with your Mini Tape Runner.

To help the Watercolor Love papers stand out from the background I matted them with solid cardstock and also fussy cut the bottom of both layers with my All Purpose Scissors (so glad they’re back!!)

Thanks for stopping by!  Here is the complete line up for today’s Blog Hop:

CM Valentine Blog Hop
Sarah Fitzgerald
Candace Bouldin
Julie Tambrini
Diana Miller Brinsley
Lisa Brown Graham <-----You are here!
Fran Allen Smitherman
Noreen Smith
CM Blog <--- Leave a comment to win the wonderful prize bundle shown below!!

Please contact your Creative Memories Advisor to purchase the Watercolor Love collection or any other CM products.
If you don't already have a Creative Memories Advisor, I’m happy to help! 

You can find more information about the Creative Memories products used in this project on my CM Advisor site at 
http://www.creativememories.com/user/lisagraham
or if you’d like to contact me directly you can do that by clicking on the “Email me” link at the top of this page.

Happy Valentine’s Day!!

Customizing your Fun Stampers Journey Kit

FSJ has 3 kits to choose from – you can see all 3 options here. The biggest kit, the Blooming Grand kit, is only $99 in January!!!

This fantastic deal on the Blooming Grand Kit (even better than the usual discount) comes with a really nice option.  You can customize the contents of your Blooming Grand Kit!

There are so many fun products to choose from!  If you’d like to team up with me and customize your Blooming Grand Kit (or just take a peek at the options on-line) you can get started here.  Below are some screen shots to, hopefully, help make those decisions easier!

You can visit my FSJ site to get a closer look at all the products.

Many of these stamp sets have coordinating die sets that you can choose to include in your kit!

LOTS of ink colors to choose from!  Choose any 3 True Color Fusion Ink Pads.

And a bonus – purchase some great supplies while earning commission (including an extra 10%!)  and contributing to your (very doable $150 quartely) sales quota! You can purchase as many of these add-on packs as you like.

Something to keep in mind:  you may submit a Fast Start order within 45 days of joining as a Journey Coach. Your entire Fast Start order will be earn a 30% discount (instead of 20%) on the first order you place that is $150 or more, within 45 days of joining! And, if you enter it as a party you can double dip and get hostess benefits (and Bloom Benefits) too! 

It’s never been a better time to become a FSJ Coach! 

You can find more info about FSJ in these blog posts or by visiting my FSJ site. 

CM Year to Remember Blog Hop

Happy 2016!

You have reached the fifth stop on the CM Year to Remember Blog Hop.   My fellow CM Advisors and I are sharing some ideas and inspiration featuring the new Year to Remember collection designed to make recording and remember the year a breeze!  If you’re hopping in order you’ve arrived from Stefani’s blog and at the end of my post I’ll send you on your way to Noreen’s blog.  Be sure to visit each blog and finish up on the CM Blog.  If you leave a comment you’ll be eligible to win a fantastic prize bundle! (More info, including the complete list of Blog Hop stops, is at the bottom of this post.)

As usual, Creative Memories has come up with a fun way to help us save our memories while also saving us time!  Each piece of CM printed paper is double sided and in the Year to Remember collection the pages with a calendar grid on one side have a fun pattern on the other!
This is one of those paper packs that I buy two at a time – because I can’t decide which side to use!  (Who am I kidding – I’m like that with all the CM paper packs!)

Perpetual Year to Remember Journal/Calendar 
I have seen a few projects like this and always thought I’d make a version “one day.”  When I saw the new Year to Remember items by Creative Memories I knew they were perfect for this!

The idea for this project is to record a brief note each day on an index card and then move that day’s card to the back, and then do the same for the next day.  Then repeat, repeat, repeat throughout the years.  I think this will be a really fun way to look back at some of the happenings that might not make it in to our scrapbooks but I still want to remember.

That cute ceramic berry basket that holds the cards was bought at Kohl’s a bit ago.  I don’t know if they still have it in the stores but you can find it online.  You could use any type of container you want for this project. A simple cardboard box could be fancied up with patterned paper and then everything would coordinate.  I think it would be easiest to find something that the index cards fit in but if you find, like I did, that the cards need trimming, that doesn’t take too long.  I trimmed a bit from 4x6 index cards but, again, you could use whatever size you like.

Using a date stamp I added each day of the year (don’t forgeth February 29th!) to an index card. If you don’t have a date stamp you could print the dates off on your computer and then cut them out & adhere to the cards, or you could handwrite the dates. 

I’m adding birthdays, anniversarys, holidays & other special days to the cards and a sticker, too.
(The date stamp I used is similar to this one.  If you go this route be sure that your stamp has a blank option for the year.  If not you could stamp at the edge of your index card with scrap paper underneath, making sure the year stamps off the index card onto the scrap paper.)

You could also use stickers from the Monthly Sticker Pack when it’s released. So many fun options!!

For the monthly dividers I added some paper from the Year to Remember paper pack to one of the index cards I trimmed and added coordinating embellishments and stickers, keeping the same basic design for each one.

 
(July – Dec. embellishments will be released this summer.)

The die-cut shapes with the months printed on them make perfect tabs for the dividers.  I staggered them so they will be easier to see.

I used the Shape Maker System with the Square Cartridge to create a backround for the square stickers and numbered embellshment,  giving it a little lift with Foam Squares (now a permanent addition to the CM product line!!!)

What could you do with the Year to Remember collection?
Be sure to leave a comment on the Creative Memories Blog about how you’d use these products and you’ll be eligible to win the whole collection!!
Thank you, Creative Memories!

Thank you for stopping by today!  Your next stop is Noreen’s blog.  Be sure to visit all the stops on today’s Blog Hop.

Here is the lineup in case you lose your way (it’s easy to do with all of those wonderful ideas!)

CM Year to Remember Blog Hop
Candace Bouldin
Julie Tambrini
Diana Miller Brinsley
Stefani Jones
Lisa Brown Graham <-----You are here!
Noreen Smith
Sarah Fitzgerald
CM Blog <--- Leave a comment to win a prize!!

Please contact your Creative Memories Advisor to purchase the Year to Remember collection or any other CM products.
If you don't already have a Creative Memories Advisor, I’m happy to help! 

You can find more information about the Creative Memories products used in this project on my CM Advisor site at 
http://www.creativememories.com/user/lisagraham  
or if you’d like to contact me directly you can do that by clicking on the “Email me” link at the top of this page.

How would you like to get a discount on all CM products?  15 years ago (this month!) I joined CM to do just that and I’ve not only enjoyed that benefit (immensly!!)  but I’ve gotten so much more…simply because I’ve shared something I love  
It’s never been a better time to team up with CM and become an Advisor.  For only $49 a year you’ll earn profit on all product bought/sold AND be a part of a fantastic company with wonderful products and support! 
PLUS you will get this exclusive punch when you join this month! You’ll find more info in this blog post.

I hope you enjoyed this CM Blog Hop! If you missed any of the earlier CM Blog Hops you can find them by clicking on “Blog Hop” in the labels section of my blog on the right side of the page!